O V MC AO M M U N I Q U E Vo l u m e X X V I I • I s s u e I I I
Fall 20 1 4
MOBILITY ACT SIGNED BY PRESIDENT | BIG CHANGES TO FOUNDATION | LINK COALITION
THE STATE OF THE FAIR Oklahoma Veter inar ians take extra bios ec ur ity measures to e n sure sw ine s afet y at state fairs in wake of PEDV outbreak. p. 17
what’s inside
Executive Board 2013-2014 President Mark Shackelford, DVM
President Elect
Columns 2
President’s Message
5
State Veterinarian’s Report
Pat Grogan, DVM
8
Substance Abuse
Secretary/Treasurer
11
From the Desk of the Dean
15
AVMA Delegate Update
22
OVTA Report
Yalonda Burton, DVM
Vice President
Rosemarie Strong, DVM
Immediate Past President Greg Campbell, DVM
Dist. Director Rep. Sarah Kirkpatrick, DVM
Features
District Directors
3
Mobility Act Becomes Law
4
Convention 2015
9
New Members
13
Changes to Foundation
17
The State of the Fair
District One Kevin Long, DVM Lauren Johnson, DVM District Two Roger Holley, DVM Ed Gilsleider, DVM District Three Gary Stone, DVM Jim Bentley, DVM
District Four Cade Coppenbarger, DVM Sarah Kirkpatrick, DVM District Five Angie DuBois, DVM Kelly Barger, DVM
Student Representatives Kristen Kemper Kelsie Carisle
19 VCPR 21
Link Coalition
Advertiser’s Index 3 SWVS 6 AVMA-PLIT
AVMA Delegates
7
VAS Inc.
Ken Bartels, DVM Charles Freeman, DVM
12
In Their Face Marketing
20
Pawsitive Steps 5K
24
Heritage College
Executive Director Jana Black
Membership Coordinator Nylia Burch
25 Classifieds
Communications Coord. Josh Hutton
1 OVMA Communiqué
okvma.org
ovma update
President’s Message President detail s State Fair voluntee r oppor tunitees and upcoming e vent s.
I
hope everyone had a productive and successful summer, both personally and professionally. Luckily, we didn’t have the usual weather patterns we have been experiencing in the past few years, having a couple of cool spells and more rain this time around. I had an opportunity to attend the AVMA Convention in Denver July 25-28. I had a chance to sit in on the House of Delegates during their Friday meeting. It was interesting to see the machinations of elections and voting on the various resolutions. There was also plenty of CE opportunities as well. Next year’s meeting will be in Boston and I would suggest going if you have a chance. The Oklahoma and Tulsa State Fair committees have met several times this year and the surgical suites and birthing centers appear to be great opportunities to educate the public about our profession. There will be various displays that will be new this year. Please sign up for either the surgical suite or the birthing center, or both, if you haven’t done so already. The schedules for both fairs can be found on the OVMA website, www.okvma.org. I was able to sit in on a meeting with various trade groups including the Cattlemen’s Association and the Farm Bureau which took place on July 2 at the OBVME offices to discuss the VCPR and its relation to pharmaceutical
okvma.org
prescriptions in the state of Oklahoma. Kudos to board members Jim Lee, Clint Gardner, and Keith Fuchs along with executive director Cathy Kirkpatrick for moderating this session and helping the various groups to understand the importance of the VCPR from a public health standpoint. Jana Black, our executive director, has been attending meetings of two groups that the OVMA is fortunate to be represented as part of the task forces. The first is the Oklahoma Link Coalition (OLC). This is a group of professionals from around the state that are working on the problem of animal abuse and its link to domestic violence, child abuse, and elder abuse. Animal abuse can be an early indicator of future violent behavior, and the OLC is working on the state level to educate the public to be vigilant to this “red-flag” warning. The second task force is the Oklahoma Roundtable for Animal Welfare. This is a group of diverse professionals that is “a consultative forum that meets to discuss the most pressing issues facing Oklahoma animals today”. It includes representatives from the Central Oklahoma Humane Society, the Oklahoma Beef Council, OSU-CVHS, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, Oklahoma Pork Council, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, SpayFirst!, and many others. The OVMA has been very actively
OVMA Communiqué
Ma r k Sha c ke lfo rd , DV M
involved with the state legislature in the past few weeks. Calvin White, our legislative chair, as well as our lobbyists, Clayton Taylor and Jerrod Shouse, have been working very hard on some of the issues that impact us all as veterinarians. One example is the veterinary profession being excluded from legislation that would have required veterinarians to check online an owner’s pharmaceutical purchase history before writing a controlled drug prescription. Thanks to our lobbyists, we were exempt from that requirement unfortunately, that legislation never came out of committee. Our legislative group is constantly on the alert for any issues that come up for our profession, and though not always generally publicized, is certainly working behind the scenes for our benefit. Finally, the Southwest Veterinary Symposium is September 25-28 in Fort Worth this year. I feel this is one of the best meetings in the country, rivaling any national meeting, and Oklahoma is one of the original partner states in the SWVS, so we actually benefit financially every year. Please plan on attending this great meeting.
CONTACT INFORMATION 918 .8 35.2336
ms ha c kd v m @tul s a c ox m ai l .c o m
2
news
Mobility Act Becomes Law Josh Hut t on, Ed i t o r President Barack Obama signed
nized the vital role of veterinarians
on April 12, 2013. It was not report-
the Veterinary Medicine Mobility
in relieving an animal’s pain and
ed by committee until May 20, 2014,
Act (VMMA) into law on Aug. 1.
suffering.
and then quickly passed both houses
The law amends the Controlled
“The health and welfare of our
of congress in July.
Substances Act, allowing veteri-
nation’s wildlife, food animals, and
narians to transport, administer,
even our companion animals depend
AVMA’s members bring forward
and dispense controlled substances
on veterinarians being allowed to do
concerns, we listen; and we work
beyond registered sites, which are
their jobs wherever the need arises,”
extremely hard to ensure that our
often clinics. One of the act’s cospon-
Dr. Cohn said. “On behalf of our
leaders in Washington craft public
sors was Oklahoman Representative
members I’d like to thank the pres-
policies that promote the health and
James Lankford. OVMA lobbied for
ident and congress for allowing us
welfare of animals and advance the
this legislative measure.
complete access to the medications
veterinary profession,” Dr. Cohn
we need to fulfill our oath to society.”
said.
In a press release, AVMA President Dr. Ted Cohn said congress recog-
“This work proves that when
The VMMA was first introduced
IF YOU’D LIKE A COPY OF OVMA’S CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES HANDBOOK CONTACT US AT 405-478-1002
5
reasons you
should attend
enGaGe2014 PARTNER STATES VMA’S:
Offering over 400 hours of Lectures & Labs with more than 50 Continuing Education credit hours Over 225 exhibitors presenting leading edge products and services Budget friendly conference that’s easy to navigate Social networking events like SWVS Stride 5K Fun Run and Golf Tournament
Visit www.SWVS.org for registration details. 3 OVMA Communiqué ENGAGE2014-on-site-4C.indd 1
okvma.org
2/13/14 11:45 AM
covention
OVM A hops back in the s addle for it s 2015 convention.
