Wisconsin Rabies Awareness Challenge

2-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim

Rabies is a global, zoonotic disease that is preventable in our pets but is still seen occasionally in Wisconsin. How do you handle a patient that bit a human? Does the answer change if they are overdue? What about hybrid dogs? Can you excuse a dog from future rabies boosters? This session will discuss rabies laws specific to Wisconsin with a focus on answers to common questions and misconceptions.

Ed Loebach DVM, DABVP (Canine/Feline), is a graduate of Iowa State University CVM with seven years of small animal practice experience, four years of medical consulting with Banfield the Pet Hospital, and 15 years in the industry. Dr. Loebach has been certified as a canine/feline medicine specialist with the ABVP since 2007. Dr. Loebach is currently a Senior Professional Service Veterinarian for Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, supporting canine/feline products.

Yvonne Bellay, DVM, MS, manages animal welfare programs for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, where she is also an epidemiologist. She oversees the department’s training and certification of local humane officers and its dog seller and rabies control programs. In addition, deals with zoonotic disease and public health issues, serving as the department’s liaison with state and local public health departments. Dr. Bellay also acts as a resource to local authorities in investigating and resolving local animal welfare complaints.

Canine Regional Anesthesia and Dental Extractions—Overcoming Challenges

2-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits total

The need for dental extractions is common in veterinary medical practice. Complications with extractions frequently originate from inadequate surgical exposure or limitations in surgical technique. This lecture/lab combination will focus on identifying extraction complications before they occur and determine how to prevent or navigate challenges using a variety of approaches with flap creation and instrument handling. Updates on regional anesthetic techniques will be presented and practiced in the laboratory as well.

This lecture is included in the admission price and required for those attending the accompanying lab, which will have a capacity limit.

Christopher Snyder, DVM, DAVDC, has been clinical faculty since completing his residency at UW-Madison, SVM. Their service has extensive experience teaching dental extraction and local block labs. Dr. Snyder lectured and taught dental extraction laboratories locally, nationally, and internationally. He teaches in a very practical, “use it on Monday” type of approach.

Feline Urethral Obstruction–Hot Off the Presses!

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

Feline urethral obstruction (FUO) is not an uncommon problem. Many practitioners have a standardized protocol for treatment. However, they may not realize there is new information that may improve the therapeutic experience for the patient. This course will use a complicated case to discuss how to apply the information presented.

Dr. Elke Rudloff, DVM, DACVECC, cVMA, is a 1991 graduate of Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine. She worked as an emergency and critical care specialist, supervising/mentoring over 30 ACVECC Diplomates since 1995, and is currently a Hospice Veterinarian with the BluePearl Pet Hospice. She is certified in veterinary medical acupuncture and focuses on pain management, senior care, and hospice/palliative care for small animals.

Splint Bandaging for the Orthopedic Patient

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 16
Audience: DVM, CVT

A presentation discussing the fundamental of splint bandages and exploring the different types of splints used in small animals with clinical scenarios used to further explore the topic. Followed by a guided practical lab where you will place a custom splinted bandage on a foam dog leg.

Jess McCarthy, BVSc, ECVS, works as an assistant professor in orthopedic surgery at the University of Wisconsin. She became a diplomat of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2020 after completing her residency training at the University of Edinburgh. Jess attended Bristol University for her veterinary degree and spent two years in general practice in England after graduating. She has a particular interest in elbow disease, both developmental and traumatic. Jess is passionate about ensuring everyone in the veterinary profession can work in a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.

Amber Bianco, CVT, started at a private practice up in Houghton, Michigan, and is now a small animal surgery treatment technician at the University of Wisconsin Veterinary Care. She currently performs bandage changes on orthopedic and soft tissue patients in the hospital and assists in the bandage laboratory for the final year students.

Velcro Issues: Strategies on Diagnosing and Treating Indolent Ulcers in Dogs

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 12
Audience: DVM

Sponsored by WVRC

Review of clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment tips for indolent corneal ulceration to improve clinical healing success. The wet lab will offer the practice of reviewed techniques on cadaveric tissue, including diamond burr debridement, grid keratotomy, and bandage contact lens placement.

Kathryn Smith, DVM, PhD, DACVO, obtained her veterinary degree from the University of Illinois. She then spent two years in equine practice before starting a combined ophthalmology residency and PhD program at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Smith became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists in 2017. She served as faculty at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine before joining Wisconsin Veterinary Referral Center in the summer of 2021.

Wisconsin Rabies Awareness Challenge

2-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim

This is a continuation of Part One.

Canine Regional Anesthesia and Dental Extractions—Overcoming Challenges

2-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

This is a continuation of Part One.

This lecture is included in the admission price and required for those attending the accompanying lab, which will have a capacity limit.

Hemoabdomen, GI Foreign Body Obstruction, GDV- Is Emergency Surgery Really Needed?

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

The current staffing shortage has made us evaluate the need for timely surgery for emergency cases. There are publications that suggest we may be able to delay surgery on common emergency presentations. Let us review the details of this evidence and determine if a paradigm shift is reasonable.

Dr. Elke Rudloff, DVM, DACVECC, cVMA, is a 1991 graduate of Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine. She worked as an emergency and critical care specialist, supervising/mentoring over 30 ACVECC Diplomates since 1995, and is currently a Hospice Veterinarian with the BluePearl Pet Hospice. She is certified in veterinary medical acupuncture and focuses on pain management, senior care, and hospice/palliative care for small animals.

