July 28, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’re passionate about animals and looking for a fast-track entry into veterinary care, you might be exploring the role of a veterinary technician assistant. It’s a title that often overlaps with “veterinary assistant,” but what does it mean? Is it different from a vet assistant? And what kind of education do you need to get started? In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what a veterinary technician assistant is, what they do, and how the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College can help you enter this field with confidence, skills, and certification. 

What Is a Veterinary Technician Assistant? 

A veterinary technician assistant is a trained, hands-on professional who works closely with veterinarians and veterinary technicians to ensure the smooth operation of animal care facilities. They play a key role in providing both clinical and administrative support, helping to maintain the health and comfort of animal patients while also assisting with the day-to-day logistics of running a veterinary clinic. 
 

While the title “veterinary technician assistant” may vary slightly depending on the region or employer, it is most used interchangeably with “veterinary assistant” in Canada. In fact, many job postings and clinics use the two titles to describe the same role one focused on supporting veterinary teams through a mix of animal handling, treatment assistance, cleaning, reception, and client service tasks. They are often the first and last point of contact for pet owners during a clinic visit, making compassion, communication, and professionalism essential traits. 
 

Although this role doesn’t require a license or registration, most employers strongly prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program. A comprehensive diploma like the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College provides essential knowledge in animal anatomy, clinical care, communication, safety protocols, and veterinary office procedures, along with practical experience through a clinic-based practicum. 

Key Responsibilities of Veterinary Technician Assistant 

Veterinary technician assistants are involved in a wide range of duties: 
 

Clinical Tasks: 
 

• Restraining animals during exams and procedures 
• Cleaning and disinfecting surgical tools and exam rooms 
• Monitoring animal behaviour and vital signs 
• Assisting with wound care and post-operative monitoring 
• Feeding, grooming, and exercising animals 
   

Laboratory and Technical Support: 
 

• Collecting and preparing samples for testing 
• Assisting with diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasound) 
• Handling and disposing of biohazardous materials 
   

Administrative Duties: 
 

• Booking appointments and processing payments 
• Updating patient records 
• Communicating care instructions to pet owners 
• Supporting grief counselling in emotionally sensitive situations 

Veterinary Assistant vs. Veterinary Technician Assistant 

While both terms are often used interchangeably, in some settings the title “veterinary technician assistant” may imply a support role specifically under the supervision of licensed veterinary technicians. However, in Canada, the job duties and training are largely the same for both. The key distinctions usually lie between:  
 

• Veterinary Assistant / Vet Tech Assistant: Entry-level, non-licensed support staff 
• Veterinary Technician: Licensed professional with a 2+ year accredited diploma and VTNE certification

CDI College’s Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma prepares students for the assistant role whether listed as “vet assistant” or “vet technician assistant” on job boards. 

What Education Do You Need? 

To work as a veterinary technician assistant in Canada, most employers expect applicants to have:  
 

• A high school diploma or GED  
• Formal training through a diploma program  
• Basic certifications in workplace and pet first aid 

The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College is a 40-week program that includes:  
 

• Animal anatomy and physiology  
• Surgical prep and diagnostic imaging  
• Veterinary medical terminology  
• Animal behaviour and nutrition  
• Office reception and client communication  
• Pharmacology and clinical care 
   

You’ll also complete a 120-hour practicum in a real veterinary setting, gaining hands-on experience that sets you apart in the job market. 
 

Certifications Included: 
 

• WHMIS 2015 (Workplace Hazardous Materials) 
• Standard First Aid with CPR-C and AED 
• DOGSAFE® Canine First Aid 
   

These certifications show employers that you’re trained to work safely and professionally in a veterinary clinic. 

Where Can You Work? 

As a veterinary technician assistant, you can find employment in:  
 

• Private veterinary clinics and hospitals  
• Emergency or specialty animal care centres  
• Animal shelters and humane societies  
• Pet grooming, daycare, or boarding facilities  
• Zoos or wildlife rehab centres 

With experience, many vet assistant graduates go on to become veterinary technicians or specialize in areas like surgery, dental care, or animal behaviour. 

Final Thoughts 

So, what is a veterinary technician assistant? It’s a skilled, caring professional who plays a vital role in animal health care, often performing the same duties as a veterinary assistant. If you’re ready to get started in this field, the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College gives you everything you need: expert instruction, real-world experience, and career support. In less than a year, you could be working with animals every day in a career that truly makes a difference. Contact CDI College to learn how to begin your journey today.