What do Vet Technicians do?
1. Animal Handling and Restraint:
· Vet techs are trained in safe and effective animal handling and restraint techniques. This skill is crucial during physical examinations, treatments, and procedures to ensure the safety of both the animal and the veterinary team.
· They understand animal behavior and body language, allowing them to anticipate and manage potential stress or aggression in animals. They are there to make sure your animal feels happy and safe.
· Vet techs are responsible for basic animal care veterinary clinics, hospitals, zoos, animal shelters, wildlife rescues and more. This includes feeding, bathing and exercising animals as needed.
2. Diagnostic Procedures:
· Vet techs assist veterinarians by restraining for physical exams, obtaining medical histories, obtaining vital signs, preparing equipment, and microbiology cultures. They also prepare samples for testing and operating laboratory equipment.
· In addition to basic laboratory tests, vet techs may assist with more advanced diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound imaging, electrocardiography (ECG), and endoscopy.
· They help prepare patients for diagnostic imaging and assist in positioning animals correctly for procedures to obtain accurate results. Techs are trained to take and develop X-rays of animals under the direction of a veterinarian.
· In some cases, vet techs assist in animal rehabilitation and physical therapy programs, helping animals recover from injuries or surgeries.
3. Pharmacy and Medication Management:
· Vet techs are responsible for managing the pharmacy inventory, including ordering, stocking, and dispensing medications.
· They ensure proper labeling and dosage of medications, and they educate pet owners on medication administration techniques and potential side effects.
· Vet techs administer medications, fluids and vaccines as prescribed by the veterinarian. They also confirm dosages before administration.
4. Surgical Support:
· Before surgery begins the vet tech will place an IV catheter, intubate the animal, shave, sterilize the incision sight and make sure the patient’s vitals are looking good before entering the surgery suit.
· During surgical procedures, vet techs play a critical role in maintaining a sterile surgical environment.
· They assist veterinarians by handing instruments, suturing incisions, and monitoring the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure.
· Post-surgery, vet techs provide monitoring and care for animals in the recovery period, ensuring they wake up safely from anesthesia and monitoring for any signs of complications.
5. Emergency and Critical Care:
· In emergency situations, vet techs are often the first responders, providing immediate care and stabilization to injured or critically ill animals.
· They may perform life-saving interventions such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), administering oxygen therapy, and controlling bleeding until the veterinarian can take over.
6. Client Communication and Education:
· Vet techs act as a liaison between pet owners and veterinarians, conveying information about diagnosis, treatment options, and post-care instructions.
· They educate pet owners on topics such as nutrition, preventive care, parasite control, and behavior management to promote the health and well-being of their pets.
7. Animal Welfare Advocacy:
· Vet techs advocate for the welfare of animals by recognizing and reporting signs of abuse or neglect.
· They may work with animal welfare organizations or law enforcement agencies to investigate cases of animal cruelty and ensure that animals receive appropriate care and protection.
Overall, vet techs are skilled professionals who contribute to the compassionate care and treatment of animals across a wide range of veterinary settings. Their expertise and dedication play a vital role in supporting veterinarians and promoting the health and welfare of animals in their care.
Be sure to thank your Vet Techs for all that they do!