The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) identifies a person who has chosen to partake in professional tasks under the direct supervision of a veterinarian as a veterinary paraprofessional. In the early stages of your career, you may be identified as a paraprofessional if you are working in a veterinary clinic under the supervision of a veterinarian.

How do I recognise signs of stress or illness in animals?

Animals exhibit many different types of behaviours, quite often these will be normal for that particular species or individual animal. However, the sudden onset of certain behaviours can indicate an underlying issue that may need to be treated. Remember animals may not behave in an unwell manner unless very sick, so subtle changes must be noted. This is due to a 'preservation instinct' to protect themselves. Ensure any unusual observations and followed up.