Guide to Health Careers

Veterinarian

from: http://www.communityhealthcareers.com/careers_veterinarian.htm

Veterinarians are doctors who care for large or small animals. They diagnose and treat sick and injured animals and work to prevent diseases through routine vaccinations. They also advise caregivers about how to best feed, house and care for their animals. Most veterinarians work in clinics treating smaller animals, but those who work with large animals such as horses and livestock travel to farms and ranches to provide their services.

The Cool Things They Do:

Examine animals for diseases and unusual conditions
Treat sick or injured animals by prescribing medicine, setting fractures, dressing wounds or performing surgery
Vaccinate animals to prevent illness
Advise clients on feeding, housing, breeding, hygiene, behaviour and general care of animals
Help sick or unwanted animals die with little or no pain

Working Conditions:

Veterinarians usually work indoors in clinics, although some have mobile clinics and travel to barns or open fields to help animals. Their work involves a great deal of physical maneuvering and they risk getting bit, scratched, and kicked when performing their duties. Exposure to many different diseases is also a risk. Veterinarians work long hours and are often called upon to address emergency situations at night and on weekends.

Most Veterinarian work in:

Animal hospitals and clinics
Private practices
Federal and provincial governments
Universities
Laboratories

Personal Characteristics/Skills:

Genuine interest in caring for animals
Sensitivity toward animals
Good observation skills
Ability to work well under pressure
Strong interpersonal skills
Good physical strength and stamina

Education and Training Required:

Pre-Veterinary University studies followed by a university degree in Veterinary Medicine

Length of Study/Training : 6-8 years post-secondary

Certification (s):

Ontario : Licensing by the College of Veterinarians of Ontario

All Provinces : Pass National Examining Board exam

Helpful High School Courses:

Math
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
English

Employment Prospects - GOOD

Employment for this occupation is expected to grow at an average rate. Some job openings will result from the need to replace veterinarians who retire.

Earnings:

Average annual salary: $35,000 to more than $55,000, depending on experience and place of work. Owners of successful private clinics may earn as much as $100,000 annually.

More Information:

The College of Veterinarians of Ontario
http://www.cvo.org

Ontario Veterinary Medical Association
http://www.ovma.org

Canadian Committee on Antibiotic Resistance
http://www.ccar-ccra.com

Canadian Federation of Humane Societies
http://www.cfhs.ca

American Veterinary Medical Association
http://www.avma.org

Job Futures:

Specialist Physicians
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/3112.shtml