CVMA's Official Monthly Newsletter | | Kirsten Plomin, DVM, CCRP | | |
Dr. Plomin is an alumna of the University of Illinois where she received both her Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 2015. Dr. Plomin is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) from the University of Tennessee Knoxville, is PennHip and OFA certified, AO certified, and has a special interest in surgery and pain management.
Dr. Plomin is a past President of the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association. She was co-chair for several years of the CVMA Membership Committee and has volunteered for CVMA Public Education events. Dr. Plomin works with numerous rescues including, but not limited to, PAWS, One Tail at a Time, Mutts of the Midway, and ALIV Rescue.
Thank you, Dr. Plomin, for your commitment to CVMA and the field of veterinary medicine
| | CVMA U offers premier premier face-to-face and online courses to advance expertise while earning six (6) RACE approved CE hours per successful completion of each course. Stay up-to-the-minute with current, relevant information presented by renown experts in the field of veterinary medicine. Attendees are sent electronic student notes provided by the instructor. | |
May In-Person Course
Parasitology
Presenter: Andy Moorhead, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVM
Date: May 6, 2026 Time: 8:30am-4pm CT
Location: Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center Complimentary Parking
Six (6) RACE-approved credit hours
Continental breakfast and buffet lunch are served
Expand your knowledge on the prevention and treatment of heartworm and the major intestinal helminth: hookworms, roundworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Biology, diagnostics, and treatment of canine and feline heartworm will be discussed. Life cycles and the important stages for diagnosis and treatment for the intestinal parasites--with an emphasis on prevention--will be shared. Discussion will take place regarding emerging lack of efficacy cases and what is known to date about diagnosis and management of these difficult cases.
REGISTER TODAY
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June In-Person Course
Toxicology
Presenter: Renee D. Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT
Date: June 17, 2026 Time: 8:30am-4pm CT
Location: Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center, Complimentary Parking
Six (6) RACE-approved credit hours
Continental breakfast and buffet lunch are served
Be ready to dig deep into toxicology. Dr. Renee Schmid, Director of Veterinary Toxicology and Senior Veterinary Toxicologist with Pet Poison Helpline will guide attendees through the vast terrain of small animal toxicology. The day will start with a review of general aspects of approaching a potentially poisoned patient, discussing ideal medications to have in the clinic, and choosing the appropriate decontamination method for the patient. As the course progresses, a variety of specific toxins, ranging from chocolate to heroin, and everything in between will be discussed.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PRESENTER
REGISTER TODAY
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Inaugural April Online Course
ALMOST A WRAP
We are pleased to share that our first online CVMA Course, Emergency and Critical Care for the General Practitioner, is having its final session today. Attendees experienced the same high-level of information offered in our traditional courses without having to travel or take time off from work. They received notes and had an opportunity to ask questions in real time. If an attendee was unable to attend the synchronous online session, a link to the session recording could be requested. Six (6) RACE credit hours will be earned by those who successfully complete the course
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Full CVMA U Course Schedule
Below is the full schedule of CVMA U online and in-person courses for 2026. Learn more. Register for multiple courses and receive course discounts. Please contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org or call 630.325-1231 if you would like assistance.
May 6 – Parasitology
Presenter: Andy Moorhead, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVM
June 17 – Toxicology
Presenter: Renee D. Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT
September 16 – Chronic Enteropathies
Presenter: Kasey Mabry, DVM, MS, DACVIM-SA
Starts October 7: Online Course – Internal Medicine in Real Life: Practical Strategies for Your Toughest Chronic Cases
Presenter: Kelly Cairns, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
November 11 – Oncology
Presenter: Timothy M. Fan, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
December 16 – Radiology
Presenter: Marc Lee, DVM, DACVR
Register today
Course fees are tax deductible in accordance with the law.
