Marchant 1
Delaney Marchant
Mrs. Morris
English I Acc.
27 May 2014
Aiding Exotic Creatures
Marchant 2
Aiding Exotic Creatures:
Thesis: Before considering the career of a zoo veterinarian, it must be taken into consideration
the unpredictability of the job, the four to ten years of education needed, and the busy schedule
along with physical demand
I. What are the duties of a vet in a zoo, aquarium, wildlife center, etc.?
A. Veterinarians must always be prepared as the job is very unpredictable. (Murray)
1. Each Day the job may vary in patients, treatment, and care (Murray)
2. Most vets are on call 24/7 and are expected to return to the facility if a patient is
in need of immediate medical attention (Matassa)
B. Veterinarians must be fearless and have the proper training or ability to restrain and
sedate creature of all sizes (Vet Tech EDU 1)
1. Many of the animals may include poisonous or extremely large animals (Vet
Tech EDU 1)
2. This must be done in a safe controlled environment as to not harm or injure the
animal (Sanchez)
a. Sedation is usually performed before surgery or during an examination so
the veterinarians can get a clear view of the animal’s health (McDonald 3)
b. Many Animal Right Activists are against this form of medical treatment
and believe it is inhumane (Matassa)
C. Teamwork is a vital aspect of a zoo veterinarian’s everyday lives (Crosby 10)
1. The zookeepers are very important as they spend the most “one-on-one” time
with the creatures (McDonald 4)
a. The keepers information and observations of the animals can help the
doctor diagnose the creature quicker and more accurately (McDonald 4)
b. Building a strong bond with the animal’s care taker can make the life of
a veterinarian much easier (McDonald 4)
2. Safety is the number one priority for veterinarians: safety of the doctors as well
as the animals (Sanchez)
II. What are the credentials needed for this occupation?
A. Finding the right school is very important in an educationally based career (Veterinary
Technician)
Marchant 3
1. The school should be approved by the NAVTA (Vet Tech EDU)
2. Veterinarian schools are very competitive, but they necessary to attend for at
least four years (Murray)
a. Veterinarian Technician take less occupation but receive less pay (Vet
Tech EDU)
b. A plethora of schools is very expensive between college, vet school,
internships, residencies, etc. (Step-by-Step)
3. It is required to have a doctorate in veterinary medicine, be licensed by the
National Exam (ACZM), and have at least 2-5 years experience on the job. (Step-by
Step)
a. Usually, an internship and a residency are performed in order to gain
experience and choose a specialty, such as zoological medicine. (Murray 1)
b. During a student’s internship or residency, they will work under close
supervision or more experienced veterinarians for one to three years.
(Crosby 10)
1.) After internship/ residency doctors are qualified to treat on
domestic animals and live stock. It is required to specialize
in Wild Animal Health to treat exotic life. (Sanchez)
2.) The best way to gain experience is to volunteer at places
such as the local shelter, animal rescue, veterinarian hospital,
etc. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
B. Usually the drive to follow this career includes a strong love for animals and their overall
well being, beginning at a young age. (Veterinary Technician)
1. Skills needed: patience with animals and people, observing the animal’s
behaviors (they cant talk to you), people skills, remove “I can’t” from
vocabulary, and writing skills (Matassa)
2. Although there is a lot of school the pay off is great! Working with so many
exciting animals is a rare experience little gets to have. (McDonald 12)
III. What is the life style of a zoo veterinarian?
B. “Job satisfaction runs high at zoos and aquariums. Perhaps that’s one reason there usually
are more applicants for zoo and aquarium jobs than there are openings” (Crosby 13).
