The most modern, supported path to becoming an Approved Veterinary Assistant
IVAP (IGNITE Veterinary Assistant Program) is one of only seven NAVTA-approved online veterinary assistant programs in the country.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking to elevate your skills, IVAP delivers a flexible, modern, career-focused path to certification with unmatched support and expertise.
For new VAs | For experienced VAs seeking credentials | For practice owners
Why IVAP stands apart from every other NAVTA-approved program
Led by Dr. Jim Hurrell – Your Expert Guide
One of the biggest differentiators of IVAP is the direct support and guidance from Dr. Jim Hurrell, our Program Director. With years of clinical and educational experience, Dr. Jim is here to help you succeed.
- Ask questions in real time
- Get expert advice on course topics or real-world challenges
- Explore Dr. Jim's responses to other students in our IVAP community
- Connect with fellow students and build your network
A Private Student Community You Can Rely On
All students get access to our safe and secure online community, where you can connect, share, and grow together.
- Share your progress
- Ask questions (Dr. Jim will respond daily!)
- Connect with your peers
- Get encouragement and inspiration
Live Support When You Need It
Have a question or stuck on something? We've got your back with multiple ways to get support.
- Live chat with our student success team on the website
- Email us anytime
- Reach out directly to Dr. Jim Hurrell
NAVTA-Approved Textbook
This resource enhances comprehension, boosts exam readiness, and strengthens real-world application.
- Official NAVTA Approval – The only supplemental textbook recognized by NAVTA for veterinary assistant programs
- Boost Exam Success – We believe this textbook will help our students achieve a higher pass rate.
- Written by Industry Experts – Authored by nationally recognized leaders in the veterinary field
- Focused, Practical Content – Covers the most essential topics to help students retain knowledge and get the most out of their training
Fear Free® Certificate – Included at No Extra Cost
Access your Fear Free® Certificate (a $299 value) - integrated into your program at no additional cost. This nationally recognized training helps you provide more compassionate care from day one.
- Built Into IVAP – Included free for all graduates (no additional fees or add-ons)
- Not Offered by Every Program – Many veterinary assistant programs do not include Fear Free training
- Gentle, Compassionate Animal Handling – Learn low-stress techniques for restraint and interaction in clinical settings
- Recognized Industry Standard – Learn more about Fear Free at fearfreepets.com
Safe Animal Handling for Horses, Cattle, Goats, and Chickens – Included at No Extra Cost
This module builds skills in safe handling. You'll also learn basic husbandry. You'll also learn common medical procedures, fieldwork best practices, and how to spot signs of illness or distress in large animals.
- Safe handling techniques for horses, cattle, goats, and chickens
- Hands-on medical assisting procedures and fieldwork best practices
- Early detection of illness and signs of distress
CareCredit® Finance Certificate – Included at No Extra Cost
This certificate equips you to confidently have financial conversations with clients, discuss financing options, integrate finance into care recommendations, handle objections, and help more clients move forward with care.
- Integrate financing into treatment recommendations with compliance
- Handle common client questions and objections effectively
What You'll Learn
Our comprehensive curriculum prepares you for every aspect of veterinary assistance, from clinical procedures to professional communication and career readiness.
Master Veterinary Clinical and Administrative Procedures
Gain a comprehensive understanding of hospital operations, including patient intake, medical records, history taking, pharmacy and inventory protocols, surgical prep, and exam room procedures.
Develop Proficiency in Animal Handling, Behavior, and Care
Learn safe and effective techniques for restraint, behavior assessment, and care of small animals, exotics, and birds, including triage, nutrition, oral health, and basic nursing skills, along with safe handling of cattle, horses, goats, and chickens.
Communicate Effectively and Ethically in Veterinary Settings
Build strong client communication skills, understand empathy, demonstrate professionalism and etiquette, understand the human-animal bond, and apply veterinary ethics in daily practice.
Perform Diagnostic, Laboratory, and Emergency Procedures with Confidence
Acquire hands-on skills in sample collection, parasitology, radiology, emergency care, and infectious disease control following OSHA standards and safety protocols.
