Leading lady
In her own words, Janet Donlin, the AVMA's new CEO, talks about the power of working collaboratively
By Malinda Larkin
Photo by R. Scott Nolen
AVMA CEO Janet Donlin will work with Dr. David Granstrom (left), assistant executive vice president, and Adrian Hochstadt, deputy CEO, to lead the Association in protecting, promoting, and advancing the veterinary profession.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
AVMA CEO Janet Donlin will work with Dr. David Granstrom (left), assistant executive vice president, and Adrian Hochstadt, deputy CEO, to lead the Association in protecting, promoting, and advancing the veterinary profession.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
AVMA CEO Janet Donlin will work with Dr. David Granstrom (left), assistant executive vice president, and Adrian Hochstadt, deputy CEO, to lead the Association in protecting, promoting, and advancing the veterinary profession.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
What does it mean to you to be the first woman to hold this position?
I am honored and humbled by this amazing opportunity. I've always thought of myself as a veterinarian first and foremost. It's my hope that I can be a role model for all of the young professionals. I'm cognizant of the fact that veterinary medicine is changing. There are all of these very talented women coming into the profession, including my daughter, Nicole, who's a fourth-year veterinary student at Missouri. I want all veterinary students—both men and women—to know that there are no limitations. They can be what they want to be. Because of my daughter, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities millennials face. I am committed to doing my part to ensure that the AVMA remains relevant and its role vital to these folks.
What are the AVMA's greatest strengths?
This is a great profession. To a large extent, I think it's because we have such a great association. We have members who care deeply, who have done so much through this Association to advance the profession. We talk about how the AVMA protects, promotes and advances the profession—that's because members have been doing this since day one.
I remember the first day I came to work at the AVMA in 1991, as an assistant director in what was then the AVMA Scientific Activities Division. Dr. Murray Fowler, a legend in zoo medicine, was here for a meeting of the American Board of Veterinary Specialties. That's the caliber of people who walk through the doors of this Association, serving on our committees and providing valuable input—great leaders who care passionately about this profession. And they're backed by a very talented staff doing a wide variety of things, from publications to accounting. To a person, they care about the profession and want to do what they can to keep it strong.
What are the AVMA's weaknesses?
One area I think we could be better at is communicating with those we serve. This has been true everywhere I've been. People get busy, and sometimes communication can suffer. You can be doing these great things, but if you're not talking as effectively about what you're doing or why you're doing it, members won't know. And now, with social media, there's an even greater opportunity to communicate—and a greater opportunity for messages to get lost.
Also, anywhere I've been, I've seen we can try to do too much. It's always better to be strategic. That's why the strategy management process is so vital. You want to use your resources—your people and finances—as impactfully as possible. You do that by limiting yourself to key things that make a difference. The AVMA understands this. We take the time to listen to members, to understand what they need and what is most valuable to them.
Dr. Janet Donlin says she enjoys talking to veterinary students about how to develop business skills, as she is doing here at Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine. (Photos courtesy of Dr. Janet Donlin)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Janet Donlin says she enjoys talking to veterinary students about how to develop business skills, as she is doing here at Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine. (Photos courtesy of Dr. Janet Donlin)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Janet Donlin says she enjoys talking to veterinary students about how to develop business skills, as she is doing here at Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine. (Photos courtesy of Dr. Janet Donlin)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
What are threats to the AVMA's future success?
Anything that threatens our members is a threat to us. We strive to help our members effectively address any potential threats because we care so much about the profession. An example of that would be if telemedicine were done in some way that did not efficiently and effectively protect the veterinarian-client-patient relationship and did not advance the care of patients. That's why our telemedicine working group is taking a look at this topic, so it's done the right way, so that we make certain patients and clients are well-served.
From 2000–2001, you helped get the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues off the ground and were its interim director. What are your thoughts on how the profession's understanding of economics has changed and on the AVMA Veterinary Economics Division continuing the commission's work?
It was hard in the beginning. We used to hold as a badge of honor that veterinarians didn't make money and that we did it for other things. We love what we do—that's why it's our passion and our profession—but it's important that we are paid enough and paid well, so that we can continue to do what we're doing, so that we can have the tools and staff we need in order to deliver quality care.
That means veterinarians have to be profitable. The NCVEI was built on the premise that quality patient care requires a sound economic foundation. Our present-day economics division, with the guidance of the Veterinary Economics Strategy Committee, is producing economic reports, summits, educational seminars, and financial planning tools that offer insight into markets for veterinary medicine. The more information we make available to veterinarians, the better off we'll all be.
There was lots of talk about the gender wage gap with the NCVEI in its early days, and the problem persists. What can be done about it?
I don't have all the answers on the gender pay gap, but closing it is essential. I see opportunity with the Veterinary Business Management Association and with the Women's Veterinary Leadership Development Initiative. They are doing a great job talking about business and business skills with veterinary students. When you are going to negotiate, you need to know what the employer needs from you, what skills are good to have, how to negotiate what you bring to the table, and what you're worth.
I love seeing those things being taught at all of the veterinary colleges. And I really enjoy talking about those topics when I lecture to students. Because knowing your self-worth and value puts you in a good spot and helps you get the best salary. And, as your career develops, continuing to know what skills to build up will add more value to you and, by extension, your employer. This helps you continue to grow your worth and your compensation. I'm thrilled that this topic is becoming an area of emphasis—it certainly is with the AVMA. I'm a big believer that pay equity is key for motivating employees and making certain they are happy.
What are your thoughts on the topic of wellness?
I was involved way back with the AVMA Committee on Wellness, which, at that time, had a focus on impairment. The AVMA and state VMAs worked together to put in place some good treatment programs that remain important. Resources can be a challenge for states, so the programs can vary in what's available. That's an important issue because we want to make sure people have resources, wherever they live. We also want to make certain that there isn't a barrier for veterinarians or technicians who are impaired to seek the treatment they need for fear of losing their license. So going forward, the question is, how can we work with states to put in place good legislation that encourages those who are impaired to seek treatment they need?
Wellness and well-being, in general, are important for everyone. The AVMA is putting together a great coalition and building from the veterinary school level on, to address different challenges at different life stages.
One thing the wellness coalition is building on is the AVMA wellness webpage. We're trying to do tangible things like add links to a hotline for suicide prevention in the coming year.
You've had a nontraditional career. What drew you to other areas of veterinary medicine, and what did you learn from those experiences?
When I graduated, I thought I'd be in practice my entire career. But I had the opportunity to become an educator of veterinary technicians and got to know the AVMA that way and came to work for the Association. I learned a lot from volunteers and staff. I learned that the profession faces challenges, but working together through associations, you can make certain those challenges are effectively addressed. That's what associations are all about.
I really enjoyed working in industry, at Hill's Pet Nutrition. From that, I learned how to be even more businesslike. Our members need us to make certain that for every dollar they give us in dues, we use that money effectively, delivering value and more back to them. In industry, you are very focused on optimizing use of resources to maximize return on investment.
With AVMA PLIT, I once again learned the importance of member value and the importance of our leaders who volunteer their time by serving on the board and keep us so member focused.
Throughout my career, I've been so fortunate in everything I've been able to do. I want to encourage young people to know there's nothing but opportunity in this great profession, no matter where their journeys take them.
How important has mentorship been to you in your career?
Having good people around you to mentor you makes all the difference. People who encourage you, who let you see opportunities you wouldn't have seen yourself—and even help open doors for you—can have a huge impact on your life. I have been lucky with that; folks encouraged me to think differently. But I also had to step through the door.
I have been so fortunate in the mentors I have had, who have given their time because of their passion, to encourage me in so many different ways. One of the things I have enjoyed the most was giving my dearest mentor, Dr. Jim Nave—an AVMA past president and legend in veterinary medicine—an award from the (KC) Animal Health Corridor, when he was recognized as Veterinarian of the Year. He's been an inspiration to me, making me want to mentor others, too.
