What is a Registered, Certified, or Licensed Veterinary Technician?

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital in Mesa, Arizona, we are proud to have a team of skilled professionals who provide the best care for your pets. Among the professionals in your veterinary team are veterinary technicians, a core component of day to day care. But what exactly is a registered, certified, or licensed veterinary technician (RVT/CVT/LVT), and what role do they play in your pet’s care?

What is a Veterinary Technician?

A veterinary technician is similar to a nurse in human healthcare. These highly trained professionals assist veterinarians in a variety of tasks, from gathering health information about patients to diagnostic and clinical procedures. While the official title of a veterinary technician may vary based on the state (Registered, Certified, or Licensed), the core of their training and responsibilities remains the same. 

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, our veterinary technicians play an integral role in providing compassionate, high-quality care. They work closely with our veterinarians to ensure every pet receives the medical attention they need. 

Education and Certification

Becoming a veterinary technician requires dedication to both education and continued professional development. Here’s what the process looks like:

  1. Complete an Accredited Program: Aspiring veterinary technicians must complete a two- to four-year program from a school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
  2. Pass the VTNE: After completing the educational program, veterinary technicians must pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to become credentialed. Each state may have additional certification or licensing requirements.
  3. Continuing Education: To maintain their credentials, veterinary technicians must complete continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in veterinary medicine.

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, we ensure that all of our veterinary technicians are well-trained and certified, so you can trust your pet is in expert hands. 

Responsibilities of a Veterinary Technician

Veterinary technicians are essential in the day-to-day operations of a veterinary hospital. Their responsibilities are varied and often depend on the specific needs of each patient. Some common tasks include:

  • Assisting with surgeries: Veterinary technicians help prepare animals for surgery, monitor anesthesia, and assist veterinarians during procedures.
  • Performing diagnostic tests: They collect blood samples, take X-rays, and run lab tests to help diagnose illnesses.
  • Providing nursing care: From administering medications to caring for hospitalized pets, veterinary technicians ensure that animals are comfortable and receive the best possible care.
  • Client communication: Veterinary technicians often educate pet owners about post-surgical care, medication administration, and preventative health measures.

Why Veterinary Technicians Matter

Veterinary technicians are the backbone of any veterinary practice. Significant attention and care goes into each pet that come through our doors, and our veterinarians can’t do it alone.   A veterinary technician’s combination of medical knowledge, technical skills, and compassion makes them an invaluable part of your pet’s healthcare team. Whether they are taking X-rays, monitoring anesthesia during surgery, or comforting a nervous pet, veterinary technicians are committed to ensuring that every patient receives everything they need during their stay.

At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, we rely on our veterinary technicians to provide the high level of care that our clients and their pets expect. When you bring your pet in for routine visits, such as vaccinations or dental cleanings, you can be sure that a skilled veterinary technician will be there to assist with every step of the process.

Conclusion

Veterinary technicians play a vital role in the health and well-being of your pets. They are dedicated professionals who have undergone extensive training and certification to provide the highest quality care. At Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital, our veterinary technicians are a crucial part of our team, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible medical attention.

For more information on the role of veterinary technicians or to schedule an appointment, contact us today!