8 answers
Kaydee
Student
Atlantic, Iowa
3
Questions
Asked
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For someone considering the veterinary field, what's something that I should be prepared for?
I already work in a vet clinic, so I know what it's like to work in the field. But what challenges should I be ready to face? I plan on entering a vet tech program this fall and want to be as prepared as possible for them.
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8 answers
Yoga Dwi Pradana
I don't have a job
10
Answers
Batu, East Java, Indonesia
Updated
Yoga Dwi’s Answer
Since you already work in a vet clinic, you have a good idea of what the field is like. However, here are some key challenges you should be ready to face as you enter your vet tech program and career:
1. **Emotional Resilience**
- You’ll witness tough situations, including euthanasia, animal abuse cases, and owners who can’t afford necessary treatments. Developing emotional strength is crucial to avoid burnout.
- Delivering bad news to pet owners can be one of the hardest parts of the job. Strong communication and empathy skills will help you handle these moments.
2. **Physical Demands**
- Long hours on your feet, lifting animals of all sizes, and assisting in medical procedures can take a toll on your body. Proper lifting techniques and self-care routines are essential to prevent injuries.
3. **Difficult Pet Owners**
- Some owners may be argumentative, distrustful of medical advice, or upset about costs. You’ll need patience, strong customer service skills, and the ability to remain professional even in tense situations.
4. **Salary & Education Costs**
- Vet tech salaries are often lower than other medical fields, despite the demanding workload. Be financially prepared for tuition and consider whether you may need additional certifications or specializations to boost earning potential.
5. **Continuous Learning & Adaptability**
- Veterinary medicine evolves constantly. You’ll need to stay updated on new procedures, medications, and technologies. Being a lifelong learner is essential in this field.
6. **Risk of Injury & Zoonotic Diseases**
- Animals in pain or distress can bite, scratch, or kick. You’ll also be exposed to zoonotic diseases (illnesses that spread from animals to humans). Learning proper restraint techniques and following safety protocols will help keep you safe.
7. **Multitasking & Time Management**
- Vet techs juggle multiple responsibilities, from assisting in surgeries to handling lab work, administering medications, and educating pet owners. Strong time management and the ability to work under pressure are essential.
**Additional Tips:**
- **Build a Strong Network & Find a Mentor:** Connecting with experienced vet techs can provide valuable guidance and support.
- **Take Care of Your Mental Health:** Burnout is common in this field. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as hobbies, exercise, or talking to colleagues.
- **Prepare for an Intensive Educational Program:** Vet tech school can be academically demanding. Familiarizing yourself with veterinary anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical procedures in advance can give you a head start.
Wishing you the best in your vet tech journey! 🐾😊
1. **Emotional Resilience**
- You’ll witness tough situations, including euthanasia, animal abuse cases, and owners who can’t afford necessary treatments. Developing emotional strength is crucial to avoid burnout.
- Delivering bad news to pet owners can be one of the hardest parts of the job. Strong communication and empathy skills will help you handle these moments.
2. **Physical Demands**
- Long hours on your feet, lifting animals of all sizes, and assisting in medical procedures can take a toll on your body. Proper lifting techniques and self-care routines are essential to prevent injuries.
3. **Difficult Pet Owners**
- Some owners may be argumentative, distrustful of medical advice, or upset about costs. You’ll need patience, strong customer service skills, and the ability to remain professional even in tense situations.
4. **Salary & Education Costs**
- Vet tech salaries are often lower than other medical fields, despite the demanding workload. Be financially prepared for tuition and consider whether you may need additional certifications or specializations to boost earning potential.
5. **Continuous Learning & Adaptability**
- Veterinary medicine evolves constantly. You’ll need to stay updated on new procedures, medications, and technologies. Being a lifelong learner is essential in this field.
6. **Risk of Injury & Zoonotic Diseases**
- Animals in pain or distress can bite, scratch, or kick. You’ll also be exposed to zoonotic diseases (illnesses that spread from animals to humans). Learning proper restraint techniques and following safety protocols will help keep you safe.
7. **Multitasking & Time Management**
- Vet techs juggle multiple responsibilities, from assisting in surgeries to handling lab work, administering medications, and educating pet owners. Strong time management and the ability to work under pressure are essential.
**Additional Tips:**
- **Build a Strong Network & Find a Mentor:** Connecting with experienced vet techs can provide valuable guidance and support.
