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Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
The mission of JAVMA is to advance and promote the science and art of veterinary medicine while upholding world-class standards in peer-reviewed veterinary medical scientific publications.
Volume 260 (2022): Issue 2 (Jan 2022)
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Editorial
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President's Column
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News
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Views
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Letters to the Editor
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Veterinary Medicine Today
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What Is Your Diagnosis?
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Theriogenology Question of the Month
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Pathology in Practice
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Exploring the Bond
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Correction
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Scientific Reports
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Small Animals
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Ruminants
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Special Report
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Select a volume below to get started. Requests for the availability of art on JAVMA covers should be directed to Nick DeLuca at NDeLuca@avma.org.
January 15, 2022
Vol. 260, No. S1
“Caudal Thoracic Paravertebral Block” (8.375 in x 5.5 in; Procreate and Adobe Photoshop) was created by Linden Pederson in 2021.
Ms. Pederson completed bachelor's degrees in both Scientific Illustration and Entomology from the University of Georgie and a master's degree in Medical Illustration from Augusta University. She is currently working to complete a Certificate in Comparative Medical Illustration at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Her goals is “to create impactful imagery that educates others and makes scientific concepts tangible and accessible to everyone.” Copyright, University of Georgia.
January 15, 2022
Vol. 260, No. 2
“Attitude” (9 in x 12 in; colored pencil) was created by McKenzi Davison in 2017.
Raised in Big Piney, Wyoming,Ms. Davison is a self-taught artist with a passion for the outdoors, animals, and athletics. A recent graduate from the University of Wyoming, earning a degree in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Ms. Davison will begin veterinary school in the fall of 2022. As an undergrad, she competed in cross country and track and worked at the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory. The variety of textures and colors of the rooster inspired the artwork.
January 1, 2022
Vol. 260, No. 1
“Precious” (7 in x 9 in; colored pencil) was created by Jane Wasson in 2013.
Born in Somerset, Pa, Ms. Wasson is a self-taught artist who has enjoyed drawing since childhood. Most of her artwork is done in colored pencil, but she also enjoys working with acrylics, oils, and watercolors. The artwork was created as a gift to her sister to memorialize her beloved pet. Ms. Wasson’s niece, Dr. Tracy Farone, is a practicing veterinarian and teaches biology at Grove City College. Ms. Wasson currently resides in Friedens, Pa.
December 15, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 12
“Double Dutch” (24 in x 24 in; acrylic on canvas) was created by Laura K. Carey in 2015.
Born in Ontario, Canada, Ms. Carey explores various mediums in her work—glass, sculpture, jewelry, and textiles—but her primary interest is in painting animals. She is a self-taught artist, honing her skills since an early age. As a dairy farmer, her art is an extension of what she loves—animals. She specifically enjoys painting cows, and her work is beloved by collectors throughout the world. As an artist, she enjoys capturing an animal’s personality and bringing them to life.
December 1, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 11
“Ice Bear” (30 in x 30 in; acrylic on canvas) was created by Dr. Ken Gorczyca in 2012.
Born in Philadelphia, Dr. Gorczyca graduated from the University of California, Davis and helped establish Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) and the Lesbian and Gay Veterinary Medical Association (now Pride Veterinary Medical Community). In 2010, he received the Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year award for his human-animal bond advocacy during the AIDS pandemic. Dr. Gorczyca was introduced to painting by his maternal grandfather, sparking a lifelong passion. He has studied at the San Francisco Art Institute and UC Berkeley Extension and currently resides in San Francisco.
November 15, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 10
“Peanut and Daisy” (11 in x 14 in; colored pencil) was created by Dr. Alison Vancouver in 2016.
Born in Virginia, Dr. Vancouver graduated from Western University of Health Sciences and is a small-animal veterinarian. Art has been a lifelong hobby, and she began working on pet portraits while in veterinary school. The artwork was inspired by her friend’s horses that they enjoyed riding together in their youth. Dr. Vancouver currently resides in Chelsea, Mich.
November 1, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 9
“Three Little Pigs” (8 in x 12 in; acrylic) was created by Wanda Mumm in 1998. Raised on an Iowa farm, she has always loved animals.
Ms. Mumm has won numerous awards exhibiting at the national show level. Her art has been featured in magazines, on television, and is licensed all over the world. She’s passionate about art instruction. She is the Director of Art Education for the Susan K. Black Foundation and Montana Art Workshops and is currently the Director of the Western Art Academy curriculum at Schreiner University. She resides in Eureka, Mont.
October 15, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 8
Our 11 District Directors representative, along with the President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, Vice President, and Treasurer, comprise our AVMA Board of Directors. District Directors serve a 6-year term on the Board and are elected by AVMA members residing in each of the 11 geographic districts defined in the Bylaws. Two new District Directors were recently elected. A listing of the District Directors can be found on the AVMA website at: https://www.avma.org/membership/ board-directors-and-avma-officers.
October 1, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 7
“The Boys” (12 in x 12 in; oil) was created by Clare Stratton in 2020. The piece was commissioned by Drs. Randy J. Boudrieau and Leslie L. Williams and depicts Rémy and Mr. Peabody as they keep watch.
After graduating from The University of Texas and working in business marketing, Ms. Stratton decided to pursue her true passion, painting. She has been following this calling for more than 20 years. Her subject matters include still life, landscapes, and animals—her favorite, as she has had a lifelong love of animals. She currently resides in Austin, TX with her husband and their dog Molly.
September 15, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 6
At this year's House of Delegates meeting, incoming AVMA president José V. Arce shared his goals for the 2021-2022 Association year. Dr. Lori M. Teller was chosen as the 2022-2023 President-Elect. The AVMA Board of Directors elected Dr. Karen M. Bradley as chair and Dr. Ronald E. Gill as vice chair for the 2022-2023 Association year. Drs. Janet D. Donlin and David E. Granstrom will continue as the executive vice president and assistant executive vice president, respectively, for 2021-2022.
Coverage of the 2021 Annual Session of the AVMA House of Delegates and AVMA Virtual Convention 2021 begins with the September 15, 2021 issue and continues through the October 15, 2021, issue.
September 1, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 5
"Looking Back" (14 in x 11 in; soft pastels on archival sanded paper) was created by Dr. Alec Hall in 2020.
Born in Chelsea, Mass, he graduated from Michigan State Veterinary School and worked in private practice, academia, and research. Dr. Hall had art training at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, apprenticed under artist Ken Freed, and attended workshops at Beartooth School of Wildlife Art in Bozeman, Mont. Equids, especially burros and draft horses, have become favorite subjects for his paintings. He currently resides in Hendersonville, NC, with his wife Nelia and is a Signature Member of the Appalachian Pastel Society.
