SUMMER 2020 NEWSLETTER

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE What a strange time to live! Widespread speakers uncertainty, even fear, seems to be the norm in gracious- the world, dealing with a new illness that can be ly had totally innocuous in the vast majority of people, confirmed TABLE but steals the very breath of an unfortunate few. either of As medical professionals, we are called to be a moving to CONTENTS voice of calm reason amidst the fear and chaos. the August dates and par- Times like these highlight what social creatures Association News...... 2 ticipating in person we truly are. I was semen testing bulls for a or participating virtually, but it was not to be. In young family, and I was trying to explain that light of the expense and complexity of offering Membership Renewal...3 social distancing is bad for the elderly. He was webinars, your board decided to simply post aghast that his teacher had told him it was good! available opportunities on the MVMA website. Membership News...... 6 Then I quickly explained my point that it is the Your executive board also mind and emotions that suffer when we’re alone. has sent a letter to the We were created for fellowship, and to see people veterinary board strongly Power of Ten Leadership looking upon each other with trepidation in the Program...... 8 supporting that the regu- grocery store, stony glances warning off any latory board accept online familiarity, my heart breaks. We can maintain Member Spotlight...... 9 continuing education for physical separation and distance, but we must all 20 hours of the CE re- not distance ourselves emotionally. quired for license renewal MT Board of Veterinary this cycle. They will meet Medicine Updates.... 10 I’ve been part of a series of emails being exchanged by small animal clinics in the August 31 and inform us of Flathead Valley, and truly gratified that those their decision. Montana Department of clinics are offering help and support to each Livestock COVID-19 Thank you so much for other, willing to care for what animals need Update...... 12 placing the trust and care and wanting to do it without trying to get Beth Blevins, DVM confidence in me to serve 2019-2020 the folks needing help to transfer to the helping as the MVMA President. I MVMA President An Australian clinic as a new client. Compassion for colleagues Adventure...... 14 certainly was disappointed Ronan, Montana and clients eloquently discussed in the emails that I couldn’t finish with encouraged me once again that ours is the best WIMU Updates...... 18 a good meeting spent with you, my colleagues profession ever! and my friends. One bright spot has been getting I encourage everyone to stay connected to loved to know Jenny Bloomquist, our new den mother. Trish Browning ones and friends. Phone calls are safe! Hearing She is truly an inspiration and has definitely Achieves CVPM...... 19 a voice may be more comforting than an email, jumped into the deep end with all the scheduling being able to see each other via our modern face and rescheduling, writing and rewriting that has 2020 Scholarship to face communication forms may be best of all! I plagued our endeavors this year. A big thank Winners...... 20 think I prefer the term physical distancing to social you to Jenny and Stuart for their work above and distancing, as the latter evokes feelings of loneli- beyond as we’ve navigated this year. AVMA PLIT...... 22 ness and an emotionally unhealthy isolation. Moving forward to 2021, I hope to see you at the In the interests of keeping everyone safe, we exciting Winter Meeting Cara Voss has planned moved the summer MVMA meeting to August. for us and that the trials and difficulties of 2020 Now, with a resurgence of COVID-19 and new are in the rear-view mirror! Thank you again! restrictions, our meeting will not happen. The

406-447-4259 | www.mtvma.org | [email protected] | PO Box 6322 | Helena, Montana 59604 ASSOCIATION NEWS MVMA Regrettably Forced to Cancel Request for Temporary Extension Summer Meeting and Online Options for CE Licensing The MVMA Board of Directors has regrettably Requirements Sent to Montana Board of been forced to cancel the Summer Meeting Veterinary Medicine which was previously rescheduled for August On July 20, MVMA sent a letter to the Montana 27-29 in Missoula. Given the rise in COVID Board of Veterinary Medicine requesting an cases, the majority of the meeting speakers and extension of the November 1, 2020 deadline for vendors were recently prohibited from traveling Continuing Education (CE) requirements for MVMA Posts and participating in person. In addition, the license renewal given the impact the COVID-19 Online CE Missoula County Health Department’s evolving pandemic has had on Montana veterinarians’ Opportunities meeting restrictions would have made the ability to obtain in-person CE credits. on Website gathering prohibitive. To assist members in Furthermore, the Association requested the sourcing online CE MVMA leadership and staff made a valiant board temporarily suspend the rule requiring opportunities, MVMA effort to execute an in-person event and “No more than ten of the 20 hours to be is posting industry discussed proceeding with a virtual format, obtained through online courses” to allow all and university virtual education events on the but determined it was not a cost efficient and 20 credits to be obtained online for the current Association website: viable option at this time. The Board extends license renewal cycle. www.mtvma.org. its sincere appreciation to Dr. Beth Blevins for In the letter, MVMA President Blevins stated, the time and effort she devoted to planning “The MVMA and our membership take our an outstanding event for the membership and obligation to protect the health, safety, and regrets the ultimate outcome. welfare of the public very seriously and realize The Association also wishes to thank the the importance of obtaining informative and members and allied partners who registered for quality Continuing Education in fulfilling that the event. While refunds have been issued to charge, particularly interactive and hands-on all those who registered, if you have questions seminars. However, with our current world about the process or did not receive a refund, human health crisis, we acknowledge in- please contact Jenny Bloomquist, Association person participation in such events during the Coordinator, at 406-447-4259 or jennyb@ upcoming months will be restricted and, as montana.com. The Missoula Hilton Garden Inn such, request the Montana Board of Veterinary will cancel reservations with no penalties, but Medicine consider extending the period of time members are encouraged to call the hotel (406- licensees have to complete CE requirements 532-5300) as soon as possible to cancel. and temporarily suspending the in-person attendance requirement.” MVMA will now focus on hosting a Winter Meeting, under the direction of Dr. Cara Voss, The Montana Board of Veterinary Medicine will January 23-25 at the Best Western GranTree Inn meet virtually on August 31 and will consider in Bozeman. The meeting will be expanded to this request. include a limited number of trade show exhibits, as well. Watch for registration information this fall.

2 2020-2021 Membership Renewal 2020-2021 Process Underway MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL Earlier this spring, the MVMA Board agreed to postpone the proposed dues increase MVMA Needs Your Support! until next year and delay the dues renewal Dear MVMA Member, process until August in consideration I want to take this opportunity to thank you for of the financial challenges posed by the being a Montana Veterinary Medical Association COVID pandemic. Online membership member. Your membership is vitally important renewal notices have now been emailed to the future of our great profession. Organized to all members. Your prompt reply is veterinarians involved in national, state and appreciated to ensure the Association can specialty organizations have allowed us to maintain meet its upcoming financial commitments the high professional standards that make us the and continue to provide valuable services, most respected profession in the world. including advocating for the profession on Ed Peretti, DVM 2020-2021 the state level. Please read incoming MVMA As a member of the MVMA you receive: MVMA President President, Dr. Ed Peretti’s, renewal request • Biannual continuing education conferences at bargain rates; featured to the right. If you prefer to send in your membership renewal with a check, • Exclusive lobbyists that protect our Practice Act; please submit the renewal form found on • Continual legislative updates for members only; page 4 at your earliest convenience. • Free classified advertising on our website; Dr. Ed Peretti Seated as 2020-2021 • Newsletters that are pertinent to issues in our state; MVMA President • Free member listing on the MVMA website; During a July 23rd conference call, the • Discounted services for disability insurance, credit card and MVMA Board of Directors voted to proceed payroll processing and debt collections; with seating President Elect Dr. Ed Peretti • Involvement in MVMA committees; as the 2020-2021 MVMA President during its upcoming August virtual Board meeting. • Networking with colleagues and classmates; Dr. Peretti was slated to assume the role • Power of Ten Leadership workshops for recent graduates; during the Summer Meeting, therefore, the • Covid-19 updates. Board decided this unprecedented situation required immediate seating. Your MVMA, guided by Executive Director Stuart Doggett and Association Coordinator, Jenny Bloomquist, is one of the most Dr. Peretti, of Amherst Animal Hospital respected and fiscally responsible organizations in our state. in Butte, succeeds Dr. Beth Blevins who has provided thoughtful and enthusiastic We are never as strong alone as we are together. Please renew your leadership during the past year. Dr. Blevins membership today using the form on the next page. will remain on the Board as Past President. With Sincere Thanks, Dr. Cara Voss, of Glendive, will assume the President Elect position.

