The American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) is currently evaluating two proposed specialties that could significantly impact veterinary practice: acupuncture and embryo transfer. This initiative presents an opportunity for veterinary professionals to engage in shaping the future of these fields.
The American Board of Veterinary Acupuncture (ABVA) has reported that between 4,000 and 5,000 veterinarians in the United States have received certification in acupuncture. This practice has been associated with various benefits, including effective pain management, enhancement of cancer care, and improved quality of life for animals. Despite its widespread clinical application, acupuncture lacks formal specialty recognition, which hampers consistent credentialing, oversight, and educational advancements in the field. The ABVA argues that this gap needs to be addressed to ensure that acupuncture is held to the same standards as other recognized specialties.
The American Embryo Transfer Association (AETA) emphasizes that embryo transfer is a distinct and specialized area of veterinary medicine requiring extensive training and technical expertise. In 2023 alone, over 565,000 bovine embryos were transferred in the U.S., showcasing the relevance and demand for skilled practitioners in this field. The AETA seeks formal recognition to enhance the standards and practices surrounding embryo transfer, thereby ensuring quality care and compliance with biosecurity regulations.
To gauge the veterinary community’s views on these proposals, the ABVS is inviting public comments until August 12, 2025. This feedback will help assess both the uniqueness of the proposed specialties and the public’s need for these services within veterinary medicine. Currently, the AVMA recognizes 22 specialty organizations and 46 specialties, but the addition of acupuncture and embryo transfer could further enrich the landscape of veterinary medicine.
Veterinary professionals are encouraged to participate in this discussion and share their insights. Public input will play a crucial role in determining the future recognition of these specialties and their integration into veterinary practice.
