Cardiology is the clinical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of heart and the vascular system. The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Specialty of Cardiology (ACVIM Cardiology) governs this specialty of veterinary medicine, and is responsible for establishing training requirements, evaluating and accrediting training programs, and examining and certifying veterinary cardiologists.
Board-certified veterinary cardiologists have the designation, Diplomate ACVIM (Cardiology). In order to gain board certification in cardiology, a licensed veterinarian must first complete a minimum of 3 years of accredited advanced training after graduation from veterinary school, and pass a series of rigorous examinations administered by the ACVIM. As part of their training program, board certified veterinary cardiologists receive specific and extensive training in a variety of diagnostic imaging techniques (including echocardiography and angiography), as well as interventional and medical treatments for heart and vascular diseases. The LSU Cardiology Service has 2 board certified veterinary cardiologists on staff and a cardiology resident.
