News & Views Summer 2016

NEWS VIEWS

MEET YOUR NEW MVMA COUNCIL

CANINE AGGRESSION

HONEST MISTAKES


CANINE AGGRESSION

HONEST MISTAKES

Summer 2016

Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association

ii MVMA News & Views | Summer 2016

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1MVMA News & Views | Summer 2016

2 President’s Message

3 ED Report

4 Ask the Registrar

6 On Campus

8 Meet your new MVMA council 10 Conservative management 12 Animal Welfare – Canine Aggession 13 CABB

14 One Profession. One Strong Voice.

16 PRC

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10

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Summer 2016

OUR VISIONA society that embraces excellence in animal health and welfare.

MISSION STATEMENTAs trusted leaders and advocates for the betterment and protection of animals and people in Manitoba, we provide regulatory governance and empower our members to champion the art and science of veterinary medicine.

MVMA 2016 COUNCILPresidentDr. Suzanne Davidson

Past PresidentDr. Roxane Neufeld

Vice PresidentDr. Richard Hodges

Council MembersDr. Wadie ArizaDr. Dale DoumaDr. Manjit SraDr. Jonas Watson

Veterinary Technologist MemberChristy Martens

Veterinary Technologist MemberJanis McCarthy

Public MemberLorraine AdamDoug Oliver

MVMA STAFFAndrea LearExecutive Director204.832.1276 [email protected]

Michelle Martin-StrongRegistrar - Licensing and Regulatory Inquiries204.832.1276 [email protected]

Tracy ReesMember Services Coordinator204.832.1276 [email protected]

Melanie St. LaurentOffice Assistant204.832.1276 [email protected]

NEWS & VIEWS PUBLICATION INFORMATIONNews & Views is the members only newsletter of the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association.

Published quarterly and distributed to approximately 500 veterinarians

and animal health technologists, News & Views is where Manitoba’s animal health professionals find their information on the practice of veterinary medicine in Manitoba.The MVMA has taken reasonable care in preparing the information contained in this magazine, but cannot guarantee its accuracy at the time of publication. The information and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or views of MVMA members, council or News & Views. In addition, we take no responsibility for the accuracy of information contained in the advertisements as the owners of those advertisements, alone,

are responsible for verifying the accuracy of their information.Next deadline: September 13, 2016

Inquiries and Advertising: Tracy Rees Member Services CoordinatorManitoba Veterinary Medical Association,1590 Inkster Blvd.Winnipeg, MBR2X 2W4Manitoba Toll Free: 1.866.338.MVMA (6862)Phone: 204.832.1276 ext. 3Fax: 204.832.1382Email: [email protected] site: www.mvma.ca

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2 MVMA News & Views | Summer 2016

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dr. Suzanne Davidson

Volunteerism on the rise in MVMA

I had the chance recently to reflect on what it means to be a volunteer. Everyone who volunteers does so for different reasons.

I had heard of a well-established and popular youth biking program in Portage that had to fold, not because of a lack of participants, but because of a lack of volunteers to run it. Similarly, on another board I serve on for Biathlon Manitoba, we have two board vacancies, one for President and the other for Vice President. Both situations are dire in that programs may fold if someone, likely a parent, doesn’t step up to help fill a need.

Council recently was reviewing student applications to choose our new MVMA/WCVM student representative and it struck me just how much volunteer work these students had already done. In fact in that circumstance, for a student the impetus to volunteer is to gain workplace and life experience and also build one’s resume.

So what brings people to volunteer at the MVMA? It certainly is not directly about our children if we have them and it has little to do with resume building in my opinion. Some might say that some may volunteer their time out of a personal agenda to further their own business life but I really haven’t seen that either. I believe it is the most altruistic form of volunteering, where the people involved care about veterinary medicine and want to see our association grow in a positive way. Our most recent council meeting was composed of our new council of eleven. Two seats were for public members appointed by government, and two were for technologist members. These two tech members Christy Martens and Janis McCarthy have already been attending council meetings prior to being eligible to vote, learning the ropes but committing time and effort on working groups to lend their voices and opinions to the MVMA as technologist members. Our government appointees, Lorraine Adam and Doug Oliver, have extensive experience on other boards and bring that wisdom to MVMA. My decision to volunteer for MVMA was rooted in the desire to get to know my veterinary colleagues better in the province while learning about, and hopefully, contributing to our profession in some meaningful way. I must admit that I was a reluctant president as I wasn’t sure I could manage the job until I realized that most people feel exactly the same, and the staff is so supportive and competent they make it easy.

Nationally, volunteerism is on the decline. The reasons vary but thankfully in the MVMA in recent years our rate of volunteerism is steadily increasing. We have some of our established committees like PIPS committee which overseas practice inspections and our Peer Review Committee mandated in legislation with a dedicated group of volunteers who carefully review complaints. MVMA has some new and rejuvenated committees like Animal Welfare and Professional Image that have some new members are facilitated by MVMA’s Tracy Rees. These committees are exploring some fresh new ideas talking about issues that affect us all. We have several volunteer sub groups working on antimicrobial stewardship, PST on veterinary products, access to veterinary care in remote areas and the development of the fee disclosure by-law and re-lated guidelines. These groups will generate some tasks the MVMA can move forward. Many of these groups are working on issues that are receiving attention in other provinces as well. Council is currently developing a strategic planning day in November to bring these groups together whereby they will get the chance to meet, and guided by council, continue to work towards the up-coming year’s plans and projects. Our goal is to bring these volun-teers together yearly to meet and strategize.

This is exciting news! And additionally as we continue to build momentum to positive change we have a whole new sub group of people (technologists!) who hopefully will want to add their voice to MVMA committees.

Everyone who contributes to the success of the MVMA as a volunteer has my deepest gratitude. Thank you for your hard work, and for caring about our profession. If you are interested in participating on a committee give the MVMA office a call.

“You don’t have to be the best to volunteer; you just need to offer your best”

– Byron Pulsifer

Sincerely,Dr. Suzanne Davidson MVMA President 2016


Volunteering and the “New” MVMA Council

Dr. Davidson focused on volunteering in her report, how important it is and the risk when there are no volunteers. The MVMA is fortunate that when there is a need, members

come forward. However, there are so many more activities the asso-ciation could do.