1. To study or specialize in zoological medicine, not only must there be a passion
for animals, but also a strong interest in ecology and exotic wildlife (Vet Tech
EDU)
a. Wild creatures can be very exciting, but with adventure comes the strong
possibility of injury (Crosby 14)
Marchant 4
b. A serious drawback of the occupation is that the animals are wild,
unpredictable, and can often be dangerous. They will attack if given the
chance (MacDonald 2)
2. The field of veterinarian medicine goes far beyond just medical work in
hospitals, and has many different specialties and fields. (MacDonald 2)
C. The Average annual wage for veterinarians is $107,830 while the average hourly wage in
the U.S. is $51.84 (Bridges)
1. For Veterinarian Technician, with a zoo specality, they can earn any where from
$42,000- $44,030 annually (Vet Tech EDU)
2. Compared to other occupations in the country veterinarians are paid rather well.
(Vet Tech EDU)
D. As a skilled veterinarian, there are many opportunities to assist in wildlife conservation.
As these do involve many different habitats, the vets are required to travel frequently. (Vet
Tech EDU)
1. There is a lot of travel and unpredictability, as the animal care members can be
on four 24 hours with traveling to rescue animals, treat patients, etc. (Vet Tech
EDU)
2. There is a tight community between veterinarians who work with exotic animals
in the country. (Vet Tech EDU)
a. Due to the fact that zoo and aquariums are increasing their concerns for
basic animal health care, many more veterinarians and technicians are being
hired (Crosby 10)
E. Seeing animals suffering is very sad, but it is very satisfying seeing them reach the end of
recovery. That is one of the best parts of the job (Matassa)
1. On the job, it is important to be able to create special bonds with the animals and
gain their trust. On the flip side, a state of professionalism must be maintained, as
the loss of a patient’s life is common. (Matassa)
2. Working with these dangerous animals, it is hard not to get emotionally attached
to them. Unfortunately, when they must be euthanized or don’t make it, it can be
very difficult. (Matassa)
Marchant 5
Passion for Wildlife
Horror ran through my veins, blood rushed to my head, and my heart sank.
Pretzel, my faithful companion was just bitten by Beau, our newly introduced and frisky
Welsh corgi. Pretzel was an adorable California desert tortoise, no bigger then the size of
a gold ball, and his shell was now bleeding into my hand. For months I nursed my
cherished pet back to health, and soon perceived that this was what I had a strong and
undeniable passion for. My love for animals extends the lengths of my many pets at home
and can be seen throughout my daily life. I always remember visiting the San Diego Zoo
or Wild Animal Park and personifying the zookeepers as containing the essence of a
“super hero”, but I wanted more than just interacting with the animals, I wanted the
satisfaction of helping them. Another passion I strongly claim is my interest in biology
and science in general. Curiosity has always been one of my most pronounced traits, and
this usually fuels my thirst for knowledge in the field of science. Putting two and two
together, my mind set out to become not only a veterinarian, but also a vet with an
occupation at a zoo. At the age of fifteen, I realized, having much more growing up and
maturing to do, that my passion may change later in my high school career. I truly believe
that becoming a veterinarian at a zoo would be the job of a life time and become an
extremely fulfilling career.
Obtaining an occupation that involves your hobby, love, or passion in life is
something most people only dream of! Personally, I wish to further understand the
profession of a zoo veterinarian for many a reasons. First of all, I have a strong dedication
for assisting in animal care and experiencing more of the world. Through my research
and aid in animal care I would also assist in the rehabilitation of species in their natural
environment. Becoming a vet would also fuel my never-ending hunger for knowledge,
Marchant 6
and energize my natural curiosity into something productive. As well as securing a
sensible education and experience, the occupation of a zoo veterinarian is a financially
sound job. With the correct education and internships, finding and keeping a job should
be fairly accessible, but only with hard work and passion. As a veterinarian that subsides
within a zoo, I would have very little change in my location, due to the fact that all the
patients remain in the zoo, but still contain major potential for travel. This occupation
could be amazing for my constantly changing lifestyle. Lastly, gaining the satisfaction of
helping animals as well as an adventurous lifestyle would be a dream come true. Hard
work and much dedication must be contributed first, but my goal to become a zoo
veterinarian is not completely impossible.
