spring 2013 A publication of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association
in this issue Pheromones for a Fast Anxiety Fix The Truth About “Superbugs” Adult Education – Communicating with Gen X Beware the Emperor’s New Clothes! A B C D Petranek’s Pharmacy Mark Drugs Northshore Keefer’s Pharmacy Mark Drugs Roselle Libertyville, IL Deerfield, IL Mt. Prospect, IL Roselle, IL Ph: 847-362-2005 Ph: 847-419-9898 Ph: 847-255-3220 Ph: 800-776-4378 www.petranekspharmacy.com www.mdnorthshore.com www.keeferspharmacy.com www.markdrugs.com
S Compounding Pharmacists of E Bandy’s Pharmacy Denson Compounding Pharmacy Salem, IL Wheaton, IL Ph: 800-641-3376 PH: 630-668-1180 www.bandyspharmacy.com IllInoIs www.densonscompoundingpharmacy.com
A R B F Maryville Pharmacy D C Glen Ellyn Pharmacy Maryville, IL E F G Glen Ellyn, IL Ph: 618-288-7474 Robert Listecki, R.Ph. www.maryvillerx.com H I Ph: 630-469-5200 K J
Q G The Sullivan Pharmacy 200 Pharmacy Sullivan, IL L Chicago, IL Ph: 217-728-2331 M Ph: 773-374-4550 www.thesullivanpharmacy.com N www.200pharmacy.com O
P H P The Medicine Shoppe Q Martin Avenue Pharmacy Springfield, IL Naperville, IL Ph: 217-525-0058 Ph: 630-355-6400 www.medicineshoppe.com www.martinavenue.com
S O R I St. Joseph Apothecary Doubek Pharmacy St. Joseph, IL Alsip, IL Ph: 217-469-2232 Ph: 708-293-1122 www.stjoerx.com www.doubekpharmacy.com
N J Doug’s Pharmacy District Drugs & Compounding Center Paxton, IL Rock Island, IL Ph: 877-642-DOUG Ph: 866-842-3351 www.dougsrx.com www.districtdrugs.com
M L K Preckshot Professional Pharmacy Elmwood Pharmacy Schott’s Pharmacy Peoria Heights, IL Elmwood, IL Marseilles, IL Ph: 309-679-2047 Cathy Windish, R.Ph. Ph: 815-795-2700 www.preckshot.com Ph: 309-742-2611 www.schottspharmacy.com 2 www.isvma.org | Epitome A B C D Petranek’s Pharmacy Mark Drugs Northshore Keefer’s Pharmacy Mark Drugs Roselle Libertyville, IL Deerfield, IL Mt. Prospect, IL Roselle, IL Ph: 847-362-2005 Ph: 847-419-9898 Ph: 847-255-3220 Ph: 800-776-4378 www.petranekspharmacy.com www.mdnorthshore.com www.keeferspharmacy.com www.markdrugs.com
Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association 1121 Chatham Road S E Compounding Pharmacists of Springfield, IL 62704 Bandy’s Pharmacy Denson Compounding Pharmacy Tel: (217) 546-8381 Salem, IL Wheaton, IL Fax: (217) 546-5633 Ph: 800-641-3376 PH: 630-668-1180 [email protected] www.bandyspharmacy.com IllInoIs www.densonscompoundingpharmacy.com Staff A Peter S. Weber, MS, CAE R B F Executive Director [email protected] Maryville Pharmacy D C Glen Ellyn Pharmacy Maryville, IL E F G Glen Ellyn, IL Ph: 618-288-7474 Robert Listecki, R.Ph. Debbie Lakamp, CAE www.maryvillerx.com H I Ph: 630-469-5200 Assistant Executive Director, K Membership Services J [email protected] Q G Jill Blanton Contents Administrative Assistant The Sullivan Pharmacy 200 Pharmacy Sullivan, IL L Chicago, IL [email protected] President’s Column...... 5 Ph: 217-728-2331 M Ph: 773-374-4550 Executive Director’s Column...... 6 N Kristi McCullough, DVM www.thesullivanpharmacy.com www.200pharmacy.com Welcome New Members...... 9 Director of Education Readers’ Forum...... 10 O [email protected] Attitude and Perspective...... 11 P H Tracy Scaduto, MBA Dean’s Column...... 12 P Finance Manager Donations to Endowment...... 13 The Medicine Shoppe Q Martin Avenue Pharmacy ISVMA Member Seated on National Association of Springfield, IL Naperville, IL [email protected] Ph: 217-525-0058 Ph: 630-355-6400 Veterinary Technicians of America Board...... 13 www.medicineshoppe.com www.martinavenue.com Lobbyists Be the Change!...... 14 Terry Steczo In Memoriam...... 14 Maureen Mulhall Dr. Kandi Norrell Donates Oxygen Masks for Pets to Fire Department That Rescued Cat...... 15 S O R I Convention Managers 25 Vets to Watch in Our 25th Year...... 16 Bonnie Chandler St. Joseph Apothecary Doubek Pharmacy Thinking About Heartworm Prevention...... 17 Janet Bascom St. Joseph, IL Alsip, IL Pheromones for a Fast Anxiety Fix...... 18 Ph: 217-469-2232 Ph: 708-293-1122 Preparation Needed to Comply with Revised www.stjoerx.com www.doubekpharmacy.com OSHA Labeling Requirements...... 19 The Truth About “Superbugs”...... 20 Central Illinois Vet Requests Behavior Referrals...... 21 N J ALDF Ranks Territories with Best, Worst Animal Protection Laws...... 21 Doug’s Pharmacy District Drugs & Compounding Center Innovative Publishing Ink specializes Adult Education – Communicating with Gen X...... 22 in creating custom publications for Lack of a Training Plan Can Put Your Hospital at Risk for Big Bucks!...... 25 Paxton, IL Rock Island, IL businesses and associations. To find Ph: 877-642-DOUG Ph: 866-842-3351 out how your organization can have its Beware the Emperor’s New Clothes!...... 26 www.dougsrx.com www.districtdrugs.com own magazine, contact Aran Jackson at Classifieds...... 28 502.423.7272 or [email protected]. AVMA GHLIT to Support Members Impacted by M L K Changes to Medical Insurance in 2014...... 32
Preckshot Professional Pharmacy Elmwood Pharmacy Schott’s Pharmacy Published March 2013 • 2013/3 www.ipipub.com Peoria Heights, IL Elmwood, IL Marseilles, IL Ph: 309-679-2047 Cathy Windish, R.Ph. Ph: 815-795-2700 www.preckshot.com Ph: 309-742-2611 www.schottspharmacy.com Epitome | www.isvma.org 3 4 www.isvma.org | Epitome President’s Column
The Importance of Team-Building in Business and Life by Clyde Dunphy, DVM
hile attending the AVMA Vet- opportunity to thank each of you for your continued support Werinary Leadership Conference of ISVMA by volunteering for a committee assignment. We are this past January in Chicago, I had the working to get all volunteers on a committee to spread out the opportunity to attend the keynote ad- work of each committee. dress, “World-Class Teams: Adventures in Team Building” with Robyn Benin- The Legislative Committee has been hard at work on a new casa. Robyn is a world-class adventure bill, the Veterinary Medical Ownership Act of 2013, which will racer and motivational speaker. Now I clearly define veterinary practice ownership in Illinois. This bill know you are probably asking, “What will be introduced this spring, as well as the renewal of the does this have to do with veterinary medicine?” But I can as- Veterinary Practice Act. Both of the bills are vital to protecting sure you that your officers, your executive director and all the the pet-owning public and looking after the well-being of all emerging leaders in attendance received some good informa- animals in Illinois. We will keep you informed as to the progress tion on team-building. Robyn’s book, titled How Winning Works, of these two important issues. is filled with real-life examples of how to take advantage of each team member’s strengths and exploiting those strengths by I had the opportunity to attend the first Veterinary Outreach of showing members how amazing and important they are to the the Ovarian Cancer Symptom Awareness (OCSA) organization team. We all are involved with teams daily in our professional at Gateway Veterinary Hospital in Saint Charles, Illinois, January and personal lives. 25, 2013. This was the first public event at a veterinary hospital in Illinois, and more information will be available in the near fu- Let’s each of us take a critical look at our veterinary team, your ture about this important partnership with OCSA, ISVMA, One practice, ISVMA or a committee. In your practice, are you de- Health and your veterinary practice. The ISVMA Public Rela- livering the best message possible to your clients through your tions Committee will be working this year on public awareness team? How are you working to build a better team and help for the veterinary outreach program: Project Breathe (providing all team members be the best they can be? Exceptional team- pet oxygen masks to fire departments); and developing white pa- building requires that you hire the inspired. “Motivation is for pers to use in your practices, on your websites, in newsletters and now, and inspiration is forever.” We must all take time to work to educate the public on a variety of veterinary topics. on our practices and not just in them. If you set aside time for team-building and customer-service training, it will pay large In closing, I believe the ISVMA has an excellent team in place dividends, both professionally and personally. with your officers, the Board of Directors, the committee mem- bers and the staff. We are prepared to meet the challenges that At ISVMA, we have an excellent team of officers, committee may lie ahead. I would like to remind you to mark your calen- members, staff members and you, the membership of our profes- dars for the 2013 AVMA Convention in Chicago, celebrating sional organization. Each of us has different strengths, and we 150 years since the formation of the AVMA in 1863. Illinois is must each rely on one another to get the task at hand accom- the host state for this event and will be providing the Welcome plished. We can accomplish much more together as a team than Center at the July 19-23 convention. I hope you will save the any one of us can individually. We have just finished putting date on your calendar for this historic event. I look forward to together our committee teams for 2013, and I want to take this seeing you there.
Epitome | www.isvma.org 5 Executive Director’s Column
Veterinary Outreach Program – Veterinarians to Elevate Cancer Awareness by Peter S. Weber, MS, CAE
To fight ovarian cancer, the Ovarian Cancer Symptom Awareness Organization (OCSA) is hoping that veterinarians and pets just might save the lives of their owners.
On January 25, a new Veterinary Outreach Program (VOP) was launched at Gateway Veterinary Clinic in St. Charles, and owner Dr. Kurt Klepitsch became the first member of the program, a joint effort that partners OCSA with the Illinois State Vet- erinary Medical Association.
...Many veterinarians report that pet owners who talk with them about their pets’ health issues are often more forthcoming about their own health problems. Dr. Kurt Klepitsch, pictured here with Dr. Brenda Jones, deputy director for the I know that my veterinarians are familiar with almost every broken bone, Illinois Department of Public Health’s Office of Women’s Health, was the first vet- surgery and pain symptom I have suffered in the last 25 years! Dr. Klepitsch erinarian to volunteer for an innovative new approach to veterinarians advocating confirmed pet owners frequently talk about health issues beyond those related public health and bringing awareness to pet-owner health issues. to their animal. Another woman who expressed hope for the program was Vallie Szymanski “I’ve been here since 1990, and, over the course of time, you develop personal of St. Charles, who serves as the executive director of OCSA and has been a relationships with a lot of owners, and they tell you a lot of things about them- client of Dr. Klepitsch for 20 years. She said Klepitsch has taken care of her selves and vice versa,” Klepitsch said. “There is a lot of give and take, and I’d cats and dogs and that she has had many conversations about human health say conversations about someone’s health or that of a child or relative are at least issues with him during that time. a weekly thing.” “I frequently have talked with Dr. Klepitsch about a number of issues after he Klepitsch noted that a lot more women are getting involved in veterinary medi- was done examining one of my pets so as to not interrupt him, and, while he cine, which might help female pet owners open up more about health issues. never pretended to be a medical doctor, he’d often suggest that I have certain things checked out,” Szymanski said. “I never envisioned there being something like this today, but hopefully, a lot of people will join this program and help get the message out,” he said. “My feeling “My father was a veterinarian and lived in a rural area where there aren’t a lot is that this has to be a subtle thing. Veterinarians are very busy folks, but if we of doctors all the time, and veterinarians are often sought out for medical advice. hear things, we want people to know where they can get more help, and if we just But here, they can get help.” reach some of the people, that will be a positive thing. I hope this program will have some legs.” Symptom awareness is an important element in addressing ovarian cancer and a groundswell of support for the VOP program is already building. Veterinary About 45 people gathered in the Gateway Veterinary Clinic waiting room practices are joining the program, there is strong support from the AVMA and as a number of officials connected with the program spoke. Dr. Brenda Jones the One Health Commission, and some large drug companies have initiated dis- represented Gov. Pat Quinn’s office and offered the Governor’s support for cussions with us to offer financial support and take the Veterinary Outreach the program. Program national.
