An analogy may help. An AHT is similar to a combined human nurse/x-ray tech/lab tech. As an AHT you can
A VMA has more of a supporting role in a veterinary clinic. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be an integral part of the veterinary health care team.
Typically as a VMA you could assist one or all of a receptionist, AHT and veterinarian. For example you might assist an AHT and/or vets with:
- restraining an animal
- developing an x-ray
- preparing surgery packs
- maintaining equipment
- packaging samples for analysis
- exercising animals and cleaning kennels.
Depending on the practice, VMAs typically fill a receptionist role in a vet clinic and answer the phone, book appointments, record treatments, take payments, file, and do merchandising.
By regulation, a VMA isn’t permitted to perform technical duties such as monitoring anesthetics, analyzing samples, giving injections or placing intravenous catheters. These duties are only to be carried out by certified AHTs or veterinarians.
Whatever program you choose, you aren’t limited to working in veterinary clinics. Other career opportunities include:
- feedlots and other large livestock operations
- drug/food company representatives
- zoos
- research labs
- humane societies
- pet stores