A veterinarian who has been awarded this specialty status by the ACVIM will list the initials, 'DACVIM (Cardiology),' after his or her DVM degree. Or, the veterinarian may indicate that he or she is a 'Diplomate' of the ACVIM (cardiology). The word 'Diplomate' typically means the specialist has achieved the following:
• Obtained a traditional veterinary degree (three to four years of college plus four years of veterinary school).
• Complete a one year internship and an additional two to three years of advanced training, including a residency at an approved program where the doctor will have trained with some of the best experts in the field and obtained hands on experience. As part of their training program, veterinary cardiologists receive extensive training in a variety of diagnostic imaging techniques, including veterinary echocardiography and angiography.
Following this training, the aspiring veterinary cardiologist must pass a series of examinations covering all aspects of general internal medicine and veterinary cardiology.
After completing and passing all of these rigorous requirements, the veterinarian is then recognized by peers as a board certified specialist in veterinary cardiology, and will list the credentials, 'DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology),' after his or her name. When your pet needs the care of a veterinary cardiologist, years of intensive training and additional education will be focused on helping him or her to recover from his or her problem or enjoy the highest quality of life possible