2 answers
Sammie
Student
Dalton, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
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I'm interested in being a Veterinary Assistants. What science classes should I take?
I'm a junior and I like helping people and animals
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2 answers
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
62
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
If you love animals and want to work closely with them in a medical setting, being a veterinary assistant is a great choice. As a junior, it's good to focus on science classes that help you learn about animals, the body, and basic medical ideas. Biology is the most important, especially if your school offers advanced or AP biology. It covers cells, genetics, and body systems, which are very useful in vet clinics. If you can take anatomy and physiology, that's also a great option because it explains how bodies work, which is important for animal care.
Chemistry is another helpful class. It might not seem directly related, but it helps you understand medications, lab tests, and how substances interact in the body. If your school offers animal science, agriculture, or veterinary electives, these are perfect for this career. They give you hands-on experience with animals and show colleges or employers that you're serious about working with them.
Besides classes, gaining experience is very important for veterinary assistants. Volunteering at animal shelters, working with rescues, pet sitting, or shadowing at a vet clinic can really help and let you see if this is the right path for you. Right now, aim to build a strong science background while getting as much animal-related experience as possible. This combination will prepare you well for vet assistant programs after high school.
Chemistry is another helpful class. It might not seem directly related, but it helps you understand medications, lab tests, and how substances interact in the body. If your school offers animal science, agriculture, or veterinary electives, these are perfect for this career. They give you hands-on experience with animals and show colleges or employers that you're serious about working with them.
Besides classes, gaining experience is very important for veterinary assistants. Volunteering at animal shelters, working with rescues, pet sitting, or shadowing at a vet clinic can really help and let you see if this is the right path for you. Right now, aim to build a strong science background while getting as much animal-related experience as possible. This combination will prepare you well for vet assistant programs after high school.
Thank you!
Sammie
Franny Buzimkich
Executive Concierge
23
Answers
Wolcott, Connecticut
Updated
Franny’s Answer
Hi Sammie,
If you're aiming to become a Veterinary Assistant, taking the right science classes can give you a strong foundation and make you more prepared for the role. Here are some science classes you might consider:
Biology: Understanding the basic principles of living organisms, including animals, is crucial. Courses in general biology and animal biology would be especially relevant.
Anatomy and Physiology: These classes help you learn about the structure and function of the animal body, which is vital for assisting with care, treatments, and recognizing health issues.
Chemistry: Basic chemistry knowledge is useful for understanding medications, fluids, and lab tests commonly used in veterinary settings.
Microbiology: This can help you understand infectious diseases, bacteria, viruses, and hygiene practices important in animal care.
Nutrition: Learning about animal nutrition can be beneficial, as diet is key in maintaining and improving animal health.
Animal Science/Zoology: If your school offers these, they focus specifically on animals and can be very helpful for veterinary work.
Additionally, courses or certificates in animal care or veterinary assisting (if available) are highly valuable.
Overall, a combination of biology, anatomy, and chemistry would be a solid core, and supplementing with specialized animal science classes will prepare you well for a veterinary assistant role.
If you're aiming to become a Veterinary Assistant, taking the right science classes can give you a strong foundation and make you more prepared for the role. Here are some science classes you might consider:
Biology: Understanding the basic principles of living organisms, including animals, is crucial. Courses in general biology and animal biology would be especially relevant.
Anatomy and Physiology: These classes help you learn about the structure and function of the animal body, which is vital for assisting with care, treatments, and recognizing health issues.
Chemistry: Basic chemistry knowledge is useful for understanding medications, fluids, and lab tests commonly used in veterinary settings.
Microbiology: This can help you understand infectious diseases, bacteria, viruses, and hygiene practices important in animal care.
Nutrition: Learning about animal nutrition can be beneficial, as diet is key in maintaining and improving animal health.
Animal Science/Zoology: If your school offers these, they focus specifically on animals and can be very helpful for veterinary work.
Additionally, courses or certificates in animal care or veterinary assisting (if available) are highly valuable.
Overall, a combination of biology, anatomy, and chemistry would be a solid core, and supplementing with specialized animal science classes will prepare you well for a veterinary assistant role.