Annual Member Reception in New Orleans
The Association of Shelter Veterinarians (ASV) hosted its annual member reception on April 25, 2024, in the vibrant city of New Orleans. This event celebrated the remarkable achievements within the veterinary community, particularly focusing on advancements in shelter medicine and animal welfare.
Prestigious Awards
Meritorious Service Award
Dr. Karla Brestle
Dr. Karla Brestle, a 1993 graduate of North Carolina State, has been honored with the Meritorious Service Award. Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Dr. Brestle has dedicated over 25 years to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Spay/Neuter Alliance. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Training and Programs, she has pioneered high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter (HQHVSN) protocols. Her contributions have significantly transformed spay and neuter practices, ensuring they are both effective and evidence-based.
Veterinarian of the Year
Dr. Rebecca Fellman
Dr. Rebecca Fellman, a 2016 graduate of Cornell, was awarded the Veterinarian of the Year. Based in Boston, Dr. Fellman is the lead clinician of community and shelter services at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals-Angell Animal Medical Center. She has spearheaded initiatives that have greatly improved access to essential veterinary services for thousands of animals. Dr. Fellman’s efforts have revolutionized shelter medicine practices, tackled medical barriers to adoption, and established vital community outreach programs. Additionally, she played a key role in founding a trap-neuter-vaccinate-return program in collaboration with the Berkeley County Animal Center in Moncks Corner, South Carolina.
New Officials
The ASV proudly announces its new leadership team:
- President: Dr. Lena DeTar, Ithaca, New York
- Vice President: Dr. Staci Kehir, Fair Play, South Carolina
- Secretary: Dr. Dianne Brown, Beaverton, Oregon
- Treasurer: Dr. Emily Purvis, Gig Harbor, Washington
- Immediate Past President: Dr. Jennifer Bolser, Thornton, Colorado
This new team is committed to advancing the field of shelter medicine and supporting the welfare of animals across the nation.
