Yes. Although some workplaces still prohibit tattoos and piercings, the large bulk of veterinarians would encounter no problems if they are coated in ink. Numerous veterinary clinics and hospitals now accept tattoos or piercings more than they used to previously.
Nevertheless, remember that each workplace is unique; some may allow it while others may not. Because of the widespread acceptance of tattoos, an increasing number of individuals are making a choice to get inked. Today, it is viewed as a form of self-expression instead of a taboo.
As a matter of fact, the overwhelming bulk of specialties and workplaces have been forced to change their policies to cater to this change. Although some careers still disallow tattoos or piercings (for example, airline staff or pilots), the majority have reversed their decision and have become more considerate.
Numerous veterinary treatment centers would not hesitate to employ a vet tech who has tattoos or body piercings as long as they aren’t provocative and does not pose a safety concern. Nevertheless, there are a few veterinary clinics that would dismiss applicants based on the existence of piercings and tattoos.
Take into account your objectives and aspirations before getting a new tattoo or piercing. If displaying your distinctiveness via noticeable tattoos and body piercings is important to you, then go for it, but be aware that you might be required to make some concessions in your job. You may have lower employment offers, and you can be turned down for a job.
Concerns About Allowing Tattoos in Veterinary Clinics
There are perceived issues, particularly as it relates to veterinarians with visible tattoos. Among these concerns are:
Medical Concerns
As healthcare workers, veterinarians aren’t invulnerable to health issues. Getting a tattoo is often dangerous and can lead to infectious diseases, which is bad news for doctors. Although the likelihood of this happening is slim.
If you are allergic, you may need to take time off from work to recover. In addition, it takes 2 – 3 weeks for a tattoo to fully heal. The region will scab and peel away, but do you have to wait for that? If you can afford it, a nice holiday is an appropriate moment for getting a tattoo.
Patient Concerns
Health facilities are built primarily for the benefit of patients. Many of them are opposed to negative tattoos. Younger adults mostly have no misgivings about seeing tattooed Veterinarians. They might even want one for themselves. Children are especially accepting and captivated by what they see. So they’ll be delighted to discover why a veterinarian has a tattoo.
Other Considerations for Veterinarians and Tattoos
Employer Policies and Procedures
To that small degree, animal care facilities generally require veterinarians to conceal any tattoos while on the job. A few of the primary motivations include hygiene and not bothering patients or their families. Tattoos well above the nape of the neck or over the wrist are cracked down on and not allowed in certain scenarios.
Several individuals may have concerns about having a surgeon who is covered in ink attend to them. Employee dress codes as well as appearance guidelines generally specify what is and isn’t acceptable. Even when no one should ever be judged purely on their preferences, organizations such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) allow companies to establish dress codes and appearance regulations.
Freedom From Discrimination
The Civil Rights Act is unequivocal on the subject of discriminatory practices. Nevertheless, the Act does not cover physical appearance, such as tattoos, from unequal treatment.
As a result, Veterinarians may face employment, discharging, as well as promotional discrimination depending on an employer’s tastes. Many top healthcare professionals also revile tattooed juniors, visualizing them as poor role models for the line of work.
If hiring managers are against tattoos, it will be stated in their guidelines. If that’s the issue, it doesn’t matter if you graduated first in your class. Moreover, studies demonstrate that women bear the brunt of stereotyping, particularly in comparison to men. However, discrimination against tattooed veterinarians is gradually fading.
Kinds of Tattoos that are Allowed
The AMA Code of Medical Ethics contains constraints that practitioners must follow. A few of them focus on tattoos that have been characterized as offensive in nature or that are situated in areas that infringe with practices, for instance, the hands.
It should be noted that these constraints are rigorously enforced in order to sustain professional competence and guarantee client safety.
Conclusion
In summary, veterinarians could get tattoos without worrying about it negatively impacting their career opportunities. Although some people are indeed prejudiced against tattooed vets, the bulk of places of employment is becoming more accepting of tattoos and piercings.
As such, if you are thinking about getting a tattoo, go ahead and do it! Only be sure to double-check with your prospective employer first to ensure that they are okay with it.