Between 2006 and 2016, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the employment rate for veterinary technicians will grow as much as 41%, increasing the number of jobs from 71,100 to 100,000 during this 10-year time period. This is considered a great number as it is reflects a growth rate much faster than the average. This information is good news, especially to motivated individuals who are seriously considering a career as veterinary technologists or vet techs. Excellent job opportunities await prospective veterinary technologists as the demand for this occupation is least likely to be affected by the recent global economic recession. Animals, whether domesticated or not, are in need of continuous medical care in spite of the economic slump.
The demand for vet techs is directly attributed to the rapid advancement in veterinary medicine. Pet owners and animal caretakers expect nothing but the best veterinary care using the most advanced and sophisticated techniques. This is evident by the huge amount of money spent by Americans on their pets. In 2007, it is estimated that $41.2 billion was spent on animal care and management with 24.5%, or $10.1 billion, allocated solely to veterinary care. It is believed that the cost of pet ownership is expected to increase in the coming years.
In response to the growing need for veterinary technologists, the number of vet tech schools offering degree programs has increased over the past few years. In April of 2008, 14 vet tech programs have applied for accreditation by the AVMA. In the first quarter of 2009, there are 154 vet tech programs accredited by the AVMA in the United States. Around 18 vet tech schools offer 4-year baccalaureate degrees. Recently, the number of AVMA-accredited distance learning veterinary technician programs has increased to 9.
For every vet tech graduate, it is estimated that six to eight jobs are available. In addition to the strong demand for vet techs, a career in this field can be a rewarding experience with wide-ranging opportunities. Veterinary technology is an occupation with an increasing number of specialized areas. Most vet techs work in clinic or hospital settings. They can choose to specialize in one type of clinical procedure, such as anesthesia and surgery, dentistry, diagnostic imaging and laboratory tests and animal training. For those who want to work and get involved in animal welfare, employment in animal shelters can be fulfilling. Veterinary technologists could also work in research facilities and assist in the implementation of various biomedical research and clinical courses. Some can work as herd health and livestock managers in ranches and farms; others might want to work in zoo or wildlife medicine that mainly deals with exotic and non-domesticated animals. Veterinary technologists can also find a satisfying career in teaching, military service, industrial animal health, diagnostic laboratory, and veterinary pharmaceutical sales. In May 2007, the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics gave a mean wage estimate for veterinary technologists of $27,970.
Choosing and building a career around veterinary technology should not be entirely based on the occupation's promise and stability as challenges and risks are involved, as well. One should consider their genuine interest in encouraging and protecting animals' health and welfare.
To learn more about vet tech schools and veterinary technician programs visit http://www.vettechprograms.net.
