Individuals who are interested in veterinary medicine should have an inquiring mind and keen powers of observation. Aptitude and interest in the biological sciences are important.

Veterinarians need a life long interest in scientific learning as well as a like and understanding of animals. Veterinarians should be able to meet, talk, and work well with a variety of people.

Veterinarians may have to euthanatize (humanely kill) an animal that is very sick or severely injured and cannot get well. When an animal dies, the veterinarian must deal with the owner's grief and loss.  Also, the veterinarian can be sued if purposely putting down a well animal.  That is killing for pleasure.

It is never easy to handle a scared or a terrified pet. But some ways of managing the fright could be:

To take Short car rides to pleasant places, such as a park can take away some of the fear of the unknown.

Speak to your owner about working with some non-stressful office visits (maybe just a quick peek in the waiting room to get a biscuit!) to help the pet be more manageable when or if the need arises. Communication with owner as to  how to handle pets could prove beneficial.

Talk with the owner about pre-visit tranquilzers or other in-office methods for a calm exam.

Choose quieter times of the day, when extra technicians are available.

Another option to avoid veterinary office stress is to find a mobile veterinarian.

The primary reward for all veterinarians is the personal satisfaction as they know they are improving the quality of life for animals and people.

Veterinarians who are employed by government agencies, laboratories, colleges, and commercial firms often have responsibility for large health programs and may manage large numbers of people. This helps the veterinarians gain a lot of experience.

Veterinarians in private practice serve a variety of animals.

Private clinical practitioners who own their own practices determine the nature of their practice and set their working hours. Because they are self-employed, most private clinical practitioners choose to work beyond normal retirement age.