INSIDE NAVC 2017 - Issue 3

ISSUE THREE

INSIDE TUESDAY | 2.7

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE NAVC CONFERENCE 2017

SMALL TOWN, BIG HEART:

2017 NAVC President Gail Gibson, VMD At the end of the NAVC Conference 2017, Dr. Melinda Merck will pass the torch to Dr. Gail Gibson – a companion animal veterinarian from rural Maine who radiates warmth and passion. Bringing decades of experience in the veterinary profession and in leadership positions, Gibson hopes to be an approachable, collaborative President who creates even more personal connections within the veterinary healthcare team.

Dr. Gibson graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1977 with a bachelor of science degree in pre-veterinary medicine and animal science. She started work on her master of science degree only to be accepted the following year at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. After four years of study she graduated in 1982, when she received her VMD. She currently practices at the Animal Medical Clinic, Inc. in Skowhegan, Maine. She came to Skowhegan years ago with her husband, Jack, a native of the area. After spending a year working on large animals, she joined her husband at the clinic and has been there ever since.

Dr. Gibson has been active in the Maine Veterinary Medical Association and has served as Chairman of the State Board of Veterinary Medicine. She’s very involved in her community, having been President of the local Rotary club as well as serving on the New England Board of the American Red Cross. Dr. Gibson’s interests include ophthalmology and dermatology.

Congratulations on being our incoming President of the NAVC Board of Directors! What strengths and hopes do you bring to the table?

Thank you! I’m really looking forward to the wonderful collaboration within our industry for which the NAVC is known. I’m a people person, so I’m anxious to make personal connections with the many organizations, companies, and individuals that we serve.

What’s the most exciting thing about being in the position of leading the NAVC at this time in our history?

Exciting is exactly how it feels! I’m a veterinarian from a rural area who has had the great fortune to not only work with an amazing Board of Directors and staff, but also to move into a leadership position. That’s a lot to take in for a small-town veterinarian from Maine! I really am humbled by the opportunity.

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IGNITE!.................................. p. 2 Hands-on Labs................... p. 6 NAVC Partners...................p. 11 National Shelter Survey Data.........................p. 11 The VETTYs Grand Prize Winners.....................p. 14 VetFolio @ Work..............p. 17

PAGE 3 VETERINARY INNOVATION SUMMIT Join us for the inaugural Veterinary Innovation Summit in College Station, Texas, April 28 through 30. If you have an interest in the future of veterinary medicine, this summit is for you!

DAILY STATS 83˚F/28˚C WEATHER

PAGE 5 EARL H. RIPPIE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

PAGE 18 A ROAD MAP FOR VETERINARY TELEMEDICINE

The NAVC is proud to launch a scholarship for veterinary technicians in honor of Past President Dr. Rippie. Find out how to apply.

Mark Cushing, JD, lays out the case for—and the hurdles facing­— the implementation of telemedicine in everyday veterinary practice.

SPEAKERS

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EVENTS

TUESDAY IN BRIEF

IN THIS ISSUE

ENTER TO WIN!

Today’s Passport Prize: Tech Package (iPad Air 2 and Amazon Echo) Download the NAVC Conference mobile app and visit participating booths.

Today’s Daily Prize: Amazon Tap Bluetooth Speaker Get your badge

scanned in the Exhibit Hall during today’s 9:15 – 9:55 AM coffee break for a chance to win.

Alumni Receptions – see p. 4 Health and Wellbeing Center Events – see p. 4 Learning Theater Schedule – see p. 9

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INSIDE > GAIL GIBSON How has the NAVC as an organization changed since you first became involved? What is it about the NAVC that has kept you intrigued?

Change is our middle name! When I first joined the Board of Directors, we were primarily involved with organizing an annual conference that took place in Orlando in January and in providing a week-long intensive study in one subject at our NAVC Institute. Now we have moved into other areas where we can provide quality continuing education through other forums. VetFolio, which provides resources on the internet for your entire practice, offers CE courses, web conferences and more. We also publish outstanding journals for the entire veterinary community. Also, a little more than a year ago, we became involved with helping with management of smaller associations and helping them host conferences for their organizations. I’ve only touched on a few of our services, but they all are meant to help our industry.

Our next venture is an annual conference on the West Coast in Portland, Oregon, called NAVC Live. We want our colleagues at a distance from Florida to have an opportunity to experience an innovative NAVC conference nearer to them. We’re also expanding our Institute to include a week-long study in Buffalo, New York, called NAVC Discovery. All very exciting stuff.

THE NAVC CONFERENCE 2017 PRESENTS

IGNITE

What advice do you have for rural practices that experience challenges hiring and keeping qualified employees?

You have hit on one of the most challenging aspects of my veterinary career. It has been difficult—to say the least—to attract and then keep veterinarians in rural areas. I try to convey to candidates the wonderful lifestyle that can be enjoyed in our area, the close personal relationships that you develop with your clients, and the wide array of cases that you get to handle in the practice. It’s usually not the salary or the benefits that are the problem because, if anything, they are better than what is being offered elsewhere. I wish I had the answer because I’d never want to live anywhere else.

The NAVC relies on partnerships and sponsorships to produce quality events and affordable onsite and online education. What’s in it for those willing to invest in the NAVC? Why are we a good choice?

Our partners and sponsors are invaluable. Without them we could never produce such an all-encompassing conference as we do or publish such valuable journals that keep our veterinary healthcare team current in this ever-changing world. They help form the backbone of not only our conference but of all the programs we offer. We are a progressive and collaborative organization in a large industry that really benefits from our work. Part of why I love being a part of the NAVC is because we approach every project with a “How can we help?” attitude. I think that makes us a great choice for our partners and sponsors.

You have a lot to be proud of. What accomplishments do you hold most dear? And what are you looking forward to?

So many people end up in careers that they grow tired of. I am so lucky that I still love and have great enthusiasm for veterinary medicine. My husband, Dr. Jack Gibson, and I bought a small veterinary practice years ago and, with the help of a great staff, we have built it into a four-doctor practice that provides quality medical and surgical services while emphasizing customer service. Professionally, this is my greatest accomplishment.

Personally, and more importantly, we have raised two accomplished children with good hearts, Reid and Lisa. Family means more to me than anything. We are anxiously awaiting our fifth granddaughter to join Alyssa, Amanda, Mya and Briana! Life is never dull at our house!

Is there any program that the NAVC offers that we may not know about?

I’m so glad you’ve asked because one of the most satisfying areas of NAVC in which I have been involved is the Colin F. Burrows International Scholars Program. Through a partnership with WSAVA, we locate veterinarians throughout the world who, with some help from the NAVC, can create CE for their colleagues. We sponsor them by providing them with airfare, hotel, meals and a stipend so they can attend our annual conference in Orlando. Once they’re here, we involve them in all the aspects of creating a CE conference so they can replicate the experience back home. All the scholars I’ve worked with have been just wonderful people; they are all so appreciative of our efforts. It has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time on the NAVC Board.

