They also help prevent the outbreak and spread of animal diseases, some of which can be transmitted to human beings. A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree requires a minimum of 6 years of college consisting of a 4-year professional degree program preceded by at least two years of pre veterinary study. Experience in part-time or summer jobs working with animals is advantageous. To obtain a license applicants must have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited college of veterinary medicine and pass a written, and in most state, an oral state board proficiency examination.
Most entrants are recent college graduates.
Some are transferring from part-time jobs in other occupations that they have held while in school. In rural areas they must work outdoors in all kinds of weather. Veterinarians are located in all parts of the country, and the type of practice generally varies according to geographic setting.