O*NET Career Intelligence

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

SOC 31-9096.00

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 post-operative 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.

Zone 3 Healthcare Support

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Active Listening

3.2

Monitoring

3.1

Service Orientation

3.1

Reading Comprehension

3.0

Speaking

3.0

Critical Thinking

3.0

Active Learning

3.0

Social Perceptiveness

3.0

Knowledge Areas 8

Customer and Personal Service

4.1

Biology

3.5

English Language

3.4

Mathematics

3.2

Sales and Marketing

3.0

Education and Training

2.6

Medicine and Dentistry

2.6

Clerical

2.6

Key Tasks

1Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.

2Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.

3Fill medication prescriptions.

4Assist veterinarians in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries.

5Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.

Also Known As

Animal Care Provider Animal Care Service Worker Animal Care Taker Animal Caregiver Animal Caretaker Animal Health Technician Avian Keeper Emergency Veterinary Assistant Laboratory Animal Caretaker Research Animal Attendant