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VetConnectChicago Sponsor
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Thank you to Synergy Surgical for being a sponsor of VetConnectChicago and CVMA U. Synergy Surgical is a supplier of premium sutures and OEM surgical devices for veterinary clinics and hospitals maintaining an inventory of more than 160,000 surgical devices from over150 leading manufacturers, along with their own line of Synergy Surgical sutures, skin staplers, surgical mesh, and nitrile exam gloves. Synergy Surgical is customer oriented helping clinics source the devices they already use while improving supply efficiency and cost management. No contracts or minimum orders are required.
Synergy Surgical is also a Value-Added Member Benefit Partner. Sign into the member portal to find their CVMA order discount code.
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Articles for the Veterinary Professional
CVMA has developed a library of relevant and current articles for our members. We strive to bring you the information you need. If you have written an article or would like to share one that would benefit the CVMA community, send the article to Michele at mcohen@chicagovma.org.
| HAB-py Tails: Shifting Perceptions, Similar Preferences, and Proof that the HAB Benefits go Both Ways Many veterinarians mention that a key driver of their desire to work in this field is the human-animal bond (HAB). Veterinarians are in a unique position to help pet parents build and strengthen that bond. More | Algorithm: Diagnosis and Treatment of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections The classifications of urinary tract infection (UTI) have been revised based on the 2019 International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases guidelines. More | Studies Investigate How Clients Experience Pet Loss The Dog Aging Project shared two studies that offer a deeper look at how clients experience the loss of their dogs, as well as how veterinary professionals can better support families during their pet’s end-of-life process. More | H5N1 Bird Flu is Advancing East, with Roughly 10 Million Birds Affected in the Past Month The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus has continued spreading across US commercial and backyard poultry operations in recent weeks. More | How to Protect Your Practice’s Brand When veterinary practice owners think about the future of their business, they often focus on real estate, equipment, staffing needs, and financial performance. While those tangible assets matter, one of the most valuable and least understood assets is the brand. More | 5 Tips for Effective Veterinary Client Education Research has shown what pet owners think they already know about their cat or dog's health care and what they want to learn from their veterinarians. More | Expanding Access to Cancer Care: 10% Fluorescein Sodium is a Practical, Low-Cost Method for Intraoperative Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping in Dogs The sentinel lymph node (SLN) is the initial LN that receives lymphatic drainage from a particular anatomical area and is frequently the first site of metastatic spread for a variety of canine cancers. More | Long-Term Bezafibrate Use Shows Promise for Managing Canine Hypertriglyceridemia A research study shows that bezafibrate safely reduces canine hypertriglyceridemia by approximately 85%, even in the presence of endocrine disease. More | What Veterinarians Should Advise Clients About Pain Control and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in Dogs and Cats Recognizing and controlling pain in dogs and cats are important, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a mainstay of pain management, but can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. More | A Review of Common Ectoparasites of Backyard Chickens Backyard poultry ownership in the United States has increased dramatically in the last couple of years, with an estimated total of 85 million backyard chickens. More | | Raise Value When You Raise Fees Value perception influences buying decisions, client satisfaction, and loyalty. Learn about opportunities to communicate value. More | Study Finds Similarities in Genes that Drive Cancer in Cats, Humans A global team of researchers created the first large-scale genetic map of feline cancer. Their study revealed key similarities in certain oncogenes in cats and humans regarding cancer-driving mutations. More | | Guidelines For Diagnosis and Monitoring of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome An international group combining experts in the field and primary care veterinarians proposes a definition of the syndrome and practical diagnostic criteria. More | | Committee Member Outreach | | |
Stewardship Drives CVMA
CVMA members drive the organization. Stewardship is a key to building a strong organization that stays on their mission of advancing the veterinary profession through advocacy, engagement, and enrichment while protecting animal welfare and public health.
CVMA is aware of your busy schedules. Being a member of a committee will not be time consuming but will be meaningful. Your opinions and insight are valuable.
Membership: Identifies the needs and interests of the Association members.
Government Affairs: Monitors local and regional legislative developments that impact the veterinary profession.
