Working as a veterinary technician can be both a rewarding and challenging career because of the care you provide to sick, injured, or abused animals. A vet tech works with veterinarians to ensure pets receive the best medical attention. Vet techs assist veterinarians with the following:

• Performing various medical tests
• Treating and diagnosing medical conditions in animals
• Assisting with dental care
• Exposing and developing x-rays
• Providing specialized nursing care

Each day vet techs are faced with new challenges, and it is important to have the proper education and training to guide them when helping animals.

Veterinary Technician Credentialing Process

To become a licensed vet tech, you need a combination of education and training. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredits degree programs which can provide you with the required courses in order to work as a vet tech. The classes you take will help prepare you to work in veterinary medicine.

Some of the courses you may take include:

• Animal medicine
• Animal dentistry
• Biology
• Mathematics
• Animal health

Along with the coursework, your degree program requires that you have clinical experience in a veterinary office setting. The hands on training provides critical training to help prepare you for your future career as a vet tech.

Before obtaining a vet tech job you will also be required to pass a credentialing exam by the AVMA. The exam consists of oral, written, and practical portions in order to determine your education and experience. The credentialing exam is regulated by the State Board of Veterinary Examiners, so your exam results can be transferred to other states.

Many states will also require that you take continuing education courses in order to remain up to date on the latest animal medicine technologies.

A career as a vet tech requires specific training and education but the hard work can pay off for a rewarding career working with animals.