Swing by the check-in spot at the Graffiti coatroom (2nd fl.) to snag your badge and a swag bag packed with giveaways!

Admit it! You've always wanted to explore the Mall of America (That's "MOA," for us Minnesotans). Get set to explore the largest mall in the United States or explore downtown Minneapolis, thanks to the connecting light rail! Roam the town, savor the amazing eats, and absorb all the awesomeness Minneapolis has up its sleeve for you. 🌟

Click the link for in-hotel dinner options at the Radisson Blue or better yet, hit the MOA for all-you-can-eat. You can also hit the town to see what else Minneapolis has to offer and enjoy the night on the town! 

Stop by the Radisson Blu Fire Lake Grill (2nd fl.) for some serious networking as we give you a Minnesota welcome! Swing by for a sip and some free drinks & snacks! #EventFun

>> FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar - Radisson Blu

In this 50-minute lecture, Kara Burns MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Walter Brown, RVTg, VTS (ECC); Tiffany Gendron, CVT, VTS (ECC), Amy Johnson, BS, LVT, RLATG, CVJ; Brianne Morrow, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); and Robin Saar, RVT, VTS (Nutrition) will share insights and experiences, followed by an interactive Q&A session with the audience about on how to turn the lemons of adversity into the lemonade of a rewarding career in veterinary technology. In the challenging and rewarding field of veterinary medicine, the role of the veterinary technician is indispensable yet demanding. With a turnover rate of 30-35%, significantly higher than the national average of 12-15%, many veterinary technicians leave the profession within 5-10 years. This panel discussion addresses the critical question: How can veterinary technicians not only survive but thrive in their profession?

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize the common challenges faced by veterinary technicians, including physical demands, mental stress, and workplace dynamics.
2. Explore strategies for maintaining passion and finding one's niche within the diverse roles available in veterinary technology.
3. Discuss the importance of continuous education and specialization for career longevity and satisfaction.
4. Identify signs of burnout and compassion fatigue and learn effective coping mechanisms.
5. Evaluate the impact of workplace environment and how to handle toxic situations.
6. Emphasize the importance of a healthy work-life balance and self-care practices.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

A message from our generous sponsors, who play a vital role in supporting our initiatives and making our programs possible.

In this 1-hour lecture, Walter Brown, RVTg, VTS (ECC) brings his experiences and learned tips of trade from ECC to discuss the essential role veterinary technicians play in the comprehensive care for critically ill animals impacts health outcomes. While we often picture the “hospitalized” or critically ill patient being within an emergency or specialty center, they also can occur within general practice. It’s important that we remain agile in this profession, all while upholding our standards of care leading our patients to recovery and hopefully discharge status. Highlighting the complexities of each patient's condition, the lecture emphasizes the technician's need for adaptability, drawing on their knowledge base and critical thinking skills. The session explores fundamental concepts in ECC, equipping technicians to anticipate and manage potential complications effectively. Through a goal-oriented approach, learn to craft tailored nursing care plans aimed at achieving desired outcomes while mitigating patient risks. Practical strategies for assessing patients upon admission and collaborating during rounds underscore the importance of meticulous care planning. Key topics include fluid balance management, nutritional support, pain management, and infection control, all crucial competencies optimizing patient recovery.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and apply basic principles of fluid balance management in hospitalized veterinary patients, distinguishing between signs of dehydration and fluid overload.
2. Establish proficiency in conducting a comprehensive physical examination, including vital signs assessment and recognition of potential complications such as catheter-related issues.
3. Review evidence-based nursing care plans that prioritize patient comfort, nutritional support, and infection prevention, aligning with established veterinary protocols.
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of nursing interventions in critically ill patients through regular assessment and documentation, ensuring adjustments are made to optimize patient outcomes.
5. Equip yourself with actionable tactics to implement in your practice, irrespective of its type, ensuring immediate application of newly acquired knowledge.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Good work - worthwhile work - can be hard work and veterinary medicine is no exception. Sometimes the difference between burning out and burning bright is less about our talents and more about our ability to persevere, bounce back, and learn from challenges and adversities. Psychologists call those abilities “resilience factors” and it turns out, just like the skills of venipuncture or soft tissue surgery they can be learned, honed, and mastered.   In this session we’ll explore the various types of resilience factors and learn about evidence-based practices for growing our resources within each type. Attendees will be empowered with a research-backed plan for cultivating heightened resilience both professionally and personally.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understanding the PERMA model of wellbeing
2. Defining psychological resilience
3. Understanding the 3 primary types of psychological resilience
4. Exploring evidence-based skills for amplifying psychological resilience
   

