m i c h i g a n v e t e r i n a r y m e d i c a l a s s o c i a t i o n

in this issue . . .

3 Board Update

4 MSU CVM Class of 2014 Graduates

6 PEDv Challenges Veterinarians

10 State Veterinarian Bulletin

11 Don’t Miss the Mackinac Island

Veterinary Conference!

12 Legislative Update

insert

2013 MAHF Annual Report

15 Top 10 Reasons to Be an MVMA

Member

16 Members in the News

19 Scripts to Improve Your

Communication Skills

21 A Teaching Opportunity at MSU

CVM

back cover

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

continued on page 2 .

v o l u m e i x • n u m b e r 2 • s u m m e r 2 0 1 4

Cheri Johnson, DVM, MS, Dipl ACVIM (Internal Medicine) received the Honorary Veterinary

Alumna Award which is given to a non-alumnus

member of the college community who has been

both distinctive and distinguished in one or more

of the college’s mission areas—teaching, research,

or service. In recognition of sustained excellence

over time and the great service she has brought to

MSU, the college officially named her an honorary

alumnus. Dr. Johnson is a professor in the Depart-

ment of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, where she

practices and teaches small animal internal medi-

cine. Until recently, she was also Acting Director of

the MSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Jon Patterson, DVM, PhD, Dipl ACVP received

the Zoetis Distinguished Teacher Award. This

award winner is selected by the students and

presented to a CVM faculty member for displaying

outstanding teaching ability, leadership, and

high moral character. Dr. Patterson is a professor

of pathobiology and diagnostic investigation at

the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal

Health at MSU CVM. He does an outstanding job

working with students and his research interests

include teaching and learning research, as well as

student learning outcomes assessments.

AWARDS TO MVMA STUDENT AFFILIATE MEMBERS

MVMA is proud of its many senior student

affiliates who received awards as they graduated.

These students are the future of veterinary

medicine.

n Veterinary Cancer Society Award for Proficiency

in Clinical Oncology, Stephanie Bagwell

n American College of Veterinary Internal Medi-

cine Award: Small Animal, Laura Benoit

n Ziegler Caring Award: Female, Laura Benoit

n American College of Veterinary Anesthesiolo-

gists and Analgesia Award, Stacii Comstock

n American College of Veterinary Surgeons Award:

Small Animal, Stacii Comstock

n Excellence in Primary Care Award, Stacii

Comstock

n John and Shirley Richardson Volunteerism

Award, Jamie Douglas

MVMA MembersHonored

n Zoo and Wildlife Award, Jamie Douglas

n Dr. Wade O. Brinker Orthopedic Award,

Colleen Guidot

n Glassen Memorial Foundation Award for

Excellence in Small Animal Medicine,

Colleen Guidot

n Phi Zeta Award: Highest GPA, Colleen

Guidot

n Small Animal Clinical Sciences

Proficiency Award, Colleen Guidot

n Veterinary Emergency Critical Care Soci-

ety/Abbott, Colleen Guidot

n American College of Veterinary Radiology

Award, Kathryn Hill

n Ethicon Surgery Award (for SCS surgery),

Kathryn Hill

n Phi Zeta Award: Second Highest GPA,

Kathryn Hill

n Zoo and Wildlife Award, Mary Jean Isaac

n Moxley Award for Excellence in Equine

Medicine, Tasha Likavec

n SCAVMA Community Service Award,

Tasha Likavec

n American Association of Feline Practitio-

ners Award, Mary (Molly) Lynch

n American College of Veterinary Internal

Medicine Award–Small Animal, Nicole

Maurer

n Glassen Memorial Foundation Award for

Excellence in Comparative Ophthalmol-

ogy, Jessica Maynard

n Boehringer Ingelheim Cardiology Award,

Jonathan Musser

n Glassen Memorial Foundation Award

for Excellence in Small Animal Surgery,

Jonathan Musser

n Merial Pain Management Award, Oliver

Parsonage

n Bayer Excellence in Communication

Award, Allison Peterson

n American College of Veterinary Internal

Medicine Award: Large Animal, Julie

Rapson

n Hutton-Riley Equine Award, Julie Rapson

n Production Medicine Scholar’s Award,

Henry Reinart

n The Big Medicine Award for Excellence

in Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Henry

Reinart

n Production Medicine Scholar’s Award,

Stephanie Roggenbuck

n Bovine Clinical Proficiency Award, Jac-

quelyn Rowley

n Production Medicine Scholar’s Award,

Jacquelyn Rowley

n Henry Schein Animal Health Cardiology

Award, Phillip Ryan

n Ziegler Caring Award: Male, Phillip Ryan

n Dr. Arthur D. Marosi Surgery Award,

Alexander Schechter

n Ethicon Surgery Award (for LCS surgery),

Levi Smith

n American College of Veterinary Surgeons

Award: Large Animal, Ashley BanderBroek

n Dr. Samuel and Mrs. Madalyn Pollock

Clinical Pathology Award, Binxi Wu

n Henry Schein Animal Health Cardiology

Award, Binxi Wu

n VTH Student Customer Service Award,

Binxi Wu

n Beachnau Dairy Clinical Proficiency

Award, Jessica Zalucha

n Dr. Robert F. Langham Diagnostic Pathol-

ogy Award, Whitney Zoll

2144 Commons Pkwy., Okemos, MI 48864-3986

tel (517) 347-4710 · fax (517) 347-4666

email mvma@michvma.org

web www.michvma.org

facebook www.facebook.com/ilovemyvet

twitter www.michvma.org

youtube www.youtube.com/michiganvma

pinterest http://pinterest.com/michvma

Published quarterly in March, June,

September, and December.

Deadlines are the first of the preceding month.

editorsKarlene B. Belyea, MBA • Sheri Fandel

2014 mvma officers & directorsofficers

Dr. Therese Burns, President

Dr. Julie Cappel, President-Elect

Dr. Kevin Stachowiak, 1st Vice President

Dr. Bruce Cozzens, 2nd Vice President

Dr. Ralph Huff , Immediate Past President

Dr. Nancy Frank, AVMA Delegate

Dr. Kathleen Smiler, AVMA Alternate Delegate

Karlene Belyea, MBA, Chief Executive Offi cer

directors representing districtsDr. Matthew Taylor, (1) Southern

Dr. Kristin Knirk, (2 & 3) Michiana & Southwestern

Dr. Melissa Owings, (4) Jackson

Dr. Lauren Gnagey, (5 & 9) Washtenaw & Livingston

Dr. Christian Ast, (6 & 8) Wayne & Oakland

Dr. Tari Kern, (7) Macomb

Dr. Jamie Snow, (10) Mid-State

Dr. Chad Ackerman, (11) Western

Dr. Kurt Dunckel, (12) Saginaw

Dr. Rebecca Barr, (13) Thumb

Dr. Anne Shuff , (14) Northeastern

Dr. Marcia Izo, (15) Northern

directors representing associationsDr. Mike Thome, MI Equine Practitioners

Dr. Steven Bailey, Southeastern Michigan VMA

at-large directorsDr. Erin Howard, Food Animal

Dr. Charles DeCamp, MSU CVM

Dr. Lori Penman, Lab Animal Medicine

layout/designCharlie Sharp/Sharp Des!gns, Lansing, MI

printing & mailingBRD Printing, Lansing, MI

▪ The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association

represents the veterinary profession in Michigan,

advances the knowledge and standards of its

membership, and promotes the science, practice,

and value of veterinary medicine for the benefi t

of animal and human health.

Professional excellence.

Compassionate care.

MVMA Now Offers Podcasts! MVMA member Dr. Jenna Corbett is recording a series of podcasts which are

available on the MVMA website. The first is “Genetics in Veterinary Practice”

and the second will be a mini-series entitled “Before Buying a Practice.” Many

thanks to Dr. Corbett for her eff orts!

. “Members Honored,” from front cover

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 3

PROGRESS ON STRATEGIC PLAN

n MANDATORY CONTINUING EDUCATION (CE).

Governor Snyder created the Office of

Regulatory Reinvention (ORR) to downsize

government entities. They recommended

the abolition of 18 existing Boards. This

administration is looking to reduce

the amount of government regulation

of business. Within the Public Health

Code, some professions have specific CE

mandates, others have just a CE reference,

and some have no mention at all. Senate

Bill 92, which deals with expanding what

pharmacy technicians can do and adding a

mandatory CE component, may help push

this forward if it passes because it opens the

door to adding regulations.

n STRENGTHENING MVMA’S CE. The Strengthening

CE Task Force has put out a CE survey to the

entire membership in an eff ort to respond to

member needs. Many suggestions have also

been implemented or beta tested over the

last year.

n CAPITALIZING ON TECHNOLOGY. The MVMA staff

is streamlining the new database software. A

group of 18 veterinary medical associations

using this software have created a work

group to assist each other with software

challenges. MVMA continues to have the

largest state VMA social media presence

with 3,300+ Facebook fans, 2,500+ Twitter

followers, 30 videos on YouTube with

17,000+ views, and 70+ Pinterest followers.

SALES & USE TAX FOR VETERINARIANS

MVMA’s lobbyist informed the Board that

the legislature is currently focused on

Personal Property Tax. The State Chamber

took Senate Bill 64 forward which had

unanimous passage but was vetoed by

the governor. Senate Bill 337 was signed

one week later with all of Treasury’s

amendments. There is a 10-bill package

(sb 821-830) which needs to be off the table

before movement can be made on the sales

and use tax issue. Treasury has now said

that Revenue Administrative Bulletins (RAB)

from October 1, 2006 and after may be relied

upon. Unfortunately, the RAB that applies

to veterinarians is from 1990. We have con-

tacted several legislators about the sales and

use tax issue who may be willing to assist

us. Our request to the Treasury Department

is that they clarify the rules veterinarians

should be following. We are not looking for

tax breaks. Once the personal property tax

issue has been resolved, MVMA will likely

put in a bill in an attempt to get the current

RAB written into statute.

MICHIGAN EQUINE PRACTITIONERS

ASSOCIATION (MEPA)

MEPA and MVMA are trying to determine

how best to combine eff orts and work

together in the future. MEPA members

have voted to join with MVMA. The MVMA

Board passed a motion to finalize a Letter of

Agreement between the organizations and

combine the membership of both to initiate

a more active equine presence in MVMA.

DEVELOPMENT & REVIEW POLICY

FOR MVMA POSITION STATEMENTS

In an eff ort to eff ectively manage the process

of drafting new and updating old MVMA

position statements, a review policy was

drafted and approved by the Board. All

position statements will be reviewed every

fi ve years.

MARCH 19, 2014 MEETING

board update

front row (left to right): Dr. Nancy Frank, Dr. Julie Cappel, Karlene Belyea, Dr. Therese Burns, Dr. Melissa

Owings, Dr. Charlie Decamp. back row: Drs. Lori Penman, Chad Ackerman, Steve Bailey, Kevin Stachowiak, Bruce

Cozzens, Ralph Huff . camera shy: Drs. Kathy Smiler, Matt Taylor, Lauren Gnagey, Christian Ast, Tari Kern, Jamie

Snow, Kurt Dunckel, Rebecca Barr, Anne Shuff , Marcia Izo, Mike Thome, Erin Howard, Kristin Knirk.

Run for MVMA 2nd Vice President

You have the opportunity to help guide

the MVMA into the next decade! Step up

and share your experience, leadership,

and vision with over 2,200 veterinary

professionals across the state. The MVMA

Leadership Development Committee,

chaired by Dr. Mike Thome, is seeking

nominations for the office of 2nd vice-

president. Nominations may also be made

for the offices of first vice president and

president-elect; however, traditionally

once elected, the vice presidents ascend

through the chairs without opposition

to the office of president. Nominations

may be made by constituent associations,

petition of 5% of the voting members

(approximately 75 members), or by the

Leadership Development Committee.

Interested individuals should contact

MVMA for more information. A letter of

intent with a CV should then be submit-

ted by July 1. Contact MVMA at mvma@

michvma.org or (517) 347-4710 for more

information.