Ed Peretti, DVM 2020-2021 MVMA President

3 PO Box 6322 • Helena, MT 59601 • p 406-447-4259 • f 406-442-8018 • [email protected]

2020-2021 Membership Renewal Form

Renew your dues online and pay with a credit card: www.mtvma.org

Log in to your account, click My Profile, then click GO in the yellow box next to Renew Here. You can also update your profile information. Contact the office if you need help with your login information.

I hereby renew my membership in the Montana Veterinary Medical Association for the 2020-2021 year:

Name

Mailing address Street or Box City State Zip

Email for communication Birth date For future Life Membership purposes.

Information for free web listing: £ Do not list my email on website £ Do not list any of my information on website Even if you choose not to be listed on our website, please still complete the below information, if applicable, for association records.

Clinic name

Clinic address Street or Box City State Zip

Phone Email Website

I graduated from Veterinary School Month Year

Renew Membership Status in the Category Checked:

Active member: $100: full benefits of association; must be licensed in Montana. Affiliate member: $75: veterinarians living out of state; must be member of state association in which currently residing. Life member: No charge: must be 65 years of age and have been a member of the MVMA for 25 years. Do you have any board certifications or specialties you would like to list? £ I am interested in serving on the MVMA Executive Board—meets twice annually with the Winter and Summer Meetings. £ I am interested in being considered for an appointment to the Board of Veterinary Medicine. Are you interested in £ Animal Welfare £ Food Animal/Regulatory serving on any MVMA £ Budget and Finance £ Legislative Committees? £ CE/Program £ Nominations £ Companion Animal £ Veterinary Technicians £ Disaster Preparedness £ Wellness £ Eulogy

Signature Date Please mail renewal form to MVMA, PO Box 6322, Helena, MT 59604. Contributions or gifts to the MVMA are not tax deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes. However, they may be tax deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses subject to restrictions imposed as a result of association lobbying activities. MVMA estimates that the nondeductible portion of your dues, the portion that is allocable to lobbying is 15%.

MEMBERSHIP NEWS Welcome New MVMA Members! In Memoriam MVMA mourns the passing of several long- The following members were approved during time and prominent members. Each of these the 2020 Winter Meeting in Bozeman: MVMA men made a lasting impact on the Montana Classifieds LIFE veterinary profession, their clients, and As a service to our Constance Campbell Rollett Pruyn communities. Their leadership and presence will members, MVMA offers Missoula Missoula be missed within our organization. free advertising for job postings, as well as equip- Richard Cunningham Dick Richardson John W. Gee, DVM – Stanford ment and clinic sales, on Hysham Missoula our website – mtvma.org. John Erfle Paul Schaumberg Born in 1935 in Toledo, Ohio, Ads will be posted on the Kalispell Seeley Lake Dr. Gee spent his childhood website for three months Sid Gustafson Ron Walters dreaming of moving west. After unless earlier removal is Bozeman Lewistown high school, he realized that requested. At this time, there is an abundance of Gerald Killen dream by attending Colorado listings which precluded Forsyth A & M (now Colorado State us from publishing them University) and became a all in this newsletter. FULL successful member of their rodeo Please note, we have Kelli Ator L. Gretchen Saam- reinstated the 150-word Helena Anders team. He returned to Ohio State University to limit for postings. Ben Baldwin Basin, Wyoming earn his DVM but made his way back west to Non-members may Troy Justine Scaccia Montana and began practicing in Stanford in purchase classified ads Zoe Ball Bozeman 1963. For over 50 years, Dr. Gee faithfully served on the website for $150 or Kalispell Tracy Schmitt his clients and community, while also pursuing in the newsletter for $125 Three Forks – with a 150-word limit. Kelli Kolar a renowned rodeo career. He is survived by his Great Falls Robyn Thompson

Larger website and news- son John, daughters, Maria and Theresa, and Photo Credit: Kelly Gorham letter advertising oppor- Teresa Petterson Kalispell their families. tunities are also available. Stevensville Jessie Waltz For more information, Jessi Ross Helena Wesley Marshall, DVM – Ekalaka contact Jenny Bloomquist, Butte Thomas Wurtz Dr. Marshall, a distinguished MVMA Association Great Falls Coordinator at jennyb@ Sarah Roth graduate of Washington State montana.com. Molt University School of Veterinary Medicine, practiced with his wife, JoAn, for 40 years in Lompoc, California before Special Recognition “retiring” to run a cattle ranch in After serving as a veterinarian for 47 years, the Chalk Buttes near Ekalaka, Dr. Dick Raths, Lewistown, (left) received Montana, where JoAn’s family had a homestead. the distinguished Golden Rectal Bovine In Montana, Dr. Marshall bred and raised Probe 2020 for his outstanding service in Arabian horses and was an avid fly fisherman. bovine practice from Dr. Bob Sager, Wilsall, He is survived by his wife, “Dr. Jody,” of 62 (right). Congratulations, Dick, and best years, their children, Kerri, Daniel and Matt and wishes for a fulfilling retirement. their families.

