Thinking about shaking up your career in veterinary medicine? Or maybe you’re just starting out and want to know what’s out there beyond the classic clinic gig. Either way, you’re in the right place — veterinarian jobs come in more flavors than a bag of dog treats, and the opportunities are growing faster than a puppy on a growth spurt. Whether you’re curious about relief veterinarian jobs, specialty paths, or just want to know what your next hop could be, let’s dig in and sniff out the details together.
Why veterinarian jobs are having a moment
Veterinary medicine isn’t just a job — it’s a calling, a community, and, lately, one of the hottest career tickets in the United States. If you’ve noticed more job postings lately, you’re not imagining things. In fact, veterinarians just leapt to the top of Indeed’s “Best Jobs for 2025” list, thanks to a surge in demand for pet care and a growing appreciation for animal health. It’s a golden era for animal lovers who want to make a difference — and maybe snag some work-life balance along the way.
But with all this growth, the field is also evolving. New roles, flexible schedules, and specialized jobs are popping up everywhere. So, whether you’re a seasoned Vet or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to look at your options — or to try something new if you’re feeling a little “been there, chewed that.”
The main types of veterinarian jobs (No, it’s not just cats and dogs)
Veterinarian jobs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s a closer look at the most common — and some not-so-common — paths you can take:
Small animal veterinarians
This is the classic clinic role most folks picture: caring for dogs, cats, and the occasional rabbit or guinea pig. Small animal Vets handle check-ups, vaccinations, surgeries, and the full spectrum of pet health. You’ll build relationships with pet parents and see patients grow up — and maybe even treat a few generations of the same family pets. These jobs are everywhere, from bustling city clinics to cozy suburban practices.
What’s a typical day like?
You’ll juggle appointments, surgeries, and lots of client questions. Expect to see everything from routine wellness visits to emergencies (yep, that “my dog ate chocolate” call is real).
How to get started:
You’ll need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, a state license, and a love for pets of all shapes and sizes.
Relief veterinarian jobs
If you’re the type who likes to keep things fresh — or you just want to skip the office politics — relief veterinarian jobs might be your jam. Relief Vets fill in at clinics and hospitals when regular staff are out, covering vacations, sick days, or busy seasons. Think of it as the ultimate “choose your own adventure” in veterinary medicine.
Why go relief?
- Flexibility: Set your own schedule and work when you want
- Variety: Try out different clinics, teams, and even specialties
- Independence: Be your own boss — invoice, network, and pick your gigs
What do you need?
A DVM degree and a license in each state where you work. For some shifts, you’ll also need DEA Registration and the right Controlled Substance Registration. You can see all the opportunities in your area by signing up for Roo and hitting “Search Shifts.”
What’s it really like?
You’ll walk into new clinics, meet new teams, and adapt on the fly. It’s perfect for folks who like a little unpredictability — and maybe want to avoid long-term contracts.
Veterinary specialists
If you’re the kind of person who likes to dig deep (think: “let’s find out exactly what’s going on with this heart murmur”), specialization could be your next step. Veterinary specialists focus on areas like surgery, cardiology, dermatology, oncology, and more. These roles require extra training — usually a residency and board certification — but they open doors to complex cases and higher earning potential.
A day in the life:
You’ll handle referrals from general practice Vets, work with advanced equipment, and often collaborate with other specialists. It’s like being the “Vet’s Vet.”
How to get there:
After your DVM, you’ll need to complete a residency and pass board exams in your chosen specialty.
Emergency and critical care veterinarians
If you thrive on adrenaline and don’t mind a little chaos, emergency and critical care might be your calling. These Vets handle urgent cases — think hit-by-car injuries, sudden illnesses, and late-night emergencies.
What to expect:
- Unpredictable hours (nights, weekends, holidays)
- Fast-paced decision making
- Teamwork with techs, specialists, and sometimes surgeons
How to break in:
Many emergency hospitals offer mentorship for new grads, but experience and a cool head under pressure are key.
Zoo and wildlife veterinarians
Love the idea of working with animals that don’t fit in a carrier? Zoo and wildlife Vets care for everything from lions to lizards, often in zoos, sanctuaries, or conservation programs. These jobs are rare and competitive, but they’re a dream for animal lovers who want to make a difference in conservation.
Typical day:
You might be darting a big cat for a health check, treating an injured eagle, or consulting on habitat design.
Getting started:
Experience with exotics, internships, and sometimes advanced degrees in wildlife medicine help you stand out.
Veterinary researchers and educators
Not all Vets wear stethoscopes — some wear lab coats or stand at the front of a classroom. Veterinary researchers work on everything from new treatments to public health, while educators train the next generation of Vets and Techs.
Day-to-day:
You could be running experiments, analyzing data, or lecturing students. If you love science and teaching, this could be your sweet spot.
How to jump in:
Advanced degrees (like a PhD or master’s) are often required, especially for research-heavy roles.
Food safety and public health veterinarians
If you’re passionate about keeping both animals and people healthy, food safety and public health roles are worth a look. These Vets inspect food production, monitor disease outbreaks, and help shape policies that protect communities.
What’s the job like?
