CVMA's Official Monthly Newsletter | | |
Dr. Larry Fox
Dr Larry Fox has been a proud member of the CVMA for nearly 60 years. He served as President of the CVMA in 1994. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1968 as the youngest veterinarian in the United States. Following graduation he was commissioned as a Captain in the US Army’s Veterinary Corps and was assigned as a staff member of Madigan General Hospital where he coordinated medical and surgical research.
Upon returning to Chicago, he spent two years working in veterinary practices before opening Elmwood-Grove Animal Hospital in 1972. In 1981, Dr. Fox became one of the first Diplomates of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP). He has served in several CVMA capacities, including editing a column for the Sun-Times “Chicago Vets on Pets." He appeared on NBC’s Saturday morning veterinary feature and on various radio shows. Dr. Fox taught at the CVMA/NIVMA St Charles Spring Clinic and was the author of journal articles. He was honored by being presented with the CVMA’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
He and his wife, Carlina, established the River Forest Animal Hospital and the Burnham Park Animal Hospital. Dr Fox retired from full-time practice in 2025 and, currently, does consulting and specialized surgical procedures in Miami and Chicagoland. Thank you, Dr. Fox, for your commitment to the CVMA and the field of veterinary medicine.
| | CVMA U offers 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. | |
CVMA In-Person Course
Oncology
Presenter: Timothy M. Fan, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Date: November 11th, 2026 Time: 8:30am-4:00pm CT
Location: Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center, Complementary Parking
Six (6) RACE approved credit hours
Continental breakfast and buffet lunch will be served
Dr. Fan will be providing updates on diagnosis and treatment of several of the most challenging tumors encountered in dogs and cats. Highlights will center around ongoing clinical trials that seek to improve the control of cancer through either earlier detection methods or improved treatment options. In particular, how the immune system can be harnessed to fight cancer will be emphasized and novel strategies that have begun to be evaluated in pets reviewed.
REGISTER TODAY
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CVMA In-Person Course
Radiology
Presenter: Marc Lee, DVM, DACVR
Date: December 16th, 2026 Time: 8:30am-4:00pm CT
Location: Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center, Complementary Parking
Six (6) RACE approved credit hours
Continental breakfast and buffet lunch will be served
This interactive session will focus on the identification and interpretation of common thoracic and abdominal radiographic abnormalities through a case-based approach. Attendees will engage in the systematic review of representative cases, gaining practical insights into key disease processes and radiographic patterns.
Registrants will enjoy a special 130th Anniversary Luncheon/Annual Meeting.
REGISTER TODAY
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2027 Feline Dental Wet Lab
Presenters
Stephen Juriga DVM, Dipl. AVDC
Muhammad Jawad ul Hassan, DVM
Eight (8) RACE-approved credit hours
January 9, 2027
Location: Joliet Junior College
This course is limited to the first twenty (20) registrants
Participate in this unique opportunity that combines a lecture and wet lab covering recognition of oral pathology, dental radiology, dental nerve blocks, instrumentation, and a step-by-step approach to surgical extraction therapy for feline patients. Learn to prevent and overcome common complications root fracture, and retrieval of fractured root(s). Self-study information is shared with registrants prior to the event. Dental supplies are provided and kept by the participants for future use.
REGISTER NOW
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NEW: CVMA U On-Demand Online Course
Internal Medicine in Real Life:
Practical Strategies for Your Toughest Chronic Cases
Presenter: Kelly Cairns DVM, MS, DACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
Date and Location: Take whenever you like, wherever you like
Needed: Computer and high-speed internet
Not needed: Automobiles, trains, planes...gasoline
Six (6) RACE-approved credit hours
This course is designed for general practitioners who want practical, confidence-building approaches to liver disease, hyperadrenocorticism, and chronic kidney disease. Across three interactive 2-hour sessions, how to diagnose these conditions efficiently, avoid common mistakes, and implement treatment strategies that actually move the needle for patients will be covered. Each session blends evidence-based guidelines with real-world tips, case examples, and communication strategies you can put to use the next day.
REGISTER TODAY
| | CVMA U 2027 Course Schedule | | CVMA is excited to roll out its 2027 course schedule to continue offering veterinary best-in-class education to veterinary professionals. We welcome you to make your choices to stay current on topics covering diverse areas of the veterinary world. Six in-person, three Online, Real-Time, and five On-Demand courses—to which more will be added throughout the year—are available. We have opportunities to fit all learning needs and styles. Take a look and make your choices for 2027. | | |
IF NOT A MEMBER, DO NOT WAIT. JOIN TODAY AND GET TWO FREE MONTHS OF MEMBERSHIP AND RECEIVE COURSE DISCOUNTS AND MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS.
Membership and course fees are tax deductible in accordance with the law.
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VetConnectChicago Prestige 2026 Partner
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CVMA's partners support programs and help to provide a strong future.
