The Different Types of Animal Doctors
Animal doctors are highly trained and skilled professionals who are dedicated to the care of animals. There are many different types of animal doctors, each with their own specialties and areas of expertise. Here is a brief overview of the different types of animal doctors that you may encounter.
Traditional Veterinary Medicine
- Veterinary medicine is the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease, disorder and injury in non-human animals. The scope of veterinary medicine is wide, covering all animal species, both domesticated and wild, with a wide range of conditions which can affect different organs or systems.
- There are many types of veterinary doctors, each with their own area of expertise. Some specialize in companion animals, such as cats and dogs, while others focus on farm animals, such as cows and pigs. Some vets may also treat exotic animals, such as reptiles or birds.
Here are some of the most common types of veterinary doctors:
- Companion animal vets:
These vets treat mostly cats and dogs, but they may also see other small mammals, such as rabbits and guinea pigs. They provide routine care, such as vaccinations and check-ups, as well as treatment for sick or injured animals. - Farm animal vets:
These vets work with farmers to ensure the health of their livestock. They provide routine care and advice on preventative measures to keep animals healthy, as well as treating sick or injured animals. - Equine vets:
These vets specialize in the care of horses. They provide routine care, such as vaccinations and check-ups, as well as treatment for sick or injured horses. They may also work with racehorse owners to ensure the health of their athletes. - Exotic animal vets:
These vets treat non-traditional pets, such as reptiles, birds and small mammals. They provide routine care and advice on preventative measures to keep these animals healthy
Veterinary Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture is a special form of acupuncture that is used to treat various medical conditions in animals. This type of acupuncture has been used for centuries to help treat a variety of different medical conditions in both humans and animals.
The use of acupuncture for animals is based on the same principles as the use of acupuncture for humans. Acupuncture is believed to help unblock energy pathways in the body, which can help to relieve pain and promote healing.
There are a number of different conditions that can be treated with veterinary acupuncture. Some of the more common conditions include:
- Arthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Skin allergies
- Digestive problems
- Chronic pain
Veterinary Chiropractic
Veterinary chiropractic is the practice of assessing, diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders in animals. It is a hands-on approach that uses manipulative therapy to treat problems with the spine, joints, muscles and connective tissues.
Veterinary chiropractors work with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, Farm animals and exotics. They use a combination of manual therapy techniques and exercise rehabilitation to treat their patients.
Veterinary chiropractic is a relatively new field, but it is growing in popularity as more pet owners become aware of the benefits of this type of care. If you are considering seeking treatment for your animal from a veterinary chiropractor, be sure to find one who is experienced and reputable.
How to Become an Animal Doctor
Becoming an animal doctor requires years of dedication and hard work. You’ll need to complete an accredited veterinary medicine program and pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). After that, you can become certified in a specialty area of veterinary medicine. Keep reading to learn more about what it takes to become an animal doctor.
Education and Certification
In order to become an animal doctor, also called a veterinarian, you will need to complete a four-year degree program at an accredited college of veterinary medicine. During your studies, you will take classes in animal anatomy and physiology, along with general coursework in biology and chemistry. You will also participate in clinical rotations, performing medical procedures under the supervision of licensed veterinarians.
After completing your degree, you will need to pass the Veterinary Medicine National Exam (VMNE) in order to earn your state license. Once you are licensed, you can begin practicing veterinary medicine.
Licensing
To become a licensed animal doctor, you must graduate from an accredited Veterinary Medical school and pass a state licensing exam.
Professional Organizations
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is a professional organization for veterinarians in the United States. There are also many state and local veterinary organizations that can be found online or in your area. These organizations offer Continuing Education (CE) courses, which are required for licensure renewal, as well as networking and other benefits.
The Job of an Animal Doctor
Animal doctors care for the health of animals. They diagnose and treat medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and other animals. Animal doctors often work in private clinics and veterinary hospitals. Some may also work in zoos, research laboratories, or farms.
Responsibilities
An animal doctor is responsible for the medical care of animals. This may include the diagnosis and treatment of injuries, illnesses, and diseases. An animal doctor may also provide preventive care and oversee the health of animals. They may work in a variety of settings, such as zoos, farms, veterinary clinics, or private practices.
Work Schedule
Animal doctors generally work during regular business hours. However, they may be on call 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies.
Salary
While the median annual salary for all types of doctors was $208,000 as of May 2016, pay for animal doctors varies based on several factors. These include the type of animal they treat, their experience, the size of their practice, and the location of their practice. For example, those who work in busy metropolitan areas may earn more than those who work in smaller towns or rural areas.
The Pros and Cons of Being an Animal Doctor
Being an animal doctor can be a very rewarding career. You get to help sick animals and make them feel better. You also get to work with a variety of different animals, which can be fun. However, there are some downsides to being an animal doctor as well. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of being an animal doctor.
Pros
- You get to help sick animals and make them feel better.
- You get to learn about a wide variety of animals.
- You may get to work with other specialists to provide the best care possible for your patients.
- You can make a difference in the lives of owners and their pets.
- Most people think being an animal doctor is a very rewarding career.
Cons
Animal doctors, also called veterinarians, work with all types of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, cows and more. They diagnose illnesses and injuries, prescribe medications and perform surgeries on their patients. While this may sound like a dream job for animal lovers, there are also some downsides to consider.
As with any job that involves dealing with the public, being an animal doctor can be stressful at times. You will have to deal with angry or upset pet owners on a regular basis. You may also have to put down sick or injured animals, which can be emotionally difficult. In addition, veterinarians often work long hours and are on call for emergencies outside of normal business hours.