WILD WILD e are fast approaching our 2015 Convention and a celebration of 100 years of CE brought to you by your organization! We are excited with all the new educational and entertaining aspects we are bringing to your convention in 2015. We will be meeting at the elegant Embassy Suites in south Moore. Embassy is a nice venue that will include your hotel room within a few feet of your meeting rooms. Embassy has an easy-to-navigate floor plan with a restaurant and small store in the hotel for your convenience. It should be simple and comfortable for all to go from CE to hotel and back again in only a matter of minutes. No need to rush. Parking is located adjacent to our hotel in a large suitable parking lot at no cost to the guests and others traveling in from the local area. We look forward to starting the convention on Thursday, January 29th with additional CE in the early afternoon for those arriving on Thursday, the regulatory sessions as with previous
W
WEST
years, followed by a general session that evening. On Friday we have some great CE and are welcoming back our Fun Night Friday to meet with exhibitors and just catch up with colleagues. Come with your boots and spurs as our Wild Wild West theme takes us back in time to the days of saddles and lassos. We are working on getting a band and a boot scootin’ area available for those that want to loosen up. We are also going to have some Zoo Tours available of the new hospital area at the OKC Zoo. Sign up quickly as we feel these tickets may be gone early. Our CE sessions have many new and innovative ideas as well as interactive options. We will be using smartphone polling to answer questions from the speakers during lectures, a dental wet lab, a 3D surgical lecture (where you get to wear the stylish glasses) and our smartphone app will again be available. Some of the speakers to look forward to will include Dr. Rick L. Cowell on cytology and some interesting case
okvma.org
OVMA CommuniquĂŠ
Ya londa Bur t on, DV M OVMA Pre side n t -E le c t
discussions, Dr. Sarah Lyles focusing on equine therio, Dr. Gorczyca on CARTS, Dr. Roussel on case discussion about common mistakes and how to avoid them, Dr. Lionel Dawson, Dr. Kenneth Kwochka on small animal dermatology, Dr. Greenfield on small animal dentistry and a wet lab, and Dr. Bob Larson on various aspects of bovine medicine, herd health and BSE, BVD and BRD. Our registration fees continue to stay extremely affordable and competitive with surrounding states and the caliber of our meeting continues to increase. We are proud to be able to offer our members and veterinarians of our state this opportunity to gain CE, reconnect with old friends and experience new learning situations year after year. We look forward to seeing you at the 100th Annual OVMA Convention January 29-31.
4
usda
State Veterinarian Report Vesicular Stomatiti s spread s and the impor tance of bios ecur it y dur ing e x hibition s . Rod Ha ll, DV M
I
just returned from a week with my wife and four friends on a 50-
foot sailboat. We sailed and motored
tions for them to travel back to Okla-
imal information. It can then be print-
homa are stricter than normal.
ed and emailed to our office instead of
We have been promoting an iPad
mailing a hard copy. Templates can be
among the islands in southeastern
app for completing CVIs and have
saved for clients for which you write a
Alaska, fished, set traps for crabs and
about 10 veterinarians trying it. This
lot of CVIs, eliminating the need for
shrimp, watched whales, bears, bald
app makes it quicker and easier to fill
filling in the same information every
eagles, and other wildlife, hiked, and
out a CVI and automatically sends a
time.
relaxed. It was a great time, and I’m
copy to us. So mailing a copy is not
having trouble focusing on writing this
required. We are one of eight states
CVIs and EIA tests is Global Vet Link,
report.
approved to test this app. When the
and we really appreciate the ease with
As I write this, two of our neigh-
testing is completed and the product is
which it can be used and automatically
boring states, Texas and Colorado, are
tweaked to fix any bugs that are found,
sends information to us. Even though
experiencing significant outbreaks of
it will be released to all states. If you
there is a cost associated with it, many
Vesicular Stomatitis. I wouldn’t be
have an iPad or are considering getting
veterinarians have found they can eas-
surprised if we see cases in Oklahoma
one, write CVIs for food animals, and
ily increase their fees and take advan-
as the summer progresses into fall.
would like to help us develop this pro-
tage of the benefits of the program.
Please be aware of this disease and
gram, please contact our office.
The gold standard for electronic
We have also been working with
call us if you see vesicular type lesions
We are also promoting a program
some veterinarians and producers
in livestock. Advise your clients who
we call States CVI. This is an editable
to help them learn to use hand held
travel to our neighboring states to
PDF document that can be stored on
scanners, PDAs, and electronic tags
check if the county they are traveling
your computer or laptop and filled out
to make entering information for
to is affected by VS. If so, the regula-
with the consignor, consignee, and an-
CVIs, vaccination charts, test charts,
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VESICULAR STOMATITIS USDA FACTSHEET, MAY 2012 Clinical Signs Excessive salivation is the first
How It Spreads Not fully known; insect vectors,
Recommended Action Separate animals with lesions
sign of the disease. Closer exam-
mechanical transmission, and
from the healthy, preferably by sta-
ination reveals blanched and raised
movement of animals are all fac-
bling. Do not move animals from
vesicles or blister-like lesions on
tors. Once disease infiltrates herd,
premises affected by disease until
the inner surfaces of the lips, gums,
it may move from animal to animal
21 days after lesions have healed.
tongue, and/or dental pad.
by contact with fluids.
Use protective measures when handling.
5 OVMA Communiqué
okvma.org
and herd management more efficient.
producers should work extra hard to
There are some really neat programs
educate your clients about the Swine
that can be accessed to assist both
Enteric Coronavirus Diseases and help
veterinarians and producers.
them understand the best practices to
If you have an interest in any of these
prevent taking it home from the exhi-
electronic programs, please contact us.
bitions. Also talk to your clients about
We will come visit you and demon-
issues such as influenza and enteric
strate their use. The benefit to us is
diseases that can be transmitted from
we get information that is much more
animals to people or vice versa. Help
easily and quickly uploaded into the
them understand the dangers and the
database that we must keep for our
need for good sanitation in preventing
disease traceability program.
these infections.
The fall show season is upon us. We should always be aware of and try to educate our clients about biosecurity as it relates to animal disease
Rod Hal l
405.522.0270 rod.hall@ag.ok.gov
and zoonotic disease when livestock and humans comingle at exhibitions.
CONTACTS M i ke H err i n
405-522-6142 michael.herrin@ag.ok.gov
Jus t i n Ro a c h
405-522-8396 justin.roach@ag.ok.gov
A l i c i a G o rc z yc a -So u t h e rl an d 405-522-6136 alicia.gorczyca-southerland@ ag.ok.gov
Ric k Woodbr idge
405-641-9164 ricke.woodbridge@ag.ok.gov
G a r y St one
405-258-8048 gar y.stone@ag.ok.gov
Tom Mc La r t y
Those of you who work with swine
580-334-5266 mclarty@pldi.net
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6
news
Suicide and Mental Well-Being Among Veterinarians A recent study published in The Veterinary Record found that veterinarians are four times as likely to commit suicide as the average person and twice as likely to commit suicide as their human healthcare counterparts. In an effort to assess the issue in Oklahoma and provide solutions, OVMA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Auburn University have partnered to survey veterinarians working in our state. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. It is voluntary and anonymous.
Visit the website or scan the QR code below to take the survey. http://goo.gl/CXjCNr
Oklahoma Health Professionals Program
Tramadol becomes Schedule IV controlled substance The DEA added tramadol, used to treat moderate pain, to their Schedule IV controlled substance list. The change became effictive as of Aug. 18. The DEA recognizes tramadol as an opiate and addictive. Distributors approve the agency’s decision because it creates a consistent schedule across the nation. Veterinarians must be registered with the DEA to prescribe tramadol. Veterinarians who are registered will be able to write prescriptions for the controlled substance.
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abuse. If you have questions, or are seeking help, please contact OHPP today.
(405) 601-2536
DENTALAIRE
hallow ll emc
Donna Hallowell 413.445.4263 phone 413.496.9254 fax
www.vasinc.net • 800-498-5575
hallow ll emc www.hallowell.com
info@hallowell.com
7 OVMA VAS Communiqué qtr pg ad.indd 1
63 Eagle St. Pittsfield MA 01201
okvma.org 3/17/14 11:18 AM
substance abuse
The Motivational Interview C ouns elors stress impor tance of making positive connec tions w ith thos e str ug gling w ith substance abu s e .
