What is a veterinary behavior specialist?
A veterinary behavior specialist is a veterinarian that has been certified by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB). The veterinarian then is referred to as a diplomate of ACVB. There currently are only 42 ACVB diplomates in North America. The training and qualifications of a veterinary behaviorist are similar to those of a human psychiatrist. To obtain diplomate status, a veterinarian must complete a 2-3 year demanding residency training program under the supervision of other qualified specialists. This program involves classroom education in subjects such as ethology (the study of normal animal behavior), pharmacology, neurology, internal medicine, neuroscience, and psychology. During this training program, the veterinarian is also responsible for evaluating and treating behavior problems in all domestic species and various exotic species as well. Upon completion of the residency program, the veterinarian must pass a rigorous 16-hour examination.
