Primate Veterinary Care Availability

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

The American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) has been certifying veterinarians since 1978, with Diplomates found in 49 of the 50 US states.
ABVP Diplomates also provide specialized care in 16 foreign countries, extending their expertise globally.
To become an ABVP Diplomate, veterinarians must complete a rigorous credentials process and pass a comprehensive board certification examination.
ABVP board-certified veterinarians must undergo a recertification process every ten years to ensure they maintain their specialty certification.

Finding specialized veterinary care for primates, or any exotic animal, often means looking for veterinarians who have gone beyond general practice. The American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) is a key organization that recognizes and advances excellence in species-specialized veterinary practice. Since its founding in 1978, ABVP has certified veterinarians who demonstrate superior knowledge and skill in specific animal categories, including those relevant to exotic species. These highly skilled professionals, known as Diplomates, are available in 49 of the 50 US states and extend their reach to 16 foreign countries, ensuring that advanced care is accessible in many parts of the world Find an ABVP Specialist Globally. Becoming an ABVP Diplomate involves a demanding process that includes a thorough review of credentials and passing a comprehensive board certification exam. This commitment ensures that these veterinarians maintain an exceptional level of clinical practice, providing top-tier care for their patients, and must recertify every ten years to uphold these high standards.

What is a Board-Certified Veterinary Practitioner?

A board-certified veterinary practitioner is a veterinarian who has achieved an advanced level of recognition in their field, demonstrating expertise beyond the general practice of veterinary medicine. Specifically, a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (DABVP) is a professional who shows exceptional knowledge, skill, and competency in the complete care of an animal. This certification signifies that a veterinarian has proven abilities in clinical practice that are clearly superior to the typical standards of the profession. In our analysis, we understand that most veterinarians who perform broad-based clinical practice do not hold this specific board certification, making ABVP Diplomates a select group of highly qualified individuals.

The ABVP was established in 1978 with a clear mission: to recognize and advance excellence in species-specialized veterinary practice About the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. This organization is recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) as a veterinary specialty organization, underscoring its authority and the rigorous nature of its certification process. ABVP Diplomates are driven by a commitment to the well-being of animals and those who care for them. They work in various settings, including private practices, veterinary schools where they educate future veterinarians, and even within the industry, contributing to animal health through research and development. The certification process is designed to ensure that these practitioners can deliver superior, comprehensive, and multi-disciplinary veterinary care throughout an animal's life.

Defining Superior Clinical Practice

When we talk about "superior clinical practice," we refer to the art and science of applying medical knowledge to animals for their care, as well as the alleviation and prevention of diseases. ABVP Diplomates are certified specifically in clinical practice for the species in which they specialize. This means they have demonstrated an ability to handle a broad range of clinical subjects relevant to their chosen species, focusing on the whole patient and their lifelong health needs. The ABVP certification sets these veterinarians apart because it requires them to show evidence of advanced skills and knowledge. This commitment to higher standards ensures that when an animal owner seeks an ABVP-certified veterinarian, they are accessing a professional whose capabilities have been thoroughly evaluated and verified. The ABVP's commitment to recognizing and advancing excellence ensures that these veterinarians are among the most ambitious and forward-thinking professionals in veterinary care.

The Role of ABVP in Veterinary Specialties

The ABVP plays a crucial role in defining and upholding standards for veterinary specialties. It is an AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty organization (RVSO) for certifying 12 recognized veterinary specialties (RVS). This recognition means that the ABVP's certification process meets the high standards set by the AVMA. The organization undergoes a comprehensive evaluation every three years by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS), a committee of the AVMA. This regular evaluation ensures that the ABVP maintains the required standards for its certification and recertification processes. This oversight guarantees that the title of Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (DABVP) truly signifies an elite level of expertise and dedication within the veterinary profession. The existence of such a rigorous certification body highlights the importance of specialized knowledge in veterinary medicine, especially for complex cases involving exotic animals like primates, where general veterinary knowledge may not be sufficient. "A Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners® (DABVP) is among the most ambitious, forward-thinking professionals in veterinary care, driven by a commitment to the well-being of animals and those who care for them," states the ABVP, emphasizing the dedication of these specialists.

