Veterinary Technician
Veterinary technicians work alongside a veterinarian to care for animals and assist in procedures such as physical exams, dental procedures, spaying and neutering, immunizations, diagnosis, treatments and euthanasia. They communicate with the veterinarian about the progress of animal treatments and recovery and document for each specific animal treated. A veterinary technician can work with a variety of animals depending on the specialty including small animal, large animal, laboratory animals and exotics.
Future Job Market
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Fair
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Good
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Excellent
Typical Employers:
Veterinary technicians are typically employed by veterinary clinics, university research farms, diagnostic laboratories, zoos, animal control facilities and wildlife preserves.
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
Salary:
$47,000?
FFA Connections:
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Assist a veterinarian in the examination of animals to determine nature of illness or injury and occasionally conduct these examinations without supervision
- Perform laboratory tests such as urinalysis and blood counts
- Communicate with secondary laboratory to complete specialized testing
- Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of industry standards and equipment such as radiographs, ultrasonography, blood analysis and other laboratory machines
- Assist a veterinarian in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries for pets and farm animals and occasionally diagnose and treat without supervision
- Assist veterinarian in treatments and surgeries and maintain proper reporting and data collection of all procedures
- Maintain and advise animal owners of recent medication research in animal care and feeding
- Be responsible for ensuring sanitary measures before, during and after all procedures
- 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
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- mathematics
- focus on sciences such as animal science and biology, veterinary science, chemistry and physical science
Education/Training Required:
An associate degree in veterinary technology or animal science; more research-based positions may require a bachelor’s degree.
