When it comes to choosing a veterinarian, the process may not be as easy as you assumed. Just like our doctors specialize in various practices and work with certain age groups, genders, medical issues, and situations, there are a host of different types of veterinarians. Depending on the size, species, and medical needs of your pet you will need to see a certain type of vet. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 60,000 veterinarians in the United States at present. These vets work in many different arenas, ranging from neighborhood clinics and hospitals to government entities, research companies, animal food companies, and zoos.
A veterinarian is defined as an animal doctor with a degree in veterinary medicine, known as a D.V.M. or V.M.D.. All American vets must also have a state license. The head veterinary doctor is usually assisted by a team of animal medical professionals. These "nurses" are most often licensed in their trade but do not possess a doctorate. The most popular and well-known type of veterinarian is a conventional vet. These animal doctors are similar to a traditional Western doctor, and base their diagnosis on pharmaceutical medicine. Just like conventional medicine for humans, these animal prescriptions may be more likely to comfort than to remedy a problem. Traditional vet clinics usually have a team of technicians who operate advanced medical procedures to diagnose their animal patients. These procedures include MRIs, X-rays, chemotherapy, blood transfusions, physical therapy, or ultrasounds.
An alternate type of vet is a holistic veterinarian. Similar to a holistic doctor, these vets use the eastern principle that each part of the body is affected by the whole. A holistic doctor will use natural remedies to help heal your pets from acupuncture to a whole foods diet or herbal supplements. These vets are few and far between, but are an excellent aid to those men and women who do not support prescription drugs and want to treat their animals naturally. An integrative veterinarian combines traditional and holistic practices.
Not only are there a variety methods that vets use, but there are also vets who specialize in treating certain species of animals. A "pet doctor" is the term coined for a traditional veterinarian that deals with common household pets such as cats and dogs. These veterinarians can vaccinate your pet, complete routine check-ups, and do basic procedures like spaying and neutering. Neighborhood vets may also treat gerbils, rabbits, hamsters, rats, guinea pigs, and hamsters, but you will want to check with your local clinic before bringing your furry friend along for an unscheduled check-up. Sometimes, pet doctors provide reptile medical care as well. A select few traditional vets are professionals in animal dermatology. This is the study of the animals' skin. As well, many pet doctors have an emergency clinic that can issue pressing medical attention to a dog or cat. These 24 hour offices are the place to go if your pet is in need of immediate medical attention.
Another type of vet is an equine veterinarian. These individuals work specifically with livestock. They must have special certification in their field, and are able to help you with all your equestrian medical concerns. Equine vets will normally travel to you and your animal for check-ups or medical attention. These vets are known for their focus on horses, but some also treat cattle, sheep, pigs, donkeys, mules, or other livestock. Some racetracks, stables, or farms will keep a private equine vet on hand to care for the animals. An exotic veterinarian is a vet who cares specifically for non-domesticated, exotic animals. These vets will normally work at zoos, circuses, animal shows, or refugees. If you own a unique pet, you will most likely want to contact an exotic veterinarian for any medical needs. These men and women will care for unusual pets like monkeys, large lizards, big cats, and more.
Wildlife veterinarians normally work on preservations or in the wild to protect endangered species. They are travelling vets that are responsible for tagging wild animals and checking up on them to ensure that the breed lasts. They are also responsible for preserving the animals' natural habitat. Most wildlife vets are well-learned in the area of wild animal behaviors. If you encounter an injured wild animal on your property, or find an undomesticated animal in need, then you need to contact a wildlife veterinarian. With so many options, it will take some calculated research to choose the right animal doctor that can keep your pet healthy and happy. Make sure that you choose the right vet for your pet!