Chances are, your animal's doctor might never tell you, but you'd want to know: Your veterinarian is one of a very small group of doctors who have earned the title ''Diplomats'' from the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP).

What does that mean? It means that your veterinarian made a choice to undergo a very long, very difficult process of additional studies and examination, a process that can take up to three years to complete- to become a Board Certified Specialist.

When the work was accepted and the exam was passed, your veterinarian was awarded the title of Diplomat, It doesn't end there, though. Diplomates must prepare and recertify in their specialty every 10 years.

ABVP Diplomates have proven knowledge and expertise above and beyond what is required to practice veterinary medicine. What's more, they have earned the privilege to specialize in the treatment of one or more categories of animals.

What does all this mean to you? It means that you can rest easy. By having your animals seen by an ABVP Diplomate, you are making sure that they receive expert treatment. Your veterinarian feels a very strong commitment to providing the best possible care. In fact, the only motivation for becoming an ABVP Diplomate Is simply that... Excellence.