Keystone Veterinarian Fall 2024 by Hoffmann Publishing Group

Five Ways Can Help Veterinarians

Pre-operative anesthesia consults

Advice on peri-anesthetic management

Advanced ultrasound-guided locoregional analgesia techniques

Perioperative neuromuscular function monitoring

In-house post-operative pain management

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President: Rhett Proctor, DMV

President-Elect: Andrea Honigmann, DVM

Vice President: Jeffrey Dill, DVM

Past-President: Thomas Munkittrick, MS,

21 A Grain of Truth: Half a Pup and a Dixie Cup: My Entrance Examinations into the World of Veterinary Medicines

24 Keystone Veterinary Conference Hall of Fame Awards Recipients

27 AVMA President-Elect 2024-2025: Dr. Michael Bailey

28 PVMA 2024 – 2025 Leadership

31 Why Every Veterinarian Practice Needs Cyber Insurance

34 Classified Ads

38 In Memoriam: Dr. Lawrence “Larry” William Samples

Dr. Bruce A. Bell

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Western Region Trustee: Erin Johnson, DVM

Metro Philadelphia Region Trustee: Jill Stetz, VMD

North Central Region Trustee: Andrea Carr, DVM

South Central Region Trustee: Gary Brummel, DVM

Equine Veterinarian At-Large: James Holt, VMD

Production Animal Veterinarian At-Large: Robert Cloninger, VMD

Academic Veterinarian At-Large: Alessandro Lamacchia, VMD

Certified Veterinary Technician At-Large: Ashley Mase, CVT

AVMA Delegate: Tina Dougherty, VMD

AVMA Alternate Delegate: Kate Boatright, VMD

Student At-Large: Christian Nase

Message from the President

Rhett Proctor, DVM President, Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association

PVMA Members,

Hello, I am Rhett Proctor and it is my pleasure to serve as the President of the PVMA for 20242025. The past few years have seen their fair share of ups and downs, and the PVMA was no different. I am happy to report that the PVMA finds itself in a much better position financially and managerially than we have been in the last few years.

With the aid of technology and the ability of our management team to work virtually, the PVMA found itself no longer in need of the home office, and it was subsequently sold. So where does all this bring us? Well, we have an organization that has a sound management team, a diligent Board of Trustees, and a sound financial statement. What we lack is more volunteers, more involvement from our membership.

See, even with all the technology that there is to offer, without the human element to guide the organization, it will fail. Much like the family pet or the farmer’s cow we see in our practices every day, we can have all the fancy diagnostics and latest technology to tell us everything we need to know about that animal, but without putting our hands on that animal, without seeing it with our own eyes and how it responds, we may miss a very important part of the diagnosis. The same is true with the PVMA; without people to fill all the needed roles and positions, all the technology in the world will not keep the organization running.

Technology is a great tool. It can truly make our lives easier (though sometimes I think we would all argue the opposite), but it still takes human contact, human interaction, human interpretation to make all that technology effective. So, in the year to come please think about getting involved in the PVMA and help us help you.

Rhett Proctor, DVM PVMA President

Five Ways Can Help Veterinarians

Since 2017, artificial intelligence (AI) has advanced significantly, offering solutions to some of the biggest challenges in veterinary medicine, including staff shortages, burnout, and increasing patient loads—challenges that the pandemic has exacerbated. AI can help alleviate these pressures by enhancing efficiency and improving care quality.

What is AI?

AI, often associated with machine learning (ML), can be broadly classified into two main categories: Predictive AI (PredAI) and Generative AI (GenAI). Predictive AI analyzes historical data to make predictions, such as identifying if an animal might be at risk for certain diseases based on medical records. Generative AI, on the other hand, creates content—text, images, or other outputs—based on a given prompt. However, GenAI can sometimes generate inaccurate results, known as “hallucinations” You can read more about hallucination types at https://tinyurl.com/ jllaihallucination.¹

While no GenAI models are trained explicitly for veterinary medicine, their potential in this field is promising. However, veterinarians must carefully review AI outputs to ensure accuracy before implementing them into their practices. With this understanding of AI, here are five ways it can benefit veterinary practices.

1. Automating Client Communication

Veterinarians spend a considerable amount of time communicating with pet owners, whether for follow-ups, appointment reminders, or answering routine care-related questions. Generative AI can significantly reduce the time spent on these tasks by drafting automated responses or emails. AI chatbots and messaging systems can handle common client inquiries, helping to reduce the administrative burden on staff.²

Businesses using AI for customer service have seen a 70% reduction in workload,³ while email automation has been shown to increase productivity by over 14%.⁴ This means veterinary staff can focus more on patient care and less on administrative duties. Additionally, AI can help craft personalized email responses, adjusting tone and language based on the intended recipient. However, reviewing all AI-generated content is essential to ensure it aligns with the clinic’s standards and is factually accurate.

2. Task Management and Workflow Optimization

Veterinary teams are overburdened with tasks, from managing appointments to coordinating staff schedules and ensuring

continued on page 8 >

Five Ways AI Can Help Veterinarians

continued from page 6

patient follow-ups. AI-powered task management platforms such as Todoist or Asana can streamline these operations. These tools analyze clinic data and recommend optimal administrative work5 or suggest when inventory needs to be counted or reevaluated.

Research shows that companies using AI to optimize workflows experience a 40% improvement in operational efficiency.6 For veterinary clinics, this increased efficiency can translate into smoother operations and improved client service while reducing the staff workload.

3. Telemedicine and Meeting Summaries

During meetings or telemedicine consultations, it can be difficult to participate actively while also taking notes. Generative AI tools like Otter.ai and Fireflies automatically transcribe discussions and generate meeting summaries, making tracking key points and follow-up tasks easier.

Users of AI-powered assistants like Microsoft’s CoPilot report a 70% increase in productivity and an improvement in the quality of their work.7 However, it’s crucial to verify these AI-generated summaries for accuracy, as misattributions or misunderstandings can occur. For telemedicine, it’s also necessary to consider privacy laws and ensure informed consent before using AI to record or summarize consultations. Please consult legal counsel before implementing these technologies. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) must be protected, and permission to record must be explicit and accounted for to limit liability.

4. Enhancing Continuing Education and Training

Generative AI can revolutionize continuing education for veterinarians by personalizing training and making it more interactive. AI-powered platforms can create customized learning modules, tailoring content to individual learning styles and needs. These tools can also rephrase complex information or provide additional explanations, helping veterinarians and their staff retain new information more effectively.8-10

Future continuing education (CE) platforms like VetBloom and VETgirl may integrate AI to create personalized learning experiences. Veterinarians could use AI-generated quizzes or simulations based on real-world cases to make ongoing training more engaging and relevant.

5. Diagnostic Assistance in Veterinary Workflow

AI is making significant strides in assisting veterinarians with diagnostics. One promising application is voice-to-medical record technology, which allows veterinarians to dictate medical notes that AI then summarizes into a specific note format (like a Physical Exam or SOAP note). The same technology can also convert complex medical discharge summaries into clientfriendly language.11

While this technology is exciting, it is still in its infancy, and clinicians should be cautious of over-reliance on it. Some tools like Nuance Dragon Medical and Talkatoo have been in use for years. GenAI, however, is prone to inaccuracies, with some studies showing that GenAI can alter or omit critical details between 30-60% of the time when generating summaries.12 In reviewing the literature, the hallucination rate can be as high as 90%.13 This does not mean GenAI technology is faulty or not valid, but the generated content must be carefully reviewed for accuracy to ensure that critical medical information is not misrepresented.

Conclusion

While AI in veterinary practices is not without its limitations, it offers significant benefits in client communication, task management, diagnostics, and continuing education. By incorporating both Predictive and Generative AI, veterinary clinics can reduce administrative burdens, improve operational efficiency, and provide better care for their patients. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant about the accuracy of AI-generated outputs and to ensure privacy and ethical standards are upheld when integrating these technologies into everyday practice.

References

1. Lustgarten J. Defining LLM Hallucination Types in Medicine (Human and Veterinary). Published July 3, 2024. Available at https://tinyurl. com/jllaihallucination.

2. Edelman, David and Abraham, Mark (2022). “Customer Experience in the Age of AI.” Harvard Business Review

3. McKinsey & Company. (2023). “The next frontier of customer engagement: AI-enabled customer service.”

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4. Chatnode.ai (2023). “Reducing Customer Service Workload Using AI: Effective Strategies”

5. Brynjolfsson, et al. (2023) “Generate AI at Work” National Bureau of Economic Research

6. Dell'Acqua, F, e. al. (2023) “Navigating the Jagged Technological Frontier: Field Experimental Evidence of the Effects of AI on Knowledge Worker Productivity and Quality” Harvard Business School Technology & Operations Mgt. Unit Working Paper

7. Microsoft (2023). “What Can Copilot’s Earliest Users Teach Us About Generative AI at Work?”

8. Almansour, M, et al. (2024). Generative artificial intelligence and the personalization of health professional education: A narrative review. Medicine (Baltimore)

9. Stadler M, et. al. (2024). Crafting medical MCQs with generative AI: A how-to guide on leveraging ChatGPT. GMS J Med Educ

10. Chu, CP (2024). ChatGPT in veterinary medicine: a practical guidance of generative artificial intelligence in clinics, education, and research. Front Vet Sci.

11. Zaretsky, J, et al. (2023). Generative Artificial Intelligence to Transform Inpatient Discharge Summaries to Patient-Friendly Language and Format. JAMA Network Open

12. Aljamaan, F, et al. (2024). Reference Hallucination Score for Medical Artificial Intelligence Chatbots: Development and Usability Study. JMIR Med Inform.

13. Chelli, M, et al. (2024). Hallucination Rates and Reference Accuracy of ChatGPT and Bard for Systematic Reviews: Comparative Analysis. J Med Internet Res

About the Author: Dr. Jonathan L. Lustgarten, MS, PhD, VMD, CSPO, is the Director of AI and Machine Learning and Product Manager at Mars Veterinary Health. He holds a Master of Science (MS) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biomedical Informatics from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, as well as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (VMD) from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Lustgarten leads the development and evaluation of both predictive and generative AI systems at Mars Veterinary Health, alongside creating and curating structured enterprise medical data to support clinical practice workflow and analytics. He was president of the Association for Veterinary Informatics (AVI), which focuses on bringing industry, academia, and practitioners together to improve the use of AI and Data in veterinary medicine. He is passionate about advancing AI’s ethical and transparent use to enhance the quality of veterinary care and improve patient outcomes.

Humane Euthanasia Techniques for Companion Animals: Alternatives to Peripheral IV Injections

What is Euthanasia?

Euthanasia, derived from the Greek words “eu” (good) and “thanatos” (death), means “good death.” In veterinary practice, euthanasia refers to the process of inducing death in a manner that is painless and minimally stressful to the animal. The goal is to ensure that the animal passes away peacefully, without fear or suffering. None of us become veterinary professionals to euthanize animals, but most will have to do so at some point, if not many times, throughout our careers.

Euthanasia techniques have evolved significantly, based on advances in veterinary medicine, ethical considerations, and societal values. The AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals reflects the latest scientific understanding and ethical practices, ensuring that companion animals’ end of life care is as humane and stress-free as possible (see box 1).1

Sedation and Anesthesia

Sedation and anesthesia are crucial components of the euthanasia process. Sedation involves administering drugs to calm the animal and reduce anxiety, while anesthesia induces a deeper state of unconsciousness and insensitivity to pain. Both are used to ensure the animal is comfortable and does not experience distress during euthanasia.

At a minimum, it is recommended to start with sedation in the exam room to prevent the need to remove the pet from their family for intravenous catheter placement, something which most families find distressing.2

There are many protocols that can be used for sedation and anesthesia. Many of these require the use of controlled substances. Veterinarians must follow all federal and state laws and regulations when dealing with these drugs.