4 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

I remember like it

was yesterday, the

amazing day I walked

across this stage myself and

was introduced as Doctor. It was

by far one of the most proud mo-

ments of my life, after the years of dedi-

cation and extremely hard work to get here.

I had tears of joy in my eyes as I heard from the

crowd, “Woo hoo! Go, Mom!” For I had two young

sons that had seen me through the eight years of

college education required to earn the degree of

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. I’m not sure who

was more proud at that moment, me or them.

I often look back and contemplate how I

survived those days of commuting 55 miles to MSU

daily, raising two young boys as a single mom,

participating in work- study at school and part-

time jobs on the weekends, and studying until

exhaustion set in. In that time of my life, I had

no extra hours to spend having fun with friends

and in any of the extracurricular activities

off ered at school.

After graduation I was

remarried and had two more

children. I worked full-time as

a small-animal practitioner.

The challenges of work life

balance were still very real

and continue on today. I

believe the solution to the

balancing act of life is to

set priorities and give

everything you have

at each moment. It

is the quality, not

quantity of time

spent with family,

friends, work,

hobbies, volunteer activities and even relaxation

that makes the diff erence.

I became involved in organized veterinary

medicine by attending my local veterinary medical

association continuing education (CE) meetings

one evening each month. At first it was for the

CE, socialization, and to meet other members of

my profession in my area. As time went on, I was

approached and asked to join the association as

secretary. It was a big step for me. I had four chil-

dren at home and a full time job. I had my hands

full already. But here I am today, having taken that

step, working my way up from President of my

local veterinary medical association to President

of our state association.

I never imagined I would be back here on this

stage at a graduation ceremony for the College

of Veterinary Medicine in any capacity. But look

Mom, I made it again! What an honor this truly is

for me today to address you, the graduating class

of 2014 from the Michigan State University College

of Veterinary Medicine. I am filled with joy for

each of you, as you enter the next phase of your

lives in the greatest profession on earth!

I’m sure you are feeling relief, joy, excitement

and even apprehension as you move on from

student to Doctor. Remember the Michigan

Veterinary Medical Association is here to help.

We have continuing education opportunities, we

are present on social media including Facebook,

Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest, and our MVMA

website has been modified to include informa-

tion for practice owners, new doctors, associate

veterinarians, students and office staff . There is

something for everyone available, and the MVMA

staff is eager to help you.

Whether you stay in Michigan or live

elsewhere, there will be a veterinary medical

association in your area.  I urge you to join your

local, state and national associations, and to get

involved at whatever level you can. My years serv-

ing the board of my local and now state VMA have

been a wonderful experience for me, something I

will treasure forever.

So you leave here today, the newest members

of our fine profession, Doctors of Veterinary Medi-

cine! Hold your heads up and be very proud . . .

you deserve it! Congratulations to each and every

one of you.

ke it

he

ed

f and

It was

mo-

f dedi-

et here.

om the

young

rs of

e of

who

m.

o MSU

m,

art-

til

ad

nds

vities

ore

me as

ioner.

ork life

ere still very real

ue on today. I

solution to the

I remember lik

was yesterday, th

amazing day I walke

across this stage myself

was introduced as Doctor. I

by far one of the most proud m

ments of my life, after the years of

cation and extremely hard work to ge

I had tears of joy in my eyes as I heard fro

crowd, “Woo hoo! Go, Mom!” For I had two y

sons that had seen me through the eight yea

college education required to earn the degre

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. I’m not sure w

was more proud at that moment, me or them

I often look back and contemplate how I

survived those days of commuting 55 miles t

daily, raising two young boys as a single mom

participating in work- study at school and pa

time jobs on the weekends, and studying un

exhaustion set iin. In that time of my life, I ha

no extra hours to spend having fun with frien

and in any of the extracurricular activ

ff d h l

n I was

ad two mo

ked full-tim

mal practiti

nges of wo

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT AT GRADUATION

MSU CVM Class of 2014 Graduates!

ga

cing

t prio

every

at ea

is th

qu

sp

fr

e we

ntinu

the s

ff d t h l

ation

nd ha

work

anim

allen

an vetvetettetettttttteterinerinerinerinerinrieririnerinrirrinerinreerer ariaariaariaariaariaariaariaariariaaariaariaariaiaariaaar aa an •n •n •nnn ••n •n •n •n ••n •nn • n summsummsummsummsummssssusumsummususummsummsumsummsummmmsummsuusummsumsummssummmsumusummummmms eer 2er 2eerer eer erer 2r 2er 2er 22eee 2e 2r 20140140101014014010101011014141444

balanc

set

e

balanc

and con

believe

off ered at school.

After gradua

remarried an

children. I

a small-a

The cha

Therese Burns, DVM

MVMA President

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 5

6 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

f or the last year, veterinarians in swine

production and mixed practices have

been facing a disease new to American

agriculture causing severe losses, porcine

epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv). An envel-

oped single-stranded RNA coronavirus first

discovered in England in 1971, PEDv was

initially found in much of Europe; however

since the 1980s, epidemics are rare. In Asia

epidemics continue and the strain found

in the United States is 99% homologous to

the Asian strain. PEDv was first detected in

swine herds in Ohio, Indiana, and Iowa with

positive results confirmed by the National

Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) on

May 16, 2013. As of the writing of this article

in April 2014, more than 5,500 cases have

been confirmed in 29 states. According to

April 2013–April 2014 data compiled by the

National Animal Health Laboratory Network

(NAHLN), of which the Michigan State

University Diagnostic Center for Population

and Animal Health (MSU DCPAH) is a mem-

ber, the states with the highest numbers

of PEDv-positive accessions are (in order):

Iowa, Minnesota, North Carolina, Illinois,

and Oklahoma. To date, there have been 121

positive accessions in Michigan. On April

18, 2014, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack

announced that both PEDv and swine delta

coronavirus will be reportable diseases in

the United States. This action is being taken

in an eff ort to slow the spread of the disease

and enhance biosafety while maintaining

movement of pigs.

While PEDv is only infectious to swine

and does not play a role in public health

and/or food safety, it is of substantial con-

cern to veterinarians and producers because

of high levels of morbidity and mortality. In

herds with no previous exposure to PEDv,

morbidity can be 100%. Mortality can also

approach 100% in suckling pigs; mortality

decreases as age increases (“Technical Note:

Procine Epidemic Diarrhea”).

Why Should All Veterinarians Care?DCPAH has been working with Dr. Madonna

Gemus-Benjamin, assistant professor in the

MSU College of Veterinary Medicine’s de-

partment of Large Animal Clinical Sciences.

Gemus-Benjamin works in swine extension

and has handled Michigan cases of PEDv.

Courtney Chapin

MSU Diagnostic Center for Population

and Animal Health

DEADLY VIRUS SPREADING AMONG U.S. PIGS

PEDv Challenges Veterinarians

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 7

She notes three things that veterinarians

should know about PEDv: “It’s highly infec-

tious among young swine. We don’t fully

understand the transfer of the virus. It’s cer-

tainly shifted veterinarians’ perspective on

biosecurity and biocontainment.” She goes

on to say, “We can talk about biosecurity

and biocontainment among pig producers

and poultry producers because they were

at the top of the curve. But it didn’t work.

If a virus like this hit highly commingled

industries such as the equine or beef cattle

industry, it would be quite an eye-opener.”

As PEDv challenges the veterinary com-

munity, the virus is also of interest to the

general public as it aff ects the cost of meat,

not just pork, but also chicken as an alterna-

tive source of protein. In particular, as the

summer barbeque season arrives, the prices

of ribs are expected to increase substan-

tially. Gemus-Benjamin says, “This is really

going to niggle at people from a food supply

perspective . . . The ‘foodie’ movement has

been a quality discussion but now I think

perhaps we’ll hear more discussion about

quantity of food.”

Clinical Signs & TransmissionClosely related to transmissible gastro-

enteritis virus (TGEV), clinical signs and

lesions of PEDv infection (now referred to as

swine enteric coronavirus disease, SECoV)

are indistinguishable from TGEV infection

(Stevenson et al.). In research performed

in China, PEDv was found to be “a major

diarrheal pathogen . . . either alone or in

conjunction with TGEV, GAR [Group A

rotaviruses], or PCV2 [porcine circovirus

2].” Because of the difficulty in making a

diagnosis based solely on clinical signs, it

was important to develop a diagnostic assay

(Zhao et al). The most common clinical sign

is watery feces that may be flocculent and

fetid. Vomiting, dehydration, and metabolic

acidosis are also common (“Technical Note:

Procine Epidemic Diarrhea”).

The mode of transmission appears to be

only fecal-oral. The disease quickly spreads

through herds and can be spread via envi-

ronmental contamination (feed, clothing,

boots, or equipment). Even if biosecurity

measures have not prevented the current

outbreak, continued eff orts are needed

and producers are strongly advised to take

increased precautions.

Herd Immunity & ReinfectionWhen a herd is diagnosed as positive for

PEDv or delta coronavirus infection, one

method of immune stimulation is to extract

diarrhetic stool from a clinically aff ected

piglet, dilute in a PBS solution, and then

spray onto the nose of the adult breeding

animals. This works because the virus

content in the diarrhea is so high. The goal

is to get all the breeding stock exposed

because at this time the only known way to

protect piglets is through sIgA via colostrum

and milk. How long the immunity lasts is

unknown. Previously, serum IgG levels were

being monitored, but no correlation has

been shown between serum IgG levels and

piglet protection. Based on what is known

today, the only piglets that are protected

are those who are nursing from sows that

have been exposed, mounted immunity, and

are now transferring sIgA to PEDv or delta

coronavirus. Logically, once the piglets have

been transferred to the nursery, they are no

longer protected. In addition, the viral load

present even after a clean-up suggests that a

herd can be re-exposed.

According to Gemus-Benjamin, research

underway at the University of Minnesota

hopes to answer important questions

about how infected herds recover after an

outbreak. The results of that research, which

includes a survey of clusters where there

have been outbreaks, will be available in the

fall. Based on preliminary data, principal

investigator Dr. Dane Goede has said he

suspects that the research will show three

scenarios: (1) herds that have 100% clinical

signs in the adults and within 60 days, the

herd returns to normal production; (2) herds

where not all the adults show clinical signs

and endemic diarrhea persists in piglets; (3)

herds with 100% of adult animals showing

clinical signs and then 60–90 days later

re-breaking.

While exposure to some pathogens

can help herds to develop immunity,

Gemus-Benjamin cautions that intention-

ally introducing PEDv to naive herds is

not recommended. “Some producers are

thinking they would like to expose their

herds now and get it over with, develop

immunity. That worked with TGEV at least

in part because PRCV (porcine respiratory

coronavirus), which has cross-protective

antibodies against TGEV, has been relatively

endemic in swine herds in the last few years.

For those who were not aware of the eff ect of

PRCV, their assumption is, ‘We had a dose of

TGEV and now we’re protected.’ PEDv is not

TGEV. Nor do we have a virus that provides

cross-protective antibodies.”

Imagine having a kennel full of unvac-

cinated dogs and puppies infected with

parvovirus and another kennel of unvacci-

nated, healthy animals. Would anyone want

to co-mingle the two groups so that all the

dogs get parvovirus? No.

Diagnostic TestingAt DCPAH, staff in the virology laboratory

have worked in collaboration with diag-

nosticians at the University of Minnesota to

off er a PEDv PCR assay. To request testing

for PEDv, write in “PEDv” on the general

submittal form under “Other Requests.”

Acceptable specimens are the same as those

for TGE (test code 80110). Please call the

laboratory at (517) 353-1683 with any ques-

tions about PEDv testing.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & REFERENCESPork Checkoff , “PEDV Resources.” http://pork.org/

pedv.

Stevenson, G., Hoang, H., Schwartz, K., Burrough,

E., Sun, D., Madson, D., Cooper, V., Pillatzki,

A., Gauger, P., Schmitt, B., Koster, L., Killian,

M., Yoon, K., “Emergence of Porcine epidemic

diarrhea virus in the United States: clinical

signs, lesions, and viral genomic sequences.”

Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation

25(5) 649–654.

USDA APHIS Veterinary Services, “Questions &

Answers: Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus

Reporting and Control.” http://www.aphis.

usda.gov/publications/animal_health/2014/

faq_ped_reporting.pdf.

USDA APHIS Veterinary Services, “Swine Novel

Enteric Corona Virus Disease Testing Summary

Report” (April 16, 2014). https://www.aasv.org/

pedv/20140416_novel_corona_virus_weekly_re-

port.pdf.

USDA, “PEDv Summary Actions.” http://www.usda.

gov/documents/pedv-summary-actions.pdf.

USDA, “Technical Note: Porcine Epidemic

Diarrhea.” http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ani-

mal_health/animal_dis_spec/swine/downloads/

ped_tech_note.pdf.

Zhao, J., Shi,B., Huang, X., Peng, M., Zhang, X., He,

D., Pang, R., Zhou, B., Chen, P., “A multiplex RT-

PCR assay for rapid and diff erential diagnosis

of four porcine diarrhea associated viruses in

field samples from pig farms in East China from

2010 to 2012.” Journal of Virological Methods 194

(2013) 107–112.

8 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 9

10 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

in light of the fact that USDA intends to make Porcine

Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv) and Swine Delta

Coronavirus (SDCv is a newly identified, milder-than-

PEDv, enteric illness) reportable diseases sometime in

the next two weeks, we thought it best to emphasize

the importance of biosecurity and update you on our

outreach activities.

 As veterinarians your primary concern is prevent-

ing spread of PEDv from farm to farm. Brushing up on

biosecurity practices will help mitigate the risk of your

clients’ farms becoming infected.

 The American Association of Swine Veterinarians

(AASV) recommends, first and foremost, review and

tighten biosecurity protocols. Pay particular attention

to anything or anyone sourced internationally. Be

especially diligent about personnel and visitors but also

consider supplies, feed ingredients, food items, etc. that

might be of international origin. If you are unsure about

the origin of a particular product, or the components of

a product, contact the supplier and request information

on the origin of their ingredients or components.

 AASV’s biosecurity recommendations include:

n limiting traffic (people and equipment) onto the farm

n thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting anything coming

onto the farm

n enforcing downtime requirements and maintaining a

log of visitors

n taking care when disposing of dead stock particularly

if using a communal disposal method

n isolating newly arriving animals and continuing vet

to vet discussions about animal health at the herd of

origin

n showering in the facility where practical and changing

into clean boots and coveralls (veterinarians should

also be careful not to track the virus between herds on

their person, equipment, or vehicles)

 

If you suspect PEDv, contact the veterinary diagnostic

lab to determine what samples they want you to submit

and how they should be submitted. Contact information

for the veterinary diagnostic labs can be found on the

AASV website: http://www.aasv.org/aasv%20website/

Resources/Diseases/PorcineEpidemicDiarrhea.php

 The following links will take you to material

prepared for veterinarians, 4-H leaders, fair superin-

tendents, and parents, to assure the most meticulous

approach to PEDv risk mitigation:  

n Biosecurity for Organizers of Weigh-in or Tag-

ging Events, http://www.pork.org/fi lelibrary/

resources/04166.pdf

n PEDv: What Is It?, http://www.wvagriculture.org/

Division_Webpages/AH_fi les/Swine.pdf

n Transportation Biosecurity Protocols for PEDV

Control, http://www.pork.org/fi lelibrary/PED-bios

Transport.pdf

 

In preparation for swine at fairs and the statewide

comingling at exhibition, the Michigan Department of

Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Animal

Industry Division (AID) began an outreach eff ort in

early January by contacting the Michigan

Association of Fairs and Exhibitions and

speaking at their annual meeting on several

issues including fair biosecurity (especially

in light of the Porcine Epidemic Diarrheal

virus [PEDv] in swine), recognition that a

fever above 105°F in swine is now reportable

to the State Veterinarian, Animal Disease

Traceability,  and the protocol for reporting and respond-

ing to disease at a show. PEDv and SDCv will soon be

reportable diseases at the federal level and at the state

level we will have to establish our policies for response,

in the next week or so.   

 In the meantime, we have conducted outreach to

fairs’ swine superintendents, asking for the contact

information for each of their contracted veterinarians,

and outreach to Michigan State University’s Swine Team.

MDARD also held a class for 22 veterinarians across the

state who learned about their roles and responsibilities

when contracting with fairs and exhibitions. Addition-

ally the swine health committee met to exchange ideas,

concerns and information about PEDv.

 AID will have veterinary students visiting fairs to

distribute biosecurity posters and observe swine check-

in protocols this summer.

 When a disease like PEDv hits Michigan’s animal

industries, it is imperative that we are not only ready to

respond to mitigate the spread of the virus, but to assist

with outreach so that everyone; from the grain elevator

owner to the veterinarian, and producer, knows what to

expect and how to respond. Experience shows us that

quick and decisive actions will mitigate the impact and

slow the spread. We stand ready to work with industry,

veterinarians, educators like MSU Extension, 4-H, FFA,

MSU’s colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture

and Natural Resources, and the MVMA, to distribute

regulatory and preventative information wherever and

whenever we can.

State Veterinarian BULLETIN James Averill, DVM, PhD

State Veterinarian, Animal Industry Division Director

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 11

n Flea Control: Firm Facts vs. Misleading Myths

n Ticks: Understanding Today, Control for Tomorrow

n Heartworm and Other Internal Parasites

Michael Dryden, DVM, MS, PhD

University Distinguished Professor of Veterinary Parasitology

Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, KS

n The Work of Teamwork: Confl ict Resolution How-To’s

n Money Talks: The Easy Way

n Healthy Practice TPR: Are You Focused on Your Clients?

n What Makes You Different?

n Are You Managing the Hospital or Is It Managing You?

Mary Ann Vande Linde, DVM, Owner

Vande Linde and Associates, Brunswick, GA

mackinac islandveterinary conference

July 13–15, 2014 | Mackinac Island, MI

don’t miss it!Every year since 1887, Grand Hotel has

welcomed countless guests and families to

Mackinac Island, where cars are not allowed

making bikes and horse drawn carriages the

favored modes of transportation. Grand Hotel

offers outstanding accommodations where no

two guest rooms are alike. Grand Hotel has

always embraced its rich history, but kept up

well with the times. Today, guests enjoy modern

amenities while the hotel’s original architecture

and charm have been tastefully preserved. Enjoy

spectacular views of the Straits of Mackinac in

a rocking chair on the world’s longest porch.

You’ll love experiencing all that Grand Hotel and

Mackinac Island have to offer!

VETERINARY

PARASITOLOGY

PRACTICE

MANAGEMENT

12 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

the Michigan Legislature returned from the

traditional Easter break to face a number of

significant issues in a short amount of time.

While your calendar shows over eight months left in

the year, the legislative schedule is more like 40 to 50

session days. Why so few working days for the House

and Senate? The 2014 elections. This year Michigan

will have the largest number of state and federal

offices up for election in recent history. Here is the

preliminary list:

n 110 Members of the House of Representatives

n 38 State Senators

n The Governor, Attorney General, and Secretary

of State

n Three Supreme Court Justices

n All members of Congress (three open seats)

n One open U.S. Senate seat

In addition to the local issues and races, we

expect up to five ballot proposals ranging from

wolf hunting to raising the minimum wage. As a

result, Lansing is in a race to raise money, complete

high-priority legislation, and go home to campaign.

The most immediate legislative issues are the state

budget, Detroit bankruptcy settlement, and a road-

funding package. If these issues, along with about

two dozen other bills, are complete the Legislature

could adjourn by late May.

DR. HANK VAUPEL GAINING SUPPORT

Dr. Hank Vaupel’s campaign to

be the first veterinarian elected

to the Michigan Legislature in

over 30 years is solid and growing

daily. The 47th House District seat

he is seeking includes all but the southeast corner

of Livingston County. Dr. Vaupel is running in the

Republican primary with four other candidates. This

is a roughly 62 percent Republican base district, so

the winner of the Primary will likely be the new state

representative.

While Dr. Vaupel’s credentials and service to the

MVMA and veterinary profession are impressive, he

will bring considerably more to the Legislature. As

a small-business founder, owner, and operator he

has real-life experience in what it takes to pay the

taxes, make payroll, and get paid last at the end of the

month. His elected and appointed service in township

and county government give him a

keen insight into how government

impacts everyday people. Hank’s

farming and equine business add a

sound understanding of agribusi-

ness to his background. Many of

the professions and associations in

Michigan have recognized Hank’s

unique experience and are endorsing him and provid-

ing financial support for his campaign. MVMA and

VET-PAC have supported him from the beginning.

The single most difficult part of running for

public office is asking for personal and financial

support of your campaign. It also takes valuable time

away from the necessary personal time a candidate

needs to invest in meeting and communicating with

voters. To help Hank succeed, many of his friends,

family, and colleagues have already made financial

contributions to his campaign. MVMA has also com-

mitted maximum financial support for Hank through

VET-PAC. Senator Joe Hune and Representative

Cindy Denby from the district have both endorsed

Hank and are providing valuable support. Even one

of Hank’s opponents dropped out of the race and

endorsed his candidacy! What Dr. Vaupel needs now

is a maximum eff ort by the veterinary profession to

help him win on August 5.

Livingston County is home to some great veteri-

narians, but not a great number of veterinarians who

vote. Therefore, the most eff ective way to support

electing a great veterinarian to the Legislature is

through a personal contribution to Dr. Vaupel’s

campaign. It’s easy to do. Just contact the campaign

directly at http://www.votevaupel.com or visit VET-

PAC at http://mivetpac.org. All contributions must be

personal, not corporate. While any contribution will

be helpful and appreciated, the most common con-

tribution to VET-PAC is about $200 as a guide. With a

little more than 90 days to go, time is of the essence.

The chance to celebrate Hank’s election in Howell

on the evening of August 5 may be a once-in-a-

lifetime event for veterinarians and the MVMA. Hope

you can join us and help make it happen.

Legislative UpdateSPRING BREAK ENDS IN LANSING; DR. VAUPEL GAINING SUPPORT

George CarrMVMA Lobbyist

W

th

se

an

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 13

14 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

™NexGard and FRONTLINE VET LABS are trademarks of Merial.©2014 Merial. All rights reserved.

Body Afoxolaner Per Chewables Weight Chewable (mg) Administered

4.0 to 10.0 lbs. 11.3 One

10.1 to 24.0 lbs. 28.3 One

24.1 to 60.0 lbs. 68 One

60.1 to 121.0 lbs. 136 One

Over 121.0 lbs. Administer the appropriate combination of chewables

CAUTION: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.Description:NEXGARD™ (afoxolaner) is available in four sizes of beef-flavored, soft chewables for oral administration to dogs and puppies according to their weight. Each chewable is formulated to provide a minimum afoxolaner dosage of 1.14 mg/lb (2.5 mg/kg). Afoxolaner has the chemical composition 1-Naphthalenecarboxamide, 4-[5- [3-chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl]-4, 5-dihydro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-3-isoxazolyl]-N-[2-oxo-2-[(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)amino]ethyl. Indications:NEXGARD kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis), and the treatment and control of Black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), American Dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), and Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum) infestations in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 4 pounds of body weight or greater, for one month.Dosage and Administration:NEXGARD is given orally once a month, at the minimum dosage of 1.14 mg/lb (2.5 mg/kg).Dosing Schedule:

NEXGARD can be administered with or without food. Care should be taken that the dog consumes the complete dose, and treated animals should be observed for a few minutes to ensure that part of the dose is not lost or refused. If it is suspected that any of the dose has been lost or if vomiting occurs within two hours of administration, redose with another full dose. If a dose is missed, administer NEXGARD and resume a monthly dosing schedule.Flea Treatment and Prevention:Treatment with NEXGARD may begin at any time of the year. In areas where fleas are common year-round, monthly treatment with NEXGARD should continue the entire year without interruption. To minimize the likelihood of flea reinfestation, it is important to treat all animals within a household with an approved flea control product.Tick Treatment and Control:Treatment with NEXGARD may begin at any time of the year (see Effectiveness).Contraindications:There are no known contraindications for the use of NEXGARD.Warnings:Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. In case of accidental ingestion, contact a physician immediately.Precautions:The safe use of NEXGARD in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures (see Adverse Reactions).Adverse Reactions:In a well-controlled US field study, which included a total of 333 households and 615 treated dogs (415 administered afoxolaner; 200 administered active control), no serious adverse reactions were observed with NEXGARD.Over the 90-day study period, all observations of potential adverse reactions were recorded. The most frequent reactions reported at an incidence of > 1% within any of the three months of observations are presented in the following table. The most frequently reported adverse reaction was vomiting. The occurrence of vomiting was generally self-limiting and of short duration and tended to decrease with subsequent doses in both groups. Five treated dogs experienced anorexia during the study, and two of those dogs experienced anorexia with the first dose but not subsequent doses.Table 1: Dogs With Adverse Reactions.

