Advocate Issue 5 2015

F V M A ADVOCATE ISSUE 5 | 2015

We Pay

www.fvma.org

President's MESSAGE Colleagues: Seems as if we just took a breath with the snowbirds gone and now they are back, and that’s good news for Florida and the economy here.

As we approach the end of 2015 and look forward to 2016, we have accomplished significant items and projects and have more in the works.

The FVMA continues to be involved in legislative issues to protect our animals and profession and in continuing education for the improvement of the quality of care provided for Florida’s animals.

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

Officers 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. Julia Conway District 2–Northeast 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. Ernest C. Godfrey AVMA Delegate Dr. Amanda House FAEP Representative to the FVMA Executive Board Ex Officio Dr. James W. Lloyd, Dean UF College of Veterinary Medicine

The most exciting accomplishment this year has been the completion of the updating of the FVMA bylaws, a goal that has been in the works for a good while now. A huge thanks is due to the members of the taskforce appointed to grab this project and get it finished – and well they did. As members you can find the current bylaws on the website and shortly the new version will be posted for your reading. Then, at the annual business meeting that will be held in conjunction with the CE Conference next April, the new bylaws will be presented for member approval. This is another reason to make plans to attend and be an active part of your FVMA. The Gulf-Atlantic Veterinary Conference in Boca Raton was another great success for the FVMA members and veterinary guests from all over the United States. The FVMA staff and Phil have once again put on a meeting we members can be proud that our Association sponsors and provides for our profession.

In that same thought, Legislative Days is coming up once again in Tallahassee and every member is encouraged to get involved with the legislative process either by going to Tallahassee with us or working with your local Representatives to keep them informed of positions that serve the animals in our care and our profession. Even though they hold official State Office, most of them are not any more informed about veterinary issues than our average animal owner, so, it becomes our task to be that advisor and facilitate their ability to make good decisions when issues come up at the State Capital.

For our equine colleagues, the Ocala Equine Conference is coming up in January and if it is nearly as good at the recent Promoting Excellence Symposium in Naples, it will be a great CE opportunity for the equine veterinarians.

And finally, let me comment on a special event at the recent TGAVC Conference. Dr. Stephen Shores was honored for his many years of service to our profession at the Local, State, and National levels. Most recently Dr. Shores has headed up the FVMA Legislative Committee and made it into an active and important part of the FVMA’s participation and influence at all of these three levels – most especially at the State and Local levels. Dr. Shores has been the AVMA Delegate from the FVMA and has been the reason we are an active part in the National organization. His retirement will leave big shoes to fill - and they will be filled with some great candidates to take his place – and we all owe him a special thank you for the years of dedicated service.

Thanks, and I look forward to seeing many of you at both the upcoming Legislative Days and the Annual Meeting in Tampa.

FVMA Staff

Jennifer Branch Membership Services Representative Sandra P. Brooks Director of Finance Ralph E. Huber Industry Relations Representative Alssa Mathews Multimedia Art & Design Director Beni Jean Price Membership Services Representative Betsy Pynes Director of Membership & Certification Jason Smith Meetings and Events Planner Ann Wade Director of Communications

2 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Richard M. Carpenter, DVM

In This Issue 3 4 8 10

| | | |

In Remembrance Tribute to Dr. Stephen A. Shores Member Spotlights Membership & Recruitment

16 | 9th Annual Food Animal Veterinary Medical Conference 20 | Credentialing CVAs and CVTs 22 | Practise Pulse 25 | Classified Advertisement

In Remembrance WILLIAM R. RIPPEY, DVM Dr. William Reinhard Rippey, Sr., passed away on Friday, October 23, 2015 at Halifax Hospice Care Center in Port Orange, Florida. He was 78 years old.

A retired member of the FVMA, Dr. Rippey was also a member of AVMA and sat on the board of WORC (Western Organization of Resource Councils). Dr. Rippey founded Colonial Animal Clinic in 1968 in South Daytona, Florida, and practiced in the profession of veterinary medicine for 44 years.

He was born in Daytona Beach and graduated from Mainland High School in 1956. He attended Perkinson Junior College on a football scholarship, and went on to the University of Florida. He then graduated from Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1963.

Dr. Rippey served his community in other capacities as well. As a member of Central Baptist Church, he served at many levels, most notably as Lifetime Deacon and on the board of trustees. He also was president of the Halifax Area Kiwanis Club, and served in the Naval Reserves for seven years.

He is survived by his beloved wife Alice, his son William Jr. (Natasha) and his three grandchildren Rein, Clay and Ramsey, his daughter Patricia, and his sister Shirley (Stanley) Clark.

www.fvma.org  |  3

Tribute

FVMA HONORS

DR. STEPHEN A. SHORES

ON HIS RETIREMENT

D

r. Stephen A. Shores, past president of the FVMA, recently retired from service to the profession of veterinary medicine in Florida, after 51 years as a member of the Association. On his retirement, Dr. Shores had given 20 consecutive years of service to the Association which he loved, as a member of various committees of the organization. He also served as a member of the FVMA Executive Board for 14 years, during which he was the Association’s president in 2005. His tenure on the executive board also saw him serve as alternate delegate and delegate to the AVMA’s House of Delegates.

The FVMA honored Dr. Shores for his many years of selfless service to his profession and veterinarians in the State of Florida and around the United States, at a special dinner and presentation ceremony, held during the 3rd Annual Gulf-Atlantic Veterinary Conference, at the end of October in Boca Raton, Florida.

Representatives of the AVMA and the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UFCVM) who were in attendance, also presented Dr. Shores with plaques in tribute to his service to the national veterinary association and the college. Dr. José Arce, District IV AVMA Board of Directors Representative and Dr. Jan K. Strother, AVMA Vice President 2010-2012, made a presentation to Dr. Shores on the AVMA’s behalf; and Dr. Jim Lloyd, Dean of UFCVM thanked him for his service on behalf of the college.

Before this evening of tribute, as a singular acclamation on behalf of the FVMA’s more than 3,600 members, the Association requested that an American Flag be flown at the State Capitol in Tallahassee in Dr. Shores’ honor. The flag was flown on September 24, 2015.

Dr. Shores will be greatly missed by the FVMA for the invaluable services he provided to his fellow veterinarians and others in the sector through service on the Legislative Committee. He was the distinguished, constant advocate and voice of Florida’s veterinary community as its chairman for 10 years. He is most recognized by members for the aggressive and tireless leadership he provided in the FVMA’s advocacy program and his active presence in Tallahassee yearly during FVMA’s Legislative Action Days.

When Dr. Shores was nominated by colleagues in 2014 to be the recipient of FVMA’s Distinguished Service Award, they described his record of service in glowing terms: “He campaigns for what he believes in with his words, actions and financial contributions,” they said. “We all sleep better at night knowing

4 | FVMA ADVOCATE

Dr. Shores with Mrs. Pat Shores and daughter Syndi Tow

Dr. Shores with from left, Mrs. Pat Shores, Mrs. Buttons Carpenter and FVMA President, Dr. Richard Carpenter.

From right, Dr. Ernest Godfrey, FVMA Delegate to the AVMA, Dr. Jan K. Strother, AVMA Vice President 2010-2012, and Dr. José Arce, AVMA District IV Representative with Dr. Shores.

Being presented with the American Flag flown at the State Capitol in his honor

by FVMA President Carpenter with Executive Director Phil Hinkle (left) and Mrs. Shores.

