Veterinary technicians, also known as vet techs, work under the supervision of licensed veterinarians to help diagnose and treat animals illnesses and injuries. Depending on the work environment, a vet tech job description may include care, clinical, and laboratory tasks. Some of the common responsibilities of a vet tech include:
- Checking the condition of an animal and observing its behavior
- Administering first aid to injured animals
- Grooming animals such as bathing, brushing, cutting hair, and trimming nails
- Performing an initial examination of the animal
- Taking vital signs, drawing blood, and gathering medical histories
- Providing emergency first aid
- Collecting specimens
- Assisting in research
- Performing laboratory procedures
- Preparing animals and equipment for surgical procedures
- Administering medications and vaccines prescribed by a veterinarian
- Taking and processing x-rays
- Educating animal owners
Its important to note that there are certain tasks that veterinarian technicians are not allowed to perform, such as prescribing medication, performing surgery, and diagnosing medical conditions. Vet techs work in a variety of settings, including animal hospitals, private practices, laboratories, zoos, animal shelters, and universities. The work environment for a vet tech can be fast-paced and varies daily, making it a unique and flexible career path with potential for growth over time.
