Veterinary Technician VTT1

Holland Code: I (Investigative)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy- Strong written and verbal communications skills are needed

Math and Science- Basic math needed for calculations. A keen interest in anatomy, nutrition and biology is needed. 

Technology- An interest in technology and computer skills is an asset. 

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Enjoy working with and caring for animals
• Able to remain calm under pressure and in emergencies
• Able to cope in busy/changing environments
• Ability to co-operate and work as part of a team
• Able to pay strong attention to detail
• Able to make decisions quickly & confidently
• Excellent verbal communicator

Useful background experience for this program would be

Experience with animals is beneficial: volunteering at a local animal shelter, veterinary clinic or wildlife rehabilitation centre, working on a farm or petting zoo

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to …

Support various veterinary practitioners, public health officers and biomedical research scientists, opening the door to varied career options.

Places you may find yourself employed include …

Graduates will be able to work in veterinary hospitals, including emergency clinics and specialty clinics, diagnostic labs, animal shelters, wildlife sanctuaries, research facilities, and zoos. Other careers include veterinary pharmaceutical sales, livestock health management and food animal inspections.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

Standing for long periods and working outdoors are typical for those that choose to work with livestock. Physical requirements include being able to safely lift animals and other supplies.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Obtaining and processing diagnostic radiographs and ultrasound
• Administration and dispensation of medications and treatments as prescribed by the attending veterinarian
• Providing optimum husbandry, restraint and handling
• Anaesthetic delivery and monitoring
• Prevention and control of zoonotic diseases and biosecurity protocols
• Nutrition management
• Animal behaviour and welfare
• Breeding, reproduction, and neonatal care
• Professional practice administration, veterinary hospital management and client relations
• Diagnostic laboratory tests (hematology, clinical chemistry, cytology, and urinalysis)
• Routine, intensive and emergency care of animals
• Exotic animal medicine
• Extensive anatomy and physiology training
• Sanitation, sterilization and disinfection controls and procedures
• In-depth knowledge of dental structures, conditions and lesions, causes and stages of diseases
• Surgical preparation and assistance
• Microbiology, immunology, bacteriology, parasitology, zoonoses, and virology

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians- www.oavt.org
• Students wishing to pursue further specialized education upon graduation can visit Navta.net 
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

There are requirements for all Registered Veterinary Technicians to complete a set number of hours of continuing education each year to maintain their registered status. There are many opportunities for continuing education, including online courses, in-person workshops and annual conferences across Canada and North America.

Last Modified: February 4, 2025