How to Become a Vet Office Manager in Maryland

Maryland is home to a thriving community of animal enthusiasts who prioritize the health and well-being of their pets.

If you’re passionate about animals and eager to make a difference, a career as a veterinary office manager could be ideal.

In this position, you’ll contribute to animal welfare by overseeing the smooth operation of a veterinary practice, without direct involvement in medical procedures or surgeries.

Continue reading to explore more about this rewarding career path!

Job Description for Vet Office Managers

Veterinary office managers are primarily employed in animal clinics, hospitals, and occasionally in animal rescue organizations.

Their responsibilities closely mirror those of administrative assistants or general office managers.

However, each veterinary office operates uniquely, even within the same industry.

Here are some typical duties of veterinary office managers:

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

Job descriptions help both employers and job seekers.

Typically, veterinary practice owners handle the hiring process for these positions.

Candidates applying for veterinary office manager roles are generally expected to meet specific requirements.

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

Some employers may require only a high school diploma or GED, and others may prefer candidates with a diploma related to veterinary office management or a similar field.

Becoming a Vet Office Manager in Maryland

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

Start by completing high school or obtaining a GED.

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

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

A well-regarded 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 VHMA membership is optional, it provides additional benefits.

The exam is administered at various testing centers across Louisiana.

To take the exam, you’ll have to pay a fee:

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

Vet Office Manager Training Programs in Maryland

Let’s have a look at the institutions where you can train at!

Montgomery College

The Veterinary Assistant Training Program is a thorough course featuring four modules and a 150-hour internship, beginning each September.

Held on Fridays throughout the year at the Rockville Campus, the modules must be completed sequentially.

Upon finishing the coursework and internship, participants receive a certificate of completion.

To enroll and complete the Veterinary Assistant Program, students should follow these steps:

• Vet Assessment Exam:
  • Register and pay for a summer semester exam date as the first requirement.
• Mandatory Orientation:
  • After passing the exam, attend a free, mandatory orientation session to receive a registration ticket.
• Module Registration and Attendance:
  • Use the registration ticket to enroll in the first module and start classes in September.
• Internship:
  • Gain practical experience through an internship during the spring semester.

Harford Community College

Turn your passion for animals into a fulfilling career by enrolling in the Veterinary Assistant certification program at Harford Community College.

This program equips you with the essential skills to collaborate effectively with veterinarians and veterinary technicians.

Veterinary assistants have a crucial part in various services, including diagnostics, nutrition, emergency care, surgery, and more.

There are 5 courses plus a 100-hour externship, which include:

• Introduction to Veterinary Assisting
• Anatomy, Physiology, Disease, and Nutrition
• Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques
• Surgery and Emergency Care
• Large and Exotic Animals

The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America approved this program.

Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Must pass the Reading (NGR) and Math (NGA) Assessments
• Prerequisite courses in Animal First Aid and CPR, and Massage Therapy for Animals

Students must also complete a 100-hour externship at a veterinary clinic.

Upon finishing this program, students are ready to take the national certification exam administered by NAVTA.

Passing this exam certifies them as veterinary assistants, opening the door to various job opportunities in the field.

Salary for Vet Office Manager in Maryland

Let’s look at the average salary for this profession!

In Maryland, veterinary office managers generally earn an average annual salary of $89,061.

Remember, salaries can vary, with some regions of the state offering higher wages than others as seen in the table below.

Regional Salary in Maryland

Vet Office Manager by State