Where do Vet Techs work?

Many vet techs start in traditional general practices and find their calling there. Our program provides a foundation in the wide range of hands-on skills and knowledge to succeed in these locations.

However, many vet techs choose to work in a variety of environments over their careers. This is not a “one size fits all” profession; individuals have the opportunity to  grow and learn and pursue their passions.

Here are just some of the typical places where many vet techs work:

General Practice

General Practice encompasses mostly small animal clinics (household pets such as dogs and cats) and large animal practices (focusing on horses, cows, and livestock). Some general practices serve both small and large animals or even exotics (birds, snakes, mice, etc.).

• In these clinics, a vet tech typically applies a broad set of skills on a daily basis, establishing a comprehensive "generalist" foundation. This common starting point can be a foundation for later specializations.
• Our program is designed to prepare you to succeed in this environment. Most graduates start here; many love it and stay. 
• Examples include Banfield and many VCA locations. Many graduates join large chains like these, but most join smaller organizations.

Specialty Clinics

Specialty Clinics focus on specific areas of veterinary medicine, such as dermatology, ophthalmology, cardiology, or oncology.

• These clinics employ both techs who have Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) credentials and many techs who are “generalists.” In general, these clinics hire more experienced vet techs and offer them higher pay.
• Examples include BluePearl Pet Hospital, many VCA locations, VEG, and many MedVet locations. There also are many specialty clinics that are not part of larger chains.

Emergency Clinics

Emergency Clinics can be intense, with vet techs assisting in complex diagnostic procedures, advanced surgical interventions, and intensive patient monitoring.

• Like specialty clinics, emergency clinics hire many vet techs, many of whom are generalists and many who are specialists. Because the patient stakes are often higher, the pay is often higher.
• Examples are similar to those mentioned under Specialty Clinics, in part because many offer both emergency and specialty services.

Humane Societies and Animal Shelters

Humane societies and animal shelters utilize graduates for animal welfare, assisting in spay/neuter clinics, and managing emergency intake for vulnerable animals.

• Often, these employers cannot afford to pay as much in salary. But many graduates love the work environment and find it incredibly fulfilling.

Research Facilities and Universities

Research Facilities and Universities offer vet techs opportunities to contribute to advances in animal and human health. 

• Vet techs in these locations assist scientists in humanely implementing research projects, managing animal facilities, and performing lab work.
• They often  offer great benefits for graduates seeking to further their educations.

Teaching

Teaching (at places like VTI!) allows vet techs to pass on their expertise and shape the next generation of professionals.

• Vet techs need experience before they can teach.

Other Unique Settings

Other Unique Settings employ smaller numbers of vet techs, but they can be interesting and fulfilling employers.

• At zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and aquariums, vet techs provide specialized care for diverse and often exotic species. 
• In the food industry, vet tech roles support safety, nutrition, and animal health. 
• In public health, roles can involve monitoring and controlling zoonotic diseases.

Many vet techs like the ability to work in a variety of environments over their careers. They grow and learn, all while pursuing their passions.

We invite you to explore the Learn More part of our site. Or explore What It Takes to be a Successful Vet Tech or more about specializations in Vet Tech Careers.