Veterinary Technician

Overview:

Veterinary Technicians are responsible for the well-being of animals. They work hand-in-hand with veterinarians providing the essential medical procedures to ensure that animals are healthy.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Provide health care for pets, livestock, zoo, sporting and or laboratory animals
• Examine animals to determine nature of illness or injury
• Perform laboratory tests such as urinalysis and blood counts
• Expose and develop x rays and radiographs
• Treat injuries for pets and or farm animals
• Assist veterinarian in treatments and surgeries
• Advise animal owners of animal care and feeding
• Responsible for ensuring sanitary measures before, during and after all procedures
• Operate medical equipment
• Stock and maintain medicines and supplies
• Euthanize animals when necessary
• Provide prevention care to maintain animal health
• Communicate with the veterinarian about the progress of animal treatments and recovery
• Document for each specific animal treated

What education and training is required?

An associate’s degree in veterinary technology or animal science, more research based positions may require a bachelor’s degree.

To pursue a career as a Veterinary Technician:

The following high school courses are recommended:agricultural education, a focus on sciences such as animal science and biology, chemistry, physical science, and mathematics.

Typical Employers: 

Veterinary clinics, university research farms, diagnostic laboratories, zoos, animal control facilities and wildlife preserves.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

The future outlook for Veterinary Technicians is expected to be excellent.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• American Veterinary Medical Association
• American Association of Bovine Practitioners
• American Association for Laboratory Animal Science
• North American Veterinary Technician Association