August 15, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 4
"Waiting for the Tortoise" (11 in x 14 in; soft pastel) was created by Roseanne Crowell in 2020.
Born in New York, Ms. Crowell is a self-taught artist working primarily in soft pastels. The artwork was a commissioned piece, as are many of her wildlife and pet portraits. She paints from reference photos with a focus on using realistic details—capturing the personality of the subject—to help bring the painting to life. She currently resides and paints in Noblesville, Ind.
August 1, 2021
Vol. 259, No. 3
"The Stylized Cat" (9" H x 3 ½" W x 2 ½" D, butternut wood carving) was created by Dr. Gerald M. Rosen in 2019.
Dr. Rosen passed away in December 2020. Born in Milwaukee, Wisc, he graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Veterinary Medicine in 1957 and established Park Pet Hospital in Milwaukee, where he practiced until his retirement in 2002. Dr. Rosen had no formal art education, but enjoyed working on pencil drawings, watercolors, and garden art—taking up wood carving late in life. He was married for 65 years and had four children. His son, David, is a veterinarian.
"Trio of Lion Fish" (10 in x 20 in; gourd sculpture on a wire-epoxy base) was created by Margaret Streams in 2018.
Mrs. Streams is a self-taught artist with a degree in Large Animal Production from Penn State University. After moving to New Mexico, she changed her focus from realistic fish carvings to gourd art, garnering numerous awards. The artwork was inspired by her "love of the natural world and the challenge of trying to make gourds into something else." She assists her husband, Dr. Dale C. Streams in his practice, Mimbres Valley Mobile Veterinary Services.
"Seventh Inning Stretch" (9 in x 12 in; acrylic) was created by Kimberly Kelly Santini in 2013.
Born in Wilmington, Del, Ms. Santini began her painting career more than 20 years ago. In 2006, she began the daily painting project www.PaintingaDogaDay.com, which she continued for 12 years. Inspired by life experiences, the artwork illustrates the joy and exuberance dogs bring to the game. Ms. Santini was honored as the official artist of the 2015 Kentucky Derby, has worked with the American Kennel Club, and has paintings in public and private collections around the world. She currently resides in Lake Orion, Mich.
June 15, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 12
"Who Cooks for You?" (6.875 in x 10 in; watercolors) was created by Celia Clark in 2018.
Raised on a dairy farm in Delhi, NY, Ms. Clark received her BFA and MFA degrees from Syracuse University. She is a member of the American Watercolor Society, the National Watercolor Society, and the Watercolor U.S.A. Honor Society, and she exhibits nationally— garnering over 100 awards. The artwork was inspired by an encounter with a neighborly owl. Ms. Clark lives in Oneonta, NY. Her daughter Heidi Heinzerling is a large animal veterinarian, and her niece Andrea Van Buskirk is a small animal veterinarian.
"Della Rocco Sheep" (15 in x 18.75 in; watercolors) was created by Dr. Robert E. Lynk in 2013.
Dr. Lynk passed away in April 2021. Born in Sharon Springs, NY, he graduated from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1961 and joined the Delmar Animal Hospital, remaining there his entire career. Dr. Lynk began painting in 1994. His influences were Karen Rosasco, Sherry Holmes, and Betsy Apgar Smith, and his artwork has been exhibited throughout the Albany Capitol Region. This painting captures springtime life on an upstate New York farm and was an award-winning submission at the Altamont County Fair.
"Deerfield's Finest" (9 in x 12 in; watercolors) was created by Sue McCord Helwig in 2015.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mrs. McCord Helwig is a self-taught artist and paints largely for her own enjoyment. Her interest in painting birds was inspired by seeing the John James Audubon Exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York. Her daughter-inlaw, Lara Helwig, is a veterinarian working at Brown University. The artwork was inspired by a visit to the poultry barn at the Deerfield, NH fair. Mrs. McCord Helwig is retired and lives with her husband in Concord, NH.
"Stella" (11 in x 14 in; graphite pencil on Bristol board) was created by Gayle Schaeffer in 2019.
Born in New York City, Mrs. Schaeffer received a bachelor's degree from Northwestern University and a master's degree in art therapy from George Washington University; she worked as an art therapist in Washington, DC area hospitals. A passion for drawing and portraiture led her to study under artists Robert Liberace and Ken Marlowe. The artwork, commissioned by Dr. David and Marinda Rives, depicts a rescued Golden Retriever. Mrs. Shaeffer currently lives in Raleigh, NC and is married to Jon Schaeffer, DVM, PhD.
April 15, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 8
"The Old Jersey" (24 in x 18 in; oil on board) was created by Trent Gudmundsen in 2016.
Mr. Gudmundsen is a primarily self-taught artist and was raised in Vernal, Utah, on a small hobby farm. He's been influenced by European and Russian impressionists and has been a full-time artist since 2005. Mr. Gudmundsen has always been drawn to the nostalgia of the simple life. The artwork depicts Buttercup—a Jersey cow that is one of many furry or feathered friends living on the family’s seven acres of land alongside their 130-year-old refurbished farmhouse in Preston, Idaho.
"Red Footed Honeycreeper" (12 in x 12 in; oil on canvas) was created by Dr. Ken Slossberg in 2015.
Dr. Slossberg studied at the Art Academy of San Diego. He has been painting for over 20 years and works mostly from photographs taken during his travels and everyday life. Born in Hartford, Conn, Dr. Slossberg graduated from the Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine and currently practices at the Wrigleyville Veterinary Center in Chicago. He has been teaching oil painting for 5 years and continues to create artwork in his own distinct representational style of photorealism at his studio, "Life Painted."
March 15, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 6
"Pasture Pals" (10 in x 13 in; watercolors) was created by Dr. John M. Florence in 2019.
Dr. Florence is a self-taught artist and works primarily in watercolors. He began painting in college and recently has devoted more time to his craft. The artwork was inspired by watching two of his horses accepting a new arrival. Dr. Florence realized a childhood goal by becoming a veterinarian. He currently practices small-animal medicine at Shively Animal Clinic in Louisville. Dr. Florence enjoys playing music and is active in his church music program. He currently resides in Corydon, Ind, with his wife Vickie.
"Cats Knead a Friend" (24 in x 36 in; acrylic mixed media) was created by Dr. Laura M. Boggs in 2018.
Dr. Boggs is a self-taught artist. She graduated from St. George's University in 2012 and works as a traveling relief veterinarian. She creates her own schedule, fostering a balanced lifestyle of work and art. Dr. Boggs feels that painting allows her to reach a meditative state when completely immersed in blending the right colors on a canvas. The artwork was inspired by her dog and cat snuggling up for a nap. She currently resides in Rutherfordton, NC.
