Friday Sessions - September 25

Sessions will begin at 8:00am
Click on the sessions below for detailed times, topic titles and descriptions.
Companion Animal Morning Session - Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health
Summit Ag Hall 1st Floor (formerly Benton)

8:00-9:00am -Chronic Cough in the Dog - This presentation includes practical approaches to selecting the most appropriate vaccination strategy to protect dogs from CIRD - Dr. Richard Ford
This presentation centers on one of the most common, yet under-diagnosed, respiratory conditions in adult dogs: chronic lower airway disease.  When the cough is determined NOT to be associated with pneumonia, neoplasia, or cardiac disease, chronic airway disease is a key consideration.  The presentation focuses on practical diagnostic strategies and long-term management considerations designed to prevent potentially serious complications associated with chronic cough and lower airway collapse. 

9:00-9:30am - BREAK

9:30-10:30am - Feline Viral Upper Respiratory Disease…Why it Persists!…and what to do about it - Dr. Richard Ford
Despite the routine use of vaccines against viral upper respiratory disease in cats (feline herpesvirus-1 and calicivirus) these 2 viruses are still recognized as the cause of over 90% of respiratory disease affecting cats.  While acute-onset feline viral upper respiratory disease is commonly seen among kittens housed in multiple cat household/shelters…it is the adult chronic carrier cat that poses the greatest threat to the population of susceptible cats and kittens.  This presentation addresses the clinical identification of chronic carrier cats (you see them regularly in practice), long term management options, and the role of vaccination in preventing infection…Why are so many cats infected…yet so many cats are vaccinated?  Just how effective are FHV-FCV vaccines??

10:30-11:30am - FeLV & FIV:  How Real is the Threat - Dr. Richard Ford
This clinical update stresses several key issues pertaining to the diagnosis, management, and prevention of retroviral infections (FeLV & FIV) in the cat.  Emphasis is placed on long-term patient management as it relates to pathogenesis of infection, interpretation of diagnostic test results, the practical side of FeLV vaccination decisions, and (new) use and interpretation of the latest testing platform to assess prognosis the FeLV-infected patient.
 
Small Ruminant
Room 250-252

8:00-9:00am - Small Ruminant Milk Quality Basics Part 1 - Dr. Michelle Buckley
Introduction to the nuances of small ruminant dairy production and milk quality management. Emphasis will be on differences between species and comparison with bovine dairy production.

9:00-10:00am - Small Ruminant Milk Quality Part 2 - Dr. Michelle Buckley
A case-based approach to milk quality investigations in small ruminant flocks and herds.

10:00-10:30am – BREAK

10:30-11:30am - Antimicrobial Selection for Small Ruminants - Dr. Michelle Buckley
The pros and cons of using the Minnesota Easy Culture tri-plate system and how to navigate them.

LUNCH 11:30-1:00pm

1:00-1:30 pm - The Daily Bleat - Dr. Allison Vander Plaats
Managing Common Small Ruminant “Sick Animal” Appointments

1:30-2:00pm - Ewe Got This - Dr. Allison Vander Plaats
Pregnancy & Obstetrics in Small Ruminants

2:00-2:15pm – BREAK

2:15-3:15pm No Kid Left Behind - Dr. Allison Vander Plaats
Small Ruminant Neonatal Care

3:15-3:45pm - Adding Small Ruminants to Your Practice - Dr. Allison Vander Plaats
Practice tips for small ruminant medicine.

3:45 - 4:15pm - Sheep Happens - Dr. Allison Vander Plaats
Managing common small ruminant emergencies in the field.

Equine 
Room 260-262

8:00-9:00am - Management of Equine Endometritis - From Routine to Complex Cases - Dr. Theresa Beachler
Infectious endometritis is one of the most common causes of infertility in the mare.  This presentation will discuss common clinical findings in mares with infectious endometritis, performance of diagnostics for accurate detection, and treatment options for both common and complex cases.

9:00-9:30am - BREAK

9:30-10:30am - Update on Advanced Reproductive Techniques - When to consider other options when routine breeding management is unsuccessful - Dr. Theresa Beachler
Advanced reproductive techniques used in the mare range from the commonly performed routine artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization for the creation of embryos. This presentation will review different advanced reproductive techniques and highlight scenarios of mares who may benefit from their performance.

