What is a Board Certified Surgeon?

The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) is the AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty organization™ for certification of veterinarians in large animal and small animal surgery. The ACVS undergoes a comprehensive evaluation by the ABVS, a committee of the American Veterinary Medical Association, every three years to ensure that we are maintaining the required standards for our certification process.

Advanced Training:
A veterinary surgeon has undergone additional training after veterinary school in order to become a specialist. This training consists of a minimum of a 1-year internship followed by a 3-year residency program that meets guidelines established by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).

During the residency there are specific training and caseload requirements that must be met. In addition to these requirements, applicants must perform research that is published in a scientific journal and then pass a rigorous examination.

Specialists are called a “Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons” or a “board-certified surgeon.”

Your Animal’s Healthcare Team:
All veterinarians may perform surgery as part of their veterinary practice. However, difficult cases may be best managed by a specialist. Board-certified surgeons work closely with the owner and the primary veterinarian before and after surgery in a team approach to ensure continuity of care for your animal.

Veterinary surgeons are dedicated to providing the very best in surgical care. They also act as a resource for your primary veterinarian by providing consultations on difficult or unusual cases. With their advanced training, these specialists offer expertise that ensures the best possible outcome for the pet and Their owner.

If your animal develops a problem or injury requiring advanced care and procedures, your primary veterinarian or emergency room veterinarian may refer you to a surgeon.