Your Job as a Traveling Veterinary Technician
Have you ever wondered what a traveling veterinary technician does or how to become one? This guide will help you understand everything from training and job duties to salary and finding out where, exactly, a traveling veterinary technician works.
What Do Traveling Veterinary Technicians Do?
The primary role of a traveling veterinary technician is similar to a traditional veterinary tech: assisting veterinarians with surgeries, performing diagnostic tests, administering medications, and providing routine care. However, a traveling vet tech also provides animal care in locations that may lack consistent veterinary services. Instead of working in a traditional veterinary setting like a clinic or hospital, traveling vet technicians move between different facilities, often on a temporary basis or even helping with immediate needs in underserved areas.
Veterinary technicians must be able to quickly adapt to new environments, work with diverse teams, and adapt easily to different practice protocols and equipment. It’s common for a traveling veterinary tech to work with a wide range of cases and conditions, from routine wellness exams to emergency treatments.
Salary Ranges for Traveling Vet Techs
The salary range for traveling veterinary technicians can vary based on several factors, including location, experience, and the specific demands of the assignment. On average, traveling vet techs can expect to earn between $20 and $35 per hour, but pay rates can vary significantly depending on the technician’s level of experience, any specializations or expertise, and even the cost of living where they work.
In addition to hourly wages, many traveling vet techs receive additional benefits, such as housing stipends or allowances, travel reimbursements, and sometimes health insurance or retirement plans. These benefits can significantly impact the overall compensation package, making a new role financially attractive despite the often temporary and mobile nature of the work. For instance, traveling vet techs working in high-demand or remote areas may command higher rates to compensate for locations that may be in less demand.
Seasonal and contract-based positions can also affect earnings. Some assignments may offer higher pay rates during peak times, such as during flu season for pets or in disaster-stricken areas. Traveling vet techs who take on longer-term contracts or specialize in niche areas of veterinary care might find opportunities for higher wages. While the base salary for traveling vet techs can vary, the combination of competitive pay and additional benefits often makes the role financially rewarding.
A Vet Tech’s Qualifications and Certifications
To become a traveling veterinary technician, individuals must meet specific educational, certification, and licensing requirements. Typically, a veterinary technician needs to complete an accredited veterinary technology program, which usually results in an associate’s degree in veterinary technology. These vet tech programs cover topics such as animal anatomy, pharmacology, surgical procedures, and clinical practices: fundamental knowledge and skills required in the field.
After completing their educational requirements, aspiring vet techs must pass a certification examination to become officially certified. In the United States, this is commonly the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). Successful completion of the VTNE demonstrates a vet tech’s proficiency in various aspects of veterinary medicine and their readiness to perform the duties required in a clinical setting. Some states may have additional requirements or exams, so candidates must also be familiar with state-specific regulations.
Beyond initial certification, veterinary technicians often pursue additional credentials or specializations to enhance their expertise and career prospects. There are numerous specialty areas within veterinary technology – such as emergency and critical care, dental care, or anesthesia – and each of these specialities has its own set of advanced certifications. Obtaining these specialized certifications can open up more advanced career opportunities and allow vet techs to focus on areas of particular interest or need.
Other Skills You Will Need as a Traveling Vet Tech
A traveling veterinary technician must be more than just technically trained to be successful in this role. Adaptability is crucial, as you will frequently move between different veterinary practices, each with its own protocols, equipment, and team dynamics. Being able to quickly learn and adapt to new environments helps ensure that you can integrate smoothly into any facility and provide effective care from day one.
Strong communication skills are also important. Traveling vet techs must interact with various veterinary professionals, pet owners, and sometimes even administrative staff across different locations. Clear and effective communication is vital for coordinating care, explaining procedures, and managing any concerns or questions from clients.
Organizational abilities and time management are key for a traveling vet tech, as the role often involves juggling multiple responsibilities in fast-paced and unfamiliar settings. Being well-organized helps the vet tech maintain accurate medical records, manage inventory, and ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently, despite the constant changes in the work environment. Additionally, problem-solving skills are important as unexpected issues may arise — whether it’s adapting to new technology or handling an emergency situation.
Where Do Traveling Veterinary Technicians Go?
Traveling veterinary technicians can be found in a wide range of locations because of diverse animal needs across a multitude of regions. These vet techs often work in rural or underserved areas where there may be a shortage of permanent veterinary staff. As a result, many locations can include small towns or remote communities that lack consistent veterinary services
Additionally, traveling vet techs frequently work in larger, urban centers during times of high demand or when there are temporary staffing shortages in busy clinics or animal hospitals. They may also be employed at veterinary practices during peak seasons, such as during a pet adoption surge or after natural disasters. In these settings, they help manage the increased workload and ensure that animals receive timely and adequate care.
Traveling veterinary technicians may also work in specialized environments such as research facilities, animal shelters, or wildlife rehabilitation centers. Their roles in these settings can vary, from assisting with routine health checks and treatments to supporting specialized care or emergency responses.
Can Traveling Vet Techs Work Internationally?
Yes, traveling veterinary technicians can work internationally. Most often, international veterinary work requires vet techs to navigate varying regulations, cultural differences, and logistical challenges such as:
Certification and Licensing
Each country has its own requirements for veterinary professionals. Traveling vet techs need to ensure that their credentials are recognized in the host country or obtain any necessary certifications or permits. This may involve additional exams or paperwork, depending on local regulations.
Cultural and Language Skills
Working in different countries often means encountering diverse cultures and languages. While many international veterinary facilities operate in English, vet techs might need to learn basic phrases in the local language or be prepared to work with translators. Understanding and respecting cultural differences in animal care practices is also important.
Logistics and Preparation
International assignments often involve complex logistical arrangements, including visa acquisition, travel vaccinations, and securing temporary housing. Vet techs must be prepared for these additional steps to ensure a smooth transition to working abroad.
Specialized Roles
International assignments might involve working with specific types of animals or in unique settings, such as wildlife conservation projects, disaster relief efforts, or in facilities focused on global animal health. These roles can offer valuable experience and may require specialized skills or knowledge.
Traveling veterinary technicians play a vital role in bridging gaps in veterinary services, ensuring that animals receive the care they need, no matter where they are. Are you interested in learning more about becoming a traveling veterinary technician, or would you like to find a new vet tech job? Visit us online and find out how Suveto can help you in each stage of your career path, from finding job openings, preparing for the interview, and accepting your dream job.
