Dogs, cats, birds and reptiles may be as much a part of the family as any human member. Pet veterinarians are doctors for your furry, feathered or scaly friends. Veterinarian for pets are highly trained professionals who can help with all manner of preventative medicine and treatment of conditions.
Most pet veterinarians work out of an office clinical setting, but some may offer house calls or mobile services. Most people think of a pet veterinarian when they hear the word vet, but there are vets who care for all sorts of animals including livestock, exotic zoo animals and horses. There are also veterinary specialists who focus on just one aspect of treatment, like dermatology or nutrition.
Pet veterinarians are frequently seen by pet owners when their companion animal is sick, has a chronic disorder or is injured. Vets assist in diagnosis and treatment of animal maladies and provide aftercare when needed. Being a vet can be difficult at times, because their patients are unable to tell them what is wrong. Vets are also present when owners have to make the heart breaking decision to euthanize a pet when they have a low quality of life.
Pet veterinarians also provide vaccination and preventative medicine to companion animals. Vaccinations for illnesses like distemper and rabies are often required by law. Vaccinations for conditions like kennel cough are especially important for animals that are boarded or frequently socialized with large groups of animals. Preventative medicine and treatment of parasites are also a common scope of practice. Parasitic infections, like heart worm, can be prevented with regular treatment.
Veterinary surgery is often preformed on animals who have not been fixed. The process of spaying or neutering an animal is important to control the pet population and help keep unwanted animals from shelters where they may be euthanized. Seeing a pet veterinarian is as important as regular check ups with your human doctor, be sure you do not neglect your veterinary care.
