Veterinary Technician
Vet Assistants and Technicians
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of veterinarians, laboratory animal specialists, and zoological professionals, to provide patient management, care, and clinical procedures assistance as well as owner communication.
What Veterinary Technicians Do
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of veterinarians, laboratory animal specialists, and zoological professionals, to provide patient management, care, and clinical procedures assistance as well as owner communication.
Common Tasks
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
- 1Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- 2Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- 3Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- 4Supervise laboratory sessions.
- 5Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
What You'll Learn
Types of Veterinary Technicians
Work Environment
Locations
- • Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals
- • Emergency and specialty veterinary hospitals
- • Animal shelters and humane societies
- • Research laboratories and universities
- • Zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers
Schedule
Many vet techs work a set schedule, but nights, weekends, and holidays are common in emergency, specialty, and hospital settings.
Physical Demands
The job is physically active with long periods of standing and walking, frequent lifting, and hands-on animal restraint. Expect bending, kneeling, and repetitive tasks, plus exposure to noise, odors, and potential bites or scratches.
Salary & Job Outlook
National Employment: 541,600 jobs
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
Demand may rise as pet ownership increases and more owners pursue advanced diagnostics, surgery, and ongoing treatment. Growth in specialty and emergency veterinary services can also increase the need for skilled technicians to support veterinarians.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Hands-on medical work with animals
- • Strong teamwork with veterinarians and clinic staff
- • Variety of duties (lab work, anesthesia, radiology, nursing care)
- • Multiple work settings (general practice, ER, specialty, research)
- • Clear pathways to specialization (e.g., emergency, internal medicine)
Cons
- • Emotionally difficult cases, including euthanasia
- • Risk of injury from animals and sharps
- • Physically demanding work and time on your feet
- • Moderate time pressure in busy clinics and emergencies
- • Pay may not match the responsibility level in some regions
Common Questions About the Veterinary Technician Trade
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