ABVS approves full recognition for shelter medicine practice

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The American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) has approved a petition for full recognition of shelter medicine as a veterinary specialty. A part of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP), the Shelter Medicine Practice (SMP) specialty includes all aspects of veterinary practice important to the care and management of shelter animals. Its mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of both animals and humans through education, discovery, and the promotion of clinical excellence.

“This milestone caps the diligent efforts of so many, who have worked tirelessly over the years to establish, strengthen, and grow shelter medicine as a specialty,” said Stephanie Janeczko, DVM, MS, DABVP, CAWA, regent for SMP and vice president of shelter services for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), in an organizational release. “This was possible because of the efforts of our organizing committee, our ABVP SMP diplomates, ABVP’s leadership, and all our colleagues.”

Shelter medicine has expanded significantly in the past decade. To control infectious disease and promote health and wellness in shelter medicine, specialists must have a broadened understanding of things like epidemiology, infectious disease and preventative medicine and veterinary forensics.

“Animal shelters and rescues have become more prominent, and the number of animals in need of care has grown” said Tom Van Winkle, executive director of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians, in the release. “As the demands of shelter medicine continue to evolve, this recognition will make it possible for specialists to go beyond a conventional veterinary education and improve the health and welfare of shelter animals.”

Reference

Shelter medicine practice is now fully recognized by ABVS. News release. March 27, 2023. Accessed March 27, 2023. [email]