Junior position at a vet clinic

I’d been a receptionist at a law firm for 16years and now I’m trying find my way in the vet industry cuz I love animals. But it seems my 16yrs experience is not good enough, every reception post I see requires at least 1yr work experience at vet clinics. I see some of you advise that people get a job at vet clinics first before enrolling in a vet tech program. I agree I also much prefer that before spending money, but the reality is they won’t even consider me 😟 Any suggestions? Thank you!