Southern
Veterinary
Conference
Live & In-Person
/
Birmingham, AL
/
Aug. 3-6
/
100+ CE Hours


David Twedt
DVM, DACVIM
Saturday, Aug. 6
Internal Medicine
Sponsored by:

Liver Made Easy: A Simple Diagnostic Approach
This session will provide a practical approach on how to work up your patient having abnormal liver enzymes. Case examples will be used. The participant will gain an understand why liver enzymes become abnormal, when to perform bile acids, what they tell you, when a liver biopsy would be indicated and what you do with the results. The cause of abnormal liver enzymes result from either primary liver disease or from non-hepatic disease where the liver is secondarily affected. The participant will gain an understanding of how to tell the difference.
Chronic Hepatitis: It’s more common than you think
This session will provide insights into diagnosis and management of the three most common inflammatory liver conditions encountered in clinical practice including secondary reactive hepatopathies, copper associated hepatopathies and chronic hepatitis. Case examples will highlight the discussion. The participant will learn that the liver often reacts to many extrahepatic insults such as gastrointestinal, infectious, metabolic disease and endocrine disease. Further, copper associated hepatitis has become a common inflammatory condition that is secondary to diet while chronic hepatitis is often silent until the disease is quite advanced. The participant will learn how to identify these conditions.
Four Liver Conditions You Likely Did Not Learn About in Vet School
This session will provide a review of some newer or emerging canine liver problems we more frequently diagnosing; including gallbladder mucocele, portal vein hypoplasia (aka; microvascular dysplasia), ductal plate anomalies and idiopathic vacuolar hepatopathies. The participant will learn the signalments, signs, and what is required to diagnose these conditions. At the conclusion of this session, one will gain an understanding and an increased awareness of each specific condition presented.
The Icteric Cat: An Update on Feline Liver Disease
This session will review of feline liver disease with current information on the diagnosis and therapy specific to cats including emphasis on the types of cholangitis and triaditis. The participant will learn how to interpret liver laboratory tests and how they are different in the cat than the dog. Different types of cholangitis or cholangiohepatitis have different etiologies and each requires a different therapeutic approach. The participant will learn the important aspects of diagnosis and treatment plan for these conditions and should gain a good basic understanding of feline liver disease.
Update on the Diagnosis and Therapy of Acute Pancreatitis
An overview of current thoughts on the diagnosis and therapy of acute pancreatitis in the dog. The participant will learn the risk factors, the role of the Spec cPL or Precision PSL and how to interpret the results, and imaging of the pancreas. There are many systemic complications associated with acute pancreatitis will be discussed. The session will also include the four most important aspects of pancreatitis therapy and how to manage the patient following clinical recovery.
Those Troublesome Chronic Diarrhea Cases
Chronic diarrhea work-up requires a directed systematic approach beginning with simple things and then advancing to more involved diagnostics. This session will cover dietary management, antibiotic, and probiotic therapy. The role of B12 and folate, dysbiosis and fecal microbiota transplant will be discussed. Many common conditions as well as complex inflammatory bowel.

Holly Brown
DVM, PhD, DACVP
Saturday, Aug. 6
Clinical Pathology
Sponsored by:

Common patterns in the biochemical profile you don’t want to miss
This case-based session will review patterns in biochemical data from commonly encountered disease processes and includes ancillary diagnostic testing, both in-clinic and from the reference laboratory.
Urinalysis: Why pan for gold?
Challenging cases are discussed in which complete urinalysis is reviewed, both in technique and interpretation, to provide vital diagnostic information.
Don't toss that fluid! In-clinic effusion analysis
Too often, the fluids from tapped effusions are tossed in practice or submitted to the reference lab for analysis. In this case-based session, we will equip attendees with the knowledge of proper in-clinic fluid analysis, allowing for accurate and more timely results for proper patient management. Real cases will be utilized, and attendees will be engaged and encouraged to participate in the diagnostic work-up for these cases.
Tying it all together: Maximizing the diagnostic power of the minimum database
In this case-based session, we will be utilizing the minimum data base (including hematology, biochemical profiling, and the complete urinalysis) to work through advanced cases that presented at Metzger Animal Hospital. Pairing of histogram and dot plots, important microscopic findings, and ancillary diagnostics will allow for further interpretation of the automated data that is key to understanding disease and case management.

