Subject: The Star-Ledger (NJ)
From: "Merilee:::Kern Communications" <[email-masked]>
To: <[email-masked]>
Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:46:28 -0700

http://www.nj.com/homegarden/homestories/index.ssf/2008/07/love_pets_you_can_learn_to_ass.html

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HOME & GARDEN 
Home Stories
Love pets? You can learn to assist vets
by Joan Lowell Smith 
Friday July 18, 2008, 2:33 PM

Although we know finances are tough for just about everyone these days, the pet care industry appears to be recession-proof, says FETCH! Pet Care, a leader in professional at-home pet care. 
The company quotes a survey that found, "Even in a recession, pet owners will give up other luxuries to continue optimum care of their pets." 

So, with 63 percent of households owning at least one pet, and annual spending on pets expected to hit $53 billion in the next two years (according to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association), there's plenty of room for a career connected with pets. 

Those stats lead us to a stellar idea initiated by Middlesex County College in Edison. Starting with the fall semester, a pilot "Veterinary Assistants Program" will be offered -- the first such program in the state. Lynn Lederer, director of professional and community programs for the college, together with Susen Edwards, coordinator for allied health programs, have created the noncredit courses, which initially are limited to 15 students per evening class. "About one and a half semesters, covering six courses, will earn the graduating student a certificate to become a veterinary assistant," Edwards says.

A veterinary assistant is not to be confused with a veterinary technician, who attends classes for two years to earn an associate's degree. In the past, veterinary assistants received on-the-job training from a veterinarian. Today, most vets don't have the time. 

"With everything getting more specific in veterinary medicine, we really need to have good training. At the college, we're going to be more theory-oriented. Once certified, assistants will then put their knowledge into practice with the veterinarian," Edwards says. 

At the start "It's really exciting," says Lederer, who explains that their "pet project" is partnered with Sayrebrook Veterinary Hospital in Sayreville. "Our office coordinator, Joan Gill, recommended Sayrebrook because they are very well respected in the area, with a large practice. We're keeping the pilot project deliberately small to have the time to deal with any problems that may arise." 

Assuming it works out well, the program will expand in the spring of 2009, she says. 

Entrance requirements include a high school diploma or GED, demonstrated proficiency in the English language and proof of basic personal health insurance. Courses consist of veterinary administration, animal management, animal biology and veterinary nursing, all to be offered in September. In spring, the courses are veterinary pharmacology and 75 hours of veterinary assistant externship at Sayrebrook Veterinary Hospital. The courses total 156 hours. 

For those students who may have completed one or more segments in another venue, they may pay on a per course basis. Otherwise, the cost is $669 for the entire program. 

Strictly for love
ÂIn case anyone wonders, "No one is going to get rich doing this work," Lederer advises. "This program is strictly for animal lovers. It is a very gratifying career." 

She adds that graduates, at some point, may lean toward expanding their careers to become veterinary technicians or veterinarians. "Being a certified veterinary assistant is a good entry-level career choice for someone who isn't quite sure what to do and it gives them an immediate job." 

As for potential responsibilities, Edwards predicts, "In a smaller office, they would be at the front desk, with time in the back working with animals. In a larger practice, more than likely, it could be one or the other. It's hard to judge since every practice is different." Wages could vary widely depending on the size of the practice. 

To register or for questions, contact the college at (732) 906-2556 and specify the veterinary assistant program. 

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AMANDA BROWN/STAR-LEDGER STAFF

Susen Edwards, Allied Health Program Coordinator at Middlesex County College, and Robyn Geis, a veterinary tech instructor at the college, holds puppy Tiki at Sayrebrook Veterinary Hospital in Sayreville.