Veterinarian Interview Questions

"In my experience as a veterinarian, I've realised that it's important to connect with and care for pet owners while also caring for their pets. When they're scared about the critical situation of their pets, I ensure to spare a few moments to communicate the possible remedies for their pet. I also show of support by directing them to resources that can help them cope or grieve."

"If I suspected an animal is living in abusive conditions, I would ensure to take standard procedures required to document the signs. After confirmation, I would contact the appropriate authorities and report the situation discretely, avoiding any confrontation with the pet owners."

"Euthanasia is a very painful decision to make on behalf of a pet. However, it's one I would advise in certain critical situations where there's little or no chance of helping the pet get past their present condition. Once the client consents to it, I can carry out the procedure in accordance with the standard procedures of the AVMA Guidelines for the euthanasia of animals."

"As a professional, I'm trained and obliged to work with all animals effectively. Nonetheless, I particularly enjoy caring for cats. They're highly sensitive and don't trust you easily. They clearly signal how well you're approaching them, constantly challenging you to interpret their body language and respond to their personality."

"I consider reading, research, and being up to date with current standards and procedures as a crucial part of my professional routine. I read monthly publications on veterinary science and attend the Veterinarians of Canada conference held in Toronto every year."

"I've been fortunate enough to avoid errors leading to fatality in my career. I emphasise honesty, empathy, and accountability and take responsible steps to manage the situation when I make errors that could constitute veterinary malpractise."

"I once treated a cow with brucellosis. I recognised its owners were exhibiting concerning symptoms. Interviewing them revealed the owners weren't aware they could contract the disease by drinking uncooked milk. I then counselled them about the basic things they should know about zoonoses and gave them some literature to read on the subject."

"What I'd do in this situation highly depends on the present financial situation and policy of the clinic. If the clinic rules to put the animals first at all times, I would treat the animal. Otherwise, I would suggest options like soliciting help from nonprofits, crowdfunding, or other fundraising options to the owners."

"I admire how the clinic's dedication to only treating household pets has led to it becoming a respected leader of animal medicine in the community. However, given my background working with bovine and horses, I wonder if, in the future, the clinic could offer visiting veterinary services to expand its clientele and help more animals."

"I recently decided on a diagnosis that conflicted with the opinions of my colleagues. Though I was confident in my assessment, I made sure to carefully consider the other vets' thought processes. The animal's health always comes first, and I only want to communicate accurate information to pet owners. After a productive conversation, my coworker ended up agreeing with me, but we both gained insight from the exchange."

"I always look forward to guiding younger personnel through the challenges of working with animals that have such contrasting, and often strong, dispositions. They remind me of myself when I started practising, and I'm more than willing to help them grow. I encourage vets who are beginning to practise to recognise that some of their nerves about being new might affect their approaches. This awareness often creates much more successful treatment environments."

"Sometimes well-meaning pet owners refuse helpful treatments their pets would benefit from because they misunderstand the ideas of animal rights and animal welfare. I understand these individuals only want to respect their animals, so I don't mind explaining that owning pets for enjoyment is a decision more closely aligned with beliefs about animal welfare than animal rights. They may not realise that many animal rights advocates believe having animals as pets is wrong."

"I believe my first obligation is to care for animals to the best of my ability, respecting owners' relationships with their animals. While my love for animals has driven my career and previous success, I especially value my objectivity. I can remove my personal feelings and opinions when accepting the wishes and decisions owners make, even if I would do differently. This quality enables me to do my best, even in challenging situations."

"On-the-job training has been my primary source of continuing education after veterinary school. However, I'm currently completing a certificate for fear reduction strategies that's teaching me how to handle particularly anxious animals. I believe it's an obligation of mine to continue growing as a professional so that I can better help the animals I treat."

"My most challenging experience as a veterinarian was when a critically ill pet needed surgery that its owner couldn't afford. In that moment, I had to set aside my technical and medical skills and embrace my role as a sympathetic source of guidance. Since then, I've truly appreciated the importance of interpersonal skills in this profession."