What's it like being a vet? Discover the challenges and rewards.

Question

I am a high school student who wants to become a veterinarian and I have to do a school project about the career. I would really appreciate it if you could answer some of these questions. What do you like/dislike most about your job? What types of animals do you find working with the most interesting? Which animals are easiest/hardest to treat? What makes you a good vet? What is the most difficult situation you’ve faced in your career? How did you handle it? What are the biggest challenges. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 10 years and 8 months old | 10 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I'd be happy to answer your questions! What I like most about my job is helping sick animals. I work primarily for a home euthanasia service, and while it seems sad that I put animals to sleep, I find it very rewarding to help ease their pain and suffering. What I dislike most is seeing abused animals. It really hurts to see them in terrible conditions. I also love working with horses, and do that as a relief job (meaning I fill in as needed). I would say they are the most interesting work with as a vet. Each animal has their own difficulties with treating them, so I couldn't honestly pick one that is easier or harder. They all present their own difficulties when working with them. I think what makes me a good vet is my compassion and love for animals. The most difficult situation I've faced so far is putting to sleep an extremely aggressive and sick old cat that I couldn't even touch without her trying to bite and scratch me. I had a vet student along with me seeing what I did, and luckily I had her to help catch this cat and hold her so I could give sedation. It took a very long time to catch her, and I had many deep scratches at the end of it! The biggest challenge of being a vet is having a balanced personal and work life. Being a vet is not a 9-5 job, it's long hours and on call, and that makes it hard to have time with family and friends. It's very important, however, to make sure you do have time to yourself and with your family.

What's it like being a vet? Discover the challenges and rewards.

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What undergraduate major to become a vet, and how long is vet school?

How can I make my vet school application stand out and get accepted?

Do I need perfect grades and animal experience for vet school?

What steps can I take in high school to become a veterinarian?

I want to be a vet. What high school subjects should I take?

What types of jobs help care for our pets at a veterinary clinic?

Share