World Veterinary Day is celebrated on the last Saturday of April every year. Veterinarians are responsible for the health and safety of animals as well as working to enhance public health. They look into the diagnosis, treatment, and study of medical disorders and diseases in pets, cattle, and any other animals. This day honours the profession as well as those who practice it.
From preventive care to complex surgeries, veterinary science covers everything for animal welfare.
So, if you are an animal lover, and want to get into a veterinary science career, read on for all the information you need.
Veterinary Science: The first steps
- Complete school with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) in your 10+2.
- Clear the NEET exam to get admission in a Veterinary Course.
- The grades and age requirements differ depending on the state and university.
- An undergraduate (UG) course in Veterinary Science is for a duration of five to six years, and many subject areas covered in this course crossover with subjects of medical degrees.
- Specialise with a postgraduate(PG) degree for skill development and more visibility.
Veterinary Science: Career Options
- Veterinarian (VET)
- Veterinary Surgeon
- Veterinary Dentist
- Animal Pathologist
- Zoo Veterinarian
- Animal Care Specialist
- Animal Breeder
- Public health Veterinarian
- Veterinary Technician
Depending on the job role and experience level, you can expect to earn anywhere between Rs 10,000 to 50,000 per month.
Veterinary Science: Courses in UG
At the undergraduate level, commonly available courses include:
- Bachelor of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc & AH) – 5 years
- BV. Sc. in Animal Genetics and Breeding
- BV. Sc. in Animal Production & Management
- BV. Sc. in Veterinary Surgery & Radiology
- BV. Sc. in Veterinary Medicine, Public Health & Hygiene
Veterinary Science: Courses in PG
At the postgraduate level, you can look at one of the following based on the area you want to work in:
- Master of Veterinary Science (M.V.Sc) – 3 years
- MV. Sc in Veterinary Medicine
- MV. Sc in Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology
- MV. Sc in Veterinary Surgery & Radiology
Not all veterinary colleges offering PG degrees require bachelor’s degree for admission. Some of them require a fixed number of undergraduate credit hours and pre-veterinary courses in organic chemistry, zoology, biology and physiology.
Veterinary Science could be a very rewarding career for anyone who is an animal lover and also has an interest in medicine. And what can be a better day to make the choice than World Veterinary Day!