Christopher J. Reeder
DVM, DACVD
Saturday, Aug. 6
Dermatology
Sponsored by:

That Itche May Not Be Allergic
All That Itches May Not Be Allergic: Become familiar with skin conditions that cause itch but are not related to allergies. The “treat ‘em then street ‘em” mentality of using anti-pruritics for every itchy dog or cat does not apply here. Gain knowledge of how to work up the itchy pet and what causes their itching.
Dermatology Potpourri: Select Case Presentations
Dermatology Potpourri: Select Case Presentations: Jump into just how fascinating dermatology can be! We will explore some interesting cases (revealed at the lecture, so you have to attend 😊), with lots of photos, diagnostics and treatments.
Topical Therapy in Dermatology
Topical Therapy in Dermatology: Explore a variety of topically applied treatments used in dermatology for dogs and cats. This lecture will cover anti-microbials, moisturizers, immunomodulators and barrier function improvement products.
Derm Jeopardy - audience participation required
Derm Jeopardy – audience participation required: An enjoyable “Jeopardy” game show style with answers posted on various dermatology subjects (e.g. allergy, parasites, autoimmune diseases) with resulting questions to be answered by the audience with help from the speaker. Learn about common and uncommon dermatologic disease from allergies, parasites and immune-mediated diseases.

Laura M. Greene
DVM, DACVIM
Saturday, Aug. 6
Dermatology
Sponsored by:

RNA Particle Technology: One Small Replicon of RNA; One Giant Leap for Vaccinology
This presentation will review the biology and benefits of RNA particle vaccines, detailing unique features that make them different and an exciting addition to the world of veterinary vaccines. The results of a trial in cats will also be discussed.
I Need a Hero! How Technology Rescues Us in the Fight to Regulate Difficult Diabetics
Managing difficult diabetics and the intersection with technology. This is also a newer talk (as in I haven’t finished writing it yet 😉) that explores the approach to difficult/fragile diabetic cases. It first goes through a step-by-step of how to approach these cases, but then the back half of the talk explores how technology (interstitial glucose monitors, insulin pens, food and water monitors, activity monitors, etc.) is helping both owners and veterinarians to manage these cases and catch problems earlier, making them easier to get regulated.

Tomeshia Hubbard
DVM
Saturday, Aug. 6
Dermatology
Sponsored by:

Food Allergy: How do you diagnose and treat it?
Description coming soon…
Drugs Commonly Used in Veterinary Dermatology
Description coming soon…

Sonia Kuhn
DVM, DACVO
Saturday, Aug. 6
Ophthalmology
Sponsored by:

Tips for Improving Your Enucleations
This lecture will review the indications, approaches and pre and post-operative considerations for enucleation. Common complications and peri-operative analgesia will also be addressed. The majority of the time will be spent on small animal surgery but there will be some discussion of equine techniques as well.
Feline Ophthalmology: Most Common Conditions
This lecture will review the most common ophthalmic conditions in cats, including feline herpesvirus, bacterial keratitis, corneal sequestra, eosinophilic keratitis, entropion, uveitis, hypertension and others. The goal of this lecture is for the general practitioner to be able to recognize the unique eye disorders of cats and most effectively treat them.

Betsy Choder
Esq.
Saturday, Aug. 6
GA LEAP
Sponsored by:

GA LEAP
Description coming soon…

John Godbold, Jr.
DVM
Saturday, Aug. 6
Ultrasound / Thermal Imaging
Sponsored by:

