Veterinarians serve and assist animals with their health needs and concerns. They advise clients, including individuals, zoos, farmers, or ranchers on the proper tending to and caring for their pets or livestock. As animal doctors, they conduct medical procedures including immunizations, physical exams, and dental care procedures.
Veterinarians also provide emergency services including operations or euthanization. They diagnose and control animal illness and diseases and treat sick or injured animals. They prescribe medications when needed as part of a treatment, and perform diagnostic scans including X-rays or CAT scans. Veterinarians also treat fractures and dress wounds. They advise animal owners about the best practices for feeding and management of animal behaviors. They diagnose health problems and complications and provide preventative care, advice and services. When necessary, a veterinarian will refer a pet for diagnostic testing, blood work, urinalysis, or fecal exams. Some veterinarians also work in a public health capacity to help spay and neuter pets and to evaluate the safety of restaurants, water supplies, and food processing plants. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, veterinarians have completed a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program and obtained a license to practice within the veterinary profession.