Want to Be a Veterinary Technician?

Want to Be a Certified Veterinary Technician?

If you’re passionate about animal healthcare and want a hands-on, clinical role, a career as a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) might be a great fit for you. Veterinary technicians are essential members of the veterinary team, trained to perform medical tasks that support veterinarians in providing high-quality care to their patients. With specialized training and certification, CVTs bring advanced skills to animal healthcare, making a difference in the lives of pets every day.

What Does a Certified Veterinary Technician Do?

Certified Veterinary Technicians handle a range of medical and technical responsibilities within a veterinary practice. Their training and expertise allow them to perform important clinical tasks and work closely with veterinarians to ensure that pets receive the best possible care.

Here are some of the main duties of a CVT:

• Conducting Medical Exams and Testing: CVTs assist in physical exams, take medical histories, and conduct diagnostic tests, such as blood draws, lab work, and radiographs, to help veterinarians diagnose and treat pets.
• Administering Treatments and Medications: They are trained to administer vaccines, medications, and treatments as directed by the veterinarian, ensuring safe and effective care for each patient.
• Assisting in Surgery and Anesthesia: Veterinary technicians prepare animals for surgery, monitor anesthesia, and assist veterinarians during surgical procedures, ensuring safety and precision.
• Providing Client Education and Support: CVTs help educate clients on topics like preventive care, post-surgical recovery, and managing chronic conditions. Their guidance is essential in helping pet owners feel informed and empowered.
• Handling Emergency and Critical Care: In emergency situations, CVTs play a crucial role by stabilizing patients, administering first aid, and assisting veterinarians with urgent care needs.
• Maintaining Records and Inventory: CVTs keep accurate records of patient care and treatment, manage inventory of medical supplies, and ensure that the clinic is well-stocked and prepared.

What Skills and Qualifications Do You Need to Be a CVT?

Becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician requires a specific skill set and dedication to both formal education and certification. Here are some key qualities and qualifications:

• Formal Education and Certification: Most CVTs complete an accredited veterinary technology program, earning an Associate or Bachelor’s degree, and then pass a national exam (such as the VTNE) to become certified.
• Advanced Animal Care Skills: As they work directly with animals in a clinical setting, CVTs need excellent animal handling skills, as well as training in anatomy, pharmacology, anesthesia, and more.
• Detail-Oriented and Technically Skilled: Whether they’re monitoring vital signs, administering anesthesia, or performing lab tests, CVTs must pay close attention to detail and follow precise protocols.
• Compassion and Patience: Veterinary technicians work closely with both pets and pet owners, providing compassionate support in a variety of situations, from routine care to critical emergencies.
• Strong Communication Skills: CVTs regularly interact with clients, explaining medical procedures and care instructions, as well as coordinating with veterinarians and other team members.
• Ability to Work Under Pressure: Veterinary clinics, especially emergency settings, can be fast-paced and high-stress. The ability to remain calm and effective under pressure is essential.

Why Consider a Career as a Certified Veterinary Technician?

A career as a CVT offers a unique opportunity to play a direct role in animal healthcare. Veterinary technicians are trusted professionals who work closely with veterinarians to provide essential care for pets, making a meaningful impact on both pets and their owners. It’s an ideal career for those who want to apply their medical knowledge and compassion in a hands-on, rewarding profession.

Certified Veterinary Technicians also have diverse career paths, with opportunities in general practice, emergency and specialty clinics, research, wildlife rehabilitation, and more. For those who are passionate about lifelong learning, continuing education and specialized certifications allow CVTs to further develop skills in areas such as anesthesia, surgery, and behavior.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician, start by researching accredited veterinary technology programs and learning about the certification process. Shadowing a CVT or volunteering at a veterinary clinic can also provide valuable insight into the role and help you decide if it’s the right career for you.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Veterinary Technician, please visit the American Veterinary Medical Association’s website at https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/yourvet/veterinary-technicians-and-veterinary-assistants

Are you ready to apply to a veterinary technology program?

Dakota County Technical College –
https://www.dctc.edu/academics/programs-majors/health-education/veterinary-technician/

Northwood Technical College –
https://www.northwoodtech.edu/academic-programs/degree-programs-and-certificates/veterinary-technician