Content submitted by MentorVet and Synchrony

Mental health and wellness are critical issues in the veterinary profession, as practicing professionals attempt to balance everything from providing essential care to pets to building strong teams to having effective financial conversations with pet owners. Providing veterinary professionals with helpful, readily accessible resources and support can help them successfully navigate these challenges.

In recent years, tremendous progress has been made to uplift those in the profession as evidenced by Merck’s 2023 Veterinary Wellbeing Study

 which identifies significant improvement in access and use of mental health resources that are available to veterinary teams.

 However, burnout remains prevalent across the profession due to staffing shortages, work-life balance issues and financial stressors. Young professionals are particularly vulnerable to these negative experiences—and in the most need of support.

Financial management and communication regarding finances can feel stressful to early-career professionals as many of them receive little training in financial literacy during a busy veterinary curriculum. This lack of financial preparedness can negatively affect their mental wellbeing and satisfaction as they try to navigate the business side of practice and financial discussions with clients. This stress can compound when clients are unable to afford the recommended treatment options and can result in moral distress.

Added to this anxiety related to the complexities of practice management and holding financial discussions with pet owners around cost of care is the financial stress that stems from their personal student debt which is significant.

Debt management and long-term financial planning

Many first-year veterinarians hold a high amount of debt upon exiting their schooling. New graduate veterinarian debt averages $179,505.

 Creating a feasible repayment plan that works within a young professional’s personal expenses is key for supporting long-term financial success, while providing emotional peace of mind. By understanding the repayment process and setting clear financial goals, veterinary professionals can cultivate a sense of purpose with their finances, alleviating the overwhelming burden of debt.

Financial coaching and education can empower veterinary professionals to gain confidence and competence around financial literacy, communication long-term goal setting. Two mentorship and professional development programs from MentorVet—MentorVet Leap and MentorVet Tech—provide access to mentorship opportunities, professional development, mental health coaching, and financial preparedness training to help them successfully navigate this multi-layered, financial landscape.

Adopting a proactive approach to financial conversations can help veterinary teams—from veterinarians to veterinary technicians to front desk staff—avoid the stressful moment when emotions and economics meet in the exam room. Synchrony’s 

 found that a treatment costing $250 can cause stress for pet owners, amplifying tensions in the exam room at a time when decisions need to be made about care.

 And, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Language of Care study, pet owners value transparency regarding the cost of care and want to see their veterinary professionals express a desire to make treatments more affordable. This makes it critical for veterinary teams to have upfront and open conversations with clients about cost of care and payment solutions.

Sharing available solutions, like pet health insurance options or a health and wellness credit card, can empower pet owners to be financially prepared to pay for their animals’ lifelong health care needs as well as the humans in their families. This type of credit card can provide flexible financing options for all types of veterinary services, treatments and diagnostics.

Another area that can lead to financial sustainability and ongoing team well-being is identifying solutions, technology and financial practices that help streamline business workflows and payment processes, accelerate cash flow, build healthy accounts receivables and reduce back-office paperwork. Proactively managing accounts payable and receivable can help veterinary practices maintain financial stability and operational efficiency.

Despite the deficiency in current veterinary school curricula, we can make a difference as young professionals start this journey. We can continue to develop and deliver financial programs and resources that positively impact the mental wellbeing and personal and professional financial health of those early in their veterinary career, leading to a trajectory that is positive and purposeful. We have found that providing them with real-time guidance and relationships with experienced veterinary mentors does wonders in helping them navigate the complex financial issues and personal challenges they face.

On top of specific programs, the broader veterinary community can collectively encourage open communication and knowledge sharing to foster continuous improvement and adaptation that inform best practices. The advice and lessons learned by one practice could save another from making major financial errors or help them provide better care for pet owners.

Finally, new veterinary professionals should consider a long-term financial planner to manage both individual and practice cost from the start. According to Merck Animal Health, 57% of men and 45% of women in veterinary professions have a personal finance planner or advisor.

Prioritizing the mental health and financial well-being of those in our profession is essential to the sustainability of the veterinary profession and should remain at the forefront of our strategies and initiatives moving forward. Together, we can cultivate a culture of support and empowerment that helps ensure the future prosperity of the veterinary industry as well as the passionate professionals caring for pets each and every day.

