New job as vet assistant

[Ayemee]

Hey guys,

I have recently left an emergency clinic and am now a vet assistant at a routine care clinic. It’s definitely different because I feel as if the LVT does most of the blood draws, vaccines, radiographs etc. I’m concerned I will lose my experience because I did a lot of X-rays, vaccines and blood draws at the emergency clinic.

Does anyone else work at a routine clinic where an LVT is always present? Do they do most of the animal care? I realize they’ve had specific training but it would be nice to not lose my experience. After I’ve been there longer, would it be okay to ask to do certain things? I feel weird asking an LVT to hold an animal for me and I am afraid I’ll overstep.

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[schnauzerlover94]

I work with 2 LVTs and everyone at my clinic sort of functions as equals. Their certification means they have expertise and are there to step in when the assistants need someone more experienced. Our LVTs do the surgical monitoring predominantly but that is really the main difference, We all do the same/very similar tasks.

 

[wannabeDVM123]

Did they know when they hired you that you had that experience? Also did the LVT have a hand in hiring you? They may just not know that you know how to do that stuff. If not, I'd just casually mention you have experience and ask if you could do poking as well.

 

[vethopeful_2]

This was one of the hardest parts of vet experience for me. I was hired as an assistant/tech (never really specified? But wrote assistant on VMCAS) but was not allowed to do anyyyyything because the RVT's hated that I wasn't certified and they ran the show. During my working interview, the head tech told me that she was mad that the doctor was hiring an "uneducated person". Needless to say.... I should've run away in the beginning. I would nip this in the bud ASAP by talking to the person directly in charge of you (hospital manager, lead tech, dr, whatever is most appropriate) and discussing your experience. Ask them what they are comfortable with you doing and learning how to do. I lost out on a lot of valuable experience because I didn't realize this early on and got stuck in my role. Stick up for yourself but be aware of regulations and what everyone feels comfortable with.

 

[ajs513]

This was one of the hardest parts of vet experience for me. I was hired as an assistant/tech (never really specified? But wrote assistant on VMCAS) but was not allowed to do anyyyyything because the RVT's hated that I wasn't certified and they ran the show. During my working interview, the head tech told me that she was mad that the doctor was hiring an "uneducated person". Needless to say.... I should've run away in the beginning. I would nip this in the bud ASAP by talking to the person directly in charge of you (hospital manager, lead tech, dr, whatever is most appropriate) and discussing your experience. Ask them what they are comfortable with you doing and learning how to do. I lost out on a lot of valuable experience because I didn't realize this early on and got stuck in my role. Stick up for yourself but be aware of regulations and what everyone feels comfortable with.

Absolutely agree. I’m confident that one of the biggest reasons I got in to vet school (because of my interview) was that i demonstrated a huge amount of medical knowledge to my interviewers. I do absolutely everything the doctor doesn’t do at my hospital. If a technician can do it, I do it. My interviewers were extremely impressed with this and it seemed like it was the deciding factor. By missing out on actual experience, you’re essentially a body in a vet practice racking up hours with nothing to show for it. Some schools don’t ask you medical questions, but the ones that do will realize that you didn’t actually do anything at that job. Bring your knowledge to the attention of your supervisor, and let him/her know how eager you are to actually get hands on experience. You’re not just some kid who likes animals and wants to work at a vet hospital. You’re a future veterinarian, and they’re doing you a disservice by not giving you tons of hands on experience.

 

[Ayemee]

Thanks for the replies guys! How can I casually bring it up? Today was only my first day - should I wait a little longer first?

If I bring a patient back, is it okay to ask the LVT if she wouldn’t mind holding so I can draw blood? Or if we have a patient come in and I see she’s done the past few blood draws, simply ask if I could have a turn at it? It feels so awkward and I feel like I will step on the toes of the LVT, even though she’s really nice, so I’m sure she’d understand.

I just don’t want to start off on the wrong foot. The LVTs at my last clinic didn’t like if I asked them to hold, but there were so many other people to hold...so I just didn’t ask them. Haha. I think I will take your guys advice and talk with the head doctor and see what she is comfortable with me doing.

 

[finnickthedog]

Absolutely agree. I’m confident that one of the biggest reasons I got in to vet school (because of my interview) was that i demonstrated a huge amount of medical knowledge to my interviewers. I do absolutely everything the doctor doesn’t do at my hospital. If a technician can do it, I do it. My interviewers were extremely impressed with this and it seemed like it was the deciding factor. By missing out on actual experience, you’re essentially a body in a vet practice racking up hours with nothing to show for it. Some schools don’t ask you medical questions, but the ones that do will realize that you didn’t actually do anything at that job. Bring your knowledge to the attention of your supervisor, and let him/her know how eager you are to actually get hands on experience. You’re not just some kid who likes animals and wants to work at a vet hospital. You’re a future veterinarian, and they’re doing you a disservice by not giving you tons of hands on experience.

What? Hands on tech experience is nice and all, but it's definitely not a must have for vet school and it's not inherently more valuable than not having experience doing those things. Plenty of people go into vet school never having done any of those sorts of skills and it's not like we're expected to have done them. While the OP and others might prefer a job where they get to do these sorts of things, not being in such a position is not "racking up hours with nothing to show for it". Although certainly, if you view a position in that way you're likely to not get much out of it.

 

[ajs513]

What? Hands on tech experience is nice and all, but it's definitely not a must have for vet school and it's not inherently more valuable than not having experience doing those things. Plenty of people go into vet school never having done any of those sorts of skills and it's not like we're expected to have done them. While the OP and others might prefer a job where they get to do these sorts of things, not being in such a position is not "racking up hours with nothing to show for it". Although certainly, if you view a position in that way you're likely to not get much out of it.

What’s the point of spending time at a vet practice but not actually doing anything? It’s not enjoyable, you don’t learn anything, and the time you spend there could have been spent at a place that values you. Going from doing everything to doing nothing really shouldn’t be an option unless you’re totally switching gears, like going from small animal to exotics. Someone with so much experience shouldn’t have to settle for doing less than an assistant.

 

[ajs513]

Thanks for the replies guys! How can I casually bring it up? Today was only my first day - should I wait a little longer first?

If I bring a patient back, is it okay to ask the LVT if she wouldn’t mind holding so I can draw blood? Or if we have a patient come in and I see she’s done the past few blood draws, simply ask if I could have a turn at it? It feels so awkward and I feel like I will step on the toes of the LVT, even though she’s really nice, so I’m sure she’d understand.

I just don’t want to start off on the wrong foot. The LVTs at my last clinic didn’t like if I asked them to hold, but there were so many other people to hold...so I just didn’t ask them. Haha. I think I will take your guys advice and talk with the head doctor and see what she is comfortable with me doing.

