Vet Tech Programs

Since the beginning of the new millennium, the technological advances in the field of veterinary medicine have been rapid and overwhelming, resulting in more competent and reliable delivery of care to pets and other animals. Veterinarians need the knowledge and skills of veterinary technologists or technicians to assist them provide the increasing demand of pet owners or animal caretakers for the highest quality of veterinary care. A veterinary technologist, also called a vet tech, is a vital member of the veterinary health care team. He does not only play a part in encouraging and providing animal care but he also has a role to protect the health of humans who are in close and frequent contact with animals.

Mainly, the vet technologist assists and works closely with the veterinarian in private clinics or hospitals by providing preventive, promotive and rehabilitative animal care, the same way that nurses help out physicians in providing continuous patient care. Under the veterinarian's supervision, the vet tech collects urine, tissue and blood samples, performs various laboratory examinations, such as blood counts, and complete diagnostic procedures, like radiographic tests, in order to assist the veterinarian make an accurate diagnosis. They can perform dental prophylaxes, provide patient care before and after surgeries, prepare surgical tools and equipment, monitor anesthesia and assist veterinarian during the surgical procedure itself. Veterinary technologists are responsible in providing long-term animal care by giving out appropriate medical health advices and educating animal owners on good animal health management. It is apparent that vet techs have many duties and responsibilities in animal care but they are not allowed to make clinical diagnoses and prescribe medications.

Veterinary technologists can also work in clinical research facilities under the supervision of veterinarians, physicians and laboratory technologists. In addition to their tasks in veterinary clinics or hospitals, vet techs assist in the implementation of research projects by providing the most humane care in animal handling. They administer medications prescribed by veterinarians, prepare laboratory samples and record significant data.

To be a successful veterinary technologist, proper education and training should be obtained by enrolling in colleges that offer vet tech programs accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association or AVMA. Vet tech schools offer two types of degree programs, which should be completed before one can actually practice this profession: a 2-year program for an associate degree and a 4-year vet tech program for a baccalaureate degree. A high school diploma or an equivalent certificate is usually required by most vet tech schools to be eligible for the associate or bachelor degree in animal technology. In both programs, live animals are used in both laboratory and clinical settings. Most vet tech classes in an associate degree programs involve the general subjects and management of animals through clinical classes. In vet tech colleges that offer 4-year baccalaureate programs, the first year focuses on the general education courses. In its second through the third year, an associate degree obtained once the credentials have been completed. On the fourth year, advanced vet tech courses, clinical rotations and externship hours should be completed before a BS degree is obtained. In certain cases, individuals without a degree in veterinary technology can work as vet techs but the career opportunities are limited. Thus, it is recommended to complete an associate or a baccalaureate degree in veterinary technology for career advancements.