When you step into the welcoming environment of the Animal Medical Center of Marquette with your cherished pet, you are immediately embraced by a team of dedicated professionals ready to ensure the best care for your animal. Central to this team, beyond the veterinarians, are the licensed veterinary technicians. These professionals are vital to the healthcare of your pet, offering skilled and compassionate service that is crucial to your pet’s well-being.

Understanding the Veterinary Technician’s Role

Often, there is a bit of confusion between a veterinary assistant and a veterinary technician. The key difference lies in education and scope of practice. Veterinary technicians undergo rigorous formal education in accredited programs and must pass a national examination to become credentialed as either an RVT (Registered Veterinary Technician), LVT (Licensed Veterinary Technician), or CVT (Certified Veterinary Technician), depending on their licensing state. Additionally, these individuals must fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain their licensure, ensuring they remain knowledgeable about the latest advances in animal care. In Michigan, we have Licensed Veterinary Technicians (LVT).

What Does a Veterinary Technician Do?

Veterinary technicians are integral to the veterinary care team, performing a variety of critical tasks that include:

  • Collecting vital signs and medical history: This initial assessment is crucial for setting the stage for effective diagnosis and treatment. Technicians gather essential data such as temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and weight. They also ask about your pet’s behavior, eating habits, and activity levels, which can provide valuable insights into their overall health.
  • Performing laboratory tests: Common tests include blood work, urinalysis, and fecal exams, which are essential for monitoring the health of pets. Veterinary technicians ensure that these tests are conducted accurately, analyzing the results to detect issues like infections, kidney disease, or diabetes early on. These lab results are often the key to uncovering hidden health problems.
  • Administering medications and treatments: Veterinary technicians are skilled in administering various medications, whether it’s an oral dose, an injection, or placing an IV catheter for fluid therapy. They also manage more complex tasks such as changing bandages, cleaning wounds, and monitoring the pet’s response to treatments. Their keen attention to detail ensures that pets receive the correct medications and dosages at the right time.
  • Providing in-hospital care: Beyond administering treatments, veterinary technicians take on the responsibility of keeping hospitalized pets comfortable. They provide soft bedding, monitor the pet’s pain levels, and offer affection to help ease any stress or anxiety during their stay. Whether it’s a gentle petting session or offering a blanket for warmth, these small gestures contribute significantly to your pet’s comfort and recovery.
  • Assisting in surgery: Veterinary technicians play a pivotal role in surgeries, from preparing the surgical suite and sterilizing equipment to monitoring anesthesia levels during the operation. Post-surgery, they provide care and attention to the patient, ensuring a smooth recovery. Their careful monitoring of vital signs, such as heart rate and breathing, ensures the pet’s safety throughout the procedure.
  • Taking radiographs (X-rays): X-rays are a pivotal diagnostic tool for various conditions. Veterinary technicians are trained to position animals correctly and take high-quality images that help veterinarians diagnose fractures, internal injuries, or foreign objects inside the body. This process requires both precision and compassion, as pets often need to be kept calm and still during the procedure.
  • Providing client education: Veterinary technicians serve as a bridge between the veterinary team and pet owners, ensuring you understand aftercare instructions, medication schedules, and any necessary lifestyle adjustments for your pet. Whether it’s showing you how to administer medication or discussing post-surgical care, their goal is to make sure you feel confident in providing care at home.

Veterinary technicians also specialize in helping ensure your pet’s experience is low-stress and comforting. At the Animal Medical Center of Marquette, we are committed to using Fear-Free techniques to make every visit more pleasant for your pet.

How Veterinary Technicians Help Pet Owners

Veterinary technicians are often the first to recognize early signs of illness in pets, such as changes in appetite, behavior, or bathroom habits. Their trained eyes can detect subtle signs that might indicate a health issue, which is crucial for early intervention and treatment.

They also educate pet owners on:

  • Proper nutrition and exercise: Ensuring pets have a balanced diet and adequate physical activity is vital for overall health. Veterinary technicians can offer advice on the best food choices for your pet’s age, weight, and health status. They may also provide guidance on portion control and suggest activities that promote both mental and physical stimulation for your pet.
  • Parasite prevention: Protecting pets from fleas, ticks, and heartworms is essential for their health. Veterinary technicians explain the various preventive options available, such as oral medications, topical treatments, or collars, and can demonstrate how to apply or administer them. They also provide tips on how to check your pet for signs of infestation and what to do if you find anything concerning.
  • At-home dental care: Demonstrating techniques for maintaining good oral hygiene is another critical aspect of their role. Veterinary technicians can show you how to properly brush your pet’s teeth, recommend dental chews, and discuss the importance of regular dental check-ups. Keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy can prevent painful dental diseases down the road.
  • Safe and enriching environments: Offering advice on how to create a living space that is both safe and stimulating for pets is crucial to their well-being. Veterinary technicians can recommend ways to “pet-proof” your home, suggest toys and activities that keep your pet mentally engaged, and provide guidance on creating a routine that fosters good behavior and reduces stress.

The Value of Veterinary Technicians

At Animal Medical Center of Marquette, we understand the irreplaceable value of our veterinary technicians. They are not only passionate about animal care but are also committed to ensuring the best outcomes for your pets. Our facility proudly employs a number of highly qualified licensed veterinary technicians who are dedicated to providing exceptional care. To schedule an appointment with our team, you can request an appointment online.

Our Cornerstone

Licensed veterinary technicians are a cornerstone of the veterinary healthcare team, offering essential skills that go beyond basic care. They are trained and equipped to handle diverse aspects of animal health, from preventive care to emergency and critical treatment, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible attention. Their compassionate care, expertise, and dedication make a significant difference in the lives of pets every day.