Equine Veterinary Technician

An equine veterinary technician primarily serves as technical support to equine veterinarians. The typical responsibilities of an equine veterinary technician include physical examinations, patient history, administration of medication and vaccines, performing clinical laboratory procedures, radiology, anesthesiology, surgical assistance, office management, and much more.

An equine veterinary technician is a physically demanding field which typically requires long, unpredictable hours, especially during foaling season. Technicians will spend a considerable amount of time on the road traveling between client visits. An equine veterinary technician must possess strong communication skills to communicate with clients as well as a strong sense of horsemanship.

Equine veterinary technicians may be certified, registered, or licensed depending on a particular state’s regulations. Educational requirements include at least two years of post-secondary education leading to an Associate of Science or equivalent degree. Four year Bachelor of Science, some specializing in equine science, degrees are available at some institutions. There are over one hundred veterinary technology programs in the United States that are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (“AVMA”). After completion of the program, most states require the passing of the “National Veterinary Technician Exam”, which includes oral, written, and practical portions.

The average income of an equine veterinary technician varies based on the location and the type practice. In a 1999 survey by the AVMA, new graduates of accredited veterinary technician programs can earn a salary of $10,717 to $40,000 per year, and experienced graduates could earn $10,440 to $81,000 per year. The average salary in 1999 was $24, 323 for experienced, full time veterinary technicians.