Veterinarians are the animal experts—from pets to livestock. And their deep knowledge stems from research and development; they understand the whole animal. They use this expertise to diagnose, treat and research diseases and sustain animal life for years to come.
Veterinary pathologists diagnose diseases by going straight to the source—they examine animal tissues and body fluids. Veterinary pathology is divided into two branches: anatomical pathology (examination of organs, tissues and bodies) and clinical pathology (examination and urine and blood). This isn’t for the faint of heart—veterinary pathologists are the crux of sustaining animal health.
Veterinary technicians use a keen attention to detail to provide animals with the best possible care. From private clinics to animal hospitals to research facilities, veterinary technicians are crucial in both emergency and day-to-day care of animals.
The world is changing fast in the wildlife kingdom and we need to be able to help wildlife thrive in their natural habitat. We couldn’t do this without the help of wildlife biologist and zoologist. These professionals study the characteristics and behavior of animals – gaining a better understanding of how they interact with each other and their environments. Through breeding programs, informational presentations, and collecting and analyzing biological specimens, zoologists and wildlife biologists work on the front lines of the effort to preserve our planet’s biodiversity.
The focus of an entomologist’s work can take them anywhere in the world as an expert in one main thing: insects. Entomologists study everything about insects from their classification to their behavior, life cycle, distribution and so on. A boundless and versatile career, entomologists work as researchers, teachers and consultants—for universities, private companies or government agencies. Where bugs go, entomologists follow; their impact is truly global.
As animals’ lives improve, so does human quality of life, and the availability of nutritious food on our tables. Animal geneticists work to determine which traits are most desirable – such as greater resistance to disease, or higher milk output – then help to promote those traits through breeding programs.
If you have a passion for animals and a love for science, then an animal nutritionist may be the perfect career for you. Animal nutritionists spend their time analyzing behavior and growth of all species of animals to make decisions about their health and wellbeing. They provide producers and/or animal caretakers with feeding recommendations that will increase the quality of life for all animals.
If you are solutions-focused with a passion for animals, a career as an animal scientist could be a great fit for you. They research genetics, nutrition, growth, development and reproduction of domestic livestock and companion animals to better animal quality of life and well-being.
The existence of water, and the life that it supports, makes our planet unique. Aquatic scientists often work in interdisciplinary teams to conduct research that monitors and studies the overall health and behavior of both plant and animal life in aquatic ecosystems. This research often uncovers exciting discoveries the pull back the curtain on many unknowns about life under that water’s surface. By understanding aquatic life, aquatic scientists are able to preserve our vital resources for generations to come.
From the farm to the rainforest, to companion and ocean animals and beyond — our planet is home to a vast array of animal species. Students interested in the study of animal healthcare may consider pursuing a doctorate degree in veterinary medicine. This advanced degree focuses on the study of animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, management and medicine. Coursework may include pharmacology, neuroscience, toxicology, pathology, immunology, epidemiology, as well as clinical rotations. Graduates who earn their doctorate in veterinary medicine may pursue careers in zoos, private practice, public health, research or in conservation.
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