Why Certification Matters for Animal Owners

For animal owners, particularly those with exotic pets like primates, understanding what ABVP certification means can be vital. Most veterinarians performing broad-based clinical practice are not board-certified. This distinction means that an ABVP Diplomate has voluntarily pursued and achieved a level of expertise that goes above and beyond the standard requirements for practicing veterinary medicine. They have proven their knowledge and expertise, earning the privilege to specialize in the treatment of one or more categories of animals. This dedication ensures that when an owner brings a complex case to an ABVP-certified veterinarian, they are receiving care from someone who has demonstrated a superior ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases specific to their animal's species. This commitment to care is a hallmark of ABVP Diplomates, who since 1978, have shared a common desire and willingness to deliver superior, comprehensive, multi-disciplinary veterinary care.

How Do Veterinarians Become ABVP Specialists?

Becoming an ABVP specialist is a challenging and multi-step process designed to ensure that only the most qualified veterinarians earn the title of Diplomate. Veterinarians interested in ABVP certification must first complete a rigorous credentials process. This initial phase involves a thorough evaluation of all submitted documentation, which demonstrates the candidate's advanced skills and knowledge in their desired recognized veterinary specialty (RVS) category. This isn't a simple application; it's a comprehensive review of a practitioner's experience, education, and contributions to veterinary medicine.

Once a candidate's credentials are accepted, they must then take and pass a comprehensive board certification examination. This exam is not just a test of general veterinary knowledge; it specifically assesses specialist-level knowledge and clinical expertise in their designated species. The goal is to identify veterinarians who can provide a level of clinical practice that is clearly superior to the norm of the profession. This demanding path ensures that successful candidates truly earn the title of Diplomate of the ABVP (DABVP), joining an elite group of species-specialized veterinarians dedicated to excellence.

The Rigorous Credentials Process

The credentials process is the gateway to ABVP certification, serving as a critical filter to ensure candidates have the necessary foundation for advanced specialization. This step requires veterinarians to compile and submit extensive documentation that showcases their experience and proficiency. For those pursuing the Private Practitioner Route, a minimum of four years in practice is required before applying. During this time, practitioners must actively demonstrate exceptional patient care and abilities, gathering evidence of their advanced skills and knowledge within their chosen species category. The application process evaluates these submissions thoroughly, looking for a clear pattern of dedication to specialized care and a depth of understanding that goes beyond general practice. The ABVP provides Certification Guidelines to help interested veterinarians navigate this complex process, answering common questions and systematically guiding them through the application and credentials submission. All applications, fees, and credentials are submitted via an online account, streamlining the administrative aspects of this demanding journey.

The Comprehensive Board Certification Examination

Following successful credentialing, candidates face the comprehensive board certification examination. This exam is the ultimate test of specialist-level knowledge and clinical expertise. It is meticulously designed to assess a candidate's ability to apply advanced medical knowledge to animals for their care, including the alleviation and prevention of diseases within their designated species. The content of the exam covers a broad range of clinical subjects relevant to their species specialty and whole patient, life-long care. Passing this examination is a clear indicator that the veterinarian possesses a depth of understanding and practical skill that aligns with the highest standards of the profession. The ABVP ensures the integrity and relevance of this exam through its regular evaluations by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS), guaranteeing that the certification process upholds the highest standards for its certification and maintenance of certification process. This commitment to rigorous testing means that an ABVP-certified veterinarian has truly demonstrated their exceptional capabilities.

Pathways to Becoming an ABVP Specialist

The ABVP offers different routes for veterinarians to achieve Diplomate status, recognizing the diverse career paths within veterinary medicine.

Private Practitioner Route

This route is specifically designed for veterinarians who are actively engaged in clinical practice. After a minimum of four years in practice, these veterinarians can apply if they can demonstrate exceptional patient care and abilities. The application process for this route requires substantial evidence of advanced skills and knowledge within their desired RVS category. This pathway acknowledges the hands-on experience and continuous learning that occurs in a clinical setting, valuing the practical application of specialized knowledge.