INSIDE NAVC

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE NAVC CONFERENCE

2017

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INSIDE NAVC

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EXECUTIVE EDITORS Summer Graziano NAVC Senior Marketing Director

MANAGING EDITOR Robin Henry Executive Editor, NAVC Publications

Danna Miller NAVC Communication and PR Director

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Michelle Taylor Joe Stern

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8:00 – 11:45 AM • OCCC, W331A Join us today for 10-minute TED* like talks designed to spark conversations, offer fresh ideas and bring new perspectives about the future of our profession.

•T ake the Owners to “The Back” - The Open Hospital Concept • FREE Money to the Bank!

• The Choice is Life: Taking the Steps Back to Connection • The Vet Confessionals Project: What’s your Secret?

• Voiceless Victims: Wildlife and Free-roaming Cats • The Virtual Veterinary Exam Room: The Future of Telemedicine • Taking the Road Less Traveled • The Curse of Knowledge • Welcoming Educational Technology Home to the Veterinary Hospital • Veterinarians Behaving Badly: Avoid These Common Financial Mistakes • Global Deep Sea Drilling: Past, Present and Future Ecosystem Damage • Veterinary Nurse or Veterinary Technician? Why It Matters To The Profession • The Behavioral Science of Client Retention • Your Boss May Own the Car, but Are You the Driver?

• If the Pet Could Talk...

For times and speakers, please see page 85 of the Official Program Guide. *The NAVC and IGNITE! are not affiliated with TED or TEDx.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & EDITORS Megan Cox Summer Graziano Ashlynn Henkel Robin Henry Danna Miller Elsbeth Russell Connie Sue White

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIPS Whitney Brockman Jamie Laws Laura Walker Kim Zillioux

INSIDE THE NAVC AND TEXAS A & M LAUNCH NEW EVENT FOR INNOVATORS Registration is now open for the Veterinary Innovation Summit in College Station, Texas, April 28 through 30, 2017 Dedicated to sparking and fostering ingenuity, the Veterinary Innovation Summit offers unique programming, an immersive learning environment and a CE opportunity for those who consider themselves innovative thinkers and who welcome change and growth. Introduced by the NAVC and the Department of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University, the Veterianry Innovation Summit will be hosted in the university’s new Veterinary & Biomedical Education Complex.

“The future is here!” said Dr. Eleanor M. Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University. “Being on the edge of innovation has its challenges—merging modern and traditional aspects of veterinary medicine is no easy feat, but anything worth pursuing always includes challenges. This program will explore how we enter the future of veterinary medicine, including the present opportunities and future possibilities for advancing innovations in veterinary health care delivery and veterinary education.”

The event is the first of its kind in veterinary

medicine, with attendees having the opportunity to shape the profession. “Sometimes people are unaware of what’s going on broadly, outside the scope of their practice,” said Adam Little, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “At this summit, veterinarians will have the opportunity to understand how the practice is changing and how the veterinary profession can enable growth. Veterinarians are more passionate and creative than people give them credit for, and some may have great ideas for companies to expand what they do for the industry.”

The idea for the summit originated in 2014, when Drs. Little and Green began exploring ways that technology might move the profession forward. They hoped to design an event that would bring innovative companies and veterinarians together in personal conversation.

The NAVC appreciated this goal, and has proudly partnered with Texas A&M to bring the first-ever Veterinary Innovation Summit to life.

“The NAVC is excited to bring a global

For more than 25 years, the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) has trusted Freeman to serve as the official services contractor for the NAVC Conference.

audience to this event,” said NAVC Chief Operating Officer Peter Scott, CAE, APR. “This event will be unlike anything the profession has ever seen.”

“This is every veterinarian’s chance to expand what the practice does and speak up about what tools are needed to be able to move forward,” said Dr. Little.

To sign up for this unique experience, or to learn more about the summit, visit the booth in E/F Lobby or visit VeterinaryInnovationSummit.com.

Is the Veterinary Innovation Summit for You?

The Veterinary Innovation Summit was designed for: • Practitioners who are looking toward the future and who want to keep up with the pace of change in the industry • Industry representatives who are asking, “What role can my company play in the future of veterinary medicine?”

•T echnology business owners who want to see how their company can provide more of what veterinarians need •A ssociation professionals who are shepherding the members of their professions • Students, who are the future of both practice and industry and have a responsibility to be informed of how things may change

NO, NOT EVEN THAT LOOK WILL GET YOU IN. YOU NEED YOUR BADGE TO GET INTO EVENTS.

We look forward to working with the NAVC and its exhibitors for years to come.

Please remember to wear your badge at all times.

freemanco.com

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INSIDE WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE HEALTH SYNTHETIC CANINE ALLOWS AND WELLBEING CENTER TODAY? CADAVER-FREE TRAINING The Health and Wellbeing Center activities are designed to complement the NAVC’s new Health and Wellbeing educational sessions on Wednesday, February 8. Check INSIDE NAVC and stop by the Center, located in the main aisle of the Exhibit Hall at the OCCC, every day to see what’s happening!

Today’s activities include: Mental and Professional Health Information Sessions Mental and occupational health professionals and coaches offer 15- to 20-minute discussions throughout the day about vital topics that are relevant to the veterinary profession.

•9 :05 AM—Top Confessionals & Guidance to Resources, Presented by Ron Del Moro, PhD, Mental Health Counselor •9 :30 AM—Tips on Initiating and Handling Difficult Conversations, Presented by Debbie Boone, BS, CCS, CVPM—2 Manage Vets Consulting, LLC •2 :45 PM—The Power of Vet Confessionals: Letting Go of the Secrets, Presented by Hilal Dogan, DVM • 3:10 PM—Take a Deep Dive Into Emotions, Presented by Kimberly Pope-Robinson, DVM, CCFP—1 Life Connected Consulting

The SynDaver Synthetic Canine is designed to replace live animals and animal cadavers in veterinary surgical training. Based on 20+ years of SynDaver research, this futuristic animal model is made from water, fibers and salts.

It is a life saver, but it is not alive. It breathes and bleeds just like a real dog. It has individual muscles, bones, and organs­—and can be operated on repeatedly without risking a live animal!

SynDaver Canine is superior to live animals because it accurately mimics live tissue and allows the simulation of any pathology or condition based on educational needs. When it is used in an educational setting, veterinary students will be challenged in ways that could only be dreamed of before.

“SynDaver Synthetic Canine is going to revolutionize veterinary medical education here at the University of Florida. This type of technology helps us to become one of the leading institutions in academic veterinary medicine in the world.”

Guided Meditation Sessions Join Kim Holten, yoga instructor and wellness coordinator for the University of Florida Office of Human Resources, for a guided meditation session to help ease stress. Sessions today are at 9:55 and 10:55 AM and 2:45 and 3:55 PM. Limited seating available.

Rabies Titer Testing & Biochemical Assays Kansas State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory staff are offering Conference attendees rabies titer testing as well as general biochemical assays. Register at the Health and Wellbeing Center’s registration table or preregister online at Kansas State University Scheduler.

The Center is open today from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM at Booth #3729.

7:00 PM | Hilton Orlando Renew old friendships at NAVC Conference Alumni Receptions, sponsored by each university’s alumni association for veterinarians and their families.

