How much does a Emergency Veterinarian make?
Emergency veterinarians play a crucial role in animal care, often working in high-pressure situations. Their work can be very rewarding, and so can their salaries. The average yearly salary for an emergency vet is $191,621. This can vary greatly depending on factors like experience and location. For those who work in larger cities, the salary tends to be higher.
Here is a look at the salary distribution for emergency veterinarians:
- 6.21% earn less than $110,000
- 15.24% earn between $110,000 and $131,818
- 12.51% earn between $131,818 and $153,636
- 12.51% earn between $153,636 and $175,455
- 26.73% earn between $175,455 and $197,273
- 11.66% earn between $197,273 and $219,091
- 6.90% earn between $219,091 and $240,909
- 0.60% earn between $240,909 and $262,727
- 0.43% earn between $262,727 and $284,545
- 0.51% earn between $284,545 and $306,364
- 1.70% earn over $350,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Emergency Veterinarian?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $228,579
Working in Sacramento offers a unique mix of urban and rural challenges. With several large animal hospitals, you will have opportunities to work with a variety of pets. The city's mild climate makes it easier to manage after-hours and emergency calls.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $216,221
Seattle boasts some of the top veterinary care facilities in the nation. Many hospitals in the area value emergency services, offering a supportive work environment. The city's commitment to animal welfare enhances job satisfaction.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $200,638
In San Diego, animal care is a priority. Many emergency veterinary clinics are well-equipped, offering modern facilities and a vibrant community. The sunny weather makes outdoor pet care more common, adding to the daily variety.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $197,717
Austin is known for its love of pets, creating a high demand for veterinary services. Working here means dealing with a diverse range of cases, from pets needing urgent care to those with less common ailments. The city's tech-savvy culture supports innovative veterinary practices.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $193,333
Jacksonville provides a balanced pace with many large and small veterinary practices. The city's growing pet population ensures a steady flow of patients. A warm climate makes outdoor activities common, which can affect pet health.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $192,441
Denver offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor lifestyles. Many clinics here focus on emergency care, providing advanced medical services. The city's high altitude can present unique challenges and opportunities for veterinarians.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $177,344
Portland is a haven for pet lovers. The city’s focus on animal welfare leads to well-supported emergency services. The lush greenery means many cases involve outdoor injuries. Many clinics offer a supportive and collaborative work environment.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $175,533
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment with a diverse pet population. Many large veterinary hospitals provide cutting-edge care and support. The city’s climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, affecting pet health.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $169,167
San Antonio's vibrant community means a constant need for veterinary services. Many local clinics value emergency care, offering modern facilities and a friendly atmosphere. The city’s warm climate leads to a variety of cases, from heat-related issues to outdoor injuries.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $153,281
Houston's diverse pet population ensures a steady stream of cases. Many large veterinary clinics offer advanced medical services and support. The city’s climate can bring unique challenges, from allergies to heat-related issues.
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What are the best companies a Emergency Veterinarian can work for?

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Veritas Veterinary Partners
Average Salary: $218,095
Veritas Veterinary Partners is a well-known leader in veterinary medicine. They have a strong commitment to high-quality care and offer exciting opportunities for Emergency Veterinarians. Their facilities span across many states, including California, Illinois, and Texas, giving professionals many options.
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VCA Animal Hospitals
Average Salary: $198,550
VCA Animal Hospitals operates one of the largest networks of veterinary practices in the country. They provide top-notch emergency services, and their facilities are equipped with the latest technology. VCA serves areas across the U.S., including New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania.
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Lakefield Veterinary Group
Average Salary: $187,727
Lakefield Veterinary Group offers a supportive environment for Emergency Veterinarians. Their team focuses on providing excellent patient care. They operate in various locations, including Ohio and Michigan, ensuring ample opportunities for dedicated professionals.
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Global Talent Partners
Average Salary: $181,318
Global Talent Partners specializes in placing skilled veterinary professionals in top-tier positions. They offer competitive salaries and support for career development. Their services are available in regions like Colorado and Arizona.
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Ethos Veterinary Health
Average Salary: $172,373
Ethos Veterinary Health is known for its innovative approach to animal care. They offer a range of emergency services and promote professional growth. Their facilities are spread across states such as Massachusetts and Washington.
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PetVet Care Centers
Average Salary: $172,000
PetVet Care Centers is a well-regarded network of veterinary practices. They provide comprehensive emergency services and support for veterinarians. Their locations include Maryland and Virginia, offering diverse opportunities for skilled professionals.
How to earn more as a Emergency Veterinarian?
Becoming an emergency veterinarian can lead to a rewarding career with good earnings. To maximize potential income, focus on these key areas. Improving skills and gaining experience often leads to higher pay. Networking with other professionals also opens up better job opportunities.
Consider these factors to increase earning potential:
- Education and Training: Completing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and gaining emergency medicine experience can lead to higher pay.
- Certifications: Earning certifications in emergency and critical care can boost credentials and income.
- Experience: Working in emergency settings and gaining diverse experience can command higher salaries.
- Location: Working in areas with a higher cost of living or less competition can lead to better pay.
- Networking: Building relationships with other vets and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities and higher earnings.



