CVMA's Official Monthly Newsletter | | |
Dr. Laubert's specific interests in veterinary medicine are preventive care and dentistry. Dr. Laubert works in general practice at Homewood Veterinary Care, in Homewood, IL. In addition, he works at SNIP Society in Joliet, IL, where he does dentistry and low-cost vaccine clinics. Further, he served on the CVMA Board for several years and was the co-chair of the Membership Committee.
Dr. Laubert published his first book in October of 2025, "A Journey with Grief." Recently, he published his first veterinary-related book, "Paws and People: Anecdotes from the Veterinary Exam Room."
Dr. Laubert graduated from Florida Atlantic University, earning a B.S. degree in International Business and Kent State University, earning a M.A. degree in Spanish. He worked at the Radiological Society of North America prior to attending the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine to earn his DVM degree. Thank you to Dr. Laubert for his commitment to CVMA and to veterinary medicine. Thank you, too, to his dog, Zeke, for posing with him for this photo.
| | Board of Directors Announcements | |
Certified Veterinary Technician Membership
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce a new membership category for Certified Veterinary Technicians (CVTs). A CVT Program Development Task Force is in place working on creating best-in-class programs that meet the needs of CVTs. We look forward to offering relevant and valuable benefits to these essential staff members.
Stay tuned for more information.
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CVMA Member and Staff Policies
CVMA's member and staff policies represent the values and integrity of the Association and the professionals in the field of veterinary medicine, ensuring ethical behavior. They protect CVMA's mission and safeguard the reputation of both the Association and its members. The Board approved the following member and staff policies: Whistleblower, Codes of Ethics and Conduct, Conflict of Interest. In addition to these policies, a Confidentiality Policy was approved for Officers and Staff. More.
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March Course
Surgery Unleashed: Tips and Tricks
for Successful Outcomes
Presenters: Philippa Pavia, VMD, DACVS-SA
with Lisa Mason DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP
Date: March 10: 8:30am-4pm
Location: In-person at the Brookfield Zoo
Six (6) RACE-approved credit hours
Do not miss this six-hour RACE approved premier course to add to your current knowledge in Wound Management, Surgical Oncology, The Orthopedic Exam, Changing the Course of Osteoarthritis (OA), Upper Airway Surgery, and Emergency Surgery. Attendees receive copies of the instructor student notes via email.
Connect with other veterinarians and share what is happening in the field of veterinary medicine. A continental breakfast and lunch are included. MORE.
REGISTER TODAY
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April 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.
REGISTER NOW
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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.
March 11 – Surgery Unleashed: Tips and Tricks for Successful Outcomes
Presenter: Philippa Pavia, VMD, DACVS-SA with Lisa Mason DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP
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.
| | Complimentary Web Seminar | |
Build a Healthier Veterinary Practice
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.
Preventive Care That Works: Engaging Clients,
Empowering Teams, Growing Practices
Preventive care is shared with pet owners; however, many still struggle to turn recommendations into real client action. This event on Thursday, February 19th at 1:30pm CT offers practical ideas teams can use right away to strengthen client conversations, improve compliance, and build healthier practices. More and register via the CVMA member portal.
If you have questions, contact Kayla at kmarshall@Chicagovma.org or call 630.325.1231.
| | The membership of the CVMA is dedicated to the health and well-being of animals through its nurturing of the human-animal bond. Feel free to share the below information with your patients' owners. | | |
Pet Emergency Preparedness
One never knows when an emergency happens and evacuation from home is necessary. Pets are family members and should be included in preparations in case of emergencies. A backpack preparedness kit can be created by the owners to be sure that important items are immediately available to the owners for the welfare of their pets. Along with food and medical supplies and records, have a photo of you and your dog. This helps show pet ownership if separation occurs. All items should be in waterproof containers and bags. Pet vaccines should be up-to-date; microchipping is recommended. More.
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Traveling With Your Pet
If you're planning to travel with your pet, you may need to complete certain paperwork or tasks before you go. The USDA recommends meeting with an accredited veterinarian to discuss your options. Meeting these requirements takes time, so do not delay. More.
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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.
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Chevron Lucency
Interpreting dental radiographs in dogs and cats can be challenging, particularly when assessing teeth for possible endodontic disease. This column discusses the classic radiographic signs individually. More.
Are Modern Recovery Systems the Next Standard in Veterinary Medicine?
