APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

Module Names and Descriptions

Module 1: Overview of the NVAP

This module provides a review of the basic components of the National Veterinary Accreditation 

Program (NVAP). A brief history of the program, the importance and benefits of being an 

accredited veterinarian, and the duties and responsibilities of accredited veterinarians are 

reviewed. In addition, information on Category I and Category II accreditation and program 

certification opportunities is presented. 

Module 2: Role of Agencies (State, Federal, International) and Health

Certificates

This module reviews the State, Federal, and international agencies an accredited veterinarian

may interact with and the services these agencies provide. Instructions for accurate completion 

of health certificates for animals traveling domestically or internationally are reviewed. Written 

guidelines for the completion of several USDA APHIS and VS Forms are provided.

Module 3: Overview of Foreign Animal, USDA Program, and Reportable

Diseases

This module provides a review of a variety of foreign animal diseases, reportable diseases, and 

USDA program diseases. A list of several diseases applicable to Category I and Category II 

accredited veterinarians is included. The importance of early reporting of suspicion of these 

diseases and steps in a disease investigation are emphasized. The module also provides details

about additional training opportunities and resources to stay informed about these types of 

diseases.

Module 4: Preventing Disease Introduction and Spread

This module describes key practices to prevent and minimize disease exposure to animals and 

humans. Information includes review of types of personal protective equipment (PPE) and 

levels of use, cleaning and disinfection protocols, and types of disinfectants. Instructions on 

reading and interpreting disinfectant labels are included. Selection and implementation of best

biosecurity practices in various animal settings is presented. 

Module 5: Vesicular Diseases

This module reviews vesicular diseases of importance to the agricultural industries in the 

United States. Diseases reviewed include foot-and-mouth disease, vesicular stomatitis, swine 

vesicular disease, vesicular exanthema of swine, and Senecavirus A. Clinical signs associated 

with vesicular diseases and specific biosecurity measures are discussed. An interactive scenario, 

emphasizing reporting suspicion of disease and following the chain of events that occur in a 

foreign animal disease investigation, is presented. 
APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

Module 6: Exotic Avian Diseases

This module reviews the impacts of an outbreak of two significant avian diseases in the United 

States – avian influenza and Newcastle disease. Clinicalsigns associated with both the less 

virulent and high pathogenicity forms of avian influenza (AI and HPAI) and Newcastle Disease 

(ND and END) are reviewed. Basic biosecurity measures specific to avian diseases are 

described. An interactive scenario following the potential introduction of a significant avian 

disease into the U.S. through the pet bird industry is presented.

Module 7: RETIRED.

Module 8: International Movement of Horses

This module describes the economic importance of the U.S. equine industry and the impact of 

international travel of horses on global spread of equine diseases. The process for proper

completion of health certificatesfor movement, both temporary and permanent, is illustrated 

through an interactive scenario following the export of a horse to an international destination. 

Emphasisis placed on the role and responsibilities of the accredited veterinarian, isolation

procedures, required laboratory tests, and accurate completion of an international health 

certificate.

Module 9: Interstate and International Health Certificates for Category I 

Animals

This module emphasizes the importance of health certificates to document pet travel. The 

significance of proper and accurate completion of these documents is underscored, given the

potential forspread of disease associated with pet travel. The process and regulatory resources for 

properly completing a companion animal health certificate are presented through interactive

animations and a case scenario. Mistakes commonly made when completing health certificates are

highlighted and steps to minimize these errors are provided.

Module 10: Personal Protective Equipment for Veterinarians

This module reviews the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), from basic items 

such as gloves and coveralls, to items providing increased levels of protection such as 

respirators and chemical resistant outerwear. Differences between varying levels of PPE are 

explained. The process for performing a risk assessment and the selection of appropriate PPE is 

practiced using scenarios that might be encountered during daily veterinary practice activities. 

PPE used during an animal health emergency response is reviewed. 

Module 11: Sheep and Goats: Disease Awareness and Health Certificates

This module provides an overview of the sheep and goat industries. Eight diseases of impact to 

these industries and that are of significant importance for animals moving in interstate or 

international commerce are reviewed. The National Scrapie Eradication Program and the 

Scrapie Flock Certification Program are reviewed, highlighting the genetic components and 
APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

identification requirements. Examples of properly completed health certificates for sheep and 

goats are provided to help veterinarians avoid common errors leading to delays or refusal of 

entry for their client’s animals.

Module 12: Animal Disease Traceability

This module reviews the components of the Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) program, 

including the Animal Disease Traceability regulation (9CFR part 86), official identification 

devices and methods used for different livestock species, and required documentation for 

interstate movement of livestock. The responsibilities of accredited veterinarians with respect 

to animal disease traceability are reviewed. A scenario involving cattle movement is presented

to illustrate and emphasize the importance of accurate documentation of individual animal 

identification and interstate movement of livestock necessary for effective traceability of livestock.

Module 13: Aquatic Animal Health Regulations and Health Certification

This module provides information about the various agencies involved in regulating aquatic 

animal health and trade, with an emphasis on USDA and the role of accredited veterinarians. 

