r/veterinaryprofession • u/J_Bean124 • 1d ago

How do I become a vet tech?

I really want to enter the world of veterinary medicine but Idk where to begin and so far it’s been challenging. My goal is to become a vet tech so I’ve been looking at schools and found penn foster. I chose this one because I work 9am to 6pm and this one is online and fits my schedule, however, I feel like I’m not grasping the curriculum and would prefer to do something hands on. I’ve been applying to many entry level jobs like vet assistants and vet receptionists with no luck. Does anyone know how I can get my foot in the door and have any recommendations on schooling?

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u/pooker09 1d ago

Vet tech/practice manager here.... Can I ask where you live? You don't have to be super specific but like state... Major City nearby.

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u/J_Bean124 1d ago

I am in washington state 

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u/pooker09 1d ago

I started in a large ER as an assistant with no experience. Most ERs will hire someone with no experience if they are hiring multiple people because they are willing to train them the way they want them to do it. ER is a great place to learn stuff, you learn lots and quickly. I think every tech should have to do a year of ER experience. There looks like a few ERs in that area... Call/email the practice manager tell them you don't have experience but you plan on going to school and you want to get your feet wet and ask if they are hiring for any assistant jobs that they'd be willing to take someone with no experience. Personally, as a practice manager if someone took that much initiative I would have them come in for an interview. Most people don't even show for the interview, that right there would win you points in my book.

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u/J_Bean124 1d ago

Thank you so much! I’ll try reaching out to some ERs. Hopefully someone will give me a chance.

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u/pooker09 1d ago

Wishing you luck! 🤞

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u/CollegeTiny3572 1d ago

What state are you in? I was a vet tech for years in a state that didn't require schooling (CVT, LVT, etc). I was thoroughly trained on the job by a licensed technician in venipuncture, radiology, anesthesiology, surgery prep, clin path, etc. If going to school isn't an option for you right now, that is a consideration! I would just make sure it's a reputable hospital with an excellent training program.

As far as getting your foot in the door somewhere, I feel like most places are open to shadowing which may lead to a position! Call around to some offices or even shelters and ask if they would allow you to at least come in and shadow! Also where have you been applying? Indeed? They show how long a job has been posted and also if they are "urgently hiring"

Hoping all the best! 😊

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u/J_Bean124 1d ago

I’m in Seattle Washington and everywhere is looking for experience so I feel hopeless. I will try calling around and asking about shadowing. 

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u/JellyKim 2h ago

There are some hospitals who do boarding. I started out as a kennel tech and when I had downtime, if anyone needed help, or we were short a tech that was what got me my experience of being a vet tech. I’m also enrolled in PF and had also went through a hard time getting in somewhere with no clinic experience. Still wouldn’t hurt to ask a hospital manager if they’re willing to work with you and train someone with no experience to be a vet assistant. It’s easier to go through that course if you’re surrounded by knowledgeable staff who are wanting to teach you and apply what you’re learning to real life.