Veterinary technicians are animal nurses (and much more). In addition to their nursing duties, they act as patient advocates, phlebotomists, radiology technicians, laboratory technicians, anesthesia technicians, and surgery technicians. Except tasks legally restricted to veterinarians, such as diagnosing disease conditions, performing surgery, prescribing medications, and prognosing medical outcomes, veterinary technicians are trained to do everything a veterinary hospital requires to run smoothly.
Veterinary technicians must receive formal training in the knowledge and skills required to handle their many daily responsibilities by graduating from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited college with an associate’s degree in veterinary technology.
After completing an 18- to 36-month course, veterinary technicians also must pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to obtain a license. Although veterinary clinics might employ veterinary assistants to provide some patient care, many tasks are legally restricted to veterinary technicians who have the education and skills to provide a higher level of care.
Generally speaking, your pet’s veterinary technician has more face time with your pet during the day than the veterinarian. They not only act as a medical care provider but also a stand in owner making sure that your pet get love, snacks, and beds (as appropriate…I’m looking at the lab that is going to eat everything put in their cage!).
The bottom line is that the veterinary technicians that care are essential for the care provided to your pet. Without them we would not be able to see many appointments or do the amount of surgeries that we do. This month if there is a veterinary technician that has take good care of your pet thank them, appreciate them, and maybe bring them some snacks! They are in this profession because it is a calling and they love it.
