How to Become a Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technician in 2025
What Does a Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technician Do?
A zoo or wildlife veterinary technician is a trained animal healthcare professional who provides medical care to a wide variety of animal species, from primates and birds to reptiles and large mammals. They are an invaluable part of a veterinary team that works to keep animals healthy in zoos, aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation centers, research facilities, and other similar places.
The daily tasks of a zoo or wildlife vet tech are very diverse. They assist the veterinarian with examinations, surgeries, and treatments. This includes preparing animals for procedures, monitoring anesthesia, administering medications, and providing post-operative care. Diagnostic work is another key duty. Techs will collect samples (blood, urine, feces), run laboratory tests, and take radiographs (X-rays). They also maintain medical records, ensuring that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
A significant part of the job involves animal husbandry. Techs monitor animal behavior and environments, reporting any unusual signs or changes to the veterinarian. They assist with maintaining clean and safe enclosures, preparing diets, and providing enrichment activities to promote the animals' physical and psychological well-being. Often, working with wildlife means working in field conditions, requiring the tech to participate in animal capture and restraint, sometimes using specialized equipment.
This career appeals to many people due to the opportunity to work with animals from around the globe and contribute to their conservation. The work is often challenging and rewarding, with the chance to learn about different species and their unique needs. The skills and knowledge gained are applicable to other veterinary fields, offering career flexibility.
Here are some key definitions to help provide added clarity:
Veterinary Technician: A person who has graduated from a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). You can learn more about the AVMA on their website: https://www.avma.org/
Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Medicine: A specialized branch of veterinary medicine focused on providing care for non-domestic animals housed in zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, and rehabilitation centers, or those in their natural habitats.
Animal Husbandry: The care and management of animals, encompassing feeding, housing, health care, and breeding practices.
Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technician Educational & Certification Requirements
Becoming a veterinary technician specializing in zoo and wildlife medicine requires a solid educational foundation and often, specialized training. The path often starts much like becoming a vet tech for companion animals, but then includes added experiences centered around the care of exotic animals.
First, you will need to complete an accredited veterinary technology program. These programs typically lead to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Veterinary Technology. Accreditation is important because it ensures the program meets certain standards and prepares you for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). You can find accredited programs through the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) website: https://www.avma.org/
After graduating from an accredited program, you will need to pass the VTNE. Passing this exam is a critical step to becoming a credentialed veterinary technician, whether that’s as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT), or Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT), depending on the state where you want to work. Be certain to check your state's requirements for licensure or certification.
While a standard veterinary technology education provides a base, gaining practical experience with zoo or wildlife animals is where specialization begins. This often involves internships, externships, or volunteer work at zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, sanctuaries, or research facilities that handle wild animals. These experiences are valuable for acquiring hands-on skills related to animal handling, restraint techniques for various species, medication administration, and assisting with medical procedures specific to wild animals.
There are specialty certifications you can consider after gaining experience. The Academy of Veterinary Zoological Medicine Technicians (AVZMT) offers a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) certification in zoological medicine. This certification demonstrates a high level of skill and knowledge in this specialized field, but it requires significant experience, a case log, and passing an examination.
Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technician
Becoming a zoo or wildlife veterinary technician is a rewarding career path for individuals passionate about animal health and conservation. It requires dedication, specialized training, and a genuine love for working with diverse species. Here’s a breakdown of the steps you can take to pursue this unique veterinary profession.
Step 1: Earn a Veterinary Technician Degree
The foundation for any veterinary technician career, including zoo and wildlife, begins with formal education. Enroll in an accredited veterinary technology program. These programs typically offer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The program curriculum will cover topics like animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, surgical assisting, and clinical laboratory procedures. Look for programs accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) for the highest quality education: https://www.avma.org/
Step 2: Pass the VTNE
After graduation, you'll need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). This standardized exam is used across North America to assess competency in veterinary technology. Successful completion of the VTNE is required for licensure or registration in most states and provinces. Study materials and practice tests are available to help you prepare.
