Veterinary Technician Job Description

No matter whether you choose to work in a veterinary clinic, a zoo or a research laboratory, the role of a vet tech is full of exciting and rewarding challenges. When you work in the care of animals, you have a direct impact on the life of another living creature. That is why the field of veterinary technology is such an admirable career.

In veterinary technician specialties involving diverse work environments, such as zoos and laboratories, the veterinary technician job may involve slightly different responsibilities than a clinic. In a laboratory for example, you may work under the supervision of a scientist or senior technologist. Here, the focus is on scientific research that will benefit humans and animals alike. Your primary responsibility, though, is still the humane care of the animals.

For routine procedures on a day-to-day level, your veterinary tech training will provide you with the skills to perform the following tasks:

• Obtain and record patient case histories
• Collect specimens and perform laboratory procedures
• Provide specialized nursing care
• Prepare animals, instruments and equipment for surgery
• Assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures
• Expose and develop x-rays
• Supervise and train practice personnel
• Stock and maintain medicines and supplies