Cash, good hours among pluses for profession
When I tell people that I am going to be a veterinarian, the response is often something along the lines of, “Heh, gonna be living the good life with all that money, aren’t ’cha?” accompanied by an elbow nudge. Admittedly, this used to upset me, because I had believed all along that I chose this profession due to my passion for providing the best care possible to creatures of all kinds.
Upon further reflection, however, I realized these well-meaning folks were probably right: there is no career more lucrative than veterinary medicine.
In fact, I decided to take a break from studying for four exams to share with the public the greatest advantages of being a veterinarian.
THE BIG BUCKS
The general consensus of my peers appears to be that we were all drawn to the profession due to the financial opportunities. With only seven to ten plus years of post-secondary education required, we can go to school for the same amount of time as a medical doctor and make up to 50 per cent of their salary upon graduation!
THE EDUCATION COMMITMENT
It is also a great relief to put off home ownership until well into our thirties or forties. Watching our friends pay off hefty mortgages while we simply write monthly rental cheques reminds us how little responsibility we have. Besides, we often don’t have time to buy groceries, let alone mow the lawn, so it really works out for the better.
FLEXIBLE HOURS
A little-known fact about veterinarians is that they are averse to relaxation. Overnight ER shifts, daily skipped meals, and night calls are among the perks of the job for a category of humans who simply don’t enjoy the luxuries of a family dinner or full night’s sleep.
RESOURCEFUL CLIENTS
Veterinarians understand that clients want the very best for their animals. After the pay cheque, that is our number one priority in this profession. So when owners arrive for their appointment already saddled with a Dr. Google diagnosis, we are incredibly appreciative.
GRATITUDE
As professionals, we recognize that people are often caught off guard by the potential for their animal to get pregnant, sick, or injured. When we are unable to provide treatment or medication free of charge, we understand that any negative results are a consequence of our heartlessness.
PATIENT PLAY TIME
At the end of the 15-hour day, we’re really just like anyone else. We love to cuddle kittens and puppies, and when you discount the phone calls, appointments, treatments, surgeries, diarrhea episodes, and constant accusations of greediness, that’s all we really do, anyway.
Photo courtesy of Flickr