Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a veterinary assistant? May 18-24, 2025, we recognize the essential role Veterinary Assistants play in supporting patient care and our hospital teams, and the hard work of those who have earned the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) designation. Taylor Woodruff from VCA Fairmount Animal Hospital shares her journey and insights into what it takes to excel in this rewarding career.

My journey into veterinary medicine began somewhat unexpectedly.
While I was in school, taking science classes with the aim of becoming an ultrasonographer, a friend of mine started working as a veterinary assistant at a local hospital. Her stories about the daily happenings piqued my interest. I have always loved animals, and the idea of working closely with them seemed far more appealing than my original plan. So, I decided to pivot my career path and pursue a role that combined my passion for animals with my interest in science.

In this role, you need to build trust with both clients and their pets.
As a veterinary assistant, my primary responsibility is to support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing the best possible care for our animal patients. This involves a wide range of tasks, from assisting during examinations and surgeries to educating pet owners about proper animal care. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is when clients leave the clinic feeling informed and confident about the care their pets are receiving. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them return because they trust us and know we have their pets' best interests at heart.

One of the most significant contributions we make as veterinary assistants is educating pet owners. Whether it's explaining a new treatment plan, discussing dietary needs or providing post-operative care instructions, our role is to ensure that pet owners have all the information they need to care for their animals properly.

In the field of veterinary medicine, learning never stops.
Every day presents new challenges and opportunities to learn from the doctors, technicians and even the animals we care for. We are constantly engaged in continuing education and training to stay updated with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine. This commitment to lifelong learning is essential for anyone considering a career as a veterinary assistant. You must be passionate about animals, willing to communicate effectively with your team and clients and have a big heart. It's not an easy job, but it is undoubtedly the most rewarding one I have ever had.

There are countless memorable moments in this profession.
One that stands out is when I helped a client with a very sick pet. The client had numerous questions and was understandably anxious. I took the time to explain everything thoroughly and provide the reassurance they needed. At the end of the appointment, the client expressed their gratitude, and it was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do. Moments like these make me proud of my role and reinforce the importance of compassion and communication in veterinary care.

Let's continue to make a positive impact on the lives of pets and their owners.
As we celebrate National Approved Veterinary Assistant Week, I encourage everyone to recognize the vital role that veterinary assistants play in animal healthcare. Our work is not just about assisting with medical procedures; it's about building relationships, educating pet owners and continuously striving to provide the best care possible. To all my fellow veterinary assistants, thank you for your dedication and hard work.

If you are passionate about animals and considering a career in veterinary medicine, I encourage you to explore the role of a veterinary assistant. It is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding profession that offers endless opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Join us in celebrating National Approved Veterinary Assistant Week and learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of animals and their owners

Learn more from National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) about becoming an approved veterinary assistant.