We've adapted and learned so much. Now we take this knowledge forward with us - VOLUME XIX - Michigan Veterinary Medical ...
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GROWING TOGETHER
We’ve adapted and learned so much.
Now we take this knowledge
forward with us.
VOLUME XIX · NUMBER 4 · W I N T E R 2020
When treating
four-legged patients,
TABLE OF CONTENTS
make each 05 MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER
21
TOP 5 RECOMMENDATIONS TO KEEP
EVERYONE SAFE WHEN ALLOWING
moment 2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS By John Tramontana, MS, CAE
CLIENTS BACK IN THE OFFICE
matter.
Dr. Melissa Owings, President By Samuel Florio
_
Dr. Christian Ast, President-Elect
Dr. Erin Howard, First Vice President
Dr. Larry Letsche, Second Vice President
Dr. Michael Thome, Immediate Past President
07 2020 AS A VETERINARIAN IN
MICHIGAN
By Melissa Owings, DVM
Dr. Stephen Steep, AVMA Delegate
Dr. Jill Lynn, AVMA Alternate Delegate IF 2021 BECOMES A YEAR OF
PNC can help. DIRECTORS REPRESENTING DISTRICTS
Dr. Megan McQuade,(1) Southern 09
MICHIGAN ADMINISTRATIVE
RULES UPDATES – WHAT’S AHEAD
FOR 2021
22 TRAVEL, WILL YOUR CLIENTS (AND
THEIR PETS) BE READY?
Dr. Kristin Knirk, (2 & 3) Michiana & Southwestern By Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM
Dr. Erin Whalin, (4) Jackson By Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
Dr. Chelsea Render, (5 & 9) Washtenaw & Livingston
10 FACING THE PANDEMIC FROM THE
Dr. Tim Duncan, (6 & 8) Wayne & Oakland
Dr. Julie Sherman, (7) Macomb
STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVE
Dr. Dana Tatman-Lilly, (10) Mid-State
Dr. Susan Schoen Farmer, (11) Western By Kara Henrys LEGISLATIVE UPDATE:
Dr. Joseph Kline, (12 & 13) Saginaw & Thumb
Dr. Anne Shuff, (14) Northeastern
Dr. Kenny Rogers, (15) Northern
24 2020 ELECTION RESULTS & FUTURE
LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES
By Matt Breslin, J.D.
DIRECTORS REPRESENTING ASSOCIATIONS
Dr. Jeff Bunn, MI Equine Practitioners
Dr. Lucy Henney, Southeastern Michigan VMA 13 MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
JEAN HUDSON, DVM
T:10”
By Samuel Florio
AT LARGE DIRECTORS
TAKING STOCK:
25
Dr. Henry Reinart, Food Animal
Dr. Srinand Sreevatsan, MSU CVM
Dr. Claire Hankenson, Lab Animal Medicine 15 LISTEN. TEACH. SHARE.
HOW WILL YOU MOVE FORWARD?
By Julie Cappel, DVM
WHAT COVID EXPOSED AND THE
LESSONS LEARNED FROM IT
By Jodi Schafer, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Taking Stock:
The Michigan Veterinarian is published quarterly in
March, June, September, and December.
Deadlines are the first of the preceding month.
Michigan Veterinary Medical Association
2144 Commons Parkway,
16 MANDATORY CE
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW FOR 2021
By Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
27
AVMA UPDATE:
VOLUNTEERING WITH AVMA TO
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Okemos, MI 48864-3986
By Jill Lynn, DVM & Stephen Steep, DVM
We’re making business banking easier. p. (517) 347-4710 f. (517) 347-4666
UPDATE
mvma@michvma.org | www.michvma.org
At PNC, our team of dedicated Healthcare Business Bankers understands your business challenges and the important role
that cash flow plays in your success. That’s why we offer a range of solutions to help optimize management of your practice’s
revenue cycle and payables, so your business can run with less complexity and payments can be received promptly.
Visit pnc.com/hcprofessionals or call 877-566-1355 to learn more.
The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association
represents the veterinary profession in Michigan,
18 10 TIPS TO GET THE MOST FROM
EVERY LABORATORY SUBMISSION
By Dr. James Averill, DVM, PhD 28 NEW CLASSIFIEDS &
RELIEF VETS
advances the knowledge and standards of its
34
membership, and promotes the science, practice,
and value of veterinary medicine for the benefit of COMMITTEES, MEETINGS
animal and human health. & EVENTS
©2020 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 03
At MedVet Commerce,
Collaborative,Comprehensive Care
Now Includes Cardiology, Internal Medicine, and Surgery!
CEO MESSAGE
Moving Forward Together
MedVet Commerce By John Tramontana, MS, CAE
Specialty Services We’re tired. We’re cranky. We’re overwhelmed. We’re over Great Lakes Veterinary Conference in June, for a new and
24/7 Emergency Medicine it. We have all felt these emotions at some point during interactive event that’s being planned at the Grand Hotel
this pandemic, but our resolve continues to help us over- on Mackinac Island in fall, and for the Michigan Veteri-
Cardiology
come those obstacles and so many others. We’ve all had nary Conference next December.
Internal Medicine to be resilient this year. Whether it’s challenges at work,
Neurology at home, trying to help our kids through virtual school, or These are just a few of the events we have planned in ad-
Rehabilitation doing everything possible to protect those we care about dition to numerous other initiatives. We’ll explore new
Marco Cervi Alyssa Pinkos Jennifer Clooten who may be more vulnerable to this virus, it seems as if membership models so you can find a plan that works
DVM, DACVS-SA DVM, DACVIM DVM, DVSc, Surgery
there has been something lurking around just about every best for you. We’ll strive to be a more diverse, equitable
(Cardiology) DACVIM (SAIM) corner. and inclusive organization to ensure no one is left behind.
We’ll offer more continuing education opportunities both
MedVet Commerce But in the midst of this holiday season, there is reason for online and in person. These initiatives will help us to
1120 Welch Rd. hope. Hope that the end is near. Hope that we will once expand our value proposition to meet and exceed your
Commerce, MI 48390
248.960.7200 again gather in person to learn and grow together. Hope needs. Our job is to serve you, and to help promote and
that the burden so many of you have endured in 2020 will protect your profession. We will become a more mem-
medvet.com soon be lifted. ber-centric organization in 2021.
