2025 Legislative Update: Veterinary Profession to Face Challenges in
From Our Members: Helping Kenya End Rabies Transmission from Dogs by Deborah Aparicio, DVM
CVMA Discusses Member Survey Results, 2025 Legislation at Annual Thank You, CVMA PAC Contributors!
Unity: Bridging Worlds: blendVET's Innovative Approach to Diversifying Veterinary Medicine Unites Classrooms, Clinics, Educators, and Volunteers by Niccole Bruno, DVM
20 CVMA Is Proud to Partner with blendVET at the 2025 Pacific Veterinary Conference!
28 What’s a Better Solution for Pet Owners: Financing or Pet Insurance?
31 Workplace Safety: Handle with Care: Best Practices for Safe Animal Handling
32 Unique Insights from an Avian Practitioner: A Journey into a Feathered World of Practice by Brian Speer, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice), DECZM (Avian)
34 A Conversation with the CVMA’s California Emerging Leader, Dr. Elizabeth Grant
40 CDFA News: California’s 2025 Reportable Disease List
42 Weighing the Pros and Cons: Employment Contracts in the Veterinary Profession 10 14 34
4 CE Calendar
5 Director’s Corner
6 News & Now
7 Member Profile: Guntej Singh Grewal, DVM
30 Compliance Corner: Who Can Administer Rabies Vaccines and Sign Rabies Vaccination Certificates in Veterinary Practices?
36 University News 37 Student News
38 Something to Wag About 44 CVMA Remembers 45 Classifieds
46 Ad Index
Upcoming CE
22 CVMA Pacific Veterinary Conference in Long Beach
29 Online Seminars
35 CVMA Spring Seminar in Yosemite
39 CVMA Equine Medicine Seminar in Yosemite
CVMA Spring Seminar in Yosemite
April 4–6, 2025 | 12 CEUs
For more information, see page 35.
CVMA Equine Medicine Seminar in Yosemite
April 4–6, 2025 | 12 CEUs
For more information, see page 30.
CVMA Online Seminar: Role of Companion Animals in Public Health Outbreaks, Including H5N1
May 6, 2025 | 12:30–1:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
May 8, 2025 | 5:30–6:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
For more information, see page 29.
CVMA Pacific Veterinary Conference in Long Beach
June 27–30, 2025 | 28.5 CEUs
For more information, see page 22.
CVMA Online Seminar: Access to Veterinary Care: Affordable or Excellent—Why Not Both?
July 22, 2025 | 12:30–1:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
July 24, 2025 | 5:30–6:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
For more information, see page 29.
Registration for all CVMA events can be made online by logging onto cvma.net or by calling 800.655.2862.
CVMA-AFFILIATED PROGRAMS
California Veterinarian (ISSN 00081612) is published bi-monthly by the California Veterinary Medical Association, e-mail: staff@cvma.net. California Veterinarian is an official publication of the California Veterinary Medical Association. Annual subscription rates to non-members: $50 U.S., $60 Canada/Mexico, $70 overseas. Price per single copy: $10 current year, $12 back issues. Periodicals postage paid at Sacramento, CA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to California Veterinarian, 1400 River Park Dr., Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95815-4505. Phone: 800.655.2862
The Publication of the California Veterinary Medical Association
Publisher Dan Baxter
Managing Editor Taryn DeOilers
Editor Kristen Calderon
Publication Designer Marissa Collier
Classified Advertising Laura Phillips
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
President Dr. Jennifer Hawkins
President-Elect Dr. Peter Bowie
Member-at-Large Dr. Jodi Woods
Members
Dr. Heather Bessoff
Dr. Kelly Byam
Dr. Patrick Connolly
Dr. Eleanor Dunn
Dr. Inez del Pino
Nicole Dickerson, RVT
Dr. Misty Hirschbein
Dr. Diane McClure
Dr. Teresa Morishita
Dr. Shari O'Neill
Dr. Kevin Terra
Dr. Laura Weatherford
Dr. Brent Wooden
Treasurer Dr. Ron Kelpe
Chair, House of Delegates Dr. Georgina Marquez
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES
University of California, Davis Alexis McBride
Western University Samantha Rosander
CVMA STAFF
Executive Director Dan Baxter
Director of Member Services Kristen Calderon
Director of Communications Taryn DeOilers
Director of Conferences and Events Sarah Erck, CMP
Director of Regulatory Affairs Grant Miller, DVM
Director of Finance Thomas F. Palmieri, CPA
Executive/Legislative Assistant Amber Bernhard
Conference Speaker Coordinator Lily Briggs
Finance Coordinator Sharmele Browne
Design & Print Manager Marissa Collier
Conference Expo Coordinator Erica Ferrier
Membership and Student Services Manager Laura Phillips
Membership Coordinator Jennifer Smith
Accountant Kimberly Wills-Lee
Receptionist Mary Young
DISPLAY ADVERTISING
Please contact Erica Ferrier at 916.649.0599 ext. 15 or email eferrier@cvma.net.
Tell us what you think!
Want to comment on what the CVMA is doing or writing about? Send an email to comments@cvma.net or call 800.655.2862. Your thoughts and opinions matter to us. The CVMA is YOUR association—let us hear your voice!
One distinguishing feature of association life in comparison to many other workplace environments is its cyclicity (yes, that is actually a word). I noticed this characteristic almost immediately upon taking my position as the CVMA’s Executive Director in September of 2020, and it took several spins around the sun for me to become fully acclimated to the unique rhythms of the CVMA, which are quite different from what I was used to in my former work life.
While the CVMA currently observes a fiscal year that runs from July through June, “my” year begins—at least mentally—in probably much the same way as yours…in January. My schedule comes flying out of the gates with the AVMA’s Veterinary Leadership Conference, which takes place annually in Chicago during the first or second week of January (brrrrrr). That event is followed by mid-January meetings of the California Veterinary Medical Board (CVMB) and its Multidisciplinary and Advisory Committee (MDC), two online “new laws” webinars that my CVMA colleague Dr. Grant Miller and I give shortly thereafter, and then late January meetings of the CVMA’s Board of Governors and House of Delegates. February brings legislative season, with separate meetings of our legislative “team” and Legislative Committee to discuss new proposed laws affecting the veterinary profession, and the CVMA’s position on each. Those positions are then forwarded to the Board of Governors, who directs the CVMA’s official legislative positions at its meeting in March...right around the time that you are reading this article!
Since we run on a July to June fiscal year, the CVMA’s budget process also takes wing in the early part of the year. Our Finance Director and Treasurer take the lead on that effort, preparing a draft budget and supporting documentation that is first presented to the CVMA’s Finance Committee before going to the Board of Governors for review and approval. Contemporaneously, our process for installing new and renewing Board members moves forward via member elections (for geographic governors) and appointment by the CVMA’s Leadership Committee (for at-large governors), such that those new/renewing members commence their terms in July.
Springtime means not only our annual Spring Seminar at Yosemite and another series of CVMB/MDC meetings, but also the ramp-up for the Pacific Veterinary Conference (PacVet), which usually takes place—as it does this year—in June. Technically, all of this work begins at least a year in advance,
with contracting the venue, reaching out to sponsors, and lining up an all-star list of speakers...it’s a lot! While PacVet is shotgunned by our conferences/events department, its production is an all-hands affair that sees every CVMA employee involved both here at the home office and then on-site at the event location itself. Behind-the-scenes work includes everything from opening boxes to stuffing goody bags to preparing the registration desk to staffing the speaker-ready room, among many other tasks you will never see.
Shortly after PacVet comes more CVMB/MDC meetings, the AVMA’s annual conference, and the beginning of the CVMA's “audit season,” where we close our books on one fiscal year and begin another (this may change shortly, as we will be changing our fiscal year in the near future to more closely mirror the calendar year). Concurrently, we begin the new Board/House year, welcoming new members of the Board of Governors and House of Delegates while bidding farewell to those who have termed off. Audit season closes just in time for us to launch into our Fall Seminar, which we host annually in October at locations throughout the state...right around the end of legislative season (when the Governor signs bills into law) and right before the last series of CVMB/MDC meetings!
While meetings of our various committees and task forces (we have over a dozen) take place over the course of the year, the period from mid-October to mid-December is particularly busy with those meetings, with several committees traditionally gathering to undertake various items of business. Typically, my own last official meeting of the year is either the final quarterly meeting of Veterinary Insurance Services Company’s (VISC) Board of Directors (on which the CVMA Executive Director sits), or the meeting(s) of the CVMA and VISC’s Investment Committees, typically held in early-to-mid December.
Unmentioned above is everything that happens in our communications and membership departments, which involve daily efforts relative to our member-facing publications, member recruitment and retention, member benefits, and simply just maintaining and updating member information in our association database.
In short, there is a lot that happens within and beyond the four walls of the CVMA’s home office at all times of year—and all accomplished by a small staff of 15 employees. It’s all part of the circle of association life!
Dan Baxter Executive Director
MEETINGS
MARCH 22, 2025
CVMA Board of Governors Meeting
APRIL 15–17, 2025
California Veterinary Medical Board Meeting
JUNE 4, 2025
VISC Board Meeting
JUNE 26, 2025
CVMA Board of Governors Meeting in Long Beach
JUNE 27, 2025
CVMA Joint Board of Governors/House of Delegates Meeting in Long Beach
JULY 15–17, 2025
California Veterinary Medical Board Meeting
News Now & CVMA
Deadline for Student Scholarship Applications Is April 15
The application deadline for the California Veterinary Medical Foundation/Veterinary Insurance Services Company (CVMF/VISC) and CVMF Ron Faoro, DVM, Student Scholarship Awards is April 15. Veterinary students in good standing at UC Davis and WesternU are eligible and encouraged to apply. For details and to submit your application, visit cvmf.net. Completed applications should be emailed to staff@cvmf.net.
Attention, All CVMA Member Relief Veterinarians!
The CVMA provides the Relief Veterinarian Directory as a member benefit to connect veterinarians seeking relief support with locum tenens professionals. If you’re a CVMA member and a relief veterinarian, we’d love to include your information in our updated database. To join the directory, contact Jennifer Smith at jsmith@cvma.net or call 800.655.2862.
RVTs with VTS Certification: Write About Your Experience!
The CVMA is looking for registered veterinary technicians who have earned VTS certifications to contribute short (500-600 word) articles about their experience for publication in California Veterinarian! We'd like to know about your career journey, what challenges you faced, the benefits of certification, your daily life as a specialty technician, and more. Contributors must practice in California and be a CVMA member.
Interested in contributing? Please reach out to Taryn DeOilers, the CVMA's Director of Communications, at tdeoilers@cvma.net for more information. All material is published at our discretion, and we reserve the right to edit all submissions for clarity and length with the author’s consent.
I AM THE
Members are the heart of the CVMA
Guntej Singh Grewal, DVM
c Associate Veterinarian
c Khalsa College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Amritsar
c Small Animal Emergency Medicine
In my free time, I like to travel to new places and explore the national parks, go paddleboarding, and spend time at the beach and watch the waves as they hit the shore.
The best advice I ever received was if something goes wrong, always remember it's not the end of the world.
My favorite place I have ever lived or visited is Carmel-by-the-Sea.
An area of veterinary medicine that I would like to explore is cardiology.
If I could have dinner with any famous person in history, it would be Leonardo da Vinci.
If I won the lottery, I would retire my parents and travel the world.
If I weren’t in the veterinary profession, I would be a plastic surgeon.
My life philosophy is sometimes it's better to take the paths less traveled, and it's never too late.
I am a CVMA member because I like to be aware of new laws and legislation that might affect veterinary medicine and actively participate in meetings that support or oppose those laws.
2024/2025 CVMA Membership Survey Results—Part 1
Since 2016, the CVMA has conducted extensive economic surveys every three years to assess the economic conditions and job satisfaction of California veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians. These surveys covered topics like job sentiment, work-life balance, professional growth opportunities, ownership interest, compensation, student debt, industry outlook, and mental health among both members and non-members.
This year, to address survey fatigue, the CVMA conducted a condensed economic survey and combined it with a membership survey. The new survey focused on salary data, feedback on member benefits and wellness programs, and future CE requests. Sent to all member veterinarians, RVTs, and practice staff via email in November of 2024, the survey yielded valuable insights that will guide future CVMA programs and offerings.
