July 29, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’re an animal lover looking for a meaningful, hands-on career, becoming a veterinary assistant might be the perfect fit. But before you start applying to clinics or exploring training options, you may be wondering: what qualifications do you need to be a veterinary assistant in Canada? The path is more accessible than you might think, and you can be job-ready in under a year with the right education, skills, and certifications. In this blog, we’ll walk through the qualifications veterinary assistants need, what employers are looking for, and how the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College can help you gain them all. 
 

Qualifications You Need to Be a Veterinary Assistant 
 

1. High School Education or Equivalent 

Most veterinary assistant programs and employers require you to have at least a high school diploma or GED. Basic math and communication skills are essential for working in clinical and customer-facing environments. Some colleges, like CDI College, also accept mature students who pass entrance assessments, even if they haven’t completed high school. 
 

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

2. Formal Veterinary Assistant Training 

While it’s possible to find work with minimal training, completing a recognized diploma or certificate program is now the industry standard. The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College is a 40-week, career-focused program that teaches: 
 

• Animal anatomy and behaviour  
• Veterinary medical terminology  
• Surgical prep and sterilization  
• Diagnostic imaging and lab support  
• Nutrition, pathology, and preventative care  
• Client communication and office procedures 
   

This structured training makes you more attractive to employers and prepares you for real-world responsibilities. 

3. Industry Certifications 

Employers prefer (and sometimes require) veterinary assistants who hold certifications that prove they’re trained in workplace safety and animal first aid. At CDI College, students graduate with:  
 

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

These qualifications ensure you’re equipped to respond to emergencies and protect yourself, your team, and your patients. 

4. Practical Experience Through Practicum 

Hands-on experience is one of the most important qualifications you can have. CDI College includes a 120-hour practicum placement in a real veterinary clinic or animal care facility. During this practicum, you’ll:  
 

• Apply your training with real animals  
• Work under the supervision of veterinary professionals  
   

Gain confidence in a clinical environment - Network with potential employers and build references 

5. Soft Skills That Matter 

Beyond technical training, successful veterinary assistants possess important soft skills, such as:  
 

• Compassion and empathy for animals and their owners  
• Communication skills to explain procedures and comfort clients  
• Teamwork to collaborate with vets, techs, and reception staff  
• Attention to detail when recording data or assisting in procedures  
• Physical stamina to lift animals and be on your feet most of the day 
   

These qualities are just as critical as your certifications and education. 

6. Ongoing Learning and Passion for Animal Care 

Veterinary medicine is always evolving. A willingness to learn, grow, and stay up to date with industry best practices is a huge asset. Many vet assistants go on to:  
 

• Specialize in surgical or dental care  
• Become veterinary technicians (via additional education)  
• Explore animal welfare, training, or wildlife care careers 

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

Why Choose CDI College? 

CDI College’s Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma is designed to equip you with all the qualifications you need:  
 

• Formal training in veterinary care, clinic administration, and animal handling  
• Real-world experience through practicum  
• Industry certifications that boost your employability  
• Career services support to help you land your first job 
   

You’ll graduate confident, competent, and ready to begin your animal care journey. 

Final Thoughts 

To become a veterinary assistant in Canada, you don’t need a university degree, but you do need the right qualifications. That means:  
 

• A high school diploma or mature student standing  
• A comprehensive diploma program  
• Key certifications (WHMIS, CPR, canine first aid)  
• Practical experience in a clinic  
• Soft skills like compassion, organization, and communication 
   

The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College delivers all of these and more in just 40 weeks. If you’re ready to turn your passion for animals into a meaningful career, contact CDI College today and find out how to qualify as a veterinary assistant.