I’m most looking forward to coming out of this together, As we prepare to turn the page on 2020, I wanted to per-
stronger than we were before. Looking back before this sonally thank you. Thank you for supporting MVMA.
pandemic, I took many simple things for granted—seeing Thank you for being there for your clients, patients, stu-
and working with my staff every day and interacting with dents, employers, employees and others. We are very
Making life better for veterinary practices
veterinarians from across the state, to name a few. I’m a grateful for all you have done and continue to do. All of
and teams since 1997
social person by nature and working with people energiz- us at MVMA wish you a safe and happy holiday season. I
es me. I have missed that. It doesn’t translate very well to look forward to seeing you all in the new year as we move
Zoom, or Teams or GoToMeeting. forward together.
I don’t think I’ve ever been more ready to end a year and
turn the calendar to a new chapter. The year 2021 is near-
ly here and exciting things are happening at MVMA and
in veterinary medicine. As we prepare to move forward
together, we bring a new appreciation to our work and to
each other. I am hopeful we will be able to gather for the
Whether you’re looking to find a new
job opportunity or sell your practice...
choose the company that encourages
you to stay true to your patients, community, team,
John Tramontana, MS, CAE, is MVMA’s CEO
and yourself.
and can be reached at 517.347.4710
acq@vetcor.com / www.vetcor.com or tramontana@michvma.org.
Connect
04 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 05
Locally Owned locally operated PRESIDENT'S LETTER
Oakland Veterinary Referral Services (OVRS) is one of the most comprehensive
veterinary specialty facilities in the country. Our Veterinary Specialists are
2020 as a Veterinarian in Michigan By Melissa Owings, DVM
board-certified in their area of expertise, and they are supported by a highly
From my perspective, personally and professionally, this has been a year of major decision fatigue. As a practice owner, the volume of infor-
trained staff of licensed veterinary technicians.
mation that needs to be processed regarding the pandemic in addition to managing all the facets of practice ownership is overwhelming. The
Our expert professionals, state-of-the-art technology and wide range of stress and the rigors of maintaining social distancing, monitoring staff exposure and quarantines, seeing increased numbers of emergency
treatment options all contribute to excellent veterinary care. We are proud medical and surgical cases, performing curbside visits, implementing telemedicine, and most importantly, assessing staff morale and promot-
to have earned the confidence, trust and respect of thousands of local ing overall wellbeing has been beyond challenging. However, we are fortunate to say that the vast majority of clients have been supportive
veterinarians and pet owners alike by offering exceptional care and and understanding regarding our new protocols. Below are fellow veterinarians who cared to share their experiences with you as well.
outstanding services in a nurturing environment. Matthew W. Beal, DVM DACVECC | Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
“As I reflect back on the COVID-19 pandemic and it’s (ongoing) impact on veterinary medicine, I’m most proud of the rapid adaptation to operations
that we were able to achieve among the teams at the MSU VMC with a special (biased) appreciation for my team in the ECCM Service that maintained
Providing Specialty Care for 30 Years
operations throughout. I’m proud of the proactive preventative measures that the University, College and VMC rapidly implemented to mitigate the risk
of transmission within the VMC and especially the acceptance and adoption of these policies by our entire VMC community. I’m looking forward to that
rapidly brightening light at the end of the tunnel that will allow us to return to a greater sense of normalcy and face to face contact with clients. I hope that
the world uses this tragic experience to respond even more efficiently and effectively to the next global threat that we may face.”
1400 South Telegraph Road | Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 Lori Penman, DVM | Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health
Ph: (866) 334-6877 Fax: (248) 334-3693 E-mail: info@ovrs.com www.ovrs.com “I’ve been fortunate to have been spared personal tragedy, so my overall reaction to the pandemic has been one of shock and disappointment – mostly at
how easy it turned out to be to politicize a medical issue and, in turn, contribute to such divisiveness in our country. I would have hoped for the opposite.
Professionally, however, it’s encouraged me to embrace technology in a much broader scope, not only for working, but also to maintain communications
and interactions with clients and colleagues, friends and family. In fact, I’ve seen this as another example of the incredible adaptability of veterinarians in
general, as so many adopted online/technology-driven methods to serve patients and communicate effectively with clients and ease the burden on staff and
When Selling or Buying practices in the process. Veterinarians are amazingly resilient!”
a Veterinary Practice
Charles E. DeCamp, DVM, MS, DACVS | Animal Surgical Center of Michigan
Call on the… “Everything is different, everything is the same. I go to work with an uncomfortable N-95 squashed to my face for 10-11 hours straight. My nose hurts. Peo-
ple are at a distance, no touching, I may never shake a hand again. Worried co-workers and family, I am home again, waiting for the latest COVID hospital
incursion to pass so I can go back to work. Although I have not seen a client in months, I still talk on the phone. My phone is now everything. Sometimes I
FaceTime with them, that is new. Most are routine, but I still look for that moment of empathy, or special concern for someone with real need for their animal
friend. I still know that I can be there for them at that moment and that I am good at it."
Kurt Liljeberg, DVM An expanded version with additional comments and quotes is now available online at www.michvma.org/PLWinter2020.
Licensed Real Estate Broker
Experienced Practice Broker This year has had its challenges, but it also As your outgoing MVMA President, it
has presented opportunities for growth has been an honor serving you during this
Appraisals
that will positively affect our future. I wish challenging year. The support you have
Practice Sales
to acknowledge our MVMA DEI (Diversi- shown to one another and efforts by the
Associate Buy-In/Out
ty, Equality, and Inclusivity) Committee MVMA staff to keep you informed has
Corporate Buy-Out
and Dr. Debbye Turner Bell and Dr. Jeanne been truly inspiring. Your resilience and
Office: 800-380-6872 Porter King for their timely and important ingenuity have allowed you to emerge
Fax: 866-813-3639 work. As we come to the inevitable end of even stronger than yesterday. And from
Email: kurt@tpsgsales.com
Web: www.TotalPracticeSolutionsGroup.com COVID-19 and reintegrate back to “nor- the bottom of my heart, I thank you for
mal” life, a new chapter begins. In this your dedication, hard work, compassion,
~ Easy Transitions for Mutual Profit ~ chapter, the MVMA looks to understand and strategic implementation of safety Dr. Melissa Owings
barriers and build lasting bridges. measures. I wish you the very best and Melissa Owings, DVM, is the MVMA’s 2020 President,
look forward to serving you in 2021. and can be reached at kibbypark@live.com or 517.347.4710.
