I could talk all day long about this topic since I too had ambitions of becoming a DVM and worked at 3 different vet clinics for 3 yr before I was accepted to pharm school. For my ideal lifestyle, pharmD trumps DVM-no contest. Don't get me wrong, I think vet med can be a very noble and rewarding profession where one can really make a difference, but it has too much of a downside for me.
IMO, pros of vet med vs pharmD:
1) diagnostics is stimulation you cannot get w/ pharmD.
2) bringing your dog to work is a unique benefit
3) generally more "exciting"
cons:
1) Average salary for 1st yr grad is <$50k, increases ~$10k/yr thereafter. Avg for ALL vets ~<$85k/yr. The top 2% of vets will make more than almost any pharmD, but these are rare specialists. To make the same amount of money as pharmD. you have to work alot more hours. Many vets work at their local emergency center in addition to their other practice to make ends meet.
2) The vet techs you will be working closely with for the next 40+ years are a special breed of folks. Note: this comment listed under "cons".
3) IMO there is a much higher frequency and degree of burnout in vet med. Read some trade mags.
4) Unless you come from a well-to-do family, your student loans will be an almost insurmountable burden.
5) Like MOST vets, you will euthanize perfectly healthy animals b/c the owner doesn't want to pay $300 to tx their "best friend".
6) "Client" non-compliance is soooooo common.
7) If you are a female associate, statistically you will make less than your similarly qualified male counterparts.
I know it's mostly negative, but it is based on my observations. And because of this first-hand experience within the field I think that I am qualified to form a valid opinion about it. Nevertheless, you should form your own opinions of both-which you appear to be in the process of. Best of wishes in your endeavors....
