FAQS

What is an AHT?

An Animal Health Technologist (AHT) is a person who has successfully completed a minimum two-year accredited program of study in Animal Health Technology. The animal health technologist who works in a veterinary practice assists the veterinarian in many ways, including patient nursing care, diagnostic and treatment services.  As well some AHT/VTs are highly trained in special skills such as rehabilitative therapy, dentistry, anesthesia, emergency or other recognized veterinary technologist specialty (VTS) fields.

In Alberta there are four AHT programs:

• Olds College
• NAIT
• Lakeland College
• Grande Prairie Regional College

These are the only four AHT programs recognized and accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) in Alberta. Entrance requirements to the programs vary slightly from college to college. A grade 12 diploma with Math, English, Chemistry and Biology is required. Related experience such as volunteer work at a vet clinic or work on a farm is also necessary.

What is the VTNE?

The Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) is owned and administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). It is written by Animal Health Technologists and Veterinary Technicians/Technologists throughout North America. This comprehensive exam is used to evaluate all new graduates. The VTNE helps ensure all AHTs have a certain level of competency before working in a veterinary practice.

The VTNE is a computer-based examination and is administered at three testing windows during the year. The exam is constantly updated to remain current with the ever evolving veterinary industry.To apply for permission to write the VTNE, contact the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association.

For more information on the AAVSB and/or the VTNE, click here.

AHT vs. RVT…What’s The Difference?

In Alberta, a diploma in Animal Health Technology is awarded to students who successfully complete the 2 year program, from an accredited institution. These graduates are Animal Health Technologists (AHT). In order to earn the title of Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) an AHT must, complete the VTNE, register with the ABVMA and ensure all registration requirements have been met. The RVT designation distinguishes Registered Professionals who are legally allowed to practice medicine,as stated in the Veterinary Profession Act (VPA), from students who have not completed one or more of the requirements.