In this Article
By: All Allied Health Staff
Texas offers several unique aspects that make it an appealing state for veterinary technicians to work. Since the state is so large and has such a range of topographic
- Diverse environments: Texas’s varied landscapes and climates mean that vet techs can work with a wide range of animal species, from domestic pets to livestock and wildlife. This diversity can be especially appealing to those interested in different aspects of veterinary care.
- High demand: With a large and growing population, there is a high demand for veterinary services in Texas. This demand may translate into numerous job opportunities for vet techs across the state.
- Educational programs: Texas is home to several reputable veterinary technology programs. Institutions such as Texas A&M University offer accredited programs that provide high-quality education and training for aspiring vet techs.
- Regulatory environment: Texas has clear regulations and licensing requirements for vet techs, which helps maintain high standards of care and professionalism in the field. The Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners oversees the licensing and practice of veterinary technicians in the state.
Quick stats about vet techs in Texas
There are 12,980 people employed as veterinary technicians and technologists in Texas, making it the number one employer of vet techs in the U.S. said the BLS. The median wage per hour is $18 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 9.1%, considerably higher than the job growth rate for all other career fields combined, said the BLS.
Texas has a wide range of veterinary practices, including small animal clinics, large animal practices and specialized veterinary hospitals. This diversity provides vet techs with various career paths and opportunities to specialize. These employers offer a range of experiences for veterinary technicians, from hands-on clinical work with pets and livestock to specialized care for exotic and zoo animals:
- Texas A&M University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, College Station TX:
- As part of the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, this teaching hospital provides comprehensive veterinary care and serves as a training ground for future veterinarians and vet techs. The hospital offers services in small animal, large animal and exotic animal care, providing a diverse work environment.
- Banfield Pet Hospital, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and multiple locations, TX:
- Banfield Pet Hospital operates numerous veterinary clinics throughout Texas, primarily focusing on small animal care. Known for its extensive network of clinics, Banfield provides preventive care, routine check-ups and minor surgeries, offering vet techs a consistent and supportive work environment.
- Elanco Animal Health, Fort Worth, TX:
- Elanco is a global leader in animal health, offering products and services for both livestock and companion animals. Their Fort Worth facility focuses on research, development and production of animal health products, providing vet techs opportunities in clinical research, labs and product support.
- Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX:
- The Dallas Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Texas and provides comprehensive veterinary care for a diverse range of species, including wildlife and exotic animals. Vet techs working at the zoo are involved in medical treatments, surgeries and health monitoring of the zoo’s animal residents, making it an exciting and varied workplace.
- Petco Animal Supplies, Inc., Houston, Dallas and multiple locations, TX:
- Petco operates veterinary clinics within some of its stores across Texas, offering a variety of pet care services. Vet techs at Petco’s clinics are involved in preventive care, wellness checks and basic medical procedures for small animals, providing a community-focused work environment.
Quick stats for Texas
Vet techs in Texas often enjoy competitive salaries, which can vary depending on the region, experience level and type of practice. The cost of living in many parts of Texas is also relatively affordable compared to other states, making it an attractive place to live and work. While the median national salary for vet technicians and technologists is just over $45,980 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, what certifications you have earned and your level of education.
Median veterinary technician salary in Texas
The median annual salary for vet techs in Texas is $37,250, which is lower than the national median. Texas does not rank in the top five highest paying states in the U.S. said the BLS. However, as noted above, Texas is the number one state in the U.S. for employment of vet techs. It’s important to note that salaries may be higher or lower based on location within the state, and considering Texas’ size, it’s surprising there are no areas that rank for highest pay according to the BLS’ top 10 list. The salary widget below provides the median national wage along with data for different metro areas in Texas, listed by highest paying first.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
10%$28,800
25%$33,900
50%$37,250Median
75%$46,000
90%$49,390
Median Hourly Wage$18
Job growth9.1%
Total Employment16,170
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| College Station-Bryan, TX | $42,210 | $28,700 | $61,000 |
| Midland, TX | $38,410 | $30,070 | $48,080 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX | $38,160 | $29,640 | $50,090 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX | $37,800 | $29,470 | $49,210 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $37,550 | $28,770 | $49,090 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $37,490 | $30,120 | $54,280 |
| Longview, TX | $36,670 | $27,080 | $45,110 |
| Amarillo, TX | $36,540 | $24,230 | $45,090 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $36,470 | $29,210 | $46,670 |
| El Paso, TX | $36,370 | $25,720 | $45,980 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for Texas vet techs
The salary range for vet techs in Texas typically spans from $28,800 to $49,390 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education, specialty and time in the position.
