This two-hour multi-disciplinary presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of radiation treatment options for animals presenting with neurological diseases. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the application of radiation therapy in veterinary neurology through case studies. The structure will consist of a neurologist presenting the case, clinical findings, imaging findings, and immediate treatment objectives. The radiation oncologist will then take over the case and discuss treatment options, considerations for treatment, discussion points with clients, and, finally, the patient's outcome.

This presentation will equip veterinarians with the knowledge of available radiation therapy as a treatment option for animals with neurological diseases, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Practicing Since: 1998 | Joined VNIoC: 2012

After earning his Veterinary (DVM) and Master’s (MS) degree from the University of Missouri, Dr. McDonnell spent four years in general practice in Missouri and Oregon. Knowing he wanted to do more, he undertook a three-year neurology-neurosurgery residency at Tufts University in Massachusetts, and in 1998 was board-certified in neurology by the American College of Veterinary Medicine.

Since then, Dr. McDonnell has been on a dual path of academia and private practice, first joining the faculty of University of Georgia where he taught in the hospital and classroom. From 2000 to 2004, he was chief of neurology-neurosurgery at Tufts University. There, he helped established the in-house magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite, a brain surgery unit, and minimally-invasive CT-guided biopsy program.

Since moving to Maryland, Dr. McDonnell has become well-known for his work in the definitive treatment of brain tumors and spinal cord tumors, foramen magnum decompression/dorsal laminectomies, and Wobbler’s disease. In 2012, seeing the need for veterinary MRIs, he opened Veterinary Imaging of the Chesapeake.

Teaching continues to be important to Dr. McDonnell. Believing that a balance of the academia and private practice enables him to keep at the forefront of veterinary neurology, he is an assistant clinical professor at Tufts University and a consultant in neurology at the University of Pennsylvania College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. McDonnell has lectured nationally, internationally, and regionally, and has published more than 20 journal articles, reviews, and book chapters. He is a founding member of the Veterinary Neurosurgery Society, and the exhibit coordinator for its biennial symposium.

Dr. McDonnell and his wife, Leigh, who is Director of the New York Aquarium, have a very precocious Hound/Labrador Cross named Drake.

Julianna C. Mannix, VMD received her veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017 after receiving her undergraduate degree from Clemson University. She completed a rotating internship at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston, followed by a neurology speciality internship at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital in San Diego. Dr. Mannix spent a year at the University of Missouri working with clinical trials for canine degenerative myelopathy and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, then went on to complete a three-year neurology/neurosurgery residency at North Carolina State University.

Dr. Mannix and her husband, Michael, moved to Maryland after she finished her residency. They have a Pomeranian named Oliver, and a cat whose name changes every few months depending on her behavior. In her free time, Dr. Mannix enjoys running, checking out new restaurants and coffee shops, and spending time outside.

This two-hour multi-disciplinary presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of radiation treatment options for animals presenting with neurological diseases. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the application of radiation therapy in veterinary neurology through case studies. The structure will consist of a neurologist presenting the case, clinical findings, imaging findings, and immediate treatment objectives. The radiation oncologist will then take over the case and discuss treatment options, considerations for treatment, discussion points with clients, and, finally, the patient's outcome.

This presentation will equip veterinarians with the knowledge of available radiation therapy as a treatment option for animals with neurological diseases, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Erica grew up in Ontario, Canada and from an early age had a fascination with animals and science. In high school she decided that a career in veterinary medicine was what she wanted to pursue. After completing a Bachelor of Science, Honours Zoology degree at the University of Guelph she worked in a number of different animal-related jobs, including the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada.

Erica attended St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine and earned her DVM after completing her clinical year at the University of Florida. She then went on to complete a rotating internship at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Tampa, and a specialty internship in radiation oncology at the University of Pennsylvania Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Philadelphia. Erica then moved to Manhattan for a residency in radiation oncology at the Animal Medical Center, which she completed in July 2019.

When not treating animals with cancer Erica can be found snuggling with her cat Nugget whom she bottle-raised as a kitten, crocheting blankets and sweaters for her niece and nephew, and walking around Annapolis exploring the local culture and history.

Not Just an Old Dog Disease: Changing Mindsets on Canine Osteoarthritis

This presentation challenges the traditional view that osteoarthritis (OA) is primarily a condition affecting only senior dogs. It emphasizes that canine OA can develop in dogs of all ages, including young and active ones, often as a consequence of developmental joint disorders or injury. The lecture underscores the importance of early detection, proactive management, and shifting veterinary and client mindsets toward early intervention rather than late-stage treatment. Key discussion points include recognizing subtle early signs, incorporating multimodal therapy sooner, and utilizing modern diagnostics and therapies to improve long-term outcomes and quality of life in dogs of all ages.

