Veterinary FAQs

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What is a Board Certified Surgeon?

Simply put, the term “ACVS Diplomate” refers to a veterinarian who has been board certified (received a diploma) in veterinary surgery. Only after completed the certification requirements of the ACVS are Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and have earned the right to be called specialists in veterinary surgery.

Veterinarians wishing to become board certified must complete a three-year residency program, meet specific training and caseload requirements, and perform research and have their research published. This process is supervised by current ACVS Diplomates, ensuring consistency in training and adherence to high standards. Once the residency has been completed, the resident must sit for and pass a rigorous examination. Only then does the veterinarian earn the title of ACVS Diplomate.

What Questions Should I ask My Veterinarian?

  • How often has the veterinarian performed this type of surgery?
  • Does the surgery require special equipment? Is it available?
  • Does my pet’s surgery require a specialist?
  • What should I expect the outcome of the surgery to be?
  • What follow-up care is necessary?

What is a Board Certified Internist?

These specialists have dedicated 3 to 6 years of their professional career to advanced training in veterinary medicine. Only veterinarians who have successfully completed ACVIM’s rigorous training and testing requirements are certified as Diplomates, and have earned the right to be called Board-certified specialists in veterinary internal medicine.

“The amount of training an ACVIM Board-certified specialist is required to have goes far beyond the technical aspects of veterinary care,” said Bruce Madewell, DVM, incoming ACVIM Board Chair. “Our training includes an extensive amount of time dedicated to all aspects of cardiology, neurology, oncology and internal medicine. This breadth of training helps ensure that we provide an optimum level of care for all our patients.”

Why are veterinary specialists needed?

There are several reasons for the increase in veterinary specialists. The first parallels what has been seen in human medicine — rapid advances in the medical profession make it difficult for general veterinary practitioners to remain current with advances in technology and techniques. If general veterinarians are faced with a medical situation outside their area of expertise, they now have the option of referring their client to a specialist. Second, more Americans accept their pets as part of their families. Therefore, they are demanding similar health care for their pets as received by humans. According to a recent survey conducted by the American Animal Hospital Association of pet owners in the United States and Canada, a majority responded that they would take extra measures to ensure their pets’ well being. Moreover, pet owners have become more educated about veterinary care options available for their pets, and are demanding the best treatment available and the most qualified person to perform that treatment for their pets. According to a recent survey by the Companion Animal and Family Health Council, 73 percent of veterinarians said their clients seek more referrals to veterinary specialists today than they did 5 years ago.

Do I need an appointment to see a specialists?

While an appointment is not necessary, a referral is. A Referral from your regular veterinarian helps us communicate with them to provide the best care for your pet. Appointments do help to alleviate some wait time and help make for a more efficient visit.

To download the referral form needed for your appointment click here.

HOWEVER if you have a pet emergency we will waive the referral and treat your pet as needed and contact your regular veterinarian after treatment. Walk in appointments will be seen based on medical emergency first, then will be fit in around scheduled appointments.

Does MVS offer vaccines and routine care?

MVS does not offer routine veterinary care. Once the initial problem is treated and resolved, you should contact your veterinarian to schedule further follow-up appointments. Maintaining scheduled vaccines and routine health care is vital for your pet’s continued well being.

The Miami Veterinary Specialists will maintain an open communication with your primary care veterinarian, updating your pet’s diagnosis and progress of treatment.

How does MVS differ from your regular veterinarian?

A board-certified specialist has expertise and training in the management of complex and unusual problems, and can perform procedures needed to treat your pet’s problems. To be awarded Diplomacy in their respective specialties, veterinarians must successfully complete the certification and testing requirements of the various specialty boards.

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