Veterinary Technology: Career information
Career overview
Veterinary technology is an animal health profession that has a diversity of job opportunities available to the graduate. Most veterinary technicians ultimately work for a veterinarian in a veterinary clinic or hospital. Others may choose to work in clinical veterinary laboratories, universities, zoos, animal shelters, pharmaceutical or pet food companies, research, or government veterinary services. There are also opportunities for post-graduate specialization in focused areas of veterinary technology. Veterinary technology is an applied science which requires an integration of skills, knowledge, and attitude that enable the veterinary technician, along with the veterinarian, to care for the animal patient and its owner. The veterinary professional community expects graduates to have competent skills, a working knowledge of animal behavior and animal health needs, and to maintain a professional attitude in the work environment.
Scope of practice
The scope of practice for a veterinary technician varies depending on state regulations, employer policies, and level of training. More information on scope of practice in the State of Oregon can be found in the Oregon Veterinary Practice Act.
Certification and licensure
National certification
All veterinary technician students who graduate from an accredited veterinary technology program will be eligible to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). This is a nationwide, standardized certifying examination administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. The cost for this exam varies but is typically around $350.
There are three testing windows per calendar year. PCC Veterinary Technology graduates typically take their exam in the July/August testing window, directly after graduation.
State licensure
The licensure process for veterinary technicians varies depending on state regulations. Some states only require a licensing fee and passing of the VTNE while others require a licensing fee, passing of the VTNE, and an additional state-level examination.
The program provides necessary information to students as they navigate these processes during the spring term of their second year when they are preparing to take the VTNE and become licensed in the state of their choosing.
Occupational risks
Veterinary medicine is a healthcare profession in which both clinical and administrative tasks are performed. Veterinary technicians work directly with patients, veterinarians, and other team members. It is a profession that focuses on providing a high level of patient care as well as being responsible for patient, staff, and owner safety.
It is important to recognize that this role comes with certain occupational risks. These occupational hazards include, but are not limited to:
- Exposure to infectious disease
- Injuries due to sharps
- Zoonotic diseases
- Chemical and drug exposure
- Ergonomic hazards from lifting and working with unpredictable animals
- Latex allergies
- Stress
There are protections set in place with the Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSHA) to help protect the safety of healthcare workers and patients. You will learn more about these occupational hazards and what is put in place to help ensure a safe workplace.
Professional associations
There are a variety of professional organizations available to veterinary technicians on both a local, and national level. Some organizations represent the broad spectrum of career choices (AVMA; American Veterinary Medical Association) while others represent a small niche (AZVT; Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians). These organizations offer many benefits including: continuing education, connection and networking opportunities, volunteer opportunities, career advancement, leadership, and more. Students are encouraged to participate in these organizations as students and carry this involvement into their professional careers.
Some well known examples not previously mentioned:
- NAVTA: National Association of Veterinary Technicians and Assistants
- Has a student chapter: SCNAVTA
- PVMA: Portland Veterinary Medical Association
- OVMA: Oregon Veterinary Medical Association
- OVTAA: Oregon Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association
Professional association for students
As mentioned above, NAVTA: National Association of Veterinary Technicians and Assistants has a student chapter: SCNAVTA.