• Home
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Subscribe
  • Bulletin Archive

Animal Health Digest

Curating useful content for animal health professionals

  • Agriculture / Climate
  • Companion Animals
    • Dogs
    • Cats
    • Other Animals
      • Exotic Animals
      • Reptiles
  • Equine
  • For Practices
    • Hospitals / Clinics
    • Personal Development
    • Professional Development
    • Veterinary Staff
      • Customer Service
  • Industry
    • Health / Safety
      • Vaccines
    • Marketing / Sales
    • Nutrition
    • Regulatory
    • Technology
  • Livestock
    • Cattle
    • Goats / Sheep
    • Poultry
    • Swine
  • Opinion
    • Editorials
    • Sponsored Content
  • AAHA
  • Subscribe

Front desk persons anchor customer experiences and are more important than ever

November 9, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: DVM 360

In a post from June 7, 2016, Katherine Dobbs, RVT, CVPM, PHR reminded front desk persons that people NEED you, and you need them. Fast forward to 2021 and we find the importance of first contact personnel setting the tone for each visit hasn’t changed. In fact, their roles may be more important than ever. Every single client that walks through your door has a worry (or need), … [Read more...]

IBPSA Fast Bites – November 8, 2021

November 9, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: IBPSA

Small Business Saturday tips, pet industry growth projected to continue, outside investors wild about online pet industry opportunities, CBD more mainstream, pet owners seeking healthy pet food attributes and more. Achieving certified pet care status has become increasingly important and acts as a differentiator for pet care community businesses and for advancing the skills … [Read more...]

Best practices for legal and ethical issues with delivering virtual care

November 9, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: VVCA

    The Veterinary Virtual Care Association provides a free resource for veterinary practices considering or implementing virtual care and navigating legal and ethical considerations. The free resource covers topics like: VCPRs Licensing Medical Record Keeping Malpractice Insurance Client Communication Prescribing Source: VVCA, June 2020. … [Read more...]

Medical exemptions to mandates? 5 answers from a legal expert.

November 9, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Human Resource Executive

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission continues to issue guidance to employers on how to evaluate medical exemption requests, but not every situation will be covered. Helene Hechtkopf* shares the basic process by which an employer should evaluate a medical exemption request and presents factors that will impact decisions. Source: Human Resource Executive, November 1, … [Read more...]

Time to FOCUS on biosecurity

November 9, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: National Hog Farmer, Virox® Technologies

Opinion The theme for the Kate Dion’s discussion of the biosecurity research currently in progress could be begin with the end in mind. She describes current work at Iowa State University to understand the rate of disease transmission in growing pigs and associate the timing of disease introduction with <location> biosecurity characteristics or events that could cause … [Read more...]

Veterinarian shortage or not, many pet owners dislike waiting

November 9, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, VOA

Not all U.S. industry leaders agree on whether there are enough veterinarians to meet pet owner demands for care. Still, veterinary positions* are anticipated to grow 16% by 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Veterinarian scarcity or only a perception of one . . . pet owners dislike waiting.” Source: Voice of America (VOA), November 6, 2021. Link. INSIGHTS: … [Read more...]

Worth a Glance – November 3, 2021

November 3, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: AAHA NewStat, Animal Wellness, CNBC, Daily Motivation, Mental Floss, Wall Street Journal

Last week’s. . . . . . most read post Beef upcycles well. It’s a great story we all can share. Link. . . . AHD Bulletin Animal Health Digest Bulletin - October 28, 2021. Link.   Culling moose in Maine to control ticks Source: Wall Street Journal, November 1, 2021. Link to PDF. To save Maine’s moose population from being decimated by ticks, … [Read more...]

60 percent more milk from 30 percent fewer cows

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Advanced Animal Diagnostics, Dairy Herd Management, QScout®

Karen Bohnert shares some of the drivers changing the future of U.S. dairy including areas where cows will be milked in the future.  Source: Dairy Herd Management, August 31, 2021. Link.  Sponsored Content Our industry’s researchers have investigated all aspects of individual cow health during, ahead of and at the end of milk production. Early detection of infection at … [Read more...]

Paired housing in lieu of group housing

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Hoard’s Dairyman

Group housing for dairy calves is not an easy system for all farms to implement. Dairies can still reap the benefits that come from raising calves in social groups by housing two calves together as a pair. I really like pair housing because we get a lot of the advantages of social housing without the detrimental effects of large groups. There is a lot of opportunity to modify … [Read more...]

Equine eye microbiota assessed for fungi

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: The Horse

A look at the eyes of 24 horses and applying advanced genomic sequencing technology have revealed which fungi are most common in healthy eyes and how those microscopic populations differ in pastured horses compared to stalled horses <Link>. The research team determined that the most common fungi in their study horses’ eyes were: Leptosphaerulina, 22.7 percent … [Read more...]

