* DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) and VMD (Veterinary Medical Doctor): These are *professional* degrees. They are essentially the same degree, with the name varying by institution. The curriculum focuses on the practical skills and knowledge needed to practice veterinary medicine. Graduates are licensed to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases in animals. The emphasis is on applied knowledge and clinical experience. A DVM/VMD is *not* a research degree.
* PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): This is a *research* degree. A PhD in a veterinary science-related field (like veterinary pathology, immunology, or pharmacology) requires extensive research, culminating in a significant original contribution to the field of knowledge. While PhD candidates may gain some clinical skills, the primary focus is on independent research, publishing findings, and contributing to the scientific literature. A PhD does *not* license someone to practice veterinary medicine; it qualifies them for research-oriented careers (academia, industry research, etc.).
In short:
* DVM/VMD: Prepares you to *practice* veterinary medicine.
* PhD (in a veterinary science-related field): Prepares you to conduct *research* in veterinary science.
It's possible to hold both a DVM/VMD and a PhD. A veterinarian might pursue a PhD to specialize in research within their field.