Food Animal Veterinarian
Veterinarians are responsible for maintaining the health of animals as well as the diagnosis and treatment of sickness, disease and injury in food production animals such as cattle, swine, poultry and fish. They monitor animal performance and provide regular feedback via performance management reports and provide technical expertise in health management, including biosecurity, disease identification and prevention.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Provide health care for livestock and possibly laboratory animals
- Maintain the health of animals through general examinations to determine nature of illness or injury and by administering medications and vaccines
- Complete various laboratory testing for diagnosis and ongoing maintenance of animals including testing and vaccinating to prevent and control contagious animal diseases
- Research new diseases, medicines and procedures
- Mentor veterinary technicians regarding veterinary medicine and animal-related illnesses
- Adhere to standard safety protocols and maintain a clean, sterile environment
- Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of industry standards and equipment present in the industry
- Euthanize animals when necessary
- Provide preventative care to maintain animal health
- Maintain documentation for each specific animal treated
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- chemistry
- physical science
- mathematics
- focus on sciences such as animal science and biology
Education/Training Required:
A doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) is required. A bachelor’s degree in animal science, biology, chemistry, animal nutrition, zoology or other related majors is required before being accepted to a doctoral program.
