I doubt this is the right spot but here it goes. I'm 20yo and have decided that helping animals is a career that I would actually enjoy and not hate doing every day. I'm from NJ and would like some info from people that do this. I'm in middlesex county and would like to find aschool a bit closer to me if possible. Nearest one is an hour away and I would like to get this started while still living at home. If you have any info please help me out. Right now I feel like I am going to school for nothing. Thanks
Veterinary technician ?'s
- Thread starter spexmoneymaker
- Start date
Before you decide on the Vet tech. do some research and find out how many positions are open and the pay structure in your area. My ex took one of those online courses and when she was done got offered a position for $16k a year and she was already making $25k at her former job. She couldnt take the decrease in pay even though she loved animals. Not trying to discourage you but do some research before you get started. Good Luck.
I used to be a vt, don't do the online courses. Most of them are not accredited and your degree/certificate won't be recognized. Trucker is right, make sure you research the schools to make sure the are accredited and that the have a well thought of program. Money isn't great at most small clinics,but some larger clinics or chains (like Banfield) you might make some better salaries. It is very rewarding work and I enjoyed it alot. I do believe Purdue University has an accredited online program so check that out. I do think that it is just as expense as attending the college in person.
I would def want to take classes in person. a cut in salary isnt really of much concern since i am young and currently just workin part time at fedex. I would consider this a stepping stone to build my career on. anymore 1st hand experiences would be great.
Just my opinion, but FedEx can probably offer you a career instead of a job. They offer full benefits, investment opportunities, and even retirement fund contributions. Those are probably not important to you now, but eventually, you will love the benefits they provide later in life. It might seem pointless or less than interesting at this point, but I'm from the school of sticking to something and working my way up. I started off in my industry (insurance) doing the low end stuff and now run my own company making mid 6 figures even in bad years.
Caring for animals is personally rewarding, but beyond the assistant positions, a TON of schooling is needed to jump into a higher level, such as an accredited veterinarian.
Caring for animals is personally rewarding, but beyond the assistant positions, a TON of schooling is needed to jump into a higher level, such as an accredited veterinarian.
I've worked in animal hospitals since I was 16. I love the job, the animals, and the feeling that I'm helping them. Unfortunately, the pay for a vet tech is averaging from 20k to 30k a year, depending on experience and length of time at a particular hospital. To make any kind of living in the veterinary industry as it has become, you have to be a vet, and that requires a but load of schooling. If you want to go to school for 8 years, then go for it.
I've changed my career to nursing, personally. They are having a large shortage of nurses all over the country right now. Not to mention starting salary can be double or triple that of a tech, with the same amount of schooling.
I've changed my career to nursing, personally. They are having a large shortage of nurses all over the country right now. Not to mention starting salary can be double or triple that of a tech, with the same amount of schooling.
All good answers. The health industry is the only secure job upon leaving school I see. Also remember to think about what a vet tech really does. There are all sorts of dutys that have to be done at a vet's office that are less than glamourous and have little to do with animals themselves.
IMO If you like animals that much and are young just go the full vet. route. Yes more school, more money, but a more secure career and better reward at the end. Everyone's looking for the easy way out, that's why minimal schooling jobs are so flooded.
IMO If you like animals that much and are young just go the full vet. route. Yes more school, more money, but a more secure career and better reward at the end. Everyone's looking for the easy way out, that's why minimal schooling jobs are so flooded.