Josh Hut t o n , Ed i t o r The open door. They’re always telling
Since 1990 the number of these
dence-based practices and recognizes
you to walk through it—motivational
deaths has tripled. In 2011 alone,
the key role of respectful collabora-
speakers, mentors, teachers—all of
41,360 in people in the U.S. died from
tion.”
them, in hopes you’ll dust the potato
drug overdoses, 80 percent of which
chips off your chest and make the most
determined as accidental.
of opportunities presented. But what
To help those we love when they’re
When friends or families put up walls or justify their behaviors, do not get angry or upset. Instead, demon-
about the sound of the door closing
caught in the throes of addiction, Dr.
strate understanding. Try to put your-
behind you?
Judith Lewis, now retired Professor
self in their shoes. It’s important for
and Chair of Addictions Studies and
them to feel loved. They need to value
swinging shut behind us each time we
Behavioral Health at Governors State
themselves before they can move past
select this one or that one should trou-
University in Illinois, says establishing
addiction.
ble us, but it doesn’t. Nor does the fact
real connections, asking open-ended
that the doors often are identical and
questions, and empathizing are essen-
doors behind them, all the decisions
even lead in some cases to the exact
tial support steps in recovering and
they could have made, no longer
same place,” novelist Richard Russo
maintaining a life of abstinence.
haunt them. They can look back at the
“Perhaps the sound of all those doors
says in his 2007 novel, Bridge of Sighs. As the author illustrates, when the
“21st century substance abuse coun-
Once they’ve done that, all the
pattern of their lives and find the best
selors know that a collaborative and
parts and look forward for a happier,
doors close behind us, our stations in
respectful approach is not just humane
healthier future.
life become more permanent. Fewer
but also effective,” she writes in her
doors stand before us. It is often out of
book Substance Abuse Counseling.
this state, this middle ground of day-
“They are aware that the most success-
to-day that drug problems emerge.
ful interventions are the ones that best
The victims of substance abuse are not limited to the financially desperate
fit the client’s current life situation and concerns.”
or the chronically depressed. In fact,
She continues, saying that Motiva-
the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
tional Interviewing, or MI, is at the
reports most drug-related deaths are
center of helping those struggling with
tied to prescription drugs, often taken
drug problems.
by middle class people with health insurance coverage.
“The new substance abuse paradigm accepts the centrality of evi-
okvma.org
OVMA Communiqué
If you have a problem with substance abuse, please contact a member of the OVMA Outreach for Wellness Committee. Nancy Johnson Robert Poteet Ron Laughlin David Mitchell John Otto Roger Panciera Ed Wagner
405-258-2806 918-749-6588 405-340-1020 918-599-8403 405-329-6889 405-744-4520 918-835-2336
8
new members
WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS Full Name OVMA District Dakota Baker District 2 Michelle Baker District 1 Catrina Black District 4 Carolynne Cash District 2 Heather Crawford District 3 Carolyn Dickinson District 1 Rebekah Heinz District 1 Lisa Kilhoffer District 3 West Therese McKinzie District 3 East Paul Schmitz District 1 James Streck District 3 Justin Wallace District 4 Amanda Wilson District 3 East Todd Yeagley
District 1
Grad Year 2014 2014 2005 1996 2012 2014 2008 2014 2006 1982 2013 2011 2014
School OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL OKL
2009
OKL
2015 OVMA Awards if they dominate, you must nominate. Nominate your peers in the categories of : • Veterinarian of the Year • Companion Animal Practitioner • Distinguished Service • Food Animal Practitioner • Equine Practitioner • Industry Representative Know a special pet? A hero? A service animal? Nominate the pet for OVMA’s Animal Hall of Fame.
let us know at okvma.org
9 OVMA Communiqué
okvma.org
member benefits
OVMA MEMBER BENEFITS
Credit Card Processing Vet Pay Affiniscape Merchant solutions 866-376-0950 Infintech Kevin Walter 888-908-6952
Credit Union
Tinker Federal Credit Union www.tinkerfcu.org
Message Provider Onholdworx Rick Jones 800-460-4653 405-843-4653
Insurance
Texcap-Concord Mike Bass 866-715-0484
The DVM PAC was created in recognition of
Client Financing
Financial Planning AXA Advisors Jack Sullivan 405-285-4500
DVM PAC
CareCredit 800-300-3046 ext 4849 or 714-490-4849
the need to increase political activity and awareness among members of the veterinary medical professions. The non-partisan political
Save enough money to pay your dues.
Veterinary Career Network career.okvma.org
Take advantage of member benefits.
action committee provides financial support for state political candidates. DVM PAC exists through the voluntary contributions of OVMA members. Contributing to the DVM
WHY BE A MEMBER? >>>
PAC reflects your commit-
Let us answer that for you. The Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) is a professional trade organization for veterinarians. The association was formed in 1907 and incorporated in 1934. The association is comprised of over 1,000 individual Oklahoma veterinarians, OSU faculty, veterinary students, out-of-state veterinarians, and allied members. OVMA is your eyes and ears for the industry, your business partner and your source for information, education and legislative representation. In short, it’s your career! The Benefits As part of your membership, you will receive our quarterly newsletter, the Communiqué, updating you with what your fellow veterinarians are doing around the state. You will have access to the DVM Listserve, a way to connect to veterinarians around the state to discuss issues, ideas or comments with your peers. As part of your membership, you will have access to free classified advertising on the OVMA website and in the newsletter. The OVMA also gives you access to a list of relief veterinarians, materials for you to use or borrow for public education and hosts events that allow you to partake in classes and lectures to receive CE hours. okvma.org
OVMA Communiqué
ment and adedication to political activity and education of key issues that affect the veterinary professions. You, as OVMA members, are vital to our political activities and success. We cannot wait until a legislative bill activates us. We must develop and nurture our legislative contacts as often as we can.
10
osu cvhs
From the Desk of the Dean Faculty changes occur at CVHS . Dea n Jea n Sa nde r DVM, MAM, DA CP V
O
ne thing that we can always count
not interact directly but who have a
in town and so received essentially all
on is change. This summer the
great impact on the success of the col-
the cases that required referral from
CVHS has experienced several changes
lege and profession. One of these, Dr.
general practitioners. Today, specialty
that will be of interest to many of you.
Bill Barrow, is retiring after more than
private practices abound and so the
This is because many of these changes
30 years of intensive research in infec-
VMTH must find ways to enhance
involve the retirement of well-known
tious diseases. He held the Sitlington
their services, either through offering
and long standing faculty within the
Endowed Chair in Infectious Diseases,
access to cutting edge treatments de-
Center for Veterinary Health Scienc-
which is a very prestigious honor and
veloped in house and/or providing an
es. One of the most impressive things about this place is that when people come to work here, they stay for most of their professional life. For example,
“THE BRIGHT YOUNG FOLKS STEPPING INTO THESE ROLES ARE FULL OF NEW IDEAS”
Dr. Mary Bowles, who retired this summer, had been here for 40 years
one that was well deserved
even higher level of service to maintain
providing training and mentoring to
based on his continual high
the teaching load needed to train our
numerous veterinary medical students.
level of productivity.
veterinary medical students along with
Not only has she been successful at
All of these well establish faculty
the specialists of tomorrow.
sharing her knowledge and skills, she
will be hard to replace. Higher
So while there is no denying that the
has also served as a great role model
education and our profession have
retirement of these well-known and
for professional behavior serving as a
changed greatly over the last few de-
much beloved faculty members will af-
positive example for how the patient,
cades making recruitment and reten-
fect the CVHS, the bright young folks
owner, and referring veterinarian
tion of highly qualified faculty a chal-
stepping into these roles are full of new
should be treated. Dr. Bob Bahr is also
lenge. Most research funding comes
ideas and are eager to make their mark
retiring after 30 years. He leaves the
from the U.S. government and these
in veterinary medical education. This
radiology service in the very com-
monies have become increasingly dif-
requires the college administration to
petent hands of Dr. Cory Wall. That
ficult to obtain as financial support is
think differently about expectations.
said, Dr. Bahr’s longevity as a faculty
diverted to other areas of societal need.
Because our faculty numbers are small
member within the CVHS speaks to
Also, the increase of specialty veteri-
it is difficult for our clinical sciences
his dedication and desire to make a
nary private practices has changed the
faculty to become deeply involved in
difference in this profession.
landscape for veterinary medical ser-
significant research discoveries, lim-
There are also faculty with whom
vices. At one time, veterinary medical
iting our ability to offer such cutting
most veterinary medical students did
teaching hospitals were the only game
edge technologies and services to
11 OVMA Communiqué
okvma.org
our hospital clients. We are looking
cussions and changes are taking place
at ways we can support these bright
as a result and a follow up survey will
young minds to allow them the oppor-
hopefully find that we have made the
tunity to make these discoveries which
improvements these stakeholders need
will enhance our uniqueness. For
and want.
instance, we hope to hire a research
are engaged with the college—both
faculty to conduct this work while
internally and externally. Without
allowing them to continue to serve the
each of us doing what we do best we
referring veterinarians through their
cannot support this great profession
medical expertise.
as we want to do. We hope to continue serving our clients, including
our services to our referring DVMs.
the RDVMs, as well as the profession
Some months ago a survey was sent
through new and exciting medical dis-
out to our RDVMs asking for feedback
coveries and unique services. Thanks
on the services we provide to them.
for your involvement and I hope you
The results were eye opening but
will continue to find ways to support
necessary for us to better understand
the college as we create the future of
where we are falling short. Many dis-
veterinary medicine.
okvma.org
Dr. Aaron Herndon is a lecturer in Small Animal Internal Medicine and a PhD candidate in Veterinary Biomedical Sciences.
In short, we are grateful to all who
technician to aid our clinical sciences
We are also focusing on enhancing
Two Veterinarians Join Faculty at Hospital
OVMA CommuniquĂŠ
Dr. J.T. Walker is a lecturer in Small Animal Surgery and an alumnus of the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2004.
12
foundation changes
A Foundation for Animals by Veterinarians OVM F rebrand s, focu s es on helping animal s .
Joe Ca r t e r, DV M Sometimes you need to hit the “refresh” button and so that time has come for the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Foundation. The OVMF was formed over 20 years ago with the purpose of supporting the OVMA in its public relations, educational and scholarship programs. Over the past several years’ it has languished in its efforts, even to the point of not covering its expenses. Therefore, at the beginning of 2014, the OVMF morphed into the Oklahoma Animal Care Foundation. While still being able to help the OVMA with their public relations, educational, and scholarship
programs, the OACF will focus on helping animals. We will start our journey to accomplish this by helping fund Oklahoma’s Pet Overpopulation fund, which is administered by OVMA, and provide disaster relief. Last year we were successful in making the foundation solvent. We were able to generate enough income to cover our expenses. In addition, we had funds available to provide nearly $30,000 in disaster relief along with making a sizeable donation to the Pet Overpopulation fund. This year we are adding a new
project. We are funding the production of a documentary on the impact of the May 2013 Moore tornado’s on animals. This documentary will not only tell the animal story, but also be available as a valuable training tool for first responders. The film is currently in production. We started the year off successfully with a silent auction at the OVMA convention, followed by “Spay Day” and the May Tulsa area golf tournament. We have two addition functions coming up in August, the OKC-area golf tournament and the 5K run in October.
Pick up photos from the 2014 convention today.
VISIT
jerryhymerphotoreflect.com
CLICK “OVMA 2014”
ORDER It’s just that simple.
Join us Aug. 21 at Coffee Creek Golf Course in Edmond, OK. Registration at 7:30 a.m. Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Visit okvma.org for more.
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relief list
OVMA Relief Veterinarian List Statewide • Bill Barrett, AUB ‘69, SA/Mixed, (903) 564-3136 • Jimmy Fuchs, OKL, ‘77, SA / Mixed, 580-225-7784 • Nick Mosier, OKL, ‘09, SA, 580-320-3081 • Elizabeth Calabria, TEX ‘88 SA/Mixed, 580-326-4573 • Chris Bellinger, OKL ‘10 Mixed, 405-481-9392
Oklahoma City Area (405 Area Code unless indicated otherwise) • Heather Cobb, OKL ‘85, SA, 789-2206 • Mary Kay Webster, OKL ‘02, SA, 923-6806 • Tami Spivey, OKL ‘96, SA, 642-3529 • Stacey Riffel, OKL ‘97, SA, 330-8930 • Brandy C. Callison-Combs, OKL ‘08, 918-504-6692 • Jacob Boyer, OKL, ‘05, SA, 255-8506 • Camille Sieger, OKL, ‘09, SA 735-9697 • Kim Weiss, OKL, ‘99, SA/Exotic, 204-0612 • Phil McKinney, OKL, ‘74, SA, 918-694-5566 • Amy Auwarter, GA, ‘04, SA, 706-338-2154 • Elizabeth Calabria, TEX ‘88 SA/Mixed, 580-326-4573 • Chris Bellinger, OKL ‘10 Mixed, 481-9392 • Kyle German, OKL ‘10 SA, 405-596-6758 • Bonnie Boone, OKL ‘90 SA, 405-823-3546
Tulsa and Northeast (918 Area Code unless indicated otherwise) • Charles Clinkenbeard, KSU ‘64, Mixed, 333-5848 • Jonathan Stout, OKL, ‘02, SA, 557-9687 or 396-0216 • Carolynne Cash, OKL, ‘96, SA/Mixed, 346-0823 • Camille Sieger, OKL, ‘09, SA, 405-735-9697 • Phil McKinney, OKL, ‘74, SA, 694-5566 • Elizabeth Calabria, TEX ‘88 SA/Mixed, 580-326-4573 • Chris Bellinger, OKL ‘10 Mixed, 405-481-9392 • Carolyn Fairless, TEX ‘89 SA, 918-625-5200
Foundation Memorials Pet Memorials • 15th Street Veterinary Group • Marlow Veterinary Clinic • Sandy Creek Veterinary Care • The Mobile Pet Vet • James & Esther Perry /Emily Cefalo • Warwick Animal Hospital
Thank you for your support!
IN MEMORY David Cason DVM OVMA member for 32 years OKL - 1981 1955-2015 Dean Naranche DVM OVMA member for 44 years WSU - 1962 1938-2015
To be added or removed from the list, please call the OVMA office at 405.478.1002
okvma.org
OVMA Communiqué
14
avma convention
AVMA Delegate Update Annual convention in retrospec t.