1Number of dogs in the afoxolaner treatment group with the identified abnormality.2Number of dogs in the control group with the identified abnormality. In the US field study, one dog with a history of seizures experienced a seizure on the same day after receiving the first dose and on the same day after receiving the second dose of NEXGARD. This dog experienced a third seizure one week after receiving the third dose. The dog remained enrolled and completed the study. Another dog with a history of seizures had a seizure 19 days after the third dose of NEXGARD. The dog remained enrolled and completed the study. A third dog with a history of seizures received NEXGARD and experienced no seizures throughout the study. To report suspected adverse events, for technical assistance or to obtain a copy of the MSDS, contact Merial at 1-888-637-4251 or www.merial.com/nexgard. For additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, contact FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or online at http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth.Mode of Action:Afoxolaner is a member of the isoxazoline family, shown to bind at a binding site to inhibit insect and acarine ligand-gated chloride channels, in particular those gated by the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), thereby blocking pre- and post-synaptic transfer of chloride ions across cell membranes. Prolonged afoxolaner-induced hyperexcitation results in uncontrolled activity of the central nervous system and death of insects and acarines. The selective toxicity of afoxolaner between insects and acarines and mammals may be inferred by the differential sensitivity of the insects and acarines’ GABA receptors versus mammalian GABA receptors.Effectiveness:In a well-controlled laboratory study, NEXGARD began to kill fleas four hours after initial administration and demonstrated >99% effectiveness at eight hours. In a separate well-controlled laboratory study, NEXGARD demonstrated 100% effectiveness against adult fleas 24 hours post-infestation for 35 days, and was ≥ 93% effective at 12 hours post-infestation through Day 21, and on Day 35. On Day 28, NEXGARD was 81.1% effective 12 hours post-infestation. Dogs in both the treated and control groups that were infested with fleas on Day -1 generated flea eggs at 12- and 24-hours post-treatment (0-11 eggs and 1-17 eggs in the NEXGARD treated dogs, and 4-90 eggs and 0-118 eggs in the control dogs, at 12- and 24-hours, respectively). At subsequent evaluations post-infestation, fleas from dogs in the treated group were essentially unable to produce any eggs (0-1 eggs) while fleas from dogs in the control group continued to produce eggs (1-141 eggs).In a 90-day US field study conducted in households with existing flea infestations of varying severity, the effectiveness of NEXGARD against fleas on the Day 30, 60 and 90 visits compared with baseline was 98.0%, 99.7%, and 99.9%, respectively. Collectively, the data from the three studies (two laboratory and one field) demonstrate that NEXGARD kills fleas before they can lay eggs, thus preventing subsequent flea infestations after the start of treatment of existing flea infestations.In well-controlled laboratory studies, NEXGARD demonstrated >94% effectiveness against Dermacentor variabilis and Ixodes scapularis, 48 hours post-infestation, and against Amblyomma americanum 72 hours post-infestation, for 30 days.Animal Safety:In a margin of safety study, NEXGARD was administered orally to 8- to 9-week-old Beagle puppies at 1, 3, and 5 times the maximum exposure dose (6.3 mg/kg) for three treatments every 28 days, followed by three treatments every 14 days, for a total of six treatments. Dogs in the control group were sham-dosed. There were no clinically-relevant effects related to treatment on physical examination, body weight, food consumption, clinical pathology (hematology, clinical chemistries, or coagulation tests), gross pathology, histopathology or organ weights. Vomiting occurred throughout the study, with a similar incidence in the treated and control groups, including one dog in the 5x group that vomited four hours after treatment.In a well-controlled field study, NEXGARD was used concomitantly with other medications, such as vaccines, anthelmintics, antibiotics (including topicals), steroids, NSAIDS, anesthetics, and antihistamines. No adverse reactions were observed from the concomitant use of NEXGARD with other medications. Storage Information:Store at or below 30°C (86°F) with excursions permitted up to 40°C (104°F).How Supplied:NEXGARD is available in four sizes of beef-flavored soft chewables: 11.3, 28.3, 68 or 136 mg afoxolaner. Each chewable size is available in color-coded packages of 1, 3 or 6 beef-flavored chewables.

NADA 141-406, Approved by FDAMarketed by: Frontline Vet Labs™, a Division of Merial Limited.Duluth, GA 30096-4640 USAMade in Brazil.1050-4493-02Rev. 4/2014

N1 % (n=415) N2 % (n=200)

Vomiting (with and without blood) 17 4.1 25 12.5 Dry/Flaky Skin 13 3.1 2 1.0 Diarrhea (with and without blood) 13 3.1 7 3.5 Lethargy 7 1.7 4 2.0 Anorexia 5 1.2 9 4.5

Treatment Group

Afoxolaner Oral active control

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 15

TOP10REASONSTO BE AN MVMA MEMBER

Don’t forget to renew your MVMA membership! If you pay by July 1,

you will be entered into a drawing to receive a free year of dues. MVMA

is one of the most progressive, passionate and dedicated veterinary

organizations with more than 2,200 veterinarian and student members.

By continuing as a member of MVMA, you are connected with great

ideas and great people. There are many reasons to be a member, but

we thought we’d list the top benefits for you. Check out the Member

Benefits guide on our website at www.michvma.org or watch for the

guide in an issue of The Michigan Veterinarian later this year.

1Savings on things you need. In these chal-

lenging times, you must check out our negotiated

discounts for members! MVMA saves members money

on insurance, office supplies and equipment, x-ray badges,

credit card processing, account collection services, web

services, on-hold messages, printing, car rental, and more.

2Free legal advice. Members can access profes-

sional and personal legal advice over the telephone,

absolutely free.

3Local access to first-rate continuing

education. The Michigan Veterinary Conference,

MVMA’s Small Animal Seminar Series, MVMA’s

Summer Conference, MVMA’s Animal Welfare Conference,

MVMA/MSU CVM’s Joint Wet Labs, and more off er you

outstanding CE at discounted rates for members.

4Veterinary Career Network and employ-

ment assistance. Members looking for employ-

ment can conduct a free nationwide job search

by position, species, or location and receive valuable

advice. Employers can post ads and search for veterinary

professionals. MVMA also has a new section on the website

specifically developed to assist recent graduates.

5Complaint Resolution. All veterinarians oc-

casionally have unhappy clients and these clients

often call MVMA before contacting the Board of

Veterinary Medicine. MVMA’s Ethics and Grievance Com-

mittee oversees client complaints, usually resolving them

before legal or licensure action is initiated.

6MVMA’s Answer Team. MVMA’s “A” Team ex-

pands the traditional mentoring concept to include

mentoring at all stages of a career. Talk to expert

team members about issues dealing with practice manage-

ment, career assistance, litigation, personal development,

human resources or veterinary ethics.

7Model Animal Hospital Personnel Policies

Manual. MVMA created a personnel policies

manual for members that can be customized to fit

your practice. It reflects current Michigan laws and is free

to members.

8Michigan Law for Veterinary Profession-

als. This publication includes information on the

Board of Veterinary Medicine, Public Health Code,

discipline, civil liability, licensing questions, controlled

substances questions, and the Michigan Penal Code—and

it’s all in one place!

9We look out for you. MVMA constantly monitors

the activities of the Board of Veterinary Medicine,

legislative bodies and trends in the veterinary

profession. We have a Legislative Network and the tools

needed to protect you against legislative initiatives or

policy changes negatively aff ecting your profession.

10And the number one benefit of MVMA

membership: access to information. Whether through The Michigan Veterinarian,

E-newsletter, Urgent Issue Broadcasts, website, Facebook,

Twitter, YouTube, or by responding to member telephone

and email inquiries, MVMA keeps members informed

about what they need to know to manage veterinary prac-

tices, keep clients happy, and minimize stress levels.

Not bad for a top ten list. And we’ll keep working to

make sure that we can top this list a year from now. MVMA

is one of the best investments you’ll ever make. Our mem-

bers are defining veterinary practice in Michigan. If you

have any questions, contact us at (517) 347-4710 or mvma@

michvma.org.

Thank you for your support!

—Karlene Belyea, MBA, Chief Executive Offi cer

16 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

n MVMA’s 2014 Power of Ten Leadership

Academy (above) met on March 29–30 for their

first leadership training sessions. Presentations and

interactive sessions included “Self-Awareness as a

Foundation for Successful Leadership—Analysis of

DiSC Behavioral Assessment,” “Communication and

Team Building,” “Generational Diff erences,” and

“Work/Life Balance.” A reunion for the 2012–2014

Power of Ten Academy Members also occurred in

the evening with a panel of presenters including

Dr. James Averill, State Veterinarian; Dr. Therese

Burns, MVMA President; Dr. Chris Rohwer, Chair

of the Board of Veterinary Medicine; Jim Chiodini,

MVMA’s attorney; and Jim Dedyne, MVMA’s account-

ing partner. If you know of individuals interested in

participating in the 2015 Academy, please have them

contact Karlene Belyea at Belyea@michvma.org.

n Drs. Pete Blinkilde

and Steve Edwards (left)

jointly received the Small

Business Person of the Year

Award from the Greenville

Area Chamber of Commerce.

Drs. Blinkilde and Edwards

own Town and Country

Animal Clinic in Greenville.

“Pete has been a mentor

to many students who

have gone on to veterinary

school,” said Edwards,

who nominated his partner

Blinkilde for the award. The awards committee in

turn decided to award the honor to both men. The

two men have taken part in many community events

structured around animal health, including wildlife

rehabilitation, presentations at schools and their

work with the clinic.

n Chelsea Render, an MSU veterinary student,

had a very personal reason for attending Presi-

dent Barack Obama’s visit to MSU on February 7.

She took an 18-month break from her studies to help

lawmakers write the farm bill. Chelsea is excited

to see the Farm Bill’s eff ects, when she becomes a

veterinarian this spring. “I’ll actually see this law,

when it’s implemented, become policy, and actually

aff ect the farms that I’m working on every day, so

that’s even the next step and I think that’s going to

follow me for even longer.” Michigan Senator Debbie

Stabenow played a huge role in the Farm Bill. She’s

the Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a

graduate of MSU.

n The Continuing Veterinary Medical Edu-

cation (CVME) 24/24 Program is a voluntary

program meant to recognize members that have

completed at least 24 hours of continuing education

over the past 24 months. If you have completed 24

hours of CE in 24 months and would like to receive a

certificate from MVMA, please contact us at mvma@

michvma.org. The MVMA commends members who

seek to improve their knowledge and expand their

veterinary skills by obtaining ongoing CE.

