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 Virginia, veterinarians are licensed professionals regulated by the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine, which operates under the Department of Health Professions. To practice as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in Virginia, individuals must obtain a license by meeting educational requirements, passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), and fulfilling any additional state-specific criteria. Licensed veterinarians in Virginia 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, equine (horses), and food animals (cattle, pigs, chickens, etc.). The scope of practice for veterinarians is defined by state law and professional regulations, which also establish standards for veterinary care and animal welfare. It is important for veterinarians to adhere to these regulations to maintain their license and avoid professional misconduct charges.