By Morgan Randall, WVMA student representative

As I sit to think back on the past two years, what strikes me first is how quickly time flies! I’m sure many of you feel the same way when you think back on veterinary school and how quickly it went even though some days were long. My time as student representative for the WVMA has flown by just as quickly. When I started in the position during my first year, I had no idea where the role would take me. Sitting here now at the end of my term and third year of veterinary school, I’m thankful for the opportunity I have had to get to know so many wonderful people from around the state and to serve my fellow students. 

On April 8, students of the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine class of 2019 participated in the Blue Coat Ceremony hosted by the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association (WVMA) at the Union South Varsity Hall.  

During the ceremony, third-year students were presented with their “blue coats” signifying the end of classes and the beginning of clinics. Family and friends of the students attended the event which included special presentations from Dr. Robert Leder, WVMA President; Dr. Mark Markel, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine; Dr. Linda Sullivan and Dr. Harry Momont, both of the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. A photographic review was compiled by the class of 2019 and a special student address video was given by class members Deanna Scheller and Carl Magnessun.

As a way of keeping the association green and growing, Student Representatives, Morgan Randall and Danielle Schuld along with WVMA staff have worked to increased student participation during the 2017-2018 school year.

A student connects with a veterinarian during a Networking Dinner

“By listening to fellow students, we have been able to really target WVMA events to their interests,” says Randall. 

The Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association (WVMA) awarded Mary Ann Hittle, DVM, of Menasha, with the WVMA Veterinarian of the Year Award at its 102nd Annual Convention on Thursday, October 12. 

Dr. Scott Spaulding and Dr. Mary Ann Hittle

Dr. Melinda Wright, a past associate of Dr. Hittle’s, has witnessed the dedicated following of clients she has gathered during her 38 year career.

Friend of Veterinary Medicine Award

Dr. Scott Spaulding and Beth Viney

The Friend of Veterinary Medicine Award is given to an individual or organization in recognition of their service, commitment, and contributions specifically to organized veterinary medicine in Wisconsin.

As images of dogs left behind during Hurricane Harvey permeate social media and news stories are written about rescue organizations bringing dogs from Texas, animal health officials are recommending that adoptive families exercise caution.

“Certain mosquito-borne diseases, heartworm in particular, are prevalent in the southeastern United States, so when a dog is brought to Wisconsin it is possible that it has heartworm,” says Dr. Yvonne Bellay, humane program veterinarian with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection—Division of Animal Health.

If you are looking for a reliable way to help those affected by the flooding in Texas, the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation is accepting monetary donations for victims. Visit https://www.texvetpets.org/giving/ and select "Disaster" on the "Please Select Foundation Program" drop-down menu. These donations will be earmarked for the relief fund.

Wisconsin veterinary credential holders must re-apply to renew their credential before December 31 of every odd numbered year. The next re-application/renewal cycle will begin October 1, 2017.

You will need to establish a MyDATCP account in order to renew your credential online this fall. 

On June 13, Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association (WVMA) President, Dr. Scott Spaulding, presented Abbagail Schotter, of Ridgeland, with the State FFA Veterinary Science Proficiency Award at the 88th Annual State 

FFA Convention in Madison. This award recognizes the student who best demonstrates an understanding of veterinary medical practices and animal health care in Wisconsin.

On May 7, Dr. Linda Sullivan was recognized as the 2017 Human Cancer Hero for Puppy Up Madison.