Veterinarians diagnose and treat illnesses in animals, provide preventive care, perform surgeries, administer vaccinations, prescribe medications, advise owners on proper care, conduct research, and may specialize in areas such as surgery, dentistry, or internal medicine.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $72,550.00 |
25th percentile | $98,900.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $127,560.00 |
75th percentile | $159,760.00 |
90th percentile | $236,080.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $34.88 |
25th percentile | $47.55 |
median (50th percentile) | $61.33 |
75th percentile | $76.81 |
90th percentile | $113.50 |
To become a Veterinarian, individuals typically need to complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college or university, which usually takes around four years to finish. Prior to entering a DVM program, aspiring veterinarians must complete a bachelor's degree with coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and other related fields. It is essential to have completed both high school and college to pursue this career. Additionally, obtaining a state license is required to practice veterinary medicine. Specialization through internships, residencies, or postgraduate programs may also be pursued for further expertise. Training for Veterinarians often involves a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experience. Students in veterinary programs learn about animal anatomy, physiology, diseases, medications, and surgical techniques. Hands-on training is provided through rotations in various animal healthcare settings, such as clinics, hospitals, and research facilities. Additionally, many veterinarians choose to complete internships or residency programs after graduation to gain specialized knowledge in areas like surgery, dentistry, or internal medicine. Continuing education is crucial for veterinarians to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in animal care and treatment.