Large Animal Veterinarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s era, the significance of large animal veterinarians is increasingly prominent.

As animal health issues evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can diagnose, treat, and protect the health of large animals escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a large animal veterinarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of veterinary science,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable large animal veterinarian job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Large Animal Veterinarian Duties and Responsibilities

Large Animal Veterinarians specialize in providing health care for livestock such as horses, cows, sheep, pigs, and goats.

They also work with other large animals like zoo animals or wild animals.

Their work often involves travelling to farms or other areas where the animals reside.

As a large animal veterinarian, the following duties and responsibilities are common:

• Examine animals to detect and determine the nature of diseases or injuries
• Diagnose health problems and recommend treatment options for animals
• Vaccinate animals against various diseases such as rabies and distemper
• Perform surgeries on animals, including neutering and spaying
• Administer medication to animals suffering from infections or illnesses
• Educate animal owners on general care, medical conditions, and proper nutrition for their pets
• Provide emergency care to sick or injured animals
• Carry out euthanasia or recommend euthanasia when necessary
• Conduct post-mortem analysis to identify the cause of death in animals
• Collaborate with other veterinary professionals and animal health technologists
• Perform regular health checks and provide preventive care
• Document animal health records and update them as needed
• Follow animal welfare laws and regulations

 

What Does a Large Animal Veterinarian Do?

Large Animal Veterinarians are specialized professionals who primarily focus on the health and well-being of large animals such as horses, cows, sheep, pigs, and other farm or working animals.

They conduct routine health checks, administer vaccinations, diagnose illnesses, and provide treatment for a variety of diseases and injuries.

They also offer advice on proper care and nutrition for these animals.

Large Animal Veterinarians are often involved in obstetrics, assisting with the birth of new animals and ensuring the health of both the mother and offspring.

They may also perform surgical procedures as necessary.

Many Large Animal Veterinarians work in rural areas or travel directly to farms and ranches to provide onsite care.

They are well-versed in handling these large animals safely and effectively.

Additionally, they might work with local or national authorities on disease control, quarantine regulations and animal welfare issues.

Their role is critical in ensuring the health and productivity of livestock populations, which directly impacts the agricultural industry and food supply.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Large Animal Veterinarian to diagnose and treat health conditions in livestock and other large animals.

The responsibilities include performing health checks, giving vaccinations, prescribing medications, and performing surgeries, if necessary.

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of animal behavior and physiology, a strong commitment to animal welfare, and exceptional communication skills to educate owners about diseases and treatments.

Ultimately, the role of the Large Animal Veterinarian is to ensure the health and wellbeing of large animals, while providing excellent service to owners and adhering to state regulations and veterinary ethics.

 

Responsibilities

• Examine animals and check their health status
• Diagnose illnesses and determine the best treatment
• Dress wounds of injured animals
• Vaccinate animals to prevent diseases
• Spay and neuter animals
• Prescribe medication
• Educate animal owners on feeding, general care, and the necessary medical conditions
• Update client records
• Adhere to high medical quality standards
• Be empathetic and kind to all patients and clients

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree
• Proven experience as a veterinarian, ideally with large animals
• Knowledge of diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures related to large animals
• Adequate knowledge of breeding, nutrition and overall care of large animals
• Patience and a love for animals
• Outstanding communication skills
• Ability to manage time and prioritize effectively
• Excellent problem-solving skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Large Animal Veterinarian
• Work Environment: Veterinary clinic, farm visits. This job requires physical stamina as it often involves handling animals of significant size.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Veterinarian or Clinic Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $105,000 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 in our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Qualifications and Skills

A competent Large Animal Veterinarian should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Completion of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited university and licensure to practice veterinary medicine.
• Strong knowledge of large animal anatomy, diseases, surgery, pharmacology, and other relevant veterinary practices to provide optimal healthcare to large animals.
• Strong physical stamina to handle large and potentially aggressive animals such as horses, cows, and goats.
• Excellent diagnostic skills to accurately identify and treat illnesses and injuries in a variety of large animal species.
• Effective communication skills to clearly explain medical conditions and treatment plans to animal owners, often in emotionally charged situations.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills to build relationships with animal owners and work collaboratively with veterinary assistants and other veterinary professionals.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify the best treatment options for a variety of ailments or injuries.
• Compassion and patience to handle animals in discomfort and alleviate the distress of owners.
• Ability to work in a variety of environments, including outdoor settings, veterinary clinics, and farms.

 

What Does a Large Animal Veterinarian Do?

Large Animal Veterinarians primarily deal with the health and well-being of larger animals such as livestock, horses, and sometimes zoo animals.

They are responsible for diagnosing and treating health conditions in these animals, which could range from diseases and infections to injuries sustained from accidents or mishandling.

Large Animal Veterinarians perform various diagnostic tests, prescribe medication, and may also perform surgeries.

They are skilled in using specialized equipment for treating large animals and have a deep understanding of animal behavior to handle them safely.

