veterinaararst

A veterinaararst is a medical professional trained and licensed to practice veterinary medicine, the health care of animals. They diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries in pets, livestock, and wildlife, perform preventive care, conduct surgeries, advise on nutrition and welfare, and may contribute to public health through monitoring zoonotic diseases and ensuring food safety.

Most countries require a degree in veterinary medicine (such as Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or an equivalent title) from an accredited institution, followed by licensure or registration with a national or regional veterinary board. Some jurisdictions require passing national exams, supervised practice, and ongoing continuing education to maintain licensure.

Practice settings are diverse and include private clinics and animal hospitals, farms or mixed practices, zoos and wildlife centers, universities, and government or research facilities. Veterinary work often involves clinical examinations, diagnostic testing, prescription of medications, surgery, vaccination and preventive care, dental care, anesthesia, and the issuance of health certificates for travel or trade.

Common specialties within the field include internal medicine, surgery, dermatology, dentistry, ophthalmology, radiology, pathology, theriogenology (reproduction), and care for exotic species such as birds and reptiles. Veterinaararst roles also encompass animal welfare advocacy, client education, and collaboration with other health professionals in one health initiatives aimed at protecting human and animal health.

Historically, veterinary medicine developed in the 18th and 19th centuries with formal schools and professional bodies; today it plays a key role in animal welfare, agriculture, research, and public health. In Nordic and other languages, the term veterinaararst reflects local linguistic variants of the veterinarian profession.