5 answers
Hannah
Student
Box Elder, South Dakota
7
Questions
Asked
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What should I study to be a good vet tech?
I really want to be a vet tech and I wanna start studying now
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5 answers
margaret mchenney
Research Scientist, molecular biology; veterinary technology
4
Answers
Placitas, New Mexico
Updated
margaret’s Answer
In addition to the great answers above I suggest researching universities that offer an excellent veterinary technology curriculum. I chose Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. Some of my credits from University of Michigan where I obtained a B. S in microbiology transferred too. The program through the veterinary school is top notch and includes 17 practical courses to give hands on experience to the student. The program is very comprehensive, but pricey. I believe that there are programs that take less time but they won't be comprehensive. They will be basic. Some veterinarians prefer to do on the job training. It is purely experiential, but continuing education can supplement and fill in the scientific gaps,
Melissa Hatfield
Sales Leadership
8
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
To become a skilled vet tech, focus on biology, anatomy, and animal science to build a strong foundation. Hands-on experience is key, so volunteering at animal shelters or clinics can be super helpful. Learn about animal behavior and nutrition, and don't forget to brush up on your communication skills – you'll need to explain things clearly to pet owners. Stay curious, keep learning, and you'll be on your way to becoming an awesome vet tech! 🐾👩⚕️
Rory Lall
Administrative Assistant
57
Answers
Valley Stream, New York
Updated
Rory’s Answer
Hi Hannah! I'm thrilled to guide you on your exciting journey to becoming an outstanding vet tech.
Let's start with the educational foundation you'll need:
1. Associate Degree: Most roles in vet tech require at least an associate degree in veterinary technology. Make sure to choose programs that have the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) seal of approval.
2. Bachelor’s Degree: If you're aiming for a deeper understanding of subjects like animal anatomy, pharmacology, and surgical nursing, a four-year bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology or a similar field would be a great choice.
Now, let's talk about what a day in the life of a vet tech looks like:
1. Pet History: One of your key roles will be to gather comprehensive information from pet owners during visits.
2. Medical Data: You'll help analyze X-rays, labs, collect blood, and evaluate urine samples.
3. Surgical Assistance: You'll be a vital member of the surgical team, preparing for surgeries, monitoring vitals during procedures, and ensuring surgical areas are spotless.
To officially become a certified veterinary technician, you'll need to:
1. Complete a program accredited for veterinary technicians.
2. Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
3. Meet any additional requirements specific to your state.
As a vet tech, you have the opportunity to specialize in:
1. Pets: This is the most common path, working in veterinary clinics.
2. Farm Animals: You could find yourself working on livestock farms.
3. Exotic Animals: This exciting path could lead you to zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, or private industries.
To be truly effective in your role, you'll need hands-on experience:
1. Internships, externships, and clinical rotations are great ways to gain practical skills.
2. You'll learn how to handle animals, assist in surgeries, and interpret diagnostic tests.
Finally, don't forget about the importance of soft skills:
1. Empathy, communication, and teamwork skills are vital.
2. Compassion and patience will be key when dealing with animals and their owners.
Remember, the recipe for a successful vet tech is a mix of knowledge, compassion, and hands-on experience. You're on your way to providing top-notch care for our beloved furry friends!
Let's start with the educational foundation you'll need:
1. Associate Degree: Most roles in vet tech require at least an associate degree in veterinary technology. Make sure to choose programs that have the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) seal of approval.
2. Bachelor’s Degree: If you're aiming for a deeper understanding of subjects like animal anatomy, pharmacology, and surgical nursing, a four-year bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology or a similar field would be a great choice.
Now, let's talk about what a day in the life of a vet tech looks like:
1. Pet History: One of your key roles will be to gather comprehensive information from pet owners during visits.
2. Medical Data: You'll help analyze X-rays, labs, collect blood, and evaluate urine samples.
3. Surgical Assistance: You'll be a vital member of the surgical team, preparing for surgeries, monitoring vitals during procedures, and ensuring surgical areas are spotless.
To officially become a certified veterinary technician, you'll need to:
1. Complete a program accredited for veterinary technicians.
2. Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
3. Meet any additional requirements specific to your state.
As a vet tech, you have the opportunity to specialize in:
1. Pets: This is the most common path, working in veterinary clinics.
2. Farm Animals: You could find yourself working on livestock farms.
3. Exotic Animals: This exciting path could lead you to zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, or private industries.
