* Undergraduate Degree: Typically 4 years to complete a bachelor's degree, often in a science-related field like biology, zoology, or animal science.
* Veterinary School: This is a 4-year professional program, leading to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) degree.
* Internship/Residency (Optional): For those who want to specialize in small animal medicine, an internship or residency can take an additional 1-3 years.
Total: This means it can take anywhere from 8 to 11 years to become a fully qualified small animal veterinarian!
Beyond the Degree: Even after completing all their training, veterinarians must continue learning throughout their careers. They need to stay up-to-date on new research, technologies, and treatment methods.