A word about vet technicians and technologists and why salaries may differ:
Veterinary technologists are similar to vet techs, but there’s a difference in terms of education needed to do the job. Veterinary technologists hold a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, which may provide more opportunities to advance in the field. Consequently, technologists may earn more than technicians, and technicians could choose to advance to technologist roles by completing two additional years of school and earning a bachelor’s degree.
Pay by metro area within Texas
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say for example you work in veterinary medicine and you live in a city that has several high profile vet stores such as Petco (Houston has 14 locations alone, Dallas has four), or a veterinary school such as College Station’s Texas A&M, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S.
Not surprisingly, Texas metro areas rank highly for largest employment of vet techs in the U.S., with the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area ranking number two in the country, and Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land taking the number four spot for highest employment.
Salary growth and job outlook
The market for veterinary technicians in Texas is growing, with the BLS projecting 9.1% growth over the next decade. The veterinary industry is expanding due to factors such as population growth, increased pet ownership and advancements in veterinary medicine. This growth may ensure a steady demand for skilled vet techs. Some of the reasons for the growth in Texas include the following:
- Population growth: Texas has one of the fastest-growing populations in the U.S. This population increase leads to a higher number of pet owners, thereby driving up demand for veterinary services.
- Economic strength: Texas has a robust and diverse economy, which supports growth in various sectors, including healthcare and veterinary services. The strong economy allows residents to spend more on pet care and veterinary services.
- Agricultural industry: Texas has a significant agricultural industry, being one of the leading states in livestock production, including cattle, poultry and horses. This large livestock sector requires extensive veterinary services, contributing to the demand for veterinary technicians specialized in large animal care.
- Pet ownership trends: There is a strong culture of pet ownership in Texas. As more households adopt pets, the need for veterinary care, including preventive, emergency and specialty services, continues to rise.
- Urbanization: The urbanization of cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio has led to an increase in pet-friendly amenities and services. Urban pet owners often seek high-quality veterinary care, which boosts the industry.
- Advancements in veterinary medicine: Technological and medical advancements in veterinary care are leading to better diagnostics, treatments and preventive care options. These advancements require skilled veterinary technicians, thereby increasing job opportunities in the field.
- Educational institutions: Texas is home to several reputable veterinary schools and training programs, such as those at Texas A&M University. These institutions not only produce a steady stream of qualified vet techs but also contribute to the industry’s growth through research and innovation.
- Agricultural events and fairs: Texas hosts numerous agricultural events, rodeos and fairs that showcase livestock and pets. These events often require veterinary services, further driving demand for veterinary professionals.
Factors affecting vet tech salaries in Texas
Several factors can affect the pay of veterinary technicians in Texas. Besides your level of education, years of experience and any specialty certifications you may hold, here are just a few factors that could impact your pay:
- Cost of living:
- The cost of living varies significantly across Texas. Vet techs working in urban areas like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio may earn higher salaries to offset the higher cost of living in these cities compared to those working in rural areas.
- Demand:
- Areas with a higher demand for veterinary services, driven by factors such as pet ownership rates and livestock populations, often offer higher pay. Urban centers and regions with significant agricultural activities tend to have higher demand and, consequently, higher salaries.
- Employer type:
- The type of employer may significantly impact pay. Vet techs working in specialty or emergency animal hospitals, research facilities or large animal practices may earn more than those in general small animal clinics. Employers such as Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, which offer advanced and specialty care, typically pay higher salaries.
- Regional economic conditions:
- The economic health of different regions within Texas can affect salaries. Areas with thriving economies, such as the oil-rich regions of West Texas or the tech hubs in Austin, may offer higher pay due to overall higher wages and competition for skilled workers.
- Educational background:
- Vet techs with advanced certifications or degrees may have higher earning potential. Texas has several accredited veterinary technology programs that provide opportunities for vet techs to enhance their qualifications and increase their pay.
- Advocacy:
- Professional associations such as the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) play a role in advocating for better pay and working conditions for vet techs. Active involvement in these associations may lead to improved industry standards and pay scales.
