4 answers
Breyonna
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
1
Question
Updated
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Business and Vet
If I were going into business or to be a vet what majors would you recommend taking in college?
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4 answers
Joseph Ford
123
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
1st congrats on a great field for study. My background is technical BUT here are some suggestions based on my findings for your start:
Small animal internal medicine.
Large animal internal medicine.
Nutrition.
Small animal internal medicine.
Large animal internal medicine.
Nutrition.
ShaRon Bynum
Program Manager
31
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
ShaRon’s Answer
Congratulations on knowing who you are and who you want to be! That is a big step in directing your path. I would look for a university that has both a Vet school and a Business school. If money is a concern, start at a junior college and earn an Associates Degree in Science and take electives in business. That would set you up for a Bachelors Degree and minimize the cost to you and your family. I would also look at securing a job at a local vet's office; animal shelter; zoo or Pet's Mart Clinic to get some hands on experience working with animals. Seek out a local vet to mentor you as this will be an invaluable relationship as you begin your journey. For the business aspect of your journey, the small business administration is a great resource. Reach out to them and look for a mentor in your local community. Many retired professionals would be more than willing to partner with you to discuss how best to establish your future business that will lay the foundation for your success. It will give them an outlet while providing you with a great source of wisdom and support. Its never too early to start working on creating your business plan and they can help you do that. They can also be a great source on how to fund your enterprise. Good Luck!
James Brickey
Owner
1
Answer
St. Louis, MO
Updated
James’s Answer
For being a Vet, you definitely need to get a veterinarian degree. Many options for Business field...like general business, finance, accounting, and even computer science or Human Resources
Daniel Maynes
Credit Manager
188
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Great question Breyonna!
If you want to start your own veterinarian business I would major in business management with a specialty in veterinarian practice. I would find a university that has programs/degrees that focus on veterinarians in particular. Going to a school that has a vet program I believe is key to starting off on the right foot. Once you obtain your degree some thoughts on starting your own vet practice are below.
1. How long have you worked at a veterinarian practice? At minimum, you would need to work 5 years and build some rapport with clients. By doing so if you leave you have a good chance of some clients following you to your new practice. I would also network with people in the community and you could also work with a local marketing firm to help get your new practice recognized. Another great option is to meet with your local chamber of commerce. Usually, at least once a year they will put on an event to help local businesses meet with the citizens in that area. The best overall method is word of mouth. That is why building your relationship with clients is key to starting your own practice.
2. Can you do anything to set you apart from the competition? This could be extra certifications you could acquire or specializing in large animals. The customer experience is another way to differentiate yourself. I can't tell you how many times my wife and I have picked a business simply because they had excellent Google Reviews. Most people are usually passionate about great/poor service. If you go out of your way to help they will notice and pass that along. If you or your office staff is rude rest assured they will let everyone know to avoid your practice. I know this is simple but 95% of businesses fail in this one key area. Look at brands that people love or have a massive loyalty to. Southwest Airlines, Discount Tire, Toms Shoes, Chick-fil-A. All of these brands have great customer service!
3. How many vet practices are located in a 5-10 mile area? As a pet owner when there is something wrong with our border collie we want to be able to get to our vet fast. Obviously, the less veterinarian practices in your area the more people will come to your office. I am not saying you need to open your practice in the country but be mindful of your location. You can't work 24/7 but having the option for people to contact you or your office after hours for an emergency will give people peace of mind that your/your office is always available and willing to help in a crisis.
I hope some of these items help. Good luck on the journey
If you want to start your own veterinarian business I would major in business management with a specialty in veterinarian practice. I would find a university that has programs/degrees that focus on veterinarians in particular. Going to a school that has a vet program I believe is key to starting off on the right foot. Once you obtain your degree some thoughts on starting your own vet practice are below.
1. How long have you worked at a veterinarian practice? At minimum, you would need to work 5 years and build some rapport with clients. By doing so if you leave you have a good chance of some clients following you to your new practice. I would also network with people in the community and you could also work with a local marketing firm to help get your new practice recognized. Another great option is to meet with your local chamber of commerce. Usually, at least once a year they will put on an event to help local businesses meet with the citizens in that area. The best overall method is word of mouth. That is why building your relationship with clients is key to starting your own practice.
2. Can you do anything to set you apart from the competition? This could be extra certifications you could acquire or specializing in large animals. The customer experience is another way to differentiate yourself. I can't tell you how many times my wife and I have picked a business simply because they had excellent Google Reviews. Most people are usually passionate about great/poor service. If you go out of your way to help they will notice and pass that along. If you or your office staff is rude rest assured they will let everyone know to avoid your practice. I know this is simple but 95% of businesses fail in this one key area. Look at brands that people love or have a massive loyalty to. Southwest Airlines, Discount Tire, Toms Shoes, Chick-fil-A. All of these brands have great customer service!
3. How many vet practices are located in a 5-10 mile area? As a pet owner when there is something wrong with our border collie we want to be able to get to our vet fast. Obviously, the less veterinarian practices in your area the more people will come to your office. I am not saying you need to open your practice in the country but be mindful of your location. You can't work 24/7 but having the option for people to contact you or your office after hours for an emergency will give people peace of mind that your/your office is always available and willing to help in a crisis.
I hope some of these items help. Good luck on the journey