My Colorado Journey
Back to pathway map
Agriculture

Veterinarian Assistant and Laboratory Animal Caretaker

Feed, water, and examine pets and other nonfarm animals for signs of illness, disease, or injury in laboratories and animal hospitals and clinics. Clean and disinfect cages and work areas, and sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment. May provide routine postoperative care, administer medication orally or topically, or prepare samples for laboratory examination under the supervision of veterinary or laboratory animal technologists or technicians, veterinarians, or scientists.

Annual openings

575

Median wage

$38,900

Typical education

High school (GED)

Growth 2026–2032

+14%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

Interactive walkthrough

Explore My Colorado Journey Careers

See where to compare pay, job demand, locations, skills, education, and training for a Colorado career.

Open in a new tab

Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED)

Credential requirement

No certification is required or expected for this job.

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsMay vary
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Agriculture and Sustainability
  • Animals and Wildlife

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.
  2. Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.
  3. Fill medication prescriptions.
  4. Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
  5. Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.
  6. Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as taking or developing x-rays.
Feedback