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mich igan veter inary med ical assoc iat ion
in this issue . . . 5 Veterinary Student Debt
6 Rabies: What you need to know
8 The Legal Requirements of Veterinary Medical Records
10 Mandatory CME
11 Why I Want to be more like my dogs!
13 Need Help? MVMA’s A Team
14 Three Reasons Why Pet Insurance Should Matter to You!
16 Great Lakes Veterinary Conference
19 Members in the News
21 Serological Responses to Canine Vaccination
24 Top 11 Reasons to be an MVMA Member
back cover IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
continued on next page .
i can’t tell you how excited I am to be the new CEO of the MVMA. This is such an incredible organization with members who are dedicated
to their profession and their patients. The Execu-tive Committee and the Board of Directors put their faith in me to continue to grow and expand this organization to better serve you. I have no intentions of letting them, or you, down.
That’s why I wanted to talk to you all directly about my plans for this organization moving forward, and more importantly, about my com-mitment to all of you.
I have been very fortunate to be working as an association executive for the past five years. Prior to that, I spent time as a reporter for the Buffalo Bills, in health care marketing, state politics, and as a television news anchor and reporter both in the Lansing area and the Upper Peninsula. It has been a rewarding career so far with the best yet to come.
MY COMMITMENT TO YOU
volume xvii i · number 2 · summer 2019
I came to the MVMA after five years as the Director of Communications, PR & Marketing for the Michigan Association of School Boards. It was a profession and a job I loved. I wasn’t going to leave for just any opportunity. This one was not only too good to pass up, it was the right one. I have always admired and respected the veteri-nary profession. You’re not in it for the money or the fame, you’re in it because you care. Many of you want to be a part of something bigger than yourselves. I’m no different. It’s why the MVMA was so attractive. It’s an organization based on caring, on selflessness, and on progress. I promise to lead the same way.
I will commit to advancing the profession, to listening to your needs and concerns, and to ensuring all of those needs are not only being met by the
Pictured left to right: Gia, Jessica, Isla, John and Mya.
10
Professional excellence.Compassionate care.
. “My Commitment to You,” from front cover
2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864-3986tel (517) 347-4710 fax (517) 347-4666
e-mail [email protected] web www.michvma.org
facebook www.facebook.com/ilovemyvettwitter www.twitter.com/michiganvma
instagram www.instagram.com/welovemivets youtube www.youtube.com/michiganvmapinterest www.pinterest.com/michvma
Published quarterly in March, June,September, and December.
Deadlines are the first of the preceding month.
editorsJohn Tramontana, CAE • Sheri Fandel
2019 mvma officers & directorsofficers
Dr. Mike Thome, PresidentDr. Melissa Owings, President-ElectDr. Christian Ast, First Vice President
Dr. Erin Howard, Second Vice PresidentDr. Lori Penman, Immediate Past President
Dr. Kathleen Smiler, AVMA DelegateDr. Stephen Steep, AVMA Alternate Delegate
directors representing districtsDr. Megan McQuade, (1) Southern
Dr. Kristin Knirk, (2 & 3) Michiana & SouthwesternDr. Erin Whalin, (4) Jackson
Dr. Larry Letsche, (5 & 9) Washtenaw & LivingstonDr. Tim Duncan, (6 & 8) Wayne & Oakland
Dr. Julie Sherman, (7) MacombDr. Dana Tatman-Lilly, (10) Mid-State
Dr. Susan Schoen Farmer, (11) WesternDr. Joseph Kline, (12 & 13) Saginaw & Thumb
Dr. Anne Shuff, (14) NortheasternDr. Kenny Rogers, (15) Northern
directors representing associationsDr. Jeff Bunn, MI Equine Practitioners
Dr. Lucy Henney, Southeastern Michigan VMA
at large directorsDr. Henry Reinart, Food Animal
Dr. Srinand Sreevatsan, MSU CVMDr. Claire Hankenson, Lab Animal Medicine
layout / designCherie Morehouse/Morehouse Media, Lansing, MI
printing & mailingBRD Printing, Lansing, MI
n The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association represents the veterinary profession in Michigan, advances the knowledge and standards of its membership, and promotes the science, practice, and value of veterinary medicine for the benefit of animal and human health.
MVMA, they’re being exceeded. The staff and I are busy working on new initiatives that will aid us in that venture. We will provide new and exciting continuing education opportunities around the state, we will work harder to advocate for you at the state Capitol, and we will explore new ways of delivering service to ensure our diverse membership is being served responsibly and efficiently. That’s my commitment to you and to this organization.
I promise we will be nimble, we will be attentive, and we will be thorough in our decision-making. It’s our commitment to you. I know this association has a big tent with diverse opinions and thoughts. We welcome all of them. As long as I’m CEO, you will always have a seat at the table. I will always make myself available to you—to listen and to learn.
I look forward to meeting each and every one of you, and to working collaboratively now and into the future. It will be an experience that I believe will help propel MVMA forward and continue its journey as an industry leader. Let’s get to work!
John Tramontana, CAE, is MVMA’s CEO. He lives in DeWitt with his wife, Jessica, daughters Isla (7) and Gia (4), and dog, Mya. He can be reached at
517.347.4710 or [email protected].
Crank up your clinic’s social media! Share, retweet or repost any of the content the MVMA posts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram on your clinic’s social media!
All information on these sites is for our members to help in sharing news and can also be shared with clients. If you have not done so already, like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ilovemyvet and follow us on Twitter @MichiganVMA and Instagram @michiganvma.
By following the MVMA through these outlets, you will be able to stay current on happenings in Michigan and on the national veterinary medical scene.
Take Full Advantage of Social Media from MVMA!
CHECK OUT MVMA’S SECRET FACEBOOK GROUP, TOO!In addition to all our traditional social media channels, MVMA’s Young Professionals Task Force created a secret Facebook group called “The Michigan Veterinarian.” The group has over 400 members and is a space for the Michigan veterinary community to discuss concerns related to cases, practice, work/life balance and more. Individu-als share both personal and professional challenges to obtain input from others. If you’d like to join the group, email us at [email protected] and we will send you an invitation to join. Because it’s a “secret” group, if you search for it on Facebook, you will not be able to find it.
MVMA WELCOMES 2019
By Kara Henrys
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
10POWER OF
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 3
designed to cultivate leadership skills and provide important real-world learning experiences, the MVMA
Power of 10 Leadership Academy (POTL) provides 10-15 recent graduates with four leadership development sessions over a year-long period. MVMA members from any practice type or career path are invited to participate.
On April 3, 2019, our new POTL members joined a network of peers in a series of
“ I feel honored to be a part of the Power of 10 Leadership Academy where the best young veterinary professionals can collaborate to improve their leadership and life skills. The emerging leaders in this group are not only talented and progressive, but represent the best that this profession has to offer in terms of their drive for continued learning. ~JULIE CAPPEL, POTL FACILITATOR
learning experiences that will create a spirit of community and allow participants to build lasting bonds with other members of the POTL academy. Our first session focused on communication skills and relationship building, both in and outside the practice. Future sessions will include information presented by experts in the areas of financial advice and student debt, legislation and regulation, work/life integration and well-ness, as well as give them access to manda-tory CME credits.
Along with our facilitators Drs. Frank Carmona and Julie Cappel, please help us welcome new academy members Drs. Judy Dunderstadt, Lee Diana, Matt Kuhn, Christina Larsen, Kaye Long, Audrey Lownsbery, Amber Olson, Rebecca Sidor, Ashley Solnik, Misty Sumner, Janeea Wright and LVT, Jessica Gehrke.
MVMA has been hosting these leadership academies since 2012, and we have seen a tremendous positive effect in veterinary prac-tices and in organized veterinary medicine in Michigan. These in-person learning experi-ences are scheduled to minimize the impact on working hours, and the entire program is designed to garner support from practice owners who recognize their key responsibility
in developing human potential.MVMA is proud to be involved in the
POTL Program which is a signature program of the Veterinary Medical Association Execu-tives (VMAE). It has been in place for eight years and MVMA is one of 28 VMA's that have implemented this successful program. This curriculum and learning environment result in an incredible group of high-energy, enthusiastic recent graduates who become active in our Association and spread the word about the wonderful work our members do! POTL is a way to show MVMA’s commitment to helping recent graduates develop foundational skills in leadership, communications and business that will advance their individual success. It also gives our leadership an opportunity to have a much deeper understanding of what recent graduates find to be relevant and meaning-ful in their relationship with the MVMA and with the veterinary profession.
Participants receive full tuition scholarships to the program, and POTL is generously supported by the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine.
4 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 5
i am writing in regard to the article in the Spring 2019 issue of The Michigan Veterinarian. I wish to applaud our asso-
ciation for initiating a member-task force on this urgent topic and I intend to volunteer to participate. I especially appreciate that the co-chairs (Drs. Ast & Whalin) have pro-vided a topline overview of the seriousness of the issue. Because many of my Michigan colleagues may not have an understanding of the scope of student debt, I’d like to provide some historical perspective.
This is NOT a new problem. Prior to the “Fix the Debt Summit” at MSU in April 2016, there were many efforts to bring the challenge in front of the profession.
n Resolving student debt issues was one of the six primary focuses of my term as AVMA President (1996–1997).
n From 2008 to 2013, a collaboration of several practitioners and academics (Drs. Bob Brown, Dennis McCurnin, Paul Pion, and Jim Wilson) hosted an annual “The Elephant in the Room Symposium” at NAVC.
n One of the most impor-tant strategic goals that emerged from the North American Veterinary Medical Educational Consortium (2009–2011) related to developing an economically viable education system, for both colleges of veterinary medicine and veterinary students.
In contrast to what I would expect in a usual supply and demand market (my simplistic understanding is that when the supply increases, the cost would decrease), the cost of a veterinary education has continued to rise, even
VETERINARY STUDENT DEBTBy Dr. Mary Beth Leininger
if implemented, could start reversing the course of this challenge. But many of these ideas are activities that only our colleges and AVMA can initiate and we’ve not yet seen any impact.
What can you and I do? Regardless of where we are in our professional life, each one of us can make a difference TODAY by helping fund scholarships at our alma maters. According to the winter 2018 report from the MSU development office, every $1 in scholarship money provided to a veteri-nary student will remove $2.30 from that student’s educational debt…I’d say that’s a pretty good investment in our future, don’t you?
Let’s start today!
Dr. Mary Beth Leininger is a life member of the MVMA and lives in Kansas. She can be reached at 785.221.3095
with the exponential growth in the number of veterinary schools that students now choose from.
n In 1995, average student debt (30 accred-ited veterinary schools) was $45,000.
n In 2008, the average student debt was approximately $107,000 while the num-ber of accredited veterinary schools had increased to 40.
n In 2018, average student debt (as an example, at MSU) was approaching $190,000 and the number of accredited veterinary colleges reached 49.
This “educational loan monster” is not a new phenomenon. The profession has talked about this challenge for decades. As Drs. Ast and Whalin indicated in their article, there have been LOTS of ideas that,
6 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
we remain fortunate in Michigan that we are, in general, only seasonally impacted by rabies,
still free from raccoon-strain rabies, have primarily bats reported positive for rabies, infrequently have cases of rabies in livestock or domestic animals, and have laws requir-ing rabies vaccination of nearly all dogs liv-ing in and being imported to Michigan. In addition, Michigan has strong rabies related programs in the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Michigan Depart-ment of Natural Resources plus a good network of local public health and animal control agencies. We also have a strong wildlife surveillance program conducted by USDA Wildlife Services. To top it all off, there is a cadre of MVMA members who maintain state situational rabies awareness through discussion at MVMA Public Health Committee meetings. With all that in the
RABIES: what you need to know
By Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPMMVMA Staff
disease prevention and control toolbox, though, rabies still pops up exposing both animals and people. In 2018, there were 79 positive rabies cases (77 bats, 2 skunks). This was an increase from the 38 cases in 2017 (35 bats, 1 cat, 2 skunks). As of April 15, 2019, there were 4 positive rabies cases (3 bats, 1 skunk).
Now that summer is upon us so is the sea-son of increased rabies transmission, more rabies testing, more animal and human exposures, and likely more rabies questions coming your way. It is time to be vigilant in thinking about rabies and how to handle potential rabies exposures to both animals and humans. Never be complacent when it comes to rabies.
As a refresher, here are some of the rabies related questions that come to the MVMA office along with recently updated responses. There are links in this article to additional resources. You can access this article on the MVMA website to access the links.
