What is a Veterinary Technician?

Veterinary technicians are the skilled professionals who work alongside veterinarians to provide compassionate care for animals of all kinds.

If you have a passion for animal welfare and seek a hands-on healthcare career, then it makes sense to understand the veterinary technician role. We’ll discuss that in detail. In the meantime, head over to RCC’s Veterinary Technician AAS program, which is accredited by the AVMA CVTEA, to learn more about developing the skills for this career.

What Is a Veterinary Technician?

A vet tech, short for veterinary technician, is the animal-care equivalent of a nurse. They’re trained professionals who support veterinarians in clinics, hospitals, and shelters by doing the hands-on work that keeps animals healthy and cared for.

Think of vet techs as a nurse, laboratory technician, and patient advocate all in one.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Veterinary Technician

As a veterinary technician, you’ll become an essential part of the animal healthcare team. Your key responsibilities include:

Performing diagnostic tests
Administering medications
Preparing animals for surgery
Working under a veterinarian’s supervision
Monitoring anesthesia during procedures
Providing nursing care to animals recovering from illness or surgery
Educating pet owners about proper care and treatment plans

At Rockford Career College, we prepare you for these hands-on duties through training that directly aligns with what veterinary practices need.

Where Do Veterinary Technicians Work?

As a vet tech, you’ll find diverse career opportunities in the Rockford area and beyond. Your skills can open doors to various work environments, including:

Private veterinary clinics and animal hospitals
Specialty and emergency animal medical centers
Research laboratories and facilities throughout Illinois and Wisconsin
Zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers
Animal shelters and rescue organizations
Conservation projects and wildlife management programs

Many of our graduates successfully transition into these settings where they provide essential support to veterinary teams and contribute directly to animal health and welfare.

How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Veterinary Technician?

You can complete your veterinary technician training in about 2 years through an associate degree program.

The Veterinary Technician Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree at Rockford Career College is designed to prepare you for the workplace efficiently while meeting AVMA CVTEA accreditation standards.

Is It Hard to Become a Veterinary Technician?

Becoming a vet tech involves dedication and preparation. The path requires completing specialized training and passing state licensing exams, but your passion for animal care can help you succeed.

At Rockford Career College, we understand the challenges – from learning to handle difficult procedures to managing the emotional aspects of animal care.

The student services and career service departments are dedicated to holding your hand and supporting you to navigate the program and prepare you for life after graduation.

Veterinary Technician Salary

Data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics show the median pay for Vet Techs is around $45,980 per year. This figure can vary depending on location, employer, experience, and other factors.

FAQs

What Does a Vet Tech Do?

Veterinary technicians are the skilled nursing professionals of the animal healthcare world. You’ll perform laboratory testing, assist with surgeries, administer medications, and provide nursing care to patients.

What is the Difference Between a Vet and a Vet Tech?

While veterinarians diagnose conditions, prescribe treatments, and perform surgeries, you, as a vet tech, will provide critical support. Think of it this way: vets are like doctors, and you’ll function similarly to a nurse—providing essential care that keeps practices running smoothly.

What is the Difference Between a Vet Tech and a Vet Nurse?

You’ll have significantly more responsibilities as a vet tech than as a veterinary assistant. Vet techs complete formal education and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam to become credentialed. Veterinary assistants typically receive on-the-job training for basic tasks.

Final Thoughts

So, what is a veterinary technician? They are trained professionals who support vets in animal clinics. As a vet tech, you assist with surgeries, monitor anesthesia and provide preventive care. Vet techs play a crucial role in animal wellness.

Your journey starts with the right education and hands-on training. Our program is designed to fit your life with flexible options that work for busy students.

Ready to turn your love for animals into a rewarding career? Explore our Veterinary Technician AAS program today and discover how Rockford works for you. Take the first step toward making a difference in animal healthcare. Talk to us today to get started.