Many of us like the idea of spending our lives helping animals, but may not have the time or resources to go to veterinary school. The next best thing, then, would be a veterinary technician. Vet Techs help out in surgery, perform x-rays and basic “nurse” functions like taking temperatures, giving vaccines, and collecting samples for tests. It’s a rewarding job…but it’s also a highly-sought after job with a lot of applicants. Make sure you are doing all you can to stand out from the crowd.
The First Step
Since most of us have to work through school, you should immediately look for a job within the veterinary field while you are studying. Vet receptionist are often in school to be techs, and a lot of vets will hire pet lovers without experience.
Another option is to first become a veterinary assistant. Although schooling is not required for this position, it can help you stand out. There are programs for certified vet assistants from schools like Animal Behavior College and Penn Foster. These are online courses you can finish fairly quickly.
School and Certification
In most places, in order to be a full-fledged vet tech, you need to be registered, meaning you went to school and pass a statewide certifying test. There is also a national test that most states require as well. Ask your vet what certifications your state requires, or inquire at a school with a vet tech program. Both should know the answers to your questions.
There are colleges all over the country that have vet tech programs. VeterinaryTechnician.com has a comprehensive list of schools to help you start your search. Before choosing a school, ask these questions:
- Does the course schedule fit in with your life and work schedule?
- Will it give you the knowledge you need for your career goals? For example, if you want to work at an alternative medicine/homeopathic vet office, make sure the programs you are looking into covers these topics.
- Is it accredited? This is important if you need student loans. Most student loans, especially federal, only apply to accredited schools. Plus, these are better on the resume.
- Do they help with job placement? Some programs will help you find a job once you are graduate, which can be difficult.
- How much of the program is hands-on? The veterinary field is very “hands-on” and your program should be too. Walk away from the program that is 100% online.
Setting goals and keeping yourself on track will make sure you achieve your dreams.
Networking
Start networking while you are still in school.
Find out if there are any local vet associations that you can join, most have student rates that are pretty cheap.
- Subscribe to trade journals such as Vetinary Practice News to keep up to date on the industry. It will impress interviewers if you can talk about new medicines and techniques that are not even public knowledge yet.
- Make sure your Facebook profile is presentable. A lot of employers are looking on Facebook now before they even call someone in for an interview. Does yours represent a mature and caring individual?
- Linkedin is a great way to network with professionals, ask for advice and tips, and create friendships. Do not be too pushy. Remember, these are busy professionals. Be polite and succinct when asking for help and don’t presume someone “must” be interested in you just because they accepted your connection.
If you are going to be a tech in the United States, be sure to join the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America. Their student membership is just $25 and they have a lot of resources and benefits including continuing education, discounts on vet supplies, and an online job search.
