Program

Otitis externa is one of the most common (and frustrating) diseases in small animal medicine. This presentation will focus on EBM diagnostics and treatment options that may be very different than what ...

Otitis externa is one of the most common (and frustrating) diseases in small animal medicine. This presentation will focus on EBM diagnostics and treatment options that may be very different than what ...

synopsis to come!

The second half of this 2 part lecture will focus on common beardie diseases including nutritional secondary hyperthyroidism, atadenovirus infection, egg yolk coelomitis, parasites, aneurysms, pneumon ...

This 2-hour seminar will be an interactive overview of the low-level laser technology and its use in small animal medicine.  A basic overview of the physics and understanding of light energy and its u ...

Myocardial disease is the most frequently diagnosed type of heart disease in cats. Until recently, the two most common forms of cardiomyopathy in the cat were idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The discovery in 1987 that most cases of DCM in cats resulted from inadequate amount of available dietary taurine caused major changes in cat food manufacturing practices that significantly reduced the prevalence of DCM. Other, less frequently diagnosed, but also important cardiomyopathies in cats include restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM), arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).

All stages and risk factors for feline heart disease will be presented and discussed as a case based lecture predominantly.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic frustrating disease for both veterinarians and pet owners. Over the last few years we have come to understand that the disease is not just an aberrant immune response bu ...

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic frustrating disease for both veterinarians and pet owners. Over the last few years we have come to understand that the disease is not just an aberrant immune response bu ...

(see above)

Urine is an essential clinical test and too often overlooked or undervalued in diagnosing and managing our clinical cases. In this talk, interesting cases are discussed in which the complete urinalysi ...

It’s Friday afternoon and you’re about to head home for the weekend. A dog is rushed in with a hemoabdomen. The owner says, “he was fine this morning”. The family makes a quick and difficult decision ...

Mobility is a key factor in maintaining the quality of life of senior and geriatric pets. From frailty and muscle weakness to neurological issues, a decline in mobility impact their – and their owners ...

Assimilating the entirety of the biochemical data from a patient's labwork can be challenging! This case-based session will review patterns in the biochemical data from commonly encountered disease pr ...

The anesthetic risks of providing senior patients with adequate dental care can be minimized with pre-operative assessment and protocols. The benefits of providing such care impacts the entire patient ...

Providing optimal dental care for your patients can be very challenging if you don’t have the right tools to provide the best level of care. From simple hand instruments to advanced imaging, you can start or enhance your dental practice more effectively by obtaining, and maintaining, quality instruments, equipment and products. There is such a wide variety of choices out there, you will often have to make decisions on the level of equipment you want, compared to the budget you might have.

The use of intraoral radiography is critical in being able to accurately diagnose oral and dental disease, to assess the results of treatment, and to monitor therapy success in the long run. While films don’t have to be perfect to be diagnostic, adequate technique is necessary to be able to determine if changes are present. Practice in taking radiographs can increase the quality of the images provided, and practice in reading the radiographs taken will improve diagnostic skills.

We talk about the CBC as if it is one test -- when indeed it reports up to 25 different values and includes cytograms (graphical depictions of the cells). And to be complete, we pair those findings wi ...

When extractions go well, there is a sense of satisfaction with removing a source of chronic infection, inflammation and pain from our patients. But with a lack of formal training, less than adequate equipment and time constraints, complications and frustration are far too common. Here are some common issues that can arise to complications with dental extractions, and how to overcome them.

This 2-hour seminar will be an interactive overview of the low-level laser technology and its use in small animal medicine.  A basic overview of the physics and understanding of light energy and its u ...

It turns out that millennials may be more bonded to their “fur babies” than any generation prior. Data demonstrates veterinary preventive care, thriving practices tend to have a thriving millennials b ...

Learn how to structure your practice for lawsuit protection and prevention, how to protect yourprofessional and personal assets from lawsuits, reduce your malpractice insurance costs, how to protectyo ...

This course will describe the issues and methods used to determine a veterinary practice sale value,even with decreasing corporate prices. Most of the emphasis will be spent on how a fair market value ...

