Information on Vets
Many young children have dreams of becoming a veterinarian. In fact, so do many adults. For most, a strong love of animals attracts them to the study of veterinary medicine. It is important to consider the challenges and rewards of studying veterinary medicine before entering a program.
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Education
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Veterinarians need a doctor of veterinary medicine degree and must be licensed at the state level, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says, adding that admission to veterinary schools is competitive. There are only 28 colleges available with accredited veterinary medicine programs, and only 1 in 3 applicants to those schools is accepted into the doctor of veterinary medicine program. Before entering a program, a student should be well-versed in chemistry and biology.
Duties
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Depending on the field that a veterinarian enters, she may treat livestock, work only with horses, deliver medication, fix broken bones or educate people about proper care. Most veterinarians work with small animals and pets. This job involves all aspects from pet care, from nutrition to surgery and euthanasia. A veterinarian may also work exclusively with farm animals and will help deliver baby animals and treat injuries and sicknesses.
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Dangers
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Working with animals does pose a risk to the veterinarian. It is possible to come into contact with illnesses like rabies, hantavirus and cat scratch disease. Following safety protocols can help a veterinarian reduce his risk of contracting these illnesses. Also, it is important to consider the location and type of animal. Wild animals are more at risk for contracting and passing on rabies and hantavirus then are domestic animals like cats and dogs.
Salary
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As of 2008, the median salary for a veterinarian was $79,050. The lowest 10 percent of veterinarians earned less than $46,610, while the top 10 percent earned over $143,660, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says. Salary can depend on the size of the veterinary office and its location.
Skills
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Veterinarians should of course work well with animals. Many people are drawn to veterinary work because of a passion for helping animals. Know that the veterinarian will also have to interact with the animal's owners. Another challenge to being a veterinarian is the distress that many animals may be in when in need of care.
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References
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