I find it interesting that placing IV catheters is in question, a skill that requires practice and knowledge, while easier procedures are not even mentioned.  Why are we jumping into IV catheter placement when in reality, veterinary assistants are allowed to restrain patients for x-rays and develop the x-rays, but aren't allowed to PRESS A BUTTON to take the x-ray.  How much sense does it make that we are jumping into IV catheter placement- precision, stabilization, and patency, but the state doesn't allow these same  people to press a button.

I feel that we have jumped forward several steps and even more backwards.  More often then not assistants are hired off the street and many lack prior veterinary experience.  LVTs dedicated themselves to schooling, passing the boards, and maintaining good standings in the state of Virginia.  Is it in the patient's best interest to allow an under skilled worker perform such tasks on them? 

I also find it interesting that the ones who are in support of this passing are veterinary clinics and veterinarians, who are always looking for ways to cut costs. Being a LVT, we are the voice of the patient, passing this bill would allow for corners to be cut to save a buck and not either hire or truly utilize a licensed professional.