Veterinarians can work in a variety of environments. Those employed in private practice and skilled in working with farm animals may spend time doing house calls to farms and ranches that they service. Those working in public health departments may spend time evaluating medical emergencies for animals in a community. Veterinarians can have long hours treating their animal patients at all hours of the day and night.

Excellent Employment for Veterinarians

The employment outlook in the veterinarian field is excellent. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that this field will experience up to a 33 percent increase between now and 2018. This growth will partly be created by an increase in pet ownership in the United States. It will also be increased by pet owners being more in tune with the health needs of their pets. There will also an increase created by federal monies going into medical research that includes animal diseases.

Great Salary Potential for Vets

This field has excellent salary potential. The career is high work but very rewarding. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the average wages for veterinarians in 2008 were between $61,000 and $104,000 annually. The median salary for those employed by the federal government was about $93,000 in 2009. The lowest ten percent made around $46,000 annually, and the top ten percent made around $143,000 annually.

Great College Programs Available in the Veterinarian Field

To become a veterinarian, you must complete a 4 year graduate degree at an accredited veterinarian school of medicine. There are some great accredited veterinarian schools. Take the time to find out what their enrollment and prerequisites requirements are for getting accepted into a veterinarian program.