February 15, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 4
"Llama Thoughts" (10 in x 12 in; watercolor) was created by Rachel Parker in 2013.
Ms. Parker is a self-taught artist. Born in Lexington, KY, she's been painting with watercolors for over 20 years. What started as a hobby has become her full-time profession. She teaches other painters online and sells her work internationally. Ms. Parker currently resides in Columbia, SC.
February 1, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 3
"In Memory of Otis" (16 in x 20 in; watercolor) was created by Dr. Maria Reichert in 2019.
Dr. Reichert is a self-taught artist and graduated from The Ohio State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. The artwork was a commissioned piece. Otis was described as his owner’s best friend and constant companion; the kids all loved him, and he loved them. Dr. Reichert currently lives in Grove City, Ohio with her husband—an equine veterinarian. Now retired, she has two grown children, a rescued Aussie-Border Collie, and a Quarter Horse. She enjoys working on pet portraits.
January 15, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 2
"Budgie 41" (8 in x 5 in; watercolor) was created by Katya Minkina in 2017.
Ms. Minkina was born in Moscow, Russia where she received extensive art training throughout her childhood. Painting animals has become a primary focus of her art in recent years. She feels “a strong connection to animals and painting their portraits allows [her] to spend some slow contemplative time in their company.” The artwork was created as part of a series to honor her childhood bond to these curious, cheerful birds. Ms. Minkina currently resides in Nampa, Idaho.
January 1, 2021
Vol. 258, No. 1
"Power Trip" (60 in x 72 in; acrylic on canvas) was created by Anni Crouter in 2017.
Ms. Crouter studied at the Flint Institute of Arts and was mentored by James Ames. She is a member of the Society of Animal Artists, The American Watercolor Society, Artists for Conservation, and the Northwest Watercolor Society, and is an Art Renewal Center Associate Living Master. Horses are a favorite subject for her. Her husband—Dr. Nathan Boggs, father—Dr. John Crouter, and father in-law—Dr. Greg Boggs, are all veterinarians. Ms. Crouter currently lives in Flint, Mich and teaches at the Flint Institute of Arts.
December 15, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 12
"Three Piggies" (12 in x 16 in; pastel) was created by Sandy Lindblad in 2019.
Ms. Lindblad studied at the Chicago Academy of the Arts and the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Her mother instilled a love of animals at an early age, and that interest has grown into a passion for "bringing pets and animals alive in paintings using creative color in an impressionistic manner." She is a signature member of the Pastel Society of the West Coast. Currently, she lives and operates Lindblad Studios in Nevada City, California and exhibits her artwork in local galleries.
December 1, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 11
"Three Amigos—Poseidon, Zeus and Hades" (12 in x 16 in; acrylic paint on canvas) was created by Rebecca Wang in 2020 as a commissioned pet portrait.
Ms. Wang is a self-taught artist, with influences in contemporary and classical art. Her love and appreciation for animals helps her to create expressive portraits using vibrant colors, and she is a licensed veterinary technician who has been working in the field since 1997. Her objective is to "allow the individual personality and spirt of each animal to shine through." Ms. Wang currently resides in Cedar Park, Tex.
November 15, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 10
"Just Ducky 2" (20 in x 16 in; acrylic paint on canvas) was created by Vivian Sathre in 2007. Her love of animals makes them one of her favorite subjects to paint. The artwork is from a series of paintings titled "Quack Grass," and it is part of a private collection.
Mrs. Sathre is a self-taught artist. Before finding her passion for painting, she wrote children's books in which she wrote from a dog's point of view. Mrs. Sathre currently resides in Tucson, Ariz with her husband and their two cats. Her sister-in-law, Dr. Karla Sathre, lives in Wisconsin.
November 1, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 9
"Australian Shepherd Agility" (4.5 in x 5 in; watercolor) was created by David J. Rogers in 2005. His love of dogs and the boundless energy of the Australian Shepherd inspired the artwork.
Mr. Rogers is self-taught, and art has influenced his life since early childhood. His philosophy is to approach each project without preconceived notions, and he has developed a vibrant and realistic style by doing what comes naturally. Mr. Rogers feels that the value of art "is the emotional connection it has with the viewer" and he hopes his work "will provide a peaceful escape for the soul." He currently resides in Morro Bay, California.
October 15, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 8
The 11 District Directors are the representatives of the AVMA voting members and, along with the President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, Vice President, and Treasurer, make up the AVMA Board of Directors. District Directors serve a 6-year term on the Board and are elected by AVMA members residing in each of the 11 geographic districts defined in the Bylaws. Two new District Directors were recently elected. A listing of the District Directors can be found on the AVMA website.
October 1, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 7
"Beautiful Doodle Zoie" (12 in x 16 in; acrylic on canvas) was created by Nancy Houston in 2020. Ms. Houston has been a portrait artist for over 15 years, and the painting was a commissioned piece.
Ms. Houston studied under artist Dennis Blalock and has been painting for over 35 years. She has worked as a surgical assistant for the past 20 years, and currently works for the Catoctin Veterinary Clinic in Thurmont, MD. Ms. Houston feels that "pet portraiture is a perfect complement to the veterinary industry." The artwork currently resides in the private collection of James K. Drew of Dryden, NY.
September 15, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 6
"Pasture Pals" (10 in x 13 in; watercolors) was created by Dr. John M. Florence in 2019.
At this year's AVMA House of Delegates virtual meeting, incoming AVMA president Douglas D. Kratt shared his goals for the 2020–2021 Association year. Also, Dr. José V. Arce was chosen as the 2020–2021 President-Elect, and Dr. Sandra A. Faeh was chosen as the 2020–2022 Vice President. The AVMA Board of Directors elected Dr. Lori M. Teller as chair and Dr. Karen M. Bradley as vice chair for the 2020–2021 Association year. Previously the board had elected Drs. Janet D. Donlin and David E. Granstrom as the executive vice president and assistant executive vice president, respectively, for 2020–2021.
Coverage of the 2020 annual session of the AVMA House of Delegates and AVMA Virtual Convention 2020, begins with the September 15, 2020, issue and continues through the October 15, 2020, issue.
September 1, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 5
"Curly Sue" (11 in x 15 in; watercolor) was created by Laura Owart, DVM, in 2020. Based on a character in a children's book she is penning, the painting was inspired by a photograph taken by Trena Alvarez, a veterinary technician.
Dr. Owart has little formal art education but learned alongside her mother, Patricia Venema—an accomplished artist. Upon graduation, Dr. Owart worked with her father, George Venema, DVM, at Bothell Pet Hospital in Bothell, Wash and later owned a practice in Quincy, Wash. Currently, she lives in Schlierstadt, Germany and provides relief work when visiting the US.
