They are the nucleus to the veterinary team. They are the ones who know where you last left your stethoscope. And when you can’t find them it’s because they are in the middle of delegating and doing the 5 different tasks you asked them to do. They are the veterinary technicians and assistants.

Katrina Lafferty, RLAT, VTS (Anesthesia/Analgesia).

As we celebrate National Veterinary Technician Week this October, it’s an opportune moment to recognize and celebrate the essential role veterinary technicians play in the animal health care industry. The profession, often misunderstood as a stepping stone to becoming a veterinarian, is in fact a multifaceted career with numerous opportunities for growth, specialization, and leadership. For veterinary technicians and those considering this path, understanding the breadth of career options can be inspiring and empowering.

I was chatting with an incredible veterinary technician at Fetch Kansas City, Katrina Lafferty, RLAT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), about the array of options veterinary technicians have in our industry. The conversation inspired me to share with you the wonderful career paths available out there.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 120,000 veterinary technicians in the US, and the profession is expected to grow by 15% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth reflects the increasing demand for veterinary services, driven by pet ownership trends and advancements in veterinary medicine.

In general, a veterinary technician’s education typically includes a 2-year associate degree from an accredited veterinary technology program, followed by passing the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). However, the journey doesn’t end there. For those looking to expand their skill set and career opportunities, numerous paths exist within the field.

Clinical practice: the bedrock of veterinary technicians

In practice, veterinary technicians perform a wide range of tasks, from taking patient histories and assisting in surgeries to performing diagnostic tests and educating clients. Assisting in surgery, dentistry, patient care, client communication, and much more, the veterinary technician wears many hats, which can be a great opportunity to play to their strengths while challenging them with available opportunities.

With additional experience and certifications, some technicians may even move into supervisory or management roles, overseeing other technicians and support staff. Just another 

 reason to send veterinary technicians and assistants (and the entire team for that matter) to continuing education. Technicians can earn certificates, advance their knowledge, and network with peers.

Veterinary technician specialties: a path to expertise

For those who wish to delve deeper into a specific area of veterinary medicine, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America recognizes Veterinary Technician Specialties (VTS). These include anesthesia and analgesia, behavior, clinical pathology, dentistry, dermatology, emergency and critical care, equine, internal medicine, laboratory animal, nutrition, oncology, ophthalmology, physical rehabilitation, and zoological medicine.

Becoming a VTS involves a rigorous process that includes several years of experience in the chosen specialty, advanced continuing education, case logs, and passing a comprehensive examination. The reward, however, is significant. A VTS designation not only enhances a technician’s knowledge and skills but also opens doors to higher-level positions, increased earning potential, and the ability to make a greater impact in the field.

Lafferty is an excellent example of the versatility of the VTS degree. She was a senior technician in the anesthesia and pain management department at the University of Wisconsin (UW) School of Veterinary Medicine in Madison until 2016, when she transitioned to the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center at UW to be a senior technician in the anesthesia and surgery department. She is actively involved in educating the veterinary community, through her writing and speaking engagements.

If you are interested in a particular species and want to earn a VTS in feline, for example, you can do that too. Ellen Carozza, LVT, VTS(CP-Feline), has worked in many sectors of veterinary medicine. She is currently a consultant for The Cat LVT, LLC, and is president of the Chris Griffey Memorial Feline Foundation, dedicated to helping other rescues and shelters with the critical neonatal and pediatric patient. You can also find Carozza at a small feline practice in northern Virginia.

And the role of the veterinary technician can even expand beyond one country. One superstar is equally passionate about DEI within our profession. Feliza Lopez, LVT, VTS (ECC), has been a licensed veterinary technician since 2011, spending most of her career at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center of New York, a Level One trauma center. She actively participates in international veterinary programs for underserved Latin American communities and holds a leadership position.

