Veterinary officers in the Corps:
- Carry out cutting-edge biomedical research to improve human health.
- Test and regulate the safety and effectiveness of veterinary medical drugs and devices.
- Ensure that meat and poultry products are safe and healthy through carefully monitored inspection programs.
- Quarantine and inspect animals brought into the country to prevent the introduction of new diseases.
- Manage programs to eradicate and control the spread of diseases that pose threats to animal and human health.
- Monitor the development and testing of new vaccines to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
- Enforce laws for the humane treatment of animals.
- Develop and enforce standards for laboratory and clinical studies.
- Help to ensure the safety of food processing plants, restaurants, and water supplies.
- Study the health effects of pesticides, industrial pollutants, and other contaminants on animals and people.
The work of veterinary officers in the Commissioned Corps goes beyond the routine of a traditional private practice. Being a veterinarian in the Corps is different for everyone. Many apply their clinical skills to prevent disease and respond to disease outbreaks among animal and human populations, and to provide state-of-the-art care and use of laboratory animals. Some work with world-class researchers and technicians to conduct cutting-edge medical research. Others serve in more general public health roles such as administration, planning, and coordination and are responsible for facilities with large staffs and multimillion dollar budgets.
Veterinary officers have the opportunity to advance their careers while performing much-needed public health services to underserved communities. Consistent with the One Medicine Concept, the focus is on improving the health of both animals and people.
Veterinary officers in the Commissioned Corps work throughout the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and in other Federal agencies. Most veterinary officers are assigned to the following:
Veterinary officers also work at the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Global Health Affairs, the National Disaster Medical System, and the State Department.
If you are a veterinary student or veterinarian interested in the Commissioned Corps, take the next step! E-mail us your questions, call us at 800-279-1605, or apply online now.