Members in the NewsDrs. Charlotte Lucas,

Christina Cooper, Michelle

Meyer, Kristina Miller,

Natalie Neher, Jamie

Morrison, Therese Burns

(MVMA President), Becky

Barr, Lauren Demos, Jessica

Lindahl Parling, Angie Lusty

(Power of Ten Team Leader)

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 17

MVMA’S MEMBER BENEFIT SPOTLIGHT

Have You Visited MVMA’s Website Yet?

if you have a question, it’s our goal to provide you with an answer. As an MVMA mem-

ber you have the opportunity to take advantage of our website, MichVMA.org, full of

resources right at your fingertips!

Information has been organized by member type, making it easier for you to find ex-

actly what you’re looking for. On the MVMA homepage choose the button that fits you

best—Practice Owner, New Doc (for recent graduates), Associate, Practice Staff , and

Students—and click to access resources tailored to who you are and how you practice.

n practice owners: Are you looking for information on how to save money by

taking advantage of member benefits or how to fight illegal veterinary practice

in your area? Visit http://www.michvma.org/page/PracticeOwnerAvatar

n new docs: Are you looking for information on how to negotiate a job contract

or find out about compensation information in your area? Visit http://www.

michvma.org/page/NewDocsAvatar

n associates: Are you looking for resources on minimum standards of practice

or how to start a new business? Visit http://www.michvma.org/page/Associate

Avatar

n office staff: Are you looking for human resource information like sample

job descriptions or standards of practice? Visit http://www.michvma.org/page/

OfficeStaff Avatar

While you’re logged in, make sure your contact information is correct,

browse the site to register for exciting continuing education, and even renew

your MVMA dues. Contact us at mvma@michvma.org or (517) 347-4710 if

you need help logging in, or if you can’t find what you’re looking for on the

website.

A mem-

full of

nd ex-

you

nd

tice.

MVMA’s Veterinary Practice Affi liates

do you have practice managers, veterinary technicians, veteri-

nary assistants, or other veterinary team members who want

to be a part of MVMA? If so, they can now join the MVMA as a

Veterinary Practice Staff Affiliate!

MVMA is one of the most progressive, passionate, and dedicated

veterinary organizations in the country and now our Board of

Directors is opening our doors to other veterinary professionals. By

becoming an MVMA affiliate, your staff will be connected with great

ideas and incredible people using dynamic and creative solutions

you can use in your practice. Have them join us and be inspired!

Did you know that 72% of people who belong to an association

are very satisfied with their jobs compared with fewer than half of

people who don’t belong to one? We can help your staff become

shining stars in your practice with an extensive list of resources

they can use today!

MVMA affiliates receive:

n Access to MVMA’s staff who work for you. Have a question about

Michigan Law or best practices? Call us!

n Opportunities to connect with and utilize the

expertise of over 2,200 MVMA members!

n Special invitations to attend MVMA events

and targeted CE at a discounted rate.

n Free subscriptions to the MVMA Enewslet-

ter and magazine, The Michigan Veterinar-

ian, as well as important email alerts

to keep you informed of pet food recalls,

disease outbreaks, and other urgent issues!

n Access to important information in the Member’s

Only section of michvma.org as well as all of MVMA’s existing

benefit programs!

MVMA is helping to drive the future of veterinary medicine—

and we are here to make your life easier. Visit our website at www.

michvma.org for more information!

please note: In order to become a Veterinary Practice Staff Affiliate, you must have

at least one MVMA veterinarian member at your practice.

ALL THESEBENEFITS & MOREFOR ONLY $76PER YEAR!

18 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

Scripts to Improve Your Communication Skills

Wendy S. Myers

beyond the front desk, communication skills are

equally important for every team member. When

you communicate with confidence, more clients will

accept the care that their pets need. Here are excerpts from

my new book, 101 Communication Skills for Veterinary Teams:

Speak with confidence over the phone and in exam room

conversations. Share these scripts with your team so you

can be eff ective communicators . . .

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 19

1Deliver a welcoming phone

greeting. Oftentimes greetings

are so rapid-fire that it’s hard to

understand the name of the business or

employee. Even though receptionists re-

peat the greeting hundreds of times each

day, it creates a first impression with call-

ers every time. Let callers hear the smile

in your voice and eagerness to help. Slow

down and enunciate your words rather

than sounding like you’ve just finished a

triple espresso.

Answer the phone promptly—first

ring is best. Never go beyond three rings.

The longer your phone rings, the less

important your caller feels. An eff ective

phone greeting includes a salutation,

business name, employee’s name, and an

invitation for service. Say, “Thank you for

calling <Your Veterinary Hospital>. This is

<your name>. How may I help you?”

2Answering a call while you’re

helping a visiting client. Let’s

say a client is standing at the front

desk with her credit card in hand and

your phone rings. You need to make the

client and caller feel equally important.

Tell the client, “Will you please excuse me

for a moment so I can place this caller on

hold and then keep helping you?”

Answer the phone, “Thank you for

calling <Your Veterinary Hospital>.

This is <your name>. Is this a medical

emergency, or are you able to hold while

I finish checking out another client?” The

word “finish” tells the caller that the wait

time will be brief. A client ready to check-

out will be thankful that you’re respectful

of her time as well.

3Transferring a call. Don’t say,

“Please hold while I transfer you.”

The words “hold” and “transfer”

could have negative eff ects. Instead, use

positive words that show action. Say, “Let

me connect you with the surgery techni-

cian, <employee name>.”

The word “connect” shows action.

You’ve also let the caller know which

employee will assist her. Explain the pur-

pose of the call to the surgery technician

before he picks up the line. The front-

desk employee would tell the technician,

“I have Mrs. Myers on Line 2, who is

calling for a surgical update on Caymus,

a cat that is being neutered today.” Then

the technician can be prepared to greet

the caller by name and provide the latest

information.

When the technician picks up the call,

he would say, “Hello, Mrs. Myers. This is

Eric, the surgery technician. Susan ex-

plained that you’re calling for an update

on Caymus. Let me tell you how surgery

went . . .” This hand-off shows your team

works together to provide exceptional

patient care and client experiences.

4When clients call to make

appointments, check the

reminder status of all pets

in the family. Open the client’s record

in your practice-management software so

you can check the reminder status of all

pets in the family, not just the one she’s

scheduling an exam for today. Let’s say

you view the client’s record and discover

a second dog is overdue for preventive

care.

Respond with, “We’d love to see

Mason for his preventive care exam. Did

you know that Rocky also is overdue? He

needs a preventive care exam, vaccines,

heartworm/tick screen, intestinal parasite

screen, and preventatives. You can bring

Mason and Rocky to the same appoint-

ment. Which day of the week works

best for you? Do you prefer a morning or

afternoon appointment?”

Once the client responds with a prefer-

ence for the day of the week and time

of day, off er two choices. Known as the

two-yes-options technique, this phrasing

signifi cantly increases the chance you’ll

schedule the appointment. Say, “When

would you like to schedule exams for

Mason and Rocky? We have an appoint-

ment on Tuesday at 9 or 11 a.m. Which fits

your schedule?”

5When clients request medical

records, find out why they

are leaving your practice. Say,

“We would be happy to provide copies of

your pets’ medical records. Our hospital

strives to provide exceptional patient care

and client service. May I ask why you’re

leaving our hospital?”

If the client is moving, say, “We hope

your family and pets enjoy your new

home. I will staple our business card to

your pets’ medical records. If your new

veterinarian has questions about the care

that we’ve provided, he or she is welcome

to contact us. If you move back to our

community, we’d love to welcome you

back to our hospital.”

If the client is leaving due to poor ser-

vice, say, “We want to find a solution that

you’re happy with. Let’s talk about what

we can do to resolve the problem. We

would like the opportunity to continue to

provide veterinary care for your pets.”

6Collect clients’ emails.

Industry research shows 30 percent

of people change their email ad-

dresses annually,1 and the average person

has three email accounts.2 How you ask

for clients’ email addresses matters. Don’t

say, “Can I get your email?” Instead, use

benefit statements that will have them

gladly volunteering their email addresses.

Say, “Our practice is going green and

sending more reminders by email. We

want to be able to quickly notify you

about pet health alerts such as a pet food

recall or a rabies outbreak in our area.

You also can access Jake’s reminders and

request prescription refills and appoint-

ments through our website. Which email

would be the best for you to receive Jake’s

reminders?”

20 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

After three years of collecting cli-

ents’ emails, most practices have cap-

tured 60 to 70 percent. Strive to get 70

percent or higher. Each month, monitor

the number of emails you’ve collected

and share results with your team.

7Greeting clients in the exam

room. When greeting clients

in exam rooms, technicians or

assistants should introduce themselves,

shake hands and explain their role.

Say, “Good morning, I’m <your name>,

the technician who will be assisting Dr.

<name>. For your preventive care visit,

we will do a nose-to-tail exam, vaccines,

heartworm/tick screen, intestinal

parasite screen, and refill 12 months of

parasite preventatives. I will take a brief

history, collect samples for testing, and

get your pet’s temperature, pulse, and

respiration. Then the doctor will begin

the exam. Is there anything else you

want to discuss with the doctor?”

Say “vaccines” instead of specific

ones. Based on exam findings, the vet-

erinarian may add or subtract vaccines.

Saying “We will refill” encourages 12

months of parasite protection. Asking

“Is there anything else you want to dis-

cuss with the doctor?” identifies “Oh,

yeah . . . could you also check . . . ?”

Many well pets have a sick-pet prob-

lem—ears, skin, and dental disease—so

identify questions at the beginning of

the exam so the doctor can prioritize

the order of concerns to be addressed.

8Give clients your business

card. Business cards are equally

important for staff and doctors.

When a technician admits a patient for

dentistry, she would tell the client, “I

will call you after 1 p.m. to update you

on Buff y’s dental procedure. If you have

questions before then, please call and

ask for me. Here’s my card.” Providing

business cards instills client confidence,

boosts pride in staff , helps receptionists

quickly connect calls, and may generate

new clients if passed along.

Veterinarians also should provide

business cards, especially to new

clients. Let clients know when patients

need to return next. Say, “We will see

Max again in six months for his next

preventive care exam, intestinal para-

site screen, and Bordetella vaccine. If

you have questions before then, be sure

to call. We’re always happy to help.

Here’s my business card.” Watch my

video on the importance of business

cards at www.YouTube.com/csvets.

9Say “need” instead of

“recommend.” Telling a client,

“I’d recommend that you get your

pet’s teeth cleaned within the next year”

is wishy-washy. “Recommend” sounds

optional and has no medical urgency.

Be firm and confident when

presenting the diagnosis. Replace

“recommend” with “needs” to com-

municate the importance of treatment.

The veterinarian would tell the client,

“Buttons has Grade 3 dental disease.

She needs dental treatment now to

slow the progression of her dental

disease and treat her oral infection. As

her dental disease gets worse, serious

health problems can happen. It’s com-

mon for pets to get painful abscesses

or a toothache that causes them to eat

less or not at all. Bacteria in the mouth

can pass through the bloodstream

and permanently damage the kidneys,

heart, liver, and lungs. I will have my

technician explain Button’s dental

procedure and also talk with you about

easy home-care products.”

10Provide treatment

plans for surgery, den-

tistry, and hospitalized

cases before admission. A treat-

ment plan accomplishes four goals: (1)

Explains needed medical care, (2)

gives you legal permission to treat,

(3) estimates the cost of care, and (4)

states payment and deposit policies.

A financial policy might state:

“Payment is due when services are

provided. Deposits may be required for

emergencies, infectious disease cases,

and new clients. For your convenience,

we accept cash, checks, and major

credit cards. We off er CareCredit, a pay-

ment plan for qualifying clients.”

Even when a favorite client says,

“Just do everything,” provide a written

treatment plan. Clients don’t want sur-

prises at checkout, nor do you want to

argue over fees. Always get signatures

because this gives you legal permis-

sion to treat patients and has clients

accept fees. Keep original signed

consent forms and give clients copies

to take home. Say, “In order to get your

legal permission to schedule/proceed

with treatment, I need your signature

on the treatment plan. We will keep a

copy with your pet’s medical record,

and I’ll also give you a copy to take

home so you have information on the

services and fees that we discussed

today.”