This is part one of the survey results, focusing on member profiles and salary data. Part two will be published in the May/June 2025 issue of California Veterinarian
Salary and Profile Information
The survey revealed that 61% of veterinarians and 89% of RVTs and staff identified as female, with smaller proportions identifying as male (37% and 6%, respectively) or other (2% and 1%). Most veterinarian respondents were aged 50 or older, including some retirees, while the majority of RVTs and staff were between 40 and 64 years old. The predominant practice type was small animal, reported by 68% of veterinarians and 66% of RVTs and staff, with smaller representations in mixed animal, equine, and other categories like shelter, wildlife, zoo, exotics, and academia. Geographically, respondents were primarily based in San Francisco and the Bay Area, followed by Sacramento/North and Los Angeles/Southern California.
Compared to the 2019 and 2022 surveys, this year saw an increase in veterinarian practice owner representation and a decrease in associates. Notably, while 48% of veterinarians in 2022 had worked 0–5 years in their current role, the majority this year have worked 20+ years. Among RVTs and staff, 86% were RVTs, 18% practice owners, 6% CVMA CVAs and VAs, and 1% other staff. Like veterinarians, most RVTs and staff respondents this year reported 20+ years in their current role, compared to 0–5 years for the majority in 2022.
Annual Salaries
The results of the membership salary surveys from 2019, 2022, and 2024 reveal notable trends in veterinary compensation. From 2019 to 2022, there was a significant decrease in the percentage of veterinarians earning less than $120k, accompanied by a marked increase in those earning $161k or more, suggesting salary growth within the profession. The salary ranges were adjusted in the 2024 survey to account for rising costs of living, further emphasizing upward trends in income distribution. While 20% of respondents still reported earnings of less than 100k in 2024, a growing percentage—58%— earned over $141k, with 31% surpassing $200k. These results highlight a positive trajectory in veterinary salaries.
The salary surveys for RVTs and practice staff from 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2024 reveal evolving compensation trends. From 2016 to 2022, there was a gradual decline in the percentage of respondents earning less than 20k and $21-40k, while the proportion of those earning $61-80k and $80k+ steadily increased. By 2022, 26% of respondents reported salaries above $61k, a significant increase from just 9% in 2016. The 2024 survey, despite omitting the $41-60k range, further underscores this upward trend. Notably, 60% of respondents earned $61k or more, with 29% reporting salaries above $80k. These findings indicate a positive shift in compensation levels over time, though the omitted range and non-responses in 2024 introduce some uncertainty regarding mid-range salaries. Overall, the data suggests growing recognition of the value of RVTs and practice staff in the veterinary profession.
Change in Practice Activity Compared to Last Year
When asked about their practice's activity compared to the previous year, 45-51% of veterinarians, RVTs, and practice staff reported it remained the same, 30% noted it was less busy, and 20-24% observed an increase in business.
Job Satisfaction
Annual Salary - DVMs
Annual Salary - RVTs & Practice Staff
The 2024 job satisfaction survey indicates that 83% of veterinarians are "satisfied" or "very satisfied," with 7% "dissatisfied" or "very dissatisfied," and 10% feeling "neutral," marking a rise in ambivalence from previous years. In 2022, 81% were satisfied, 18% dissatisfied, 2% neutral; in 2019, 86% were satisfied, 14% dissatisfied, and 1% neutral; and in 2016, 83% were satisfied, 16% dissatisfied, and 1% neutral. This trend suggests consistently high satisfaction among
*$41k-$60k inadvertently omitted from the 2024 survey.
veterinarians, though increasing neutrality may reflect evolving perspectives within the profession.
For RVTs, 2024 shows 75% satisfaction, 13% dissatisfaction, and a notable 13% neutrality, up from prior years. In 2022, 79% were satisfied, 20% dissatisfied, 1% neutral; in 2019, 84% were satisfied, 14%
dissatisfied, 1% neutral; and in 2016, 84% were satisfied, 15% dissatisfied, and 2% neutral. While overall satisfaction remains high, the rise in neutral responses and fluctuations in dissatisfaction indicate shifting views and potential challenges within the RVT profession over time.
2025 California Legislative Session Hitting the Veterinary Profession Harder Than Ever
This year, California’s legislative leaders reduced the number of bills that members of the state Assembly and Senate could introduce during each two-year session, from 50 to 35 in the Assembly and from 40 to 35 in the Senate, according to rules adopted by each chamber at the kickoff of the new session. Following the 2025 bill introduction deadline of February 21, this reduction mandate brought the California Legislature’s count for new bills to 2,350, consisting of approximately 1,500 in the Assembly and 850 in the Senate. A significant number of bills were introduced as “spot” bills—or placeholder measures—which means that the details of their intent have yet to be announced. Therefore, new legislation that could impact the veterinary profession may still emerge through one or more of these “spot” bills.
CVMA’s lobbyist Christina DiCaro has reviewed every 2025 bill to determine which should move forward to the CVMA legislative team. That team, which includes CVMA lobbyists, key staff, the Executive Committee, and Legislative Committee co-chairs Dr. Keith Rode and Dr. Brent Wooden, closely monitors all bills and represents the CVMA in meetings with legislative staff and bill sponsors. On February 28, the legislative team discussed 30 such bills to assess their impact on veterinary medicine, animal health and welfare, and employer/employee relations. Ultimately, the legislative team referred nearly all of those bills for review by the CVMA Legislative Committee. That committee will discuss each bill at its March 13 meeting and recommend positions to the CVMA Board of Governors. The Board will then vote on official CVMA positions at its March 22 meeting.
A selection of highly impactful bills was identified by the CVMA’s lobbyist early on in the legislative process and were expedited for early positions by the CVMA Board of Governors.
A summary of those bills at the time of this writing is included below. The CVMA expects others to be identified as the legislative process progresses.
This bill seeks to permit chiropractors who have taken a certification course to expand their practices to include animals by becoming a “animal chiropractic practitioner.” The bill will circumvent veterinarian involvement in animal chiropractic cases by allowing direct access to chiropractors by consumers, despite chiropractors having no formal training on animals as part of their standardized licensing curriculum. The CVMA is opposed to any attempts by human health care practitioners to expand their practice acts to include animals. There are multiple examples across animal species in which a complex medical condition, often insidious in its onset, can mimic a chiropractic condition. Chiropractors have no training to identify these conditions, which can result in a delay in proper treatment, prolonged animal suffering, and unnecessary cost to consumers who may instinctively seek a chiropractor for a divergent condition in their pet.
If passed, this bill will take the unprecedented step of permitting human health care practitioners to practice veterinary medicine. Scope of practice expansion attempts by human health care practitioners remains the highest opposition priority of the CVMA. In the case of chiropractors, the CVMA believes that California’s existing law, which has been in effect for over 30 years and requires a chiropractor to work on animals under the direct supervision of a veterinarian, is the best model for animal and consumer protection.
AB 1458 (Wallis) Animal physical therapy.
CVMA Position: OPPOSE
While largely in “spot bill” format at the time of the writing of this article, this bill will likely mimic several previous legislative attempts for physical therapists to expand their scope of practice to include animals, similar to the chiropractic scope creep attempt referenced above. This bill is an attempt to override current state law by proposing that direct veterinarian supervision be removed in practices run by physical therapists and avoiding consumer protection-related minimum standards required of veterinary practices, including the presence of a licensee manager.
The CVMA’s strong opposition on this bill is rooted in several areas. Among them include:
• Physical therapists have no training on animals as part of their formal and standardized licensing curriculum. If such a precedent were to be set by allowing them to practice veterinary medicine on animals, would veterinarians then be justified to practice on humans?
• Physical therapists want to open practices that provide services to all animals, despite their certification courses being focused on dogs, self-guided, and relatively short.
• Physical therapists are not formally trained in, among other things:
◦ The fundamental differences between quadruped animals and biped, upright humans;
◦ The signs of pain in animal species;
◦ Animal behavior as it relates to all species;
◦ Animal locomotion;
◦ Recognizing infectious diseases;
◦ First aid treatment; and
◦ Emergency, life-saving treatment.
AB 867 (Lee) Veterinary medicine: animal declawing. CVMA Position: OPPOSE
This bill marks the sixth attempt to ban the procedure of cat declawing in the California state legislature. The CVMA has traditionally been opposed to any measure that dictates how veterinarians practice veterinary medicine. The CVMA believes that decisions to perform veterinary medical procedures should be made by clients and their veterinarians, and in the case of declawing, only after all alternative possibilities have been explored. Moreover, the veterinary profession has adequately regulated itself relative to declawing procedures; in that regard, several major corporate conglomerates do not offer it as a service, it is not taught in veterinary schools, and the CVMA’s own policy strongly discourages it as an elective procedure. Since the veterinary profession has moved away from these procedures through its own clinical evolution, , the CVMA believes that banning them altogether under the threat of criminal sanctions is an ill-advised legislative step.
AB 516 (Kalra) Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants: scope of practice.
This year, the CVMA has partnered with the San Francisco SPCA and San Diego Humane Society to co-sponsor legislation that clarifies the roles and permissible tasks of registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) and veterinary assistants (VAs) in both private practice and in animal shelters. Considerable confusion exists in the veterinary profession regarding what tasks RVTs and VAs are permitted to perform in practice, and the statutory clarifications in these bills clearly state that they are permitted to do anything not otherwise prohibited by law. Only veterinarians can diagnose, prognose, prescribe, and perform surgery; thus, these tasks are prohibited for RVTs and VAs. There are additional tasks that must be performed either by a veterinarian or an RVT, and are thus prohibited for VAs. RVTs and VAs in animal shelters are permitted by law to perform routine intake tasks pursuant to written or telephonic orders by a supervising veterinarian, and thus these tasks are permitted by statutory authority. These bills will help to clarify confusion surrounding those rules.
Furthermore, the law will expand what RVTs can do in animal shelters to permit them to administer vaccines to the public’s animals without a veterinarian on the premises, provided that established protocols, specified documentation, and public disclosures are observed.
SB 6 (Ashby) Controlled substances: xylazine.
CVMA Position: SUPPORT
Authored by Senator Angelique Ashby, this xylazine-directed bill is identical to last year’s SB 1502, also by Senator Ashby. SB 1502 did not make it through the legislative process last year due to some intense political debates towards the end of session. While the California controlled substance list differs from the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) list, the addition of xylazine to the state list can potentially impact the practice of veterinary medicine, particularly among equine and livestock veterinarians. As the legislation would exempt veterinary practitioners from its restrictions, the CVMA served as Senator Ashby’s support witness on SB 1502 last year and has offered to do so again on SB 6 during the 2025 session.
CVMA Sponsored Bill: Enacted January 1, 2025 Implementation: Seeking State Budget Funding
SB 1233 passed the Legislature on a unanimous bipartisan vote with no stakeholder opposition last year. It was signed by the Governor and enacted on January 1; however, the new program still needs state funding to get off the ground. The bill
will create high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) certification programs at both of California’s veterinary schools to prepare students to provide safe and efficient spay/neuter surgical services when they graduate. The CVMA is working with the Senate and Assembly Budget Committees to try to secure partial funding for the programs to launch this exciting program, but the CVMA and its supporter coalition face significant challenges given the current uncertainty regarding the state’s budget deficit.
AB 1502 California Veterinary Medical Board (CVMB) Sunset Review
Every four years, the state legislature requires a review of each of the regulatory boards under the state Department of Consumer Affairs. The review, conducted by a joint committee of both the Assembly and Senate Business and Professions committees, gives each board the opportunity to report on progress made on existing issues and to identify new issues confronting the board and the corresponding profession. This year, the CVMB is reporting on issues including illegal veterinary practice, RVT licensing requirements, continuing education requirements for veterinarians and RVTs, scope creep attempts by other professions, and more. The CVMA is commenting on several of the CVMB-identified issues as well as bringing forth legislative proposals that will (a) specify qualification criteria for CVMB subject matter expert witnesses, and (b) require that one of the CVMB’s veterinarian board members be a practicing equine and/or livestock practitioner.