Hybrid Route

The Hybrid Route is a flexible option for veterinarians who may not fit neatly into the Private Practitioner or Residency categories. All veterinarians are encouraged to download and read the Certification Guidelines first, as these provide comprehensive answers and guidance for the application and credentials process. This route allows for a combination of experiences to meet the rigorous requirements, catering to various professional backgrounds.

ABVP Residency Route

For veterinarians who pursue formal residency training, the ABVP Residency Route provides a structured path to certification. Residencies are intensive training programs that offer in-depth exposure to a specific specialty, preparing veterinarians for the comprehensive board examination. While the research provided does not detail the specifics of this route, its inclusion highlights the ABVP's recognition of formal specialized training as a valid and important pathway to achieving Diplomate status. Regardless of the route taken, the ultimate goal is to certify veterinarians who possess an exceptional level of knowledge, skill, and competency in the care of the total patient, aligning with the ABVP's mission to recognize and advance excellence in species-specialized veterinary practice ABVP Specialist Certification Process.

How Do ABVP Diplomates Maintain Their Certification?

Maintaining ABVP certification is an ongoing commitment, ensuring that Diplomates remain at the forefront of veterinary medicine throughout their careers. To ensure continued excellence, an ABVP Diplomate must maintain certification through a recertification process. This process is not a one-time event; it happens every ten years, requiring veterinarians to consistently demonstrate their ongoing professional development and continued competency in their specialty. This regular re-evaluation ensures that the knowledge and skills of ABVP-certified veterinarians remain current and superior.

Furthermore, the integrity of the ABVP certification process itself is regularly scrutinized. The ABVP undergoes a comprehensive evaluation by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS), which is a committee of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). This external review occurs every three years to ensure that the ABVP maintains the required standards for its certification process and the maintenance of certification. This dual system of individual Diplomate recertification and organizational evaluation underscores the ABVP's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards in veterinary specialization.

The Ten-Year Recertification Cycle

The ten-year recertification cycle is a cornerstone of the ABVP's commitment to sustained excellence. Unlike some certifications that are lifelong once earned, ABVP Diplomates must actively engage in a process to renew their specialist status. This means that every decade, these veterinarians must provide evidence of their continued professional growth and demonstrate that they are still highly competent in their designated specialty. This might involve documenting continuing education hours, participation in scientific conferences, publishing research, or other activities that show a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine. The requirement for recertification ensures that animal owners seeking specialized care can trust that an ABVP Diplomate's knowledge and skills are up-to-date, reflecting the dynamic nature of medical science. This continuous pursuit of knowledge is essential for delivering superior, comprehensive, multi-disciplinary veterinary care, which is a hallmark of ABVP Diplomates.

Demonstrating Ongoing Professional Development

Demonstrating ongoing professional development is a key component of the recertification process. This goes beyond simply attending a few lectures; it involves a sustained effort to enhance knowledge and skills within their specific practice category. Diplomates are expected to engage in activities that deepen their understanding of new diagnostic techniques, treatment protocols, and advancements in animal welfare. This continuous learning ensures that they can effectively address emerging health challenges and incorporate the most current evidence-based practices into their clinical work. The ABVP's emphasis on ongoing development reflects the understanding that veterinary medicine, particularly in specialized fields like exotic animal care, is constantly evolving. By requiring this regular demonstration of competency, the ABVP reinforces its position as a leader in advancing excellence in species-specialized veterinary practice.

External Evaluation by the ABVS

The ABVP's commitment to high standards is not just internal; it is also validated by external oversight. The American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS), a committee of the AVMA, conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the ABVP every three years. This evaluation is critical because it ensures that the ABVP itself adheres to the rigorous standards expected of an AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty organization. The ABVS reviews the ABVP's certification guidelines, examination procedures, and recertification requirements to confirm that they meet the highest professional benchmarks. This triennial assessment provides an additional layer of assurance that the ABVP's processes for certifying and maintaining the certification of its Diplomates are robust, fair, and effective. This continuous oversight by the ABVS helps to maintain the credibility and prestige of the ABVP Diplomate title, guaranteeing that it continues to represent a clearly superior level of clinical practice in the veterinary profession. "The ABVP® undergoes a comprehensive evaluation by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS), a committee of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), every three years to ensure that it maintains the required standards for its certification process," highlights the rigorous external review that the organization undergoes.

