The North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) is once again setting the stage for a transformative learning experience with its 23rd annual NAVC Institute. Scheduled from May 20 to 24 in sunny Orlando, Florida, this year’s event promises to be a pivotal gathering for veterinary professionals eager to enhance their practical skills, particularly in the field of ophthalmology.
Leading the charge in this intensive four-day course is Dr. Kate Myrna, DVM, MS, DACVO, an esteemed associate professor at the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Myrna, who has a rich background in treating a diverse array of animals from giraffes to horses and small mammals, will share her extensive knowledge and experience with attendees.
“Eye issues in animals are critical and can escalate from minor irritation to severe blindness in no time,” explains Dr. Dana Varble, DVM, CAE, and Chief Veterinary Officer at NAVC. She emphasizes the importance of equipping veterinary professionals with the skills to offer prompt and effective care, which is a key objective of this year’s institute.
Dr. Myrna highlights a significant gap in the availability of specialized care: “In our current economic climate, not every pet owner can afford specialist referrals. With fewer than 600 board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists nationwide, and some states having none, it’s crucial that we empower general veterinarians and their teams with foundational and advanced ophthalmological skills.”
The curriculum is designed to be as hands-on and practical as possible. Participants will engage in a variety of activities including:
– A detailed examination workshop using pet dogs, providing real-world practice in identifying and diagnosing eye conditions.
– Eyelid surgery sessions tailored for common issues in breeds such as Shar Peis, Bulldogs, and Persian cats, focusing on corrective procedures for excessive eyelids.
– Techniques for restoring vision in animals suffering from cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetes-induced vision impairment.
Beyond ophthalmology, the NAVC Institute will also offer educational tracks in orthopedic surgery, small animal ultrasound, soft tissue surgery, and strategic leadership for veterinary practice managers, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for all attendees.
For those interested in advancing their veterinary skills and knowledge, more details can be found in the NAVC Institute Program Guide. This event not only promises to enhance the capabilities of veterinary professionals but also aims to directly improve the quality of care available to animals across the country.