To learn more about mentor and financial support for veterinary professionals, visit 

. If you want to speak with other veterinary professionals seeking support, consider joining Not One More Vet’s 

. If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988.

 is a senior vice president and general manager of veterinary and pet care at Synchrony.

Merck Animal Health’s fourth veterinary wellbeing study indicates progress in addressing mental health challenges among veterinary teams. News release. Merck Animal Health. January 15, 2024. Accessed June 12, 2024. 

https://www.merck-animal-health.com/blog/2024/01/15/4th-veterinary-wellbeing-study/

Chart of the month: good news on student debt. American Veterinary Medical Association. May 25, 2023. Accessed June 12, 2024.

https://www.avma.org/blog/chart-month-good-news-student-debt

Lifetime of care study. Synchrony. January 2022. Accessed June 12, 2024.

Communicating with clients: using the right language to improve care. American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed June 12, 2024.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/synchrony-study-unveils-staggering-findings-surrounding-lifetime-cost-of-pet-ownership

Improving wellbeing and mental health. Merck Animal Health and Brakke Consulting. 2024. Accessed June 12, 2024.

https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/offload-downloads/2023-vet-wellbeing-presentation

Articles

Understanding financial health and mental well-being in veterinary medicine

This past week, middle school students from underserved communities in New Haven, Connecticut, participated in the “Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine” event created by blendVET—the first certification program in the nation focused on training and educating veterinary professionals on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging topics. During the event, these students were engaged in immersive training activities and learned about the many facets of veterinary medicine.

This event is one of many pathway events organized by blendVET to give underrepresented students exposure to the veterinary profession and show them that they are represented in veterinary medicine. “blendVET is an idea and a concept I had to try to change the culture of veterinary medicine,” explained Niccole Bruno, DVM, CEO and founder of blendVET, in an 

. “Even working and living in New York City, I did not see the diversity in the profession that I wanted to pursue, and so I think that can cause barriers for students of color.”

This event, which took place at Highville Charter Middle School in New Haven, provided students with the opportunity to learn alongside a diverse group of veterinarians at different training stations including those focusing on surgery, emergency room, general practice, and zoo medicine. At these stations, students learned basic suture techniques and how to repair broken bones, perform CPR, and care for exotic animals. They were also able to observe physical examinations and nail trimming being performed and were given surgical gowns of their own.

At the end of the day, participants received a certificate confirming their completion of 6 hours of education in veterinary medicine and were provided with a roster of local veterinarians that offer shadowing opportunities.

Students at the “Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine” event practice surgical suturing. (Photo Courtesy of the North American Veterinary Community)

“I want [these students] to just know that even if someone tells them that they can’t do it…I want them to prove [that person] wrong. They can do it, they’re all capable. And many times, when kids doubt themselves it’s because they don’t have that sense of encouragement, and I want them to at least know that there’s a community here that will love them and support them if they have questions… all they have to do is contact us and we will get them support, mentorship, whatever we need to do to help them stay on this pathway,” emphasized Bruno in a video by the American Animal Hospital Association.

According to a 2023 survey, 68% of White, 66% of Hispanic, 34% of Black, and 37% of Asian adults in the United States own at least 1 pet.

 Yet, a 2023 survey by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that only 10% of veterinarians are racially diverse, with 1.3% consisting of Black veterinarians, and 5.9% and 7.9% comprising Asian and Hispanic or Latino veterinarians, respectively.

“We are the least diverse medical profession," said Bruno in the interview.

"As a practicing [veterinarian], so often I’ve worked in hospitals where I’m the only doctor of color, and sometimes the only person of color, and I do think that that pulls a disconnect that we have in our ability to work with our clients of diverse backgrounds and even encouraging people to join our profession.”

blendVET has worked with K-12 schools in underserved communities in Nashville, Orlando, Miami, St. Petersburg, and San Diego since 2022 to provide these communities with “Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine” pathway events. Their latest event was hosted in partnership with the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC).

Participants practice conducting physical exams. (Photo courtesy of the North American Veterinary Community)

"We're proud to have partnered with blendVET for this wonderful event that inspires and opens doors for young people to explore career opportunities in veterinary medicine, especially those underserved and not well-represented in today's veterinary industry. We look forward to continuing to offer opportunities for underrepresented youth to pursue veterinary careers," Gene O'Neill, CEO of NAVC, said in a news release.

