WORKING CONDITIONS

Most animal hospitals, clinics, animal shelters, and human societies have a reception area, an office, examining rooms, treatment and bathing area, a surgery room(s), a pharmacy, boarding area with cages to hold animals overnight, and a laboratory. Zoos, educational institutions, and research facilities also have a similar set-up. However, technicians in these fields do not typically work with the public and have no need for a reception area.

The animals can be noisy at times, and the work can be physically demanding. Handling large or unruly animals can be strenous and dangerous. Technicians must learn proper animal restraint to avoid getting bitten, scratched, or kicked. Technicians must deal with distressing sights and unpleasant odors. Some duties like euthanizing an ill, injured, aged, or unwanted animal can be emotionally stressful.

Technicians must take measures to avoid infection or disease. They must also take precautions when treating animals with germicides and insecticides, such as flea dip, to avoid harming themselves or the animals. They usually wear a lab coat or a uniform when working, as well as gloves, and a mask as needed.

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