Veterinary Assistant Program coming to the area

The pandemic was an eye-opening time for local veterinary hospitals. In fact, what was thought to be a local phenomenon turned out to be a national crisis. Unprecedented numbers of animals were brought to vet hospitals resulting in wait times at pet emergency rooms for up to 24 hours in some cases. While it seems that, in part, this surge was due to an increase in animals that were adopted during the pandemic, a major and concerning critical factor was also the lack of trained staff to help keep up with the increased case load. When this happens, pet owners become frustrated, veterinarians become the target of this frustration, the entire hospital staff becomes over worked and fatigued, and patient care standards fall. It's a vicious cycle.

While the lack of qualified staff has been an increasing trend over the past decade, in greater New Haven County, there are currently no programs in place for those individuals who are interested to become trained to work with animals. There are several associate degree veterinary technology programs run by the state university system as well as several certificate programs for veterinary assistants. But, nothing easily accessible for a new high school graduate. Until now!

This fall, Central Hospital for Veterinary Medicine in North Haven will be taking the first two classes in the new 250 hour veterinary assistant certificate program. The hospital is located in the Cross Roads Medical Office park at 4 Devine Street. The program consists of 150 hours of lecture time which will be held at the hospital, and 100 hours of externship which involves mentored hands-on experience in a local veterinary practice. Find out more about this two-semester program by visiting www.centralvetlearning.com or contact Michelle Staffa, CVT, Program Director at mstaffa@centralpetvet.com, phone 203-867-5172.