2026 Summer Conference Speakers

Dr. Elizabeth Arthur

Biography:

Session Descriptions:
Mass Removals:  Just a Little Tension
Practical strategies and surgical tips for evaluating and removing masses, including focus on surgical planning and technique, drain placement, and management of tension.
Mass Removals:  No Tension, Second Intention
Treatment of masses affecting the distal limb: primary closure is often not possible, and mass removal followed by second intention healing is an effective approach to many of these cases.
Brachycephalics:  Preventing Dyspneic Crises
Brachycephalic pets’ respiratory health is inherently compromised, and many are at risk of dyspneic crises during times of stress, including veterinary visits.  We’ll cover strategies for minimizing the risk of dyspneic episodes overall, as well as identifying high risk patients and working toward client education.
Brachycephalics:  Treating Dyspneic Crises
The ever-rising popularity of brachycephalic pets with flatter faces and more compromised airways means that anyone in clinical practice may be faced with a patient in crisis.  Immediate evaluation and emergency intervention including intubation, nares & soft palate surgery, and emergency tracheostomy will be discussed.  

---

Dr. Jane Brunt

Biography:
Coming soon!

Session Description:
Cats, the NOW Opportunity in Veterinary Medicine
Feline Diabetes - The Rest of the Story
 

---

 

Dr. Harry Cridge

Biography:
Dr. Harry Cridge is a dual American (ACVIM) and European (ECVIM) board-certified specialist in small animal internal medicine. He graduated from University College Dublin with a bachelor's degree in veterinary medicine before moving to the United States to complete a rotating internship and residency in small animal internal medicine at Mississippi State University, where he also earned a Master of Science degree focused on hematology and immunology. Dr. Cridge’s current clinical and research interests focus on gastroenterology and disorders of the exocrine pancreas. Indeed, he is one of only a handful of veterinarians recognized by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons as a Specialist in Small Animal Medicine (Gastroenterology). A subject matter expert on pancreatitis and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), he routinely lectures internationally and publishes extensively in these areas. He also serves as senior editor of an upcoming textbook focusing on disorders of the liver, exocrine pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract in dogs and cats. He currently serves as an Associate Professor of Small Animal Internal Medicine at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Session Description:
Practical Management of Acute Diarrhea in Dogs - This course reviews practical approaches to managing acute diarrhea in dogs with an emphasis on the use of probiotics and fiber supplementation. Participants will learn when to consider these therapies and what outcomes to expect in general practice. The session highlights current evidence, clinical recommendations, and real-world case applications

Tackling Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency - In this seminar we will review the causes, clinical signs, diagnosis, and management of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). The session highlights current evidence, clinical recommendations, and real-world case applications

Approach to IMHA in Dogs - This session provides a practical, evidence-based approach to diagnosing and managing IMHA in dogs. Participants will review current diagnostic criteria, treatment protocols, monitoring strategies, and prognostic indicators.

Approach to ITP in Dogs - This session focuses on the diagnosis and management of ITP and other common bleeding disorders in dogs. Emphasis is placed on clinical recognition, diagnostic testing, treatment selection, and follow-up care.

---

 

Dr. Jen Reukauf

Biography:
Dr. Jen Reukauf, is an exotic animal and emergency veterinarian currently working at the Emergency Animal Hospital of Ellicott City in Ellicott City, MD. She earned her VMD from the
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, entered clinical practice after graduation, and has spent the past several years focused on non-traditional companion animals. Through mentorship, continuing education, and dedicated hands-on experience, she has built confidence managing a wide variety of cases, from routine wellness visits to complex medical and surgical presentations. Dr. Reukauf is passionate about supporting fellow veterinary professionals who want to see more exotics in practice, with the goal of making exotic animal medicine more approachable, collaborative, and widely accessible. She enjoys speaking with students and colleagues about building a career in exotics, discussing cases, and sharing resources that have helped her grow in her early career. Outside of the hospital, Dr. Reukauf enjoys many creative hobbies and spending time with her two cats, her Solomon Island skink, and a recently adopted senior rabbit.

Session Description:
History, Husbandry, and Handling of Exotic Companion Animals: An Introduction for the Veterinary Technician
This two-hour session offers a thorough introduction to the care and handling of the most common exotic companion animal species, organized by group - small mammals, birds, and reptiles - with a brief look at amphibians and aquatics if time allows. The focus will be on practical, day-one skills: taking a meaningful patient history, recognizing triage concerns, and handling these species safely and confidently when they walk through your clinic door. Resources for husbandry information and further learning will also be provided.
 

