Mentoring Available for New ACVIM Diplomates
The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and MentorVet unveiled a mentorship program called MentorVet Lead for New Diplomates. Funded by Chewy Health, the program is designed for ACVIM diplomates who have become board-certified in the past five years. According to ACVIM, “For six months, mentees will complete robust online learning modules focused on professional skills such as stress management, leadership, mentorship, team building and budgeting.”
AAFP Weighs in on Cat Breeding and Lifestyles
The American Association of Feline Practitioners released a position statement on responsible breeding and a second on indoor/outdoor feline lifestyles. The breeding document states, “Veterinarians should implement preventive genetic and health testing to prevent the propagation of inherited disorders.” Additional details are at bit.ly/4atDN4Z.
Arizona Shelter Animals Receive First-Class Treatment
The Arizona Humane Society opened the Rob and Melani Walton Papago Park Campus in Phoenix. The 5-acre, $51 million facility includes the Nina Mason Pulliam pet adoption center, 13 play yards and the Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital. Learn more at bit.ly/4asIyf5.
Mars Appoints Global Chief Financial Officer
Mars Veterinary Health hired Ted Stedem as its global chief financial officer. “With more than 25 years of financial and operational leadership experience, Ted will oversee service and finance processes, operations and ways of working across Mars Veterinary Health’s 3,000 veterinary clinics worldwide,” the company reported.
CityVet Sets Its Sights on Arizona
Dallas-based CityVet plans to open its first Arizona veterinary hospital in Chandler, a Phoenix suburb, by fall 2024.
JAVMA Studies Urge Client Communication on Obesity
Two new studies published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that owners of overweight cats and dogs are most likely to help them lose weight when veterinarians caution about the potential impact of obesity on animals’ life expectancy. “Given the implications for pet health and well-being, client communication regarding obesity is a professional responsibility for veterinary professionals,” the authors of the canine study said. The studies are posted at bit.ly/3TAOCeK and bit.ly/3x29iVl.
Virginia-Maryland to Study Early MMVD Treatment
Researchers at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine will explore whether primary care veterinarians using only a stethoscope and chest X-rays can effectively identify dogs that would benefit from medical treatment for myxomatous mitral valve disease before symptoms occur. The project is funded by a $141,000 grant from the Stanton Foundation.
Modern Animal Collaborates With Dog Owners Club
The veterinary hospital chain Modern Animal partnered with a Los Angeles canine social club called DOG PPL. “Leveraging their respective membership offerings, both will provide exclusive events and perks for each other’s communities,” Modern Animal stated. “Additionally, the partnership will result in co-branded content, harnessing Modern Animal’s medical expertise to educate audiences on preventive care, dog park safety and the profound impact of play on a dog’s quality of life through collaborative social media posts.”