Consider This Booming Career: Veterinary Technician

In 2006, American pet owners spent a collective $38.4 billion on their furry friends. And aside from food, the majority of these dollars were spent on veterinary care.

But many pet owners say it's worth it when they consider what pets do for them. Researchers in the UK recently released a study suggesting that dog ownership can actually help people recover from illnesses more quickly, can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and can even help to detect early warning signs of cancer, seizures, or hypoglycemia.

Sniff Out Opportunity in Veterinary Technician Jobs

With the proliferation of pet therapy programs, and evolving technologies and medicines now available to treat pets, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that veterinary technician jobs should grow much faster than average through 2014. That's why you should consider enrolling in an online degree program to become a veterinary technician.

Veterinary technicians obtain and record patient histories, collect specimens, perform lab procedures, prepare animals and equipment for surgery, assist in diagnostic procedures, and even work with owners to advise them about pet health. Veterinary technician jobs are found in veterinarians' offices, as well as in research labs, assisting with research projects to ensure the safety of animals. You'll also find veterinary technicians in colleges, zoos or wildlife facilities, veterinary supply companies, and humane societies.

An online degree program for veterinary technicians provides theoretical training in basic animal anatomy and in the use of diagnostic or medical equipment. The benefits of an online degree include freedom, so that even if you live in a remote area, you can receive up-to-date instruction when you're ready for it.

So begin your online degree program now, and begin training for one of the thousands of veterinary technician jobs opening each year. You'll see the many ways that pets really are man's best friends.

Sources

American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc., "Industry Statistics & Trends"
American Veterinary Medical Association, "Becoming a Veterinary Technician"
Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Veterinary Technologists and Technicians"
Medical News Today, "Owning a Dog is Good for Your Health"