There’s no problem with asking if you can try something. It shows initiative, shows you want to contribute to the practice, and you demonstrate that you’re valuable to the practice. Any tech who takes offense to it needs an ego check.

 

[wannabeDVM123]

I mean, I would honestly just ask at the beginning of the day. "Hey I was wondering if you would mind if I did some blood draws/vaccines, etc? I have experience at an emergency clinic before this and am also pre-vet so really want to hone my clinical skills." It's casual and explains why you're qualified. If she's nice, she shouldn't balk at it.

Also keep in mind that some places stick to who does what more strictly because they may be charging more or for insurance purposes.

 

[Ayemee]

I mean, I would honestly just ask at the beginning of the day. "Hey I was wondering if you would mind if I did some blood draws/vaccines, etc? I have experience at an emergency clinic before this and am also pre-vet so really want to hone my clinical skills." It's casual and explains why you're qualified. If she's nice, she shouldn't balk at it.

Also keep in mind that some places stick to who does what more strictly because they may be charging more or for insurance purposes.

That’s a great idea, I think that’s what I’m going to do. Thanks! Now I’m excited for my next day, so I can hopefully resolve this. I do want to speak with the doctor too though because it’s mainly a one doctor practice because I’m not sure what she allows/doesn’t allow at this point.

Thanks!!

 

[vethopeful_2]

What? Hands on tech experience is nice and all, but it's definitely not a must have for vet school and it's not inherently more valuable than not having experience doing those things. Plenty of people go into vet school never having done any of those sorts of skills and it's not like we're expected to have done them. While the OP and others might prefer a job where they get to do these sorts of things, not being in such a position is not "racking up hours with nothing to show for it". Although certainly, if you view a position in that way you're likely to not get much out of it.

I honestly can see both sides of the spectrum. I'm thankful that I had lots of vet experience to put on my app and I did learn while I was there because I basically forced myself on every learning experience there was to be had. But now that I've met other pre-vet students at interviews and such, I do wish that I had been a little more particular about the kind of experience I spent my time acquiring. I spent 2 years at a hospital but was not allowed to do anything hands on, and was surrounded by people who didn't think I deserved to be there (and actively voiced that). If I could redo my experience, I would probably have shadowed a doctor for those two years because I honestly probably would have learned more. Or maybe worked at a shelter on the side....just somewhere more lax that would have allowed me to practice hands on skills.

 

[SkiOtter]

What’s the point of spending time at a vet practice but not actually doing anything? It’s not enjoyable, you don’t learn anything, and the time you spend there could have been spent at a place that values you. Going from doing everything to doing nothing really shouldn’t be an option unless you’re totally switching gears, like going from small animal to exotics. Someone with so much experience shouldn’t have to settle for doing less than an assistant.

Uh
I learned a hell of a lot more when shadowing than working as an assistant.

I didn’t have to go clean the room after the dr left or fill meds. I could stand there while the doctor was figuring things out and ask questions and he’d explain things to me. Didn’t have to sit at the front desk and check people in and out. Could watch surgeries which the vet would narrate what he was doing most of the time. Could go look at rads and have him explain things to me. While I was working I didn’t have as much ability to do that because I had other responsibilities. I MUCH preferred shadowing.
Just because you think you don’t learn anything while shadowing, doesn’t mean that’s the case for everybody. Shadowing is what you make of it.

 

[ajs513]

Uh
I learned a hell of a lot more when shadowing than working as an assistant.

I didn’t have to go clean the room after the dr left or fill meds. I could stand there while the doctor was figuring things out and ask questions and he’d explain things to me. Didn’t have to sit at the front desk and check people in and out. Could watch surgeries which the vet would narrate what he was doing most of the time. Could go look at rads and have him explain things to me. While I was working I didn’t have as much ability to do that because I had other responsibilities. I MUCH preferred shadowing.
Just because you don’t think you learn anything while shadowing, doesn’t mean that’s the case for everybody. Shadowing is what you make of it.

But it doesn’t sound like OP is shadowing. It sounds like the pracitcd has her working as an assistant (barely). If it’s established that you’re shadowing, you’re usually unpaid and you follow the doctor around seeing what goes on. For OP, it sounds like she’s expected to do all of the grunt work without any of the learning experience.

 

[finnickthedog]

What’s the point of spending time at a vet practice but not actually doing anything? It’s not enjoyable, you don’t learn anything, and the time you spend there could have been spent at a place that values you. Going from doing everything to doing nothing really shouldn’t be an option unless you’re totally switching gears, like going from small animal to exotics. Someone with so much experience shouldn’t have to settle for doing less than an assistant.

My response was not specific to the OPs situation. The idea that you don't learn anything or that experience has lacks value if you're not doing tech skills is absurd and that's what I'm commenting on.

 

[ajs513]

My response was not specific to the OPs situation. The idea that you don't learn anything or that experience has lacks value if you're not doing tech skills is absurd and that's what I'm commenting on.

And I AM commenting on OP’s situation, since that’s the point of this thread. My comment isn’t all encompassing. Shadowing is a great experience. Being an assistant can be fine if that’s what you’d enjoy doing. But OP obviously doesn’t and believes she should be doing more than just holding animals for exams and cleaning up rooms. I’m telling OP that, for her situation, it’s very much worth trying to be able to do more. I’m not going to just say she should be okay with doing nothing since she’s clearly unhappy with it. But you’re coming at me like I’m spouting nonsense when in reality you’re taking my comment to be a catch all which it was never intended to be.

 

[finnickthedog]

And I AM commenting on OP’s situation, since that’s the point of this thread. My comment isn’t all encompassing. Shadowing is a great experience. Being an assistant can be fine if that’s what you’d enjoy doing. But OP obviously doesn’t and believes she should be doing more than just holding animals for exams and cleaning up rooms. I’m telling OP that, for her situation, it’s very much worth trying to be able to do more. I’m not going to just say she should be okay with doing nothing since she’s clearly unhappy with it. But you’re coming at me like I’m spouting nonsense when in reality you’re taking my comment to be a catch all which it was never intended to be.

Your response was not specific to the OPs situation seeing as it was a response to someone else's comment about their experience. Many of the statements came across as broad generalizations so I responded to them as such.

 

[vethopeful_2]

Uh
I learned a hell of a lot more when shadowing than working as an assistant.

I didn’t have to go clean the room after the dr left or fill meds. I could stand there while the doctor was figuring things out and ask questions and he’d explain things to me. Didn’t have to sit at the front desk and check people in and out. Could watch surgeries which the vet would narrate what he was doing most of the time. Could go look at rads and have him explain things to me. While I was working I didn’t have as much ability to do that because I had other responsibilities. I MUCH preferred shadowing.
Just because you think you don’t learn anything while shadowing, doesn’t mean that’s the case for everybody. Shadowing is what you make of it.