STEPHEN A. SHORES DVM

that he is out there fighting for us and our profession. He has fought to keep veterinary procedures in our hands (licensed veterinarians), veterinary medications under our control, and fought for our right to practice without unreasonable regulations. He has been a pillar of organized veterinary medicine in Florida and the FVMA.” Dr. Shores was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award last year. Before that, he had been honored by the FVMA in 2009 with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2010, he was named Champion of Veterinary Medicine when two scholarships were awarded in his name to junior students at UFCVM. Originally from Texas, Dr. Shores moved to Florida and opened Shores Animal Hospital in Gainesville, and has been an active member of the Gainesville community. In 1988, he founded a satellite clinic, Butler Plaza Animal Hospital, which he owned until 2000 when it was sold.

He was a graduate of Texas A&M University, graduating with honors and in the top 10% of his class in 1964. Over his long and distinguished career, he invented and secured patents for many pet products, most notably, the Fflea Fflicker which was patented in 1986.

He even established a jewelry line called Veterinary Designs which is advertised in Veterinary Practice News and Veterinary Apparel Catalogue.

The list of his other illustrious service is extensive. To organized veterinary medicine, his service also included: ✪ Past president and founding member of the Alachua County Veterinary Medical Association ✪ Leader of the Alachua County Area Practice Owners Group ✪ District 2 – Northeast Representative on the FVMA Executive Board ✪ Member of the FVMA Awards Committee ✪ FVMA Committee of Continuous Existence Chair ✪ FVMA Political Action Committee Chair ✪ License Review Committee ✪ Farm Animal Welfare Committee ✪ Government Relations Committee ✪ FVMA Board of Governors ✪ Nominating Committee ✪ Long Range Planning Committee ✪ Outreach Committee

“...a pillar of organized veterinary medicine in Florida and the FVMA”

www.fvma.org | 5

✪ Budget and Finance Committee His service to UFCVM included: ✪ Admissions Committee ✪ Small Animal Practitioners Advisory Board ✪ College Advisory Committee ✪ Mentor to countless veterinary students during and after their structured veterinary education And his service to the local/nationwide community: ✪ Establishment of Affiliated Pet Emergency Hospital for Alachua County ✪ Participation in Operation Catnip (TNR program for feral cats) ✪ Participation in the Maddies® Program – which provided low-cost sterilization surgeries and vaccinations to lowincome families ✪ Participation in the Alachua County Humane Society, Gallenkamp (Local) and Friends of Animals (Nationwide) spay and neuter programs ✪ Participation in Gainesville Pet Rescue, B’s Dog & Cat Rescue, Puppy Hill Farms, Alachua County Humane Society Adoption program and the Southeast Guide Dog Association

Dr. Shores, Phil Hinkle and Mrs. Shores

Dr. Shores received multiple standing ovations during the evening.

In addition to his impressive list of accomplishments and practice endeavors, Dr. Shores is very active in his church with his wonderful wife, Patricia. Together they have five children and have been blessed with six grandchildren. They also enjoy their three dogs, Reggie, Aggie, and Scout.

Dr. Shores with Dr. Jim Lloyd, UFCVM Dean 6 | FVMA ADVOCATE

NOMINA T

CAL L

NS IO

R O F

der

n i rem

Nominations Deadline

FOR THE 2016 FVMA ANNUAL AWARDS

Only a month remains for nominations to be submitted for the 2016 FVMA Annual Awards. Members of the FVMA and the leadership of district associations are encouraged to nominate deserving veterinary professionals and citizens who should be honored for their contributions to organized veterinary medicine, and for their service to the veterinary profession.

January 8, 2016, is the submission deadline.

The Annual Awards Committee of five FVMA past presidents, chaired by Immediate Past President Donald H. Morgan, DVM, will name the 2016 recipients no later than January 14, 2016.

The annual awards will then be presented in a gala ceremony during the 87th FVMA Annual Convention which takes place from April 14 to the 17, 2016 in Tampa, Florida.

The annual awards honor veterinarians, team members and citizens in our state who have gone above and beyond to further veterinary medicine in Florida.

Nomination forms for the different award categories are downloadable from the FVMA website, www.FVMA.org.

Nominating procedures are detailed on each form. Nominations should be made on individual forms and forwarded to: FVMA Awards Committee, 7207 Monetary Drive, Orlando, FL 32809.

Nominations may be faxed to (407) 240-3710, or emailed to ann. wade@fvma.org.

Submit Your Nominations by

January 8, 2016 Award categories in the 2016 FVMA Annual Awards are: • • • • • • • •

Gold Star Award Veterinarian of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award Distinguished Service Award Citizen of the Year Certified Veterinary Technician of the Year Team Member of the Year Pet Hero

The full criteria for nominations to the different award categories are contained on the nomination forms that may be found on the FVMA website. You may also call the FVMA and have forms faxed or emailed, if you wish to make a nomination.

www.fvma.org | 7

Member Spotlights DR. JESSICA STINE OF CLEARWATER

QUALIFIES AS DACVO

DR. JESSICA STINE

Dr. Jessica Stine of Clearwater, Florida was welcomed as a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists during the college’s annual meeting which was held from October 7-10, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The FVMA extends congratulations to Dr. Stine, who is a new member, having joined the Association in 2015.

Dr. Stine graduated from Florida State University in Tallahassee with a Bachelor of Science degree. She then went on to study for her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, from where she graduated in 2009. She pursued a small animal medicine and surgery internship at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in Red Bank, NJ. She also completed an internship and then her residency in ophthalmology at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Florida.

She now works at BluePearl Veterinary Partners, located at Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL, a state-of-the-art facility which offers 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week veterinary hospital services, and specialty services including avian and exotics medicine, cardiology, dermatology and allergy treatment, internal medicine, oncology, surgery, and ophthalmology.

Dr. Jessica Stine describes the eye as a truly fascinating, detailed and complicated organ. Often, many systemic diseases manifest as ocular problems, and she feels lucky to be a part of diagnosing and treating those patients.

8 | FVMA ADVOCATE

The combination of medicine and surgery is what drew Dr. Stine to ophthalmology. She has a special interest in microsurgery of the eye including endolaser for glaucoma treatment. She is especially fond of blepharoplasty procedures to correct problems with the eyelid, and vision sparing procedures such as corneal grafting and cataract surgery. One of the most rewarding parts of her job is returning vision to a pet with cataracts, she says.

Dr. Stine shares her expertise in ophthalmology with the Florida Aquarium, the SPCA Tampa Bay, The Narrows Raptor Center at George C. McGough Nature Park, and several other local rescue organizations.

She loves all that Florida offers outdoors including gardening, running, and paddle boarding with her husband. Indoors, she enjoys yoga, cheering for the Florida Gators football team, and spending time with her oneeyed calico cat, Winks, who was rescued as a kitten after suffering eye trauma.

THE DOCTOR VOLUNTEERS HER VACATIONS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED

DR. LYNEL JAYE TOCCI

DR. LYNEL JAYE TOCCI Dr. Lynel Tocci’s story is an inspiring one, as she uses her spare time to travel afar in service to others as a volunteer veterinarian.

Our FVMA member practices at Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists, offering specialist and emergency care services to pets and their owners and caretakers in east Fort Lauderdale and surrounding Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties.

A Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, Dr. Tocci is also MT (ASCP) SBB credentialed, which is a certification of medical laboratory professionals by the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

Dr. Tocci studied for her bachelor’s degree at Northeastern University (1988) and received her DVM from Tufts University (2004). She completed a small animal medicine and surgery internship in 2005 at Angell Animal Medical Center and a critical

care residency, also at Angell Animal Medical Center in 2008.

