Becoming a Veterinary Parasitologist

Pets-ParasitesMany of us love animals, including kitten and puppies. We caress them and play with them. But, do we really pay attention to the health risk they are exposed to? These animals are vulnerable to the attack from parasites. A Veterinary Parasitologist focuses on protecting the pets from parasites, including fleas, ticks, worms and bacteria.

While most common parasites are easily detected through simple examination, the Veterinary Parasitologists use their experience and expertise to examine the blood or stool samples of pets and do their analysis to figure out the disease and their solution. Surgery may not be required in such cases. Applying chemical treatment or administering antibiotic medication, most common parasites can be eliminated forever and secure the life of the pets.

They also play an important role to prevent the diseases from transferring to humans while treating the parasites on pets. Veterinary Parasitologists study all types of parasites, including ticks and tapeworms. They thouroughly research the relationship between parasites and the infected pets. They find ways to treat and prevent the diseases caused by them.

Veterinary Parasitologists, who work with animals, humans and plants, are generally employed at government agencies, non-profit organizations, pharmaceutical companies and private firms. In addition to treating the pets, they also participate in research work to find more about the diseases and develop vaccines.

Education Requirements:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: The aspiring Veterinary Parasitologists must go for a bachelor’s degree in microbiology, pathology of immunology to get the basic knowledge and training about this vast topic. They are also required to have strong coursework, which may include calculus, chemistry, and hands-on lab work.

2. Earn a Master’s Degree: Aspiring Veterinary Parasitologists can go for a master’s degree on the same subject, which would give them more knowledge and exposure. Some key topics in master’s degree, include zoonotic diseases, parasitic diseases and dynamic ecosystems.

3. Earn a Ph.D.: Getting a Ph.D. in Parasitology will boost the career prospects of Veterinary Parasitologists. Students will be required to complete research related to parasitology, write a dissertation, and defend the research thesis.

Salary Information: According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of Veterinary Parasitologists was $67,790 per year. Some of them earn more, based on their qualification, experience and efficiency.