If you’re passionate about animals and aspire to work in veterinary care, becoming a vet tech could be the ideal career path for you. Veterinary technicians play an essential role in animal health, assisting vets with procedures, diagnoses, and overall care. There are many steps that need to be considered, including education, certification, potential job opportunities, and exploring the related role of a veterinary assistant.

What Are the Duties of a Veterinary Technician?

Vet techs handle a wide array of responsibilities that support veterinarians in providing excellent care. These include:

• Assisting during surgical procedures
• Performing lab tests and diagnostic work
• Administering treatments, medications, and vaccinations
• Educating pet owners about animal care and wellness
• Monitoring recovery after surgeries and treatments

Vet techs also work with advanced diagnostic tools such as ultrasound and X-ray machines. They may help veterinarians during complex procedures or serve as the first point of contact for pet owners seeking guidance.

Additionally, vet techs must maintain accurate medical records, which ensures consistency and quality in care. In some clinics, they may even train and oversee veterinary assistants.

Why Pursue a Career as a Vet Tech?

Choosing a career as a veterinary technician offers numerous benefits for those who love animals. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

• Expanding Job Market: The need for vet techs is expected to grow by 20% in the coming years.
• Diverse Workplaces: Vet techs can find roles in clinics, animal hospitals, research labs, zoos, or even wildlife rehabilitation centers.
• Personal Fulfillment: Helping animals recover and educating pet owners brings immense satisfaction.

Some vet techs also specialize in exotic animals or farm animals, adding even more variety to their career paths. Specialized roles may include working with reptiles, birds, or marine life.

Steps on How to Become a Vet Tech

1. Research Veterinary Technician Programs

Begin by researching accredited vet tech programs. Ensure the program is approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). These programs generally take two years and result in an Associate of Science (A.S.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.

When evaluating options, take into account:

• Tuition and financial aid
• Availability of hands-on training
• Program reviews and graduate success rates

When choosing the best vet tech schools, consider factors like accreditation, hands-on training opportunities, faculty expertise, and job placement rates. Here’s a list of some top vet tech schools and what makes them stand out:

2. Top Vet Tech Schools

Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana)

Purdue offers a highly regarded Veterinary Technology Program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Students benefit from advanced labs, small class sizes, and access to the university’s veterinary hospital. Purdue’s program includes a four-year Bachelor of Science degree, providing an edge for those seeking specialized roles or management positions in veterinary medicine.

Colorado State University (Fort Collins, Colorado)

Colorado State is renowned for its veterinary school, and its vet tech program offers cutting-edge facilities and comprehensive coursework. Students gain hands-on experience with a variety of animals, including small pets, livestock, and exotic species. The school’s partnerships with local animal care facilities enhance internship opportunities.

University of New Hampshire (Durham, New Hampshire)

UNH offers an AVMA-accredited associate degree in Veterinary Technology. What sets this program apart is its integration with the university’s working farm and equine facilities, providing students with diverse, hands-on learning experiences. The program emphasizes small class sizes and personalized instruction.

Cedar Valley College (Lancaster, Texas)

Part of the Dallas College system, Cedar Valley College is known for its online veterinary technology program, making it a great choice for students balancing work and school. The program includes clinical experiences in the student’s local area, ensuring practical skill development. It is also one of the most affordable accredited options.

St. Petersburg College (St. Petersburg, Florida)

St. Petersburg College offers both associate and bachelor’s degree programs in Veterinary Technology, accredited by the AVMA. The school provides flexible online and in-person options, making it ideal for students with various learning preferences. With a focus on career readiness, graduates often secure jobs quickly after completing the program.

Cornell University (Ithaca, New York)

Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine offers continuing education for vet techs and a strong pre-veterinary program. While not a traditional vet tech school, its workshops and certifications are valuable for technicians looking to advance their skills or specialize in areas like surgery or anesthesia.

What to Consider When Choosing a Vet Tech School

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is AVMA-accredited for eligibility to take the VTNE exam.
• Hands-on Training: Look for schools with clinical rotations, internships, or access to animal care facilities.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Consider tuition fees and available scholarships or grants.
• Flexibility: Online programs can be a good fit for working students or those with busy schedules.
• Graduate Success: Check job placement rates and alumni testimonials.

