Veterinary Studies

Veterinary surgeons and nurses look after the needs of ailing, sick or injured animals. Different experts may specialise in small animals, farm animals or equine practice, or in exotic animals, wildlife, laboratory animals, poultry or aquaculture.

Vets specialising in small animals run open surgeries, where members of the public can bring their pets for treatment. Vets diagnose problems, treat the animal and, if necessary, perform surgery. They also offer advice to owners about nutrition and how to take care of their pets properly. The farm animal side of the business involves vets making personal visits to farms. They treat specific cases, oversee animal births, vaccinate animals against disease and advise on animal care. Vets can specialise in specific areas, such as the equine or zoological industry, food hygiene or the control of infectious disease (e.g. foot-and-mouth).

Some veterinary medicine graduates work for the government or official agencies, making sure that farmers and animal owners are keeping their animals healthy and in suitable conditions, while others can be involved in food hygiene and inspection.

UCD offers the only degree in Veterinary Medicine in Ireland; it does not accept mature applicants however, but up to five places are given to graduates. Most entrants have a degree in an associated subject like Zoology or Biochemistry; practical experience in a veterinary practice would also be welcome addition to any application. Alternatively UCD has a diploma in Veterinary Nursing which is based on the block release principle; applicants must hold a minimum of 20 hours paid continuous employment in a UCD recognised veterinary practice which must have been prior to application. The course consists of eight weeks full-time in UCD where students will build up a comprehensive personal portfolio illustrating their skills and knowledge.

A love of animals is obviously the predominate characteristic needed for this career; this interest must be combined with a determined nature, given the amount of study involved in the process of qualification. A certain amount of resourcefulness will aid any veterinary surgeon or nurse in the course of their employment; a strong stomach will be invaluable in some situations!

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