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Healthcare Vet Technician
Hourly Rates up to Jobs Available
$37 15,400+

What Does a Vet Tech Do?

If your idea of the perfect job involves working with animals all day, then consider becoming a vet tech. 

Helping animals is deeply rewarding. However, this career requires emotional stamina. In some cases you’ll be saving lives, delivering new animals into the world or helping them in their elder years. 

Vet techs — also known as veterinary technicians, vet technicians or vet tech specialists (VTS) — have a wide variety of duties. They work under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian in clinics and veterinary hospitals.

They assist the veterinarian in many procedures, keep the office running smoothly and play a crucial role in working with pet owners. No day is ever the same. 

Being a vet tech means more than looking after animals. A big part of the job involves talking with pet owners to explain their pet’s condition or give advice on how to properly administer a medication. Being in contact with animals and their owners requires patience and compassion. Strong personal skills will come in handy.

Keep reading to learn what to expect as a vet tech, salary range, what training is needed and more. Plus, hear from from an expert what it’s really like to do this job.

Two veterinary technicians work with a dog
About 70% of U.S. households have a pet. Our love for animals has led to a growing need for veterinary technicians. (Credit: Tyler Olson/Shutterstock)

Responsibilities

  • Conduct initial review of pet patient and talk with the owner
  • Take initial readings, such as weight and vital signs
  • Handle all patient imaging processes, including X-rays, CT scans and MRIs
  • Provide emergency triage to critical patients and stabilize
  • Take blood for lab analysis
  • Administer medication and treatments
  • Monitor patient's vital signs under anesthesia (blood pressure, respiration, heart rate and oxygen levels)
  • Perform routine dental cleanings
  • Collect and record animals’ case histories
  • Conduct administrative duties (scheduling, billing and coding)
  • Bathe, clip nails/claws (depending on size of clinic)

How To Become a Vet Tech: FAQs

The bottom line:

For some people, the sheer variety in day-to-day tasks is a big part of the appeal of being a veterinary technician. 

This career can be incredibly rewarding. An ability to handle sensitive moments is key, like informing someone their beloved pet may have a serious condition or illness. You’ll be the first person a pet owner talks to in these difficult moments.

Being able to offer information with compassion will help you to manage complex situations. One of the most enjoyable parts of being a vet tech is the knowledge that you are making a difference — not only in the lives of your animal patients, but also their owners’ lives.

Ready to discover more? Check out the training links provided by SkillPointe and take the next step!

WATCH & LEARN: 

Veterinary tech Allison Milstone with her dog, Reagan

Day in the life of a vet tech

Few people know what they want to do with their lives when they’re 8 years old, but Allison Milstone did. A commercial she saw during a football game sealed the deal for this future vet tech. 

She didn’t start her working life in a vet’s office, but she always knew she would end up there.

She says every day as a vet tech is different.

“Some days it’s all puppies, kittens and sunshine. Other days it’s sick animals that need testing and diagnostics.” But it’s always worthwhile. 

Learn more about why she loves being a vet tech

Local Certifications and Requirements

You may need a state license or certificate before you can work in a specific career in your state. Different states may also have different education and experience requirements, fees and application forms. The good news - we make it super easy to find what you need to begin your new career. Just enter your zip code to get started.

Find Vet Technician Training In Your Area

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