True or False: It takes two years to become a Veterinary Technician.

Answer: True

Veterinary Technicians are formally educated and trained professionals who work as integral members of your veterinary healthcare team. In general, Veterinary Technicians obtain two to four years of post-secondary education and graduate with a degree in veterinary technology (an associate degree after two years and a bachelor’s degree after four). 

Before practicing as a certified or registered Veterinary Technician, they must first pass a credentialing exam. And their education doesn’t stop there! They must keep up to date with continuing education to be considered licensed Veterinary Technicians (in some states this is called “registered” or “certified”). 

Veterinary Technicians receive education that provides them with the theory and practical skills essential to provide your pet with the best care. Some areas of their expertise include:

• x-ray technician (measures the body part to be x-rayed, properly sets the machine and holds the patient in position to obtain a diagnostic image)
• phlebotomist (draws blood) 
• anesthesiologist (calculates and administers the correct anesthetic dose)
• surgical nurse (assists with surgery)
• recovery nurse (helps the patient wake up and keeps them warm and comfortable as they regain consciousness)
• laboratory technician (runs tests on blood, urine and other samples)
• nutritionist (provides nutrition and diet counselling)
• pharmacist (prepares medications and educates you on how to administer them)

Veterinary Technicians are truly trained to do it all!