Veterinary Technician

Exam

Third-party exam

Education

Degree

Experience

None

Background check

Specific type of conviction prohibited

A veterinary technician or technologist (vet tech) is knowledgeable in the care and handling of animals, basic principles of normal and abnormal life processes, and routine laboratory and clinical procedures. A vet tech is primarily an assistant to veterinarians, biological research worker, or other scientist. Duties that might be performed while assisting a practicing veterinarian include: obtaining and recording information about cases; preparing patients, instruments, and equipment for surgery; collecting specimens; performing certain laboratory procedures; dressing wounds; and assisting in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures. In general, the duties of a vet tech in a veterinary practice may include any part of the practice that does not involve diagnosis, prescription, surgery, or any other activities prohibited by the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Practice Act. All functions of a vet tech are performed under the immediate, direct, or indirect supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Requirements: 1) Must be a citizen of the United States or an applicant for citizenship. 2) Must be a person of moral integrity and acceptable ethical standards. 3) Must possess a diploma or its equivalent from a college-level program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. 4) Must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). 5) Must provide a letter of recommendation from a licensed veterinarian. Application Fee: $40.00, Annual Renewal Fee: $25.00, VTNE Fee: $340.00 (paid directly to the American Association for Veterinary State Boards)