What does being a veterinarian involve?

Responsibilities:

- 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)