When I'm talking with students, I always encourage them to not only think about what they want to achieve in their career and personally but also how they impact others because that is where they will really make a difference. Dr. Meghan Stalker, who started the VBMA, has impacted so many folks because of that. If everyone thinks of what their impact can be beyond themselves, this profession can be bigger and greater than anyone can imagine.
One health was emerging as a major topic right before you left the AVMA, with Dr. Mahr telling the House of Delegates in 2006 that he'd form the One Health Commission. How has that topic shaped the profession?
I remember Dr. Mahr, when he started way back when. I helped him as he wrote his recommendations regarding the promotion of one health, and I shepherded them through to Board approval. Since then, the One Health Commission has been doing exciting work; on Nov. 3, we'll celebrate the first One Health Day. The AVMA and American Academy of Pediatrics have issued a joint press release in recognition of the day. When traveling internationally, it was exciting to see how the topic of one health resonated wherever I was—with veterinarians, medical professionals … everyone. That shows you that this is the right thing, when everyone talks about it. One health is key for improving animal and human health. It all ties together: food safety, the human-animal bond, translational research, well-being, and more.
How can the AVMA continue to be all things to all veterinarians?
It's an umbrella organization, which, to me, is a tremendous strength. There are so many opportunities to be relevant in so many ways in a constantly changing world. It is a challenge to make certain that everyone who is busy working very hard in their specific areas understands what their colleagues are doing in different areas—whether that's animal welfare or food animal practice—and understands others' perspectives. Addressing those effectively makes us stronger. Understanding diverse perspectives and building on those is a good thing. We're a small but important profession. It's crucial for us to speak with a clear, strong voice when advocating—whether at the national or state level. Being the umbrella organization helps us ensure we can do that.
When asked about work-life balance, Dr. Janet Donlin says surrounding herself with a strong network of friends, family, and co-workers helps her get through a lot of things. She also says her children—Jessica (middle), Paul, and Nicole, pictured here at Jessica's graduation from the University of Kansas—have added a great deal to her life.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
When asked about work-life balance, Dr. Janet Donlin says surrounding herself with a strong network of friends, family, and co-workers helps her get through a lot of things. She also says her children—Jessica (middle), Paul, and Nicole, pictured here at Jessica's graduation from the University of Kansas—have added a great deal to her life.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
When asked about work-life balance, Dr. Janet Donlin says surrounding herself with a strong network of friends, family, and co-workers helps her get through a lot of things. She also says her children—Jessica (middle), Paul, and Nicole, pictured here at Jessica's graduation from the University of Kansas—have added a great deal to her life.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Council on Education recognized by USDE
The Department of Education has renewed its recognition of the AVMA Council on Education as the sole accreditor of U.S. veterinary colleges.
Emma Vadehra, chief of staff to the secretary of education, sent a letter Sept. 22 confirming the decision to Dr. Karen Martens Brandt, director of the AVMA Education and Research Division and staff liaison to the council.
The notice comes after the council has spent nearly four years vying for the designation.
In December 2012, the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity reviewed the COE's application for re-recognition. NACIQI is an advisory panel comprising 18 volunteer members appointed by Congress and the USDE. Its main job is to recommend to the education secretary whether the accrediting agencies it reviews, such as the COE, deserve the department's stamp of approval. The USDE then determines whether to recognize those agencies as qualified to evaluate the education and training provided by higher education programs and to accredit or reaccredit them.
Initially, NACIQI gave the council one year to comply with a series of department standards and submit a report demonstrating compliance with issues identified during its review.
When the COE went before NACIQI for a second time, in December 2014, the advisory panel, on the basis of the USDE staff report, identified four areas in which the COE would have to demonstrate compliance before being granted re-recognition, and a fifth one was added during the hearing. The council submitted its compliance report to the USDE in October 2015 and went before NACIQI a final time this past June.
The COE has been recognized by the USDE since 1952, and the USDE's latest recognition of the council has been renewed for the remainder of the current cycle (1 1/2 years).
Webinar explores how to transition to corporate medicine
The AVMA Veterinary Career Center is offering a webinar to interested practitioners to detail what types of jobs are available in industry, what qualifications are needed for those jobs, and how practitioners can transition into the corporate world.
The free webinar will take place from noon to 1 p.m. CST on Nov. 17. It will feature Dr. Karen Felsted and Stacy Purcell talking about everything from making the decision to seek an industry position to finding the right job and making a successful transition.
Dr. Felsted is a certified public accountant and veterinarian who has spent the past 15 years as a financial and operational consultant to veterinary practices and the animal health industry. She spent three years as CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues. Dr. Felsted is a past treasurer of VetPartners, a member of the Veterinary Economics Editorial Advisory Board, a past board member of the Certified Veterinary Practice Managers within the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association, and a past treasurer of the CATalyst Council.
Purcell is founder and CEO of Vet Recruiter, an executive search and recruitment firm that specializes in the animal health, animal nutrition, veterinary, pet products, and agriculture industries. She has assisted a number of animal health companies in recruiting senior-level management. In addition, Purcell has helped startup companies build their teams and assisted veterinary hospitals in finding associates, chiefs of staff, and medical directors. Purcell has 19 years of executive search and recruiting experience.
Heartworm guidance could change
Diagnostic, vector control, and adulticide protocols might be adjusted
By Greg Cima
In an interview following the recent American Heartworm Society triennial symposium, Dr. Christopher J. Rehm, president, said he expects the AHS executive board will discuss whether changes need to be made to the AHS recommendations for veterinarians. Among the issues on the table are diagnostic testing for heartworm disease, vector control, and adulticide protocols for treatment of heartworm infection. He described any potential recommendation changes as adjustments versus wholesale changes but noted that the symposium included a number of compelling presentations from leading experts on heartworm disease.
The society hosted the 2016 symposium this September in New Orleans. Findings presented during the meeting will be published in the journal Parasites and Vectors in early 2017, Dr. Rehm said. While the AHS awaits publication of the symposium topics, he said, the board will discuss whether the new information affects the AHS guidelines and how to best use the information in the society's mission of education.
An AHS announcement indicates the meeting's lectures provided information on the connections between persistence of heartworm disease and factors such as climate, vectors, diagnostic challenges, prevention practices, and treatment protocols. Dr. Clarke Atkins, co-chair of the symposium program committee, said in the announcement that heartworm disease remains one of the most important and complex diseases addressed in veterinary medicine, and that that complexity was reflected in the presentations.
Dr. Rehm became AHS president during the meeting. He is the owner of Rehm Animal Clinics in southern Alabama.
Dr. Christopher J. Rehm (Courtesy of the American Heartworm Society)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Christopher J. Rehm (Courtesy of the American Heartworm Society)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Christopher J. Rehm (Courtesy of the American Heartworm Society)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Heartworm testing
The AHS guidelines currently advocate use of microfilaria testing in tandem with heartworm antigen testing, especially when veterinarians suspect their patients have had intermittent heartworm preventive use or the patient's preventive history is unavailable, as in the case of dogs from shelters, rescued or found pets, or any new pet without a history of consistent heartworm preventive usage.
“It has come to light that in some dogs infected with heartworms, antigen–antibody complexes may lead to false-negative antigen test results,” the guidelines state. The guidelines cite a study (Vet Parasitol 2014;206:67–70) conducted on shelter dogs in the southeastern United States that identified this occurring at a rate of 7.1 percent. Dr. Rehm said the problem was discovered when tests were repeated, with the addition of heat-fixing or immune complex dissociation techniques.
“Interestingly,” he said, “some of the dogs with false-negative antigen results were found to be microfilaria-positive, which implies that some infections can be identified with microfilaria testing even when antigen–antibody complexes lead to false-negative antigen tests.”
Dr. Rehm said research indicates veterinarians can eliminate some of those false negatives through immune complex dissociation techniques, and he expects more information on use of those techniques will be presented at the North American Veterinary Community Conference in February 2017. But he expressed doubt that those techniques are ready for clinical practice, since they measure antigen presence without distinguishing whether the heartworms are alive.
