There’s more to being a Veterinarian than treating sick animals!
Being a veterinarian is more than just treating sick animals! Providing great customer service, assisting with the personal and professional development of colleagues and nursing staff, consoling owners and assisting in the development of a sustainable business are just a handful of the activities that Veterinarians are expected to do today.
When a graduate Veterinarian finishes at university they have been trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent health problems in not only pets, but native wildlife, exotic animals, and domestic livestock.
There are two main duties of a veterinarian. One to examine and assess the illness or injury suffered by the animal, then to decide on a possible treatment. And two, to educate and medicate animals with preventative treatments such as vaccines, special diets, and more.
To assist in diagnosis, the collection and examination of tissues, faeces, blood, urine and other fluids is often carried out. They treat their patients using a range of general medical techniques, such as vaccination, acupuncture and/or surgery.
Talking to the Humans - Not Just Talking To the Animals
As well as being able to relate to humans, a good small animal veterinarian needs to be able to communicate and relate with people effectively. Much of a veterinarian’s time is spent discussing pet’s wellness with owners and working in a tight-knit team of healthcare professionals.
Every day is different, whilst some may run smoothly and efficiently a Veterinarian also needs to be able to manage unpredictable workflow. When the waiting room is filled with clients, and an emergency case walks through the door, or you need to spend extra time with a grieving client, a Veterinarian needs the patience, organisation and decision making skills to make critical decisions with little room for error.
Hard work and perseverance!
Entrance into the university degree is highly competitive. Due to the difficult nature of entry into this course, it is beneficial to undertake work experience as it shows interest and commitment to the course.
Becoming a Vet in Queensland
The Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) is offered at The University of Queensland and is a five year course. Minimum education requirements for entrance include sound achievement or higher in Queensland Year 12 (or equivalent in other States) prerequisite subjects English, Chemistry, Maths 1/B & Physics (ITI 98.75).
For more information visit University of Queensland
On completion of the Bachelor's degree, you are eligible to register with the Veterinary Surgeons' Board to practise as a fully qualified veterinarian.