In Manitoba, RVTs:

• must have graduated from a CVMA or AVMA accredited college and passed the VTNE.
• must register annually with both the MVMA and the MVTA in order to practice veterinary medicine.
  • The MVMA is the provincial regulatory body for veterinary medicine in Manitoba.
  • The MVTA is the member advocacy group for the RVT profession in Manitoba.  Our role is to unify the voice of RVTs in the province and advocate on behalf of our members.
• are members and have voting rights with the MVMA and MVTA.
• hold voting council seats on the MVMA council.
• have title protection under the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Act.
• have an exclusive scope of practice under the MVMA's By-Law 1
  • In Manitoba, RVTs may engage in all aspects of veterinary medicine except diagnosing, determining treatment courses, prescribing medications, and performing surgical techniques.
  • Delegation of veterinary medicine falls under the supervising licensed DVM.
• are a regulated profession and require professional liability insurance in order to practice veterinary medicine.
• are required to obtain 30 hours of continuing education each 24 month period, as defined by the MVMA.

Who do I submit my CE to?

• CE requirements for RVTs fall under the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) responsibility as they are the regulatory body of veterinary medicine in Manitoba.  The MVMA establishes policies and enforces requirements relating to CE.

Where do I find the MVMA's CE Policy for RVTs?

• HERE is a link to the MVMA's CE Policy for RVTs in Manitoba and for other information relating to CE requirements.

When is the next reporting window for RVTs?

• The next reporting period for RVTs in Manitoba is June 1, 2024 - May 31, 2026.

How many hours do I need get and when do I need to submit them?

• In Manitoba, RVTs must obtain 30 hours of continuing education (CE) credit hours each 24-month period.

As a new graduate, what is my requirement for CE?

• If you are a new graduate or new to working as an RVT in Manitoba, please refer to the MVMA's CE Policy for information on your requirements for CE.

For any additional questions on CE, please reach out to the MVMA at [email protected].

Where are MVTA Career Postings?

• In Manitoba, the MVTA’s website hosts current career opportunities for RVTs in Manitoba and Canada.  HERE is a link to our website.

Where can I advertise a vacancy?

• To advertise career opportunities with the MVTA, click HERE to access our online form. All submitted ads are reviewed and posted within 5 business days from submission.
• To extend your active career posting, click HERE. Your ad must be current in order for it to be extended.  Please check to see if it appears under our current career opportunities prior to extending your ad.

Please be sure to check out our Career Centre!

Where can I find the MVTA RVT Compensation Reports?

• We have a dedicated page on our website for our Compensation Reports.  Click HERE to access them.

How often does the MVTA conduct compensation survey's and why?

• The MVTA has conducted a compensation survey every 2 years to:
  • Provide data for fair compensation advocacy
  • Identify trends and gaps in the industry
  • Offer recommendations to employers
  • Support pay transparency

What should I be paid for working as an RVT in Manitoba?

• Your salary is determined between you and your employer and your salary should be negotiated based on the market indicators, your qualifications, experience, and job responsibilities.
• We recommend to our members and their employers to use the MVTA's Compensation Reports during these conversations.  These reports can be found HERE.

What is/maybe/should be included in my total compensation package?

• From the 2022 RVT Compensation Report, done in collaboration with Alberta and Saskatchewan, click HERE to find out the recommendations for a comprehensive compensation and benefits statement.
• From the 2022 RVT Compensation Report there were 17 recommendations that are still very valid for today's RVT and employer.  We feel all RVT need to bring these recommendations forward to their employer.
  • Please note that the values stated in these recommendations are based off of the 2022 report and are outdated but the concepts behind the recommendations are valid.

How do I know if my employer is following the labour laws in Manitoba?

• Every RVT should familiarize themselves with Employment Standards in Manitoba, specifically how it applies to you and your situation.  If you are unsure, please visit the Manitoba Employment Standards website.

I'm due for my annual review, how do I approach my employer about a pay increase?

• Be prepared
  • Look through industry reports
  • Review your contract
  • Document your training and how it benefited the employer/clinic
• Choose the right timing
  • Check your contract for an anniversary date
  • Try to plan the meeting 2-3 months before the end of the business' fiscal year
• Start the conversation
  • Discuss your performance before compensation
  • Highlight your achievements and the value you add
• Present your case
  • Be confident and avoid emotional responses.
  • Explain why you deserve an increase based on:
    • Merit Increase
      • Performance
      • Achievements
    • Annual Increase
      • Cost of Living Increases
      • Provincial minimum increase
• Be realistic and flexible
  • Have a target in mind but be open to negotiation
    • Per hour increase
    • Increase in personal days
    • Increase in vacation days
    • Increase in CE
• Follow up
  • If your request isn't approved, ask for clarity on what's needed for a future raise
  • Set a time to revisit the conversation

Who is responsible for investigating veterinary medical complaints in Manitoba?