Using our partners is cost effective.
Check out their services..
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Use the CVMA order discount code
to save money on your supply needs
Synergy Surgical, CVMA's Prestige Partner, helps veterinary hospitals and clinics reduce supply costs without compromising quality by offering premium devices including sutures, skin staplers, surgical mesh, and a broad selection of OEM surgical devices. They offer competitive pricing and same-day shipping with no contracts or minimum order requirements. Enter the member portal to retrieve the CVMA order discount code.
If needing portal entry assistance, contact info@chicagovma.org or call 630.325.1231.
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SYNERGY SURGICAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
In collaboration with CVMA
CVMA extends appreciation to our Prestige Partner for providing Synergy Surgical Scholarships to CVT candidates and to veterinary students at University of Illinois. They understand the value of education and the importance of the future of veterinary medicine.
The deadline to submit completed applications is November 15.
• CVT Scholarship Electronic Application
• U of I Scholarship Electronic Application
The scholarships will be presented at the 130th Anniversary Recognition Luncheon/Annual Meeting on December 16. See the Save the Date section of the newslettter for more information.
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VetConnectChicago October Partner
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Mission Statement
The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) advances the veterinary profession through advocacy, engagement, and enrichment while protecting animal welfare and public health.
Vision Statement
The membership of the CVMA is dedicated to the health and well-being of animals through its nurturing of the human animal bond. The CVMA will strive to fulfill the diverse needs of its members by providing nationally recognized CE programs, cultivating membership involvement, and offering innovative members services and exemplary public awareness.
| CVMA Distinguished Service Award Nominations | | |
Recognize a Worthy Colleague
Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is seeking nominations for the Distinguished Service Award. This award is presented to a CVMA member in recognition of long-term commitment and service to fellow members, the field of veterinary medicine, and the community. Complete the nomination form and submit it by November 1, 2026. The award will be presented on December 16 at the 130th Anniversary Recognition Luncheon/Annual Meeting.
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Membership Renewal Starts in October
Members drive an organization
Thank you to our members for helping us become one of the most effective city veterinary organizations in the United States. We are pleased to announce that we have increased our membership by more than fifteen percent which builds an organization's general strength and is an indication that we are meeting needs. The more members, the stronger voice we have. We provide
- Value-added benefits to save our members money with partners such as attorneys and business services professionals offerings,
- A presence and voice in Government Affairs
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The unique VetConnectChicago newsletter
- Premier CVMA U in-person, online, and on-demand education programs
- A free-of-charge, confidential mental health service
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Advantage discounts offering savings on goods for life and personal activities
- Educational tools to share with pet owners
- The NEW CVMA Veterinary Technician Program to support the future of veterinary medicine and these essential caregivers
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Scholarship programs for both U of I Veterinary Students and those working on becoming a CVT. in collaboration with Synergy Surgical, and MORE.
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In 2027, we are providing an increased number of RACE approved courses as well as RACE approved complimentary web seminars that cover business tools and clinical information.
Be looking at your November emails for a renewal invoice or renew today. If you have questions, need assistance, or would like more information, contact us at info@chicagovma.org or at 630.325.1231.
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CVMA Life Member News
Applications due by November 15, 2026
A Life Member is an individual who has attained the age of sixty-five (65) years and has been a member in good standing of the Association continuously for not less than the preceding thirty (30) years; or, an individual who has been a member in good standing of the Association continuously for not less than the preceding thirty-five (35) years and who has, after fulfilling the requirements, has been elected to Life Membership by the Membership Committee.
Applications are accepted once a year. If you believe you meet the above qualifications to be a new Life Member, please complete and submit the application to info@chicagovma.org by November 15, 2026.
Life Member Education Initiative
CVMA is committed to fostering the next generation of veterinary professions. The Board of Directors passed a Life Member Education Initiative for 2026-2027 requesting that Lifetime Members make an optional minimum $45 contribution as a scholarship contribution that will be put toward scholarships for students in the field of veterinary medicine or toward a different program of the member's choice. Indicate on the invoice that you receive to what area you would like the contribution applied. You may also make your contribution in someone's honor. If you have questions, please contact us at info@chicagovma.org or call 630.325.1231.
| Member Advantage Benefits | |
CVMA is pleased to bring you the above Value-Added Member Benefits found in our member portal in the Member Benefits file.
If you would like assistance entering the member portal and/or locating the above benefits, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org for assistance or call 630.325.1231.
| The human-animal bond is a bold, strong relationship that has an impact on the mental, physical and social well-being of both. | |
Halloween Pet Safety
Halloween brings hidden hazards for pets, from toxic treats and unsafe decorations to the stress of ringing doorbells. Consider sharing these Halloween pet safety tips with your clients.
