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Veterinary cover letter example

Cover letter header: How to reach you

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter body, how to close a veterinary cover letter: conclusion and sign-off.

Although pets are notoriously reluctant to visit them, veterinarians keep our dogs, cats and other animals healthy, vaccinated and spayed or neutered. If this is your field, writing a standout veterinary cover letter is an essential step to getting your next job.

The advice in this writing guide is paired with a veterinary cover letter example that can be modified for your own use. What we’ll cover: 

• The correct format for structuring your veterinary cover letter
• Persuasive pointers for each section of your veterinary cover letter: header, greeting, introduction, body and conclusion
• Avoiding common cover letter mistakes

For more cover letter writing and formatting tips, take a moment to review some of Resume.io’s 180+ other cover letter examples.

Additional cover letter examples and writing guides for medical occupations can be found here:

• Caregiver cover letter sample
• Physical therapist cover letter sample
• Lab technician cover letter sample
• Doctor cover letter sample
• Occupational therapy cover letter sample
• Pharmacy technician cover letter sample
• Pharmacy assistant cover letter sample
• CNA cover letter sample
• Healthcare cover letter sample
• Medical cover letter sample
• Physician assistant cover letter sample
• Veterinary assistant cover letter sample
• Doctor assistant cover letter sample
• Phlebotomist cover letter sample
• Carer cover letter sample
• Medical assistant cover letter sample
• Lab assistant cover letter sample

Best format for a veterinary cover letter

Like all cover letters, the one you write as part of your veterinary job application should be structured to include these essential sections:

• Introduction
• Sign-off and signature

Harried vet hiring managers will appreciate the favor of you sticking to these simple cover letter ground rules. 

• Tailor to a tee. Every cover letter must fit the employer’s specific hiring needs.
• Less is more. A power-packed cover letter can still be short — never more than 400 words on one page.
• Pay close attention to the design and layout of your veterinary cover letter, making sure it has a professional, eye-pleasing look, with appropriate use of fonts , margins, and white space . Do not use a tiny font size to try to cram a wordy letter onto one page.
• Strive for a balanced look, avoiding a page layout that is full of text at the top and blank at the bottom. Keep your paragraphs of more or less equal length, and avoid big blocks of unbroken text.

Our comprehensive cover letter writing guide contains more detailed advice for writing and formatting your veterinary cover letter. 

Our writing tips for each separate part of your cover letter will refer to the veterinary cover letter sample below, which you can modify.

Dear Dr. Winsome,

As a veterinarian with six years of reptile care experience, I believe my specialization and commitment to care standards for even the smallest animals would add to the Holt Clinic’s outstanding reputation in the field.

My veterinary career has brought experience in diagnosing, treating and performing surgery on all major household pets. Much of my experience is with dogs, cats and rabbits, although I have a particular affinity for snakes and reptiles. Your state-of-the-art reptile care facility is a key reason for my interest in the role.

For the past six years, I have spent my summers volunteering in the reptile house of the Fort Worth Zoo to help the veterinary team tackle its most difficult cases. Whether the issues are caused by improper enclosure temperatures, Vitamin A deficiency or respiratory problems, much of my time is spent educating as well as treating.

While surgery for reptiles is rare, I have performed an average of 20 procedures a month on a variety of animals, and am an expert in the latest surgical techniques. My success rate of 96 percent was higher than the state average of 84 percent. I always make an effort to engage with owners before their pet goes into surgery to explain why we are taking action and patiently answer any questions. I find that once owners better understand their pets, they are much less likely to bring the animal in for a recurrence of common issues.

More than 40 letters of recommendation from clients and pet owners attest to my expertise, experience, and passion for the career I chose.  I hope for the opportunity to visit your clinic to discuss how my skills might add to your renowned reptile veterinary team.

Simona Jakes

A distinctive cover letter header visually sets you apart from other job contenders in a professional “brand” sense. As a modern version of what used to be the typed letterhead portion of correspondence in pre-digital times, the header prominently displays your identifying details to eye-pleasing effect: your name, profession, phone number, and email. Add links to your LinkedIn profile, website and any other professionally relevant online information or social media.

Have you produced, or been featured as an expert source, in any YouTube videos on animal care topics? Written any web blogs? Be sure to add an online portfolio link in your cover letter header.

A well-designed header will automatically make your cover letter text look more professional and inviting to read by creating white space in between. Double the impact with matching headers on your resume and cover letter. Then it’s obvious both documents belong to you, and your contact information is easy for duly impressed recruiters to find later when inviting you for an interview.

Goal of the cover letter header: Acts as a branding element to create a memorable first impression when recruiters are drawn to your identifying information.

The cover letter greeting, also known as a salutation, should usually start with the word “Dear,” followed by “Mr.,” “Ms.” or “Dr.” and the hiring manager's last name of the hiring manager. 

Always try to find out the actual name of the person processing job applications for the veterinary position job you’re seeking. In all likelihood, that won't be difficult if it's a vet clinic position. It might take some sleuthing if the hiring organization is large — for instance, a government department or college faculty — or you are applying through a recruiting agency. But if it's impossible to identify any individual to address by name in your cover letter, use a more generic salutation like “Dear Happy Pet Veterinary Clinic” or “Dear Veterinary Hiring Team,”

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Addressing the recipient by name sets the right professional and personal tone to form an immediate direct connection.

