Large Animal Veterinary Technicians: Careers In Animal Care
Animal lovers who want to work in the veterinary field have many career options, including becoming a large animal veterinary technician. These professionals play a crucial role in the care and well-being of large animals, such as horses, cows, and pigs. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, here's what you need to know.
Large animal veterinary technicians work closely with veterinarians to provide medical care to large animals. They may work on farms, ranches, or in veterinary clinics that specialize in large animal care. Some of the responsibilities of a large animal veterinary technician include:
- Taking and recording vital signs, such as temperature and blood pressure
- Administering medications and vaccinations
- Collecting and analyzing blood and urine samples
- Assisting with surgeries and other medical procedures
- Monitoring animal behavior and reporting any changes to the veterinarian
- Maintaining accurate records of animal medical history and treatment
To become a large animal veterinary technician, you typically need to complete a two-year associate's degree program in veterinary technology. These programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools and include both classroom and clinical training. Coursework may include topics such as:
- Anatomy and physiology of large animals
- Pharmacology and toxicology
- Radiology and imaging
- Surgical assisting
- Laboratory procedures
After graduating from a veterinary technology program, you can become certified by passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). This certification is offered by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) and is recognized in most states. To maintain certification, you must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to a code of ethics.
Large animal veterinary technicians can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Farms and ranches
- Veterinary clinics
- Equine hospitals
- Research facilities
- Zoos and wildlife sanctuaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of veterinary technicians is projected to grow 16% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for veterinary care, particularly for large animals.
Large animal veterinary technicians can earn a competitive salary, with median annual salaries ranging from $35,000 to over $50,000, depending on experience and location. Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for advancement.
If you're passionate about working with animals and want a rewarding career in the veterinary field, becoming a large animal veterinary technician may be the right choice for you. With the right education and training, you can provide high-quality care to large animals and make a difference in their lives.
Career Paths for Large Animal Veterinary Technicians
Large animal veterinary technicians have a variety of career paths to choose from, depending on their interests and goals. Here are some potential career paths:
- Equine veterinary technician: Work with horses, either in a clinical setting or on a farm or ranch.
- Livestock veterinary technician: Work with cows, pigs, and other livestock, either on a farm or in a veterinary clinic.
- Veterinary research technician: Assist with research studies involving large animals, either in a university or private research setting.
- Zoological veterinary technician: Work with exotic animals, such as those found in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Veterinary educator: Teach veterinary technology students at a community college or vocational school.
Skills and Qualities Needed
To be successful as a large animal veterinary technician, you'll need to possess certain skills and qualities, including:
- Compassion and empathy for animals
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Attention to detail and organizational skills
- Physical stamina and ability to lift and restrain animals
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Education and Training
To become a large animal veterinary technician, you'll need to complete a two-year associate's degree program in veterinary technology. These programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools and include both classroom and clinical training.
Coursework may include topics such as:
- Anatomy and physiology of large animals
- Pharmacology and toxicology
- Radiology and imaging
- Surgical assisting
- Laboratory procedures
Many programs are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and include clinical internships or practicum courses to provide hands-on experience.
After graduating from a veterinary technology program, you can become certified by passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). This certification is offered by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) and is recognized in most states.
Certification and Licensure
Certification is not always required, but it's highly recommended to become certified as a veterinary technician. The VTNE is a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and laboratory procedures.
To maintain certification, you must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to a code of ethics. Some states also require licensure to practice as a veterinary technician.
Job Outlook and Salary
The job outlook for large animal veterinary technicians is strong, with employment projected to grow 16% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for veterinary care, particularly for large animals.
Median annual salaries for large animal veterinary technicians range from $35,000 to over $50,000, depending on experience and location. Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for advancement.
Job Outlook by Industry
The job outlook for large animal veterinary technicians varies by industry. Here are some potential job outlooks by industry:
- Farms and ranches: Employment is projected to grow 10% from 2020 to 2030, driven by the increasing demand for livestock and dairy products.
- Veterinary clinics: Employment is projected to grow 15% from 2020 to 2030, driven by the increasing demand for veterinary care for large animals.
- Equine hospitals: Employment is projected to grow 20% from 2020 to 2030, driven by the increasing demand for equine veterinary care.
Gallery of Large Animal Veterinary Technicians
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a large animal veterinary technician?
+A large animal veterinary technician is a professional who works with veterinarians to provide medical care to large animals, such as horses, cows, and pigs.
What education and training are required to become a large animal veterinary technician?
+To become a large animal veterinary technician, you typically need to complete a two-year associate's degree program in veterinary technology and become certified by passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
What is the job outlook for large animal veterinary technicians?
+Employment of veterinary technicians is projected to grow 16% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.