This 50-minute case-based talk will discuss how teleradiology can benefit general practitioner,  specialty practices, clients and patients.  Discussion will be largely case based focusing on imaging f ...

The veterinary professional shortage is no secret. To meet the projected need for pet healthcare in 2030, nearly 41,000 veterinarians will need to enter companion animal practices. There are many work ...

This lecture will compare and contrast the different rodenticides commonly encountered in North America.

Review some common foods people eat that are toxic to pets

This into to toxicology will be a high level overview of how to approach triage of a patient exposed to a toxin.

There is an anatomical difference between humans and animals in the oral cavity. Humans have a vaulted or arched hard palate, and animals have a flat hard palate. This causes a problem when you radiograph the maxillary cheek teeth and the rostral mandible and maxilla. You cannot place a film directly behind the entire tooth like they do in human dental radiology. The sensor is placed on top of the crown or slightly behind the crown to facilitate getting an image. Then, you manipulate the angle of the x-ray beam to get an image of the tooth that is close to the same length as the tooth structure.

This module reviews the terms and concepts necessary for veterinarians to make informed decisions regarding proper selection and judicious use of antibiotics in animals. The various benefits and limit ...

This module provides an overview of bovine trichomoniasis and its impact on the cattle industry. State testing and entry requirements are presented. Proper sample collection procedures, and sample han ...

This module provides an overview of the sheep and goat industries. Eight diseases of impact to these industries and that are of significant importance for animals moving in interstate or international ...

This module provides accredited veterinarians with basic knowledge of beekeeping, honey bee biology, and relevant honey bee diseases and conditions. The module focuses on the role of veterinarians rel ...

A proactive response when approaching Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) can save critical minutes when presented with these cases on an emergency basis. Brachycephalic dogs possess unique anatomical and physiological challenges, which can intensify their stabilization but also result in a rewarding outcome. Stabilization techniques, including more recent and interesting procedures, will be reviewed in conjunction with traditional management recommendations.

Canine lymphoma is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in veterinary oncology. The most common presentation in dogs is multi-centric nodal lymphoma (diffuse large cell), +/- involvement of any other lymphoid or non-lymphoid organs. There are several tests that can be used to obtain a diagnosis, as well as several tests that can be used on a case by cases basis that can provide helpful prognostic information. This presentation will go over the four most commonly employed diagnostic tests when a definitive cytologic diagnosis of canine lymphoma cannot be reached, 1) histopathologic evaluation, 2) immunophenotyping, 3) PCR for antigen receptor rearrangement (PARR), and 4) flow cytometry

The broad range of clinical signs often observed with lower urinary disease makes urethral obstruction a dynamic and often rewarding emergency to treat in cats. Common goals include rapid identification of life-threatening complications, choosing a safe sedation plan and passing a urinary catheter with minimal urethral traumatization, and managing fluid balance in the post-obstructive diuresis period. This lecture will also address current controversies around feline urethral obstruction and its management, including studies evaluating the efficacy of commonly prescribed medications.

Receiving a diagnosis of cancer in a pet can be life changing and devastating to our clients. Given the uncertainty associated with the condition and the frailty it can pose, as well as the concerns with the disease and treatment, it should come as no surprise that most clients experience anxiety & stress the minute you mention you are concerned this is cancer. Studies show that the more positive approach you can take in people with cancer the more likely they are to follow through with care, the more likely they would participate in a clinical trial and the more empowered they are in knowledge of their disease and options. This has to be true for our patients as well given the clients mental health in making those decisions for their furry family member. In this session, we will discuss how to strengthen your communications regarding cancer and help your client through this emotional experience with their pet.

Appointments with an older dog can be time consuming and difficult. Many of these patients present with multiple problems and it can seem both daunting and fruitless to try to fix every problem. This ...

In this lecture, Dr. Diana Hassel reviews the secrets of palpation per rectum in the diagnosis of a variety of conditions in horses, with an emphasis on colic diagnosis.

In this case-based interactive session, Dr. Hassel reviews the optimal method for abdominocentesis along with key indications for abdominocentesis and the use of point-of-care laboratory data in the field setting.