This. I didn't think it was true until I came out on the other side. Thought vet schools would "rather see me have paid experience" and took that route instead. Now here I am, headed to vet school in the fall, and begging to shadow doctors over the summer to make up for what I wasn't able to learn during my undergrad vet experiences.

 

[ajs513]

Your response was not specific to the OPs situation seeing as it was a response to someone else's comment about their experience. Many of the statements came across as broad generalizations so I responded to them as such.

No, I was corroborating what someone else said about OP’s situation. They said that OP should nip it in the bud because they had a similar experience, and I was saying that I agree and gave my perspective on their situation. Regardless, we’re all students giving our take on what people should do based off of what got us into vet school. What I did got me into vet school so to me it’s good advice. What you did got you into vet school so that’s what you think works. One method isn’t objectively more effective than another, and it’s a little confrontational on your part to act like what I’m saying is so outlandish.

 

[finnickthedog]

Doesn't matter anyways. I'm mostly just responding for the benefit of other applicants who will read this thread. I want them to know that an experience doesn't necessarily lack value just because it doesn't involve a lot of technical skills.

 

[hiellen]

I think this mostly has to do with it being your first day. Definitely ask what you’re allowed to do, but step back and watch for a bit. I can tell you as a RVT, I won’t let someone that comes in with 10 years of experience just jump on everything until they’re shown the way that the clinic does it. Because if someone comes in and something happens to go wrong, if it’s BAD, it falls on everyone with a license there, and I think that is frequently forgotten (or lawsuits etc etc). (For instance, just had a new hire with 13 yrs of exp not leave the appropriate amount of fluids for a severe pancreatitis dog. Everyone was in trouble for not double checking her even though she came in guns blazing bragging about how much she knew and we made an assumption.) Just keep in mind everyone does everything differently so you may need some time to adjust to how they do things.

So basically, don’t take it personally or jump to the conclusion that you won’t be allowed to do things. Yes there are licensed techs that want to do everything but I don’t think that’s the general case. All that I have met love teaching, and this is your opportunity to possibly learn new ways to do things!

As for other comments about not being able to learn while doing grunt work, that just depends on how much you’re able to step up. I think if you make the effort to want to learn things, generally you can find a way. Lots of people start as kennel techs and work their way up, so they had to start learning at some point 😉

 

[PrincessButterCup]

If you ask if you can draw blood, etc, and they tell you no, it doesn't necessarily constitute a lack of faith in your abilities or a personal slight. Don't be offended if you ask for more hands on work and they don't give it to you (because they only allow licensed techs to do those jobs, or whatever reason). I know it's frustrating to watch other people do things you feel comfortable doing, but if they have a policy in place that prevents you from doing these things you'll just need to live with it.

I don't think you need to be overly concerned about losing skills just because you're not getting to stick things with needless or take x-rays on your own. Yeah, practice helps when you're developing those skills, but once you have them it doesn't take much to get back into it (imo). I wouldn't stress about that.

 

[Minnerbelle]

If it's your first week, I would simmer down and keep your head down and just go with the flow. You don't want to become the cocky new prevet that is a thorn on the head tech's butt from day 2. If the answer is "no, assistants here only restrain and clean rooms" it'll be super awkward until you inevitably quit. And even if the answer is yes, the presumption that you get to call the shots on who does what from the minute you step in the building may put a wedge between you and the others. Small animal clinic politics can be difficult, so it may be worthwhile to just see how things go rather than put yourself in the position of collision.

Just observe and see for the next week to see how it goes. It should become obvious if none of the other assistants are allowed to do anything. Then you can ask, "hey is there a rule about assistants not being allowed to do x, y, and z?" Or it may be that the training structure is that you mainly observe for a day or two, and once they can trust that you're not an incompetent psycho, they'all let you do other stuff.

And don't pull the im a prevet so I want to do things card. Honestly in a clinic, your "need to learn" is much lower in importance compared to the needs of people training to be career technicians. Unless you suck, you're going to be gone in a short while, and it will not be as much use to invest in your tech skill learning as it is for those who actually want to be technicians.

 

[altadama]

Absolutely agree. I’m confident that one of the biggest reasons I got in to vet school (because of my interview) was that i demonstrated a huge amount of medical knowledge to my interviewers. I do absolutely everything the doctor doesn’t do at my hospital. If a technician can do it, I do it. My interviewers were extremely impressed with this and it seemed like it was the deciding factor. By missing out on actual experience, you’re essentially a body in a vet practice racking up hours with nothing to show for it. Some schools don’t ask you medical questions, but the ones that do will realize that you didn’t actually do anything at that job. Bring your knowledge to the attention of your supervisor, and let him/her know how eager you are to actually get hands on experience. You’re not just some kid who likes animals and wants to work at a vet hospital. You’re a future veterinarian, and they’re doing you a disservice by not giving you tons of hands on experience.

I'm mostly a lurker here and maybe I'm just grumpy today. But some of this just is very misleading advice. I just want to point out that no one truly knows what did or did not get them into vet school. Also, doing what a tech does doesn't really equate to huge amounts of medical knowledge...a tech and a vet are different jobs requiring different skill sets. No one who has not gone through vet school yet had "huge" amounts of medical knowledge. And I also think the most important part of shadowing is not hands on experience...its learning how to communicate with people, learning what a vet (not a tech) does, and making sure that job is a good fit for you. No one cares if you can draw blood if clients won't see you because you don't know how to talk to people effectively. You can learn just as much if not more by simply restraining animals or shadowing if you pay attention. And until you actually have a DVM you are not a "future vet"...you are in fact some kid who wants to work with animals. No one is guaranteed to get in to vet school or to graduate just because they are a pre-vet. And coming from someone who has worked as a tech, a receptionist, among many other jobs prior to vet school...no one here cares whether or not I know how to put a catheter in, draw blood, monitor anesthesia, etc. But learning how to get along with everyone in a work environment, deal with clients, handle having hostile coworkers, work under a bad boss, and communicate with the general public etc. has definitely served me well. They are not doing a disservice by asking you to do a job that needs to be done whether that is restraint, cleaning rooms, or whatever needs to get done, businesses generally hire someone to fill their needs, not the other way around. Humility and a good work ethic will get you further than asking to do things because you are a "future veterinarian"

 

[PppermintTwist]

im assuming there was an interview where you discussed you’re abilities and previous duties so they know you have skills that they thought would be useful.

I’m a licensed vet tech and went from emergency medicine to day practice. It took time to gain their trust. You have more independence at the eclinic. It’s an adjustment. Saying oh we did this at the eclinic why don’t we try that was met with a lot of resentment.

Instead of being upset about not being able to do things you have already done, focus on what new things you can learn.

What new experience can you gain from day practice? Just because you’re not poking doesn’t mean you aren’t learning. Vets do a lot of communication. Listen when vets explain things to owners. Anticipate the vets needs. Get information from owners that will be useful for diagnosing the problems if there is one. Learn more about dog and cat behavior. Learn to read the animals and owners and adjust your restraint and conversation accordingly. Learn how a day practice is different.

