Veterinary Surgeon: Job Description, Info, & Job Openings

Do you love working with animals?

Are you interested in science and medicine?

If so, a career as a veterinary surgeon may be the perfect fit for you.

If you want to make an impact and help animals, keep reading to learn how you can become a veterinary surgeon.

Veterinary Surgeon: The Basics

As a veterinary surgeon, you play a vital role in a pet owner’s experience getting care for their pet.

Here’s all you need to know for becoming a veterinary surgeon.

What is a Veterinary Surgeon?

A veterinary surgeon is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries in animals.

Veterinary surgeons typically work in private practices.

But they may also work in zoos, wildlife parks, or other animal care facilities.

Most veterinary surgeons complete a four-year undergraduate degree in veterinary medicine, followed by a one- to two-year residency program.

During their residency, veterinary surgeons receive specialized training in surgical techniques and animal care.

What is a Veterinary Surgeon Called?

They are also known as a veterinarian.

What Does a Veterinary Surgeon Do?

As a veterinary surgeon, you would be responsible for diagnosing and treating medical conditions in animals.

This could involve anything from routine check-ups and vaccinations to emergency surgery.

You would also provide advice to pet owners on how to care for their animals and promote animal welfare.

Work Opportunities in the Veterinary Surgeon Industry

As a veterinary surgeon, you can work in zoos to help exotic animals.

You might also want to work for a private practice seeing pets.

Veterinarians also specialize in livestock or large animals.

There are a variety of career options for a veterinary surgeon.

Veterinary Surgeon Job Description

A veterinary surgeon is a medical professional who is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease in animals.

They work in a variety of settings, including private practices, zoos, and wildlife parks.

Veterinary surgeons must have a strong knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology.

They use this knowledge to diagnose illnesses and injuries, and to develop treatment plans.

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Veterinary surgeons also play a critical role in preventing disease by vaccinating animals and educating pet owners about proper animal care.

Top Veterinary Surgeon Jobs and Careers

Other animal healthcare careers related to the veterinary surgeon position include:

• Veterinary Medical Assistant
• Veterinary Technician
• Large Animal Veterinarian

Where Can a Veterinary Surgeon Work?

There are many places where a veterinary surgeon can work.

They can work in a private clinic, a hospital, a research lab, or even for the government.

What It’s Like to be a Veterinary Surgeon

As a veterinary surgeon, you’ll need to:

Understand animal husbandry, nutrition and breeding

• Be able to carry out clinical examinations
• Accurately diagnose illnesses and injuries
• Develop treatment plans
• Perform surgery
• Prescribe medication
• Educate pet owners on how to care for their animals

You’ll also need to be able to work long hours, as you’ll often be on call in case of emergencies.

The job can be emotionally demanding, as you’ll see sick and injured animals every day, and sometimes have to euthanize them.

It’s a physically demanding job too, as you’ll be on your feet for long periods of time and may have to lift heavy animals.

Is Being a Veterinary Surgeon Hard?

Yes, it can be hard. The job of a veterinary surgeon is not an easy one.

It requires long hours, dedication, and a passion for helping animals.

But, it can be a gratifying career.

Is a Veterinary Surgeon Job Stressful?

Working as a veterinary surgeon can be an enriching experience.

However, it can also be a very stressful job.

Many things can go wrong during the surgery, and even the most experienced surgeons can make mistakes.

This can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety.

Common Veterinary Surgeon Work Day

A typical work day for a veterinary surgeon may include performing surgeries, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, and providing other medical care.

They may also consult with owners about their animal’s health, advice on preventive care measures, and provide guidance on nutrition and exercise.

Veterinary Surgeon Tasks & Duties

A typical day in the life of a veterinary surgeon may include:

• Conducting initial examinations of animals brought in by owners or other veterinarians
• Anesthetizing animals before surgery
• Performing surgical procedures on animals, such as spaying or neutering, repairing fractures, and performing abdominal surgery
• Monitoring animals during and after surgery, including administering pain medication
• Providing general medical care for animals, such as vaccinations, check-ups, and treatment for minor injuries or illnesses

Veterinary Surgeon Work Hours & Schedule

Most veterinary surgeons work full time, and some may work evenings or weekends to accommodate their patients’ needs.

They typically work in private clinics or hospitals, although some may travel to farms or other locations to provide care.

Veterinary Surgeon Dress Code

The dress code usually includes scrubs, gloves, and a lab coat.

Veterinary surgeons must also wear closed-toe shoes and have their hair removed from their faces.

Does This Career Field Embrace Work/Life Balance?

Many vets do find ways to achieve a good work/life balance.

It is often said that the best way to achieve this balance is to love what you do.

When you have a passion for your career, it can make the long hours and demanding work more bearable.

Veterinary Surgeon Salary & Income

Do Veterinary Surgeons Make Good Money?

Overall, being a veterinary surgeon is a great way to earn a good living.

Just be aware that this job has some downsides that you should consider before leaping.

How Much Do Veterinary Surgeons Make?

The median salary for a veterinary surgeon in the United States is around $125k annually.

However, with experience, a vet surgeon can earn over $200k per year.

Overview of the Veterinary Surgeon Industry

Below, we have compiled an overview of the Veterinary Surgeon industry.