6 Sherman John Smith, DVM – Townsend Jack K. Ward, DVM – Hamilton Born in Bozeman, Montana, Dr. Raised in Hysham, Montana, Dr. Ward Smith grew up raising milking attended Montana State University Shorthorn cattle and Duroc and Washington State University hogs. After spending his first two School where he earned his DVM. collegiate years at Montana State Jack and his wife, Della, moved to University, he was accepted into Hamilton in 1958 where Jack joined Veterinary School at Washington the Bitterroot Veterinary Clinic. In State University where he met his first love of 1975, he opened his private equine his life, Emma. He started practicing with Dr. and bovine medicine and surgery practice, “The goal Gerald Robertson in Bozeman and eventually where he continued to work until 2015. Dr. Ward moved to Three Forks and purchased his own held various officer positions with MVMA and isn’t to live practice. He was instrumental in the operation received the 1983 AVMA Practitioner Research forever, of the Montana Winter Fair, successfully Award for his collaborative research with the introduced semen testing at Midland Bull University of Montana in the field of virology the goal is Testing and developed an elk breeding program and immunology. He is survived by his wife, to create with Jack Bridgewater. He sold is practice in Della, and daughters Lorri and Beth. 2013 and retired to Townsend with Emmy who something Paul H. Bissonette, DVM – Pendleton, Oregon passed in 2011. In 2013, John married his second that will.” (formerly Deer Lodge) love, Barbara, who survives him, as well as his son Sherm and daughter Judy. Dr. Bissonette passed away on June 20 while on Chuck his afternoon walk in Pendleton, Oregon. Born in Palahniuk William J. Tietz, DVM – Bozeman 1931 and raised on a ranch in Hall, Paul worked Montana State University hard and came to respect the land President Emeritus, Dr. William and people around him. He joined the Tietz, died June 10,2020 at the Photo Credit: Kelly Gorham Navy during the Korean conflict and, age of 93. Dr. Tietz came to MSU after his discharge, attended Montana in 1977 from Colorado State State University and Washington State University where he was dean University on the GI bill to become a of CSU’s College of Veterinary veterinarian. In 1959, he moved with Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Current his wife and family to the Deer Lodge Valley President, Waded Cruzado shared the following where he started his veterinary practice with Dr. sentiments regarding Dr. Tietz’s impact on Fred Metcalf in Drummond and in 1961 started MSU, “For many of us, the name Bill Tietz the Clark Fork Veterinary Clinic in Deer Lodge. will forever signify the ushering of Montana “Dr. Paul,” as he was affectionately known across State University into the modern era. By any Powell County for many years, was a cowboy at account, he was a transformative president heart, and as such, he had a simple philosophy: of MSU, moving mountains and often with Work hard, play hard, be honest and spend more little more than his passion, willpower and time listening than talking. He held his patients large personality.” and clients on the highest pedestal and nothing came between him and them when in need. Paul is survived by his wife Patricia, his twin sons, Robert and William, stepchildren Eric and Dena, and their families.

7 POWER OF TEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM MVMA Selects 2020-2021 Class

The Power of Ten Leadership series of learning experiences that commence in Program is an MVMA initiative August 2020 and culminate in June 2021. MVMA designed to cultivate leadership extends its sincere appreciation to the MVMA capacity in recent graduates members who employ these individuals and (graduated between 2013 and encouraged their participation. 2020) and provide learning Grace Clifford, DVM experiences that will enrich Locum Veterinarian - currently at Skyline the individual and benefit Veterinary Hospital, Belgrade the individual’s practice, community, and profession. It is designed to help Kelsey Heiberg, DVM Black Dog Veterinary Services, Bozeman “I certainly recent graduates develop foundational skills in leadership, communication, and business. Ellen Holbrook, DVM wish this Colmey Veterinary Hospital, Livingston Participation in the Power of Ten class creates a Kaitie Ivory, DVM would spirit of community and participants build lasting Pruyn Veterinary Hospital, Missoula bonds with other members of the leadership Katherine Malcott, DVM have been academy class. Learning experiences are Sorensen Small Animal Hospital, Belgrade available scheduled to minimize the impact on working hours – and the entire program is designed Magdalena Niedermeyer, DVM Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic, Stevensville to me as a to garner support from practice owners who recognize their key responsibility in developing Garrett Ryerson, DVM young vet.” human potential. Banfield Pet Hospital, Bozeman Chelsea Uffelman, DVM Katie Rein, DVM 2020-2021 Class Participants: Best Friends Animal Hospital, Billings Crazy Mountain The following applicants were recently selected to McCaide Wooten, DVM Veterinary Service participate in this year’s Power of Ten leadership Pruyn Veterinary Hospital, Missoula Harlowtown, MT academy. These participants will engage in a

“A few years ago, one of my beef producers said, “he didn’t want me to try a procedure for the first time on his bull.” I said, “Do you know how many other things, I’ve done for the first time on your animals?!?” Looking back at my first 7 years as a veterinarian, there were a lot of firsts: first job as an intern, first job in private practice, first time being a practice owner, and so many firsts in the practice of veterinary medicine. It was such a challenging time. I feel the greatest benefit of Power of Ten, is that you meet with a group of peers and a couple of older facilitators to navigate these firsts. I certainly wish this would have been available to me as a young veterinarian. From learning to work with different personality types including your boss and co-workers, to leadership and personal development, the curriculum is designed to encourage young veterinarians to succeed in this incredible profession. The inaugural class in 2019 thought this program was beneficial enough to meet with the Montana Veterinary Medical Association executive board to pitch the merits of the program. It was approved and we have selected the class of 2020.” Dr. Katie Rein, MVMA Power of Ten Curriculum Coach

8 MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Helena Independent Record Selects “It was one of those things that I knew I always MVMA Member as 2020 “20 under 40” wanted to be a vet when I was little. That, or a Community Leader mathematician,” she said.

Dr. Amanda “Mandy” McGowan, 39, works For 13 years, she has diligently as an award-winning associate helped countless veterinarian at the Animal Center Veterinary animals and families Hospital of Helena. recover and cure Independent Record readers voted her as the their pets, and in runner-up for best veterinarian in the “Best of some cases, their Helena” contest last year, and she tied for first best friends. place this year.

“The clients is what IR Bridge, Helena Thom of Photo courtesy When McGowan is not doing blood work, keeps me motivated, and their loving pets Amanda “Mandy” McGowan, DVM taking X-rays or checking for signs of infection Animal Center Veterinary Hospital, Helena, MT or disease, she is helping to fill sandbags for we help and their flood victims, working with 4-H members great, unique, personalities. I love having great during shows and stocking shelves at Helena relationships with clients and they seem truly grateful,” she said. Food Share. “It was one “I don’t have one main place I like to volunteer, I McGowan has been with the Animal Center like to volunteer at various little ones,” she said. Veterinary Hospital of Helena for five years and of those “I have a new respect for filling sandbags.” has no plans of leaving any time soon. She said he staff is what keeps the organization afloat. things that McGowan’s love for volunteer work around the Helena Valley stems from a rather nostalgic root. “I definitely have amazing co-workers, and I have passion for Helena,” she said. “Helena I knew I “I’m a past 4-H member, and 4-H helped me shaped me to be who I am today and I had a lot out with getting a career and scholarships that of help of when I was younger, to help get me always I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” McGowan into veterinary school. And at the end of the said. “And as far as 4-H goes, I help judge the day, I just want to pay it forward for those who wanted to fair and do workshops for vet science, and 4-H have helped me out.” girls learn how to ride as well. For the young be a vet members, 4-H has lots of animal projects and She continued, “And our job is pretty emotional, leadership opportunities for them.” it can be really tough, and I have a great staff when I that helps support me at the animal center being McGowan was born and raised in Helena and an animal advocate – we couldn’t do it alone.” was little.” is a 1999 graduate of Capital High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology in 2003, Reprinted with permission from Helena and in 2007 she graduated veterinary school Independent Record at Colorado State University before finding her way back home to Helena.

