2 answers
3
Updated 311 views

What is the hardest part about being a Veterinary Technician?

I am planning on going to COCC for their Vet Tech program. I have a huge passion for animals but I am curious what the hardest part of the job is as I'm sure there's a lot. The people I have spoken with about it all seem to love their jobs but I want to understand better some of the hard ships that come along with being a CVT.

spring25 animal-health veterinary-technician vettech veterinarytechnician cocc
Answer This
3

2 answers

0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Brandie’s Answer

This is a tricky question to answer as it can vary from person to person. Elective or behavioral euthanasias are difficult for me. You have to learn to detach a bit for any euthanasia (even if it's time) but also show compassion for the clients and even hug them if it's appropriate. It's an emotional rollercoaster. I always like to ask about the pet's name or encourage them to share a story. I find it personalizes the experience and brings happiness into a difficult time. Urgent care and emergency cases are difficult because they tend to cost more than general practice visits and can be stressful and emotionally draining. Think marijuana toxicity, hit by car, broken legs, abscesses. Finding what you live in vet med and ideally finding a mentor is important. It will help you find silver linings in the tough times. I am an advocate for Fear Free and Cat Friendly handling and not all practices believe in such. I also love holistic pain management like laser, acupuncture, PEMF and TCVM in addition to traditional therapies and it's important that you and the DVM you are working with are on the same page about treatment options. Some people love dentals or emergency med or anesthesia. Finding your niche and growing that is important. Otherwise the tough stuff will bring you down. Another thing that I find difficult is when the owner is on a different mental plane than I am. Nothing shuts me down more than "It's just a cat. I'll get another one." Please don't! I love all my patients and even community cats. If you can think any living thing is "just a" then we will never see eye to eye. Be willing to admit when you don't know something but share you would love to learn.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Justin’s Answer

It’s hard to be a vet tech in general - it’s the most rewarding but hardest thing I’ve ever done! If I had to narrow it down, then I would say that the hardest part is navigating relationships with coworkers. Vet med has a history of providing toxic work cultures, so the ability to be resilient and the ability to communicate effectively in a way that benefits you is an absolute necessity.
0