She spent 10 years with Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA in their Blood Bank and Transfusion Service and served as their Clinical Laboratory Supervisor from 1993 to 1998; she is a Certified Specialist in Blood Bank and Medical Technology.

Dr. Tocci has lectured extensively, and she joined Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists after serving as the Department Head, Emergency Critical Care at Veterinary Emergency Specialty Center of New England in Waltham, MA. In her off-time, Dr. Tocci volunteers with World Vets International Aid for Animals to provide veterinary services in countries where these services are limited. She also teaches for the organization at its surgical training center in Granada, Nicaragua, where she provides surgical and anesthesia instruction to vets and veterinary students from countries in Latin America.

Dr. Tocci has been quoted as saying that she uses her knowledge and skills to give back to animals in need. It is her goal, she says, to help provide the highest level of veterinary care in developing countries around the world. In doing so, she has volunteered in Cambodia, Columbia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Peru and Vietnam.

This year, Dr. Tocci was in Albania for a volunteer spot in a large spay and neuter exercise. Her next stop is Alaska. She has revealed that in March of 2016, she will be volunteering in the Alaskan Iditarod in the sub-zero temperatures of the US North.

An FVMA member worthy of emulation, Dr. Tocci describes her goal as a veterinary practitioner on LinkedIn saying, “My goal as a specialist in veterinary medicine is to be a good teacher, attentive clinician, and supportive colleague. I am committed to giving back to those less fortunate in other countries and will continue to volunteer my time and skills unconditionally until I retire.”

www.fvma.org | 9

IN THE MAIL

ES C I T O N L A W E N E R Membership renewal notices for 2016 are being sent out this month. For the first time, the FVMA is sending out membership notices electronically by email to members and prospects. Notices will also be sent via the US Postal Service to approximately 200 members who have opted out of receiving electronic mail from their Association.

The FVMA successfully transitioned in 2015 from its old member database that had been in place for 20 years to a new member management system. One of the benefits of this new system is the simplified and more efficient communication flow via email which it enables between the Association and its membership. The FVMA will be applying the substantial annual savings due to the phasing in of electronic mailing to its programs that defend and enhance the veterinary medical profession.

FVMA membership provides valuable advantages to practicing Florida veterinarians and business owners. The benefits of belonging to the FVMA include: ▶ The Association’s aggressive and unswerving defense of the veterinary profession and the livelihood of its members

though the work of its Legislative Committee that monitors proposed legislation that could affect the profession; and maintaining a statewide network of legislative key contacts; and political action teams whose vigilance and efforts enable the Association’s initiatives and interventions. ▶ Deployment of aggressive counter measures against proposed changes to the Veterinary Practice Act and related statutes and rules that would adversely affect the conditions under which veterinarians practice. Toward this end, the FVMA participates in all quarterly meetings of the Board of Veterinary Medicine. ▶ The provision of affordable annual CE offerings for the small animal veterinarian, the FVMA Annual Conference and Gulf-Atlantic Veterinary Conference; and for large animal practitioners, the Annual Ocala Equine Conference, Annual Promoting Excellence Symposium, the Equine Foot Symposium and the Harvey Rubin Memorial Food Animal Veterinary Medical Conference. Our conferences also give practitioners opportunities to network professionally and socially with colleagues, and industry representatives who

Thanks to our Industry Partners for providing invaluable support The FVMA Membership Recruitment and Retention Campaign is a program carried out in partnership with companies in the veterinary industry in its expanded outreach to veterinarians in the State of Florida.

The FVMA thanks its 2016 partners, Virbac, Roadrunner Pharmacy, Index, Merial, and Elanco for their invaluable support.

(Negotiations are ongoing for additional free products which are expected to be finalized in January.)

Virbac’s contribution enables the FVMA to offer New Regular, Part-Time Employed and Recent Graduate Members their choice of one free six-pack of Sentinel Flavor Tabs or Sentinel Spectrum. (Wholesale value - $34) Roadrunner Pharmacy has contributed a voucher valued at fifty dollars ($50) to New & Renewing Regular, Part-Time Employed and Recent Graduate Members for the purchase of one (1) in-clinic compounded medication from the following products: (Value - $50) ● PD (Periodontal) Gel 3-pack ● Bute (Phenylbutazone) Biscuits 1 mg #50 ● Doxycycline 300 mg #50 Flex Tabs ● Ketoconazole 100 mg #65 Flex Tabs

10 | FVMA ADVOCATE

● Enrofloxacin 204 mg #50 Flex Tabs ● Clindamycin 50 mg #50 Flex Tabs ● Metronidazole 25 mg or 50 mg #100 Tablet ● Prednisolone 2.5 mg or 5 mg #100 Mini Melt

NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS TO RECEIVE FREE PRODUCTS WITH A WHOLESALE VALUE OF MORE THAN $700,000 service the veterinary profession. ▶ Administration of the statewide certification program for veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants, and web-based CE courses. FVMA also offers continuing education to boost the skills and professionalism of veterinary team members. ▶ Numerous Member Support Programs that save money for both the practice owner and the associate, including lower-cost credit card processing services, animal health products and services, and no-interest client payment plans.

A full listing of available programs may be viewed on FVMA’s website, www.fvma.org. ▶ Free subscription to FVMA news magazines, and alerts and information sharing on issues affecting veterinary medicine through fax broadcasts, emails, and other online channels. ▶ The FVMA Helpline at (800) 992-3862 which is available to answer questions daily to members from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Membership Categories are as follows: • Regular Member • State/Federal Member (employed by a state/federal government agency) • Retired Member (65 years of age, work an average10 hours weekly or less at a veterinary practice and be an FVMA member for 15 or more years) • Part-time Employed Member (work less than 20 hours weekly for an FVMA-member practice, but not the practice owner) • Non-resident Member Look out for your membership renewal letter or invitation to join the FVMA in your email inbox, or your mailbox for those who opted for mail delivery during the month of December. If you do not receive the FVMA membership notice, please call the FVMA at (800) 992-3862 for assistance.

Joining the FVMA or renewing your membership can also be easily done online by logging on to www.FVMA.org, and looking for “Membership” on the main menu.

to the 2016 Membership Recruitment and Retention Campaign New members will receive free products valued wholesale at $397.

Renewing members will receive free products valued wholesale at $306.

IDEXX is providing every New & Renewing, Part-Time Employed, and Recent Graduate Member who joins or renews membership with the FVMA by APRIL 30, 2016 one (1) free box of ten (10) SNAP Lepto Test Sets. (Wholesale value - $200) Merial’s sponsorship of the program provides New Regular, Part-Time Employed, and Recent Graduate Members who sign on by April 30, 2016, with one (1) free six-pack of NexGardTM and one (1) free 12-pack of Heartgard® Plus.

(Wholesale value – $57)

Elanco is providing every New & Renewing, Part-Time Employed, and Recent Graduate Member who joins or renews membership with the FVMA by April 30, 2016, their choice of one FREE six-pack of one of the parasite preventive products, Trifexis or Interceptor Plus Chewies. (Wholesale value – $56) www.fvma.org | 11

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.