IS RABIES VACCINATION REQUIRED
FOR ANIMALS IN MICHIGAN?
Rabies vaccination, with few exceptions, is required by state law for dogs and ferrets. Local municipalities may have require-ments, too. A few local municipalities require rabies vaccination for cats. Rabies vaccination of dogs is tied to dog licensing. Dogs may be licensed as early as 16 weeks of age, must be licensed by 6 months of age, and must be kept current on rabies vaccina-tions. Proof of rabies vaccination, with few exceptions, is required for licensing. Ferrets (except those at research facilities) over 12 weeks of age are required to be kept current on rabies vaccinations.
WHO CAN ADMINISTER A RABIES
VACCINATION?
Rabies vaccinations for dogs must be given by a licensed and accredited veterinarian. The accreditation requirement is in PA 339 of 1919, the Dog Law:
287.266 Sec. 6 (8): The owner of a dog that is required to be licensed under this sec-tion shall keep the dog currently vaccinated against rabies by an accredited veterinarian with a vaccine licensed by the United States department of agriculture.
The Michigan Department of Agricul-ture and Rural Development (MDARD) has additional information on their website https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDARD/bulletins/22d7533. MDARD does advise that a licensed and accredited vet-erinarian may direct a Michigan licensed
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 7
veterinary technician to administer a rabies vaccination to a dog as long as the licensed and accredited veterinarian has first examined the animal and is close enough to observe and monitor the veterinary technician. The licensed and accredited veterinarian must issue and sign the rabies certificate.
Rabies vaccinations for other animals must be given by a Michigan-licensed veterinarian or as otherwise allowed by the Michigan Public Health Code. A licensed but not accredited veterinarian may direct a Michigan licensed veterinary technician to administer a rabies vaccination to an animal other than a dog as long as the licensed veterinarian has first examined the animal and is close enough to observe and monitor the veterinary technician.
WHAT ARE THE PROTOCOLS FOR
ANIMAL BITES AND SITUATIONS
WHERE ANIMALS ARE POTENTIALLY
EXPOSED TO RABIES?
The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) provides extensive written guidelines on animal rabies. The State of Michigan developed a flow chart (see Guidance Documents and Educational Materials in the rabies section of the Michigan Emerging Diseases website) on how to handle cases of animals biting humans (or other animals) and cases of com-mon domestic animals being bitten by wild animals. There is an additional flow chart for exotic and zoo animals.
ARE ANIMAL BITES REPORTABLE IN
MICHIGAN?
Yes, the Michigan Public Health Code requires that any animal bite be reported to the public health agency where the bitten person resides, as well as where the bite oc-curred, within 24 hours of the bite incident. [R325.180 (Rule 10) (6)]. The purpose for this reporting is to allow for rapid assess-ment of the risk for rabies exposure, and if necessary, arrange for the capture and confinement of a live dog, cat, or ferret for a
Vaccinate Your Pets
Rabies can be this close.
You are at risk for rabies because of your close contact
with your pet.
Your pets and other domestic animals can be infected when they are bitten by rabid wild animals.
Visit your veterinarian with your pet on a regular basis and keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all cats, dogs and ferrets.
Maintain control of your pets by keeping cats and ferrets indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision.
Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or vaccinated regularly.
Call animal control to remove stray animals from your neighborhood since these animals may be unvaccinated or ill.
There is no postexposure treatment available for animals as there is for humans.
Protect Your Pets and Those You Love1
2
3
4
5
6
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Serviceswww.health.mo.gov/rabies #1102 9/13
Rabies can be this close.
Your pets and other domestic animals can be infected when they are bitten by rabid wild animals.
Visit your veterinarian with your pet on a regular basis and keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all cats, dogs and ferrets.
Maintain control of your pets by keeping cats and ferrets indoorsand keeping dogs under direct supervision.
Seek advice from your veterinarian if your pet is bitten by a wild animal.
If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical advice. Bites are reportable to your local health
Protect Your Pets and Those You Love
1
2
3
4
5
Poster adapted from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
June 2019
department.
Vaccinate Your Pets
Rabies can be this close.
You are at risk for rabies because of your close contact
with your pet.
Your pets and other domestic animals can be infected when they are bitten by rabid wild animals.
Visit your veterinarian with your pet on a regular basis and keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all cats, dogs and ferrets.
Maintain control of your pets by keeping cats and ferrets indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision.
Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or vaccinated regularly.
Call animal control to remove stray animals from your neighborhood since these animals may be unvaccinated or ill.
There is no postexposure treatment available for animals as there is for humans.
Protect Your Pets and Those You Love1
2
3
4
5
6
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Serviceswww.health.mo.gov/rabies #1102 9/13
10-day observation period, or the laboratory examination of an animal head. You can find your local health department on the
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339--96747--,00.html.
Rule 21 of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ General Rules on Veterinary Medicine discusses the legal requirements for veterinary medical records.3
Subsection 1 of Rule 21 states: “A veteri-narian who practices veterinary medicine in this state shall maintain a medical record for each patient that accurately reflects the veterinarian’s evaluation and treatment of the patient.”4 The first subsection also states the entries in the patient record must be made in a timely fashion.5 Subsection 1 imposes the general obligation to create and maintain medical records for each pa-tient, and it requires medical records to be created in a timely fashion. The best time to create a patient medical record is during or immediately after contact with the patient.
Subsection 2 states: “A record shall be maintained on either a herd or flock, or an individual patient. Records shall be legible and shall be retrievable. A record shall be maintained in either a written, electronic, audio, or photographic form.”6 Subsection 2 requires individual medical records for each patient, unless the veterinarian is examining the animals together as a whole herd or flock. In which case, the veterinar-ian can simply maintain medical records for the herd or flock and need not keep individual medical records on each animal.
The second sentence of Subsection 2
requires that medical records be kept in an easily accessible form. Records must be “legible” so they can be read or used by someone other than the treating veterinarian. Additionally, records must be “retrievable” so that the veterinarian can locate them when needed. Finally, the last sentence of Subsection 2 establishes a liberal standard for the form in which a medical record may be maintained. How-ever, it also implies that any photographs, video, or audio recordings the veterinarian creates during treatment become a part of the patient’s medical record. For example, if a veterinarian were to dictate any treatment or diagnostic notes, the audio recording would become a part of the medical record at least until those notes are otherwise re-created in written form.
Rule 21 leaves certain aspects of recordkeeping up to the discretion of the veterinarian. While Subsection 2 states that records must be “written,” it does not require veterinarians to keep “typed” re-cords. Thus, handwritten notes can satisfy Rule 21 so long as they are legible. Likewise, the veterinarian can choose whether to use specialized recordkeeping software. This software may be helpful for organiz-ing patient records, but notes typed into any regularly available word-processing program would suffice. Additionally, veterinarians may keep partial records on a patient in multiple locations or on multiple computer programs. However, if records on a specific animal, flock, or herd are kept in multiple locations, all of those records are considered part of the official medical record.
In addition to form, Subsection 3 of Rule 21 establishes minimum requirements for what must be included in a medical record.7 Each individual record must document:
it is easy in the course of day-to-day vet-erinary practice to overlook the legal and ethical requirements relating to veteri-
nary medical records. However, in the past, the Board most commonly imposed licens-ing sanctions on veterinarians for issues re-lated to inadequate medical recordkeeping. The Board has only increased its scrutiny of veterinary medical records recently. The Board’s decision to require CME specifically regarding veterinary medical recordkeeping follows the Board’s increased scrutiny.
This article will discuss what the law says—and does not say—about the require-ments placed on veterinarians to create and maintain medical records. The article will offer some advice on best practices you can implement to manage your legal liability. While this article will not satisfy your CME requirement, it will give you a refresher on the topic and will remind you of the most important obligations imposed by the relevant law.
MICHIGAN REGULATIONS PRESCRIBE CERTAIN
BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR CREATING AND
RETAINING VETERINARY MEDICAL RECORDS
Veterinarians must follow the rules and reg-ulations established by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. A violation of a rule is considered grounds for possible discipline against the veterinarian’s license.2
THE MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS IN COORDINATION
WITH THE BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICINE RECENTLY ENACTED NEW CONTINUING
MEDICAL EDUCATION (“CME”) REQUIREMENTS, WHICH TOOK EFFECT ON JANUARY 4, 2019.
ANY MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN SEEKING TO RENEW HIS OR HER LICENSE BEGINNING
WITH THE JANUARY 1, 2020 RENEWING CYCLE MUST COMPLETE THE NEW CME
REQUIREMENTS.1 THE CME REQUIREMENTS NOW REQUIRE ONE HOUR OF CME ABOUT
VETERINARY MEDICAL RECORDS.
8 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
The Legal Requirements of Veterinary Medical RecordsBy Andrew J. Gordon, Esq.
n Identification including, but not limited to, a tattoo, tag number, lot number, pen number, age, name, markings, sex, and species of the patient, as available.
n Date of the last veterinary service. n Name, address, and telephone number
of the client. n Location of patients, if not at the location
of the veterinary practice. n Reason for the contact including, but not
limited to, the case history, problem and/or signs of a problem, and whether the contact was a routine health visit or an emergency call.
n Vaccination history, when appropriate and if known.
n Results of the physical examination and a list of abnormal findings.
n Laboratory reports and other reports, when appropriate.
n Diagnostic procedures utilized and the reports that pertain to these procedures.
n Procedures performed including, but not limited to, surgery and rectal palpations.
n Daily progress notes, if hospitalized. n Documentation of informed consent,
if appropriate. n Documentation of diagnostic options
and treatment plans. n Records of any client communication
deemed relevant. n Documentation of prescribed
medication.A medical record must, at a minimum, con-tain all the above items. If any of the above information exists, it must be included in the medical record—otherwise the record is considered deficient.
Lastly, Subsection 4 of Rule 21 describes the minimum time that a veterinarian must maintain medical records. Subsection 4 states that records created before the effec-tive date of the Rule must be kept for three
years from “the date of the last veterinary service.”8 Whereas, records created on or after the effective date of the Rule must be maintained for seven years “from the date of the last veterinary service.”9 The Rule was originally established in 2011, so any records created after that date must be maintained for at least seven years. When the Rule states “from the date of the last veterinary service,” the veterinarian should maintain all records for at least seven years after he or she last saw that patient.
BEYOND THE PRESCRIBED MEDICAL
RECORDS REQUIREMENTS, THERE ARE
ADDITIONAL ETHICAL AND PRACTICAL
CONSIDERATIONS THAT OFTEN ARISE WHEN
HANDLING VETERINARY MEDICAL RECORDS
While Rule 21 establishes certain minimum thresholds for the content and handling requirements of medical records, a number of issues remain for medical records which Rule 21 does not address. When such an issue arises, veterinarians should look to the ethical rules and guid-ance of the American Veterinary Medical Association or the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association.
One such concern is who owns a veteri-narian’s medical records. According to the AVMA’s Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics, medical records are considered the property of the practice and the practice owner. Furthermore, the AVMA’s guidance provides that veterinarians must treat the information in their medical records confidential and only release such infor-mation by consent of the patient’s owner or by court order.
Under the AVMA's guidance, veterinar-ians are ethically required to provide cop-ies or a summary of a patient’s medical
records to the client, upon request. If a veterinarian receives a request to transfer medical records to a third party, such as another veterinary clinic, the veterinarian should confirm the client consents to the transfer. While there is no legal require-ment that a veterinarian receive written consent from the client before transferring copies of patient records, you should check for a written consent requirement in your professional liability insurance policy. Ver-bal consent is usually sufficient, but written consent is always preferable.
SUMMARY
In short, the law on veterinary medical records is not complicated. However, failing to abide by these legal requirements can result in licensing problems for the treating veterinarian or the practice owner. New regulations require veterinarians to attend continuing medical education specifically addressing the requirements for veterinary medical records in order to renew their licenses. The MVMA or your local veterinary association should be able to provide you with options on when and how you can complete this new CME requirement.
REFERENCES
1 MCL 333.18813(1); Mich Admin Code, R 338.4933(1)(d).
2 See MCL 333.16221(h). 3 MCL 333.16213; Mich Admin Code, R 338.4921. 4 R 338.4921(1). 5 R 338.4921(1). 6 R 338.4921(2). 7 R 338.4921(3). 8 R 338.4921(4). 9 R 338.4921(4).
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 9
The Legal Requirements of Veterinary Medical RecordsBy Andrew J. Gordon, Esq.
