In Connecticut and across the country, veterinarians are called upon to help save the lives of animals and rehabilitate these wonderful creatures. To learn the skills to become a veterinarian is to set oneself on a path to bring joy to countless lives and enjoy a successful career in a field with incredible promise.
Aspiring veterinarians in Connecticut will be glad that the article below contains all the key information they’ll need to launch their careers on the right path.
Among other things, we explore the steps involved in the process, certification and licensure requirements, and some top accredited programs for candidates to consider.
Steps to Become a Veterinarian in Connecticut
The following are the key considerations needed to kickstart a successful career as a veterinarian in Connecticut.
Preparing from School
Aspiring veterinarians in Connecticut are expected to prepare for their careers right from high school. They may do so by maintaining a strong GPA and developing an affinity for topics in chemistry, biology, and microbiology.
Choosing the right Pre-Vet Program
Before entering into vet school, candidates must obtain a bachelor’s degree. The time spent in an undergraduate program gives students an edge when securing admission into vet school.
During this time, they are expected to amass a strong GPA, take on leadership roles, and carry out extracurricular activities that will help them impress their prospective vet school.
Applying for Veterinary School
There are only thirty accredited veterinary schools in the country. For this reason, becoming a veterinarian in Connecticut is incredibly competitive. However, candidates who apply themselves and prepare from an early stage should be able to pull it off.
During the time spent in a vet school, candidates will learn about animal physiology and anatomy, parasitology, and other key topics.
The NAVLE
During the final year of vet school, aspiring veterinarians in Connecticut will be expected to sit for and pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). They will need this license to secure employment.
Experience and Specialty
Fresh veterinarians participate in residency programs to acquire further experience and choose a specialty. Among the options available for veterinarians looking to specialize include small animal veterinary medicine, zoo veterinary medicine, equine, and large animal veterinary medicine, among others.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
In Connecticut, veterinarians must pay a $565 licensing fee to practice legally in the state. This license must be renewed every 2 years by participating in 24 hours of continuing education.
The state offers temporary licenses and requires that candidates submit their transcripts and verify licensed work experience. While no background check is required, candidates must provide proof of citizenship or alien status.
It is also worth mentioning that veterinarians in Connecticut are expected to pass the national exam, graduate from an approved veterinary college, and participate in a jurisprudence exam.
Top Veterinary Schools in Connecticut
Connecticut has no accredited veterinary medicine program. However, the following are some of Connecticut’s best-accredited training destinations close enough for aspiring veterinarians.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the best vet schools in the world and boasts a strong curriculum and research focus. Students will learn in a beautiful environment with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
They will also be learning under highly specialized and experienced instructors.
Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine
Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts, is another top-quality, accredited alternative for candidates in Connecticut to consider. The program boasts an innovative curriculum and clinical emphasis.
Candidates will have received all the classroom and hands-on training they’ll need to secure employment and enjoy success on the job by the time they graduate.
University of Pennsylvania
Lastly, aspiring veterinarians in Connecticut may also consider the top-quality program offered by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in Philadelphia, renowned for research and clinical excellence.
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Salary & Career Outlook
A survey by Indeed showed that an average veterinarian in Connecticut takes home an annual salary of around $121,826. The same survey also showed that those among the highest-paid in the city (the top 10%) take home an annual average salary of around $196,091, while those among the bottom 10% still manage an annual average salary of $75,688.
Naturally, experience and location are important determinants of how much a veterinarian will earn in Connecticut. For reference, veterinarians in Bristol, CT, earn an annual average salary of $142,302, while those in Cheshire earn an annual average salary of $142,302.
Rounding up the top five highest-paying cities for veterinarians in Connecticut include Danbury, with an annual average salary of $141,034; Milford, with an annual average salary of $140,956; and West Hartford, with an annual average salary of $138,502.
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