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In this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Dr. Melanie Hnot, a specialist in veterinary dermatology. In their conversation, she shares her journey in veterinary medicine and discusses the importance of dermatology in pet care. She explains common skin conditions in pets, the role of primary care veterinarians, and the complexities of diagnosing and managing allergies. Dr. Hnot also highlights new treatments for your pet's skin irritation and emphasizes the importance of collaboration between pet owners and veterinarians in managing skin diseases.

Dr. Melanie Hnot, VMD, DACVD, is a board-certified veterinary dermatologist at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital in South Florida, where she collaborates with local general practice veterinarians to provide comprehensive dermatological care for pets. Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, ear, and allergy-related conditions, Dr. Hnot is dedicated to improving the quality of life for pets with chronic and severe dermatological issues.
Dr. Hnot received her veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania before completing a small animal medicine and surgery internship at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in New Jersey. She further honed her expertise through a dermatology internship across practices in NJ and PA, culminating in a dermatology residency and a Master of Science degree from The Ohio State University in 2015.
Her clinical focus includes the management of allergic diseases and ear infections (otitis), common but often complex conditions in veterinary medicine. She offers advanced diagnostics and treatment options such as allergy testing and immunotherapy, particularly for pets suffering from atopic dermatitis.
When not at the hospital, Dr. Hnot enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with her family, which includes her lively greyhound, Jagger. Her personal love for animals complements her professional commitment to delivering top-tier care.

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Happy Veterinary Technician Week! On his episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Kim Dudder, Regional Technician Director for VCA's Mid-Atlantic Region. Listen in as she discusses her transition from early childhood education to becoming a credentialed veterinary technician. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, team dynamics, and the role of regional technician directors in optimizing patient care. Kim also highlights the significance of healthcare documentation and the Scribe program, as well as her collaboration with Harcum College and the Upward Bound program to engage and educate future veterinary professionals. Their conversation touches on the need for diversity in the field and the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of veterinary medicine. For more information on how Harcum College and Upward Bound created a pipeline for new Vet Nurses, check out this video. 

Kim is a Certified Veterinary Technician residing in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Kim has been in veterinary medicine for 27 years with her clinical career focused on Emergency Medicine. She joined the VCA family in 2001 and has held many roles in VCA hospitals throughout her career. Kim is currently a Regional Technician Director for hospitals in the Mid-Atlantic Region. In her role as Regional Technician Director, she works with different teams in multiple aspects such as medical protocols, efficiency, training and her favorite aspect, mentoring Technician leaders on each team. This combines her passion for teaching and for veterinary medicine. Kim also has opportunities to engage with several Veterinary Technician Programs in her region working with new students and sitting on advisory boards to guide the next generation of Veterinary Technicians. Her goal is to encourage people to see that being a Veterinary Technician is an amazing career and to educate them on the numerous career paths that open up for credentialed technicians.

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Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome her long time friend and colleague, Dr. Karen Kline to the podcast. Dr. Kline has been the Medical Director and associate neurologist at the Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle and is currently an associate neurologist and past Medical Director at VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists in Portland, Oregon. 

Dr. Kline is also an associate professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery at WSU CVM. She will be working part time at WSU and also at her home base of Northwest Veterinary Specialists. She has published multiple journal articles, has been an author in several veterinary textbooks, has spoken at local, national and international meetings and is currently serving as President of the NAVC. 

Dr. Kline brings with her a passion for teaching and clinical service. When not in the clinic, Dr. Kline enjoys the treasures of the Pacific Northwest as well as spending time with her husband Karl and their terrific dog, Voodie.

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Aaron Frazier, the Chief Operating Officer of VCA Animal Hospitals. Listen in as he shares his career journey and the importance of collaborating with strong industry partners to improve veterinary healthcare. In their conversation, Aaron emphasizes the need for a healthy partnership between medical and business operations to drive quality medicine and ensure business success. He also highlights the importance of empowering teams to come up with innovative ideas. Aaron believes that by staying grounded in our values and supporting our Associates, VCA can weather any challenges that come our way.

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In this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Adi Oz and Dr. Negeen Najafi discuss their unique journeys in veterinary medicine and their decision to pursue internships. They share their experiences in veterinary school, their interest in different specialties, and the process of finding a small animal rotating internship program. In their conversation with Dr. Kerl, they discuss the challenges and rewards of being veterinary interns, including the transition from an academic setting to real-world practice, learning client communication skills, and building confidence as primary clinicians. They also share some of their favorite cases and the misconceptions they had about internships. 

