The development of computer models to decrease the need for animal research also involves veterinarians. Government employees at the national, state, and local level, such as wildlife researchers or environmental and occupational epidemiologists, are often veterinarians. In military services , veterinarians provide medical expertise, work to ensure safe and nutritious food for both military personnel and civilians, manage animal research, and supervise animal research colonies. Veterinarians have also used their education and talents in the Peace Corps, contributing to improved nutrition, health, and standards of living in developing countries. Some veterinarians choose to work with exotic animals, treating unusual companion animals or captive wild animals in zoos or wildlife refuges.
Veterinarians assist in the rehabilitation of injured birds of prey and other wildlife.
The availability of exotic animal opportunities is limited. Board certification in one of more than twenty specialties qualifies veterinarians for an even wider variety of positions in both private and public practice. Specialties exist in veterinary internal medicine, surgery, anesthesiology, pathology, ophthalmology, and other areas that qualify a veterinarian for unique positions in private practice, industry, or academia.