Becoming a Veterinary Technician in Wyoming

A career in veterinary technology is rewarding for anyone who loves animals. Although Wyoming has a sparse population, the need for vet techs and other animal workers, like vet assistants and animal caretakers, is consistently growing. Wyoming vet techs do not have to be certified, but certification does make a candidate more competitive for any open positions. [Leer en español]

Veterinary Technician Salaries

In Wyoming, the average annual income for a vet tech is $29,450. The highest earners in the state earn annual incomes up to $45,850. For vet assistants and animal caretakers, which are jobs that typically require less training and experience, the average salary is $29,620 and the income for top earners is $37,710.

Veterinary Technician Certification

The state of Wyoming does not require that working veterinary technicians be certified, but getting that endorsement is required by many employers and sets candidates apart from those without certification. Those vet techs seeking certification can get it through the Wyoming Veterinary Technician Association (WyVTA). To qualify, a vet tech must have graduated from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited veterinary technology program, have passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), be a paying member of the WyVTA, and earn ten credits every two years in continuing education. Certified vet techs must renew every two years and continue to pay dues to the WyVTA to maintain certification.

Veterinary Technician National Exam

The Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) is offered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards and is required for certification in Wyoming. The exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions divided into two sections–medical and surgical nursing, dental nursing, anesthesia, diagnostic imaging, laboratory procedures, pharmacology, and client relations. Test takers have three hours to complete the exam and must score at least 70% on both sections for a passing grade. Exam fees are $300 for members of the American Association of Veterinary State Boards and $400 for non-members.

The exam is offered three times each year–January, May, and October–and test takers can register up to six weeks before the exam date. Those who fail the exam can register to take it again after a waiting period of 45 days.

In conclusion, becoming a vet tech in Wyoming is an excellent career choice for anyone passionate about animals and willing to invest time and effort into getting certified by the WyVTA.

AVMA-Accredited Veterinary Technician Education

There is just one AVMA-accredited program in Wyoming for veterinary technology. The program is at Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington. Anyone hoping to be a certified vet tech in Wyoming can earn a degree from any AVMA-certified program across the country, including distance and online programs. Schools like Penn Foster College and Purdue University offer accredited online programs.

Veterinary Technician Employers in Wyoming

Just 230 vet techs are working in Wyoming currently, along with 150 vet assistants and animal caretakers. They are employed in veterinary offices, animal emergency centers, ranches, laboratories, and rescue centers:

• Paintrock Animal Clinic, Casper
• Spring Creek Animal Hospital, Jackson
• Rocky Mountain Equine Hospital, Cody
• Snowy Range Veterinary Clinic, Laramie
• Red Desert Humane Society, Rock Springs

Professional Organizations

The WyVTA is the primary professional organization for vet techs in Wyoming and the institution responsible for providing certification. In addition to certification, the WyVTA offers members continuing education, job listings, scholarships, and networking opportunities. For nationwide resources, Wyoming vet techs may want to join the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.

Veterinary Technician Schools in Wyoming

• Southeastern Wyoming nonmetropolitan area
• Northwestern Wyoming nonmetropolitan area

Northwestern Wyoming nonmetropolitan area Area

Northwest College

231 W 6th St, Powell, Wyoming 82435

Veterinary Assistant – Associate Program

Northwest College’s Associate program in Veterinary Assistant is based at their campus in the town of Powell. This public college has roughly 1,652 students in total, with most students on 2-year programs. The college is institutionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission. Fees for tuition for in-state students are in the order of $2,789 and for students from outside the state likely to be about $6,773 yearly. Learning materials may cost about $1,000, although this will vary with the program.

Southeastern Wyoming nonmetropolitan area Area

Eastern Wyoming College

3200 West C St, Torrington, Wyoming 82240-1699

Veterinary Technology – Associate Program, Veterinary Technology – Certificate Program

Eastern Wyoming College offers multiple training options, including an Associate program and a Certificate program. Classes are taken at their campus in the town of Torrington, WY. The college has roughly 1,704 students in total, with the majority of students on 2-year programs. The college is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission. Fees for tuition for in-state students are likely to be in the order of $2,568 and for students from outside the state likely to be about $6,552 yearly, while books and supplies may cost about $1,300, although this varies from program to program.

* Tuition fees and accreditation status are correct at the time of writing, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (http://nces.ed.gov/). Confirm with the college before applying.

Other Options

Wyoming residents have further educational options in the neighboring states of Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, and Idaho.