Salary and working hours of veterinarians: A current overview & discussion

Veterinarians provide an invaluable service for the health of our animals. But what about their income and working time prospects? We offer you a detailed overview of salary structures and working hours for veterinarians in Germany.

With the Veterinary doctors SWR3 has recently found a new enemy – the greedy veterinarian. But what's the truth about wealthy vets who fleece pet owners of their last penny, and what's the reality?

Salary of employed veterinarians: What can you expect?

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: negotiable basis instead of collective agreements

Currently, there are no fixed collective bargaining agreements for veterinarians. This means that salaries are often a matter of negotiation. However, various professional associations offer guidance:

• German Federal Chamber of Veterinary Surgeons (BTK): For those starting their careers, the recommended salary ranges from €3,130.00 up to the sixth month and increases to €3,657.00 from the seventh month onwards.
• Federal Association of Salaried Veterinarians (BaT)The recommendation starts with an entry-level salary of 3,710.00 euros until the sixth month and increases to 4,102.00 euros from the seventh month onwards.
• German Federal Association of Practicing Veterinarians (bpt): The recommended salary starts at 3,500 euros in the first year and grows to a maximum of 5,090 euros after 14 years of professional experience.

The last example clearly illustrates the crux of these relatively high starting salary demands – there's no follow-up increase. The BPT openly admits this – they anticipate an annual salary increase of 21,030, and this despite current inflation exceeding 61,030. Can this be motivating?

The proposed BPT bonus model is more interesting, even though it is a very simplified economic approach and disregards essential business principles such as payroll taxes. Nevertheless, we believe it can be more engaging and provide stronger performance incentives than a low annual salary adjustment.

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: an overview of salary models

The bpt also presents two models:

1. Fixed salary modelA monthly salary of €3,089.00 to €3,546.00 is proposed here for a 40-hour week.
2. Bonus modelThis model recommends a base salary of approximately 3,000.00 euros, supplemented by a performance-based bonus of between 25 and 35 percent of sales.

Reality check: What do veterinarians actually earn?

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: Starting salary of a veterinarian

A newly qualified veterinarian can expect a gross salary of around €45,000 to €55,000 per year. Of course, this depends on the region, the specific practice, and the number of hours worked.

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: Salary development over the course of a career

With increasing professional experience, a veterinarian can expect a significant increase in their salary. After five years in the profession, the average annual salary is around €60,000 to €75,000.

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: Specialization and salary

Veterinarians who specialize in certain animal species or medical fields can often expect a higher salary. For example, an equine veterinarian or an animal surgeon can earn up to €80,000 or more.

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: Regional salary differences for veterinarians in Germany

In Germany, salaries in many professions vary depending on the region. This also applies to veterinarian salaries (Veterinarian Salary and Working Hours:). The following examples illustrate how a veterinarian's salary can differ in various cities and federal states (Source: Stepstone).

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: major cities and metropolitan areas

1. MunichAs the capital of Bavaria and one of the most expensive cities in Germany, veterinarians here can expect an above-average salary. This often ranges between €65,000 and €80,000 per year.
2. BerlinDespite being the capital city, Berlin often has a lower cost of living than other major cities. The average salary for veterinarians here ranges from €58,000 to €73,000.
3. Frankfurt am MainAs a financial center, Frankfurt offers high salaries in many sectors. Veterinarians here can expect salaries between €62,000 and €77,000.
4. HamburgIn the Hanseatic city of Hamburg, the average salary for veterinarians is between €60,000 and €75,000.
5. DüsseldorfIn the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, veterinarians can expect an annual salary of €59,000 to €74,000.

Salary and working hours of veterinarians: Rural regions and smaller towns

1. Schleswig-HolsteinIn more rural areas like Schleswig-Holstein, the average salary for veterinarians can range between €50,000 and €65,000.
2. Saxony-AnhaltVeterinarians here can expect a salary of €48,000 to €62,000.
3. ThuringiaIn this region, the average salary for veterinarians ranges between €47,000 and €61,000.
4. Rhineland-PalatinateVeterinarians in Rhineland-Palatinate can expect salaries between €51,000 and €66,000.
5. Baden-WürttembergIn rural areas of Baden-Württemberg, the salary can vary between €53,000 and €68,000.

