Amanda
How do i find a Vet clinic looking for an inexperienced vet tech?
My vet teacher said some clinics are willing to train a vet tech in the clinic but when I do job searches no one in my state is looking. I don't know where to look or who to call. I'm wanting to train in the clinic and work the job as I'm in college/university to become a Vet.
#veterinary-technician #job-search
2 answers
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Amanda,
Veterinary work is exciting! You might try looking for internships, either paid or unpaid. You also might consider doing some volunteer work at a shelter, so you are no longer "inexperienced."
Another idea, which, I know this sounds a bit "old school," but you might try writing a short letter to a few practices. I would be careful to write this in a balanced way, so that, you express not only what benefits you would get from the experience, but also, what contributions you would be making. Everyone has to start somewhere, so express a willingness to be that person who helps out when staff is short-handed: cleaning cages, receiving and stocking supply shipments, etc. As you write, keep in mind that any time a new person comes aboard, it takes extra resources to train that person - so you want to show that you will "earn your keep."
To find the practices, use on-line searching for veterinary clinics in your area. They usually post addresses. Try to address your letter to the owner of the practice, if possible.
Best of luck!
Kim
Alexis Mann
Alexis’s Answer
How cool that you're on the path to become a vet!
I'll echo the guidance shared by Kim -- it's very worthwhile reaching out directly to both practices and shelters in your area.
Though I'm not a vet nor skilled in the technical side of animal care or rehabbing, I volunteer with both an animal shelter and a wildlife rehabber. Neither of these opportunities were posted online; I directly phoned the centers, asked about volunteering and let them know what skills I have.
The benefit of phoning directly for you is that the practice or center knows immediately that you're a proactive individual - you also have the advantage of connecting via voice and creating some rapport, which can be tricky in a cold email. Another benefit is that clinics are generally swamped with work and don't have a lot of time to reply to emails or website queries.
Specifically, on the phone I would introduce myself and say I am a vet student and then ask the person who answers the phone who you could speak to about volunteer or training opportunities. Something to keep in mind is that it could be great to begin as a general volunteer -- general admin, clerical, or cleaning/stocking work (all of which is excellent experience for the business side of being a vet) -- and as you get to know the vets, and they see your work ethic, networking and more specific training opportunities will likely arise.
You could also put together a cover letter, stating why you're interested in training at that clinic and what your skills are, and include a resume or transcript. The week after this is delivered, you can follow up with a phone call.
Also, does your school or program have any student services? There may be local practices who have reached out looking for student workers. Otherwise, I'd think outside the box a bit and in addition to reaching out to local vet practices, maybe see if shelters, groomers or a pet daycare need assistance. The more experience you have with animals, the more you'll stand out to future employers as well as grow your own knowledge.
All the best!
Alexis