2011AdvocateIssue2

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FVMA 82nd Annual Conference Wrap up

Transcript of 2011AdvocateIssue2

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Welcome to Orlando and the FVMA’s 82nd Annual Conference. Our Program Chairman Dr. Ernie Godfrey, our Executive

Director Phil Hinkle, and the entire FVMA staff have put together a world-class, continuing education program at an exceptional value. An array of nationally-acclaimed speakers will be offering more than 229 hours of quality continuing education which will give participants the tools and resources needed to build a dynamic veterinary team that will be able to both compete and thrive in this challenging economy.

I encourage all of you to set aside time to attend two special events. The first is the FVMA’s Awards Ceremony on Friday evening. Each year, the FVMA honors outstanding individuals whose service has contributed significantly to advancing vet-erinary medicine or the status of the profession. The annual installation of the FVMA’s officers will follow the awards presentations. The second event is the General Assembly on Sunday morning. Our keynote speaker will be Dennis Snow who will be expounding on “Creating A World-Class Service Organization.” You are in for a real treat. I had the pleasure of hearing Dennis speak at an AVMA Leadership Conference in January. He had the crowd mesmerized with the sharing of his many experiences while employed at Disney World. He has invaluable insight into how to achieve your goals related to customer ser-vice, employee development and leadership.

The FVMA’s Legislative Committee, led by chairman Dr. Stephen Shores, has been very active these past few months in introducing legislative bills and monitoring more than 40 bills that could impact veterinary medicine and our livelihood in Florida.

The FVMA continues to be one of the leading veterinary associations in the country. This is because of the many dedicated veterinarians and individuals in our state who work tirelessly behind the scenes. The FVMA reuniting with the Florida Association of equine Practitioners, the many legislative triumphs, the FVMA becoming the testing and licens-ing body of the Certified Veterinary Assistants, and the opening of the new, state of the art, small animal teaching hospital at the University of Florida are just a few of the many positive accomplishments that have taken place in recent months. I would like to thank the Executive Board of the FVMA, the Board of Governors, the entire staff and our Executive Director Phil Hinkle for all of their hard work and support they have given me this year. It has been an honor, joy and a privilege to have served as your President. I especially cherish the many friendships I have developed through this experience. Thanks to all of you who have been such a blessing to Debbie and I.

Jan M. Hasse, DVM

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7131 Lake Ellenor Drive Orlando, Florida 32809

407.851.3862 phone 800.992.3862 toll free

407.240.3710 fax [email protected] www.fvma.org

OFFICERSDr. Jan M. Hasse

PresidentDr. James A. Kanzler

President-ElectDr. Richard B. Williams

TreasurerDr. Jerry P. Shank

Past PresidentMr. Philip J. Hinkle

Executive Director

DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVESDr. Charles P. Hall

District 1 - Big BendDr. Richard C. Sutliff

District 2 - NortheastDr. Jerry L. Rayburn

District 3 - CentralDr. Donald H. Morgan

District 4 - Tampa BayDr. Mark D. Dew

District 5 - Treasure CoastDr. Ronald W. Todd Jr. District 6 - South Florida

Dr. Richard M. Carpenter District 7 - Southwest

Dr. James M. Brechin District 8 - Northwest

Dr. Christine M. Storts District 9 - Space Coast

Dr. Ernest C. Godfrey AVMA Delegate

Dr. Stephen Shores AVMA Alternate Delegate

Ex Officio Dr. Glen F. Hoffsis, Dean

College of Veterinary Medicine

FVMA STAFFSandra P. Brooks

Accounting/Membership Director

Ralph E. Huber Industry Relations Director

Beni Jean Price Financial/Membership

CoordinatorAmber Coon

Executive Administrative AssistantBrenda Eggert Brader

Communications & Public Relations Director

Kevin R. White Multimedia Art & Design

Director Erin Pratt

Meeting & Events Coordinator

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IN THIS ISSUE 4 | Getting the Entire Staff

on the Same Feline Oral Inflammation Page

8 | Redefining Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury

10 | Dennis Snow Tells How Veterinarians can Benefit from Shining Customer Service

31 | Classified Advertisements

11 | Congratulations to Our 2011 Award Winners

12 | Distinguished Service Award

13 | Lifetime Achievement Award

14 | Veterinarian of the Year

15 | President’s Award

16 | Gold Star Awards

18 | CVT of the Year

19 | Team Member of the Year

20 | Community Service Award

21 | Pet Hero of the Year

22 | Industry Awards

2011 FVMA Awards

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Getting the Entire Staff on the Same Feline Oral Inflammation PageOral tissues are constantly exposed to pathogens

and antigenic proteins. In a healthy mouth, there is a balance between potential pathogens, the patient and its immune response. When an imbalance occurs, an inadequate or exaggerated host response leads to marked inflammation. In the past, any significant inflammation of the cat’s mouth was incorrectly termed stomatitis and/or faucitis. Stomatitis is still used, but only to describe widespread oral inflammation of the oral cavity compared to gingivitis or periodontitis with local-ized support loss, and mucositis.

It is important that everyone in the office that deals with cats and their owners understands what feline oral inflammation looks like, how it is diag-nosed and treated, and what it means to the patient.

Many causes are suspected, including genetics, environmental stress, diet, viral (calici, herpes) and bacterial (Bartonella spp.) infection. Although some cats that have stomatitis are positive for Bartonella spp., a cause-and-effect has not been proven in that there is already a high prevalence of antibody-positive cats within the healthy population due to flea exposure. Only calici virus has shown sig-nificant presence in those cats affected by chronic oropharangyeal inflammation (97%) compared to a controlled group of cats (25%).

History and Clinical SignsThe median age of affected cats is seven years.

Patient history often includes painful eating or anorexia causing weight loss, increased salivation, grinding of teeth, and face pawing. There may be resistance to opening the mouth when eating. The cat’s hair coat is also often unkempt secondary to poor self grooming due to oral pain. Bad breath and bleeding within the oral cavity are common.

In some cats, inflammation is apparent only around the back cheek teeth. Other cats show marked gingivitis and periodontitis 360 degrees around the incisors, canines, premolars and/or molars. Caudal stomatitis, incorrectly referred to in the past as faucitis, clinically appears as cobble-stone-like deep red colored lesions involving the back of the mouth near the tonsils.

Classification of oropharyngeal inflammation

In 2009, the American Veterinary Dental College adopted terminology based on anatomical presentation. (Fig. 1)

Gingivitis – inflammation of gingivaPeriodontitis – inflammation of non-gingival periodontal

tissues (i.e., the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone)Alveolar mucositis – inflammation of alveolar mucosaSublingual mucositis – inflammation of

mucosa on the floor of the mouthLabial/buccal mucositis – inflammation of lip/cheek mucosaCaudal mucositis – inflammation of mucosa of the

caudal oral cavity, bordered medially by the palato-glossal folds and fauces, dorsally by the hard and soft palate, and rostrally by alveolar and buccal mucosa

Stomatitis – inflammation of the mucous lining of any of the struc-tures in the mouth; in clinical use the term should be reserved to describe wide-spread oral inflammation (beyond gingivitis and periodontitis) that may also extend into submucosal tissues

Palatitis – inflammation of mucosa cover-ing the hard and/or soft palate

Glossitis – inflammation of mucosa of the dorsal and/or ventral tongue surface

Cheilitis – inflammation of the lip (including the mu-cocutaneous junction area and skin of the lip)

Osteomyelitis – inflammation of the bone and bone marrowTonsillitis – inflammation of the palatine tonsilPharyngitis – inflammation of the pharynx

Figure 1 Anatomy of the feline oral cavity

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Treatment of oropharyngeal inflammation

Plaque above and below the gum line appears to be the cause of inflammation. Removing teeth decreases the plaque burden. In cases of gingivitis inflammation commonly resolves once the teeth are cleaned and home care is instituted. In cases of stomatitis, the only treatment thus far shown to have long-term positive results without the need for further medication is tooth extraction (either full mouth or only the teeth behind the canines). The decision whether all teeth are extracted or only the premolars and molars is based on examina-tion findings. If marked inflammation, periodontal pockets or tooth resorption are noted around the canines and/or incisors, the affected teeth are also extracted. (Figs. 2-11)

Pain management in surgical patients is ac-complished with pre-anesthetic opioid administra-tion (buprenorphine), intraoperative local anesthet-ics (bupivacaine), and postoperative orally opioids given for 5-7 days.

Pre-surgical radiographs are important to evaluate root anatomy and pathology. Teeth with tooth resorption lesions are often undergoing root replacement resorption, making luxation and eleva-tion difficult. Pulverizing or atomizing the root within the alveolus with a water-cooled high-speed hand piece and dental bur may result in removing excess supporting bone, removing too little tooth or trauma to adjacent anatomy, and should be avoided.

