The Cool Sheep Careers

VETERINARIAN

ALSO CALLED

  • Veterinary surgeon
  • Vet

WHAT’S THE JOB ABOUT?

  • Treating and preventing diseases in animals

Diagnosis and treatment of injury/illness, prescription of medications, surgery, vaccination, dietary recommendations, euthanasia

  • Advising farmers and pet owners

Flock/herd health programs, feeding/breeding strategies, certifying soundness for breeding and performance programs

  • Specialising in particular types of animals or fields in veterinary science

Large and small livestock, pets/companion animals, native and exotic species

 

WORK CONDITIONS

  • Veterinarians can work in private practice or for government departments, universities, research organisations and large companies.

 

  • Work may take place in a veterinary surgery, on farms and at racing/stabling facilities, quarantine stations, research facilities, zoos and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Veterinarians often work long and irregular hours including being on call at nights and on weekends.

 

  • The job is very practical and uses applied scientific research.
  • Opportunities exist to travel both within Australia and overseas to work and attend conferences.

 

  • Sufficient funds or financial backing are essential to purchase/ lease premises and establish a veterinary practice.
  • Small business management skills are essential for the successful operation of a veterinary practice.

 

EXPERIENCE AND RELATED TRAINING

  • To be employed as veterinarian you must have a degree in Veterinary Science.

 

  • Specialisation usually occurs through postgraduate studies.

 

Career path

 

Training Requirements

 

  • Veterinarian

 

You undertake a number of the above tasks working in a private practice or for government agencies, institutions or drug companies.

TERTIARY EDUCATION

  • Degree in Veterinary Science

(or equivalent)

  • Principal of a Veterinary Practice

 

You own and operate a veterinary practice, usually employing staff such as other veterinarians and veterinary nurses.

TERTIARY EDUCATION

  • Degree in Veterinary Science

(or equivalent)

  • Consultant Veterinarian

 

You have specialised in a particular field of veterinary science and provide advice and specialist skills to veterinarians and other clients.

TERTIARY EDUCATION

  • Post graduate degree (Masters /PhD)

in a field related to veterinary science or other specialist area.

 

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