10:30-11:30am - Equine Placentitis- Diagnosis and Management - Dr. Theresa Beachler
Equine placentitis remains one of the most common causes of late-term pregnancy loss in the mare. This presentation will review the different types of placentitis that can occur, diagnostics available for confirmation of each, and treatment options to prolong pregnancy and improve neonatal viability and ultimate outcome.

LUNCH 11:30-1:00pm

1:00-1:30pm - Enteral Fluids in Equine Practice: How, When, Why - and When not to Intravenous fluids are not always the best, or only option - Dr. Marcarena Sanz
This practical session will review the indications, benefits, limitations, and techniques of enteral fluid therapy in horses. Learn when enteral fluids are appropriate, how to administer them effectively, and when alternative approaches may lead to better clinical outcomes.

1:30-2:00pm - A Field Approach to Foal Pneumonia - Dr. Marcarena Sanz
Foal pneumonia is a common cause of illness and death in young horses. This practical session will review the most important causes of pneumonia from birth to weaning, with a focus on field diagnosis, treatment decisions, and prevention strategies.

2:00-2:15pm – BREAK

2:15-2:45pm - Less is more? New perspectives on Rhodococcus equi Management - Dr. Marcarena Sanz
New insights show many foals with abscesses don’t need R. equi treatment. Join us to explore smarter diagnostics, reduced drug use, lower costs, and resistance conscious management.

2:45-3:15pm - Managing a Strangles Outbreak on the Farm - Dr. Marcarena Sanz
When strangles hits, preparation matters. This session covers rapid detection, targeted isolation, and farm wide protocols to control spread and minimize disruption.

3:15pm- Depart for Tour of ISU CVM Equine Facilities

Veterinary Technician Morning Session 
Room 167-179 

8:00-9:00am - Communications Tips for Working with All Behavioral Styles - Karlene Belyea, MBA
In any workplace or school, individuals bring diverse behavioral styles to the table. Some are fast-paced and dominant, while others may be detail-oriented and more methodical. Some employees are sensitive and people-focused, while others are driven by tasks and results. Often, these differences can lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and frustration. In this session, participants will explore the core principles of behavioral styles through the Everything DiSC® Workplace model. They will gain a deeper understanding of their own unique style and learn how to recognize the styles of others in their workplace. By uncovering strategies for effective communication, participants will learn how to navigate and resolve conflicts more easily, foster collaboration, and adapt their approach to better connect with colleagues across all styles. By the end of the session, participants will have practical tools to improve interpersonal interactions, build stronger working relationships, and create a more positive and productive work environment where healthy communication thrives.

9:00-10:00am - Squad Goals: Creating Positive Connections in a Multi-Generational Work Force - Karlene Belyea, MBA
With five generations currently represented in today’s workplace, differences in communication styles, values, and expectations can create both challenges and opportunities. This engaging and interactive session explores the defining characteristics of each generation while highlighting common preferences around communication, feedback, and workplace culture. Through relatable examples and light-hearted discussion, participants will examine how generational misunderstandings can impact collaboration, morale, and performance. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to strengthen cross-generational communication, reduce conflict, and build more positive, productive workplace relationships.

10:00-10:30am – BREAK

10:30-11:30am - How to Embrace Your Inner Sloth: Techniques for Controlling Stress & Anxiety - Karlene Belyea, MBA
In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety are all too common. But even amidst the hustle, it’s possible to slow down and embrace moments of relaxation – just like your inner sloth! This session will guide you through simple yet effective techniques for reducing stress, letting go of worries about the future, and regaining control over negative thoughts and emotions. You’ll learn how to live more in the present moment, ask for help when needed, and confidently say "no" without guilt. Life doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with practical, actionable strategies and wellness tips – many of which can be implemented in as little as 60 seconds to improve your overall well-being and enhance your day-to-day life.