New study suggests vegan pet food as healthful* for dogs and cats as meat

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: PetsRadar

A controversial new research study showed that cats and dogs on a plant-based diet had health outcomes that were as good or better as those pets being fed diets containing meat. *Study leader Dr. Andrew Knight was quick to point out that the results only apply to vegan meals that have been formulated to include added nutrients that ensure that dogs and cats are getting a … [Read more...]

The secret to hiring customer service employees

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Forbes

A great customer experience depends on great employees, says Micah Solomon. The secret is to hire your customer-facing team based on psychological traits, in addition to thinking about the specific skill set you’re looking for. Solomon shares five key traits using the acronym W.E.T.C.O.: Warmth Empathy Teamwork Conscientiousness Optimism Source: Forbes, … [Read more...]

IBPSA Fast Bites – November 1, 2021

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: IBPSA

Shelter dog makeovers, conservation dogs helping endangered species, digital marketing for small business, who spends the most on their pets, how to get paid as a small business owner and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, November 1, 2021. Link. … [Read more...]

Leadership word of the day: DISAPPOINTED

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Ed Batista

Eventually, we all get upset or angry. Loosing our cool is simply not effective when dealing with employees or with recalcitrant clients. The key is to convey these feelings of discontent in ways that will evoke an emotional reaction, capture attention and heighten the immediate pressures of reality. But it’s essential to evoke the right response because not just any feelings … [Read more...]

Know and share the signs, risk of EHD in deer and livestock

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Drovers

We’re posting this because deer seasons have opened around the country. Please consider sharing it with local media to encourage hunters and livestock producers to be on the lookout for deer, particularly whitetail deer, and livestock exhibiting symptoms. EHD is a reportable disease in North Dakota where drought has caused many producers to relocate their cattle. The virus … [Read more...]

For decisions, build bridges, not tunnels

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Engage Selling

Buying decisions aren’t made in vacuums. They are made by buying communities. says Colleen Francis. And we ALL are in the relationship-building business. While Francis focuses on sales, this guidance is important for any decision process that affects multiple stakeholders. Source: Engage Selling, October 29, 2021. Link. Stakeholders come in many forms and not all of them … [Read more...]

Cost of veterinary care concerns consistent among generations

November 2, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, The Bridge Club, Vet Watch

Includes Sponsored Content Addressing concerns about the affordability of veterinary care runs high among pet owners of all generations, according to data presented in VetWatch™: For emergency services, 42 percent of vet clients are strongly concerned, 32 percent are somewhat concerned. For routine healthcare, 33 percent are strongly concerned, 35 percent are … [Read more...]

Worth a Glance – October 28, 2021

October 27, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Fast Company, Harvard Health Letter, Pets Radar

Last week’s. . . . . . most read post When do we need to re-treat? Cattle Chat discussion. Link. . . . AHD Bulletin Animal Health Digest Bulletin - Oct 21, 2021. Link.   "Pandemic posture" hurting your back? You can fix it! Source: Harvard Health Letter, October 1, 2021. Link. Here’s what to do if you’ve developed back pain from poor posture habits … [Read more...]

Canine coronavirus was found in human pneumonia samples

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: NPR

Coronavirus outbreaks aren't rare and will likely occur every decade or so. Research published in May 2021 has identified a canine corona virus in patients hospitalized with pneumonia. The samples came from patients at a hospital in Malaysia, taken by a collaborator in 2017 and 2018. Virologist Xuming Zhang says he wouldn't be surprised if this dog virus is, in fact, a new … [Read more...]

Pigs will upcycle almost anything into nutritious food

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Hobby Farms

There’s no animal superior to the pig at converting surplus nutrients into dense, living flesh. You might call pigs on-the-hoof food storage, writes Shawn and Beth Dougherty. Their context is hobby or subsistence farming, but the list of things hogs will eat should be interesting to anyone who never slopped the hogs. Pigs, like humans, are omnivores; they eat just about … [Read more...]

Why dogs like your head and hair

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Dogs and Clogs

Pet owners often ask why their dog licks their head, hair and so on. Petya Natrcheva shares nine reasons they act this way. Dog owners will appreciate this list if you share it on social media or in newsletters. Source: Dogs and Clogs. Link. Your dog licks your hair on your head because that’s how they show affection, or they like the taste of your skin, want to groom you, … [Read more...]

Chatfields and AVMA Trust launch recurring segment for veterinary students

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Chats with the Chatfields

Complimentary “Chats with the Chatfields” is partnering with the AVMA Trust to bring listeners “V’s View from Vet School.” This monthly recurring segment will follow Veronica, a veterinary student, as she takes the journey to become a veterinarian. Source: Chats with the Chatfields, October 26, 2021. Link. Veronica has a unique pre-vet school background: She is a … [Read more...]

IBPSA Fast Bites – October 25, 2021 edition

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: IBPSA

Pet wellness trends, Amazon’s $18 average hourly wage, SEO for boosting website performance, quality comparisons of internationally sourced products and IBPSA’s rebate program enrollment. Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, October 25, 2021. Link. … [Read more...]

