How to Become a Veterinary Specialist

As with many positions in the healthcare profession, choosing to become a veterinary specialist will take time and effort. One must have the necessary skills to successfully carry out the duties of the job. A veterinary specialist must have patience, determination and a love for animals.

1. Volunteer. Visit your local animal shelter to see if they have any volunteering positions. This will give you up close and personal experiences with animals that you will be potentially working with in the future. Volunteering is a way for you to give back to the community and be around the animals you love. Learn as much as possible with this hands on experience before you begin any coursework toward your career.

2. Choose a college. Do your research on which colleges offer the best veterinary programs. If you want to jump in your field as soon as possible, there are two year programs available. However, if you want to complete more coursework and potentially obtain a better job, choose a four year degree. Coursework that will be offered may include animal nutrition, animal physiology and anatomy. In most cases you will have to take core classes before you begin specialized coursework in the field. Your job as a veterinary specialist may require continuing education. Be sure to stay abreast on the educational requirements of your career.

3. Compile your resume. Get started on your resume before you graduate your veterinary program so that you can have a heads up on landing a job. Get recommendation letters from your teachers. Use online resume templates as guides on how to format your resume for optimal results. Include your volunteer experience on your resume. Once the resume is complete, begin distributing it to hiring veterinary offices in your area.