Don’t miss these VMX sessions this weekend

Treatment breakthroughs, artificial intelligence, new pharmaceutical options, and how to improve your wellbeing are all on the agenda for the world’s largest gathering of veterinary professionals—the Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX)—being held January 18 through 22 at the Orange County Convention Center. About 17,000 veterinarians, technicians, support staff and global leaders in animal healthcare from around the world will attend the 36th annual conference, hosted by the North American Veterinary Community. “With advances in animal medicine paralleling those of human medicine, animals are living longer and experiencing a much better quality of life,” said NAVC interim CEO Eugene O’Neill on the VMX website. “Veterinary professionals from all over will have the opportunity to learn life-saving and lifechanging techniques from the most renowned leaders in animal medicine who will be teaching and presenting at VMX. They will also experience and see the latest in pharmaceuticals, surgical and medical equipment and nutrition from the more than 700 exhibiting companies.” dvm360 will be on site all weekend to provide coverage. Here are just some of the sessions to watch for at the conference: Food trial nuggets. Jennifer Schissler, DVM, MS, DACVD, will share her knowledge and experience about dermatology issues in pets, including a session on elimination diet trials. She’ll provide pointers on improving compliance with diet trial recommendations, how to choose a novel-protein diet and, of course, client communication tips to increase the odds of successfully completing a diet trial. Obesity and mobility: What’s the latest? Obesity in pets is a global concern with an increasing prevalence. Alex German, BVSc, PhD, DECVIM-CA, SHFEA, FRCVS, professor of small animal medicine at the University of Liverpool, will offer practical tips and expert insight into how practices can get patients to lose weight and improve mobility. Obesity in 2020: Challenges and solutions. Prof. German will continue his discussion of obesity and mobility with an in-depth discussion of Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2020 Veterinary Emerging Topics (VET) Report. This year’s report again focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs and cats, with particular emphasis on its relationship to excess weight. He’ll provide actionable steps veterinary teams can take to educate and engage clients throughout the weight loss process. New product gallery. Because of its wide reach, VMX is chosen by many companies in the veterinary industry for product launches, and this year is no exception. Last year, we covered product news and happenings from several key players in the industry, and this year promises even more that will help veterinary practices maintain the health of their patients and their business. Check our website and follow dvm360 on Facebook and Twitter for updates from the meeting.