How to Become a Veterinary Technician

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Veterinary Technician

What does a Veterinary Technician do?

A Veterinary Technician assists veterinarian with exams, surgeries, and first aid. Collects and documents case history and treatment details. Being a Veterinary Technician monitors vital signs and condition of animals being treated and provides nursing care. Takes X rays, EKG, Ultrasound, and performs various lab test including urinalysis and blood counts. Additionally, Veterinary Technician depending on state regulations, may administer anesthesia, injections, and perform dental prophylaxis, catheterization, and other procedures under supervision of a veterinarian. Instructs pet owners on how to administer medication and other animal care skills. Typically requires an associate degree. Depending on state, may require RVT certification. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Veterinary Technician works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. To be a Veterinary Technician typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.

People's Opinions on Veterinary Technician responsibilities

Veterinary technicians assist vets in diagnosing and treating animals in private clinics, animal hospitals, and research facilities.

10/06/2019: Fairbanks, AK

Veterinary technicians require specific training and must be licensed, as opposed to veterinary assistants, who are not able to perform tests or administer medications, among other limitations.

10/01/2019: Santa Rosa, CA

Veterinary technicians assist with the treatment of animals by taking medical backgrounds from their owners and helping to administer treatments or medications.

11/08/2019: Durham, NC

Specific responsibilities may vary depending on where a veterinary technician works.

11/28/2019: Birmingham, AL

Veterinary technicians working in research tend to earn more money those working in offices serving family pets.

12/26/2019: Saginaw, MI
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Veterinary Technician

Best tips for those who want to become a Veterinary Technician

Here are some tips to become a Veterinary Technician.

People's Opinions on best tips

Always perform a preanesthetic check.

11/05/2019: Kansas City, KS

Prepare all monitoring equipment before the procedure.

12/27/2019: Trenton, NJ

Do not be afraid to preoxygenate.

12/23/2019: Allentown, PA

Use injectable anesthetic agents intraoperatively.

12/15/2019: Vallejo, CA

Many places will accept volunteers or allow you to shadow them in a hospital setting.

01/02/2020: Providence, RI
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Veterinary Technician

Best colleges and universities for Veterinary Technician

  • Butler University
  • Carroll College
  • High Point University
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College
  • Rollins College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Veterinary Technician

Is being a Veterinary Technician Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

Depending on your practice’s schedule, you may be wrapping up with patients at a veterinary clinic or hospital.

10/08/2019: Lowell, MA

Leonard Marino, left, a retired pediatrician, went back to school for training as a veterinary technician, and now assists his son, veterinarian Dominic Marino, right, at Long Island Veterinary Specialists in Plainview.

10/22/2019: Jacksonville, FL

There the technician may listen and make notes while you describe the reason for your pet's visit.

12/03/2019: Benton Harbor, MI

During the procedure your pet's heart rate and respiratory rate will be closely monitored by the veterinary technician to ensure the patient's safety during this time.

10/13/2019: Indianapolis, IN

The veterinary technician in most hospitals will be able to discuss with you the causes of bad breath and ways to treat the problem.

10/21/2019: Boise, ID
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Veterinary Technician

What skills do you need to be a Veterinary Technician?

There are many skills required to succeed in this role, which vary in importance depending on the exact role and department size.  The daily workload for this job will be highly dependant on these skills: Clinical Laboratory Testing, Laboratory Equipment Operation, Medical Record Keeping, Monitoring Vital Signs, Patient and Care Giver Education, Administer Medication.  By growing your skills to reflect the ones mentioned, you are more likely to succeed in this role, and move forward to a more senior position.

People's Opinions on Veterinary Technician skills

But before you consider a veterinary technician degree, ask yourself if you have any of these necessary skills required for this particular profession.

10/29/2019: Ann Arbor, MI

Knowledgeable of veterinary medications, dosages and titrations.

11/13/2019: Honolulu, HI

These extraordinarily versatile and skilled veterinary technicians provide a valued service to physicians, pets and their owners.

10/03/2019: Amarillo, TX

Certified Veterinary Technician with 4 years of experience working in the best animal care clinics seeks the position of Veterinary Technician at Bakersfield Animal Hospital.

12/12/2019: Benton Harbor, MI

In your Veterinary Technician skills list, you must show that you received proper training.

11/01/2019: New Suffolk, NY
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Step 6: View average salary for Veterinary Technician

How much does a Veterinary Technician make?

The average salary range for a Veterinary Technician is from $33,147 to $46,797. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Veterinary Technician
$33,147 to $46,797

Step 7: Find relevant Veterinary Technician jobs, and apply.

Looking for Veterinary Technician jobs?

Here are some Veterinary Technician jobs in the United States.

Search Veterinary Technician Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Veterinary Technician