Do You Have It in You to Become a Vet?
Commonly called vets, veterinarians look after the health of pets, domestic animals, farm animals, zoo inmates, and even lab animals. While most vets are animal doctors, some focus on food safety and inspection, which involves checking livestock to ensure that humans do not get ill from infections transmitted by animals. Some others also undertake research into animal health conditions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for this occupation is very good and the sector is expected to grow much faster than others till 2026. While most jobs involve vets working in hospitals and offices, there is a sizeable number that visits farms and works in classrooms and labs.
What Does A Vet Typically Do?
Typically, veterinarians treat sick animals and perform common surgeries and dentistry. They also get involved when animals give birth in a controlled environment such as a farm or the zoo to look after the health of both the mother and the offspring. Animal shelters, as well as research laboratories, always have vets on call to treat animals in need. Just like doctors who look after the health of humans, vets also need to stay updated with the latest in preventative care as well as clinical and surgical procedures, equipment, and protocols governing anesthesia. Dealing with animals that are sick as well as their worried owners can be immensely stressful. They need to be extra careful, as animals that are in pain or are scared may bite or injure their caregivers. Like any doctor, vets are typically on call round-the-clock.
Eligibility, Training, and Licensing
Ideally, you need to have a bachelor’s degree even though there are a few colleges that don’t insist on it to obtain the degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from a college of veterinary medicine that’s accredited. Being good in your studies also helps because there are plenty of students seeking entry into the four-year course.
To practice, you will need a professional license from your state. Each and every state requires candidates to appear and qualify in the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) that is conducted by the International Council for Veterinary Assessment. There are some states that have their own qualifying examinations. Even though it is not obligatory, many vets opt to specialize in something like surgery or internal medicine so that they have an edge over the others. Typically, you will be first required to gain experience in the chosen specialty, pass an exam, go back for further studies or complete a 3-4 year residency program depending upon the state’s requirement.
Conclusion
Apart from the formal mandated education and training, you will also need some qualities that are not normally taught to be successful. Having compassion for both the animals and their owners is a fundamental prerequisite. You will also need to be able to think analytically despite stressful conditions so that you can select the best course of treatment. Refined interpersonal skills are essential as you will be required to spend considerable time in interacting with owners of animals, staff members, and workplace colleagues.
Author Bio: Alicia Hayworth is a career counselor at a leading college of veterinary medicine. She has been involved with Primp Play, a leading grooming facility for pets since inception.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
