Personal/Professional Development

The worlds of veterinary medicine and dog shows may seem vastly different, but the heart of each is the same—a love of animals.

News accounts and personal stories about bullying are being reported in increasing numbers. While often considered a middle- or high-school problem, bullying in professional workplaces is a common occurrence too and chances are you’ve witnessed it in action.

When floods, fires, hurricanes, mudslides, and other natural disasters strike, chaos ensues. But within the chaos, there is a group of individuals who are organized, trained, and prepared to mobilize and bring order where there is complete turmoil, panic, and upheaval. Within the group of first responders, but often overlooked, are the veterinary response teams.

The Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) has gained quite a bit of momentum since being formed by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) in 2016. It’s no secret that many veterinary nurses feel they are underutilized, underpaid, burned out, and underappreciated. There is also great frustration by the lack of professional standardization and regulation.

First responders are vital in natural disasters, even for beloved pets and animals. Read about how Louisiana Tech University’s School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry Animal Disaster Program is raising awareness and preparedness around this important issue.

The 2019 International Conference on Animal Health Nutraceuticals is quickly approaching. Register now to learn about nutritional supplementation for companion animals and how emerging research in nutritional science will impact animal health and wellness in the years to come.

Many veterinary nurses and organizations across the globe seek to work collaboratively in standardizing credentialing and addressing the challenges facing veterinary nurses.

As veterinary nurses, we dedicate our lives to helping animals because we are animal welfare warriors. Together, all of us can create an environment to help these animals gain a better life—one they all deserve. Please consider volunteering at the ASPCA.

A small grassroots movement of veterinary staff personnel, including associate veterinarians, formed the National Veterinarian Professionals Union (NVPU) in 2018. The NVPU seeks to draw attention to the plight of overworked, underpaid veterinary staff.

A new grant will allow students from Colorado State University and the University of Alaska Fairbanks to assist with veterinary care in remote Southwest Alaska communities.