From past experience and research, I am actually surprised on how little
information I know on zoological medicine and the actual tasks performed by
veterinarians in zoos. Fortunately, through my prior knowledge, I know that zoologist
veterinarians aid in improving animal’s health when injured or sick, as well as controlling
the spread of disease throughout the park. As well as encouraging the animals in one zoo,
a vet can be asked to help and conducting research assisting in the transportation of an
animal, and even teaching or lecturing to other veterinarian students. Working in the field
of research and rehabilitation of multiple exotic animals, not only pays fairly well, but
also is an adventurous and fulfilling occupation to obtain.
My imagination tends to run a little wild on what I imagine to be an exotic life
style of a zoologist and veterinarian. I would imagine due to the animals of exotic nature
that the job its pretty physically demanding, as well as very unpredictable. I am also up
for fun or a good adventure, which I would believe this job would include. Additionally
Marchant 7
to animal health care and disease prevention, I would hope I could be included in
research project or other fields of science such as ecology, animal sociology, etc.
When completing my research project I must remember to keep an open mind,
while simultaneously investigating the many questions I have. To complete a detailed
report of the occupation of a zoo veterinarian; I will proceed with creating a Pros and
Cons list to the life style of the occupation and the resources needed to achieve this goal.
I also intend to answer many of my questions such as “What are the credentials needed
for a zoo veterinarian?” “What are their main tasks at work?” and “What is their personal
lifestyle like and how is it affected by the job?”.
Love and passion are not the only things needed to become a veterinarian in
zoological medicine, for hard work and informative information are needed as well. This
is why I wish to proceed with the research project in not only expanding my mind with
more knowledge of the occupation, but also painting a clearer roadway for my future.
Marchant 8
Part II: Search Journals
Entry #1: The Interview Struggle
My project has been somewhat of a struggle so far, but in fact very rewarding.
Finding valid sources and information from veterinarians who work in zoo or aquariums
was more difficult then I predicted. Many of my findings were from anonymous
websites, personal journals, and simplistic summaries. So far, I have my interview set up
with one of the lead veterinarians at Sea World Parks! I hope he pulls through and
contacts me, because getting an extremely informative primary source like that would be
very influential to my over all research report and general understanding of the
occupation.
Entry #2: A New Interview Subject
Unfortunately, Dr. Todd Schmitt, Senior veterinarian at Sea World, would not
contact me back, so I am forced to find a new interview now. I plan to contact the San
Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, but if they are not able to conduct an interview I will
contact an old friend of mine. She works at a marine wildlife rescue and rehabilitation
center. It’s not exactly what I was hoping for, but this is a good lesson to be learned.
Make sure to always have a back up, and never procrastinate until the last minute. Also, I
began completing my flashcard of research this week. I am very excited about the cards
because completing the, although tedious work, helps me really dig down to the core of
the reading material and fully understand the occupation of a zoo veterinarian.
Marchant 9
Entry #3: A New Viewpoint
I am very happy to say that I was able to find an interview, and not only any
interview, a one on one meeting with the lead director of a marine rescue foundation!
Although he is not officially a veterinarian, he is a veterinarian technician and has many
years of experience with a wide range of animals and fields of medicine. Also, today
while further conducting my research on the career of a zoo veterinarian, I discovered
two different sources that made me actually consider whether or not I wish to pursue this
occupation. One was from bridges.com and the other an interview with Dr. Carlos
Sanchez (the first Latin America to be accepted into a Zoological Residency in the US).
The fact that conflicted my emotions was the long hours, and little pay. After 4 years of
college, 4 years of vet school, a 1-2 year internship, and a 4 year residency I would hope
that the pay would improve enough to enjoy my life comfortably. But I do have a string
passion for this, and I do believe I contain the discipline and determination it takes to
become a zoo veterinarian.
Entry #4: The Financial Role
As I continue to gather many different sources about zoological medicine and
veterinarians who work in zoos, I continue to earn more about the financial side of the
occupation. I am very blessed in that money is usually not a big problem for me, as I
work and pay for many of my own personal expenses, but I have begin to give some
thought into what this job is going to cost. I do have a true passion for science as well as
a strong love for animals, but schooling is going to be quit a “monster” to pay for. After
studying sciences at a college for four years, veterinarians are required to complete four
more years at a Vet School. Contributing to the education, if you wish to work in a zoo,
aquarium, etc. then your must complete an internship (with no or little pay) and then a
Marchant 10
residency. I am a hard working with lots of discipline and determination, so the many
years of education are not a concern for me, but the payment of the school is. During this
entire process I must be able to maintain a steady job to pay for my personal living
expenses, food, cloths, etc. Again, with only 2,000 veterinarians in the U.S. who work
full time at a zoo, an occupation may be difficult to obtain. This again makes me question
whether or not I wish to pursue this career pathway.
