MDVMA

CT vs. MRI: Understanding Neurodiagnostics for Your Pet

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 22:28:00 GMT

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Summer Conference Exhibitors

Tue, 23 May 2023 11:14:00 GMT

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Washington and Annapolis Offers a “Carrot,” Other states choose the “Stick” to Encourage Employers to Offer Retirement Savings Programs

Tue, 09 May 2023 11:28:00 GMT

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2023 Legislative Update

Tue, 09 May 2023 10:47:00 GMT

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Concern for HB 325 / SB 390 – Provision of Veterinary Services – Routine Medical Care and Rabies Vaccines

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 00:35:00 GMT

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Legislative Update and Request for Your Assistance

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 13:21:00 GMT

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MDVMA Partners with Certified Safety Training to Provide Custom Veterinary OSHA Safety Services

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 17:31:00 GMT

Certified Safety Training offers MDVMA members fully customized and discounted Veterinary OSHA Safety Programs including unlimited online training modules, Certified Safety Data Sheets and dedicated compliance consulting. Veterinary OSHA Compliance Programs give veterinarians and practice managers a comprehensive review of the requirements of select health and safety standards. Each program comes with a written compliance plan, including recordkeeping requirements, fact sheets, customizable forms and other resources. Programs offered are:

MDVMA members receive a 20% discount through the end of 2022.

CST offers an OSHA Hotline as an exclusive benefit for MDVMA members. The hotline, offered at no charge to members, offers immediate answers to pressing questions regarding health and safety compliance.

Members interested in a complete veterinary OSHA safety audit of their facility and in-person training can enlist CST to visit their facility. The in-person experience will include an onsite inspection, a corrective action plan, staff training, and ongoing recordkeeping.

Are You In Compliance?
Complete the 30-Second Veterinary Basic OSHA and Workplace Safety Compliance Checklist

About Certified Safety Training
Certified Safety Training is the leader in veterinarian, funeral home, dental, and health care OSHA compliance. Backed by more than 30 years of industry experience and Certified Safety Professionals, CST matches industry expertise with customizable programming to make sure that customers have the highest-quality safety programs, plans, training, and advice. From bloodborne pathogens to hazard communications to personal protective equipment to dozens of other topics, CST’s Certified Safety Professionals have successfully helped thousands of employees work safer and smarter. For more information, visit www.certifiedsafetytraining.org

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Putting Employees’ Happiness at the Forefront

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:55:00 GMT

People rarely (if ever) go into the veterinary industry without having a true passion for it. You may even remember the specific moment when you decided to have a career in veterinary medicine. Maybe it was when you got your first puppy, your first time riding a horse on a farm, meeting a pet in need or simply a nondescript moment when you realized that working with animals was your calling.

The veterinary industry offers exciting and rewarding opportunities for doctors, veterinary technicians, support staff and practice managers alike who get the chance to care for animals.

Even if that passion never wanes, throughout their career, individuals may find that their aspirations or interests change. Perhaps they discover they want to explore different types of services like caring for exotic pets, performing more extensive surgeries, or adding acupuncture to their practice. Maybe they have new priorities in life that require more of their time. Or, perhaps they simply want to slow down a bit.

Most organizations will offer standard support such as opportunities for continued education or mentorship programs. But life isn’t always so linear. It typically can’t be squeezed into a one-size-fits-all box, and employees can find themselves stuck in a situation that leaves them feeling less than fulfilled, or perhaps worse, burned out.

Create A Better Way to Work

In order to foster a healthy environment and attract and retain team members, it’s important to acknowledge (and celebrate) the varied, ever-changing nature of personal and professional lives, and how they are interwoven. You need to support employees inside and outside the workplace, throughout all stages of their lives.

At VetEvolve, we know from experience that our team members’ career objectives may change over time and what makes them happy today may not be the same thing that will make them happy two, five or 10 years from now. This is especially true for 88.3% of our team members who identify as women, many of whom have started families and need extra grace and accommodation through pregnancy and early parenthood.

Careers are Personal Journeys

A career shouldn’t negatively impact someone’s life outside of work. Instead, it’s possible to tailor each employee’s path to their individual needs while maintaining a productive practice. To do so, approach relationships with employees as a partnership, committing to having open, honest and ongoing conversations starting with the first interview and every single meeting afterward. Each employment arrangement can be customized and flexible as time goes on.

Here are some of the ways you can support your employees through life’s changes:

How To Do It

Flexible, customized career paths can be possible through proactive communication with your employees. Conversations can happen whenever, and as often as necessary, to make sure each person is comfortable with their arrangement.

At VetEvolve, we don’t wait for contract renewal meetings to discuss our employees’ happiness. If there’s a change that we can accommodate, we look to make that change in a thoughtful way with proper planning so that everyone wins. And the benefit to us is not only knowing our staff is getting the support they need, but we also know that happy people are more productive and motivated to do better work.

By strategically and thoughtfully putting your team members’ happiness inside and outside of work at the forefront, not only will you can create a fun, meaningful and supportive environment, you’ll also reap the rewards that come with having a happy workforce. Several studies have shown that happier employees are much more likely to stay with your organization longer and be more productive. That means a happier staff makes for a happier, healthier organization overall.

About the Author

Jessica DeCesare, Chief People Officer at VetEvolve, has spent the past 22 years providing valuable, consultative practice management solutions across a broad range of unique veterinary practices within the U.S. Since joining VetEvolve as Director of Operations in 2016, Jessica has worked intimately with practice teams using her hands-on management experience, proven ability to mentor and develop leaders, and a relatable and collaborative service-focused approach to help them achieve their maximum potential She is a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, member of the Veterinary Hospital Manager Association, International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, and the Society of Human Resource Management.

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2022 FIP Diagnosis Guidelines

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 14:33:00 GMT

The American Association of Feline Practitioners and EveryCat Health Foundation Announce Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Diagnosis Guidelines

BRIDGEWATER, NJ; WYCKOFF, NJ; September 1, 2022 – The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and EveryCat Health Foundation have released the 2022 AAFP/EveryCat Feline Infectious Peritonitis Diagnosis Guidelines . These landmark Guidelines are published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery and will provide veterinarians with the essential information necessary to provide a FIP diagnosis in cats. FIP is a viral disease that can affect any organ in the body and is caused by a feline coronavirus (FCoV).

Click here to access the information

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Meet the DVM Legislative Candidates Running for Office in Maryland

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 17:33:00 GMT

Meet the DVM Legislative Candidates Running for Office in Maryland

MDVMA

Responding to Bullying

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 22:50:00 GMT

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the vast majority of your clients sincerely appreciate your dedication and the quality of care you provide for your patients. That’s why it’s so incredibly difficult when your wellbeing and ability to deliver those services are negatively impacted by bullying, cyber and otherwise. Such has been the case at the Maine Veterinary Medical Center this week and last week.

While the urgent care provided by our colleagues there appears to have resulted in yet another life saved, a news story, augmented by social media, has created a nightmare for veterinarians and their teams at the Center, as well as their families. The abuse they have taken, including what they have described as death threats and threats to burn down the clinic, is unconscionable. We have offered, through our Maine House of Delegates member, the support of our crisis management program and we are contacting the news outlet to express our displeasure with how it covered this heartbreaking situation.

While our hearts go out to the staff of the Center, we are tremendously proud of the support shown for them by other members of our profession across the country. It’s important to know that you are not alone, and our profession has stepped up, doing its best to lend an ear, a shoulder, and other assistance. We also recognize that while this is one of the latest, most visible examples of social bullying, unfortunately, it is not the only one.

For those who are dealing with such attacks, the AVMA has resources to support you and to help you protect your practice’s reputation that are available at avma.org/OnlineReputation . This includes access to a helpline staffed by crisis management experts at Bernstein Crisis Management for those who are facing an immediate cyberbullying situation. (As an AVMA member, you receive up to 30 minutes of free consultation and advice – enough to help you stem the tide of attack in most situations. You also qualify for significant discounts if you want additional consultation.)

We also recognize that, even in the absence of bullying, the stress of difficult cases, challenging clients, and health issues that—despite our best efforts—cannot be fixed, because of their extent or a lack of resources, takes a daily toll. If you or a member of your staff are struggling, please visit avma.org/Wellbeing where you will find additional resources and support.

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Merck Animal Health’s Comprehensive Veterinary Wellbeing Study

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 22:31:00 GMT

Merck Animal Health released findings of its third comprehensive veterinary wellbeing study in partnership with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) examining the wellbeing and mental health of U.S. veterinarians. Conducted in the fall of 2021, it is the first since the COVID-19 pandemic began with a goal to examine and bring critical awareness to the challenges impacting the veterinary profession, while highlighting the impact the pandemic has had on practitioners and staff. For the first time, the study includes responses from veterinary technicians and support staff and their perspectives on the challenges they are currently facing at work.

PowerPoint Presentation (merck-animal-health-usa.com)

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AVMA Advocate – December 2021

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:24:00 GMT

Ensuring veterinarians have access to compounded products

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is in the process of finalizing a guidance document on the use of bulk drug substances for compounding animal medications. As currently written, the draft guidance would not allow the use of compounds made from bulk drug substances to be kept in office stock for administration or dispensing by a veterinarian unless the compound is identified on a list maintained by the FDA.

The AVMA has previously filed comments opposing the use of a list in this manner. As the details of the final guidance become available, the AVMA will evaluate the impact to practice and work to ensure veterinarians have appropriate access to the compounded medications needed to treat our patients.

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FDA resources about people using animal formulations of ivermectin

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 02:42:00 GMT

The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has continued concerns that there are people using animal formulations of ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19 in humans. They have posted the following information:

And in case you need them, here are links to existing resources:

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Are we in a veterinary workforce crisis?

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 20:05:00 GMT

While the delta and lambda variants of SARS-CoV-2 continue to challenge us, we also see hints of post-pandemic normalcy with the return of some in-person meetings, reopened retail establishments, and get-togethers with extended family and friends. Despite these positive signs of recovery, many of us in the veterinary profession are still reeling, professionally and personally, from the pandemic’s effects on our practices, patients, and clients. Stress continues to run high, and our teams are feeling overworked and overwhelmed. Keep reading.

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MDVMA Legislative Committee Responds to Dissenting Opinion in Non-economic Damages Case

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

As reported in the June NewsBytes , Maryland’s highest court ruled in favor of pet owners after hearing the case to consider and address the scope of compensatory damages available in the case of the tortious injury or death of a pet. MDVMA was signatory to the amicus brief filed in the case. While the outcome was favorable for veterinarians, a dissenting opinion was published in The Washington Post following the ruling.

Legislative Committee Chair, Dr. Matthew Weeman, with the assistance of MDVMA’s Lobbyist and the Animal Health Institute, followed up with a response reinforcing our main points that not allowing these types of damages for animals helps animals and their owners by keeping care affordable. Read the response published June 23 in the Capital Gazette .

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Pentobarbital Shortage – CAETA International News Release

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 20:08:00 GMT

Loveland, Colorado, June 1, 2021-In May 2021, the FDA announced a shortage of pentobarbital, the most commonly used drug for humane euthanasia of companion animals. This is due to the unavailability of the active pharmaceutical ingredient at the factory level.

We at the Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy (CAETA), an international animal welfare training group, are working hard to alleviate the fear and stress felt across the world in our veterinary community as a result of this announcement. Our goal is to work collaboratively to prevent panic and hoarding of supplies similar to what we have all lived through with the Covid-19 pandemic.

As we are considered the leading experts in training the art of euthanasia, we feel it is our responsibility to continue to ensure a peaceful passing for all companion animals and advocate for client present euthanasia.

Therefore, we are hard at work researching alternative drugs, developing protocols, and initiating clinical trials.