Public Education: Works to increase public awareness of the Association and the veterinary profession as a whole.
Finance: Provides overall financial oversight of the Chicago Veterinary
Medical Association.
Please contact Michele Cohen at mcohen@chicagovma.org for more information. Your stewardship takes CVMA to the next level.
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CVMA Board of Directors: Make a Difference
The governance of the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association is vested in a Board of Directors consisting of members entitled to vote and to hold office. The main responsibility of the Board of Directors is to follow the mission and vision of the Association while ensuring fiduciary strength and sustainability CVMA.
Now is an appropriate time to consider if you would like to be part of this vital team for 2027. If you are interested, reach out to Michele at mcohen@chicagovma.org. You will make a difference.
| | The Public Education Committee is dedicated to fostering a deep public understanding of the vital role that veterinarians play in safeguarding animal health, advancing public health, and enhancing the well-being of communities. Through a combination of educational initiatives, media outreach, and strategic partnerships, the committee works to highlight the diverse contributions of professionals in the field of veterinary medicine. | |
CVMA and White Sox Dog Days—April 27 and September 8, 2026
The first 2026 White Sox Dog Day is taking place on the evening of April 27. Volunteer CVMA members will be attending and having a presence at our exhibit table and, prior to the start of the game, will be on the field during the Dog Parade.
One space for a volunteer to attend on April 27 is still available at the time of publishing the newsletter. Each volunteer member may bring a guest. Parking and entry are complimentary.
The second 2026 White Sox Dog Days is taking place on the evening of September 8th.
Have fun at the White Sox Dog Days while spreading awareness of the role of veterinarians to help owners and their pets. For more information and to volunteer, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org or call (630) 325-1231.
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University of Chicago Career Fair- July 23rd, 2026
The University of Chicago, in partnership with the Judy and Peter Blum Kovler Foundation, will host the 15th annual Peter and Judy Kovler Career Conference for high school students on July 23, 2026, at the Hyde Park campus. The event will welcome more than 250 local high school students for a day of career exploration and connection.
Through the Public Education Committee, CVMA volunteers will have a presence at this Career Fair to educate high school students regarding the field of veterinary medicine.
| | Government affairs are vital for veterinarians and CVTs to shape regulations affecting animal welfare, public health, and practice operations, including drug licensing, and controlled substance compliance. Involvement ensures veterinary expertise influences policies on zoonotic diseases, food safety, and environmental health. Members having an interest in participating on Government Affairs Committee should contact Michele Cohen at mcohen@chicagovma.org. | Illinois Begins Transition to Electronic Certificate of Veterinary Inspections Illinois is transitioning to electronic certificates of veterinary inspection (ECVIs). As of July 1, 2026, paper CVIs will no longer be supplied or accepted. More | |
Xylazine Standar is an FDA-approved animal sedative critical to facilitating the safe handling and treatment of many animal species, including cattle, horses, dogs, deer, elk, rats, mice, wildlife, and zoo animals. Increasingly, illicit xylazine is showing up in street drugs as traffickers have begun mixing xylazine with fentanyl and other narcotics with grave human health and safety consequences.
Dr. Karen Woodard, CVMA Secretary and Government Affairs Chair, has met with Illinois representatives on the Hill regarding the Xylazine matter. CVMA has provided a sample letter to personalize and to submit to the appropriate lawmaker. Your input matters.
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HB5411 Rabies Vaccination Administration In February 2026, Representative Kelly Cassidy presented the Rabies Vaccination Access for Shelter and Public Health Act (HB5411). The original language of the bill would have extended the ability to rabies vaccinate animals to licensed CVTs as well as unlicensed assistants and unlicensed
shelter Volunteers. A proposed amendment to the bill allowed only veterinarians and
licensed CVTs supervised by a veterinarian to administer rabies vaccinations. The amendment was passed by the House and moved to the Senate. Leadership is monitoring this closely and will provide updates.
| If you would like to join the CVMA Government Affairs Committee, please contact Michele at mcohen@chicagovma.org. Strength is in numbers. Have your voice heard. | | |
INSIDE CVMA and the CVT Program
Welcome CVTs
CVMA leadership and staff work diligently to bring the organization to the next level. Much goes on behind the scenes to ensure that the organization is relevant and positions for the future.
