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Veterinary Assistant Extern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Our veterinary student externship is open to third- and fourth-year students ready to jump into a ... You will assist the specialist with appointments, rechecks, procedures, and surgeries ...

Our veterinary student externship is open to third- and fourth-year students ready to jump into a ... You will assist the specialist with appointments, rechecks, procedures, and surgeries ...

We love to teach and to mentor new professionals and are supported by an amazing group of technicians, technician students, veterinary receptionists and assistants. We have housing available plus a ...

We love to teach and to mentor new professionals and are supported by an amazing group of technicians, technician students, veterinary receptionists and assistants. We have housing available plus a ...

Showing results 21-28

Veterinary Assistant Extern information

What is a veterinary assistant extern?

A Veterinary Assistant Extern is a student or recent graduate who participates in a short-term, supervised training program at a veterinary clinic or hospital. The externship allows them to gain hands-on experience by assisting veterinarians and veterinary technicians with tasks such as animal care, preparing equipment, and maintaining clean facilities. This role is typically part of a veterinary assistant educational program and helps students apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Externs do not receive pay but benefit from valuable mentorship and professional networking opportunities.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a veterinary assistant externship?

As a Veterinary Assistant Extern, you'll gain practical experience by assisting with animal exams, preparing treatment areas, restraining animals during procedures, and supporting veterinary staff with daily tasks. You may also observe surgeries, learn to administer medications, and participate in client communication under supervision. This externship is designed to give you a comprehensive view of clinic operations and help you build confidence in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary assistant extern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Assistant Extern, you need a foundational understanding of animal care, basic clinical procedures, and relevant coursework or enrollment in a veterinary program. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and safety protocols is typically expected. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a compassionate approach to both animals and clients distinguish successful externs. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining clinic efficiency, and supporting veterinary teams in a learning environment.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant Extern vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectVeterinary Assistant ExternVeterinary Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires enrollment in veterinary assisting program or related courseworkUsually requires certification or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentExternship setting, often unpaid, in veterinary clinics or hospitalsPaid position in veterinary clinics, hospitals, or animal shelters
Employer & Industry UsageEducational experience, often part of training programsFull-time or part-time employment in veterinary practices

The main difference is that a Veterinary Assistant Extern is a student gaining practical experience during training, often unpaid, while a Veterinary Assistant is a paid professional working in veterinary settings. Both roles involve assisting with animal care, but the externship is part of an educational program, whereas the assistant role is a job position.

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant Extern jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant Extern jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Veterinary Assistant Extern jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Veterinary Assistant Extern job openings:

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


National Veterinary Associates rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 56 rated veterinary


Job description

Applicants must be third- or fourth-year students of accredited domestic or international veterinary schools, pursuing a DVM, VMD, or foreign equivalent.

Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospital of Byron Center serves the pets of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and other nearby western Michigan communities. Our hospital offers 24/7 inpatient and outpatient emergency care as well as ophthalmology, surgery, cardiology, critical care and internal medicine specialties. We are excited to offer veterinary students highly immersive specialty externship experiences in our established, rapidly growing hospital.

Program Overview:

Our veterinary student externship is open to third- and fourth-year students ready to jump into a two- to four-week specialty experience. You will be paired with a board-certified specialist four days a week. You will assist the specialist with appointments, rechecks, procedures, and surgeries (ophthalmology and surgery). This includes client communication, patient diagnostics, treatment plans, and surgery, with our team's appropriate guidance.

Why choose our hospitals?

Our hospitals employ 30 veterinarians and more than 140 support staff who work as a team and treat each other with kindness and respect. We work hard to create a supportive and welcoming environment, and our veterinarians are eager to teach and mentor student externs. Our 10,000-square-foot facility was built in 2022 and houses 10 exam rooms, dedicated separate isolation spaces, CT, ultrasound, and more.

Grand Rapids, nick-named "Beer City," is a booming city and cultural hub in western Michigan that hosts many breweries and the famed beer trolley tour. We are about an hour's drive to Lake Michigan's quaint beach towns and outdoor enthusiasts have easy access to parks and natural areas.

We also offer emergency externships! During these externships you act as the primary doctor and get to follow your cases from start to finish, including surgery. Here is a link for more information: https://nva.avature.net/jobs/JobDetail/Veterinary-Extern-Emergency-United-States-Michigan-Ethos/21129


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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996