vol. 17, no. 1 · winston pirtle (334) 288-4073 sr. board member at large: mike newman (256)...

ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA

Small animal:

Malpractice Risks; Medical Records; Hiring Practices;

Dr. Charlotte Lacroix – 6 hrs.

Hospital Design; Sal Longo – 2 hrs.

Why Using Rehabilitation Therapy is Good for Business; Dr. Darryl Millis- 6 hrs.

GI & Liver Disease; Dr. Todd Tams – 8 hrs.

Dermatology with a Twist While Improving the Bottom Line;

Dr. Lowell Ackerman – 8 hrs.

Updates on Nutrition; Dr. Catherine McClelland – 2 hrs.

Young Women Graduates/ Thriving in the Profession;

Dr. Catherine McClelland – 1 hr

Senior Care & Biochemical Profiling; Dr. William Fortney – 4 hrs.

EquinE:

Orthopedics; Maximizing Radiographic Quality; Pre-purchase Pitfalls;

Dr. Jay Merriam – 4 hrs.

Preventing Respiratory Disease; Feeding for Hoof Health; Preventing Colic; Feeding the Growing Foal and Equine Athlete; Broodmare

Care; Broodmare & Stallion Nutrition; Dr. David Pugh – 6 hrs.

Top Legal Issues Commonly Faced by Equine Veterinarians; Dr. Charlotte Lacroix – 2 hrs.

Poultry:

Various Topics & Speakers – 8 hours

tECHniCianS:

Various Topics & Speakers – 8 hours

SPRING 2006

Vol. 17, No. 1

ALVMA 99th Annual Convention .......................... 1

Executive Board 2005-2006 ................................. 2

2005-2006 ALVMA Committees ........................... 2

From the President ............................................... 2

A Note From the Editor ......................................... 3

Hall of Fame Report .............................................. 4

From the Executive Director .................................. 5

Annual Conference Summary ................................ 6

Annual Conference Schedule .........................8 - 10

Convention Speakers .......................................... 10

Conference Registration Form ............................. 11

Conference Reservations .................................... 12

Golf Tournament Registration Form ..................... 13

Leadership Conference Report ............................ 14

Leadership Conference Editor’s Report ................ 15

Legal Corner ...................................................... 16

Foundation News ............................................... 18

Public Relations Report ....................................... 19

New Tech Program Offered ................................. 20

100 Year Celebration Update .............................. 21

Ag Security Conference Registration ................... 22

Tuskegee University Vet News ............................. 23

AU School of Vet Medicine News ........................ 24

Relief Vets .......................................................... 26

Classifieds .......................................................... 27

IN ASSOCIATION WITH MISSISSIPPI VMA

20770 BriAdv_vet mag.indd 1 5/4/06 11:07:42 AM

Summer is just around the corner and I hope your

plans include our convention in Orange Beach, Alabama June 29-July 2, 2006. We are meeting in conjunction with the Mississippi VMA which will be a great opportunity

to network with veterinarians outside of Alabama, and the great professional peers from our own state. This is the first time in several years we have been to the beach for our summer convention, and the newly renovated Perdido Beach Resort is sure to be a fantastic location for outstanding educational opportunities and relaxation. This publication is packed full of information regarding the convention, so make sure you read it thoroughly. Bring your entire family and join us for a great convention! See you at the Beach!

James V. Corte DVM President

Dear Colleages:

DR. JAMES CORTE

2005 - 2006ALVMA Committees:

COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN TELEPHONEAnimal Welfare/Human Bond Awards Constitution/By Laws/Practice Act Convention/Program Finance Grievance Large Animal Affairs Legislative CVM - Liaison Long Range Planning Membership/Member Services NCVEI Nominating P.A.C. Public Health/Rabies Public Relations Radiology Resolutions Small Animal Affairs State Diagnostic Lab Veterinary Emergency Management Veterinary Student Relations Vet Tech Advisory Veterinary Wellness

Mike Newman Winston Pirtle Jack Goodman Barbara Monaghan Barbara Monaghan Bill Allen Dwight Wolfe Charles Franz Jan Strother Winston Pirtle Larry Chasteen Homer Bruce Frank Brown Bill Sternenberg Glenn Malone Libby Coleman Todd Debra Beard Bill Bledsoe William Holland Barry Stewart Laurie McCall & Tony Frazier James Corte Glenn Sexton Jerome Williams

256/350-7001 334/288-4073 256/232-1344 205/833-9400 205/833-9400 205/631-6210 334/844-4490 334/395-0086 256/773-0844 334/288-4073 205/884-3412 334/745-0060 251/342-2885 334/279-7456 334/727-8476 205/967-2511 334/844-5045 334/682-4243 334/794-6333 256/773-1592 334/712-9125 334/240-7253 251/928-8555 256/840-4149 205/326-8080

2005 - 2006 Executive Board

Alabama Veterinarian 2

100th Anniversary of Veterinary Medicine in Alabama

Last Chance to Submit Your PhotosThe Alabama Veterinary Medical Association is

seeking photographs from the early to mid-1900s for a commemorative book that will be printed in 2007, a key year in the history of veterinary medicine in Alabama.

Auburn’s veterinary program began in 1892 and became a college in 1907, the same year the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association began. Photos are also being sought related to Tuskegee University’s establishing of its veterinary college in 1945 and about Kentucky and the Southern Regional Education Board agreement in 1949.

Photos could include people, clinics, animals, vehicles, equipment, anything that shows the history of veterinary medicine. Anyone wishing to submit photos should contact Dr. Gary Beard (334-844-3699; [email protected]) or Charles Martin (334-844-3698; [email protected]).

Officers:President:James V. Corte(251) 928-8555

President Elect:Barbara Monaghan(205) 833-9400

Vice President:Mark Russell(256) 882-0950

Treasurer:Aaron H. Groth, Jr.(334) 821-1725

Immediate Past President:Winston Pirtle(334) 288-4073

Sr. Board Member at Large:Mike Newman(256) 350-7001

Jr. Board Member at Large:Larry Chasteen(205) 884-3412

cOnstituent AssOciAtiOnrepresentAtives:

Calhoun County VMA:William R. Simpkins(256) 831-5768

Central Alabama VMA:W. R. Sternenberg(334) 279-7456

Colbert-Lauderdale County VMAW. J. Connolly(256) 757-5376

East Alabama VMAPete Marine(334) 826-0360

Greater Dothan VMALaurie H. McCall(334) 712-9125

Gulf Coast VMABabette Dixon(251) 928-5630

Jefferson County VMATom Dawkins(205) 665-3991

Madison County VMAJim Chancellor(256) 883-2920

Mid State VMARobert S. Gaddis(205) 988-8654

Mobile VMAQuentin Meadows(251) 330-0607

North Alabama VMACharles Ashwander(256) 353-2435

Sand Mountain VMALee Lambert(256) 638-7299

South Central VMAJohn R. Grider(251) 743-4061

Southeast Alabama VMAWayne Roberts(334) 347-3475

Tuscaloosa County VMAScott E. White(205) 339-5535

Tuskegee VMAJ. A. Clinkscales(334) 727-1488

West Alabama VMAWilliam G. Bledsoe(334) 682-4243

ex OfficiO MeMbers:

Executive DirectorCharles F. Franz(334) 395-0086

Delegate to AVMAWilliam E. DeWitt(205) 798-2428

Alternate Delegate to AVMAJan Strother(256) 773-0844

State VeterinarianAnthony G. Frazier(334) 240-7253

President, Auxiliary to ALVMANancy McCurdy(246) 533-1770

Editor, Alabama VeterinarianBarbara Monaghan(205) 833-9400

Public Health VeterinarianMel Stephens(334) 206-2051

Auburn Student RepresentativeBlaine O’Reilly

Tuskegee Student RepresentativeIan Moore


With the 2006 convention around the corner, the ALVMA is about to

embark upon a very busy year. This next convention kicks off the beginning or our pre-centennial celebration. Our 2007 conference will mark the 100th anniversary of the ALVMA. We are very proud to bring our meeting back to the beach by popular demand. Some of you may not have ventured into Orange Beach last year as it was rebuilding after Hurricane Ivan in September 2004. The beaches are beautiful and the Perdido Beach Resort is ready to accommodate your every need. We have a phenomenal line of speakers this year and it is a meeting that cannot be missed! We plan on seeing you and your family in June!

