How to Become a Vet Tech in Colorado

Veterinary medicine offers many career paths. One is that of the veterinary technician, who work at the direction of the veterinarian and perform a variety of duties, from assisting in surgery to managing the office. The state of Colorado regulates but does not license veterinary technicians.

Instructions

1. Work at a veterinarian practice, farm or zoo. Working in the veterinary field will give you a good idea of whether this is the career for you. Spend time with some veterinary technicians. Find out what vet techs actually do, what hours they worked when they first started and whether they enjoy their jobs.

2. Enroll in a veterinary technician program at an American Veterinary Medical Association accredited school. Veterinary technician programs last 2 years. The program will provide classroom and real world experiences.

3. Take and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Colorado provides certification to anyone who completes the veterinary technician program from an accredited school and passes the national exam. The only other way to become certified in Colorado is to transfer from another state that licenses technicians.

4. Work as a veterinary technician. Colorado mandates that the veterinarian is responsible for overseeing the veterinary technician.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the state of Colorado. Requirements for certification may be changed. The program is under review.

Resources

• Career Guide--Colorado Veterinary Technician
• Veterinary careers