- **Take Care of Your Mental Health:** Burnout is common in this field. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as hobbies, exercise, or talking to colleagues.
- **Prepare for an Intensive Educational Program:** Vet tech school can be academically demanding. Familiarizing yourself with veterinary anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical procedures in advance can give you a head start.
Wishing you the best in your vet tech journey! 🐾😊
cody Mccollaum
corrections
10
Answers
Oceanside, California
Updated
cody’s Answer
Dealing with difficult situations: As a veterinarian, you’ll often face tough situations, like delivering bad news to pet owners about their animals' health or making the tough decision to euthanize a pet. It can be emotionally draining, and it’s important to build emotional resilience.
Balancing compassion and professionalism: You need to be able to show compassion for both animals and their owners while also maintaining a professional distance to make the best medical decisions for the animal.
Balancing compassion and professionalism: You need to be able to show compassion for both animals and their owners while also maintaining a professional distance to make the best medical decisions for the animal.
Michelle M.
Actress
2225
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Kaydee !
I think that on your first day of classes, your college will inform you as to what the course plans are and that is when you can "prepare" for your first semester. You can always go to the college website and read about the program and ask questions directly to the college you will attend for your Associates Degree in Veterinary Technician. Since you already work in a Vet clinic, I guess you already know the staff Vet Tech, too, who may be helpful with discussing their individual experience for this major.
There isn't a college offering Vet Tech in or around Atlantic, Iowa, so I am assuming that you will enroll at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs as they offer it. Wherever you are enrolling in the Fall, the only thing I can advise you to "prepare" for is to apply for financial aid as well as scholarships and grants.
The best way to satisfy your curiosity would be to schedule an orientation at the college you will enroll in. Take the tour and you can have all of your questions answered by official staff of the college as well as some students you may meet there. Beforehand, look to see if your prospective college has a channel on You Tube so you can watch some videos about the college.
This will indeed be a new experience for you and I would say to not overthink it or worry about it. You already see the workings of a vet clinic on a day to day basis, so there's really not much more you can do except to make sure that you have the tuition for your first semester.
No one will be able to tell you what challenges you will face because everyone's student experience is very, very different from how yours would be. Also, no one who doesn't know you can even begin to tell you what challenges you may have. And challenges are not always a negative thing, they often times are positive and exciting experiences. It's just best to relax and let things come together naturally.
I hope this helps and feel welcome to ask more, specific questions as you plan for the Fall. It helps if you mention what school you would be attending as well as what specific issues you are concerned about. Best wishes to you !
I think that on your first day of classes, your college will inform you as to what the course plans are and that is when you can "prepare" for your first semester. You can always go to the college website and read about the program and ask questions directly to the college you will attend for your Associates Degree in Veterinary Technician. Since you already work in a Vet clinic, I guess you already know the staff Vet Tech, too, who may be helpful with discussing their individual experience for this major.
There isn't a college offering Vet Tech in or around Atlantic, Iowa, so I am assuming that you will enroll at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs as they offer it. Wherever you are enrolling in the Fall, the only thing I can advise you to "prepare" for is to apply for financial aid as well as scholarships and grants.
The best way to satisfy your curiosity would be to schedule an orientation at the college you will enroll in. Take the tour and you can have all of your questions answered by official staff of the college as well as some students you may meet there. Beforehand, look to see if your prospective college has a channel on You Tube so you can watch some videos about the college.
This will indeed be a new experience for you and I would say to not overthink it or worry about it. You already see the workings of a vet clinic on a day to day basis, so there's really not much more you can do except to make sure that you have the tuition for your first semester.
No one will be able to tell you what challenges you will face because everyone's student experience is very, very different from how yours would be. Also, no one who doesn't know you can even begin to tell you what challenges you may have. And challenges are not always a negative thing, they often times are positive and exciting experiences. It's just best to relax and let things come together naturally.
I hope this helps and feel welcome to ask more, specific questions as you plan for the Fall. It helps if you mention what school you would be attending as well as what specific issues you are concerned about. Best wishes to you !
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Vet tech programs can be both exciting and challenging, especially for those with hands-on experience in clinics. Key areas to prepare for include intensive coursework, skill mastery, emotional and psychological demands, physical and time commitments, interpersonal and professional challenges, and transitioning from experience to formal education.
