VET TECH SKILLS

As a veterinary technician, you will work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian and perform many of the same duties for a veterinarian that a nurse would for a physician. Aided by skilled veterinary technicians, veterinarians can focus their time on high-value activities such as diagnoses and surgeries.

Basic veterinary technician skills include:

• Obtaining and recording patient case histories
• Collecting specimens and performing laboratory procedures
• Providing specialized nursing care
• Preparing animals, instruments, and equipment for surgery
• Assisting in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures
• Exposing and developing radiographs (x-rays)
• Advising and educating animal owners
• Supervising and training practice personnel
• Performing dental prophylaxes

As a veterinary technician, you will also work with pet owners, so communication and decision-making skills are important. During your career, you will encounter pet owners being faced with medical conditions for their pet. This can be a stressful time for the pet owners and for you. It’s important that you are able to present yourself in a professional manner while you help the veterinarian and owners care for their animals.

A veterinary technician cannot diagnose, prescribe, perform surgery, or engage in any activity prohibited by a state's veterinary practice act. 

In order to get the most of out of your education and so you can master these skills, look for programs that offer hands-on learning opportunities, externships, and a clinical classroom setting.