Make your life your art. It doesn't have to be that you're an artist. I know I talk about art a lot, but I mean a very broad thing with that. You could be a veterinarian, that's your art. Find your art; find your thing you love. ~ Gerard Way
What is a Registered Veterinary Technician?
An RVT is an educated and trained professional who practices animal health care alongside veterinarians and scientists. RVTs allow veterinarians to provide a higher level of care to all animals by performing diagnostic procedures, administering treatments, and monitoring patients. If you are interested in animal medicine and welfare, this growing profession offers challenging career opportunities.
An RVT is similar to other careers in the healthcare field. They must have a strong knowledge of medical terminology, all major body systems, common ailments, their symptoms, and treatments. If you are interested in veterinary medicine and your high school doesn't have an animal science pathway, it would benefit you to take the following courses:
- Medical Terminology
- Medical Front Office
- Medical Assistant
- Sports Medicine
- Chemistry
- Biology
Not all RVT positions are the same...
Small Animal Medicine
Most RVTs work in private veterinary practices that provide healthcare-related services for companion animals, such as dogs and cats, birds, rabbits, and other small animals. The RVT’s responsibilities are challenging and varied.
These responsibilities include:
- critical care nursing
- administering medications to patients
- applying bandages and splints
- collecting and analyzing laboratory samples
- producing radiographs
- inducing and monitoring anesthesia
- providing dental care
- assisting in surgery
In addition, RVTs are actively involved in counseling clients about health care, nutrition, and the human-animal bond.
Small Animal Quizzes
Equine Medicine
RVTs who are employed by an equine practice provide many of the same medical services for horses that are received by small animals. These individuals often work outdoors, as many of the diagnostic procedures and treatments are administered in the field. More involved treatments and surgeries occur at large, modern equine hospitals. Some RVTs work at racetracks, endurance rides and other equine events.
Equine Quizzes
Food Animal Medicine
Veterinary practices that serve farms and ranches employ technicians to collect laboratory samples and administer vaccines for food animal species such as cattle, swine and sheep. RVTs with specialized training are in high demand by the dairy and beef industries to assist with herd health and artificial insemination.
Food Animal Quizzes
Zoo & Wildlife Medicine
Zoos employ RVTs as keepers or to assist in medical facilities and nurseries. RVTs may also be utilized as research technicians in wildlife breeding centers or natural habitats. Wildlife education and rehabilitation is also an important aspect of this field. This specialty provides the opportunity to develop specialized skills and interact with rare and beautiful creatures.
Lab Animal Science
Career opportunities in the area of laboratory animal medicine include ensuring the physical health and psychological wellbeing of research animals, as well as providing training and technical support for animal studies. These opportunities take place in a vareity of workplace settings such as universities, hospitals, and private industry.. One of the most exciting aspects of this field is the chance to perform cutting-edge research using state of the art equipment.
RVTs with experience in lab animal science can also hold positions as supervisors and managers monitoring the day-to-day operations of an animal facility.
Lab Animal Science Quizzes
Regulatory Medicine
This varied field employs RVTs to protect the well being of animals. RVTs working for animal control agencies provide medical care for stray animals and educate the public about responsible pet ownership. RVTs may also work for agencies that inspect farms, kennels, pet stores, veterinary hospitals and research facilities to assure humane and healthful conditions.
Regulatory Medicine Quizzes
Teaching
One of the most rewarding experiences for RVTs is to be able to share their knowledge. RVTs are employed by colleges and universities to teach prospective technicians and veterinarians. They may also be involved in instructing high school students and introducing children to the world of veterinary medicine.
Veterinary Practice Management
Experienced RVTs may assume the responsibilities of administrating an entire veterinary hospital. Responsibilities in this role could include hiring and training personnel, maintaining inventory, and devising programs to provide better service. In addition they assure that the practice meets or exceeds all government regulations, analyze financial data for any trends.
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
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