The role of a Veterinary Technician can be likened to that of a nurse who works with a doctor. In private practice, the Veterinary Technician works under supervision of a Veterinarian, and carries out tasks such as taking blood and tissue samples, performing laboratory tests, caring for hospitalized animals, and recording patient medical histories.

Veterinary Technicians may also be employed in research facilities that use animals, and will work closely with other laboratory personnel to ensure the animals are well cared-for during the course of research and experimental procedures. In this setting they are responsible for caring for animals, preparing and administering medications and food, and monitoring the animals for signs of pain or distress.

Veterinary Technicians should have a love of animals and a strong interest in promoting animal welfare, regardless of the setting in which they work. They should be able to work well with animals, and be able to remain calm when working with stressed animals that may be in pain, and may bite or scratch. Veterinary Technicians should also be able to cope well with stress, as working in Veterinary practice they will often be exposed to animals that have been injured or mistreated.