Diagnosing urothelial carcinoma in dogs can be challenging. These patients are usually presenting with chronic urinary symptoms and may have multiple cultures or rounds of antibiotics before imaging is pursued. There is a better way to diagnose these patients. This lecture will introduce you to a novel genetic test that can be pursued on the urine sample to diagnose urothelial carcinoma with 90-95% confidence. This allows for early detection. We will discuss the breeds that should be screened for bladder carcinoma at their senior screening and discuss the logistics of the test in your hands. We will also discuss advancements in therapy for this disease and how you can support these patients in your own clinic.

Oncologists have been harnessing the power of gold nanoparticles used in combination with infrared laser for the ablation of certain types of tumors with less pain, shorter recovery times, and good results compared with other commonly used treatments. In this lecture, we will review the use of this technology for treatment of low grade mast cell tumors in dogs which will be available to the general practice veterinary market through partnerships with oncology centers of excellence. We will also review recent data on the use of nanotherapy for the treatment of canine soft tissue sarcomas and other tumors in the hands of the veterinary oncologist.

The pressure technicians are under to provide diagnostic images can be underestimated when considering the variability of training and experience among a veterinary care team. The technician must be a ...

This presentation will guide veterinary professionals in choosing between radiograph, ultrasound and CT in small animal practices based on presenting complaints, thorough history and physical exam fin ...

Interactions in the exam room have a pivotal effect on client satisfaction, clinician satisfaction, and patient outcome. In the human medical field, positive relationships with the clinician are corre ...

This will be an interactive, case-based presentation focused on the management of a variety of wounds in the horse with special consideration of management in the field setting and optimizing therapy for complicated injuries involving synovial structures, high-motion areas, and tendons/ligaments.

In this presentation, we will review common and emerging conditions causing colic along with recent updates on the role of the microbiome, fluid therapy guidelines, new therapies, and more.

The study of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) in dogs is a relatively new field and we are gaining information with the advent of each new study. Dogs have been used a model for studying people wi ...

The slides in this presentation will provide examples of thoracic and abdominal orthogonal images and how to use a trough and PPE to improve diagnostic quality of these views. There will be an overview of ALARA and a brief explanation of the dangers associated with xrays.

Ways in which to master the new online-offline veterinary business model and how to strike the perfect balance between quality, cost and convenience in order to revolutionise a clinic's ability to bet ...

synopsis to come!

Description:  The Corporate market has been hot in recent years, but are the rumors true that it has slowed down?  Who is buying practices now – Corporates or Individuals? Considering the aging doctor ...

The phrases "strong leadership" or "effective leadership" are commonly used in job descriptions, job ads, and are a common expectation of the individuals in supervisory roles. But what do those phrase ...

The high amount of turnover in veterinary medicine has been well documented. How do you begin to fix a problem this big? This lecture will detail steps an organization can employ to interrupt turnover ...

A preemptive, multimodal approach is indicated when performing any painful dental and/or oral surgical procedure. Intraoral Regional Anesthesia using local nerve blocks are part of the intraoral pain management protocol. These procedures require training for both veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technicians.

When working up inflammatory diseases in the cat, it is essential to know that they can display similar pathogenic behavior at various stages of the disease process. Hence, diagnosing these diseases requires multiple diagnostic tests and a thorough patient history. Finally, with all these diseases, submitting tissue samples for histopathological analysis is vital for piecing together the diagnostic puzzle.

synopsis to come!

synopsis to come!

This module reviews the components of the Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) program, including the Animal Disease Traceability regulation (9CFR part 86), official identification devices and methods us ...

This module provides a detailed review of swine diagnostic sample collection techniques and the steps for properly labeling, packaging, and shipping diagnostic samples. It also emphasizes occasions wh ...

The working relationship between veterinarians and farriers is instrumental in achieving the goals set forth for each individual horse. This lecture discusses various cases, with multiple farriers, an ...

Learn how to address the influx in dog behavior due to the previous pandemic restrictions

This lecture will commence with a brief discussion on geriatric horses, and how some are more prone to various pathologies and conditions than others. This will delve into various boney and soft tissue conditions that can greatly impact a horse's life. The lecture will discuss the nature of going from an equine athlete and the various phases of retirement to pasture soundness. The conclusion of which is to manage a horse through all phases, and understanding the various developments that may occur along the way.

