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also see Veterinary Technician Programs
Veterinary specialty careers are perfect for those who wish to develop a high degree of skill in one specific area of veterinary medicine. Veterinary specialties are in high demand, because the process of becoming a veterinary specialist can be so demanding.
Before you can become a veterinary specialist, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree in a field such as animal sciences and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from an accredited university. Then, choose a veterinary specialist field; the American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes over twenty specialty fields.
Veterinary specialties range from anesthesiology to zoological medicine. Each specialty has its own requirements, and you'll need to attend a university-based residency program or work in an approved veterinary specialty center. You'll probably need to fulfill the following requirements in your specialty:
As a veterinary specialist, you'll work in combination with a general practitioner who will refer cases to you. This means you won't handle routine care such as vaccinations and spaying/neutering; instead, you'll be working only on cases and procedures that fall within your specialty.
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