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Veterinarians provide health care for animals of all types. The majority work in private practices, caring for small animals, such as dogs, cats, birds, and guinea pigs. Others work with large animals, such as horses and livestock, or care for animals in zoos. The medical equipment that is available to and used by veterinarians ranges from the basic stethoscope and standard surgical instruments to sophisticated radiographic and ultrasound equipment.

In a private practice, expect to work fifty or more hours each week. Veterinarians at emergency clinics work nights and weekends, and some private-practice veterinarians work at least one weekend day and are on call outside regular office hours.

Sarah Charney, DVM, radiation oncology and oncology specialist, prepares a Shetland Sheepdog for the CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery treatment for tumors.

While it’s satisfying to return sick or injured animals to health and help keep pets and working animals at the peak of wellness, the life of a veterinarian can be emotionally stressful. Veterinarians must deal with anxious owners, help people manage the costs of pet care, and euthanize animals that are very old or cannot be helped medically. The job can also be physically dangerous. Veterinarians are sometimes scratched, bitten, or otherwise injured by aggressive, frightened, or hurt animals, although advances in tranquilizers and technology make it easier to work with large or fractious animals. Despite these challenges, most people who become veterinarians find working with and caring for animals to be rewarding.

Maintaining a balance between their professional lives and their home lives is crucial for veterinarians and everyone else in the working world, says Sally Perea, DVM. “I think this is a personal choice, and I have made it a priority to have good balance in my life. It is easy for anybody in any career to make work their life. However, if you prioritize your life correctly, you should be able to create a good balance.”