Vet techs, are you able to live on your own financially comfortable?
Asked by wintersunshine
I know that vet techs don't get paid a lot, but I'm really interested in becoming one. So are you able to live comfortably? And how much do you get paid? I've read around the internet that they get paid around $12-18 an hour.

Best Answer:
$12 - $18 sounds about right. If you are worried, would you consider going into veterinary nursing? They make more. Also, did you know the Army has an MOS that works with animals? This a "day in the life of a vet tech". I thought it was good. http://vetmedicine.about.com/library/weekly/aa062200.htm

For most areas, $12-18/hr is probably realistic, but not all clinics pay that much. In many areas, vet techs still aren't recognized for their skills and education, and subsequently, aren't paid very well. You may want to look into your state's veterinary technology association or college programs that you're considering for the vet tech program (make sure any program you consider is AVMA accredited - that's the only way to become a boarded vet tech in most states). They should have stats on averages for your state and maybe even your specific area. They'll also be good resources for any other questions you have. As for me personally, I've been at the same clinic in mid-Michigan for almost six years and make $16/hr. I'm single with pets, rent a very small home for a fairly cheap rate, and live comfortably enough (able to vacation, have a little bit saved, etc.). I notice that fellow techs who own homes, have kids, or have more debt than I do seem to struggle a bit more. The biggest problem I've noticed is, in most private practice settings, there is a definite cap on salary potential for techs, whereas other jobs seem to have more growth potential. If you're interested in working for larger referral centers, research, or academia, there are chances to make more. I found teching to be a suitable career for my early-20's, but as I look to the future, I know I won't be doing it at 30. Instead, I just completed my bachelor's in business and am looking for other opportunities with more potential. The upside of being a tech, however, is they're in demand in many areas. I don't ever worry about being able to find a job as a tech. Even though I'm moving on, I love having it as a fall-back position. So, to summarize my answer: you can survive teching and probably even be comfortable in some circumstances, but you have to decide what you want out of life. If $30,000/yr is good, this is a great option, but if you need six figures to be happy, that's extremely unlikely in this field. Good luck!
Answered by KLGLVT