If you have a passion to help animals, you might be interested in a career working as a technie or vet assistant. Before making a decision, it is important to understand the differences between these professions. Although they perform similar tasks, the educational requirements and pay for each profession are different. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has job statistics that will give you an idea of how these professionals are paid and what their outlook is.
Veterinarian assistants and vet technicians are employed in animal clinics and hospitals to treat patients. Both can help with lab work and routine care. However, veterinary assistants work in a more demanding role than veterinarians. They are often not involved with anesthesia or the analysis of lab samples.
Vet techs, on the other side, are responsible to perform more complex tasks and provide more patient care. Among the most common duties of vet techs are to take X-rays, administer medication, and perform diagnostic imagery. In addition, some veterinary techs are certified in operating veterinary equipment. They may be eligible to pursue specialty training, such as critical care or emergency care. They are therefore eligible for a better salary.
According to BLS, the BLS expects that vet assistants and techs will grow by 16% between 2019-2020. Although both positions are relatively new, demand is expected to increase at a faster rate than other occupations. Veterinary techs are particularly in demand.
Both vet techs as well as assistants to the vets have to be able and willing to take on the stress of both their jobs. You must be available to fill in for others when necessary.
Two-year training is required to become a vet technician. After you graduate, you will need to take an exam to become certified. You can make a median salary of $35,320 depending on your education and work experience.
On the other hand, veterinary assistants do not require formal education. Most veterinarians and technicians hire assistants with a high school diploma or GED. Although some administrative duties may be required for a veterinarian assistant, such answering clients' questions, the vast majority of their duties will be clerical. The majority of veterinary assistants are hired to perform administrative duties, such as answering calls or organizing the clinic.
While both careers can be rewarding, you may want to consider a vet tech if you want to earn more money. Techs are more likely to be paid higher salaries and have more opportunity for advancement. They can also choose to specialize in zoological medicine or dental technology. With that said, it's also worth noting that a higher salary may make the cost of education easier to bear.
The BLS revealed that veterinarians as well as veterinary assistants are all in good shape. The projected 19% growth in employment over the next 10 years is more than what is typical for all occupations.
FAQ
What is pet assurance?
Pet Insurance provides financial protection for pets when they are sick or injured. It also covers routine care such as vaccinations or spaying/neutering.
Additionally, the policy covers emergency treatment for pets that are injured or become ill.
There are two types if pet insurance:
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Catastrophic - This type of insurance pays for medical expenses if your cat suffers serious injuries.
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Non-catastrophic (This type covers routine veterinary expenses, including microchips and spays/neuters.
Some companies offer both non-catastrophic and catastrophic coverage. Others only offer one.
These costs are covered by a monthly payment. The amount of your pet's care depends on what you spend.
The price of your insurance depends on which company is chosen. Shop around before making a purchase.
There are discounts offered by some companies if you buy more than one policy.
You can transfer an existing pet insurance plan from another company to a new one.
If you decide to not purchase any pet insurance you will be responsible for all costs.
There are still ways you can save money. Ask your veterinarian about discounts.
If your pet sees you often, he may discount you.
Another option is to adopt a pet from a local shelter instead of buying one.
Remember, no matter what kind of insurance you buy, you must read the fine print carefully.
It will inform you of the amount of your coverage. If you don’t understand something, contact an insurer immediately.
How to feed your pet?
Cats and dogs consume four meals per day. Breakfast is composed of dry kibble. Lunch is often some type of meat like chicken, beef or fish. Dinner is usually some form of vegetables like broccoli or peas.
Different dietary requirements are required for cats. Canadian foods should be a major part of their diet. These include chicken, tuna fish, salmon and sardines.
Fruits and vegetables can be enjoyed by your pet. But, your pet shouldn't eat them too often. Overeating causes cats to become sick.
Your pet shouldn't be allowed to drink straight out of the tap. Instead, allow him to drink from a bowl.
You should ensure that your pet is getting enough exercise. Exercise will help him lose weight. It also keeps him healthy.
After your pet eats, make sure you wash the dishes. This will prevent your pet from inhaling harmful bacteria.
Brush your pet often. Brushing helps remove dead skin cells and can lead to infection.
You should brush your pet at the very least once a week. Use a soft bristle brush. Avoid using a wire brush. This could cause serious damage to your pet’s dental health.
Be sure to supervise your pet as he eats. He needs to chew his food properly. If he does not, he might choke on bone fragments.
Garbage cans should be kept away from your pet. This can cause health problems in your pet.
Never leave your pet alone in an enclosed space. This includes cars, hot tubs, and boats.
What should you think about when purchasing a pet for your family?
The first thing to consider is what kind of lifestyle you want for yourself and your family. Do you have children? What number do you have? How old are they now? Are there any special dietary requirements for them?
Do you have allergies? Is there any additional information you need about your pet?
Once you have answered these questions, consider whether or not you are looking for an active companion dog, a calm cat or a house-trained feline.
Adopting a puppy is a great idea. Make sure to visit a rescue or shelter group so you can get to know the animals and feel at ease with them.
You'll also want to know if the animal has been vaccinated against rabies and other diseases.
Finally, ask the owner if he or she will take care of the animal while you go on vacation. You won't need to worry about your pet being left at home.
Remember that pets are part your family. If you don't like them, you shouldn’t adopt them.
Statistics
- Here's a sobering reality: when you add up vaccinations, health exams, heartworm medications, litter, collars and leashes, food, and grooming, you can expect a bill of at least $1,000 a year, according to SSPCA. (bustle.com)
- Monthly costs are for a one-year-old female mixed-breed dog and an under one-year-old male domestic shorthair cat, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
- It is estimated that the average cost per year of owning a cat or dog is about $1,000. (sspca.org)
- For example, if your policy has a 90% reimbursement rate and you've already met your deductible, your insurer would pay you 90% of the amount you paid the vet, as long as you're still below the coverage limits of your policy. (usnews.com)
- Reimbursement rates vary by insurer, but common rates range from 60% to 100% of your veterinary bill. (usnews.com)
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How To
How to train your pet dog
A pet dog is an animal companion who provides companionship and emotional support for its owner. It can protect against predators and other animals.
A pet dog must be trained by its owners to perform certain tasks such as fetching items, guarding against intruders, obeying commands, and performing tricks.
The average training period lasts six to two years. During this time, the owner teaches the dog basic obedience skills, including how to sit, lie down, stay, come when called, walk on command, and roll over. The owner also teaches the dog how to use basic commands and to respect the dog's natural instincts.
Apart from teaching the basic behaviors to the dog, the owner should teach it to not bite other animals or people and to be respectful of strangers.