"This event is extremely important to realizing more diversity in our field of veterinary medicine. The students had an immersive experience and envisioned themselves as veterinary professionals one day," explained Bruno in the release.

 "Giving back to the community has always been important to me… I enjoyed engaging with the students, and it's rewarding to be able to show them what this field entails and the opportunities available to them."

Further striving towards blendVET’s goal of inspiring the next generation of veterinarians in underserved communities, the organization hosted a parent session on June 11, 2024 to help them learn ways to offer guidance and support their student’s pathway into veterinary medicine.

New Haven middle school students scrubbed in as veterinarians for the day. News release. North American Veterinary Community. June 7, 2024. Accessed June 10, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-haven-middle-school-students-scrubbed-in-as-veterinarians-for-the-day-302167026.html

. February 17, 2023. Accessed June 11, 2024. 

https://www.dvm360.com/view/meet-niccole-bruno-dvm

blendVET’s DEIB focus inspires the next generation of veterinarians in underserved communities–American Animal Hospital Association. YouTube. February 16, 2024. Accessed June 11, 2024. 

https://youtu.be/Sg5wcLgQK30?si=_mtStAuEVBho28tO

Brown A. About half of U.S. pet owners say their pets are as much a part of their family as a human member. Pew Research Center. July 7, 2023. Accessed June 11, 2024. 

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/07/07/about-half-us-of-pet-owners-say-their-pets-are-as-much-a-part-of-their-family-as-a-human-member/#:~:text=Most%20Americans%20own%20pets%2C%20but,Black%20adults%20are%20pet%20owners

Labor Force Statistics From The Current Population survey. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. January 26, 2024. Accessed June 11, 2024. 

Students from marginalized communities in New Haven, Connecticut, took part in blendVET’s Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine event aimed at showing them that they, too, belong in the veterinary medicine field

Pawsibilities for students with aspirations of becoming veterinary professionals

University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine alumna, Allison O'Donnell, DVM, and her fiancé Matt Cardinale were away from their home when it caught fire suddenly. Their 4 pets—a French bulldog Bella, 2 cats Tina and Temple, and husky/terrier mix Squid—were all in the house at the time. The City of Davis Fire Department quickly arrived on the scene to put out the fire and rescue the animals trapped inside. Five-year-old Squid suffered the worst of the smoke inhalation, and her health was rapidly declining.

The firefighters were able to give Squid oxygen at the scene until local animal control helped rush Squid to the UC Davis veterinary hospital as O’Donnell met them there. “I can’t emphasize enough how important the firefighters were to Squid's survival to this point,” said Kate Hopper, BVSc, MVS, PhD, DACVECC, in a news article, a veterinarian at UC Davis.

 “The oxygen she received at the scene was likely lifesaving.”

Five-year-old Squid. (Photo courtesy of UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine)

While at the hospital, Squid’s respiratory status continued to decline, and Hopper was concerned that Squid, now oxygen dependent, could potentially become unresponsive to oxygen therapy if her lung injuries progressed. “Unfortunately, it is very hard to predict how smoke inhalation cases will progress,” said Hopper.

Squid had swelling in her throat and nasal cavity due to inhaling hot ash from the fire and according to Hopper, a tracheotomy might be required to assist her breathing. However, steroids reduced the inflammation and Squid responded well to oxygen therapy throughout the night. By morning, she showed significant improvement, appearing bright and responsive for the first time since her hospitalization.

Allison O'Donnell, DVM, and her fiancé Matt Cardinale with their dogs Bella and Squid. (Photo courtesy of UC Davis)

By the third day of her hospitalization, Squid was weaned off oxygen and was able to breathe on her own. Squid was also examined by cardiology, neurology, and ophthalmology specialists to assess the rest of her heath. The cardiologist determined her heart was functioning normally, however the ophthalmologist treated Squid for corneal ulcers developed from the hot smoke and ash, and the neurologist discovered a slight head tremor. This is common for both humans and animals affected by carbon monoxide poisoning and also leads to an abnormal gait that may not fully absolve.

