Barb McCullough

My career path: 
A.S. Veterinary Technology, Harcum College, Bryn Mawr, PA 1977
P.A. License – Certified Veterinary Technician
Career : 
Veterinary Technician
About my career: 
I manage a veterinary hospital as well as perform all technician related work. Technician duties include drawing and processing blood samples, placing IV catheters, administering and monitoring anesthesias, taking x-rays, performing dental extractions and teeth cleaning, giving injections, surgical prep and recovery, medical nursing and client education. It can also include some not so glamorous jobs like cleaning kennels, doing laundry, cleaning up after a bloody surgery, walking dogs and collecting urine and stool samples. From the management aspect I hire and train staff (fire when necessary), create schedules for the staff, manage cash flow, bookkeeping, set protocols with the doctors, and troubleshoot day to day problems. This job is never dull! You never know what to expect from one day to the next. You will be constantly challenged to learn and take on new tasks. It is ever evolving
Contact: 
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My advice

If you choose this career path be prepared to work hard, get dirty and work long hours at times. It is not a high paying career, but advances are being made. Lots of options are available for employment including private practice, research, sales, government, zoos, private contractors, etc. Consider the stress of euthanasia on yourself. Some people cannot handle this portion of the business. Unfortunately it is an everyday occurrence that must be dealt with. Can you handle it? Also, volunteer at shelters and veterinary hospitals during your high school years to see if this is a career you really want to pursue.