January/February 2026

In This Issue:

Register and Book Lodging for the VOS 2026 Conference in Big Sky!

Let's Meet Up! Complete Our Social Event Interest Form for Big Sky

Register for Conference Labs!

Get Ready for Magic at Foundation Night!

Donations Welcome for the Silent Auction and VOSEF

Skiers at Big Sky Resort in Montana

Get ready for great skiing, networking, and socializing at the VOS 2026 Conference, coming up March 14-21, 2026, in Big Sky, Montana.–Photo courtesy of Big Sky Resort

We Are Counting Down the Weeks Until Big Sky!


Dear VOS Members,


Happy New Year!


We are counting down the weeks until Big Sky, and I can assure you that the meeting is coming together wonderfully! Thank you to everyone who submitted abstracts — we have an outstanding scientific program in store.


As always, the VOS Conference will offer exceptional continuing education, but just as importantly, it will provide the chance to reconnect with colleagues, mentors, trainees, friends, and family. These shared experiences, both inside and outside the lecture halls, are the heart of VOS.


We continue to emphasize high-quality, translational orthopedic science, foster discussion, and support the next generation of surgeons through student, intern, and resident participation. Our invited speakers this year exemplify the collaborative spirit between human and veterinary orthopedics that has long been a hallmark of VOS, and I encourage you to come ready not only to learn, but to engage.


And this year our banquet celebration will fully embrace the western spirit of Montana and we expect everyone to come dressed accordingly. Yes — cowboy boots, belt buckles, and fringe are strongly encouraged! It will be an evening of recognition, laughter, a few surprises, and perhaps some experiences that reward a little bravery and a good sense of humor.


I want to thank the Board of Directors and all of you who participated in the recent member survey for your willingness to wrestle with important questions about the future of VOS. Emily Selbe, the consultant we are working with to develop a VOS Strategic Plan, will be onsite in Big Sky. She will be eager to talk to as many of you as possible and will provide an update on the Organizational Assessment of VOS at the Membership Meeting. This assessment, along with your feedback, will help us develop a Strategic Plan that can guide the VOS in years to come.

Dr. Kristin Kirkby Shaw

I look forward to joining many of you soon in Big Sky.


See you on the mountain,

Kristin Kirkby Shaw, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS (SA), DACVSMR

VOS President

kristinkirkby@gmail.com

REGISTER FOR THE 53RD ANNUAL VOS CONFERENCE!


53rd Annual Conference

Veterinary Orthopedic Society

March 14-21, 2026

Big Sky, Montana


Registration is open for the conference and lodging reservations!

Be sure to book your accommodations through the VOS link to take advantage of great rates and benefit VOS!


Please secure lodging as soon as possible as we often run out of available rooms in the VOS room block! It is recommended that potential abstract presenters secure lodging prior to being notified of abstract acceptance.

Big Sky Montana logo
Horse-drawn sleigh ride at Big Sky Resort in Montana

Photos courtesy of Big Sky Resort.

VOS MEMBERS!

PAY YOUR PAST DUE DUES HERE

Outdoor dining at Big Sky Resort in Montana

LET'S MEET UP!

COMPLETE OUR SOCIAL EVENT INTEREST FORM FOR BIG SKY


by Callie Blackford Winders

Communications

VOS 2026 Tentative Program Overview

While the final program will be released once abstract reviews are complete, we’re thrilled to share the tentative outline of events to help you plan your time at VOS in Big Sky, Montana. From scientific sessions to ski races and evening celebrations, there’s plenty to look forward to! View the VOS 2026 Tentative Program Overview

Are you interested in additional social events at VOS? Want to meet new people, share a meal,

or hit the slopes with other VOS attendees? Let me help connect you! Please fill out the Google

form below to help gauge interest in additional social events/ways to connect in Big Sky!

VOS OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

2025-26


Kristin Kirkby Shaw

President


Laurent Guiot

Past President


Matt Stewart

President Elect


Chris Horstman

Treasurer


John Chandler

Immediate Past Treasurer


Callie Blackford Winders

Communications


Andrew Jackson

Advertising / Publicity / Sponsor Chair


Mike Karlin

Scientific Program


Liz Collar

Scientific Program, Assistant Chair


Brian Trumpatori

Awards


Sarah Malek

Research


Stephen Jones

Exhibit Chair


Jonathan Suber

Director, Education Foundation


Allen Johnson

Assistant Director, Education Foundation


Heidi DeCamp

Executive Secretary

Email: secretary@vosdvm.org

Website: www.vosdvm.org

REGISTER FOR 2026 VOS CONFERENCE LABS TODAY!