Controlled oxygen environments have been standard in human neonatal and pediatric care for decades. Veterinary medicine is approaching a similar turning point, one defined by higher expectations, stronger evidence, and smarter infrastructure. More.
Four Ways to Fill Your Schedule
Because full schedules ensure healthy profits, experts advise aiming for an appointment fill rate of 85 percent. Exceeding 90 percent capacity could lead to less same-day appointment availability for sick patients, turn away new clients who cannot get timely care, and risk team burnout. More.
Kinesiology Taping
One of the approaches currently gaining traction is kinesiology taping (KT), a technique for humans and animals, with bold colors and intriguing patterns. Learn more about this non-invasive modality. More.
The Dental is in the Details: CT Scan in Veterinary Dentistry
The increase in accessibility and capabilities of computed tomography (CT) technology has led to a growth in its use in the veterinary industry. Dentistry is an area where CT imaging can be particularly useful. More.
USDA Approves Drug for Canine Allergic and Atopic Dermatitis
U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved Befrena (tirnovetmab), an anti–IL-31 monoclonal antibody injection for the treatment of canine allergic and atopic dermatitis. More.
Student Loan Changes
The Department of Education has proposed major student loan changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including new borrowing limits and the elimination of several existing repayment plans. More.
| | Veterinarian and CVT Collaboration | |
Veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians Prioritizing Greater Collaboration to Tackle Challenges
Collaboration among veterinary and veterinary technician organizations has resulted in a renewed focus on strengthening the future of veterinary technician education, credentialing, and support systems across the profession. Programs with higher pass rates are more likely to require clinical experience for admission. Students who had active roles—as opposed to only observing—in clinical settings prior to testing were more likely to report feeling prepared and to pass on their first attempt. More.
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Slow down of Veterinary Practice Corporate Purchases
A recent industry summary shows that the pace of veterinary practice corporate buying has slowed. Consolidators acquired an estimated 1,000-1,200 practices in 2021, but that volume fell to roughly 300-500 acquisitions in 2022 and about 500 in 2023. Independent buyers, such as associates or local veterinarians, are growing. According to the 2025 AVMA Report on the Economic State of the Veterinary Profession, corporate groups now own roughly 30% of U.S. practices and generate more than half of companion animal revenue.
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The Stay Interview
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a motivational theory in psychology comprising a five-tier model of human needs. From the bottom of the hierarchy upwards, the needs are: physiological (food and clothing), safety (job security), love and belonging needs (friendship), esteem, and self-actualization. Needs lower in the hierarchy must be satisfied before individuals can attend to needs higher up.
Creating a workplace culture that has a sense of belonging and engagement is essential to ensure that high-performing staff members are satisfied. In the busy field of veterinary medicine, Stay Interviews help maximize retention of staff before issues escalate. Stay interviews are conversations with high-performing employees with the goal of discovering what they like about the role, what they would like to change, and how to help them be engaged and satisfied.
During a stay interview, asking the right questions will help leaders assess job fulfillment and employee satisfaction. Keep talented staff members happy. More.
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A Rich History through Membership
CVMA was established 130 years ago. The history is rich and paved the way for the future. Our members are connecting with the history and building the journey of veterinary medicine in Chicago.
Historical points
- Founding: The organization was established on August 7, 1896. Early presidents included notable veterinarians such as R.G. Walker (1896-1897), James Robertson (1898), and Joseph Hughes (1899).
- Connection to Education: In the early 1900s, students at the Chicago Veterinary College (founded 1883) were required to be members of the local veterinary medical association.
| To our current members, thank you for your commitment to veterinary medicine in Chicago. Non-members, have a voice while enjoying the continuing and new benefits of the organization.—JOIN TODAY. | | 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. | | |
Reminders About Animal Rabies Testing for 2026
IDPH Laboratories has published their most recent guidelines for animal rabies testing in 2026.Illinois law dictates that dogs and cats that bite people should either undergo a 10-day rabies observation OR be tested for rabies. If an owner or veterinarian chose to euthanize an animal rather than complete a rabies observation, that test must be submitted for fee-based testing at the UIVDL. More.
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Applications Open for Federal Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program
Following a nearly yearlong hiatus, the 2026 application cycle for the federal Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP) opened January 13.he program has not only seen an increase in funding but also new guidance and evaluation criteria for both first-time and renewal applicants. More.
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Combat illegal xylazine while protecting veterinary access
Xylazine 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. More.
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Visit to the Hill
We are pleased to share that Karen Woodard, CVMA Secretary and Government Affairs Chair, will be participating in the legislative AVMA 2026 fly-in to Washington, D.C. that will take place from February 22-24, to meet directly with lawmakers and their staff. When in Washington, the participants receive deep briefing on policy priority issues affecting the field of veterinary medicine. AVMA arranges advocacy meetings regarding the issues with the members of Congress. Fly-in participants learn how to develop relationships with their elected officials and become trusted voices of veterinary medicine. That unique, hands-on experience makes this event an impactful opportunity for both veterinarians and veterinary students.
These gatherings ensure that the voice of the veterinary profession is amplified on Capitol Hill. AVMA shared that during the 2025 fly-in, over 360 veterinary professionals participated in more than 270 meetings with congressional offices. Participants came from 50 states and represented 34 different veterinary schools.
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Fraudulent Email Targeting Licensees
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has received reports of a scam email effort targeting licensees.
The fraudulent message asks recipients to confirm receipt of documents and claims that additional details will be shared once confirmation is provided. The department says this is a common phishing tactic designed to elicit a reply and potentially obtain personal identification information.
The IDFPR lists the following key indicators that says why this email is a scam:
- Suspicious email address: While the display name may appear official, the actual reply-to address is unusual and unrelated to the State. For example, the scam email begins with an Illinois.gov email address but uses a reply to domain like illinois.gov.atlantcwoodcraft.com which is not an official Illinois government domain.
- Impersonation of Department staff: The sender claims to be "Sharon L. Keppler, Compliance Department" This individual is not affiliated with the Department.
- Unverified contact details: The phone numbers provided in the email do not belong to the Department.
- Unusual request: Asking you to confirm receipt before sharing further details is a red flag for phishing attempts.
The IDFPR says licensees should be aware that:
- The IDFPR only sends emails from official Illinois.gov addresses.
- The IDFPR will never ask licensees to confirm receipt of documents in this manner.
If you receive such an email, the IDFPR says not to respond and to not click any links. Report suspicious messages to FPR.Comms@Illinois.gov.
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National Pet Dental Health Month
February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Sponsored by the AMVA, a focus is on the critical, often overlooked, role of oral hygiene in a pet's overall health. Proper dental care, including annual veterinary checkups, prevents serious diseases that can damage a pet's heart, liver, and kidneys.
More to share with your pet owners to help them understand why pet dental health matters.
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World Spay Day is February 24th
World Spay Day advocates spaying, or neutering, as a proven means of saving the lives of companion animals, community--feral and stray cats--and street dogs who might otherwise be put down in a shelter or killed on the street. World Spay Day is on February 24 and occurs on the last Tuesday in February of each year. This is an opportunity to spread awareness to help alleviate the homeless pet overpopulation and to reduce euthanasia rates.
| | Featured Value-Added Benefit for Members | | |
CVMA is pleased to bring you value-added benefits. We have partnered with attorneys, business services, 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. Visit the Value-Added Member Benefits folder to access the information.
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Mental Health Wellness
CVMA provides our members and their families support sources for mental health wellness. This is a confidential program to which you do the outreach to meet with the appropriate professionals. No costs are incurred by the member or the family of the CVMA member. Access the information in the member portal, under Member Benefits. If you need assistance in entering the portal, contact Kayla at kmarshall@Chicagovma.org.
| | Pet Loss Sympathy Cards for Clients | |
NEW Pet Loss Sympathy Cards
The NEW CVMA Pet Loss Sympathy cards provide a thoughtful way to acknowledge grief and reinforce the bond of care between veterinary teams and pet owners. All proceeds from the sale of CVMA Sympathy Cards directly benefit the CVMA Pet Loss Support Helpline and Pet-Loss Support Group, essential resources that provide comfort, guidance, and emotional support to grieving pet owners. For more information and to place an order contact Kayla at kmarshall@Chicagovma.org or call 630.325.1231.
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Official Facebook Page
Look for this photo on the official CVMA Facebook page and follow us!
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Let's Connect
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, and be part of the community. If you have questions, contact Kayla at kmarshall@chicagovma.org. See you on Instagram and Facebook. Spread the word. Connect.
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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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