Prepare for Real-World Success and Career Longevity
Cultivate job-readiness through resume preparation, compassion fatigue management, understanding pet insurance, and completing practical and written final exams. Emphasis on Fear Free™ practices ensures better outcomes for pets, clients, and the team at no additional cost.
Ready to Explore the Complete Curriculum?
Dive deeper into our comprehensive program structure and see exactly what you'll master in each module.
Sticky Learning by Design: So You Remember It, Apply It, and Grow
Our innovative approach combines proven educational methodologies with cutting-edge technology to transform your veterinary assistant training experience.
Retention-Focused Learning
- Designed to help students retain knowledge long-term
- Emphasizes applying learning in real-world scenarios
- Builds adaptability and confidence in clinical situations
Interactive Digital Tools
- Topic-centered digital worksheets simulate real-life scenarios
- Connect emotional intelligence with clinical thinking
- Reinforce the link between theory and practice
Hands-On Clinical Application
- Perform diagnostic, laboratory, and emergency support procedures with confidence
- Acquire hands-on skills in sample collection, parasitology, and radiology
- Learn emergency care and infectious disease control following OSHA standards
IVAP Curriculum & Syllabus
Explore our comprehensive 9-module curriculum designed to prepare you for a successful career as a veterinary assistant. Each module builds upon the previous, ensuring thorough understanding and practical application.
Module 1 Office and Hospital Procedures
1.1 Veterinary Roles and Responsibilities
- Introduce the realities of a career as a veterinary assistant
- Describe the roles and responsibilities of each veterinary health care team member
- Understand the essential role each team member plays in the success of a veterinary practice
1.2 Clinic Etiquette
- Understand the function of professional etiquette in a veterinary setting
- Develop a positive attitude toward work and learning by understanding the importance of responsibility, dependability, integrity, and work ethic
- Review the importance of acting professionally and ethically in a clinical setting
1.3 Human-Animal Bond
- Discuss the role of the human-animal bond in veterinary medicine
- Understand how the human-animal bond can improve patient care
- Outline the veterinary assistant's role in nurturing the bond
1.4 Medical Terminology
- Define, spell, and pronounce veterinary medical terminology roots, suffixes, and prefixes
- Demonstrate a comprehension of the context in which veterinary medical terminology is used
- Explain the importance of medical terminology in the small animal veterinary clinic
Module 2 Communication and Client Relations
2.1 Client Communication
- Understand the importance of effective communication in a clinical setting
- Demonstrate practical communication skills in a clinical setting
- Explore best practices in communicating with clients in multiple formats
2.2 Veterinary Ethics
- Discuss the role of ethics in veterinary medicine
- Understand the social issues that impact veterinary medicine
- Enhance ethical literacy
2.3 History Taking
- Explain the importance of determining the primary complaint
- Understand the importance of a TPR and measuring a pet's weight at each visit
- Discuss the importance of a thorough medical history
2.4 Initial Assessment / PE
- Obtain vitals on canine and feline patients
- Define the role of the veterinary assistant from the time of the client's arrival to their departure
- Discuss the process for generating and maintaining a patient medical record
Module 3 Animal Behavior and Restraint
3.1 Animal Behavior
- Analyze dog groups and associated behavior traits
- Explain how understanding canine and feline behavior will aid in your role as a veterinary assistant
- Understand the basics of canine and feline behavior
3.2 Fear Free™ Veterinary Certification Program
- Reduce or remove anxiety triggers that can cause pets to become fearful
- Help owners deliver calm pets to the hospital
- Enhance the quality of medicine and increase compliance in your practice
- Improve safety for the veterinary team
3.3 Animal Restraint
- Discuss the various restraint and handling techniques for small animals
- Explain how understanding animal behavior will aid in safely handling veterinary patients
- Practice the various restraint and handling techniques for dogs and cats
3.4 Common Canine and Feline Breeds
- Identify canine and feline breeds based on their physical characteristics and classifications
- Compare different breeds' attributes and suitability as pets
- Understand the basic care requirements of common cat and dog breeds
3.5 Avian ABCs and Essential Exotics
- Understand the special skills needed when handling birds and exotics
- Recognize commonly kept species and their characteristics
- Become familiar with client education, husbandry, and nutrition for commonly encountered avian and exotic species
Module 4 Pharmacy and Pharmacology
