6 Steps to Become a Veterinary Technician

Veterinary technicians are essential to animal healthcare teams. Acting as the nurses of the veterinary world, they support veterinarians in ensuring the well-being and medical care of animals.

The path to becoming a veterinary technician involves dedicated education, certification, and a passion for animal care. This article outlines the important steps aspiring veterinary technicians must follow to turn their love for animals into a rewarding career.

What Is a Veterinary Technician

A veterinary technician serves as a veterinarian's right hand. In this role, individuals perform various tasks, such as conducting lab tests, assisting with surgeries, and caring for animals.

Trained veterinary technicians handle a wide range of duties, from technical medical tasks to communicating with pet owners. Their work is crucial in diagnosing illnesses, administering treatments, and providing routine care.

The job requires not only a deep understanding of animal science but also strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with pet owners and veterinary staff.

Step 1: High School Education

The journey to becoming a veterinary technician begins with a strong foundation in high school education. Aspiring veterinary technicians should focus on courses in biology, mathematics, chemistry, and, if available, animal science.

These classes provide the fundamental knowledge necessary for advanced education in veterinary technology.

Additionally, volunteering at animal shelters or veterinary clinics can offer invaluable hands-on experience and a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities of the field.

Step 2: Attend an Accredited Program

After high school, the next step is to attend a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

These programs typically award an Associate of Science in veterinary technology and cover coursework in animal anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.

Institutions such as the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine or the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician Program offer comprehensive courses designed to fulfill the educational requirements.

Practical experience is a cornerstone of these programs, with clinical rotations allowing students to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. It is essential for students to research programs thoroughly to ensure they meet the requirements for certification.

Step 3: Pass the VTNE

Graduating from an accredited program qualifies students to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). This rigorous test assesses the knowledge required to perform as a veterinary technician effectively.

The exam covers topics such as animal care, diagnostic imaging, and anesthesia. A passing score on the VTNE is mandatory for proceeding in most states. Therefore, thorough preparation using study guides and practice tests is highly recommended.

Step 4: Obtain Licensure

The final step is obtaining licensure, which is required to practice as a veterinary technician in most states. The specifics of licensure vary by state but generally include passing the VTNE and submitting an application to the state's veterinary board.

Some states may have additional requirements, such as a background check or continuing education. Licensure ensures that veterinary technicians maintain a standard of professional and ethical practice in their work with animals.

Step 5: Start Your Career

Once licensed, a veterinary technician can begin their career. Veterinary technician employment opportunities are vast, ranging from small private practices to large animal hospitals or research facilities.

Vet techs should create a compelling resume highlighting their education, licensure, and any practical experience, such as internships or volunteer work.

Networking with professionals in the field through job fairs and veterinary associations can open doors to potential job leads.

Step 6: Renew Credentials and Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements

Veterinary technicians must renew their credentials periodically, which usually involves continuing education (CE). The specific CE requirements can vary by state but are essential for staying current with veterinary practices and technologies.

Vet techs can fulfill these requirements through workshops, seminars, online courses, or college classes.

Skills for Vet Techs

A skilled veterinary technician is adept in both technical and soft skills. They must have a strong grasp of veterinary medicine, including pharmacology, radiography, and surgical assistance.

Equally important are interpersonal skills, as vet techs communicate with pet owners, comfort animals, and collaborate with the veterinary team. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work under pressure are also critical.

What's the Difference Between a Vet Tech and a Vet Assistant?

A vet tech, or veterinary technician, has a more advanced role than a vet assistant. Vet techs have formal education and are required to pass a national exam and obtain licensure.

Their duties often include performing medical tests and assisting with surgeries under a veterinarian's supervision.

Vet assistants do not need formal education or licensure and their role is to provide basic care like feeding and bathing, as well as cleaning cages and assisting the vet techs and veterinarians.

The key difference lies in the level of responsibility and the technical complexity of the tasks they are qualified to perform.

Start Becoming a Veterinary Technician

If you want to work as a veterinary technician, you need to dedicate yourself to obtaining the required training and credentials. Those who diligently adhere to these guidelines will experience the satisfaction of assisting animals and their owners.