Learn how IDEXX is enhancing the lives of animals, people, and the planet.

IDEXX: Contributing to something bigger

Pride Month is not just about commemoration and celebration. Education plays an important role, too. Do you know the answers to these LGBTQ+ trivia questions. Host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA puts his Pride panel to the test. Play along with the video or test your smarts with the questions and answers below:

The Stonewall Inn is in which New York City neighboorhood?

What year was the first Pride parade in the United States?

Taylor Swift mentioned GLAD in which of her songs?

Which show contains the longest running LGBTQ+ character in history?

What was the first European country to legalize same-sex marriage?

Who was the first openly gay man elected to public office in the United States?

Which activist is often credited as "Mother of Pride"?

To which actress did Ellen Degeneres come out to on 

What was the name of the first openly gay Marvel superhero?

Videos

Play along with the dvm360 Live!™ Pride panel and see if you can outsmart our LGBTQ+ trivia questions

Can our Pride panel answer these LGBTQ+ trivia questions?

 puts the spotlight on LGBTQ+ isssues in the veterinary profession. Omar Farías (he/him), VMD and president elect of PrideVMC, joins this episode to discuss the work being done to ensure everyone has a safe and inclusive work environment.

: With the current climate, there's just so much that can be done. Simply, one of the first things an individual can start doing, and I should have done this when we started talking...I should have shared my pronouns. One of the ways in which we can be more inclusive is to show that you're a safe space for others.

Omar Farías, VMD joins dvm360 Live!™ to discuss Pride Month, inclusion, and more

Creating inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community in vet med

It's Pride Month, and we're celebrating with a special episode of 

™. Host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, brings you the latest headlines in vet med and provides a sneak peek of his discussion on LGBTQ+ issues with Omar Farías, VMD on this segment of. Here are the headlines discussed in the show:

Hill’s Pet Nutrition launches Prescription Diet ONC Care

: The new diet will help support and nourish veterinary oncology patients

: online continuing education experience for veterinary professionals

Plus, dvm360® Flex continues to offer the premier online veterinary CE experience

Happy Pride Month, Hill's launches Prescription Diet ONC Care, and more

CityVet, the Dallas-based leading network of 29 veterinary-owned practices, recently opened a new clinic in Celina at 12001 N. Preston Road, Suite 50, Prosper, Texas 750783.

According to a company release, the clinic provides full-service care for pets, including preventative care, diagnostics, same-day walk-ins, surgery, and dental care.

CityVet Celina is led by Nicole Koenigsknecht, DVM, a 2002 graduate from Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Koenigsknecht offers more than 17 years of experience specializing in surgery and dentistry. What’s more, according to the release,

“Koenigsknecht is passionate about providing the best medicine and education for her patients. Her love for animals is the key driver that supports her dedication and commitment in her role.”

Koenigsknecht remarked, in the release, “I couldn’t pass on such a great opportunity! As much as I have enjoyed my time at the Prosper location, I am looking forward to making the move to Celina as we have already built great relationships with clients that currently live in the area.”

David Boguslawski, CityVet CEO added, “Celina is rapidly growing, and it only made sense to expand in this area to provide our clients and their pets with even more access to quality pet care. We are excited to continue our partnership with Dr Koenigsknecht at our new location; she has been a great partner over the years and has demonstrated our core values through her exceptional support for our staff and clinics every day."

In honor of the Celina opening, CityVet will host a grand opening on Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 12pm to 3pm. There will be food trucks, snow cones, and pet-friendly activities for all to engage in.

Additonally, Pet Treat Truck will be distributing free frosted cookies, bully sticks, catnip, and more to CityVet’s pets in attendance. Guests can also take advantage of free giveaways and prizes during the day.

Appointments are available. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended.

CityVet’s new location in Celina is now open. News release. CityVet. May 30, 2023. Accessed June 2, 2023. https://www.marylandzoo.org/news-and-updates/2023/06/maryland-zoo-welcomes-new-calf-to-its-sitatunga-herd

Articles

Situated in one of the fastest growing areas in North Texas 
 


CityVet Celina opens in Prosper, Texas

The 58 graduates of Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. (Photo courtesy of TUCVM)

The Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine (TUCVM) Class of 2023 welcomed 58 new doctors of veterinary medicine into the profession on May 6, 2023 for the spring commencement. The graduation ceremony was followed by the college’s Veterinary Medicine Oath and Hooding Ceremony and was available on the school’s YouTube channel for those unable to attend in person.

In addition, 5 TUCVM graduates received the Master of Science in Veterinary Science degree; 5 graduates received the Master in Public Health (MPH) degree; 1 TUCVM graduate received the PhD in Interdisciplinary Pathobiology (IDPB) degree; and 1 graduate received the PhD in Integrative Biosciences (IBS) degree. 

