Veterinary surgeons (vets) diagnose and treat animals that are ill or injured, including domestic pets, farm animals, zoo animals and horses. They prescribe medicines, use anaesthetics and x-rays and carry out surgery.
You could be:
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
The average starting salary for newly qualified vets in the UK is around £32,000 a year. This may include allowances for accommodation, a car and fuel and for professional fees. With experience and training this can increase to between £40,000 and £55,000, with senior partners earning up to around £70,000 a year.
Workforce Employment Status
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You could work in private practice, an animal welfare society such as the PDSA (People's Dispensary for Sick Animals), a zoo or wildlife park, a research centre or a university veterinary school.
Workforce Education Levels (UK)
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Employment
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You need to have:
You should not be squeamish, as you will have to:
Read the excellent leaflet produced by the RCVS, 'Veterinary Science... for all: All Walks of Life', for more information. You can download it free from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons website.
The Natural Sciences Admissions Assessment (NSAA) is an assessment test taken by applicants for certain courses, including veterinary medicine, at the University of Cambridge. Applicants must apply to take the test by 15 October in the year prior to entry. The test takes place late October each year. Visit the Cambridge Assessment Admissions Test website for detailed information.
Courtesy of Enterprise Foundation South West
The following organisations may be able to provide further information.
British Veterinary Association (BVA)
Tel: 020 7636 6541
E-mail:
bvahq@bva.co.uk
Website:
http://www.bva.co.uk/
Twitter:
@BritishVets
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/britishvets
People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA)
Tel: 0800 917 2509
Website:
http://www.pdsa.org.uk/
Twitter:
@PDSA_HQ
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pdsa
For opportunities in voluntary work. There are PDSA centres and contact points throughout the country. By telephoning the Enquiry Freephone, you can be put in touch with the PDSA locally.
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS)
Tel: 020 7222 2001
E-mail:
info@rcvs.org.uk
Website:
http://www.rcvs.org.uk/
Twitter:
@theRCVS
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/thercvs/