Pet Enrichment
Enrichment is about meeting an animal’s mental, physical, and emotional needs to allow them to perform species typical behaviors in safe and appropriate ways. Pet behavioralists can assist with providing ways to improve a pet's self-confidence and independence to avoid issues owners view as unacceptable. More.
November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month
Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death for domestic dogs and cats in the United States. This is an opportunity for veterinarians to educate pet owners. Consider sharing this brochure with your owners regarding detection and treatment.
Companion Dogs and Cats and Autism
Dogs and cats help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by improving social communication, reducing anxiety, providing sensory regulation, and offering nonjudgmental companionship. More.
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Veterinary Practice Resources
Optimizing clinic efficiency, safeguard team well-being, driving profitability, streamlining workflows, expanding access to care, clear communication, supporting staff, reducing turnover, and delivering high-quality medical care to patients are keys to successful practices.
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COMPLIMENTARY WEB SEMINARS: CVMA is pleased to offer its members complimentary real-time web seminars presented by the Veterinary Medical Association Executives. These offerings cover topics relevant to veterinary practices facilitated by experts in practice management.
Beyond Clinical Excellence: Communicating Your Practice’s Unique Value to Build Client Loyalty | November 19 at 1:30 pm CT
In today’s evolving veterinary landscape, high-quality medicine is the baseline—but client perception of value drives long-term loyalty, compliance, and pricing integrity. This one-hour web seminar introduces the “Red Zone” Framework—a clear methodology for identifying where what matters most to your clients overlaps with where your practice is Unique, Better, or Best (UBB). More and register.
You’ve Got a Scribe. Now What? The Next Phase of AI in Veterinary Practice | December 17 at 1:30 pm CT
How to get more out of AI documentation, what professional responsibility looks like as AI moves closer to clinical decisions, where scribing is heading next, from decision support and front desk integration to clinical education will be covered. Attendees will leave with practical steps they can apply in their practice tomorrow and a clear view of the questions the profession still needs to answer. More and register.
If you have questions, contact info@chicagovma.org or call 630.325.1231.
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Compress your schedule for efficiency - Veterinary Practice News Driven by rising staff turnover rates, increasing employee burnout, and competition for workers, forward-thinking dental practice owners are experimenting with compressed work schedules that promise better work-life balance without sacrificing patient care or practice revenue.
The Veterinary Preventive Care Pricing Paradox Value is a complex calculation that includes the quality of the service provided compared to what’s expected, the price of the service, and non-financial costs such as time. Practices can increase the value proposition for wellness diagnostics for pet owners and veterinary teams.
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Articles for the Veterinary Professional
CVMA has a library of relevant and current articles for our members. We strive to bring beneficial information to the CVMA community. If you have written articles or would like to share articles, submit them to Michele at mcohen@chicagovma.org.
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Get Gutsy About Canine GI Health Dogs can display a variety of clinical signs associated with gastrointestinal (GI) distress that can be challenging to differentiate between acute and chronic problems. Initial evaluation with a thorough history is imperative for a more complete differential diagnosis.
Avian Influenza Confirmed in Dairy Cattle in Washington For the First Time Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in dairy cattle in Washington and could have impact on other animals.
A Link Between Gait and Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs New research is shedding light on gait changes in dogs, an objective indicator that may make early cognitive changes easier to recognize.
Canine Chronic Idiopathic Rhinitis in a Referral Setting Canine chronic idiopathic rhinitis management is covered in an observational study.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in a Cat Review a patient case involving a male domestic shorthair cat, who was presented for evaluation of a newly diagnosed heart murmur, a gallop sound, and resolving right thoracic limb lameness.
2026 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs A substantial number of dogs develop diabetes mellitus (DM), a serious endocrine disorder that can lead to other physiologic complications.
2026 Global Dental Guidelines by WSAVA These guidelines provide practical, evidence-based guidance to support the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral and dental disease in companion animals.
Dogs Still Reign, but Cats Are Closing the Gap The sourcebook reveals what veterinary practices should know about today's pet owners.
Perianesthetic Gastroesophageal Reflux The incidence of GER is increased in the perianesthetic period due to suppression of normal esophageal motility and a decrease in lower esophageal sphincter pressure.
How to Read Veterinary ECGs: A Guide for Clinicians ECGs are easy to obtain and can expedite interventional therapy in instances of life-threatening arrhythmias, including high-grade atrioventricular (AV) block or ventriculartachycardia.
Abnormal Serum Chemistry Results Information is available regarding the interpretation of serum chemistry results.
Improving Daily Dermatology Decision-Making This guide rethinks how general practices evaluate dermal and subcutaneous masses.
Artificial Intelligence in Vet Med AI use is becoming more common in veterinary medicine.
The Silent Diagnosis Identifying and Managing Feline HCM A version of a medication in clinical trials to extend the healthy lifespan of dogs was conditionally approved in March 2025 by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)1 to treat hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats.
