Veterinarians must meet stringent requirements relating to qualifications, experience, and training to be registered as specialists. Under both Australian legislation, only registered specialists may claim specialist status.
To have a specialist title a veterinarian will have to have:
Graduated from a five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree
Practiced for four years as a veterinarian in general practice
Completed a three to four-year residency program in their area of specialisation
Passed examinations to achieve fellowship with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS)
Veterinary specialists must also be registered as specialists with the veterinary board in the jurisdiction in which they practice.
For more information about Specialist qualifications, visit the ANZCVS website.