Save the Dates

CE Offerings in 2016

Providing World−Class CE for our Diverse Membership Needs

9

th

FOOD ANIMAL

Annual

Dr. Harvey Rubin

Memorial Food Animal Veterinary Medical Conference

Osceola County Extension Building February 27-28, 2016 | Kissimmee, FL

87 FVMA th

small ANIMAL

Annual Conference Tampa marriott waterside hotel & Marina

April 14-17, 2016 | Tampa, FL

The 4th annual

Gulf-Atlantic

Veterinary Conference

Gulf-Atlantic

Boca Raton resort & Club, a waldorf astoria resort

“Experience the Difference”

Sept. 29-Oct. 2, 2016 |Boca Raton, FL

53rd AnnualOcala Equine Conference January 22-24, 2016 | Ocala, Florida

12th annual

Promoting Excellence

symposium FALL of 2016

For Updates & Details Visit www.fvma.org | www.faep.net

EQUINE

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

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)

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

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.

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

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.

1

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.

9

th Annual Dr. Harvey Rubin

Memorial Food Animal Veterinary Medical Conference

February 27 - 28, 2016

Register by February 12 and Save $$  15 CEU Credits

 $150 Pre-registration

 FREE for CVM Students (Pre-registration is required)

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Animal Industry; pharmaceutical and animal food industry partners, and the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, invite you to attend the Ninth Annual Dr. Harvey Rubin Memorial Food Animal Veterinary Medical Conference.

Our program provides 15 hours of continuing education obtained through quality food animal informational lectures presented by specialists in the field of food animal veterinary medicine.

We invite you to enjoy the steak dinner Saturday evening that also features native Southern foods, compliments of our industry partners. Without their support, we could not bring you this high-quality continuing education program.

To register, call the FVMA toll free at (800) 992-3862 or visit the FVMA website at www.fvma.org. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m. on February 27 at the Osceola County Extension Building, Kissimmee, Florida.

Schedule At-A-Glance Registration Desk Hours

Saturday, February 27, 2016 Sunday, February 28, 2016

8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m

AGENDA Saturday, February 27, 2016 10:00 – 10:10 a.m.

Introductions 10:10 – 1:00 p.m.

Dispensing Legend Drugs & Laws and Rules

Governing the Practice of Veterinary Medicine (one break) FVMA – Edwin Bayó, Esq 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Lunch FVMA Welcome – Dr. Richard M. Carpenter UF-CVM Update – Dean Dr. Jim Lloyd 2:00 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.

Cases Studies (Each 20 minutes + Qs)

Dr. Myriam Jimenez : Hydrallantois: Diagnosis and Management

Dr. Judd Sims : Mastitis: Is this a Herd Problem?

Dr. Gabriel Gomes : Evaluation of an ET Program

20 Minute Break 3:10 – 5:00 p.m.

Non-Traditional Parasite Control – Dr. David Pugh 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Social Hour and Hotel Check-in 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Steak Supper Served at FCA Headquarters 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Bovine Trichomoniasis Module 27 FDACS Update – Dr. Mike Short & Dr. Lisa Conti

Discussion of Proposed FL Trich Rule Introduction of Dr. Reddy Bommenini and Discussion of

the Lab Changes.

EVENT LOCATIONS Osceola County Extension Building (next to the Silver Spurs Arena) 1921 Kissimmee Valley Lane Kissimmee, FL 34744 Florida Cattlemen’s Association 800 Shakerag Road Kissimmee, FL 34744 (Saturday’s Social Hour, Dinner, Cases & Roundtable Events)

Sunday, February 28, 2016 Coffee and Socializing FDA Guidance for VFD (One break during session)  Veterinary Feed Directives  New FDA regulations  AMDUCA and Extra-label Use of drugs  Tissue Residue Investigations

● Inspections ● Regulatory Process ● Identification Rules – Michael Murphy, FDA – Leslie Cartmill Jackanicz, FDA

– Ashley Jelonek, FDA 11:30 – 12:30 p.m.

HPAI and High Mortality Events –  Response and Preparedness  TB/BR/VS updates

– Dr. Cris Young, USDA 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Lunch  Importance of Premises Identification Numbers and

Other Trends for Data Capture – Dr. Diane Kitchen, FDACS 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease Module 18

FL Poultry Industry & Common Health Concerns – Dr. Martin Smeltzer, USDA 8:00 – 8:30 a.m.

8:30 –11:30 a.m.

Register online at www.fvma.org or call FVMA at (800) 992-3862

Sponsors

Additional Support Provided by

RABIES ALERT IN VOLUSIA COUNTY The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County issued a rabies alert on Friday, November 20, 2015 for the New Smyrna Beach and Ormond Beach areas after rabies was confirmed in two raccoons and a cat.

The cat was found in a local shopping center in Ormond Beach and the department is asking people who may have come in contact with a stray cat in the area of the Trails Shopping Center on N. Nova Road from November 2-12 to contact the department.

The department is also reminding residents of Volusia country to vaccinate their pets, as rabies is in the wild animal population and domestic animals are at risk if they are not vaccinated.

Residents should maintain a heightened awareness, and all contact with wildlife should be avoided, particularly raccoons,

bats, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes.

Persons who have been bitten or scratched by wild or domestic animals should seek medical attention and report injury to the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County at (386) 2745000 during working hours or after hours at (386) 316-5030.

Since July of this year, rabies alerts have been issued in several counties in Florida due to domestic animals or persons being exposed to wild animals that were determined to be infected with rabies, or because rabies had been confirmed in a feral cat or wild animal. Rabies alerts are normally effective for a 60-day period.

The counties that have been affected since July are Gulf, St. Lucie, Pasco, Hendy, Lee, and now Volusia.

END RABIES TOGETHER – The Picture in 2015 “End Rabies Together” was the theme of Global Rabies Day observed in September. Advocates believe elimination of rabies from around the world is a possibility, and hopes that setting aside a day each year to heighten awareness and encourage continued action around the world will help to make that happen.

What is the impact of rabies in the world?

A person dies from rabies every ten minutes somewhere in the world. In many underprivileged communities around the world, the cost of rabies preventatives that would decrease human deaths from rabies is prohibitively high. Campaigns and programs to highlight that rabies can be prevented and teach people how to avoid the transmission of rabies from host animals to humans are therefore crucial in the fight to eradicate this disease from the human population.

Around the world, the majority of rabies fatalities occur in Africa and Asia. In these at-risk populations, children are reported to be the most vulnerable because they are most likely to be bitten by dogs, the main carriers of the disease in those areas.

In developed countries, the picture is a lot less bleak with rabies incidence in the animal and human populations continuing a steady decline witnessed over the past 100 years.

In roughly 90 years, the US has witnessed a decline in human deaths due to rabies, from more than 100 annually to one or two per year in the 1990’s. Human rabies cases are extremely rare.

Only one to three cases are reported each year. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and others attribute this to animal control and vaccination programs, modern treatments after exposure and awareness programs.

The most recent human deaths due to rabies reportedly occurred in 2011, one each in California, New Jersey, and New York. It’s reported that recent human fatalities associated with 18 | FVMA ADVOCATE

rabies in the US occurred in people who were unaware they had been exposed to the disease and failed to seek medical assistance.

More than 90% of all animal cases in the US reported annually to the CDC occur in wildlife. The main hosts are carnivores and bats. Sixty years ago, the majority of cases were found in domestic animals.

Domestic dogs have been eliminated as reservoirs of rabies in the US. When dogs and cats are diagnosed with rabies, they are usually infected by wildlife they come into contact with.

Domestic dogs do continue to be the biggest rabies threat in the world overall, however.