Intra-articular Options for OA Management in Dogs: 2025 Edition

This forward-looking lecture reviews the latest advancements in intra-articular (IA) therapies for canine osteoarthritis (OA), highlighting both established and emerging treatments. It covers current clinical evidence and practical applications of several IA modalities, with a focus on three key areas:

2.5% Polyacrylamide Hydrogels – These hydrogels act as a biocompatible, long-lasting joint filler that integrates with synovial tissue to reduce inflammation and improve joint lubrication. Clinical outcomes suggest improved mobility and pain relief in OA-affected dogs, with minimal adverse effects and a single-injection protocol.

Regenerative Medicine – This includes platelet-rich plasma (PRP), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and autologous protein solutions. These biologic therapies aim to restore joint health by modulating inflammation and promoting tissue repair, offering a customizable and minimally invasive treatment option for early- to mid-stage OA.

Radiosynoviorthesis (RSO) – An emerging IA approach, RSO uses radiopharmaceuticals to target and ablate inflamed synovial tissue, thereby reducing pain and joint effusion. Though more commonly used in human medicine, preliminary veterinary applications show promise for refractory OA cases.

The lecture encourages a multimodal and individualized treatment strategy and emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate candidates for each IA option based on disease stage, joint involvement, and client goals.

Erica grew up in Ontario, Canada and from an early age had a fascination with animals and science. In high school she decided that a career in veterinary medicine was what she wanted to pursue. After completing a Bachelor of Science, Honours Zoology degree at the University of Guelph she worked in a number of different animal-related jobs, including the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada.

Erica attended St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine and earned her DVM after completing her clinical year at the University of Florida. She then went on to complete a rotating internship at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Tampa, and a specialty internship in radiation oncology at the University of Pennsylvania Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Philadelphia. Erica then moved to Manhattan for a residency in radiation oncology at the Animal Medical Center, which she completed in July 2019.

When not treating animals with cancer Erica can be found snuggling with her cat Nugget whom she bottle-raised as a kitten, crocheting blankets and sweaters for her niece and nephew, and walking around Annapolis exploring the local culture and history.

Sick, Shocked, and Septic: Recognize, Respond, Recover

Sepsis is one of the most life-threatening yet misunderstood conditions we see in veterinary emergency and critical care. In this technician-focused session, we’ll break down the pathophysiology of sepsis in a practical, easy-to-digest way—then shift gears into the veterinary nursing strategies that save lives. From early recognition and patient triage to fluid therapy, monitoring, and hands-on interventions, this talk will highlight the critical role veterinary nurses play in turning the tide for sick, shocked, and septic patients.

20 Ways to Save a Life: Kirby’s Rule in Action

Kirby’s Rule of 20 is more than just a checklist—it’s one of the most effective tools for managing complex cases and saving lives. In this session, we’ll explore how veterinary nurses can apply each parameter to guide daily ICU care, prioritize patient needs, and advocate for the critically ill. Through real-world examples and actionable takeaways, we’ll bring all 20 concepts to life—helping technicians approach every case with confidence, clarity, and clinical intention.

The Utilization Gap: Why It’s Costing You Your Team

Veterinary nurses are trained to do so much more than hold patients and clean kennels—but underutilization continues to plague our profession. In this candid session, we’ll explore how poor utilization impacts team morale, patient care, and hospital efficiency—and what we can do about it. Whether you’re a veterinary nurse looking to advocate for your role or a leader ready to rethink your staffing model, you’ll leave with practical strategies to bridge the gap and build a stronger, more sustainable team.

Brandie Johnson, RVT, LVT, is the Training & Education Coordinator at Dogs and Cats Emergency and Specialty, where she transforms complex clinical concepts into practical, digestible education. She also serves as the co-Training Coordinator for a team of 40+ veterinary nurses across seven specialties, supporting growth, mentorship, and clinical excellence at every level.

Known for her dedication to technician development (and her ever-growing collection of flashcards), Brandie’s approach blends structure with strategy—and just enough fun to keep learning memorable.

She began her career in emergency medicine before even graduating from technician school, working three jobs and proving early on that a license isn't just a piece of paper—it’s a foundation for meaningful impact. Today, she designs training programs, builds protocols, and leads CE sessions that make sense and make a difference.

She is a proud member of NAVTA, AVTE, AVHTM, and MDVMA, advocating for technician utilization, credential recognition, and education that resonates in real-world practice.

Outside of work, Brandie has spent 12 years fostering pets and is deeply committed to helping animals find their forever homes—sometimes discovering that they’re already in hers. She can often be found snuggling with one of her furry family members, coffee in hand, surrounded by study notes and a dog or cat who thinks they’re helping.