What certification is required to become a Veterinary Technician?

Vet Techs must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) after completing an accredited veterinary technology program. State licensure or certification may also be required.

Are there advanced certifications for Vet Techs?

Yes, Vet Techs can pursue specialty certifications in areas like anesthesia, dentistry, emergency and critical care, internal medicine, and behavior through NAVTA-recognized academies.

How do certifications impact career growth?

Certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge, expand job roles, increase earning potential, and allow Vet Techs to work in specialized fields or leadership positions.

Do Vet Tech certifications need renewal?

Yes, most certifications require continuing education and periodic renewal to ensure techs stay current with best practices and maintain their credentials.

Where can Vet Techs find certification programs?

Programs are available through AVMA-accredited colleges, NAVTA-recognized specialty academies, and state veterinary boards that oversee certification requirements.

Do Veterinary Technicians perform diagnostic tests?

Yes, they conduct diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, urinalysis, and radiographs to support diagnoses and monitor treatment progress under veterinarian supervision.

Do Veterinary Technicians interact with pet owners?

Yes, they educate owners on medications, post-care instructions, nutrition, and preventative care, helping bridge communication between the veterinarian and client.

Top Certifications for Aspiring Veterinary Technicians

Veterinary Technicians (VTs) are critical members of the animal healthcare team, and obtaining the right certifications can significantly boost their professional credibility, skills, and career opportunities. Whether you are just starting in the field or looking to specialize in a particular area, there are numerous certifications available to help you grow as a Veterinary Technician. These certifications validate your expertise, demonstrate your commitment to professional development, and increase your competitiveness in the job market.

Why Certifications Matter for Veterinary Technicians

Certifications serve multiple purposes in the field of veterinary technology:

Demonstrate specialized knowledge and advanced skills
Enhance career advancement opportunities and increase earning potential
Ensure high standards of care and patient safety
Provide a competitive edge in a growing job market
Fulfill continuing education requirements for licensure renewal

Obtaining certification can help you stand out to employers and showcase your dedication to animal healthcare.

1. Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS) Certification

The Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS) certification is a prestigious credential that recognizes Veterinary Technicians who have advanced their knowledge and skills in a particular area of veterinary practice.

Offered by various organizations, such as the Academy of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Technicians (AVECCT) or the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry Technicians (AVDT)
Requires extensive clinical experience, continuing education, and successful completion of exams
Specializations include Emergency and Critical Care, Dentistry, Anesthesia, Internal Medicine, and more

The VTS certification demonstrates a high level of expertise in a specialized field, improving job prospects and allowing you to work with more complex cases.

2. Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) and Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

The Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) designation is essential for those wishing to practice as a Veterinary Technician in many states.

Offered by state veterinary boards or national organizations such as the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
Requires graduation from an accredited veterinary technology program and successful completion of the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)
Must be renewed periodically with continuing education credits

Achieving CVT or LVT status is a critical step for any Veterinary Technician, as it’s required for licensure in many states and demonstrates competency in essential veterinary procedures and animal care.

3. Fear Free Certified Veterinary Professional

Fear Free Certification is designed for Veterinary Technicians who want to improve patient care by reducing stress, anxiety, and fear in animals during veterinary visits.

Focuses on techniques to calm animals and make veterinary visits more comfortable for them
Provides training on how to handle animals gently and recognize signs of stress
Helps create a more positive experience for pets and owners

Fear Free certification is especially valuable for those working in general practices, clinics, or animal shelters, where reducing fear and anxiety is crucial for both patient welfare and client satisfaction.

4. Veterinary Technician in Anesthesia and Analgesia (VTS- Anesthesia)

For Veterinary Technicians interested in specializing in anesthesia, the Veterinary Technician in Anesthesia and Analgesia (VTS- Anesthesia) certification provides an advanced level of expertise in this critical area.

Offered by the Academy of Veterinary Technician Anesthetists (AVTA)
Requires in-depth knowledge of anesthesia protocols, drug administration, and monitoring
Must complete advanced clinical training and pass a specialty exam

With this certification, Veterinary Technicians can assist with complex anesthesia protocols and work in surgical, critical care, and emergency settings.

5. Veterinary Technician in Emergency and Critical Care (VTS- Emergency and Critical Care)

The Veterinary Technician in Emergency and Critical Care (VTS- ECC) certification is ideal for those who work in emergency hospitals or critical care units.

Offered by the Academy of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Technicians (AVECC)
Focuses on advanced life support, trauma management, and critical care nursing
Requires hands-on experience and a specialty exam to demonstrate advanced expertise in managing emergency cases

SLPs with this certification can take on more responsibility in high-stress environments, managing complex cases and ensuring critical care protocols are followed.

6. Veterinary Technician in Internal Medicine (VTS- Internal Medicine)

Veterinary Technicians who specialize in internal medicine can pursue the Veterinary Technician in Internal Medicine (VTS- Internal Medicine) certification.

Offered by the Academy of Veterinary Internal Medicine Technicians (AVIMT)
Focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and care for animals with chronic or complex medical conditions
Includes areas such as cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology

Veterinary Technicians with this certification work closely with veterinarians to manage complex medical cases and assist with diagnostic procedures.

7. Additional Certifications and Continuing Education

In addition to these primary certifications, Veterinary Technicians can pursue various continuing education courses, workshops, and webinars to further develop their skills and stay up-to-date with industry standards. Topics for continued learning may include:

Nutrition and weight management in animals
Behavioral therapy for pets
Preventative care techniques, such as vaccination protocols and parasite control
Advanced diagnostic techniques, such as ultrasound and CT imaging

Engaging in ongoing education helps Veterinary Technicians enhance their expertise and adapt to the evolving needs of animal healthcare.

Choosing the Right Certification for Your Career

When choosing certifications, it’s important to consider your career goals and areas of interest. Whether you want to specialize in anesthesia, emergency care, or internal medicine, there is a certification program tailored to each focus area. In addition, achieving multiple certifications can help you stand out in a competitive job market and provide a pathway for career advancement.

By investing in certifications, Veterinary Technicians not only enhance their professional development but also contribute to providing the highest level of care to animals in need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What certification is required to become a Veterinary Technician?: Vet Techs must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) after completing an accredited veterinary technology program. State licensure or certification may also be required.
Are there advanced certifications for Vet Techs?: Yes, Vet Techs can pursue specialty certifications in areas like anesthesia, dentistry, emergency and critical care, internal medicine, and behavior through NAVTA-recognized academies.
How do certifications impact career growth?: Certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge, expand job roles, increase earning potential, and allow Vet Techs to work in specialized fields or leadership positions.
Do Veterinary Technicians perform diagnostic tests?: Yes, they conduct diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, urinalysis, and radiographs to support diagnoses and monitor treatment progress under veterinarian supervision. Learn more on our Core Duties of a Veterinary Technician page.
Do Veterinary Technicians interact with pet owners?: Yes, they educate owners on medications, post-care instructions, nutrition, and preventative care, helping bridge communication between the veterinarian and client. Learn more on our Core Duties of a Veterinary Technician page.