Splint Bandaging for the Orthopedic Patient

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 16
Audience: DVM, CVT

This is a continuation of the 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. lab for attendees who purchased the a la carte option.

Velcro Issues: Strategies on Diagnosing and Treating Indolent Ulcers in Dogs

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 12
Audience: DVM

Sponsored by WVRC

This is a continuation of the 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. lab for attendees who purchased the a la carte option.

SVM Curriculum Focus Group — Small Animal

1-hour focus group • no CE credits • 10 max
Audience: DVM

UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine will be hosting a one-hour focus group session on the ongoing efforts to revise the DVM curriculum. After a brief overview, participants will discuss a series of focused questions about general practice activities, including common presentations, diagnoses, and procedures seen or performed in their practice. SVM personnel will also be available throughout the event to answer questions and hear perspectives about the DVM program.

Peggy Schmidt, DVM, MS, DACVPM (Associate Dean for Professional Programs), was a rural mixed animal practitioner for five years before she began her academic career. She received her DVM from the University of Minnesota and MS from Iowa State University. Dr. Schmidt has held instructor, faculty, and administrator roles across four different veterinary programs. She currently oversees the DVM curriculum at UW SVM. Dr. Schmidt has taught a variety of topics, including clinical skills, food animal medicine, food safety, and epidemiology.

Margene Anderson, MS, EdD (Educational Advancement and Faculty Development Specialist), previously worked campus-wide as Sr. Teaching and Learning Consultant at Wisconsin’s Center for Teaching, Learning & Mentoring, focusing primarily on curricular transformation in Pre/Health Professions Education and STEM. Prior to transitioning to Higher Education, Margene spent 15 years as a K-12 educator. Margene holds a BS in Secondary English, an MS in Curriculum and Instruction, and EdSpec in Education Administration, as well as an EdD in Higher Education and Leadership Studies: Curriculum and Instruction.

Jim Narlock, BS, MaED (Curriculum Manager), has a BS in psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, a MaED from the University of Phoenix, and is nearing completion of an EdD from Grand Canyon University. As curriculum manager, Jim provides primary support for curriculum revision efforts at UW-Madison. He organizes and maintains the curriculum map and other documentation for the revised curriculum. Jim also participates in the delivery of faculty development in teaching and learning. He has an extensive background in teaching, learning, and curriculum and professional development in K-12 and higher education.

Balance and Control: How to Upgrade Your Anesthesia Game

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits total

Do you sometimes dread anesthesia? Would you like to become more comfortable with anesthetic equipment? Do you have questions about the nuances of particular drugs? Would you like to know how others are creatively using common medicants? Is local anesthesia something you wish to do more of?

If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions and would like to take your anesthetic game up a notch, this mini-course is for you. The relaxed, open-discussion lecture will focus on common questions, misconceptions, and ways to think outside of the box in regard to anesthesia. The lab portion will look at pain and encourage attendees to try out locoregional anesthetic techniques. Be prepared to improve patient outcomes and increase anesthetic success.

This lecture is included in the admission price and required for those attending the accompanying lab, which will have a capacity limit.

Kristen Cooley, BA, CVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), VCC, is a veterinary technician specialist in anesthesia and analgesia. She is a frequently sought-after speaker and award-winning instructor. She is also a published author and illustrator of anesthesia and pain management-related textbooks and articles.

Early Cancer Detection and What Clients Expect From You

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Sponsored by VCA

During this 90-minute section, Dr. Shiu will instruct the following two presentations:

Early Cancer Detection–All It’s Chalked Up to Be?
Early cancer detection is a concept most clients are familiar with, and primary care veterinarians are on the front line of cancer detection. We will address the various approaches to cancer screening that are available and discuss what should be considered the standard of care for a wellness exam in a high-risk population. The benefits and drawbacks of various screening tools will be considered, as well as concepts/controversies associated with cancer screening in humans.

What Clients Expect From You and the Risks of Letting Them Down
In this talk, we will consider findings from a large consumer research study evaluating client perceptions surrounding cancer care for pets in the US. This research, published in JAVMA has practical implications that will help primary care veterinarians and specialists better serve their clients/patients, as well as improve their own reputations and reviews.

Kai Shiu, BVMS, MRCVS, DACVIM (Oncology), is a veterinary oncologist practicing at VCA in Madison/Middleton, Wisconsin, since 2010. He serves on the board of directors for a local foundation called Czar’s Promise which funds UW American Family Children’s Hospital and UW School of Veterinary Medicine. He also serves on the Oncology Advisory Board for Mars Veterinary Health / VCA and the Morris Animal Health Feline Scientific Advisory Board. He lives in Madison with his wife, two young children, and cat, “Joey Tribbiani”.

Localizing Lesions in the Brain: A Case-based Approach

1.5-hour Small Group Discussion
1.8 scientific credits • max 30

Neurologic cases will be presented. Participants will work in small groups to localize the lesions to a particular part of the brain based on the history and neurologic exam findings. They will also come up with a list of differential diagnoses. The most common differential diagnoses will be discussed.

Helena Rylander, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), received her DVM from the University of Uppsala, Sweden 1990, and worked in several private practices from 1990-2000. She was a resident in neurology/neurosurgery at UC Davis from 2000-2003. She became a Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Neurology) in 2003. Since 2003 she has been clinical faculty at the School of Veterinary Medicine, UW Madison.