At the moment our best alternatives are potassium chloride and magnesium sulphate. These salts, when mixed with warm water at the proper concentrations, can be given intravenously to provide euthanasia. However, they must be administered quickly, and the animal must be under general anesthesia in order to effectively achieve a humane death.

[ Start the conversation with us here ]

We maintain hope that pentobarbital will soon be back on the market in sufficient quantities. In the meantime, we will continue to support our veterinary community in providing the latest information combined with our knowledge and experience in the art of gentle and humane euthanasia.

About CAETA
The Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy (CAETA) was founded in 2017 by Kathleen Cooney, DVM, MS, CHPV, CCFP. CAETA brings detailed training to veterinarians and members of the veterinary team, in all aspects of companion animal euthanasia. Coursework topics include drug pharmacology, caregiver and pet considerations, pre-euthanasia sedation protocols, euthanasia techniques, case review, and more. Training is currently offered in the United States and other countries around the world. The program is designed to improve the euthanasia experience for the pet, caregiver, and veterinary team.

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CDC Guidance Until Updated Veterinary Facilities Guidance is Available

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 12:57:00 GMT

The AVMA has been working with CDC on getting the guidance for veterinary facilities updated. The following from CDC is interim direction while work on the update is continuing.

“Veterinary clinics should follow the masking guidance for the general public. While veterinarians are considered clinicians, the settings in which they work are not used to treat humans with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, and instances of animal-to-human transmission appear to be very rare. Veterinary clinics should consider local transmission and vaccination rates when creating clinic policies for PPE use and interactions with clients.”

The following guidance is among that available from the CDC:
When You’ve Been Fully Vaccinated
Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People
Guidance for Unvaccinated People: How to Protect Yourself and Others
Guidance for Unvaccinated People: Wearing Masks
Science Brief: COVID-19 and Vaccinations (Background Rationale)

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Updated Recommendation Concerning Curbside Service

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 22:03:00 GMT

(April 22, 2021) – Back in September 2020, the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners recommended that curbside service was the safest way for most hospitals to operate. Though this was never a requirement, many hospitals implemented and continue to maintain curbside service because it was the Board’s best advice at the time.

Governor Hogan recently announced increased capacity limits on outdoor and indoor dining, retail businesses, religious facilities, and personal services. Masking, physical distancing, and other safety protocols remain in place. ( Read the Press Release .) (Read the Order ).

Because the risk varies widely across the state, and from practice to practice, the Board does not have one recommendation that is now suitable for all practices. The Board is encouraging each practice to consider its own risk and set of circumstances and determine the safest way to operate while following all laws, public health guidance, and keeping the safety of the veterinary staff and clients as the top priority.

If you have not been vaccinated yet, you can sign up for text alerts by texting MdReady to 898211 and visiting the official website often for the most current information at https://covidlink.maryland.gov/content/

Helpful Resources: –

CDC Resuming Business Toolkit (May 21, 2020): https://www.cdc .

License Renewal Opens June 1. Be Sure We Have your Current Contact Info

The portal will open for license renewal on June 1, 2021. All veterinary and hospital licenses must be renewed by June 30, 2021. If you are not practicing, you can renew as late as June 30, 2022, however, a late fee will be charged. RVT licenses are good for three years. RVTs should check their registration certificate to see if they need to renew.

State regulations require that both your personal contact information as well as your employment information be current with the Board.

You can check your personal/home information by logging into your portal account and checking your profile.

Most licensees can check their employment info by going to the public portal , searching on your name and then click on it. If you are practicing at a Maryland hospital, the name of the hospital should come up. If it doesn’t, you need to let us know where you’re working. If you are not practicing in Maryland or you are working in some other area, such as in research or government, please ensure that we have that information in our database. If you’re not sure whether we have it, send it in again.

You can update your personal and employment information online easily . (Please use the email we have on file for you to make any changes.)

IMPORTANT NOTE : If you are a Responsible Veterinarian (which is sometimes referred to as the Medical Director), then you and your hospital owner must notify us within 30 days if you are joining or leaving a practice. You both must send a letter to the Board office. (A signed letter on letterhead that is scanned and emailed in is sufficient.)

REMINDER TO HOSPITAL OWNERS . Every veterinary hospital must have a designated responsible veterinarian at all times and must inform the Board of any change in responsible veterinarians within 30 days . We suggest verifying who the responsible veterinarian of record is, making certain that the responsible veterinarian is aware of the designation and understands the responsibilities that go with it.

Remember – any change in ownership requires a new license and, in some cases, an inspection. For more information .

The Veterinary Practice Act and related Code of Maryland Regulations are on our website for easy reference HERE .

If you have any questions, contact us at mda.veterinaryboard@maryland.gov

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Maryland General Assembly Legislative Session 2021 Report

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 21:51:00 GMT

A Virtual Session

Maryland’s 90-day legislative session began with a lot of uncertainty due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Our presiding officers, Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Adrienne Jones worked all interim on health and safety protocols, incredible technology upgrades and some significant tweaks to the legislative process. Aside from the legislators, press, and a few select staff, the State House complex was closed to lobbyists, advocates, and the general public. Going virtual meant that Compass lobbyists and clients zoomed in to testify in bill hearings, attend work sessions, and meet with legislators.

Working in a new, virtual environment brought new challenges and some unexpected benefits too. While we lost some of the comradery of working side-by-side with Hogan administration officials, staff, and elected officials, the virtual nature brought a lot more transparency to the process and made it easier for many to participate in bill hearings. There were only about 2,500 bills introduced and just about a third, or 800 bills passed and are heading to the Governor for consideration. From now until the end of May, Governor Hogan will consider all the bills passed and can sign them into law, let them become law without his signature, or veto a bill.

Overall, this was the first “quiet” year for MDVMA in recent memory. This session, Compass Government Relations tracked and discussed nearly 40 bills with MDVMA’s legislative committee.

Veterinary Issues

SB 156 (Sen. Kramer) The Veterinary Care of Retired Law Enforcement K-9s Act – PASSED
MDVMA has offered testimony for several years on this legislation that will create a fund to support retired law enforcement dogs. Oftentimes, they are adopted by their professional partners and work until they are nearly ready to retire. Providing for comfortable end of life and regular veterinary care for our K-9 state and local law enforcement employees makes sense and we were pleased to see the bill pass this year.

HB 381 (Del. Long) Animal Shelters – Standards of Operation – FAILED TO PASS
This legislation would have imposed stricter standards for animal shelters to achieve a 90% save rate, effectively converting government-run shelters into no-kill operations. Although well- intentioned, this legislation would have strained limited local budgets and shelter resources and led to reduced acceptance rates. The Maryland Department of Agriculture was very concerned about this legislation, and discussed opposing the bill with MDVMA. Ultimately, the bill was withdrawn before the hearing.

Legal Issues

HB 234 (Del. N. Williams) – Criminal Law – Harm to Service Animals – PASSED
MDVMA strongly supported this legislation. From the testimony of MDVMA’s Legislative Chairman, Dr. Matthew Weeman: As veterinarians we have all sworn an oath to use our scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources and the promotion of public health.

HB 234 is a multifaceted component of this sworn oath. Service animals perform critical work which cannot be quickly retrained or developed. Significant costs are incurred to achieve the training standards required to perform these functions. It is critical that all service animals are provided the protective benefit of state statutes to ensure their work can continue unencumbered. Individuals who depend on service animals can be debilitated following the loss of their animal; it is critical we protect them. Additionally, establishing strict guidelines for addressing situations which may arise to quickly mitigate the economic damages and impacts to individuals that depend on these animals is important while also reducing suffering and to ensure care of an injured service animal.

HB 1080/SB 760 (Del. Moon/Sen. Ready) Animal Cruelty – Petition for Costs for Care of Seized Animal – FAILED TO PASS
After several conversations with the House Bill sponsor, MDVMA ultimately supported legislation that would allow individuals to file a petition for costs of care to the owner of an animal that is held while a court hearing for animal cruelty is occurring. County-operated animal shelters or control agencies can incur significant costs for caring for animals, especially in cases that require special treatment to restore the animal’s health. This bill would have put in place a process for county entities and nonprofit shelters to reasonably recoup their costs. Unfortunately, this bill did not advance in the 2021 General Assembly after its public hearing. MDVMA plans to meet and discuss the issue more with the sponsors over the interim.

HB 32/SB 708 (Del. J. Lewis/Sen. Feldman) – Recreational Cannabis – FAILED TO PASS
This legislation would have created a recreational cannabis regulatory and taxation framework with an emphasis on social equity. Typically, MDVMA tracks cannabis issues in the event they may impact the profession, in the past we’ve seen proposed bills adding veterinarians as authorized prescribers for CBD and had multiple discussions with the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Health about guidance on CBD products for veterinary patients.

HB 154/SB 292 (Del. Bartlett/Sen. Beidle) – Increased Penalties for Causing Injury or Death to a Pet – FAILED TO PASS
At the request of the House sponsor, Delegate Sandy Bartlett, MDVMA supported this legislation that would have increased from $10,000 to $25,000 the maximum amount of damages that may be awarded to an owner of a pet from a person who purposely injures or kills a pet while acting individually or through an animal under the person’s ownership, direction, or control. Compass also discussed the bill with policy experts at AVMA to ensure correct positioning and advocacy on the bill, which unfortunately, failed to pass.

Economic and Employment Issues

HB 612/SB 496 (Speaker of the House and Senate President on Behalf of Governor Hogan) – Passed, and signed into law
This enormous package of state support for individuals, small business, and local governments was a bi-partisan effort to support Maryland families and businesses impacted by the pandemic. Known as the RELIEF Act, it included direct cash payments to Marylanders, funding to address learning loss, acquire PPE or other things necessary (like tech upgrades) to keep organizations running during the pandemic and a swath of new grant and loan programs covering everything from rural and agriculture-based business support, housing, community health providers, entertainment venues and Main Street programs, behavioral health, child care, and more. At MarylandTaxes.gov, there is a county-by-county list of COVID-19 Relief programs funded by the passage of this bill.

SB 787 (Sen. President Ferguson) Protecting Maryland Small Businesses from Digital Ad Taxes -PASSED
Last year, Maryland passed the nation’s first tax on the revenue from digital advertisements sold by companies like Facebook, Google and Amazon. The tax applies to revenue from digital ads that are displayed inside the state and is based on the ad sales a company generates. A company that makes at least $100 million a year in global revenue but no more than $1 billion a year will face a 2.5% percent tax on its ads. Companies that make more than $15 billion a year will pay a 10% tax. Facebook’s and Google’s global revenues far exceed $15 billion. This new tax is already facing court challenges.

The bill introduced and passed this session, SB 787, prohibits advertisers from directly passing on the cost of the tax to customers by means of separate fees, surcharges or other line-item charges. The bill also suspends the effective date of the new tax for one year. MDVMA tracked the progress of this bill very closely due to the number of veterinary offices which use digital ads as an effective and affordable marketing tool.

SB 211/HB 375 (Del. Valderrama/Sen. Hayes) – The Time to Care Act – FAILED TO PASS
This bill establishes a family and medical leave insurance program that employees may take up to 12 weeks of paid leave in Maryland. The Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program funded through shared employee and employer contributions, providing up to 24 weeks of benefits to covered individuals. The MDVMA Legislative Committee had a robust discussion about the issue. Seeking to balance the concern that employers would have incurred significant costs as a result of paying half of the FAMLI contribution rate versus a discussion of industry-standard leave benefits. Ultimately, MDVMA did not take a position on the bill this year, but we expect re-introduction in the 2022 legislative session.