9 MONTANA BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICINE UPDATES Submitted by Lucy Richards, Executive Director

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly • The bulk of questions staff received for this influenced normal operations at the board over the last two months pertained Department of Labor and Industry for the mostly to telemedicine/telehealth and how Board of Veterinary Medicine and the 31 to obtain continuing education. other licensing boards. In spite of that, normal • Question/Response #13 of the FAQ is the Montana Board of administrative operations continue despite the most current response to the questions Veterinary Medicine new challenges. The majority of department on continuing education. To sum up that PO Box 200513 staff have been working from home since mid- Helena, MT 59620-0513 response: “Based on guidance recently 406-444-5711 March. Managers, IT staff, the state of Montana developed by this department for the boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/vet Department of Administration, and our own licensing boards under it (including this one), Next Meeting Date staff in the Professional Licensing Bureau have licensing boards with CE requirements can August 31, 2020 done an excellent job adapting and ensuring consider options for extending the period of 8:00 am that work continues. time licensees have to complete CE and/or Normal daily application processing and review the process for granting hardship waivers. work continues as our processing staff members Based on circumstances at present, this are starting to receive the spring “graduation board will be considering those options at influx” of applications. As always, I encourage its August 31 board meeting.” I know of at all new applicants to apply sooner rather than least one other board that has already voted later so that staff can begin reviewing their to extend CE requirements and I know it specific qualifications. Online application is on other boards’ agendas. Note that if is recommended. this board were to extend the date that CE were due it would not change the renewal Below are some brief updates on board and deadline of 11/1/20. Licensees would still department activities. I encourage people to have to renew by that date. They would just visit the board’s website at www.vet.mt.gov. We have more time to complete CE. work to ensure that information that is relevant Board Rulemaking – Current Proposed to both licensees and the public can be found Changes to Board Rules on our website. You can also e-mail questions to [email protected]. • The rulemaking process for MAR 24-222-41 is nearly complete. Generally speaking the COVID-19 Information (Including proposed changes: (1) update the veterinarian Continuing Education) recordkeeping and unprofessional conduct An FAQ specific to COVID-19 questions is rules to conform with national standards; posted to the board’s homepage at www.vet. (2) clean-up and standardize the certified mt.gov. I update the FAQ periodically as the euthanasia technician (CET) and certified situation changes and new information arises. euthanasia agency (CEA) licensing and I encourage all licensees to read through the inspection rules; and (3) standardize the FAQ if they have not already reviewed the most continuing education rules for CET and current version. A few: embryo transfer technicians (ETT).

10 • The public comment period ended at 5:00 • Veterinary Technician Licensure – the Big p.m. on 4/10/20. The board responded to Sky Veterinary Technician Association, those comments at its 4/20/20 regular board with the support of MVMA, is once again meeting. If you want to review the proposed moving forward with legislation to create language prior to adoption click on this link. a license for veterinary technicians. A If you want to listen to the board respond to previous attempt died in process during the comments at the 4/20/20 meeting you can 2019 Session. BSVTA continues to update access the audio recording and time stamped the licensing board as we get closer to the agenda on the board events webpage. session. As with all legislation, once final • The final step in the rulemaking process will draft bill language is completed by BSVTA be for department staff to file the notice of the bill will be placed on a board agenda so Members the board can vote on whether it would like Rebecca Mattix, DVM adoption with the Secretary of State’s Office. Bozeman to request permission from the Governor to The rules will become effective the day after Barbara Calm, DVM the SOS publishes that notice. support or oppose the bill. I will note that the Kila board supported the 2019 version of the bill. • Due to COVID-19, staff including myself Jean Lindley, DVM Miles City and the administrative rules unit, had to Next Board Meeting and General Stakeholder Outreach Paul McCann, DVM reprioritize our work and less time sensitive Havre projects. I anticipate the adoption notice • Board of Veterinary Medicine members Tia Nelson, DVM will be filed in the next few months. When continue to represent this board at MVMA Helena that notice is filed we will notify interested meetings. Most recently, Becky Mattix and Kim Baker, parties and all licensees who have a current Barbara Calm attended the Winter MVMA Public Member Hot Springs e-mail address in our eBiz licensing system. meeting as representatives and updated the That notice will also be posted to the board’s MVMA board and general membership on rulemaking webpage. board activities. 2021 Legislative Session • Board meetings are open to the public • Board Legislative Requests – at its 12/17/19 and any licensee or member of the public. meeting the board voted to request approval If you wish to be added to the board’s from the Governor to move forward with interested parties list to receive updates on proposed rulemaking and upcoming board five different legislative concepts for the Please Note: During 2021 session. Since the board is part of meeting agendas just e-mail your request to the August 31 meeting, the Executive Branch the Governor must [email protected]. Rhonda Morgan will be assuming the Board’s approve all board and department legislative • The next regular board meeting is scheduled Executive Director proposals. A final decision on whether the for 8/31/20. An agenda will be finalized and position, replacing current board can move forward with any or all posted to the website two weeks prior to the Executive Director Lucy of those proposals not been made yet. I meeting. All board meetings continue to be Richards. MVMA extends its sincere appreciation will update the board again at its 8/31/20 by telephone only as our office in Helena to Lucy for the time and meeting as it is likely a final decision will remains closed to the public. effort she has devoted to have been made by that time. Further the Board and wishes her information on those proposals can be well as she transitions to overseeing other found by listening to the board discussion State Boards. and motions at the 12/17/19 meeting. The audio recording and time stamped agenda can be found on the board events webpage.

11 MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF LIVESTOCK COVID-19 UPDATE Submitted by: Anna Forseth, DVM, MS, Program Veterinarian, Montana Department of Livestock Resources: Tahnee Szymanski, DVM, Assistant State Veterinarian, Montana Department of Livestock AVMA Statement on Testing Animals: What we know about animals and o Use telemedicine for consults or to https://ebusiness.avma.org/ COVID-19 help triage patients. Consult your state files/coronavirus/COVID-19- requirements for telemedicine and Joint-Statement-Testing.pdf • There is no evidence that companion animals play a significant role in spreading veterinary-client-patient relationship CDC Guidance for (VCPR) requirements. Veterinary Clinics: SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes https://www.cdc.gov/ COVID-19. Based on the available data, o Schedule drop-off appointments or coronavirus/2019-ncov/ the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to receiving companion animals from their community/veterinarians. html?deliveryName=US_1164- people is considered to be low. owners’ vehicles (also called curbside). DM27551 • SARS-CoV- 2 infection has been confirmed o Communicate via telephone or video-chat Companion Animal Toolkit: in tigers at the Bronx Zoo, two pet cats with to maintain social distancing. https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ mild respiratory illness in New York, and o Use direct-to-exam-room admissions animals/toolkit.html most recently in a dog in Georgia. All of and/or enforce social distancing in the CDC Frequently these animals had contact with confirmed lobby. Veterinarians should also use Asked Questions: or suspected positive human cases. their best judgment when considering https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq. • There have been no COVID-19 cases appropriate PPE to use. html?deliveryName=US_1164- associated with animals in Montana. DM27551#Pets-and-Animals o Have staff, rather than clients, hold animals to minimize direct contact. COVID and Animals: Considerations for your veterinary practice https://www.cdc.gov/ • The greatest risk of COVID-19 exposure o Use online payment and billing to coronavirus/2019-ncov/ reduce handling credit cards or other daily-life-coping/animals. to staff at veterinary clinics comes from html?deliveryName=US_1164- person-to-person transmission through potential fomites. DM27551 respiratory droplets from coughing, Clinical signs in animals COVID Testing Decision Tree: sneezing, or talking, which is the main way • Limited information is available to https://ebusiness.avma.org/ SARS-CoV-2 spreads. Clinic staff should be files/coronavirus/COVID-19- characterize the spectrum of clinical illness Testing-Flowchart.pdf screened at the beginning of each shift prior associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in to interacting with other staff and clients. CDC Handouts for cats, dogs, mustelids and other susceptible Pet Owners: • Take precautions to minimize staff contact https://www.cdc.gov/ species. Clinical signs thought to be coronavirus/2019- with pet owners. Examples of actions to compatible with SARS-CoV-2 infection in ncov/communication/ minimize contact with pet owners or other animals include: fever, coughing, difficulty print-resources. people include: html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc breathing or shortness of breath, lethargy, o Practice social distancing. sneezing, nasal/ocular discharge, vomiting, o Use professional judgment when and diarrhea. determining whether a case is urgent or non-urgent and when procedures should be postponed.