August 15, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 4
"Milo" (6 in x 6 in; graphite pencil) was created by Grace DeHoogh in 2014. She developed a love of animals while accompanying her father, Dr. Willem DeHoogh, on veterinary calls during her youth. As she cultivated an interest in drawing in high school, animals became her favorite subject matter. The inspiration of this piece comes from a stray cat her family adopted when she was young.
Ms. DeHoogh is a self-taught artist. Born and raised in southeast Minnesota, she works as a registered nurse and continues to enjoy drawing. Dr. DeHoogh operates WD Professional Services in Adams, Minn.
August 1, 2020
Vol. 257, No. 3
"Where Two or More Are Gathered" (24 in x 18 in; acrylic on canvas) was created by Dr. Dara Askew Johns in 2019. Her inspiration came from images of the abundant wildlife along Florida’s Emerald Coast, captured by nature photographer Walt Spence.
Dr. Askew Johns was born in Anniston, AL and received her DVM from Auburn University in 1987. She is a self-taught artist and has spent 32 years practicing small animal medicine in the Florida panhandle. Dr. Askew Johns recently retired from full-time practice, and she now spends her time painting and doing relief work.
"Feeding Koi" (8 in x 10 in; pastel) was created by Dr. John Plishka in 2019. His inspiration came from the flurry of activity that resulted upon his arrival at a koi pond with food.
Dr. Plishka was born in Chicago and received his DVM from the University of Illinois in 1993. He is a self-taught artist, a signature member of the Society of Animal Artists, and a juried member of the American Academy of Equine Art. After working 25 years in clinical veterinary practice, Dr. Plishka transitioned into education, currently instructing courses at Gateway Technical College in Elkhorn, Wis.
"Herd" (36 in x 48 in; oil on canvas) was created by Julie Anna Freund in 2012. The artwork is part of a three-work exploration of the horses’ everyday needs: sight, movement, and socialization.
Ms. Freund was born in Orange County, NY. An alumna of the Savannah College of Art and Design, Julie graduated with a BFA in Painting, with minors in Equestrian Studies and Art History. An administrative assistant at Wisconsin Equine Clinic and Hospital in Oconomowoc, Wis, she enjoys riding horses and creating freelance artwork in her free time.
June 15, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 12
"All in Their Woollies" (22 in x 29 in; watercolor, archival acrylic varnish) was created by Ann Balch. The artwork "speaks to the comfort of being together."
Ms. Balch is a self-taught artist, and she has enjoyed a professional art practice for over 25 years. During her early career, she was juried into the Canadian Society of Painters in Water Colour and the Canadian Society of Artists. Her paintings are held in private collections in the US and Canada. She resides in Moncton, a city in southeastern New Brunswick, Canada.
"Harry Takes a Sniff" (10 in x 10 in; acrylic paint on gallery wrapped canvas) was created by Deborah Cullen in 2011. It was a gift to a friend's daughter in memory of her beloved guinea pig.
Ms. Cullen is a qualified art teacher in pursuance of her own art practice. She began her career painting portraits of rescue dogs she was fostering. That led her to develop her own website, which has grown into a thriving business of animal portraiture. She resides in Dunsborough, a coastal town in the South West region of Western Australia.
Dr. E. Kathryn Meyer created "Life is Good" (11 in by 14 in; oil paint on canvas) in 2018. The piece was inspired by a photograph of her 9-year-old Labrador Retriever and her son’s Yorkshire Terrier puppy basking in the sun together.
Dr. Meyer graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1986 and is self-taught in art. She owns and practices at the Veterinary Behavior Clinic in Gaithersburg, Md, and is a part-time associate in hospice and end-of-life care at Solace Veterinary Services in Silver Spring, Md.
"The Bee" (11 in by 14 in; oil on canvas panel) was created by Brett Mistak in 2019. It was a gift to a client of his who is a veterinarian.
Mr. Mistak received his Bachelor of Fine Arts with a focus on illustration from Carson- Newman University in Jefferson City, Tenn, in 2000. He works as a Field Sales Representative for Covetrus and has previously worked as a scuba instructor and dog mushing guide. He resides in Maryville, Tenn.
April 15, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 8
"Blues Singer" (16 in by 20 in; oil on board) was painted by Dave Merrill. It was inspired by a blue jay preparing its nest in early spring, despite the remnants of a lingering winter.
Mr. Merrill was born in Payson, Utah, and grew up in a family with a rich artistic heritage. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Brigham Young University, and his work was featured in various galleries throughout his life. He passed away in 2017, but his vibrant paintings continue to beautify the world he left behind.
Dr. Xenia Zawadzkas created "Henry" (11 in by 14 in; acrylic paint on canvas) in 2018. The piece, inspired by her cousin's cat, was commissioned by her aunt as a wedding gift for its owner.
Dr. Zawadzkas graduated from the Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. She works as a general practitioner at Sumner Veterinary Hospital. In her spare time, she enjoys painting pet portraits, teaching art at her daughters' school, knitting, baking, and gardening. She resides in Sumner, Wash, with her husband, two daughters, five chickens, and three cats.
March 15, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 6
Dr. Beau Whitaker created "Morning Light" (16 in by 12 in; graphite and colored pencil on clayboard) in 2012. The piece was inspired by photographs that his wife, Ashley, took of a beautiful mare named Cookie.
Dr. Whitaker grew up on a family farm in Tennessee. He received his bachelor's degree in Animal Science from Oklahoma State University and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Texas A&M University. He is a certified equine rehabilitation practitioner and practices at Brazos Valley Equine Hospital. He resides in Salado, Tex.
This issue's cover artist, Laura Airey Le, created "Pastel Highway" (9 in by 12 in; colored pencil on paper) in 2016. The piece was inspired by the beautiful unique morph of a ball python.
Ms. Le was born in Colorado and is a graduate of Red Rocks Community College. She works as a dental technician and spends every bit of free time she has creating art; she is constantly influenced and inspired by nature. She resides in Lakewood, Colo.
February 15, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 4
"Max and Ginger" (11 in by 14 in; watercolor on paper), was painted by Kelly Fordham in 2017. It was a commissioned piece given as a gift to the dogs' owners.
Ms. Fordham majored in art at University of California–Santa Cruz. She has worked as the hospital manager at Flagler Animal Hospital in Flagler Beach, Fla, for 18 years. She donates a portion of the proceeds for her art to Canine Companions for Independence. She resides in Ormond Beach, Fla, with her Labrador Retriever, Woody.
February 1, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 3
"On The Prowl" (12 in by 16 in; colored pencil and acrylic paint on archival paper) was created by Carla Kurt. The piece was based on a photograph she accessed on Pixabay; she was inspired by her love for all animals and her appreciation of wildlife in their natural habitats.
Ms. Kurt has bachelor's degrees in art and computer graphics. She began to love nature while growing up on a farm in Iowa, surrounded by cornfields and cattle. Her art appears in private collections across the United States and internationally. She resides in Northern Illinois.
January 15, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 2
CJ Brown created "Shorthorns in Illinois" (20 in by 20 in; watercolor paint on watercolor board) in 2009. The piece was originally created for a national show of the American Junior Shorthorn Association.
Ms. Brown has an art degree from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. She grew up in rural Illinois, where she developed a deep passion for the people, animals, and landscape. She is a leading livestock illustrator in the beef industry and in 2008 was inducted into the Honorary Angus Foundation. She resides on her family farm in Lindenwood, Ill.
January 1, 2020
Vol. 256, No. 1
This issue's cover art, "Auodad" (35 in by 44 in; watercolor on paper), was painted by Dr. M. Scott Echols in 2003. It was inspired by a calm, confident Barbary sheep in nature.
Dr. Echols is a practicing boardcertified avian specialist at Echols Veterinary Service, a researcher, and an adjunct professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. His artwork focuses on animals in natural settings and has been featured in multiple magazines and in galleries spanning numerous countries. He resides in Salt Lake City, Utah.
December 15, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 12
This issue's cover art, "Duncan" (9 in by 12 in; acrylic on canvas), was created by Joel Reimnitz. It was inspired by his daughter's friendly and curious black-eyed white ferret.
Mr. Reimnitz is mainly selftaught in art and has always found sketching to be a great way to remember things in detail and to be grounded in the present moment. He practiced anesthesiology for 34 years in San Jose, Calif. His daughter, Dr. Lauren von Stade, is a practicing veterinarian in Fort Collins, Colo, and her husband, Dr. Devin von Stade, is a veterinary resident at Colorado State University.
December 1, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 11
This issue's cover art, titled "Gussie" (21 in by 15 in; pastel drawing on paper), was created by Dr. Catherine Williams in 2015. The piece was inspired by her long-haired tabby cat.
Dr. Williams graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1979 and has taken many art courses at various universities. She is the owner of and sole practitioner at Mahomet Animal Hospital in Mahomet, Ill. She has been married to Dr. David Williams, a veterinary internist, for 38 years, and they are expecting their first grandchild.
November 15, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 10
"Young Peregrines" (25.75 in by 19.75 in; hand-colored lithograph) was created by Tony Angell. The piece was inspired by the calmness and youth of a pair of resting peregrine falcons.
Mr. Angell is self-taught in art. He has illustrated and coauthored many books, including most recently "The House of Owls," which reached The New York Times Best Sellers list. His artwork can be found in many public collections including the Tacoma Art Museum, Seattle Art Museum, and Seattle Aquarium. His cousin, Dr. Jenaay Brown, has practiced veterinary medicine for 40 years.
November 1, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 9
Johanne Mangi painted "Windblown Charlie" (14 in by 18 in; oil on linen) in 2016. The dog depicted in the piece was a live model for a workshop she taught.
Ms. Mangi has been drawing all her life; in the last 10 years, she has expanded her focus to painting and teaching. Her influences include 19th- and early 20th–century British animal artists as well as her mentors, Sherrie McGraw and David Leffel. She is a member of many painting groups, including The Putney Painters, established by Richard Schmid. She resides in North Haven, Conn, with her many dogs.
October 15, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 8
The 11 District Directors are the representatives of the AVMA voting members and, along with the President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, Vice President, and Treasurer, make up the AVMA Board of Directors. District Directors serve a 6-year term on the Board and are elected by AVMA members residing in each of the 11 geographic districts defined in the Bylaws. Two new District Directors were recently elected. A listing of the District Directors can be found on the AVMA website.
October 1, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 7
Dr. Julia Steinke created "American Bullfrog" (24 in by 24 in; oil paint on canvas) in 2014. The piece was inspired by a photo she took while kayaking outside of Boulder Junction, Wis.
Dr. Steinke graduated from the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences in 2015. She is an associate practitioner at Banfield Pet Hospital in Tucson, Ariz. She enjoys painting with watercolor and oil paints on her days off and is a member of the Southern Arizona Watercolor Guild. She lives with her supportive husband, Jonathon Cox, in Vail, Ariz.
September 15, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 6
At this year's AVMA House of Delegates regular annual session, incoming AVMA president Dr. John A. Howe shared his goals for the 2019-2020 Association year. Also, Dr. Douglas D. Kratt was chosen as the 2019-2020 president-elect. The AVMA Board of Directors elected Dr. Rena K. Carlson as chair and Dr. Lori M. Teller as vice chair for the 2019-2020 Association year. Previously the board had elected Drs. Janet D. Donlin and David E. Granstrom as the executive vice president and assistant executive vice president, respectively, for 2019-2020.
Coverage of the 2019 annual session of the AVMA House of Delegates and AVMA Convention 2019, held in Washington, DC, begins with the September 15 issue and continues through the November 1 issue.
September 1, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 5
Donna Roper Doyle painted "Sunset" (24 in by 30 in; oil paint on stretched canvas) in 2017. The piece was inspired by the peace and tranquility of a family of horses resting in the late afternoon sun.
Ms. Roper Doyle received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and then pursued a career in graphic design. Horses have always been her passion, both in her art and in riding. She resides in Richmond, Va, and is a juried member of the American Academy of Equine Art in Lexington, Ky.
August 15, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 4
This issue's cover art, "A Seagull" (14 in by 18 in; charcoal on paper), was drawn by Dr. Bruce Tarkington and is in the private collection of Julia Baughman of Columbus, Ohio.
Dr. Tarkington graduated from the North Carolina School of Veterinary Medicine in 1980. After owning and operating a small animal hospital for 27 years, he retired and began drawing coastal scenes for personal collections and public exhibits. He feels lucky and blessed for the opportunities he has gotten in the art world. He resides in Cary, NC.
August 1, 2019
Vol. 255, No. 3
This issue's cover artist, Bob Coonts, created "Pepa" (22 in by 30 in; watercolor on paper) in 2008. The piece was inspired by a photograph taken of Pepa the cat; the colorful window and shades as well as the blanket were imagined through what the artist describes as his style of abstract realism or imaginary realism.
Mr. Coonts received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado State University in 1963. He worked as a graphic designer and illustrator for 31 years. He currently resides in Fort Collins, Colo.
"The Bandage" (7 in by 5.5 in by 9 in; bass wood), was carved by Dr. Steve Swaim, who was inspired by his experience with teaching wound management and reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Swaim graduated from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1965. He practiced in Wichita, Kan, for nine months before serving in the US Army Veterinary Corps. He received the title of Professor Emeritus at Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine after teaching there for 38 years. He now resides on his family farm in Geuda Springs, Kan.