Preventative care is a significant part of their job, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and giving advice on feeding and general care to the animal owners.

Often, they are called on-site at farms or zoos, as transporting large animals can be difficult and stressful for the animal.

They also play a critical role in public health by detecting and controlling animal diseases that can affect humans, such as rabies or bird flu.

Education and counseling of animal owners, farmers, or zoo staff about the best practices in animal care and disease prevention also fall under their purview.

Large Animal Veterinarians often work in teams or collaborate with other professionals such as veterinary technicians, farmers, or wildlife conservationists.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Experience Requirements

Large Animal Veterinarians typically need to have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, which often includes clinical rotations involving the treatment of large animals.

This provides a significant amount of theoretical knowledge as well as practical experience in the field.

During their degree, many students also take up internships or part-time roles at veterinary clinics or animal shelters, or they may work with livestock or horses on farms or ranches.

These experiences provide them with a deeper understanding of the role and the challenges they may face.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience post-graduation are typically entry-level, having gained hands-on experience during their degree program or in a professional setting.

These candidates have usually built a foundation in diagnosing and treating large animals and have developed their surgical skills.

Large Animal Veterinarians with 3 to 5 years of experience usually have a proven track record in the field.

They may have specialized in a particular area, such as equine medicine, and are often proficient in performing complex surgeries and procedures.

Those with over 5 years of experience often have substantial knowledge and skills in the field.

They may have dealt with a variety of cases, from routine check-ups to emergency surgeries.

They may also have leadership experience, as they could have managed teams or have been involved in training junior veterinarians or veterinary students.

These candidates are typically prepared for senior or supervisory roles within a veterinary practice.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Qualifications and Skills

A proficient large animal veterinarian should have the qualifications and skills that align with your job description, such as:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and a license to practice veterinary medicine.
• Advanced knowledge about the diseases, ailments and injuries that affect larger animals like horses, cows, and other farm animals.
• Technical skills to perform surgeries, administer vaccinations, and conduct other necessary medical procedures.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with animal owners, explaining animal health conditions and treatment options.
• Experience with diagnostic tools and laboratory equipment to accurately identify and monitor animal health issues.
• Physical stamina and strength to handle larger animals and to work on foot for extended periods of time.
• Problem-solving skills to accurately diagnose medical issues and devise suitable treatment plans.
• Patience and compassion towards animals, maintaining a calm demeanor even in stressful situations.
• Emergency response skills to handle urgent and life-threatening situations.
• Record keeping skills to document and track the medical histories and treatments of the animals they care for.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Experience Requirements

Aspiring Large Animal Veterinarians generally attend veterinary school where they gain extensive theoretical knowledge and practical experience with large animals.

The training often includes hands-on experiences and internships at veterinary clinics, farms, zoos, or animal shelters.

Individuals who aim to specialize in this field typically spend several years in veterinary practice, predominantly working with larger animals such as horses, cows, and farm animals.

This allows them to gain a deep understanding of the needs, diseases, and treatments of these animals.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or part-time roles in veterinary clinics.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience through roles such as Veterinary Assistant, Veterinary Technician, or other animal healthcare-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their diagnostic skills, surgical techniques, and patient care methods in entry-level Large Animal Veterinarian roles or similar positions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial or head veterinarian position.

They may have also developed special skills such as emergency care, orthopedics, or internal medicine for large animals.

Some veterinary practices may also require their veterinarians to have advanced relevant experience or board certification in a specialized area such as equine medicine, bovine health, or large animal surgery.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Education and Training Requirements

Aspiring Large Animal Veterinarians typically require a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Before pursuing a DVM, individuals must first complete a bachelor’s degree, often in a field related to animal or biological sciences.

During their undergraduate studies, potential veterinarians should focus on gaining knowledge in areas such as biology, chemistry, animal behavior, and anatomy.

Some veterinary schools may also require coursework in physics and math.

The DVM program usually takes four years to complete and involves courses in animal nutrition, veterinary physiology, animal diseases, and more.

The latter part of the program often includes clinical rotations where students gain practical experience.

After earning a DVM, veterinarians looking to specialize in treating large animals may opt for additional training or internships in this specific area.

These may include working in rural veterinary practices, large animal hospitals, or with government agencies responsible for animal health and welfare.

Finally, all states require veterinarians to be licensed before they can practice.

Licensing typically involves passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination, as well as any additional state-specific exams.

Continuing education throughout their careers is also essential for large animal veterinarians to keep up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and animal health issues.

Some may even pursue board certification in a specialty area, such as internal medicine or surgery for large animals, demonstrating their expertise and dedication to the field.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Salary Expectations

A Large Animal Veterinarian can expect to earn an average salary of $88,490 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary significantly based on factors such as years of experience, specializations, geographical location, and the specific industry in which they work.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Education and Training Requirements

Large Animal Veterinarians are required to have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college, as well as a state license to practice.

The typical DVM program is a four-year sequence of courses.