Middle Ear Inflammatory Polyp Removal in Cats Feline aural inflammatory polyps (AIPs) are nonneoplastic growths of unclear etiology arising from the middle ear or auditor tube and most commonly affect young cats.
| See more articles in the VT Corner of VetConnectChicago. | Veterinary Technician Corner | | |
Veterinary Technician Week
Hip, Hip, Hooray to Veterinary Technicians
You Make a Difference
CVMA recognizes the value of and important work done by Veterinary Technicians. Our Veterinary Technician Program focus is to spread awareness of the importance of the VT in the field of veterinary medicine, to be an advocate of fairness to the profession, and to supply relevant education opportunities for their professional development.
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Synergy Surgical Veterinarian Technician Scholarships
In honor of Veterinary Technician Week, CVMA is excited to open the submission process for to apply for Synergy Surgical Scholarships. This collaboration between CVMA and Synergy Surgical provides funding to Veterinary Technicians planning to take the VNTE by June 2027. We See the requirements and complete the electronic application packet. Deadline for submission is November 15.
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Attention Veterinary Technician Students
CVMA is seeking two veterinary technician students to assist at our 130th Anniversary Recognition Luncheon on December 16. If you would like to help with and be part of the celebration, please contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org by November 15.
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VT Topics of Interest
VTs work in collaboration with veterinary teams for the welfare of animals. Some specialize in specific areas and some have diverse responsibilities covering many types of needs. Below are articles of interest to VTs and to entire veterinary teams. For more articles, see the general Articles of Interest section in this newsletter and visit the Library. If you have written an article or have one to share, please send it to Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org.
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Using Over-the-Counter Drug Tests for Veterinary Patients Over-the-counter drug tests are designed and marketed as screening tools to detect the presence of potentially intoxicating agents in human urine, but they can also be used for veterinary patients.
Client Communication About Nutritional Management of Gastrointestinal Problems Examples are provided of how core communication skills can help with effective information gathering, allowing for categorizing or triaging symptoms to support nutritional recommendations and improved client compliance and health outcomes.
Triaging Feline House Soiling Using Telemedicine Feline house soiling can be a major problem for caregivers, but telemedicine can be a means of providing needed support and guidance.
Hypercoagulable States: Recognizing Thrombophilia Knowledge of the conditions associated with hypercoagulable risk factors helps ensure patients receive timely, necessary treatment.
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130th Anniversary Recognition Luncheon/Annual Meeting
Date: December 16, 2026 | Time: Noon-1:30pm
Location: Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center
In honor of the Anniversary, CVMA is proud to officially roll out the
Veterinary Technician (VT) Program--moving forward together to the future
In collaboration with CVMA, Surgical Synergy Scholarships will be awarded to
Veterinary Technicians and to University of Illinois Veterinarian Students
Special guests:
Dr. Peter Constable, Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois Leaders of Illinois Veterinary Technician Schools
Anthony Laderosa, Synergy Surgical President
A zoo resident animal
YOU
Enjoy the company of colleagues and celebrate the past and the present. Lunch included for registrants attending the Radiology Course on December 16.
Lunch only fee registration: $30
Course Registration
| | Government affairs are vital for veterinarians and VTs 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 the 2027 Government Affairs Committee should contact Michele Cohen at mcohen@chicagovma.org. | |
Federal Government
Recent Animal Drug Approvals The FDA's list of recent animal drug approval information includes basic details as well as indications for use and effect of the supplements.
Combating Illicit Xylazine Bill The HR 1266 Combating Illicit Xylazine bill passed the US house unanimously in September 2026. The companion bill, S.545, is currently in the Senate. Bill Overview.
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The CVMA Dr. Mary K. Baukert Pet-Loss Helpline is a complimentary program for grieving pet owners. Trained volunteers retrieve messages from the owners and call to offer support by active listening as well as providing printed materials and referrals when needed. This program was formed in 1992 with the purpose of creating a resource for people grieving the loss of their pets. Many of the current Helpline volunteers are long-term advocates
If interested in becoming a Pet-Loss Helpline volunteer, contact Dr. Tara Czepiel, DVM, DACVO, at taraczepiel@gmail.com or call 630.479.3066.
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Pet-Loss Sympathy Card
CVMA provides unique Pet-Loss sympathy cards for practices to distribute to owners whose pets have passed. Proceeds from the sale of the cards provide funding for the Pet-Loss programs. The cards reflect that a donation has been made in memory of the pet. Cards include space for personalization and information about the Pet-Loss Program. For more information and pricing, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org.
| | Articles included in VetConnectChicago are meant to inform, educate, and inspire by providing an array of diverse viewpoints. Any content published should not be viewed as an official stance, position, or endorsement by the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) or its Board of Directors. | |
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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