Veterinary medicine is an ever-changing and increasingly diverse field. Veterinarians have the unique opportunity to choose a specialty that meets their unique lifestyle and interests. There are many different specialties within this field, and while all specialties are important, some are currently experiencing more growth than others. Let’s explore some of the most in-demand veterinary specialties in America today.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recognizes dozens of veterinary specialties. All are in demand to some degree, but different regions vary widely in their need for certain skillsets. In order to specialize in one or more fields, a veterinarian must complete years of rigorous postgraduate training, education, and examination. Here’s a brief list of veterinary specialties according to AVMA-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organizations™. 

The American Board of Veterinary Practitioners highlights these veterinary specialties. 

• Shelter medicine 
• Reptile and amphibian 
• Exotic companion animal 
• Canine and/or feline 
• Equine or avian 
• Dairy, beef cattle, or food animal 
• Swine health management 

The following specialties are recognized by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 

• Small or large animal internal medicine 
• Cardiology, neurology, or oncology 
• Nutrition 

The American College of Veterinary Microbiologists observes these specialties. 

• Virology 
• Immunology 
• Bacteriology/Mycology 
• Parasitology 

Other veterinary specialties recognized by the AVMA currently include: 

• Anesthesia and analgesia, 
• Animal welfare, 
• Behavior, 
• Dentistry, 
• Dermatology, 
• Emergency and critical care, 
• Laboratory animal medicine, 
• Veterinary nutrition, 
• Ophthalmology, 
• Poultry, 
• Preventative medicine, 
• Radiology, 
• Sports medicine and rehabilitation, 
• Small or large animal surgery including orthopedics, soft tissue, and neurosurgery, 
• Theriogenology, 
• Toxicology, and 
• Zoological medicine.

According to the AVMA, every veterinary specialist is currently in demand. This is likely because they only make up about 1-2% of total veterinarians in the U.S. Plus, training any specialist takes time and effort, and there simply aren’t enough residency programs to accommodate those who wish to become specialized. 

Today, many universities are struggling to recruit veterinary cardiologists, neurologists, radiologists, and pathologists. Meanwhile, private practices continue to seek veterinary specialists in internal medicine, surgery, emergency and critical care, dentistry, dermatology, and ophthalmology, as well as radiology. 

It’s worth noting that diagnostic imaging has undergone a major shift alongside the advancement of internet and computer technologies. Many veterinary radiologists and pathologists now work remotely from home as consultants for private practices and diagnostic laboratories. Here’s a closer look at some of the most in-demand veterinary specialties in the U.S.

Veterinary radiology is the branch of veterinary medicine that employs medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases. These specialists are trained to interpret diagnostic images which may be produced using X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or nuclear medicine. 

Veterinary radiology plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, from broken bones to different forms of cancer. In addition, radiologists often work closely with other specialists, such as veterinary cardiologists, oncologists, and surgeons, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

Veterinary cardiology is the study of the heart and blood vessels, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in animals. It’s a relatively new specialty, and it’s constantly evolving as we learn more about different animals’ cardiovascular systems. 

Common cardiovascular diseases include conditions such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects. Veterinary cardiologists use a variety of diagnostic tools to assess the health of the animal cardiovascular system, including echocardiography, electrocardiography, and radiography. They also perform a variety of therapeutic procedures such as catheterization, pacemaker implantation, and surgery.

Veterinary internal medicine specialists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases within internal organs. This is also a somewhat recent specialty, and it’s one of the most rapidly growing branches of veterinary medicine. 

There are many reasons for this growth, but one of the most important is the increasing awareness of the significance of preventive medicine. As more people understand the importance of keeping their pets healthy, they’re more likely to take them to the veterinarian for regular checkups and to seek prompt treatment when they become ill. 

Furthermore, advances in veterinary medicine have made it possible to treat some previously incurable diseases like certain types of cancer. As a result, veterinary internal medicine has become an essential part of the overall veterinary profession.

Veterinary surgery involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of bodily disorders in animals. Veterinary surgeons use a variety of techniques and tools to treat their patients including X-rays, MRI, and CT scans. They perform elective procedures such as spaying and neutering, as well as emergency surgery for injuries sustained in accidents.

In addition to being skilled in surgery, veterinary surgeons must have a strong knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology. They must be able to work quickly and efficiently under pressure, as many of their patients are in pain or distress. The best veterinary surgeons are also compassionate and understanding because they sometimes have to deliver unwelcome news to pet owners. This specialty is an essential part of the veterinary team, and they play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of our furry friends.

Veterinary neurology is a branch of veterinary medicine that handles the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system disorders in animals. Veterinary neurologists recognize and treat neurological conditions such as seizures, epilepsy, stroke, trauma, and tumors of the brain and spinal cord. 

They also work to improve the quality of life for animals with chronic nervous system conditions. In addition to treating patients, veterinary neurologists also conduct research to develop new treatments for these conditions. The goal of veterinary neurology is to improve the health and welfare of animals by providing the best possible care for their neurological conditions.

Veterinary ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye disorders in animals. They are specially trained to manage a wide range of eye diseases, from common issues like conjunctivitis to more severe conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts. 

In many cases, veterinary ophthalmologists successfully treat eye disorders using a combination of medical and surgical interventions. These specialists also play a key role in conducting research into the causes and effects of various eye diseases. This research helps to improve the quality of care for all animals, both domestic and wild.

Veterinary specialties will continue to be in high demand for the foreseeable future. Now is an amazing time to work in this industry or even to get started in your career. However, if you’re a veterinary clinic, college, or hospital in need of specialized staff, then competition for these positions has never been higher. 

That’s where we come into the picture. Our nationwide staffing agency can help your team source the most qualified veterinarians from all over the country. We encourage you to contact us today if you ever need help putting together an appealing job offer or finding experienced veterinary specialists for your unique needs.