AB 1503 California Board of Pharmacy Sunset Review
For several years, the CVMA has attempted to communicate with the California Board of Pharmacy (BOP) regarding the lack of availability of several important medications due to overly stringent BOP regulations and enforcement policies for drug compounding and compounding pharmacies. As a result of BOP actions, California now only has a few veterinary compounding pharmacies to provide medications for millions of animals. California is currently the only state in the country in which veterinarians do not have access to medications to treat patients; namely, several equine ophthalmic medications used to treat fungal keratitis, glaucoma, stromal abscesses, and other conditions are NOT AVAILABLE IN CALIFORNIA. The CVMA has tried multiple times to engage the BOP about this issue and others that are affecting the veterinary profession’s ability to provide care to patients. Unfortunately, we have not received responses from the BOP that demonstrate its intent to remedy the current issues. At this juncture, the CVMA intends to be vocal at the State Legislature to alert them to the issues and request that they intervene to find a solution.
2024 Legislative Calendar
January 6
Legislature reconvenes
January 10 Deadline for Governor to submit budget
February 21 Last day for bills to be introduced
June 6 Last day for bills to pass out of house of origin
June 15 Budget bill must be passed by midnight
July 18 Last day for policy committees to meet and hear bills
September 5 Last day to amend bills on the Floor (general session)
September 12 Last day for each house to pass bills
October 12 Last day for Governor to sign or veto legislation
CVMA Legislative Action Center
For specific information on bills or to track CVMA-monitored bills through the legislative process, visit the CVMA’s online Legislative Action Center in the Advocacy section of cvma.net.
FROM OUR MEMBERS: Helping Kenya End Rabies Transmission from Dogs to Humans
By Deborah Aparicio, DVM
In 2007, the United States successfully eliminated canine rabies transmission. Globally, however, dogs remain the principal source of human rabies infections, killing about 60,000 people annually. About 95% of human cases of rabies are transmitted by domestic dogs. Controlling dog rabies transmission through periodic mass vaccination reduces human exposure. The World Health Organization, along with collaborating agencies, has set the goal to eliminate dog rabies transmission by the year 2030. The recommendation is to vaccinate no less than 70% of the dog population against rabies to control and potentially eliminate human rabies fatalities due to dog bites.
Mexico reached this goal in 2019 after 29 years of massive dog rabies vaccination efforts despite having an estimated 24 million dogs living in the street. There are still many other countries working towards achieving the same goal,
including those in Southeast Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Africa.
To help eliminate human rabies causalities, I founded a non-profit organization named Wildlife Damage Veterinary Management (Wild DVM). I have traveled to a variety of countries in Africa—including Botswana, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—to manage wildlife damage and protect all species and human welfare, and it is the Maasai Mara region in Kenya I keep going back to. Kenya is one of the countries most in need of eliminating rabies transmission through dog bites, and the country has committed to the challenge of achieving this goal by 2030. Kenya started a massive vaccination campaign in 2015, but lack of resources and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic stopped the project short. In 2023, Kenya began new vaccination efforts with the help of international organizations.
Through Wild DVM, I chose to work in the remote areas of Kenya's Maasai Mara.
This area has isolated villages that rely on dogs to guard the population’s cattle from predators. The Maasai people are, for the most part, considered nomads, as they move around in search of grass. They traditionally measure their worth by the number of cows they own. Unfortunately, with population growth, the competition for grass has become a big issue, especially
during droughts. Wildlife conservation areas are overpopulated with grazing herds, creating conflict between people, cattle, and wildlife.
In Kenya, the hunt and consumption of wildlife is prohibited. You cannot kill or harm wildlife to protect your cattle. There is a government compensation program for heads lost due to predators. Village guard dogs are needed to alert their owners of predatory activity, mainly lions approaching the villages at night. There are conservation organizations and projects to mitigate the conflict between wildlife and people. There is a large population of village guard dogs that are exposed to wildlife. These dogs have no medical care and have not been vaccinated nor dewormed, as local resources are scarce. Children are the most at risk when the village is exposed to a rabid dog, as they interact closely with their dogs. Sharing living areas with wildlife is dangerous enough; losing someone to rabies is unthinkable. Local public education and veterinary care is needed to address this matter, and this is where we can help.
In 2023, I started my first rabies vaccine campaign in the Maasai Mara. The Mara is divided into 24 conservancies. The Mara North Conservancy already has the largest ongoing vaccination project. My plan is to rotate through all other conservancies and vaccinate as many dogs, cats, and donkeys as I can with the help of an AmericanKenyan veterinary team. Our team is composed of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and other volunteers who assist with writing rabies certificates and documenting the events. The vaccines and dewormers are donated. We provide the rest of the medical supplies and assume the cost of local transportation.
During our recent vaccination campaign, we walked 48 miles, reaching areas inaccessible by car. Catching a village guard dog can be challenging and a risk we are willing to take. We accomplish our task with caution, and the team is required to take the human preventive rabies
vaccinations. The Kenyan part of our team helps with the interpretation of the Maasai dialect and the geography of the areas we need to reach. We all work together and form a great team.
We sometimes must carry our lunch meals to the furthest areas from our base camp. The work is rewarding and humbling, as we have been invited into some village homes to share Kenyan tea in appreciation of our efforts.
We are already planning our next vaccination campaign. It starts with finding a place to stay within the conservancy we plan to vaccinate. The roads are unpaved and hard to travel, so finding central accommodations is not easy. Map distances are not helpful if you don't know the road conditions. A shorter distance may take longer than a farther better-suited route. Due to tourism, nice weather means higher expenses and less availability for lodging, so careful planning is important.
"As veterinarians, there is a lot we can do to help other countries in need."
You can donate to Wild DVM by visiting wilddvm.com or scanning the QR code.
Dr. Deborah Aparicio is the owner of Clayton Valley Pet Hospital in Concord, California. She has over 30 years of experience working with small animals, birds, and exotics and is trained in animal acupuncture, animal behavior, and wildlife conservation.
CVMA Discusses Member Survey Results, 2025 Legislation at Annual Veterinary Leadership Forum
The CVMA’s Board of Governors and House of Delegates held their annual joint Leadership Forum on February 1 in Sacramento. In attendance were approximately 50 CVMA leaders, consisting of veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians (RVTs), and students, who represent both the CVMA Board and House.
The meeting commenced with an overview of the CVMA’s 2024/2025 membership survey results and a discussion of member benefits by Kristen Calderon, the CVMA’s Director of Member Services. Attendees broke out into discussion groups to reflect on the efficacy of current member benefits, as well as pinpoint gaps in the CVMA’s member benefits repertoire, especially resources for RVTs.
The Leadership Forum continued with a report by CVMA Director of Regulatory Affairs Dr. Grant Miller on the political landscape the CVMA is expecting this year. Major topics included the California Veterinary Medical Board (CVMB) and California State Board of Pharmacy Sunset Reviews and anticipated 2025 legislation, including practice expansion bills from human health care practitioners and RVTs, as well as additional bills directed at pet crematoriums, Xylazine scheduling, and RVT job task clarifications. Dr. Miller also gave a status update on funding for SB 1233, the CVMA-sponsored bill passed last year that will establish high-quantity, high-volume spay/neuter programs at California’s two veterinary schools. More information on this year’s legislation can be found in the Legislative Update on page 10.
Additionally, dean and student representatives from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and Western University College of Veterinary Medicine gave reports concerning ongoing activities at their respective schools. The Leadership Forum wrapped up with reports by CVMA’s President Dr. Jennifer Hawkins, Executive Director Dan Baxter, Treasurer Dr. Ron Kelpe, and House of Delegates Chair Dr. Georgina Marquez.
The CVMA thanks and appreciates all who participated in the Leadership Forum!
Kristen Calderon gives an overview of the results of the CVMA's 2024/2025 member survey.
Dr. Grant Miller speaks to the Leadership Forum attendees about 2025 legislation.
CVMA Board and House members break into discussion groups to brainstorm possible member benefits.
Thank You, CVMA PAC Contributors!
The CVMA sincerely appreciates our members who contributed to and supported the CVMA Political Action Committee (CVMA PAC) throughout 2024. With these funds, the CVMA has been able to further its mission of being the most prominent voice on all issues related to the veterinary profession and animal health in California.
We are expecting a difficult legislative season this year, and we need your help! Please consider giving to the PAC to help protect your profession.
What is the CVMA PAC?
The CVMA represents the voice of the veterinary profession at the Capitol. With the CVMA PAC, we can foster strong relationships with state government members and candidates, allowing us to become their goto resource on issues pertaining to the veterinary profession and animal welfare. The CVMA PAC is independent of all political parties, and the PAC approves contributions regardless of a candidate’s or legislator’s party affiliation.
How are CVMA PAC funds used?
PAC contributors provide the CVMA the necessary funds to donate to candidates and legislators who advocate for the veterinary profession. Those funds are also used to sponsor CVMA member veterinarians’ and other CVMA representatives’ attendance at fundraisers and similar events. These personal interactions afford us vital opportunities to connect with candidates and those involved in leadership and committees who make decisions that directly affect you, your profession, and your patients.
Below is a list of those who made donations to the
from July to December 2024.
President Level ($2,500 and above)
Dr. Dayna Wiedenkeller
Dr. Diane Craig
Dr. Jodi Woods
Governor Level ($1,000–$2,499)
Dr. Ramzi Eid
Dr. Brent Wooden
Senator Level ($500–$999)
Dr. Elisabeth Richardson
Dr. Keith Rode
Dr. Stephanie Sherman
Dr. Chris Wong
Dr. Norman Zachery
Assembly Level ($150–$499)
Dr. Jessica Laemmle
Dr. Christina Bradbury
Dr. Patrick Connolly
Dr. Miguel Constantino Gomez
Dr. Julie Forbes
Dr. Sean Goodell
Dr. Danielle Hettler
Dr. David Innes
Dr. Grace Matsuura
Dr. David McCrystle
Dr. Julie Ohanesian
Dr. Dirk Yelinek
Capitol Level ($95–$149)
Dr. Benjamin Otten
Dr. Norman Switzer
Dr. Joanne Bak
Dr. Laura Becker
Dr. Deanna Chung
Dr. Julie Dechant
Dr. Hannah Goorsky
Dr. Kyle Mathis
Dr. Kevin May
Dr. Nicola Mohr
Dr. Heather Moore
Dr. William O'Leary
Dr. Evelyn Sagastume
Dr. Woutrina Smith
Dr. Tonya Tidwell
Dr. Emmanuel Velo
You can join your colleagues in donating to the CVMA PAC! The stronger the CVMA PAC fund, the more opportunities we will have to support state legislators who prioritize the veterinary profession.
UNITY
A Lens into Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Veterinary Profession
Bridging Worlds: blendVET's Innovative Approach to Diversifying Veterinary Medicine Unites Classrooms, Clinics, Educators, and Volunteers
By Niccole Bruno, DVM, Founder and CEO, blendVET®, 2025 Pacific Veterinary Conference Speaker
As a practicing veterinarian in New York and Houston, two of the most diverse cities in the United States, I saw firsthand the disparities in veterinary patient care due to language barriers and cultural differences. Often, I was the only doctor—and the only person of color— in the practice. This disconnect with clients who were people of color directly changed patient care and the veterinaryclient-patient relationship.
The veterinary profession has long been one of the least ethnically diversified medical professions in the United States. According to the 2023 U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, only 7.9% of employed veterinarians are Hispanic/ Latinx, 5.9% are Asian, and 1.3% are Black, while 90% are white.1 This lack of diversity affects not only the profession but also pet owners, as research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute revealed that 53% of pet owners want to see themselves reflected in their veterinary teams.2
In the course of my practice experience, it became clear to me that we need to diversify the next generation of veterinary professionals, and to do so, we
need to show kids a path to becoming veterinarians and provide them with the support and resources to get there. This realization led me to create blendVET® and our Youth Pathways Program, "Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine," in 2022, designed to provide exposure and representation for students in underserved communities.
The Power of Early Exposure Research shows that 41% of career aspirations that adults had made prior to being 12 years of age matched their current occupations, which is prudent to pipeline initiatives in this age group and younger.3 Our Youth Pathways Program introduces middle and high school students to diverse opportunities in the veterinary profession. We recognize that creating meaningful change starts with early intervention and purposeful action. By bringing veterinary career education directly to students in underserved communities, we're not just raising awareness—we're opening doors and igniting passions.
Through immersive experiences, students explore various roles and specializations, from surgery and emergency medicine to clinical pathology and shelter medicine. This interactive approach allows them to envision themselves in these roles,
breaking down barriers of representation that often deter underrepresented youth from pursuing veterinary careers. We meet students where they are, within their own schools and communities, removing logistical hurdles that might otherwise prevent or impede exposure to veterinary medicine. This strategy creates a familiar and comfortable environment where students can freely explore, learn, and discover the vast possibilities within the field.
