The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has determined which veterinarians may use the term 'specialist' as part of their title. The AVMA has defined a veterinary specialist as one who has 'been certified by an AVMA-recognized specialty organization.'

There are numerous veterinary specialty organizations for the various branches of veterinary medicine including surgery, internal medicine, dermatology, ophthalmology, behavior, poultry medicine, etc. Each specialty organization has its own requirements of various hours of extra training; oral, written, and practical exams; and sometimes research projects. A veterinarian who satisfactorily completes these difficult requirements is called 'board-certified' and can designate him or herself as a 'specialist.'

There certainly are some expert veterinarians who for one reason or another have not completed the arduous task of becoming board-certified, but are extremely qualified to perform special procedures. These veterinarians may not use the designation 'specialist,' but are well-skilled in various areas of veterinary medicine.

Comments from our Veterinary Staff:

Pet owners who may seek the services of a 'specialist' will now have a better understanding of what that designation means. It is important to remember, though, that there are many veterinarians with considerable expertise in various areas who may not be 'specialists.'