In 2014, the MVMA Council focused on getting the association “in shape”. Internal reviews on staffing and organizational structure were completed. This review lead to a clear picture of how the MVMA functions and clarified roles and responsibilities. This under-standing supported the MVMA as it responded to amendments to the Veterinary Medical Act as well as regulation of veterinary technologists in 2015. There is still work to do regarding these matters, but it feels as though the MVMA can begin to work on other projects.

There are the committees and projects that Dr. Davidson mentioned in her report; the new Animal Welfare Committee, a rejuvenated Professional Image Committee as well as special committees work-ing on antimicrobial stewardship, access to veterinary care, PST on veterinary products and the development of the fee disclosure by-laws and related guidelines. Still, there are many other items the MVMA could pursue, and without volunteers, the association will not be able to take them on. There are also existing MVMA committees that need a bit of a boost and you could be the spark. Keep looking for projects and committees that pique your interest and get involved. The association tries to keep it as simple as possible, using conference calls and electronic communication to reduce in-person meetings, although in-person meetings are important, too. There is always an MVMA staff person on committees to assist as required and support the project.

Speaking of volunteers…. We have some new MVMA Council members. They became “official” in May, but all were introduced to the MVMA at a meeting this spring. Welcome to Lorraine Adam (public member), Christy Martens (technologist member), Janis McCarthy (technologist member), and Doug Oliver (public member). Please see their bios in this issue, but let me tell you what a pleasure they have been to work with.

Christy and Janis joined the MVMA Council as guest members in January 2016, lending their voices and thoughts on matters before the MVMA Council. They have each participated in two MVMA Council sub-committees reviewing items that affect technolo-gists as well as some of the other, broader, sub-committees. I have appreciated their honesty, interest and passion for the veterinary profession. They have been very balanced in their thoughts – weighing not only the interests of technologists but also those of veterinarians, the veterinary profession and the public.

Lorraine and Doug have joined the MVMA Council at their last two meetings. Both bring extensive experience and insight. Coming from different backgrounds – from each other as well as our existing veterinarian and technologist council members – they bring a perspective that may not have been considered in the past. All four “new” council members have jumped in and contributed. Our existing veterinarian council members were immediately open to including these members in all aspects of the MVMA. I’ll admit to a concern about synergy and trust when the MVMA Council section was amended in the Veterinary Medical Act – adding four new members. But, after a few direct interactions and Council meetings, this concern has been alleviated and I be-lieve the MVMA Council will continue to work on behalf of the profession and public in a responsible manner.

If there are activities or projects that you would like the MVMA to pursue (and are willing to lend a hand to), please contact me. Not only can volunteering support the MVMA, it allows for personal growth, new experiences, and the development of a network in your professional community.

“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”” – Muhammad Ali

Have a great summer.Andrea E: [email protected]: 204 832 1276 ext. 1

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORAndrea Lear



Having the talk with clients - Disposal methods for pharmaceuticals and students in the clinic

Wishing you all a wonderful summer full of great memories to keep you smiling. Once again I will share reminders on items I get asked frequently

about. So, here is the Summer version of Ask the Registrar:

Helping clients in the disposal of leftover, expired or unwanted veterinary medicines in their home.

On occasion a member of the public brings to our attention something they have concerns about. Not too long ago it was brought to my attention that a shelter was requesting members of the public via social media to send unused animal medications to them for use in their charitable work. This included not only medications such as antibiotics but also pain killers in this case; tramadol. Not only is it illegal to request, receive and reuse these medications, it has inherent danger issues. One doesn’t know what drugs are being passed off as another drug; whether the drugs are expired or have been tampered with. The fact that members of the public are willing to support a request like this suggests to me that some education may be required from veterinarian to client. Although many of you probably already have had the talk with your clients about returning unused portions of medications to your clinic or to a human medicine pharmacy, the talk may be needed again. With the usual concerns of medicines falling into the wrong hands, being resold on the street, taken by owners, people treating their pets with drugs they received from a friend it is enough to advise clients of these inherent problems, but add to the list, another major concern surrounds the improper disposal of the medicines. There is much greater awareness now on the part we all can play in antimicrobial stewardship, and advising clients to return products to the clinic or a pharmacy instead of dis-posing it by themselves or giving to someone else to use is a much better solution.

Pharmaceuticals and biologics can, in many cases, be returned to the manufacturer or distributor. There are several com-mercial operations that collect and properly dispose of biomedical wastes. In addition one of the major veterinary drug distribution cooperatives in western Canada also offers a biomedical waste collection services. If there are particular services your clinic utilizes for biomedical waste disposal please contact the registrar and provided that information as I am trying to build up a directory of services that clinics and veterinarians can access.

When it comes to controlled substances and drugs, veteri-narians must obtain an Authorization to Return form from the manufacturer. For destruction of narcotic and controlled substances, authorization must be obtained from the Office of Controlled Substances and the destruction must take place in the presence of another health care professional. Incineration is considered the ideal way to destroy narcotic and controlled substances, however they can be chemically adulterated by mixing them with bleach or an inert substance such as chalk, sawdust or cement. Such a mixture can be disposed of by means that conforms to local municipal regulations.

The following is an excerpt from the footnotes section of the PIPS by-laws addressing ways for disposal to serve as a reminder about proper disposal not only of drugs but all hazardous goods.

The Canadian Council of Ministers of Environment (CCME) have recently published guidelines that promote uniform waste management practices for medical and veterinary facilities in order to ensure minimum national standards for Biomedical Waste Management in Canada. The following guidelines on municipal By-laws for management of biomedical and hazardous wastes shall be adhered to by members of the MVMA:

Type Disposal Method Recommended:1. All animal anatomical waste - consisting of tissues,

organs, body parts and carcasses but excluding teeth, hair and nails. Incinerated or buried at approved land fill sites or collected and disposed of by an approved waste management facility. Wastes at landfills must be covered by a minimum of 1 metre of soil and at least 100 metres away from a water source in accordance with the Provincial Environment Act.

2. All animal non-anatomical waste, micro-biological wastes and sharps: Consisting of items saturated with blood or body fluids excluding urine or feces; Lab cultures, stocks or specimens of micro-organisms, live or attenuated vaccines; Human or animal cell cultures used in research and lab material that has come into contact with these; Clinical and laboratory material consisting of needles, syringes, blades or lab glass capable of causing punctures or cuts. Autoclaved and disposed of in landfills or incinerated or collected and

ASK THE REGISTRARMichelle Martin-Strong


disposed of by an approved waste management facility.3. X-ray fixer, X-ray films, formaldehyde, other laboratory chemical

wastes, drugs. Collection and disposal by licensed hazardous waste management facility or detoxified on premises in such a way as to reduce effluent contamination to below hazardous waste standards.