HB 581/SB 486 (Chairman Davis/Sen. Augustine) Maryland Essential Workers’ Protection Act – AMENDED AND PASSED
MDVMA registered concerns about the bill as originally introduced which would have required counties and many frontline businesses to pay additional hazard pay, implement a new program for bereavement and health leave, reimburse employee healthcare costs, and allow employees the right to refuse to work. The bill was heavily amended – strongly easing the business community’s concerns – to eliminate hazard pay provisions, ensure health leave only applies prospectively and includes verification, narrowing the scope of who/what an essential worker is, and conforming the right to refuse provision to existing language under law. Finally, the bill only creates emergency standards for the current pandemic and would not apply to future states of emergency. The provisions of the legislation expire 6 months after the current state of emergency ends.

Health Care Issues

In this somewhat quiet and atypical session, there were fewer health care issues than usually introduced that impact veterinarians. This session the health committees focused primarily on responding to the pandemic, getting regular updates about vaccination efforts, funding local departments of health, addressing racial health disparities and behavioral health issues.

As always, the officials at MDA are a pleasure to work with and the SBVME helps us keep an eye out for concerning bills MDVMA should be aware of. Compass does fairly regular check-ins with MDA to ensure we’re all working together to protect and support Maryland Veterinarians. It’s also been a pleasure working with your association for so many years and we look forward to a continued partnership in 2021.

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Flood Season Begins – Reminder of AVMA Family Resources

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 19:21:00 GMT

The spring flood season is upon us. Several of your states/territories have already experienced significant flooding. Much more will very likely be on the way in some areas of the country during the coming months.

We want you to know that the AVMA Family stands ready to assist your members in any way we can. Sending the following information to your members BEFORE an incident develops may help some to take proactive measures to be better prepared. For example, all veterinary practices should take this opportunity to review their need for flood insurance and also review the specifics of any existing coverage. Many practice owners erroneously believe that flood insurance is part of their normal business coverage.

Some AVMA Family resources that are available to your members include:

If you become aware of specific members who become impacted by a flood event (or any other disaster/emergency), please pass along their contact information and we will be happy to reach out to them individually to help them know of all AVMA Family resources. Please let us know if you have any further questions, or further information that may help us be more aware of situations as they develop.

P.S. If your VMA has a designated disaster contact individual, please send me that information and I will be pleased to communicate with them also.

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COVID-19 Update

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 19:18:00 GMT

The AVMA has been actively advocating at the federal level on behalf of veterinarians as the COVID crisis has evolved. Last night, in his address to the nation on the next phase of the National Strategy for the COVID pandemic response, President Biden focused on the effort to accelerate vaccination, stating that the plans to expand the pool of qualified personnel eligible to administer vaccines will include veterinarians and veterinary students.

AVMA is here to help you understand what this means for you and your teams &38211; and to continue to advocate on your behalf.

Enabling veterinarians to assist with vaccination efforts

As the conversation about utilizing veterinarians for administering COVID vaccines to people has accelerated over the past several months, the AVMA has been in direct and ongoing conversation with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This has included direct discussion with the HHS, CDC and FEMA teams responsible for coordinating the vaccine response. On February 17, AVMA submitted a formal request to HHS asking that veterinary professionals be listed as a “qualified person” in connection with COVID declarations under the federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act), which authorizes the HHS secretary to issue emergency public health declarations and provides limited immunity from liability to those covered under the act.

AVMA’s message has been consistent: If veterinarians are to be asked to help administer COVID vaccines to people, veterinarians need to be clearly authorized to do so, and they must be explicitly included among those covered by the liability immunity.

We’re pleased to tell you that AVMA’s efforts on your behalf have been successful. The acting HHS secretary today issued an amendment to the PREP Act declarations that specifically addresses veterinarians and veterinary students.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TODAY’S ACTION:

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

AVMA is working to develop additional resources to assist those who choose to volunteer in this effort, such as guidance on CPR certification and other requirements. We will continue to advocate on your behalf and provide you with breaking updates as the vaccination program expands. Please check in regularly at avma.org/Coronavirus for developing information.

The following federal government resources also provide additional information:

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Joint Statement from AAVMC/AVMA Regarding Mental Health and Suicide in the Veterinary Profession

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 18:47:00 GMT

This has been a difficult year for many, and in the past week we have heard reports of veterinary colleagues who have died by suicide. Mental health concerns are complex and multi-faceted, and although we may not fully understand what an individual is experiencing, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) know that our profession can work to offer hope and help save lives. There are supports and resources available for those personally struggling—and for those searching for a way to best support a colleague or loved one who is struggling. We are not alone in veterinary medicine. We share our grief and concerns with many of our fellow health professionals. There is hope and a path forward with compassion, connection, evidence-based practices, and working in collaboration with suicide prevention experts.

In November 2019, a toolkit for colleges of veterinary medicine was created by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in partnership with the AVMA and the AAVMC. This toolkit provides guidance in the event of a death by suicide of a student within a school or college of veterinary medicine. This toolkit contains strategies for helping the veterinary medical community:

In September 2020, a similar toolkit for veterinary workplaces was created by the ASFP and the AVMA in partnership with the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America, Veterinary Medical Association Executives and the Veterinary Hospital Manager’s Association.

Because of the risk of suicide contagion related to the amount, duration, prominence, and content of media coverage, it is important that media reporting adheres to safe reporting guidelines . When we share news about an individual’s death by suicide, it is very important that the information shared is accurate, factual, consistent with harm reduction measures, and honors the family’s requests, including any requests for privacy.

Media posts and postvention efforts must also take into consideration the cultural diversity of everyone affected by a suicide, including the family, workplace, and community. Culture may significantly affect the way people view and respond to suicide and death. Therefore, it is important to be sensitive to the beliefs and customs of the decedent’s family and community, and potential perceptions regarding individuals outside of the family or community intervening to provide support.

The AVMA’s Jen Brandt, Director of Wellbeing, Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives, and the AAVMC’s Makenzie Peterson, Director for Wellbeing, will be hosting a webinar for the veterinary community on a systems-based approach to supporting mental health and suicide on Thursday, March 18 ^th , from 1pm-3pm EST. This webinar will provide information, education, and support, with resources developed in collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Webinar registration information will be forthcoming.

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Federal requirements for the veterinarian-client-patient relationship

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 19:44:00 GMT

THE BASICS
The federal government regulates veterinary medicine and animal drugs very differently than it does human health care and drugs intended for human use. This is, in part, because veterinarians are key to maintaining a healthy, safe, and wholesome food supply and because they also play an important role in overseeing the judicious use of antimicrobials in animals. One important difference between human and veterinary medicine is that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authority under the federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) over the use of animal drugs and human drugs by veterinarians, and the authority to define how a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is established for certain uses of animal and human drugs.1 For these uses, FDA has authority to require the keeping of veterinary medical records and to access them at any reasonable time to verify and copy them.2 Use of animal and human drugs by veterinarians that violates the federal VCPR parameters set forth in the FDCA and its implementing regulations results in the drug being statutorily deemed unsafe for the use and, if in animal feed, the feed is statutorily deemed adulterated.3

The USDA, which regulates veterinary biological products, also has promulgated rules defining a VCPR using the same language as the FDA.4

APPLICATION OF THE FEDERAL VCPR
The federal VCPR applies to any use of an FDA-approved human drug in animals, including over-the-counter (OTC) human drugs.5 It applies to any use of an FDA-approved animal drug in any manner that di ers from its approved labeling (Extra Label Drug Use6), such as a different frequency of administration, different dose, different medical indication for its use, different route of administration, or use in a different species.7 It also applies to the use of compounded drugs by veterinarians8 and a veterinarian’s authorization of a veterinary feed directive (VFD).9 All of these are very common occurrences in the day-to-day practice of veterinary medicine.

Establishing the federal VCPR requires a physical examination of the animal or timely and medically appropriate visits to the premises where animals are kept. The FDA does not allow the VCPR to be established through electronic means.10 FDA does allow the VCPR to be maintained electronically through telemedicine.11 Veterinarians must comply with the federal VCPR in each of the circumstances in which it applies, irrespective of whether state law defines it differently.

The federal VCPR also applies in two important, but more limited, circumstances under USDA authorities. Veterinarians who manufacture biological products for use in their patients must do so within the context of the federal VCPR.12 Veterinarians also must have established a federal VCPR when using prescription platform product biologics, which are a new category of biotechnology vaccines.13

CONFLICTING STATE AND FEDERAL VCPR DEFINITIONS AND TELEMEDICINE

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AVMA provides tools, support for veterinary COVID-19 vaccines

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 01:26:00 GMT

As veterinary professionals watch the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines and work to build support for appropriate vaccine access for the veterinary community, the AVMA has published a suite of resources to help veterinary teams prepare for and participate in the vaccine rollout.

AVMA’s COVID-19 resource center now includes these resources at avma.org/COVIDvaccine :

This information will help veterinarians and our practices prepare for the opportunity to be vaccinated.

Building support for vaccine access by veterinarians and teams

The AVMA has advocated actively and successfully at the federal level for veterinary personnel to be considered a priority group for vaccination and continues to do so. Written with input from the AVMA , the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s recommendations – a key resource in guiding state and local decision-makers in planning their vaccine rollouts – are consistent with veterinarians and veterinary team members being included in one of the early stages of distribution. Veterinary personnel also have consistently been included in federal documents describing essential work sectors during the pandemic.

Tactical decisions about how to distribute COVID-19 vaccines, though, are in the hands of state, territorial, and local officials. With this in mind, AVMA is supporting state and local veterinary groups as they monitor vaccine rollout plans and advocate for veterinary teams’ appropriate access.

Several states have indicated they plan to include veterinary personnel in phases 1a, b, or c of their rollouts. However, it’s not yet clear where veterinarians fall in the distribution framework in many states. To learn more about vaccine priorities in your area, connect with your state or local veterinary association .

Veterinarians as vaccinators

There is an emerging discussion around the potential for veterinarians to assist in vaccinating people against COVID-19. While this possibility is not actively being considered in most states at this time, some states have contemplated it as a way to expand the personnel pool and help expedite administration (assuming sufficient vaccine is available), making specific mention in executive orders and/or asking potential veterinarian volunteers to identify themselves.

As veterinarians consider serving in this role, one important thing we must keep in mind is a potential legal risk. While we have a natural desire to help and serve others, this is a necessary consideration in our litigious society. The AVMA’s vaccination FAQ addresses this question in detail, including a range of factors to consider.

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Maryland Moving to Phase 1C Monday

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 19:38:00 GMT

Maryland moved into Phase 1B this week and will be expanding into Phase 1C on January 25. If you haven’t done so already, you may want to contact your local health department as veterinary professionals are included in Phase 1C.

We are hearing that veterinary professionals in some counties have received the vaccine, however supply is still limited and subject to availability in each county.

Phase 1B means that all residents 75 years of age and older are eligible to receive the vaccine now. Next week. residents 65 years of age and older will be eligible as well.

To watch the Governor’s press conference, click HERE .

Click HERE to find a vaccination clinic near you.

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VMCVM Public Health & Wellness Webinars

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 21:40:00 GMT

In the Nov 17-19 Public Health and Wellness events, we aimed to transform feelings of isolation and fear into a network of community and compassion. What happened, indirectly, was a journey through the experiences of 25 individuals, exposing vulnerabilities that led to validation, acceptance, and to a place of mutual understanding.

It is possible that you, like others who have attended these events have attested, feel a connection as you view these presentations. We hope, that if even in some small way, you feel you are validated, more comfortable in your own skin, better prepared to take the next step, or more confident in who you are or who you hope to become.

Watch Recordings

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Host a Clinical Year Student

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 21:55:00 GMT

MDVMA members are encouraged to host students by sharing clerkship opportunities in their practice.

VMCVM has many resources in place for students during COVID, including providing PPE to each student to take with them on their external experiences. In addition, students must complete a symptom questionnaire each day that is monitored by the college.

If your practice is interested in hosting students contact Dr. Jacque Pelzer to be added to the clerkship database.

