What is a DVM credential?
A DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) is a professional degree earned after completing four years of accredited veterinary school and passing state licensing exams, authorizing a veterinarian to diagnose and treat animal diseases, perform surgery, and prescribe medications.
A DVM, or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, is the foundational credential that allows a veterinarian to legally practice and prescribe treatment in Colorado. The degree requires completion of a four-year veterinary medicine program at an AVMA-accredited school, followed by passing the Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) and Colorado state board requirements.
This credential grants legal authority to perform clinical work that veterinary technicians cannot do independently. DVMs diagnose illnesses, perform surgical procedures, prescribe controlled and non-controlled medications, and determine treatment plans. While a DVM graduate may call themselves a veterinarian, they must be licensed and in good standing with the Colorado Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners to practice.
The DVM differs fundamentally from a veterinary technician (CVT or VT) credential. Technicians complete a two-year or four-year program and handle hands-on support like taking radiographs, drawing blood, administering vaccines under veterinary supervision, and assisting in surgery. They cannot diagnose conditions or make treatment decisions without a DVM directing their work.
When seeking care at a veterinary practice in Denver, the DVM-credentialed veterinarian holds the primary responsibility for your pet's medical decisions and outcomes. This distinction matters for understanding who evaluates your animal's condition and what qualifications back their recommendations.