What is a 'veterinary technologist'?

To properly answer this question one must understand there are different levels of classification of staff members who assist in the field of veterinary medicine. The veterinary technologist is the one with the most formal education in the field and there are different classifications of a veterinary technologist or "vet tech."

To achieve the degree of veterinary technologist one has to go to a college/junior college that offers this course of study and it is typically a two year program. They take basic science classes related to veterinary medicine and animal care. In addition, there is a great deal of time spent learning how to perform laboratory work, taking radiographs, assisting in surgery, animal handling, and other techniques which must be mastered in order to be able to function in a veterinary practice. As part of the educational requirements, time must be spent working in a veterinary practice as an "extern" for a period of time determined by the particular curriculum of the school. Some veterinary technology programs are at schools in close proximity to a veterinary college, so a great deal of the practical experience is obtained there. Upon graduation from such a program, the degree of veterinary technologist is achieved. The graduate can then pursue a career in a private veterinary practice, academia, research, and other animal-related fields.

However, it does not stop there. A standardized test can then be taken and if passed the designation of "Certified Veterinary Technologist" (CVT) is awarded. A CVT can command a higher salary and can perform certain functions non-certified technologists cannot. For example, our practice has a four year accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association and one of the standards we must follow is that only a CVT can assist the veterinarian in surgery.

A veterinary assistant is someone who helps the veterinarians in a practice, does not have a veterinary technologist degree, but has learned essentially "on the job."

Some people take on-line courses but the degree will be for an animal care specialist (or something similar) but cannot achieve the designation as a veterinary technologist.

CVTs, veterinary technologists, and veterinary assistants are essential in the functioning of any veterinary practice. Depending upon the way a practice is run they may have a wide range of responsibilities and duties. They may place clients in exam rooms, take a history, aid the veterinarian during the physical examination, collect blood samples, take radiographs, conduct the laboratory testing, groom pets, treat hospitalized patients, spend a great deal of time interacting with the clients and explaining proper pet care or if a pet is being sent home with medication, how to properly administer the home treatments, assisting in surgery, the list goes on.

It is a worthwhile career and I know our practice could not function as effectively without them.