For years human medicine has been divided into numerous subspecialities that handle pediatrics to podiatry and anything between. The American Board of Medical Specialties was established in 1933 to provide comprehensive training to physicians in specific areas of medicine.

In the field of veterinary medicine, small animal specialists are quite common and provide a much-needed avenue for secondary and tertiary care of our pets. Equine specialty practice has grown substantially over the years and can provide a similar level of expanded care to horses in all arenas. Currently, under the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) American Board of Veterinary Specialists, 46 distinct veterinary specialties exist, and among those are at least six equine- or large-animal-specific groups.

Accredited veterinary schools provide an excellent general education to all veterinary students, including those who want to pursue equine practice. After graduation there is an option to seek further training in specific areas on veterinary practice, including internal medicine, surgery, ophthalmology, dermatology, sports medicine/rehabilitation, and theriogenology (reproduction)