10/23/2026
This week we are celebrating Certified Veterinary Technician Week! At WVS we have two CVT's on our staff. Here is a little more info about the profession and the work our certified tech's do for our clinic.
"A Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) is a highly trained veterinary professional who works under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian to provide medical care and technical support for animals," Dr. Emma explained. "CVTs play a vital role in patient care and help veterinary practices deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality medicine."
To become a CVT, individuals typically complete a two-year accredited veterinary technology program, earn an associate degree in veterinary technology, and pass a national credentialing examination. Many states also require additional licensing, certification, or registration before a technician can practice.
"In a large animal practice, CVTs assist with handling and restraining animals, collecting samples, administering medications and treatments, monitoring anesthesia, performing laboratory procedures, and preparing equipment. Their knowledge, technical skills, and ability to anticipate the veterinarian's needs help improve patient care, increase efficiency, and ensure that farm and equine patients receive the best possible treatment," Emma said. "We are lucky to have two valuable CVTs at our practice!"
Kari Slager works in our milk lab, does health papers, and assists vets with submitting labwork. She also spends a lot of time out in the field with various doctors.
"Kari is a cerified vet tech that works mainly in the milk lab, but to say that's all she does would be an understatement. Kari helps process thousands of samples through the lab. She receives, processes and sends out diagnostic samples and processes health papers for livestock and fairs as well as coggins for horses. Along with that she also goes out on the farm to help with large cattle sales and she assists me with puppy and kennel inspections every other week," Dr. Kelsey said. "She works closely with all of the veterinarians at the clinic. We greatly appreciate all of her hard work, the long hours she puts in and her ability to understand what the veterinarian wants and her drive to make it happen! She is a key part of our team!"
"Angela has a diverse skill set and spends time both in the clinic and on-farm. She works in the blood lab, sterilizes our surgery equipment, and helps with our cat neuter days, " Dr. Emma said.
On-farm Angela does all of the semen handling for Dr. Emma's laparoscopic AI, reads semen slides for breeding soundness exams, and assists with equine work (x-rays, dentals, etc.!).
We are so thankful for our wonderful CVTs!!!
