Welcome to spring—the season of renewal, hope, and regrowth. As I look at the spring issue of Today’s Veterinary Nurse, I see parallels between the season and this issue’s learnings. There are many skills that we can refresh throughout our careers, whether we are new graduates or seasoned technicians like myself. This issue offers a fresh look at wound bandaging techniques and a reminder of the importance of recognizing and educating clients about the zoonotic risks of external parasites. We also know springtime to be kitten season! What better time to revisit the importance of properly feeding neonatal kittens? Spring also reminds us how beautiful change can be. Whether learning about electrochemotherapy or large animal field service, we are opening ourselves to information that can change our everyday work experience.
Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse Leadership Scholarship Winners
Each year, the Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse Leadership Scholarship recognizes veterinary nurses/technicians who have made a positive impact. Congratulations to the 2024 winners! Learn more and apply at bit.ly/RippieTVN.
Anita Parkin, RVN, Dip AVN (Surgery & ECC), VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), CVPP
Joining Veterinary Specialist Services in 2001, Anita has specialized as a surgical veterinary nurse for the past 10 years. Her skills and experience gained over the last 20-plus years are now being passed on to veterinary nurses throughout Australia and internationally through lectures; workshops; and in-clinic, hands-on training. Anita is a member of the Academy of Veterinary Technician Anesthetists, International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management, International Veterinary Critical Care Society, and Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia. Anita’s special interests include critical care, challenging anesthetics, pain management, and surgical nursing.
Jennifer Serling, CVT, RVT, BVSc, VTES
While Jennifer’s specialty is in large animal nursing, she has experience in many areas of veterinary medicine. Jennifer was the program director for Pima Medical Institute’s veterinary technician program prior to joining the Appalachian State University veterinary technology program as assistant director. She has written 2 textbooks and contributed to others, serves on the board of directors for 3 animal welfare and rescue groups, and speaks nationally on large animal medicine and veterinary technology education. She is president for the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators and a founding member of the Academy of Veterinary Technician Specialists in Education.
Ann Wortinger, BIS, LVT, VTS (ECC, SAIM, Nutrition), Elite FFCP
With experience in general, emergency, and specialty practice, as well as education and management, Ann is active in her state, national, and specialty organizations and has served on the organizing committees for the Academy of Veterinary Nutrition Technicians and Academy of Internal Medicine for Veterinary Technicians. She is currently a content developer and faculty member at Appalachian State University’s veterinary technology program, as well as an active speaker and writer. Ann has mentored over 20 fellow veterinary technician specialists, published more than 50 articles, authored book chapters, and co-authored a textbook.