Practice Management Afternoon Session
Room 167-179

1:00-2:00pm - Body Language for Building Personal and Professional Success - Karlene Belyea, MBA
Did you know that 93% of communication does not come from the words you say to your coworkers and clients? Communication begins before you even begin speaking! In this entertaining presentation, learn how to convey trust, competence, empathy, and charisma by leveraging the signals you’re sending others through body language, word choice, and vocal inflection. We will discuss how to read others and communicate better using posture, body orientation, gestures, eye contact/movement, proxemics, tone of voice and more. You will be able to dial up your warmth and competence cues to help you achieve success in all areas of your life. This session will show you how to build rapport, confidence, and credibility. You will learn to catch and address the 7 universal micro-expressions and know what to do to have greater influence. We will discuss how to use words, phrases and vocal inflection to increase influence and likability. You will leave with strategies to help you successfully talk to and create meaningful personal and professional relationships.

2:00-2:15pm – BREAK

2:15-3:15pm -Communication Tips to Positively Impact Relationships and Build Trust - Karlene Belyea, MBA
In today’s workplace, effective communication is the key to building trust and fostering strong relationships. This fast-paced session will provide you with practical tips for working more effectively with others. You’ll learn how to improve your active listening skills for deeper connection, explore how to encourage productive complaining and communicate empathy using the heart-head-heart model, with real-world examples. Additionally, we’ll cover essential topics such as managing and de-escalating challenging people, understanding emotional contagion, and discovering how to create a positive ripple effect that enhances both team dynamics and relationships.

3:15-4:15pm - Brain Training and Neuroscience: Well-Being Starts in Your Mind - Karlene Belyea, MBA
Do you often find yourself overthinking or making snap decisions that you later regret? Your brain’s natural tendencies, such as reacting from the "reptilian brain," may be influencing these patterns. In this session, you will learn how to break free from automatic responses, recognize your triggers, and create positive, healthy rituals to boost your well-being. Through neuroscience and brain training, we can rewire our thinking and improve our mental fitness. By engaging in mindfulness practices and happiness-enhancing techniques, you’ll tap into your brain's remarkable plasticity, keeping it in top shape for better emotional resilience and mental clarity. We’ll also dive into practical strategies for:
•Reducing procrastination and overcoming common mental blocks
•Lowering stress by reducing cortisol and fostering a healthier mind and body
•Evaluating the myths around multitasking and its impact on productivity
This session will equip you with the tools to improve both your thinking and productivity—whether at work or in your personal life—and help you cultivate a mindset that supports happiness, focus, and success.

Federal Accreditation Afternoon Session
Room 275

1:00-2:00pm - Module 38: Role of Category I Animals in Foreign Animal Disease (FAD) Introduction and Transmission - Dr. Andrea Holmes
This module explores the complex relationship between the accredited veterinarian, Category I animals, and foreign animal diseases. Several foreign animal diseases associated with Category I animals are discussed. Also discussed are the impacts of foreign animal diseases and the importance of mitigating those impacts. Resources to help accredited veterinarians keep current on foreign animal disease situations worldwide are provided.

2:00-2:15pm - BREAK

2:15-3:15pm - Module 34: Veterinary Export Health Certificate System (VEHCS) - Dr. Bailey Goos
This module provides the accredited veterinarian with information about the functionality of the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS). It demonstrates the extent to which it can be used and describes how to access and use the VEHCS.

3:15-4:15pm - Module 3: Overview of Foreign Animal, USDA Program, and Reportable Diseases - Dr. Jessica Young
This module introduces readers to a variety of foreign animal, USDA Program, and reportable diseases and contains a list of which diseases are applicable to Category I and Category II accredited veterinarians. Information about reporting diseases and the steps in a foreign animal disease investigation are provided. Details about additional training opportunities for accredited veterinarians are also included along with a multitude of resources and learning opportunities to stay informed about these diseases.

Bovine Liver Biopsy Wetlab
2 Morning Sessions
Off Site – location TBD
8:00-9:30am & 9:30-11:00am - Dr. Scott Radke
The wetlab provides a demonstration of the liver biopsy procedure as well as allowing participating veterinarians to perform the procedure. This session is for Veterinarians only.


Become an IVMA Member