What is a Board-Certified Surgeon
What Board Certification Means
Board-certified veterinary surgeons complete extensive advanced training beyond veterinary school, including internships, multi-year surgical residencies, published research, and rigorous board examinations.
A Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons has demonstrated advanced expertise in managing complex surgical cases and works collaboratively with primary care veterinarians to support patient outcomes.
ACVS Definition
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 surgical procedures as part of their practice. However, complex or high risk cases are best managed by a board-certified specialist.
Board-certified veterinary surgeons collaborate closely with pet owners and primary care veterinarians before and after surgery, working as a team to ensure seamless continuity of care for your pet.
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.”