As written, the current regs prohibit the veterinary students working part-time at our hospital from placing IV catheters.  This borders on being ludicrous.  In my opinion, a properly trained non-licensed person should be able to place IV catheters in peripheral veins, just as they are currrently allowed to draw blood samples and take radiographs.  We value are highly skilled LVTs,and this in no way diminishes the respect we have for them and the skills they possess.  (Such skills extend well beyond placing IV catheters.)  The bottom line - the veteriarian is ultimately responsible for the care each patient receives.  It is our responsibility to ensure that our support staff are properly trained. We owe it to the patients and their owners.