Careers in Human and Animal Health

Veterinary Technician

Job Description

An animal health technician helps the veterinarian with testing programs and inspections of livestock. He or she may work at a racing stable helping care for horses or may assist in the operation of a small animal hospital. Veterinarian technicians may also be employed in laboratories doing biological research, in zoos or in meat-packing companies. Duties may include recordkeeping; animal care and feeding; preparing animals, instruments, equipment and medication for surgery; collecting specimens; applying wound dressings and assisting a veterinarian in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures; answering the phone and making appointments.

Skills

• A veterinarian technician must have knowledge of farm animals and be able to handle large animals

Preparation

High school courses in science, physiology, health and vocational agriculture and farm livestock experience.