Squid's condition continued to improve, and she was discharged after 5 days. O'Donnell is closely monitoring her progress with the assistance of her colleagues at VCA Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic in California, where she is completing her 1-year internship before beginning a 3-year residency in emergency and critical care at the University of Pennsylvania. O'Donnell told UC Davis that she anticipates Squid will be fully recovered by the time they relocate to Philadelphia later this summer.

Warren R. Dog survives carbon monoxide poisoning from house fire. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. May 28, 2024. Accessed June 11, 2024. 

https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/dog-survives-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-house-fire

The UC Davis veterinary hospital team saved 5-year-old Squid after she was overcome by smoke inhalation

Dog saved from house fire and treated for carbon monoxide poisoning

When Nebula, 2-year-old 'axanthic blue' green iguana, entered the clinic on January 6, 2024, the patient had visible follicles and lab work was performed. Diagnostics showed unreadable hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and leukocytosis (34.5K). The patient would then go on to receive an ultrasound, which showed incompletely calcified follicles.

Nebula was moved into a reinforced cage able to withstand the weight of a nest box. The veterinary team provided nesting material that consisted of a 50/50 mixture of organic dirt mixed with Quikrete sand. Water was then added to the mixture until the material was able to retain a tunnel and calcium supplementation was increased. Nebula displayed some digging, but oviposition did not occur.

Nebula’s appetite began to gradually decrease as the eggs grew to the point that the patient eventually required syringe feeding of Oxbow Critical Care with 1/2 Extra Strength Tums, or 1 pinch of Arcadia Calcium Pro-Mg, to ensure adequate daily intake.

On January 30, 2024, the veterinary team rechecked the lab work and all values were similar except that the leukocytosis has decreased slightly to 33,800. The ultrasound and radiographs showed that patient had fully calcified eggs. Then, on February 21, 2024, radiographs were rechecked with no obvious changes and calcium (100 mg/kg IM diluted 1:1 with saline) was administered IM 1 hour prior to oxytocin (20 U/kg). At this time, the team noted that there was no laying behavior.

A second nesting box with different dirt, The Bio Dude Terra Sahara, was placed and a blanket was hung to give the patient privacy yet, there continued to be no nesting behavior. Calcium and oxytocin were then repeated every 8 hours for 2 days with no success. Given the change in season, ongoing inappetence, and loss of body condition, the team elected to perform an ovariohysterectomy.

Nebula, now a surgery patient, was placed in dorsal recumbency with the dorsal spines recessed into the V of the surgery table. A ventral paramedian incision was made through the scales, and the right ovary was elevated. Mosquito hemostats were used to make windows between vessels as well as combination of small and medium hemoclips were used. When placing a hemoclip by the right renal artery, the clip penetrated the artery. Pressure was held by the assisting student extern and 2 medium hemoclips were applied resolving the hemorrhage. The procedure was repeated on the left ovary with no complications. All visible reproductive tissue was removed, and a clot from the area of the renal artery puncture was removed from the coelom prior to closing also well. The team noted that there was no ongoing hemorrhage. The subcutaneous tissue was closed with simple continuous using 4-0 monoweb, avoiding the ventral abdominal vein and attempting to encourage eversion of tissue. Skin was closed with 35R staples continuing to evert tissue and a island bandage was placed over the incision and the patient was sent home on ceftazidime 30 mg/kg SQ q 72 hr x 10 d, meloxicam 0.15 mg/kg PO q 24 hr x 7 d, and tramadol ~ 5 mg/kg PO q 12 hr x 7 d.

Nebula during the surgery (Images courtesy of Sherri Edgar, DVM)

Iguana spays have an inherent risk because of the close association of the ovary with the renal arteries. These patients also have a higher risk because of the amount of body mass that is lost while gravid. This patient was given longer to try and lay without going to surgery because the owner’s medical acumen and the fact that this was the patients first reproductive cycle.

