AG
vet
You take care of others animals. you can save a life. You even can bring a new life to our planet. If it all comes down to it you can take a life out of our world. Its a hard job at times but you can help others in a really good way.
Basics
The country’s 55,410 veterinarians made an average $91,250 per year as of May 2011, according to the BLS. However, annual pay ranged from $50,480 to $141,680 per year. Veterinarians diagnose and treat pets and animals on farms, ranches, zoos, racetracks and laboratories. They prescribe medication, vaccinate animals and educate owners on general care. They dress wounds, perform surgery and operate medical equipment, such as x-ray machines. They can also euthanize animals that are beyond help. Veterinarians are often called by their animal specialties. For example, equine veterinarians handle horses, research veterinarians work in laboratories and food animal veterinarians inspect livestock.
Education
Veterinarians need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from one of 28 accredited veterinary programs. This course of study takes four years and combines classroom, laboratory and clinical experience. Most vets also have a bachelor’s degree, obtained before application to veterinary school. They must have courses in biology, chemistry, zoology, microbiology, animal science and anatomy. All states mandate a license. Though requirements vary by state, vets need the educational background, as well as a passing score on the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam. A state exam covering local regulations may also be needed. Some states do accept licenses from other locations, though most require a state-specific license to practice veterinary medicine.