Clinical trials are critical to discover new treatments and deepen our understanding of diseases. The AVMA Animal Health Studies database connects you with veterinary clinical trials reported by researchers. There are a wide variety of opportunities to contribute as a veterinarian or as an animal owner with veterinarian support. Source: AVMA. Link. … [Read more...]
The modern pet telehealth industry is improving veterinary practices
Vetster’s Cerys Goodall writes about the benefits and opportunities for veterinary telehealth in the article linked here. For veterinary teams who have yet to fully use telehealth, it makes a good backdrop for a team discussion. Goodall says telehealth provides unique solutions for consumers and veterinarians while filling in the gaps of in-person clinics. She adds that … [Read more...]
Pet toxicology experts release state-specific top 20 toxins list in new Toxin Trends
March is Pet Poison Prevention Month. Using five years of proprietary call data, Pet Poison Helpline released the next version of Toxin Trends. This online resource helps consumers and veterinary professionals research harmful and potentially deadly toxins in their area. Source: CISION, March 1, 2023. Link. We wanted to share our proprietary data to help educate pet lovers … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – February 2, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, January 26, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from January 26th AHD Bulletin – Habits that annoy coworkers and ways to mitigate them. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy Vets. Link. KC Corridor’s Emily McVey wins 40 Under 40 in Economic Development Award Source: … [Read more...]
AVMA sponsors National Pet Dental Health Month
The AVMA shares dental health is a critical part of pet’s overall health, noting dental problems can cause, or be caused by, other health problems. Check out the AVMA dental care resources on the AVMA website which promote home care, share what to expect at the veterinary clinic, support anesthesia and urge pet owners to have their pets’ mouth checked annually. Source: AVMA. … [Read more...]
Dogs’ social lives and disease risks – Tips for canine and human safety
Dog parks, doggie day cares, boarding, competitions, retail stores and training classes all create environments where dogs with varied and unknown health histories interact. These situations create risk for dogs and owners alike. Consider these resources from the AVMA for social media and newsletters to help inform pet owners. Source: AVMA. Link. … [Read more...]
AVMA House of Delegates rejects midlevel practitioner idea, favors support for CVTs
The AVMA House of Delegates’ Veterinary Information Forum addressed the topic, The veterinary healthcare team—Is there a need for a mid-level position? during the AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference, January 5-7 in Chicago. The consensus from conversations was that a mid-level practitioner would not be a smart solution to workforce or access-to-care concerns. Rather, time … [Read more...]
Compounding webinar outlines FDA final guidance #256
Regulatory education FDA Veterinarian Amber McCoig examines the policies included in this guidance and what they mean for veterinarians and their teams in the webinar. She also discusses how the agency’s final guidance tries to balance the risks of compounding animal drugs from bulk substances when there is no FDA-approved drug available, and why the FDA can’t assure the … [Read more...]
AVMA Humane Slaughter Guidelines now available for comment
Dr. Robert Meyer says expanded guidelines have been made more user-friendly via organization by species, rather than by techniques. More species are also cited. This includes the slaughter of animals not primarily designated for the food chain, such as animals raised for fur. Every stage of the slaughter process is addressed, from an animal’s arrival at a facility, when … [Read more...]
Tail docking . . . the debate continues
Jennifer Bailey, DVM, shares information about tail docking and its pros and cons. Tail docking is generally done only to meet breed standards for some purebred dogs. AAHA and the AVMA have issued statements that oppose tail docking: AAHA statement, updated June 2021. Link. AVMA statement. Link. Article, 2008. Link. Source: Whole Dog Journal, November 4, 2022. … [Read more...]
Campaign seeks to make November senior pet month
Senior Pet Advocates is recognizing November as Senior Pet Health Month. The group believes it is important to emphasize senior pets require additional care, such as more frequent examinations and diagnostics. Plus, their owners may need nutritional and behavioral counseling. Source: AVMA, October 18, 2022. Link. Senior Pet Advocates plans on growing support for the … [Read more...]
National Vet Technician Week – October 16-22, 2022
Don’t forget to celebrate and promote the valuable contributions veterinary technicians make to the veterinary profession and society. The AVMA and NAVTA have resources available to assist with social media, in-clinic or local media promotion of these important team members. Sources: AVMA. Link NAVTA. Link … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – August 4, 2022
Last week’s most read posts The oral microbiome, new in the clinical practice of dentistry. Link. Grief balloon ends up scaring a pony. Link. The all-important pre-purchase exam of a horse. Link. Last week’s AHD Bulletin - Animal Health Digest Bulletin, Thursday, July 28, 2022. Link. ========================================= AVMA delegates pass policies … [Read more...]
Coalition of veterinary groups launches telehealth initiative
The Coalition for Connected Veterinary Care launched this morning at AVMA Convention 2022 in Philadelphia. The founding members are the AVMA, Veterinary Study Groups and Merck Animal Health, along with more than 30 veterinary organizations and companies that have signed on so far. The coalition will develop education and resources to help veterinarians integrate telehealth … [Read more...]
AVMA Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities turns 50 years old
The roles of veterinary technicians have been evolving since the 1960’s. Katie Burns shares the history and evolution of vet tech education and governance. The whys and hows shared provide good context for today’s animal health pros. Founded in 1972, the AVMA Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities that will celebrate its 50th anniversary in July. The … [Read more...]
