Vet school career decline

<p>Several questions...if you know any, thanks!</p>

<ol>
<li><p>From what I hear, there is an economic decline for veterinarians in the future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an increase in jobs for vets even though some economists predict a surplus of vets. Anyone have an info to back up either of these?</p></li>
<li><p>Do a lot of applicants get rejected the first time around?</p></li>
<li><p>Is anyone/Does anyone know an animal behaviorist? I am thinking about taking the DVM route and then doing the addition residency and testing to become certified as an "animal psychiatrist" as I call it. I'm interested in what the addition training entails and what kind of job opportunities that could open up!</p></li>
<li><p>Do I need to go into a specified program to work with zoo-type animals? What schools are good for this?</p></li>
</ol>

<p>Thanks!</p>

<p>Hi carlys216,</p>

<p>I have read articles indicating there will be a surplus of vets, mostly in small animal practice, in coming years. The reality is, you’re likely to finish vet school with a large amount of debt and you’re not going to make as much money as you could in other careers. It is something to consider, especially if you are on the fence about pursuing a veterinary career.</p>

<p>Vet school admission is very, very competitive. There are only 28 vet schools in the US (although I hear there is a new on on the horizon in E. TN) This is why folks say it is easier to get into med school than vet school. There are more med schools thus more available seats. It is not uncommon for applicants to try several times before getting in, or never getting in at all. This is why my daughter chose to major in biology rather than pre-vet studies. Biology is a good basis should she not get in.</p>

<p>Sorry, I don’t know anything about animal behaviorist as a career.</p>

<p>Should you go to vet school, you’ll complete a four year program then test for certification. If you wish to specialize, you pursue that after. </p>

<p>Best of luck.</p>