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Veterinary technicians are employed by
veterinarians and help them provide basic medical care to animals. They
perform support duties such as feeding, walking, cleaning, and comforting
the animals. Technicians are usually in charge of taking the animals into
treatment rooms and securing restraints or holding the animal during
treatment. Under the supervision of a veterinarian, they may also perform
laboratory tests, take vital signs, take and develop X-rays, change
bandages, give injections, clean an animal’s teeth, or bathe and groom the
animal. Technicians are often in charge of maintaining records of each
animal’s reaction to medications and treatments. They are sometimes called
upon to prepare animals for surgery in addition to sterilizing the
surgical equipment.
Veterinary technicians may specialize
in certain areas such as lab animal technician or biotechnology
technician. They usually work a 40-hour week which may include evenings or
weekends. They may also be on-call for emergencies. Individuals interested
in this health care specialty should enjoy working with animals, be
compassionate and understanding, and be able to handle hectic schedules.
Work Environment:
Many veterinary technicians are
employed by veterinarians in private practice, but others are employed by
veterinary hospitals, kennels, research institutes, zoos, research
laboratories, and veterinary schools. Technicians may supervise other
veterinary personnel such as veterinary assistants.
High School Preparation:
Students interested in veterinary
technology should take high school courses in biology, chemistry, English,
dental/medical assisting, algebra, health occupations/medical professions
education, social studies, computer skills, and geometry.
College Requirements:
Individuals interested in a career as a
veterinary technician must have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
They must then complete an associate’s degree program accredited by the
American Veterinary Medical Association. Graduates may become certified by
passing a written examination offered by the Mississippi Veterinary
Medical Board.
Students interested in veterinary
technology should contact schools for information on admission and course
of study.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for veterinary
technicians will be excellent over the next decade and are expected to
increase much faster than the average of all other occupations over the
same period. The U.S. Department of Labor expects a growth of over 36% in
the number of job openings through the year 2012. Growth will continue as
pet owners become more aware of advanced care, such as preventative dental
care and intensive care, and are more willing to take advantage of such
nontraditional services. Employment opportunities will be the greatest for
individuals that obtain certification by state or national organizations.
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$25,200
Salary Range
$18,200 - $31,900
Professional Organizations:
North American Veterinary Technician
Association
PO Box 224
Battle Ground, IN 47920
Phone: (765) 742-2216
www.navta.net
American Veterinary Medical Association
1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL
60173-4360
Phone: (847) 925-8070
www.avma.org
Mississippi Veterinary Medical
Association
209 S. Lafayette Street
Starkville, MS 39759
Phone: (601) 324-9380 |