Resources for obtaining current health regulations for the interstate movement and 

international export of aquatic animals is provided. Proper completion of health certificates for 

farmed aquatic animals is reviewed.

Module 14: Evaluation of Aquatic Animals for Detection of Reportable

Diseases and Pathogens

This module focuses on identification, detection, and reporting of aquatic animal diseases. 

Procedures for conducting veterinary inspections of aquatic animals and recognition of 

common signs of illness and disease in aquatic animal species are described. Collection of

appropriate samples for diagnostic testing, including proper sample packaging and shipping 

procedures, are reviewed. The terms surveillance, monitoring, zoning, and 

compartmentalization are defined as they relate to aquatic animal regulatory programs. 

Module 15: Disease Prevention and Biosecurity in Aquaculture

This module reviews the important role of accredited veterinarians in safeguarding aquatic 

animal health. Topics reviewed focus on biosecurity practices specific to aquaculture facilities, 

disease prevention strategies specific to aquatic animal health, and disease control and 

eradication contingencies germane to the aquaculture industry. Valuable information is 

provided to assist accredited veterinarians and producers with risk evaluation and biosecurity 

assessments to develop and implement site-specific biosecurity plans.

Module 16: RETIRED.

Module 17: RETIRED.
APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

Module 18: Avian Influenza (AI) and Newcastle Disease (ND)

This module provides an understanding of the economic and public health impacts of an exotic avian 

disease outbreak. Clinicalsigns associated with avian influenza (AI) and Newcastle disease (ND) 

and modes of transmission are reviewed. Details on collecting and submitting samplesfor

surveillance, as well as procedures for reporting positive resultsfor AI or ND, are addressed.

Disease investigation and eradication activities, including implementation of appropriate on-farm

biosecurity measuresspecific for each disease are reviewed. 

Module 19: Animal Health Emergency Response

This module provides information to assist you in being an effective asset once your boots hit 

the ground during an animal health emergency response. Various opportunities and roles for 

accredited veterinarians are identified and described. An understanding of the basics of the 

incident command system (ICS) and emergency response plans, including response organization 

operations and integration, are reviewed. Potential health and safety issues that may arise 

during an animal health emergency response discussed. Pre-deployment training needs are 

identified.

Module 20: Slaughter Horse Transport

This module addresses the physical and physiological stresses endured by horses during 

transport. The physical exam and assessments that determine a horse’s fitness to travel are 

reviewed. Conditions that make a horse unfit to travel to slaughter are highlighted. Resources 

are identified to assist in locating current health and welfare regulations for the interstate 

movement and international export of horses. Finally, various recommendations that can be 

shared with owners and shippers to ensure their horses arrive at their destination humanely 

and within the legal regulatory framework are provided. 

Module 21: Animals’ Fitness to Travel

This module reviews the role of the accredited veterinarian when evaluating the fitness of 

livestock for movement and includes descriptions of specific elements of the inspection or 

examination when determining if the animal is fit to travel. Steps to make transportation 

comfortable and safe for livestock are explained, including appropriate actions to take with 

animals unfit for transport. Suggestions to support the well-being of animals during transport are 

discussed.

Module 22: Animal Welfare: An Introduction

This module explains the importance of including animal welfare considerations as part of an 

accredited veterinarian’s regulatory activities. The concept of animal welfare is defined and the 

process of assessing and evaluating an animal’s welfare status is reviewed. Opportunities and 

challenges related to animal welfare are discussed. 
APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

Module 23: Antibiotic Use in Animals

This module reviews the terms and concepts necessary for veterinarians to make informed 

decisions regarding proper selection and judicious use of antibiotics in animals. The various 

benefits and limitations of antibiotic susceptibility testing and how to correctly interpret a drug 

label are presented. A review of the many agencies involved in regulating the use of antibiotics 

and antibiotic resistance and drug residue monitoring is provided. Key components of the Animal 

Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act (AMDUCA) and extra-label use of drugs are reviewed. Various 

resources to assist in making informed decisionsregarding antibiotic use in animals are included.

Module 24: Collecting and Shipping Swine Diagnostic Samples

This module provides a detailed review of swine diagnostic sample collection techniques and 

the steps for properly labeling, packaging, and shipping diagnostic samples. It also emphasizes 

occasions when collecting samples is not appropriate, as in the case of suspected foreign animal 

diseases. Lastly, this module addresses regulations related to shipping samples to veterinary 

diagnostic laboratories.

Module 25: Using Behavior to Assess Welfare

This module explains how veterinarians can assess the health and welfare of animals by 

observing their behavior. Normal behaviors seen in various animal species under conditions 

promoting good welfare are explained. Abnormal behaviors exhibited when influenced by

different illnesses and improper living conditions are considered. Information on recognizing, 

treating, and preventing pain and distress in animals is also provided.

Module 26: Nonhuman Primate Transport

This module describes the accredited veterinarian’s responsibilities related to transportation of 

nonhuman primates and oversight by various regulatory entities. Key aspects of preventing 

injury and minimizing spread of infectious diseases discussed. A review of the numerous 

certificates needed for transport of nonhuman primates is provided. 