"I am honored to have served as the dean to this Class of 2023 and it is with gladness of heart that I look forward to engaging with my colleagues as they now join me in a most distinguished group of veterinary professionals and veterinary alumni," said Dean Ruby L. Perry, DVM, MS, PhD, Diplomate-ACVR, in a university release. "The College of Veterinary Medicine family is extremely proud of each graduate and we look forward to hearing about the accomplishments they will make as veterinary professionals, as leaders, as educators, and as researchers. They are well-equipped to make significant contributions and play vital roles in protecting and enhancing human and animal welfare as they embark on their various career paths on a journey of lifelong learning beyond the DVM degree. Congratulations Class of 2023!"

Commencement speaker, Jerome Williams, DVM. (Photo courtesy of TUCVM)

For the first time, both the graduate and professional schools’ commencement speaker and the veterinary medicine oath keynote speaker are veterinarians and Tuskegee alumni. Jerome Williams, DVM, ’68 and ’69 alumnus, gave an uplifting Commencement Address. Allen Cannedy, DVM, ’91 alumnus, gave the Veterinary Medicine Oath Charge to the newly named doctors of veterinary medicine.

Williams said to the graduates “As you prepare to enter the workforce, you will have great accomplishments and successes and on the other side of it you will be faced with challenges and disappointments. However, when those challenges and disappointments come, it can become daunting but the good, the bad and the ugly are all essential parts of any successful career. Challenges can be opportunities for growth and learning, So be determined and committed to persevering through any hard moment because there is sunshine after weathering an unrelenting storm.”

Oath speaker, Allen Cannedy, DVM. (Photo courtesy of TUCVM)

Cannedy said to the graduates, “Your journey will have many opportunities and your options are only limited by your imagination. If you got interests in a particular area then pursue them and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it!”

According to the release, TUCVM’s Class of 2023 represents the college’s 74th class to receive DVM degrees from Tuskegee University and the university has now awarded a total of 3,021 veterinary medicine degrees.

58 Doctors of Veterinary Medicine recognized during Tuskegee University 2023 spring commencement, oath ceremony and distinguished alums honored. News release. Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. Published May 31, 2023. Accessed June 2, 2023.

58 doctors of veterinary medicine were recognized at the ceremony

Tuskegee University celebrates 2023 spring commencement

This past April, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the annual Legislative Fly-In hosted by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in Washington, DC. This conference equips veterinary professionals with the knowledge and skills to advocate for pressing issues within the veterinary industry. The experience was enlightening, empowering, and crucial for the betterment of our profession, patients, and society.

Raisa Vélez-Contreras with Jose Arce, DVM, the immediate past president of the AVMA

During the conference, we participated in various workshops that focused on sharpening our advocacy skills. Among the various advocacy strategies discussed, grassroots advocacy stood out to me the most. It emphasizes the power of collective action and highlights the strength that comes from a larger number of advocates. By mobilizing a significant quantity of individuals who are passionate about a specific issue, we can increase the visibility of that issue and amplify its importance in the eyes of policymakers. Grassroots advocacy recognizes that change can be driven from the ground up, and our collective voice can bring about meaningful results.

In addition to grassroots advocacy, another concept that resonated with me was grasstops advocacy. This approach focuses on forming quality relationships with influential individuals and advocates who can help raise awareness and champion our cause. By engaging with key stakeholders, such as policymakers, industry leaders, and influential community members, we can leverage their support and expertise to advance our advocacy efforts. Grasstops advocacy recognizes that building strong relationships and gaining influential allies can significantly enhance the impact of our message and contribute to positive change.

These immersive workshops and conversations lead to being briefed on key policy issues that are affecting veterinary medicine so that we could apply these newly learned skills to effectively drive our message across to policymakers. After comprehensive discussions about these topics, we were assigned to meet with members of Congress from our respective states to advocate on these topics. Two vital bills emerged as focal points for our advocacy efforts: the Healthy Dog Importation Act (HDIA) and the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act (CIXA). In addition, we advocated for an increase in funding for the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank (FARAD).

Imported dogs present a significant public health concern, as they can introduce various diseases into the United States. The HDIA seeks to implement stricter regulations such as microchipping, health certificates, and vaccination records to be issued by a licensed veterinarian.

 These measures aim to protect both human and animal health, ensuring a safer environment for all.

Currently, the CDC only requires a rabies vaccination certificate for animals that are imported from countries that are considered at high risk for rabies. These animals only encompass 6% of all imported dogs which means that there are approximately 950,000 animals that can gain entry to the United States and there are no current requirements for vaccinations or documentation set in place for this population of animals.

Establishing these regulations is especially important regarding highly contagious diseases such as African Swine Fever (ASF). ASF is a serious viral disease that affects swine populations and although ASF has not been reported in the United States, the recent reintroduction of the disease in the Dominican Republic and Haiti raises significant concerns for our pork industry. Strict regulations are currently in place, prohibiting the importation of pork products into the United States. These regulations are necessary to prevent the spread of ASF from the Dominican Republic and Haiti to the mainland, particularly through Puerto Rico, given its proximity and common travel routes to the United States.

