Become a Veterinarian

So you have decided to become a veterinarian. Being a vet is a great job for anyone who loves dogs. Watching your vet in action, you know a little bit about what is involved.

You take your dog to his veterinarian for yearly shots and checkups. Maybe you had an emergency and your dog required immediate attention.

If you are as fortunate as we are to have a wonderful vet and staff, then you know the relief you feel knowing your pet is in good hands with knowledgeable and professionally trained individuals to care for your dog's needs.

Let's take a look at the duties of a veterinarian.

A veterinarian diagnoses diseases and other health problems your dog may have. He/she vaccinates for common dog diseases such as rabies, distemper and prescribes medication for animals that are injured or sick.

He/she tends to broken bones and other injuries, performs surgery and gives pet owners good advice on care and feeding and also, if you are looking for your next pet, which animals would best fit into your family.

And, on the down side, the vet will euthanize pets that are too old, sick or injured to be saved by surgery or other means. Your vet will do this as a last, humane act to keep your pet from further suffering.

Most vets have their own private practice and employ other vets to help out. Some vets have specialties, such as large animals (horses, cows, etc.) or exotic animals (fish, lizards, snakes, etc.).

The majority have small animal practices. Your regular family pets fall into this category.

If you choose to become a veterinarian, this job requires a high commitment level and schooling.

You will need a four-year undergrad education. General premed courses are a must such as English, humanities courses, science, biology, physics, chemistry and math.

Your vet courses will include animal biology, zoology, animal nutrition.

After this initial four years, you will need another four years at an accredited veterinary college to become a veterinarian. After which, you will receive your doctorate as either a DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) or VMD (Veterinary Medical Doctor), depending on the school.

Like regular people doctors, veterinarians can specialize in other kinds of medicine. Diagnostics, surgery, radiology, dentistry, cardiology, and holistic medicine are just a few.

And, of course, to be a veterinarian, you will have to be licensed. Not only will you need your doctorate, but you will have to pass a national board examination.

Your education doesn't stop when you get your degree and license. It is essential for veterinarians to be up to date on the latest discoveries and advances in pet care to better serve their patients.

If you are interested in this top dog job, click on the AVMA American Veterinary Medical Association website to find out more information.