The number of dogs as pets, which also drives employment growth, is expected to increase more slowly during the projection period than in the previous decade. However, the rapidly growing number of cats as pets is expected to boost the demand for feline medicine, offsetting any reduced demand for veterinary care for dogs. The availability of advanced veterinary services, such as preventive dental care and surgical procedures may provide opportunities for workers specializing in those areas.
Skilled Technicians Needed
Biomedical facilities, diagnostic laboratories, public health, wildlife facilities, humane societies, animal control facilities, food animal agriculture, drug or food manufacturing companies, and food safety inspection facilities will provide more jobs for veterinary technicians. Furthermore, demand for these workers will stem from the desire to replace veterinary assistants with more highly skilled technicians in animal clinics and hospitals, shelters, kennels, and humane societies.