In Belgium, the title of Veterinary Specialist is validated by the Belgian Medical Association (“Ordre des Médecins Vétérinaires”). Only the vets diplomates from an European or American College of Specialization can claim the title of “Specialist”.
An European Society of Veterinary Dermatology (ESVD) was created in the eighties with different objectives:
- The promotion of veterinary dermatology in all animal species, in both clinical and non-clinical fields.
- To improve standards of diagnosis and treatment.
- To encourage the exchange of information.
- To contribute to the research and teaching of veterinary dermatology at post-graduate level in Europe
The European College of Veterinary Dermatology (ECVD) is a veterinary specialty organisation which was established in 1991 by members of the European Society of Veterinary Dermatology (ESVD). The college was formed in response to a growing demand for specialised veterinary care for companion animals and a need to harmonise the certification of specialists within Europe.
In Belgium, for the region “Wallonie – Brussels” only two veterinary surgeons are recognized as Dermatologist (dermatovet.net). The advantages of a specialized consultation is a better knowledge in the specialized field with permanent updates.