H
The 2014 AVMA House of Delegates (HOD) Summer Session/ Annual AVMA Convention was held from July 23rd – July 29th at the Denver Convention Center. Attendance did not set a record (-7%) but 3986 Veterinarians, 345 students, 465 Veterinary technicians 196, 515 office staff, 1468 spouses, children, guests, and 1354 exhibitors attended. The 2015 meeting is in Boston from July 10 – 14th. Boston is another great city for a convention with lots to do! Consider attending and enjoy some top notch “sell out” CE. As I approach my last year as a member of the House Advisory Committee as well as the OVMA Delegate, I will say being a non-voting member of the Executive Board this past year was VERY interesting. The main theme of the past year was the proposed changes in AVMA governance. But there has been much more discussed within the House of Delegates (HOD) based upon work by the AVMA Executive Board initiatives and AVMA staff involvement. A number of bylaw amendments as well as resolutions were considered, which I will highlight. Two AVMA officers were elected by the HOD: Dr. Rebecca Stinson was elected AVMA Vice-President, and Dr. Joseph Kinnarney was chosen as AVMA President-Elect. Dr. Kinnarney will succeed Dr. Ted Cohn as AVMA President in 2015. Ted was our District IX Director for 6 years before he ran for President. He was succeeded by Dr. Mike Whitehair as District IX Director (OK, CO, AZ, UT, KS) who has worked with us the past 2 years at the state level and coordinated a District IX Caucus at the meeting to
discuss local/state issues to share our concerns at a regional level that affect the profession. The “legislative” process does work if our state AVMA members and non-AVMA members contact Dr. Whitehair, Dr. Freeman (Alternate Delegate), the AVMA officers, and ME with your specific issues. We do need your input as well as the OVMA Board’s input to make this work! A number of AVMA members were running unopposed for AVMA council positions, and the HOD voted to confirm them as a group. Several elections were held for contended positions, and the results were as follows: Dr. Terry Lehenbauer (Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents – former OSU Faculty); Dr. Bruce Coston (Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents); Charles Broaddus (Former OSU Resident), Adam Eichelburger and Mary Grace Stobieski (Council on Public Health and Regulatory Veterinary Medicine); Joni Scheftel (Council on Public Health and Regulatory Veterinary Medicine). In addition, an election was held for one open position on the House Advisory Committee; Dr. Melanie Marsden of Colorado was elected to this position. I want to briefly review the HOD actions and again refer you to the AVMA website for more detailed information. Bylaws Amendment 2 – AVMA Mission Statement and Objective was referred to the Executive Board for return to the HOD in January 2015, with 70.9% of members voting in favor of referral. This was done to “harmonize” this very important document with a new Strategic Management Process (SMP) initiated
Ke n Bart e ls , DV M
by the Executive Board in January. The purpose of the SMP is to develop the AVMA into a more efficient member driven organization. Bylaws Amendment 3 – Council on Veterinary Research was approved on the Consent Agenda. This allows a Veterinary student to be a non-voting member of this Council and hopefully stimulate upcoming colleagues to investigate the options in the profession directed towards research at the local, state, national, and international levels. Bylaws Amendment 4 – House of Delegates generated much discussion. This bylaws amendment was a product of the governance discussion and several years’ work by a task force and team that performed in-depth analysis of the AVMA’s governance system and produced a report with recommendations for governance changes to evolve the organization. The bylaws amendment was amended by the House in response to a change proposed by the House Advisory Committee. Because any decisions made by the HOD are effective immediately, two provisos were made to the bylaws amendment to prevent conflict with the existing HOD until the governance changes could be implemented in a systematic manner. The HOD voted to approve the proposed bylaws amendments, with 64.9% voting in favor. A motion was made to take the final vote on the amended bylaws amendment (that’s a mouthful, huh?) by roll call vote instead of electronic vote, but the roll call vote would require a 2/3 majority to pass and 2/3 was not obtained (57.4% voted in favor). Another motion was made to refer
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the proposed bylaws amendment back to the Executive Board, to be returned to the HOD in January 2015, but 71.8% of the HOD voted in opposition to this motion. In the end, the HOD defeated proposed bylaws amendment 4-2014 with 73.3% voting to defeat it. Complicated? Yes! A challenge? Yes! But we will work to enhance a new initiative to gradually change the governance system so as to enhance membership participation. Amendment 5 – Executive Board was approved to change District Director’s (now called the Board of Directors) terms from six to four years. A proviso to allow currently-serving Board members to complete their terms was also added on the advice of the Reference Committee on Administration and the Parliamentarian. This proposed bylaws amendment was approved with a vote of 92.5% in favor of passage. Moving on to the proposed resolutions: Resolution 3 – Revised Policy on Pregnant Sow Housing was approved by the House, with a vote of 99% in favor. This resolution was submitted by the AVMA Animal Welfare Committee with the intent to allow the animals “normal behavior” during the gestation/farrowing process. The group representing swine practitioners participated in generating this resolution and many of the issues included are already part of swine farming practices observed by producers. Again, get on to the AVMA website to get all the details if this affects you. Resolution 4 – Revised Policy on Declawing Domestic Cats was amended as follows: a new second sentence was inserted that reads, “The decision to declaw a cat should be made by the owners in consultation with their veterinarian.” The amendment was passed with 97.9% in favor, and the HOD unanimously approved the amended resolution. Resolution 5 – Revised Policy on Judi-
cious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials was approved by the House with a vote of 93.2% in favor. We know there is a problem with antimicrobial resistance in all species so this issue puts the decision into the hands of the veterinarian and the VCPR. Resolution 6 – Revised Policy on Veterinary Dentistry was approved by the House with 73.7% vote in favor. Lots of discussion and controversy on this one since it proposed to limit all dentistry procedures performed only under anesthesia. Questions arose on some groups scaling teeth without sedation/ anesthesia and being quite successful IF they worked directly with a licensed veterinarian. Again, read the resolution in its entirety for more answers to questions you may have. AVMA Policies are not mandates but provide evidence based input on best practices to follow, and in Oklahoma we know what dentistry policies initiated by an “intuitive” legislature can trigger. No vote was taken on Resolution 7 (Gestation Crates for Sows), initiated by the Humane Society Veterinary Association because it had been withdrawn by the submitting group prior to Reference Committee meetings. Resolution 8 – Revised Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics was referred to the Executive Board for return to the HOD at the 2015 Winter Session, with 50.2% voting in favor of referral. This was the closes vote I have seen; the controversy was centered on the words “shall” versus “should” with the intent that the principles using the word “shall” imparted a more heavy handed meaning to the principles document. Note this document was considered and revised by the Judicial Council for 4 years prior to submission to the HOD for consideration. The “legalese” in this instance created the furor; we’ll see what develops after the Executive Board makes its
9th annual
move. If you have questions on this one, I suggest you contact our District IX representative on the Board of Directors, Dr. Whitehair. Resolution 9 – Interest Rate on Veterinary Student Loans was approved by the House with 91% voting in favor of passage. This legislative initiative will be a long haul since moving this forward with just veterinary medicine included will be difficult. The idea is to bring professional school loan interest rates in line with undergrad loan rates. As I close, realize the AVMA Government Relations Division in D.C. is working for you as is the AVMA Advocacy Division in Schaumburg. Consider the fact the Veterinary Mobility Act was recently passed by both Houses and was signed. Visiting “the Hill” with the Executive Board in June was quite an experience, especially meeting with our Senate and Congressional members. We did have an OSU Vet Student extern there during that time so Ms. Tayler Foshee (Class of 2015)place and I made the Heritage rounds. TaylerSwas very impressive in 2829 Macarthur her interactions with the congressiookc, ok 73128 nal staff members and represented the profession extremely well! Also realize we have great representation from our OSU SCAVMA group on the national SAVMA level. At the meeting in Denver, Matt Sellers (Class of 2015) and Pete Czajkowski (Class of 2017) represented OSU’s SCAVMA chapter and have been working or are in line for national SAVMA offices! Guess the thin air of Denver generated lots of discussion in the HOD and from me! Our next HOD meeting will be held in conjunction with the Veterinary Leadership Conference (January 8-11, 2015) at the Westin Hotel in Chicago. I anticipate attendance by our OVMA representatives who will hopefully learn a lot!
SUMMER EQUINE conference
okvma.org
OVMA Communique
july 11-12
sign up at
16
THE STATE OF THE FAIR // JOSH HUTTON EDITOR Fairs ac ross the countr y ope rating w ith caution in wake of PEDV outbreak.
S
tate and county fairs across the country are adjusting their swine
center exhibits. As of the Communiqué’s print dead-
it doesn’t affect humans,” Michael Tripp, DVM, said in a phone interview
exhibits because of health risks posed
line, the virus has killed more than
by the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Vi-
seven million pigs, 10 percent of the
rus (PEDV). The virus, which spreads
population in the United States. 7,801
leading swine experts. His credentials
through fecal matter, began affecting
cases have been reported, and the virus
include serving on both the National
the country in 2013.
has been found in herds within 30
Swine Registry board and the Okla-
states.
homa State Swine Health Advisory
State fairs in both California and New York canceled their swine exhibits
“What the public attending fairs
entirely. Fairs in states like Wisconsin
needs to know is that this virus doesn’t
and Virginia removed their birthing
affect the safety of pork products, and
on Aug. 13. Dr. Tripp is one of Oklahoma’s
Board, and he also acts as an advisor to the Oklahoma Pork Council. While many in agriculture believe
17 OVMA Communiqué
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“A PIECE OF INFECTED FECAL MATTER THE SIZE OF A PENCIL ERASER HAS THE POTENTIAL TO CONTAMINATE AN AREA OF 130 CUBIC FEET.” the disease can be spread through the
percent.