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Veterinarians Vaccinating People Against COVID

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 21:53:00 GMT

Source: AVMA Division of State Advocacy

There has been some discussion about the potential for veterinarians to assist in the vaccination of humans against COVID. Potential interest on the part of some veterinarians is understandable as the profession often responds to disasters and we naturally want to help. We know that having veterinarians volunteer to assist in vaccinating humans is not under consideration currently in most states. There are however some states where there have been preliminary discussions or even requests for potential volunteers to identify themselves.

As organizations consider the topic, one critical issue to keep in mind is a potential legal risk. This is an unfortunate but necessary consideration given our litigious society. Here are some preliminary thoughts to consider.

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Updates on veterinarians assisting in the vaccination of humans against COVID

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 19:07:00 GMT

There has been some discussion about the potential for veterinarians to assist in the vaccination of humans against COVID. Potential interest on the part of some veterinarians is understandable as the profession often responds to disasters and we naturally want to help. We know that having veterinarians volunteer to assist in vaccinating humans is not under consideration at this time in most states. There are however some states where there have been preliminary discussions or even requests for potential volunteers to identify themselves.

As organizations consider the topic, one important issue to keep in mind is potential legal risk. This is an unfortunate but necessary consideration given our litigious society. Here are some preliminary thoughts to consider. We had hoped to have more information for you, but wanted to get something to you now and will update you as we have more information.

However, in the end that doesn’t settle everything for us, as there are a number of appellate cases saying the immunity provided is not 100% (e.g. doesn’t cover failure to use a countermeasure), and even the Secretary’s declaration says that there would be a case-by-case determination. For veterinarians, since malpractice insurance wouldn’t likely respond and defend against litigation involving treatment of humans, any defense costs would be out of pocket even if it was determined in the lawsuit that the immunity applied.

Ashley S. Morgan, DVM, CAE
Director | Division of State Advocacy
American Veterinary Medical Association

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COVID-19 vaccines and vaccinations

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:03:00 GMT

The post COVID-19 vaccines and vaccinations appeared first on MDVMA .

Veterinarian Status as Vaccine Priority Group

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 00:21:00 GMT

Yesterday, January 4, a letter from MDVMA on behalf of its members was sent to the Governor and secretaries of the departments of agriculture and health requesting that veterinarians and veterinary team members be included and listed, after front-line health workers, for receiving the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.

As of this writing, we have not received confirmation that veterinarians and their staff have been assigned to a specific phase of the vaccination rollout plan, however, prioritization is subject to change.

In the meantime, we will monitor the process and continue to seek clarification. When more information is available, we will provide another update.

Click to view the Maryland COVID-19 Data Dashboard .

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The Maryland Veterinarian – Winter Issue 2020

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:47:00 GMT

Winter Issue 2020

Read Winter Issue

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COVID relief and spending bill address veterinary priorities

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 16:57:00 GMT

Congress has passed a fourth COVID-19 relief bill and a comprehensive spending package to fund the government for the remainder of fiscal year (FY) 2021. These packages include many of AVMA’s top advocacy priorities, including fixing the unfavorable IRS tax treatment of expenses paid with Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, streamlined PPP loan forgiveness for loans of up to $150,000, up to $20 million for animal health infrastructure’s role in the COVID-19 response, AVMA-led One Health report language, and funding for key federal programs important to veterinary medicine.

Leveraging the AVMA Ambassador program and the AVMA PAC, the AVMA Advocacy team aggressively lobbied the House and Senate to stress the importance of including the PPP tax fix and simplified loan forgiveness provisions in the final bill.

When they created the PPP program, Congress intended for recipients to be able to deduct the payroll costs and other expenses covered by forgiven loans, even though the loans themselves are tax-free income. The tax fix reverses the IRS ruling that denied the deductions and, depending upon where a veterinarian lives, will mean that up to 40% of the amount of a PPP loan stays within the veterinary practice instead of being paid in taxes.

The simplified loan forgiveness provision will establish a one-page, easy to complete form to apply for forgiveness of loans up to $150,000. Most veterinary practices will qualify for this simplified process, as 80% of the PPP loans obtained by veterinary practices meet this threshold.

“The AVMA’s tireless advocacy efforts have paid off for the veterinary profession,” said Dr. Kent McClure, AVMA’s Chief Government Relations Officer. “For the almost 60% of U.S. veterinary practices that took PPP loans, the tax fix will keep significant funds within the practices, and the simplified loan forgiveness application will make their lives easier. The AVMA-led coordinated effort to obtain report language in the funding legislation that directs federal agencies to coordinate their One Health activities is an important step in better addressing health issues at the intersection of animal health, human health, and the environment.”

What’s in the COVID-19 relief legislation?

The legislation includes:

Other notable provisions in the legislation include an additional $300 per week of federal unemployment insurance until March 14, 2021, a second stimulus check of $600 for qualifying adults, $1200 for couples filing jointly, and $600 for dependents, rental assistance, funding to address COVID-related impacts on farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, and funding for education and vaccine testing.

Additionally, the bill extends the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) until June 30, 2021. The C4 legislation also increased the credit rate from 50% to 70% of qualified wages and increased the limit per-employee from $10,000 per year to $10,000 for each quarter. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) borrowers may also still qualify for ERTC with respect to wages that are not paid for with forgiven PPP proceeds.

For details on federal stimulus programs available to the veterinary profession, visit AVMA’s COVID-19 resource center ( avma.org/Coronavirus ).

What does the government funding bill mean for the veterinary profession?

AVMA federal funding priorities were addressed in the FY 2021 funding bill passed by Congress:

The president is expected to sign the legislation.

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Industry News

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 21:59:00 GMT

AGNR Showcases Leadership and Innovation Across One Health

UMD Researcher Receives NIH Funding to Develop a Novel Approach to Vaccination

Check-in With New Owners to Prevent Surrenders

The Ins and Outs of Severe Equine Asthma

Moose Davis, Beloved Therapy Dog, Remembered for Exemplary Life of Service

Universities Partner to Study Antimicrobial Use in Food Animal Production

Christmas Comedy Cracker for Veterinary Professionals

Large Animal Veterinarians Practice as Normal During COVID

Veterinary Social Work Summit Focuses on Animals, Poverty

New Cat Food Reduces Allergen Found in Cat Hair & Dander

New Vaccine for Free-Range Cattle Protects Against Fetal Calf Loss

IRS Clarifies Stance on No Deductibility of Expenses Paid With PPP Funds

Saying Thank You to Your Employees

Advanced Diagnostics Help Battle Evolving Pinkeye Challenges

The post Industry News appeared first on MDVMA .

Clinical Year Students

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 21:57:00 GMT

MDVMA members are encouraged to host students by sharing clerkship opportunities in their practice.

If your practice is interested in hosting students contact Dr. Jacque Pelzer to be added to the clerkship database.

The post Clinical Year Students appeared first on MDVMA .

PDMP Registration Requirements and PDMP Access for Veterinarians with CDS Licenses

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:35:00 GMT

Dear Maryland Veterinarians,

Thank you for your continued efforts to safely prescribe and dispense controlled dangerous substances (CDS) in Maryland while protecting and promoting animal health and welfare. This letter seeks to provide guidance regarding the registration and use of PDMP by veterinarians.

Registration
Under HB437 (Chapter 147, 2016), all CDS prescribers and pharmacists licensed to dispense CDS in Maryland must be registered with the PDMP by July 1, 2017. Effective February 15, 2018, a prescriber must be PDMP-registered before being issued a new or renewal CDS Permit by the Office of Controlled Substances Administration (OCSA). Providers only need to register once for the PDMP and registration is free.

Veterinarians who wish to prescribe CDS for an animal in Maryland are required by law to be registered with the PDMP. Veterinarians need to demonstrate that they are PDMP-registered when they apply for a new or renewal CDS Permit.

If a veterinarian does not have a CDS registration they are not subject to the PDMP registration use mandate. If you are not registered, you can initiate registration from the PDMP Webpage here: https://crisphealth.org/services/prescription-drug-monitoring-program-pdmp/pdmpregistration/

If you are unsure if you are registered you can confirm your registration status and obtain your Confirmation Code with one simple step, navigate to the PDMP auto-registration front page ( https://crisphealth.force.com/crispregkeydata ) then select your health profession. Enter your license and DEA numbers. Finally, enter the red characters displayed in the gray window and hit “Submit.”

If you are registered, the system will display your PDMP Registration Confirmation Code and your email account on record and will stop you from re-registering. You will also be emailed a copy of your Confirmation Code. If you are not registered, the system will take you to the next step of registration, confirming your name.

PDMP Access
While veterinarians are required to be PDMP-registered in order to obtain a new or renewed CDS Permit, the PDMP statute does not grant veterinarians the authority to review PDMP data. Therefore, veterinarians are not subject to the use mandate, nor are they allowed to log into CRISP and query PDMP data even outside the use mandate. Per Health General §21-2A-06, prescription monitoring data are confidential and privileged and may be disclosed to prescribers or dispensers (or their delegates) in connection with the medical care of a patient, which does not include veterinarian care of animal. Veterinarians do not have a legally authorized use case to access the PDMP. Veterinarians cannot check the PDMP for pet owners because they do not have a clinical relationship with the owner, they only have a clinical relationship with the pet.

For more information about PDMP registration or CDS prescribing or dispensing, please visit MarylandPDMP.org or contact the PDMP or OCSA.

Sincerely,

Susannah Beckerman, MA
Deputy Director
Office of Provider Engagement and Regulation

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AVMA prepares response to FDA draft compounding guidance

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 14:56:00 GMT

Based on feedback from member veterinarians and other stakeholders, the AVMA has compiled a list of key points to share with the FDA in our formal comments on the proposed FDA Draft Guidance for Industry #256: Compounding Animal Drugs from Bulk Substances .

The deadline for commenting on the draft guidance is October 15, 2020. The AVMA has been gathering input from members and others since the proposed guidance was released in November 2019.

AVMA’s formal comments to the FDA will include, among others, support for these provisions:

AVMA’s comments will express concern regarding these provisions:

Learn more about the draft guidance

A free webinar on AVMA Axon, Compounding: Understanding FDA draft guidance , shares more information about the draft guidance, including:

The webinar gives important background to help veterinarians provide informed feedback on the proposed guidance. AVMA also has prepared a summary of the proposal’s key points . If you would like to submit your own feedback to the FDA, public comments on draft GFI #256 will be accepted until the October 15, 2020, deadline. To submit comments electronically, visit www.regulations.gov and type FDA-2018-D-4533 in the search box.

Explore AVMA compounding resources

AVMA provides numerous resources to help veterinarians navigate the fine points of prescribing and using compounded medications. Visit avma.org/Compounding for definitions, answers to frequently asked questions, AVMA policies on compounding, and other tools.

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About Curbside Service

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 01:54:00 GMT

The Board office has received a number of complaints from consumers who do not like curbside service. You have probably heard the same complaints. We want to clarify the Board’s position.

Although you are required to operate in a manner that adheres to the Governor’s Executive Orders and local laws, and is consistent with CDC guidelines, you are not required to provide strict curbside service IF you can operate safely some other way, based on the physical size and configuration of your facility. The Board believes curbside service is the safest way for most hospitals to operate under current conditions and it remains our general recommendation, but it is not a requirement.

Although Governor Hogan has announced the start of Phase III, we are not back to business as usual.

However you choose to operate, you should still maintain social distancing as much as possible and require all staff to wear masks at all times. If you let clients in, they too should be masked the entire time.

Please remind your client that curbside services protect you, your staff, and your families – not just clients who may be willing to take a higher risk.

