Contents
A vet tech’s salary varies based on experience and geographic region. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for veterinary technicians was $33,250 in May 2018.
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Introduction
In the united states the median pay for a Veterinary Technician is $33,280 per year, or $16.03 per hour. Entry level positions start at $25,560 per year while most experienced workers make up to $44,000 per year.
What Does a vet tech Do?
A veterinary technician is a professional who provides support to a veterinarian by caring for sick, injured or convalescing animals. They also work with healthy animals to carry out preventative health care programmes, such as vaccinations. vet techs work in private veterinary practices, zoos or wildlife sanctuaries, agricultural settings or research laboratories.
The typical duties of a veterinary technician include:
-Conducting initial examinations of animals and taking medical histories
-Collecting blood, tissue and urine samples for testing
-Administering vaccinations and medications as prescribed by a veterinarian
-Assisting in surgery and other medical procedures
-Educating animal owners about how to care for their pets
How Much Does a vet tech Make?
Veterinary technicians make a comfortable living. In fact, the median pay for veterinary technicians is $33,280 per year. That’s $16.02 per hour! And the top 10% of earners make over $49,000 per year. Your salary as a vet tech will depend on a number of factors, including your experience, education, and geographical location.
National Average Salary
As of Nov 13, 2020, the average annual pay for a Veterinary Technician in the United States is $35,602 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $17.12 an hour. This is the equivalent of $682/week or $2,954/month.
Salary by State
vet techs are in high demand across the United States. In order to become a vet tech, one must complete a two-year accredited veterinary technology program and pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Upon passing the VTNE, vet techs are credentialed by their state’s veterinary medical board to practice as Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs). The table below shows the average annual salary of an RVT in each state.
-Alabama: $28,530
-Alaska: $38,860
-Arizona: $33,470
-Arkansas: $27,850
-California: $39,040
– Colorado: $36,620
-Connecticut: $37,140
-Delaware: $34,660
-District of Columbia: $42,450
-Florida: $33,560
-Georgia: $31,590
-Hawaii: $44,080
-Idaho :$29 ,020
-Illinois :$33 ,880
-Indiana :$30 ,870
-Iowa :$31 ,470
-Kansas :$30 ,920
How to Become a Vet Tech
Veterinary technicians typically need an associate’s degree in veterinary technology. Although some states require certification or licensure, others may not.
Those interested in becoming a veterinary technician should:
-Earn an associate’s degree in veterinary technology from an accredited program -Take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), which is required in most states -Obtain state certification or licensure, if required -Maintain certification or licensure through continuing education credits
Some states require certification or licensure to work as a veterinary technician.
Vet tech job Outlook
The job outlook for vet techs is strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of vet techs will grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026—much faster than the average for all occupations. A growing number of pet owners, an aging pet population, and the increasing complexity of veterinary care are expected to drive demand for these workers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, vet techs are a vital part of the veterinary team. They provide support to the veterinarian and play an important role in animal care. Veterinary technicians typically have an Associate’s degree in veterinary technology, although some may have a Bachelor’s degree.The median annual salary for a vet tech was $33,400 in 2017, with the top 10% earning more than $48,090.