Beyond the clinic: nontraditional career paths

Although clinical practice is the most common career choice for veterinary technicians, it is by no means the only option. Many veterinary technicians find fulfilling careers in nonclinical settings, where their skills and knowledge are equally valuable, such as research and laboratory settings, education and training, industry and sales, consulting, writing, animal welfare and shelter medicine, zoo medicine, and wildlife medicine.

Camia Tonge, MS, LVT, VTS (SAIM), works as the clinical director of dentistry, neurology, interventional radiology and endoscopy at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center. She has also served on the executive board of the Academy of Internal Medicine for Veterinary Technicians and was recently named a winner in the dvm360 Veterinary Heroes program!

Michael Natale, LVT is an educator in a Long Island, New York, public high school, teaching topics such as anatomy, pharmacology, surgery, and parasitology. His students learn the theory and the practical side, preparing for careers in veterinary medicine. He also practices as a per diem LVT and is the northeast hiring manager at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG).

As we celebrate this week and month, let’s acknowledge the vital role veterinary technicians play in our practices and encourage them to explore the many avenues available to them, advancing their careers and, ultimately, the field of veterinary medicine itself. Thank you, veterinary technicians and assistants for all you do. Keep on shining!

Articles

dvm360 chief veterinary officer, Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, recognizes technicians to kick off National Veterinary Technician week 2024

Thank you, next! Celebrating career paths of the veterinary technician

The Veterinary Cooperative (TVC), a group purchasing organization for independent practices, announced a strategic partnership with Peerlogic, a provider of AI-powered communication solutions. The partnership looks to address practice inefficiency and client engagement, bringing cutting-edge AI technology to veterinary practices, enhancing front office workflows, improving engagement with pet parents, and driving practice profitability.

“We are thrilled to partner with Peerlogic,” Kim London, director of strategic partnerships at TVC, said in a news release.

 “Their AI-powered solutions will empower our members to manage client communication more effectively, improve operational efficiency, and ultimately increase profitability. We’re proud to bring these valuable tools to the independent veterinary practices that make up TVC.”

In the partnership, TVC practices will gain access to Peerlogic’s innovative AI platform, which works to streamline communication, increasing efficiency within veterinary teams. Aimee, Peerlogic’s AI assistant, is capable of analyzing missed calls, identifying high-value opportunities, and following up with potential clients through instant messages, effectively converting missed calls into new appointments.

“Missed calls represent lost opportunities,” Ryan Miller, CEO of Peerlogic, said.

 “Our technology ensures that no call goes unaddressed by identifying high-value opportunities and automating follow-ups. With our AI assistant, practices can significantly enhance client communication and appointment bookings.”

A 2020 study published in BMC Veterinary Research explored the significance of communication in veterinary clinical practices, conducting an integrative review of literature through a keyword search of veterinary databases for terms involving client relations and communication.

 The study determined that practitioners could benefit from training on specific communication skills that would allow for better communication across the field of veterinary science, between practitioners, clients, and with colleagues.

Ideally, Peerlogic’s integration into the practices that make up TVC will enhance communication in the field, and it will do so efficiently. With real-time tracking, practices would be able to track and monitor missed calls, reschedule appointments, and optimize staffing schedules according to analytics, identifying peak call times.

Through optimized scheduling and proactive follow-up of otherwise missed calls, the platform would prioritize efficiency, aiming to recover potentially lost revenue. With consistent communication, the relationships between practitioners and clients would improve, and thus, so would patient care in the nearly 4000 independent veterinary hospitals across the United States that are represented by TVC.

The Veterinary Cooperative (TVC) Announces New Partnership with Peerlogic to Boost Practice Efficiency and Client Engagement. News release. The Veterinary Cooperative. October 11, 2024. Accessed October 11, 2024. 

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241011970207/en/The-Veterinary-Cooperative-TVC-Announces-New-Partnership-with-Peerlogic-to-Boost-Practice-Efficiency-and-Client-Engagement

PUN, J. An integrated review of the role of communication in veterinary clinical practice. 

