Which professional would diagnose and treat diseases in animals and may perform surgeries?

• A. Dietitians (RD)
• B. Veterinary assistants
• C. Ophthalmologist
• D. Veterinarians

Answer: (D)

Diagnosing and treating illnesses in animals, and performing surgeries when needed, is the work of a veterinarian. Veterinarians complete veterinary school and earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, gaining licensure to examine animals, order and interpret tests, diagnose conditions, prescribe treatments, and perform surgical procedures. They care for pets, livestock, and wildlife in clinics, hospitals, farms, and shelters, providing preventive care as well as treatment. Other roles have narrower scopes: dietitians focus on nutrition, veterinary assistants help with care under supervision and aren’t licensed to diagnose or perform surgeries, and an ophthalmologist specializes in eye health (often with a veterinary specialty) rather than handling broad medical diagnoses across the body.