In cases where oral inflammation persists for months despite extractions and laser care caudal to the canines, extraction of all remaining teeth and root fragments is indicated. (Figs. 10, 11)

If lesions persist despite complete teeth extrac-tion for months to years, the condition is termed refractory. Periodic laser thermoablation and medi-cation (Interferon) may be helpful in these cases.

Figure 1. Anatomy of the feline oral cavityFigure 2. Unilateral vestibular mucositis Figure 3. Resolution of unilateral mucositis following ex-

traction of the right mandibular cheek teethFigure 4. Periodontal disease involving the right mandibu-

lar first molar and maxillary fourth premolarFigure 5. Intraoral x-rays revealing bone loss

around the mandibular first molarFigure 6. Post op surgical appearance after extraction of the

mandibular first molar and maxillary fourth premolar

Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

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Conference Lectures & Wet Labs with Dr. Jan Bellows

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2011Creating Your Feline Dental Practice8:00 am – 8:50 am

Dental Diagnostics – Getting the Best Out of Your Periodontal Probe and X-ray9:00 am – 9:50 am

Feline Dental Radiology – It’s About Time 10:10 am – 11:00 am

Dental Case Brain Teasers – What To Do Next? 11:10 am – 12:00 pm

Remove, Repair, Recheck or Refer – How To Decide What To Do? 2:30 am – 3:20 pm

The Cat’s Red Mouth – Oropharyngeal Inflammation and Tooth Resorption4:20 am – 5:10 pm

SATURDAY, APRIL 30, 2011Canine Extraction Wet Lab8:00 am – 12:00 pm Additional Registration Fee $395.00

Feline Extraction Wet Lab1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Additional Registration Fee $395.00

To sign up for either of Saturday’s Wet Labs, see a staff member at the FVMA’s Registration Desk.

How can the veterinary team help?

Once every staff member knows what to look for, the receptionist who fields ques-tions can advise the client that a cat with signs related to inflammation needs to be examined by the veterinarian. The veterinary technician and assistant who, in many cases have the best, close-up view of each tooth during the cleaning process, must alert the veterinarian when ab-normalities are found. The veterinary staff also can demonstrate techniques for the prevention of plaque using tooth brushes, dental wipes, and cotton swab applicators. The team effort will translate into superior patient care.

Jan Bellows, DVM, is a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College, a Fellow of the Academy of

Veterinary Dentistry, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. ALL PETS DENTAL

is located in Weston, Florida 954-349-5800

Figure 7. Appearance six months post op Figure 8. Caudal Stomatitis Figure 9. Resolution of caudal stomatitis af-

ter full mouth extractionFigure 10. Refractory stomatitis despite full mouth extractionFigure 11. Stomatitis resolution after laser treatments

Figure 7

Figure 8 Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

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By Matthew Barnhart, DVM, MS, DACVS MedVet Medical and Cancer Centers for Pets

Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) disease is one of the most common

causes of lameness in dogs. Historically, CrCL disease has often been thought of as a “simple injury.” Consider the image of a dog being tackled roughly by a bigger dog; the excessive force applied to the healthy ligament (knee) exceeds its inherent breaking strength and partial or complete rupture occurs (Figure 1). This traumatic scenario makes perfect sense, but is actually a rare cause of CrCL rupture in dogs. Instead, canine CrCL disease most often occurs during very reasonable, normal activities and is a result of a number of anatomical, genetic, and environmental predisposing factors. Instead of just “an injury” CrCL rupture needs to be thought of as a disease caused by a series of ab-normal biologic and biomechanical events. These events interact in a complex “cause and effect” relationship that leads to stifle pain, lameness, and progressive osteoarthritis.

The CrCL is composed of an extracellu-lar matrix and a variety of different cell-types. Proteins, glycoproteins, and glycosaminoglycans compose the majority of the matrix while fibro-blasts are the predominate cell-type. CrCL fibers are 90% type-1 collagen and are bundled in a hierarchal organization of fiber bundles that are variably recruited throughout stifle range-of-mo-tion. Degeneration of the CrCL by way of fibrocar-tilagenous transformation occurs gradually and results metaplasia of ligamentacytes to chondro-cytes, matrix composition changes, and disorga-nization of fiber bundles. The degenerate CrCL is more easily overloaded/ injured and progressive disruption of the fiber bundles eventually produces a complete rupture of the ligament over a variable length of time. There is no single cause for these changes. Instead, a multifactoral disease process is responsible including inflammation, diminished extracellular matrix production, necrosis of cellu-

lar components, instability, abnormal joint contact areas, and muscle group underdevelopment/ over-development. There is not a clear understanding however of how/why these events occur/ persist. The question is much like what came first, the chicken or the egg? Do abnormal stifle biomechan-ics damage the ligament leading to degeneration and secondary joint changes or does a primary degeneration of the CrCL lead to abnormal biome-chanics? The answer currently remains elusive, but is likely a combination of the two.

Many risk factors have been determined or proposed to be associated with CrCL disease. Breed-type, familial history (i.e. a heritable trait), body condition, immune-mediated disease, joint incongruity, trauma, gender (females are more commonly affected than males), gonadal steril-ization, tibia width, tibial plateau angle, patella tendon angle, endocrine/ metabolic abnormalities, and imbalances of the dynamic stifle stabilizers (extensor and flexor muscles) are some of the many reported risk factors for CrCL disease. Studies sug-gest that 40-60% of dogs with CrCL disease will rupture the contralateral CrCL within their life-time. The more one knows about CrCL disease the clearer it becomes that its pathogenesis rivals that

Figure 1

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of other seemingly more complex joint diseases (elbow and hip dysplasia).

As expected with any complex disorder there is no single “best” treatment for CrCL disease. Dozens of surgical treatment protocols have been published over the years each with individual pros and cons. Many have fallen out of favor while others have grown more popular. Choosing the “right” procedure is not a simple task and many factors should be considered including patient age, body size and condition, general medical health, concurrent orthopedic and/or neurologic prob-lems, desired activity level of patient, personal experience/ training, duration of injury, degree of abnormal stifle mechanics, client’s financial capabilities, and stifle/ limb conformation. Here again there is no single answer even when con-sidering these factors. A patient-specific approach is the ideal treatment plan for CrCL disease. Extracapsular techniques (lateral fabella-tibial sutures, bone anchor suture, bone tunnel-based sutures [“Tight Rope-type”]) and osteotomy-based techniques (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy [Figure 2], tibial tuberosity advancement [Figure 3], tibial closing wedge ostectomy) should all be considered. Recent advances in material proper-ties and manufacturing capabilities may soon make direct replacement of ruptured CrCLs with “artificial ligaments” possible, opening up a whole new spectrum of treatment possibilities. The ideal treatment should have a low complication rate, minimal patient morbidity, reproduce/ maintain stifle mechanics as close to normal as possible, al-leviate stifle pain completely, and help curb further joint degeneration (osteoarthritis). Currently, we are better at achieving some of these ideals than others. The fact that postoperative medial menis-cal injury is one of the most common reasons for re-operation and osteoarthritis progression occurs regardless of the technique utilized means we still have work to do.

Figure 2

Figure 3

Conference Wet Labs with Dr. Matthew Barnhart

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2011Cruciate Repair – Securos Lateral Suture Technique With Calibrated Crimping System8:00 am – 12:00 pm Additional Registration Fee $395.001:00 pm – 5:00 pm (Repeat of am Session) Additional Registration Fee $395.00

SATURDAY, APRIL 30, 2011Interactive Theory And Method Of TTA Lecture & Wet Lab8:00 am – 4:00 pm Additional Registration Fee $550.00

SUNDAY, May 1, 2011Patella Luxation Repair Wet Lab9:00 am – 12:50 pm Additional Registration Fee $350.00

To sign-up for Conference Wet Labs, see a staff member at the FVMA’s Registration Desk.

References/Suggested Readings Cook JL. Cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs:

biology vs. biomechanics. Vet Surg 39;270:2010.Hayashi K et al. Histology of cranial cruciate ligament

rupture. In: Muir P (ed) Advances in The Cranial Cruciate Ligament. Wiley-Blackwell, Ames, 2010, p.45.

Rooster H et al. Morphology and function of the cruciate ligaments. In: Muir P (ed) Advances in The Cranial Cruciate Ligament. Wiley-Blackwell, Ames, 2010, p.5.

Pozzi A et al. Biomechanics of the normal and cranial cruciate ligament-deficient stifle. In: Muir P (ed) Advances in The Cranial Cruciate Ligament. Wiley-Blackwell, Ames, 2010, p.37.

Vasseur P. Stifle joint. In: Slatter (ed) Textbook of Small Animal Surgery. WB Saunders, Philadelphia, 2003, p.2090.

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By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

Dennis Snow Tells How Veterinarians can Benefit

from Shining Customer Service

The process for customer service, the selling of an image is the valuable

information Dennis Snow, worldwide speaker, consultant and former Walt Disney World executive will share with

his audience attending the keynote address on Sunday in the General Assembly at the FVMA’S 82nd Annual Conference.

