Our Fetch conference heads back to Kansas City, Missouri, for another action-packed weekend of continuing education lectures, networking, and fun programs. The conference, taking place August 23-25, 2024, will feature 3 keynote presentations from Michael Bailey, DVM, DACVR, AAAS Fellow; Lisa Radosta, DVM, DACVB; and Monica Dixon Perry, CVPM.

The 2023 keynote speaker, Bob Murtaugh, DVM, MS, DACVIM, DACVECC, told dvm360, “As always, I enjoy the rekindling of old relationships and the development of new relationships in the profession when I attend conferences. Meeting people and sharing old stories and building some new stories is what excites me about what lies ahead in Kansas City. Fetch conferences bring a level of excitement and energy that is unique in the conference realm. I’m looking forward to soaking that up.”

Learn more about the Fetch Kansas City keynote speakers below:

Bailey is originally from Hopewell, New Jersey, and he received his undergraduate degree at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. He received his DVM from Tuskegee University in Alabama and then completed a small animal rotating internship and radiology residency at Michigan State University in East Lansing. He opened the first veterinary diagnostic imaging center in Columbus, Ohio, and then in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Bailey now is the medical director of IDEXX, having worked for the company since 2016. He is on the American Veterinary Medical Association’s board of directors, and he is an American Association for the Advancement of Science congressional fellow.

When not working, he likes traveling with his wife, rebuilding cars and motorcycles, and photography.

Radosta graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville and then completed an internship in small animal medicine and surgery at Coral Springs Animal Hospital. She worked as a primary care veterinarian for 2 1⁄2 years before her 3-year residency in behavioral medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. During her residency, she was awarded the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists Resident research award 2 years in a row.

In 2005, Radosta went to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to volunteer in the efforts to help animals stranded by Hurricane Katrina. Radosta is the owner of Florida Veterinary Behavior Service, one of the few veterinary behavioral medicine hospital centers in the US that provides expert, compassionate care while enhancing the human-animal bond.

Radosta loves spending time with her husband, Scott, and daughter, Isabella, as well as Maverick, her Labrador retriever, and Chewie, her black cat. Radosta is one of 90 veterinary behaviorists in the world. She is also a world-class lecturer, author, and teacher.

Monica Dixon Perry, CVPM, is director of veterinary consulting services at Burzenski & Company. She has more than 35 years of experience in the veterinary medicine profession and has been a certified veterinary practice manager (CVPM) for more than 20 years. Before her consultant work, Dixon Perry managed a successful full-service, small animal Eastern and Western medicine veterinary practice in Raleigh, North Carolina. As the hospital administrator at Bowman Animal Hospital and Cat Clinic in Raleigh for more than a decade, she directed every aspect of the hospital’s operations.

Dixon Perry has lectured at national veterinary conferences and veterinary schools throughout the United States. She also was a part-time university lecturer at North Carolina State University in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics where she taught veterinary practice management on the undergraduate level.

Dixon Perry lives in Raleigh with her husband and daughter.

Do not miss out on this opportunity to see these keynote speakers in Kansas City, so 

Articles

Here are the inspiring speakers taking the main stage at Fetch in August 2024 

Keeping up with our Kansas City keynote speakers

The FDA announced that it has finalized Guidance for Industry (GFI) #120: Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) Regulation Questions and Answers to help guide veterinarians, clients, and stakeholders involved in veterinary feed directives.

 GFI #120 complies with the VFD final rule that went into effect in 2015 and outlines the authorization process of approving animal drugs in the feed of food-producing animals that require veterinary oversight. This also includes antimicrobials that are medically important when needed, specifically for animal health purposes. The final guidance will also serve as a Small Entity Compliance Guide.

The FDA disclosed in its release that despite the core recommendations in final GFI #120 remaining the same as the revised draft guidance issued in 2019, the language in the final version better aligns with industry practices within the industry.

 The final rule also clarifies flexibilities to help reduce burdens on distributors, producers, and veterinarians. For example, the FDA provided a hypothetical scenario to illustrate the responsibility of shareholders under the final rule.

The changes were informed by public comment on the revised draft guidance and feedback stakeholders provided during VFD inspections and the final guidance reflects a technical amendment to the VFD final rule from 2020 and an updated contact information and online resources. When it comes to VFD, inspections are conducted by the FDA to verify that the antimicrobial used in or on the feed of food-producing animals is properly.

 The FDA VFD Inspection data found that of the inspected stakeholders, 95% have complied with the VFD final rule.

Through the final GFI #120, the FDA hopes to give any stakeholders more clarification to better understand and implement the VFD requirements which in turn improve antimicrobial stewardship.

FDA finalizes guidance to provide further clarity on Veterinary Feed Directives. News release. US Food and Drug Administration. April 26, 2024. Accessed April 26, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-finalizes-guidance-provide-further-clarity-veterinary-feed-directives?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

FDA-TRACK: Progress on FDA’s support of antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary settings. US Food and Drug Administration. Published online 2024. Accessed April 26, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-track-agency-wide-program-performance/fda-track-progress-fdas-support-antimicrobial-stewardship-veterinary-settings#VFD

The Guidance for Industry will provide more clarity on veterinary feed directives

FDA finalizes GFI #120

 readers! As we continue to prepare for Fetch Nashville, we are continuing to look forward to Fetch Kansas City. If you are missing us in Nashville, don’t worry there is still room available for Fetch Kansas City, Fetch Coastal in Atlantic City, and Fetch Long Beach later this year. Check out 

 to find the conference closet to you, or where you want to vacation this year, to secure your spot today!

Here is what readers can find this week on dvm360.com:

The United States federal government announced it will require dairy cattle testing for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) before being transported to another state, but the criteria could change based on the evolving understanding of HPAI and its risks.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets recently release the results of a survey it conducted involving over 300 veterinary professionals that highlights the pros and cons they face in practice.

, Katie Fish, DVM, explains to our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, how mentorship and culture within clinics can create excellence for teams.

The University of Florida’s Marine Animal Rescue team recently responded to a distressed dolphin in Dixie County, leading them to discuss the first case of HPAI in a cetacean in North America after the team performed a postmortem examination.

The Veterinary Innovation Council announced it has launched new resources to help address the problem of access to veterinary care in the United States as well as services for veterinarians to reach underserved patients.

Here is a sneak peek of this week’s headlines 

Sneak peek:  USDA now requiring HPAI testing for lactating dairy cattle prior to transportation, and other veterinary news 

Phibro Animal Health will acquire Zoetis’ medicated feed additive (MFA) product portfolio, certain water soluble products and related assets for $350 million. The 2 parties announced the definitive agreement on Sunday, April 28, 2024, in a joint news release.

The product portfolio is comprised of more than 37 product lines that are sold in approximately 80 countries and generated approximately $400 million in revenue in 2023. Six manufacturing sites are also included in the agreement, including 4 sites in the US, and 1 each in Italy and China. The transaction is expected to be completed later this year.

According to Zoetis, the agreement is a capital allocation strategy that allows the company—based in Parsippany, New Jersey—to focus its investments on solutions for animal health, productivity and sustainability. These solutions include vaccine, biologic and genetic programs for livestock.

“We remain committed to providing innovative solutions to our livestock customers,” Kristin Peck, chief executive officer of Zoetis, said in the release. “We believe that the long-term value of the transferred portfolio will be fully realized with Phibro Animal Health which will continue to expand its reach given their strong relationships with customers worldwide.”

Zoetis’ portfolio of MFA and water soluble products across cattle, swine and poultry is strong, according to the company. The portfolio is expected to complement and expand Phibro Animal Health’s species and product portfolios that focus on animal care, disease prevention, and nutrition. 

Based in Teaneck, New Jersey, Phibro Animal Health sales in the last 12 months would have been approximately $1.4B with a combined basis for the acquisition. The portfolio pending acquisition is expected to boost Phibro Animal Health’s profitability. The acquisition is expected to be funded primarily with debt, and Phibro Animal Health has received financing commitments from a number of key relationship banks.

“Over a long period of time, Zoetis has built a valuable, high-quality and reliable source of medicated feed additives around the globe,” Jack C. Bendheim, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Phibro Animal Health, said in the release. “This investment will enhance, diversify and broaden our portfolio globally and help us continue to deliver value to our customers and to our shareholders. We believe our cash generation will allow for continued investment into our higher growth businesses of nutritional specialties, companion animal, and vaccines. I am confident we have the right capabilities to integrate and strengthen this business.”

According to Zoetis, more than 300 of its employees in manufacturing, distribution and commercial activities are expected to transition to Phibro Animal Health. The 2 companies anticipate working closely with employees and customers to ensure a smooth transition and continued supply of these important products. “I look forward to collaborating with the Zoetis team and welcoming new colleagues to Phibro Animal Health to support this portfolio,” Bendheim said.

Zoetis to sell medicated feed additive portfolio to Phibro Animal Health. News release. Zoetis and Phibro Animal Health. April 28, 2024. Accessed April 29, 2024. 

https://investor.zoetis.com/news/news-details/2024/Zoetis-to-Sell-Medicated-Feed-Additive-Portfolio-to-Phibro-Animal-Health/default.aspx

The $350 deal includes medicated feed additive products, certain water soluble products, and related assets.

