CVMA's Official Monthly Newsletter | | |
Dr. Nicolette Sliwa is a small-animal veterinarian currently practicing in Lombard, Illinois. She received her B.A. in Biology from Augustana College, where she also pursued minors in History and Biochemistry. She, then, attended the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated with a DVM degree. Following graduation, Dr. Sliwa started practicing at Lombard Veterinary Hospital, returning to where her veterinary medicine experience all began as a doctor’s assistant and kennel attendant years prior. Her interests include dentistry and dermatology.
Dr. Sliwa is on the CVMA Board of Directors and is co-chair of the Public Education Committee. In 2025, she filled an interim Secretary position on the CVMA Executive Board. She has thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at many CVMA-sponsored public education events, including career fairs at the University of Chicago and White Sox Dog Days --she is a huge White Sox fan. Dr. Sliwa attends the CVMA U courses as a lifelong learner who stays current in veterinary medicine.
She currently resides in Woodridge, Illinois, with her family and her tuxedo cat, Steve. Dr. Sliwa is an avid collector of Mold-a-Ramas. She is always looking to try new experiences, most recently climbing up 94 flights of stairs in the annual Hustle Up The Hancock race. She looks forward to continuing to meet the Association’s members at future CE events at the Brookfield Zoo.
Thank you to Dr. Sliwa for her CVMA stewardship and contributions. She makes a difference.
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April Online Course
ECC Topics for the General Practitioner
Presenter: Caroline Tonozzi, DVM, DACVECC
Date: Three two-hour online sessions
Sessions are from 12:30pm-2:30pm on April 8th, 15th, and 22nd
Location: Online, anywhere on a computer with internet connection
Six (6) RACE-approved credit hours
ECC in veterinary medicine provides urgent and life-saving care for animals. This course will cover the following Emergency and Critical Care topics for the general practitioner: Identifying shock and Developing a Fluid Therapy Plan, Interpreting ECGs in the ER, Emergency Respiratory Techniques and Aesthesia Considerations Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, Post-Op Care of the Neonatal Patient.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity that requires no travel, traffic, dress code, or hotel accommodations.
REGISTER NOW
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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
This course will cover 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. For the intestinal parasites, life cycles and the important stages for diagnosis and treatment will be covered. An emphasis will be on prevention. Discussion regarding emerging lack of efficacy cases and what is known to date about diagnosis and management of these difficult cases will take place.
REGISTER TODAY
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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.
Starts April 8: Online Course – Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) for the General Practitioner
Presenter: Caroline Tonozzi, DVM, DACVECC
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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CVMA is pleased to introduce the inaugural sponsor of VetConnectChicago, Synergy Surgical. Synergy Surgical is a supplier of premium sutures and OEM surgical devices for veterinary clinics and hospitals maintaining a large inventory of more than 160,000 surgical devices from over 150 leading manufacturers, along with their own line of Synergy Surgical sutures, skin staplers, surgical mesh, and nitrile exam gloves. Synergy Surgical helps clinics source the devices they already use while improving supply efficiency and cost management, with flexible purchasing options that allow clinics to order what they need without contracts or minimum order requirements. Thank you, Synergy Surgical, for your support of CVMA.
Synergy Surgical is also a Value-Added Member Benefit Partner. Sign into the member portal to find their CVMA discount code for placing orders.
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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.
