Veterinarians are doctors trained to protect the health of both animals and people. In a clinical hospital environment, veterinarians work with large and small animals to evaluate animals’ health; diagnose and treat illnesses; provide routine preventive care; prescribe medication; and perform surgery. Some veterinarians specialize in areas such as surgery, internal medicine, ophthalmology or dentistry.

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In addition to opportunities in clinical practice, veterinarians may work in zoos, wildlife parks, or aquariums; focus on public health and regulatory medicine; enter academia or research; or they may pursue other career paths. Personal attributes that contribute to a successful career as a veterinarian include a strong science and math education, the ability to work well with animals and their owners, basic business and management training, excellent communication skills, and leadership and organizational skills.