CO2 Laser Surgery – Laser Tissue Interaction, Surgical Technique, and Safety
This introductory lecture will introduce CO2 laser-tissue interaction, recent innovations in CO2 laser surgical technique, and CO2 laser safety and show how laser surgery will improve patient care.
CO2 Laser Surgery Demonstration and Hands-On
In this inter-active hands-on session, CO2 laser surgery equipment will be demonstrated with emphasis on appropriate technique and ideal tissue effect. Tissue models and cadaver tissue will be used. Volunteer participants will be encouraged to join in demonstration exercises.
CO2 Laser Procedures You Can Do Every Day
During this procedure-based interactive session participants will see how the CO2 laser can be used in everyday soft-tissue procedures performed in general and speciality practice. Procedures will be shown using sequential pictures and video with discussion of laser technique and how laser use enhances procedures. Attendees will be encouraged to share their experience with procedures and discuss how recent innovations in laser power and handpiece design can improve procedure results.
Thermal Imaging - Science, Clinical Implications, and Evidence
This introductory lecture will introduce thermal imaging and explain the science and clinical implications of thermal images. Current evidence for including thermal images in patient evaluations will be examined.
Thermal Imaging Hands-On
In this inter-active hands-on session, thermal imaging equipment will be demonstrated with emphasis on appropriate technique, positioning, and evaluation of thermal images. Attendees will have opportunity to practice taking and preparing thermal images for interpretation.
Thermal Imaging – What the Pretty Colors Tell Us
This interactive session will show how to review thermal images. Clinical cases will illustrate how thermal images detect problems earlier, when physiological changes are present, before structural changes appear. Participants will be challenged to form a thermal impression of clinical images to map areas requiring further evaluation, identify secondary areas of compensation, and objectively monitor a therapeutic plan.

Laura M. Greene
DVM, DACVIM
Saturday, Aug. 6
Technicians
Sponsored by:

The Impact of Respiratory Pathogens in Dogs and Humans
Heroes for Healthy Pets, Module 3 “The Impact of Respiratory Pathogens in Dogs and Humans”. Explores how the public’s familiarity with SARS-CoV-2 and increased awareness of vaccination and its importance has informed the discussion about vaccination for canine infectious respiratory disease in the veterinary world. In particular, this talk looks at how those public health and epidemiology concepts are applied in veterinary medicine and examines the effect of CIRD outbreaks in a clinic (such as a canine influenza outbreak).
I Need a Hero! How Technology Rescues Us in the Fight to Regulate Difficult Diabetics
Managing difficult diabetics and the intersection with technology. This is also a newer talk (as in I haven’t finished writing it yet 😉) that explores the approach to difficult/fragile diabetic cases. It first goes through a step-by-step of how to approach these cases, but then the back half of the talk explores how technology (interstitial glucose monitors, insulin pens, food and water monitors, activity monitors, etc.) is helping both owners and veterinarians to manage these cases and catch problems earlier, making them easier to get regulated.

Sheryl Gamble
DVM, MS
Saturday, Aug. 6
Technicians
Sponsored by:

Merck Animal Health Veterinary Wellbeing Study/ New Insights into Veterinarian Wellbeing and How to Improve It
Mental health, wellbeing, and suicide continue to be challenging issues facing the veterinary profession. This presentation reveals the results of the third Merck Animal Health Wellbeing Study, conducted in partnership with AVMA and Brakke Consulting. These data result from a representative survey of veterinarians on the topics of wellbeing and mental health and compares the results to two previous studies conducted earlier. The new study also includes a deeper understanding of the impact of the COVID pandemic, a deeper understanding of burnout and its causes, and an understanding of what research tells us about how veterinarians can enjoy a more fulfilling, happier career. This presentation also looks at the wellbeing of the veterinary staff for the first time.
Vaccinology 101: How Vaccines Work and Work for You
This course covers the science behind vaccines and vaccine protocols. We will show how to develop SOPs and protocols surrounding vaccines to ensure consistency. We will discuss the basics of vaccinology and immunology so that you are better equipped to answer questions from pet owners. Specifically, we will cover immunological terms, explain different types of vaccines, review the recommended canine and feline vaccination protocols, discuss vaccine efficacy, and review best practices on vaccine storage.