Starr Cameron, BVetMed, MS, DACVIM (Neurology), received her veterinary degree from the Royal Veterinary College in London, England. She then completed a one-year rotating internship at Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center. In 2013, she finished her residency in neurology and neurosurgery at Cornell University and became a board-certified veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon. After residency, Dr. Cameron worked in private practice at SAGE Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Centers in Redwood City, California. During this time, she also worked as a post-doc in the comparative neuroscience lab at Stanford University, studying epilepsy in sea lions. In 2017, Dr. Cameron joined the University of Wisconsin – Madison School of Veterinary Medicine.

When GP Turns ER: How to Manage Unexpected Emergencies

1.5-hour Lab • 1.8 scientific credits • max 18
Audience: CVT, DVM

This lab focuses on what to do when your sick appointment turns into an emergency situation. Being prepared to handle it in practice or properly prepare your patient for transfer to an emergency clinic can greatly impact their prognosis in most cases. This lab will focus on the technician’s role in emergencies such GDVs, heat stroke, being hit by cars, urinary obstructions, and hypovolemic shock. There will be an interactive lecture portion as well as a hands-on lab to practice skills such as nasogastric tube placement, in-dwelling urinary catheter placement, and IV access.

Justine Finerty, CVT, grew up in Milwaukee and first found her love of animals as a kennel assistant at a primary care clinic ten years ago. After three years in general practice, Justine became a certified veterinary technician and made the jump to ECC at BluePearl in Milwaukee (formerly known as Lakeshore Veterinary Specialists). Justine started her ECC VTS journey but shortly stopped when she was accepted into veterinary medical school at the University of Wisconsin Madison, where she will be graduating in 2026. Justine’s passion lies with ECC, which is the kind of practice she hopes to follow as a doctor. Justine has two dogs, a Belgian Malinois named Bex and a German Shepherd named Blair, as well as a snake named Dog. In her free time, Justine enjoys hiking, cooking, and fishing.

Orthopedic Radiographs: Help, I’ve Fallen, and I Can’t Get Up! (X-Rays for General Practice)

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

A comprehensive guide for general practice technicians and assistants. So often, we are unsure in GP if the x-ray is good enough or meets diagnostic criteria. You can get the radiograph right the first time! This is a review of appropriate imaging, labeling, measuring, positioning, PPE, tools, and drug recommendations for sedation, with real-life examples and cases. We will be evaluating images and have a discussion on how to fix the x-ray after the presentation review on proper technique.

Celia Ellsworth, CVT, received certification as a licensed veterinary technician in 2019. She spent three years in General Practice prior to her certification as an assistant and the following two years, during the high point of the pandemic, in general practice as a technician. For the past three years, Celia has worked as a specialty surgery swing technician – OR circulating, consulting and rechecking appointments, surgeon assistant, instrument sterility specialist, scrub technician, and anesthesia monitoring. She is a ridiculously active CE attendee and NAVTA member and will be applying for surgery VTS certification within the coming year.

Pulmonary Hypertension: Update and Review

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is an elusive clinical phenomenon that affects many dogs in clinical practice. These patients present with very non-specific clinical signs that could mask themselves as heart or pulmonary disease. The problem with PH is that many clinicians were never taught about it in veterinary school. If this clinical “disease” is not recognized as an entity, then these patients often die quickly without appropriate diagnostics and treatment. Prior to effective treatment being available, the median survival for PH cases was 3 days, and now with the recognition of PH as a clinical phenomenon and treatment, the survival can exceed years. This CE will discuss the pathology of PH, the clinical patient, the diagnostics, and the treatment. Cases of dogs with PH will also be presented.

Heidi Kellihan, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology), earned her DVM in 2002 from the University of Illinois in Urbana, IL. Her internship in 2003 was at Dr. Steve Ettinger’s California Animal Hospital in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Kellihan completed a cardiology Residency from 2003-2006 at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI. Currently, Dr. Kellihan is a Clinical Professor as well as the Section Head of Cardiology. 

Localizing Lesions in the Spinal Cord:
A Case-based Approach

1.5-hour Small Group Discussion
1.8 scientific credits • max 30

Neurologic cases will be presented. Participants will work in small groups to localize the lesion to a particular region of the spinal cord and prioritize possible differential diagnoses. The most common differential diagnoses will be discussed.

Helena Rylander, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), received her DVM from the University of Uppsala, Sweden 1990, and worked in several private practices from 1990-2000. She was a resident in neurology/neurosurgery at UC Davis from 2000-2003. She became a Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Neurology) in 2003. Since 2003 she has been clinical faculty at the School of Veterinary Medicine, UW Madison.

Starr Cameron, BVetMed, MS, DACVIM (Neurology), received her veterinary degree from the Royal Veterinary College in London, England. She then completed a one-year rotating internship at Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center. In 2013, she finished her residency in neurology and neurosurgery at Cornell University and became a board-certified veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon. After residency, Dr. Cameron worked in private practice at SAGE Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Centers in Redwood City, California. During this time, she also worked as a post-doc in the comparative neuroscience lab at Stanford University, studying epilepsy in sea lions. In 2017, Dr. Cameron joined the University of Wisconsin – Madison School of Veterinary Medicine.

Balance and Control: How to Upgrade Your Anesthesia Game

1.5-hour Lab • 1.8 scientific credits • max 18
Audience: CVT, DVM

Materials and equipment sponsored by Patterson Veterinary Supply

This is the accompanying lab for Kristen Cooley’s 1 p.m. lecture. Attendees of this lab are required to attend the accompanying lecture.