Below is what is happening regarding the development of the CVT Membership Program.
- CVMA Leadership has developed a task force composed of veterinarian members and experienced CVTs to provide insight for programing and benefits that fits the real needs of the CVT.
- The CVT Task Force is collaborating with the Education Committee to develop education programing for CVTs.
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CVT members will have the same robust benefits that the veterinarian members have including the CVMA value-added member benefits, a presence in government affairs, access to the CVMA Article Library, the spreading of awareness regarding the role of the CVT, and more. New initiatives will be explored and added to our current benefits.
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The CVT Corner is on the CVMA website. Information about the CVT program is posted. The opportunities will continue to grow and shared.
- The 130th Anniversary Task Force has been working on a plan to recognize and support CVTs during 2026, the year of CVMA's 130th Anniversary. This will be rolled out in the Fall of 2026.
Next steps: Committees and task forces bring their decisions to the full Board for a vote. CVMA recognizes the importance of CVTs and is excited to roll out quality CVT programming.
Be on the lookout for more information as the program unfolds.
| Animal Welfare Recognition | CVMA is dedicated to the health and well-being of animals through its nurturing of the human animal bond. Veterinarians are dedicated to this relationship and animal welfare. | |
April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month
Veterinary teams are advocates who bring justice to an abused or neglected animal. Veterinarians play a critical, often legally mandated, role in combatting animal cruelty by identifying, documenting, and reporting neglect or abuse. They act as the "first line of defense," using clinical expertise to spot, treat, and report injuries or signs of neglect while providing evidence for prosecutions.
| U.S. Animal Protection Laws Ranking Report
Each year, the Animal Legal Defense Fund publishes its U.S. Animal Protection Laws Ranking Report. It assesses the strength of each state and territory’s animal protection laws by examining over 3,600 pages of statutes. Each state and territory is ranked based on 20 different categories of animal protection. Illinois is number 4 in being successful in combatting cruelty to animals. | |
Key Roles of Veterinarians in Animal Anti-Cruelty
Veterinarians have key roles in the prevention of cruelty to animals including but not limited to the following:
Identification and Assessment
Mandatory/Ethical Reporting
Documentation and Evidence
Expert Testimony
Client Education
Reporting Links to Human Abuse
Veterinarians help identify and report animal abuse, maintain detailed records, and serve as expert witnesses. Further, they educate pet owners and recognize connections between animal cruelty and human abuse. More
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Illinois Animal Welfare Laws
Illinois has strengthened Illinois animal welfare laws, including stricter regulations on pet imports by shelters (HB3647) and proposed bans on traveling acts involving covered animals (SB2747). Illinois law requires tethered animals to have at least 10-foot leads, and convicted abusers face strict restrictions on owning pets. See the list of Illinois State resolutions.
Illinois also has Bill SR0234 which designates April 23, 2026 as Animal Welfare Day in Illinois. By declaring an official Animal Welfare Day, the Illinois Senate aims to raise awareness about animal welfare and the state's commitment to protecting animals from potential cruelty.
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National Pet Week: May 3-9, 2026
National Pet Week is observed annually during the first full week of May to recognize the bond between humans and pets while encouraging responsible, lifelong pet care. The week highlights pet health, nutrition, socialization, and companionship. Each day of the week focuses on a different topic that supports pet health and wellbeing.
Below are some typical daily themes for National Pet Week
- Sunday: Choose well: Commit for life (Selecting the right pet for your lifestyle).
- Monday: Behavioral health/Socialization: Habits for happy, well-socialized pets.
