Veterinarians are medical professionals who specialize in animal health and wellness. They provide a range of services, from routine check-ups and preventative care to diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries. Here are some statistics regarding veterinarians and their profession:
Employment Statistics
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 89,500 veterinarians employed in the United States as of May 2023. The top employers of veterinarians were veterinary services (84%), government (7%), colleges and universities (3%), and social advocacy organizations (2%).
Gender and ethnicity
The veterinary profession is predominantly female, with women accounting for 64% of all veterinarians in the United States. The profession is also predominantly White, with 86% of veterinarians identifying as White. The remaining 14% of veterinarians identify as Asian (6%), Hispanic or Latino (4%), Black or African American (3%), and other or multiple races (1%).
Salary
The median annual salary for veterinarians in the United States was $119,100 as of May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $60,290, while the highest 10% earned more than $164,490. The salary for veterinarians can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, type of employer, and geographic location.
Job outlook
The job outlook for veterinarians is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 20% growth in employment from 2022 to 2032. This is much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. The demand for veterinary services is expected to continue to grow as pet ownership increases and people continue to spend more on their pets’ health and wellness.
Education and Licensure
Becoming a veterinarian requires a significant amount of education and training. In the United States, veterinarians must earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college. This typically requires four years of postgraduate study. After earning their degree, veterinarians must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) to obtain their license to practice veterinary medicine.
Specialties
Veterinarians can specialize in a variety of areas, such as surgery, dentistry, dermatology, and ophthalmology. To become a specialist, veterinarians must complete additional training and education in their area of focus. There are currently 22 recognized veterinary specialties in the United States, including internal medicine, emergency and critical care, and behavior.
Work environment
Veterinarians can work in a variety of settings, including private practices, animal hospitals, research facilities, and government agencies. The work environment can vary depending on the type of employer and the veterinarian’s specialty. Some veterinarians work primarily with small animals such as dogs and cats, while others focus on larger animals such as horses or farm animals.
Being a veterinarian is a career that comes with both rewards and challenges. On the one hand, it is a profession that provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose, as veterinarians have the opportunity to help animals and their owners on a daily basis. Whether it’s performing routine check-ups, treating illnesses, or performing life-saving surgeries, veterinarians have the ability to make a positive impact on the lives of animals and their families.
However, being a veterinarian can also be challenging. It requires a high level of technical skill and knowledge, as well as the ability to work with animals that may not always be cooperative. Additionally, veterinarians must be able to communicate effectively with pet owners, who may be emotional and stressed when their beloved animals are sick or injured.
Veterinarians also face ethical and moral dilemmas, such as deciding when it is appropriate to euthanize an animal, and dealing with pet owners who cannot afford expensive medical treatments. The emotional toll of dealing with sick or injured animals can also be difficult to manage.
Despite the challenges, being a veterinarian is a rewarding career that allows individuals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and their families. It requires dedication, compassion, and a deep love for animals, but for those who are up to the challenge, it can be an incredibly fulfilling career.
Vetevate for veterinarians
The Vetevate website is a valuable resource for veterinarians who are looking to grow their careers in animal health and wellness. Below are some ways that the website can help veterinarians achieve their professional goals:
Job search tools
The Vetevate website provides a comprehensive job search platform that allows veterinarians to search for job openings in their area of specialization. The website includes filters that allow job seekers to refine their search by location, job type, experience level, and more. This can help veterinarians find job opportunities that align with their interests, skills, and career goals.
Career resources
The Vetevate website also provides a range of career resources that can help veterinarians develop their skills and advance their careers. These resources include articles on veterinary topics, career advice, and educational resources. For example, veterinarians can access information on continuing education opportunities, professional development programs, and industry trends.
Networking opportunities
The Vetevate website also provides networking opportunities for veterinarians who are looking to expand their professional contacts. Job seekers can connect with employers and other professionals in the industry through the website’s job listings and career resources. This can help veterinarians build relationships with potential employers, colleagues, and mentors, which can be valuable for career advancement and professional growth.
Industry insights
The Vetevate website also provides insights into the veterinary industry, including trends, challenges, and opportunities. This can help veterinarians stay informed about developments in the industry and make informed decisions about their career paths. For example, the website may provide information on emerging areas of specialization or job opportunities in specific regions or industries.
Resume and cover letter support
The Vetevate website also provides resources for creating effective resumes and cover letters that can help veterinarians stand out in the job market. The website may offer tips and advice on crafting a strong resume, including highlighting relevant skills and experience, formatting and layout, and tailoring the document to the job opening. Similarly, the website may offer guidance on crafting a compelling cover letter that emphasizes the candidate’s qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.
The Vetevate website is a valuable resource for veterinarians who are looking to grow their careers in animal health and wellness. The website provides job search tools, career resources, networking opportunities, industry insights, and resume and cover letter support that can help veterinarians achieve their professional goals. By leveraging the resources available on the Vetevate website, veterinarians can take their careers to the next level and achieve success in their chosen field.
