Veterinary Technologists and Technicians

Performing medical tests for animals are the duties of veterinary technologists and technicians. Medical tests include blood counts, urinalysis, and blood sampling. They perform these tasks under the supervision of a vet. There is no doubt about it – they must be genuine animal lovers.

Although veterinary technologists and technicians are mostly identified with pets, they can perform diagnostic examinations for mice, rats, monkeys, fish, livestock, and even birds. They also perform research in cooperation with scientists and vets.

The most common workplace of veterinary technologists and technicians are in veterinary hospitals or clinics. Some find work in research laboratories where they record vital information of animals they observe. They also nurses newly born animals or those that are sick. Maybe the most difficult task a veterinary technologists and technicians do is to perform mercy killing on animals that are old, useless or severely injured. Working hours for veterinary technicians and technologists are oftentimes long and in shifts. Some also find it hard to clean cages of animals. They must also be prepared to receive calls for emergencies.

People who don’t want to spend more time in college usually study to become veterinary technician or technologist. High school students planning to take up veterinary technology or technician courses must prepare themselves by taking more science, math, and social studies subjects. They must develop listening and reasoning skills because they will deal with pet owners.

There are degrees for a two-year (associate) and a four-year (bachelor) course for veterinary technologist and technicians. After graduation, passing proficiency examinations both written and oral are required for certification.  Vets employ Veterinary technologists and technicians as assistants, but there are opportunities in zoos, veterinary hospitals, research facilities, and schools.

The annual income for veterinary technologists and technicians was close $23,000 in 2002. Demand for the job is seen to be increasing because more pet owners have become aware of the health of their pets and the help veterinary technologists and technicians can offer.

Veterinary technologists and technicians also assist vets and scientists in cloning projects. Some find satisfaction in wildlife research, military experiments, and pharmaceutical pursuits. In addition, specialization in animal dental and surgical care provides lucrative opportunities for veterinary technologists and technicians in many states or countries.

The profession involving veterinary technologists and technicians is expected to grow 35.32 percent between 2004 and 2010 as demands for animal care continue to rise.