, 394 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12917-020-02558-2

The Veterinary Cooperative’s new partnership brings AI communications to nearly 4000 veterinary practices

Partnership takes aim at practice efficiency and client engagement

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is prevalent among older felines. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, approximately 30% to 40% of cats over 10 years old develop CKD.

 Moreover, the condition affects 81% of cats older than 15 years.

 For canines, studies show that 1 in 10 of these animals will be impacted by kidney disease.

 Given the proliferation of the disease, it is important for veterinary professionals know how to diagnose, treat, and care for these patients.

Watch the following 3 videos to gain more knowledge on specific areas of nephrology:

Oxidative stress and EPO synthesis in CKD patients

 Christopher G Byers, DVM, DACVECC, DACVIM (SAIM), CVJ, sat down with 

to discuss the effect oxidative stress has on the kidneys, explaining the mechanics of how this condition can harm kidney tubular cells and result in additional kidney damage. Byers also talked about CKD and its relationship with the kidneys' ability to produce erythropoietin (EPO), a vital hormone for the production of red blood cells.

In this video, Lucy Sumners, RVT, VTS(ECC), shared takeaways from her lecture on the management of acute kidney injury, which she presented at the 2024 Southwest Veterinary Symposium in Fort Worth, Texas. Sumners explained her goal of empowering veterinary technicians to recognize early signs of kidney issues in patients. She also shared specific basic monitoring techniques that veterinary technicians should use to assess kidney function in their patients and emphasized the important of patient care. 

Diagnosing chronic kidney disease in feline patients

, Natalie L Marks, DVM, CVJ, Elite FFCP-V, dives into how to manage CKD in felines, especially when acute injuries complicate their condition. In this video, she discusses importance of low colony urine cultures to identify certain types of infections and testing for feline leukemia and feline infectious peritonitis, as well as the role of monitoring thyroid levels and blood pressure.

Weir M, Panning A, Ward E. Chronic kidney disease in cats. VCA Animal Hospitals. Accessed October 11, 2024. 

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/kidney-failure-chronic-in-cats#:~:text=Chronic%20kidney%20disease%20used%20to,signs%20of%20chronic%20kidney%20disease

Carr J. Kidney Disease in Dogs: What Dog Owners Should Know. PetHealth Network. Accessed October 11, 2024. 

https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diseases-conditions-a-z/kidney-disease-dogs-what-dog-owners-should-know

These videos offer information on oxidative stress, chronic kidney disease, diagnostics, and treatment

3 must-sees on nephrology

Oral Biolife (OBL), a biotechnology company currently developing a first-of-its-kind dental treatment for both humans and companion animals, announced a new development of data in support of their flagship product: Ambrilux Dental Gel.

 Recent studies have proven the product to be effective in promoting the regeneration of bone in the furcations of teeth in 3 beagles that were induced with periodontal disease (PD).

“This proof-of-concept marks a major milestone in our journey. It reinforces our confidence that Ambrilux Dental Gel has the potential to revolutionize how dental care is provided, offering a less invasive and more accessible option for patients,” Bill Breitenbach, CEO of Oral Biolife, said in a news release.

In the study, radiographs were taken at baseline 28 days following the first application of the product, and 29 days after the second application. Results of the radiographs demonstrated that all 3 dogs that were treated with the product showed an increase in bone regeneration at both the first- and second-months post-treatment.

 Meanwhile, just 1 out of 3 control animals demonstrated detectable bone growth. Furthermore, there were no adverse events or other safety hazards noted during the study.

In July 2024, Oral Biolife announced that they’d formed a strategic partnership with a “top-tier global leader in animal health,” to develop a product intended to revolutionize the way PD is treated in companion animals.

“OBL is utilizing advanced biotechnology to create a revolutionary approach to combat and treat [PD], which will enhance the overall wellness and health of animals,” Breitenbach said of the partnership in a July news release.

