USGS Veterinarian Becomes Board Certified in Wildlife Veterinary Medicine: On September 20 Dr. Daniel M. Mulcahy, Alaska Science Center, successfully completed a two-day examination as the final step in attaining Board Certification through the American College of Zoological Medicine. The College considers training, experience, and contributions to the scientific literature, as well as an examination of knowledge over the broad field of zoological medicine, which includes avian, reptile, fish, marine mammal, zoo animal and wildlife, and an intense written, oral, and practical examination in a specialty field. Fewer than 50 veterinarians worldwide have been board certified by the College, which was accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1983. Dr. Mulcahy is only the second veterinarian to be board certified in the wildlife veterinary medicine specialty by the College. (Dan Mulcahy, Anchorage, AK, 907-786-3451)

The American College of Zoological Medicine was established in 1983 to recognize the specialty of zoological medicine. The objectives of the College, as stated in the constitution are: 1) to advance competency and scientific progress in zoological medicine; 2) establish standards for post-doctoral training and experience, and certify veterinarians as specialists in zoological medicine through a comprehensive examination; 3) encourage research on the medical, surgical, and management problems of non-domestic species. Prospective diplomates are qualified to sit for the certification examination requirements after meeting requirements of training, experience, and publication as set in the bylaws of the College.

The certification examination is given in two parts. The first is comprehensive, covering aspects of veterinary medicine relating to a broad range of animal groups including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The second part, taken after successful completion of first, covers in depth knowledge in primary captive zoo animal, avian, wildlife, reptile/amphibian, or aquatic medicine.

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