SCHAUMBURG, ILL. — American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) leaders gave the OK for an exotic companion-mammal specialty practice area that focuses on ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents and other small exotic mammals.

The new specialty received provisional recognition last month from the AVMA Executive Board following review by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties. The new specialty will fall under the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners' umbrella.