On an editorial note, I hope many of you read or at least looked at our first edition of our first online electronic newsletter in March. Many thanks to our hard working staff in Montgomery for all of the creative energy that went into making it a great looking publication. This e- newsletter

is one of the many new faces of the ALVMA. As this publication evolves it will become our main veterinarian to veterinarian communication. Fear not our magazine is not going away! We hope to make our magazine a bit more broad based by adding human interest pieces about your colleagues around the state, and even creating a clients corner piece written to appeal to your clients. We will eventually publish in a four color format (which we have not done before) to make the printed edition of the Alabama Veterinarian as attractive as possible. Our vision is that you may feel comfortable placing your copy in your waiting room for your clients to read. Items that are not for client consumption will be published in our online publication.

Our publications are for you. If you like what we are doing we would love to hear from you. If you hate it we need to hear from you too. I am still collecting names of your veterinarian friends that you would like to see featured in upcoming editions of our magazine.

We are also including a “What do you do in this situation?” column and we need your input. These columns are to help solve the day to day dilemmas that we encounter with our clients and staff. This is the brain child of Dr. Tom Williamson who wanted to know how other veterinarians handle the problem of employees bringing their own pets to work with them every day. This question had to be dealt with when an employee’s puppy became infected with parvovirus at work. What would you do? What are you policies? Please e-mail your responses to [email protected].

See you in the sun!

Barbara MonaghanEditor

A Note From the Editor

DR. BARBARAMONAGHAN

SPRING EDITION 2006 3

NOMINATING COMMITTEERECOMMENDATIONS

Junior board Member Dr. Libby coleman toddtreasurer Dr. Aaron Groth, Jr.president-elect Dr. Mark russellvice-president Dr. Mike newman

Elections will be held at the Annual Business Meeting during the ALVMA Conference, Saturday-July 1, 2006 at 12 noon.



The next induction ceremony for the Alabama Animal Hall of Fame has been scheduled for September

9, 2006 in Montgomery. The event had been scheduled at its usual time in January in Mobile but the bad weather on the coast in August and September altered those plans. We rescheduled to September in Montgomery so make a note of the new time and location.

This year’s induction will include Mr. Michael Hingson as the keynote speaker. Mr. Hingson was in one of the World Trade Center towers on September 11, 2001. He survived to tell his tale but his tale includes his dog. Mr. Hingson is blind and his dog, Rozelle is his working and faithful seeing-eye dog. Rozelle led him out of the building and in so doing saved both of their lives. It is a story worth hearing if not for the first person account of that day, but for the inspiring story of a wonderful human-animal relationship.

We are delighted that he has agreed to keynote for us.

But as usual, the story of that night will be the new inductees. This year’s class includes a hero dog named Muffin, an ageless and nationally famous chicken named Matilda, and Gucci whose story changed lives and laws in our state. This is another outstanding class and their stories will be recounted in the media and certainly at induction.

We also have three new Bowie-Heath Humanitarian Award winners. Lynne Fridley of Maddie’s fund fame and years of humane work statewide, Dr. Janet Haslerig from the Macon County Humane Society who has a huge list of accomplishments, and Jama Singley from the Lee County Humane Society and the Lee County Department of Animal Welfare also with a huge list of accomplishments each have won the award. Our state is blessed with people who are

devoted and active in humanitarian efforts for humans and animals and these three certainly represent the best of that group. Our profession is honored to present them with the Bowie-Heath Award.

The committee for the Alabama Animal Hall of Fame invites you and looks forward to your attendance in Montgomery on September 9, 2006. Dinner will be served at the ceremony and the event is black tie. Please come and bring friends and especially your best clients. We guarantee a memorable evening. For tickets or additional information call Alabama Veterinary Medical Association’s office at 334-395-0086 or use the web site at alvma.com.

Michael Newman, DVMMS-ChairmanApril 19, 2006

HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND COMMITTEE REPORT


A s of this writing, our new Veterinary Practice Act legislation has passed and

been delivered to the Governor for his signature. Fortunately, Senate Bill 365 was the first bill on the House Calendar of the last legislative day; it was the only bill on the Special Order Calendar to pass the House the entire day. Rep. Tommy Carter, the House sponsor of the bill, received a standing ovation from his colleagues, when the bill passed 103-0. Rep. Carter is retiring, having served 36 years in the legislature and becoming the second longest serving member of the House of Representatives. He has been a friend to veterinary medicine for a long time. Thanks are in order for several of our association members who played pivotal roles in the process from introduction through passage: Drs. Jack Goodman (and the Practice Act Committee), Jim Benefield, and Kent Armstrong. Thanks to our bill sponsors, Rep. Carter and Sen. Tom Butler. Special thanks to our lobbyist, Jeff Martin, who works tirelessly during the session not only for passage of important legislation but keeps an eye open for any bills being introduced which could impact veterinary medicine. I also want to give a big, heartfelt “thanks” to all the ALVMA members who made individual contacts with key legislators and gave funds to

the ALVMA PAC. Without your help, we would not be able to be successful in our legislative efforts.

To summarize some of the activity on legislation of interest to the veterinary profession ….

1.SenateBill365–(PracticeofVeterinaryMedicine)—Passed

2.HouseBill49–(Trusts)byRep.LesleyVancedealswithmanyissuesrelatedtotheestablishmentandoperationoftrusts.Itprovidesstatutoryauthorizationfortheestablishmentoftrustsforthepurposeofanimalcare.—Passed

3.HouseBill86(Hog/DogRodeo)byRep.ThomasJacksonandSen.PatLindseypassedthelegislatureandhasbeensignedintolawbyGovernorBobRiley.ThebillmakeshogandcaninefightingacrimewiththefirstoffensebeingaClassAmisdemeanorandanysubsequentviolationaClassCfelony.—Passed

4.HouseBill252(Spay/Neuter)passedthelegislature.ThebillsponsoredbyRep.BlaineGalliherandSen.MyronPennrequiresalldogsandcatsadoptedfromananimalshelter,animalcontrolagency,orhumanesocietybesterilizedbyalicensedveterinarian.Therequirementsofthisactshallnotapplytoanyprivatelyownedanimalinpossessionofashelter.—Passed

5.HouseBill254–(AnimalID)byRep.BlaineGalliherprovidesfortheAlabamaDepartmentofAgricultureandIndustriestocollectanimalidentificationinformation.Thisinformationwillbeconfidentialandwillbecollectedonavoluntarybasisuntilsuchtimethatfederallawsmandatethe

collectionofthisdata.—Passed

6.SenateBill82(DangerousDog)wasoneofthemoretalkedaboutpiecesoflegislationthislegislativesession.ThebillpassedtheSenateandwasscheduledfordebateontheHouseflooronthe29thlegislativeday,butafilibusteronotherlegislationpreventedtheHousefromtakingupthebill.Thebillestablishedaprocedurebywhichadogcanbedeclareddangerous,requiredregistrationandprovidedforpenalties.Thebillwasnotbreedspecific.—Died

If you need more information on any of these bills, please contact my office. I encourage you to get involved with the legislative process. Many of our fellow state VMAs are currently dealing with critical issues that negatively impact the practice of veterinary medicine. Develop the relationship now with your legislators; they do want to hear from you. How else might you help? Send a contribution to the ALVMA Political Action Committee (attn: Dr. Bill Sternenberg at the ALVMA office). We appreciate any contribution and you can be assured it will be used wisely.

I look forward to seeing you during the upcoming June Conference at Perdido Beach!

From the Executive Director

DR. CHARLES FRANZ

PERDIDO BEACH

RESORT99th ANNUALCONVENTION HIGHLIGHT

If you’re a technician, don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the Mechanisms of Toxicity, Calculating Drug Dosages and Nosocomial Infections. saturday, July 1

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PERDIDO BEACH

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ALABAMA VETERINARy MEDICAL ASSOCIATION& MISSISSIPPI VETERINARy MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

AnnuAL cOnferenceJune 29-July 2, 2006

perdido beach resort, Orange beach, Alabama

WeLcOMe…The Alabama Veterinary Medical Association and the Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association invite you to attend their first ever joint Annual Conference to be held June 29-July 2, 2006, at the Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach, Alabama.

reGistrAtiOn…Registration is required (fee information is listed on the Registration Form). Please complete the attached registration form and return it to: ALVMA, P.O. Box 3514, Montgomery, AL 36109 OR, register on-line at www.alvma.com. The deadline for early registration is MAY 26, 2006.

cAnceLLAtiOns & refunDs…Cancellations and refunds will be subject to a $50 processing fee if you cancel on or before June 16th. No refunds will be granted after June 16, 2006. If you need to cancel, please call the ALVMA office at (334) 395-0086.

