October Article

Technician Programs Available in Wisconsin

Dear Doctor: I absolutely love animals, so I am interested in becoming a Veterinary Technician. When I looked on-line, there was a lot of information for distance learning programs. Which one is best?
Signed, Karrie in Amherst

Dear Karrie:
A career working with animals can be very rewarding! It is important to remember this career also involves working with people of all types, so it is essential that you also enjoy daily contact with the public. What I typically recommend to anyone interested in this profession is to "job shadow" at a variety of clinics to get a feel for what the job entails on a day-to-day basis. I have seen some people that were convinced that this was their calling, and some that realize this would not be suitable for them for a variety of reasons. It is always ideal to determine this before starting any schooling, if possible.

If you decide that this is your chosen career path, you could pursue training as a Veterinary Technician or as a Technician's Assistant. In Wisconsin, these programs generally require a high-school diploma (or GED), with an emphasis on science classes. The only accredited Veterinary Technician program in the state that is taught in the classroom is located in Madison, at MATC. Another accredited Veterinary Technician program is based at Moraine Park Technical College in Fond du Lac, with a combination of on-line coursework and practical clinical training at participating veterinary hospitals. The goal of these programs is to provide the education and training necessary to perform laboratory testing and radiography, as well as manage patients in diagnostic, anesthetic and surgical procedures. After completion of these programs, you would be eligible to take the state testing to become a licensed Certified Veterinary Technician. This certification is not mandatory in the state of Wisconsin, but does afford you more opportunities in the work place. Each of these programs requires a two-year commitment, with an estimated tuition of $6500.00 to 9400.00, plus expenses, depending on the program.

Another option to consider is training to become a Veterinary Assistant, with courses available in Appleton at Horizon School of Veterinary Assisting. This is a classroom based program that will teach you the basic skills to assist technicians and veterinarians. This program requires a nine month commitment, with tuition of approximately $ 5,400 for the term. This program does not prepare you for the state testing to become a Certified Veterinary Technician.

In regard to the other distance learning programs that you found, it is important to choose one that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association to be certain that you have the correct training in classroom material, as well as practical hands-on training. I believe it is best to focus on the programs noted above instead of registering for courses on-line in another state. It is also possible to obtain training on-the-job at many clinics, without a degree. It will take quite a while to learn all of the basic skills, so patience and dedication are essential if you want to succeed in this type of career.

I wish you luck in pursuit of your dream!