I think being a vet is about the greatest profession you could strive for. The idea that you want to help God's creatures and take all the necessary schooling and hard work it takes to get there is nothing, but commendable.
If there were no people above the materialism in this world, it would be a very sad place, indeed. In your heart you know your goal is admirable, and so do all of us. Some people just don't get it. Their arrogant contempt probably comes from seeing something in you they wish they had. Something that might not be cool or hip, but something good.