What is a Board Certified Veterinary Internist?
A board-certified internist, an ACVIM Diplomate, is a veterinarian who
has undertaken further specialty training in the discipline of veterinary
internal medicine, and who has been certified by the American
College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) in the specialty of
small animal internal medicine.
Veterinarians wishing to become board certified must complete a three-year residency program, meet specific training and
caseload requirements, and have published research. Residents train under ACVIM Diplomates, which ensures that the resident
receives training that follows strict guidelines. Once the residency has been completed, the resident must pass a
multiple day examination. If the resident passes the examination they are awarded a "diploma" in veterinary internal medicine,
certifying them as an ACVIM Diplomate. Veterinary internal medicine encompasses the disciplines of cardiology,
endocrinology, gastroenterology, hematology, immunology, infectious disease, nephrology/urology, neurology and respiratory
disease.
What is a Board Certified Veterinary Oncologist?
A board certified oncologist, an ACVIM Diplomate, is a veterinarian who has undertaken further specialty training in the discipline of veterinary internal medicine. A veterinary oncologist has completed the same requirements as an internist and has received board certification in the study of cancer in dogs and cats. These veterinarians are specially trained to diagnose and treat animals with cancer. Most oncologists work in specialty veterinary hospitals and universities and treat dogs and cats with cancer on a regular basis. Some people choose surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy for their pets with cancer.