What is veterinary experience?
In simple terms, veterinary experience is any experience where you work underneath or closely with a veterinarian. This could include being a veterinary technician, shadowing a veterinarian, working as a veterinary assistant, among others.
What is animal experience?
Animal experience is any experience where you work with animals, but without a veterinarian. This could include pet sitting, working on a ranch or farm, volunteering at an animal shelter, among others.
What is the requirement?
The only requirement is for veterinary experience, though animal experience does make you a more well-rounded candidate. VMCAS has no minimum requirement. However, many schools have their own minimum requirements. In order to be considered a competitive applicant, aim for having between 500-1,000 veterinary hours. There is no minimum requirement for animal experience. Find the minimum requirements for vet schools here.
How do I find veterinary experience?
What is research with a veterinarian considered?
Research with a veterinarian is considered research, not veterinary experience. There is a separate section on the application for research.