4.1 Pharmacology
- Discuss the standard abbreviations associated with pharmacology
- Understand labeling and dispensing medication according to a DVM's prescription
- Outline the different groups of medications
4.2 Inventory Control
- Introduce the logistics of effective inventory management
- Discover how to set up your practice management software for inventory management
- Discuss processes for placing orders, receiving inventory, bulk orders, and controlled substance compliance
4.3 Vaccines
- Define and identify vaccine components
- Indicate canine and feline core and non-core vaccinations
- Understand the difference between vaccine types
4.4 Basic Medical Math
- Be able to convert lb to kg and vice versa
- Differentiate between drug concentration and drug dosage
- Understand the responsibility of the veterinary assistant when calculating drug doses
Module 5 Exam Room Procedures
5.1 Common Diseases
- Understand common disease processes and explain modes of infection and prevention
- Define zoonosis and describe the measures used when handling suspected patients
5.2 Medicating Patients
- Describe the common routes of medication administration
- Utilize patient and personnel safety measures
- Demonstrate routine record-keeping and observation of hospitalized patients
5.3 Oral Health
- Describe the three layers of the tooth, teeth types, and basic anatomical structures of the tooth
- Explain the difference between plaque and calculus
- Outline the importance of anesthesia for a thorough dental examination and prophylaxis
5.4 End of Life and Grief
- Outline the experience of the pet, caregiver, and veterinary team during the euthanasia process
- Recognize ways to discuss euthanasia and death with clients
- Review ways to support the bereaved client
Module 6 Small Animal Nursing
6.1 Anatomy and Physiology
- Differentiate the significant anatomical structures
- Define the directional terms and planes
- Identify the anatomy of the female and male kittens
6.2 Nursing Skills
- Monitor and record observations on patients
- Prepare patients for discharge from the hospital and communicate with clients about discharge instructions
- Recognize the different types of treatment sheets and how to prioritize treatments
6.3 Small Animal Nutrition
- Identify small animal nutritional requirements
- Discuss the importance of the six classes of food nutrients
- Understand pet food labeling standards and the differences between pet food products
6.4 Triage and Emergency Care
- Define the word triage and understand the priorities of veterinary emergencies
- Discuss the principles of CPR and the team approach to its success
- Identify common veterinary emergencies and the equipment needed to manage each
Module 7 Laboratory Procedures and Diagnostic Imaging
7.1 Basic Lab
- Understand the importance of laboratory sample preparation
- Identify the collection tube types, additives, and their uses
- Describe the methods for collecting urine, fecal, and blood samples
7.2 Parasitology
- Identify how the most common endoparasites and exoparasites infect pets
- Recognize the equipment and tests utilized to identify parasites
- Develop a working knowledge of parasite life cycles
7.3 OSHA Standards and Infection Control
- Classify common workplace hazards in a veterinary facility and describe precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk of these hazards
- Understand the preparation required to maintain a veterinary facility safely for all healthcare team members
- Recognize the safety rights and responsibilities of all veterinary employees
7.4 Diagnostic Imaging
- Describe patient measuring, positioning, and labeling for standard radiological views
- Review radiology safety, documentation, and tools for veterinary staff members and patients
- Understand the directional terminology used for diagnostic imaging
Module 8 Surgical Preparation and Assisting
8.1 Elective Surgery
- Understand the differences between canine and feline ovulation cycles
- Define neuter, ovariohysterectomy, and cryptorchid
- Recognize the benefits of sterilization
8.2 Surgical Prep and Assisting
- Identify surgical instruments and how to clean and maintain them
- Demonstrate the aseptic unwrapping of sterile packaging
- Aid the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician with physical monitoring of recovering surgical patients
Module 9 Career Readiness
9.1 Compassion Fatigue
- Recognize the symptoms of compassion fatigue
- Discuss compassion fatigue and its impact on the veterinary industry
- Understand how to manage compassion fatigue in your own life
9.2 Pet Insurance
- Describe the role of pet insurance in patient care and client compliance
- Review discussing pet insurance with veterinary clients
- Understand how the VCPR and pet insurance intersect
9.3 Career Readiness
- Relate personal skills, aptitudes, and abilities to a career as a veterinary assistant
- Demonstrate professional and appropriate appearance and language in the workplace
- Compile important personal, educational, and career information to incorporate into a resume
