An avian veterinarian is a veterinarian who specializes in treating birds. Birds are very different in anatomy and physiology to dogs and cats, so avian veterinary students must seek out coursework and residencies that are beyond the scope of a standard veterinary school.
Avian veterinarians can become members of the Association of Avian Veterinarians for additional education opportunities including a journal and an annual conference. An avian veterinarian can pursue additional testing through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners and become an "ABVP diplomat in avian medicine."
Avian veterianarians, like any other veterinarians, attend veterinary school at any of the certified Veterinary colleges. After they obtain their DVM they go on to specialize in the care of birds. This specialization takes from 1 to 4 years