VOS is pleased to offer the following labs at the VOS 2026 Conference in Big Sky, Montana. Register today!

Arthrex Vet Systems logo

Arthrex Lab

Join us for multiple FREE 30-minute breakout sessions during VOS! Choose from the following topics and customize your learning experience.


1. Canine

  • Sawbone Anatomic Plating: Distal Humerus, Radius, Ilium, Proximal, Distal Femur, DFO, MPL plates, Long T-Plates and cuttable plates,TPLO + InternalBrace™ and Cannulated screws
  • Cadaveric NanoNeedle Arthroscopy: Elbow, Shoulder, Stifle, Hip, Carpus and Tarsus

2. Equine

  • Cadaveric NanoNeedle Arthroscopy: Forelimb (Carpus to Hoof)


Registration Link: https://gems.arthrex.com/event/1c84f546-829e-4919-a115-6770a835d5b0/summary-1

BlueSAO PGR Hands-On Lab

This lab introduces the clinical rationale and surgical technique for Patellar Groove Replacement (PGR) in complex patellar luxation cases, with hands-on practice using a one-piece press-fit PGR system on bone models.


Early registrants will receive a complimentary TPLO Reduction Forceps.


Registration Link: https://www.bluesaousa.com/vos-pgrlab

Movora logo

Movora

Experience the future of veterinary diagnostics and surgery in an exclusive, FREE 1:1 environment. We are hosting personalized sessions to highlight the Movora VetClarity Imaging and Diagnostics platform for a visualization-heavy demonstration designed to give you a true feel for the next generation of scopes. Choose from a variety of 20–30-minute sessions occurring at VOS! We hope to see you there! Please see the Movora Education Website for more information and session signups.

GET READY FOR MAGIC AT FOUNDATION NIGHT!

Donations welcome for the Silent Auction and VOSEF!


by Jonathan Suber

Director, VOS Education Foundation

David Buss

VOS Foundation Night will be held Wednesday March 18, 2026. Entertainment will be provided by Eric Buss, a comedic magician. For a preview, please see https://ericbuss.com/.

Gavel icon

Foundation Night Silent Auction

It is not too late to donate to the silent auction or to donate to the VOS Education Foundation (VOSEF). Please contact Jonathan Suber at jtsuber@gmail.com.

BOOK YOUR SHUTTLE AND LIFT TICKETS FOR BIG SKY

Airport shuttle

AIRPORT SHUTTLE:

Shuttle services are available via Big Sky Shuttle Inc. A discounted rate of $85 (each way) is available using the promo code VOS26. Shuttle reservations can be made at:

https://www.bigskyshuttle.net/airport-shuttle-service.

Skier graphic

LIFT TICKETS & EQUIPMENT RENTAL:

Lift tickets can be purchased via this link:

https://shop.bigskyresort.com/l/vos-26/p/vos-26-2.


Equipment rentals are available via this link:

https://shop.bigskyresort.com/l/group-add-ons/p/group-rental-3.

VOS EDUCATION FOUNDATION HERITAGE GUILD


by Jonathan Suber

Director, VOS Education Foundation


What better legacy than to support the next generation of veterinary orthopedists and the mission of the Veterinary Orthopedic Society? Through the Heritage Guild, your planned gift will help advance education, research, and innovation — ensuring continued excellence in our field for years to come.


Simply complete the Heritage Guild Commitment Form and email a scanned copy to Heidi DeCamp at the VOS office.


Honor your passion. Make the VOS Education Foundation part of your legacy today.

QUESTIONS?


Email: secretary@vosdvm.org

Website: www.vosdvm.org

"LIKE" US ON FACEBOOK
Facebook  

Don't forget to "like" VOS on Facebook for the latest happenings and news.

UPCOMING EVENTS


53rd Annual VOS Conference

March 14-21, 2026

Big Sky, Montana, USA


54th Annual VOS Conference

February 6-13, 2027

Sun Valley, Idaho, USA


Stay tuned to our website, our newsletter and Facebook for the most up-to-date information.