Each patient should be assessed

By Deborah Aronson, VMD, CVMA, CPEV

individually in order to select a protocol based on the animal’s size, species, and health condition. For example, in needlesensitive patients, I often start with oral sedatives and then follow with injectable anesthesia. It is outside the scope of this article to detail specifics, but there are many combinations available (see box 2). Animals presenting for behavioral euthanasia typically require much higher doses of sedatives and anesthetics, to ensure they remain calm and do not experience fear or aggression during the euthanasia process.3

Intra-organ Techniques

While euthanasia has traditionally been performed using intravenous administration of pentobarbital-based euthanasia solutions, intra-organ techniques provide effective methods of euthanasia. These techniques involve injecting pentobarbital-based euthanasia solutions directly into specific organs and are especially effective in dehydrated patients or those with peripheral edema, where IV access is challenging. Here, we detail how to perform intrarenal, intrahepatic, intracardiac, and intraperitoneal injections, including dosing of euthanasia solution and time to death (TTD). Keep in mind an unconscious level of anesthesia is required for these techniques to be considered humane.

Intrarenal

Figure 7— Site for administration of intrarenal injection in the dog. Intrarenal is appropriate only in anesthetized or unconscious animals.

Intrarenal injections involve administering the euthanasia solution directly into the kidneys, which have a rich vascular supply. This method is particularly useful in cats.

● Preparation:

○ Ensure the animal is adequately anesthetized.

○ Position the animal in lateral recumbency.

● Technique:

○ Locate the kidney by palpation, typically found just caudal to the last rib and ventral to the spine, and stabilize it with your non-dominant hand.

○ Insert a 22-25 gauge needle perpendicularly to the skin at the point where the kidney is palpated.

○ Advance the needle until you feel it enter the kidney. There may be a slight resistance followed by a “give” as the needle penetrates the renal capsule.

○ Administer the euthanasia solution slowly and steadily. You may feel the kidney “swell” very slightly.

● Considerations:

○ Ensure the solution is injected into the kidney and not surrounding tissues as that will greatly increase TTD.

○ TTD is typically within 1-5 minutes.

○ Dose: 3 ml/10 lb.

Intrahepatic/Intrasplenic

Figure 6— Site for administration of intrahepatic and intrasplenic injections in the dog.

In this figure, the liver is being injected; the spleen is depicted in red caudal to the liver and stomach. Intrahepatic and intrasplenic injections are appropriate only in unconscious or anesthetized animals with the exception of intrahepatic injections in cats as discussed in the text.

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Intrahepatic/intrasplenic injections are administered directly into the liver or spleen, which have rich vascular supplies.

● Preparation:

○ Ensure the animal is adequately anesthetized.

○ Position the animal in dorsal or lateral recumbency.

● Technique:

○ Identify the xyphoid process.

○ Insert a long (cats and small dogs: 1 ½ inch, larger dogs up to 4 inch) 2225 gauge needle cranially and dorsally towards the liver starting just to the left or right of the xyphoid process.

○ Administer the euthanasia solution slowly and redirect the needle several times.

● Considerations:

○ Care should be taken to avoid puncturing the diaphragm or other surrounding structures as that can greatly increase TTD.

○ TTD is generally within 10 minutes – if it is taking longer, consider administering additional euthanasia solution.

○ Dose: 3 ml/10 lb.

Figure 5— Site for administration of intracardiac injection in the cat. Intracardiac injection is appropriate only in unconscious of anesthetized animals.

Intracardiac injections ensure a rapid onset of death because the heart is a blood vessel surrounded by muscle.

● Preparation:

○ Ensure the animal is adequately anesthetized.

○ Position the animal in lateral or dorsal recumbency.

● Technique:

○ Locate the heart by palpation or auscultation, found in the thoracic cavity between the third and sixth ribs.

○ Insert a 22-25 gauge needle perpendicularly to the chest wall, just behind the point of the elbow (in lateral recumbency) or between the second and third ribs (in dorsal recumbency). In larger dogs it may be helpful to introduce the needle from

Box 1: AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals

These AVMA Guidelines, last updated in 2020, provide detailed recommendations for euthanizing companion animals, emphasizing the need for careful planning, compassionate handling, and the use of appropriate techniques to minimize distress. Key steps include:

● Pre-euthanasia Assessment: Evaluating the animal’s condition, confirming the decision for euthanasia, and discussing the process with the pet owner.

● Sedation and Anesthesia: Administering sedatives or anesthetics to ensure the animal is calm and pain-free before euthanasia.

● Euthanasia Techniques: Utilizing methods that are quick and effective, and cause minimal discomfort.

https://www.avma.org/ resources-tools/avma-policies/ avma-guidelineseuthanasia-animals

Intracardiac

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Humane Euthanasia Techniques for Companion Animals, Discussing

Alternatives to Peripheral IV Injections

continued from page 11

Box 2: Example Sedation and Anesthesia Protocols

Dr. Aronson induces unconscious anesthesia without IV access in the home. Example anesthesia protocols from her practice include:

For any size dog:

• Pre-visit: For anxious dogs, the “Chill” Protocol of PO gabapentin, melatonin, and oral transmucosal (OTM) acepromazine4 or gabapentin + trazodone.

• Dormosedan OTM can also be used for sedation at time of visit.

the recumbent side, as gravity will bring the heart closer to the body wall.

○ Advance the needle until you feel it penetrate the heart muscle. This can be confirmed by aspirating blood and/ or palpating rhythmic movement in the syringe.

○ Administer the euthanasia solution steadily.

● Considerations:

○ The TTD is almost immediate, as the solution is delivered directly into the heart, rapidly stopping cardiac function.

○ The IV dose of 1 ml/10 lbs. of euthanasia solution is appropriate.

Intraperitoneal

While this is not technically an intraorgan technique, the euthanasia solution will be taken up by the omentum’s rich vascular supply. There is some controversy over this technique in conscious animals, therefore full anesthesia is recommended. Since the TTD is 30 minutes or more, this technique is less than ideal in a clinical situation.

Sensitivity for Owners

Gaining comfort with pre-euthanasia sedation and anesthesia, as well as with intra-organ techniques for drug administration, can help decrease the stress of these appointments. However, these techniques may be unfamiliar and potentially uncomfortable for owners. Communication therefore requires sensitivity and compassion.

• Acepromazine + Butorphanol SQ for sedation.

• Add in Ketamine + Midazolam + Xylazine SQ or IM to progress to anesthesia.

For a cat/small dog:

• Telazol reconstituted with Acepromazine + Butorphanol SQ or IM.

• Dexmedetomidine + Ketamine + Butorphanol SQ or IM.

• Alfaxalone IM.

Needle-sensitive patients:

• Mix injectables with sterile saline, use a small (25-27g) needle, inject slowly.

gentle language can help with this. Some of the phrases I use in practice include:

● “Our goal is to ensure your pet does not experience any discomfort during this procedure.”

● “I’m going to use a specialized technique to administer the medication to an internal blood supply, to allow for a peaceful and painless passing.”

I am also very aware of how I position the patient and how much of the procedure the owner can see. I often cover the patient with a blanket or hide the needle in the palm of my hand to help shield the owners from watching this type of administration. Additionally, using an extension set between the needle and syringe allows for greater discretion, particularly with the IC technique that may need a perpendicular approach for the needle.

Conclusion

Intra-organ euthanasia techniques provide veterinarians with alternative methods to ensure humane and effective euthanasia when intravenous access is not possible. Each method requires careful preparation, precise execution, and a thorough understanding of the anatomical landmarks. By adhering to the AVMA Guidelines for Euthanasia, veterinary professionals can ensure that companion animal euthanasia is performed with the utmost care and compassion, maintaining the dignity and well-being of the animals in your care, and decreasing stress for the whole team.

• Anesthetics (acepromazine, butorphanol, telazol, even euthanasia solution) can also be given OTM and then followed with injections.

Note on propofol:

• Many clinics place intravenous catheters and then administer propofol prior to euthanasia solution. While this is certainly appropriate, administering sedation prior to placing the IVC helps decrease the distress of this procedure.

Additional sedation protocols are available through Lap of Love (https://info.lapoflove.com/protocol).5

References

1. AVMA Panel on Euthanasia, and AVMA Staff Consultants. “AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals: 2020 Edition.” American Veterinary Medical Association, 2020, https://www.avma.org/sites/ default/files/2020-02/Guidelines-on-Euthanasia-2020. pdf.

2. Cooney, Kathy, and Lori Kogan. “How Pet Owners Define a "Good Death."” dvm360 2022;53(8):12. https://www.dvm360.com/view/how-pet-ownersdefine-a-good-death-.

3. Foote, Sally. “Compassionate Behavioral Euthanasia.” Compassionate Behavioral Euthanasia, 2024, https://www.drsallyjfoote.com/shop/ webinar/vet-professional/compassionate-behavioreuthanasia-how-to-assess-be-safe-low-stress-andsupport-clients-and-staff/.

4. Costa RS, Karas AZ, Borns-Weil S. Chill protocol to manage aggressive and fearful dogs. Clin Brief. 2019;2:63–65 https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/ article/chill-protocol-manage-aggressive-fearful-dogs. 5. Lap of Love. “Lap of Love Pre-euthanasia protocols for cats and dogs.” Lap of Love, https://info.lapoflove. com/protocol.

6. Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy (CAETA) https://caetainternational.com/

About the Author: Deborah Aronson, VMD CVMA CPEV, is the founder of an in-home clinical practice, Main Line Veterinary Integrative Practice (Main Line VIP), focused on palliative, hospice, and end of life care for companion animals outside of Philadelphia. Dr. Aronson is an active member of the IAAHPC (International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care), a peer supporter with NOMV (Not One More Vet) and a trained interfaith chaplain through Main Line Health. She is an international speaker and teacher for veterinary professionals on ethical end of life care for animals, including compassionate communication, emotional resilience, and humane euthanasia protocols, and is available for in-house staff training.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/daronsonvmd/

Clear,

Reprinted with permission from AVMA Trust. Discover the AVMA Trust here: https://pages.avmaplit.com/discover-your-trust/

professional liability

Do’s and Don’ts of Medical Recordkeeping

The purpose of patient medical records is to document the patient condition and medical care. Thorough medical records are crucial in defense of a veterinary malpractice claim and a license/board complaint. Appropriate documentation is needed to support that the treatment met the standard of care.

Do’s and Don’ts of Medical Recordkeeping

Medical Recordkeeping Do’s

In this issue, we will present the do’s and don’ts of medical recordkeeping, provide helpful advice from our malpractice carrier on what should and should not be included in the medical record and client communication log, and share claim stories related to medical recordkeeping.

DO regularly check your state veterinary practice act/rules for the medical recordkeeping requirements. State requirements vary on items such as what is required to be in the medical records, and how many years medical records must be kept. Failure to keep medical records according to state law can result in discipline if a license complaint is made against a veterinarian.

DO keep complete medical records where all entries are legible and signed or initialed. Include signed consent forms, treatment logs, and anesthetic and surgery reports.

DO write clearly and concisely so that the record can be easily understood.

DO document all medical and surgical care provided to the patient in a timely fashion. If a late entry is required, make an addendum to the record dated the day you make it.

DO document all recommendations and treatment plans and note if treatments or referrals are declined.

DO follow all state requirements regarding patient confidentiality. Only release medical records if you receive a request from the client/owner or from your state board.

DO consider whether medical records software will help improve your practice’s recordkeeping.

of Medical Recordkeeping

continued from page 13

Medical Recordkeeping Don’ts

DO NOT include the following items in the medical record: notes that a claim has been reported; any communication with AVMA PLIT, your insurance carrier, or your attorney about an incident or claim; or any communications with the state veterinary board or a board investigator.

DO NOT make any disparaging statements about any client/ animal owner. Keep all statements about the client factual.

DO NOT discuss your claim or lawsuit in public or on any websites or social media platforms, including any sites or groups that are considered “private” or related to the veterinary profession. Your statements may be discoverable in a lawsuit and be used against you.

Keep a Separate File for Claim-Related Materials

Any materials related to a claim or litigation should be kept in a separate file. The file should be marked with name of the owner/client. That file can include notes, narratives, case assessments, social media comments, emails, or correspondence. Access to this file should be limited and controlled. If more than one veterinarian is involved in the claim, separate files should be maintained for each. Placing this information in the medical record or sharing it with a third party may waive any privilege or confidentiality, making it subject to disclosure in litigation or a board complaint. The people who can access the file without waiving privilege or confidentiality can vary by state but typically include the veterinarian reporting the claim, a dedicated practice “risk manager” (if the practice has such an role), your legal counsel, and appropriate insurance representatives.

Client Communications Notes/Log

If your practice maintains a “Client Communication” file or log separate from the patient’s medical records, the following items should be kept in it:

• Notes about the client threatening to sue or filing a suit

• Notes about verbal and physical threats/assaults by a client

• Notes about calling the police or filing a police report

It is beneficial to document what the client is threatening and/ or the client’s behavior. Be factual in what is documented in the medical records and client communication log. Do not add opinion or commentary about the client or their behavior. These suggestions also apply to writing emails or text messages.

Does the client communication file/log have to be provided if a client requests the medical records?

It depends on what your state’s practice act, statute, or administrative rule says. However, you should presume that the client communication log will be discoverable by the board during a board complaint or if a lawsuit is filed. In other words, expect your client will see what is documented in the client communication log.

Medical Recordkeeping Closed Claims

Canine Left Untreated Due to Lack of Monitoring during Boarding

A 14-year-old, diabetic Schnauzer was presented to Dr. A for medical boarding. Upon arrival, Dr. A performed a physical exam and confirmed the patient’s insulin dosing. During the patient’s stay, the boarding staff did not alert Dr. A to any issues. When the owners picked up the patient 10 days later, they were upset that many of the patient’s pre-portioned baggies of food remained and questioned whether the patient was eating appropriately. Dr. A’s clinic did not keep daily logs of food intake for boarding patients. However, the boarding staff reported that the patient did not eat well certain days and was not given insulin when it did not eat. Early the next morning, the patient was presented to an ER for lethargy and urinary accidents in the home. The patient was found to have lost seven pounds while being boarded, had elevated blood glucose, was diagnosed with a UTI, and needed hospitalization for dehydration. The owners alleged Dr. A did not appropriately monitor the patient during boarding and left the animal untreated. Dr. A agreed to settle the claim, and the insurance carrier reimbursed the owner for the subsequent ER fees. Do’s and Don’ts

When boarding animals – especially those with medical conditions – always document eliminations, appetite, any medications being administered, weight checks, and any problems or treatment that occur. These steps are especially important when multiple staff members provide care each day.

Anesthesia Log Supports Standard of Care

A two-year-old Boxer was presented to Dr. B for an abdominal exploratory procedure after ingesting a rubber toy. The animal had no known comorbidities. The pre-anesthetic exam and lab work were within normal limits. Dr. B performed the surgery without complication and removed the foreign body through a single gastrotomy. The dog was placed in a recovery cage and was still intubated when it went into cardiac arrest. Unfortunately, CPR was unsuccessful. After a necropsy revealed no underlying cause of death, Dr. B determined the patient likely had an adverse reaction to the anesthetic.

The owners were understandably upset and demanded reimbursement for the loss of the dog. They threatened legal action, claiming the patient was not adequately monitored and the veterinary team’s negligence contributed to its death. Dr. B did not immediately reimburse the owners and did contact their malpractice insurance carrier about a potential claim. Upon review of the anesthesia report, the insurance carrier found the patient had been closely monitored throughout the procedure and, when the patient’s vitals fluctuated, the staff member responded appropriately with adjustments. Based on the anesthesia log, they determined that the standard of care had been met and issued a “denial of liability” letter to the owner, explaining the results of the independent review. Although still saddened over the loss of their Boxer, the owners did not pursue the claim and did not file suit.

professional liability

Inside this issue:

Medical Recordkeeping Do's

Medical Recordkeeping Don'ts

Client Communication Notes Closed Claims

Do’s and Don’ts of Medical Recordkeeping

The following week, the patient was diagnosed with neoplasia through cytology at another clinic. The co-owner of the patient (who was not present for the visit) alleged Dr. C misdiagnosed the patient and demanded reimbursement for follow-up care. When presented with the medical record stating cytology was recommended as the next step and neoplasia was a possibility, the owner filed a board complaint alleging Dr. C altered the medical record after the complaint was made. The record was time-stamped, clearly showing it had been completed at the time of the visit. The board investigator threw the claim out based on the record.

Document all medical and surgical care on the day it occurs – or within 48 hours. If a late entry is required, make an addendum to the record and date the entry. Medical records that appear to have been completed after receiving a client complaint may be less effective in defending against that complaint.

Perianesthetic deaths are an inherent risk of many procedures. Keeping a log that demonstrates appropriate monitoring is crucial to supporting the standard of care when such deaths occur. It is also a good idea to recommend a necropsy when an unexpected death occurs.

Time-stamped Record Overrides Board Complaint

An 11-year-old DSH was presented to Dr. C for a swollen toe. Upon exam, the toe was erythematous and uncomfortable with manipulation. Dr. C recommended radiographs, which showed soft-tissue swelling with no boney involvement and no visible fractures. Out of concern for an abscess, Dr. C also performed an FNA, which produced no fluid. Dr. C advised the owner of potential differential diagnoses, including neoplasia, trauma, or infection. Dr. C then presented the owner with the option to submit FNA samples for cytology or to treat the symptoms and return for cytology if they did not improve. Dr. C documented the differential diagnoses and treatment options in the medical record. The owner elected for symptomatic treatment, and the patient went home on anti-inflammatories and antibiotics.

Additional Resources:

1. Medical Records & the Importance of Documentation

2. The Importance of Medical Recordkeeping

3. Confidentiality of veterinary patient records

4. Veterinary Medical Records & the Importance of Licensing Boards for Veterinary Medicine

5. The Importance of Medical Records with Dr. Kara Escutia

The AI Revolution in Veterinary Marketing: Unleashing Data-Driven Strategies

By Chris Tremblay

In the ever-evolving landscape of veterinary care, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize the way veterinarians approach marketing and client outreach. As data becomes the new currency, AI-driven technologies offer unprecedented opportunities to harness the power of information, delivering personalized experiences and strengthening the bond between vets and pet owners. Personalization drives performance and better customer outcomes. Companies that grow faster drive 40% more of their revenue from personalization than their slower-growing counterparts.1 This paradigm shift promises to redefine the dynamic field of veterinary marketing, ushering in a new era of efficiency, precision, and client-centric strategies.

The Predictive Power of AI: Anticipating Pet Health Trends

One of the most transformative aspects of AI in veterinary marketing lies in its ability to process and analyze vast volumes of patient data. By leveraging advanced algorithms and machine learning models, veterinarians can uncover valuable insights into pet health trends, enabling them to stay ahead of the curve.

“AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach preventive care,” remarks Dr. Sarah Thompson of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). "By identifying patterns and risk factors, we can tailor our marketing efforts to educate pet owners on proactive measures, ultimately improving the well-being of our furry companions."

Predictive analytics empowers veterinarians to forecast changes in pet health, allowing them to adapt their marketing strategies accordingly. For instance, if AI models detect an uptick in a specific condition within a geographic region, veterinarians

can promptly launch targeted campaigns to raise awareness and promote preventive measures. This proactive approach not only strengthens the veterinarian-client relationship but also positions practices as trusted authorities in pet care. According to Vet-ct.com only 10% stating they felt they had a comprehensive understanding of AI.2

The Power of Natural Language Processing: Enhancing Client Engagement

In the digital age, effective communication is paramount, and AI-powered natural language processing (NLP) technologies offer a game-changing solution for veterinary practices. Automated chatbots equipped with NLP capabilities can engage with clients in real-time, addressing inquiries, scheduling appointments, and providing personalized advice. This seamless interaction not only enhances the client experience but also frees up valuable time for veterinary staff to focus on core responsibilities. According to the Forbes Advisor survey, 73% of businesses use or plan to use AI-powered chatbots for instant messaging. Moreover, 61% of companies use AI to optimize emails, while 55% deploy AI for personalized services, such as product recommendations.3

“Our virtual assistant has transformed the way we interact with clients,” shares Dr. Michael Roberts, a veterinarian from Pittsburgh. “By leveraging NLP, we can respond promptly to common questions, ensuring pet owners feel supported and valued throughout their journey with us.” This level of responsiveness and attention to detail can foster trust and loyalty, ultimately strengthening the practice’s reputation and driving long-term success.

Personalized Treatment Recommendations: The

Key to Client Satisfaction

AI’s ability to process and interpret complex data sets extends beyond marketing applications. In the realm of veterinary care, AI-driven technologies can analyze an individual pet’s medical history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions to provide personalized treatment recommendations. By leveraging this data-driven approach, veterinarians can offer tailored solutions that resonate with pet owners, enhancing client satisfaction and reinforcing the practice’s commitment to exceptional care. According to a survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 72% of pet owners indicate a preference for personalized care recommendations tailored to their pet’s unique needs.4

“ AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach veterinary care,” states Dr. Emily Davis, a renowned veterinarian and author. “ By combining our expertise with the power of data analysis, we can deliver truly personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each pet, fostering a deeper connection with their owners.”

Embracing AI in Veterinary Marketing: A Competitive Advantage

In the competitive landscape of veterinary services, practices that embrace AI-driven marketing strategies will undoubtedly gain a significant advantage. By harnessing the power of data, predictive analytics, and personalized client interactions, veterinarians can position themselves as industry leaders, offering cutting-edge solutions that resonate with modern pet owners. A report by Gartner suggests that ”by 2025, 30% of outbound marketing messages from large organizations will be synthetically generated. AI, but specifically generative AI, has the power to augment, accelerate and create new content, and transform how marketing operates.5”

However, it is crucial to strike a balance between technology and the human touch. While AI can streamline processes and enhance efficiency, the compassionate and personalized approach that defines veterinary care must remain at the forefront. By seamlessly integrating AI into their marketing efforts, veterinarians can unlock a world of opportunities, strengthening client relationships, improving pet health outcomes, and cementing their practices as beacons of innovation and excellence. Facebook Business states: Personalization has been proven to drive up to a 15% increase in revenue and 10-30% in marketing spend efficiency.6

As the veterinary industry continues to evolve, those who embrace the transformative potential of AI will be wellpositioned to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of pet care. The integration of AI into veterinary marketing is not merely a technological advancement but a strategic imperative that promises to redefine the way veterinarians connect with pet owners, providing a more personalized, data-driven, and effective approach to promoting animal well-being.

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References

1. Arora N, Ensslen D, FiedlerL, et al. The value of getting personalization right—or wrong—is multiplying. Published November 21, 2021. Available at https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/growth-marketingand-sales/our-insights/the-value-of-getting-personalization-right-orwrong-is-multiplying.

2. VetCT Artificial Intelligence in Veterinary Medicine. Available at https://5345458.hs-sites.com/vetct-ai-white-paper.

3. Haan K. How Businesses Are Using Artificial Intelligence In 2024. Forbes.com. Last updated April 24, 2023. Available at: https://www. forbes.com/advisor/business/software/ai-in-business/.

4. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). US Pet Ownership Statistics. Sourced from AVMA 2022 Pet Ownership and Demographic Sourcebook. Available at: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/ reports-statistics/us-pet-ownership-statistics.

5. Gartner. AI in Marketing: The Future of Smart Marketing. Available at: https://www.gartner.com/en/marketing/topics/ai-in-marketing.

6. Facebook Business. Personalization: Opportunities, Pitfalls and How To Get it Right. Published January 31, 2020. Available at: https://www. facebook.com/business/news/personalization-opportunities-pitfallsand-how-to-get-it-right.

About the Author: Chris Tremblay is a passionate Brand and Marketing Strategist with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to helping businesses thrive. As the founder of PracticeXperts.com, he combines his love for technology with innovative marketing to help practice management leverage AI and digital tools that assist Veterinary practices with data driven, profit optimized strategy execution.

AVMA House of Delegates 2024 Summer Meeting

By Christina Dougherty, VMD, Delegate Kate Boatright, VMD, Alternate Delegate

The AVMA House of Delegates met in Austin, TX on June 2021. All 50 states and 18 allied organizations were represented in this house of delegates meeting. The AVMA was proud to announce that we have maintained over 105,000 members of the association with sights set on breaking 106,000 members by the end of 2024.

Veterinary Information Forum

The HOD had great discussion on three veterinary information forum (VIF) topics. These included a review of the model veterinary practice act, professional liability concerns, and the use of artificial intelligence and technology in practice.

It is clear that there are many liability concerns among veterinarians, particularly regarding technician responsibility and locum work. The House called for AVMA to investigate the development of additional reputation management resources for our members as well as collaborate with the PLIT to develop an omni channel approach to educate members on programs and questions related to liability and similar issues.

The Model Veterinary Practice Act (MVPA) is currently under review by the Council on Veterinary Services. Members will have an opportunity to view and comment on proposed updates to the MVPA when the open comment period begins. The House would like to continue the discussion of technician utilization with perhaps a more robust definition of the practice of veterinary medicine.

Federal Legislative Updates

The governmental relationships division (GRD) continues to work hard for veterinary advocacy in many areas. AVMA Members can stay apprised of legislative updates through the AVMA Advocacy Newsletter and get involved with advocacy through the AVMA Congressional Advocacy Network (https://avmacan.avma. org/). Members can also donate to the AVMA’s Political Action

Committee (PAC), which helps our GRD to maintain relationships with elected officials. PAC giving is completely separate from membership dues revenue.

Key updates were shared during the HOD meeting on the following legislative efforts:

Veterinary-Client Patient Relationship (VCPR)

The VCPR remains a hot topic among states. Currently 42 states mirror the FDA’s definition of VCPR, and 22 of these states are adding language prohibiting a VCPR from being established virtually.

Xylazine

There has been much activity on the federal and state level regarding xylazine. Bipartisan support is growing for federal legislation to address xylazine. Many states have been very successful in establishing exemptions for veterinarians regarding the use of xylazine. The AVMA continues to advocate for legal access to xylazine for veterinarians.

Farm Bill

The Farm Bill continues its strong support for America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest stewards through a variety of safety net, farm loan, conservation, and disaster assistance programs. The new Farm Bill includes many of the veterinary profession’s priorities. On the veterinary side, the Farm Bill includes the healthy dog importation act, the veterinary medical loan repayment (VMLRP), national animal health laboratory network funding (NAHLN), national animal disease preparedness funding (NADPREP), and food animal residue avoidance databank funding (FARAD). The House version kept authorization for funding at 2.5 million and the Senate version DOUBLES that to 5 million.

Rural Veterinary Workforce Act

This legislation would end federal taxation on VMLRP awards to help attract and retain more veterinarians to practice in USDA-designated shortage areas. The bill would stop the recycling of congressionally appropriated VMLRP funding now paid by the USDA to the U.S. Treasury Department for taxes. It would allow the USDA to provide an additional VMLRP award for every three currently made, without any supplemental appropriations.

Horse Soring

USDA APHIS released new regulations that will bolster regulations against horse soring and will become effective on February 1, 2025. This rule will crack down on loopholes. The new rule will eliminate industry self-regulation and the role of DQPs as inspectors at horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions. Only APHIS inspectors and independent non-APHISemployed horse protection inspectors screened, trained, and authorized by APHIS will have inspection authority, starting with the 2025 show season.

Resolutions

Three resolutions were considered during the session. The full texts of all resolutions is available at https://www.avma.org/ about/house-delegates/hod-resolutions-and-proposed-bylawamendments.

• Resolution 7: Supersede policy on Transport, Sale Yard Practices, and Humane Slaughter of Hoofstock and Poultry. The resolution passed as written.

• Resolution 8: Revised Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics (PVME). The resolution was passed with amendments.

• Resolution 9: Honoring and Commending the Role of Active and Reserve Military Veterinarians of the Uniformed Services of the United States of America. The resolution was passed with amendments.

Officer Elections

Dr. Rena Carlson’s term as AVMA president concluded at the 2024 AVMA Convention. Dr. Sandrah Faeh will serve as the president for 2024-2025.

PVMA Past President Dr. Michael Q. Bailey was elected as 2024-2025 President-Elect. Dr. Bailey is the AVMA’s first black President-Elect and will be the AVMA President for 2025-2026. Dr. Gary A. Marshall was elected as the 2024-2026 AVMA vice president.

Two individuals announced their candidacy for 2025-2026 AVMA President-Elect: Dr. Mary Ergen and Dr. Jen Quammen.

The House of Delegates will next meet in Chicago, Illinois in January 2025 in conjunction with the AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference.

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Mentoring in the Next Generations

By Alyssa Mages, BS, CVT, FVTE

We’ve all heard the phrase, “It’s always been/been done this way.” My standard response of late has been, “And how is that working out for you/us?”

A bit snarky? Perhaps. Accurate though? Indeed.

Time continues to show us that the other definition of insanity, doing the same thing repeatedly whilst expecting different results, is NOT working. So, isn’t it high time we started embracing what tends to be uncomfortable and scary? I would say so.

Mentorship 2.0

Traditionally, mentorship has been a relationship based on experience, knowledge, and, at times, a bit of awe, from a previous generation of professionals unto the next. This is not to say that this cannot and does not work, because for many it can—and does. However, this isn’t the only way we can mentor. Certainly not in this ever growing and evolving profession of veterinary medicine.

There are several types of mentorship that can be implemented beyond the traditional 1:1 method mentioned above. These include but are not limited to:

• Situational Mentoring: Short-term mentoring for a particular skill or problem solving in real time.

• Reverse Mentoring: When a less experienced individual mentors a more experienced individual, typically in a specific area.

• Group Mentoring: Where three or more people share knowledge with each other. If the individuals are at a similar career stage, this is more of a Peer Mentoring approach.

• Facilitated Group Mentoring: A group of mentees working with one mentor. Mentees shape the

agenda & goals and learn from one another as much as the facilitator/ mentor guides them through it.

• Team Mentoring: When a group of mentors AND mentees join together to learn. This generally would occur within a practice.

Each of these styles of mentoring can happen in the clinic or virtually. Virtual Mentoring occurs when any of the above types are conducted via a virtual platform or meeting space such as Zoom, Teams, FaceTime, etc.

Additionally, each of these mentoring styles can be through formal or informal mentoring relationships. The former being a structured, time-based program where there is goal setting and regularly scheduled meetings, and the latter starting with a casual meeting over coffee that would translate into loosely scheduled Zoom or FaceTime calls.

Knowing the style of mentorship that is being utilized is extremely important so that not only does the mentee know what they’re getting into, but that the mentor knows how they need to show up.

Tech Time

It wasn’t accidental that Zoom and FaceTime were mentioned previously. Technology plays a major role in our dayto-day lives and having it at the forefront of a conversation around mentorship should be no different. If we’re going to truly meet people where they are with what they need, then we have to not only be willing to talk about alternative meeting options, but we must also take it a step further and embrace it!

As our lives grow fuller and fuller, the ability to fill them with more and more physical meetings not only lessens but starts to feel like more of a chore or burden. How do we decrease this feeling while also ensuring that any guidance or support we lend doesn’t fall by the

wayside? We dial in, literally. If you’re over-Zoomed since 2020 (we get it, truly), then think of other ways you can connect. I already mentioned one, FaceTime, but a good ol’ fashioned phone call is sometimes just what the DVM ordered.

Another point to ponder is closing the gaps, literally, from coast to coast, continent to continent. The ability to connect with mentors and mentees from ALL walks of life is a gift that we shouldn’t turn away from. Gaining insight and perspective from outside of our comfort zones is not only how we grow, but how our profession gets out of survival mode and into a status of thriving.

A Grain of Truth: Half a Pup and a Dixie Cup: My Entrance Examinations into the World of Veterinary Medicine

This series of articles depicts funny, tragic, terrifying, or otherwise memorable anecdotes and stories from veterinary careers. Some of them might be mine. Some might belong to other people. I’m not telling. In all cases, the names have been changed to protect the innocent and the comically guilty. Some are completely true, but at minimum, every story has at least a grain of truth.

For those of you who haven’t been in the veterinary field long enough to remember when the best available drug to treat arthritis in dogs was aspirin (available in 5 grain tablets), a grain is an obsolescent unit of mass based upon the mass of a single ideal seed. In the Apothecaries' system, it is equal 64.79891 milligrams. So, maybe not much, but there is some truth in there.

At the start of spring semester in 7th grade, our civics teacher introduced a career planning program. She made available a large library of job descriptions listing educational requirements, expected salaries, and day-to-day responsibilities. You could learn about being anything from an accountant, barber, carpenter, dentist, or engineer (both the train type and the “I know how to build it” type) to a veterinarian, welder, x-ray technician, yoga instructor, or zookeeper. All the jobs were listed alphabetically for ease of access.

By Todd A. Jackson, DVM, DACLAM

We were supposed to get an inkling of what we might want to do for a living so that our guidance counselors could start herding us into college prep courses if those future jobs would require a university degree. I looked into all sorts of different careers. I learned that I did not want to be a funeral director because no matter how good of a job you do, your customers will never be happy or pleased with your work. I thought about becoming a physician, but from my extensive experience as a 12-year-old, I knew their jobs were really boring. Sure, they could answer any medical question while standing there in their clean white coats, but they would always leave before any fun stuff started. They never got dirty, and some nurse always came in to give the shots, draw the blood, or take the radiographs. The veterinarians I knew were just as smart as the physicians, but the vets actually got to do stuff.

Had I learned more about being an accountant, perhaps I would have seen the physician versus veterinarian equation differently. My mother certainly felt that way—I was in my third year of veterinary school before she stopped hinting that it wasn’t too late to change professions and become a “real doctor.” I didn’t listen to my Mom, and 34 years later, I’m still convinced that I made the right choice for me. Real doctors can treat more than one species.

The information about veterinarians said that to get into veterinary school, you needed really good grades and that you must have spent a lot of time shadowing and working with veterinarians. I figured that I could probably handle the grades, so I just needed to spend time in a veterinary clinic. I asked my dad for advice, knowing that he respected veterinarians for the work he had watched them do on the farm. Dad called our family veterinarian, Dr. Berman “Doc” Trout, and got permission for me to spend spring break in his hospital. Doc had a long list of wannabe veterinarians who volunteered with him over the years, and he was okay with having one more.

By the time Doc started seeing appointments on Monday morning, I had been given a complete tour, including waiting room, exam rooms, laboratory, pharmacy, radiology, surgery, and holding wards. I had been coached to stay quiet and off to the side, waiting to ask any questions until after the client had left and I was alone with Doc. I loved hearing about worms, fleas, and heartworm disease while watching Doc give vaccinations. I liked the smell and feel of the place. It was comfortable. Then, an emergency came in, and the entire tone of the people and the clinic changed.

A coonhound had gone into labor the week before, and after delivering a few continued on next page >

A Grain of Truth: Half a Pup and a Dixie Cup: My Entrance Examinations into the World of Veterinary Medicine

continued from page 21

pups normally, one got stuck in the birth canal. Doc, being an experienced canine obstetrician, called it “dystocia,” but my 7th grade self had no idea what that word meant. The owner had reached in and pulled hard on a pair of back legs until the puppy ripped apart, back half coming out, head stuck inside. Figuring that would knock loose whatever was stuck, the owner thought the rest would pass on its own. Three days later, with the dog getting sicker each day, he brought the dog in to see Dr. Trout. Doc had been in a good mood all morning, but suddenly he had a demeanor somewhere between worried and “angry, but I’m trying to hide it.”

We left the owner in the waiting room and took the dog back to the surgery. Doc called his assistant, Brian Miller, to help. Brian was a former volunteer like me who was now in veterinary school. He had come back to the clinic to work over spring break, and he looked as worried as Doc. Only the dog acted more worried and scared than the two of them. Doc looked at me and said that this was a really serious case, and that they were going to need my help. I perked up. I was going to get to do stuff, not just watch!

Doc positioned me off the end of the surgery table and told me to kneel, putting my head about level with the dog’s rear end. Doc had me hold one hock in each hand and told me to keep the back legs steady. He also placed a big stainless steel bucket on the floor next to me. What’s that for, I wondered? Finally, he squeezed lubricating jelly on a pair of weirdlyshaped plyers with ovals on the end that he called “obstetrical forceps.”

Doc reached over my right shoulder and manipulated the OB forceps into the lower of the 2 holes under the dog’s tail, just inches away from my face. At the same time, Doc reached over my left shoulder with his other arm and pressed on the dog’s abdomen After a few seconds of maneuvering, Doc gently pulled the forceps back out. There was a soft, plopping noise as a puppy’s front half exited the coonhound, and the lips of the vulva clapped back together. Inside the ovals of the OB forceps was something barely recognizable as a puppy head, all brown and decaying with the classic stench of rotting flesh. Doc held it an inch from my face and asked, “Well, what do

you think of that?”

I know that a normal 7th grader’s reaction would be to recoil in horror while vomiting up their morning meal. Fortunately, I have rarely been described as “normal.”

I’m blessed with the usual veterinarian’s constitution that has me feel “meh” when watching pus ooze from an abscess, when seeing live maggots wiggle in a wound, or when smelling the classic scent of bloody feces that sprays from the anal orifice of a dog with parvovirus. It’s not that I think any of those things are pleasant. They’re just things. You clean them up and move on with your day.

To me the entire process of extracting the puppy head looked like a magic trick. It reminded me of a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. I just said: “Wow!! Cool!!”

Doc looked a little confused, then grinned, glanced at Brian, and said, “Hmm. This kid might do it.”

Brian looked surprised and said, “Yeah, maybe so.”

I didn’t know what they meant at the time. Do what?

Now I know they thought that I might actually make it in the world of veterinary medicine. It was part one of my entrance examination into the elite club that starts volunteering in veterinary practices, graduates from veterinary schools, works as veterinarians, and lets future veterinarians volunteer at their practice.

When my parents came to pick me up, Doc and Brian asked if I wanted to come back the next day, and I said, “Absolutely!” They were already planning part two of my entrance examination.

The next day, our first patient was the same dog back for a recheck. She obviously felt much better and was nursing the pups that made it out before the last one got stuck. It made me feel really great inside to see the dog acting much happier.

After the recheck, we had some time before the next appointment. Doc and Brian herded me into the laboratory and said they were going to teach me how to

diagnose diabetes. Alone on the counter was a single cup, Dixie brand, filled with yellow-orange liquid. Doc and Brian stood together blocking the doorway to the lab, preventing any escape if I should feel the need to flee.

Doc said that they had a urine sample from an older dog that had been drinking a lot of water and losing weight. He suspected diabetes and was running a lab test to prove it. He stuck his finger in the yellow liquid, put it up to his mouth, and licked his finger saying, “Aha. It’s sweet. The dog has too much sugar in its blood, and the sugar is spilling over into the urine. That’s a classic sign of diabetes.”

He told me to taste it so I could learn how to tell when animals have diabetes. Now this didn’t seem right to me—actually tasting urine as a diagnostic test?! I wondered if this could really be how you diagnose diabetes. If so, did I really want to be a veterinarian?

I thought I could vaguely remember some movie where a mean doctor tricked a med student into tasting urine by dipping one finger in the sample and quickly licking a different finger. The student didn’t notice the finger switch, thought the instructor really tasted urine, and felt he had to do the same. The student gagged at the horrible taste while the doctor laughed and said to be more observant if you want to become a good doctor.

I protested and told Doc and Brian that I wasn’t going to fall for some finger switch. I was too smart for that.

Doc grinned and Brian laughed. Doc said to watch again and to pay more attention this time. He dipped his pointer finger into the cup, very slowly raised it to his mouth while I watched intently for the switch, and licked the very same finger he had just put in the urine. There could be no doubt; there had been no switch. I was dumbfounded.

Doc said, “Now it’s your turn. Give it a try.”

I stood there stupidly staring at the liquid in the cup, trying to decide if I should really taste it. It didn’t smell bad, no ammonia odor. It looked a little too orange and not quite yellow enough for any urine that I had ever seen. When I looked closely, I even saw bubbles forming on

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the side of the cup, slowly breaking free and rising up to the surface. Is urine ever carbonated? I wondered. Then it came to me! I picked up the cup, stared defiantly at Doc and Brian, and said “You’re not fooling me! This is orange soda!”

I gulped down the liquid, hoping desperately that I was right. The taste confirmed it-- orange pop. Doc and Brian laughed, and we went on to see appointments.

Brian graduated from veterinary school and joined a practice down south. I kept volunteering at the clinic until I got a driver’s license and could drive in on my own. At that point Doc hired me to work in the practice as a tech, floor mopper, re-stocker, receptionist, and fractious patient restrainer. A new young lady started volunteering on her way to becoming a veterinarian, but I wasn’t there for her urine taste test. A few years later, Doc wrote an excellent recommendation to help get me into veterinary school. I am ever grateful that I passed their tests and that Doc and Brian let me get in their way, hanging around the clinic and pestering them with questions as I tried to soak up everything I could about the world of veterinary medicine.

About the Author: Dr. Jackson is a board-certified specialist in laboratory animal medicine and serves as the Director of the Animal Resource Program at Penn State’s University Park campus. He is a Research Professor in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. He can be reached via e-mail at taj5330@psu.edu.

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Keystone Veterinary Conference Hall of Fame Awards Recipients

At this year’s Keystone Veterinary Conference, attendees were invited for a special event, the Hall of Fame Dinner. Held at the Hershey Country Club, the dinner celebrated the best of veterinary medicine in Pennsylvania. Keynote speaker Christine D’Ercole, a writer, decorated competitive cyclist, and original Peloton instructor, delivered an inspirational message to all of those who attended.

The PVMA awards are designed to celebrate the achievements and resilience of our veterinary professionals.

Wodan Animal Hero Award: Yoda

The Wodan Animal Hero Award was created in 2001 to recognize the courageous and heroic acts of Pennsylvania animals in the preservation and protection of animal or human life. The award was named after its inaugural

recipient, Wodan, a Harrisburg City police dog who was injured in the line of duty. Wodan, a Belgian Malinois, and Officer Michael Lamonto responded to a call of an armed person. Upon reaching the scene, a suspect for another crime was identified. When the suspect ran from the scene, Wodan was released to apprehend him. He was shot four times. Even gravely wounded, Wodan was able to detain the suspect until the officers could apprehend him. The 2024 recipient of the Wodan Animal Hero Award is Yoda.

Yoda is a Belgian Malinois who began his career as a Patrol K9 with the U.S. Border Patrol in 2022. He is assigned to the Special Operations Detachment, Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC). Yoda’s main skillset is location and apprehension of criminals. Yoda has served on countless high-risk operations alongside his BORTAC team. To date, these operations have yielded seizures of a significant amount of illicit narcotics, over $1,250,000 in U.S. currency, 89 firearms, and 59 arrests. Yoda has deployed to numerous nationally significant events. Most noteworthy was the manhunt for Danelo Cavalcante.

In September 2023, Yoda and his BORTAC team deployed to Chester County, PA. The mission was to locate and apprehend Danelo Cavalcante. Cavalcante escaped from Chester County jail, thus beginning a 14-day manhunt. The terrain and weather added to the difficulty of this

operation. The woods were extremely thick, overgrown with thorns, vines, and many large fallen dead trees. With temperatures hovering around the mid 90s, extremely high humidity, and lack of cloud cover, conditions were difficult for working dogs. Finally, with help from many other agencies, Yoda and his BORTAC team successfully located and apprehended Cavalcante. Yoda was able to physically apprehend the subject by biting him. This prevented his escape and his ability to use the stolen rifle he possessed.

Certified Veterinary Technician of the Year Award:

Heather Kulsa, CVT

The Certified Veterinary Technician of the Year Award is presented to a PVMA member for outstanding performance in veterinary technology. The award was given to Heather Kulsa, CVT. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Heather started her veterinary career with a passion

for animal care. Starting as a volunteer at a day practice, she soon realized her calling and enrolled in tech school. After graduating, she obtained her CVT certification after passing state boards. Since 2012, Heather has dedicated herself to the demanding field of emergency medicine at the Animal Emergency Center. This role has allowed her to hone her skills and provide critical care when animals need it most. Outside of work, her greatest joy is spending time with her family, which includes her three-year-old Boxer, Albus.

Veterinarian of the Year Award: George Melillo, VMD

The Veterinarian of the Year Award is presented to a PVMA member for outstanding performance in veterinary medicine. The award was presented to George Melillo, VMD. Dr. Melillo, the Founder and Chief Veterinary Officer of Heart + Paw, is a proud 1985 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Melillo, like so many veterinarians, always wanted to be a veterinarian. He often cites his boyhood mentor, Dr. Terrence Claypoole, as taking him under his wing all through high school in West Haven, CT. He has had a long career working in private practice as well as in corporate veterinary medicine. In addition, Dr. Melillo has also been involved in two successful start-up companies in human pharmaceuticals.

In 2018, Dr. Melillo started Heart + Paw with a passion for the profession. His vision was to create a practice where veterinarians and veterinary care providers, whom he believes have the noblest of hearts, can practice happy, healthy, and successfully. In addition, the vision for Heart + Paw was to reimagine pet care and create a new model of care that truly treats pets and their parents like family by embracing minimal stress handling and leveraging

the power of technology. He is passionate about empowering veterinarians to own or co-own practices and feels that veterinarians should, and must be, the best stewards of veterinary medicine. As Chief Veterinary Officer, he has overseen the talent acquisition, operations, and human resources teams and under this leadership, Heart + Paw has grown to 28 veterinary hospitals in 10 states, and successfully hired a total of 433 team members. These hospitals have collectively cared for 125,000 pets in the company’s first 5 years.

Dr. Melillo is licensed in six states and has been a member of the PVMA and AVMA for forty years. He has been the secretary/ treasurer of Animal Care of PA. Dr. Melillo is also actively involved as a member of the Board of Chief Veterinary Medical Officers (BCVMO) and is in the process of forming NOVL (New Order of Veterinary Leadership) with two colleagues.

Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Melillo lives with his wife of 34 years and his 12-year-old Jack Russell rescue, Pancho. He is the father of five “millennial” children and the proudest of grandfathers to three.

Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award: Harvey R. Bendix, VMD

The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award is earned with years of dedicated and outstanding leadership and service to the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association. The award was presented to Harvey R. Bendix, VMD.

Dr. Harvey Bendix has dedicated his life and career to the veterinary profession and lives his life by the veterinary oath. A 1975 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, he established Norwin Veterinary Hospital with his wife, Diane. Dr. Bendix has worked tirelessly for the WPVMA, serving as president for several

consecutive terms. He served PVMA as the western PA delegate for more than a decade and was PVMA’s president in 1995, the same year in which he earned the PVMA Veterinarian of the Year Award.

Dr. Bendix arranged educational events and meetings for the WPVMA and the PVMA. As an officer in these associations, his goal was to provide quality educational speakers and provide programs to keep members informed about the latest concepts and topics in veterinary medicine. He also promoted these associations to his colleagues to increase association membership. In addition, Dr. Bendix taught police, paramedics, and first responders an in-depth course on emergency first aid and CPR. Dr. Bendix has served as an expert witness in several Allegheny County animal cruelty cases and a federal government interstate animal cruelty case involving pit bull fighting. In addition, he aided the McKeesport Fire Department in the rescue of more than 40 cats trapped in a house fire, where many of the cats survived!

Dr. Bendix feels that one of his most important duties as a veterinarian is to teach. He has trained and mentored students, helped students get accepted into veterinary school, and guided them as they began their careers. He also enjoys educating the public via television or radio interviews, and writing newspaper articles on veterinary topics. When he worked as an animal caretaker at the Pittsburgh Zoo, “Mr. Harvey” made many appearances for the zoo on the children’s show “Romper Room.” Most important, Dr. Bendix believes in educating his clients on veterinary care, the ailments their pet may be experiencing and the proper treatment that they require.

Dr. Bendix and his wife, Diane, have dedicated their lives and financial resources to rescue many homeless, ill, and abused dogs and cats. They have supported many animal charities during their journey together in life.

We congratulate the winners and nominees, and thank those who submitted nominations. We celebrate the members of the PA veterinary community who exemplify all that is great about veterinary medicine!

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Keystone Veterinary Conference 2024

continued from page 25

Attendees look forward to catching up with old and new friends between sessions.

Attendees and Exhibitors enjoyed networking and learning opportunities in the Marketplace.

Dr. Adam Rudinsky presents on gastroenterology.

PVMA thanks Hill's, Heart and Paw, and Elanco for their sponsorship of the Hall of Fame Dinner.

Past PVMA President, Dr. Harvey Bendix, receives the PVMA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Peloton instructor Christine D'ercole inspires at the Hall of Fame Dinner.

2024 Veterinarian of the Year, Dr. George Melillo, with family.

AVMA President & past PVMA President Michael A. Bailey addresses the annual meeting.

Passing the Gavel. Munkittrick left, Proctor right.

Wodan Animal Hero, Yoda.

AVMA President-Elect 2024-2025: Dr. Michael Bailey

Reprinted from the AVMA News Press Release 06/24/2024 https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/american-veterinary-medical-association-elects-new-volunteer-leaders-2024-2025

Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, a boardcertified veterinary radiologist and researcher, became the AVMA’s first Black PresidentElect, pledging to offer “robust, effective, and diverse leadership that inspires innovation.”

Dr. Bailey earned his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University’s College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. He then obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Tuskegee University in Alabama and later completed a comprehensive internship and radiology residency at Michigan State University.

Dr. Bailey has served on the faculties at Tuskegee, Michigan State University and The Ohio State University. He pioneered Ohio’s inaugural private practice, advanced veterinary CT imaging services and launched referral and emergency imaging facilities in Pittsburgh. As the lead radiologist for a nationwide veterinary practice with

more than 1,000 facilities, he was pivotal in nationwide distributed veterinary imaging services and telemedicine. Dr. Bailey currently serves as the director of medical innovations in telemedicine for a global telemedicine consultant business, where he brings his extensive telemedicine expertise to the forefront. Dr. Bailey also was an AAAS/AVMA Congressional fellow, serving as a full-time scientific legislative advisor in a congressional office.

Dr. Bailey has been engaged in organized veterinary volunteer leadership at the state and national levels. His leadership journey includes serving on the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) board and as PVMA president. He recently completed a six-year term on the AVMA Board of Directors, representing District 2, which encompasses New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia.

“The AVMA as a member association thrives on our collective efforts,” Dr. Bailey said. “Our esteemed members and colleagues are not just a part of the AVMA but its essence and backbone. Together, we can inspire our colleagues back home to join this journey of service. Their involvement is essential to our collective success.”

PVMA 2024 – 2025 Leadership

Rhett Proctor, DVM President

Prior to attending veterinary school, Dr. Proctor owned and operated a dairy farm in western Massachusetts for more than 20 years. After graduating veterinary school in 2016, he worked for many years as a large animal veterinarian in Gap, PA, before moving to his current job as a small animal vet in Honeybrook, PA. Dr. Proctor is in his second term as the PVMA Production Animal-at-Large Trustee, and has been involved in numerous organizations and served them in many capacities over the years.

Andrea Honigmann, DVM President-Elect

Dr. Andrea Honigmann is originally from Ohio, but she has called Pennsylvania home since graduation in 2006 from Iowa State University. She has served in various roles of organized veterinary medicine in her career, including a District 7 Trustee. She was formerly the president of the Conestoga Veterinary Medical Association and currently serves as the Western PVMA president, organizing and planning the biannual meetings. She looks forward to continuing to represent the veterinarians of this area in a meaningful way and helping to provide a voice for her colleagues in affairs that matter to the profession. She currently practices as the Partner Doctor for Hannastown Veterinary Center, a Heart + Paw partner practice in Greensburg. Dr. Honigmann lives with her husband, three children, a chocolate Lab (Oliver), and three cats (Bean, Fanta, and Iris, all three named by her children).

Jeffrey Dill, DVM Vice President

Jeff Dill is a Missouri native, growing up in the St. Louis area. He graduated from the University of Missouri in 2008 and moved to Pennsylvania shortly after. He worked in a mixed animal practice for two years and then transitioned to companion animal exclusive medicine in 2010. He purchased his business in Mount Joy, PA in 2017 and has been fulfilling his duties there since as a full-time practitioner and business owner of a four-doctor practice. He lives in the Lancaster area with his wife, Laura, and their beautiful daughter, Charlotte. He enjoys spending time outdoors, including hiking, camping, and fishing. In 2017, he

was a veterinarian for the Iditarod and considers this one of the highlights of his career.

William Croushore, DVM Secretary/Treasurer

Dr. Bill Croushore attended veterinary school at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (Virginia Tech), graduating in 1997. Prior to veterinary school, Dr. Croushore attended Duquesne University School of Pharmacy and graduated in 1992. He practiced pharmacy in southwest Virginia until he was accepted into veterinary school in 1993. Dr. Croushore was raised in Ruffsdale, Westmoreland County, in southwest Pennsylvania.

Dr. Croushore’s professional interests include embryo transfer, pushing the limits of on-farm oocyte collection (cow eggs), embryo transfer, herd health management and bovine surgery. Dr. Croushore has been certified by the American Embryo Transfer Association for exporting bovine embryos internationally since 2012 and by the USDA for EU export since 2014.

Dr. Croushore holds memberships in the following professional organizations: American Veterinary Medical Association, Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Bovine Practitioners, Society for Theriogenology, American Embryo Transfer Association, and the International Embryo Transfer Society. He is a member of the board of directors for the American Embryo Transfer Association and served as the association’s past president in 2022.

Dr. Croushore is a regular contributor to Pinzgauer Journal and the Keystone Cattleman. His first published book, Oops,…And Other Words You Don’t Like to Hear Your Surgeon Say, was released in the summer of 2018. His latest, titled The Majestic Cow, was published in 2021

When not engaged in professional activities, he enjoys time with his family, hunting the often-elusive whitetail deer and fishing. Dr. Croushore is married to his wife of 27 years, Sheila, and is the proud father of two children, Nolan and Bena. He attends St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church where he teaches 8th grade CCD class.

Thomas Munkittrick, DVM Past President

Dr. Munkittrick is from Dillsburg, PA, and has worked at VCA Willow Mill in Mechanicsburg since 1996. He has been an active PVMA

member for more than 20 years. He enjoys golfing, boating, mountain biking, and attending PSU tailgates with his wife, Ruth. Both Ruth and Dr. Munkittrick are devoted to their two Boykin Spaniels, Lady Balbriggan and Harper Dublin, in addition to being proud grandparents to their grandchildren, Anna, Kolette, and Liam.

Dr. Munkittrick received his BS in Animal BioScience in 1985. He furthered his education from there, received his Master’s in Reproduction Physiology from Virginia Tech in 1989, and he then obtained his DVM from the Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 1995.

Erin Johnson, DVM, MBA Western Region Trustee

Andrea Carr, DVM North Central Region Trustee

Andrea Carr is a 2018 graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. She currently practices at Plains Animal Hospital where she is employed as a small animal veterinary associate. Professional interests include surgery and organized veterinary medicine. She has served on the PVMA Board of Trustees since 2019, representing District 3. She resides in Northeastern PA and her hobbies include spending time with her senior Jack Russell Terrier, Willie, and orange cat, Copper, vegetable gardening, crafting, and serving as director of a local Girl Scout summer day camp.

Gary Brummel, DVM South Central Region Trustee

Dr. Gary Brummel was born and raised in Wisconsin, where he earned his DVM at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1993. Upon graduation, he moved to the east coast to practice in Maryland, then Pennsylvania. For nearly 25 years, Gary has been the sole owner of 5th Avenue Animal Hospital in Lebanon, PA. It is a four-doctor mixed animal practice which cares for small animals, cattle and some small ruminants.

James Holt, VMD

Equine Veterinarian At-Large

Dr. James (Jim) Holt’s love for animals began at an early age and he has been an avid horse rider since he was nine years old. While riding Hunters and Jumpers, the highlight of his riding career was when he rode in a Grand Prix at age 16.

Dr. Holt completed his undergrad in 1986 from the Gettysburg College and then attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 1991. Upon completion of his education, he was hired on to the Morgantown Veterinary Clinic, a mixed equine/bovine practice that serviced Northern Chester, Lancaster, and Berks Counties.

In 1993, Dr. Holt decided to open his own mixed practice called Brandywine Veterinary Services, which he still runs today. He is a current board member of the PVMA. The PVMA awarded Dr. Holt with the Animal Welfare Advocacy Award in 2015. Dr. Holt recently retired from the Animal Welfare and Public Policy Committee for the American Association of Equine Practitioners. He is the chairman on One Health Task Force as well as a commissioner for the Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission. In addition to those, Dr. Holt is a former board member for The Parkesburg Point in Parkesburg, PA. Dr. Holt is vice president of agriculture, agritech and food security with Phoenix Global.

Currently, he works three days per week as the veterinarian for New Holland Sales Stables in New Holland, Pennsylvania, working predominantly with cows and horses. Dr. Holt is a current partner and chief veterinarian for Keystone Farm Futures. Dr. Holt is also the CEO of Compostech, LLC, a large composting business supplying compost to farmers and landscapers. The rest of Dr. Holt’s time is spent in a more typical mixed large animal practice including horses, dairy, and beef cattle as well as other large animal species.

Robert Cloninger, VMD Production Animal Veterinarian At-Large

Dr. Cloninger grew up in State College as a son of a dairy science professor and worked on a beef and sheep farm as a teenager. He studied animal science at Penn State, then went to the University of Wisconsin-Madison for graduate work in nutrition before going to veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania. His first veterinary jobs were in mixed practice in Bloomsburg and Bellefonte, PA, before starting Centre Herd Health Services, a four-person primarily dairy practice serving producers in Central Pennsylvania.

Dr. Cloninger has served as secretary of the Pennsylvania State Board of Veterinary Medicine and as a member of the AABP board of directors representing the Mid-Atlantic States. He currently lives in Centre Hall, PA, with his wife, Ellen, and four adult children and nine grandchildren.

Ashley Mase, CVT Certified Veterinary Technician At-Large

Ashley Mase is a practicing CVT and the hospital manager at VCA East Penn Animal Hospital, located in Emmaus, PA. In 2021, she was awarded the PVMA Practice Manager of the Year. She has had a well-rounded career in numerous areas of veterinary medicine including academia, general practice, and specialty and emergency medicine. Her current focus is on building team relationships and growing as a leader. Ashley is also a PVMA continued on next page >

PVMA 2024 – 2025 Leadership

continued from page 29

Power of 10 graduate, as well a column contributor for the Keystone Veterinarian, the official quarterly publication from PVMA. She resides in Berks County with her husband, daughter, and their pit bull mix.

Christian Nase, 3rd-Year Student Veterinary Student At-Large

Upon graduating from Northern York County High School in 2017, Christian pursued higher education at Penn State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in veterinary and biomedical science. Throughout his academic career, Christian demonstrated a commitment to gaining practical experience, spending extensive time volunteering and shadowing at various veterinary clinics. Notably, he contributed significantly to the operations of Dover Area Animal Hospital, a facility owned and operated by his family, serving central Pennsylvania since 1998.

At Penn State, Christian’s academic pursuits extended beyond the classroom as he delved into research endeavors with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). He was involved in projects exploring diverse topics such as rumen digestion metrics and the relationship between feedstuffs and emissions in cattle. In addition, he volunteered with a cat adoption and foster organization.

Jill Stetz, VMD Metro Philadelphia Region Trustee

Jill Stetz received her B.S. in biology and natural sciences from Muhlenberg College, then graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1994.

Since graduation, Dr. Stetz has worked at multi-doctor small animal general practices in the Delaware Valley and Main Line areas prior to purchasing Narberth Animal Hospital in 2005, after being an associate there for seven years. Dr. Stetz is the third owner of Narberth Animal Hospital and she has continued the independent practitioner status of this small animal and exotic general practice.

Dr. Stetz is also a member of AVMA and served on the American Board of Veterinary Specialties. She is currently serving on the board of directors for the Independent Veterinary Practitioner’s Association.

Dr. Stez shares her household with her husband, two Giant Schnauzers, three German Shepherds, and numerous koi which were spawned in their own pond.

Tina Dougherty, VMD

AVMA Delegate

Dr Dougherty received her undergraduate degree in biology from Chestnut Hill College, and her VMD from the University

of Pennsylvania. After two years in a mixed practice, she was awarded a fellowship in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery at the University of Veterinary Sciences in Budapest, Hungary. Tina then returned to the United States to continue her work as a clinician in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as well as an adjunct professor in the Veterinary Technology Department at Manor College in Pennsylvania.

While in private practice, Dr. Dougherty treated small animals and exotics, with a special interest in soft tissue surgery. Joining Pfizer Animal Health (now Zoetis) in 2003, Dr. Dougherty worked in Veterinary Medical Information & Product Support (VMIPS) team as a Technical Services veterinarian, and then became the Companion Animal manager in 2008.

In addition to her role in VMIPS, Dr. Dougherty has been a FRANK coach for the last five years, and eventually moved into the role of team trainer and development specialist. Dr. Dougherty left Zoetis in late 2015 and joined the staff of Penn Vet full-time.

Kate Boatright, VMD AVMA Alternate Delegate

Dr. Kate Boatright has been in small animal practice since graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013. After nearly eight years of full-time practice in both general practice and emergency clinics, she moved to part-time clinical work to pursue her passion for educating veterinary professionals as a freelance speaker and author. Dr. Boatright enjoys discussing mentorship, the unique challenges facing recent graduates, wellness, and the spectrum of care. She believes deeply in the role of organized veterinary medicine and is the AVMA alternate delegate for Pennsylvania. She previously served as the PVMA District 1 trustee from 2016 to 2021 and was appointed vice president for the 2021-2022 association year. She is an editor of Keystone Veterinarian and the secretary for the Northwest PVMA. In her remaining time, she stays busy chasing her toddler, running, reading, and watching movies with her husband and cats.

Alessandro Lamacchia, VMD Academic Veterinarian At-Large

Dr. Lamacchia grew up in northern New Jersey surrounded by animals. He received his B.S. in Biology and minor in Computer Science from the College of William & Mary, then graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2022. As a student he served on the PVMA Board of Trustees. Since graduating he is pursuing post-doctoral training at Penn Vet. He has a strong interest in exotic medicine and animal welfare along with policy and advocacy.

Why Every PracticeVeterinaryNeeds

As I write this article, a news story is running in the background about airline travel delays in Seattle due to a cyberattack. Just this summer, outages to airports, banking, and other commonly used systems impacted everyone nationally. It’s no secret that cybersecurity is an important issue, and even small businesses should be aware of the risks and challenges associated with operating in a digital age.

If you run a veterinary practice, you’re aware of the challenges associated with anxious pets, managing a busy schedule, building a quality staff, and providing top-notch care. But the challenges that cyberattacks can bring might not be on your radar, but they have serious consequences. In today’s digital age, cyber insurance has become just as essential as other forms of business insurance. Let’s explore why it’s so important for veterinary practices to have a cyber insurance policy.

The Digital Shift in Veterinary Practices

Like many businesses, veterinary practices have increasingly moved toward digital solutions. Practice information management systems (PIMS), patient records, appointment schedules, payment processing, and even communication with clients are often handled through various online platforms and software. This shift offers numerous benefits, from streamlined operations to enhanced patient care. However, it also opens the door to cyber threats.

You might think, “Why would anyone target a veterinary practice?” The truth is, cybercriminals often see small to medium-sized businesses as easy targets because they may lack

the sophisticated cybersecurity defenses of larger organizations. Veterinary practices are no exception. They handle sensitive information such as client contact details, payment information, and even medical records—data that cybercriminals find valuable.

Cybercrime is also very lucrative. “If it were measured as a country, then cybercrime—which is predicted to inflict damages totaling $9.5 trillion USD globally in 2024, according to Cybersecurity Ventures—would be the world’s third-largest economy after the U.S. and China, surpassing the wealth of entire nations,” says Steve Morgan. 1

Real-World Example of a Cyberattack in the Industry

In 2019, the largest reported ransomware attack on the veterinary industry targeted National Veterinary Associates.2 Operations at hundreds of NVA clinics were disrupted for several days. The attackers encrypted the hospital’s files, demanding a ransom to unlock them. The hospital’s operations were severely disrupted, with staff unable to access patient records, schedule appointments, or process payments. The financial impact was substantial, as NVA had to pay the ransom to regain access to their systems, alongside dealing with the loss of revenue from days of disrupted service. The breach was traced to an email opened by a veterinary student using one of the hospital’s computers. Practice owners had good virus software and firewalls in place—but cyberattackers are inventive.

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Why Every Veterinary Practice Needs Cyber Insurance

The Role of Cyber Insurance

So, what exactly does cyber insurance do? In short, it helps cover the costs associated with a cyberattack. This can include things like:

• Data Recovery: If your systems are compromised, cyber insurance can help cover the cost of recovering lost or encrypted data.

• Business Interruption: If a cyberattack forces you to shut down operations temporarily, cyber insurance can help cover the loss of income during that period.

• Legal Fees: If client data is breached, you may face legal action. Cyber insurance can help cover legal defense costs, as well as any settlements or fines.

• Notification Costs: In the event of a data breach, you’re often required by law to notify affected clients, which can be both costly and time-consuming. Cyber insurance can cover these costs.

• Public Relations Support: After a cyber incident, maintaining your reputation is crucial. Cyber insurance often includes PR assistance to help manage the situation and reassure your clients.

Protecting Your Practice and Clients

The financial protection that cyber insurance offers is crucial, but just as important is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that you have a safety net in place allows you to focus on what you do best—caring for your patients—without constantly worrying about the “what ifs” of cyber threats.

Having cyber insurance can also be a trust-building factor with your clients. They want to know that their information is safe with you, and having a robust cyber insurance policy in place is one way to demonstrate your commitment to protecting their data.

PVMA’s Trusted Insurance Partner

Cyber threats are a reality that every veterinary practice must face. While you can (and should) invest in cybersecurity measures, no system is entirely foolproof. That’s where cyber insurance comes in—offering a critical layer of protection that can make the difference between a minor setback and a major crisis.

So, whether you’re running a single-location clinic or a multipractice operation, it’s time to consider cyber insurance as an essential part of your business strategy. The team at Alera Group can help! You may already know our team as your source for employee benefits, but we also have insurance to protect your business—including cyber insurance. It’s not just about protecting your practice—it’s about safeguarding the trust your clients place in you and ensuring that you can continue to provide the care their pets deserve, no matter what challenges come your way.

Visit cloud-aia.aleragroup.com/pvma to get started with Alera Group!

References:

1 Morgan, Steve (2024, June 24). 2024 Cybersecurity Almanac: 100 Facts, Figures, Predictions And Statistics. https://cybersecurityventures. com/cybersecurity-almanac-2024/

2 Nolan, R. Scott (2021, October 13). Feds see alarming increase in data breaches among businesses. https://www.avma.org/javmanews/2021-11-01/dont-let-cybercriminals-hack-your-practice

Mark Your Calendar!

August 14 – 17, 2025

Hilton Harrisburg Harrisburg, PA

November 8 – 9, 2025

DoubleTree Pittsburgh Cranberry Cranberry, PA

Sponsor and exhibitor applications for both events open February 1.

Attendee registration for KVC opens March 15.

Stay tuned to the PVMA website for details!

Interested in submitting a speaker proposal for PVMA’s 2025 conferences?

The 2025 call for presentations will be available on the PVMA website on January 2, 2025, and will close on January 31, 2025. The call for presentations will also be released via email. All interested speakers must complete the online submission form with the proposed session titles and descriptions to be considered. Proposals must include presentations to fill either three hours or six hours. The schedules are divided into one-hour segments so three or six separate topics can fill a block.

All interested speakers and companies are invited to submit a proposal for consideration.

Questions? Contact Melanie at melanie@pavma.org.

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Dover Area Animal Hospital in Dover, PA, is looking for a passionate Veterinarian to join our team. As a busy mixed animal practice, we cater to dogs, cats, exotics, and large animals, offering a diverse caseload from routine wellness to full diagnostic workups. Operating with a 6-Doctor team, we provide cutting-edge facilities and a supportive environment for all experience levels. If you are a new graduate, we offer mentorship at the hospital level as well as one-on-one training with our mentor veterinarian via a specialized 12-month formal mentorship program. 4-day work weeks available and no on-call or after-hours. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-3093709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@ nva.com.

Monroeville, PA | Full-Time

Murrysville Veterinary Associates, located in Pittsburgh’s eastern suburbs, is looking for a veterinarian. We are a recently expanded AAHA-accredited hospital that was designed by Animal Arts, the pioneers in the Fear Free hospital concept. Our four doctors practice small animal medicine in a friendly, collaborative environment that encourages professional development through peer mentorship. The clinic is equipped with digital radiology and ultrasound, a two-table surgery suite, electrocautery, therapeutic laser, isolation, in-house laboratory, and a fully equipped two-table digital dental suite. Our 4-day work weeks with rotating Saturdays reflect work/life balance and flexible schedules for our staff. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Chambersburg , PA | Full-Time

Best Friends Animal Hospital is seeking a compassionate veterinarian to join our progressive small animal practice. At Best Friends Animal Hospital, we are committed to supporting learning and growth as well as providing mentorship. The ideal candidate for this role would be able to perform surgery, evaluate emergent patients, perform annual examinations, order appropriate tests and provide a diagnosis and treatment plan. As a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Hospital, you will enjoy a threeto four-day flexible schedule. We offer a generous sign-on Bonus, retention Bonus, relocation assistance, and student loan assistance. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli. Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Chambersburg, PA | Full-Time

Chambersburg Animal Hospital is a fullservice companion pet hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for dogs, cats, and pocket pets. We are located conveniently off Routes 81 and 30 in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania and have been serving the community for over 70 years. We are looking for a full-time Veterinarian who has an interest in dentistry and surgery. Our hospital includes 6 exam rooms, a large surgery suite, dental suite, laser surgery, ultrasound, complete pharmacy

and more. Emergency interest is a plus. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-3093709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@ nva.com.

Hollidaysburg, PA | Full-Time

Blair Animal Hospital in beautiful central Pennsylvania is looking to add another part- to full-time veterinarian to our team. We are currently comprised of two full-time veterinarians and one parttime veterinarian, along with an amazing support staff. Blair Animal Hospital is a cat and dog exclusive hospital, but our clientele and team would be happy to open our doors to exotics and/or pocket pets if there is an interest in this area. We look forward to mentoring a new graduate or learning from an experienced applicant that is looking to work within a team to care for our patients. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Edinboro, PA | Full-Time

Camboro Veterinary Hospital located in Edinboro, PA, just a short distance from the picturesque Lake Erie in Northwest PA is looking for a dedicated Medical Director to lead our practice. Joint Ownership is an option for interested candidates but not a requirement. Collaborating with the Hospital Manager, you will implement innovative strategies to enhance client service, marketing initiatives, and overall practice success. We offer a dynamic work environment with a team of 4 doctors and a robust support team, where you can contribute to practice growth and community engagement. We offer many amazing benefits and value work-life balance. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-3093709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@ nva.com.