ALvMA MeetinGs…Executive Board MeetingThursday, June 29, 2006 at 2:00 pm

General Membership MeetingSaturday, July 1, 2006 at 12:00 noon

exHibit HALL…The Exhibit Hall will open at 4:30 pm on Thursday, June 29th. We will kick-off the conference with a Wine & Cheese Reception in the exhibit hall from 6:00-7:00 pm, also on Thursday. Continental breakfasts and refreshment breaks will be served in the exhibit hall on Friday and Saturday. Please make every effort to visit the exhibit hall and thank each of our exhibitors and sponsors for their continued support of the ALVMA & MSVMA.

EXHIBIT HOURS: Thursday, June 29th – 4:30 pm-7:00 pm Friday, June 30th – 7:00 am-1:30 pm Saturday, July 1st – 7:00 am-1:30 pm

HOst HOteL…The Predido Beach Resort will be the venue for the Convention. Please book early to insure room preference and rates. Deadline for Group Rate is May 15, 2006. Group Rate: $174.00 Group Code (Phone): Veterinary Medicine Group Code (On-Line): 511

Call 1-800-634-7263 and specify that you are with the Veterinary Medicine group to receive the discounted room rate. Or you may go to the Perdido Beach website and make your room reservations on-line.

Go to the website www.perdidobeachresort.com Click on “Reservations” link – Type in Group Code (511) & Click “Log in Now” – Then click “Make Reservation” Fill out the information requested and click “Confirm Reservation” – You will be mailed a confirmation from the hotel within 7 days of submittal.



AnnuAL cOnferenceSOCIAL ACTIVITIES

Wine & cHeese receptiOn…

Come join us in the Exhibit Hall for a Wine & Cheese Reception and Conference Kick-Off Party being sponsored by all of the exhibitors. The

reception will begin at 6:00 pm and end just before the Seafood Buffet.

seAfOOD buffet…

Beginning at 7:00 pm, Thursday the 29th, feast on sumptuous seafood and enjoy great entertainment with nationally known Magician, Michael

Baker. Tickets to this event are required. Adults $30.00, $15.00 for children 4-10, and there is no charge for children 1-3.

You won’t want to miss this fun-filled evening!

pAst-presiDent’s receptiOn…

Please come join your colleagues in welcoming ALVMA’s & MSVMA’s Past Presidents at a reception from 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Friday, June 30.

Everyone is invited and we look forward to seeing you there.

AuxiLiAry cOffee…

This event is open to anyone who wishes to participate. The spouses of the Veterinarians would love to see you. You may join them on Friday

at 10:00 am.

ALAbAMA veterinAry MeDicAL AssOciAtiOn GOLf tOurnAMent…

Tee off with some of your colleagues on Friday at the Peninsula Country Club located just 30 minutes from the Perdido Resort on Ft. Morgan

Road (maps provided at the Registration desk).

beAcH run / beAcH WALK

Let the sand flow through your toes as you participate in a fun 1 mile run/walk scheduled for Saturday, July 1, beginning at 6:30 a.m.

Participants should meet in the main lobby for this free event sponsored by our friends at BUTLER. A tee shirt will be provided for all

participants. Please sign-up at time of registration.

See you on the beach!

presiDent’s Dinner / AWArDs…

Help us welcome the new officers of both associations at a reception from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. on Saturday evening July 1. At 7:30 p.m. both

associations will meet separately for their President’s Dinner and Awards, then reassemble at 9:30 p.m. for a night of entertainment and

dancing. Tickets are required for the dinner and dance and are $35.00 per person.

DevOtiOnAL feLLOWsHip breAKfAst…

Please come and join the fellowship for our Sunday morning worship and breakfast. Sunday, 6:30 a.m.-7:30 a.m. Tickets are required for this

event and the cost is $15.00 per person.



CONFERENCE SCHEDULEtHursDAy, June 29

1:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. REGISTRATION 2:00 p.m. Executive Board Meeting 4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. EXHIBIT HALL - Open 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Wine & Cheese Reception (Exhibit Hall) 7:00 p.m. Seafood Buffet (ticket required) with Entertainment by Magician Michael Baker

friDAy, June 30:

7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. REGISTRATION 7:00 a.m.-7:30 a.m. Continental Breakfast 7:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Exhibit HalL - Open 7:00 a.m. AL State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (Restaurant) Anyone Having Business with the Board is invited to attend9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. State and Federal Veterinarians 10:00 a.m. Auxiliary Coffee and Business Meeting 1:00 p.m. Alabama Veterinary Medical Association Golf Tournament 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Past President’s Reception sMALL AniMAL i7:30 a.m.-8:30a.m. Malpractice Risks….Where are They…., Dr. Charlotte Lacroix8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Malpractice Risks….Where are They…., cont., Dr. Charlotte Lacroix9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Malpractice Risks….Where are They…., cont., Dr. Charlotte Lacroix11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Medical Records… A Veterinarian’s Report Card, Dr. Charlotte Lacroix12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (on your own)12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. RECENT GRADUATES LUNCH – Dr. Steve Jaffe *Proudly sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. How to Hire the Good, Fire the Bad, and Stay Clear of the Ugly, Dr. Charlotte Lacroix3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. BREAK 3:15 p.m.-5:15 p.m. Hospital Design: Deciding What’s Right for You, Mr. Sal LongoHill’s Pet Nutrition is proud to sponsor Dr. Charlotte Lacroix

sMALL AniMAL ii7:30 a.m.- 8:30 a.m. Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Ruptures-What’s Best? Dr. Darryl Millis 8:30 a.m.- 9:30 a.m. How to Keep Luxating Patellas from Re-Luxating, Dr. Darryl Millis9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Why Physical Rehabilitation? Dr. Darryl Millis 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Therapeutic and Aquatic Exercises, Dr. Darryl Millis12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (on your own)1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Acute and Chronic Vomiting in Dogs and Cats, Dr. Todd Tams3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. BREAK 3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Acute and Chronic Vomiting in Dogs and Cats, cont., Dr. Todd Tams 4:15p.m.- 5:15 p.m. Diagnosis of Liver Disease in Dogs and Cats, Dr. Todd TamsFerno is proud to sponsor Dr. Darryl MillisRoyal Canin is proud to sponsor Dr. Todd Tams

eQuine7:30 a.m.-8:30a.m. Back Pain in Sport Horses: Lame or Lazy, Dr. Jay Merriam8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Sore Backs & Hind Limbs, Dr. Jay Merriam9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. How to Maximize Radiographic Quality in the Field, Dr. Jay Merriam11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Pre-purchase Pitfalls & Tying All This Together, Dr. Jay Merriam 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (on your own)1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Preventing Respiratory Disease in Horses, Dr. David Pugh 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Feeding for Hoof Health, Dr. David Pugh3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. BREAK3:15 p.m.-5:15 p.m. Top Legal Issues Commonly Faced By Equine Veterinarians, Dr. Charlotte LacroixFort Dodge Animal Health is proud to sponsor Dr. Jay Merriam & Dr. David PughHill’s Pet Nutrition is proud to sponsor Dr. Charlotte Lacroix



CONFERENCE SCHEDULE CONTINUED...pOuLtry8:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m. International Vaccination Trends, Dr. Eric Lovell8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Experimental Use of ILTV Vaccine: Field Experience, Dr. Marshall Putnam9:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Alabama Regulatory Update and NPIP Update, Drs. Tony Frazier & Ray Hilburn9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Runting / Stunting Syndrome, Dr. Guillermo Zavala11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Alabama Disease Update, Dr. Fred Hoerr11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Serology Update, Dr. Andy McRee

interActive LAb Grandview roomThis lab is open to both Small Animal and Equine practitioners1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Physical Therapy Lab, Dr. Darryl Millis

sAturDAy, JuLy 1:

7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Registration 7:00 a.m.-7:30 a.m. Continental Breakfast (Exhibit Hall)7:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall - Open 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. ALVMA Wellness Committee Meeting 12:00p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (ALVMA General Membership Business Meeting) 12:00p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (MSVMA General Membership Business Meeting) 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. AL State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners4:15 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Reception for recent graduates. Mix, mingle, and network with your peers. Light h’ourdeveres and drinks *Proudly sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Reception / Social Hour (ALVMA & MSVMA) 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. ALVMA President’s Dinner (ticket required) Presentation of Awards – Installation of Officers 7:30 p.m.-9:30 pm MSVMA President’s Dinner (ticket required) Presentation of Awards – Installation of Officers 9:30 p.m.-until Music & Dancing

sMALL AniMAL i7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Managing Allergies I, Dr. Lowell Ackerman8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Managing Allergies II, Dr. Lowell Ackerman9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00a.m.-11:00 a.m. Algorithim Approach to Dermatologic Diagnosis, Dr. Lowell Ackerman11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Dealing With Demodicosis, Dr. Lowell Ackerman12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (ALVMA General Membership Business Meeting)1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Improving Practice Profit, Dr. Lowell Ackerman2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Getting Paid for Services Rendered, Dr. Lowell Ackerman3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. BREAK3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Marketing Services to Existing Clients, Dr. Lowell Ackerman4:15 p.m.-5:15 p.m. Practice Websites: Getting Noticed on the “Net”, Dr. Lowell Ackerman

small Animal ii7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Update on Management of Liver Disease in Dogs, Dr. Todd Tams8:30 a.m.-9:45 a.m. Acute and Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs and Cats, Dr. Todd Tams9:45 a.m.-10:15 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:15a.m.-12:00 p.m. Acute and Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs and Cats, cont., Dr. Todd Tams12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (ALVMA General Membership Business Meeting) 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (MSVMA General Membership Business Meeting)1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Nutritional Answers to Challenging Cases, Dr. Catherine McClelland2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. The Role of Diet in Osteoarthritis, Dr. Catherine McClelland3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. BREAK3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Young Women Graduates: Thriving in the Profession, Panel Discussion, Drs. Charlotte Cotton, Debra Beard, Libby Todd & Barbara Monaghan Moderator: Dr. Catherine McClelland

Royal Canin is proud to sponsor Dr. Todd TamsHill’s Pet Nutrition is proud to sponsor Dr. Catherine McClelland



ConferenCe SChedule Continued...

EQUINE7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Management Options to Preventing Colic, Dr. David Pugh8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Feeding the Growing Foal and Equine Athlete, Dr. David Pugh9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Broodmare Care, Dr. David Pugh11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Broodmare & Stallion Nutrition, Dr. David PughFort Dodge Animal Health is proud to sponsor Dr. David Pugh

POULTRY8:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Avian Influenza: A Potential Vaccine, Dr. Haroldo Toro8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. GIS: Geographical Information Systems, Dr. Louise Dufour-Zavala9:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Broiler Breeder Update, Drs. Eric Jenson & Kelly Johnson9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (visit the Exhibit Hall)10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Field Experience with Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Marshall Putnam10:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Plant Experience with Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Marty Ewing11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Gangrenous Dermatitis, Dr. Francene Van Sambeek11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Influence of CIAV and IBDV on Infectious Bronchitis, Dr. Haroldo Toro

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Mechanisms of Toxicity, Sandra Foster, LVT 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Triaging the Hit by Car, Mary Tefend, RVT 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Common Household Toxicities, Sandra Foster, LVT 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Calculating Drug Dosages, Mary Tefend, RVT 12:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. LUNCH (provided by ALVMA) 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Ophthalmology Updates, Kathy Kelton Welch, LVT 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Still Love Teching after 15 Years, Kathy Kelton Welch, LVT 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Human Prescriptions vs. Pet Prescriptions, Sandra Foster, LVT 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Nosocomial Infections, Mary Tefend, RVT

SUNDAY, JULY 2

6:30 a.m.-7:30 am Devotional Breakfast7:30 a.m. Coffee & Pastries8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Information Desk - Open

GENERAL SESSION7:45 a.m.- 9:45 a.m. AHAA Senior Care Guidelines Dr. William Fortney9:45 a.m.-10:00 a.m. BREAK (refreshments provided)10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Biochemical Profiling Dr. William FortneyIDEXX is proud to sponsor Dr. William Fortney

Convention SpeakerS

Dr. William Fortney – Sponsored by IDEXXDr. Todd Tams – Sponsored by Royal Canin

Dr. Charlotte Lacroix – Sponsored by Hill’s Pet NutritionDr. Jay Merriam – Sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health

Dr. Darryl Millis – Sponsored by Ferno

poultry program SpeakerS…

DON’T FORGET TO VISIT THE ExHIbITS!Exhibit Hours:

Thursday, June 29th: 4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.Friday, June 30th: 7:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 1st: 7:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Dr. Louise Dufour-ZavalaDr. Tony FrazierDr. Marty EwingDr. Ray HillburnDr. Fred HoerrDr. Eric JensonDr. Kelly Johnson

Dr. Eric LovellDr. Andy McReeDr. Haroldo ToroDr. Francene Van SambeekDr. Marshall PutnamDr. Guillermo Zavala



99th annual Convention - alabama veterinary mediCal aSSoCiationREGISTRATION FORM

The Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach, AlabamaJune 29- July 2, 2006

Pre-Registration Deadline – May 26, 2006(Please print)

Full Name__________________________________________ First Name for Badge__________________________________

Address_____________________________________City____________________State_______Zip____________________

Phone___________________________________ Email______________________________________________________

Spouse/Guest Nametag__________________________________________________________________________________

Registration: Please complete section below. Then select appropriate registration option.

Track (Please pick one - you may change at any time during conference)

_____Equine _____Small Animal I _____Small Animal II

Member of _____ Veterinary Medical Association (after May 26, $380) $300.00 $__________ (Must be a member of one of the 50 state VMA’s for member discount) Life Member (after May 26, $190) $150.00 $__________Vet Technician (Conference Friday, Saturday & Sunday) (after May 26, $190) $150.00 $__________ALVMA Veterinary Technician Program –Saturday Only, July 1 (after May 26, $125) $75.00 $__________2002 and 2003 Graduate (after May 26, $190) (circle year) $150.00 $__________2004 and 2005 Graduate (after May 26, $50) (circle year) No Charge $__________Non-Member (after May 26, $530) $450.00 $__________Veterinary Medical & Technician Student School/Year:_______________________ $__________N/C___*One-day registrations are available for ½ of the fees listed above. _________ $__________ (specify day)

Special Events: Most events must be guaranteed in advance and require an extra fee. Only a limited number of tickets will be available at the convention.

Seafood Buffet & Entertainment (Thursday, 7:00 pm) Adult Ticket – No.____ @ $30.00 $___________ *Adult 10 & up / Child 4-10 / Age 1-4 No-Charge Child Ticket – No.____ @ $15.00 $___________ Child Ticket – No._____ @ N/C $____N/C____ Physical Therapy Lab (Friday, 1:00-5:00 p.m.) (after May 26, $55) $40.00 $__________Auxiliary Coffee (Friday, 10:00 am) No.____ @ N/C $____N/C___Past President’s Reception (Friday, 6:00-7:00 p.m.) No.____ @ N/C $____N/C___ALVMA President’s Dinner & Awards (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.) No.____ @ $35.00 $__________ MVMA PRESIDENT’S DINNER & AWARDS (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.) No.____ @ $35.00 $__________Devotional Fellowship Breakfast (Sunday, 6:30 a.m.) No.____ @ $15.00 $__________ RECENT GRADUATE LUNCH (Friday, 12:00 p.m.) No.____ @ N/C $__________

TOTAL $__________

Mail form & payment to:

ALVMAP.O. Box 3514Montgomery, AL 36109(Mail before May 26 for pre-registration discount)

____If you have a disability that may impact your participation in this meeting, please check here and attach a statement regarding your disability needs.

DON’T FORGET TO VISIT THE ExHIbITS!Exhibit Hours:

Thursday, June 29th: 4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.Friday, June 30th: 7:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 1st: 7:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Fees are due and payable only in U.S. Funds drawn on U.S. Banks. Please indicate your method of payment:

Check VISA MasterCard

_________________________/________________Card Number Evpiration Month/Year

_________________________________________Cardholder’s Name

_________________________________________Cardholder’s Signature



PERDIDO BEACH RESORT27200 Perdido Beach Boulevard

Orange Beach, AL 36561

ALABAMA VETERINARy MEDICAL ASSOCIATIONJune 29 – July 2, 2006

GrOup DiscOunt DeADLineMay 15, 2006

To make reservations online… Go to the website: www.perdidobeachresort.com Click on “Reservations” link Type in your group code in the box on click “Log in Now” Your group online code is 511. Then click “Make Reservation” Fill out the information requested and click “Confirm Reservation” You will be mailed a confirmation from the hotel within 7 days of submittal.

To make reservations via telephone…

Call the toll free Group Reservation Telephone Number – 1-800-634-8001 Be sure to identify yourself as part of the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association You will be mailed a confirmation from the hotel within 7 days.