In the US, raccoon, followed by bats, skunks and foxes account for 92% of reported rabies cases. Domestic animals make up the remaining 8% with cats being the most, followed by dogs, cattle, horses and mules, sheep and goats, and others, including swine and llamas.

In 2013, 49 states and Puerto Rico claimed 5,865 cases of rabies in animals and 3 human rabies cases to CDC. The total number of reported cases decreased by approximately 5% from those reported in 2012 (6,162 rabid animals). About 100,000 animals are tested for rabies each year in the US. The Rabies Compendium, Rabies Prevention and Control in Florida, 2014, contains vital information and guidelines for rabies prevention in the state.

Below is a link to the Compendium on the web. http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/rabies/_ documents/rabiesguide2014final2.pdf Below is a link to the Department of Health website where information on rabies may be found. http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/rabies/ index.html

TRAINING WITH UFCVM’S JOHN HAVEN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR DECEMBER A rescue training opportunity for large animal practitioners is schedule for December 19-20 in Central Florida.

To be presented by John Haven, certified instructor of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (UFCVM), it is a collaboration of UFCVM and the College of Central Florida. Entitled “Large Animal Technical Rescue Training,” it takes place at Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala, Florida.

Registration for the training is easy, and all participants will be awarded a certificate in either Awareness Level or Operations Level training.

Marsha Pidherney, DVM, Associate Professor Equine Studies at the College of Central Florida informs FVMA Advocate that veterinarians, as well as staff members, will benefit from this specialized training in large animal rescue.

www.fvma.org | 19

CREDENTIALING CVAs AND CVTs

FVMA Program Encouraging Team Development and Advancing Veterinary Medicine

T

he technician sector in the veterinary medical profession in Florida is a growing one, and the FVMA credentialing program for Certified Veterinary Technicians (CVT) and Certified Veterinary Assistants (CVA) is playing a crucial role in developing this sector of the veterinary profession.

Veterinary medicine in the state has grown exponentially with the increased emphasis on keeping family pets in the best of health. Today there are 2,167 veterinary practices and 7,972 veterinarians licensed to practice in Florida needing the support of veterinary technicians and assistants.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has forecast above average growth in this field through 2020 and beyond.

In fulfillment of its mission to advance the veterinary profession and promote animal health and wellbeing, the FVMA is committed to developing this important sector of the profession. Credentialing CVTs and CVAs supports the career growth of these important members of the veterinary team; and providing opportunities for easily accessed and costeffective continuing education enhances their professional development. The heart of the veterinary practice, veterinary technicians and assistants are tasked at ensuring patient care is optimally maintained and owners and caregivers go away completely satisfied with the service they received.

Although Florida on a whole ranks above the national average in employment of veterinary technicians, it being a large state, there remains a great need for employees in this sector. There are some areas of the state that are woefully underserved. These areas register significantly below the national average.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics for May 2014, reported that some 8,200 were employed as veterinary technicians and assistants in Florida. For every 1,000 jobs, 1.07 were vet techs and assistants. An interesting statistic is that Florida is showing the third highest employment of veterinary technicians after Texas and California. But it is not uncommon for practice managers and HR to speak of the challenges they face when trying to staff veterinary clinics. The numbers available are just not enough to go around, they say.

What accounts for this?

The state of Florida with its vast urban and rural centers, substantial agriculture and farming industries, and the distinction of being the #3 horse breeding region in the United States, is an

20 | FVMA ADVOCATE

ideal market for a burgeoning veterinary technician, veterinary assistant sector. And it is these unique characteristics that account for Florida showing above average in the employment of vet technicians and assistants, while still being a challenging environment for managers who must equip their hospitals with the necessary personnel.

It’s easily understood why some areas, such as Ocala, the “horse capital of the world” would show above average employment in this sector, and why the Florida Northwest with its rural expanse would be significantly below. What is noteworthy, is that some urban areas such as Miami and Panama City, and the metropolitan area comprising Orlando, Kissimmee and Sanford also register way below the average.

Thus, the veterinary technician/assistant field in our state remains an extremely attractive one. And opportunities for employment in the field exist around the state, in the urban centers as well as in rural areas.

Certification of veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants is not required in Florida, but more and more establishments are seeking credentialed hires. Florida Statute recognizes the FVMA’s certification program. The FVMA program meanwhile, plays a vital role in facilitating the enhancement of the sector through the encouragement of educational and professional development, and bringing recognition to these important members of the veterinary team.

The FVMA certifies CVTs and CVAs. To be certified CVT by the FVMA, a veterinary technician must graduate from an AVMA accredited veterinary technology

program and obtain a passing grade in the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards.

Certified veterinary assistants must complete a course of study at an Animal Care Technologies (ACT) High School or Adult Learning Program or an ACT Partner Veterinary Hospital or Clinic Program. They must also obtain a score of 70% or higher on the certified Veterinary Assistant Final Exam.

The high school or adult learning program comprises at least nine months of an approved high school or adult learning curriculum designed to prepare students for employment in the animal care industry. Students must complete a skills competency validation list under the supervision of a licensed DVM, CVT or an approved veterinary assistant instructor, and complete a minimum of 500 hours of practical veterinary assisting experience.

The hospital or clinic program allows for the CVA curriculum to be taken online via ACT. In the past four years, the FVMA has certified 2,306 CVAs. The Association currently has 757 CVTs on its roster.

There are 11 institutions in the state, which are accredited by the AVMA, that offer veterinary technician programs. Veterinary assisting training on the other hand, is widely dispersed throughout the state in high schools and technical schools, and adult learning centers. In 2014, there were 65 institutions training veterinary assistants in Florida.

We encourage all technicians that have graduated from

an accredited program, and veterinary assistants who have completed their courses and the required hours of practical training, to obtain certification with the FVMA. Although certification is not yet a requirement by the State for veterinary technicians and assistants, more and more practices are asking their new hires to be certified.

All the criteria and instructions for obtaining CVT and CVA certification from the FVMA may be accessed online at https:// fvma.org/certification. The AVMA lists all accredited veterinary technology programs on its website, and information about the ACT CVA program may be accessed at https://schools.4act.com.

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PRACTICE Pulse 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:

What is the position if an owner/caretaker alters a prescription by changing the quantity to be dispensed? In our case, a prescription for Levothyroxine was written.

A: The owner should be informed that his action is no different than if the vet added a “0” to the check the patient wrote for payment. It is a breach of trust as well as a criminal offense (in this case a misdemeanor because it was not a controlled substance).

831.30 Medicinal drugs; fraud in obtaining.—Whoever: (1) Falsely makes, alters, or forges any prescription, as defined in s. 465.003, for a medicinal drug other than a drug controlled by chapter 893; (2) Knowingly causes such prescription to be falsely made, altered, forged, or counterfeited; or (3) Passes, utters, or publishes such prescription or otherwise knowingly holds out such false or forged prescription as true with intent to obtain such drug commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

A second or subsequent conviction constitutes a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

The owner should be informed there is no obligation to refer this matter to the authorities at this time because it can be considered a simple mistake, but that an obligation to report may exist if it happens again.

Question:

I have recently hired an employee who has a Euthanasia

by Injection Certification from the American Humane Association, issued in another state. Is she allowed to perform euthanasia in Florida with this certification, or do I need to have her attend the Florida Animal Control Association course?

A: 61G18-16.005 Euthanasia of Dogs and Cats; Technician Certification Course (1) Euthanasia shall be performed only by: (a) A licensed veterinarian; or (b) An employee or agent of a public or private agency, animal shelter or other facility that is operated for the collection and care of stray, neglected, abandoned or unwanted animals, as provided herein.