12 Testing companion animals for SARS-CoV-2 The following should be considered when deciding whether to test for COVID-19: • Infection in pets is rare. AGENCY • Routine testing is not recommended. CONTACTS • Animals exhibiting compatible clinical signs should be screened for common respiratory Montana Department of Livestock pathogens prior to testing for COVID-19. Animal Health Bureau PO Box 202001 • If you have an animal that you believe to 301 N Roberts Street There have be an appropriate candidate for COVID-19 Helena, MT 59620-2001 testing, please consult with your local health office or MDOL. General Inquiries: (406) 444-2043 been no FAX: (406) 444-1929 What if an animal tests positive? Import Permits: (406) 444-2976 COVID-19 • Positive test results should be reported Standard permits available 24 hours to the Montana Department of Livestock cases Martin Zaluski, DVM: (406) 444-0782 (MDOL) at (406) 444-2976. MDOL may request confirmatory testing be conducted State Veterinarian associated at the National Veterinary Services Tahnee Szymanski, DVM: (406) 444-5214 Laboratory (NVSL). Assistant State Veterinarian with • Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals in animals must be reported by USDA to the USDA – APHIS World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). Scott Beutelschies DVM Montana. Area Veterinarian in Charge-Montana- Next Montana Department of Livestock Veterinary Services Field Operations-D3 meeting date: Wednesday, September 16, 2020 208 N Montana Ave. Suite 101 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Helena, MT 59601 Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the public is Phone: (406) 437-9450 asked to join this meeting via ZOOM. Please email [email protected] or call 406-444- 9321 for log-in information.

✮✮✮ Full or Part-Time Veterinarian - Brownsville, Texas ✮✮✮ Our non-profit, 501C3 IRS approved, low cost spay-neuter veterinary clinic is looking for a full or part-time veterinarian, or two part-time veterinarians. Hopefully, a veterinarian from Montana is looking to semi-retire somewhere with nice weather. We are such a clinic!!! Our pay is competitive, we value experience. The prospective vet may want to help us with spay/neuters, but it’s not necessary, he/she can help us with consultations. For more information, please contact: Edgar C. Trevino, Executive Director | Brownsville Spay Neuter | 1050 A McIntosh Dr. | Brownsville TX 78521 | [email protected]

13 AN AUSTRALIAN ADVENTURE DURING COVID-19 CRISIS Submitted by Dr. Nancy Belk, MVMA totally unprepared for the loss of directional Director, and her husband, Dan Belk, orientation that happens when you cross the in April 2020. Nancy and Dan were equator. North suddenly was south, and the sun able to finally return to Montana on felt like it was in the wrong place. During our time May 16 with many cherished memories in Sydney, we visited the Darling harbor, walked and a deep appreciation for arriving through Chinatown and took the ferry to Toronga safely home. park – the Sydney Zoo. A ferry ride took us by the Sydney Opera House and near the Sydney Bay We are sharing our adventure to Bridge. And, we attended an evening service at Australia during Covid19. It all started St. Mary’s Cathedral. last November when my husband Dan and I booked tickets to visit two On Monday morning, we got on the train and friends who live in Australia. Kathrin traveled to Wagga Wagga, then on the bus to Guderian and Karen King were both Tumbarumba where Kathrin picked us up and long time vet school friends who had took us to her farm. All around us as we traveled moved to Australia years ago. Kathrin to the farm there was evidence of the fires that lives on a farm near Tooma, New had raged through the area only two months ago. South Wales, and Karen lives on farm As we rode on the train and coach (bus), we saw near Dunkeld, Victoria. It had been twisted heaps of metal that were houses or barns a goal to visit them for many years. scattered here and there, and some structures that We bought cheap tickets (you know looked as if they should have burned but survived non-refundable) and planned our trip. the fires due to the wind just happening to favor In November there was a drought in them that day. After we arrived at Kathrin’s, Australia, but we were really not aware we realized that things were not going so well of it, then in January there were fires, regarding CoVid19, and that we probably were not well we figured those would be done by going to be able to travel onto Karen’s farm like we the time of our arrival--and they were. had planned. But we had to made it to Kathrin’s Rain came in February, all at once and farm, so we needed to make the best of it. there was flooding, Then, a windstorm We have a ranch in central Montana, so we are came and claimed the roof of a guest familiar with ranch operations in the States, cabin on Kathrin’s property, We told but some things were definitely different. The Kathrin we would come with work farm boarders Kosciusko National Park and gloves and help rebuild. is named after a range of mountains near the So, with all that in mind, we set off on farm known as Jagumba. The terrain is forested March 11 to visit and help out. We got with eucalyptus trees of every shape and color, into Sydney on Friday morning March locally called gum trees. In the US we would 13, things seemed normal enough to us call the farm a ranch because the only crop they grow is hay, and that is fed to their cattle which as we had not looked at a TV or paper is what they sell. The farm is located about an since we left Billings. We took the train hour from Tumbarumba in a densely forested to downtown Sydney to spend 3 days area (Australians call it Bush) where they have to see the sights and recuperate from cut down the trees and planted grass in the the plane trip. flatter parts of the land. In the steep areas and We knew about jet lag, but we were gullies there is still forest. The eucalyptus tree is

