How to choose an avian veterinarian How to choose an avian veterinarian The BEST piece of advice I can give, is find a veterinarian before you have an emergency. Ideally find an Avian Exotic Animal Veterinarian before you purchase a bird. Make sure you have a suitable carrier handy so when an emergency does occur, you have a safe way to quickly transport your precious pet.
Any veterinarian can call themself an avian veterinarian.
Certification is given by the ABVP when an avian veterinarian has had six years of extensive, documented avian experience or formal training and has passed a series of complicated exams. There are less than 100 certified avian veterinarians worldwide. But just because a veterinarian is interested in birds does not mean he is proficient enough to treat them. The best way to find a good avian veterinarian is word of mouth. Talk to other people that have birds.