MadSci Network: Zoology
Query:

Re: What is it like to be a zoologist (veterinarian)?

Area: Zoology
Posted By: Rick Huneke, D.V.M. Division of Comparative Medicine, Washington University Medical School, St. Louis, MO
Date: Thu Nov 14 18:15:23 1996
Message ID: 847866722.Zo


Veterinarians are similar to Zoologists in that they enjoy working with animals. Veterinarians must like school. Four years of undergraduate university training and four years of veterinary school is required to become a vet. In addition to the vet who takes care of your dog or cat, there are a variety of specialities that veterinarians may work in with additional training. For more information on veterinary education, see the Veterinary Career Resources page at http://netvet.wustl.edu/vcareer.htm.

I am a veterinarian who cares for animals used in Biomedical Research. My speciality is Comparative Medicine. Many scientists use animals in their quest for information, including Zoologists. My job is to ensure the health and well being of the animals used in research. I may help with the planning of experiments, suggest appropriate animal species for research projects, perform anesthesia and experimental surgeries and monitor the recovery of animals. I also observe the animals for signs of illness and treat them if necessary.

There are many laws and regulations protecting the animals used in research. Part of my job is to ensure that animals are being used correctly. I am on the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee whose job is to review all animal research performed in the institution and make sure it follows federal guidelines for the humane care and use of animals. You may want to see the Animal Research Data Base for more information of the use of animals in research. You can also check out the Electronic Zoo for information of many species of animals.

I hope some of you may consider a career in veterinary medicine.

Richard B. Huneke, DVM
Divisional Director of Veterinary Services
 School of Medicine
Campus Box 8061, 660 S. Euclid Avenue
St. Louis, MO  63110
(314) 362-3700
FAX:  (314) 362-6480
E-mail:  rick-h@wudcm.wustl.edu

Re: What is it like to be a zoologist (1)?
Re: What is it like to be a zoologist (2)?
Re: What is it like to be a zoologist (vet's perspective)?

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