April 17, 2026 (Branchburg, NJ): The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) is proud to recognize Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) Week, taking place May 17–23, 2026. This annual celebration highlights the important role veterinary assistants play in patient care, client service, and the daily function of veterinary teams.
This year’s theme, “The Veterinary Health Care Team is Not Complete Without Veterinary Assistants,” emphasizes the vital contributions veterinary assistants make across the profession. Throughout AVA Week, NAVTA will spotlight standout approved veterinary assistant programs, recognize the impact veterinary assistants make every day in practice, and encourage the veterinary community to celebrate the assistants who help keep their teams running.
New This Year: 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.
“Veterinary assistants are a critical part of the veterinary health care team,” said Dennis Lopez, M.Ed., LVT, FVTE, Chair of NAVTA’s AVA Committee. “AVA Week is an opportunity to celebrate their dedication, recognize the programs helping prepare the next generation, and encourage the profession to acknowledge the important role veterinary assistants play every day.”
NAVTA developed the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) designation to help elevate and standardize veterinary assistant education. Today, more than 65 NAVTA-approved programs across the United States and Canada prepare students for AVA designation through high schools, adult education centers, colleges, and online learning. More than 2,500 AVAs are currently practicing across North America.
Veterinary assistants perform essential tasks such as animal restraint, exam and procedure support, surgical preparation, hospital maintenance, and client communication. Their work helps ensure efficient operations, compassionate patient care, and a positive experience for both clients and veterinary teams.
During AVA Week, NAVTA invites AVAs, educators, students, veterinary professionals, and the broader veterinary community to celebrate the veterinary assistants who make a difference every day. Whether through exceptional patient care, teamwork, compassion, or the behind-the-scenes work that keeps practices running, supporters are encouraged to share stories, photos, and shout-outs on social media throughout the week using #AVAWeek2026 and #EssentialAVAs.
For more information about the AVA program, visit:
https://navta.net/veterinary-assistants-program/
To learn more about AVA membership or join, visit:
https://navta.net/membership