Is becoming a veterinary surgeon right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
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How to become a Veterinary Surgeon
Becoming a veterinary surgeon involves a genuine passion for working with animals and a specific pathway, including veterinary school and a specialized residency program. Here is an overview of the educational requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. High school education provides a foundation in basic communication and math and organizational skills, and it lays the groundwork for further learning.
Bachelor's Degree
Obtain a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Since not all schools offer an undergraduate program in veterinary medicine, many aspiring veterinarians opt for a degree in animal sciences, zoology, biology, chemistry, or another related field. Typical prerequisite coursework for veterinary school includes classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
Animal Experience
Gain hands-on experience working with animals. This can be obtained through volunteering or employment in veterinary clinics, animal shelters, research settings, or on farms or ranches.
Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT)
Prepare for and take the Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT). This standardized test assesses prospective veterinary students’ academic and scientific knowledge in areas such as biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
Apply to Veterinary School
It's important to note that admission to veterinary school is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Applicants often need a strong academic record, relevant animal experience, letters of recommendation, and a well-prepared application.
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree
Apply to and complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program at an accredited veterinary school. These programs typically last four years and provide a broad foundation in veterinary medicine through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Core coursework focuses on subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, surgery, and clinical skills. Practical experience is gained through clinical rotations and externships in various aspects of veterinary medicine, including surgical care.
Licensing Exam
After completing the DVM program, graduates must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) or a state-specific licensing exam to become licensed to practise veterinary medicine.
General Practice or Internship
Consider gaining experience in general veterinary practice or completing a one-year rotating internship. This provides a foundation in various aspects of veterinary medicine before specializing in surgery.
Residency in Veterinary Surgery
Pursue a specialized residency in veterinary surgery. Residencies in this field typically last three years and provide intensive training in surgical procedures, techniques, and related areas. Look for programs accredited by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) or equivalent organizations in other regions.
Research and Publications (Optional)
Engage in research activities and consider publishing papers in reputable journals. While not mandatory, contributing to research can enhance your standing in the field.
Certification / Professional Organizations
The primary organization for providing board certification for this specialty is the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). The ACVS awards ‘Diplomate’ status as follows:
- Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons
The ACVS offers board certification in surgery, indicating that a veterinary surgeon has completed a surgical residency, published original research, and passed a rigorous examination. ACVS Diplomates are recognized as experts in both soft tissue and orthopedic surgery. - Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Large Animal)
The ACVS offers board certification specifically for large animal surgery. Veterinary surgeons specializing in equine surgery, for example, can pursue this certification to demonstrate their expertise in surgical procedures related to large animals. - Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal)
This ACVS certification recognizes veterinary surgeons for their advanced skills in surgical interventions for companion animals.
The following are other certifications that the American College of Veterinary Surgeons views as relevant for veterinary surgeons:
- Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia (ACVAA)
- Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Radiology (ACVR)
- Diplomate the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC)
- American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) – The ABVP offers board certification in avian practice, beef cattle practice, canine and feline practice, dairy practice, equine practice, exotic companion mammal practice, feline practice, fish practice, food animal practice, reptile and amphibian practice, shelter medicine practice, and swine health management.
- American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) – The ACVIM provides board certification in internal medicine, with subspecialties such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, and other areas.
The following organizations also support the veterinary surgery community by fostering collaboration and providing resources, advocacy, and networking and continuing education opportunities:
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – The AVMA is a comprehensive association representing the broader field of veterinary medicine in the United States. It includes specialized sections and interest groups for veterinary surgeons.
- Veterinary Orthopedic Society (VOS) – The VOS is an organization dedicated to promoting the art and science of veterinary orthopedics. It provides a platform for sharing research, organizing conferences, and fostering collaboration among orthopedic specialists.
- Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (VECCS) – The VECCS is focused on emergency and critical care in veterinary medicine. While not specific to surgery, it addresses critical care aspects that may be of interest to veterinary surgeons.