VOS 2026: BIG SKY, MONTANA!

Register now for VOS's 53rd Annual Conference to be held March 14-21, 2026 in Big Sky, MT, USA!


Engage in state-of-the-art scientific presentations with cutting-edge labs on the latest orthopedic techniques. Enjoy downhill or Nordic skiing, a snowshoeing tour, a break at the spa, or head off the resort for dog sledding, snowmobiling, or a visit to Yellowstone National Park! Submit your abstract and present your research to colleagues, as well as meet sponsors and exhibitors with the latest orthopedic and rehabilitation technology.


For registration and abstract submission information, please visit our website: www.vosdvm.org. The Abstract Submission portal is now closed.


For questions regarding the upcoming conference, contact: Heidi DeCamp, VOS Executive Secretary, at secretary@vosdvm.org.


Come for the learning, stay for the family!

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU


CALL FOR SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS: Are you a speaker at an upcoming conference? Know of a cool seminar or workshop you think our members would want to attend? Whether it is you, a fellow member or one of your hardworking residents, let us help spread the word. Email secretary@vosdvm.org your name, the title of your talk, date, location and link (if available).


SEND US YOUR NEWS: We care about your recent publications, job opportunities and changes, promotions, residencies, awards, marriage/birth/death announcements, pictures, anecdotes etc! Email secretary@vosdvm.org information and photos for publication in our email newsletter and website.


EMERITUS MEMBERS: VOS members who are 70+ years old or who have been members for 30+ years will now receive "emeritus" status, giving them a free membership to VOS and free registration to the annual conference. If you qualify, please contact us at

secretary@vosdvm.org.

CHECK OUT VCOT OPEN
Did you know that Thieme, the publisher of the Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology (VCOT) journal, also publishes an open-access companion journal called VCOT Open? VCOT Open publishes review articles, original research as well as case reports concerning the various aspects of veterinary clinical and comparative orthopaedics and traumatology.
 
All articles in VCOT Open are made freely available for all to read and download. 
 
Please see the VCOT Open page on the Thieme website for more details.

IS IT TIME TO RENEW YOUR VCOT JOURNAL SUBSCRIPTION?

VOS members are eligible for a discounted subscription to the VCOT journal. VCOT is the official journal for 11 organizations, one of which is VOS.


Click here to learn more about VCOT.


How to Subscribe 

Please see the Subscribe to the VCOT Journal page on our website for complete details.

DONATE ONLINE TO VOSEF

Please support the VOS Education Foundation. Click the button above to donate online.

NOW AVAILABLE: CLASSIFIED ADS 


Do you have job openings, residencies, internships and other notices? We can help publicize these opportunities to the veterinary orthopedic community! Place a classified ad and get your information in our newsletter and on our website.


VOS members: Classified ads are free and will be posted for 3 newsletter issues.


Non-members: The fee for nonmembers is $135 for text ads/ $150 for ads with a logo. Ads will be posted for 3 newsletter issues. (Non-members are encouraged to join VOS and post their ads for free!)


Each classified ad is limited to 100 words and should include a web link or email address so applicants may respond directly to you. Ads can include a small logo (submit as a JPG, PNG, EPS or PDF file with your text).


Direct classified ad correspondence to

Heidi DeCamp, Executive Secretary, secretary@vosdvm.org.

All classified ads are subject to board approval.

Please be sure to see our classified ads and job postings at the end of the newsletter. 
Thank you to our sponsors and advertisers for supporting the Veterinary Orthopedic Society!
World Orthopaedic Veterinary Congress September 23-26 2026 Rome Italy
Are you reaching your target audience Advertise with VOS

Is your company interested in display advertising in the Veterinary Orthopedic Society newsletter?

Contact Andrew Jackson for ad specifications and details.


Want to post a job opening or other classified ad?

Classified ads are free for VOS members and available for a fee to non-members.

See details above or contact Heidi DeCamp, Executive Secretary, to submit your ad.

BLOOMBERG MINUTES


Thank you to our endowed Bloomberg Award sponsors. Please see below to catch up on what they are working on and the CE opportunities they have for you.


