Owing to the fact that veterinary medicine is very competitive, employers are willing to pay high salaries to professionals with good qualifications and work experience.
If you are fond of animals and care for them, then a career in veterinary medicine may be the right choice for you. Unlike human beings, animals don’t have the ability to speak and express their pain and discomfort. Vets hold an important place in our society, as they help animals in times of disease and injury.
Earning Potential of a Veterinary Surgeon
As per the principal fact-finding organization in the United States, which is the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of veterinarians in the year 2008 was USD 79,000 approximately.
In the year 2010, average salary was nearly USD 50,000 and that is certainly a great start for career aspirants in this field. Since the number of veterinary schools is less and the competition is equally high, there is a high probability of getting paid well, while working in this profession.
As per data provided by the American Veterinary Association, salaries of these surgeons vary significantly, depending upon their respective fields of specialization. As per the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, for the year 2008 – 2009, the salaries of these doctors vary, depending on the animals species they treat.
A veterinarian, with many years of experience, who treats large animals can earn anywhere between USD 50,000 to USD 60,000. Those in private clinical practice can earn anywhere between USD 55,000 to USD 65,000. The salary depends on educational qualifications, employer type, and work experience.
Facts About Veterinary Jobs
- Veterinary medicine is one of the most competitive professions and to gain an entry in a training school, there is high competition.
- Professionals in this field have to work for long hours. Vets never know when they can be called for help. Many have to deal with sensitive pet owners who can be demanding at times.
- Nearly 80% of vets are employed solo or in various group practices.
- Medical schools, private universities, research laboratories, and private industries are amongst other employers of these surgeons.
- Even the US Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for veterinary medicine employs vets.
- An undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 – 4 and good scores in GRE (work experience is a bonus) is a basic requirement. Many colleges don’t require a bachelor’s degree for admissions to their veterinary departments. Some colleges also accept the Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT), or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores. Depending on the college you’re applying for, requirements may vary.
The salary of a veterinary surgeon gradually crosses the USD 50,000 mark with work experience and increased skills. Dealing with animals is a task that requires patience and compassion. If you have what it takes, then you must take efforts to make a great career in this field.