The job of veterinarian has been on many lists as being one of the top professions in the job market for the past several years, in some instances approaching the top of the list.
Now, however, the veterinarian profession has ascended to the very top of at least one list. That’s because it was recently recognized by global job board Indeed as the top job of 2025. This ranking is based upon a data-driven methodology that takes into account salary, job growth, and flexibility.
While this might surprise some people, I am not surprised, since I work “in the trenches” of the Veterinary profession and the job market on a daily basis. Two questions you might be asking yourself are, “Why is veterinarian the top job of 2025?” and “How can I use this to my advantage to grow my career?”
With my experience as a Veterinary recruiter as a guide, I’ve answered both of these questions in this article.
Why Veterinarian is the Top Job of 2025
There are multiple reasons why Indeed has named the veterinarian profession as the top job of 2025, with six such reasons listed below:
1. High Salary Potential
Indeed’s analysis places veterinarians at the top of the list, citing a median annual salary of $139,999. This figure surpasses many other in-demand professions, making Veterinary medicine a financially rewarding career choice. With the demand for Veterinary services, salaries are likely to remain competitive. In addition, specialists in fields such as Veterinary surgery, dermatology, and oncology often earn significantly higher salaries due to their expertise and advanced skills.
2. Rapid Growth in Job Postings
The demand for veterinarians has surged, with a 124% increase in job listings over three years. This level of growth is far higher than the average for most professions, which suggests an urgent need for more qualified veterinarians. The rise in job postings can be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased pet adoption rates, higher pet healthcare expectations, and the retirement of older veterinarians leaving vacancies in the field.
3. Industry Growth and Future Projections
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 19% growth rate in Veterinary jobs over the next nine years. This is nearly five times the average growth rate of 4% for other occupations. The increase in pet ownership and evolving pet care expectations drive this expansion. In addition, as Veterinary medicine continues to advance, new treatment options and specialized services are increasing the demand for qualified professionals to provide them.
4. Changing Social Trends
Millennials and Gen Z are prioritizing pet ownership over having children, contributing to the rising demand for Veterinary services. In addition, around 75% of U.S. households now own pets, reflecting a cultural shift toward animal companionship. Many pet owners view their pets as family members and are willing to invest in their health and well-being, fueling demand for high-quality Veterinary care.
5. Impact of Economic Trends
COVID-19 stimulus packages played a role in increasing disposable income, which translated to higher spending on pet care. Even as economic conditions fluctuate, the trend of prioritizing pet well-being remains strong, keeping Veterinary services in high demand. Furthermore, the pet insurance industry is also expanding, making advanced and expensive treatments more accessible to pet owners, which in turn drives the demand for Veterinary professionals.
6. Increased Educational Opportunities
Universities are expanding Veterinary programs to meet demand, offering more aspiring professionals a pathway into the field.
How to Leverage This to Grow Your Career
With veterinarian being ranked as the top job of 2025, veterinarians have a prime opportunity to capitalize on this moment. With this in mind, below are six strategies to help you advance your career:
1. Take Advantage of High Demand
Veterinarians could consider exploring job opportunities in regions where demand is especially strong. Rural areas and underserved communities often have a shortage of Veterinary professionals, which can lead to additional incentives. Government programs and non-profit organizations also offer loan forgiveness programs for veterinarians who work in areas experiencing a shortage of professionals.
2. Pursue Additional Certifications and Specializations
With pet owners expecting higher standards of care, veterinarians who specialize in fields such as surgery, dermatology, or emergency medicine can differentiate themselves and command higher salaries. Continuing education and certification programs through organizations like the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) can provide professionals with the credentials to stand out in the job market.
3. Leverage Technology in Veterinary Medicine
- Telemedicine: Virtual consultations and remote diagnostics are becoming increasingly popular, allowing veterinarians to expand their reach and offer convenience to pet owners.
- AI-driven diagnostics: Leveraging artificial intelligence can improve the accuracy and speed of medical assessments, making Veterinary clinics more efficient.
- Wearable Pet Tech: Veterinarians can integrate smart pet monitoring devices into their practices, helping pet owners track their animal’s health and detect issues early.
- Electronic medical records (EMR): Using advanced digital systems to streamline documentation, scheduling, and client communication enhances clinic efficiency and patient care.
4. Improve Work-Life Balance with Hybrid and Remote Work Options
Indeed’s analysis found that at least 5% of veterinarian job postings offer remote or hybrid work. This means professionals can explore opportunities such as:
- Mobile Veterinary services
- Virtual consultations
- Part-time or flexible schedule positions
- Relief Veterinary work to allow for better work-life balance
5. Networking and Professional Development
Veterinarians can further advance their careers by:
- Joining professional organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- Attending industry conferences (e.g., AVMA Convention, Veterinary Meeting & Expo, Western Veterinary Conference)
- Engaging in mentorship programs to build industry connections and gain career guidance
6. Enhancing Client Experience and Soft Skills
In addition to technical skills, veterinarians who excel in client customer service and client communication can set themselves apart. Since pet owners form strong emotional bonds with their animals, they seek veterinarians who are empathetic and provide compassionate care. Building good relationships with clients can lead to higher retention rates and more referrals.
How The VET Recruiter Can Help
With veterinarians ranked as the top job of 2025, now is the perfect time to advance your career within the Veterinary profession. Working with The VET Recruiter can help you seize new opportunities, whether you’re seeking a leadership role, a specialty practice, or a transition into the Animal Health industry. Our extensive industry connections and expertise can help you find positions that align with your skills, passions, and long-term goals. By leveraging our network, you can access exclusive job openings, explore mentorship opportunities, and negotiate competitive compensation.
While the veterinarian profession may be the top job of 2025, be sure to take advantage of opportunities. The VET Recruiter can help!
If you’re looking to make a change or explore your employment options, then we want to talk with you. I encourage you to contact us or you can also create a profile and/or submit your resume for consideration.
We help support careers in one of two ways: 1. By helping Animal Health and Veterinary professionals to find the right opportunity when the time is right, and 2. By helping to recruit top talent for the critical needs of Animal Health and Veterinary organizations. If this is something that you would like to explore further, please send an email to stacy@thevetrecruiter.com.