How to Become a Vet Tech: A Guide

If you’re looking for a career with animals, becoming a vet tech is a great choice. It’s a job that requires plenty of skill, compassion, and dedication. It’s also a job that is growing in demand, and is expected to grow in the future as more and more people realize how important vet techs are.

Understand the Requirements for Becoming a Vet Tech

To become a vet tech, you must first meet certain educational, training, and certification requirements. These requirements vary from state to state. You’ll generally need to complete an accredited veterinary technology program, pass a national exam, and obtain state licensure.

Choosing the Right Vet Tech Program

When choosing a vet tech program, look for one that offers hands-on lab time with an emphasis on practical, applied patient care. Programs should also include emergency and critical care procedures. Most courses will include basic and advanced medical topics such as physiology, anatomy, pathology, parasitology, pharmacology, anesthesia, medical terminology, and radiology.

Prepare for the National Examination

Once you’ve successfully completed an accredited vet tech program, you’ll be eligible to take the national exam. This exam assesses your knowledge and skills in the areas of physical examinations, medical treatments, diseases, laboratory tests, and areas of veterinarians’ assistant.

Obtain State Licensure

Once you’ve passed the national exam, you’ll need to obtain state licensure through the state’s veterinary medical board. You will also need to complete any additional state requirements such as continuing education or additional exams.

Stay Up to Date With Technology

As a vet tech, you’ll need to stay up to date with the latest veterinary technology and trends. You can do this by attending conferences, taking courses, doing research online, and even following blogs and YouTube channels related to veterinary technology.

The Future of Vet Techs: AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) will likely play a major role in the future of veterinary technology. AI can be used to detect potential problems faster than ever before, offer personalized treatments more effectively, and reduce the risk of misdiagnosis. AI can also help to reduce the cost of vet care by automating certain services.

Conclusion

Becoming a vet tech is an exciting and rewarding career choice, and one that will only continue to grow as technology advances. By meeting the educational and licensing requirements, studying for the national exam, and keeping up with new trends, you’ll be more likely to succeed as a vet tech.