Veterinary Careers & Vet Tech Guide

Your Future in Animal Healthcare Starts Here

Why Choose a Veterinary Career?

The veterinary field is more essential than ever, with over 78 million dogs and 85 million cats in U.S. households alone. With the global pet care industry expected to surpass $400 billion by 2030, demand for skilled veterinarians and veterinary technicians is skyrocketing.

Whether you dream of becoming a veterinarian, a vet tech, or working in specialized animal care, there’s a path for you.

  • Fast-growing industry – The veterinary profession is projected to grow 19% by 2031, much faster than other careers.

  • Diverse career options – From pet clinics to wildlife conservation, the opportunities are vast.

  • Deeply rewarding work – Help improve and save animal lives daily.

Discuss how specialized dog trainers can sometimes earn more than veterinary professionals, depending on services offered and clientele.

Veterinarian

  • Degree Required: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

    Time Commitment: ~8 years (4 years undergrad + 4 years vet school)

    Cost: Average tuition for veterinary school is $200,000–$300,000

    Top Veterinary Schools:

    • University of California—Davis (#1)

    • Cornell University (#2)

    • Colorado State University (#3)

    • Royal Veterinary College (UK) (#4)

    • University of Pennsylvania (#5)
      (Source: US News & World Report)

  • In order to become a licensed veterinarian, you must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE).

    State-specific licensing varies—check the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) for details.

  • Veterinarians can specialize in fields like oncology, dermatology, and even aquatic medicine!

Veterinary Technician and Assistant Careers

Vet techs and assistants plat a crucial role in animal healthcare, supporting veterinarians with lab work, patient care, and medical procedures.

  • Education: Requires an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited program.

    Certification: Most states require passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).

    Top Vet Tech Programs:

    • Purdue University

    • Penn Foster College (Online)

    • St. Petersburg College

  • Vet Tech: $36,850/year

    Specialized Vet Techs (e.g., anesthesia, surgical, dentistry): $50,000+

  • No formal degree required, but training programs are available.

    Works under vet techs and veterinarians.

    Salary: ~$29,780/year.

Career Comparison: Veterinarian vs. Dog Training & Specialized Pet Services

While veterinary careers require years of education and licensing, skilled pet trainers and pet care specialists can sometimes out-earn veterinarians and vet techs—without student debt!

 Did you know? Luxury dog trainers in major cities like New York and Los Angeles charge $200–$500 per session, making six-figure incomes without student loans!

How to Start Your Veterinary Career?

  1. Research Programs – Choose a top vet school or vet tech program.

  2. Gain Experience – Volunteer at animal shelters or intern at vet clinics.

  3. Earn Certifications – Ensure you pass your licensing exams.

  4. Consider Specialization – Explore high-demand specialties like emergency medicine or rehabilitation.

Take the First Step - Enroll in our Free Course!

With rising demand for animal healthcare professionals, a career as a veterinarian or vet tech is a rewarding choice—but it’s not the only high-paying pet career! Whether you choose veterinary school or an alternative pet service career, we’re here to help you succeed.

Join thousands of animal lovers already making a difference—sign up for our FREE course and start your journey today!

Want to explore veterinary careers? Our FREE course covers:

  • Introduction to veterinary medicine

  • Vet tech and assistant roles

  • Alternative high-paying pet careers

  • How to start with minimal student debt