Engaging veterinary technicians improves practice success
Unless you’ve been hiding, the industry buzz about using veterinary technicians better is familiar. Having credentialed veterinary technicians on veterinary teams with the skills needed is a critical part of building an efficient practice. However, efficiency only comes when those skills are used effectively. The AVMA continues to promote and support increased involvement … [Read more...]
First aid tips for pet owners
Spring and outdoor activities are wonderful but come with risks of injuries for pets. Pet owners need to be prepared to offer first aid to their pets when an injury occurs. First aid is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it can help save a pet's life until it gets veterinary treatment. The AVMA offers several resources suitable for social media, newsletters and … [Read more...]
Too many pets kept alive when it’s not the kindest option, say vets
Some veterinarians are warning too many owners are spending huge amounts of money on keeping their pets alive, even when it’s not the most humane option, writes Rachel Hall. Although veterinary science has made impressive advances in recent years, some say extending an animal’s life at all costs is not always the best option for them and can result in bills of thousands of … [Read more...]
Gonadectomy resources for veterinarians
Elective and often controversial, pet sterilization is an important part of pet owner decision making. As the risks and benefits of gonadectomy are re-examined, a renewed conversation about if and when to sterilize a pet is emerging. The AVMA stays on top of this topic and provides resources for veterinarians and pet owners as spay and neuter decisions are considered. As we … [Read more...]
Latest well-being study reveals increased distress among veterinary professionals
It is no surprise the pandemic impacted many veterinarians and clinic staff, including veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, practice managers and client service representatives. More than 90 percent of study respondents reported the shortage of qualified veterinary staff has been one of the biggest concerns throughout the pandemic. Sixty eight percent indicated … [Read more...]
Reminder: February is Pet Dental Month
Opinion National Pet Dental Health Month is celebrated in February to reinforce the importance of pet dental health and as a reminder for pet owners to practice routine oral care on their pets. It is sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Call it dental care or oral care, it is a critical component of healthy pet management at home, in veterinary … [Read more...]
First aid kits for dogs
Carrying two adhesive bandages with you doesn’t represent a first aid kit for a dog or you. Pet owners can keep a separate and customized first aid kit for their pet for in case of an injury or emergency. Of course, the type of pet and its lifestyle determines how extensive the first aid kit needs to be. Source: Puppies and Pooches, November 29, 2021. Link. Also see: The … [Read more...]
Top 5 holiday dangers for pets
Holiday decorations are appearing worldwide. Pet owners will appreciate reminders about commonly found holiday dangers for pets as they gather or travel for celebrations. Jenifer Chatfield, DVM, and twin brother Jason Chatfield, DVM, share five top holiday dangers: Out-of-town guests; people and their pets Holiday decorations; tinsel, ornaments and seasonal plants … [Read more...]
Rabies; imported dog last week, now a bat in a zoo
A rabid bat was found alive at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. It is the second rabid bat found in San Diego County so far this year. Last week we shared a report on an imported dog infected with rabies. There are still a few states that do not require an owner to vaccinate their pet for rabies. These states may delegate the decision to the local governments. In addition, … [Read more...]
Honeybees on the move
The USDA report on bee movement adds an additional dimension to beekeeping and survival as more animal health pros are engaged in bee health initiatives. Similar to food animals, bees experiences stress during transportation and more risks as they are deployed in monocultures. Honeybees fall into veterinarians' purview because of the VFD rule and changes in FDA policy on … [Read more...]
April 11-17 is National Dog Bite Prevention Week
There are an estimated 77 million dogs living in U.S. households and millions of people are bitten by dogs every year. Most, if not all, of these bites are preventable. The American Veterinary Medical Association has assembled worthwhile tips for observing National Dog Bite Preparedness Week® and tools for bringing dog bite prevention education to clinics and … [Read more...]
AVMA resources address diversity and inclusion in veterinary medicine
The AVMA has a suite of resources available to help veterinary professionals address and remove barriers to equity and inclusion. Creating socially conscious educational and work environments are imperatives for veterinary professionals whose oath includes public health. Veterinarians, team members, and students must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs … [Read more...]
AVMA seeking comments on educational criteria for technicians
The AVMA Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities is considering changes to three educational standards and accepting public comment on the proposed edits through March 1, 2021. Changes to the following standards are under consideration: Standard 1 - Institutional Accreditation Standard 2 – Finances Standard 3 - Organization and … [Read more...]
Wildfire smoke can affect healthy lungs
Meteorologists predict the smoke from wildfires could potentially affect air quality in one-third of the western and midwestern states. A combination of high temperatures and elevated levels of particles from fires can affect even healthy lungs. For someone with lung damage or respiratory illness, moderate levels of smoke particulate can exacerbate respiratory problems, writes … [Read more...]
Keep pets safe during July 4th celebrations
Independence Day is Saturday and celebrations are already underway. While fun for us, the noisy festivities can scare pets and some run away. Plus, the foods we like can be unhealthful for them and firework debris can be dangerous. The American Veterinary Medical Association has helpful safety tips worth sharing. Source: American Veterinary Medical Association. Link. Make … [Read more...]