Salary and working hours for veterinarians: What's the bottom line – more gross or more net?

Anyone who is optimistic and believes in the state pension system, and is also naive enough to think that one day the well-funded pension schemes of freelancers (lawyers, tax advisors, doctors and also veterinarians) will not be included in the state redistribution system, will always prefer a higher gross salary.

All the others prefer higher net wages, firstly to be able to provide for their own retirement and secondly, possibly to save for their own practice:

A veterinarian's salary can be influenced by various components. Some of these components are fixed parts of the base salary, while others may be variable or performance-based. Here are some components that can positively influence a veterinarian's net income in Germany:

1. Base salary: The basic salary, which is stipulated in the employment contract.
2. Overtime and night shift bonuses: Veterinarians who work outside normal working hours often receive bonuses for overtime, night work, or work on Sundays and public holidays.
3. Emergency service surcharges: Veterinarians working in an emergency service system may receive additional payments for these services.
4. Bonus systems: Some veterinary practices or clinics may have a bonus system based on performance or revenue.
5. Further training and qualification allowances: Veterinarians who have acquired additional qualifications or specialized training (e.g., specialist veterinarian) can often negotiate a higher salary.
6. Occupational pension scheme: Some employers offer a company pension scheme, which does not directly increase net earnings, but offers long-term financial benefits.
7. Benefits in kind: Some employers offer benefits in kind such as company cars, free accommodation or company mobile phones.
8. Private veterinary assistant insurance: In some cases, veterinarians can benefit from private health insurance for their animals.
9. Participation in research projects or industry collaborations: Some veterinarians can earn additional income by participating in scientific studies or collaborations with the pharmaceutical industry.
10. Self-employment and practice ownership: Self-employed veterinarians or practice owners often have a higher income potential, but also bear a greater financial risk.

It's important to note that not all veterinarians can benefit from all these salary components, as many factors, such as location, practice size, specialization, and professional experience, influence salary. Negotiation skills and an understanding of one's own market value can also be crucial in securing the best possible salary.

Working hours for veterinarians: Legal framework

Although there is no specific collective agreement for veterinarians, they are subject to the German Working Time Act. This ensures that working hours and rest periods are legally regulated.

Working time models for veterinarians in Germany

The veterinary profession is multifaceted and demanding. Depending on the specialization, working hours and models can vary significantly. Below, we offer an overview of the working time models commonly used by small animal veterinarians, equine veterinarians, and large animal veterinarians in Germany (veterinarian salaries and working hours).

Small animal veterinarian

Full-time practice:

• Typically a 5-day week with fixed consultation hours.
• Emergency services, especially on weekends or public holidays.

Part-time practice:

• Reduced working hours, often in larger practices or clinics with several veterinarians.
• Emergency services can be arranged collectively.

Flexible working time model:

• Adapted working hours, for example through flextime or block working hours.
• Possible in larger clinics or group practices.

equine veterinarians

Full-time practice:

• Often irregular working hours due to home visits.
• Emergency services and weekend work are common.

Seasonally dependent working hours:

• More intensive work phases during the tournament season or breeding season.

Part-time or flexible models:

• Possible if working in a group practice or clinic.
• Emergency services are divided among the team.

Large animal veterinarian

Full-time practice:

• Often irregular working hours due to home visits, frequently in rural areas.
• Being on call and working weekends are standard.

Seasonal working hours:

• Peak periods during the birthing and mating seasons of farm animals.

Part-time or job sharing:

• Rare, but possible in larger practices or cooperatives.
• Allows for the division of on-call duty and emergency services.

Cooperation with farmers:

• A possible model in which veterinarians cooperate directly with farms or agricultural businesses and plan regular visits.

How many veterinarians are women and men, differentiated by small animal and large animal veterinarians?