“The AHS board will be discussing ICD, what the results may mean, and when it may be appropriate to use such techniques,” he said.
Further study also could help determine whether macrocyclic lactone administration is connected with immune complex development, he said.
“I think that it's obvious, with the studies that have been done, that more immune studies need to be done in heartworm disease and how the immune system works,” he said.
Dr. Rehm added that the AHS may consider placing more emphasis on its recommendations for routine microfilaria testing. He noted that one presenter, Dr. Ray Kaplan, had indicated an absence of microfilaria is likely to correlate with an absence of heartworm resistance to preventives.
“I know the guidelines suggest microfilaria testing, but we need to discuss the need to encourage and do more of it. We need the profession to equate heartworm testing with both antigen and microfiliaria testing and consistently perform both every time,” Dr. Rehm said.
In July 2014, the Companion Animal Parasite Council changed its guidelines to recommend veterinarians perform annual microfilaria tests on dogs in addition to annual antigen tests because of the potential for false negatives on antigen tests. Similar to the AHS guidance, the CAPC announcement notes that some dogs appear to develop immune complexes that block antigen detection through commercial tests, and suggests that these false negatives could be related to the practice of treating dogs long-term with macrocyclic lactone preventives and antimicrobials, rather than with adulticide treatments. Dr. Rehm stressed that melarsomine is the only treatment for adult heartworm disease, and the use of macrocyclic lactones and doxycycline is recommended by the AHS as a preparation for melarsomine treatment—not as an alternative to it.
Heartworm treatment, doxycycline, and vector control
Dr. Rehm said he expects the AHS board also will discuss the society's guidelines regarding heartworm disease treatment.
When a dog is positive for heartworm infection, the AHS guidelines recommend administering macrocyclic lactones in conjunction with doxycycline for two months before starting melarsomine treatment. This regimen is intended not only to prevent new infections but also to eliminate susceptible larvae while 2- to 4-month-old worms become susceptible to adulticide therapy. It also allows Wolbachia organisms to diminish and adult worm biomass to decrease, both of which appear to decrease pulmonary complications during treatment, he said. Restricted activity remains an extremely important recommendation for decreasing treatment complications.
Dr. Rehm performs an eye examination on his patient Winston. (Photo by Laurel Fleming)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Rehm performs an eye examination on his patient Winston. (Photo by Laurel Fleming)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Rehm performs an eye examination on his patient Winston. (Photo by Laurel Fleming)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Rehm also anticipates discussion on whether more specific guidance and information are needed on vector control. The symposium included presentations on factors that increase the prevalence of heartworm infection among mosquito populations, how microclimates affect mosquito populations, and the potential to reduce infection through multimodal approaches.
In conclusion, Dr. Rehm noted that prevention is the best heartworm intervention. He noted that the disease can have devastating effects, causing lung lesions that can be detected more than a decade later in those dogs that survive.
Screwworms found in Florida
Flesh-eating larvae infested deer, possibly pets
By Greg Cima
Deer and possibly some pets in the Florida Keys have been infested with screwworms, which have not been widely present in the U.S. since the 1960s.
Officials with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service warned in October that the New World screwworms found on Big Pine Key can infest all warmblooded animals. In an announcement, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam said, “The screwworm is a potentially devastating animal disease that sends shivers down every rancher's spine.”
“It's been more than five decades since the screwworm last infested Florida, and I've grown up hearing the horror stories from the last occurrence,” he said in the announcement. “This foreign animal disease poses a grave threat to wildlife, livestock and domestic pets in Florida.
“Though rare, it can even infect humans. We've eradicated this from Florida before, and we'll do it again.”
Donna L. Karlsons, a spokeswoman for APHIS, provided a statement in early October that more than 40 Key deer had been euthanized in recent months because of concerns about possible larval infestations, but only one of those deer was confirmed to have been infested with screwworms. A separate announcement from state agriculture authorities indicated samples from at least three deer were positive for screwworms, and other deer and some pets had clinical signs of infestation over the preceding two months, although no larvae were collected or tested.
The confirmed cases were in the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key, and the suspected infestations were on Big Pine Key and the neighboring No Name Key, according to state and federal information.
On Oct. 3, Putnam declared an agricultural state of emergency in Monroe County, which comprises the Florida Keys and the state's southwestern tip. APHIS officials warned that people should check their animals and report possible infestations.
“While human cases of New World screwworm are rare, they have occurred, and public health officials are involved in the response,” the announcement states. “For more information about this disease in humans, please contact your local public health department.
“Using fly repellents and keeping skin wounds clean and protected from flies can help prevent infection with screwworm in both people and animals.”
Screwworms are fly larvae, or maggots. Female flies tend to lay eggs at the edges of wounds or on mucous membranes, where the larvae eat the living flesh, Karlsons wrote. Clinical signs of infestation include draining or odiferous and enlarging wounds.
“Larvae may be visible, and minor movement within a wound may be evident,” she wrote. “Veterinarians should be extremely vigilant in examining pets for any wounds or lesions.”
Infestations can be fatal if the victim is not treated. Florida agriculture officials established a quarantine area for animals starting from the southern coastal border of Key Largo Island and an animal health checkpoint where northbound animals would be given health checks to keep screwworms from spreading. Adult flies typically travel no more than a few miles when host animals are available, and screwworms are more likely to spread through travel by infested animals, according to APHIS.
The APHIS announcement indicates state and federal agencies planned to trap flies to measure the extent of infestation, release sterile male flies to prevent reproduction, and look for additional infestations in animals.
The USDA eradicated self-sustaining screwworm populations in the U.S. in 1966 and worked with officials in Mexico to eliminate infestations there. Mexico was declared free from screwworms in 1991, and the USDA has since worked with Central American countries to eradicate screwworms all the way to the Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia.
The USDA and partner governments raise sterile flies in Panama to maintain that barrier. Karlsons wrote that the same facility was producing flies for use in the Keys, with an optimum release of 2,250 sterile flies per square mile every week.
“We are preparing to release the initial round of flies early next week and will continue to release flies in the control area for the coming weeks,” she wrote in early October. “No exact timeline is available because we're still determining the exact extent of the infestation.”
Screwworms also entered the U.S. on dogs traveling from Trinidad and Tobago in 2007 and Venezuela in 2010. Both dogs spent time in Florida, and one traveled to Mississippi. Sites where the dogs were known to have traveled were disinfected to destroy larvae and prevent spread of the pest.
Screwworms live in most of South America and five Caribbean countries, APHIS information states.
Pharmacy recalls sterile products
A Florida pharmacy has recalled 12 veterinary products prepared over seven months over concerns about a lack of sterility assurance.
The Food and Drug Administration announced Sept. 20 that Wells Pharmacy Network of Ocala, Florida, was recalling all its sterile human and veterinary medical products produced between Feb. 22 and Sept. 14. The agency noted that none of the products has been found to be nonsterile, but administration of a drug intended to be sterile but contaminated could cause life-threatening infections.
Medical professionals and patients who have unexpired products on the list should discontinue use, quarantine unused products until they receive instructions on how to return the products, and contact Wells' quality hotline at 800-794-2360 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST Monday-Friday or send a message to WPNQuality@wellsrx.com to discuss product returns or ask questions.
The following veterinary products were recalled:
Cyclosporine (A) oil solution (10 mL) 2% ophthalmic, lots 07142016@35 and 08022016@20
Detomidine HCl/xylazine (20 mL) 10 mg/10 mg/mL injectable, lots 04272016@94 and 08022016@70
Estradiol cypionate 5 mg/mL injectable, lots 05092016@12, 06282016@79, 08022016@13
Estrone aqueous 5 mg/mL injectable, lots 06272016@29, 06292016@5, 08022016@8, 08182016@7
Flunixin meglumine 50 mg/mL injectable, lots 08052016@47, 08092016@57, 08112016@7
Glucosamine sulfate 20% injectable, lot 05102016@6
Histrelin acetate, lyophilized 5.5 mg injectable, lot 04062016@6
Medroxyprogesterone acetate 200 mg/mL injectable, lots 05022016@11, 05272016@5, 06202016@2, 06232016@27, 08222016@18
Methocarbamol 100 mg/mL injectable, lots 05272016@3 and 06222016@7
Pentosan sodium polysulfate 250 mg/mL injectable, lots 05112016@8 and 06142016@47
Phenylephrine HCl (5 mL) 1 mg/mL (0.1%) injectable, lot 07202016@44
Progesterone in sesame oil 150 mg/mL injectable, lots 04082016@7, 05112016@3, 06152016@1, 07072016@7, and 08022016@27
The FDA is providing a list of recalled human and animal products, with lot numbers, at http://jav.ma/Wellsrecall.
