What does a typical day for a veterinarian consist of and is it worth the time spent in school ?
In the future i hope to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and was interested in what they do on a daily basis or what a day for them would look like. Also what makes them stick with the job and causes them to love it. Since it takes years to be able to work as a vet, i wanted to know if its worth it. #veterinary
2 answers
Courtney’s Answer
When I did my internship at a vet clinic, the Vet spent 1 day a week doing surgeries (mostly spay and neuters). The rest of the days she did a mixture of routine checkups for meds; diagnosing/treating sick pets; euthanizing pets; and dental cleanings.
To be a DVM, you first get your Bachelor's Degree. After that you go for your DVM for a total of 8-9 years in college. You can do 2 years at a Junior College which will save you about $54,000, but after your Associates Degree you'll need to go to a 4-year college to get your Bachelor's. Assuming all you're prior classes will transfer to your 4-year college, you're looking at another $60,000 for those remaining 2 years.
After your Bachelor's Degree you'll spend another $120,000+ getting your DVM. Basically, you're looking at $186,000 for a DVM if you spend your 1st two years in a jr. college; or $240,000+ if you go straight into a 4 year college. Of course, this is without grants or scholarships. The typical pay for Vets in our area is $80,000/year so compare that to the potential $186,000-$240,000 in student loans that you'll graduate owing. If you can continue living at home with no expenses, you might be able to get your loans paid off in 5 years working as a vet. So....your looking at 8-9 years in school + 5 more years living at home and working to pay for your DVM.
In my eyes, the only way it makes sense to become a Vet is if you can get your education paid for with scholarships and grants, or if your parents can pay for your education. But make sure it's your passion because you're going to be in school for a while.
I'm a zookeeper, and I love it!
Suzanne’s Answer
The day in the life of a veterinarian depends on what type of practice you work in, small animal will be exams, treatments, surgery mainly dogs and cats in an office setting. Large or farm animals is the same but it involves driving to the farms and more physical labor. Becoming a veterinarian is a life style that is loved so learning what you love to do is worth the time in school!!
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