At the Oklahoma State Fair, begin-
Symptoms emerge
air, Dr. Tripp said this is not the case.
ning Sept. 11, protocol will be strict.
within the first seven days of
The animal exhibits will be sprayed
vehicles coming to the farm. A piece of
contact. They include dehydra-
down and disinfected regularly. Extra
infected fecal matter the size of a pen-
tion and diarrhea. The swine will
booties will be worn by those in
cil eraser has the potential to contami-
shed the virus completely after 30
the birthing center. Foot baths with
nate an area of 130 cubic feet,” he said.
days.
disinfectant will be used. Signs will be
“The primary spread is people and
Both Drs. Stone and Tripp stressed
on display to educate the public and
Oklahoma in late 2013 it was con-
the importance of avoiding areas with
encourage them to aid in the health
tained to the panhandle. Since that
pigs for 24 hours after visiting an
and safety of the animals.
time, the disease has spread primarily
infected site.
For months after the virus arrived in
Dr. Tripp said the virus is very tough
Besides the handful of state fairs
through commercial areas across the
and takes certain ingredients within
state. Only one case so far has been
that have changed their swine exhibits,
reported in a show pigs herd in the
the rest have continued as normal. No
southern part of the state.
outbreak has occurred at any of the
According to Gary Stone, DVM,
The Oklahoma State Fair will also
riculture, there have been 438 positive
continue business as usual with their
cases of the virus in the state.
exhibit.
state fair committee has a contingency plan to isolate the animals. As for preventive measures against
“As long as we go in clean and stay
disease,” Dr. Stone said at an Oklaho-
clean, we should be fine,” Dr. Stone
ma State Fair committee meeting on
said.
the spread, a vaccine has yet to be introduced. Zoetis is forecasting a vaccine in
OVMA’s state fair committees, both
early 2015. Until then, education and
Oklahoma City and Tulsa, have made
biosecurity are essential to preventing
biosecurity paramount.
the spread of the virus.
Aug. 12. old, the mortality rate approaches 100
Disinfectant. If the virus is detected, the OVMA
with the Oklahoma Department of Ag-
If the piglet is under three weeks
He recommends using DC and R
state fairs with swine exhibits.
“This is typically an infant mortality
the disinfectant to kill.
OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR
TULSA STATE FAIR
SEPT. 11-21
SEPT. 25-OCT. 5
3001 GENERAL PERSHING BLVD OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73107
4145 E 21ST ST TULSA, OK 74114
Sign up to volunteer by visiting okvma.org or calling 405-478-1002. okvma.org
OVMA Communiqué
18
veterinarian-client-patient relationship
Establishing VCPR in Okla. An in-depth look at VCPR , according to the Prac tice Ac t. Ja na B la c k
OVMA Executive Dir.
Do you know what a valid VCPR is? Do your clients? Prior to providing drugs to a client/patient, Oklahoma law requires that a veterinarian have a valid veterinary patient client relationship (VCPR), as defined below. All the following information comes from the Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act.
b. there is sufficient knowledge of the animal or animals by the licensed veterinarian to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal or animals in that: 1. the licensed veterinarian has recently seen or is personally acquainted with the keeping and care of the animal or animals, or
“Veterinarian-client-patient relationship” means when: a. the licensed veterinarian has assumed the responsibility for making medical judgments regarding the health of an animal or animals and the need for medical treatment, and the client, owner or other caretaker has agreed to follow the instructions of the licensed veterinarian; and
2. the licensed veterinarian has made medically necessary and timely visits to the premises where the animal or animals are kept or both, and c. the licensed veterinarian is readily available for follow-up in case of adverse reactions or failure of the regimen of therapy, or has arranged for emergency medical coverage, and
d. the licensed veterinarian’s actions would conform to applicable federal law and regulations; CHAPTER 26. WHOLESALER/ DISTRIBUTOR OF VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION DRUGS 775:26-1-1. Distribution of veterinary prescription labeled drugs (a) This chapter sets forth the rules for compliance with those sections of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act (Pharmacy Act), 59 O.S. Suppl. 2005 §353.1, et seq., which relate to veterinary prescription labeled drugs. A wholesaler or distributor means a person engaged in the business of distributing prescription drugs, including controlled dangerous substances, at wholesale or retail to pharmacies, hospitals, practitioners, government agencies or other lawful drug outlets licensed or permitted under the Pharmacy Act to sell, distribute, deliver or use drugs or medicines. (b) In accordance with § 353.13 G of the Pharmacy Act, “veterinary prescription labeled drugs”, defined as “veterinary prescription drugs” in the Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act (Act), may be supplied by a “wholesaler or distributor”, as those
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terms are defined in the Pharmacy Act, and shipped directly to a client located in the State of Oklahoma pursuant to a written order of an Oklahoma licensed veterinarian, but only after a valid veterinarian client-patient relationship (VCPR), as defined in the Act, has been established and referenced in such written order. (c) No wholesaler or distributor shall sell, dispense or supply a veterinary prescription drug to an owner or their authorized agent in the State of Oklahoma without first obtaining a written order for such drug from an Oklahoma licensed veterinarian with a valid VCPR in place. Certification by a pharmacist prior to dispensing veterinary prescription drugs by a wholesaler or distributor under these rules or under the Pharmacy Act shall not be required. No person shall acquire or use any veterinary prescription drug other than in accordance with the label affixed to the drug container and/or outside of a valid VCPR. (d) Any wholesaler or distributor selling, supplying or dispensing veterinary prescription drugs for use in the State of Oklahoma shall comply with the dispensing and labeling requirements set forth in Chapter 25 of the Oklahoma Veterinary Administrative Rules found in Title 775 of the Oklahoma Administrative Code. (e) Any wholesaler or distributor selling, supplying or dispensing vet-
erinary prescription drugs for use in the State of Oklahoma shall maintain accurate written records containing information relating to the sale and/ or distribution of such drugs, with sufficient detail to specifically identify the drug, the veterinarian ordering the drug, the date of distribution, the quantity of the drug, and the client receiving the drug. Such records shall be maintained by the wholesaler or distributor for a period of five years from the date of distribution of the drug and shall include, but not be limited to, the written order received from the veterinarian, a copy of the drug invoice and the bill of lading or other evidence of shipment. The records of a wholesaler or distributor selling, supplying or dispensing veterinary prescription drugs for use in the State of Oklahoma shall be available for inspection upon request by the Oklahoma State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners or their designated representatives, during reasonable business hours. (f) A violation of the provisions of the Pharmacy Act pertaining to veterinary prescription labeled drugs, by a person or entity, including an owner, a veterinarian and/or a wholesaler or distributor, shall constitute a violation of the Act. (g) Every wholesaler or distributor selling, supplying or dispensing veterinary prescription drugs for use in the State of Oklahoma shall
flight a
okvma.org
OVMA CommuniquĂŠ
annually notify the Board of the name, address and business telephone number of each sales representative and/or veterinarian doing business in Oklahoma that is employed by or under contract with the wholesaler or distributor, by filing a written notice with the Board no later than January 1 of each year on printed forms provided by the Board for such purpose. Anyone violating the VCPR should be turned into the Oklahoma Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. The board is complaint driven and cannot (exceptions made) investigate unless there is a complaint filed.
PAWS ITIVE STEPS
5K RUN & DOG WALK
Helping low-income families spay and neuter their pets
Join us for a 5K and one-mile dog walk. Enter your pet in our dog costume contest! Prizes will be awarded. Saturday, October 11, 2014 Wiley Post Park OKC First race at 9:00 a.m. okvma.org facebook.com/pawsitivesteps5k
Sign up today for
$35 20
link coalition
Stopping Violence at Its Source OV MA joins Link C oalition to help public unde rstand the connec tion between animal abu s e and human v iole nce .
M
Le sa St a ubus, DVM OVMA Anima l We lfa re Commit t e e Ch a i r
ost of us have seen the bumper stickers that say
“people who abuse animals rarely stop there.” This couldn’t be truer. The link that exists between animal abuse and domestic or interpersonal violence, has been clear for quite some time now. Evidence has demonstrated a strong link between animal abuse and other crimes, including domestic violence, child maltreatment, and elder abuse. When animals are abused, people are risk. When people are abused, animals are at risk. The National Link Coalition has been developed to create a collaborative network of human social service workers, animal welfare interests, and
times leads to animal abuse. How
seek veterinary care. They often act
people around that child respond to
genuinely concerned and appear to be
the incident has a huge effect on the
disconnected from the abuse itself. If
future development of this behavior.
there is a strong suspicion of animal
It is very important to the healthy
abuse the veterinarian must report it.
development of children to let them
This is our legal obligation according
know in no uncertain terms that
to our practice act. We are also pro-
animal abuse is unacceptable. It is
tected from legal ramifications that
well documented that the majority of
could result if the allegation is found
serial killers had a history of animal
to be untrue. Admittedly this can be
abuse in the past, often unchecked
a sticky situation with a client. The
by those around them. Animal abuse
recommendation is to remove the
“VETERINARIANS ARE OFTEN THE FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE FOR ANIMALS IN ABUSIVE SITUATIONS.”
law enforcement to work together to stop violence against people and animals. Understanding this link is important to help with early detection and treatment of offenders. People working in the social services have long understood that animal abuse is often the tip of the iceberg and a strong indicator of possible domestic violence. Law-enforcement officers are becoming increasingly aware that animal abuse is a sign of family violence and dysfunction and a red flag for other violent behaviors. The curiosity of children some-
committed by children is one
client from the animal’s presence, and
of the strongest and earliest
contact law-enforcement. Knowing
indicators of conduct disorder,
that animal abuse is so closely linked
often beginning as early as six and
with human abuse can empower the
half years of age. Early intervention
veterinarian to protect not only the
is crucial to correct this behavior. It
animal but others in the family and
is also well known that children that
community.
witness animal abuse are at a much
In cases of domestic violence it is
higher risk for becoming violent
not uncommon for the perpetrator to
offenders, being desensitized by the
threaten or injure a pet to maintain
violence.
dominance and control over others
Veterinarians are often the first
in the household. Animals are often
line of defense for animals in abusive
injured with the clear message that
situations. It is interesting that per-
“you will be next.” Dozens of studies
petrators of this abuse frequently do
have shown that victims are often
21 OVMA Communiqué
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ovta reluctant to seek shelter because they don’t want to leave their beloved pets behind in a dangerous situation. It is also well known that when animal abuse is occurring in the home the likelihood of domestic violence becoming lethal is greatly increased. There’s a national movement in human sheltering to provide safe haven for the pets of those who are the victims of abuse. Some of these involve foster homes, and some shelters are starting to build kennel facilities within their walls to encourage families to seek the protection they so desperately need. Veterinarians have an important responsibility in detecting and reporting animal abuse. Increasingly, continuing education is being offered in forensics to give veterinarians the tools they need to help detect this criminal violence. Local collaboration between veterinarians, social services, law enforcement and animal welfare interests is essential to help decrease this dangerous and self-perpetuating problem in our country. The Oklahoma Link Coalition has been recently formed to assist in this process. Interested parties are encouraged to join us as we develop a plan for our state. Contact Jana Black at the OVMA for upcoming meeting times. For more information about the link between animal abuse and violence against people please visit www.nationallinkcoalition.org.
okvma.org
OVTA Report OV TA to celebrate National Vete r inar y Technician Week in O c tobe r. Chr ist e n Puc ke t t -Smit h B S, RV T It’s August and every year around this time, I write about National Veterinary Technician Week. It’s sponsored every year by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians of America (NAVTA). It is celebrated every year during the third week of October. This year, it is October 12th-18th. National Veterinary Technician week (NVTW) serves as an advertising campaign and an incredible celebration for those involved in our profession. We utilize this event as a tool to educate the public on what veterinary technicians can do. What makes a veterinary technician different from a veterinarian, or an assistant? In the clinical world, we as veterinary professionals understand the role of each player in our work environment as well as the importance. Do your clients? Do your clients value the registered veterinary technician as you do in your practice? As a profession do we reinforce this value and professional on a daily basis? How can you promote this idea throughout your clinic? This is above all, a time to celebrate! What a wonderful profession we have chosen to work in? At the end of the day, we cherish what we do for our clinics, our relationships with our colleagues, OVMA Communiqué
patients, and clients. Last year, at Murray State College, we celebrated NVTW with our students, balloons, and cake. It came at a nice time in the semester where cake was greatly appreciated! The NAVTA poster for this year’s NVTW reads, “What does a Vet Tech Do?” The words, “nurse, surgical assistant, rehabilitator, anesthetist, phlebotomist, nutritional advocate, dietician, educator, x-ray tech, massage therapist, dental hygienist” can be read. I personally feel a sense of overwhelming pride for my profession. When people come to our building wanting a tour, I always ask them, “How much time do you have?” I could spend hours talking about veterinary medicine and the role of the technician. I love educating the public about what we can do. I know that same passion drives all the technicians of Oklahoma. OVTA would like to wish the registered veterinary technicians, a very appreciated, Happy Veterinary Technician Week. We would love to hear and see how you celebrate the technicians in your clinic! Please email cpuckettsmith@ mscok.edu your celebrations. Happy Veterinary Technician Week!
22
annual checkups
Partners for Healthy Pets America’s veterinarians are taking aim at reducing the rate of preventable diseases among cats and dogs by urging pet owners to schedule veterinary checkups at least once per year. Many practicing veterinarians are seeing increases in pet obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis, and heart disease among America’s pets – conditions that can shorten our pets’ lives. That is why pet health experts have partnered in a comprehensive effort to convince pet owners that annual checkups can help ensure that their pets live happier, healthier lives. “Annual veterinary checkups are as important as food and love to a pet’s health and well-being,” said Ron DeHaven, DVM and Chairman for Partners for Healthy Pets. “Many pet owners are either too busy or just
skip annual checkups. That’s why we are campaigning to urge pet owners to make annual checkups a habit and schedule at least one per year,” said DeHaven. He explained that only veterinarians have the training to identify and treat preventable diseases and conditions that can lead to better, less costly outcomes for pets. “None of us want harm to come to our animals,” said DeHaven. “That’s why we’re urging pet owners to take the simple step of scheduling regular veterinary checkups for each of their pets. A checkup at least once a year is as important as food and love for your pet. Don’t miss the opportunity to do one of the most important things you can do for them.”
partnersforhealthypets.org
CATTLEMEN’S CONVENTION WORKERS Dr. Mike Tripp Dr. Cade Coppenbarger Dr. Mark Barker Dr. Matt Barker Dr. Jeremy Schneider Dr. Pat Edmonds Dr. Joe Max Freeman Dr. Keith Fuchs
Dr. Stanley Pope Dr. Carl Manske Dr. Bruss Horn Dr. Fred Reuter Dr. Lyndon Graf Dr. Tristan Graf Dr. Shaun Sweiger
NOMINATIONS
Head over to the Members Only section at okvma.org to nominate your peers for leadership positions, 2015 Convention Awards, and nominate special pets for the animal hall of fame.
