A veterinarian is a licensed doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) and may provide vaccinations and other disease prevention treatments—and emergency care—for pet, equine, and food animal owners.
In California, veterinarians are licensed professionals regulated by the California Veterinary Medical Board. They must hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution and pass both national and state licensing exams to practice. California veterinarians are authorized to provide a range of medical services to animals, including vaccinations, disease prevention treatments, and emergency care. They can work with various types of animals such as pets, equines, and food animals. The scope of practice for veterinarians in California is defined by the California Veterinary Medicine Practice Act, which sets forth the standards for professional conduct, continuing education requirements, and the disciplinary process for violations of the Act.