Apply now for school, summer research scholarships
The application period is open for two beneficial programs for veterinary students.
Merial sponsors the AVMA/American Veterinary Medical Foundation Second Opportunity Summer Research Scholarship. Students who participated in the 2016 Merial–National Institutes of Health National Veterinary Scholars Symposium and would like a second summer of research experience can apply; the deadline is Jan. 13, 2017. Five students will receive $5,000 stipends plus $1,000 to travel to the 2017 NIH Symposium Aug. 3–6 at the NIH campus in Washington, D.C. Go to www.avmf.org/programs/2nd-opportunity-research-scholarship.
Merck Animal Health partners with the AVMF to offer 20 $5,000 scholarships to second- and third-year veterinary students in the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean. Applications for the Merck Animal Health Veterinary Student Scholarship Program are due by Dec. 31. Half the scholarships will go to students focusing on companion animal or equine medicine, the other half to students focusing on food animal or aquatic animal medicine. Another 14 are for students at select international schools. Go to www.avmf.org/programs/merck-animal-health.
Building membership by showing benefits
AABP president sees chance to show organization's benefits
By Greg Cima
As president, Dr. Mark J. Thomas plans to advance the American Association of Bovine Practitioners' work on developing an ethics task force and improving member recruitment and retention. The veterinarian from Lowville, New York, specializes in dairy cattle production medicine, research, and consulting services. (Photo by Joyce Sullivan)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
As president, Dr. Mark J. Thomas plans to advance the American Association of Bovine Practitioners' work on developing an ethics task force and improving member recruitment and retention. The veterinarian from Lowville, New York, specializes in dairy cattle production medicine, research, and consulting services. (Photo by Joyce Sullivan)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
As president, Dr. Mark J. Thomas plans to advance the American Association of Bovine Practitioners' work on developing an ethics task force and improving member recruitment and retention. The veterinarian from Lowville, New York, specializes in dairy cattle production medicine, research, and consulting services. (Photo by Joyce Sullivan)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Mark J. Thomas wants to build on his predecessors' work in recruiting and retaining members of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
That will involve showing fellow veterinarians in cattle practice what advocacy and other work the AABP performs on their behalf, beyond hosting an annual meeting.
Dr. Thomas, a dairy veterinarian in Lowville, New York, is the 2016–2017 AABP president, the association's volunteer leader. He is a managing partner in Dairy Health and Management Services and Countryside Veterinary Clinic, specializing in dairy cattle production medicine and consulting services.
He took office during the AABP's annual conference, hosted this September in Charlotte, North Carolina. He also was chairman of the program committee for the 2016 meeting, which included a mix of presentations on scientific subjects and aspects of practice such as personal well-being, suicide prevention, and human resource management.
Aiding members
In an interview since the meeting, Dr. Thomas said he wants to continue his predecessors' work on developing the AABP's ethics task force and to improve member recruitment and retention.
On the former subject, he noted that ethical views can shift with societal change. In 2015, AABP board members voted to create the Ethics in Cattle Practice Task Force to advise the board of directors and help AABP members navigate societal changes and continue to practice in an ethical manner.
That includes reviewing the AVMA Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics, deciding whether additional guidance specific to bovine practice is needed, as well as working with the AABP board to develop any necessary bovine-specific guidelines.
To aid in member recruitment and retention, he wants to see wider recognition of the services the AABP provides beyond continuing education at the annual conference.
“I really want to highlight to our membership what else AABP does do for our members,” he said.
Until he became a board member, Dr. Thomas said even he did not know about the daily activities by the AABP executive vice president and board.
On the day he spoke with JAVMA, for example, he said the AABP was preparing a letter requesting that the Food and Drug Administration extend the comment period on possible limitations on the duration of antimicrobial treatment in livestock.
“We really need to keep our membership updated on all the other aspects of what AABP is doing to preserve our profession,” he said.
He said AABP leaders can do better at telling members about work behind the scenes, such as meetings with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, the AVMA, and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians; lobbying regulators; meeting with members of Congress; and advocating in general on issues such as antimicrobial administration and federal student loan repayments. Improvements could range from expanding relationships with news media seen by veterinarians to posting photos on Facebook of himself and other AABP leaders on Capitol Hill.
The AABP also is considering adding a nonvoting student representative to the AABP board of directors, which would give insight into the profession's future and increase age diversity among leaders. He noted that he was considered young for a board member when he joined around age 35, and he wants to see recent graduates become board members.
He also would like to see student AABP delegates remain in leadership after graduation, whether on committees or the board.
High student debt, the need for loan repayment programs, and the need to debunk a myth of a veterinarian shortage remain issues for the AABP, he said. Increasing requirements for veterinarian oversight of antimicrobial use also will require changes for veterinarians, particularly those in dairy practice.
Antimicrobials that are in drug classes considered important for human medicine and administered in feed or water will require veterinary feed directives or prescriptions for use by the end of this year. FDA officials have announced that the pharmaceutical companies that own approvals for all such drugs have agreed to eliminate over-the-counter access as well as use of those drugs for production purposes such as growth promotion (see JAVMA, Nov. 1, 2016, page 968).
Leading in cattle medicine
Dr. Thomas grew up on a cow-calf farm in southeastern New York, where his family had horses and a mix of other livestock. He was about 8 years old when he began dreaming of going to veterinary school.
He attended Cornell University, becoming president of Cornell's Block and Bridle Club as an undergraduate and becoming involved in the university's AABP student chapter while attending the College of Veterinary Medicine. He graduated in 1997.
Today, his work focuses more on research and consulting than clinical practice, but he said the problem-solving skills he developed in veterinary college continue to serve him.
Dr. Thomas was a member of the AABP Membership Committee from 2004–2008 and then until 2014 was a district director, a position he held until he became vice president. AABP officers serve four consecutive one-year terms as vice president, president-elect, president, and immediate past president.
Dr. Thomas said he has become president during an exciting time, as leadership transitions in 2017 from Dr. M. Gatz Riddell, who has been executive vice president since March 2005, to Dr. K. Fred Gingrich II, who resigned as president July 1 to prepare for that job.
He praised Dr. Riddell for his insight and foresight and Dr. Gingrich for his ideas on opportunities for positive changes. He expressed hope his own experience as an AABP board member will help during those changes.
Dr. Thomas said veterinarians should remember to use science in their decisions, a lesson learned in their training but often lost in moments of emotional responses. AABP members can help people realize the veterinary profession is working for the well-being of livestock, livestock owners, and the public, he said, noting all AABP members have some role in food and public safety.
He also suggested that veterinarians watch for signs of stress among their clients, who are dealing with a tough dairy economy and a fluctuating farm and livestock economy.
Bovine veterinarians' meeting emphasizes communication
The American Association of Bovine Practitioners' annual conference, held Sept. 15–17 in Charlotte, North Carolina, drew 1,773 attendees, including 1,279 veterinarians and students. The American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners met in conjunction with the AABP.
Keynote speaker Vance Crow led the meeting with its theme of “Facing the Future Together” by challenging attendees to engage in effective communication with the public so that they may persevere and support agriculture within society. Special programming included six small-group Veterinary Feed Directive forums, “Beyond the Medicine” sessions on practice and family life as well as depression and suicide in the veterinary community, and Farmers Assuring Responsible Management sessions from the National Milk Producers Federation.
