During this interview with dvm360, Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT, shared more on how therapeutic errors can happen in veterinary clinics, and  why talking about it is so important.

Video interview with Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT.

 at the 2026 Veterinary Meeting & Expo in Orlando, Florida, Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT, discussed therapeutic errors in the clinic that can be toxic to pets. Through the interview, she shares more on what types of errors she sees at Pet Poison Helpline, the role humans can play in these cases, and why it is important to talk about these medical errors instead of treating them as failures. 

Below is a transcript, edited lightly for clarity

I'm [Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT]. I'm the director of veterinary medicine and senior veterinary toxicologist for Pet Poison Helpline.

When we talk about therapeutic errors in veterinary practice, what are the most common types you see reported, and why do they happen even in a well-run hospital?

 There are numerous different ones. They may have some mislabeled medication. They may have misread the bottle. They may have misspoken or miswritten the directions. But the most common one for us is most likely calculation errors. The decimal point might have been put in the wrong place, or maybe they used pounds instead of kilograms in their calculation.

How do human factors like fatigue, multitasking, and communication breakdowns contribute to therapeutic errors?

Human factors really play a significant role. Veterinary practices are busy. They're multitasking, as you said. They have a lot on their minds, and even the most cautious of humans can make a mistake every once in a while.

 Why is it important to normalize conversations about medical errors rather than treating them as individual failures?

It's extremely important to create a safe space because we want our staff to be able to admit to and to show that a mistake has been made so it can be corrected and…rectified. I think back when I was in practice and fairly newly out in practice, [and] we had a veterinary assistant who had been with us for several years. They weren't new to the profession, and instead of giving a unit of insulin to the small dog, she gave 1 mL of insulin. Fortunately, she recognized it right away. She told us right away, so we were able to treat this pet before they had any negative effects from it.

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Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT, discusses common clinical errors in veterinary medicine and emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment for staff.

Creating a safe culture around veterinary medication errors

Brennen McKenzie, MA, MSc, VMD, emphasizes understanding the biology of aging, delivering high-quality medical care, and maintaining effective client communication as key factors in helping dogs live longer, healthier lives.

Understanding aging biology to improve canine healthspan

Brennen McKenzie, MA, MSc, VMD, director of veterinary medicine at Loyal, shares 3 key takeaways from his 2025 New York Vet session on canine aging. As the field of aging biology expands, Brennen also encourages veterinarians to stay informed on emerging opportunities and tools coming to the space.

The following is a transcript of the video, lightly edited for clarity and cohesion:

Hi, I'm Brennen McKenzie. I'm a small-animal veterinarian, and I am currently both…in private practice, where I've been for almost 25 years now, and the director of veterinary medicine for Loyal, which is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, [California]. Our mission is [to develop] medications to try to extend the healthy lifespan of dogs.

The most important things are, No. 1, that aging is not a mystery. It's complicated, but it's comprehensible, and we can understand the biology of aging to a point where we can then do something about it. So aging is a modifiable risk factor for disease, and we can modify it and get a better outcome and [a] healthier, longer life for our patients right now.

The second point would be: The way to do that is simple, straightforward, [and] good-quality medicine. Keep your patients at a healthy body weight and engage in all the normal, good-quality preventive care that you already do.

Then the third point is...you have to communicate with your clients. They want the best for their pet, [just] as you want the best for your patients. You just have to make sure that you guys are talking and keeping channels open and working together as a team to accomplish that.

I think this is a moment in which aging biology is really taking off as a subject that people understand. It gives us a whole new set of opportunities and tools, and those are coming soon. I just encourage vets to keep their eye on this space.

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Understanding aging biology to improve canine health span

Although the discovery of antimicrobial products and their use in fighting disease and infection was a massive advancement in medicine, their effectiveness can be difficult to maintain if they are not used appropriately and responsibly. Great power comes with great responsibility, so how do you treat a patient without jumping straight to prescribing an antibiotic?

During his lecture, “Fighting the Good Fight: A Complete Approach to Antimicrobial Therapy in Dermatology,” Darin Dell, DVM, DACVD, shared more on antimicrobial therapy in dermatology. Throughout the lecture, Dell broke down how veterinarians can manage canine pyoderma more effectively by treating underlying causes, prioritizing topical therapy, and using antibiotics only when truly indicated.

“Pyoderma is never primary,” Dell explained to attendees. “So, your client's going to be concerned, usually, about the hair loss. Maybe it's the odor. Maybe it's the crust that's all over their wood floor. That's great, but it's never primary.

“You can treat the pyoderma, and you should, but you need to be thinking: What's that primary cause? We're going to use our physical exam findings and cytology to diagnose and monitor our pyoderma, and that's how we're going to decide [whether] I’m done treating or not,” he continued.

Dell went on to explain that there are multiple types of pyoderma. The first is surface pyoderma. Cytology can be extremely helpful for veterinarians facing this level because it will show bacteria and keratinocytes, but no eosinophils, neutrophils, or macrophages. Dell explained that the best way to think about this type of pyoderma is as an overgrowth of bacteria on the skin’s surface.

Next is superficial pyoderma, which clinicians see most often. Signs include folliculocentric pustules and spreading crusts; hair often becomes trapped in the crust and falls out. Clients often do not notice their pet has superficial pyoderma until the hair starts to fall out.

Last is deep pyoderma, which Dell shared is one of his least favorite conditions to treat. With this type, there is a severe underlying issue. Patients can present with deep folliculitis, furunculosis, cellulitis, chin pyoderma, pyogranulomas, and callus pyoderma.

Because pyoderma is secondary, there are multiple primary reasons it could be occurring. One of the most common, if not the most common, according to Dell, is allergy, because it represents a genetically programmed barrier defect. Besides allergies, other common causes include the following:

Understanding the primary cause is crucial because it dictates how veterinary teams treat and prevent recurrence. Teams should use both physical exam findings and cytology to diagnose and monitor the condition. If a practitioner is struggling to resolve pyoderma, it is usually because the primary cause has not been addressed.

When treating pyoderma, the first line of topical therapy is often chlorhexidine. Dell explained that its residual activity can last up to 7 days post application, it has faster bacterial activity than other options, and it is bactericidal at lower concentrations. Chlorhexidine is available in 2%, 3%, and 4% concentrations, all of which are effective against bacteria. However, which one should veterinary teams choose?

“Four percent will definitely kill bacteria faster and has some antifungal properties, but it's also more likely to cause skin irritation, and it's never going to work as well as a miconazole antifungal,” Dell said. “I actually like the lower percentage combined with miconazole because there's a synergy against 

 bacteria. I’d much rather use a lower-percentage chlorhexidine to get less skin irritation, combined with miconazole for that extra synergy.”

Topical therapies, such as shampoos, wipes, sprays, and mousses, are all options to explore. Shampoo is ideal because it removes pollen, inflammatory mediators, and microbes. When shampooing, contact time is vital; 10 to 15 minutes is ideal. Dell explained that the goal is not just to wash the hair but also to treat the skin. He recommends telling clients to listen to 2 or 3 songs to measure time rather than counting minutes, especially if they struggle to keep the pet in the tub.

If first-line topical options are insufficient, systemic antibiotics are the next step. However, clinicians must consider drug properties and patient factors. Ask whether the pet has a sensitive stomach, as adverse events are typically gastrointestinal. Veterinary teams should also ask whether the patient (and owner) prefers tablets, liquids, or capsules, as formulation preference significantly influences adherence.

It is also important to consider client lifestyle factors. Can the client physically give the pill or injection? Do they have a space to bathe the pet? Will they actually perform the treatment? An older couple may struggle to lift a dog into a bath, and a single parent with 3 kids may find a complex regimen impossible.

“Ask these questions: Is this possible? Can you get it done reliably? Let's talk about that now, before we prescribe something that's not going to work. If the medication you send home doesn't work, they're going to blame you, not themselves. It happens to specialists, too,” Dell said.

A new treatment option Dell discussed was a generic cefovecin sodium product (Solovecin; Dechra). Approved by the FDA in June 2025, Solovecin is a generic long-acting injectable antibiotic used to treat canine and feline skin infections. Dell shared a case involving "Baby Girl," a 12-year-old spayed female Chihuahua mix. After months of unresolved dermatitis, she was referred to Dell.

The owner explained she could not bathe the dog due to a bad back and a lack of a suitable sink. She had tried wipes, but Baby Girl fought her. Dell treated her with Solovecin and planned a follow-up in 2 weeks. He also started the dog on gabapentin in the evenings to help the owner wipe the dog's feet without conflict.

“A month later, the dog is doing well. [She] came back at the 2-week mark looking better, and we gave a second Solovecin injection. Baby Girl began to feel better within days because she received the medication without a fight,” Dell said. “Now they have a great evening routine. They don’t even need the gabapentin anymore because they practiced while the dog wasn't in pain. It improved their bond, as well.”

Baby Girl now receives ilunocitinib (Zenrelia) once a day for her underlying allergies and is doing great. In this case, the issue wasn't a resistant infection; it was patient and client factors.