(2) Any employee or agent of a public or private agency,

22 | FVMA ADVOCATE

animal shelter or other facility that is operated for the collection and care of stray, neglected, abandoned or unwanted animals who performs euthanasia shall successfully complete a 16-hour euthanasia technician certification course. Any employee or agent who before October 1, 1993, has performed euthanasia shall obtain certification by October 1, 1994. Any employee or agent who after October 1, 1993, begins performing euthanasia must have successfully completed the euthanasia technician certification course before performing any euthanasia.

(3) The curriculum for the 16-hour euthanasia technician certification course shall provide information on the following subjects: (a) Pharmacology, proper administration and storage of euthanasia solutions; eight (8) hours; (b) Federal and state laws regulating the storage and accountability of euthanasia olutions; two (2) hours; (c) Euthanasia technician stress management; four (4) hours; and (d) Disposal of euthanized animals; two (2) hours.

(4) A certified veterinary technician who is an employee or agent of a public or private agency, animal shelter, or other facility which is operated for the collection of stray, neglected, abandoned, or unwanted animals may perform euthanasia without completion of the certification course. A licensed veterinarian who delegates the performance of euthanasia to a technician shall verify that said technician has either completed the certification course, or is a certified veterinary technician who has graduated from a veterinary technology training program that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technicians Education and Activities (CVTEA) and has successfully completed the examinations required by the Florida Veterinary Medical Association’s Technician Committee.

(5) Approval of the curriculum of the 16-hour euthanasia technician certification course by the Board of Veterinary Medicine prior to its presentation, shall be required. All providers of a 16-hour euthanasia technician certification course shall comply with the requirements of Rule 61G18-16.003, F.A.C. Specific Authority 474.206, 828.058 FS. Law Implemented 474.214(1)(hh), 828.058 FS. History–New 4-18-94, Amended 3-2901.

If your technician is not an FVMA Certified Veterinary Technician, you will need to check with the DBPR directly to ensure her course is valid as they are the entity that approves those courses.

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation 940 N Monroe St Tallahassee, FL 32399 (850) 487-1395 www.myfloridalicense.com

Question:

We have an employee that has stolen cash from the clinic by changing the dollar amount paid by several clients over the course of about 10 months. What is the best course of action to deal with this situation?

We have not yet confronted the individual but would like to receive restitution from her and would obviously terminate her position with the company.

A: The only way to handle this type of situation is by going to the police/sheriff and swearing out a complaint so that the employee can be arrested. The Court will then order the restitution. Do not confront the individual.

Sometimes you may want to give somebody a “break” and handle things without involving law enforcement.

The problem however, is that if you tell the employee to “pay me back or I will turn you in to the police,” that may constitute extortion. And, since you already know they can’t be trusted, you will not want to give that person anything they can use against you.

Question:

We are contacting you regarding consent to release medical records. What are our clinic’s responsibilities and liabilities when boarding facilities call us to have records faxed to them? Are we required to ask the owner’s permission to release portions of the medical record to a third party? We have a release form we use, but is verbal consent over the phone an option?

Sometimes clients may be going to a boarding facility, but if they do not have time to come in to sign a release prior, is it ok to get a verbal or email authorization?

A: A form is sufficient. The statute §474.2165, F.S., provides (in the pertinent part): (3) Any records owner licensed under this chapter who makes an examination of, or administers treatment or dispenses legend drugs to, any patient shall, upon request of the client or the client’s legal representative, furnish, in a timely manner, without delays for legal review, copies of all reports and records relating to such examination or treatment, including X rays. The furnishing of such report or copies shall not be conditioned upon payment of a fee for services rendered.

(4) Except as otherwise provided in this section, such records may not be furnished to, and the medical condition of

a patient may not be discussed with, any person other than the client or the client’s legal representative or other veterinarians involved in the care or treatment of the patient, except upon written authorization of the client. However, such records may be furnished without written authorization under the following circumstances: (a) To any person, firm, or corporation that has procured or furnished such examination or treatment with the client’s consent. (b) In any civil or criminal action, unless otherwise prohibited by law, upon the issuance of a subpoena from a court of competent jurisdiction and proper notice to the client or the client’s legal representative by the party seeking such records. (c) For statistical and scientific research, provided the information is abstracted in such a way as to protect the identity of the patient and the client, or provided written permission is received from the client or the client’s legal representative.

(5) Except in a medical negligence action or administrative proceeding when a veterinarian is or reasonably expects to be named as a defendant, information disclosed to a veterinarian by a client in the course of the care and treatment of the patient is confidential and may be disclosed only to other veterinarians involved in the care or treatment of the patient, or if permitted by written authorization from the client or compelled by subpoena at a deposition, evidentiary hearing, or trial for which proper notice has been given.

Section (3) states that records can be sent to others “upon request of the client or the client’s legal representative.”

So, (3) does not specifically state that it has to be written authorization. Unfortunately, (4) and (5) specifically state written authorization, and 2 beats 1, so our lawyer’s advice is that written authorization is the prudent way to go.

However, keep in mind that written authorization can be an e-mail, a text, or a fax. There is no requirement for a handwritten signature by the client.

It is suggested that the best protocol would be to fax or e-mail a copy of the release form to the boarding facility so that the client can sign it then and there and it can be faxed back to the clinic. If you have the client’s e-mail address on file, an e-mail from that same e-mail address (which you can presume comes from the client) authorizing the release to the XYZ boarding facility would be sufficient (print a copy and place on the file). If you have the client’s phone number on file, a text from that same phone number is also OK. Finally, veterinarians should keep in mind that so long as they are acting prudently, they should not be worried about “liabilities.” There is no animal HIPAA law. A person that sues a veterinarian for breach of confidentiality has to prove that such breach caused damages.

www.fvma.org | 23

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS RELIEF VETERINARIANS

Relief/Part-time Veterinarian Palm Beach & Broward: CountiesAvailable November through May; Former practice owner and shelter veterinarian; Resume, References upon request. Contact: Randy Feld, DVM; Ph: 781-572-2437 Email: rfelddvm@gmail.com (Exp. Issue 5 &6/15:24253) EXPERIENCED SMALL ANIMAL V ETERINARIAN AVAILABLE: St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Indian River and Martin Counties. R. A. Swiezy, DVM – (772) 418-1939.

(Exp. Issue 4 &5/15:557) RSVP (Relief Services for Veterinary Practitioners) is seeking veterinarians for full time, part time and sporadic relief work in the state of Florida. Moonlighters are welcome! Choose when and where you work, for premium pay! For more information or to apply, please visit www.reliefvet.com or call 800-256-4078.

(Exp. Issue 5 & 6/15, 1-4/16:3041) Small animal relief veterinarian : for Orlando and surroundings areas with 20 years experience. Good diagnostic and medical 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.

(Exp. Issue 5/15: 21575) Experienced veterinarian available: for Cape CoralFt. Myers surrounding areas. Former practice owner Del Prado Pine Island Pet Vet. Available for medical and routine office call procedures. I am experienced in abdominal and cardiac ultrasound, in house blood chemistry and advanced dentistry. Contact Dr. Jim Sharp 810-533-3598 or vetseanarian@comcast.net (Exp. Issue 5/15:5121)

experienced relief veterinarian available : Caring, ethical and progressive Multilingual experienced relief veterinarian available for small animals and equine practices all over Florida. Over 25 years experience and former practice owner. Special training in acupuncture, herbology, sports medicine and rehabilitation. Silvia do Valle, DVM, MS, CVA sdovalle@gmail.com or (407) 745-1754 (Exp. Issue 5/15:27202) Relief vet needed: Relief vet needed from the middle of December through January. Ocala Florida area. Call Dr. Arnone at 352 216 8050.

