Veterinarian Technician Requirements
Veterinary technicians are an important part of the veterinary team. They perform a variety of laboratory and clinical duties, such as assisting with surgeries, treating wounds and providing medication. Read on to learn more about what it takes to become a veterinarian technician.
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Education
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Veterinarian technicians must earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in veterinary technology. An associate's degree takes a year to complete, while a bachelor's takes four.
Coursework
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Veterinarian technician programs offer coursework in biology, chemistry, laboratory procedures, pharmacology and animal care.
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Laboratory Time
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Laboratory coursework is an essential component of most veterinarian technician programs. Students will learn how to analyze stool samples, and perform biopsies and blood work.
Internships
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Most veterinarian technician programs require students to complete an internship at a veterinary hospital or clinic. Internships teach students how to work with both animals and people. Interns will gain firsthand experience in performing procedures such as catheterization and suturing.
Exam
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After graduation from a veterinarian technician program, students are eligible to take the 4-hour VTNE, or the Veterincary Technician National Exam. A passing score is needed to become a certified veterinary technician.
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Comments
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cindyrvt
Sep 14, 2009
An associates degree program in veterinary technology is a 2 year program rather than a 1 year program. Besides just taking the VTNE, anyone seeking to be credentialed as a veterinary technician by their state may also be required to take a state exam. It is important to always check the requirements of the state that you live in as they vary from state to state as do the laws governing veterinary technicians.