Intensive coursework involves mastering in-depth subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, clinical procedures, and laboratory diagnostics, with heavy study load and rigorous assessments. Skill mastery requires precise technical skills, often under exam conditions, which can be a steep learning curve compared to on-the-job routines.
Emotionally challenging aspects include handling euthanasia and end-of-life care, which can take an emotional toll. Compassion fatigue is essential, and developing healthy coping and stress-management strategies early is essential. Physical and time commitments involve long hours, heavy lifting, and being on your feet for extended periods. High responsibility is expected, with tasks ranging from surgery assistance to managing laboratory tests.
Interpersonal and professional challenges include improving communication skills, coordinating with distressed pet owners, and ensuring professional utilization. Transitioning from experience to formal education requires adjusting to a structured, theory-driven approach that complements practical experience. By preparing for these challenges through solid study habits, seeking mentorship, and developing self-care routines, you will be better equipped to succeed in your program and build a resilient foundation for your veterinary career.
Intensive coursework involves mastering in-depth subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, clinical procedures, and laboratory diagnostics, with heavy study load and rigorous assessments. Skill mastery requires precise technical skills, often under exam conditions, which can be a steep learning curve compared to on-the-job routines.
Emotionally challenging aspects include handling euthanasia and end-of-life care, which can take an emotional toll. Compassion fatigue is essential, and developing healthy coping and stress-management strategies early is essential. Physical and time commitments involve long hours, heavy lifting, and being on your feet for extended periods. High responsibility is expected, with tasks ranging from surgery assistance to managing laboratory tests.
Interpersonal and professional challenges include improving communication skills, coordinating with distressed pet owners, and ensuring professional utilization. Transitioning from experience to formal education requires adjusting to a structured, theory-driven approach that complements practical experience. By preparing for these challenges through solid study habits, seeking mentorship, and developing self-care routines, you will be better equipped to succeed in your program and build a resilient foundation for your veterinary career.
Alicia Fertig
Registered Veterinary Technician
9
Answers
Keyser, West Virginia
Updated
Alicia’s Answer
I would be prepared for rude clients, no show appointments, emergencies that potentially delay the rest of your day.
Be patient, put yourself in your clie ts shoes, and try to understand where they are coming from
Be patient, put yourself in your clie ts shoes, and try to understand where they are coming from
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1326
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Kaydee,
I would diffenetely like to say you have recieved really great advices. And it's great to know first hand to consider the career before going into it so you are doing really great already. 🎉🤗
Now, first comes is the strong communication skills, Yea, which is actually your best friend in the veterinary field. As Dr. Keith Kinsley wisely pointed out, being clear, concise, and professional makes life easier for everyone—🤔whether you’re explaining a complex procedure to a pet owner or reassuring a nervous client. You’ll be surprised how much smoother your day goes when you can deliver information confidently, and maybe with a little humor when the moment allows😉. Just remmeber clear communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a superpower. 💪😌
Alright so about emotional resilience because, honestly, this job is no walk in the park, though there will be dogs involved ofcourse. Yoga Dwi Pradana made an excellent point about the emotional toll of working with sick animals, performing euthanasia, or dealing with cases of neglect. It’s tough. 🫡 You’ll have days when your heart feels heavy—but remember, the work you do changes lives. Finding ways to decompress, like puppy cuddles, and talking to people who get it will keep you from burning out. Know It’s totally okay to care deeply—that’s what makes you good at this but you should also know how to care for yourself too. It's really important!
Okay don’t underestimate the physical side of the job. Why? Well because you’ll be on your feet, lifting, restraining, and possibly wrestling a 90-pound dog who "swears" he doesn’t need a nail trim. 😶 Yoga mentioned the importance of self-care, and it’s spot on—learn proper lifting techniques, stretch (yes, like a real athlete), and invest in comfy shoes. Your back will thank you in the future and present, staying healthy is also the key to a healthier life-now I sound like a podcast-do I? 🤪
Okay okay.
One thing that often flies under the radar is Dealing with pet owners. 👀 Most are wonderful, but some... not so much🤫. You’ll meet people who think Google outranks your years of training, I mean who doesn't, and others who struggle with the emotional and financial side of pet care. Understandable! Patience, professionalism, and a touch of empathy go a long way. And on the rough days? Just Remember: you’re there for the animals—always. ♥️
Okay you will be wondering and yes let’s not forget the money talk.
