A veterinary dermatologist is a veterinarian who, after completing four years of veterinary school, has completed an internship and residency program in dermatology and allergy. In order to achieve board certification, the individual must then qualify and successfully pass a rigorous examination covering all aspects of veterinary dermatology and allergy. At the present time there are approximately one hundred veterinarians who have achieved board certification by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. Board certification is the highest level of specialization available today in clinical veterinary medicine.