Fall 2012

m i c h i g a n v e t e r i n a r y m e d i c a l a s s o c i at i o n

in this issue . . .

Ashley VanderBroek teaches SAMY visitors about animal surgeries.

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Compassion Fatigue

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Partnering to Improve Pet Health

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Call for Award Nominations

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MAHF Funds Two Research Grants

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Mandatory Continuing Education

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Warning: Entering Tick Territory

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15 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Veterinary Hospital’s Website

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Canine Leptospirosis

SAMY Wraps Up Its Summer Tour ith school back in session, our summer as Science, Animals, Medicine and YOU (SAMY) coordinators has unfortunately come to an end. The SAMY program is sponsored by the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association and Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. As coordinators, we started scheduling our summer tour in May and began traveling around Michigan right away. Our main objective has been to expand children’s interest in science and educate the public in the area of veterinary medicine.

This year the exhibit consisted of stuffed

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animal surgery, radiographs, microscopes, bones, pathology specimens, and several new anatomical models. SAMY traveled to a total of 19 locations, including five career fairs, four days at Detroit’s Eastern Market, and 10 county fairs. This exposed a diverse group of people of all ages to science and veterinary medicine. This year we added six new locations to the schedule.

All of the children who came to our booth really enjoyed the display—even the repeat visitors from last year. We really appreciated SAMY being welcomed to many events this summer and the support of the MVMA and MSU CVM for giving us this opportunity. We had a wonderful time meeting so many great people across the state of Michigan.

—Ashley VanderBroek & Jessica Knox, SAMY Student Coordinators

Professional excellence.

Compassionate care.

2144 Commons Pkwy., Okemos, MI 48864-3986 tel (517) 347-4710 · fax (517) 347-4666 email mvma@michvma.org facebook www.facebook.com/ilovemyvet twitter www.michvma.org Published quarterly in March, June, September, and December.

Deadlines are the first of the preceding month. editors Karlene B. Belyea, MBA Sheri Fandel 2012 mvma officers & directors officers Dr. Susan Sayles, President Dr. Ralph Huff, President-Elect Dr. Therese Burns, 1st Vice President Dr. Julie Cappel, 2nd Vice President Dr. Frank Carmona, Immediate Past President Dr. Nancy Frank, AVMA Delegate Dr. Kathleen Smiler, AVMA Alternate Delegate Karlene B. Belyea, MBA, Chief Executive Officer directors representing districts Dr. Matthew Taylor, (1) Southern Dr. David Butts, (2 & 3) Michiana & Southwestern Dr. Melissa Owings, (4) Jackson Dr. Lauren Gnagey, (5 & 9) Washtenaw & Livingston Dr. Shirene Cece-Clements, (6) Wayne Dr. Tari Kern, (7) Macomb Dr. Andrea Switch, (8) Oakland Dr. Jamie Snow, (10) Mid-State Dr. Rebecca Kursch, (11) Western Dr. Kurt Dunckel, (12) Saginaw Dr. Kevin Stachowiak, (13) Thumb Dr. Jacob Langendorfer, (14) Northeastern Dr. Bruce Cozzens, (15) Northern directors representing associations Dr. Mike Thome, MI Equine Practitioners Dr. Steven Bailey, Southeastern Michigan VMA at-large directors Dr. Jeremy Boge, Food Animal Dr. Charles DeCamp, MSU CVM Dr. Lori Penman, Lab Animal Medicine layout/design Charlie Sharp/Sharp Des!gns, Lansing, MI printing & mailing BRD Printing, Lansing, MI ▪ The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association represents the veterinary profession in Michigan, advances the knowledge and standards of its membership, and promotes the science, practice, and value of veterinary medicine for the benefit of animal and human health.

news notes Pet food recalls and Franck’s prescription recall Problems with food from Diamond Pet Foods may be more widespread than originally thought after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced contaminated dog food had been found at a second Diamond manufacturing facility. According to the FDA, a surveillance sample of Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult Lamb and Rice collected by the state of Ohio from the Diamond Meta, Missouri plant yielded a positive for Salmonella Liverpool. The strain from the Missouri plant is not the same strain of Salmonella found at the Gaston, South Carolina plant which has led to a human outbreak of the illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 22 people have been infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Infantis that has been linked to contaminated dog food produced by manufacturer Diamond Pet Foods. Diamond Pet Foods is facing its first lawsuit in the recall of its Salmonellacontaminated pet foods.

Dogs aren’t the only ones in danger from the recent recall of dry pet food from Diamond Pet Foods. The recall was expanded to include some cat foods, as well. The affected brands are Kirkland Signature products, manufactured by Diamond. The products are Kirkland Signature Super Premium Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula (Best Before Dec. 9, 2012–Jan. 31, 2013) and Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Cat Formula (Dec. 9, 2012–Jan. 31, 2013).

Franck’s Pharmacy issued an urgent

recall of all its sterile veterinary and human prescriptions distributed between November 2011 and May 2012. The recall was prompted after a FDA inspection revealed the presence of microorganisms and fungal growth at the facility. The recall affects any and all sterile veterinary and human prescriptions distributed by the Florida-based Franck’s from November 21, 2011 to May 21, 2012.

For more information on these recalls, visit MVMA’s Pet Food Recall Information page under “News & Information” at www. michvma.org or go to www.fda.gov.

New guidelines for veterinary CPR After years of lacking consensus on the proper way to conduct CPR for dogs and cats, a group of more than 100 boardcertified veterinary specialists released the first evidence-based guidelines for CPR. The guidelines include algorithms and drug-dose charts, as well as the method by which the new guidelines were identified.

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Perform 100–120 chest compressions per minute of one-third to one-half of the chest width, with the animal lying on its side.

Ventilate intubated dogs and cats at a rate of 10 breaths per minute, or at a compression to ventilation ratio of 30:2 for mouthto-snout ventilation.

Perform CPR in 2-minute cycles, switching the “compressor” each cycle.

Administer vasopressors every 3–5 minutes during CPR.

Other guidelines pertain to how clinicians should be trained, how to perform CPR on dogs of different breeds and sizes, what drugs to give when, and what follow-up care to provide.

Join us on Facebook & Twitter!

MVMA’s Facebook page has over 1,500 fans. We are also on Twitter—and you can join the more than 1,200 followers receiving our tweets. Don’t miss out on breaking news and important information posted daily on both www.facebook. com/ilovemyvet and www.twitter.com/michiganvma.

board of directors update

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presentation to a group from the West Michigan Academy and it was very well-received.

PROGRESS ON STRATEGIC PLAN

Dr. Kevin Stachowiak has been nominated for MVMA’s Second Vice President position and MVMA is pleased to have such a dynamic and motivated future officer. The Leadership Development Committee revised the “MVMA Overview of Activity and Time Commitment for Executive Committee Positions” and the “MVMA Process for Selecting a Second Vice President.”

he MVMA Board of Directors met on July 22, 2012. Highlights of this meeting are included below.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

MVMA held the first Power of Ten Leadership Academy sessions on June 29–30 jointly with the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC).

Topics included diversity, communication skills, media training, and the Myers Briggs personality/behavioral assessment tool. The Academy will meet again for a legislative day in September and at the Animal Welfare Conference on November 19.

ANIMAL WELFARE

The Animal Welfare Committee has been working to put together another Animal Welfare Conference on November 19, 2012.

(See “Spotlight on Upcoming MVMA Conference” for more information.)

Karlene Belyea gave the “Building Bridges: Developing Good Relationships Between Veterinarians and Animal Care and Control Agencies” presentation at the CATalyst Council Top to Top meeting in May in Santa Monica. The national group that included veterinarians, shelter representatives, humane societies, rescue groups, and others were impressed with the presentation and would like to incorporate it into the resources that they are continuing to develop to help veterinarians, shelters, and rescue groups communicate and work more effectively together. Dr. Cathy Anderson also gave the

above: MVMA’s Power of Ten Leadership Academy (left to right): Drs. Dana Tatman-Lilly, Krista Cook, Jean Hudson, Jackie Ponstein, Angela Lusty, Ryan Carpenter, Kristin Spink-Hauger, Charlotte Lucas, and Frank Carmona (team leader). Missing from the photo: Dr. Marcia Backstrom.

THE 2ND VICE PRESIDENT POSITION

Task Force will work with consultants to draft a new version of MVMA’s Investment Policy Statement.

JOIN THE MVMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Dr. Ralph Huff gave an update on current legislation discussed by MVMA’s Legislative Advisory Committee. It does not appear that any of the current issues affecting animals or veterinarians will move. The biggest focus of the Legislative Advisory Committee at the moment is pursuing mandatory CE for veterinarians and veterinary technicians in the future (see separate article).

INVESTMENT TASK FORCE

The MVMA Board unanimously approved utilizing the services of Wells Fargo Advisors as MVMA’s new investment advisors. The

district

The terms of four District Directors will expire at the end of 2012. MVMA members in a district elect the District Director to represent their respective district. Nominations may come from the constituent association located in the district or by petition of 20 members from the district. Constituent associations are encouraged to nominate one MVMA member for a vacant position.

If there is only one nominee for a vacant position, no ballot will be required. Director terms are for three years and directors may serve no more than two consecutive full terms. The terms of the directors from several MVMA districts will expire at the end of the year (see chart below). Nominations should be sent to the MVMA Leadership Development Committee, c/o the MVMA office, by October 31, 2012.

association

director

Michiana & Southwestern

Dr. David Butts

No

6

Wayne

Dr. Shirene Cece-Clements

No

8

Oakland

Dr. Andrea Switch

Yes

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Northwestern

Dr. Jacob Langendorfer

Yes

2&3

eligible for 2nd term

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(a) The emotional burden that health care providers may experience as a result of overexposure to traumatic events that patients are experiencing, (b) A state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion caused by long-term involvement in emotionally demanding situations.

Compassion fatigue has been also described in the literature as a special type of burnout. Burnout includes elements of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced productivity.

IS THIS YOUR LIFE?

Compassion Fatigue things we don’t discuss . . . aintaining psychological well-being has become a major problem in the veterinary profession. The literature regarding the presence and effects of compassion fatigue and burnout among veterinarians continues to increase. Professional issues, such as dealing with difficult or upset clients and employees, and the emotional issues surrounding animal care, pain, disease, and euthanasia can be challenging. Most veterinarians also manage a small business and, therefore, deal with finances, staffing, and regulatory requirements. This combination of stresses, minus the appropriate coping mechanisms to deal with them, can lead to compassion fatigue and/or burnout.

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Susan Cook, DVM, MS, DACLAM Maria Iliopoulou, DVM, MS, PhD candidate

DEFINITIONS

The term compassion fatigue has been defined as: 4

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According to the current literature, burnout is an occupational hazard. Practitioners often sacrifice their health and private lives in an effort to help clients. Professionals from the care and helping professions are at a higher risk and the need to “care for our carers” is very well established. It is critical to recognize the signs of burnout. A key finding is emotional exhaustion. Other signs include chronic physical and mental fatigue, cynicism, detachment, headaches, anxiety, inefficiency, frequent illness, insomnia, isolation, impatience, substance abuse, and absenteeism. Even though many of us expect to approach our careers exhibiting high motivation, mental alertness, vigor and sharp perception, chronic excessive stress can negatively impact our physical, emotional, and mental health.

DOES THIS LIST LOOK FAMILIAR? n

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Overloaded work schedule (too little time and too few resources) Breakdown of the workplace community Frustration with the work environment Reduced profits Favoritism in the system of evaluation, promotion, and benefits Workplace conflicts

MANAGING BURNOUT

Strategies for managing the stresses associated with veterinary practice include Physical Self-Care, Psychological Self-Care, Emotional Self-Care and Boundary Setting.

Experts agree that daily physical,

psychological and emotional self-care provide key coping mechanisms that help to reduce stress and promote a balanced life.

The practice of boundary setting is highly significant for the veterinary profession. It seems important to be able to leave the professional role at work at the end of the day.

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SELF-CARE

Check that tasks are finished, and documentation completed. Deal with outstanding issues, complete if essential, or delegate, or write it down to do tomorrow Formally acknowledge when the work day is completed, and, if part of an on-call roster, remember who is on call and remind yourself that you have handed over clinical responsibility to that person.

Remember what went well in the day, and what didn’t, and, rather than dwell on the negatives, focus on the positive outcomes of the day. Acknowledge you did your best with the resources available to you.

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been developed with clients giving yourself permission to grieve when you lose a patient surrounding yourself with supportive people, and if you decide to seek help, identifying a counselor or psychologist who understands compassion fatigue and is familiar with the veterinary profession.

n Physical self-care requires good nutrition, Training veterinary professionals to have exercise, preventive medical support, time good husbandry, management, business for fun (dance, sing, massages), adequate and clinical skills does not necessarily sleep, time for vacations, holidays from equip them with good coping skills. Specific technology, and staying home when sick. programs should be developed and Recommended techniques to adimplemented for anyone at risk for vance psychological self-care include periods of self-reflection. Keeping One of the biggest favors any veterinarian compassion fatigue and burnout.

Counselors, psychologists, or social a journal, experiencing something can do for his or her patients, colleagues, workers with expertise in the area novel, decreasing stress in your and family is to take self care and stress of compassion fatigue should be life, listening to your thoughts and 1 recruited to assist in developing feelings, reading literature unrelated control seriously. —Dr. Lisa Miller (JAVMA News, 2004) worthwhile educational materials for to work, being social, receiving from veterinarians. others, being curious, saying no to n Say your goodbyes, giving closure for now extra responsibilities (when possible), all create avenues for psychological wellbeing. to both collegial and client relationships.

Comments on this article are solicited and can be emailed anonymously to mvma@michvma.org. n Take off your name badge or develop To promote emotional self-care it is important to spend time with people and other personal rituals that signify that animals whose company you enjoy. Make work is now completed. n Make your journey home a separation time to stay in contact with important NOTES 1. Huggard, P.K. & Huggard, E.J. (2008). When the Caring people in your life, to praise yourself, to between work and private life, even if you Gets Tough: Compassion fatigue and veterinary care. love yourself, to revisit favorite books and live on the premises.

VetScript, May, 14–16. p.1. n Try hard to not take work home, but if movies, to seek out comforting places and 2. DeGoioia, P., and Lau, E. 2011. Veterinarians prone to suicide: Fact or fiction? For The VIN News Service, May things. Allow yourself to cry, laugh, play you must, create a specific space for your 9, 2011. Available at http://news.vin.com/VINNews. and, when needed, to express your outrage professional work and only use it for this aspx?articleId=18511. in constructive ways. purpose.

3. Morris, P. (2009). Encounters with “Death Work” in Vet-

erinary Medicine: An Ethnographic Exploration of the

BOUNDARY SETTING

CONCLUSIONS

As we transition from professional life to private life, we should acknowledge the significance of boundary setting. Even though our work in the veterinary field is very rewarding, and for most of us a dream come true, it can also be complex, challenging and even sad. It is vital to acknowledge sadness and then let it go: “The sadness belongs to your patients and their families and it is not yours to take away.” When this becomes difficult, it is valuable to talk with trusted friends and colleagues.

One technique for disengaging from work is the “Personal Debriefing Model”:

If your life, or someone else’s life, reminds you of the phenomenon of burnout or compassion fatigue, it is vital to address it. Denial is the most common reaction to compassion fatigue among veterinarians.

Most importantly, veterinarians have an obligation to support colleagues, employees and a personal obligation to care for oneself.

Practical approaches to reduce chronic stress may be:

Medical Practice of Euthanasia. A Dissertation Submitted to the Department of Sociology and Anthropology in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts.

4. Huggard, P.K. & Huggard, E.J. (2008). When the Caring Gets Tough: Compassion Fatigue and Veterinary Care.

VetScript, May, 14–16, p.1.

5. Portnoy, D. (2011). Burnout and Compassion Fatigue; Watch for the signs. Health Progress. www.chausa. org. July–August 2011, available at http://www.chausa. org/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&Ite mID=4294968930.

6. Huggard, P.K. & Huggard, E.J. (2008). When the Caring Gets Tough: Compassion Fatigue and Veterinary Care.

VetScript, May, 14–16.

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organizing staff meetings to discuss concerns and feelings reassessing the boundaries that have

7. Ibid., p.4.

8. Ibid., p.5.

9. Ibid., p.3.

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STATE VETERINARIAN’S BULLETIN

How would you rescue a one-ton animal? ave you ever experienced, heard, or read stories from colleagues about a back-road horse trailer accident? Has a client’s horse ever been stuck in a muddy swamp and needed professional help to remove it? Cattle stuck in drainage ditches, video footage of a cattle trailer wreck, horses trapped in water, injured animals struggling to escape—what would you do?

This past spring, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) hosted a training for 96 animal control officers, county emergency management planners, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, members of animal rescue groups, police officers, public health officials, veterinarians and their technicians at a Technical Large Animal Emergency Response (TLAER) training course. The Michigan Veterinary Corps, and TLAER founder and instructor Dr. Rebecca Gimenez, trained these professionals in Lansing, Michigan in April 2012.

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“Large animals are different—they do not follow rules of physics or chemistry—but they do have well developed instincts of fight or flight under fear and stress,” says TLAER’s Dr. Rebecca Gimenez. “Innovation is often required by rescuers as each incident and rescue operation is different than the last one.”

Disaster avoidance, animal well-being, and instruction are the center points of the TLAER courses. Once these mishaps were covered, the focus of the training then shifted to the unusual and highly technical rescues of past events, such as floods and livestock stuck in mud—how to respond and how to care for the subjects while responding.

After working together for two days in mixed teams, trainees left with an appreciation of the difficulties faced by their professional colleagues while responding to large animal traumatic events. They developed an understanding of how to work together and utilize everyone’s strengths for a positive outcome.

“Learn to trust those who know how to keep you safe, while you help the animal,” said Dr. Mike Neault, MDARD Veterinary Emergency Response Program Manager.

“Everyone has a job, and it’s best to focus only on what your task or job is during a rescue.”

MDARD highly recommends large animal practitioners seek out and take this course, and once trained, contact their local county sheriff ’s office and make them aware of the knowledge acquired at the training. Large animal veterinarians, as part of an animal rescue team, can provide important medical advice in an emergency situation.

“Be willing to be on-call for such emergencies; and you may just be the only one on the scene that can save the animal’s life,” Neault said.

“While taking this course, veterinarians will learn how rescue teams work, and how to think three steps ahead of the operation, so that the animal has what it needs during and after the rescue,” Neault said.

The Technical Large Animal Emergency Response training course can be found at http://www.tlaer.org/TLAER_Schedule_ Course_Information.php.

—Bridget Patrick, MDARD, Risk Communicator

Partnering to improve pet health he good news is that there have never been so many pets in American homes, providing families endless hours of joy and companionship. Our pets also benefit from the best veterinary doctors and technology ever available. Sadly, though, evidence shows that the health of our nation’s pets is declining. Many of them aren’t as healthy as they could be—or as they should be.

A number of factors are leading to fewer veterinary visits, and most experts agree that a decrease in veterinary visits can be directly linked to an increase in preventable medical conditions such as dental disease, heartworms, obesity, and ear infections.

We, as veterinarians, are best positioned to improve pet health. We do a great job serving our clients and taking care of pets when they are sick, but we haven’t maximized our opportunity to prevent these same pets from getting sick in the first place.

In an effort to boost overall pet health and increase the public’s value of veterinary care, a team of veterinary professionals and leaders from both academia and industry formed Partners for Healthy Pets, an initiative with the ultimate goal of ensuring

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Visit MVMA’s New

that pets receive the preventive healthcare they deserve through regular visits to the veterinarian.

This powerful and unique coalition of 20 organizations, which was announced at the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Annual Convention in 2011, provides valuable resources for the veterinary practice team to promote and better practice preventive veterinary medicine through a variety of resources. A foundation piece of this effort is a set of healthcare guidelines jointly produced by the AVMA and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). The AAHA-AVMA Canine and Feline Preventive Healthcare Guidelines identify all of the components of a comprehensive program of preventive care, serving as a valuable tool for both the veterinary practice team and the pet owner.

Partners for Healthy Pets continues to reach out to veterinary practitioners around the country to broaden awareness and boost veterinarian buy-in and participation.

Veterinarians attending any of the major conferences—the AVMA convention, the North American Veterinary Conference, the Western Veterinary Conference, or the

—Janice L. Trumpeter, DVM, ASVMAE Immediate Past President

ake a moment to visit MVMA’s new YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/ MichiganVMA. We hope you find it informative and entertaining. We’ve currently put up videos on the following:

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Channel!

AAHA Yearly Conference—are able to attend educational programs to help familiarize themselves with the guidelines and to learn how they are best implemented. We expect even more such programs to be rolled out at state and local meetings around the country.

In 2013, Partners for Healthy Pets will launch a campaign geared directly toward pet owners that will help build awareness about preventive care and how important it is to overall pet health.

The ultimate goal of Partners for Healthy Pets is to improve the overall health of our pets by building knowledge and strengthening the relationship between veterinarians and pet owners. For more information about Partners for Healthy Pets, the preventive healthcare guidelines and what you can do to promote preventive veterinary pet healthcare with your clients, be sure to visit the Partners website at partnersforhealthypets.org. Once there, veterinarians can sign up for updates and other information as new resources become available. Registering is as easy as providing your email address.

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How to Set Up and Implement Animal Welfare Audits Animal Cops Detroit: The Veterinarian’s Role in Small Animal Cruelty, Part 1 Animal Cops Detroit: The Veterinarian’s Role in Small Animal Cruelty, Part 2 Who Has the Better Welfare: The Barn Cat or the House Cat? Where are All the Happy Cows? What does a Happy Cow Look Like and Why Does it Matter?

How Important is Normal Behavior for an Animal’s Welfare?

Asking Animals What They Feel: Preference Testing and Motivation Practicing Equine Medicine Do You Want to Be a Veterinarian?

Veterinarians in Public Practice Homer and his Healthy Heart: The Importance of Wellness Visits for Your Pet Specialty and Emergency Care Practice in Veterinary Medicine Careers in Veterinary Medicine

Watch for more videos coming soon! If you have videos you’d like to share with us, please contact us at (517) 347-4710 or mvma@michvma.org.

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members in the news n The MSU College of Veterinary Medicine presented the first Rooker Award for Excellence in Equine Practice to Dr. James Rooker at the Michigan Veterinary Conference. The award will be given annually to an outstanding Michigan equine practitioner that has devoted his or her career to the advancement of equine veterinary medicine and the training of future generations of equine practitioners and professionals. Dr. Rooker is an adjunct professor at MSU CVM and also owns and operates Rooker Veterinary Hospital in Davidson. He is an excellent role model and mentor for many high school, undergraduate and veterinary students, as well as veterinary practitioners. n The American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) presented an award to Dr. Kimberlee Buck at its 17th Annual Symposium in San Antonio, Texas. This award was given to honor Dr. Buck’s dedicated service, devotion and commitment to ABVP as the

Chelsea Render (left) and Senator Debbie Stabenow

Outreach Chair. In this role she has overseen the implementation of numerous initiatives including the formation of online study groups to assist those interested in and applying for ABVP certification. Dr. Buck is a Diplomate of the ABVP in both Avian Practice and Canine and Feline Practice. In addition, she chairs MVMA’s Small Animal Seminar Series Planning Committee and is a past MVMA Board member. She owns and operates Frankenmuth-Birch Run Veterinary Hospital in Birch Run, Michigan. n Senator Debbie Stabenow, Chair of the US Senate Ag, Nutrition and Forestry Commit-

Call for Award Nominations he MVMA Awards Committee is requesting nominations for 2012 MVMA awards. This is the association’s opportunity to recognize someone who has contributed significantly to the veterinary profession or the animals and clients it serves. Nominations should be accompanied by supporting information. MVMA awards include:

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MVMA Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award Established in 1970 as the Distinguished Life Membership Award, it was retitled in 1992. The award is

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conferred upon only a few individuals of the highest professional caliber who have completed thirty-five consecutive years of active membership and have partaken actively in association obligations and otherwise served the veterinary profession in an exemplary fashion at the state and/or national levels. This is the highest award conferred by the MVMA. W. Kenneth McKersie Service Award Established in 1956 as the MVMA Service Award, the award was renamed in memory of the late Dr. McKersie in 1989. It is conferred upon a member of the MVMA for cumulative service and accomplishments benefiting the profession of veterinary medicine, the community, and the Association. Only the Distinguished Life Achievement Award ranks above it in

tee, held a hearing s.3239 the “Egg Products Inspection Act Amendments of 2012.”

MVMA Student Affiliate Chelsea Render took a leave of absence from MSU CVM and has spent the last 14 months working with Senator Stabenow on the US Senate Ag, Nutrition and Forestry Committee. She has had intimate involvement with development of the new Farm Bill and has been involved behind the scenes with s.3239. Chelsea went to DC in the summer of 2011 as part of the MSU CVM Summer Food Systems Fellowship Program which was supported in part by MVMA. Congratulations, Chelsea, on the great work you’ve done nationally!

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significance of recognition by one’s peers as members of the MVMA. MVMA Public Media Award This award is to recognize a person or organization within the broadcasting or publishing professions for activities that benefit the veterinary profession or the ideals associated with it.

MVMA Business Service Award This award is conferred upon a company that, by its efforts and activities, has promoted the profession of veterinary medicine in any of its many facets in a way that qualifies for an award.

MVMA Public Service Award To qualify for this award, the nominee must be a political official or organization whose efforts have significantly benefited the veterinary profession.

n MVMA’s own Chief Executive Officer, Karlene Belyea, was sworn in as the new President of the American Society of Veterinary Medical Association Executives (ASVMAE) during the AVMA Convention in San Diego in early August. ASVMAE is a network of association professionals who are dedicated to supporting and enhancing the efforts of organized veterinary medicine.

The association exists to promote communication, cooperation, and learning among the executives of the veterinary medical associations in North American. Ms. Belyea has been active in ASVMAE for many years as a Board member, Secretary, Chair of the Bylaws Committee, Chair of the Power of Ten Leadership Initiative, and a member of multiple other committees/task forces. In 2008, she received the Executive of the Year Award from ASVMAE.

MAHF Funds Two Research Grants VMA’s nonprofit arm, the Michigan Animal Health Foundation (MAHF), is a charitable trust founded in 1969 to give veterinarians and their clients an opportunity fund critical research that benefits the health and welfare of animals.

Over the years, the foundation has been involved in a wide variety of research projects for both small and large animals.

The MAHF Board of Trustees met in July and evaluated six excellent proposals. Due to limited funds, trustees were only able to provide grants for two of the research projects:

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ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES TO

n MVMA Student Affiliate Erin Richards recently received one of the $3,000 Business Aptitude Awards from Simmons Education Fund. The award recognizes students who distinguish themselves by demonstrating a keen interest in and aptitude for the pursuit of business excellence in veterinary medicine. Congratulations, Erin!

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MVMA Community Service Award This award is to honor an animal-related organization or individual, who is not a veterinarian, for contributions that have significantly benefited society.

MVMA Merit Award This award may be presented to any person who has devoted an extraordinary amount of time and effort to a particular project or activity of benefit to the MVMA and/or the veterinary profession.

Additional information and a nomination form can be found at http://michvma.org/displaycommon. cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=65. Send nominations to the MVMA office by November 1, 2012.

TAIL-DOCKING IN FEEDLOT CATTLE HOUSED IN SLATTED-FLOOR FACILITIES

Tail docking in feedlot cattle is a procedure used in many slatted floor feedlot operations to mitigate tail injuries. Animal advocacy groups are in opposition to tail docking due to the perceived discomfort that the animals are experiencing. However, little research has been conducted on the benefits of tail docking. This study will compare the health and performance of cattle with docked and non-docked tails and will look at an alternative solution to tail docking—shaving tails. 168 Holsteins calves will be randomly allocated to one of three groups: (1) tails docked, (2) tails not docked, or (3) tails shaved. Health and performance of each group will be evaluated to help us make scientifically informed decisions on the benefits, detriments and alternative methods for tail docking in the beef cattle industry and to improve our understanding of the impact of modern livestock systems.

CHARACTERIZATION OF UROTHELIAL EICOSANOID EXPRESSION IN CATS WITH IDIOPATHIC CYSTITIS

Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is an inflammatory disorder that affects a quarter to a half million cats annually.

It is the most common urinary disorder of young to middle-aged cats and is characterized by frequent, bloody, and painful urinations, house-soiling, and in some cases, life-threatening urinary obstruction. Although clinical and light microscopic features of FIC are well characterized, underlying causative factors in the pathogenesis remain obscure.

Recent studies, however, suggest that FIC may be associated with unique changes in urothelial prostaglandin and leukotriene (eicosanoid) expression. The objective of this study is to further characterize cats with FIC or urolithiasis and determine differences in cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, and 15-prostaglandin dehydrogenase expression in urinary bladder tissues of cats with FIC, health cats, and cats with urolith-induced cystitis. The long-range goal is to determine causative factors in the etiopathogenesis of FIC in order to develop safe and effective means of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

In order to continue funding important research to benefit animals, MAHF needs your support! By sending a donation, you express your understanding of the wonderful bond we share with our animal friends. Veterinarians can make donations in their clients’ deceased pets’ name by purchasing sympathy cards which are sent to the client’s home. The foundation also serves as the contributory vehicle to recognize deceased members of friends and colleagues. When contributions reach $500, the member’s name is engraved on a plaque proudly displayed in the MVMA office. Veterinarians and their clients can also leave a legacy through planned giving with a simple bequest in a will.

For more information on ways to make a difference, contact Karlene Belyea at Belyea@michvma.org or visit the MAHF pages of the MVMA website at www. michvma.org. the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

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MVMA has been working to get mandatory continuing education approved for veterinarians and veterinary technicians for over 25 years. Michigan is currently the only state that does not have some form of mandatory CE in place for these professions.

Under the Granholm Administration, the Board of Veterinary Medicine (BVM) was very close to getting approval on a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Model.

When Governor Snyder took office, in an

(BVM) had been pursuing CE/CPD using information provided in the general provisions of the Public Health Code which state that individual Boards can require and enforce CE. This recommendation would

MVMA TO EMBARK ON A CAMPAIGN FOR

Mandatory Continuing Edu effort to streamline government functions, he asked the Office of Regulator Reinvention (ORR) to review all regulated professions.

The ORR submitted a lengthy report to Governor Snyder containing 63 recommendations for improving Michigan’s occupational licensing regulations while continuing to protect Michigan’s citizens. In addition, the ORR recommended the rescission of all or parts of 23 separate occupational rules and the amendment or revision of many more.

Governor Snyder has reviewed the recommendations and the ORR and Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) are now working toward implementing the recommendations.

Although veterinary medicine was not named, we are affected. Recommendation #a4 in the report talks about continuing education and continuing professional development. It states that all new CE and CPD requirements should be authorized in statute for the specific occupation. Under current law, all licensed medical professions have CE requirements through administrative rules. The Board of Veterinary Medicine 12

the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

require any health profession currently without CE to each amend the Public Health Code. This would require a significant change in the Code and create two classes of health care providers in Michigan.

MVMA’s lobbyist believes that MVMA has a good case to be made for mandatory CE and that the timing is right to pursue this initiative. There are several models to monitor mandatory CE but the least timeconsuming for staff at the state would be for individuals to verify that they have gotten the required CE and then staff audit 1–2% of licensees for proof. MVMA is exploring several options on solving the CE problem and met with the Governor’s staff in late July.

One difficult problem in the CE debate is the additional cost to the state for CE implementation and enforcement. The Legislature has consistently required all new licensure programs be adequately funded. Therefore, it has been suggested that licensing fees for veterinarians and veterinary technicians be increased by $20 per person to cover the cost of an additional full-time employee at the State to administer the program. The BVM

was recommending 20 hours every two years for veterinarians and 10 hours every two years for veterinary technicians in the CPD model previously drafted. MVMA’s Board of Directors voted to support 30 hours of CE every two years for veterinarians.

MVMA’s Legislative Advisory Committee created a subcommittee to work on drafting a solution to implement CE in Michigan.

They plan to create very narrowly drafted legislation, or administrative rules to pres-

ucation ent to the Administration and Legislature.

Whatever approach is taken will require significant time, expense, and effort. MVMA will be promoting the CE solution while soliciting VET-PAC donations throughout the fall with the solution being formally “kicked off ” at the Veterinary Issues Briefing on March 19, 2013, when MVMA will have legislators available for discussion.

In the meantime, VET-PAC needs your support!

HOW CAN I SUPPORT VET-PAC AND THE MANDATORY CE INITIATIVE?

As a veterinary leader, you know how important it is for our profession to impact public policy and awareness on animal health and welfare, zoonotic diseases, and small business issues. VET-PAC is the nonpartisan political arm of the MVMA. Its primary purpose is to raise funds that are then contributed to campaigns of candidates running for public office in Michigan. When we pool our resources and support candidates who will listen to the concerns of our profession, the voice of the veterinary community becomes

more powerful. VET-PAC’s strength comes from Michigan veterinarians who contribute their resources, enabling MVMA to educate and work with policy makers in our state.

Strong legislative support will be needed to make any CE solution reality!

In order to continue this, we need your help. We must maintain funds in our Political Action Committee to show our partners in the legislature that we mean business. A modest contribution on your part can empower the MVMA. Any amount is welcome. Your contributions have never been more valuable, or will be more effective, than this election year.

Please send your contribution by personal check now made out to VET-PAC, 2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864.

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REASONS TO SUPPORT MANDATORY CE FOR VETERINARIANS AND LVTs

The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association supports mandatory continuing education to advance the knowledge and standards of practice for veterinarians and veterinary technicians in Michigan.

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The people of Michigan deserve the right to the highest quality health care medical professionals can provide. This right extends to citizens who must depend on veterinarians to provide health expertise for all animal industries, community health and companion animals.

Despite the tremendous advances in the medical and surgical care of animals made in the last decades, animal and human health are still under constant threat from new and reemerging diseases.

New medicines and technology provide powerful tools to combat such diseases, but they must be used by professionals with proper training. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to the development of resistant organisms that impose a risk to humans. If drugs are used improperly, they may be fatal to animals or their residues may enter human food. New

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diagnostic and surgical procedures use high tech equipment that demands sophisticated training.

In this time of potential bioterrorism and newly emerging infectious and foreign animal diseases (e.g., mad cow disease, avian flu, West Nile virus), the veterinarian is the first line of defense. Keeping up with this new information that may not have been presented in veterinary school is extremely important.

Because the veterinarian is in the first line of defense in the face of many potential zoonotic disease-related public health problems in Michigan (e.g., brucellosis, tuberculosis, rabies, equine encephalitis), the veterinarian must continue to be informed through CE of the status and his or her role in the control of these disease situations.

Michigan is the only state that does not require CE as a requirement of relicensure. This is an embarrassment to the State of Michigan as well as the veterinary profession.

Requiring professional continuing education makes a simple, but important, statement to the public that we genuinely care about providing the best care to their animals and that we are earning their trust.

Because of the diversity of our profession, veterinarians largely must regulate themselves. Expected quality of care by the public, interest in the welfare of our patients, and penalties imposed by the Board of Veterinary Medicine drive the veterinarian to improve standards of practice though continuing education.

The public consistently rates veterinary medicine as one of the most respected and trusted professions.

Over 80% of MVMA members have indicated via surveys that they support mandatory CE. The MVMA has been committed to mandatory CE for over 25 years. the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

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WARNING!

Entering TiCK T Territory

250

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American dog tick

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50 Blacklegged tick

Lone star tick Brown dog tick

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

JUN

JUL

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hink you don’t have to worry about ticks? Think again. Michigan is being invaded. Tick populations across the state are growing and expanding into new territories. On the surface, the tiny arachnids are creepy little critters (they do feed on blood, after all), but of more significant concern is that ticks are vectors of pathogens that cause human and animal disease.

The five most common ticks found on people and companion animals in Michigan are: Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick), Ixodes scapularis (blacklegged tick, formerly known as the deer tick), Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick), Ixodes cookei (woodchuck tick), and Rhipecephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick). These ticks can carry several diseases including: anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, Powassan encephalitis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tularemia.

A team of experts at the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health (DCPAH), part of the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, is protecting human and animal health with their work in Immunodiagnostics/Parasitology. In fact, the One Health initiative is alive and well in Michigan. Researchers from the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources conduct ongoing research on Lyme disease ecology and emergence in Michigan. Both MSU groups routinely collaborate with the Michigan Departments of Community Health (MDCH), and Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) as well as other state agencies. University and State partners recently discussed data for ticks and tick-borne diseases in Michigan.

At DCPAH, Dr. Steve Bolin, Immunodiagnostics/Parasitology section chief, encourages veterinarians at mixed practice and large animal clinics to remember their equine clients when thinking about ticks. “Much of the veterinary focus on ticks is for dogs, but horses are also susceptible to tick-borne disease, especially Lyme, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis,” Bolin says. Lab manager Nicole Grosjean notes that prevention, identification, diagnostic testing, and early treatment for infection are keys to decreasing the incidence of severe illness and fatalities.

Over the last four years, nearly 200 ticks from NOV DEC Michigan clients have been sent to DCPAH for identification and/or testing.

Another key ally in tracking ticks across the state is Mel Poplar at MDARD. Poplar receives and identifies hundreds of ticks annually.

Data from Poplar’s database in addition to data compiled by DCPAH creates a substantial sample of nearly 1,000 tick submissions/ encounters from 2009–12.

Erik Foster is also on the front line when it comes to ticks in Michigan. A medical entomologist at MDCH, Foster tracks vector-borne diseases and the organisms that spread them. “One way we track ticks is by collecting them directly from the environment. This is done using collection cloths called “tick drags” or by capturing small mammal hosts that the ticks feed on. By comparing findings from sample sites around the state, we can determine tick presence and densities as well as document migration into new territories,” Foster says. While Michigan has not historically been an area where ticks have been an issue, “Once they move into a region, they are almost impossible to eliminate or control. They are here to stay.”

Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick)

*Sesame seed for comparison

“Know your city, county, area” Based on data for all species collected from multiple sources, tick submissions have come from 79 of Michigan’s 83 counties. Tracking submissions can identify changes in potential disease risk. Although the American dog tick is ubiquitous throughout the state, the blacklegged tick’s expansion is a changing and dynamic situation. Over time, tick surveys and submission data document the tick’s ongoing presence in the Upper Peninsula as well as its recent movement north and eastward along the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Lower Peninsula, expanding risk for Lyme disease and associated illnesses in the state. This is reflected in increasing numbers of human and animal cases of Lyme disease in Michigan (see map, next page). Lone star ticks, historically a southern tick species, are less common but those submissions are also increasing.

While it may be tempting to focus on blacklegged ticks and Lyme disease, any tick can potentially transmit disease. Overall, of the diagnostics performed at DCPAH, positive results are most likely for Rickettsia sp. (11%). [Note: Some Rickettsia sp in ticks are not pathogenic for people or animals.] However, 5% of PCRs for B. burgdorferi (the bacterium that causes Lyme disease) are positive, as well as 3% of both Babesia sp. and Anaplasma sp. However, ticks collected from disease-endemic areas are more likely to be positive.

It is important to remember that travel (in-state or out) may be a factor in any encounters where a tick is found on a host. When treating an animal with tick attachment or bite exposure, getting a travel history is critically important in determining the type of disease risk.

In addition, submitting ticks helps with research. Many tick species

Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick)

Ixodes cookei (woodchuck tick)

the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

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Ixodes scapularis (blacklegged tick)

associated with wildlife are more likely to be picked up by pets coming into contact with den areas than to be discovered by researchers.

Ticks are found in Michigan year-round, not just in the spring and summer, but there is a seasonal pattern for when particular species are likely to be submitted (see graph, previous page). Blacklegged tick submissions begin in early spring and through early summer; American dog tick and lone star tick during mid-spring through summer. In the fall, there is a resurgence of blacklegged tick submissions in October and November.

What can veterinarians and clinic staff do?

Rhipecephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick)

2010 field survey results Blacklegged ticks detected

Blacklegged ticks not detected

lyme disease risk Known risk

Potential risk

No documented risk

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

If there isn’t someone on staff who can identify ticks, know where to send them for identification. Visit DCPAH online at animalhealth. msu.edu for information on identification and diagnostics for ticks found on animals. A flowchart providing additional resources for ticks found on humans as well as animals is available at michigan. gov/lymedisease.

Tick-borne diseases are “reportable diseases”; physicians, veterinarians, and laboratories that diagnose these conditions are required to report them to local health departments and animal health regulatory officials. Have a good relationship with your local health department and call them when appropriate.

Help clients prevent tick bites and attachment by talking with them about topical flea and tick preventatives—they are highly effective at keeping ticks off animals, and out of the house.

Talk with clients whose animals have been bitten by ticks about their travel history. Proactively discuss travel plans when discussing flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives. Even if you think your area is tick free, there is a good chance your client may take their pet somewhere with known tick infestations.

For those wishing to learn more about tick identification, a CD available from the Armed Services Pest Management Board is a terrific resource: afpmb.org/content/interactive-program-teachingtick-morphology-0.

Remember, if veterinarians know what ticks are in their area, they can give better information to owners to help prevent tick bites and vector-borne disease for both pets and clients. “Veterinarians are important to public health because pets are often sentinels for human disease. Because dogs wander deeper into vegetation than their owners, they are likely to come into contact with ticks before humans do,” says Foster.

A guide to resources available for veterinarians and their clients is online at animalhealth.msu.edu.

—Courtney Chapin

Tick photos courtesy of Kent Loeffler, Department of Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology, Cornell Univesity. Michigan map courtesy of MDCH Division of Communicable Disease, Zoonotic Disease and Special Projects Division. Chart courtesy of DCPAH.

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mvma assists student groups VMA supports students at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine in many ways. One way is by budgeting money each year which allows the MVMA Student Committee to fund projects or events put on by student groups that benefit students, animals, MSU CVM, the public and/or the MVMA membership. To receive a grant from the MVMA, a student group must show that its event or project provides a clear benefit to at least one of the above mentioned groups. Upon completion of the project or event, the group is required to provide the Association with a report on the project or event.

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One Health Club The One Health Club would like to thank MVMA for sponsoring our spring events: Human CPR training and “Planting Seeds for One Health.” Both events were a tremendous success and would not have been possible without your support.

The Human CPR training event was held on two separate days to accommodate the number of interested students. We were very excited to have a variety of students participate from first- to fourth-year vet students, vet tech students, and a graduate student.

MVMA funds were used to purchase dinner and to help defray a portion of the training fee.

“Planting Seeds for One Health” took place during Vet-a-Visit. Children were able to plant their own starter gardens.

They learned about the importance of fresh vegetables and fruits in their diet as well as the role that veterinarians play in keeping their food safe. We used recycled cardboard egg cartons as the seed trays. Children filled each cup with soil and selected which vegetable or herb seeds they wanted to plant.

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

Both of the above events would not have been possible without the support and generosity of MVMA. Thank you for supporting our club and our efforts to share the importance of the One Health goal with others.

Jessica Zalucha President, One Health Club MSU CVM Class of 2014

Dental Club Many thanks to MVMA for supporting the Dental Club Wet Lab! The event included a lecture and wet lab that allowed eight of the vivarium dogs to receive dental cleanings.

Twenty students participated, learning proper dental procedures, uses for each dental instrument, induction and recovery of patients, and anesthesia monitoring. Anesthesiologists supervised the third-year students during induction and recovery, and first- and second-year students could watch and learn the process. Students then were able to chart, scale, and polish the dogs’ teeth, utilizing the techniques learned in the lecture.

Not only did the students learn a lot,

Omega Tau Sigma veterinary professional fraternity’s 2nd annual “Lucky Bowl” charity fundraiser

but the dogs benefitted greatly. All of the dogs had severe dental calculus, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Some dogs even required extractions. Because of this wet lab, eight dogs were able to improve their dental health. We sincerely appreciate your support. This would not have happened if it wasn’t for MVMA!

of this event was the actual wet lab where students got to perform necropsies on the sea otter and sea lions. With the lecture to guide them, students were able to identify unique features like extra myoglobin in the

muscles, the density of hairs on the sea otter’s body, and lobulated kidneys in both species. Students were also able to identify lesions like an ulcer in the stomach of a sea lion, cyst-like lesions on the kidneys of

Dental Club wet lab

Jennifer Welsh SCAVDS President and Founder MSU CVM Class 2013

Aquatics Club On behalf of the Aquatics Club, I would like to thank MVMA for their support of our Marine Mammal Necropsy Wet Lab. Through association with The Marine Mammal Center, Fish and Wildlife Service of California, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: National Marine Fisheries Service, we were able to ship one California Sea Otter and four California Sea Lions to Michigan State for necropsy at the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health.

We initially held an overview lecture where our club officers put together a comparative anatomy lecture about sea otters and sea lions. The second portion the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

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RadVets lunch lecture

another, and a thin-walled stomach of the sea otter.

Overall, the students were very pleased with this experience. None of this would have been possible without the support of MVMA! Thanks again for all that you do!

Allison Peterson Aquatics Club President MSU CVM Class of 2013

Spring Wet Lab. The event began with a lecture from Dr. Heidi Heckler. We then moved to the anatomy room where we practiced different Tui-Na techniques on four dogs.

Tui-Na is a discipline commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) along with acupuncture. In Tui-Na, acupuncture points are used for physical manipulation and Integrative Medicine Club spring wet lab

Celebration of Life The Celebration of Life organization committee would like to thank the MVMA immensely for its contributions to the Celebration of Life. This year’s event was a huge success with over 60 guests and their pets attending. Each one of our pet guests received a tote bag full of gifts from sponsors and the MVMA funding was used for the refreshment table. All of our guests and volunteers were very appreciative of the support. We couldn’t do Celebration of Life without sponsors like you. Thank you again so much for your contribution.

Heather Dean MSU CVM Class of 2014 RadVets President

Integrative Medicine Club The Integrative Medicine Club would like to thank MVMA for helping fund the Annual 20

the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

to provide massage through acupressure.

The lecture focused on the basic principles of TCM providing the foundation for both acupuncture and Tui-Na. None of our demonstration doggies were sedated and they were all great sports! Thank you MVMA! Alexander J. Park Integrative Medicine Club President MSU CVM Class of 2014

Behavior Club The MSU CVM’s Behavior Club (Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior) would like to send a warm thank you for the funding MVMA provided. The funds helped us create a fun and educational booth at the annual Vet-a-Visit event titled “How to Make a Four-Legged Friend” and taught kids how to properly greet dogs. The kids enjoyed learning and practicing with the stuffed dogs. Furthermore, parents were happy to learn ways to keep their children safe. We provided stickers to children that said “Certified Dog Greeter” and handouts to parents so that they could share what they learned with people who were not able to attend the event. Thank you for the funding that made this event possible. We are very grateful for your generosity!

Susan Graham MSU CVM Behavior Club (SCAVSAB) President MSU CVM Class of 2014

Omega Tau Sigma Veterinary Professional Fraternity The Omega Tau Sigma (OTS) Veterinary Professional Fraternity sponsored their second annual Lucky Bowl charity fundraiser!

“Planting Seeds for One Health”

Through the gracious support of the MVMA, OTS was able to raise $1,134 for the Lucky Fund for Needy Animals at MSU’s very own veterinary teaching hospital. This fund helps subsidize veterinary bills for owners whose pets have a good chance at recovery, but cannot afford the care necessary to pay for it.

Behavior Club display on “How to Make a Four-Legged Friend”

This year, the Lucky Bowl was held at City Limits Bowling Alley in Mason where over 70 students, clinicians, friends, and family were able to enjoy bowling, pizza, and prizes. There was also a silent auction with a variety of donations from organizations including the Detroit Red Wings, the Detroit Lions, Pedigree, and more. The event was a great success and OTS cannot thank the MVMA enough for your contribution!

Robert Parkins MSU CVM Class of 2015 OTS Community Service Co-Chair

RadVets RadVets would like to thank MVMA for their contribution to our lunch lecture about radiation oncology, a topic not normally covered by our curriculum. The lecture was a huge success with over 40 RadVet members attending. Every year RadVets strives to provide the best in additional lectures in diagnostic imaging and the therapies used in the radiology field. This year, thanks to sponsors like MVMA, RadVets was able to provide our members with eight lunch lectures and wet labs. Thank you so much for your continued support of RadVets!

Heather Dean RadVets President MSU CVM Class of 2014

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

Remember the MICHIGAN ANIMAL HEALTH FOUNDATION . . . for our sake!

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MVMA’s Mackinac Island Veterinary Conference VMA’s summer conference at Grand

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Hotel was a huge success this year!

The weather was great, the food was fabulous, the CE was top-notch, and the evening events were lots of fun. MVMA thanks all who participated in the conference. Be sure to join us August 4–6, 2013, at Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls for next year’s summer conference!

platinum IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Merial Limited

thanks to our genero us sponso rs !

gold Novartis Animal Health silver Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan CEVA Animal Health Diagnostic Center for Population & Animal Health Ralph C. Wilson Agency bronze Animal Neurology, Rehabilitation & ER Center Oakland Veterinary Referral Services

A good time was had by all at the MVMA Summer Conference, as shown by these many smiling faces!

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

our website can serve as an open-door into your business, and speaks volumes about you and the services offered at your veterinary practice. When used correctly, a website can serve as the most efficient, valuable, and cost-effective advertising and marketing tools on the market. Yet, more often than not, veterinary hospital websites, in particular, are not used to their greatest potential. In understanding the value and increasing capabilities of your website, you, too, could be getting more bang for your buck when it comes to online marketing. Here are 15 effective ways to make your website more valuable to both you and your clients:

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15

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TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR VETERINARY HOSPITAL’S WEBSITE

1. Offer videos and online seminars on simple animal services. Your website can double as a “how-to” site, which dramatically increases your viewership from your active clients to the pet-owning community at large. If you record the videos yourself, you can also upload them to YouTube where there is potential to attract a wider and more diverse audience. Below the video you can add a link to your website, just as your website can provide a link to the YouTube clip. If you don’t record the video yourself, remember that you have access to almost 150 different videos at MyVNN.com and many of these can be customized for you.

2. Take videos at local events and include them on your website.

3. Engage in online pet discussions.

4. Create a newsletter signup box on your website. It is worth investing in a monthly or quarterly (seasonal) newsletter that you can email to your clients and visitors who sign up on your website. The newsletter can be as simple or complex as you want—spanning everything from recent hospital or pet-related events, new technologies and medicines, or simple hospital announcements. This not only builds prospective client lists, but also attracts new clients and strengthens already existing relationships.

5. Create a special offers signup box on your website.

6. Distribute free product samples.

7. Add a blog to your website and start blogging. With unlimited opportunities to join the online community, you should not be missing out! Blogging is an especially easy and an important way to build your credibility and relationship with the community. It can also provide a space for customer feedback, as well as attract new clients to your website. If your name or hospital appears in various blogs, this will instantly increase your hospital’s web presence, and ultimately provide more free advertising. As a veterinarian, you have a tremendous amount of credibility in your community, and blog topics are limitless.

8. Write and publish press releases in your local newspaper.

9. Take out a small advertisement in your local newspaper or an ad on their website.

10. Integrate other social networking sites into your primary website.

11. Tweet about your website, but don’t abuse it.

12. Use Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to better rank your website on search engines.

13. Add a coupon page.

14. Promotional offerings.

15. Finally, keep your website simple, attractive, updated, and easy-to-read and navigate.

There are plenty of bells and whistles to help attract people to your website, but ultimately, the most important and simplest component is often the most overlooked. Once you have attracted someone to your website, you don’t want them to leave. So, make sure your website functions well, with simple, easy-to-read information and attractive images. Don’t let your clients get swept away by the clutter.

A website is more than mere words on a screen. In fact, it can be your new best friend—but only if used correctly. Once you begin thinking of a website as much more than a onedimensional informational board, an entirely new world of marketing opportunities presents itself. A website should not only be informative, but also interactive, enticing, and ultimately, your most effective advertising and marketing tool in your kit.

For the full article and descriptions of each of the 15 ways, go to http://vetnetwork.com/ blog/2012/06/increase-the-value-of-your-veterinary-hospital-website/.

Written and © by Mark Feltz, DVM, President, VetNetwork, www.vetnetwork.com

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conferences

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SMALL ANIMAL SEMINAR SERIES 10:00 am–5:30 pm | East Lansing Marriott

It’s not too late to sign up! This popular series features the following great topics and speakers: n Dermatology (Dr. Paul Bloom), October 10, 2012

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Soft Tissue Surgery (Dr. Catriona MacPhail), November 7, 2012 Toxicology (Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant), December 5, 2012 Nutrition (Dr. Lisa Weeth), March 13, 2013

MVMA/MSU-CVM ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY LECTURE & WET LAB FORUM November 10, 2012 @ 8:30 am–4:30 pm | MSU Veterinary Medical Center

Drs. Charlie DeCamp, Loïc Déjardin, Dan Degner, and Curtis Probst will give a oneday lecture and laboratory course designed for the small-animal practitioner with an interest in orthopedic surgery. Valuable tips will be emphasized, with step-by-step techniques to stabilize the cruciate deficient stifle, correct patellar luxation, and perform femoral head and neck excision.

Procedures to be covered will include mini-arthrotomy and traditional arthrotomy, partial and complete menisectomy, meniscal release, extra-articular stabilization, block and wedge trochleoplasty, tibial tubercle

transposition, and capsulorrhaphy. In addition, as time permits, femoral head and neck osteotomy (FHO) has been added as a procedure for those with interest.

Taught by four board-certified orthopedic surgeons and several surgery residents with a maximum enrollment of 22 practitioners, this laboratory will ensure the greatest personal attention and surgical instruction.

A morning brunch, break refreshments, and a lunch will be provided. All attendees will receive a DVD detailing the surgical procedures discussed during this surgical forum.

MVMA ANIMAL WELFARE CONFERENCE November 19, 2012 @ 8:30 am–5:00 pm | MSU Pavilion

MVMA’s Animal Welfare Conference will feature keynote speaker Dr. Bernie Rollin, nationally known animal welfare expert from Colorado State University. This is going to be a great conference and should not be missed.

The conference will focus on how veterinarians work together with producers and others for humane treatment of animals at every stage of life. A variety of issues faced by companion animal, large animal, lab animal and other veterinarians will be examined including: n Prosecuting Animal Abuse Cases in Ingham County, Jeff Cruz, JD n Large-Animal Euthanasia, Jan Shearer, DVM

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Low-Stress Dairy Cattle Handling, Margaret Perala, DVM What Makes a Pig a Pig and a Dog a Dog? The Importance of Natural Behavior , Bernie Rollin, PhD Animal Welfare Programs: Risk Mitigation or Risk Propagation?, Jennifer Walker, DVM, PhD Who Has the Better Welfare: The Guide Dog or the Police Dog? Working Dog Welfare Scenario, Camie Heleski, PhD and Janice Siegford, PhD Low-Stress Handling for Fun and Profit: Cattle Handling Demo, Ben Bartlett, DVM The Ethics of Small-Animal Cancer Treatment, Bernie Rollin, PhD

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MICHIGAN VETERINARY CONFERENCE January 25–27, 2013 | Lansing Center, Lansing, Michigan

The 2013 Michigan Veterinary Conference will be packed with dynamite speakers and fun events. You won’t want to miss it! Here are just a few highlights . . .

TOPICS & SPEAKERS COMPANION ANIMAL n n n n n

VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY n n

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Infectious Diseases, Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt Dermatology, Dr. Doug DeBoer Cardiology, Dr. John Bonagura Behavior, Dr. Katherine Houpt MSU Resident Presentations

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Anesthesia Topics, Susan Holland, LVT Hospice Care, Communication, and Compassion Fatigue, Dr. Paige Yaxley Emergency Medicine, Dr. Ari Jutkowitz Emergency Medicine, Teryl Hall, LVT Exotic Animal Behavior and Handling, PJ Agents, LVT Dentistry, Sue Berryhill, RVT Clinical Pathology, Dr. Pamela Baker Pain Management, speaker TBD

GENERAL SESSION EMERGING ANIMAL HEALTH & DISEASE TOPICS n n n n n

Toxicology, Dr. John Buchweitz Leptospirosis, Dr. Carole Bolin Lyme Disease, Dr. Steve Bolin Rabies Update, Dr. Mary Grace Stobierski Reportable Diseases in Michigan, Dr. Steve Halstead

n

n

n

n

FOOD ANIMAL n

Vaccine Considerations, Canine Leptospirosis, Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease, Dr. Elizabeth Settles Building Bridges Between Veterinarian and Animal Care and Control Agencies, Dr. Cathy Anderson Retirement Investment Options for Veterinarians, Dr. Alan Supp MSU Veterinary College Curriculum, Drs. Coretta Patterson, Helene Pazak, Norma Baptista, and Sarah Abood

Uterine Disease Topics, Dr. Klibs N.A. Galvao WET LABS

EQUINE n n n

n

Equine Surgery Topics, Dr. James Schumacher Equine Sports Medicine Topics, Dr. Duncan Peters Equine Ultrasound, Dr. Anthony Pease

n

n

NONTRADITIONAL n n n

n n n

Wildlife and White Nose Syndrome Update, Dr. Dan O’Brien Exotic Animal Anesthesia Techniques, Dr. George Bohart Snake Invenomation and Snake Venom & Toxin Exposure in Exotic Animals, Dr. John Buckweitz Rabbit Topics, Dr. James Clarkson Urban Poultry Topics, Drs. Mick Fulton and Darrin Karcher Trends in Ferret and Avian Practice, Dr. Thomas Bankstal

n

n

SPECIAL EVENTS n n

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT & STAFF DEVELOPMENT n n

Staff Development Topics, Donna R. Recupido, CVPM Practice Management Topics, Pamela Stevenson, DVPM

Cardiology/EKG Wet Lab for Veterinarians, Dr. Rob Sanders Urban Poultry Wet Lab for Veterinarians, Drs. Mick Fulton and Darrin Karcher Clinical Pathology and Cytology Wet Lab for Veterinary Technicians, Dr. Pamela Baker Dentistry Wet Lab for Veterinary Technicians, Sue Berryhill, RVT and Jean Beemsterboer, LVT Ultrasound of the Equine Neck, Back and Suspensory Ligament for Veterinarians, Dr. Anthony Pease

n n n

Exhibit Hall Brunch Speed Networking Large Animal and Equine Reception MSU CVM Alumni Luncheon SCAVMA Auction

For all conferences, contact MVMA at mvma@michvma.org or (517) 347-4710.

Visit www.michvma.org for more information or to register online. the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

27

2011–12 SURVEY RESULTS

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Michigan Veterinarians and Investigation of

Canine Leptospirosis BACKGROUND

TABLE 1.

In October 2011, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) reported a leptospirosis outbreak primarily among the southeast Michigan canine population. Because leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, there was also concern that the disease might affect the human population as well. Leptospirosis is a reportable disease in both humans and animals in Michigan. Veterinarians are required to report presumptive cases of leptospirosis in any animal to MDARD.

risk factor/characteristic

percent —

Breed > 25 lbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28/57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Not vaccinated against leptospirosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38/59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Spends majority of time indoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49/57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Owner reported seeing rodents near or around home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38/57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Owner reported owning another dog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29/57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

FIGURE 1. reported case outcomes by year 2010

2

OUTBREAK INVESTIGATION

7 20

2011

More information was needed about this canine outbreak in order to better assess the risk to humans, especially those who were in close contact with affected animals. A multi-agency collaborative outbreak investigation team from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), and MDARD sought to characterize the scope of the outbreak, identify risk factors, and suggest recommendations to prevent future disease transmission.

The team attempted to make contact with all owners of reported canine cases from 2010 and 2011. We were able to contact 57 (68%) owners. We asked a number of questions about potential exposure to a variety of factors including recreational water, farm animals, and rodents. There was seasonality of the onset of clinical signs, with the majority of the reported cases occurring from August to November. Results are shown in table 1 and figure 1.

number

Mean age (years) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.3

0%

n Died n Euthanized n Survived

14 8

33 50%

the questionnaire. Highlights of the results can be found in table 2.

100%

n

RECOMMENDATIONS

Hospitalized patients (canine and human) should be cared for using standard precautions. We also recommended, to decrease risk of transmission, veterinary personnel and others working with animals should: n

Avoid contact with urine and other body fluids from infected animals through the use of gloves

n

n

n

Additional equipment, such as masks and protective eyewear, should be worn when performing activities that may cause splashes (e.g., cleaning equipment used to transport animals) All blood, urine, and tissues from infected animals should be considered biologically hazardous waste Hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water after handling or cleaning up after infected animals Iodine- or chlorine-based disinfectants may be used to clean contaminated bed-

TABLE 2. survey results

number

percent

general respondent information Mean years practicing veterinary medicine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.8 (0–50)

—

Care predominately for small animals in a private general practice . . 303/338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 disease knowledge

VETERINARIAN SURVEY

We distributed a knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) survey to Michigan veterinarians online through the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association member listserv. This 30-question survey was sent via email on December 20, 2011, and remained open until January 31, 2012. A total of 427 persons responded, 290 of whom completed 28

the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

Total canine leptospirosis patients (suspected or confirmed) euthanized in the past 12 months (from 193 respondents) . . . . . . . 154

—

Identified leptospirosis as a zoonotic disease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294/294 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Discuss possibility of human transmission with owners . . . . . . . . . . . 285/293 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 vaccination practices Recommend leptospirosis vaccine for all canines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221/299 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Reported that owners refuse leptospirosis vaccination. . . . . . . . . . . . 189/223 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Reported seeing adverse reactions following lepto vaccination . . . . . 256/294 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

ding, cages, and surfaces. The viability of leptospires decreases via desiccation or exposure to direct sunlight and a low pH. In general, prevention of leptospirosis includes avoiding contact with potentially infected animals and contaminated soil and water sources. Specific to this investigation, encouraging canine vaccination and controlling rat and stray dog populations are two primary methods to prevent canine cases. Reducing canine cases will also reduce the likelihood of future human cases. Additionally, encouraging owners to practice good hand washing techniques after handing their dogs or anything contaminated with dog urine will help prevent Clockwise from left: A rat trapping location in southeast Michigan; rat kidney stained with immunohistohuman cases of leptospirosis. Persons chemistry for leptospirosis (DCPAH); trap baited with sardines and set; two rats trapped for testing. should not feed wildlife or stray animals or attract these species to their property to Cases of Canine Leptospirosis by county as of December 2011 prevent transmission to pets and people.

The increase in reported canine leptospirosis cases and Leptospira sp.–positive rodents sampled near the homes of canine patients demonstrates a need for canine leptospirosis vaccination promotion, increased veterinarian and public health awareness, and better control of local rat population. MDARD is currently developing leptospirosis educational materials.

While no human cases associated with this canine outbreak have been identified yet, this investigation highlights the One Health concept: that the environment, animals, and human health are closely intertwined.

0 1 2

FIGURE 2. commonly reported reasons for owner refusal of leptospirosis vaccine

3 4–9 10–28

n = 253

13

Cost barrier

ictero serovar count

14

Lack of perceived risk

29

Breeder agreement/recommendation Adverse reaction concerns

37 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

FIGURE 3. leptospirosis case reporting knowledge & practices Identified lepto as a reportable disease in animals

80

Report cases of lepto in animals

65

Report to an agency other than MDARD (not recommended) 0%

40 20%

40%

60%

80%

acknowledgments. We would like to sincerely thank all MVMA members who participated in this survey for their time. This investigation was assisted by Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health (MSU DCPAH), Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, City of Detroit Public Works (Environmental Division, Rodent Control), City of Detroit Animal Control, and the Michigan Humane Society of Detroit. reported by: Jenna M. Webeck, DVM, MPH, CDC EIS Officer, MDCH; Jessie Clippard, MPH, CDC/CSTE Applied Epidemiology Fellow, MDCH; Kim Signs, DVM, Zoonotic Disease Epidemiologist, MDCH; Mary Grace Stobierski, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, State Public Health Veterinarian, MDCH

the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

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classified ads relief vets & benefits classified ads veterinarians wanted Associate wanted for 3-doctor pet practice in Bryan, OH. 36 years in one location on main road. 4,200 sq. ft., 3 exam rooms with lift tables, 2 surgery suites, trt room w/ high-speed dental unit. Renovations in 2008 and 2010.

Each doctor has own office. Soft and ortho surgery.

Cardell monitoring, endoscopy, MedRx ear endoscopy, laser surgery, GE Logiq P3 U/S, newest Idexx lab equipment, doppler BP. Seven technicians, no emergencies, 4-day work week. Great chance for eventual ownership.

Visit www.bryanvet.com. bryanvet1@frontier.com for résumés. 419/636-5081 for interview.

Seeking a full-or part-time confident and caring associate veterinarian to join our team in a well-established multidoctor small-animal practice located in Grand Blanc, MI. Strong communication skills are a must. General medicine and surgery capabilities are required, new or recent graduates considered. Our facility has an excellent support staff, Heska in-house laboratory, high-speed dental, x-ray, and monitoring equipment. No after-hour emergency duties and limited Saturday hours. Competitive salary and benefits offered. Send résumé to gbvh1962@yahoo. com or call Dr. Miller at 810/694-8241.

Growing small-animal practice in Macomb Twp. seeking full-/part-time veterinarian. Emphasis on building bonds with clients. Super supportive staff, well-equipped.

Please email résumé to creeksideah@sbcglobal.net.

Seeking a full-/part-time dedicated and compassionate DVM to become a long-term member of our hospital team.

We are a fast-paced, full-service, small-animal hospital in Grand Rapids. Exotic experience a plus. No emergency hours. Send résumé to mail@catndoghospital.com.

Looking for full-/part-time veterinarian for Westland Veterinary Hospital, Westland, MI. We offer competitive salary, production bonus, and comprehensive benefits including 401K. Please send your résumés to dhillondvm@ gmail.com.

Weekend urgent care veterinarian needed in Midland, Sat. 9 am–8 pm, Sun. 11 am–6 pm, one weekend a month.

No holidays, no overnights. Earn some extra cash and/or stay in practice part-time. Contact mollc@hotmail.com or Kelly at kglashauser@nvanet.com, or call 989/631-0220 ext. 105.

Part-time associate veterinarian wanted for our 2-doctor small-animal practice. Our newly remodeled and expanded facility has a great support staff and is very well equipped. No emergencies. Excellent salary and benefits.

Contact Drs. Kevin Smyth or Michele Arkens at 734/4256140 or send résumé to Morrison Animal Hospital, 33607 Ford Rd., Garden City, MI 48135.

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

Seeking full- or part-time associate for 80% small-animal, 20% equine practice. In-house laboratory, radiology, ultrasound, surgical suite, etc. Competitive salary and benefits. Contact Dr. Robert Sray at 517/782-9409, Jackson, MI; northwestvet@sbcglobal.net.

Emergency DVM needed: Bay Area Pet Hospital is a progressive, companion-animal practice located in beautiful Traverse City, MI. The hospital offers general practice as well as 24/7 emergency and critical care. Candidates must be compassionate, energetic, and enjoy working up critical cases. Minimum one year emergency experience required. Generous benefit package, flexible scheduling.

Send résumé to dr.karen@bayareapethospitals.com.

Do you want to practice high quality emergency medicine? . . . work with exciting cases? . . . meet with great clients? . . . provide the highest standard of patient care? If you are a talented, responsible leader who enjoys a challenge and has the desire to learn and grow personally and professionally, Animal Emergency Center (AEC) may be the right fit for you! We are currently seeking highly qualified emergency veterinarians for full-time or part-time opportunities at both of our hospital locations. AEC is the only 24-hour emergency hospital in the area that is AAHA-certified. We have been providing emergency and critical care service for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, small mammals/pocket pets, reptiles, and other exotic pets since 2002. AEC has two beautiful modern hospitals located in Novi and Rochester, MI—both are growing, upscale communities with great pet owners. We are a privately owned company with a loyal referral base of over 300 DVMs whom we proudly serve. Our hospitals feature a clean and relaxed atmosphere, optimized workflow, dual surgery suites, dedicated ICUs, and a team of caring, licensed, experienced staff.

We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and sophisticated diagnostic and monitoring tools. AEC provides a highly competitive salary with commission, plus a top-notch benefit package that includes medical, dental, and vision care; liability insurance; continuing education and uniform allowance; vacation/personal time; simple IRA with matching contributions; profit-sharing bonus distribution; discounted group disability insurance; and discounts on services for your own pets. If you are interested in joining a team that is committed to inspiring others through our heartfelt care, compassion, and dedication to excellence, please send your résumé and cover letter to Dr. Heather Robertson, DVM, at careers@aec4pets.com. If you are out of state, ask us about our relocation package for experienced emergency vets—and then come to Michigan.

Here you will experience four true seasons, lots of outdoor water and winter activities, great family life, professional sports, cultural events, fun nightlife, fine dining, fresh air—and a great career opportunity!

Do you want a progressive, state-of-the-art practice that allows you professional freedom and offers exceptional technical and support staff? Do you want a team known

for their dedication and compassion to the bond between pets and their people? Are you seeking to work in a facility that offers extensive CE as well as a comprehensive salary and benefit package? We are the place for you! FT/PT associate wanted for busy, growing, general practice that was voted Oakland County’s “Best of the Best” 3 years in a row by our clients. We offer state-of-the-art equipment including digital x-ray (dental and standard), digital ultrasound, surgical laser, low-level therapy laser, physical rehabilitation, video endoscopy, and much more! Our newly remodeled facility will make you feel right at home.

Fax or email résumé to Annette Engler, LVT, CVPM, CCRP, Administrator, Union Lake Veterinary Hospital 248/3633756 or ulvh@msn.com. Learn more about us at www. unionlakepets.com.

Animal health supplier looking for a bovine veterinarian seeking to make a difference with Michigan dairy and livestock producers. Part-time (1–2 days/week) available.

Through consulting, education, and problem solving it is our goal to help our producers reach the full genetic potential of their herds. Working with our team, this person will be responsible for assisting the producer to attain their animal health and production goals while also helping to reach the goals of the company. Practice experience critical to perform duties. Competitive compensation based on experience with mileage reimbursement. Travel required throughout MI, IN, and surrounding states. DVM, licensed in MI and IN, other surrounding states desirable.

Please send résumé and cover letter to résumés1240@ gmail.com.

Part-/full-time veterinarian needed for a 4-hospital smallanimal veterinary group. Avian and exotics is a plus! Experience preferred. Excellent support staff. Send résumé to Dr. Claude Curry, 3241 S. Telegraph, Dearborn, MI 48124.

Seeking a motivated and experienced veterinarian with a desire to practice small- or mixed-animal medicine in a well-established practice near Lansing, MI. Our mixedanimal practice promotes high-quality compassionate care, strong client education, and long-term relationships with our clients. The facility is well equipped with modern equipment, and a skilled and friendly support team including several LVTs. Our vision is to find an experienced associate with a serious interest in partnership or ownership. An excellent opportunity exists for a compassionate individual with a strong passion for the business of veterinary medicine. Excellent mentorship, very generous salary and benefits, with potential to buy the practice.

Please email inquiries and résumés to animaldoc8791@ gmail.com.

Small-animal AAHA-accredited hospital in Genesee County seeking a part-/full-time veterinarian. Please submit résumé to singham4@msu.edu.

An amazing staff awaits your arrival if you are the right candidate for Newaygo Veterinary Services. Join our family of 2 doctors, 3 LVTs, and 8 support staff members as we provide quality medicine with a small-town personal style. Recent upgrades include digital radiology and Idexx blood chemistry equipment. Emphasis is on preventative care; soft-tissue surgery abilities are desired, with opportunities for expanding orthopedic surgery experience. Newaygo Veterinary Services is located in the city of Newaygo, the gateway to the Manistee National Forest and only 30 minutes from a major Grand Rapids shopping artery. Please call today to schedule a visit and discuss this satisfying opportunity. 231/652-1681 or email deb@ newaygoveterinaryservices.com.

Gaide Veterinary Hospital is a progressive 5-doctor smallanimal practice located in beautiful south central MI. We are currently seeking a full-time associate veterinarian.

Our facility treats a multitude of hospitalized patients daily providing a challenging yet rewarding environment where you can learn and grow as a veterinarian. Gaide Veterinary Hospital is team focused with plenty of opportunity for mentoring. We strive to provide high-quality client and patient care. You will find an excellent support staff, great clientele, and a competitive salary with benefits.

Our well-established, modern, fully-equipped hospital includes ultrasound, endoscopy, patient monitors, ICU cages, tonopen, in-house laboratory, x-ray, ultrasonic dental equipment, and gas anesthesia. We are at the tail-end of an expansion project that has nearly doubled our work space. New this spring we began offering stem cell therapy for our patients. Our hospital is located in Jackson just a few minutes from both Ann Arbor and Lansing. Jackson offers downtown convenience, small-town charm, and outdoor recreation to suit even the most avid enthusiast. Whether you seek small-town life in one of the outlying communities or desire city living in the heart of Jackson you will be surprised by Michigan’s best kept secret: Jackson County. New graduates are encouraged to apply. Please send résumé to Gaide Veterinary Hospital, 539 N. Blackstone, Jackson, MI 49201; tel 517/787-3512; fax 517/787-0399. Direct inquiries to Dale L. Gaide, DVM. Part-time veterinarian needed for progressive, wellequipped, community-oriented practice. Partner with our incredible staff to provide the care you always wanted.

Dental radiography, diagnostic ultrasound, in-house blood equipment all available. Please send résumés to Dr. Greathouse, prdocs@sbcglobal.net.

VCA Allen Park Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian competent in basic surgical procedures with excellent communication and organizational skills to lead this hospital. If you can promote innovative thinking in a team atmosphere, here’s your opportunity to practice quality medicine with the support of licensed technicians and a remarkable staff. We offer outstanding benefits, competitive salary, and more. Contact Dr. Laura Buscher by phone or email at 815/674-6000; laura.buscher@ vcahospitals.com.

Full-time large- or mixed-animal veterinarian needed to be 3rd associate for a mixed-animal practice in mid-Michigan. Experience preferred but not required. Well-established practice 60% small-animal and 40% large consisting mostly of dairy with some beef and horses. We strive to practice quality medicine in a friendly atmosphere.

Excellent support staff including 2 LVTs. Truck provided, rectal ultrasound available. Progressive small-animal clinic with digital x-ray and full in-house Idexx lab system.

Full benefit package, pay negotiable with experience, and buy-in potential. Call Animal Health Care of Chesaning at 989/845-6492 and ask for Dr. Tim or Dr. Cindy.

ate care. New graduates welcome. Check us out at www. fvcc.vetsuite.com. Send résumés to kingjam1@yahoo. com.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board is seeking applicants for part-time veterinarian positions to work at horse racing tracks in the Detroit and Mt. Pleasant areas beginning in spring 2012. Contact Al Ernst, Horse Racing Section Manager, at 313/456-4130 or horseracing@michigan.gov.

Secure future and above-average pay for the right associate in beautiful Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Two-veterinarian, predominantly small-animal practice seeks another fulltime associate. We are a busy full-service clinic and our goal is to provide high-quality care for our patients, compassion for our clients, and a great working environment with an exceptional team. Excellent benefits and competitive salary. Email résumé to chippewaanimalclinic@ yahoo.com.

Banfield Pet Hospital of the Great Bay Region and southeast MI is seeking experienced veterinarians. We offer the opportunity to practice quality medicine with the right tools, knowledgeable teams, and nationwide support.

Outstanding benefits, competitive salary, relocation assistance, and CE. Apply online at www.banfield.com/ careers.

Progressive 3-doctor practice seeking a full-time veterinarian. Practice is located in the Genesee/Flint area. If interested, please inquire with Nathan at 810/736-8600 or at heritagevet@comcast.net.

Growing clinic in the Dexter/Pinckney area is looking for a veterinarian to work one day a week and every other Saturday. Clinic offers dental x-rays and in-house labs.

Please email résumé to ter9607lau@chartermi.net. Attn: Laurie.

Busy downtown Ann Arbor 4-vet practice looking for associate for 30–35 hours per week and one Saturday every other month. Fast paced, growing practice voted best practice in Washtenaw County the last 4 years. Please email résumé to kelly@affordablevetservices.com.

Expanding small-animal practice seeks talented, caring veterinarian to work at least one day a week (Wednesdays preferred) with a great team. Have digital radiography, inhouse blood and chemistry machines, VetPro 100 dental machine with LED drill. Send résumé and references to Fieldstone Vet Care, 4355 Homer Rd., Jonesville, MI 49250 or sgeorge517@aol.com.

Lansing Veterinary Medical Center is seeking a full-time emergency veterinarian for our 24-hour hospital. Are you

a team-oriented, self-motivated individual who enjoys practicing compassionate medicine in a state-of-the-art hospital? Do you value professional growth and longterm association as components for a satisfying career?

If so, we encourage you to join our team. Forward résumé or inquire about practice at lansingveterinary@gmail. com. lvts wanted LVT needed for small-animal practice in Kalkaska, MI (northwest MI). Send résumé to slholbel@gmail.com or to Kalkaska Animal Hospital, PO Box 567, Kalkaska, MI 49646.

Veterinary technician/assistant wanted. Surgery experience, compassionate, with a desire to make a difference in animal overpopulation, self-motivated, hard worker, upbeat and encouraging, clinic trained or LVT with a minimum of 2 years’ surgical experience. Contact All About Animals, Warren, MI, tel 586/879-1745; fax 586/933-2565.

FT/PT available.

Technicians and assistants wanted: We are an AAHAcertified emergency hospital located in Burton, MI. The hospital offers flexible schedules, benefits, and excellent wages. We provide a fun and exciting work atmosphere.

Please send résumés to Melissa at mkb5@tds.net.

LVT needed in the Jackson area. Jackson County Animal Shelter is looking for a committed LVT who is looking to make a difference. This is a 30-to-40-hours-a-week position with a competitive salary. Responsibilities include a busy spay/neuter clinic and population management of infectious diseases. If interested please contact Steve Hall at shall@co.jackson.mi.us or 517/768-1569.

Earn extra income. Seeking LVTs to provide overnight care on an on-call basis for stable, hospitalized patients requiring observation/treatments from approximately 5 pm–8am (flexible) the following morning. Please contact Advanced Veterinary Care Group for more details at 734/713-1300.

Water, water everywhere! We are looking for a full-or parttime LVT to be part of our team at a very busy practice with a broad spectrum of cases. We do more than our share of diagnostics, surgeries, and dental procedures. If you would like exposure to more veterinary medicine in a community that offers a delightful downtown that is devoted to the arts and at the same time has many water recreational opportunities, then please send your résumé with a cover letter stating a bit about yourself and your goals.

We strive to be a team where each member is valued and

Full-time experienced veterinarian wanted for a wellestablished small-animal AAHA-certified practice. Stateof-the-art equipment and excellent support staff. Competent medical, surgical, and communication skills a must. No after-hour emergencies. Benefits package. Send résumé to Dr. Donald Schollenberger, c/o Rossoni Animal Hospital, 23737 Van Born Rd., Taylor, MI 48180; tel 313/291-6400; rossonianimalhospital@gmail.com.

Small-animal AAHA-accredited hospital in East Tawas seeking a motivated full-time veterinarian. We are a fullservice veterinary clinic dedicated to quality compassion-

the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

31

classified ads relief vets & benefits recognized. Eugene Wilson, DVM, Dowagiac Animal Hospital, 54791 M51 N, Dowagiac, MI 49047; 269/782-8691; dowagiachah@gmail.com.

Kirsten Begin, DVM, 616/446-3154. MSU 09. SA relief in Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. Will travel. Friendly, excellent client communication. References. Completed rotating and surgical internships. kbegin4@gmail.com.

(Biochemistry). SA/exotic/emergency relief, southeast MI area. Experience with soft tissue/orthopedic surgery, laser, ultrasound, research. Available 7 days, bthwood@ sbcglobal.net

Sharisse Berk, DVM, 248/851-0739. MSU 95. Available for SA relief or part-time work in southeast MI.

Lisa Harris, DVM, 616/261-4743. MSU 89. Available for relief in Grand Rapids/Lakeshore area. Experienced SA medicine and surgery, avian, exotics. Friendly, good communicator. drllharris@gmail.com.

Rhonda Bierl, DVM, 248/467-1987. MSU 00. SA/emergency relief within 1 hour of Pontiac. General medicine, soft-tissue surgery, ultrasound experience. houserrh@ yahoo.com.

Archie Black, DVM, 248/417-2667. MSU 83. SA relief, entire state. Practice owner for 20 years. Excellent communicator. vetdocblack@ameritech.net.

practices & equipment for sale Ownership/partnership wanted: small-animal veterinarian with specialty in exotics and 10+ years’ experience seeking ownership/partnership in a well-established clinic in southeastern MI. Please contact animaldoctor911 @gmail.com.

Small-animal practice for sale in North Oakland County.

Profitable, gross receipts $500K+, located on high-traffic road in busy shopping mall for almost 20 years. Owner will help with transition. Email inquiries to ownit1234@ yahoo.com.

Are you ready to own your own practice? Well-established practice for sale in scenic northern Michigan. Good location. This is a good time to look toward the future. Email upnorthpractice@gmail.com.

Bay County: solo small-animal/grooming practice w/RE for sale. Call Dr. Mark Bash 989/892-8517 or pinevet@ midmich.net.

Small-animal practice with nice hospital and 3-bedroom live-in house attached, south of Lansing/E. Lansing.

Grossing over $700K. Call Dr. Zydeck at 248/891-3934 or email fzydeck@aol.com.

Upper Penninsula, Ironwood near Wisconsin border.

Small-animal practice. Includes nice clinic. Only $250K. Call Dr. Zydeck at 248/891-3934 or email fzydeck@aol. com.

Small-animal practice, Grand Rapids area. Includes outstanding clinic with large parking lot, plus extra lot, too.

Grossing over $1.1M. Call Dr. Zydeck at 248/891-3934 or email fzydeck@aol.com.

Holland, MI. Small-animal, well equipped. Grossing over $600K. Includes beautiful clinic. Call Dr. Zydeck at 248/891-3934 or email fzydeck@aol.com.

FREE PRACTICE VALUATION. Do you want to sell your practice to an associate, or just list it for sale? Find out what it is worth in today’s market. Free valuation. No charge to you. I can help. Call Dr. Zydeck at 248/891-3934 or email fzydeck@aol.com.

relief veterinarians Norman Bayne, DVM, MS, 248/506-1104. MSU 81. SA relief work in southeast MI area. Will travel. Friendly, excellent client communications skills. norman@baynevet.com.

Cheryl Beatty, DVM, 517/290-7633. MSU 89. Experienced SA relief or part-time within 1 hour drive of Lansing. Easygoing, good client communication and record keeping. cherylbeatty@att.net.

32

the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

Laurie Brush, DVM, 616/498-1316. MSU 98. Experienced, SA relief in Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. Excellent client communication, record keeping. lauriebrush @hotmail.com.

Michelle Chappell, DVM, 734/330-5048. KSU 90. Friendly, flexible SA relief or part-time in SE MI. Surgery, medicine, acupuncture, excellent client communication. References. 20 years’ experience.

Aimee Cochell, DVM, 616/558-4905. Ross 01. Available for SA relief in Grand Rapids area. Willing to travel. Good client communication skills. References. abcochell@ comcast.net.

Rebecca Coll, DVM, 734/673-7468. MSU 99. Available for relief work within 1 hour of Metro Airport. Excellent client communication skills. SA or ER relief. Excellent record keeping. hwdogdok@aol.com.

Kenneth Corino, DVM, 248/217-5235. MSU 94. SA relief work. SE MI, medicine and surgery. corinodvm@aol.com.

Nichole Corner, DVM, 616/634-9777. MSU 99. SA relief work in Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo area. Excellent client communication skills. References available. haweslake@ charter.net.

Jennifer M. Dec, DVM, 248/224-1990. MSU 04. Smallanimal general practice and emergency relief. Surgery, ultrasound, and excellent communication skills, weimmom @hotmail.com Daniel Deciechi, DVM, 810/394-7412. MSU 03. Available for SA/exotic relief. Based in SE MI. Willing to travel. dr.deciechi@animalemergencyhospital.net.

Susan Drapek, DVM, CVA, 517/663-0428. MSU 90. Available within two hours of Lansing. Relief experience since 1997. Small-animal medicine, surgery, and acupuncture. smdrapekdvm@sbcglobal.net.

Julie Eberly, DVM, 269/751-8429. MSU 93. 13 years’ SA experience. Available for relief work in western MI/ Holland/Grand Rapids areas. docjulie5@msn.com.

Marj Field, DVM, 734/658-4774. MSU 90. SA/exotic/ emergency relief work in southeastern MI. Excellent client service, comfortable surgeon, high ACT and able to multitask. Extended travel can be negotiated. marj.field@ me.com.

Edward Greene, DVM, 517/812-1540. MSU 59. SA relief.

Competent medical/surgical skills. Cheerful interactions with your clients and staff. Your practice procedures adhered to. LuckyPetVet@comcast.net.

Byron Hagewood, DVM, 734/765-6434. MSU 00. PhD

Sean D. Hughes, DVM, 517/552-0993; 734/674-7061.

MSU 76. SE Michigan SA relief since 1999. Part-time. Prefer SE; will travel for right circumstances. HughesDVM@ aol.com.

Jill Haver-Crissman, DVM, 989/631-2790 or 989/2978594. Ontario 80. SA relief or part-time. Medicine, soft tissue surgery, ultrasound. Works well with others. Not available Wednesdays. jhcrissman@gmail.com.

Matt Januszewski, DVM, CVA, 517/304-7224. CSU 01.

Available 2 days/week, Lansing to Oakland County, Ann Arbor to Flint, for SA relief work. drmattacu@aol.com.

Cindy Kalicki, DVM, 313/291-2466. MSU 94. Eight years full-time, two years relief in SA general medicine/soft tissue surgery. SE MI, part-time or relief.

Tari Kern, DVM, 248/906-5987. MSU 99. Available for part-time or relief work in Okaland, Macomb and northern Wayne counties. SA general medicine and surgery. tkerndvm@yahoo.com.

Eric Mann, DVM, 734/626-2448. Ross 03. Available for SA relief or part-time, metro Detroit/Ann Arbor. kittsvet055@ yahoo.com.

Rita (Kopenski) Mazzuchi, DVM, 248/408-3079. MSU 95.

SA relief work. Metro Detroit/SE/SC Michigan. General medicine, laser, and soft tissue surgery, ultrasound experience. ritavet@comcast.net Richard M. Mieczkowski, DVM 734/735-2279. MSU 71. Relief, experience, competent, dependable, smallanimal, references, north Oakland County and vicinity. rmackj@aol.com.

Gregory Miller, DVM, 269/637-2937. MSU 77. SA Relief part-time. Good medical/surgical skills. Experienced and easy going. Former practice owner, good client relations.

SW MI area.

Denise Jorgensen Montagna, DVM, 231/557-1536. CSU 90. SA relief or part-time in western MI. Excellent client relations. References available. djmontagnadvm@ charter.net.

Peggy Newman, DVM, 616/570-1101. MSU 75. 32-year mid-Michigan practice owner. SA medicine and surgery.

Seeking relief work in mid- and west MI. docpeghoort@ hotmail.com.

Kris Parnell, DVM, 517/881-2845. MSU 91. Available for SA relief or part-time. Will travel 1 hour of Lansing area.

References upon request. kparnelldvm@comcast.net.

Christine Parker, DVM, 616/866-1965. MSU 88. Available for SA relief or short-term. Experienced and dependable.

References available. Will travel. cparker@wmis.net.

Patricia Partridge, DVM, 231/938-9338. MSU 70. SA relief, PT or FT. Former practice owner. Based in Traverse City and Big Rapids, willing to travel. petvet2@torchlake.com.

Mary C. Peacock, DVM, 517/582-0744. MSU 02. Available for SA relief part-time. Based in Lansing. Willing to travel.

member benefits Excellent client communication, experienced, friendly, compassionate. mcpdvm@hotmail.com.

Jeffrey F. Powers, DVM, 231/881-4408. MSU 80. Available to provide SA/MX relief work in MI, practice owner for 29 years. jpowers@csyip.net.

Mark Pytel, DVM, 586/677-0186. MSU 86. SA relief or part-time work. Southeast MI, medicine and surgery. mark.pytel@yahoo.com.

Jason C. Rivas, DVM, 517/896-2698. MSU 03. SA/exotic relief/part-time work. Metro Detroit/southeast MI 7 days a week. All MI travel considered. References. jcrdvm@ yahoo.com.

Ann-Marie Sekerak, DVM, 505/563/0944. ILL 05. SA relief or PT, within 1 hour of Ann Arbor. Positive attitude, excellent patient care and client communication. sekerakDVM @gmail.com.

Teri Sexton, DVM, 517/231-1256 days or 517/371-2930.

MSU 92. SA relief/PT work in Greater Lansing area, Mondays & Tuesdays. TeriLSexton@earthlink.net.

Jennifer Sherrill, DVM, 231/215-0924. UICVM 01. SA relief PT. 9 years’ experience. General medicine/surgery. Excellent client care. West MI/Grand Rapids. Willing to travel.

References. sherrilljen@comcast.net.

Alan Sibinic, DVM, 734/481-1901, 231/547-6212. MSU 75.

Relief or part-time anywhere in MI. Flexible, wide-variety practice experience. 5+ years relief work. References. SA/ EQ/FA. Margaret Sudekum, DVM, 616/676-2720 MSU 89. Available for part-time SA relief work in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. Good client communication skills. msdvm@sdkm.us.

Alan Supp, DVM, 616/732-1263 days; 616/874-4171 evenings. MSU 90. Companion animal practitioner available Saturdays only, as-needed basis in the greater Grand Rapids area.

Connie R. Sveller, DVM, 517/388-3434. MSU 85. SA relief work within 1 hour of East Lansing. Experienced/reliable/ former practice owner (16 years). docconnie1@aol.com.

Andrea Switch, DVM, 248/302-2255. MSU 84. Available for part-time or relief work. SA general medicine/soft tissue surgery in SE MI. andreaswitch@yahoo.com.

Kirsten Ura-Barton, DVM, 774/230-6878. MSU 97. Available for SA relief in SE Michigan within 1 hour of Pontiac.

Experienced in both general and emergency practice with excellent communication skills. Résumé available upon request. kurabartondvm@gmail.com.

Jacqueline Walsh, DVM, 248/680-2461. MSU 89. Available for SA relief work in the greater Detroit area.

Amy Wildrose, DVM, 517/420-5891. MSU 00. Experienced, proficient, dependable, and convivial. Available for SA relief or part-time. Based in Lansing. Willing to travel. a_wildrose@hotmail.com.

Georgia A. Wilson, DVM, 248/830-5325. 19 years’ experience, SA, pet exotics and emergencies, licensed. Available immediately for Oakland County and southeast MI. vxn8n@aol.com.

Jennifer Zablotny, DVM, 517/896-9146. MSU 97. Experienced SA relief for southeast and mid-MI. References available. zablotny@msu.edu.

A BENE LL THESE FITS FOR & MORE ONLY

spotlight

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DAY!

MVMA STAFF TAKE PRIDE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE

The MVMA office in Okemos, Michigan, is open Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm. For every one of those hours, staff makes it a priority to be available to speak with any member who calls. Voicemail is used as a back-up only, never as a greeting. We know that sometimes you need an answer now and don’t have time to search through a website or navigate a phone menu. With your membership comes a guarantee that on the other end of the phone will be a real, live, responsive, responsible person who will listen to you and help get you what you need. We are here to help you find answers to questions about your practice ranging from scope of practice to human resources—and if we don’t have the answer we can always find someone who does. Call us any time at (517) 347-4710 and we’ll do our best to help you.

HELP THE MVMA STOP ILLEGAL VETERINARY MEDICAL PRACTICE IN MICHIGAN

The MVMA receives frequent reports from members about the unlicensed practice of veterinary medicine in their areas of the state and the harm it can cause to animals. A recent survey of the membership indicated this problem is fairly widespread. As a new member service, MVMA is willing to assist in contacting these entities with a letter letting them know that they are violating Michigan laws by practicing veterinary medicine without a license. The letter is sent with an additional letter from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development expanding on information related to illegal practice. MVMA members who are aware of illegal practice in their area can confidentially report these activities by filling out the Illegal Practice Report Form. Call MVMA at (517) 347-4710 for a form or log in to the members only portion of the website at www.michvma.org. MVMA will follow up by making these individuals aware that they are violating the law and may be committing a felony.

MVMA’S BROCHURES AND FACT SHEETS HELP GUIDE CLIENTS

Did you know that MVMA has a new brochure to help when clients ask about what pet is right for them called “Learn Before You Leap Into Pet Ownership”? Take advantage of this free brochure to help answer some of your client’s toughest questions.

Members can request 25 copies annually at no charge. In addition, if you are a clinic with 100% veterinarian membership, you are entitled to an additional 25 copies of each brochure annually at no charge. Contact us at mvma@michvma.org or (517) 347-4710 and we’ll send out your shipment of these great brochures! Additional supplies can be purchased at MVMA’s cost of 25¢ per copy.

MVMA also has one-page fact sheets for pet owners. As an MVMA member, you can find these on our website and download copies at no charge to provide to clients. Topics include: n n n

What to Do If Your Dog Bites How to Deal With an Overweight Pet Dealing With the Loss of a Pet

n n

Please Spay or Neuter Your Pet Trip Tips

In addition, don’t forget that MVMA has our Cost of Compassion brochure that explains veterinary costs to clients and our Pet Insurance brochure which helps clients understand their pet insurance options. For more information, visit our website at www.michvma.org or contact us at mvma@michvma.org or (517) 347-4710, or visit www. spectrumsurgical.com for more information. the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

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committees meetings & events michigan veterinary conference

mvma committees

mavt fall conference

▸ January 25–27, 2013 Lansing Center & Radisson Hotel, Lansing, MI

▸ Executive (Dr. Susan Sayles, Chair) September 6, 2012 @ noon November 29, 2012 @ noon

▸ Physical Therapy, Communication & Ultrasound Wet Lab October 13, 2012 Courtyard Marriott, Downtown Detroit

▸ Legislative Advisory (Dr. Jean Hudson, Chair) September 6, 2012 @ 9:00 am November 28, 2012 @ 1:30 pm

mvma small animal seminars ▸ Dermatology (Dr. Paul Bloom) October 10, 2012 ▸ Soft Tissue Surgery (Dr. Catriona MacPhail) November 7, 2012 ▸ Toxicology (Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant) December 5, 2012 ▸ Nutrition (Dr. Lisa Weeth) March 13, 2013 Seminars 10:00 am–5:30 pm at the East Lansing Marriott. Contact MVMA at (517) 347-4710 or register online at www.michvma.org.

saginaw valley vma

▸ Public Health (Dr. Joe Kline, Chair) September 12, 2012 @ 1:30 pm December 19, 2012 @ 1:30 pm

▸ Minimally Invasive Surgery: Stomach Bloat & Beyond (Dr. Dan Degner, Michigan Veterinary Specialists) September 26, 2012

All meetings held in the MVMA office unless noted.

▸ Emerging Pathogens & Antibiotic Therapy (Dr. Jim Whitehead, Michigan Veterinary Specialists) October 24, 2012

mvma board of directors

people, pets & vets ▸ Saturday, November 3 @ 11:00 am–3:00 pm Macomb Community College

▸ December 12, 2012 MSU CVM, East Lansing

iaffv au sable river fall meeting

▸ November 10, 2012 @ 8:30 am–4:30 pm Veterinary Medical Center, Michigan State University Lecture and wet lab conducted by Drs. Charlie DeCamp, Loïc Déjardin, Dan Degner, and Curtis Probst

▸ Modern Management of Cardiovascular Diseases (Bari Oliver, DVM, PhD, DACVIM) September 16–21, 2012 Gates Au Sable Lodge, Grayling, MI Five nights lodging, 4 days gided fly fising, 14 hours CE. For

mvma animal welfare conference

information.

▸ Membership (Dr. Sarah Abood, Chair) October 25, 2012 @ 3:30 pm

▸ September 26–27, 2012 St. Francis Retreat, DeWitt (Strategic Planning Session)

mvma /msucvm orthopedic surgery forum

Wisit www.mavt.us/events.htm for online registration and more

All meetings, including dinner, are free to SVVMA members. Cost to nonmembers is $35. Contact Dr. Hylon Heaton III, Secretary/ Treasurer, (810) 239-4635; heatonh@theheatonfamily.org.

thumb vma ▸ Updates on Feline Hyperthyroidism (Dr. Steven Bailey) September 20, 2012 / Caro, MI ▸ Clinical Approach to Weight Loss in a Horse (Dr. Judy Marteniuk) October 18, 2012 / Sandusky, MI Contact Dr. Kevin Stachowiak at drkevin@casevillevet.com or (989) 856-3525 for more information.

further information: sawyerdon30@gmail.com; wwwiaffv.org.

▸ November 19, 2012 @ 8:30 am–5:00 pm MSU Pavillion, East Lansing, MI

western michigan vma livingston vma ▸ Wound Management (Dr. Dan Degner) November 15, 2012

▸ Veterinarian CE Seminars 3rd Tuesday of each month, January–May & September–November @ 7:00 pm / Grand Rapids

Meetings will be held at the Downtown Martini Bar & Grille in

Contact Jeff Johnson, DVM, (616) 837-8151, or jdandcj2008@

Brighton. RSVP to lcvma1@yahoo.com or call (810) 623-0391.

dishmail.net.

due to the number of requests for ce announcements, the michigan veterinarian limits listings to ce programs in michigan.

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the michigan veterinarian • fall 2012

the michigan ve terinarian • fall 2012

35

michigan veterinary medical association

Professional excellence.

Compassionate care.

2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864-3986

Presort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Lansing, MI Permit #713