Veterinarian

Alex Waters3rd hour CMT

What does a Veterinarian do? A veterinarian cares for the heath of other animals. They diagnose, treat, or research medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and animals in zoos, racetracks and laboratories.

Primary Responsibilities of a Vet•They examine animals to diagnose their

health problems•Treat and dress wounds•Perform surgery on animals•Operate medical equipment•Prescribe medication

Requirements

•Must have a doctoral or professional degree. Must have proper training•Must be good with animals and people

Employers and job outlook/growth•As a vet you may either work indoors or outdoors

depending on which type of animals you work with.

•You will mainly work in an animal hospital or clinic•Their job outlook is 36% which is much faster than

average, so finding a job is relatively easy.

Educational Preparation

Must complete a Doctoral or Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M or V.M.D) degree at an accredited college of veterinary medicine. You also must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing exam.

Salary range

About $82,040 per year

About $39.44 per hour

Job Characteristics

Some may work nights or weekends, and they may have to respond to emergencies outside of scheduled work hours. About 1 in 4 veterinarians worked more than 50 hours per week in 2010. Travel depends on which animals you work with.

Career Path

Formal experience, such as work with veterinarians or scientists in clinics, agribusiness, research, or some area of health science is particularly advantageous. Less formal experience, such as working with animals on a farm, at a stable, or in an animal shelter can also be helpful.

Positive and Negative featuresPositives:

•You get to help animals•You wont have much trouble finding a job•It pays well

Negatives:•You work long hours•You have a lot of schooling to go through •You may have to deal with unhappy owners and

pets

Steps to take to become a Vet

•Volunteer at local clinics or something like one•Start preparing yourself with classes•Go to a good college with a good

veterinary program