How to Become a Veterinary Eye Specialist in Albuquerque

To practice veterinary ophthalmology in New Mexico, you must first become a board certified veterinarian. If you attended veterinary school in another state, but intend to practice in New Mexico, you must also pass the New Mexico board exam. To become a veterinary ophthalmologist, the remainder of your education will consist of practical experience, including an internship and a residency. After passing a lengthy final exam, you will have earned the title Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Things You'll Need

• Funding

Instructions

1. Contact the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) to apply to the program.

2. Find a board certified veterinarian in Albuquerque who is willing to supervise your one-year internship in small animal medicine and surgery. Complete your internship.

3. Contact ACVO to request a current list of the faculty ophthalmologists in closest proximity to Albuquerque for the purpose of arranging your three-year residency program. The AVCO Web site posts also ads for available residencies.

4. Complete your three-year residency.

5. Assemble your credentials package. This will contain your transcripts, publications, case reports and resume. Submit the package to the ACVO examination committee.

6. Complete the four-day board exam, which will include written, practical and surgical portions. Upon passing, you will be a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Resources

• Contact the New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association for the location of the nearest colleges and universities offering veterinary ophthalmology residency programs.
• Visit the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists website for additional information about residency opportunities.
• Visit the American Veterinary Medical Association’s website for information concerning the practice of veterinary medicine in the United States, continuing education, jobs, news and more.