Back to all posts

Become a Relief Vet in Alabama

Veterinarian looking stressed at work, highlighting the importance of veterinary burnout prevention.

Juan Gervasoni

Specialist

February 20, 2025

Veterinary services in Alabama, including vet clinics, veterinary jobs, relief vet opportunities, flexible vet jobs, and information on relief vet salary, requirements, and temporary vet jobs in Alabama. Explore veterinary career options and job opportunities in Alabama for veterinarians and vet assistants.

How Do You Become a Relief Vet in Alabama?

Alabama is a state with a growing demand for veterinary professionals, offering a mix of urban and rural opportunities for those in the field. Whether you’re searching for veterinarian jobs, exploring veterinary relief services, or looking into vet assistant jobs near me, Alabama provides a welcoming environment to grow your career. If you’re considering becoming a relief vet in Alabama, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What is a Relief Veterinarian?

A relief vet is a licensed DVM who provides temporary coverage for clinics in need of additional support. Temporary veterinary work offers flexibility, a competitive salary, and the ability to gain experience across different practice settings. Many professionals choose temporary vet work to achieve a better work-life balance while maintaining a steady income. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), relief veterinarians typically earn higher hourly rates due to the flexibility and high demand for their services (Source: AVMA).

Requirements for Relief Veterinarians in Alabama

To work as a relief vet in Alabama, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Obtain a DVM license in the state of Alabama.
  • Secure professional liability insurance, such as AVMA PLIT, to protect yourself while working in different clinics.
  • Gain experience in a variety of clinical settings, from general practice to emergency and specialty hospitals.
  • Develop a strong network within the veterinary community to stay informed about new opportunities.

Salary Expectations for Relief Veterinarians in Alabama

One of the most common questions among veterinary professionals is: What is a vet salary compared to a relief vet’s salary? While veterinary assistants and vet techs play a crucial role in animal care, relief veterinarians often earn significantly higher hourly rates. In Alabama, temporary veterinarians can command competitive salaries due to the growing demand for their services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, full-time veterinarians generally earn a fixed annual salary, while relief vets have more flexibility and can earn higher rates per hour (Source: BLS).

Position Average Salary in Alabama
Veterinary Assistant $25,000 – $35,000
Veterinary Technician $35,000 – $50,000
Full-Time Veterinarian $90,000 – $120,000
Relief Veterinarian $70 – $100 (Per Hour)

For those comparing vet salary to relief vet salary, it’s clear that relief work often offers higher pay per hour than full-time positions. For more information on how much a relief vet can earn, check out our blog How Much Can a Relief Vet Earn?

How to Find Relief Vet Jobs in Alabama

For those not yet licensed as a DVM but still looking to work in the veterinary field, there are plenty of veterinary assistant jobs near me available in Alabama. Many clinics hire veterinary assistants and vet techs to support their teams, offering valuable hands-on experience that can be a stepping stone toward becoming a relief vet. These roles also provide insight into the differences between a vet salary and a relief vet salary.

Steps to Start Your Career as a Relief Vet

  • Obtain your DVM license in Alabama by meeting state licensing requirements.
  • Get professional liability insurance through AVMA PLIT to ensure coverage.
  • Register with FlexVet Staffing to gain access to exclusive temporary vet jobs and placements throughout Alabama.
  • Expand your clinical experience by working in various veterinary settings, from private clinics to emergency hospitals.
  • Stay informed about job opportunities by networking with other relief veterinarians and industry professionals.

Why Choose Relief Veterinary Work?

  • Flexibility – Set your schedule and choose where and when you work.
  • Higher Salary Potential – Relief vets typically earn more per hour compared to full-time employed veterinarians, giving you the chance to increase your vet salary.
  • Diverse Experience – Work in multiple practice settings, gaining exposure to different specialties and cases.
  • Professional Growth – Relief work allows you to build a broad skill set and network with various veterinary professionals.

Get Started with FlexVet Staffing as a Relief Vet

At FlexVet Staffing, we specialize in connecting relief vets with clinics in need of temporary coverage. Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced vet looking for a change, we offer exclusive job placements to help you build a rewarding career in veterinary relief services.
If you’re ready to explore temporary vet jobs or find vet assistant jobs in Alabama, FlexVet Staffing is here to help. Contact us today to start your journey toward a flexible and fulfilling veterinary career!