Vet Tech Vs. Vet Assistant: What is The Difference?
Choosing a career in veterinary medicine offers the rewarding opportunity to work closely with animals and contribute to their well-being. However, the roles within this field can be confusing, especially when trying to understand the difference between a veterinary technician (vet tech) and a veterinary assistant (vet assistant). While both positions are essential to animal care, they differ in terms of education, job responsibilities, and licensing requirements. This article will explore these differences in detail to help you decide which path is the best fit for your career goals.
The Difference Between a Vet Assistant and Vet Tech
Techs and assistants have very similar roles in veterinary practices. However, vet techs are considered a step above vet assistants. While they mostly perform the same duties, there are certain responsibilities only available to vet techs.
What does a vet assistant do?
The day-to-day responsibilities of a vet assistant vary based on their experience and their employer. Vet assistants are the "do anything" members of a veterinary team, so they may do other miscellaneous tasks as assigned. In a veterinary clinic, a vet assistant can typically expect to…
- Handle and restrain animals
- Perform diagnostic imaging on patients
- Take blood samples and run lab tests
- Check and monitor vital signs for patients
- Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures
- Clean and/or prepare surgical equipment
- Perform clerical duties like scheduling appointments
What does a veterinary technician do?
Vet techs can do everything a vet assistant can with only a few differences. In addition to the duties listed above, veterinary technicians can also monitor anesthesia. Other than that, they perform most of the same day-to-day tasks. There may be some variations nationwide, as every state has slightly different criteria for vet assistants and vet techs.
Vet Assistant vs. Vet Tech Education & Licensing
One of the primary differences between vet techs and vet assistants lies in their education and licensing requirements. Vet techs undergo vet tech degree programs and mandatory licensing exams, while vet assistants typically require less formal education and no licensing.
What kind of education does a veterinary assistant need?
Anyone with a high school diploma or equivalent can become a veterinary assistant. That said, you can pursue one of three avenues for proper vet assisting education: a hands-on training program, an online school, or an apprenticeship. The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) provides a curated list of all three of these options through their Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) credential for vet assistants who want to get certified. Of these options, hands-on schooling will require the largest investment but give you the most comprehensive education.
The greatest benefits to pursuing a vet assisting career are the time and financial investments. Even the most extensive veterinary assistant programs take no more than nine months, and they can cost thousands of dollars less than veterinary technology programs. The Academy of Pet Careers vet assisting program only lasts 5 months and has everything you need to succeed in the field.
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What kind of education does a vet tech need?
The education requirements for vet techs are much more rigorous. Unlike vet assistants, vet techs need to complete a veterinary technology program at a college or university. Usually, these students go on to complete their two- or four-year degrees in veterinary technology before taking the required veterinary technician national exam and state examinations to get licensed in their state. If a veterinary technician wants to become a veterinary technologist, they must undergo even more education and specialize in a specific area of veterinary medicine.
Do vet assistants and vet techs need to be licensed?
While there are currently no licensing requirements for vet assistants, veterinary technicians need to be licensed. They must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and state examination to get licensed in their state. Once completed, they will receive the title of Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). In some states the term “registered” may be replaced with “licensed” or “certified”. Veterinary assistants can get certified to showcase their expertise and boost their prospects, but it isn't required to work.
Vet Tech vs. Vet Assistant Job Prospects & Salaries
Both vet assistants and vet techs will experience a 19% growth in employment until 2033, which is much faster than most industries. However, there are differences when it comes to compensation.
Vet Tech Salary
Salaries for vet techs and vet assistants vary by state and experience level. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for vet techs is $45,980 per year. Some make as much as $60,880 depending on their location and the type of environment they work in.
Vet Assistant Salary
Because veterinary assistants do much of the same work as vet techs, their salaries are comparable. The median veterinary assistant salary in the US is $37,320 per year, but some make as much as $46,000 per year. When you factor in the cost of school, vet assistants can actually end up making more in the long run.
Is it easier to find a job as a vet assistant or a vet tech?
Most veterinary assistants and veterinary technicians are hired into animal hospitals and clinics. There's a heavy demand for both positions. Right now, the industry is experiencing a shortage in veterinary support roles. Therefore, vet techs and vet assistants alike are more sought after than ever to meet this demand.
Should I become a vet tech or vet assistant?
In the end, the choice is up to you! If you're comfortable attending and investing in a four-year university, consider becoming a veterinary technician. If you want to get started with your career more quickly and avoid a major investment, attending a vet assistant school may be the way to go. It's also important to remember that vet assistants can decide to further their education and become techs later on in their career if they so desire.
Key Takeaways
Both veterinary assistants and veterinary technicians play vital roles in the veterinary world, providing essential support to licensed veterinarians and ensuring quality animal care. While their job duties often overlap, the key differences lie in their education, licensing requirements, and scope of responsibilities.
Choosing between these career paths depends on your personal goals, time commitment, and financial investment. Whether you pursue veterinary assisting or veterinary technology, both paths offer fulfilling careers in animal healthcare. If vet assisting is the path for you, the Academy of Pet Careers is here to guide you on this new journey.
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Joseph Schifano
Joseph Schifano is the President of The Academy of Pet Careers and the Founder of DogNerdly.
With over 20 years of professional pet experience, Joseph began his journey as the owner/operator of a successful seven-figure pet care business. He later acquired The Academy of Pet Careers, aiming to elevate the quality of care provided by industry professionals. This position enabled him to connect with leading experts in the field and deepen his knowledge in all aspects of pet care.