Veterinary Assistant Vs. Veterinary Tech
While veterinary assistants and technicians share a passion for pets and the people who love them, it is difficult to know the difference between the two careers at a glance. If you are an animal lover looking to enter the field of veterinary services, which career path is better suited for you? Consider education, job responsibilities and the required skills as you make your choice.
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Skills
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Veterinary technicians and assistants have the same primary skills. They both have the desire to handle animals and know the risks associated with them. They enjoy working with people and don't mind getting dirty. Assistants possess clerical and administrative ability with understanding of general animal care. Technicians understand basic biology principles and clinical research procedures.
Duties
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Performing duties under the supervision of a technician or veterinarian, veterinary assistants provide much of the hands-on animal care in a facility including feeding, grooming, exercising and restraining. Assistants sanitize and prepare facilities where the animals are kept. They complete clerical tasks during normal office hours. Technicians work under the supervision of the veterinarian. They can administer medications, prepare animals for surgery or other procedures and educate pet owners on animal care. Technicians may perform laboratory procedures and be required to be on duty 24 hours a day.
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Education
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While there are educational programs provided for veterinary assistants, that career path does not require certification for employment. For most veterinary assistants, learning is done on the job under the supervision of the technician. Education programs help assistants prepare to enter the field, especially if they eventually wish to become technicians. Technicians are required to complete at least a two year associate's degree program from a school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Four year programs are available for technicians. They are also required to complete an externship, or off-site practical experience, as a part of the educational requirement.
Salary
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In 2008 the Bureau of Labor updated salary ranges for fields in veterinary services. Based on their research, the median annual salary for veterinary assistants is approximately $19,400. (See Reference 1) As technicians have certification requirements and duties that include light medical practices, their median annual salary is approximately $28,900. (See Reference 2)
Career Outlook
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The career landscape for veterinary assistants and technicians remains promising as private veterinary practices and research facilities indicate stable growth under normal economic conditions. In less ideal conditions, growth can expect to slow for private practices as pet owners are less likely to opt for animal services that aren't considered preventative or critical.
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References
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- Photo Credit Jeffrey Beall: Flickr.com