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April is Heartworm Awareness Month in veterinary medicine and in light of this important issue for pets and pet owners, Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Dr. Tom Nelson to the podcast. Dr. Nelson is the hospital director of the VCA Animal Medical Center of Northeast Alabama and has been in private practice for 45 years. Dr. Nelson is also an expert on heartworm disease and how to effectively diagnosis, treat, and prevent it in dogs and cats.

For more information on resources mentioned in the podcast, please follow the link below:

American Heartworm Society 

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In this episode, Dr. Kerl welcomes Rachel Turner, a credentialed veterinary technician and one of the managers of virtual care services for VCA. Rachel shares her journey in veterinary medicine, from starting as a part-time veterinary technician to joining the virtual care team at VCA. She discusses VCA Live Chat, which supports our clients through medical triage and education 24 hours every day. Rachel also highlights the qualities she looks for in team members and the resources available to virtual care technicians, such as the Knowledge Base. 

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Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Dr. Lore Haug to the podcast. In their conversation, they chat about Dr. Haug's journey in Veterinary Medicine, what led to her role as an Animal Behavior Specialist, and some helpful insights for new owners of puppies and kittens.

Please check out the links below for further information on topics mentioned in the podcast:

American College of Veterinary Behaviorists https://www.dacvb.org

American Association of Feline Practitioners https://catvets.com

Fear Free Happy Homes https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior https://avsab.org

The Pet Professional Guild https://www.petprofessionalguild.com

International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants https://iaabc.org

Karen Pryor academy https://karenpryoracademy.com

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Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Dr. Sharon Mix and Dr. Sydney Stein to the podcast for an intriguing episode about a rare case of rabies in Nebraska and the public health response that has taken place as a result of this case. 

Dr. Mix is the Medical Director of VCA Animal Medical Center of Omaha and Dr. Stein is an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer for the CDC.  Throughout their conversation, they cover the key role of primary care veterinarians as the “first line of defense in public health” and that it takes vigilance to make a rare diagnosis. Rabies is a significant public health concern, is endemic in wild animals, has no cure, and keeping pets current on rabies vaccination is a crucial step to protect both pets and people. They discuss the differences in the wild animal reservoirs for rabies in the US and why the Omaha case was alarming.

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Welcome to season three of the VCA Voice Podcast! February is Dental Health Month in Veterinary Medicine and in light of this, Dr. Kerl is delighted to welcome Dr. Cindy Koons. Dr. Koons is a Regional Medical Director for VCA in the Mountain Southwest Group and is passionate about promoting dental health, which contributes to overall patient health. 

Listen in as they discuss Dr. Koons' lifelong journey in Veterinary Medicine, the joys and challenges in her role as an RMD,  and her experience educating colleagues and clients about sustainable oral health in pets.   

For more information about dental health resources mentioned in the podcast, please visit VOHC.org 

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Listen in as Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Phil Padrid, Senior Regional Medical Director for Specialty Hospitals for VCA Animal Hospitals. With the beginning of a new year, it's a great time to reflect on years past and Dr. Padrid has enjoyed a meaningful and fulfilling career that began as a nurse practitioner for human critical care before becoming a veterinarian, and completing training as a fellow in pulmonology, working as a faculty member in a medical school, and owning a specialty practice prior to becoming a regional medical director with VCA. In addition to leading specialty hospitals, Dr. Padrid is a world-renowned authority on pulmonary disease and is credited with introducing into the veterinary profession the use of inhaled medications to treat pulmonary disease in dogs and cats. 

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Ibrahim Abe Al-Murjan, VCA's Vice President of Digital Product. In this fascinating conversation, Abe recounts the start of his career journey within VCA that eventually led to his current role overseeing an incredibly talented team of associates that are leading the way in developing veterinary industry technology that seamlessly integrates communication within our hospitals and positively effects our clients, patients, and associates. 

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In this conversation recognizing and celebrating our Latinx Associates, Michelle Gonzalez shares her extensive journey in veterinary medicine, detailing her rise from kennel attendant to Senior Regional Operations Director at VCA. She and Dr. Kerl discuss the challenges and rewards of managing multiple hospitals, the importance of mentorship, and the need for diversity and inclusion in the field. Michelle emphasizes community engagement, breaking down language barriers in veterinary care, and offers valuable advice for those aspiring to leadership roles in veterinary medicine.

