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Veterinary Shadow Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Veterinary Shadow information

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$41.5K

$71.7K

$104K

How much do veterinary shadow jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 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 is a veterinary shadow?

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.

What 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 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 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.

Can you job shadow a veterinarian?

Yes, aspiring veterinary shadowing involves observing veterinarians in clinics or hospitals to learn about animal care and medical procedures. Most programs require prior permission, and some may ask for health clearances or background checks before participation.

How to find a veterinary shadow?

To find a veterinary shadow opportunity, contact local veterinary clinics or animal hospitals directly to inquire about shadowing programs. Building relationships with veterinarians and demonstrating genuine interest can increase chances, and some programs may require a minimum age or health clearances.
More about Veterinary Shadow jobs

What states have the most Veterinary Shadow jobs?

States with the most job openings for Veterinary Shadow jobs include:

Strategic Group Sales Leader

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Thank you for your interest in Zoo employment and career opportunities, including AmeriCorps! If you share these Core Values, we want to hear from you. By checking this site often, you can learn more about the Zoo and what we have to offer. Search jobs and careers at the Zoo below!

About Diversity and Inclusion at the Cincinnati Zoo

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden CELEBRATES the diversity of our plants & animals, staff, visitors, and community. We believe the Zoo should be a place where everyone can be themselves. We strive for the Zoo to be a place where differences are recognized, welcomed, and celebrated through our culture, processes, programs, and very presence in the community.

Join the Team

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is an equal opportunity employer and accepts employment applications and/or resumes for current open positions only.

Available Positions Food and Retail Available Positions

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Intern Program provides participants with early career experience in a specific department. Interns gain valuable skills through hands‑on training with staff, attending lectures and continuing education courses presented by staff from various departments, and networking opportunities to develop professional contacts throughout the Zoo community.

QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal intern candidate will meet the following requirements:

  • Be 18 or over and interested in pursuing a career in the zoological or botanical field;
  • Hard‑working, highly motivated, professional, and committed to following detailed instructions;
  • Positively approach team‑based, collaborative working environments and engaging with visitors;
  • Comfortable working with and/or handling many different species encompassing all taxa of animals; and
  • Full availability to work the entire intern session and days required.
Working Conditions Schedule & Commitment Stipend Applications Sessions Offered

Roles within the zoological/botanical field are often physical in nature and require a lot of outdoors time and certain health conditions to be met:

  • Regular occurrences of standing for long periods of time, walking, climbing, balancing, and grasping tools or objects
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions (heat, humidity, rain, snow, cold temperatures)
  • Must be able to lift & move 50 lbs without mechanical assistance
  • Internship is conditional upon passing a pre‑start drug & nicotine screen
  • Must provide a negative TB Test result before beginning internship
  • Applicants must provide proof of current medical insurance & maintain insurance for the duration of the internship
  • If applicable to your department, COVID vaccination may be required.

If an internship listed does not have an “Apply Here” link, the internship is unavailable for the current session, please check back during the next application period.

Thank you for your interest! If you have additional questions, please email [emailprotected].

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Veterinary Experiences at Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Veterinary Technician Internship

Need to be a registered veterinary technician or actively enrolled in an AVMA accredited veterinary technology program to be accepted for internship.

Veterinary Shadow Days

This can be a several day experience that may or may not coincide with school requirements. – need to be an enrolled in an AVMA accredited veterinary program – (must be a student in 1st-3rd year of school)

Veterinary Externship

4–8-week externship experience. Must be enrolled in an AMVA accredited veterinary program. These are often scheduled 1-2 years in advance of the externship. Please feel free to inquire if you are in your 2nd or 3rd year of an AVMA accredited veterinary program.

High School Students

We unfortunately do not offer any opportunities currently for high school students. Please reach out once you meet one of the requirements above.

If you meet the above qualifications and are interested in participating in the VETERINARY SHADOW DAYS or VETERINARY EXTERNSHIP, please fill out this form and you will be contacted by our Vet staff to schedule if there is availability.

**If you are interested in the VETERINARY INTERNSHIP – please review the session availability & application process for internships below.

**If the “apply” link is not listed below, the Veterinary Technician internship is filled. Please check back in the next application period for internships.

Veterinary Technician Internship

Objective

Qualifications

Working Conditions & Other Requirements

**Limited housing is available and is located across the street which allows for access to the zoo easily

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