Andrew J. Gordon is an attorney at White Schneider PC in Lansing. He represents veterinarians in licensing cases, general business matters, and employment
law. MVMA partners with White Schneider PC to assist our members. If a member has a legal question, they first contact MVMA at [email protected] or 517.347.4710. If MVMA is unable to assist with the question, the member is referred to the law firm. Members receive free 15-minute telephone consultations as often as necessary. In addition, if a member decides to pursue legal action using the firm, they receive a 10% reduction on the attorneys’ customary billing rates.
10 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
Michigan law now requires veterinarians to complete 45 CME hours and 15 CME hours for veterinary technicians every three years. Of the 45 hours, veterinarians will be required to complete one hour of education on medical records and one hour on state veterinary law and/or
federal or state controlled substance law.
We can help.
Sarah Babcock, DVM, JD (MSU CVM, 2004) has created online trainings, approved by the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, to satisfy these new requirements. They can be taken when it works for you, without the
cost of travel or time away from work.
MANDATORY
ENROLL TODAYAnimalAndVeterinaryLaw.com/courses/
This is an exceptional online course on a poignant topic. This course would benefit all veterinary professionals; from student to experienced practitioner. This course will illuminate your medical record deficiencies and reinforce your good habits.
Stephen C. Steep, DVM
When I began the course, I thought it would likely be another waste of time. I was quickly, and pleasantly surprised to discover that was not the case. If one has any aspiration of practicing quality medicine, this course is not optional it is indispensable.
John B. Smith, DVM
CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION (CME)
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 11
Why I want to be more like my dogs!this morning as I struggled to get out of bed and get my day started, it occurred to me that
my dogs, Trent and Parker, are so much better at life than I am. They pop out of bed and bound around me with joy as I shuffle to the coffee maker to get my morning dose of
caffeine. They wake up without an alarm clock to start their day. They are always happy with the meals that I serve them, even though it is always the same dry kibble with a little canned Hill’s I/D. No complaints or whining—they snarf it down as fast as they can as if I were Gordon Ramsey serving them Beef Wellington. After breakfast, Parker, my 11-month-old puppy, happily runs out into the yard and barks at the same tree where he sometimes gets the reward of seeing an early morning squirrel. They are pure joy.
I aspire to be more like my dogs—here is why.Trent and Parker have the ability to always live in the moment. They do not cause them-
selves anxiety by focusing on the past or their future. Our anxiety comes from agonizing over something that happened yesterday or worrying about something that may happen tomorrow. Dogs don’t do that. Parker is a bit skittish when it comes to loud noises, but once the noise
By Dr. Julie Cappel
continued on next page .
PARKER
TRENT
We know how busy you are and that every second of your day counts. You need practical information from real experts, and the MVMA is here to help!
The Young Professional Task Force and Membership Committee have created 2 discussion boards to help address your questions in both Practice Management and Personal & Professional Finance.
You can access the forums by visiting MVMA’s website at MichVMA.org and scrolling down to the bottom, or by typing https://michvma.org/forums into your browser.
You may view forum topics and discussions without subscribing to the forum. However, to participate you must click on the “Subscribe to Forum” link on the right side of the page. You will be directed to login using your MVMA login information. Please feel free to post questions or content related to the topic of the forum only. You can reply to a topic that has been posted by using the green reply button.
If you need your login information, please contact the MVMA office at 517/347-4710 or [email protected].
Participate in MVMA’s Member Discussion Forums!
12 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
Dr. Cappel works as a small animal and exotic pet veterinarian, leadership and life coach. She has been a practice owner for over 20 years running a four-doctor
veterinary practice in Warren. She currently authors a weekly blog for veterinary teams, which deals with
issues that we face in the veterinary profession: Veterinary Life – Dr. Julie Cappel. Her website is at
www.juliecappel.com.
danger has passed, he recovers quickly. The calmer I remain with the sound, the calmer he becomes. If I could imitate living in the present like Parker, I could react quickly to a situation, let it go, then really enjoy the rest of my day. I want to live in the moment like Parker.
Trent and Parker remain present in sim-plicity and nature. They are acutely aware of their surroundings. They are most happy when they are out on a walk or running free. They are not concerned with global warm-ing or whether or not it will rain tomorrow; they just enjoy what is. When I walk with my dogs and observe the way they appreciate simple things like green grass, pleasant smells, warm sunshine and eagerly greeting a neighbor, I am reminded of the beauty of simplicity. I can let go of my concerns and
see the world through their eyes. It is almost like a focused meditation in the way they experience life and nature. I want to enjoy nature and simplicity like my dogs.
Trent and Parker do not hang on to resentment or anger. They always forgive. Just think how much better your life would be if you could forgive every transgression like your dog. Last night we left the house at around 4:00 pm for a recital that we were attending about an hour from our home. Because it was earlier than they usually eat, I decided to have them wait for their dinner until we returned—which I thought would be around 9:00 pm. We left the boys home while we were away. After the recital, we were invited to dinner with some friends and did not arrive back home until after midnight. The dogs did not hold a grudge or become angry that we were home late. Had it been me that was waiting for my meal for 6 hours without explanation, I would be furious. They just happily greeted us and snarfed down their meal. I felt terrible about the food delay, but they were just happy to get a snack any time that I offered it. No grudges, no anger. They are simply incapable of feeling blame. I want to be more forgiving like my dogs.
My dogs have no interest in things or money. They live free from the trappings of accumulation and greed. Trent has a toy bas-ket, and he does not care if there are 3 toys
in it or 10. He happily grabs whatever toy is available at the time and plays his favorite “keep away” game with me. Trent is never concerned when I take away a toy that is tattered and worn, and then I throw it in the trash. He does not beg for something new. He does not need the latest iPhone or tablet. He is just content with what he has. I want to feel content with my belongings like Trent.
I have come to the conclusion that my dogs are beautiful teachers. They don’t live in the past or worry about the future. If I observe them and listen to what they are teaching me, I will become more consciously aware, and my life will become more vibrant.
I want to be more like my dogs.
“ Dogs, for a reason that can only be described as divine, have the ability to forgive, let go of the past, and live each day joyously. It’s something the rest of us strive for.”
~jennifer skiff
. “Why I want to be more like my dogs,” continued from previous page
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 13
What do I need to know to start my own practice?How do I negotiate a raise? What do I do when someone threatens to sue me?
contact the “A” Team! MVMA has expanded the traditional mentoring concept to include mentoring at all stages of your career. Our free and confidential Answer Team can help you
with a variety of common (and not-so-common) questions and con-cerns. Just email the MVMA at [email protected] with your ques-tion and you will be matched with an “A” Team expert who can assist you. There are multiple experts in all areas so we will make sure you are matched with someone appropriate for you! Topics include:
NEED HELP?LET MVMA “MENTOR” YOU THROUGH LIFE STAGES USING THE “A” (ANSWER) TEAM!
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT: n Buying a Practice n Starting a Practice n Selling a Practice n Partnering n Consolidation n Starting a Mobile Clinic
CAREER ASSISTANCE: n Employment Agreements/
Non-Compete Clauses n Career Transition/Job
Change n Career Counseling/Career
Options n How to Negotiate a Raise n How to Negotiate Time Off n Retirement—When and How
LITIGATION: n Dealing With Upset Clients
Before Things Get to Litigation
n What to do When Someone Threatens to Sue You
n Sexual Harassment
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT: n Burnout/Depression/
Compassion Fatigue n Euthanasia n Doctor/Client
Communications n Professional Image n Finding and Maintaining
Work-Life Balance n Mental Health and Physical
Wellness
HUMAN RESOURCES: n Employee/Staff Management
Issues n Hiring a LVT verses an
“assistant” n Hiring and Firing (Legal
Issues to Consider) n Staff Meetings n Motivating Staff n Reviews and Performance
Evaluations
VETERINARY ETHICS
FINANCIAL & DEBT ASSISTANCE
“ I had a complaint filed against me with the Board of Veterinary Medicine and didn’t know what to do. I was devastated! My A Team mentor helped me understand the process and what I needed to do.” dr. s
14 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
1. HOSPITAL CULTURE Culture is the most often overlooked aspect of veterinary hospital operations in many hospitals. This has not been a priority for management for reasons ranging from non-recognition of the impact of culture on all hospital functions to not understanding how to implement a healthy organizational culture. Recent research4 has uncovered high levels of professional burnout in veterinary teams, with 91% of respondents reporting the perception of burnout among their peers as moderate to substantial. 49% disclosed that they were moderately to substantially affected. The primary driver of professional burnout was identified as client economic limitations.
In another study,5 client issues were identified as a major source of animal health care team stress within veterinary hospitals, with the primary contributor within this category classified as “clients unwilling or unable to pay.”
A recent publication6 explored the role of “moral distress,” defined as an emotional conflict between what is being requested of the individual and that person’s deeply held
the topic of pet health insurance has been front and center in 2018, with no less than 17 articles printed in main-
stream veterinary publications in addition to articles in the New York Times, Washing-ton Post and US News, among others. Why has there been so much focus on pet health insurance?
Pet health insurance is not a new offer-ing, having been available worldwide since the early 1900’s. In 1982 Lassie, of TV fame, received the first US pet health insurance policy.1 Since that time, the U.S. pet health insurance industry has evolved and today offers a variety of plans that truly meet the needs of the pet owner. Concurrently, veterinary medicine continues to transform. In 2017, pet owners spent $17.07 billion dollars on veterinary care for pets.2 As our ability to offer more progressive treatments to our patients has advanced, so has the need to provide a mechanism for clients to afford these life altering therapies.
This has created a disconnect for our animal health care teams. They have the tools and knowledge to help patients to realize longer, better qualities lives. Due to
By Wendy Hauser, DVM
AVP, Veterinary Relations, Crum & Forster Pet Insurance Group
3 reasons why pet insurance should matter to you!
economic limitations, clients often have to choose less than optimal recommendations, leading to feelings of stress and distress in veterinary team members. Morale suffers, and the hospital culture deteriorates. This leads to lower team member engage-ment and higher rates of absenteeism and turnover.
From the perspective of the pet owner, the financial inability to provide the recom-mended care for their beloved companions leads to anxiety and feelings that they have failed their pet. Some clients become angry, directing their frustrations at the animal health care team. This leads to a fracturing of bonds between the client and the hospi-tal. Given that new patient numbers have declined almost monthly in the last 3 years,3 it is important that we maintain relation-ships with our current clients.
Pet health insurance is a tool that will allow hospitals to enhance workplace cul-ture, strengthen client bonds and increase hospital financial performance. Learn why it is worth the time and focus of hospital lead-ership to incorporate this valuable service as part of your hospital offerings.
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 15
personal standards, or morals, in veterinary professional burnout. This internal struggle often produces “painful feelings, psychologi-cal disequilibrium, or both resulting from barriers to performing actions consistent with one’s own moral compass.” In this study, “73% of respondents stated that not being able to do the right thing for a patient caused their staff moderate to severe stress and 78% replied that it caused them moder-ate to severe distress.”
Educating clients about the benefits of pet health insurance is a positive step that hospital leadership can take in minimizing the significant and negative impact of client economic limitations.
2. CLIENT BONDS In 2008, a foundational study7 evaluated the relationship between the owner-pet bond and the veterinarian-pet owner bond. They found owners that had stronger bonds with their pets “were more likely to seek higher levels of veterinary care for their pets, were less sensitive to the price of veterinary care, and were more willing to follow the recom-mendations of veterinarians, compared with other owners.”
“Owners with strong owner-pet bonds took their pets to veterinarians 40% more often than owners with weak owner-pet bonds.”7 The bond between a veterinarian and the pet owner is built upon “the veteri-narian’s communication skills, interaction with pets, and ability to educate the owner about his or her pets’ needs.”7 When veteri-narians and their teams communicate with their clients about how to take care of their pets and explain recommendations and treatments in terms of how those choices can impact their pet’s health, the outcome is higher adherence.7,8
Pet owners have indicated in surveys9 that they purchased pet health insurance for emo-tional, not financial reasons. Their decision to buy insurance directly relates to the bond they feel with their pets. Pet owner rationale for obtaining pet health insurance include it “is helpful to pet owners, shows you love your pet and shows you are a responsible pet owner.” Furthermore, owners of insured pets state that the three most important factors in obtaining coverage included
“a sense of security, it is recommended by my veterinarian and recommended by veterinary staff.” This survey demonstrates that clients value a clinical endorsement that pet health insurance is helpful to both the pet and pet owner. How does your animal health care team communicate the value of pet health insurance to clients?
