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Beginning with the End in Mind
The concept of equity recognizes historical and current barriers and promotes thriving for veterinary teams and people and animals in the community. It is possible to design equitable workplace systems to prevent and respond to harm using learnings from h... moreThe concept of equity recognizes historical and current barriers and promotes thriving for veterinary teams and people and animals in the community. It is possible to design equitable workplace systems to prevent and respond to harm using learnings from human medicine and the social sciences. These systems are grounded in the principles of health equity and must incorporate both formal policies and intentional cultivation of supportive culture and relationships. This article is part 2 of 2 articles reviewing how the concept of equity applies and could transform well-being in companion animal veterinary practice in North America. less
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One Profession, Multiple Identities
It is a well-known fact in veterinary medicine that the field has struggled to diversify the profession and is one of the most homogenous careers in the United States. Discrimination is still quite common in the United States, despite decades of policy ch... moreIt is a well-known fact in veterinary medicine that the field has struggled to diversify the profession and is one of the most homogenous careers in the United States. Discrimination is still quite common in the United States, despite decades of policy changes and implementation of DEI practices. This study discusses how veterinary medicine can benefit from an intersectional approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It discusses the need of intersectional data to better understand the disparities that exist within veterinary medicine to make a more significant impact. less
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Caring for the Caregivers
Veterinary medicine has embarked on a journey of understanding the factors impacting the psychological, emotional, physical, and social health of its people. Discussions of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging must address wellbeing; discussions of... moreVeterinary medicine has embarked on a journey of understanding the factors impacting the psychological, emotional, physical, and social health of its people. Discussions of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging must address wellbeing; discussions of wellbeing must address diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The profession and the world at large have failed to draw a direct correlation between the two. This article sheds light onto the inextricable link between the two so that no one is left behind as the health of the profession and its people advances. less
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Bridging Gaps in Veterinary Care
Pause for a moment to visualize a scenario tinged with somber reflection rather than celebration. Consider the life of an elderly woman, a retired public servant whose career as a librarian enriched countless individuals in her community. Now, in the tran... morePause for a moment to visualize a scenario tinged with somber reflection rather than celebration. Consider the life of an elderly woman, a retired public servant whose career as a librarian enriched countless individuals in her community. Now, in the tranquil latter years of her life, she faces a formidable challenge. Her cherished cat, a steadfast companion throughout her serene retirement, has fallen severely ill. The exorbitant cost of necessary medical treatment cast a long, dark shadow over their future together, ultimately leading to the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize, as the financial burden posed an insurmountable barrier to recovery. less
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine: Continuing to Forge a Path Forward Together
In the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine, the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has never been more evident. As the field expands and adapts to meet the needs of a rapidly diversifying world, it is essential that veterinary prof... moreIn the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine, the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has never been more evident. As the field expands and adapts to meet the needs of a rapidly diversifying world, it is essential that veterinary professionals not only excel in their clinical competencies but also embrace the principles of DEI to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and culturally responsive care. This publication serves as a guide and a call to action for veterinary professionals to integrate DEI into every facet of their practice, from patient care to professional development and beyond. less
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Diversifying the Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) Pipeline
Teams composed of racially diverse individuals from varied backgrounds offer broader experiences, insights, and methods in clinical approaches, communication, and may offer cultural familiarity to clients. Prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and be... moreTeams composed of racially diverse individuals from varied backgrounds offer broader experiences, insights, and methods in clinical approaches, communication, and may offer cultural familiarity to clients. Prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging on ethical grounds is essential, but the advantages of engaging Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) individuals in clinical specialist roles surpass ethical considerations alone. Research and industry data show a clear link between team diversity and better patient outcomes and business performance, notably in profitability and market expansion. How to engage BIPOC individuals in pursuing veterinary technician specialization, along with its challenges are multifaceted but achievable. less
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Diversity in Veterinary Specialty Medicine: A Robust History with Scant Documentation
The practical procedure to recant the early history of Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine (USVM) would be to examine the writing and record of the period. Historians oftentimes find a paucity of records that impede their studies. This does ... moreThe practical procedure to recant the early history of Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine (USVM) would be to examine the writing and record of the period. Historians oftentimes find a paucity of records that impede their studies. This does not mean that little of importance occurred; rather, it represents that no one took the time to record what was done, or in some instances, valuable historical records were unintentionally destroyed…
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Creating an Inclusive Experience for Veterinary Clients
Veterinary medicine is the cornerstone in the lives of countless pet owners. Despite this critically vast and critically important role, the veterinary profession faces significant challenges in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)—both within its profe... moreVeterinary medicine is the cornerstone in the lives of countless pet owners. Despite this critically vast and critically important role, the veterinary profession faces significant challenges in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)—both within its professional ranks and in the clientele it serves. As the number of pet-owning households in the United States continues to rise, it becomes more evident that there is an increasing need for veterinary practices to be receptive and supportive of an inclusive environment. less
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Beginning with the End in Mind
The concept of equity recognizes historical and current barriers and promotes thriving for veterinary teams and people and animals in the community. Veterinary medicine lacks sociodemographic diversity; veterinarians and other team members who identify wi... moreThe concept of equity recognizes historical and current barriers and promotes thriving for veterinary teams and people and animals in the community. Veterinary medicine lacks sociodemographic diversity; veterinarians and other team members who identify with systemically excluded groups offer valuable contributions but are at risk of workplace discrimination. Client families who face barriers for financial and other reasons are at risk of poor animal health and welfare outcomes, including separation from their animals. This article is part one of 2 articles reviewing how the concept of equity applies and could transform well-being in companion animal veterinary practice in North America. less
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Allies, Advocates, and Accomplices in Veterinary Medicine
For those new to the concept of allyship, this article will outline some of the foundation skills of allyship and strategies to overcome common hurdles. For those who consider themselves further along their allyship journey, there is material to encourage... moreFor those new to the concept of allyship, this article will outline some of the foundation skills of allyship and strategies to overcome common hurdles. For those who consider themselves further along their allyship journey, there is material to encourage more effective or strategic allyship activities. Readers are encouraged to reflect on the different ways they can practice allyship within their own organizations. For leadership and management, we outline why allyship is important in veterinary workplaces and set out some key organization changes that can build inclusive workplaces through allyship. less
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Equine Oncology: Why Does It Matter Anyway?