4. Office and hospital supplies. Routine waste disposal.”

Also the PIPS By-laws advise that expired drugs shall be kept separate prior to return to manufacturer, supplier or suitable disposal.

Remember each municipality may have additional requirements for hazardous material disposal and it is strongly recommended that you become familiar to the requirements in your area.

STUDENTS IN CLINIC – ADVISING YOUR CLIENTS

A question was recently raised to Council whether clinics should advise their clients that they have a student (veterinary or veterinary technologist or veterinary assistant students) working in their clinic and that their animals may be handled and/or treated by one of these kind of students. The answer from Council was yes, clients should be made aware that clinics do provide a place for students of the veterinary profession: veterinarians; veterinary technologists and veterinary assistants to learn hands-on about their profession. It is important to remember that all students are under supervision of a licenced veterinary member of the MVMA and the licenced member will be hold ultimately accountable should a compliant be filed. However saying that I have yet to receive such a complaint.

The idea is not to scare clients that these students will be unleashed on their animals doing all kind of procedures, but rather to make them aware that the students are there to learn in a supportive and supervised environment and that the clinic has nothing to hide. Further it might encourage clients to feel by allowing their animals to be worked on by a student that they are playing an integral part in the education of these students which in turn goes a long way to creating excellence in the profession. The MVMA has produced a print off sign sharing that sentiment that clinics can use if they wish instead of creating one for themselves. The text of the sign is accompanied with a rather cute picture.

The sign reads: Our clinic often hosts students: veterinarian, veterinary technol-ogists and assistants for work experience. These students may as-sist in various activities in the clinic under the supervision of a veterinarian. If clients have questions please ask.Thank you.

If you are interested in downloading the sign for printing purposes just click here.

At any time should you have any questions about the topics presented here or others, please do not hesitate to contact me at 204 832 1276 ext 2 or [email protected].

Wishing you a wonderful summer!!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESDo you know of a great cause that could use some help from MVMA members? Let us know and we will feature opportunities in this section.

SAVE A DOG NETWORK

Save A Dog Network Canada is reaching out to ask for veterinarians and technicians to offer volunteer days to do Spay/Neuters, vaccines and deworming clinics. They provide all the supplies, basic costs, transportation, accommodations and meals, and just need donated time. The group is easy going, open to schedules and can make anything work. The volunteers can stay closer to Winnipeg or they will do fly in communities where the need is greater.

For further information contact Katie Powell at [email protected]

PAWSITIVE COMMUNITIES

Is a mobile spay & neuter program to spay/neuter/vaccinate animals in First Nations communities across the province. In partnership with the Brandon Humane Society as well as Dakota Ojibway Police Service.

This program is in need of help from veterinarians and technicians.

For further information contact [email protected]

http://www.mvma.ca/resources/veterinarians/students-clinic-sign

http://www.mvma.ca/resources/veterinarians/students-clinic-sign


Experience of a Lifetime

I thought I had a good idea of what I was getting into when I first walked through the doors of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. I was (somewhat) right about the sheer

amount of knowledge I would have the opportunity to learn, but I could never have imagined the quality of the relationships and experiences I would have throughout the year.

My name is Kirstie Oswald, and I am the new MVMA Student Representative for the WCVM. I grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and spent the majority of my time with horses. I soon recognized that becoming a veterinarian would help me to understand the issues that affected my animals. From then on, I knew what my final goal was. This dream was realized in June, 2015 when I was accepted into the WCVM, and so far it has surpassed my expectations.

My first year in vet school was one I will not forget. The Class of 2019 was greeted enthusiastically by the college and our second year buddies. We were thrown right into the fray with Vetavision 2015, an event that allowed the WCVM to open its doors to the public for activities and education in veterinary medicine. It was a fantastic event and one that my class looks forward to helping organize again in a couple years. The participants were interested and receptive, asked in depth questions, and made it a rewarding event for every-body involved. Of course, classes were not on pause during this time. Throughout the year our time was constantly taken up by studying, and occasionally those magical ‘Aha!’ moments that felt so good. We learnt so much, it seems impossible. At the same time, it makes me feel unbelievably fortunate.

Right now, my fellow students are scattered throughout the country and the globe, including Switzerland, Uganda, the Arctic, and Berlin. All of us, trying to figure out how to apply the concepts learned in vet school to the everyday lives of vets. The WCVM does a fantastic job of helping make things concrete for us – every class is formatted in a way that brings the subject or concept back

to a real life scenario. To balance the quantity of reading we have to do, the WCVM supports several extremely awesome clubs, such as Production Animal, Animal Welfare, Emergency and WEAMS (Wild and Exotic Animal Medicine Society). These clubs provide us with opportunities to handle, work with and examine animals that we have never had the chance to experience. They also remind us why we are in this absolutely crazy and challenging curriculum.

The WCVM has been a home to all of us students for the past 8 months. Now, in the midst of the summer heat and without a day planner organized by minute, I find myself thinking ahead to next year. About two weeks before final exams took over my life, I purchased a pathology textbook that I won’t need until my second year. Why? I have no idea. But for some reason, I thought that I might need it over the summer. Perhaps for those moments during work when I’m listening to a vet plan the treatment for an animal, and wondering if I could find a good description for that disease or ailment. I was lucky enough to find a job in a small animal clinic with a vet that knows each and every one of their patients and clients personally. Sometimes at night I get to sit on the couch with my piece of cloth-covered foam and practice burying a knot, thinking back to a surgery I saw performed recently. During those moments my thoughts often include ‘This will be my job one day’, and ‘I’d better re-learn how to do those sutures now because I’ll forget by fall’. I know that my job this summer will only solidify my desire to complete the veterinary program and start making my own mark on the world. For this reason amongst others, I’m excited to get back to school in the fall and hear about everybody else’s summer adventures, and how they have motivated and influ-enced each person’s life. I know they will all agree with me when I say this will continue to be the experience of a lifetime.