GrOup rAte$174.00 per night single/Double



ALABAMA VETERINARy MEDICAL ASSOCIATION GOLf TOURNAMENTreGistrAtiOn fOrM

When: Friday, June 30, 2006 Time: 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start Where: Peninsula Country Club Who: Everyone is invited regardless of experience level. Cost: $80.00 per person (pay at the golf course)Format: Scramble - You do not have to have a team to participate!

Name:__________________________________________________________

Address:_________________________________________________________

City:_________________________________ State:_________ Zip:__________

Phone:_____________________ E-Mail:_______________________________

Handicap:_______________________ or average of last 4 rounds____________

I wish to be partnered with the following person(s):

Name:_____________________________________ Handicap:______________ Name:_____________________________________ Handicap:______________Name:_____________________________________ Handicap:______________

If you have any questions, contact:Dr. Jim Benefield (334) 391-1099

Mail this Form in with your Registration Form.Please DO NOT send any money for Golf.

All payments will be made at the Peninsula Country Club.



Diversity, animal rights, mentoring, bioterrorism, and legal issues were just

a few of the hot topics discussed at the AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference and House of Delegates Informational Assembly, January 13-15 in Chicago. It was my privilege to participate in the conference and it was quite a learning experience. For one who thinks the weather north of Montgomery is cold in winter, the “Windy City” was quite a change.

Attending as the recent graduate from the Alabama VMA, one of the highlights for me was the President, President-Elect, and Recent Graduate Dinner. At the event recent graduates were given the opportunity to interact

with one another and with the elected leaders and delegates within the veterinary profession. I was extremely impressed with the dedication of those I had dinner with and with their desire to serve the profession.

One of the workshops I attended entitled, “Mobilizing People for Change,” was a thought provoking session on the inevitability of change and how we can be effective agents of change for good in our profession and practices. As change agents we must be committed to the process, show concern for those affected, cooperate with those involved, and display confidence and control in the outcome. In another workshop, Dr. Charlotte Lacroix briefed

attendees on the implications of new legislation and rulings affecting the veterinary profession. There are too many issues to do justice to the topic here but be certain – sticking our heads in the sand about such issues as guardianship, pharmacy law, and case law as they pertain to veterinary medicine will neither shield nor protect us as a profession or individuals.

Finally, thanks to Bayer Animal Health for providing funding for recent graduates to attend. It was invaluable to network with other recent graduates and to see first hand how I can become more active in organized veterinary medicine.

Leadership Conference ReportBy: Dr. Kirk Holland



Yes this really did happen. Just before Christmas a British Woman married

a dolphin in a small, simple ceremony in Israel. Is she for real? Yes she is. Is she an odd ball? You be the judge. Why do you care? You care because this represents the far left of peoples’ relationships with animals. It illustrates the continuing paradigm shift of the human-animal relationship and this shift is driving the evolving animal rights/animal welfare climate.

Sixty percent of people believe they can communicate abstract ideas to their animals; 75% of pet owners believe that animals can reason. Do you believe that your pets have feelings? Can your dog (we will exclude cats and cows for the moment) feel lonely, depressed or happy? In answering yes to these questions you anthropomorphize your pet. When you see your clients pamper and clothe their pets like they do their children, you are observing that next step in anthropomorphizing of animals. We all know that client that will tell you they are more attached to their dog than

they are to their teenager. These actions and feelings are fueling the emerging animal rights/ animal welfare movement.

There is no hard definition of animal welfare; it is more of a subjective assessment. Animal rights are easier to define because most of them are legally written. Still the line between welfare and rights is often blurry. The movement for legally defined rights for animals is growing stronger due to social changes and urbanization. As cities and suburban sprawl continue, we have the development of megalopoli and one will merge into the next. Predictors suggest that in decades to come Raleigh will run into Atlanta and Atlanta into Birmingham. We will no longer be urban and rural but a “rurban” society. So are animals friends, family or food? That depends on where you live. They eat dogs in Asia and in America families have pet pigs. This creates emotional conflict regarding which image is right, are animals family or food? Now keeping this conflict in mind we have to define animal rights and animal welfare. The bottom line is not that animals

are not people and should not have the same legal rights. This is why anthropomorphizing of animals can be problematic; it leads animal rights activists and some pet owners to anthropomorphize animal rights.

Where are you in this soup of animal rights and animal welfare? Smack in the middle. Veterinarians are the only profession equipped to properly adjudicate the middle. Animal activist’s only give veterinarians a 76% approval rating on animal welfare issues, while giving feminists 85% approval and environmentalists a 95% approval rating. We as a profession need to be involved in this animal rights/welfare discourse before it is defined for us by those less qualified. We have to be part priest, part parent and part practioner to interpret and mediate the tenuous relationship that people have with animals. Veterinarians will always benefit from the relationships that people have with animals. It can be very profitable, but stay involved in this issue less you find yourself being sued by Spot for an overcorrection on his entropion procedure.

British Woman Marries Dolphin-A Report from AVMA Leadership Conference

By: Barbara Monaghan, President-Elect



In this issue as promised, we will delve a little further into the specifics of professional

liability insurance, and then coverage usually offered as additional riders and options to that coverage.

By now I hope each of you heeded our previous suggestion and have received and studied your general policy booklet form your carrier. For those who insure through the ALVMA PLIT, be comfortable that theirs is an excellent review of the coverage as well as exclusions.

Basically, all of us should purchase coverage for protection on three fronts: basic professional liability, bailment of property (includes the patient), and regulatory action defense.

All of us are familiar with basic professional liability coverage, but many of us need reminding that there are some particular principles on which to focus in its purchase:

1.Coverageisofapersonalnatureinthatitcoversliabilityonlyforthenamedinsured.Employersshouldrequireproofofcoverageinadequateamountsfromemployedveterinarians,sinceclaimsareusuallychargedagainsttheirpoliciesfirst,andtheclientwillusuallynameboththeemployerandemployeeinacourtaction.Formanyofyouemployersofveterinarians,thesimplestwaytomakesureemployedveterinariansareadequatelycoveredistooffertopaypremiumsinlieuofsalaryorasanemployeebenefit.

2.Mostcompaniesoffervariouslimitsoneachclaim(thosearisingfromeachveterinaryincident)aswellasaggregatelimits(totalamountsavailableforthepolicyperiod,usuallyoneyear).Eachpractitionershouldchoosehis/herlimitscarefullybasedonpossibleexposure.MostveterinariansItalkto,chooselimitsofatleast$300,000perincident,and$900,000as

aggregatecoverage.Inmyopinion,manyshouldpurchasehigherlimitssincetheincreasedpremiuminvestmentisusuallyminimal.Largeanimalpractitionersshouldbeextremelyawarethatjustacoupleofincidentsinoneyearcouldmaketheiraggregatecoveragenotsufficient.Thisisespeciallyaconcernwhentheirpracticesofferservicestoherdsoflivestockonexpensiveequinepatients.

3.Remember,thisisonlyprofessionalliabilitycoverage.Therearemanyexclusions.Themostprominentweshouldbeawareofare:

a.Theftofananimaloronekilledinafireorothermishapnotduetotheveterinarian’sprofessionalconduct.

b.Criminal,fraudulent,dishonest,maliciousactsoromissions/actswhileundertheinfluenceofalcohol,narcoticsorcontrolledsubstances.

c. Slanderorlibel

d.Claimsbyemployeesinvolvingdiscrimination,unlawfultermination,orotherclaimsarisingfromtheemployer/employeerelationship

e. Liabilityassumedbytheveterinarianunderacontract,unlesstheveterinarianwouldbeliableabsentthecontractonthetheoryofprofessionalliability.

Remember, the best defense is to practice within the standard care of your practice category, making sure you have informed consent (preferably through signed consent forms), prior to treatments, and, communication with your clients as therapy progresses. In many cases, this break down of communication leads to the first notice of a possible claim-the dreaded phone call from the disgruntled client who in reality just did not understand why things did not work out as expected. This is much more preferable than a court summons since in many cases, prior miscommunication can be corrected and it is much easier

to negotiate sensitive matters outside the legal system. The veterinarian should not, however, admit liability or offer settlements, but should listen patiently, then notify the insurance company immediately that there is evidence of a possible claim. Admission, if later proved in court, damages your case when in many instances there was no liability to begin with. Also remember that your insurance carrier has primary responsibility for damages in case you have liability. They will hire appropriate legal counsel if need be. If the veterinarian retains legal counsel on his/her own, fees for those services may well be denied payment by the insurance carrier and, the attorney will surely seek payment from the veterinarian.

