Certified Veterinary Acupuncture Therapist (CVAT)

Our certification training for Certified Veterinary Acupuncture Therapists combines a neuro-physiological ("Western") approach to acupuncture with an introduction to Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.

The teaching team is composed of experienced clinicians with extensive clinical backgrounds and education. This team includes certified acupuncturists, board-certified veterinarians from the American College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, individuals with master's degrees in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, and those certified by the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Practitioners and the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

The certification consists of a hybrid model with over 102 hours of RACE-approved education. It includes pre-course videos prior to each two (2) four-day in-person, hands-on practical learning modules.

Students will be able to use their education right away, leaving the first module feeling confident about patient evaluation and needling patients. After the second module, students will have the knowledge to treat patients with various conditions seen in general, specialty emergency, and rehabilitation practices.

The CVAT certification is for:

Licensed Veterinarians

Veterinary Students: Students may begin training with module one, Foundations of Veterinary Acupuncture, any time after their first year of veterinary school. The second module, Practical Applications of Veterinary Acupuncture, can be taken after their second year of veterinary school. Certification credentials will be awarded when the students obtain their veterinary licenses.

The 2025 pricing for the CVAT modules are:

• Module 1: Foundations of Veterinary Acupuncture: $3950
• Module 2: Practical Applications of Veterinary Acupuncture: $3950
• Total cost for certification: $7900

We understand that leaving home to improve education and skills is a commitment. To earn your CVAT certification, you will need to come to the CRI Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, for two (2) trips.

Learn more about traveling to Springfield below.

Note: The last day of class ends early to allow students the opportunity to return home that evening. Students who do not attend a full day of class will not receive any CE credit hours for that day and may have to return to make up the missing hours. Do not make airline reservations that require you to depart class before 3:00 P.M.