This lab is very similar to the Local Anesthetic Techniques on Saturday. It is recommended that attendees register for only one of these labs.

Canine Regional Anesthesia and Dental Extractions—Overcoming Challenges

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 12
Audience: DVM

This is the accompanying lab for Dr. Christopher Snyder’s 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. lectures (Part One and Part Two) on Friday. Attendees of this lab are required to attend both morning lectures. The Saturday morning dentistry lab is a duplication of this lab. Attendees are allowed to register for only one dentistry lab.

Chaotic to Peace of Mind: Building a Foundation for Canine Behavior Treatment Plans

2-hour Lecture • 2.4 scientific credits

This course will guide general practitioners through starting a behavior treatment plan for their anxious, fearful, or aggressive canine patient. This will include gathering information to make an appropriate diagnosis as well as management techniques and the appropriate tools to keep the problem from getting worse. It will also address behavior modification, including simple relationship-building exercises and when to involve a trusted trainer, as well as pharmacological intervention, including common medication, appropriate usage, and doses.

Brooke Lewis, DVM, owns Lewis Veterinary Behavior Solutions, a Madison-area practice devoted to small animal behavior concerns. She works exclusively with dogs and cats that are dealing with fears, anxiety, and aggression. She has over 30 years of experience in animal behavior.

Jolene Short, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CSAT, FFCP (Trainer), is a certified dog behavior consultant and trainer who has spent over a decade working with dogs on a variety of behavior concerns. She holds certifications with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, Fear Free Certified Professionals, and separation anxiety expert Malena DeMartini’s separation anxiety program.

Emily Blythe, ACCBC, ACDBC, CSAT, FFCP (Trainer), BSc, is the owner and founder of Homeward Bound Animal Behavior & Training. She specializes in canine, feline, and avian behavior and has been in the animal behavior field for over 15 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University as well as multiple certifications from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, Fear Free, and Malena DeMatini’s separation anxiety program. 

Pododermatitis in Dogs: Pathogenesis and Modern Techniques for Diagnosis and Treatment

2-hour Lecture • 2.4 scientific credits

Skin diseases of the canine paws are a common problem in general practice. Given the complexity of the management and treatment of the underlying dermatologic disease, specialized veterinary diagnostic tools and monitoring are often necessary. Early simplified diagnosis and monitoring would improve the management and treatment of the diseased paw. Specifically, computer vision tools can facilitate the process of detection and monitoring of disease processes and also assist with training clinicians to detect such diseases. Learn about an object detection model that has good prospects for being applied in the field of veterinary dermatology. Some pododermatitis cases require surgical treatment. The surgical techniques include surgical cyst removal, partial or total fusion podoplasty, and surgery using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. In this CE, attendees will review what is causing pododermatitis in dogs, the development and use of a novel computer vision model for diagnosis, and the use of CO2 laser surgery in interdigital pododermatitis.

Neoklis Apostolopoulos, DVM, DECVD, EBVS®, obtained his degree in veterinary medicine at the University of Thessaly (Greece). From 2012 to 2021, he moved to Germany, where he completed a rotational internship, a residency (ECVD), and postgraduate research with a focus on canine cutaneous microbiota. Currently, he is an assistant clinical professor of veterinary dermatology at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Dr. Apostolopoulos is a member of the Dermatology/Allergy Laboratory, and his research is focused on the canine skin microbiome in health and disease, as well as the utilization of artificial intelligence in veterinary dermatology (diagnosis of interdigital cysts). His clinical interests are all aspects of dermatology, allergology, and otology. Dr. Apostolopoulos has also experience in CO2 Laser Surgery (removal of skin masses, surgical treatment of interdigital cysts and nodules, ablation of in situ squamous cell carcinoma) and fluorescence photobiomodulation treatment of skin diseases.

Vital Emergency Procedures for Canine and Feline Practitioners

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 18
Audience: DVM, CVT

Sponsored by MILA

During this lab, attendees will gain comfort with common ER procedures, many of which can be life-saving. Procedures to be instructed include thoracocentesis, thoracostomy tube placement, nasal catheterization for oxygen administration, intraosseous catheter placement, tie-over bandage placement, and pericardiocentesis.

Jon Bach, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), DACVECC, graduated from the University of Minnesota Veterinary School in 2000 and then worked for a year in private practice in Des Moines, IA, prior to pursuing additional training. Following an internship in Denver, CO, he completed an Internal Medicine residency followed by an ECC Fellowship at Tufts in MA. Since joining the UW SVM faculty in 2006, Dr. Bach has been instrumental in creating an ER service, expanding critical care support, and numerous teaching and student learning experiences in the fields of emergency and critical care medicine.

Canine Regional Anesthesia and Dental Extractions—Overcoming Challenges

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 12
Audience: DVM

This is the accompanying lab for Dr. Christopher Snyder’s 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. lectures (Part One and Part Two) on Friday. Attendees of this lab are required to attend both lectures on Friday. The Friday dentistry lab is a duplication of this lab. Attendees are allowed to register for only one dentistry lab.

SVM Curriculum Focus Group — Small Animal

1-hour focus group • no CE credits • 10 max
Audience: DVM

UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine will be hosting a one-hour focus group session on the ongoing efforts to revise the DVM curriculum. After a brief overview, participants will discuss a series of focused questions about general practice activities, including common presentations, diagnoses, and procedures seen or performed in their practice. SVM personnel will also be available throughout the event to answer questions and hear perspectives about the DVM program.

