Difference Between Vet Tech & Assistant

By Jennifer Ratliff

Instructions

Education

Step 1:
A Vet Assistant doesn't need a degree to find work, although some will take Internet courses or complete a diploma program in the field. A Vet Tech, on the other hand, has to complete a 2- or 4-year degree and complete a licensing exam to qualify for employment in the field.

Responsibility

Step 1:
Vet Assistants often bathe and feed animals that are housed in the veterinary clinic; they also clean cages or serve in administrative or customer service roles. Vet Techs are afforded more responsibility, such as running blood work, administering vaccines and medications, and handling animals post-surgically.

Salary

Step 1:
Vet Assistants may work full time or part time, and get paid anywhere from minimum wage to $10 per hour. Vet Techs are generally full time can make up to $30,000 per year with benefits.

Places of Employment

Step 1:
Vet Assistants usually work in a vet hospital or clinic, although some animal shelters will employ them. Vet Techs can find employment in research facilities, zoos or aquariums, and vet hospitals.

Considerations

Step 1:
Comparing Vet Assistants with Vet Techs is akin to comparing a Nurse's Aide to a Registered Nurse. Vet Techs have more responsibility, which might lead to more stress; however, the pay and benefits are good. Vet Assistants most often have the "dirtiest" jobs, such as cleaning cages and bathing the animals.

Resources

About Veterinary Medicine

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