(1) Upon the recommendation of the state veterinarian, the board may within its discretion appoint a deputy state veterinarian.
(2) The deputy state veterinarian shall hold office for a term of four (4) years and until a successor has been elected and qualified. He or she shall be subject to removal from office by the board at any time for cause.
(3) The deputy state veterinarian shall be a licensed veterinarian who has practiced veterinary medicine for at least three (3) years prior to his or her appointment.