06 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 07
�rac�ce Owners�i�...
Be able to financially provide for your family
Have the ability to control your schedule
Finances flowing to pay off student debt more quickly
Control of your medicine & how your prac�ce is operated
�n�imite� in�ome �oten��� �ers�s � �imite� s���r�
PEOPLE, PETS AND PRACTICE:
Create and live the lifestyle you desire YOUR VETERINARY QUESTIONS ANSWERED
David McCormick, MS, CVA • Richard Goebel, DVM, AIBA The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) has been updating rules. Euthanasia at animal shelters, veterinary prac-
�rac�ce Owners�i� isn’t for everyone, 888.746.3717 • Greatlakes@simmonsinc.com• www.simmonsinc.com tice, and controlled substances are topics of three of the rule sets currently in the update process. These are worth paying attention to since
but if it is for YOU… they may impact your veterinary activities.
�or future owners� �ere are a few of our �is�ngs in t�e �reat �akes Region… IN: I����N���� � ���� ������������ ��� ������� ��������� ������ ��������� ���
�������� �� ������ �� � ���� ��������� ������ �������� ���� �� ���� ����������
Michigan Administrative Rules Updates – What’s Ahead for 2021 By Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
MI: N������� � N�� �� ��� ����� ���������� ���� ����������� 2�� ������� �����
��� ���� ��������� (IN�1�)
������ ��������� ���� ��������� B��� �������� ��� �� ��� ��� ���� (�I21�) The Michigan Department of Licensing of the process should you want to observe tion rules and the current law now so you
IN: ������� C������ � �������� ��� ���� ������ ��� ������� ����� ����� ������
MI: ����� ���� ‐ C�������� ������ �������� ������� �� �������� ������� 1 ����
��������� ������������� ���� ������� �������� ��� � ����� ������ ���� (IN82�) and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is having it. The Boards’ Rules Working Group know what is ahead in 2021. This rule set
�������� ���� �������� ���� ����� ������ ��������� ����� ��������� (�I208)
IN: I�������� � ����� �� ��������� �������� �� �� ���������� �������������� ����
MI: ����� ���� � ���� �� �������� ����� ����� �������� �� ������� ��� ������
�������� ��������� B��� �������� ��� ���� ������ ��� ���� (IN808) Boards of licensed occupations review meetings are open to the public even is being updated to reflect changes that
�������� ���������� ����� ������� ����� �������� �� ����� (�I�25)
MI: C������ � ������������ �������� ����� ������ �������� ���� �������� ���� 1��
IN� N������� � ������� �������� ������������� N��� �������� ������� ���� and update their respective rules. This though this may not be required by the were made in the Michigan Public Health
�������� ��� ���� �������� ���� ���� �� ����� �������� ��� �� ��� �����
B��� ��� �������� ��� ���� ������ ��� ��� ����� (�I222)
(IN805) includes three rule sets that directly im- Open Meetings Act. With Zoom meetings Code, 333.7333, in 2018 regarding training
OH: N�������� � ���� ����� ������ �������� ���� ���� �������� ���� ��������
��� ��������� ������ ������������ ���� ���� �������� �������� � ��� ����
�o �e�rn more �bo�t �n� o� these ownershi� o��ort�ni�es� pact veterinarians. The rules are Board now, you can tune in and listen to discus- and use of additional tranquilizers at shel-
�o� ��n �om��ete the �onfi�en���it� ��reement on the
������ �� ��� ���� (�H�05) Simmons website: of Pharmacy – Animal Euthanasia and sions as rule updates are crafted. You may ters registered with Michigan Department
OH: N�������� � ���� �������� ���� 2��00 ������ ��������� ����� ��� ������ ������� www.simmonsinc.com
����� �� ����� �� ������� �������� ��� ���� ������ ��� ���� (�H210) Sedation Rules; Veterinary Medicine – also be subscribed to email updates and of Agriculture and Rural Development.
�on�t see �o�r ��t�re �r����e� �o� ��n ��so re�ister �or the �immons �rac�ce �atc�—when we
h��e � new �is�n�� � no��e is sent to the �r����e ��t�h �ist first. General Rules; and Board of Pharmacy – be notified of activity on rules by going to Specifically, training standards were en-
Controlled Substances Rules. The Animal https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/ hanced, the person in charge of the animal
Euthanasia and Sedation Rules and the MILARA/subscriber/new. shelter will have to receive training, and
Veterinary Medicine General Rules are the definition of “animal tranquilizer”
well along in the process. The Controlled MVMA monitors the rule making process was expanded to include not only a com-
Substances Rules are earlier in the process. with the help of our lobbyist, Matt Breslin. mercially prepared solution of xylazine
As a profession, we need to pay attention There is a public hearing before any rule hydrochloride, but also a commercially
> Payroll to all three rule sets. is finalized and MVMA does not hesitate prepared solution of ketamine, or a com-
> QuickBooks Support to comment if needed. As of Dec. 1, there mercially prepared compound containing
An administrative rule, according to is a public hearing scheduled on Dec. 18 tiletamine and zolazepam. The new train-
> Tax Planning
LARA, “is an agency's written regulation, for comment on proposed changes to Vet- ing standard for all permittees kicks in on
> Bookkeeping statement, standard, policy, ruling, or in- erinary Medicine – General Rules. You Jan. 1, 2022, so 2021 will be a training year
> Bank Reconciliations struction that has the effect of law. A state can check for updates at Rules Currently for many. Be sure to read the law along
agency writes rules under authority of Pending in the Rulemaking Process. As with the proposed rules since the rules ex-
> Acquisitions
state statute, the Michigan Administrative of Dec. 1, general information is available pand on part of the law but not all the law.