By examining and implementing ways to reinforce client bonds in our practice, such as making pet health insurance a clinical recommendation, we have the opportunity to create a practice culture that meets the needs of our clients, patients and animal health care teams.
3. HOSPITAL REVENUEThe 2016 NAPHIA study9 examined how pet health insurance impacts hospital revenues by comparing the amount clients spend on insured patients versus non-insured patients. It was found that owners of insured dogs spent 29% more annually than owners of non-insured dogs. The increase in outlay for insured cats was even more dramatic, with an 81% increase in annual spending noted. The increase in services received by insured pets was not limited to only those covered by insurance, but also included increased preventive care services and products.
A recent study reported in the 2018 AVMA Report on the Market for Veterinary Services10 examined if “having pet care in-surance lowers pet owners burden of health care bills.” Key areas investigated included the impact of having pet health insurance on the number of patient visits and amount of client spend, owner behavior in seeking veterinary care more quickly for ill or injured pets and if insurance empowered owners to approve/accept more expensive care recommendations. Outcomes of the study support the finding that “people with pet health care insurance spend a signifi-cantly higher amount on their pet care than owners without pet health insurance.”
CONCLUSIONI know of no other service that has more potential to positively impact culture, client bonding, patient health and hospital revenue than pet health insurance. The cost to the veterinary hospital to introduce pet health insurance is measured not in dollars, but in training and focus. It seems a small investment to make to experience such long term gains. What are you waiting for?
REFERENCES 1 NAPHIA Website: https://naphia.org/industry/ 2 https://www.americanpetproducts.org/
press_industrytrends.asp.3 VHMA Insiders insights, November 2018.
https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.vhma.org/resource/resmgr/VHMA_Insiders_Insights_Novem.pdf
4 Kipperman B, Kass P, Rishniw M. Factors that influence small animal veterinarians’ opinions and actions regarding cost of care and effects of economic limitations on patient care and outcome and professional career satisfaction and burnout. JAVMA, Vol. 250, No. 7, April 1, 2017 pp. 785-794.
5 Vande Griek O, Clark M, Witte T, Nett R, Moeller A, Stabler M. Development of a taxon-omy of practice-related stressors experienced by veterinarians in the United States. JAVMA, Vol. 252, No. 2, January 15, 2018 pp. 227-233.
6 Moses L, Malowney MJ, Wesley Boyd J. Ethical conflict and moral distress in veterinary prac-tice: A survey of North American veterinarians. J Vet Intern Med. 2018, 32(6):2115-2122.
7 Lue TW, Pantenburg DP, Crawford PM. Impact of the owner-pet and client-veterinarian bond on the care that pets receive. JAVMA, Vol. 232, No. 4, February 15, 2008. Pgs 531-540.
8 Coe JB, Adams CL, Bonnett BN. Prevalence and nature of cost discussions during clinical appoint- ments in companion animal practice. JAVMA, Vol. 234, No. 11, June 1, 2009. Pgs. 1418-1424.
9 NAPHIA, Research Report 2016, “Driving Growth of Pet Health Insurance”
10 2018 AVMA Report on the Market for Veterinary Services, https://www.avma.org/PracticeManagement/BusinessIssues/Documents/2018-econ-rpt3-veterinary-services.pdf p.57
Wendy Hauser, DVM is AVP, Veterinary Relations, Crum & Forster Pet Insurance Group. In 2015, she established Peak Veterinary Consulting, after working as an industry Technical Services Veterinarian. With a DVM from OK State
in 1988, she has practiced for 30 years as an associate, owner and relief veterinarian. She is highly engaged in AAHA leadership and currently serves as the AAHA Delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates. She is the co-author of
“The Veterinarian’s Guide to Healthy Pet Plans.”
GREAT LAKESVETERINARY CONFERENCE
park place hotel & conference center | traverse city
july 21–23
16 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
. . . don’t miss it!
Would you like to attend a fun CE event with great speakers that will inspire you and change the way you practice? Do you need the required medical records and veterinary law credits now required in Michigan but are tough
to get? Then join us at the Great Lakes Veterinary Conference for amazing speakers and great networking events!
Located in the heart of downtown Traverse City, the Park Place Hotel & Conference Center offers more than just first-class accommodations. Its views of Traverse City and Grand Traverse Bay cannot be beaten. And you don’t have to travel far to experience nationally-renowned restaurants and entertainment!
14 hours of c.e. credit available!
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 17
CARDIOLOGY
Christian D. Weder, DVM, MS, DACVIMVeterinary Cardiologists Consultants
Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim
n Canine Valvular Diseasen Canine Cardiomyopathyn Feline Cardiomyopathyn Congenital Heart Disease
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT
Wendy S. Myers, CVJPresident, Communication Solutions for Veterinarians
Sponsored by IDEXX
n How to Master Forward Bookingn Be Efficient in the Exam Room n Get Clients to Accept Dental Treatments n Get Clients to Accept Diagnostic Testsn How to Tame Rude Clients
MEDICAL RECORDS & VETERINARY LAW
Sarah Babcock, DVM, JDAnimal & Veterinary Legal Services, PLLC
Sponsored by Animal & Veterinary Legal Services, PLLC
n Did you document it? How to create a legally defensible medical record
n Stay Above the Bar: Keep the clients in and litigation out
n Chevy vs. Cadillac: What meets or exceeds the standard of care
n Know the Principles: Improve ethical literacy and decrease moral stress
n The Opioid Epidemic: A One Health approach to alleviate this crisis
EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Matt Beal, DVM, DACVECCMichigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Sponsored by MSU Veterinary Medical Center
n Management of Thoracic Injuries After Blunt Trauma I & II
n Lower Urinary Tract Emergencies After Trauman Is it Obstructed? One of the Most Common
Questions in the ERn Tracheal Collapse: Emergency Management to
Definitive Treatmentn Interventional Radiology: Cases from the IR Service
18 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
NEUROLOGY, REHABILITATION, AND EMERGENCY PET CAREWHEN YOUR PET IS IN NEED, WE’RE HERE TO HELP.
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the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 19
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine honors
dr. john bakerJOHN BAKER, BS ’73, MS ’75, DVM ’80, PhD, was recently honored by The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine with the Distinguished Alumni Award. Dr. Baker was recognized for his impact in the field of bovine respiratory disease, his mentorship as a clinician and educator, and his outstanding record of leadership in academia. As a clinician-researcher, Baker gained the reputa-tion of a scholar and thought leader through his groundbreaking research focused on viral agents of bovine respiratory disease that led to improvements in animal health and producer profitability. He has served as a trusted and valued advisor to policy makers, practitioners, producers and agriculturalists.
Baker has also served in several key administrative roles. During his service as Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies at Michigan State’s College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU CVM), the amount of research funding nearly doubled and he authored the first successfully funded Merck-Merial, NIH T-35 and NIH T-32 training grants supporting summer research experiences and DVM/PhD students, igniting many careers in animal health and biomedi-cal research. Baker was then appointed as Acting Director and then Associate Director of MSU AgBioResearch (previously Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station) where he supported innovative re-search across MSU and the state of Michigan impacting food, energy and the environment. In 2014, Baker was named Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine bringing special attention to curricular re-design, strategic guidance, and rebuilding key collaborations across the campus and statewide. Congratulations, Dr. Baker!
membersin the news
What’s new under the sun? Our Auburn Hills and Grand Rapids hospitals have added 64-slice CT scanners allowing us to provide a more rapid diagnosis.
Grand Rapids has added an MRI to our advanced diagnostics, making us the only hospital in western Michigan with a veterinary approved MRI.
The Auburn Hills hospital now offers continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). This therapy provides 24-hour treatment to critically ill pets with acute kidney injury, certain drug/toxin ingestions and fluid overload from refractory heart failure.
24-7 PET EMERGENCY
MI MVMA AD 2019 04 22.indd 1 4/23/19 10:11 AM
20 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 21
WHY TEST? SEROLOGICAL SCREENING TO VERIFY SUCCESS OF INITIAL IMMUNIZATION
SERIES
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommend that puppies receive core vaccines, first at six to eight weeks of age, then every two to four weeks until 16 weeks of age or older. This is traditionally followed by a booster, either at 12 months of age or 12 months after completion of the puppy series.
The rationale for the booster is that it will result in a proper adaptive immune response in puppies whose humoral adaptive immune response is still absent or incomplete. Potential reasons listed in the current WSAVA guidelines are residual maternal antibody, inadequate antigenicity of vaccine components or the failure of the animal’s immune system to respond to one or more core vaccines.
A vulnerability of this approach is that it can leave a puppy inadequately protected for an extended period of time if there were an inadequate response to one or more of the compo-nents of the puppy shots. The Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MSU VDL) recently tested antibody responses to canine parvovirus-2 (CPV-2), canine adeno-virus-2 (CAV-2), and canine distemper virus (CDV) in sera from 50 immunized dogs that were up to 12 months of age. The virus neutralization (VN) test was used to quantitate serum antibody levels to CAV-2 and CDV. The hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test was used for quantitative determination of serum antibody titers to CPV-2. The cut off levels indicative of clinical protection are 32 or higher for CDV, 80 or higher for CPV-2 and 16 or higher for CAV-2.
Serological Responses to Canine VaccinationBy Roger Maes, DVM, PhDMSU VDL Virology Laboratory Section Chief
Suzanne Mason, MT (ASCP)Virology Laboratory Supervisor Keenan Mullaney, BSVirology Laboratory Technologist
continued on next page .
22 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 22the michigan veterinarian · spring 2019
CAV-2 CPV-2 CDVAGE IN
MONTHS
128 <10 16 4
64 <10 <8 4
<8 ≥640 ≥512 7
<8 <10 <8 7
≥512 <10 8 8
≥512 40 <8 9
256 10 128 11
≥512 ≥640 16 11
256 ≥640 16 11
≥512 <10 ≥512 11
≥512 20 128 11
≥512 ≥640 <8 11
CAV-2 CPV-2 CDVAGE IN
MONTHS
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 2
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 3
64 320 ≥512 3
256 160 64 4
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 4
128 ≥640 ≥512 4
≥512 160 ≥512 5
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 5
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 5
≥512 ≥640 128 5
128 160 32 5
256 ≥640 ≥512 6
128 320 ≥512 7
≥512 320 256 8
256 ≥640 ≥512 9
≥512 ≥640 128 11
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 11
128 80 32 11
≥512 ≥640 ≥512 11
256 ≥640 ≥512 11
≥512 ≥640 64 11
≥512 ≥640 128 11
≥512 ≥540 ≥512 11
≥512 320 ≥512 11
32 160 256 11
256 ≥640 ≥512 11
≥512 320 256 11
256 ≥640 ≥512 11
≥512 ≥640 256 11
≥512 320 ≥512 11
256 ≥640 64 11
256 ≥640 128 11
≥512 320 256 11
128 ≥640 ≥512 11
128 320 ≥512 11
≥512 ≥640 256 11
256 ≥640 ≥512 11
64 320 ≥512 12
The data presented in Table 1 indicate that 24% of dogs (12 of 50) had one or more titer(s) below the cut off. The percentages of inadequate titers in these dogs were 4% for CAV-2 and 16% for both CPV-2 and CDV. See Table 1 for specific titers and ages of dogs with inadequate titers and Table 2 for those dogs with adequate post-vaccination titers as comparison.
In Denmark, seroconversion was determined in a population of 135 pups aged between 8 weeks and 12 months. Most of these dogs had finished the early life pro-tocol, were unlikely to have received a dose at 14–16 weeks, and had not yet received a 12 month booster. The percentages of non-responders in this population were 25.3% for CPV-2, 20.7% for CAV-2, and 12.6% for CDV.
Based upon this, it would be reassuring to both owners and veterinarians to verify that a puppy properly responded to the series of three to four core vaccine shots by testing the serum antibody levels four weeks after completion of the “puppy shot” series. This would typically be around 20 weeks of age.
An overview of this approach and the de-cision making associated with it is presented
. “Serological Responses to Canine Vaccination,” continued from previous page
TABLE 1
12 OF 50 DOGS WITH ONE OR MORE
TITERS CONSIDERED INADEQUATE
.
TABLE 2
38 OF 50 DOGS WITH ADEQUATE
TITERS
. in the WSAVA’s “Guidelines for the Vaccina-
tion of Dogs and Cats.”
