Veterinary Technician
The Oulton College Veterinary Technician Diploma Program prepares you for a career in the growing field of veterinary medicine. Advancement in diagnostics and treatments has resulted in an increased demand for Veterinary Technicians. In addition to ensuring the health care of companion animals, graduates also find employment in other related fields ranging from equine practice, to working in diagnostic laboratories, to veterinary supply and sales.
You are:
- Caring and kind
- Loving of animals
- Customer service oriented
- A people person
- A team player
What does a Veterinary Technician do?
Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians in the care of animals. They are called to perform many patient-focused tasks, and have specialized skills, allowing them to perform an initial evaluation of the animal’s condition, clean and wrap wounds, check vital statistics, collect samples and even administer medication.
What kinds of skills will I learn during the program?
Our Veterinary Technician Program provides hands-on practical experience and training in:
- Assisting in surgical procedures as Prep Nurse, OR Nurse, Surgical Assistant and Anesthetist: our NBVMA licensed on-site Veterinary Clinic allows students to assist with real surgeries on real animals.
- Collect, prepare and perform laboratory tests.
- Restraint and Animal Husbandry: our students go to animal shelters as well as equine, bovine and ovine farms.
- Administering Medication: students learn to administer vaccines and other drugs as prescribed by staff veterinarians.
- Dentistry: students learn how perform dental and exam procedures.
- Radiology: students learn radiation safety as well as care and use of x-ray generators, cassettes and processing.
What kinds of hands-on training will I receive?
During the 2 years of this program, you will share your time between the classroom, laboratory, our on-site Veterinary Clinic and numerous field trips to farms and animal shelters to practice your skills in the field. You will also take part in a six week Practicum placement in a clinic.
Is the program accredited?
Yes! Our program is the only accredited program in New Brunswick and follows standards set out by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. Graduates are eligible to write the VTNE credentialing exam enabling them to apply for licenses anywhere in North America.
What kind of jobs are available with this diploma?
In addition to ensuring the health care of companion animals, graduates also find employment in other related fields ranging from equine practice, to working in diagnostic laboratories, to veterinary supply and sales.
September Start
Term (Year 1): September – June
Term (Year 2): September – June
Practicum: 6 weeks
February Start
Term (Year 1): February-December
Term (Year 2): January-October
Practicum: 6 weeks