• The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) is governed by The Veterinary Medical Act and has the duty and authority to investigate complaints about veterinarians and veterinarian technologists in the province of Manitoba. They review/investigate allegations regarding the conduct or competence of veterinarians and veterinarian technologists. Their mandate is to regulate the practice of veterinary medicine in Manitoba to ensure that the public and animals are served by a competent and ethical standard of practice.

Can a complaint against an RVT be brought forward to the MVMA?

• Yes, the MVMA has the duty and authority to investigate complaints about RVTs in the province of Manitoba.

What is the veterinary complaint process in Manitoba?

• Please visit the MVMA's website to find out about their complaints process.

Where do I submit a complaint regarding an animal welfare concern?

• In Manitoba, you would contact the Provincial Animal Care Line.
  • Phone: 204-945-8000 or 1-888-945-8001
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Or visit their website

Is there a program in Manitoba for becoming a Veterinary Technologist?

• In Manitoba the sole accredited program is the Veterinary Technology Program at Red River College Polytechnic.
  • To find out their entry requirements, click HERE.
  • Should you have any questions about the program at RRCP, please contact their Academic Advising Service office directly.
• There are also distance education programs (see question below).
• Please be sure that if you are enrolling in a program, it must be either CVMA or AVMA accredited in order for it to be accepted in Manitoba.

Is there an option for distance education to become a veterinary technologist?

• Yes, there are a number of accredited distance veterinary technology programs. In Canada, the current programs that are accredited are offered at:
  • Thompson Rivers University
  • Olds College
  • University of Guelph
• In the United States, these programs must be AVMA accredited in order for it to be accepted in Manitoba, and those can be found on the AVMA's website.

Do MVTA Members have an employer assistance program?

• Yes, The MVTA partnered with the MVMA to hire Homewood Health to operate as a resource for our members and their immediate family members to use. Homewood offers a full range of mental health care for every need—from common issues related to anxiety, stress and depression management to more urgent needs like crisis intervention. Their Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) ensures that MVTA members have the support they need at the right intensity. As part of their service they offer:
  • Counselling & Therapy for Employees & Families
  • Employee Call Line for Counselling Intake & EFAP Support
  • Coaching for Personal Development
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Wellness
  • Digital Health Platform & Online Mental Health Tools
  • Health Resources & Courses for Employee Well-Being

How do I access Homewood Health's EFAP?

• To access your program with Homewood Health:
  • Call 1-800-633-1143 (code MVM472)
  • Visit their website
    • Register for an account
    • Search "MVMA" under Company Name/Organization and select Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association.
    • Enter MVMA472 under the invitation code.

What benefits does the MVTA offer our members?

• We have discounts with:
  • Marks
  • True North Sports & Entertainment
  • Fear Free
  • Shapes
• Links to these discounts can be found in your MVTA emails.  If you are not receiving your member updates, please contact our office at [email protected]

What are the steps to becoming an RVT in Manitoba?

What is the membership process for new members in Manitoba?

• In Manitoba, the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) is the provincial regulatory body for veterinary medicine and is responsible for the registration and regulation of veterinary technologists.  The MVMA registers individuals in Manitoba for both the MVMA and the MVTA.
  • If you are a graduate of a CVMA or AVMA accredited program, click HERE.
  • If you are a student attending a CVMA or AVMA accredited program, click HERE.
  • For international trained individuals, please contact the MVMA at [email protected]
  • For information on Labour Mobility applications, click HERE.

What is the renewal process for RVTs in Manitoba?

• The registration renewal process for RVTs and VT Students will be done online by link provided to members by the MVMA.  The MVMA will collect the registration fees and information on behalf of the MVTA. This process is simpler and easier for RVT applicants and members and ensures the MVMA meets their regulatory requirements for RVTs.
• Membership renewals will be sent out by the MVMA mid-April annually.
• All renewals will be completed online and HERE is a link to the MVMA's renewal instructions.  Should you have any questions regarding your renewal, please email the MVMA at [email protected]

Membership renewals, when are they due and what are the additional fees if I miss the deadline?

• Membership renewals will be sent out by the MVMA mid-April annually.
• Failure to submit fees by May 31st shall result in late renewal fees (MVMA- $27.00 + GST)( MVTA $50.00) of $78.35 levied against the member in addition to the outstanding fees.
• Fees paid after June 30th of this year will be charged both the late renewal fee $78.35 and reinstatement fees (MVMA- $27.00 + GST) (MVTA $100.00) of $128.35 totaling $206.70. A lapse of membership for non-payment of fees will result in ineligibility for registration and consequent inability to practice.