 “This partnership is a significant step forward to opening a gateway for veterinarians to access a treatment solution for PD, while simultaneously spreading awareness of oral health in animals.”

It's the unfortunate truth that most dogs—80 to 90% over the age of 2—have some component of periodontal disease.

 These numbers are even worse in smaller dogs, and the incidence increases along with age.

 Dogs with periodontal disease will likely show signs of pain by pawing or rubbing at their mouths, drooling, a decreased appetite or other changes in eating habits, blood or odor from the mouth, along with behavioral changes.

For the best chance at preventing periodontal disease, regular veterinary dental cleanings, in addition to proper home dental care, are recommended.

“At OBL our mission has always been to find a way to provide Americans with access to non-invasive dental care,” Stella Vnook, president of Oral Biolife, said.

 “We are pleased with these promising results and are excited to continue our research to further establish the safety and efficacy of the Ambrilux Dental Gel.”

Oral Biolife Announces Large Animal Data Breakthrough in Periodontal Disease. News release. Oral Biolife. October 8, 2024. Accessed October 10, 2024. 

https://world.einnews.com/pr_news/749770634/oral-biolife-announces-large-animal-data-breakthrough-in-periodontal-disease

Oral Biolife Inc. Announces Animal Health Partnership to Support Animal Oral Health. News release. Oral Biolife. July 31, 2024. Accessed October 10, 2024. 

https://world.einnews.com/pr_news/731942189/oral-biolife-inc-announces-animal-health-partnership-to-support-animal-oral-health

Periodontal disease. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Accessed October 10, 2024. 

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/periodontal-disease

A new dental product has been shown to promote regeneration of bone in furcations of teeth in companion animals and humans

Potential breakthrough in periodontal disease treatment gel 

This session at the dvm360 Fetch Coastal conference will help veterinarians better equip puppy owners with strategies for adequate socialization.

Puppy parenting essentials at upcoming conference 

, Christopher Pachel, DVM, DACVB, CABC, owner and lead clinician of Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland, Oregon, shared what his favorite lecture that he will be presenting at dvm360’s Fetch Coastal conference will be: 

Puppy Parenting: Fundamentals for Busy Practitioners

. In this preview of his lecture, Pachel emphasized the importance of proactive socialization for puppies.

Pachel will be presenting 6 other lectures on October 14. Topics will span canine noise phobia, behavioral euthanasia, neurologic vs behavioral conditions, therapeutic interventions for stress conditions in cats, and more.

Fetch Coastal will take place from October 14-16, 2024, at the Atlantic City Convention Center in New Jersey. Additional details and registration can be found 

The following is the interview transcript:

So I will say that one of my favorite sessions that I get the opportunity to present, actually this one's going to be at Fetch Coastal, is the

 roadmap, and actually looking at some of the proactive socialization strategies that we have, not only understanding sort of the implications of what happens when we don't provide adequate socialization, or we're little off the mark in terms of how we do that, but really trying to make it really practical and approachable for pet owners, so it's something that they can do and understand, knowing that when they bring in new puppies into their household, there's a lot of work that goes into raising those puppies into well-mannered adult dogs, and so really trying to equip our pet parents with as many of those skills in practical, tangible ways as possible. That's what we're going to be talking about with the puppy parenting session. And I think that one looks like it's on Monday the 14th of October at Fetch Coastal in Atlantic City.

Videos

This lecture at the dvm360 Fetch Coastal conference will help veterinarians better equip owners of young dogs with strategies for adequate socialization

Essentials for raising a puppy

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) announced earlier this year that Jan Suchodolski, MedVet, DrVetMed, PhD, AGAF, DACVM, professor and associate director for research of the gastrointestinal laboratory at Texas A&M, and Purina Petcare endowed chair for microbiome research, as the recipient of the 2024 AVMA Career Achievement in Canine Research Award.