Procedures Act, the Michigan Constitu- for Board of Pharmacy – Animal Eutha-
Schultz & Associates, PLC tion, and applicable federal law.” Rules nasia and Sedation Rules and Veterinary Stay tuned for more as the progress on
Certified Public Accountants are generally intended to better define Medicine – General Rules. Updates to the rules updates continues.
and add more detail to what is already in Board of Pharmacy Controlled Substances
Personalized Bookkeeping and Tax Services a law. The rules making process is rather Rules are still under discussion and not far
Schultz has been providing bookkeeping, complex and it usually takes a substan- enough along in the process to have infor- Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, is
payroll and tax services for 25+ years. tial amount of time to get through all the mation posted. MVMA’s Staff Veterinarian, and can be reached
From bank reconciliations to payroll, required steps. To learn more about the at frank@michvma.org or 517.347.4710.
we help to organize the numbers to
process, please visit www.michvma.org/ While MVMA will provide a review once
provide accurate monthly profit and
LARAAdminRules. What is nice right the rules are finalized, if you interact with Dr. Nancy Frank is a current member of the Board
loss statements.
now, under Governor Whitmer’s Execu- an animal shelter, you may want to review of Veterinary Medicine. Her viewpoints do not
WWW.SCHULTZ-CPA.COM | P. 734-354-2380 EXT 104 | JSCHULTZ@SCHULTZ-CPA.COM tive Directive 2019-11, is the transparency the proposed animal euthanasia and seda- necessarily represent the viewpoints of the Board.
An extended version and sources used in this article can be found at www.michvma.org/PeoplePetsandPractice.
08 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 09
BAYLA BESSEMER, CLASS OF 2023
There have been both a lot of wins and losses throughout COVID. It goes without saying that the outbreak
changed what the Spring and Fall semesters looked like (and possibly the upcoming spring). The first few weeks
were the hardest because there was a huge learning curve for 'the new normal.' Everything I enjoyed shut down
FACING THE one by one: the college, the gym, my yoga studio, and my favorite restaurants. Being 1000 miles from home did not
make things any easier. Watching my family deal with COVID and the hurricane season from the sidelines made
PANDEMIC
me feel like a bad daughter. Additionally, there are many milestones that I am going to miss in veterinary school,
and that alone is a difficult reality without all of the other traumas that come with the uncertainty of the time.
FROM THE STUDENTS’ That being said, as I have learned how to navigate all of the craziness, I am reminded that I have a whole career
ahead of me where I will get plenty more chances to be hands-on.
PERSPECTIVE I have grown in many ways over the past eight months that I would not have without COVID. In undergrad, I was
30 minutes away from my family and barely ever spoke to them. Now at 15 hours away, I call every week, even if
By Kara Henrys
I have nothing to talk about. I have also discovered a lot about how I learn - turns out, I am NOT a good auditory
This pandemic has been a part of our lives learner. After discovering this, I changed the way I study, and my grades have stayed high despite being the most
for almost a year now, and it has changed academically rigorous vet school year. I have learned how to stay motivated and appreciative of every moment.
not just the way you practice medicine, but Even if it looks different, I am still in veterinary school.
also how your future colleagues are pre-
paring to enter practice. When fall started, Most of all, I have gotten to see how amazing the field I am in really is. The MSU faculty have been amazingly
national attention turned to the education accommodating, despite also having to deal with the changes COVID brought to their lives. The veterinary com-
system and the start of classes at college munity worked really hard to give us opportunities, which I really appreciate. Although there have been fewer
campuses across the country. Restrictions hands-on opportunities, I have been given access to tons of new resources and a cool project.
still in effect, coursework remained online,
and much-anticipated orientation and net- I don't know what the next few months bring, but I am ready to face it head-on and learn to adapt. I genuinely feel
working events were canceled or hosted like, if anything, I will be a better doctor for it!
virtually. Students found themselves in
the unique position of not just managing LEONNE CHUNG, CLASS OF 2024
challenging academics presented in an en- Moving across country from California to attend veterinary school at Michigan State in the midst of a pandemic
tirely new format, but also doing so with- was honestly not an easy task. I was looking forward to meeting my classmates, developing life-long relationships
out their typical community and support with other people who shared the same passion, and finally getting the hands-on education I have always dreamed
systems in place. about. However, this was soon cut short because within two weeks into the semester, it was announced the year
one and two classes would be switched to being completely online.
Recently Governor Whitmer’s chief med-
ical executive, Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, said It has been difficult learning the musculoskeletal system and nervous system through a screen. Between Zoom labs
Michigan is at its worst point since the start and lectures all day, most of my time consist of trying to find creative ways to learn and study the information
of the pandemic. The weather is turning such as using Colorado State University’s Virtual Anatomy Program.
colder, and veterinarians are once again
faced with learning how to best serve their Although there are times where I get overwhelmed and feel that this is not the vet school experience I was looking
clients through innovation. We wanted to for, I have been able to form a meaningful relationship with fellow classmates. Together we have found unique
check in with the students at the MSU Col- ways to bond and study.
lege of Veterinary Medicine to see how the
pandemic has affected them, and how they I look forward to when we return to a new “normal” and I can finally get the veterinary school experience I have
feel about the future of the profession. always dreamed of. Until then, I will continue enjoying the beautiful fall colors Michigan has to offer.
MOVING FORWARD
Veterinary school is an environment where socialization is not just encouraged but expected, and ev-
eryone we spoke to seems to miss this part the most. Connecting through Zoom is sometimes just not
enough, especially when you’re homesick. Bayla and Leonne are both looking forward to the spring
when the anticipated vaccine brings hope of the return to at least some form of “normality.”
Kara Henrys is MVMA’s Director of Member Services, and can be reached at henrys@michvma.org or 517.347.4710.
10 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 11
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medicine started in her elementary school decisions we make as a board will help co-workers, for whom she is very thankful.
years, but it was at Michigan State Uni- advance veterinary medicine and make “With kids being out of school this year
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veterinary assistant position at MSU’s Vet- many wonderful grant opportunities, but and sanity. For that and everything else
erinary Medical Center in the Small Ani- one program I hope more veterinarians they do, I can’t thank them enough.”
