What does an Animal Technician do?
Published 3 min read
An animal technician is a person who works with animals in a scientific or medical setting. They may be responsible for caring for the animals, feeding them, and cleaning their cages. They may also assist scientists with experiments on the animals.
Animal Technician job duties include:
- Caring for and feeding animals according to schedules and instructions
- Cleaning cages and other animal enclosures
- Exercising animals
- Administering medication and injections to animals
- Collecting samples from animals for testing
- Observing and monitoring the health of animals
- Maintaining records of animal care and behavior
- Assisting with research projects involving animals
- Training animals for specific tasks or behaviors
- Euthanizing animals when necessary
Animal Technician Job Requirements
Animal technicians typically need at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most employers provide on-the-job training. Animal technicians must be able to handle animals safely and with compassion and follow detailed instructions. They also must be able to work well independently and as part of a team. Some states have certification programs for animal technicians.
Animal Technician Skills
- Animal handling
- Anesthesia
- Aseptic technique
- Blood collection
- Cage changing
- Dentistry
- Euthanasia
- Injections
- Isoflurane
- Medical records
- Monitoring
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How to become an Animal Technician
Animal technicians work in a variety of settings, including zoos, aquariums, animal shelters, and veterinary clinics. They are responsible for the care and welfare of animals, and must have a strong knowledge of animal husbandry and behavior.
To become an animal technician, one must first earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Many animal technicians also have postsecondary education in animal science or a related field. After completing their education, animal technicians must complete on-the-job training to learn the specific skills needed for their job.
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