A doctor of veterinary medicine requires as much training to perform his duties as any other professional.
Careers in Veterinary Medicine
Most veterinarians work in private practice. Some work with small animals and their owners in clinics; rural veterinarians often pay house calls to treat large animals.
Veterinarians face the risks involved in working with animals, such as getting bitten or scratched; they need good bedside manners to deal with their patients' owners; they may need to travel frequently.
Veterinary Education and Training
Competition for veterinary jobs is high. Veterinarians need training in biology, zoology, genetics, and embryology, among other sciences. Pre-veterinary courses in business management may be useful.
Becoming a Veterinarian
- Before attending university, gain some familiarity with animals by volunteering at a veterinary office, animal shelter or farm.
- Choose an undergraduate degree in pre-veterinary medicine or one of the sciences, such as biology.
- Find out which courses are required by the American Veterinary Medical Association and take them. Maintain a very high grade point average at the undergraduate level.
- Attend a post-graduate veterinary school for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.
- After graduation, take the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam to get your license. A state exam may be required as well.