Pyoderma is always a secondary condition. To provide lasting relief, veterinary teams must identify the root cause. This approach allows teams to avoid jumping straight to systemic antibiotics and to use a multimodal strategy to help fight antimicrobial resistance.

Dell D. Fighting the good fight: a complete approach to antimicrobial therapy in dermatology. Presented at: 2026 Veterinary Meeting & Expo; January 17-21, 2026; Orlando, FL. 

Crossley KC. A new cefovecin sodium injectable therapy is now available in the US. 

. November 4, 2025. Accessed January 20, 2026. https://www.dvm360.com/view/a-new-cefovecin-sodium-injectable-therapy-is-now-available-in-the-us

Learn effective strategies for managing canine pyoderma, emphasizing root cause identification and responsible antimicrobial use in dermatology.

Overcoming patient and client barriers in dermatology

In a dvm360 interview, Erin Jones, PhD, discusses how individuals can get more involved with bee medicine as well as beekeeping.

Gaining more experience with honey bees

Erin Jones, PhD, an entomologist and educator with West Texas A&M University in Canyon, presented a series of continuing education sessions on honeybee medicine at the 2026 Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando, Florida. In a 

 interview at VMX, Jones was joined by Allie Donaldson, DVM, a past president of the Honey Bee Veterinary Consortium, to discuss ways individuals can get involved in bee medicine and beekeeping.

The following is a transcript of the video:

 [There are] 3 really great pathways for veterinarians to get involved with bees. [First], contact [your] local or state extension office. A lot of states have state apicultures, and they're really great resources for them. They can also contact their local extension agent, who may know some resources that are available.

I also recommend that they join a bee club. That's the best way to meet beekeepers: to join a club where they are. It's also a great way to find a mentor. When we get into beekeeping, knowing someone who can come and do hands-on work with us is one of the best ways for us to learn.

Then, last of all, just getting [your] own bees. We always recommend that you get 2 to 3 hives so that if something goes wrong with one hive [and] the other 2 are not behaving in the same way, you know when you have a problem. It's a really great idea to have more than 1 hive and just jump in there and get some experience. It’s the best way to learn.

And join the Honey Bee Veterinary Consortium, please.

For more industry news and coverage of VMX, visit 

In a dvm360 interview, Erin Jones, PhD, discusses how individuals can get more involved with bee medicine and beekeeping.

Gaining more experience with honeybees

Royal Canin is introducing a new diet for overweight cats who have diabetes at the 2026 Veterinary Meeting & Expo in Orlando, Florida. In addition to the new feline diet, the company has launched home care nutritional kits for pets who have received a diagnosis of certain conditions.

According to Royal Canin, their new feline diet for overweight patients with diabetes, Glycoadvanced, is formulated with an increased nutrient-to-calorie ratio and developed for safe caloric restriction in these pets.

The diet is available as a wet and dry food and supports vitality, healthy blood glucose levels and a healthy body weight, noted Royal Canin in a news release announcing the new product.1 These factors, says Royal Canin, can positively impact quality of life.

Glycoadvanced diet. (Image courtesy of Royal Canin)

“Weight reduction with a veterinary diet is a key part of management for overweight diabetic cats, helping to improve blood sugar levels and their general health and wellbeing,” wrote Royal Canin.

In addition to their Glycoadvanced feline diet, the pet nutrition company said they will be launching Royal Canin Veterinary Fresh Nutrition later in 2026. The line will feature gently cooked veterinary diets developed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists and will include therapeutic formulations for gastrointestinal and dermatologic conditions

The company also launched home care kits that provide nutritional solutions to support pets that have received a diagnosis related to dermatology, gastrointestinal, and urinary conditions. The kits provide a sampling of diets for those conditions.

According to Royal Canin, the kits are aimed at helping make sure owners follow diet recommendations, as well as bridge the transition between diagnosis and subscription services.

 The company said these kits can also be used as an educational tool that help pet owners better understand the benefits of nutrition compliance.

"VMX sets the tone for the year as we continue to support and empower veterinary professionals through the impact of therapeutic nutrition," Todd East, DVM, director of veterinary affairs, Royal Canin North America, said in the company release.

"From our dietary offerings to our ongoing support of learning and development for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, 2026 will continue to be a year of innovation for Royal Canin and commitment to the veterinary industry."

Royal Canin previews upcoming therapeutic innovations at VMX 2026. News release. Royal Canin. January 15, 2026. Accessed January 19, 2026. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/royal-canin-previews-upcoming-therapeutic-innovations-at-vmx-2026-302660357.html

Rand J, Gottlieb SA. Feline diabetes mellitus. In: Ettinger SJ, Feldman EC, Côté E, eds. Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2017:1781-1795.

