Ever dreamt about travelling the world whilst earning a living? Having a veterinary qualification can give you the opportunity to live and work anywhere you like.
If you’re after something a little more exotic, there are a host of off-the-beaten-track opportunities out there for you. Of course, the term ‘exotic’ depends on where you are based, one person’s normal is another’s exotic – we have tried to give a good spread of locations around the English-speaking world.
Exotic Work Destinations for Veterinarians
1. Australia
The ultimate tropical destination, Australia is a really great place to find veterinary work. There are several private clinics offering high standards of care, and excellent pay as well. With Australia’s rich wildlife, there may also be opportunities to work with some more exotic species.
Australia offers a rich culture, a relaxed lifestyle, outdoor living, and beautiful weather – plenty to keep you busy at the weekends!
2. New Zealand
New Zealand is another popular destination for vets looking for a more laid-back lifestyle and diverse climate, from snowy winters to hot summers. Small animal clinics are busy and offer high standards of care.
City living, stunning beaches, and a host of outdoor sporting options such as surfing, skiing and mountain climbing are there to be enjoyed when you aren’t at work, meaning New Zealand is a great choice for most vets seeking a different way of life!
3. United Kingdom
The UK is home for many of the vets we work with, and it stays one of the busiest markets for veterinary roles. Small animal, mixed, equine and farm positions come up regularly across private practice and corporate groups. You’ll need RCVS registration to practise. Browse UK vet jobs.
4: Ireland
Ireland offers a strong mix of small animal and farm work, a high quality of life, and an easy move for UK-based vets thanks to the Common Travel Area. Registration is with the Veterinary Council of Ireland. See vet jobs in Ireland.
5: United States
The US is one of the largest and best-paid markets for vets anywhere, with varied caseloads and roles in almost every state. To practise you’ll need to pass the NAVLE and meet state licensing requirements. Two of the most popular destinations:
- California: year-round sunshine, a huge pet-owning population and some of the country’s top clinics. California vet jobs.
- Florida: warm weather, a vibrant culture and steady demand for small animal care. Florida vet jobs.
6: Canada
Canada combines high standards of care, strong pay and spectacular scenery, from British Columbia to Ontario and Alberta. Licensing is handled provincially, and most vets sit the NAVLE. Explore vet jobs in Canada.
Travelling vs Moving
Not quite sure you want to fully commit to a big move overseas? A permanent move abroad can be a big and daunting commitment, whereas travelling for short periods can be a really great way to not only see the world, but also a fantastic way to gain veterinary experience and grow as a professional.
Many overseas jobs are available on short term contracts, so you can ‘try before you buy’. And if you are wanting to move on and explore somewhere new, or the move away from home simply doesn’t work out for you, there are no ties.
But if you’re set on the move and are looking for something longer term, permanent and longer contracts are widely available. Your new employer may be flexible regarding how long you want to stay.
How to Find a Job Abroad
Salaries can vary around the world and are in line with local costs of living. Make sure you check out whether accommodation is included with the job or not, and whether assistance is provided for your move – many clinics can offer relocation packages and even cover the cost of visas and licenses.
The Vet Service can help you with your job search – with positions in a huge range of exotic countries around the world. Register today and our expert team will get to work finding you a job right away!
A few things to consider before you work abroad as a vet:
Legal Requirements
When moving or travelling abroad to work, making sure you’re legal is a top priority. Check well in advance whether you need to obtain specific licenses to practice as a vet, or to work with exotic or marine species.
Many countries will require you to have a visa – make sure you travel on the correct visa to enable you to work and live for the required amount of time. Visa application processes can be lengthy and rigorous, so allow plenty of time, and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork – errors in the application can cause long delays!
Many veterinary clinics and charities will be happy to assist overseas staff throughout the process. The Vet Service can also help with your legal requirements such as visas and work permits.
Health
Working in parts of the world that are slightly more exotic can present a very different set of health risks than you are used to at home. Make sure you find out what vaccinations you might need by speaking to your health care provider. It’s particularly important as a vet to make sure you are vaccinated against rabies, as it is endemic in many countries.
Tempted Yet?
If you’re thinking of heading somewhere exotic to work, hopefully this article has given you some inspiration, as well as covered some of the questions you might have about logistics.
As vets we are incredibly lucky to be able to take our skills anywhere in the world, earn a living, and travel all at the same time. So why wait, your next adventure could be waiting for you somewhere you least expect it!
The Vet Service offer positions all around the world, take a look at our our current roles across the world. Get in touch today to see how we can progress your vet career!