14 amazing, unless the fire was extremely hot, most trees falling on the fences, and fire taking the of the native trees did not die and are coming tensile strength out of the wire. Ideally the trees back and growing new leaves, while the pine are cut back, and fire breaks installed, but there trees are dead sticks. There are only a few native are many and varied rules on where species of pine tree, most of the pine trees in the and how far one can cut back trees. For tree farms are non-native, and burned hot, taking example, the boundary fences with the adjacent native trees with them. park land only get 6 meters, although there is a move afoot to expand that to It was incredibly green when we arrived in mid- a much higher value. March, and only got greener as April rolled by. The grasses vary almost as much as the trees. The cattle at Jagumba are a mixed lot of There are several species of annual and perennial colors and consist of Santa Gertrudis, grasses including kangaroo grass which is a Murry Grey, Brahma, Charolais and summer grass, and rye grasses planted as a more Angus. All the cattle we’ve seen are palatable cattle feed. All the shades of green are longer legged with a leaner appearance a visual treat. This area is quite hilly and brush is than cattle in Montana, likely due normally quite thick, consisting of a brush tree to the need for these animals to called tea trees. This year most of the underbrush tolerate the hotter climate. Mineral was burned out by the bush fires of January. To deficiencies that are seen in this area work the cattle, we ride horses and rely heavily on are calcium, phosphorous, sulfur and dogs to get the cows out of what brush remained. selenium. Native grasses here are not The riders mostly just direct the dogs and open so nutritious for livestock as improved gates. The dogs are amazing to watch. They are pasture grasses, generally some type Kelpie (an Australian stock dog) and border collie of rye grass or something similar. The type stock dogs and get a very intense look on season here is autumn, so calves are their faces when they are working. being sold. Cattle auctions here are similar to those online auctions in Bordering a national park has its challenges, the States. Jagumba sold some calves primarily keeping out what Kathrin’s husband, online through a simultaneous auction. Barry, calls “Share Farmers”…the deer, wild This is where the various lots are all horses (brumbies), wild dogs (dingos), kangaroos, placed in a matrix, and when the wallabies and the like want to feed on the pasture bidding slows down the results are improvements made on the farm for the cattle locked in. Prices here are comparable and sheep. To combat this, a boundary fence is to those in Montana, even to the extent installed that is 6 feet high. It is woven wire on that the black Angus calves bring in a the bottom (called mesh) and smooth high tensile little more. For example: $6/kg AUS wire on up to the top wire. Interestingly, the wires =$1.71/lb US after translating kg to lbs are run through holes in the steel posts, so staples and AUS to US dollars. and clips are not needed unless in the case of an electric wire, an insulator is needed. The sheep that Kathrin and Barry raise are Dorper sheep, that shed their The soil here is sandy and lots of gravel, so wool, no shearing needed and no docking of tails doesn’t allow the strainer post to move under required. There are flocks of merino sheep in wet conditions like can happen in Montana. A the area, but not at Jagumba. The sheep are kept common strainer here is a concrete railroad tie, as a “killer flock” that means they are not sold weighing in at over 700 pounds (350 kg). Since so much as used to feed the people at the farm, most of the posts here are metal, most of the friends, and family. When the freezer gets low, damage to the fences on Jagumba were due to Australian Adventure continued on page 20

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Australian Adventure continued from page 19 Most of the tractors here at Jagumba are Kubota tractors. There are John Deere and others around. and a cool night is on tap one is butchered. The The utility vehicle is the ute with a tray back. sheep are penned up at night behind This is basically a small pickup with a flat bed fences good enough to keep wild with fold up 6 to 8-inch side walls. The steering dogs out. wheel is on the right side, making the shift on the Most of the stock dogs here at Jagumba left. Haven’t seen an automatic ute yet. Most of are an Australian developed breed the stock hauling is done on a tray truck unless called Kelpies. They are a modification it is a big load where they use B-double, which of the Border Collies from England. is two 40-foot pots pulled by one tractor. Here at Like most working dogs, they live to Jagumba they have a 20-foot tray truck and have herd. They work well with both sheep a stock rack that is attached when needed. and cattle. A typical day here starts at daylight…around 6:30 Alfalfa hay is called “Lucerne” here and am (days are getting shorter in April, while in is put up in large square bales. Forty Montana they are getting longer) with breakfast inches of rain for the annual average consisting of eggs from the chooks, some garden rain fall, hay sheds are a requirement, veggies and whatever leftover meat is available in so square bales stack better. The the fridge. Go out fencing or whatever is the chore improved pastures are planted in areas of the day, come back around noon hour for soup TOUGH ENOUGH where the terrain is level enough, the and whatever is in the fridge. Continue the chore You work hard—your diagnostic equipment should too. Built For equine and mixed practices, IBEX EVO® is used in top clinics, forest is left in the gullies and steep of the day be it repairing the wind damaged guest for the toughest environments, the IBEX® family of portable universities and hospitals. areas. Yields here for irrigated crops is house or fencing or fixing the machinery. Evening ultrasound systems takes imaging wherever you need it. similar except that the growing season meal is generally roasted meat (lamb, venison, or Tested to mil-spec standards, E.I. Medical Imaging systems is longer, so they get extra cuttings. beef) along with potatoes and veggies. Engineered and manufactured in the USA, IBEX systems are are durable and flexible, so you can work when you want and designed with the highest levels of ruggedness and image where you want to maximize efficiency and increase herd The remote location of Jagumba means Nancy and Dan returned to the United States being “off the grid” for electricity. on May 16 – and found nothing typical as quality in mind. Whether you are interested in early pregnancy profitability. Even though two high voltage lines Nancy describes: diagnosis or beef carcass validation, IBEX can deliver all the • Accurate early pregnancy diagnosis functionality you need in one system. run through the farm, there is no We got back the 16th of May. It was quite a • Accurate aging, even on early AI cattle distribution voltage lines available. contrast traveling back through the airports from Used in managing some of the largest herds worldwide, IBEX • Eliminate open cows sooner They rely on solar generation and Australia, very few shops were open, just food ultrasound systems are the gold-standard in portable veteri- diesel generator into batteries run • Allow easier diagnostic fetal sexing/aging places and those had social distancing in place. nary ultrasound. through an inverter for electric No lines at security or customs. Traveling from Gary Veserat MS, PAS power. Internet is through a satellite Sidney to San Francisco there were about 40 [email protected] / (530) 668-488 connection and is generally pretty people on the flight. United had one flight daily good if you ignore the latency. Domestic water from Sydney to San Francisco. To my knowledge, is provided by collecting the water off the I.C.E. C9OPU-HD that was the only flight to the US from Australia. roof of a large metal shed where is stored far The IBEX® Customizable Extension lessens fatigue and stress on the user’s arm and Ovum pickup probe and handle [5-10 MHz], 14 cm depth. I do know there were no international flights shoulder. The I.C.E.® extension allows easy insertion or removal of the probe. Adjustable handle, shallower focus for better imaging; small height, lightweight. enough up hill to provide water pressure. Hot from Melbourne at that time as we flew from Improved positioning of transducer array and needle exit. Equine and bovine. water is provided by solar heating panel and a Melbourne to Sydney and the international water jacket on the wood heat/cook stove in airport in Melbourne was closed. So strange to the kitchen. Temperatures here are generally in see all the vacant parking lots and so little traffic Celsius, and the wintertime temps usually do not at a huge airport. CLi4HD get lower than a couple degrees below freezing. It Curved array, low-frequency [3-7 MHz] probe, 6-25 cm penetration, high resolu- isn’t cold enough to bother the citrus trees. Water We had a wonderful experience during our tion image. Bovine and equine reproduction, large and small animal abdomen. lines underground are not to avoid freezing, but unexpected extended visit to Australia. to protect the water line.

16 CALL NOW FOR SPECIAL PRICING

TOUGH ENOUGH You work hard—your diagnostic equipment should too. Built For equine and mixed practices, IBEX EVO® is used in top clinics, for the toughest environments, the IBEX® family of portable universities and hospitals. ultrasound systems takes imaging wherever you need it. Tested to mil-spec standards, E.I. Medical Imaging systems Engineered and manufactured in the USA, IBEX systems are are durable and flexible, so you can work when you want and designed with the highest levels of ruggedness and image where you want to maximize efficiency and increase herd quality in mind. Whether you are interested in early pregnancy profitability. diagnosis or beef carcass validation, IBEX can deliver all the • Accurate early pregnancy diagnosis functionality you need in one system. • Accurate aging, even on early AI cattle Used in managing some of the largest herds worldwide, IBEX • Eliminate open cows sooner ultrasound systems are the gold-standard in portable veteri- • Allow easier diagnostic fetal sexing/aging nary ultrasound. Gary Veserat MS, PAS [email protected] / (530) 668-488

I.C.E. C9OPU-HD The IBEX® Customizable Extension lessens fatigue and stress on the user’s arm and Ovum pickup probe and handle [5-10 MHz], 14 cm depth. shoulder. The I.C.E.® extension allows easy insertion or removal of the probe. Adjustable handle, shallower focus for better imaging; small height, lightweight. Improved positioning of transducer array and needle exit. Equine and bovine.

CLi4HD Curved array, low-frequency [3-7 MHz] probe, 6-25 cm penetration, high resolu- tion image. Bovine and equine reproduction, large and small animal abdomen. WIMU REGIONAL PROGRAM IN VETERINARY MEDICINE Montana State University (MSU), the University These students were among the WIMU of Idaho (UI) and Utah State University (USU) Program’s the third graduating class: This are partners with Washington State University Hannah Greene, Clancy (WSU) in its Regional Program in Veterinary Equine Clinic in Vancouver, BC innovative Medical Education to serve the states of Allison Hale, Corvallis Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Utah. This Mixed animal medicine in Twin Falls, ID and highly innovative and highly successful program, Emily Munday, Butte known as the Washington-Idaho-Montana-Utah successful Small animal medicine at Poulsbo Animal (WIMU) Regional Program, serves students in Clinic in Poulsbo, WA program, the Northwest and northern Rockies. Maddie Parker, Helena known as Montana students spend their first year in Small animal medicine in Fayetteville, NC Bozeman at Montana State University. MSU Kamron Ratzburg, Galata the WIMU faculty members teach the 1st year curriculum Marias Vet Clinic in Shelby, MT which includes Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Regional Jordan Robins, Kalispell Neuroscience, Immunology, General Pathology, Horizon Veterinary Clinic in Lewistown, MT Professionalism and Ethics, Introduction to Program, Garrett Ryerson, Helena Clinics, and Introduction to Surgery. MSU Small Animal Veterinary Clinic in WIMU instructors have extensive backgrounds serves Bozeman, MT in veterinary medicine, including several Maddie (Sechena) Watkins, Great Falls students instructors with both DVM and PhD degrees. Small animal and small ruminant medicine at in the Classroom and clinical study continue in years 2 North Star Animal Hospital in Palmer, AK Northwest and 3 on WSU’s Pullman campus. Students then Tori Wilson, Pony have the opportunity to learn in a wide network Mixed animal medicine at Mountainview and of clinical placements throughout the four-state Veterinary Service in Twin Bridges, MT WIMUregion in the 4th year before graduating. Dalen Wood, Big Timber Northern BozemanListed to the right are the Montana students South Valley Equine; Equine Internship; Rockies. who recently graduated in May 2020, their Saratoga Springs, UT Class Montanaof 2020 hometowns and their future plans. MVMA is also pleased to congratulate the following students who will be inducted into the Program during a virtual White Coat Ceremony in August. Dr. Ed Peretti, MVMA President Elect will be delivering the ceremony address to students. Hannah Greene - Clancy Allison Hale - Corvallis Emily Munday - Butte Madison Parker - Helena Kamron Ratzburg - Galata Randa Boler Colter Christian Greta Gustafson Sara Heine Kelly Liebers Emma Loney Jacob Malek Bryan Mitchell Lynn Short Kayla Stanek Jordan Robins - Kalispell Garrett Ryerson - Helena Madisen Sechena - Great Falls Tori Wilson - Pony Dalen Wood - Big Timber Cassidy Wiley

18 MVMA IS PLEASED TO RECOGNIZE TRISH BROWNING, MONTANA’S NEWEST CVPM! Here’s Trish’s inspirational story: faint of heart. It required that I go back to college “Determination is nothing without dedication and take courses in business, take and hard work.” CVPM prep courses and continuing education that would take most of Hi! I am Trish Browning, Practice Manager for my weekends for over a year and Dr. Mark Albrecht and the Gallatin Veterinary recommended reading list on the Hospital since August of 2006. I can’t believe five disciplines for management in a that it has been almost 15 years that have been veterinary practice: human resources, working with the team here. law and ethics, marketing, finances and practice organization. I spoke to I came to Bozeman with my three children, people who were sitting for the exam Orry, Taw and Reina and started my career for the second or third time. Yikes! in veterinary medicine working in Client Trish Browning Relations and moving to become a Veterinary However, 2019 was a pretty fantastic CVPM Assistant before I found that my spot is Practice year for me. I was chosen by VHMA Gallatin Veterinary Hospital Management. There hadn’t been a practice to be featured in their Year of the Bozeman, Montana manager at GVH before me so as I sat at my Member article. An honor only 12 desk for the first time I thought, “Okay I am here practice managers across the US and Canada but what do I do now?” received. I was selected to be on the Industry Advisory Panel by VHMA which helps those After learning the basics, I started setting goals: that work in the industry and for the industry 1. Changing from paper records to electronic. relate and work toward improving veterinary I was tired of always singing the ABC song medicine. Last, but not least, on August 13th when filing. I sat for my CVPM certification and PASSED. I joined just two others in Montana to 2. We became the first veterinary hospital become certified. in Bozeman to become American Animal Hospital Association, (AAHA) certified. And It was a journey well worth taking and I really there were a ton more. encourage others to not give up on your goals. At the end of this very long list of goals was to Who knows maybe you will be next! become a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, CVPM! It was at the end of the list not because it wasn’t important. It was VERY important but ten years ago when I first thought about becoming certified I thought, I am WAY too old to work on that goal and put it on the back burner. So I waited 10 years…and decided that I was now YOUNG enough to start studying.

Studying for the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association’s, CVPM designation is not for the