Where Can You Find ABVP-Certified Veterinarians?

Finding an ABVP-certified veterinarian means locating a specialist who has met the highest standards of clinical practice in their designated species. These highly qualified professionals, known as ABVP Diplomates, have a wide reach, making specialized care accessible in numerous locations. In the United States, ABVP Diplomates are found in 49 of the 50 US states, indicating a broad distribution of these experts across the country. This extensive presence means that advanced veterinary care is available in most regions, though specific specialties might be more concentrated in certain areas.

Beyond the US borders, ABVP Diplomates also provide their expertise in 16 foreign countries. This international presence includes nations such as Australia, Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom, among others. This global distribution highlights the universal demand for high-level, species-specialized veterinary care. Furthermore, some of these dedicated professionals choose to certify in multiple recognized veterinary specialties. For example, 28 Diplomates are certified in two recognized veterinary specialties, one Diplomate holds certification in three specialties, and another exceptional individual is certified in four recognized veterinary specialties, demonstrating an extraordinary breadth of expertise.

ABVP Diplomates Across the United States

The presence of ABVP Diplomates in 49 of the 50 US states is a testament to the widespread recognition and pursuit of specialized veterinary excellence. This broad coverage means that whether you are in a major metropolitan area or a more rural setting, there is a high likelihood of finding an ABVP-certified veterinarian within a reasonable distance. For owners of exotic animals, including primates, this geographic reach is particularly important, as specialized care can be more challenging to locate than for common domestic pets. The distribution of these specialists allows for a greater opportunity to access advanced medical and surgical care, preventive wellness programs, and expert advice on behavior management tailored to specific species. The concentration of these experts in nearly every state underscores the commitment of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners to advancing excellence in veterinary care throughout the world, starting within its home country.

An International Network of Specialists

The reach of ABVP Diplomates extends significantly beyond the United States, forming an international network of veterinary specialists. These Diplomates are located in 16 foreign countries, which include: Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Netherlands, New Zealand, St. Kitts, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom Find an ABVP Specialist Globally. This global presence is vital for animal owners and conservation efforts worldwide, ensuring that advanced, species-specific veterinary expertise is not confined to one region. For individuals living in these countries or considering relocating with specialized pets, knowing that ABVP-certified professionals are available can provide immense peace of mind. This international alignment with the best practitioners in the field demonstrates the universal value placed on dedication, adherence to high standards of practice, and continuing education in veterinary medicine. The ABVP's commitment to recognizing and advancing excellence truly spans the globe.

Multiple Specialty Certifications

An interesting aspect of ABVP certification is the ability for some veterinarians to achieve certification in multiple recognized veterinary specialties. This indicates an extraordinary level of dedication and a broad range of expertise. The data shows that 28 Diplomates are certified in two recognized veterinary specialties, meaning they have undergone the rigorous credentials and examination process for two distinct categories of animals or practice areas. Even more impressively, one Diplomate is certified in three recognized veterinary specialties, and another individual holds certification in four recognized veterinary specialties. These multiple certifications highlight a profound commitment to mastering diverse areas of veterinary medicine, allowing these practitioners to offer comprehensive care across a wider spectrum of animal species or clinical challenges. Such individuals represent the pinnacle of specialized veterinary knowledge and skill, capable of addressing complex cases that might span different animal groups or require an integrated approach to care. This level of dedication sets these individuals apart, truly aligning them with the best practitioners in the field.

Are There Other Organizations for Exotic Animal Care?

Yes, beyond the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP), there are other significant organizations dedicated to specialized exotic animal care, particularly for specific groups like reptiles and amphibians. One prominent example is the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV). This organization serves as a global community of veterinary professionals whose primary focus is on improving the quality of medicine, conservation, and captive care of reptiles and amphibians. ARAV members are deeply committed to the medical treatment, surgery, and captive care of the growing reptile and amphibian pet population.