| Nourishing The Aging Feline Mind By understanding how cognitive dysfunction presents and how nutrition can help support brain health as a part of a multimodal management plan, veterinarians can more effectively identify early changes, guide pet owners, and improve the quality of life for senior cats. More. | Chronic Conditions Dominate this Year’s List of Most Common Pet Health Problems Chronic diseases dominate the most common claims across both species, mirroring what many veterinary healthcare teams observe in practice. More. | Leveraging Success Through Concurrent Care: Integrating Oncology and Palliative Medicine Earlier in the Cancer Journey By integrating hospice and palliative medicine earlier, alongside oncology rather than after it, veterinary practices can elevate standards of care, strengthen client relationships, and support their teams more sustainably. More. | A Primer on Advanced Laparoscopy in Small Animals Comparable or superior outcomes to the open approach, positive owner perception, and the familiarity and accessibility of equipment have expanded the use of laparoscopy. More. | The Gold Standard of Care for Pets in their Golden Years Aging in pets is not a disease, but it is a pivotal stage of life that requires the highest levels of empathy and compassion from veterinary health care teams. As dogs and cats enter their senior years, their needs evolve in ways both medically and emotionally profound for families. More. | How does Canine Atopic Dermatitis Provide a Unique Opportunity to Study Spectrum of Care? Canine atopic dermatitis provides opportunities to study spectrum of care (SOC) since it is a common, chronic, nonfatal disease often requiring owner-performed multimodal therapy. More. | Curious About a Career as a Relief Veterinarian? Here’s What You Need to Know Relief veterinarians serve as temporary staff in various clinical roles, often covering for veterinarians on short-term leave or filling unexpected vacancies until a permanent replacement or solution is found. More. | ACVIM Endorses Updated Guidance on Canine Chronic Inflammatory Enteropathy The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) announced it has endorsed a new consensus statement on diagnosing and treating chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) in canine patients, published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. More. | Clinical Rotations For End-of-Life Care As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, so too do the expectations placed on new graduates, early-career veterinarians, and specialists. Today’s practitioners must be clinically skilled, emotionally intelligent, and adept at guiding clients through complex, value-laden decisions. One of the most effective, and often overlooked, ways to develop these competencies is through comparative clinical rotations, externships, or internship/residency electives in veterinary hospice and palliative care settings. More. | Bite-Sized Pearls: Practical Anesthesia Tips for the Dental Patient Comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment are recognized as a cornerstone of veterinary patient care, recommended annually for companion animals. Dental health in pets is linked to systemic health, with untreated periodontal disease contributing to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and respiratory disorders. More. | Beyond Note-Taking: How AI Helps Protect Your Practice from Legal Risks Veterinarians are burdened with high-stakes decisions, complex legal requirements, and overwhelming documentation. AI scribe tools help mitigate these concerns. More. | FDA Grants Emergency Use Authorization for More Screwworm Treatments in Animals The FDA has concluded from scientific evidence that NexGard and NexGard COMBO may be effective in the treatment of NWS myiasis in dogs and cats. More. | | |
Happy CVMA 130th Anniversary
FORWARD TOGETHER
Access. Advancement. Excellence
On this CVMA 130th Anniversary, we honor the past by moving FORWARD TOGETHER to the future. Recognizing those who had the foresight to establish and move the organization to 2026, we pay tribute to the legacy through developing CVMA programs that are relevant for today and tomorrow.
- CVMA U continues to provide new premier course offerings and learning platforms.. Both online and in-person classes are facilitated by renown subject matter experts.
- Value-added member benefits are provided exclusively to members removed word giving discounts and services needed in today's world.
- The website and member portal provide relevant information to support our members.
- The CVMA Article Library contains authentic articles on areas of importance to the field.
- Public Education for all ages supplies information about the roles of the veterinarian and how to care for pets.
- Presence and action in Government Affairs allows our members to have a voice and to stay current on what is happening.
- A CVT membership was approved during this Anniversary year by the Board of Directors, and an authentic CVT program is being developed to fit the needs of these vital professionals.
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VetConnectChicago, CVMA's official monthly newsletter, is a connection tool through which relevant information and recognition is shared.
- CVMA is collaborating with The College of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Illinois and the NEW Chicago College of Veterinary School of Midwestern University opening in 2028.
Thank you to our members who throughout the years have moved the organization FORWARD TOGETHER. Members drive the organization. Together we have a strong impact on the future.
| If you are not a member, join today. Continue the legacy and have your voice heard while receiving the benefits of the organization. | |
2026 National Women's History Month
"Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future"
March is National Women's History Month. In 1910, Elior McGrath earned her veterinary degree from the Chicago Veterinary College. Three additional females received veterinary degrees from the McKillip Veterinary College of Chicago: Mignon Nicolson in 1903, Asta Striever in 1914, and Grace Pearce. Their legacy has moved the field of veterinary medicine forward to today. Currently, approximately 87.3% of current veterinary school applicants and 88 % of CVTs identify themselves as female. About 63% to 70% of the current population of veterinarians in the United States identify themselves as female.
We recognize the impact that the "pioneer" female veterinarians have made to help pave the the way for women in the field of veterinary medicine today.
FORWARD TOGETHER
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130th CVMA Anniversary Trivia Question
During this milestone anniversary, we will be sharing historical trivia questions. Below is the first CVMA 130th Anniversary trivia question:
What was the name of CVMA when it was founded in 1896?
See the answer in the April, 2026 edition of VETConnectChicago.
| Certified Veterinary Technicians Corner | |
CVT Membership
The official CVMA Certified Veterinary Technician membership category states the following:
This membership category is open to individuals who hold an active Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) license in good standing issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Eligible individuals must have successfully completed a State Board of Veterinary Medicine–approved post-secondary veterinary technology program and maintain current Illinois licensure. Upon initial licensure, newly credentialed Illinois CVTs may apply for a complimentary one-year membership, subject to approval by the Membership Committee.
