Is becoming a veterinary acupuncturist right for me?
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How to become a Veterinary Acupuncturist
Becoming a veterinary acupuncturist requires both veterinary training and specialized education in acupuncture. The general steps include:
- Earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree: Since only licensed veterinarians can practice veterinary acupuncture, the first step is completing veterinary school and becoming a qualified veterinarian.
- Obtain Licensure: After earning a DVM, candidates must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) or the equivalent exam required in their country to legally practice veterinary medicine.
- Complete Specialized Training in Acupuncture: Veterinarians interested in acupuncture must take additional coursework and hands-on training through accredited programs such as the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) or the Chi Institute. These programs teach acupuncture theory, point location, safety, and clinical application.
- Gain Certification (Optional but Recommended): Many veterinary acupuncturists choose to earn certification from organizations like IVAS or the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA). Certification demonstrates expertise and can help build trust with clients.
- Continue Education: Because both veterinary medicine and acupuncture are always evolving, veterinary acupuncturists regularly participate in continuing education to stay updated on new research, techniques, and best practices.
International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) Certification
The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) is one of the most widely recognized organizations for veterinary acupuncture training. To become certified, veterinarians must complete an IVAS-approved course that includes both classroom lessons and supervised hands-on practice. After training, they take written and practical exams to show they can safely and effectively perform acupuncture on animals. Certification through IVAS is respected worldwide and requires veterinarians to keep up with continuing education to stay certified.
Chi University Veterinary Acupuncture Certification Program
Chi University (formerly Chi Institute) also offers a well-known certification program that focuses on Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). The program teaches acupuncture along with related practices like food therapy and herbal medicine, but certification specifically covers acupuncture. Veterinarians complete lectures, labs, and clinical practice, then must pass exams to become certified. Like IVAS, Chi University encourages continuing education so that veterinarians stay up to date with the latest knowledge and skills in acupuncture.