Swing by the check-in spot at the B. Jordan Foyer to snag your badge and a swag bag packed with giveaways!

Time to kick up those heels and have a boot-scootin' good time as we give you a warm Texas welcome at the reception. Swing by for a sip and some Southern snacks! 🤠🍹 #TexasStyle #EventFun

>> Lobby Bar - C. Baldwin Hotel

In this 50-minute lecture, Kara Burns MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Walter Brown, RVTg, VTS (ECC); Brianne Morrow, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Amy Johnson, BS, LVT, RLATG, CVJ; and Amanda Shelby, RVTg, VTS (A/A) 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

In this 1-hour lecture, Amanda Shelby, RVTg, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia) will review tricks of the trade for veterinary technicians. In this lecture, she will review anesthetic considerations for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome patients, calculations of CRIs in fluid bags, and review fluid therapy considerations. If you have caught yourself saying “There has got to be an easier way?” this is the lecture for you! Helpful hints that save time and improve quality of care or at least minimize staff frustrations! The focus of this lecture are tricks for anesthesia and emergency practice situations extending to internal medicine and surgery. This presentation captures a variety of skill level interest and is genuinely a light topic lecture designed to make the veterinary technician’s job easier. Through our exchanged knowledge from experiences, collectively, we can improve patient outcomes and make the technical aspects of the job easier.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Learn tricks and hacks that make being a clinical veterinary technician's day easier 
2. Improve safety to personnel by including some of these simple tricks in your clinical practice
3. Learn procedure specific suggestions

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Sponsored by

In this 75-minute 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: 1.25 Hours*

*Pending RACE Approval

This 1-hour panel discussion features a powerhouse lineup: Kara Burns MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Brianne Morrow, LVT, VTS (Nutrition); Walter Brown, RVT, VTS (ECC); Robin Saar, RVT, VTS (Nutrition); Amy Johnson, BS, LVT, RLATG, CVJ; and Amanda Shelby, RVT, VTS (A/A). Together, they will deliver a dynamic and engaging conversation.

The pivotal role of veterinary technicians in enhancing clinic efficiency, improving patient care, and fostering client relationships through nutrition counseling is a clear path forward in optimal veterinary technician utilization and recognition. This panel discussion delves into the art of effective communication, empowering technicians to guide pet owners towards informed nutrition decisions. By emphasizing the importance of structured protocols and team collaboration, technicians can streamline workflow and ensure consistent patient monitoring for optimal health outcomes. In this lecture, the panel will showcase the practical steps of:

C - Create nutrition protocols

R - Receive buy-in from veterinarians

U - Unite with the team

N - Notify clients

C - Commence the program

H - Harness success

With a focus on bridging the gap between medical and wellness nutrition, technicians are poised to lead in providing comprehensive care. By defining and communicating a consistent message on nutrition, practices can elevate service value and client satisfaction while promoting long-term pet health.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Develop skills: Communicate the importance of nutrition in pet health, articulating specific benefits and addressing common client concerns.
2. Create and Implement Structured Nutrition Protocols: Create and implement clear protocols for conducting nutrition assessments, making recommendations, and monitoring patient progress.
3. Obtain Buy In Tips: Get ready to present your idea in a clear concise manner, demonstrating your high level of professionalism and ability to take this next step.
4. Collaborate Effectively within the Veterinary Team: Foster teamwork by engaging veterinarians and support staff in nutrition initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging and coordinated care plans.
5. Utilize Communication Strategies: Apply effective communication techniques to build trust with clients, enhancing their understanding and compliance with nutritional recommendations.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Due to a family emergency, Dr. Justine Lee, DACVECC, DABT will be presenting this session.

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1.5 Hours*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this 75-minute 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.

Get set to dive into the lively city of Houston! Roam the town, savor the amazing eats, and absorb all the awesomeness Houston has up its sleeve for you. 🌟

Click the link for in-hotel dinner options or hit the town to see what else Houston has to offer and enjoy the night on the town! 

In this in-person lecture at Vet Tech U, Eric Garcia discusses leveraging e-commerce for client experience and practice growth. Veterinary practices need to master e-commerce to outpace online retailers and enhance client loyalty. Learn how integrating e-commerce boosts compliance, practice efficiency, and pet health. Find practical strategies to grow your practice and satisfy clients.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the Strategic Role of E-Commerce in Veterinary Practices
2. Explore Practical Applications of E-Commerce to Boost Client Satisfaction and Practice Efficiency
3. Develop a Roadmap for Integrating E-Commerce into Veterinary Practices
4. Learn Strategies to Increase Compliance through E-Commerce, Including Prescriptions and Diets
5. Understand the Impact of Pet Nutrition on Overall Pet Health and Client Loyalty

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Sponsored by:

Conflict is frequently encountered in the veterinary profession. Conflict among the work team can create toxic work environments especially if issues are ignored or avoided. It can be difficult to know what to do or say when a conflict occurs, but learning techniques to manage conflict will create healthier work environments. In this workshop, you will learn about the most common conflict management styles and how to leverage them in various situations. You will have the opportunity to practice conflict management strategies in this interactive workshop so you will feel prepared to implement these strategies within your organization or workplace.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the benefits and pitfalls of the five conflict management styles
2. ​Compare perpetual and solvable problems
3. ​Implement conflict management strategies to successfully navigate conflict in veterinary settings

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

Learning Objectives:

1. This presentation should aid in clarifying to a team of animal care workers under what circumstances and when a debriefing might be best implemented.
2. An overview on how to conduct an effective debriefing in the absence of a mental health worker.
3. An understanding of the intended outcome in holding a debriefing session post adverse event or negative encounter.
4. Who would benefit from debriefing and why.
5. Recognizing the outcomes that can be gained through conducting a debriefing.
   

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

It is estimated that around 75% of veterinary technicians are experiencing moderate to severe burnout. Fortunately, burnout can be prevented and reduced when individuals are given the right tools, resources, and support. In this seminar, we will discuss research findings regarding burnout within the veterinary profession including the incidence of burnout and proposed causes. You will learn to recognize the symptoms of burnout in yourself and others as well as some individual and organizational strategies that you can use to reduce and prevent burnout within the veterinary profession.

Learning Objectives:

1. Discuss research on burnout within veterinary medicine including incidence & proposed causes
2. Recognize symptoms of burnout within yourself and others
3. Discuss individual and organizational strategies to mitigate burnout within the veterinary profession

Sponsored by

CE Credit: 1 Hour*

*Pending RACE Approval

In this session of VETgirl Vet Tech U, 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