Veterinarian Technician/Technologist

To be a successful Veterinarian Technician/Technologist you should…

• enjoy working with people and animals
• be a self-starter

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What will my job be like?

Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians in many ways. Their  responsibilities include laking X-rays; performing laboratory  tests; obtaining and recording information about cases; and  preparing animals, instruments, equipment, and medication for  examination and surgery.  Technicians/technologists may also  manage an office and coordinate hospital care.

Where could I work?

Veterinary technicians/technologists work in private veterinary  centers, diagnostic and research laboratories, veterinary supply  businesses,  schools of veterinary medicine, and other areas dealing with animal care.

Other workplace settings:

• Agribusiness
• Biomedical Research
• Governmental Agencies
• Herd Health Managers
• Humane Societies
• Military Service
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Teaching
• Zoo/Wildlife Medicine
• Retail Stores

What is the average annual salary?

$43,400

What is the future of this career?

Employment of veterinary technologists and technicians is projected to grow 20 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment is expected to grow as veterinarians continue to use technicians and technologists to do general care and lab work on household pets.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

The course of formal study entails at least two academic years,  leading to an Associate in Applied Science or equivalent degree,  with 4-year degrees available at some institutions. Veterinary  technicians are trained through an accredited technical associate  degree program in the community college system. Veterinary technologists are trained through an accredited baccalaureate  degree program in a 4·year college or university.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Asnuntuck Community College, Enfield
• Manchester Community College, Manchester
• Post University, Waterbury
• Tunxis Community College, Farmington

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?