Shannon Nowak

Veterinary medicine is often described as more than just a job—it’s a profession that draws people who are deeply committed to animals and their well-being. But just as important as the care we provide to patients is the environment we create for one another. Our field is comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, identities, […]

As summer winds down and families settle into new school schedules, many Veterinary practices notice a shift in the rhythm of their days. Appointments that seemed easy to fit in during the summer months suddenly become more difficult for clients to schedule. At the same time, clinic teams may feel the strain of juggling heavier […]

A few months ago, I wrote an article on defending the profession, discussing if Veterinary professionals should address misinformation they find online. A few recent encounters led me to think about what happens when we, as Veterinary professionals, witness situations outside of the clinic—out in the world—where pets are being put at risk? Should we […]

Earlier this month, I came across an article in my sister’s copy of The Journal of Hospital Medicine (she works in human healthcare as a Hospitalist Physician Assistant) ominously titled “Preparing for the Unthinkable: The Resurgence of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases.” It described concerns for rising rates of previously eradicated or uncommon diseases such as measles, polio, […]

If you have worked in Veterinary medicine, in any role, chances are you’ve found yourself in this familiar (and frustrating) position: a friend, neighbor, or family member asks for your expert opinion about something pet-related—whether it’s what species or breed of pet would suit their family or lifestyle, basic pet care and husbandry, when to […]

Veterinary medicine is filled with passionate, committed professionals—technicians, assistants, veterinarians, client service representatives, educators, researchers, and more—who often go above and beyond for their patients, clients, colleagues, or cause. If you’ve been in Veterinary medicine for any length of time, chances are you’ve encountered (or are) the person who always steps up. You hear it […]

As a Veterinary professional, I frequently encounter pet owners, outside of the Veterinary clinic,  who view routine preventative care—such as vaccinations, parasite prevention, and wellness exams—as optional. (I feel this is especially true with cats and exotic pets.)  This mindset is not only concerning but can also lead to serious health consequences for pets, not […]

Last month, I focused on strategies for Veterinary technicians to navigate Veterinary conferences, in terms of selecting a conference to attend and managing the associated costs. So, it only makes sense to dive a little deeper into the conference experience as a whole.  Read on for some tips to make the most of your conference […]

I’ve heard a lot of discussion lately from credentialed Veterinary technicians, both in person and in online forums, about how to make ends mee, or about sharing info on successful “side hustles” to bring in supplemental income.  While I love that this is a close-knit community willing to share thoughts, ideas, and experiences, it’s disheartening […]

As we enter January, and Veterinary conferences begin kicking off for 2025, I thought it would be helpful to provide some information on how Veterinary technicians can survive—and thrive—during conferences. Choosing a Conference First, let’s start with the most obvious: choosing a conference! Choice can be up to the individual and depends on many factors. […]

On the heels of National Veterinary Technician Week, I would like to address a common concern among our profession: celebrating the entire Veterinary staff as part of National Veterinary Technician Week. National Veterinary Technician Week, which was established by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) in 1993 and is observed annually in […]

In today’s Veterinary climate, the role of the credentialed Veterinary technician (CVT, LVT, LVMT, RVT) has never been more vital. While education, clinical skills, and technical expertise are fundamental, the ability to effectively network can significantly enhance your career and contribute to the broader Veterinary community. Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts; it’s about building […]

In the Veterinary field, credentialed Veterinary technicians (CVT, LVT, LVMT, and RVT) play an essential role in ensuring the health and well-being of animals. Despite their critical contributions, many Veterinary organizations and governing bodies continue to make decisions that impact credentialed technicians without including them in the conversation. This lack of representation can lead to […]

In the demanding world of Veterinary medicine, too often the focus falls on the challenges, failures, and heart-wrenching moments of loss. However, shifting this focus to celebrate even the smallest daily successes can profoundly impact Veterinary staff, fostering a more positive, resilient, and motivated team. Here’s how this simple yet powerful change in perspective can […]

In the world of pet healthcare, the role of the Veterinary technician is often misunderstood and underappreciated. These highly skilled, educated professionals are crucial components of the Veterinary healthcare team. One of a technician’s many fundamental responsibilities in a small animal facility is to educate pet owners on the importance of vaccinations, emphasizing preventative health […]

According to data from The NAVTA 2022 Demographic Survey, the average lifespan of a Veterinary technician/nurse has increased in the last several years (up from 5-7 years as reported in 2016), though it’s difficult to obtain an accurate range, as most of the responses from the 2022 survey were likely biased, as the surveys were […]

In the unique ecosystem of Veterinary medicine, professionals from various roles collaborate to ensure the well-being of animals, from companion and exotic animals sharing our homes to livestock to those animals in laboratory, research, and zoological facilities. Each role—including but not limited to veterinarians, Veterinary specialists, credentialed technicians, technician specialists, Veterinary assistants, client service representatives, […]