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Hey Future Vets, it's Sophia and Maegen here! We at the FVC understand how difficult it is to get into vet school, and how much effort, thought and planning goes into the vet med career path. That being said, many people end up deciding to investigate or pursue a career that can still align with their passions but isn’t veterinary medicine and still be very successful! There are so many rewarding career options that allow people to work with and benefit animals or people without being a veterinarian. Always remember there is no “right” or “wrong” career path, and any reason you have for choosing a certain path is valid. We are here to support you wherever your journey takes you! This article will focus on alternative careers to veterinary medicine that still involve working with animals, although many may pursue roles in human medicine and/or science. Hope you enjoy it! #1. Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
What does it entail? Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) provide essential support to veterinarians by performing supportive tasks to assist them in their daily tasks. They are the frontline health care workers for animals of all kinds in many types of veterinary specialties. Although most RVTs are working in small animal clinics, some work with large animals, zoo animals or wildlife. RVTs perform diagnostic imaging and laboratory tests, insert catheters, perform injections, assist in surgeries, and much more. Students can apply for the 2-year RVT college program right out of high school. In this program, students will study anatomy, nutrition, microbiology, pathology, clinical skills and more. This career is for you if you:
As of 2025 in Ontario, an average of $26.00 an hour, approximately $40,000 (CAD) annually. This varies based on experience level, location, and whether they are working in a specialized practice. #2. Animal Scientist What does it entail? Animal scientists work to advance worldwide understanding of animals of all kinds, especially livestock, domestic pets and wildlife. They are actively involved in research to enhance animal, human, and environmental health; their goal is to develop innovative resolutions for issues impacting animals worldwide. They often specialize in specific areas of science such as animal biology, zoology, production, nutrition, genetics, and more. However, animal scientists most commonly specialize in agriculture to improve sustainability and welfare for production animals. Students must complete a Bachelor’s degree in an animal related science program. After this, they must complete a Graduate degree, such as a Master's or PhD in animal science or other specialized fields. This career is for you if you:
As of 2026, an average of 48$ an hour, approximately $99,241 (CAD) annually. This varies based on location, experience level, and type of research they do. #3. Animal Behaviorist What does it entail? Animal behaviorists work with clients to manage, modify and prevent behavioral issues in animals of all types; these are most commonly domestic pets, but can be zoo animals or wildlife as well. They are trained in animal behavior and animal learning strategies; this helps them identify the root cause of animal behavioral issues. They can then create a customized treatment for that individual. Students must complete an animal- or psychology-related Bachelor’s degree before completing a certification. They can be certified by organizations such as the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) or the Animal BehaviorSociety (ABS). This career is for you if you:
Between $34,500 and $70,000 CAD. Entry level positions may start closer to the lower end of this range, with salary increasing with the level of specialized expertise or years of experience you have. #4. Animal-assisted Therapist (AATs) What does it entail? Animal-assisted therapists incorporate animals --most commonly dogs, horses or cats-- into human therapy; this is done to improve the patient’s physical, emotional and mental well-being. They introduce trained animals, usually therapy dogs, into therapy sessions or animal-assisted activities. They also work with animal handlers and trainers to ensure that the therapy sessions are benefitting both the patient and the animal. AATs work in different settings including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and prisons. Students must obtain a Bachelor’s degree in a psychology or animal-related field, taking courses such as animal and human behavior, human development, and biology. A Master’s or doctoral degree in clinical psychology, counseling or social work is often required before becoming certified as an Animal Assisted Therapist. This career is for you if you:
Approximately $51,000 to $52,000 CAD, but this is dependent on years of experience, location and advanced certifications. #5. Pet insurance consultant What does it entail? This role blends customer service, insurance expertise, and a passion for animals together. A pet insurance consultant helps owners better understand and manage insurance policies that cover the expenses of owning a pet, especially the cost of veterinary care. They must educate their clients on different insurance plans and their terms and conditions to allow them to make informed decisions. They must evaluate each individual owner and pet’s needs and budget to offer them appropriate insurance products. Also, a pet insurance consultant must be able to foster relationships built on trust with their clients to be successful. This career is for you if you:
The appropriate range is from $40,000 to $65,000 CAD depending on years of experience, location, and whether the role includes sales commissions. At the end of the day, there is no single “right” way to build a life working with animals. Whether you see yourself as a Registered Vet Technician supporting surgeries and patient care, an animal scientist advancing research and sustainability, an animal behaviourist improving the lives of pets and wildlife, an animal-assisted therapist helping people heal through animal connections, or a pet insurance consultant guiding families through important decisions, each path plays a meaningful role in the broad world of animal health and welfare. Each career has its own unique challenges and rewards, and the best part is that you get to find the path that fits your interests and strengths. So, if vet school feels overwhelming or uncertain, don’t worry, you can still follow your passion, help animals, and build a fulfilling career that makes a positive impact every single day. Afterall, animals need advocates in clinics, in laboratories, on farms, in therapy rooms and beyond. Sincerely, Sophia and Maegen References: https://oavt.org/becoming-an-rvt/steps-to-becoming-an-rvt/ https://oavt.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/OAVT-Wage-Earners-31-01-25.pdf https://www.erieri.com/salary/job/animal-scientist/canada https://www.blakepsychology.com/therapy-formats/animal-assisted-therapy/ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/what-is-an-animal-behaviorist/ https://careers.apos-society.org/career/animal-assisted-therapist https://www.ovmapetinsurance.com/ Comments are closed.
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Welcome to the FVC's official blog, the Omnis Animalis! Tune in monthly for helpful and fun posts written by students and industry professionals alike. Our vision for this blog is to best serve future vets with inspiring feature pieces, helpful tips, and updates on exciting events throughout the year!
the authorsMeet the editors of the Omnis Animalis! 
Sophia Di Adamo, Senior Editor
2025-2026
Maegen Eisler, Junior Editor 2025-2026
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