HSVMA Presentations at Vet Schools

Current topics:

Spay Before They Stray: The Benefits of Early-Age Sterilization

Early-age spaying and neutering is the most effective means of preventing unplanned litters of kittens and puppies. The procedure is less stressful on a juvenile patient and is an easier surgery for the veterinarian to perform.

This presentation provides examples of surgical sterilization of a kitten and a puppy and includes discussions about anesthesia protocols, surgical techniques and recovery factors, as well as video clips.

"Just wanted to say the presentation was great and a real success for HSVMA." Allison Pang, Western Health Sciences University Class of 2011

The Inconvenient Truth about Cosmetic and Convenience Surgeries on Cats and Dogs

	Dr. Barbara Hodges speaks to a group of students at Western University. ©HSVMA

Convenience surgeries, such as cat declawing, ear cropping and tail docking, have no medical benefit, but are still performed by many veterinarians.

This presentation reviews these procedures and explains some of their negative side effects. It also includes information about alternatives and how to effectively explain them to clients.

"…the lecture was a great success! We had over 100 students attend! So this is definitely something I'd like to do again next semester." Nicole Putney, Washington State Class of 2011

Feline Frenzy: The Veterinarian's Role in Solving the Feral Cat Overpopulation Crisis

The veterinary community plays a critical role in helping solve the cat overpopulation crisis by participating in trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs and providing accurate information on feral cat health and wildlife impacts.

This presentation summarizes our current understanding of feral cat management and reviews the elements of a successful feral cat spay/neuter clinic.

"Just wanted to let you know that our first HSVMA talk was today and we all felt it went over really well! Dr. Cheever is a very engaging speaker…" Mehnaz Aziz, Tufts Class of 2012

Doing Well Because You're Doing Good: How Helping Animals Can Help Your Bottom Line

A growing concern for animal welfare and increasing public appreciation for positive social impact by veterinarians means that involvement in community animal welfare activities and the operation of a profitable practice need not be mutually exclusive.

This presentation provides case studies of veterinarians who have sustained profitable practices while focusing on essential therapeutic services, such as low-cost sterilization, declining to perform cosmetic surgeries, and working with rescue groups and shelters.

"The talk went very well today! Dr. Cheever was excellent!" Amanda McCullough, University of Pennsylvania Class of 2011

Puppy Mills and Irresponsible Dog Breeding: Fertile Ground for Canine Health Concerns

The expansive puppy mill industry raises many animal health and welfare concerns.

This presentation showcases the common health problems seen in dogs bred in these environments and provides information on the genetic disorders known to occur in particular dog breeds.

"Just wanted to let you know that the puppy mill presentation went very well and we had a wonderful turn out!" Alison Liu, Iowa State Class of 2011

On the Front Line: The Veterinarian's Role in Recognizing, Reporting and Preventing Animal Cruelty

As an animal advocate and veterinary professional, one of the most important tasks you may undertake is recognizing and reporting animal abuse and cruelty.

This presentation will provide guidance on recognizing animal abuse and neglect, understanding the veterinary professional's responsibilities in reporting these cases to the appropriate authorities, and preventing abuse in the community.

Looking for Your First Job: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (an opinionated, but honest view)

Note that at this time, this talk is only available to schools on the EAST coast.

You’ve graduated from veterinary school…now what? This talk will cover factors to consider during your job search—including welfare issues you may want to ask about during your interview—the advantages and disadvantages of corporate medicine and the different compensation packages you may be offered. Best suited for third- and fourth- year students.

Are DVMs Patient Advocates? Prioritizing Conflicts of Interest in Clinical Practice

Note that at this time, this talk is only available to schools on the WEST coast.

Veterinarians are often faced with conflicts between the desire to help animals and the clients' difficulties in meeting the increasing costs of our medical care, as well as our employer’s policies and expectations. This interactive talk will help you consider the conflicts you will likely face as a practicing veterinarian trying to balance competing interests.

Request a Presentation at Your School

Information needed in the requests is: 1) presentation topic and 2) proposed date(s) and time (i.e., lunch or evening talk).

Priority scheduling will be granted to schools with HSVMA Student Chapters. Please send your request to Erin Luebkeman, HSVMA Student Outreach Coordinator.