My Vet Tech Story: Karen Bass, CVT

Karen Bass is truly an inspiration to the veterinary technician profession. She graduated from vet tech school in her 50's after working in the industry on and off for years- proving it is never to late to do what you love. She works as a CVT and manager at a no-kill shelter and you will enjoy her story and many pearls of wisdom!

VTP: When did you become a vet tech and how has your experience evolved into what it is today?

KB: I’ve been in veterinary medicine off and on, for approximately 20 years. My career in this amazing industry started as kennel help in a Veterinary Clinic/Boarding Facility. I spent many years soaking up as much information as I could via on the job training.  I’ve worked in private general practice, emergency clinics, and shelters. It wasn't until I was in my late 40’s that I decided to go to Tech School, get a degree, and become certified in this industry. Graduating at 50 something, I walked the stage in a cap & gown for the first time in my life, with my adult son and grandchildren in the auditorium. It was truly a glorious day!

In my current position as a CVT, Veterinary Medical Manager, I manage surgeries, animal health issues, inventory, department budget, medical staff and all other medical related matters in a privately owned, NO KILL 501(c)(3) animal shelter. I work closely with other managers, directors and board members, as well as clients and the general public. It’s an extremely rewarding position.

VTP: What is the an interesting case you have seen in practice or something you have learned about being a vet tech?

KB: One of the most fascinating cases I’ve had the pleasure of assisting with was an Osteosarcoma in the rear hind limb of a rescued, retired Greyhound. Two amazing Veterinarians and myself amputated the entire limb, including the femoral head using laser almost exclusively. There are so many fascinating cases in this field and many opportunities to see different aspects of animal care in veterinary medicine. A valuable lesson I’ve learned in my life and my career, is that if you seek experience and have a hunger for knowledge, it’s out there and this is a great industry for variety.

VTP: How do you cope with job-related stress?

This is a very rewarding, interesting, yet stressful profession. It’s so important to understand that “Compassion Fatigue” IS a real thing. Regardless of how much you love it, it will get to you after a while. In order to be successful and maintain your compassion, it’s imperative that you have an outlet to recharge your batteries.

My personal outlets are hiking and exploring new creeks and lakes across Arizona with my dogs. I also enjoy the gym a few days a week and morning meditation. Whatever makes your heart smile and relaxes your body and mind, is a must if you want a long happy career in veterinary medicine.

VTP: Tell us about your family and pets.

KB: I’m the proud mother of 1 adult, human son and 3 amazing grandkids. I also share my life and home with my 3 fur boys. Cattom, my cat is 8 years old.

I adopted him at 8 weeks old as a 2nd birthday gift to my big white Boxer boy Masson, who was a gift to me when he was 6 weeks old. He’s almost 10 yrs old now. Masson had bilateral TPLO cruciate surgeries just before turning 2 years old. Trying to keep up with an agilities dog, he blew both of his cruciate ligaments. He was confined to a grate for 6 months, only out for controlled potty breaks. So, his birthday kitty, Cattom kept him company in the crate while he recovered. 8 years later, they’re still best friends, they sleep together and groom one another daily.

Charlie is my 1-year old Jack Russell/ChiChi mix. He was dropped off at our shelter at about 5 weeks of age. All 4 of his feet were severely turned outwardly (hence the name “Charlie Chaplin”) as though he grew in a much too small space, perhaps in a tiny chichi momma? Another team member and myself took turns fostering him because he was barely 1.5 lbs. When he was about 3 months old, being the daredevil he is, he broke his front leg jumping a baby gate. I then took him home to foster full time while he recovered. He, Masson & Cattom developed very interesting and beneficial relationships. His feet are now almost completely normal. Long story short, He is my “foster fail”. I couldn’t be happier.

VTP: What is your favorite duty in your job? What is it about your specific job that makes you happy and feel valued?

KB: In general, I think the best part of my work is being able to educate others. The more knowledge I am able to impart on my community, the greater the quality of life their furry companions have. In my current position at Sun Valley Animal Shelter in Glendale, Arizona, the most rewarding part of my work is when we have an extremely fearful, dirty, hungry, homeless, or neglected animal walk through our door, we pull together as a team, each of us with our own unique talent and passion, and we transform that animal into a healthy, well cared for, nutritionally satisfied and happy thriving cat or dog. They then go into the perfect forever home to have the life ALL animals deserve. There’s just not words that can completely describe that feeling.

VTP: Any words of wisdom for those preparing to be a vet tech or are considering this as a future job?

KB: I’d like to offer two pieces of advice to anyone with a passion for this animals, their care and well-being. To anyone thinking about becoming a Vet Tech.

1) Although on the job training is of great value, GO TO SCHOOL! Get a degree in Veterinary Technology; sit for the exam and get your credentials. It’s well worth the time and effort. It’ll open many doors in your career.

 2) Once you graduate and decide to sit for the VTNE exam, GET the VetTechPrep program! It’s the best decision I’ve made in preparing for this brutal exam. I took the exam two months out of school, fresh with knowledge and without VetTechPrep. I FAILED it. Not only was that a costly lesson, it’s extremely disheartening. My friend, who had already passed the VTNE recommended the VetTechPrep program. I felt it was a little expensive, she assured me it was well worth the fee. I purchased the 90-day plan and due to a lengthy hospital stay was unable to use it or sit for the next exam. However, I didn’t give up. I purchased the 90 program again and utilized it every single second I could have access to either my laptop, iPad, or Smart phone, which we all have in our hands more often than not. I studied while on vacation, while in the restroom, while riding as a passenger in the car, etc. I was a studying machine. Once again, it was exam time... I PASSED with flying colors. I have zero regrets. If you use the program as instructed and actually put in the work, You WILL pass.

 There are so many exciting moments awaiting you in this field. Learn all you can, study hard and be the best Credentialed Veterinary Technician you can be. Your patients will thank you in so many remarkable ways.