Small Animal Surgery Residency
The Small Animal Surgery Residency at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University offers a three-year residency designed to prepare veterinarians for board certification through the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).
Program Overview
This rigorous residency provides advanced clinical training, surgical experience, and academic development through Henry and Lois Foster Hospital for Small Animals in North Grafton, Massachusetts. Residents work alongside board-certified faculty specialists and gain exposure to a diverse caseload while developing expertise in both routine and complex surgical procedures.
The program is structured to meet all ACVS residency training requirements and combines clinical service responsibilities with comprehensive educational opportunities. Residents also have access to the Residents’ Enhanced Veterinary Education and Academic Learning (REVEAL) Program.
Clinical Training
Residents receive extensive hands-on experience in small animal surgery and participate in rotations across a range of specialty services, including:
- Radiology
- Anesthesiology
- Pathology
- Neurology and Neurosurgery
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Behavior
- Exotic Animal Medicine
- Emergency and Critical Care
- Small Animal Internal Medicine
Depending on individual interests and availability, residents may also have the opportunity to complete a rotation at a regional human medical center.
Residents assume primary responsibility for emergency surgical coverage throughout the program.
Teaching Opportunities
As part of the educational mission of Cummings School, residents play an active role in veterinary student instruction. Teaching opportunities include:
- Clinical instruction in hospital services
- Mentoring students in the Luke and Lily Lerner Spay and Neuter Clinic
- Evaluating student performance and clinical competencies
- Leading one clinical skills laboratory each year
These experiences help residents develop strong teaching and leadership skills alongside their clinical training.
Research and Professional Development
Residents are required to participate in research training activities during their residency and may choose to complete an independent research project.
Additional training includes extensive cadaver laboratory work to develop proficiency in:
- Surgical approaches
- Common orthopedic procedures
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques
Residents also participate in conferences, rounds, and other educational activities that support their professional growth and preparation for board examinations.
Evaluation and Certification
Resident progress is reviewed through semi-annual evaluations. Continuation in the program is contingent upon satisfactory performance and successful completion of program requirements.
Upon successful completion of the residency, participants receive a Certificate of Residency from Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.
Application Information
Applications are submitted through the AAVC Veterinary Internship and Residency Matching Program (VIRMP).
For further information, contact Dr. Raymond Kudej, Program Director.
Tufts University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.