Fresh Profile: Veterinary Technician Jobs

Published on 2008-03-25

Veterinary technicians are often referred to as the nurses of the veterinary world, but even this description fails to capture the full range of procedures that they perform. Vet techs assist with physical and dental procedures, immunization, spaying and neutering, birthing and euthanasia. They also perform a variety of administrative and clinical procedures, including surgery preparation, x-ray development, stocking of medicines and supplies, and management of case histories. At private clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities, and wildlife rehabilitation centers, veterinary technician jobs are essential to the health and wellbeing of our nation's animal population.

Anyone interested in veterinary nursing jobs will quickly notice that there are three commonly used job titles: veterinary technologist, veterinary technician and veterinary assistant. Unlike the first two positions, veterinary assistant jobs do not require any sort of formal training. Veterinary assistants typically receive on-the-job training alongside veterinarians and vet techs.

To become a veterinary technician, one must receive a two-year degree from an AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) accredited institution; veterinary technologists require a four-year degree. A state exam must also be passed in order to be registered, licensed or certified (the term varies by state). There are three different levels of certification for veterinary jobs as a technician or technologist:

• Animal Laboratory Assistant Technician (ALAT)
• Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT)
• Laboratory Animal Technologist (LAT)

A veterinary career as a technician requires more than an education. Applicants must have a genuine love for animals and be able to endure some of the more unpleasant aspects of the job, such as euthanasia of old or terminally ill pets. A natural interest in science or medicine is also important.

The number of new vet tech jobs is expected to grow dramatically in the coming years as pet ownership rises and more people take advantage of pet health insurance. Wages for vet techs vary a great deal depending on experience, education and the type of facility, but the typical range is from $9 to $20 an hour.

When you're looking for veterinary careers as a technician or assistant, make Fresho.com your first stop. Our fast, free and effective search tools make your job search easy, whether you're in New York, California or somewhere in between.