How to Become a Vet Office Manager in California

California has many animal lovers who are dedicated to the well-being of their pets.

If you’re passionate about animals and want to play a more active role in their care, consider becoming a veterinary office manager.

This role enables you to support animal health without directly participating in surgeries or medical procedures.

Your responsibilities will be more aligned with those of a traditional office manager.

If this introduction resonates with you, continue reading to learn more about this rewarding career!

Job Description for Vet Office Managers

Veterinary office managers can be found in animal clinics, hospitals, and sometimes animal rescue organizations.

As noted earlier, the duties and responsibilities of a veterinary office manager are comparable to those of administrative assistants or office managers.

It’s important to recognize that each office, even within the same industry, operates uniquely.

Here are some of the typical responsibilities of veterinary office managers:

• Scheduling appointments
• Billing pet owners
• Ordering supplies
• Supervising office staff

Job descriptions serve as valuable resources for both employers and prospective employees.

Typically, the employers are the owners of veterinary practices.

When applying for this role, you’ll need to meet certain qualifications.

Generally, having between 1 and 7 years of work experience is required.

Educational requirements may vary.

Some positions might only require a high school diploma or GED, while others might need a diploma specifically related to veterinary office management.

Becoming a Vet Office Manager in California

If you’re increasingly interested in becoming a veterinary office manager, it’s important to understand the steps to enter this career.

Typically, your journey begins by completing high school or earning a GED.

Next, you might consider enrolling in a degree program.

This can be an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business administration or other related field.

Alternatively, after high school, obtaining certification can bolster your qualifications.

The Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) offers a notable certificate.

To get this certification you must enroll in the program and pass an exam.

While membership in the VHMA is not required, it can be beneficial.

There are several testing centers throughout California where you can take the exam.

Be aware that there is a fee for taking the exam:

• $675 for VHMA members
• $825 for non-members

Vet Office Manager Training Programs in California

You learned so much about this occupation this far, that you need to have a look at some training programs.

If you’re aspiring to a career in the veterinary field and aiming for a role as an office manager, this course is the perfect starting point!

California State University – Fullerton

The Veterinary Office Manager program equips you with the crucial skills needed to handle the business operations of a veterinary practice and prepares you for a career as a veterinary office manager.

You’ll also gain proficiency in Microsoft Office, a valuable asset in any job, whether you’re starting or have years of experience.

Additionally, the course offers basic training for veterinary assistants.

You’ll learn how to use QuickBooks Online to manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll, which are fundamental skills that enhance any resume.

The program also prepares you for certification exams in Microsoft Word, Excel, and QuickBooks.

By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to succeed as a veterinary office manager and more.

Upon completing the course, you’ll receive vouchers for the QuickBooks Certified User (QBCU) Exam and the Microsoft exams (MO-201 or MO-211 for Excel, and MO-101 or MO-111 for Word).

These vouchers cover the cost of the certifying exams, though proctor fees may apply and are not included.

Some of the topics you will learn include:

• Anatomy and physiology of major organ systems
• Managing medical records and effective communication with clients and coworkers
• Techniques for restraining animals during procedures, taking vital signs, and bathing pets
• Basic knowledge of nutrition, vaccinations, and medication administration
• Assisting in surgeries and dental procedures
• Preparing prescriptions, taking blood samples, and performing radiographs
• Responsibilities of a Veterinary Office Manager
• Efficient use of Microsoft Office Word and Excel
• Professional communication and office etiquette
• Creating and presenting impactful information and data

Salary for Vet Office Manager in California

You now know what a veterinary office manager does, the steps to become one, and where you can receive training for the role.

Next, let’s explore the potential earnings for a veterinary office manager.

In California, the average annual salary for this position is approximately $95,280.

Keep in mind that salaries can vary significantly depending on the region within the state.

To gain a clearer picture of these variations, refer to the table below.

Regional Salary in California

Vet Office Manager by State