What does L.V.T. stand for?
Licensed Veterinary Technician

What is a licensed veterinary technician?
A Licensed veterinary technician is an individual who has earned a degree, A.A.S., B.A. or B.S., in veterinary technology from an AVMA-accredited program offered throughout the United States. A graduate must then pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination regulated by the board of veterinary medical examiners which is only available twice a year. A passing mark earns the title of L.V.T.

How long does it take to become a licensed veterinary technician?
Two years for an A.A.S. degree, and four years for a Baccalaureate degree

Do all veterinary technicians have a license?
No. Each state has different requirements. NYS law requires that specific tasks in veterinary hospitals be carried out only by a Licensed Veterinary Technician. A veterinary technician can also be certified, or registered in other states.

What is the difference between a veterinary assistant and a L.V.T.?
A veterinary assistant is someone that has received on the job training in performing tasks required in a veterinary hospital. This person functions to assist an L.V.T. similar to a nurse's aide in human medicine. A veterinary technician student currently enrolled in an AVMA-accredited program can also perform the same tasks of a licensed veterinary technician in NYS under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

What is the difference between a C.V.T, L.V.T, and R.V.T?
C.V.T and R.V.T are limited, depending on which state they are working in, on what procedures they are allowed to perform. L.V.Ts are allowed to perform more procedures. Most states require certification, registration or licensure. New York State was the first state to have regulations for Veterinary Technicians requiring them to be licensed.

What role does a veterinary technician have in the veterinary hospital?
A veterinary technician, also commonly called a vet tech, is an integral member of the veterinary health care team. The vet tech works under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. They are educated in the care and handling of many types of animals, including large animals, canines, felines, and exotic animals. They are also knowledgeable in the basic principles of normal and abnormal life processes, and in routine laboratory and clinical procedures.

What responsibilities do veterinary technicians have?
Many of the responsibilities carried out by a vet tech include the same responsibilities of human nurses and other health care professionals. These include:

• Obtaining and recording patient case histories

• Collecting specimens and performing lab procedures, including reading urinalyses, fecal samples, blood samples, and taking blood, etc.
• Preparing animals, instruments, and equipment for surgery
• Taking radiographs of animals
• Assisting in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures
• Advising and educating animal owners
• Supervising and training practice personnel
• Performing dental cleanings
• Assisting in exam rooms by restraining an animal

Veterinary Technician Oath

I solemnly dedicate myself
To aiding animals and society
By providing excellent care
And services for animals,
By alleviating animal suffering,
And by promoting public health.

I accept my obligations to practice
My profession conscientiously
And with sensitivity, adhering to
The profession's Code of Ethics,
And furthering my knowledge
And competence through a
Commitment to lifelong learning.