Description

• Veterinarians provide health care for animals and pets of all sizes; from tiny hamsters to cattle and horses. In most cases, veterinarians, along with other animal specialists and assistants, work long hours and spend a great deal of time taking care of animals who have become sick or injured.
  
  

Duties

• Veterinarians commonly assess animal health problems, treat injuries and illness and give vaccinations. Some perform surgery when necessary. Veterinarians also assist pet owners with advice and tips in dealing with topics such as feeding, grooming, aging pets, health care and other issues of concern.
  
  

Education

• In the United States, veterinarians must obtain a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (D.V.M or V.M.D), and in many states they must also pass a state licensing exam.
  
  

Earnings

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, average earnings for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine vary greatly according to the type of practice they enter. The average yearly salary for a veterinarian is between $56,540 and $71,990. Specialized veterinarians generally average over $100,000 annually.
  
  

Career Outlook

• Due to the limited number of students graduating each year from veterinary colleges nationwide, employment opportunities are expected to grow rapidly over the next 10 years.