Advocate Issue 2 2019

F V M A ADVOCATE ISSUE 2 | 2019

FVMA 2019 ANNUAL AWARD HONOREES - Pg. 8 BEING UN-OFFENDABLE IN VETERINARY MEDICINE - Pg. 14 2019 FVMA LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP - Pg. 16 HCCE PERMIT INFORMATION UPDATE - Pg. 18 ORTHOTICS & PROSTHETICS: IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF PETS' LIVES - Pg. 22

President's MESSAGE I appreciate and am honored with the opportunity that I have been given as incoming FVMA president, and I am excited for the upcoming year.

As an organization, we must stand together to ensure the future of our profession continues to be a strong force that speaks for all veterinarians in this great state on a local and national level. Our profession is deemed one of the most trusted professions, and we need to ensure that it remains this way. Veterinary medicine is ever-changing, and we must stay on top of the emerging issues and obstacles we face to continue providing stabilization for us and our future colleagues. The future of veterinary medicine is bright. Even though we have areas of concern that need to be addressed and improved, we together can overcome these and continue to better our profession.

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OFFICERS

Dr. Michael Epperson President Dr. Mary Smart President-elect Dr. Donald H. Morgan Treasurer Dr. Marc A. Presnell Past President Mr. Philip J. Hinkle Executive Director

DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES Dr. Scott Richardson District 1–Big Bend Dr. Thomas E. Hester District 2–Northeast Dr. Todd Fulton District 3–Central Dr. Rachel Klemawesch District 4–Tampa Bay Dr. Susan M. Carastro District 5–Treasure Coast Dr. Marta P. Lista District 6–South Florida Dr. Barbara Lewis District 7–Southwest Dr. James M. Brechin District 8–Northwest Dr. Kelly J. Sloan-Wade District 9–Space Coast Dr. Ernest C. Godfrey AVMA Delegate Dr. Richard B. Williams AVMA Alternate Delegate Dr. Jacqueline S. Shellow FAEP Representative to the FVMA Executive Board

Veterinary medicine has provided so much for me and my family.

Because of this, I feel that it is my obligation to give back and help better the profession. I strive to work hard for our profession and will work together with you to bring issues to the forefront, and conquer battles to improve and protect veterinary medicine. No one person can change everything, but together — with hard work and dedication — we can change anything. Veterinary medicine has shaped me into who I am today. The people who have mentored and supported me, along with the clients that I encounter daily, give me strength and insight to be the person to whom a community depends on to provide care for their beloved companions. This is very special and something I do not take for granted. Being able to serve the community as a leader and trustworthy partner in pets’ health care is a rewarding experience.

The future is looking bright as FVMA membership continues to reach all-time historical highs. The FVMA has experienced unprecedented growth, program expansion, and financial strength and security.

This organization is committed to continued strength and advancement to ensure the FVMA can readily respond to any threat against the veterinary profession in Florida.

The FVMA’s 90th Annual Conference was a tremendous success. The lineup of speakers and wet labs were second to none, and a variety of topics were discussed. The staff of the FVMA worked diligently so the needs of the attendees were met.

I would also like to congratulate the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine’s graduating seniors. The FVMA honored deserving students and presented awards at the College’s commencement ceremony. I can remember when I graduated, and I wish them luck and success for they are the future of our profession.

I am looking forward to an exciting and busy year representing the FVMA. This organization is second to none, and we have the best members in the country. We will continue to strive to provide the best service and programs to meet the needs of our members.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Epperson FVMA President

FVMA MISSION THE MISSION OF THE FLORIDA VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION IS TO ADVANCE THE VETERINARY MEDICAL PROFESSION, PROMOTE ANIMAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING, AND PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH. 2 | FVMA ADVOCATE

In Remembrance Melbourne B. "Teg" Teigland, DVM FVMA Past President (1963) Dr. Melbourne B. “Teg” Teigland, 95, passed away on April 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Teigland was the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ (AAEP) seventh president in 1961 and also served as president of the FVMA in 1963. He has been recognized over the years for his contributions to the profession, along with his dedication to advancing the welfare of the horse.

He graduated from Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine in 1945 and moved to Miami to pursue a career in equine veterinary medicine. From 1950 to 1953, he served as a captain in the Air Force, overseeing the health of the first primates to be successfully launched into space. After finishing his military commitment, he returned to Miami and opened an equine practice now known as TFB Equine, one of the largest equine veterinary practices in the country. Dr. Teigland hired Drs. Benjamin Franklin, Jr. and Tom Brokken as associates, whom both eventually became partners

in the 1970s. In the 1990s, the practice exclusively offered Thoroughbred care.

Over the years, Dr. Teigland helped contribute to better understanding equine infectious diseases and providing improvements for equine orthopedic surgery. He was presented with the AAEP’s Distinguished Life Member Award in 1984 and was later named its Distinguished Educator in 2001. In 1985, Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine awarded him with the Stange Award for Meritorious Service in Veterinary Medicine, which is the highest award presented to distinguished alumni for their outstanding professional achievements and/or endeavors in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Teigland was an outdoor sportsman, enjoying activities like fishing and bird hunting. He also loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Verna “Bunny” Brannon Tiegland.

Horace E. Caton, DVM Dr. Horace E. Caton, 96, passed away on May 6 in Tallahassee, Florida. Dr. Caton was a member of the FVMA since 1995, and he practiced veterinary medicine for 36 years.

After serving in WWII as a fighter pilot, he attended Auburn University's School of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 1949. He spent a majority of his life in Orlando, Florida, where he met his late wife Betty and established Underhill Animal Hospital. His practice was only the fourth animal hospital in Central Florida when it opened in 1957. Since opening, Underhill Animal Hospital expanded four times from a 1,500-square-foot

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building to a state-of-the-art, 8,000 -square-foot hospital built in 2002.

In his spare time, Dr. Caton's hobbies included golf, fishing, growing orchids, wood working and cheering on his Auburn Tigers. He was an active member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

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- Continued

Leon H. Sellers Jr., DVM Long-time FVMA Life member Dr. Leon Herbert Sellers Jr., 91, passed away on July 1. He was loved and looked up to by many in the St. Petersburg community and was known for his passion for animals.

Because of his dedication to the veterinary profession, he was presented with the FVMA’s Veterinarian of the Year Award in 1986 and the FVMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. Dr. Sellers was a World War II veteran and was married to his wife Judy Pickett Sellers for 63 years. He was also very involved in the local Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Association and many local civic organizations.

TGAVC

2019

SAVE THE DATE

Dr. Sellers graduated from Auburn University in 1954, which is the same year he became an FVMA member. Over the years, Dr. Sellers dedicated his life to animals and the compassion he had for them. He built and opened Bayshore Animal Hospital & Avian Practice in St. Petersburg, Florida with Dr. Clifton Strickland in 1955. Dr. Sellers owned the animal hospital for more than 40 years, and it has been an AAHA-accredited animal hospital since 1976. His love for animals and the St. Petersburg community led to him helping develop the veterinary technician program at St. Petersburg College.

After selling his practice, he was an associate veterinarian at Park Animal Hospital in Pinellas Park, Florida, assisting Dr. M.H. “Mac” McGlamery Jr who owns the hospital. Dr. Sellers also was a part of a team that helped establish Animal Emergency Clinic of St. Petersburg. He then resided on its board of directors for several years. Dr. Sellers also worked as an on-call veterinarian for Derby Lane, the St. Petersburg Kennel Club, which is the oldest continuously operating greyhound track in the world.

THE

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Experience the Difference

DECEMBER

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2019

ANNUAL GULF-ATLANTIC

VETERINARY CONFERENCE BOCA RATON, FLORIDA

■ EXCEPTIONAL SPEAKERS, LECTURES &WET LABS ■ RELAXATION ■ NETWORKING

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In This Issue 3 | In Remembrance 5 | Dr. James W. Lloyd retires from position as dean of UF CVM 6 | FVMA President & President-elect 7 | FVMA Past President honored & District Representatives installed 8 | FVMA 2019 Annual Award Honorees 14 | Being Un-Offendable in Veterinary Medicine 16 | 2019 FVMA Legislative Wrap-up

18 | HCCE Permit Information Update 20 | 2019 Hurricane Preparedness 22 | Orthotics & Prosthetics: Improving the Quality of Pets' Lives 25 | UF CVM White Coat Ceremony & Clinical Investigator Award 28 | Practice Pulse 30 | Classified Advertisements

COVER PHOTO: Chi Chi radiated happiness and her smile was infectious. She inspired people all over the world to Never Give Up. Photo credit: Bob Fugate, rqfphoto.com 4 | FVMA ADVOCATE

DR. JAMES W. LLOYD RETIRES FROM POSITION AS DEAN OF UF CVM The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM) recently announced the retirement of Dr. James. W. Lloyd from the position of dean of the UF CVM. Dr. Lloyd has served as dean since 2013.

“The FVMA is sad to learn of the news of Dr. Lloyd’s retirement as dean of the College,” FVMA Executive Director Philip Hinkle said. “Dr. Lloyd has done an exemplary job as dean and has been a tremendous supporter of the FVMA and FAEP. We wish him the very best on his well-deserved retirement.”

Dr. Lloyd has accomplished much in his tenure at the university, advancing veterinary medicine through his work in academics with the veterinary students and clinically with faculty at the UF Small Animal Hospital.

He most recently helped improve the college's national ranking to ninth in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings of national veterinary colleges. This rank improved five spots from when it was previously ranked 14th in 2015. Dr. Lloyd also helped increase the overall size of business for UF CVM by nearly 70 percent, increasing research expenditures by 90 percent, hospital revenues by 70 percent, and gifts and endowment income by 110 percent. There have also been a significant amount of facility upgrades during Dr. Lloyd’s tenure, including the extension of clinical spaces, research spaces and learning environment enhancements to various facilities.

“Words can’t express the gratitude I feel for having had this opportunity to serve as your dean, and equally important, for the friendships I have formed during my tenure at UF,” Dr. James W. Lloyd said. “This experience has been enriching at many levels, and, once again, I thank you all for everything you’ve done to move our college forward. I know UF CVM will continue to grow and thrive in the years to come.”

Dr. Tom Vickroy is currently serving as interim dean for UF CVM. A 16-member search committee has been appointed jointly by Dr. Jack Payne, senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources, UF/IFAS, and Dr. David Nelson, senior vice president for health affairs and president of UF Health. FVMA Past President Dr. Marc Presnell serves on the committee, which held its inaugural meeting on June 3.

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NEW FVMA PRESIDENT AND PRESIDENT-ELECT DR. MICHAEL EPPERSON FVMA PRESIDENT 2019-2020 Dr. Michael Epperson, the 20192020 FVMA president, was installed on Friday, May 17 at the Annual Awards Ceremony & Installation of Officers at the 90th FVMA Annual Conference. Dr. Epperson previously served on the FVMA Board, most recently as president-elect and prior to that as the District 8 Representative. He is also a member of the Miracle Strip Veterinary Medical Society. His special veterinary interests include dermatology, surgery and ultrasound.