Peggy Schmidt, DVM, MS, DACVPM (Associate Dean for Professional Programs), was a rural mixed animal practitioner for five years before she began her academic career. She received her DVM from the University of Minnesota and MS from Iowa State University. Dr. Schmidt has held instructor, faculty, and administrator roles across four different veterinary programs. She currently oversees the DVM curriculum at UW SVM. Dr. Schmidt has taught a variety of topics, including clinical skills, food animal medicine, food safety, and epidemiology.

Margene Anderson, MS, EdD (Educational Advancement and Faculty Development Specialist), previously worked campus-wide as Sr. Teaching and Learning Consultant at Wisconsin’s Center for Teaching, Learning & Mentoring, focusing primarily on curricular transformation in Pre/Health Professions Education and STEM. Prior to transitioning to Higher Education, Margene spent 15 years as a K-12 educator. Margene holds a BS in Secondary English, an MS in Curriculum and Instruction, and EdSpec in Education Administration, as well as an EdD in Higher Education and Leadership Studies: Curriculum and Instruction.

Jim Narlock, BS, MaED (Curriculum Manager), has a BS in psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, a MaED from the University of Phoenix, and is nearing completion of an EdD from Grand Canyon University. As curriculum manager, Jim provides primary support for curriculum revision efforts at UW-Madison. He organizes and maintains the curriculum map and other documentation for the revised curriculum. Jim also participates in the delivery of faculty development in teaching and learning. He has an extensive background in teaching, learning, and curriculum and professional development in K-12 and higher education.

Trials, Pharmacology, Kinetics, and Side Effects of Recently–Approved Drugs

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Take a deep dive into newly approved drugs, like Clevor, Canalevia-CA1, Solensia, Panoquell CA1, and Bexacat. Review the quality of clinical trials and trial outcomes. Also, review the pharmacology, kinetics, side effects, contraindications, and place in therapy to determine if these medications are appropriate and beneficial for your patients.

Shelby Williams, PharmD, DICVP, FSVHP, completed her PharmD at Washington State University College of Pharmacy. During pharmacy school, she worked as a veterinary assistant and immediately knew she wanted to pursue a career that combined her love for animals with pharmacy. In 2018, she completed a Clinical Veterinary Pharmacy Residency at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Shelby currently works as a Pharmacy Manager at the University of Wisconsin Veterinary Teaching Hospital and holds an adjunct faculty position at Washington State University College of Pharmacy, where she teaches a Veterinary Pharmacy Elective. Shelby has two standard poodles and loves spending time outside with them.

Nourishing the Neurologic System

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

Sponsored by Standard Process

Feeding the neurologic system depends on more than just nutrition. The more holistically we support the system, the better the patient responds to treatments. There are multiple aspects to neurologic health. Feeding the neurologic system is key and includes a good diet as well as supplements. Attendees will discuss the specific benefits of herbs, nutrients, and antioxidants, as well as their mechanism of action. Neurologic health will also benefit from positive input into the neurologic system. Attendees will discuss tail traction, its benefit, and how to do it, as well as examples of proprioceptive exercises, mental stimulation, and enrichment. Learn the importance of getting the owners involved with stretches and massage as “homework assignments,” which many love, especially when seeing the benefit in their pets.

Lisa Kluslow, DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVSMT, TCHVM, graduated from UW-Madison with a B.S. in both Zoology and Conservation Biology and a Certificate in Environmental Studies. She spent five years working in prairie and wetland restoration but then decided to go back to Veterinary School and graduated from the UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. She practices integrative medicine with certifications in acupuncture, spinal manipulation, canine rehabilitation therapy, Chinese herbal therapy, and pending TCM food therapy. She currently practices in the Milwaukee area.

Putting the Fun in Fundus–Interpretation of Retinal Findings in Small Animals

1.5-hour Small Group Discussion
1.8 scientific credits • max 30

This session will build an understanding of fundus examination skills applicable to the real world, diagnosis, and interpretation of common fundus examination findings in a case-based format.

Freya Mowat, BVSc. PhD DECVO DAVCO, is a veterinary ophthalmologist clinician-scientist who has completed veterinary training at the University of Bristol, a Ph.D at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, and an ophthalmology residency and post-doc at Michigan State University. She is board certified with both the American and European Colleges of Veterinary Ophthalmology. Her research interest is in retinal and neurologic aging and retinal disorders.

The Top 10 Ways to Improve Fertility and Neonatal Outcomes

1.5-hour Lab • 1.8 scientific credits • max 20
Audience: DVM, CVT

This lab focuses squarely on the relationship that must exist between the veterinarian and breeder clients. Learn the veterinarian’s responsibilities for interpreting progesterone testing for optimal timing of the breeding and getting her “unpregnant.” Explore semen collection and analysis, artificial insemination, the best timing and best practices for C-sections, and managing dystocia and high-risk pregnancies. Attendees will also study APGAR scoring for pups, neonatal resuscitation, the use of fresh frozen plasma on neonates, and the best way to tube feed pups.

Marthina Greer, DVM, JD, practices with an emphasis on canine reproduction and neonatal care. She has 40 years of experience working with breeder and rescue clients, providing fertility, infertility, c-section, pregnancy management, and care for young pups and kittens at risk.