DETERMINATION OF MAINTENANCE
OF POST-VACCINAL SERUM ANTIBODY
LEVELS
Current practice often combines clinical judgment and client wishes to determine the need for additional serological viral screening between vaccinations. The MSU VDL offers screening of titers against viral vaccine components to assist with these re-vaccination decisions.
MINIMIZING THE RISK OF ADVERSE
VACCINATION REACTIONS IN DOGS
PREVIOUSLY SHOWING THEM
Although the incidence of adverse vaccina-tion reactions is low, some are life-threaten-ing. Serological testing for antibodies to the components of the core vaccines are a logi-cal alternative to standard re-vaccination of these dogs.
MANAGING OUTBREAKS IN SHELTERS
Timely differentiation between seropositive and seronegative animals is an important tool in decision making at shelters experi-encing acute infectious disease outbreaks. Animals residing in the shelter that are seronegative or have very low antibody levels can then be separated from those that are seropositive. The seronegative animals cannot be adopted out until they are shown to be seropositive upon retest. Animals coming into a shelter can be admitted if they are seropositive, whereas those testing negative should be vaccinated and admit-ted only once there is evidence that they seroconverted.
SCREENING OPTIONS
The MSU VDL offers vaccine serology screens for both dogs and cats and also of-fers unique services in the interpretation of leptospirosis vaccine titers. Serum (2 mL) is requested for these tests and this testing can be done in combination with other tests sent to the laboratory, e.g. thyroid function tests.
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 23
Immunohistochemical labeling (red) for CDV in the brain of a dog
Segmental necrohemorrhagic enteritis in a dog with CPV-2
CANINE VACCINE ANTIBODY PANEL (80101)
INCLUDES:
n Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) VN (80050)
n Canine Adenovirus-2 (CAV-2) VN (80047) n Canine Parvovirus-2 (CPV-2) HI (80054)
Canine Vaccine Panel + Lepto (95996) includes the above plus Leptospirosis (95055).
Revaccination is recommended for dogs with a CDV titer below 32, a CPV-2 titer below 80, and a CAV-2 titer below 16. An interpretation of the leptospirosis titers is provided based on challenge data in vaccinated dogs.
FELINE VACCINE SCREEN (80102) INCLUDES:
n Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) VN (80031) n Feline Calicivirus (FCV) VN (80066) n Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) HI
(80035)
We recommend revaccination for cats with an FHV-1 titer below 16, an FCV titer below 32, and an FPV titer below 40.
COLLECTING AND SUBMITTING SAMPLES
Details regarding turnaround time, collec-tion protocol, and requirements for speci-mens and shipping are available for each test in the MSU VDL catalog. For samples that need to be kept cold during shipment, we recommend using an MSU VDL insulated mailer with pre-paid overnight UPS delivery.
Please contact the MSU VDL Virology Laboratory at 517.353.1683 with questions about test formats, sample handling, etc.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
n American Animal Hospital Association, Vaccination Recommendations for General Practice, https://www.aaha.org/guidelines/canine_vaccination_ guidelines/practice_vaccination.aspx
n World Small Animal Veterinary Associa-tion, Vaccination Guidelines, Vaccination Guidelines for Cats and Dogs 2015, https://www.wsava.org/guidelines/vaccination-guidelines
. editor’s note: A version of this article appeared in the Spring 2019 issue of the MSU VDL newsletter, Diagnostic News.
| 22
Dear MVMA Member,
Don’t forget to renew your MVMA membership! If you pay by July 1, you will be entered into a drawing to receive a free year of dues.
MVMA is one of the most progressive, passionate and dedicated veterinary organizations with more than 2,350 members. By continu-ing as a member of MVMA, you are connected with great ideas and great people. There are many reasons to be a member, but we thought we’d list the top benefits for you. Check out the Member Benefits guide on our website at www.michvma.org.
11MVMA’s CE Portal. Now that continuing education has become mandatory in Michigan, you’ll want to be on our CE portal. There are over 1,100 courses you can
choose from, approximately 440 of which are completely free. Our CE portal can be an easy and inexpensive way to obtain CE credits. It will also track your CE, even from external sources.
10 Savings on things you need. In these challenging times, you MUST check out our negotiated discounts for members. MVMA saves members money on
insurance, office supplies & equipment, x-ray badges, credit card processing, account collection services, web services, and more.
9 Free legal and loan advice. Members can access profes-sional and personal legal advice and student loan advice over the telephone, absolutely free.
8 Local access to first-rate continuing education. The Michigan Veterinary Conference, MVMA’s Small Animal Seminar Series, Great Lakes Veterinary Conference, Pro-
fessional Competencies Certification, MVMA/MSU CVM’s Joint Wet Labs and more offer you outstanding CE at discounted rates for members.
7 Veterinary Career Network and employment assistance. Members looking for employment can conduct a free nation-wide job search by position, species, or location and receive
valuable advice. Employers can post ads and search for veterinary professionals.
6 Complaint Resolution. All veterinarians occasionally have unhappy clients and these clients often call MVMA before contacting the Board of Veterinary Medicine. MVMA’s
Ethics and Grievance Committee oversees client complaints, usually resolving them before legal or licensure action is initiated.
5 MVMA’s Answer Team. MVMA’s “A” Team expands the traditional mentoring concept to include mentoring at all stages of a career. Talk to expert team members about issues
dealing with practice management, career assistance, litigation, personal development, human resources or veterinary ethics.
4 Model Animal Hospital Personnel Policies Manual. MVMA created a personnel policies manual for members that can be customized to fit your practice. It reflects cur-
rent Michigan laws and is free to members.
3 Michigan Law for Veterinary Professionals. This pub-lication includes information on the Board of Veterinary Medicine, Public Health Code, discipline, civil liability,
licensing questions, controlled substances questions and the Michigan Penal Code and it’s all in one place!
2 We look out for you. MVMA constantly monitors the activi-ties of the Board of Veterinary Medicine, legislative bodies and trends in the veterinary profession. We have a Legisla-
tive Network and the tools needed to protect you against legislative initiatives or policy changes negatively affecting your profession.
And the number one benefit of MVMA membership:
1 Access to information. Whether through The Michigan Veterinarian, E-newsletter, Urgent Issue Broadcasts, website, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube or by
responding to member telephone and email inquiries, MVMA keeps members informed about what they need to know to manage vet-erinary practices, keep clients happy and minimize stress levels. We also have web resources specifically targeted to your needs whether you are a practice owner, recent graduate, associate veterinarian or practice staff.
Not bad for a top eleven list. And we’ll keep working to make sure that we can top this list a year from now. MVMA is one of the best investments you’ll ever make. Our members are defining veterinary practice in Michigan. If you have any questions contact us at (517) 347-4710 or [email protected]. Thank you for your support!
THE TOP ELEVEN REASONS
11TO BE AN MVMA MEMBER
24 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 25
classifieds &relief vets
classified adsveterinarians wanted
F/T or P/T experienced veterinarian preferred for a well-established small animal hospital located in Livingston County. Independently owned. New graduates will be considered. Please call 248/821-1773 or email resume to [email protected].
Privately owned and well-established companion animal clinic in Monroe, MI seeks to add a veterinarian to our staff. River Raisin Veterinary Clinic is a 3-doctor team focused on compassionate care for our patients and empathy for our clients. We are offering a 4-day work week with no weekends or evenings. Salary based on experience. Mentoring, CE, IRA plan, production bonus, membership dues and licensing fees are also available. Please send inquiries and resume to [email protected].
Associate veterinarian needed for a growing small animal practice in Mason, Michigan. F/T or P/T position available, with no after hour emergency work. We have great clients, wonderful support staff, IDEXX blood machines, IDEXX digital x-ray, Avimark software, and a comfortable, casual, country environment to work in. Contact Cheryl DeSilva, DVM at 517/694-7599, or send resume to [email protected].
Great Lakes Pet Emergencies of Saginaw, Michigan is seeking a part or full-time veterinarian to join our VECCS certified after-hours emergency hospital. Our recently renovated facility is equipped with a wide range of diagnostic and monitoring equipment, including a complete in-house laboratory with blood gas and lactate analysis, digital radiography, 24/7 radiology and EKG specialist consults, ultrasound, endoscopy, and in-stock blood products. Our doctors are supported by a group of friendly highly skilled licensed veterinary technicians who are committed to a team approach in patient and client care. An ideal candidate is a motivated, compassionate clinician with excellent communications skills, and the desire to practice advanced medicine and perform surgery. Our supportive, highly experienced emergency doctors are available for mentoring and training. This is a great position for anyone looking to gain emergency experience! Flexible schedule available allowing for
focused on quality medicine. Close proximity to an emergency clinic and a respected referral hospital. No emergency on-call or after-hours expected. The clinic is nicely equipped with in-house lab equipment, digital radiography including dental, and ultrasound. Enjoy practicing medicine in an environment that supports your well-being, personally and professionally. Email [email protected] with questions.
Do you have a passion for Low Stress Veterinary Visits, and want to become an integral part of our forward-thinking team? Thorpe Animal Hospital is looking to find a strong associate to fill a part time or full-time role. We recently finished a full clinic remodel to utilize our space efficiently and enable us to become fear free certified and feline friendly. Candidates must have a passion for growth and team spirit, be able to offer excellence in surgical skill, patient care and education. Acupuncture, U/S or orthopedic experience would be a bonus! Help us elevate our team to the next level. Benefits include a competitive salary and benefits
full-time employment or even just a few shifts a month. We offer a very competitive compensation package and benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401K with a profit-sharing plan. We also provide a generous allowance for continued education, uniforms, and dues. For more information or to submit a resume and cover letter please contact: Dr. JoLynne Grant by email [email protected]; GreatLakesPet.com.
Animal Medical Center of Wyoming is a 7-doctor, 12-LVT, and 25-support staff AAHA hospital serving Grand Rapids. We are looking for a full-time, client-oriented individual with a commitment to high-quality medicine, excellent patient care, and surgical interest. Our expanded facility includes EMR, on site lab, full digital imaging, laser, and ultrasound. We offer a competitive salary with production bonuses, medical/dental insurance, IRA, paid CE, and four-day work week. Located 40 minutes from Lake Michigan and minutes from downtown that offers lots of cultural activity and entertainment opportunities. If you want to enjoy practicing medicine in Grand Rapids, send resume to Animal Medical Center, 2330 44th St SW, Wyoming, MI 49519, or submit via email [email protected]; visit AMCWyoming.com.
Countryside Animal Hospital in Sylvania is looking for an associate veterinarian either PT or FT. Very well-established practice and doctor (Dr. Paul Pifer) in Northwest Ohio with a great reputation and fantastic support staff. Great Salary and benefits package. Currently a 1-doctor practice in definite need of an additional vet. Experience preferred but not necessary. Please send resumes and/or questions to [email protected].
Accepting resumes for a part-time to full-time associ-ate at our progressive small animal clinic located in mid-Michigan. Although we are a busy and sometimes fast-paced clinic, we work on an appointment-only basis allowing us to devote time to each patient, giving our clients the thorough and quality care they deserve. We have built a devoted clientele and pride ourselves on customer service and patient care. We utilize support staff, including LVT’s, to their full potential so doctors can focus on medicine. Work/life balance is a must! Scheduling is flexible and onsite daycare is an option if the need arises. We have a fun and friendly work environment while remaining professional and
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package including Pro-Sal and signing/relocation bonus. No after-hour emergency or on call rotation means that you get to experience all that Lapeer Michigan has to offer to ensure a work/life balance. A background of beautiful architecture, outstanding scenery and a small-town feel offer a great place to call home. Send all inquiries to [email protected].
Busy rural 3 FTE, mixed animal practice is seeking a 4th high energy, happy Veterinarian to join our team FT/PT. Flexible scheduling is available. We practice high quality medicine by developing trusting relationships with our clients and patients. Dogs/cats/pocket pets/ horses and small ruminants are provided with top notch care both in our 6000 square foot facility and in home and farm call settings. After hour emergency duty is shared equally amongst vets. Base salary plus production, 100% of the emergency fee, PTO, CEU, all license fees, health/dental, professional liability, ST/LT disability, life insurance, IRA with 3% match, Discretionary bonuses (profit based), uniforms and phone allowances and more! New/newly graduated veterinarians are welcome to apply, and mentoring is a priority. Call/email for more information: [email protected] or 989/304-1419.