AO VET North America

May 13-15: Principles of Small Animal Fracture Management, Cary, NC

May 13-15: Advanced Techniques in Small Animal Fracture Management with Wet Lab, Cary, NC

May 13-15: Principles of Equine Fracture Management, Cary, NC

Visit the website for additional information: AOFoundation.org/vet.


Arthrex Vet Systems

Advanced Surgeon Courses: 

Feb. 19-21: Stifle Evolutions: Controversies and Solutions, Naples, FL

TBD: VOS No Charge Lab Rotation Sessions, Big Sky, MT – Registration Opening Soon

May 18-20: Comprehensive Elbow and Shoulder Forum, Naples, FL

Resident and Early Career Courses: 

March 9-10: Bone Plating 201, Fort Collins, CO

March 11-12: TPLO 201, Fort Collins, CO

June 22-24: Resident Arthroscopy I: Foundations, Naples, FL

June 25-27: Resident Fracture I: Fundamentals, Naples, FL

June 29-July 1: Resident Arthroscopy II: Next Level, Naples, FL

Visit website for additional information: ArthrexVetSystems.com


Boehringer Ingelheim

Please visit the website to learn about Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to innovative and sustainable development and health solutions. Thanks for making the world a better place BI!
Visit website for additional information: BI-vetmedica.com


New Generation Devices

Check out information on NGDs latest technologies including New Evolution TPLO plate, Semi Cylindrical Recession Trochleoplasty and Citrate-based Resorbable Biomimetic Polymer/ HA composite.

Visit website for more information: NGDvet.com


Orthomed

Orthomed has launched its online academy! These courses allow you to learn the theory before the course and offer optional hands-on wet lab and virtual reality experience so you can focus more on the surgical side and less on the theoretical.

Visit website for upcoming workshop links: Orthomed.co.uk/us


Securos

Apr. 10-11: Affiliated Lab: Tibial Plateau-Leveling Osteotomy - ABVP Symposium, Boston, MA

Apr. 25-26: Surg’X Interlocking Nail Fracture Fixation Lab, Fiskdale, MA

May 25-28: Affiliated Course: Practical Orthopedic Surgical Techniques for Primary Care Veterinarians - NAVC, Orlando, FL

June 13: Hands-On Lab: Extracapsular Stifle Stabilization and Patellar Luxation Correction Wet Labs, Fiskdale, MA

June 14: Hands-On Lab: Tibial Plateau-Leveling Osteotomy, Fiskdale, MA

Visit website for additional information: Securos.com

Job Postings

Full / Associate / Assistant Professor in Orthopedic Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville

Here is your chance to join a vibrant, dynamic, academic Orthopedic surgery service. We have opportunities in 3D printing, minimally invasive surgery, research and teaching. While enjoying all that sunny Florida has to offer.

All applicants must apply online through Careers at UF to be considered. To view the position and apply, visit: UF Vet Ortho and contact: Dr. Matt Johnson, Search Committee Chair.

See online job description for full list of requirements. Apply by December 31, 2025.

The University of Florida is An Equal Employment Opportunity Institution.

Tenure-Track or Clinical Track Open Rank Professor in Small Animal Orthopedic Surgery, Full-time, 100% (12-month basis), University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

Yearning to wear more than a surgeon's cap? As a faculty member at University of Illinois you have the opportunity to wear multiple hats – as surgeon, mentor, educator, researcher and more. Not only do we have state of the art, new surgical suites, onsite 3D printers and a diverse caseload but our interns, residents and students will benefit from your experience and mentorship. Apply by September 30, 2025. To view the position and submit an application, visit: https://jobs.illinois.edu/. Direct inquiries to Dr. Heidi Phillips, at philli@illinois.edu.

Sirius Veterinary Orthopedic Center logo

Small Animal Surgeon, Omaha, Nebraska

Sirius Veterinary Orthopedic Center is seeking a 3rd Small Animal Surgeon.

Join the Midwest’s premier orthopedic-only hospital! We’re looking for a full-time small animal surgeon but will also consider part-time or locum opportunities.

Practice cutting-edge veterinary orthopedics in a purpose-built, 10,000 sq ft surgical facility.

  • Enjoy no emergency or weekend shifts
  • A collaborative team environment
  • Advanced imaging
  • Arthroscopy and THR equipment

We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a focus solely on orthopedics. Protect your work-life balance while advancing your career with a high-performing surgical team.

