Advocate Issue 2, 2015

F V M A ADVOCATE ISSUE 2 - March | April 2015

FVMA PRIORITY LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE PASSES

AND IS AWAITING GOVERNOR SCOTT’S SIGNATURE ~ Page 8 -9

President's

MESSAGE

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7207 Monetary Drive Orlando, Florida 32809 Phone – (407) 851‑3862 Toll Free – (800) 992‑3862 Fax – (407) 240‑3710 info@fvma.org | www.fvma.org

reeting colleagues and friends, as I assume the position of President of the Association, I consider it a great honor to represent our members this year.

Officers

This past year the strategic planning retreat was very likely the most significant happening for the FVMA and a roadmap for where we want to go. The Association has grown so significantly over the last seven or so years it was time to evaluate where we have come from and where we want to go.

Dr. Richard M. Carpenter President Dr. Richard C. Sutliff President-Elect Dr. Richard B. Williams Treasurer Dr. Donald H. Morgan Past President Mr. Philip J. Hinkle Executive Director

District Representatives Dr. Alex M. Steverson District 1–Big Bend Dr. Marc A. Presnell District 3–Central Dr. Rachel Klemawesch District 4–Tampa Bay Dr. Marc D. Pinkwasser District 5–Treasure Coast Dr. Marta P. Lista District 6–South Florida Dr. Mary Smart District 7–Southwest Dr. James M. Brechin District 8–Northwest Dr. Kelly J. Sloan-Wade District 9–Space Coast Dr. Stephen Shores AVMA Delegate Dr. Ernest C. Godfrey AVMA Alternate Delegate Dr. Amanda House FAEP Representative to the FVMA Executive Board Ex Officio Dr. James W. Lloyd, Dean UF College of Veterinary Medicine

FVMA Staff

Sandra P. Brooks Accounting/Membership Director Kelly Callihan Director of Conferences & Events Amber Coon Executive Assistant Ann Deal Director of Administration & Communications Ralph E. Huber Industry Relations Director Alssa Mathews Multimedia Art & Design Director Beni Jean Price Financial/Membership Coordinator Betsy Pynes Meetings and Events Coordinator Ann Wade Communications & Public Relations Director

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Every organization that grows must reflect on its past and set specific goals for the future, both near and far. As our mission states, we are to advance the profession of veterinary medicine, promote animal health and welfare, and protect the public health. All in all that is a tall order and a challenging goal. Without a specific plan of action we can find ourselves wandering in all directions and accomplishing little.

The plan laid out at the meeting identified several specific goals to focus on over the next five years.

Communication with our members came to the top of our list very quickly. While the FVMA leadership and staff have accomplished many important things such as; member services, relationships with the College of Veterinary Medicine at UF, and legislation top the list. Unfortunately it seems that many of the members are not aware of these accomplishments, an area that is in great need of improvement and it definitely is going to be a focus this year.

Legislatively there are always challenges to be addressed to protect the veterinary practice act and our ability to care for the animals we have committed our lives to. One of the past projects initiated was legislative awareness and activity at the local level. It should be no surprise that our representatives in Tallahassee are local residents somewhere in Florida and a great many of them are pet owners. When we, their pets’ physician, do not get acquainted and build relationships, the legislators hear only the squeakiest wheel making noise in the Capitol Building. This year the ability for the practicing veterinarian to use and dispense compounded medications for our patients was successfully introduced and defended. There are more issues and there will always be new issues showing up and we must be prepared.

We must continue to focus on and work to attract Florida veterinarians into our State Association. It is by making our accomplishments visible and promoting those accomplishments to be sure that non-members see the value of the FVMA. It is not in Boardroom meetings that this happens; it is in our local communities. We must all be ambassadors for our profession and association.

Again, I look forward to serving you and the FVMA this year and continue to build on what we have started and look to the future to continue the success of the FVMA. Respectfully,

Richard M. Carpenter, DVM

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Dr. Donald Morgan Farewell

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his past year has been one to remember. Dianne and I have traveled to places I probably would not have gone. We attended the AVMA Conventions in Denver and in Chicago, ten local meetings from Tallahassee to Miami to Jacksonville, six FVMA Conferences, Tallahassee Legislative Days, College of Veterinary Medicine, and four Board of Veterinary Medicine Meetings.

We have seen a lot and done a lot, visiting and talking to veterinarians across this great state. I am humbled by the confidence and servant responsibility placed upon me and the FVMA.

During the past seven years, I have observed the Executive Board performing responsible governance and exercising great leadership with a vision for its membership. The FVMA has grown to over 3600 members, with an annual budget of $2.4 million. Two years ago, we purchased a 13,000 sq. ft two story building debt free, and sold our old headquarters building. Office staff has grown to 10 employees, greatly needed to service our conferences, publications and membership programs.

We developed a formal partnership in 2011, with the Florida Association of Equine Practitioners who now has a seat on the FVMA Executive Board and our grassroots political action has grown immensely with our Legislative Action Days in Tallahassee growing to over 50 in attendance. Last year, we were able to get sales tax exemption on therapeutic diets, with the assistance of our good friend Senator Jack Latvala. This year, we are working on bills pertaining to the dispensing of compounded medications and the ownership of medical records.

Last November, we held an Executive Board Orientation and Strategic Planning Session led by Mr. Bob Harris, an internationally -recognized facilitator of non-profit organizations and foundations. As a result, we developed a strategic plan to take us into the future.

This past year, we also witnessed our Executive Director, Mr. Phil Hinkle, presented the "Executive of the Year Award" from the American Society of Veterinary Medical Executives (ASVMAE), an achievement of great pride for the Association.

Many of these successes had little to do with me as your President. I simply wanted to bring all our membership up to date on what a wonderfully hard working and successful organization we have and how proud I am to have been a part of the FVMA over the last 48 years.

I have realized that organized veterinary medicine is more important today than ever before. Graduates are leaving college with an enormous debt load averaging $160,000-200,000 and having difficulty finding a job that will sustain that debt. With veterinary salaries being the lowest of all medical professionals, their debt to income ratio will remain high. Maybe with good mentorship, increased salary levels and more scholarship funding at the college level, we can help new graduates enter into this great profession more easily and be proud of their accomplishments.

Again, this has been one of the most exciting times in my life. I want to thank the Executive Board, FVMA Committees, FVMA Staff and our Executive Director, Mr. Phil Hinkle.

Yours in Service,

Don Morgan, DVM

In This Issue 4 | In Remembrance 6 | Meet Our New Officers & Executive Board Members 8 | FVMA Priority Legislative Initiative Passes 10 | 2015 FVMA Award Honorees 16 | 86th FVMA Annual Conference Highlights

18 20 22 27 30

| 2015 TGAVC Invitation | 2015 Industry Partners | Preparing for the Hurricane Season | UFCVM’s Animal Technical Rescue in Florida | Practice Pulse www.fvma.org | 3

In Remembrance JAN O. GARS, DVM

Dr. Jan Orin Gars unexpectedly passed away on Friday, February 13, 2015, at his home in Citra, Florida. He was 63.

He served the Ocala community for 35 years as a veterinarian at Oak Ridge Animal Hospital, which he founded in 1980.

Dr. Gars grew up in Miami-Dade County, and earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Florida. He qualified as a veterinarian at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Throughout his life he maintained diverse interests, and was considered a jack of all trades and a true “renaissance man/MacGyver,” as he was called by his children. He loved plants and animals, owned a working farm where he cultivated an orchard, and loved the arts. As a fine artist, he handmade dolls which he sold at art shows. He painted and wrote poetry, and in recent years began writing children’s books.

He also maintained a passion for fly fishing which he engaged in often.

He was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). He loved spending time on the farm with his partner Athena Alvarez, and with their dogs Mare, Sofia, and Zorro his Champion Havanese.

Dr. Gars is survived by his mother Natalie; partner Athena; daughter Dari; sons Jared and Eric; grandchildren Reagan and Ryan Deas; son-in-law Nick Deas; step-daughters Victoria Alvarez, Monica Canon, and Chrissy Garton; his sisters Mindy Gars Dolandis (Rory) and Shari Notowitz (Scott); and his niece and nephews Brandon, Cloe, and Bryan.

RICHARD A. KLEIN, VMD Dr. Richard A. Klein passed away at the age of 73 on January 23, 2015. Dr. Klein and his wife Bonnie lived in The Villages.

Originally from New Jersey, he attended Oklahoma State University and then the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine where he earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.

He served in the United States Army in Ft. Polk, Louisiana, after which he began his veterinary practice in Howell, New Jersey, specializing in Equine Medicine and Surgery. In addition, Dr. Klein was the veterinarian for the exotic animals at Great Adventure Safari Park in Jackson, New Jersey.

In 1986, the Kleins relocated to Satellite Beach, Florida where he continued to pursue several professional avenues associated with veterinary medicine. On retirement, Dick and Bonnie Klein traveled the country in a recreational vehicle for six years, and finally settled in The Villages in 2009, where he lived until his passing.

In addition to his loving wife Bonnie, Dr. Richard Klein is survived by a son, Scott (Nikki) Klein; daughter, Lauren (Terry) Stroops; three granddaughters, Madison, Lexi, and Kensington; and his beloved dog, Chase.

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WAYNE ALAN KNAPKE, DVM Dr. Wayne Knapke, 52, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away suddenly at his home on Wednesday, April 1, 2015. He was an active member of the FVMA and the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society, and he served on the Animal Health Committee of the Jacksonville Zoo. Dr. Knapke was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and was raised in Williamsburg. He graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1984, with a BS degree in Biology and Chemistry, and received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University in 1988.

He owned and practiced veterinary medicine at Oceanview Veterinary Hospital in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, for 23 years. His special professional interests included veterinary dentistry, soft tissue surgery, internal medicine, and exotics.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Knapke, and is survived by his mother, Emma M. (Wuest) Knapke; fiancé, Lilian Rodriguez; brothers, David C. Knapke (Patty) and Mark L. Knapke (Marcia); sister, Jody A. Eaton (Robert); nephews, Michael R. Knapke (Heidi), Daniel C. Knapke (Ainsley) and David B. Eaton; niece, Samantha M. Eaton; and uncle, William Knapke (Denise). He is also survived by his beloved dogs, Millie and Keon, and his cat, Juneau.

Friends and family gathered on Thursday, April 9, 2015, for a Memorial Service at St. Paul's by the Sea Episcopal Church in Jacksonville Beach.

CHARLES L. NOWLIN, DVM Dr. Charles Langdale Nowlin passed away February 20, 2015, at the age of 94.

He was a life member of the FVMA and an honorary member of the AVMA. He was also a member of the Military Officers of America Association, the Burma Star Association, and the Auburn Alumni Association. He was a former member of the Oakland Terrace Men’s Club, Panama City Exchange Club, Panama City Rotary Club, St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club and the Panama City Amateur Radio Club.

Born in Pensacola, Florida on March 29, 1920, Dr. Nowlin graduated from the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation, he entered the army veterinary service, giving care to army and coast guard animals in Texas, including the army’s last horse-mounted cavalry.

Overseas, Dr. Nowlin was decorated three times for service in WWII combat, when he cared for pack animals of an American Ranger battalion in Burma. He also saw service in China.

Following his active duty service, Dr. Nowlin remained in the reserves and was retired as a lieutenant colonel, and went on to practice veterinary medicine in Panama City for 40 years. He served twelve years on the Panama City Housing Authority, and also served on the vestries of Holy Nativity Episcopal Church and St. Andrews Episcopal Church.

