Veterinarian

Holland Code:

Think

Only a person who loves a challenge would take on patients who can't tell them where it hurts.

Anonymous

In A Nutshell

I examine animals to diagnose diseases and health issues across farms, ranches, and other animal care settings.

I perform medical treatments, including vaccinations and surgeries, to help animals recover from illness or injury.

I advise animal owners on feeding, housing, breeding, and handling practices to promote overall health and wellbeing.

Swipe

Potential Salary Range

$75,000 - $100,000 Annually

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta

British Columbia

Manitoba

New Brunswick

Newfoundland & Labrador

Nova Scotia

Nunavut

NWT

Northwest Territories

Ontario

PEI

Prince Edward Island

Quebec

Saskwatchewan

Yukon Territories

I provide care to most animals in the clinic with the support of a dedicated team who help maintain a safe and sterile environment. I also travel to farms and ranches for on-site visits, where every day brings new challenges and hands-on experiences with animals in their natural settings.

Workplace

Indoor / Outdoor

Job Requirements & Duties

Diagnose injuries, illnesses, and health conditions in animals across farms, ranches, and clinics
Provide preventative care and treatments to maintain animal health and address illnesses or injuries
Create clear care plans and instructions for animal owners to support recovery and ongoing health
Carry out emergency surgeries and medical procedures when needed
Contribute to veterinary research to improve animal health and agricultural practices
Ensure adherence to animal health, welfare, and environmental protection regulations

Education & Training

Becoming a veterinarian requires completing a university degree followed by a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.

Job Outlook

Veterinarians are essential for the health and well-being of animals. Large animal veterinarians play a vital role in rural areas, supporting livestock and food production.

Related School Subjects

Science

Health Education

Career Education

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Animals Medicine Health Welfare Livestock Treatment Care Wellness

Important Skills

Critical Thinking

I use critical thinking to identify health risks and investigate animal illnesses, analyzing situations to find causes and prevent problems.

Problem Solving

Once I understand an animal’s illness or injury, I create effective treatment plans to help them recover.

Decision Making

I make quick, informed decisions during emergencies or when spotting unsafe conditions on farms, ranches, or animal facilities to protect animals and people.

Interpersonal

I communicate clearly and professionally with livestock owners, farmers, ranchers, and others in agriculture to build trust and provide the best care.

Swipe

The Best Things About This Job Are…

Working with Animals

Helps Others

Flexible Work Environment

Rewarding

Problem solving

References

AITC Canada

Disclaimer

All career information has been gathered from a variety of sources and compiled to provide a general idea as to what each career could entail. Agriculture in the Classroom Canada is committed to doing our best to ensure the information is current and reliable. However, we will not be liable for the accuracy of the information. Please contact us if you notice errors or would like to provide feedback.