Veterinary Technicians - Linking the Veterinary Healthcare Team
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), and the AAHA Helping Pets Fund are partnering in celebration of National Veterinary Technicians Week, October 11 through 17, 2009.
“Vet Tech Week provides an opportunity to honor the veterinary technician for the outstanding job they do. It also provides NAVTA with an opportunity to educate companion animal owners about the benefits of working with a veterinarian that employs credentialed veterinary technicians, which is equally important,” stated Andrea Ball, executive director of NAVTA.
This year's theme, “Linking the Veterinary Healthcare Team,” is a great description of the role veterinary technicians play in the veterinary profession. Technicians work closely with the veterinarians, veterinary assistants, practice managers, patients and their owners, providing an essential link with all involved in the care process.
Technicians have a distinguished history of contributing to the success of veterinary practices. Their continuing commitment to patient care and advancement of their knowledge and skills have been instrumental in advancing the level and standards of veterinary care. Veterinarians depend on technicians as integral parts of their patient care team, not only for their technical skills, but also for their passion and desire to help both animals and people. National Veterinary Technician Week helps recognize the numerous past, present and future contributions of these essential members of the veterinary profession.
— John Tait, DVM, MBA, CFP, AAHA President
During this special week, veterinary technicians can focus favorable attention on their profession through a variety of activities. These activities serve to:
- Educate the public about this vital member of the veterinary medical team.
- Reinforce the value and professionalism of veterinary technicians to veterinarians and the public.
- Provide an opportunity for veterinary technicians to salute one another for excellent performance in their work.
- Acknowledge veterinarians for hiring veterinary technicians.
Click here to download the NAVTA National Veterinary Technician Week media kit, with tips for celebration ideas, sample press release and more.
AAHA would like to thank all veterinary technicians for the important contributions they make to our profession, and celebrate your accomplishments and dedication to veterinary medicine and excellent pet healthcare!
NAVTA and AAHA student chapters are also encouraged to host a fundraising event during October 2009 to raise awareness of the important role veterinary technicians play in the lives of pets. The money raised at these events will benefit the AAHA Helping Pets Fund, which provides grants for emergency and non-elective treatment of pets in need. The chapter that raises the most money will receive a celebratory luncheon, courtesy of AAHA. We will also publicize all of your efforts in AAHA and NAVTA publications. We want everyone to know how vital you are to the industry! Documents and updates pertaining to this event will be available at www.aahahelpingpets.org. You can also contact the AAHA Helping Pets Fund directly at 866/443-5738 (email: info@aahahelpingpets.org).