Glacial Ridge Veterinary Clinic employees were at the state capitol to support veterinary technician licensure in Minnesota. Currently, Minnesota is one of eight states that does not require a vet tech license. 

“Licensing would elevate the veterinary technician field by increasing wages and keeping employees in the field longer. It seems odd that a person who cuts hair needs a license, but a veterinary technician performing anesthesia on a pet does not, so that’s what we are fighting for,” stated Kelly Schuler, Certified Veterinary Technician and Practice Manager for GRVC. 

The average length of time a vet tech stays in the work field is four years. Statistics show they leave because of wages, lack of recognition and not being used to their full potential. 

“According to the current law, a veterinarian needs to be within ear shot of any vet techs giving vaccines. This bill would help give the technicians more responsibility to facilitate veterinarians and free them up to do other things,” she added. 

Statewide there is a shortage of veterinarians which is expected to climb over the next five years into the tens of thousands. Allowing trained technicians the ability to do some of the tasks they currently do, but without close supervision, would give the veterinarians time to spend with more animals. 

The GRVC staff met with Torrey Westrom and Paul Anderson to advocate for the bill.