On January 14, 2002, the North American Veterinary Technician Association was renamed the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). The move follows a vigorous, 20-year growth period that saw changes in the population of veterinary technicians that NAVTA represents.
NAVTA was formed in 1981 to represent veterinary technicians in the United States and Canada. During the last twenty years the mission of the association has evolved to primarily promoting the profession of veterinary technology in the U.S.
The Canadian Association of Animal Health Technologists and Technicians (CAAHTT) speaks on behalf of veterinary technicians in Canada. A Letter of Agreement was signed in 2001 between CAAHTT and NAVTA pledging to share resources, further the networking, and identify opportunities for both associations to work for the advancement of the profession.
Responding to the changes in both countries, NAVTA members overwhelmingly voted to change the Association’s name to more accurately describe the location of the veterinary technicians it speaks for. The change went into effect at the close of the 2002 General Membership Meeting.
NAVTA provides direction, education, support, and coordination for its members and works with other allied professional organizations for the competent care and humane treatment of animals. The association will continue to work on all areas and issues as it has in the past. Dues, benefits, and efforts will remain virtually unchanged.
The acronym – NAVTA – will continue to mean representation for veterinary technicians on all important issues. The association is headquartered in Battle Ground, IN., navta@navta.net, 765.742.2216, or P.O. Box 224, Battle Ground, IN 47920.
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