Elizabeth Callahan, DVM

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New webinar explains proposed rules on bulk compounding

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 16:13:00 GMT

An AVMA blog post ( New webinar explains proposed rules on bulk compounding ) relays information about a new on-demand webinar on AVMA Axon that shares more information about the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Draft Guidance for Industry #256, which addresses veterinary drug compounding from bulk substances. The webinar, presented by an FDA veterinarian, gives important background to help veterinarians provide informed feedback on FDA’s proposed guidance while it’s open for public comment. The AVMA requested an extension of the deadline for commenting and believe it will be granted this week. AVMA members should email feedback about the draft guidance to compounding@avma.org .

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Update on USP compounding activities

Tue, 26 May 2020 15:01:00 GMT

By: Ashley S. Morgan, DVM, CAE, Director | Division of State Advocacy, American Veterinary Medical Association

In 2018, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP)—the organization that develops and disseminates public compendial quality standards for medicines and other articles—published proposed revisions to General Chapters <795> and <797> of Pharmaceutical Compounding regarding nonsterile and sterile preparations, respectively. The AVMA received input from our councils and committees, various species-specific veterinary organizations and members, then met with USP staff to provide feedback on the revisions. On June 1, 2019, the USP posted updated revisions, and AVMA again provided feedback. AVMA sent an appeal, shared supporting information at the USP Compounding Expert Committee’s meeting on August 8, and also submitted a resolution related to the creation of a veterinary specific-compounding chapter that was considered by the USP at their annual meeting earlier this month.

At this May meeting, USP passed Resolution # 9 at the request of AVMA and additional stakeholders that states: “ New and revised standards for compounding, including beyond-use dates, will be developed based on data, scientific evidence, and input from recognized healthcare professionals and state and federal regulators .” The white paper accompanying the resolution specifically identifies veterinary medicine as an area needing practical, focused standards, indicating that: “…through stakeholder engagement, USP has learned of the request for standards specific to veterinary practitioners, who treat a range of species and practice in varied settings and environments…”

The Chairs of the Expert Committees have also been appointed and Brenda Jensen, CPhT, CNMT, MBA has been selected to Chair the Expert Committee on Compounding. The AVMA’s liaison to the USP and member of the Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents, Dr. Michael Strobel has applied for membership on the Committee and will learn whether he has been appointed late in June.

This is a “win” for the AVMA and the veterinary profession and we are excited that USP pharmaceutical standards applicable to veterinary medicine will be developed with engagement from the veterinary community. We look forward to collaborating with the USP during development and will continue to update you as additional information becomes available.

Previous blog posts on this topic:

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Docket No. FDA-2018-D-4533; Compounding Animal Drugs From Bulk Drug Substances; Draft Guidance for Industry; Availability

Wed, 20 May 2020 14:36:00 GMT

The American Veterinary Medical Association respectfully requests at least a 120-day extension to the comment period for Docket ID: FDA-2018-D-4533; Compounding Animal Drugs From Bulk Drug Substances; Draft Guidance for Industry; Availability.

The COVID-19 pandemic has required the AVMA to focus its efforts on ensuring veterinary practices are deemed essential businesses and providing information and resources for veterinarians so that they are able to continue protecting animal health and welfare and public health, while ensuring to the greatest extent possible the safety of their practice teams and clients. As such, we have not been able to gather feedback from our membership as we normally would.

We thank the FDA for considering our request to extend the comment period. For questions regarding the AVMA’s request, please contact Dr. Dharati Szymanski (847-285-6742; dszymanski@avma.org) or Dr. Ashley Morgan (202-289-3210; amorgan@avma.org).

Click Here to Download the full request for at least a 120-day extension to the comment period on FDA’s draft GFI #256.

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Updated version of CDC’s Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Veterinary Clinics Treating Companion Animals During the COVID-19 Response

Mon, 04 May 2020 20:53:00 GMT

The CDC just notified us that the agency has posted an updated version of Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Veterinary Clinics Treating Companion Animals During the COVID-19 Response . Revisions were made to clarify PPE recommendations based on situational risk factors and to update guidance for returning to normal clinic practices.

We sincerely appreciate the CDC’s attention to AVMA members’ concerns regarding the original document. A review of the updated version indicates CDC was able to accommodate many of our requested revisions and within a very short internal agency clearance window. In addition, the document now points directly to some of the AVMA’s resource materials.

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Testing Animals for SARS-CoV-2

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:06:00 GMT

For your information, IDEXX issued a press release this morning on its new commercially available IDEXX SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) RealPCR Test for animals. A link to that press release appears below, along with links to a diagnostic update, and FAQs and product information page.

AVMA updated its website to include additional information on animal testing yesterday, including creating a new webpage Testing Animals for SARS-CoV-2 , as well as updating our FAQs. CDC has also updated its guidance here: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Additional information is available from:

Current expert understanding is that SARS-CoV-2 is primarily transmitted person-to-person. People have spread the virus to certain animals, but this appears to be rare. Currently, there is no evidence that animals incidentally infected in this way spread COVID-19 to people. For these reasons, AVMA, CDC, USDA, AAVLD, NASPHV, and IDEXX DO NOT recommend routine testing for animals for SARS-CoV-2. Because the situation is ever-evolving, public health and animal health officials may decide to test certain animals following specific criteria (see AVMA webpage for more information). In the United States, the decision to test should be made collaboratively between the attending veterinarian and local, state, and/or federal public health and animal health officials.

Please refer to USDA’s frequently asked questions for sample collection, transport, storage, and reporting of results. If samples are sent to state animal health, university, or private laboratories for initial testing, all samples should be collected by a licensed and, preferably, USDA-accredited veterinarian and in duplicate because positive samples must be confirmed through additional testing by the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL). The USDA is responsible for reporting any animal that tests positive for SARS-CoV-2 in the United States to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) .

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Updates and reminder of discussion with GRD

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:08:00 GMT

Ashley S. Morgan, DVM, CAE, Director of the Division of State Advocacy for American Veterinary Medical Association, shared the following:

A few updates:
(1) AVMA has launched a new (hopefully more user-friendly!) COVID-19 landing page: www.avma.org/coronavirus . Two items raised during previous discussions and now addressed on the website: the international perspective and the use of masks following CDC’s recommendation to wear cloth face coverings . This is what’s currently on the AVMA website regarding face coverings (but information related to COVID-19 seems to change rapidly so check back often or reach out to us with questions):

CDC recommends the use of cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. The purpose of the use of face coverings is to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have SARS-CoV-2 and do not know it from transmitting it to others. The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those should be continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders. A publication in the Lancet suggests that it would be reasonable that vulnerable individuals avoid crowded areas and use surgical facemasks rationally when exposed to high-risk areas. Facemasks should be used by people with symptoms of COVID-19 to avoid spreading the disease to others and facemasks are also important for healthcare workers and people who are taking care of someone at home or in a healthcare facility.

(2) Here is a resource from OSHA on Ten Steps All Workplaces Can Take to Reduce Risk of Exposure to Coronavirus. Click here to download the resource .

(3) Please join American Veterinary Medical Association tomorrow, April 10 ^th , at 2:30pm ET for an informal discussion/Q&A with AVMA’s Government Relations Division. We have a few updates from Capitol Hill and are happy to answer any other questions. No two discussions are the same!

Q&A with AVMA Government Relations Division
Friday, April 10, 2020— 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM (EDT)
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/335986541

You can also dial in using your phone.
United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073
Access Code: 335-986-541

New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/335986541

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American Heartworm Society provides guidance on heartworm protocols during COVID-19 crisis

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:03:00 GMT

WILMINGTON, DELAWARE— The COVID-19 crisis has created unprecedented disruptions in veterinary practices and animal shelters, making it challenging for many professionals to deliver wellness care, as well as certain medical treatments, to patients. As veterinary practices and animal shelters strive to provide the best possible care for their patients, questions frequently arise about heartworm prevention, testing and treatment.

To address these questions, the American Heartworm Society (AHS) has released recommendations to help clinics and shelters deploy optimal strategies for heartworm management in today’s challenging environment.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made it necessary for veterinarians and shelters to change many day-to-day operations in the interest of limiting virus transmission and protecting public health. This, in turn, has led to questions from veterinarians and shelters about how to adjust their heartworm protocols in the interim. Our recommendations are intended to provide guidance for the unique circumstances veterinarians face today,” stated AHS president Chris Duke, DVM.

According to Dr. Duke, the COVID-19 document will be updated on an as-needed basis in the coming weeks and months and as additional questions arise.

Veterinary professionals and others with questions outside the scope of the COVID-19 position paper are encouraged to visit heartwormsociety.org or contact the AHS at info@heartwormsociety.org .

About the American Heartworm Society

The mission of the American Heartworm Society is to lead the veterinary profession and the public in the understanding of heartworm disease. Founded during the Heartworm Symposium of 1974. The American Heartworm Society aims to further scientific progress in the study of heartworm disease, inform the membership of new developments and encourage and help promote effective procedures for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of heartworm disease.

A note about the COVID-19 crisis and the AHS

The AHS board of directors is comprised of specialists in parasitology, cardiology and community practice, as well as veterinary practitioners in general practice and industry roles. These professionals are dedicated to helping veterinarians and shelters provide the best possible patient care, both during and after the COVID-19 crisis.

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The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 14:54:00 GMT

Existing SBA lenders can start accepting applications from small businesses and sole proprietors on April 3

As expected, the CARES Act cleared the Senate by a vote of 96-0 just before midnight on March 25, and the House passed the bill on Friday, March 27. President Trump signed the legislation Friday afternoon.

Notably, the CARES Act represents the most significant stimulus package in our nation’s history. It contains many complicated and intersecting provisions that will take time to interpret, particularly as we await further clarifications from the Department of Treasury, Department of Labor, and the Small Business Administration.

We know many of you have questions about the implementation of these legislative provisions. Information from the federal agencies will be made available on www.avma.org/coronavirus as it becomes available. We encourage you to submit your questions on the CARES Act or the Families First Coronavirus Response Act via coronavirus@avma.org ; these will inform a FAQ document to follow.

FREE WEBINAR : What’s the right small business loan option for your situation? Compare the various programs available to you in a free, on-demand webinar on AVMA Axon. Watch COVID-19: CARES Act small business loan programs . Free for AVMA/SAVMA Members and Free for Non-members

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MVMA help from VMCVM

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 14:53:00 GMT

The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine has placed our Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs) and an Individual Risk Management tool online and made them available to the community. The Infection Control Team, led by Dr. Jennifer Zambriski, have developed these over the last 3 weeks for use in our Veterinary Teaching Hospital and we believe they can be used as a guideline for how to help other clinics keep themselves and their clients safe. Please let us know if we can be of assistance in any way.

Emergency Operating Procedures:
https://www.vetmed.vt.edu/vth/eop/

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Second version of DHS CISA’s guidance

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 14:01:00 GMT

The second version of DHS CISA’s guidance has been issued. Notable additions and omissions are as follows (thank you to Ashley Morgan for compiling the summary):

We’ll keep you updated as this guidance evolves. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Download Version 2.0 – Advisory Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During Covid-19 Response

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CARES ACT – materials on AMA website

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 13:55:00 GMT

The House of Representatives has just passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). The President is expected to sign the bill into law very quickly.

Attached are three documents we have prepared.

These documents will be updated as more information comes out over the next few days. There has been information to suggest that the Small Business Administration may have some guidance out very quickly.

Feel free to share these as you see appropriate.

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Online CEs Accepted for RVT & Vet Renewals

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 12:43:00 GMT

In light of the State’s COVID-19response and the Governor’s call for social distancing, the Maryland State Board has voted to allow Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) to meet all of their CE requirements with online courses when renewing their license registration for FY 2021 only . Normally, only 8 of the 24 CEs required during the three previous years may be done online. This requirement is being waived for FY21 license registration renewals only.

The Board previously voted to allow veterinarians to meet all of their CE requirements with online courses when renewing their veterinary license registration for FY 2021. Normally, at least 9 of the 18 required CEs must done in person. This requirement is being waived for FY21 license registration renewals only.

