California Code, Business and Professions Code - BPC § 4840.5

Under conditions of an emergency, a registered veterinary technician may render such lifesaving aid and treatment as may be prescribed under regulations adopted by the board pursuant to Section 4836.  Such emergency aid and treatment if rendered to an animal patient not in the presence of a licensed veterinarian may only be continued under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.  “Emergency” for the purpose of this section, means that the animal has been placed in a life-threatening condition where immediate treatment is necessary.