Veterinarians have a love for animals and work to maintain and improve the health of all animals including pets, livestock and animals in zoos or wildlife preserves. Veterinarians work in a variety of environments such as private clinical practice, animal shelters, farms or zoos. Care of animals is inclusive and ranges from medical, surgical, dental and physical therapy services to sick or injured animals.

Veterinarians diagnose disease, prescribe medication, vaccinate animals and educate pet owners on such topics as weight management and care of aging pets. They may also conduct research on topics important to animal welfare and advocacy and publish their findings in veterinary journals. Some veterinarians play an important role in public health and safety by understanding diseases that affect both animals and humans or by serving as food and safety inspectors.