To be truly effective in your role, you'll need hands-on experience:
1. Internships, externships, and clinical rotations are great ways to gain practical skills.
2. You'll learn how to handle animals, assist in surgeries, and interpret diagnostic tests.
Finally, don't forget about the importance of soft skills:
1. Empathy, communication, and teamwork skills are vital.
2. Compassion and patience will be key when dealing with animals and their owners.
Remember, the recipe for a successful vet tech is a mix of knowledge, compassion, and hands-on experience. You're on your way to providing top-notch care for our beloved furry friends!
Michael Bylund
Tech Sales
23
Answers
Falls Church, Virginia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
To become a good veterinary technician (vet tech), you'll need a combination of education, practical experience, and personal qualities. Here are some steps you can take:
1. **Education**: Pursue an accredited veterinary technology program. These programs typically result in an associate degree and cover topics such as animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, anesthesia, surgical assisting, and medical terminology. Look for programs accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or your country's equivalent accreditation body.
2. **Practical Experience**: Gain hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs at veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or research facilities. This will give you exposure to different aspects of veterinary care and help you develop important skills.
3. **Certification**: In many places, becoming a certified veterinary technician (CVT), registered veterinary technician (RVT), or licensed veterinary technician (LVT) is necessary for practice. This typically involves passing a national or state exam after completing an accredited veterinary technology program.
4. **Continuing Education**: Stay updated on the latest advancements in veterinary medicine through continuing education courses, workshops, and conferences. This will help you provide the best possible care to animals and stay competitive in the field.
5. **Soft Skills**: Develop strong communication skills, both with clients and other members of the veterinary team. Compassion, patience, and empathy are also crucial when working with animals and their owners.
6. **Specialization**: Consider pursuing specialized training in areas such as dentistry, anesthesia, emergency care, or behavior if you have a particular interest. This can enhance your skills and open up more career opportunities.
Remember, being a good vet tech requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical skills, and a genuine love for animals. Continuously strive to improve yourself and provide the best care possible to the animals under your charge.
1. **Education**: Pursue an accredited veterinary technology program. These programs typically result in an associate degree and cover topics such as animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, anesthesia, surgical assisting, and medical terminology. Look for programs accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or your country's equivalent accreditation body.
2. **Practical Experience**: Gain hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs at veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or research facilities. This will give you exposure to different aspects of veterinary care and help you develop important skills.
3. **Certification**: In many places, becoming a certified veterinary technician (CVT), registered veterinary technician (RVT), or licensed veterinary technician (LVT) is necessary for practice. This typically involves passing a national or state exam after completing an accredited veterinary technology program.
4. **Continuing Education**: Stay updated on the latest advancements in veterinary medicine through continuing education courses, workshops, and conferences. This will help you provide the best possible care to animals and stay competitive in the field.
5. **Soft Skills**: Develop strong communication skills, both with clients and other members of the veterinary team. Compassion, patience, and empathy are also crucial when working with animals and their owners.
6. **Specialization**: Consider pursuing specialized training in areas such as dentistry, anesthesia, emergency care, or behavior if you have a particular interest. This can enhance your skills and open up more career opportunities.
Remember, being a good vet tech requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical skills, and a genuine love for animals. Continuously strive to improve yourself and provide the best care possible to the animals under your charge.
Nirah Shomer, DVM PhD DACLAM
Senior leader in laboratory animal science, animal welfare, and regulatory compliance
52
Answers
Updated
Nirah’s Answer
Hi, Hannah. You did not say whether you are in high school or junior high, but either way, there are definitely classes you can take now that will help you later as a veterinary assistant or veterinary technician.
Number 1 on this list is math, especially algebra. Why math? Because it will be critical for you to be able to calculate the correct dose of drugs to administer to animals, and in many cases you will need to dilute drugs or adjust doses when you are dealing with very small patients. When you have a patient in the vet hospital, generally the vet will tell you a dose to give (eg 10 mg/kg), but it will be up to you to weigh the animal and then calculate how much drug to administer based on the animal's weight, and THEN to calculate how many mls to draw up in the syringe. Drugs sometimes come in different concentrations (eg xylazine comes as 20 mg/ml or 100 mg/ml), and you will need to figure out which formulation is best for the size of your patient, and how much drug to give. You don't need calculus or trigonometry to do your job (or pass your other vet tech classes), but if you aren't proficient with basic algebra you will really struggle, and you could accidentally overdose or underdose an animal. Also make sure you are really solid on understanding the metric system, as most drug doses are given in mg/kg (not teaspoons, ounces, and pounds). Confusing a miligram for a gram could have drastic effects when dosing drugs. Sadly, I have had some vet techs struggle with dosing calculations and have had to provide remedial training for some of my techs.