---

 

Elizabeth Faux 

Biography:
Elizabeth has had a passion for animals from an early age, leading to a diverse career in veterinary medicine. With experience in general practice, emergency care, surgery, education, and practice management, she developed a strong affinity for emergency medicine, where she has dedicated her career ever since. Elizabeth became a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) in 2010 and achieved Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) in 2018. Committed to lifelong learning, she actively mentors fellow veterinary technicians and nurses, sharing knowledge and skills to foster a supportive and educated community within the field.

Session Description:
A Veterinary Technicians Guide to Fluid Therapy
Fluid therapy is a part of our daily patient care and treatment plans as veterinary technicians and nurses. Developing an understanding of this important modality is essential. This lecture will cover an introduction to fluid therapy for veterinary technicians, nurses, and assistants including: fluid dynamics within the body, creating a fluid plan for our patients, and specialized fluid therapy considerations. After attending this lecture you should have a basic understanding of fluid dynamics in the body and how fluid deficits can impact your patients. You will be able to confidently assist in creating a fluid plan tailored to your patients taking into consideration their specific disease processes or procedures.

The Art of Being Prepared: Stabilizing the Emergent Patient
No one can predict when an emergent patient will present or when a stable patient will decompensate. As veterinary technicians and nurses we must be prepared for anything at any time. This lecture will cover the assessment and initial treatments of emergent patients. There will be a review of fluid therapy and specific applications for disease processes. Lastly we will review preparation tips and review specific case examples to utilize these new skills. After this lecture you should have the confidence to assess emergent patients and assist in creating initial stabilization plans. You will be able to confidently identify emergent patients and potentially emergent patients with ease.
 

---

 

Simone Conwell

Biography:
Simone Conwell started in veterinary medicine in 2008 working as an assistant in a mixed ER - general practice hospital before delving into histology, microscopy, and the world of research. In 2012, Conwell went into a general practice hospital and moved to Tennessee, where she became a licensed technician in 2018. After realizing she missed emergency and really hated doing dentals, Conwell returned to Maryland in 2019 as a critical care tech at a specialty hospital. She became a RECOVER certified instructor just in time for the world to shut down in 2020, and started working towards a veterinary technician specialty in emergency and critical care. Conwell became a Veterinary Technician Specialist (ECC) last year and is still adjusting to the fact that having more letters just means your imposter syndrome is worse than ever. In her spare time, Conwell enjoys spending time amused by her cats, none of whom respect personal space, and all of whom are weird. She also reads and sometimes writes textbooks with friends.

Session Description:
The Big Ouch: Pancreatitis - a brief discussion of the pathophysiology of pancreatitis followed by treatments, when to transfer to ER, panoquel, and a discussion of the technician's role in treatment.

Beyond Vomiting: AHDS - defining AHDS, discussion of treatment and how quickly it can become serious, how it can be anaphylaxis in disguise, and the technician's role in treatment.
 

---

 

Dr. Inshil Kim

Biography: Session Description:
Dental Radiology and Pathology for Dogs and Cats
We will review the anatomy and terminology of the dogs and cats' mouth/teeth and learn how to position the patient and dental radiograph sensors to take good dental radiographs. The session will conclude with a few common pathologies found in dentistry using dental radiographs.

---

 

Dr. Matt Benedick

Biography:
Dr. Matt Benedick earned his DVM from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (VMRCVM) in 2011. He began his career in general practice, with a focus on surgery and dentistry, before gaining valuable experience in emergency and urgent care, eventually helping to establish one of the first veterinary urgent care practices in the U.S.
Session Description:
What is a Dental Emergency?
Join us for an hour lecture on Emergency presentations of Dental/Oral and Maxillofacial diseases and conditions - "Dental Emergency!...?" Featuring common presentations, differentials, practical takeaways and case examples.
 