Jørgensen FK, Mohanty A, Kieler IN, et al. Twelve-week controlled caloric restriction with a purpose-formulated diabetic weight loss diet increases achievement of diabetic remission in overweight diabetic cats: an international multicenter prospective, randomized clinical trial. Abstract presented at: 35th ECVIM-CA Congress; September 18-20, 2025; Maastricht, Netherlands.

Royal Canin unveils a new diet for cats with diabetes and home care kits at VMX 2026.

Royal Canin announces new feline diabetes diet for overweight cats

dvm360:Starting with your name, can you tell me a little bit about your background?

I’m a practicing diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, a board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist, and a certified veterinary journalist based in Omaha, Nebraska. I’m a proud graduate of Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine [in Ithaca, New York], and have a passion for education and sharing my experiences with colleagues. Clinically, I love hematology, endocrinology, sepsis, and fluid therapy.

Christopher G. Byers, DVM, DACVECC, DACVIM

dvm360:Why is it critical to differentiate between vomiting, regurgitation, and passive expulsion before initiating antiemetic therapy?

It’s essential to distinguish these processes because they point to very different underlying problems, and only one of them (true vomiting) actually benefits from antiemetic therapy. Vomiting is an active, centrally mediated process, so antiemetics can be both therapeutic and diagnostic. Regurgitation, on the other hand, is a passive event tied to esophageal dysfunction or obstruction, and antiemetics won’t help and may actually delay appropriate diagnostics. Passive expulsion can indicate severe systemic illness or neuromuscular weakness and likewise doesn’t respond to antiemetics. Making the distinction up front keeps clinical reasoning on track and prevents us from masking signs we really need to see.

dvm360:Why might a dog that is vomiting due to sepsis not respond as effectively to metoclopramide as a dog vomiting due to dietary indiscretion?

Metoclopramide primarily works as a dopamine (D2) antagonist and as a mild prokinetic, so it’s most effective when the emetic trigger is within that dopaminergic pathway or related to delayed gastric emptying. In sepsis, the emetic drive is often multifactorial: Cytokine release, altered blood-brain barrier permeability, endotoxin effects, and sometimes concurrent organ dysfunction all play a role. Those pathways bypass the classic D2-mediated emetic mechanisms, making metoclopramide a relatively weak tool in that scenario. In contrast, vomiting from simple dietary indiscretion is far more likely to respond because the emetic stimulus is less complex and more aligned with the mechanisms metoclopramide actually targets.

dvm360:There are different routes of administration for maropitant. In an emergency setting with a patient with severe pain or a very critical condition, which route do you choose and why?

In most emergency situations with painful or unstable patients, I reach for the IV [intravenous] route. It’s rapid, reliable, and avoids the discomfort often associated with the subcutaneous injection. The onset is quick, exactly what you want in a crashing or severely nauseated patient, and it allows us to maintain patient comfort without adding an

unnecessary pain point. If IV access truly isn’t an option, then the subcutaneous route is a reasonable fallback, but in a real emergency, IV is almost always the best fit.

dvm360:Maropitant injection is known to cause pain upon administration. Based on evidence or established practice, what are 2 practical steps a veterinary professional can take to minimize this discomfort for the patient?

Two reliably effective and evidence-based ways to reduce maropitant’s injection sting are:

Administer the drug cold, straight from the refrigerator (around 4 °C). Cooling the solution reduces nociceptor activation and has consistently been shown to lessen the characteristic maropitant burn. It’s simple, inexpensive, and makes a noticeable difference in patient comfort.

Inject slowly and intentionally. A slower injection rate minimizes tissue stretch and mechanical irritation, which helps keep patients far more comfortable, especially those who are already painful or systemically fragile.

If appropriate, clinicians can also rotate injection sites and, when available, choose the benzyl alcohol–containing formulation, which is associated with reduced pain during injection.

Importantly, even though some clinicians try mixing maropitant with subcutaneous fluids to dilute the sting, we avoid doing so. The manufacturer advises against it due to pH incompatibilities and lack of stability data, and pharmacokinetic studies show that coadministration with SC [sodium chloride] crystalloids can significantly delay absorption and reduce systemic exposure, up to a 30% drop in bioavailability. In acute or perioperative cases where rapid, predictable antiemetic effect is critical, that loss of efficacy is clinically meaningful.

Learn more about Christopher G. Byers, DVM, DACVECC, DACVIM, and his lecture from earlier today.  