If you’re thinking about becoming a vet tech, you might be wondering if it’s the right career path for you. Here are a few things to consider that may help you make your decision.
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What is a Vet Tech?
A vet tech is a professional who helps veterinarians in the care of animals. They are responsible for animal health and welfare, and they may also conduct laboratory tests, administer medications, and provide nursing care. If you love animals and are interested in a career in the medical field, then you may be wondering if you should be a vet tech.
Job Description
Vet techs work in a variety of settings, including animal shelters, zoos, kennels, and private veterinary practices. They typically assist veterinarians with routine care, such as taking X-rays and administering vaccinations, as well as more complex procedures, such as setting fractures and performing dental work.
Vet techs must be able to restrain animals during examinations and procedures, which may require some physical strength and agility. They also need to be able to handle animals that are injured or sick, which can be emotionally challenging. In addition to working with animals, vet techs also interact with pet owners on a daily basis. Therefore, it is important that they have excellent communication skills and are able to deal with people who may be upset or distraught.
If you are interested in becoming a vet tech, you will need to complete a 2-year Associates degree in Veterinary Technology from an accredited program. You will also need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), which is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). Once you have passed the VTNE, you will be eligible for licensure in your state.
Salary
Vet techs are among the lowest-paid working professionals in the United States. The median annual salary for a vet tech was just $32,490 in May 2017, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That’s more than $10,000 below the median salary for all occupations and nearly $20,000 below the median salary for all working veterinary professionals.
Education Requirements
Vet techs must have at least a 2-year associate degree from an accredited community college or technical school, although many programs now offer 4-year bachelor’s degrees. Classes include anatomy, physiology, animal husbandry, zoology, microbiology, nutrition, animal Behavior, surgical nursing and pharmacology. In addition to classroom work, most programs require supervised clinical experience in private practices or animal hospitals. Some states require vet techs to be licensed or registered; requirements vary by state.
What are the Pros and Cons of Being a Vet Tech?
Working as a vet tech can be a rewarding and challenging career choice. You will be able to work with a variety of animals and help them receive the best possible care. However, there are some downsides to being a vet tech as well. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of being a vet tech.
Pros
The job outlook for veterinary technicians is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in employment for vet techs between 2016 and 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. In May 2017, the median annual salary for vet techs was $33,400.
There are many other reasons to consider a career as a veterinary technician. The work can be both emotionally gratifying and intellectually challenging. You’ll have the chance to work with a variety of animals, from dogs and cats to reptiles and birds. You’ll also have opportunities to learn new skills and advance your career.
Cons
Working as a vet tech can be a very rewarding experience. You get to work with animals and help them to feel better. However, there are also some drawbacks to the job. One of the biggest cons is the pay. Vet techs do not make a lot of money. The median salary for a vet tech is only $32,000 per year. This can be a big problem if you have a family to support or if you live in an expensive area. Another con is the hours. Vet techs often have to work long hours, including weekends and holidays. This can make it difficult to have a personal life outside of work. Finally, working with sick and injured animals can be emotionally taxing. You may see animals in pain on a daily basis and feel helpless to do anything about it.
What are the Best Vet Tech Programs?
Considering a career in veterinary technology? Want to know what the best vet tech programs are? Here’s everything you need to know about vet tech programs, from the best schools to the most popular majors.
Top 10 Vet Tech Programs
Not all vet tech programs are created equal. In order to find the best possible program for you, it is important to do your research and consider a variety of factors, such as cost, location, and course offerings. The following is a list of the top 10 vet tech programs in the United States, based on these factors.
1. Purdue Universityvet tech program is one of the most comprehensive and affordable in the country. Located in Indiana, this program offers a variety of courses that will prepare you for a career in veterinary medicine.
2. The Illinois Institute of Technology offers an excellent vet tech program that is both affordable and comprehensive. This program is located in Chicago, making it a convenient option for those who live in or near the city.
3. Michigan State University offers a top-notch vet tech program that is very affordable and comprehensive. This program is located in Lansing, making it a convenient option for those who live in or near the city.
4. The Ohio State University has an excellent vet tech program that is also very affordable and comprehensive. This program is located in Columbus, making it a convenient option for those who live in or near the city.
5. Cornell University has an excellent vet tech program that is also quite affordable and comprehensive. This program is located in Ithaca, making it a convenient option for those who live in or near the city.
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How Do I Become a Vet Tech?
In order to become a vet tech, one must complete a two-year accredited veterinary technology program. There are many different ways to become a vet tech, but this is the most common and most popular route. Once you have completed the program, you will then take a state and/or national Exam.
Steps to Becoming a Vet Tech
If you love animals and want to help care for them, you might be wondering how to become a veterinary technician. Veterinary technicians work closely with veterinarians, aiding in the diagnosing and treatment of animal health problems.
Becoming a veterinary technician generally requires completing a two-year associate’s degree in veterinary technology. Vet tech programs are widely available at community colleges and technical schools across the United States. After completing a vet tech program, you will need to pass a state-specific exam to earn your veterinary technician license.
While you can enter the field with an associate’s degree, many veterinarians opt to pursue additional education by completing a four-year bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. Bachelor’s degree programs typically include more hands-on clinical experience than an associate’s degree program and can lead to advanced career opportunities.
Follow the steps below to learn how to become a veterinary technician.
