Information About A Career As A Veterinary Nurse?

Answer 1

A veterinary nurse, also known as a veterinary technician or assistant, can find employment in a number of different settings such as private veterinary practices and zoos. Working under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian, veterinary nurses are responsible for various aspects of animal health and treatment. Typical tasks performed by veterinary nurses include urinalysis, taking blood samples, caring for an animal's teeth, taking and developing e-rays, and assisting veterinarians with any other diagnostic or laboratory tests necessary. When it comes to working with animals, few veterinary nurses will work with both small and large breed animals. Therefore, individuals interested in pursuing a career as a veterinary nurse should decide which type of animal practice they would like to work in so that their education can be tailored accordingly.

In order to obtain a job as a veterinary nurse, an individual should complete an associate's degree in veterinary nursing and technology which will include courses in animal behavior, animal nutrition, Biology, and anatomy. Once an individual have successfully completed an associate's degree in the field, a final, comprehensive examination will be administered before a graduate is allowed work as a veterinary nurse. Although there may be some variation in examination requirements by state, the most common exam given to graduates is the National Veterinary Technician test. Regardless of which test is given, graduates should expect to complete an oral, written and practical section to obtain proper licensure and certification. For those interested in increasing their career options and earning potential, bachelor's, master's and doctoral level degrees are available within the field of veterinary medicine.

Depending on education and experience, the reported salary range for a veterinary nurse is between $20,147 and $42,387. For individuals new to the field, the estimated average salary is between $20,147 and $30,959. For those who pursue a career in the veterinary nursing field, employment growth is expected to be extremely positive over the next few years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to see a 36 percent increase in job opportunities by 2018.