Until next time, Kirstie

ON CAMPUS AT WCVMKirstie Oswald, WCVM Student Representative for the MVMA


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Left to right: Councilor - Wadie Ariza, Veterinary Technologist Member - Christy Martens, Veterinary Technologist Member - Janis McCarthy, Vice President - Richard Hodges, Past President – Roxane Neufeld, Councilor - Jonas Watson, President - Suzanne Davidson, Public Member - Doug Oliver, Public Member - Lorraine Adam. Seated left to right: Councilor - Manjit Sra, Councilor - Dale Douma.Thank you to all of these volunteers!


Effective May 5, 2016, the MVMA Council has two veterinary technologist members as well as two public members.


A Word from our Newest Council MembersLORRAINE ADAM PUBLIC MEMBER

I am pleased and honoured to be one of the first public representatives on the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association Council under the new Veterinary Medical Act.

From the material I have reviewed it appears that the year has been both rewarding and challenging for the Association, with the need for continuing work for the future.

I look forward to the involvement. I am confi-dent that the range of my knowledge and experiences in leadership and management and positions in government will contribute to this work.

Having graduated with a MSW from the Univer-sity of Manitoba I worked in social services & the health system in 3 provinces. Most recently in Manitoba I held the positions of Executive Director in Public Health (Government of Manitoba) in Winnipeg and Regional Administrator of the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba in Brandon. Following retirement a couple of years ago, I worked as a consultant with Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives and Manitoba Health in the development of joint policies on food safety and with Manitoba eHealth (WRHA) in change management.

Retirement allows me the time to travel, enjoy my 2 children and families, focus on fitness and take in community activities.

DOUG OLIVER PUBLIC MEMBER

I feel very privileged to be nominated to be one of the first two public members to serve on the MVMA council.

I am a Woodlands area cattle producer and married with 3 grown children and 5 grandkids. I am a full time bus driver for Interlake School Division. I am also a former councillor for 12 years in the R.M of Woodlands which gave me experience on many boards and committees. In my spare time I enjoy hunting, fishing and entertaining family and friends. I’m also busy attending grandkids sporting events. I look forward to working together with the council and staff to move forward in achieving their goals.

CHRISTY MARTENS VETERINARY TECHNOLOGIST MEMBER

I grew up in Grunthal, Manitoba on a mixed livestock farm of dairy, bison and horses. I attended NAIT- Fairview college and graduated in 2006. I lived in Alberta for the year after graduation returning and soon after started at Transcona Veterinary Hospital and have been there since. I have been involved in many different organizations including MAHTA as the conference coordinator in 2010. I have enjoyed having the chance to be involved in both associations. I am now sitting as your Technologist on the Veterinary board. I look forward to sitting on the MVMA Council in one of the technologist positions.

JANIS MCCARTHY VETERINARY TECHNOLOGIST MEMBER

I graduated from the Animal Health Tech program at Kelsey in Saskatoon in 1976. After working at several vet clinics in Calgary, I moved back to Saskatoon in 1980 to work in the Vet-erinary Anatomy Lab at the WCVM. I also had the opportunity to work with the musk ox calves that were brought to the WCVM from Banks Island in 1982, thus laying the ground-work for my next 35 years. I also graduated from the Medical Laboratory program at Kelsey and City Hospital in 1985 and was offered the zoo vet tech position at the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg. I started at the Zoo in January of 1986 and worked there until my retirement in February 2012. I am currently still on the

payroll as the Casual Part-Time Vet Tech but am essentially retired.

I volunteered with the MWRO (Manitoba Wildlife Rehab Org. – now known as Wildlife Haven) for many years as the Medical Rehab Director and helped establish the Centre at Glenlea. I was a member of the Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians for 30 yrs (at the time, a North American organization but there were only 5 Canadian members) and was the Canadian Rep for the AZVT for many years. The AZVT is now a world wide organization of zoo veterinary technologists.

Within my first week of starting at the Zoo, I became involved with MAHTA and spent the early years working with extremely dedicated technologists to form our association. I served on the MAHTA Board in various positions over the past 30 years and am honored to now sit on the MVMA Council as one of the Veterinary Technologist representatives. I feel that my many years of experience with MAHTA serving provincial veterinary technologists will stand me in good stead to continue representing our technologists with the MVMA.

We are entering a new era of cooperation between veterinary technologists and veterinarians, and now that we are members of the MVMA alongside the veterinarians, I foresee challenges but also opportunities for growth and leadership. The next few years will certainly be interesting but I am optimistic for a better future for all of us.


CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT OF CHONDRODYSTROPHIC DOGS WITH THORACOLUMBAR INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DISEASE (IVDD)BY BY LAURIE EDGE-HUGHES, BSCPT, MANIMST (ANIMAL PHYSIO), CAFCI, CCRT

Without use of advanced diagnostic technology it is difficult to ascertain the exact degree of damage in a spinal cord lesion in a dachshund with thoracolumbar (T-L) disc disease and mild to moderate or even severe deficits. However, the assumption made with chondrodys-

trophic breeds is that there has been a weakening and disruption of the annulus fibrosis surrounding the disc, which has allowed the extrusion of a small amount of discal material (often calcified). This is the typical Hansen type 1 IVDD. Alternately, a Hansen type 3 could also be to blame, whereby there is a high velocity extrusion of the discal materials that results in minimal cord compression but severe neurologic deficits. Essentially a contusion to the spinal cord has resulted from an acute but transient compression or assault to the cord. Conservative treatment can yield favourable results (especially in cases where surgery is not an option for whatever reason) and should be goal oriented, with an under-standing of the underlying pathology. It is also critical that the practitioner be capable of assessing the neuro-functional status of the animal on a regular basis in order to appropriately treat and progress the rehabilitation program.

GOAL: PAIN RELIEFSpinal hyperaesthesia is a common clinical finding in the majority of dogs with thoracolumbar IVDD. Physiotherapy modalities such as laser, ultrasound, transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, microcurrent, or heat and ice, have been shown to have pain-relieving effects. These tools can be utilized frequently in the initial stages to improve comfort and act as an adjunct to medical management. Acupuncture has also been shown to diminish pain. Western medicine has been able to demonstrate how the application of needles to the body can target different aspects of the nervous system, endocrine system, and vascular system to result in pain relief.

GOAL: ADDRESS DISC EXTRUSION, CORD INFLAMMATION, AND SPINAL CORD REPAIRIn humans, it has been found that exposure of herniated disc material in the cervical spine to the vascular environment of the epidural space contributes to its resorption and/or regression. Large extruded discs have wider exposure to resorption mechanisms and tend to regress more rapidly. In fact the response to early therapeutic intervention in cases where there is a large extruded disc is most favourable. A technique for dachshunds could be ‘hanging traction’, whereby the owner slowly and gently picks up the dog so that the animal’s spine is against the owners chest. The owner hugs the animal and allows its hind end to hang and dangle which may traction the spine. This treatment should cease if the animal struggles or symptoms worsen.