I’m sure at the eclinic there were comments made about how crappy the day practice IVC is. And many other comments... ( side note it’s a small world be careful what you say about people). Well now you are on the other side. A bigger IVC isn’t always better if you’re doing a dental. You cause less trauma with a smaller one and you’re not needing to give a huge bolus. If you’ve seen poor rDVM radiographs make sure you help get really good ones!

The techs will ask you to do more once they know you. You have to show them you have skills starting with being an awesome restrainer. Communicate with the techs. Say something if you need to adjust your hold don’t just lose control etc. Don’t be a know it all. Be eager but not pushy. Earn their trust.

Give it time!

Although it took me awhile to adjust I’m part of the family now. (Don’t say I don’t want to be part of the family I’m just here until I get into vet school. If you don’t care about them they won’t care about you.)

 

[ajs513]

I'm mostly a lurker here and maybe I'm just grumpy today. But some of this just is very misleading advice. I just want to point out that no one truly knows what did or did not get them into vet school. Also, doing what a tech does doesn't really equate to huge amounts of medical knowledge...a tech and a vet are different jobs requiring different skill sets. No one who has not gone through vet school yet had "huge" amounts of medical knowledge. And I also think the most important part of shadowing is not hands on experience...its learning how to communicate with people, learning what a vet (not a tech) does, and making sure that job is a good fit for you. No one cares if you can draw blood if clients won't see you because you don't know how to talk to people effectively. You can learn just as much if not more by simply restraining animals or shadowing if you pay attention. And until you actually have a DVM you are not a "future vet"...you are in fact some kid who wants to work with animals. No one is guaranteed to get in to vet school or to graduate just because they are a pre-vet. And coming from someone who has worked as a tech, a receptionist, among many other jobs prior to vet school...no one here cares whether or not I know how to put a catheter in, draw blood, monitor anesthesia, etc. But learning how to get along with everyone in a work environment, deal with clients, handle having hostile coworkers, work under a bad boss, and communicate with the general public etc. has definitely served me well. They are not doing a disservice by asking you to do a job that needs to be done whether that is restraint, cleaning rooms, or whatever needs to get done, businesses generally hire someone to fill their needs, not the other way around. Humility and a good work ethic will get you further than asking to do things because you are a "future veterinarian"

I’m not saying there isn’t a place for learning as a vet assistant. There is, of course. But as far as understanding what vets do, working as a vet assistant after working as a tech is sort of a step backwards. I started out as an assistant, worked my way up to tech, and then started working somewhere else as a tech when I moved back home. As far as the medical knowledge goes, that didn’t just come from working as a tech. My doctor works with me everyday to help me learn things I’ll need to know as a vet. He sits me down and goes over cases with me, his thought process, explains bloodwork and radiographs to me, and asks me for my input on what’s going on. Some days I’ll come in in the morning and he’ll hand me bloodwork from a patient I’ve seen and ask me for a differential. Obviously I don’t have four years of vet school experience and I’m not pretending to. But the vet I work with helps to prepare me for the experience he had at the same school and keeps my day exciting and interesting. OP is obviously not happy with the current arrangement. You learn good communication skills and how to be a person first in every roll in a hospital, so why shouldn’t she also do what makes her happy?

 

[altadama]

I’m not saying there isn’t a place for learning as a vet assistant. There is, of course. But as far as understanding what vets do, working as a vet assistant after working as a tech is sort of a step backwards. I started out as an assistant, worked my way up to tech, and then started working somewhere else as a tech when I moved back home. As far as the medical knowledge goes, that didn’t just come from working as a tech. My doctor works with me everyday to help me learn things I’ll need to know as a vet. He sits me down and goes over cases with me, his thought process, explains bloodwork and radiographs to me, and asks me for my input on what’s going on. Some days I’ll come in in the morning and he’ll hand me bloodwork from a patient I’ve seen and ask me for a differential. Obviously I don’t have four years of vet school experience and I’m not pretending to. But the vet I work with helps to prepare me for the experience he had at the same school and keeps my day exciting and interesting. OP is obviously not happy with the current arrangement. You learn good communication skills and how to be a person first in every roll in a hospital, so why shouldn’t she also do what makes her happy?

People don't know what they don't know and going into any job viewing it as a "step down" is always a recipe for disaster and borderline disrespectful to the people who are there...if that's how you feel then don't accept the job. The first few weeks to the first few months at a new job is about learning where you fit in with the team. People don't let you do things immediately and the people who don't want to do things because the say "that's not my job" or its a "step down" are the ones that never get to progress and generally don't last no matter how technically skilled they are. If the job isn't a good fit, then by all means find a new one. But no matter what job it is, there are always growing pains...it takes time to fit in and time for people to trust you and let you do things. And being at work isn't always about being happy, or excited, or interested. As an employee, you are there to fill their needs, not the other way around. Sometimes you need to just restrain, or just clean rooms, or just answer phones and being willing to do that without an ego will go further towards people letting you do the "exciting" things than trying to throw around you're experience or asking to draw blood do catheters etc. on day one. In my experience humility and work ethic go further than technical skills everyday of the week. So my advice to the OP would be to stick it out with an open mind, work hard, and if after a few months it doesn't feel like a good fit...then maybe think about applying elsewhere. And most of all don't view it like not gaining hands on experience right away is a "disservice" or that you are owed anything because that mindset doesn't make many friends and no matter what you're "job" is there are always lessons to learn.

 

[ajs513]

People don't know what they don't know and going into any job viewing it as a "step down" is always a recipe for disaster and borderline disrespectful to the people who are there...if that's how you feel then don't accept the job. The first few weeks to the first few months at a new job is about learning where you fit in with the team. People don't let you do things immediately and the people who don't want to do things because the say "that's not my job" or its a "step down" are the ones that never get to progress and generally don't last no matter how technically skilled they are. If the job isn't a good fit, then by all means find a new one. But no matter what job it is, there are always growing pains...it takes time to fit in and time for people to trust you and let you do things. And being at work isn't always about being happy, or excited, or interested. As an employee, you are there to fill their needs, not the other way around. Sometimes you need to just restrain, or just clean rooms, or just answer phones and being willing to do that without an ego will go further towards people letting you do the "exciting" things than trying to throw around you're experience or asking to draw blood do catheters etc. on day one. In my experience humility and work ethic go further than technical skills everyday of the week. So my advice to the OP would be to stick it out with an open mind, work hard, and if after a few months it doesn't feel like a good fit...then maybe think about applying elsewhere. And most of all don't view it like not gaining hands on experience right away is a "disservice" or that you are owed anything because that mindset doesn't make many friends and no matter what you're "job" is there are always lessons to learn.

