Both veterinary technicians and assistants play essential roles in veterinary field. They provide the necessary support to veterinarians so they are able to perform to the best of their ability. We often find confusion around who does what. Here is a break down of the difference between vet techs and assistants.
Education
The main difference that separates vet techs from assistants is their schooling and certifications. First, aspiring veterinary technicians must graduate from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and receive a degree. The next step is to pass the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination), an exam that deems them qualified to advance the level of care they are able to provide. Once both the program and the exam have been completed, they will then be licensed, registered, or certified depending on state regulations. While vet assistants usually only require a high school degree for an entry level position. Depending on the state, some might complete additional certification through a program, however this is not a universal requirement to qualify for the position. They receive most of their training on the job.
Responsibilities
Vet techs have responsibilities that resemble a nurse in human healthcare.
- Medical testing such as bloodwork and other samples
- Draw blood
- Place catheters
- Assist with surgery and complex procedures
- Administer anesthesia
Take diagnostic images such as X-rays. They act as the main assistant for veterinarians and doctors. Depending on state regulations, technicians may perform more complex procedures, administer medication, and perform certain tasks under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Vet assistants primarily assist techs and doctors. They ensure that the delivery of patient care goes as smoothly as possible. Their responsibilities include:
- Cleaning & maintaining equipment
- Feeding & bathing patients
- Aid in stabilization during procedures
- Perform basic lab work
Vet techs can also use these acronyms:
LVT: Licensed Veterinary Technician
- CVT: Certified Veterinary Technician
RVT: Registered Veterinary Technician
LVMT: Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician
These acronyms refer to the same position, however terminology depends on state regulations.
Special Certifications for Vet Technicians
Vet technicians are able to receive additional, specialty certifications from The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) Committee of Veterinary Technician Specialties (CVTS). Some of these certifications include:
- Anesthesia and Analgesia
- Behavior
- Clinical Pathology
- Clinical Practice
- Dentistry
- Dermatology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Emergency and Critical Care
- Equine Nursing
- Internal Medicine
- Laboratory Animal Medicine
- Nutrition
- Ophthalmology
- Physical Rehabilitation
- Surgery
- Zoology Medicine
Fear Free Certified Professional
The Fear Free certification program is designed to equip vet techs with the tools necessary to maintain a calm, stress-free patient. The main goal of this program is to give vet techs the knowledge necessary to alleviate anxiety and fear. The focus mostly on handling methods used with animals to promote a relaxed demeanor.
Rehabilitation
There are a few options in the US for rehabilitation certification:
University of Tennessee offers 3 programs:
- Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner
- Certified Equine Rehabilitation Program
- Certified Canine Fitness Trainer
Another option that is specific to canines is available through the Canine Rehab Institute called the Certified Canine Rehabilitation Veterinary Technician or Nurse (CCRVT or CCRVN)
Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP)
This certification is offered by the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) and it focuses on pain management in animals which is a vital part of veterinary care. This program is open to any licensed veterinary professional and requires an application process.
Certified Veterinary Practice Manager
For techs that have an interest in practice management this certification is offered by The Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA). This program involves studying areas such as human resources, law & ethics, marketing, organization, and finance in relation to veterinary practices.
RECOVER
RECOVER is a certification intended for those who desire to expand their abilities to include veterinary CPR. There are two options for this certification, Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS). This program is accredited through The American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC).
Veterinary care is a growing field with an endless need for new veterinary professionals. As of 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a growth rate of 16% for the profession from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all other occupations.