Apply with CV and cover letter to chorstman@siriusvet.com. More info at www.siriusvet.com.

Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics logo

Veterinary Surgeon, Fairfield, California

Solano-Napa Pet Specialty Clinic (SPEC) in Fairfield, CA, is seeking a veterinary surgeon to join our dynamic 24/7 hospital. Conveniently located near San Francisco, Napa Valley, Davis, and Sacramento, SPEC has served the community for 20 years and is expanding with new specialty services in 2026. Enjoy a balanced work-life with no on-call duties and base compensation starting at $250k plus production. Shape your surgical department by selecting equipment and workflow. Our positive, supportive team fosters professional growth. We offer advanced diagnostic tools, competitive compensation, and extensive benefits. Nestled near Napa Wine Country, SPEC provides a vibrant lifestyle beyond work. To apply, email your CV and cover letter to amy.morgan@unitedvetcare.com.

Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon, Austin, Texas

Central Texas Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital in Austin, TX, is seeking a board-certified Veterinary Surgeon to join their surgical team. The ideal candidate thrives on arthroscopy, minimally invasive surgery, 3D printing, and complex orthopedic cases. New arthroscopy-laparoscopy tower! Compensation ranges from $275k to up to $305K plus production (paid monthly, no negative accruals), depending on experience. Benefits include a comprehensive package, 401K with a company match, EAP, and AVMA liability insurance. No non-competes. To apply, send your CV and cover letter to ann.schramm@unitedvetcare.com.

Small Animal Surgeon, Orchard Park, NY

Orchard Park Veterinary Medical Center (OPVMC) is seeking a full-time Small Animal Surgeon to join our dynamic and collaborative team!

OPVMC is a privately owned Emergency, Referral/Specialty, and General Practice comprised of approximately 30 veterinarians and 160 support staff. Our facility is equipped with on-site MRI and CT, and we are proud to now have a board-certified Anesthesiologist who works closely with our surgical team to provide advanced perioperative care and support.

We offer a generous benefits package including health, vision, dental, and disability insurance, matching 401(k), sign-on bonuses, student loan reimbursement, and paid time off.

The Western New York area offers a thriving and active community with numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a great quality of life.

For more information, visit www.opvmc.com or email Maria Pickering at mpickering@opvmc.net.

MOVES logo
Mobile Veterinary Specialists / Orthopedic Surgeons, Multiple U.S. Locations
MOVES Mobile Veterinary Specialists is a unique organization focused on breathing new life into the veterinary specialist vocation as a guide to positive outcomes for patients, practices and people. Our core values of Balanced Boundaries, Kind Consideration, and Trustworthy Independence demonstrate our commitment to quality of life. Earn top production rates, receive an unparalleled total rewards package, and operate independently while receiving the support of an administrative team with years of experience. Opportunities are endless with MOVES and we are looking for surgeons throughout the US. Learn more on our website: www.vetmoves.com/careers/.

Veterinary Surgeons, Ethos Veterinary Health, Multiple Locations - Nationwide and Canada

Explore the world of opportunities Ethos Veterinary Health (comprised of NVA Compassion-First, SAGE, and Ethos hospitals) offers at hospitals across the US and Canada. Why not take a look at available Surgeon positions or reach out directly so we can connect! With so many outstanding locations with supportive leadership, I’m confident that we can find a great fit for you. Our network of premiere Specialty and Emergency hospitals means more shared experiences, resources, and opportunities for collaboration. To learn more about our amazing opportunities, contact Beth Bardell at Beth.Bardell@ethosvet.com or 910-710-3423.

Veterinary Surgery Specialists at BluePearl Pet Hospitals

BluePearl Pet Hospitals are seeking board-certified surgeons or individuals who have completed surgery residency training. FT/PT, Locum, and Traveling Veterinarian opportunities are available. BluePearl has a sole focus on specialty and emergency care and is one of the largest private employers of veterinary specialists. With more than 100 hospitals stretching from the redwoods of the Pacific Northwest to the skyscrapers of the Northeast to the sandy beaches in the Florida coast, we have an opportunity where you want to be!

For more information, please email Aly Mitton at alysha.mitton@bluepearlvet.com.

For more details, please visit: https://careers.bluepearlvet.com/us/en/c/specialty-veterinarian-jobs.

Veterinary Orthopedic Society | vosdvm.org
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