Participating universities are listed on page 43 of the Official Program Guide.

Check the NAVC Conference Mobile App and hotel signs for room locations.

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Students and instructors will be able to repeat procedures over and over and make mistakes on a synthetic animal rather than a living one. When they graduate, they will be much more capable and save more animal lives as a result.

SynDaver Canine is superior to animal cadavers because it is designed to mimic live tissue. And since SynDaver Canine can be repeatedly serviced for continued use, it will last essentially forever—unlike cadavers, which must be continually acquired and disposed of. Finally, students and faculty will not be exposed to the carcinogenic formaldehyde used to preserve dead animals.

How many veterinary colleges use terminal labs?

SynDaver’s survey of domestic veterinary colleges currently shows that 26.7% do not engage in terminal surgeries. However, 16.6% responded that they do engage in terminal labs; the remainder (53.3%) declined to answer the question. The assumption is that those declining to answer are still engaging in terminal labs. SynDaver has not surveyed schools outside of the United States.

ALUMNI RECEPTIONS

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–Dr. James Lloyd, DMV, PhD, Dean, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine

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“A significant number of students do not care to be involved in terminal surgery procedures or the use of live animals when there are alternatives.

And I’m so happy that we have this change because that is where we need to be today.”

–Dr. Michael Blackwell, DVM, MPH, Former Chief Veterinarian of the US Public Health Service

INSIDE LEADERS, STEP FORWARD

The NAVC announces the Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Technician Leadership Scholarship Are you a veterinary technician or veterinary nurse with a talent for leadership? Would you like to come to VMX next year on a leadership scholarship? Read on to find out how to get your chance!

Last year, the NAVC lost a dear friend, Dr. Earl H. Rippie, Jr, former past president and secretary-treasurer, when he passed away in June. Dr. Rippie, a leader in the veterinary profession in his own right, was also a champion of veterinary technicians. He recognized that technicians are the spokes in the wheel of the practice and the heart of the hospital. He believed that veterinary technicians should be the first ones to see the client in the exam room, that they are equal voices on the veterinary team, and that they bring unparalleled value to the health and wellbeing of animals.

The new Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Technician Leadership Scholarship honors Dr. Rippie’s memory and his appreciation for

veterinary technicians. It recognizes veterinary technicians and veterinary nurses who have demonstrated leadership abilities and have made a positive impact on the growth of the profession or in their practice. It includes: • Free registration for VMX 2018 • One Masterclass at VMX 2018 • Invitation to VMX 2018 special events as a VIP • Preconference meet/greet with the NAVC Board of Directors and other scholars “The NAVC family was deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Dr. Rippie, and the Board of Directors wanted to do something that would keep his spirit of support and camaraderie alive,” said Paige A. Allen, MS, RVT, Director, NAVC Board of Directors.

“Dr. Rippie was supportive of veterinary technicians and

knew they were fully capable of leadership.

He was a mentor to several of us on the Board of Directors and we wanted to continue the tradition of supporting leaders in the veterinary technology profession.”

To be eligible for the scholarship, domestic applicants must be credentialed according to their state requirements; international applicants must be a qualified veterinary technician/nurse in their country of residence. Three scholarships (two domestic and one international) will be awarded for VMX 2018.

Veterinary Technicians’ Lounge Sponsored by

“If by chance you wish to remember me, do it with a kind deed or word to someone who needs it. If you do what I have asked, I will live forever.”

—Dr. Earl Rippie, Jr

Tuesday, February 7, 2017 OCCC Level II, Exhibit Hall, Booth 3139 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Come relax while you recharge your phone and connect with other veterinary technicians. Attend special educational snippets and events by industry partners, learn about veterinary technician specialties and connect with board members from NAVTA. A schedule of events will be posted at the lounge entrance.

What You Need to Apply: 1. A completed online application form 2. Your curriculum vitae or resume 3. Two letters of endorsement by a colleague, mentor or supervisor who can attest to your leadership abilities and impact on the growth of the profession and/or your practice 4. Proof of membership (letter of good standing that includes years as a member) in a local, state, regional, provincial or national veterinary technician association or specialty academy 5. A 3- to 5-minute video about yourself, your passion for their profession, and how you have demonstrated your leadership abilities For forms and more details, visit NAVC.com after this year’s Conference!

The submission deadline is May 1, 2017.

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS FEATURED EVENTS TODAY

Fun(d) Golf Tournament Benefitting the WSAVA Foundation 8:00 AM | Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Club TONIGHT’S RECEPTIONS

Tuesday | 2.7

AVAILABLE HANDS-ON LABORATORIES* - HILTON ORLANDO Brad Case, Howard Seim Feline Common Soft Tissue V Surgical Procedures 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Full Day) Patella Luxation Repair 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Full Day)

Alumni Receptions 7:00 PM

Dental Radiography 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Half Day)

LGVMA Reception 6:30 PM | Hilton Orlando, Orange Ballroom A

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Treating the Traumatized Turtle: Advances in Wound Management and Fracture Repair in Chelonians 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Half Day)

SESSION/TRACKS/PRESENTATIONS Merial Pain Symposium 8:00 – 11:45 AM | OCCC, WF2

Donald Hulse, William Brian Saunders Cindy Charlier

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Heather Barron, Shane Boylan, Terry Norton

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Adam Honeckman, Tony Johnson, Susan Little

Bayer Cutting Edge Symposium 8:00 – 11:45 AM | OCCC, WF1

Feline Medicine Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Half Day)

The Next Level Sponsored by Virbac 8:00 – 11:45 AM | OCCC, W224EF

Wound Management 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Half Day)

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AVAILABLE MASTERCLASSES* Diabetic Home Monitoring, Pros and Pitfalls 8:00 – 10:00 AM Blue Spring I

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MC 21 – Tuesday

Cystotomy Principles 8:00 – 10:00 AM Blue Spring II

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MC 22 – Tuesday

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MC 23 – Tuesday

IDEXX – Skinny Cat Track 8:00 – 11:45 AM | OCCC, WF4 American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia Sponsored by Akorn Animal Health 8:00 AM – 4:50 PM | OCCC, WF3 Association of Shelter Veterinarians: Shelter Medicine Program Sponsored by Merck Animal Health) 8:00 AM – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W230C National Veterinary Accreditation Courses Sponsored by USDA 8:00 AM – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W230A Geriatric and End of Life Medicine Sponsored by CareCredit 8:00 AM – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W230B Equine Dentistry Sponsored by Akorn Animal Health 8:00 AM – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W231AB Equine: Gait Abnormalities: Lame Versus Neurologic Sponsored by Akorn Animal Health 8:00 AM – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W232AB IDEXX Grand Rounds 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, WF4 Beyond Diagnosis: Multimodal Approaches to Feline Chronic Care Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W224EF Patients, Procedures and Protocols Symposium Sponsored by Zoetis 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, WF1 Merial Vaccine Symposium 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, WF2 Veterinary Emerging Topics: Are We Doing Our Part to Prevent Superbugs Sponsored by Banfield Pet Hospital 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W331A Beyond Diagnosis: Expert Share Multimodal Approaches to Feline Chronic Care Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W224EF