Dr. Nowlin is survived by daughters, Kathryn Bethea and her husband William of Port St. Lucie, Florida, Susanne Mezzanotte and her husband Hugo of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Mary Jo Myers and her husband, Stephen of Panama City Beach. He is also survived by grandchildren, Lauren Garren of Leesburg, Virginia, Allison Stanley of Alexandria, Virginia, Lindsey Horton, Alex Giglio, and Ross Giglio of Raleigh North Carolina, Stephen Myers of Boston, Massachusetts, and Jordan Myers of Atlanta, Georgia, and six great grandchildren.

www.fvma.org | 5

Meet Our

New Officers & Executive Board members Dr. Richard M. Carpenter Installed As FVMA PRESIDENT

R

ichard M. Carpenter, DVM of Fort Myers, Florida, was installed as President of the FVMA at the FVMA Annual Awards and Officer Installation Ceremony held during the FVMA’s 86th Annual Conference in Orlando.

Dr. Carpenter is a small animal practitioner, and he operates the Animal Clinic at Kelly Crossing of Fort Myers with his wife Kristina "Buttons" Carpenter. The full-service small animal hospital has a dedicated staff with a combined sixty years of experience caring for animals.

Dr. Carpenter graduated from Iowa State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1974, and he practiced in Iowa after graduation until 1986. He relocated at that time to take a position as Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia Medical School.

Dr. & Mrs. Carpenter established his first practice in Fort Myers in 1997. The Animal Clinic at Kelly Crossing offers wellness care, dental care, surgical services, radiology services, geriatric care, diagnostic testing and other services.

Dr. Carpenter joined the FVMA Executive Board in 2010, as District 7 Representative, and has served on the Association’s Veterinary Assistant/Technician Certification Committee, UFCVM Admissions Committee, and Farm Animal Welfare Task Force.

He has also made time to be of service to his local VMA, as a member and officer of the Caloosa Veterinary Medical Society of Lee County for the past 18 years.

Dr. Carpenter, along with the Caloosa VMS, organize and host the Peter Piper Memorial Continuing Education Conference, held annually on Sanibel Island, which was successfully held for its 39th year in 2014.

Dr. RICHARD SUTLIFF Installed As FVMA PRESIDENT-ELECT

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he Florida Veterinary Medical Association has installed Dr. Richard Sutliff of Jacksonville, as president-elect on its executive board. Up to his election, Dr. Sutliff was serving his second term as District 2 Representative on the board.

His installation came during the Annual Awards Ceremony and Installation of Officers which was held on Friday, April 10, in conjunction with the FVMA’s 86th Annual Conference. The conference took place on the weekend of April 9 to 12, at the Buena Vista Palace Hotel and Spa in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

Dr. Sutliff boasts a storied journey that led him to serving the veterinary profession on the FVMA Executive Board since 2010.

He served as the secretary of the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society from 2004 to 2007, vice president from 2007-2008, and president from 2008-2009.

He studied organic chemistry and animal science at New College in Sarasota and Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky. He worked in the insurance industry after graduation as an insurance underwriter specializing in equine mortality insurance and farm owners insurance for seven years. He also spent four years as a risk specialist for a specialized government

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contractor and two years as an emergency veterinar y technician/adjunct college instructor at the University of Northern Florida.

Dr. Sutliff graduated with honors in 1999, from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. He spent two years practicing medicine in Chicago before returning to Jacksonville in 2001. He purchased the Scott Mill Animal Hospital in 2003, which he and his wife Kay have operated since then.

Dr. Sutliff was awarded the FVMA Gold Star Award in 2013.

rpenter & Dr. Richard Ca

an

Dr. Richard Sutliff & Dr. Jerry Rayburn

Dr. Don Morg

Dr. MARC A. PRESNELL

Dr. Marta Lista & Dr. M arc Presnell

Installed As District 3 Representative

Dr. Marc Presnell was installed to serve a second term as District 3 Representative on the FVMA Executive Board. He was first elected to serve in 2012.

District 3, Central, covers Lake, Seminole, Orange, Osceola and Polk counties. There are four local associations in District 3, the Central Florida VMA, Indian River VMA, Ridge Veterinary Society, and Lake County VMA. Dr. Presnell is the responsible veterinarian at Santa Fe Animal Hospital in Lakeland, Polk County.

The hospital serves clients in Lakeland, Winter Haven and Auburndale. He assumed the practice in 1996, but has been a practicing veterinarian since 1986.

Dr. Presnell graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. He served on the FVMA Budget and Finance Committee from 2004-2012. He is active in the Ridge Veterinary Medical Society, and has served as its secretary.

Dr. Presnell was awarded the FVMA Gold Star Award in 2009.

Dr. MARTA LISTA

Installed As District 6 Representative

Dr. Marta Lista is the new District 6, South Florida Representative on the FVMA Executive Board.

Dr. Lista was elected on the retirement of Dr. Ronald Todd.

District 6 covers Broward, Collier, Dade and Monroe counties, and local associations in the district include Broward VMA, South Florida VMA, and Collier County Veterinary Society.

Dr. Lista was the FVMA's Emerging Leader Representative at the AVMA’s 2015 Veterinary Leadership Conference held in January. She has been a member of the FVMA since 2001, and a strong advocate for the veterinary profession and animal rights in her community.

Born and raised in Miami, Dr. Lista earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida in 2000, and her B.S. from the University of Miami in 1996.

She is past president of the South Florida VMA and a member of the board of directors of the South Florida Veterinary Foundation. She currently serves as the head of the Legislative Task Force in her district.

The task force worked in 2013, with the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, to institute the board’s partnership with local veterinarians to implement the county’s No-Kill Legislation.

Dr. Lista operates Trail Animal Hospital, a full-service pet hospital in Miami. www.fvma.org | 7

FVMA PRIORITY LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE PASSES

AND IS AWAITING GOVERNOR SCOTT’S SIGNATURE FVMA Priority Legislation, HB 1049 Practice of Pharmacy, was passed in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, April 28. Its companion bill in the Senate, SB 1180, was passed earlier, then HB 1049 was taken up in the House, passed and sent to Governor Rick Scott for signing. Once signed, the bill

Upon Signing, Florida Veterinarians Will Be Able to Dispense Compounded Medications to Their Patients’ Owners and Caretakers becomes law effective July 1, 2015, and Florida veterinarians will be able to dispense compounded medications.

The passage of HB 1049 is a significant legislative victory for the members of the FVMA and the veterinary medical profession in Florida. It is also a great achievement for the FVMA, who with an alliance of key bill sponsors, its team of lobbyists, the FVMA Legislative Committee, and coalition partners, took up the challenge of correcting an unintended consequence of a recent Board of Pharmacy regulation.

As the bill progressed through the legislative process, it faced significant opposition. However, the FVMA was steadfast in its intent to reinstitute Florida veterinarians’ ability to dispense compounded medications to their patients’ owners and caretakers, to ensure uninterrupted care.

The Florida House passed HB 1049 just before ending its 2015 Legislative Session in Tallahassee. Of the 1751 bills filed 8 | FVMA ADVOCATE

this Session, only 140 or 8%, went to the Governor. One of the 8% was the FVMA’s 2015 Legislative Priorities.

House Statistics at Session Conclusion 871 House Bills Filed 880 Senate Bills Filed 268 House Bills Passed House 177 Senate Bills Passed Senate 140 Bills Passed Both Chambers and Sent to Governor* 81 House Bills to Governor 59 Senate Bills to Governor

Background Dispensing compounded medication to patients to ensure uninterrupted and successful treatment outcomes, has been the standard practice of veterinary medicine in Florida for more than a century.

In June 2014, the Florida Board of Pharmacy implemented a rule change that inadvertently placed restrictions on veterinarians’ ability to fully utilize compounded drugs for office use and dispensing to their patients’ owners or caretakers.

This was not the intention of the Board of Pharmacy, and they fully supported the FVMA legislative initiative to permit veterinarians to utilize medication according to the Veterinary Practice Act. The Board of Pharmacy rule, while unintentional, severely impaired Florida veterinarians’ ability to care for their patients.

An FVMA survey of members on the issue, revealed that 99% of veterinarians viewed having access to compounded medications when they are necessary, as important or very important to their practice, and 98% said being able to dispense compounded medication from office stock had a positive or very positive impact on their patient’s health and medical outcomes.

A fix of the Board of Pharmacy’s rule therefore, became the FVMA’s focus during the 2015 Legislative Session.

Unwavering in its commitment to ensure a successful passage of its Priority Legislation, and securing committed bill sponsors in Tallahassee, its lobbying team and a coalition of partners, the Association’s hard work paid great dividends at the final hour.

Affect

their patients in the course of their professional practice as provided for by the Veterinary Practice Act. The bill was engrossed and enrolled on April 29, 2015, and is awaiting the governor’s signature to become law. The 2015 Session officially ended at 11:59 pm on Friday, May 1, 2015.

This has been a great Session for the FVMA. This year, the House abruptly ended its Session three days early, much to the surprise of the Florida Senate. The Senate remained

Upon becoming law, HB 1049 will: • Align Florida’s Pharmacy Regulations with the established standards of the practice of veterinary medicine.

• Reestablish licensed veterinarians’ ability to dispense compounded medication to their patients’ owners or caregivers that will ensure successful treatment outcomes.

• Fix the unintended consequences imposed on the practice of veterinary medicine when the Florida Board of Pharmacy amended its rules in June, 2014.

Conclusion This Session will go down once again as being a very successful Session for the Florida Veterinary Medical Association. The passage of HB 1049 Practice of Pharmacy

by Representative Peters is a clear indication of the good work of the bill sponsors and the strong efforts of the coalition that worked all Session to pass this bill.

Over the course of the past few years, the FVMA has matured as the voice for veterinary medicine in Florida.

Legislators this Session sought the FVMA’s advice on matters before the House and Senate that may have had an impact on veterinary medicine.

The FVMA has developed a strong grass roots strategy, and it has served the Association well. Under the solid leadership of the Executive Board, FVMA Legislative Committee and Executive Director, in tandem with the FVMA’s lobbying team, the Association has been an effective voice in Tallahassee for its members.

HB 1049 is a fix to unintended consequences of a rule implemented by the Board of Pharmacy. It ensures that veterinarians can continue the long-standing practice of administering and dispensing compounded medications for

in Tallahassee and asked the House to reconvene, which they refused. Many important issues on the calendar died therefore, and the lowest number of bills in the past 20 years was passed. The FVMA was successful with its legislative agenda however, making it a second consecutive year of success for the Association in Tallahassee. As many bills take two to three years to pass, the FVMA’s success is truly one to celebrate!

The FVMA is proud of its leadership team, lobbyists Mixon and Associates, members who attended Legislative Action Days in March, and coalition partners, Wedgewood Pharmacy, Pet Health Pharmacy, Veterinary Pharmacies of America, Diamondback Pharmacy, and US Compounding, who worked hard to get this issue up and passed this Session. A special thank you to Marcy Bliss, President of Wedgewood Pharmacy, who worked late nights and weekends with Executive Director Phil Hinkle and the Mixons, to ensure Florida Veterinarians the ability to dispense compounded medications.

Greatest thanks to bill sponsors and champions for veterinary medicine, Senator Jack Latvala and Representative Kathleen Peters! www.fvma.org | 9

President’s Award Senator Jack Latvala was bestowed with the FVMA President’s Award on April 10, at the FVMA Annual Awards Ceremony and r al a Officer Installation SenatLoa v t Jack which took place at the Association’s 86th Annual Conference held at the Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

The State Senator for District 20, Senator Latvala has been a steadfast friend to the veterinary profession, and has championed veterinary medicine’s causes in the Senate. He has given unwavering support over the years through sponsorship and advocacy as a legislator, for issues that are important to Florida’s veterinarians.

