Veterinary Science Careers

If you are compassionate, caring, and have a love for animals, an aptitude test may point you toward a career involving animals, and if you are interested in the field of medicine, a career in veterinary science and medicine may be the right career path for you. As a veterinarian or veterinarian technician, you will have the opportunity to help animals in need, whether they require general medical, dental, or therapeutic care. Like humans, animals require medical treatment from trained, caring professionals who can accommodate their varying needs.

Human medicine and animal medicine:  What's the difference?
The difference between practicing medicine for humans and practicing medicine for animals is that an animal cannot tell you when he is in pain, or where it hurts. As a veterinarian, it will be your job to determine the cause of their ailments. Their humans may be frustrated and upset that they cannot determine the degree of their beloved pets' sicknesses, which can make your job that much more rewarding when you are able to properly diagnose your four-legged patients. They cannot speak for themselves when they are ill, you must do it for them, which will make your career in veterinary medicine an important one.

What do you study in veterinary medicine?
When you study veterinary medicine, you will be trained to handle patients of all kinds, from common domestic pets like dogs and cats to the more exotic brand like reptiles and horses. Some veterinary practitioners even go on to offer their services to organizations like public zoos or animal sanctuaries for the larger species of animal who require special attention. The need of every animal is different and during your studies, you will be trained in the proper techniques to administer quality health care to all animals in need.

What can I expect from a career as a veterinarian?
Becoming a veterinarian is much like becoming a doctor who practices on humans. You will take an oath in which you promise to use your knowledge for the benefit of your patients and society, and you will need to be well-trained in science, business management, and interpersonal communication. Pet owners will be relying on your expertise. Careers as veterinarians can be rewarding experiences for all animal-lovers, provided they have scientific minds and an eagerness to help improve the quality of life in their patients.

What about a veterinarian technician?
As a veterinary technician, you could perform laboratory tests, take blood samples, assist with dental care, expose and develop x rays and radiographs, and perform a multitude of tasks to assist with care for animals.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook is great for veterinary technologists and technicians, and the field is expected to grow by more than 30 percent from 2008-2018.

Other types of Medical and healthcare careers for animals: Animal Training

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The growth outlook for Veterinary Science careers is estimated at about 36% while the estimated growth for all career fields over that same span is at about 10.12%. Over the next six years, Veterinary Science jobs are expected to grow at a 256% higher rate than the national average for annual salaries.