What does a Veterinary Technician do?
Veterinary Technicians can perform any task assigned by a supervising Veterinarian except for diagnosis, medication prescription and surgery. They observe animals’ behaviour and condition and report their findings to the Vet. Vet Techs also help Vets during physical examination of animal patients. They can also soothe frightened animals or restrain aggressive patients during exams and procedures.
Vet Techs may also administer treatments, medications and vaccines under the direction of the Veterinarian. They take and process X-rays, take blood and urine samples, run lab tests and also fill prescriptions. They may also perform specialist functions based on their training.
Veterinary Technician skills and qualifications
A successful Veterinary Technician will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications needed to perform their duties effectively. These skills and qualifications include:
- Ability to work with animals
- Knowledge of veterinary medical lab procedures
- In-depth understanding of veterinary health and safety procedures
- Ability to handle animals safely and compassionately
- Physical strength to lift heavy objects
- Excellent written and oral communications skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
Veterinary Technician experience requirements
Many employers require candidates to have at least two years of experience working as a Veterinary Technician or a related position. In specialist veterinary practices, the Vet Tech may need experience in specific disciplines such as dentistry, anaesthesia and diagnostic imaging. Vet Tech candidates must also have laboratory and clinical experience to run tests and administer medication. They must also be experienced in handling animals regardless of their temperament.
Veterinary Technician education and training requirements
Veterinary Technician candidates must have a foundation degree or bachelor’s degree in veterinary nursing from a programme accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Many employers consider candidates with a Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing or veterinary nursing advanced apprenticeship, but they must register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Some employers require candidates to obtain certifications in several aspects of veterinary medicine. These include certificates in pharmacy and pharmacology, surgical nursing, anaesthesia, pain management and critical care. Several training opportunities for Vet Techs are available from the British Veterinary Nursing Association.
Veterinary Technician salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Veterinary Technician in the United Kingdom is £22,219 per year. The actual pay varies depending on the employer, the candidate’s experience, required qualifications, areas of speciality, location of the business and exact job duties and responsibilities for a particular company.
Job description samples for similar positions
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