A veterinarian, often called a vet or veterinary surgeon, is a medical professional who practices veterinary medicine, focusing on the health and medical care of non-human animals. Veterinarians diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of health conditions and injuries in animals, including pets, livestock, zoo animals, and wildlife. Their work includes preventive medicine such as vaccinations and nutrition, surgery, reproductive health, disease control, and advising animal owners on care and behavior. They also play a role in public health by helping prevent zoonotic diseases (those that can spread from animals to humans) and ensuring food safety through the health management of farm animals
. To become a veterinarian, one must complete extensive education, typically earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree after undergraduate studies, followed by possible specialization through internships or residencies
. Veterinarians work in diverse settings such as clinics, hospitals, farms, zoos, research facilities, and government agencies
. In summary, a veterinarian is a licensed animal doctor dedicated to improving animal health and welfare, which also benefits human health and safety