I am about to go on leave from my employment, what do I need to do or how should I register for the upcoming registration year?

• We suggest it's best to contact the MVMA as to what's best for your registration as your ability to practice veterinary medicine could be affected.  Please email them at [email protected]

I'm moving to another province, what is needed to ensure I can work as an RVT?

1. Find out the requirements needed by that Province.  HERE is the contact information for the provincial RVT associations across Canada.
2. If you require a Letter of Standing, please contact the MVMA at [email protected] to provide this for you. The MVTA does not provide these letters anymore.

I have moved, changed my name, switched employers or need to update my contact information, what do I need to do?

• You will need to update your information with the MVMA.  HERE is a link to their website.
• To update the MVTA, please complete our online form found HERE.

I am needing to find out if an employee is a member (either DVM or RVT), where do I find this information?

• The MVMA has a public directory where you can search up individuals names.  Click HERE for the link to their page.

I allowed my membership to lapse and upon my return I was charged a reinstatement fee.  Is there a way I can have this refunded?

• Yes, under MVTA Policy, any member may request a refund of the Reinstatement Fee, once payment has been submitted.  Applications shall be submitted by completing our online form found HERE.

Do RVTs in Manitoba have a protected scope of practice?

• Yes, in the MVMA By-Law No. 1 it states:
  • RVT Scope of Practice
    2-9-10 A Practicing Veterinary Technologist Member may practice all aspects of veterinary medicine other than
    (a) making a diagnosis
    (b) determining a course of treatment (including prescribing medications)
    (c) applying surgical techniques
• The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Act states:

  • Who may practise veterinary medicine
    3(1) A person must not engage in the practice of veterinary medicine unless the person

    (a) is a licensed member or a veterinary corporation; or

    (b) is a person or a member of a class of persons specified in the by-laws and engages in the practice of veterinary medicine only in accordance with the by-laws and within the scope of practice authorized by the by-laws.

How is the practice of veterinary medicine delegated to an RVT:

• Veterinary Technologists are permitted to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine under a protected scope of practice. The MVMA created a Delegation of Veterinary Tasks Regulatory Policy serves to provide veterinary professionals with better clarity and guidance on how tasks can be delegated.

I am not sure when my titre testing was done last, where do I go to check?

• We have created a page on our website relating to titre testing, please click HERE for more information.

How does the MVTA's Advancement work?

• The MVTA RVT Advancement Fund was created to provide funds for RVTs in good standing who may want to pursue a specialist designation, an undergraduate or graduate degree, attend a conference, transition to a new aspect of animal health or for RVTs that require monetary support to engage in new initiatives related to the animal health care team. Our online application period runs from September 1-30th annually for interested RVTs.

What awards does the MVTA give out annually?

• The MVTA gives out two awards annually to Red River College Polytechnic (RRCP) Veterinary Technology Students:
  • All first year RRCP students are eligible for the award and is selected by the Veterinary Technology staff at RRCP. The award is given to the student with the highest academic performance in the first year of the program. The winner receives a monetary award from the Association and personalized stethoscope which is presented at a luncheon hosted by the Veterinary Technology program in the fall of each year.
  • All graduating second year RRCP Veterinary Technology Program students are eligible for the award and is selected by the RRCP Veterinary Technology second year graduating class. The winner receives a monetary award from the Association and a personalized stethoscope.

Does the MVTA award RVT of the Year?

• The MVTA decided in 2021 to move away from recognizing one RVT every year as RVT of the Year.  We have moved towards having members recognizing their colleagues and the MVTA provides 10 or more personalized stethoscopes based one these nominations.  The MVMA has a program where they recognize an RVT of the Year annually and the MVTA supports this award and attends their awards ceremonies.

How is RVT month celebrated in Manitoba?

• We believe that Veterinary Technologists (RVTs) deserve to be celebrated not just during the month of October, but all year round. Our incredible members work tirelessly to ensure the health and well-being of animals, making a significant impact in the world of veterinary medicine. Please visit our website for more about how the MVTA celebrates RVT Month.
• We feel that employers and workplaces need to come together and celebrate their amazing and dedicated RVTs, whether its for a day, a week or the entire month.  Talk to your employers about planned activities for your workplace!

I've seen this month being proclaimed by the Province of Manitoba, where can I find those proclamations?

• You have a page dedicated to the proclamations that we have received by the Province of Manitoba.  Click HERE to check them out!

Do RVTs have title protection in Manitoba?

• Yes, in the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Act there are provisions that state:
  • "veterinary technologist" means an individual who meets the requirements for registration as a veterinary technologist provided for in the by-laws.
  • Titles interchangeable
    17(3) An individual who is registered with the association as a veterinary technologist may use the titles "veterinary technologist" and "animal health technologist".