Veterinary Surgeon Field: Career Progression

To be a veterinary surgeon, one must complete a four-year degree at an accredited college or university.

After completing their degree, they must attend veterinary school and pass the national licensing exam.

Once licensed, they can begin practicing veterinary medicine.

To progress in your career as a veterinary surgeon, you will need to maintain your licensure by keeping up with latest research and medical technology.

Is a Veterinary Surgeon a Good Career?

A veterinary surgeon is a promising career for those interested in helping animals.

The job is challenging, requires good organizational skills, and is rewarding.

Veterinary Surgeon Job Outlook

The job outlook for veterinary surgeons is good and is projected to see above-average growth between 2020 and 2030.

Demand for Veterinary Surgeons

A veterinary surgeon’s job outlook is very positive, as there is high demand for these professionals in animal hospitals and private practices.

Veterinary Surgeon Facts

Veterinary surgeons must have a DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) degree from an accredited veterinary school.

In addition to completing a four-year DVM program, veterinary surgeons must also complete a one-year internship and pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination.

Jobs Related to Veterinary Surgeons

Jobs related to veterinary surgeon qualifications:

• Zoo Education Manager
• Veterinary Nurse
• Farm Manager

Requirements, Skills, and Education Required for Veterinary Surgeon

Below are the skills, requirements, and education needed for becoming a veterinary surgeon.

Who Should Consider a Veterinary Surgeon Career Path?

Becoming a veterinary surgeon is long and challenging.

But if you have the dedication and commitment to help animals, then a career as a veterinary surgeon may be the perfect fit for you.

Who Should NOT Consider a Veterinary Surgeon Career Path?

Veterinary surgeons often have to deal with complex cases that can be emotionally and mentally challenging.

If you’re not prepared to handle the stress of the job, it’s probably not for you.

Is it Hard to Become a Veterinary Surgeon?

Yes and no. Becoming a veterinarian requires completing an accredited four-year veterinary program, which is not easy.

But once you have your degree, the job market for veterinarians is good.

What Do I Need to Become a Veterinary Surgeon?

If you want to be a veterinary surgeon, you’ll need to complete a four-year DVM program at an accredited college of veterinary medicine.

After graduation, you’ll need to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) in order to get a license to practice in the United States.

Requirements for Becoming a Veterinary Surgeon

You need to complete an accredited veterinary medicine program.

Upon graduation, vets must then pass a rigorous set of exams to be licensed in their state or country.

After obtaining a license, many veterinarians specialize in a particular area of medicine, such as surgery, internal medicine, or emergency and critical care.

Those who choose to specialize must complete additional training and education.

What Skills Does a Veterinary Surgeon Need?

A veterinary surgeon needs to be able to work well under pressure and have the ability to make quick decisions in emergencies.

In addition to these essential skills, you will need to have a strong knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology and experience in performing surgery.

What Education Does a Veterinary Surgeon Need?

Veterinary surgeons need to have a DVM degree from an accredited college of veterinary medicine.

In addition, to be accepted into a veterinary medicine program, students must complete a minimum of two years of undergraduate coursework at a university or college.

After graduating from a veterinary medicine program, new veterinarians must pass a state-administered licensing exam to practice.

Can You Become a Veterinary Surgeon Without a Degree?

The answer is likely no.

A veterinary surgeon is an animal doctor who requires the same education level as a human surgeon.

So, what Experience Does a Veterinary Surgeon Need?

As a veterinary surgeon, you will need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients and their pets effectively.

You will also need to be able to work well under pressure and have the ability to make quick decisions in emergency situations.

Veterinary Surgeon Education & Schooling

What is Taught in a Veterinary Surgeon Course?

Some core subjects are taught in most veterinary surgeon courses.

These include animal anatomy, physiology, and pathology.

You will also learn about surgery, both in theory and in practice.

Other subjects that you may study include pharmacology, nutrition, and animal husbandry.

How Long Does a Veterinary Surgeon Course Take?

Veterinary surgeon courses can take a few months, however veterinary surgeon school is several years.

Veterinary Surgeon Education Options and Degree Programs

Some veterinary surgeons may pursue a traditional four-year college degree in animal science or veterinary medicine and then attend veterinary medical school.

Bachelor’s Degree

Veterinary surgeons usually earn a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine, animal science, or biology.

Master’s Degree

Generally, after completing an undergraduate course of study, veterinary surgeons attend veterinary school of medicine for their graduate education.

Schools for Veterinary Surgeons

Many schools offer veterinary surgeon programs.

Some top schools include:

• Auburn University
• Texas A&M University
• Cornell University

Become a Veterinary Surgeon

If you’re interested in becoming a veterinary surgeon, there are several things you need to do.

Steps to Become a Veterinary Surgeon

First, you’ll need to earn a degree and then get your license.

After you become licensed, you can begin your career as a veterinary surgeon.

You’ll likely start out working in a small animal clinic or hospital.

But there are also opportunities to work in larger facilities, such as zoos or wildlife centers.

You may also choose to open your own private practice.

Current Career Job Openings

Current openings for veterinary surgeons include:

• BluePearl Veterinary Partners
• NVA
• Vet Seekers

Wrapping Up

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a veterinary surgeon, you must complete a rigorous education and training program.

But once you have completed the required education and training, you will be prepared to provide high-quality care to needy animals.