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Should I start my path in veterinary in highschool without going to a school that teaches me those skills?
When should I start my veterinary career? Im currently in 8th going to high school in september.
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Jenna Kashcheeva’s Answer
Hey Abril,
If you want to become a veterinarian, you will need to go to a veterinary school to develop skills that you won't be able to gain on the job, e.g. surgical operations. Veterinarians are animal medical practitioners, so you will have to get formal education to provide this type of care; imagine being treated by a doctor who hasn't been trained properly.
On a side note, you will have to get prepared to deal with people who lost their pets, making tough decisions, and a lot of other things that can be hard to bear. This is a great website that can help you get a better understanding of whether this career fits you well before you decide to pursue it: https://iwanttobeaveterinarian.org/
You can also volunteer for animal shelters during the summer. It's not the same as being a vet but you will be able to gain some practice working with animals and make meaningful connections that might be helpful for your career in the future.
If you want to become a veterinarian, you will need to go to a veterinary school to develop skills that you won't be able to gain on the job, e.g. surgical operations. Veterinarians are animal medical practitioners, so you will have to get formal education to provide this type of care; imagine being treated by a doctor who hasn't been trained properly.
On a side note, you will have to get prepared to deal with people who lost their pets, making tough decisions, and a lot of other things that can be hard to bear. This is a great website that can help you get a better understanding of whether this career fits you well before you decide to pursue it: https://iwanttobeaveterinarian.org/
You can also volunteer for animal shelters during the summer. It's not the same as being a vet but you will be able to gain some practice working with animals and make meaningful connections that might be helpful for your career in the future.
Thanks for the advice.
Abril
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
To get a license for practising veterinary consultation a license, a degree and a relevant work experience is crucial. You may get involve with some NGOs or social welfare organizations but they too demand a certain level of qualifications.
So, without a degree veterinary is impossible. You'll deal with life l. Believe me it's a huge responsibility.
And if you have a genuine interest in veterinary then go for higher education in this field.
So, without a degree veterinary is impossible. You'll deal with life l. Believe me it's a huge responsibility.
And if you have a genuine interest in veterinary then go for higher education in this field.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Abril
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
At your stage in education, I would focus on your math and science skills/knowledge and set goals for getting admitted to an undergraduate program after you graduate from high school. It might be beneficial at this point as well to get exposure to the veterinary profession through volunteering at an animal clinic or shelter so you can decide if this is a career choice that you would like to pursue. In college, you would need to take several prerequisite classes in order to even apply to a school of veterinary medicine however, you can major in any subject that you would like. Once accepted to veterinary school, that is a 4 year program in addition to your undergraduate education.
Thank you for the advice.
Abril
Updated
Keyana’s Answer
Hey there! 😊 It's great that you're interested in the veterinary field! I'd suggest having a chat with your school counselor to find out about classes and opportunities that will give you a better understanding of the field. For instance, Banfield Pet Hospital provides programs like "The NextVet" where students can experience firsthand what it's like working in a pet hospital. Additionally, volunteering at local shelters is not only rewarding but also looks fantastic on your resume! Good luck on your journey! 🐾
Updated
Lyssa’s Answer
I think it is awesome you already have an idea of what you are going to be after high school. Take any and all animal related courses while you are in school. Then I recommend volunteering or working in a veterinary clinic. Usually that means starting as a kennel staff member. Then as you get more experience you can move up. You can also learn how to be a veterinary assistant through various online programs. Then when out of high school you can go to school for a veterinary technician program. Then after working for a while you can decide if vet tech is for you or if you still want to go further by becoming a veterinarian.
Vet tech = minimum 2 yr degree
Veterinarian = 8+ years of college/university & internships
Vet tech = minimum 2 yr degree
Veterinarian = 8+ years of college/university & internships