Entry #5: Finally!
I am very excited to say that I have just conducted my interview for the project!
After struggling along with finding someone who would give me very information on my
extremely specific topic, I was happy to see the interview go very well. I conducted the
interview on Tuesday, April 29th at 3:45pm with Mr. Keith Matassa, the Executive
Director at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. He was very educated, informative, and
over all very friendly. Even though he is not a veterinarian himself, he was very well
informed on the topic and gave me a good insight on what their duties are. I am looking
into working as a veterinarian in a zoo or aquarium but after my inspirational interview I
may want to even consider working at a wildlife rescue or with many life saving or
rehabilitation programs for the animals. After the interview I have not only found a new
inspiration for my options in the futures, but also contain a new outlook on what career
path I wish to take.
Entry #6: Outline
Today I started my very first section of my outline. Before even starting my
outline I first organized my notecards into my three different burning questions and then
sorted them on how I was going to structure my outline. One thing I am very excited
about it writing my essay because of many reasons. First of all, I feel very confident in
Marchant 11
my over all knowledge of veterinarians who work at zoo, aquariums, and wildlife
rescues. Secondly, I am very thankful that I did my research very thoroughly and created
my notecards with many different useful details. I also color-coded all of the cards,
making the shorting very easier. Over all, the entire process was actually quite enjoyable
if you are able to properly manage your time as I did. I am realizing more and more than
time management is a key aspect of the I-Search project and procrastination only leads to
long nights and sloppy work.
Entry #7: San Diego Zoo
As I continue the process of writing my essay and picking out information from
my outline, more positive new has come in! Even though it is a stretch, this week the San
Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park contacted me about getting an interview. Although I
already have the one required interview for the I-Search project, with Executive Director
Keith Matassa of the PMMC, I thought to myself “why not gain more information on the
job!”. Even though the email said that they would direct my message to the proper
executive of the department that is not a complete guarantee I will get the interview. I
would be very thrilled to have another interview, because I can broaden my view on the
occupation of a zoo veterinarian and get information from a primary sources. Although
Keith was very informative, he worked exclusively with seals and marine life, and
worked more of a full time desk job as well. The San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park
may be a little more accurate to my topic.
Entry #8: Essay Completed
I have finally finished my best draft of my Part III essay and my Works Cited
Page. The essay was extremely simple with the help of my detailed outline, and my
newly gained knowledge on the topic. As I continue to edit the essay and constantly make
Marchant 12
improvements, I am very pleased with how I answered my three burning questions! My
questions were:
1. What are the duties of a vet in a zoo, aquarium, wild life center, etc.?
2. What are the credentials needed for this occupation?
3. What is the life style of a zoo veterinarian (pay, travel, physical demand, etc.)?
Each question was answered in my essay in full detail, but as I continue to edit the one
thing my essay is lacking is personal commentary. This is one of the hardest things for
me to do when writing a formal research paper. I continually struggle with adding my
own thoughts and evaluations into my essay, as the paper usually evolves into more of a
bland informative essay, rather than an exciting thought provoking piece of literature.
Entry #9: What Does My Future Hold?
As we begin to near the end of our I-Search Project I can’t help but look back at
how much this project has prepared me for my future education. I believe that gaining
experience in how to properly cite sources, conduct a formal interview, and write a well
rounded research paper are all extremely important skills to appertain for not only my
high school and college education, but also for my future careers. Through the process of
writing my paper and gathering information, my choices for college and education of
expanded, as I know realize that with good grades and hard works comes options from
you to choose from! When I graduate I want to have as many options possible, as to
prevent limiting myself to a specific school, major, or field of education.
Entry #10: The Final Cut
Concluding with my final search journal, I continue to edit and revise my I-Search
Project. One thing I have not only learned through conducting this project, but also in
Mrs. Morris English class is how to properly edit and revise my essays. I always thought
Marchant 13
that once an essay was written and spell checked that it was considered “done” and just
pushed to the side, but an essay is never finished. Writing, even amazing and famous
pieces of literature, can always be changed and revised. I have always had a problem with
spell checking my essay and one technique I have found to be useful was to actually read
my writing aloud, and truly listen to the words I put down on paper. Even though the tone
most people write with is not how they usually speak, reading my writing out loud,
allows me to listen to sentence variety, word choice, and the overall flow of the essay.
One thing in particular I liked about writing the search journals is the freedom of
expression I could use throughout the entries. The journals were written less formally and
I was able to tell the “story” of creating my I-Search Project and the emotions I felt as I
went along. Now that the project is coming to a close I have a slight feeling of sadness as
my research is finally being concluded, yet I also feel happiness and clarity about my
future for college, careers, and life.
Marchant 14
Aiding Exotic Creatures
Horror ran through my veins, blood rushed to my head, and my heart sank. The
faithful, family companion was being gnawed and mangled by Beau, our newly
introduced, frisky Welsh corgi. Pretzel was an adorable California Desert Tortoise, no
bigger then the size of a golf ball, and his shell lay cracked and bleeding in the palm of
my hand. For months I nursed the cherished pet back to health, and soon concluded that
the strong and undeniable passion for animals I felt could one day become my career. As
years progressed, my love for animals advanced beyond the lengths of the family pets
and soon transformed into a way of life! One memory I recall is visiting the San Diego
Zoo and personifying the zookeepers as containing the essence of a “super hero”, but I
wanted more than just interacting with the animals, I wanted the satisfaction of helping
them. Another unique characteristic I possess is an enthusiastic interest in biology and the
sciences. Curiosity has always been one of my most prominent traits, and it usually fuels
my thirst for knowledge in the field of science. Putting two and two together, my mind
set out to become not only a veterinarian, but also a vet with an occupation in a zoo. At
the age of fifteen, I realize having much more growing up and maturing to do, that my
passion may change later in my high school career. Becoming a veterinarian at a zoo
would be the job of a lifetime and an extremely fulfilling career. Before considering the
position in this field, it must be taken into consideration the unpredictability of the job,
the four to ten years of education needed, and the busy schedule or physical demand.
To begin with, veterinarians must always be prepared for the job’s
unpredictability. Suzan Murray, chief veterinarian at the Smithsonian’s Nation Zoo in
Washington D.C., explains how working in a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife center is very
Marchant 15
different than working with domestic animals, as there is a much higher risk for health
problems. Veterinarians must learn how to quickly, efficiently, and accurately diagnose
patients, as these creatures may range in size, species, temperament, illness, etc. Each day
the job can differ in patients, treatment, and care, so experts must always be alert and on
the top of their game, because the animals depend on medical care in order to survive and
flourish in captivity. Executive Director, Keith Matassa of the Pacific Marine Mammal
Center, reveals his past experience by expressing how most vets may be on call 24/7 and
may be expected to return to their facility if a patient is in need of immediate medical
attention. As well as being undoubtedly busy, veterinarians who work with exotic
animals must be quick thinkers and confidant when making decisions with the animals.
As an experienced teacher myself, educating students of all ages in martial arts, I could
confidently say, I have attained the mind of a fast and intelligent thinker. I believe
instincts play a large role in achieving the characteristics of a strong leader, but no ruler
can make decrees without their advisers.
Many of the everyday, “run-of-the-mill” decisions made by the veterinarians are
not executed alone, as they may involve many different specialists. The assistance needed
may range from the skills of a Zookeeper, to the knowledge of a Veterinary Technician.