You care for your patients, we care for your technology. mal Critical Department. There she would participate in this year, is the Companion
601 Three Mile Rd NW, Suite C, Grand Rapids, MI 49544 | CELEBRATING 16 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE meet Alice Parr, a licensed veterinary tech- Animal Fund. MVMA veterinary hospitals Dr. Hudson also mentioned that in your
nician who would welcome Dr. Hudson on are eligible to receive up to $500 per client quiet time, try disconnecting as much pos-
to the team. As a result, Dr. Hudson would and a total of up to $500 per clinic/hospital, sible, finding healthy hobbies and activi-
find her calling, falling in love with both per year.” ties that bring you satisfaction.
the animal and people aspect of veterinary
medicine. And two years later, Dr. Hudson In addition to work and community service “I started experimenting several years
According to LARA & MVMA,
would be accepted to MSU’s College of activities, Dr. Hudson is a devoted wife, ago with jewelry making because I want-
compounded drugs for in office use and Veterinary Medicine (CVM). Fast forward mother of two small children, and a small ed to make my staff something special for
administration must come from a 503B to present day and Dr. Hudson is now an business owner. This has been a tumultu- Christmas,” said Dr. Hudson. “I came to
Facility. Epicur is licensed in MI! associate veterinarian at Laingsburg Ani- ous year for veterinary professionals. So, find out it was a very therapeutic activity
mal Hospital. Also, she volunteers on two Dr. Hudson was asked if she could share for me, and since that time, I’ve honed my
boards, the Michigan Animal Health Foun- any advice on managing stress, work-life skills and now make personalized stetho-
dation (MAHF) and the Michigan Board of balance, and well-being. scope ID tags and other jewelry pieces for
Veterinary Medicine (MBVM). my online Etsy store.”
“I learned early on that you can’t pour
“I’m so appreciative of those at MSU who from an empty cup,” she said. “Between As this year comes to an end, Dr. Hudson
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narian at Laingsburg Animal Hospital, and
can be reached at (517) 651-9777.
12 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 13
Listen. Teach. Share.
HOW WILL YOU MOVE FORWARD?
By Julie Cappel, DVM
NOVI OFFICE
(Monday - Friday)
We are veterinarians. We talk, we touch, we serve, and we care. 2020 what have you done to us? When this year began, we were excited
24360 Novi Road, Suite A
Novi, MI 48375 about a shiny new decade filled with possibility. How did we end up here?
248.946.4322
Practice and life have changed so radically this year that 2021 cannot get here soon enough. As the months of COVID-19 drag on into our
ROCHESTER OFFICE new year, we must attempt to make the best of this unusual situation and vow to learn something positive from it. Learn to communicate
(Monday, Tuesday & Thursday) better, care for our patients better, and protect ourselves in order to continue to thrive in this amazing profession that we all chose to love.
Willam A. Brown Joanne L. DeSana 265 E. 2nd Street
DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Rochester, MI 48307
248.402.4322
VETERINARY CARDIOLOGY A r e t h e r e l e s s o n s t h at w e c a n c a r r y i n t o 2 0 2 1 ?
ANN ARBOR OFFICE
CONSULTANTS
(Wednesday)
Listen more carefully. Whether you are doing telephone communication with curbside service, telemedicine
2150 W. Liberty
Ann Arbor, MI 48103 appointments, or you have returned to having clients in the exam room, you must practice active listening.
Because we are wearing masks and speaking over the phone, we miss much of the non-verbal communication
Committed to healing hearts and improving lives... 248.946.4322
that we previously depended on from clients. Pay attention to the words, but also the tone and cadence of the
conversation. Much can be gleaned from listening carefully and then reflecting with questions to clarify. I find
it helpful to repeat things back to clients in my own words to ensure that we have mutual understanding. If
vetcardiologyconsultants.com you are impatient like me it may seem like wasted time, but if you miss something communicated, you will
lose more time in the subsequent conversations that will become necessary to clear up the misunderstanding.
Teach your brain not to judge. It is so easy when clients are not in the room with us to judge their behavior
and decision making. Remember that each individual has their own stressors and motivations. Their primi-
tive brain is responding to world events and they sometimes feel out of control. It will not serve your mental
health to try to control others’ thinking or behavior. Remember that adult humans get to do whatever they
want to do. You can only control you. Judgment will not change a situation, so you might as well let it go
to protect your mental health. If you refrain from judgement you will be more open to understanding your
clients wants and needs. Less judgment allows for more empathy.
Share empathy more freely. Most people that are faced with difficult decisions or situations just want to feel
loved. Covid-19 is a uniquely difficult situation. Clients want things to go back to normal, but nothing about
this is normal. If you open yourself up to caring for the humans, they will allow you to better care for their
pets. Empathy feels like it takes big emotional energy to convey, but caring for others does not mean that you
cannot also care for yourself. You can share empathy for a client’s situation without fixing anything for them.
Saying something like, “I understand that this is difficult, and I feel for you. I am here to help you make your
decision.” This statement allows you to express understanding without changing your recommendations or
hospital rules. If you practice self-care first your capacity for empathy will grow.
When the world gets difficult, we need to remember that we are
"The past is a place of reference, not a place of
all working towards the same goals. Increased prosperity, im-
proved health, and happiness for our team, clients, pets, and our- residence; the past is a place of learning,
not a place of living.”
selves. Vow to enter 2021 with an open mind and an open heart
and remember that people that own pets and work in this profes-
sion are unique beautiful individuals. We’ve got this! - Roy T. Bennett
Julie Cappel, DVM, is the director of Warren Woods Veterinary Hospital and a certified life coach. Dr. Cappel can be reached at jacappeldvm@gmail.
com or 586.751.3350. Also, join Dr. Cappel weekly on her podcast,"The Veterinary Life Coach Podcast", available on iTunes and Spotify.
14 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 15
MANDATORY CE
UNDERSTAND THE REQUIREMENTS
The details for mandatory CE for veterinarians are in the LARA Veterinary Medicine Rules. The details for the opioid
training are in the Board of Pharmacy Controlled Substances Rules. You can find the rules by going to www.michvma.
org/LARAAdminRules. Rules for mandatory CE for veterinary technicians can also be found here. Veterinary technician
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW FOR 2021 CE requirements are similar to veterinarian CE requirements though fewer CE hours are required for veterinary techni-
cians.