The practice of modern veterinary medicine requires an understanding of behavioral medicine and strategies that address the intrinsic relationship between physical and mental health. Anxiety and fear during veterinary visits are highly prevalent and significantly impact patient welfare, client satisfaction and employee safety.

How to apply humane handling to a veterinary appointment to prevent or mitigate escalation of fear, anxiety and aggression in dogs and cats

Psychotropic medications, nutraceuticals, diet and other behavioral tools are often recommended as part of an effective treatment plan for anxiety based disorders of dogs and cats. An individualized approach and familiarity with the various indications is necessary.

Every diagnostic modality used in medicine has strengths and weaknesses. This lecture discusses some of the limitations of radiography and what we as practitioners should keep an open mind to, so that ...

By meeting feline behavioral needs, you can decrease the potential for and improve the treatment of medical and behavior diseases.

Suture is an important component of surgical success. Learn useful guidelines for appropriate selection of suture material, needle type, suture pattern, and knot structure based on the surgery site an ...

Current wound management techniques actively support the healing process. Learn how to promote the progression from a contaminated, compromised wound to a healthy granulation bed, including what to de ...

Once a wound is healthy, surgical closure is an option if it can be done without excess tension. Learn the ‘how-tos’ of tension-relieving techniques in the context of clinical cases

Pain can be subtle to detect. The recognition of pain in our patients is vital when presented with a behavioral complaint. Various assessments and perspectives may be necessary to rule out pain as an ...

Eyelid abnormalities are common in the domesticated. dog and cat. Understanding anatomy, function and opportunity for surgical intervention are discussed.

Photographs, videos and facetime have enabled improvement in referral communication between general practitioners or rural practitioners. This provides a learning opportunity and better patient care for all.

Feline hypertensive retinopathy or feline iris aneurysms are very common in middle aged to older felines. Presentation on clinical findings, causes and schematics.

The session will delve into real-life examples of gaslighting, many of which might have become so normalized that they are not even recognized as such. By bringing these examples to light, attendees w ...

This insightful presentation explores the importance and benefits of crafting a cohesive personal and professional brand in the veterinary industry. Attendees will learn to define and evaluate their unique brand, incorporating emotional intelligence to develop and promote it effectively. The session emphasizes the significance of maintaining brand cohesion and demonstrates how leveraging this brand can attract clients, and opportunities, and build a strong network within the veterinary field. By embracing a unified identity, participants will gain a sense of autonomy and oneness, empowering their veterinary careers to thrive. Join us to unlock the potential of your personal and professional brand for lasting success in the veterinary field.

Cyber security has become a bit of a buzzword in 2021. The high profile cyber attacks on businesses like, The Colonial Pipeline, CNA, Kasyea & JBS have raised a lot of concerns amongst larger organiza ...

There are generally two types of veterinary hospitals. Those who try to skimp by on cheap computers running them until they barley turn on and those that have built on overkill enterprise level enviro ...

This session will have attendees double-check common reasons they feel stuck with difficult people (such as the assumption that they need to protect their fellow team members or that they'll face the same problems at any practice.) They'll learn to use their important reasons for staying to understand when it's definitely time to leave. Finally, they'll learn coping strategies to use in the meantime such as how to have a positive influence on difficult people, how to minimize harm, and how to build power to protect themselves.

The impact of lateral violence (bully and hazing) and likely impacted the majority of individuals in veterinary medicine. How do these behaviors develop? How can a hospital's leadership manage these i ...

Paradoxically, sometimes working more hours means practices will help fewer patients. Take a closer look at the data and how to apply triage skills to using what time we can carve out more effectively ...

We are hearing of increasing exposure to the rabies virus in both domestic and wild animals. Due to the nature of our work, how concerned should we be about potential exposure? Learn about how the vir ...

Urban chickens are becoming more and more popular in many communities across the country. Because these birds are viewed as pets and not food, their owners often seek out veterinary care when they are ...

We spend considerable time and energy training ourselves and our staff in CPR techniques, but do we ever consider what happens to those animals who we successfully recover? With even a short period of ...