Our program's success is greatly enhanced by the diverse representation within our faculty and the invaluable support from volunteers across the veterinary community. These professionals share not only their ability but also their personal journeys, proving to students that a career in veterinary medicine is attainable regardless of their background.
Empowering Dreams, Transforming Lives
The power of our Youth Pathway events lies not just in what we teach, but in the spark we ignite. As veterinary professionals, we often get caught up in the day-to-day challenges of our work. But when we step into these events, something remarkable happens. We reconnect with our passion, our purpose—our "why."
Imagine the joy of seeing a young student's eyes light up as they hold a stethoscope for the first time, or the pride in a parent's face as they watch their child confidently practice suture techniques using model kits. These firsthand experiences remind us why we chose this profession and allow us to pour that enthusiasm into the next generation.
The impact ripples through entire communities, touching students, parents, and educators alike. We're not just sharing knowledge; we're nurturing dreams and opening doors that many thought were closed due to their race, ethnicity, or beliefs.
Transforming the Future of Veterinary Medicine
By diversifying the pipeline of future veterinarians, we're working to create a profession that better reflects the communities it serves. A more diverse veterinary workforce brings numerous benefits, including improved communication with a diverse client base, enhanced cultural competence in animal care, increased innovation through diverse perspectives, and better representation for underserved communities, ultimately providing better patient outcomes.
Hence, our commitment extends beyond the students to include their support systems. We engage parents and educators, providing resources and guidance to nurture these budding interests long after our events conclude. This comprehensive approach ensures that the seeds we plant have the best chance to grow and flourish, creating a sustainable pipeline of diverse talent for the veterinary profession.
While blendVET is at the forefront of this initiative, we recognize that creating lasting change requires collaboration across the veterinary community. We partner with local veterinary practices, academic institutions, and industry organizations to provide comprehensive education and resources for aspiring veterinarians. Last year, we were proud
to reach 500 middle and high school students across seven states, thanks to the generous support of our partners.
The Road Ahead
As we continue to expand our Youth Pathways Program, we are committed to removing barriers for students and their families and creating sustainability in academic curricula. Over the next two years, we're excited to be partnering with North American Veterinary Community and others to develop 12 programs across the U.S., serving over 1,000 students.
The journey to diversify veterinary medicine is ongoing, but through programs like ours, we're making significant strides. By investing in the next generation of veterinary professionals, we're not just changing individual lives—we're shaping the future of animal health care.
To my fellow veterinary professionals: you have the power to be part of this transformation. Your expertise, your stories, and your presence can make all the difference. Consider volunteering at a blendVET Pathways event, offering shadowing opportunities at your clinic, or mentoring an aspiring veterinary professional. Every small act can be the catalyst that sets a young person on the path to a fulfilling career in veterinary medicine.
We hope that you'll consider partnering with us as an advocate, volunteer, educator, or sponsor. Together, we can create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive veterinary profession—one student at a time. Learn more at www.blend.vet.
The topic of Dr. Niccole Bruno’s presentations at the 2025 Pacific Veterinary Conference will be advancing DEIB in veterinary medicine. Attend her sessions in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging track in person in Long Beach on June 29, 2025.
References
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employed persons by detailed occupation, sex, race, and Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. U.S. Department of Labor. January 26, 2024. bls.gov/cps/cpsaat11.htm
2. Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI). Global research confirms the strong bond between people and pets. dvm360. January 19, 2022. habri.org/DEI
3. Greenhill LG, Davis K, Lowrie P, Amass S. Navigating Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine. Purdue University. 2020.
Dr. Niccole Bruno is the CEO and Founder of blendVET™, a groundbreaking certification program focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) for veterinary professionals. As an Afro-Latina, Dr. Bruno faced numerous challenges in her journey into veterinary medicine, graduating from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. Her career was marked by encounters with racism, misogyny, and stereotypes, which led to a period of disengagement from the profession she once loved. However, her passion was reignited when she became the Medical Director for a veterinary hospital in Long Island, New York. Over the next eight years, she dedicated herself to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusiveness in New York and Houston hospitals.
Volunteer
at our
upcoming youth career event & help shape the future of vet med!
Support students as they participate in an immersive, handson event that offers a glimpse into the diverse pathways and roles in veterinary medicine.
Help us at registration, be a student or chaperone liaison, support the faculty and the immersive work stations, or help set up or break down.
sign-up here! proudly organized by
Long Beach Convention Center
June 27-30, 2025
Four Days • 200+ Sessions • In-Person and Virtual Attendance
Two-Day Vet Expo • Networking Opportunities
Hands-on Labs and Symposia
Presented by the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
Topics by Track
PacVet 2025 Commences with a Keynote for the Times!
Keynote Presentation
Gary Weitzman, DVM, MPH, CAWA
In-Person and Virtual Tracks
Bridging the Gap: Expanding Access to Care and High-Volume Spay/Neuter
Much of the country is facing a persistent pet overpopulation crisis, with shelters overwhelmed by stray and surrendered animals—and by animals, we mean dogs. While spay/neuter programs have significantly reduced euthanasia rates over the years, limited access to veterinary care and sterilization remains a major obstacle. Many pet owners—especially in underserved communities—struggle to afford or access veterinary care, leading to unplanned litters, overcrowded shelters, disrupted families, and increased euthanasia.
Expanding high-volume spay/neuter services and advancing non-surgical sterilization methods are critical to tackling this challenge. This keynote presentation will explore barriers to veterinary care, the urgent need for high volume spay/neuter programs, and innovative, non-surgical sterilization solutions on the horizon that have the potential to revolutionize our approach to animal population management and welfare. Finally, participants will be shown ways they can help solve the problem facing so many shelters and practices in their states.
In-Person and Virtual Tracks (Scheduled speakers as of February 26, 2025)
Conference Welcome by the 2024/2025 CVMA
President Dr. Jennifer Hawkins, Keynote Presentation by Dr. Gary Weitzman, CVMA Awards Recognition
Ceremony, and Induction of the 2025–2026 CVMA Board of Governors
Small Animal Medicine
Dermatology
Carine Laporte, DVM, DACVD
Dentistry
Nadine Fiani, BVSc, DAVDC, FFOMFS, ZWD
Emergency and Critical Care
Terence Krentz, DVM, DACVECC
Treatment of Rattlesnake Envenomation
Ken Pawlowski, DVM
Cardiology
Allison Gagnon, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Internal Medicine
Meredith Miller, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM)
Medical Oncology
Sara Allstadt, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)
Additional speakers are being added. For the most up-to-date list of speakers, sessions, and schedule, visit the CE Program tab at PacVet.net. Speakers are subject to change.
Technician
Dentistry
Mary Berg, BS, LATG, RVT, VTS (Dentistry)
Anesthesia and Pain
Kristen Cooley BA, CVT, VTS (Anesthesia/Analgesia), VCC
Medicine and Leadership
Walter L. Brown, Jr., RVTg VTS (ECC)
Emergency and Critical Care
Ken Yagi, MS, RVT, VTS (ECC), (SAIM)
• Up to 28.5 CEUs across three live and interactive virtual tracks
• Live interaction with speakers during Q&A
• Access to speaker lecture notes
• Raffle prizes
• Connection via the PacVet mobile app to other attendees
• Virtual, free symposia courtesy of Veterinary Insurance Services Company
Virtual attendees have access to:
In-Person-Only Tracks (Scheduled speakers as of February 26, 2025)
Avian/Exotics
Avian and Small Mammals
Laila Proenca, MV, MSc, PhD, DVM, DACZM
Reptiles and Amphibians
Thomas Boyer, DVM, DABVP (Reptiles and Amphibian Practice)
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Pathway Development and DEIB Metrics in Veterinary Medicine
Niccole Bruno, DVM
Neurodiversity in Your Veterinary Team
Rob Best, CVPM, CFN
Three-Part DEIB Workshop: Advancing DEIB and Emotional Intelligence in Veterinary Medicine: A Conversation with Experts
Antimicrobial Resistance and Other One Health Hot Topics
Neil Vezeau, DVM
Rabies, Avian Influenza, and County Programs
Julie Breher, DVM, MPVM and Emily Trumbull, DVM
Practice Management
Team Wellness for Veterinary Practices
Rob Best, CVPM, CFN
Leadership in the Veterinary Practice
Kelly Cooper, DVM
Social Media Marketing for Veterinary Practices
Rhonda Bell, CVPM, PCM, CDMP
Practice Owner
Practice Growth
Michele Drake, DVM, CVA Sponsored by GeniusVets
Strengthening Client Relationships
David George Hall
Sponsored by GeniusVets
Managing Finances
John Chalk Jr., CPA, JD, CFP®, ChSNC Sponsored by GeniusVets
Top HR Issues
Christopher Onstott
Shelter Medicine
Animal Transportation and Relocation
Brian DiGangi, DVM, MS, DABVP
Shelter Operations
Cynthia Delany, DVM, KPA-CTP, FFCP and Bruce Wagman
Bunny Housing and Ringworm in a Shelter Environment
Rebecca Stuntebeck, DVM, ABVP
Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD)
Chumkee Aziz, DVM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice)
Two-Part Panel Discussion with Shelter Medicine Experts
Chumkee Aziz, DVM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice), Cynthia Delany, DVM, KPA-CTP, FFCP, Brian DiGangi, DVM, MS, DABVP, and Bruce Wagman
Small Animal Surgery
Soft Tissue Surgery
Raymond Kudej, DVM, PhD, DACVS
Orthopedic Surgery
Brian Petrovsky, DVM, DACVS-SA
Dentistry – Oral Surgery
Janny Evenhuis, DVM, DAVDC
USDA’s NVAP Accreditation
APHIS-Approved Supplemental Training (AAST)
Wellness
Please join us for a screening of The Dog, a poignant short film that sheds light on the silent struggles and mental health challenges faced by veterinarians. The screening will be followed by an expert panel discussion with veterinarians and technicians from IndeVets and more. Sponsored by IndeVets
Additional speakers are being added. For the most up-to-date list of speakers, sessions, and schedule, visit the CE Program tab at PacVet.net. Speakers are subject to change.
In-person attendees have access to:
• Up to 28.5 CEUs across all PacVet tracks
• Enjoyment of all that Long Beach has to offer
• Ability to purchase additional labs and workshops
• Access to free symposia
• Admission into the two-day Vet Expo
• Continental breakfast all four days
• Complimentary lunches on Saturday and Sunday
• Complimentary refreshment breaks
• Ability to purchase rabies titer testing
• Fun events, including the Vet Expo Mixer, the Technician Fair, the President’s Reception, and Alumni Receptions
• Access to speaker lecture notes
• Fun raffles prizes
• And much more!
Sponsored Lunch and Learns
Pre-register at PacVet.net!
PacVet offers four free lunch and learns to build your skills and knowledge! Light lunch will be provided. Space is limited.
SPONSORED BY
The Importance of Commercial Insurance for Veterinarians (Friday)
Discover why commercial insurance is essential for your practice and gain insights into the types of insurance necessary to protect your business.
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
The Five Stages of Business Value Maturity: How to Increase the Value and Minimize the Risks in Your Business (Friday)
Roughly 80% of your net worth is locked in your business. How are you going to make the most of it? We will discuss how you can identify that value as well as the wealth gap in your current goals and objectives.
Safeguarding Wealth: Lawsuit Prevention and Tax Strategies (Monday)
Legally Mine will show you how to stop the threat of lawsuits before they ever get started by protecting your assets in time tested and proven legal structures.
Selling Your Veterinary Practice 101 (Monday)
This is a must-attend session for veterinary practice owners who are 0-8 years away from a transition.
Sponsored labs to be announced in the future!
2025 Sponsors and Exhibitors
Thank you to the 2025 Premier Sponsors!
Vet Expo 2025 Registered Exhibitors as of February 26, 2025
Our exhibitors are key industry partners who help make PacVet 2025 possible by supporting the event and reducing attendee costs. Visit the Vet Expo to explore the latest products and services they offer for the veterinary profession!
A&E Medical Systems
Advanced Monitors Corporation
American Regent Animal Health
Antech
Avid Identification Systems Inc.
Banfield Pet Hospital
BCP Veterinary Pharmacy
Bionote
Boehringer Ingelheim
CAMP LA
Capstone Financial Group
Cardiac Vet, Inc.