Mark Pelham
DVM
Saturday, Aug. 6
Technicians
Sponsored by:

Merck Animal Health Veterinary Wellbeing Study/ New Insights into Veterinarian Wellbeing and How to Improve It
Mental health, wellbeing, and suicide continue to be challenging issues facing the veterinary profession. This presentation reveals the results of the third Merck Animal Health Wellbeing Study, conducted in partnership with AVMA and Brakke Consulting. These data result from a representative survey of veterinarians on the topics of wellbeing and mental health and compares the results to two previous studies conducted earlier. The new study also includes a deeper understanding of the impact of the COVID pandemic, a deeper understanding of burnout and its causes, and an understanding of what research tells us about how veterinarians can enjoy a more fulfilling, happier career. This presentation also looks at the wellbeing of the veterinary staff for the first time.
Vaccinology 101: How Vaccines Work and Work for You
This course covers the science behind vaccines and vaccine protocols. We will show how to develop SOPs and protocols surrounding vaccines to ensure consistency. We will discuss the basics of vaccinology and immunology so that you are better equipped to answer questions from pet owners. Specifically, we will cover immunological terms, explain different types of vaccines, review the recommended canine and feline vaccination protocols, discuss vaccine efficacy, and review best practices on vaccine storage.

Missy Streicher
AAS, CVT, VTS
Saturday, Aug. 6
SessionCategory
Sponsored by:

Treatment Options for Management of Allergic Patients
Recognition of allergies (atopy, food and flea) clinical signs and distribution patterns of pruritus will be discussed, consideration of secondary infections, and available therapies currently available in veterinary medicine for cats and dogs.
Otitis for Technicians
The attendee will learn about anatomy of the ear, recognition of underlying cause of otitis, proper restraint for an otoscopic exam, ear cytology and ear cleaning tips.

Sal Longo, Jr.
NCARB
Saturday, Aug. 6
Hospital Design
Sponsored by:

Understanding the Design and Construction Process: Roles and Responsibilities
The thought of undertaking a construction project can seem like a daunting task. Seeing a checklist of all participating parties and their responsibilities can certainly appear overwhelming. A better understanding of what occurs during each step of the design and construction process can help alleviate some of that stress. The Objective of this presentation is to explain what you can expect from this process by understanding the roles and responsibilities of all of the project team members.
Renovate or Build New: Deciding What’s Right for You
Most veterinarians get to a point in their careers where they find space in their building is becoming limited. They realize two Exam Rooms aren’t sufficient, one Treatment table is not sufficient and 5 runs are not enough. When they begin to lose potential revenue, that’s when they know they’ve outgrown the building and it’s time to make some tough decisions. One question they will face is whether to add on to the existing building or to find new property and build from scratch. The Objective of this presentation is to look at the advantages and disadvantages of renovating and building new to help you determine what’s right for you.
Ways to Find Space and Stretch Your Budget
When it comes to designing an animal facility properly, it’s not the size of the clinic that’s important, but the attention to detail. The same thought and consideration needs to go into designing a 1,200 s.f. facility as a 12,000 s.f. facility. Unfortunately, space and money are not endless, so it is even more important to make the right decisions to get the most value for your dollar. The Objective of this presentation is to discuss creative ways to find extra space in your building when your budget is tight.

Peter Hill
AIA
Saturday, Aug. 6
Hospital Design
Sponsored by:

Site Selection and Planning
In this lecture we will begin the journey of building a new project with Andy and Val, two young veterinarians getting started. The site is the first major investment and we will examine the myriad of factors that play a part in the decisions you will make regarding purchasing and developing the site.
Renovate or Build New: Deciding What’s Right for You
Most veterinarians get to a point in their careers where they find space in their building is becoming limited. They realize two Exam Rooms aren’t sufficient, one Treatment table is not sufficient and 5 runs are not enough. When they begin to lose potential revenue, that’s when they know they’ve outgrown the building and it’s time to make some tough decisions. One question they will face is whether to add on to the existing building or to find new property and build from scratch. The Objective of this presentation is to look at the advantages and disadvantages of renovating and building new to help you determine what’s right for you.
Design Trends and New Services in Animal Care
We will take an exciting look forward with our subjects. 5 years later we want to explore the latest design influences and animal care services. An animal hospital can be a very scary place for your pet. The issues of reducing stress, and enhancing the animal’s connection to the natural world, can and should be fully incorporated into the building design. The facility should assist the staff in lowering the anxiety, stress, and aggression experienced in the animal hospital. What would a Tiny practice look like? The idea of a one or two exam room practice with a staff of 8 or 10 motivated and passionate people doesn’t sounds like a bad option. If we fully consider the tiny hospital concept the first thing to think about is where will it go?