He is a two-time alumnus of Mississippi State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in animal and dairy science and later graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine. He and his wife Dr. Heather Hartley have owned Companion Animal Hospital & Boarding Center in Fort Walton Beach, Florida since 2008. They are a dedicated team focused on providing high-quality care for animals while embracing a strong doctor-patient-client

relationship. Their philosophy is to treat each pet like their own and provide the best care and medical treatment possible.

FVMA Past President Dr. Alex M. “Steve” Steverson (R) presents the president’s gavel to new FVMA President Dr. Michael Epperson (L).

DR. MARY SMART FVMA PRESIDENT-ELECT 2019-2020 Dr. Mary Smart was installed as president-elect on the FVMA Executive Board for 2019-2020. She most recently served as the District 7 Representative, serving Southwest Florida which is comprised of Charlotte, De Soto, Hardee, Lee, Manatee and Sarasota counties. She is a native of Maryland and attended the University of Maryland from 1976 to 1980, where she received a Bachelor of Science in animal science. She continued her

FVMA Past President Dr. Alex M. “Steve” Steverson (R) swears in FVMA President-elect Dr. Mary Smart (L).

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education at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she earned her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1985.

Dr. Smart has worked in both large and small animal practice as an associate veterina ria n; a relief veterinarian; an emergency medicine practitioner; and a practice owner in Sarasota, Florida and Manatee County. She is currently employed at Westbay Animal Hospital in Bradenton, Florida.

Dr. Smart is a past president of the Manatee County Veterinary Medical Society and is also a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. She has a soft spot for dachshunds and has two of her own named Ray and Lily. She also has a cat named Tigger and a horse named Chief. Outside of work, Dr. Smart enjoys spending time with her family, boating, bicycling and spending time at the barn with her daughter.

PAST PRESIDENT HONORED Dr. Marc Presnell was honored for his year of service as the 2018-2019 FVMA president at the Annual Awards Ceremony & Installation of Officers on May 17. He will now serve on the FVMA Board as past president where he also becomes president of the FVMA Foundation. Dr. Presnell has been a member of the FVMA since 1996 and has served on the FVMA Executive Board for seven years. In addition to most recently serving as

FVMA Past President Dr. Alex M. “Steve” Steverson (R) honors outgoing FVMA President Dr. Marc Presnell (L).

president, he also served as the District 3 Representative for five years, and was on the FVMA Budget and Finance Committee for eight years. An alumnus of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Presnell also served two terms as president of Ridge Veterinary Medical Society.

He was the recipient of the 2017 FVMA Veterinarian of the Year Award and the Gold Star Award in 2009. His practice, Santa Fe Animal Hospital, was named “Small Business of the Month” by the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce in December 2016, where he has served patients for more than 20 years. Dr. Presnell balances the demands of a busy practice with a service-driven lifestyle. Along with his service to the FVMA and its members, he is an elder in his church who conducts weekly classes, works in educational programs with needy students, and is involved with the Veterinary Academy at George Jenkins High School in Lakeland.

DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES INSTALLED

DR. SCOTT RICHARDSON

DR. THOMAS E. HESTER

DR. SUSAN CARASTRO

DR. BARBARA LEWIS

DISTRICT 1 REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 2 REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 5 REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT 7 REPRESENTATIVE

Dr. Scott Richardson was installed as the District 1 Representative for a second term, serving the Big Bend Veterinary Medical Association (BBVMA). He has previously served on the FVMA Budget and Finance Committee and also served as a past president of the BBVMA. He is a member of the AAEP, AVMA and BBVMA. Dr. Richardson owns and operates Lakewood Animal Hospital in Tallahassee, Florida with his wife Dr. Michelle Richardson.

Dr. Thomas E. Hester was installed as the District 2 Representative, serving the Alachua County Veterinary Medical Association, Marion County Veterinary Medical Association, Nassau County Veterinary Medical Association and Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society. This will be his first term serving on the FVMA Executive Board. He serves on the Alachua County VMA as a board member, and he also served as a past president in 2014. Dr. Hester currently works at Trenton Animal Hospital in Trenton, Florida.

Dr. Susan Carastro, the District 5 Representative joins other newly installed officers on the FVMA Executive Board to serve a second term.

She represents the Palm Beach Veterinary Society (PBVS) and Treasure Coast Veterinary Medical Association. She is board certified in veterinary ophthalmology since 1993, and opened The Animal Eye Specialty Clinic in 1996. Dr. Carastro served as president for the PBVS from 2012-2016.

Dr. Barbara Lewis was installed as the District 7 Representative serving the Charlotte Veterinary Medical Association, Southwest Veterinary Medical Association, Caloosa Veterinary Medical Society and Manatee Veterinary Medical Society. She was appointed by the Board to complete the term of newly installed president-elect Dr. Mary Smart. Dr. Lewis is an associate veterinarian at Braden River Animal Hospital in Bradenton, Florida.

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FVMA 2019 AWARD HONOREES DR. MICHAEL SCHAER – PRESIDENT'S AWARD Dr. Michael Schaer was honored with the FVMA’s 2019 President's Award.

Dr. Schaer currently serves as professor emeritus and an adjunct professor in emergency and critical care medicine at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM), and he continues actively teaching in the classroom and in the critical care unit. His previous roles with UF CVM include professor and associate chairman for the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, associate chief of staff for the Small Animal Hospital and service chief for Small Animal Medicine.

Before his time at UF CVM, Dr. Schaer worked in a private small animal practice in New Jersey until late 1978. He has published several papers and book chapters, and he has lectured nationally and internationally. He is also the author of five textbooks: three editions of “Clinical Medicine of the Dog” and two editions of “Clinical Signs in Small Animal Medicine.”

DR. DONALD H. MORGAN – DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD The 2019 Distinguished Service Award was presented to Dr. Donald H. Morgan for his service to the profession. Dr. Morgan was installed treasurer of the FVMA for his second term the same day. A past president of the FVMA, Dr. Morgan has served the veterinary profession for almost 50 years. His service includes being the District 4 – Tampa Bay Representative on the FVMA Executive Board and serving as president-elect then president from 2012-2013.

The FVMA honored Dr. Morgan in 2011 with its FVMA Lifetime Achievement Award because of his many years of dedicated service to the Association and the veterinary profession in Florida. He also received the Veterinarian of the Year Award in 2009. With an interest in the FVMA’s legislative advocacy program, Dr. Morgan provides valuable political counsel and guidance to the Association and is an avid supporter and participant in the FVMA’s Legislative Action Days. He was president of the Pinellas Animal Foundation, held offices in the Greater Largo Chamber of Commerce where he served as chairman and on the board of directors for 10 years, a part of the Largo Jaycees, and on the Largo Medical Center Board of Trustees as chairman. Dr. Morgan volunteers and is supportive of the Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Association (PCVMA).

DR. TERRY CLEKIS – VETERINARIAN OF THE YEAR The 2019 Veterinarian of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Terry Clekis on May 17. For the past 12 years, Dr. Clekis has served as the chair of the FVMA Disaster Committee. Last year, during Hurricane Michael, he and his team deployed to the Florida Panhandle to provide aid and assistance to the victims of the devastating storm. He showed outstanding service and dedication to the veterinarians and animals impacted by Hurricane Michael, which included spending countless hours preparing and maintaining emergency service before, during and after this deployment.

Dr. Clekis is a 1983 graduate of the University of Georgia’s veterinary school.

He purchased Braden River Animal Hospital in 2002 and later built the current state-of-the art, 5,000-square-foot facility behind the original building in 2007. In 2017, he opened North River Animal Hospital in Parrish, Florida. Dr. Clekis was instrumental in starting and serving as the president for the Manatee County Veterinary Medical Society. In 2007, he was awarded the FVMA Gold Star Award. He is a board member of the Southeast Guide Dog Association, the Manatee County Humane Society and the American Heartworm Society. Dr. Clekis is also an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Southwest Florida Veterinary Medical Association.

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DR. JAN M. HASSE – LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Dr. Jan Hasse was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the FVMA Annual Awards & Installation of Officers on May 17. He served as president of the FVMA in 2010. Before his presidential term, Dr. Hasse was the FVMA District 7 Representative for six years. He became active in organized veterinary medicine after graduating as a veterinarian in 1977 and joining the FVMA. He held other leadership positions within the organization before joining the FVMA Executive Board including co-chairman of the FVMA Disaster Response Committee and chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee.

Dr. Hasse was also an active member of the Southwest Florida Veterinary Medical Association for which he served as secretary/treasurer, vice president and president.

A graduate of Oklahoma State College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Hasse worked as an associate for one and a half years before opening Sarasota Animal Hospital in 1979 with his wife and fellow veterinarian Dr. Debbie Hasse. The Hasse team served as dedicated practitioners, assisting their community in Sarasota for more than 30 years. Dr. Hasse distinguished himself as a strong and beneficial president for the FVMA and still dedicates himself to the advancement of the profession and well-being of animals.

In retirement, Dr. Hasse continues to give his time to caring for animals in our state as a relief veterinarian and lending his counsel and time to the FVMA on committees and task forces whenever he is called to serve by his Association. He most recently provided valuable time and counsel as a member of the FVMA Hurricane Irma Disaster Relief Task Force.

DR. JERRY P. SHANK – LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Dr. Jerry Shank was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the FVMA Annual Awards & Installation of Officers on May 17. He served as FVMA president from 2009-2010. Prior to serving as FVMA president, Dr. Shank served the FVMA as the District 6 Representative from 2002-2006. He served as the chair of the FVMA Budget and Finance Committee from 2007-2008, along with being the FVMA president-elect. While serving as the 2010-2011 FVMA past president, Dr. Shank was also the president of the FVMA Foundation and chair of the Awards Committee.

Dr. Shank was also very involved in the veterinary community in South Florida. He was the founder and director of Shank Animal Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He also served as president of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Shank was the founder and director of the South Florida Academy of Veterinary Medicine, which provided CE programs for veterinarians. He was the founder and owner of Veterinary Clinical Laboratories in Southeast Florida. He was known for doing many things for veterinary medicine without recognition — continuously giving back to the profession over the years on a local and state level.

DR. JAMES W. LLOYD – CHAMPION OF VETERINARY MEDICINE The FVMA honored Dr. James W. Lloyd with the 2019 Champion of Veterinary Medicine Award. Dr. Lloyd has provided exemplary service to the FVMA as ex-officio member on the Executive Board for the past six years. As dean of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM), he saw tremendous accomplishments for the College, helping to secure the future of veterinary medicine in the State of Florida and UF’s standing as a preeminent institution in the United States. During his tenure, the UF CVM’s national reputation has grown to achieve a ranking of ninth in the U.S. News & World Report rankings of U.S. veterinary colleges, up five spots from 2015.

Dr. Lloyd holds a Ph.D. in agricultural economics & operations research from Michigan State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in fisheries & wildlife in 1978 and also his DVM in 1982. He previously served as the associate dean at Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and president of the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association in 2010. He was a leader of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues working group on Enhancing the Skills, Knowledge, Aptitude, and Attitude of Veterinarians from 2000-2009. He has published more than 165 journal articles, technical reports, proceedings and book chapters, in addition to delivering more than 330 presentations and workshops nationally and internationally.