About the AuthorLaurie Edge-Hughes co-owns and practices out of The Canine Fitness Centre Ltd. in Calgary. She also runs an educational website, www.fourleg.com, dedicated to knowledge translation in the practice of canine rehabilitation.

http://www.fourleg.com


Utilizing human and animal research, mobilizations have been shown to aid in pain relief for spinal or joint conditions. Mobilization technique selection for disc lesions in people tends to incorporate rotational components. Simply lying a dog on it’s side and slowly lifting both rear legs at a time so as to create a rotational motion in the spine can provide both pain relief and enhanced blood flow.

The modalities discussed for pain management may also play a role in directly or indirectly aiding in blood flow to the region, which could help with disc resorption but may also reduce edema and inflammation around the spinal cord. Both pulsed electro-magnetic field and laser therapy (class 3b) have been studied in animal models of spinal cord injury, and were shown to improve axonal sprouting, spinal cord repair, and motor function. A study that looked at electroacupuncture for dogs with IVDD with severe neurologic deficits (grade 4 or 5) of greater than 48 hours duration as compared to decompressive surgery found that the electroacu-puncture was significantly more effective than surgery for recovery of ambulation. Newer studies even show that intravenous trans-plantation of stem cells (bone marrow derived or adipose derived) is effective for reduced inflammation and improvement in motor function in spinal cord injured rats and dogs.

GOAL: LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENTPerhaps equally as important as what the practitioner should do, is the advisement of what the animal and owners should not do! To avoid re-injury, owners should be advised to restrict the dog to no playing, no running off leash, no jumping and no self-ambulating down stairs during the acute and intermediate stages of healing. The first two restrictions will protect against sudden twisting motions, and the latter two will inhibit forced flexion forces on the spine and discs. Flooring can make a difference too! Animals may ambulate with greater ease, confidence, and success if non-slip footing (i.e. rubber-backed throw rugs) is provided for slippery floors or other types of modifications such a booties, ToeGripsTM, or a harness. Owners should also be advised of the seriousness of the condition and the potential to progress to a more severe lesion if proper management is not undertaken in this stage.

GOAL: GROSS MOTOR STRENGTHENING AND CO-ORDINATION TRAININGGentle, non-harmful, easy exercise is imperative to healing and re-establishment of neural pathways. Controlled exercise has shown to be a clearly effective treatment for chronic low back

pain in people. Human disc patients are no longer prescribed bed rest, they are now told to walk. Therefore, once the animal is no longer painful or minimally painful and has safe motor functioning, then a leash-walking program should commence. Leash walks should start with distances and times that are within the dog’s tolerance. Swimming with a floatation vest or water walking may also accomplish this goal. A weak animal may be able to successfully walk in water due to the buoyancy of the water.

Stabilizing exercises should target the abdominals. Abdominal muscles function in maintaining static postures and can be further facilitated by rhythmic stabilization techniques. Rhythmic stabi-lization is accomplished by gently pushing the patient one way, then the other way, alternating pressures rhythmically in order to enhance muscular recruitment of core stabilizing muscles. This can be done with the dog in sternal recumbency, sitting, or standing. When able more challenging balancing exercises can be prescribed (such as balancing while standing or sitting on an exercise ball or similar piece of equipment). Progressions to this exercise can be done by lifting one leg at a time while the dog balances or having the animal take a treat from different directions, or imparting a manual perturbation. Owners should not be given these exercises unless taught how to do them safely by a person trained in canine rehabilitation.

As the dog progresses, the practitioner will need to address coor-dination problems with movement. The ataxic animal will require neuromotor re-programming. When safe to do so, animals can begin co-ordination retraining to help build balance and proprioceptive function. Tasks such as walking through weave poles, over obstacles, balancing on a raised plank of wood, backing up, and sideways walking may be incorporated into an exercise regimen to stimulate coordination training when in the dog is no longer acute and has progressed into a recovery stage. Generalized strengthening can be taken into account as well. Walking up and down hills or stairs or engaging in safe tug-of-war play may help to strengthen decondi-tioned limb muscles.

CONCLUSIONConservative management of thoracolumbar disc disease is a viable option and should be added to a veterinarian’s list of management options being presented to an owner. Practitioners trained in reha-bilitation and acupuncture can serve as a resource and referral destination for owners seeking non-surgical interventions.


A lady who is not a client comes into the clinic in tears with her young adult dog (I’ve chosen not to specify the breed). The dog, who she’s only had for 3 months, just bit her toddler in the face.

The toddler snuck up on the dog when he was sleeping and he turned and snapped at her. The dog had snapped at the toddler before but never broken skin. You question her as to whether there is any chance this is puppy play biting that has been misinterpreted as aggression. You con-clude that the bite was malicious. She says her husband won’t let the dog back in the house. He kicked the dog when the bite happened. The dog has never been to a veterinarian before.

You call the local humane society and disclose the situation. The humane society decides that they will not take the dog because of the history of aggression towards children even though it was arguably provoked. They need to protect their potential adopters. You discuss consulting a behaviourist but the owner says she doesn’t have money for that. You ask the lady if she is considering euthanising the dog. She is appalled that you would even suggest it. She decides to take the dog home and put him up for adoption on Kijiji. The dog is now going back to a volatile home where he has just been kicked and may be beaten again. The people are not going to be able to trust the dog with their children. They will try to sell him online. If they reveal that he has bitten a child in the face and broken skin, they are unlikely to find a new home for him. If they don’t disclose the information, they put the new owners at risk.

Canine aggression is when a person is injured or at clear risk of being injured. We all know that canine aggression is usually defensive behaviour but lets look at the consequence rather than the intent. Whether or not the owner caused the dog to be aggressive, you now have an aggressive dog. Aggression is often context specific and triggered by a predictable

and manageable stimulus. Most, if not all dogs with aggression issues will be fine most of the time. It is only when the particular triggers for their aggression are present that they show the unwanted behaviour. Left in the same situation, it is likely that the dog will bite the child again, and that the dog will be beaten again. If the dog is removed from that stimulus, he could do very well. This dog may make an excellent pet in the hands of an experienced owner without children. A home where the dog is taught properly how to control its aggression. However, just because an owner doesn’t have children doesn’t mean the dog will never be around children. All triggers for aggression must be avoided at all times. Owners of dogs that have shown aggression need to ask themselves if they have the resources to manage their dog: whether that be financial, personality or environmental resources. This is the heartbreaker, just because the dog could be rehabilitated in a specific environment doesn’t mean that environment is available.

