5 Must-Read Books for Aspiring Veterinarians (+1 Bonus Pick)

Written by Alessandro Didiano (doctor in veterinary medicine, MRCVS)

Disclaimer: This article is personally written by me, a licensed veterinarian with more than a decade of clinical experience

I’ve always been an avid reader. Books have shaped how I think and how I understand the world around me.  I do enjoy reading a wide range of topics, but I’m especially drawn to books on psychology and anything that deepens my insight into how people and animals experience life.

When I was dreaming of becoming a vet, I was surprised by how few books there were that captured what it’s  like to work in veterinary medicine. Books from practicing vets were hard to come by (maybe one day I’ll write one myself!), apart from the immortal masterpieces of James Herriot, which made me dream about my own future veterinary career . But as years went by, I discovered some brilliant books written by colleagues, veterinarians who explained the joys, the challenges, and the emotional weight of the job.

If you're an aspiring vet (or if you are simply fascinated by this profession), these books are a must-read. Each one of them offers a unique perspective on this beautiful and rewarding (but at the same time extremely demanding) career.

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1. “All Creatures Great and Small” by James Herriot

The list can only start with this classic by James Herriot. Although veterinary medicine has changed completely since the book was published, this collection of heart-warming and humorous stories can inspire a love for veterinary life (they definitely did for me).

The book is both hilarious and deeply moving. It really captures the soul of a veterinary career: compassion, dedication, challenges and the occasional chaos.

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2. “To Vet School and Beyond: A Guide for Young, Aspiring Vets” by Lorna Clark

James Herriot is poetic and beautiful to read, but this book is just what younger aspiring vets who want a realistic introduction to the field should read.

It is a fantastic starting point for future vets who want to understand the journey ahead, from school to vet school and beyond. It’s modern and full of practical insights: it is especially recommended for teens and young adults considering the profession. And who knows? Maybe you will find out that, actually, vet school is not for you! And this is absolutely fine too.

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3. "Listening to the Animals: Becoming The Supervet" by Professor Noel Fitzpatrick

This inspiring book follows the personal and emotional journey of Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, a world-renowned orthopaedic and neurosurgeon, star of TV show The Supervet. The book explores his inspiring life from his beginnings on a farm in rural Ireland to founding one of the most advanced veterinary hospitals in Europe. It is a powerful exploration of purpose and the bond between vets and the animals under their care.

Apart from giving some interesting insights about his surgical innovations, Fitzpatrick opens up about the emotional cost of his mission. He even reveals he hasn’t taken a proper holiday since 1999 (!) in order to fully dedicate his life to the work. (Just to be clear, I wouldn’t recommend that to anyone, but I think it really illustrates the depth of his commitment.)

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4."Call the Vet" by Bruce Fogle

A sort of a "more recent" James Herriot, Dr. Bruce Fogle shares interesting and (at times) humorous stories from the beginning of his career in small animal practice, in the  1970's London. However, the book was written in 2020, decades after the events took place, offering readers a fascinating perspective shaped by 50 years of reflection.

In this book, he manages very well to capture the everyday ups and downs of veterinary life. Some aspects of clinical practice have certainly evolved since the stories took place, but the heart of the profession (mainly the compassion, the connections with the animals and their families, and the challenges) remains very relevant even in today's veterinary world.

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5. “Tell Me Where It Hurts” by Nick Trout

This is a wonderful inside look at the drama and emotion of a busy veterinary hospital. In this touching book, Dr. Nick Trout shares real cases, some behind-the-scenes challenges, and the difficult choices most vets have to  face every day. It's definitely engaging and eye-opening.

 

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Bonus Pick: “Zoobiquity” by Dr. Barbara Natterson-Horowitz and Kathryn Bowers

Although the authors are not vets, this book explores what we can learn when human doctors and veterinarians collaborate. They clearly illustrate  the deep and profound similarities between human and animal health. It aligns with the One Health philosophy,  which has the intent to unite human and veterinary medicine for the benefits of all species.

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Final Thoughts: Build Your Veterinary Mindset Now

You may want to apply to vet school, or maybe you only have a deep interest in the veterinary profession. These books, each in their own (very different way) help you understand the real world of veterinary medicine: the demands, the challenges, the rewards and the emotions involved.  Read them to get some inspiration, or just to  prepare and reflect about his unique profession.

 

 

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