On special occasions, a veterinarian will even consult human physicians, as animals
closely relate to homo sapiens’ basic anatomy. Teamwork is a vital aspect of a zoo
veterinarian’s everyday life (Crosby 10). Unfortunately, I would consider myself an
extremely independent worker as well as an introvert, as this may influence job options in
the future. Working on my social skills and team interactions is an excellent goal to strive
for, not just for High School or to become a veterinarian, but also for obtaining any kind
of occupation after college. Scott E. McDonald, a resident in zoological medicine at
Marchant 16
University of California- Davis’ veterinarian school, remarks how the zookeepers are
very important as they spend the most “one-on-one” time with the creatures. The keeper’s
information and observations of the animals can guide the doctor to diagnose the creature
immediately and accurately. Building a strong bond with the animals’ caretakers can
make the life of a veterinarian much easier. This in mind, I may want to consider the
profession of a zookeeper, because they receive more personal interaction with the
animals. Even though this is a very respected occupation, becoming a zookeeper would
not spark my particular interests in the field of science. One of the most major aspects of
the job that requires teamwork is with safety protocols. Security is the number one
priority for veterinarians with keeping the safety of the doctors as well as the animals in
mind (Dr. Carlos Sanchez). In order to learn all of the information to properly tend to
exotic animals, years of school and hard work must be dedicated first.
One major part of becoming an exotic animal veterinarian is gaining the
credentials needed for the occupation. Finding the right school is very important with an
educationally based career. The first step of becoming a vet in zoological medicine would
be to check what schools are approved by the NAVTA (National Association of
Veterinary Technicians) or any other big name veterinarian association. It is also possible
to consider the career of a Veterinarian Technician, as the require less years of expensive
education. Unfortunately, with lower wages I do not think that the occupation would
benefit me anymore than becoming a fully educated veterinarian (Vet Tech EDU). As
well as checking out the school’s background, veterinarian schools are extremely
competitive, but necessary to attend for at least four years. (Murray) With large amounts
of schooling, the education essential for the job can become very expensive, between
college, vet school, internships, residencies, etc. It is required to have a doctorate in
Marchant 17
veterinary medicine, become licensed by the National Exam (ACZM), and complete at
least 2-5 years experience on the job, before being able to work as a full time exotic
animal veterinarian (Step-by-Step). Usually, an internship and a residency are finished in
order to gain experience and adopt a specialty, such as zoological medicine. (Murray 1)
During an internship or residency, students will work under close supervision of more
experienced veterinarians for one to three years (Crosby 10). After the
internship/residency, doctors are qualified to treat domestic animals and live stock. It is
required to specialize in Wild Animal Health, or Zoological Medicine, before it is
possible to treat exotic life (Dr. Carlos Sanchez). The best way to gain experience is to
volunteer at places such as the local shelter, animal rescue, veterinarian hospital, etc
(Lincoln Park Zoo). Even though I would consider myself very comfortable around
animals, my level of actual medical experience with them is very minimal. Pets are
similar to children in that playing with them can be very entertaining and rewarding, but
they still require “dirty work” and many hours of dedicated time. This career centers on
the care and treatment of animals, and is not for everyone. Doctors contain a firm
presents of passion, determination, and discipline.
Usually the drive to follow this career includes a strong love for animals, and their
overall well-being, at a young age (Veterinary Technician). I myself have found to
always have a solid connection with wildlife and nature, even as a child. Unfortunately,
compassion towards animals is just “the tip of the iceberg”, as there are many different
skills vital to becoming a zoo veterinarian. One of the most important skills is patience
with animals and people, due to the job’s often frustrating and very time consuming
lifestyle. Other skills may include social experience, public speaking, writing skills, and
above all being extremely observant of animals’ behaviors (Matassa). This is where I
Marchant 18
believe my strongest talents will shine, because I am very comfortable with the concept
of public speaking. As well as being comfortable in front of a crowd, observing animal
behaviors’ is something that comes naturally to me. A certain area I may need to gain
experience in is working in group settings, as well as strengthening my patience with
others. Although there is a lot of school, the pay off is great! Working with so many
exciting animals is a rare opportunity little get to experience (McDonald 12).
