After that, many techs go into higher-paying careers, some go on to veterinary school and others quit work to raise their families. A vet-tech degree is not required for taking the boards. Anyone who works full time as a veterinary assistant for five years is eligible to attempt the tests, though the success rate is lower than for those who graduate from accredited schools. In his seven years as director of the Pierce College program, Teeple has had only one graduate fail an exam, and she passed on her second try. No specialized education or testing is required to become a veterinary assistant, though a training program increases an applicant's chances of landing a job.
Students often end up working for the vets with whom they interned.
We've tried to get rid of it, but it's very popular. It attracts people who are just animal lovers. We have the salaries posted, so if they still want to go into it, they're not in it for the money. Beth Taylor is an Edmonds free-lance writer. Become a Featured Employer.