Growth Trends for Related Jobs

How to Become a Veterinary Nurse

careertrend article image
Thinkstock/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Veterinary nurses, often called veterinary technicians, work alongside veterinarians caring for animals. They assist with surgeries, treat wounds, perform tests and administer medication to a variety of animals, from house pets such as dogs and cats to exotic birds and reptiles. Some veterinary nurses perform administrative duties. While the requirements to become a veterinary nurse vary from state to state, most states require the completion of a formal training program.

careertrend article image
monkeybusinessimages/iStock/Getty Images

Take high school courses in biology, chemistry and math. Obtain a high school diploma.

careertrend article image
Suprijono Suharjoto/iStock/Getty Images

Complete a two year associate degree in veterinary technology from a community college with a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, or AVMA. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduating from an accredited program allows you to take the exam to become a credentialed veterinary technician.

careertrend article image
Levent Konuk/iStock/Getty Images

Take the National Veterinary Technician exam. Most states require a passing score on this exam to become a licensed or certified veterinary technician. The exam includes written, oral and practical components.

careertrend article image
Byelikova_Oksana/iStock/Getty Images

Apply for entry-level jobs in veterinary clinics and hospitals, animal shelters, zoos, and boarding facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is more competition for jobs in aquariums and zoos.

Tip

Refer to the AVMA's website for a directory of accredited veterinary technology programs by state (see resources).

While attending a veterinary technician program, consider volunteering at a local zoo or animal shelter. The more experience you have working with animals, the easier it will be to get a job after graduation.

Warning

Before enrolling in a veterinary technology program, consider shadowing a veterinary technician to make sure you will be comfortable performing the duties that will be required of you. Although veterinary nursing can be a rewarding career for animal lovers, it can be emotionally difficult. Veterinary technicians often perform euthanasia on sick or unwanted animals, and they see the results of abuse and neglect.

Tips
  • Refer to the AVMA's website for a directory of accredited veterinary technology programs by state (see resources).
  • While attending a veterinary technician program, consider volunteering at a local zoo or animal shelter. The more experience you have working with animals, the easier it will be to get a job after graduation.
Warnings
  • Before enrolling in a veterinary technology program, consider shadowing a veterinary technician to make sure you will be comfortable performing the duties that will be required of you. Although veterinary nursing can be a rewarding career for animal lovers, it can be emotionally difficult. Veterinary technicians often perform euthanasia on sick or unwanted animals, and they see the results of abuse and neglect.
Writer

This article was written by the CareerTrend team, copy edited and fact checked through a multi-point auditing system, in efforts to ensure our readers only receive the best information. To submit your questions or ideas, or to simply learn more about CareerTrend, contact us [here](http://careertrend.com/about-us).

Photo Credits

Thinkstock/Stockbyte/Getty Images