9.4 Practical Final Exam
- Demonstrate the practical skills needed to be a veterinary assistant
- Explain how techniques can be modified to suit a variety of species and situations
- Understand the concepts and theories behind the skills required to be a veterinary assistant
9.5 Final Externship Submissions
- Upload completed 100/100 clinical externship hours
- Complete and upload the previous 4 module proficiency checklists
9.6 Fear Free Certification for IVAP Students
- Reinforce the importance of Fear Free within the clinic for better patient care
- Explain why being Fear Free Certified is a benefit personally and professionally
9.7 IVAP Final Exam
- Demonstrate the knowledge acquired throughout the course
- Reinforce understanding of the topics covered in the course
- Review the course material and synthesize concepts from across the course
9.8 Bonus Module — Large Animal Content
- Review horse, goat, cow, and chicken safe handling and husbandry
- Reinforce additional training in the only NAVTA-approved program to include large animal content
9.9 Approved Veterinary Assistant Examination Instructions
- Review the information needed to apply and sit for the Approved Veterinary Assistant Examination
The Approved Veterinary Assistant designation is a nationally recognized designation created by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.
Upon graduation from a NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program, a participant is eligible to sit for the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) examination. Veterinary assistants who successfully complete the exam receive a documentation certificate and are entitled to use the designation AVA (Approved Veterinary Assistant).
Veterinary Assistant Externship Experience
IVAP requires a 100-hour externship at a veterinary practice. Twenty-five of those hours are to be completed before reaching the sixth module of the program. The remaining 75 hours can be completed throughout the remainder of the program.
You will gain hands-on knowledge and experience during your externship while applying your skills, checklists, and knowledge to demonstrate what you have learned within IVAP.
We Offer Externship Guidance and Resources
What Veterinary Professionals Say
Hear from real hospital teams about the importance of well-trained veterinary assistants and the impact of quality education programs.
“Skills development is crucial because they can jump in and help the technician gather materials for diagnostics or other tasks to aid the DVM in their cases, and get an answer faster for the client.”
“The more we take off the DVM plate to see more clients, the more we can build the business that way. DVMs don’t need to be running labs; they need to be creating bonds with the clients.”
“Retention is the most important to me as a veterinarian and business owner. If we can keep people engaged, they will have a higher level of professional satisfaction, and we get better patient/customer service.”
Ready to Start?
Join the most comprehensive, NAVTA-approved online veterinary assistant program.
Full Payment
- NAVTA-Approved Curriculum
- Self-Paced Online Learning
- Fear Free® & CareCredit® Certificate
- Mobile App & Individualized Attention
- Private Student Community
- Externship Support & Placement
Questions? We're Here to Help
Our enrollment advisors are ready to help you choose the best payment option and answer any questions about the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about the IGNITE Veterinary Assistant Program (IVAP).
What are the requirements for IVAP?
To enroll in IVAP, you must:
- Have reliable internet access
- Own or have access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone
No prior veterinary experience is required! Our program is designed to take you from beginner to job-ready veterinary assistant.
How much does IVAP cost?
Full Payment: $999
This includes access to all course materials, Fear Free® Certification (a $299 value), and ongoing support from Dr. Jim Hurrell and our student success team.
How long does it take to complete IVAP?
IVAP is designed to be flexible and self-paced, but most students complete the program in 4–6 months.
The timeline depends on:
- Your study schedule (we recommend 5–10 hours per week)
- Your previous experience with online learning
- Time needed to complete your 100-hour externship
You have 12 months of access to all course materials, giving you plenty of time to learn at your own pace.
What job opportunities are available after completing IVAP?
IVAP graduates work in a variety of settings, including:
- Private veterinary clinics
- Animal hospitals
- Emergency and specialty practices
- Animal shelters and rescue organizations
- Zoos and wildlife facilities
- Research institutions
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 19% job growth for veterinary assistants through 2031, much faster than average. Starting salaries typically range from $25,000–$35,000 annually, with experienced assistants earning $40,000+ in many markets.