Small animal practice in SW Michigan looking for Associate Veterinarian. Well established practice (30+ years), very busy and looking to expand staff (currently single doc). Small town, friendly feel. Loyal staff and clients, relaxed atmosphere practicing excel-lent medicine. Full time hours preferred, but part time options available. MINIMAL emergency/on-call schedule. M–F 9 –5 pm, closed for lunch, no weekend clinical hours. Two offices, but only 10 miles away, split the week between the two locations. Advanced tech includes therapy laser, cutting/surgery laser, ultrasound, Avimark computer program, Cryotherapy pen, Tonopen, IDEXX in house blood machines. Great benefits include health insurance, IRA plan, vacation and holidays, paid CE. If you’re looking for a great work/life balance and a healthy work environment, please inquire! Please send resume to [email protected] or call 586/291-0960 for further inquiries.
Located in downtown Plymouth, Michigan, we are a family friendly privately owned practice looking for a part-time to full-time associate veterinarian for small animal medicine and surgery. We have no on call or after hour emergency. We strive to maintain a healthy work life balance for all staff while maintaining high quality medicine and caring relationships with all our clients and patients. Our practice has digital x-ray, dental x-ray and in house labs. Please email resume and cover letter to Dr. Low at [email protected]. Colonial Veterinary Clinic, 1115 S. Main Street, Plymouth, MI 48170, 734/459-1600.
Do you want to work at a clinic that is learning and growing? Do you need to go home after working a fulfilling day feeling stimulated and challenged? If so, we are the clinic you have been looking for. You’ll find all the usual perks here for the perfect part time or full time Associate to add to our two doctor small animal clinic in a small community with a big heart. Our core values and Fear Free atmosphere ensure that pets are receiving high quality care from the puppy stage to their end of life care. There is a lot of potential for the right energetic and enthusiastic person. We do work hard and play hard! We love taco Tuesday, pizza
Friday and cake for staff birthdays! Please send your resume to [email protected] or call 517/767-3011 for more information.
YOU FOUND THE ONE! You’ll thrive at our practice if you value healthy life/work balance, a family-like team culture, and dedication to providing the best possible medical care to your patients. Our small animal clinic is looking for a part or full time veterinarian to provide surgical and outpatient services at our growing hospital. We highly value fear free methods, continuing educa-tion, and compassion fatigue awareness. Located in Clawson, Kimball Animal Hospital is close to everything! Please send your resume to [email protected] and we can start talking about why you’ll feel at home at Kimball Animal Hospital.
VetSelect Animal Hospitals has an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic associate veterinarian to join our well-regarded teams in Novi and Dearborn, MI. We are looking for a full-time veterinarian to split time between these thriving practices. Each hospital of-fers a welcoming atmosphere and commitment to high quality veterinary care for companion animals. Both facilities are equipped with advanced diagnostic features, including digital x-rays, digital dental x-rays, ultrasound and surgical lasers. Our long tenured and supportive teams make our practice an ideal place to grow and learn new skills. While experience is preferred, we would happily accept the right new graduate. We are a family of practices with a long history and reputation that separates us from oth-ers—see what all the buzz is about! We support our veterinarians with superior salary, benefits including health and dental, 401(k), CE allowance, vacation, dues, liability coverage, outstanding practice teams, and a family friendly atmosphere. To apply, email [email protected].
Full-Time Veterinary Position: Eaton Rapids is conve-niently located between Lansing, Charlotte, Mason and Jackson. Eastwood Veterinary Hospital is an established small animal practice seeking a full-time veterinarian to join our team. We offer a four day work week with 1–2 Saturdays per month. There are no after-hour emergencies and no on-call. We renovated this spring—there is a beautiful office with a view for our new team member! Equipment includes digital radiography, ultrasound, tonometer, Abaxis laboratory, and use of external labs as well. We have a digital dental radiography, and our surgery suite is well equipped with new monitors and instruments. We have a welcoming, supportive work environment and enjoy collaborating on cases. The position will include regular surgery and appointments. Our clientele is friendly and our workplace is relaxed and pleasant. Interested candidates can review the hospital at EastVet.com, and please submit resumes to [email protected].
Associate veterinarian, FT or PT at Cross Veterinary Clinic in Grand Blanc, MI. Beautiful spacious building. Currently a one doctor, small animal practice with 3 LVT’s and excellent support staff. Digital radiography, digital dental radiography, ultrasound, surgical laser and IDEXX CBC, chem and Sedivue. No weekends or emergency work. Please contact Dr. Fleming or Stacey at [email protected].
Livonia Veterinary Hospital seeks associate DVM, a people-person who is excited about veterinary
medicine. Patient care, client education and com-munication are strengths of our practice. Desirable compensation package offered. Full-time or part-time option. Reply to [email protected].
Veterinarian: Full-time and/or part-time positions avail-able in a beautiful lakeshore setting. Duties include: high volume spay/neuter, healthcare for animals in the humane society, low-income vaccine clinics, etc. Salary dependent on experience. Contact Harbor Humane Society at [email protected]. Please include a resume and cover letter.
Associate veterinarian wanted for our mixed practice in beautiful rural Allegan County. We practice high quality medicine and surgery in a small town family atmosphere. Looking for a team player with great communication skills, medical skills, and surgical skills. Associate will spend approximately fifty percent of the time in clinic practicing small animal medicine and surgery, and fifty percent of the time in mobile practice treating food animal, equine, and small animal patients. New graduates are welcome to apply - we enjoy mentoring! Salary commensurate with experi-ence. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
Full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian: STOP LOOKING! You have found a great practice to work at; loyal clientele, a talented staff and low cost of living! Contact us and you won’t be disappointed. Lakeshore Animal Hospital is a 3 doctor small animal practice in Muskegon, MI. We are close to beautiful Lake Michigan and the abundant activities along the Lakeshore. We are a fully equipped, modern facility including in-house IDEXX lab, digital radiography including dental radiography and a high-speed dental unit. We have an excellent support staff with most team members having 10–20 years of experience on the job. The staff knows how to have fun, and our doctors enjoy collaborating on cases. We are working toward being a certified Cat Friendly Practice as well as Fear Free. We have lasting relationships with our clientele, and they are committed to providing quality care to their pets. Referral hospitals for specialty services available 45 minutes away. We are looking for the next “RIGHT FIT” for our team. Family time and your quality of life are important to us. NO after-hour emergency duties. Benefits include health and liability insurance, licensing and professional dues as well as continuing education allowance, and Simple IRA with employer matching contributions. Learn more about us at LakeshoreAnimal.com. or on Facebook at Lakeshore Animal Hospital Muskegon.
Mentorship available for new or recent graduate or if you are just looking to see what else is out there feel free to explore our practice. Future opportunities for ownership may be available. All inquiries will be kept confidential! If you would like to discuss this op-portunity further, please contact Dr. Ingrid Hutchins at [email protected] or 231/759-7387. I look forward to hearing from you!
Is your quality of life important to you? It is to us too! We are offering flexible hours, four day work weeks, no long evenings or emergency hours, no production work, salary negotiable up to $120k with bonus potential, vacation, holidays and CE package. Community Pet Care Clinic in Maumee, Ohio is a unique full-service
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practice model. We believe all pets deserve access to veterinary care so we seek to remove barriers so pets won’t go without care. We want our veterinarians to practice medicine the way you want to and be able to provide the care necessary without turning people away so we build community partnerships and give back into a special fund. We are not a corporate owned practice and value your input as a veterinarian on our team. If you became a vet to make a difference and want to be part of a mission focused practice, we’d like to speak with you. Check out what makes us different at CommunityPetCareClinic.com. Part or full-time veterinarian positions. Experienced support team, opportunity to mentor/teach and mentoring also available. At least 1 year of clinical and general surgery experience preferred. Send resume and cover letter: [email protected].
Hidden Spring Veterinary Clinic is located in beautiful Northville Michigan. We are looking for a PT/FT as-sociate veterinarian to join our friendly crew! Flexible hours allow for an excellent work/life balance. We are fortunate to have a long time, highly skilled support staff at our well-equipped hospital. The ideal candidate would have excellent client communication skills and excel in a team environment. Interest in surgery is a plus but not required. Please contact [email protected].
Bay Area Pet Hospital is a general practice and 24/7 emergency referral hospital in Traverse City, MI. We opened in 2010 after seeing the need for a critical care hospital in our community. With the support of local referring clinics, we see emergency and critical care cases from across Northern Michigan. We are hiring for both full-time and part-time veterinarians. The full-time associate veterinarian position is scheduled 4 shifts per week. This position is responsible for monitoring of hospitalized patients as well as treating incoming emergencies, including emergency surgeries and procedures. Benefits of working with us include a flexible schedule, colleagues that help each other both with cases and with shift swaps, and an outstandingly knowledgeable and technically skilled support staff that makes coming to work fun. We also offer a competitive salary, medical insurance, generous CE allowance in addition to VIN membership, and paid vacation time. Requirements for this position include a knowledge and passion for emergency and critical care medicine, the ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with our clients, and the ability to delegate tasks to your support staff. At least one year of emergency or internship experience is preferred. Motivated new graduates will be considered. The Traverse City area is a beautiful small town located on Grand Traverse Bay (part of Lake Michigan). We are considered a vacation town by much of the state and many of the locals see no reason to ever leave. It is home to Northern Michigan College, dozens of beaches, lakes, rivers, hiking trails and both downhill and Nordic skiing. It is a huge foodie town and boasts dozens of microbreweries, many of which can be reached by water via the “Paddle for Pints” route. Please contact Dr. Karen Reabe at [email protected] for more information.
We are a multi-doctor, mixed practice looking for a small animal veterinarian to help us keep pace with our rapid growth. Sterner has been in business since 1943 seeing both large and small animals. We are
located in historic Ionia Michigan and serve clients from all over West Michigan. Our goal is to provide quality yet affordable care for all of our clients and patients. We are a full service day clinic providing surgery, dentistry, x-ray, ultrasound and in house lab work. We do not see emergencies after hours. We are seeking a motivated full or part-time veterinarian with a desire to learn and grow with our business. We are open to a variety of experience levels including new grads, and offer a competitive salary and excellent work environment. Job duties would include providing routine care and surgery for dogs and cats with a small amount of exotic medicine. We’re in the process of building a brand new small animal facility which we hope to occupy by the end of summer or early fall. If you feel you might be a good fit for this position please consider joining our team and being part of an exciting time at Sterner Vet Clinic. Please Contact Tim DeYoung, Practice Manager for more information or to set up an interview: 616/527-3320 or 616/822-5981, or [email protected].
The Dexter Animal Clinic is looking for a full or part time veterinarian. The clinic is situated in a beautiful rural setting in the Dexter Area. We are a 3 doctor practice with excellent support staff. Digital x-rays, in house labs, ultrasound, and digital dental x-ray are some of the services offered. Experience in soft tissue surgeries is preferred. Saturday morning rotation needed. We have a competitive salary and benefits package. Please send inquiries to [email protected].
Weekend Urgent Care DVM Position: We are looking for a compassionate DVM that is committed to emergency/urgent care for West Michigan. As few as one shift per month, up to full-time positions available. Cedar Animal Hospital is an AAHA accredited facility; we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care to pets and people. We offer ultrasound, digital dental and digital general radiography, in-house lab, endoscopy, as well as laser therapy —and a well-educated support team. The ideal candidate must have a passion for emergency medicine and be a client-centered clinician with excellent people skills. Hours include Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 2:00 pm–2:00 am. Contact Debbie Allaben Gair at [email protected], Cedar Animal Hospital, 3705 Gentleway, Cedar Springs, MI 49319.
Ludington, Michigan is a great place to live and work. Veterinary Medical Center is looking for an associate to join our small animal practice. Our busy two doctor practice has a great support staff and modern equip-ment. We practice high quality medicine and often most soft tissue and orthopedic procedures. Competitive salary and benefit package for new hires. For more information, visit our website or contact Paul Drewry, DVM at [email protected].
Our young, energetic team in Genesee County is looking for a happy face. PT/FT with multiple flexible schedule options to accommodate the active veterinarian. Great surgical load for the interested individual as well as an owner willing to foster specific interests of a new hire such as surgical advancement, exotics, ultrasound and/or Eastern treatment therapies. No emergency rotation, fully equipped hospital. Pay and benefits commensurate with skills and experience including Health Insurance. As a 3 doctor practice, the challenging cases are always a team effort, we win together, we lose together. Come become part
of our Fohey Veterinary Hospital team and enjoy your day to day again. Sense of humor is the most valued asset we desire. Please forward interest to our Practice Manager, Cord Johnson at [email protected] or fax to 810/686-4471.