- Tuesday: Nutrition and exercise matter: Maintaining proper weight and activity.
- Wednesday: Love your pet? See your vet! (Routine wellness exams).
- Thursday: Travel with care: Ensuring safe travel for pets.
- Friday: Emergency awareness: Pet first aid and preparedness.
- Saturday: Plan for a Lifetime: Preparing for a pet's long-term needs. American Veterinary Medical Association
Spread the word and have a Happy National Pet Week.
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Disaster Preparedness for Humans and their Pets
As the American Red Cross states, the best way to protect a household from the effects of a disaster is to have a disaster plan that includes pets. Being prepared for the unexpected saves human and pet lives. Learn more and share with your clients.
| CVMA Supports Veterinary Students | |
The Future of Animal Health
CVMA is committed to fostering the next generation of veterinary professions. The support includes guiding students as they navigate their educational goals and connecting aspiring veterinarians with professional development opportunities and mentorship. Our members represent the best in the field of veterinary medicine and realize the importance of sharing their experiences and expertise with those who will be the future of veterinary medicine.
Our student programs include the following:
Veterinary Student Corner
An exclusive resource created specifically for our student members, the Veterinary Student Corner provides a centralized hub of tools, guidance, and opportunities designed to support students throughout their veterinary education. By logging into the student portal, members gain access to a wide range of curated content tailored to academic success, professional growth, and personal wellbeing.
“My Veterinary Life” Resources
Through the My Veterinary Life platform, students and early career veterinarians can explore an extensive collection of resources focused on career development, wellness, and financial literacy. MyVeterinaryLife.com was created to gather and organize information uniquely relevant to emerging professionals. It offers tools to help students navigate career pathways, foster resilience, and manage the financial demands of both school and early practice life.
“Taking a Financial Selfie” Presentation
Students also have access to the Taking a Financial Selfie PowerPoint presentation—an informative and practical guide to setting and achieving financial goals. This resource breaks down budgeting, debt management, and long-term planning in a way that empowers students to make confident financial decisions.
Externship and Shadowing Opportunities
Our student portal includes a comprehensive, exclusive list of hospitals offering externships and shadowing opportunities. These experiences allow students to gain real-world clinical exposure, build professional connections, and explore different areas of veterinary medicine in a supportive setting.
For more information on the Student program and benefits, contact Kayla at kmarshall@cvma.org.
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Update from Becca Chenowith
U of I Student Representative to CVMA
The second-year class at U of I Veterinary College has just finished clinical rotations, where students rotate weekly through a variety of services such as soft tissue surgery, equine medicine, emergency and critical care, internal medicine, and anesthesia. This is an exciting time as we start applying our didactic knowledge in a hands-on clinical setting. At the end of the rotation block, students complete the OSCE clinical exam as well as a milestone exam that covers the last two years of didactic coursework.
Third-year students will be participating in the White Coat Ceremony and graduation for the fourth-year students takes place in May. Student representatives to CVMA are moving along to reach their career goals. Britt Kiokemeister will be entering her clinical year. Tess Santoro, who has been the lead representative for a few years, is completing her clinical year and graduates in May 2026.
This spring, CVMA will be hosting a meet and greet with students to discuss the benefits of CVMA, and I will be the student representative at the event. This October I will also represent CVMA at the U of I Open House on October 4th.
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CVMA thanks Tess for her past support and efforts as our lead student representative. Congratulations to Tess as she graduates.
We wish her all the best and future success.
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CVMA Partners with Veterinary Schools of Higher Learning
| As part of our commitment to supporting the next generation of veterinary professionals, CVMA is pleased to partner with schools of higher learning. | |
Who Do You Want to Mentor, Now That You’re Grown Up?
