Definition: "Having to do with the diagnosis, cure and prevention of animal diseases."

Required qualifications: Veterinary science is the most difficult degree course, at least in the United Kingdom, to get a place on - it is easier to become a doctor. Only six universities in the UK run undergraduate veterinary science courses - there are 31 veterinary colleges in the United States and Canada - and students who are accepted onto the courses are some of the brightest in the country.

n the US: A high GPA, preferably 3.0 or above; other factors taken into consideration are GRE scores, completion of compulsory prerequisite courses, and experience in the veterinary field. Veterinary schools in the US run four-year programs, accepting applications from students who have completed two or more years at college. Most veterinary schools require 180 hours of experience before they will accept you onto the course.

Other skills: The emphasis is firmly placed on academic excellence in veterinary science, and students have to be highly motivated and able to work and revise in their own time. Emotional strength can be important too - vets have to make critical decisions regarding animals lives and be able to deal with a very pressured, demanding job, day in, day out.

Salary: Starting salaries range from about £17,000-£24,000 ($24,000-$36,000). Depending on what career path you choose to take, after 5-10 years experience the salary increases to around £33,000-£47,000 ($50,000-$70,000). Salaries may vary depending on the country you work in. 

Many, many people dream of becoming vets - all of them are animal lovers, but it takes more than that to be a successful veterinarian. Often, being an vet means putting animals to sleep - either because nothing can be done to relieve their illness or injury, or because their owners can't - or won't - pay for. Having to make tough decisions such as this means that 'animal love' has to be greater than 'aren't they cute'!

Vets who specialize in marine mammals are few and far between, but positions featuring marine mammals are even less. Vets usually work in general practice for at least a few years before specializing, but it may be possible to take a module in marine mammals during your veterinary science course. A useful way to get a 'foot in the door' in this field is to join the International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine, which will help you get contacts in the field.

Despite the difficulties facing any potential vet of the future, a career in veterinary medicine, whether with marine mammals or not, is one of the most rewarding medical careers!