What does an aquatic veterinarian do?

Aquatic veterinarians work in diverse settings under a range of working conditions. Their work is crucial to maintaining the health of aquarium and zoo animal populations as well as wild populations in fish and game reserves, national parks and other wild settings. Leading a team of technicians in a clinical setting or on expeditions into the field, aquatic veterinarians track and report on the health of specific animals, monitored populations in the wild and captive populations in research settings.

Aquatic veterinarians are specialists in providing medical care for marine species. As such their work is crucial to maintaining captive populations at a stable level and ensuring humane conditions for the animals. Those who work in natural settings help keep wild populations at optimal levels and prevent the spread of diseases in wetlands, rivers and lakes.

Aquatic veterinarian skills and qualifications

Successful aquatic veterinarians should have skills and specific abilities that include:

• A commitment to the wellbeing of animals under their care
• A working understanding of veterinary drugs, surgical techniques and animal management best practices
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• The physical ability to restrain wild animals before and after sedation
• Solid communication skills for writing reports and advising wildlife managers about complex veterinary issues
• Problem-solving skills useful for diagnosis of complex medical issues
• Reliable decision-making skills for rapid treatment under stress

Aquatic veterinarian experience requirements

Because aquatic veterinarians occupy a leadership position on their teams, most employers look for some experience in candidates. Some employers are looking for candidates who have worked independently in the past, while others are more interested in new hires who are used to working as part of a team. Aquatic veterinarians with limited or no experience may still be welcomed onboard as junior members of a more experienced vet’s team or as a senior veterinarian’s replacement after some on-the-job training. As a condition of earning their credentials, aquatic veterinarians are generally required to complete at least a one-year internship in veterinary medicine before looking for work in the field.

Aquatic veterinarian education and training requirements

Aquatic veterinarians must hold a Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field and complete a competitive course of specialized veterinary training at a regionally accredited college. Earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree generally takes four years on top of a B.S. degree. The program typically includes three years of classroom instruction and lab work as well as at least one year of clinical experience as an intern.

Once these requirements have been met, a new veterinarian must obtain a license issued by the state where their practice will be. All 50 states require passage of the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination before granting a license. Many states also have their own licensing exam, though aquatic veterinarians may not need a state license to work for the federal government.

In addition to passing the national exam, most states require that veterinarians pass a state licensing exam. However, veterinarians employed by state or federal government may not need a state license, because government agencies differ in what they require.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this description is not exactly in step with the position you’re hiring for, take a look at these related job descriptions and find one that better suits your needs:

• Veterinarian
• Veterinary Assistant
• Veterinary Technician

Aquatic veterinarianjob description FAQs

How are aquatic veterinarians’ positions different from other veterinarian positions?

Aquatic veterinarians do jobs similar to what other vets do, but for animals that live in and around the water. Veterinarians who specialize in marine and aquatic environments treat a diverse range of water life, rather than typical livestock or household pets.

Are aquatic veterinarians the same as marine biologists?

Though both professions require a professional understanding of animal biology, aquatic veterinarians have different training and job duties from marine biologists. Vets provide medical care for their animals, while biologists lean more toward research and teaching.

What animals do aquatic veterinarians treat?

Aquatic veterinarians treat many different kinds of animals. Common animals for these vets include fish, crustaceans, sea mammals and turtles.