This is where you lock the connection you just made in the greeting. Your cover letter introduction must grip the reader’s attention without letting go. By hitting just the high notes, these opening lines will compel further reading. 

To make your cover letter introduction especially engaging and relatable, name the hiring organization and comment on something you find impressive or intriguing.

Confine your cover letter introduction to a few captivating statements, leading with your most impressive job qualifications, whether that’s your years of experience in the field, your education or something else. Cite talents, interests, motivations, and achievements that match what this employer needs. “This is what I can do for you” should be the basis for connecting your past animal health contributions to your future potential.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Appeal to the employer’s hiring needs by stressing compatibility with your strengths and goals as a veterinarian.

Below is the greeting and introduction from our veterinary cover letter sample.

The central part of your cover letter, known as the body, should present the meat and potatoes of your case. It’s the recruiter’s reward for reading past the introduction and could help you secure a short list spot. This section usually focuses on work experience, though it may mention education and special skills as well. 

Try to mention why you want to work for this employer in particular so it's obvious that you aren’t just e-blasting the same boilerplate cover letter to multiple employers. 

Reinforce that you are thoroughly familiar with the target job requirements by incorporating tangible, relevant examples of your veterinary success stories. Quantify with facts and figures wherever possible when describing beneficial outcomes that are sure to resonate with your next employer. For instance, how many specialized procedures did you perform per week (or month), using which techniques or equipment, to achieve what success rate percentage on average? Is there a particularly difficult case you could mention as an example of overcoming challenges?

Goal of the cover letter body: Build the recruiter’s confidence in your ability to provide excellent veterinary care.

Check out the body section from our veterinary cover letter example below.

The conclusion of your cover letter — the final paragraph — is where you reiterate your interest in the veterinary job opportunity and why you are an ideal match. It should include a call to action in which you tell the hiring manager that you look forward to a response. Be sure your tone is not demanding or presumptuous, but do make it clear that you’d really like to follow up.

The sign-off, sometimes called a complimentary close, is the line that says “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” “All my best,” “Thanks so much” or the like. Add a space below this and type your full name. 

Goal of the cover letter closing: End on a confident, upbeat note with a call to action implying some response from the hiring team is expected.

See our the conclusion of our veterinary cover letter sample below.

There is plenty of advice out there in terms of writing a cover letter, so we thought that we would summarize it into a simple do and don’t format.

Common cover letter mistakes to avoid 

Being in a profession where life-or-death outcomes are at stake, you know more than most about the importance of mistake prevention on the job. That sets the bar especially high for avoiding preventable missteps in your job application documents. Particularly in your cover letter, which recruiters are likely to look at first, just one careless error could at best raise eyebrows, and at worst be a dealbreaker.

These are some of the most common cover letter mistakes to avoid.

• Typos, misspellings, grammatical gaffes, and other writing mistakes are unacceptable in a cover letter. Don't rely solely on spell-check and word use apps like Grammarly. Enlist at least one proofreader qualified to spot errors.
• Sending the same generic cover letter to all potential employers sends a message that you're not taking their job opportunity seriously enough to custom-tailor your approach.
• Limited page space makes it imperative to omit information such as irrelevant hobbies and interests.
• An unattractive, poorly formatted layout and design can immediately turn off the reader, making your cover letter a write-off.

Save yourself time and stress by leaving your cover letter design and formatting details up to us. Using a field-tested cover letter template from Resume.io’s collection, along with our cover letter builder tool, lets you concentrate on job-winning wording.

Key takeaways for a veterinary cover letter

• Think of your veterinary cover letter as a written handshake (or paw shake!) that enables you to connect with the hiring manager on a more immediate, direct and personal level than what a resume allows.
• Each cover letter part serves its own purpose in reinforcing your case for being an excellent veterinary hire. Follow proper cover letter structure to make sure you’ve covered all the bases you need to.
• Try to quantify the accomplishments you cite in the body of your cover letter.
• Take every error-proofing measure possible, including a careful review by more than one person qualified to spot goofs.

Best of luck in our job search. Woof!

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Veterinarian Cover Letter Examples & Guide

Create a standout veterinarian cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Are you looking to apply for a job as a veterinarian? Our Veterinarian Cover Letter Guide is here to help you! Our guide contains helpful advice on how to write a customized cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition. We'll also provide samples and templates to get you started.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

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Veterinarian Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the Veterinarian position with your company. With a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and over 10 years of experience in the profession, I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this job.

In my current role as a veterinarian at XYZ Animal Hospital, I have been able to demonstrate my expertise in providing medical care to animals, as well as educate pet owners on animal health and wellness. Through my years of experience, I have acquired extensive knowledge in diagnosing and treating a variety of animal diseases and conditions. I have also developed strong communication skills to effectively explain complex medical information in a way that pet owners can understand.