Clinical Approach to Feline Lymphoma 8:00 – 10:00 AM Rainbow Spring I

Jude Bordelon, Bonnie Campbell, Matthew Johnson

Neurology Rehabilitation 2:40 – 4:40 PM Silver Spring I

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Tech MC 9 – Tuesday

External Skeletal Fixation: Managing a Metal Skeleton 8:00 – 10:00 AM Silver Spring II

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Tech MC 10 – Tuesday

Bullying in the Workplace 2:40 – 4:40 PM Rainbow Spring I

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MC 27 – Tuesday

Colloids, Crystalloids and Electrolytes, OH MY! 2:40 – 4:40 PM Silver Spring I

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Tech MC 11 – Tuesday

Advanced Catheterization Techniques 2:40 – 4:40 PM Silver Spring II

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Tech MC 12 – Tuesday

AVAILABLE MEET THE PROFESSOR LUNCHEONS* Get Better Results with Your Surgical Oncology Cases 12:00 – 1:30 PM Blue Spring I

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MTPL 13 – Tuesday

Evolution of Fracture Fixationlocking Plate Systems 12:00 – 1:30 PM Blue Spring II

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MTPL 14 – Tuesday

* Additional fee required. See our Registration Desk at the OCCC to confirm openings and to register.

Limited seating, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Practice Management: Finance Sponsored by Vets First Choice 1:45 – 4:50 PM | OCCC, W224AB

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VETERINARIANS

VT

VETERINARY TECHNICIANS

PM

PRACTICE MANAGERS

GO GOLD.

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BY PINKERTON® CONSULTING & INVESTIGATIONS CONTAINS TWO INGREDIENTS TO PREVENT FLEA INFESTATIONS KILLS FLEAS AND TICKS KILLS FLEA EGGS AND LARVAE BACKED BY SATISFACTION PLUS GUARANTEETM** * When infested 48 hours after application. ** Subject to terms and conditions of the SATISFACTION PLUS GUARANTEE. For complete details go to www.FRONTLINE.com

Merial is now part of Boehringer Ingelheim.

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Data on file at Merial

®FRONTLINE is a registered trademark, and TMSATISFACTION PLUS GUARANTEE is a trademark, of Merial. All other marks are the property of their respective owners ©2017 Merial, Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. FLE17GOLDTRADEAD02 (01/17).

www.FRONTLINE.com www.FRONTLINE.com

INSIDE

VENUE GUIDE — Don’t miss today’s main events: Fun(d) Golf Tournament Benefitting the WSAVA Foundation 8:00 AM • Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Club

Fix the Debt 1:00 - 3:00 PM • Hyatt Regency Orlando L

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Alumni Receptions 7:00 PM • Hilton Orlando; check OPG page 43 for specific room locations

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THE OCCC

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Sky Bridge

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IGNITE! OCCC, W331A 8:00 - 11:45 AM

NAVC CENTRAL OCCC, Exhibit Hall

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BARK IN THE PARK ADOPTION FAIR NAVC Central, OCCC, Exhibit Hall 12:00 - 2:00 PM

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Exhibit Hall Open • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM • OCCC

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WEST CONCOURSE General Session, Core Scientific Program, Exhibit Hall, Registration Breakfast Sessions, Meet the Professor Luncheons, Evening Sessions, Evening Entertainment, 3- to 4-minute walk to the West Concourse 3- to 4-minute walk to the West Concourse Hands-on Labs, Alumni Receptions, The Big Game Party, 15- to 20-minute walk to the West Concourse Hands-on Labs, Alumni Receptions, The Big Game Party, 15- to 20-minute walk to the West Concourse

IN tune

INSIDE

INSIDE

IN touch

INsight

NAVC CENTRAL IS SOMETHING TO BARK ABOUT

INformed INspired INfluential

Go all IN

NAVC Learning Theater Schedule for Tuesday, February 7: 10:00 AM Marketing 101 - Packing Your Practice with New Clients Joel Parker, DVM • Sponsored by: Veterinary Practice Solutions

AT THE NAVC CONFERENCE 2017 WITH BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM VETMEDICA, INC. (BIVI)

10:30 AM HR Management 101 - Leading your Team to Greatness Joel Parker, DVM • Sponsored by: Veterinary Practice Solutions 11:00 AM Oral Care and the Role of GREENIES™ Dental Products Mars Petcare • Sponsored by: Greenies/Nutro Company 11:30 AM The Role of NPAIDs (Non-Pharmaceutical Anti-inflammatory Devices) Deirdre Chiaramonte, DVM, ACVIM, CCRT, CVA • Sponsored by: Assisi Animal Health

INquire at Booth #1839 to learn more about the BIVI portfolio of trusted pharmaceuticals and gain insights about your pet owners in ways you never imagined.

Don’t forget to pick up your free T-shirt!

12:00 PM Next Generation Therapy for Canine Atopic Dermatitis Andy Hillier, BVSc, MACVSc, Dip ACVD • Sponsored by: Zoetis 12:30 PM Aim to Improve Diabetic Patient Monitoring in 2017 Matthew Krecic, DVM, DACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine) • Sponsored by: Zoetis

For use in dogs only.

1:00 PM Protect Your Lab Revenue! Plug the Leads in Your Lab Fritz Wood, CPA, CFP • Sponsored by: IDEXX 1:30 PM Rapid Heart Rhythm Analysis: Canine ECG Examples Brian A. Scansen DVM, MS, DACVIM (Cardiology) • Sponsored by: Kindred Biosciences, Inc.

For use in dogs only.

2:00 PM Cough in Dogs: Diagnostic Algorithm Brian A. Scansen DVM, MS, DACVIM (Cardiology) • Sponsored by: Kindred Biosciences, Inc. 2:30 PM “Meet the Author Presentation” Clifford R. “Kip” Berry • Sponsored by: NAVC Bookstore

For use in cats only.

3:30 PM Parasite Jeopardy: Test your Knowledge!

Chris Adolph, DVM, MS, DACVIM • Sponsored by: Zoetis

STOP BY BOOTH #1839 TO LEARN MORE!

4:00 PM Exploratory Abdominal Surgery with SynDaver Canine David Danielson, DVM • Sponsored by: SynDaver

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METACAM and VETMEDIN are registered trademarks of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, licensed to Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. PROZINC is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. © 2017 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. PET-0070-PMA1216 16999

®

®

REDUCES SEIZURES IN EPILEPTIC DOGS

WHEN FED AS AN ADJUNCT TO VETERINARY THERAPY DIEAT Y GE L AN ON

T &IONALLY SMY* P IT F I RS UTR PILE TO N WITH E S DOG

L E A R N M O R E AT B O O T H # 1 8 0 1 Law TH, Davies ES, Pan Y, et al. A randomized trial of a medium-chain TAG diet as treatment for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Br J Nutr 2015:1-10.

Purina trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Any other marks are property of their respective owners. Printed in USA.

