Becoming a licensed veterinary technician will present a world of opportunity- their services and knowledge will be utilized by animal hospitals, shelters, zoos, wildlife care centers, medical research facilities, etc. A veterinary technician will always find their true calling in an establishment that actively participates in the care and treatment of animals. The requirements for becoming a licensed veterinary technician are not daunting, however, but the knowledge needed is essential for this gratifying career and certain qualifications must be met.
In order to meet the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) requirements, an associate degree program must be completed at an accredited veterinary school. This degree can be obtained through a two year program, but with dedication and diligence. It is important to attend a recognized school of veterinary practice, as this will ensure a smooth transfer to a veterinary technician career. The schools are offered both online and offline, so choose a program that will easily correlate with your schedule. It is also pertinent that all the course requirements are met or exceeded, as completion is not enough. Your career will depend on your success in your courses.
Scoring an internship in the veterinary field will only add to your achievement. Working in a veterinary clinic or even an animal shelter will enable you to develop the necessary skills to practice after your degree is earned. The experience will directly relate to your vet tech schooling, thus the material will resonate with the clinical applications throughout your internship. Serving as an intern will also boost your resume’s appeal and serve as an advantage when applying for a job in your new career.
In addition to meeting the AVMA criteria, a state mandated exam will either grant or deny your veterinary technician license. The Veterinary Technician Exam is maintained and regulated by each state, so the curriculum and stipulations may vary from state to state. The test may be oral or written, depending on the state, and upon successful completion a license can be obtained.