College Certificate - Veterinary Assistant (0633)

This one-year, hands-on program focuses on the skills required for careers involving animal care. Students spend a significant portion of the program working directly with animals. They develop safe handling skills and learn to perform physical examinations and treatments. Students also operate St. Lawrence College’s “Scruffy Dog Salon,” where they groom dogs under the supervision of experienced groomers. Laboratory sessions cover surgical support techniques and basic clinical procedures that assist with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in domestic animals.

The program is structured around four areas: animal diseases, care, restraint and grooming; laboratory and surgical support preparation and maintenance; front-office management and marketing; and support studies.

Students learn about animal health and disease, behaviour, handling, and general care involving cats, dogs, exotic pets, wildlife, and livestock. The curriculum also covers dog grooming and basic laboratory procedures. In addition, students study computer operations and office procedures while developing practical communication and marketing techniques.

The skills acquired through the program prepare graduates to help increase the quality and scope of services provided to animals and their owners in animal care workplaces.