I have a proven record of providing excellent client service and building strong relationships with pet owners. I am experienced in performing a wide range of veterinary procedures, from routine vaccinations to more complex surgeries. I have a deep understanding of animal anatomy and physiology, and am up-to-date on the latest medical advances and treatments. I am also proficient in using a variety of veterinary software programs.

As a highly motivated and compassionate veterinarian, I believe I would be a great addition to your team. I am confident that I possess the knowledge, skills, and experience required to make a positive contribution to your organization.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to further discussing my qualifications and how I can be an asset to your team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Veterinarian Cover Letter?

• A veterinarian cover letter is a critical document in the process of applying for a veterinary job.
• It is the first thing a potential employer will see and gives you an opportunity to make a good first impression.
• A cover letter allows you to highlight your skills and experience and explain why you are the best candidate for the position.
• It also allows you to discuss your passion for helping animals and dedication to providing quality veterinary care.
• Having a well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview or having your application discarded.
• It is important to take the time to craft a cover letter that is tailored to the specific job you are applying for and showcases why you are the perfect candidate for the position.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Start with a strong opening sentence that captures the reader's attention and highlights your professional qualifications and experience.
• Include the name of the position you are applying for and how you heard about the opportunity.
• Explain why you are the ideal candidate for the position, using concrete examples of your skills and experience.
• Highlight any certifications or licenses you hold that make you an even more attractive candidate for the job.
• Discuss your past experiences working with animals and how those experiences have prepared you for the position.
• End your letter with a call to action that encourages the reader to contact you for an interview.
• Be sure to use a professional, yet friendly, tone throughout the letter.
• Proofread your letter for any spelling or grammar errors.

What's The Best Structure For Veterinarian Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Veterinarian resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Veterinarian cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Veterinarian Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

As a highly skilled and experienced veterinary professional with a strong background in providing medical care and treatments for animals, I am confident in my ability to make a valuable contribution to your team.

My experience includes diagnosing medical conditions, performing medical procedures, administering medications, and providing routine preventative care and treatments. Additionally, I have a strong understanding of animal anatomy and physiology, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with pet owners and staff.

My key strengths include:

• Compassionate Care: I am passionate about providing the highest quality of care for animals, and strive to ensure that each animal receives the best treatment available.
• Detailed Documentation: I am highly organized and detail-oriented, and understand the importance of accurate and up-to-date medical records.
• Problem Solving: I have a strong ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions, and provide solutions to any issues that may arise.

I possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Illinois and a valid state license. I am also a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, and have completed a variety of continuing education courses.

I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this position and I look forward to discussing my qualifications with you further. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to arrange an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Veterinarian Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Not addressing the letter to a specific person or organization.
• Failing to mention specific veterinary experience or qualifications.
• Using an unprofessional email address.
• Including too much personal information.
• Including typos or grammatical errors.
• Using a generic cover letter template.
• Not demonstrating knowledge of the organization.
• Not providing enough detail to demonstrate interest in the position.
• Sending a cover letter that is too long or too short.

Key Takeaways For a Veterinarian Cover Letter

• Highlight your qualifications and professional experience.
• Explain why you would be a good fit for the role.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the veterinary profession.
• Show your enthusiasm for the job and the organization.
• Outline relevant certifications and qualifications.
• Be concise and to the point in your cover letter.
• Proofread your cover letter to ensure accuracy.
• Mention any awards or accomplishments.
• Create an attention-grabbing opening sentence.

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How To Write A Resume And Cover Letter For A Veterinary Job

Want to know how to write resumes and cover letters for veterinary jobs?

You’re in the right place.

Although writing a cover letter and resume for a veterinary job can take a lot of time, in this article we have created a comprehensive guide for writing an amazing application.

Drawing from Dr. Dave Nicol’s extensive experience as a vet, practice employer, and hiring expert, we give you the best tips and tricks for writing an amazing veterinary resume and cover letter.

If you want to really ace that application, we also recommend listening to this podcast below before writing.

How to Write a Veterinary Resume

A resume is typically the first thing an employer sees and therefore is incredibly important.

The typical advice to those writing a resume is not to go above two pages. Although this is standard, Dr. Nicol believes that this advice may be flawed.

In a time when there are few applicants around, it is highly unlikely that a potential employer will discard your application based on length alone.

‘Having reviewed hundreds of resumes as a hiring consultant for a number of hospitals, I can tell you that detail-focused vets have a hard time writing short resumes, and in a job where attention to detail is a skill to be prioritized, I personally look for a slightly longer resume’.

Design-wise, going for a professional/sleek design is preferable. The appearance of a resume isn’t too important (compared to the content). But if you’re keen to make a stand-out impression, go check out this guide here on resume design.

Tip: When designing your resume, keep the company that you’re applying for in mind. 61% of hiring managers consider customizing a resume the best way to boost an applicant's chance of getting hired.

How to Structure a Resume

Structurally, a resume should include the following sections:

Address/contact details

A personal summary

Relevant education

Relevant experience

Extracurricular activities/qualifications

For a visual example of what an amazing resume might look like, check out this resume cheat sheet here.

How to Write an Amazing Personal Summary

Whilst it can be easy to overlook your personal summary, that’s a huge mistake. It’s important to get this section right, as this is the only part of your resume whereby you can directly address the reader.

