Have you ever wondered whether there’s any difference between a vet assistant and a vet tech? They are not the same thing, actually. There is a difference in training, duties, schooling, earnings, and professional outlook.

If we look at the root of all of these differences, we need to start with training and schooling. If you know someone who is a veterinary technician, this person has graduated from a two-year program of study. More importantly, the program is standardized, and accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. All veterinary techs have a strong skill set they have learned.

That’s not all. After they successfully complete and graduate from the two year program, they take an examination. It’s a state board examination, which they have to pass in order to be licensed as veterinary technicians in their state.

Veterinary assistants have a lot less training. Sometimes they have had some training in high school, or have completed a certificate program, but generally they only have on-the-job training from their employers. They don’t have any license, nor have they completed an accredited degree program.

Because of this, vet assistants’ job responsibilities are a lot more basic. They hold the animals during checkups, and also clean instruments and clinic areas like kennels and exam rooms. They also do some clerical work like filing or answering phones.

If you are a veterinary technician, however, you’ll be doing a lot more of the hands-on medical care of animals. Vet techs administer vaccinations, give x-rays, take and analyze samples, assist during surgeries and so on.

You have probably correctly surmised that the two positions don’t have the same pay scale. Vet technicians make a good bit more money and have better job prospects. They can earn $15 or more per hour with a few years experience, whereas your average vet assistant only earns around $9-10 per hour.

If you love animals and are looking at your career options, it’s far better to become a veterinary technician. If on the other hand you just want an everyday job that doesn’t require schooling, veterinary assistant is your best choice.

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