The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recently announced that the association leaders have approved an exotic companion mammal specialty practice area. This means that veterinarians can, after additional specific training in exotic species, can become board-certified to practice exotic pet specialty medicine. Read full AVMA press release.

The definition of "exotic" pets include ferrets (pictured), rabbits, rodents, guinea pigs hamsters and other small mammal pets. The new exotic pet specialty will fall under the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners' umbrella.

Related Reading and News Stories:

• AVMA recognizes new specialty for veterinarians
  From DVM Newsmagazine
• What Is A Veterinary Specialist?
  From your Guide
• Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organizations
  From the AVMA
• Veterinary Specialists — 2007 Statistics
  From the AVMA
• About.com Guide to Exotic Pets
  From Lianne McLeod, DVM.

Photo courtesy of GenGlo.