You’ll work with government agencies, food producers, or research groups. It’s a great fit for detail-oriented folks who want to make a big impact behind the scenes.
What about large animal vets?
While large animal work is iconic, Roo focuses mainly on small animal and companion animal care — so you won’t find much about cattle calls here. But if you’re curious, large animal Vets do everything from herd health to emergency surgery on farms and ranches. It’s tough, rewarding work — just not Roo’s main arena.
The rise of relief veterinarian jobs (and why everyone’s talking about them)
Let’s talk about relief veterinarian jobs — because they’re changing the game for Vets who want more freedom, less burnout, and a chance to try new things without a long-term commitment. Relief gigs are booming, especially as clinics scramble to cover gaps and Vets look for a better work-life balance.
Why are relief jobs so popular?
- Flexibility: Pick your shifts, work in different clinics, and take time off when you need it
- Variety: No two days (or clinics) are the same
- Independence: Set your rates, manage your own business, and skip the office drama
What’s the catch?
You’ll need to stay organized — juggling licenses, paperwork, and networking. You’re also responsible for your own benefits and taxes. But for many Vets, the trade-off is worth it.
Ready to hop into relief work? Check out Roo’s veterinarian jobs page to see what’s available in your area.
Where do veterinarians work? (Hint: It’s not just clinics)
Veterinarian jobs can take you all over the map — literally and figuratively. Here’s where you’ll find Vets making a difference:
- Private practices (the classic clinic setting)
- Emergency and specialty hospitals
- Animal shelters and rescue organizations
- Zoos, aquariums, and wildlife centers
- Research labs and universities
- Public health agencies and food inspection services
- Telemedicine (yes, you can help pets from your couch!)
And with the rise of remote and hybrid roles, you might even find yourself working from home — in scrubs, of course.
What skills do you need for veterinarian jobs?
Sure, you need a DVM degree and a license. But what else makes a great Vet? Here’s what really counts:
- Communication: Explaining complex stuff in simple terms (and sometimes delivering tough news)
- Adaptability: Especially for relief Vets who walk into new clinics every week
- Problem-solving: Diagnosing a mystery illness or figuring out why Mr. Whiskers won’t eat
- Compassion: For pets, pet parents, and your fellow team members
- Organization: Keeping records, managing schedules, and remembering which dog is allergic to chicken
If you’re thinking about relief veterinarian jobs, add “quick learner” and “people person” to the list — you’ll need both.
How to grow your career (without burning out)
Veterinary medicine can be tough — long hours, emotional cases, and the occasional “surprise” from a nervous dog. But there are ways to keep your career hopping along happily:
- Try relief work to find your ideal schedule and clinic culture
- Pursue specialties or advanced certifications if you love a particular area
- Attend Roo’s upcoming events for networking and continuing education
- Look into leadership roles, like medical director or practice owner, if you want to shape clinic culture
- Consider teaching, research, or public health for a change of pace
And don’t forget — Roo’s healthcare stipend covers your pets’ medical needs, too. Because your furry family deserves the best care, just like you do.
How to transition into a new veterinarian job
Thinking about making a move? Here’s how to hop into a new role with confidence:
- Assess your skills: What do you love about your current job? What would you change?
- Update your credentials: Make sure your licenses and certifications are current — especially if you’re going relief.
- Network: Attend industry events, join online groups, and connect with fellow Vets on LinkedIn.
- Check out job boards: Roo’s veterinarian jobs page is a great place to start.
- Consider a mentor: Reach out to someone who’s already in the role you want — most Vets are happy to share advice (and maybe a few funny stories).
Professional development and resources
Veterinary medicine is always evolving, and staying sharp is key. Here’s how to keep your skills fresh:
- Attend free CE events to learn new techniques and meet other animal lovers
- Read up on the latest research in JAVMA and Clinician’s Brief
- Explore leadership training or business courses if you’re eyeing management roles
- Take advantage of Roo’s resources for career growth and flexible shift options
Final thoughts: Your next hop in veterinary medicine
Veterinarian jobs are more than just a paycheck — they’re a way to make a difference for animals, families, and communities. Whether you’re dreaming of relief veterinarian jobs, thinking about a specialty, or just want to try something new, there’s never been a better time to hop into your next adventure.
Ready to see what’s out there? Start your search with Roo — we’re here to help you find your perfect fit, one paw print at a time.
FAQs: Let’s get your questions answered
What are the main types of veterinarian jobs?
- Small animal veterinarian
- Relief veterinarian
- Veterinary specialist
- Emergency and critical care veterinarian
- Zoo and wildlife veterinarian
- Veterinary researcher or educator
- Food safety and public health veterinarian
What do I need to work as a relief veterinarian?
You’ll need a DVM degree, a state license for each state you work in, and sometimes DEA Registration plus the right Controlled Substance Registration for certain shifts.
What’s the average salary for veterinarians in the U.S.?
Most veterinarians earn between $120,000 and $140,000 per year, with specialists and experienced Vets earning more. Relief Vets often set their own rates per shift.
What are the perks of relief veterinarian jobs?
- Flexible schedule
- Variety of workplaces
- Independence
What skills help veterinarians succeed?
Strong communication, adaptability, problem-solving, compassion, and organization.