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 Colorado, veterinarians are licensed professionals regulated by the Colorado State Board of Veterinary Medicine. As Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs), they are authorized to provide a range of medical services to animals, including vaccinations, disease prevention treatments, and emergency care. These services can be provided to pets, equine (horses), and food animals (such as cattle, pigs, and chickens). The licensure ensures that veterinarians meet the necessary educational and professional standards to practice veterinary medicine. Additionally, Colorado law requires continuing education for veterinarians to maintain their license, ensuring they stay current with the latest medical practices and standards of care. It's important for veterinarians to adhere to state statutes and federal laws, including the regulations concerning controlled substances and the reporting of certain animal diseases, to practice legally and ethically within the state.