Basically, 45 hours of CE are required for veterinarians every three years. Thirty hours must be scientific in nature, one
By Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
hour must relate to medical records, and one hour must relate to state veterinary law and/or federal or state controlled
substance laws. At least 10 hours must be completed live and in-person. LARA has indicated, in a Nov. 16 Clarification
We now have a full year of experience with mandatory continuing education for license renewal for both veterinarians and veterinary Document1, that during the pandemic emergency, if CE is earned through technology solutions that allow for synchro-
technicians. About one-third of licensed veterinarians were directly impacted in 2020 and the second group of veterinarians will start nously/real-time exchange or interaction with the program instructor and delivery of course materials such as a live webi-
their cycle in 2021. The most frequently asked questions coming to the MVMA office in recent weeks relate to mandatory CE. Right be- nar or virtual session that allows for real-time interaction it will count towards “live” and “in-person”. Up to 15 CE hours
hind that are questions about required training for renewal of Michigan controlled substance licenses. Here is a summary of what you can be earned for activities such as presenting, publishing, and teaching. You cannot earn credit for a session or activity
need to know for 2021. that is identical or substantially identical to something you already earned credit for at any other time in the three-year
renewal period. If you are taking a CE class or performing an activity, and want to count it for CE credit, be sure it is spon-
CHECK THE DATE YOUR LICENSE(S) EXPIRE. sored by an approved organization, association, or institution. All these details are in rules on the site mentioned above.
If your veterinarian license and controlled substance license expire on Dec.
31, 2020, the year 2021 will be your first year for taking and tracking man- The LARA Michigan Board of Pharmacy required opioids and controlled substance awareness training is a one-time
datory CE. You need to complete CE and opioid training by the time you training. It takes about three hours to cover all the required material so be ready for a longer session. You may take the
renew your license(s) three years later. If your veterinarian license, along training in different segments at different times. If you do this, though, be sure to have good documentation about topics
with your Michigan controlled substance license expires on Dec. 31, 2021, covered at each session.
you need to have taken the LARA Michigan Board of Pharmacy required
opioids and controlled substance awareness training when you renew your DOCUMENT AND TRACK YOUR CE
controlled substance license (along with your veterinarian license) on Dec. Be sure you get documentation of your CE from the sponsoring organization and be sure you keep it in a safe place. If you
31, 2021. Take CE in 2021 but it will not count for what will be needed the are selected for an audit when you renew your license(s), you will need to submit proof of your CE.
next time you renew your license. If your veterinarian license expires on
Dec. 31, 2022, the year 2021 will be your second year for taking and track-
For updates on MVMA sponsored CE and Frequently
ing mandatory CE. Also, you need to have completed the LARA Michigan
Asked Questions about CE, visit the MVMA website.
Board of Pharmacy required opioids and controlled substance awareness
training when you renew your controlled substance license (along
with your veterinarian license) on Dec. 31, 2022.
For those of you whose veterinarian license does
not expire exactly on Dec. 31, count back three
years from your expiration date in 2023 or later
and that will be when you can start tracking class-
es and activities for mandatory CE. The required CE
MVMA Mandatory CE Poster Guide
must be taken within three years of when you ap-
Available for download at michvma.org/mandatory-ce
ply for your veterinarian license renewal starting on
Dec. 31, 2022, and for every renewal after that. The
LARA Michigan Board of Pharmacy required opi-
oids and controlled substance awareness training
is a one-time training. Everyone renewing a con-
trolled substance license on or after Dec. 31, 2021,
must have completed the training.
1
https://www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/Clarification_for_ Nancy Frank, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, is MVMA’s Staff Veterinarian, and can be reached at frank@michvma.org or 517.347.4710.
Licensees_708003_7.pdf Dr. Nancy Frank is a current member of the Board of Veterinary Medicine. Her viewpoints do not necessarily represent the viewpoints of the Board.
16 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 17
4. AVOID PAPERWORK PROBLEMS
We get it. Paperwork and filling out forms are probably not your favorite things to do. And the clinic is busy and every minute
counts. But incomplete and incorrect submission forms can slow down or hold up testing and we know you and your client
10 TIPS TO GET THE MOST FROM are waiting for those results. Before forms get packaged with the samples, please take another look to make sure no important
details are left out. Common mistakes include no (or ambiguous) test requested on submission form, no form included with the
submission, demographics not fully filled out (e.g. draw dates and times, patient age, breed, etc.). Did you know that you can
EVERY LABORATORY SUBMISSION request submittal forms pre-printed with your account information free of charge? It’s a small thing, but it can save some time.
By Dr. James Averill, DVM, PhD 3. SHIP SAMPLES USING THE RIGHT PACKAGING AND BEST DELIVERY METHOD
Improper packaging or shipping can jeopardize submission quality. Tissue samples sometimes arrive severely autolyzed be-
Starting a new year, many of us want to put our best foot forward and leave the mistakes of the past behind us. cause the icepack in the box is insufficient (or there isn’t an icepack at all!) and/or the samples are shipped in a non-insulated
We resolve to be better, do things better. While 2020 has been a trying year in so many respects, we have found package. Any samples that are sent with an icepack should be sent overnight. Don’t forget to look at the shipping requirements
ways to keep doing our work. In the spirit of helping you to make improvements in your veterinary practice in the for the test requested in the online test catalog. Does it need to be frozen prior to shipping? Does it need an icepack and an in-
new year, the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory would like to share our top 10 tips for sulated box? Does it need to get to the lab within a certain amount of time after being collected? If you have trouble finding the
making every sample submission count. information on the website, you can always call us, and we are happy to help. Also check the MSU VDL website for important
alerts about shipping delays or service interruptions and for information about shipping solutions to make sending samples as
economical and easy as possible. Clients can call the Laboratory at 517.353.1683 to order mailers or overnight delivery labels.
