MSU honors state’s first-ever veterinary tech graduates

STARKVILLE — Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine recently honored its first graduating class in the four-year veterinary medical technology degree program with a special pinning ceremony.

Dr. Allison Gardner, clinical instructor in CVM’s veterinary medical technology program, said veterinary technologists make important contributions in the field of animal care.

“Veterinary technologists are a critical component of the animal health care team,” Gardner said. “A trained veterinary technologist can perform diagnostic tests such as radiographs, run lab work and conduct examinations to check for parasites.

“Having a trained veterinary technologist in a practice allows the veterinarian to better use his or her time — more patients can be seen, more surgeries can be performed, all while providing the best care for the animal.”

MSU is one of only three veterinary colleges in the United States to offer a four-year degree in veterinary medical technology, despite the increasing national demand.

The students will graduate in MSU commencement ceremonies in May.