Veterinary specialists are individuals who have completed veterinary school (4 years after college) and an intensive 3-4 year program of advanced training in their area of expertise (a residency program). Most programs require that a research project is done and that a scientific article has been published. In order to be a board certified specialist, the person needs to pass an examination in that specialty. Most of the examinations are 1-2 days long with a combination of oral, essay, and multiple choice questions.

A diplomate in a certain specialty is someone who is board certified (i.e. has both completed a residency program and passed the specialty exam in their subject).

Animal Critical Care and Emergency Services (ACCES) is the only 24 hour emergency, critical care and specialty hospital for animals in the city of Seattle.  We are locally owned and committed to working with your regular veterinarian to provide the best care for your pet.

Animal Critical Care and Emergency Services has an experienced emergency veterinarian on premises, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days a year. Our specialists in internal medicine, surgery, and critical care are available to consult with your veterinarian and to accept referrals of patients who need intensive or specialized care. Our community blood bank provides blood products for animals who need transfusions.