Friday, June 29, 2018

Vet – The Many Facets of the Profession


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.

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