REFERENCES

1. Baer J, 15 email statistics that are shaping

the future. Accessed at http://www.

convinceandconvert.com/email-marketing-

advice/15-email-statistics-that-are-shaping-

the-future/ on December 30, 2013.

2. Stadd A, The average social networker

manages 3 email addresses, posted July 11,

2013. Accessed at http://www.mediabistro.

com/alltwitter/social-media-overwhelmed_

b46165 on December 30, 2013.

Wendy S. Myers owns

Communication Solutions

for Veterinarians and

is a partner in Animal

Hospital Specialty Center,

a 10-doctor AAHA-

accredited referral practice

in Highlands Ranch, Colo.

She helps teams improve

compliance and client service through consulting,

seminars and webinars. You can reach her at

wmyers@csvets.com or www.csvets.com.

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 21

A Teaching Opportunity at MSU CVM!

hello, my name is Ann Rashmir and I

will be coordinating “VIPS” again this

year. As you may already know, “VIPS”

is short for “Veterinary Integrative Problem-

Solving,” and is a sophomore course in the

DVM curriculum. Many of you have already

facilitated in previous years helping to make

this one of the students’ favorite courses.

In VIPS, students work in groups of

7–8 in a “problem-based learning” format,

discussing real clinical cases that integrate

and apply concepts learned in other

courses within the veterinary curriculum.

The case discussions not only expand the

students’ knowledge base and deepen their

understanding of concepts, but also help to

develop problem-solving, clinical reasoning,

and communication skills.

There is a diff erent clinical case each

week, and groups meet for 1 hour on

Monday morning and 1 hour on Wednesday

morning. A facilitator guides the student-led

discussion, helping to keep things on track

and throwing in helpful hints along the way.

And this is where you come in: I’m invit-

ing you to be a facilitator.

Facilitators include MSU faculty, interns,

residents, fourth-year veterinary students,

and veterinarians from outside MSU. Over

100 diff erent Michigan veterinarians have

volunteered as facilitators in the past 12

years. Most truly enjoy their interactions

with the enthusiastic second-year vet stu-

dents (that’s why many volunteer year after

year). And many also say they have learned

a thing or two from the students or cases.

The time commitment for being a facilita-

tor for one group and one case discussion is

2 hours (1 hour each of two mornings, as in-

dicated above), not counting your travel and

prep time. All the information you need—a

Facilitator Guide, the week’s case (with

answers to guiding questions), information

on your students, room location, and park-

ing—will be provided via e-mail or through

a link to the CVM website. I realize such a

commitment is significant considering your

busy schedule, but students truly appreciate

the perspective the real-world DVM brings

to the case discussions. I encourage you to

contribute to the education of your future

colleagues!

If you are interested in volunteering as a

facilitator, please contact me at (517) 703-4016

(cell), (517) 355-8491 (office) or rashmir@

cvm.msu.edu. I will add you to the facilitator

list, and send you the specific case topics

and dates for fall semester 2014. You can

choose as many or as few dates as you wish.

I can also send you more information about

problem-based learning, VIPS, examples of

the VIPS cases, etc. Thank you very much!

—Ann Rashmir, DVM, MS, DACVS, MSU CVM

“Science, Animals, Medicineand YOU!” Is Coming to a Fair Near You!

Summer is an exciting time in Michigan. The sun is out, the kids are home, and

county fairs dot the map across the state! This year the MVMA and MSU CVM

are once again embarking on an educational endeavor that is traveling across

our amazing state to educate fair-goers of all ages about the profession we love.

SAMY will have two teams of student coordinators for this unique exhibit. The

Lansing team will be Rebecca de Castellanos (CVM Class of 2016) and Andrea Walker

(CVM Class of 2017). The outreach team will be Carrie Szybisty (CVM Class of 2016)

and Jaymee Cicchelli (CVM Class of 2016).

Our student coordinators are excited to have the opportunity to share our profes-

sion with so many people and to provide in-depth educational opportunities for

fair-goers. They are also very eager to meet with veterinary colleagues! Please visit

the SAMY website at http://scienceanimalsmedicineandyou.com to check out the tour

schedule and find out if they will be in your area or email us at samy@cvm.msu.edu

or mvmasamy@gmail.com. We hope to see you this summer!

Animal Welfare Committee Partners with MDARD

in response to concerns about animal welfare at

county fairs, the MVMA Animal Welfare Commit-

tee has recently worked with MDARD to deliver

animal welfare content to fair leadership. Initially,

our representatives led an interactive session at the

January Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibi-

tions (MAFE) Annual Meeting. Shortly thereafter,

MDARD held its new fair veterinarian workshop. Most

recently, Drs. Marcie Barber and Jim Kober each led a

session at the MAFE Spring Workshop in conjunction

with MDARD who also delivered content on disease

outbreak, biosecurity, and fair requirements.

Dr. Kober’s content focused on swine welfare with

an emphasis on keeping pigs cool during the fair. Dr.

Barber provided a comparative backyard chicken wel-

fare scenario. The presentations were well-attended

and prompted energetic dialogue amongst those in

attendance. The MAFE has since created an Animal

Committee that plans to address animal related is-

sues associated with fairs and exhibitions.

—Marcie Barber, DVM; Chair, MVMA Animal Welfare Committee

left to right:

Jaymee Cicchelli,

Rebecca de

Castellanos,

Carrie Szybisty,

and Andrea

Walker

22 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

classifi ed ads veterinarians wanted

Associate veterinarian wanted PT for small-animal hos-

pital in Waterford, MI. We are looking for a compassion-

ate, skilled person for our well-established practice for

2½ days a week, plus occasional fill-in during vacations.

Duties include general outpatient care, in-hospital pa-

tient evaluation, workups, and surgery. Experience pre-

ferred. Competitive salary, no after-hours emergency

calls. Please send résumé and cover letter to wvhvet@

aol.com.

Veterinarian wanted for a 2-doctor small-animal prac-

tice near Ann Arbor. The position is open only to per-

sons seriously interested in purchasing the practice if

a smooth transition is assured. Hospital is on approxi-

mately 3 acres, owner can finance, new graduate con-

sidered. Approximate gross is $690K. noahvet@att.net;

NoahsArkPetHospital.com.

Modern, established small-animal hospital near Lake

Orion, MI is looking to hire a full-/part-time associate.

We have a great support staff and the latest up-to-date

equipment. For information call 586/489-7821 or email

wonindy90@hotmail.com.

Veterinarian wanted for our busy, well-staff ed practice in

sunny South Lyon, MI, just west of Novi. Part-time. Must

be up-to-date: CE is big here. Congenial, please—we have

a wonderful staff and a wonderful clientele and we take

good care of them. Must be ready to eat free pizza at our

weekly staff meetings! Contact the clinic at 248/437-1765

or call my cell in confidence at 248/790-6800 or email

dandyacres@yahoo.com. Thank you, Terry McCarthy!

F/T or P/T DVM to join dedicated, compassionate, client

service-oriented team at Livonia Veterinary Hospital or

Royal Oak Animal Hospital. Submit letter and résumé to

roanimalhospital@gmail.com.

Opportunity for new DVM grad with thriving MI feline

practice. Join a thriving feline practice in Birmingham,

an affluent suburb of Oakland County, MI. The Cat Prac-

tice has been caring for cats from around SE Michigan

for more than 30 years. We are seeing more cats living

20 years and more. Our practice emphasizes early detec-

tion and disease prevention leading to greater longevity

and quality of life. We are known for our care and treat-

ment of serious illnesses and chronic feline conditions.

Email résumé and cover letter to jobs@thecatpracticepc

.com.

VIP PetCare seeks licensed veterinarians to work as in-

dependent contractors, providing aff ordable, high-qual-

ity care to pets at our non-emergency weekend clinics in

Michigan. Please visit our website at http://vippetcare.

theresumator.com/apply/xFWNzI/Independent-Contractor

-Veterinarians.html?source=MVMA.

Ann Arbor Animal Hospital Emergency Service is in

search of an emergency veterinarian for our growing

small-animal hospital. Our 29,000 SF, state-of-the-art,

AAHA-certified facility, is located on the west side of Ann

Arbor, MI, where we have been practicing medicine for

nearly 80 years. We off er primary care services during

the day, Monday through Saturday, and run our ER 24

hours, 365 days/year. As an ER veterinarian, the sched-

ule will be overnights, weekends, and holidays. Patient

care, teamwork, and a client-centered focus are empha-

sized at our hospital leading to a positive work environ-

ment for all. We are committed to the ideal candidate’s

professional growth, development, and career satisfac-

tion. The competitive compensation package includes

a salary, continuing education, and comprehensive

benefits, including SIMPLE IRA, license and associa-

tion dues, etc. Health insurance is available to full-time

employees. Our unique position in the metro Ann Arbor

area makes our hospital a personally and professionally

rewarding opportunity. Our ideal candidate has com-

pleted a rotating small-animal internship or minimum 2

years of experience. Please submit your cover letter and

résumé to dcaddell@annarboranimalhospital.com.

Looking for a veterinarian needing to practice high-qual-

ity medicine. Must have a personable bedside manner,

finely developed communication skills, and be able to

promote healthcare services in the best interest of the

patient and their families at all times. Will received

flexible scheduling, generous benefits, family-friendly

atmosphere, and a rewarding career at a small-animal,

avian, and exotic AAHA-accredited hospital. Please send

résumé to Warren Woods Veterinary Hospital, 29157

Schoenherr, Warren, MI 48088, or email Dr. Cappel at

jacappel@wwvhcares.com.

We are looking for a full- or part-time small-animal associ-

ate in our mixed-animal practice in Fowlerville. Experience

is preferred. We are a busy and progressive practice: dig-

ital x-rays, in-house blood work, ultrasound, wide range

of surgical procedures, etc. Send résumés to fowlervillev

@sbcglobal.net.

We are looking for an associate veterinarian with at

least 3 years’ experience to join our team. Applicant

should have a good blend of medical, surgical, and

people skills. Our well-established practice has 2 loca-

tions in a very desirable area of metropolitan Detroit.

We see a diverse caseload and focus on preventative

health care and long lasting relationships with our cli-

ents and their pets. We off er extended hours to fulfill

the needs of our client’s busy schedules. Our practice

is fully integrated with IDEXX; Cornerstone practice

software, in-house chemistry and blood count analyz-

ers, and CR digital radiograph systems. We will off er

a competitive salary and benefits package based on

experience. There is a very good opportunity to buy

into our practice for the right individual. Please email

your résumé and 3 references to vetbreckenridge

@absglobal.net.

Part-time veterinarian needed for well-established (35

years) small-animal, appointment-only practice in Bur-

ton, MI. Licensed technicians, vet-test, laser-cyte, up-to-

classifi ed ads& relief vets date pain management and anesthesia protocols, sur-

geries, blood pressure, pulse Ox and EKG monitoring.

Please email reesevet@sbcglobal.net.

We are looking for a full-time or part-time veterinar-

ian, preferably experienced, for our busy practice in

Southfield, MI. Our 6000+ SF fully equipped state-of-

the-art hospital is devoted to practicing high-quality

medicine. We off er excellent salary and benefits pack-

age. Please send résumé to jsahota@live.com or call

734/306-7781.

Animal welfare organization seeks veterinarian(s) for

part-time, low-cost spay and neuter services in our clin-

ic. High-volume ability, high-quality desired. Workload

varies, compensation negotiable. Respond with résumé

and cover letter to “Vet Search,” Humane Animal Treat-

ment Society, PO Box 732, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0732.

Combine high-quality medicine, benefits, and flexible

schedules for a great quality of life! Banfield currently

has full- and part-time relief veterinarian positions avail-

able in the southeast MI area as well as Saginaw. Practice

human-quality medicine with the latest technology—in-

house lab, EKG, and more—with a caring, well-trained

team. Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive salary, and

great benefits including 401(k), CE, discounts, and more.

Visit www.banfield.net to learn more. Contact 503/922-

7183 or heidi.burkley@banfield.net to apply today.

