Avian Veterinarian

Avian Veterinarians work primarily with either ornamental (pet) birds or poultry. A certified avian veterinarian is one who has obtained certification from the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) to practice exclusively on the species of birds. Diagnosis, treatment, control, and prevention of diseases are major concerns for avian veterinarians. A pet bird practice can involve large aviaries, but most pet bird work is performed for individuals who own one bird or a small collection of ornamental birds.

Poultry practice is concerned primarily with large commercial flocks and involves interactions with poultry nutritionists, geneticists, medicinal suppliers, researchers, flock owners, caretakers and processors so that optimum efficiency in the production of meat and eggs is achieved. Avian Veterinarians also are involved in research and product development, teaching, wildlife health, zoo medicine, sales and other fields.