Snow developed his passion for service excellence at the Walt Disney World Company, beginning his Disney career in 1979 as a frontline attractions operator. As he advanced through the company, Snow managed various operations areas throughout the park, learning and applying the skills it takes to run a world-class, service-driven organization.

Today, Snow is a full-time speaker, trainer and consultant who helps organizations achieve goals related to customer service, employee develop-ment and leadership. Some of his clients include American Express, Johns Hopkins Medicine, the American Hospital Association and Subway.

“I focus on the customer experience because it is the driver of loyalty,” Snow said. “Customers have more choices than ever – including not using your services at all. “While your technical and clini-cal skills may be excellent, I also need to feel good about the entire experience in order to be loyal and use more of your services. I call it an ‘everything speaks’ approach. Everything the customer sees, hears and touches impacts their experience.

“For everything that I talk about during the program, I will have a tool associated with it,” Snow said. “So you’ll not only hear the principles, you’ll walk away with tools for applying the principles.”

Snow has a long history of service with the Walt Disney World Company. He launched a divi-sion of the Disney Institute responsible for consult-ing with some of the world’s largest companies

including Exxon Mobil Corporation, AT&T and Coca-Cola Company. During this time, he pre-sented to audiences in diverse locations around the world including South Africa, Australia, Mexico, England and Argentina. This division quickly became the fastest growing venture of the Disney Institute and experienced repeat business of nearly 100 percent.

He spent several years with the Disney University teaching corporate philosophy and business practices to cast members and leader-ship team. While there, he coordinated the Disney traditions program which is universally recognized as a benchmark in corporate training.

His articles appear in a number of industry publications; he is a featured customer service expert on several business news-talk radio shows and has written two books.

“I was fortunate to attend a presentation by Dennis Snow at an AVMA conference in Chicago,” said FVMA President-Elect Dr. James Kanzler. “The lessons he learned while working for Disney are surprisingly very applicable to veterinary practice – it’s all about providing excellent service and creating client satisfaction. Mr. Snow manages to inform and entertain while revealing some of Disney’s secrets of success. Don’t miss this event; you will find it very rewarding.”

Dr. Jan Hasse, President of the FVMA, also found the information captivating and beneficial.

“Dennis Snow is one of the most entertaining and dynamic speakers I have ever heard,” Dr. Hasse said. “He has invaluable experience and insight into superior, customer-driven service because of his many years of working for the ‘Mouse.’ His exam-ples of the good, the bad and the ugly of running a business geared toward creating an experience for the customer are both entertaining and instructive. Our attendees are in for a real treat.”

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Team Member of the Year

Brandy Hardcastle

CVT of the Year

Danielle Mauragis

Pet Hero

Bella Mia with Debbie Huffer

Gold Star Award Honorees

FVMA Community Service Award Honorees

Dr. Richard S.Thompson

Dr. Laurie AnnWalmsley

Dr. Douglas J. SpikerDr. Thom A. SmithDr. Mary Smart

Dr. Jo Ann Daniels Dr. James D. Lutz Dr. Nadia McLean Dr. Loren T. Nations

Dr. Michael J. Pridgeon Dr. Linda Register

Dr. Ralph S. Wilhelm, Jr.

President’s Award

Dr. James E. Pennington

Distinguished Service Award

Dr. Jerry L. Rayburn

Veterinarian of the Year

Dr. Donald H. Morgan

Lifetime Achievement Award

Congratulations to Our 2011 Award Honorees

Carla Channell, DVMLisa Centonze, DVM

Cynda Crawford, DVM

May-Li Cuypers, DVMMadalyn (Lynn) Duffy, DVM

Steven J. Elliott, DVM

David F. Griffin, DVMR. Bruce Keene, DVM

Shannon Kennedy, DVM

Sarah K. Kirk, DVMJulie Levy, DVM

Tina B. Merritt, DVM

Timothy J. Porter, DVMKenneth Reeves, DVMTerry G. Spencer, DVM

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Distinguished Service Award

“It is humbling to think that your colleagues think enough of what you have done to honor you like this,” said Dr. Pennington. ‘‘It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award, probably the highest honor of my career.”

Dr. Pennington served as chairman of the FVMA membership committee for 17 years, helped to start the Industry Advisory Council of the FVMA, served as District 2 representative to the executive board from 1993-1998, served on the long-range planning committee, the University of Florida Veterinary School Hospital Advisory Committee (chaired by Colin Burrows, DVM) and the College Advisory Committee, served as Senior Veterinary Consultant to the FVMA through August 2010, was appointed to the Florida Animal Friends to read and grade grant applica-tions for sterilization of pets in nonprofit organizations and currently serves the FVMA on the Advisory Committee.

A 1969 graduate of Auburn University, Dr. Pennington joined the FVMA in 1976. He served the FVMA as president in 2002. After graduation, Dr. Pennington served three years in the mili-tary (U. S. Army Veterinary Corps) before joining Gainesville Animal Hospital. In 1975 Dr. Pennington started his own practice, a mobile mixed animal practice serving three counties. Approximately four years later Dr. Pennington built a veterinary hospital in Starke, where he practiced for more than 20 years. He sold his practice in 1999 and since that time has operated Fuller Veterinary in Melrose, working only part-time.

“I have always worked in a mixed animal practice in rural North Florida; I like the country and people in small towns,” Dr. Pennington said. “I grew up on a small farm in Hamilton County, I always enjoyed working with animals and always wanted to be a veterinarian as far back as I can remember. We had

hogs, a couple of milk cows, a mule and a variety of dogs and cats. I remember daddy saying as far back as when I was in the seventh or eighth grades, ‘He says he wants to be a veterinarian, but he will probably just farm’.

“I was not sure that I would make it, but that is what I always wanted to do,” Dr. Pennington said. “I had to work my way through all eight years of college, but I made it.”

Dr. Pennington said he has always been in a mixed practice and says, “ I have always done what ever walks through the door, including some exotics. Everybody deserves quality veterinary care.”

Dr. Pennington was nominated for this prestigious award by Dr. Bill Kyser, whom he first met as a pre-vet some 48 years ago. Dr. Pennington said, “without Dr. Kyser’s advice, I may not be where I am today.”

“His tireless effort to promote our profession, as well as the FVMA, is highly commendable,” said Dr. E. Howard Acree, who also nominated Dr. Pennington for the award. “Dr. Pennington drives more than 60 miles one way to our local meet-ing (the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society). With all he has accomplished and served, if anyone deserves this award, it’s Dr. Pennington.”

The Alachua County Veterinary Medical Association has also offered its support of Dr. Pennington for the award.

“He has been a valuable member of our professional community and we feel that he should be awarded this honor,” said Dr. Allison Hiers, ACVMA president.

Dr. Pennington was also nominated for the award by Dr. Richard Sutliff, FVMA Executive Board, District 2.

Dr. Pennington and his wife, Kathryn, reside in Melrose along with one family cat. He and his wife are the parents of a son and a daughter.

Dr. James E. Pennington

Dr. James E. Pennington, a member of the FVMA since January 1, 1976,

has served almost every capacity avail-able in the Florida Veterinary Medical Association. Because of his dedication to the organization for 35 years, his ability, knowledge and desire to share his many talents to help form and guide the FVMA, and for his dedication to the veterinary profession, the FVMA has bestowed upon Dr. Pennington the coveted Distinguished Service Award for 2011.

The Distinguished Service Award is presented for exceptional achievements and contributions by a member toward the advancement of veterinary medicine and the profession; having been perform-ing that service as an FVMA member for at least 15 years. A very special award, it is not presented every year.

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

12 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Donald H. Morgan has a long and impressive history of service with the

Florida Veterinary Medical Association and continues that involvement today serving on the FVMA Executive Board as the District 4 representative. The FVMA benefits from his drive and concern over the veterinary profession with his volunteering in legislative advocacy. Dr. Morgan visits legislators, is an avid and beneficial participant in the FVMA Legislative Action Days and volunteers to visit with legislators in his home district.

Dr. Morgan volunteers and is very supportive of the Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Association where he has been a member for 44 years. Other professional organizations in which he has lengthy memberships are the American Veterinary Medical Association (47 years) and the American Animal Hospital Association (34 years).

Civic and community activities hold a special place in his busy life as he holds offices in the Pinellas Animal Foundation, the Greater Largo Chamber of Commerce, where he has served as chairman and on the Board of Directors for 10 years, the Largo Jaycees where he is past president for two terms; on the Largo Medical Center Board of Trustees for six years and chairman for three years, and the Largo Library Capital Campaign steering com-mittee. He has been named Citizen of the Year for the city of Largo by the Greater Largo Chamber in 1977.

“I grew up on a farm in Alabama with a father who was a graduate in animal husbandry and agriculture and brother who was a veterinarian,” Dr. Morgan said. “So it was kind of a family thing. I went to

Auburn on a scholarship and graduated as a veterinarian in 1964.”