FVMA President Don Morgan made the presentation on behalf of the FVMA Executive Board and membership, pointing out that the award honors Senator Latvala for his support of the profession, his service to the Citizens of Florida, and for his commitment which safeguards the health and welfare of the animals of Florida.

He said the Senator was a true advocate for small business and “had opened many doors for veterinarians and the FVMA in Tallahassee.”

In accepting the award, Senator Latvala expressed appreciation to the FVMA for the recognition, and he thanked the Association for its friendship and support. “Veterinarians are a great group,” said the Senator, concluding that he is “happy to help anytime.”

Senator Latvala’s relationship with the FVMA and support go back 20 years, when he helped to achieve a major

milestone for veterinarians with the repeal of records exemption, which prevented vaccination, license and rabies certificate records from being harvested by marketers. Recently, in 2014, the senator was the driving force behind the passage of legislation which reinstated tax-exempt status for therapeutic veterinary diets.

He sponsored SB 1180, Practice of Pharmacy, the Senate's companion bill HB 1049 which was passed in the House of Representative in April 28, 2015. The bill was made to allow veterinarians to dispense compounded medications to patients, a practice that had been in place for many years until a new rule by the Board of Pharmacy required Florida veterinarians to sign an agreement with compounding pharmacies when ordering compounded medications, not to dispense said medications to their clients. A veterinarian’s ability to dispense compounded medications to clients is a critical aspect of the practice of veterinary medicine.

Senator Latvala was first elected to the Senate in 1994, and served until 2002. He was reelected in 2010, and in 2014.

He was awarded FVMA Legislator of the Year in 2012. He is the Chairman of the Pinellas Legislative Delegation, and serves on the Pinellas Sports Authority and the Palm Harbor Community Services Agency.

As the member for District 20 in the Florida Senate, his committee assignments include: Chair, Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development; Appropriations; Commerce and Tourism; Government Oversight and Accountability; Regulated Industries; and Rules.

Legislator of the Year Award Representative Kathleen Peters was awarded FVMA Legislator of the Year on April 10, during the FVMA Annual Awards Ceremony and Officer Installation that took place in conjunction with the Association’s 86th Annual Conference. Held at the Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, the four-day conference ran from April 9–12, 2015.

The FVMA honored State Representative Peters for championing the cause of the FVMA in the Florida House of Representatives during the 2015 legislative session. She was the sponsor of HB 1049, Practice of Pharmacy, which allows for veterinarians to administer and/or dispense a compounded medication to patients.

On bestowing the Legislator of the Year Award, FVMA President Don Morgan thanked Representative Peters for appreciating the importance of this aspect of veterinary care to veterinarians in the state of Florida, and for acting to enable veterinarians to provide the best care for their patients.

Kathleen Peters is the Representative for District 69 in the Florida House of Representatives. From South Pasadena, Pinellas County, Representative Peters is a public affairs professional with 10 | FVMA ADVOCATE

an academic background in human development.

She previously held public office by serving in local tive government. She was elected in presentan M. Peters e R 2008, to the South Pasadena City Kathlee Commission, and was elected to serve as Mayor from 2009-2012. Her election to the House of Representative was in 2012, and subsequently in 2014.

Representative Peters is the Vice Chairman of the Children, Families and Seniors Subcommittee of the House, and also serves on the Economic Affairs Committee, Justice Appropriations Subcommittee, Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee and Transportation and Ports Subcommittee.

She is active in the Rotary Club of St. Petersburg, the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce, and was a member of the South Pasadena Planning and Zoning Board, from 2006-2008.

In

Grateful Appreciation

for

F VM A 2 0 1 5 AWARD H onorees distinguished service to Veterinary Medicine

Distinguished Service Dr. Russell J. Snyder is a two-time recipient of the FVMA Gold Star Award, and he received the FVMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001. He is also a past president of the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society (JVMS) and has been closely affiliated with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UFCVM).

Dr. Snyder has been a member of the FVMA since the early 1960's, and served on the executive board as the District 2 Representative, and on the FVMA Budget Snyder Dr. Russell J. and Finance Committee.

He was instrumental in the planning of UFCVM, and today remains an active advocate for the school. He has undertaken various committee appointments, including the Long Range Planning Committee, UFCVM Admissions Committee and UFCVM Advisory Committee on which he continues to serve for 25 years.

Dr. Snyder operated Snyder Animal Hospital, P.A. in Jacksonville for 43 years. He also served in active duty as a captain in the Veterinary Corps of the United States Army.

Dr. Richard Sutliff nominated Dr. Snyder along with the JVMS, and described the example he set for the veterinary profession by his distinguished service, saying: “Each meeting of the JVMS saw Dr. Snyder offering guidance either in parliamentary procedure, Robert’s rules, community perception, and other areas that allowed his wisdom to be shared throughout the North East Florida Veterinary Community.”

We share a message from Dr. Snyder below, on receiving the FVMA Distinguished Service Award.

“I would like to thank the FVMA for this honor and recognition. I was fortunate to have made the decision to become a veterinarian when in the 9th grade in high school. From there on I had a goal to focus on.

I received my BS degree and my veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

I practiced my entire veterinary career in a small animal hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. In the mid 1970's I decided to become active in the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society and later in the FVMA. Through my connection with the FVMA I supported the establishment of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida.

I felt a genuine obligation to give back to the profession that had been so good to me. I have accomplished so much more in life than I ever dreamed I would. Throughout my career of 57 years as a veterinarian, I had the support of my wife and family. I could not expect anything more from them than they gave me."

2015 Award

Honorees

Award 2015 Honorees

CVT of the YEAR

CVT of the YEAR

Amanda G. Bouton, CVT

Amanda Bouton of Jacksonville, Florida is the practice manager at Hidden Hills Animal Hospital.

She also functions as a staff information meeting specialist, and meets and shares regularly with other hospital staff members throughout Northeastern Florida.

Mrs. Bouton has practiced as a CVT for 10 years. As practice manager at Hidden Hills, she handles the day-to-day operations of the practice, maintaining and motivating the healthcare team to provide the best in patient care.

She provides leadership at her workplace and in her profession. She has served on the board of directors of Sanford-Brown Veterinary Technician Program, and currently sits on the board of directors of Heritage College of Veterinary Technicians.

She also shares her talents working for children. Since 2013, after a mission trip through her church to an orphanage in Haiti, she has lead another mission trip to Haiti, and currently sits on the mission’s

board of directors.

She and her husband Chris are foster parents to four children, who along with their two sons, make life at home as busy as her professional one.

team member of the YEAR

Denise Reed

Denise Reed is a valued technician at the Animal Clinic at Kelly Crossing in Fort Meyers, Florida. Her employers describe her as having a joyous personality with great people skills.

As an “invaluable” member of the team at Kelly Crossing, Ms. Reed participates in all aspects of the operation of the practice.

She has worked in the veterinary field since 1998, as a veterinary assistant technician. She is credited with having great people skills and was commended by Clinic Director, Dr. Richard Carpenter, for her commitment to the best care and treatment of patients.

Assuming a role as teacher and mentor, she shares with other staff members, and she assists the local CVT veterinary technology program as a mentor to students who frequent the Animal Clinic at Kelly Crossing as part of their course of study.

Citizen of the YEAR Donald “Don” Thompson lives in Valrico, Florida, and works as a practice manager and as executive director of the Hillsborough Animal Health Foundation (HAHF).

His work engages him in issues relating to the health and welfare of animals in Hillsborough County, the education of the pet owning public about caring for their pets, and advocacy on behalf of the veterinary profession.

Mr. Don Thompson has been very involved in the Trap Neuter Release (TNR) debate at the local level, but he has also represented veterinarians on the state level for the FVMA in Tallahassee on multiple occasions. He was instrumental in creating the AWAKE! Campaign that included TENVAC (TrapEvaluate-Neuter-Vaccinate and Contain) as an alternative to traditional TNR. Donald A. As the Executive Director of HAHF, he organizes and assists with HAHF’s “Pit Bull Vaccination Thompson, jd, CVPM Day” where hundreds of pit bulls from low-income areas are examined, vaccinated and micro-chipped.

He recently headed a new pilot charitable hospital project, Vets 4 Pets, which opened in January.

The charitable hospital provides spays, neuters and basic veterinary services to low-income-verified citizens and rescue groups in Hillsborough County. Its focus is on decreasing pet overpopulation, and education for low-income citizens in the community about zoonotic diseases that can affect their health. www.fvma.org | 13

Gold Star Gregory D. BonenClark, DVM, DACVS Gregory BonenClark, DVM currently serves on the FAEP Council.

He was the 2012 FAEP President.

Dr. BonenClark was instrumental in the successful merger in 2011, of the FVMA and the FAEP. The positive and powerful alliance forged with the merger makes it possible for Florida to continue to be a premier provider of equine-exclusive education in the South East.

His service to the veterinary profession extends to the next generation of veterinary medicine practitioners, as he is closely involved in the planning and implementation of the FAEP Student Appreciation Day, held in Ocala.

Dr. BonenClark founded Equine Sports Practitioners several years ago and has been instrumental in the creation of Florida Equine Veterinary Associates, LLC of Ocala. He is a board certified surgeon specializing in lameness and performance issues.

Anjanette Cabeza, DVM Dr. Anjanette “Anjie” Cabeza was a key player in ensuring veterinarians had a role in determining the direction and implementation of the 2013 Miami-Dade No-Kill Legislation.

She addressed the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners and urged them to reconsider a plan to build new veterinary facilities for spay-neuter services, and instead allow private practice veterinary hospitals to provide these services to the county.

Along with colleagues of the South Florida Veterinary Medical Association (SFVMA), Dr. Cabeza successfully convinced the Commissioners to fund private practice spay-neuter services, which would also provide support to local Humane Society and Animal Services Department programs.

Dr. Cabeza has 20 years of experience in small animal medicine and surgery, and owns Doral Centre Animal Hospital. She 14 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Award Recipients

is also founder of the Cabeza Foundation, which provides financial assistance to pet owners whose pets have life-threatening conditions, but can return to normal function with the appropriate care.

Rick Diaz, DVM

Dr. Rick Diaz was one of the SFVMA’s task force members that were involved in informing Miami-Dade County Commissioners that veterinarians in that county were the key to the successful implementation of the county’s No-Kill Legislation.

Dr. Diaz, along with his fellow veterinarians successfully convinced commissioners on how to reduce euthanasia numbers in the community through a collaboration with private care practitioners, thereby demonstrating the importance of grassroots advocacy in the protection and strengthening of the veterinary profession.

He graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, and worked for a year at a local hospital in Miami, before establishing The Pet Care Clinic of Doral in 1992.

Dr. Diaz is the past president of the SFVMA and has been on its board of directors since 2003.

Robert H. Encinosa, DVM Dr. Robert H. “Bob” Encinosa, is an outstanding leader in the veterinary profession.

He has served on several FVMA committees, and volunteers as a member of the FVMA mentoring panel that meets with students at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine to provide information and advice to assist with their transitioning from the classroom to the exam room.

He is the current President of the Hillsborough County Veterinary Medical Society.

Dr. Encinosa operates Boyette Animal Hospital in Riverview. In addition to his busy schedule caring for patients, he is a member of the school advisory committees for Boyette Springs Elementary and Riverview High Schools, the UFCVM Advisory Council, is a member of the Dean’s Circle of Excellence, the Veterinary Management Group Executive Committee, and the Recruitment Chair, Founder and Caretaker of the Boyette Springs Elementary School Nature Preserve, as well as, the Medical Director of C.A.R.E. Animal Shelter in Ruskin, Florida.

