Zoological Companion Animal Medicine Residency
Program Overview
The Zoological Companion Animal Medicine (ZCAM) Residency is a three-year advanced training program designed to prepare veterinarians for board certification through the American College of Zoological Medicine (ACZM). The program provides comprehensive clinical training in zoological companion animal medicine while fostering the development of clinical, research, and teaching skills.
Residents participate in:
- Primary patient care
- Daily rounds and case discussions
- Seminars and clinical conferences
- Professional development activities
- Research and scholarly pursuits
- Veterinary student and intern education
- Clinical Training
- Access to the NIH-supported REVEAL academic enrichment program
Training takes place at the Foster Hospital for Small Animals at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts, approximately 40 miles west of Boston.
Residents work closely with board-certified specialists across multiple disciplines, including:
- Internal Medicine
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Emergency and Critical Care
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Anesthesia
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Surgery
- Clinical and Anatomic Pathology
- Behavior
- Nutrition
Procedural Experience
Residents develop advanced proficiency in a wide range of zoological companion animal procedures, including:
- Patient triage and stabilization
- Intensive care management
- Elective and soft tissue surgery
- Avian orthopedic surgery
- Rabbit and rodent dentistry
- Diagnostic imaging
- Endoscopy
- Evidence-based clinical decision making
External Rotations
The program offers opportunities for specialized training through external rotations at regional zoological institutions staffed by ACZM diplomates, including Roger Williams Park Zoo.
Research and Teaching
Residents are expected to complete a departmental research requirement, which may be fulfilled through several approved pathways. Additional information is available from the Program Director.
As part of the educational mission of Cummings School, residents play an active role in teaching and mentoring veterinary students and interns. Responsibilities include:
- Clinical instruction during hospital rotations
- Assessment of student performance and clinical competencies
- Teaching one clinical skills laboratory each year
These experiences provide valuable opportunities to develop teaching, leadership, and communication skills.
Appointment and Certification
Residency appointments are made on a 12-month basis and are renewed annually upon satisfactory 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. Trinita Barboza, Program Director.
Tufts University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.