At Androscoggin Animal Hospital, our veterinary technicians are essential to our team, and play a vital role in providing exceptional animal care. As part of our celebration of Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week, we’ll take a closer look at the daily routine of veterinary technicians, their training and education, and the importance of their work in ensuring the health and wellness of our beloved pets.
The Vital Role of Veterinary Technicians
Veterinary technicians are an integral part of the veterinary team, responsible for assisting veterinarians with a variety of animal care duties. They perform a range of tasks, from administering medication and vaccinations to assisting with surgical procedures and performing medical tests.
Beyond basic pet healthcare procedures, they also monitor pets’ vital signs, collect and analyze lab samples, and communicate with pet owners about treatment options and care plans.
In essence, veterinary technicians act as the backbone of veterinary care, performing necessary tasks to ensure that pets receive the attention they need.
A Glimpse Into the Daily Routine
A typical day for a veterinary technician is diverse and dynamic, with a wide range of responsibilities and tasks to complete.
Vet tech duties may include greeting pet owners and their animals, preparing pets for exams and procedures, taking X-rays and lab samples, administering medications, updating medical records and charts, and providing follow-up care instructions to pet owners. They may also assist veterinarians during surgeries and medical procedures, monitor an animal’s response to treatment and medication, and provide emotional support to pets and their owners.
Becoming a Veterinary Technician
Most veterinary technicians complete a two- to three-year program at an accredited American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) institution, which leads to an associate degree in veterinary technology. After their education, aspiring veterinary technicians must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to earn their certification or license to practice. Continuing education is also necessary to maintain certification and ensure they stay up-to-date on the latest developments in veterinary care.
But becoming a veterinary technician is more than just meeting educational requirements—it’s a calling for those with a profound love for animals and a keen interest in medicine. Here’s a closer look at the traits that can lead to success in this role:
Empathy and Compassion: Vet techs are often the first point of contact for worried pet owners. The ability to understand and share the feelings of others is essential in providing comfort and care.
Attention to Detail: Whether administering medications, conducting laboratory tests, or keeping detailed patient records, precision and accuracy are paramount in this field.
Strong Communication Skills: Collaborating with veterinarians, pet owners, and other team members requires clear and effective communication. This ability ensures that the best care is given and understood by all parties involved.
Adaptability: In a veterinary clinic, no two days are the same. Adapting to various situations, from emergency surgeries to routine check-ups, is vital for success in this profession.
Physical Stamina: Working with animals requires physical effort. Physical fitness is an asset in this field, whether it’s restraining a large dog for an examination or standing for long periods.
Problem-Solving Skills: Veterinary technicians must think independently, particularly in emergencies. Critical thinking and quick decision-making abilities can often mean the difference between life and death for a patient.
A Love for Continuous Learning: As veterinary medicine evolves, the desire to continue learning and growing in the profession is essential. Engaging with new techniques, technologies, and best practices keeps a veterinary technician at the forefront of the field.
Androscoggin Animal Hospital’s Veterinary Technicians
Androscoggin Animal Hospital’s veterinary technicians are highly skilled and trained to provide exceptional pet care. They work alongside our veterinarians to ensure pets receive the best possible treatment and care, from routine check-ups to more complex medical procedures.
If you’d like to schedule a wellness visit or are looking for a skilled and compassionate veterinary care team, call us today to schedule an appointment.