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

From cranky clients to team members in a bad mood, in veterinary medicine we routinely encounter difficult interpersonal situations. Pushed to our edge with the stress of our daily work it can feel near impossible to respond to these situations (and people) productively. But there’s good news! Every human being – and, by extension, every veterinary professional – has a super power that, when used, can give us (and them) the boost we need to connect and solve problems, together. In this session you’ll learn about the Brain Bank, our natural brain chemistry superpowers, and simple evidence-based tools to connect with difficult people.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understanding the science of psychological energy
2. Understand the role of oxytocin in interpersonal interactions
3. Explore four evidence-based strategies for navigating difficult conversations with neuroscience

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this 50-minute discussion led by Robin Saar, RVT, VTS (Nutrition) with Kara Burns MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Brianne Morrow, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Walter Brown, RVT, VTS (ECC); Tiffany Gendron, CVT, VTS (ECC); and Amy Johnson, BS, LVT, RLATG, CVJ on deck to add a layer of panel discussion and sharing best practices.

Let’s face it—talking about money makes most of us squirm. But the truth is, we can’t transform our economic reality or elevate our profession until we get comfortable with the uncomfortable. This panel is about flipping the script—from “I’m just a tech” to “I’m a revenue driver.” Knowing your worth is the first step. Owning it? That’s where the magic (and the money) happens.

Credentialed veterinary technicians (CrVTs) are uniquely positioned to lead impactful conversations about pet nutrition—a service opportunity as essential as it is underutilized. After all, pets eat every day. By creating CrVT-led nutrition appointments, we can increase client touchpoints, improve patient outcomes, and open up a meaningful revenue stream that supports technician pay raises, hospital growth, and better care.

This session will walk you through how CrVT-driven nutrition services can generate real financial return, foster team cohesion, and fuel professional growth. You’ll leave with the tools to move from awkward to empowered—confident in your value, ready to talk money, and prepared to advocate for a stronger future.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the economic impact of CrVT-driven appointments and articulate their value to hospital leadership.
2. Apply strategies to implement technician-led nutrition services in practice settings, aligning with clinic workflows and goals.
3. Build confidence in navigating challenging conversations around pay, pricing, and the financial worth of CrVT contributions.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this lecture, Kara Burns MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition), will address the often-overlooked aspect of nutrition in the care of hospitalized veterinary patients. Veterinary technicians have a vital role in advocating for and ensuring these patients' nutritional needs are met, as proper nutrition supports immune function, cellular structure, and drug metabolism. In this lecture, Kara will discuss the severe consequences of inadequate nutrition, including lean body mass loss, delayed wound healing, and an increased risk of infections. She'll walk through the steps of assessing the nutritional needs of patients and determining the appropriate feeding route, starting with stabilization and addressing issues such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances to prevent complications.

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize the vital role of nutrition in supporting immune function, cellular structure, and drug metabolism for hospitalized veterinary patients.
2. Develop skills to accurately assess the nutritional needs of critically ill patients.
3. Highlight the prioritization of stabilizing patients by addressing dehydration, acid-base, and electrolyte imbalances before initiating nutritional support to prevent additional complications.
4. Evaluate the pros and cons of different feeding routes, with a preference for enteral feeding, and understand the legal and practical considerations for their use in various states.
5. Identify appropriate critical care diets and potential human nutrition options, ensuring they meet the specific needs of hospitalized patients.
6. Acknowledge the risks and signs of refeeding syndrome and learn to monitor and adjust feeding plans to prevent and manage this condition effectively.
7. Enhance your skills and confidence in encouraging patients to eat and collaborating with veterinarians to create and supervise comprehensive nutrition care plans.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1.5 Hours*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this lecture, Kara Burns MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition) and Brianne Morrow, LVT, VTS (Nutrition) as they dynamically present on how veterinary technicians play an essential role in the care and well-being of pediatric patients, and understanding their unique appeal is key to providing exceptional service. This session will explore how the natural charm and engaging nature of puppies and kittens can enhance the clinic environment and strengthen the bond between pet owners and the veterinary team. By harnessing the positive energy these young patients bring, technicians can create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

Learning Objectives:

