A New York licensed veterinary technician has completed a program approved by the New York State Education Department and has passed a national written examination. The services of a veterinarian may be used any time an animal requires medical treatment. This may be for an injury, illness, a nutritional problem, an annual physical examination, or for vaccinations. A New York veterinarian must treat an animal in need of immediate care or make reasonable arrangements for that care. Most veterinarians offer a full range of diagnostic, surgical, and radiological procedures.
Many practices also provide animal boarding services for the convenience of their clients.
Some veterinarians have completed advanced training and research in specialty areas such as ophthalmology, internal medicine, surgery, and dermatology, among others. Your veterinarian may refer you to such a specialist when it is necessary, and professional associations may be able to provide the names of their members who have been certified in specialty areas of practice. New York State does not issue these specialty credentials. Under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, veterinary technicians prepare and give medications as ordered by the veterinarian, take x-rays, induce and maintain anesthesia, and assist with medical and surgical procedures. The most reliable source of information about good veterinary practice may be a recommendation from a satisfied friend or relative.