Almost $250,000 in scholarships and other awards were given to veterinary students and graduate veterinarians. The awards were funded by AABP members and partners as well as the AABP Foundation.
The 2016–2017 officers are Drs. Mark J. Thomas, Lowville, New York, president; Mike Apley, Manhattan, Kansas, president-elect; Glenn Rogers, Aledo, Texas, vice president; John Davidson, Shiner, Texas, past president; and Bryan Halteman, Turlock, California, treasurer.
Tool details, compares cost of veterinary education
Lowest-, highest-cost colleges differ by more than $100,000
By Malinda Larkin
For the first time, veterinary college applicants, students, and others can see in one place not only four-year costs at each of the 30 U.S. veterinary institutions but also how much tuition has increased in the past five years and the amount of scholarship aid that students typically receive. In addition, figures can be compared side by side in a reader-friendly format.
The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges says it developed the Educational Cost Comparison Tool to help aspiring and current veterinary students make better decisions regarding the cost and course of their professional education, according to a Sept. 19 AAVMC press release.
The tool presents the following pieces of financial data:
In-state and out-of-state tuition cost (adjusted for veterinary colleges where residency may be established after the first year) for the class of 2016.
Mean annual increase in tuition from 2010–15.
Amount of institutional scholarship aid awarded in 2015.
Percentage of students to whom scholarship aid was awarded in 2015.
Mean estimated amount of loan debt a student would accrue while enrolled in veterinary school, assuming a loan interest rate of 6 percent.
The AAVMC's Comparative Data Report, surveys of AAVMC member institutions, and internal calculations supply much of the data for the tool. It does not include data about the cost of living for each of the colleges.
A look at the numbers
The figures give a clearer picture of the economic reality of studying to be a veterinarian. Among the 30 U.S. veterinary colleges:
Only seven allow students to establish residency.
Mean percentage of students receiving aid in 2015 was 42.9 percent. Mean institutional aid for first-year students was $5,324, whereas mean total scholarship aid over four years was $12,724.
Mean annual increase in out-of-state tuition over the past five years was 4.02 percent; for in-state tuition, it was 5.84 percent (not including Lincoln Memorial University, Midwestern University, and Western University of Health Sciences, which don't have in-state rates).
Estimated loan interest accrued by out-of-state students came to a mean of $31,796; for in-state students it was $18,905 (again, not including LMU, Midwestern, and Western).
Mean total four-year tuition and loan fees cost was $201,210 for out-of-state students and $119,634 for in-state students (again, not including LMU, Midwestern, and Western).
Importantly, the site warns that the numbers don't tell the whole story, as some veterinary schools are better at offsetting students' costs than others, which can make quite a difference, particularly at the more expensive institutions.
That said, however, the numbers provide some interesting insights. The University of California-Davis ranked fourth for highest cost for in-state students; however, it had the highest percentage (97.4 percent) of students receiving aid and was second best in terms of total mean scholarship aid given to students over four years ($43,554). UC-Davis also had the lowest rate of tuition increases for the past five years for out-of-state students and second lowest for in-state students. The University of Pennsylvania took the top spot in mean scholarship aid given to students over four years at $56,188, but only 26.4 percent of students received aid.
The best, at least in terms of lowest cost to students, was North Carolina State University. It ranked at the lowest cost for tuition—both for in-state and out-of-state students—even with a mean annual increase of 7.7 percent for in-state tuition and 4.3 percent for out-of-state tuition. The University of Wisconsin-Madison had the second lowest cost for out-of-state students and sixth lowest cost for in-state students, while the University of Missouri came in at third for lowest cost for out-of-state students and ninth for in-state students. Washington State University not only was fourth lowest for out-of-state tuition and 12th lowest for in-state tuition but also had the third lowest increase in tuition for out-of-state students and the lowest increase for in-state students among all U.S. institutions for the past five years.
Tuskegee University, although having the fifth lowest tuition rate for out-of-state students, came in last for total scholarship aid over four years ($2,411) and third to last for the percentage of students receiving aid (17.2 percent). Plus, it had the highest annual percentage rate increases in tuition over the past five years at 14.0 percent for out-of-state students and 33.6 percent for in-state students.
Mississippi State University had the fifth cheapest tuition for in-state students but had the lowest percentage of its students receiving aid (2.10 percent), although this likely will be changing soon (see page 1125). And, although it had the fifth highest amount awarded to first-year students ($10,000), total scholarship aid over four years was only $10,612 at Mississippi State.
Not surprisingly, the top five veterinary colleges in terms of cost for out-of-state students—Michigan State University, Midwestern, Colorado State University, the University of Tennessee, and Kansas State University—also ranked in the same order for highest estimated loan interest for out-of-state students. Kansas State had one of the lowest percentages of students receiving aid (11.5 percent) but had the highest mean amount for first-year awards ($21,333). Midwestern, the second most expensive school for out-of-state students, was the only institution that didn't offer any scholarship aid. Tennessee had one of the lowest numbers for total scholarship aid over four years ($4,430). Only 6.4 percent of Western students received any form of scholarship aid, and the mean amount of aid over four years for those who received aid was $2,718.
Taking on educational debt
The Cost Comparison Tool was developed by the AAVMC following an idea that surfaced during the Economics of Veterinary Medical Education Summit, aka Fix the Debt summit, that was held in April at Michigan State, and was co-hosted by the college, the AAVMC, and the AVMA. The current debt-to-income ratio for recent graduates in veterinary medicine is about 2:1, whereas experts believe that ratio should be about 1.4:1.
The existing debt-to-income ratio and rising educational costs represent a multifaceted and ongoing challenge for the profession, one that is being addressed by a variety of stakeholders from professional practice, academia, and the private sector who are collaborating on a 10-point action program developed from the summit. By combining its unique access to institutional data and relationships with prospective veterinary students in a single tool, the AAVMC has made a contribution to this effort.
“Increased transparency and accountability is important,” said Dr. Andrew T. Maccabe, AAVMC CEO. “We think providing clear, easy-to-access data regarding the various components of financing a professional education will help applicants make comparisons, analyze opportunities, and ultimately make better financial decisions.”
AAVMC institutional researchers collaborated with multiple partners, including the AVMA and Veterinary Information Network. The association says data for international AAVMC member institutions that accept U.S. citizens will be added at a later date.
$39M given to The Ohio State veterinary college
By Greg Cima
A former CBS executive's foundation has donated $39 million to The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Ohio State President Michael V. Drake said in a late September announcement that the gift from the foundation of the late Frank Stanton, PhD, would be “transformational.”
“It is an investment in the future of veterinary medical education at Ohio State that will continue in perpetuity through veterinary students and faculty who will provide skillful and compassionate medical care for generations,” he said.
Dr. Stanton, who died in 2006, earned a master's degree at Ohio State in 1932, a doctorate in psychology in 1935, and an honorary doctorate in 1949, and he was president of the CBS television network from 1946–1971.
Dr. Rustin M. Moore, dean of the veterinary college, said in an interview that the program would build on the college's strong foundation, better preparing students for veterinary practice in general and canine medicine in particular. It is intended to be a permanent resource for helping students develop clinical, technical, and professional skills and competencies. He said the university needs to introduce these skills earlier in students' curriculum.
In a letter sent to faculty, students, and staff, Dr. Moore wrote that the gift was being used to establish the Building Preeminence in Veterinary General Practice Education program, which will bolster academic infrastructure, strengthen core clinical and professional competencies, expand experiential learning, and build an innovative laboratory.
Through that program, $19 million will fund the Frank Stanton Endowed Chair in General Practice and Canine Health and Wellness, in which Dr. Lawrence N. Hill has been installed; seven other faculty positions; 12 staff positions; design and construction of a clinical and professional skills lab; and purchase of a mobile veterinary clinic. After five years, university officials plan to use $20 million to endow the preeminence program.
Dr. Moore said the plans include expanding the clinical care outreach programs for homebound and homeless pet owners. That outreach gives students experience working with clients and patients beyond those who come to university hospitals, shows them medical care options for owners who have financial difficulties, and encourages work that benefits communities.
