If you have a passion for animals, you may be considering a career as a vet assistant or vet tech. It is important to know the differences between these careers before you make a decision. They perform similar jobs, but their education requirements and pay are different. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' job statistics can give you an idea of the job outlook for these professionals.
Veterinarian assistants and vet technicians are employed in animal clinics and hospitals to treat patients. Both are responsible for the routine care of animals and can perform lab work. However, veterinary assistants often work in a less demanding capacity than veterinarians. They are often not involved with anesthesia or the analysis of lab samples.
However, vet techs are responsible for more difficult tasks and more patient care. Among their common tasks are taking Xrays, administering medicine, and performing diagnostic imagery. Some veterinary technicians have the ability to operate veterinary equipment. They may be eligible to pursue specialty training, such as critical care or emergency care. These individuals are entitled to a higher salary.
According to BLS, the BLS expects that vet assistants and techs will grow by 16% between 2019-2020. Although both positions are relatively new, demand is expected to increase at a faster rate than other occupations. Particularly in demand are veterinary techs.
Because both jobs involve a lot of pressure, vet assistants and techs have to be comfortable with the physical and emotional demands of their jobs. It is also important for them to be able to step in when needed.
A two-year veterinary technician training program is required in order to be a certified vet tech. After graduating, you will be required to take an exam to become certified. Based on your education, experience and qualifications, you could earn $35,320 per year.
For example, vet assistants don't need to complete a formal education program. Many technicians and veterinarians hire assistants with a high-school diploma or GED. Though a veterinary assistant may have some administrative duties, such as answering client questions, the majority of their duties are clerical. A veterinary assistant is often hired to provide clerical assistance, such as answering phone calls or organizing the clinic.
Both careers are rewarding but a vet tech is a better option if you're looking for a more lucrative career. Techs will be more likely to receive higher salaries and have better opportunities for advancement. Techs can also pursue technical specialties such as zoology medicine or dental technology. It is also worth noting the fact that a higher salary might make it easier to pay for education.
Overall, the BLS reported that veterinarians, vet assistants, and techs have good job prospects. Employment growth is predicted to be more than average for all occupations, with a projected 19% increase in jobs over the next decade.
FAQ
Do I decide to get a dog or a cat?
It really depends on who you are. Some people prefer kittens to puppies.
In general, however, puppies are more active and playful. Kittens usually sleep a lot and are very gentle.
Both types require a lot from their owners. They will grow up quickly and need a lot of care.
They will also need to be checked on a regular basis. Also, they will require regular medical checkups so you'll have to spend time taking them to see the vet.
What do you do if your dog bites somebody?
First, make sure the animal isn't rabid if you are attacked. If this is impossible, you can call for help. Do not attempt to solve the problem yourself. You may get seriously injured.
If the animal bites, but is not aggressive then you can take it to a vet clinic. Your vet will examine the animal and decide if any additional treatment is required.
In most cases, rabies shots will be required. These should never be administered yourself. Only a qualified person should administer these.
Is it a good idea to spay/neuter your dog?
Yes! It is important to spay and neuter your dog.
It helps reduce unwanted puppies and reduces the risk for certain diseases.
Female dogs are more likely to get breast cancer than male dogs.
Males are at greater risk for testicular cancer than their female counterparts.
Spaying and neutering your pet also prevents her from having babies.
What are some things to consider before purchasing an exotic pet
Before you purchase an exotic pet, you should think about these things. You must decide whether you plan to keep the animal or sell it. If you plan to keep it as a pet, make sure you have enough room. You also need to know how much time you'll spend caring for the animal. Although it takes time to care and love an animal, it is well worth the effort.
You must find someone to purchase your animal if you intend to sell it. You must ensure that the person purchasing your animal knows all about taking care of them. You should not feed the animal too often. This could lead later to health problems.
You should research every aspect of exotic pets before you buy them. Many websites can provide information on various species of pets. Be careful not to fall into any scams.
Statistics
- In fact, according to ASPCA, first-year expenses can sum up to nearly $2,000. (petplay.com)
- It is estimated that the average cost per year of owning a cat or dog is about $1,000. (sspca.org)
- Pet insurance helps pay for your pet's medical care, with many policies covering up to 90 percent of your vet bills. (money.com)
- Monthly costs are for a one-year-old female mixed-breed dog and an under one-year-old male domestic shorthair cat, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
- Here's a sobering reality: when you add up vaccinations, health exams, heartworm medications, litter, collars and leashes, food, and grooming, you can expect a bill of at least $1,000 a year, according to SSPCA. (bustle.com)
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How To
How to choose a good name for your pet?
When adopting a pet, the name you choose for them is one of your most important decisions. You want your pet's name to reflect their personality.
You need to think about how others may refer to you. Finally, think about how you'd like to be referred. What do you prefer, for example, "dog" or pet?
These are some tips to get you started.
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Choose a name that is appropriate for your dog's breed. Look up names that are associated with the breed if you are familiar with it (e.g. Labradoodle). Ask someone who has a deep understanding of dogs for suggestions on naming a dog after the breed.
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Be aware of the meaning behind the name. Some breeds are named after people and places while others are simply nicknames. The name "Rover," for example, was given to a Labrador Retriever because he was always running around!
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What would you prefer to be called? Would you rather call your dog "dog", or "pet"? Would you call your dog "Puppy" or "Buddy"?
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Make sure to include the owner's name. It is a smart idea to give your dog a name that includes both your first and last names. However, it doesn't mean you should limit yourself to just including the names of family members. Your dog might grow up to be a member your family.
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Many pets may have more than one name. A cat may have many names, depending on where she is located. At home, she could be called "Kitty Cat", but when visiting friends, "Molly". This is especially true for cats who live outside. They will often adapt their names to match their environment.
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Be creative There are no rules stating that you have to stick to one naming convention. Just make sure that you choose something unique and memorable.
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Check that your chosen name isn't used by any other person or group. So you don't accidentally steal someone's identity.
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Last but not least, don't forget to remember that choosing a name can be a complicated process. Sometimes it takes time before you can determine if the name is right. Keep at it until you find the right match.