ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Veterinary Shadow Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Extern - Emergency

Centerville, OH · On-site

You will work closely with attending emergency veterinarians, shadow in exam rooms, perform hands-on exams, diagnostics, and procedures whenever possible, and participate in informal rounds with our ...

NVA

Veterinary Extern - Emergency

Centerville, OH · On-site

You will work closely with attending emergency veterinarians, shadow in exam rooms, perform hands-on exams, diagnostics, and procedures whenever possible, and participate in informal rounds with our ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVeterinary Shadow Jobs

Veterinary Shadow information

See salary details

$41.5K

$71.7K

$104K

How much do veterinary shadow jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for veterinary shadow in the United States is $71,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Veterinary Shadows?

Veterinary shadows are individuals, often students or those interested in veterinary medicine, who observe veterinarians during their daily work to gain insight into the profession. The shadowing experience typically involves watching procedures, consultations, and interactions with animals and clients. This opportunity allows participants to learn about the responsibilities, challenges, and skills required in veterinary medicine, and can be an important step when considering a career as a veterinarian. Shadowing can also help fulfill prerequisites for veterinary school applications.

How to find vet shadowing opportunities?

Veterinary shadowing opportunities can be found by contacting local veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or shelters to inquire about observation programs. Additionally, networking with veterinary professionals, joining animal-related organizations, and checking online job boards or internship listings can help identify available shadowing positions; some programs may require a minimum age or health certifications.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect to observe or participate in as a Veterinary Shadow?

As a Veterinary Shadow, you'll primarily observe veterinarians and veterinary technicians as they diagnose and treat animals, perform routine check-ups, and conduct procedures such as vaccinations and minor surgeries. You may also get hands-on experience assisting with animal handling, preparing examination rooms, and learning about proper hygiene and safety protocols. The experience provides an inside look at the daily workflow of a veterinary clinic and helps you understand the teamwork involved in providing quality animal care. This role is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain a realistic perspective on veterinary careers.

What do you do when you shadow a veterinarian?

When shadowing a veterinarian, you observe their daily tasks, including examining animals, assisting with procedures, and learning about animal care and clinic operations. Shadowing provides insight into veterinary practices, often requiring professionalism, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. It is a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand experience in the veterinary field.

What is the rule of 20 in veterinary medicine?

The rule of 20 in veterinary medicine is a guideline used to assess a pet's health, suggesting that a healthy animal's heart rate plus respiratory rate should total around 20 when combined. It helps veterinarians quickly evaluate the animal's condition, especially in emergency or initial assessments. However, individual vital signs vary based on species, age, and health status, so it is used as a general reference rather than a strict rule.

What is the difference between Veterinary Shadow vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary ShadowVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsNo formal credentials required; observational roleLicensed or certified, with formal education (e.g., CVT, RVT)
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, or clinics; primarily observationalClinical settings; hands-on patient care
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for career exploration and gaining experienceFull-time or part-time staff member providing medical support
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Veterinary Shadow roles are primarily observational, allowing individuals to gain exposure to veterinary practices without formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians are trained professionals who perform medical procedures and assist veterinarians. While shadows focus on learning, technicians actively contribute to animal care, often requiring certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Veterinary Shadow, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Shadow, you typically need a genuine interest in animal care, basic understanding of animal behavior, and a willingness to learn, often demonstrated by enrollment in or intent to pursue veterinary studies. Familiarity with clinic protocols, basic medical terminology, and observation of veterinary software or equipment is beneficial. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism help you stand out in this support role. These skills are vital for gaining meaningful experience, ensuring safety, and building a strong foundation for a future career in veterinary medicine.

What else can you do with a vet degree?

A veterinary degree opens opportunities beyond clinical practice, including roles in research, public health, animal shelter management, education, and pharmaceutical development. Veterinarians can also work in regulatory agencies, wildlife conservation, or pursue specialized certifications in areas like surgery or exotic animals.
More about Veterinary Shadow jobs
What states have the most Veterinary Shadow jobs? States with the most job openings for Veterinary Shadow jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Shadow jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Shadow jobs are:
Veterinary Shadow jobs near you
Veterinary Extern - Emergency

Veterinary Extern - Emergency

National Veterinary Associates

Centerville, OH • On-site

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

 

Care Center is a 24/7 emergency and specialty hospital with two locations in Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio. We are excited to offer a unique externship experience for interested veterinary students! Externs work closely with emergency veterinarians in a fast-paced environment, in all aspects of case management, from triage to discharge, and also with other hospital departments.
Our student externship program is flexible, with most students working in two- to eight-week program blocks. We welcome students from all class years and will customize your involvement according to your current knowledge and skill level, while also ensuring you grow and learn. You will work closely with attending emergency veterinarians, shadow in exam rooms, perform hands-on exams, diagnostics, and procedures whenever possible, and participate in informal rounds with our clinicians.


While you will focus on Emergency, you may also work with our other departments while you are here. We currently have the following services:

       Cardiology

       Diagnostic and interventional radiology

Care Center has a positive, inclusive culture that prioritizes learning and growth. Our emergency veterinarians enjoy teaching and will ensure students learn as much as possible throughout their externship. Our team routinely performs advanced procedures, including NG tube, central line, and urinary catheter placement, and our facility offers the most advanced diagnostic equipment, including CT, fluoroscopy, digital X-ray, full in-house laboratory, and ultrasound. While our program prepares all students for emergency situations in any practice type, we will introduce those on an emergency or critical care path to ER Immerse, our post-graduate training program.
Ohio enjoys four midwestern seasons with plenty of entertainment and activities, including the Cincinnati Zoo, hiking, kayaking, and nature center. We are also a beer lovers' hub, with many breweries for touring and tasting. If you like big cities, Cincinnati is only a few hours from major midwestern cities, including Columbus, Indianapolis, and Chicago.

 
 
 
NVA logo

About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

View All NVA Jobs

Apply