How to Become an Avian Vet (Hear from the Avian Vet Itself)
Last Updated on March 16, 2023 by Ali Shahid
An avian vet specializes in treating birds with medical care. Because birds are anatomically and physiologically different from mammals and reptiles, this requires specialized knowledge and expertise. In this article, we will explain how to become an avian vet.
5 Steps to Become an Avian Vet
The training process to become an avian veterinarian typically takes several years. The certification process is a combination of college training in veterinary medicine, postgrad training, and certification by an accredited school or organization. The specific requirements for becoming an avian veterinarian vary from state to state.
- Aspiring avian veterinarians must possess a veterinary degree. The degree is a bachelor’s degree, but it is referred to as a doctor of veterinary medicine in the United States. It is known as a bachelor of veterinary science degree in some parts of the world, including the United Kingdom.
- However, the degree may also be referred to as a bachelor of veterinary medicine and surgery, depending on the school awarding the degree. American Veterinary Medical Association is the accrediting body for veterinary schools in the United States.
- After graduation, veterinarians must pass a certification exam in order to become licensed. It is known as the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam in the United States, which is administered by the American Veterinary Medical Association. In addition, he or she must pass any licensing examinations required by the jurisdiction in which he or she practices.
- Choose a university offering a veterinary medicine doctorate program that allows you to specialize in exotic bird medicine.
- The candidate must complete an internship and residency program in avian and exotic pet medicine at a facility or a private practice that treats exotic birds. The prospective specialist is also required to publish research in relevant journals during this period. Following the completion of these requirements, the candidate will take an extensive certification exam for that specialty in order to demonstrate his or her proficiency.
- Join an avian veterinary organization, such as the Association of Avian Veterinarians, to network with other veterinarians. Your peers may be able to assist you in finding employment in which you can enhance your skills.
How long does It Take to Become an avian Vet?
It is not an easy task to become a specialist bird veterinarian, as it requires many years of training. Typically, avian specialists study for two to five years after completing their graduate degree before taking the specialist exam.