Serenity Animal Hospital is a small animal practice in Sterling Heights, MI, seeking a full time veterinary associate to join our family! Proficiency in preventa-tive medicine, small animal surgery, and dentistry is required. Provide their resume in person, via email [email protected], or fax 586/264-9381 to Dr. Karen Michalski.
Full or PT veterinarian wanted to join our team here in centrally located Jackson, MI. We are a 2 doctor small animal and exotic practice that focuses on building long term relationships with our clients. We have a recently updated building with in house bloodwork, ultrasound, dental/digital x-ray, paperless record keeping and an amazing support staff with 5 licensed technicians. We pride ourselves in having a no drama, fun, family like atmosphere with no after hour emergencies and rotating Saturday morning services. Salary based on experience with health insurance, retirement plan, paid holidays off, as just a few of our benefits. If you are looking for a positive supportive work environment for you to grow please contact us at [email protected].
We are looking for a part-time or full-time veterinarian for our 2 doctor small animal and exotic hospital located in Brooklyn, MI. We are AAHA accredited, cat friendly, and working on becoming a Fear Free Certified Clinic. We pride ourselves in small town feel with big city quality of care. Our vision is to find an associate that will support our philosophy and become a part of our wonderful growing practice. Excellent opportunities exist for a compassionate individual to develop long-term professional relationships with an excellent team and clientele. We have an experienced team of licensed veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, receptionists and a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager on staff. We have digital radiography (standard and dental), ultrasound, IDEXX in-house lab equipment, and surgical laser. We will be expanding the clinic in 2019, allowing more space to treat our patients. The successful candidate has great people skills, is focused on quality care and excels at assuring client satisfaction. At least 4 years of experience is preferred, but is not required. Interest in orthopedics is a plus, but is not required. You can find us on the web at ColumbiaAnimalClinic.com. If you would like to work in our veterinary hospital and share our philosophy, please email your resume to [email protected], or fax to 517/592-4571.
Full time associate veterinarian needed for a well-established small animal practice in SE Michigan. AAHA certified over 50 years. Hospital is fully equipped with digital x-ray, ultrasound, IDEXX in-house lab, surgical laser and therapy laser and dental x-ray. Great benefits! No after-hour emergencies. Come join our veterinary family! Send resumes to Brenda; 22300 Greater Mack Ave. St. Clair Shores, MI, 48080 or [email protected].
Veterinary hospital in Genesee County is seeking a FT/PT licensed veterinarian for a fast-paced, multi-doctor, small animal practice. We are looking for an energetic
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doctor who enjoys building long-term relationships with their clients. This is a modern independently owned walk-in facility that has a busy surgery schedule, offers IDEXX in-house laboratory, digital radiograph, K-Laser, and surgical laser. New graduates welcome, we love to mentor! A competitive wage and benefit package is offered with buy-in potential. If you have the drive to serve our great community, please forward cover letter and resume to [email protected], Attn: Dr. Theresa Driscoll or Kristy.
Town and Country Veterinary Hospital in Allegan, MI is seeking a full-time or part-time veterinarian for our small animal hospital. The ideal candidate would be compassionate, detail oriented and highly motivated. We are a team-oriented practice that strives to provide customer service, while providing excellent care and compassion for our patients. There are no after-hour emergency duties. New graduates will be considered. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Please submit your resume to Dr. Kristin Knirk at [email protected].
We are a multi-doctor small animal hospital located in Grand Rapids, Ml, looking for a full or part-time experienced associate veterinarian to join our AAHA accredited facility. We are equipped with a full in-house lab and imaging abilities (digital radiography, digital dental radiography, ultrasound and endoscopy). We routinely work-up and treat many challenging medicine, surgery and dental cases. We also offer rehabilitation, a double board certified exotic specialist, training and behavior consultation and a large staff of licensed and non-licensed technicians. We strive to provide caring, competent and cutting edge care. We enjoy frequent referrals from nearby clinics. Check out our website at CHFA.net. Pay commensurate with skills and experi-ence, no after- hours call, formal mentoring program and excellent benefit package. Mail or email resume to Cascade Hospital for Animals, 6730 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49546; email [email protected].
North Straits Animal Clinic, Cheboygan, Michigan, is looking for an energetic, compassionate, companion animal veterinarian to serve our patients and clients at the highest level. Part-time, 2 days per week, Thursday and Friday. Please contact Robert Nelson, DVM at [email protected] or 231/290-0208.
New Grad OR Experienced Associate Position available in a well-established practice that offers a brand new 4000 square foot facility for veterinary medicine in 2019. Located just 20 miles from the wonderful Grand Rapids attractions, in Dorr, MI. Our growing community needs a second veterinarian to care for all the pets in our area. There is so much promise and potential for a bright future here!!!!!
We are M–F hours with the addition of Saturday mornings coming soon. No after hour or emergency hours required. Amazing salary and benefits offered and above all else, the best support staff team and mentor that anyone could ask for. Our business also has 3 great feeder businesses on site, Dorr Vet Grooming, Boarding and Doggy Daycare. Contact me ASAP at [email protected] or 269/793-7387 Molly Spica or Dr. Kayce Koski.
Charlotte Veterinary Hospital is looking for an energetic, compassionate, companion animal veterinarian to serve our patients and clients at the highest level. We are
well equipped with in-house laboratory, digital radiog-raphy, high-speed fiber optic dental unit, ultrasound, and state-of-the-art surgical monitoring. Exceptional compensation package includes high base guarantee, CE, professional insurance, retirement plan, and more. After-hour emergencies are referred to local ER. Please contact Robert Nelson, DVM, at [email protected] or 231/290-0208.
Animal Medical Center of Troy is seeking a full-time associate veterinarian in a well-established small animal practice in the Troy/Rochester Hills, MI area. We pride ourselves on high quality client and patient care and have a loyal, highly compliant client base looking for top notch care. AMC of Troy is also focused on a good work-life balance in a low stress environment with no after-hours or emergency requirements. We are AAHA accredited and offer a full-service hospital with fully licensed support staff, in house lab, digital x-ray, ultrasound, and laser surgery. Competitive compensa-tion package, profit sharing, 401K, CE, and licensing fees. Contact Dr. Brad Theodoroff, 248/852-9800; please send resume to [email protected].
VETERINARY CRITICAL CARE OPPORTUNITY: $200 THOUSAND PLUS skilled support staff, 9:00 am–6:00 pm shift, Veterinary Emergency Service, Oakland County, MI 586/915-0281, [email protected].
Seeking a compassionate, detail oriented veterinarian for a full-time position at small animal clinic in the town of Mattawan, Michigan. Mattawan is a small town just outside of Kalamazoo and only 30 minutes from beautiful Lake Michigan. Our busy practice employs 4 veterinarians, 4 licensed veterinary technicians, and multiple other skilled staff. We practice high quality medicine. Our veterinarians enjoy a comfortable work week, no late nights, no after-hours call. Mattawan Animal Hospital is seeking a veterinarian who has great people skills and enjoys working in a team environment. Call for more information regarding this exciting opportunity! Dr. Christine Williamson, [email protected].
The Dansville Vet Clinic is seeking a full or part-time associate to join our small animal practice. We are a well-known veterinary clinic in Dansville, Michigan that has been established for over 60 years with a solid client base. We aim to provide the highest quality care to our patients and clients, yet still have fun while doing meaningful work. There are no after hour emergencies and we are closed on Sundays and evenings, creating a great work/home balance. Pay ranges from $65–$80/hour with health insurance and benefits negotiable. Experienced DVM’s as well as new graduates are welcome. Contact us at 517/899-3903 or [email protected].
Come be a part of the rebirth of a Lake Michigan Shoreline city! The Muskegon area is undergoing a transformation from a once industrial area to now a tourist and culture center. Find out more at WatchMuskegon.com. We are looking to hire a full or part-time associate veterinarian to work at Northside Veterinary Hospital. We are dedicated to providing great customer service while providing excellent comprehensive care to their companion animals. Compensation based upon experience and skill level, with production pay as an option. We offer a 4 day work week, with rotating Saturday schedule, which
typically amounts to working every 5th or 6th Saturday. Other benefits include health insurance, disability insurance, 401k, liability insurance, paid time off, continuing education time and pay, additional pay for after-hours care, and a strong support staff. We are looking for a dedicated, caring veterinarian that looks to build lasting relationships with the clients and patients we serve. We have digital dental radiography, digital radiography, ultrasound, cryoprobe therapy, and advanced anesthesia monitoring. Come be a part of a strong, growing practice and the transformation of a shoreline community! Please contact Dr. Eric Peterson at [email protected]. For more information visit Northside-Holton-Vet.weebly.com.
Macomb, MI: Part-time/relief vet—exclusively small animal. Join our team! AAHA standards practiced. Laser, advanced dental procedures, ultrasound, and great client education/communication. Flexible hours. Call Dr. Gloria Williams, Pets Ahoy Animal Hospital, 586/598-1900.
Full-time or part-time position available for a small animal veterinarian and/or mixed animal veterinarian in wonderful Northwest Lower Michigan (only 30 minutes from Traverse City). We have an excellent staff, clientele, facility, and community located in an area named, “the most beautiful place in America”. Please email resume to [email protected]. Or, mail your resume to David Nelson, DVM, Platte Lake Veterinary Clinic, 49640 Honor Highway, Honor, MI 49640.
veterinary technicians wanted
Licensed Veterinary Technician needed for busy three doctor practice in Bay City. Come join our privately owned, family oriented practice. We practice “team medicine,” enabling techs to perform their duties while maintaining good communication and excellent patient care. Digital radiography, digital dental radiography, lasercyte, catalyst chemistry machine, companion laser therapy, and ultrasound are all performed daily by our staff. We believe strongly in client education, with which our technicians are heavily involved. We are currently looking to fill a position to work Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and every third Saturday. If you would like to be part of our team and team atmosphere, please email your resume to [email protected].
WMSNC is looking for LVT’s to work 2–3 days per week. Competitive pay, and great working environ-ment. If interested please contact Michelle Jones at [email protected] or 231/638-6369.
Veterinary hospital in Genesee County is seeking a full-time licensed veterinary technician for a fast-paced, multi-doctor, small animal practice. We are looking for an active, people-loving, outgoing person with great communication skills to join our team. This is a walk-in facility that has a busy surgery schedule. This position has the benefit of a flexible schedule, including rotational Saturday 1/2 day hours. Competitive wages and benefit package offered. If you are interested in joining our team that offers great opportunities and adventure, please forward a cover letter and resume to [email protected], Attn: Dr. Theresa Driscoll or Kristy.
Needed: Full-time LVT who wants to be part of a team that connects on a personal level. Must love a fast pace and share in Fear Free philosophy. Core values
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of positive attitude, respect, honesty, communication, and growth shape our dog and cat exclusive practice culture. We are a family of team members who love caring for our clients and patients with a new building and equipment located in Jackson, MI. Email resume to [email protected].
F/T or P/T LVT wanted for 3 doctor, mixed animal practice in Fennville, MI (beautiful West MI with great outdoor activities, shops, and of course the lakeshore). Large animal experience/interest is not required. We pride ourselves on friendly, knowledgeable care, and developing trusting client relations. Looking for a friendly, compassionate, motivated technician who works well with a team. Experience based compensa-tion. Benefits include license dues, health insurance, uniform and CE allowance, and generous staff pet discount. Email resumes to [email protected].
Licensed Veterinary Technician needed: Lake Lansing Road Animal Clinic is searching for a part-time or full-time LVT. We are a busy small animal practice located in Lansing. We have a full in-house laboratory, ultrasound, digital x-ray, dental radiography, and many other diagnostic tools. We offer competitive salary, uniform allowance, generous discount, and some benefits. Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected]. Website: LansingVetClinic.com.
practices and equipment for sale
When buying or selling a veterinary practice, rely on the expertise of Total Practice Solutions Group. See display ad this issue. Even if you plan to sell your practice yourself, contact Dr. Kurt Liljeberg for a free consultation. We are happy to help; 800/380-6872 or [email protected].
Small animal practice in south central Michigan gross-ing $405K. Practice is offered at $213K, real estate offered at $165K. (MI-1060) Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or [email protected].
