Veterinary technician week proclaimed

Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud has proclaimed the week of October 9-15 as Veterinary Technician Week in Saskatchewan.

"Veterinary technicians play an important role in the success of Saskatchewan's livestock sector," Bjornerud said. "This proclamation recognizes their efforts and the contributions they make to the overall success of our agriculture industry."

Bjornerud made the provincial proclamation in conjunction with National Veterinary Technician Week, which is observed across Canada and the United States. In Saskatchewan, the week is sponsored by the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAVT), which was formed in 1984 to serve and support veterinary technicians in the province.

"This week is intended to increase awareness among the public regarding the many roles undertaken by a veterinary technologist," SAVT President-Elect Melanie Weiss said. "There are currently over 375 Registered Veterinary Technologists working in Saskatchewan at this time, and their contribution to the veterinary profession is crucial and multi-faceted."

SAVT works to improve animal health and welfare, and to promote the profession by emphasizing high standards of education and continuing education for veterinary technicians.

Veterinary technicians work for various organizations including: veterinary clinics; university clinics and laboratories; feedlots; hog and poultry barns; zoos; and pet food and pharmaceutical companies.

Veterinary technicians are responsible for performing diagnostic testing, radiographic imaging, anaesthesia, medical and surgical nursing and daily care of animals, among other duties.