The new 8,500-square-foot laboratory will include high-fidelity simulation models and communication training scenarios using trained actors.
Some of the curriculum will change, he said, and how it will change will be considered over the next year or so.
Shantay Piazza, communications director for the college, said the program will expand practice experience at private clinics, a benefit expected to help all students improve their education, regardless of career path. It also will offer problem-solving–based learning, provide externships, give students more experience in specific aspects of clinical practice such as shelter medicine and dentistry, and boost student confidence, among other benefits.
The Stanton Foundation's gift is among more than $3 billion raised for the “But for Ohio State” fundraising campaign since 2009. The campaign ended this September.
Veterinary students at The Ohio State University wear shirts expressing gratitude for the $39 million gift from Frank Stanton, PhD, and his foundation to the veterinary college. (Photo courtesy of The Ohio State University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Veterinary students at The Ohio State University wear shirts expressing gratitude for the $39 million gift from Frank Stanton, PhD, and his foundation to the veterinary college. (Photo courtesy of The Ohio State University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Veterinary students at The Ohio State University wear shirts expressing gratitude for the $39 million gift from Frank Stanton, PhD, and his foundation to the veterinary college. (Photo courtesy of The Ohio State University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Liz Allison, PhD, Stanton Foundation co-director, pets one of the Cardigan Welsh Corgis brought to the gift announcement in honor of Dr. Stanton, who was a dog lover and Corgi owner. (Photo courtesy of The Ohio State University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Liz Allison, PhD, Stanton Foundation co-director, pets one of the Cardigan Welsh Corgis brought to the gift announcement in honor of Dr. Stanton, who was a dog lover and Corgi owner. (Photo courtesy of The Ohio State University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Liz Allison, PhD, Stanton Foundation co-director, pets one of the Cardigan Welsh Corgis brought to the gift announcement in honor of Dr. Stanton, who was a dog lover and Corgi owner. (Photo courtesy of The Ohio State University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Veterinary colleges receive millions for scholarship funds
Dr. H.B. “Woody” Bartlett recently established the Bartlett Scholars Program at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. Bartlett Ranch, comprising three properties located in Alabama, Texas, and Wyoming, totals nearly 90,000 acres. His original Flying “B” Ranch just outside Montgomery, Alabama, was established in 1954 and remains the headquarters of his tri-state operation. For more than 20 years, veterinary students have learned from Dr. Bartlett about equine medicine and surgery through field experiences on his ranch. (Courtesy of Auburn University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. H.B. “Woody” Bartlett recently established the Bartlett Scholars Program at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. Bartlett Ranch, comprising three properties located in Alabama, Texas, and Wyoming, totals nearly 90,000 acres. His original Flying “B” Ranch just outside Montgomery, Alabama, was established in 1954 and remains the headquarters of his tri-state operation. For more than 20 years, veterinary students have learned from Dr. Bartlett about equine medicine and surgery through field experiences on his ranch. (Courtesy of Auburn University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. H.B. “Woody” Bartlett recently established the Bartlett Scholars Program at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. Bartlett Ranch, comprising three properties located in Alabama, Texas, and Wyoming, totals nearly 90,000 acres. His original Flying “B” Ranch just outside Montgomery, Alabama, was established in 1954 and remains the headquarters of his tri-state operation. For more than 20 years, veterinary students have learned from Dr. Bartlett about equine medicine and surgery through field experiences on his ranch. (Courtesy of Auburn University CVM)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
One solution to the educational debt crisis that's been suggested is awarding more scholarships to veterinary students (see JAVMA, June 15, 2016, page 1320). Both Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine have received the good news that they will be awarded millions to establish more of these programs to benefit students.
At Auburn, an estate gift from Dr. H.B. “Woody” Bartlett (Auburn '64) will establish the Bartlett Scholars Program at the veterinary college, providing scholarships for veterinary and graduate students on the basis of financial need and academic merit.
The Haywood Bellingrath Bartlett Educational Endowment will support, in perpetuity, the program to recruit and educate students with a demonstrated interest in large animal medicine, surgery, and theriogenology. The endowment will be established at $10 million and will be expanded by up to fourfold as other components of the estate are settled.
“Auburn did a lot for me as far as helping me get ready for the type of career I wanted to have,” he said in an Aug. 2 press release from the college. “And, I know there are a lot of young people coming along in the future who will want to do the kinds of things I've done with cattle and horses. I hope the scholarship fund will give them a chance to focus on their studies and prepare themselves to do their best as veterinarians.”
The first round of scholarships is expected to be awarded to three first-year students: two out-of-state students and one in-state student. The program will grow by three scholarships each year, to total 12 in four years. When fully implemented, the program will award up to 48 scholarships each year. Full scholarships will be awarded to residents of Alabama or students enrolled from partner states, such as Kentucky, under the Southern Regional Education Board contract, which assists nonresident students from participating states where no public veterinary schools exist. Other out-of-state students would receive scholarships for the difference between out-of-state and in-state tuition.
Dean Calvin Johnson said, “Dr. Bartlett's transformational gift will directly address student debt load and place (students) in a financial position to succeed as practitioners in underserved rural regions of the country.”
Scholarships will be awarded to first-year students and renewed annually, dependent on academic performance, for the remainder of the four years. A similar structure will be applied to residents pursuing specialty training in large animal disciplines.
At Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, the Charles E. and Viola G. Bardsley Estate gave $7.2 million to endow a scholarship program for students. The estate gift nearly doubles the veterinary college's overall endowment, according to an Oct. 4 press release.
Scholarships will be awarded on GPA, merit, and focus areas. Dean Kent H. Hoblet will determine the number of and amount for each scholarship in the near future.
The Bardsleys were longtime animal lovers and veterinary education advocates. The late Charles Bardsley earned master's and doctoral degrees from MSU in 1950 and 1959, respectively, and had a distinguished career in the development of pesticides and related work with the Department of Agriculture. Viola taught chemistry at the college level and was a senior chemist and technical associate with Mallinckrodt Chemical Co.
They began supporting Mississippi State in 1996 with the creation of an annual academic scholarship for the veterinary college, awarded to the fourth-year student with the highest GPA. Before their deaths, the Bardsleys established 24 gift annuities that benefited students and the university. Charles died in 2003, and after Viola's death in 2015, the remainder from the annuities and a bequest through her will created the Charles E. and Viola G. Bardsley Endowed Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine.
“Because of the way the Bardsleys' bequest was structured, CVM has more than $7 million in a new endowment,” said Jimmy Kight, the veterinary college's director of development, in the release. “The earnings from the endowment will result in significant yearly support of our students.”
Cattle veterinarians honored
Dr. M. Gatz Riddell
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. M. Gatz Riddell
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. M. Gatz Riddell
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Frank Schenkels
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Frank Schenkels
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Frank Schenkels
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Greg Crosley
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Greg Crosley
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Greg Crosley
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Tom Portillo
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Tom Portillo
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Tom Portillo
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Dale Grotelueschen
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Dale Grotelueschen
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Dale Grotelueschen
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. John Davidson
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. John Davidson
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. John Davidson
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Sarel van Amstel
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Sarel van Amstel
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Sarel van Amstel
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Keith Sterner
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Keith Sterner
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Keith Sterner
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Roger Panciera
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Roger Panciera
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Roger Panciera
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Drexel Wheeler
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Drexel Wheeler
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Drexel Wheeler
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Jonathan Garber
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Jonathan Garber
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Jonathan Garber
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Ten cattle veterinarians were honored for contributions to animal health and organized veterinary medicine.
A veterinary student group and a faculty adviser also were honored, and two cattle veterinarians received awards intended to help them receive continuing education.
The awards were given in September during the American Association of Bovine Practitioners annual conference, hosted this year in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Dr. M. Gatz Riddell (Kansas State '77) of Auburn, Alabama, received the Amstutz-Williams Award, the AABP's highest honor, bestowed only when a highly qualified individual is nominated and selected, for outstanding service to the veterinary profession. Dr. Riddell has been AABP executive vice president since 2005 and the association's alternate delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates.