How do I know if I am paid fairly as a vet tech in Texas?
If you believe you are unfairly paid as a veterinary technician in Texas, and it is not related to discrimination based on protected classes, here are steps you can take to try and rectify the situation:
- Collect information: Look up salary data for veterinary technicians in your area. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale and the Bureau of Labor Statistics can provide insight into average salaries for your role and experience level. Check job postings for similar positions in your region to understand the prevailing wages. Contact organizations such as the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) for salary surveys and industry standards.
- Assess your work performance and reflect on your contributions, skills and any additional responsibilities you handle compared to peers who may be paid at a higher wage but do the same work. Document specific examples of your value to the practice. Make sure your certifications, education and any specialized training are up to date and relevant.
- Request a meeting with your supervisor or employer. Share your research and the reasons you believe your current pay is not reflective of your contributions and market standards. Listen to your employer’s perspective and be prepared for a discussion about your role and performance. If your employer is receptive, discuss possible salary adjustments, additional benefits or other forms of compensation. Make sure to follow up on any agreement that is reached.
- If no agreement is reached or your request is denied, look for opportunities within the organization that might come with higher pay, such as promotions or additional responsibilities. If your employer is unwilling or unable to meet your salary expectations, consider exploring job opportunities with other veterinary practices or institutions in Texas.
- Seek legal advice or file a complaint, especially if you believe you are being paid unfairly due to discrimination or violation of labor laws. You may want to consider consulting with the Texas State Bar Lawyer Referral Service to explore your legal options. You can also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor. More information can be found at the Office of the Commissioner Representing Labor under the texas Workforce Commission.
Education and training for Texas vet techs
While the educational requirements to become a veterinary technician in Texas are generally in line with national standards, the first step in any state is to complete your high school education with a focus on science courses such as biology and chemistry, which will be foundational for your further studies. Then you should prepare to complete the following:
- Accredited associate program: Enroll in an accredited associate degree program in veterinary technology. These programs typically take about two years to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Ensure the program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Accreditation is required for eligibility to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
- Licensing exam: After graduating from an accredited program, you must pass the VTNE, which is a requirement for licensure in Texas and most other states.
- Apply for licensing: Apply for licensure with the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TSBVME) after passing the VTNE. Licensure is mandatory to practice as a veterinary technician in Texas.
- Keep your license up to date: Take continuing education courses to stay current with advancements in veterinary medicine and meet the requirements for maintaining your licensure. The TVMA and other professional organizations often provide such courses. Vet techs in Texas must take 10 hours of continuing education classes every year to keep current.
- Earn specialty certification if you want to practice in a particular area: Consider pursuing advanced certifications in specialized areas of veterinary technology, such as anesthesia, dentistry, emergency and critical care, internal medicine or zoological medicine. Organizations like the Academy of Veterinary Technicians in Anesthesia and Analgesia (AVTAA) and the Academy of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Technicians (AVECCT) offer certifications in these areas.
Cost of living in Texas
RentCafe says the cost of living in Texas is 7% lower for the entire state than the national average. That doesn’t mean all metro areas are lower than the cost of living average however. But housing in average across the state is 17% lower and healthcare is 7% lower. Only utilities are higher, at 3% more than the national average. Here are costs of living for the Texas cities that have venues that employ vet techs, including cities that have a large cattle population such as Amarillo and Corpus Christi:
| Texas city | Cost of living (versus the national average) |
|---|---|
| Austin | 1% lower |
| Dallas | 2% higher |
| Houston | 6% lower |
| San Antonio | 9% lower |
| Fort Worth | 6% lower |
| Amarillo | 15% lower |
| Corpus Christi | 9% lower |
Texas professional vet tech associations
The following organizations provide resources and support for veterinary technicians and technologists in Texas, helping techs advance their careers through continuing education and networking to help them stay connected with their professional community.
Veterinary Team Association of Texas (VTAT): VTAT offers many benefits to members including discounted NAVTA annual membership, discounted attendance on select conferences, networking opportunities, continuing education and VTNE and CVA exam scholarships.
Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA): TVMA provides the continuing education, tools, resources and support Texas veterinary technicians need to help them be successful.
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This vet tech salary guide for Texas strives to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.