The veterinary technician is an integral member of the veterinary healthcare team. All veterinary technicians work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. While a veterinary technician can assist in performing a wide variety of tasks, they cannot diagnose, prescribe, perform surgery, or engage in any activity prohibited by Maryland’s veterinary practice act.
Veterinary technicians have been educated in the care and handling of animals, the basic principles of normal and abnormal life processes, and in many laboratory and clinical procedures.
Some of the tasks they are trained to do include:
- Obtain and record patient case histories
- Collect specimens and perform laboratory procedures
- Provide specialized nursing care
- Prepare animals, instruments, and equipment for surgery
- Handle anesthesia procedures
- Assist in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures
- Expose and develop radiographs (x-rays)
- Advise and educate animal owners
- Supervise and train practice personnel
- Perform dental prophylaxes