Veterinarians care for the health of pets, livestock, and animals in zoos, racetracks, and laboratories. Some veterinarians use their skills to protect humans against diseases carried by animals and conduct clinical research on human and animal health problems. Others work in basic research, broadening our knowledge of animals and medical science, and in applied research, developing new ways to use knowledge.

Hours: On call 24/7

Opportunities: U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, and, increasingly, Homeland Security, colleges of veterinary medicine, medical schools, research laboratories, animal food companies, and pharmaceutical companies

Pay: Average salary is $84,335

Training: 3-4 years of college and 4 years of veterinary school

Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition , Veterinarians, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos076.htm (visited July 22, 2009 ).