Qualifications

Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Diploma in Veterinary Dermatology
This is the highest award in the subject granted by the RCVS. It is obtained only after long study and a three-stage examination. In 1992 Dr. Chesney won a Scholarship, enabling him to undertake 15 months study leave at Bristol University Veterinary School, in preparation for the examination. The Diploma represents the highest level of expertise. Some veterinary surgeons hold the Certificate in veterinary Dermatology, this is similar to being a hospital Registrar, as compared with being a full Consultant.

Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Recognised Specialist
This qualification is granted by the RCVS only after rigorous investigation of the candidate's qualifications, research activity and publications, clinical and teaching experience. Each “Recognised Specialist” must submit themselves to re-assessment by the Specialist Recognition Committee every five years. Recognition is not always granted.

Diploma of the European College of Veterinary Dermatology (ECVD)
Like much science, veterinary dermatology has a world-wide reach. The ECVD is an examining and award-granting body, recognised as competent by the European Commission. Its entry rules as are as strict as those of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Dr. Chesney was awarded the ECVD Diploma in 1993, in recognition o f his established status and British qualifications. At present there are about 80 holders of the ECVD Diploma, throughout Europe. Of these about 1/3rd are in universities, the rest in practice.

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. D.Vet.Med. (London)
Christopher Chesney gained his doctorate in 1997, in recognition of research he carried out, part in practice, part during his sabbatical period at Bristol University. The thesis reported his research into the microclimate of the dog's skin, a feature which is known to affect not only micro-organisms on the skin, but the growth and activity of the skin itself.

Fellowship of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
For several years Dr. Chesney has served as an elected member of the Council of the RCVS, and on several of its Committees. One of these was the Disciplinary Committee (See Other activities). He became interested in the history of this Committee, which goes back to the Veterinary Surgeons Charter of 1844, and the first Veterinary Surgeons Act of 1881, and the manner in which the College had dealt with allegations of 'conduct disgraceful in a professional respect'. After considerable research in the College archives, assisted by Mrs. Mary Chesney, he wrote up the findings as a thesis to be submitted for the award of Fellowship of the Royal College. In the spring of 2011 this was accepted by the examiners and the RCVS Council. Dr. Chesney is now permitted - and proud - to append the letters 'FRCVS' after his name.