19 MVMA ANNOUNCES 2020 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Each year, the MVMA awards two, $2,000 Association (AVMA) to represent the college scholarship grants to Montana students who at the Veterinary Leadership Conference in have completed, at minimum, their first year of Chicago. In addition, she serves on the Chapter’s a professional veterinary medical curriculum. board and its Wellness Committee, is a student This year’s recipients are Sadie Reddick, a ambassador for the college and is the leader of second-year student at Washington State the Josh Project, a group of veterinary students University and Shea Stevens, a third-year who organize activities to bring comfort student at Oregon State University. to the children at the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. Sadie is the daughter of Veloy and Dan Reddick, of Belgrade. She grew up with an Congratulations Sadie and Shea! Montana’s exposure to local veterinary practices in the future veterinary profession is in good hands. Gallatin Valley through her involvement with 4-H horse and beef projects and worked with the small animal veterinarians New MVMA at Sorensen Veterinary Hospital. She Staff Member graduated with honors from Oklahoma State Jenny Bloomquist was University earning a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences with a major hired this winter to serve concentration in Pre-Veterinary Animal as the MVMA Association Sadie Reddick Science. With a goal of one day returning Coordinator. She replaces 2020 MVMA to Montana as a rural veterinarian, Sadie Charlotte Lauerman who Scholarship Recipient enrolled in the WIMU program through left to take a position Washington State University (WSU). Sadie with the Montana Telecommunications was one of two students selected to represent Association. The Association extends its WSU in the Veterinary Leadership Experience heartfelt gratitude for Charlotte’s diligent and was also selected for the Northwest service over the past seven years. Bovine Veterinary Experience Program (NW- BVEP) internship. Most recently, Jenny took time off from the Shea is the daughter of Dave and Colleen workforce to raise her children and serve Stevens, of Kalispell. Fulfilling her as an active Helena community leader. childhood dream, she is one year away from Prior to that, however, she gained extensive achieving her goal to return to the Flathead experience working for state and national Valley to practice companion animal agriculture industry associations including medicine as a general practitioner. Shea serving as the Executive Vice President has gained valuable clinical experience at of Marketing for the American Angus the Whitefish Animal Hospital. Her passion is leadership and she continues to build Association’s Certified Angus Beef Program on her experiences obtained through the and as Special Services Coordinator for the Leadership Fellows Certificate Program at Montana Stockgrowers Association. Shea Stevens Montana State University. Shea is actively 2020 MVMA involved in the Oregon State University Jenny is married to Helena agriculture Scholarship Recipient (OSU) Carlson College of Veterinary attorney, John Bloomquist, and has two Medicine and was selected by the OSU Student children, Audrey, and Caswell. Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical

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AVMA PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY, BUSINESS AND PERSONAL INSURANCE (PLIT) What Coverage is Your RABIES, Oh My!! insurance company paid the client $60,000 for Dr. Karen rabies PEP treatment and treatment needed for Practice Missing? Wernette, DVM, Have you ever considered the ripple effect the infected bite wound. and AVMA PLIT of a potential rabies exposure in your clinic? Trust Veterinarian Are you vaccinated? Is your staff vaccinated? Workers’ compensation protects your workers was scheduled to Who is going to pay for all of these treatments, financially if they are injured on the job. The speak to MVMA quarantines and/or reimbursements for losses? two staff members’ rabies PEP treatment and A rabies exposure in a veterinary clinic can BUSINESS EMPLOYMENT members during injuries were covered. WORKERS’ DATA the 2020 Summer trigger several insurance policies that practice OWNER’S PRACTICES AVMA LIFE rabies prophylaxis benefit is Meeting. In place owners may not have considered or are aware COMPENSATION BREACH part of the Member Basic Protection Package. POLICY LIABILITY of that session, she of. Rabies exposures in practices are not that The rabies prophylaxis benefit helps cover the graciously offered uncommon. cost of rabies prophylaxis either before or after the following article: Claim Example: A client presented a stray kitten exposure. Dr. A had been previously vaccinated for wellness exam. The client was holding the against rabies so she received two rabies booster kitten during the exam and it bit the vaccines. The insurance policy paid $600 for client. The client washed the wound and the vaccines. was told to seek medical attention. A week later the kitten presented for muscle Dr A also had the AVMA Life Hospital tremors and had become aggressive. Indemnity Plan. The hospital indemnity During the exam, Dr A was bitten by the plan may supplement other medical care kitten. The kitten was hospitalized but insurance you may carry. It is rare that any This coverage helps Your employees Even the most The average data progressively became more aggressive and medical care plan covers all of the expenses replace or repair your are the strength of disciplined practices breach costs $214 per was euthanized. The brain was submitted especially if hospitalization is involved. Dr A building, equipment, your practice. This can face allegations record! Data breach and tested positive for rabies. Dr. A, two was hospitalized for 3 days and received a daily furniture, computers coverage protects of harassment, coverage responds Karen Wernette, DVM staff members, and the client underwent benefit of $400. and more. PLIT’s your workers discrimination, and to the loss, theft, AVMA PLIT rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) policies are unique financially if they’re wrongful employment accidental release, or Dr A had the AVMA LIFE Short-Term Trust Veterinarian treatment. Dr. A’s bite became infected in that they protect injured on the job. operations. This accidental publication Disability Income Plan 1 where benefits begin and she was hospitalized for 3 days and unable you against one of provides coverage of sensitive records. on the first day of hospitalization. to work for three weeks while healing and the most common for legal defense causes of damage at fees and indemnity undergoing physical therapy. Multiple AVMA Practicing veterinary medicine confronts us veterinary practices — (compensation) for Trust sponsored Policies were triggered by with many risk situations. We all need to know your patients. wrongful employment these events. how to provide the best protection possible. practices claims. The AVMA Trust program not only provides Professional liability coverage responds when professional liability coverage for veterinarians. you are accused of veterinary malpractice. The The AVMA Trust has developed insurance client filed a claim against Dr. A for her injuries products to protect you, your family, your staff, and rabies PEP treatment. The insurance carrier and your practice. for Dr. A opined that it is below the standard Let’s talk about how we can of care to allow a client to restrain an animal To discuss your insurance needs, please call us. during treatment. Dr. A consented to settle for AVMA PLIT: 800-228-7548 manage risk at your practice. allowing the client to restrain the kitten. The AVMA LIFE: 800-621-6360 800-228-7548, option 4

22 avmaplit.com What Coverage is Your Practice Missing?

BUSINESS EMPLOYMENT WORKERS’ DATA OWNER’S PRACTICES COMPENSATION BREACH POLICY LIABILITY

This coverage helps Your employees Even the most The average data replace or repair your are the strength of disciplined practices breach costs $214 per building, equipment, your practice. This can face allegations record! Data breach furniture, computers coverage protects of harassment, coverage responds and more. PLIT’s your workers discrimination, and to the loss, theft, policies are unique financially if they’re wrongful employment accidental release, or in that they protect injured on the job. operations. This accidental publication you against one of provides coverage of sensitive records. the most common for legal defense causes of damage at fees and indemnity veterinary practices — (compensation) for your patients. wrongful employment practices claims.

Let’s talk about how we can manage risk at your practice.

800-228-7548, option 4 avmaplit.com Presorted Standard US Postage UPCOMING PAID Helena, MT 59601 MVMA MEETINGS Permit No. 221 Winter 2021 January 22-23 Best Western Plus Gran Tree Inn Bozeman PO Box 6322 • Helena, MT 59604-6322 Summer 2021 June 25-27 Clarion Inn Copper King Hotel & Convention Center Butte

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MVMA CONTACTS 2019-2020 Executive Committee Staff President Beth Blevins, DVM Executive Director Stuart Doggett Ronan [email protected] President-Elect Ed Peretti, DVM Association Coordinator Jenny Bloomquist Butte [email protected] Vice President Cara Voss, DVM Association Coordinator Deedee Grubbs Glendive [email protected] Secretary/Treasurer Mark Albrecht, DVM Bozeman Office/Contact Information PO Box 6322 Director Nancy Belk, DVM Winnett Helena, MT 59604 Phone: 406-447-4259 Director Bart Ladd, DVM www.mtvma.org Stevensville Past President Trevor McCormick, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) DVM – Livingston Contact Information AVMA House Advisory Rex Anderson, DVM 1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100 Council Representative Absarokee Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360 AVMA Delegate William Duncan, DVM Phone: 800-248-2862 Missoula www.avma.org