CareCredit
Cat and Dog Modern
California Veterinary Medical Reserve
Corps
ClearRode Financial Group
Curo Pet Care
Doctor Multimedia
Dragon Veterinary
Edge Life Technologies, LLC
Elanco Animal Health
Epicur Pharma/Stokes Pharmacy
Esaote North America
GeniusVets
GerVetUSA
Golden Hour Veterinary Telemedicine
Golden Pet Rx
Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.
Honor Pet
HRtoGO
IDEXX
IDEXX Veterinary Software
IndeVets
Jorgensen Laboratories
KARL STORZ Veterinary Endoscopy
Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice
Medi Lazer
Medical Pet Shirts International
mediloupes
Merck Animal Health
Mg Biologics
MiDOG Animal Diagnostics
Mixlab Pharmacy
Mobile Animal CT
Multi Radiance Laser Therapy & WellVu
Thermal Imaging
Nationwide
Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc.
Omni Practice Group
Only Cremations and Aquamation for Pets
Pacific Professionals, Inc.
Panacea Financial
PayLo Pro
PetVet Care Centers
Preferred Employers Insurance
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets
Radiocat
ROSE MICRO SOLUTIONS
Schooley Mitchell
Schultz Technology
Scratch Financial
Sedecal USA Inc.
Solutions by Design
Soniquence
Talkatoo
Tempus Recruitment
Total Practice Solutions Group
Universal Imaging, inc.
VARISCO DESIGN BUILD GROUP
VDI Laboratory
VEG
Vetcor
Veterinary Insurance Services Company
(VISC)
VetMatrix
VetMed Solutions
VetriScience
Vets Choice Radiology
WEAVE
West Coast Pet Memorial
Zoetis
Zomedica
TOPAZ
Conference Venue, Hotel, and Registration
The Pacific Veterinary Conference will be held at the Long Beach Convention Center, perfectly located in the heart of downtown Long Beach.
Venue
Long Beach Convention Center 100 South Pine Avenue Long Beach, CA 90802
Host Hotel
The Hyatt Regency Long Beach 200 South Pine Avenue Long Beach, CA 90802
Online Reservations
Visit PacVet.net to make your hotel accommodations or scan the QR code.
Discounted* Room Rate
$255 per night plus tax until June 4, 2025.
*Discounted rate available until the deadline or until the block fills up —whichever comes first.
There’s still time to SAVE on PacVet: Register by March 31, 2025 to access early bird registration!
In an effort to be environmentally friendly, we are eliminating paper registrations.
Register online at PacVet.net.
If you need help with registration, call 800.655.2862 for staff assistance.
WHAT’S A BETTER SOLUTION FOR PET OWNERS:
Financing or Pet Insurance?
Imagine this scenario: Wendy rushes her beloved terrier, Ozzie, to your veterinary practice after he suddenly falls ill. You diagnose Ozzie with a condition requiring immediate surgery, and your treatment estimate is $3,000.
You watch Wendy's face fall as she hears this total. However, you know that she has two powerful tools at her disposal: she has a dedicated health and pet care credit card, and she’s a pet insurance policyholder. You remind her she can use them together to help Ozzie get the care he needs today!
Wendy uses flexible financing with her credit card to pay over time for the cost of Ozzie's emergency care. She then files a claim and gets reimbursed for eligible expenses when her claim is processed, allowing her to pay down her remaining financed balance.
Pet Insurance: A Safety Net for All Clients
The pet insurance industry arose as a solution to help pet owners be financially prepared for the costs of veterinary care. Pet insurance continues to grow in
popularity as more and more pet parents recognize the importance of being ready for expected—or unexpected—veterinary care.
Pet insurance provides clients with an added layer of financial security for a variety of care, including treatment of illnesses, routine checkups, vaccinations, and more—even emergency and specialty care. In exchange for a monthly or annual premium, pet insurance can deliver clients greater peace of mind for eligible pet care expenses.
But while pet insurance can help ease financial burdens through reimbursement, it’s also important to offer clients a solution that can help offset up-front costs of pet care.
Flexible Financing: A Client-and Practice-Friendly Solution
Paying for care at the time of service requires both adequate income and purposeful planning, one or both of which are not always at your clients’ disposal. Enabling clients to break up total costs, spread payment out into manageable monthly payments, and pay for any costs
not covered by insurance can increase the chance they accept your recommended care.
Clients equipped with a dedicated card with financing options may also be more likely to use it for routine or preventive services in a way that fits their budget— which can help your practice drive repeat visits and client loyalty.
How These Tools Work Better Together
Educating clients on the value of having both pet insurance and financing better prepares them for a lifetime of care, and provides them an option to afford both expected and unexpected necessary care which otherwise would be cost prohibitive. Companies like CareCredit and Pets Best are even integrating technologies to make the reimbursement process a more seamless experience—so you can focus on giving your clients a solution that works even better together.
The CareCredit healthcare credit card helps improve the payment experience for patients and clients, is accepted by 20,000 veterinary practices, and helps families manage veterinary costs. When your hospital accepts CareCredit, clients can make monthly payments (subject to credit approval). To enroll, call 877.384.1293 or visit carecredit.com and click “Get Started.” Complete the contact form and make sure to mention you are a CVMA member in the comments for free set-up.
Online Seminars
Role of Companion Animals in Public Health Outbreaks, Including H5N1
Jane Sykes, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
May 6, 2025 | 12:30–1:30 PM (1.5 CEUs)
May 8, 2025 | 5:30–6:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
In recent years, outbreaks of infectious diseases of public health significance have heightened public concern regarding the role of companion animals as sentinels and sources of human infection. The rise in importance of companion animals has also led to concerns about the impact of such outbreaks on the health of families, including their pets. Using situational examples, this talk will review what is known about the role of companion animals in emerging infectious diseases in California, with a focus on H5N1 avian influenza. Opportunities for improved disease recognition by veterinarians and owner education on prevention strategies will be discussed.
Access to Veterinary Care: Affordable or Excellent —Why Not Both?
Robin Post, RVT
July 22, 2025 | 12:30–1:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
July 24, 2025 | 5:30–6:45 PM (1.5 CEUs)
Affordable care should not equate to substandard care. This presentation will cover how to utilize registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) and veterinary assistants to expand access to care in a surgical setting. We will also explore how leveraging RVTs and veterinary assistants can enhance access to affordable surgical care without compromising quality. We will discuss how RVTs and veterinary assistants can work together to form creative anesthesia and pain management approaches, including making CRIs easy and how to learn and implement local blocks. We will also discuss case management when overnight care is not an option.
Register online by visiting the Continuing Education tab at cvma.net or by phone at 800.655.2862.
Who Can Administer Rabies Vaccines and Sign Rabies Vaccination Certificates in Veterinary Practices?
By Grant Miller, DVM, CVMA Director of Regulatory Affairs
California Health and Safety Code section 121690(b) requires dog owners to obtain a rabies vaccination for dogs between three and four months of age, and then in accordance with the vaccine label instructions thereafter, unless granted an exemption by local rabies health authorities. In addition, California Health and Safety Code section 121700 requires that rabies vaccinations be sold only to veterinarians. By limiting the sale of rabies vaccinations to veterinarians, the law ensures a method of tracking rabies prophylactic activities for public health purposes. Because of these two laws, many assume that only veterinarians may administer rabies vaccinations and sign rabies vaccination certificates. However, this is not the case. In California veterinary practices, registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) and veterinary assistants also may administer rabies vaccinations provided that certain requirements are met, and sign certificates as a designee of the veterinarian.
Administering the Rabies Vaccine
California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 16, Sections 2034, 2036, and 2036.5 outline the supervisory requirements of veterinarians as well as the tasks that can be performed by RVTs and veterinary assistants in a veterinary practice setting. Administering vaccinations falls within a broad class of work functions called “auxiliary health care tasks.” The law allows these defined tasks to be performed by paraprofessional staff provided that some degree of supervision is provided. In specific relation to administering rabies vaccinations, the California Veterinary Medical Board (CVMB) states the following:
“A California licensed veterinarian can administer the rabies vaccine or can delegate the administration of the rabies vaccine, to either a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) or veterinary assistant. A RVT and/or veterinary assistant can administer the rabies vaccination under either direct or indirect supervision of the California licensed veterinarian.”
Ultimate responsibility for the administration of rabies vaccinations falls to the supervising veterinarian. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is the final authority in rabies laws and regulations. According to the CDPH: “The veterinarian whose signature is on the rabies certificate retains legal responsibility that the person administering the vaccine is appropriately trained in vaccine storage, handling, administration, and management of adverse events. Rabies vaccines should be administered in accordance with the specifications of the vaccine product label or package insert.”
It is incumbent upon the veterinarian to first establish a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) for the purpose of administering the rabies vaccine prior to delegating the task to an RVT or veterinary assistant. Provided that the VCPR requirement is met, the task of vaccinating animals for rabies can be delegated to staff under supervision.
Rabies Vaccination Certificates
According to CCR Title 17, Section 2606.4, dog owners must have an official rabies vaccination certificate in order to obtain a rabies registration tag. Official rabies vaccination certificates must include:
a. the name, address, and telephone number of the dog's owner;
b. the description of the dog, including breed, color, age, and sex;
c. the date of immunization; d. the type of rabies vaccine administered; e. the name of the manufacturer; and f. the lot number of the vaccine used.
g. The rabies vaccine certificate must be signed with either the signature of the veterinarian who administers the vaccine, or with a signature authorized by the veterinarian. The vaccination certificate must include the veterinarian’s printed name, address, and telephone number.
A sample rabies vaccination certificate that meets specified requirements can be accessed at nasphv.org/Documents/ RabiesVacCert.pdf or by scanning the QR code.
For more information on rabies vaccination, visit cvma-watchdog.net and access “Rabies Information” under the Regulatory Compliance Resources section.
Handle with Care: Best Practices for Safe Animal Handling
Working in a veterinary practice often involves handling a variety of animals, each with their own temperament, size, and potential for unpredictable behavior. Implementing best practices for safe handling minimizes stress for the animals and reduces the risk of injury for veterinary staff. Below are a few essential strategies to follow.
Understand Animal Behavior
Assess Each Animal
• Take note of the animal’s history and temperament. Some animals may have a record of aggressive or fearful behavior, requiring extra caution.
Recognize Body Language
• Learn to interpret signs of fear, aggression, or discomfort in animals. For example, a growling dog with a stiff body and pinned-back ears signals that it feels threatened.
• Cats often display signs of stress through hissing, arched backs, or dilated pupils.
Approach Calmly
• Move slowly and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the animal.
• Speak in a calm, soothing manner; do not raise your voice.
Proper Restraint Techniques
Use Minimal Restraint
• Apply only as much restraint as necessary to safely perform procedures. Excessive restraint can increase an animal’s stress and resistance. For example, using gentle pressure with your hands or a towel can help calm a nervous cat.
Utilize Appropriate Tools
• Muzzles, slip leads, and cat bags can help control animals safely and effectively. Ensure that these aids are used properly to prevent harm or discomfort.
• For larger or more aggressive dogs,
consider the use of head collars or harnesses for better control.
Teamwork Matters
• Involve additional staff members when handling difficult or large animals. Having an extra pair of hands can make procedures safer and more efficient.
Reduce Stress for Animals
Create a Calming Environment
• Keep the area quiet and free from unnecessary stimuli. Use white noise machines or calming music to mask outside noises.
• Separate cats and dogs in waiting areas and treatment rooms whenever possible.
Use Pheromone Products
• Diffusers or sprays containing calming pheromones, such as Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs, can help reduce anxiety.
Practice Fear-Free Techniques
• Inquire with owners about any history of fearful behavior in their animal(s).
• Offer treats or toys to create a positive association with the clinic.
• Use gentle handling techniques that prioritize the animal’s comfort.
Personal Safety for Staff
Wear Protective Gear
• Use gloves, and eye protection as needed, especially when handling fractious animals or those with infectious diseases.
Maintain Proper Body Mechanics
• Avoid lifting heavy animals alone. Use lifting aids or ask for assistance to prevent back strain or other injuries.
Stay Up-to-Date on Training
• Regularly attend workshops or refresher courses on animal handling and restraint techniques.
• Train new staff thoroughly before allowing them to handle and restrain animals independently.