*as an adjunct to veterinary therapy

INSIDE NAVC PARTNERS MAKE IT ALL POSSIBLE…AND AFFORDABLE When visiting the Exhibit Hall and sponsored talks, please take a moment to thank our partners for making the NAVC Conference 2017 possible!

Here’s a fact you may not know: the NAVC is a nonprofit association.

We do not earn profits for our owners — all the money we earn or receive through sponsorships is used for our quest of veterinary education and success.

We rely on revenue from our program sponsorships, exhibitors, advertisers and registration fees to provide world-class continuing professional development for the global veterinary healthcare community. We don’t want to imagine what would happen without our Industry Partners.

Their support makes possible a significant portion of the extraordinary NAVC experience at the most affordable rates for everyone on the veterinary DIAMOND PARTNERS

healthcare team. This includes our annual NAVC Conference as well as our other programs: VetFolio, NAVC Institute, NAVC Discovery: Buffalo, NAVC Live: Portland, NAVC OnCampus, the Veterinary Innovation Council, our official journals (Today’s Veterinary Technician, Today’s Veterinary Practice, Today’s Veterinary Business and Veterinary Advantage) and more.

There are 4 main levels of NAVC sponsorships: Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver.

These levels are based on companies offering major yearround sponsorship/support related to all NAVC programs.

• Direct sponsorships are funds provided by Industry Partners to support specific events or services for attendees.

• Indirect sponsorships are additional funds for events or services at NAVC programs

PLATINUM PARTNERS

GOLD PARTNERS

in which an attendee benefits (e.g., catering or attendee bags).

We’re grateful to these major Industry Partners for their commitment, but of course, we appreciate all our veterinary Industry Partners! Smaller companies might not be able to attain these partnership levels, but they’re extremely important to the NAVC and our Conference attendees. Not only do they invest what they can during our events, but they, along with our major partners, provide education, new technologies, forums with industry leaders, special events, demonstrations and much more, all to provide you with timely and relevant information that helps you thrive.

Please take a moment to thank all our partners by visiting their booths and asking about their solutions for veterinary care.

SILVER PARTNERS

25% SAVINGS TO YOU

Our Industry Partners that sponsor the NAVC Conference 2017 sessions and services — and exhibit in our Exhibit Hall — save you approximately 25% in your fee to access hundreds of CE learning sessions, networking opportunities and more. In addition, many of our sponsors, exhibitors and advertisers offer free giveaways, discounts and special opportunities during the NAVC Conference to help you meet your practice goals!

BRONZE PARTNERS

GLOBAL DIAGNOSTICS

SHELTER SURVEY DATA PRESENTED TODAY

1:00 PM • Hyatt Regency, Celebration 4 Today, Kimberly Woodruff, DVM, MS, and David Smith, DVM, PhD, DACVPM (Epidemiology), two leading researchers from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, in collaboration with the Social Science Research Center, will present pioneering data from a comprehensive national survey of dog shelters. Numbers of shelters, numbers of dogs available for adoption annually, transfers to other facilities and returns to pet owners with regional and other factors will all be among the data presented.

Why are these findings so important? As Mark Cushing, JD, Founding Partner of Animal Policy Group LLC, put it, “This first-ever study will guide animal welfare groups, industry, veterinary colleges, the veterinary profession and policy makers going forward. The NAVC Conference is the right venue for this presentation because it pulls together practicing veterinarians, vet techs, industry, professional leaders and animal welfare organizations from around the country.”

FIND MAX!

WIN AN AMAZON ECHO

Enter to win by spotting the VetFolio mascot Max the Meerkat in this issue of INSIDE NAVC.

Meerkats are great at hiding in small places. If you can find Max the Meerkat in today’s issue of INSIDE NAVC, you could win an Amazon Echo!

Here’s how it works: • Download the NAVC Conference 2017 mobile app.

• Check out each page of today’s issue of INSIDE NAVC, cover to cover.

• See if you can spot the Max Meerkat icon hidden somewhere in the content (besides this appearance, of course!)

• Enter the code word on Max’s shirt into the game in the mobile app.

• You can enter once each day on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

• Each day by 8:00 PM, we’ll draw one winner at random and will notify them by email.

You never know where Max is burrowing. Good luck!

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Register for Hands-on Laboratories, Masterclasses, Meet the Professor Luncheons and Behind the Scenes Tours Visit our Registration Desk at the OCCC to see which sessions still have openings and to register. Openings are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Give Us Your Opinion — Win Prizes!

We want your input to make VMX EVEN BETTER next year.

We’d also love to have your vote for the NAVC Conference 2017 Speakers of the Year. It’s easy to complete our survey in just minutes.

•S imply take our electronic survey on the Mobile App or at an Evaluation Station in the OCCC, D2 Foyer.

• I f you include your name and email address, you could win prizes that include $100 gift cards and a free registration to VMX 2018.

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Know When & Where to Get a Shuttle Our free NAVC Shuttle Service, sponsored by Merial, runs daily for your convenience. You’ll find shuttle routes and hours in the Mobile App or on p. 215 of the Official Program Guide.

Sunday | 5:30 AM – 11:00 PM Monday | 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday | 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday | 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM

To learn more about the Veterinary Innovation Awards and to nominate an individual or organization visit VICAwards.com.

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HOW DO I ?

Recharge My Laptop & Mobile Devices, Get Online Stop by the NAVC Central Lounge, where you’ll find charging stations as well as Internet access and comfortable seating so you can recharge your own batteries while powering up your equipment.

The North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) and the Veterinary Innovation Council (VIC) are excited to announce the launch of their first ever Veterinary Innovation Awards. Sponsored by Zomedica, the awards will provide veterinarians and their peers a chance to nominate passionate innovators and organizations that have dedicated themselves to the betterment of the animal health industry. The NAVC and VIC are honored to recognize those people and organizations that have made a difference in veterinary medicine and in the lives of animals everywhere.

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Get NAVC Conference 2017 Proceedings Three Proceedings versions are available: Small Animal, Large Animal and Veterinary Technician. Practice Management is included in all versions.

• I f you preordered your Proceedings (print or USB) and didn’t get them during check-in, you can pick them up in the OCCC Registration area.

• I f you ordered the digital version online, you should have received an email with a link and download instructions.

Questions? See our IT Help Desk (West Hall, D2 Foyer).

• I f you’d like to order digital Proceedings onsite, visit the Registration Desk. Remaining printed versions will be available after Conference at the online NAVC Bookstore.

•Y ou’ll also find thousands of Proceedings from previous NAVC Conferences online at VetFolio.com (subscription required). Visit the VetFolio booth (OCCC, West Hall, C Lobby) for more information or a demo.

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IMPORTANT! It is your responsibility to submit CE to your State Board. The NAVC does not submit CE reports for attendees.

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Keep Track of My 2017 CE Credits Every time you attend a session, make sure your conference name badge is scanned to record your attendance. You may also want to list each CE session you attend on the 2017 Record of Participation (ROP) form (p. 49 of our Official Program Guide). Then, check your ROPs at a kiosk in the OCCC CE Center, West Hall, D2 Foyer, beginning on Monday.