1. Acknowledge the Benefits: Veterinary technician-led health assessments and consultations create a mutually beneficial dynamic for the practice, clients, patients, and technicians.
2. Recognize the Unique Appeal of Pediatric Patients: Understand the factors that make puppies and kittens particularly engaging and how their presence can positively influence the clinic environment.
3. Enhance Client Communication: Develop effective communication strategies to educate pet owners about the special care requirements of their young pets.
4. Implement Early-Life Health Protocols: Gain knowledge on establishing and maintaining vaccination schedules, deworming, and other preventative health measures for pediatric patients.
5. Absorb Pediatric Nutrition: Learn about the specific nutritional needs of puppies and kittens, including the selection of appropriate diets and feeding practices.
6. Monitor Developmental Milestones: Identify key developmental stages in puppies and kittens and understand how to monitor and support their growth and behavioral development.
7. Promote Disease Prevention: Understand the importance of early disease prevention strategies and how to effectively communicate these to pet owners.
8. Enhance Client Relationships & Your Career: Develop techniques for building long-term relationships with clients by providing exceptional care and education during their pet's early life stages.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1.25 Hours*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this 1-hour lecture, Walter Brown, RVTg, VTS (ECC) and Brianne Morrow, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); will present on how canine parvovirus (CPV) continues to present a significant challenge in veterinary medicine, with untreated cases resulting in mortality rates as high as 90%. Traditionally, management of parvoviral enteritis involved strict fasting to rest the gastrointestinal tract. However, research underscores the pivotal role of early enteral nutrition in reducing morbidity and expediting recovery. This presentation aims to empower veterinary technicians by emphasizing the direct impact of their nursing capabilities and providing the critically needed nutrition to improve patient outcomes. It will delve into the critical importance of initiating enteral feeding promptly, exploring practical methods such as the use of feeding tubes to facilitate nutrition delivery along with how to advocate for them in their patients with pet owners. Participants will gain insights into CPV infection pathophysiology, the benefits of early nutritional support in mitigating intestinal damage and systemic complications, and strategies for effectively gaining approval from owners to place nasoesophageal and nasogastric feeding tubes. The session will also cover optimal care plans and outpatient strategies, equipping technicians to serve pet owners effectively across different care settings.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify clinical signs and diagnostic criteria for suspected CPV infection in young dogs, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and appropriate testing methods
2. Review the principles of infection control and environmental within veterinary settings
3. Assess optimal care strategies within hospital and outpatient care options
4. Discuss key nursing capabilities and tricks of the trade to support patient care
5. Analyze the current use of the canine parvo monoclonal antibody treatment
6. Evaluate the evidence supporting early implementation of enteral nutrition in patients with parvoviral enteritis, contrasting traditional fasting approaches with current best practices.
7. Summarize coax feeding techniques and when it may be necessary to place a feeding tube
8. Explore the key nutritional priorities in feeding plans for puppies with CPV

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Ask the experts for insights on key topics discussed during the day's sessions.

Admit it! You've always wanted to explore the Mall of America (That's "MOA," for us Minnesotans). Get set to explore the largest mall in the United States or explore downtown Minneapolis, thanks to the connecting light rail! Roam the town, savor the amazing eats, and absorb all the awesomeness Minneapolis has up its sleeve for you. 🌟

Click the link for in-hotel dinner options at the Radisson Blue or better yet, hit the MOA for all-you-can-eat. You can also hit the town to see what else Minneapolis has to offer and enjoy the night on the town! 

In this lecture, Amy Newfield, MS, CVT, VTS (ECC) will provide veterinary technicians with the knowledge and practical tools to have effective discussions with dog and cat owners who have vaccine hesitancy. By pairing technical information on vaccine schedules with communication tools and techniques that can be used to address the most common pet owner vaccine concerns, this presentation will give veterinary technicians a solid foundation for educating pet owners about the safety, effectiveness, and necessity of vaccines.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this lecture, Amy Newfield, MS, CVT, VTS (ECC) will empower veterinary technicians with the knowledge and skills to educate pet owners about myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), 2 conditions that can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. MMVD alone accounts for a majority of canine heart disease cases in the United States. However, intervention during the preclinical phase of MMVD can delay the onset of CHF in dogs. Veterinary technicians will acquire communication tools and strategies to initiate conversations and articulate the benefits of early identification of MMVD to engage dog owners in proactive screening and diagnostic testing.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Learning Objectives:

1. Knowledge of commonly encountered cardiovascular emergencies and a review of associated clinical signs.
2. Review of common therapies required with cardiovascular emergencies.
3. Review the diagnostics available to aid in diagnosis and monitoring.
4. Monitoring considerations for the cardiac patient

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this lecture, Amy Johnson, BS, LVT, RLATG, CVJ, delves into strategies for veterinary technicians to assertively advocate for their own roles. As vet techs, sitting passively won't shift the utilization balance in our favor. If you're experiencing underutilization, proactive self-advocacy could be the solution. Discover effective approaches to enlighten and persuade those hesitant to embrace our full potential.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand who benefits from optimizing technician utilization
2. Acquire knowledge about available resources supporting the argument for utilization
3. Gain insight into the essential steps for self-advocacy 

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval