Veterinary Technology Clinical Experience
Prospective students of the OCTC Veterinary Technology Program are required to complete a minimum of 16 observation hours under the supervision of a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT/RVT) or DVM. You may gain additional points for your program admission packet if you have more than 40 field experience hours.
The purpose of the Clinical Experience Form is for you to demonstrate exposure to the field of Veterinary Technology. Field experience is defined as employment, volunteering, shadowing, or observing at a veterinary practice where a Licensed Veterinary Technician is employed.
You should complete this form with your Clinical Supervisor.
Guidelines
- The 16 clinical observation hours may be obtained in a veterinary clinic or at an animal shelter/humane society. Observation hours must be completed within two years prior to application to the Veterinary Technology Program.
- The applicant must be supervised by either a licensed veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian.
- The OCTC Veterinary Technology Program Clinical Experience Form must be submitted online. Other forms of verification of observed hours will not be accepted. Incomplete forms will not be processed.
- Any exceptions to these criteria will be left to the discretion of the OCTC Veterinary Technology Program Admissions Committee.
- Applicants should remain in an observatory role unless otherwise specified by practice management.
Applicants should observe a variety of clinical tasks. Acceptable tasks to be observed include:
- Minor surgical procedure such as laceration repair
- Major surgical procedures such as ovariohysterectomy
- Office procedures such as financial transactions
- Client interaction such as history taking and discharge instructions
- Kennel or stall clean up
- Administration of medication such as pilling or injections
- Euthanasia, if possible instrument care and sterilization
- Laboratory work such as blood analysis, microscopy
- Animal restraint techniques
Any questions regarding the Clinical Experience Hours should be directed to:
Laura Boarman, DVM
Program Coordinator
OCTC Veterinary Technology
(270) 686-4585
Laura.Boarman@kctcs.edu
Clinical Experience
You must also complete several questions to be asked of the Veterinary Technician you are working with in order to gain further appreciation for the career path you are choosing to pursue. The Licensed Veterinary Technician must sign off on the answer sheet. The questions are below: