Winter 2015

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 . . .

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MVMA’s New 2nd Vice President

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MVMA Launches Online CE Portal

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Legislative Update

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People, Pets & Vets

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Miracle of Life Exhibit

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Privately Owned Cervids

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Waste Segregation and Disposal in Veterinary Facilities

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Iodine 131 to Treat Thyroid Carcinoma in “Rocco”

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What You Need to Protect Your License

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The Native Ponies of Southeast Asia

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When Happens When a Client Files a Complaint Against You?

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MVMA Launches New Strategic Plan

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he MVMA Board of Directors met on July 28–29 at West Bay Beach Resort in Traverse City to set the 2016–2018 strategic direction of the Association. During the planning session, the leadership drafted four strategic goals with supporting strategies and performance metrics.

The leadership also reviewed the organization’s mission and drafted vision and values statements.

“One voice promoting professional excellence in veterinary medicine and advancing animal wellbeing and public health.”

MVMA believes in . . . n Delivering compassionate, empathetic, and ethical care n Protecting and advancing the health and welfare of animals and the public n Promoting a trusted profession through a strong, diverse, and inclusive association n Providing personal and professional service, solutions, and support to our members n Elevating the profession through relevant, progressive, and quality continuing education and dynamic resources

MVMA’S VISION STATEMENT

STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS

“Safe and healthy Michigan for animals, veterinarians, and the public through a progressive, responsive, trusted, and unified association.”

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MVMA’S MISSION STATEMENT

Practice Owners, Are You Sending Mixed Messages to Your Team? back cove r

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

MVMA’S VALUES STATEMENT

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goal #1: member value and growth. Increase member value and stimulate membership growth and diversity continued on page 2 .

. “Strategic Plan,” from front cover

Professional excellence.

Compassionate care.

2144 Commons Pkwy., Okemos, MI 48864-3986 tel (517) 347-4710 · fax (517) 347-4666 email mvma@michvma.org web www.michvma.org facebook www.facebook.com/ilovemyvet twitter www.twitter.com/michiganvma youtube www.youtube.com/michiganvma pinterest www.pinterest.com/michvma

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Published quarterly in March, June, September, and December.

Deadlines are the first of the preceding month. editors Karlene B. Belyea, MBA

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Sheri Fandel

2015 mvma officers & directors officers Dr. Julie Cappel, President Dr. Kevin Stachowiak, President-Elect Dr. Bruce Cozzens, 1st Vice President Dr. Lori Penman, 2nd Vice President Dr. Therese Burns, Immediate Past President Dr. Kathleen Smiler, AVMA Delegate Dr. Stephen Steep, AVMA Alternate Delegate Karlene Belyea, MBA, Chief Executive Officer directors representing districts Dr. Joyce Balnaves, (1) Southern Dr. Kristin Knirk, (2 & 3) Michiana & Southwestern Dr. Melissa Owings, (4) Jackson Dr. Lauren Gnagey, (5 & 9) Washtenaw & Livingston Dr. Christian Ast, (6 & 8) Wayne & Oakland Dr. Jamie Snow, (10) Mid-State Dr. Chad Ackerman, (11) Western Dr. Kurt Dunckel, (12) Saginaw Dr. Tom Michalek, (13) Thumb Dr. Anne Shuff, (14) Northeastern Dr. Marcia Izo, (15) Northern

MVMA recently completed a strategic planning process and is recruiting volunteers for two new task forces—the Young Professionals Task Force and the Continuing Education Task Force. We are looking for interested MVMA members to help us move the association forward in these areas and would love your help! What will these Task Forces be doing?

goal #4: advocacy. Advocate for higher standards of care in the veterinary profession and influence legislation impacting Michigan DVMs.

A great deal of strategies and tactics are included in each goal, and the Board has assigned existing committees to do much of the work. Two additional Task Forces are being put together to assist. If you are interested in helping or have questions, please contact Karlene Belyea at Belyea@ michvma.org.

CONTINUING EDUCATION (CE) TASK FORCE

This new task force will focus on the best ways to deliver exceptional, accessible, entertaining and innovative continuing education. The group will: n

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YOUNG PROFESSIONALS TASK FORCE

This new task force will explore new ways to bring value to Millennials and young DVMs. The group will: n

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layout/design Charlie Sharp/Sharp Des!gns, Lansing, MI

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Do you want to make a difference in the veterinary profession? Become active in the MVMA!

directors representing associations Dr. Mike Thome, MI Equine Practitioners Dr. Steven Bailey, Southeastern Michigan VMA at-large directors Dr. Erin Howard, Food Animal Dr. Charles DeCamp, MSU CVM vacant, Lab Animal Medicine

by delivering exceptional and well-communicated benefits, new ways of engagement, and services that meet the needs of DVMs in all stages of their careers. goal #2: continuing education. Deliver exceptional, accessible, entertaining, and innovative continuing education to raise the standard of care and professionalism. goal #3: public awareness. Establish veterinarians as the leading authority on animal health and well-being in Michigan through focused public education and outreach.

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▪ 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.

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Identify key connection vehicles to engage Millennials and young DVMs. Pursue the creation of an online community and personalizing the membership experience.

Create engagement paths for new members to take such as micro-volunteering opportunities.

Explore creating resources to assist with student loan and debt challenges.

Provide mobile-friendly access to all MVMA information.

Review the MVMA “Answer Team” mentorship program for relevance, as well as consider reverse mentoring.

Assist with creating new and progressive continuing education options for young DVMs.

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Identify new/alternative modalities for offering CE. Explore capturing and repurposing content from MVMA events to use in multiple ways.

Promote economic value of CE to practice owners.

Evaluate MVMA’s current in-person CE in order to increase attendance.

Review cost-effectiveness of existing programs and consider repurposing programs to increase interest and attendance, as well as maximizing use of resources.

Explore and pursue cost-effective collaborations with other institutions and organizations for CE offerings.

Set up and promote a high-quality tracking system for CE as a member benefit.

If you are interested in becoming a part of one of these task forces, please contact Karlene Belyea at Belyea@michvma.org.

MVMA also has a variety of other committees if these task forces don’t pique your interest. Go to http://www.michvma. org/?page=MVMACommittees for more details.

Volunteer with MVMA and make a difference!

MICHAEL J. THOME, DVM, DIPL. ABVP (EQUINE)

MVMA’s New 2nd Vice President

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he MVMA is pleased to announce that Dr. Michael J. Thome will be joining the Executive Committee as MVMA’s 2016 Second Vice President. Dr. Thome is the owner-veterinarian of Meadow View Veterinary Service, a growing large animal practice in Carson City, MI. He graduated from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1989, completed the Dairy Production Medicine Certificate Program at Pennsylvania State University in 1996, and became board certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in Equine Practice in 2008. He has been a member of the MVMA since 1995, and has been active on the Food Animal Practice Committee, Michigan Veterinary Conference Planning Committee, and chairs the Leadership Development Committee. Dr. Thome is completing his second term as representative to the Board of Directors for the Equine Practice Committee (formerly Michigan Equine Practitioners Association).

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to continue serving on the Board by moving to the Executive Committee,” says Dr. Thome.

“Serving on the Board is an honor in that it is a situation from which I gain so much more back than I could possibly put into it. Truly as veterinarians we have more in common than we have differences, no matter what

part of the profession we work in. One of the strategic plan objectives for the Board is to return the veterinarian to the role of the leading authority when it comes to animal health. I feel very strongly about that.”

Meadow View Veterinary Service is housed on the grounds of WinterSpring

Farm, the Thomes’ equine boarding and dressage training facility. Mike and his wife Sue have been married since 1986. They have three adult children. They share their home with two dogs, one cat, and four chickens. Mike is an avid fly-fisherman and likes to cook.

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS ARNIE HENTSCHL, DVM

Dr. Arnie Hentschl received the American Association of Bovine Practitioners Merial Excellence in Preventive Medicine Award at the AABP Annual Meeting in September.

This award recognizes individual member practitioners or practices that have developed outstanding preventive medicine programs.

Dr. Hentschl owns Harbor Beach Vet Services, PC, in Harbor Beach, Michigan. He has been a long-time active member of the MVMA and received Life Member status in 2004.

MERLIN EKSTROM, DVM, MS, DACVP

Dr. Merlin Ekstrom was named 2015 Distinguished Alumnus by Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences. Dr. Ekstrom served more than 24 years in the Air Force and Michigan Air National Guard retiring as a Lt. Colonel. He was awarded the Joint Services Commendation Medal and the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal. He spent the last 40 years at Detroit’s Wayne State University serving as the attending

veterinarian and director of the Division of Laboratory Animal Resources.

As a board certified veterinary pathologist, Dr. Ekstrom taught pathology in Wayne State University’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences to approximately 7,500 pharmacy, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and radiation therapy technology students. He has served on many state and national committees, won several peer reviewed NIH grants, been a volunteer member of the Michigan Veterinary Corps, and much more throughout his career. the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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MVMA Launches Online CE Portal!

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ith mandatory continuing medical education (CME) on the horizon, MVMA is launching our new Continuing Education portal, exclusively for MVMA members. On our portal, there are more than 800 courses you can choose from, with over 500 that are completely free. The portal was developed in conjunction with the World CE Alliance and the World Veterinary Association.

When Michigan House Bill 4408 on mandatory CME passes, veterinarians will be required to obtain 45 hours of CE every three years and veterinary technicians will be required to obtain 15 hours in three years. Our CE portal is an easy and inexpensive way to obtain those credits. In addition, our portal will track your CE, even from external sources, and you can enter requirements for licenses you hold in other states to track your compliance with those laws as well.

To take advantage of this new member benefit, just follow these instructions: n

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If you haven’t registered yet, check your email for an invitation from noreply@wcea.education to create a free account from the World Continuing Education Alliance, or log in to the MVMA website to access the portal under the “Continuing Education” dropdown menu.

Create your account by entering a password and your contact information, and selecting any CE requirements or areas of study that you’d like to focus on. MVMA will automatically enter CE requirements when mandatory CE becomes law in Michigan but if you have requirements in other states, you can enter those.

Search for e-learning modules by choosing the blue “Start Searching Now” button on the homepage or by clicking on the Search ELearning link on the left-side menu. You can sort CE by relevance, newest, peer review, most viewed, and price. There are currently over 500 free courses available in addition to the courses requiring you to purchase them.

If you have checked you spam filter and still haven’t received an invitation or need your MVMA login information, please contact us at mvma@michvma.org to register.

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t NOVEMBER 17, 2015 NOVEMB

Legislative Update

he Michigan Legislature continues to debate various road funding proposals as Thanksgiving rapidly draws near.

Money for roads has no apparent relationship to the current push for Continuing Medical Education (CME) except in one area, increased user fees. The endless debate and “no new taxes” pledge of a number of State Representatives is making progress on many issues difficult if not impossible.

In the middle of the Tea Party turmoil and legislators being expelled from the House, we have made significant progress on CME. The main bill, hb 4408,was introduced this spring by Rep. Kathy Crawford of Novi. It was heard for the first time in the House Agriculture Committee and the Governor’s office agreed to drop opposition if sufficient licensure fees could be agreed to.

Negotiations with the governor’s office and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) were successful and the following format was agreed to:

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Veterinarian and veterinary technician licenses would be extended from two to three years.

Veterinarian CME requirements would be adjusted to 45 hours in the past three years to accommodate the extension. This is still an average of 15 hours per year but can be taken any time in the three-year licensure period.

The effective date was moved out three years to facilitate enough time for practitioners to achieve the necessary program hours.

Veterinary technician licenses were also brought into the same three-year licensure term and CME requirements, 15 hours any time in the past 3 years.

An additional provision has been requested by LARA that would specifically provide for electronic licensure renewals and payment. MVMA strongly supports the concept and we are awaiting specific language from the department.

hb 4408 was heard for the second time in the House Agriculture on October 28, 2015 and was voted out on November 4 with unanimous, bipartisan support.

Negotiations this summer were both frustrating and productive with LARA on 6

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veterinary program costs including the new CME requirement. Both Dr. Hank Vaupel and Dr. Larry Letsche were key in the debate on fees with LARA. As former chairs of the Board of Veterinary Medicine, both provided valuable insight and knowledge of the licensing activities for the veterinary profession. As a direct result of their work, LARA accepted fee increases of $15 per year for both veterinarians and veterinary technicians to cover both the existing licensure program and implementation of the new CME requirement.

Because the House Rules did not permit the use of hb 4408 to adjust the fees, Rep. Ed McBroom from Iron Mountain graciously agreed to amend his legislation to include the fees. His legislation is hb 4999 and it also cleans up a pharmacy issue for veterinarians. This bill provides: n

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Michigan pharmacies to honor prescriptions from out-of-state veterinarians. This aids in maintaining multi-state reciprocity, especially in bordering states.

Increases the annual licensure fees for veterinarians and veterinary technicians by $15 per year.

Begins the new fee structure in three years when the new CME program is fully implemented.

Both bills are “tie barred” together and are expected to be voted to the House floor soon. In addition to support from MVMA, Dean John Baker of MSU CVM graciously provided a written letter of support for hb 4408.

So what does this entire legislative dance mean to MVMA members? We are on track and hopeful for House passage yet this year. The proposal has been refined to bring real efficiencies to both practitioners and regulators in the licensure process. Fees will increase marginally but we receive the flexible yet effective CME program the MVMA seeks. Fees will not increase for three years until the CME program is implemented.

Our timetable is passage by the Michigan House of Representatives yet this year with Senate action next spring. We will keep you updated after the Thanksgiving break when the Legislature returns.

—George Carr, MVMA Lobbyist

People, Pets & Vets

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he 12th annual MVMA People, Pets & Vets program was held on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at Macomb Community College in Clinton Township, Michigan. It was an absolutely gorgeous fall day and over 1,100 people came out to enjoy the event! The great weather made visiting with the horses, farrier and the Shetland sheep a fun time upon arrival and also as families left the event. Miss Daisy Donkey, a miniature Sicilian donkey with a prosthetic foot, made a guest appearance too, showing folks that animals with disabilities can have wonderful lives. Yates, a Frisbee dog, entertained guests with his amazing skills. Local 4-H groups provided canine agility demonstrations with several different dog breeds out on the lawn too.

People, Pets & Vets proudly hosted over 45 creative educational booths which were staffed by veterinarians, veterinary technicians, MSU veterinary students, MCC veterinary technician students, animal service groups, 4-H groups, and other animal care providers. Display subjects included dentistry, ophthalmology, cardiology, obesity, surgery, anesthesia, rehabilitation therapy, blood banking, endoscopy, radiology, behavior modification, integrative medicine for large and small animals, veterinary career opportunities, farrier work, and many more. Booth sponsors and attendees all seemed to really enjoy the day!

The MVMA Healthy Pet Surgical Suite continues to be a favorite feature at this event, showcasing the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Several surgeries were performed at People, Pets & Vets for animals awaiting adoption through the local shelter—complete with narration and camera footage up-close in the surgery suite for the attendees. The MVMA/MSU “Science, Animals, Medicine & You” was also represented with MSU veterinary students showcasing neat and icky things for the kids to see, touch and ask questions about. Students from the Pathology Club at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine also participated in the event continuing their unbroken attendance streak and brought all the favorite creepy samples along for everyone to get that hands-on experience!

The Teddy Bear Clinic was extremely busy as usual! Children brought their stuffed animals in record numbers for outpatient care as Macomb Community College (MCC) vet tech students triaged the patients. There were also some gently used stuffed animals available to be “rescued/adopted” for kids who may have forgotten their pal at home. What a great way to teach about veterinary care and the human-animal bond directly! The MCC Vet Tech Puppet Show, which debuted last year, got rave reviews again! Numerous live animal booths provided up-close and personal encounters with many species including pigeons, chinchillas, Galapagos tortoises, lizards, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, rabbits and baby bunnies, several dogs and cats, too (even a couple kittens—a big hit). Animals with careers were also on hand—Liberty Riders, USA Therapy Dogs, and Canine Office Baxter with his human partner from the Macomb County Sheriff Department all participated in the fun this fall.

People, Pets & Vets is truly a success because of the great people who come out and share their time with the guests each fall. The team effort and atmosphere provided by the veterinarians and staff, MCC’s veterinary technology program and their 62 student volunteers, animal care groups and educators, animal service groups and 4-H groups continues to be a wonderful example of what makes our profession so rewarding and worthwhile! The success of the program truly is a result of their combined efforts and I thank them all for their time and energy. Look for us again next fall on Saturday, November 5, 2016! We always welcome new, energetic volunteers! If you are interested in participating next fall, please feel free to contact me anytime.

— Tari Kern, DVM, CCRP, CVMA, CVSMT, MVMA People, Pets & Vets Coordinator peoplepetsvets@yahoo.com / Like us on https://www.facebook.com/PeoplePetsVets

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2016 U.P. STATE FAIR

Miracle of Life Exhibit

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ugust 18–23 marked the 22nd year for the Miracle of Life Exhibit at the Upper Peninsula State Fair. Drs. Renee Coyer and Gail Hoholik-Jacobs have chaired the event for the past nine years. This year the number of births were down due to the lack of our sows who aborted their litters. Dr. Barry Wehner plans to continue to breed the sows for the exhibit so we hope to have them back next year. We were also unable to hatch chicks in the exhibit due to avian influenza in Michigan. This presented a teaching opportunity for us and we were able to open discussions with the public about how infectious diseases impact Michigan’s agricultural economy.

We had 7 calves and 14 lambs born during fairr week. The greatest activity was on August 19 when n we had 12 lambs and 4 calves born, most of which h were born during exhibit hours and with large crowds watching. Attendance at the fair was strong ng and the MOL remains the most popular exhibit att the fair.

“This year we had a great crew of students” said Dr. Coyer. Returning team leader Trevor Walling recruited classmates Patterson Gelok, Paige Como, Katie Lee, Brittany Zumbo, Cody Pollins, Shelby Motoligin, and Leah Girard to help with this year’s exhibit. Dr. Hoholik added, “This group of students was motivated and prepared. They welcomed hard work and were able to work independently and interact with the public professionally.”

Drs. Coyer and Hoholik-Jacobs would also like to thank Steve and Becky Brock of Brock Farms in Daggett for their continued support. “The Brocks are very supportive of our exhibit. They go out of their way to take time from their busy schedules to deliver new cows and pick up the ones that have calved. They help us move the cattle and enjoy interacting with the students.”

Exhibit sponsors include MVMA, Farm Credit Services, and Farm Bureau. “All of these sponsors have been long-term supporters of the MOL exhibit.

We couldn’t have the exhibit without their support.” remarked Dr. Coyer. “We also want to thank the local veterinarians who continue to work the exhibit and mentor the students. “Local DVM support is provided by Drs. Sue Laskaska, Tom Gustafson, Laura Havelka, Coleen Heitman, Ben Bartlett, Mike Brunner, Jim Boydston, Gina Laur, Ericka McCarthy, and LVT Wanda LeMaster.

Downstaters Drs. Ron Schwab and Hollie Rebo took time out of their busy schedules to assist us with the exhibit this year as well.

—Drs. Renee Coyer and Gail Hoholik-Jacobs, Miracle of Life Co-Chairs

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11 REASONS NOT TO MISS THE MICHIGAN VETERINARY CONFERENCE • • • • • JANUARY 29–31, 2015 • • • • •

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You will learn from leading speakers and discover new ways to practice.

CE tracks include companion animal, food animal, equine, small ruminants, practical animal behavior and welfare, emerging animal health and disease topics, practice management, staff development, veterinary technology, and nontraditional medicine.

You can explore the new “Veterinary Practice Solutions Marketplace” with over 100 exhibitors to welcome you. Also new are expert updates and open question sessions by MSU Veterinary Medical Center.

The MVC has a new app to help you navigate the conference and take advantage of all that is occurring onsite!

You can attend fast-paced, 15-minute sessions on neurology, cardiology, and soft tissue surgery topics for immediate take-home ideas.

Wet labs will provide veterinarians and veterinary technicians with hands-on learning.

You can engage with your colleagues and content leaders to share new ideas to implement back at your office/practice.

Attending CE in Michigan helps our economy, saves you money, and even provides special low lodging rates.

Lunches, continental breakfasts, and other refreshments are included with your registration fee at no additional cost to you.

The MVC is centrally located with easy access.

You will rejuvenate your creativity and return with plenty of new ideas!

Animal Welfare Fund

In Memoriam

Veterinarians: You know about Michigan’s Animal Welfare Fund . . . but do your clients?

The Animal Welfare Fund has provided significant funding to our state’s animal shelters for spay/neuter programs, training and to combat animal cruelty.

It’s a good program. It can be more effective if more people knew about it and contributed when they file State taxes.

You can help by providing materials in your clinic during tax season (January to April 15, 2016). Attorneys for Animals, a Michigan-based nonprofit and tax-exempt organization, will have materials especially tailored for veterinarians for you to download, post, print, display, and distribute.

To participate, contact info@attorneys foranimals.org.

Garth Corrie, DVM, died on August 3, 2015, at the age of 94. He graduated from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and was a life member of MVMA. Dr. Corrie operated a mixed animal practice in the Big Rapids and Stanwood areas and also worked at the Animal Disease Eradication Division of the USDA working on Large Animal and Poultry Disease Assignments in several states until retiring in 1981.

Dennis H. Cadreau, DVM, died on August 26, 2015, at the age of 62. He graduated from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine and was a loyal Spartan. Dr. Cadreau owned and operated House Calls Veterinary Services in East Jordan.

The MVMA extends its sympathy to the friends and families of departed members. In memory of deceased members, the MVMA contributes $50 to the Michigan Animal Health Foundation. Friends of deceased members may send memorial contributions to the Foundation. When contributions reach $500, the member’s name is entered on a memorial plaque displayed in the MVMA office. The MVMA staff thanks those thoughtful members who take time to notify the office and send obituaries of our recently deceased members.

Take Full Advantage of Social Media from MVMA! Crank up your clinic’s social media! Share, retweet or repost any of the content the MVMA posts on Facebook, Twitter, or on www.michvma.org on your clinic’s social media!

All information shared on these sites is for our members to help in sharing news and can also be shared with clients. If you have not done so already, like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ilovemyvet and follow us on Twitter @MichiganVMA. By following the MVMA through these outlets, you will be able to stay current on happenings in Michigan and on the national veterinary medical scene. the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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t Privately STATE VETERINARIAN’S BULLETIN

Owned Cervids James Averill, DVM, PhD

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he Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Animal Industry Division and the State Veterinarian are responsible for protecting, regulating, and promoting animal health in Michigan. This mission encompasses the state’s growing privately owned cervid industry. The potential for contact between wild deer and privately owned cervids (POC), also known as deer behind fences, is of great concern to the state’s cervid industry and important to the health of Michigan’s cervid herds.

MDARD and Michigan Department of Natural Resources work together to manage Michigan’s privately owned cervid programs and assist the state’s cervid producers. MDARD manages the disease programs for the state’s POC facilities while the DNR oversees POC registration and performs inspections of the facilities.

Currently, Michigan has 375 POC facilities; there are approximately 200 breeding operations and 35 exhibition or hobby. The remaining are ranches or hunting facilities which can ranging in size from 40 acres to 1,500 acres. Combined, these POC facilities house 19,000 whitetail, 100 reindeer, 1,800

elk, 800 fallow deer, 170 sika deer, and 400 red deer.

There are two primary diseases of concern for Michigan’s cervid owners, bovine tuberculosis, and chronic wasting disease. Each disease program has both a mandatory and voluntary component to ensure testing on all herds in the state and protect the health of the herd. For example, in the Voluntary CWD Program, producers must test 100 percent of their mortalities, while those in the Mandatory CWD Program test 25 percent. By meeting higher diseasetesting criteria for CWD and bovine TB and participating in the voluntary program

producers are given more freedom to move animals without doing individual testing.

Chronic wasting disease is a transmissible neurological disease of deer and elk producing small lesions in brains of infected animals. CWD causes weight loss and eventually death. It’s a species-specific disease and there have been no cases in humans or other animals. Current evidence suggests CWD is transmitted directly from one animal to another through saliva, feces, and urine and indirectly through the environment when infectious prion proteins are shed in these fluids.

To date, CWD has been detected twice in Michigan. In August of 2008, AID confirmed CWD in a three-year old white-tailed deer from a privately owned cervid herd in Kent County. Trace work was conducted and no additional positive animals were found. This past May, the DNR confirmed its first case of CWD in a free-ranging white-tailed deer in Ingham County. There were two additional positives found in the same vicinity through surveillance testing. The three positive animals were all from the same extended family. Since 1998, 34,000 samples have been taken of free-ranging, white-tailed deer and 21,000 samples of privately owned deer with the above being the only positive detections.

Michigan is among 23 states and two Canadian provinces that have detected CWD in deer, elk, and moose in free-ranging or captive populations or both.

Another disease of concern is one many veterinary practitioners are familiar with—bovine TB. Bovine TB is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that primarily occurs in cattle, and can also infect other animals and humans. This disease mainly affects the lungs and is transmitted through respiratory secretions between infected and healthy animals.

Bovine TB is endemic certain areas of northern Michigan in the freeranging deer herd.

There are many ways veterinarians can help protect Michigan’s cervid industry while benefitting their practice. Many producers have substantial financial investment in these animals and are looking for veterinarians to provide expertise in veterinary care for animal health issues and routine testing. Both CWD and bovine TB testing are at the owner’s expense and can create revenue for practices.

There is no approved live animal test for CWD. Brain and lymph node samples are submitted for testing after an animal dies. All POC facilities are required to submit samples, and the number of samples submitted varies based on the producer’s program. Small-animal practitioners can participate in CWD sampling because producers can bring the heads to the clinic for the brain stem and lymph node sampling.

Bovine TB testing is required for all deer moving between premises in Michigan. Herds in the voluntary accreditation program undergo wholeherd tests every three years and are conducted by designated, accredited veterinarians.

If you are a veterinarian interested in providing services, AID’s Cervid Program is hosting a training session for veterinarians in early 2016 to review the rules for the CWD and TB programs, which includes a wet lab on CWD sampling.

If you have questions related to cervids, are interested in attending the training, or are in need of reference materials, contact Dr. Cherie Collins at (517) 284-5686 or CollinsC3@michigan.gov.

IMPORTANT REGULATORY COMPLIANCE NOTICE

Waste Segregation and Disposal in Veterinary Facilities t has come to the attention of staff in the Medical Waste Regulatory Program within DEQ that there is confusion regarding actual state and federal regulatory requirements with regard to waste generated at a veterinary facility and how that waste must be disposed of.

We have received reports that sales representatives from a private vendor may be offering misleading information in regard a new service being added to an existing medical waste pick-up service in which black hazardous waste boxes are being ‘required’ for non-hazardous and/or expired pharmaceutical waste items. The intent of this article is to notify members that this is not based on any new state or federal mandates. It is only a requirement of the vendor should they choose to make it mandatory as part of a waste service contract.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) cannot endorse or condone any private service vendor or their marketing practices. However, we feel it is important to educate facility owners on the issue and ensure they are not under the impression that they are out of compliance with state and federal regulations if they opt out of any such service or change vendors. A vendor may require you as a client to use the service for non-hazardous and/or expired pharmaceutical waste items, but it is a vendor requirement only.

Please note that although the US Environmental Protection Agency is proposing rules on proper handling of pharmaceutical waste, there are currently NO state or federal regulations in place that require you to purchase an extra service to handle non-hazardous waste pharmaceuticals. The only exception to this rule would be if the facility generates what is legally considered to be non-empty hazardous waste residues. If you are unsure whether or not you generate hazardous waste chemicals or pharmaceuticals, please contact Ms. Christine Grossman with the DEQ Office of Environmental Assistance at (517) 284-6860.

Additional information is available at www.michigan.gov/ deqmedwaste including a copy of the law and rules, FAQs, a directory of different waste types generated in all medical settings, and a listing of medical waste disposal vendors.

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—Andrew L. Shannon, Environmental Quality Specialist, Medical Waste Regulatory Program (517) 230-9800 / shannona1@michigan.gov

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MSU-CVM CASE STUDY

Iodine 131 to Treat Thyroid Carcinoma in “Rocco”

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History and Diagnosis A seven-year-old Labrador cross from Israel named Rocco was presented to Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center (MSU VMC) oncology service to discuss treatment options for his recently diagnosed thyroid carcinoma. Six months previously, Rocco’s owner had noticed enlargement in the laryngeal area of his neck. This was confirmed by his local veterinarian, as well as cervical node enlargement being noted. Additional chest radiographs revealed the presence of a few pulmonary nodules. Biopsy revealed the cervical mass to be consistent with solid thyroid carcinoma. Thyroid levels (T4) were within the normal range at that time. The owner noted that throughout the process, Rocco had not exhibited any behavioral changes. Rocco was up-to-date on all vaccines, and he had no prior history of malignant disease.

Treatment and Outcome In search of specialist care, Rocco’s owner reached out to Dr. Paulo Vilar of the MSU VMC Oncology Service. Dr. Vilar confirmed the Service’s capability to assess and potentially treat Rocco, so Rocco and his owner traveled to MSU from Israel for a visit to the United States.

Following examination at MSU VMC, Rocco’s assessment included chest radiographs and a technetium scan. Throughout the entire pulmonary parenchyma, there were multifocal and well-defined round soft-tissue masses of various sizes that were too numerous to count.

The cardiovascular structures were unremarkable. These results were interpreted as multifocal pulmonary metastasis, secondary to the known thyroid carcinoma.

Vilar administered 3 mCi of technetium99m pertechnetate and static images were obtained of the neck, thorax, and abdomen 20 minutes post injection. Within the ventral midline cervical region, just cranioventral to the thyroid glands, a large lobular mass was present with marked heterogeneous uptake. The thyroid and parathyroid glands were normal in size and uptake. A few round, variously sized regions had moderate uptake in the thorax.

No abdominal uptake was observed. This was interpreted as a large ventral cervical region mass, representing neoplasia, ectopic thyroid carcinoma, with pulmonary metastasis.

Rocco was injected subcutaneously with Iodine 131. The patient was then placed in isolation for 14 days until his radioactivity levels had reached a safe point. The Iodine 131, which has a short life span, is absorbed by the thyroid malignant cells, where it disintegrates.

The compound releases energy upon disintegration that damages the cells’ DNA and induces cell death. This method provides a less invasive and more targeted treatment than other alternatives to the systemic disease.

Comments Thyroid carcinoma is a cancer of the epithelial cells that are located in and around the thyroid gland. About 60% of dogs with thyroid neoplasia are euthyroid, 30% are hypothyroid, and 10% are hyperthyroid. Thyroid tumors account for 1.2% to 3.8% of all tumors in dogs. Most of the canine thyroid tumors are considered to be malignant and up to 35% of dogs have visible metastatic disease at initial presentation, and as many as 80% ultimately develop metastasis later in the course of disease. The lungs and regional lymph nodes are most often affected.

Based on Rocco’s thoracic radiographs, there is obvious metastasis in his lungs.

Treatment for thyroid carcinomas must focus on control of both the local disease (the thyroid mass) and the systemic (metastatic) disease. Local treatment options include surgery, radiation, and/or radioactive iodine therapy (I131). Systemic treatment is usually done with chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, or radioactive iodine (I131).

Iodine 131 is a radioactive substance administered systemically based on the theory that iodine will be trapped in the thyroid tissue, as well as any metastatic foci, making this a relatively selective therapy. The limited studies available in dogs suggest a benefit to this therapy. MSU is one of the only veterinary medical facilities in the United States able to provide this compound to dogs. Rocco’s prognosis would have been grave if not for the therapy received. While metastatic thyroid carcinomas are incurable, adjuvant therapies (I131 or chemotherapy) may help to reduce the progression of the disease and to increase survival time and quality of life. Rocco is currently enjoying life in Israel more than six months after treatment, despite massive pulmonary metastatic disease. the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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What You Need to Know to Protect Your License

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eterinarians are legally obligated to maintain certain levels of professional conduct.

An animal owner seeking redress for a veterinarian who fails to maintain that level of conduct may pursue a lawsuit for malpractice or file a complaint with the Michigan licensing board. Due to the lack of substantial monetary damages or financial resources, animal owners are more likely to pursue their grievance with the state licensing agency.

Shirlee M. Bobryk White, Schneider, Young & Chiodini, P.C.

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A licensing complaint is a matter every veterinarian would prefer to avoid. The disciplinary process for licensed veterinarians frequently starts when a dissatisfied pet owner lodges a complaint with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). If warranted, LARA will initiate an investigation. If grounds exist, a formal complaint is issued. The veterinarian has a right to a hearing before an administrative law judge, to be represented by legal counsel, and to present evidence in defense of the allegations. After hearing all the evidence, the administrative law judge submits a Proposal for Decision to the disciplinary subcommittee of the Board of Veterinary Medicine.

The disciplinary subcommittee has the authority to accept the administrative law judge’s proposed decision, render its own findings of fact and conclusions of law, or dismiss the complaint. If it finds that the veterinarian violated the Public Health Code, the disciplinary subcommittee imposes sanctions, which may include a fine, reprimand, probation, suspension, or revocation of the veterinarian’s license. The veterinarian may also be ordered to complete continuing education courses. The decision may only be appealed to the Court of Appeals. The entire process is distressing, costly, and if a sanction is imposed, leaves a permanent blemish on the veterinarian’s licensing record that is available to the public.

The Michigan Public Health Code provides the legal framework for disciplinary action against health professionals and requires the disciplinary subcommittee to discipline a veterinarian if it finds any of the following:

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A violation of general duty, consisting of negligence or failure to exercise due care, including negligent delegation to or supervision of employees or other individuals, regardless of whether any injury occurs Any conduct, practice, or condition that impairs, or may impair, the ability to safely and skillfully engage in the practice of veterinary medicine Incompetence Substance abuse Mental or physical inability reasonably related to and adversely affecting the veterinarian’s ability to practice in a safe and competent manner A court finding the veterinarian to be mentally incompetent Conviction of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for a maximum of two years Conviction of a misdemeanor for illegal delivery, possession, or use of a controlled substance Conviction of any felony Lack of good moral character Fraud in obtaining or renewing your license or in attempting to obtain thirdparty reimbursement Permitting your license to be used by an unauthorized person Practicing outside the scope of your license Unethical business practices such as false or misleading advertising, dividing fees for referral of patients, or accepting kickbacks on medical services, appliances, or medications purchased by or on behalf of patients

DON’T FORGET TO RENEW YOUR LICENSE! Renewals must now be done online. n

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Unprofessional conduct consisting of misrepresentation to a patient or consumer or in attempting to obtain a thirdparty reimbursement, betrayal of a professional confidence, promotion for personal gain of an unnecessary drug, device, treatment, procedure, or service Failing to report a change of name or mailing address to LARA within 30 days after the change occurs.

Some of the infractions listed are clear and simple to understand. Some are not.

For example, one might think that if a veterinarian is convicted of criminal assault and battery (a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of not more than 93 days, a fine up to $500, or both) it would demonstrate a “lack of good moral character.”

The Michigan Court of Appeals, however, held that it does not. Precisely what activities constitute “lack of good moral character” is simply not well-defined.

Similarly, a wide range of conduct may violate the “general duty, consisting of negligence or failure to exercise due care.” Misdiagnosing an animal’s illness doesn’t always mean the veterinarian was negligent; perhaps the animal presented contradictory symptoms. Negligence is determined on a case-by-case basis.

“Incompetence” means failing to conform to the minimum standards of “acceptable and prevailing practice” for a veterinarian. In order to prove those standards, LARA may retain another veterinarian as an expert witness. As long as the expert’s testimony is evidence that a reasonable person would accept as sufficient to support concluding that the veterinarian is incompetent, the disciplinary subcommittee’s findings are unlikely to be reversed on appeal, even if the veterinarian retains his or her own expert witness who gives a conflicting opinion.

The veterinarian’s medical records are an important tool in defending licensing complaints. LARA can demand a veterinarian to release all pertinent records as part of a complaint investigation. The veterinarian may be able to completely recall the care and treatment provided to an animal. But, if the medical records are incomplete, it will serve as a basis for disciplinary action, even if the veterinarian was not negligent in caring for the animal.

Failing to maintain the minimum standard of veterinary medical records places the veterinarian in the difficult, if not impossible, position of being able to successfully defend allegations in any licensing case.

Simply stated, if it’s not in the medical records, then it didn’t happen. If the disciplinary subcommittee finds a veterinarian failed to maintain adequate medical records in accordance with the minimal standard of practice for a veterinarian, it will lead to sanctions.

The Michigan Public Health Code is liberally construed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Unlike a malpractice lawsuit, proving a licensing violation is substantially less burdensome and requires a lower burden of proof. A malpractice lawsuit may be out of reach for most pet owners. But making a licensing complaint is simple and easy to do. Are you ready to defend it?

Shirlee M. Bobryk is a partner at White, Schneider, Young & Chiodini, P.C. in Okemos. She represents a variety of health professionals, including veterinarians, in licensing cases, general business matters, and employment law.

MVMA partners with White, Schneider, Young & Chiodini, P.C. to assist our members. If you have a legal question, first contact MVMA at mvma@michvma.org or (517) 347-4710. If MVMA is unable to assist with the question, you will be referred to the law firm. Members receive free 15-minute telephone consultations as often as necessary. In addition, if a member decides to pursue legal action using the firm, they receive a 10% reduction on the attorneys’ customary billing rates.

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ach year, MVMA received a couple of calls from panicked members who forgot to renew their veterinary licenses. Remember that you must renew every two years and the expiration date is always December 31. Licenses must now be renewed by going online to the e-License website at www.michigan.gov/elicense. A renewal notice is mailed to your address of record approximately 60 days prior to the expiration date and includes information about how to renew your license online.

The online renewal website is available 24/7 and payment can be made by Visa, MasterCard, or electronic check. If an individual holds a professional license and a controlled substance license, both licenses can be renewed online but there is a separate online renewal process for each license.

To avoid paying a late fee, you must renew your license online on or before the date it expires. You can still renew online if you are within the 60-day grace period after your license expires, but you will be required to pay the renewal fee plus a $20 late fee.

If your license is not renewed within 60 days after your expiration date, your license will lapse. When your license lapses, you can no longer practice your profession nor can you identify yourself as a licensed or registered individual. Practicing without a valid license is a felony under the Public Health Code and can result in legal proceedings as well as disciplinary actions. Regardless of whether or not you receive a renewal notice, it is your responsibility under Section 333.16201(1) of the Public Health Code to renew your license or registration prior to the expiration date.

If you experience problems with the online renewal process, please contact the Bureau of Health Professions at (517) 3350918 or email us at bhpinfo@michigan.gov. the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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The Native Ponies of Southeast Asia

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he carriage ponies of Lampang have more than a one-hundred-year history in northern Thailand. On a typical day, 200 ponies, hitched to decorative carriages, are on the city streets. Unlike many research projects, the evolution of the Thai/native pony project has been serendipitous, evolving in response to unexpected twists and turns.

Nineteen years ago, following a conference in Lampang, my Thai colleague Siraya Chunekamrai and I were requested to assist in response to a dramatic increase in cases of Big Head Disease (nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism) in the ponies. The ponies’ health and ability to work are essential to the economic viability of their owners. The pony diet is rice-based (high phosphorous/low calcium) and their available nutrition had not been changed, so the return visit to Lampang provided an opportunity to study the environment and determine contributing factors. That was just the beginning of a long-term relationship.

In the intervening years we have made progress on multiple fronts: quarterly

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educational seminars for owners on a variety of topics to help them improve the care of their ponies; identified a domestic source for a calcium supplement to address the nutritional imbalance; and conducted a seroprevalence study to identify equid diseases present in the local population which had the added benefit of developing a targeted vaccination program. With a grant from WSPA, now called World Animal Protection (WAP), we established a permanent presence with the opening of the Lampang Pony Clinic in 2004, followed by a sister, mobile equine practice in 2008 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to serve additional village ponies.

Our team’s interest was also piqued by the unique appearance noted in many of the northern Thai ponies, with color patterns and conformation similar to other ancient horse breeds. From 2003–2007 we collected hair and blood samples to study their DNA. The UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) carries the largest equine genetic database in the world. Our collaboration with the VGL confirmed the presence of unique genetic markers in the Thai ponies.

With little genetic divergence, their origin has now been tracked back more than 1,400 years to Mongolia. Building on that foundation, Dr. Chunekamrai and I met with the Thai Minister of Agriculture and her cabinet in May 2015, receiving a commitment from the Thai government to assist with a nationwide survey of village ponies. This will be similar to extension veterinarians/staff fanning out across the country and will immensely speed up the process of identifying ponies carrying the markers.

The initial DNA results were presented during the 7th International Colloquium on Working Equids held at the University of London in 2014. The race to identify such animals is critical as many owners of local ponies have been cross-breeding the ponies with domestic horses, thus diluting the unique genetic makeup. With international interest in supporting this effort, the breed registry is being built to track ponies possessing the markers, becoming the core of a breeding program to ensure preservation of these unique specimens of Thai heritage and history.

—Carla L. Carleton, DVM, MS, DACT, DACAW

t’s every veterinarian’s worse nightmare: A client files a complaint against you and you’re not sure what to do. As an MVMA member, if a client contacts MVMA with a complaint, our Ethics and Grievance Committee, chaired by Dr. Pat O’Handley does their best to resolve conflicts before a formal complaint is filed. If, however, you do end up with a complaint filed against you, Dr. Lynn Happel, Chair of the Michigan Board of Veterinary Medicine, has written the following to help you understand the process that occurs. . . .

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A complaint (allegation) can be filed against a veterinarian or veterinary technician through the Bureau of Professional Licensing, Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This is done by email to bplhelp@michigan.gov or calling the department at (517) 373-9196.

The complainant (person making the complaint) fills out an Allegation Form and it is submitted to the Allegation Section of LARA. The allegation section gathers the original complaint, the licensee’s (person against whom the complaint was made) medical records for the case, and current status of professional licenses as well as any civil infractions.

A packet of information from each complaint is sent to three different veterinarians on the allegation review committee. Each veterinarian reviews the case to determine if there is a reasonable basis to believe that a violation of the Public Health Code has been made. If the veterinarian determines there is reasonable basis to believe there has been a violation, the packet is returned “Authorized for Investigation.” If no violation of the Public Health Code is made, the packet is returned “No Investigation Needed.” If two of the three veterinarians authorize an investigation, the packet is sent to the Allegation Section for investigation.

If an investigation is authorized, an investigator is assigned and this person interviews the complainant, the licensee and any other witnesses that may be relevant. Once the investigation is complete, the case is sent to the Regulation Section of LARA. The case is assigned to an analyst within the Regulation Section for drafting of an Administrative

Complaint. An Administrative Complaint is a formal document that alleges conduct which constitutes a violation of the Public Health Code. If the case is complex, it may be transferred to the Attorney General’s office (AG). Once an Administrative Complaint is issued, the licensee has 30 days to respond to the Complaint through the analyst who

reject the recommended sanctions, or reject and make a counter offer. If the sanctions are rejected, further negotiations can take place or the matter can proceed to hearing. If the sanctions are rejected and a counter offer made, then the DSC states what sanctions they feel are appropriate for the violation and this is brought back to the licensee.

If the licensee and the department cannot reach an agreement, the case goes to hearing where an administrative law judge hears both sides of the story. The judge writes a paper called a Proposal For Decision (PFD) that summarizes case facts and offers his/her opinion if a violation of the Public Health Code occurred. The

What happens when a client files a complaint against you? drafted the Complaint. If the licensee does not respond in 30 days, the Complaint goes directly to the Disciplinary Subcommittee (DSC) for Sanctions. Sanctions are a penalty imposed for violation of the Code such as a fine, probation, continuing education, suspension, etc. If the licensee does respond within 30 days, resolution of the Complaint is attempted through a Consent Order and Stipulation (a settlement agreement between the department and licensee).

If no settlement is reached, the matter will be sent to the AG’s office and proceed to a hearing.

Once the Consent Order and Stipulation is written and agreed upon by the licensee, it goes to the Disciplinary Subcommittee (DSC) for approval. At that point the DSC can approve the sanctions,

PFD comes back to the DSC to be accepted (DSC agrees with the judge) or rejected (DSC does not agree with the judge). If the PFD is accepted, the DSC determines the sanction to be imposed on the licensee. If the PFD is rejected, the department will rewrite the PFD with the findings of the DSC. This revised PFD will then come before the DSC in the future for acceptance and sanctions for the violation found.

After sanctions have either been mutually agreed upon or determined by the DSC, the case is turned over to the Regulatory and Compliance Division to make sure the sanctions have been followed. This whole process, not including completing the sanctions, can take up to 1.5 years.

—Lynn Happel, DVM, Chair, Michigan Board of Veterinary Medicine

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MVMA PODCAST hosted by Dr. Jenna Corbett

Details About the Buy-In Process You’ve decided you want to buy a practice, and even found financing for the purchase—what about the other details of the buy-in process?

What steps do you need to take and what can you expect along the way? Hiring an attorney, practice valuation—even evaluating the practice equipment —is discussed in this podcast.

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T H E M I C H I G A N A N I M A L H E A LT H F O U N D AT I O N was created to provide assistance for educational and scientific studies designed to benefit the health and welfare of companion animals, livestock, and wildlife. For over 30 years, MAHF has made a difference in the lives of animals.

For more information, please contact the MAHF at (517) 347-4710

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www.MichAnimalHealthFoundation.com

TOP DOG PERFORMANCE REVIEW

Practice Owners, Are You Sending Mixed Messages to Your Team?

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s a veterinary consultant, much of my work is focused on the impact of the support team’s job performance, as it applies to the success of the practice. I develop a trusted rapport with team members and they then are receptive to my recommendations for improving their individual job performance. The relationship with team members opens the door to a lot of feedback. One of the reoccurring issues is the mixed signals sent by practice owners, associates and management.

At best, these “do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do” messages result in confusion but can go as far as creating chaos laced with disrespect. Your team will push much harder if it is clear you are pushing with them, not against them. There are those who lead by the RHIP (“rank has its privileges) rule . . . this—plain and simple—doesn’t work. If you show the staff you are serious and clear in relaying your expectations and if you are the first one to show the way, you will reap the benefits.

Before the next round of team reviews come due, dig deep and assess your true ability to lead by example. There are bound to be a few points that ring true for you in the following examples of common mixed signals. Take the time to honestly address these weak spots and your team bond will strengthen. Try going a step further by standing in front of your team during a meeting and saying something like “I read an article the other day that pointed out something that I think I do that might be driving you guys crazy. Just like I expect you to work on your weaknesses, I’m going to work on mine too.” If you are honest with yourself, you will see the nodding heads and the smiles of your team. Be brave and read on!

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Do you use social media as an outlet for complaining about your staff ?

Do you have a picture of your brand new boat on your desk or discuss your latest cruise vacation and then cry poor in regard to staff raises or benefits? (We know you may deserve these things and may not have put out an initial penny for them due to financing but consider the impression on staff ) Do you ask your staff to finish projects in a timely manner and then allow key elements of their project to sit on your desk in stack A or pile B awaiting your approval?

Do you hire friends, family or clients and then look the other way when problems develop in their job performance?

Would you enjoy working for you?

Then, review your performance . . .

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Do you give away more than a small amount of select free services/products and then announce to staff that there is no money for raises?

Do you expect staff to “do things right” but not allow uninterrupted time for training?

Have you set standards of care and then waive them for certain clients? (My personal guideline is: Have I just treated this person at least as well as I would have treated a total stranger? ) Do you expect staff to always deal with your clients in a professional manner in order to maintain their loyalty? Do you do the same when communicating with your staff ?

Do you expect the staff to limit the personal issues they bring into the work place and then air your own?

Are you asking the staff to be efficient with scheduling and boost the business as much as possible and then give them a

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hard time when they cross your line into being overbooked? (I suggest blocking off appointment times that can be filled, but only with the permission of the attending doctor . . . that way, the doctor can “overbook” themselves.)

Do you expect punctuality out of the staff and come in late yourself? (Yes, I understand you work a lot of hours they don’t see, but still . . .)

Do you gripe about practice gossip and petty chit-chat and then talk about staff members or clients behind their backs?

Do you make your expectations clear to the staff or do you assume they know how you want things done and in what time frame?

Do you expect a high level of performance from your staff and then fail to reward them when they achieve it? Do you reward them monetarily, verbally?

Do you correct your staff privately and compliment them in front of others, or visa versa?

Your team influences your practice in more ways than you have the time to review. Set the tone, provide the road map. Become your own best team member and watch the positive outcome. You’ve been brave and read this far now it’s time to review your job performance. How’d you do?

The benefits of change are limitless and they are just waiting for you to tap into them. Make the improvements then lead by example and reap the benefits. As a sidebar, your practice will be a happier and a friendlier place to be. Isn’t that just a really nice benefit?

Janet Talbot is the President of Animalia Resources, Inc., a Michigan-grown veterinary consulting company providing business solutions exclusively to Michigan veterinarians since 2008. With 30 years’ experience in all aspects of a veterinary practice, Janet brings a unique hands-on knowledge base that is unprecedented. You can reach Janet at (989) 3665646 office, (313) 516-8969 cell, jmtalbot@animaliare. com, or visit www.animaliare.com.

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classified ads & relief vets classified ads veterinarians wanted Experienced PT veterinarian wanted for small-animal clinic located in Howell. Interest/competence in surgery is essential, as well as good communication skills with clients and staff. Please send résumé to jlfrieddvm@aol.com.

Full- or part-time associate veterinarian needed for a multilocation, progressive, client/patient-centered practice in southeast MI. Seeking a confident, energetic veterinarian with good surgical, diagnostic, and people skills. Send résumé and references to dan.monforton@gmail.com.

Full-time veterinarian needed in southwest MI. Mostly small-animal with some horses and food animal; casual work environment with excellent support staff. We are busy enough to allow doctors to develop individual professional interests, but also willing to provide mentoring for newer doctors. Emergency calls and weekend hours shared between 4 veterinarians. Competitive compensation, paid vacation, great health insurance, and generous allowance for CE and association memberships. Call us at 269/673-6981, or email alleganvetclinic@gmail.com.

Veterinarian needed for growing emergency practice.

Excellent opportunity at a very busy AAHA-accredited emergency hospital located in Burton, MI. We are looking for a veterinarian to work on Saturday and Sunday. This could be a great way to supplement your income! We have a great staff and 3 doctors with outstanding medical knowledge. Our staff is knowledgeable and friendly. You can either get paid hourly or production-based. Our hospital has an isolation ward, Snyder unit, ultrasound, a doctors’ office and separate sleeping quarters, large surgery room, digital x-ray, and much more. Come and join our family and grow with us. Fax your résumé to 330/217-1201, or email to twogrs4@yahoo.com Attn: Dr. Grguric. Feel free to email any questions or concerns.

Opening for a full-time associate veterinarian in White Cloud, MI. We are an established, growing practice in a 6,000SF facility, 45 minutes north of Grand Rapids, surrounded by the Manistee National Forest. Applicants must possess high quality medical, surgical, and communication skills.

Salary will be commensurate with experience. Come grow with us! Email samciatto@yahoo.com.

Full/part-time associate veterinarian wanted. Clarke Animal Hospital and its satellite clinic Glenpark Animal Hospital are progressive small-animal practices located in west MI. We are committed to providing quality care in a compassionate manner. We are looking for someone with the ability to make decisions, communicate clearly and effectively with fellow team members, and who is committed to practicing the highest standard of medicine. We are just minutes away from beautiful Lake Michigan, with many state parks offering hiking, boating, fishing, cross country skiing, and much more. We are 40 minutes from Grand Rapids and all the city life has to offer. We strive to make our work environment fun, flexible, and family-oriented by offering great hours and benefits including 401(k), CE, vacation,

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holiday/sick pay, licensing, health/life/disability/liability insurance, and more. For more information contact Rebecca Jackson, Hospital Manager, at 231/798-1957 or email us at rjackson@nvanet.com.

Busy, well-established small-animal practice in Marquette, MI seeking full-time veterinarian who is hardworking, dedicated, and experienced and wants to embrace everything the beautiful Upper Peninsula offers. Live where you want to vacation. Great mentoring opportunity. Integrated hospital with in-house lab, digital radiography, dental rad, mentoring, and ultrasound. Competitive salary/benefits.

Marquette has been recognized as one of the most desirable places to live in the USA. Come be part of what Lake Superior, the culture, and the wonderful people have to offer. A regional human hospital and a university are also located in Marquette which brings a great deal of diversity and learning to the population. Graduate veterinarian with active DEA license. Contact 906/249-5667 or drtim@drtims. com for more information.

We are looking for a part-time veterinarian for our AAHAaccredited 2-doctor small-animal and exotic hospital located in Brooklyn, MI. We pride ourselves in small-town feel with big-city quality of care. We are a full-service practice that provides many services such as wellness examinations, immunizations, surgery, radiology (digital dental), laser surgical equipment, and an in-house laboratory. Our vision is to find a part-time associate who will support our philosophy and become a part of our wonderful practice.

Excellent opportunities exist for a compassionate individual to develop long-term professional relationships with an excellent team and clientele. The successful candidate has great people skills, is focused on quality care, and excels at assuring client satisfaction. You can find us on the web at ColumbiaAnimalClinic.com. Please email your résumé to manager@columbiaanimalclinic.com or fax y 517/592-4571.

DePorre Veterinary Hospital in Bloomfield Hills is seeking a patient-focused, experienced, full-time associate veterinarian. Our AAHA-accredited, multi-doctor team practices high-quality medicine to well-educated clients in a beautiful, well-equipped facility that is IDEXX/Cornerstone integrated.

Email résumé to sgerkey@deporrevet.com.

We are a small-animal, full-service, high-paced clinic with lots of potential to grow. We are looking to find the right person to help lead our clinic in the right direction.

Competitive wages and bonuses. Please email résumé to sandlakeveterinaryservices@yahoo.com.

Full- or part-time veterinarian needed for after-hours/ weekend urgent care. Well-equipped facility with experienced support staff. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Email animalurgentcare2013@gmail.com.

Lansing-area mobile veterinary clinic looking for part-time veterinarian to help with our vaccine clinics on Sundays, 2–6 times per month. No emergencies, no boarding, no other weekend responsibilities! Email résumé to lori@ mobilevetclinics.com.

ER/critical care veterinarian—Madison Heights, MI. Veterinary Emergency Service: Full- or part-time veterinarian to join a critical care team that has been delivering quality patient care for over 40 years. We will consider both experienced practitioners and individuals new to ER medicine. These are both high-compensation positions for doctors that develop solid case management skills and work well in a medical team. In the initial period we will provide training, working directly with current staff doctors, thus insuring your personal success. The critical care segment of veterinary medicine allows you to develop high skills with outstanding compensation. For more information contact 248/266-1942 or rl@laniergroup.com.

Full-time associate position for one of our 5 Michigan locations. Bay City has affordable housing, festivals, many cultural events, and easy access to outdoor recreation including the Great Lakes. We offer digital radiography, ultrasound, in-house laboratory, and a new state-of-the-art facility. No after-hour emergencies. Please email résumé to Dr. Don Sheets at dsheetsdvm@aol.com, VetMedHospital.com.

Grow with us in one of our well-managed small-animal hospitals in southeastern MI. We are a small group of high-end practices (7 locations) devoted to practicing the highest quality of medicine. Staff are fully utilized, so you will focus on diagnosing, prescribing medications, and surgery only. Full- and part-time openings available with management opportunities in the metro Detroit area including our Banfield Pet Hospital location in Roseville.

Contact Jeff Rothstein, DVM, MBA, at 734/645-0267, email jknis@sbcglobal.net, or fax 734/372-6318.

Seeking a full-time veterinarian in a busy, 3-doctor smallanimal practice in Cadillac, MI. (NW lower MI) Long-term associate is leaving due to health issues. You would be working in a friendly environment with long-term employees.

Meyer Veterinary Clinic is a full-service facility including ultrasound and digital x-ray. Experience is preferred, however new graduates will be considered. Potential ownership is an option. Send résumé to Allen D. Meyer, DVM, at ameyervet@ gmail.com or call 231/775-4104.

VIP Petcare is the premier provider of pet vaccine and non-emergency veterinary clinics. We are expanding our service areas throughout New York, and are looking to add engaging veterinarians like you! Contact Alaine Kalder at alaine@vippetcare.com or 707/620-2266.

Part-time veterinarian wanted for growing small-animal practice in Livingston County. Excellent support staff, ½-hour appointment times ensure plenty of quality time with clients and pets. Surgical interest a plus. Competitive hourly pay and flexible scheduling. Contact Maxcl44@yahoo.com or 248/939-0002.

Associate veterinarian needed for a growing one-doctor clinic, in Newport, MI (south of Detroit). We are a high-quality, patient/client-focused practice with excellent licensed support staff and facility. Contact Dennis at Ark Animal Clinic, 734/770-1120 and/or e-mail your résumé to dgpogarch@ aol.com; website: ArkAnimalVet.com.

Sand Lake Veterinary Services, 20 minutes north of Grand Rapids, is looking for a full-time associate veterinarian.

F/T associate for a progressive well-equipped practice in a resort town on Lake Michigan. Looking for a confident,

energetic veterinarian who is interested in practicing top notch medicine and is looking for a long-term position and possible buy-in. Good surgical, diagnostic, and people skills required. Ultrasound, endoscopy, computerized; bbytwerk2011@gmail.com.

Have you always wanted to practice in an exclusively feline clinic? We are looking for a part-time associate veterinarian, however may consider full-time and potential buyer for the perfect candidate. We are located in Grosse Pointe Woods, have a great support team, practice high-quality medicine, great clientele, and no after-hour emergencies. If you are enthusiastic about working exclusively with cats, send résumé to kittysdoctor@comcast.net.

Why work with us? Well, if you are a veterinarian dedicated to promotion of the human-animal bond, enjoy helping clients with their animals, and a hard worker, this is your place!

Located in the Land of Hiawatha, Sault Animal Hospital is the premier vet hospital in the eastern UP. Come and enjoy everything the Sault has to offer: magnificent scenery, ample room for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, etc. Gorgeous summer days and honest winter nights. Yes, we do get snow, but with snow comes snowmobiling, crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing, sledding Minneapolis hill, and cozy nights by the fire. Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest cities in North America. The region has been populated since 1668. Did I mention that The Soo is home to two wineries and a craft brewery? Also, Yooper’s are well known to be pleasant and appreciative people, why live anywhere else?

Now for the details: Sault Animal Hospital is looking for a full-time associate to join our staff of 3 veterinarians. We are a full-service hospital with all the toys: digital x-ray, in-house lab, (2) ultrasound, etc. Mixed animal with 20% equine and some other large animals (cattle, sheep, llamas). Large animal haul-in facility. We also take care of exotic pets and are a licensed wildlife rehab center. In short, you won’t be bored. Position is full-time with a generous benefit package and pro/sal. Shared emergencies. (Hey, its medicine! At least the clients are very grateful!) New grads are welcomed to apply—among the 3 vets we have more than 50 years of experience; big on mentorship. Email résumé and info to jlahuis@saultanimalhospital.com, SaultAnimalHospital. com, Facebook.com/SaultAnimalHospital.

Emergency vet needed for small-animal veterinary emergency and referral hospital in Kalamazoo, MI. Full-, part-time, or relief positions available. Progressive, modern, well-equipped hospital with outstanding support staff. Equipment includes ultrasound, digital x-ray, CT scan, etc. Board certified surgeon on staff. Résumé: Ronald Moiles, DVM, 6039 S. Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI 49002; tel 269/760-4056; fax 269/323-363; email ronaldmoilesdvm@gmail.com.

Seeking a full-time, skilled, and compassionate associate veterinarian to join our health care team at Michigan Ave Animal Hospital, Ypsilanti, MI. Leadership, interpersonal and communication skills, excellent customer service, and general practice capabilities are required. Looking for a self-starter who is dependable, energetic, and willing to learn, teach, and excel. Competitive salary and benefits.

Send résumé to Dr. Ajaib Dhaliwal at mianimalhospital@ gmail.com.

Full-time small-animal veterinarian needed for our growing practice in East Lansing, MI. We have great clients and an enthusiastic, hardworking staff. We are looking for someone with experience as well as good surgical and dental skills.

Please email résumé and references to bmortimerdvm@ comcast.net.

FT SA position: Westland Veterinary is a progressive clinic located in Westland, MI. We support quality medicine, excellent facilities, and equipment. CE, paid vacation,

health insurance, and 401(k) provided. Competitive salary and bonuses. Email Dr. Dhillon at dhillondvm@gmail.com.

PT veterinarian, with potential for full-time, needed for growing veterinary practice on eastern Wisconsin-Michigan border in Iron River, MI. Currently exclusively SA, but opportunity exists to add LA and exotics. No after-hour emergencies. We are a new practice that aims to deliver the highest degree of patient care and customer service. In addition to providing services to our community, we provide all care for animals at the local humane society. We are equipped with a surgical suite, digital radiography, in-house lab analyzers, and ultrasound. If you are interested in growing with our team, please contact Kelly at 4seasonsanimalhospital@gmail. com. Experience is preferred, but all levels are encouraged to apply.

Associate veterinarian wanted to join our 7-doctor team.

The Animal Emergency Hospital is a privately owned, fullyequipped, and progressive critical care facility in Grand Rapids. You will have a reasonable work schedule, generous benefit program, and a nationally competitive salary. For further details, please contact Dr. Stephen Comer, 3260 Plainfield NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. Work: 616/361-3962, or email gobigred@westmichiganaeh.com.

Parkview Animal Hospital is seeking an associate. We are a progressive 8-doctor small-animal practice located north of Detroit in Warren, MI. We offer a competitive salary and benefits with no Sundays or after-hour emergencies. We have a comfortable, modern building with ultrasound, digital radiography, digital dental radiography, surgical lasers, and a well-equipped in-house lab. Our team is friendly, motivated and wants to support you. Our practice is a past winner of the Detroit Free Press Best Veterinary Practice Award. For more information about our practice, please contact Dr. Stephen Albrecht by email at sjadvm@hotmail. com, or visit our website at ParkviewAnimalHospital.com.

Seeking a full- or part-time veterinarian to join our compassionate, client- and pet-oriented growing practice in Freeland (near Midland) who enjoys practicing high-quality medicine.

No emergency duty and no weekends—our weekends are free! If you have a family or just want more time to spend on your hobbies, this is the practice for you. Newer facility and new addition being planned for September 2016 with 7 exam rooms and 2 surgery suites. We pride ourselves on having an extremely clean clinic with super friendly staff, including professional technicians. New grads welcome.

Send résumé to Dr. Jacobs, Countryside Animal Health Center at snoshire@centurytel.net, Countryside-Animal.com.

Combine high-quality medicine, a stimulating career, and great quality of life! Banfield currently has full/part-time associate veterinarian openings in the metro Detroit area (Brighton, Chesterfield, Rochester Hills East, and Troy).

Practice human-quality medicine with the latest technology

and evidence-based medicine. Work with a caring, welltrained team. Grow your career in the direction that’s right for you with our medical allowance program and diverse career paths. Enhance your quality of life with our part-time or full-time schedules, competitive compensation, and great benefits package including 5 weeks paid time off, health insurance, medical allowance, 401(k), and more. Ask about our sign-on bonus in select locations. Visit Banfield. com/careers to apply or contact heidi.burkley@banfield. net to learn more!

Allegan Animal Clinic is seeking an associate veterinarian.

We are a progressive, modern, well-equipped clinic of mixed animals looking for someone who has good surgical as well as diagnostic skills. This position will start out as a 8-to-6 p.m., and then become a 4 p.m.-to-midnight, position for scheduled appointments and emergencies. Emergency after-hour duties rotated between 3 doctors. Please send résumés to vdbanimalclinic@gmail.com.

Veterinarian needed half-time starting in April. Contact Scott Liggett, DVM at 810/659-1151 (daytime), or 810/407-0093 (evenings/weekends).

Part-time, experienced veterinarian is needed to join a respected 70% canine/30% feline animal hospital in Kalamazoo County, MI. This hospital is well equipped with digital dental x-ray, orthopedic surgical instruments, cold laser, in-house lab, and more. Our veterinarians are supported by a trained staff, including LVTs, who not only work well with the doctors and each other but also provide clients unprecedented customer service. Our ideal candidate will possess solid soft-tissue surgical skills (orthopedic talents a plus) and practice progressive general medicine.

Compensation/benefit package includes competitive salary plus production, paid AVMA dues and AVMA Professional Liability Insurance, paid Michigan veterinarian license, Michigan controlled substance license, and DEA license fees, vacation, annual continuing education allowance, paid VIN membership dues, 401(k) and more. Come experience genuine professionalism in a friendly atmosphere while working with an exceptional team through collaboration. Interested applicants should contact Cheryl Sonick at 203/209-5534 or send your résumé to csonick@optonline.net. All inquiries will be treated confidentially and professionally.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board is seeking applicants for part-time veterinarian positions to work at horse racing tracks located in the Detroit area for 2016. Contact Al Ernst, Horse Racing Section Manager, at 313/456-4130 or horseracing@michigan.gov.

Looking for a part-time veterinarian for the Bloomfield area.

Small-animal hospital with updated equipment including in-house CBC, chemistry, high definition digital radiology, ultrasound, and full surgical suite with premium anesthetic monitoring equipment. The hospital is all-in-one boarding,

the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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grooming, and animal hospital. You will have the opportunity to work with many rescue organizations on a daily basis as well as long-time affluent clients. We will expect a high level of commitment on the days working and attention to records for your electronic medical record system that we use. Call 248/8511007 if interested.

Small-animal AAHA-accredited hospital in Genesee County seeking dependable, energetic, full-time veterinarian to join our team. Our well-established, newly remodeled hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies including digital radiography, in-house laboratories, ultrasonic dental equipment, endoscopy, and many more. Excellent benefits and competitive salary; the position is open immediately.

Please submit résumé to bsnovi@gmail.com. veterinary technicians wanted Berrien Veterinary Services looking to hire full-time LVT and also a receptionist for our 3-doctor, mixed-animal practice.

Digital x-ray, ultrasound, IDEXX analyzers, Cornerstone software. Progressive country practice, easy-going doctors, great benefits (Simple IRA, Health Insurance, CE, uniform allowance). Located in Baroda, MI near Lake Michigan. Email Dr. Jolene Birney at berrienvet@gmail.com or 269/422-1176.

Clinton Trail Animal Hospital is looking to hire a part- or full-time licensed veterinary technician for our busy, 2-doctor, small-animal practice. Applicants must be energetic and team-oriented. Primary responsibilities include anesthesia and surgery prep, dental prophylaxis, client education, and performing diagnostics. We have recently added a new doctor and are continually expanding our practice.

The hospital is equipped with in-house Idexx laboratory, isoflurane, ultrasound, automatic x-ray processor, and new dental equipment. We offer a competitive compensation package with paid vacation and holidays, Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance, paid license and dues, uniform allowance, continuing education and 401(k). New graduates are welcome to apply—all level of expertise will be considered. Contact Evelyn at officemgr.1213@ctah.comcastbiz. net or 517/782-5162.

Creekside Animal Hospital seeking PT or FT LVT(s) to join growing small-animal practice in Macomb, MI. Looking for easy going multi-tasker and team player. Experience preferred. Benefit packages available. Please email résumés to Creeksideah@sbcglobal.net or fax 586/630-3030.

AAHA multi-doctor practice seeking an experienced full- or part-time LVT. This position requires exceptional customer service skills with demonstrated animal handling and technical abilities. Seeking a friendly, caring, and motivated individual. Applicants must enjoy a fast-paced environment where teamwork is key and service comes with a smile! Our hospital has advanced technology including digital radiographs, therapeutic laser, and ultrasound. Some evening hours and Saturdays are required. Full-time employees are eligible for generous benefits. Send résumés to kressler@ deporrevet.com, DePorre Veterinary Hospital, 4066 W. Maple Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301; tel 248/646-1669.

We are a progressive 3-hospital practice located in Macomb County that is currently seeking LVTs, veterinary assistants, and administrative support staff. Offering high-quality, compassionate care is our main priority and we strive to provide our clients and patients with complete and individual care! Interested applicants can submit a résumé and cover letter to Dana Meske at dmeske.parkway@gmail. com or 586/416-8800.

The Switzer Veterinary Clinic is looking for another FT/PT LVT (new graduates encouraged) to join our busy mixed animal practice in northern MI. We love to mentor! Alpena is a great place to live offering plenty of opportunities for

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the michigan veterinarian • winter 2015

sailing, fishing, trail running, mountain biking, even a touch of culture and shopping. Come live where others vacation. Interested? Contact Dr. Ryan Knight at drrknight@ switzerveterinaryclinic.com or 989/356-4880.

Relocation reimbursement available! Veterinary technicians/ assistants needed to work in AAHA-certified emergency hospital located in Burton. Animal Emergency Hospital is an outstanding emergency hospital with excellent staff and doctors that has been serving the area for over 20 years. The employment opportunities are for all shifts. Outstanding pay and benefits. We also offer shift differential pay! If you need to relocate we have relocation reimbursement available. We have digital x-ray, ultrasound, Snyder oxygen cages, isolation ward, and much more. Emergency medicine offers great opportunities for technicians to use their skills and broaden their knowledge. It is an extremely rewarding experience. Please join our family at AEH and either email your résumé to mkb5@tds.net or fax it to 810/238-8027, Attn: Melissa Boyd. Feel free to call 810/338-6606 and ask for Melissa or LeeAnn if you have questions.

Northwood Animal Hospital is seeking a part- or full-time LVT to join our 2-doctor small-animal practice. We are a progressive, AAHA-accredited facility located in Traverse City. At Northwood we believe in fully utilizing our licensed technician’s skills. Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to anesthesia, surgical prep, sample collection, dental prophylaxis, client education, and performing diagnostics. The hospital is equipped with AVImark practice management software, Idexx in-house laboratory, full pharmacy, digital full body and dental x-ray. We offer a competitive compensation package with paid vacation and holidays, dental, vision and health insurance, uniforms, continuing education, and retirement. All levels of expertise will be considered. Contact Clint at clint@northwoodpet.com or 231/276-6361. All inquiries kept confidential.

Veterinary Rehabilitation Technician/Assistant wanted.

Family Friends Veterinary Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI is a progressive general medicine practice with a 900SF dedicated rehabilitation space looking for a certified canine rehabilitation assistant/practitioner. CCRA or CCRP certification required. The successful candidate must possess strong written and verbal communication skills, excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, be detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to work both as part of a team and independently while focusing on exemplary customer service. Duties include performing rehabilitation therapies including but not limited to therapeutic laser, underwater treadmill/hydrotherapy, and therapeutic and conditioning exercises, answering phone, scheduling appointments, accurate medical record-keeping including taking history and documenting treatments, client education, referring doctor/surgeon correspondence, equipment maintenance, assisting rehabilitation supervisor and rehabilitation doctor.

This position requires the ability to assist in lifting large disabled dogs, up to 200 lbs., the ability to get up and down off the floor, and some weekend and evening hours possible. Contact 616/575-6520 for more information.

Stony Creek Veterinary Hospital in Washington, MI is looking to hire a full-time LVT for our 3-doctor small-animal practice.

We are a highly personable, family-oriented hospital uniquely located in a historic brick dairy barn in Macomb County.

We are seeking a compassionate, energetic, hardworking individual to join our team. Call Dr. Cobi McLeod 586/6771300 or fax 586/677-8179.

The Allegan Veterinary Clinic is looking for a SA relief doctor for various Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during the month of December. If interested please contact Daniel Martin at 269/673-6981.

office staff wanted We are looking for a Practice Manager to start training with our current manager as soon as possible. Applicants without veterinary practice management experience will not be considered at this time. We are a busy 60-doctor practice with approximately 20-plus support and technical staff.

We strive to provide the highest quality veterinary care as well as maintain a positive work culture. We are seeking a Practice Manager who is comfortable with leading but also maintains a team-oriented attitude. CVPM is highly encouraged. Our practice is focused on the care of canines and felines. Areas of responsibility include but are not limited to: Staff Management and Human Resources: determine staffing needs, assist with staffing issues, participate in the development and execution of training plans, and facilitation of communication among staff. Conduct employee performance reviews, mediate internal disputes, discipline/ discharge employees, review and update manuals and materials as needed. In addition, manage licensures and certifications. Track worked hours and paid time off. Client and Professional Relations: identification and resolution of client concerns, and collection and analyzation of client feedback obtained through in-house and online surveys.

Positively represent the hospital and actively participate in building relationships with the local professional community and general public. Develop and implement marketing strategies including but not limited to social media, print media, web development, community events, and CE programs. This will involve event planning and attendance at night and weekend events. Operations: Oversee the adherence to company procedures and policies, optimize proficiency and productivity, execute marketing initiatives, troubleshoot scheduling conflicts, understand and ensure compliance with regulatory agencies (MIOSHA, DEA, etc.), conduct OSHA training, ensure compliance with legal and ethical guidelines surrounding confidentiality of staff, clients, and patients. Develop and execute initiatives to drive and increase business growth. Financial: Manage accounts receivable and delinquent accounts. Oversee invoicing, coding, charge capture and entry to ensure accurate billing. Monitor and update fee schedules as needed. Qualifications included a bachelor’s degree and CVPM preferred, experience with HR, employee counseling, coaching and mentoring, extensive customer service knowledge, management and analysis, knowledgeable in effective marketing techniques and strategy, public speaking with the ability to influence a diverse range of audiences and groups, proven ability to make decisions, delegate responsibility and achieve results. Please send résumé to Dr. Margaret Lane at dvmmcl@gmail.com. practices & equipment for sale Detroit SA practice grossing over $900K. Great cash flow.

Free-standing building is beautiful with great visibility.

Practice and real estate $1.1M. Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@ tpsgsales.com.

Upper Lower Peninsula: Small-animal practice gross over $450K and has very high net revenue. Offered at $625K for practice and real estate. Great location! Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@tpsgsales.com.

Northwest Detroit suburbs, small-animal practice for sale grossing $600K. Beautiful facility, nicely equipped and great curb appeal. Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@tpsgsales.com.

NE Traverse City area, small-animal practice grossing $600K for sale. Hospital is well-equipped. Practice and real estate $775K. Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt

Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@tpsgsales.com.

When buying or selling a veterinary practice, rely on the expertise of the Total Practice Solutions Group. See our display ad this issue. Even if you plan to sell your practice yourself, contact Dr. Kurt Liljeberg for a free consultation. We would be happy to help. 800/380-6872 or kurt@tpsgsales.com.

Ohmeda Isotec 3 (converted) Isoflurane vaporizer. Never used. Make an offer. 231/843-3213 or countryvet@cvcmi.com.

Bay County, MI—Great investment! 2,500SF SA practice on ±0.33 acres, two exam rooms (MI1). Western Upper Peninsula—Growing practice, home, ±40 acres! 1,500SF mixed facility, 1,900SF home, two exam rooms (MI2). Elmira, NY—Great business opportunity! 3,400SF SA w/RE, two exam rooms (NY8). PS Broker, Inc. 800/636-4740, PSBroker.com, info@psbroker.com.

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

Cari Bedore, DVM, 810/965-8350. MSU 99. SA relief and/ or part-time 1 hour from Flint. Enjoy working in a positive team atmosphere doing medicine and surgery.

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.

Lisa Benisek, DVM, 517/887-0255. MSU 88. 15 years’ relief work experience. Part-time or relief, Lansing area, smallanimal. lisabenisekdvm@comcast.net.

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

Tama Cathers, DVM, 269/203-6800. NCSU 96. SA relief and part-time. SW Michigan, w/in approximately 1 hour of Kalamazoo. Calm, friendly, thorough, team player.

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.

Daniel Cole, DVM, 551/486-0923. MSU 12. Small-animal general medicine/emergency. Relief and part-time.

Internship trained. Competent and comfortable with soft-tissue surgery and general medicine. Excellent records and client communication. Within 1½ hours of Brighton, but willing to travel further for certain situations. danthecole@gmail.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.

Jamie Craig, DVM, 248/330-8793. MSU 12. SA relief/PT in Oakland Co., surrounding areas. Skilled general practitioner, adaptable, enjoy fast-paced environments, maintains CE, excellent client services, record keeping. jamie.Craig12@ gmail.com.

Jennifer M. Dec, DVM, 248/224-1990. MSU 04. Smallanimal general practice and emergency relief. Surgery, ultrasound, and excellent communication skills, drrockstarbc@gmail.com.

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.

Jill Duncan, DVM, 517/719-0780. MSU 09. SA and exotic relief in Lansing, Saginaw, and SE Michigan. High competency in soft-tissue surgery, ultrasound, and medicine. Friendly, detail-oriented, excellent client communication. References available. Jillianne11@yahoo.com.

Emery Engers, DVM, 734/717-2608. SA relief or PT in Oakland County/SE Michigan, including Saturday and Sunday.

Strong medical and surgical skills, dentistry. Friendly and compassionate, high-quality care. engersem@gmail.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.

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.

Sharon Rose Henn, DVM, 616/723-4314. MSU 01. SA, Grand Rapids and western MI; may travel. 10+ years’ experience.

Friendly, helpful, excellent client education, adaptable.

Soft tissue surgery, dentistry. hennshar@hotmail.com.

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.

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.

Charlotte Kim, DVM, 517/643-4069. MSU 08. SA relief work in SE Michigan. Soft tissue surgery and medicine. Friendly and dependable. kimcharl0824@gmail.com Joan Koelzer, DVM, 616/437-6415. MSU 85. SA medicine and surgery, single-day relief, Grand Rapids/west MI. Skilled in difficult spay and neuters. jekoelzer@yahoo.com.

Delta Leeper, DVM, 248/396-7525. MSU 03. Part-time or relief, SE Michigan. Cats and dogs only; medicine, dentistry, routine surgeries. Internship trained, good communicator, team player. catdrdelta@hotmail.com.

Selena Lucas, DVM, 734/330-5048. KSU 90. Flexible and friendly, excellent client communication skills. Proficient in surgery, medicine, and dentistry. Available in SE Michigan. slucasdvm@gmail.com.

Richard M. Mieczkowski, DVM, 734/735-2279. MSU 71.

Relief, experience, competent, dependable, small-animal, references, north Oakland County and vicinity. rmackj@ aol.com.

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.

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.

Amy Peck, DVM, 231/557-4423. MSU 97. Available for relief in west MI/Grand Rapids/Lakeshore area. SA general medicine. Excellent communication skills, experienced and reliable. apeckdvm@gmail.com Bob Schleiffarth, DVM, 269/921-0570. SA relief. Over 30 years’ ownership experience. Coverage for western MI, based in Onekama. Kawnipi2@att.net.

Teri Sexton, DVM, 517/231-1256 cell; 517/371-2930 home.

MSU 92. SA/PT work w/in 1 hour of Lansing. Can make your clients and staff feel at ease. Strengths: dermatology, soft tissue surgery. TeriLSexton@earthlink.net.

Jim Sharp, DVM, 810/533-3598. MSU 71. SA relief, SE Michigan. Former practice owner. Proficient in sophisticated dentistry and medicine. Excellent communicator. vetseanarian@comcast.net.

Alan Sibinic, DVM, 734/922-3713, 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, 616/771-6030. 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.

Nicholas Urbanek, DVM, 412/606-1716. Glasgow 09. SA/ emergency relief and part-time work within 2 hours of Lansing. Internship trained, great client communication and records, compassionate. nup321@aol.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. 22 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. drzablotny@gmail.com.

the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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michigan veterinary conference

mvma animal welfare conference

western michigan vma

▸ January 29–31, 2016 Lansing Center & Radisson Hotel, Lansing, MI

▸ November 21, 2016 @ 8 am–5 pm MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI

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

mvma/msucvm canine dentistry lecture/wet lab

mvma great lakes veterinary conference

▸ Saturday, December 5, 2015 @ 8:30 am–4:30 pm MSU Veterinary Medical Center

▸ July 17–19, 2016 Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI

Contact MVMA at (517) 347-4710 or register online at www. michvma.org

Tentative topics & speakers: • Toxicology (Dr. tina Wisner) • Dentistry (Dr. James Moore) • Practice Management (speaker TBD)

mvma equine practice programs ▸ Body Language (Karlene Belyea, MBA) February 10, 2016 ▸ Respiratory (Dr. Jan Hargraves) March 9, 2016

mvma small animal seminars ▸ Emergency & Critical Care (Dr. Melissa Holahan) March 9, 2016 ▸ Genetics (Dr. Danika Bannasch) October 5, 2016 ▸ Dental (Dr. Brook Niemiec) November 2, 2016 ▸ Feline Medicine (Dr. William Folger) December 7, 2016 ▸ Renal (Dr. Mark J. Acierno) March 8, 2017 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.

mvma committees ▸ Animal Welfare (Dr. Marcie Barber, Chair) February 11, 2016 @ 10:00 am April 21, 2016 @ 10:00 am June 16, 2016 @ 10:00 am September 29, 2016 @ 10:00 am

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

semvma veterinary ce program ▸ Radiology (Dr. Sophie Dennison-Gibby) February 24, 2016 ▸ Endocrinology (Dr. Ann Della’Maggiorre) March 23, 2016 Visit the SEMVMA website at www.semvma.com for additional details.

▸ Legislative Advisory (Dr. Cathy Anderson, Chair) March 16, 2016 @ 10:00 am June 8, 2016 @ 1:30 pm September 28, 2016 @ 1:30 pm November 9, 2016 @ 1:30 pm Meetings held in the MVMA office unless noted.

mvma board of directors ▸ March 2, 2016 University Club, Lansing ▸ July 19, 2016 Grand HOtel, Mackinac Island ▸ September 14, 2016 University Club, Lansing

people, pets & vets ▸ Saturday, November 5, 2016 @ 11 am–3 pm Macomb Community College

▸ December 14, 2016 University Club, Lansing

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 • winter 2015

the michigan ve terinarian • winter 2015

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michigan veterinary medical association

Professional excellence.

Compassionate care.

join mvma on our social media sites!

You’ve seen us on Facebook with our 3,000+ fans, Twitter with our 2,200+ followers and YouTube with more than 10,000+ views. But have you seen us on Pinterest? You can check us out at http://pinterest.com/michvma/. important phone numbers MI Board of Veterinary Medicine . . .(517) 335-0918 MI Board of Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . .(517) 373-1737 DEA—Detroit office . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(313) 234-4000 DEA—toll-free. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 230-6844 MDARD State Veterinarian . . . . . . . .(800) 292-3939 MI Dept. of Community Health . . . . .(517) 335-8165 State of MI Health Certificates . . . . .(517) 284-5767 USDA, APHIS, VS–Accreditation . . .(517) 337-4700

2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864-3986

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