Handling Aggressive or Fearful Animals
Have a Plan
• For animals known to be aggressive, prepare in advance by having the
necessary tools and staff ready.
• Potentially admit the animal directly into an exam room if one is available. If possible, have the veterinarian and/ or staff member be in the exam room before the animal enters.
Use Sedation When Necessary
• If an animal is highly stressed or aggressive, sedation may be the safest option for both the animal and staff.
Defer Procedures if Needed
• If the situation is unsafe, consider rescheduling or referring the animal to a specialist experienced in handling challenging cases.
Post-Handling Practices
Document Behaviors
• Record details about the animal’s behavior and what handling techniques work best for future visits.
Review and Reflect
• After a challenging case, review the process with your team to identify areas for improvement.
Safe animal handling is both an art and a science, requiring training, patience, observation, and skill. By implementing these best practices, veterinary practices can create a safer and more stress-free environment for everyone involved. Remember, a calm and confident approach is key to gaining the trust of the animals and ensuring a positive experience for both pets and their owners.
In partnership with
Unique Insights from an Avian Practitioner: A Journey into a Feathered World of Practice
By Brian Speer, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice), DECZM (Avian)
Going into veterinary school, I was excited to work with animals and their stewards—as are most of us who enter the veterinary profession. The thought of being a modern-day James Herriot who worked with “all creatures, great and small” was a driving force for my educational path and early career. My short, two-week rotation with the late Dr. Murray Fowler, head of the zoological medicine service at UC Davis opened my eyes to many zoological species. Everything was exciting and anything seemed possible!
After I graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 1983 with a mixed animal track, I was off into the world of private practice, moving to the California Delta, where I still reside today. I started in a new small animal practice, but I was also free to get out and see larger animals. Over the next two years, it became increasingly apparent to me
that being a “jack of all trades, master of none” did not satisfy a sizeable part of my professional drive, and thus some soul-searching began. I asked myself questions like: “Where is your passion, professionally? What, in the wide, wild world in front of you, really excites you?”
With more practice experience and by attending CE lectures, I was surprised to discover that the answer was birds! At the time, there was no avian species specialty, no avian-exclusive practices, and no template on which to model this budding career focus. Friends and colleagues almost universally told me that a concentration on avian medicine could not work; there was neither enough known about the field nor the patient load necessary to earn a living.
However, my wife Denise—a fellow classmate and veterinarian who also found a different passion outside of practice through teaching human anatomy and physiology to nursing students—understood and supported me every step of the way. I felt at home attending the Association of Avian Veterinarians’ (AAV) annual meetings, and I quickly came to personally know colleagues from all over the United States and abroad who shared the same passion for birds, avian medicine, and
surgery. Surprisingly, after a mere five years, I found that my caseload was busy enough with avian species that I needed to limit my personal cases to avian species alone. None of this was planned; it just happened! I continued to manage the small animal practice until it was ultimately sold in 2004, and we moved the Medical Center for Birds into its own building. That move was eye-opening. It became readily apparent that this deep dive into a focused and dedicated avian practice offered unique opportunities to learn more, do more, and grow more.
In 2003, the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) formed the firstever avian practice specialty, and I was fortunate enough to study and pass that examination. When the European College of Avian Medicine and Surgery (ECAMS), now the European College of Zoological Medicine (Avian Specialty), was formed, I was heartened to qualify for and be approved for membership there as well. Achieving specialty recognition, however, proved not to be an end point. It has become increasingly evident that through sharing knowledge, presenting at those annual AAV meetings, and publishing material, I continue to learn and my network of professional colleagues and friends on a global nature continues to grow. What a fabulous world!
“It became readily apparent that this deep dive into a focused and dedicated avian practice offered unique opportunities to learn more, do more, and grow more.”
The Medical Center for Birds is no longer a small practice, with six fulltime veterinarians, an established ABVP residency program that has now graduated nine residents and numerous interns, and an approved European College of Zoological Medicine Avian specialty residency program. Our practice has regularly hosted visiting residents from other programs and students from numerous veterinary schools abroad. Teaching has become a part of our structural core, in addition to our goals of continual provision of high-quality service for our patients and their stewards. Although so many of our visitors, interns, and residents came to learn from us, so many of them have taught us at the same time.
Who would have thought that following one’s passion could result in being invited to teach and lecture all over the world, publish and contribute to the specialty and our profession, do field work on conservation projects in international settings, and take on leadership roles within the AAV, the North American Veterinary Conference, and other groups? Several awards and recognitions came along with these experiences—each one coming as a humbling surprise and providing even more of a push to continue to learn more, do more, and become better. How could these things really happen in private practice, in a specialty that did not even exist when I graduated?
Additionally, I've been honored to contribute to the field through writing and editing. The first large text that I co-authored was The Large Macaws, published in 1995. Since then, I have coauthored the first and second editions of Birds for Dummies. I was invited to serve as primary editor for Current Therapy in Avian Medicine and Surgery, which was published in 2015, and volume two was published in February 2025.
This has been an incredible ride—one that was driven by using that golden ticket of a veterinary degree, by earning an excellent education from UC Davis, by finding the joy and passion that really excited me, and by building my dream with the support of friends and family.
The development of my career along the way was always supported by family. Without those people who are so important in our lives and to share our lives with, the developing career is far from the whole picture. Probably those choices we make are what some refer to as “work–life balance.” Maybe there never really is a balance, but rather a series of choices and opportunities that we hope to shape to be complimentary in our lives that are never dismissive of the other side of the fraction.
In summary, what do I have to share with my colleagues in this story? Learn good medicine and surgery during school and afterwards. Never stop learning. Find, identify, and follow your professional passions, whatever they may be. Be kind and choose your words with care, as tomorrow you may have to eat them. Wear your compassion on your sleeve, and always be willing to show it and share it. Pay close heed to your family and those you love—it is their support that will help keep you grounded. Don’t take “it’s impossible” or “it can’t be done” as the end point of advice but appreciate that it may very well mean that more time will be required and that the journey may take longer than more established tracks. Always remember that your veterinary degree, truly, is your golden ticket that can help take you wherever you desire. This does not have to be a journey into a feathered world of professional activities but can go wherever your heart and your passion may guide you as a veterinarian.
“This has been an incredible ride—one that was driven by using that golden ticket of a veterinary degree, by earning an excellent education from UC Davis, by finding the joy and passion that really excited me, and by building my dream with the support of friends and family.”
A Conversation with the CVMA’s California Emerging Leader, Dr. Elizabeth Grant
On January 9–11, 2025, CVMA leadership attended the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) Veterinary Leadership Conference in Chicago. Representing the CVMA as California’s “emerging leader” was Dr. Elizabeth Grant, a small animal associate veterinarian at Community Veterinary Hospital in Garden Grove, California. Dr. Grant graduated from UC Davis with her DVM degree in 2023. Her parents, Drs. William Grant II and Dayna Wiedenkeller, are both past-presidents of the CVMA.
Taryn DeOilers, the CVMA’s Director of Communications, interviewed Dr. Grant about her experience as the CVMA’s emerging leader at the AVMA conference. Below is a transcript of the interview, edited for length and clarity.
TARYN DEOILERS: Can you tell me what made you interested in representing the CVMA as California’s “emerging leader”?
DR. ELIZABETH GRANT: During my time in veterinary school, I was the CVMA’s alternate student delegate. I have to
acknowledge my parents’ role in organized veterinary medicine. They both really emphasized the importance of giving back to the profession. As a new grad, I had been looking for ways to get involved with the CVMA, but even with my parents’ involvement, it was a bit overwhelming because there are so many ways to do so. This felt like a really good start.
TD: Can you walk me through each day of the conference and what you experienced?
DR. GRANT: The first day had many CE opportunities for leadership. I went to a few different CE sessions, covering everything from how to integrate talking about finances while still being a compassionate veterinarian, to creating a good culture of accountability and addressing toxic work environments.
Later that night, we had the district caucus meeting, where the different geographic districts meet. California is part of District X, which also includes Nevada and Hawaii. Everyone gave updates on what’s been going on at their state VMAs, and we talked about all the resolutions that would be discussed at the House of Delegates meeting over the next two days. This was such an eye-opening weekend for me, to see how involved so many people are in making decisions through the AVMA and all the different state VMAs.
Over the next two days, my focus was on attending the House of Delegates meetings. We talked about the resolutions, and then they ultimately voted on them. It was fun to watch.
TD: What was your favorite part about the whole experience?
DR. GRANT: My favorite part was hearing the opinions from so many different
veterinarians and organizations. When they talk about a resolution, it’s easy to have your own opinion on it. But then someone will stand up who’s part of, for example, the American Association of Avian Pathologists, or the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, and they talk about things that matter to them and that are really important—things I wouldn’t have thought of as a small animal general practice veterinarian. It was such a good reminder of all the amazing things we can do in our profession.
TD: Can you explain why it’s important to find time to get involved in organized veterinary medicine?
DR. GRANT: There are so many policies that are getting pushed through that affect our profession. That’s not something I realized initially—how people who aren’t part of our profession are trying to make decisions for our profession. It’s so important for us to be involved, advocate for ourselves, and stand up for our profession. We’re seeing that now more than ever with the mid-level practitioner initiative coming out of Colorado. It’s also important for us to be able to educate people, including our clients. After this trip to Chicago, I was able to educate my friends from veterinary school because none of them knew about these issues— not because they don’t care, but because as a new grad you are so busy and focused on learning.
TD: Do you have any advice for someone who is right out of veterinary school and wants to get involved but is nervous to do so?
DR. GRANT: I would find an email contact for their state VMA and reach out, even if you don’t know what you want to be involved in. Everyone has been so nice and welcoming, and the VMAs want more involvement. New grads are the next generation, and this is a very important time to get more engaged.
Register for the CVMA Spring Seminar at Yosemite Last Chance!
April 4–6, 2025 12 CEUs
Advance Registration ends March 31. Onsite registration will be available at the Tenaya Lodge.
TLOCATION
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
1122 Hwy 41 Fish Camp, CA 93623
here’s still time to register for the CVMA’s popular Spring Seminar at Yosemite! All veterinary staff are invited to engage in illuminating sessions covering pharmacology and dentistry, connect with peers from across the West Coast, participate in free lunch and learns to earn extra RACE-approved CE, and explore the world-renowned Yosemite National Park in the afternoons.
Speakers
Dawn Boothe, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVIM, DACVCP
Topic: Pharmacology
• Interpretation of C&S: Still the Best Bang for Bug?‡
• Designing the Dosing Regimen: The MIC Is Still the KEY‡
• The Impact of Antimicrobials on the Microbiota‡
The room block is full; however, there may be suites or cabins at the Tenaya Lodge available for an upgrade cost. If interested, please contact Stefanie Rainwater, Reservations Supervisor, at srainwater@delawarenorth.com. Visit the Spring Seminar page at cvma.net for a list of nearby hotels.
• The Three D’s: A Case-Based Approach to De-escalation, Decontamination, and Design of the Dosing Regimen
• Monoclonal Antibodies Part I: Are They Really Drugs?
• Monoclonal Antibodies Part II: A Review of Drugs Currently Approved for Small Animals
‡This course satisfies the one hour of California CE requirement on the judicious use of medically important antimicrobial drugs.
Curt Coffman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC
Topic: Dentistry
• Tips and Tricks for Successful Tooth Extractions
• Dental X-Ray Interpretation and Diagnosis
• It’s Broken—Can It Be Fixed? Diagnosing and Treating Fractured/Injured Teeth
• Bad Bites and Baby Teeth: Navigating Dental Problems in Puppies and Kittens
• Feline Dentistry: Clinical Case Discussion of Oral and Dental Problems in Cats
• Canine Dentistry: Clinical Case Discussion of Oral and Dental Problems in Dogs
Full course descriptions available at cvma.net.
Sponsored by
There are only a few spots left, so don’t wait! Visit the Continuing Education tab at cvma.net, scan the QR code, or call the CVMA office at 800.655.2862 to register.
UC Davis Advancing Comparative Oncology
Dr. Stephanie Goldschmidt sees many dogs at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine with squamous cell carcinoma, one of the most common oral cancers in dogs. Thankfully, many of these dogs can be saved with surgery and other treatments. Additionally, they can help advance cancer treatments for humans by
WESTERN
U NEWS
participating in clinical trials funded by UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center at UC Health.