>>>OVMA THANKS YOU
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new website
OVMA Launches Redesigned Site We’ve launched a redesigned website! We hope the site both user friendly and informative.
• Renew Membership • Access Member Directory
Check it out today. Whether you are registering for an event, signing up to volunteer for the state fair, or just browsing, we’d love your feedback.
• Download Relief Veterinarian List • Nominate peers for leadership positions
okvma.org
SPEND MORE TIME BEING A VETERINARIAN According to the AAHA Scientific Proceedings: “Veterinarians spend more time doing nursing and technical duties than they do performing the duties of leadership and diagnostics.” “As long as the veterinarian has to perform like a technician, he will always be paid like a technician.” “A Veterinary Technician is trained to do the nursing and technical procedures so you can get back to diagnosing, prescribing, ordering treatments, actual surgical procedures, and client nurturing.” “The more successful practices have more technicians and support per veterinarian and usually allocate more resources for qualified staff. This in turn allows the veterinarian to see more patients and perform more services per patient.”
AT HERITAGE COLLEGE · Comprehensive curriculum Designed by veterinarians and veterinary technicians
· Extensive hands-on training · Program can be completed in under 2 years · Extremely competitive tuition
(2009 AAHA Scientific Proceedings)
Call for Veterinary Technician Program Information:
888-833-4733
7100 I-35 Service Rd #7118 Oklahoma City, OK 73149
okvma.org
SEND YOUR VETERINARY ASSISTANT TO VETERINARY TECHNICIAN SCHOOL
OVMA Communiqué
· Training is designed to meet AVMA requirements Heritage College has applied for accreditation by the AVMA-Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities Lic. By O.B.P.V.S.
24
classifieds
Classified Ads Looking for Full-Time RVT Are you a registered veter-
We provide many services
inary technician looking for
such as wellness examina-
a new and exciting oppor-
tions, immunizations, sur-
tunity? Are you looking
gery, radiology, an in-house
for a place with continual
laboratory and boarding.
opportunities to learn? Well,
Our practice has a strong fo-
here it is! All About Animals
cus on canine rehabilitation,
Veterinary Hospital, located
with a variety of advanced
in Claremore, OK, about
equipment and plans to
30 minutes from Tulsa, is
expand with a state of the art
seeking a self-motivated
rehabilitation facility.
dedicated, enthusiastic pro-
The ideal candidate must
fessional to join their team as
have great work-ethic, pos-
a veterinary technician.
sess strong customer service
Claremore is a vibrant
skills and be client and team
community known for quiet neighborhoods and bustling
focused. Qualified applicants will
business districts. With
have an interest in canine
many community groups
rehabilitation, be capable of
and cultural activities, we of-
collecting and running labo-
fer something for the entire
ratory samples, and placing
family. The position is full
IV catheters. Weekends and
time and will provide work
holidays will be required
weeks averaging 35-40 hours
when cases dictate.
per week. We are a 1-doctor, exclu-
Candidates must be an LVT/RVT/CVT. Experience
sively small animal practice
with AVImark software a
that specializes in providing
plus.
high quality, compassionate
Full-Time Benefits include:
and convenient care for our
-Paid Time Off
patients. We recognize the
-Paid Holidays
importance of the relation-
-Veterinary Services at a
ships between humans and animals and we see our clients and patients as extended family.
reduced rate -Paid annual license and membership fees -Continuing Education
allowance
share our philosophy, please
-Incentive Program
email your resume to tpat-
You can find us on the
tondvm@sbcglobal.net or
web at www.aaavetclinic. com. If you would like to work in our state-of-the-
fax it to (918) 343-2506. For questions call 918343-9130.
art veterinary hospital and
Practices for Sale in Oklahoma and Texas Oklahoma: Oklaho-
Texas: Jackson County -
ma County – Profitable,
Profitable SA is 2,500sf, LA
well-established Small
portion is 2,368sf. TX1.
Animal hospital on a busy
PS Broker, Inc.
split highway. Efficiently
psbroker.com
designed 4,500sf facility w/
info@psbroker.com
RE. 2-exam rooms. New
For questions call Sally
computer stations use Avi-
Goodale at 800-636-4740
mark Software, new roof,
ext. 3.
new sign. OK2.
Nonin Life Sense Monitor for Sale Nonin Life Sense Veterinary Anesthesia Monitor model LS1-10R for sale for $1250.00. Measures HR, RR, O2, and mainstream CO2. Brand new O2 sensor clip, silicon protective case, portable and
works on small or large animals, carrying case included. Also has many extra filters, hoses, etc. Call Mika Ford at 918-455-4144 or email isah08@windstream.net for more.
Seeking Full-Time Associate Veterinarian Care Animal Hospital is seeking a full time associate veterinarian for a companion animal prac-
tice in Tulsa. Contact Mark Higgins, DVM at drhiggins@tulsacarevets. com for information.
25 OVMA CommuniquĂŠ
okvma.org
Classified Ads Night Tech Needed
BluePearl Veterinary Partners is a leading proNight tech needed at Vet ER in NOKC. Must be vider of specialty services, owned and operated by self-motivated and able to work independently. Strong veterinarians and veterinary professionals. We are technical skills, computdedicated exclusively to er proficiency, and client specialty and emergency interaction a must.Minimum 3yr experience. RVT medicine and to helping patients, owners, and primary preferred. Shifts will include nights, weekends and care veterinarians at 38 some holidays. Fax resume locations within 14 states. We confidently offer excitto 405-749-6994 or email vecchokc@gmail.com. For ing, collegial and fulfilling more contact Debbie Mitch- work environments, flexible schedules that allow a focus ell at 405-749-6989. on professional developHiring Emergency Vet ment and quality of life, BluePearl Veterinary competitive compensation Partners is expanding in and benefits. Oklahoma City! We are If you are interested in seeking an Emergency Cli- discussing the position nician with internship and/ further, please contact or equivalent experience to Mairim Gersholowitz at join our growing team. Mairim.Gersholowitz@
Important Dates Oklahoma State Fair Sept. 11-21, 2014 Tulsa State Fair Sept. 25-Oct. 5, 2014 Fall Conference Nov. 13, 2014
Join us at OSU CVHS for the annual fall conference. Catch up with classmates, and pick up some CE.
BluePearlVet.com or 813.549.6961. Your confidentiality will be respected. Please visit us at www.bluepearlvet. com.
Full- or Part-time Vet Needed Looking for an experienced veterinarian to work in a well staffed and equipped progressive exotic and small animal practice in Stillwater, OK. Base salary plus production bonus. Base salary determined from experience. Interview and Resume required. Send resume to osuvetgal09@yahoo.com or P.O. Box 1813 Stillwater, OK 74076 or contact Jim at 405-880-3275.
Travel to Ft. Worth for this year’s symposium, featuring extensive CE for your whole practice team. Registration is open. Visit swvs.org
PAWSitive Steps 5K October 11, 2014
Join the foundation at Wiley Post Park for a 5k or 1-mile dog walk along the Oklahoma River. “Like” us on Facebook at facebook.com/ pawsitivesteps5k
100th Annual OVMA Convention Jan. 29-31, 2015 • Embassy Suites Norman, OK
okvma.org
Managing Editor Jana Black Editor Josh Hutton The OVMA Communique is the newsletter of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association. The editor reserves the right to edit copy according to space and contact guidelines and limit advertising space for single advertisers as appropriate. Opinions expressed in these contents are strictly those of the author(s) and are not necessarily endorsed by OVMA.
Send news and advertising to:
For more details visit okvma.org
SWVS September 25-28
OVMA Communique
OVMA Communiqué
OVMA P.O. Box 14521 Oklahoma City, OK 73113 Phone: 405.478.1002 Fax: 405.478.7193 email:admin@okvma.org
Advertising rates available upon request Submission Deadlines Spring Issue............Feb. 1 Summer Issue.........May 1 Fall Issue.................Aug. 1 Winter Issue..........Nov. 1
26
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