Dr. Janet Smith created "Savuti Zebras" (20 in by 30 in; watercolor and water pencils on white watercolor paper) in 2009. The piece is based on a photo taken in Botswana by her teacher and friend, Dr. Rhea Morgan.
Dr. Smith graduated from Tennessee Tech University with a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry and from the University of Tennessee with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine; she practiced as a veterinarian until an illness required retirement. She is largely self-taught in art and focuses mainly on horses and small animals. She resides in Rockwood, Tenn.
June 15, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 12
Dr. James Lawless created "Love at First Sight" (16 in by 20 in; oil on linen) in 2014. The piece was inspired by his daughter's Golden Retriever, Shea.
Dr. Lawless graduated from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1976. He and his wife sold their practice, Cornwall Veterinary Hospital, in 2003 to focus on his painting, but he continues to practice at various hospitals in southeastern New York and Massachusetts. He is self-taught in art and is a Signature Artist Member of the American Society of Marine Artists. He currently resides in Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY.
Dr. Lauren Butare-Smith created "Dee Dee" (9 in by 12 in; watercolor on paper) in 2012. The piece was inspired by her in-laws' late beloved yellowcrowned Amazon parrot.
Dr. Butare-Smith graduated from the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Formerly a small animal emergency veterinarian, she was disabled for over a decade by a Bartonella infection. She has recovered after years of treatment but no longer practices veterinary medicine; she now pursues art as her second career, having found it very therapeutic during her illness. She resides in Durham, NC.
Brenda Behr painted "Ruler of the Roost" (24 in by 18 in; oil on canvas) in 2015. A customer requested a painting for his city apartment; upon visiting and taking photos of his country estate, Ms. Behr was inspired by the interior of the chicken house.
Ms. Behr received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and her Master of Fine Arts degree from Syracuse University. She specializes in portraits of people, pets, homes, and weddings. She currently resides in Goldsboro, NC.
Sam Dolman painted "Chin Up" (20 in by 20 in; oil on canvas) in 2010. Like most of his work, it was inspired by the personality of animals; he wanted to express a certain comical element he sees in pigs.
Mr. Dolman found his true calling of art after briefly pursuing a career in accountancy. He moved to Spain and began painting regularly and continued his art upon returning to England. Cows, because of their intelligence and curious nature, are his favorite animals to paint. He resides in Sheffield, England.
April 15, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 8
This issue's cover artist, Vivienne Bellisario, created "Abby" (48 in by 36 in; oil on canvas) in 2014. The piece was inspired by her beloved sweet purebred English Labrador Retriever and was submitted for consideration for the JAVMA cover by her veterinarian, Dr. Bonnie Franklin.
Ms. Bellisario is mostly self-taught in art, with some instruction from portrait artists such as Jeremy Lipking, Julia Diller, and Valori Fussell. She also attended the Julian Ashton Art School in Sydney, Australia for a semester. She resides in Montecito, Calif.
"Highly Selective" (8 in by 14 in; oil on canvas) was painted by Paul Krapf. Like much of his art, it was inspired by the scenery and wildlife at his home studio in Montana.
Mr. Krapf began painting at age 10. He attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh from 1946 to 1948. He painted in his spare time while raising his family and working as an electrical designer for 30 years. In 1980, he left his job with NASA to become a full-time artist, with the support of his wife, Fonda.
March 15, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 6
"Star Belties" (9 in by 12 in; oil on canvas), was painted by Robert C. Rigsby Jr. The piece was inspired by scenes at Fearrington Village, NC.
Dr. Rigsby passed away in February of 2018. He was a graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and he owned and practiced at the Goldsboro Veterinary Hospital for 29 years. He was always interested in art as a tool with which to escape the rigor of veterinary medicine. His wife, Dr. Kirby Harriss Rigsby, practices at the Animal Hospital of Lenoir County in LaGrange, NC.
This issue's cover art, titled "At Peace" (20 in by 24 in; pastel on sanded paper), was painted by Nancy Colby. It was inspired by her late cat, Dusty; she created this portrait of him in his beloved sunshine so his beauty could live on.
Ms. Colby is a self-taught artist and has a well-deserved reputation for painting cats. She teaches at the Venice and North Port Art Centers. She is a member of the International Society of Feline Artists and a supporter of many animal rescue groups. She resides in North Point, Fla.
February 15, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 4
James Sardonis created "Shilo: Howling Beagle" (bronze statue, cast by Campbell Plaster & Iron foundry; 78 in by 72 in by 30 in) in 2018. The statue was commissioned by Dr. Mark and Mendy Helfat and donated to the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, in honor of their Beagle Shilo and Dr. Helfat's dog-loving parents, Lucile and Bernard Helfat.
Mr. Sardonis began his study and practice of sculpture at Phillips Exeter Academy in the late 1960s. He then majored in studio art and art history at Oberlin College, where he graduated in 1973. He resides in Randolph, Vt.
February 1, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 3
Jocelyn Urban painted "Jackson Horses" (102 in by 90 in; oil on canvas) with inspiration from wild horses in the United States, which she believes are iconic symbols of the nation.
Mrs. Urban received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Skidmore College and her Master of Fine Arts degree in printmaking from University of Massachusetts– Amherst. She has specialized in portraits of horses and dogs for the past 35 years. Her husband, Dr. Richard B. Urban is a veterinarian, and they reside in Georgetown, Conn.
January 15, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 2
This issue's cover artist, Britty Pointer, created "Cyrus and Dash, Best Friends" (8 in by 10 in; oil on canvas) in 2017. The piece was based on the scene of Ms. Pointer’s grandson, Cyrus, and his dog, Dash, running on a beautiful autumn morning in Savannah. She was inspired by the connection and extraordinary love between humans and animals.
Ms. Pointer was a teacher in Mississippi for 30 years and now lives in Columbia, SC, with her four cats. Her daughter, Dr. Emmy Pointer, works as a veterinary internist in Savannah, Ga.
January 1, 2019
Vol. 254, No. 1
This issue's cover artist, Tilly Strauss, created "Picky, Pecky Hen" (12 in by 9 in; sewn paper encaustic painting) by experimenting with different materials. She sewed together scraps of drawn paper and covered the piece in pigment and wax.
Ms. Strauss is an artist living in Miami, Fla. When she was a child, art became her way of communicating because she grew up overseas and could not speak the language of her classmates. Her father, Dr. Julian M. Strauss, and sister, Dr. Suzannah Strauss, are both veterinarians.
December 15, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 12
Terry Isaac painted "Rocky Trails" (24 in by 30.75 in; acrylic on board). The piece was inspired by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the grace and power of the mountain goats that live there.