Creating a sense of who you are (and what you have to offer!) is key to enticing the reader to check out your cover letter.

First, introduce yourself to the reader. Adding a flair of personality here is good, as it gives the employer a sense of who you are, and whether you would align with the practice's values.

Once you have done this, write a short summary of your relevant experience. Try to demonstrate your skills through your experience, for example:

‘Shadowing Dr. X at my local veterinary practice gave me great insight into what effective client communication looks like, improving my interpersonal skills’.

Finish your personal summary with a line on what specifically you like about the job/practice, to display your enthusiasm for the role.

Work Experience, Education, and Extracurricular Activities

In the work experience section, it is key to keep it short and to the point.

In the headers, include dates, job titles, and company names. Briefly describe what you did during the role and what you achieved/gained during this time.

If you can relate the skills and experience to the skills highlighted on the job application, even better!

List your university and qualifications. Don’t worry about high school grades, they won’t be relevant anymore.

For work experience and extracurricular activities, only include the roles which are relevant.

Whilst it can be tempting to list every activity and job you’ve ever had, this is unnecessary and will waste the reviewer’s time.

Resume Do’s

Keep it clear, simple, and concise. Check spelling and grammar thoroughly (some employers will immediately disregard you if you have any) and outline headers clearly.

Make sure you are demonstrating the desired skills and values throughout. If you are applying through an agency (which might not be a great move), check whether your resume is optimized to go through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) , using a tool such as this one.

Resume Don’ts

Whilst it is good to demonstrate how your skills match those outlined in the job specification (as highlighted above) avoid writing what you think the employer wants to hear.

This will not only sound disingenuous but will also cause problems in the long run – as you risk getting a role you’re not suitable for. For the benefit of both you and your employer, it is much better to be true to yourself and honest about your values and skills.

Also, avoid using email names that look unprofessional, and be conscious of short work periods that you list on your resume, as this could potentially indicate something went wrong at your last job.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Veterinary Job

Generally, a cover letter should be about 250-300 words long. Although this isn’t a hard rule (it will depend on the employer), according to an Orange County Resume Survey, almost 70% of employers preferred a shorter cover letter. Suffice to say that you should try to say what needs to be said in as few words as necessary.

Again, whilst there are no hard rules, a cover letter generally consists of:

An initial address (dear X)

An Introduction (covering what role you’re applying for and why)

A hook (more on this later)-A section on your skills and practical experience

A section on your school/other relevant qualifications

Your closing statement

Now let’s explore what each section consists of, and learn how to optimize your cover letter for a veterinary job.

Your Initial Address

Whilst most people begin their cover letter with ‘Dear Sir/Madam’, this can be rather generic and is, frankly, lazy. You can do better.

Try instead to address your cover letter to the person reading it, as this is more engaging and personalized. If you can’t see the name of the person hiring on the job ad, perhaps email or call the practice and ask who to address your cover letter to.

Introduction

This part is relatively simple. In your introduction, you need to briefly outline what position you are applying for and where you saw the advertisement. If you have a job reference, it’s good to include this too.

For example:

My name is X and I would like to register my interest in the position of X (ref: 1307), currently being advertised on X.com.

Whilst this section is not always necessary (especially when applying for smaller businesses) outlining who you are and what you’re applying for is generally good practice.

Writing Your First Paragraph

Now you have the formalities out of the way – it’s time to write your hook.

This is arguably the most important part of your cover letter, as it gives the employer a glimpse into who you are.

Although it can be tempting to write a hook that panders to your reader, it is important to be genuine in this section. This is because in the veterinary field, there are currently more positions than there are veterinarians , which means that prospective employees can be far more selective.

By writing a hook that is reflective of yourself (rather than the employer), you can easily screen out practices that may not fit you as an individual, saving a lot of time and worry.

As Dr. Nicol says:

‘It’s better to get rejected from a job that won’t meet your needs than miss one that will’.

The key to a good hook is one that is engaging, honest, and personal. Avoid vanilla statements such as ‘I have great interpersonal skills’ and ‘I work well in a team’. Instead, tell the employer why you want this job, and why you would be a good fit for the role.

During this section, it’s a great idea to outline some of your core values and express how you see them fitting within the clinic’s culture. This exercise is not only good for you (as it can help indicate whether you would mesh well within the team), but also for the employer, who will be looking for indications that you would fit well into the company’s culture.

An example hook may look like:

‘Since volunteering with your practice in 2019, I have always wanted to return as a graduate. Having now completed my first year in practice I have acquired experience that is relevant and aligned with the practice needs.

Additionally, as a former client of the practice, I am familiar with the processes and am aligned with the values of the clinic. I would love to be part of such an empathetic, personal service.’

If you want to get advice on how to choose a practice with the right culture for you, listen to the podcast below.

Or to visit our job board (which is only accessible to vet practices that have committed to building workplaces where people and pets thrive) click here.

Skills and Practical Experience

Whilst your hook is all about engaging the reader, this section is about concisely conveying how your skills and experience align with that outlined in the job description.

For example, if your employer wanted a veterinarian with ‘good interpersonal skills’, you don’t just say you have them, you show them you have them.

