Everything You Need to Know About Becoming a Veterinary Technician
Considering a career as a Veterinary Technician?
Are you passionate about animals and looking for a rewarding career? Consider becoming a Veterinary Technician! At the Colorado Academy of Veterinary Technology (CAVT), we offer a comprehensive Veterinary Technician Program that will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field.
Discover the Potential Earnings
According to the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), the average pay for veterinary technicians in 2022 was $26.50 per hour. However, top earners can make $40 per hour or even more. Your salary as a vet tech can be influenced by factors such as your location, level of experience, and specialization. With a projected job growth rate of 20% over the next 10 years and approximately 15,000 job openings annually, the veterinary technician field offers promising opportunities.
Veterinary technicians report higher than average job satisfaction. If you have a love for animals and are seeking a fulfilling career, learn more by completing the Request Information form to learn more.
Differences Between Veterinary Technicians and Veterinary Assistants
Veterinary Technicians and Veterinary Assistants have distinct roles, educational requirements, and certifications. As a veterinary technician, also known as a veterinary nurse, you will play a vital role in the treatment of animals in various clinical settings. Your responsibilities may include performing lab tests, administering vaccines, conducting bloodwork, taking x-rays, initiating IVs, assisting veterinarians during diagnostic procedures and surgeries, and providing sedation. On the other hand, veterinary assistants support vet techs and veterinarians in clinical duties while also performing clerical tasks. They assist with scheduling appointments, caring for animals, monitoring animals after sedation procedures, administering medications, ensuring proper feeding and cleanliness, and maintaining animal kennels.
The biggest difference between vet techs and assistants lies in their education and certification requirements. Veterinary technicians are required to hold an associate’s degree and pass the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam), which is a board exam. To be eligible for the VTNE, you must have attended an AVMA-accredited school like CAVT. In contrast, vet assistants are required to have a high school diploma or GED. While they may receive on-the-job training opportunities, many employers prefer candidates with some form of formal training.
Specializations & Clinical Settings
As a veterinary technician, you’ll have numerous options for specialization. In addition to private practices, you can explore opportunities in corporate practices, research facilities, and charitable organizations. The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) offers additional training for both vet techs and assistants to pursue specialization. Some exciting options include zoological medicine, internal medicine, critical care, dental technician, advanced anesthesia, and equine nursing. At CAVT, we provide the necessary education and resources to help you specialize in your preferred area. Start your journey toward a fulfilling career in veterinary technology today at the Colorado Academy of Veterinary Technology!
Licensing
Effective January 1, 2024, veterinary technicians will be required to be licensed by the state of Colorado. Many other states already have registration requirements in place. To become a licensed veterinary technician, you’ll need to successfully complete an AVMA-accredited program and earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Subsequently, you’ll need to pass the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam). The CACVT (Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians) will verify that you meet all the requirements to apply for the Registered Vet Tech (RVT) designation. Take the first step toward becoming an RVT by contacting the Colorado Academy of Veterinary Technology today!