After graduation, he became an Air Force veterinarian from 1964-67 and came to Florida in 1967 “and I have been here ever since,” he said. “I joined Bluffs Animal Hospital in 1971 and became a partner in 1972 and sold the practice two years ago to two younger associates.” Dr. Morgan loves being at the clinic and still practices there two days a week.

Nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award by Dr. Ernest Godfrey, Dr. Morgan feels the veterinary profession has been very good to him. “I am very happy and thankful for receiving this award.” Dr. Morgan said. “I feel that being a veterinarian has really provided a lot of special opportunities in my life for which I am very grateful. Giving back to my community has always been a life-long career. I have been involved with my church and organizational work all my life”.

His other interests include a love of singing and being in his church choir, in a quartet and performing solos.

“I also like to swim and I do a lot of gardening of flowers and outdoor work,” Dr. Morgan said. “I like spending time with the grandchildren and traveling to see them.”

He and his wife, Dianne, have five children and eight grandchildren all of which add to the enjoyment and fulfill-ment of their lives.

Dr. Donald H. Morgan

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Veterinarian of the Year

Florida Veterinary Medical Association Executive Board since 2004 and served on the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Admissions Committee the past three years. He is now serving on the College Advisory Committee. During this time, he has given his free time and sacrificed time away from his practice to help review and select students who will set the future course of the profession in Florida.”

Dr. Rayburn has participated in the FVMA-sponsored leadership training conferences and is a past recipient of the FVMA Gold Star Award in 2007.

As an FVMA Executive Board representative, District 3, Dr. Rayburn is a “constant voice in our local VMA meetings, reminding all the members of the need to be involved in the legislative processes that govern our practices and profession,” Dr. Presnell said. “He has set the example for all of us by being a regular participant in the Legislative Action Days in Tallahassee and in helping the FVMA develop relationships with Central Florida political leaders.”

Pursuing additional political con-tacts, Dr. Rayburn has forged ahead to create relationships with local and county commissioners to help develop practical guidelines for the pet-owning commu-nity and for the practices in his district. Dr. Rayburn has also helped maintain open lines of communication with the local animal control services as that office works to control the pet overpopulation and abandonment issues.

Civic-minded, Dr. Rayburn has been a volunteer and supporter of the Humane Society of Polk County since 1994.

“He has donated his surgical and medical skills assisting in the local SNIP (Spay, Neuter Inoculate Program) of the Humane Society and has offered his services for pets in need of emergency vet-erinary care through the Second Chance

program of the Humane Society,” Dr. Presnell said.

Through his volunteering with the Humane Society, Dr. Rayburn has pro-vided valuable services.

“Not only does Dr. Rayburn dedicate his time and talents by providing quality surgical sterilizations and vaccinations for the pets of needy families, he also donates his supplies as well,” said Lisa H. Baker, Humane Society Executive Director. “He helps us with fund-raising endeavors and with micro-chipping community pets, teaching pet owners the importance of proper identification.”

Since 1994, Dr. Rayburn has sup-ported the Ridge Veterinary Medical Society serving as president and has been its treasurer since 2000.

He shares a philosophy of life.“I am convinced you get out of life

what you put into it,” Dr. Rayburn said. “If you don’t put the effort forth, you will not get anything out of it. If you find opportunity in the middle of difficulty, you are way ahead of the game. Without my dedicated and hardworking staff, I couldn’t do what I do. They hold the fort down to allow me to go out and do the things I do.

“I am very humbled and honored by this award,” Dr. Rayburn said.”You work hard and when you get recognition by your peers, it is a great thing. I am going to accept this award for those who get up every day and face a client two feet across an exam table or the veterinarian who gets up at 2 a.m. to care for a horse with colic – those are the unsung heroes.”

A 1982 graduate of Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, he owns the Carter Animal Hospital in Winter Haven. He and his wife, Cathy, have been married for 37 years and they have three grown sons. They currently share their home with two Labrador retrievers and four cats.

Dr. Jerry L. Rayburn

Dr. Jerry L. Rayburn has been named Florida Veterinary Medical

Association Veterinarian of the Year for 2011 by his fellow colleagues. Since the beginning of his career, Dr. Rayburn has volunteered his talents and professional veterinary services to others – agencies, organizations and the FVMA.

The Veterinarian of the Year Award is presented to a member for distinguished and unselfish dedicated service to the Association for the advancement of veteri-nary medicine and the profession.

“What sets Dr. Rayburn apart is the unselfish giving of his time to serve the veterinary profession,” said Dr. Mark Presnell who nominated Dr. Rayburn for the award. “He has served on the

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

14 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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President’s Award

Dr. Ralph S. Wilhelm Jr., FVMA President from 1976 to 1977 and

native of Sarasota, will be presented, post-humously, the FVMA’s President’s Award. Given by FVMA President Jan Hasse and the Executive Board, the President’s Award is a special recognition to honor his dedication and service to the veteri-nary profession and to his community.

The late Dr. Wilhelm received his doctor of veterinary medicine degree from Auburn University in 1960 and opened the Fruitville Veterinary Clinic in Sarasota in April of 1961, practicing vet-erinary medicine for more than 30 years.

He served as FVMA President from 1976 to 1977, was president of the Southwest Florida Veterinary Medical Association, and was instrumental in helping to establish the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Wilhelm was awarded FVMA Veterinarian of the Year in 1981 and received the FVMA Distinguished Service award in 1995. He served as the American Veterinary Medical Association Delegate for Florida and was later elected Vice President of the AVMA serving from 1993-1995.

“Dr. Wilhelm loved veterinary medi-cine and felt organized veterinary medi-cine was a priority,” said Dr. Jan Hasse, FVMA President who nominated the late veterinarian for the honor. “Dr. Wilhelm hired me right out of Oklahoma State Veterinary School in 1977. He was much more than my boss, he was my mentor and my friend. He taught me how to be a professional, and most of all, he taught me that the veterinarian down the street was my colleague and not my competitor.”

Dr. Wilhelm was instrumental and involved in founding the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. Always concerned about the future of veterinary medicine, he was a mentor to many students. His involvement at UF touched other areas as he was a member of the President’s Council and the SHARE Council of the College of Agriculture.

Active within Florida, Dr. Wilhelm was appointed to several agricultural ad-visory boards. He was a member of state and national cattlemen’s associations. His retirement years were spent working on the land he loved developing a commercial cow-calf herd. He was active in his church serving in various capacities including serving as a deacon.

He and his wife, Peggy, who resides in Sarasota, have two sons, R. Sherman III and Mark Allan.Dr. Ralph S.  

Wilhelm, Jr.Recognized, Posthumously

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

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Gold Star Awards

Jo Ann Daniels, DVM

Dr. Jo Ann Daniels of Lutz serves her local community and county out-side of her veterinary practice. Being an active founding member of the Pasco Hernando Veterinary Medical Asso-ciation, she is current vice president and the association’s website webmas-ter. Dr. Daniels coordinated the Tampa Bay Disaster Medicine Symposium in

2008. As a member of Disaster Animal Response Teams, she is FEMA Incident Commander System certified and has worked with other veterinarians to organize the Tampa Bay Regional Disaster Symposium. Dr. Daniels has produced several ani-mal adopt-athon events in her area and currently coordinates first-responder training in pet CPR/First Aid for Pasco County Fire Rescue. She is “a pillar of professionalism within her region and is loved by colleagues as well as clients,” said Dr. Jeni-fer Chatfield who nominated Dr. Daniels for the award. “She is most certainly an asset for the veterinary profession and an ambassador for the industry.” Dr. Daniels is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

James D. Lutz, DVM

Dr. James D. Lutz has been actively involved with the SPCA Tampa Bay for more than 30 years, elected as president in November 2010. The SPCA Tampa Bay and Pinellas County Veterinary Medi-cal Association have enjoyed an extremely cooperative relationship over the years. The community’s veterinarians are involved and engaged with the SPCA in many ways,

including participating in the Friends of Family pets spay/neuter program, and the Beau’s Buddies program for reha-bilitation/adoption of special needs animals. Dr. Lutz is past president of the Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Associa-tion and Pinellas Animal Foundation. He has long-standing memberships in the FVMA, the AVMA and American Animal Hospital Association. A 1977 graduate of Michigan State Uni-versity, he owns and operates the Largo Veterinary Hospital, Inc. in Largo. Dr. Lutz was nominated by Dr. Donald Morgan.

Nadia McLean, DVM

Dr. Nadia McLean, a Class of 2000 graduate of the University of Florida Col-lege of Veterinary Medicine, is in her second year as president of the Hillsbor-ough County Veterinary Medical Society, previously serving as a board member. Active in the local veterinary community, “it is rare to have a young veterinarian

show such great leadership and ability in managing and advanc-ing the state of the local VMA,” said Dr. Arthur W. Simon who nominated her for the Gold Star Award. Dr. McLean has been a board member of the Hillsborough Animal Health Founda-tion (HAHF) for four years and is the current secretary. The HAHF has a prominent outreach program in the community and focuses on responsible animal ownership. Dr. McLean has played an active role in all the programs of the HAHF and HCVMS and “is a role model for the younger genera-tion of veterinarians,” Dr. Simon said. “She is most deserving of the Gold Star Award for her energetic and dedicated con-tributions to the advancement of veterinary medicine.”