What's the difference between a veterinary assistant and a veterinary technician?
Veterinary Assistants:
- Support veterinarians and technicians with daily tasks
- Handle animal restraint, basic care, and client communication
- Complete programs like IVAP (typically 6–12 months)
- Can start working immediately after training
Veterinary Technicians:
- Require an Associate's degree (2+ years)
- Must pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)
- Perform more advanced procedures like anesthesia monitoring
- Have higher salary potential but require more education
Many veterinary assistants later pursue technician training, and IVAP provides an excellent foundation for that career path.
Is IVAP accredited and recognized by employers?
Yes! IVAP is approved by NAVTA (National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America), the leading professional organization for veterinary technicians and assistants.
This approval means:
- Your education meets industry standards
- Employers recognize and trust IVAP training
- You're eligible for the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) credential
NAVTA approval gives you confidence that your education will be respected by employers nationwide.
What support do I get as an IVAP student?
IVAP students receive comprehensive support including:
Dr. Jim Hurrell's Daily Office Hours:
- Live Q&A sessions every weekday
- Expert guidance on course material and real-world applications
Private Student Community:
- Connect with fellow students
- Share progress and get encouragement
- Access to Dr. Jim's responses to other students
Multiple Support Channels:
- Live chat with our student success team
- Email support at [email protected]
- Direct access to Dr. Jim at [email protected]
Can I work while completing IVAP?
Absolutely! IVAP is designed for working adults and busy schedules.
The program features:
- Self-paced learning — study when it works for you
- 24/7 course access — learn on your schedule
- Flexible externship arrangements — evenings and weekends available
- Mobile-friendly platform — study on your phone or tablet
Most students dedicate 5–10 hours per week to coursework and complete their studies while maintaining their current job. Many students are already working in veterinary settings and use IVAP to formalize their education and advance their careers.
What happens if I need to take a break from the program?
Life happens, and we understand! IVAP offers flexibility if you need to pause your studies:
- 12-month access period gives you plenty of time to complete coursework
- Self-paced format means you can slow down or speed up as needed
- Ongoing support from our student success team
- No penalties for taking breaks when needed
If you need additional time beyond the 12-month access period, contact our student success team. We'll work with you to find a solution that fits your circumstances.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey — our community and support team are here to help you succeed, no matter what challenges arise.
Who is IVAP for?
IVAP is designed for:
- New veterinary assistants looking for foundational training
- Experienced assistants seeking formal credentialing and skill validation
- Employers wanting to upskill staff and build consistent clinic protocols
What's different about IVAP?
IVAP stands apart from other programs because it is:
- NAVTA-approved with the only integrated official textbook
- Offers flexible online access with built-in externship assistance
- Includes nationally recognized Fear Free Certification
- Features high-engagement content and real-time instructor access
- Supported by an Independent Advisory Board of credentialed professionals guiding curriculum
How do I register for the NAVTA exam?
Once you complete IVAP, IGNITE will guide you through NAVTA exam registration:
- IGNITE submits your completion to NAVTA
- You'll receive a personal registration code
- You must register within 30 days of receiving the code
- You'll have 1 year from registration to pass the exam
Learn more: NAVTA Exam Info
Is the exam fee included?
No. The NAVTA exam fee (approximately $100) is paid directly to NAVTA when you register for your certification exam.
Why should I take this program if I'm already a VA?
Even experienced veterinary assistants benefit from IVAP because it:
- Provides structured training aligned with NAVTA standards
- Fills knowledge gaps and reinforces consistency
- Builds stronger clinical confidence
- Can help you qualify for advancement and leadership roles
- Demonstrates a higher level of professionalism and care
Can I register for the NAVTA exam before finishing IVAP?
No. You must first complete all IVAP modules and receive your official IVAP certificate. IGNITE then submits your graduation status to NAVTA, after which you'll receive a registration code to begin the process.
How long is the program?
The IVAP program includes:
- 50 hours of online coursework
- 100 hours of hands-on externship
Students have up to 1 year (365 days) to complete the program. Most students studying 2–3 hours per week graduate in about 5 months.
Still Have Questions?
Our enrollment advisors are ready to help you with any questions about the program, payment options, or getting started.
