What Does Veterinary Work Involve?
Veterinarians care for the health of a variety of animals, protect humans from diseases transmittable by animals, and some do research on animal health care problems. About 50% work exclusively with small animals, such as dogs and cats, 25% have mixed practices and may also treat pigs, sheep, and nondomestic animals, and the remaining 25% work exclusively with large animals like horses or cows.
Veterinarians vaccinate against diseases, treat infections and illnesses, care for wounds and fractures, perform surgeries, and advise owners on the best way to care for their animals. Some might work at a zoo or in a lab, drive to farms or ranches, or have private practices.
What Training or Degree Does a Veterinarian Need?
You must earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M. or V.M.D.) degree from an accredited 4-year veterinary medicine program and obtain a license to practice.
Prerequisites vary considerably, and although a bachelor's degree is not always required it is certainly recommended. You must usually have experiences in courses including:
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Biology
• Animal biology and nutrition
• Genetics
• Zoology
• Mathematics
You must also take the GRE exam, Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT), or Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) – check with the school to which you are applying to see if they have a preference.
Some previous veterinary training or experience can also help your chances of being accepted to a competitive program.
Career Outlook and Salary Ranges
Opportunities should remain excellent, as the demand for good veterinarians far surpasses the supply. The middle 50% of veterinarians earn between $51,420 and $88,060.
What Does Veterinary Work Involve?
Veterinarians care for the health of a variety of animals, protect humans from diseases transmittable by animals, and some do research on animal health care problems. About 50% work exclusively with small animals, such as dogs and cats, 25% have mixed practices and may also treat …
