Mentorship Can Help Equine Vet Techs Grow Confidence and Competence

View the original article titled, “How can mentorship help equine technicians grow their confidence and competence?,” published in a supplement of the December 2024 issue of The Modern Equine Vet.

At MentorVet, we know that mentorship can be transformative for early-career veterinary technicians. The burnout and compassion fatigue that accompany the stresses of being an equine technician are too often overlooked. But having someone to guide them both professionally and emotionally can make all the difference. The right mentor can offer a blend of skill development, career advancement opportunities and personal support that is essential for their long-term success and well-being.

Enhanced Development

It's always beneficial to learn from an experienced professional, especially when it comes to taking care of the unique needs of equine clients and patients. When technicians have a mentor to learn from, whether by working together on a skill in-clinic or asking a question over the phone, they can grow their skill set more quickly. Taking the opportunity to enhance their abilities leads to higher competence, confidence and efficiency, which can make equine technicians highly valuable — and valued — team members.

Career Advancement

Mentors can help technicians identify their career goals and provide guidance to enable them to follow their ambitions. For instance, if a technician aspires to attain a Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS) in equine nursing, a mentor can provide advice on the necessary steps and offer support throughout the process. Mentors can also help technicians build a network of advisors, leaders and advocates, which can lead to new learning and job opportunities, collaborations or speaking engagements.

Communication Skills

The ability to communicate confidently and effectively is essential for technicians, whether it's with a client, a team member or a veterinarian. Mentors can be trusted coaches in this journey. For example, a mentor could help the technician role-play challenging conversations about cost of care and payment, providing a safe space to practice and refine these types of crucial skills.

Emotional Support

We can’t say enough about how important it is to have someone to call at the end of the day who can empathize with our experiences. A support system is essential to healthy growth as a technician. We all need someone who understands the pressures of the job and can offer advice on managing stress. A mentor can be that guide in setting boundaries, gaining emotional intelligence and practicing self-care.

Investing in Technicians Is Investing in Equine Medicine

Technicians play a crucial role in the functionality and sustainability of our practices. Investing in their well-being is investing in the future of the equine veterinary industry. At the end of the day, strong and healthy team members can help lead to a strong and financially healthy practice.

Helpful Educational Resources

CareCredit is passionate about empowering technicians in their financial, emotional and professional growth. You can discover resources to help technicians grow in all three areas of their job in our Equine Care Resource Center. And you can sign up for a new Financial Care course sponsored by CareCredit, where you’ll earn eight hours of RACE-approved CE upon completion.

A Flexible Financing Solution for Your Equine Veterinary Practice

Looking for a way to give your clients a flexible way to pay for care throughout their horse's lifetime? Consider offering the CareCredit credit card as a financing solution. CareCredit allows horse owners to pay for equine veterinary services over time while helping to enhance the payments process for your practice.

When you accept CareCredit, clients can see if they prequalify with no impact to their credit score, and those who apply, if approved, can take advantage of special financing on qualifying purchases.* Additionally, you will be paid directly within two business days.

Learn more about the CareCredit credit card as a veterinary financing solution or start the provider enrollment process by filling out this form.

Author Bios

Mariel Hendricks, MV.Ed., R.V.T.g, is the director of learning and development at MentorVet. Since receiving her bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology from Purdue in 2010, she has served on the Indiana Veterinary Technology Association Board, the NAVTA Executive Board and the Central Indiana Veterinary Medical Association Board.

Addie Reinhard, D.V.M., M.S., is a veterinary well-being researcher as well as founder and CEO of MentorVet. She received her master’s degree in community and leadership development and a graduate certificate in college teaching and learning from the University of Kentucky. She also has a certificate in veterinary human support.

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