3 answers
Megan
Student
Elyria, Ohio
2
Questions
Updated
732 views
What advice would you give to a person going into college to be a Veterinary Tech with a disability?
I have a disibilty called POTS
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3 answers
Amie Wagner
Animal Care Technician
5
Answers
Germantown, New York
Updated
Amie’s Answer
Hi Megan,
I've been a Veterinary Technician for over 20 years, and I've worked with colleagues who have POTS. A good tech school or employer will care about your needs. The work can be demanding, with little time for breaks, but here's some advice my colleagues found helpful:
1) Request flexible work hours to manage fatigue and symptoms. Take frequent breaks to stay hydrated. If others take smoke breaks, you can take health breaks. They can't discriminate against you because of a disability.
2) Find a quiet workspace to avoid sensory overload. Look for a spot to relax, either inside or outside.
3) Keep water and snacks handy throughout the day. Have healthy, easy-to-grab options nearby. Some hospitals even provide these for you.
4) Use supportive equipment like compression garments. You'll be moving in different ways to handle animals, and your blood pressure can change quickly during urgent situations.
5) Interestingly, most Veterinary facilities I've worked in have had HVAC, heating and cooling problems in high winter and high summer. You CAN ask to go home early if the severe heat or cold is a poor work environment on a given day. It's better than being sent to the hospital, which happened to a colleague because she felt pressured to work in extreme heat.
6) Always stand up for yourself. This is essential.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best in your career. Stay as healthy as you can!
Amie
I've been a Veterinary Technician for over 20 years, and I've worked with colleagues who have POTS. A good tech school or employer will care about your needs. The work can be demanding, with little time for breaks, but here's some advice my colleagues found helpful:
1) Request flexible work hours to manage fatigue and symptoms. Take frequent breaks to stay hydrated. If others take smoke breaks, you can take health breaks. They can't discriminate against you because of a disability.
2) Find a quiet workspace to avoid sensory overload. Look for a spot to relax, either inside or outside.
3) Keep water and snacks handy throughout the day. Have healthy, easy-to-grab options nearby. Some hospitals even provide these for you.
4) Use supportive equipment like compression garments. You'll be moving in different ways to handle animals, and your blood pressure can change quickly during urgent situations.
5) Interestingly, most Veterinary facilities I've worked in have had HVAC, heating and cooling problems in high winter and high summer. You CAN ask to go home early if the severe heat or cold is a poor work environment on a given day. It's better than being sent to the hospital, which happened to a colleague because she felt pressured to work in extreme heat.
6) Always stand up for yourself. This is essential.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best in your career. Stay as healthy as you can!
Amie
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
316
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
Starting college with a disability might seem tough, but it doesn't mean you can't succeed in your chosen field. A great first step is to reach out to your school's disability or accessibility services office. They can help set up things like extra time for exams, flexibility for flare-ups, or adjustments for hands-on activities. Many students find these supports make a big difference.
Since veterinary technician programs involve a lot of physical work, it's helpful to talk to your instructors about what you need to stay safe and comfortable. For conditions like POTS, staying hydrated, taking breaks, and pacing yourself during long lab days can help you manage your energy and symptoms.
Remember to be kind to yourself as you get used to college life. Balancing school, health, and other responsibilities takes time. Many people with chronic conditions have successful and rewarding careers with animals. If you're passionate about becoming a veterinary tech, there are ways to make it work with the right support and strategies.
Since veterinary technician programs involve a lot of physical work, it's helpful to talk to your instructors about what you need to stay safe and comfortable. For conditions like POTS, staying hydrated, taking breaks, and pacing yourself during long lab days can help you manage your energy and symptoms.
Remember to be kind to yourself as you get used to college life. Balancing school, health, and other responsibilities takes time. Many people with chronic conditions have successful and rewarding careers with animals. If you're passionate about becoming a veterinary tech, there are ways to make it work with the right support and strategies.
Cassandra Sutton
Disabled
110
Answers
Antigo, Wisconsin
Updated
Cassandra’s Answer
As a disabled person myself I understand. I n would find a specific job you enjoy that you can do with your disability and a place that can understand and accommodate you.