Barbaro Brings Veterinarian Careers in Sharp Focus |
 |
June 19, 2006
by Gabby Hyman
gabby.hyman@healthcare-programs.com
Healthcare Programs Columnist
Human-interest stories captivate the American audience. So it should not have been so surprising in mid-May--while the country remained at war, gas prices skyrocketed, and New Orleans continued to struggle--that the top story in the media concerned a crippling injury to a racehorse. Barbaro, who had previously won the Kentucky Derby, shattered his right pastern bone into more than 20 pieces during the first seconds of the Preakness Stakes. For almost a week, the work of skilled veterinarians was revealed in sound bites across the land.
Veterinarians from the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center inserted a plate into Barbaro's ankle and set it to bone with 30 screws. Skilled veterinarians like the Widener group are in increasingly high demand across the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the nation's 28 veterinary schools only issue a limited number of veterinary degrees a year.
Veterinarian Careers, Earnings, and Schools
BLS statistics reveal that while entry requirements to veterinary schools are strict (only one in three candidates were accepted in 2004), career projections are promising. Median annual earnings in 2004 were $66,590, topping more than $118,000 for elite veterinary physicians.
Not every veterinarian degree holder works with thoroughbreds. Veterinarian schools often allow students to focus on small animals, larger animals, mixed animal groups, and equine specialties. In 2004, about 61,000 veterinarians plied their skills, with one in five working in a self-employed capacity.
Launching a Career as a Veterinarian
Each state in the union has its own licensing requirements for graduates launching veterinary careers. Once students graduate their veterinary school programs, they undertake a 3-4 year residency--mirroring the path taken by doctors who treat humans.
If recent news stories about Barbaro say anything, it's that Americans have a special place in their hearts for animals--and they expect veterinarians to work with exceptional dedication and skill.
Source
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
About the Author
Gabby Hyman has created online strategies and written content for Fortune 500 companies including eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Microsoft Encarta, Avaya, and Nissan UK.
|
Related Articles |
 |
|
|
| |