The Governor’s Executive Order requires any occupational and professional license that expires during the current State of Emergency to be automatically extended until 30 days after the State of Emergency has been lifted. We, of course, don’t know when that will be. However, for your convenience, license registrations will open for renewal on June 1 even if the State of Emergency remains in effect and the deadline extended.

Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401

Main Office: 410-841-5862
Website: www.mda.maryland.gov/vetboard
Executive Director: vanessa.orlando@maryland.gov
Email: mda.veterinaryboard@maryland.gov
Online portal: portal.mda.maryland.gov
Twitter: @MdVetBoard

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Initial DOL Guidance on Families First Coronavirus Response

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 22:39:00 GMT

The Dept. of Labor just released a Frequently Asked Questions document on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Attached are 3 documents:

1) DOL FAQ and link is: www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-questions
2) DOL Fact Sheet for Employers and link is: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-employer-paid-leave
3) DOL Fact Sheet for Employees and link is: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-employee-paid-leave

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A Message to DEA Registrants

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 21:19:00 GMT

(March 23, 2020) -The Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, is asking State Veterinary Boards to get the below message out to their DEA registration population:

The mission of Drug Enforcement Administrations (DEA), Diversion Control Division is to prevent, detect, and investigate the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and listed chemicals from legitimate sources while ensuring an adequate and uninterrupted supply for legitimate medical, commercial, and scientific needs.

During this National Emergency, the Diversion Control Division will continue to work with our Federal partners, DEA registrants, and their representative association to assure that there is an adequate supply of controlled substances in the United States. The DEA will also work to assure that patients will have access to controlled substances.

On March 16, 2020, the DEA published a COVID-19 Information Page on the Diversion Control Divisions Web Site . This page contains important guidance concerning COVID-19 and the national drug supply, electronic prescribing of controlled substances, telemedicine, medicated assisted treatment, and other important federal and state information. This site will be updated frequently as new information and guidance is issued. Please check back frequently for further information.

Please continue to direct all policy questions concerning COVID-19 to the Policy email box at Natural.Disaster@usdoj.gov

Source: Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners

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Maryland Gov closes non-essential businesses

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 21:13:00 GMT

Veterinarians qualify as a critical infrastructure business which may remain open in Maryland under the new guidance from Governor Hogan.

I want to highlight a few things for MDVMA members. One, Maryland has activated their medical reserves – veterinarians can sign up here: https://mdresponds.health.maryland.gov/

If layoffs or closures are imminent (even just for a short period of time). The Maryland Departments of Commerce and Labor are adjusting programming and availability to make sure businesses and employers are covered whether it’s through loans, grants, or easing up on unemployment insurance. https://govstatus.egov.com/md-coronavirus-business

Cases of covid-19 continue to increase across Maryland and in the DC/MD/VA region and Maryland has taken significant action to slow the infection rate of the virus, protect workers, and strengthen our health care system. Existing Executive Orders and statewide actions and recommendations can be found here: https://coronavirus.maryland.gov/

Today, Governor Hogan announced further action via executive order to stop the spread of the virus.

Download the OLC Interpretive Guidance for COVID19

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Message from the Secretary of State

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 21:01:00 GMT

The Governor of the State of Maryland has proclaimed a State of Emergency and a catastrophic health emergency related to COVID-19. On March 12, 2020, an order was issued extending state licenses and registrations until 30 days after the State of Emergency and catastrophic health emergency is terminated. See notice .

In accordance with the Order, the Secretary of State has issued a Public Notice extending registrations for charitable organizations, professional solicitors, fundraising counsels, and public safety solicitors due during this period are automatically extended until 30 days after the State of Emergency is terminated.

This order only impacts registration due dates from March 12, 2020, until the State of Emergency and catastrophic health emergency is terminated.

If your registration was due before March 11, 2020, it is delinquent.

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DHS identifying critical infrastructure

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 21:00:00 GMT

A number of you have seen the US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) guidance (attached). This document has been referenced by a couple of states. For example, California’s most recent order requires a statewide shelter-in-place “except as needed to maintain continuity of operations of the federal critical infrastructure sectors as outlined” in CISA’s guidance: https://www.cisa.gov/identifying-critical-infrastructure-during-covid-19 . AVMA was involved in discussions with DHS and development of this guidance. This guidance applies to veterinarians in all practice sectors. This document was created very quickly in response to the COVID-19 outbreak and is the first iteration. DHS is working on modifications and AVMA has submitted a request to have veterinarians explicitly noted in both the “Healthcare and Public Health” and “Food and Agriculture” sectors in the next version.

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Best,

Ashley S. Morgan, DVM, CAE
Director | Division of State Advocacy
American Veterinary Medical Association
1910 Sunderland Place NW, Washington, DC 20036
o: 202.289.3210

Download the Executive Order N-33-20

Download the CISA Guidance on Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers 1-20-508c

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PPE Donations

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 14:17:00 GMT

The MDVMA appreciates your support and patience during this challenging time. We know personal protective equipment (PPE) in veterinary medicine facilities are likely already limited due to current demand and backorders. However, MDVMA has been working with the Maryland Hospital Association (MHA) to collect PPE supplies if you are in a position to do so.

The following items are needed:

If you can donate any supplies, please email MDVMA president, Dr. Elizabeth Cottrell, at ecottrelldvm@gmail.com . Include the quantity of each item and for ventilators, as much information as possible (e.g. type, model number, etc.).

The MDVMA encourages practices to utilize cloth gowns, caps, and masks for veterinary procedure in order to preserve PPE. For more information on making cloth masks visit the University of Maryland and scroll down to “Calling All Makers”. For more information on guidelines for use of PPE please visit the AVMA .

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COVID-19: Food Supply Chain Update from Maryland Department of Agriculture

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 19:20:00 GMT

As the State of Maryland continues its unprecedented response to COVID-19, the Maryland Department of Agriculture is emphasizing the need for businesses involved in the state’s food supply chain to continue production. As a key stakeholder, we are asking for your assistance in delivering this message to your customers, employees and related supply chain partners.

Reliable access to food is a human right and it is critical that our food supply chain maintain – and even be prepared to expand – operations throughout this state of emergency. Any business involved in food distribution, production, processing, sales, and supply will be considered essential, including, but not limited to:

As essential businesses, we are asking you to remain open and operational – normally and safely – until or unless directed otherwise. Develop procedures for the safe operation of your facility or farm and post those procedures for the benefit of your employees and the broader public. To clarify, the governor’s current order to suspend operations applies only to bars, dine-in restaurants, and other non-essential retail locations. All other businesses, especially food-related businesses, are encouraged to continue operating within the parameters and protocols (large gatherings, social distancing, etc.) recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Maryland Department of Health .

We understand that there are a number of challenges facing businesses right now. Please keep the Maryland Department of Agriculture informed of any regulatory/statutory challenge or hurdle that may impede production, processing or sales so we can address it accordingly and promptly.

On behalf of the Hogan-Rutherford administration, we appreciate your support and patience as we continue to navigate this constantly-evolving situation with as few disruptions to food production and processing. Thank you for all that you do to ensure Marylanders continue to have access to a safe, reliable food source.

We will post any updates on Facebook , Twitter and the MDA website . If you have specific questions, please contact news.mda@maryland.gov .

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Can my dog get Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 14:20:00 GMT

Here at the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association, it is our passion and privilege to be the guardian of your pet’s healthcare. As your trusted advisor, it is also our responsibility to keep you apprised of any potential threats to your animal’s welfare.

Can my pet be infected by COVID-19?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association , currently, there is no evidence that pets can become sick. Infectious disease experts, as well as the CDC, OIE, and WHO indicate there is also no evidence to suggest that pet dogs or cats can be a source of infection, including spreading COVID-19 to people. But this is a fluid situation, and more investigation is underway. As we learn more, we will update you.

Although our top priority has always been the well-being of pets , please know we are also committed to the health and safety of our owners and employees. To this commitment, we have in place, and are following, protocols for infectious diseases. We are diligently cleaning and disinfecting our facility and are confident we can safely treat your pets. Please know you are in good hands with us. But if you have a special situation or still have concerns, contact our office and we are prepared to make additional or alternative arrangements to see that your pet receives the care it needs.

In the meantime, the best information on this outbreak is found at the CDC website here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html , and we recommend caution and common sense. The same practices that stop the spread of common illnesses such as colds and flu are recommended regarding coronavirus: Wash your hands often with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds (alcohol hand sanitizers are also effective); Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; Avoid contact with people who are sick; Keep a “social distance” when in public; Stay home if you are sick; Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow and; Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

All of us at the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association are grateful for your loyalty and appreciate the privilege to be part of your families’ healthcare. Any questions or concerns please contact us.

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HR 6201 update for the HOD

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 18:12:00 GMT

As reported last night, the House of Representatives passed a package of changes to H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. While the changes were referred to as “technical” in nature, there are some significant policy changes included as an attempt to respond to the concerns of small businesses.

The package now awaits Senate consideration. We know there are several Senators who are not satisfied with the changes and are working to protect small businesses. However, pressure is mounting to complete this package and move on to the next set of issues to address the COVID-19 outbreak and its economic impact.

Last night, AVMA was among 82 business groups writing to Senate leadership to raise the concerns of small businesses across sectors. The letter urges Congress to instead provide for direct benefits to employees impacted by COVID-19, which would eliminate the administrative and financial burdens on small businesses while meeting Congress’s goal of supporting individuals impacted.

Attached you will find a summary of amended version the House passed last night. Highlights include: limiting family and medical leave to employees caring for a child, as well as restricting the benefit to a maximum $200 per day with a $10,000 aggregate total; Placing additional limits on the sick leave provisions; An expansion of the authority of the Dept. of Labor to create regulations to exempt businesses with 50 or fewer workers from both the FMLA and sick leave benefits when it would impact the viability of the business as a going concern; and Expansion of tax credits to also include qualified health plan expenses.

Please note this version is not yet final and may change based on the Senate’s approach today. AVMA will continue to keep you apprised of developments as the package advances.

Click here to download the HR 6201 update for the HOD !

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AVMA HOD Delegate report

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 14:00:00 GMT

Submitted by Dr. Andrew O’Carroll

Greetings from your AVMA delegates, Dr. Krueger and I. For our 2020 Winter House of Delegates (HoD) session, we traveled once again to balmy Chicago as part of the AVMA’s Veterinary Leadership conference. To read specifics about what we discussed and voted on at the meeting, please visit avma.org/about/house-delegates .

The semi-annual Veterinary Information Forum made a grand return after a brief hiatus during the summer session due to the large advocacy event which took place with HoD members on Capitol Hill in DC. In this forum, the house revisited the topics of cannabis (and CBD) and telehealth as well as initiating a conversation regarding liability with practices taking student externs and volunteers. Many thanks to all of you who responded the blast email seeking input. We both found it invaluable in guiding the discussions that took place.

Practitioners across the country are clearly frustrated about our inability to even discuss cannabis and CBD products with clients, or lack of clarity on how to discuss them. Stay tuned to MDVMA updates as there are ongoing efforts in our state to improve our ability to communicate to our clients about these products. Telehealth continues to be a growing field and, despite the near universal opinion of our field and AVMA policy effortsd, some state boards are now allowing an initial veterinary client patient relationship to be established remotely instead of requiring a physical, hands-on examination. Lastly, the topic of volunteer liability came up because of a landmark legal case in Missouri where a veterinary student was awarded with $5,000,000 after an injury sustained while volunteering for a cattle practitioner. This should not discourage anyone from taking in student externs and volunteers as AVMA’s PLIT products protect against such claims, but I encourage you to discuss this with whichever company you use for professional liability insurance.

