Equine Veterinary Surgeon Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of equine health, the role of the equine veterinary surgeon has never been more critical.

As advancements in veterinary medicine accelerate, the demand for skilled professionals who can diagnose, operate, and ensure the well-being of our equine friends amplifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an equine veterinary surgeon?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex world of equine veterinary surgery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable equine veterinary surgeon job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Duties and Responsibilities

Equine Veterinary Surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating health issues in horses.

This specialized veterinary field requires extensive knowledge of equine physiology, as well as a high degree of surgical skill.

The following are their key duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluate horses’ health, including conducting physical examinations and obtaining medical histories
• Diagnose equine diseases and conditions using a variety of methods, such as blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasound
• Carry out surgical procedures on horses, ranging from minor wound repair to complex orthopedic surgeries
• Administer anesthesia to horses before surgeries and monitor their responses
• Provide emergency treatment to injured horses
• Prescribe and administer medication, vaccines, and treatments to horses
• Communicate and advise horse owners or caretakers on post-surgery care, horse health maintenance, and disease prevention
• Work collaboratively with other veterinary professionals, including veterinary nurses and equine specialists
• Stay up-to-date with advances in equine medicine and surgery, including new procedures and tools

 

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Equine Veterinary Surgeon to diagnose and treat health conditions of horses.

This role includes conducting general check-ups, treating illnesses and injuries, performing surgery, advising on dietary and breeding practices, and implementing preventative care measures.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of equine anatomy and physiology, coupled with strong diagnostic and surgical skills.

Experience with equine dentistry will be considered an asset.

 

Responsibilities

• Examining horses to diagnose their health problems and recommend treatment.
• Performing surgeries, including emergency operations, on sick or injured horses.
• Administering vaccinations to prevent diseases.
• Providing advice on equine dietary and breeding practices.
• Communicating with horse owners to answer their questions and update them on treatment plans.
• Keeping detailed records of diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes.
• Staying current with advancements in equine medicine and surgery.
• Working with veterinary technicians and assistants to provide comprehensive care.

 

Qualifications

• A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited university.
• License to practice veterinary medicine.
• Proven experience as an Equine Veterinary Surgeon.
• Strong diagnostic and surgical skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to handle stress and manage emergencies effectively.
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Equine Veterinary Surgeon
• Work Environment: Veterinary clinic or hospital. This role may require travel for farm calls or emergency situations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Veterinary Practice Manager.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, license, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Equine Veterinary Surgeon Do?

Equine Veterinary Surgeons are specialized veterinarians who work primarily with horses.

They operate in veterinary clinics, horse farms, racetracks, and sometimes in a mobile practice, travelling to treat horses in their home stables.

They conduct physical examinations to assess the overall health of the horse and diagnose any health problems.

They perform surgeries for various conditions like fractures, colic, or joint disease.

This can range from minor procedures to major operations.

They work closely with other veterinary professionals to provide comprehensive healthcare for horses.

This includes preventative medicine, such as vaccinations and deworming, and treatment of illnesses, injuries and diseases.

Equine Veterinary Surgeons are also involved in the reproductive health of horses, carrying out procedures such as artificial insemination, pregnancy diagnosis and foaling assistance.

They provide advice and consultation to horse owners on proper horse care, nutrition, and disease prevention.

They may also carry out routine dental work, such as floating (filing down) a horse’s teeth.

Furthermore, they might be involved in research studies related to equine health and disease, contributing to the advancement of equine medicine.

In emergency situations, they must be available to provide immediate care, which often involves working irregular hours.

The job requires a high level of physical fitness due to the size and strength of the animals they work with.

 

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Qualifications and Skills

An effective Equine Veterinary Surgeon should possess skills and qualifications that align with the precise needs of the job, including:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and licensure to practice veterinary medicine.
• Postgraduate training or board certification in equine surgery, demonstrating a specialization in the field.
• Solid knowledge of equine anatomy, physiology, and common diseases, allowing for accurate diagnoses and treatment planning.
• Excellent surgical skills, with the ability to perform both emergency and planned surgeries on a variety of equine patients.
• Interpersonal skills that allow for effective communication with horse owners, trainers, and other veterinary professionals.
• Strong diagnostic skills, with the ability to interpret a variety of tests including imaging, blood tests, and physical examinations.
• Compassionate nature and excellent bedside manner to ensure the welfare of equine patients and to reassure owners during stressful situations.
• Physical fitness and stamina, as the job often requires manual handling of large animals and long periods of standing during surgical procedures.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate record-keeping, medication administration, and follow-up care.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick decisions in emergency situations.

 

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Experience Requirements

Equine Veterinary Surgeons typically begin their journey with a Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, followed by a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.

In order to specialize in equine surgery, additional training and experience are required.

