Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon vs. General DVM: Understanding the Difference

When a beloved pet needs surgery, choosing the right veterinary professional can feel overwhelming. Many pet owners do not realize there is a key distinction between a general veterinarian (DVM) who performs surgery and a board-certified veterinary surgeon. Both play vital roles in animal care—but their training, experience, and specialties are quite different.

 

What Is a DVM?

A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) is a licensed veterinarian who has completed veterinary school and passed the necessary board exams to practice general medicine and general surgery. Most veterinarians are DVMs, and they provide a wide range of services, from vaccinations to basic surgical procedures such as spays, neuters, and mass removals.

While DVMs are trained in surgical techniques, their exposure to surgery during veterinary school is limited. Some DVMs choose to focus more on surgery in their practices and may develop considerable skill over time. However, they are not surgical specialists unless they undergo additional, intensive training and certification.

 

What Is a Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon?

A board-certified veterinary surgeon is a DVM who has gone through several more years of advanced education and training, specifically in surgery. This path includes:

• A 1-year internship (typically focused on medicine or surgery)
• A 3-year surgical residency under the supervision of experienced specialists
• Completion of a rigorous case log and publication requirement
• Passing a series of extensive board examinations administered by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS)

Once certified, these professionals hold the title Diplomate of the ACVS and are considered experts in their field. Certified surgeons typically specialize in either small animal surgery (dogs, cats, and companion animals) or large animal surgery (such as horses, livestock, or zoo animals). You can recognize a board-certified surgeon by looking for credentials like “DACVS” (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons) after their name.

These professionals typically work in specialty or referral practices and collaborate closely with general practice veterinarians to provide advanced care. If you are ever unsure, do not hesitate to ask—most clinics are proud to highlight their specialists’ credentials and areas of expertise.

 

Types of Surgery Performed

Board-certified veterinary surgeons and DVMs may perform many of the same types of procedures, but the complexity and risk level of the cases often determine who is better suited for the job.

Within the field of veterinary surgery, board-certified surgeons often focus on specialized areas such as:

1. Orthopedic Surgery

Focused on the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Examples include:

• Cranial Cruciate ligament repair (ACL) * T.P.L.O,
• Medial Patellar Luxation (M.P.L)
• Fracture repair

2. Soft Tissue Surgery

Involves internal organs and other non-bony tissues. Examples include:

• Tumor removals
• Gastrointestinal surgeries
• Reconstructive surgery
  • Skin
  • Wounds
  • Airway (B.O.A.S)

Although many general DVMs can perform routine surgeries, board-certified surgeons are typically recommended for more complex or high-risk procedures, where advanced equipment, expertise, and post-operative care are crucial.

 

Why It Matters Where You Go

In the Chattanooga, TN area, Animal Emergency and Specialty Center is one of only two hospitals that offer the expertise of a board-certified veterinary surgeon along with a dedicated Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for overnight post-surgical monitoring and care. This level of support can make a critical difference in your pet’s recovery, especially after advanced or high-risk procedures.

 

Which One Is Right for Your Pet?

The decision depends on your pet’s needs. For routine procedures, a skilled DVM may be perfectly qualified. However, if your pet requires specialized or high-risk surgery, your veterinarian may refer you to a board-certified surgeon.

Board-certified surgeons bring an added layer of experience and precision, especially when:

• A previous surgery has failed
• The condition is rare or complex
• Advanced surgical tools or techniques are needed

Specialized anesthesia or recovery is required.

 

In Summary

 

When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian. They can assess the situation and help you determine whether a specialist is the right choice for your pet’s care.

 

Looking for a board-certified veterinary surgeon in Chattanooga, TN?

Animal Emergency and Specialty Center Chattanooga proudly provides advanced pet surgical care—including orthopedic procedures like TPLO and soft tissue surgeries—with 24/7 support. Contact our team for compassionate, expert care near you.