You can…

•E mail the certificate PDF(s) directly from our CE kiosk to your personal email (this is BY FAR the easiest and best way to maintain an electronic record).

•P rint certificates and ROPs from our CE kiosks before you leave. NOTE: Veterinarians licensed in Texas must do this.

•P rint certificates at home from NAVC.com using your registration login.

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Veterinary Behaviorists are uniquely qualified to understand the relationship between any medical and behavioral reasons for a problem behavior before tailoring a plan for the animal and its owner.

DON’T MISS

The ACVB Veterinary Behavior Symposium Thursday, July 20, 2017, Immediately preceding the AVMA Annual Convention in Indianapolis, IN

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INSIDE Goodies and grabs. What did you get today? >

Leslie Johnson, DVM

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Julia Stege, DVM & Hilary Keldahl, CVT

Jade Kafer, DVM, Jenna Winchell, CVT & Megan McCrea, CVT

Tom Stangl, Guest

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Chandrakant Bhatia, BVSc & Ravi Murarka, DVM

> >

Donald Force, VMD, Matthew Force & Dianna Schwarz, Practice Manager

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!

Share a photo with hashtag #FrontlineFelix for a chance to win a prize for your practice!

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Technician Students Amanda Wolfe & Sarah Haller

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INSIDE INAUGURAL VETTYS WINNERS ON DISPLAY NAVC’s new marketing awards honor the best of the best in animal health marketing initiatives of 2016

Discover the winners of the first and only animal health marketing awards dedicated solely to celebrating North America’s animal health advertising, promotion and education efforts in the special exhibition located in the OCCC West D Lobby.

Dubbed The VETTYs, the awards are the first of their kind to recognize the marketing initiatives of companies, associations and universities promoting products that are sold to veterinarians or through veterinary practices. Initiatives considered for The VETTYs may include, but are not limited to, creative print ads, commercials, videos, promotions, digital marketing, social media campaigns, tradeshow booths and activations, sales materials and clinic merchandise.

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

JUDGES AWARD 1

Merial’s Lurking Dread Campaign

SPOTLIGHT AWARD

Hill’s Prescription Diet Booth JUDGES AWARD 2

Abaxis Tradeshow Booth JUDGES AWARD 3

Merck’s Bravecto “Cats Are Everywhere” Campaign

BEST OF SHOW: NOT FOR PROFIT

Cat Healthy B2B Social Media Campaign “That’s Cat for…”

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BEST OF SHOW: FOR PROFIT

Zoetis’ Simpatico Early Experience Mailing

The Global Veterinary Imaging Leader

Learning Ultrasound Has Never Been Easier Scan-IQ® - The New Comprehensive Ultrasound Training Experience

Learn Your Scan-IQ

Booth #2001

Portable CT Now Fits Into Any Practice • 8-Slice • Portable, Battery Powered, Wireless • Self Shielded

See How Advanced Imaging can Grow Your Practice - Booth #2001 Introducing Sound’s New Emerging Technologies Division: MRI, CT, C-Arm

INSIDE PASSPORT GOES MOBILE Let us show you a brighter future!

Which of these valuable items will you be taking home with you?

Interactive Medical Acupuncture Anatomy

by Dr. Narda Robinson $299.00 value!

A New Way to Play

Win prizes at the NAVC Conference with your NAVC Passport •S TEP 1 - Download the NAVC Conference Mobile App at NAVC.com/MobileApp • STEP 2 - Log in with your name and registration number •S TEP 3 - Collect all of the badges at the Passport locations through the app to be entered to win!

We’ll contact you by email or phone if you’ve been selected as a winner.

NAVC Passport Prizes Sunday, February 5 – NAVC Conference 2018 Registration Monday, February 6 – Family Disney World Prize ($500 Disney Gift Card) Tuesday, February 7 – Tech Package (iPad Air 2 and Amazon Echo) Wednesday, February 8 – Grand Prize: $10,000 Daily Prize Giveaways Get your badge scanned from at least two booths at the Exhibit Hall from 9:15 – 9:55 am to be eligible to win one of our many daily prizes.

One winner will be chosen daily.

Sunday, February 5 – Amazon Echo Monday, February 6 – Apple TV Tuesday, February 7 – Amazon Tap Bluetooth Speaker Wednesday, February, 8 – iPad Air 2

NAVC.com/MobileApp

Winners will be posted online at NAVC.com/Passport

Canine Medical Massage

by Dr. Narda Robinson & Shelley Sheets $69.00 value!

#NAVC2017

Join the conversation during the NAVC Conference… and after 4 Organic Essential Oils $59.00 value!

Make connections, share your voice and collaborate with your peers online. Here are some prompts to get the conversation started:: • Tell us what you love most about the NAVC Conference 2017, be it something you learned in a hands-on lab, a speaker who inspired you, a new product that rocked your world, a veterinary influencer you got to meet, etc.

• Post a photo with colleagues, new friends, old classmates or a mentor • Ask questions, post comments, share stories or even a live video • Like, love or share posts you enjoy We’d love to know what you have to say! Use #NAVC2017 in your posts so our Conference community can follow and chime in.

CuraCore Yoga Mat $39.00 value!

NAVC-RELATED SOCIAL MEDIA NAVC FACEBOOK Facebook.com/TheNAVC NAVC TWITTER Twitter.com/The_NAVC NAVC INSTAGRAM Instagram.com/The_NAVC

Register for CuraCore courses at our booth during the NAVC Conference 2017 to receive your free gifts!

Linkedin.com/company/navc-northamericanveterinary-community

NAVC LINKEDIN

NAVC GOOGLE+ http://bit.ly/NAVCGooglePlus TODAY’S VETERINARY TECHNICIAN Facebook.com/TodaysVeterinaryTechnician FACEBOOK TODAY’S VETERINARY TECHNICIAN Twitter.com/tvtjournal TWITTER TODAY’S VETERINARY PRACTICE Facebook.com/TodaysVeterinaryPractice FACEBOOK

See us at our booth #4212 for more information or you can visit our website CuraCore.org

TODAY’S VETERINARY PRACTICE Twitter.com/tvpjournal TWITTER

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VETFOLIO WORK

Cristi Semmler, BS, CVT, RALAT Faculty Instructor of Veterinary Technology Eastern Wyoming College VetFolio User Since 2015

Teaches 65-70 students each semester

Signing Up “At the NAVC Conference in 2015, I chatted with one of the reps at the booth. I found out that there was no subscription fee for educators, so I looked into signing up. I liked the different types of courses available. As an educator, I like to be on the cutting edge of veterinary education so I can give students a heads-up on what’s new in the industry.”

Getting Started “If I’m working on my CE, I’m usually at home. I use VetFolio to look for specific examples for my students. I’ll watch a course at home and assign it as a module in class, and ask them to bring their certificate in to show they completed it. If I tell students “This is how it is” about a certain topic, they may not take it as well from me, but coming from expert in the field, it really has weight. We frequently use VetFolio courses to enhance the information in class.”

Becoming a Pro Pro tip: “Go into specific continuing education and search for something you’re interested in. You may need to generalize your search term a little to find what you’re looking for. I probably spent 30 hours over the Christmas 2015 break doing continuing education just because I felt like it.”