You’re implying that the only ways to ask about doing more is to step on toes. If it’s a huge hospital with 10 doctors and 20 technicians and 5 receptionists and 3 office managers, then yea it’s more difficult to ask to do more since you’re there to do a job. If it’s a small hospital with a couple doctors and total staff of between 5 and 10 people, then it’s not a big deal to ask. You’re more of a family in a small hospital and people there enjoy and benefit from others enjoying their job. I’ve never worked in a large hospital so I can’t speak to what it’s like there, but I know for a fact that at small hospitals you aren’t just there to clock in, do your job, and clock out. I’m a technician and I still answer phones, clean rooms, check in clients, check them out, etc. At a smaller hospital, being an assistant is doing all of the things you don’t love doing and not really any of the things you DO love. If the option to enjoy your job is there, then why not do it? I was in a very large pre-vet program (every class size was larger than a vet school class) and I’ve talked about this with a lot of my peers before. Tons of people became jaded by their jobs because they had been there for over a year (sometimes 2) and they weren’t allowed to do anything. This was usually at large hospitals. I also know people who were able to do a lot at large hospitals. What I can say for sure is that everyone I spoke to who got more hands-on experience enjoyed their job and was more excited about becoming a vet than the people who were only allowed by their office to work as an assistant.

 

[hiellen]

I’m not saying there isn’t a place for learning as a vet assistant. There is, of course. But as far as understanding what vets do, working as a vet assistant after working as a tech is sort of a step backwards. I started out as an assistant, worked my way up to tech, and then started working somewhere else as a tech when I moved back home. As far as the medical knowledge goes, that didn’t just come from working as a tech. My doctor works with me everyday to help me learn things I’ll need to know as a vet. He sits me down and goes over cases with me, his thought process, explains bloodwork and radiographs to me, and asks me for my input on what’s going on. Some days I’ll come in in the morning and he’ll hand me bloodwork from a patient I’ve seen and ask me for a differential. Obviously I don’t have four years of vet school experience and I’m not pretending to. But the vet I work with helps to prepare me for the experience he had at the same school and keeps my day exciting and interesting. OP is obviously not happy with the current arrangement. You learn good communication skills and how to be a person first in every roll in a hospital, so why shouldn’t she also do what makes her happy?

Be careful with using the terms “assistant” and “tech”. In most states you have to go through an assistants or bachelors program to be a veterinary technician and pass the VTNE. (Side note here-saying you were a tech but didn’t learn until your doctor started pulling you aside, this is one of the problems with using the term “tech”. You’d be shocked what a tech has to know and isn’t able to apply in most positions. Differentials, anatomy, symptoms for many diseases, etc.) From my experiences there isn’t a name change after you start to learn more. That is completely up to the individual on how much they apply themselves and you have been lucky enough to do so. Remember this is OPs first day. Coming in and immediately getting upset that you’re not able to do what a LVT does on day one=recipe for disaster. You’ll step on toes and you can’t come back from that easily in this field. Emergency and general practice are very different and every general practice does everything differently. Each job you take in this field is the opportunity to learn new things. If you go into a job and they say no you can’t do x,y, and z (which should be addressed in the interview), then hey, here’s your opportunity to watch how people do things, be the best holder, etc. as others have said.

 

[altadama]

You’re implying that the only ways to ask about doing more is to step on toes. If it’s a huge hospital with 10 doctors and 20 technicians and 5 receptionists and 3 office managers, then yea it’s more difficult to ask to do more since you’re there to do a job. If it’s a small hospital with a couple doctors and total staff of between 5 and 10 people, then it’s not a big deal to ask. You’re more of a family in a small hospital and people there enjoy and benefit from others enjoying their job. I’ve never worked in a large hospital so I can’t speak to what it’s like there, but I know for a fact that at small hospitals you aren’t just there to clock in, do your job, and clock out. I’m a technician and I still answer phones, clean rooms, check in clients, check them out, etc. At a smaller hospital, being an assistant is doing all of the things you don’t love doing and not really any of the things you DO love. If the option to enjoy your job is there, then why not do it? I was in a very large pre-vet program (every class size was larger than a vet school class) and I’ve talked about this with a lot of my peers before. Tons of people became jaded by their jobs because they had been there for over a year (sometimes 2) and they weren’t allowed to do anything. This was usually at large hospitals. I also know people who were able to do a lot at large hospitals. What I can say for sure is that everyone I spoke to who got more hands-on experience enjoyed their job and was more excited about becoming a vet than the people who were only allowed by their office to work as an assistant.

I'm not going to say much more at risk of derailing the thread. I've worked in a very, very small hospital (among a bunch of other jobs at small places, research places, large farms, small farms etc.)...and if I had asked to do more right away before they knew me, it absolutely would have stepped on the toes of the techs that had been there for years. There are always social dynamics to consider and no matter where you are, there is a learning period. Once they get to know you, then sure...ask to do more if its appropriate. But even then, no one should act like its owed to them. And if someone is dead set against being an assistant, then don't accept a job as an assistant. And even at small hospitals, you are absolutely there to do a job and make sure the business functions. It may be a family feel...but if you are collecting a paycheck, it is 100% a job when push comes to shove and there will always be times where you need to do whatever it is that needs to be done whether or not its what you want to be doing. And honestly even more so at places with a tight knit, family feel...it takes time to integrate into the environment and be trusted to do more. Patience is important.

 

[ajs513]

Be careful with using the terms “assistant” and “tech”. In most states you have to go through an assistants or bachelors program to be a veterinary technician and pass the VTNE. (Side note here-saying you were a tech but didn’t learn until your doctor started pulling you aside, this is one of the problems with using the term “tech”. You’d be shocked what a tech has to know and isn’t able to apply in most positions. Differentials, anatomy, symptoms for many diseases, etc.) From my experiences there isn’t a name change after you start to learn more. That is completely up to the individual on how much they apply themselves and you have been lucky enough to do so. Remember this is OPs first day. Coming in and immediately getting upset that you’re not able to do what a LVT does on day one=recipe for disaster. You’ll step on toes and you can’t come back from that easily in this field. Emergency and general practice are very different and every general practice does everything differently. Each job you take in this field is the opportunity to learn new things. If you go into a job and they say no you can’t do x,y, and z (which should be addressed in the interview), then hey, here’s your opportunity to watch how people do things, be the best holder, etc. as others have said.

I understand what you mean. Where I work there’s no protection of the term “technician” or any sort of law saying that a licensed technician can do more than anyone else. So my experience will definitely be different than someone who lives in a state with strict laws. And I’m not saying I didn’t learn those things before. I’m saying I have a doctor who really pushes me to understand things and to expand my knowledge beyond what I need to know at my job.