Amanda M. House, DVM, DACVIM Dr. Amanda House is a past president of the FAEP, and she currently represents the FAEP on the Executive Board of the FVMA. She is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the College of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Florida.

A large animal medicine clinician in the university’s equine hospital, she coordinates equine continuing education and outreach programs at the College, and is also the Director of the Practice-Based Equine Clerkship Program and the Equine Research Program. Dr. House became board certified in large animal internal medicine in 2005.

Her professional interests include neonatology, infectious disease, and preventative health care.

Dr. House is active on committees for the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Rachel Klemawesch, DVM Dr. Klemawesch is the District 4 Representative on the FVMA Executive Board, comprised of Hernando, Citrus, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Sumter Counties in West Central Florida. She has served on several FVMA committees and is currently on the Animal Welfare Committee.

She is past president of the Pinellas

County Veterinary Medical Association, and serves on the board of directors of the Pinellas Animal Foundation.

Dr. Klemawesch holds two degrees from Auburn University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Language (German), graduating Cum Laude in 1992, and then she received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1996, from the university’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

She is presently Medical Director and Associate Veterinarian at Northeast Animal Hospital in St. Petersburg.

Marta Lista, DVM Dr. Marta Lista is past president of the SFVMA and currently serves as the head of the Legislative Task Force in her district. The task force worked in 2013, with the MiamiDade Board of County Commissioners to institute the board’s partnership with local veterinarians to implement the county’s No-Kill Legislation.

Dr. Lista was Florida’s 2015 emerging leader, and represented the FVMA at the 2015 AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference in January.

Dr. Marta Lista has been a member of the FVMA since 2001. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida in 2000, and her B.S. from the University of Miami in1996.

Born and raised in Miami, Dr. Lista was selected by the Dean of the University of Florida as one of two practicing veterinarians in the state of Florida to serve on the College of Veterinary Medicine Admissions Committee.

Anne Moretta, VMD, MS Dr. Anne Moretta is past president of the FAEP and has been a dedicated steward of the FAEP and advocate for the veterinary profession, as a member of the FAEP

Council.

She has shown selfless commitment to the successful execution of CE programs for equine veterinarians and team members, and is the driving force behind the publication of the FAEP’s equine-exclusive journal, The Practitioner.

With over 30 years of diversified

equine experience, Dr. Moretta offers a comprehensive, whole horse approach in caring for the equine athlete. She is internationally trained in advanced equine acupuncture and uses a complementary approach to maintain comfort and soundness.

Dr. Moretta has a background as a professional hunter/jumper rider, owner, trainer and breeder of sport horses, including Hanoverians. She travels nationally and internationally as a consultant on various aspects of equine sports medicine.

James L. Mosley, DVM Dr. James L. Mosley has been actively involved in the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society and has served as its president. He has worked to promote veterinary medicine to the public as a practicing veterinarian at Mandarin Animal Hospital, which he owns and operates in Jacksonville.

He began working in the field of veterinary medicine at the age of 16, after spending a childhood loving animals and working with them at fairs and in riding events.

Dr. Mosley attended the University of North Florida before enrolling at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine for his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine which he received in 2008.

In veterinary school, he earned a number of honors, which included membership in Phi Zeta Society, the Elsevier Small Animal Surgery Award (judged by the faculty to have the best psychomotor skills in small animal surgery), the Clarence and Lucille Dee Scholarship, and he graduated Magna Cum Laude.

His areas of particular professional interest include surgery, dentistry, dermatology and internal medicine.

Suzan C. Oakley, DVM, DABVP (Equine), Certified Member ISELP

Dr. Suzan C. Oakley is an equine veterinary professional who has been an FVMA member since graduating from the

University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 1991.

She is past president of the FAEP, and remains on the Council, where she lends her expertise in planning and executing equine-exclusive CE programs that attract equine veterinarians from across the US and around the world.

Dr. Oakley travels regionally and nationally to provide specialist level sports medicine and diagnostic services. She currently divides her time among her busy clinical practice carried out in Orlando, Ocala and Wellington, national speaking engagements, and instructing veterinarians in advanced ultrasound techniques. She is one of ten certified members of the International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology (ISELP) in the United States.

Dr. Oakley values being adjunct professor in the Practice Based Equine Clerkship program of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, which keeps her in touch with students and enables the exchange of new ideas.

Maria Oliveira, DVM Dr. Maria Oliveira advocated for the veterinary profession when she and her colleagues, Drs. Lista, Cabeza, and Diaz, successfully persuaded the Miami-Dade County Commission to institute a partnership with local veterinarians in the implementation of the county’s No-Kill Legislation.

Ever since she was a little girl in the Dominican Republic, Maria Oliveira wanted to heal animals. She operates South Miami Animal Clinic, an animal hospital for dogs and cats, which provides boarding, dental care, surgery, ultra sounds, and pharmacy services.

Dr. Oliveira’s clients place a lot of confidence in her as their trusted veterinarian. “There's no one I would trust with my best friend's life more than Dr. Oliveira,” says one of the many glowing online reviews about the service she provides.

www.fvma.org | 15

The 86th FVMA Annual Conference APRIL 9-12, 2015

HIGHLIGHTS

The Buena Vista Palace Hotel and Spa welcomed the FVMA and more than a thousand participants from April 09 to April 12, 2015, for the 86th FVMA Annual Conference.

Once again, Florida veterinarians and their colleagues from other states, team members, students, and exhibitors came together and enjoyed a dynamic continuing education conference that was presented by our distinguished speakers and wet lab instructors.

The vibrant Exhibit Hall presented a lively setting

where veterinary practice owners, managers, veterinarians and other attendees gathered to see and hear about the newest innovations and services in the veterinary supply industry from the top companies in the field. Some 100 industry exhibits were on display; and very special events and ceremonies brought veterinary team members from across the state and other destinations, local and national leadership of organized veterinary medicine, industry partners and other guests of the 86th Annual Conference together during the weekend to make the conference a great experience.

ogram The Scientific Pr

More than 40 acclaimed speakers delivered a world-class scientific program of 270 hours of stimulating lectures, wet labs and workshops.

A full day of wet labs on Thursday, April 9, was followed on Friday Saturday and Sunday with stimulating general sessions, more wet labs and workshops. Designed for the entire veterinary team, the weekend of sessions was exciting and enriching. Veterinarians earned a total of 28 hours of quality CE, while team members earned 24 hours.

The 86th FVMA Annual Conference Exhibit Hall provided exhibitors and attendees with a great opportunity for networking. A hundred colorful booth spaces brought the Exhibit Hall alive as attendees used up every opportunity to visit, sample and speak with company representatives about their products and services. Vibrant and fun, attendees took part in the Cover-All Bingo as they vied for a prize in the raffle, and displayed excellent tossing skills at the Wine Toss to benefit the FVMA Foundation.

The exhibit hall A main highlight of the Exhibit Hall was the TGIF exhibitor-sponsored reception held on Friday, April 10, during which the FVMA held a short ceremony to present industry awards of appreciation to seven industry partners, Boehringer-Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., Elanco, Merial, Ltd, MWI Veterinary Supply, Roadrunner Pharmacy, Virbac Animal Health, and Zoetis, who supported the Association’s 2015 Membership Renewal and Retention Campaign with products, valued wholesale, at $650,000.

World-class Continuing Education for every member of the V eterinary T eam

16 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Special Act ivities Closing the Gap The FVMA hosted a complimentary networking lunch for students of UFCVM which was followed immediately by the Closing the Gap Roundtable, which brought together students and professionals in a unique forum for a stimulating exchange of information from established veterinarians to those soon to begin their transition from the classroom to the exam room.

FVMA Foundation Benefit Reverse Raffle & Auction 200 eager conference attendees were present for the first Reverse Raffle and Auction held to aid the FVMA Foundation, making this inaugural event a resounding success. Themed, “An Evening in the Tropics,” Saturday evening proved to be relaxing, enjoyable and of great benefit to the Foundation. Proceeds all went to the FVMA Foundation to continue to support programs that enhance the veterinary profession in Florida.

More than $5,000 in cash was raffled, and valuable items donated by supporters from industry were auctioned off in an exciting and fun atmosphere of friendship and celebration.

Disney Character Breakfast Sunday morning’s complimentary Disney Character Breakfast where guests were joined by favorite Disney characters, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto was a fitting end to the special activities at the 86th FVMA Annual Conference. Guests were delightfully entertained and made use of the unique opportunity to socialize and take pictures with their favorite Disney characters.

www.fvma.org | 17

T G 2 A0 V1 C5 Your Invitation to Attend

Featuring a scientific program that includes the latest information and advancements in veterinary medicine – interactive CE with a full day of cutting-edge, hands-on wet labs on Thursday, and other labs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to enrich every member of the veterinary team.

Planned Wet labs & Workshops ■ Abdominal Ultrasound ■ PERIODONTAL SURGERY ■ SOFT TISSUE Surgery ■ Ophthalmic Surgery ■ REHABILITATION & Laser Therapy ■ The Neurological Examination ■ Dental Techniques ■ Cytology ■ DENTAL EXTRACTION ■ ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY ■ Culture & Sensitivity

lecture topics ■ Surgery ■ Dermatology ■ Practice Management ■ Oncology ■ Clinical Pathology ■ Gastroenterology ■ Emergency & Critical Care ■ Neurology ■ urology ■ Ophthalmology ■ Dentistry

■ Avian medicine ■ Internal Medicine ■ Rabbit Medicine ■ Behavior ■ Cardiology ■ Orthopedics ■ Tech Anesthesia ■ Cytology ■ Tech Medicine ■ Dentistry for Techs ■ Poultry

For Florida Veterinarians: ■ Dispensing Legend Drugs ■ Laws & Rules Governing the Practice of Veterinary Medicine

29 Gulf-Atlantic Veterinary Conference 01 the 3rd Annual

October November

distinguished Speakers

Boca Raton, FLorida

Experience the Difference

Rick Alleman DVM, Ph.D., DABVP & DACVP

Wade Gingerich DVM, DAVDC

Meghan Herron DVM, DACVB

Christopher Smithson DVM, DAVDC

Debbie Boone BS, CCS, CVPM

Jason Arble DVM, MSc, DACVR

Peter Kintzer DVM, DACVIM

Andrew Specht DVM, DACVIM

Valerie A. Fadok DVM, PhD, DACVD

Denis Marcellin-Little DEDV, DACVS, DECVS, DACVSMR

Robert L. Swinger DVM, DACVO

Eric Garcia IT & Digital Marketing Consultant

Denise Rollings CVT, VTS (Dentistry)

Todd R. Tams DVM, DACVIM

Mary Gardner DVM

Michael Schaer DVM, DACVIM, DACVECC

Jason Wernli AllyDVM, Inc.

Howard B. Seim III DVM, DACVS

Ann Wortinger BIS, LVT, VTS (ECC, SAIM, Nutrition)

A Spooktacular Reverse Raffle And Auction

a positively defrightful evening NO TRICKS-JUST TREATS -Eat, Drink and be Scary

Dinner, Dancing & Treats – Door Prizes, Live Auction, 50/50 Raffle, And The Reverse Raffle Which Gives Away The Biggest Treat Of The Night - $2,500 In Cash!!

Come as you aren't and win the best costume prize!!

In Grateful Appreciation the members and leadership of the FVMA, SINCERELY THANK OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS for their invaluable contributions to the continued growth of the Association, and for making the FVMA’s yearly Membership Recruitment and Retention Campaign successful.

