Heather Brittingham is a highly accomplished veterinary technician with over 12 years of experience working in zoos across the United States. She is one of only 20 specialists in zoo veterinary technology, a credential achieved through a rigorous three-year process. Heather is recognized for developing advanced protocols, delivering in-house diagnostic laboratory training, enhancing diagnostic imaging practices, and implementing techniques that improve patient care. She has established and led veterinary technician student programs at multiple zoos, cultivating a diverse national talent pool, mentoring colleagues, and introducing industry-wide improvements. Motivated to help technicians tackle complex species challenges, Heather founded Zoo Veterinary Technician Training, LLC, where she now provides these services full-time.

Through Zoo Veterinary Technician Training (ZVTT), Heather mentors and trains others as a recognized expert. She supports onboarding and develops staff to elevate patient care standards. Zoos and exotic animal clinics employ credentialed veterinary technicians, but technicians face significant challenges when transitioning to non-domestic animal care or adapting to new facilities. Newly hired technicians typically need one to two years to achieve full proficiency. During this period, existing staff train and integrate new team members, which can temporarily reduce operational efficiency. The daily emergence of new and complex tasks further demands focused attention and specialized expertise.

Heather advances the professional recognition of highly trained veterinary technicians and empowers them to build confidence in their skills across all species. Her commitment helps elevate medical standards for zoo and exotic companion animals.