VETERINARY MEDICINE - IT'S NOT JUST DOGS AND CATS!

For those of us used to life in the big city, it’s hard to believe that there are veterinarians out there who do not regularly work on dogs, cats and “pocket pets.” Believe it or not, veterinary medicine is a career option with many possible paths. In fact, even if you choose one path upon graduation, you can always pursue another aspect later on in your career. It might take a little re-education, but variety is the spice of life…

What kinds of jobs can a veterinarian get besides small animal practice?

Take a look:

Large animal medicine: cows and horses need doctors, as do their other farm animal friends. These veterinarians spend plenty of time outside and take their “clinic” with them in the form of a specialized pick-up truck. Got milk?

Public health: remember “mad cow” disease and anthrax? These are real animal diseases that make headlines due to possible human health risk. In fact, rabies vaccines for our pets are required by law to protect both our pets and us.

Research/Academia: life-saving medicines are created by DVMs who work in pharmaceutical companies and veterinary schools. Qualified educators teach veterinary students and constantly devise new medical and surgical techniques.

Regulatory medicine: these veterinarians work for the government and help to ensure the safety of animals imported into the U.S. They also inspect various food products and vaccines, as well as enforce humane laws for treatment of animals.

Military: The U.S. Army Veterinary Corps is a first line defender against bioterrorism. The U.S. Air Force veterinarians are part of the Biomedical Science Corps, where they work with other health professionals to prevent & treat disease.

This is just a sample of the veterinary career options available.

Sound appealing? If so, make sure to contact the American Veterinary Medical Association (www.avma.org) to see how you can become one of our next generation of DVMs!