When dealing with aggressive dogs, most of the time three options are available: 1. Keep the dog and work with a trainer. 2. Rehome the dog if it can be done safely and responsibly. 3. Euthanize the dog. Trainers who deal with canine aggression are few and far between. Especially those who use positive reinforcement without punishment to change the underlying behaviour rather than suppressing the reaction. Euthanizing a physically healthy dog that is happy and joyful at times is a difficult thing to suggest. Consider how intense the aggression responses have been in the past, what the triggers are and how easy it is to avoid the triggers. We can offer guidance about the prognosis and the risks for the dog but it is ultimately the clients decision. In a rare case it might be ethical to rehome a pet, rather than euthanize but in the majority of cases, I think this is often setting up another family to have to go through a heartbreaking decision themselves.

How do we as veterinarians deal with these situations when they arise? How do we protect the public as well as our patients? Is the euthanasia of aggressive dogs, no matter what the intent or extent, ethically acceptable to us as individuals? - - -In early 2015, the MVMA Council requested an Animal Welfare committee be formed. When animal welfare ideas/projects are brought to the attention of the MVMA, this committee will review and determine if there is a role for the association (i.e. concerns about veterinary care for northern animals; food animal producer procedures; spay/neuter programs; vaccination and identification programs; etc.).

News & Views will feature an article from a member of the Animal Welfare committee each issue. These articles are opinion pieces and not the position of the Animal Welfare committee or the MVMA.

Sharing these articles with members of the MVMA has two goals, one being the hope that discussions will be started and perhaps from the discussions will come change.

A second goal is for our own veterinary professionals to become informed about areas other than their own specialty. As a public contact, clients often assume that anyone working within the veterinary community is knowledgeable about all animals. The reality is that many small animal vets do not know much about large animals and vise versa.

The Animal Welfare committee welcomes your comments and encourages all members to share feedback regarding any Animal Welfare issues.Email to: [email protected]

ANIMAL WELFARECanine AggressionBy Gina Bowen

Mailto:[email protected]


An Update from

CANADIAN ANIMAL BLOOD BANK

On April16, 2016, Guardian Veterinary Centre in Edmonton, AB hosted their very first Canadian Animal Blood Bank (CABB) donor clinic. Guardian Vet is one of CABB’s top

clients; ordering 4 – 5 units of packed red cells per week (more if we have it in stock) and keeps a store of fresh frozen plasma. Jessica Foyle – Referral Coordinator booked an amazing 42 dogs for the day!

When asked, Colleen Cope, RVT/Inventory Manager and Shauna Bearchell, Senior Practice Administrator from Guardian Vet said the reason they wanted to host a donor clinic at their specialty centre was “To help raise awareness of the very important work that CABB does, to educate the public and get more ongoing donors so that dogs in need have access to blood products that are always in demand. As an emergency centre, Guardian Veterinary Centre experiences many traumas and illnesses that require blood products. This blood drive gave us the opportunity to give back. Our clients, employees, and veterinary community came together for a great day. We were extremely thrilled to have Mary and CABB NAIT affiliate Michelle come and help us with our first blood donation drive. Our volunteers all had a great time and were so proud of the 38 units that we were able to provide for CABB. We will definitely do this again in the future!”

It definitely was a very long day; the first dog arrived at 9 am and the team finished cleaning up around 8 pm. The morning was spent training the RVTs and veterinarians on CABB protocol. The afternoon had two tables running at once! I was extremely impressed (but not surprised) at how quickly the staff picked up the whole process. All the staff stated they would take away tips and tricks they will put into practice when they perform emergency collections in their clinic.

It was because of this successful collection session that word spread to Calgary. CABB has been invited to Western Veterinary Specialists in Calgary, AB June 12, 2016 and expects to be at C.A.R.E in Calgary, AB in the near future. Clinic backing across Canada is a major reason CABB is able to supply our veterinary practices and increase support in other provinces in making CABB truly Canadian! We look forward to future Alberta collections.

Mary Robinson - RAHTLaboratory CoordinatorCanadian Animal Blood BankPh: 204.632.2586 | CABB e-mail: [email protected]

Guardian Veterinary Centre



WE’RE PLEASED TO PROVIDE YOU WITH AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT THE CVMA HAS RECENTLY BEEN WORKING ON FOR YOU, OUR VALUED MEMBERS IN MANITOBA.

POLICY AND ADVOCACY

Supporting Bill C-246 “Modernizing Animals Protection Act”

The CVMA’s Animal Welfare Committee has formed a working group to explore and address issues arising from the review of Bill C-246, the Modernizing Animals Protection Act. Acting on advice from the working group, CVMA sent a letter expressing support for the Bill to each Member of Parliament. The House of Commons debated this Bill on May 9, 2016. Another two hours of debate will likely be allocated in September, where a vote will be required to move it to Committee hearings. CVMA hopes its letter to Members will aid in the passage of the Bill through the second reading, so our voice can be heard at the resulting Committee hearings. CVMA will embark upon a number of related activities in support of Bill C-246 including consulting legal advice from a lawyer regarding potential unintended consequences that might arise from the proposed leg-islation, communicating with Cabinet Ministers, and gathering feedback from species-specific veterinary groups and laboratory animal veterinarians.

Supporting the WSAVA Petition Against Ketamine’s International

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) developed the “Ketamine Campaign” to give its members the opportunity to stop the International rescheduling of ketamine. Called an “essential veterinary medicine,” it is often the only agent available for anesthesia/analgesia and the principle agent used to facilitate feral dog/cat population control via spay/neutering. The International rescheduling of ketamine would effectively eliminate its clinical use in both veteri-nary and human medicine. CVMA has asked its members to sign the petition to secure the future of ketamine at https://www.change.org/p/ketamine-is-an-essential-medicine-and-should-not-be-re-scheduled.

Revising Position Statements

The CVMA has updated the following two position statements:• Keeping Native or Exotic Wild Animals as Pets now states:

“The CVMA opposes any surgical procedures performed on these animals solely for the purpose of making the animal a safer companion.”