(Exp. Issue 5/15:8621) Relief or Part Time Veterinarian Available Northeast Florida: C ompassionate, caring and skilled veterinarian seeking employment - part-time or relief work in the greater Jacksonville and St. Augustine areas; 1992 Purdue graduate; Interests: birds, cats, dogs, pocket pets and reptiles; medicine, advanced dentistry and surgery; Former practice owner; Member JVMS, FVMA, AVMA. Contact Dr. Cindy Miller at (904) 3872957 home, (904) 923-0944 cell, or drcindyinjax@yahoo.com.

(Exp. Issue 5/15:1653) Relief or part-time veterinarian available in the Tampa area: 30 years of experience as a practice owner. Enjoy surgery and working with people, small animal only. Call Dr. Joe Priest at (813) 230-5998 (Exp. Issue 5,6/15; 1/16:1289) Relief vet: MSU 1977 GRAD. Small animal. Sarasota area. Jan-May 2016 Contact mlife3737@gmail.com/517 803 7737 Michael Lifsey (Exp. Issue 5/15:628)

Continued to Next Page www.fvma.org | 25

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Seeking relief or part-time position 2-3 days per week – Saturday’s OK. Palm Beach or North Broward area. Former multi-doctor practice owner. Excellent surgical skills, reliable, energetic, professional and a great communicator. Experienced in high volume private and shelter practice settings.Contact: David M. Green, VMD Home: 561364-2200; Cell: 305-613-4405; Email- davilace@bellsouth.net (Exp. Issue 4 & 5/15:17132)

Associates wanted

seeking an associate veterinarian : Pets First Animal Hospital is seeking an associate veterinarian to join our client-centered small animal practice in Fort Myers, Florida. Two or more years of experience are preferred. However, consideration will be given to any qualified applicant. Desired qualities include strong medical, surgical, and communication skills as well as a compassionate, positive attitude.

Pets First Animal Hospital has an extremely unique business model that has allowed us to grow at a rapid rate. The wonderful culture and positive environment are the foundation of the hospital. Our staff is well trained, experienced, friendly, and motivated to ensure a positive experience for pets and their owners. We have a team approach to patient care and pride ourselves on providing high quality medicine with an emphasis on preventive care and client education. Compensation may be salary and/or production-based depending on candidate’s experience. Please contact us if you wish to secure a long-term position in a great environment. Compensation will include a signing bonus.

Phone – (865) 617-2361 or Email – info@petsfirsthospital.com (Exp. Issue 5/15: 19815) Associates Veterinarian Wanted: Looking for a nice and low stress veterinary hospital to work in? Dr. Bob Irelan's is seeking a full-time veterinarian that is dedicated and has a good knowledge of medicine and surgery. We are a 3 veterinarian office with good pay and benefits. The staff is excellent and easy to get along with. The practice is very busy with providing excellent medical and surgical care. Also, the staff is very personable. If you are interested, contact Rhonda at 863-859-9485, or 863-398-6182, or irelanvet@gmail.com. Looking forward to hearing from you.

(Exp. Issue 4 & 5/15: 28422) looking for a motivated DVM: Halifax Humane Society (HHS), a 11,000 animal intake shelter in the beautiful Greater Daytona Beach area, is looking for a motivated DVM to lead the Medical Services Division. HHS work has been the subject of much acclaim including an appearance on the dog whisperer and recently accepting a national classy award. The Organization has 3 sites including a Humane Alliance model S/N Clinic in the heart of Daytona Beach.

Primary duties entail: performing high quality, high volume S/N and general oversight of the HHS Medical Division. HHS offers starting salary range of 75k-80k (based on surgical ability), licensing fees, professional development, and great benefits. Candidate must be a strong leader willing to administer this department to exemplary heights. Humane Alliance certification or equivalent (high volume S/N experience) and a FL License preferred but not required to apply (Out of states will have to apply upon hiring). Please send cover letter and resume mpari@halifaxhumanesociety.org . No phone calls please.

(Exp. Issue 5 /15: 30225) Associate Veterinarian wanted: for 3 Doctor small animal practice in Oviedo, Florida. Hospital has been established for 24 years but continues to grow. New and recent graduates will be given prime consideration. Please contact Dr. Bob Moja at 407-366-4535 or cfah1@hotmail.com (Exp. Issue 4,5 & 6/15:15571) Seeking Full time Veterinarian : Immediate opening, Seeking Full time Veterinarian with good communication skills for our Progressive AAHA accredited fully equipped digital paperless animal hospital in West Palm Beach, Florida. Prefer experienced veterinarian

26 | FVMA ADVOCATE

but also will consider enthusiastic new graduate. Enjoy practicing quality veterinary medicine with opportunities to learn more. Compensation package includes health insurance, vacation pay, paid continuing education and salary. Visit www.bestpetdoctor.com to take a tour and learn more about our modern animal hospital. Please send confidential resume to: bestpetdoctor@gmail.com. (Exp. Issue 5/15: 20276) Seeking experienced associate veterinarian: We are seeking an associate who is passionate about the highest standard of care and excellent client communication. The ideal candidate enjoys a wide variety of challenging cases and advancing their career. State of the art facility including in-house lab work, digital radiography, ultrasound, dental radiography, laser therapy. Excellent support staff.

Bayshore Animal Clinic is a four-doctor small animal practice located in South Tampa. Affluent community, great neighborhoods with character and walkability, close access to beaches. Please send resume to Dr. Meegan Panzarella, dogtorP@gmail.com Please visit our website at

www.bayshoreanimalclinic.com

(Exp. Issue 5/15: 20842) Full time Veterinarian needed: for a small animal practice in St. Petersburg, FL. Competitive pay, health insurance compensation. Must have at least 2-4 years experience in a clinical setting, effective client communication skills, and of course, a love for your patients. Current license, DEA, and accredited for USDA. All expenses paid to keep current, etc.

Please contact Libby Compton, hospital manager, with your credentials via email, comptonc13@aol.com or fax 727-522-2085 (Exp. Issue 5/15:24393) Associate v eter inar ian position in Palm Beach Cou n t y: Look ing for pa r t-time/f u l l-time associate for mature full service small animal practice with 2 locations. Please send resume to lmartin1228@msn.com (Exp. Issue 5/15:28745) Associate DVM at modern practice in Cortez, FL ($10,000 signing bonus): Beach Veterinary Clinic is a wellequipped small animal veterinary hospital in Cortez, FL. We offer a beautiful work location close to the water, an opportunity to serve an affluent clientele, a relaxed workplace environment, an experienced staff, no after-hours emergencies, and excellent benefits! We have digital radiography, complete IDEXX in house laboratory, DBI dental unit, endoscopy, MedRX rigid endoscope and ear irrigation unit, Tonopen, pulse oximetry, and ECG monitoring devices.

For more information, please visit us on Facebook or our website www.beachvetclinic.com. Please send your resume and cover letter to Stina Carter at SLCarter@nvanet.com.

(Exp. Issue 5/15:2833) Associate Veterinarian-Jacksonville Florida: Pet Doctors of America is seeking a professional, experienced veterinarian to join our team. We provide our clients with exceptional animal healthcare by offering preventative care, surgery, anesthetic monitoring, dental procedures, digital radiography, ultrasound, laser therapy while delivering a superior client experience. Our two locations are open 7 days a week and supported by a talented staff.