The FVMA Membership Recruitment and Retention Campaign partners with industry in a successful program that expands outreach to veterinarians and deepens the relationship with the veterinary industry The 2015 Membership Recruitment and Retention Campaign is currently under way, and the FVMA is pleased

that at the end of March, the Association had added more than 360 new members to its ranks.

Partnering with the following companies this year, enabled the FVMA to offer free products with a wholesale value of more than six hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($650,000.00) in our membership program.

Invaluable Contributions of our Industry Partners The FVMA Extends Its Thanks for the

In Support of the 2015 Membership, Recruitment and retention Campaign

Industry's support this year provided more than $650,000 (Wholesale Value) in free product to veterinarians who renewed their membership or joined the FVMA in 2015!

witz & Jacob Yano Sean Rogers m ei -Ingleh of Boehringer

20 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Dr. Rick Sutliff & Terri Stanart of Virbac

Dr. Rick Su

tliff & Jaso

n Robbins

of MWI

More Than $650,000 Contributed By Industry Boehringer-Ingelheim

Boehringer-Ingelheim provided one tray of Bronchi-Shield ORAL (BSO) and one tray of ULTRA Duramune to each new member with a combined wholesale value of $331.00 each. The total wholesale value of Boehringer-Ingelheim’s contribution is $148,950.00.

Elanco

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This year, Elanco committed $122,804.00 of free product for all new and renewing members of the FVMA. Each new and renewing member receives one 6-pack of Trifexis or Interceptor, with a wholesale value of $56 each.

TM

Merial, Ltd.

This year, Merial contributed products for new members, with a wholesale value of $51,300.00. New members are receiving one 6-pack of NexGard and one 12-pack of Heargard valued at $114.00 wholesale.

MWI Veterinary Supply MWI Veterinary Supply donated for new members, eight free boxes of Advita Powder. They also provided one free box of 12 syringes of Advita Paste for Horses, to new equine members. Combined, MWI’s commitment totaled $55,350.00.

Roadrunner Pharmacy Roadrunner Pharmacy provided $110,000.00 wholesale value to the campaign.

For all new and renewing members, Roadrunner donated credit of $50.00 toward a new compounding prescription order.

Virbac Animal Health

Virbac Animal Health contributed product for all new and renewing members.

Their contribution is valued wholesale at $73,854.00. Members have the choice of a 6-pack of Iverhart Plus, Iverhart Max, Sentinel Flavor Tabs, or Sentinel Spectrum.

Zoetis Zoetis gave the recruitment and retention campaign product totaling $77,000.00 wholesale. From Zoetis, FVMA members receive a free pack of Cerenia, which is valued at $35.00 each.

www.fvma.org | 21

Are You Prepared For The Hurricane Season And To Operate After A Disaster?

Continuity of Operations

Do you have your updated Disaster Plan?

Veterinarians should have a written disaster preparedness plan in place for their veterinary practices. It should be readily available and executable in the event of a hurricane. The following seven basic parts are necessary in a master disaster preparedness plan: • Emergency Relocation of Animals • Medical Record Backup • Continuity of Operations • Security • General Emergency Planning • Fire Prevention • and Insurance and Legal Issues.

Emergency Relocation of Boarded and Hospitalized Animals • • • • •

Include leashes, carriers and other species-specific supplies Appropriate pre-arranged animal transportation A temporary animal holding location 24-hour client contact list which should be appropriately stored to enable off-site access Secure, weather-resistant patient identification

In conjunction with legal counsel, veterinarians should involve staff, clients and their pets in disaster planning and disaster drills, which helps to ensure community buy-in and dedication to the plan.

Medical Record Backup • • • •

Utilize off-site computer for backup of medical records Keep off-site copies of important documents Itemized inventory on- and off-site Consider digital storage of all documents as a backup

22 | FVMA ADVOCATE

During a hurricane and the days directly following, electricity may be interrupted for an indeterminate period.

• An alternate electrical power source such as a generators is important.

• Train staff in the maintenance and operation of generators • Stockpile fuel • Supplies list with 24-hour contact information for suppliers • Alternate food and water sources in case of contamination • Five-to-seven-day supply of food and water for on-site staff and patients, and five-to-seven days of personal medications for on-site staff Consider using an alternative practice location within the same vicinity. Check the local veterinary medical association for potential resources for an alternative site from which to operate if necessary. The main objective should be to lessen inconvenience to clients and being able to offer uninterrupted service. Adopting a sister practice in another location may also be useful to a practice. Using the facilities at a sister practice for a percentage of income earned also provides another avenue through which established clients can be provided with uninterrupted service.

Security of Building and Personnel • • • • • • • • • •

Contact local municipality for specific requirements Outline preferred means of reporting emergencies, including a designated person for communicating with local emergency responders Get free inspection and evacuation drills from the local fire department Water system independent from the electrical system Oxygen tanks isolated for safety Secure the practice from theft, looting and other crimes Floor plan or diagram with location of fire extinguishers, control valves, dangerous areas and unobstructed escape routes Emergency lighting A pre-arranged meeting place for staff to keep everyone accounted for Office phone-tree for communicating with staff

Don’t forget to encourage staff to be prepared at home so they can better help you in a disaster. First-aid training for employees in each work shift in the practice is essential.

The State Emergency Response Team (SERT) website, sponsored by the state of Florida, offers more useful information to assist in the preparation of a comprehensive plan.

That website is www.Floridadisaster.org.

It’s a soft chew.

Kills both fleas and ticks.

It’s prescription only.

Now a pprove d to kill m ore ticks!

NexGardTM (afoxolaner) is the protection you asked for, and patients will beg for.

NexGard is FDA-approved to kill fleas, prevent flea infestations, and kill Black-Legged (deer) ticks, Lone Star ticks and American Dog ticks. NexGard is available only with a veterinarian’s prescription, and features anti-diversion technology monitored by Pinkerton® Consulting & Investigations.

NexGard and FRONTLINE VET LABS are trademarks of Merial. ®PINKERTON is a registered trademark of Pinkerton Service Corporation. ©2014 Merial Limited, Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. NEX14TTRADEAD (06/14).

TM

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: For use in dogs only. The most common adverse reaction is vomiting. Other adverse reactions reported are dry/flaky skin, diarrhea, lethargy, and anorexia. The safe use of NexGard in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures.

Hurricane Preparation for

Florida’s Horses

The Atlantic hurricane season is upon us again from June 1 through November 30, 2015. Fortunately, 2014 was not a highly active hurricane year, and the 2015 predictions are for a below average season. What is a slower than usual hurricane season?

Federal forecasters have defined that as seven to thirteen tropical storms and three to six hurricanes for 2015. Although we certainly hope that most of the activity will remain offshore in the Atlantic, we have been very fortunate in the last several years that a major hurricane has not hit Florida. The odds may not continue in our favor for 2015, so hurricane preparation is essential! The leading causes of large animal deaths from hurricane Andrew were collapsed barns, electrocution, and kidney failure secondary to dehydration. Advanced disaster planning for your family, your pets, and your horses is crucial to minimize panic and consequences should a storm strike your area. A comprehensive disaster plan should include how to prepare before the storm, what to have available during the storm, and considerations for after the storm.

Preparation Before the Storm Season

Evacuation of flood plains and coastal areas is commonly recommended in severe storms. Be familiar with evacuation routes and facilities for horses in your area. If evacuation is recommended, plan to leave at least 72 hours in advance of the storm. If you do not own a trailer, be sure to have numbers on hand for equine transportation companies or friends who can assist in transportation and evacuation of your horses. If you have horses that may not be comfortable loading into a trailer, practicing this in advance is recommended. Ideally, locate farms or shelters where you can move your horses to before a storm.

There are excellent resources provided online at the Hurricane/ 24 | FVMA ADVOCATE

By Amanda M. House, DVM, DACVIM

Fire/Emergency Equine Evacuation Relocation database (http://evac.flahorse. com) and the Sunshine State Horse Council (http:// www.sshc.org/evac/ disaster.htm). Your county agricultural extension agent, local animal control services, and Florida’s State Agricultural Response Team may be able to provide additional resources as well.

Communication of your plans is a key component, so notify friends and neighbors of your evacuation plan, and post it at your home and farm in the event you cannot be reached. Remember that transporting livestock in trailers is dangerous in winds greater than 40 miles per hour. If sufficient time is not available for evacuation, be prepared to make your home and farm as safe as possible to wait out the storm.

Routine horse health care is essential year round, and especially as we enter into the storm and mosquito seasons. All horses should be vaccinated with tetanus toxoid, West Nile virus, eastern and western encephalitis, and rabies vaccinations. The encephalitis vaccination should be boostered approximately every 4-6 months in Florida, so if young horses were vaccinated in January or February, a booster before storm season would be indicated. Rabies and tetanus immunizations should be administered annually as well. If you will be transporting your horse to a boarding facility where they may be exposed to new horses, vaccination for equine herpes virus and influenza would also be recommended.

Coggins testing should be done annually on all Florida horses.

Infection with the equine infectious anemia virus results in lifelong persistent infection. The disease is also called “swamp fever”, because of its historical prevalence in the Gulf Coast States.

However, the number of infected horses per year is typically very small (fewer than 10 in over 100,000 Florida horses tested). All horses are required to have a negative Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) test, also called a Coggins test, within 12 months of transportation within or out of the state. The only exception to this rule is foals under 6 months of age, if they are accompanied by their dam who has a negative test within the past 12 months. The Commissioner of Agriculture has waived this requirement in the

past under extreme evacuation circumstances; however, ideally be sure all horses Coggins’ tests are up to date in the spring.

Depending on your location within Florida, a health certificate will be necessary if you are required to cross state lines for an evacuation. The Division of Animal Industry of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services offers 2 types of laminated cards, containing digital pictures of the horse, as a voluntary alternative to the paper Coggins document. The Negative EIA Test Verification Card will be accepted within the state of Florida as proof of a negative test. The card has the same expiration date as the official Coggins reporting form, but is not valid for change of ownership (original form required). The Equine Interstate Passport Card will be accepted by participating states as proof of a negative EIA test and an Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) within the previous 6 months.

The Passport Card is not valid for change of ownership. The states that honor the Florida Equine Passport Card are Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Each of your horses should be clearly identified in one or more ways prior to a hurricane, regardless of whether you are evacuating. Microchip identification has been advocated by many owners and veterinarians. Be certain to keep paperwork and numbers in an easily accessible area. A zip lock bag with the horse’s name, owner information, and farm information can be duct taped to the halter. Luggage tags with identifying information can also be braided into the mane or tail. Neck collars, leg brands, tattoos, and livestock safe non-toxic markers or paint have all been utilized for identification as well. Photos of each horse and their distinctive markings should be kept with relevant medical history, medical records, health documents, important phone numbers and owner information in an accessible area and stored in a water tight envelope or container. Be sure that all paperwork is easily accessible before a storm.

In addition to preparing your horses and your evacuation route, some important steps are also necessary for preparation of the farm. It is absolutely essentially that adequate feed and water are stored for your horses. Each horse should have 12-20 gallons of stored water per day. The minimum recommended storage would be at least enough for 72 hours, but preferably for 7 days (that is 140 gallons for one horse for a week). Garbage cans can be filled with plastic liners and filled with water, and all water buckets and troughs should be full. A generator or at least hand pump on wells is recommended. Chlorine bleach may be helpful to have on hand to add to contaminated water – 2 drops of bleach can be added per quart of water, and it should be left to stand for 30 minutes. Enough feed should also be stored for 7 days if possible. Water tight containers should be utilized for grain, and hay can be kept elevated on palates and covered with tarps. Have a first aid kit and emergency tools in a secure location before the storm (see included lists).

