Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
Feed, water, and examine pets and other nonfarm animals for signs of illness, disease, or injury in laboratories and animal hospitals and clinics. Clean and disinfect cages and work areas, and sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment. May provide routine postoperative care, administer medication orally or topically, or prepare samples for laboratory examination under the supervision of veterinary or laboratory animal technologists or technicians, veterinarians, or scientists.
SOC: 31-9096.00
Common Job Titles
Animal Care Provider
Animal Caregiver
Certified Veterinary Assistant
Veterinarian Assistant (Vet Assistant)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform animal feeding, watering, and routine physical care procedures in veterinary clinics and laboratory settings, following established protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify signs of illness, disease, or injury in animals through systematic observation and monitoring, under veterinary supervision.
Developing
Hands-onOperate sterilization equipment including steam autoclaves and chemical sterilizers to clean and disinfect surgical instruments and laboratory equipment.
Developing
Hands-onPerform medication administration via oral and topical routes following veterinary instructions and dosage protocols.
Developing
Hands-onHandle biological specimens including blood, urine, and tissue samples using proper collection techniques and laboratory safety procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeApply animal restraint and handling techniques to ensure safety of animals, staff, and clients during examinations and procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeDiscuss animal care instructions and postoperative care procedures with pet owners in clinical settings, using clear and empathetic communication.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate veterinary medical records and documentation procedures using practice management software and maintaining accurate patient files.
Developing
Hands-onExecute cage cleaning and facility sanitation protocols maintaining hygienic work environments in animal hospitals and research facilities.
Developing
MindsetEngage with distressed animals and concerned pet owners demonstrating patience, empathy, and service-oriented care.
Developing
Hands-onOperate diagnostic equipment including microscopes, thermometers, and scales to assist veterinary technicians and veterinarians with patient assessment.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate time management and task prioritization skills when coordinating multiple animal care responsibilities in fast-paced clinical environments.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
114,190
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,160. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,320. 50th percentile: U.S. $37,320. 75th percentile: U.S. $44,550. 90th percentile: U.S. $48,150. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$29,160
10% of workers earn the following or more
$48,150
Workers on average earn
$38,990
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
English Language3.8/5
Biology3.6/5
Administrative3.5/5
Medicine and Dentistry3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
