In addition to the satisfaction that comes with making a difference in the lives of animals, veterinary technicians enjoy relative job security. Animals will continue to require care, even in times of economic downturn. In fact, as people become more willing to pay for expensive surgical procedures and preventative pet care, the demand for veterinary technicians will likely increase. The upcoming retirement of many experienced veterinary technicians is also expected to lead to an increased demand for graduates of veterinary technician career training programs.

Experienced veterinary technicians can earn as much as $35,000 per year. Veterinary technicians who are certified Laboratory Animal Technologists or have supervisory responsibilities enjoy a higher earning capacity than their peers. Earnings also vary according to geographic area and place of employment.

In the United States, there are about 55,000 available jobs for experienced veterinary technicians. While most veterinary technicians are employed at private practice veterinary services, opportunities for employment also exist in animal shelters, stables, boarding kennels, zoos, and grooming shops. Few veterinary technicians are employed by local, State, or Federal government agencies.

The Fast Track to Success

Completion of the veterinary technician training program at puts students on the fast track to successful careers. Students study anatomy, chemistry, biology, and physiology in preparation for the California Registered Veterinary Technician State Board Examination. Completion of a clinical rotation and professional externship provides students with the hands-on experience they need to find permanent employment. To learn more about the veterinary technician career training program.

San Leandro residents who wish to turn their love of animals into a rewarding career can get the training they need to become veterinary technicians at . Classroom instruction provides students with a working knowledge of chemistry, biology, physiology, and anatomy. A clinical rotation and an externship give students the practical experience they need to be successful in the workplace.

Employment Opportunities for Veterinary Technicians

Most veterinary technicians work in veterinary services under the supervision of a private practice veterinarian. Their duties include performing lab tests, taking x-rays, obtaining patient histories, and providing nursing care to sick or injured animals. Veterinary technicians who work in this type of setting typically care for cats, dogs, fish, frogs, mice, and rats. Very few opportunities exist for veterinary technicians who wish to work with both companion animals and larger, non-domestic animals.

A number of veterinary technicians find employment at research facilities. This type of work generally involves vaccinating newly admitted animals, administering medications, preparing samples for lab examination, keeping experimental records, sterilizing equipment, and providing postoperative care. Supervision is typically provided by veterinarians, physicians, and experienced lab technicians.

Veterinary technicians who work at animal shelters or humane societies generally experience a more stressful work environment than their peers. They must frequently deal with pet owners who have been suspected of abusing or neglecting their animals. They must enforce current laws and regulations regarding proper animal care. Occasionally, they also must euthanize unwanted, aged, or injured animals.

Veterinary technicians enjoy a wide array of employment opportunities. Many choose to work in private clinics and animal hospitals. However, some veterinary technicians work in research facilities, governmental agencies, zoos, animal shelters, stables, grooming shops, and boarding kennels. The salary for experienced veterinary technicians is generally about $35,000 per year, although earning potential varies according to area of specialization, place of employment, and geographic location.

If you’re considering a career as veterinary technician, can provide the skills you need to excel in this rewarding profession. Taught by experienced instructors, students study chemistry, anatomy, biology, and physiology while gaining hands-on experience during an externship and clinical rotation. They learn the fundamentals of animal care, including surgical nursing procedures and how to perform laboratory tests.

Students to apply for the same federal financial aid opportunities they would receive at a major university. Students can use a combination of grants, loans, and work study funding to reduce their out-of-pocket educational expenses. To learn more about the veterinary technician career training program or to speak with a financial aid representative.

Obtaining a License to Practice

Most states have regulations that veterinary technician graduates must meet before seeking permanent employment. Veterinary technicians must generally complete an exam given by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. In some cases, they must also pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination before practicing.