Movable objects on the farm should all be secured prior to a hurricane. Jump standards and cups can become dangerous projectiles in high winds during a storm. All moveable farm supplies should be stored in a closet or secure location, this would include farm equipment, jumps, chairs, and lawn furniture.

Electrical power should be turned off to the barn.

During the Storm – Pasture or Barn?

One of the leading causes of death in horses in previous hurricanes has been collapsed barns. If the pasture has good fencing, limited trees, and horses can get to high ground, they are probably best left outside during a storm. Horses should not be kept in pastures with power lines, barbed wire, or electrical fencing during a hurricane. Although well-constructed concrete barns or pole barns may provide shelter from flying debris, horses may become trapped or injured if the building collapses.

Consider evacuating your family and pets to a secure inland shelter or safe place if you are in a coastal or floodplain region.

If you are not planning to evacuate, ensure you have an adequate amount of food and water stored for your family and pets.

Flashlights, batteries, a radio, and a home disaster kit should be prepared in advance. Stay indoors during a hurricane and away from windows and glass doors. Windows and blinds should be kept closed. A small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level of your home is typically the safest place.

After the Storm

Do not go outside to inspect your horses, property, and farm until the hurricane has completely passed. The winds may become briefly calm in the eye of the storm. Once the storm is over, carefully inspect each horse for injuries over the body, head, eyes, and limbs. Walk the pastures to remove debris and make sure that no Red Maple trees, leaves, or branches have fallen in the pasture. Red Maple leaves are highly toxic to horses even in small amounts. The property should be inspected for down power lines and other storm damage. If your horse is missing, contact the local animal control officer and/or the disaster response team.

Each county in the state of Florida has an Emergency Support Function officer (ESF-17) in charge of animal and agricultural emergencies. They report to the Emergency Operations Center (County EOC) Command Officer for the county. For issues requiring support beyond the capabilities of the county, or through assistance from another county via pre-existing mutual aid agreements, the County EOC Commander will request state or higher level assistance via EM Constellation, the statewide emergency management issue tracking software.

The state level ESF-17 issues are directly handled by the state veterinarian’s office who reports to the state veterinarian Dr. Michael Short. The College of Veterinary Medicine, Florida Veterinary Medical Association, and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have formed the Florida Veterinary Corps (FVC). FVC provides a ready reserve of private Florida veterinarians and technicians ready to respond during a disaster. They respond under the immediate direction of the state veterinarian, which provides liability, medical, workers comp, etc. for these ‘unpaid employees’ of the state during mobilization.

Combined with the UF VETS Team, which has significant medical equipment and logistics support, this team provides immediate veterinary care until the community is able to stand on its own.

Early preparation is the key to successful hurricane planning.

Understanding what to do before, during, and after the storm at your home and barn will help minimize damages in the event of a storm. Have a plan for your family, pets, and all livestock.

Although we cannot control the weather, we can mitigate potential disastrous results with a responsible and well prepared plan.

Continued on Next Page

www.fvma.org | 25

Continued from Previous Page Farm First Aid and Disaster Kit: • Thermometer • Stethoscope • Scissors • Adhesive tape and duct tape • Hemostats • Leg wraps • Soap • Flashlight and extra batteries • Clippers • Latex Gloves • Bandage Materials – roll cotton, gauze pads, cling wrap, sheet cotton, etc.

• Antiseptics (Chlorahexidine, Betadine solution) • Wound dressing/ topical antibiotic • Hoof pick and knife • Phenylbutazone (Bute) and/or Banamine® • Bottles of Sterile saline • PVC pipe for splinting • Halters and lead ropes • Fly spray • Clean towels

Veterinary Hospice Lap of Love provides in-home hospice and euthanasia services to local families that want to be in the comfort of their own home during the last days or moments of their pet's life. ♥ Tampa - St. Pete ♥ Broward County ♥ Palm Beach County ♥ South Martin County ♥ Orlando ♥ Jacksonville ♥ St. Augustine ♥ Miami-Dade County ♥ Gainesville

Emergency Tools for Storm Preparation: • Hammer/nails • Fence repair materials • Wire cutters/tool box/pry bar • Fire extinguisher • Hammer/nails

CAUTION: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

Description: NEXGARD™ (afoxolaner) is available in four sizes of beef-flavored, soft chewables for oral administration to dogs and puppies according to their weight. Each chewable is formulated to provide a minimum afoxolaner dosage of 1.14 mg/lb (2.5 mg/kg). Afoxolaner has the chemical composition 1-Naphthalenecarboxamide, 4-[5[3-chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl]-4, 5-dihydro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-3-isoxazolyl]-N[2-oxo-2-[(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)amino]ethyl.

Indications: NEXGARD kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis), and the treatment and control of Black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), American Dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), and Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum) infestations in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 4 pounds of body weight or greater, for one month.

Dosage and Administration: NEXGARD is given orally once a month, at the minimum dosage of 1.14 mg/lb (2.5 mg/kg).

Dosing Schedule: Body Weight 4.0 to 10.0 lbs.

10.1 to 24.0 lbs.

24.1 to 60.0 lbs.

60.1 to 121.0 lbs.

Over 121.0 lbs.

Afoxolaner Per Chewable (mg)

Chewables Administered

11.3 One 28.3 One 68 One 136 One Administer the appropriate combination of chewables

NEXGARD can be administered with or without food. Care should be taken that the dog consumes the complete dose, and treated animals should be observed for a few minutes to ensure that part of the dose is not lost or refused. If it is suspected that any of the dose has been lost or if vomiting occurs within two hours of administration, redose with another full dose. If a dose is missed, administer NEXGARD and resume a monthly dosing schedule.

Flea Treatment and Prevention: Treatment with NEXGARD may begin at any time of the year. In areas where fleas are common year-round, monthly treatment with NEXGARD should continue the entire year without interruption.

To minimize the likelihood of flea reinfestation, it is important to treat all animals within a household with an approved flea control product.

Tick Treatment and Control: Treatment with NEXGARD may begin at any time of the year (see Effectiveness).

Contraindications: There are no known contraindications for the use of NEXGARD. Warnings: Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. In case of accidental ingestion, contact a physician immediately.

26 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Precautions: The safe use of NEXGARD in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs has not been evaluated.

Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures (see Adverse Reactions).

Adverse Reactions: In a well-controlled US field study, which included a total of 333 households and 615 treated dogs (415 administered afoxolaner; 200 administered active control), no serious adverse reactions were observed with NEXGARD. Over the 90-day study period, all observations of potential adverse reactions were recorded. The most frequent reactions reported at an incidence of > 1% within any of the three months of observations are presented in the following table. The most frequently reported adverse reaction was vomiting. The occurrence of vomiting was generally self-limiting and of short duration and tended to decrease with subsequent doses in both groups. Five treated dogs experienced anorexia during the study, and two of those dogs experienced anorexia with the first dose but not subsequent doses.

Table 1: Dogs With Adverse Reactions.

Treatment Group Afoxolaner

Oral active control

N1

% (n=415)

N2

% (n=200)

Vomiting (with and without blood)

17

4.1

25

12.5

Dry/Flaky Skin

13

3.1

2

1.0

Diarrhea (with and without blood)

13

3.1

7

3.5

Lethargy

7

1.7

4

2.0

Anorexia

5

1.2

9

4.5

1 Number of dogs in the afoxolaner treatment group with the identified abnormality.

2 Number of dogs in the control group with the identified abnormality.

In the US field study, one dog with a history of seizures experienced a seizure on the same day after receiving the first dose and on the same day after receiving the second dose of NEXGARD. This dog experienced a third seizure one week after receiving the third dose. The dog remained enrolled and completed the study. Another dog with a history of seizures had a seizure 19 days after the third dose of NEXGARD. The dog remained enrolled and completed the study. A third dog with a history of seizures received NEXGARD and experienced no seizures throughout the study.

To report suspected adverse events, for technical assistance or to obtain a copy of the MSDS, contact Merial at 1-888-637-4251 or www.merial.com/ nexgard. For additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, contact FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or online at http://www.fda.gov/ AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth.

Mode of Action: Afoxolaner is a member of the isoxazoline family, shown to bind at a binding site to inhibit insect and acarine ligand-gated chloride channels, in particular those gated by the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), thereby blocking pre- and post-synaptic transfer of chloride ions across cell membranes.

Prolonged afoxolaner-induced hyperexcitation results in uncontrolled activity of the central nervous system and death of insects and acarines. The selective toxicity of afoxolaner between insects and acarines and mammals may be inferred by the differential sensitivity of the insects and acarines’ GABA receptors versus mammalian GABA receptors.

Effectiveness: In a well-controlled laboratory study, NEXGARD began to kill fleas four hours after initial administration and demonstrated >99% effectiveness at eight hours.

In a separate well-controlled laboratory study, NEXGARD demonstrated 100% effectiveness against adult fleas 24 hours post-infestation for 35 days, and was ≥ 93% effective at 12 hours post-infestation through Day 21, and on Day 35. On Day 28, NEXGARD was 81.1% effective 12 hours post-infestation. Dogs in both the treated and control groups that were infested with fleas on Day -1 generated flea eggs at 12- and 24-hours post-treatment (0-11 eggs and 1-17 eggs in the NEXGARD treated dogs, and 4-90 eggs and 0-118 eggs in the control dogs, at 12- and 24hours, respectively). At subsequent evaluations post-infestation, fleas from dogs in the treated group were essentially unable to produce any eggs (0-1 eggs) while fleas from dogs in the control group continued to produce eggs (1-141 eggs).

In a 90-day US field study conducted in households with existing flea infestations of varying severity, the effectiveness of NEXGARD against fleas on the Day 30, 60 and 90 visits compared with baseline was 98.0%, 99.7%, and 99.9%, respectively.

Collectively, the data from the three studies (two laboratory and one field) demonstrate that NEXGARD kills fleas before they can lay eggs, thus preventing subsequent flea infestations after the start of treatment of existing flea infestations.

In well-controlled laboratory studies, NEXGARD demonstrated >94% effectiveness against Dermacentor variabilis and Ixodes scapularis, 48 hours post-infestation, and against Amblyomma americanum 72 hours post-infestation, for 30 days.

Animal Safety: In a margin of safety study, NEXGARD was administered orally to 8- to 9-week-old Beagle puppies at 1, 3, and 5 times the maximum exposure dose (6.3 mg/kg) for three treatments every 28 days, followed by three treatments every 14 days, for a total of six treatments. Dogs in the control group were sham-dosed. There were no clinically-relevant effects related to treatment on physical examination, body weight, food consumption, clinical pathology (hematology, clinical chemistries, or coagulation tests), gross pathology, histopathology or organ weights. Vomiting occurred throughout the study, with a similar incidence in the treated and control groups, including one dog in the 5x group that vomited four hours after treatment.

In a well-controlled field study, NEXGARD was used concomitantly with other medications, such as vaccines, anthelmintics, antibiotics (including topicals), steroids, NSAIDS, anesthetics, and antihistamines. No adverse reactions were observed from the concomitant use of NEXGARD with other medications.

Storage Information: Store at or below 30°C (86°F) with excursions permitted up to 40°C (104°F).

How Supplied: NEXGARD is available in four sizes of beef-flavored soft chewables: 11.3, 28.3, 68 or 136 mg afoxolaner. Each chewable size is available in color-coded packages of 1, 3 or 6 beef-flavored chewables.

NADA 141-406, Approved by FDA Marketed by: Frontline Vet Labs™, a Division of Merial Limited.

Duluth, GA 30096-4640 USA Made in Brazil.

1050-4493-02 Rev. 4/2014

™NexGard and FRONTLINE VET LABS are trademarks of Merial. ©2014 Merial. All rights reserved.