Michelle has over 30 years in the veterinary industry.  She began her career as a kennel attendant in a boarding facility and is now a Senior Regional Operations Director supporting two amazing Regional Operations Directors with multiple hospitals in three states. She is an advocate for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), serving as Co-lead on the VCA Latinx Associate Resource Group and has served on the DEI Commission for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC). She earned her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certification in 2010 and is an active member of the Veterinary Hospital Manager’s Association (VHMA). She served on the Board of Directors for 12 years and is a Past-President for the VHMA. Currently, she is attending the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University (ASU).

Please check out the links mentioned in this episode:

LatinX Veterinary Medical Association

Lionbridge

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Patricia Dettlinger.
Dr. Dettlinger is the VCA North Atlantic Regional Medical Director and an adjunct professor at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. She has been instrumental in the North Atlantic region's unique partnership with Monty Tech that is helping take care of the future of Veterinary Medicine. Tune in to hear more about Trish's fascinating journey in veterinary medicine and how she is investing in the next generation of veterinary industry leaders. 

Here is more information on VCA's partnership with Monty Tech, as mentioned in the episode. 

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Please join Dr. Kerl as she welcomes Dr. Diccon Westworth to the podcast. Dr. Westworth is a veterinary neurologist working in private practice in California and is leading efforts in the clinical sustainability domain to facilitate bringing people together and uniting them with a single purpose of fighting the existential problem that threatens us all - anthropogenic climate change; and most importantly highlighting methods to limit our ecological footprints, so we can all flourish sustainably. 

In their conversation, they also talk about practical steps everyone can take to help diminish their carbon footprint in day to day life. For resources mentioned in the episode, please check out the links below: 

Carbon Calculator- personal:

https://coolclimate.berkeley.edu/calculator

Carbon calculator vet practice- UK

https://vetsustain.org/work/vet-sustain-carbon-calculator

Procurement Guide from Colorado State

https://colostate.pressbooks.pub/veterinaryprocurementguide/

Veterinary Sustainability Alliance- US/Canada

https://veterinarysustainabilityalliance.org

Vet Sustain UK - Carbon Literacy course

https://learn.vetsustain.org/pages/carbon-literacy-for-veterinary-professionals

Vets for Climate Action Australia - Climate Care course

https://www.vfca.org.au/climatecare

Books: 

- https://www.kimnicholas.com/under-the-sky-we-make.html

- https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Saving-Us/Katharine-Hayhoe/9781982143848

- https://global.oup.com/academic/product/greening-health-care-9780199385836?cc=us&lang=en&

- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9781118342527

- https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/edit/10.1201/9781003149774/climate-change-animal-health-craig-stephen-colleen-duncan

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Join in the conversation as Dr. Kerl welcomes Jose Limon, a hospital manager for VCA's West Coast region and an army veteran currently in active duty military service. Jose's incredible career journey started with VCA at the West Los Angeles Veterinary Medical Group in 1990 when VCA consisted of only three hospitals. Between 1990 and 1996, Jose was promoted from runner to Tech Assistant, to Veterinary Assistant, to Tech Lead, to Tech Supervisor. In 1996, Jose was offered the position of Director of Technical Services. For the next 5 years, Jose worked in support of all matters related to Tech Support team members and hospital inventory.

After the September 11th attacks, Jose joined the Army as an Active-Duty Aviator providing support through the use of the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. He served two rotations through Iraq between 2004 - 2007 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2017, after 15 years away, Jose returned to the West LA Animal Hospital as the Director of Operations and later that year was offered the role of Hospital Administrator. Today, Jose can be found at the VCA West Coast Specialty Emergency Animal Hospital in Fountain Valley, CA. 
Jose continues to serve our nation with the Army Reserves based out of Los Alamitos, CA. His current role is that of a MEDEVAC Aviator providing support in theater and state-side operations.

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Listen in as Dr. Kerl welcomes Lorrie Nimsgern, Senior Regional Vice President of VCA's Heartland Group. In their conversation, Lorrie shares her exciting journey over her 37 years in veterinary medicine, from her beginnings as a receptionist, experience as a hospital manager, and her role as Regional Operations Director, leading primary care, specialty, and emergency hospitals. In addition to her many professional talents, Lorrie has published an award-winning book and in her free time enjoys gardening, quilting, American history, reading, and spending time with her husband and two dogs.

