Animal owners who are informed about veterinary care alternatives are in a better position to make decisions they believe are right for themselves and their animal. ACVS has a section on its website (http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/HealthConditions/SmallAnimalTopics/) to educate animal owners about common health conditions affecting animals. When surgical expertise is needed, the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) is there to help. ACVS Diplomates work hard to form an interdependent partnership with general practitioners and animal owners to provide the best possible care to the animal. Simply put, the term "ACVS Diplomate" refers to a veterinarian who has been board certified (received a diploma) in veterinary surgery. Following surgery, the general veterinarian resumes ongoing care with the animal owner and veterinary patient. Trained in state-of-the-art surgical techniques, the Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons are dedicated to improving the way veterinary care is provided for animal owners and the animals they love. Veterinary Specialists of Alaska, P.C. is proud to offer the service of three board-certified surgeons: Mike Edwards, DVM, MS, DACVS; Nelson Priddy II., DVM, DAVCS and Dr. Dirsko J.F. von Pfeil, Dr.med.vet, DVM, DACVS, DECVS.