Step 3: Gain Experience with Animals
While in school, and following graduation, seek out opportunities to gain hands-on experience with a variety of animals. This could include volunteering at animal shelters, working at a general practice veterinary clinic, or assisting at wildlife rehabilitation centers. Any experience working with animals will strengthen your resume and give you a better practical base.
Step 4: Specialize in Zoo/Wildlife Medicine
To set yourself apart, consider gaining experience or additional training specific to zoo and wildlife medicine. This could involve volunteering or interning at a zoo, aquarium, wildlife sanctuary, or rehabilitation facility. Some veterinary technology programs may offer specialized courses or externships focused on exotic animal care. Look for institutions with experienced professionals who can provide mentorship.
Step 5: Obtain Relevant Certifications
While certification isn't always mandatory, it can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise. Explore certification options related to wildlife rehabilitation, anesthesia, or other specialized areas relevant to zoo and wildlife medicine. Research available certifications and determine which ones align with your career goals.
Step 6: Network and Build Connections
Networking is important in any career path. Attend veterinary conferences, join professional organizations like the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), and connect with zoo and wildlife professionals online. Building relationships can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and valuable mentorship.
Step 7: Search for Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technician Positions
Job opportunities in this specialized field can be competitive. Search job boards, contact zoos and wildlife facilities directly, and utilize your network to find available positions. Be prepared to relocate if necessary, as opportunities may be limited to specific geographic locations. Carefully tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills.
How To Network As a Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technician
Making connections is key to progressing as a zoo or wildlife veterinary technician. It’s about more than just handing out business cards; it's about building genuine relationships that can help you learn and advance your career. A great starting point is actively seeking out internships. Internships at zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and research facilities provide hands-on experience and opportunities to meet professionals in your field. Approach these experiences ready to learn and make a positive impression.
Participating in relevant professional organizations is also useful. Groups like the Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians (AZVT) offer conferences, workshops, and online forums where you can connect with other technicians and veterinarians working with exotic animals. Attending these events and actively participating in discussions helps you build a network of peers and mentors. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to people whose work you admire or who have experience in areas you're interested in.
Continuing education is another avenue for networking. Workshops, seminars, and certification programs related to zoo and wildlife medicine often attract leading experts and other passionate professionals. Taking courses not offers new skills but also builds your professional network. Look for opportunities to collaborate on projects or presentations, which can further strengthen your connections and build your reputation. Remember, professional development is very important. Learn about career paths on sites like the American Veterinary Medical Association's (AVMA) homepage.
Actionable Tips & Resources For Aspiring Zoo/Wildlife Veterinary Technicians In 2025
Becoming a zoo or wildlife veterinary technician is a rewarding career path. If you are hoping to follow this career, there are several steps to consider. It all starts with a solid educational foundation. You'll need to become a credentialed veterinary technician, meaning you should aim to complete an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited veterinary technology program. These programs give you the baseline skills in animal care, laboratory procedures, surgical assistance, and pharmacology.
Once you've completed your degree and passed the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination), think about gaining some hands-on experience. While any experience in veterinary medicine is valuable, experience working with exotic animals, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or even large animal practices can really set you apart. Contact local zoos, sanctuaries, and wildlife rescue organizations to see if they offer internships or volunteer opportunities. Hands-on experience is truly invaluable and will give you a clearer idea of what the day-to-day work is like.
To further improve your qualifications, explore opportunities for advanced training and certifications. The Academy of Veterinary Zoological Medicine Technicians (AVZMT) provides a pathway to specialization in zoological medicine. This involves additional coursework, clinical experience, and a rigorous examination, but it demonstrates a high level of expertise. Check out the AVZMT homepage for more details. Another option is to look for continuing education courses or workshops focused on topics like wildlife immobilization, anesthesia of exotic species, or zoo animal nutrition.