Loren T. Nations, DVM, DABVP

Dr. Loren T. Nations has been an active member of the FVMA, AVMA and the Ridge Veterinary Medical Society for the past 20 years, currently serving as presi-dent of the RVMA for the 2010-2011 term. “ For the RVMS, Dr. Nations has revo-lutionized several of the administrative processes which have increased member-ship, dues collection and procured speakers

with sponsorships for advanced lecture topics for the group,” said Dr. John Maxwell IV, who nominated Nations for the Gold Star Award. “Dr. Nations has volunteered his time extensively at the SPCA of Polk County in the past and has always exhib-ited the caring and devotion for which our profession is known,” Dr. Maxwell said. In 2008, Dr. Nations began sponsoring a local veterinary technician organization that provides training and continuing education, at no cost, for technicians in the area. A 1991 graduate of the University of Florida College of Vet-erinary Medicine, Dr. Nations became board certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 1999, recertify-ing last year. He is owner and president of Veterinary Healthcare Associates in Winter Haven serving that Central Florida area with 24-hour emergency care since 2005 and as a referral and emergency critical care hospital. “His efforts in the Ridge VMA have improved relations with local animal control and enhanced the image of our profession in our local community,” said Dr. Jerry Rayburn, who also nominated Nations for the award.

  Gold Star Award recipients are FVMA members who have significantly contributed their time and energy to the FVMA or their local associations for the advancement of veterinary medicine. Many members have given time to community programs. To be eligible for the award, members must have been active in FVMA for at least the past three years.

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

16 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 1

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Michael J. Pridgeon, DVM

Dr. Michael J. Pridgeon of Tallahas-see served as the Florida Veterinary Medical Association board member, District 1, for three years and as a past treasurer of the Big Bend Veterinary Medical Association. A University of Florida College of Veterinary Medi-cine 1999 graduate, Dr. Pridgeon is vice president of the Westwood Animal Hos-

pital in Tallahassee. “Mike was an extremely hard worker for the FVMA when on the Executive Board and repre-sented our district to the utmost,” said Dr. C. Patrick Hall who nominated Dr. Pridgeon for the Gold Star Award.

Linda Register, DVM

Dr. Linda Register earned her DVM degree from the University of Florida in 1996 and acupuncture certification from the Chi Institute in 2009. “For 10 years she has been a regular participant in the popular radio program, ‘Talking Pets,’ broadcast every Saturday afternoon” said Dr. Arthur M. Simon who nominated Dr. Register for the Gold Star Award. “She

and the national syndicated co-host, John Patch, answer phone calls and provide a voice for the veterinary profession.” Dr. Register has been a board member, secretary and president of the Hillsborough Animal Health Foundation for the past six years. She also has been an active board member of the Hillsborough County Veterinary Medical Society, being a strong supporter and participant in the many programs sponsored by the organi-zation. “Linda Register is deserving of the Gold Star Award for her many years of selfless dedication and furthering the cause of veterinary medicine locally and nationally,” Dr. Simon said.

Mary Smart, DVM

Dr. Mary Smart has provided leader-ship to the Manatee County Veterinary Society for many years, being diligent in maintaining membership services and communication, said Dr. James A. Kanzler who nominated Dr. Smart for the Gold Star Award. Her orchestrated regularly scheduled meetings provide continuing education, speakers and forums for local

issues. “Through her efforts, the MCVS has grown and fostered good relations among local practitioners,” Dr. Kanzler said. “Mary is always upbeat, gracious and very professional,” said Dr. Denise Vondrasek who also nominated Dr. Smart for the award. Dr. Smart, 1985 graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, joined Westbay Animal Hospital in Bradenton in 1998. She is a member of the AVMA, FVMA and American Heartworm Society. She is also the president of the Manatee County Veterinary Society, a board member of the Hillsborough Animal Health Foundation, Hillsborough County Veterinary Medical Society, and the FVMA Veterinary Technician Career Development Committee. Her holistic medi-cine interests include behavior, nutriceuticals, western herbs and nutrition.

Thom A. Smith, DVM

Dr. Thom A. Smith is both past president and past secretary/treasurer of the Southwest Florida Veterinary Medical Association. “Most recently, he and his staff provided veterinary care for companion pets owned by the pets’ owners who were financially challenged by the economic re-cession,” said Dr. Jan Hasse who nominated Dr. Smith for the Gold Star Award.

Douglas J. Spiker, DVM

Dr. Douglas J. Spiker, co-owner of Bluffs Animal Hospital in Belleair Bluffs since 2009, has been nominated for a Gold Star Award by Dr. Donald Morgan. Dr. Spiker is a magna cum laude graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 2005, and became an associ-ate veterinarian at Bluffs Animal Hospital after graduation. His leadership positions

include president of the Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Association in 2010, a current member of the board of direc-tors for the Pinellas Animal Foundation and board of directors for the PCVMA from 2007-2009. Among his special interests include being a current mentor for Big Brothers, Big Sisters “Big Couple” since 2008 and community service projects.

Richard S. Thompson, DVM

Dr. Richard S. Thompson, new president of the Lake County Veterinary Medical Association, organized the first meeting of the LCVMA in three years, said Dr. Jerry Rayburn who nominated Dr. Thompson for the Gold Star award. “Dr. Thompson obtained a speaker, sponsor and venue for his local VMA,” Dr. Rayburn said. “He is excited about keeping the Lake

County VMA active and current and looks forward to working with the FVMA to provide local practitioners quality leader-ship.” Dr. Thompson is a 1978 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Laurie Ann Walmsley, DVM

Dr. Laurie Ann Walmsley, owner of the Ashton Animal Clinic in Sarasota, manages the surgical bus for the Animal Rescue Coalition that provides low cost spay/neuter for Sarasota County, said Dr. Jan Hasse who nominated Dr. Walmsley for the Gold Star Award. “She was instrumen-tal in providing veterinary care and shelter to hundreds of pets during the storms of

2004 and 2005,” Dr. Hasse said. Dr. Walmsley is a 1988 graduate of Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in Dominica, West Indies, and took an Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates internship at Oklahoma State University, School of Veterinary Medicine in 1989.

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CVT of the Year

Danielle M. Mauragis has been named the FVMA 2011 Certified Veterinary

Technician of the Year. A graduate of the St. Petersburg Junior College veterinary technician program in 1989, Ms. Mauragis started working at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in the Diagnostic Imaging Department in 1990.

The CVT of the Year Award recogniz-es the outstanding contributions made by a Certified Veterinary Technician to the overall success of the veterinary practice operated or staffed by an FVMA member veterinarian.

“If Danielle is going to do anything related to work, she is going to do an excellent job with a professional attitude and manner,” said Dr. Clifford R. Berry, professor and section chief, Diagnostic Imaging, University of Florida, who nom-inated Ms. Mauragis for the award. “She puts her heart and soul into her work. Danielle has faithfully served the Florida and national veterinary community by teaching the past 21 graduating profes-sional classes at the University of Florida, all aspects of the physics of diagnostic imaging, quality control of radiographs, positioning of small and large animal patients and radiation safety.”

Ms. Mauragis says she started out in college to be a dental hygienist, but a friend told her about an animal clinic that needed workers and she needed a position. That job changed her career path.

“A girl in the class was working at an animal hospital and they needed help in the emergency clinic,” Ms. Mauragis said. “She was going to the technician school to become a veterinary nurse. I said to her, wow, you can go to school to do that? I have always loved animals. I had horses, dogs and cats and everything when I was growing up. My goal then became to be a veterinarian and what I turned out to be is a veterinary nurse.”

According to Dr. Berry, Ms. Mauragis has three main goals in mind when taking radiographs of small and large animals.

Her first goal is always patient care and safety making sure the patient is taken care of whether a sedated orthopedic case or a critical case from ICU. Her second goal is radiation safety with student training. Third, she provides leadership skills in the area of ensuring high quality images for the radiology service. She is an excellent instructor, has won a number of technician awards, and is a contributing author to the “Handbook of Radiographic Positioning for Veterinary Technicians” published in 2010.

“Danielle has always been commit-ted to the mission of the radiology service and has provided a role model for her teammates as well as other technicians in the hospital,” Dr. Berry said. “She was instrumental in the beginning days of the nuclear medicine program at UF in 1991 by ensuring that all of the stringent state and federal regulations were met for radiation safety. This also included the de-velopment and implementation of the first state wide I-131 program for the treatment of feline hyperthyroidism within Florida.”

