The Savvy VetTech

National Wildlife Week as a Veterinary Technician

Written by Lori Hehn | Mar 13, 2015 5:24:00 PM
This is National Wildlife Week!
Most of us working in practice don't get to work much with wildlife or exotic animals. What is it like to be a vet tech in a wildlife or zoo job?
Did you know that veterinary technicians can specialize? VetTech Specialists
One of the areas can be zoo medicine or wildlife.
Wildlife veterinary technicians perform many duties. These may include: 
  • Assisting with exams or surgeries
  • Helping to capture or tranquilize animals for handling
  • Helping to transport animals if needed
  • Drawing blood, taking x-rays, and assisting with procedures
  • Helping with breeding programs
  • Assisting with husbandry issues
  • Administering vaccinations or medications
  • Assisting with rehabilitation or sick or injured animals
Are you interested in learning more or trying something new? There are several opportunities coming up this summer! Consider volunteering for your local wildlife rehabilitation center or refuge, as almost all areas have one. Or, consider applying for a wildlife or a zoo internship/externship either here in the U.S. or abroad!
Animal Experience International
Wildlife Externships for Technicians
Zoo programs for veterinary technicians
Job Listings for Zoo and Wildlife Tech Positions and other information