Wanted: Full-time or part-time veterinarian for AAHA-

certified small-animal hospital in Dearborn Heights,

MI. Experienced support staff . We are looking for a per-

sonable, practical, professional practitioner. Call Rick

Caputo, DVM at 313/562-8810.

Progressive small-animal clinic in southeast MI seeks

friendly, caring veterinarian. Established practice, re-

cently remodeled and expanded. Fully equipped with

digital x-ray, surgical laser, therapeutic laser, full lab,

and a well-trained support staff . We also off er flexible

hours. There are nearby emergency and specialty clin-

ics for referrals. Send inquiries and résumé to fival@

sbcglobal.net.

Small-animal practice in Traverse City, MI, looking for

compassionate, team-oriented veterinarian. Services

include preventative care, soft tissue surgery, spay/neu-

ter, radiology, dentistry, and ultrasound. We have phar-

macy and in-house catalyst, lasercyte, snap reader. No

emergency. Contact Dr. Schopp at 231/330-5661.

LVTs wanted

Our dynamic practice is seeking a part-time LVT in Glad-

win, MI. Applicants should be self-motivated and ver-

satile. Employment may include some Saturday hours.

If you are looking to fully utilize your technician skills,

contact us at m18veterinary@yahoo.com.

Cat Care of Rochester Hills is accepting applications for

an experienced full-time licensed veterinary technician.

We are a full service, feline-only facility with an empha-

sis on patient care and client communication. We have

a great team and are looking for an enthusiastic person

to join us. We off er a comprehensive benefits package

which includes health insurance, retirement contribu-

tions, paid CE, paid holidays, vacation and sick time. A

current license by the State of Michigan is a requirement

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 23

passionate care. This AAHA-accredited hospital off ers

many opportunities for a self-motivated, energetic and

compassionate person to utilize their technical talents

and learn new skills. To be eligible, applicants must be

a LVT or have several years of experience. We off er com-

petitive benefits including health and 401(k). For more

information on our center, we invite you to visit us at

www.animalneurology.com or contact Angie Heighton at

angie@animalneurology.com, 248/960-7200.

LVT wanted for a progressive multi-doctor practice in

Livonia, MI. We have a great staff and excellent clien-

tele, competitive salary, benefits, continuing education,

and flexible hours are available. Email or fax résumé to

levanvet@levanvet.com or 734/464-7203, Attn: Nancy.

office staff wanted

Front Desk Help: Dandy Acres Animal Hospital is looking

for part-time front desk people for our busy clinic in sun-

ny South Lyon. Must be a hard worker and a team player.

Experience is a plus. Must enjoy animals, of course, as

you will be surrounded by them! Google us, then stop

in any time with a résumé and 3 references (names

and phone numbers of people who have supervised

you). Contact the clinic at 248/437-1765 or call my cell

in confidence at 248/790-6800 or email dandyacres@

yahoo.com. Ask for Terry. Hope to see you soon!

practices & equipment for sale

Small-animal practice for sale in the northern Lower

Peninsula area. Annual revenue $620,000. Great oppor-

tunity for growth. Purchase practice and real estate for

$525K. Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt

Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@tpsgsales.com.

Small-animal practice for sale on the western Michigan

lakeshore. Annual revenue $500K. Very profitable prac-

tice in a lakefront community. Practice and RE off ered at

$525K. Contact Total Practice Solutions Group, Dr. Kurt

Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@tpsgsales.com.

Western Upper Peninsula practice for sale. Gross $425K.

Practice, real estate, and home off ered at only $450K.

This is a great opportunity—contact Total Practice Solu-

tions Group, Dr. Kurt Liljeberg, 800/380-6872, or kurt@

tpsgsales.com.

When buying or selling a veterinary practice, rely on the

expertise of the Total Practice Solutions Group. See our

display ad this issue. Even if you plan to sell your practice

yourself, contact Dr. Kurt Liljeberg for a free consultation.

We would be happy to help. 800/380-6872 or kurt@

tpsgsales.com.

Bay County, MI: This small-animal clinic is located near

residential areas and active shopping centers. 2,500 SF

facility on ¹⁄3 acre RE, 2 exam rooms. This is a great prac-

tice with room to grow! MI1. PS Broker, Inc. 800/636-

4740; PSBroker.com; info@psbroker.com.

30+ year practice for sale: $375K. Full turnkey operation

including excellent RE, inventory and equipment on a

1+ acre in southwest MI. Ideal for adding services and/

or expanding existing nearby practice. Contact Joseph

Ertel, DVM, CBI at 863/646-9044, www.BrokerDoc.com.

1977 MSU graduate retiring! Selling 2,000 SF free-stand-

ing veterinary hospital. Sale includes practice, real es-

tate, equipment, inventory. Excellent location in upscale

Oakland County, MI. Wonderful clients, safe neighbor-

hood, top-notch schools. Turnkey opportunity! Contact

Donna, davgray@sbcglobal.net.

Listing wanted. Buyers waiting. Valuations, consulta-

tions. Find out what the practice is worth—I can help.

Contact Dr. Fred Zydeck, broker, at 248/891-3934 or

email fzydeck@aol.com.

Building for lease: Small-animal clinic office established

for 16 years. Lobby, office, exam room, supply, room, op-

erating room, kennel and laundry room, x-ray room and

bathroom. Located on state highway in Sandusky, MI;

great traffic. 810/648-8209.

Clinic for sale in rural residential area between Kalama-

zoo and Grand Rapids. Solo for 36 years, mixed practice

until 2001; equine potential still possible. 2,600 SF on

2½ acres. 2 exam rooms, full surgery, radiology, and lab.

Flexible price. Email countrysidevc@aol.com.

Long established (1967) companion-animal practice for

sale in northern lower MI. Single DVM practice working 4

days per week. Gross in 2013: $1M. Sale with our without

3,600 SF clinic, residence, and 60+ acre farm. Full lab,

ultrasound, 7-station computer system, etc. Separate

building for storage and boarding. Owner financing and

help with transition available. Serious inquiries only,

tmbdvm@charter.net.

for the position. Please email cover letter and résumé to

catcarepc@aolcom.

Ann Arbor Animal Hospital has an amazing staff and

highly respected and loved doctors with a focus on the

special relationship created by people and pets. Due

to continuing growth, we are currently recruiting highly

skilled ER LVTs and daytime LVTs for our busy hospital.

As an experienced technician, you are the key to our

client/patient-centered practice. We are staff ed with

doctors and a support team 7 days a week, 24 hours a

day, off ering strong continuity of care for our patients.

Competitive compensation including health insur-

ance, paid vacation and personal days, CE, SIMPLE

IRA, pet care discount, uniforms, dues, etc. Please

visit our website at www.AnnArborAnimalHospital.com

for more information about our practice. Please send

cover letter and résumé to David Caddell at dcaddell@

annarboranimalhospital.com.

Technicians and assistants: Northern Michigan’s only

24/7 emergency hospital continues to expand. Bay

Area Pet Hospital is accepting applications for FT tech-

nicians and assistants. Qualified applicants must have

2+ years of clinical experience. Check us out at www.

bayareapethospitals.com. Our hospital is located in

beautiful Traverse City, MI. Send résumé to Kismet at

chuck_kismet@charter.net.

Seeking LVT with great technical and client skills who

can be a team player in our growing practice. Our clinic

is equipped with ultrasound, endoscopy, laser, and we

perform many orthopedic procedures. Full-time with

benefits: health, CE, vacation, and sick time. Salary

commensurate with experience. 45 minutes from Ann Ar-

bor and Toledo. Check out our facility at tecvet.com. Call

Edward W. Tritt, DVM at 517/423-2911 or email résumé to

edwardtritt@yahoo.com.

Northern Michigan Veterinary Hospital is seeking a

full-time LVT to work in our fast-paced small-animal

hospital. Candidate must be self-motivated, organized,

and have an attention to detail with a commitment to

exemplary patient care and customer service. Please for-

ward your résumé, cover letter, and references to kara@

traverseanimalhospital.com.

LVT needed for small-animal hospital in Kalamazoo, MI.

Duties include anesthesia, surgical assistance, nursing,

radiology, and clinical laboratory work. Résumé: Kalam-

azoo Animal Hospital, 6039 S. Westnedge Ave., Portage,

MI 49002; tel 269/760-4056; fax 269/323-3636; email

ronaldmoilesdvm@gmail.com.

We are looking for an experienced veterinary techni-

cian for our state-of-the-art veterinary hospital located

in Southfield, MI. This applicant must be a self-starter

with an interest in small animal medicine, client educa-

tion, and team building. Suitable candidate will be a LVT

or equivalent experience in surgical, dental, lab, and

nursing care. We are open 7 days a week, so morning,

evening, and weekend shifts are available. Please send

your résumé to michiganvet@yahoo.com.

Overnight technicians: Animal ER Center, located in

Commerce, MI, is seeking FT and PT overnight techni-

cians to join our team. If you have a passion for patient

care, this is the place for you! We are 3 centers, one

place, bringing together advanced medicine and com-

24 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

relief veterinariansDouglas Bandkau, DVM, 989/666-2862. MSU 79. SA

relief and part-time, SW Michigan. Medicine, surgery,

dentistry; I enjoy working in a team atmosphere.

Deborah Baron (Allen), DVM, 313/595-7490. MSU 98.

SA relief, SE Michigan. Emergency/critical care, general

medicine, soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, exotics. Excel-

lent patient care, client communication, and records.

Will follow practice guidelines. drdeb98@gmail.com.

Norman Bayne, DVM, MS, 248/506-1104. MSU 81. SA re-

lief work in southeast MI. Will travel. Friendly, excellent

client communications skills. norman@baynevet.com.

Kirsten Begin, DVM, 616/446-3154. MSU 09. SA relief in

Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. Will travel. Friend-

ly, excellent client communication. References. Completed

rotating and surgical internships. kbegin4@gmail.com. 

Sharisse Berk, DVM, 248/851-0739. MSU 95. Available

for SA relief or part-time work in southeast MI. 

Rhonda Bierl, DVM, 248/467-1987. MSU 00. SA/

emergency relief within 1 hour of Pontiac. General

medicine, soft-tissue surgery, ultrasound experience.

houserrh@yahoo.com.

Archie Black, DVM, 248/417-2667. MSU 83. SA relief,

entire state. Practice owner for 20 years. Excellent com-

municator. vetdocblack@ameritech.net.

Aimee Cochell, DVM, 616/558-4905. Ross 01. Available

for SA relief in Grand Rapids area. Willing to travel. Good

client communication skills. References. abcochell@

comcast.net.

Kenneth Corino, DVM, 248/217-5235. MSU 94. SA relief

work.  SE MI, medicine and surgery.  corinodvm@aol.

com.

Nichole Corner, DVM, 616/634-9777. MSU 99. SA

relief work in Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo area. Excel-

lent client communication skills. References avail-

able. haweslake@charter.net.

Jennifer M. Dec, DVM, 248/224-1990. MSU 04. Small-

animal general practice and emergency relief. Sur-

gery, ultrasound, and excellent communication skills, 

drrockstarbc@gmail.com.

Daniel Deciechi, 810/394-7412. MSU 03. 10-year ER

practice owner available for relief/part-time. Willing to

travel. Enjoy the practice variety of relief work. drdeciechi

@gmail.com

Susan Drapek, DVM, CVA, 517/663-0428. MSU 90. Avail-

able within two hours of Lansing. Relief experience since

1997. Small-animal medicine, surgery, and acupuncture.

smdrapekdvm@sbcglobal.net.

Theresa Driscoll, DVM, 517/927-3831. MSU 00. Avail-

able for SA relief or short term. Experienced and depend-

able. Reference. teddvm@yahoo.com.

Ronan Eustace, DVM, 502/409-3245. WCVM 10. SA/

emergency, available within 2 hours of Lansing. Friendly,

excellent client-communication. References. Completed

rotating internship, worked ER/shelter medicine last two

years. ronan_eustace@yahoo.com.