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FVMA 2019 AWARD HONOREES ...CONTINUED BILL GRAY – CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Bill Gray was honored with the Citizen of the Year Award for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of animal well-being and veterinary medicine in Florida. Gray serves as president of an exemplary animal rescue organization known as Second Chance Friends, which serves the Tampa Bay area and beyond. He goes above and beyond and has raised the bar in providing compassionate and professional care for animals that have been neglected and/or abandoned, thus, requiring extensive veterinary care. He has been able to provide a vital service by the strong working relationships he has established over the years with veterinarians, retailers, animal trainers and a statewide network of professionals who support his rescue efforts.

PAULA J. ROWELL, CVT – CVT OF THE YEAR Paula J. Rowell, CVT, was honored on May 17 as the FVMA’s 2019 Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) of the Year. Rowell is a certified veterinary technician at Palmetto Animal Clinic in Palmetto, Florida and has worked in veterinary medicine for 20 years.

She is praised for her dedication, trustworthiness and loyalty as she often goes the extra mile. She has performed receptionist and managerial duties, along with everything in between. She is considered the doctor’s right-hand woman. With a passion for her work and the veterinary profession, Rowell provides top-quality care to patients. She obtained a degree as a certified veterinary technician from St. Petersburg College in 2008 and later established a veterinary technician scholarship for students who attend the college.

DEBBIE HAWKES – TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR The 2019 Team Member of the Year Award was presented to Debbie Hawkes for being a vital member of the veterinary care team. Hawkes’ serves as a client care specialist for Animal Eye Guys of South Florida. She is an outgoing manager and excellent relationship builder. Her employer credits this unique attribute and Hawkes’ dedication for much of the success of their threeclinic specialty practice. Hawkes served for two years as the South Florida Veterinary Medical Association executive secretary in 2015. During that time, she helped to develop and grow the South Florida VMA’s continuing education program and focused on improving the VMA’s social interactions and events.

CORAL – PET HERO The 2019 Pet Hero Award was presented to Coral, a Broward County therapy dog. Coral is a member of the inaugural squad of therapy dogs that began attending the Broward County Judicial Circuit Pilot Therapy Dog Program in 2013. She attends court sessions involving children, helping to decrease their anxiety and provide comfort. Coral possesses all the attributes of the best court therapy dogs: She’s nonreactive to drama, outbursts and the general environment of court proceedings. It takes a special dog to be able to remain calm under these very trying circumstances, and she exemplifies the best in the human-animal bond. Coral and her handler Judy Eason have dedicated thousands of volunteer hours in specialized training to become a certified therapy dog. Coral’s credentials include: AKC Canine Good Citizen, Canine Assisted Therapy Dog and National Crisis Response Canine. Along with the work she does in the courtroom, Coral’s therapy schedule includes regular visits to the local VA nursing home, with special needs children at a primary school, a private nursing home and to college students at Nova University during exam time.

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GOLD STAR

Award RECIPIENTS The FVMA awards the Gold Star to member veterinarians who go above and beyond the call of duty to care for patients, and who exemplify dedication and compassion in their veterinary practice.

Congratulations!

2019 Gold Star recipients (L-R): Drs. Kelly A. Haeusler, Donna McWilliams, Todd Fulton, B. Craig Price, Karen Morrow and Philip Richmond.

DR. DAVID BORDELON Dr. David Bordelon graduated from Louisiana State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1991. After five years DAVID BORDELON in general practice, he DVM, DACVECC pursued a career in emergency medicine, completing a residency in emergency and critical care in 2002. He became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care in 2003. In 2003, Dr. Bordelon moved to Pensacola, Florida where he established the Veterinary Emergency Referral Center. He currently serves as president of the Northwest Florida Veterinary Medical Association and gives much of his time help the organization continue to thrive.

DR. SONDRA BROWN Dr. Sondra Brown practices at Northwood Animal Hospital in Tallahassee, Florida. In 2014, she devised a model SONDRA BROWN for the Tallahassee Stand DVM Down — a community outreach event to help homeless veterans by providing them with needed resources to help their overall sense of well-being — to offer veterinary care to homeless veterans through a full-service veterinary clinic. In the first year, 272 veterans were served and

13 dogs were seen. Dr. Brown has helped grow the veterinary services offered at the event each year, allowing a large number of pets to been seen in a short period of time. It is because of Dr. Brown’s selfless efforts that these veterans don’t have to worry about the health of their pets and are able to focus their attention on bettering themselves.

his special interests include internal medicine and surgery. Dr. Fulton practices at Christina Animal Hospital and has been there since 2005. He is also a member of the AVMA and Central Florida Academy of Veterinary Medicine.

KELLY A. HAEUSLER, DVM TODD FULTON, DVM

DR. TODD FULTON Dr. Todd Fulton has been a member of the Ridge Veterinary Medical Society since 2005, acting as a liaison for both the CFVMA and RVMS. He currently serves as the District 3 Representative for the FVMA Executive Board and has served as a delegate at Legislative Action Days for the past three years. Dr. Fulton is a graduate of Louisiana State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine where he also completed advanced training in diagnostic imaging. In addition to diagnostic imaging,

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DR. KELLY A. HAEUSLER Dr. Kelly Haeusler is a 1987 graduate of Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She purchased Airport Veterinary Clinic in 1998 and has been working there since. She is an active member of the Miracle Strip Veterinary Medical Society since 1987, serving as president in 1988, and has also served on the Niceville Veterinary Emergency Clinic as a member of the executive board. Dr. Haeusler has served as an annual judge for the Okaloosa County regional science fair

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GOLD STAR for 31 consecutive years, showcasing how important community service is to her.

This will be the second time Dr. Haeusler has received the FVMA Gold Star Award, having previously been awarded it in 2001.

DONNA McWILLIAMS, DVM

DR. DONNA McWILLIAMS Dr. Donna McWilliams is an active member of her veterinary community. She is a 2002 graduate of Virginia Tech, and is certified in canine rehabilitation and veterinary acupuncture. Dr. McWilliams owns My Pet’s Animal Hospital in Lakeland, Florida and is also a behavioral training specialist. She plays an active role in the Ridge Veterinary Medical Society, having served as a past president and founding the K-9 Care Program. This program looks to continue to provide medical care to retired police dogs, ensuring the well-being of Lakeland’s K-9 police officers.

Award RECIPIENTS

needs to the Central Florida area since 2001. She received her DVM degree from Colorado State University in 1990, followed by a master’s degree in radiological health science in 1996. Dr. Marrow also completed a three-year residency in veterinary radiology and is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Radiology.

DR. ROBERT T. PANE Dr. Robert T. Pane is a 1975 graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University and has been serving the ROBERT T. PANE South Florida veterinary DVM community for more than 40 years. He founded South Kendall Animal Hospital in 1977. He is an active member of the South Florida Veterinary Medical Association (SFVMA) and Miami Veterinary Foundation (MVF), serving as a past president for both. Dr. Pane is also a board member for the Humane Society of Greater Miami. He spends his time volunteering within the community with the MVF, and was involved in its Project Unleashed which provides support to the pets of Camillus House.

B. CRAIG PRICE, DVM KAREN MORROW, DVM, MS, DACVR

DR. KAREN MORROW An active member of the Central Florida Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Karen Morrow has been providing her radiology

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DR. B. CRAIG PRICE Dr. B. Craig Price graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 1986, serving as his senior class president and receiving the Dairy Practitioners Award that same year. He opened Black Creek Veterinary Hospital in 1988 to provide the highest quality of care

for the Greater Jacksonville metro area. He has played an active role in the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society, serving as a past treasurer. He has also been a longtime delegate for his area and has repeatedly participated in FVMA’s annual Legislative Action Days in Tallahassee, Florida.

PHILIP RICHMOND, DVM

DR. PHILIP RICHMOND Dr. Philip Richmond has been helping lead the FVMA’s efforts in shaping and bringing awareness to the topics of wellness and well-being for the veterinary profession in Florida. He is the chair of the FVMA Wellness and Well-being Committee and the FVMA Outreach Committee. Through this leadership position, he has helped coordinate efforts to enhance the wellness and well-being programs and resources offered at UF CVM for its veterinary students. He has also participated in panels about wellness outside the state, including at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Richmond graduated from UF CVM in 2006, and he is also a member of the Suncoast VMA and the AVMA.

2019

Award HONOREES

Counting Down the

Top 10 Reasons to Attend the

September 8-11, 2019 • New Orleans, Louisiana #10. Attendees love this meeting. When asked to evaluate the value of the last AHS Symposium attendees scored it 4.8 out of 5. And this year’s meeting promises to be even better. #9. No other scientific meeting convenes this many heartworm experts. From parasitology to pathology the American Heartworm Society (AHS) program combines the latest in heartworm research findings with practical insights. #8. You’ll do more than listen to the experts—you’ll meet them, too. We know that symposium attendees come with questions. Our program facilitates interaction between speakers and attendees during the program and at our Meet the Professor lunches. #7. There’s a lot to learn about heartworm disease. Whether the topic is heartworm prevalence, the pros and cons of different diagnostics, lung pathology or learning about new product research, there’s never a dull moment at this meeting. #6. It’s one of the best C.E. values you’ll find. Practitioners who attend the full meeting can earn at least 20 credits, and the fee includes a number of meals, receptions and breaks. #5. You’ll meet interesting people. Heartworm disease is a worldwide problem and this conference attracts attendees from across the country and around the world. #4. You can bring your staff, too. Veterinary technicians are welcome to attend and can take advantage of special rates. #3. The venue is second to none. New Orleans is our standing location. Whether your interest is great jazz, Cajun cuisine or unique tours and architecture, there’s something for everyone in the Big Easy. #2. The hotel is superb, too. The New Orleans Ritz-Carlton is in the heart of the French Quarter with rates of just $179/night o(first-come, first-served). C’est bon!

We’ll see you in New Orleans!

And finally… #1. You have patients with heartworms.

How many more reasons do you need?

To register, visit heartwormsociety.org/2019-triennial-symposium.

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Ceva | Elanco | Boehringer Ingelheim | Zoetis

GOLD SPONSOR

Virbac Animal Health

SILVER SPONSORS

IDEXX | Merck

BEING

Un-Offendable

IN VETERINARY MEDICINE

By Dani McVety-Leinen, DVM While in a conversation with our accountant this week, we were discussing typical work schedules for veterinarians and accounting teams. She noted that a 50-to 60-hour work week is rather typical in the field, where there can even be an upwards of 80 hours per week during the busy (tax) season. She ended her statement with “but no one complains too much. We all knew what we were getting into.” It got me thinking about the mental stamina of our profession compared to others: Do we actually have mental issues in veterinary medicine, or is it a problem that other professions face as well?

I am by no means a master of this conversation but rather a student of it. I’m constantly fascinated with the fact that, as veterinarians, we spend most of our formative years dreaming of the day we will be able to care for pets. Then, once we graduate, a large percentage of our colleagues struggle with mental illness. Many times, I hear this struggle being blamed on veterinary medicine: The hours are too long. The clients are too mean. The moral/ethical stress is too much. Appointment blocks aren’t long enough, and so on. The question I’m constantly asking myself is “Is this veterinary medicine’s fault, or is there something else that’s missing?”

This truly became a fascination of mine when I was on the academic admissions board at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. I’ve helped on the interview board for years ever since I was a student but being on the admissions board was an even richer experience. I highly recommend everyone volunteer for at least two years. Reading application after application, the essays about becoming a veterinarian and the doctors that inspired these students to join the profession — it was truly moving. These students would give almost anything to be accepted into veterinary school!

So where does the disconnect happen? Why are we losing the passion for something we strived so hard to achieve in the first

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place? Is it a generational issue that leaves us feeling unsatisfied as soon as we get what we wanted, or is it a constant desire for more?

Or is it that our clients truly are difficult?

I certainly don’t have the answer, but I do believe it lies somewhere at the beginning of our journey. Regardless of any other factor or difficult stressor we must get over, if there’s one thing I would advise new veterinarians to do, it would be to never blame your problems on anyone or anything else. In my family, we call this being “un-offendable.”

What does this look like? It means that nothing that is going wrong in your life — from your schedule at work to the way a coworker looked at you — should be taken personally. So many of us tend to go to work thinking everyone is out to get us, when in reality everyone is simply dealing with their own struggles with no concern for you whatsoever. My mother used to tell me “you wouldn’t care so much what other people thought of you if you knew how infrequent they did.” This statement reminds me on a daily basis that if you live your life caring what others think of you, or assuming they want to cause ill-intent, you’ll be a very busy person managing everyone else’s expectations.

This accountability mentality — being un-offendable — has changed my life in countless ways. When I wasn’t thrilled with the jobs available to me (I graduated in 2009, a very downeconomy), I decided to make my own business doing something I loved. Instead of worrying about not “climbing the ladder,” I simply made my own ladder. Sure, this still means late nights working, but it’s a tradeoff I’m more than happy to make.

I’m certainly not suggesting that being accountable for your life and job experience will change everything for the better, but I am suggesting that it has the potential to help immensely.

Yes, we absolutely must care for our profession, protect our colleagues and do whatever we can to ensure our quality of life — those things will never go away. We can also make difficult, uncomfortable decisions in place of complaints and blaming.

Making the decision to move jobs, downsize your expenses or cut back altogether to ensure more family time will all require sacrifices. The question we all must ask ourselves is this: Do we value our priorities enough to make those sacrifices, or do we prefer to live uncomfortably yet feeling the right to complain?

Clearly this is not an easy question to answer, but if we desire to be happy, it’s one we must take on.

WWW.FVMA.ORG |

Dani McVety-Leinen, DVM Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice - Nationwide

Dr. Dani McVety-Leinen is the co-founder and CEO of Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice and cohost of PetCareTV. She frequently writes and speaks for professional and lay audiences in hopes of empowering both parties to seek the highest standards of care. Her talks have quickly garnered the reputation of being “ fantastically hilarious,” “bringing humor where it’s needed most,” “incredibly inspiring” and “simply authentic.”

As a certified body language instructor, one of her favorite topics is communication because “communication is the heart of all that we do; it is lifeblood of all our interactions.”

Drs. McVety-Leinen, Gardner and Lap of Love have been featured on numerous local, national and professional media outlets, including ABC, Fox 13, Associated Press, The New York Times, Washington Post, Entrepreneur Magazine, Huffington Post and many more. Dr. McVety Leinen graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and is the youngest recipient the College’s Distinguished Young Alumni Award (2013). She has also received the FVMA's President's Award (2014) and the Pet Industry Woman of the Year (2016).

THE FVMA |

@FLORIDAVMA |

@FLORIDA_VMA | 15

2019 FVMA LEGISLATIVE The Florida Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA) had a successful 2019 Florida Legislative Session. Not only did the FVMA’s Legislative Action Days have the outstanding participation of a 45-member delegation of veterinarians and students, the FVMA achieved a significant legislative success alongside coalition partners. We also saw passage of several bills that benefit Florida's animals and those who care for and work with them, and we helped to defeat legislation that posed threats to the practice of veterinary medicine and animal patients entrusted in our care.

The 2019 Legislative Session started March 5 and lasted through May 4. Some 3,500 bills were introduced at the beginning of the Session, and only 197 of them were passed by the Florida Legislature.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed off on the FVMA priority bill, HB 7125: Public Safety, on Friday, June 28. The bill, which goes into effect on October 1, 2019, allows a veterinarian who suspects a criminal violation to report the violation to a law enforcement officer, a certified animal control officer or an appointed agent without notice to or authorization from the client. Instrumental in the bill's passage was Florida Senator Jeff Brandes (R) who championed the bill language crafted by the FVMA and coalition partners, ensuring that it was included in HB 7125 and giving the veterinary profession in Florida a great win for 2019.

The following report was provided at the end of the 2019 Legislative Session by FVMA's new lobbying firm ConVerge Government Affairs. It highlights bills that were on the FVMA's agenda which passed and those that did not.

CAPITOL

Update

END-OF-SESSION REPORT

The 2019 Legislative Session has concluded In an unusual extended session, the Florida Legislature concluded the 2019 Legislative Session on Saturday, May 4, a direct result of budget negotiations that did not finish with sufficient time for the constitutionally-mandated 72 hour budget review period. The extended session was an anomaly in a session where the Legislature otherwise expeditiously resolved a large number of significant pieces of legislation related to education, health care, insurance and transportation.

With regard to legislation affecting animal welfare, a proliferation of bills were filed this legislative session. Our proposal to revise and clarify the veterinary patient client relationship received a favorable hearing in the Senate but ultimately did not pass after receiving significant resistance from leadership in the House.

In addition, legislation to provide care for retired law enforcement dogs, prohibit the euthanization of animals if a rescue organization will take custody, and limit the sale or lease of pets all failed.

A number of bills did pass, however. Primary among those passed was a bill to allow veterinarians to report suspected animal cruelty without client notice or consent. This reporting language 16 | FVMA ADVOCATE

2019 Legislative Session Highlights

• Passed: Reporting of animal cruelty without client notice or consent.

• Passed: Increased penalty for harming or killing police canines or horses, fire canines, or search and rescue canines.

• Failed: Preemption of local regulations prohibiting the retail sale of dogs or cats.

• Failed: Expansion of the limited service veterinary medical practice.

was protected by Sen. Jeff Brandes during extensive negotiations between the House and Senate on the final bill.

Others passed provided for enhanced penalties for the harm or killing of police horses and police, fire, and search and rescue canines and the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs was required to contract for alternative treatment for veterans, which includes equine therapy and service animal training therapy.

W

Wrap-up

Senator Jeff Brandes (center in front of American Flag) in his office with members of the FVMA delegation during the FVMA’s 2019 Legislative Action Days.

HB 7125 Public Safety Amends s. 474.2165, F.S. Section 18. Subsection (4) of section 474.2165, Florida Statutes, is amended to read: 474.2165 Ownership and control of veterinary medical patient records; report or copies of records to be furnished.— (4) Except as otherwise provided in this section, such records may not be furnished to, and the medical condition of a patient may not be discussed with, any person other than the client or the client’s legal representative or other veterinarians involved in the care or treatment of the patient, except upon written authorization of the client. However, such records may be furnished without written authorization under the following circumstances: (a) To any person, firm, or corporation that has procured or furnished such examination or treatment with the client’s consent. (b) In any civil or criminal action, unless otherwise prohibited by law, upon the issuance of a subpoena from a court of competent jurisdiction and proper notice to the client or the client’s legal representative by the party seeking such records. (c) For statistical and scientific research, provided the information is abstracted in such a way as to protect the identity of the patient and the client, or provided written permission is received from the client or the client’s legal representative.

(d) In any criminal action or situation where a veterinarian suspects a criminal violation. If a criminal violation is suspected, a veterinarian may, without notice to or authorization from the client, report the violation to a law enforcement officer, an animal control officer who is certified pursuant to s. 828.27 (4) (a), or an agent appointed under s. 818 828.03. However, if a suspected violation occurs at a commercial food-producing animal operation on land classified as agricultural under s. 193.461, the veterinarian must provide notice to the client or the client’s legal representative before reporting the suspected violation to an officer or agent under this paragraph. The report may not include written medical records except upon the issuance of an order from a court of competent jurisdiction.

Public Safety — HB 7125 Effective October 1, 2019 • The bill authorizes a veterinarian to report suspected criminal violations without notice to or authorization from a client, to a law enforcement officer, an animal control officer, or an approved animal cruelty investigator.

However, if the suspected violation occurs on a commercial food-producing animal operation on land classified as agricultural the veterinarian must provide notice to a client or a client’s legal representative prior to reporting the suspected violation.

• The bill prohibits the report from including written medical records except upon the issuance of a court order.

The FVMA delegation visit Representative Charles Wesley ''Chuck'' Clemons (third from right) at his office during FVMA’s 2019 Legislative Action Days.

WWW.FVMA.ORG |

THE FVMA |

@FLORIDAVMA |

@FLORIDA_VMA | 17

HCCE PERMIT INFORMATION UPDATE

By Edwin A. Bayó, Esq., FVMA Legal Counsel The FVMA over the past several months has been working diligently to make sure their members are adequately informed and provided guidance on who needs or does not need a health care clinic establishment (HCCE) permit. The FVMA has been engaging with the Division of Drugs, Devices and Cosmetics (DDC) of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) to provide better guidance and more specific clarifications regarding HCCE permits when it comes to veterinarians and veterinary clinics. The DBPR recently provided us with specific guidance to provide FVMA members, along with veterinarians across the state of Florida, regarding HCCE permits.

Existing law states that individual practitioners (licensed veterinarians) may order prescription drugs with their veterinarian license and pay for prescription drugs in their own name without an HCCE permit. This is set forth in section 499.01(2)(r), Fla. Stat., which provides that an HCCE permit is only required when a business “at one general physical location” provides health care or veterinary services. However, when the veterinarian purchases (or pays) for drugs in his/her corporate capacity then the corporation (business) may be deemed to be the purchaser and thus need the HCCE permit.

After considerable discussion, the DDC has agreed that it will exercise enforcement discretion in some situations. Solo practitioners who are practicing as a professional association or a professional limited liability corporation may purchase prescription drugs with their veterinary license and pay for the prescription drugs with their professional association or professional limited liability corporation funds. This is perhaps the biggest compromise we were able to achieve. In the case of individual practitioners, they can purchase drugs and pay with a corporate check. We were able to convince the DDC that individual practitioners who have their own corporation to run the practice do not have to obtain the HCCE permit.

Mobile veterinary clinics cannot obtain an HCCE permit unless they have a permanent location that is not a personal residence.

An HCCE permit cannot be issued to a residence. If the mobile veterinary clinic is a business entity, it may pay for the prescription drug with business entity funds as long as the wholesale distributor confirms with the purchaser that the prescription drugs are being ordered by a Florida licensed veterinarian and that the veterinarian is operating a mobile veterinary clinic or has a solely mobile practice. This is existing law and was a problem because DDC rules state that you cannot have an HCCE permit at a residence. Those veterinarians with mobile practices need to send a letter to their wholesalers stating that they only operate as a mobile clinic/practice.

18 | FVMA ADVOCATE

A veterinarian operating as a “house call” veterinarian through a general business entity may order prescription drugs as long as the wholesale distributor confirms the veterinarian is a Florida licensed veterinarian and confirms the veterinarian is only operating as a “house call” veterinarian. The house call veterinarian may pay for the prescription drugs with business entity funds. This is existing law and, like mobile clinics, was a problem because DDC rules state that you cannot have an HCCE permit at a residence. Those veterinarians with “house call” practices need to send a letter to their wholesalers stating that they only operate as a “house call”/practice.

Veterinarians who operate in a group practice that have a physical permanent location where they provide veterinary services must obtain an HCCE permit for that location. However, the DDC will exercise enforcement discretion regarding the requirements in Rule Chapter 61N-1, F.A.C. so long as the veterinary establishment has satisfactory inspections under Rule 61G18-15.005, F.A.C. and all drugs are stored in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements. This is the most reasonable interpretation of existing law. We have clarified/agreed that the DDC will not enforce the 61N-1 requirements dealing with security, temperature monitoring, record keeping, policies and procedures, etc. so long as the clinics have satisfactory Board of Veterinary Medicine inspections and they are storing drugs according to manufacturer’s requirements (i.e. refrigerated or “store in a cool dry place”).

Regardless of whether they have a mobile practice or a permanent location, veterinarians may receive delivery of veterinary prescription drugs at any locations where they need veterinary prescription drugs in order to provide services. As to agricultural, equine (e.g. a stable or racetrack), farm or similar veterinarian services where the veterinarian practices at various locations, the wholesale distributor who receives an order for veterinary prescription drugs from a Florida licensed veterinarian may have the veterinary prescription drugs shipped to the farm or other temporary practice location in care of the veterinarian and the farm, stable or racetrack. The veterinarian must have a current Florida license. The veterinarian must advise the wholesale distributor in writing that the farm is a valid practice address in which he/she treats animals. The wholesale distributor must maintain a copy of the veterinarian’s letter in the wholesale distributor’s business records and produce the letter when requested by the DDC. The veterinarian must make payment for the veterinary prescription drugs. This discretion will not apply to human-labeled drugs or controlled substances. In other words, human-labeled drugs or controlled substances may not be drop shipped to a farm, stable or racetrack. This last one is an excellent clarification. Veterinarians can have veterinary drugs drop-shipped to the stable/farm/racetrack so long as they are veterinary drugs (not human labeled or controlled substances).

Finally regarding the HCCE survey, the FVMA has received assurances that nobody has been inspected or disciplined because they did not send the survey. The last mail-out was completed. Veterinarians applying for new HCCE permits may receive one of these as part of the process. The answers to questions 7, 8, 23, 24, 26 and 57-62 should either be “N/A” or left blank.

In conclusion, the clarifications above represent a reasonable compromise between what the law APPEARS to require (or could be reasonably interpreted to require) and the longstanding authority of veterinarians to order, administer and dispense prescription drugs.

IMPORTANT BULLET POINTS • No veterinarian has been inspected or disciplined because they did not send back the Health Care Clinic Self Inspection Survey.  The last Health Care Clinic Self Inspection Survey mail-out has just been completed, and veterinarians applying for new HCCE permits may receive one of the surveys as part of the process.  The answers to questions 7, 8, 23, 24, 26 and 57-62 should either be “N/A” or left in blank.

• In the case of individual practitioners, they can purchase drugs and pay with a corporate check. The FVMA was able to persuade the DDC that INDIVIDUAL PRACTITIONERS who have their own corporation to run the practice DO NOT have to obtain the HCCE permit.

• The section regarding mobile veterinary clinics and "house-call" veterinarians is a part of a law that already exists, which caused a problem because DDC rules state that you cannot have an HCCE permit at a residence.

Thus so, those veterinarians with mobile practices or are "house-call" veterinarians need to send a letter to their wholesalers stating that they ONLY operate as such.

• The FVMA was able to have the DBPR clarify/agree that they WILL NOT enforce the 61N-1 requirements dealing with security, temperature monitoring, record keeping, policies and procedures, etc., so as long as the clinics have satisfactory Board of Veterinary Medicine inspections and are storing drugs according to the manufacturer’s requirements (i.e. refrigerated or “store in a cool dry place”).

• Veterinarians CAN have veterinary drugs drop shipped to the stable/farm/racetrack so as long as they are veterinary drugs (not human-labeled drugs or controlled substances).

2019 HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS The devastating 2018 hurricane season was yet another reminder of the need to take necessary precautions to prepare for a storm that may hit the State of Florida. Hurricane Michael is the strongest storm on record to hit the Florida Panhandle and the third most intense hurricane to make landfall in the continental United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The hurricane left many in the Panhandle with overwhelming damage to their homes and businesses. Hurricane Florence also caused catastrophic flooding in portions of the Carolinas.

For the fourth year in a row, 2018 brought a storm that formed before the official start of the season with Tropical Storm Alberto being named on May 25. A record seven named storms were classified as subtropical at some point. The previous record of five subtropical storms last occurred in 1969. All subtropical storms this season eventually transitioned into tropical storms, with three eventually becoming hurricanes.

Source: NOAA

On average, there are 12 named storms a season with an average of six storms that become hurricanes and three of those becoming a major storm (category three or above). Hurricane season began on June 1, and the NOAA predicts a 70 percent chance that the 2019 season will be near or above normal. NOAA also predicts

20  |  FVMA ADVOCATE

that there will be nine to 15 named storms, where four to eight of those becoming hurricanes.

Hurricanes not only cause destruction, but they can place many of our animals in dire situations. In 2018, many veterinarians made sacrifices and assisted these animals in their times of need, while some were unable to because of damages to their practices from the hurricane. As many are still recovering from the effects of 2018, the FVMA Disaster Preparedness Committee encourages members to look back on the lessons learned from past seasons and ensure you have a plan in place to be better prepared this year. Preparation and planning are essential for keeping your practice in business in the aftermath of a disaster.

Included in this article, we have compiled a preparation checklist for veterinarians.

Additionally, the FVMA Foundation still has funds available to any members who are still in need of resources after Hurricane Michael. The FVMA Foundation Disaster Relief Fund is currently able to provide financial assistance to those individuals through reimbursement grants. If you would like to request the relief funds, please visit www.fvma.org/disaster-relief to view the requirements and application.

Don’t forget to encourage staff to be prepared at home so they can better help you in a disaster. Firstaid training for employees in each work shift in the practice is essential.

ARE YOU PREPARED? 1) Determine your risk. Find out what hazards may affect you where you practice.

2) Develop an evacuation plan if you operate or live in a storm surge hurricane evacuation zone.

3) Secure your insurance by making sure you are properly covered. Speak to your agent.

4) Have your completed hurricane plan handy for yourself and your staff.

DISASTER PLAN

A disaster preparedness plan is important. Veterinarians should have a written disaster preparedness plan in place for their veterinary practices. It should be readily available and executable in the event of a hurricane. The following seven basic parts are necessary in a master disaster preparedness plan for a veterinary practice/clinic: • Emergency relocation of animals • Medical record backup • Continuity of operations • Security • General emergency planning • Fire prevention • Insurance and legal issues

EMERGENCY RELOCATION OF BOARDED AND HOSPITALIZED ANIMALS This includes leashes, carriers and other species-specific supplies. Be sure to plan for appropriate, pre-arranged animal transportation and a temporary animal holding location.

Include a 24-hour client contact list which should be appropriately stored to enable off-site access. In conjunction with legal counsel, veterinarians should involve staff and clients in their planning.

MEDICAL RECORD BACKUP

Medical records should be backed up on an off-site computer.

Keep off-site copies of important documents and consider digitally storing documents as a backup.

CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS

Communication is vital during and after a disaster. In a hurricane and the days directly following, there is a high possibility of power supply interruption for indeterminate periods. An alternate electrical power source is important.

Staff should be trained in the maintenance and operation of generators, and plenty of fuel should be stored. Compile a list of supplies with current 24-hour contact information for suppliers working throughout a disaster, including a five to seven day supply of food and water for staff and patients, and five to seven days of personal medications for staff.

WWW.FVMA.ORG |

SECURITY OF BUILDING AND PERSONNEL

The local fire department can provide free inspection and evacuation drills. It is important to outline preferred means of reporting emergencies and the main point of contact.

Establish an office phone tree, pre-arranged conference call capability and off-site meeting location for staff. Secure your practice from crime, such as theft and looting. Contact your local municipality for specific requirements.

GENERAL EMERGENCY PLANNING

This plan should address appropriate responses to all foreseeable emergencies including hazardous chemical spills. Employee training is important here because there is a need for information and the proper equipment required to respond to the disaster. Florida occupational safety agencies can ensure full compliance of both federal and state regulations. Each county’s extension service has information on responding to chemical disasters that is provided to that group by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

FIRE PREVENTION

Identify major fire hazards in the workplace, proper handling and storage procedures, potential ignition sources such as open flames and electrical sparks, and the type of fire protection equipment necessary to control each major hazard. Regular maintenance of safeguards installed on heat-producing equipment is essential. Appoint employees responsible for maintaining equipment to present or control sources of ignition or fires.

INSURANCE COVERAGE AND LEGAL ISSUES

A current and comprehensive insurance policy is necessary for the veterinary practice. Discuss the details of a disaster drill with legal counsel to make sure you are covered by insurance for any injuries that might occur during the drill.

FVMA Disaster Preparedness Committee urges members to create a disaster preparedness plan for their veterinary practices. The State Emergency Response Team (SERT) website, sponsored by the state of Florida, offers more useful information to assist in the preparation of a comprehensive plan.

For more information, visit www.floridadisaster.org.

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@FLORIDA_VMA | 21

ORTHOTICS & PROSTHETICS:

IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF PETS' LIVES

By Samantha Rosenthal | FVMA director of communications & public relations The use of orthotics and prosthetics in veterinary medicine has started to gain more attention by clinicians and academics alike. Companies across the US have sprung up and partnered with veterinary professionals in creating devices that enable and improve the quality of life for animals with disabilities, while gaining interest among the general public as well. While orthotics and prosthetics have been around for a while, the knowledge on the uses, advantages and developments in this field is still relatively new even for seasoned veterinarians.

For a while, the notion has been, and also taught in veterinary school, that for many instances of lameness, trauma or injury, the animal should be euthanized. Over the past several decades, there has been a shift in focus to not writing these animals off but instead looking to extend their lifespan, provide a device that the animal can use with comfort and decrease the level of distress in the animal.

“There’s been a huge social change on how people treat their animals,” says Derrick Campana, CPO, who is the founder of Animal Ortho Care and Bionic Pets along with being featured on an Animal Planet TV series. “When I first started 15 years ago, dogs were being put down for common injuries and now people treat them as family members that they are willing to do almost anything for. There’s also a huge transition with the veterinarians and veterinary community where it was such an odd thing at first, but now you go to a conference and you’ll see three to four lectures on mobility devices, specifically orthotics and prosthetics.”

The FVMA spoke with some of the leading experts in the field of animal orthotics and prosthetics to discuss the development of these devices. This helpful information can be used as a tool to allow FVMA members to better approach what to do when they’re presented with a patient that either has a disability or already has a prosthetic — allowing for veterinary care to be provided no matter the patient.

The Development and Uses of Animal Orthotics and Prosthetics The use of orthotics and prosthetics in animals has been around for decades. The intent has always stayed the same, yet technology has improved regarding the types of materials that have been used to allow for more comfortable prosthetic devices with a better range of motion for the animal. Many concepts have translated from the human side of prosthetics, including fabrication techniques. Over the past decade, the materials available to make animal prosthetics has expanded.

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Petsthetics, LLC, founder Peter DiPaolo with Jordy and his rear leg prosthesis. – Photo credit: Peter DiPaolo When it comes to assistive devices, neonatal injuries and trauma are two of the most common reasons for amputation.

Veterinarians are often the first line of defense, reviewing an array of factors to determine if the animal is a candidate for a prosthetic limb. Contributing factors include the age of the animal, its size, where the prosthetic is being applied, skin mobility, and the consideration of any orthopedic problems that can affect the range of motion and nearby joints long term.

One challenge when building an orthosis or prosthesis for an animal is that there isn’t a “standard” way to go about building it. Because animal species widely vary, the bodily mechanics are different for a horse as opposed to a dog. While different in build, orthotics and prosthetics in animals has borrowed many aspects from the human side.

Peter DiPaolo, CPO, LPO, who is the founder of Petsthetics, LLC, works full time for Hanger Clinic as a human orthotist and prosthetist. He started working on animal prosthetics four years ago and established Petsthetics as his side project that he is extremely passionate about. Because the specialized needs for each animal is different, he often goes to the veterinary clinics or hospitals and does the fittings personally, which provides a personal touch. His ability to be mobile and go to the client’s location provides a concierge-like service when it comes to fitting a brace or limb.

“When it comes down to the design of the brace, I always use the experience I have from the human side,” DiPaolo says. “I use the same biomechanics and physics that I apply to humans to

In June 2018, Campana was featured on Animal Planet’s new TV series “Dodo Heroes” for working with Jabu, a bull elephant in Botswana whom he built an orthotic for. In addition to this, he has experience working across a wide range of species — from dogs, like Chi Chi, to birds to even a fox. Their environments and even personalities differ so greatly, and that can be challenging. While creating the brace is a challenge, a bigger challenge is having the animal accept the device and relearn how to move with it.

Providing Comfort and Pain Relief Chi Chi was a certified therapy dog. With the help of protheses designed by Derrick Campana’s Bionic Pets, she shared her love and brought comfort and inspiration to people of all ages in hospitals, schools, rehab facilities and senior living centers.

– Photo credit: Bob Fugate, rqfphoto.com animals. The only difference is that you have different shapes and sizes. A dog has a femur like a human does; however, their feet are different in shape and size so you have to take all those factors into consideration.”

The goal, no matter the animal, is to develop a device that will extend their lifespan with a high level of welfare as opposed to adding any additional problems. More often than not, animals can lose a limb or part of it and still function well. When reviewing a patient to see if they’re a good candidate for a prosthetic, other issues need to be considered, such as the location of the lost limb and if that will result in a breakdown of other nearby tissues of the body.

Dr. Michael Walsh, who is a clinical associate professor of aquatic animal health at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, was the veterinarian who was a part of the team that aided in building the prosthetic fin for Winter the dolphin at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. While many know of the success of the prosthetic device due to the popular book and movie “Dolphin Tale,” the process and development of the prosthetic fin took time, as team members needed to mindfully address all of the issues that could occur.

When it comes to prosthetics and orthotics for animals, a big part of the process is getting the animal to realize that the assistive device is helping them. They also must like it and learn to want to use it. It’s easier to explain to a human that it’s something that you want them to use as a tool and is a positive thing, making sure they react to it in a good way.

Ronnie Graves, who himself has been an amputee since he was 20 years old, has been working in prosthetics for almost 40 years, specializing in large animal prosthetics for the last 20 years.

Graves’ company — Veterinary Inclusive Prosthetics/Orthotics — fills a gap in the field because there are only a handful of individuals or companies that do prosthetics and orthotics for large animals.

Graves describes how the process of the animal relearning how to move with a prosthetic or orthotic needs to be taken in steps, along with ensuring that both the prosthetist and veterinarian make sure the owner is following a fitting schedule that is specific for that animal.

“The most challenging part is not in creating the device — and that is a challenge, believe me — but educating the owner and determining in advance whether they’re going to be compliant,”

While a variety of companies submitted proposals to build the prosthetic, some of the proposals were logical but not realistic. Dr. Walsh’s job involved working with Clearwater Marine Aquarium CEO David Yates to explore every possibility to ensure this was achieved. The goal was to not cause more damage and to provide a fin that could augment Winter’s movement. This demonstrates the need for a strong working relationship between the prosthetic design team and the veterinarian, along with any other entities involved.

Campana mentions how 80 percent of the time, he doesn’t even see the patient. His team has developed a system where they are able to send out casting kits. This allows owners or veterinarians to cast their patients, ship the casts to them, and then he can build the prosthetic and treat them from a far. Because of this, it is important for the veterinarian to discuss with the client the best options and needs of the patient.

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Jingles had a full-limb amputation due to cancer. This is a veststyle, full-limb prosthesis to accommodate for the amputation.

– Photo courtesy of Bionic Pets THE FVMA |

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23

Dr. Walsh also says there are many different ways to look at pain, depending on the patient and what its needs are. There’s pain that causes the animal to be dysfunctional to where it can’t ambulate because of discomfort related to what’s happened. There’s also the type of pain that can manifest as part of a long-term chronic relationship as another appendage — like the other leg on a biped — starts to breakdown from eventual arthritis development. Dr. Walsh says that while the owner and veterinarian need to be ready for things like musculoskeletal change over time, the goal for the prosthetist or orthotist working with the patient is to design a system to avoid those long-term problems. Luckily, there have been many strides in this field, along with a positive outlook for the future of orthotics and prosthetics.

The Future of Orthotics and Prosthetics Veterinary Inclusive Prosthetics/Orthotics Owner Ronnie Graves with his three-legged donkey patient Luigi. A congenital birth defect left Luigi born without his left front leg. Graves helped build a prosthetic limb for him. – Photo credit: Ronnie Graves Graves says. “There’s a rigorous fitting schedule that I’ve developed. With a human, I can sit down with that person and I can explain to them ‘Look, you’re going to put this artificial leg or brace on and in about two hours, your leg is going to get tired and sore. You’re going to need to take it off and give it a rest.’ But you can’t tell that to a horse, cow or donkey.

“I have to educate the owners that even though your horse looks like it’s having a lot of fun, it’s helping and they’re getting around great, you have to go on a specific timetable — two hours on and two hours off — for the first seven days and don’t let them wear it at night. Gradually, you increase that wear time.”

Graves says that losing his leg, combined with his lifelong love for animals, allows him to understand and provide compassion for the animals he works with. It also allows him to better explain to the owners how the animal might be feeling, providing a more personal way to connect with his clients.

He also talks about how one of the biggest goals of prosthetics and orthotics is these devices relieve distress the animal is feeling.

Like Campana, a lot of his work is done long distance where he doesn’t get to meet or see the patient. Because of this, he will often request that the owner or veterinarian provide X-rays, video and/ or photographs of the animal both before, during and after the fitting stages. This allows for Graves to see if the device is doing its job properly and working with rather than against the animal’s body mechanics.

“When you put a brace or a leg on, the anatomy is going to change over time,” Graves says. “If they keep me updated, I can make recommendations on something as simple as putting another sock onto the leg to make up for weight loss or volume change in their leg because we’re compressing it from the outside.”

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In recent years, there have been many advancements for the field of animal prosthetics and orthotics, including 3D printing and the development of more malleable materials used to build assistive devices.

While new technologies are becoming available, this doesn’t necessarily mean it will be a good fit for your patient just because it’s new. DiPaolo says one of the disadvantages is how sometimes people want to jump to try something new when it hasn’t really been tested. Just because an assistive device is developed, that doesn’t mean it is going to necessarily work for that patient.

This is where more research is necessary to see the longterm benefits of these devices on different species and having quantitative data to guide product development. Many companies are working with academics, prosthetists/orthotists and teaching hospitals to collect data to publish white papers. DiPaolo says another crucial component is social media. It has been a key player in exposure by getting the word out and educating people.

Another major milestone has been the shift in how veterinary medicine has viewed animals with disabilities, where many institutions — like Cornell University and University of Tennessee — are now emphasizing option-based thinking. Many of these universities are now promoting the use of prosthetics and orthotics in animals with disabilities.

“When you think about it, that’s a major milestone,” Graves say.

“We’re starting to change opinion, yet we still got a long way to go in that arena. The young veterinarians are coming along and graduating, and they’re really open to these ideas.”

Whether it’s Graves who is building a brace for a lame horse or DiPaolo who is building a prosthetic for a dog, it is evident that the use of prosthetics and orthotics is becoming a more viable option for many animals to hopefully extend and improve their quality of life — for both the pet and its owner.

“Seeing the reaction of a pet that has regained mobility or has started to walk maybe for the first time in their life, that’s probably the most exciting thing,” Campana says. “Just the reaction of the owner, a lot of them will break down and cry because they’re so happy that they’ve gotten their family member back.” | 24

FVMA awards two scholarships at UF CVM White Coat Ceremony FVMA scholarships awarded to Kelly Flanagan and Joshua Hargrove (Photos courtesy of Matt Stamey Photo)

The FVMA presented two Sophomore Champion of Veterinary Medicine scholarships to students Kelly Flanagan and Joshua Hargrove on May 10, 2019, during the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine’s Professional Coating Ceremony. Each student received a $1,500 check, along with a commemorative plaque, which were presented by FVMA President-elect Dr. Mary Smart.

This year, 108 sophomores were coated during the ceremony, each presented with a professional white clinic lab coat at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Florida. The FVMA also gave each student FVMA-branded scrubs as a congratulatory gift from the Association for having successfully completed their pre-clinical training.

Dr. Mary Smart (L) presents Kelly Flanagan (R) with the Sophomore Champion of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship.

Dr. Mary Smart (R) presents Josh Hargrove (L) with the Sophomore Champion of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship.

UF CVM Sophmore Class of 2020

Dr. Caryn Plummer honored with UF CVM Clinical Investigator Award Caryn E. Plummer, DVM, DACVO received the UF CVM FVMA Clinical Investigator Award during UF CVM’s annual College Research Day and Phi Zeta celebration on April 12, 2019.

During the ceremony, the FVMA presented Dr. Plummer with a plaque and a $500 check.

The award is given annually to a UF CVM faculty member

who has made outstanding contributions to the advancement of clinical knowledge in veterinary medicine. Dr. Plummer has contributed greatly to three main areas of veterinary clinical research: corneal healing, drug delivery to the eye and glaucoma. She has contributed to the wealth of veterinary clinical knowledge through her research efforts, which include conference proceedings, seminars, scientific presentations and

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grant research. She has more than 80 published, peer-reviewed articles and has contributed to more than 30 book chapters.

Dr. Plummer is a tenured associate professor of comparative ophthalmology at UF CVM. She achieved Master Mentor designation in June 2017 for the UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute Training and Professional Development Program’s Mentor Academy. She was also named one of UF Academy’s Emerging Leaders for 2017-2018. Dr. Plummer has also received numerous awards and scholarships, including the 2017-2018 UF Term Professorship Award in August 2017 and the 2015 University of Florida Superior Accomplishment Award, Division 5. Many of her research mentees have also received awards while under her guidance and mentoring.

She is currently the secretary/treasurer for the International Equine Ophthalmology Consortium; the chair for the American Board of Veterinary Ophthalmology’s (ABVO) Maintenance of Certification Committee; a member of both the ABVO’s Vision of Animal Foundation Auction and Examination committees; UF Faculty Council Chair for 2018-2019; a member of UF’s Residency Committee; and a part of Yale University’s Alumni Schools Committee since 2002.

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Dr. Iske Larkin (R) presents Dr. Caryn Plummer (L) with the FVMA’s Clinical Investigator Award during the 2019 Phi Zeta Day activities at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine on April 12, 2019. (Photo by Jesse Jones)

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PRACTICE GOT A QUESTION? THE FVMA CAN HELP. One of the benefits of membership in the FVMA is our Helpline, 800.992.3862, available to members daily, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Our Helpline also provides insight to the FVMA staff, of the challenges and concerns of our members.

In this feature we will highlight topics from the questions we received in preceding weeks, in an effort to keep our members up-to-date on current concerns as well as regulatory and legislative changes.

QUESTION:

I recently had a person bring their Great Dane in straight from the emergency clinic to treat for bloat. They were brand new clients we had never seen before. The dog died intra-op. The owners requested private cremation but left without paying anything toward their balance due.

Multiple attempts to reach them have failed. Last week, they hung up on us when we called them to pay their bill and pick up their pet. Now they have blocked all of our numbers and we cannot reach them.

Not only do we have a substantial bill that was never paid, but we have their deceased dog in our freezer. I am hoping to get information on how to proceed legally. What do we do with the body? I know our options regarding the bill.

A: This is an abandonment case. The owners should be notified of their

abandonment status by letter, after which the carcass can be turned over to a county agency for burial. The statute on abandonment is below: Chapter 705 LOST OR ABANDONED PROPERTY 705.19 Abandonment of animals by owner; procedure for handling.

(1) Any animal placed in the custody of a licensed veterinarian or bona fide boarding kennel for treatment, boarding, or other care, which shall be abandoned by its owner or the owner’s agent for a period of more than 10 days after written notice is given to the owner or the owner’s agent at her or his last known address may be turned over to the custody of the nearest humane society or dog pound in the area for disposal as such custodian may deem proper.

(2) The giving of notice to the owner, or the agent of the owner, of such animal by the licensed veterinarian or kennel operator as provided in subsection (1) shall relieve the veterinarian or kennel operator and any custodian to whom such animal may be given of any further liability for disposal. Such procedure by a licensed veterinarian shall not constitute grounds for disciplinary procedure under chapter 474.

(3) For the purpose of this section, the term “abandonment” means to forsake entirely or to neglect or refuse to provide or perform the legal obligations for care and support of an animal by its owner or the owner’s agent. Such abandonment shall constitute the relinquishment of all rights and claim by the owner to such animal.

History.—ss. 1, 2, ch. 79-228; ss. 1, 2, ch. 81-157; s. 3, ch. 81-318; s. 792, ch. 97-102

QUESTION:

I recently attended a conference where a company exhibiting stated in a lecture that the farm bill that passed last year made it legal for us to

28 | FVMA ADVOCATE

dispense their product – an all-natural hemp treat supplement. They stated that as long as a product contains less than .3% THC, it drops from schedule I to schedule V. Is this correct information? Can we legally purchase this item and stock it on our shelves and sell it to clients?

A: The FVMA’s position statement adopted in 2017 regarding the application of medical marijuana in veterinary practice has not changed. However, the CBD issue today is not clear cut.

There is a lot of confusing information about CBD. The link below is the best explanation we have found to date. The farm bill did not make all CBD products legal. The farm bill did provide that CBD products produced in accordance with the requirements contained in the bill are legal. These CBD-conforming products are not controlled substances.

They can be purchased and sold to clients without the need for a DEA registration.

It is the opinion of legal counsel that veterinarians that procure CBD products from established, reputable sources are entitled to assume that such products have been produced in accordance with the requirements contained in the farm bill and are, thus, legal. It is my opinion that veterinarians are entitled to rely on the fact that the federal regulators have not taken action against these companies that are openly advertising and offering such products to the veterinary community, at least until such time that federal regulators take adverse action. https://www.brookings.edu/blog/fixgov/2018/12/14/the-farm-bill-hempand-cbd-explainer/

QUESTION:

After seeing a client’s pet with an injury, another party made a report to animal services of suspected abuse. Officers are now wanting the doctor who tended to the animal when it was brought to the clinic to speak to them about the animal. Client confidentiality is our biggest concern, and we would like to know if we are or are not able to speak with the officers regarding this issue?

A: The rules on confidentiality must prevail in this instance. Patient records are confidential and may only be shared without the client’s consent if they are subpoenaed by a court or if they are required by the Board of Veterinary Medicine. The related portion of the regulation is below: 61G18-18.002 Maintenance of Medical Records.

5) A veterinarian shall maintain confidentiality of all patient records in his/her possession or under his/her control. All patient records shall not

be disclosed without the consent of the client. Appropriate disclosure may be made without such consent: (a) in any civil or criminal action, unless otherwise prohibited by law, upon the issuance of a subpoena from a court of competent jurisdiction and proper notice by the party seeking such records to the client or his/ her legal representative; (b) when required by the Board's rules.

(6) A veterinarian shall, upon a written request, furnish, in a timely manner without delays for legal reviews, a true and correct copy of all of the patient records to the client, or to anyone designated by the client. Such records release shall not be conditioned upon payment of a fee for services rendered, except for the reasonable cost of duplication.

QUESTION:

Could you let me know if animal acupressure is allowed in Florida by a non-veterinarian? It's something I do here in California and am looking for where this is also possible.

A: The two rules listed below are about alternative veterinary medicine, which includes acupressure:

61G18-19.002 Complementary or Alternative Veterinary Medicine.

(1) Definition – Complementary, alternative and integrative therapies means a heterogenous group of preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic philosophies and practices, which at the time they are performed may differ from current scientific knowledge, or whose theoretical basis and techniques may diverge from veterinary medicine routinely taught in accredited veterinary medical colleges, or both. These therapies include, but are not limited to, veterinary acupuncture, acutherapy and acupressure, veterinary homeopathy, veterinary manual or manipulative therapy (i.e., therapies based on techniques practiced in osteopathy, chiropractic medicine, or physical medicine and therapy); veterinary nutraceutical therapy and veterinary physiotherapy.

(2) Communication of treatment alternatives – A licensed veterinarian who offers to provide a patient with complementary or alternative health care treatment must inform the owner of the patient of the nature of the treatment and must explain the benefits and risks associated with the treatment to the extent necessary for the owner to make an informed and prudent decision regarding such treatment option. In compliance with this subsection: (a) The licensed veterinarian must inform the owner of his or her education, experience and credentials in relation to veterinary complementary or alternative health care treatment option. (b) The licensed veterinarian may, in his or her discretion, communicate the information orally or in written form directly to the owner or to the owner’s legal representative. (c) The licensed veterinarian may, in his or her discretion and without restriction, recommend any mode of treatment that is, in his or her judgment, in the best interests of the patient, including complementary or alternative health care treatments, in accordance with the provisions of his or her license.

(3) Records – Every licensed veterinarian providing a patient with a complementary or alternative health care treatment must indicate

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in the patient’s record the method by which the requirements of subsection (2) were met.

(4) Effect – This section does not modify or change the scope of practice of any licensed veterinarian, nor does it alter in any way the provisions of Chapter 474, F.S., which require licensees to practice within standards of care, and which prohibit fraud and exploitation of clients.

61G18-17.005 Tasks Requiring Immediate Supervision.

(1) All tasks which may be delegated to a veterinary aide, nurse, laboratory technician, intern, or other employee of a licensed veterinarian shall be performed only under the “immediate supervision” of a licensed veterinarian as that phrase is defined in subsection 474.202(5), F.S., with the exception of the following tasks which may be performed without the licensed veterinarian on the premises: (a) The administration of medication and treatment, excluding vaccinations, as directed by the licensed veterinarian; and (b) The obtaining of samples and the performance of those diagnostic tests, including radiographs, directed by the licensed veterinarian.

(2) The administration of anesthesia and tranquilization by a veterinary aide, nurse, laboratory technician, intern, or other employee of a licensed veterinarian requires “immediate supervision” as that phrase is defined in subsection 474.202(5), F.S. (3) The administration of any vaccination by a veterinary aide, nurse, technician, intern or other employee of a licensed veterinarian which is not specifically prohibited by Rule 61G18-17.006, F.A.C., requires “immediate supervision” as that phrase is defined in subsection 474.202(5), F.S. Acupuncture is listed in the complementary or alternative vet med rule. There is no rule that lists which tasks cannot be delegated.

Instead, there is a rule on tasks which require immediate supervision, and it basically states that everything must be under immediate supervision except for (a) and (b) in the rule. (hh) Delegating professional responsibilities to a person when the licensee delegating such responsibilities knows or has reason to know that such person is not qualified by training, experience, or licensure to perform them.

Interpreting all these various rules and statute together leads me to conclude that a veterinarian can delegate complementary or alternative veterinary medicine (acupuncture) to a person that is properly qualified by either training, experience or licensure. The vet is responsible for following 61G18-19.002 to the best extent possible (i.e. communicate and explain the nature of the treatment, benefits and risks, and the education experience and credentials of the person performing the treatment). It should preferably be done in writing and a notation made in the patient record. The treatment can be performed under indirect supervision.

END NOTE: The ultimate responsibility in the practice of veterinary medicine lies with the licensed veterinarian.

Professional discretion must always be exercised.

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

VETERINARIANS WANTED

ASSOCIATE NEEDED – SPRING HILL, FL: Associate needed for a 4-Doctor practice in Spring Hill, FL. We are located approximately 35 miles to Tampa and a few miles to the Gulf. Our 5500 sq ft Hospital is fully equipped with complete Idexx & Diagnostic Laboratory, Idexx Sedi-vue, C&S Capabilities, Ultrasound and Digital Radiography.