3. Enroll in an Accredited Program

After selecting a program, enroll and prepare for a combination of classroom learning and practical coursework. Expect classes in:

• Animal anatomy and physiology
• Pharmacology and veterinary nursing techniques
• Diagnostic imaging and radiology
• Clinical lab procedures

Hands-on training through clinical rotations or internships is a cornerstone of most programs, ensuring students gain real-world experience before graduation. Internships provide students with opportunities to work directly under veterinarians and learn from seasoned professionals.

4. Gain Practical Experience

Internships or externships at veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or hospitals during your studies help you build practical skills and expand your professional network. This experience also prepares you for the fast-paced nature of veterinary work. Consider volunteering at shelters to deepen your exposure to animal care.

5. Pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)

Graduates must pass the VTNE to qualify as vet techs. This test evaluates your knowledge in areas such as:

• Anesthesia and patient care
• Laboratory diagnostics
• Veterinary pharmacology

The VTNE is a comprehensive exam, and most states require a passing score for licensure or certification. Preparation courses and study guides are widely available to help candidates succeed.

6. Obtain State Certification or Licensure

Each state has unique certification or licensing standards for vet techs. Typically, you’ll need:

• A degree from an accredited program
• A passing VTNE result
• Completion of continuing education to maintain credentials

Consult your state’s veterinary board or the NAVTA for specific guidelines. Some states may also have additional exams or requirements beyond the VTNE.

7. Explore Specializations

Certified vet techs can enhance their careers by specializing in areas such as:

• Dentistry: Focusing on oral hygiene and preventative care
• Surgical Assisting: Providing expertise during advanced surgical cases
• Critical Care: Managing emergency and complex medical cases
• Equine Care: Working exclusively with horses in clinics or farms

Specializations often require additional training and certifications from organizations. Specialized credentials may also lead to higher salaries and opportunities to work in unique settings.

8. Apply for Vet Tech Roles

With your qualifications in hand, start applying for vet tech positions. Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight:

• Educational achievements
• Internship and clinical experience
• Specialized skills and certifications

Explore job opportunities on platforms like Indeed. Networking with professionals and joining industry associations can also open doors to exciting opportunities.

What’s the Time Commitment for Becoming a Vet Tech?

Completing the process to become a vet tech typically takes two to three years. This includes:

• Two years for an associate’s degree
• Time to prepare for licensing exams and certification

Accelerated programs or prior experience may shorten this timeline for motivated students. Online programs offer flexibility for those balancing other commitments.

Should You Consider Becoming a Veterinary Assistant?

If becoming a vet tech feels like too large a commitment, starting as a veterinary assistant might be a great alternative. Here’s how the roles differ:

• Education Requirements: Vet assistants typically require only a high school diploma or GED, while vet techs need an associate’s degree.
• Responsibilities: Vet assistants handle basic tasks like cleaning cages, feeding animals, and assisting with appointments. Vet techs perform medical tasks like administering medications and assisting in surgeries.
• Certification: Most vet assistant positions do not require certification, although programs can enhance job prospects.

Veterinary assistants often work under the supervision of both veterinarians and vet techs, making it an excellent role for gaining hands-on experience. Many vet assistants eventually pursue further education to become vet techs, leveraging their experience to excel in advanced roles.

Exploring a Career as a Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary assistants play a crucial role in clinics and hospitals by providing essential support. Their duties often include:

• Cleaning and sanitizing equipment
• Managing appointments and patient records
• Assisting with feeding, grooming, and exercise for animals

While the role is less medical than that of a vet tech, it provides invaluable exposure to veterinary environments. Programs like AVA certification can further validate your skills and improve your employability.

Keys to Thriving as a Vet Tech

• Stay Current: Attend workshops and pursue additional certifications.
• Network Effectively: Build relationships with veterinarians and peers to discover opportunities.
• Be Compassionate: Animals and their owners depend on your empathy and understanding during challenging times.
• Communicate Clearly: Explaining treatment plans and instructions to pet owners is a critical part of the job.

Conclusion: Starting Your Career as a Vet Tech

Now that you understand the steps to becoming a vet tech, it’s time to take action. By completing the right education and earning certification, you’ll be ready for a rewarding career helping animals and their families. Dedication and a passion for animal care will take you far in this fulfilling field.