According to research, there are around 121,461 licensed veterinarians in the United States. With so many of them, how do you know which one to take your animal to for surgery? Will there be a difference if you take your pet to a small animal or a large animal vet? The answer is yes. There are differences.
At Country Veterinary Service in Farmington, AR, we see animals of all sizes, but sometimes it can be confusing to understand what the differences are between veterinarian care for small animals versus large animals.
Small Animal Veterinarian
A small animal veterinarian is a veterinarian that primarily treats pets, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and other common household pets. Small animal veterinarians typically work in private clinics or hospitals and see a wide variety of cases daily.
Many small animal veterinarians have advanced training in specific areas, such as surgery, dentistry, and dermatology. Some of the common surgeries performed on small animals include spaying and neutering and dental work.
Large Animal Veterinarian
A large animal veterinarian is a veterinarian that primarily treats farm animals, such as cows, pigs, sheep, and horses. Large animal veterinarians often work in rural areas and travel to farms to provide care for farm animals. They may also work in zoos or wildlife parks.
Many large animal veterinarians have advanced training in specific areas, such as nutrition, reproduction, and animal health. Some of the common surgeries performed on large animals include castration, C-sections, and dental work.
Some of the key differences between the two include:
- The type of animals they see.
- The size of the animals they see.
- The surgeries they perform.
- The training they receive.
How Do You Choose the Right One?
The type of veterinarian you choose for your animal should be based on the animal's needs. If your animal is sick or injured, you’ll want to take it to an animal hospital and see a veterinarian experienced in treating that condition. You may also want to consider the location of the animal hospital and whether after-hours care is offered. It'll also depend on the size of your animal. If you have a large animal, you’ll need to take it to a veterinarian experienced in treating large animals.
Schedule an Appointment with Us Today
At Country Veterinary Service in Farmington, AR, we are experienced in treating both small and large animals and offer a wide range of services to meet your animal's needs. Contact us today at (479) 267-2685 to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.