Mr. Isaac has been a professional artist for over 30 years and draws his inspiration from observing nature. His art influences include Thomas Moran, Albert Bierstadt, and Robert Bateman. He is known for his attention to detail in painting magical moments created by the dramatic light nature provides. He resides in Penticton, Canada.
December 1, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 11
This issue's cover art is entitled "Myka" (8 in by 10 in; scratchboard). It was created by Dr. Jennifer Gockowski and inspired by a client’s wife’s beloved Siberian Husky.
Dr. Gockowski received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Wisconsin- Madison in 2005. During her fourth year of veterinary school, Drs. Robert Hardie and Bill Gengler urged her to study medical illustration after graduation. Since then, she has created illustrations for surgical procedures, biochemical companies, and two children’s coloring books for the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Assocation. She lives in Woodbury, Minn.
November 15, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 10
"Autumn's Gold" (26 in by 20.75 in; oil paint), was created by Bonnie Mohr. It features rolling Pennsylvania hills colored with all the bright orange, gold, red, and green that autumn offers. The changing foliage highlights the beautiful Guernsey cows grazing in front of the red covered bridge. The Pennsylvania Guernsey Association commissioned this piece for their 2000 National Convention.
Mrs. Mohr is the wife of a dairy farmer and a mother of five. She is a self-taught artist and is well known across the country for her detailed paintings of rural scenery. She lives with her family near Glencoe, Minn.
© Bonnie Mohr Studio.
November 1, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 9
"A Toy for Two" (14 in by 20 in; oil on canvas) was painted by Dr. Elodie Huguet. The two Cairn Terriers depicted in the piece, Nehemiah and Obadiah, belong to her residency mentor, Dr. Clifford "Kip" Berry.
Dr. Huguet was born in a small town in the French Alps. She moved to the United States in 2001, continuing to nurture her art interests and skills as well as starting her veterinary education. She graduated from The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 2015. She currently works at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital of the Carolinas and resides in Cary, NC.
October 15, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 8
"The Witching Hour" (11 in by 14 in; oil on canvas board), was painted by Dr. Ellen Codner. It depicts her beloved cat Jonathan at dusk, when she says the feline soul changes from sleepy house cat to wild hunter.
Dr. Codner has no formal artistic training but has dabbled in many forms. She graduated from the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1976 and is board certified in both internal medicine and dermatology. She opened her own specialty practice in veterinary dermatology in Danville, Calif. She retired this year and enjoys having time for painting, riding her bike, and learning Spanish.
October 1, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 7
The 11 District Directors are the representatives of the AVMA voting members and, along with the President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, Vice President, and Treasurer, make up the AVMA Board of Directors. District Directors serve a 6-year term on the Board and are elected by AVMA members residing in each of the 11 geographic districts defined in the Bylaws. Two new District Directors were recently elected. A listing of the District Directors can be found on the AVMA website.
September 15, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 6
"Toucan" (5 in by 7 in; golden acrylics on stretched canvas panel) was painted in 2015 by Dr. Bridget Tobleman. The inspiration for the painting was a photograph taken by Rose De Dan.
Dr. Tobleman graduated from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and was residency trained in critical care at Cape Cod Veterinary Specialists. Although largely self-taught in art, she gives significant credit to J. Allen Fitzpatrick and Ron A. Cheek, the Chair of Visual Arts at The Lawrenceville school and the Director of the Texas Academy of Figurative Art, respectively. She now resides in Dallas, Tex, working as a staff criticalist at MedVet Dallas.
September 1, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 5
At this year's AVMA House of Delegates regular annual session, incoming AVMA president Dr. John H. de Jong shared his goals for the 2018–2019 Association year. Also, Dr. John A. Howe was chosen as the 2018–2019 president-elect. The AVMA Board of Directors elected Dr. Gary S. Brown as chair and Dr. Rena K. Carlson as its vice chair for the 2018–2019 Association year. Previously the board had elected Drs. Janet D. Donlin, Arnold L. Goldman, and David E. Granstrom as the executive vice president, treasurer, and assistant executive vice president, respectively, for 2018–2019.
Coverage of the 2018 annual session of the AVMA House of Delegates and AVMA Convention 2018, held in Denver, begins with the September 1 issue and continues through the October 1 issue.
August 15, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 4
Kandi Thompson created "And Babies Make Three" (30 in by 22 in; watercolors) with inspiration from the interaction between a sheep and her two lambs.
Whether she's painting flowers, animals, or portraits, Ms. Thompson sees art as a spiritual and magical event. She likes her subjects to have a lot of bright light and shadows, as she thinks this adds more drama, mystery, and dimension to the work. She has won numerous awards locally, nationally, and internationally. Ms. Thompson was born in Illinois but now resides in the Sacramento area of California.
August 1, 2018
Vol. 253, No. 3
"Rita" (11 in by 17 in; charcoal highlighted with chalk on paper), was created by Dr. Owen Fink. The piece was inspired by the dog of Fink’s friend and mentor, Adrienne Bentley.
Dr. Fink is a small animal surgeon at Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners in Rockville, Md. He has no formal art education but has taken several continuing education classes, including some at Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia, Pa. He is a serial hobbyist with a passion for sewing, drawing, music, 3-D printing, and general tinkering. He currently resides in Potomac, Md.
This issue's cover art is entitled "That's the Spot" (30 in by 30 cm; colored pencil). Created by Kate Simpson, the piece was inspired by the quirky behavior and cheeky personality of young horses.
After Ms. Simpson received her foundation degree from Newcastle College, she studied Motion Graphics and Animation at Northumbria University, where she was awarded First Class Honors. In 2014, she was shortlisted for the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s Wildlife Artist of the Year competition. Ms. Simpson finds most of her artistic inspiration in horses and the countrysides of England's most beautiful counties.
"Mama Goose" (18 in by 24 in; soil on board overpainted with acrylics), was created by Paul Ford. The piece was inspired by his one-year stay on a small farm in Kansas during his preteen years, where he loved caring for a young farm menagerie.
Mr. Ford received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from San Diego State University and his Master of Arts in Secondary Education degree from University of Nevada-Reno. He was an artist and art educator for over 30 years in northern Nevada. He received the Nevada Governor’s Art Award for Excellence in Art Education in 2005. He is now happily retired and living in Sonoma, Calif.
June 15, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 12
This issue's cover art, "Saturday" (28 in by 30 in; oil on canvas), was painted by Carol Tinga. The painting was created from an enlargement of a photograph she took of a koi pond in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Ms. Tinga has a Master of Science degree in Epidemiology from Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), and began pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Epidemiology this year. In addition to freelance editing, she is a writing tutor at OVC and acts as a simulated client with the OVC Medical Communications Program. Ms. Tinga has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art from the University of Guelph. She is fascinated by animals, people, and creativity and self-expression. She currently resides in Guelph, Canada.