Update on

UFCVM’s Animal Technical M.Acc, CPA Rescue in Florida By DirectorDirector,JohnDisastorHaven, Response Program

As many veterinarians may know, after the terrible 2004 hurricane season, the FVMA, American Veterinary Medical Foundation, and others, contributed a lot to help the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine develop its “VETS Team” for disaster response. Combined with the Florida Veterinary Corps (which are private practitioners coordinated through the FVMA and who are willing to respond in disasters), the VETS Team gives the state considerable capability to deal with veterinary issues during disasters. What you may not realize though, is that beyond providing basic veterinary medical care with its “M*A*S*H” style team, performing infrastructure assessment, and assisting with logistical support to veterinary practices, the UF VETS team has developed a world-class animal technical rescue team with additional support from United States Equestrian Federation, American Association of Equine Practitioners, US Rider, Florida Quarter Horse Association, and others. A major overnight workshop was coordinated in Lee County in April 2013 where UF VETS, FL Vet Corps, FDACS, SARC, and federal partners totaling over 100 people participated.

Haven is currently planning a similar activity for the FL panhandle for the spring of 2016.

The team members have taken the internationally-renowned Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER) courses, and it partners with TLAER in putting on advanced programs here in Florida; even conducting a week-long training and assessment with USDA at Miami International Airport for the Import/Export Center in 2011.

Unlike many teams in the country, the core members have gone on and received advanced training in human technical rescue, having completed Technician level training in confined space, swift-water, and instructor certification in high-angle technical rescue. These advanced skills allow the UF team to respond to a variety of rescues with and without the assistance of local fire rescue.

The team provides 24/7/365 animal technical rescue support within 2 hours of Gainesville. The team also is enabled to provide a series of ‘wet labs’ for DVM students in the fall semester on animal technical rescue, with the hope that they will become a resource in their communities after graduation. A local veterinarian providing sedation during a rescue and managing injuries is essential, and most agencies don’t have one on staff they can call. As an added incentive for those students completing all the labs, a day of repelling at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is included.

Director, College of Vet. Med. UF

Because of the combined human and animal technical rescue knowledge, John Haven, the team leader and CVM College Director, was asked to join the National Fire Protection Association committee for search and technical rescue (Committee standard 1670), to co-chair the development of a first chapter on animal technical rescue, for both livestock and household pets. He worked with subject matter experts from around the world for over a year to complete the draft, and the new national standard was published in December 2013.

The new national standard is significant because without standards, training was inconsistent. First responder agencies were not allowed to use their training dollars to obtain animal technical rescue training. Without proper training, some agencies would refuse livestock calls, only to then have to respond to rescue the general public who tried the rescue anyway. In some cases, responders have been injured using unsafe rescue methods when finding themselves under pressure to do something.

At the same time Haven began working on engaging the fire rescue community and the need for standards, he recognized Florida’s need for a training program, and trained teams around the state to perform animal technical rescue. The state veterinarian’s office supported the needs from local emergency management to establish a network across the state. A plan to use federal grant funds to acquire caches of equipment to station around the state in strategic locations, and to design an approved course of training was developed. While the state veterinarian’s office purchased the equipment Haven specified, which included “A” frame cranes, rescue glides, mud rescue gear, harnesses, etc., he partnered with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)’s education team, to develop the only Department of Homeland Security Operations Level Animal Technical Rescue Course.

The significance of the operations-level class is that students perform a complete rescue unassisted, as part of a ‘capstone’ learning experience, demonstrating they are operationally ready to respond. Grant funds have been obtained to provide training around the state. There are now seven state-supported teams in Florida, and Haven is in the process of providing a two-year refresher training to the existing agencies.

Host agencies for the caches of equipment are: Walton County Sheriff ’s Office, Gadsden County Sheriff ’s Office, St John’s County Fire Rescue, Volusia County Fire Rescue, Polk County Sheriff ’s www.fvma.org | 27

Office, Martin County Fire Rescue, and Lee County Sheriff ’s Office.

While these are the host counties, members of fire, animal control, sheriff, city police, and county extension, and private DVMs from surrounding counties have been involved in the trainings; developing a true regional and multi-agency response capability. The Lee County team is a great example of 5 counties training together on a regular basis, working together on calls, and in the past two years, having completed over a dozen successful rescues of livestock. There are additional large animal technical rescue sources at Wellington Fire Rescue, Southwest Ranches Fire Rescue, and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (two caches). Essentially anywhere in the state, there is now a cache of equipment, and team, within two hours response.

The UF VETS Team has been involved in several high risk, high reward technical rescues since developing its technical rescue skills in support of local emergency management. Some of the more notable include the dog “Joe” extraction from a 50 ft. hole during a night rescue, the horse “Midnight” from the Paynes Prairie mud flat on a Christmas Eve, and two cows in water at the bottom of a 35 ft. sink hole in Levy County. The team has also

provided “Smartphone Rescue Assistance” to teams that have arrived on site, sent a picture of the situation, and called for a quick consult to ensure their plan is solid.

Never wanting to be complacent in disaster response planning and training, Haven completed “Animal Technical Rescue 2.0” the first re-write of the animal technical rescue course since its inception in 2011 – completely embedding the new National Fire Protection Association standard material, including both large and small animal technical rescue. Recognizing the comprehensive nature of the course, other veterinary colleges have contacted UF about credentialing a team of instructors at other schools to provide the course. In October 2014, Haven instituted a “train the trainer” program at Texas A & M, which credentialed them to use the UF developed animal technical rescue course. Additionally, UF CVM has developed a ‘turnkey cache’ of equipment that local governments can purchase, and UF will configure the kit for them.

For those wanting to know more about the VETS Team, or animal technical rescue, Haven can be contacted at havenj@ufl. edu or his office at 352-294-4254.

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FAEP News Hour

with Laurie R. Goodrich, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS | Nathan Slovis, DVM, DACVIM, CHT

Rehabilitation Case Studies with Sheila Schils, MS, PhD | Carol Gillis, DVM, PhD, DACVSMR Timothy W. Flynn, PT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT | Sarah S. le Jeune, DVM, DACVS, DECVS, DACVSMR, CVA, Cert. Vet. Chiro

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PRACTICE Got a question? The FVMA can help.

One of the benefits of membership in the FVMA is our Helpline, (800) 992-3862, available to members daily, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Our Helpline also provides insight to the FVMA staff, of the challenges and concerns of our members.

In this feature we will highlight topics from the questions we received in preceding weeks, in an effort to keep our members up-to-date on current concerns as well as regulatory and legislative changes.

Question:

Do practicing veterinarians have a legal responsibility in the State of Florida to report suspected animal abuse to local government authorities?

A: There is no requirement to report animal abuse under the law. Paragraph (4) of the cruelty to animals statute below, however, appears to provide a veterinarian with civil immunity if he/she reported suspected animal abuse. It seems fairly clear that the veterinarian would have a part in an investigation if he/she was the reporting person, and the statute gives immunity for the veterinarian’s part in such an investigation.

828.12 Cruelty to animals.

(1) A person who unnecessarily overloads, overdrives, torments, deprives of necessary sustenance or shelter, or unnecessarily mutilates, or kills any animal, or causes the same to be done, or carries in or upon any vehicle, or otherwise, any animal in a cruel or inhumane manner, commits animal cruelty, a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or by a fine of not more than $5,000, or both.

(2) A person who intentionally commits an act to any animal, or a person who owns or has the custody or control of any animal and fails to act, which results in the cruel death, or excessive or repeated infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering, or causes the same to be done, commits aggravated animal cruelty, a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or by a fine of not more than $10,000, or both. (a) A person convicted of a violation of this subsection, where the finder of fact determines that the violation includes the knowing and intentional torture or torment of

30 | FVMA ADVOCATE

an animal that injures, mutilates, or kills the animal, shall be ordered to pay a minimum mandatory fine of $2,500 and undergo psychological counseling or complete an anger management treatment program. (b) A person convicted of a second or subsequent violation of this subsection shall be required to pay a minimum mandatory fine of $5,000 and serve a minimum mandatory period of incarceration of 6 months. In addition, the person shall be released only upon expiration of sentence, is not eligible for parole, control release, or any form of early release, and must serve 100 percent of the court-imposed sentence. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection.

(3) A person who commits multiple acts of animal cruelty or aggravated animal cruelty against an animal may be charged with a separate offense for each such act. A person who commits animal cruelty or aggravated animal cruelty against more than one animal may be charged with a separate offense for each animal such cruelty was committed upon.

(4) A veterinarian licensed to practice in the state shall be held harmless from either criminal or civil liability for any decisions made or services rendered under the provisions of this section. Such a veterinarian is, therefore, under this subsection, immune from a lawsuit for his or her part in an investigation of cruelty to animals.

Question:

What is required on a prescription label?

A: The requirements for prescription labels can be found in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 61G18-

15.002 Minimum Standards for Premises Where Veterinary Medicine Is Practiced:

https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome. asp?Chapter=61G18-15 (i) If drugs are dispensed to the public the drugs are to be distributed in child-resistant containers unless a specific written request for non child-resistant containers is made by the animal owner. All containers distributed must be labeled with the name of the drug contained within, the strength and quantity of the drug, the expiration date of the drug, instructions as to the use of the drug, the name and species of the animal for which the drug is intended to be administered, the last name of the animal’s owner, and the name, address and telephone number of the veterinarian prescribing the drug.

Note that the lot number is not required when the pharmacy dispenses to the patient. The lot number is only required for repackaged or multi-unit prepackaged drugs, which is consistent with the 61N-1.006 rule.

Question:

What are the requirements for USDA Accreditation for veterinarians?

Category I: All animals except: food and fiber species, horses, birds, farm-raised aquatic animals, all other livestock species, and zoo animals that can transmit exotic animal diseases to livestock Category I animal species examples: dog, cat, laboratory animal (rat, mouse, gerbil, guinea pig, and hamster), non-human primate, rabbit, ferret, mink, gopher, hedgehog, amphibian/reptile, native nonruminant wildlife, and marine mammal.

Category II: All animals Category II animal species examples: food and fiber animal species (cow, pig, sheep, goat, all ruminant), horse (mule, ass, pony, zebra), all bird species and poultry, farmraised aquatic animal species, livestock species (bison, captive cervid, llama, alpaca, antelope, other hoofed animal), zoo animals that can transmit exotic animal diseases to livestock.

Question:

When I file a complaint with the DBPR do I and/ or my witnesses run the risk of being sued by the party that is being complained about?

A: Category 1 Accredited Veterinarians must acquire 3 units (3 modules) (3 hours) of APHIS Approved Supplemental Training (AAST) anytime within their 3-year renewal period.

A: Firstly, a veterinarian is required to file a complaint if he or she knows of practices in the veterinary profession that are against the law.

Category 2 Accredited Veterinarians must acquire 6 units (6 modules) (6 hours) of AAST anytime within their 3-Year renewal period.

Secondly, witnesses in an investigation are subject to the privilege against civil liability because they are participating in the investigation.

There are 24 AAST modules that are stipulated by the USDA in the USDA-APHIS National Veterinary Accreditation Program (NVAP) that can be ordered for a small fee.

Descriptions of the 24 modules may be found at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/ vet_accreditation/downloads/nvap_supplemental_ training_form.pdf

455.225 Disciplinary proceedings.

(11) A privilege against civil liability is hereby granted to any complainant or any witness with regard to information furnished with respect to any investigation or proceeding pursuant to this section, unless the complainant or witness acted in bad faith or with malice in providing such information.

www.fvma.org | 31

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Experienced Relief (FL22E) Veterinarian Available for Cape Coral/Ft.NEW Myers Area. Former owner of Del Prado Pine Island Pet LISTING! Palm Beach County: Solo doctorand feline practice in 2,700SF Vet in Cape Coral, for medical routinegrooming office or facility.

