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-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
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
