The U.S. Army has some members who need special attention. Some have fins and some have tails. These “special forces” are cared for by U.S. Army animal care specialists. Sea mammals, sled dogs, patrol dogs, and horses all play roles in the U.S. Army. Animal care specialists are the soldiers who care for these special workers. If you are interested in a career in the veterinary field, becoming an Army animal care specialist can be a big step in the right direction.
Army animal care specialists translate into the civilian job market as veterinary assistants. The majority of veterinary assistants work in private veterinary clinics or animal laboratories. Most veterinary assistants are trained on the job under the supervision of a veterinarian. Veterinary assistants feed and water animals, clean their environments, inspect them for symptoms of disease or injury, sterilize medical equipment, prepare laboratory samples, and give some medications.
With only a two-year associate degree from an accredited college, a veterinary assistant can become a veterinary technologist. U.S. service members can complete college courses at no expense while on active duty. Additionally, service members can take advantage of military educational benefits such as the G.I. Bill to pay for college after active duty.
Veterinary technologists have increased responsibilities including performing blood and tissue tests and urinalysis. Demand for veterinary technologists is expected to quickly increase. The average income of veterinary technologists in 2008 was $28,900 per year.
Competition for entry into veterinary colleges can be strong due to a limited number of colleges offering two and four-year programs. Working as an Army animal care specialist can give you a significant advantage over other applicants. The experience you gain caring for animals in the Army will set your application apart from others. Army animal care specialists are paid to learn veterinary skills such as taking vital signs, giving physical exams, positioning and restraining animals for treatment, calculating and administering medications, assisting veterinarians in surgery and executing emergency medical techniques.
Training
In addition to serving your country, a significant benefit of being in the army is paid training. Animal Care Specialists complete basic training, and 11 weeks of advanced individual training, which includes training in animal care techniques, emergency medical techniques, sterilizing surgical equipment and casting techniques.