When considering the position of a veterinarian working at a zoo, aquarium, or
wildlife center. it is important to note the overall life style of the job in order to grasp a
further understanding of the dedication required. Having the opportunity to be “face-toface” with amazing exotic animals would be extremely rewarding as an everyday job.
Olivia Crosby, contributing editors of the Occupational Outlook Quarterly, states,
“Job satisfaction runs high at zoos and aquariums. Perhaps that’s one reason there
usually are more applicants for zoo and aquarium jobs than there are openings” (Crosby
13). A lifestyle is self-explanatory, it’s “a style of living”, and so specializing in this field
of medicine takes much more than just an education. To study intensively in zoological
medicine, not only must there be eagerness towards animals, but also a tenacious interest
in ecology and exotic wildlife (Vet Tech EDU). As a freshman enrolled in basic biology,
I find the material interesting as well as thought provoking. Logical thinking and
scientific information makes sense to me, yet I find it intriguing how there is still so
much in this world that has yet to be explained. Much of my interest and excitement is
rooted in ecology and anatomy of animals on Earth. Wild creatures can be very exciting,
but with adventure comes the potential for injuries (Crosby 14). A serious drawback of
the occupation is that the animals are wild, unpredictable, and can often be dangerous,
attacking if given the chance (McDonald 2). Even though there is a strong risk factor in
Marchant 19
the business, there are many different opportunities offered. The field of veterinarian
medicine spans far beyond simplistic medical work in hospitals, but actually contains
many different specialties and fields.
Wages are also very important to consider in the lifestyle of a zoo veterinarian, as
a person’s yearly income usually determines their living conditions. The average annual
wage for veterinarians is $107,830 while the average hourly wage in the U.S. is $51.84
(Bridges). On the other hand, a Veterinarian Technician, with a zoo specialty, can earn
any where from $42,000- $44,030 annually (Vet Tech EDU). Even though the pay is
smaller, Veterinarian Technicians require less years of schooling, and are still very
involved in the treatment of the animals. I may want to start considering the options I
have financially, as this may prevent me from achieving my goal of becoming a
veterinarian in zoological medicine. Fortunately, compared to other occupations in the
country, veterinarians are paid rather well.
With tremendous wages comes the probability of travel, adventure, and
discovery! As a skilled veterinarian, there are many opportunities to assist in wildlife
protection. Conservationists work with multiple types of species and can often involve a
variety of habitats, so the vets are required to travel frequently (Christenson). Along with
the occupation comes major travel and unpredictability, as the animal care members may
be required to be accessible twenty-four hours a day with traveling to animal rescues, and
treating patients. Fortunately, due to the small number of zoo veterinarians, a tight
community between physicians who work with exotic animals in the country has been
established from coast to coast. Due to the fact that zoo and aquariums have increasing
concerns for basic animal health care, many more veterinarians and technicians are being
hired, as the community of doctors is expanding (Crosby 10).
Marchant 20
Another massive part of the comprehensive lifestyle of a veterinarian, working
with exotic animals, is euthanization or loss of life. Doctors must recognize they work
with patients that may often have lethal wounds or dangerous illness, and are at risk of
sudden death. Seeing animals suffering creates a somber atmosphere, but it is also very
satisfying aiding them to the end of their recovery. That is one of the best parts of aiding
the creatures (Keith Matassa). As I learn more and more about the occupation I begin to
realize this is what it is about. Helping animals and watching them through recovery must
be an incredibly rewarding feeling that I truly wish to experience. I must also keep in
mind that on the job, it is important to create special bonds with the animals and gain
their trust. On the flip side, a state of professionalism must be maintained, as the loss of a
patient’s life is common. While working with these beautiful animals, it is challenging
not to get emotionally attached to them. Unfortunately, when animals are euthanized or
die of their illnesses, it can be very difficult.
