Veterinary Technician Schools in Idaho

The present moment is a good time to start a career as a veterinary technician in Idaho. Demand for these professionals keeps increasing, and the salary remains as competitive as ever.

Individuals who would like to enter into the discipline on the best possible foundation will be glad to know that there are several steps they can take to achieve this objective. One of the most important is preparation.

In the upcoming sections, we explore the vital considerations that all aspiring veterinary technicians in Idaho must consider. We explore the educational pathways, accreditation requirements, licensing and certification possibilities, and projected average earnings, among other key aspects.

How to Become a Veterinary Technician in Idaho

The steps below are required to start a career as a veterinary technician in Idaho.

Education

Prospective veterinary technicians in Idaho must attend a training program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association—Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities. At this point, students are expected to learn skills in clinical pathology, pharmacology, small animal diseases, and diagnostic imaging, among other areas.

Most training programs contain around 80 credits, and graduates will leave with an Associate of Applied Science degree. For convenience, candidates can also consider online programs.

Passing the VTNE

The Veterinary Technician National Examination is a mandatory examination for veterinary technicians nationwide. Candidates must be well-prepared for this exam, as they can only start their careers with a passing score.

The VTNE is held annually at an interval of once every 3 months.

Employment

The majority of veterinary technicians in Idaho work in a private practice. However, candidates can also secure employment in other environments, including research, exotic animal facilities, military service, and rescue shelters.

Before they do so, however, they must consider the certification procedure below.

Consider exploring other careers with similar paths:

• Become a vet assistant in Idaho

Top Veterinary Technician Schools in Idaho

The following programs are among the best for future vet techs in Idaho.

Explore neighboring states for education and training:

• Veterinary Technician Schools in Oregon

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Idaho is one of the states in the country where veterinary technicians are expected to be certified before they can practice professionally. The organization responsible for certifying veterinary technicians in Idaho is the Idaho Board of Veterinary Medicine.

To become certified by the board, candidates must prove that they have graduated from an accredited program and passed the VTNE. After paying the application fee, the credentials they obtain will be valid for 2 years. They are then expected to renew their certification by completing 14 hours of continuing education.

As for the VTNE, this examination is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards and costs $340. It tests students in laboratory procedures, diagnostic imaging, pharmacy and pharmacology, and anesthesia.

Salary & Career Outlook

Idaho offers veterinary technicians an annual average salary of $34,700 in the median range, which is compatible with the national average. However, the state also allows candidates to earn even more, as those in the top 10% tend to take home figures as high as $45,952 or more.

Of course, when starting, candidates may not earn up to the median figure yet, and some may even take home around $26,204 – good enough to be among the bottom 10%. However, with experience and credentials, it is possible to move up swiftly.

Boise and Hayden are some places that candidates may consider working as veterinary technicians in Idaho, thanks to their relatively high annual average salary. Professionals in this field earn around $38,513 and $36,710 annually, respectively.

Veterinary technicians in Twin Falls are also worth mentioning, with an average annual salary of $35,064.