Photo credit: Sunshine Photography by Corrie Gamel

“I think the Certificate Course series are great for students to take and put on their resumes. I think it makes them look more knowledgeable in the eyes of potential employers.”

Finding Your Passion • Pain management • Lab research • Educating future generations

Meet Azule!

Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee Chair

Making #Goals Completing the six-course series on veterinary forensic science & medicine and animal crime scene investigation

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INSIDE A REGULATORY ROAD MAP FOR TELEHEALTH & PET HEALTH CARE Mark Cushing, JD Animal Policy Group, LLC, Knoxville, TN; Portland, OR; Washington, DC 2. Reach out to pet owners who do not have a veterinarian and provide convenient and familiar tools that introduce them to the path of veterinary care for their pets.

The veterinary profession in the United States decided to take telemedicine seriously in 2016.

The NAVC launched its Veterinary Innovation Council (VIC) a year ago, and numerous organizations stepped up to participate in its first project—a telehealth pilot. In April 2017, Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and the NAVC are collaborating to host the Veterinary Innovation Summit, which will include a robust examination of telemedicine and the VIC pilot results.

Also in 2016, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) convened telemedicine task force meetings, while Banfield Pet Hospital devoted a session of its September 2016 Pet Healthcare Industry Summit to telemedicine.

Most important, the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) devoted a full afternoon of its 2016 annual meeting to the topic of telemedicine. Under the leadership of new AAVSB Executive Director, Jim Penrod, state veterinary board regulators decided to proactively address telemedicine and explore its implications for veterinary medical care.

IT’S GOING TO HAPPEN Was there something in the water across the country? Or has the inevitable intersection of consumerfriendly electronics and human health care advances finally prompted veterinary medicine to jump in with both feet?

It’s no longer a question of whether veterinarians will embrace telemedicine technologies, but when…and how. The veterinary profession and its animal health partners are eager to get this right, so how do we make it happen, not

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just at conferences, but every day in practices across the US? What veterinary telemedicine needs is a regulatory road map that removes barriers to making telemedicine a reality. If telemedicine is a good idea for pet health care, then how do we make it happen?

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Telemedicine is more than a telephone call; it describes the use of the internet in veterinary medical practice.

The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) defines telemedicine as the practice of medicine using electronic communications, information technology, or other means between a licensee in one location and a patient in another location, with or without an intervening health care provider.

The American Telemedicine Association (ATA) uses a shorter version, defining telemedicine as a tool to facilitate health care delivery… to augment, and not replace, the clinical practice, judgment, and the expertise of the health care provider.

Insert veterinary before the words medicine or health care and you have veterinary telemedicine—a real-time electronic engagement among a veterinarian, pet owner, and pet.

DETERMINING THE DIRECTION To design a road map, we need to determine the direction of telemedicine in veterinary medicine.

Two broad goals are discussed most often: 1. Provide familiar electronic tools to existing clients, which allows communication between veterinarians and pet owners after visits or in lieu of visits, if the situation warrants.

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THE CHALLENGES WITH EXISTING CLIENTS ARE PRACTICAL When a veterinary–client–patient relationship (VCPR) exists, the veterinarian may communicate with the client in any way she chooses: in person or by telephone, internet, fax, Skype, carrier pigeon…you name it. All that matters, for regulatory purposes, particularly in the area of prescription medicines, is the veterinarian’s familiarity with the pet through a relatively recent in-person examination.

The challenge of telemedicine in this context is one of staffing, pricing, technology, and standard of care requirements spelled out in state veterinary practice acts.

Technology can be a key to client engagement, which is important because it drives client satisfaction and nurtures a long-term relationship between the veterinarian and pet owner.

NON-CLIENTS FACE REGULATORY WALLS If you’re brimming with enthusiasm and ready to reach out to new clients through telemedicine, here’s your dilemma: the current gale force of resistance asserting that a VCPR cannot be created through telemedicine.

Every jurisdiction except Connecticut, Alaska, and Washington, DC, spells out the requirements for a VCPR, which includes an in-person physical examination of the pet. This creates the following real-world challenge: • Between 40% and 50% of owners do not seek regular veterinary care for their beloved pets, despite every known tool of persuasion imploring them to visit veterinary clinics: ads, social media, neighbors, friends, the Partners for Healthy Pets initiative, etc. Therefore, the VCPR does not exist.

• These pet owners probably use smartphones and other electronic tools to manage much of their lives, including personal medical care. However, 48 states forbid a veterinarian from attempting to engage an

owner through electronic tools, or vice versa, without a VCPR in place.

•T he result? These pets receive no medical care.

In this scenario, the VCPR serves as a wall, rather than a door into the world of veterinary health care. Does this make sense?

HUMAN MEDICINE LEADS THE WAY At this point, you may be scratching your head, wondering how many lobbyists or lawyers are required to fix the problem. I’m pleased to say: very few, thanks to human medicine.

For 2 decades, human health care has been working through the exact issues facing veterinary telemedicine: •D octor–client relationship: Can this be formed via telemedicine?

Yes, in 47 states.

•M ulti-state licensure: Can the state boards still require that the treating doctor be licensed where the patient resides? Yes, although some states are more flexible.

• Online prescriptions: Does a doctor–client relationship still serve as a requirement? Yes. • I nformed consent: Can the state boards require that a client provide consent to being served through telemedicine? Yes, although some states do not require this.

•P rivacy/security: Can the state boards require that telemedicine adhere to the same requirements as in-person examinations and treatment?

Yes. •S tandards of care: Are they the same for telemedicine as for in-person examinations and treatment? Yes. The states have learned from each other, supplemented by resources from the FSMB and ATA. As a result, all 50 states have some level of advanced telemedicine laws and regulations and human health care treats telemedicine as a staple of health care delivery.

IF WE WANT IT, WE CAN HAVE IT All we need to do is follow the lead already set in place by human telemedicine and learn from its example. It really is that simple.

State veterinary medical boards can walk across their state capitols

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and consult sister state medical boards. The AAVSB can reach out to the FSMB and the ATA. These medical organizations have worked through the issues and created templates we can adapt with relatively little effort.

The veterinary profession in each state may partner with its state veterinary board, and nationally with the AAVSB, to initiate task forces and implement appropriate regulations in relatively short order, if we want to.

It’s not a matter of complexity, but of interest or willpower.

I can hear skeptics arguing that veterinary medicine is different because pets cannot speak for themselves. However, a large share of human health care involves pediatric patients who cannot articulate their conditions or symptoms.

Forty-seven states now allow a human doctor–patient relationship to be created through telemedicine.

Virtually every state resisted this when the process started decades ago, but experience, shared learning, and consumer familiarity with electronic technologies and devices has changed people’s minds. These boards turned a virtual doctorpatient relationship into a doorway for health care, not an impenetrable wall. Why can’t veterinary medicine do the same thing?

We do not need an identical solution or answer in each state.

