- Diagnose and treat animal illnesses, injuries, and disorders
- Vaccinate and deworm animals
- Perform surgeries, including sterilizations and spaying
- Prescribe medications and treatments
- Provide nutritional counseling
- Educate clients on proper animal care and welfare
Skills:
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Physical stamina, as the job may require long hours and frequent lifting
- Compassion and empathy for animals and their owners
- Knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology
Education & Training:
- Bachelor's degree in animal science, biology, or a related field
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary school
- State licensure to practice veterinary medicine
Specializations:
- Small animal veterinarian (dogs, cats, rabbits, etc.)
- Large animal veterinarian (cows, horses, pigs, etc.)
- Exotic animal veterinarian (birds, reptiles, amphibians, etc.)
- Public health veterinarian (focus on preventing and controlling animal diseases that can affect human health)
- Research veterinarian (conducts research on animal health and diseases)