“We want to be part of this movement that helps women and makes them aware of A number of those in attendance admitted their lives had been touched by ovarian this disease, and we support this initiative that gives an opportunity for education cancer, including Dr. W. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the American for women in the state of Illinois,” Jones said. Veterinary Medical Association....
6 www.isvma.org | Epitome “My mother died of ovarian cancer, and this is an exciting program that we feel is quite natural given that human health and animal health are inseparable and are tied together,” he said.
The above excerpt reprinted with permission from The Courier-News, Aurora
The Veterinary Outreach Program is consistent with the mission of the One Health Commission to establish closer professional interactions, collaborations, and educational and research oppor- tunities across the health sciences professions, together with their related disciplines, to improve the health of people, animals, plants and our environment.
One Health is the collaborative effort of multiple health science professions, together with their related disciplines and institu- Front: Cindy Hooper, DVM. Middle: Jennifer Wahlund, DVM; Rosemary Lo- Giudice, DVM, CCRT, CVA, VSMT; Joanne Carlson, DVM (ISVMA Board of tions — working locally, nationally and globally — to attain Directors member); Kandice S. Norrell, DVM, BS, BVSc (ISVMA Public Relations optimal health for people, domestic animals, wildlife, plants and Committee chair); Gail Novak, DVM; and Roger Mahr, DVM (president of the our environment. One Health Commission). Back: Peter Weber, MS, CAE (executive director of the ISVMA); Clyde Dunphy, DVM (president of the ISVMA); Kurt Klepitsch, DVM; ISVMA is proud to have joined OCSA in a new and unique ap- and Ron DeHaven, DVM (CEO of the American Veterinary Medical Association). proach to leverage the relationships that veterinary medical pro- fessionals have with their clients to improve the quality of their sure that owners take care of their own health issues so that they lives. Pet owners care about the health of their animals. Pets need can take care of their pets. Together, we will fight ovarian cancer healthy owners. ISVMA and OCSA are working together to make with animal passion!
Epitome | www.isvma.org 7 8 www.isvma.org | Epitome Welcome New Members
ISVMA would like to welcome the following new members who have joined from November 14, 2012, to February 8, 2013. Thank you for your support! Please help us spread the news about the many benefits of membership in ISVMA — where dues are an investment that pays tremendous dividends!
New Certified Veterinary Drewno, Margaret Niemiec, Nickolas Technician Members Fehr, Justin Nix, Mara Ferrara, Lauren Nourie, Jessica Barnes, Adrea, CVT Fiedler, Tess Odyniec, Elizabeth Bilski, Kathleen, CVT Field Gard, Sherri Ortiz-Kofoed, Shannon Headrick, Anna, BS, LVT Fink, Amy Pasi, Hilary Kopinski, Amy, CVT Fischer, Tessa Piccione, Michelle Palumbo, Stephanie, CVT Foreman, Catherine Ponton, Jessica Panozzo, Abby, CVT Freed, Ryan Rodriguez, Kayley Schuh, Jessie, CVT Getty, Maureen Rupp, Natalie Smith, Megan, CVT Gillespie, Autumn Rushing, Robert Valentine, Rachel, RVT Glenn, Ellen Ryan, Mark Goff, Stephanie Santonacita, Paulette New Veterinarian Members Gould, Amelia Sawa, Ashley Gunderson, Paige Schanks, Jacob Acebey, Lynne, DVM Hillenbrand, Maria Schecker, Teresa Arcaro, Isla, DVM Hooper, Julie Schneider, Lisa Beebe, Terry, DVM Huang, Tzu Yun Seki, Mihoko Brown, Richard, DVM Humphrey, Jann Sloter, Nicole Eschmann, Rebecca, DVM Juna, Jillian St. John, Kathryn Guild, Ayla, VMD Kane, Lauren Stoka, Julie Guzinski, Margaret, DVM, BS Karnia, James Strong, Anne Jablanovic, Branko, DVM, MA Kazmi, Fatima Sutton, Blake Joy, Jeremy, DVM Kelling, Mackenzie Swanson, Danielle Klepitsch, Kurt, DVM Kline, Zachary Varvil, Mara Kuo, Sabrina, DVM, BS Koehler, Justine Vignocchi, Alexandra McManus, Cara, BVMS, MRCVS Kuhl, Amanda Voelker, Julie Nguyen, Lisa, DVM Kuhn, Jenny Wagner, Jennifer Pyatetsky, Talia, VMD Kuntz, Kristin Warren, Stephanie Roessler, Michele, DVM Lee, Eugene Weber, Lindsey Sisto, Lara, DVM Leister, Katie Weil, Malka Wahlund, Jennifer, DVM Li, Joyce Welker, Lauren Yeley, Ericka, DVM Luciano, Janina Paula Wessels, Julianna Mallo, Christine Willenburg, Danielle New DVM Student Members Martin, Samantha Wisniewski, Marcus Martychenko, Melody Wolsic, Cassandra Borchardt, Cindy Mason, Brigitte Wright, Heather Bozelka, Frank Mettendorf, Kiley Yanik, Eliza Byles, Beth Milazzo, Daniele Zachar, Steven Byrum, Mark Mitas, Angela Zary, Steven Childs, Brittany Mohus, Alyssa Zawisza, Amanda Clark, Andrew Molitor, Laure Collins, Jaclyn Morauw, Coralie New CVT Student Members Coty, Tanya Morton, Erica Daily, Laura Moskop, Sarah Pawlus, Tierra, CVT Darcy, Shannon Navrotski, Emily Roberts, Gloria, CVT Dow, Michael Netherton, Sarah
Epitome | www.isvma.org 9 Readers’ Forum
Q: I have a question about performing acupuncture. I am a (3) dated reason for visit and pertinent history; veterinarian in Illinois and just attended a daylong acupuncture (4) physical exam findings; course at the North American Veterinary Conference. I wanted (5) diagnostic, medical, surgical or therapeutic procedures performed; to know about the legality of performing acupuncture based on (6) all medical treatment must include identification of each medication this NAVC course, because I would have had some training but given in the practice, together with the date, dosage, and route of adminis- not be a certified acupuncturist. tration and frequency and duration of treatment; (7) all medicines dispensed or prescribed must be recorded, including direc- A: It is always best to have some certification that demonstrates tions for use and quantity; a level of experience and expertise with a medical modality before (8) any changes in medications or dosages, including telephonically or using it in practice. If you were to injure an animal or upset a cli- electronically initiated changes, must be recorded; ent with something that occurs during the acupuncture treatment (9) if a necropsy is performed, then the record must reflect the findings; of his or her pet and the client were to file a complaint with the (10) any written records and notes, radiographs, sonographic images, IDFPR, the Veterinary Licensing & Disciplinary Board would be video recordings, photographs or other images, and laboratory reports; much more likely to discipline you because of a lack of sufficient (11) other information received as the result of consultation; training in the modality. (12) identification of any designated agent of the client for the purpose of authorizing veterinary medical or animal health care decisions; and Q: Is there any law that you are aware that requires clinics (13) any authorizations, releases, waivers, or other related documents. (new) to have a designated room for their X-ray? I have a clinic (d) Patient records must be maintained for a minimum of 5 years from the date that is building a new location and had heard this from several of the last known contact with an animal patient. people. However, neither my equipment rep nor I am aware of (e) Information and records related to patient care shall remain confidential any such law. except as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this Section.
A: The Illinois Emergency Management Association indicates (Source: P.A. 96-1322, eff. 7-27-10.) that there is no requirement for a separate X-ray room. Q: I know the ISVMA was involved in writing a veterinary Q: What is required to be included in our patient records? sales-tax regulation in Illinois a few years ago. But, I need to be reminded of some of the requirements and how to become a non- A: The requirements for patient records in Illinois are defined in retail veterinary practice. Do you have any resources available the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act: to me?
(225 ILCS 115/25.17) A: Yes! On the front page of the ISVMA website (www.isvma. org), there is a link in the Highlights section called “ISVMA Makes (c) Each person who provides veterinary medical services shall maintain ap- Resources Available to Help Implement the New Sales Tax Regu- propriate patient records as defined by rule. The patient records are the property lation.” There are two links you should review: “1) a copy of the of the practice and the practice owner. Patient records shall, if applicable, new regulation;” and “3) a PowerPoint overview of Illinois Sales include the following: Tax Issues for Veterinary Businesses.” With these two files, you (1) patient identification; can review and easily understand the requirements for veterinary (2) client identification; sales tax and how to avoid becoming a retail practice.
10 www.isvma.org | Epitome Attitude and Perspective
by Caroline G. Miskell, CVT, ISVMA Board Member, Illinois NAVTA State Representative Professional Hospital Development • Sole source from concept to completion • Site Selection optimization Once upon a time, in talking about Zippity Doo Da Suzie Sunshine • Planning, budgets, financing a veterinary hospital, but the ability to perceive the events in your • Design and engineering the work day begins. life/day that focus on the good and gives you • Construction management There are two tech- the strength to cope with difficulties. It is easy • Facility operation optimization nicians, both equally to get caught in a negative cycle, gossiping skilled and knowl- with a coworker, making assumptions about The Only Certified Project and Facility Management Professional edgeable: Nadine clients and under-your-breath comments about and Polly. Polly is an optimist, and Nadine is management. When this occurs, it contributes Optimizes Value a pessimist. Polly smiles and looks forward to to an unhappy environment for the entire hos- Minimizes Effort, Risk and Cost what the day may bring, the opportunity to pital. Our attitude and perception affect the Phone 708-547-5096 make a difference in the lives of the people and way we treat others; the way we see the world; www.jfmccarthyconstruction.com pets she will encounter. Nadine sighs and says, and the way others see us as friends, cowork- “I only hope today isn’t as horrible as yesterday.” ers and mentors. You have the power to create an inspiring and energetic work environment The first appointments arrive; Nadine and Polly when you choose your attitude. I hope you all go over wellness information, take histories and, take the opportunity every day to choose at- as it is dental month, discuss their hospital’s titudes and perceptions that bring happiness dental promotions. While waiting for the next and fulfillment to you, your coworkers, and round of appointments, Polly and Nadine are the clients and pets in your care. talking about how the day is going. Polly says, “I think I convinced Mrs. Brown to schedule a “When you change the way you look at things, dental prophy for Cotton.” Nadine replies, “I the things you look at change.” — Max Planck, don’t know why we bother. We say the same Nobel Prize-winning physicist thing over and over, and less than half the time do any of our clients actually listen.” “The problem is not the problem. The prob- lem is your attitude about the problem.” — It’s time to begin the day’s dental procedures. Capt. Jack Sparrow, Pirates of the Caribbean Nadine is leak-checking the anesthetic ma- chine. There is a hole in the rebreathing I’d like to send a hearty congratulation to bag. “It figures. Nothing ever works when ISVMA member Charlotte Waack, CVT, on you need it to!” she exclaims. “It’s good we being appointed the member at large to the checked now instead of finding it with a pa- NAVTA Board of Directors. tient attached,” Polly says. Thank you to all the faculty members, staff The last appointments are finishing up. Nadine members and students at Joliet Junior College and Polly both say goodbye to Mr. White and for graciously allowing me to speak to you To advertise in future his yorkie Satin. Mr. White is carrying Satin and about the importance of getting involved with issues of Epitome, telling her what a good girl she was and how he ISVMA and how this improves our profession. contact Janet Deuser loves “his little girl.” Polly says, “It’s so touching to see how much he loves his little dog.” Nadine Remember to mark your calendars (and put in at 502.423.7272 grumbles, “Sure, he loves her so much he only your request for time off) for the AVMA 150th or [email protected]. got two heartworm preventive pills!” Annual Convention in Chicago, July 19-23, 2013.
