32104

Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians

TEER 2 — College diploma, apprenticeship (2+ yrs) or supervisory

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Health

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Definition

Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians provide technical support to veterinarians by caring for animals and assisting in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health disorders. They are employed in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, animal shelters, humane societies, zoos, animal research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies and government. Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians who are supervisors are included in this unit group.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Provide nursing care and rehabilitation therapy for animals
Handle, restrain and care for animals undergoing treatment and surgery
Produce radiographs, collect and analyse samples and perform other laboratory tests to assist in diagnosis of animal health problems
Assist veterinarian with animals before, during and following surgery by preparing surgical equipment, administering and monitoring anaesthetics and cleaning up after surgery
Prepare and administer medications and vaccines under direction of a veterinarian
Administer treatments as prescribed by a veterinarian
Provide wound and bandage care
Conduct specialized procedures such as animal identification and hoof trimming
Educate and advise clients on animal health care including nutrition and home care
Assist in laboratory research
Perform routine animal dental procedures and assist veterinarians with animal dentistry
May perform a variety of office management and clerical duties.

Example job titles

•animal health technician
•animal health technologist
•laboratory animal technician
•registered veterinary technician (RVT)
•veterinarian assistant
•veterinary technician
•veterinary technologist

Overview

Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians (NOC 32104) play an essential role in Canada's veterinary sector, classified under TEER 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system. Professionals in this field assist veterinarians by providing animal care, administering medications, preparing specimens, taking radiographs, and assisting in surgical procedures. This occupation is highly valued across Canada, with opportunities in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research laboratories, and wildlife centers.

To qualify for immigration under NOC 32104, candidates must meet specific educational and professional standards. This typically includes the completion of a two- to three-year college program in animal health or veterinary technology. Registration with a provincial veterinary technicians association may also be required depending on the province of employment. Eligible candidates can pursue Canadian permanent residency through federal pathways like Express Entry (under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class) or regional streams like Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a regulated Canadian immigration professional for official guidance.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.