For those who love surgery, there is a beautiful surgery suite with private entrance and exam room. We provide a very positive work environment and have a great loyal client/patient base.We offer a competitive salary, retirement plan, paid vacation and sick days, health insurance, dental and life insurance. Continuing education and license fees paid. The work week is 40 hours and no after hour emergencies.

We encourage you to check out our website and facebook. Please email your resume to swempe@tampabay.rr.com or fax to 352-797-9975.

Website address is www.springhillanimalclinic.net (2/19: ID#26973) VETERINARIAN WANTED – NAPLES, FL: Associate Veterinarian Job Description: We are currently seeking a full-time DVM to join our busy practice in sunny Southwest Florida. Our office is centrally located in Naples, close to the beautiful Gulf beaches. We are a 1.5 doctor full-service practice with a demand for expansion. Our new state-of-the-art facility offers the traditional Western medicine approach including wellness, pain management, laser therapy, surgery, dental, digital radiography, and diagnostics with a full- in-house laboratory. We also offer an Eastern integrative approach including acupuncture, electro-stimulation, food therapy, and Chinese herbals. We offer competitive compensation, PTO, CE, and discounted services. Salary is based on the level of expertise.

Experience is requested, but willing to hire an ambitious graduate who is ready to learn and grow with our busy practice! Please contact Tonya Brown at (239) 455-8166 or email resume to tmax027@aol.com.(2/19; ID#9238) VETERINARIAN WANTED – LAKELAND, FL: All Creatures Animal Clinic, located in Lakeland, Florida, believes in providing excellent patient care in a family friendly work environment. We are a busy 5 doctor AAHA accredited and certified feline friendly hospital seeking to add another full time associated. Our well-equipped facility has digital radiographs, ultrasound, endoscopy, and a state of the art surgery suite. We also offer hydrotherapy, cold laser, chiropractic treatment, and acupuncture. Salary commensurate with experience. We offer excellent team support, a good work life balance, competitive wages and excellent benefits which include CE allowance, 401k, and health insurance. Submit your resume to kara@allcreaturesfl.com (2/19; ID#406) VETERINARIAN WANTED – BRADENTON, FL: People are our most important asset: veterinarians, staff & clients celebrating their love of pets. We are searching diligently for the exceptional, energetic, compassionate, team-oriented SA associate with excellent communication skills to come grow with us! Our practice is 70 years old and growing! Our new 7,000 sq.-ft facility houses our fast-paced hospital with a practice of excellence philosophy. Digital radiology, digital dental radiology, separate surgical and dental suites, ultrasound, radio surgery, high-speed dental equipment, therapy laser, acupuncture, herbal medicine, Med Rx, chemistry, CBC, pulse oximetery, EKG, blood pressure monitors, CO2, patient warming ...Base plus production pay; health insurance; stipend for CE, license and dues; vacation; health savings account. Contact Jeff Logas, Bradenton Veterinary Hospital, 1324 17th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205 Jeffrey.Logas@BradentonVeterinary.com 941.746.2252 (2/19; ID#10809) VETERINARIAN WANTED – LAKELAND, FL: SPCA Florida is seeking DVMs who want to make a positive difference at our McClurg Animal Medical Center, a progressive, professional, fast paced 9 doctor, non-profit facility. We are an integrated practice with a diverse caseload including wellness care, general medicine, soft tissue surgery, orthopedic surgery, and dentistry. Doctors are supported with modern equipment such as the latest in-house lab and diagnostics, high speed dental equipment, digital and dental radiology, laser therapy, blood pressure equipment, and ultrasound. We are an EOE/ DFWP. competitive pay with excellent benefits. Make a difference!

Apply on our website: www.spcaflorida.org (2/19; ID#10063) VETERINARIAN WANTED – GULF COAST, FL: The Animal Hospital of Dunedin on the sunny Gulf Coast of Florida is looking for a goal oriented, highly motivated, responsible, and enthusiastic veterinarian excited to provide high-quality veterinary medicine. You are invited to join the staff of a five doctor, progressive, integrative, and high producing practice. The practice offers services provided by a Board-Certified Internists as well as integrative medical approaches. You’ll develop your own clientele while practicing in a group setting. The potential for success in this setting is limitless for a hard-working individual. Compensation depends on experience and motivation to serve your clients’ and patients’ medical care needs.

New graduates with similar goals and ideals will be considered.

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Experience or interest in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine is a plus. All Florida licensed or eligible applicants welcome. Please contact Lesley McKeon at 727-733-9351, or e-mail your information to ahodheadtech@gmail.com. We are looking forward to meeting you!! (2/19; ID#38737) VETERINARIAN WANTED – BOCA RATON, FL: Calusa Veterinary Center is growing and looking to add an experienced Emergency Veterinarian to our team! We are a full-service, AAHA accredited 24 hour GP and ER small animal practice with 10 doctors and a large staff serving our clients in the Boca Raton, FL area for the past 20+ years. We are looking to add a doctor to our team who is an independent, strong, friendly voice that is comfortable only practicing the highest possible standard of care. We would prefer that the applicant will have 3+ years’ experience in emergency medicine. Applicant must have a strong work ethic, have a positive demeanor, be a team player, and a passion for delivering outstanding customer service to pet owners. Must be available for overnight shifts including weekends. Please visit our website at https://careers.vetpartners.com/calusa-veterinary-center/ to review and apply. (2/19; ID#38737) VETERINARIAN WANTED - A PET'S FRIEND ANIMAL HOSPITAL, SOUTHWEST FLORIDA: A Pet's Friend is an award winning small animal practice located in beautiful southwest Florida. We have an excellent reputation in our community and are privileged to serve clients who truly value the human/animal bond. Our support staff is highly skilled and selfmotivating. Practice owner and staff are excited about the opportunity to add an experienced, full or part time, career oriented veterinarian to our team.

Applicants looking for ownership opportunities will be given higher priority.

Competitive compensation and benefits based on experience. Contact William A. Walsh, Jr., DVM at apetsfriendanimalhospital@verizon.net (2/19; ID#5426) VETERINARIAN WANTED – KISSIMMEE, FL: Osceola Animal Emergency is looking for a veterinarian for our growing practice in Kissimmee, Florida. We are open as an emergency practice from 6 to midnight on weekdays, Saturday 2pm to midnight, and all day Sunday 9am until midnight. Weekdays 9 until 6 we are a daytime practice, and also Saturday 9am until 2pm. We have a very well equipped hospital with 4 exam rooms and are fully computerized. Our surgery suite is highly advanced and we perform advanced orthopedic surgeries including TTA and hip replacement. We have digital x-ray, ultrasound, and a Vimago CT machine. We also have cold laser, cryopen, tonopen, full monitoring equipment, an ICU, and isolation area. We prefer a veterinarian who has an interest in surgery since we perform referral surgeries. New graduates will be considered. Salary will be dependent upon experience and motivation. Please provide a resume to Dolphinvet@gmail.com. Call 407-910-4771 and ask to speak to our office manager Joe to set up an interview. (2/19; ID#26792) VETERINARIAN WANTED – THE VILLAGES, FL: Are you interested in joining our team? We are a two-doctor practice looking to add a third. We are located in The Villages, Florida, within an hour of Orlando, Gainesville and the beaches. We are in a rapidly growing area with affluent clientele.

The practice has been open 6 years and is well equipped with 4 exam rooms, digital radiography, dental radiography, therapeutic laser, surgery suite, private office for each doctor and much more. There are three specialty hospitals within driving distance to allow referrals when needed. A traveling board certified radiologist performs our ultrasounds. We offer a fun work environment and focus on providing a quality work-life balance. Please send your resume or CV to SDrum1@hotmail.com. (2/19; ID#5816) VETERINARIAN WANTED – SANFORD, FL: Shelter Veterinarian $74,193.00 - $96,000.00 Annually in Sanford, FL. Performs skilled professional work supervising a specialized group of support staff who check and monitor animals received at the Animal Services Shelter. This is responsible veterinary medical work performing veterinarian services for the Shelter and in the field as necessary. Work involves a broad variety of clinical and laboratory activities, including surgery and public vaccine clinics. The employee in this class exercise medical judgment and skill in the independent performance of their duties for the care and treatment of animals within the shelter or during emergencies. Must have a current Doctoral degree of Veterinarian Medicine (DVM) or Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris (VMD) degree from an accredited college or university and be licensed to practice in the State of Florida prior to starting work. All levels of experience will be considered. Must be inoculated against rabies prior to completion of probationary period. Interested candidate apply here: https:// www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seminolecountyfl/jobs/2231960/veteri narian?page=2&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs (2/19; ID#44978) VETERINARIAN WANTED – KEY LARGO, FL: The Island Hammock Pet Hospital is looking for the right candidate with several years of experience to help us continue to grow and achieve our goals of providing exemplary medicine to our patients and outstanding service to our clients.We are a new, fast growing, three doctor companion animal practice located in Key Largo, Florida. We offer a strong compensation package, an experienced staff

and a rewarding work environment. We operate a new, AAHA accredited, state of the art facility and utilize efficient business practices. You can learn more about us at www.IHPH.net. The fabulous Florida Keys offers some of the best fishing and SCUBA diving available in North America. Island life is a laid back, semi-rural lifestyle. All of the advantages of a large metropolitan area are within a 45 minute drive. If you love the water and sun, the Florida Keys is a great place to live. To learn more about the position, please send your resume to careers@IHPH.net.(2/19; ID#10524)

RELIEF VETERINARIANS

AVAILABLE FOR RELIEF WORK: "Got to get away?" VetRxRelief, 37 years experience small animal Veterinarian. Please call 321-508-3879 or Vetgator@gmail.com.(2/19; ID#2187) PART TIME/RELIEF VETERINARIAN NEEDED - WEEKI WACHEE, FLORIDA: Nature Coast Animal Wellness & Surgical Center is a busy small animal, solo doctor practice, seeking an energetic, confident, part time veterinarian to aid in meeting the needs of our growing practice and clients.

We are a new facility with a well-established clientele that has followed our doctor for 30+ years of practice in our community. Our focus is on quality not quantity—Diagnostics not band-aids. We are a full-service hospital equipped with all new IDEXX diagnostic laboratory and digital radiography with a full in-house pharmacy. We offer diagnostic ultrasound, dental services, CO2 surgical laser, soft tissue & orthopedic surgical services. We provide a relaxed atmosphere with a knowledgeable, helpful staff. No weekends or evenings to allow for a great work life balance. Our practice is in Hernando County Fl, about 35 miles North of Tampa. We offer beautiful rivers for kayaking and are only a few miles from the Gulf of Mexico. There are several hiking/biking trails, beautiful parks, great restaurants and affordable living. We are only 15 miles from the Homosassa Springs & Crystal River area for more opportunities to explore more outdoor activities and great food. Do you want to semi retire or work part time to enjoy life more? Suddenly become corporate and want out? Relief vets welcome to apply. Compensation based on experience. All replies treated with utmost confidence. For consideration, email your resume to: naturecoastemployment@gmail.com. (2/19; ID#9238)

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