  • Use of titles — "veterinary technologist" and "animal health technologist"
    17(4) No person except an individual who is registered with the association as a veterinary technologist shall

    (a) the title "veterinary technologist" or "animal health technologist"; or

    (b) a variation or abbreviation of either of those titles or an equivalent in another language.

  • Registered animal health technologists deemed to be veterinary technologists
    17(5) An individual registered with the association as an animal health technologist when this subsection comes into force is deemed to be registered as a veterinary technologist, and the individual is subject to this Act and the by-laws in the same manner as though originally registered as a veterinary technologist under this section.

What volunteer opportunities are there for RVTs in Manitoba?

• MVTA Board of Directors
• MVMA Council and MVMA Committees
• RRC Polytech Advisory
• Winnipeg Humane Society
• Rural and Remote Spay and Neuter Clinics
• Fostering

What are the steps to becoming an RVT in Manitoba?

Do I need to write and pass the VTNE in order to practice veterinary medicine as an RVT in Manitoba?

• Yes, the MVMA requires the passing of the VTNE.  This requirement is stated in their By-Law No.1:
  • 2-9-4 Application for registration - An applicant for registration as a veterinary technologist must:
    • (b) provide to the Registrar evidence satisfactory to the Registrar that the applicant has passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination;

What are some important details about the exam I need to know prior to writing the VTNE?

• You'll need to go to the AAVSB VTNE website.
• You need to read and familiarize yourself with the AAVSBs Candidate Handbook.
• You must be eligible to write the exam.
• You submit your online application to write the exam on the AAVSBs website
  • The VTNE is a 3-hour exam which consists of 170 multiple-choice questions. Your score on the VTNE is based on responses to 150 operational questions. The additional 20 pilot questions embedded in the test are used for constructing future examinations and will not count toward your final score.
  • You'll pay $365 USD by credit card when you submit your online application. 
  • When you complete your application, you’ll have the opportunity to indicate if you need to request accommodations. The process can take time, so, if you anticipate the need to request accommodations, it’s best to start the process early in the application window.

When are the writing window for the VTNE?

• February 15 - April 15 (Application cut off is March 15)
• May 15 - July 15 (Application cut off is June 15)
• August 15 - October 15 (Application cut off is September 15)
• November 15 - January 15 (Application cut off is December 15)

How many times can I write the VTNE?

• AAVSB will permit candidates to take the VTNE five times. You must apply to the AAVSB Board of Directors for approval to take the exam for each attempt beyond 5 attempts. Email [email protected] for instructions.
• The MVMA has a requirement based on their Restricted Veterinary Technologist member that allows these members 2 years to complete the VTNE.  For more information, please contact the MVMA at [email protected]

I am looking for assistance in preparing for the VTNE, what recommendations does the MVTA have?

• Become familiar with the steps needed to write the exam, here is a link to the AAVSB's website: https://www.aavsb.org/vtne-overview.
• Go over the AAVSB Candidate Handbook.  This contains information that will help you with questions you may have leading up to writing the test.
• Look to your colleagues for their recommendations - you may already be working in a clinic, speak to your fellow RVTs to see what works best for them and ask how they prepared for the VTNE.
• Online Study tools or Aps:
  • CleverOrcaVT - Features: Offers 2,000+ practice questions, full mock exams, a digital "Top 150 Drugs" booklet, and study guides mapped to the VTNE blueprint. It also includes unique memory techniques like "WakeUpMemory™" to enhance retention. Benefits: Provides detailed performance tracking, unlimited attempts, and a pass-or-free-extension guarantee. Access: Available as both a mobile app and online tool.
  • VetTechPrep - Features: Includes thousands of practice questions, detailed explanations, mock exams, and performance metrics. The app is designed to simulate the VTNE experience closely. Benefits: Offers a balanced mix of content, tools, and questions tailored for VTNE success. Access: Requires a subscription to the VetTechPrep online course
  • VTNE Exam Prep Vet Tech Test - Features: Provides 2,500+ expert-written questions with detailed explanations, hundreds of quizzes, and a personalized study plan based on your skill level and target date. Benefits: Tracks progress with community stats and readiness scores to help determine when you're exam-ready. Access: Available on iOS devices with in-app purchase options for premium features
  • AAVSB VTNE Exam Prep - Features: Designed by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB), this app includes official practice questions and additional study materials aligned with the VTNE blueprint. Benefits: Reliable source directly from the organization responsible for the VTNE. Access: Available on mobile platforms
  • Pocket Prep VTNE - Features: Offers a free app with practice questions you can access anytime. Includes performance tracking and customizable quizzes.  Benefits: Convenient for studying on-the-go with a user-friendly interface.  Access: Available on both desktop and mobile devices.