During their DVM degree, candidates gain hands-on experience during clinical rotations which expose them to a variety of veterinary practices, including equine medicine.

This initial experience forms the base of their practical knowledge in equine healthcare.

After graduation, aspiring equine veterinary surgeons often undertake an internship in a veterinary practice that caters specifically to horses.

This one-year internship provides comprehensive exposure and experience in equine medicine and surgery.

Following an internship, most candidates proceed with a three-year residency program in equine surgery.

This residency is conducted under the guidance of experienced equine surgeons and focuses on surgical procedures, advanced diagnostic techniques, and comprehensive care for horses.

Once they have completed their residency, equine veterinary surgeons may choose to become board-certified by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

This certification is obtained by passing a rigorous exam after gaining a substantial amount of practical experience.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in equine surgery are typically considered experts in their field.

They may have developed their skills in specialized areas, such as orthopedics or internal medicine, and are often ready for leadership or senior veterinary roles.

 

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Education and Training Requirements

An Equine Veterinary Surgeon typically requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution.

This involves a minimum of 6-8 years of post-secondary education, including a bachelor’s degree and a four-year professional program in veterinary medicine.

In addition to this, they are required to have a strong background in animal biology, anatomy, physiology, and disease prevention.

The DVM program involves extensive clinical experience, allowing students to gain practical experience in veterinary procedures and patient care.

After obtaining their DVM, aspiring Equine Veterinary Surgeons should also complete a specialized residency program in equine surgery, which usually lasts for 3 to 4 years.

This residency provides practical and intensive experience in equine surgery, medicine, and anesthesia.

Most states require veterinarians to obtain a state license to practice.

The licensing process generally includes passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination, along with a state jurisprudence exam that covers state laws and regulations.

Continued education is essential for Equine Veterinary Surgeons to stay up to date with the latest advancements and research in equine medicine and surgery.

This can be achieved through regular seminars, conferences, workshops, or advanced courses.

Moreover, gaining board certification from an organization like the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) can further demonstrate a surgeon’s expertise and commitment to the field.

This requires additional training and passing an extensive examination.

While not a requirement, some Equine Veterinary Surgeons may also pursue a Master’s or Ph.D. in a related field to enhance their knowledge and research skills.

 

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Salary Expectations

An Equine Veterinary Surgeon earns an average salary of $95,000 (USD) per year.

The compensation can greatly vary depending on the level of expertise, education, geographical location, and the type of practice they are engaged in.

Highly experienced Equine Veterinary Surgeons may earn over $150,000 annually.

 

Equine Veterinary Surgeon Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Equine Veterinary Surgeon need?

Equine Veterinary Surgeons need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat complex equine health issues.

They should also possess excellent manual dexterity for performing surgeries and other medical procedures.

Good interpersonal skills are necessary for communicating effectively with horse owners, stable staff, and other veterinary professionals.

Knowledge of equine behavior and handling is also crucial to ensure the safety and cooperation of the animals during examinations and treatments.

 

What qualifications does an Equine Veterinary Surgeon need?

To become an Equine Veterinary Surgeon, one must complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree from an accredited veterinary college.

Following that, they need to gain licensure by passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) and any relevant state exams.

They should also have completed a residency in equine surgery and be board certified by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons or equivalent body.

 

What should you look for in an Equine Veterinary Surgeon resume?

In addition to checking for a valid veterinary license and board certification, look for a strong background in equine health, demonstrated by experience working in equine practice, internships, or residencies.

Additional qualifications or certifications in specialized areas such as equine orthopedic surgery or internal medicine can also be valuable.

Additionally, look for evidence of ongoing professional development and commitment to staying updated on the latest advancements in equine health.

 

What qualities make a good Equine Veterinary Surgeon?

A good Equine Veterinary Surgeon should exhibit compassion and patience for horses and their owners.

They should be able to make sound decisions under pressure, especially during emergency surgical procedures.

They need to have the physical strength to handle large animals and the stamina to perform surgeries that can last several hours.

Good Equine Veterinary Surgeons should also be committed to ethical practice and the welfare of the animals they treat.

 

Is it difficult to hire Equine Veterinary Surgeons?

Hiring Equine Veterinary Surgeons can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires candidates with not only veterinary surgical skills but also extensive knowledge and experience in equine health.

A limited pool of qualified candidates and high demand for their services can make recruitment more challenging.

A competitive salary, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive work environment can help attract and retain these professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have unraveled the true essence of being an equine veterinary surgeon.

And guess what?

It’s not just about performing surgeries.

It’s about safeguarding the health of our equestrian companions, one patient at a time.

With our definitive equine veterinary surgeon job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to gallop ahead.

But why rein in there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to precision.

Remember:

Each surgical procedure is part of a bigger mission.

Let’s champion equine health. Together.

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