Veterinarians are expected to maintain a high degree of professional pride, personal dignity, and integrity. They accept and abide by an ethical code and recognize that the public image of a profession is a reflection of the general demeanor and collective attitude of its members. Admission of the qualified applicant to membership in the veterinary medical discipline is a privilege extended by the profession rather than an obligation to the individual following completion of a prescribed curriculum. Membership carries with it privileges and responsibilities to the profession and to the various publics that it serves.

Veterinarians serve the needs of society and contribute to the health and welfare of people through participation in the clinical practice of companion animal medicine, herd health and production management, public and environmental health, basic and applied research, nuclear and space sciences, aquatic and marine biology, teaching and research, and clinical biomedical sciences. The profession will continue to make rapid progress, rising in prestige and stature, only through constant dedication to high ideals and through the individual achievement of its members. Each veterinary graduate and each veterinary student should constantly be aware of the moral, social, civic, and professional responsibilities of the veterinary medical profession and should strive continuously to develop and strengthen the principles upon which it is built.

Students contemplating a career in veterinary medicine should acquire a sound foundation in the biological and physical sciences and a general knowledge of the arts and humanities in both high school and college. In addition, they should be motivated by a liking for animals, a sincere desire to serve the public, a propensity for the biological and medical sciences, and a deep interest in the promotion of the health of animal and human populations. They must have a high aptitude for scientific study and must possess an excellent moral and ethical character.

*Excerpted from the Louisiana State University School
of Veterinary Medicine Website