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In celebration of Vet Tech Week, Dr. Kerl welcomes Ashley Byrne, LVT, CVT and Regional Technician Director for VCA's Northwest/Hawaii Region.  In this episode, they discuss Ashley's 20 year long career in Veterinary Medicine and how her role has evolved over time, from her training as a technician, early days of growth with VCA,  and her work with the Washington State Tech Association. 

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Listen in as Dr. Kerl chats with Dr. Michele Chin about her fascinating work as a career-long ER Veterinarian and her role as an intern director. For more information on the resources Dr. Chin mentions in the episode, check out the links below:

North Hollywood High School Zoo Magnet Center

Zoo Magnet Alumni

VCA Emergency Animal Hospital and Referral Center

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Susan Zobler to the podcast to discuss her work as one of VCA's first RMDs and as an ABVP boarded individual. They also chat about Dr. Zobler's various non-work activities of regular travel and orchid collection, emphasizing the importance of having a life outside of work in our profession both for veterinarians and technicians.

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At VCA, we love to celebrate our veterinary technicians and highlight the valuable work they do within our animal hospitals. On the podcast, Dr. Kerl invites Julie Drinkwater, a Regional Technician Director with VCA to share her personal and professional journey. They discuss the importance of leadership training and support for technician supervisors and technician managers, as well as the ins and outs of becoming a credentialed veterinary technician. 

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Join Dr. Kerl in an interview with Michelle Taylor as they discuss the secret lives of customer service representatives within VCA. In their conversation, they chat about the vital role CSRs play in keeping the day to day communication channels of an animal hospital running smoothly. 

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Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome to Dr. Kristin MacDonald as they chat about her role as a Clinical Cardiologist at the VCA Animal Care Center of Sonoma County, CA. 
Dr. MacDonald has served as section editor for Handbook of Small Animal Practice, published a multitude of original research papers, and is coauthor of The Textbook of Feline Cardiology, the only text of its kind available. Dr. MacDonald has also participated in clinical trials involving treatment of canine congestive heart failure, and enjoys being the lecturer for the VCA Cardiology Series in the United States.

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In this conversation with Dr. Kerl, JoLynn Haller and Kathryn (Kat) Carman discuss their individual journeys in veterinary medicine and their roles as Veterinary Technician Specialists (VTS) in Clinical Practice. The VTS in Clinical Practice is the technician specialty for veterinary technicians in primary care practice. 
JoLynn shares her experience as a technician supervisor at VCA Fairmount Animal Hospital in Syracuse, New York, while Kat discusses her role as the surgery team lead at VCA Braylon Village Animal Hospital in Peachtree City, Georgia. They explain the differences between veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and kennel help in a veterinary hospital. JoLynn and Kat also provide insights into the VTS credentialing process and the importance of continuous learning in the field. They chat about the value of specialized knowledge and skills in providing the best patient care, highlight the role of mentors in their journey, and the benefits of pursuing VTS certification. 

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This week, Dr. Kerl welcomes two leaders from VCA Charities, a nonprofit organization started by VCA to bring the joy of pet ownership to people by helping pets find and remain in loving homes. Kimberly West is board president and chair of VCA Charities board of directors. She is also Vice President of Corporate Affairs at VCA Animal Hospitals. Diana Duncan is also on the board of directors for VCA Charities and serves as Group Vice President for the South Atlantic, which includes 94 hospitals in 11 states. To learn more about VCA Charities, visit VCACharities.org or find us on Instagram and Linkedin. 

For an easy way to donate, text GIVE to 213-325-1919

For more information on resources mentioned in the podcast, please use the links below:

Mars Better Together Fund

Boop my Nose

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Christy Bell, DVM, Director of Talent Acquisition and Co-lead of VCA's Pride Diversity Resource Group (DRG). In this episode of the VCA Voice podcast, they chat about Dr. Bell's role with and support of the Pride DRG, her personal and professional experiences in veterinary medicine, and her role leading student recruiting for VCA. 

For more information on resources mentioned in the podcast, check out the link below: 

Remedy: Atlanta Human Society

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At VCA, we are always innovating and pushing to evolve how care is delivered, expanding access to care for pets and their owners and improving the experience of professionals in the field. Part of this work includes celebrating our Associates that excel in teaching and training others to do the same. On this episode of the VCA Voice, Dr. Kerl interviews Julie Antonellis, program director of the VCA Vet Tech Academy. She is a veterinary technologist and veterinary technician specialist in emergency and critical care. Julie also serves on the board of directors for the Connecticut Veterinary Technician Association. Julie is committed to the education, development, and advancement of veterinary technicians. 

