This book is published by AAHA Press and remains the “go-to” book for anyone who is starting their career as a veterinary technician or looking to change within the profession the way that they make their living. Written as a collaborative effort between a Certified Veterinary Technician and a licensed veterinarian, both authors have a passion for veterinary medicine as well as the art of reinventing oneself within their career. Although this is a second go-around for these authors, the book is listed as a “revised first edition” (not second edition) with the initial first edition being published in 2009. This was a bit confusing for me, I must admit. In comparison to the initial first edition, some helpful additions include tips for utilizing social media for networking, unique career positions that a veterinary technician may wish to consider as well as more updated information on careers that surround end-of-life care (hospice) that has become a career path for the veterinary technician.
Broken down into sixteen chapters, this book allows the reader to initially examine how best to prepare to enter the job market or explore options for change. There are approximately twelve chapters which focus on individual job markets which frequently look to technicians to fill their needs, both full and part-time. For instance, for those who may need to temporarily transition to a home-office type of employment in order to remain at home (new mothers, caretakers of older parents) consider Chapter 10 which addresses computer related jobs or Chapter 11 if interested in writing, editing and publishing within the veterinary science genre. Or perhaps, you are a person who prefers constant change and challenge? Chapter 6 allows for an exploration into becoming a “temp” by filling in at practices who need temporary coverage.
Of interest to those who cannot get enough of veterinary technician interaction, don’t neglect the idea of international, volunteer or service work. Stuffed with websites and other contact information, readers are sure to find something to incite their interest and even travel outside of their comfort zone.
This book is one which will be useful to technicians exploring their options within their chosen field. It is also a great book to have on hand if you instruct veterinary technicians or are in the business of recruitment for one of the Nation’s fine veterinary technician educational programs. Trust me; you will never again be at a loss for an answer when asked: “What can I do with this degree.” I found myself considering my own options as I “age gracefully” within the wonderful career field.
Publisher: AAHA Press, 2013
ISBN13: 978-1-58326-196-5