As Dr. Kinsley pointed out, understanding the economics of veterinary practice is huge—whether you dream of owning a clinic or just want to navigate the realities of vet tech salaries. Be smart about finances from the start—look into scholarships, certifications that boost your earning potential, and ways to keep learning without breaking the bank. 😏
Now one thing I want to also tell you is that organization and time management will save your life. Vet clinics are fast-paced, chaotic, and no two days are the same. Being able to juggle surgeries, lab work, client calls, and surprise emergencies is a skill worth developing (because someone’s dog always eats something weird😱). A well-organized vet tech is an unstoppable one. 💪
Also, find a mentor. Seriously. Having someone you trust to guide you through the wild world of veterinary medicine is a game-changer. Ask questions—even the ones that feel silly—and soak up their wisdom.
Lastly, keep your sense of humor close. 😁🤗 Some days will be tough, some will be gross (let’s be real), and others will be ridiculously heartwarming. Laugh when you can, cry if you need to, and always celebrate the wins—whether it’s saving a life or just making a nervous puppy feel safe. 🥰 You’re about to embark on a rewarding, challenging, and downright amazing career. You’ve got the passion Kaydee now it's your time to go crush it! All the best! 😉
I would diffenetely like to say you have recieved really great advices. And it's great to know first hand to consider the career before going into it so you are doing really great already. 🎉🤗
Now, first comes is the strong communication skills, Yea, which is actually your best friend in the veterinary field. As Dr. Keith Kinsley wisely pointed out, being clear, concise, and professional makes life easier for everyone—🤔whether you’re explaining a complex procedure to a pet owner or reassuring a nervous client. You’ll be surprised how much smoother your day goes when you can deliver information confidently, and maybe with a little humor when the moment allows😉. Just remmeber clear communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a superpower. 💪😌
Alright so about emotional resilience because, honestly, this job is no walk in the park, though there will be dogs involved ofcourse. Yoga Dwi Pradana made an excellent point about the emotional toll of working with sick animals, performing euthanasia, or dealing with cases of neglect. It’s tough. 🫡 You’ll have days when your heart feels heavy—but remember, the work you do changes lives. Finding ways to decompress, like puppy cuddles, and talking to people who get it will keep you from burning out. Know It’s totally okay to care deeply—that’s what makes you good at this but you should also know how to care for yourself too. It's really important!
Okay don’t underestimate the physical side of the job. Why? Well because you’ll be on your feet, lifting, restraining, and possibly wrestling a 90-pound dog who "swears" he doesn’t need a nail trim. 😶 Yoga mentioned the importance of self-care, and it’s spot on—learn proper lifting techniques, stretch (yes, like a real athlete), and invest in comfy shoes. Your back will thank you in the future and present, staying healthy is also the key to a healthier life-now I sound like a podcast-do I? 🤪
Okay okay.
One thing that often flies under the radar is Dealing with pet owners. 👀 Most are wonderful, but some... not so much🤫. You’ll meet people who think Google outranks your years of training, I mean who doesn't, and others who struggle with the emotional and financial side of pet care. Understandable! Patience, professionalism, and a touch of empathy go a long way. And on the rough days? Just Remember: you’re there for the animals—always. ♥️
Okay you will be wondering and yes let’s not forget the money talk.
As Dr. Kinsley pointed out, understanding the economics of veterinary practice is huge—whether you dream of owning a clinic or just want to navigate the realities of vet tech salaries. Be smart about finances from the start—look into scholarships, certifications that boost your earning potential, and ways to keep learning without breaking the bank. 😏
Now one thing I want to also tell you is that organization and time management will save your life. Vet clinics are fast-paced, chaotic, and no two days are the same. Being able to juggle surgeries, lab work, client calls, and surprise emergencies is a skill worth developing (because someone’s dog always eats something weird😱). A well-organized vet tech is an unstoppable one. 💪
Also, find a mentor. Seriously. Having someone you trust to guide you through the wild world of veterinary medicine is a game-changer. Ask questions—even the ones that feel silly—and soak up their wisdom.
