A Vet is the popular nickname for a
veterinarian< a doctor for animals. There are many types of animal doctors
which are mostly grouped according to the many types of specialization.
Typically, veterinarians learn to treat all animals, but they gradually work
according to specific types.
The
others specialize in particular types of medicine. (Veterinary dermatologists,
for instance, specialize in animals with skin problems.) Some of these doctors
do research on animals and their diseases. Most usually, veterinarians working
in animal clinics and hospitals deal mostly with pet animals (cats, dogs, some
reptiles, and a host of others.)
As a
whole, veterinarians have a major role in regards to the health of society
through the care and treatment of animals. With the use of their expertise and
education, they protect and improve human health as well in their role of
protecting the health and welfare of animals.
Education
Being
a veterinarian in the U.S. means first of all a college degree, and needs to
take several required classes, mostly science and science-related classes. A candidate then applies to a veterinary
school. Once accepted, our candidate will do an additional work of 4 years.
Upon
graduation, our candidate is now a holder of the degree of Doctor in Veterinary
Medicine. In the U.S. and in Canada, the graduate needs to pass the NAVLE
(North American Veterinary License Exam) before being able to practice as a
veterinarian.
Opportunities
On
their own, veterinarians have a range of opportunities that are worth exploring
for the simple reason of discovering what is the best fit for them. Today,
there is a growing need for vets with post-graduate education in particular
specialties.
The
choices include such fields as molecular biology, laboratory animal medicine,
toxicology, immunology, diagnostic pathology or environmental medicine.
Likewise, the profession is also becoming associated with such diverse fields
as aquaculture, comparative medical research, food production and international
disease control.
As example,
a veterinarian may work to protect animal and human health at a government
agency such as the U.S. Agriculture Department. The expertise of veterinarians
is applicable when going to an agency like the National Institute of Health or
the Center for Disease Control to help in such areas as bio-security, public
health or disease prevention.
U.S. Army / Air Force
Veterinarians
can join the U.S. Army Corps or the Air Force to help work on food safety and
care for the military’s working dogs. The military can provide advanced
training in specialty areas for those who commit to service.
A vet
can also work in the private sectors like in corporations that provide animal
care or animal-related products. Otherwise, he can also choose to work and have
a research career.
Working conditions
Veterinarians
can work in many different types of environments. For those who care for
companion animals, they work in a place that’s full of activity and noise.
Those who prefer working with farm animals may have to spend a lot of time
outdoors.
For
those included to do research, a vet may spend their workdays inside the
confines of a lab. Those who opt for corporate work may spend their workdays in
an office.