• Partial Digital Amputation (onychectomy, declawing) of Non-Domestic Felids and Other Carnivores Kept in Captivity now states: “The CVMA opposes the surgical removal of claws (onychectomy) of non-domestic felids and other carnivores kept in captivity, except where medically necessary for the animal’s health.”

All CVMA position statements can be found under the Policy & Advocacy section of the CVMA website.

Discussing Importation of Dogs at National Issues Forum

The CVMA has become aware that the importation of dogs from other countries under the guise of rescue efforts has greatly increased and is resulting in the appearance of unexpected pathogens into Canada. The 2016 CVMA Convention will hold its first National Issues Forum with the discussion topic on importation of dogs in Canada. Taking place on Friday, July 8, a panel of three experts will present on the subject and field questions from the audience. Con-sidering input received through member consultation prior to the Forum and feedback received at the event, CVMA will draft a new position statement on importation of dogs. CVMA will reach out to all provincial associations and regulatory bodies for input.

PRACTICE AND ECONOMICS

Creating Stronger Success with New Preliminary Surgical Assessment for DVM Candidates

The National Examining Board (NEB) is providing DVM candidates with an opportunity to assess their skills prior to undertaking a live surgery during the Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE). The NEB made this decision having observed a significant decline in

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)

ONE PROFESSION. ONE STRONG VOICE.

https://www.change.org/p/ketamine-is-an-essential-medicine-and-should-not-be-re-scheduled




passing rates for the surgery section of CPE over the last years. The NEB, with the collaboration of subject experts from the CPE sites, has developed a process to ensure candidates can demonstrate basic surgical techniques as a prerequisite for CPE registration. The PSA will become a mandatory step of the NEB process for all candidates taking the CPE starting January 1, 2017.

Special Promotion for your Summer Getaway!

Check out the CVMA hotel discount program! You’ll be entered into a draw to win your booking for free when you book your accommodations between May 1 and September 30, 2016. Go to the CVMA website and click on the ‘’Hotel Discounts’’ link under the Value of Membership tab (member log-in required) to start planning your getaway.

New Member Benefit: VetFolio® Online Education Platform for Veterinary Professionals

CVMA members can test-drive VetFolio® for a 30-day free trial period and receive a 20 per cent discount on an Individual subscription (USD $240 instead of $300) or Practice subscription (USD $432 instead of $540). In addition, Students of the CVMA are eligible for a free subscription. Be sure to contact the CVMA office to obtain your CVMA member promo code to benefit from the CVMA discounted rate or the free student subscription.

Member Benefit: Clinician’s Brief™ and Plumb’s Veterinary Drugs™

CVMA members can enjoy a free subscription to the monthly global digital edition of Clinician’s Brief™, which provides practical and diagnostic clinical information for small animal practitioners. Members can also receive special pricing of $59.50 USD on a Plumb’s Veterinary Drugs™ individual subscription (30 per cent discount from regular rate or from all pricing). Plumb’s provides access to drug dosing information from your mobile device or computer, anytime and from any location. Contact the CVMA office for information on how to take advantage of these new member benefits.

CVMA Online Education Portal

CVMA members can access over 800 eLearning sessions and education resources from veterinary experts and education institutions from around the world. Select sessions based on your refined search criteria such as specialty, accreditation, minimum duration, type of education, free or paid, and use the tracker tool to record your completed CE activities. Access these tools under the Science & Knowledge tab of canadianvet-erinarians.net.

Discussing the Profitability of a Veterinary Hospital

The profitability of a veterinary hospital, as in any business, is a product of two factors: revenue and expenses. The proceeds earned, subtracted by the amount spent to run the business, leaves the practice with their income. However, too often the focus is on the first part of this equation, boosting revenue, while neglecting expense control. Both aspects need to be targeted and improved to help grow a practice’s bottom line. Each year, the CVMA Provincial Practice Owners Economic Surveys are distributed to veterinary practices across Canada. The 2015 survey gathered data in each province on revenue, expenses, fees, employee wages, etc. Read the full article in the Business Management section under the Practice & Economics tab of the CVMA website. Please note that you will be required to log-in to the CVMA website using your CVMA password to access any practice management article.

SCIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE

2016 CVMA Convention

We invite you to make Niagara Falls your next veterinary convention destination, from July 7 to 10, 2016. Take part in the CVMA Summit on July 7 as stakeholders engage in the development of a Pan-Canadian Framework to address antimicrobial resistance. Attend the CVMA Emerging Leaders Program, sponsored by Virox Animal Health, to explore your approach to personal and professional accomplishments and your working relationship with colleagues. Find more information on the CVMA Convention and Emerging Leaders Program under the Science and Knowledge section of canadianveterinarians.net.

2016 Animal Health Week Highlights the Importance of One Health

This year’s Animal Health Week will be celebrated from October 2 to 8, 2016 and will focus on One Health, showcasing that we are working together for the health of all. CVMA invites veterinary clinics and hospitals across the country to celebrate and share the message of Animal Health + Human Health + Planet Health = One Health with their clients. Promotional merchandise and educational materials are available on the CVMA website at canadianveterinarins.net. We look forward to celebrat-ing ONE HEALTH with you! Order your promotional merchandise online at candianveterinarians.net before July 22, 2016 for a chance to win an Early Bird prize. The final order deadline is August 5, 2016.

Questions or Suggestions? Contact CVMA’s National Office at 1-800-567-2862 or [email protected], or contact your Manitoba Council Representative, Dr. Kevin Millar at 204-984-5068, or [email protected].

http://www.canadianveterinarians.net







An overweight large breed female dog presented to the clinic in rough shape. The patient had been deteriorating rapidly three days after having an emergency pyometra surgery at a different

clinic. She started vomiting within 12 hours of release from the previous clinic, and the owners noticed she was passing dark, sticky stools. She presented dehydrated, shocky, febrile, and with a painful abdomen. Radio-graphs indicated a gas pattern suggestive of an upper gastrointestinal obstruction; there was loss of abdominal detail that suggested some fluid. She had low chloride, mildly low urea, an inflammatory leukon and mild anemia.

