Veterinary Technicians

Veterinary Technicians study animal health to assist Veterinarians in the care of all types of animals. 

The veterinary technician applies knowledge and clinical skills as part of the veterinary team to provide routine and emergency nursing care to animals. A Vet Tech is responsible for collecting samples, and performing diagnostic tests and x-rays, administering medications, facilitating well-check exams, prepping animals for, and assisting veterinarians in surgery, and comforting and educating pet owners, among other tasks.

Why Study Veterinary Technician

The health of an animal can have an impact on our health, especially if livestock and poultry become ill. In a country that has a large poultry and livestock industry, veterinary technicians are of great value, especially in rural communities. But pet health is also essential, and communities rely on Vet Techs to assist in the care of their pets.

This is a growing field where Veterinarians rely more and more on the assistance of Vet Techs in monitoring the health of our animals. It is a rewarding field that provides individuals with opportunities to save lives and livelihoods.

There is a vital need for the formal training of Veterinary Technicians to support Veterinarians within the agricultural sector and who care for the health of our pets.

Veterinary Technician at Galen

Galen University’s Veterinary Technician program, the only program of its kind in Belize, provides an Associate’s degree that prepares students to care for and provide preventative and maintenance services for animals. The program follows the North America Model of Veterinary Medical Education. The academic pathway is similar to that followed by AVMA accredited veterinary schools in the US and Canada.

Students will gain valuable knowledge in following general processes, and performing critical care procedures that including emergency care for sick or injured animals. Each of the professional courses includes practical clinical or field experiences. The program culminates with an internship.

This 24-month Veterinary Technician Associate Degree Program is offered online with face-to-face field, lab and research class schedules on campus, relevant sites and labs. It is designed to provide students with entry-level knowledge and abilities to obtain employment as veterinary technicians. The program provides students with the knowledge of the field in which they will work and provides them with the various practical field experiences of the Veterinary Technician.

Sample Courses from the Veterinary Technician Program

Courses that students will take within our program include:

  • Animal Behaviour & Restraint
  • Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology
  • Veterinary Nutrition
  • Food Safety
  • Veterinary Pharmacy
  • Poultry & Fish Health Management
  • Veterinary Nursing
  • Veterinary Surgical Assistance

Career Opportunities

There are numerous employment opportunities that veterinary technician graduates can pursue, such as:

  • BAHA
  • Agro & Vet businesses
  • Private Vet Clinics
  • Farms (Poultry, Livestock & Aquaculture)
  • Ministry of Agriculture
  • Department of Fisheries
  • Zoo
  • Animal & Wildlife Shelters

Testimonials

Related Programs

Faculty

Miguel DePaz, DVM.