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At VCA, we’re caring for the future of veterinary medicine. One important way to stay connected with that future is to hear from students working to become future veterinary professionals. On this episode, Dr. Kerl welcomes veterinary medicine student Ashley Lavender. Ashley’s interest in veterinary medicine was sparked at a young age through her parents, Dr. Patti Lavender and Dr. Todd Lavender, president, VCA Animal Hospitals. Ashley immersed herself in the world of animals while growing up, through volunteering with rescue groups and working at veterinary clinics. She has gained valuable experience at various small animal general practices as well as a zoological medicine department. Through these experiences, her interest and dedication to the veterinary field have grown.

For more information on the resources mentioned in the podcast, please visit the links below:

VMCAS: Veterinary Medical College Application Services

Student Doctor Network

Quizlet Study Tool

AAVMC Cost Comparison Tool

Vet Info Network

Not One More Vet Movement

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Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Kizzy English, DVM. Dr. English began her career as a shelter veterinarian, then joined the VCA family at VCA Southeast Area Animal Hospital in Denver and later became Medical Director of VCA Fort Collins. She and her team recently opened VCA Urgent Care-Fort Collins next door to the primary care practice. In addition to leading those two hospitals, Dr. Kizzy has assumed the role of Lead Area Medical Director for IdeaPark, part of VCA's Innovation Group. She is inspired by VCA’s comprehensive service offering, which fosters a continuity of world-class care and the best possible patient experiences.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Garrett Lewis, Chief Operating Officer for VCA Animal Hospitals. In their conversation, Garrett shares his career journey in the world of business that has led to his current position at VCA. They also discuss exciting new innovations within the world of veterinary medicine that benefit patients, clients, and associates. 

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Rocky McKelvey, DVM.​ ​In their conversation, they cover everything from mentorship to parasite prevention. Over the past 25 years, ​Dr. McKelvey ​has seen tremendous change in not only the veterinary profession, but the perception of VCA and the concept of centralized ownership.​ ​He enjoys seeing young veterinarians become experts and leaders in the industry and is a strong advocate of the VCA Academy New Graduate Mentorship Program.​ 

For more information on parasites in pets, please visit the websites below:

Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC)

The Pet Owner's Parasite Resource

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Zachary Wright, DVM DACVIM (oncology), Chair of the VCA Pet CancerCare Alliance , Medical Director-  VCA Animal Diagnostic Clinic. In their fascinating conversation, Dr. Wright discusses the joys and challenges of working as a Veterinary Oncologist, as well as his journey with VCA.

For more information on the VCA Pet CancerCare Alliance, please visit: Vcahospitals.com/vca-pet-cancer-alliance

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dennis Keith DVM, DACVR. In addition to taking on the role as Regional Director for VCA's Southwest Region, Dr. Keith specializes in radiology, ultrasound, and the development of CT as a clinical useful modality for use within the Veterinary Industry. As an advocate of Hands Free Radiology, Dr. Keith is leading meaningful change to patient experience, Associate safety, and medical outcomes.

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Scott Shaw DVM, DACVECC. Dr. Shaw is a Specialty Regional Medical Director and the Director of Patient Safety for VCA.  In their conversation, he details the importance of understanding how patient safety events happen in veterinary hospitals and developing systems to improve the safety of patient care. 

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We are celebrating our 50th episode of the VCA Voice Podcast with special guest Dr. Todd Lavender! Join Dr. Kerl and Dr. Lavender, former VCA president and current Chief Transformation Officer at Mars Veterinary Health, as they discuss his journey in veterinary medicine and his passion for the profession. In their conversation, Dr. Lavender emphasizes the importance of supporting and mentoring veterinary students and the vital role of veterinary technicians in the profession. He also talks about the entrepreneurial spirit at VCA and the ability to rapidly address unmet needs, during and after the global pandemic. Dr. Lavender encourages listening and being open to different perspectives as a way to understand and care for the future of veterinary medicine. 

