Veterinary ophthalmology has its roots in Europe, and early publications starting in the 1880s focused mainly on the horse eye. However, major political conflicts in this region of the world delayed further development in veterinary ophthalmology until well after World War II. In America, based on the success of the American Society of Veterinary Ophthalmology, and the growth and sophistication of private small animal practices in the 1950s, the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) was established in 1970. Final approval of the College by the American Veterinary Medical Association occurred in 1974. Similar veterinary ophthalmology specialization has occurred in the United Kingdom (certificate and diploma programs), Japan, France, Norway, Sweden, and other countries. The common market countries of Europe, and most recently, the Latin America countries have formed multiple country veterinary ophthalmology certification programs.

Practice of veterinary ophthalmology in the private sector has become both profitable and a stimulating professional career. Development of the specialty colleges, such as the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists in America, have been critical in the establishment of higher standards for the practice of veterinary ophthalmology, training of veterinary ophthalmologists, and the genesis and distribution of the majority of new information and scientific studies. Continued vitality of the ACVO-based academic programs depends on increasing the number of successful cooperative programs with the private specialty practices for clinical training of veterinary students and residents, and for clinical research. The future for veterinary ophthalmology is indeed bright!