How to Become a Pet Vet

The term veterinarian covers a broad range of specialties, from doctors working with elephants to those with mice, as well as performing services that may be as simple as giving a shot or as complex as replacing a hip. The thing that all veterinarians have in common is a love for and desire to help animals. If you share these qualities, you may want to consider being a pet vet.

1. Decide what type of pet vet you want to be. Some veterinarians specialize in large animals, whereas others may work with small animals or exotic pets. The type of vet you are may also determine what your work environment will be like. Working with large animals may require that you visit farms and stables, whereas small animal veterinarians generally work out of a clinic.


2. Gain experience working with animals. FFA, 4-H, and other animal-based organizations are all great ways to get valuable skills and knowledge.


3. Volunteer at a local animal shelter or job shadow at a veterinary clinic to gain experience with animals. Some veterinary schools require that you have at least one letter of recommendation from a veterinarian. Volunteering or job shadowing are great ways to get to know veterinarians so that they will be able to write stellar letters for you


4. Fulfill course requirements for veterinary school as an undergraduate. Most veterinary schools require that you have biology with lab, inorganic chemistry with lab, organic chemistry with lab, genetics, biochemistry, physics with lab, and statistics. Course electives such as physiology, anatomy, microbiology, immunology and animal science are recommended. The major you choose is not as important as having all of the required classes. You can major in English if you desire, as long as you also take the required courses.


5. Apply for veterinary school. This will involve filling out applications, sending your official transcripts, studying for and taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and getting letters of recommendation. Applications can be expensive, so make sure you research which schools you are interested in and only apply to those that you are serious about.


6. Accept and partake in any interviews that are offered to you. Not all veterinary schools ask for interviews, but some may request a meeting. Prepare by looking over interview questions and complete a mock interview with someone.


7. Review your acceptances and choose the school that best fits you. You will most likely be spending four years of your life there, so it is important that the school is appropriate for you.