‘I have the following skills which would make me a great candidate for this role:

Good Interpersonal skills. During my work experience at Thursbury Veterinary Practice, I used my interpersonal skills to help resolve client frustrations over social distances restrictions in the clinic.’

Tip: Using bullet points can be a good way to stay concise and clearly convey your suitability.

Education and Further Training

Having conveyed why you want the job and your suitability, it’s now time to mention your schooling and further training.

By further training, we are referring to experience and/or extracurricular activities that you think might set you apart from other candidates.

An example of what this might look like could be:

‘I got my degree at Glasgow University last year, and graduated with a merit.’

‘Outside of my work and studies, I volunteer as a communications officer at my local kennel, further demonstrating my preference for client-facing roles’.

Your Closing Statement

Your closing statement should be brief, but leave the reader with a good last impression!

Perhaps reiterate why you want to work for that specific practice, or what sets you apart from other candidates.

Always finish with a call to action. A call to action is something that encourages the reader to complete a specific action.

A good example could be:

– ‘If you would like to get in touch with me, you can call me at this number: X or email me at this address: X’

If there is a specific time you would like to be contacted, it’s good to state so here as to avoid any miscommunications.

Cover Letters Do’s and Dont’s

Whilst (as stated earlier) there are no hard and fast cover letter rules, there are some things that can make or break your application.

Writing a cover letter that is personalized is not the only key to writing an engaging cover letter (that doesn’t feel generic or disingenuous), but also the key for filtering out clinics that wouldn’t fit your needs.

If you’re looking for a practice that provides more mentorship/guidance, communicate these needs.

As mentioned earlier, there are more jobs than there are people – so it’s a great time to find a practice that fits you than find a practice that doesn’t fulfill your needs.

Avoid using overused generic statements (that are unsupported). This is especially true for the skill section, as anyone can claim to be a ‘team player’ etc. If you back up statements with statistics (relating to job performance) – even better!

Takeaway Thoughts

Writing a great resume and cover letter can take time. But the good thing is that after you’ve done it once, you have a template for all your other applications.

If you are applying to multiple places, we recommend creating a ‘template cover letter and resume’, which you can adapt, personalize and use every time.

For support with writing your CV, send an email to [email protected], or to find a job in a practice that works hard to care for their people just as much as the pets, check out our job board.

• Graduate Vets

Veterinarian Cover Letter Examples

A great veterinarian cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following veterinarian cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

or download as PDF

Cover Letter Example (Text)

(801) 462-7208

[email protected]

Dear Ms. Handerson,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Veterinarian position at Banfield Pet Hospital. With a robust foundation of five years of experience at VCA Animal Hospitals, I have honed my veterinary skills in a fast-paced environment, emphasizing compassionate care and advanced medical treatment for pets. My commitment to animal health and welfare aligns perfectly with the mission and values of Banfield Pet Hospital, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

During my tenure at VCA Animal Hospitals, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse pet population, which has enabled me to become proficient in a wide range of veterinary services, including preventive care, surgery, and emergency response. My hands-on experience with diagnostic tools, treatment plan development, and client education has been instrumental in delivering exceptional care and fostering strong relationships with pet owners.

I take pride in my ability to stay current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine, regularly participating in continuing education courses and workshops. This dedication to professional growth has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance the quality of care provided at Banfield Pet Hospital.

Furthermore, my collaborative spirit and effective communication skills would make me a valuable asset to your veterinary team. I am adept at working alongside colleagues to ensure a seamless and integrated approach to animal care, and I understand the importance of building trust with both my team members and clients.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise and passion for animal health to Banfield Pet Hospital. I am eager to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm for veterinary medicine can be of benefit to your clinic and the many pets and families you serve.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed institution and am hopeful for the opportunity to discuss how I can be an integral part of your team.

Warm regards,

Related Cover Letter Examples

• Associate Veterinarian

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How to write a standout veterinary cover letter

Published: 27 Feb 2015 By BVA New Graduate Guide

Before writing your letter, analyse your reader and think about how you want to present yourself. Put yourself in the reader's situation and consider their requirements and needs. Plan your letter accordingly, placing the most important items first, supported by facts.

After this analysis, write your letter, demonstrating how your background, training, work experience and abilities would meet those needs. This approach will help to persuade the reader that you are a good match for the position and that they should interview you.

Remember that you are responsible for explicitly communicating your value to the employer. Employers typically receive many applications for each job opening. Do not expect them to wade through a great deal of text or a poorly written, mundane or dis­organised letter to figure out what you can do for them.

Principles of writing a good cover letter:

1. personalise each letter.

Take the time to research each employer's practice and personalise each letter. Indicating that you know something about the practice shows that you are careful and interested in the employer. This approach is much more effective than sending out hundreds of identical form letters.

2. Highlight one or two of your most significant accomplishments or abilitie s

This helps your chances of being remembered. Be brief; demonstrate that you understand the value of the reader's time.

3. Be polite and formal

Use a polite, formal style that strikes a balance between confidence in yourself and respect for the employer. Be clear, objective and persuasive rather than simply describing your background.

