To be a Vet?

I went to a local high school year 11 careers day today. I was giving my talk after a marine biology talk that had about 30-40 kids in it. After my talk was a business talk that had 50 or so kids in it. My talk 4. What does that mean? The kids had not even met me to know they should not listen to me.

Recently in the SMH they had the top 10 professions in terms of earnings. Vets are no where near that. In fact as I made the kids today aware a plumber or an electrician earn more than Veterinarians from day dot, even though vets need to study for 6 years now to be qualified.

Being a veterinarian is a wonderful job, but unfortunately a very taxing, hard and potentially unrewarding profession. We work incredibly long hours and have to deal with life and death situations almost on a daily basis. The best thing is that no two days are the same and we get to experience the joy of making animals feel better and the joy of being a part of the human animal bond.

For me personally I have always wanted to be a vet. From the age of 7 my parents would call the dog to find out where I was and invariably the dog was better behaved than me and would come when called. Hopefully, today I was able to impart my love for my profession and my job, whilst being realistic with respect to the pressures of the job and the realities of economics.

If you’re passionate about animals and curious about a career in veterinary care, contact Vet HQ in Darlinghurst or Double Bay to learn more about life as a vet.

To explore how we support Sydney’s pets every day, visit our Emergency Care page. and replace with contact our team today & it will link to contact page.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Dr Geoff Golovsky

Dr Geoff Golovsky is the founder and Director of Vet HQ. Established in 2006, Geoff built a thriving, community-focused practice known for its exceptional care and a close-knit culture. A University of Sydney honours graduate, his career has spanned Australia, the UK, and Thailand. With professional passions in surgery, diagnostic imaging, and client connection,

Geoff believes that great veterinary medicine is built on the values of collaboration, communication, and compassion that define Vet HQ today. When not at work, he enjoys time with his wife Tammy, their three children, and their beloved pets.

Practical Insights from Dr Geoff’s Blog (Darlinghurst & Double Bay)

Becoming a vet takes six years of study and a lifetime of learning.

The profession is emotionally rewarding but comes with financial and mental challenges.

Real passion for animals and people is essential to thrive in veterinary medicine.

If you’re considering a career in animal care, talk to vets who’ve been there and learn what daily practice truly involves.

Key Takeaways

Veterinary work is deeply fulfilling but also demanding, requiring resilience and empathy.

Income doesn’t reflect the years of study or the emotional weight vets carry.

Passion for animals and connection with clients make the profession worthwhile.

At Vet HQ, Dr Geoff’s honesty about the realities of being a vet helps inspire the next generation with both heart and truth.

Book your pet’s appointment today and experience trusted, compassionate care from our dedicated Vet HQ team

FAQs about Becoming a Vet in Sydney

How long does it take to become a vet in Australia?

Vet HQ explains that it takes six years of university study to qualify as a veterinarian, followed by ongoing professional development throughout your career.

Is being a vet a good career choice?

According to Dr Geoff, it’s an incredibly meaningful career for those who love animals and people, but it’s also emotionally demanding, with long hours and significant responsibility.

Do vets earn a high income compared to other professions?

Not typically. Dr Geoff notes that even trades like plumbing and electrical work often pay more initially, despite vets’ longer training periods.

What qualities make a great vet?

Empathy, patience, resilience, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help – not just animals, but their owners too. Vet HQ encourages students to shadow clinics to gain an understanding of the real day-to-day life.

Can I visit Vet HQ to learn more about veterinary careers?

Yes. Vet HQ in Darlinghurst and Double Bay welcomes students interested in observing clinical life and understanding what it takes to work in veterinary medicine.