What does it take to become a Veterinary Technician???

Veterinary Technicians come from various backgrounds and are involved in many aspects of medicine and other professions. Our training is very unique although similar to a Registered Nurse, not quite the same. The profession of Vet Techs vary by state and each one is so different on requirements, credentials, training, and the procedures/responsibilities. Also similar to an RN, Veterinary Technicians can complete a two year program or a four year bachelor program. After completion of the program (depending upon the state), a national board exam is take which is usually a written exam covering soo many species and every aspect of medicine from Radiology, Anesthesia, Parasites, Preventative medicine, Surgery, Exotic animals, Laws and Regulations, Pharmaceuticals, Procedures and the list goes on. After passing the board exam or required test for the state a license is issued and the Technician is considered Licensed, Registered, or Certified depending once again on the state they practice in.

What does the schooling involve? I personally did the two year program and would say the process is pretty tough. We have to learn several species and sooo much just in two years after many practical exams, written tests, verbal etc we then have to take the national exam (in VA) that created much anxiety for me and all of my classmates. In the middle of the program we also have to complete an externship at a hospital where we get more hands on training in the "real world." I remember spending a lot of time studying of course but also time in the barn, in the kennels, out on the farms in the area, in labs, lecture halls and classmates apartments studying all the time. The four year programs are similar but a little more spread out and may have training in depth of certain areas than areas. Most technologist are employed in teaching, or advanced laboratories.

Opportunities for Vet Techs... Just like Veterinarians, many opportunities exist due to our unique training and  skills. Of course the most common is a hospital but we also exist in research, reference labs, teaching, government agencies (local and federal), food inspection, corporate sales, pharmaceuticals, shelters, zoos, and wildlife facilities.

At the end of the day, we are all here for one reason and that is to aid animals and society by alleviating pain, suffering and promote public health.