
Toll free:
A veterinarian of high ethical character who has fulfilled the requirements set forth for certification by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners is referred to as a Diplomate. Election of the candidate to Diplomate status shall be by majority vote of the Council of Regents. Diplomates must pay annual renewal fees in order to be considered in good standing. All fees must be current in order for a Diplomate to recertify.
By request, a Diplomate may be elected by Council to Emeritus Diplomate status. A candidate for Emeritus Diplomate must be retired from active clinical practice of the specialty. An Emeritus Diplomate shall be required to pay a renewal fee set by the Council. An Emeritus Diplomate will have voting privileges and may hold office. Emeritus Diplomate status may be rescinded if the Diplomate returns to active clinical practice. Recertification is not required of this diplomate classification.
Honorary Diplomate status may be conferred on an individual who has made substantial contributions to the development and progress of the specialty. This individual shall not be required to pay dues, and may not hold office nor vote.
Upon temporary discontinuation of active professional participation in clinical practice or for non-payment of renewal fees, a Diplomate may assume Inactive Diplomate status by approval of the Regents. An Inactive Diplomate may not hold office in the ABVP or vote. While Inactive, a Diplomate shall not be required to pay dues. Upon resumption of active participation in veterinary practice, an Inactive Diplomate, by request, may be reinstated to Diplomate status. This request shall be made to the Council of Regents and must be approved by a majority vote of the Regents. Inactive Diplomate status does not affect the original recertification date.