"Barney the Barn Cat" (9.5 in by 13.5 in; pastels on velour) is in the private collection of Dr. Clark and Rita Fobian and was created by Dr. Robert R. Billiar in 2006 with inspiration from a frightened yet photogenic stray kitten.
Dr. Billiar has no formal art training but has always liked to draw. He was the medical illustrator for the anatomy department of Iowa State University, where he was awarded his DVM degree in 1958. He lives in South Sioux City, Neb, where he previously practiced small animal medicine for 57 years.
"Golden Retriever Dog" (9 in by 12 in; watercolor on paper) is Teresa Silvestri's rendering of a friend's elderly pet dog. The gray in the animal's fur and its "soulful eyes" touched the artist emotionally and reminded her of the unconditional love a pet can give us.
Teresa Silvestri’s watercolors are inspired by her love of all animals. A self-taught artist, she is probably best known for her paintings that feature rescued rabbits. Silvestri’s artwork hangs in private collections around the world and the permanent collection of the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford.
"Zombado" (30 in by 48 in; water-soluble oils on gallery wrapped canvas) was painted by Sarah Richter. The piece was commissioned by Staci Grattan, and the subject is her Lusitano, Zombado do Vouga.
Mrs. Richter is a self-taught artist; she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Music and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif. Her art is inspired by her childhood, when she lived on a ranch with horses, and her study of equestrianism. Her father-in-law, Dr. Phillip J. Richter, who has practiced veterinary medicine for 30 years, shares her love of horses and suggested she submit her work to the JAVMA. Mrs. Richter currently resides in San Marcos, Calif.
April 15, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 8
John N. Agnew created "Is It Safe Yet?" (8 in by 10 in; scratchboard) in 2012 with inspiration from a Greek tortoise among Roman ruins in Turkey.
Mr. Agnew is an artist of natural history. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Cincinnati's School of Design, Art, and Architecture in 1976. He then began his career as an illustrator and designer for museum exhibits, branching out into fine art concentrating on wildlife and landscapes. In January 2015, John was designated a "Master Scratchboard Artist" by the International Society of Scratchboard Artists. He currently resides in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Joan M. Krocian painted "All in the Family" (20 in by 29 in; watercolor on paper). The piece was inspired by her love for animals. She showcased this piece to Dr. James Lawless of the Animal Hospital of Wappingers Falls in New York; he was very impressed and suggested it be submitted for publication on the cover of the JAVMA.
Mrs. Krocian is a self-taught artist who loves animals and all things involved in nature. She has been painting for over 50 years. Mrs. Krocian currently resides with her husband, Jack, in Hopewell Junction, NY.
March 15, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 6
"Archie & Norman" (22 in by 22 in; oil paint on board), was painted by Margaret Rice. The subjects of the piece are two Whippets, Archie and Norman, belonging to Dr. and Mrs. R. Wayne Randolph; the painting is in their private collection.
Margaret Rice received a Bachelor in Fine Arts degree in Printmaking from Louisiana State University. Her art has been influenced by the work of George Stubbs, John Emms, James Reynolds, and Andre Pater. Ms. Rice paints mostly pet portraits and commissions of dogs, cats, and horses. She currently resides in Baton Rouge, La.
The 11 District Directors are the representatives of the AVMA voting members and, along with the President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, Vice President, and Treasurer, make up the AVMA Board of Directors. District Directors serve a 6-year term on the Board and are elected by AVMA members residing in each of the 11 geographic districts defined in the Bylaws. To find out more about the District Directors, go to the AVMA Leadership page on the AVMA website.
February 15, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 4
This issue's cover art, "Lawn Mowers" (12 in by 12 in; oil on linen), was painted by Kathleen Dunphy. It was inspired by 9 goats that she acquired in 2014 for brush control of her property in the rural foothills of the Sierras. With their white coats and interesting antics, the goats quickly became a great source of entertainment and subject matter for paintings and drawings.
Ms. Dunphy attended the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. In 2003, she designed and built her own studio. She was recognized as one of the Top Ten Emerging Artists in 1998 by American Artist Magazine. Ms. Dunphy currently resides in Murphys, Calif.
February 1, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 3
"Purr" (30 in by 30 in; oil on canvas) was painted by Brian Commerford. He created this piece because he wanted to express unconditional love and the ability to enjoy good fortune without being bound.
Mr. Commerford received his Bachelor degree in Art Studio from Sonoma State University in 1972. His greatest influence has been the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda. His ultimate artistic goal is to capture the spirit or soul quality of the animal, not just a likeness. His wife, Katie, works as a bookkeeper at Smith Veterinary Hospital, located in Santa Fe, NM, where they live along with their two outrageously spoiled Pomeranians.
January 15, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 2
Dr. Nancy Coleman painted "Waiting for Doc" (11 in by 14 in; acrylic paint on canvas) with inspiration from a photo of Lucy, a Maltese who belonged to Dr. Edwin Nordan, her clinic associate. Lucy had gotten into some mischief and was pouting after being exiled to Dr. Nordan's office, and Dr. Coleman snapped a photo of the adorable scene.
Dr. Coleman is a graduate of Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine. She worked in mixed practice for 30 years with Dr. Nordan in Greenville, Miss. She is mainly self-taught in art, with help from a few non-credit workshops. She is now retired in Glen Allan, Miss, and does historical research, plays the pipe organ, and keeps in touch with former coworkers, clients, and patients.
January 1, 2018
Vol. 252, No. 1
"Pair of Pelicans" (7 in by 10 in; watercolor on paper), was painted by Katherine Klimitas. It was a Mother's Day gift for her mom, Dr. Adriana Segrara, who owns Natural Pet Care in Metairie, La. Ms. Klimitas's late father was also a veterinarian.
Ms. Klimitas is a New Orleans–based artist and designer who sold her first watercolor painting at age 10. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design from Loyola University in 2011. As the daughter of two veterinarians, she enjoys expressing her family's lifelong love of animals through her meticulous, lifelike paintings. She was born in Philadelphia, Pa, and currently resides in Metairie, La, where she runs her home business, KAK ART & Designs.
The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association is a semimonthly, peer-reviewed, general veterinary medical journal owned by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The journal publishes manuscripts dealing with any subject germane to the practice of veterinary medicine. Specifically, the mission of JAVMA is to advance and promote the science and art of veterinary medicine while upholding world-class standards in peer-reviewed veterinary medical scientific publications. JAVMA will provide the profession with the latest, high-quality research and clinically relevant medical information for veterinarians and will do this by drawing on and disseminating evidence-guided information across species and specialty expertise that promotes the highest-quality ethical standards of clinical care, animal welfare, and public health.
