Veterinary Technician

Veterinary technicians are the veterinary equivalent of nurses and perform many similar duties. Typically they work in a private veterinary practice, helping treat and diagnose pets and other animals. They typically perform blood tests, urine tests, and other lab-related work. They make x-rays and train and supervise other employees. In smaller veterinary practices, they will tend to work primarily with pets such as dogs and cats. Some work with smaller pets such as rodents, fish and birds. Others work in research facilities, while still others work with livestock. Generally if an animal needs to be euthanized this duty will fall on the veterinary technician.

Veterinary technicians must possess outstanding communications skills and a great deal of empathy and compassion, as they tend to have to talk about difficult situations with pet owners who are very attached to their pets. They must be team players, and may need management skills if called on to supervise.

Education and Credentials Required
Entry-level veterinary technicians must posses an associates degree in veterinary technology. Some positions require, or at least give preference to, candidates with a four-year bachelors degree in veterinary technology. The American Veterinary Medial Association (AVMA) accredits over eighty veterinary technology programs in the USA. Each state regulates veterinary technicians differently, but all states require a written, oral and practical exam, as regulated by the State Board of Veterinary Examiners or other relevant State agency. Most States use the National Veterinary Technician (NVT) test.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for veterinary technicians are expected to rise outpace the average. Doting pet owners are willing to invest in the latest animal healthcare techniques. Demand will outpace supply, as the schools are not turning out more graduates to match demand.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for veterinary technicians was $22,950. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income. Some veterinary technicians must pay for their own health benefits and retirement.