Are you ready to buy or sell a veterinary practice? Valuations, consultations, buying or selling, I can help. Call or text Dr. Fred Zydeck, Broker, at 248/891-3934 or email [email protected].
High gross-high net solo small animal practice in De-troit, Michigan. Practice and real estate only $750,000. Earn over $300,000/year after debt service. Contact Dr. Fred Zydeck, call or text 248/891-3934 or email at [email protected].
Charlevoix County, Michigan: Double-Digit Growth the last 3 years! Great opportunity to live in a beauti-ful area of Northern Michigan. The SA practice is +/-2,000 square foot on approximately 1/3 acre. 3 exam rooms. Code: MI4. PS Broker Inc. 800/636-4740, [email protected], PSBroker.com.
FOR SALE! 2 Philips iE33 Ultrasound machines $12,000/each (negotiable). Both in great condition. Regularly maintained and kept clean. Probes included with each machine. 2006 Philips iE33 with 4-D capability. Includes: 4-D probe-X7-2, S8-3 probe, S5-1 probe, S12-4 probe, 2007 Philips iE33, S8-3 probe, S5-1 probe, S12-4 probe. Please contact Julie with Veterinary Cardiology Consultants at 248/946-4322 or [email protected].
Small animal/exotic practice and building for sale in Battle Creek, MI. Established for over 50 years, and owner may be willing to help finance. Contact [email protected], or 269/788-2996.
Why Peak Practice Transitions—What are you doing with your practice? Do you have a buyer? Who will handle all the detailed steps to a legal and binding practice and property transfer? When buying or selling a veterinary practice or seeking a practice opinion or valuation, contact Robert Eberline CPA at 248/390-5664 or [email protected].
For sale: IDEXX in-house blood analyzers, Lasercycle and Catalyst. Call 248/375-1440 or send email to [email protected].
relief veterinariansNorman Bayne, DVM, MS, 248/506-1104. MSU 81. SA relief work in southeast MI. Will travel. Friendly, excellent client communications skills. [email protected].
Cari Bedore, DVM, 810/965-8350. MSU 99. SA relief and/or PT 1 hour from Flint. Enjoy working in a positive team atmosphere doing medicine and surgery.
Sharisse Berk, DVM, 248/851-0739. MSU 95. Avail-able for SA relief or PT work in southeast MI.
Rhonda Bierl, DVM, 248/467-1987. MSU 00. SA/emergency relief within 1 hour of Pontiac. General medicine, soft-tissue surgery, ultrasound experience. [email protected].
Allison Birndorf, DVM, 248/459-8974. MSU 12. SA relief in SE Michigan. Will travel. Friendly and reliable. [email protected].
Courtney Chapin, DVM, 616/901-5660. MSU 02. Available for Grand Rapids area. 6 years’ experience in SA general practice, 3 years in emergency medicine; both routine and emergency surgery. Willing to travel. [email protected].
Catherine Collins, DVM, 517/980-0528. (MSU 06, MVMA member) SA relief work in the Lansing area. Willing to travel up to one hour. Friendly, efficient, strong communication skills. References & resume available. [email protected].
Kenneth Corino, DVM, 248/217-5235. MSU 94. SA relief work. SE Michigan, medicine and surgery. [email protected].
Bryan Cornwall, DVM, MBA, 248/227-0562. MSU 89. SA medicine and general surgery in SE Michigan; practice owner for 24 years. Great with clients and staff. [email protected].
Jennifer M. Dec, DVM, 248/224-1990. MSU 04. Small-animal general practice and emergency relief. Surgery, ultrasound, and excellent communication skills, [email protected].
Lisa Harris, DVM, 616/204-2670. MSU 89. Available for relief in Grand Rapids/Lakeshore area. Experienced SA medicine and surgery, avian, exotics. Friendly, good communicator. [email protected].
Sean D. Hughes, DVM, 517/552-0993; 734/674-7061. MSU 76. SE Michigan SA relief since 1999. Part-time. Prefer SE; will travel for right circumstances. [email protected].
Cindy Kalicki, DVM, 313/291-2466. MSU 94. Eight years FT, two years relief in SA general medicine/soft tissue surgery. SE Michigan, PT or relief.
Gurpreet Kaur, DVM, 248/519-3194. (MSU 15, MVMA Member) Providing service in small animal general practice and surgery in the southeast Michigan area. [email protected].
Selena Lucas, DVM, 734/330-5048. KSU 90. Flexible and friendly, excellent client communication skills. Proficient in surgery, medicine, and dentistry. Available in SE Michigan. [email protected].
Denise Jorgensen Montagna, DVM, 231/557-1536. CSU 90. SA relief or PT in western MI. Excellent client relations. References available. [email protected].
Katherine O’Connor, DVM, 248/207-3528. MSU 14. Exceptional medicine when you need it most. SA/exotics/emergency relief. Based in East Lansing, willing to travel. References available. MyReliefVet.com.
Kris Parnell, DVM, 517/881-2845. MSU 91. Available for SA relief or P/T. Will travel 1 hour of Lansing area. References upon request. [email protected].
Amy Peck, DVM, 231/557-4423. MSU 97. Available for relief in west MI/Grand Rapids/Lakeshore area. SA general medicine. Excellent communication skills, experienced and reliable. [email protected].
Sarah Sewick, DVM 810/499-0945. (University of Illinois 12, MVMA Member) SA relief in SE Michigan. Experience with general practice, emergency, high-volume spay/neuter, exotics/wildlife. Easy-going with clients and staff. [email protected].
Jim Sharp, DVM, 810/533-3598. MSU 71. SA relief, SE Michigan. Former practice owner. Proficient in sophisticated dentistry and medicine. Excellent com-municator. [email protected].
Margaret Sudekum, DVM, 616/676-2720. MSU 89. Available for part-time SA relief work in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. Good client communication skills. [email protected].
Andrea Switch, DVM, 248/302-2255. MSU 84. Available for PT or relief work. SA general medicine/soft tissue surgery in SE MI. [email protected].
Linda Vanassche, DVM, 517/896-9086. MSU 90. SA medicine, surgery and emergency; excelling in dermatology and internal med. Travel negotiable more than 1½ hours from Lansing. Excellent written/verbal communication and record keeping. [email protected].
Amy Wildrose, DVM, 517/420-5891. MSU 00. Experienced, proficient, dependable, and convivial. Available for SA relief or PT. Based in Lansing. Willing to travel. [email protected].
Jennifer Zablotny, DVM, 517/896-9146. MSU 97. Experienced SA relief for southeast and mid-MI. Refer-ences available. [email protected].
30 | the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019
vetcardiologyconsultants.com
NOVI OFFICE(Monday - Friday)
24360 Novi Road, Suite A Novi, MI 48375
248.946.4322
ROCHESTER OFFICE(Monday, Tuesday & Thursday)
265 E. 2nd Street Rochester, MI 48307
248.402.4322
ANN ARBOR OFFICE(Wednesday)
2150 W. Liberty Ann Arbor, MI 48103
248.946.4322
Willam A. BrownDVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Joanne L. DeSanaDVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)
VETERINARY CARDIOLOGY CONSULTANTSCommitted to healing hearts and improving lives...
~ Easy Transitions for Mutual Profit ~
Call on the…
Kurt Liljeberg, DVM
Licensed Real Estate Broker Experienced Practice Broker
Appraisals Practice Sales Associate Buy-In/Out Corporate Buy-Out
Office: 800-380-6872 Fax: 866-813-3639 Email: [email protected] Web: www.TotalPracticeSolutionsGroup.com
When Selling or Buying a Veterinary Practice
NOTICE OF MVMA ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETINGThe Annual Business Meeting of the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association will be held on Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at 2:30 pm at the University Club in Lansing, Michigan. The agenda is as follows:
1. CALL TO ORDER2. INTRODUCTIONS & WELCOMES3. MICHIGAN ANIMAL HEALTH
FOUNDATION REPORT4. MVMA PRESIDENT’S REPORT
If you plan to attend, please RSVP to John Tramontana at [email protected].
the michigan veterinarian · summer 2019 | 31
MVMA GREAT LAKES VETERINARY CONFERENCE
n July 21–23, 2019
Park Place Hotel & Conference Center,
Traverse City
MICHIGAN VETERINARY CONFERENCE
n January 24–26, 2020
Lansing Center & Radisson Hotel, Lansing, MI
MVMA SMALL ANIMAL SEMINARS
n Internal Medicine & Infectious Disease
(Michael R. Lappin, DVM, PhD, DACVIM)
September 11, 2019
n Endocrinology (Cynthia R. Ward, VMD, PhD,
DACVIM)
October 2, 2019
n Cardiology (William Brown, DVM, DACVIM
Cardiology)
November 6, 2019
n Diagnostic Imaging (Lorrie Gaschen, DVM)
December 4, 2019
n Surgery (Catriona MacPhail, DVM, PhD, DACVS)
March 4, 2020
n Vet Life Hacks: Communications, Leadership
and Work/Life Balance (Karlene Belyea, MBA)
April 1, 2020
Seminars 10:00 am–5:30 pm at the East Lansing Marriott. Contact
MVMA at (517) 347-4710 or register online at www.michvma.org.
MVMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
n July 21, 2019
Park Place Hotel in Traverse City
in conjunction with the Great Lakes Veterinary Conference
n September 18, 2019, 10:30 am–3:30 pm
University Club, Ballroom, Lansing
in conjunction with the Annual Meeting
n December 11, 2019, 10:30 am–3:30 pm
University Club, Fireplace Room, Lansing
due to the number of requests for ce announcements, the michigan veterinarian limits listings to ce programs in michigan.
committees, meetings & eventsMVMA COMMITTEES
n Animal Welfare Committee (Dr. Marcie Barber,
Chair)
August 15, 2019 @ 10:00 am
November 7, 2019 @ 10:00 am
n Executive Committee (Dr. Mike Thome, Chair)
June 26, 2019 @ 12:00 pm
September 4, 2019 @ 12:00 pm
November 20, 2019 @ 10:00 am
n Legislative Advisory Committee (Dr. Cathy
Anderson, Chair)
June 19, 2019 @ 1:30 pm
September 11, 2019 @ 1:30 pm
November 20, 2019 @ 1:30 pm
n Public Health Committee (Dr. Joseph Kline, Chair)
June 12, 2019 @ 1:30 pm—MSU VDL
September 25, 2019 @ 1:30 pm
December 18, 2019 @ 1:30 pm
All meetings will be held in the MVMA office unless otherwise
noted.
SAGINAW VALLEY VMA
n 4th Wednesday of each month, February–May and
September–October, with occasional additional
meetings @ 7:00 pm / The Brewery, Frankenmuth
Contact the secretary at [email protected].
WESTERN MICHIGAN VMA
n Veterinarian CE Seminars
3rd Thursday of each month, January–May and
September–November in Grand Rapids on various
topics. In addition, there will be a second meeting
each month, usually the 1st Tuesday or Wednesday,
February–May and October–December.
Contact Margaret Sudekum, DVM, to be added to the email list.
(616) 676-2720 or [email protected].
important phone numbers
MI Board of Veterinary Medicine
(517) 335-0918
MI Board of Pharmacy
(517) 373-1737
DEA: Detroit office
(313) 234-4000
DEA: toll-free
(800) 230-6844
MDARD State Veterinarian
(800) 292-3939
MI Dept. of Health & Human Services
(517) 335-8165
State of MI Health Certificates
(517) 284-5767
USDA, APHIS, VS–Accreditation
& International Health Certificates
(517) 337-4700
michigan veterinary medical association2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864-3986
Presort Standard
U.S. Postage
PAIDLansing, MI
Permit #713Professional excellence.
Compassionate care.
endorsed insurance plansf o r m v m a m e m b e r s
blue cross blue shieldBlue Care Network, Health Savings Accounts, PPO, and HMO
citizens/hanover insuranceBusiness Owners, Worker’s Compensation, Umbrella Professional Liability, Auto, and Homeowners
disability income insuranceProtect yourself and your family. MVMA members are guaranteed association discounts.
dental plans & long-term care
★ Bill Percha Ext. 140
★ Todd McKenna Ext. 167
★ Dave Palmeri Ext. 108
★ Keyonna DeVries Ext. 101
★ Jackie Vitale Ext. 115
★ Dawn Jardine Ext. 133
★ John Kufchock Ext. 144yo
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ralph c. wilson agency, inc.i n s u r a n c e e x c e l l e n c e
(800) 638-1174 www.rcwa.netproudly supporting the MVMA community since 1991