As the former president of VCA Animal Hospitals, a second-generation veterinarian, and now Chief Transformation Officer for Mars Veterinary Health, taking care of the future of veterinary medicine is deeply personal to Dr. Todd Lavender. His time with VCA started when he was a practice owner in Atlanta. During his 17+ years at VCA, Dr. Lavender’s leadership roles have spanned Operations, Recruiting and Medical Operations. He previously served as Senior Vice President of Eastern Hospital Operations, Regional Medical Director, Recruiting and Professional Relations Director, and Senior Group Vice President for VCA’s Eastern Division. 

As Chief Transformation Officer, Dr. Lavender leads programs designed to increase access to care and inspire the next generation of veterinary professionals. He is also a Board Director for VCA Charities, a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to keeping pets in loving homes, while also leading VCA’s exploration of how to build a more resilient profession and bring veterinary care to new communities, together with organizations like Vet Set Go and the Atlanta Humane Society.  

Committed to building a more inclusive and diverse profession, he also serves as the executive sponsor for VCA’s equity, inclusion and diversity (EI&D) initiatives. In this role, Dr. Lavender supports and advocates for Associate-led diversity resource groups, including the Black* African American Network, LatinX Network, Pride* Network, and WISE: Women Impacting Success for Everyone. 

Dr. Lavender received his bachelor’s and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from the University of Georgia, home of the 2021 College Football National Champions. He and his wife live in Los Angeles with their dog, Dooley. 

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On this episode of the VCA Voice, Dr. Kerl welcomes Antonia Laoutaris RVT, VTS (Anesthesia/Analgesia). They discuss the benefits of hands free radiology and the possibilities for positive change within the veterinarian industry as well as Antonia's significant role in transitioning numerous facilities to embrace hands free policies, providing onsite training, and working alongside the Hands-Free Initiative for both the USA and Canada. 

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*Warning: This episode includes discussions about animal cruelty, human abuse, and neglect. It also contains graphic and disturbing language that may be difficult for some listeners to hear. Listener discretion is advised.

In this first episode of Season 2, Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Margaret Doyle of VCA Canada. In their conversation, Dr. Doyle sheds light on the research-proven link between cases of animal abuse and human abuse as well as on the need for mandated reporting among veterinarians and broadening the scope of investigations to include violence against all living beings.

For more resources on this topic, please refer to the links below:

The Humane Society of The United States
ASPCA Recognizing and Reporting Animal Abuse
Ohio VMA
National Domestic Violence Hotline Website
Purple Leash Project
Safe Haven For Pets

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Richard Levine, Regional Medical Director for the Mid-Atlantic
Region of VCA Animal Hospitals. In this episode, Dr. Levine discusses his personal reflections on a four-decade career and his passion for mentoring that led to the development of a formal, 3-month on-boarding program for new graduates. 
This program has since become the framework for VCAcademy.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Alison Calfee. Dr. Calfee is a 2022 graduate of the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine and is currently completing a small animal rotating internship at VCA River in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
In this episode, Dr. Calfee shares her thoughts on the VCA internship program, at the mid-point of her year-long assignment, as well as academic, career, and self-care advice for future veterinary professionals.

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Lisa Gillespie.
Lisa is the Regional Operations Director (ROD) for the Southeast Region, which includes southwest Florida.
On September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 event with 150 mph winds. It was the first Category 4 hurricane to hit Florida in 18 years and the fifth-strongest hurricane ever to hit the United States.
Approximately 800 VCA Associates were in the initial path of the storm.
Field leadership estimates that 110 were severely impacted, including Medical Directors, Hospital Managers, and team members.
Some lost cars and homes due to flooding and at least one home burned.
Forty of the 60 grants awarded through the Better Together Fund were awarded to VCA Associates. Through it all, VCA Associates continued caring for 24 patients that were unable to be evacuated, and several hospitals were able to get up and running to support community need.
In this fascinating conversation with Dr. Kerl, Lisa shares her experience of leading a region through a national disaster, from the moment of crisis activation through preparation, landfall, recovery, rebuilding, and reopening.

For more information on the Better Together Fund mentioned in this episode, please visit www.marsbettertogetherfund.org

Please visit this site for more information about the AVMA Disaster Preparedness program.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Wendy Farley, the hospital manager of VCA South Shore Animal Hospital in Weymouth, Massachusetts. In their conversation, Wendy shares perspectives on the hospital manager role at VCA Animal Hospitals, tips on fostering high-performing and supportive teams, and how ideas incubated at the hospital level can have nationwide impact.

