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The University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a neurology specialist or board-certified neurologist?

A: Specialists in veterinary neurology are certified by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) parent organization. A board-certified veterinary neurologist (sometimes also known as a diplomate) is considered to be an expert in medical neurology. There are just over 100 such specialists in North America. Some veterinary neurologists also have specialized training in neurosurgery.

Q: What are the training requirements?

A: Neurology specialists have to meet strict training requirements. In order to be become a neurology specialist, a veterinarian must:

  • Complete a 1-year internship or equivalent training. 
  • Complete a residency-training program (two or three years, depending on the institution).
  • Fulfill the prescribed credential requirements.
  • Pass both the general internal medicine examination and the neurology certifying examination.

Q: What is the ACVIM?

A: The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) was established in 1972. This organization is the recognized specialty college responsible for establishing training requirements, evaluating and accrediting training programs, and examining and certifying veterinarians in the veterinary specialties of internal medicine, cardiology, neurology and oncology.

The overall purpose of the neurology specialty group of the ACVIM is to advance knowledge of neurological diseases and to foster the continued development of specialty care in veterinary neurology. To achieve the purposes of the neurology specialty group, the ACVIM parent organization will certify new neurology diplomates by guiding the training programs, and ensuring fair and appropriate credential and examination procedures.

Q: How can I find an ACVIM specialist near me?

To find an ACVIM specialist near you, visit the organization's Web site: http://www.acvim.org/Specialist/Search.aspx

Funds for Neurology Research and Treatment

Give a gift online to The Small Animal Medicine Fund at the Arch Foundation for the University of Georgia. When you go through the checkout process, be sure to indicate that you wish for the funds to support neurology research in the "special instructions" box.

This page was last updated January 8, 2008.