The SCVMA is the nations largest regional veterinary medical association representing over 2900 members. We consider ourselves to be the source for all items related to veterinary medicine in Los Angeles and Orange County, California.

The History of Association

The Southern California Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA) is a professional association (501(c)(6)-non-profit), made up of veterinary professionals dedicated to the advancement of animal health. Founded in 1905, the SCVMA is made up of more than 2,900 veterinary professionals (from mostly Los Angeles County and Orange County) who have met all the requirements for membership.

The Mission of Association

The primary purpose of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association shall be the advancement of the science and art of veterinary medicine; the conservation and protection of animal health, including its relationship to public health and in general, the betterment of the veterinary profession.

In connection with this last object, by fostering continuing education programs,this Association may give opportunities to it’s members for the interchange of knowledge and the improvement of their skills.

Key Benefits of Membership

Collegiality

The veterinary profession is a small profession compared to other professions. The SCVMA provides venues and resources for you to network and commiserate about the day to day issues of being a veterinarian.

Continuing Education

Each month there are live and virtual CALIFORNIA STATUTORILY- approved CE meetings that provide many opportunities for both RVTs and DVMs to earn CE credits.  It is possible to meet your state requirements for CE without ever leaving LA or OC.

Representation

The SCVMA is in touch with local governments in both counties. We actively seek to be at the table for open discussions on local issues relating to the profession and small business.

Resources

The SCVMA website and the Pulse magazine provide information and resources on what is going on in the SCVMA as well as professional articles on clinical and business-based topics. The SCVMA Career Center provides resources and online classifieds with a variety of category listings.

Pulse

Pulse is the official magazine of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. The monthly publication reaches more than 3,000 veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians and veterinary office staff in Southern California.

Community

Communities allow you to participate in discussions and share resources with other members.

Many of you will be reading this with 2025 having already been ushered in, the busy rush of the holidays behind us, and with New Year’s resolutions in place.  This is a common time of year for reflection, and as I write this letter, I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting on the health of our community.  This is an area I feel deserves more thoughtful consideration and will be an important area of focus for my role as President.

Adam Gerstein, VMD

SCVMA President

Membership Options

  • DVM

  • $250 / yr.
    • For California licensed veterinarians practicing OR living in Los Angeles County or Orange County. Dues vary based year of graduation. For university faculty,  equine veterinarians or veterinarians working for public or non-for-profit entities, please email scmvainfo@scvma.org

  • Non-Resident DVMs

  • $175/ yr.
    • For veterinarians who reside AND practice anywhere outside of Los Angeles County or Orange County

  • DVM Student

  • FREE
    • FREE while enrolled in a veterinary college

  • Friend

  • $175/ yr.
    • For individuals working for or owning a business that provides services or products or supports the veterinary profession.

  • Para-Professional

  • $45/ yr.
    • For any veterinary hospital employee that is NOT a licensed veterinarian

  • RVT Student

  • FREE
    • FREE while enrolled in a program leading to eligibility to receive an RVT license

  • Veterinary Assistant Student

  • FREE
    • FREE while enrolled in a program that teaches veterinary assistant skills.

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