Veterinary Assistants Vs. Veterinary Technicians
The veterinary field relies heavily on veterinary assistants and technicians. The training that a veterinarian or facility expects an assistant or technician to have will vary greatly. Likewise, the amount of responsibilities given a technician or assistant will vary. Neither position is high-paying. Nor does either position allow for a lot of professional development. Given that, veterinary assistants and technicians often find their careers rewarding.
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Responsibilities
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The responsibilities of veterinary assistants and technicians will vary between facilities. Typically a certified veterinary technician will be trusted to draw blood, take radiographs, administer anesthesia, give shots and medications, insert IV catheters and complete diagnostic laboratory work. A veterinary assistant will assist the technician and veterinarian until she has proven herself competent. A veterinary assistant will likely be in charge of keeping the facility clean, restraining animals and walking and feeding animals.
Required Degrees
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A veterinary technician needs an associate degree from a technical college and a passing grade on a credentialing exam. Each state has slightly different regulations and expectations for veterinary technicians. A veterinary assistant is usually someone seeking to become a technician or a doctor of veterinary medicine. The assistant likely is looking to gain experience while in school through on the job training. Some online schools offer course for veterinary assistants but such courses are not necessary.
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Salary
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A veterinary assistant will typically make between minimum wage and $12 an hour, depending on experience and value. A veterinary technician can earn from $8 to $20 an hour, depending on experience and location of employment.
Job Growth
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The veterinary field is growing. A good veterinary assistant or technician should be able to find work. The ability to grow within the field is much more difficult. The current state of veterinary medicine does not allow clinics to pay their employees very much and salaries top out pretty quickly. However, most people that find themselves in this career path find the work to be very rewarding and are willing to accept the lower salary.
Job Competition
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Competition for positions tends to be high for large hospitals and zoos/aquariums. If employment within a zoo is a goal, consider how often those positions open up and the number of people applying. The same goes for university hospitals and large, well-known clinics. Expect to work in a smaller clinic with basic case loads for the beginning of your career.
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