Yahooaccount wrote: » Any info about the job?
Tequilita wrote: » Just wanted to point out that the money earned after a long week plus on call hours can often be less than minimum wage.. Add to that the stress associated with the responsibility of the job and fatigue as a result of physical, intellectual and emotional strain but also a lack of sleep depending on the time of year and you'll find this job doesn't pay nearly half as well as it should. As for satisfying work - the animals cured/improving are often not seen again. Those not improving return with unhappy owners etc etc and it's these cases that you will remember when you go home at the end of the day.. I don't mean to sound so negative but I think there is a reason that vets have the second highest rate of depression career wise (first is dentistry) and often this does not become apparent until one has finished the five years and is actually working. As regards working in the US - yes the UCD veterinary degree is now recognised. However, a further US exam must be taken (the NAVLEs) and more individual testing may be needed depending on the state in which you wish to work. The exams and licensing cost the guts of a small fortune and that's before you even go near visas to work in America. The process takes months and months and can be extremely frustrating. The money for small animal work is much better though and that, coupled with the lack of vet jobs in Ireland and the UK at the moment can make it a worthwhile option even with all the bull**** involved. There are a lot of positive points to working as a vet too but I think the majority of my class had no idea as to the realities of this job. The drop-out rate after a three/four years is astounding to many considering the work that went into getting this far but not surprising as a member of the profession. I hate to come across so negative and I know myself that years ago if someone had told me the same thing -that I wouldn't have listened - all I ever wanted to do.. etc etc. but I feel I would be wrong to say nothing.. Please pm me if you have any questions. Also, feel free to argue any points..