Important Differences Between A Vet Assistant And Vet Technician

Wanting to join a career in the field of veterinary medicine makes one come across jobs like vet assistant and vet technician; a vet assistant and vet technician offer different careers in the field of veterinary medicine with each having a rewarding job of assisting veterinarians with the care of animals. Aspirants to these professions should carefully examine the differences between the two lines of work to decide which one would be best for them and their personal goals.

The important differences between a vet assistant and vet technician: 

Education and qualifications:

You need either a high school diploma or GED to become a veterinary assistant; you could join such an online program or join a clinic that is associated with a school you are attending. You will have to study for 6 months and learn about basic animal care, nutrition, and health and receive a certificate that would assist you getting work at a clinic. You could also work in clinics to receive basic training from a vet, with some vet having certain requirements to complete before they can really begin the job.

You need to enter an accredited vet tech school to become a veterinary technician; the duration could be for 2 to 4 years depending on whether you enroll full time or part time. These programs will teach vet tech students more about animal health care and the work of the veterinarian.

Those that are already vet assistant can become a vet tech by taking up online programs or accelerated programs. The requirements vary from state to state, with most requiring taking a state given exam to qualify for a license.

Responsibilities:

A veterinary assistant provides support to the veterinarian in the clinic; he takes information from owners about the animals, in addition to helping with the animals during the examination and assist during any procedures performed. They may also be in charge of administrative tasks such as bookkeeping and appointments as well as cleaning and sanitizing the visiting rooms following checkups.

A veterinary technician takes up more responsibilities than a veterinary assistant; he is involved in more technical tasks like anesthesia, radiography, and interpreting images from tests. He collects specimens for lab analysis and interprets the results, administers medication, and provides surgical assistance.

Salary:

The salary of veterinary assistants on an average is $9-12 per hour, or between 19,000 and 25,000 per year. With experience some make up to $31,000 per year in certain areas. Though the pay is not lucrative, this job can be trained for without much investment of time or money in additional education. This job is ideal for one looking for an additional source of income and who is looking for exposure to the field with an interest in advancing at a later date.

Their additional education gives vet techs an edge over vet assistant; they are paid between $12-15 per hour, and $25,000-$31,000 per year, with higher salaries coming with experience and in certain regions. Since vet techs are trained, there is a bit more room for advancement in salary and responsibility as the person gains experience.

Career opportunities:  

There is very less room for advancement for veterinary assistants without some additional education, such as vet tech school. They may be able to earn more with experience, some on the job training and when they take on some additional responsibilities; it depends on their employer. They could work in veterinary clinics or zoos that offer appeal to certain candidates.

Veterinary technicians work not only with veterinarians in clinics and zoos, but also in pharmaceutical companies or research. A veterinary technician might be a better fit for one that wishes to make a career out of working with animals and can afford the time and money to attend a little additional schooling.

Last but most important both vet assistants as well as vet techs offer valuable services to veterinarians and the animals they serve. They also give people the chance to find rewarding work with animals and to make a difference each day.

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