As of 2021, the veterinary profession in many countries, including Germany, has become predominantly female. However, the exact figures can change from year to year.

In Germany, the number of women working in veterinary medicine has steadily increased over the years, and this trend has continued. While there used to be a more even distribution between men and women, women now constitute the majority of veterinarians in the younger generations.

However, the ratio of women to men can vary depending on the specialization:

1. Small animal medicine: Women clearly dominate here. This can be partly attributed to flexible working hours and the physical demands of the job.
2. Large animal medicine: Historically, this field has been predominantly male, mainly due to the physical demands and the often necessary travel. However, there is an increase in the number of women working in large animal practice, although men may still be in the majority.
3. Equine medicine: The gender ratio could be somewhat more balanced here, although the trend towards female dominance can also be observed in this area.

How many veterinarians are self-employed, employed, in the public sector, etc.?

Of the 33,326 veterinarians working in 2022, only 22,682 were employed in a practice or clinic; the rest were civil servants, employed in the pharmaceutical industry, or otherwise engaged in other activities. In other words, 681,300 were directly practicing their profession, as they had originally studied. This may sound strange, but it illustrates the staffing crisis we veterinarians face and the competition we have to face for employees across the country.

Furthermore, 11,292 veterinarians were no longer practicing veterinary medicine or were working without pay. In total, this means that 501,300 qualified veterinarians are missing from the "normal" veterinary care of small animals, large animals, or horses.

Any discussion points on how to make the veterinary profession more attractive in terms of salary and working hours?

To make the veterinary profession more attractive in terms of both salary and working hours, various approaches could be pursued. However, it is important to note that any changes should be carefully examined and implemented taking all relevant factors into account to avoid unintended side effects or negative impacts on animal health. Here are some suggestions:

Salary:

1. Performance-based bonuses: Additional bonuses for outstanding performance or for handling special cases can be motivating.
2. Training support: Financial support or participation in the costs of further training can indirectly increase income by enabling veterinarians to qualify in highly paid specialist areas.
3. Company pension scheme / company health insurance: Some employers could contribute to company pension schemes, which provides a financial incentive in the long term.

Working hours:

1. More flexible working hours: Especially for veterinarians with families, more flexible working hours, e.g. through flextime models, could be very attractive.
2. Part-time work: The possibility of working part-time without this resulting in a disproportionate loss of salary.
3. Job sharing: Two veterinarians could share one position, which would give both of them more free time.
4. Regular breaks: Especially in veterinary medicine, where emergencies are frequent, it is important to ensure that veterinarians can take regular breaks.
5. Clearly defined emergency services: Instead of constant on-call duty, clearly structured emergency service hours could be established, rotating between the veterinarians.
6. Technological support: Investments in modern technologies could automate routine tasks and reduce workload.

Brief summary

An examination of "veterinarians' salaries and working hours" reveals significant regional differences across Germany. Young graduates face particular challenges regarding these topics. Adjusting veterinarians' salaries and working hours could make the profession more attractive. These factors influence the career choices of many students. Numerous professional associations are working to increase transparency concerning veterinarians' salaries and working hours.

The debate surrounding veterinarians' salaries and working hours reflects societal esteem. Reforms are necessary to improve veterinarians' salaries and working hours in the long term. These salaries and working hours also impact patient care. Investments in these areas could counteract the shortage of skilled professionals. Without adjustments to veterinarians' salaries and working hours, many practices could close. It is essential that veterinarians' salaries and working hours receive greater consideration in political discussions.

Discussion

The veterinary profession in Germany is facing a critical test. While the emotional and professional demands are constantly increasing, recognition in the form of salaries and regulated working hours is often lacking. Is the current system still sustainable? Deeper insights and a critical examination of the realities of veterinary medicine are essential.

Perhaps offer our innovative working time models Perhaps a first suggestion – but we are certainly at the beginning of a process here.

We now look forward to your feedback and ideas on how the wonderful profession of veterinarian could be made more attractive again, because somewhere out there are clearly 20,000 trained veterinarians who have turned their backs on their profession, directly or indirectly: