The current enrollment for large animal practices, including cows and horses, is 116, according to the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association. But small animal practices have an enrollment of 986. There is also a trend toward mixed practices -- 429 veterinary practices in the state do work with both large and small animals.

Larry Mahr, a veterinarian since 1966, recently noticed health problems with one of his dairy cows. The cow had a twisted stomach and was eight months pregnant. He said that he is one of the dwindling few in the area who know how to treat the animal.

"There is a lot that goes into modern-day dairy farming. There are a lot of things for vets to do, and I think it's an exciting area to be going into if I were of that age," Mahr said.

Rebecca Mentink and Johnie Ambrosy, both fourth-year veterinarian students at University of Wisconsin-Madison, said they are excited about their job prospects.

"I grew up around cows, interacting with our veterinarians whenever they'd come out and I was there. And I had responsibilities on the farm, so that's where I fell in love with cows and just the thought of helping animals heal," Mentink said.

Source: WISCTV