Being from Puerto Rico, I have witnessed how many pets easily pass through security without the verification of pertinent documentation. It is disconcerting to note that there are no stringent regulations in place for dog importation, which poses a potential risk for the transmission of ASF. This is a highly resilient virus that can survive for extended periods in dog bedding and can also be passed through the feces of animals that have consumed contaminated pork products. Considering the significant number of dogs being imported into the United States without proper physical examinations, it is alarming to think about the potential for ASF to be introduced to a region that has never experienced this disease before.

From left to right: Aden Rouse (2nd-year veterinary student at NC State CVM), Zach Cochran (2nd-year student at University of Pennsylvania CVM), myself, Rebecca Stinson, DVM (one of the founders of the Carolina Equine Hospital and the past Vice President of the AVMA), Bardia Asefnia (Congresswoman's legislative assistant), and José Linares, DVM (poultry veterinarian and manager of veterinarian services at CEVA Animal Health LLC).

The second bill we discussed was the CIXA. Xylazine, an FDA-approved sedative, plays a crucial role in veterinary medicine in the context of large and exotic animals, production medicine, and research species. Access to this drug is particularly important for cattle since there is no practical alternative for sedation in these animals. The bill’s primary objective is to safeguard the well-being of animals and protect the veterinary professionals who care for them. Recently, this drug has unfortunately been abused and trafficked, becoming an emerging threat to public health. This bill aims to combat the illicit trafficking of xylazine by enforcing Schedule III penalties on those involved in trafficking or using xylazine for non-veterinary purposes while simultaneously ensuring continued veterinary access to the drug.

Finally, we discussed FARAD’s vital role in protecting the food supply by providing critical information on drug withdrawal times and safety. The program has been operating with limited funding, hindering its ability to grow, invest in technology, and retain expert scientists. We urged Congress to increase FARAD's annual authorization from $2.5 million to $5 million, enabling it to fulfill its mission effectively and safeguard the food supply.

It is crucial to highlight the importance of our presence in activities such as legislative conferences and advocacy efforts. As veterinary professionals, we possess a unique perspective on the concept of "One Health" and its impact on society. The concept of One Health recognizes that the well-being of humans, animals, and environment are intricately linked. While we are experts in treating all animals, our comprehensive education equips us with a broad understanding of various disciplines beyond animal health. This empowers us to address issues that extend beyond traditional veterinary medicine. By leveraging our knowledge and expertise, we can contribute meaningfully to discussions and policies related to public health, environmental conservation, food safety, and more.

Our presence in legislative activities provides an opportunity to emphasize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, demonstrating our dedication to protecting not only animal welfare but also the health and well-being of communities. As veterinary professionals, we are at the forefront of this interdisciplinary approach, as we understand the interdependencies and potential risks that arise from the health of animals and their impact on humans and the environment. Our ability to understand and contribute to topics beyond animal health makes us invaluable advocates for policies that promote a holistic and sustainable approach to healthcare.

Attending the legislative conference and advocating for change within the veterinary industry was a transformative experience. It deepened my understanding of emerging issues within the veterinary industry and equipped me with the tools to be an influential advocate. Armed with these newfound skills and knowledge, I aspire to become a more effective advocate for veterinary medicine. Furthermore, I intend to apply these strategies to address other critical issues within the veterinary industry, such as promoting diversity and accessibility in veterinary medicine, ensuring equitable care for underserved communities, and advocating for animal welfare. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, engage with policymakers, and network with like-minded individuals who share a passion for veterinary medicine. Moving forward, I am confident that my enhanced advocacy skills will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the advancement and well-being of the veterinary profession and the animals and communities we serve.

The knowledge gained and advocacy skills developed during this conference will undoubtedly shape my future as a veterinarian. I am committed to championing the well-being of animals, promoting public health, and advancing the veterinary profession for the betterment of society.

African Swine Fever (ASF). Usda.gov. Accessed June 1, 2023. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/swine-disease-information/african-swine-fever/seminar

African swine fever FAQs. U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Accessed June 2, 2023. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/agricultural-items/african-swine-fever-faqs

AVMA congressional advocacy network. American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed June 2, 2023. https://avmacan.avma.org/

2023 Farm Bill AVMA Priority: Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank (FARAD). American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed June 2, 2023. https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3A02c56c9d-234e-4eca-ab0a-86a194c81e64&viewer%21megaVerb=group-discover (Accessed: 15 May 2023).

Combating Illicit Xylazine Act (H.R. 1839/S. 993). American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed June2, 2023. https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3A9adad4a9-20bd-49b7-ab7e-8f1ab352d9f7&viewer%21megaVerb=group-discover (Accessed: 15 May 2023).

AVMA members press Congress for illicit xylazine, dog importation laws. American Veterinary Medical Association. April 25, 2023. Accessed June 2, 2023. https://www.avma.org/news/avma-members-press-congress-illicit-xylazine-dog-importation-laws

Healthy Dog Importation Act (H.R. 1184/S. 502). American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed June 2, 2023. https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3A42cead70-c507-4549-8163-1f5de9ede2e2&viewer%21megaVerb=group-discover

One dvm360® student ambassador shares what it was like to participate in the Legislative Fly-in with the American Veterinary Medical Association

SAP Partners