The salary data was collected in Mar 99 Private practice salaries are quoted. Car and accommodation allowances are usual. Partners' income is not high and investment in buildings may be necessary. A 24 hour on-call service can disrupt social life, this is more of a problem in rural practice. Urban practice can be in a clean, pleasant surgery but most rural work is outdoors, often in adverse conditions.
Veterinary surgeons work throughout the UK, in both rural and urban areas.
The work has much variety and interest and is usually free of supervision. Hours can be long and unsocial. Not a job for the squeamish as work is often done in the presence of blood and excrement. Surgical work and internal examinations can be unpleasant. Work experience with animals is essential for entry to veterinary science degree courses.