Veterinary and human medicine both are governed at state levels, and practice acts vary from state to state. Fortunately, the AAVSB has taken the lead and can provide valuable resources. Other veterinary organizations, including the AVMA and state veterinary medical associations, can also push for a more modern, flexible view of the VCPR. CALL TO ACTION So let the discussions and arguments begin, and the negotiations. Grab the medical practice acts in each state and study the precedents for telemedicine. By this time next year, we could see 50 state veterinary medical associations in tandem with state veterinary boards offering practice act reforms to their state legislatures, opening the door for pet telemedicine.

Just think about the possibilities as we take advantage of existing models to make the process simple, streamlined and practical.

PETS BEHIND THE PEOPLE DANA VARBLE, DVM

Executive Director, Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians | ARAV.org Gurnee, IL

Meet Calhoun, Hannah, Abe, Hickok, Saffron, Phil and Jake — the pets (yes, seven: two dogs, a cat and four snakes) behind Dr. Dana Varble, executive director of NAVC’s Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians.

“I love a variety of animals,” she says. “Each of them has something very special to share that enriches my life.”

Did you have pets growing up?

Yes, but my mom wouldn’t allow snakes (and, yes, I asked!), so I had dogs, a cat and box turtles. I used to collect garter snakes, but they were not allowed inside.

How old are your pets today, and how old were they when they joined your pack?

My bloodhound, Calhoun, was rescued as a puppy. He is now 9. My lab/pit mix, Hannah, was rescued as a 2-year-old in 2016 and celebrated her third birthday with us. My cat, Abe, was acquired as a kitten, and he is now 17! My pied ball python, Hickok, and my albino ball python, Saffron, were acquired as yearling/hatchlings and are both now 4. My wild-type ball pythons were both acquired as rescue animals — Phil in 2001 (he’s 26 now) and Jake in 2003 (he’s 16).

Explain your pets’ names.

Calhoun is named after the main character in the comedy film Daltry Calhoun. Hannah is named for the Hootie and the CALHOUN Blowfish song “Hannah Jane.” Abe is named after the cat in The Aristocats. Phil and Jake were named by their previous owners. Hickok is named for Wild Bill Hickok because he’s a little wild, and Saffron is named for the spice because of her color!

Describe your relationship with your pets and what they bring to your life.

I love all my pets and consider each of them to be very special. But my relationship with Calhoun is especially important to me. When I served as a volunteer with the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office search-and-rescue posse in Arizona, Calhoun was my search-and-rescue partner. I needed his nose and skills to help me help others.

If they could “talk”, what would your pets tell you are their top three favorite things that they enjoy?

Cal and Hannah would both say, treats, toys, and lots of time swimming! We have a kiddie pool in the summer, and they are both great swimmers.

My snake Phil would say his three favorite things are all the black planter bucket that’s his house (absolutely true!). I transport him in it because he will crawl into it even if he is out!

Abe would say that sitting on people’s laps is the best thing ever. ALL. THE. TIME. Since you can talk, what are your favorite things that you enjoy about your pets?

I enjoy activities such as hiking and swimming with my dogs. Abe is affectionate and comforting. My snakes are comforting as well but they are also very fun to watch and interact with.

Do you bring your pets to work?

My home office is in the room my snakes’ enclosures are in. My dogs and cat join me there too, every day. I love having them there. However, Hannah seems to pick up her loudest toy whenever I’m on a phone call!

HICKOK

SAFFRON

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Kindred Biosciences Receives Early Approval of Effectiveness Technical Section from FDA for Mirataz New Animal Drug Application TM

Among the many “firsts” for this year’s Conference is our first official theme song. “Welcome Home NAVC,” performed by the NAVC’s Health & Wellness program coordinator Deborah Stone and co-written by Stone and NAVC President Melinda Merck, both celebrates the Conference and speaks to the emotional experience of veterinary professionals.

You can watch the video on NAVC’s YouTube channel and download the song from Amazon and iTunes. All proceeds will go toward the NAVC’s charitable efforts to grow awareness of health and wellness for veterinary professionals.

Here’s what Stone had to say about writing this piece for the NAVC. What inspired you to write this song?

Initially, I started writing it as a gift for Melinda in celebration of her serving as the NAVC’s President. I thought it’d be a very special touch to perform the song with my band, Home Bass (which includes the NAVC’s CEO Tom Bohn and CFO Gene O’Neill), at the President’s Reception, held after the Opening Ceremony.

I had the bass line in my head for months, and the remaining chord progression came together as I began writing the lyrics. I wanted the lyrics to represent what “welcome home” means to veterinary professionals as well as what it means to the NAVC, with its new conference location and tremendous offerings for the veterinary community.

The music was complete, and I had written almost all the lyrics, when I found a lump on my neck, which had to be surgically removed and left the right side of my face partially paralyzed. Shortly thereafter, I was diagnosed with tongue cancer, which required an aggressive seven-week treatment of chemotherapy and radiation. There were no guarantees I’d ever sing or speak with the same voice.

Knowing I didn’t have much time before treatment would start, I asked Melinda to help finish the lyrics and add what “welcome home” meant to her.

With the lyrics finally complete and treatment soon to begin, I rushed into the recording studio, overcoming the partial facial paralysis, to capture the song and then filmed the video with my veterinary team members.

How do you feel about getting to do something like this for an organization like the NAVC and raise money for a charitable effort?

I was thrilled that the NAVC was so supportive of this project and message.

There’s a bridge in the song that reminds veterinary professionals to take care of themselves. The NAVC’s support of the health and wellness of veterinary professionals adds yet another layer of gratitude for me.

What is your background with songwriting and performing?

I taught myself how to play the guitar when I was 16 years old. I loved learning how to play the hits of the day, but I was even more interested in writing about life and love. Over the years, friends and colleagues have asked me to write special songs for them, and that has given me much musical satisfaction, especially when I get their message right.

I’ve performed in a variety of clubs in Austin, Texas, with a few different bands. My most active band is the LaxaTones, and we mostly play animal awareness events. Everyone in the band either works in the animal health industry or is an animal lover. I am also in a band of veterinary professionals called the No-Lo Prophets, in addition to Home Bass.

How fun is it to share this song with the crowd here at the Conference?

Sharing the song with veterinary professionals at the conference was a once in a lifetime experience. I look forward to more opportunities with the NAVC to help make a difference in this amazing profession.

“Welcome Home” is available for download on Amazon and iTunes: Amazon: http://a.co/9olZXxB iTunes: http://apple.co/2j7hqJD

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Kindred Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: KIN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on saving and improving the lives of pets, today announced it has received a technical section complete letter for effectiveness from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine for Mirataz™ (mirtazapine transdermal ointment) approving the technical section.

KindredBio has a rich pipeline of innovative drugs and biologics made for the animal companion, the owner, and the veterinarian. Visit booth 409 for more information on KindredBio and our exciting pipeline.

For information please visit: www.kindredbio.com/news/

GEAR UP WITH UNIQUE NAVC ITEMS

From t-shirts to coffee mugs, remember your NAVC Experience with souvenirs from our signature artist Jim Wilson.

Visit us outside NAVC Registration Desk, in the Hall D2 Foyer.