Advocate Issue 4 2017

F V M A ADVOCATE ISSUE 4 | 2017

Proud to Honor OUR VETERINARY TECHNICIANS 2018 FVMA LEGISLATIVE AGENDA THE

5 ANNUAL th

Gulf-Atlantic VETERINARY CONFERENCE

PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS OCTOBER 27, 2017 Details on Pages 16-21

President's MESSAGE 7207 Monetary Drive Orlando, Florida 32809 Phone – (407) 851‑3862 Toll Free – (800) 992‑3862 Fax – (407) 240‑3710 info@fvma.org | www.fvma.org

OFFICERS

Dr. Alex M. Steverson President Dr. Marc A. Presnell President-Elect Dr. Donald H. Morgan Treasurer Dr. Richard C. Sutliff Past President Mr. Philip J. Hinkle Executive Director

DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES Dr. Scott Richardson District 1–Big Bend Dr. Julia Conway 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. Mary Smart 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 Ex Officio Dr. James W. Lloyd, Dean UF College of Veterinary Medicine

The staff of the FVMA is a real asset to our organization, and their tireless work after Hurricane Irma’s recent visit to our state is just one example. While much of Florida was not severely damaged by the storm, the Florida Keys and the southwest coast felt the full effect of a major hurricane. The FVMA, the UF College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Flor‑ ida Department of Agriculture have been working together non-stop to assist the veterinarians and the animals of south Florida during the recovery efforts. If that were not enough on their plate, The Naples Grande Beach Resort suffered severe damage and will be closed for the foreseeable future, so the FVMA staff had to search last-minute to find a new host hotel for the FAEP’s 13th Annual Promoting Excellence Symposium. It’s no small feat to change a major conference to a different venue, but they have done it! The Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace at Disney Springs is the new home for this year’s conference and will be a great location for this outstanding event. Rest assured your membership dollars are being well spent on a world-class staff.

I had the privilege of attending the AVMA annual meeting in July, and am happy to report the FVMA is well-respected among other states, and our delegates are extremely involved in the activity of our profession at the national level. There are several issues we have proactively addressed here in Florida that are now becoming national issues, and our experience and insight on these issues have been valuable to share with others across the country.

I also had the opportunity to attend the orientation of the incoming freshman class for the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. It was exciting to visit with these future colleagues; their excitement is contagious! It’s been more than 35 years since I was in their shoes, and I wonder what the profession will look like when this class has been out in practice for three decades. The future of veterinary medicine and what we leave behind for them is in our hands, and I encourage each of us to get involved in the molding of veterinary medicine into what it will be.

Recently, I had conversations with several colleagues about the FVMA, and that honest dialogue reaffirmed that your participation and interaction with the association is equally important to the future of our profession, and will ensure that we continue to be a strong voice for veterinary medicine in Florida.

In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Talk to any member of the executive board or one of the hardworking staff at the office about how you can help.

Respectfully yours,

Alex M. “Steve” Steverson, DVM

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 HAROLD F. ALBERS, DVM, PA

FVMA Life Member Dr. Harold F. Albers, of St. Petersburg, Fla., passed away at age 90, on Sunday, July 16, 2017. Dr. Albers was a life member of the FVMA, who was hon‑ ored in 1989 by the Association with its Veterinarian of the Year Award, and in 1995 when he was presented with the FVMA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Originally from Eagle Grove, Iowa, Dr. Albers served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He studied to become a veteri‑ narian at Colorado State University and was granted an honor‑ ary PhD in Agricultural Economics by Iowa State University.

Dr. Albers relocated to St. Petersburg in 1971, and he estab‑ lished Northeast Animal Hospital there to practice veterinary medicine for 50 years.

He was a pioneer in wildlife treatment and rehabilitation, and authored countless articles about the work he did with seabirds, pelicans, and eagles, and as a veterinary medical consultant on polar bears.

He was extensively involved in community service and was instrumental in establishing the St. Petersburg Audubon Soci‑ ety Teachers Ecology Camp and the Feed the Pelicans Fund; he supported the establishment of the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, the Association of Avian Veterinarians, and the National Wild‑ life Rehabilitators Association. He was also involved with the Rotary Club of St. Petersburg, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve and the International Crane Foundation.

He received numerous awards for his veterinary contri‑ butions, volunteerism, and community and environmental achievements, including being featured on the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Wall of Honor as a Wall and Space Friend.

Dr. Albers is survived by his children, Bryan L. Albers and Elizabeth Albers Rutemeyer, and her husband, William.

ELI GERSTEN, DVM Dr. Eli Gersten, 93, of Miami, Fla., passed away peacefully on May 4, 2017. A retired member of the FVMA, Dr. Gersten was one of the first veterinarians in South Miami when he opened his clinic in 1955.

He graduated from Miami Beach Senior High School in 1941.

He served in the Army Veterinary Corp from 1947-1952. He practiced in the same location, the South Miami Animal Clinic, for 43 years.

Dr. Gersten is survived by his wife Gloria after 68 years of marriage; his daughter, Gwen Witten and her hus‑ band Stuart of Canton, Ga., grandson Jonathan Witten and his wife Dani‑ elle of Tewksbury, Mass.; and two great grandchildren, Benjamin and Connor.

- Continued on Page 4

In This Issue 3 | In Remembrance 5 | National Veterinary Technician Week 2017 6 | Member Spotlight 8 | Call for Nominations for 2018 FVMA Annual Awards 10 | 2018 FVMA Legislative Agenda 14 | Hurricane Irma Update

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The 5th Annual TGAVC Class of 2021 Orientation Radiation Protection in Veterinary Clinics AAHA Releases 2017 Canine Vaccination Guidleines 28 | Practice Pulse 31 | Classified Advertisements

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DEVEGOWDA GOPAL, DVM, MS, PhD Long-time Jacksonville veterinarian, Dr. Devegowda Gopal, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2017, after battling a recurrence of thyroid cancer, which he was first diagnosed with when he was 58. Dr. Gopal was 77 years old, and he will be missed by his devoted family, professional colleagues, and the clients whom he served for 37 years.

Reports say Dr. Gopal continued to attend patients at Gopal Animal Hospital in Jacksonville up until April of this year.

He was a long-standing member of the FVMA and was hon‑ ored by the Association with the FVMA Gold Star award in 2013, for his outstanding service to the profession. He was active in the FVMA’s advocacy program and served on the Advisory Committee for the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Gopal grew up near Bangalore, in Southern India, the son of a cow-herder. He was a soccer star in India before coming to the United States in 1970, to attend graduate school on a schol‑ arship at the University of Georgia (UGA), where he earned a PhD degree. He played soccer at UGA too, while specializ‑ ing in large-animal veterinary medicine. He also taught and did research at the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Gopal is survived by his wife of 46 years, Geetha; son Dr. Vikram Gopal and his wife Dr. Suma Gopal, his granddaugh‑ ters Maya and Asha; daughter Dr. Lakshmi Gopal and her hus‑ band Dr. Ned Clark, granddaughter Leela, grandson Krishna; his brother's family Mr. and Mrs. Ramanujam Devegowda, and their daughter Hamsa.

JOHN R. STEELE, DVM The international sport horse community lost one of its leg‑ ends, Dr. John R. Steele, on February 24, 2017. He passed away at the age of 91.

Dr. Steele was considered a pioneer in sport horse medicine.

He had a distinguished career as an equine veterinarian and he served clients in Wellington, Florida.

He graduated from Cornell University in 1946, was an assis‑ tant professor at Cornell, at the time being the youngest assis‑ tant professor there at the age of 22.

From 1969 to 1985, he worked at John R. Steele & Associates, specializing in treating Standardbred race horses, which has been a dominant multi-veterinarian practice. Many of today’s

top equine veterinarians benefited from Dr. Steele’s passion for men‑ torship and continuing education.

Dr. Steele was an active FVMA member and continued to treat horses until the week before his passing. He was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 2009.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne; five children, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

DONALD F. SWERIDA, DVM Dr. Donald F. ‘Dr. Don’ Swerida of Venice, Fla., passed away unex‑ pectedly on July 27, 2017. He was 58 years old.

Dr. Don operated Laurel Road Veterinary Clinic in Nokomis, Fla., but for 30 years he operated as Dr. Don’s Mobile Vet, travelling the area to provide veterinary medical services. He also worked with the Big Cat Habitat and the Wildlife Center of Venice and other organizations, and earned a reputation for working with exot‑ ics including eagles, owls, herons, turtles and fish. He starred

4 | FVMA ADVOCATE

in a weekly segment of Animal Outtakes, a television program which aired on ABC 7 WWSB in West-Central Florida.

He graduated from Monmouth University in New Jersey, and The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Don is survived by his son, Benjamin and daughter, Amber Stultz and her husband Perry; brother, Robert Swerida and his wife Fran; sisters, Ann Marie Keim and companion Steve Trigwell, Kathleen Reichenbecher and her husband Kurt; companion, Elaine Wells; three grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Celebrating

OUR VETERINARY TECHNICIANS THE FVMA SALUTES VETERINARY TECHNICIANS DURING NATIONAL VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WEEK, OCT. 15-21ST

••

Veterinary technicians play a vital role in veterinary medicine, and we celebrate their hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence. As the voice of veterinary medicine in Florida, we are honored to serve them and all of our 5,000 members and the nearly 80% of veterinary practices we represent across the state.

To further recognize the outstanding contributions of veterinary care teams in our industry, and to support both team member career development and veterinary medicine, we are excited to announce the launch of our new veterinary team member affiliate membership programs to better serve these distinguished professionals.

Operating under the umbrella of the FVMA, these new organizations extend the reach and mission of our association by offering affiliate membership and exclusive benefits to eligible individuals. These benefits include: • Career networking opportunities with thousands of veterinary colleagues • A dedicated staff of FVMA professionals committed to your success (Available M-F, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.)

• Discounts on world-class CE and conference registration • Updates on the latest news and issues impacting veterinary medicine • Legislative and regulatory advocacy • Membership card, certificate, pin, and much more!

We encourage eligible team members to join us and add their voices to strengthen our profession and their careers. For a limited time, the inaugural members of these organizations will receive a discounted membership rate, so act quickly!

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On behalf of the FVMA membership, the Executive Board, staff, and all those who benefit from their veterinary technicians’ dedication to their careers and the animals they care for, we extend our sincerest gratitude and wish everyone a wonderful and successful year!

If you know a certified veterinary technician or animal care technician who has done a truly outstanding job this year and gone above and beyond to support their practice and care for clients, consider nominating them for the FVMA’s CVT of the Year or Team Member of the Year award, to be handed out at our annual conference in April.

For more information about affiliate membership and for applications for each, please visit fvma.org, or email us at info@fvma.org. We also can be reached by phone at (407) 851-3862, or toll-free at (800) 992-3862.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ROBERT G. GUKICH, DVM, AWARDED EXCELLENCE IN PREVENTIVE MEDICINEBEEF FROM BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM Dr. Robert G. Gukich of Polk County, Fla., has been honored by the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP).

At their annual convention in September in Omaha, Neb., the AABP presented Dr. Gukich with the Boehringer Ingelheim Excellence in Preventive Medicine-Beef award, recognizing his outstanding performance and contribution to veterinary medicine.

As part of his award, Dr. Gukich chose his alma mater, Auburn University, to receive a $1,500 donation toward student scholarships from Boehringer Ingelheim.

Dr. Gukich joined the FVMA in 1976, and has provided large animal veterinary services in Lake Wales, Fla., focusing on bovine and equine species for 40 years. His practice, Lake Wales Large Animal Services, provides veterinary care to clients who own more than 50,000 brood cows.

A founding member of Florida Cattle Ranchers (FRC), LLC, he raises cattle himself, and in March this year, saw the first FCR beef that was born, raised, and fed in Florida sold in local grocery stores throughout the state.

