English114
Feb 1, 2014
Career Research Investigation
Veterinary technicians, commonly known as veterinary technicians, provide care and comfort to sick or injured animals. They work with veterinarians or scientists in a way that is similar to the help a nurse gives to a doctor. Many people become attracted to this occupation because of a love of animals, but there is a downside, both physically and emotionally. Animals may bite, scratch or otherwise injure veterinary technicians who are caring for them. There is an emotional toll that comes from seeing the results of abuse or abandonment, and from having to euthanize ill or injured animals.
Some of the specific tasks of a veterinary technician include checking vital …show more content…
Dealing with the death of pets and distraught owners can have an effect on these professionals. Exposure to allergens like pet dander and fur, along with radiation are just some of the health issues vet technicians must deal with on a day-to-day basis. Combine all of that with playing multiple roles throughout the day - receptionist, nurse, kennel attendant, technical assistant, janitor, and counselor - and you 've got yourself one heck of a work day. Unpredictable Animals: When an animal feels threatened or alarmed, it will try to defend itself. And when in an unfamiliar area the situation could turn ugly, especially when the animal is sick or in pain. In these cases, the animals are more likely to scratch or bite. Odd Hours: Depending on the employer and his/her expectations, vet technicians may be expected to work on nights and/or weekends. Inclement weather may not be exempt either. Some of the pros of working as a veterinary technician are Pay: While a veterinary technician isn 't necessarily going to start off at $20 an hour, this figure is a possibility depending on the location of the practice and the amount of experience in the field. And with room to grow within the field, the likelihood of a raise isn 't out. Room for Advancement: Veterinary technicians have the option to develop within their field, which translates to more money and opportunities. With an extra two years of education a veterinary tech may become veterinary technologist. This position entails working in biomedical facilities, wildlife facilities, diagnostic laboratories, food safety inspection facilities, and drug and food manufacturing companies. Flexibility: Along the same lines of the point above, vet techs have flexibility to work in a diverse set of environments, not just in a local