In the first three years, students largely engage with classroom and laboratory instruction, focusing on subjects like animal anatomy, physiology, disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The final year is usually dedicated to clinical rotation in a veterinary medical center or hospital.

Before entering a DVM program, candidates need to have a strong foundation in biological and physical sciences from their undergraduate studies.

Although not a requirement, most admitted students hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field like biology, animal science, or zoology.

In addition to the DVM degree, Large Animal Veterinarians should have completed an internship or residency program that focuses on large animals such as cows, horses, and other livestock.

This gives them a practical understanding of large animal diseases, their diagnosis and treatment.

State licensure is mandatory for practicing veterinarians.

This typically involves passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) and possibly a state-specific test.

Large Animal Veterinarians can also opt for board certification in a specialized field, such as internal medicine, surgery, or theriogenology.

This requires additional years of study and passing an examination.

To keep up with advancements in veterinary medicine, Large Animal Veterinarians should also commit to continuous professional development through seminars, workshops, and other educational opportunities.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Large Animal Veterinarian is $87,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific organization or business employing them.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Large Animal Veterinarian need?

Large Animal Veterinarians need to have excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

They must be able to make diagnoses based on a set of symptoms and be able to explain the diagnosis and treatment plan clearly to the animal’s owner.

They also need to have physical stamina as they often have to handle animals that are larger and heavier than they are.

A good Large Animal Veterinarian will also have a compassionate demeanor and a genuine affection for animals.

 

What qualifications are necessary to become a Large Animal Veterinarian?

To become a Large Animal Veterinarian, an individual must first complete a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a field related to animal sciences.

Then, they must attend veterinary school to receive a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.

After graduating, they must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) to be licensed.

Some Large Animal Veterinarians also choose to specialize in a specific type of animal and may complete a residency program for further training.

 

What should you look for in a Large Animal Veterinarian resume?

When reviewing a Large Animal Veterinarian resume, look for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and a valid veterinary license.

Experience in a similar role working with large animals such as horses, cows, sheep, or pigs is also crucial.

You should also check for any areas of specialization which might align well with the specific needs of your practice or farm.

 

What qualities make a good Large Animal Veterinarian?

A good Large Animal Veterinarian is not only knowledgeable and skilled in animal healthcare, but also has a natural affinity and patience for large animals.

They must have excellent problem-solving abilities and can remain calm under pressure.

They should also have good physical stamina, as they often have to handle large and sometimes uncooperative animals.

Additionally, they should have good interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with animal owners and other veterinary staff.

 

What are the daily duties of a Large Animal Veterinarian?

A typical day for a Large Animal Veterinarian may involve driving to farms or ranches to examine animals and provide treatment.

They might perform routine health checks, administer vaccines, or treat illnesses and injuries.

They may also provide advice to animal owners on nutrition, breeding, and general care.

In some cases, they may be called to assist with difficult births or perform surgery.

They also have administrative duties, such as maintaining animal health records and writing reports.

 

Large Animal Veterinarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Large Animal Veterinarian need?

Large Animal Veterinarians must have excellent animal handling skills and a thorough knowledge of large animal behavior and physiology.

They should have excellent diagnostic and surgical abilities, and they must be skilled in the use of various veterinary tools and technologies.

Additionally, they should have good communication skills to interact with animal owners and other veterinary professionals.

 

Do Large Animal Veterinarians need a degree?

Yes, Large Animal Veterinarians need to have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.

Before entering veterinary school, they usually need a bachelor’s degree, often in a related field like biology or animal science.

After obtaining their DVM, they also need to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination to be licensed to practice.

 

What should you look for in a Large Animal Veterinarian resume?

On a Large Animal Veterinarian’s resume, look for evidence of their veterinary degree and licensure.

They should also show experience working with large animals, either through internships, residencies, or previous jobs.

Additional certifications in specific areas like equine or bovine medicine can also be a plus.

It’s also beneficial to see signs of good communication skills and physical stamina.

 

What qualities make a good Large Animal Veterinarian?

A good Large Animal Veterinarian is patient, compassionate, and has a genuine love for animals.

They should be able to handle stressful situations, make decisions quickly, and work well under pressure.

Good physical fitness is also essential, as the job often involves heavy lifting and long hours of standing or kneeling.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Large Animal Veterinarian?

It can be challenging to hire a Large Animal Veterinarian, mainly because the pool of qualified candidates is relatively small.

Many veterinarians specialize in small animal care, so finding someone with the skills and experience to work with larger animals can take time.

The job also requires a high level of physical fitness and commitment, which can further narrow the field of candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve offered a glimpse into the dynamic and rewarding world of being a large animal veterinarian.

And guess what?

It’s not just about treating animals.

It’s about safeguarding the health and welfare of our planet’s largest creatures, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive large animal veterinarian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this remarkable journey.

But why stop there?

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

Remember:

Every animal you treat contributes to a healthier ecosystem.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

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