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Overview
Vet tech is short for veterinary technician. These people are trained in the care and handling of animals so that they can assist veterinarians and animal researchers. While not as highly skilled as veterinarians, vet techs have college degrees as well as clinical training. In some states, they must also pass a credentialing examination before they can be certified.
Function
Licensed veterinarians who are in private practice often hire veterinary technicians to assist them. The vet tech usually takes the pet's case history before the animal is examined by the doctor. During the appointment they help with the nursing care of the animals in whatever ways the doctor needs. They are usually the ones who collect blood, urine and stool specimens from the animals. Then they handle many veterinary laboratory procedures. They prepare animals for surgery and help with dental procedures. Sometimes vet techs will also help to educate the pet owners about how to care for their animals.
Considerations
While vet techs are allowed by law to do all of these activities under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, there are certain things that it is illegal for them to do. Vet techs cannot prescribe medications. They cannot diagnose conditions or diseases and they are not allowed to do surgery on the animals.
Significance
In addition to working in veterinary clinics and private practices, vet techs also find jobs in biomedical research laboratories which are involved in animal research. The job of the vet tech in these laboratories is to care for the laboratory animals such as the rats that are used in preliminary drug trials. They may also assist the researchers in gathering the data that they need for their studies. These vet techs help to ensure that laboratory animals are treated as humanely as possible.
Training
Vet techs usually attend schools that have been accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. While some training programs lead to associates degrees, vet techs who have earned a bachelor's degree make higher salaries. In addition to the academic courses on the care and handling of animals, their life processes, and correct laboratory procedures and techniques, vet tech training also involves clinical practicums. While the academic coursework can be completed through online distance learning coursework, the clinical practicum must be done under the supervision of professional veterinarians.
Expert Insight
Vet techs can join the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America. This organization promotes high standards for the profession as well as continuing education for its members. It also publishes "The NAVTA Journal." Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, the organization has been in operation since 1981.
