How Much Do Vets Make?

How Much Do Vets Make?  

As a vet, you help animals stay happy and healthy, but have you ever wondered what kind of salary you could bring in for this important work? Being a veterinarian comes with many rewards, so the potential earnings naturally follow suit. Let’s explore what you should know about how much vets make.

What to Know About Vets’ Salaries  

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2019, veterinarians in the U.S. received an average of $96,020 per year, equivalent to an hourly average of $45.97. This number varies, however, due to geographical location, experience level, working environment, as well as the type of animals the vet works with.

For example, vets in more rural areas make slightly less on average than those living in urban areas. Different specialties of veterinary medicine can also affect a vet’s potential earnings, with specialties like radiation oncology earning more than average.

Types of Vets  

When considering a career in veterinary medicine, one should also take into account a few things about the various types of vets.

Companion Animal Vets

Companion Animal Vets work with cats, dogs, and other small animals. These vets typically work in individual clinics, examining and treating pets. Because of the sheer number of companion animals, salaries for this specialty are usually in the $50,000-$80,000 range.

Equine Vets

Equine Vets are those who specialize in horses. These vets may work in private practices, although they may also travel between stables to treat horses. Like other specialties, the potential earnings for an Equine Vet vary with experience, range from approximately $50,000 to $100,000 or more.

Wildlife Vets

Wildlife Vets work with animals living in their natural environment. These veterinarians often work with state and federal agencies, including the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect and maintain animal populations. Wildlife vets are typically paid well for their work, earning salaries between $50,000 to $100,000.

Zoo and Exotic Animal Vets

Zoo and Exotic Animal Vets work in zoos in private practice. These vets care for exotic animals such as primates and large cats. Salaries vary widely, but these vets can make anywhere from $50,000 to over $200,000.

Factors That Can Affect Veterinarians’ Earnings  

In addition to the various kinds of vets, there are some other factors that can affect vets’ potential earnings.

Geographic Location

Geographic area can affect the potential earning power of vets. In some cities and rural areas, wages are high, whereas in other locales, wages are typically lower. An examples of higher earning locales for vets is California, where the average vet salary is $122,350 per year, the highest of any state in the potential range. On the other hand, Maine has the lowest average salary of any state, at $84,630 per year.

Experience Level

Experience level has a major impact on the amount a vet earns. Veterinarians who have been practicing for three years or more can earn up to $95,000. With five or more years of experience, salaries can be as high as $95,000 to $120,000. For those with 10 or more years of experience, salaries can be up to $140,000.

Type of Practice

The type of practice a vet works in can significantly affect the salary the vet makes. A 2015 Banfield Pet Hospital survey showed that those practicing in university settings had the highest salaries at $128,183 per year, while those working in corporate practice were earning the least at $79,046.

Demand

The demand for specific types of vets can also affect the salary a vet earns. For instance, mobile vets are often in high demand, and can earn up to $120,000 per year due to their ability to provide convenience and door to door service.

Earning potential is an important factor when considering a career in veterinary medicine. As you can see, there is a wide range for veterinary salaries, depending on factors such as geographic location, experience level, type of practice, and demand. No matter your choice, you can be sure to make a difference in the lives of animals and their owners.

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