The HoD was presented with a variety of resolutions to vote on during this session to include policies on use of technology in veterinary medicine, cribbing in horses, microchipping of companion animals and declawing of cats. The latter was by far the most contentious and debated, as was anticipated since NY recently banned the practice and NJ may soon follow suit. The purpose of this resolution was not to change AVMA’s stance on declawing, but to make the policy more concise and less prescriptive for veterinarians in regards to how to manage post-operative pain. The AVMA’s policy and stance remains in opposition to routine declawing but firmly believes that veterinarians should have the lone authority to decide what is best for their patients.

As a reminder, AVMA has significantly expanded services available to members over the past 2 years. These include but are not limited to: their online CE academy AVMA Axon, their Direct Connect program which helps practice owners simplify and optimize their inventory purchases and AVMA Member Edge which provides discounts to a variety of businesses and stores.

Lastly, the AVMA’s Governmental Relations Division (GRD) continues to do a spectacular job looking out for the profession when it comes to Federal legislation. There are too many current and upcoming matters to list here, but the GRD is seeking assistance from members to help contact their legislators regarding certain bills like the Fairness to Pet Owners Act which would Federally mandate all veterinarians to write out all prescriptions to clients. Please visit the AVMA’s website for contact info.

As always, it is an honor to represent Maryland veterinarians in the HoD and we look forward to future feedback for this summer’s Veterinary Information Forum. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns you wish to have presented to the AVMA.

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Veterinary Students Enjoy Brunch and Maryland Zoo Tour

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 13:47:00 GMT

Submitted by Dr. Kelly Underwood

On January 3, 2020, students from VMCVM were able to attend a tour of the Maryland Zoo’s hospital and a student-veterinarian brunch. We had 9 students and three veterinarians attend brunch at Miss Shirley’s Cafe. We enjoyed getting to chat with several first-year veterinary students and share information about experiences as veterinarians. We answered questions about our backgrounds in veterinary medicine and connections with the MDVMA. After brunch, we connected with more students at the zoo hospital for the tour where a veterinary technician and veterinarian walked us through and shared stories. Along with the interesting stories, they offered up useful advice for working in the veterinary field. Lastly, thirteen students followed up by heading into the park. Although a little drizzly, it was warm and ended up being a perfect day for the zoo outing.

All and all, I think the students had a great time and it was an interesting learning experience. I’ve received positive follow-up emails from students thanking me for the experience. I made sure to send the zoo a thank you email. I hope we can continue to enjoy wonderful experiences such as this to prepare veterinary students for a career in veterinary medicine.

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AVMA Leadership Conference Review

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 13:44:00 GMT

Submitted by Dr. Matthew Weeman, Centreville, MD

In January, I was honored to be invited to attend the annual AVMA Leadership Conference as the emerging leader of our Maryland Veterinary Medical Association. Fortunately, the hundreds of attendees were greeted by unseasonably warm Chicago temperatures but the windy city did stay true to her name for most of our visit.

This year’s conference included numerous discussions and the keynote introduction focused on re-assessing corporate structures to better meet the needs of employees. The challenge of the session was to encourage key institutional decision makers to not only empower, but actually challenge employees to be more efficient, self-sufficient and self-motivated. The overarching theory was to ensure the team remains passionate, engaged and innovative to improve patient care, client satisfaction and organizational success. Following the insightful discussion the session entered full swing.

I was able to attend numerous discussions focused on encouraging veterinarians in all career stages to be good stewards of not only our personal businesses but also the profession as a whole. I particularly enjoyed the topics focused on veterinary well-being/dealing with unruly humans and political engagement. Anyone who is able to attend a seminar with Dr. Sarah Wooten is sure to be impressed, having years of experience with exactly the same issues we all encounter every day she manages to take what can be a mundane topic and compress it into a fun, interactive discussion to demonstrate the skillsets she hopes for the attendees to acquire.

A veterinary leadership conference today would be lagging without a discussion surrounding veterinary economics. I was surprised at the very simplistic recommendations made in regards to addressing student debt. After 20 years of discussion I expect more from the leadership of our profession on one of the most important problems impacting our profession today. It is clear that we need more young veterinarians and students to step into the fold and be willing to share the real-world impact of student debt. The MDVMA in particular wants to do all we can to help these students and the first step for them to take is to get engaged with the MDVMA. Students and veterinarians who don’t feel secure sharing their stories about debt, or perhaps are afraid to do so should know they have a home here in Maryland at their veterinary medical association.

On the notes of political engagement I would encourage all veterinarians to reflect on some of the key take home points. It is critical in states like Maryland that our veterinary professionals stay informed of the state legislature and take action to support the profession. Maintaining contact with elected officials within each local district is critical to the success of our veterinary lobbying efforts like those that made compounded prescriptions more accessible to hospitals in Maryland. Also to the efforts of those combating the so-called “Fairness to Pet Owners Act” in Washington. All politics is local. One common misconception is that veterinary practitioners feel they can’t contribute to discussions regarding legislative matters that don’t pertain to the species they treat. This simply isn’t true. It is critical for small animal practitioners to recognize the seamless interconnect that exists between legislation that targets large animal and production medicine and legislation that will later affect the function of the everyday practice in our state.

This year the House of Delegates had robust conversation as they worked to revamp the AVMA guidelines pertaining to declaw which is a topic of particular importance within our state currently as we grapple with legislation that may make the practice illegal in our state. While this is not the time for me to share perspective on the various positions it is an opportunity to highlight how the large animal representatives stepped up to help provide guidance on the issue. The cow vets among us aren’t performing many declaws but the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) was instrumental in providing perspective to the discussion. The AVMA House of Delegates represents a very diverse group of individuals who had a number of concerns regarding the wording of the declaw recommendations. For perspective, The AABP, which finds itself continually responding to consumer and activist driven inquiries provided some insight. Ultimately, the point to make is while bovine practitioners aren’t performing declaws they are becoming adept at navigating policies that meet the demands of the public. Small animal veterinarians will do well to lean on the learned perspective of large animal veterinarians as the landscape of animal welfare unfolds. Likewise, small animal veterinarians need to be willing to step up to the plate and support large animal veterinarians as they ward off legislative attacks. We are one profession and should rely on the inter-species expertise of one another as THE collective body of animal welfare expertise.

I encourage other aspiring veterinarians to get involved with the MDVMA and to consider applying to attend the AVMA Leadership Conference in 2021. Until next time, may you stay warm and find utmost contentment in your art of practice and leadership, whatever, or wherever that may be.

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Greetings from the Maryland Veterinary Technician Association

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 13:36:00 GMT

We had a successful Fall Conference for the third year in a row this past October in Laurel, MD. We had speakers come from around Maryland and the country, had two tracks of lectures, plus an informative panel discussion and had over 100 veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants from MD and surrounding states in attendance.

We’ve made public outreach and education a priority as part of our effort to educate the public and the veterinary profession on the role RVTs play in veterinary medicine and to advocate for our profession. We participated in two general public outreach events held by the Baltimore Humane Society and BARCS this past fall and we will have a booth at the World of Pets Expo the end of January. We’ve been working closely with students at the CCBC Veterinary Technology program to develop educational lectures for pet owners and will be debuting these lectures during the World of Pets Expo as part of their lecture and workshop series.

Our 2020 Spring Workshop Series will be starting soon, so please check our social media pages and website for information when we open registration. MDVTA members receive a 30% discount off registration fees. www.mdvta.wildapricot.org

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Western Maryland VMA Meeting Report

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 13:29:00 GMT

Submitted by Carolyn M. Cornett, DVM

On Wednesday, October 23, 2019, The Western Maryland Veterinary Medical Association (WMVMA) had its Fall continuing education meeting at Fratelli’s Italian and Seafood Restaurant in Middletown. Guest speakers Mike Ausherman and Todd Baker from Legacy Capital Planners presented information for Retirement Planning and gave us insights into how to make the most of our retirement savings. The presentation was based on materials developed by the Prepare Institute, a non-profit educational institution that provides retirement planning courses and classes nationwide. Emphasis was placed on the impact of taxation on savings. With the rising national debt and the presumed inevitability of rising tax rates to offset this deficit, we were encouraged to think about how much our investments will be taxed when we need them down the road.

The recommendation was to have 3 basic types of investment accounts: taxable, tax deferred, and tax advantaged. Taxable funds include savings accounts and investments that can be liquidated easily if needed for unexpected expenses or shortfalls (emergency funds). Tax deferred accounts include IRA’s and 401k, 403b and 457b accounts. Tax advantaged accounts include Roth IRA, Roth 401k, Roth 403b, Roth conversions and IRC 7702 accounts.

Investing in Roth IRAs and conversion to Roth IRA from regular IRA funds was encouraged in order to minimize the amount of funds lost to taxation later in life. While we get a tax deduction by investing in regular IRAs now, there are required minimum distributions (RMDs) starting at age 70 ½ which are taxed as ordinary income. This income combined with social security income can result in higher tax brackets of income during retirement, and higher percentages of hard-earned savings going to taxes instead of retirement living. There are limits to contributions to Roth accounts, but there are no limits on Roth Conversions, and Roth distributions taken later on will not cause social security income to be taxed. There are annual income limits for Roth IRAs as well.

Our speakers also encouraged us to seek advice on protecting legacy from taxation as well. One example given was to consider life insurance policies having death benefits as well as living benefits for qualified health conditions. The benefits of these policies are generally tax-free but reading the fine print of each policy is important. Mike Ausherman and Todd Baker were dynamic speakers who made some difficult concepts more understandable and gave us good insights into retirement planning.

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Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s White Coat Ceremony

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 13:25:00 GMT

Submitted by Dr. Kelly Underwood

The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s White Coat Ceremony was held last year on August 23, 2019, at the Virginia Tech Moss Arts Center, to welcome the incoming class of 2023 to the college. This ceremony came after a week of orientation activities and served as an opportunity to welcome the new 127 students to both the school and the profession. MDVMA President, Elizabeth Cottrell, and College Committee Co-Chair, Kelly Underwood, attended this event on behalf of the MDVMA this year. The ceremony involved each first-year student receiving an official VMCVM laboratory coat. There were many smiles, laughs, and tears as students were coated by persons of their choice, including Dr. Gregory Daniel, VMCVM interim dean, family members, spouses, friends, and mentors. Students not only received an official laboratory coat during the ceremony but were also gifted with pins from the MDVMA and VVMA and a stethoscope donated by the CVCA Cardiac Care for Pets and the Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia Veterinary Medical Associations. The presidents from the MDVMA and VVMA and president-elect of the VMCVM Alumni Society also gave speeches, offering both congratulations and words of wisdom for the students as they begin their veterinary careers. In her speech, Dr. Cottrell reminded students that the MDVMA will be there for them as they begin their academic journey and after graduation. The ceremony closed with the incoming class reciting the Veterinary Student’s Oath led by Dr. Jacquelyn Pelzer, VMCVM Director of Admissions and Student Support.

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Suicide Prevention, Banfield: ASK: Assess, Support, Know

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 18:42:00 GMT

Banfield releases suicide-prevention training as a free resource.

For most veterinary professionals, we know caring for pets is more than a job – it’s a calling.

Because of the passion we have for helping pets and the lengths we go to do so, veterinary professionals are faced with rewarding opportunities but also unique challenges, including heartbreaking life-or-death decisions involving beloved companions.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2015) one in six veterinarians considers suicide. Further, the CDC found rates of suicide are 2.1 times higher than the general population among male veterinarians and 3.5 times higher for female veterinarians.

On January 6, 2020, Banfield Pet Hospital made its suicide-prevention training – “ASK – Assess, Support, Know” – available as a free resource to the veterinary profession. The first of its kind, Banfield designed “ASK” specifically for veterinary professionals to help them recognize and address emotional distress and suicidal thoughts.