Cancer in dogs is similar to cancer in people. Clinical trials involving dogs are helping scientists advance cancer cell detection, with the potential to improve oral surgery outcomes for canines and their human companions. It’s called comparative oncology, and it holds the promise of transforming cancer treatments for pets as well as people.
The center’s Comparative Oncology Program draws on UC Davis’ key strengths as the top-ranked veterinary school in the country. The program investigates the disease mechanisms
that are implicated in the genesis and progression of cancer and seeks to understand the genetics, immunology, and microenvironment of tumors in the preclinical setting using animal models. This approach promotes animal health and provides insights into human cancer.
The program aims to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which cellular and viral oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes are involved in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis; characterize metabolic and immunologic tumor heterogeneity to inform cancer diagnosis and treatment; and conduct preclinical trials using companion animal cancer patients in order to inform human cancer research and promote translation, especially in the area of innovative therapies.
Western University of Health Sciences’ Professors Produce Foundational Book on Chicken Anatomy and Histology
Dr. Wael Khamas, BVM&S, MS, PhD
WJosep Rutllant, DVM, PhD
estern University of Health Sciences’ professors Drs. Wael Khamas, BVM&S, MS, PhD, and Josep Rutllant, DVM, PhD, have co-edited "Anatomy and Histology of the Domestic Chicken," a fundamental text on that most important bird.
Publisher Wiley describes the new book as "a state-of-the-art atlas of avian anatomy that provides a complete collection of both original gross anatomy and histology
photographs and texts of all body systems of the birds based on the domestic chicken to depict anatomic features."
The text includes more than 200 highresolution, top-quality color images and diagrams. It incorporates cutting-edge technology to create visualizations of anatomic structures, enabling readers to understand the macro- and micro-pictures of each organ/structure under study.
Drs. Khamas and Rutllant, both longtime WesternU CVM professors, have vast experience in avian research and, with this book, have developed a comprehensive reference.
Contributors to the book include a number of WesternU faculty members: Dr. Thomas Marino, Mr. Ken Noriega, Dr. Miguel Saggese, and Dr. Teresa Morishita, along with former faculty members Dr. Manel Lopez-Bejar and Dr. Hrvoje Smodlaka.
Topics covered in the encyclopedic volume include: external features of the body, including regions, features, ornaments, shape, feathers, skin, and the uropygial gland; musculoskeletal characteristics, including cartilage and bone formation and classification, as well as flight and ambulatory muscles; digestive system, including the beak, esophagus, crop, proventriculus, ventriculus, intestines, and accessory glands; respiratory system, including external nares, nasal cavity, trachea, upper larynx, syrinx, lungs, and air sacs; urinary system, including kidneys and the ureter, cloaca-urodeum, and genital system, covering differences between males and females; and much more!
More about the book can be found by scanning the QR code.
Introducing the Student Poster Presenters at the 2025 PacVet in Long Beach!
Veterinary students from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine will be presenting their research at the Vet Expo of the Pacific Veterinary Conference in Long Beach. The student presenters will be available to take questions and pore over their theses during lunch breaks on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 and during the lateafternoon breaks.
WESTERNU STUDENT POSTER PRESENTERS AND TOPICS
Natalie Titiriga, Class of 2027
• Analyzing Communication Phenotypes of Soundboard Trained Pets in Comparison to Birds
Melinda Weinberg, Class of 2026
• A Comparison of the Pain Level in Dogs After Laparoscopic Ovariectomy and Traditional Open-Abdomen Ovariectomy Having the Same Analgesic Protocol
Simonne Sequeira, Class of 2026
• Effects of Land Use and Temperature on Tick and Tick-Borne Pathogen Distribution in Eastern Oregon
UC DAVIS STUDENT POSTER PRESENTERS AND TOPICS
Mindy Nguyen, Class of 2027
• Comparison Between Epidural Versus Intraperitoneal-Incisional Bupivacaine in Cats Undergoing Elective Ovariohysterectomy with Opioid-Free Multimodal Anesthesia in Vietnam
PACVET ALUMNI RECEPTIONS
Attention all UC Davis and WesternU alumni! You are invited to join your peers and college’s current students during evening receptions. Catch up with former classmates, make new friends, dine on hors d’oeuvres, and enjoy a no-host bar.
Something to Wag About
THE CVMA CONGRATULATES…
Bliss Animal Hospital, for celebrating its one-year anniversary this past January! Founded by Dr. Nayara Pataro and CVMA member Dr. Sam Amirshahi, Lake Forest’s Bliss Animal Hospital offers a range of services, including wellness exams, dental care, vaccinations, spay and neuter services, urgent care, and endof-life support. To the full practice team at Bliss Animal Hospital, we wish you an even more successful second year!
Drs. Julie Cole and Chris Shacoski, for opening their new practice, the Cat Tales Feline Health Center’s Tabby Tea Cat Lounge and Adoption Center in Davis! Drs. Cole and Shacoski aim to establish a specialized feline health center that is not only for healing sick cats, but for helping healthy cats enjoy more flourishing lives. The Tabby Tea Cat Lounge portion of the practice provides a calm, quiet atmosphere for adoptable shelter cats, where cat lovers can enjoy complimentary beverages and spend quality time with the cats. Drs. Cole and Shacoski, thank you for taking such great care of our feline friends!
Dr. Joan Dean Rowe, for receiving the George McConnell Award from the American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners (AASRP). This award recognizes a small ruminant practitioner who has given extraordinary service to both the AASRP and small ruminant practice. A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and a professor emeritus of population health and reproduction at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Rowe has previously served as president of the AASRP and has held a multitude of leadership positions within the dairy goat industry. Congratulations on this well-earned honor!
Veterinary Insurance Services Company (VISC), for hosting a successful toy drive for children in need this past holiday season! Thanks to the help of 13 veterinary practices in the Sacramento area, VISC delivered over 300 new toys to Children's Receiving Home of Sacramento, which provides a spectrum of services for youth in crisis across the Sacramento region. Thank you to everyone who participated in making the holidays and new year brighter for children experiencing adversity!
Veterinary Surgical Specialists (VSSOC), for the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art surgery center last month! Dr. Diane Craig, past-president of the CVMA, has owned VSSOC since 2000. This expansion, in development for 18 months, adds an additional 10,000 square feet of space, including five exam rooms, 10 treatment bays, radiology suites, patient housing with a 20-run ward, and more. The surgery center also features cutting-edge surgical equipment, such as a surgical light system that delivers video feed directly over the operating table. Congratulations to the whole VSSOC team for this amazing step!
LET’S CELEBRATE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS!
The CVMA likes to spotlight the many accomplishments of our members and their practices, whether a professional development or a personal milestone. Don’t be shy! Please send in your good news and a photo to Taryn DeOilers, the CVMA’s Director of Communications, at tdeoilers@cvma.net to be considered.
Last Chance to Advance Register! CVMA Equine Medicine Seminar
April 4–6, 2025 12 CEUs
Calling all equine practitioners: The CVMA has the perfect event for you! The CVMA’s first-ever Equine Medicine Seminar takes place in less than a month on April 4–6! Happening just outside of Yosemite National Park, this event brings world-class equine-specific CE to a dream location. The CVMA Equine Medicine Seminar is an in-person-only event.
Speakers and Sessions
Friday, April 4
Saturday, April 5
Sunday, April 6
Julie Dechant, DVM, MS, DACVS, ACVECC
Topic: Colic and Emergency Care
• Updates in Field Assessment and Treatment
• Recurrent Colic
• Management of Hemorrhage
• Management of Penetrating Injuries to the Equine Hoof
Anthony Pease, DVM, MS, DACVR Topic: Diagnostic Imaging
• Respiratory Imaging of the Horse
• Musculoskeletal Radiographs
• Ultrasound Evaluation of the Distal Limbs
• Abdominal Ultrasound in the Horse
Dean Hendrickson, DVM, MS, DACVS Topic: Wound Healing
• Wound Cleaning and Preparation
• Wound Debridement and Evaluation
• Wound Therapy Primary Closure, Delayed Primary Closure, Skin Grafting, and Second Intention Healing (Part 1)
The room block is full; however, there may be suites or cabins at the Tenaya Lodge available for an upgrade cost. If interested, please contact Stefanie Rainwater, Reservations Supervisor, at srainwater@delawarenorth.com. Visit the Equine Medicine Seminar page at cvma.net for a list of nearby hotels.
Don’t wait! Registration for this event closes on March 31. To register, visit the Learning tab at cvma.net, call the CVMA at 800.655.2862, or scan the QR code.
Sponsored by:
California’s 2025 Reportable Disease List
By the California Department of Food and Agriculture Animal Health Branch
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) reviewed and updated the List of Reportable Conditions for Animals and Animal Products (also known as the “Reportable Disease List”) in September of 2024. Due to our response efforts within the current highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) incident, we expect to update this list again later in 2025. The current reportable disease list is included in this edition, as well as available on the CDFA’s Reporting Animal Disease website. This website includes links to information and factsheets for the conditions on this List to assist with public awareness and education.
It is important to remember that Emergency Conditions must be reported within 24 (twenty-four) hours of suspicion or confirmation, Regulatory Conditions within 48 (forty-eight) hours, and Monitored Conditions within 30 (thirty) days. Each of these categories of condition is defined at the abovereferenced website.
California veterinarians in the clinic and in the field are critical in the early and rapid detection of these diseases and conditions that can have major
impacts on California’s animal and livestock populations, including those affecting the food supply chain, as well as in providing immediate disease intervention and mitigation. Not only is reporting the conditions on this list mandatory (pursuant to Section 9101 of the California Food and Agricultural Code, Title 3 California Code of Regulations §797, and Title 9 Code of Federal Regulations Section 161.4(f)), but prompt recognition and reporting is invaluable to the protection of animal health in California. Through the voluntary yet essential National Veterinary Accreditation Program (NVAP), accredited veterinarians also provide crucial services as the eyes and ears of the veterinary medical community with regard to disease surveillance. Accredited veterinarians may be called upon by state and federal animal health officials to assist with disease testing, monitoring, mitigation measures, and quarantine oversight as part of their vital service and inherent responsibilities taking part in this program.
Accredited veterinarians may be called upon by state and federal animal health officials to assist with disease testing, monitoring, mitigation measures, and quarantine oversight as part of their vital service and inherent responsibilities taking part in this program.
LIST OF REPORTABLE CONDITIONS FOR ANIMALS AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS*
*Pursuant to Section 9101 of the California Food and Agricultural Code, Title 3 California Code of Regulations § 797 and Title 9 Code of Federal Regulations Section 161.4(f)
WHO MUST REPORT: Any licensed veterinarian, any person operating a diagnostic laboratory, or any person who has been informed, recognizes or should recognize by virtue of education, experience, or occupation, that any animal or animal product is or may be affected by, or has been exposed to, or may be transmitting or carrying any of the following conditions, must promptly report the condition(s) per the lists below.
WHAT TO REPORT: Immediately report any animal disease or condition not known to exist in the United States, any event with increased mortality and/or morbidity of unknown cause or source, and any toxicology condition likely to contaminate animals or animal products (meat, milk or eggs)
IN ADDITION TO LISTED CONDITIONS, CALL IF YOU SEE: High morbidity or mortality, vesicles, unexplained CNS signs, unusual ticks, hemorrhagic septicemias, unusual larvae in wounds, and/or unusual or unexplained illness
Report any emergency, regulatory, or monitored condition within the provided time frame Some diseases are listed under the major species of concern; if you see compatible signs for such conditions in another species, PLEASE REPORT!
