Veterinary surgeons (usually known as vets) look after the health and welfare of animals. Most work in general practice, with domestic pets, farm and zoo animals.
As a vet in general practice you would:
· diagnose and treat sick and injured animals
· help animals to stay healthy by doing regular health checks, giving vaccinations and advising owners on care and diet
· operate on ill or injured animals
· carry out x-rays, laboratory tests and ultrasound scans
· provide on-going care for in-patients
· check farm animals and advise on how to stop diseases spreading
· neuter animals to stop them breeding
· carry out euthanasia of terminally ill, severely injured or unwanted animals
· supervise veterinary nurses and support staff
· Keep records of the treatments you carry out.

Key Skills
· commitment to doing lengthy and continuing training
· a high level of scientific ability
· willingness to work long and irregular hours
· an interest in the welfare of animals without being too sentimental
· physical fitness, manual dexterity and good powers of observation
· the ability to make difficult or unpopular decisions
· an assertive nature to enforce public health and hygiene laws
· a patient, sensitive and sympathetic approach with animal owners
· The management and business skills to run a practice.