Phibro Animal Health will acquire product portfolio from Zoetis

Happy Veterinary Day to all the amazing veterinarians out there! Everyone at 

 truly appreciates all the dedication, hard work, and care you provide to everyone who walks into the veterinary clinics or hospitals you work for. We want to thank you for all of your efforts and hope you take today to reflect on all that you do for the pets of the world.

As everyone is celebrating the amazing professionals out there, we wanted to highlight some that we have covered recently here at 

Striving for equity in veterinary medicine

 how she is working to make the veterinary industry a more inclusive place through resources and learning opportunities for veterinary professionals who may not have had easy access to them through a certification program called VetREDI, and more.

Dan Bieck, DVM, gave an inside look at how he is striving to improve euthanasia appointments for the patient, client, and veterinary team through education and compassion.

Charitable veterinarian named CNN’s 2023 Hero of the Year

: Kwane Stewart, DVM, known as "The Street Vet," was named the 2023 CNN Hero of the Year for his work with the nonprofit he founded, Project Street Vet, which provides veterinary care to pets living with homeless individuals.

In celebration of World Veterinary Day, here are multiple veterinary professionals making a difference in the industry 

3 must-reads for World Veterinary Day 

You never forget the day you walk across that stage to receive your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. It has to be one of the proudest days in all of our lives. You and I have worked so hard to earn that golden degree. Sacrifices, lots of studying, and support from family and friends helped get you where you are today. Recently I was asked to be the commencement speaker at my alma mater, Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, for the graduating class of 2024.

A commencement speech is one of the most difficult speeches I have written.

The graduates likely will forever remember the words and inspiration I offer.

What should I say to the graduating class of 2024?

As we welcome and congratulate the graduates, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and admiration for all of them. Members of the class of 2024 started their journey that they have undertaken has built their resilience and adaptability.

Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, at his 2004 graduation from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. 

As you know, entering the field of veterinary medicine is not merely a profession; It is a calling, a noble endeavor rooted in compassion, empathy, and the unwavering commitment to the well-being of all creatures, great and small. Sometimes we can lose sight of that and forget our why. As I offer words of wisdom to our new colleagues, I feel it’s worth our time to read and absorb these words.

Think about the profound impact we have on the lives of animals and their human companions. Whether it be companion animals or livestock, your
expertise and care will not only alleviate suffering but also bring comfort and solace to those who place their animals in our capable hands. Embrace this responsibility with humility and gratitude, for it is a privilege to be entrusted with the care of another living being. What other profession offers the opportunity to take care of all species and indirectly affect and improve the lives of humans? The impact is profound, and the reward is immense. 

Throughout our veterinary career, we encounter challenges and obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Some days may feel tougher and longer than others. But in these moments, remember the resilience and determination that have been instilled in us all. We often need to draw strength from our passion for veterinary medicine and the unwavering support from our colleagues and mentors. As Winston S. Churchill once said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” Embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning, knowing that with perseverance, we will overcome.

What I love most about our veterinary degree is the versatility that comes with it. If you told me 5 years ago that I would be the chief veterinary officer for the country's leading continuing education and multimedia veterinary company, I would have said you were out of your mind. Be sure to seize an opportunity when it presents itself and share opportunities to help a colleague who may need a door opened for them.

Furthermore, never underestimate the power of collaboration and teamwork. Though our profession is vast and complex, encompassing a multitude of specialties and disciplines allows for phenomenal innovation to occur. By working together and sharing knowledge, we can achieve remarkable advancements in animal health and welfare. Cultivate relationships with your peers, seek out mentorship opportunities, and never hesitate to ask for help when needed. Remember, we are stronger together than we could ever be alone.

As you embark on your professional journey, never lose sight of the importance of self-care and well-being. Veterinary medicine can be emotionally and physically demanding, requiring long hours and often difficult decisions. Take time to recharge your batteries, nurture your passions outside of work, and prioritize your mental and physical health. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. By taking care of yourself, you will be better equipped to care for others.

Finally, embrace a spirit of lifelong learning and curiosity. Your education is just beginning as you receive your diploma. Fetch and 

 will be there for you, to nurture and grow your skill set for the rest of your career. You are entering a phenomenal time in our profession. Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving, with new discoveries and advancements made each day. Seize the technology, embrace the innovation, and work with those who get it. As veterinarians, we have a responsibility to advocate for our patients and push the boundaries of what is possible. Be your patient’s best advocate.

Dr Christman in 2024 back at his alma mater. 

As we welcome you to the profession and you embark on this new chapter, remember the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Embrace each day with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to excellence, knowing that you have the power to make a difference in the lives of animals and their human companions.

Welcome to the profession, doctors. The word awaits your boundless potential, and I have no doubt that you will continue to inspire and uplift all those around you. Continue to make the profession proud. 

Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Class of 2004. 

Advice for newly graduated veterinarians from our chief veterinary officer, Adam Christman, DVM, MBA