As we celebrate National Veterinary Technician Week from October 13-19, it’s time to give special recognition to the heart and soul of veterinary care: the veterinary technicians at Cloquet Animal Hospital. While your pets are getting the best care possible, it’s often the vet techs who are working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. From assisting in surgeries to comforting anxious pets, their tireless efforts make them true unsung heroes.
Ever wonder what a vet tech does on a typical day? Let’s take a moment to not only celebrate these amazing professionals but also get to know the faces behind the magic.
The Vital Role of Our Vet Techs
At Cloquet Animal Hospital, vet techs do so much more than you might imagine. They are the multitaskers who keep everything moving seamlessly during busy clinic hours. You may see them assisting with your pet’s exam or administering vaccines, but their responsibilities go far beyond that.
They play a critical role in surgeries by preparing animals for procedures, assisting our veterinarian during operations, and closely monitoring vital signs throughout. But that’s just the beginning. Our vet techs also:
- Conduct blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal exams to check for parasites or infections.
- Collect and analyze tissue samples to assist in diagnosing conditions.
- Perform X-rays to help identify fractures, blockages, or other medical issues.
- Administer medications, provide wound care, and apply bandages.
- Perform dental cleanings and scaling to keep pets’ teeth healthy.
These tasks require not just technical skill but also empathy, patience, and an ability to stay calm in stressful situations. Our vet techs are often the ones offering comfort to anxious pets and owners alike, reassuring them through every step of the treatment process.
Meet the Amazing Vet Techs at Cloquet Animal Hospital
We are proud to have a talented and compassionate team of certified veterinary technicians at Cloquet Animal Hospital, each bringing their own unique skills and personality to the clinic.
- Ashley, Certified Veterinary Technician
She has a playful side that helps keep the clinic atmosphere light. When things get stressful, she’s known to play pranks on her coworkers, which always brings a smile to the team. In her free time, Ashley enjoys hiking with her dog, though she has a special love for white tigers and claims her favorite breed is, surprisingly, cats!
- Bekah, Certified Veterinary Technician
She brings a knack for venipuncture, especially with long-haired dogs. Bekah dreams of inventing scrubs with built-in knee pads to make those long clinic days a bit easier. When she’s not at work, she loves hiking with her Brittany Spaniels and Beagles, enjoying the fresh Minnesota air.
- Sadie, Certified Veterinary Technician
She is an energetic and caring presence at the clinic. Sadie’s favorite animal is the penguin, and when she’s not at the clinic, she can usually be found working out or enjoying a cold brew with almond milk and dark chocolate. Her favorite dog breeds are Pitbulls and black labs, both of which reflect her strong, warm personality.
- Abigail, Certified Veterinary Technician
She is always ready to provide comfort and care to every pet that comes through our doors. In her downtime, she enjoys walking her Golden Retriever or playing field hockey. Abigail’s calm and steady demeanor makes her a cherished member of the team.
- Sam, Veterinary Technician
She is an animal lover through and through. While she has a special fondness for cows, her favorite dog breed is the loyal Border Collie. Sam’s favorite season is fall, and when she’s not caring for pets at the clinic, she enjoys watching her favorite animal-themed movie, Water for Elephants. Sam’s dedication to animals, whether at work or at home, is clear in everything she does.
Honoring the Unsung Heroes of Animal Care
Our beloved vet techs do so much more than assist our veterinarians. They are truly the backbone of the clinic. Whether they’re drawing blood or placing IVs, our vet techs ensure every procedure is done safely and efficiently. They handle routine tasks like administering vaccines and conducting dental cleanings, but they’re also crucial in more complex treatments.
For example, during surgeries, they monitor anesthesia and the pet’s vital signs to ensure everything is running smoothly. After surgery, they provide post-op care and monitor recovery, making sure pets are comfortable and healing properly. If you’ve ever had to leave your pet at the hospital for a procedure, rest assured that vet techs are there every step of the way, caring for your pet as if it were their own.
Our vet techs also take on the important role of educating pet owners. They explain treatment plans, demonstrate how to administer medications at home, and offer advice on everything from nutrition to wound care. Their ability to connect with clients and provide clear, compassionate explanations is what makes them such an essential part of the pet care experience.
A Day in the Life of a Cloquet Vet Tech
A typical day for a vet tech at Cloquet Animal Hospital is fast-paced and filled with variety. From the moment they walk through the door, they are preparing the clinic for the day ahead. This can include sterilizing surgical instruments, prepping exam rooms, and checking in with the hospitalized pets who stayed overnight.
As appointments start, vet techs jump into action. They assist veterinarians with exams, restrain animals for procedures, and collect samples for testing. They might perform dental cleanings in one room while prepping for surgery in another. Vet techs need to be quick on their feet, balancing multiple responsibilities while still providing compassionate care to every patient.
Throughout the day, vet techs are also responsible for keeping detailed medical records, updating treatment plans, and ensuring that the clinic remains a clean and safe environment. When it’s time for surgery, they meticulously prepare the operating room and assist the veterinarian during the procedure, monitoring the pet’s vitals and anesthesia levels to ensure a successful outcome.
Our Heartfelt Thank You to Our Veterinary Technicians
As we celebrate National Veterinary Technician Week, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the vet techs at Cloquet Animal Hospital. Your hard work, dedication, and compassion make all the difference in the lives of our patients and their families. Whether you’re comforting a pet post-surgery, conducting a routine dental cleaning, or explaining treatment plans to concerned pet owners, you are invaluable.
To our readers, the next time you bring your pet in, take a moment to thank the vet techs who go above and beyond to keep your pet healthy and happy. These unsung heroes deserve all the appreciation we can give!
For all your pet’s needs, whether it’s a routine check-up or a specific treatment, schedule an appointment today or shop for your pet’s care essentials at our online pharmacy.
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