10. SATURDAY DELIVERY IS NOT INCLUDED IN STANDARD OVERNIGHT POSTAGE
Please note that Saturday delivery is NOT included in standard overnight postage. Packages shipped overnight
2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SAMPLE CONTAINERS
on Friday will not be delivered to the Lab until the following Monday. Special “Saturday Delivery” postage is
Did you know that gloves and whirlpack bags aren’t an appropriate leakproof container for feces? Using the right container for
required. Call the Laboratory to order a Saturday label if needed.
the sample means that samples don’t leak out into the box where they can contaminate other samples, submittal forms, or even
worse contaminate the outside of the package. There may also be specific container requirements for the samples you plan to
9. HAVE A QUESTION, CALL THE LABORATORY
send. For example, ear notches for bovine viral diarrhea virus testing must be submitted individually. And samples for culture
The MSU VDL is just a phone call away at 517.353.1683. Also feel free to check out our website (animalhealth.msu.
need to be transported in a way to keep the potential pathogens viable. Those samples need to stay moist—do not submit tubes
edu). Our test catalog allows you to review detailed test information, including sample type and volume, turn-
containing just dry swabs or small tissue punches for culture. Use a bacterial transport swab containing amies media or a sterile
around time, collection protocol, and other details. Simply click on the test to obtain this additional information.
tube containing 500ml of sterile saline (NOT formalin).
8. DON’T LOSE THE BIOPSY SAMPLE IN A SEA OF FORMALIN
1. MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE!
If you are sending very small samples like GI biopsies, submitting those in tissue cassettes is very helpful. Tiny
One part of the submission form is so important that it deserves its own tip—HISTORY. More information about the patient
samples can get “lost” in the jar. Looking for tissue cassettes? Let us know.
gives diagnosticians a clearer clinical picture. This can help us provide a more accurate diagnostic interpretation of results.
Complete sample information and history (e.g. recent/current medications, treatments, vaccines, sample site) are important
7. CLEARLY LABEL ALL SAMPLES
for all submissions but are especially important when written interpretations accompany the results (biopsies, cytologies, and
The Laboratory sometimes receives samples that include multiple tissues in different containers, and nothing is la-
endocrinology testing for example) to maximize the diagnostic interpretation. Let us know what you are looking for. We will
beled. It’s important to clearly label each container with patient identification and specimen type so that each spec-
often call if the history/description doesn’t seem to match the tests requested.
imen is processed appropriately. Labeling is also important if there are many different animals in one submission!
THE BOTTOM LINE
6. COLLECT THE CORRECT SAMPLE TYPE & AMOUNT The MSU VDL is here to make your work easier, not
The MSU VDL sometimes receives the wrong specimen(s) for the test(s) requested. Don’t forget to spin down more complicated! Search the website (animalhealth.
blood samples and separate the serum or plasma prior to shipping samples for endocrine testing. And did you msu.edu) and/or test catalog for the information
know that royal blue top tubes are required for trace nutrient testing? Submission of the wrong type of specimen you’re looking for but if you’re ever unsure about
or an insufficient amount often makes it impossible for the Laboratory to provide the requested testing and assure what to submit, how to submit it, what to ask for,
accurate, timely results. When in doubt, check the test catalog or call the Laboratory. We hate asking clients to or how much it’s going to cost so you can bill your
recollect! clients correctly, please call us at 517.353.1683.
5. ENSURE OPTIMUM SAMPLE QUALITY Get information on shipping solutions and how
Sample quality matters. Poor quality samples may impact the Laboratory’s ability to perform the requested testing 1 to package samples for delivery to the Laboratory.
and/or may affect test results. The MSU VDL sometimes receives hemolyzed serum or plasma samples due to
Visit the test catalog to access important infor-
improper handling. Avoid hemolysis by centrifuging and separating serum or plasma prior to shipping, and don’t
2 mation such as sample type, amount, collection,
forget to store samples appropriately. Again, please call the Laboratory or refer to the test catalog for information
protocol, shipping information, and other details 2
about collecting and handling samples.
to ensure that the correct sample is collected and
shipped appropriately.
Dr. James Averill, DVM, PhD, is MSU VDL’s Interim Director, and can be reached at averillj@msu.edu or calling 517.353.1683.
18 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 19RADIOLOGY IMAGING SOLUTIONS, INC TO P 5 R E C O M M E N D AT I O N S
TO KEEP EVERYONE SAFE WHEN ALLOWING CLIENTS BACK IN THE OFFICE
How much added revenue are you missing out on By Samuel Florio
by NOT having X-Ray? As the winter months approach Michigan, the safety guidelines pro-
vided by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
The current COVID-19 related requirements for gatherings, face
coverings, health management, and business operations are in the
(MDHHS) and Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Admin- MDHHS Order of Nov. 18, 2020 and the MIOSHA Emergency Rules
20-30 per $1,000 - $2,000 istration (MIOSHA) should be fully reviewed and implemented to
ensure a safe and healthy holiday season for your patients, clients,
of Oct. 14, 2020. The MDHHS Order applies especially to gatherings,
face coverings, and health management related to gatherings. The
=
revenue
1-2 month $50 missed
and staff. With the winter weather making curbside service poten-
tially less appealing, consider what needs to be done at your practice
MIOSHA Emergency Rules are workplace safety rules and are pre-
scriptive for employers. The rules apply to all employers covered by
X-rays per
X
based on the guidelines provided to safely allow clients back in your MIOSHA. These rules are extensive, but generally similar to various
per month clinic or hospital when are ready. Michigan Executive Orders that were previously in place.
per day exam Ask us HERE ARE HIGHLIGHTS AND THE TOP 5 RECOMMENDATIONS TO KEEP EVERYONE SAFE WHEN
about our
ALLOWING CLIENTS BACK IN YOUR VETERINARY CLINIC OR VETERINARY HOSPITAL.
Trade-in
www.radiologyimagingsolutions.com Trade-up Support and Focus on staff health. The last thing you want is an outbreak of COVID-19 in
program! or related to your clinic. Owners and employees should be clear about procedures for daily
SUPPORT AND
FOCUS ON screening, reporting illness and exposures, wearing a face covering, and maintaining six feet
Your Partner in Imaging Since 1987 • Call 1 (800) 747-1777 for details • We are DR! STAFF HEALTH of separation. Everyone should know what to do in the event of exposure or illness. Every-
Email: sales@radiologyimagingsolutions.com • Mention Code 0143 one should practice good biosecurity and support others in doing the same.
