What is an ACVS Diplomate?

Only veterinarians who have successfully completed the certification requirements of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons are ACVS Diplomates and have earned "board certification" or the right to be called specialists in veterinary surgery.

Candidates seeking Diplomate status in the ACVS must have received a degree in veterinary medicine from a school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, served a one-year rotating internship, and completed a three-year surgical residency program. The residency program consists of closely supervised training during which the resident works with recognized specialists to acquire additional knowledge and skill in veterinary surgery.

Qualified applicants must submit extensive credentials to the ACVS documenting their training, clinical competency, and scientific contributions to veterinary surgery. Finally, they must pass comprehensive oral, written and practical examinations to earn Diplomate status.

All of our surgeons at Animal Surgical Clinic of Seattle are ACVS Diplomates.