The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word VET
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
V
E
T
More clues leading to the result VET
- Surgeon's brief ban
- US ex-serviceman, seventy-five today? Much less than that
- Check content of abusive texts
- Check on old soldier
- Energy’s put into mounting television screen
- Experienced animal doctor to investigate
- Set about tackling drug check
- Fully examine heads of victims experiencing trauma
- Someone to perform a cat scan or lab test? Check!
- Review Vatican City – and in Latin
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Old soldier/I might treat SEALs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case old soldier/i might treat seals = vet.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does VET mean?
VET noun- A veterinarian or veterinary surgeon.
- A veteran (a former soldier or other member of an armed forces).
- To thoroughly check or investigate particularly with regard to providing formal approval.