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Goodofclient is a no rehabilitation element grossed in excess $500K communications in 2013. Minimal boarding, grooming, andsalary no emergencies offered. (FL33O) must. Competitive and benefits offered. Please send cover letter and resume to bgmadmxr@aol.com atten:leased Jennifer Jacksonville.

Solo doctor practice, well equipped facilityCumberland. on Monument Road.

(Exp. Issue 2&3/15: 8267) $675K+gross in 2014. No emergencies or grooming. (FL42J) Full time & Part Time Associate Needed: Countryside CONTRACT NEGOTIATION: Treasure Coast. Close to beaches. Solo doctor, Animal Hospital in practice Alachua, Florida is currently interviewing forrestaurants.

ONE small animal located in 2,160SF facility amidst shopping and GrossASSOCIATE in excess of $754K 2013. PART $180K+ TIME income toASSOCIATE. new owner. (FL27H) FULL TIME &inONE At least one year of clinical practice is preferred with a high emphasis on quality Congratulations to Dr. Rhonda Kirwan on the sale of her practice, Animal medicine SOLD! and customer service. Some Saturdays and flexibility is expected Hospital of Bonita, to Dr. Linda Kitchen!(FL15K) as part of our team. We are a well-established practice offering a myriad of services with additional access to multiple specialty and referral services.

We offer soft tissue surgery, digital ultrasound, pain management, 1610 Frederica Road x-ray, * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 IDEXX in houseToll labFree: and Avimark software.

We are fast paced and 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com never boring!! EFax: 888-568-6056 Email: RRowell@nvanet.com Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com or KGreene@nvanet.com Cell: 805-367-5079 or 386-314-6822 Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker (Exp. Issue 2/15: 1475) Associate wanted: Owner of a long established, fast-paced veterinary clinic looking for a doctor(s) efficient in small animal medicine, radiology and surgery who desire to own their own practice within the next few years.Earning potential substantial for individual(s) who are motivated and hard working. Contact Dr. John Stevens, Animal Florida Practices for Sale Medical Clinic, 2716 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, Florida, 33952; NEW LISTING! Sarasota County. 4000+SF facility on approximately 1 acre corner phone (941) 629-2126, fax (941) 629-5850 , jdstevet@gmail.com . lot near up and coming new neighborhood. 2 doctor, small animal practice. $1M+ (Exp. Issue 2/15: gross.

No 1470) Emergencies. (FL22E) Associate wanted:Seeking experienced Veterinarian efficient NEW LISTING! Palm Beach County: Solo doctor feline practice in 2,700SF in small facility. animal medicine compassionate about care and or Gross in excess and of $515K. Open 4 days a week.

Noclient boarding, grooming communication toAmple join room six doctor practice located 1 hour north of Emergencies. and potential for growth!

(FL28W) Tampa. Highly leveraged support staff, state of the art facilities and NEW LISTING! Suncoast. Solo doctor, small animal practice in 1,800SF leased equipment.

Contact: manager@sanfrancisvet.com facility. Please $690K+ gross.

No Emergencies.

Open 4 full days and 2 half days a week.

(Exp. Issue 2&3/15: 7798) (FL10C) SmallDuval animal relief veterinarian for Orlando and County. 2,400SF facility in residential neighborhood minutes from I-95. 1.5 surroundings 20practice years experience.

Good diagnostic medical doctor,areas smallwith animal with some acupuncture and Chineseand herbal medicine.

(FL18D) skill sets; Proficient in surgery. I enjoy meeting clients and their pets. Please contact Dr. Scott Wells at 4docscott@gmail.com or (763)639-9841 Pasco County. Elegant 3,500+SF facility surrounded by affluent neighborhoods, (Exp. Issue 2/15: 35531) commercial properties, and industry parks. Solo doctor, small animal practice with rehabilitation element grossed in excessWanted of $500K in 2013. Minimal boarding, no Technicians grooming, and no emergencies offered. (FL33O)

seeking technician/assistant: Countryside Animal Hospital Jacksonville.

Solo doctor practice, well equipped leased facility onfor Monument Road. is currently interviewing experienced technicians/assistants our busy $675K+gross in 2014. No emergencies or grooming. (FL42J) practice in Alachua, Florida. Applicants should have at least one year of experience in a smallNEGOTIATION: animal practice setting.

WeClose havetoa beaches. high focus on CONTRACT Treasure Coast.

Solo doctor, animal practice in 2,160SF facility amidst shopping and restaurants. customersmall service and clientlocated relations in a facility providing cutting edge in excess of $754K in 2013. $180K+ income to new owner. (FL27H) medicine,Gross surgery and diagnostics. Candidates should be team oriented and able to multi task while adjusting to the needs/preferences multiple SOLD! Congratulations to Dr. Rhonda Kirwan on the sale of her of practice, Animal doctors. Hospital Availability should be flexible including weekends. Benefits of Bonita, to Dr. Linda Kitchen!(FL15K) and incentives. This is a drug/smoke free workplace. Email resumes to: kgreene@nvanet.com. (Exp. Issue 2/15: 1475) 1610Equipments Frederica Road * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 for sale Toll Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com For SALE: A SUMMIT VT350 Veterinary ITT System (High Frequency Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com 300 mA at 125 KVp)and ALPHATECK processor. Owner upgrading. If Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker interested, e-mail inquiries to j_c33480@yahoo.com (Exp. Issue 2/15:1346)

Florida Practices for Sale

NEW LISTING! Sarasota County. 4000+SF facility on approximately 1 acre corner lot near up and coming new neighborhood. 2 doctor, small animal practice. $1M+ gross. No Emergencies. (FL22E) NEW LISTING! Palm Beach County: Solo doctor feline practice in 2,700SF facility. Gross in excess of $515K. Open 4 days a week. No boarding, grooming or Emergencies. Ample room and potential for growth! (FL28W) NEW LISTING! Suncoast. Solo doctor, small animal practice in 1,800SF leased facility. $690K+ gross. No Emergencies. Open 4 full days and 2 half days a week.

(FL10C) Duval County. 2,400SF facility in residential neighborhood minutes from I-95. 1.5 doctor, small animal practice with some acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

(FL18D) Pasco County. Elegant 3,500+SF facility surrounded by affluent neighborhoods, commercial properties, and industry parks. Solo doctor, small animal practice with rehabilitation element grossed in excess of $500K in 2013. Minimal boarding, no grooming, and no emergencies offered. (FL33O) Jacksonville. Solo doctor practice, well equipped leased facility on Monument Road. $675K+gross in 2014. No emergencies or grooming. (FL42J) CONTRACT NEGOTIATION: Treasure Coast. Close to beaches. Solo doctor, small animal practice located in 2,160SF facility amidst shopping and restaurants.

Gross in excess of $754K in 2013. $180K+ income to new owner. (FL27H) SOLD! Congratulations to Dr. Rhonda Kirwan on the sale of her practice, Animal Hospital of Bonita, to Dr. Linda Kitchen!(FL15K)

1610 Frederica Road * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 Toll Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

Florida Practices for Sale

NEW LISTING! Sarasota County. 4000+SF facility on approximately 1 acre corner Practice Listings! lot near up and coming Florida new neighborhood.

2 doctor, small animal practice. $1M+ gross. No Emergencies. (FL22E)

FREE PRACTICE CONSULTATION

NEW LISTING! Palm Beach County: Solo doctor feline practice in 2,700SF facility. Gross in excess of $515K. Open 4 days a week. No boarding, grooming or Emergencies.

Ample room andDr. potential foranimal, growth! (FL28W) North Florida– Solo small 2014 gross $790k,

Well well equipped, well animal staffed.

Prx.in&1,800SF RE. leased NEWestablished, LISTING! Suncoast.

Solo doctor, small practice facility. $690K+ gross. No Emergencies.

4 full days and2014 2 half days a week.

Eastern Panhandle– Solo Dr.Open Small animal, (FL10C) Gross $900k, 2400sq. ft. office, 3 exam rooms, approx. $270K Duvaldebt County.

2,400SFto facility in residential minutes from I-95. 1.5 after income owner.

Prx. & neighborhood RE doctor, small animal practice with some acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

New– West Coast of Fl.– Feline enthusiast, all Cat hospital.

(FL18D) Solo Dr. AAHA freestanding office, 2014 gross $840K. Prx.+RE. Pasco County.

Elegant facility location. surrounded 2500 by affluent neighborhoods, Pinellas Co.– Solo3,500+SF Dr. in great sq.ft. commercial properties, and industry parks. Solo doctor, small animal practice with Office, 2014element grossgrossed $575K.Prx. available.

Near the beach. rehabilitation in excess &ofRE $500K in 2013. Minimal boarding, no grooming, and noMiami– emergencies1.5-2 offered.Dr. (FL33O) New– S.W. SA in retail space with great location.

2014 gross $813K. Very profitable.

Jacksonville. Solo doctor practice, well equipped leased facility on Monument Road.

New-West 24 hr. E-clinic & Specialty Prx. $3.1mm $675K+gross in Coast– 2014. No emergencies or grooming.

(FL42J) gross. MRI, CT, Hyperbaric chamber, and more.

CONTRACT NEGOTIATION: Treasure Coast. Close to beaches. Solo doctor, New-North Port– 3200 sq.ft. Clinic+equipment+client data small animal practice located in 2,160SF facility amidst shopping and restaurants.

Gross inOwner excess ofmust $754Ksell. in 2013. $180K+ income to new owner. (FL27H) base.

Great location.

North Florida– Solo Dr. $750K gross, high net, been in same SOLD! Congratulations to Dr. Rhonda Kirwan on the sale of her practice, Animal location over 30Linda years.

Prx + RE Hospital offor Bonita, to Dr. Kitchen!(FL15K)

Contact Dr. Richard Alker for further practice information.

1610 Frederica Roador * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 850.814.9962 Richard@tpsgsales.com Toll Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com Showcase Properties of Central Florida, Broker Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

www.fvma.org | 33

The Science of Compassion, the Technology for Hope.™

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561-434-5700 Palm Beach Veterinary Specialists is locally owned and operated.

www.PalmBeachVetSpecialists.com

34 | FVMA ADVOCATE

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The Cat Thyroid Center “Dr. Ott and his team are true professionals who always go above and beyond in the care of both the patient and the patient’s people. The Cat Thyroid Center has treated two of my family members and both of these demanding ladies had absolutely no complaints at the level of service and attention they received during their I-131 spa treatment.”

-Dr. William Walsh, A Pet’s Friend Animal Hospital, Venice, FL “Over the years I have referred literally dozens of hyperthyroid cats to the Cat Thyroid Center. Every client I have sent has been very impressed and happy with the service they and their pet has received. The feedback I get is always positive, and I will continue to refer my clients to Dr. Ott for I-131 treatment.”

-Dr. Andrew King, Cat Hospital of Sarasota, Sarasota, FL “The Cat Thyroid Center offers excellent medical care and makes sure the patient and client feel at home. Dr. Ott does an amazing job following up with cases both with the owners and with me. He is always available when any questions arise. His compassion and knowledge make the Cat Thyroid Center superior when it comes to treatment and as a result we highly recommend him.”

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The Gentle Cure for Hyperthyroidism

717 S. Tamiami Trail Ruskin, FL 33570 813.641.3425 www.catthyroid@cs.com

www.fvma.org | 35

Florida Veterinary Medical Association 7207 Monetary Drive Orlando, FL 32809

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Orlando, FL Permit #793

We Have Sold More Veterinary Practices Than Anyone.