Ms. Mauragis always has the patients in mind when performing her tasks.

“First and foremost are my patients,” Ms. Mauragis said. “Quality control is im-portant and means the best possible image no matter what modality you use ensuring patient care and helping that patient on the road to recovery.”

Ms. Mauragis is thrilled to be receiv-ing the award.

“It is such a surprise for me,” Ms. Mauragis said. “I can’t believe it. For me, honestly, I do my job and try to do it well and I don’t expect to be rewarded. I just don’t know what I did to deserve it. This is a great job and great profession. I love being a technician and I can’t think about doing anything else.”

She and her husband, Dennis, have one daughter, Savannah. The house-hold also makes room for a terrier mix named Fizzy that works agility with Ms. Mauragis. A new terrier mix will be join-ing the family soon.

Danielle Mauragis, CVT

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

18 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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Team Member of the Year

Brandy Hardcastle has been named the FVMA 2011 Team Member of the

Year, nominated by Dr. Stephen Shores of Shores Animal Clinic. The Team Member of the Year Award recognizes the many outstanding contributions made by a spe-cial team member to the overall success of the veterinary practice operated or staffed by an FVMA member veterinarian.

Starting out in human medicine, Brandy Hardcastle turned a corner in that pursuit and ended up following her mother-in-law through the doors into the Shores Animal Clinic where she fell in love with the world of animals.

“My mother-in-law is the office manager here and I came to work for her in January of 1995,” Ms. Hardcastle said. “I am really a people person and here I get the technology side of the practice and can branch out and do all the things I really wanted to do.”

In her position as receptionist, that position has diversified into numerous facets of the job.

Taking a course in animal nutrition, Ms. Hardcastle passed that original nutri-tion course and continues to take courses throughout the years to remain current. She is also a behavior therapist with small animals.

“Basically I diagnose and help cli-ents with their animals’ problems,” Ms. Hardcastle said. “In working with the clients, I find out where the bad behavior comes from and why. The first time an animal does something, it is our tendency to forgive because we think they wouldn’t do it on purpose and it was a mistake. Then, (by doing that) we are telling them through ignoring the behavior, that it is alright to do that. So we reward them. We need to retrain them as we did when they were babies. You have to teach them ap-propriate behavior.”

Behavioral tips, when asked, is some-thing offered all day long at the clinic.

“Clients always have issues and we see them all day long.” Ms. Hardcastle said. “They have issues with cats not wanting to use litter boxes or puppies not going outside. You are never going to reason with the pets, you are going to redirect them. It is fun. Clients come back and say, ‘It worked!’”

Another part of her duties is inven-tory management where she takes care of the entire inventory and all the ordering “making sure all the logs are kept up-to-date and the pricing and the invoicing are all ok. I inventory everything from drugs, diets and supplies.”

Another favorite in her position is being the internet technician specialist and doing all the computer data system entry and computer updating.

“I maintain the website – the interac-tive client-based website,” Ms. Hardcastle said. “Clients can do ordering of supplies on the website, receive reminder emails and can visit chat rooms. It is basically a Facebook for the dogs.”

As a department manager, she over-sees the “runners” who are the assistants to the technicians, receptions and doctors.

“I work a receptionist position from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and work all the jobs in,” Ms. Hardcastle said. “I got into this for the people and the animals and it has just kind of grown in responsibility.”

Surprised by the award, “I am hon-ored and excited,” Ms. Hardcastle said.

She and her husband, David, live in Stark with two daughters, ages 7 and 11; with pets that include two dogs, two cats, two parakeets and 11 hamsters.

BrandyHardcastle

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

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Community Service Award

In September 2010, 221 puppies from Puerto Rico destined for a national

adoption event were housed in a tempo-rary shelter in Bushnell prior to transport to New York. Unfortunately, several of the imported puppies were infected with parvovirus and distemper virus while in Puerto Rico, resulting in transmission of these infections to the majority of the puppies in the temporary shelter. The State Veterinarian declared an official quarantine due to diseased dogs, repre-senting the first state-mandated quaran-tine for dogs in Florida.

The Incident Command System was instituted for management of this large-scale disease outbreak response, utilizing expertise from the University of Florida Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program vet-erinarians, the ASPCA disaster response teams, Sumter DART and Bay Area DART volunteers, and the University of Florida Veterinary Emergency Treatment Service. The Florida Veterinary Medical Association assisted in recruitment of volunteer veterinarians, veterinary techni-cians, veterinary students, and veterinary technician students. In all, nearly 200 volunteers responded to this disease man-agement incident, representing at least five different animal disaster response resources.

The disease intervention strat-egy instituted by the Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program included determina-tion of the infection status of each puppy, provision of supportive care to infected pups while in quarantine, and release of

uninfected puppies to adoption agencies. Many puppies infected with distemper were transferred to veterinary clinics that volunteered to care for them under isola-tion conditions until they were no longer infectious.

The intervention strategy resulted in 113 lives saved (51% of the dogs). Most of these puppies recovered from distemper infection, and all were adopted once virus shedding ceased. This would not have been possible without the veterinarians that cared for the puppies on-site as well as the veterinarians that volunteered their clinics for care of dogs until they cleared their infections. Their actions displayed a true altruistic spirit that qualifies them for recognition as outstanding individu-als who advanced veterinary medicine, animal health, and the meaning of the human-animal bond.

The following veterinarians were instrumental in saving lives during this large-scale disease outbreak response:

Dr. Shannon Kennedy is a mixed animal practitioner and volunteer with the Sumter DART unit. He was the first to recognize the distemper and parvovirus outbreak and organize the response. Dr. Kennedy volunteered his time to care for the dogs while they were quarantined in Bushnell and procured supplies for this effort. During this time, Dr. Kennedy still managed to operate his practice.

Dr. May-Li Cuypers is a veterinary internist and volunteer with the Bay Area DART unit. She spent many days pre-paring the shelters in both Bushnell and Gainesville, procuring necessary supplies, and providing veterinary care.

Dr. Bruce Keene volunteered to care for 29 dogs recovering from distemper in a secondary quarantine shelter in Altamonte Springs. He not only assumed financial responsibility for these dogs, but also worked with them daily for more than a month to ensure their health needs were met.

Drs. Terry Spencer, Sarah Kirk and Lisa Centonze volunteered their time caring for the puppies quarantined in the Bushnell shelter.

Drs. David Griffin, Steven Elliott, Kenneth Reeves and Carla Channell vol-untarily housed 25 puppies in their clinics from September to December 2010. Their staff did a tremendous job nursing these puppies back to health and finding loving homes once they were fully recovered from distemper infection.

The Bushnell Incident:Puerto Rican Puppies Quarantined with Infections

20 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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FVMA Community ServiceAward Honorees

Dr. Tim Porter and his staff fos-tered four puppies in their clinic for several weeks until they recovered from distemper infection.

Dr. Tina Merritt and her staff fostered two puppies in their clinic for many days until they recovered from distemper infection.

Dr. Lynn Duffy spent two days in Bushnell caring for the youngest and most vulnerable puppies. She then pro-vided foster care for five of them in her home until they recovered from their illness. She adopted out three of the puppies and kept two as her personal pets.

“See the attached pictures of Dr. Keene, Dr. Duffy, and some of the survivors,” Dr. Cynda Crawford said. “These pictures illustrate why this disease outbreak response manned by nearly 200 volunteers for three months was worth every penny and hour invested.”

Story courtesy Cynda Crawford, DVM, PhD, University of Florida, Gainesville

Pet Hero of the Year

BellaMiaDebbie Huffer, Owner

One very special flat coat retriever has a tongue with the power to

save a life. Every person who has a de-voted and loving pet knows the strong binding affection that is shared between the caregiver and the animal known as the human-animal bond.

Debbie Huffer of Largo has her lov-ing friend, Bella Mia, to thank for her own life when Ms. Huffer fell in her kitchen, severely cutting her head and becoming unconscious.

“An area in my kitchen is not the widest spot and I was coming around the corner and slipped where I had set up dog water bowls,” Ms. Huffer said. “I came down on the dog bowls frame that was wooden and split my head open with a wound that even-tually took 45 staples to close.

“I was lying on the floor and woke up to Bella Mia licking my face,” Ms. Huffer said. “I kept regain-ing and losing consciousness.”

But Bella Mia kept licking her face and trying to get her atten-tion. Meantime, Ms. Huffer was bleeding profusely. She regained consciousness enough to call 911 and then passed out again.

“I remember thinking that they (EMTs) can’t get into the house because the front door is locked,” Ms. Huffer said. “I regained consciousness again to manage to get the door unlocked and lost consciousness again.

“The next thing I remembered were the EMTs,” Ms. Huffer said. “I had lost so much blood that the emer-gency room doctor told me that if I had not come around (regain-ing consciousness) that in 25 minutes, I would have bled out.”

