What Does it Take to Become a Veterinary Technician in Ohio?
It's no surprise that veterinary technology is an in-demand profession. With the need for qualified professionals who can provide essential healthcare services to animals on the rise, many are turning to the field of veterinary technology as an exciting career path. But what exactly does it take to become a Veterinary Technician in Ohio? Let’s take a closer look.
Formal Education
The first step to becoming a Veterinary Technician in Ohio is to obtain a formal education in the field. You must complete a program approved by the Ohio State Veterinary Medical Board (OSVMB). This typically takes two to four years, depending on the type of program you pursue. The most common program is the two-year Associate in Applied Science. As part of your studies, you will take courses in anatomy, physiology, animal nutrition, medical and surgical nursing, and animal behavior.
Pass Required Tests
After completing your formal education, you must pass a pair of state-administered tests to become certified. The first test is the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). This consists of 170 multiple choice questions, covering topics such as physiology, pharmacology, ethics, laboratory procedures, laboratory animal care, and more. You must complete the VTNE to be eligible to take the Ohio Veterinary Technician Examination (OVTE). This test is designed to gauge your readiness to practice as a Veterinary Technician in Ohio.
Gain Work Experience
Once you have passed the state-administered tests, you will need to gain work experience in the field of veterinary technology. This may include taking on an internship, working in a veterinary hospital, or shadowing a veterinarian. The amount of work experience required varies from state to state, but is generally between one and two years. You may also be required to complete continuing education courses.
Apply for Certification
Once you have obtained the necessary education, passed the required tests, and gained the required work experience, you can apply for certification with the OSVMB. The application will require you to provide information such as your name, address, and contact information, educational background, work experience, and the names and contact information of three references. The application fee is typically around $50.
Maintain Certification
In order to maintain certification, you must renew your registration every two years. You will also be required to complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. This can be done through a variety of activities, such as taking courses in animal nutrition, clinical laboratory techniques, radiography, and more.
How Much Does a Vet Tech Make in Ohio?
The salary for Veterinary Technicians in Ohio varies depending on the employer and the location of the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Veterinary Technicians in the state was $32,200 in 2019. This is significantly higher than the national median annual wage of $33,400 for the same year.
Advance Your Career
Once you have become certified, you can continue to advance your career in the field of veterinary technology. There are a variety of ways to do this, including specializing in a particular area such as dentistry or surgery. You can also further your education by pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in veterinary technology.
Conclusion
Becoming a Veterinary Technician in Ohio is a rewarding career choice that requires a great deal of dedication and hard work. From obtaining a formal education to passing required tests, gaining work experience, and applying for certification, the process is rigorous but achievable. The salary for Veterinary Technicians in Ohio is competitive, and those who choose to specialize and further their education can find even greater opportunity in the field.
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