I suggest veterinarians only contract with insurance providers whose policy is to not agree to out of court settlements in cases, unless the veterinarian agrees to the settlement. This is particularly important when the veterinarian considers a claim to not be justified, but only brought on as a frivolous nuisance action.

Bailment coverage is very inexpensive and is usually offered as an optional rider to professional liability policies. It offers relief for liability that occurs incidental to the client’s property (including the patients) being in complete custody and control of the veterinarian and his/her agents and hospital. It requires that the veterinarian and employees act reasonably in

LEGAL CORNER

DR. WINSTON PIRTLE, SR. DVM, JD



protection of the client’s property. Many policies pay more in the case of a proven loss if the veterinarian is in the process of transporting the client’s property, and, will even reimburse fees not collected by the veterinarian, if the non-payment was caused by the loss. I personally have had experience in this arena!

We all know that sometimes we think horses were made to self-destruct, since flight is their main defense when threatened. On two separate occasions, equine patients essentially committed suicide at our clinic. In the first case, the owner realized we had acted reasonably and paid his veterinary fees properly. In the second case, our hospital was not as lucky. Even though we felt strongly that fee payment should have been made, the client refused, holding the opinion that we should have done anything and everything possible (even if unreasonable) to prevent the catastrophe

caused directly by the horse’s temperament. Our insurance carrier sided with us and paid the reasonable fee that our hospital had earned.

DO NOT practice without Veterinary Action Defense coverage. Most policies offer it as an optional rider, with high levels of benefits, compared to the premium charged. This coverage gives the practitioner tremendous peace of mind. In the arena of defense at the examining board level, a license to practice and earn a living is at issue. Never have I seen colleagues as nervous as those who were subjected to scrutiny of their actions before our board, as outstanding as that board performs its duties in Alabama. The quality of legal representation at this level is of utmost importance, and, can many times necessitate retaining an attorney who also handles criminal defense cases. Remember, that an appeal to the court system by the defendant veterinarian is usually not covered by

Regulatory Action Defense insurance. A good choice in legal representation can better insure success at the first level. Even in this success, legal fees can reach into the thousands of dollars. This alone makes my case that no practitioner should spend one working day without this valuable insurance protection in force.

Please consider the

content of this article to be general in nature. Since each legal case most probably will contain facts not consistent with the summaries presented here. I suggest you immediately contact your insurance carrier and/or attorney if a need for advice in your particular situation becomes apparent to you.

LEGAL CORNER (CONTINUED)

99th ANNUALCONVENTION HIGHLIGHT

New or recent graduates, meet your colleagues and do some networking during a free lunch on Friday, courtesy of Ft. Dodge. Learn more about vaccines as well. DON’T MISS THIS!!

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Last fall we saw and heard of many heroes for pets in Alabama and the Southeast

in the aftermath of the hurricanes. Heroes are individuals who find and rescue these abandoned and injured animals, veterinarians who care for these sick or injured animals and those who help financially, so the pets can have a chance to find their owners or be adopted to loving homes.

The Alabama Veterinarian Medical Foundation helped support many veterinarians in Alabama with their efforts to feed and treat these pets. We also helped with some capital improvements where a clinic and equipment was almost totally destroyed. This support we have been able to provide should make us proud. The unselfish gifts from the “community” to make this possible is truly amazing!

We want the Foundation to continue to help pets brought in by good Samaritans, owned by

low-income caregivers, or affected by hurricanes and other natural disasters. We also want to provide education programs dedicated to teaching responsible pet care and to provide CE for veterinarians and LVT’s. In order to provide these services we have to be proactive in our efforts.

“Heroes for Alabama Pets” is one program that will accomplice this for us. With this program we will identify individuals and organizations that make annual contributions to the AVMF to help treat these pets and educate the public in ways to be better pet owners. We are fortunate to have Mr. Richard Heysek of the Foundation Management Group based in Tampa, FL, to help us with this campaign. Ms. Angela Turner of Birmingham will assist him. Richard and Angela will be visiting clinics across the state informing our members about the Foundation and the “Heroes for Alabama

Pets” program. Please make any suggestions that might help the Foundation support you and your practice.

Please provide a few moments for Richard and Angela to tell you the history of the Alabama Veterinary Medical Foundation and it’s mission and vision. Then, if the program appeals to you, help us meet a few of your special clients that may be receptive to the “Heroes for Alabama Pets”. We can make a difference in the animal care in this state!

We will need a lot of “heroes” to continue this noble cause in Alabama!

Thanks for your time,

Lewis McCurdy DVMPresident AVMF

ALVMA Foundation NewsyES, I WANT TO BE A HERO FOR ALABAMA PETS

LEWIS MCCURDY, DVM


For attendees needing child care services…please contact any of the following agencies to make personal arrangements for any child care services you might need.

nanny’s care – 251-986-8200My favorite nanny – 251-634-0145Dolphin cove creations – 850-492-3847

ALVMA makes no recommendations as to the quality of these services. All services were recommended by Perdido Beach Resort.

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Happy Spring! I hope this issue of the Alabama Veterinarian finds you doing

well and enjoying the wealth of opportunities available to us within the field of veterinary medicine. I am honored and excited to share in the fantastic celebration that will take place in the summer of 2007. We are preparing to celebrate the anniversary of 100 years of veterinary medicine in Alabama. We all know the importance of educating the public about issues of animal health, food safety, and disease prevention, and we now have a wonderful occasion to continue this tradition of education as we celebrate the contributions that veterinary medicine and its leaders have made to our state. Please read the “Plans for 100 year

celebration update” in this issue provided by Mark Russell, Chairman of the Celebration Committee.

The ALVMA is compiling a list of veterinarians who are willing to participate in our statewide effort of education by agreeing to promote our profession through various media outlets, including television, radio, and print. The materials needed for any presentations will be provided to you, and we will be offering a Media Training Seminar on August 13 in Birmingham given by Dr. Jim Humphries of Veterinary News Network. The ALVMA is providing all of the tools for you—we only need the dedication of a small amount of your time.

We should all feel proud of the veterinarians in our state and of their involvement in the

numerous opportunities available both in veterinary medicine and in a multitude of other civic and community activities. Through your involvement with these groups, we can share our enthusiasm with our communities. Our profession offers friendships with other veterinarians, opportunities for leadership, and knowledge and awareness of the most pertinent topics facing our profession today.

Please lend careful consideration to this request and contact me by phone or by e-mail at (205) 790-1271 or [email protected] to offer your time or to ask any questions. Our profession is one of the most respected in the world and I look forward to celebrating its Alabama roots with you! Thank you!

MEDIA TRAINING SCHEDULED FOR AUGUSTBy: Libby Coleman Todd, DVM; Public Relations Committee



Jefferson State Community College launched its Veterinary Technology Distance Education

Program in the fall of 2005. Because the program is offered via the internet, it is accessible to students throughout the state and is the first of its kind in Alabama.

Dr. Christie Wallace has accepted the position of director of the

program. Dr. Wallace graduated in 1999 from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University and had previously earned her B.S. degree in microbiology. She has worked in private practice and consulting to a private veterinary reference laboratory.

The program is off to an excellent start with over 50 students enrolled. They are

pleased to announce that the Alabama State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners has agreed to provisionally grant admittance of students to the Veterinary Technician National Examination and the Alabama State Board Written Jurisprudence Examination for licensing purposes. This ensures students the ability to become

licensed veterinary technicians during the initial implementation of this program.

More than 70 veterinary clinics and hospitals now serve as clinical sites for the program. Each site provides students with crucial hands-on experience at a preferred location chosen by students and approved by the program. This allows students to continue

employment while enrolled in the program. Current changes taking place in veterinary medicine are going to place students in very high demand. Jefferson State has taken on the role to provide the veterinary community with the very best licensed veterinary technicians available.

The program offers 22 hours of general education and 54 hours of veterinary technology.

Upon successful completion, students are awarded the Associate Degree in Applied Science (A.A.S.). The college is striving to become accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Candidates for admission must have a high school diploma or G.E.D. and must be admitted to the college before being considered for admission to the Veterinary Technology Program. Application should be made well in advance, since enrollment is limited. The Veterinary Technology Program accepts new students only once yearly—in the fall. As early as possible, the student should contact the Veterinary Technology Department to request an information packet and an Application for Eligibility Determination and to schedule an interview with the program director.

For more information on the program and becoming an approved clinical site, please visit the web site at www.jeffstateonline.com or contact (205) 856-7848.