Call (904) 223-5700 and ask for Melinda Becker or Dr. Avery Silvers.

(Exp. Issue 5/15:30280) seeking a full or part-time associate: Eureka Animal Hospital is seeking a full or part-time associate who is passionate about the highest standard of veterinary care. The ideal candidate is a solid communicator interested in wide variety of challenging cases in a very fast-growing small animal practice. The facility has an in-house lab, x-ray and an excellent support staff. New ownership is committed to growing the practice and increasing technology and diagnostic capability. Eureka Animal Hospital is a 1.5 doctor small animal practice located in Cutler Bay, just outside Miami. Great community

with great neighborhoods and very close access to beaches. Please contact Matthew Lender at lendermatt@hotmail.com.

(Exp. Issue 5/15:1857)

Technicians and Staff Wanted

seeking a CVT: Small animal veterinary clinic in St. Petersburg, FL is seeking a CVT with at least 2-3 years experience in a clinical setting. Must have knowledge of laboratory procedures, possess good client communication skills, and good record keeping abilities. Must be dependable, self-motivating, and a good team player. This is a part time position with possibility for full time. Contact Libby via email: comptonc13@aol.com, phone 727-525-0966, or fax 727-522-2085.

(Exp. Issue 5/15: 24393)

practice for sale

veterinary building FOR SALE: 3500 Sq/Ft Veterinary Building on 2½ lots for sale/lease, Pompano Beach, FL--surrounded by busy roads; currently leased until July 2016 for $5,300/month.

954-786-3274, jwwnelson04@aol.com (Exp. Issue 4 & 5/15:2790) SMALL ANIMAL PR ACTICE FOR SALE – Collier County: quaint solo small animal practice on main thoroughfare.

High net. 5 minutes from beaches, experienced staff. Updated Avimark, website, OSHA compliance. Leased shopping plaza facility. Great growth potential! Reply to: veet641@aol.com (Exp. Issue 4 &5/15:10972) SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE FOR SALE – JACKSONVILLE, FL: Thirty five year old small animal practice at the five point intersection of Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville , Florida. 7500 square foot building, two story, facing two streets, vacant site. Owner is retiring. Call Dr. Devegowda Gopal, (904) 786-4919.

(Exp. Issue 1,3,5,6/15 & 1,2/16:1106)

Florida Practices for Sale Florida Practice Listings!

New! Pasco County: Rapidly growing area. $995K+ gross. No Emergencies, grooming or boarding. Leased facility. (FL23N)

North Florida– Solo Dr. small animal, 2014 gross $790k, Charlotte County: 1.75 doctor, small animal practice in leased 1,100SF Well established, well equipped, well staffed. Prx. & RE. facility. No Emergencies, boarding or grooming offered. $214K Personal Westincome Coastto of Fl.– Feline enthusiast, solo Dr. Feline Prx. buyer.(FL14P) AAHA freestanding office, 2014 gross $840K. Prx.+RE. on approximately 1 acre corner lot near WestSarasota Coast–County.

24 hr.4000+SF E-clinicfacility & Specialty Prx. 2015 projected up and coming new neighborhood. 2 doctor, small animal practice. $1M+ gross gross. $2.6mm MRI, CT, Hyperbaric chamber, and more.

No Emergencies. (FL22E) North Florida– Solo Dr. 2015 projected gross ~$800K, high Price location Reduced! for Jacksonville.

Solo doctor well equipped net, same over 30 years.

Newpractice, lab & X-ray equip.leased on Monument Road. $675K+gross in 2014. No emergencies or alongfacility with some new remodeling-Prx + RE. grooming. (FL42J) Central Florida.– 1 Dr. Prx + RE 2015 projected gross $790K Congratulations Dr. Glenn Smith on the sale of digitalSold!

X-raySuncoast. & In house lab, great to staff.

Sunshine Animal Hospital to Dr. Kristen Brauer.

(FL10C) Sold-Central Fl. Coast– 1 Dr. in a lease space, great location near east Sold! coast Pasco beaches.

County. Congratulations to Dr. Valerie Fucci on the sale of Sold-S.W. Miami– 1.5-2 Dr. in retail space greatSheridan.

Veterinary Rehabilitation and SA Wellness Center to with Dr. David (FL33O) location.

2014 gross $813K. Very profitable.

Sold-Greater Area-1.5 Dr. Prx + RE Andrew Gross $840K Sold! Palm Orlando Beach County: Congratulations to Dr. Faigen on the sale of For Cats Only to Drs. Jeffrey and Stephanie Karpf. (FL28W)

Buyer Representation‌...Valuations‌...Exit Strategies

Contact1610 Dr. Richard Alker further practice information.

Frederica Roadfor * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 Toll Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com 850.814.9962 or Richard@tpsgsales.com Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com

ShowcaseLicensed Properties of Central Florida, Broker Florida Real Estate Broker

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Ready to Sell? Buy? Need an Appraisal?

Practices for Sale – Nationwide!

FL: Brevard County – Motivated! 2,000sf SA with nearly ½ acre landscaped RE in great location. 3-exam rooms. FL82.

FL: Broward County – Priced to Sell! 1,500sf SA w/2-exam rooms in desirable shopping plaza. Has served community for 13 years. FL78.

FL: Charlotte County – Hugh Growth Potential! 1,300sf SA in busy shopping plaza. 2-exam rooms and well-equipped. FL80.

FL: Hillsborough County –A Start-Up Dream! 18,000sf kennel w/3+ acres. Potential to add vet services. Upscale Clientele. FL79.

FL: Martin County – Atlantic Treasure Coast! 1,600sf SA in upscale shopping plaza, minutes to the beach. 2-exam rooms. FL81.

Other Practices Available: Santa Barbara County, California; Jefferson County, Colorado; Washington DC; Baltimore County, Maryland; Bay County & Northwestern UP Michigan; Saint Louis, Missouri; Elmira, New York; Northwestern North Carolina; Cuyahoga County, Ohio; Texas County, Oklahoma; Linn County, Oregon; Northwestern Pennsylvania; Orleans County, Vermont.

Contact us at 1.800.636.4740 for a  FREE APPRAISAL WITH LISTING  FREE Non-Binding, Confidential Consultation!

Email: info@psbroker.com | Visit our website: psbroker.com

Florida Practices for Sale New! Pasco County: Rapidly growing area. $995K+ gross. No Emergencies, grooming or boarding. Leased facility. (FL23N) Charlotte County: 1.75 doctor, small animal practice in leased 1,100SF facility. No Emergencies, boarding or grooming offered. $214K Personal income to buyer.(FL14P) 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) Price Reduced! Jacksonville. Solo doctor practice, well equipped leased facility on Monument Road. $675K+gross in 2014. No emergencies or grooming. (FL42J) Sold! Suncoast. Congratulations to Dr. Glenn Smith on the sale of Sunshine Animal Hospital to Dr. Kristen Brauer. (FL10C) Sold! Pasco County. Congratulations to Dr. Valerie Fucci on the sale of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Wellness Center to Dr. David Sheridan.

(FL33O) Sold! Palm Beach County: Congratulations to Dr. Andrew Faigen on the sale of For Cats Only to Drs. Jeffrey and Stephanie Karpf. (FL28W) 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

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Florida Veterinary Medical Association 7207 Monetary Drive Orlando, FL 32809

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