Published on October 16, 2023 in Hospital Team Members
During Veterinary Technician Week, we take a moment to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the unsung heroes of pet care—the veterinary technicians. These dedicated professionals play a vital role in the health and well-being of your beloved pets. Their diverse skill set and compassionate care make them indispensable members of any veterinary team.
What exactly do veterinary technicians do for your pets?
1. Patient Care
Veterinary technicians monitor your pet during their entire stay at the clinic and are able to detect subtle changes in your pet’s behavior and vital signs, ensuring that pets are comfortable and safe during their stay at the clinic.
They confirm which vaccinations your pet needs and administers them. They understand and educate the pet guardian on the importance of vaccines. They are responsible for recording medical histories and treatment plans.
Veterinary technicians have a deep understanding of animal behavior, making them adept at handling and comforting anxious or aggressive pets.
From minor injuries to post-surgical wounds, veterinary technicians skillfully dress and care for wounds to prevent infection and promote healing.
2. Surgery and Anesthesia
Veterinary technicians prepare surgical equipment, prepare your pet for surgery, and monitor your pet before, during, and after anesthesia. They monitor vital signs, administer the pre-anesthetic medications, anesthesia, and post-anesthetic medications. They ensure your pet is warm and comfortable during surgery. Veterinary technicians understand the intricacies for surgeries to run smoothly with minimal complications.
3. Diagnostic Procedures
Veterinary technicians perform radiographs (x-rays), assist with ultrasounds, and perform lab work, ensuring accurate and timely results to aid in treatment decisions. They are the main members of the hospital to perform venipuncture (draw blood) on your pets and can perform a wide range of laboratory tests, from blood work to fecal analysis.
4. Dentistry
Veterinary technicians work closely with veterinarians to perform a complete and oral health assessment and treatment for your pets. They perform dental cleanings (scaling and polishing), full mouth radiographs, alert the veterinarian to abnormalities in your pet’s mouth, and educate pet owners about proper oral care to prevent dental issues.
5. Client Education
Veterinary technicians educate pet owners on topics such as nutrition, parasite control, and post-surgical care, ensuring pets receive proper care at home, and much more.
6. Emergency and Critical Care
In emergency situations, veterinary technicians are the calming presence that can mean the difference between life and death for a pet. They stabilize patients, administer life-saving treatments, and assist with triage.
7. Pharmacy Management
Veterinary technicians manage the clinic’s pharmacy, dispensing medications and educating clients on proper administration.
8. End-of-Life Care
Veterinary technicians offer support and compassion to pet owners facing difficult decisions regarding euthanasia. They ensure a peaceful and respectful transition for pets.
Please take the time to thank our vet techs for their dedication to your pet’s health!