The patient’s recovery in hospital was slow, but the patient was able to move around and eat a small amount of critical care prior to leaving the hospital. The iguana’s enclosure had all bathing containers removed and dog beds were used to pad the bottom of the enclosure with towels on top for easy cleaning. Nebula was allowed access to perches to ensure adequate UV exposure/ POTZ maintenance. The patient began eating their favorite treat, rose petals, 7 hours after the operation and continued to eat small amounts daily. The iguana's preference in food changed from greens to softened commercial pelleted diets. The patient also received syringed critical care daily as a reward until oral medications were discontinued. The patient began resuming parkour-like antics after 6 days and their appetite remained moderately decreased for 5 weeks post-operation. Nebula’s bowel movement frequency and volume is still decreased at 6 weeks post operation.

The patient was allowed access to normal temperature regulated bathtub after 14 days. The patient began shedding sections of staples 10 days post-op and any staples that the patient did not shed will be removed 6 weeks post operation

Nebula’s bloodwork was rechecked 6 weeks post operation showing their calcium and phosphorous levels had returned to normal. Leukocytosis showed minimal improvement (32.7K), and new blood will be collected for culture/sensitivity once appropriate tubes are received. If the culture is negative, the leukocytosis will be monitored to establish seasonal patterns for the patient.

CityVet, Las Colinas Owner, has a passion for reptile medicine, internal medicine, and pain management. She loves how every day is different and enjoys partnering with clients to provide the best care for their furry and scaly friends. She graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2014, and has an assortment of pets including a snake, iguanas, cats and dogs.

Nebula is a 2-year-old 'axanthic blue' green iguana

Case study: Iguana spay 

Officials with the FDA have approved the first generic phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride chewable tablets (Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride; ZyVet Animal Health, Inc) for the control of urinary incontinence because of urethral sphincter hypotonus in dogs. Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride chewable tablets contain the same active ingredient (phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride) in the same concentration and dosage form as Proin chewable tablets (PRN Pharmacal).

Urinary incontinence occurs when a dog loses its ability to control when it urinates. Urinary incontinence because of urethral sphincter hypotonus can happen as dogs age and as the animal’s muscle in its urethra weakens and loses control over its ability to hold urine.

ZyVet’s phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride chewable tablets are only available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian. Professional veterinary expertise is needed to diagnose the cause of urinary incontinence and to determine whether phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride chewable tablets are an appropriate treatment.

Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride chewable tablets are available in 25, 50 and 75 mg, in 60 and 180 count bottles. Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride chewable tablets are scored, and dosage should be calculated in half-tablet increments. These generic tablets should be administered orally at a total daily dose of 2 mg/kg (0.91 mg/lb) of body weight twice daily, using a suitable combination of half-tablet increments.

Based in Pennington, New Jersey, ZyVet Animal Health Inc manufactures bioequivalent generic drugs for the animal health market. The company is a division of Zydus Lifesciences, a global generic pharmaceuticals developer for human medicine.

Proin chewable tablets were first approved by the FDA on August 4, 2011, as a brand name drug product. ZyVet’s Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride chewable tablets contain no inactive ingredients that may significantly affect the bioavailability of the active ingredient.

FDA approves first generic phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride chewable tablets for use in dogs. FDA. June 11, 2024. Accessed June 12, 2024. 

https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-approves-first-generic-phenylpropanolamine-hydrochloride-chewable-tablets-use-dogs?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

About us. ZyVet Animal Health. Accessed June 12, 2024. 

Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride chewable tablets (ZyVet Animal Health) is the first bioequivalent to Proin for treatment of canine urethral sphincter hypotonus.

Generic drug for urinary incontinence in dogs receives FDA approval

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recently named Zenithson Ng, DVM, MS, as the 2024 Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year, and Debra Hickman, DVM, DACLAM, DACAW, the recipient of the 2024 AVMA Animal Welfare Award. Each recognition is awarded annually to an exceptional individual for their contribution to animal welfare, according to the AVMA.

Both awards and other recognitions are scheduled to be celebrated on Saturday, June 22, 2024, during a special event at the 2024 AVMA Convention in Austin, Texas. The event will begin 2 PM CDT on the Center Stage of the exhibit hall at the Austin Convention Center.

2024 Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award

Ng is a clinical assistant professor of community practice at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in Knoxville, a member of AVMA’s Animal Welfare Committee, diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, and veterinary advisor of the Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee (HABIT)—a volunteer community intervention organization that collaborates to delve into the circumstances and consequences of the human-animal bond, with the goal of promoting the significance of this bond.

The Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award is among the most esteemed in veterinary medicine, according to AVMA. It acknowledges the remarkable efforts of veterinarians in safeguarding and promoting the bond between humans and animals, and forms part of a trio of Animal Welfare and Human-Animal Bond Excellence Awards bestowed each year by the association.

“I am deeply honored to have been chosen as this year's recipient of such a prestigious award. It is a true privilege to be acknowledged for what lies at the heart of our profession as veterinarians—the human-animal bond,” Ng said in a news release.

 “The Bustad award serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication we hold towards understanding, nurturing and championing this vital connection.”

A graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in Ithaca, New York, Ng went on to earn a master’s degree in human-animal bond studies from Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia. He is the first veterinarian to pursue a residency program in human-animal bond studies in the nation, according to the release.

Ng’s passion for the human-animal connection led him to develop initiatives focusing on pet owner education, animal welfare, and the role of veterinarians in community health. His research and teaching efforts include the impact of human-animal interaction, the veterinary-client-patient relationship, and stress alleviation in veterinary and animal-assisted intervention settings. Moreover, Ng exercises a holistic approach in his practice, encompassing the emotional and psychological dimensions of pet ownership and the significant role animals play in human well-being.

“The selection of Dr Ng as the recipient of the 2024 Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award recognizes his transformative impact on the field,” Carlson said in the release. “His commitment to improving the quality of life for animals and their human companions is evident through his deep engagement with both the veterinary and local communities. Dr Ng's work embodies the spirit of Dr Leo K. Bustad, celebrating and nurturing the powerful bond between people and their pets,” she continued.

Hickman was awarded the recognition for her years of teaching, research, and leadership in the veterinary profession dedicated to improving the well-being of animals. The award, given to a veterinarian member of the AVMA, recognizes recipients for their outstanding accomplishments in animal welfare advancement through leadership, public service, education, research/product development, and advocacy.

"I am honored to be recognized by the AVMA with this prestigious award,” Hickman said in a news release.

 “Having had the opportunity to work with many dedicated professionals through the AVMA and affiliate organizations, I appreciate the commitment of this organization to the support of animal welfare.”

Throughout her career, Hickman has developed refinements that advanced husbandry practices, biomethodology assessments, and euthanasia methods. Her research has included improving laboratory animal euthanasia methods to mitigate pain and distress. Additionally, she has developed techniques for measuring stress levels in rodents and for utilizing body condition scoring to monitor the welfare of rats with polycystic kidney disease.

As an educator, Hickman has taught courses on laboratory animal medicine, ethics, and welfare at Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine in Lafayette, Indiana, as a clinical professor, concurrently serving as the university’s associate vice president of animal resources and attending. Hickman has also mentored aspiring veterinarians and animal welfare advocates.

"Dr Hickman’s work exemplifies the dedication and innovation required to advance animal welfare," Rena Carlson, DVM, president of the AVMA, said in the release.

 "Her leadership and research have had a profound impact on the field, and she is truly deserving of this award."

Presently, Hickman is the global director at the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International, a non-profit organization that works to promote the humane treatment of animals in science through voluntary accreditation and assessment programs. Moreover, she has certifications in laboratory animal medicine from the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine in animal welfare from the American College of Animal Welfare.

AVMA names Dr Zenithson Ng recipient of 2024 Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award. News release. American Veterinary Medical Association. May 9, 2024. Accessed June 10, 2024. 

https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/avma-names-dr-zenithson-ng-recipient-2024-bustad-companion-animal-veterinarian

Dr Debra Hickman named winner of the 2024 AVMA Animal Welfare Award. News release. American Veterinary Medical Association. June 6, 2024. Accessed June 10, 2024. 

https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/dr-debra-hickman-named-winner-2024-avma-animal-welfare-award

AVMA Convention schedule: AVMA Excellence Awards Celebration. AVMA. Accessed June 12, 2024. 

https://s1.goeshow.com/avma/annual/2024/AVMA2024.cfm?session_key=6F1D8D18-ADCB-D05C-532D-76CB4E8640F2&session_date=Saturday,%20Jun%2022,%202024

The American Veterinary Medical Association recently announced the recipient of the 2024 Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year and of the 2024 AVMA Animal Welfare Award