CVT Membership Programming
CVMA has developed a CVT Program Task force to create a meaningful program to meet the needs of the Certified Veterinary Technician. The CVT Task Force is composed of veterinarians and experienced CVTs developing concepts to spread awareness to the public and to veterinarians of the important roles that CVTs have. Further, the CVT Task Force and the Education Committee are collaborating to bring premier continuing education RACE approved courses to CVTs at Chicago venues as well as through remote education tools. Stay tuned for more information.
CVT Current Course Discounts
The 2026 courses, the CVMA U courses for veterinarians are also open for registration to CVT professionals for discounted rates. The April course, Emergency and Critical Care for the General Practitioner, is offered remotely. The May course, Parasitology is in person in Chicago at the Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center. Learn more about these opportunities and other courses available throughout for the entire year--all worth 6 credit hours each.
CVMA Value-Added Benefits
Members of CVMA have access to value-added benefits. These include discounts on attorney fees, surgical products, business services, and wealth management. We will be adding more partners to this program such as professional Realtors and accountants. Veterinarians and CVT members have access to these substantive benefits. Further, CVMA has a Mental Health Program at no cost to members and their families. This is a referral program--referred to the right person for specific needs. The Mental Health professional does not charge beyond what the members' insurance covers. Current members can learn more in the Member Portal in the Member Value-Added Benefits folder.
Veterinary Technology Essential and Recommended Skills List
The CVT does not have standard tasks in the field. However, AVMA has a skills list for accredited schools to use in guiding CVT curriculum. Expectations of CVTs are diverse, and the schools are guided to prepare the students for the complex skills and knowledge needed in the veterinary world. More.
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To learn more about CVT membership and the CVT program, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org or at 630.325.1231
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Complimentary Web Seminar
The Untapped Feline Patient: Turning Insight Into Action
Presented by Jon Ayers, Dr. Jane Brunt, Kristin Wuhrman
Date and time: Thursday, March 19 at 1:30pm CT
CATalyst Council shares insights from their landmark national survey and what it means for veterinary practices. Cats now represent 25% of all veterinary clinical visits, marking a sustained shift in species share and signaling significant growth potential for practices positioned to respond. This session will unpack findings from the survey examining cat owner perceptions, attitudes toward feline health, emotional drivers, and barriers to veterinary care. The session translates market intelligence into practical strategies—helping practices capture unmet demand, strengthen client relationships, and fully realize the growing feline opportunity.
CVMA members are invited to register for this complimentary web seminar presented by Veterinary Medical Association Executives.
| | Government affairs are vital for veterinarians 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. | FDA Approves First Oral Treatment for Canine Lymphoma The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several animal drugs since December, including the first oral treatment for canine lymphoma and the first generic for equine Cushing's disease. More. | |
New Farm Bill Proposal The House Agriculture Committee began deliberations on the New Farm Bill on the afternoon of February 23. Below are key points that will help protect animal welfare and maintain public health.
- Inclusion of the Healthy Dog Importation Act
- Extended reauthorization of animal disease prevention and management programs (aka Three-Legged Stool)
- Reauthorization and assessment of important veterinary programs
- Reauthorization of the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Database Program (FARAD)
More.
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Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) PSLF encourages borrowers to enter and remain in the public/nonprofit sector for at least 10 years by promising to forgive their remaining federal student loan debt at that time. The amount of debt forgiven under PSLF is not subject to federal tax under current law, but state tax provisions may vary. Borrowers must do the following at the same time to qualify for PSLF:
- Make 10 years' worth of qualifying payments with an eligible repayment plan. These include Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans like Income-Based Repayment (IBR) or the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), which is not projected to be available until July 1, 2026. Borrowers must at some point use an IDR to qualify for PSLF.
- Make those payments on Direct Loans such as Direct Unsubsidized, Direct PLUS (Grad PLUS), or a Direct Consolidation Loan.
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Work full time for an eligible public service employer, such as a nonprofit or government agency. Full time is defined as 30 hours per week. More.
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Combat Illegal Xylazine While Protecting Veterinary Access Congressional lawmakers want to collaborate with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to help stop the supply of unlawful xylazine. The AVMA has been advocating on behalf of the profession to support public health efforts to address the illicit supply while ensuring veterinarians and their clients continue to have access to the veterinary drug. More.
