Frequently Asked Questions

No, we provide only veterinary ophthalmology services.

No referral is required. Call or schedule with Vello to request an appointment with our board certified veterinary ophthalmologists in Eagan, MN.

Yes! We use the Vello app https://app.vello.idexx.com/login/VetEyePros for documentation.

Once you request an initial or recheck appointment (for returning clients) we will confirm the appointment time. Finding a pet eye doctor near Minneapolis can be challenging. Our team keeps a cancellation list so if you would like a sooner appointment please call our office to get on the list.

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Please call our office if your pet is experiencing an urgent eye problem and no appointments are available through our online portal. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency please visit your nearest emergency veterinary practice.

1. You and your pet will be greeted by our team and brought to an exam room.
2. A veterinary assistant or veterinary technician will obtain an initial history and perform baseline diagnostics.
3. The assistant or technician will then bring in the doctor.
4. A veterinary resident doctor may evaluate your pet initially or the veterinary ophthalmologist may come in right away.
5. Based on exam findings, we may suggest additional tests, medications, surgery, or follow-up for your pet.
6. After we've answered your questions, we will complete the exam, check-out process, and set-up a recheck exam while in the exam room.
7. A complete discharge summary including the eye exam findings, clinical photos, and plan will be forwarded to you and your primary care veterinarian
8. Our team will follow-up with any test results via email or phone call if tests were sent to an outside laboratory

Call our team at 651-202-3406. Established clients can also text 651-877-6171 or email photos and concerns to info@veteyepros.com.

To become a veterinary ophthalmologist, you complete a rigorous course of additional training AFTER becoming a veterinarian. Typically the entire process involves:

1. Bachelor’s degree (3-4 years): Most students begin with a bachelor's degree focusing on biology, animal science, or related subjects. This coursework prepares the student to apply to veterinary school.
2. Veterinary school (4 years): A doctor of veterinary medicine degree is required prior to any additional specialized training.
3. Rotating internship (1 year): Rotating internships involve working in all aspects of veterinary medicine and is typically completed at a multi-specialty veterinary hospital.
4. Specialty internship (1-2 years): Veterinary ophthlamology is a very competitive field with many applicants for each available residency position so most applicants do additional internships specializing in ophthalmology to improve their residency application resume.
5. Ophthalmology residency (3-4 years): Residency training programs prepare trainees for both clinical work and to pass the ophthalmology certfiying exam. Residents evaluate patients and perform surgery under the guidance of a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist. Programs are demanding and trainees have rigorous study schedules.
6. American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) Boards Exam (or the equivalent in your country): This exam is offered only once each year. Applicants must pass all sections of the written exam, image recognition exam, and surgical practical in order to achieve board certification.

Altogether, this takes about 12–14 years of education and training. Veterinary ophthalmologists diagnose, prescribe treatments, and perform surgeries to treat eye conditions in animals. Strong skills in science, patience with animals, and attention to detail are essential for success.