Locum vets are those who are employed on a temporary basis while they stand in for absent employees who may be ill, on holiday or on maternity leave. They also provide additional support in areas that need it. Locum vets have been particularly important in times of animal health crisis, such as the swine flu outbreak.
Typically, locum vets will need to prove their experience. It’s therefore advised that they gain at least two years of experience in a permanent position before moving to work as a locum vet.
To succeed as a locum vet, you will need to be the constant lookout for employment opportunities. You should register with a recruitment agency which specialises in placing veterinary surgeons in locum positions.
However, before you ask how to become a locum vet, it’s important to check that it’s the right option for you.
Pros
Flexibility
One of the reasons people choose to become a locum vet is due to the flexibility of the role. This can suit vets with young children, or those who have important responsibilities outside of work. However, work often comes in at the last minute which can cause issues of its own, so it’s important to weigh up both sides.
Good pay
Per day, the pay is actually higher as a locum vet than a permanent vet. This is because it does not offer the same job security and benefits such as holiday pay and sick pay.
Less hours
The amount of hours you work as a locum vet is really down to you but there is the potential to work far less unsociable hours than as a permanent, full-time vet in a practice.
Variety
If you are someone who gets bored easily, you might desire more variety and change that you can get from a permanent position. If this is the case, a locum vet career might be for you. There is also the possibility to travel overseas as a locum vet, provided you have all the relevant qualifications and certifications.
Cons
You may not feel settled
One of the downsides of working as a locum vet is the unreliability. Many people prefer to settle in to a role, and the temporary nature of locuming can feel lonely and isolating for those individuals.
You may feel inexperienced at a new practice
Although the principles of working as a vet are generally the same, the protocols and policies may vary between practices. This can lead to new locum vets feeling overwhelmed and inexperienced when they begin a new position.
You may have to move around a lot
There is a lot of locum vet work available, but it’s not always confined to one space. Locum vets must be prepared to travel to different locations to find new work.
Looking for work? Browse our range of locum vet jobs and locum vet nurse jobs.