What is a relief veterinarian?

A relief veterinarian is a licensed veterinarian who works on a temporary or part-time basis to provide veterinary services in the absence of full-time staff due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. Relief veterinarians can be hired by animal hospitals, private practices, or mobile clinics to manage day-to-day operations, such as treating sick or injured animals, conducting routine exams, and performing surgeries. The role requires flexibility, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to new environments. Relief veterinarians typically have a set hourly or daily rate and can be hired on a short-term or long-term basis. This type of veterinary work is often preferred by those seeking a flexible schedule or those who are building their own practice.