How to Become a Vet Office Manager in Iowa

Many animals across Iowa are taken care of by loving and dedicated people.

If you have a passion for animals and want to make a meaningful contribution, consider a career as a veterinary office manager.

In this role, you can support animal welfare by ensuring the smooth operation of a veterinary practice, without being directly involved in medical procedures or surgeries.

Similar to office managers in other fields, your responsibilities will focus on administrative and organizational tasks.

If this career path intrigues you, read on to discover more about this rewarding profession!

Job Description for Vet Office Managers

The places where you’ll see vet office managers are in a practice dedicated to animals, such as private practices, hospitals, clinics, and so on.

As previously mentioned, their responsibilities are similar to those of administrative assistants or general office managers.

However, it’s important to note that each veterinary office has its unique way of operating, even within the same industry.

The vet office managers usually complete these tasks, but it doesn’t mean these are all their duties:

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

Job descriptions are valuable for both employers and prospective employees.

Veterinary practice owners typically hire for these roles.

When applying for a veterinary office manager position, candidates are generally expected to meet certain requirements.

Relevant experience, typically ranging from 1 to 7 years, is often required.

Educational qualifications can vary, for instance some positions may require only a high school diploma or GED, while others may prefer a diploma related to veterinary office management or a similar field.

Becoming a Vet Office Manager in Iowa

If you’re becoming more interested in a career as a veterinary office manager, understanding the necessary steps to achieve this goal is crucial.

Your journey typically starts with completing high school or obtaining a GED.

Next, you might consider enrolling in a degree program, such as an associate or bachelor’s degree, ideally in business administration or a related field.

Alternatively, you can boost your qualifications by pursuing certification after high school.

One respected option is the certification offered by the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA).

To earn this certification, you’ll need to enroll in their program and pass an exam.

While membership in VHMA is optional, it offers additional benefits.

The exam is administered at various testing centers across Iowa.

Be aware that there is an exam fee:

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

Vet Office Manager Training Programs in Iowa

Do you want to know what programs you can attend in Iowa?

Hawkeye Community College

The veterinary assisting program is an option of the animal science program.

It provides you the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge required for an entry-level career as a veterinary assistant.

You will learn to assist veterinarians in the care of a variety of animals while also learning about:

• Front desk operations
• Data entry, inventory, and record keeping
• Basic lab analysis
• Proper restraint of animals during exams and minor procedures
• Medical terminology
• Pharmacology
• Cleaning and sanitation of cages, kennels, exam rooms, and offices

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Hawkeye has a 225-acre farm lab where students can learn kennel management with cats and dogs, as well as clinic operations.

The classroom laboratory helps students with specific skills in the use of veterinary laboratory equipment.

You will practice proper handling of animals, such as dogs, cats, pocket pets, reptiles, birds, and livestock animals.

The dog simulators will help you learn how to perform CPR and proper restraint of animals.

Students have the possibility of gaining 320 hours of real-world work experience ensuring they have the skills they need to succeed in their future careers.

The certification received will be the0 Fear Free ® certified.

Salary for Vet Office Manager in Iowa

You’ve learned about the role of a veterinary office manager, the pathway to becoming one, and the available training options.

Next, let’s explore the average salary for this career.

In Iowa, the average annual salary for veterinary office managers is $82,668.

It’s important to note that salaries can differ, with certain areas in the state offering higher compensation.

For a comprehensive breakdown, see the table below.

Regional Salary in Iowa

Vet Office Manager by State