Veterinarians specializing in the field of zoological medicine must deal with
extreme unpredictability, at least five to ten years of education necessary, and the
physical demand of a busy schedule. When commencing the process of researching the
profession of an exotic animal veterinarian, my knowledge was very limited and only
based off what I have either seen or heard through the media and technology. Many of
my original assumptions were not very accurate, or consisted of extreme biased for other
outside sources. I imagined an adventurous occupation, filled with multiple types of wild
creatures and new obstacles occurring around every corner. Little did I know, the
immense time, effort, and education contributes to the process of becoming a veterinarian
in zoological medicine. It still amazes me the long years of schooling the veterinarian
must part take in, to even apply for a profession at a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife center.
Marchant 21
Even though my overall view on the job has been altered, it has not changed my opinion
on wanting to become a veterinarian, nor has it lessened my passion in the field of life
sciences. If fact, I believe that through my research, it has strengthened my drive and
determination to pursue this career, or any career in veterinarian sciences. With my
knowledge continually expanding upon the subject of zoological medicine, I must also
take into consideration the skills gained in learning how to properly conduct a research
paper.
Generating my first research paper was not an easy task, as it consisted of a
bountiful number of steps as well as hands on research in the field. Through receiving my
information on the topic I have acquired valuable skills including how to cite sources
used in an essay, create periodical journals of progress, pull out needed information from
a variety of sources, and properly conduct a formal interview. After becoming more
educated on the correct and most efficient way to conduct a research-based paper, my
overall approach to my next upcoming project will be confident in my decisions as well
as choosing sources. As a result of the I-Search project my choice of sources include
more variety, accuracy, and authority in their overall message and information. Through
this paper, I have discovered my weakness in sentence variety as well as commentary, but
have unearthed my skills in time management. As my school career progresses, I realize
my ambitions and goals may change, but I do know that with good grades and hard work
come options. Now I am more informed on the choice of pursuing a career in the field of
veterinarian sciences, and am thrilled to see what my future has in store.
Marchant 22
Works Cited
Christenson, Dawn E. Veterinary Medical Terminology. Philadelphia: Saunders, 1997.
Print.
Crosby, Olivia. "Jobs in Zoos and Aquariums." Wild Jobs with Wildlife: 2-15. Spring
2001. Web. 20 Mar. 2014. <http://www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2001/spring/art01.pdf>.
Garber, Elliot. "Do You Want to Be a Zoo Vet?" Web log post. Elliot Garber: The
Uncommon Veterinarian. WOO Themes. Web. 18 Mar. 2014.
Indeed. Zoo Veterinarian Salary in California. 18 May 2014. Raw data. California,
United States.
MacDonald, Scott E. "On Being a Zoo Vet." On Being a Zoo Vet: 1-11. Web. 29 Mar.
2014.<http://www.scottemcdonald.com/2013art/On%20Being%20a%20Zoo%20
Vet%20lr.pdf>.
Matassa, Keith. "PMMC Executive Director." Personal interview. 29 Apr. 2014.
Murray, Suzan. "On the Job: Zoo Veterinarian." Interview by Cate Lineberry.
Smithsonian. Smithsonian Institution, 1 May 2008. Web. 10 Apr. 2014.
Nalls, Nicole. "Becoming a Zoo Veterinarian: Step-by-Step Career Guide." Education
Portal. 2001. Web. 18 Mar. 2014.
"Overview: Veterinary Technician Specialties (VTS) Guide." VetTechEDU.
VetTechEDU. Web. 18 Apr. 2014.
Sanchez, Carlos, Dr. "Zoo Veterinarian: Dr. Carlos Sanchez." Interview. Kids.gov.
USA.gov, 15 Apr. 2014. Web. 20 Apr. 2014.
"Veterinarians- What They Do." Bridges. XAP, 2013. Web. 18 Mar. 2014.
<https://access.bridges.com/choices/work/WhatTheyDo.do?id=2911310>.
"Veterinary FAQs." Lincoln Park Zoo. World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, 2001.
Marchant 23
Web. 18 May 2014. <http://www.lpzoo.org/conservation-science/sciencecenters/veterinary-services/veterinary-faqs>.
Zoo Vet: Chief Veterinarian at the National Zoo. Perf. Suzan Murray. The National Zoo,
24 Mar. 2010. Web. 9 Apr. 2014.