4. Be positive in tone, content and expectation

Do not add details about yourself, your past experience or your preparation that may call attention to your weaknesses or raise questions about your confidence or ability to do the job. Should there be any failures that must unavoidably be included, such as a course that you did not complete, give a positive spin by saying what you learned from the experience.

5. Use the active voice

Use active voice and powerful action verbs in your writing to hold the reader's interest and convey a sense of energy.

6. Be logical

Group related items together in a paragraph, then organise paragraphs so they flow logically. Remember, it is your responsibility to organise the information for the reader.

7. Be specific

Back up general statements with specific facts or examples.

8. Avoid jargon and clichés

It is tempting to use ready-made phrases such as ‘self-starter’, ‘proven leadership skills’ or ‘excellent interpersonal skills’. However, such expressions represent ‘parroted’ formulas rather than original thought.

9. Check the spelling and grammar

If you are not confident in your ability to detect grammatical, punctuation or English usage errors, or if you need help in organising your letter, take your correspondence to a professional for assistance. A potential employer will not rate highly the intellect of an applicant who is not competent in their native language. If English is not your native language it is equally important to use it correctly, to allay a potential employer's concerns about you being able to communicate effectively with clients and staff.

10. Never misrepresent yourself by overstating your experience or skills

Even if you do not have every qualification sought by the employer, stick to the facts and tell the truth. Emphasise your strengths.

11. Presentation

Use a computer and letter-quality printer to prepare your covering letter. Make sure your letter is in a conventional business style. Using a built-in template in your word processing program is a good way to ensure that your letter is produced in an acceptable business-like format.

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General Information

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Ithaca, New York 14853-6401

Career Services

Resumes, cvs & cover letters.

Externship, internship and job inquiries and applications typically require you to submit a resume or CV (curriculum vitae) to the employer or organization of interest. 

In most cases, the application instructions for the position you are applying to will specify whether a CV or resume is being requested. If this information is not provided, you will need to determine which of them most appropriately fits the criteria provided by the employer or internship committee who will be reviewing your application.

Please note that employers sometimes confuse the terms and use them interchangeably. So, if you are in doubt—the general rule of thumb is that if you are applying for a veterinary associate position you should submit a resume; if you are applying for an externship, internship or a position in academia (research or clinical) you should submit a CV.

Writing a Resume

A resume is a targeted list of professional experiences that focuses on skills and accomplishments directly relevant to the job you are applying for. it is a document that seeks to:

• construct a professional image and establish credibility
• convince a prospective employer to grant you an interview
• persuade your reader that you are the best person for the job

Sections of a Resume

Writing a cv.

A CV is a comprehensive record of your professional history including your academic credentials, clinical, research and teaching experiences and accomplishments and all scholarly activities. It is used by veterinary students when they are applying for externships, internships or residencies or for positions in academia. Research fellowships or scholarship applications also frequently require CVs. Unlike a resume, there is no page limit for CVs.

Sections of a CV

Writing a cover letter.

A cover letter must accompany every letter or CV you send out. A cover letter is NOT a letter that simply refers the reader to the enclosed letter. Like the resume, it should be tailored to the position you are applying for. A cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself, state your objective and highlight aspects of your qualifications that speak to your fit for the position you are applying to. Cover letters are often scrutinized as samples of written communication. A well-written cover letter will encourage the reader to take a serious look at your resume; conversely a poorly written cover letter can doom your job prospects even if you are potentially a great fit for the job.

Sections of a Cover Letter

All sections must be left justified

Letter of Intent (for externships)

Contact our office with any questions you may have regarding your career:

College of Veterinary Medicine Office of Student and Academic Services S2-009 Schurman Hall Ithaca, NY 14853 phone: 607.253.3700 [email protected]

Veterinary Cover Letters

Judging a book by its cover, what your cover letter says about you..

By Bree Montana, DVM, VIN Foundation Vets4Vets® Program Leader

COVER LETTER TIP

• Address it personally to the recipient
• Keep it brief
• Be honest and upbeat
• Make it interesting and relevant
• Avoid exaggerations
• Customize it to each specific position

Explore More

The job search experience can be uncomfortable and intimidating, but you aren’t alone.

Job hunting can be a stress filled experience, having a bomb-proof cover letter can help.

You will “dress to impress” for your job interview; likewise, your resume needs to look professional.

A practical guide to the mentoring relationship. Here we’ll be walking through some tips for developing successful mentoring relationships.

Everyone has a first day at work, and if this is your first mentoring experience you may be feeling similar jitters.

Relationships are always a two-way street. In order for your mentor to help you effectively, there are some things you’ll need to do.

© 2005 – 2024 VIN Foundation. All rights reserved.

Job Application Letter For Veterinary Doctor

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• Structured and written to highlight your strengths;
• Brief, preferably one page in length;
• Clean, error-free, and easy to read;
• Immediately clear about your name and the position you are seeking.

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Veterinary Assistant Cover Letter Example

Get invited for more job interviews and learn creative tricks to use in your next cover letter with our free, downloadable Veterinary Assistant cover letter example. Download this cover letter sample at no cost or customize it inside our online cover letter creator.