EMERGENCY CONDITIONS
REGULATORY CONDITIONS
MONITORED CONDITIONS
Report within Two Days of Discovery Report within 30 Days of Discovery Report within 24 Hours of Discovery
MULTIPLE SPECIES
General, non-specific conditions: Unexplained high
MULTIPLE SPECIES
• Brucellosis (B. melitensis, B. abortus, B. suis)1
• Pseudorabies / Aujeszky’s disease (SuHV-1)
MULTIPLE SPECIES
• Bluetongue (BTV)
• Echinococcosis / hydatidosis (Echinococcus spp) mortality or diseased animals; livestock exposed to toxic
• Equine herpesvirus-1 and 4 infections (excluding Newcastle disease, vNDV)
US Department of Agriculture
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services EHM) Veterinary Services (VS)
• Equine influenza (EIV)
EQUINE 10365 Old Placerville Road, Suite 210
• African horse sickness (AHSV) Sacramento, CA 95827-2518
• Dourine (Trypanosoma equiperdum) Toll free at 1-877-741-3690
• Glanders (Farcy; Burkholderia mallei)
• Hendra virus infection (HeV)
• Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis (VEEV)
CERVIDS/LAGOMORPHS/CAMELIDS
• Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV)
REPORT FISH, AMPHIBIAN, CRUSTACEAN, BEE, AND MOLLUSK DISEASES as listed on USDA National List of Reportable Diseases
• Equine viral arteritis (EAV)
• Strangles (Streptococcus equi subsp equi)
CERVIDS/LAGOMORPHS/CAMELIDS
• Camelpox (Camelpox virus)
• Myxomatosis (Myxoma virus)
1 Diseases in blue, seen in any species, are also reportable to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
WEIGHING THE PROS AND CONS:
Employment Contracts in the Veterinary Profession
By Jizell Lopez, Wilke Fleury LLP
An employment contract is a written document that the employer and employee sign to define the terms of the employment relationship. It is important to understand the benefits and risks regarding the use of employment contracts, particularly given unique considerations in the State of California.
Advantages of Employment Contracts
There are several advantages of employment contracts. The first such benefit is that a contract provides clarity and sets expectations for both the employer and employee. In that regard, the employment contract should define the employee’s job duties, compensation, and benefits. This is particularly important in the veterinary field, as many veterinarians are provided either a sign-on bonus or a base salary with a production-based bonus. This information should be clearly defined in the employment agreement.
Second, the employment contract should define the “term” of the contract. There are two options related to the contract term. The employer and employee can agree that this employment contract will be considered “at-will,” which allows the employer to terminate the agreement at any time, absent an illegal reason. Meanwhile, the second option is to include a “fixed term” in the agreement. The fixed term allows both potential job security for employees and stability and predictability for employers. For example, the employer and employee may agree to a one-year term of employment. When it comes to setting a fixed term of an employment agreement, there are additional considerations for both parties to consider, including whether the employment contract will include termination provisions “for cause” and “without cause.” It will be essential to determine this at the time of drafting the agreement, as this will set the parameters for either party to terminate the agreement subject to the limitations in the employment contract.
Third, employment contracts allow the parties to include customizable terms, such as specific benefits offered to the veterinarian, including a stipend for continuing education, paid vacation and/ or PTO, insurance benefits, professional liability coverage, and more. Further, employers may define what is considered “confidential information and intellectual property” to deter employees from the unauthorized use of confidential information and intellectual property.
Disadvantages of Employment Contracts
While employment contracts may set terms and clarify the scope of employment, there are disadvantages that both employees and employers need to take into consideration, including reduced flexibility, potential for costly litigation, limitation on at-will employment, the general unenforceability of non-compete restrictions, and potential for unintended obligations.
“In California, employment contracts offer both benefits and risks. It is vital that both employers and employees weigh the pros and cons and seek legal guidance to avoid common pitfalls”
and clarify California’s prohibition against non-compete agreements. SB 699 now prohibits employers from enforcing non-compete employee agreements that do not fit within one of the exceptions under Business and Profession Code section 16600 (i.e., the sale of a business, the dissolution of partnership, or the termination of interest in a limited liability company).
As mentioned previously, employment contracts allow the parties to set a term for the agreement. This will alter the presumption of at-will employment. Depending upon the termination provisions of the contract, employers may have difficulty terminating employees before the contract expires, and employees may be bound to terms they later find unfavorable. Further, if the contract has vague and ambiguous terms, this may lead to disputes by either the employer or employee. This can lead to costly litigation in the event a breach of contract claim is alleged.
Most importantly, a big change to be aware of is that non-competes are now generally unenforceable. Many employers, including those in the veterinary field, previously relied upon non-compete provisions in an employment contract. The non-compete provision would prevent the employee from working for a competing company or starting a similar business within a specific geographic area and time period after their employment. While non-compete provisions have been generally unenforceable for years, in October of 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 699 (“SB 699,” effective Jan. 1, 2024) to enhance
SB 699 clarifies that non-compete agreements which do not fit within a statutory exception are void, regardless of where the agreement was signed or where the employee worked when the agreement was signed. Further, SB 699 bans employers from entering into a contract with an employee or prospective employee that includes a prohibited noncompete provision. Keep in mind that, even if an employment contract containing a non-compete clause was signed outside of California, it is still considered void under California law, effectively protecting confidential information by not restricting an employee’s ability to move to a new job within the state; however, it does not prevent employers from using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect truly sensitive trade secrets and confidential business information.
Conclusion
In California, employment contracts offer both benefits and risks. It is vital that both employers and employees weigh the pros and cons and seek legal guidance to avoid common pitfalls. Employment contracts should reflect clear terms and reflect mutual interests.
Jizell Lopez is a civil litigation attorney who primarily represents clients in federal and state court litigation and before administrative agencies regarding all manner of employment claims, including single plaintiff lawsuits, class action lawsuits, and wage and hour representative lawsuits. Jizell’s practice includes allegations of harassment, discrimination, wrongful termination, retaliation, wage and hour non-compliance, and more.
and answer questions ANALYZE business & personal financials
FUTURE PLANNING tax payments, budgeting, and avoiding tax pitfalls
The CVMA extends our sympathy to the friends and family of those remembered.
Dr. Suzanna Hanson, a CVMA Life Member, passed away on August 21, 2024. A 1987 graduate of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Hanson started her career as a mixed animal practitioner at Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic. She joined Mangrove Veterinary, prior to owning her veterinary practice, Animal Health Associates. Most recently, Dr. Hanson was a valued colleague at VCA Valley Oak Veterinary Center and the Northwest SPCA in Oroville, California. Dr. Hanson served on the CVMA Board of Governors from 2007–2014 and on the CVMA House of Delegates from 2004–2007, representing the Chico/North Valley region.
In memory of deceased members, the CVMA makes a donation to the California Veterinary Medical Foundation, whose mission statement reads: “Nurturing kindness, education, and well-being for all animals, people, and the environment.”
POSITIONS OFFERED
Northern California
Veterinarians
Like us, you have a calling to be a caregiver and a life-long learner and to be a part of something bigger; to be a valued professional, a part of a passionate and focused team, and part of a vibrant community. Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital is a privately owned animal hospital focused on providing exceptional personalized care for pets and their people, and a supportive and collaborative environment for our staff. We understand that our team is our greatest asset, and we believe that caring for our team first is the key to our ability to provide great care for our patients and clients. We treat our patients, our clients and our staff like family. And we are completely dedicated to our family. Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital is located in San Rafael, CA, in the heart of desirable Marin County. Our long, warm Summers and mild Winters are perfect for soaking in those stunning views over the bay and visiting the plethora of nearby attractions such as Muir Woods, the vineyards of Sonoma and Napa Valleys, numerous beaches and national parks and the nearby cities of San Francisco and Berkeley. Practice highlights: AAHA accredited; Spacious, well-equipped exam rooms; Digital radiography; A fully equipped dental suite; In-house laboratory including Vetscan Imagyst; Ultrasound; Surgical Laser; Dedicated support staff; Visiting Internist and Ultrasonographer. We offer: Competitive Salary: $190,000-225,000; Sign-on Bonus-$60,000; Relocation Assistance stipend; Dedicated, personalized mentorship for early-career Veterinarians; Professional Licensing reimbursement; Professional Association dues; Generous PTO; CE stipend and additional PTO for CE attendance; Health, Dental and Vision insurance benefits; Pet discounts (because your pets are part of our family too). We are seeking a Veterinary Associate who is as passionate, focused and caring as we are. Someone whose unique strengths and interests will lift us up and enrich our hospital culture. A veterinarian of any experience level who wants to live in a beautiful area, grow with us and love what they do every day. Email sfmmvet@vail.net.
The Agate Bay Animal Hospital, Lake Tahoe, is looking for a Veterinary Associate! Veterinarian owned, well-respected 2-doctor small animal practice with great current toys and protocols, located in a beautiful two-story light-filled space, five-minute walk to a beautiful swimming beach, nestled in the Tahoe National Forest with hiking trails outside the front door. I’m a huge fan of independent hospital ownership and am open to an Associate Buy-In, Buy-out. We’re in California and we believe in fun, medicine, & science- come join the party! Compensation: We schedule a 32-hour, 4-day week- and with 2 doctors + a reliable and talented relief team, we’re flexible enough to make everyone’s work schedule accommodate their play schedule. No after-hours emergencies. No negative accrual. Base pay starts at $120K with a 22% production bonus (and the base pay resets upwards annually to the equivalent of 95% of the previous year’s base + bonus, so your PTO is always protected). Happy to negotiate this upwards for experienced doctors. Newer grads will easily earn 120 K+, and experienced practitioners working full time (32 hours/week) will easily earn in the mid 200K range while still having 3 full days off & the energy to enjoy them! 401K with 4% match. People Keep healthcare fund 3 weeks PTO plus additional unpaid time off on an agreed upon basis (we are pretty flexible). We add ½ week of PTO/year until you have a full month of PTO/year, 1 week wellness time off (protected time off for doctors’ appts/ illness/ etc.), VIN membership, CVMA membership, DEA license. Newer grads: VVI Formal Internship program along with 1 hour of paid internship study time/day through year one. Experienced veterinarians: $1,500 stipend for CE and PTO needed to participate in same. Basic apartment available- rent free- for prn use while transitioning to Tahoe. Our onsite Pet Camp with its’ acre of play space and swim tubs will encourage your dogs to come play while you work, so everyone is living their best life! California has made it MUCH easier to get local licensure, so don’t let your current location stand in the way of your future dreams!! Please send resume and cover letter to BreeMontanaDVM@iCloud.com.
Redwood Veterinary Clinic in Santa Rosa, California is currently looking for a full and/or part time veterinarian. Redwood Veterinary Clinic is a privately-owned, full-service hospital. It partners with Emergency Animal Hospital of
Santa Rosa and shared the same facility. Working together their goals are to offer progressive, high-quality veterinary, medical, surgical and emergency services. Our fully staffed, enthusiastic, cohesive team understands that we earn our patients’ and clients’ trust through respect, integrity, and exceptional care. We have been offering excellent care to the community for nearly 75 years and look forward to the next 75 years. Redwood Veterinary Clinic prides itself for having been AAHA accredited for well over 60 years! We are offering an associate veterinarian an array of benefits which include: a competitive salary, a 401k package with 5% employer pay-in, health insurance, continuing education stipend, reimbursement for membership dues and license fees, among many other benefits. Redwood Veterinary Clinic (www.redwoodvetclinic.com) is located in Sonoma County, California. We are just a few hours away from the Sierra and minutes from the Pacific Coast. The climate ranges from hot in the eastern part of the county, to mild and cool as you travel west toward the ocean. The county offers an array of outdoor activities including biking, boating, and hiking as well as sights of great historical value. If you are interested in applying or would like more information regarding the position, please feel free to contact us. Email lhoskins515@gmail.com Phone 707.542.4012.
Central California
Veterinarians
Bishop Veterinary Hospital, Inc is seeking associate veterinarians to join our team of talented, hardworking, and dedicated staff. We are seeking part-time/full-time/ locum positions with competitive pay, health insurance, paid vacation, retirement plan, and numerous other employee benefits for families including the pets! Bishop Vet is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in rural Bishop, California where outdoor recreation activities abound. We are a mixed-animal practice operating offices in 4 communities
ADVERTISING INDEX
throughout our region: Mammoth Lakes, CA, Bishop, CA, Ridgecrest, CA and Tonopah, NV. We treat 80% small animal patients and 20% large animal patients in our vast rural practice area. Our Bishop clinic has full diagnostic capabilities including in-house and portable digital radiography, in-house and portable ultrasound, video endoscopy, and complete in-house laboratory systems. We provide the full spectrum of medical and surgical services to clients and local shelters. Several board-certified specialists rotate through our office to provide referral services locally- including small and large animal surgery, ophthalmology, oncology, and dermatology. As a rural clinic, we also offer emergency service on-call 365 days per year. We seek motivated individuals with strong work ethic and a foundation in small animal medicine and surgery, but experience with other species or willingness to learn is desired. Please email resume and references to Dr. Taylor Ludwick at: tpludwick@bishopvet.com or call 760.873.5801. See our website at www.bishopveterinaryhospital.com.
