How to Become a Vet Office Manager in Nevada

Those passionate about working with animals but don’t want to opt for veterinarian school can still work as a veterinarian office manager at a vet.

The role of a vet office manager includes scheduling, checking inventory, making calls, and collecting payments.

While it isn’t a clinical position, the job still plays a vital role in helping keep animals safe.

If you’re interested in becoming a vet office manager, we’ll introduce you to everything you need to know.

Vet Office Manager Duties in Nevada

A vet office manager is responsible for daily tasks that help run a veterinarian’s office.

Primary duties include taking phone calls, helping clients schedule appointments, and bookkeeping.

In addition, vet office managers will help manage inventory, train staff, and implement policies. I

Furthermore, vet office managers are also responsible for clerical tasks such as bookkeeping, updating records, and answering basic questions for clients.

Other duties and responsibilities may include:

• Reception
• Scheduling
• Maintaining financial records
• Ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations
• Monitoring work staff and performance
• Provide feedback to staff
• Coach or train staff
• Manage staff, such as hiring, recruitment, and more
• Dealing with client complaints
• Monitor and maintain inventory
• Keep and update medical records

Licensing Requirements to Become

Becoming a vet office manager varies from an animal hospital in terms of qualifications.

While some may require formal training in business management, others may accept on-the-job experience.

However, it’s recommended that applicants at least acquire a certificate or bachelor’s degree to show that they have administrative tasks and strong management skills.

Step 1: High School Diploma or GED

The first step to becoming a vet office manager is having a GED or high school diploma.

Applicants must be 18 or older and have completed four years of general education in high school.

Once that is completed, applicants can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Bachelor’s/Certificate or On-the-Job Training

Applicants who want to become a vet office manager must gain experience in administration, business management, or veterinary medicine.

Business management can be learned on the job in various roles and from a degree program.

Some educational institutions also offer a certificate training program, albeit they are not required.

In Nevada, vet office managers don’t need a certificate or degree. Instead, they can opt for on-the-job training or relevant experience.

This can be through two years of veterinary expertise or customer service experience.

The VHMA also offers a Mentor Program that allows new managers to gain experience in the field.

Step 3: Continuing Education Programs

Certificate programs are available for those wanting to continue their education and gain more relevant skills.

Continuing education certificates include the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association’s (VHMA) Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certificate.

Vet Office Manager Programs

Vet office manager programs range from business management certificates to administration.

Future veterinary office managers will want to further their education to become more competitive applicants.

Below are three programs, which are either based in Nevada or online.

1. Western Nevada College

Western Nevada College offers an online veterinary office manager certificate program.

It’s an 18-month, 450-hour self-paced course that costs $6,170.

The coursework prepares students to work in a veterinarian’s office in a management role.

It includes anatomy and physiology, handling medical records, knowledge about nutrition, the duties of office manager, and more.

2. University of Nevada, Reno

The University of Nevada, Reno, offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Science.

While not necessary, a veterinarian degree can help future vet office managers become more familiar with how an animal hospital works.

The degree is a four-year program that prepares students to apply to veterinary school.

3. Penn Foster

Penn Foster offers a Veterinary Practice Management Certificate program, one step above a Vet Office Manager.

The program spans 12 months and costs $1,999.

Students attending will gain knowledge in the field that fits the Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) program requirements and allow them to sit for the CVPM exam.

In addition, this program is a trusted partner with Banfield, VCA, and BluePearl.

Salary

The average vet office manager’s salary is $86,728 but it ranges between $75,500 and $99,647.

On the low end, the salary is averaged at $65,278, with the high end being $111,410.

The pay is often dependent upon location, skills, and expertise.

Regional Salary in Nevada

How to Become a Vet Office Manager by State