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A quick guide to writing your veterinarian resume

Veterinary Assistant Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Anita Somogyi

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Veterinary Assistant position currently available at your institution, as advertised on your hospital careers webpage. With a strong background in the veterinary industry, extensive field knowledge, and a range of relevant skills and abilities, I believe I am well-suited for this role and capable of fulfilling all associated responsibilities.

I hold a bachelor's degree in Veterinary Science from the University of Guelph, where I graduated with top academic honors (4.0 GPA), placing me in the top 2% of my class. Additionally, I have gained valuable experience as an Animal Volunteer, which enhanced my teamwork skills and deepened my understanding of veterinary medicine. Through these experiences, I have honed my critical thinking, analytical, and communication abilities, enabling me to excel in a collaborative work environment.

In my professional career, I have served as a Veterinary Assistant at VCA Animal Hospital in Ottawa, Canada, for two years. In this role, I performed a range of animal care duties and also managed laboratory tests, maintained patient records, and assisted in treatment planning. Additionally, I oversaw daily operations, ensured a sterile surgical environment, and managed inventory and supplies.

As a Certified Veterinary Technician, I bring exceptional manual dexterity, keen attention to detail, and a strong work ethic to the table. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute my skills and expertise to your organization. I have enclosed my resume for your review.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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Veterinarian Assistant Cover Letter: Examples and Tips

Veterinarians help animals live long, healthy lives. But much of the work at the vet’s office is done by veterinary assistants who comfort animals, prepare them for exams, offer triage services, and educate pet owners on post-intervention care, nutrition, and general care. A well-run veterinarian office likely has a vet assistant to thank.

When writing a cover letter , remember to clearly communicate the value you can bring to the workplace and contextualize the skills from your vet assistant resume.

This post provides vet assistant cover letter examples and how-to tips.

Vet Assistant Cover Letter Example

Hello York Veterinary Center Team,

Your job description on Indeed mentioned that you’re looking for “an enthusiastic, compassionate, and hands-on vet assistant”  — a description that strongly matches my profile. 

For the past three years, I’ve been part of the Clinton Vet Center team in Brooklyn — one of the best institutions for exotic pet care. During my time with the team, I have learned to properly handle all types of pets — from miniature pigs to king snakes — with utmost care. I’ve assisted the team in restraining and sedating pets, handling X-rays, ultrasounds, and laser therapy manipulations.  Thanks to my in-depth knowledge of animal anatomy, I can ensure that each procedure goes fast and with the least stress for the patient. 

Moreover, my duties included:

• Collection and preparation of samples for laboratory testing
• Monitoring and reporting of all boarded pets’ vitals 
• Preparation and dispensation of administered drugs, including controlled substances 

 Before joining Clinton Vet Center, I also worked with Johannes Pet Clinic in Queens, where my assistant duties covered a wider range of administrative tasks. I’m well-familiar with various online appointment scheduling platforms, e-prescription tools, and electronic recordkeeping for vet clinics. My duties also included a lot of customer-facing communication — education on post-treatment care, better pet diets, service charges, follow-up visits, etc. These have always been delivered with the highest level of detail, integrity, and transparency.

So if you’re looking for a vet assistant with hands-on medical skills and strong front-desk skills, I’m that kind of person. 

In my free time, I also volunteer at a local animal shelter, providing care to the boarded animals and helping with outreach efforts. Last year, I found new, loving homes for over 30 abandoned pets. 

Don’t hesitate to contact me for any information, regarding my skills, qualifications, or employment history. References are also available upon request.

Regards, Mika Santos  

Veterinarian Assistant Cover Letter No Experience (Plain Text)

Dear Dr. Lovitz,

My name is Leon Carter, and I am writing to you to express my interest in the position of veterinarian assistant at Animalz Midwest Practice. I learned of this position through my friend and your office manager, Becky Davis. I’ve taken the time to review the details of the position, and I am confident that I am the best candidate for your team.

Currently, I am finishing an internship at the Peoria County Animal Hospital. There, I am responsible for assisting veterinarians and technicians as they conduct exams and provide diagnoses for sick pets. My work here primarily involves cats, dogs, birds, rodents, and several exotic household pets (including a raccoon and a python). Additionally, I provide backup support for the front desk staff.

My internship finishes at the end of May and by that time, I will also obtain my Veterinary Assistant Certificate of Completion via Peoria Community College.

In addition to my internship, I have taken advantage of several opportunities to improve my skills in the areas of customer service, animal husbandry, and communication skills. 

Specifically, I have:

• Improved my Spanish language fluency to better communicate with all clients
• Volunteered at an animal sanctuary to gain experience working with large animals
• Worked through a temporary agency to gain skills such as customer service and office technology

Additionally, I was involved in 4-H as a youth and am a leader today. If hired, I will provide the highest level of care to your patients and their owners. I’m looking forward to supporting your clinic’s efforts to provide services to local animal shelters.

My resume further elaborates on my skill set and past work experience. 