“Suchodolski's pioneering work in defining the gastrointestinal microbiome in dogs has revolutionized our understanding of canine health and disease," expressed Rena Carlson, DVM, AVMA president, in an organizational release.

 "His research has had a profound impact on veterinary medicine and has paved the way for new diagnostic tools and treatment approaches."

this award from the AVMA honors one of its members for its contributions to the field of canine research and is selected by the AVMA council on Research. In order to qualify, AVMA members must be submitted by either another AVMA member or nonmember, or organization, governmental or not, and the council will not consider any self-nominations.

The requirements for nominations are a letter summarizing the nominee’s professional background with current professional activity, statement of significant achievements, qualifications for the award, and significant research achievements included. An interactive PDF form must be filled out and their curriculum vitae/resume, and relevant publications, not going over 4 single-sided typed pages, and a high-resolution headshot. The nominee will also need up to 3 letters of support from fellow veterinarians, colleagues, clients, or organizations, not exceeding 3 single-sided pages each. The winner will receive a $2,500 honorarium and a crystal award

Suchodolski is a 2003 graduate of the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna and is now a board-certified veterinary microbiologist. He has authored or coauthored over 400 peer-reviewed publications, cited more than 10,000 times, and has a field citation of 3.66, meaning that his papers are cited 366% more often than papers from other investigators within his field.

 “The effect of the macrolide antibiotic tylosin on microbial diversity in the canine small intestine as demonstrated by massive parallel 16S rRNA gene sequencing” that was published in 2009, he became the first researcher to investigate the huge impact that antibiotics have on the gut microbiome of dogs. Since the study was published, Suchodolski was participated in or initiated additional studies on the matter, making it an important focus of efforts to improve antimicrobial stewardship in the medical and veterinary profession.

His research has also led to improvements on how the gut microbiome can be evaluated in the clinical setting. In his study, “A dysbiosis index to assess microbial changes in fecal samples of dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy,” that was published in FEMS Microbiology Ecology in 2017, he established a simplified and new way to assess the fecal microbiome.

 The new way utilizes accessible technology of quantitative PCR and validating the fecal dysbiosis index. The index is currently available commercially through the GI laboratory to provide an affordable method for an inside look of the gut microbiome health in canine patients with GI diseases.

“I am very honored I was selected by the AVMA Council on Research to receive the prestigious career achievement award,” expressed Suchodolski. “I’m thankful for this recognition and would also like to acknowledge and thank all my collaborators and students that have worked with me for the past 20 years.”

Suchodolski’s research has won multiple awards such as the Zoetis Award for Research Excellence and the Outstanding Research Leader Award, Convocation, CVM from Texas A&M University. He was also elected as a Fellow of the American Gastroenterological Association, which is considered a rare honor for a veterinarian, and currently serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Morris Animal Foundation.

Dr. Jan Suchodolski wins 2024 AVMA Career Achievement in Canine Research Award. News release. American Veterinary Medical Association. June 6, 2024. Accessed October 10, 2024. 

https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/dr-jan-suchodolski-wins-2024-avma-career-achievement-canine-research-award

AVMA Career Achievement in Canine Research Award. American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed October 10, 2024. 

https://www.avma.org/about/awards/avma-career-achievement-canine-research-award

Suchodolski JS, Dowd SE, Westermarck E, et al. The effect of the macrolide antibiotic tylosin on microbial diversity in the canine small intestine as demonstrated by massive parallel 16S rRNA gene sequencing. 

. 2009;9:210. Published 2009 Oct 2. doi:10.1186/1471-2180-9-210

AlShawaqfeh MK, Wajid B, Minamoto Y, et al. A dysbiosis index to assess microbial changes in fecal samples of dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy. 

. 2017;93(11):10.1093/femsec/fix136. doi:10.1093/femsec/fix136

A professor at Texas A&M University received this award for his long-term contributions to canine research 