Strength is in numbers. Send a personal letter to your Congress person encouraging them to support the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act and sharing stories/information showing the importance of xylazine to the welfare of animals and humans. Find your Congress person.
| FDA Advisory: Do Not Feed Eight Lots of Raaw Energy Dog Food Due to Contamination with Harmful Bacteria The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is cautioning pet owners that eight samples of Raaw Energy dog food have tested positive for one or more types of pathogenic (harmful) bacteria, specifically: Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), Salmonella, and Campylobacter jejuni. More. | Federal Government Agencies Begin Coordinated Effort to Crackdown on Dog Fighting, Chronic Dog Abusers U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins is taking action to hold chronic companion animal welfare violators accountable and prosecute those who fight dogs to end the horrific practice. More. | |
Update from CVMA's Secretary and Government Affairs Representative, Karen Woodard, DVM MBA
Dr. Karen Woodard, CVMA Secretary and Government Affairs and Representative, attended the February AVMA fly-in to speak with Illinois senators and representatives, and/or their staff, regarding matters of importance to the field of veterinary medicine. On February 24, the following areas were covered with Hill representatives: The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act (S1163/HR2398) and the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act (S545/HR1266), which would protect the current veterinary supply chain from disruption even after the DEA schedules this drug. All were receptive to the discussions about both acts. Sen Durbin's office appeared especially interested In supporting the Rural Vet Workforce Act.
| 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. | | |
Non-profit trade associations are driven by their members. Stakeholders are the core of the organizations. Below are some ways that you can help CVMA fulfill goals and missions and to recognize accomplishments.
Nominate Spotlight Candidates
VetConnectChicago spotlights members who have contributed to the organization and to the field of veterinary medicine. If you would like to nominate someone to be the spotlighted member, please submit the names, contact information, and specific examples of the members' accomplishments. This can include volunteerism, program development, building education opportunities and programs, research, mentoring, publications,and more. Share this information with Michele Cohen at mcohen@chicagovma.org.
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Public Education Committee
The Public Education (PE) Committee educates people of all ages on caring for their pets and the role of the veterinarian. The first event of 2026 is on April 27 at the White Sox Dog Day. If you are interested in volunteering to participate at the CVMA table, let Kayla know by April 1 at kmarshall@chicagovma.org. The spaces are limited. The veterinarian volunteer may bring one guest. Parking is complementary. It is a fun opportunity to educate the public.
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Sponsorship Connections
Veterinarians often have strong connections with suppliers and business services. These include, but are not limited to, the food, medicine, financial professionals, supplies, and insurance. CVMA has a sponsorship program for those who service veterinarians. The sponsorships and partnerships are vital to showing support of the veterinarians in the Chicago area, and CVMA also offers the vendors meaningful exposure. We would appreciate your sharing the names and contact information of professionals who would benefit from being our sponsor. Send this contact information to Michele at mcohen@chicagvma.org. You may also share this 2026 Sponsorship information with potential partners.
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National Pet Poison Prevention Week—March 15-21
The National Pet Poison Prevention Week is dedicated to raising awareness about household hazards that can harm pets. Key risks include human medications (NSAIDs, antidepressants), foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and xylitol, along with household cleaners and plants. Owners should be reminded to keep all chemicals out of their pets' reach. Visit the CVMA website for more important pet care information to share with your your clients.
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National Pet Day—April 11
The purpose of National Pet Day is to celebrate the joy pets bring, raise awareness for shelter animals needing homes, encourage responsible pet ownership, and to recognize the health benefits pets offer their owners. This is a day for pet families to deepen their bonds with pets and to encourage adoption or fostering of shelter animals. See more in the CommUNITY section of our website.
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Feline Family Pets
Bringing a new cat home is a big change — for the cat and for the owner. The cat's first day might be overwhelming adjusting to unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. As much as the owners might want to cuddle their new kitty, the new family pet might need a little breathing room those first few days. Owners can make the cat's transition into the family as seamless as possible. See what to expect on a cat's first day at a new home and tips on how to make the experiences the best possible.
| Featured Value-Added Benefit for Members | | |
Take a Look, Take Advantage
CVMA is pleased to bring you value-added benefits. We have partnered with attorneys, business services, a veterinary supply company, and wealth management companies to support your needs. Further, as a member and through a CVMA partnership, you receive discounts on technical equipment, travel, and more. Complimentary mental health connections with Professionals is also provided to members and their families. Visit the Value-Added Member Benefits folder to access the information and to take advantage of the exclusive member offerings.
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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 area. 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.
| See more member value-added benefits in the member portal. Please send suggestions for additional member benefits to Michele at mcohen@chicagovam.org. | | |
CVMA Provides Support
CVMA provides an avenue for pet owners to mourn and grieve the loss of their pets. CVMA maintains a phone helpline with veterinarian volunteers responding to the callers. Further, a real-time virtual support group led by a certified therapist is available. More.
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Pet-Loss Sympathy Card
CVMA has new original Pet-Loss Sympathy cards. The cards include space for personalization, information about the Pet-Loss Program, and state that the cards reflect a donation from the practice or veterinarian in honor of the deceased pet. Revenue received from the sale of these original cards goes toward providing these programs. For more information and pricing, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org.
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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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