Lastly, keep your sense of humor close. 😁🤗 Some days will be tough, some will be gross (let’s be real), and others will be ridiculously heartwarming. Laugh when you can, cry if you need to, and always celebrate the wins—whether it’s saving a life or just making a nervous puppy feel safe. 🥰 You’re about to embark on a rewarding, challenging, and downright amazing career. You’ve got the passion Kaydee now it's your time to go crush it! All the best! 😉
Keith Kinsley
Veterinarian
2
Answers
Farmington, Minnesota
Updated
Keith’s Answer
Kaydee, best of luck as you move forward with this career pathway first of all!
There are three items I wished I had a better handle on when beginning practice that are not taught in veterinary school:
1. Communication skills - these can always be better and your ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with the appropriate level of authority/expertise for each situation will go a long way.
2. Economics (especially of veterinary practice) - depending your interest in owning a practice or field of practice ultimately chosen (herd health primarily) you will need to understand the economics of your specific industry served. Ask lots of questions of those you encounter in practice or those already doing the roles you see yourself doing in the future.
3. Leadership - there are some opportunities to do this in veterinary school, but more exist outside and help you to be a better rounded person outside of living and breathing vet med 24 hours per day. You will spend enough time doing this in veterinary school so taking those opportunities that cultivate other avenues in life, allow the potential for leadership roles, and show you can committ go a long way towards helping to prove to yourself you are capable of this type of growth.
You will learn the techniques needed to become a veterinarian while in school, but often you need to seek those other items that may, or may not, be of interest on your own and likely from external sources.
There are three items I wished I had a better handle on when beginning practice that are not taught in veterinary school:
1. Communication skills - these can always be better and your ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with the appropriate level of authority/expertise for each situation will go a long way.
2. Economics (especially of veterinary practice) - depending your interest in owning a practice or field of practice ultimately chosen (herd health primarily) you will need to understand the economics of your specific industry served. Ask lots of questions of those you encounter in practice or those already doing the roles you see yourself doing in the future.
3. Leadership - there are some opportunities to do this in veterinary school, but more exist outside and help you to be a better rounded person outside of living and breathing vet med 24 hours per day. You will spend enough time doing this in veterinary school so taking those opportunities that cultivate other avenues in life, allow the potential for leadership roles, and show you can committ go a long way towards helping to prove to yourself you are capable of this type of growth.
You will learn the techniques needed to become a veterinarian while in school, but often you need to seek those other items that may, or may not, be of interest on your own and likely from external sources.
Keith Kinsley
Veterinarian
2
Answers
Farmington, Minnesota
Updated
Keith’s Answer
Kaylee, best of luck as you move forward with this career pathway first of all!
There are three items I wished I had a better handle on when beginning practice that are not taught in veterinary school:
1. Communication skills - these can always be better and your ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with the appropriate level of authority/expertise for each situation will go a long way.
2. Economics (especially of veterinary practice) - depending your interest in owning a practice or field ultimately chosen (herd health primarily) you will need to understand the economics of your specific industry served. Ask lots of questions of those you encounter in practice or the already doing the roles you see yourself doing in the future.
3. Leadership - there are some opportunities to do this in veterinary school, but more exist outside and help you to be a better rounded person outside of living and breathing vet med 24 hours per day. You will spend enough time doing this in veterinary school so taking those opportunities that cultivate other avenues in life, allow the potential for leadership roles, and show you can committed go a long way towards helping to prove to yourself you are capable of this type of growth.
You will learn the techniques needed to become a veterinarian while in school, but often you need to seek those other items that may, or may not, be of interest on your own and from external sources.
There are three items I wished I had a better handle on when beginning practice that are not taught in veterinary school:
1. Communication skills - these can always be better and your ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with the appropriate level of authority/expertise for each situation will go a long way.
2. Economics (especially of veterinary practice) - depending your interest in owning a practice or field ultimately chosen (herd health primarily) you will need to understand the economics of your specific industry served. Ask lots of questions of those you encounter in practice or the already doing the roles you see yourself doing in the future.
3. Leadership - there are some opportunities to do this in veterinary school, but more exist outside and help you to be a better rounded person outside of living and breathing vet med 24 hours per day. You will spend enough time doing this in veterinary school so taking those opportunities that cultivate other avenues in life, allow the potential for leadership roles, and show you can committed go a long way towards helping to prove to yourself you are capable of this type of growth.
You will learn the techniques needed to become a veterinarian while in school, but often you need to seek those other items that may, or may not, be of interest on your own and from external sources.