In Alberta, October marks Registered Veterinary Technologists (RVT) month, an annual observance that recognizes the vital role RVTs play in animal health care. This month serves not only as a celebration, but also as an opportunity to raise awareness about the skills and contributions of these essential members of the veterinary team.
To gain insight into this rewarding profession, we connected with Shannon Pollock, instructional assistant in Animal Health Programs at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology.
Here’s what she shared about her journey and advice for future RVTs.
A: I always knew I wanted to work with animals, but I never quite knew what that would look like. As a kid, I was the one bringing home stray animals, hoping to reunite them with their owners or maybe even keep a few for myself. Growing up with pets of all kinds, ranging from dogs and guinea pigs to iguanas and snakes, I developed a deep love for animals.
In my senior year of high school, I had Tuesday and Thursday afternoons off and chose to do work experience and get some high school credits at the same time. After my first day, I rushed home and told my parents my dream: to become an Animal Health Technologist (now known as Veterinary Technologist), a profession I had never heard of until that moment.
Determined, I took extra classes and applied to colleges, with Olds College at the top of my list. When I graduated in 1998, I vowed that one day I would be back to teach the next generation — and here I am.
A: There are so many pieces of advice to offer, but I will narrow it down to three:
- Maintain a work-life balance: It’s easy to become engulfed in this profession, but it can lead to burnout. Make time for yourself outside the clinic — pursue hobbies, take vacations and immerse yourself in something outside the industry altogether.
- Never stop learning: Your education is just the beginning. There are countless paths you can take with your diploma. People assume that once you have completed the veterinary technology program, you’ll go straight to working in a clinic. That’s not always the case; some work in zoos or research facilities, become pharmaceutical representatives, meat inspectors or earn specialty designations. The list goes on and on. Embrace the opportunities that come your way.
- Always have fun in what you are doing!
As we wrap up RVT month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all RVTs for their dedication, skills and compassion. They are truly essential to the health and happiness of our beloved pets, and their contributions deserve recognition and appreciation.
Thank you, RVTs!