You can access “ASK” at ASKAssessSupportKnow.com . The training includes real-life scenarios, talking points, myth-busting, and other resources to help guide veterinary professionals in navigating tough situations.

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AVMA 2019 Economic State of the Veterinary Profession Report now available

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 15:04:00 GMT

The AVMA unveiled the 2019 Economic State of the Veterinary Profession Report, which analyzes the markets for veterinarians, veterinary education and veterinary services, bringing together the three major economic markets comprising the veterinary profession in a first-of-its-kind, easy-to-digest report.

AVMA members can download a free PDF from the AVMA’s website and nonmembers may purchase the report for $125 by visiting https://www.avma.org/News/PressRoom/Pages/AVMA-2019-Economic-State-of-the-Veterinary-Profession-Report-now-available.aspx

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USP 800 and Veterinary Practices

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 06:03:00 GMT

Source: Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
Date: October 28, 2019

The State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners has received several inquiries asking if the Board intends to inspect for and enforce USP 800- Hazardous Drugs—Handling in Healthcare Settings . The short answer is: the Board does not currently intend to inspect for compliance with USP 800, but that does not mean that veterinary practices should ignore the standards.

The U.S. Pharmacopeial (USP) Convention is a nonprofit scientific organization with a mission “to improve global health through public standards and related programs that help ensure the quality, safety, and benefit of medicines and foods.” USP itself has no authority to enforce any of its standards. The standards established in USP 800 do not carry the force of law unless they have been specifically adopted, at either the federal or state level, by way of a law or regulation. Currently, the Maryland Veterinary Practice Act and related regulations do not specifically require compliance with USP 800. In addition, the Maryland Board of Pharmacy , which has incorporated certain USP standards into its regulations governing pharmacies, has not adopted USP 800 at this time.

However, this does not mean that USP 800 is irrelevant to veterinary practices. The USP 800 standards promote worker safety, as well as the safety of patients and animal owners who come into contact with hazardous drugs.

Any veterinary practice that uses the hazardous drugs to which USP 800 applies – especially any practice treating animals with any kind of cancer – would be well served to study USP 800 and follow the standards . Although Board inspections will not specifically address compliance with USP 800, if inspectors see a practice that appears to pose a specific hazard to workers, animal patients, or animal owners, the Board may address the issue through its existing regulations governing professional conduct and professional judgment and/or refer the concern to OSHA or other relevant agency for further inspection.

In the event of an OSHA inspection or a private lawsuit alleging harm caused by unsafe handling of hazardous drugs, the USP 800 standards may be viewed as reflecting the prevailing standard of care.

Keep in mind that other agencies, such as OSHA/ MOSH , the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Maryland Department of Health impose requirements on veterinary practices which are not reflected in the Board’s regulations. Veterinary practices should take care to ensure they are fully cognizant of all the laws and regulations that impact their particular practices, not just those specifically enumerated in the Practice Act.

For more info on USP 800

For more information, see:

For more information:

Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401

Main Office: 410-841-5862
Website: www.mda.maryland.gov/vetboard
Email: mda.veterinaryboard@maryland.gov
Online portal: portal.mda.maryland.gov
Twitter: @MdVetBoard

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From operating rooms to courtrooms, veterinary technicians help ensure the health of animals

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 16:47:00 GMT

The AVMA celebrates the varied and vital work of veterinary technicians during National Veterinary Technician Week (Oct. 13-19)

(SCHAUMBURG, Illinois) October 11, 2019—In all of her preparation and education to become a veterinary technician, Allyne Moon knew her career would include working on all kinds of animals, from dogs to cats to gulls to goats. But testifying in court?

“Not in a million years,” she laughed.

But as medical team lead for a municipal shelter in California, Moon was asked to do just that. By documenting evidence and presenting it before a judge, she helped identify and stop animal abuse in her community. “It was fun and interesting and challenging, being an important part of that team,” Moon said. “It wasn’t hands-on care but I was still helping animals by finding justice for them.”

While not every veterinary technician will testify in court, most techs will tell you about the exciting, varied and important work they do to help animals of all kinds. During National Veterinary Technician Week (October 13-19), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) wants to recognize the integral role that veterinary technicians play on the veterinary medical team.

“Veterinary technicians play a crucial role at any veterinary practice, linking us all together,” said Dr. John Howe, president of the AVMA. “They work closely with our clients, patients, practice managers, veterinary assistants and with us, the veterinarians, to help provide a level of care and comfort we wouldn’t be able to accomplish without their help. Veterinarians are forever grateful for their service and dedication to animal health.”

Cori McTague from Lakewood Animal Hospital in Morris, Ill., has been a veterinary technician for 33 years. She said that while veterinarians are responsible for prescribing medication, performing surgery and diagnosing animals, veterinary technicians are right there working alongside them to perform all the necessary highly skilled work that helps the veterinarian perform those tasks.

“We’re obtaining the urine, blood and stool samples, we’re figuring out dosages and giving meds, we’re taking x-rays, we’re the anesthetists when animals are having surgery,” McTague said. “We do a little bit of everything, and that’s what makes it fun. You’re not doing the same things every day. Every day is going to be different depending on who’s coming through the door.”

McTague added that continuing education and increased specialization in the profession allow for veterinary technicians to learn more about areas that interest them, such as dentistry, dermatology, anesthesiology or nutrition. Her own interests have led her to take an active role in practice management, where she can help run the business and find new ways to get clients in the door and coming back.

Alyssa Ralidak, a veterinary technician at the North Country Veterinary Clinic in Grand Rapids, Minn., said that while working with her animal patients was what initially drew her to the profession, client education and the bonds she forms with clients is just as important.

Ralidak described a case where a red Labrador named Sanja came into the clinic with a stick puncture to the chest. Ralidak and the veterinarian performed the necessary x-rays, sedation, cleansing, and stitching to help the dog heal.

“This case stuck with me because the owner expressed her gratitude so many times and you could just see the relief on her face when I walked out with Sanja after waking her up from anesthesia,” Ralidak said. “The owners make you feel so appreciated, it can make your whole week sometimes.”

“Our patients aren’t just someone else’s pets; they’re like our family, too,” she added.

McTague echoed those comments: “As a veterinary technician you have to love working with people,” she said. “Each animal comes in with a person, so a big part of your job is educating owners and having compassion and helping them through the process. You want to help the animals but the bond with the client is what you take home.”

While the majority of veterinary technicians are employed in private practice, the demand for technicians is rapidly expanding to include new employment opportunities in human and animal health-related areas and specialties such as military service, food safety inspection, teaching, zoo animal and wildlife care, diagnostic laboratory support, veterinary supply sales, animal control and humane society animal care, and drug and feed company technical service and sales.

There are more than 200 accredited programs nationwide for Veterinary Technicians. They provide intensive study of the skills and knowledge to work competently as a veterinary technician, including, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, clinical techniques, pharmacology, anesthesiology, surgical and medical nursing, radiology, and clinical pathology training. Each year, roughly 8,000 students graduate from these programs.

First celebrated in 1993, National Veterinary Technician Week takes place in the third week of October each year. To help celebrate veterinary technicians, the AVMA has developed free social media images that are available to download from the AVMA’s website. Veterinarians can use the AVMA’s veterinary technicians brochure in their hospitals or at community events to educate people about the important work of veterinary technicians. Finally, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) has a National Veterinary Technician Week kit to help focus favorable attention on the profession through a variety of activities.

For more information, contact Michael San Filippo, AVMA senior media relations specialist, at 847-732-6194 (cell) or msanfilippo@avma.org .

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The AVMA, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world, with more than 93,000 member veterinarians worldwide engaged in a wide variety of professional activities and dedicated to the art and science of veterinary medicine. Visit avma.org to learn more.

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First Confirmed Longhorned Tick Found in Maryland

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 23:32:00 GMT

State Urges Marylanders to take Precautions to Protect Livestock, Pets, and Humans

ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 7, 2018) – A National Veterinary Services Laboratory test has confirmed the presence of the Haemaphysalis longicornis tick, also known as the East Asian tick, the longhorned tick, and the bush tick, in Maryland. This is the first confirmed sighting of this tick species in the state. The longhorned tick was found on a white-tailed deer in Washington County and was confirmed on Friday, July 27.

The state’s Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources are working together to inform the public about this new, invasive species and to urge Marylanders to take the necessary precautions to protect livestock, pets, and family members, and report any unusual ticks or a high concentration of tick bites to the University of Maryland’s Assistant Professor of Entomology Dr. Megan Fritz .

“In order to keep livestock and pets safe, we encourage owners to check their animals for a high concentration of tick bites or abnormal ticks,” said the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian Dr. Michael Radebaugh. “This species of ticks are known to cling to hosts in high numbers. If too many of these ticks attach themselves to an animal, it could cause stunted growth, decreased production, major blood loss, and has the potential to spread diseases.”
Currently, the longhorned tick has been found in eight states — New Jersey, West Virginia, Virginia, Arkansas, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania and now Maryland. As of now, the longhorned ticks found in the United States — including the tick confirmed in Maryland — have not been found to carry infectious pathogens. This invasive species is known to carry several diseases in their natural habitats.

“The discovery of the longhorn tick in Maryland reinforces the need of residents to practice tick prevention methods,” said Maryland Department of Health Public Health Services Deputy Secretary Dr. Howard Haft. “Avoiding wooded and brushy areas, wearing long pants and long sleeves, using repellent, and performing tick checks after being outside will all help prevent tickborne diseases.”

This tick species is non-native to the area and is easily mistaken for other common ticks found in Maryland. Hard to see with the naked eye, the brown-colored tick has distinctive “horns” that can be viewed under a microscope. This species has the ability to reproduce asexually and can lay anywhere from 800-2,000 eggs after feeding on a host. The longhorned tick also feeds on a large variety of hosts, such as livestock, poultry, wild birds, pets, small mammals and humans.

Ticks are usually found in tall grasses, meadows, pastures and wooded areas. Protect yourself, your family, livestock and pets from tick bites by following the below recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

1. Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter. (CDC)

2. Use EPA registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. (CDC)

3. Wear long sleeved shirts and long pants. Treat items like boots, pants, socks and tents with permethrin or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear. (CDC)

If you find a suspected longhorned tick on you, your livestock, or your pet, please fill out a tick identification form. Information regarding shipping instructions and where to send the specimen is on the form.

For more information about the longhorned tick and its impact on animal health, please contact the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health program by phone 410-841-5810 or email animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov .

For information about the longhorned tick concerning human health, please contact the Center for Zoonotic and Vector-borne Diseases at the Maryland Department of Health by phone 410-767-5649 or email mdh.czvbd@maryland.gov .

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The Maryland Veterinary Foundation 26th Annual Golf Classic

Tue, 01 May 2018 23:39:00 GMT

The Maryland Veterinary Foundation grants educational scholarships to deserving Maryland residents pursuing all levels of veterinary medical education. With the high cost of veterinary medical education, the need for such scholarships has never been greater. The Maryland Veterinary Foundation, through the generosity of its many donors, provides needed financial assistance to students preparing themselves to join the veterinary profession.

Download The 2018 Program (and paper registration)

GOLFERS
Register By 9/1
• Foursome $500
• Individual $175
• Young Graduate* $125 *Must have graduated from vet school within the past 7 years
• Luncheon and Auction Only $ 40
• Mulligan, Mega Putt, and Hot Shot — Par 4 $ 30.

Register After 9/1
• Foursome $600
• Individual $175
• Young Graduate* $125 *Must have graduated from vet school within the past 7 years
• Luncheon and Auction Only $ 40
• Mulligan, Mega Putt, and Hot Shot – Par 4 $ 30.

SPONSORS
PARTICIPATION LEVEL

Shirt Sponsor $3,500
Beverage Cart $3,000
Best In Group $2,500
Best In Breed $1,000
Hole Sponsor $250
Register Online

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