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Veterinary Science

VETERINARY SCIENCE

INSTRUCTOR:
KIMBERLY BUONOMO

A woman smiles, wearing a stethoscope, with a stuffed dog and skeleton models nearby.

Ms. Buonomo graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Agriculture Education. She has lived in Central Virginia for more than 20 years. She has two children that will be attending the same schools that she attended. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her children, swimming, visiting her horse, playing outside, and watching college football. 


 

Two students examine a small dog, using a stethoscope.

In CATEC's Veterinary Science program, students learn hands-on training in small animal care in a variety of classroom settings, including its simulated small animal veterinary hospital and on-site visits. The course introduces students to the technical knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in careers pertaining to companion animals, including, but not limited to, pet care industries, government agencies, laboratory research institutions, pharmaceutical occupations and veterinary medical assisting and technology, and post-secondary education opportunities. Additionally, the program includes guest speakers, animal demonstrations, and field trips to small animal care facilities. Students will also learn workplace readiness and leadership skills to further them on their pathway to success. 

Veterinary Science Video

CREDIT, CERTIFICATIONS, COURSE INFORMATION, AND PATHWAYS

  • Students receive 2 high school credits total each year for successful completion of the program. 1 additional science credit may be awarded due to the integration of the Biology II: Anatomy & Physiology standards of learning in the coursework.

    • American Allied Health Veterinary Assistant Certification 

     

     

  • Class: Veterinary Science I and II

    State Code: 8088, 8089

    Duration: 1 year

    Grade(s): 10-12

    Dual-Enrollment: BRCC – 12 credits

    Credential(s): Small Animal Science and Technology Assessment

    Time(s): AM Only

  • Veterinary Assistant

    • Assist vet, set up equipment, prepare animal for treatment, and keep records.

    • National Wage Average: $30,000

    • Virginia Wage Average: $32,000

    • Projected Job Growth in Virginia: 19.6%

    • Nationally, 20,000 jobs increase each year for next 10 years

     

    Veterinary Technician

    • Perform medical tests for treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals. Prepare vaccines and serums. Clean and sterilize instruments and materials. May assist vet during surgery. 

    • National Wage Average: $34,000.00

    • Virginia Wage Average: $38,000.00

    • Projected Job Growth in Virginia: 30%

     

    Veterinarian

    • Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Can include conducting research and development, inspecting livestock, or caring for pets and companion animals. 

    • National Wage Average: $94,000.00

    • Virginia Wage Average: $98,000.00

    • Projected Job Growth in Virginia: 29%