What is an RVT?
Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) are formally educated and trained professionals working as integral members of the veterinary health care team. Their education provides them with the theory and practical skills essential to offer the best possible medical care for animals. RVTs work under the direction of licensed veterinarians in small animal practice and are skilled in many areas. They are often the communicators and educators of the practice, triaging patients in emergency situations, and offering a gentle hand when our patients need it the most. Some areas of their expertise include:
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Obtaining and processing diagnostic radiographs and ultrasound
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Administration and dispensation of medications and treatments as prescribed by the attending veterinarian
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Providing optimum husbandry, restraint and handling
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Anaesthetic delivery and monitoring
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Prevention and control of zoonotic diseases and biosecurity protocols
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Nutrition management
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Animal behaviour and welfare
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Breeding, reproduction, and neonatal care
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Professional practice administration, veterinary hospital management and client relations
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Diagnostic laboratory tests (hematology, clinical chemistry, cytology, and urinalysis)
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Routine, intensive and emergency care of animals
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Exotic animal medicine
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Extensive anatomy and physiology training
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Sanitation, sterilization and disinfection controls and procedures
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In depth knowledge of dental structures, conditions and lesions, causes and stages of diseases
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Surgical preparation and assistance
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Microbiology, immunology, bacteriology, parasitology, zoonoses, and virology
What is a veterinary technician appointment?
A valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is the basis for interaction among veterinarians, their clients, and their patients and is critical to the health of animals, as well as mandatory under the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO). This can take the form of an in-clinic assessment, or may be established, if appropriate, via a telemedicine consult. Only a licensed veterinarian can diagnose and prescribe treatments and medications under the current regulatory guidelines. You will often see RVTs in the appointment with our veterinarians, taking histories, assisting with examinations and going over treatment plans and estimates. RVTs also discharge surgery patients going over medications and post-op instructions. RVTs may also perform duties without the direct supervision of veterinarians. Examples include nail trims, taking blood samples, bandage changes, PBMT laser treatments and administering vaccines, medications and many other treatments and diagnostic procedures, after a veterinarian's assessment or recommendation has been made. Technicians review medical histories and document treatments as part of the communication flow between veterinarians and team members. Veterinary technician appointments often do not directly involve a veterinarian but a veterinarian appointment may be recommended if the technician detects a concern during the appointment that is beyond their authorization.
We are fortunate to have caring and talented veterinary technicians as part of our CVS team and we hope you get to know them as an important part of your pet's health care.