How do you become a veterinary receptionist?

1 Skills and Qualities

To be a successful veterinary receptionist, you need to have a combination of hard and soft skills. Hard skills are technical and practical abilities that can be learned through training, education, or experience, such as computer literacy, data entry and accuracy, and animal handling. Soft skills are personal and interpersonal attributes that help you communicate and collaborate with others, such as communication, customer service, teamwork, problem-solving, organization, and compassion. Computer literacy requires you to use various software programs and veterinary management systems. Data entry and accuracy requires you to enter and update client and patient information with speed and accuracy. Animal handling requires you to handle animals safely and gently while recognizing signs of stress or illness. Communication requires you to communicate clearly and professionally with clients, veterinarians, and other staff members both verbally and in writing. Customer service requires you to provide friendly service to clients while handling complaints effectively. Teamwork requires you to work well with others while respecting different roles. Problem-solving requires you to identify issues while making decisions. Organization requires you to manage your time while keeping track of multiple details. Compassion requires you to show care for animals and their owners while coping with emotional situations.

2 Education and Training

There is no formal education requirement to become a veterinary receptionist, but most employers prefer candidates who have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may also require or prefer candidates who have some college education or a certificate or diploma in veterinary office administration, veterinary assistant, or animal care. These programs can provide you with the basic knowledge and skills in veterinary terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, diseases, and procedures. They can also teach you how to perform common tasks, such as taking vital signs, collecting samples, administering medications, and assisting with surgery and radiology.

You can find these programs at various community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions. They typically take between six months and two years to complete, depending on the level and format of the program. Some programs may also include an internship or externship component, where you can gain hands-on experience in a veterinary setting.

4 Job Outlook and Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of veterinary receptionists is projected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for animal health services, as more people own pets and seek preventive and specialized care for them. The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for veterinary receptionists was $29,290 in May 2020, which is lower than the median for all receptionists and information clerks ($30,990). However, the pay may vary depending on the location, size, and type of the veterinary practice, as well as the experience and qualifications of the veterinary receptionist.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?