Bella Mia, a flat coat retriever, weighs 80 pounds. Now age 7, she celebrates her birthday in August. Bella Mia was only 2 and a half years old when she saved her companion’s life. That’s pretty good for a rescued dog that was surrendered by her financially

strapped Alabama family after Hur-ricane Katrina and given to the SPCA. But she was destined to give the gift of life and fortunately found her way to Florida and into the arms of Ms. Huffer.

“I volunteered at the SPCA, at that time, and friends there said I needed to get another dog after I had had to put mine down,” Ms. Huffer said. “I said I would when I was ready.”

In February, 2006, Ms. Huffer was called to the shelter by a friend who said she had found the dog for her.

“In the medical area, Bella Mia was quarantined and being medi-cally treated for heartworms,” Ms. Huffer said. “The other dogs were jumping at the cage doors, but Bella Mia (known then as Betty) was sit-ting wagging her tail. I sat on the ground and she backed up to me and sat on my legs looking around and that was our first meeting. I told them immediately that that was my dog.”

Now, Ms. Huffer says “I pay the mortgage and the bills, and she shares the bed allowing me just enough room to lie down every night as she takes up the rest (of the bed). She runs the house and allows me to live here.”

Bella Mia is the FVMA Pet Hero Award winner for 2011. The award is given for pets that have unself-ishly saved or preserved human life.

“I think it (the award) is awe-some,” said Ms. Huffer. “She was a hero and I wouldn’t be here hav-ing this conversation if she hadn’t continued to lick my face.”

•  Carla Channell, DVM•  Lisa Centonze, DVM•  Cynda Crawford, DVM•  May-Li Cuypers, DVM•  Madalyn (Lynn) Duffy, DVM•  Steven J. Elliott, DVM•  David F. Griffin, DVM•  R. Bruce Keene, DVM•  Shannon  Kennedy, DVM •  Sarah K. Kirk, DVM•  Julie Levy, DVM•  Tina B. Merritt, DVM•  Timothy J. Porter, DVM•  Kenneth  Reeves, DVM•  Terry G. Spencer, DVM

By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

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By BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Communications and Public Relations Director

2011 Industry Awards

The FVMA takes great pleasure in recogniz-ing our Industry Partners for their tremen-

dous support of the FVMA’s 2011 Retention and Recruitment Membership Campaign.

With the help of Pfizer, Franck’s Pharmacy, Elanco, Merial and Novartis, the FVMA is able to offer members more than $577,600 in free products.

The FVMA is committed to its goal of con-tinually increasing memberships each year. The FVMA’s leadership is also committed and involved in all aspects of the profession from problematic legal to educational public relations, business and practice management issues.

Membership in the FVMA is a vital element in achieving its legislative initiatives and regulatory changes that are favorable to the profession.

Memberships are being renewed and new memberships are being welcomed every day. This is due to the hard work of the FVMA Executive Board, Membership Committee, Budget and Finance Committee and the support of industry leaders like Pfizer, Franck’s Pharmacy, Elanco, Merial and Novartis who provide free products to help members offset the cost of their dues investments.

“Our membership numbers have increased again this year,” said Sandra Brooks, FVMA Director of Finance and Membership. “On March 31 this year, we had 231 more members than the same time last year.”

The FVMA recognizes the industry leaders who go the extra mile to support the annual mem-bership campaign and the objectives of the organi-zation. The FVMA Industry Awards are being pre-sented to Pfizer, Franck’s Pharmacy, Elanco, Merial and Novartis for their significant contributions to the 2011 Membership Retention and Recruitment Campaign.

The FVMA appreciates the continued support of industry leaders during the annual Membership Retention and Recruitment Campaign. Please take a moment and stop by their booths in the Exhibit Hall and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

As with any organization, membership strengthens the voice of that respective profession. Membership in the FVMA is what lends strength to the FVMA and its ability to protect and defend the future of veterinary medicine in Florida. The FVMA plays a vital role in influencing local ordi-nances and state legislation that is favorable to the veterinary profession.

The FVMA’s goal for this year is to continue to closely monitor the legislative session. We are prepared to address any issue that threatens or may impact the veterinary profession. The success of any initiative will require active participation of all Florida veterinarians.

Once again, FVMA thanks the industry leaders who, through their support, have offered $577,600 in free product to new and renewing members.

The FVMA recognizes the industry leaders who go the extra mile to support the annual member-

ship campaign and the objectives of the organization. With the help of Pfizer, Franck’s Pharmacy, Elanco, 

Merial and Novartis, the FVMA is able to offer members more than $577,600 in free products.

22 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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Elanco has joined the FVMA family this year because it realizes the im-portance of a veterinary association that keeps its members well informed on all issues of the industry. For each new FVMA member joining this year, Elanco offers a $150 wholesale value gift of one six-pack each of its new product lines – Trifexis, Comfortis and Assurity. The gift value to FVMA new members is $45,000. The FVMA is pleased to have the gift from Elanco and thanks Eric Lane, senior sales representative.

Merial recognizes the importance of organized veterinary medicine in Florida. As a way of saying thank you to all joining new FVMA members, Merial rewards the each new member with one six pack of Heartgard and one six pack of Frontline. The products have a wholesale value of $108 offering the 300 new members the generous gift value of $32,400. The FVMA thanks the efforts of Chad Evans and Kin Sweet, district managers, for this year’s membership support.

Novartis has joined the FVMA family this year because it recognizes the importance of organized veterinary medicine and the service it provides. For the estimated 300 new members, Novartis presents one 12-month supply package of Sentinel for Dogs. The value of this new gift for the new members is $27,000. The FVMA and its members appreciate the select gift Novartis has offered to our members at an individual wholesale cost of $90. The FVMA appreciates the support offered to our annual Member-ship Recruitment and Retention Campaign on the part of Novartis and Frank Zambito, senior territory manager.

Frank’s Pharmacy offered all new and renewing members, a free new com-pounded prescription voucher valued up to $50. The vouchers for the free compounded prescriptions are worth $175,000. Franck’s Pharmacy has been serving the veterinary profession nationwide for more than 27 years. The FVMA thanks CEO Paul Franck for his support of the FVMA mem-bership campaign this year. The offer expires Dec. 31, 2011. The FVMA thanks CEO Paul Franck and Shari Godano for their support of the FVMA membership campaign this year.

Pfizer has graciously provided each new and renewing member with two each, 75ml 60-count Chewable Rimadyl. The offer to collect the free gift extends through July 31, 2011 as part of the FVMA’s Membership Recruit-ment and Retention Campaign. Pfizer’s contribution has a wholesale value each of $85.20 and provides the FVMA membership with $298,200 in free product. FVMA thanks Dr. John Phillips, managing area veterinarian for Pfizer; Juan-Carlos Liberos, area sales manager, and Pete Samuelsen, senior territory manager, for their help and support of the FVMA’s 2011 membership campaign.

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Always read, understand and follow the label and use directions.

Introducing Assurity, a once-a-month topical solution for the prevention and treatment of flea infestations in cats and kittens 8 weeks and older

• Starts working in 30 minutes

• Kills 98-100% of fleas within 12 hours

• 100% flea control from 24 hrs through 37 days

• Low dosing volume

• One dosing size for all cats

• Single and 6-dose dispensing options

• Unique product tracking system to help keep dispensing within a valid veterinarian/client/patient relationship

Feline flea protection that means business

©2010 Elanco ASR00116 120110

NEW

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Made in the USAAt Kan, we have always believed the best way to ensure the consistency, quality, and safety of our products is to manufacture them ourselves. Kan buys herbs in whole raw bulk and tests

each incoming lot for over 200 different pesticides as well as toxic metals and bio-burdens, such as yeast, mold, E.Coli,

Staphylococcus and Salmonella. Our Certificates of Analysis reflect our commitment to the Quality,

safety and efficacy of our products.Kan Essentials

24 Classical

Formulas for

Animals

Adapted by

Steve Marsden,

L.Ac., D.V.M.

380 Encinal Street, Suite 100, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 800.543.5233 www.kanherb.com

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Generate Sales and Retain Clients… Greenbrier has the means for you: Package Pricing for every budget Incremental sales, Memorials, Necklaces and more… 2005 Prices Grief Counselors Pre-need Packages Memorial Gardens

Remember your clients emotional Remember your clients emotional Remember your clients emotional well being is in your handswell being is in your handswell being is in your hands

3703 W. Kelly Park Rd Apopka, FL. 327123703 W. Kelly Park Rd Apopka, FL. 327123703 W. Kelly Park Rd Apopka, FL. 32712 (800)257(800)257(800)257---2107 * www.greenbrierpets.com2107 * www.greenbrierpets.com2107 * www.greenbrierpets.com

Veterinary practice brokers focused on the financialsuccess and growth of fellow veterinary professionals.

Century 21 Commander Real Estate Inc.

� Seller Representation� Buyer Representation� Associate Buy-Ins� Practice Sales� Appraisals� Financial Assistance

Richard Alker, DVMFlorida RepresentativeOffice: 850.814.9962E-mail: [email protected]

Selling or Buying aVeterinary Practice?

TOTAL PRACTICESOLUTIONS GROUPVeterinary Practice Sales

26 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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Ladies and Gentlemen… Now Introducing Radiocat FL!

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FACILITY DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR FELINE HYPERTHYROIDISM

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Feel ProtectedSolutions for your practice

Workers’ Compensation • Business Property/ Liability • Flood Coverage • Umbrella Liability • Commercial Auto • Employment Practices Liability

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Professional Liability • Veterinary License Defense • Professional Extension (Animal Bailee) • Safety and Risk Management Resources

Solutions for your home

Personal Automobile • Homeowners • Renters ...and much more!

Insurance and Risk Management for Today’s Veterinarian

Call 800.228.PLIT (7548) today for an evaluation of your insurance portfolio and a free premium quotation.

HUB International Midwest LimitedTrust Broker and Administrator:

FL VMA Newsletter 7.5 x 5 4C.indd 1

28 2011  •  FVMA ADVOCATE  •  Issue 2

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• Acupuncture / Rehab.• Avian / Exotic• Cardiology• Critical Care• Dermatology• Emergency Medicine• Internal Medicine

• Neurology / Neurosurgery• Oncology / Radiation• Ophthalmology• Radioiodine (I-131)• Radiology• Surgery

Sleep peacefullyknowing your referralsare in good hands

Tampa • (813) 933-8944BluePearl Veterinary Partners Hospitals • www.bluepearlvet.com

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Leadership in Veterinary Regenerative Technology

DEMO

High-energy, focused sound waves penetrate to heal:• Heals soft tissue injuries and delayed fractures• Proven to reduce lameness and increase motility• Relieves pain associated with OA and LS disease• 1-3 treatments demonstrate significant long-term improvement

The power behind feeling soundVersaTron 4 Paws® Shock Wave therapy: Gives you the power proven to get them on the move again.

RECHARGE ‘N LEARN: HIGH-ENERGY SHOCK WAVE SESSIONSCustomized educational program for your clinic · Evidence-based research ·

Coffee, high-energy snacks, giveaways for attendees · One FREE treatment if live demo is requested · Invite staff, referring physicians, clients ·

Request a customized program at ShockwaveHealing.com

Injured Fido gets a jump start feeling soundShock wave therapy, or high-energy

sound wave technology, has made significant strides as a noninvasive treatment option for various orthopedic conditions since its introduction to the equine market over 10 years ago.

Clinical success in the equine market has paved the way for the introduction of shock wave therapy in canines, gaining significant momentum with ongoing research at top universities and small animal clinics. Positive results in randomized clinical trials with shock wave have gleaned new opportunities in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA), shoulder instability, hip dysplasia, patellar ligament desmitis and more recently its use in addressing pain and motility issues associated with LS disease and wound healing.

So, what is shock wave? Well, shock waves are high-energy, focused sound waves that travel through soft tissue at customized depths to reach a specific treatment area. It’s precise healing using high-energy pressure waves that result in deeper penetration than ultrasound or laser, for example.

These higher energy sound waves work at a cellular level to speed healing by reducing inflammation and swelling, improving vascularity, increasing bone fo rma t ion , and enhanc ing wound healing.

Shock wave success in reducing lameness, increasing motility, and relieving pain, has demonstrated improvement in as l i t t l e as 1 -2 treatments, with improvement lasting

a year or more for chronic conditions. M o s t r e c e n t l y, t h e S c h o o l o f Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennessee reported a statistically significant increase in peak vertical force in dogs treated with shock wave for elbow OA compared to control group in a randomized study. Treatment of back pain with shock wave has demonstrated close to 90 percent success rate. Extended canine treatment opportunities combined with clinical success and favorable client feedback help to yield a sound return on investment for veterinarians and offer an affordable alternative to other treatments offered to clients.

If you’re treating orthopedic conditions with other technologies and have not tried shock wave, ask for the science behind the technology. The proven success of shock wave therapy is well worth looking into a free trial offered by the manufacturers of the VersaTron4Paws technology.

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ASSOCIATES WANTEDExperienced veterinarian wanted to practice 2- 2 1/2 days a week in a two veterinarian practice in Ruskin, Fl. If interested please fax resume to 813-645-3336 or email to [email protected]. (Exp. Issue 3/11:6435)

RELIEF VETERINARIANSExperienced small animal veterinarian willing to serve Central Orlando,� Daytona, Altamonte, Casselberry, Longwood, Winter Springs and Oviedo areas. Other locations are negotiable. Excel-lent client communication, compassionate care and respect for your staff are of the utmost importance. Call Tiffany Lewis at 321-332-4949 or email: [email protected]. (Exp. Issue 2/11:10579)Veterinary Relief Service: Tampa Bay,� Orlando,� and sur-�rounding areas.� Short/long term positions accepted. Internship trained and in practice for 10 years. References available on request. Small animal, some avian, aquatics, and exotics. Enjoy working with staff and clients. Contact Martha Keller, DVM at (813) 434-3070 or [email protected] (Exp. Issue 2/11:9212)Relief Veterinarian available for short- term, long-term, and weekend coverage in Orange, Seminole, and surrounding counties. Experience with diverse medical caseloads; excellent record keeping. Outstanding communication skills and compassionate patient care. Call Dr. Kati Allison 352-262-2864 or email at [email protected]. (Exp. Issue 3/11:9976)Small animal Veterinarian with 40+ years experience would like relief work on the East central coast of Florida. Recently sold my practice. W. Joe Fuller, 321-544-2507. (Exp. Issue 4/11:892)Experienced hard working DVM for relief work in West Palm area.� Likes surgery. Call Todd Rieke @ 651-485-4778 or [email protected] (Exp. Issue 4/11:17508)

PRACTICES FOR SALEFor Lease or Sale in Pompano Beach,� FL -� Previously estab-lished small animal clinic at site for 40 years plus. Approximately 3,600 square foot freestanding building on approximately .7 acre of land with busy highways on three sides of clinic allowing access from both North and South bound traffic. Four exam rooms, large treatment, Dr’s office, lab, pre op, surgery, post op, grooming rooms and kennel room, 3 kennel rooms, 8 indoor runs, storage. Sale price $700,000, Lease price $3,500/month. Available Now - 954-786-3274 or email [email protected] (Exp. Issue 2/11:1320)Animal House Calls – Small animal mobile, 13 years established; priced to sell $160,000 - $180,000. Owner entering FT politics. Friendly, moral, fun place to live, work, raise family. Dr. Kelso [email protected] drpkelso.com. (Exp. Issue 2/11:12996)

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALEFor Sale 24 foot Le Boit Mobile Van.� 2008 model, with diesel engine and generator. Slightly over 29,000 miles. Call Dr. Claxton at (813) 767-3962 or email [email protected]. (Exp. Issue 3/11:8769)

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Classified ads for FVMA members cost $45 for up to 40 words with additional words assessed at 25¢ per word. For non-members, the rate is $65 for up to 40 words with addition-al words assessed at 25¢ per word. All ads must be submitted in writing preferably by email for verification of word count and payment is necessary in advance of publication. Email your classified ad to [email protected]. For more information about FVMA advertising please call 800-992-3862 for an insertion order. Now all Advocate Classified Ads are also published on the FVMA website www.fvma.org under “Classified Ads.”

Call or check our website for additional listings!

1610 Frederica Road * Saint Simons Island, GA 31522 Toll Free: 800.333.1984 * www.simmonsinc.com

Email: [email protected] Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

Florida Practices for SalePRICE REDUCED! West Palm Beach Solo dr works 5 half days. Gross $570K+ & avg trx chg $156. 4000SF facility on ½ acre of lake front RE is well-equipped and has 5 exam rooms. Prx & RE $950K (FL11A) PRICE REDUCED! Central Florida Solo dr prx gross $635K. $114 avg trx chg! Long term staff in place. New commercial growth in area. Prx & RE $780K (FL10A) Brevard County This quaint town on east coast beaches is a great place to live! 1.5 dr SA prx grossing $748K. Apprx 2100SF facility w/ 3 exam rooms sits on apprx 1 acre. Prx & RE $1,135K (FL26B) Sarasota Area Well-established, SA, 2 dr prx grosses $1.4M+. Personal income after debt serviced expected to be in excess of $300K. Sale includes 1400SF rental home. Facility and rental home in need of repairs. Prx and RE $1,685K (FL31B) Panhandle Beautiful Emerald Coast SA, solo prx open Mon-Fri. Gross $520K and up 12% in 2010. High quality medicine practiced in an immaculate 2400SF leased facility. Avg trx chg $115. Prx $310K (FL2D)

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PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDOrlando, FLPermit #793

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national reach regional expertise

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practice sales • practice appraisals • buyer agency • sales facilitation • exit strategy

ExperienceWe got it.

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Founder of