---

 

Dr. Rachel Lisankis & Dr. Anthony Lisankis

Biographies:
Dr. Rachel Lisankis is a veterinary ophthalmologist practicing in Annapolis, Maryland at Eye Care For Animals - Defense Highway. She grew up in Rockville, Maryland and received her undergraduate degree from Harvard University. She attended veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania, followed by a small animal rotating internship at the Animal Medical Center and an ophthalmology internship at Long Island Veterinary Specialists. She then completed her residency in ophthalmology at Iowa State University, and became a board-certified Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists in 2018. She works in Annapolis with her husband, Anthony Lisankis, who is also a veterinary ophthalmologist, and they have three young sons. 

Dr. Anthony Lisankis is a veterinary ophthalmologist practicing in Annapolis, Maryland at Eye Care For Animals - Defense Highway. He is originally from Southern California. He spent five years in the US Army prior to becoming a veterinarian. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA and a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in Ames, IA. Following graduation, Dr. Lisankis reentered the US Army as a Veterinary Corps Officer where he completed a small animal medicine and surgery internship at Fort Bragg, NC. He then spent the next three years as the Post Veterinarian for Naval Station Great Lakes outside of Chicago, IL providing care for Working Dogs and preventive medicine for the Post. Dr. Lisankis completed a residency in ophthalmology with Eye Care for Animals and became a board-certified Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists in 2023. He works in Annapolis with his wife, Rachel Lisankis, who is also a veterinary ophthalmologist, and they have three young sons.

Session Description:
Does My Dog Need Glasses? The Optics of Vision in Dogs
This lecture offers a clinically relevant overview of how dogs see the world, presented from the perspective of a veterinary ophthalmologist. The session will review the canine visual pathway, the principles of light refraction within the eye, and key features of retinal anatomy. Attendees will learn how factors such as field of view, light sensitivity, visual acuity, and color perception influence vision in dogs. The lecture will conclude with a discussion of refractive errors in dogs and their clinical significance, providing veterinarians with a practical framework for understanding canine visual function and addressing common client questions.

Treating Glaucoma: A High-Pressure Situation
This lecture provides a practical overview of glaucoma in veterinary patients, from pathophysiology to clinical management. This lecture will review aqueous humor dynamics and the mechanisms underlying primary, secondary, congenital, and feline glaucoma. Clinical signs, diagnostic strategies, and current medical and surgical treatment options will be discussed, followed by a case example that highlights decision-making in the management of this vision-threatening disease.

---

Dr. Sarah Lynch

Biography:
Dr. Lynch is an emergency veterinarian and diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, specializing in canine and feline medicine. Her special interests include cardiology and critical care medicine, and she is passionate about fostering a healthy and collaborative environment for the current and future generations of veterinary professionals. 

Session Description:
From Strip to Strategy: ECG Emergencies Made Practical
From intimidating ECG strips to high-stakes rhythm management, this lecture focuses on making the hard stuff doable. Using clear patterns, standardized tips, and real-world examples, we’ll demystify ECG interpretation and focus on identifying rhythms that require action—and those that don’t. Designed for both veterinarians and technicians, this session prioritizes confidence, consistency, and practical clinical decision-making.
Are We Still Doing This? Fluid Therapy Updates You Need to Know
Fluid therapy is constantly evolving, and outdated habits can be hard to break. This lecture reviews key updates from the latest AAHA fluid therapy guidelines, translating evidence-based recommendations into practical, day-to-day clinical decision-making. Designed for both veterinarians and technicians, the session focuses on fluid selection, dosing, monitoring, and teamwork to improve patient outcomes.
 

---

Dr. Bobbie Mammato 

Biography:
Dr. Bobbie Mammato is Chief Medical Officer at the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS), where she has worked since 2007. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Cornell University and received training in emergency and critical care during an internship in Wisconsin. She later earned a Masters in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University. Bobbie was the first veterinarian at BARCS, where she and her medical team treat more than 12,000 homeless animals per year. In addition to the animals directly under her team’s care, she is also responsible for up to 600 animals at any given time in BARCS’ Foster Care Program. Dr. Mammato has seen significant change and growth during her tenure at BARCS. When she first arrived at BARCS 19 years ago, the save rate was less than 10%. It is now 90%. Under her leadership, the medical programs at BARCS were developed and have grown successfully year after year.