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On this episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Hannah Johnson, LCSW. Hannah is a hospital-based social worker at VCA Aurora Animal Hospital in Illinois. Prior to joining VCA in May 2021, Hannah worked in human hospitals and clinics.
In their conversation, Hannah discusses the veterinary social worker pilot program at VCA Animal Hospitals, how VCA prioritizes mental health in the workplace, and how the program reinforces the overall health and well-being of both Associates and clients.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Carolyn Spivock, RVT and Director of Veterinary Technician and Assistant Development at VCA Animal Hospitals. In honor of Vet Tech Week, Carolyn shares her efforts to elevate the role of the credentialed veterinary technician within VCA and the industry. They discuss some common misconceptions about the medical work technicians perform, share stories of gratitude for those mentors and team members who help along the way, and explore training, education, and credentialing opportunities available to technicians across the veterinary field.

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Veterinary technicians serve a critical role in caring for our pets. In this episode, we discuss how VCA Animal Hospitals is elevating veterinary technicians through learning, development, and leadership opportunities. Listen in as Dr. Kerl hosts Jessica Sewell, BAS CVT LVT LVMT RVT CPhT, and Regional Technician and Assistant Director.
 

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On this Episode of the VCA Voice Podcast, Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Silene St. Bernard. Dr. St. Bernard is a VCA Regional Medical Director for Southern California and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. In this interview, we learn about Dr. St. Bernard’s professional journey and interests, her decision to pursue specialization in this area of veterinary medicine, how that shapes her interactions with her hospitals,
and why preventive care is important.

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Dr. Kerl is pleased to welcome Dr. Wendy Deal, an Area Medical Director for VCA's Midwest Region and an Associate Veterinarian at VCA Mill Run. Listen in as they discuss her journey in veterinary medicine, the role of veterinary technicians and assistants, and the importance of mentorship programs for new veterinarians. Dr. Deal emphasizes the need for support and guidance during the transition from student to doctor and highlights the value of soft skills and professional development. They also chat about the VCA Mentorship Academy Program, which provides a structured six-month program for mentees and mentors. Mentors provide guidance and support throughout the program, including weekly coaching sessions. 

Dr. Deal grew up in Columbus and obtained her BS at Northwestern University. She received her DVM at Cornell University in 2003 and completed a small animal rotating internship at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists in Providence, RI. She moved home to Columbus in 2005 and joined VCA Mill Run, where she has continued to develop her interest in general practice, internal medicine and ultrasound. She has a passion for client education as well as training and educating hospital staff, veterinary students, and new doctors. Since 2019, Dr. Deal has helped coordinate the new graduate mentorship program for the central Ohio VCA hospitals, and she has been the Area Medical Director for central Ohio since 2021. She lives in Ohio with her partner Tim, enjoys outdoor sports and has three cats, Ernie, Primrose, and Junebug.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Tony Guerino as they discuss his career in veterinary medicine and his amazing ability to stay current in so many areas during his career as a general practice/exotics DVM. They also chat about his role as a regional medical director, and how the Ease of Care initiative is going in the Heartland Group.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Phil Bergman and Talon McKee for an overview of VCA’s clinical studies
program. Their discussion focuses on how VCA is leading the future of veterinary medicine through research, development, and continuous advancement. Dr. Kerl, Talon, and Dr. Bergman discuss how clinicians are giving back to the industry by sharing their expertise, how VCA fosters a culture of continuous learning, and how care and practice are being redesigned by lessons learned. The team also provides an overview of key VCA studies relevant to veterinarians and pet owners.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Heidi Houchen, Medical Director at VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists, to discuss the value of veterinary mentorships – for both the mentor and the mentee. 

Dr. Houchen is the past president of the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association. She shares her experiences with that organization, how the VMA and VCA are collaborating to advance the veterinary profession, and why public service and board leadership matters for veterinarians.

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Dr. Kerl welcomes Dr. Timbrala Marshall, Director of Veterinary Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity programs, to share how VCA is caring for the future of veterinary medicine by empowering our Associates, candidates, and the next generation of veterinary professionals. Dr. Marshall will discuss her unique work experiences, interactions with remarkable colleagues such as Dr. Todd Lavender, President of VCA Animal Hospitals, her career progression within VCA, and efforts to create a more equitable, inclusive, and diverse profession within VCA and beyond.

For more information about Vet Set Go please visit the website at www.Vetsetgo.com

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