New Tech Program Offered in Alabama


Physiotherapy lab and lecture by one of the pioneers in the field. Learn about a new profit center and emerging discipline— friday, June 30.

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Newly appointed Director of Jefferson State Community College’s Veterinary Distance Education Program, Dr. Christie Wallace.



The plans for your 100 Year Celebration of The Alabama Veterinary Medical Association

in 2007 are well underway. In 100 years veterinary

medicine has gone from a “pioneer profession”, where veterinarians literally risked their lives during the early years when going on a call, to a profession which now enjoys a high degree of respect and admiration. During our celebration, help tell the stories of our history as veterinarians.

We have many hard working veterinarians, spending many hours to make this 2007Celebration a great success. If you have not already volunteered, step up and join the fun! It will be a memorable year! Here are eight ways to promote Veterinary Medicine (and your practice) in your community during 2007:

1.VolunteertobepartoftheSpeakersBureauforthe100YearCentennialCelebration.WewillbegivingspeechestocivicandlocalgroupslikeRotary,churches,andschoolsallthroughout2007.WewillhavesamplespeechespreparedbyDavidHayesandaDVDpreparedandeditedbyRickDerrick.FormoreinformationpleasecallLibbyColemanToddorCharlesFranz.

2.Beatelevisionstar!BeapartofthemediainterviewstobeginJan07throughoutthestate.Learnhowtobeinvolvedwiththemediaatasessionthissummertoprepareusforbeinginthespotlight.FormoreinformationpleasecontactLibbyColemanToddorCharlesFranz.

3.Supportthesponsorsofourcelebration.ThefirstPlatinumsponsorsonboardareFt. DodgeandHill’s Pet Nutrition.Theseare$24,500commitmentstothiscampaign.WebsterhassignedonasaBronzelevelcommitmentof$3,900.00.Inaddition,Websterhasmadethegenerousofferofprintingourcentennialbookoutliningourhistory,tobepresentedtoeachduespayingmember.Thisbookwillbepackedwithphotosandfeaturearticlesrelatingtoveterinarymedicineforthepast100years.

4.Sendoldinstrumentsandcostumesthatwouldhavebeenworn100yearsago,tobeusedduringthecentennial.AlsosubmitphotosoftheearlyyearsofveterinarymedicinetobeusedintheCentennialBook.ContactArvleMarshallandAaronGroth.

5.Callyourfavoriteindustrypartner/representativeandencouragethemtosupporttheprofessionbygivingmoneytothecentennialcelebration.ThiswillbethelargestpublicrelationsevertobesponsoredbyALVMA.FormoreinformationcallBarbaraMonaghanandCharlesFranz.

6.BeavolunteerattheALVMAboothduringtheyear.Theboothisbeingprofessionallydesignedandconstructedtobedisplayedthroughoutthestateatpremierevents.EventssuchasPanoplyinHuntsvilleand,CityStagesinBirminghamwillprovideagoodopportunitytoreachalotofpeopletotellwhatveterinariansdoforthem.Wewillneedveterinariansattheboothaswellasonedressedin100yearcostumewithinstrumentsofthedaytotalk“abouttheearlyyears”.

7.Helpthrowaparty!Wewillbehostingtwopartiesduringthe2007Centennial

Celebration.ThefirstwillbewiththelegislatureinMontgomery.Weneedtheirsupportandtheyneedthevitalrolesweplayinthestate.Thiswillalsobeafunopportunitytoenjoyminglingwithyourpeerswhileenjoyinggreatfoodandbeverages.ThesecondwillbeonthebeachinOrangeBeach.Alocalbeachpartytoppedoffwithafireworksdisplay.Atimetocelebratethehuman-animalbondandenjoyarelaxingtimeatthebeach.ContactJanStrotherorRickDerrickformoreinformation.

8.Beamovieproducer!OurCentennialCelebrationwillhaveaprofessionallydesignedandeditedDVDtobeusedinspeechesandatourbooth.Submitthenamesofarticulateclientswhowouldpresentstoriesaboutwhathis/herveterinarianhasdoneforthem.SubmitstoriesandabriefbiotoMarkRussellorRickDerrick.

The 100 Year Celebration is an enormous task to undertake and it will mean the involvement of veterinarians across the state to make it a huge success. When called upon to help, please jump in with both feet and help promote 100 years of a great profession!

Sincerely,

Dr. Mark RussellCentennial Celebration Chairman

PLANS FOR 100 yEAR CELEBRATION-UPDATE

DR. MARK RUSSELL


How to improve your practice profit – saturday, July 1

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Dr. Benjamin

R. Payton,

President

of Tuskegee University

appointed Dr. Tsegaye

Habtemariam as Dean of

the College of Veterinary

Medicine, Nursing and

Allied Health. The

appointment took

place on

January 3, 2006.

Prior to being

appointed as Dean, Dr.

Habtemariam served

as Associate Dean for

Research and Graduate

Studies since 1999;

Director of the Center

for Computational

Epidemiology,

Bioinformatics and Risk

Analysis; Director of

Biomedical Information

management Systems; and

Professor of Epidemiology

and Biomedical

Informatics.

Dr. Habtemariam

received the Bacheolor of

Science degree in Animal

Sciences with Distinction

from H.S.I. University,

Ethiopia, the Doctor

of Veterinary Medicine

degree from Colorado

State University, the Master

of Preventive Veterinary

Medicine degree and the

Doctor of Philosophy

degree in Epidemiology

both from the University

of California at Davis.

Dr. Habtemariam is the

recipient of many honors

and awards and is the

current President

of the World Association

of Veterinary Educators.

His appointment as Dean

follows the previous

deanship of Dr. Alfonza

Atkinson who served in

that capacity from 1999

until his untimely death in

2004.

Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health News

Dr. Habtemariam appointed Dean


Let the sand flow through your toes as you participate in a fun 1 mile run/walk scheduled for saturday, July 1, sponsored by BUTLER.

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Dr. Tsegaye Habtemariam



College receives $1 million gift

from Diabetes Trust

FoundationThe Auburn

University College of Veterinary Medicine has received a $1 million gift from the Birmingham-based Diabetes Trust Foundation to further its studies into the disease that affects both humans and animals. Most of the gift, $900,000, will be added to the Boshell Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Research Program Endowment that was created in 2001, bringing the account total to $1.9 million. Interest from the account is used to support various diabetes research projects. Auburn will apply the remaining $100,000 toward research equipment and supplies. The Diabetes Trust Foundation was founded in 1964 by Dr. Buris R. Boshell along with friends and colleagues. Dr. Boshell, who died in 1995, was a 1947 Auburn agriculture graduate who attended the veterinary college for two years before transferring to Harvard Medical School. He served on the faculty at the University of

Alabama in Birmingham Medical Center from 1959-1989.

Avian influenza forum videos

available The college hosted

a public forum in April on avian influenza, a disease threatening global bird populations and affecting some humans. It was designed to give information about the disease and the potential consequences if it occurs in the United States, and more specifically, the effect it could have on Alabama’s $8 billion poultry industry. The speakers included Drs. Ken Nusbaum, Fred Hoerr and Haroldo Toro of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Joe Giambrone of the College of Agriculture. Dr. Nusbaum discussed public health concerns and the potential of avian flu being spread to humans. Dr. Hoerr presented the potential impact of an avian influenza outbreak on the poultry industry, and Dr. Giambrone talked about epidemiologic surveillance of avian influenza. Dr. Toro discussed his groundbreaking research on a new vaccine for

birds. Video copies of the forum are available by calling Dr. Larry Moore at (334) 844-4095; VHS tapes are $10 and DVDs are $20.

Food animal barns

dedicatedThe college dedicated

its four new food animal barns April 9, marking the completion of the final phase of the John Thomas Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital. Three of these state-of the-art facilities have been named in honor of faculty members Dr. Dwight Wolfe ’77 and Dr. Bob Carson ’73 and alumnus Dr. David McClary ’74, a member of the college’s Alumni Advisory Council. A theriogenology laboratory also has been named for Dr. Allen M. Heath, who died in an automobile accident three years ago. The new facilities include a beef cattle receiving barn and hospital barn, both 9,100 square feet, and a dairy milking barn and hospital barn, measuring 5,110 square feet each. Auburn veterinarians treated more than 1,200 bovine cases last year and have 75 dairy and 60 beef cattle on-site as teaching herds.