Moreover, ARAV extends its efforts to supporting captive collections and the conservation of their wild counterparts, highlighting a holistic approach to the well-being of these unique animals. The association actively organizes and promotes events, conferences, and webinars to foster education and collaboration among its members. For instance, they have upcoming events like Exotic 365 scheduled in Philadelphia, PA, USA, in August 2026, and ICARE 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal, in April 2026, along with the Exotic Vet Support Asia-Pacific Conference 2026 in Brisbane, Australia, in March 2026. These events underscore ARAV's role in advancing knowledge and best practices in reptile and amphibian veterinary medicine on an international scale.

The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV)

The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) stands out as a crucial resource for anyone involved with these specific exotic animal groups. ARAV is a global community, emphasizing its international reach and collaborative spirit among veterinary professionals. Their core mission revolves around enhancing the quality of medical care, promoting conservation efforts, and improving the captive care environments for both reptiles and amphibians Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians. This focus is particularly important given the unique physiological and environmental needs of these animals, which often differ significantly from those of more common pets. ARAV members are dedicated to addressing the medical and surgical challenges presented by reptile and amphibian patients, contributing to better outcomes for pets, zoo animals, and wild populations alike. The organization provides a platform for veterinarians to share knowledge, research, and clinical experiences, which is vital for a field that requires highly specialized expertise.

Focusing on Conservation and Captive Care

ARAV's commitment goes beyond individual animal treatment, extending significantly into conservation and captive care. Members are actively involved in improving the living conditions and management practices for reptiles and amphibians in captivity, ensuring that these animals thrive under human care. This includes developing and disseminating species-specific care sheets, which provide essential information on husbandry, nutrition, and environmental enrichment to prevent illness and promote well-being. Furthermore, ARAV plays a vital role in the conservation of wild reptile and amphibian populations. Many species are endangered, and the expertise of veterinary professionals is critical in rehabilitation efforts, disease monitoring in wild populations, and contributing to breeding programs. By bridging the gap between clinical medicine and conservation biology, ARAV emphasizes a comprehensive approach to the health and survival of these often-misunderstood creatures. Their work highlights the interconnectedness of individual animal health with broader ecological concerns.

Educational Opportunities and Global Reach

ARAV provides numerous educational opportunities for its members and the wider veterinary community, ensuring that knowledge and best practices are continually shared and updated. These include regular conferences, webinars, and other events that bring together experts from around the world. Upcoming events like "Exotic 365" in Philadelphia, PA, USA on August 31, 2026, and "ICARE 2026" in Lisbon, Portugal on April 11, 2026, are examples of their dedication to fostering continuous learning. The "Exotic Vet Support Asia-Pacific Conference 2026" in Brisbane, Australia, on March 27, 2026, further illustrates their global reach, providing platforms for veterinarians across different continents to connect and collaborate. These gatherings are crucial for discussing new research, sharing clinical techniques, and addressing emerging challenges in reptile and amphibian medicine. By offering these educational resources, ARAV strengthens the skills of its members and contributes to a higher standard of care for reptiles and amphibians globally, reinforcing their mission where conservation, medicine, and education converge.

What Does Species-Specialized Care Mean?

Species-specialized care means that a veterinarian has developed deep expertise in the unique medical needs, behaviors, and environmental requirements of a particular group of animals. This level of focus goes beyond general veterinary practice, allowing practitioners to offer more precise and effective treatments. The American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) currently certifies veterinarians in twelve separate specialties, each focusing on a distinct species category or practice type. This specialization ensures that veterinarians have a thorough understanding of the physiological differences, common diseases, and specific challenges associated with their chosen animal group.

Among these specialties, the Canine and Feline Practice specialty is the most popular, with a majority of ABVP Diplomates working in private practices dedicated to dogs and cats. These specialists excel in various aspects of care, including medical and surgical interventions, preventive wellness strategies, and behavior management. They are equipped to handle diverse and complex cases at a high level, often managing them in-house while consulting other specialists as needed, rather than always referring cases out. However, the nature of specialized practice means that veterinarians in restricted settings, such as wellness-only clinics, spay/neuter facilities, shelters, mobile services, or emergency/critical care, might not gain the broad caseload required to successfully credential for ABVP certification, as their practice may not cover the full spectrum of a species' needs.

The Scope of ABVP Specialties

The ABVP recognizes and certifies veterinarians in twelve distinct specialties, demonstrating the wide range of expertise required in modern veterinary medicine. While the specific list of all twelve is not detailed in the provided research, the existence of so many categories underscores the ABVP's commitment to comprehensive specialization. Each specialty represents a unique body of knowledge and a specific set of skills tailored to the needs of particular animal groups. This ensures that a veterinarian certified in, for example, Avian Practice or Exotic Companion Mammal Practice, possesses an in-depth understanding of those animals' specific health concerns, nutritional requirements, and behavioral patterns. This specialization is crucial for providing the highest standard of care, especially for animals with complex needs or those that are less commonly seen in general practice. The ABVP's framework for these specialties allows veterinarians to focus their advanced training, leading to a higher level of expertise for the animals they treat.

The Canine and Feline Practice Example

The Canine and Feline Practice specialty serves as a prime example of what species-specialized care entails, and it is the most popular among ABVP certifications. Diplomates in this area are highly skilled professionals who excel in medical and surgical care for dogs and cats. Their expertise extends to preventive wellness, ensuring pets remain healthy throughout their lives, and behavior management, addressing issues that can impact the human-animal bond. These veterinarians are often found in advanced private practices equipped with cutting-edge tools, supplies, and procedures, allowing them to handle a wide array of complex cases. Many also contribute to academia, serving as educators or clinicians at veterinary schools, while others work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, nutrition, or biologics. This broad engagement demonstrates the depth of knowledge and versatility expected of ABVP specialists, even within the most common pet species ABVP Board Certification. Their ability to manage diverse and intricate health problems in-house, consulting with other specialists when appropriate, highlights their superior clinical capabilities.

Why Breadth of Caseload Matters for Certification

The breadth of caseload is a critical factor for veterinarians seeking ABVP certification. The certification process, particularly for the Private Practitioner Route, requires candidates to demonstrate expertise across a wide spectrum of clinical cases relevant to their chosen species. This means that veterinarians working in restricted settings may face challenges in meeting the credentialing requirements. For example, professionals primarily in wellness-only clinics, spay/neuter facilities, shelters, mobile services, or emergency/critical care may not encounter the diverse and complex cases necessary to showcase the comprehensive knowledge and skills expected of an ABVP Diplomate. These settings, while vital to animal welfare, often focus on a narrower range of medical interventions or patient conditions. To achieve ABVP certification, a veterinarian must prove their ability to manage a broad array of medical and surgical issues, from routine care to highly intricate diseases, across the entire lifespan of their designated species. This requirement ensures that ABVP-certified veterinarians possess a holistic and robust understanding of their specialty, capable of providing total patient care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does DABVP stand for?

DABVP stands for Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. This title is earned by veterinarians who have achieved board certification through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, demonstrating exceptional knowledge, skill, and competency in the care of the total patient. The ABVP was founded in 1978 and is an AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty organization.

How often do ABVP Diplomates need to recertify?

ABVP Diplomates need to recertify every ten years. This recertification process ensures that these specialists maintain continued excellence by demonstrating ongoing professional development and continued competency in their designated specialty. The ABVP itself undergoes a comprehensive evaluation every three years by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) to uphold its standards.

Does ABVP only certify veterinarians in the United States?

No, the ABVP certifies veterinarians not only in the United States but also internationally. While ABVP Diplomates are found in 49 of the 50 US states, they also practice in 16 foreign countries. This global presence ensures that advanced, species-specialized veterinary care is available in many parts of the world.

What is the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV)?

The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) is a global community of veterinary professionals dedicated to improving the quality of medicine, conservation, and captive care of reptiles and amphibians. ARAV members focus on the medical treatment, surgery, and captive care of these animals, and the organization hosts international events like ICARE 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal.

Can a veterinarian be certified in more than one specialty?

Yes, a veterinarian can be certified in more than one specialty through the ABVP. In fact, the research indicates that 28 Diplomates are certified in two recognized veterinary specialties, one Diplomate is certified in three specialties, and one exceptional individual is certified in four recognized veterinary specialties. This demonstrates a deep commitment to mastering multiple areas of veterinary medicine.