Pet owners know them as Veterinary Technicians or Nurses, and veterinary practices know them as Miracle Workers. They’re the clinic’s Jack of All Trades, Master of All. That’s why they get a whole week in October dedicated to them—in Canada, they get the whole month! If we take a moment to recognize even just a few of their responsibilities, you will likely appreciate them year-round.
Consider that these examples can apply to pets other than cats and dogs, such as birds, reptiles, small mammals, horses, farm animals, and wildlife.
Surgery
- Perform many, if not most, aspects of anesthesia, including IV catheter placement to administer sedation or anesthesia to keep your pet comfortable, endotracheal intubation, and monitoring your pet’s vital signs like temperature, oxygen levels, heart, and respiratory rates
- Prepare and clean the surgical area and assist the veterinary surgeon if needed
- Clean and polish your pet’s teeth
- Continue to monitor your pet as he recovers in a cozy area, comforting him as he wakes up
- Prepare medications and homecare instructions for you when it’s time to bring him home
Diagnostics
- Draw blood from your pet calmly and efficiently, so he hardly knows it happened
- Collect urine and fecal samples, sometimes analyzing them at the clinic for the veterinarian
- Prepare samples for specialized testing, including the lab paperwork
- Perform X-rays while keeping your pet safe and comfortable
Hospitalization
- Set your pet up for hospitalization, including intravenous fluids, oxygen support, medications, and housing
- Administer treatments as prescribed by the veterinarian at timed intervals or as needed
- Keep a detailed diary of your pet’s vitals, hydration, appetite, behavior, comfort level, and other details as required by the veterinarian
- Advocate for your pet when reviewing his condition with the attending veterinarian
- Keep you updated on your pet’s progress and ensure your questions are answered
Appointments
- Routine nail trims, ear cleaning, anal gland expression, or even teaching you how to do them!
- Post-operative incision rechecks, suture removal, bandage changes
- Administer injectable medication and therapeutic laser therapy
- Demonstrate how to give different types of medication and subcutaneous (under the skin) fluids to your pet at home
Emergencies
- Triage your pet to ensure he is prioritized appropriately
- If necessary, stabilize your pet until the veterinarian can see him (e.g., control bleeding, pain medication, oxygen support, temperature control)
- Assist the veterinarian during an emergency procedure (e.g., cesarean section, laceration repair, foreign body removal, unblocking a cat, blood transfusion, CPR)
Continuing Education and Licensing
Beyond the college education vet techs/nurse complete to qualify for their roles, they must be licensed to practice in most veterinary settings. To remain licensed, learn new skills, and stay informed about new practices and research, a minimum number of approved continuing education hours are required yearly.
This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive—and what isn’t covered in the job description: all types of bodily fluids (on their skin, scrubs, and hair), covering reception duties, missed breaks, extended shifts, aggressive animals, and exposure to infectious diseases.
Now, you’re likely convinced that your pet’s veterinary clinic couldn’t operate without its heroic veterinary technicians/nurses. You might even want to show your appreciation for all the important work they do! Here are a few ideas to show your appreciation any time of the year:
- Say, “Thank you.”
- Send a thank you card with a photo of your pet doing well at home.
- Write a positive review on social media or the clinic’s website and mention how each team member contributed to your and your pet’s experience.
- If your pet has an extended hospital stay, consider sending treats or healthy snacks, such as muffins, cookies, a fruit tray, or even a box of hot coffee with all the fixings!