Veterinary technicians and technologists provide important services for animal owners and veterinarians. They often check in patients, perform routine exams and in some instances counsel the owners on proper care and treatment of their beloved pet.
Training
Educational paths include a two-year degree program to become a veterinary technician, or a four-year degree path to become a veterinary technologist. Veterinary technologists can find increased career opportunities and salary expectations, in research facilities and wildlife sanctuaries for instance, because of the additional training and education they receive. Both careers require certification or licensure by their respective State Board of Veterinary Examiners by passing the National Veterinary Technician exam.
Salary
The median annual wages of veterinary techs was $28,900 as of May 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics finds that students who pursue a veterinary technologist degree may earn more because of the additional employment opportunities in research facilities.
Future Expectations
The upper 10 percent of wage earners in the field earned over $41,490 annually as of May 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, between 2008 and 2018 the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment in the field, for veterinary technicians and technologists, to increase by 36 percent.
Tags: Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, 2008 according, 2008 according Bureau, according Bureau