Pain, Pain Go Away … Small Animal Local Anesthetic Techniques Wet Lab

1.5-hour Lab • 1.8 scientific credits • max 18
Audience: DVM, CVT

Materials and equipment sponsored by Patterson Veterinary Supply

As the opioid crisis continues, local anesthetic techniques are becoming an essential and integral part of multimodal anesthesia and analgesia in the companion animal veterinary practice. We will introduce and discuss all aspects of locoregional procedures, including classic and novel drugs, equipment, and the exact techniques necessary to perform successful blocks, followed by a hands-on cadaveric wet lab to practice conventional as well as novel locoregional techniques. These include epidurals, dental, orthopedic, auricular, ophthalmic, soft tissue blocks, and ultrasound-guided techniques.

This lab is very similar to the Increasing Anesthetic Success on Friday. It is recommended that attendees register for only one of these labs.

Becky Johnson, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVAA, obtained her DVM degree from the Ohio State University in 1993, completed a residency and MS degree at the University of Wisconsin, and became board-certified in Veterinary Anesthesiology and Pain Management in 1997. In 2002, she completed a PhD in Respiratory Neurophysiology. She currently is the Research Anesthesiologist and a Clinical Professor of Anesthesia and Pain Management at the University of Wisconsin’s School of Veterinary Medicine. Her interests include: 1) advances in anesthetic and analgesic techniques of laboratory animal species and 2) the effects of opioid and non-opioid analgesics on the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems of companion animals.

Carrie Schroeder, DVM, DACVAA, is a veterinary anesthesiologist from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. She completed a residency in veterinary anesthesia at the University of Wisconsin in 2011 and never left the beautiful city of Madison. Her clinical and research special interests include regional anesthesia and anesthesia of non-domestic species. In addition, she served as co-editor of the second edition of Canine and Feline Anesthesia and Co-Existing Disease and is currently a co-editor of the new edition of Lumb and Jones’ Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia.

Do You Speak Cow?

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

What can we learn from observing cattle behavior in the situations in which we find them? Did you know that Chinese cows speak the same language as American cows? Come and learn some from a seasoned professional who did not always do things the easy way.

David L. Brown, DVM, has a variety of experience on dairy and beef farms during private practice in Wisconsin, as well as teaching experience at Virginia Tech for two years and internationally as a consultant for GENEX on a variety of farms in China and Russia. He visited China more than a dozen times and Russia three. One farm in China was milking 19,000 cows on a single site, an intimidating scenario for a practitioner who had only worked with smaller farms in Wisconsin and Virginia. He discovered that cows and their behavior are universal, and lessons learned in working with small herds can be applied on all levels.

Managing for Margin: Insights From Monthly Income Over Feed Cost Tracking

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

Sponsored by ProAGtive Dairy Nutrition

In Managing for Margin, attendees will discuss data and lessons learned on how monthly tracking of IOFC has helped clients identify opportunities and successes in relation to forage quality/quantity, transition cows, genetics, and overall management of dairies.

Jake Guenzler is a nutrition and management consultant with ProAGtive Dairy Nutrition. He received his B.S. in Animal Science from UW-Platteville in 2010. After serving as herdsman, he transitioned to consulting, joining ProAGtive in 2011. His work helping producers maximize production, profit, and performance starts with a foundational focus on forages and transition cow success and using data to guide feeding and management decisions.

Managing Septic Arthritis and Umbilical Infection in Calves

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 10
Audience: DVM

Septic arthritis, a common sequelae to umbilical remnant infection in calves, can be a frustrating disease to both work up and manage. This wet lab will consist of practicing techniques for the diagnosis of both conditions, as well as their surgical management options.

Paul Merkatoris, DVM, DACVS – LA, is a board-certified large animal surgeon who graduated from UW-Madison SVM, completed a large animal medicine and surgery internship, then a residency at Iowa State University in large animal surgery. Dr. Merkatoris was faculty at ISU for one year and has been large animal surgery faculty at UW SVM since 2021.

Providing Resources & Training for On-Farm Employees

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

Sponsored by Alltech

Retaining employees is critical to the long-term health and success of your client’s dairy operation. Therefore, failing to create the right environment to retain employees will affect the bottom line of the business. One of the proactive approaches we must take to increase retention levels is to seriously investigate how employee training is conducted in the dairy industry, especially when English is a second language. Employee education is proven to boost engagement, motivation, and overall productivity. Many on-farm workers look to the veterinarian for resources to best manage the health and well-being of the herd. Still, the key question that we need to ask ourselves is, “Are we doing a good enough job providing resources to on-farm employees?” Find out how you fit in.

Jorge Delgado leads the Alltech Training, Talent Development, and Retention (T2R) Program as part of the Alltech On-Farm Support Program. He previously served as a dairy specialist and utilizes his expertise to help dairy producers with employee management practices, herd health, milk quality, calf management, protocol customization, and animal welfare. Originally from Ecuador, Delgado comes from a family of dairy farmers. He received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture and dairy science from EARTH University in Costa Rica. Afterward, he returned to Ecuador, where he worked in the dairy industry to represent a genetic company through consulting, sales, and training. In 2002, Delgado moved to the U.S., where he worked for 10 years in multiple dairies as a herd manager. He has also worked with Elanco’s Dairy Training Program, focusing on empowering dairy workers. He lives with his family in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Bye, Bye, Xylazine… Hello ???: Alternatives to Xylazine Sedation in Large Animals

1-hour Lecture • 1.2 scientific credits

As changes occur in the handling and availability of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, xylazine, practitioners are facing challenges regarding sedative agents that are clinically useful in their large animal patients. This CE event will begin with a discussion describing the advantages and disadvantages of the alpha-2 agonist class of drugs and how specific drugs within this class can be used in large animals, including reversal agents. Alternative pharmacologic options to this commonly used class of drugs will also be presented when applicable. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the physiologic effects associated with alpha-2 agonists and how to choose alternative agents if necessary.

