Career Advice

What does an Associate Veterinarian do?

Discover the cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that will shape the web development landscape in the coming year.

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert
4 min read
Published

An Associate Veterinarian is a licensed professional who diagnoses and treats medical conditions and diseases of animals.

Associate Veterinarian job duties include:

  • Examine animals to detect and determine the nature of diseases or injuries
  • Prescribe and administer medications, vaccinations, serums, and other treatments
  • Perform surgeries on animals, as necessary
  • Advise animal owners on proper nutrition, exercise, and general care
  • Keep records of animal health and treatments
  • Work with animal breeders to select and mate healthy animals
  • Inspect food and water supplies to ensure they meet safety standards
  • Investigate reports of neglected or abused animals
  • Euthanize animals when necessary

Associate Veterinarian Job Requirements

An Associate Veterinarian typically needs a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary school, as well as a state license. Many states require continuing education for veterinarians to maintain their licenses. Some Associate Veterinarians may choose to specialize in a certain area of veterinary medicine, such as surgery or dentistry. In addition to formal education and licensing, most employers also require some level of experience.

Associate Veterinarian Skills

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Able to work well under pressure
  • Good organizational skills
  • Able to multitask
  • Detail oriented
  • Problem solving skills
  • Good people skills
  • Compassionate
  • Patient
  • Love of animals
  • Strong stomach

Related: Top Associate Veterinarian Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Associate Veterinarian

There are many ways to become an Associate Veterinarian. The most common way is to have a degree in Veterinary Medicine from an accredited college of veterinary medicine, and then to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). After passing the NAVLE, one must then complete a one-year clinical internship at a veterinary hospital. Once the internship is completed, the individual can then take the state licensing examination in order to become licensed to practice veterinary medicine.

Related: Associate Veterinarian Resume Example

Related: Associate Veterinarian Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Brenna Goyette

Brenna Goyette

Certified Professional Resume Writer & Career Expert

Passionate about helping professionals advance their careers.

#CareerAdvice#Resume#JobSearch#Professional#Career