WAITING ROOM Do not allow anyone in your waiting room until you are set up and have staff trained to meet
X AND CURBSIDE all the requirements including screening, distancing, and face coverings. Continuing options
SERVICE for curbside service and waiting in cars is recommended.
Promote and enforce requirements for face coverings – staff, clients, visitors, sales reps, con-
PROMOTE AND
tractors, and others. With few exceptions, the MDHHS Order requires businesses to man-
ENFORCE FACE date face coverings for all individuals (including employees). Both the MDHHS Order and
COVERINGS the MIOSHA rules require face coverings when employees are in the same space such as an
in-person meeting, conference room or hallway, even with six feet separation.
Have an updated preparedness and response plan and someone monitoring compliance.
MVC DATE CHANGE
PREPAREDNESS Posting signs, setting up screening for clients, preparing your waiting room, plus everything
AND RESPONSE
PLAN already needed for staff, is a substantial amount of work. This is all required by MIOSHA.
MIOSHA also requires someone to monitor performance and compliance with the plan.
Check your local health department website for more information. Your local health depart-
ment is key in taking reports of suspect and confirmed COVID-19 cases. They also follow up
LOCAL HEALTH on cases and determine return to work parameters. Your local health department may have
DEPARTMENT
additional requirements besides the MDHHS Order and the MIOSHA Emergency Rules.
RESOURCES
Some health departments, such as Kent County, have additional support programs and ed-
In an effort to keep our attendees, speakers and sponsors safe, MVMA and MSU CVM have made the decision to
ucational materials.
postpone MVC 2021, originally scheduled for late January, to Dec. 2-5, 2021. Please save these dates on your calendar.
For more information and resources on ways to keep your practice safe, please visit the MVMA at www.michvma.org/Coronavirus.
Samuel Florio is MVMA’s Director of Communications and Digital Strategy and can be reached at florio@michvma.org or 517.347.4710.
20 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 21An animal’s eventual destination will tion, testing, and more. If a CVI is inaccu- In order to better support clients and avoid
determine whether a CVI is processed rate, incomplete, or otherwise improperly unnecessary complications, be sure that
through the United States Department of filled out, a letter of education is sent to the a CVI is legible, properly addressed (the
Agriculture (USDA) or the Michigan De- issuing veterinarian, which provides guid- home address of an animal should not
partment of Agriculture and Rural Devel- ance on how to more effectively complete a be a PO Box), complete, and submitted
IF 2021 BECOMES opment (MDARD). All international ani- health certificate in the future. on time—the certificate should be sent to
mal movements are handled by the USDA. MDARD within seven days from the date
A YEAR OF TRAVEL,
More information about international However, if a CVI is in need of consider- it was issued.
WILL YOUR CLIENTS CVIs can be found on the USDA’s web- able improvements (such as the inclusion
site (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ of an animal’s official identification or a Also, each state has its own set of require-
(AND THEIR PETS) pet-travel) or by calling 517.337.4700. more complete disease testing/vaccina- ments. For instance, states can vary on
tion history), a number of actions could whether a prior entry form is needed, if a
BE READY? In contrast, interstate CVIs are assessed occur such as quarantining the animal at certain diagnostic test is required, or if they
by MDARD’s Animal Industry Division. its destination or sending the animal back will accept the APHIS 7001 form. There-
These CVIs are individually reviewed to to its origin location. Also, the USDA may fore, it is vital to contact the destination
By Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM
ensure each animal moving into or out of investigate to determine if the issuing vet- state for their requirements before issuing
the state is meeting federal and state reg- erinarian has violated his/her accreditation a CVI.
After spending the better part of 2020 indoors, travel agencies and booking platforms are predicting ulations for proper identification, vaccina- agreement.
that 2021 will be “a year of travel” as hopeful vacationers schedule make-up trips and new excur-
sions. When more people travel, it is likely that more pets will be traveling with them, leading to an
AN INTERSTATE CVI CAN BE SUBMITTED TO MDARD IN VARIOUS WAYS:
increased demand for Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVIs).
MAIL: PO Box 30017, Lansing, MI 48909 | EMAIL: CVI@Michigan.gov | FAX: 517-241-1560
Whether an animal is traveling by air, ground, or other form of transportation, they should always
have a CVI when they cross international boundaries or state lines. This documentation is essential to When submitting, please avoid duplication by choosing just one method of submission. For example, if a CVI is submitted through email,
ensure that animals are meeting important health requirements and to help with disease traceability. there is no need to mail in an additional copy.
While many believe that owners are fully responsible for guaranteeing that their animal is set for
travel, that burden should not fall solely on their shoulders. An accredited veterinarian must serve as Electronic options are also available for interstate CVIs. These services offer electronic creation, submission, and management of these
both a guide and a resource for clients as they navigate the process of obtaining a CVI. documents, making them easier to process. If there are questions related to electronic CVIs or the import/export of animals, please contact
Animal Import/Export Coordinator Colleen Phillipich, LVT, at PhillipichC@Michigan.gov or 517.284.5674.
Preventative care and wellness visits are a great time to educate clients on the importance of CVIs
and to establish that animals are healthy prior to travel or movement. Working with clients early can While vacationing in 2021 will certainly look different, the goal of traveling safely and confidently with pets remains the same. In addition
improve/raise awareness of the necessity of CVIs and their requirements, which can lead to better to the guidance provided on the back of the CVI form itself, MDARD has created a tip sheet and other resources, which can be found at
planning, increased compliance, and less stress on veterinarians themselves. www.michigan.gov/dvmresources, to help ensure these certificates are successfully completed.
Also, in these educational conversations, it is important to ask clients how they intend to travel,
because airlines can have additional requirements. For example, some airlines might not transport
brachycephalic pets, and others might not accept digital signatures on
electronic certificates. Asking this key question will help ensure clients
are fully prepared to begin their trip.
Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM is the State Veterinarian and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Animal
Industry Division Director and can be reached at WinelandN@Michigan.gov or 517.284.5689.
22 WINTER 2020 MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN MVMA | THE MICHIGAN VETERINARIAN WINTER 2020 23You can also read
