Veterinarian duties and responsibilities
A Veterinarian is in charge of ensuring animals under their care are in good health. Some of the duties and responsibilities of Veterinarians include:
- Examining animals and diagnosing any of their medical issues
- Performing laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging to diagnose animal medical conditions
- Performing surgery, dressing and treating wounds, and prescribing relevant medication to the animals
- Advocating for routine vaccinations by administering vaccines and educating animal owners on the best diets and lifestyle choices for their pets
- Improving dental health for animals by conducting routine checkups, cleaning, and teeth extraction
- Spaying and neutering animals
- Euthanizing animals when necessary
- Maintaining clear and detailed medical records
Veterinarian skills and qualifications
Veterinarians need to be friendly, calm, and professional. Sometimes a pet brought in can be frantic, and the vet should be able to calm the patient. Veterinarian skills and qualifications include:
- Able to make decisions regarding the welfare of animals
- Excellent social and communication skills for dealing with animal owners
- Necessary licencing to practice
- Able to deal with uncooperative animals and owners
- Performing medical tests and diagnostic imaging techniques
- Understanding local and regional laws about animals and their welfare
- Giving appropriate advice to pet owners regarding their animals, such as providing them with dietary recommendations
Veterinarian experience requirements
Veterinarian candidates should have prior experience working with animals in a veterinary role or other animal care related role. They should have two or more years experience working with animals. Experience as an intern or volunteer in an animal hospital, veterinary practice, or zoo is usually required.
Veterinarian educational and training requirements
Veterinarian candidates should have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Prior to earning their doctoral degree, Veterinarian candidates should have completed a bachelors degree in a relevant scientific subject. They must be certified by their provincial or territorial regulatory body. They should also have qualifications or training certifications for dealing with specific animals, especially for jobs that require dealing with exotic animals.
Veterinarian salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, Veterinarians in Canada make an average of $94,130 per year. A Veterinarian’s salary may vary depending on their location, experience, education, and the hiring company
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