I am against allowing someone that is trained to perform receptionist functions to perform a difficult procedure, such as placing a catheter, on my pet.

Allowing someone that is not licensed to perform this procedure is just a cost cutting measure and not in the best interest of the patient. 

To become a veterinary assistant in Virginia, there are no educational requirements that are state mandated. However, the majority of vet assistants have earned at least a high school diploma or GED equivalency.

According to Tidewater Community College, if one were to get a veterinary assistant certification, the person would be certified to do the following:

Veterinary Assistants perform receptionist functions, assist in filling prescriptions, keep exam rooms and kennels cleaned and prepped, set up lab work, assist with inventory, update medical records, assist with nursing care, assist with surgical preparation and procedure, assist with radiography, interact with clients, etc. The college has achieved approval of its program by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).

This is an excerpt from a document originating from BluePearl Veterinary Partners:

PLACEMENT OF CENTRAL & URINARY LINES Amy Newfield, CVT, VTS (ECC) BluePearl Veterinary Partners Waltham, MA 01568

URINARY LINES Male Dog Urinary Catheter...Despite being the easiest of the placements, often times this relatively easy procedure is rushed through leading to urinary tract infections or injury.

Female Dog Urinary Catheter Blind Placement ... Due to the difficult nature of the procedure temporary urinary catheters to obtain urine or drain bladders are not usually performed... Regardless of skill it may not be possible to place a urinary catheter in some female dogs. It’s a hard skill to perform.

Why would we allow someone who is not licensed to do this?