July 22, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’ve ever dreamed of working with animals and making a difference in their lives, becoming a veterinary assistant is a fantastic starting point. But one of the most common questions is: how do you get certified as a veterinary assistant in Canada? While veterinary assistants in Canada aren’t regulated in the same way veterinarians or veterinary technicians are, employers increasingly look for candidates who have formal training and certification. Certification not only gives you a competitive edge it gives you the confidence and competence to walk into a clinic and thrive. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about veterinary assistant certification in Canada: what it means, how to get it, and how a diploma from CDI College’s Veterinary Health Care Assistant program sets you up for success. 

What Is Veterinary Assistant Certification? 

In Canada, veterinary assistants don’t require licensure to work. However, completing a diploma or certificate program from a recognized institution essentially serves as your professional certification. This type of training shows employers that you’ve:  

• Mastered essential animal care techniques  
• Learned how to operate in a clinical setting  
• Gained safety and health knowledge  
• Completed supervised practical experience  
• Received up-to-date instruction in veterinary protocols 

Bonus Read: How to Become a Veterinary Assistant in Canada? 

Why Certification Matters 

Even though certification isn’t legally required, most employers in Canada prefer to hire veterinary assistants who are formally trained and certified. Here’s why it matters:  

• Proof of competency: It tells clinics that you have hands-on skills and veterinary knowledge  
• Workplace safety: You’re trained in WHMIS and first aid protocols  
• Job readiness: You require less on-the-job training, which saves clinics time and resources  
• Client trust: Certification shows you take your role seriously and are committed to quality animal care 
   

Step-by-Step: How to Get Veterinary Assistant Certification in Canada 

Step 1: Complete a High School Diploma or Equivalent 

Most veterinary assistant programs in Canada, including at CDI College, require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. Some may also accept mature students without a diploma based on entrance assessments. 

Step 2: Enroll in a Recognized Veterinary Assistant Program 

This is the core of your certification journey. Choose a program that combines classroom learning, labs, and real-world practice. The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College is one of the most respected options in British Columbia. In just 40 weeks, you’ll receive training in: 
 

• Animal anatomy and physiology  
• Veterinary medical terminology  
• Animal nutrition and husbandry  
• Veterinary office administration  
• Clinical care and surgical preparation  
• Diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures - Animal behaviour and handling techniques 

Step 3: Complete a Supervised Practicum 

A good program will include practical experience in a real veterinary setting. At CDI College, you’ll complete a 120-hour practicum at a clinic, animal hospital, or similar facility. This practicum:  
 

• Gives you hands-on experience in animal care  
• Helps you build professional relationships and references  
• Could lead directly to your first job offer 

Bonus Read: How Long Does It Take to Become a Veterinary Assistant?   
 

Step 4: Graduate With Industry Certifications 

Certification isn’t just about completing a diploma. CDI College’s Veterinary Health Care Assistant program also includes:  
 

• WHMIS 2015 Certification (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) 
• Standard First Aid with CPR-C and AED  
• DOGSAFE® Canine First Aid 
   

These certifications prove that you’re prepared for emergencies and know how to work safely around animals and chemicals, a big plus for employers. 

Where Can You Work After Certification? 

With veterinary assistant certification, you’ll be qualified to work in a variety of animal care environments, including:  
 

• Private veterinary clinics and hospitals  
• Animal shelters and humane societies  
• Pet grooming and boarding facilities  
• Zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centres  
• Pet retail stores and pharmaceutical companies 

How CDI College Supports Your Career 

At CDI College, certification is just the beginning. The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma program also offers:  
 

• Career and Employment Strategies course to build your resume and prep for interviews 
• Career Services support to help connect you with employers  
• Flexible delivery options for students balancing work or family responsibilities 
   

Plus, with campuses across British Columbia, you can find a location that fits your lifestyle. 

Final Thoughts 

Getting certified as a veterinary assistant in Canada doesn’t require a university degree or licensing board but it does require dedication, quality training, and hands-on experience. With CDI College’s 40-week Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma, you’ll graduate with all the skills, confidence, and credentials you need to land a job and thrive in the animal care industry. If you’re ready to turn your love for animals into a meaningful career, contact CDI College today to learn more about getting certified as a veterinary assistant.