Michelle Markward

Biography:
With over 13 years of experience in animal welfare and a decade dedicated to veterinary medicine, Michelle Markward brings a comprehensive and compassionate perspective to the field. Her professional journey is defined by a specialized interest in exotics and shelter medicine, where she focuses on the unique clinical needs of non-traditional species and the complexities of herd health. Complementing her clinical background, Markward holds a Master’s degree with a focus on feline and canine nutrition and behavior, allowing her to bridge the gap between physical wellness and psychological health. At home, her passion for diverse species is reflected in a busy household shared with a dog, three cats, four reptiles, and four frogs.

Session Description:
The Medicine of Yes: Navigating the Reality of an Open-Admission, Urban Animal Shelter
 

---

 

Dr. Dayna Middlestead

Biography:
Dr. Dayna Middlestead is a small animal surgeon with the Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialist, Hunt Valley location. She earned her DVM from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and completed her clinical training at the University of Missouri in 2015. She then pursued advanced training with a small animal medicine and surgery internship at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital of the Carolinas, followed by a surgical internship and three-year surgical residency with Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists, which she completed in 2020. Dr. Middlestead is also certified to perform the PennHIP procedure.

Session Description:
Gastrointestinal Surgery in Small Animal Practice: Practical Approaches to Common Surgical GI diseases in Dog and Cats
Beyond Traditional Hip Radiographs: The Role of PennHIP in Early Canine Hip Dysplasia Screening
 

---

 

Dr. Jonathan Moyle

Biography:
Dr. Jonathan “Jon” Moyle is the Extension Poultry Specialist for the University of Maryland. He attended Brigham Young University where he received his B.S. in Animal Science. Afterwards, he worked for 15 years, during which time he managed a turkey farm and then owned and operated a broiler breeder farm, before returning to the University of Arkansas were he got his M.S. and Ph.D. in Poultry Science. After completion of his Ph.D. he served a Post-doc position with the USDA-ARS, in Fayetteville AR before joining the University of Maryland extension. His previous research outreach has included reproductive management and behavior in broiler breeders, improving organic and free-range poultry production, along with looking for natural compounds that can be used to help growers prevent and control disease. His current position involves educating growers through classes and other media, as well as conducting on farm research to help growers improve production, sustainability and bird well-being. A large part of his programming involves assisting growers to comply with and understand government regulations. Additionally, he is currently looking at ways to help growers improve nutrient management, farm management, and bio-security. He has also worked on over 35 international projects through Farmer-to-Farmer and other organizations assisting farmers in various parts of the world.

Session Description:
Introduction to Poultry Husbandry
Poultry husbandry/anatomy and common diseases/treatments for our veterinarians/technicians to be able to
expand their practice to small flock producers
 

---

 

Dr. Renee Rucinsky

Biography:
Dr. Renee Rucinsky is a graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary medicine, and is in private feline specialty practice in Queenstown, Maryland. In addition to her regular practice, she also owns a radioactive iodine treatment facility for hyperthyroid cats. For many years she’s been an active participant and contributor to numerous national guidelines, including ones for diabetes, thyroid disease, feline nursing care, and feline endocrinopathies. She is a frequent lecturer, and enjoys making difficult feline topics more approachable. Dr. Rucinsky is a past president of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, and is a recipient of the prestigious Craig Datz Excellence in Leadership Award. When not working, Dr. R can be found hiking with her dog, camping, mountain biking, or doing yard work. Overall, she is very tired.

Session Description:
Cats, the NOW Opportunity in Veterinary Medicine
Feline Infectious Peritonitis - An Update
Everyone's Least Favorite Appointment - This Cat is Peeing Outside the Box

 

---

 

Dr. Tanya Tag

Biography:

Session Description:
Anaphylaxis vs. Allergic Reaction
GP approach to stabilizing pets for transfer to an ER
 

---

 

Hannah Thompson-Weeman

Biography:

Session Description:
Handling the Heat: Social Media, Activism, and Reputation Management in Veterinary Medicine
Today’s veterinarians are not only animal health experts. You’re also navigating online conversations that can quickly turn contentious. Whether it’s a negative client review, criticism from other professionals, or broader activism-driven narratives, knowing how to respond can make all the difference. This session will provide actionable guidance on managing social media challenges, responding to criticism with confidence, and protecting your practice’s reputation. Attendees will also explore how larger issues, including activism and legislation, can shape online discourse and how to stay informed and prepared without getting pulled into unproductive conflict.
 