She was started on intravenous fluids and antibiotics and went to surgery for an exploratory laparotomy. A stomach tube was passed immediately after induction and intubation (and inflation of the endotracheal tube) and close to 1 L of foul dark brown fluid was drained from the stomach. A ventral midline laparotomy was performed and 500ml of slightly bloody fluid was suctioned from the abdominal cavity. Gas filled loops of small intestine were followed to the right cranial abdominal region where it was discovered that a ligature had inadvertently been wrapped around a loop of jejunum while ligating the ovarian pedicle. The trapped

intestine had been strangulated and was starting to tear. The ligature was removed after packing off the region with moist laparotomy sponges, and the ovarian pedicle was re-ligated. The affected portion of necrotic intestine was resected, and the healthy sections were anastomosed. The rest of the abdomen was inspected. There was a large section of uterine stump that appeared necrotic, so the pedicle was re-ligated and repaired. The abdomen was lavaged and routinely closed. She recovered well with appropriate ongoing care.

The previous veterinarian was contacted immediately after surgery and informed of the situation. The veterinarian was surprised by the findings and genuinely felt terrible about the situation. This vet immediately offered to pay for all fees incurred in the treatment of the dog and asked to be informed of the patient’s progress. The surgical findings were relayed to the clients. The veterinarian who performed the surgery stressed that the original doctor had made an honest mistake performing a difficult surgery. Given the enlarged uterine horn, engorged blood vessels, and a fatty pedicle, it is comprehensible that a loop of intestine could get caught in the suture undetected. The

PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE

HONEST MISTAKES


current veterinarian explained that the original veterinarian was highly concerned for the wellbeing of the pet and had offered to cover all the expenses. All the doctors learned from the experience. The owner was satisfied that everyone was working together to ensure that their pet recovered and received the proper care. The dog made a full recovery, and the owners were thrilled to have their pet home and healthy. The client was understanding and appreciated the honesty of the veterinary professionals involved in their dog’s case. There are three pertinent considerations in this case.

The first consideration is that competent and reasonable veterinarians can make mistakes. An isolated error in judgement or practice will occur for all veterinary professionals at some time in their career. These errors fall outside the scope of unforeseen complications and adverse events that occur even when best protocols and patient care are present. The Peer Review Complaints Committee (PRCC) acknowledges that medical and surgical mistakes happen. In the event of such errors, the PRCC has the authority to review medical records, communicate with veterinary staff regarding the particular circumstances surrounding the incident, and review the clients’ understanding of their veterinarian’s actions. Veterinarians have an obligation to communicate fully and transparently in such a situation to ensure that the client has access to all pertinent information regarding the patient’s case. The PRCC also has the ability to review previous cases where the veterinarian has shown unprofessional conduct or found to be negligent in patient care. All of these submissions and types of evidence are taken into account when the PRCC investigates an individual complaint.

Members of the PRCC volunteer their time to ensure that the public and their pets are protected from unprofessional veterinary conduct. In Manitoba, the individual sub-committees of two veterinarians and one layperson review and discuss complaints using the “reasonable person” test. They use the evidence to ask whether a reasonable and competent veterinarian of similar experience and tenure would have made the same mistake under similar hospital and patient circumstances. For example, taking into account adequate professional competencies required for patient care, a veterinarian licensed for three years is not held to the same standard as a board-certified specialist with twenty years of experience. The PRCC has several avenues of recourse when an honest mistake has occurred. Where there is no pattern of unprofessional conduct, no known disregard for patient care, or attempt to obfuscate information during client communication, the PRCC may decide to recognize that a medical or surgical mistake has occurred without issuing a formal caution or other remediation against the veterinarian. A formal apology to the client may be requested. An apology allows the veterinarian to offer regrets that his or her actions contributed to a negative patient outcome; such correspondence allows transparency and a degree of closure for many clients. In some situations, the PRCC may find that continuing education or mentoring with another veterinarian could help prevent future profes-sional errors. Where there are circumstances related to a veterinarian’s physical condition, emotional illness, or substance abuse, the PRCC may have the Registrar request voluntary assessment and treatment by an appropriate medical professional.

The second consideration is the commendable professional conduct shown by the surgical veterinarian in this situation. When given the opportunity by a client to offer a second opinion or continue treatment for an ongoing condition, the new veterinarian has a professional obligation to contact the original veterinarian. This contact often allows the first veterinarian to provide context to the case. In the case where an honest mistake has been made, the conversation allows the first veterinarian to learn from the error. This transparency in communication between doctors most importantly shows clients that we are working together in a collegial manner to ensure that their animals are getting the best care possible. With the present environment of social media reviews and Facebook blasting by clients in the event of negative outcomes-no matter the reason-veterinarians must perform their due diligence in supporting the profession and their colleagues where it makes sense and is reasonable. If a veterinarian has a valid concern with regard to a first veterinarian’s treatment of a patient or client, that doctor has a duty to refer the client to the Registrar who can offer impartial information about the peer review process.

The third consideration in this case refers to the original veterinarian offering to pay the second veterinarian for the additional surgical and medical care received by the patient. In this case, the compensation contributed to client’s appreciation and trust in the first veterinarian. The first veterinarian offered this remediation outside of the peer review process and without recommendation by a specific sub-committee.

The PRCC does not have the power to determine financial compensation in the event of a medical or surgical mistake. In the past, individual committees have made recommendations regarding costs when errors have been acknowledged and accepted by the veterinarian in question. In the spring of 2015, the MVMA lawyer, Robert Dawson, offered an opinion that, as a body overseeing professional conduct, the PRCC has no authority under the Veterinary Medical Act to make specific recom-mendations regarding financial recompense.

The creation and maintenance of trust in the VCPR may be strengthened where veterinarians are open to discussing issues with clients. From time to time, this openness may include the admission of an honest mistake or even the refunding of some fees. In complaints that have been submitted to the PRCC, clients can use the civil court system to pursue financial redress where they feel a Committee decision has not gone far enough to assuage their concerns. Veterinarians do need to remember that they are not held financially responsible by the PRCC for cases where complications or adverse events have contributed to further treatment care where adequate patient care has been recognized. However, all effort must be made to ensure that clients have been informed about prognosis and additional costs associated with ongoing treatment.

Veterinarians have a responsibility to engage a client’s trust in our pro-fessional abilities and actions. Collegial communication between doctors may help to cement the good will that goes along with all parties being engaged in a patient’s well-being. Transparent and complete dialogue in the event of an honest mistake, regardless of financial consideration, goes a long way to ensuring that veterinarians maintain their status with the public as reliable and competent professionals in animal health.


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News & Views Summer 2016

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