Veterinarian Job Description
Veterinary medicine is the art and science of treating disease, disorder, injury, deformity, defect, or physical malfunction in non-human animals. The scope of veterinary medicine practiced varies a great deal across the world.

Vets focus on the health care of animals, rather than just treating their symptoms. They often take care of domestic animals; but may also treat wild animals and, in some countries, large animals such as horses. Veterinarians must have a degree in veterinary science or veterinary medicine and a license to practice. Veterinary physicians who also have a degree in medicine (MVMs or VMDs) can prescribe medications and carry out surgery, although they are not typically licensed to do so.
Veterinarians can specialize in certain types of animals, treatment methods, or laboratory testing. The most common types are:
Small animal veterinarians usually work in clinics, treating dogs and cats. They may see large animals as well; but this is rarer. Equine veterinarians deal with horses and other large domestic farm animals such as cattle and sheep. They treat the same kinds of issues that small animal vets do; but with larger livestock. Large-animal veterinarians also work on farms; but their work involves treating livestock—both dairy and beef—and not pets or household pets. Large-animal veterinarians are also referred to as "stockmen".
Animal dentistry is a particular section of veterinary medicine, focusing on the oral health care of animals. Like human dentists, vets that work in this section do routine check-ups to prevent and catch problems early, as well as provide treatments for existing issues.
Statistics on Veterinarians
From Wikipedia.
- The majority of veterinarians are employed in private practice treating animals (75% of vets in the United States, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association).
- A 2015 study published in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association proved that blood pressure readings, pulse rates and body temperature rates were increased by 11–16% when those readings were done in the clinic versus in the home.
- The median starting salary for new veterinary graduates in 2018 was $92,830 in the United States according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, while the lowest paid earned less than $76,540 annually.
- In the United States in 2007, approximately 5,750 applicants competed for the 2,650 seats in the 28 accredited veterinary schools , with an acceptance rate of 46%.
- In the United States, approximately 80% of admitted students are female.
- The percentage electing to undertake further study following registration in the United States has increased from 36.8% to 39.9% in 2008.
- About 25% of those or about 9% of graduates were accepted into traditional academic internships.
- Approximately 9% of veterinarians eventually board certify in one of 40 distinct specialties from 22 specialty organizations recognized by the AVMA American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS).
- According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 12% of workers in the veterinary services profession reported a work-related injury or illness in 2016.
- A systematic review of veterinary students found that between 17 – 64% had acquired a zoonotic disease during their studies.
Articles On Veterinarians
Veterinarian - Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org)
Veterinarian - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews and Advice
Veterinarians examine, diagnose and treat animals. They can also perform surgeries, care for wounds, vaccinate against diseases. (money.usnews.com)
Veterinarians : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Veterinarians care for the health of animals and work to protect public health. (bls.gov)
Veterinarians (onetonline.org)
What does a veterinarian do? - CareerExplorer
A veterinarian is a medical professional who protects the health and well-being of both animals and people. They diagnose and control animal diseases and treat sick and injured animals. They also advise owners on proper care of their pets and livestock. Veterinarians provide a wide range of servic... (careerexplorer.com)
Veterinarians at My Next Move (mynextmove.org)
State Veterinarian
Prevention, control and eradication of animal diseases in all animals in the state including livestock and pets (dec.alaska.gov)
Main Veterinarians
We are very happy to welcome you to the veterinarian hub of the FEI website. Within the following pages, you will find useful information and advice on specific issues relevant to your role as a Veterinarian working at an FEI event either in a treating or official capacity. We would like to remind y... (inside.fei.org)
What Is a Veterinarian? Uncovering the Role of Animal Doctors
You know a little bit about what DVMs do, but just what is a veterinarian? Take a look at this animal-focused career. (sgu.edu)
Becoming a Veterinarian - AAVMC
Embark on an exciting career path where you can put your knowledge and compassion into practice. Whether you’re a student or advisor, this portal can help you put it all together, from career information to tools that will help walk you through a successful veterinary school application. (aavmc.org)
Additional Resources on Veterinarians
The links below are provided for you to find more information on veterinarians.
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