A board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO). There are just over 200 members of the ACVO.  In order to become a Diplomate of the ACVO, one must complete a 1-year internship and a 3-year ophthalmology residency after graduation from veterinary school.  These residencies are highly competitive and rigorous.  After successful completion of the residency, the veterinarian may be eligible to sit for the board examinations.  If the candidate passes all four parts of the examination, he or she becomes a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.