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Veterinary Technicians primarily function as professional technical support to veterinarians, biomedical researchers, and other scientists. Through the 1950s, veterinarians trained their own employees, delegating routine tasks and procedures as they saw fit. These on-the-job trained individuals were designated animal assistants, animal attendants, and veterinary assistants and were trained to meet the needs of an individual practice. If people wanted to move to another practice, they would have to start over again being trained in the ways of the new practice.

To meet the technical demands of an expanding veterinary profession and a more mobile population, formal academic programs started appearing in the 1960s. Today there are over 100 veterinary technology programs in the United States that educate veterinary technicians. In order to maintain a standard of excellence these programs are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The course of study in these programs entails at least two academic years, leading to an Associate of Science or equivalent degree with four-year Bachelor of Science degrees available at some institutions. During high school, would-be veterinary technicians are encouraged to enroll in college preparatory courses in science, math and English.

In today's fast-paced, high-tech world, veterinarians and other scientists must maintain high standards of animal care. The veterinary technician can be an enormous help. The technician possesses the skills to handle many aspects of patient care, as well as many laboratory procedures.

Technical Duties

Examples of the areas of responsibility qualified veterinary technicians are educated to assume include:

• Physical Examination and Patient History
• Client Education
• Caring for the Hospitalized Patient
• Administration of Medication and Vaccines
• Clinical Laboratory Procedures
• Dental Prophylaxis
• Radiology
• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Assisting
• Office/ Hospital Management
• Biomedical Research

In addition to many of the above areas of responsibility, veterinary technicians in research may also: supervise the operation of research colonies and facilities assist in the design and implementation of research projects.

Career Opportunities

The first job for about 85% of graduate veterinary technicians is in a private veterinary practice, with companion animal practice leading the list. However, the demand for veterinary technicians in other fields is rapidly growing. Opportunities exist in the following areas:

• Teaching
• Military Service
• Humane Societies
• Herd Health Managers
• Industry
• Biomedical Research
• Diagnostic Laboratories
• Zoo/Wildlife Medicine
• Veterinary Supply Sales

A Regulated Profession

In approximately 40 states and provinces, veterinary technicians are certified, registered, or licensed. Candidates are tested for competency through an examination which may include oral, written, and practical portions. This process is regulated by a State Board of Veterinary Examiners, or the appropriate state agency. State Regulations for Veterinary Technician Registration. Practice acts, legislated by states and provinces, often define the responsibilities of the veterinary technician. These responsibilities and duties are dependent in part on the type of employment the individual chooses.

Want to know more?

Veterinary technology offers a challenging career in a relatively new health care profession for mature and motivated individuals. If you are a self starter who likes to work with people and animals, then a career as a veterinary technician may be for you! Still have questions?  Click here for answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

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