Occupation information for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians District Of Columbia

description

Perform medical tests in a laboratory environment for use in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals. Prepare vaccines and serums for prevention of diseases. Prepare tissue samples, take blood samples, and execute laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts. Clean and sterilize instruments and materials and maintain equipment and machines. May assist a veterinarian during surgery.

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details

Currently Employed: 140

Projected Annual Job Openings: 20

Typical Hourly Wage: $22.81 - $32.27

Typical Annual Salary: $47,440 - $67,120

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typical training

Typical education needed for entry: Associate's degree

Typical work experience needed for a job in this occupation: No work experience

Typical on-the-job training once you have a job in this occupation: No on-the-job training

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typical job duties
  • Administer anesthesia to animals, under the direction of a veterinarian, and monitor animals' responses to anesthetics so that dosages can be adjusted.
  • Care for and monitor the condition of animals recovering from surgery.
  • Maintain controlled drug inventory and related log books.
  • Perform laboratory tests on blood, urine, or feces, such as urinalyses or blood counts, to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems.
  • Prepare and administer medications, vaccines, serums, or treatments, as prescribed by veterinarians.
  • Restrain animals during exams or procedures.
  • Administer emergency first aid, such as performing emergency resuscitation or other life saving procedures.
  • Clean and sterilize instruments, equipment, or materials.
  • Provide veterinarians with the correct equipment or instruments, as needed.
  • Perform dental work, such as cleaning, polishing, or extracting teeth.
tools & technology
Tools:
  • Animal catching devices
  • Animal husbandry equipment
  • Intubation laryngoscopes
  • Medical oxygen masks or parts
  • Medical syringes with needle

Technology:
  • Data base user interface and query software
  • Electronic mail software
  • Internet browser software
  • Medical software
  • Word processing software