- Location: Reno, Nevada
- Program Type: Adult Education with some online classes
- Instructors: Julie McMahon LVT, VTS (Dentistry); Kim Jonah, LVT; Erica Wood, LVT; Kellie Carter, MS, LVT; Mackenzie Lange, BS, LVT
In 2023, the NAVTA Approved Veterinary Assistant Committee approved of the VA program at Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno, NV. Truckee Meadows CC already had an AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technology program, but because of demand for entry level Veterinary Assistants, the college moved forward with a one-year program leading to a certificate as a Veterinary Assistant.
Julie McMahon, LVT is the Program Director for both the Veterinary Nursing and Veterinary Assistant programs. “We are very proud of our VA program…it stands out because it combines hands-on, interactive learning with real-world experience.” The TMCC VA students participate in laboratory experiences at a local animal shelter assisting with kennel cleaning, animal socialization, bathing, grooming, and nail trims—all designed to help animals become more adoptable. At the shelter, the students also participate as restrainers during vaccinations, microchipping, and deworming procedures.
The VA students are fortunate to be able to learn and practice in the TMCC Veterinary Nursing facilities complete with a surgical unit and all equipment, supplies, and instruments for VA students to practice the VA level skills of nursing and surgical assistantship. Students are also exposed to laboratory skills and imaging experiences.
The program is growing and will be adding additional cohorts in the coming years. The faculty often visit local secondary schools and participate in college and career fairs. High school students who are interested in Veterinary Medical careers are encouraged to apply to both programs at Truckee Meadows.
Classroom lessons are sometimes unique. The VA students experience “walking through the heart as a blood cell” where students move through a heart diagram to learn blood flow and oxygenation in the lungs. In another lesson, students participate in “walking through the ruminant stomach as feed” to better understand ruminant digestion. Other activities include simulated veterinary appointments where students practice checking in patients, obtaining histories in the exam room, assisting the technicians and veterinarians in clinical procedures, and discharging patients. These exercises are intended to help students build confidence in their interactions with pet owners.
To learn the important delineation between the positions of Veterinary Assistant and Credentialed Veterinary Technician, the students complete an assignment reviewing the Nevada State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners Practice Act where students learn which tasks are allowed for Veterinary Assistants and which are within the scope of the Veterinary Technician. The Nevada Practice Act clearly delineates the allowable tasks for each position and student interaction ensures students clearly understand their professional boundaries.
The current TMCC faculty has several veterinarians and five Licensed Veterinary Technicians. Kim Jonah, LVT, recalls a VA student who learned the material, but performed poorly on exams because of severe test anxiety. She received support from the college’s Disability Resource Center and the VA instructors; she was able to overcome her challenges, graduated from the program and is currently working and thriving at a Reno Veterinary clinic. “Students gain practical skills and build confidence…With a growing enrollment and innovative teaching methods, our program prepares students to thrive as skilled, compassionate Veterinary Assistants.”
AVA Membership Tier
In 2026, NAVTA introduced a new AVA membership tier designed to support veterinary assistants through professional development, continuing education opportunities, recognition, and community. The membership tier was created to help veterinary assistants strengthen their connection to the profession while gaining access to resources that support career growth and long-term success. Those interested in joining can learn more at https://navta.net/membership.