Marj Field, DVM, 734/658-4774. MSU 90. SA/exotic/

emergency relief work in southeastern MI. Excellent cli-

ent service, comfortable surgeon, high ACT, and able

to multi task. Extended travel can be negotiated. marj.

field@me.com.

Megan Grant, DVM, 517/203-8068. MSU 09. Complete,

compassionate, and progressive relief veterinary ser-

vices servicing northwestern lower MI. Small-animal only.

Please visit www.TCpetvet.com for more information.

Edward Greene, DVM, 517/812-1540. MSU 59. SA relief.

Competent medical/surgical skills. Cheerful interactions

with your clients and staff . Your practice procedures

adhered to. LuckyPetVet@comcast.net.

Lisa Harris, DVM, 616/261-4743. MSU 89. Available for

relief in Grand Rapids/Lakeshore area. Experienced SA

medicine and surgery, avian, exotics. Friendly, good

communicator. drllharris@gmail.com.

Sean D. Hughes, DVM, 517/552-0993; 734/674-7061.

MSU 76. SE Michigan SA relief since 1999. Part-

time. Prefer SE; will travel for right circumstances.

HughesDVM@aol.com.

Jill Haver-Crissman, DVM, 989/631-2790 or 989/297-

8594. Ontario 80. SA relief or part-time. Medicine, soft

tissue surgery, ultrasound. Works well with others. Not

available Wednesdays. jhcrissman@gmail.com.

Cindy Kalicki, DVM, 313/291-2466. MSU 94. Eight years

full-time, two years relief in SA general medicine/soft tis-

sue surgery. SE MI, part-time or relief. 

Charlotte Kim, DVM, 517/643-4069. MSU 08. SA relief

work in SE Michigan. Soft tissue surgery and medicine.

Friendly and dependable. kimcharl0824@gmail.com

Joan Koelzer, DVM, 616/437-6415. MSU 85. SA medicine

and surgery, single-day relief, Grand Rapids/west MI.

Skilled in diffi cult spay and neuters. jekoelzer@yahoo.

com.

Delta Leeper, DVM, 248/396-7525. MSU 03. Part-time

or relief, SE Michigan.  Cats and dogs only; medicine,

dentistry, routine surgeries.  Internship trained, good

communicator, team player. catdrdelta@hotmail.com.

Mike Lin, DVM, 269/743-7770 or 269/348-1145. MSU

97. SA part-time or relief work in Kalamazoo/Grand Rap-

ids and surrounding areas. Surgery, general medicine,

and emergency experience. Excellent client communica-

tion skills. maddisondog@hotmail.com.

Selena Lucas, DVM, 734/330-5048. KSU 90. Flexible and

friendly, excellent client communication skills. Proficient

in surgery, medicine, and dentistry. Available in SE Michi-

gan. slucasdvm@gmail.com.

Valerie Mahoney, DVM, 217/766-6155. Illinois 03. SA

relief in SE Michigan, including Saturdays and Sundays.

Strong surgical skills, high medical standards. Enjoy

working with clients. References available. Petdoc03@

gmail.com.

Richard M. Mieczkowski, DVM, 734/735-2279. MSU

71. Relief, experience, competent, dependable, small-

animal, references, north Oakland County and vicinity.

rmackj@aol.com.

Denise Jorgensen Montagna, DVM, 231/557-1536.

CSU 90. SA relief or part-time in western MI. Excellent

client relations. References available. djmontagnadvm@

charter.net.

Peggy Newman, DVM, 616/570-1101. MSU 75. 32-year

mid-Michigan practice owner. SA medicine and surgery.

Seeking relief work in mid- and west MI. docpeghoort@

hotmail.com.

Kris Parnell, DVM, 517/881-2845. MSU 91. Available for

SA relief or part-time. Will travel 1 hour of Lansing area.

References upon request. kparnelldvm@comcast.net.

Christine Parker, DVM, 616/866-1965. MSU 88.

Available for SA relief or short-term. Experienced and

dependable. References available. Will travel. cparker@

wmis.net.

Patricia Partridge, DVM, 231/938-9338. MSU 70. SA re-

lief, PT or FT. Former practice owner. Based in Traverse

City and Big Rapids, willing to travel. petvet2@torchlake.

com.

Amy Peck, DVM, 231/557-4423. MSU 97. Available for re-

lief in west MI/Grand Rapids/Lakeshore area. SA general

medicine. Excellent communication skills, experienced

and reliable. apeckdvm@gmail.com

Jeff rey F. Powers, DVM, 231/881-4408.  MSU 80. Avail-

able to provide SA/MX relief work in MI, practice owner

for 29 years. jfpowers@tds.net.

Bob Schleiff arth, DVM, 269/921-0570. SA relief. Over 30

years’ ownership experience. Coverage for western MI,

based in Onekama. Kawnipi2@att.net.

Teri Sexton, DVM, 517/231-1256 cell; 517/371-2930

home. MSU 92. SA/PT work w/in 1 hour of Lansing. Can

make your clients and staff feel at ease. Strengths: der-

matology, soft tissue surgery. TeriLSexton@earthlink.

net.

Jennifer Sherrill, DVM, 231/215-0924. UICVM 01. SA re-

lief PT. 9 years’ experience. General medicine/surgery.

Excellent client care. West MI/Grand Rapids. Willing to

travel. References. sherrilljen@comcast.net.

Alan Sibinic, DVM, 734/922-3713, 231/547-6212. MSU

75. Relief or part-time anywhere in MI. Flexible, wide-

variety practice experience. 5+ years relief work. Refer-

ences. SA/EQ/FA.

Margaret Sudekum, DVM, 616/676-2720 MSU 89. Avail-

able for part-time SA relief work in Grand Rapids and the

surrounding areas. Good client communication skills.

msdvm@sdkm.us.

Alan Supp, DVM, 616/732-1263 days; 616/874-4171

evenings. MSU 90. Companion animal practitioner

available Saturdays only, as-needed basis in the greater

Grand Rapids area.

Connie R. Sveller, DVM, 517/388-3434. MSU 85.  SA

relief work within 1 hour of East Lansing. Experienced/

reliable/former practice owner (16 years). docconnie1@

aol.com.

Andrea Switch, DVM, 248/302-2255. MSU 84. Available

for part-time or relief work. SA general medicine/soft tis-

sue surgery in SE MI. andreaswitch@yahoo.com.

Kirsten Ura-Barton, DVM, 774/230-6878. MSU 97. Avail-

able for SA relief in SE Michigan within 1 hour of Pontiac.

Experienced in both general and emergency practice

with excellent communication skills. Résumé available

upon request. kurabartondvm@gmail.com.

Nicholas Urbanek, DVM, 412/606-1716. Glasgow 09.

SA/emergency relief and part-time work within 2 hours

of Lansing. Internship trained, great client communica-

tion and records, compassionate. nup321@aol.com.

Jacqueline Walsh, DVM, 248/680-2461. MSU 89. Avail-

able for SA relief work in the greater Detroit area.

Amy Wildrose, DVM, 517/420-5891. MSU 00. Experi-

enced, proficient, dependable, and convivial. Available

for SA relief or part-time. Based in Lansing. Willing to

travel. a_wildrose@hotmail.com.

Georgia A. Wilson, DVM, 248/830-5325. 22 years’ expe-

rience, SA, pet exotics and emergencies, licensed. Avail-

able immediately for Oakland County and southeast MI.

vxn8n@aol.com.

Jennifer Zablotny, DVM, 517/896-9146. MSU 97. Expe-

rienced SA relief for southeast and mid-MI. References

available. drzablotny@gmail.com.

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 25

26 the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014

mackinac island veterinary conference

▸ July 13–15, 2014

Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI

Veterinary Parasitology (Dr. Michael Dryden)

Practice Management (Mary Ann Vande Linde, DVM)

michigan veterinary conference

▸ January 30–February 1, 2015

Lansing Center & Radisson Hotel, Lansing, MI

mvma small animal seminars

▸ Infectious Diseases (Dr. Michael Lappin)

October 8, 2014

▸ Behavior (Dr. Katherine Houpt)

November 5, 2014

▸ GI Diseases (Dr. David Twedt)

December 3, 2014

▸ Oncology (Dr. Guillermo Couto)

March 4, 2015

Seminars 10:00 am–5:30 pm at the East Lansing Marriott. Contact

MVMA at (517) 347-4710 or register online at www.michvma.org.

mvma committees

▸ Animal Welfare (Dr. Marcie Barber, Chair)

June 12, 2014 @ 10:00 am

October 9, 2014 @ 10:00 am

▸ Executive (Dr. Therese Burns, Chair)

June 19, 2014 @ noon

September 4, 2014 @ noon

November 20, 2014 @ noon

▸ Legislative Advisory (Dr. Cathy Anderson, Chair)

June 11, 2014 @ 1:30 pm

September 10, 2014 @ 1:30 pm

November 12, 2014 @ 1:30 pm

▸ Membership (Dr. Sarah Abood, Chair)

September 25, 2014 @ 3:30 pm

November 20, 2014 @ 3:30 pm

▸ Public Health (Dr. Joe Klein, Chair)

June 4, 2014 @ 1:30 pm

September 3, 2014 @ 1:30 pm

December 17, 2014 @ 1:30 pm

Meetings held in the MVMA office unless noted.

canine ultrasound lecture & wet lab

▸ Saturday, June 21, 2014

MSU Veterinary Medical Center, East Lansing, MI

people, pets & vets

▸ Saturday, November 8, 2014 @ 11 am–3 pm

Macomb Community College

mvma animal welfare conference

▸ Monday, November 24, 2014 @ 8 am–5 pm

MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI

mvma board of directors

▸ July 13, 2014

Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island

▸ September 17, 2014

University Club, Lansing

▸ December 10, 2014

University Club, Lansing

semvma small animal dvm & technician seminars

Contact Barb Locricchio at the SEMVMA offi ce at (888) 736-8625

or visit www.semvma.com to register.

southwestern michigan vma

▸ Canine & Feline Behavior (Dr. John Ciribassi)

September 23, 2014 @ 5:30–8:00 pm

western michigan vma

▸ Veterinarian CE Seminars

3rd Tuesday of each month, January–May &

September–November @ 7:00 pm / Grand Rapids

Contact Jeff Johnson, DVM, (616) 837-8151, or jdandcj2008@

dishmail.net.

due to the number of requests for ce announcements, the michigan veterinarian limits listings to ce programs in michigan.

Please join us Saturday, September 13, for a day at a dairy farm!

Curious about modern farming and where dairy foods come from? Are your clients asking you questions about animal care practices

on the farm? Join us for a tour of Green Meadow Farms, and bring your questions on everything from animal care to the steps taken to ensure milk quality and safety. You’ll travel

in style on a chartered bus with refreshments served. Dr. Ron Erskine, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, MSU College of

Veterinary Medicine, and Kristy Smith, Industry Relations Specialist, United Dairy Industry of Michigan, will be on the bus to answer questions.

A box lunch is included.

RSVP by September 2 to Michelle Hart at mhart@udim.org

Un

calendar

the michigan veterinarian • summer 2014 27

michigan veterinary medical association 2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864-3986 Presort Standard

U.S. Postage

PAIDLansing, MI

Permit #713Professional excellence.

Compassionate care.

join mvma on our social media sites!You’ve seen us on Facebook with our 3,000+ fans, Twit-

ter with our 2,200+ followers and YouTube with more

than 10,000+ views. But have you seen us on Pinterest?

You can check us out at http://pinterest.com/michvma/.

important phone numbersMI Board of Veterinary Medicine . . .(517) 335-0918

MI Board of Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . .(517) 373-1737

DEA—Detroit offi ce . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(313) 234-4000

DEA—toll-free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 230-6844

MDARD State Veterinarian . . . . . . . .(517) 373-1077

MI Dept. of Community Health . . . . .(517) 335-8165

USDA, APHIS, VS–Accreditation . . .(517) 337-4700