Also, I never said that being an assistant isn’t an important job or that it’s wrong for everyone. But for someone who seems to work in a state that doesn’t have protection for the term “technician”, it’s okay to want to do more and to ask if you can. Obviously don’t be a jerk about it and flaunt your knowledge. My saying to explain your knowledge to them was more a guideline to say “let them know that you know how to do these things and would love the opportunity to do so.” We’re all adults here. I don’t think I have to spell out how to properly communicate in the workplace. But anyway, I’ve met dozens and dozens of people who worked in positions they weren’t happy with while in pre-vet and it’s very difficult to tell yourself that you should just be okay with it. Especially if the option exists to either do more or to go to a place that fits your needs.

 

[ajs513]

I'm not going to say much more at risk of derailing the thread. I've worked in a very, very small hospital (among a bunch of other jobs at small places, research places, large farms, small farms etc.)...and if I had asked to do more right away before they knew me, it absolutely would have stepped on the toes of the techs that had been there for years. There are always social dynamics to consider and no matter where you are, there is a learning period. Once they get to know you, then sure...ask to do more if its appropriate. But even then, no one should act like its owed to them. And if someone is dead set against being an assistant, then don't accept a job as an assistant. And even at small hospitals, you are absolutely there to do a job and make sure the business functions. It may be a family feel...but if you are collecting a paycheck, it is 100% a job when push comes to shove and there will always be times where you need to do whatever it is that needs to be done whether or not its what you want to be doing. And honestly even more so at places with a tight knit, family feel...it takes time to integrate into the environment and be trusted to do more. Patience is important.

I agree it’s important for them to get to know you first. But it’s also acceptable to ask what the timeline is. Do they expect for OP to always be an assistant, or when they feel comfortable will they let her do more? That’s something people do at every job in every field. They ask for the job description. Is there room to advance, etc. OP is literally saying she is unhappy having accepted a job as an assistant and wants advice. It’s difficult to take advice that just says “learn to enjoy it.”

 

[hiellen]

I understand what you mean. Where I work there’s no protection of the term “technician” or any sort of law saying that a licensed technician can do more than anyone else. So my experience will definitely be different than someone who lives in a state with strict laws. And I’m not saying I didn’t learn those things before. I’m saying I have a doctor who really pushes me to understand things and to expand my knowledge beyond what I need to know at my job.

Also, I never said that being an assistant isn’t an important job or that it’s wrong for everyone. But for someone who seems to work in a state that doesn’t have protection for the term “technician”, it’s okay to want to do more and to ask if you can. Obviously don’t be a jerk about it and flaunt your knowledge. My saying to explain your knowledge to them was more a guideline to say “let them know that you know how to do these things and would love the opportunity to do so.” We’re all adults here. I don’t think I have to spell out how to properly communicate in the workplace. But anyway, I’ve met dozens and dozens of people who worked in positions they weren’t happy with while in pre-vet and it’s very difficult to tell yourself that you should just be okay with it. Especially if the option exists to either do more or to go to a place that fits your needs.

If your state recognizes certified technicians then there are most likely limitations to the scope of what you can do. This is usually separated by direct and indirect supervision. For example, where I live in an emergency I can do CPR, apply splints, etc. But someone’s who is not certified, in my state called an assistant, they can’t do those things even in an emergency without direct supervision from a vet, LEGALLY. Obviously there is a serious lack of governing board to make sure these laws are upheld.

 

[ajs513]

If your state recognizes certified technicians then there are most likely limitations to the scope of what you can do. This is usually separated by direct and indirect supervision. For example, where I live in an emergency I can do CPR, apply splints, etc. But someone’s who is not certified, in my state called an assistant, they can’t do those things even in an emergency without direct supervision from a vet, LEGALLY. Obviously there is a serious lack of governing board to make sure these laws are upheld.

Where I live there aren’t any laws governing licensed or unlicensed technicians. That’s why a lot of people where I live aren’t licensed technicians, they’re just technicians by trade.

 

[that redhead]

If it's your first week, I would simmer down and keep your head down and just go with the flow. You don't want to become the cocky new prevet that is a thorn on the head tech's butt from day 2. If the answer is "no, assistants here only restrain and clean rooms" it'll be super awkward until you inevitably quit. And even if the answer is yes, the presumption that you get to call the shots on who does what from the minute you step in the building may put a wedge between you and the others. Small animal clinic politics can be difficult, so it may be worthwhile to just see how things go rather than put yourself in the position of collision.

Just observe and see for the next week to see how it goes. It should become obvious if none of the other assistants are allowed to do anything. Then you can ask, "hey is there a rule about assistants not being allowed to do x, y, and z?" Or it may be that the training structure is that you mainly observe for a day or two, and once they can trust that you're not an incompetent psycho, they'all let you do other stuff.

And don't pull the im a prevet so I want to do things card. Honestly in a clinic, your "need to learn" is much lower in importance compared to the needs of people training to be career technicians. Unless you suck, you're going to be gone in a short while, and it will not be as much use to invest in your tech skill learning as it is for those who actually want to be technicians.

All of this.

I would absolutely wait to say anything for at least a week and get the lay of the land - including the personalities of the LVTs who are doing the technical work. Did you interview with this place beforehand? One of your questions for them might have been how involved you will be in the technical side of things...

At any rate, tread lightly. Ask the LVT in your most pleasant, respectful tone, "Hey, would you mind if I had a chance at a blood draw today? I got to do a lot of it at ER and I'd love to be able to keep up on those skills!" Keep in mind that many LVTs have The Way that they do things and if you don't do it That Way, it's wrong. So be prepared for them to possibly pick apart your technique. Resist the urge to say, "Well at ER, we did it this way..." Just smile and nod and say, "OK, I'll need to practice doing it this way!"

 

[hiellen]

Where I live there aren’t any laws governing licensed or unlicensed technicians. That’s why a lot of people where I live aren’t licensed technicians, they’re just technicians by trade.

049 Pa. Code § 31.31. Scope of practice.

Just cause I was curious cause there aren’t many states where certified techs aren’t a thing that I knew of. The difference is the immediate, direct, and indirect supervision, and this is what varies state by state. So yes, you can do everything a certified tech can, but some of that means you have to have a doctor standing next to you while a CVT wouldn’t.

 

[ajs513]

049 Pa. Code § 31.31. Scope of practice.

Just cause I was curious cause there aren’t many states where certified techs aren’t a thing that I knew of. The difference is the immediate, direct, and indirect supervision, and this is what varies state by state. So yes, you can do everything a certified tech can, but some of that means you have to have a doctor standing next to you while a CVT wouldn’t.

Sorry, I should’ve specified. I live in PA but work in NJ. I know PA has fairly lax laws but there is a distinction between licensed and unlicensed techs.

Edit: I also realized I said where I live. I’m still newish to Philly so I’m used to living in NJ. Sorry for the miscommunication.