The award is named in honor of the distinguished service by Dr. Harold E. Amstutz, who had been the AABP secretary-treasurer and executive vice president, and Dr. Eric I. Williams, who had been editor of The Bovine Practitioner and the AABP meeting proceedings books.
Dr. Frank Schenkels (Guelph '86) of Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia, received the AABP Bovine Practitioner of the Year Award. The award, sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc., is given to veterinarians who are active in organized veterinary medicine and who have made substantial contributions to bovine medicine.
Drs. Greg Crosley (Purdue '79) of Somerset, Michigan, and Tom Portillo (Colorado State '97) of Amarillo, Texas, received the Merial Excellence in Preventive Medicine awards, which are awarded for developing outstanding preventive medicine programs. Dr. Crosley received the award for dairy practice, and Dr. Portillo received it for beef practice.
Dr. Dale Grotelueschen (Missouri '74) of Harvard, Nebraska, received the AABP Award of Excellence. The award is given to veterinarians in teaching, research, industry, or government for work that has had consistent and direct positive influences on veterinarians' daily activities in bovine practice.
Dr. John Davidson (Texas A&M '01) of Shiner, Texas, received the Zoetis Distinguished Service Award in honor of work to promote AABP goals and accomplishments that provide a model of service to bovine agriculture through organized veterinary medicine.
Dr. Sarel van Amstel (Pretoria '66) of Knoxville, Tennessee, received the Merck Animal Health Mentor of the Year Award. The award is given to AABP members who have been in veterinary medicine at least 25 years and been advisers and role models to preveterinary students, veterinary students, or both.
Drs. Keith Sterner (Michigan State '69) of Ionia, Michigan, and Roger Panciera (Oklahoma State '53) of Stillwater, Oklahoma, were inducted into the Cattle Production Veterinarian Hall of Fame. Dr. Sterner was honored for work in dairy practice, and Dr. Panciera for work in beef practice. The AABP, Academy of Veterinary Consultants, Bovine Veterinarian publication, Merck Animal Health, and Osborn Barr agency sponsor the hall of fame entries.
Dr. Drexel Wheeler (Tennessee '82) of Cornwall, Vermont, received the Dairy Quality Assurance Veterinarian of the Year award. The award from Merial and the Milk and Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Center honors veterinarians for work with cattle producers to implement quality management practices.
The AABP student chapter at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine was honored with the AABP Student Chapter Award for its activities and involvement.
Dr. Theresa Ollivett (Cornell '04), the AABP student chapter faculty representative at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, received the association's Faculty Advisor award for her activities and mentorship.
Two veterinarians also received the AgriLabs Dr. Bruce Wren Continuing Education Award, named for an AgriLabs technical services veterinarian who was committed to practical and formal continuing education for veterinarians. The $5,000 awards are given each year to two veterinarians—one each in beef and dairy practices—who have graduated from veterinary college within the past 10 years and provide plans for continuing education.
The 2016 winners are Dr. J.D. Folsom (Oklahoma State '15) of Rexburg, Idaho, who works with beef cattle, and Dr. Jonathan Garber (Pennsylvania '07) of Seymour, Wisconsin, who works with dairy cattle.
American College of Veterinary Nutrition
The American College of Veterinary Nutrition certified seven new diplomates following the certification examination it held June 6–7 in Denver. The new diplomates are as follows:
Isuru Gajanayake, Solihull, England Aarti Kathrani, Bristol, England Kayo Leblanc, Sunnyvale, California Jessica Markovich, Mesa, Arizona Rebecca Mullis, Lawrence, Kansas Renee Streeter, Liverpool, New York Susan Wynn, Sandy Springs, Georgia
Corrections
Dr. Charles E. Jameson, whose obituary was published in the Oct. 1, 2016, issue of JAVMA, on page 731, was 68 years old at the time of his death.
The article “Restrictions on medicated feeds coming to farms,” which was published in the Nov. 1, 2016, issue of JAVMA, on page 968, was inaccurate in describing the Farm Foundation, which is a nonadvocacy charity that promotes analysis, dialogue, and idea development.
South Dakota VMA
Event: Annual meeting, Aug. 17–20, Sioux Falls
Awards: Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. Edward Larson, Watertown. A 1956 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Larson is the founder of Lake Area Veterinary Clinic, a mixed animal practice in Watertown. He is known for his expertise in equine medicine and for his mentoring skills. Early in his career, Dr. Larson worked in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Distinguished Service Award: Dr. Bruce Teachout, Yankton, won this award, given in honor of an individual who has brought distinction to the veterinary profession through professional and personal achievements and by serving as an inspiration to veterinarians and their clients. A 1974 graduate of the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Teachout co-owns Animal Health Clinic in Yankton. He is a past president of the SDVMA and co-founder of the SDVMA Scholarship Foundation. Emerging Leader Award: Dr. Mark Braunschmidt, Brandon, won this award, given to a member who has graduated in the preceding 10 years and has a record of outstanding accomplishments in veterinary research, private practice, regulatory services, civic activities, or organized veterinary medicine. A 2007 graduate of the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Braunschmidt is a partner at Horizon Pet Care, a small animal practice in Brandon. Earlier, he worked at All Pet Complex in Boise, Idaho. Dr. Braunschmidt is vice president of the SDVMA, having previously served as a district representative and secretary-treasurer.
Officials: Drs. Travis White, Sioux Center, president; Michelle Jensen, Harrisburg, president-elect; Mark Braunschmidt, Brandon, vice president; Ethan Andress, Hettinger, secretary-treasurer; Christy Teets, Rapid City, immediate past president; Chris Chase, Brookings, AVMA delegate; Cindy Franklin, Yankton, AVMA alternate delegate; Angela Anderson, Sioux Falls, District 1 representative; Chanda Nilsson, Groton, District 2 representative; and Sandra Wahlert, Hot Springs, District 3 representative
Dr. Edward Larson
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Edward Larson
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Edward Larson
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Bruce Teachout
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Bruce Teachout
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Bruce Teachout
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Mark Braunschmidt
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Mark Braunschmidt
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Mark Braunschmidt
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Travis White
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Travis White
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Dr. Travis White
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 249, 10; 10.2460/javma.249.10.1108
Obituaries
AVMA member AVMA honor roll member Nonmember
Eugene S. Aby
Dr. Aby (Colorado State '50), 92, Glendive, Montana, died June 14, 2016. He practiced mixed animal medicine in Glendive for 56 years. Dr. Aby was a past president of the Montana VMA. He served in the Army's 10th Mountain Division during World War II and was awarded a Bronze Star.
Dr. Aby's three daughters and a son; 13 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren survive him. Memorials toward the Riverstone Hospice Home may be made c/o The family of Eugene Aby, 2200 N. Anderson, Glendive, MT 59330.
Janice R. Baserga
Dr. Baserga (Tufts '86), 56, Cumberland Center, Maine, died July 17, 2016. A small animal veterinarian, she practiced at Scarborough Animal Hospital in Scarborough, Maine, from 1986 until her death. Dr. Baserga bred Golden Retrievers and was a member of the Maine Golden Retriever Club.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. Jeffrey S. Milburn (Tufts '86), a small animal veterinarian at Edgewood Animal Hospital in Gorham, Maine, and two sons. Memorials in her name may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500 Rosecrans Ave. #200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, www.pancan.org, or American Cancer Society, 1 Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham, ME 04086, www.cancer.org.
Orin B. Bond Jr.
Dr. Bond (Auburn '75), 65, Fisherville, Kentucky, died June 17, 2016. He practiced small animal medicine at St. Matthews Animal Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky, for 35 years prior to retirement in 2010. Dr. Bond also farmed and raised Angus cattle in Jefferson and Spencer counties.
He is survived by his daughter, son, and granddaughter.
Memorials may be made to The Parklands of Floyds Fork, 21st Century Parks, 471 Main St., Suite 202, Louisville, KY 40202.
John W. Chittick
Dr. Chittick (Purdue '66), 73, Monticello, Iowa, died May 4, 2016. In 1968, he established Monticello Veterinary Clinic, where he practiced mixed animal medicine until retirement in 2001. Earlier, Dr. Chittick worked at Marsh Animal Hospital in Princeton, Illinois. He was a member of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, American Association of Bovine Practitioners, American Quarter Horse Association, and Iowa and Eastern Iowa VMAs, and an inductee of the Jones County Cattlemen Hall of Fame. Dr. Chittick was a past president of the Monticello School Board.
His wife, Mary; two daughters and a son; eight grandchildren and two stepgrandchildren; and one great-grandchild survive him. Dr. Chittick's brother, Dr. Richard Chittick (Purdue '69), is a veterinarian in Tipton, Iowa.
Memorials may be made to United Church of Monticello, 123 N. Chestnut St., Monticello, IA 52310, or Multiple Myeloma Cancer Research (with checks made payable to Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation), 383 Main Ave. 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851.
Walter C. Cottingham
Dr. Cottingham (Georgia '61), 83, Kingstree, South Carolina, died July 25, 2016. A mixed animal veterinarian, he was the founder of Cottingham Veterinary Hospital in Kingstree. Dr. Cottingham was a past president of the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians and Pee Dee VMA and a past member of the South Carolina Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. In 1984, he began a three-year term on the Secretary's Advisory Committee for Foreign Animal and Poultry Diseases of the Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. That same year, Dr. Cottingham was named South Carolina Veterinarian of the Year, and, in 2010, he was honored as Distinguished Veterinarian. He served in the Army from 1954–1956.
Dr. Cottingham's wife, Beth, survives him. Memorials may be made to Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N. Academy St., Kingstree, SC 29556; Williamsburg Regional Hospital Foundation, P.O. Drawer 568, Kingstree, SC 29556; or Tidelands Community Hospice, 2591 N. Fraser St., Georgetown, SC 29440.
Theodore E. Franklin
Dr. Franklin (Texas A&M '41), 98, Bryan, Texas, died May 26, 2016. He spent most of his career with the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences' Department of Veterinary Pathobiology and Texas Agricultural Experiment Station's Veterinary Division. During that time, Dr. Franklin conducted extensive research and published several articles on anaplasmosis.
In later years, he worked at the California Animal Health & Food Safety Laboratory in San Bernadino, retiring in 1986. During his career, Dr. Franklin also led two U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization projects in the Dominican Republic and Tanzania.
He is survived by a daughter and two sons, 10 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Dr. Franklin's son and daughter-in-law, Drs. John E. Franklin (Texas A&M '78), and Sharon B. Franklin (Virginia-Maryland '85), are veterinarians in Lynchburg, Virginia. Memorials may be made to Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX 77843.
Geoffrey Goldworm
Dr. Goldworm (Pennsylvania '75), 68, Jupiter, Florida, died April 17, 2016. A small animal veterinarian, he owned an emergency veterinary practice in Clementon, New Jersey. Dr. Goldworm was a member of the American Animal Hospital Association. His wife, Sandy, and two sons survive him. Memorials toward the Dr. Chatchada Karanes Transplant Unit may be made to City of Hope Hospital, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010.
Lani A. Herrli
Dr. Herrli (Ohio State '91), 54, London, Ohio, died Aug. 22, 2016. A small animal veterinarian, she most recently practiced at Healthy Pets of Rome Hilliard in Hilliard, Ohio. Dr. Herrli began her career as a member of the veterinary faculty at Mississippi State University. She subsequently practiced small animal medicine for a while in Pittsburgh before joining the faculty of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she both taught and worked at the veterinary medical center. While there, Dr. Herrli developed an interest in avian and exotic animal medicine. She later worked part time at Norton Road Veterinary Hospital in Galloway, Ohio.
Dr. Herrli was an avid equestrian, winning several awards in the sport. Her husband, Tom, and two sons survive her.
Frank L. Johnson
Dr. Johnson (Ohio State '52), 88, Dayton, Ohio, died Sept. 5, 2016. A small animal veterinarian, he practiced at the Blue Ash Animal Hospital in Cincinnati prior to retirement. Dr. Johnson was a veteran of the Navy. He is survived by his wife, Pat; three sons and a daughter; 11 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to Ohio's Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45420.
Howard H. Krueger
Dr. Krueger (Minnesota '55), 85, Evansville, Wisconsin, died June 1, 2016. A mixed animal veterinarian, he co-founded Evansville Veterinary Service with his brother, Dr. E.W. Krueger (Guelph '39). Early in his career, Dr. Krueger practiced in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. A past president of the Wisconsin VMA, he received a Meritorious Service Award in 1988 and was named Veterinarian of the Year in 1990. Dr. Krueger served on the Evansville School Board and was a member of the Lions Club.
His three children, four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren survive him. Dr. Krueger's daughter, Dr. Kaye H. Krueger (Minnesota '79), practices small animal medicine in Hartland, Wisconsin. Memorials may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, 312 S. First St., Evansville, WI 53536.
John H. Lester
Dr. Lester (Auburn '62), 79, Enterprise, Alabama, died July 18, 2016. He practiced small animal medicine in Enterprise for 47 years. During that time, Dr. Lester was a partner at Miller and Lester, and, later, at what is now known as Animal Health Center. He was a past member of the Alabama VMA board of directors. Active in the community, Dr. Lester was charter president of the Enterprise City Council; served on the Alabama Department of Environmental Management board, chairing the board for 18 years; and was a past president of the Enterprise Chamber of Commerce. In 1978, he was named Enterprise Man of the Year.
Dr. Lester served in the Air Force Reserve. He is survived by his wife, Jane; a daughter and a son; and three grandchildren.
Christopher A. Pittman
Dr. Pittman (Colorado State '10), 42, Las Vegas, died June 22, 2016. He practiced small animal medicine in Las Vegas. Dr. Pittman is survived by his parents and two sisters.
Burton Saunders
Dr. Saunders (Cornell '55), 88, Nyack, New York, died April 6, 2016. He was the founder of Spring Valley Animal Hospital, a small animal practice in Monsey, New York. A past president of the Westchester/Rockland VMA and Rockland County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Dr. Saunders served as treasurer of the New York State VMS for 18 years, also serving on the society's ethics committee.
In 1983, the NYSVMS honored Dr. Saunders with a Merit Award, and, in 1995, he received an NYSVMS Distinguished Life Service Award. Dr. Saunders was a member of the Flying Veterinarians Association and Coast Guard Auxiliary, trained local 4-H groups in animal care and veterinary medicine, and was active with Rotary International and the Boy Scouts. He was an Army veteran of World War II.
Dr. Saunders is survived by his wife, Lucy; two daughters; and two grandchildren. One daughter, Dr. Maureen Saunders (Cornell '87), owns Spring Valley Animal Hospital. Memorials may be made to the Saunders/Schlossberg Family Scholarship, Cornell University, Office of Public Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853.
Charles L. Stinchcomb
Dr. Stinchcomb (Kansas State '75), 70, Russell, Kansas, died Aug. 15, 2016. He owned Town & Country Animal Hospital in Russell, where he practiced mixed animal medicine for 32 years prior to retirement. A past president of the Kansas VMA, Dr. Stinchcomb was appointed to the Kansas Board of Veterinary Examiners in 1998. He was a past Kansas Veterinarian of the Year and received the KVMA Lifetime Service Award in 2014.
Dr. Stinchcomb served in the Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel. He received a Bronze Star for his service. Dr. Stinchcomb was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.
He helped establish the Sunrise Kiwanis Club, was a member of the Russell County Board of Education, wrote several children's books, and was active with the Boy Scouts. Dr. Stinchcomb's wife, Barbara; a daughter and a son; and four grandchildren survive him. Memorials may be made to the Dr. Charles and Barbara Stinchcomb Memorial Scholarship Fund, Russell County Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 172, 507 N. Main, Russell, KS 67665.