Module 27: Bovine Trichomoniasis

This module provides an overview of bovine trichomoniasis and its impact on the cattle 

industry. State testing and entry requirements are presented. Proper sample collection 

procedures, and sample handling, packaging, and shipping of samples to a diagnostic laboratory

are reviewed. Resources to develop a herd management plan to reduce the risk of introduction 

and spread of disease on cattle operations are provided. 

Module 28: Significant and Emerging Viral Diseases of Carp, Koi, and

Goldfish

Cyprinids (e.g., carp, koi, goldfish) are an important aquaculture species within the United 

States. These species are susceptible to a variety of reportable, monitored, and emerging 
APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

diseases. This module describes and differentiates the OIE-listed diseases (koi herpesvirus 

disease and spring viremia of carp) of susceptible cyprinid, as well as other monitored and 

emerging diseases of concern for these aquaculture species (e.g., cyprinid herpesvirus 1 and 2, 

and carp edema virus disease). The module also discusses the role of the accredited 

veterinarian in monitoring, detecting, and reporting these diseases.

Module 29: Veterinary Feed Directive

This module provides an overview of the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD). An introduction to

antimicrobial resistance and the need for veterinary supervision of use of medicated feeds is 

provided. Regulatory oversight by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is discussed, 

including development of new animal drugs to be delivered in feed. The module reviews 

information to be included in and proper completion of a Veterinary Feed Directive. Resources 

for additional information are provided throughout the module.

Module 30: The Role of Veterinarians in Honey Bee Health

This module provides accredited veterinarians with basic knowledge of beekeeping, honey bee 

biology, and relevant honey bee diseases and conditions. The module focuses on the role of 

veterinarians related to antimicrobial use in honey bees and the issuance of prescriptions and 

Veterinary Feed Directives. Valuable services veterinarians can provide to beekeepers, such as 

assisting hobbyist beekeepers with plans for parasite management or assisting commercial

beekeepers with the development of protocols to be followed by beekeeping staff for disease 

detection and control are reviewed. 

Module 31: High-Impact Equine Diseases in the U.S.

This module provides accredited veterinarians with information on high-impact equine diseases 

that have occurred in the United States. Outbreaks of regulatory diseases that can lead to 

significant economic and trade impacts for the U.S. equine industry are reviewed. Principles of 

biosecurity to prevent and mitigate equine diseases are considered. 

Module 32: Regulation of Vaccines and Related Biologics

This module provides the accredited veterinarian with an overview of regulation of vaccines 

and biologics in the United States. The approval and monitoring processes for biologics are 

described. Information is provided on how an accredited veterinarian can access specific 

biologics information provided by the Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB). Communication 

mechanisms between the CVB and accredited veterinarians are provided. 
APHIS Approved Supplemental Training 

for Accredited Veterinarians

November 15, 2022

Module 33: [reserved]

Module 34: Veterinary Export Health Certificate System (VEHCS)

This module provides the accredited veterinarian with information about the functionality of 

the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS). It demonstrates the extent to which 

it can be used and describes how to access and use the VEHCS.

Module 35: Bovine Tuberculosis in Cattle

This module provides the accredited veterinarian with background information on bovine 

tuberculosis, describes the process for diagnosing bovine tuberculosis, and details the process 

for performing the caudal fold test in cattle. Information to aid in the interpretation of caudal 

fold test responses in cattle is provided. The steps an accredited veterinarian must follow once 

the caudal fold test is completed are detailed. 

Module 36: An Introduction to the National Poultry Improvement Plan 

(NPIP) and Domestic and International Movement of Poultry

This module provides the accredited veterinarian with an understanding of their roles, 

responsibilities, and opportunities with respect to poultry. The definition of “poultry” and the 

basics of the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) and the role it plays in poultry 

movement are discussed in detail. Included is an understanding of the process for preparing 

and issuing International Health Certificates (IHCs) for hatching eggs, day-old chicks, and other 

poultry exports. Potential accreditation violations and the ramifications of such violations are 

also discussed.

Module 37: [reserved]

Module 38: Role of Category I Animals in Foreign Animal Disease (FAD) 

Introduction and Transmission

This module explores the complex relationship between the accredited veterinarian, Category I 

animals, and foreign animal diseases. Several foreign animal diseases associated with Category I 

animals are discussed. Also discussed are the impacts of foreign animal diseases and the 

importance of mitigating those impacts. Resources to help accredited veterinarians keep 

current on foreign animal disease situations worldwide are provided. 

Module 39: Swine Health for the Accredited Veterinarians

This module provides an overview of the swine industry in the United States and the important 

swine health services provided by accredited veterinarians. Techniques for safely restraining, 

examining, and collecting a blood sample are reviewed. The types of official identification for 

use on swine, including official identification requirements when moving in interstate 

commerce, are considered. Clinical signs of swine diseases of concern are reviewed, as is the 

process for reporting suspicion of these diseases.