Veterinary Officer - Reserve

Royal Army Veterinary Corps

At a glance

  • Officer
  • Specialist
  • medical

You make sure the military’s working animals are fit, well and ready to be deployed. Give expert advice, get qualifications and build a rewarding career.

THE BONDS YOU FORM THERE WITH YOUR FELLOW OFFICER CADETS ARE LIFE-LONG.

From horses to dogs, the Army has hundreds of animals in its ranks. As a Veterinary Officer, you manage our Military Working Animals' capability and lead soldiers under your command.

You deal with animal health issues – the kind you’d find in civilian practice – but also veterinary challenges that only the Army can offer. You'll advise on disease controls and biosecurity, too. With the opportunity to boost your qualifications by getting the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice. Develop your expertise and you can move up as a clinician or a commander.

All this, plus travel, sports and Adventurous Training, too.

The Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) provides the service lead in the development of good animal husbandry, training practice, preventive medicine and care for Military Working Animals (MWAs).

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Key Responsibilities

  • Work in challenging and hostile environments

  • Take responsibility and make decisions

  • Lead and manage people

  • Use patience and a consistent approach to get the best out of animals.

  • Carry out other military duties.

Have any questions? Talk with us

Reserve (part time)

Entry requirements

  • Age:

    From 21 years & 0 months to 49 years & 11 months

  • Qualifications:

    Clinically Qualified, Current and working in this field

  • Basic physical fitness assessment:

    • Mid Thigh Pull 50kg

    • Medicine Ball Throw 2.7m

    • MSFT (beep test) level 5.8

    More information about the fitness test

Training for the role

Step 1
You will complete two 2-week courses at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to form the basis of your military training

Step 2
Your trade specific training will depend on your civilian qualifications and experience

Qualifications you could get after training

On successful entry into the Army Medical Services Reserve you will be eligible to apply for consideration in CPD for Professional Qualifications commensurate to Role within with the Army Medical Services.

Pay & benefits

As a Veterinary Officer, you'll be paid on a daily rate commensurate to your qualifications. This includes being paid for weekly drill nights. Plus, if you complete all of your annual training days, you’re entitled to a tax-free lump sum called a bounty

More about Reserve benefits

How to Apply

If you've got your qualifications, then apply online. Your application will be passed to our specialist team, who will help guide you through the process towards joining in this role. You'll need to pass a specialist skills interview to check that your skills are in line with our needs.

More about the joining process