Wolfe named to Alabama Livestock

Hall of FameDr. Dwight Wolfe

has been named to the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Livestock Hall of Fame, being inducted Feb. 24 in Montgomery. Dr. Wolfe, a professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences, earned his veterinary degree in 1977 from Auburn and has worked 24 years with the college, teaching senior students and providing veterinary care to the state’s livestock. He served as head of the food animal section for six years and another six years as head of the Department of Large Animal Surgery and Medicine. He was named 2004 Veterinarian of the Year by the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association.

young Achievers named from Class

of 1996The college honored

seven Young Achievers during its 99th Annual Conference in April. The awards, based on professional achievement and contributions to society, are presented to select members of the graduating class

Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine News



from 10 years ago. This year’s recipients were Dr. Julie Gard, an assistant professor in the dairy specialty in the college; Dr. Beth Gibbins, an ophthalmologist at the Emergency and Specialty Animal Medical Center in Birmingham; Dr. Ted Hankes who operates Allen Animal Clinic in Gardendale and is a major in the U.S. Army Reserve Veterinary Corps; Dr. Dan Kuykendall, owner of Village Veterinary Clinic in Auburn; Dr. Chris Lanier, a major in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps stationed

in Heidelberg, Germany; Dr. Stephanie Phillips, owner of Frederick Veterinary Internal Medicine in Frederick, Maryland; and Dr. Eileen Snakard, a surgeon with SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Center in Fairfax, Virginia.

The college will honor its 2006 Distinguished Alumni, Drs. Albert Corte Jr. and Bill Carlton, during graduation May 9 and in the next Alabama Veterinarian column. In prior years, they were honored at the Annual Conference.

Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine News

(continued)

99th ANNUALCONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

Over 50 exhibitors will be on hand to present the latest in technology, goods and services. thursday, friday & saturday.

Learn more about preventing respiratory disease in horses – friday, June 30

Hospital Design – Deciding What’s Right For You – friday, June 30

Don’t miss out on the great Seafood Buffet (ticket required) and entertainment by Magician Michael Baker – thursday evening, June 29

Discover the latest in Therapeutic and Aquatic Exercises for Small Animals – friday, June 30

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Dr. Jane Nall Douthit, AUB ‘79

128 Whisperwood Lane

Madison, AL 35758

Phone: 256/461-1306

Email: [email protected]

State(s) were Licensed: AL,

KY & TN

Kind of Practice: SA only

Specialty Training: Small Animal,

General Medicine & Surgery

Region of Relief: Birmingham &

North Alabama

Dr. Thomas E. Dreher, AUB ‘88

340 Turnberry Road

Birmingham, AL 35244

Phone: 205/995-9351

Cell: 205/601-4922

Fax: 205/995-9351


State(s) where Licensed: AL

Kind of Practice: SA Exclusive

Region of Relief: Birmingham or

within 100 miles

Dr. Corey Jones, LSU ‘03

132 R.B. Orr Road

Hartselle, AL 35640

Phone: 256/684-3546

Cell: 256/684-3546



Kind of Practice: SA, LA, Mixed,

Surgery, Relief

Region of Relief: North Alabama

Appropriate Information: Special

interest in surge

Dr. H. Winston Pirtle, Sr., AUB ‘67

8560 U.S. Hwy 331

Montgomery, AL 36105

Phone: 334/399-2059

Fax: 334/288-4083



Kind of Practice: Mixed

Region of Relief: State of

Alabama - prefer within 100 miles

of Montgomery

Appropriate Information: Will

bring vehicle stocked and equipped

for equine and cattle calls.

Dr. Ralph W. Womer, Jr., AUB ‘69

1813 Jacobs Lane

Auburn, AL 36830

Phone: 334/821-2048

Fax: 334/821-2001


State(s) where Licensed: AL, GA,

FL & TX

Kind of Practice: SA only

Region of Relief: States where

licensed.

Appropriate Information:

Available for daily, weekly or

monthly relief work.

Dr. Donald C. Wood, AUB ‘68

2106 Kirkland Drive

Auburn, AL 36832

Phone: 334/826-3692 (AL)

239/389-4877 (FL)


State(s) where Licensed: AL & FL

Kind of Practice: SA

Region of Relief: AL

AUB = AUBURN UNIVERSITY LSU = LOUISIANA STATE UNIV.

Relief Vets


“Thriving In The Profession”….A great opportunity for Young Women Graduates. DON’T MISS THIS!! – saturday, July 1.

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2 VETERINARIANS WANTED: Beautiful and progressive practice in Burlington, NC seeks 2 full time veterinarians to add to our excellent staff. 24 hours, Interesting case load, lots of referrals. Orthopedics, soft tissue surgery, blood gas, doppler, laser cell counter, blood bank, etc... 4 day work week, salary very generous. New grads encouraged. Contact: [email protected]

One of the nation’s most successful mobile feline spay/neuter clinics, located on the beautiful Connecticut shoreline, has openings for a part-time and a full-time

veterinarian. We need incredibly proficient surgeons who are personable, motivated and enthusiastic to join our winning TEAM (over 88,000 surgeries since 1997). Excellent compensation for those who want to make a real difference for animals. Send resume to TEAM, P.O. Box 591, Westbrook, CT 06498. Attn: Search Committee, or to [email protected]. For info. visit www.everyanimalmatters.org.

Control your financial destiny. Salary plus high percentage quarterly bonus. Fourth associate needed for AAHA SA practice in Huntsville. Benefits include profit sharing, medical and dental insurance with ownership possible. Less than a 40 hour work week. No emergency duty. Exceptionally large support staff, well-equipped, including Caris Ultrasound with colorflow Doppler, etc. Call Rick at 256/759-7481, fax 256/882-2543.

Emergency veterinarians needed for rapidly growing small animal, referral-only, specialty practice in Alpharetta, Georgia. All Pets Emergency & Referral Center is committed to providing an environment of committed professionals working in an atmosphere which promotes the optimal well-being for our patients and clients. We have unbeaten support staff of caring, service-oriented nurses, technicians, and receptionists. Enjoy working in a professional environment with close interaction with the

specialists. Service to our referring veterinarians is also strongly attended to. If you are interested in working in a growing area with a high-level clientele; many opportunities for cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities in a pleasant climate; please send resume to C. Shuler, All Pets Emergency & Referral Center, 6460 Highway 9 North, Alpharetta, GA 30004; phone (678) 366-2500; [email protected].

Chief of Staff / Partner Veterinarians Banfield, The Pet Hospital seeks Associate Veterinarians and Partner doctors for our Decatur, and Spanish Fort, AL hospitals, as well as our Pensacola and Panama City, FL hospitals. Outstanding comp/benefits, production-based bonuses, paid vacation and holidays, continuing education allowance, and career development programs. Contact Stephanie Sullivan-Shaw at 352/409-2808, email [email protected] or visit www.banfield.net.

Chief of Staff / Partner Veterinarians Banfield, The Pet Hospital seeks Associate Veterinarians and Partner doctors for our Mobile, AL hospital. Outstanding comp/benefits, production-based bonuses, paid vacation and holidays, continuing education allowance, and career development programs. Contact Stephanie Sullivan-Shaw at 352/409-2808 email [email protected] or visit www.banfield.net.

CLASSIfIEDSALvMA cLAssifieDADVERTISING POLICY

ALVMA Members Non-Members $2.50 per line $5.00 per line

Ads will run for one quarter and must be renewed in writing, by fax of email.The editor reserves the right to accept, reject or modify material as deemed necessary to accommodate the publication format. Authors will be notified if the submission is deemed inappropriate. Material submitted will not be returned.If you wish to place a classified ad, send a copy of the ad to ALVMA, P.O. Box 3514, Montgomery, AL 39109. You may e-mail ad to [email protected] or fax ad to 334/270-3399 attention: Tammy Wallace.The ALVMA does not endorse any of the classified ads.

99th ANNUALCONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

Top Legal Issues Commonly Faced by Equine Veterinarians – friday, June 30

Avian Influenza, what you need to know – saturday, July 1

Legal issues got you concerned? Find out what to do and not to do for positioning yourself and your practice – friday, June 30

President’s Dinner and Awards – saturday, July 1

Attend the Conference Kick-off party with a wine and cheese reception sponsored by all of our fine exhibitors. thursday evening, June 29

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The Alabama Veterinarian Medical AssociationP.O. Box 3514Montgomery, AL 36109-0514

Address Service Required

Prest. Std.U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 456

Montgomery, AL 36110


vol. 17, no. 1 · winston pirtle (334) 288-4073 sr. board member at large: mike newman (256)...

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