Veterinarians
Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
SOC: 29-1131.00
Common Job Titles
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Emergency Veterinarian (Emergency Vet)
- Small Animal Veterinarian (Small Animal Vet)
- Veterinary Medicine Doctor (DVM)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate complex diagnostic findings from clinical examinations, laboratory results, and imaging studies in clinical veterinary practice, integrating knowledge of animal biology and disease pathology.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate comprehensive treatment plans balancing clinical efficacy, client resources, and animal welfare collaborating with veterinary technicians and specialists in multi-disciplinary cases.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize current veterinary research and scientific literature into clinical practice through continuous professional development and evidence-based medicine application.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze patient symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic data to formulate differential diagnoses across diverse animal species, considering species-specific physiological variations.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform surgical procedures including soft tissue and orthopedic operations using specialized veterinary surgical instruments and equipment, maintaining sterile technique.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate advanced diagnostic imaging equipment including ultrasound, radiography, CT, and MRI systems following radiation safety protocols and positioning guidelines for various animal species.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute dental procedures including extractions, prophylaxis, and restorative treatments using specialized veterinary dental instruments and equipment on companion animals.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate compassionate patient care with evidence-based treatment protocols when communicating with pet owners about difficult diagnoses, treatment options, and end-of-life decisions.Proficient
- Hands-onManipulate animal restraint and handling techniques ensuring safety for both animals and personnel across species including companion animals, livestock, and exotic species.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate animal welfare standards and public health measures when educating clients about preventive care, zoonotic diseases, and responsible animal ownership.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform emergency and critical care interventions including resuscitation, fluid therapy, and airway management using specialized equipment such as anesthesia machines, ventilators, and monitoring devices under time-critical conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess laboratory samples and diagnostic test results including hematology, biochemistry, and microbiology using automated analyzers and microscopy to detect pathological conditions.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Veterinarians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
80,630
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $70,350. 25th percentile: U.S. $98,420. 50th percentile: U.S. $125,510. 75th percentile: U.S. $161,610. 90th percentile: U.S. $212,890. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $70,350 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $212,890 |
| Workers on average earn | $140,270 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Medicine and Dentistry4.7/5
- Biology4.7/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
- English Language4.3/5
- Mathematics3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- American Data Systems PAWS Veterinary Practice Management
- Complete Clinic
- Eklin Information Systems VIA
- Henry Schein ImproMed
- IDEXX Laboratories IDEXX Cornerstone
- IDEXX Laboratories IDEXX VPM
- ImproMed Infinity
- InformaVet ALIS-VET
Tools & Equipment
- Ambu bags
- Angiography catheters
- Animal catching poles
- Animal electrocardiograph ECG units
- Animal snares
- Arterial line catheters
- Arthroscopic surgical equipment
- Aspiration catheters