An animal scientist applies principles of the biological, physical, and social sciences to the problems associated with animal production and management. Animal Science is also concerned with foods of animal origin: companion, research, meat, dairy foods, and eggs. The food industry is one of the largest and most important industries in the United States. In addition, animal science is concerned with aspects of companion animals, including their nutrition, care, and welfare. Companion animals are used for recreation or leisure purposes as well as the maintenance of animal health and well-being. If interested in understanding these, then a career in an animal science field may be your key in a rewarding future. Professional education and training in the animal sciences can prepare you for challenging career opportunities in such areas as animal production, breeding, health maintenance and disease control, marketing, processing, distribution, and numerous allied service industries. Additionally, it is a convenient major for biologists interested in animals and an eventual career after veterinary, medical, dental, or graduate school.