Vet techs are the nurses of the veterinary profession, and they provide specialized care and can assist in a variety of diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures for both small and large animals. | Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt/The Horse

Who are these individuals? They’re veterinary technicians, of course.

“Teamwork is the basis of any horse-related activity; veterinary care is no exception,” said Luis Cadena, DVM, of Peterson & Smith Equine Hospital in Ocala, Florida. “Vet technician work is vital in every aspect of our job. Our safety and the safety of the horse are in their hands.”

In celebration of National Veterinary Technician Week, let’s take a closer look at our veterinarians’ right-hand men and