---

 

Dr. Cooper Williams

Biography:
Dr. Cooper Williams grew up in Cecil County Maryland where he learned to play polo and train polo ponies with his family. He ultimately obtained a five goal rating and played professionally for five years. In 1984 he graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. He accepted a post graduate internship at Delaware Equine Center, where he developed their ultrasound imaging program. In 1987 he moved to Maryland where he worked for two years at Maryland Equine Center, also developing their ultrasound imaging program. In 1989 Dr. Williams started his own practice, focusing on diagnostics and sports medicine in equine athletes. After 3 years of rigorous study, learning in depth about advanced diagnostic imaging, Dr. Williams passed his examination and was certified by the International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology (ISELP) in 2009 and has continued as a certified instructor with ISELP, teaching other equine veterinarians all over the world. In August 2014, Dr Williams successfully passed his examination and is officially a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, continuing on as an active committee member. In 2017, Dr. Williams along with his associate Dr. Magda Stewart started Equine Sports Medicine of Maryland, an extensive lameness, regenerative medicine, rehabilitation, and imaging consultation practice. They also actively perform field research on a variety of sports medicine topics. He is an active lecturing member of the High-Performance Equine Sports Medicine Group (now IGNITE). Dr. Williams is also one of the founding members of the Equine Spine Initiative, an international group formed in 2022 by Dr. Kevin Haussler focused on improving our understanding of the Equine Spine. He continues as a member of their Board of Directors. He was an early orthobiologic researcher, specifically in the use of extracellular matrices and was on the veterinary advisory board for ACell, Inc., a tissue engineering company. Dr. Williams actively lectures on a variety of sports medicine topics and teaches hands on ultrasound imaging and “whole horse” examination courses worldwide. Cooper is married to his best friend and life mate Trish. Trish and Cooper have two daughters and reside on a small farm in Hampstead, MD. In their spare time Cooper and Trish enjoy their farm and spending time with family and friends.

Session Description:
Equine Hindlimb-Clinical Examination and Imaging From The Stifle Through The Foot
How To Approach The Equine Pelvic Patient- Clinical Examination, Imaging, and Treatment Of The Equine Pelvis

---

Dr. Justin Sobota

Biography:
Justin was raised on a farm in Pennsylvania where he developed his love of the outdoors and the agricultural community. He attended Penn State University for undergraduate studies (Animal Bioscience) and developed a passion for horses. He attended the University of Florida for graduate school and earned degrees in both animal nutrition and business. After graduate school, he worked for Buckeye Nutrition and Progressive Nutrition as a nutrition consultant. He then returned to the University of Florida for veterinary school and afterwards completed an internship at Woodside Equine Clinic in Ashland, VA prior to starting his ambulatory practice, South Mountain Equine in Middletown, MD in 2009. He completed his animal chiropractic certification in 2012 and completed his acupuncture training in 2015. He has also been a testing veterinarian for the USEF and FEI. Socially, he has enjoyed organized veterinary medicine and is the past President of the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association.

​Session Description:
Axial Skeleton: Lumbar & Thoracic Conditions
Pre-purchase Examinations

---

Dr. Antonio Gonzalez Oliver

Biography:
Dr. Antonio Gonzalez Oliver hails from Puerto Rico and graduated from the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2015. He pursued a rotating internship after graduation. After a year and a half working as an emergency veterinarian, he switched to general practice for several years. During that time, he developed a passion for nutrition and worked to bring that knowledge to his patients. Dr. Gonzalez Oliver joined Purina in 2024 and worked to pursue his passion for nutrition education ever since. Dr. Gonzalez Oliver lives in the Triad in North Carolina with his wife, son, and two cats. At home, he likes to draw, paint miniatures, read, and play chess.

​Session Description:
Nutritional Management of Atopy & Food Allergy in Dogs & Cats (How to diagnose and manage atopy and food allergy)

---

Dr. Gay Smith

Biography:
Coming Soon!

​Session Description:
Mental Wellbeing in Veterinary Medicine

---

Mary Schwartz

Biography:
Mary Schwartz has built a decade-long career in the veterinary industry rooted in hands-on clinical experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of how veterinary teams operate. She began her career in equine medicine before moving into small animal practice, where she progressed into technician leadership and management roles. Along the way, Mary became a Certified Veterinary Technician in the state of Florida and later served as Practice Manager for a five-doctor general practice, leading a team of 30 and overseeing day-to-day operations, staffing, and hospital performance. In 2021, Mary joined PetDesk, a technology platform used by more than 12,000 veterinary clinics to strengthen client relationships and improve access to care. Today, as Manager of Community Engagement and Advocacy, Mary serves as a bridge between veterinary teams and the technology designed to support them. She works closely with clinics, internal stakeholders, and industry partners to amplify the voice of veterinary professionals, surface real-world challenges, and advocate for solutions that genuinely improve workflows, communication, and the client experience. Drawing on her extensive clinical and operational background, Mary focuses on understanding the realities of life inside veterinary hospitals, from staffing and burnout to client communication and efficiency. Her work centers on building meaningful community connections, informing product and strategy through frontline insight, and helping veterinary teams reclaim time, reduce friction, and deliver high-quality care more sustainably.

​Session Description:
Stop Buying Tools. Start Buying Outcomes.
Veterinary medicine is increasingly shaped by technology—but with so many options available, practices often struggle to know which solutions will truly add value. This session will help practice leaders
strategically evaluate and select technology tools, integrations, and vendor partnerships that align with their long-term goals. Attendees will learn how to avoid “shiny object syndrome,” assess ROI, and create a scalable tech stack that supports efficiency, growth, and better patient care.

---

Brittany Wolfe

Biography:
I am a 2020 graduate of Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Practicing during the peak of COVID proved certain challenges as a new graduate and I found myself looking for something different. In 2021, I joined HomeVets, an in-home veterinary service in the Baltimore and Howard county area. As a partner and medical director, I have a passion for teaching and optimizing our business and patient care.

​Session Description:
Alarms, Artifacts, and Anesthesia: Troubleshooting Anesthesia Monitoring: A review of how anesthesia equipment works to help troubleshoot whether an abnormally is your machine or the patient.

From Clinic to Couchside: Mastering Veterinary House Calls: Step inside the world of veterinary house calls. A discussion about the benefits, obstacles, and day-to-day realities of
mobile practice, helping you decide whether taking veterinary medicine from the clinic to the couchside is right for you.

---

Dr. Ashley Nichols

Biography:
Dr. Ashley I. Nichols DVM, is currently the lead veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital Arundel Mills. Dr. Nichols has been involved with veterinary medicine since 2008, receiving their Bachelors in Veterinary Technology in 2011 from Becker College in Massachusetts. They graduated from Ross University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2015, after spending their clinical year at Oklahoma State University. They have been practicing in Maryland since joining Banfield in June of 2016. Dr. Nichols is passionate about high quality attainable
small animal medicine, leading them to attain multiple certifications and striving to become a diplomat of the AVBP. Outside of work Dr. Nichols has been very active with the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association (MDVMA). They have been Continuing Education Committee Chair since Fall of 2020, President 2023-2024, and currently a director at large on the board. In the past few years Dr. Nichols on the behalf of Maryland veterinarians, they have testified in front of state legislators on several bills. In their spare time, Dr. Nichols loves working on their native garden with their 3 dogs (Stormaggedon 14yo Caribbean mutt, Josie 7yo rescue beagle, Pippa 6yo rescue beagle) and active 10yo cat Edgar.

​Session Description:
Amoxi-chillin': Updates in Antibiotic Stewardship and Usage
Overview of the small animal veterinarian's role in antibiotic stewardship including a review of recently updated guidelines to improve the veterinarian's selection of antimicrobials.

Disk-o Fever: Dancing Your Way Through Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing and Putting it to Practice
A refresher on antimicrobial sensitivity testing including updates in standards, how to interpret and case examples to apply interpretation in everyday practice.

---

Dr. Christine Klippen

Biography:

Dr. Christine Klippen earned her DVM in 2009 from Colorado State University and has practiced exclusively emergency medicine since graduation.  She became an American Board of Veterinary Practitioner Diplomate in Canine/Feline practice in 2021.  Dr. Klippen became a RECOVER certified instructor in 2019 and has certified veterinary professionals around the country since. She is currently working at Dogs and Cats Emergency and Specialty Hospital in Bowie, MD.

​Session Description:
Staying Alive or Another One Bites the Dust? RECOVER 2024 Updates
The Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) provides evidence-based CPR guidelines for veterinary practice that was originally published in 2012 and updated again in 2024.  This discussion will cover the principles of Basic Life Support, Advanced Life support, and team dynamics.