It is amazing the power of our attitudes to af- In conclusion, I thought it would be fun to fect our lives and the lives of those around us. It survey our members on the strangest animal becomes even more amazing when we realize you have treated at your hospitals. Send your that we choose our attitudes. Our days hold replies (and pictures if you have them) to www.ipipub.com countless surprises and challenges which we [email protected], and I’ll include the can approach positively or negatively. I’m not responses in our next edition of the Epitome.
Epitome | www.isvma.org 11 Dean’s Column
Zoo Path Program Marks 20 Years of Service by Herb Whiteley, Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois
I’m proud to an- gram is headquartered at the Loyola University each year and boasts 11 program graduates nounce that the Medical Center in suburban Maywood — an who have gone on to positions in laboratories, college’s Zoo- unlikely location for a program involved in such zoos, and universities in Australia, England, logical Pathol- a diverse range of zoo and wildlife species. In France, Spain and the United States. ogy Program, addition to standard pathology testing, a new founded in 1993, and growing component of the program’s ser- “Our training program enjoys an incredible has grown from vice is its Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, diversity of species,” Dr. Kinsel says. “Even a two-person ser- which offers 18 PCR-based assays to identify though we’re about as far from the ocean as vice focused on bacterial and fungal organisms in samples from you can be, we receive a large complement of the Chicago area to a six-person service with birds, reptiles, fish and marine mammals. fish cases from the Shedd Aquarium.” impact around the world. Dr. Katie Colegrove focuses on those spe- A new component of the residency program “The program was started to provide compre- cies, including researching diseases of wild is the concomitant master’s degree. Residents hensive diagnostic services to three Chicago pinnipeds — seals, sea lions and walruses. Dr. now spend their first two semesters in Ur- institutions — Brookfield Zoo, Lincoln Park Kinsel also works extensively with marine bana, where they complete coursework and Zoo and Shedd Aquarium — to assist them in mammals and most enjoys cetacean cases — see a large complement of domestic species managing the health of their animal popula- whales, dolphins and porpoises. Both have on the necropsy floor of the college’s Veteri- tions,” recalls program director Dr. Mike Kin- served on investigative teams when the Na- nary Diagnostic Laboratory. sel, who was one of the program’s first residents. tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- tion (NOAA) identifies an “unusual mortality “This provides the basis for comparative pathol- Today, the program serves these core insti- event” among marine mammals, as happened ogy,” Dr. Kinsel notes, “as well as invaluable tutions and a great many more, from federal when hundreds of dolphins were stranded preparation for the board examination. To pass wildlife agencies to zoos and conservation or- along the northern Gulf Coast in the past boards, residents need to know more than just ganizations on three continents. several years. snakes, fish and marine animals.”
“Our program has earned an international Dr. Karen Terio has developed a research and The zoo path program also offers an extern- reputation for excellence in diagnostic service, diagnostic focus on exotic feline species and ship program that takes six veterinary students education of residents and veterinary students, free-living primates. She was part of a multi- a year. Residents in the zoo medicine residency contribution to worldwide conservation efforts, institutional research effort that enhanced un- program jointly run by the college, Brookfield and original scholarship,” Dr. Kinsel says. derstanding of AIDS-like immunopathology Zoo and Shedd Aquarium spend one month of in naturally infected SIV-positive chimpanzees training at the zoo path program. All faculty members in the program are engaged and served as a lead author on a resulting publi- in teaching, research and service. Service en- cation in Nature. She also serves on the American What’s next for this prestigious program compasses fee-for-service diagnostics as well as College of Veterinary Pathology examination with an international profile? Something a service to the veterinary pathology profession committee, which she will chair this year. little closer to home. and service on international Species Survival Plans and other programs that support the con- Dr. Jaime Landolfi, who has a half-time appoint- “This year, we plan to expand our work with servation of threatened or endangered species. ment within the zoo path program, is investigat- the Cook County Forest Preserve District Scholarly contributions of the program’s faculty ing tuberculosis in elephants as part of her PhD and the Cook County Department of Animal members and residents since its inception total degree. She has a joint appointment with the and Rabies Control,” Dr. Kinsel says, “study- more than 100 refereed publications and 80 university’s Chicago campus to conduct training ing disease in free-ranging wildlife locally.” meeting abstracts. for lab-animal residents. Plans to recognize the 20-year anniversary are Although it is part of the college’s Veterinary The highly competitive, three-year zoo path in the works, so stay tuned for more on this Diagnostic Laboratory, the Zoo Pathology Pro- residency program accepts a new resident exciting program.
12 www.isvma.org | Epitome Donations to Endowment The year-to-date contributions for FY13 (from July 1, 2012, through December 31, 2012) to the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Foundation are $5,800. This includes the pet memorial donations, silent auction proceeds and general donations. Also received was a $750 donation from the Ovarian Cancer Symptom Awareness Organization (OCSA). The balance in the endowment fund as of December 31, 2012, is $99,606. The ISVMF thanks those who have forwarded contributions.
To make a contribution to the IVMF, a 501(c)(3) charity, visit www.isvma.org/about_us/resources, or call the ISVMA/IVMF office at (217) 546-8381 for a donor form. Your tax-deductible donation should be made payable to the IVMF, c/o ISVMA, 1121 Chatham Road, Springfield, IL 62704. To make a contribution with a credit card, submit the IVMF donor form using your card information.
In Memory of The IVMF thanks the following veterinary clinics for their contributions in memory of the following pets:
From the Animal Medical Tiny Ann Jack Pearl Chester Clinic of Springfield: Buddy Austin Cody Lucky Stone Chelsea Alfalfa Mini Kissy Holly Buster Bennette Max Rascal Jett Shaka Casper Gertie Bowzer Mojo Merlin Padme Snickers Strider Atticus Ginger Savage Ellie Snickers Ollivander Lucy Maggie From The Mt. Sterling/ Sarah Babe Chloe Ditter Rushville Veterinary Rowdy Inky Gator Blacky Clinic, P.C.: Sunshine Lady Gracie Scarlett Tag Pixie Dempsey Maggie Roland Jasmine Willis Baby Holmes Lexie Quincy Max Sweetie Hans Millie Abby Sissy Molly Tilly Elliot Ginny Allie Misty Gray Lacey O.T. Boo Boo Buttons
The IVMF welcomes contributions that are to celebrate an honor or life milestone as well as to memorialize a loss. Download a donor form from the ISVMA website at www.isvma.org/about_us/foundation.html to submit your memorial. Indicate whom you are honoring on the form, and give an address where the memorial notification can be sent.
ISVMA Member Seated on National Association of Veterinary Technicians of America Board
ISVMA member Charlotte Waack, CVT, RVT, was recently seated Charlotte resides in Payson, Illinois, and has been an ISVMA member on the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America since 2011. She has served on the CVT Roles & Responsibilities Task (NAVTA) Executive Board as a member at-large. During her two-year Force for the ISVMA. Charlotte has served as vice president of the Mis- term, Charlotte will be serving on the Finance Committee. In addition, at souri Veterinary Technicians Association, as president of Veterinary the direction of the Executive Board, she would serve as president-elect in Technicians Association of Illinois and as the newsletter editor for the the event of a temporary absence of the president-elect. Association of Veterinary Technician Educators; she has spoken at na- tional veterinary conferences; and she has been published in The NAVTA The mission of NAVTA is to represent and promote the profession of Journal and Veterinary Technician magazine. She is currently employed by veterinary technology. NAVTA provides direction, education, support Veterinary Information Network and works with the Veterinary Support and coordination for its members and works with other allied profes- Personnel Network CE and member services areas. She is also on the sional organizations for the competent care and humane treatment of adjunct faculty staff at San Juan College’s distance-learning veterinary animals. Charlotte will also be working with the student chapters and technology program and John Wood Community College. Charlotte state associations during her tenure on the executive board. previously worked at Klingele Veterinary Clinic in Quincy, Illinois.
Epitome | www.isvma.org 13 Be the Change! by Charlotte Waack, CVT, RVT
To quote Mahatma Gandhi, “You must be the change that you wish to see in the world.”
As veterinary techni- as much work for their organization as they This publication alone is well worth the cost cians, we have many do for their clinic, there are tasks you can help of your membership dues. NAVTA also spon- challenges in trying to with that will not consume your life. The more sors receptions at many national conferences, create change. How people that become involved and volunteer to which gives you a chance to meet the leaders do we change the pub- help, the more readily you can spread around of NAVTA and network with other NAVTA lic’s perception of who the work. Being a part of your state association members. Each year, NAVTA holds a confer- takes care of their pets? can help you network with other technicians in ence that has, in the past, had stellar speakers How can we be better your state, be involved in the veterinary tech- with topics that can help you further your ca- utilized as technicians? nology programs in your area and even help reer. NAVTA has also developed a veterinary How do we change the laws to have better to make changes in the practice act! It all starts assistant certification program that will help rules as to what tasks credentialed technicians with your own state. The first step is to join and give future veterinary assistants a formal educa- can perform and what lay staff members can become a member! tion in the field and make a stronger team for perform? The list is endless. To make those the clinic to provide a higher level of medicine changes happen, you have to be a part of that The next level is the National Association of to your clients and patients. process and help in making the change! Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). This is OUR national organization, and it can NAVTA has developed the Committee on To be a part of the change, you need to become only be as strong as its members. NAVTA has Veterinary Technician Specialties (CVTS) involved. At the state level, most states have vet- state representatives who report to them about that provides a standardized list of criteria for erinary technician associations. In my state, the what is going on at the state level. NAVTA can those interested in specializing in a specific membership organization is the Illinois State then see where their help is needed to support field of veterinary technology. The CVTS is Veterinary Medical Association. How does the state associations. They also support stu- recognized by the American Veterinary Medi- one become involved in one’s state association? dent NAVTA organizations with the veterinary cal Association, and candidates who complete Volunteer! Say yes when asked! There are many technology programs. This helps to show our the advanced pathway to their specialty can tasks that your state association may need help students how being a part of your national orga- be designated the credential of Veterinary on. If you are good at talking to people, you nization can help in their career. NAVTA now Technician Specialist (VTS). There are now may want to help at a booth for the association publishes The NAVTA Journal six times a year, 11 specialties that offer the VTS credential. By to help inform people about the organization and it is one of the few veterinary technology becoming a member of a specialty academy in and recruit members. Maybe you have great publications that still offer a real print journal. the area you are interested in, you can pursue organizational skills and can assist with the In The NAVTA Journal, you can find reports from your VTS credential, develop a network of meetings, legislative, education planning or the state associations, reports from the student mentors and become involved in a higher level even public relations. While many state asso- chapters, professional development articles and of veterinary technology. ciation volunteers find themselves doing almost scientific articles where you can earn CE credit. Continued on page 30
In Memoriam ISVMA’s Members and Board of Directors Extend Condolences to the Families of the Following Veterinarians Dennis Keith Mann, DVM, PhD Charles Scott Dickinson, DVM Dennis Keith Mann, DVM, PhD, was born to Franklin and Mattie Dr. Scott Dickinson, age 83, died peacefully on January 5, 2013, at the Mann on November 11, 1929, in Wabash County, Illinois. He was the Knox County Nursing Home. oldest boy in a family with four children — brother to Jean (Mann) Parks, Robert (Don) Mann and Franklin (Dean) Mann. He is survived by his wife, Margery (Oles), whom he married on March 20, 1954; a daughter, Susan, of Galesburg, Illinois; a son, Phil (Maureen), of Dennis is survived by his wife, Mary, his daughter, Teresa Celia Oneida, Illinois; one granddaughter, Maggie; a sister, Ellen McTammany, (Mann) Pilouras; his son John Morgan Mann; his son Eric Keith, his of Hingham, Massachusetts; a sister-in-law, Ruth Weber Dickinson, of San sister, Jean (Mann) Parks; and his brother Robert (Don). Diego, California; a brother-in-law, Knute Knudson, of Beaufort, South Caro- lina; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Dr. Hugh Dickinson; and a sister, Dr. Ann Dickinson Knudson.
14 www.isvma.org | Epitome Dr. Kandi Norrell with Dutchess the cat and her rescuer and new owner, Toni Rose Day, a firefighter from Gibson City, and Chad Lowell, Invisible Fence of Mid-Illinois Dr. Kandi Norrell Donates Oxygen Masks for Pets to Fire Department That Rescued Cat
After a four-month stay at the University find out how they can participate in Project of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospi- Breathe for their own community. tal, Dutchess is going home. And, to mark Dutchess’ recovery, Dr. Kandi Norrell is do- More About Dutchess nating a set of oxygen masks to the Gibson Dutchess was just 6 months old when, on City Fire Department, the unit that rescued September 19, a house fire claimed all her Dutchess, to help pets that may be caught in family’s possessions; their Saybrook, Illinois, house fires in the future. home; and the life of the family dog.
Dr. Norrell is a primary care veterinarian at Dutchess was rescued by firefighter Toni the University of Illinois clinic. Although Rose Day, but the cat had second- and she was not involved in Dutchess’ treatment, third-degree burns. An initial grant from the she decided to make the donation through college helped cover the cost of immediate a partnership with the Illinois State Veteri- care for Dutchess, but it was clear that she nary Medical Association’s foundation and would need much more time and money to Invisible Fence Brand. complete her recovery.
“The Project Breathe program allows local That’s when Toni created a Facebook page, veterinarians to show their community that “The Dutchess Burn Fund.” Within weeks, they care about the health and safety of their more than 3,000 followers around the world patients even when it comes to safety in the were cheering for Dutchess. Donations home,” Dr. Norrell says. “These kits will aid from Sweden, Canada, the United King- firefighters in administering lifesaving care dom, Turkey and Dubai, as well as dozens for pets that suffer smoke inhalation.” of states, were sent to assist with the costs of Dutchess’ care. Dr. Norrell encourages other veterinarians to contact the state veterinary association to
Epitome | www.isvma.org 15 25 Vets to Watch in Our 25th Year
Amber Labelle, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVO, University of Illinois Col- • Lisa M. Freeman, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVN, Cummings lege of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, has been School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North named in Veterinary Practice News’ article “25 Vets to Watch in Our Grafton, Massachusetts 25th Year” by Lou Anne Epperley. In observance of that milestone, • Katherine Garrett, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, Rood & Riddle Equine the publication staff decided to identify 25 up-and-coming veterinar- Hospital, Lexington, Kentucky ians who, through skill, talent and perseverance, are poised to do • Dan and Rachel Goehl, DVMs, Canton Veterinary Clinic LLC, great things for veterinary medicine. Canton, Missouri • Emilia Gordon, DVM, Arbutus West Animal Clinic, Vancouver, Amber Labelle is an accomplished equine veterinarian. When she’s British Columbia, Canada finished horsing around, Labelle is also a darned good veterinary • Jennifer Hatcher, DVM, Hatcher Family Dairy, College ophthalmologist. It all started with her DVM from the UC Davis Grove, Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, followed by an equine internship • Jason Johnson, DVM, Ross University School of Veterinary at BW Furlong and Associates in New Jersey. Medicine, St. Kitts, West Indies • Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, technical services director, Oxbow While working in an equine ambulatory practice in Long Island, Animal Health, Murdock, Nebraska New York, for the next two years, Labelle was also completing an • Patty Khuly, VMD, MBA, Sunset Animal Clinic, Miami, Florida ophthalmology internship at the Animal Eye Clinic in Norwalk, • Kate Knutson, DVM, Pet Crossing Animal Hospital and Dental Connecticut. Talk about a balancing act! Clinic, Bloomington, Minnesota • Amber Labelle, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVO, University of Illinois Putting the icing on the cake, Labelle in 2010 completed a resi- College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois dency and master’s program in comparative veterinary ophthal- • Deborah Murray, DVM, New Fashion Pork, Jackson, Minnesota mology at the University of Illinois, where she now teaches. Her • Jennifer Olson, DVM, Alamo Feline Health Center, San Antonio heart still has plenty of room for horses, too. An active member of • Jeff Nichol, DVM, Veterinary Emergency and Specialty the American Association of Equine Practitioners, she has numer- Hospital, Albuquerque, New Mexico ous convention presentations to her credit, including an ophthal- • Andy Roark, DVM, MS, Cleveland Park Animal Hospital, mology dry lab last December. Greenville, South Carolina • Jessica Rychel DVM, cVMA, CCRP, Fort Collins Veterinary The 25 veterinarians recognized were: Emergency Hospital, Fort Collins, Colorado • Chris Adolph, DVM, Southpark Veterinary Hospital, Broken • Jodi Westropp, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, University of Arrow, Oklahoma California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, California • Karen Burns Grogan, DVM, MS, DACPV, Dacula, Georgia • Michael J. White, second-year student, Kansas State University • Robin Downing, DVM, The Downing Center for Animal Pain College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, Kansas Management, Windsor, Colorado • Lisa A. Willis, DVM, Mid-Texas Veterinary Associates PC, • Karen E. Felsted, CPA, MS, DVM, CVPM, Felsted Veterinary Gustine, Texas Consultants Inc., Dallas • Angela L. Witzel Lusby, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVN, University of • Daniel A. Franklin, DVM, Mid-Atlantic Veterinary Hospital, Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville Hagerstown, Maryland • Ashley M. Zehnder, DVM, Dipl. ABVP (Avian), exotic animal practitioner, Stanford, California
16 www.isvma.org | Epitome Thinking About Heartworm Prevention With Sheldon Rubin, DVM, Emeritus Director, Blum Animal Hospital; Chicago Past President, American Heartworm Society
The Midwest with its frigid winters may seem 1. Use visuals. Pull out that dusty jar of 4. Send reminders. Program your like a region where the risk of heartworm dis- heartworms and place it on the reception practice management software to auto- ease is reduced. The real risk, says Dr. Shel- desk to stimulate questions. matically remind clients to repurchase don Rubin, a longtime Chicago resident, is heartworm preventives when needed, that owners will try to guess when their pets 2. Talk and listen. Have staff place a “not based on the type and quantity they were are “safe” from heartworm transmission. current on heartworm medication” note in a originally dispensed. patient’s record so the veterinarian can have The incidence of heartworm disease has a discussion with the client. This is also a 5. Keep it simple. The easier it is for pet been on the rise in Illinois, thanks to warmer good time to remind pet owners that most owners to purchase the medication, the winters, a large reservoir of wildlife vectors, heartworm preventives also protect pets better (e.g., provide online ordering and the transfer of homeless pets from the South against intestinal parasites. mail items at no charge). And have clients for adoption and urban microclimates that sign up for an online reminder service to allow mosquitoes to survive cold weather. 3. Don’t be shy. Don’t hesitate to discuss help them remember to give preventives cost as part of your “prevention is important” year-round. Rubin is happy to share a few of the tips he message. Let clients know that your prices are developed over the years. competitive with online pharmacies.
More than a pet to her. More than a sample to us.
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Epitome | www.isvma.org 17 Pheromones for a Fast Anxiety Fix by Sally J. Foote, DVM
Dogs and cats come into our offices in a variety of moods. Those moods range from happy go lucky to downright petrified. It’s so easy to examine and treat a pet when they are happy — but when they are tense or frightened it is a lot more difficult. Relatively fast acting anti-anxiety products are essential to less stressful handling. The analog pet pheromones can help the tense animal to relax in a relatively short period of time. Using these products in the right way, at the right times can help a dog or cat relax at your office, leading to a less stressful exam.
There are two pheromone products that I can also spritz more on your own smock or When I speak at veterinary conferences and feel every exam and treatment area should above the dog so they will inhale the drop- schools, I find those who have not been have available and ready to use. Adaptil lets, which will add to more calming. The satisfied with the results of these products is the analog mother dog pheromone and insert does not describe these applications have been using them in a very limited Feliway is the analog feline marking phero- but they have worked in our office to really way. Some of the most common misuse has mone. Both products come in a plug in or help decrease fear and even aggression. been only using the plug ins for the exam spray form and are manufactured by CEVA. areas; not using the products on bandanas Both can help reduce anxiety, yet there Feliway is the analog to the facial marking or misting around the animal early when are benefits to using a spray over the plug scent of cats. For a cat, when they smell anxiety first starts; and expecting immedi- in and visa versa. Understanding how the the Feliway on objects they think they ate profound results. I am not employed or products work will help you to use these have already claimed this as home so they supported by Ceva; their products are the products to give you and your patients the feel less anxious. The spray primarily needs only ones that I have had any experience best advantage of them. to go on the exam table, staff’s hands, lab using in office for anxiety reduction. coats, cages and the carrier. Some cats may Adaptil is the mother dog pheromone not like the alcohol smell at first so let it Anxiety is additive. Waiting to use anti- analog. It is inhaled by the dog and is ab- air a bit. Many cats will calm within the anxiety products will require more time and sorbed up the roof of the mouth to reach first 10 minutes of recognizing the Feliway product to decrease the fear. Pheromones the calming area of the brain. All dogs but some cats may need more time. I have will never hurt anything, so why not use have the receptors for this product no found putting the Feliway on a bandana them early and often? The cost is relatively matter what age they are. How well acti- for travel to the clinic very helpful to de- low, and it creates an educational opportu- vated those receptors are and how much crease anxiety. While cats rub on objects nity about pet behavior. We have sold a lot calming the product can give can vary on they also groom themselves which would of these products for home use when we tell an individual basis. The amount of time it transfer some of their own scent on their the client what we are doing and they see takes for a dog to show they are calming body. In my opinion the bandana with Fe- the results. It is surprising the different ways can vary also. The greater the concentra- liway is increasing the self-scenting, which a pet may have some kind of fear at home tion of the product inhaled, the better the is limited when a cat is nervous since they that is not a big problem but a client would calming. So, spraying the Adaptil (at least are less likely to groom. appreciate help with it. There are over the 5 pumps) on a bandana or rubbed on the counter versions of Adaptil (Comfort Zone) chest will allow the body heat to evaporate Adaptil spray will last 4 hours. Feliway spray and Feliway if you do not wish to stock them. the product up to the face for inhalation. will last 24 hours. The plug ins work all the This action has more impact than the plug time. In the kennel areas, plug ins placed If you have used these products in other in for the room. Many dogs will show some near the cages of upset animals can be a way ways with success, please write to me and degree of calming within five minutes and to give constant help. Be sure the plug in is tell me. I am very interested in the ways a maximum effect in about 20 minutes with not blocked, or far away from the pets who that clinics are using anti-anxiety products the spray. So for the nervous dog in the need it. Spraying the cage really increases to help their patients. My email is drsally@ waiting area — get a bandana on them right the concentration of the Adaptil or Feliway drsallyjfoote.com. away! Use the waiting time and history-tak- and can give some fast effect. ing time to allow the Adaptil to work. You Reprinted with permission from www.drsallyjfoote.com
18 www.isvma.org | Epitome Preparation Needed to Comply with Revised OSHA Labeling Requirements
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) “Part of the rationale behind the new rules is to have a more consis- has made changes to its labeling requirements for hazardous tent look both to the Material Safety Data Sheets (which will change materials, revising guidelines that have been around since 1994. to the term ‘Safety Data Sheets’) and the secondary labeling,” Miller said. “The new rules were implemented not to make a veterinary Deadlines for training employees and implementing the changes practice’s life miserable, but to state affirmatively that part of the are not yet urgent, with employee training required by Decem- purpose is to harmonize with international requirements.” ber 2013 and full compliance by June 2015. Even so, many hospitals have not yet even learned of the upcoming changes, Tips for preparing for the requirement changes according to Laurie Miller, AAHA practice consultant. Miller shared a few helpful tips for practices so they aren’t unpre- pared when the changes are officially implemented: Miller, who evaluates several veterinary practices each week, • Avoid procrastination — “While the training must take place said she estimates only about half of the hospitals she has visited by December next year (2013) and full compliance must hap- recently have been aware of the changes. pen by June 2015, we tend to procrastinate, and the sooner a veterinary team takes care of this the easier the compliance To prevent hospitals from being caught off-guard, NEWStat will be with the new program,” Miller said. took a closer look at the new requirements and how practices • Put someone in charge — Practices should pass the informa- can prepare for compliance. tion about the labeling changes along to the person who is in charge of ensuring compliance, such as a safety officer or Details of labeling requirement modifications manager, Miller said. That person can then be responsible for The new OSHA requirements state that as of June 1, 2015, all ensuring that employee training and other steps toward com- hazardous materials labels — both primary and secondary — pliance are completed on time. will need to feature: • Check for updates — “Keep checking the OSHA website • Pictograms frequently for more updated information. I am finding that • A signal word they are updating on a fairly regular basis with new training • Hazard and precautionary statements information and definitions,” Miller said. • Product identifier • Supplier identification Originally published in NEWStat
A sample image of the new label can be viewed on the OSHA website at www.osha.gov/Publications/HazComm_QuickCard_ Labels.html.
According to OSHA, the changes are intended to more closely align the Hazard Communication Standard with the United Na- tions’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Label- ing of Chemicals.
Benefits of implementing a globally standardized labeling sys- tem include safer handling of chemicals, less confusion in the workplace, and enhanced worker comprehension of hazards, OSHA said on its website.
While compliance will initially mean an adjustment period for veterinary practices, ultimately it will help all employees be on the same page when it comes to dealing with hazardous materi- als, according to Miller.
Epitome | www.isvma.org 19 The Truth About “Superbugs” AVMA’s Dr. Hoang Participates in Webcast on Antibiotic Use in Livestock
Dr. Christine Hoang, DVM, MPH, CPH, ways been to achieve a system where these drugs are used judiciously assistant director of scientific activities at for the benefit of both animal and human health.” the American Veterinary Medical Associa- The prevention of antibiotic resistance in humans is one of the rea- tion (AVMA) and an expert on antimicro- sons why veterinarians support the continued use of preventive ap- bial resistance, shed light on the use of plications of antibiotics in the practice of herd medicine on farms. antibiotics in livestock during a recent U.S. Dr. Hoang explained to the listening audience that waiting until an animal is sick to use antibiotics could, in fact, make it more likely Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) panel these “superbugs” will develop, because veterinarians will be forced discussion (www.fooddialogues.com/ny- to treat sick animals with more powerful antibiotics that are more food-dialogues/antibiotics-and-your-food). commonly used in human medicine and use them at higher doses.
One of the most common criticisms about the use of antibiotics on Dr. Hoang explained that there are other benefits of preventive ap- farms is that it might lead to the creation of resistant human patho- plications of antibiotics on farms. Preventive antibiotic use reduces gens, such as MRSA and C. difficile. Dr. Hoang stated that these fears the transmission of foodborne illnesses into our food supply, and are unfounded, because studies have shown that these “superbugs” there are substantial animal welfare benefits. “Because you are pre- are not related to farming. “They’re human-related resistant infec- venting the disease before it occurs, there is benefit to the animals tions that are in no way related to antibiotic use in livestock produc- because they are not getting sick and suffering,” she said. tion,” she said. Dr. Hoang also explained the benefits of including antibiotics in ani- She also explained that the AVMA has been working tirelessly to mal feed, which is something that has drawn criticism in the media. ensure that antibiotic use on farms is brought under the direct con- Including preventive medications in livestock feed is simply safer trol of veterinarians. Today, many antibiotics can be purchased by and more humane, reducing the need for injections or manual oral farmers over the counter. Dr. Hoang explained that efforts to bring dosing of animals. all agricultural antibiotic applications under the control of veterinar- ians will help ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously. To learn more about this important issue, the AVMA encourages people to view the complete webcast (www.fooddialogues.com/ny- “The AVMA is working very hard with the Food and Drug Admin- food-dialogues/antibiotics-and-your-food) entitled “Antibiotics and istration to establish veterinary oversight over how antibiotics are Your Food,” which was webcast live on November 15, 2012. For being used,” Dr. Hoang said. “The goal of veterinary medicine has al- more information about the AVMA and the Association’s policies concerning this issue, visit www.avma.org.
20 www.isvma.org | Epitome Central Illinois Vet Requests Behavior Referrals Studies have shown that the primary reason be mentored in her nontraditional residency the owner and pet. The client is counseled pets are relinquished to animal shelters is program by Dr. Valarie Tynes, DVM, a dip- and provided a written report regarding the due to behavior problems. The majority of lomate of the American College of Veteri- specific protocol for behavior modification. new pets that do not remain in their original nary Behaviorists for the last 10 years. Dr. The referring veterinarian will receive a copy home for more than one year are reported Tynes will directly supervise her first 75 for his or her records. All clients will be sent to exhibit behavior problems, according to cases and indirectly supervise the following back to the referring veterinarian for any their owners, who cite this as the primary 375 cases by phone and e-mail. additional recommended diagnostics and reason for relinquishing them. medication unless the referring veterinarian Dr. Koch’s behavioral services can be an indicates otherwise. Clients will be coached Veterinarians throughout Illinois now have extension of the services you provide at through the process of behavior modifica- a new referral option for animal behavioral your hospital. Initially, behavioral cases are tion as needed by Dr. Koch, and she will consultations. Colleen Koch, a 1990 gradu- identified by you or the client and evaluated communicate the patient’s progress to you. ate of the University of Illinois College of through a questionnaire completed by the Veterinary Medicine, is in the initial stages owner. To identify any medical conditions If you have any questions regarding be- of a program that leads to board certifica- that may contribute to the animal’s behavior havioral referrals or to refer a client, please tion in the specialty of veterinary behavior problem, it is helpful to have a current medi- contact Colleen S. Koch, DVM, KPA- medicine. She has focused her passion for cal history, from your clinic, with a medical CTP, 1150 Tendick, Jacksonville, IL 62650, animal behavior medicine and concentrated workup including bloodwork (CBC, chemis- phone (217) 245-9508, fax (217) 245-0380, her continuing education experience in this try, thyroid) and urinalysis. After reviewing or e-mail [email protected]. area for more than six years. Dr. Koch will these items, Dr. Koch will then meet with
ALDF Ranks Territories with Best, Worst Animal Protection Laws The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) re- beit in a slightly different order. California ALDF says conceals “animal abuse, food cently released its seventh annual rankings jumped from fifth to third by strengthen- safety risks, and illegal working condi- report of animal protection laws in all U.S. ing its forfeiture and seizure laws, the ALDF tions from consumers.” states and territories. report said. • In a sign of progress, since 2006, seven jurisdictions have added felony pen- According to the ALDF, the top five states The bottom five states also had some famil- alties (for the first time) for extreme with the most effective animal protection iar faces, as Kentucky maintained the last animal cruelty or torture: Alaska, Arkan- laws are: spot on the list for the sixth straight year. sas, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Mississippi, 1. Illinois North Dakota and South Dakota also stayed and Utah. 2. Maine in the bottom five due to their distinction as 3. California the only states without felony penalties for Originally published in NEWStat 4. Michigan animal abusers. 5. Oregon Additional highlights from the report include: The states that found their way to the bot- • Idaho was the most-improved state. tom of the ALDF’s list are: Idaho jumped eight spots and moved 1. New Mexico out of the bottom five due to its estab- 2. South Dakota lishment of felony provisions for cruelty, 3. Iowa neglect, abandonment and cockfighting. 4. North Dakota • Iowa and Utah joined Kansas, Montana, 5. Kentucky and North Dakota as states that have passed “ag gag” laws. These laws make According to the ALDF, the top five list it illegal to take photographs or record includes the same states as last year, al- video at agricultural facilities, which the
Epitome | www.isvma.org 21 Adult Education Communicating with Gen X by Thomas E. Catanzaro, DVM, MHA, LFACHE, Diplomate, American College of Healthcare Executives, CEO, Veterinary Consulting International
“To hear is to forget; to see is to remember; to do is to understand.” — modified from the Chinese proverb by Dr. Tom Cat
Factoid: Adult education does NOT exist many settled for being in the major part of “What we learn with pleasure we never forget.” on a bell curve, nor does health care com- the bell curve. — Alfred Mercier petency. The teachers of your past were happy to place your efforts on a bell curve In veterinary medicine, or any health care pro- Emotion and Gender and blame the lack of learning on the stu- fession, we do not have that luxury — it is a (generalities – not guarantees) dent. In health care, competency is excel- “go” or “no-go” world of curative medicine. lence, and there are no lesser positions for Either you have the IV in the vein, or you do Men Tend to: Women Tend to: the learner. Clients and our patients will not. Either you have re-established an airway in Hide emotions Display emotions not benefit from a “C”-average provider. an anesthetic misadventure, or you bury your Seem unaware Relate to others A few basic facts need to be shared to start patient. Either you have stopped the bright red Miss emotional cues Read others well this discussion: blood from spurting across the room, or your Ignore social approval Seek approval 1. Adults learn only when they are ready to trauma case will exsanguinate, and you can Answer the question Want a discussion learn (the “teachable moment”) bury your mistake. There is no such thing as a Forget and move on Carry a vendetta 2. Adults learn best in one-on-one situa- partial pregnancy — it is all or nothing! tions (tailored development) The adult educators have determined there 3. Adults learn in 20-minute windows — if The Gen-X practice staff will not make it any are four basic learning preferences in the longer, their minds drift. easier on the trainer: current American/Australian population (at 4. Adults need to review the key points at least least they have classified four types for this seven times in the 21 days following the They Say: They Respond: general discussion): “education points” to retain the concepts. I’m an individual! We want teams. 5. Baby boomers learned for loyalty; Gen Don’t hassle me! Challenge us. Talkers (emote/relate) – learn best X-ers learn for self-development. Give me direction! Leave us alone. through sharing, relating and discussing; Tell me the information! Let us try it. they seek attention, like working in groups The educators in your past were concerned Learning’s cool! Learning is boring. and enjoy roleplaying that you learned the material; you remem- Don’t give me history! Tell us why. ber your educators with a fond feeling, Make it quick! Make it fun. Thinkers (reflect/relate) – learn best while teachers were a dime a dozen and eas- through logic and fact-gathering; they ily forgotten. In health care, leaders ensure Many adults fear learning environments be- want to hear from experts, want the sci- learning occurs with meaningful application cause of past experiences: ence shared, explore the principles, analyze phases, measured against known standards • Bad memories ideas, theorize, read and desire the one-on- of competency. Many managers are happy • Lack of confidence one time “teaching” and “grading” staff members on • Fear of comparisons some arbitrary 1-to-10 scale; leaders want to • Social unease Testers (react/reflect) – learn through develop people through work and strive for • Suspicion testing and objective assessment of ex- developing competency that drives a trust amples; they are problem-solvers, they in the learner. So let’s look at the learners “They” are not out to get you. “They” are usu- seek results, and they enjoy experiment- more closely. ally just individuals who have never had the ing and tinkering opportunity for competency-based learning; Peculiarities of Adult Learning but, then again, most trainers in veterinary Tryers (react/emote) – learn through im- The veterinary practice staff is most often practice have never learned how to be effec- pulsive trial and error; it must make sense; a very diverse group of highly committed tive educators. That is the thesis of this pre- action-oriented, decide and apply, connect- people. They were trained in a school sys- sentation, understanding who the learners are, ing ideas, need to stay productively active tem that had a bell-curve mentality, and and how they learn best.
22 www.isvma.org | Epitome Significant learning combines the logical and the in- tuitive, the intellect and the feelings, the concept and the experience, and the idea and the meaning!
There are titles and positions provided in the balance of this article, and the source document is The Practice Success Prescription: Team-Based Veterinary Healthcare Delivery, VIN Press, circa 2008; it is available for FREE DOWNLOAD from the VIN Library, www.vin.com.
The trainers in a practice should be subject- matter experts, and no one can be a trainer of everything; people are intelligent at different things. Learners who start with their own interest areas seem to learn more effectively. The train- ing coordinator of a practice knows who is the best trainer for which subject, ensures that he or she is recognized in public as the trainer for that subject, and schedules topics into the training tors ensure the trainers are causing the appropri- must be a change of pace, and/or practical ap- plan to support the practice initiatives and mis- ate learning to be occurring with the candidate(s) plication, to mark each segment for EFFECTIVE sion focus. This is explained in detail in the VCI or staff members. As a practice trainer is develop- TEACHING to be evaluated. Signature Series monograph Staff Orientation & ing his or her “effective teaching” lesson plan, he Training, which has zone-specific four-phase de- or she needs to think about the learner(s) as well When doing one-on-one, it is best if the velopment programs and the electronic Tool Kit as the subject matter. They must remember the trainer meets the learner’s preferred learn- (available from VIN Bookstore, www.vin.com). five factors of adult learning discussed earlier ing style; but, in groups, trainers must use in this article, and ensure the subject matter is multiple methods to balance their approach The hiring team (discussed at length in Building broken down into easy-to-digest segments. All to a diverse group of learners. The matrix the Successful Veterinary Practice: Innovations & Creativ- too often, the trainer tries to put too much into below allows the trainer to address the dif- ity (Volume 3)), published by Blackwell/Wiley & too long a training period, and most adult learn- ferent styles of delivery to balance his or Sons, becomes the training mentors, and men- ers phase out after about 20 minutes’ time; there her presentation(s):
Trainers “Lesson Plan” Matrix
Method wt Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 Step 10 experiment 10 paired demo 9 individual 8 assessment small-group 7 discussion role play 6 case study 5 large-group 4 discussion video 3 presentation interactive 2 seminar lecture 1 Timeline <30 sec Learning Objectives (outcomes):
Epitome | www.isvma.org 23 The effective teaching sequence is: cap- ture attention (discovery), set up the need, determine competency, ensure teaching/learning, targeted application, evaluation by L.O.s.
Leadership Skills for Trainers Planning — The core of a successful practice is effective planning. As the leader, you must do it with them when no one else can, but please don’t do it for the team for very long. As soon as possible, train your team to do the planning. When the staff members assume the responsibility for the planning process, they also assume the operational activities of daily practice. When the team is doing its job, health care delivery becomes fun again. Effective teaching is more than talking at people. Don’t • Application is the demonstration of the “Done by the staff members for their assume staff members have learned something just because competency — the train-to-trust level of programs.” you’ve written a protocol manual or taught it once. The practice performance. proof lies in what they can do. • Evaluation is based on the outcomes set Remember Always, the Roots of in the learning objectives and that have Planning Include: The trick is to put them into a position where not changed during teaching/learning or • Patient advocacy they see the need for the skill or knowledge application. Recycling means the trainer • Client-centered service you wish them to learn, then offer the help did not get the concept/skill across in an • Practice philosophy and core values they need to learn it. After they think they adequate manner for replication. • Mission focus and standards of care have learned the skill, let them try it by them- • Continuous quality improvement (CQI) selves, but monitored by someone who knows Evaluating is more than keeping a score- • The power of the entire health care what the predetermined standards are for card; everyone assesses events both during delivery team the practice. and after they happen. For the evaluation process to work, you must have a goal for Planning allows more than one plan to be writ- Replication is learning; improvement re- each activity; a set of expectations that ten for achieving a similar outcome, so the flects knowledge application(s). everyone can understand is the measuring team hitting operational roadblocks and speed standard BEFORE the event occurs. The bumps always has alternatives that can be tried Learning Objectives (Three to Five) practice philosophy, its core values and the without going back to the boss with a failure. • Learning objectives are for the trainer, not mission statement are the guidelines that the participants; they are usually outcome/ should form the evaluation expectations. The bottom line of planning is actually exciting action-oriented and kept to only three to for most teams. It has been shown time after five elements for any session. If the learner Evaluation is a basic leadership skill in it- time, for every 15 minutes of dedicated plan- replicates the learning objectives (without self, although, in the other two basic group ning, the user usually gains at least an hour back being told) after teaching learning, then ef- skills, we just skimmed the surface. This is during the implementation process. fective teaching has occurred. because the decision was made to use the • Discoveries are opportunities (artificial or term “evaluation” and allow the mispercep- Effective Teaching — Every practice needs actual) to have the team ask to know more, tions to remain ... then we would ask the in-service training, but no one has been often called “teachable moments.” Mini- reader to learn about a complete evaluation taught how to be a trainer. Just because you discoveries should recur continuously during teach- process. After grasping “the balance” be- have been through some school, it does ing/learning with the facilitated-discussion method of tween group and individual needs required not mean you understand adult education. sharing knowledge. for appropriate evaluation in team-based Adults only learn when they are ready, and • Teaching/learning means competency of health care delivery, we ask you, the reader, we call those rare points in time “teachable performance is the application expecta- to go back and read up on basic leadership moments.” In the real world, we must often tion. When a team member does not ad- skills; assess what you read, assumed and construct “discovery” events (or be ready to equately learn, it is the trainer’s concern to surmised; then recalibrate your concepts to grab a naturally occurring one) to initiate find an alternative teaching method that the new definition. educational moments. will work better.
24 www.isvma.org | Epitome Lack of a Training Plan Can Put Your Hospital at Risk for Big Bucks! A Veterinary Attorney’s View by Dr. Sophia Yin, DVM, MS
Case 1: Kennel worker at hospital A walked into the wards to take So, just what is that standard of care? Well, according to the 2012 an American Bulldog out of its run. The dog bites the employee, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) guidelines on who experienced serious damage to the arm. The employee physical restraint of animals (https://www.avma.org/KB/Policies/ is seeking damages not only from the dog owner but also from Pages/Physical-Restraint-of-Animals.aspx), one standard is that vet- the veterinary hospital for failing to provide adequate training erinary hospitals do need to provide staff training on handling tech- on handling. niques that minimize fear and stress. The guidelines state:
Case 2: Client B boards her American Bull Terrier at boarding “The method used should provide the least restraint [of an animal] required to kennel B for a month. The dog has a history of aggression to other allow the specific procedure(s) to be performed properly, should minimize fear, dogs and starts fence fighting with a dog in an adjacent run. He pain, stress and suffering for the animal, and should protect both the animal grabs hold of the other dog through the fence. The owner of the and personnel from harm. Every effort should be made to ensure adequate and kennel is bitten on the hand while breaking up the fight. The injury ongoing training in animal handling and behavior by all parties involved, so required surgery and the owner lost some function in that hand. that distress and physical restraint are minimized.” He is suing Client B. Client B alleges that boarding kennel B staff were not adequately trained in low stress handling techniques and Furthermore, the number of resources available to meet this stan- as a result they were negligent in their handling skills. dard has been increasing steadily over the last five years. Lectures on low stress handling occur at many Dr. James Wilson, veterinary attorney and veterinary conferences and lab sessions too, author of Law and Ethics of the Veterinary Pro- including at the North American Veterinary fession (http://www.amazon.com/Ethics- Conference and Western Veterinary Con- Veterinary-Profession-James-Wilson/ ference. The American Association of dp/0962100706) knows these types of Feline Practitioners has published guide- cases all too well. Wilson states, lines on how to set up a Feline Friendly Practice http://catvets.com/uploads/ “What the courts are going to look for in cases PDF/Nov2009HandlingCats.pdf. In ad- involving negligent training and management of dition to the Low Stress Handling, Restraint a veterinary practice, kennel or daycare center and Behavior Modification of Dogs & Cats where a staff member or client is injured by an ag- (book and DVD), CattleDog Publishing gressive animal will be: has released a seminar DVD on the topic. 1. A determination of the resources available for use by these businesses, So, while the cases listed above may seem foreign 2. Whether or not the hospital, kennel or daycare owner pos- or extreme, due to the improving standards of care for sesses those resources, handling of animals, the liability to veterinary hospital and day- 3. How much effort has gone into using them, or any materials, to train staff care owners for not providing a good handling training program will members at the defendant’s location with information they have in place increase. Best to take preventative action and be well prepared. (records of training will be important here) 4. How much effort was made to integrate information and training from References and additional resources: outside sources into their materials developed by veterinary behaviorists • AVMA Guidelines for Low Stress Handling https://www.avma.org/KB/Policies/Pages/ and other credentialed behaviorists, and Physical-Restraint-of-Animals.aspx • NAVC Hands-On Labs and Workshops (http://navc.com/navc-conference/program/hands- 5. What type of ongoing training and retraining is provided by the business. on-labs.html) • Law and Ethics of the Veterinary Profession (http://www.amazon.com/Ethics- In the end, a court will look for expert witnesses to address each of the above Veterinary-Profession-James-Wilson/dp/0962100706) points and determine what resources are available in the marketplace and • Priority Veterinary Management Consultants (http://www.pvmc.net/) used by others, and how close the defendant’s business came to meeting the • Dr. Yin’s Upcoming Speaking Engagements (http://drsophiayin.com/speaking-engagements/ “standard of care for other reasonably prudent businesses under the same or speaking-schedule) similar circumstances.” Reprinted with permission from www.drsophiayin.com
Epitome | www.isvma.org 25 Beware the Emperor’s New Clothes! Why Putting All Your Eggs in the Social-Media Basket May Leave Your Practice Feeling Naked!
As a young child, you probably came across the tale of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by the famous Danish children’s fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen. You may remem- ber that the tale was about a vain emperor who hired two tailors to make him the finest suit of clothes the world had ever seen. Well, it turned out that the tailors were really two swindlers who “made” the suit from a fabric invisible to anyone who was unfit for his position or “hopelessly stupid.” by Dean Biggs
Of course, the emperor couldn’t see the cloth The Three Pillars of himself but pretended that he could, for fear Veterinary Practice Growth of appearing unfit for his position; his min- The fact is that there are three areas that you isters did the same. When the swindlers re- should be focusing on every day in order to ported that the suit was finished, they mimed grow your practice. When ANY veterinary dressing him, and the emperor marched in practice systematically focuses on these areas, procession before his subjects. Despite the the result is sustainable and profitable growth. emperor appearing naked, everyone played We call these areas “The Three Fundamental along with the pretense, until a child in the and Irrefutable Pillars of Veterinary Practice crowd, too young to understand the desir- Growth.” They’re not rocket science, but we ability of keeping up the pretense, blurted see far too many practices ignoring them out that the emperor was, in fact, wearing while hoping their new suits of “social-media nothing at all! The cry was taken up by oth- clothes” will give them everything they want. ers, but, despite cringing and suspecting the assertion was true, the emperor continued Pillar 1 – Client Attraction the procession. You must do things every day to increase the Now, don’t get me wrong — social media has number of clients in your practice. It sounds So what has this famous Hans Christian Ander- an important part to play in your business, and obvious, but few practices can point to some- sen tale got to do with your veterinary business? you would be foolish to ignore it completely. thing they do every day that systematically In fact, we have written many articles for our brings in new clients. Don’t forget, you’ve got Well, it is my assertion that, every day, vet- Veterinary Insiders Club members on how to to bring in as many pets this month as you erinary practice owners are being sold their use social-media sites such as Facebook and lose just to stay still! Bringing 40 new clients very own set of “Emperor’s New Clothes” Pinterest within their veterinary business. But in this month means nothing if you euthanize in the form of social media. As a veterinary here’s the thing: social media is just one 20, lose 10 to natural causes and 10 move out business owner, what you need are proven, small activity that should be taking place of town. systematic ways to grow your business. How- in your veterinary practice. If you focus ever, what you may be attracted to is the lat- all of your practice-growing efforts on social Client attraction starts with having an effec- est, brightest, shiniest idea to get new clients. media, you will find yourself feeling bare … of tive referral system in place. After all, if you Of course, there are lots of “tailors” out there new clients … sooner rather than later. could get each of your clients to refer just one who will be only too pleased to furnish your new client … your practice would double in practice with their social-media management I’ve said before that “Veterinarians who size! Don’t tell me you want to spend money services, whose results are invisible to anyone are better at marketing — and who create on social media if you haven’t got an effective who doesn’t understand the world of “likes” better systems — will have more success referral system in place! and “tweets.” Of course, sometimes the tai- than veterinarians who are more clinically lors come from within your own practice, skilled!” Well, having a Facebook page That’s not to say you can’t use Facebook and sometimes you may even try to make isn’t marketing! It’s just another media for to attract new clients, but consider Face- your own set of social-media clothes! getting your message out. book ads targeted to the demographic
26 www.isvma.org | Epitome of your ideal client as a more measurable percentage points. This means that there alternative to the social side of Facebook. are now 25 percent more new clients, only 5 percent are lost, and each client is now Pillar 2 – Client Retention worth $315 per year. You must do things every day to decrease the number of clients leaving to go to other Revenue = (2,000 + 500 - 100) X $315 practices or taking the option to keep their Revenue = $756,000 pet at home. It is estimated that, on aver- age, veterinary practices lose 10 percent of The 5 percent adjustment of each pillar their client bases every year. Far too many produced a cumulative effect of 15 percent, practices give up on inactive clients too an increase in revenue that clearly demon- quickly and don’t do enough to keep in strates the power of applying the Three Pil- touch between visits. Frequent quality com- management system can tell you who has lars of Veterinary Practice Growth. But it munication with your clients is essential to senior pets, who has pets that haven’t had a doesn’t stop there, because the bigger the client retention. dental cleaning in the past 12 months, who increase, the bigger the cumulative effect. has pets who aren’t on a heartworm preven- For example, a 10 percent swing in each pil- By the way, if you think that Facebook is tative and much more besides. lar results in a 31 percent increase in rev- an effective way to communicate with your enue! Not only that, but, if you achieved clients, you may be mistaken. In fact, Face- You can get your clients to spend more on this 10-percentage-point improvement to book itself has admitted that, on average, each visit just by offering them things they each pillar in your practice every year, you only 16 percent of an individual’s friends need and by making them more aware of would double your practice size in less than will see a post that person shares on Face- what you have to offer. Previously, I have three years! book. The same is true of a company’s fans. revealed how the “entrepreneurial veterinar- In other words, when you post something ian” did the most for his clients by offering By the way, we’re not suggesting for one on your practice’s Facebook business page, pet-related products and services that they moment that companies who provide so- on average, only 16 percent of the people would otherwise have to buy elsewhere. cial-media services are swindlers. In fact, who have “liked” your page will actually see many provide a good service at manag- the post! The Compound Effect ing social-media services for veterinary This is a deceptively simple but remarkably practices. However, here are a couple of This is by design, not accident, and Face- powerful framework. We quantify these el- things to bear in mind if you’re thinking book is now in the process of introducing ements and combine them into a formula of hiring one: a “pay-to-play” post generator. In other that we can apply scientifically in all of our 1. Can it provide you with measurable results? words, you will soon be given the option coaching and product development. To see 2. Can it really be the social voice of your to extend the reach of your post to more how it works, let’s look at an example, sim- practice? Social media is all about per- of your fans by paying a fee! So Facebook plifying the math for the demonstration. sonal relationships and sharing real-life is not the free marketing tool that most experiences as they happen. Can a third people think. Suppose a veterinary practice has 2,000 ac- party really do that for your practice? I tive clients and normally adds 20 percent would suggest that a personal message Pillar 3 – Client Revenue new clients each year (i.e., 400) but also about the Labrador you just saved would You must do things every day to increase loses 10 percent of existing clients each year be more relevant than some generic the value of each client to your prac- (i.e., 200). For the sake of simplicity, let’s as- message from an outsider. tice. This means effectively working at sume that each client has an annual average two things: value of $300. So, yes, by all means, invest in social media. 1. Coming up with ethical ways to get your But please don’t make it the only investment clients to visit your practice more often This means that the practice’s revenue can in growing your practice. Otherwise, just 2. Coming up with ethical ways to get your be calculated roughly as follows: like the emperor, it you could be you who is clients to spend more on each visit putting on a convincing smile while feeling Revenue = (Existing Customers + New Cus- decidedly exposed. You can get your clients to come in more tomers - Lost Customers) X Average Value often by frequently educating them about Revenue = (2,000 + 400 - 200) X $300 Dean Biggs is a veterinary marketing strategist and co- Revenue = $660,000 author of the book Secrets To Growing Your Veteri- preventive wellness and promoting your nary Practice In The New Economy, available from preventive services to them. That doesn’t Amazon.com and good bookstores. To download a free mean promoting all of your services to all Now let’s see what would happen if we chapter of the book, visit www.vetbook-is.com. of your clients. For example, your practice improved each factor by a conservative 5
Epitome | www.isvma.org 27 Classifieds
SEEKING EMPLOYMENT preferred. We focus on client educa- • Full-time friendly, energetic veterinarian • Highly experienced CVT available tion, preventive health care, diagnostic sought for a busy, exotic and compan- for relief or full-time employment. medicine, soft-tissue and orthopedic ion animal practice in northeastern Illi- 2001 graduate of Los Angeles Pierce surgery. Will consider committed new nois. We are a modern, well-equipped, College, Woodland Hills, Califor- graduate. Send résumé: 2323 Eureka friendly, client-oriented hospital with nia; experience in private practice, Road, Washington, IL 61571 or e-mail a wonderful and varied clientele and Humane Society and animal control [email protected]. Web: www. great support staff. Avian/exotic expe- environments as well as in academia. tvcvet.com. rience beneficial. Salary commensurate Please call (773) 308-4841 OR e- with experience plus benefits. Con- mail for full résumé and references at • Chicago Veterinary Emergency and tact Animal Care and Medical Center, [email protected]. Specialty Center, located near down- 438 Peterson Road, Libertyville, IL town Chicago, is one of the largest 60048: phone 847-362-5954, or visit • Experienced veterinarian with excellent and fastest-growing specialty hospi- animalcarelibertyville.com. diagnostic and interpersonal skills relo- tals in the Chicagoland area. We are cating to the west northwest suburbs of looking for a full-time veterinary • Full-time veterinarian wanted for busy, Chicago. Would prefer full-time posi- physiotherapist to join our group of progressive, client-oriented, four-doc- tion in a small-animal practice. I can be specialists and provide therapy and tor practice located in growing north reached at [email protected] rehabilitation services to our patients. central Illinois Valley region (60 miles or (281) 333-3420. Qualified applicants should be a DVM from Chicago area). Seeking dedi- and be certified by an authorized cated, enthusiastic, motivated team • Experienced in small, large and equine physiotherapy training program. Our player looking for an excellent career practice. Interested in a position in physiotherapist will have access to a opportunity. ABVP-certified practi- northern Illinois or southern Wiscon- new state-of-the art facility, which tioner and four certified technicians sin. Will consider full-time, part-time will include a swimming pool, water on staff. Brand-new well-equipped, or relief. Please contact me by e-mail: and land treadmills, and other neces- modern facility with excellent sup- [email protected]. sary equipment. Interested applicants port staff offers environment to grow should contact Dr. Michael Podell at professionally, intellectually and fi- VETERINARY RELIEF [email protected]. nancially. Excellent compensation and • Relief ambulatory equine practitioner benefits package. Contact Dr. Steve available with services available to the • Lincolnway Animal Hospital seeks Dullard, Ancare Veterinary Clinic Chicagoland area and northern Illinois. an enthusiastic, caring veterinarian to PC, 1205 6th Avenue, Mendota, IL Résumé available, available seven days be our chief of staff. Our hospital has 61342, phone (815) 539-3844, e- per week. Please contact Dr. Abby long-established roots in our commu- mail [email protected], or visit Reising at (847) 610-0469 or e-mail nity and a reputation for combining our website at www.ancarevet.com [email protected]. high-quality medicine with exceptional or our Facebook page to see many of client service. The ideal candidate has our services. • Small-animal medicine/surgery/emer- at least five years of experience, strong gency relief veterinarian available surgical and dental skills and must be a • Associate veterinarian wanted for busy, for DuPage and Cook counties. Will team player with excellent communica- full-service, well-equipped, small-an- also consider other areas in the state. tion skills, a great work ethic and a fun- imal, four hospital group practice lo- Available seven days per week. Please loving personality. Rehab certification cated one hour southwest of Chicago, contact Dr. Rosemarie A. Niznik is highly preferred. Applicants must be Illinois. We offer a large variety of at cell number: (630) 915-0156 or committed to providing outstanding progressive services ranging from pre- [email protected]. patient and client care in a progres- ventive care to advanced orthopedic sive environment. Our veterinarians and soft-tissue surgery. We promote In-State Opportunities receive compensation, family-friendly a constant learning environment and SEEKING VETERINARIANS benefits and CE above the industry av- encourage professional development. • Full-time associate needed for AAHA- erage. Contact Stephanie Ragsdale at This is an excellent opportunity for a member small-animal hospital in [email protected]. new graduate or experienced veteri- Peoria area. Experienced veterinarian narian who is client-oriented and has
