How to Become a Large Animal Veterinarian
According to experts, large animal veterinarians represent the most sought-after sector in veterinary medicine. This is because most graduates choose to stay in the city rather than moving to the country or practicing in small towns. Not surprisingly, those who choose to become large animal veterinarians end up making an income twice as large as those working with regular animal populations.
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Instructions
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Get the Degree
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Take elective courses in animal husbandry, livestock management and disease control. During your practice, choose to work at a farm, ranch or animal welfare controller rather than working at a clinic.
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Get a veterinary license and accreditation for large animal care through the veterinary Medical Examining Board. Recent graduates can only apply for an Intern Permit, after which they are required to undergo a minimum of 1 year of active practice before they are allowed to take the license examination.
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Take CEs (continuing education credits) to keep your education and your license current. This requires a minimum of 30 hours of education in the form of workshops, lectures, publications and other types of learning methods.
Get the Job
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Decide if you want to work in research and development early on. This is because the area requires some specific practice and coursework that you need to follow before applying for a position. Once you become a large animal veterinarian, however, you can then find employment as a food controller, in herd health management and cutting edge laboratories.
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Consider moving to a rural area. While it is possible to become a large animal veterinarian by commuting back and forth from the city, your chances of having a profitable practice will increase if you actually live near farmland.
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Look for jobs at the Veterinarian Career Center of the American Veterinary Medical Association (see Resources below). This is an especially great resource if you are looking to relocate to other areas but are unable to research opportunities for farm work at a distance.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider all the pros and cons of working with farm animals from the beginning. Working most of your time outside may be something positive or negative, depending on your preferences. Also, keep in mind that the conditions may not be the cleanest or most comfortable.