 

[vethopeful_2]

On the flip side of "simmering down".... I found myself trapped because I stayed simmered down for TOO long. There was another assistant who worked with us for a short time (wasn't "pre-vet", didn't have a bachelor's, etc) and essentially functioned as a technician because she was willing to be open about her skill set. I agree with needing to learn about and respect the way the practice runs, but if you want to do more, then what I was trying to say earlier is that that needs to be addressed pretty early on (even if they still want you to work up to greater skills, I think you should communicate your desired intentions pretty early on, that is. That way you'll know what to expect and not be disappointed).

If you act like a kennel assistant for 6 months, you shouldn't expect to walk in one day and suddenly start doing more things because they won't view you as anything but kennel help (not that that's a bad thing, but again, just saying if the employee *wants* to do more than that).
But I will add that I never never never addressed myself as being a "pre-vet" at my hospital. I think it's extremely cliché and a little presumptuous, honestly. I was so undercover about it that after working there for a year, when I went to ask one of the part time vets for a recommendation letter, she had no idea that I was even applying to vet school and replied with "for what?" Lol. So maybe I took it to the extreme. But just don't act like you're hot stuff because you plan on applying to vet school one day. It will really tick the technicians off.

 

[that redhead]

On the flip side of "simmering down".... I found myself trapped because I stayed simmered down for TOO long. There was another assistant who worked with us for a short time (wasn't "pre-vet", didn't have a bachelor's, etc) and essentially functioned as a technician because she was willing to be open about her skill set. I agree with needing to learn about and respect the way the practice runs, but if you want to do more, then what I was trying to say earlier is that that needs to be addressed pretty early on. At least from my experience.

If you act like a kennel assistant for 6 months, you shouldn't expect to walk in one day and suddenly start doing more things because they won't view you as anything but kennel help (not that that's a bad thing, but again, just saying if the employee *wants* to do more than that).
But I will add that I never never never addressed myself as being a "pre-vet" at my hospital. I think it's extremely cliché and a little presumptuous, honestly. I was so undercover about it that after working there for a year, when I went to ask one of the part time vets for a recommendation letter, she had no idea that I was even applying to vet school and replied with "for what?" Lol. So maybe I took it to the extreme. But just don't act like you're hot stuff because you plan on applying to vet school one day. It will really tick the technicians off.

I agree that lengthy waiting isn't necessary. But starting off week 1 by voicing your displeasure or just asking an LVT to restrain an animal for a blood draw randomly is going to get you a big LOLNO and then a shtstorm of gossip. I hate that it's that way, but it is.

As for sharing that you're pre-vet...honestly, I think it's fine to just share with the doctors. If I know someone is pre-vet I do try to help them learn about things, especially if they plan to ask me for a recommendation!

 

[vethopeful_2]

I agree that lengthy waiting isn't necessary. But starting off week 1 by voicing your displeasure or just asking an LVT to restrain an animal for a blood draw randomly is going to get you a big LOLNO and then a shtstorm of gossip. I hate that it's that way, but it is.

As for sharing that you're pre-vet...honestly, I think it's fine to just share with the doctors. If I know someone is pre-vet I do try to help them learn about things, especially if they plan to ask me for a recommendation!

Totally agree. I wouldn't ever voice "displeasure" about your current role! Just more of "I am willing and eager to learn XYZ skills if you felt comfortable with it" sort of thing. Also would never ask an RVT to restrain. That makes me cringe to think about, looking back haha.

And also agree about being open with the doctors. They understand your situation and probably would want to help. I was being extra bashful and weird about it, tbh. Lol

 

[Ayemee]

This is all great advice, thank you everyone. I do only work twice a week so I’m not there very often. Would it be appropriate to ask the veterinarian (who owns the clinic) on what sort of duties vet assistants are allowed to do, compared to an LVT? I could mention that the past two clinics I have worked at have been different, and that way I will know so I don’t overstep in any way. Or should I wait until I’ve settled in more first?

If I were to speak with the veterinarian, does this sound appropriate?
“I realize there is no LVT here today and I wanted to hear from you personally on what sort of task the vet assistants are allowed to perform, such as: monitoring anesthesia, blood draws and vaccines. I am comfortable in these areas but I wanted to make sure with you first so I don’t overstep. I also understand if you needed more time to observe me first to ensure I am capable before taking on such tasks.”

It looks like most of my shifts will be WITHOUT an LVT, just all vet assistants. I’m assuming then it’s okay to take on more responsibility - when the LVT isn’t there to do it? I asked the hospital manager prior to being hired if there’s any sort of training “check sheet” we need to do before taking on more arduous tasks, and she said no. So I am guessing it’s okay for vet assistants to do most of the work the LVT does.

 

[PrincessButterCup]

It looks like most of my shifts will be WITHOUT an LVT, just all vet assistants. I’m assuming then it’s okay to take on more responsibility - when the LVT isn’t there to do it? I asked the hospital manager prior to being hired if there’s any sort of training “check sheet” we need to do before taking on more arduous tasks, and she said no. So I am guessing it’s okay for vet assistants to do most of the work the LVT does.

Maybe this isn't what you meant (in bold), but don't assume you can do things without a LVT and just do them. Get permission first.

Also . . . Can't you simply wait and work through a few more shifts and get familiar with the set up? I feel like many of your questions will be answered once you've had more than a single shift. If you're only working with other assistants, you'll either see them drawing blood or you won't, and that will answer that question.

Slow down. I think you just need to take one day at a time before you go asking your boss for more responsibility. Just wait and see how things work there. 🙂

 

[Ayemee]

Maybe this isn't what you meant (in bold), but don't assume you can do things without a LVT and just do them. Get permission first.

Also . . . Can't you simply wait and work through a few more shifts and get familiar with the set up? I feel like many of your questions will be answered once you've had more than a single shift. If you're only working with other assistants, you'll either see them drawing blood or you won't, and that will answer that question.

Slow down. I think you just need to take one day at a time before you go asking your boss for more responsibility. Just wait and see how things work there. 🙂

You’re right. Lol. I need to stop being so hasty, it’s in my nature haha. So...I’ll wait an additional shift or two and see how the set up is. After I see how the clinic runs, I’ll start picking up additional tasks. Sounds good!

 

[DVMDream]

Absolutely agree. I’m confident that one of the biggest reasons I got in to vet school (because of my interview) was that i demonstrated a huge amount of medical knowledge to my interviewers. I do absolutely everything the doctor doesn’t do at my hospital. If a technician can do it, I do it. My interviewers were extremely impressed with this and it seemed like it was the deciding factor. By missing out on actual experience, you’re essentially a body in a vet practice racking up hours with nothing to show for it. Some schools don’t ask you medical questions, but the ones that do will realize that you didn’t actually do anything at that job. Bring your knowledge to the attention of your supervisor, and let him/her know how eager you are to actually get hands on experience. You’re not just some kid who likes animals and wants to work at a vet hospital. You’re a future veterinarian, and they’re doing you a disservice by not giving you tons of hands on experience.