Williamsport, PA | Full-Time

The Animal Hospital on the Golden Strip, located in Williamsport, PA is looking for another veterinarian. We treat dogs, cats and some exotics. Our technician team is out of this world and makes our doctors’ lives very manageable throughout the day. Enjoy 4-day work weeks with no on-call. Benefits include relocation assistance for those who aren’t local. Our hospital is equipped with 2-table

surgery suite, 2-table dental suite, 6 exam rooms, comfort suite, state-ofthe-art ultrasound, laser therapy, Idexx in-house lab, and separate cat and dog waiting areas. We’re most proud of the professional support, development, and mentoring we offer. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Gettysburg | Full-Time

Confederate Woods Veterinary Hospital in Gettysburg, PA, an AAHA-accredited hospital, is looking for an Associate Veterinarian. Join us in providing outstanding medical care and excellent client experiences with a focus on worklife balance and no on-call duties. If you’re dedicated to offering top-notch healthcare to animals and their owners, we want to meet you! As part of our collaborative team, you’ll handle various cases, surgeries, dentistry, and more with the support of advanced equipment. We welcome new ideas for service improvement – from growing our exotics program to implementing acupuncture training. Experienced or new graduates welcome. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Hunt Valley | Full-Time

Set hours. Less stress. Patient carefocused. Limited client interaction. VNIoC, a thriving privately-owned neurology/neurosurgery and advanced imaging practice in Hunt Valley, Maryland, is seeking a Veterinarian to perform and oversee anesthesia of patients undergoing MRI & CT. Fulltime four days per week. Open to Parttime. One weekend per month on-call. Requirements: Either completion of a small animal rotating internship or 3 years of clinical experience. Experience in and enthusiasm for anesthesia a big plus. This is the perfect role for a veterinarian who is passionate about veterinary medicine but maybe needs a break from daily client interaction. Please call Nicole Myers at 410-828-0911 Ext 5 and/or nicolem@vnioc.com/vnioc.com.

Mechanicsburg, PA | Full-Time or PartTime

Peaceful Pet Passage, an independent, locally owned small business in Mechanicsburg, PA, is looking for full-time or part-time veterinarians specializing in end-of-life care, including in-home pet euthanasia and quality of life consultations. The veterinarians will receive support from a local home base for appointment scheduling and pickups, and will play a crucial role in assisting clients and their beloved companion animals during the difficult end-of-life care process.

License/Certification:

Pennsylvania state veterinary license and DEA License (Required)

Benefits: Competitive Salary

Company Vehicle and gas card

Employee assistance program

Employee discount

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development assistance

Retirement plan

Please call John at 717-691-9214 or email secretary@peacefulpetpassage.com to set up an interview or get additional information.

Pittsburgh, PA | Full-Time or Part-Time Holiday Park Animal Hospital, nestled on the Golden Mile Highway, is seeking a dedicated Veterinarian to join our team. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a range of services, including in-house testing, digital x-ray, ultrasound, surgical and dental suites, and a pharmacy. If you are a passionate professional with excellent communication skills and a collaborative spirit, we want to hear from you! Your ideas and contributions will be valued as we strive to excel in our vibrant community. We are also open to someone who only wants to see wellness/sick appointments (no surgery). Please contact Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818309-3709 or by email at Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

North Versailles, PA | Full-Time

We are seeking a Medical Director with a vision to help grow our hospital, North Versailles Veterinary Care, while advancing our quality of care. The Medical Director is responsible for providing medical leadership, managing associate veterinarians, and assuring regulatory compliance relating to the practice of veterinary medicine. The Managing Veterinarian is also responsible for creating an environment of teamwork in which quality medicine and exceptional client service are consistently delivered to our clients and their pets. Interest in surgery is great but not necessary. If you’re someone who prefers wellness and sick appointments, we are open to that as well. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli. Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Mount Joy, PA | Full-Time Veterinarian opening in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. No Emergency or oncall. Companion Animal Hospital was founded in 1995, and it has continued to grow and serve the community ever since. We are a staff of 8 doctors, 15 veterinary technicians as well as qualified receptionists and veterinary assistants. We provide a broad range of veterinary services including wellness care, acupuncture, in house laboratory, digital radiology, nutritional counseling, orthopedic surgery including tplo., reproductive health and services, and a canine rehabilitation program. We see dogs, cats, pocket pets, chickens, potbellied pigs and work with the local wildlife rescue. Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

Pittsburgh, PA| Full-Time Pittsburgh Premier Veterinary Care & Rehabilitation is a 2-doctor practice looking for another Associate Veterinarian. Our hospital includes 5 exam rooms, surgery suite, dental area, radiology suite (including ultrasound), and an open treatment room concept. Rehabilitation equipment includes underwater treadmill, dry tread mill, companion animal laser, and therapeutic ultrasound. We offer urgent care type appointments as well as sick and well visits. Patients consist mainly of canines

and felines, but some exotic animals are seen at doctors’ discretion. No weekends or on-call. All levels of experience are welcome to apply! Please call Kelli Dowhaniuk at 818-309-3709 and/or email Kelli.Dowhaniuk@nva.com.

New Tripoli | Full-Time

Country Doctor Veterinary Hospital is an AAHA certified, busy small animal practice located in beautiful rural New Tripoli near Allentown, Pennsylvania. We are seeking a full-time veterinarian to join our privately owned practice. We are well-established and respected within our community. Our mission is to practice quality veterinary medicine in a warm, friendly atmosphere that extends to clients and staff alike. Communication is highly valued within our work environment and we strive to maintain an atmosphere that is friendly and fun. We would love to welcome a team-oriented individual, with good communication skills who is enthusiastic about their profession. We are encouraging of any special interests that fit with our style of medicine and that could enhance our current services. New graduates are encouraged to apply and we are happy to mentor. We offer a competitive salary and benefits. The schedule is a 4-day work week with alternating Saturdays and no after-hour emergencies. We are willing to discuss schedule accommodations as required. For more information on the position contact Madeleine Huyett at mhuyett@cdvh.com or call 610-2982520.

Technicians

Carlisle

We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant or Technician to Assist with exams, treatments, surgical procedures, Handle and restrain animals safely and humanely • Administer medications, vaccines, and other treatments • Perform laboratory tests and radiographs • Monitor and care for hospitalized animals • Maintain accurate detailed medical records • Qualifications: • Completion of veterinary assistant or technician program preferred • Certification as Veterinary Technician (CVT, LVT, or RVT) a plus • Minimum 1 year experience working in veterinary

clinic or hospital • Strong knowledge of animal handling and care • Ability to lift animals and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. https://www.carlislevet.com/ forms/employment-application

Practices/Equipment For Sale

Penobscot County, Maine

2700 sqft small animal general wellness practice sits on a 21-acre property. Newly renovated 2400 sqft house connected to the hospital, 960 sqft garage with apartment above, and a greenhouse. Real estate is available. 2 exam rooms with an onsite crematory. Collections are over $700K. Services over 1600 active clients. Contact Rohit - 234-353-3268 or rohit@ omnipg-vet.com. (MEV101)

Roaring Spring, PA

For Sale by Owner: Small animal practice established for approximately 30 years in south central Pennsylvania. Hospital is available for lease or purchase with many options to expand. Currently provides health and wellness, radiology, full in house Idexx lab, ultrasound, dental, and surgical procedures. Facility has a large OR and treatment area, 3 exam rooms, grievance room, pharmacy, separate dog and cat kennels, isolation, employee break area, and private office. Open to owner financing or straight buyout. Current owner willing to work with new owner to provide a smooth transition. Opportunities with this practice are only limited by the purchaser. Please call Rebecca Harden at 814-224-5094 and/or email cah@ atlanticbbn.net.

Southeast of Erie

PRACTICE FOR SALE (PA-9340) - Small animal practice southeast of Erie grossing almost $769K. Well-equipped with Idexx VetLab and LaserCyte, CR X-ray, digital dental, and ultrasound. Practice is offered at $550K and real estate is offered at $375K. Call for more information. Contact TPSG Great Lakes (www.tpsgsales.com) at 440-933-4522 - Dr. Kurt Liljeberg (kurt@tpsgsales.com) or Bret Halishak (bret@tpsgsales.com).

Western Pennsylvania

BUYING OR SELLING A PRACTICE – Buying or selling a veterinary practice? Confused about corporate consolidators? Count on the experience of Total Practice Solutions Group – Great Lakes. Contact TPSG Great Lakes (www.tpsgsales.com) at 440-9334522 - Dr. Kurt Liljeberg (kurt@tpsgsales. com) or Bret Halishak (bret@tpsgsales. com).

Lehighton, PA

OWNER IS WILLING TO NEGOTIATE. Great building for sale. Perfect for any professional office; dental, medical, doctor, chiropractic office. Very professional and clean. Great Location; Plenty of parking;2,400 sq ft of office space; 1.3 acres included. ProfitableLong term- extensive Client list - well established. Business with Real Estate. Please call Glenn Fritts at 610-955-5555 or glenn.fritts@gmail.com.

Relief Veterinarians

Lancaster, York, Dauphin, Lebanon, Berks, Chester Counties

Small animal veterinarian practicing in Lancaster County and the surrounding region. 15 years’ experience working in hospitals in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. I am knowledgeable, efficient, and personable, and I enjoy and highly value client education. I am also flexible and readily able to adapt to various hospitals’ protocols and procedures. Please let me know if I can be of help in providing relief services to your practice. Thank you! Michael Reese Email reeseveterinary@ gmail.com.

In Memoriam

William Samples

Lawrence William Samples Jr., VMD, 81, of Hummelstown, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, July 9, 2024, in the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

Born in Philadelphia, on February 12, 1943, he was the son of the late Lawrence William Samples Sr. and Mildred (Buckley) Samples Anderson.

Larry was a 1961 graduate of Overbrook High School in Philadelphia. In 1966, he graduated from Penn State University, University Park, with a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, and then went on to earn his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania in 1971. Larry spent the majority of his career as a large animal veterinarian helping animals from horses, cows, and others to exotics at Lake Tobias.

Larry was very involved in both his professional and community organizations. He was a member of the following: PA Holstein Association, American Association of Bovine Practitioners, US Livestock Exporters Association, USDA Dept. of Agriculture Animal Plant Health Inspection Service, American and PA Veterinary Medical Associations, Hummelstown Recreation Board, and Overbrook High School Alumni Association where he served as a mentor to students.

Larry loved sports, especially the Philadelphia and Penn State teams. He coached soccer for many years and served as the VP of the Eastern PA Soccer Association. He played rugby while he attended Penn State and remained an avid supporter. Larry helped to develop the first professional indoor soccer team, the Hershey Impact. Larry’s greatest passion of all was spending time with his family.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Anita Michelle Guerdan Samples; three children, Lori Kreider, Denise Ajala, Eric Samples and his wife Cindy; four grandchildren, Kayla and Kristen Ajala, and Liam and Marshall Samples; his brother, Steven Samples and his wife Carol; two nephews, Steven and Andrew and his wife Julie; and his beloved dog, Sammie.

Dr. Bruce A. Bell

Dr. Bruce A. Bell, 57, of Bethlehem, passed away, after bravely fighting leukemia, peacefully on April 2, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 10, 1966, in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, Bruce was a man of exceptional intellect and kindness, whose life was marked by his dedication to his family, his profession, and his passions.

An alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania, Bruce’s academic journey was both diverse and distinguished. He graduated from Wharton Business College and became a CPA. Later he enrolled at Dickinson Law School before pursuing his true calling in animal care at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. This change in career was brought by his unconditional love for Enzo, his first and only beloved dog. His love for Enzo inspired him to change career and answer his true calling. During his years studying as a veterinarian, he met his future wife, Renata, and her cat Ms. Pebbles.

Bruce found his true passion working as a veterinarian at the Easton Animal Hospital. His dedication to animal welfare and his expertise in veterinary medicine earned him the respect of his colleagues and the gratitude of the countless pet owners and animals he helped over the years. Bruce was also a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association, where he contributed to the advancement of veterinary practice.

Bruce’s interests and hobbies were a reflection of his vibrant spirit and love for life. He was an avid baseball card collector, and his enthusiasm for the game was evident in his unwavering support for the New York Mets, though he also held a soft spot for the Philadelphia Phillies. His youthful dream led him to try out for the New York Mets during his college years, a testament to his enduring love for the game.

Bruce was the cherished son of Barry and Ina (Caplan) Bell, who instilled in him the values of compassion and integrity that would guide him throughout his life. He shared over eight years of marriage with his beloved wife, Renata Carneiro whose love, and support were his constant joy. His sister, Marci Levinson, her husband Hal, his niece Anna, and nephew Alex, held a special place in his heart, and together they shared many of life’s most precious moments.

A man of faith, Bruce was deeply connected to his Jewish heritage, which shaped his character and provided a foundation for his life’s principles. His friends and family will remember him as a loving, smart, kind, and friendly man, whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of everyone he knew. His classmates will always remember him for his questions at the end of class.

Dr. Lawrence “Larry”