Regards, Leon Carter

Veterinarian Assistant Cover Letter (Word)

Download example (.docx)

Skills for Vet Assistant 

Employers expect vet assistants to have a good mix of hard skills and certain personality attributes. In particular, both your resume and veterinary assistant cover letter must clearly articulate: 

• Animal handling experience : Be sure to mention what types of pets you’ve dealt with (cats, dogs, larger domestic animals, smaller exotic pets, etc), as well as manipulations you know how to perform (e.g., restraining, sedation, grooming, sample collection, etc). 
• Veterinary knowledge . Although most vet assistant positions don’t require a license, you still need to showcase an understanding of different anatomy terms and zoonotic diseases to follow the instructions and assist with treatments effectively. 
• Communication skills. Vet assistants need to clearly convey information, answer questions, and provide instructions or recommendations to pet owners. Moreover, they also need to effectively communicate with the team — report on vitals, perform manipulations, and share results 

Since the job can get hectic at times, you must also show a good degree of mental resilience and strong self-management skills . Below sample vet assistant skills, we recommend adding to your cover letter to make a stronger first impression: 

Hard Skills 

• Veterinary terminology and anatomy
• Knowledge of common animal conditions 
• Animal restraint techniques 
• Vaccination administration 
• Sample collection 
• Basic surgical assistance 
• Animal wound care 
• First aid for animals 
• Animal nutrition recommendations 
• Basic grooming techniques 
• Animal diet planning 
• Equipment sterilization 
• Animal facilities cleaning 
• Clinical record-keeping 
• Pet owner education 
• Parasite control 
• Dental care procedures 
• Ultrasound operations 
• Knowledge of infection control measures
• Post-operative care delivery
• Animal vital signs monitoring
• Assisting in diagnostic procedures

Soft Skills 

• Verbal communication skills
• Active listening to understand client needs 
• Collaboration with other staff 
• Adaptability to fast-paced environments 
• Problem-solving skills 
• Professionalism in animal care
• Integrity and ethical behavior 
• Strong rapport-building abilities 
• Attention to detail  
• Task prioritization 
• Schedule planning 
• Customer expectation management 
• Empathy and compassion 
• Cultural sensitivity 
• Customer service skills 
• Stress management 
• Confidence in animal handling
• Patience and kindness 

How To Write A Veterinarian Assistant Cover Letter 

A cover letter is your first introduction to your prospective boss. You should position yourself as a courteous, professional, and customer-oriented candidate. Here’s how to do so. 

Start With a Compelling Opening Paragraph 

Address the letter to the hiring manager and use a professional cover letter opening line . In the first paragraph, explain why you are interested in the position and how your qualifications align with the vet assistant job requirements. 

To make an even stronger impression, you can also share:

• A recent accomplishment (e.g., being named as an ‘Employee of the Month’) 
• An interesting fact about yourself (e.g., that you own 2 cats and 3 lizards) 
• Why you’re passionate about the job (e.g., An amazing vet team rescued my childhood dog…). 

No matter which approach you choose, make sure your cover letter opening is 2-3 sentences long at max. 

Show You’ve Done Your Research

Notice that the letters above refer to the veterinary clinic doing work for local animal shelters. The writer also mentions that they read the job requirements thoroughly. Both of these things show they did preliminary company research . Use your cover letter to show you understand which customers the practice welcomes the most often and how they run the business. Doing so indicates you put in extra effort, and that you aren’t simply sending the same generic cover letter with every application.

Demonstrate Your Expertise 

The main body of your cover letter should largely focus on your skills and accomplishments. The reader should clearly understand what type of work you’ve previously done — mostly front-end tasks and general animal care or more hands-on interventions.  Similar to a resume, you can use bullet points to draw attention to your main competencies in administering medication and doing various procedures. 

Next, don’t forget to include your accomplishments. Accomplishments represent a combination of your education, developed skills, and work experience. Be sure to mention specific steps you’ve taken to improve your skills (like in one of the samples above) and/or mention any positive outcomes you’ve helped achieve (e.g., had a 95% customer satisfaction score in the past job). 

For example, you can frame your accomplishments in the following way:

In my last position, I assisted on over 200 interventions, including an emergency surgery for a sugar glider, who choked on a Lego part. I helped the vet perform tracheal intubation by locating the smallest tube we had from a medicine dispenser and then manipulated the X-ray to get the best view of the tiny obstructed airways.

Adjust The Cover Letter Length 

There is no need to rewrite your resume or tell your life story. Stay on topic. Pick three or four areas to emphasize, and edit ruthlessly. The final version of your cover letter should be less than a page long . Remember vet doctors are busy. They like it when people get to the point fast. 

Close on a High Note 

In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. Another good way to close a cover letter is by adding a call-to-action — a short, directive sentence encouraging the reader to complete the next step. That is get in touch for more information or invite you to an in-person interview. 

Final Tip: Address Any Missing Details

Never let the hiring manager make assumptions about you or fill in any blanks in your career history. Or else, they might arrive at false conclusions.  Instead, take the time to fill in any missing details. For example, the applicant with no vet experience isn’t certified yet but will be by the time they begin working. That’s important to note on the cover letter. 

Also, you may want to spend just one or two sentences providing a concise, positive explanation for gaps in your work history or any other issue that could raise questions. Be forthcoming as transparency creates trust and trust helps you build better rapport with prospective employers. 

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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