This sounds very egotistical. Be ready for vet school to knock you off your pedestal at least 10-20 notches. You'd better learn quick how to not just "be a body in a vet practice" WITHOUT having hands on experience because that is going to be the majority of the next 4 years of your life. You will literally be a wall flower and you best be able to learn and apply what you learn while just absorbing information by watching/observing and NOT actually doing.

You also might want to check the ego at the door because you are about to walk into an environment where not everyone has technical experience, because being a clinical vet in a practice isn't the ONLY thing veterinarians do. @WhtsThFrequency can attest to this. If you start flaunting about your "amazing tech abilities" you aren't going to make friends very quickly. Heck even as someone who spent 7 years in clinics doing technical work prior to vet school I STILL LEARNED from the techs at the vet school techniques for things that I would have never thought of. Even as a graduated, licensed and in practice veterinarian, I have had techs save my ass and an ER tech guide me on how to do something that I have never done and neither has she but she has seen it done 32413242 times and I hadn't seen it done at all.

You never stop learning in this career and the people who teach you things might completely surprise you.

This also brings to the final point: Veterinarians don't do tech stuff. Sure setting a catheter is fun, drawing blood can be too, but these are what the TECHS do, this is what we do......

 

[ajs513]

This sounds very egotistical. Be ready for vet school to knock you off your pedestal at least 10-20 notches. You'd better learn quick how to not just "be a body in a vet practice" WITHOUT having hands on experience because that is going to be the majority of the next 4 years of your life. You will literally be a wall flower and you best be able to learn and apply what you learn while just absorbing information by watching/observing and NOT actually doing.

You also might want to check the ego at the door because you are about to walk into an environment where not everyone has technical experience, because being a clinical vet in a practice isn't the ONLY thing veterinarians do. @WhtsThFrequency can attest to this. If you start flaunting about your "amazing tech abilities" you aren't going to make friends very quickly. Heck even as someone who spent 7 years in clinics doing technical work prior to vet school I STILL LEARNED from the techs at the vet school techniques for things that I would have never thought of. Even as a graduated, licensed and in practice veterinarian, I have had techs save my ass and an ER tech guide me on how to do something that I have never done and neither has she but she has seen it done 32413242 times and I hadn't seen it done at all.

You never stop learning in this career and the people who teach you things might completely surprise you.

This also brings to the final point: Veterinarians don't do tech stuff. Sure setting a catheter is fun, drawing blood can be too, but these are what the TECHS do, this is what we do......

I definitely didn’t reread my original post. That came across differently than how I intended it. What I mean to say was that it’s a good thing to get hands-on experience. By taking a job that doesn’t give hands-on experience (if you’re unhappy with that) you’re doing yourself a disservice because you won’t like what you’re doing at work. Shadowing is one thing, because the point of that is to observe the vet and not really do anything else. If you’re going from one job where you’re doing a lot around the office to another where you’re not even shadowing, just cleaning, it’s easy to lose interest. My interviewers really liked that I had so much hands on experience and was familiar with what really goes on in a GP office. That’s not to say you can’t experince that other ways.
I also didn’t intend to sound like I was telling OP to barge into the office demanding hands-on experience. But it definitely came across that way.

 

[DVMDream]

I definitely didn’t reread my original post. That came across differently than how I intended it. What I mean to say was that it’s a good thing to get hands-on experience. By taking a job that doesn’t give hands-on experience (if you’re unhappy with that) you’re doing yourself a disservice because you won’t like what you’re doing at work. Shadowing is one thing, because the point of that is to observe the vet and not really do anything else. If you’re going from one job where you’re doing a lot around the office to another where you’re not even shadowing, just cleaning, it’s easy to lose interest. My interviewers really liked that I had so much hands on experience and was familiar with what really goes on in a GP office. That’s not to say you can’t experince that other ways.
I also didn’t intend to sound like I was telling OP to barge into the office demanding hands-on experience. But it definitely came across that way.

I get what you're saying. Some days I really wish I could go back to "just cleaning"...

Just also remember GP isn't the only thing you can do. There are some badass vets that don't even work in vet clinics and you're going time be classmates with some of them. 😉

Also, OP has had 1 shift, I'd expect to be cleaning and learning the clinic layout that first day. So I don't find her experience to be odd for day 1.

 

[WhtsThFrequency]

It takes all sorts, and every type of experience has its ups and downs. I had almost zero clinical experience getting into vet school. I worked at one clinic for one summer just to say I did, and due to state laws and corporate regulations I wasn't allowed to do anything except help restrain. I had never drawn blood, placed a catheter, done a cysto, performed a physical exam, or given an injection before vet school. I didn't even know that you could get blood from the jugular (the clinic I worked at was all cats and they always did legs with a butterfly) which was embarrassing for me in our first draw lab.

However, I did have thousands upon thousands of hours of research experience - this helped me develop "softer skills" like critical thinking abilities that there was no way I would have gotten performing tech duties. Same with my SO. So while I/he came in with little "hands-on" knowledge, we were able to think in a more diagnostic and systematic way than people who had only clinical experience. It goes both ways. I know (and have had) students who come in highly, highly technically skilled...but they couldn't problem solve their way out of a paper bag.

This isn't directed at @ajs513 at all - I understand that what she was getting was encouragement to maximize experience. If you WANT more hands-on stuff - great! Push for it. But it won't be your ticket to vet school. This is just a reminder for people who may not have (or want) a lot of tech experience because they are interested in other areas of vet med. It's vet school for a reason. You'll be taught how to go through the motions. I will take a student who comes in being able to analyze and think critically due to work experience that may not have been clinical, rather than one who comes in knowing how to place a perfect catheter any day of the week (not that the two things are mutually exclusive, but you get my drift).

Tl;dr - technical skills are not that important. They're a bonus, sure. They'll make you feel more confident. But not any sort of be-all and end-all.

Also a short PSA: As @DVMDream mentioned (again, not directed at anyone here, but just in general) don't be that person that flaunts all your "tech skillz". Just don't. Because nobody cares.

 

[WhtsThFrequency]

@Ayemee I think the most tactful way to go about this would be to say something to the effect of "Hey, I got to do a lot of neat hands-on things in a previous clinic and I'd really like to continue practicing these skills and getting even better at them with your help/guidance...would it be all right for me to practice more hands-on things with you guys?"

I think the staff would be more that happy with that and respond appropriately. Just don't accidentally come off as "Well, X clinic let me do X Y and Z, why can't I do it here?" (not that you were in your post - just as a caveat)

As others have said, it is the first week so they may not be quite sure how to integrate you yet, are are assessing how well you fit. I'd give it some time and, if things don't change, bring it up in a polite way.