A Veterinary Technician, as defined by the American Veterinary Medical Association, is a “graduate of an AVMA accredited program in Veterinary Technology.” These professionals assist veterinarians and other scientists in capacities similar to registered nurses and other medical assistants in the field of human medicine. Licensed Veterinary Technicians are qualified to perform any and all duties within the veterinary setting as outlined in the Alabama Veterinary Practice Act, with the exception of prescribing medication, diagnosing illness, and performing surgery, which are reserved only for Licensed Veterinarians.
The Veterinary Technology profession needs people who love animals, can be compassionate toward sick and injured animals and be dedicated to Veterinary Medicine. Many technicians work in private veterinary practices, the majority of them in small animal clinics (companion animals). However, the field of Veterinary Technology is very broad with many openings available, especially in private practices, biomedical research, teaching institutions (veterinary schools), zoo/wildlife medicine, livestock health management, veterinary supply, and pharmaceutical companies.