28 www.isvma.org | Epitome a genuine dedication to practicing to 15 percent of our business is equine with terrifically dedicated support high-quality medicine and outstand- or small-ruminant-related. We also staff. Thirteen shifts per month; com- ing patient care. Our support staff is make house calls for our small animal pensation package based on experi- highly qualified and motivated. We clients’ convenience. We are looking ence. New graduates encouraged to offer a competitive compensation and for someone who is a good commu- apply. Contact A. Ragni, DVM, at benefit package. We provide additional nicator, has a strong work ethic, is [email protected]. compensation for rotating emergency- energetic and is dedicated to practic- call duties. Future partnership buy-in ing high-quality medicine. Ideally, the • Capitol Illini Veterinary Services or buyout potential available. For ad- candidate has three to five years of ex- Ltd., with 50 years of caring for pets ditional information about us, see our perience. Please call (847) 669-6635 in Springfield and Chatham, Illinois, website at www.vet4me.com. Please e- for more information. has a position for a new or recent mail résumé to [email protected], graduate beginning in June 2013. We fax to (815) 584-9688 or phone Deb • Looking for a veterinarian with a posi- are committed to mentoring our vet- Dunlap at (815) 584-2732. tive attitude, a strong work ethic and erinarians. Client communication, great communication skills for a high- education and customer service are our • Well-established small-animal clinic volume multi-doctor practice in the top priorities. Our motto is “Healthy in Illinois western suburbs is seeking south suburbs of Chicago. The practice Pets Make Happy People.” At Capitol an associate veterinarian. We are look- is well-equipped and paper-light with Illini, we emphasize patient wellness ing for a compassionate, personable a strong support staff. Interest in any and best medicine first. Our practices team player that loves working with of the following is desired: surgical, en- are AAHA-Certified, with ultrasound, people as well as pets. We offer a well- doscopic, chiropractic, acupuncture or endoscopy, dentistry including digi- equipped facility, competitive salary, rehabilitation. Please contact Dr. John tal dental, digital radiology, in-house great hours and an exceptional sup- Coyne at [email protected]. blood analyzers, Class IV laser therapy port staff and clientele. Send résumé to and orthopedic services. We have five [email protected]. • Banfield Pet Hospital of East Peoria full-time DVMs with a staff of 24, offers the opportunity to practice including four full-time CVTs. The • Small-animal emergency veterinarian quality medicine with the right tools, position available is full-time with no needed for our growing 24-hour hospi- knowledgeable teams and nationwide emergency call. Benefits include: five tal. We are interviewing for a full- and/ support. Apply online at www.banfield. days CE with $2,000 expenses, health or part-time associate with a strong com/careers or, for additional ques- insurance, malpractice- and license- desire to practice high-quality emer- tions, e-mail our medical directors at defense insurance, dues to four profes- gency medicine. Overnights/week- [email protected]. sional organizations and two weeks’ ends/holidays will be required. Animal vacation. Salary: negotiable, base with Emergency of McHenry County is a • Progressive, three-doctor, full-service percentage of gross (ProSal) or guar- progressive emergency and referral small-animal practice located in the anteed base. Visit our website, www. hospital located in the far northwest south suburbs of Chicago is searching capitolillinivet.com, for more informa- suburbs of Chicago. We continue to for a full-time associate veterinarian tion and a tour of our practice. Send expand with medicine, surgery and who is a caring, motivated profes- résumés to Clyde E. Dunphy, DVM, canine rehabilitation departments. We sional with good people skills to be [email protected], (217) 691-4950. believe in teamwork, communication part of our team-oriented staff. Hos- and exceptional patient care. If you pital has latest ISO anesthetic, digital • Full-time associate veterinarian wanted would like to learn more about joining X-ray unit, latest anesthesia monitor- in northwestern Illinois. Twenty per- our team, please send your résumé by ing, cryosurgery, digital in-house lab cent large-animal, 80 percent small- e-mail to Mike Hochman, DVM, at unit and a fully equipped dental suite. animal, two certified technicians, four [email protected]. We offer competitive salary, full ben- veterinarians, emergency duties shared efits, paid vacation, optional retire- equally. Contact Dr. Ryan Zinke at • Full-time associate wanted for an es- ment funds and family environment. the Morrison Veterinary Clinic, 14993 tablished veterinary practice located Please call (708) 758-2400, fax résumé Lyndon Road, Morrison, IL 61270, in a growing community in the far to (708) 758-2950 or e-mail résumé to (815) 772-4047. northwest suburbs of Chicago. We [email protected]. are a full-service mixed-animal prac- • We invite you to join our progressive, tice looking for a doctor who wants to • Full-time position in after-hours emer- busy small-animal practice in central build strong relationships with our cli- gency clinic in Elgin, Illinois. Well- Illinois. Teaming with dedicated as- ents and their pets. Approximately 10 equipped, steadily growing clinic sistants, you will perform surgery and
Epitome | www.isvma.org 29 use digital X-ray, ultrasound and state- off to have a life outside of veterinary Wendy at (773) 502-6000 or e-mail to of-the-art dental equipment in a new medicine. Digital radiography, digital [email protected]. building. Competitive salary, reasonable ultrasound units, in-house lab shock- hours and opportunity to grow in your wave unit and thermography camera are • Northern Illinois! One-veterinarian field of interest. For more information, included in the large clinic’s equipment. small-animal practice, attractive real call (309) 262-5225. Practice quality veterinary medicine with estate. Excellent cash to new buyer; a great mentoring staff. Please apply at priced to sell! Contact: Dr. Ken Ehlen, • Animal Emergency Clinic in Bloom- Dr. Weldy’s Assoc., Inc., Dr. Jerry Sellon, Simmons & Assoc. Midwest, (877) 322- ington is seeking a full-time DVM. 114 North Elkhart Street, Box 527, Wa- 6465; [email protected]. (Part-time position may be considered.) karusa, IN 46573, e-mail Eqvet1111@ Salary plus production bonuses. Com- aol.com, or call (573) 536-0496. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE prehensive benefits package. Three • Simon DR Digital Radiography System, shifts per week — nights, weekends PRACTICE PERSONNEL 13 MP CCD Sensor. New in December and holidays. We love our patients, • Auburn Veterinary Service, located on 2008. Upgraded for exotic and ortho- and our practice enjoys a high level of Richland Ranch in Auburn, Illinois, is pedic requirements. Universal 400mA community involvement. Bloomington/ seeking a certified veterinary technician table, DelMedical Controls, Standalone Normal offers big-city activities with a or an experienced veterinary assistant acquisition/server PC. Asking $28,000. hometown feel. To join our team, please to join our growing small-animal prac- (815) 282-3371. contact Dr. Patti Niehm via e-mail at tice. We pride ourselves in practicing [email protected] or fax résumé high-quality medicine for a wonderful SERVICES to (309) 828-5836, tel: (309) 828-5836. clientele. Interested parties should e-mail • AVMA Group Health And Life Insur- [email protected] or mail résumés ance Trust. Fred Rothschild, CLU, RHU, Out-of-State Opportunities to PO Box 92, Pawnee, IL 62558. and David Rothschild have advised more SEEKING VETERINARIANS than 400 veterinarians. For AVMA • Small-animal emergency veterinar- PRACTICES FOR SALE Group Health and Life information, un- ian — northern Indiana — our mixed • SA Px For Sale: southern Illinois, pro- derwritten by New York Life Insurance animal clinic is adding an eighth doc- gressive established 33 years in Carbon- Company, New York, New York contact tor to our growing staff. Fully equipped dale with great clientele and visibility; us at (800) 673-5040 or Rothschild-Ins@ clinic with 16 lay personnel. A 3.5-day satellite clinic, gross more than $1 mil- mcleodusa.net for analysis. work week, 40 percent of gross paid for lion with ongoing growth. Will help small-animal emergencies, 32 percent with financing. Great opportunity. Call • Veterinary hospital design and con- of gross for small-animal appointments (618) 446-3263 or (618) 203-9278. struction to start? We can help answer with $50,000-per-year minimum base these questions with: facility planning, salary. Some equine/LA available only • Naperville, Illinois, small-animal prac- including complete cost budgets; site if desired. Corporate matching SIRA re- tice/building available for purchase. evaluation to determine feasibility and tirement, up to one-month-per-year paid Attractive, modern facility has three cost; and design and construction. Reno- vacation, health insurance allowance, li- exam rooms plus one surgical suite, vations, additions, tenant build-outs and ability insurance, vehicle allowance and ample parking and beautiful grounds. new construction. For a complementary $2,000-per-year continuing education Annual collections $920,000-plus. consultation, contact: JF McCarthy, fund. Great earning potential with time For more information, please contact MBA, CFM, (708) 547-5096.
“Be the Change,” continued from page 14
If you do not have time to participate and vol- offer free CE events to their full members. Oth- credential. While I understand this would in- unteer your time to your state or national or- ers offer discounts to state-sponsored CE events. volve many state practice acts, take more years ganizations, remember that there is strength in than I may have left in my career and have to numbers! Life is constantly changing, and, if you I joined my state associations and NAVTA have a great many people involved in helping do not have time to help now, you may find you when I was a student and have continued those make this change, I am still optimistic that it have the time two years from now. By being a memberships during the past 10 years. While I can happen one day! But I had to get involved member, you still receive benefits such as a news- was in school, my time was very limited to help. to help this change happen. letter, e-mail updates of what is going on in legis- But I made a point to get involved as soon as I lation that could affect what you do in your job, had time, and it has been very satisfying and Be a part of the change. Get involved. Join networking opportunities and even continuing has helped me to move forward in my career. your state and national organizations, and be- education opportunities. Some state associations My dream has always been to have a national come a part of the change you wish to see!
30 www.isvma.org | Epitome Epitome | www.isvma.org 31 Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association 1121 Chatham Road Springfield, IL 62704
AVMA GHLIT to Support Members Impacted by Changes to Medical Insurance in 2014
New York Life Insurance Company (NYL), the un- derwriter of the American Veterinary Medical Associa- tion (AVMA) Group Health and Life Insurance Trust (GHLIT), has notified the GHLIT Trustees of its intent to discontinue offering medi- cal insurance to bona fide as- sociation plans after 2013.
The decision by NYL impacts only the ticipants with the transition to other medi- “The Trust understands the significance of GHLIT medical insurance policy. Current cal insurance coverage effective January 1, this change and the confusion it may cause. medical insurance will continue for GHLIT 2014. The GHLIT and NYL will continue We want to assure all our members that members throughout 2013, provided pre- to offer life, disability income and other we remain dedicated to their protection miums are paid in a timely manner. Any insurance products as a member benefit to and are working diligently to ensure that life, disability income or other nonmedical AVMA members. they continue to have access to the cov- coverage will be unaffected by this change. erage they are accustomed to through the “For the past 56 years, the Trust has pro- GHLIT,” Dr. Brandt said. “Members can NYL indicated that the evolving market tected its members through numerous expect to receive regular communications conditions and regulatory environment industry changes with an array of quality from us over the coming months, including created by the Patient Protection and Af- coverage. This will be no different,” said progress updates and information to assist fordable Care Act will ultimately prevent James H. Brandt, DVM, GHLIT chair. them through this transition.” it from offering competitive medical in- “While we are saddened at the prospect surance for association plans such as the of ending medical insurance as a benefit For more information, members are GHLIT’s. To that end, the GHLIT is work- to our members, our top priority is ensur- encouraged to contact the GHLIT at ing with its business partners to establish a ing that they do not experience any gaps (800) 621-6360 or visit the website at program to help assist its medical-plan par- in coverage. www.avmaghlit.org.