Many people dream of becoming a vet so they can help animals. This is a worthy goal, but it’s not one that will happen quickly. What does it take to become a vet in Texas? Schooling—a lot of schooling.  It takes between 7 and 9 years to complete the required undergrad requirements plus vet school needed to finally be able to earn your veterinary license and don the white coat.

Whether you’re just starting high school or you’re getting ready to start applying to college and you’re looking for information about how to become a vet, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Learning Science and Math 

As is the case with any path that involves the sciences, you’ll need a strong foundation, and high school is a great place to start building it. Take as many high level math and science classes as you can. If you qualify, go for the AP classes that may reduce the number of classes you’ll need in college and shorten—albeit only slightly—the amount of time it will take to complete your program.

Earn Your Undergrad Degree

Every choice you make during your undergrad program should be made with the fact that you want to apply for vet school in mind. Each vet school’s requirements are a bit different, so become familiar with the requirements of the schools you’re interested in.

Generally speaking, this will include classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.  Depending on the school, you may also need classes in biochemistry, mammalogy, and other advanced classes.

You should look at your four years in college as a way to build a successful application to vet school. Many campuses have pre-professional clubs that help guide students towards their stated career goals. Joining a pre-veterinary club is an excellent idea as is volunteering for internship experience in some related capacity.

Take the GRE As graduation nears, you’ll need to take the GRE. This is a test that shows you’re prepared to embark on graduate-level studies. While not all veterinary schools require the GRE, many do. If you plan to apply to more than one vet school, it’s a good idea to have this test under your belt.

Vet School

Being accepted into the vet school of your choice is a huge accomplishment, and if you’ve made it this far you should be very proud of what you have achieved. Now it’s time to get to work and learn the skills you’ll need to reach your goal of becoming a licensed veterinarian.

Take full advantage of any available research projects and other programs. Such programs are how many vet school students end up deciding on an area of specialty or choose research over practice.

Get Your License

All states, including Texas, require graduates of veterinary school to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam. In Texas, you must also pass the State Board Examination.

The truth is that the answer to how to become a vet seems overwhelming to many, and it’s not for everyone. Those who dream of working with animals in a medical setting also have the option of becoming a vet tech.

How to Become a Vet Tech

Vet techs may perform diagnostic tests, prepare animals for surgery, administer treatments, and otherwise support the veterinarian. Are you wondering how to become a vet tech in Texas? The job does require some schooling and you must attend a program that is accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities.

These are two-year programs. Upon graduation, the next step is to take a board certified exam to become a registered veterinary technician.

Here at The Vet on Fourth, we know how rewarding a career in veterinary medicine is, and we wish you the best as you move towards your goal of becoming a licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician.