The Heartbreaking Truth Behind the Low Licensed Veterinary Technician Salary in Texas - Advocating for Fair Pay for Animal Heroes

It's no secret that pets are a beloved addition to any family. They wag their tails or purr when you come home after a long day, they snuggle up to make you feel loved - and we, as human beings, recognize the emotional comfort they bring into our lives.

Now, let's talk about the people who keep our pets healthy and happy: licensed veterinary technicians, or LVTs.

They're educated professionals who play vital roles in animal care. They're the first line of defense in identifying and interpreting vet's orders. They educate clients on the proper way to care for their animals after surgery or various medical procedures, among others.

But wait a minute, you might want to ask: should the pay be that low for the work performed?

The issue here is significant. Despite having a rigorous job that requires significant educational investment, veterinary technicians can expect to have wages that fall below the poverty line in Texas. In 2018, LVTs earned median wages statewide of around $32,800 annually, and sometimes this is even below minimum wage in other states.

Isn't it amazing how far food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance can stretch that kind of pay check?

Well, it turns out advocating for payments doesn't make the self-evident justice rather possible. There has to be something more profound, and anyone with even an ounce of heart will realize paying veterinary staff a better salary is essential.

Think of everything LVTs bring to the workplace. Excess overtime, aggressive pets, crazy busy work schedules, highly stressful working conditions – all for around $62 per day - because you know, there are bills to be paid just like for anyone else.

The veterinary profession is enshrined by people passionate about making a difference in the lives of creatures great and small. Obviously enough, talented, skilled people are sure needed to achieve this somewhat miraculous bravura undertaking, and these miracles do not come cheap or effortless. These animal heroes exist simply to help; dog trials, CAT scans, surgery – name it- regularly go off without hitch or error because of the expertise they bring to the table. Their charge is significant; multiple, complex patient histories occur amid diverse client personalities that make each day challenging and interesting, so it seems only natural that pay increments should be added. Why isn't this being recognized?

We need you to speak out today and campaign for your fellow animal supporters by requesting an increase in salary payment. Signing a petition or reaching out to politicians and animal welfare groups is simply what it takes to establish fair salaries animal heroes perhaps deserve.

Please change this for animal heroes nationwide. Not only are they looking out for everyone's beloved pets' best interests that increase harmony within families across Texas, but they deserve adequate pay for providing proper care for their charges too.