Becky Johnson, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVAA, obtained her DVM degree from the Ohio State University in 1993, completed a residency and MS degree at the University of Wisconsin, and became board-certified in Veterinary Anesthesiology and Pain Management in 1997. In 2002, she completed a PhD in Respiratory Neurophysiology. She is currently the Research Anesthesiologist and a Clinical Professor of Anesthesia and Pain Management at the University of Wisconsin’s School of Veterinary Medicine. Her interests include: 1) advances in anesthetic and analgesic techniques of laboratory animal species and 2) the effects of opioid and non-opioid analgesics on the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems of companion animals.

Managing Septic Arthritis and Umbilical Infection in Calves

2-hour Lab • 2.4 scientific credits • max 10
Audience: DVM

This is a continuation of the 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. lab for attendees who purchased the a la carte option.

How to Multiply Success in the Commercial Dairy System Using Embryo Transfer

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Sponsored by Trans Ova Genetics

Historically, embryo transfer programs originated for the purpose of perpetuating elite show cattle and the creation of leading AI sires. Today’s technology and improved efficiency of IVF programs have enabled embryo transfer to be widely utilized within the breeding systems of the modern dairy farm. We will discuss IVF technology and how it can be used on a large scale for purposes of advancing the genetic potential of the female population on commercial dairy farms. Integration of this technology with the trusted council of each herd’s veterinarian is key in helping a farm advance the leverage of their genetics into the next generation. Explore this technology and learn about the crucial role a herd veterinarian contributes in the success of these programs.

Melissa Haag, DVM, graduated from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. Upon graduation, she worked in the Livestock Division of a large, mixed animal practice in south central Wisconsin. While there, Dr. Haag practiced medicine and surgery on common livestock species and provided routine herd health care to large and small dairies. During her 10 years in private practice, she developed a strong interest in advanced reproductive technology and decided to focus her career on IVF and embryo transfer services. Dr. Haag joined Trans Ova Genetics as a Professional Services Veterinarian in February 2022. Dr. Haag and her husband also co-own a small dairy in northwest Dane County with her in-laws, where they milk 120 registered Holsteins and Guernseys.

Technology–What Can It Do on the Farm?

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Sponsored by DeLaval

Understanding more about what technology can do allows you to support your clients in making better business decisions. You have worked with your clients for many years, and you know how adaptable they are or are not. Learn how to begin the process of helping clients understand how to be open to change. Technology will never replace management that does not do the basics well.

Nancy Charlton, DVM, spent 13 years working for DeLaval in the Precision Technology, focusing on Robotics and Automation in Parlours as it is rolling out with our new E series Rotaries. Data Analytics and Machine Learning are now playing a more significant role, and she looks forward to supporting the latest products that will identify cows in heat using machine learning.

Updates on Managing Obstructive Urolithiasis in Small Ruminants

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits total

This lecture and lab combination will start with a lecture that summarizes the workup and medical management options of blocked animals, utilizing a decision tree for referral consideration. It will also cover prevention strategies. The optional lab will consist of ultrasound-guided Bonanno catheter placement in cadavers, urethral process amputation from penises harvested from slaughter facilities, and PU surgery.

This lecture is included in the admission price and required for those attending the accompanying lab, which will have a capacity limit.

Paul Merkatoris, DVM, DACVS – LA, is a board-certified large animal surgeon who graduated from UW-Madison SVM, completed a large animal medicine and surgery internship, then a residency at Iowa State University in large animal surgery. Dr. Merkatoris was faculty at ISU for one year and has been large animal surgery faculty at UW SVM since 2021.

SVM Curriculum Focus Group — Equine

1-hour focus group • no CE credits • 10 max
Audience: DVM

UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine will be hosting a one-hour focus group session on the ongoing efforts to revise the DVM curriculum. After a brief overview, participants will discuss a series of focused questions about general practice activities, including common presentations, diagnoses, and procedures seen or performed in their practice. SVM personnel will also be available throughout the event to answer questions and hear perspectives about the DVM program.

Peggy Schmidt, DVM, MS, DACVPM (Associate Dean for Professional Programs), was a rural mixed animal practitioner for five years before she began her academic career. She received her DVM from the University of Minnesota and MS from Iowa State University. Dr. Schmidt has held instructor, faculty, and administrator roles across four different veterinary programs. She currently oversees the DVM curriculum at UW SVM. Dr. Schmidt has taught a variety of topics, including clinical skills, food animal medicine, food safety, and epidemiology.

Margene Anderson, MS, EdD (Educational Advancement and Faculty Development Specialist), previously worked campus-wide as Sr. Teaching and Learning Consultant at Wisconsin’s Center for Teaching, Learning & Mentoring, focusing primarily on curricular transformation in Pre/Health Professions Education and STEM. Prior to transitioning to Higher Education, Margene spent 15 years as a K-12 educator. Margene holds a BS in Secondary English, an MS in Curriculum and Instruction, and EdSpec in Education Administration, as well as an EdD in Higher Education and Leadership Studies: Curriculum and Instruction.