He was born and raised in Lake Wales, earned an associate’s degree from Alabama’s Marion Military Institute, then earned a bachelor’s in animal science and DVM from Auburn University.

He also founded Lake Wales Veterinary Hospital which he oper‑ ated for 25 years before selling the practice.

“The focus of his practice has always been preventive medicine,” shares Dr. John Crews, Associate Profes‑ sor of Agricultural Studies at Warner University and Gukich’s current research partner, who served as director of Florida’s diagnostic labs as well as district veterinarian for 16 years. “Long before computer days, he meticulously wrote out detailed herd health plans for his clients, not just relying on them hearing it while he performed routine pregnancy exams and BSE’s in their cow pens. To his clients he is most often referred to as “Doc.” Gukich travels extensively throughout the U.S. to serve on drug advisory councils with nationally-recognized pharmaceutical corporations, and has hosted numerous client educational meet‑ ings. He has appeared on RFD channel’s “Cattlemen to Cattle‑ men” program as a featured guest to explain animal vaccines and vaccination protocol.

STEPHANIE KANE, DVM, IS UF CVM’S 2017 OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT Dr. Stephanie Kane, a 2012 graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM), is this year’s UF CVM Outstanding Young Alumni. A member of the FVMA since 2014, Dr. Kane is the medical director at Care Animal Hospital, a large mixed animal practice in Brandon, Fla., owned by her father, Richard Kane, DVM, a 1984 graduate of the UF veterinary college.

She supervises and mentors a staff of more than 30 employees with a caseload of thousands of patients each year.

Following her graduation from veterinary school, Kane 6 | FVMA ADVOCATE

performed an internship at Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners in Tampa, completing and earning her certificate in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery. A member of the college’s alumni council, she actively supports the college’s scholarship and other fundraising programs.

She was named “Best Vet” in the 2015 Best of the Bay com‑ petition by Creative Loafing and was designated in 2013 as one of the UF Alumni Association’s “Top 20 under 30 Alumni.” She also volunteers as one of the senior veterinarians associated with Wildlife Rescue Ministries, providing no-cost services to treat sick, injured and orphaned wildlife in her area, and provides veterinary services to the Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office K-9 officers.

VIRGINIA QUELCH, DVM, MS, RECEIVES DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD FROM UF CVM

Dr. Virginia Quelch was awarded the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UF CVM) 2017 Distinguished Service Award, along with husband Dr. Mark Gendzier.

A release from the college says Dr. Quelch, who operates St. John’s Veterinary Hospital and Cat Clinic in St. Augustine, Fla., plays a large role with her husband in supporting the college through years of referrals, by employment of UFCVM alumni as associates, through consistent attendance at college and alumni events and activities, and through financial gifts to enhance col‑ lege programs.

A 1987 graduate of UF CVM, Dr. Quelch also holds an MS Degree in Immunology, and maintains a special interest in phar‑ maceutical development, which lead her to the creation of the commercially successful MicroPearls line of veterinary dermato‑ logic products.

Her volunteer work in St. Augustine and the wider St. Johns County provides free services and supplies to treat injured wildlife in partnership with local wildlife rehabilitation groups.

She also chairs the board of directors of the St. Francis House Homeless Shelter.

Animal dermatology is her area of special interest. She has presented numerous seminars for veterinarians in Asia and South and Central America on canine and feline skin diseases and treatment.

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CAL L

NOMINA T NS IO

R FO

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FVMA 2018 ANNUAL AWARDS

2017 Gold Star Recipients Left to right: Gold Star Award recipients, Brooke Wells Certa, DVM; Kevin Drygas, DVM, DACVS; Natalie Hashey, DVM; Rebecca Williams, DVM Nominations for service awards for 2018 are now being received by the FVMA, and members are invited to send in their nominations for the awards, which honor colleagues and friends of the profession.

The FVMA Annual Awards Program highlights exceptional service by veterinary professionals and citizens of Florida who have dedicated time, talent

and services to the enhancement and protection of the veterinary profession.

The 2018 award recipients will be determined by an awards committee in early January, and they will be presented with award plaques of recognition at a gala award ceremony to be held in conjunction with the 89th FVMA Annual Conference, which is scheduled for April 5-8, 2018 at

the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Fla. Nomination forms and listings of past award recipients are available on the FVMA website, www.fvma.org. Members of the FVMA are encouraged to nominate deserving colleagues and friends of veterinary medicine for an award. The nomination deadline is January 3, 2018.

SERVICE AWARDS CATEGORIES & ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

The Distinguished Service Award is to be awarded for exceptional achievements and contributions by a member towards the advancement of veterinary medicine and the profession. To qualify, a member must have been dedicated to veterinary medicine and given time and energy beyond reasonable expectations. To be eligible for this award, a nominee must have been an active member of the Association for at least the past 15 years.

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VETERINARIAN OF THE YEAR

Veterinarian of the Year Award is conferred on a member for distinguished and unselfish, dedicated service to the Association for the advancement of veterinary medicine and the profession.

To be eligible for this award, a nominee must have been an active member of the Association for at least the past 10 years.

Distinguised Service Award, recipient Robert R.Hase, DVM, at the awards ceremony in April, 2017

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Lifetime Achievement Award is awarded to senior active and retired members who have made outstanding contributions to the Association and veterinary medicine. To be eligible for this award, a nominee must have been an active or retired member of the Association for the last 30 consecutive years and must be at least 65 years old. In exceptional cases, the service requirement may be reduced to 25 years.

GOLD STAR AWARDS

The Gold Star is awarded to members who have contributed much of their time and energy to the Association and/or a local association for the advancement of veterinary medicine and the profession.

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must have been an active member of the Association for at least the past three years.

CERTIFIED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN AND TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR

To be eligible for nomination for either the Certified Veterinary Technician of the Year or Team Member of the Year, the nominee must be a full-time employee of an FVMA-member practice for a minimum of three years and demonstrate the following: • CARING – Provides animal health care services in a compassionate and clinically appropriate manner.

• COMMITMENT – Works in support of the employing veterinarian to achieve a high-level of client satisfaction and estab‑ lished annual performance goals of the

NOMINATION DEADLINE

January 3, 2018 veterinary practice.

• LEADERSHIP – Assumes a leadership role in creating and maintaining an effi‑ cient and highly motivated animal health care services delivery team among all employees.

• EDUCATION – Regularly strives to fur‑ ther develop his/her knowledge and skills by participating in continuing education seminars, formal study at a junior col‑ lege or university, or by undertaking selfdirected study through journals, online programs, etc.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Citizen of the Year is awarded to a nonveterinarian who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of the Association and veterinary medicine.

PET HALL OF FAME

One inductee to the Pet Hall Of Fame will be selected for one of the following categories.

1. HERO – Pets who have unselfishly saved or preserved human life (non-professional).

2. COMPANION – Pets who have pro‑ vided a benefit and contributed to the qual‑ ity of life of their human companions.

3. PROFESSIONAL – Specialty trained as a physically challenged person’s assistance animal or used in law enforcement.

Requirements for Nomination as Pet Hero • Individual FVMA members or organizations having an FVMA-member endorsement may submit nominations.

• Each nomination must be a living, domestic animal that exemplifies the affection, loyalty, security and value of the human-animal bond.

• The owner/caretaker must sign the completed nomination form and the release form.

• Include comments by the nominating veterinarian and others describing why the animal should be awarded.

Deadline for nominations to be received by the FVMA is Monday, January 3, 2018.

A separate form must be received for each nomination. They should be mailed to FVMA Awards Committee, 7207 Mon‑ etary Drive, Orlando, FL 32809; faxed to (407) 240-3710; or emailed to ann.wade@ fvma.org.

Richard B. Williams, DVM President’s Award Recipient

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THE 2018 FVMA LEGISLATIVE

MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW

Part of the 2017 Legislative Action Days Team - (from left) Brooke Eubanks (student), Dr. Christy Layton; Dr. Richard Sutliff, Past President; Phil Hinkle, Executive Director; Dr. Richard Williams, Legislative Chair; Dr. Todd Fulton, District 3 Representative; Dr. Alex “Steve” Steverson, President; Dr. Michael Epperson; Dr. Marc Presnell, President-Elect; Dr. Kelly SloanWade, District 9 Representative; Dr. Gerardo Diaz; Dr. Marta Lista, District 6 Representative; Dr. Claudia Valderrama The FVMA’s 2018 Legislative Action Days, our annual grassroots advocacy event, will take place Wednesday, January 17th, and Thursday, January 18, 2018, at the state capital, Tallahassee. This event, scheduled each year during the first two weeks of the Florida Legislative Session, will happen earlier versus previous years because the 2018 session begins sooner than usual on Tuesday, January 9th. The 2018 legislative session will end on Friday, March 9th.

Association members from across the state will join the FVMA Executive Board and Legislative Committee for two full days of advocacy activities. Legislative Action Days begins with a workshop to brief attendees on senate and house bills that are of significance to veterinary medicine. The FVMA’s proactive legislative strategies and plans for the event also are discussed and formulated during this workshop. The next day, the delegation convenes at the Capitol building and meets face-to-face with their state representatives and senators in their offices to advocate for FVMA priorities, and against any bills that could negatively impact the profession or animal health and well-being in Florida.

Legislative priorities for 2018 include a bill to amend the Veterinary Practice Act, F.S. 474. Senate and house sponsors have

10 | FVMA ADVOCATE

been secured for the bill, which is now being drafted.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 2018 FVMA AMENDMENT BILL?

Our latest bill provides the necessary definitions to help better regulate veterinary medicine, and will improve enforcement of statutory prohibitions against unlicensed veterinary practices. These definitions use language consistent with the definitions contained in the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Model Practice Act. This year’s bill more clearly defines the following terms: • • •

“Examination” means the evaluation of a patient by personal inspection, palpation, and auscultation "Patient" means any animal or herd, collection, or group of animals for which the veterinarian practices veterinary medicine "Veterinarian/client/patient relationship" is a relationship where the veterinarian has examined the patient or made medically appropriate visits to the premises where the patient is kept and assumed the responsibility for making medical judgments regarding the health of the patient and

AGENDA

FOR THE 2018 LEGISLATIVE ACTION DAYS!

•

•

its need for medical treatment “Veterinary dentistry” with respect to animals, is defined as a discipline within the scope of veterinary medicine that involves the professional examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and surgical and nonsurgical treatment of conditions, diseases, and disorders of a patient's oral cavity and maxillofacial area and adjacent and associated structures; a veterinary dental cleaning, which includes scaling of, supragingival and subgingival plaque and calculus removal from, and polishing of a patient's teeth with power or hand instruments by a veterinarian or a person under the veterinarian's immediate supervision; and veterinary periodontal therapy to treat a patient's diseased periodontal tissues, including root planing, gingival curettage, periodontal flap surgery, extractions, regenerative surgery, gingivectomy and gingivoplasty, and local administration of antiseptics and antibiotics.

The term does not include non-veterinary polishing or brushing of an animal's teeth with animal toothpastes or whiteners that are readily available to the public "Veterinary medicine" includes, with respect to animals, surgery, acupuncture, obstetrics, veterinary dentistry, physical therapy, radiology, theriogenology, complementary and alternative and integrative therapy, veterinary telemedicine, and other branches or specialties of veterinary medicine

DEFINING VETERINARY TELEMEDICINE

A previous draft of this bill also provided a definition of the term “veterinary telemedicine,” and required that a physical examination of the animal by a Florida-licensed veterinarian be performed before the practice of veterinary medicine through electronic communications can take place. This language was recently removed for this year due to reluctance by state legislators to address telemedicine and related issues in the state house of representatives.

definition for veterinary telemedicine within our Practice Act,” he said. “Our goal here is to ensure our patients are cared for as they should be.”

The association will re-visit this issue during future legislative sessions.

WE’RE COMMITTED TO BEING YOUR VOICE IN TALLAHASSEE Dr. Williams and the FVMA Legislative Committee began preparations for the FVMA’s 2018 legislative initiative this past summer. The committee presented its plan of action to the FVMA Executive Board at a board meeting held in Orlando on August 12, 2017. The committee, along with members of the executive board, our members, and government consultants, will aggressively work to ensure this year’s amendment bill clarifying the practice of veterinary medicine in the Veterinary Practice Act passes in the spring.

As the voice of veterinary medicine in Florida, the FVMA is advocating for the clarification of veterinary practices and supports more clearly defining various veterinary terms within Florida state law. The passage of our 2018 amendment bill will significantly enhance patient safety and better protect Florida consumers. For more information about getting involved in our 2018 Legislative Action Days, please visit our website at fvma. org/advocacy, or call (407) 851-3862. The FVMA can also be reached toll-free at (800) 992-3862.

OUR STANCE ON TELEMEDICINE

The FVMA recognizes that the integration of telecommunica‑ tion and information technologies into everyday practice benefits patients, and enhances service delivery. The association also real‑ izes these advancements are unavoidable. “Optimal functional‑ ity of technology tools will continue to drive business develop‑ ment,” said FVMA Legislative Chair, Richard B. Williams, DVM. “The FVMA will continue to act on its responsibility to advocate for laws in our state that will protect the consumer and enhance our profession. Most importantly, we advocate for patient safety, and for protections for Florida consumers. We also want to pro‑ vide clarification of the veterinary profession, and to formalize a

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UF CVM Student Brooke Eubanks with FVMA President Alex "Steve" Steverson

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2018 Legislative Action Days Schedule of Events Wednesday, January 17, 2018 2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Legislative Workshop Group Dinner

The FVMA will host a group dinner following the Legislative Workshop. If you are traveling with a spouse or guest, they are invited to attend.

Thursday, January 18, 2018 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.

8:00 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.

8:30 a.m.

Group Breakfast Final Review of FVMA Legislative Priorities and “Charge to Delegates” Delegates will drive to the Capitol on their own and park at the Kleman Plaza Parking Garage one block from the Capitol

The FVMA will host a group breakfast Thursday morning prior to our visit to the Capitol. Following breakfast, we will recap our legislative agenda and then head to the Capitol for our scheduled appointments.

APPOINTMENTS WITH LEGISLATORS Registration for this event is free for members, but pre-registration is required. Should you have any questions on registration, please contact the FVMA office at (800) 992-3862 .

To ensure a successful visit to the Capitol, FVMA staff will secure appointments for you with legislators from your respective district. These appointments are made subject to the legislators’ availabilities. Members attending Legislative Action Days for the first time will be paired with seasoned veterans to make sure you gain the most out of your Capitol visit.

We encourage all members to take the opportunity and participate in this important grassroots advocacy event!

HOST HOTEL HOLIDAY INN & SUITES 2725 GRAVES ROAD, TALLAHASSEE, FL 32303 The special FVMA room rate of $159 plus taxes ends Wednesday, January 3, 2018, subject to availability. Book your room today by calling (850) 536-2000 and asking for the special FVMA room rate.

12 | FVMA ADVOCATE

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FVMA and Disaster Response Coalition Partners Step Up in Aftermath of Hurricane Irma Following the devastation of Hurricane Irma last month, the FVMA, in partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and other coalition organizations, mobilized to support those areas most effected across the state of Florida.

As a member of the Florida disaster response coalition, the FVMA’s role is the maintenance, call-out, and deployment of the Florida Veterinary Corps (FVC), a voluntary group of more than 400 veterinary professionals tasked with providing assistance in the event of disasters that result in an executive order or declaration of a state of emergency. The FVC is the only such disaster response corps of its type in the country, and in September, 117 veterinarian and veterinary technician members volunteered for statewide relief and recovery assignments.

In addition to managing the FVC, the FVMA staff conducted emergency outreach to veterinary clinics in the most devastated areas of the state in the week following Hurricane Irma. Several thousand phone calls were made to 600 clinics in south, southwest and central Florida to assess damage, clarify members’ ability to serve as triage and emergency clinics and shelters, and to evaluate any emergency needs necessary to return their businesses to normal operations.

The assessment results were then compiled to inform the coalition organizations about the specific types of help that were needed, so that emergency response teams could adequately respond and provide those areas with the specific assistance they required.

“

Stranded horses were rescued, evaluated, and fed in Columbia County.

“It’s important to stay vigilant and to be prepared for these kinds of situations, whether they are natural or man-made disasters,” said FVMA Disaster Committee Chairman, Dr. Terry Clekis. “Our proactive planning and practice, as well as our experience from previous disasters prepared us well for Hurricane Irma, and we’ll use what we learned here to ensure we’re even better prepared for future situations.”

14 | FVMA ADVOCATE

RELIEF

RECOVERY

Based on FVMA assessments, the majority of our members in these areas had their emergency plans in place, and were adequately prepared for the storm. Their proactive planning enabled the reopening of clinic doors in all areas, except for the Florida Keys, where a UF CVM triage unit was deployed. “It’s important to stay vigilant and to be prepared for these kinds of situations, whether they are natural or man-made disasters,” said Dr. Terry Clekis, Disaster Committee Chairman for the FVMA. “Our proactive planning and practice, as well as our experience from previous disasters prepared us well for Hurricane Irma, and we’ll use what we learned here to ensure we’re even better prepared for future situations.”

RESCUE

Hurricane-damaged areas presented a number of dangerous conditions during the relief, recovery, and rescue efforts following Irma.

Additionally, the FVMA Foundation is accepting donations for this life-saving support, and will absorb the administrative fees of the disaster relief fund to ensure your tax-deductible gifts by check are applied completely to disaster response, relief, and recovery where needed. Donations made by credit card will be subject to minimal bank processing fees of approximately 2.5%.

For more information on how you can help, please visit fvma.org/events/hurricane-irma-update.

Rescue teams organized to deliver fresh water, food, and emergency care to stranded animals in the storm's most devasted areas of Florida.

and recovery mission in the Above: Mobile triage units departed on a relief aftermath of Hurricane Irma. cy Treatment Service (VETS) team Right: (Left to Right) UF Veterinary Emergen Fleming, Matt Johnson, and Brandi Josh , rson members Greg Johnson, Dane Ande responded.

Phillips were among the many volunteers who

Please note that the FVMA Foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions are tax- deductible to the extent permitted by law. The FVMA Foundation tax identification number is 59-3669363.

Come and Join Us at the

5TH ANNUAL GULF-ATLANTIC VETERINARY CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 03, 2017

EXPERIENCE THE TGAVC A SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM TO ENRICH EVERY MEMBER OF THE SMALL ANIMAL VETERINARY CARE TEAM.

CE APPROVED BY:

■ AAVSB RACE - AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF VETERINARY STATE BOARDS RACE, PROVIDER #532 ■ SPONSOR OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN NEW YORK STATE ■ FLORIDA BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICINE, DBPR FVMA PROVIDER #31

2017

TGAVC

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 03, 2017

HOLIDAY DIFFERENCE MORE THAN 290 HOURS OF STIMULATING LECTURES, HANDS-ON WET LABS & WORKSHOPS. RACE APPROVED:

MO RE DE IL TA



This program 532-30238 is approved by the AAVSB RACE to offer a total of 260.00 CE Credits (28.00 max) being available to any one veterinarian: and/or 135.00 Veterinary Technician CE Credits (27.00 max). This RACE approval is for the subject matter categories of: Category One: Scientific; Category Two: Non-Scientific-Clinical; Category Three: Non-Scientific-Practice Management/Professional Development; using the delivery method of Seminar/Lecture Lab/Wet Lab. This approval is valid in jurisdictions which recognize AAVSB RACE; however, participants are responsible for ascertaining each board's CE requirements.

RACE does not "accredit" or "endorse" or "certify" any program or person, nor does RACE approval validate the content of the program.

S

Join us for the 5 Annual Gulf-A th

OUR WET LAB & WO

LASER THERAPY

Laurie McCauley, DVM, DACVSMR, CCRT, CVA, CVC

AV LI AI MIT LA ED BI LIT Y

LECTURE TOPICS • BEHAVIOR • CARDIOLOGY • CLINICAL PATHOLOGY • CRITICAL CARE • CYTOLOGY • DENTISTRY • DERMATOLOGY • ENDOCRINOLOGY • GASTROENTEROLOGY • HEMATOLOGY • HOSPICE CARE • IMMUNE DISORDERS • INTERNAL MEDICINE • NEUROLOGY • NUTRITION • ONCOLOGY • OPHTHALMOLOGY • PARASITOLOGY • PRACTICE MANAGEMNT • PULMONOLOGY • RADIOLOGY • RENAL & URINARY DISEASE • SURGERY • WOUND MANAGEMENT

OPHTHALMIC SURGERY

ULTRAS D

VM

Jason Arble, DVM, MSc, DACVR, MRCVS

Robert Swinger, DVM, DACVO

PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES IN CANINE SOFT TISSUE SURGERY

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Jason Arble, DVM, MSc, DACVR, MRCVS

Howard Seim, DVM, DACVS Clara Goh, BVSc, MS, DACVS-SA, ACVS Founding Fellow- Surgical Oncology

Saturday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Clara Goh, BVSc, MS, DACVS-SA, ACVS Founding Fellow- Surgical Oncology Howard Seim, DVM, DACVS ■ DR. MARK ACIERNO ■ DR. JASON ARBLE ■ MS. ELAINE ANTHONY ■ MR. EDWIN BAYO ■ DR. BYRON BLAGBURN ■ DR. JAN BELLOWS ■ MS. MEGAN BRASHEAR ■ MR. PAUL CAMILO ■ DR. TERESA DEFRANCESCO ■ DR. SUE ETTINGER ■ DR. THERESA FOSSUM ■ MR. ERIC GARCIA ■ DR. MARY GARDNER ■ DR. CLARA S. S. GOH ■ MS. MICHELLE GUERCIOWINTER

ADVANCED SMALL ANI ABDOMINAL ULTRASOU Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES IN CANINE ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

BASIC SMALL ANIMAL AB ULTRASOUND - NORMALS

Thursday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday | 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Thursday | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

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SURGERY CHNI TE

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REHABILITATION AND LASER THERAPY

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HEPATOBILIARY AND PA ULTRASOUND DEMONST

Saturday | 8:00 am - 11:00 a

Jason Arble, DVM, MSc, DACVR, MRCVS

AV LI AI MIT LA ED BI LIT Y

ULTRASOUND ECHO DE

Saturday | 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Teresa DeFrancesco, DVM, DACVIM, DA ■ DR. ADAM HONECKMAN ■ DR. BRUCE KEENE ■ DR. ROBERT KENNIS ■ DR. ANDREW MACKIN ■ DR. LAURIE MCCAULEY ■ DR. GARY OSWALD ■ MS. JEANNE PERRONE ■ MS. RACHEL POULIN ■ DR. CRAIG PRIOR ■ DR. CAROL REINERO ■ DR. CHRISTINE RUTTER ■ DR. WILLIAM SAXON ■ DR. LYNNE SEIBERT ■ DR. HOWARD SEIM ■ MS. CHRISTINE SHUMAN ■ DR. ROBERT SWINGER

■ DR. KA ■ DR. M ■ MS. D ■ DR. HE ■ DR. HE ■ DR. M ■ DR. BO ■ DR. M

EMAIL: INFO@FVMA.ORG | PHONE: (800) 992-3862/(407) 851-3862

Atlantic Veterinary Conference

CHNI TE

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DV

RKSHOP OFFERINGS

SOUND SEMINAR

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CANINE EXTRACTION TECHNIQUES

DV

CYTOLOGY

Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC, DABVP

CHNI TE

INTRAORAL DENTAL RADIOLOGY

Saturday | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

S

Jeanne Perrone, CVT, VTS (Dentistry) Paul Camilo, CVPM

DENTAL TECHNIQUES: CHARTING & CREATING DENTAL REPORT CARD

m

Friday | 1:10 pm - 5:10 pm

ACVECC

Jeanne Perrone, CVT, VTS (Dentistry) Paul Camilo, CVPM

AREN TOBIAS M. KATHERINE TOLBERT DENISE TUMBLIN EATHER WAMSLEY EIDI WARD MICHAEL WILLARD OB WIRTZ MICHAEL WONG

DV

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CHNI TE

Saturday | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Heather Wamsley, DVM, PhD, DACVP Heidi Ward, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

FLORIDA LICENSED VETERINARIANS CHNI TE

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CHNI TE

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M

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Bob Wirtz, PhD Byron Blagburn, MS, PhD I. Craig Prior, BVSc, CVJ

M

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DV

DV

Friday | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC, DABVP

am

EMONSTRATION

DOUBLE DEFENSE HEARTWORM

Friday | 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm

S

ANCREATIC TRATION

D

Friday | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

S

IMAL UND

FELINE EXTRACTION TECHNIQUES

WORKSHOPS VM

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D

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BDOMINAL

DENTISTRY VM

Saturday, December 2, 2017 | 7:00 am – 7:50 am

Dispensing Legend Drugs

Sunday, December 3, 2017 | 7:00 am – 8:50 am

Florida Laws & Rules Governing the Practice of Veterinary Medicine

Thank you

TO OUR EARLY-BIRD SPONSORS

FAX: (407) 240-3710 | WWW.TGAVC.ORG

EDWIN BAYÓ, JD

Enjoy first-rate amenities at the

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Enjoy endless amenities, including 13 on-site restaurants, a private marina, a half-mile of private beach, and an award-winning spa.

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THE ROOM BLOCK FOR TGAVC IS NOW OPEN! RESERVE YOUR ROOM EARLY!

Call 1-888-557-6375 and mention the group name "ATGAVC" and receive the special rate.

RATES:

Cloister Room: ............................ $190 Tower Room: ............................... $210 Tower Junior Suite: ..................... $260 Beach Club Standard Room:.... $230 Beach Club Ocean Vista Room: $270 Yacht Club Room: ....................... $290

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$195.00 $195.00 $195.00 $195.00 $95.00

$150.00 $150.00 $150.00 $150.00 $95.00

Veterinary Technician Veterinary Assistant Practice Manager Administrative Staff Veterinary Technician Student

Signature

$125.00 $75.00 $395.00 $395.00

B

TOTAL WET LAB FEE $

Prac. Techniques in Canine Orthopedic Surgery...

Intraoral Dental Radiology (Techs)..........................

Charting & Creating Dental Report Cards (Techs)..

Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Ultrasound ......

Cardio Echo Ultrasound Demonstration..........

Cytology WS (Techs & Vets)...............................................

B

$795.00 $150.00 $150.00 $275.00 $275.00 N/A

$795.00 $495.00 $545.00 $595.00 No charge

$175.00 $125.00 $595.00 $595.00

Discover

Zip:

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C

TOTAL SOCIAL EVENT/GUEST FEE $

(Children’s Registration does not include lunch)

Spouse & Guest Registration....................... $95.00 (Includes Friday/Saturday Lunch) (Spouse/Guest registration only allows entrance to the exhibit hall and non-ticketed social events. Spouses who wish to attend C.E. sessions must pay full registration fees.)

Thurs. Fishing Tournament ...........................$175.00

 American Express

Fax:

State:

4 Ways to Register: MAIL: TGAVC, 7207 Monetary Drive, Orlando, Fl 32809 | ONLINE: www.tgavc.org; info@fvma.org | PHONE: (800) 992-3862; (407) 851-3862 | FAX: (407) 240-3710

A

$595.00 $95.00 $95.00 $75.00 $75.00 $35.00

SATURDAY WET LABS / WORKSHOPS (WS)

Practical Techniques in Canine Soft Tissue...... $595.00 Feline Extraction Techniques................................ $295.00 Canine Extraction Techniques.............................. $345.00 Advanced Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound $395.00 Double Defense Heartworm WS (Must Pre-Register).. No charge

FRIDAY WET LABS / WORKSHOP (WS)



Mastercard

With Conf. Reg. Fees Wet Lab Only Fees

Expiration Date



Visa

Phone:

City:

Address:

Email:

TGAVC

Rehabilitation & Laser Therapy (Vets).................

Rehabilitation & Laser Therapy (Techs)................

Ophthalmic Surgery .............................................

Basic Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound....

THURSDAY WET LABS

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation deadline for a full refund of registration fees minus a $50 administrative charge is October 27th, 2017. Cancellations should be received in writing and acknowledged by the FVMA by the above date to be eligible for a refund. Cancellations after that date and no-shows are non-refundable.

A

$625.00 $425.00 $425.00 $525.00 $95.00

$545.00 $345.00 $345.00 $445.00 $95.00

Veterinarian Recent Graduate (2017) First Year Graduate (2016) Second Year Graduate (2015) Veterinary Student

(Registration Fees Include Friday & Saturday Lunches)

After Oct. 27th

By Oct. 27th

Name as It Appears on Card

Credit Card Number

Method of Payment  Check/Money Order  Charge My Credit Card Below $

PAYMENT INFORMATION

Business/Clinic/School:

Name:

 Dr.  Mr.

MAILING INFORMATION

NOV. 30 - DEC. 3, 2017 | BOCA RATON, FL

TGAVC REGISTRATION FORM

2017

Make every dog a GARD dog.

®HEARTGARD, NexGard, and the Dog & Hand logo are registered trademarks, and ™FRONTLINE VET LABS is a trademark, of Merial. ©2015 Merial, Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. MER15NAVCSIGNAGE (1/16).

CLASS OF 2021 ORIENTATION New UF CVM Veterinary Medical Students Begin Their Journey

FVMA President Alex "Steve" Steverson, DVM, with UF CVM faculty during the recent Class of 2021 new student orientation.

The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine wel‑ comed its Class of 2021 at new student orientation on Monday, August 14th, when 111 students were officially welcomed into the program.

This year’s class includes 87 Florida residents, and 24 nonsponsored students. Sam Hollister, of Tallahassee, was selected as the FVMA student representative.

The First Year Leadership Experience (FLE) took place later that week, and provided students the opportunity to network with one another and to meet college faculty, staff, and adminis‑ trators. This annual experience includes a number of interactive and motivational team-building activities designed to acclimate students to the university and degree program.

FVMA President Alex “Steve” Steverson, DVM, represented the association during this year’s orientation, and welcomed students to the FVMA and to veterinary medicine. On behalf of

association members, Dr. Steverson also presented the FVMA’s mission and work, and gave gifts to the organization’s newest stu‑ dent members.

The FVMA provides complimentary student memberships annually to each UF CVM incoming class as part of the associa‑ tion’s efforts to support and prepare the next generation of vet‑ erinary professionals in the state of Florida. Additional FVMAfunded support includes: • Annual scholarships • Activities that provide students excellent exposure to the veterinary profession • Student mentoring • Free attendance at the FVMA Annual Conference • Discounted rates for registration at other associationsponsored meetings • Discounted membership for two years after graduation

The UF CVM Class of 2021 includes 111 students.

Sam Hollister, of Tallahassee, was selected as the FVMA student representative.

WWW.FVMA.ORG |

THE FVMA |

@FLORIDAVMA |

FLORIDA-VETERINARY-MEDICAL-ASSOCIATION | 23

Radiation Protection

IN VETE R INARY CLINICS

An FVMA member recently reached out to enquire about radiation protection norms and requirements in the State of Florida. The doctor was in the process of designing and building a new clinic, and wanted to learn what the rules and required certifications were regarding the x-ray room which was to form a part of the establishment. The conversation led to a need to understand whether there was any available information specific to a veterinary clinic, then it broadened to include what the standards were for personnel engaged in radiology. Our follow-up on these questions led us to the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control.

For the benefit of members who may want or need this information, the contact at the department concerning shielding and questions from a contractor is Amy Carlson, at (850) 728-1609.

The department’s Bureau of Radiation Control page on its website, maintains updated information and forms for easy access at: http://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/ radiation-control/ Firstly, x-ray machines are required to be registered in the State 24 | FVMA ADVOCATE

of Florida. Regulatory specialists Matthew Calcutt and Larry Campbell are the bureau’s contacts for help with registering and other related direction. They may be reached at (850) 245-4888, and will walk applicants through the process.

FVMA has been advised by the department that veterinarians should also contact their city government as well for their city requirements, as the State defers to stricter city regulations.

The regulations that control the use of radiologic technology in the state are Chapter 64E-3, F.A.C. Radiologic Technology, Chapter 64E-4, F.A.C. Control of Laser Radiation Hazards, and Chapter 64E-5, F.A.C. Control of Ionizing Radiation Hazards.

The Advisory Council on Radiation Protection makes recommendations to the Department of Health on a variety of areas and issues, including matters relating to the practice of radiologic technology and radiation protection. The 16-member advisory council draw members from various Florida societies and associations who are appointed by the State Surgeon General.

From the wealth of information provided by the Bureau of Radiation Control we’ve included two important documents all veterinarians in the state will find useful.

Document 1 Information Notice Number 11 (revised December 1997) For Florida Radiation Machine Registrants Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control RADIATION PROTECTION PROGRAM FOR VETERINARY REGISTRANTS RADIATION PROTECTION PROGRAM FOR VETERINARY REGISTRANTS The Florida Administrative Code requires radiation machine registrants to develop, document and

The Florida aAdministrative Code requires radiation machine registrants to develop, document implement radiation protection program (RPP).

A properly developed and implemented RPP can and implement a radiation protection program (RPP). A properly developed and implemented RPP can minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to employees and the general public, help prevent either group from exceeding their legal limits on exposure to radiation, and document such an effort has been made by group minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to employees and the general public, help prevent either the registrant. The RPP requirement for veterinarians can be satisfied in one of the following ways: from exceeding their legal limits on exposure to radiation, and document such an effort has been made by the registrant. TheRadiation RPP requirement for veterinarians can be satisfied in one of the following ways: I. Pre-approved Protection Program: Veterinary (see attachment).

The requirements for an RPP will have been met if:

I. Pre-approved Radiation Protection Program: Veterinary a) the conditions at the registrant’s facility satisfy line items 1 through 12, Theb) requirements forperson an RPPresponsible will have been if: protection program is entered in line item 13, the name of the for themet radiation c)a)thethe conditions registrant’s satisfy 1 through 12, it must be reviewed dates the plan at is the in effect [Note: afacility plan is valid at line mostitems for one calendar year, and dated in January of every year, see line item 10] i.e., the current month through December of theitem 13,

b) the name of the person responsible for the radiation protection program is entered in line current year, are entered in line item 14,

c) the dates the plan is in effect [Note: a plan is valid at most for one calendar year, it must be d) the facility name and x-ray machine registration number are entered at the bottom, and reviewed and dated in January of every year, see line item 10] i.e., the current month through e) the form is signed and dated by the responsible party, December of the current year, are entered in line item 14, NOT have to be submitted for approval by the Radiation Machine Program office.

Thisd)plan thedoes facility name and x-ray machine registration number are entered at the bottom, and II. Alternate e) the form is signed and dated by the responsible party, Radiation Protection Program (see attachment).

This plan does NOT have to be submitted for approval by the Radiation Machine Program office.

The alternate plan offers the registrant a structured set of options for developing an RPP. For each numbered step one and only one option must be selected. If the second choice in a step is selected, the documentation be attached to the plan. This plan and the required attachments MUST be II.required Alternate Radiation must Protection Program submitted to the program office for review. Previously reviewed alternate radiation protection program do The plan offers theforregistrant a structured options for developing an RPP. For each notalternate need to be resubmitted review unless changes set areof made.

numbered step one and only one option must be selected. If the second choice in a step is selected, the III. Self-developed Radiation required documentation mustProtection be attachedProgram. to the plan. This plan and the required attachments MUST be The registrant developoffice an RPP fit theirPreviously specific situation.

Thealternate provisions of this RPP should program do submitted to themay program for to review. reviewed radiation protection address all requirements in the Florida Administrative Code.

Self-developed programs MUST be not need to be resubmitted for review unless changes are made. submitted to the program office for review. Previously reviewed self-developed radiation protection program do not need to be resubmitted for review unless changes are made.

III. Self-developed Radiation Protection Program.

If you have questions or need office at:The provisions of this RPP should address The registrant may develop anguidance, RPP to fitplease their contact specificthis situation. all requirements in the Florida Administrative Code. Self-developed programs MUST be submitted to the Department of Health radiation protection program do not need program office for review. Previously reviewed self-developed Bureau of Radiation Control, Radiation Machine Section to be resubmitted for review unless changes are made.

4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C21, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1741 Phone: (850) 245-4888 Fax: (850) 617-6442 www.myFloridaEH.com/radiation

If you have questions or need guidance, please contact this office at:

Department of Health Bureau of Radiation Control, Radiation Machine Section 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C21, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1741 Phone: (850) 245-4888 Fax: (850) 617-6442 www.myFloridaEH.com/radiation WWW.FVMA.ORG |

THE FVMA |

@FLORIDAVMA |

FLORIDA-VETERINARY-MEDICAL-ASSOCIATION | 25

Document 2 Information Notice Number 20 (November 1997) For Florida Radiation Machine Registrants Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control SHIELDING REQUIREMENTS FOR VETERINARY REGISTRANTS TYPICALTYPICAL SHIELDING REQUIREMENTS FOR VETERINARY REGISTRANTS The State Floridaadministrative administrative rules radiation machine registrants to adequately shield shield the The State ofofFlorida rulesrequire require radiation machine registrants to adequately the x-ray beams and scattered radiation produced by their machines. The purpose of this requirement is to x-ray beams and scattered radiation produced by theirpublic machines. purpose ofexposed this requirement ensure machine operators and members of the general are notThe unnecessarily to radiation is to ensure machine operators anddose members the general public are unnecessarily exposed to radiation and are kept below their legal limits. of Shielding requirements willnot be determined by this potential exposure to below humans andlegal must dose take into consideration factors, work load, energy and and are kept their limits.

Shielding occupancy requirements willdistance, be determined by this potential direction of the primary beam, and other related factors. exposure to humans and must take into consideration occupancy factors, distance, work load, energy and direction offor thethis primary and other related factors.

Generally type of beam, x-ray machine installation, the following guidance applies: 1. Preferably, a protected position is provided for the operator. When this is not possible, be able to standinstallation, at least six feet from the primaryapplies: source of scatter (the Generally foroperators this typemust of x-ray machine the away following guidance animal being radiographed), outside the path of the primary beam, and wear a protective 1. Preferably, a protected position is provided for the operator. When this is not possible, operators apron. must2.be Shielding able to stand at least six feet away is necessary for inside wallsfrom whenthe primary source of scatter (the animal being a. the primary will be toward it without beam block to intercept, radiographed), outsidebeam the path of directed the primary beam, and awear a protective apron. or b. normally occupied spaces are within eight (8) feet of the source of scatter.

2. Shielding is necessary for inside walls when 3. Shielding is not required for outside walls or areas without human occupancy, such as store

a. the primary beam will kennels, be directed rooms, bathrooms, etc. toward it without a beam block to intercept, or When b. normally occupied spaces are within eight (8) feetinch of the of scatter. a protected position is provided, one-sixteenth (1/16) leadsource equivalent shielding would be required to a height of seven (7) feet.

No additional shielding beyond standard drywall construction is rooms, 3. Shielding is not required for outside walls or areas without human occupancy, such as store normally required on the other walls except in special cases, such as when an office worker is in close bathrooms, kennels, etc. proximity to the x-ray room or a wall of the x-ray room is shared with another tenant. If additional shielding is warranted, any dense material, such as an additional thickness of drywall, can be used to When a protected position is provided, one-sixteenth (1/16) inch lead equivalent shielding would be attenuate the scattered radiation.

required to a height of seven (7) feet. No additional shielding beyond standard drywall construction is Shielding plan review and/or approval is not required by this office unless the energies used exceed 200 normally required on the other walls except in special cases, such as when an office worker is in close kVp. High volume offices (greater than 1000 mA minutes per week) or offices with fluoroscopic or special proximity to the x-ray room or a wall of the roomplanned is shared another tenant.

If additional function machines should consider having theirx-ray shielding by awith licensed medical physicist.

The Bureau of Control will inspect eachsuch facility uses a radiation machine and require shielding is Radiation warranted, any dense material, asthat an additional thickness of drywall, canadequate be used to shieldingthe to protect operators and the public. attenuate scattered radiation.

If you have questions or need guidance, please contact this office at:

Shielding plan review and/or approval is not required by this office unless the energies used exceed 200 kVp. High volume offices (greater than 1000 mA minutes per week) or offices with fluoroscopic or special Department of Health function machines should consider having their shielding planned by a licensed medical physicist. The Bureau of Radiation Control, Radiation Machine Section Bureau of Radiation Control will inspect eachCypress facility Way, that uses radiation machine and require adequate 4052 Bald Bin aC21 shielding to protect operators and the public.

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1741 Phone: (850) 245-4888 Fax: (850) 617-6442 www.myFloridaEH.com/radiation

If you have questions or need guidance, please contact this office at:

Department of Health Bureau of Radiation Control, Radiation Machine Section 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C21, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1741 Phone: (850) 245-4888 Fax: (850) 617-6442 www.myFloridaEH.com/radiation 26  |  FVMA ADVOCATE

AAHA Releases 2017 Canine Vaccination Guidelines

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has launched an online educational resource to expose its guidelines for canine vaccination more fully to the veterinary profession.

The portal on the AAHA website is located at https://www.aaha. org/guidelines/canine_vaccination_guidelines.aspx, and it intro‑ duces the AAHA’s 2017 guidelines which were developed by its Canine Vaccination Task Force.

The AAHA Canine Vaccination Task Force is chaired by Link V. Welborn, DVM, DABVP, of Tampa, Fla., who is a member of the FVMA, and includes individuals with extensive experience in primary care practice, academia, shelter medicine, public health, and veterinary law related to clinical practice. Its 2017 Canine Vaccination Guidelines published on September 5, revises the AAHA’s guidelines of 2011.

AAHA says the web-based resource now more fully enables the task force to provide timely updates on vaccination recom‑ mendations, references, and newly-licensed biologics for the benefit of veterinary practitioners. It also cautions that the ‘guidelines’ developed by its task force of experts and the infor‑ mation contained on the website are intended to guide and are not being propagated as an AAHA standard of care.

In a statement on the site, AAHA stresses the above, saying “These guidelines and recommendations should not be con‑ strued as dictating an exclusive protocol, course of treatment, or procedure. Variations in practice may be warranted based on the needs of the individual patient, resources, and limita‑ tions unique to each individual practice setting. Evidence-based WWW.FVMA.ORG |

THE FVMA |

support for specific recommendations is cited whenever possible and appropriate. Other recommendations are based on estab‑ lished immunological principles, practical clinical experience, and expert consensus. Further research is needed to document some of these recommendations. Because each case is different, veterinarians must base their decisions on the available scien‑ tific evidence in conjunction with their own knowledge and experience.”

The website resources include a “Frequently Asked Questions” section which covers vaccination recommendations, rabies vac‑ cination, overdue vaccination, antibody testing vs vaccination, legal considerations, vaccine adverse reactions, vaccine types, and vaccine handling and storage.

The Vaccination Guidelines also include a table on vacci‑ nation recommendations in practice which is an up-to-date, master reference that functions as a stand-alone resource cover‑ ing all commercially available canine vaccines licensed in the United States and Canada. Core and noncore vaccines are listed along with recommendations for revaccination intervals and various precautions. The table contains links to sections in the Guidelines that provide additional, relevant detail.

These guidelines were sponsored by a generous educational grant from Boehringer Ingelheim, Merial, Merck Animal Health, and Zoetis. They were subjected to a formal peer-review process.

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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’ve received a letter from the DBPR about a complaint filed against me that says I must respond to the department by a certain date. I have two questions: a) Can the complainant withdraw his complaint? b) Do I need to respond to the complaint if my client and me have resolved the matter?

A: Once a complaint has been filed, the DBPR takes jurisdiction and it is not up to the complainant to withdraw it. The complainant can send a letter to the department stating that “Dr. So and So and I have resolved this matter to my satisfaction and I have no interest in pursuing the complaint or in any other way participate in this matter” which can be useful.

The doctor must respond to the DBPR. In a scenario such as this, it is wise for the doctor to seek legal counsel.

QUESTION:

I have been asked to buy and dispense the drug naloxone (opioid reversal) for my local police. Our hospital provides medical care to the police dog and I’ve been asked to order the drug for them in case the dog has an emergency drug intoxication incident while working in the field A: A veterinarian who works with canines that may be at risk for an opioid overdose due to sniffing a small amount of fentanyl or other similar opioid is authorized to purchase and store naloxone for that use. A Florida statute (see below) was recently amended to allow many health care providers acting in good faith and exercising reasonable care to dispense or administer naloxone.

Although this statute may technically not cover veterinarians (because veterinarians do not fit the technical definition of “health care practitioner”) the statute evidences a clear legislative intent that naloxone be readily available to treat “patients” who may be experiencing an opioid overdose. In addition, naloxone is no longer a controlled substance. Taking all of these factors into consideration, it is counsel’s opinion that a veterinarian who routinely takes care of drug-sniffing canines is authorized to purchase, store, and even make available naloxone to law enforcement personnel who may be faced with an emergency with a drug-sniffing canine.

28 | FVMA ADVOCATE

381.887 Emergency treatment for suspected opioid overdose.— (1) As used in this section, the term:

(a) “Administer” or “administration” means to introduce an emergency opioid antagonist into the body of a person. (b) “Authorized health care practitioner” means a licensed practitioner authorized by the laws of this state to prescribe drugs.

(c) “Caregiver” means a family member, friend, or person in a position to have recurring contact with a person at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose.

(d) “Emergency opioid antagonist” means naloxone hydrochloride or any similarly acting drug that blocks the effects of opioids administered from outside the body and that is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of an opioid overdose.

(e) “Patient” means a person at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose.

(2) The purpose of this section is to provide for the prescription of an emergency opioid antagonist to patients and caregivers and to encourage the prescription of emergency opioid antagonists by authorized health care practitioners.

(3) An authorized health care practitioner may prescribe and dispense an emergency opioid antagonist to a patient or caregiver for use in accordance with this section, and pharmacists may dispense an emergency opioid antagonist pursuant to such a prescription or pursuant to a non-patient-specific standing order for an autoinjection delivery system or intranasal application delivery system, which must be appropriately labeled with instructions for use. Such patient or caregiver is authorized to store and possess approved emergency opioid antagonists and, in an emergency situation when a physician is not immediately available, administer the emergency opioid antagonist to a person believed in good faith to be experiencing an opioid overdose, regardless of whether that person has a prescription for an emergency opioid antagonist.

(4) The following persons are authorized to possess, store, and administer emergency opioid antagonists as clinically indicated:

(a) Emergency responders, including, but not limited to, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and emergency medical

technicians.

(b) Crime laboratory personnel for the statewide criminal analysis laboratory system as described in s. 943.32, including, but not limited to, analysts, evidence intake personnel, and their supervisors.

(5) A person, including, but not limited to, an authorized health care practitioner, a dispensing health care practitioner, or a pharmacist, who possesses, administers, prescribes, dispenses, or stores an approved emergency opioid antagonist in compliance with this section and s. 768.13 is afforded the civil liability immunity protections provided under s. 768.13.

(6) (a) An authorized health care practitioner, acting in good faith and exercising reasonable care, is not subject to discipline or other adverse action under any professional licensure statute or rule and is immune from any civil or criminal liability as a result of prescribing an emergency opioid antagonist in accordance with this section.

(b) A dispensing health care practitioner or pharmacist, acting in good faith and exercising reasonable care, is not subject to discipline or other adverse action under any professional licensure statute or rule and is immune from any civil or criminal liability as a result of dispensing an emergency opioid antagonist in accordance with this section.

(7) This section does not limit any existing immunities for emergency responders or other persons which are provided under this chapter or any other applicable provision of law. This section does not create a duty or standard of care for a person to prescribe or administer an emergency opioid antagonist.

History.—s. 2, ch. 2015-123; s. 1, ch. 2016-145; s. 1, ch. 2017-107.

designer-drug version of fentanyl, in whatever fashion or form, but DOES NOT include any pharmaceutical product approved by the FDA. So long as veterinarians purchase their FDA approved fentanyl products from legitimate drug wholesalers (and not from the internet) they are OK.

QUESTION:

A: We are unaware of a definitive position taken by the Florida Board of Veterinary Medicine on this issue. In cases where there are available tests that a veterinarian can perform but a client can decline, the veterinarian’s responsibility is to document that the available test was offered and declined after some informed consent. There are a few good waiver forms doctors can access on the internet, and doctors need a good form which shows that the client was fully informed.

Governor Scott recently signed a bill that becomes effective October 1, 2017, which classifies fentanyl as a Schedule I drug. Veterinarians use fentanyl in patch form for eye removal and orthopedic applications and are concerned that they will no long have access to the drug to treat their patients.

A: The word “veterinarian” or any derivative of that word is not mentioned in the bill. There is no reference to any section of Chapter 474, which is the Veterinary Practice Act. The bill signed by the governor is a rewrite of Chapter 893 to provide penalties for trafficking in fentanyl. As well, Fentanyl is not reclassified as a Schedule 1. Instead, “fentanyl derivatives” were placed on Schedule 1.

See the section of page 10 of the bill which speaks to this below. A “fentanyl derivative” is defined as any bootleg or illegal

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THE FVMA |

CS/HB 477 Controlled Substances 62. Fentanyl Derivatives. Unless specifically excepted, listed in another schedule, or contained within a pharmaceutical product approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, any material, compound, mixture, or preparation, including its salts, isomers, esters, or ethers, and salts of isomers, esters, or ethers, whenever the existence of such salts is possible within any of the following specific chemical designations containing a 4-anilidopiperidine structure.

QUESTION:

I’m contacting you because the topic of heartworm test waivers has come up in my practice. Is it good medical practice and legal in Florida to have an owner sign a waiver stating that they will not hold a veterinarian responsible if the owner does not want to have their dog tested for heartworm yearly but they want to purchase heartworm prevention?

I had read that some state boards will not support heartworm test waivers for veterinarians, and if the client decides to go after the veterinarian in the event that their dog suffers an embolism due to the preventative killing microfilaria, the board would find the veterinarian at fault.

What is the position on heartworm test waivers in Florida?

Further, can the veterinarian be sued? No form can insulate someone from being sued, but it would be a good defense.

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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1. Path To Purchase Research, Veterinary Category, conducted on behalf of CareCredit by Rothstein Tauber, Inc., 2016. ©2017 CareCredit

FVMA2017VA

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS VETERINARIANS WANTED

METROWEST VETERINARY CLINIC - ORLANDO: MetroWest Veterinary Clinic in southwest Orlando is seeking a full time veterinarian. We are an established, AAHA accredited, two doctor practice that has served the Orlando area for 25 years. We are currently a Feline Friendly Practice, and we are embracing the Fear Free Initiative. Our standard of care meets or exceeds the expectation of AAHA - and we continually strive for improvement and growth.

Our clinic is equipped with digital whole body and digital dental radiographic equipment, ultrasound, full in-house lab equipment, EKG monitoring, etc. Our established client base, along with an excellent support team, provides a rewarding work environment.

Excellent clinical and surgical skills, as well as strong communication skills and a heart for not only the pet, but also the owner, are what we are looking for. No after hour responsibilities and no emergency shifts. Benefit package includes: CE hours, matching 401K, Health Insurance, Paid Vacation, Professional Dues. Please send your resume to dinah@metrowestvetclinic.com. (3,4/17: ID#6527) ANIMAL EMERGENCY OF HERNANDO : Sun and fun by day, then get to business at night. Enjoy all Hernando County has to offer. Located on Florida's Nature Coast we enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a coastal suburban community while having the convenience of easy access to several larger metropolitan cities and their amenities. We enjoy the gulf beaches, wildlife preserves, and rivers for a multitude of outdoor activities. We have access to multiple golf courses and several major professional sports franchises.

Spring Hill is a growing city with numerous veterinary hospitals that refer to our facility for after-hours care. We practice emergency/trauma care with exceptional customer service. Join our efforts as we provide significant pro bono support to the local wildlife community. Injured hawks, owls, flying squirrels, a multitude of waterfowl, gopher tortoises, and other native wildlife are brought to our hospital by local residents on a daily basis and benefit from our first response efforts on their way to more advanced care or rehabilitation. It's a small part of what we do, but we do make a difference.

Our standards are high both medically and professionally. The support staff is highly skilled and self motivating. We have an in-house diagnostic lab, digital x-ray, K-laser, EKG and Vital Scan. We place great emphasis on balancing professionalism and maintaining an enjoyable place to work. We offer excellent benefits. Email resume to aeoh3496@yahoo.com or contact Debbie at 352-279-1522. (3,4/17; #27547) VETERINARIAN WANTED – NAPLES, FL: Experienced associate veterinarian needed for a very busy small animal practice. Big Cypress Animal Clinic in Naples, FL is a 2nd generation, AAHA-accredited practice with a well-established clientele. Position is full-time including every other Saturday. Looking for energetic, hardworking professional.

Please send resume to bigcypressanimalclinic@gmail.com or contact David Randall at (239) 398-0848. (3,4,5/17: ID#2806) VETERINARIAN WANTED – ZEPHYRHILLS FL: We are a growing, fast paced small animal practice in the Riverview area seeking a part time associate veterinarian. Candidates must demonstrate a positive attitude, be friendly, and outgoing with a good sense of humor.

Communication skills, multi-tasking, and team work are a must.

Our practice focuses on the highest level of professional veterinary care and outstanding customer service. Some of our services include surgery, digital radiology, dentistry including dental x-ray, preventative medicine, acupuncture/herbal therapies, laser therapy, exotic animal medicine, and newly ultrasound. Acupuncture and herbal training is a plus, as we offer both eastern and western medicine. Please contact/ send resume to Kristina.farfante@4pawsvethospital.com (4/17; ID#25922) FULL TIME OR PART TIME VETERINARIAN WANTED - CENTRAL FL: Polk County Animal Hospital is a multi-doctor, small animal practice located in Lakeland, Florida. State of the art equipment, including in-house blood chemistry and digital x-ray. Candidate should be outgoing, friendly, and possess excellent communication skills. The hospital’s mission statement and practice philosophy center around client education, preventive care

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THE FVMA |

and excellence in customer service. Our commitment to our associate's training allows for recent graduates to avoid that feeling of being “thrown to the wolves”. Salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits. No after hour emergencies. Every other weekend off. Contact: Dr. Kecia Howell 7433 U.S. Highway 98 N., Lakeland, FL 33809 (863)660-5251, (863)8531644 (fax), drh@polkcountyanimalhospital.com (4/17; ID#28365) VETERINARIAN WANTED- PORT RICHEY, FL: Animal Emergency of Pasco is seeking an Emergency Veterinarian! We are located in Port Richey - On the Gulf Coast of Florida. We are an after hour practice, with a large referral base. We practice aggressive medicine: with in-house lab & blood bank. We have well trained, self-motivated, and support staff. Doctors are provided a private office / bed, and may nap in between patients. We currently have part time / full time / and relief positions available. Willing to train / mentor the right individual! (727)808-2054, (727)919-2466 animalemergencypasco@msn.com (4/17; #26437) VETERINARIAN WANTED – SARASOTA, FL: Full or Part-time veterinarian needed for well-established clinic in beautiful Sarasota – near the beaches. No emergencies. Competitive salary and benefits. Please send resume to coronamvz@msn.com or contact Dr. Gilberto Corona 941232-3065 (4/17; ID#1416) VETERINARIAN WANTED – JACKSONVILLE, FL: Blue Sky Veterinary Center is seeking full time, permanent, and relief veterinarians. We are a 24-hour practice, including a daytime wellness practice, traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture, and an afterhours, weekend, and holiday ER. We are a full-service facility, offering digital x-ray, therapeutic laser, in house diagnostics, and emergency and critical care services. We would like to add an energetic and enthusiastic new member to our terrific team of dedicated professionals. We offer a flexible schedule and a friendly atmosphere. Compensation dependent on experience. Please contact Dr. Jones at cjones@bluesky.vet. (4/17; ID#813) VETERINARIAN WANTED - INVERNESS FL: We are an AAHA accredited small animal hospital in central Florida, west coast. Inverness has that small town feel but has plenty of amenities, including being about 20 minutes away from swimming with the manatees or tubing down the Rainbow River. And it's only a little over an hour away from Gainesville, Orlando, or Tampa. Current hours are M-F 8-5, one Saturday a month and few emergency shifts. Digital X-Ray, in-house lab, and a great staff. Potential for future buy in. Must currently have Florida Veterinary License and national accreditation. Minimum one year experience preferred. Contact us via email tlcvetinverness@gmail.com, fax 352-726-9134, or phone 352-726-2460. (4/17; ID#6428) VETERINARIAN WANTED – MELBOURNE, FL: Animal Emergency and Critical Care Center of Brevard in Melbourne, Florida is looking for an Emergency Veterinarian to join its team. Minutes from the beach! Previous ER experience required. Generous compensation package including health, 401k, CE and more! Contact: Danielle.DeLapp@nvanet.com or 571-246-7418. (4/17; ID#37871) VETERINARIAN WANTED – WEST PALM BEACH, FL: Seeking a full-time energetic, dedicated, and responsible Associate Veterinarian with good communication talent and extensive internal medicine and surgical skills. We will also consider candidates with a strong desire to learn veterinary medical and surgical skills. Our progressive AAHA-accredited and thoroughly equipped digital animal hospital is located in sunny, beautiful West Palm Beach, Florida. You may take a tour of our digital hospital at www.bestpetdoctor.com. Salary commensurate with experience and skills. E-mail your confidential resume to bestpetdoctor@gmail.com or call Dr. Arun at 561-4397900.(4/17: ID#20276) VETERINARIAN WANTED – ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL: BVE is hiring a full-time veterinarian to our three-doctor practice. We are located near Anna Maria Island. Rotating schedule easily adapted to time off and average of 6 shifts per pay period. We see a wide variety of cases and have specialists available for referral within 20-50 miles.

Latest in house IDEXX blood machines, Doppler BP, ultrasound, digital radiography (with specialist consult), fully equipped surgical suite,

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fantastic support staff. Benefits: 60% Employer paid health insurance, CE allowance (~$1500), Professional Liability, State Licensing, DEA, PTO, Membership dues, VIN, Disability (long and short term) paid 100% by employer after 1 year of employment. Please email me at bradentonERVet@gmail.com (4/17: ID#6150) VETERINARIAN WANTED – NAVARRE, FL: Seeking a PT/FT, dedicated, enthusiastic SA veterinarian to join our team. Our practice is well established and equipped with in house diagnostics, digital radiography and Avimark software. Excellent salary and benefits package. Contact Dr. Sibille at navarreanimal@bellsouth.net or 850-939-1373. (4/17: ID#25843) VETERINARIAN WANTED – TITUSVILLE, FL: Veterinarian wanted for busy companion animal and exotics practice. Base salary $105,000 with a $5,000 signing bonus. Located East of Orlando in Titusville Fl. Youngs Animal Hospital offers a well-trained staff and fully equipped hospital in an 8000-sq. ft. facility. Call or email Dr. Mike Schardein at 502-338-0121/mschardein@hotmail.com. Or call Rachel Robinson the practice manager at 1-321-267-3841. (4/17: ID#23208) VETERINARIAN WANTED – LARGO, FL: The Emergency Care Center at Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialists is looking for an enthusiastic emergency clinician with strong communication skills who works well in a team environment. Today, TBVSECC has grown to include advanced and specialized veterinary services in Dentistry, Dermatology, Emergency & Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Ophthalmology, and Surgery. With a dedicated veterinary healthcare staff of 60+, Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Care Center provides 24-hour compassionate care seven days a week to over 13,000 patients annually.

Our facility is equipped with state of the art laboratory equipment for blood analysis, in-house digital radiology, ultrasound and cardiac ECG as well as more routine diagnostics capabilities. We are primarily a referral hospital with a large referral base. We provide emergency and critical care services for our referrals as well as walk-in emergency cases. We offer an excellent salary, flexible schedules, generous time off and benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan with matching contribution, paid vacation, continuing education, licensing, etc. We are looking for someone who possesses strong communication skills, emergency experience, leadership abilities, an energetic attitude, empathy, compassion and enthusiasm for helping clients and patients alike. Our goal is to offer an exceptional work environment, with regard to personal quality of life. Our ideal candidate is someone who is motivated and willing to grow with us! We are located in Largo, Florida; just 15 minutes from the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Our area has all of the desired conveniences, as well as world class entertainment, professional sports (football, baseball, and hockey), boating, fishing, and 2 airports within convenient driving distance. The Tampa Bay area provides all of the fun of larger cities without the high cost of living or congestion. Please respond to Jennifer Andersen, Practice manager, at (727)531-5752 ext.145 or via e-mail: Emergencycaremgmt@gmail.com, http://www.tbvsecc.com/ (4/17: ID#23304) VETERINARIAN WANTED – NAPLES, FL: Town & Country Animal Hospital of Collier County, Naples FL. We are seeking a full time Associate Veterinarian. T&C is an AAHA accredited two doctor practice that offers a full line of small animal medical, general dentistry and soft tissue surgical services. We also offer a comprehensive range of small animal reproductive services under the direction of a BoardCertified Diplomat of the American College of Theriogenologists. The practice employs a full array of in-house state-of-the-art diagnostic, digital and laser technologies. Interested applicants would mostly likely be more recent graduates with less than five years previous working experience, a genuine interest in soft tissue surgery and participation in small animal reproductive medicine through continuing education and a mentoring process. We offer a fixed annual salary, annual bonus plan participation, comprehensive paid personal and professional benefits, continuing education opportunities and a hospitable environment for work-life balance, long-term professional development and growth.

Please email your resume in confidence to janiechet@hotmail.com or call 239-207-7787 to arrange for an immediate interview. Please visit our website (mynaplesvet.com) for further information about the practice. (4/17: ID#598)

32 | FVMA ADVOCATE

VETERINARIAN WANTED – SUNRISE, FL: Established animal hospital in Sunrise, FL is seeking to add a part-time or full-time Veterinarian to join our team. The ideal candidate must have experience in small companion animal medicine (including surgical proficiency with routine procedures) and enjoys working with a variety of clients.

The candidate will enjoy working with our trained and experienced group of veterinary nurses and support staff. Our multi-doctor facility allows for flexibility in scheduling allowing for a work – life balance. We have an established referral specialist network that allows us to provide comprehensive veterinary care. The practice is equipped with state of the art equipment which allows for confident diagnosis and ease of practicing quality medical care. The candidate should possess great interpersonal skills with both clients and employees. Experience is preferred, but each candidate will be evaluated on a case by case basis; all candidates will be considered. Bi-lingual in Spanish is a plus, but not a must. Competitive salary based on experience, performance/ production bonuses are also available. Please email you resume to rahman@vetfield.com. (4/17: ID#17406) VETERINARIAN WANTED – JACKSONVILLE, FL: Dedicated, motivated, professional Veterinarian to fill 4th associate position at a well-established and equipped small animal hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. We strive to offer superior client service and exceptional patient care. Full-time position; approx. 40 hours per week. Digital x-ray, surgical and therapy laser, acupuncture. Exotic / wildlife interests can be pursued if so desired as we are a wildlife drop off center for NE Florida. Well trained staff to assist with both small animal and exotic patients. Competitive salary with CE allowance, license fees and dues paid, 3 weeks paid leave and 1 week sick leave. Send resume to info@hhahvets.com. (4/17: ID#5675) VETERINARIAN WANTED – ORLANDO, FL: Would you like to work in a fun, but very busy animal hospital in southeast Orlando?

Associate wanted for busy four-doctor practice, needing a fifth doctor.

Experience preferred, but not necessary. Full or part time for the right person! We have an incredible support staff and a fun working environment, grumps and high-strung personalities need not apply!

Visit our website at: www.chickasawtrailah.com. We have Digital x-ray, dental x-ray, laser, and ultrasound. Salary based on experience and is set as a base pay with a percentage of gross included. Please email any interest or questions to: annemealey@aol.com. (4/17: ID#3285) VETERINARIAN WANTED – PINELLAS COUNTY & CLEARWATER, FL: Seeking a full-time Veterinarian: Position with low-stress, predictable schedule, independence & attractive compensation. Animal Clinics are located in Pinellas County and Clearwater. Excellent patient satisfaction scores & veterinarians make a significant impact on pet parents and pets in the community. Clinics focus on immediate, nonlife threatening medical conditions. Please call Ezvet at 305 669-0903.

(4/17: ID#11703) VETERINARIAN WANTED – PALM BAY, FL Malabar Country Vet and Groomer in Palm Bay Florida, located in beautiful east central Florida, minutes from beaches, Space Center and theme parks is looking for a full time associate. We are a fast growing, fast paced, small animal clinic with a country feel (we’ve been known to neuter a few pigs and goats!). We are full service and offer state of the art equipment including digital xray, ultrasound, in-house blood chemistry analyzers, surgical monitors and ultrasonic dental machine. We provide wellness/preventative care medicine, surgery and dentals. We also offer full service and medical needs grooming. We are committed to providing affordable quality care for the pets that enrich the lives of our neighbors and community. And, because we are located in a semi-rural area, we see a wide variety of interesting cases – there is never a dull moment here! We’re looking for a candidate with great compassion and a sense of humor, who wants to work in a busy, but fun loving atmosphere with a great team of support staff. Position entails a full time schedule with every other three day weekend off.

Benefits include a competitive salary, health and supplemental insurance, 401k, paid vacation, licensing fees, CE and AVMA PLI. Please email CV or resume to Kathy Lovaas (practice manager) @ malabarcountryvet@gmail.com (4/17: ID#253) FULL AND PART TIME VETERINARIANS WANTED – DELTONA, FL:

We are seeking energetic, team oriented, experienced veterinarians for a fast paced, high quality veterinary practice. We are a companion animal practice focused on excellent patient care and client service.

Candidate must be friendly, outgoing, positive, and have a professional mannerism and appearance. Must be a self-motivated, team player who is attentive to detail and focused on communication. Candidate should be able to work under stress. We are well equipped with ultrasound, in house labs, therapeutic lasers, dental x-rays and a great staff to help you. Days, nights and weekend shifts available. Please submit resume to deltonamanager@nvcpets.com. May also call (386) 860-5335 with inquiries. Ask to speak with Dr. Oliver or Carrie Ryan. (4/17: ID#38275) VETERINARIAN WANTED – TAMPA BAY, FL: BluePearl Veterinary Partners is seeking a full time ER clinician to join our team in Tampa Bay, Florida. Our BluePearl hospitals in Tampa Bay offer specialty and emergency veterinary care, with ER, Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Ophthalmology, Neurology, Cardiology and Dermatology. We practice high quality, progressive medicine in a collaborative environment. Our case load is high and diverse.

We are looking for a hardworking, motivated, compassionate ER doctor- preferably internship trained. We offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. BluePearl is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For details or to apply to this position, go to https://www.bluepearljobs.com/career-areas/ (4/17: ID#28251) VETERINARIAN WANTED – LAKELAND, FL: Buy in is available. We are a very busy clinic looking for an associate veterinarian dedicated to the highest level of customer service available. This is a completely digital practice. Associate benefits include salary, two weeks paid vacation, health insurance, AVMA & FVMA dues paid yearly, continuing education dues paid, DEA licensing paid.This practice does require a Florida Agriculture License.If you are interested please contact Dr. Robert Irelan or Rhonda at (863)859-9485. We are also reachable at irelanvet@gmail.com and our cell phones at Dr. Irelan (863) 6605717 or Rhonda at (863) 398-6182. New graduates are considered with experience. (4/17: ID#28422) VETERINARIAN WANTED – NORTH PALM BEACH, FL: We are a small animal practice in North Palm Beach. In business since 1966, we moved into a new building in 1999. We have a 6,500 SF modern building along with a ¼ acre doggie day care field. We have a large, well-trained stable staff (average length of employment is 13 years) and we delegate a lot of work to them. We have 4 doctors – 1 is ACVIM, the other 3 did internships – owners have been here since 1991, one associate joined in 1998, the other in 2002. We spend a fair amount of our day discussing cases with each other, as well as researching on VIN and talking to specialists (local or at Antech). We are well equipped – full Idexx in-house laboratory, digital radiography, digital dental radiography, blood pressure, Surgivet monitor, new Aplio MX ultrasound, cold laser, acupuncturist, dog trainer. We have a multitude of board certified specialists in the immediate area that we work with regularly and closely. We have three 24-hour facilities nearby, so seeing emergencies is optional. We have a low-key, harmonious clinic and we value work-life balance. We are looking for a bright, energetic individual (our preference is for someone that has completed an internship, but it is not a requirement). If interested, please contact Michael Berkenblit, DVM at villageac@gmail.com (4/17: ID#8984) VETERINARIAN WANTED – SOUTHWEST FLORIDA: A progressive humane society in Southwest Florida is seeking a full-time veterinarian with an interest in shelter medicine. We operate a Spay/Neuter and Preventive Health Care Clinic. Also, health screening, wellness examinations, and spay/neuter of adoptable shelter animals are among the required duties. Florida license is necessary. Please send resume, or for further information, contact Phil Snyder, Executive Director, Suncoast Humane Society, phone 941-474 7884 or E-mail philsnyder@humane.org (4/17: ID#38487) VETERINARIAN WANTED - GAINESVILLE, FL: Affiliated Veterinary Specialists (AVS) of Gainesville, Florida has an available position for an energized emergency doctor to join our 24-hour care specialty center.

Exceptional interpersonal skills are a must for our group, as we are a fun, young, energetic team that is highly focused on outstanding patient care, exemplary client and referring veterinary service and progressive growth. Your schedule would be an average of three shifts per week

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covering the duties of the emergency service (receiving cases and overseeing hospitalized patients), with rotating weekend duty as required by the schedule; block time off allows for great work/life balance. Salary will be base plus production, and is negotiable. For more information, please see our full ad at: http://acvecc.org/job.php#job_435.

Direct any inquires to Dr. Carolyn McKune DVM DACVAA at carolyn.mckune@avspethospitals.com. (4/17: ID#7923) VETERINARIAN WANTED – LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL: Fulltime Emergency veterinarian in Lakewood Ranch, FL, Animal ER of University park continues to grow. We have an opening for a FT associate. Emergency experience is preferred but not required. We are a family oriented 24hour practice with access to many specialists. Five shifts in 2 weeks is FT allowing for plenty of free time and life balance.

We are employ mainly CVT's and are well equipped. AER enjoys very little turnover. We offer a complete benefits package in addition to non production based salary. Please email to aer4pm@gmail.com or call 941-705-1161 for further information. (4/17: ID#25956) VETERINARIAN WANTED – JUPITER, FL: VECC Specialist And ER Veterinarians Wanted For Our Beautiful New Location in Jupiter, FL!!

Jupiter Pet Emergency & Specialty Center is a 11,600 square foot multispecialty and emergency hospital that offers a variety of opportunities to those candidates that have completed board certification or residency training in Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, and DVM/VMD’s with ER experience; either full time or part time openings available.

Specialties include Surgery, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Cardiology, and Sports and Integrative Medicine and we are equipped with an 8 slice CT, ultrasound, bronchoscopy, endoscopy, oscillometric and Doppler blood pressure capabilities, in-house blood gas, two CBC and chemistry panel stations, numerous monitors, HBOT, as well as 4 surgery suites, 10 exam rooms. Our support staff, 18 strong, is highly qualified and motivated.

We offer excellent benefits. Email CV’s to Tomwdorr@gmail.com or ccolitz@me.com Check us out: http://www.jupiterpet.com/ (4/17: ID#3758) VETERINARIAN WANTED – LAWRENCE, MA: Full or part time Small Animal Veterinary Practice position in Massachusetts available for any qualified PR actioner wishing immediate and short (or long) term employment option in case your employment has been damaged by recent hurricane. Johnson Veterinary Hospital in Lawrence MA is a busy full service general practice; great schedule and staff. No after-hours emergencies. Idexx in hospital clinical pathology equipment along with Idexx reference lab support. Idexx digital radiology, dental radiology, ultrasound service used weekly/as needed. TPLO surgical referrals done regularly. Will cover travel costs, give up to 7500$ signing bonus, 2500 - 3000 $ weekly salary depending on experience . Will expedite and cover costs of MA and DEA licensing. Bilingual English/Spanish is ideal but not required. USDA accreditation ideal but not required. Full time employment allows paid vacation, medical/dental insurance and generous 401-K retirement plan. Email resume and references to Dr Michael A Johnson DVM at michael.johnson327@verizon.net 978 794 0022 phone. 978 794 4356 fax Johnsonveterinaryhospital.com (4/17: ID#38648) VETERINARIAN WANTED – PORT ST. LUCIE: NEW DOG DAYCARE/ KENNEL TO OPEN IN PORT ST. LUCIE. SEEKING EXPERIENCED VET OR CANINE EXPERT TO PROVIDE CONSULTING SERVICES TO OWNERS. CREATIVITY AND AVAILABILITY A MUST. SALARY NEGOTIABLE. PLEASE FORWARD LETTER OR RESUME TO MAXWELL@TILTONROADDOGRETREAT.COM. (4/17: ID#38637) VETERINARIAN WANTED – FT. LAUDERDALE, FL: If relocation is in your future we invite you to consider Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists.

We offer: • Relocation and Sign on Bonus • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance • Ample CE allowance and Vacation Package • SIMPLE IRA plan • Generous Salary Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists, located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida has immediate openings for board certified Cardiologists, Internists, Criticalists and Neurologist/Neurosurgeon.

We are a young, progressive thinking practice serving the Broward, Miami, and Palm Beach counties. Our hospital is 8000 square feet and is equipped with all of the technology expected from specialty medicine including a new 16 slice CT, patient monitoring equipment, long-term ventilators, high frequency ventilators, ultrasound, and

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digital radiography. Also, on site is our full service physical therapy suite with a water treadmill, and a dry and computerized gait evaluation treadmill. Please forward your CV, references and letter of interest to: izaslow@lauderdalevets.com (4/17: ID#26719) VETERINARIAN WANTED – MIAMI, FL: Part-Time Associate Potential for Full Time. Fast growing private practice seeking Bilingual (Spanish) part-time associate with potential to become full-time by end of year. Full service animal hospital, including in-house diagnostics, digital x-ray, surgery suite, laser therapy, and access to ultrasound, CT scan & MRI. Candidate must be able to perform routine surgery, have excellent communication skills, and be able to handle high volume. New grads welcome. Experience with exotics a plus. Please email resume/ CV to Ani Pou (Practice Manager) at PouVetGroup@gmail.com or apply in person at 11549 N. Kendall Drive, Miami FL 33176 (305) 5981425 (4/17: ID#17185)

RELIEF VETERINARIANS

RELIEF VET AVAILABLE – STATE-WIDE: State wide Relief Vet. Small Animal/Exotics experience. English and Spanish proficient.

30 years plus private practice experience. 786-258-2688 email at: docvetmena@gmail.com (4/17: ID#15333)

VET TECHNICIANS & STAFF

TEAM MEMBER WANTED – BRADENTON, FL: Kindness Animal Clinic - Very busy small animal clinic in Bradenton, Florida seeking a full time veterinary technician or assistant. Will consider noncertified technician with adequate experience. Send resume to jobs@kindnessvet.com to apply. (4/17: ID#11535)

PRACTICES FOR SALE OR LEASE

FOR SALE- BEAUTIFUL HOME ON 30 ACRES WITH MEDICAL GRADE DOG KENNEL OUTBUILDINGS!:

34 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Newly listed property in Eustis, FL that comes with 7,500sqft medical grade canine kennel buildings (County permitting in place to operate veterinarian clinic for small and large animals from residence). Housing for 175 dogs, exam rooms, waiting area, and air conditioned office space. In addition to these facilities, this offering features a gorgeous custom home, oversized pool, workshop, and 30 acres of pasture land.

This is a very unique property! A must see! Jeanne Sutton Realtor, jsutton@eragrizzard.com 352-978-1934 https://go.cf4m.com/pw/27101CountyRoad44a (4/17; ID # 38254)

MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - NEW PORT RICHEY, FL: 1. Shoreline Cages (3 across the top and 2 across the bottom) $1,400.00 2. American Standard Scrub Sink – Porcelain $350.00 3. Exam Room Refrigerators $45.00/Each 4. Stainless Surgical Table (2) Side Table $100.00/Each 5. Exam Tables – NEW $250.00/Each 6. Groomer Dryer – Challenge Air 9000 II $395.00 7. Signed and Numbered Prints (Vet Related) 8. Numerous Pet Carriers 9. Microscopes, Littman Stethoscope 10. Summit X-Ray Machine (Non-Digital) $1800.00 Please contact Dr. Steffes at 727-376-4646. (4/17; ID # 4131) EQUIPMENT FOR SALE – JACKSONVILLE, FL: Protector Series 45 KW gaseous automatic backup generator, includes 2 transfers rely boxes: IDEXX vet test chemistry Analyzer 8000, recently refurbished.

IDEXX VetLyte Electrolyte Analyzer comes with new IE fluid Pack.

Best Offer! Contact: turtlevet@yahoo.com (4/17; ID # 6682)

Veterinary Practice Real Estate Brokers, Licensed Nationwide Sales — Buyers Representation — Certified Valuation Analyst

Florida Practices for Sale

We help veterinarians sell and buy practices nationwide.

revenues

New! FL: Sunrise. $795K+gross. Solo dr. 95% doctor produced. YTD revenues up 40% (FL14S)

Florida Practices For Sale

No ER.

New! FL: Miami. $664K+ gross, Solo dr, SA well-equipped prx. No ER. (FL46M)

+gross.

NEW! GA: Doughtery County. Well-equipped, established 30+years. $718K+gross.

SA, solo dr. (GA63A)

ell-

NEW! GA: South. Personal income $260K+. Revenues up 12% YTD. 1.5 dr, wellequipped prx w/ 1+acre. (GA32L)

Jacobson FL17O)

SOLD! Orange County. Congrats to Drs. Steve Beecham and Randy Jacobson on the sale of North Orange Veterinary Hospital to Dr. Bucky Bearden. (FL17O)

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SOLD! Pinellas County. Congrats to Dr. Steve Odland on the sale of The Woodlands Animal Hospital to Dr. Danielle Kitz. (FL63P)

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Palm Beach County: Well established feline/canine practice! Appx. 1,400sf leased facility with 2 exam rooms. Great location with small town feel and big city amenities close by! FL89 Pinellas County: Feline practice, with permits to expand into canine medicine. Appx. 2,400sf modern facility with 2 exam rooms, xray and surgery. Prime location in an economically vibrant community! FL86

Visit psbroker.com to see our full list of practices, or call our experienced staff for a free, confidential conversation to help you find the right practice in the right location.

1610 Frederica Road * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 Toll Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

psbroker.com | 800.636.4740 | info@psbroker.com

Florida Practice Listings!

revenues No ER.

+gross.

ell-

Duval Co.– Solo Dr. 2016 gross $500K, 3800 sq. ft. free standing hospital, digital x-ray, in house lab, 3 exam rooms.

North Florida– Solo Dr. small animal, 2016 gross $887k, Well established, new digital X-ray. High net...Priced Florida Practices for Sale to sell.

Sold-Equine Practice-Central Fl.—Solo Dr. Equine Practice.

Office, 2 trucks, well equipped, experienced staff, 2015 gross New! FL: Sunrise. $795K+gross. Solo dr. 95% doctor produced. YTD revenues $450K. upUnder 40% (FL14S) Contract-Central Florida-House call Practice. Fully equipped mobile unit, 2015 gross of $375K with room to grow.

New! FL: Miami. Florida– $664K+ gross, dr, SAgross well-equipped prx. No Sold-Central Solo Solo Dr. 2016 $860K. State of ER. the (FL46M) art equipment, lease space, great location, great staff.

Greater Tampa– Solo Dr. 2016 gross $435K, Prx.+RE NEW! GA: Doughtery County. Well-equipped, established 30+years. $718K+gross.

Must sell...Price reduced to Real Estate, equipment & inventory SA, solo dr. (GA63A) West-Central Fl.– Solo Dr. 2016 gross $493K. Custom built hospital spacious, well designed. Dr. ready to retire.

NEW! GA: South. Personal income $260K+. Revenues up 12% YTD. 1.5 dr, wellequipped w/ 1+acre.Groups (GA32L)contacting you about buying your Practice?

Areprx Corporate If so, let us help you make sure you get your best deal!!!

Jacobson FL17O)

SOLD! Orange County. Congrats to Drs. Steve Beecham and Randy Jacobson WeOrange are looking for quality practices to list in Florida. on the sale of North Veterinary Hospital to Dr. Bucky Bearden. (FL17O) If your are considering selling your Practice, call us for a complimentary

e of The

SOLD! Pinellas County. Congrats to Dr. Steve Odland on the sale of The Woodlands Animal Hospital to Dr. Danielle Kitz. (FL63P)

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Consultation!!!

Contact Dr. Richard Alker for further practice information.

850.814.9962 Richard@tpsgsales.com 1610 Frederica Road or * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 Toll Showcase Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com Properties of Central Florida, Broker Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker WWW.FVMA.ORG |

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Florida Veterinary Medical Association 7207 Monetary Drive Orlando, FL 32809

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“Simmons & Associates’ advisors provided me with the insight necessary to be successful in this competitive profession.

Their dedication to our profession is unquestioned, as they daily demonstrate the highest degree of ethical standards and professionalism.

Colleagues enlisting their help are assured of a personal touch, a sincere effort to satisfy, and a team of hard-working professionals.”

– Richard Swanson, DVM, Past President, AVMA

Sales & Acquisitions | Valuations | Exit Strategy | Facilitation | Buyers Agency 1­800­333­1984 | www.SimmonsInc.com | Southeast@SimmonsInc.com 1610 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522