Biology is obviously another helpful field, especially if you can take classes that include anatomy or physiology. Even if it is human anatomy, it is still useful- there are a lot of similarities between species, and learning human anatomy is a great starting place to learn the anatomy of other vertebrate animals. Heck, humans are just big monkeys, right? :)
Chemistry is important too, especially understanding concepts like pH, solutions, and and osmosis. They will be important for later understanding how drugs work, how they interact with the body, and also for understanding concepts related to anesthesia and anesthesia monitoring.
Physics classes (especially classes focusing on electromagnetic spectra) will provide important information that will later help you understand how a lot of medical equipment works, including X rays, lasers, ultrasound, and MRI scanners. Physics classes about the structure of atoms will be critical in understanding how chemistry works.
Those are the main things you can study right now that will help you. Something else that would help would be talking to your teachers, telling them about your interest in veterinary technology, and asking them to point out whenever a subject they are teaching has a real-world application in medicine. That will help keep you motivated and interested in learning the material.
The next step could be to get some time volunteering or working at a vet practice as a veterinary assistant (that is the proper name for a person without Veterinary Technician credentials). That will give you an idea of what the job is really like.
To become a Veterinary Technician, you need to complete at least a two-year Associates Degree at an AVMA-accredited vet tech program in a college or university, and then to pass the vet tech board exam (NAVTA). Depending on what state you live in, there may also be a state licensing exam.
Number 1 on this list is math, especially algebra. Why math? Because it will be critical for you to be able to calculate the correct dose of drugs to administer to animals, and in many cases you will need to dilute drugs or adjust doses when you are dealing with very small patients. When you have a patient in the vet hospital, generally the vet will tell you a dose to give (eg 10 mg/kg), but it will be up to you to weigh the animal and then calculate how much drug to administer based on the animal's weight, and THEN to calculate how many mls to draw up in the syringe. Drugs sometimes come in different concentrations (eg xylazine comes as 20 mg/ml or 100 mg/ml), and you will need to figure out which formulation is best for the size of your patient, and how much drug to give. You don't need calculus or trigonometry to do your job (or pass your other vet tech classes), but if you aren't proficient with basic algebra you will really struggle, and you could accidentally overdose or underdose an animal. Also make sure you are really solid on understanding the metric system, as most drug doses are given in mg/kg (not teaspoons, ounces, and pounds). Confusing a miligram for a gram could have drastic effects when dosing drugs. Sadly, I have had some vet techs struggle with dosing calculations and have had to provide remedial training for some of my techs.
Biology is obviously another helpful field, especially if you can take classes that include anatomy or physiology. Even if it is human anatomy, it is still useful- there are a lot of similarities between species, and learning human anatomy is a great starting place to learn the anatomy of other vertebrate animals. Heck, humans are just big monkeys, right? :)
Chemistry is important too, especially understanding concepts like pH, solutions, and and osmosis. They will be important for later understanding how drugs work, how they interact with the body, and also for understanding concepts related to anesthesia and anesthesia monitoring.
Physics classes (especially classes focusing on electromagnetic spectra) will provide important information that will later help you understand how a lot of medical equipment works, including X rays, lasers, ultrasound, and MRI scanners. Physics classes about the structure of atoms will be critical in understanding how chemistry works.
Those are the main things you can study right now that will help you. Something else that would help would be talking to your teachers, telling them about your interest in veterinary technology, and asking them to point out whenever a subject they are teaching has a real-world application in medicine. That will help keep you motivated and interested in learning the material.
The next step could be to get some time volunteering or working at a vet practice as a veterinary assistant (that is the proper name for a person without Veterinary Technician credentials). That will give you an idea of what the job is really like.
To become a Veterinary Technician, you need to complete at least a two-year Associates Degree at an AVMA-accredited vet tech program in a college or university, and then to pass the vet tech board exam (NAVTA). Depending on what state you live in, there may also be a state licensing exam.