Jim Narlock, BS, MaED (Curriculum Manager), has a BS in psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, a MaED from the University of Phoenix, and is nearing completion of an EdD from Grand Canyon University. As curriculum manager, Jim provides primary support for curriculum revision efforts at UW-Madison. He organizes and maintains the curriculum map and other documentation for the revised curriculum. Jim also participates in the delivery of faculty development in teaching and learning. He has an extensive background in teaching, learning, and curriculum and professional development in K-12 and higher education.

An Update on the Use of Bisphosphonates in Horses

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Sponsored by Dechra

This presentation is meant to review information regarding bisphosphonate drugs in equine practice and introduce recently available scientific data and research. Topics will include clinical efficacy data, pharmacokinetic data, equine safety studies, and recently discovered effects in non-bone cells. This practical knowledge can be applied in the clinical setting when considering the use of bisphosphonate drugs in equine patients.

Greg Schmid, DVM, is an Equine Professional Services Veterinarian for Dechra Veterinary Products, LLC. Dr. Schmid received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University and completed a private practice equine internship at B.W. Furlong & Associates in New Jersey. He then worked in a sport horse practice on the East Coast with John R. Steele and Associates, and later a general medicine practice on the West Coast before joining Dechra in September 2020. During his time at Dechra, Dr. Schmid has provided technical seminars, and webinars, on a variety of topics to veterinary professionals and students.

Genomic Decisions to Drive Profitability

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Sponsored by Zoetis

There is a proven way to improve cattle health genetically with direct predictions of disease risks and genetic indexes that balance selection emphasis based on the cost of disease. Genomic testing with CLARIFIDE®Plus provides U.S. dairy producers with unparalleled visibility into genetic potential for production, health, fertility, longevity, and profitability. In this session, we will discuss how producers have successfully implemented a genomic strategy to accelerate their genetic progress and profitability compared to their peers.

Jerome Meyer is the current Area Business Manager for Zoetis, overseeing operations throughout Wisconsin, eastern Iowa, and northern Illinois. Jerome and the Zoetis team work with veterinarians, producers, and AI organizations to maximize health and genetics of herds in the region by incorporating CLARIFIDE®Plus. Jerome previously worked with CentralStar Cooperative, a member of Select Sires. There, he guided herd owners and managers at key dairy accounts to maximize returns on their genetics.

Colostrum: The Superfood

1.5-hour Lecture • 1.8 scientific credits

Sponsored by SCCL

Dr. White will discuss the importance of day 1 colostrum in calf health, how colostrum supplementation can improve calf health and performance beyond day 1, and what makes whole bovine colostrum a “Superfood”.

Travis White, DVM, is a nationally recognized and awarded veterinarian with a lifetime of experience in the beef industry and over 13 years in the veterinary industry. Dr. White graduated from Washington State University-College of Veterinary Medicine and has major focuses in production animal medicine, advanced reproduction, education, and neonatal calf care. His personal passions are spending time with family, fly fishing, and raising field-bred English Springer Spaniels in his home state of Idaho. Dr. White currently serves as Director Of Veterinary Technical Services for Saskatoon Colostrum Company.

Updates on Managing Obstructive Urolithiasis in Small Ruminants

1.5-hour Lab • 1.8 scientific credits • max 10
Audience: DVM

Ultrasounds sponsored by Patterson Veterinary Supply

This is a continuation of Part One and the accompanying lab for the 1 – 2:30 p.m. lecture for attendees who purchased the a la carte option.

SVM Curriculum Focus Group — Large Animal

1-hour focus group • no CE credits • 10 max
Audience: DVM

UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine will be hosting a one-hour focus group session on the ongoing efforts to revise the DVM curriculum. After a brief overview, participants will discuss a series of focused questions about general practice activities, including common presentations, diagnoses, and procedures seen or performed in their practice. SVM personnel will also be available throughout the event to answer questions and hear perspectives about the DVM program.

Peggy Schmidt, DVM, MS, DACVPM (Associate Dean for Professional Programs), was a rural mixed animal practitioner for five years before she began her academic career. She received her DVM from the University of Minnesota and MS from Iowa State University. Dr. Schmidt has held instructor, faculty, and administrator roles across four different veterinary programs. She currently oversees the DVM curriculum at UW SVM. Dr. Schmidt has taught a variety of topics, including clinical skills, food animal medicine, food safety, and epidemiology.

Margene Anderson, MS, EdD (Educational Advancement and Faculty Development Specialist), previously worked campus-wide as Sr. Teaching and Learning Consultant at Wisconsin’s Center for Teaching, Learning & Mentoring, focusing primarily on curricular transformation in Pre/Health Professions Education and STEM. Prior to transitioning to Higher Education, Margene spent 15 years as a K-12 educator. Margene holds a BS in Secondary English, an MS in Curriculum and Instruction, and EdSpec in Education Administration, as well as an EdD in Higher Education and Leadership Studies: Curriculum and Instruction.

Jim Narlock, BS, MaED (Curriculum Manager), has a BS in psychology from Middle Tennessee State University, a MaED from the University of Phoenix, and is nearing completion of an EdD from Grand Canyon University. As curriculum manager, Jim provides primary support for curriculum revision efforts at UW-Madison. He organizes and maintains the curriculum map and other documentation for the revised curriculum. Jim also participates in the delivery of faculty development in teaching and learning. He has an extensive background in teaching, learning, and curriculum and professional development in K-12 and higher education.