What is really causing today’s extreme talent shortage?

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Training Magazine

There’s no clear answer to why employers are faced with more severe talent shortages than we’ve seen in the last 25 or more years. While the particulars differ by geography, industry, skill specialization and level, Bruce Tulgan says evidence of talent shortages is widespread: Voluntary unplanned turnover (the “quit rate”) is increasing. Pent-up departure demand (the … [Read more...]

Viruses are the villains and heroes of life as we know it

October 26, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: The Conversation, You Tube

Bacteriophages are viruses known to infect bacteria and keep bacterial populations in check. Their ability to selectively kill bacteria also has medical doctors excited. Natural and engineered phages have been successfully used to treat bacterial infections that do not respond to antibiotics. Ivan Erill, PhD, discusses how virulent and temperate phages work, invade and … [Read more...]

Worth a Glance – October 21, 2021

October 19, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Backyard Poultry, Chats with the Chatfields, Fast Company, Petfood Industry, SFGATE, The Bullvine

Last week’s. . . . . . most read post Grain-free? Grain-ful? The Chatfields discuss pet food choices. Link. . . . AHD Bulletin Animal Health Digest Bulletin - Oct 14, 2021. Link.   Label pea-protein cat food as not for ferrets, vet says Source: Petfood Industry, October 11, 2021. Link. Bladder stones in ferrets may be related to diets containing … [Read more...]

Soundness exams. No bull, they’re for bulls.

October 19, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Farm Progress, University of Missouri Extension

With harvest underway it is easy to put off soundness exams for herd bulls kept for breeding. Fall is the optimal time to get your beef bulls examined and identify any performance issues before turning them in with the cows. Source: Farm Progress, October 14, 2021. Link. Bull soundness exams include: Assess the body condition Rate the feet Check the … [Read more...]

Undeniably Dairy campaign designed to reach Gen Z

October 19, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Dairy Checkoff, Farm Progress, Undeniably Dairy

Did you know The dairy checkoff’s Undeniably Dairy campaign has a new wave to create deeper connections between Gen Z and dairy products. The campaign will use media channels and marketing strategies, including gaming, social media influencers and digital content, to engage with Gen Z to grow sales and trust of dairy. Did you know dairy can do more than set you at ease? It … [Read more...]

Safely control those rodents moving in with you

October 19, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Countryside, Oklahoma State University, The Outdoor Wear

It’s that time of the year when rodents move inside to escape chilly weather. They can damage buildings, walls, contaminate food items and transmit diseases to people and pets. It is important to take proper precautions to keep them from entering. Choose and consider the best ways to keep the rodents away. It can be natural or chemical. Source: The Outdoor Wear, October … [Read more...]

Kid approved chicken chores

October 19, 2021 by Kirk Augustine Source: Acreage Life

The Centers for Disease Control continues to warn people to stop cuddling and kissing backyard poultry because chickens may spread salmonella. The warnings are warranted, but chickens are excellent starter animals for homesteaders or home-produced food enthusiasts. Kids enjoy the birds too. Patrick Diggs, PhD, shares chicken chores kids can help with and reinforces the CDC … [Read more...]

« Previous Page
Next Page »

Sponsored by

Contributors

Adam Augustine, Ph.D.

Kirk Augustine

Mary Grace Erickson

Jill Heggen

Patrick T. Malone

Tammy M. Platt, Ph.D.

Rick Purnell

Founders Circle

Archives

  • April 2026
  • March 2026
  • February 2026
  • January 2026
  • December 2025
  • November 2025
  • October 2025
  • September 2025
  • August 2025
  • July 2025
  • June 2025
  • May 2025
  • April 2025
  • March 2025
  • February 2025
  • January 2025
  • December 2024
  • November 2024
  • October 2024
  • September 2024
  • August 2024
  • July 2024
  • June 2024
  • May 2024
  • April 2024
  • March 2024
  • February 2024
  • January 2024
  • December 2023
  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • June 2023
  • May 2023
  • April 2023
  • March 2023
  • February 2023
  • January 2023
  • December 2022
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • August 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • November 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015

About us

Animal Health Digest, LLC is a content curation and aggregation service for animal health professionals. We continuously read and review more than 150 publications that produce articles, studies, reviews, white papers and other material for veterinarians, veterinary professionals, veterinary support staff, companion animal owners and livestock owners. Learn more.

Recent Posts

  • Done. Delegated. Deferred: Ending rumination key to professionals’ health April 21, 2026
  • Speaking with conviction April 21, 2026
  • Nick Saban: Three lessons to keep you grounded (video) April 21, 2026
  • 17 polite habits most people secretly dislike April 21, 2026
  • IBPSA Fast Bites – April 20, 2026 April 21, 2026

Search

Copyright © 2026 · Animal Health Digest, LLC