By Peter Constable, Dean of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine
Every veterinarian has an origin story. Some of us grew up on farms and watched in fascination when the veterinarian visited to assist a difficult delivery of a calf or foal. Others nursed a beloved pet through an illness and realized how impactful the veterinarian’s care could be. But there’s also the role one takes on after achieving one’s DVM: becoming the person who inspires and encourages the next generation of practitioners. More
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Midwestern University’s Chicago College of Veterinary Medicine Moves Closer to Opening By Coretta C. Patterson, Dean, proposed Chicago College of Veterinary Medicine
Midwestern University continues to build momentum toward launching the Chicago College of Veterinary Medicine (CCVM) on its Downers Grove Campus. According to Coretta C. Patterson, D.V.M., DACVIM-SA, PG Cert Vet Med Ed, Dean of the proposed College, the new academic building is scheduled for completion in April and will house classrooms, laboratory spaces, and a clinical skills center where students will begin developing hands-on veterinary skills. CCVM will offer a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program that emphasizes clinical experience, collaboration, and preparation for the realities of modern veterinary practice. More
| Featured Value-Added Benefits for Members | | |
Take a Look. Take Advantage.
CVMA is pleased to bring you the following Value-Added Member Benefits found in our member portal in the Member Benefits file.
A) We have partnered with attorneys, business services, a veterinary supply company, and wealth management companies to support your needs and to provide discounts or extra services to our members. Our newest Value-Added partner hyperlinkis a financial institution that has a veterinary financial department to provide financial advice and assistance.
B) As a member and through a CVMA partnership, you receive discounts on technical equipment, travel, sports and theatre tickets, amusement park tickets, more. See what is featured this month Hyperlink for CVMA members and use the member discount code).
C) Complimentary mental health connections with Professionals are provided to members and their families through our CVMA Stay Healthy program. Visit the Value-Added Member Benefits folder to access this information.
If you need help entering the member portal and/or locating the above benefits, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org for assistance or call 630.325.1231.
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Find a Veterinarian
Pet owners visit our website to "Find a Veterinarian" in their area or for a specific pet wellness need. All CVMA members are listed in this directory. Please be sure that your contact information is accurate in the member portal.
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Career Board
The Career Board has career roles posted for those in the field of Veterinary medicine. If the need exists to hire someone or to find a position, this is tool to use. An area also exists for Relief Veterinarians.
| | To become a CVMA member, join now to receive discounts on premier CVMA U courses, to have access to CVMA's Valued-Added member benefits, to be part of a strong veterinary medicine network, and to have a voice. | | |
Happy Anniversary to Us
April CVMA History Lesson
Our organization was founded in 1896. At the time, Chicago had two veterinary colleges, the Chicago Veterinary College (1883-1920) and the McKillip Veterinary College (1892-1920). According to Veterinary Heritage published by the American Medical History Society, The McKillip College graduated a total of 1,223 veterinarians by the time it closed in 1920.
Dr. Matthew H. McKillip was the founder and head of the school. He had a hospital located at 1639 Wabash Avenue; the college was established on the same site. Eventually, he opened a practice on North Clark Street. He passed away in 1924. However, his practice is still in existence on North Clark Avenue in the Lakeview/Wrigley area.
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March Trivia Question: What was the name of CVMA when it was founded in 1896? Answer: The Chicago Veterinary Society
April's Trivia Question: True or false-McKillip Veterinary College had basketball, handball, football, and baseball teams?*
*The answer to the April trivia question will be found in the May edition of VetConnectChicago.
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LET'S CONNECT
Official Facebook Page
Look for this photo on the official CVMA Facebook page and follow us. Spread our word while spreading your own word.
| Join the conversation and keep up with the latest news, events, and resources from the CVMA. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates from the local veterinary community. See continuing education opportunities, advocacy efforts, and a behind-the-scenes look at CVMA in action. Stay informed. Stay connected. If you have questions, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org. See you on Instagram and Facebook. | | |
Our Mission
The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization that advances the veterinary profession through advocacy, engagement, and enrichment while protecting animal welfare and public health.
cvma@chicagovma.org | www.chicagovma.org
630.325.1231
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