Welcome to the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps. This website is intended to provide a broad overview of the Veterinary Corps and our mission set. If you are unable to locate the information you are seeking, please feel free to contact us.
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Mission and Vision
Mission: Take care of people across the spectrum of DoD operations through sustained force health protection, veterinary health service support, and innovative research to enable readiness and conserve the fighting strength while supporting healthy Families, animals, and environments.
Vision: The world’s premier, globally postured, expeditionary veterinary force, elevating Warfighter readiness and protection through unparalleled execution of our dynamic Veterinary Service mission across the Joint Force.
Our Five Pillars
Animal Medicine: The Army Veterinary Corps provides healthcare for Department of Defense (DoD) animals, such as military working dogs and horses, ensuring they remain healthy and fit for their roles in national security. Veterinary Corps Officers (VCOs) also care for Service Members` pets and issue health certificates for military families relocating overseas. These duties contribute to the readiness and well-being of the armed forces and their communities.
Food Protection: The Food Protection mission ensures food safety and defense across a range of military facilities, including commissaries and child development centers. VCOs also inspect operational rations and audit civilian food suppliers to the DoD. When deployed overseas, VCOs assess local food and water sources to protect the health and readiness of military personnel.
Public Health: The Army Veterinary Corps’ Public Health mission involves VCOs as experts on zoonotic diseases at DoD installations. Their duties can range from providing rabies-prophylaxis guidance, advising on disease control at petting zoos, to preventing the spread of transboundary animal diseases during military movements. Through these efforts, VCOs play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health in various environments.
Research and Development: The Research and Development mission is carried out by VCOs who have completed Army-sponsored board certification or PhD-level training. These researchers support a wide range of DoD initiatives, driving innovations that enhance the health and effectiveness of warfighters, and ensuring the military benefits from the latest scientific developments.
Global Health Engagements: Global Health Engagements led by the Army Veterinary Corps involve collaboration with partner nations to improve public and animal health, enhance veterinary skills, and strengthen relationships. VCOs train local professionals, conduct disease surveillance, and improve food safety. Their efforts build global health resilience, foster international cooperation, and support regional stability.
Strategic Leadership
- Veterinary Corps Chief: COL Justin Schlanser
- Deputy Chief - COL Dale Beebe
- Corps Specific Branch Proponency Officer (CSBPO) - COL James (Jim) Pratt
- Senior Enlisted Advisor - SGM Christine Scheber
- Executive Officer (XO) - LTC Monica Martin
- Executive Fellow - CPT Haley Davis
Interested in Joining the Veterinary Corps?
Opportunities to join the Veterinary Corps exist for those interested in Active Duty, National Guard, or Reservist service. The primary routes of entry into the Veterinary Corps are the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) for 1st and 2nd year veterinary students and Direct Accession for veterinarians with an active state license. Other entry routes do exist (ie. Branch Transfer) but are considered on a case-by-case basis.
For more information on opportunities within the Veterinary Corps and how to join, click here.
**Please note that the Veterinary Corps Chief Office cannot assist with most logistical recruiting questions. These questions should be routed through your local Army Medical Recruiter (interest in HPSP or DA) or through an Army Recruiter (ROTC, Educational Delay). To find your closest recruiter, click here.
VCO Retirement Recognition
The Veterinary Corps recognizes retiring Soldiers and Civilians with awards based on their years of service. Available awards include a signed note and coin of excellence from the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps Chief, and a 25-year Medallion for those with over 25 years of service.
To be eligible, individuals must have a minimum of 20 years of federal service and meet specific conduct requirements. Commanders and Directors can nominate eligible retirees using the Veterinary Corps Retirement Recognition Form (linked below), which must be submitted at least 60 days before the presentation date. For further details on eligibility and the nomination process, please refer to the full policy document.
Email completed nomination forms to: usarmy.ncr.hqda-otsg.mbx.medcom-vc-chief-office@health.mil
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