Whilst I would be the first to admit that oncology is not generally considered to be the most important field within equine medicine, this underserved area is growing in understanding, and the treatment options are often varied and complex with very littl... moreWhilst I would be the first to admit that oncology is not generally considered to be the most important field within equine medicine, this underserved area is growing in understanding, and the treatment options are often varied and complex with very little evidence behind many of the traditional approaches. New treatments are being investigated all the time, and as owners demand better treatment options for their horses, practitioners need to be at the forefront of these developments to best advise the management of these sometimes-complicated cases. less
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Unusual Equine Tumors
There are a number of unusual tumors in the horse. Gross tumor characteristics, anatomical location, and signalment may assist with identification. Clinical pathology is often unrewarding with non-specific findings, while fine needle aspirates may not obt... moreThere are a number of unusual tumors in the horse. Gross tumor characteristics, anatomical location, and signalment may assist with identification. Clinical pathology is often unrewarding with non-specific findings, while fine needle aspirates may not obtain sufficient tissue material to confirm a diagnosis. Although regular staining of biopsy material may be sufficient, immunohistochemistry markers may be required, especially in less differentiated tumors. The prognosis is dependent on the type, location, tumor size as well as on metastatic spread. A selection of unusual and rare tumors that the clinician is more likely to encounter is discussed. less
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Lymphoma & Myeloproliferative Disease
Lymphoma and myeloproliferative diseases in horses are relatively uncommon. The clinical signs, prognosis, and treatment options depend upon the anatomic location and subtype. Significant gaps in knowledge remain regarding prevalence, pathogenesis of diff... moreLymphoma and myeloproliferative diseases in horses are relatively uncommon. The clinical signs, prognosis, and treatment options depend upon the anatomic location and subtype. Significant gaps in knowledge remain regarding prevalence, pathogenesis of different subtypes, antemortem diagnostic tests, response to treatment, and standardized treatment protocols. However, treatment options are available, accessible on the farm, and could improve quality of life and prolong survival.
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Equine Melanoma Updates
Melanomas are very common in older gray horses, with 80% of gray horses having at least 1 melanoma by 15 years of age. Historically considered a benign disease, it is now known that up to 66% of lesions will eventually metastasize. Melanomas may also caus... moreMelanomas are very common in older gray horses, with 80% of gray horses having at least 1 melanoma by 15 years of age. Historically considered a benign disease, it is now known that up to 66% of lesions will eventually metastasize. Melanomas may also cause local problems due to abscessation, ulceration, and interference with function of the affected areas. Treatment can be limited by size and location, but surgical resection, where possible, is likely to be the treatment of choice.
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Surgical Management of Equine Neoplasia
Equine neoplasia poses challenges in surgical management owing to their diverse locations and potential for aggressive behavior. Surgical interventions aim for complete excision while minimizing cosmetic and functional impairments. Techniques such as lase... moreEquine neoplasia poses challenges in surgical management owing to their diverse locations and potential for aggressive behavior. Surgical interventions aim for complete excision while minimizing cosmetic and functional impairments. Techniques such as laser ablation and electrochemotherapy offer minimally invasive options for accessible tumors. For deeper or larger masses, surgical excision with adequate margins remains the gold standard. Preoperative biopsy and imaging guides surgical planning, ensuring complete tumor removal while preserving vital structures. Close adherence to a strict surgical protocol to prevent seeding of tumor cells, and, where possible, appropriate skin reconstruction techniques will improve cosmesis and outcome. less
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Diagnosis and Staging of Equine Neoplasia
The diagnosis of neoplasia in the horse is both simple and extremely challenging, depending on the type of neoplasm and its location. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis of a neoplastic condition is key to formulating an appropriate treatment plan if possible... moreThe diagnosis of neoplasia in the horse is both simple and extremely challenging, depending on the type of neoplasm and its location. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis of a neoplastic condition is key to formulating an appropriate treatment plan if possible or developing a palliative plan if curative treatment options do not exist. A combination of historical features, clinical examination findings, and diagnostic testing typically allow a working diagnosis of neoplasia to be made, with a definitive diagnosis requiring the identification of neoplastic cells in a sample or tissue. less
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Tumors of the Respiratory Tract
Thoracic neoplasia often presents with generalized and nonspecific clinical signs and should be considered as a differential especially when patients are nonresponsive to therapeutic intervention for more common differential diagnoses of respiratory disea... moreThoracic neoplasia often presents with generalized and nonspecific clinical signs and should be considered as a differential especially when patients are nonresponsive to therapeutic intervention for more common differential diagnoses of respiratory disease (such as equine asthma) and where there is evidence thoracic and/or abdominal effusion upon examination. Antemortem diagnosis can be challenging and working closely with a pathologist to differentiate the respective neoplasia is helpful. Early recognition and appropriate management of thoracic neoplasia are vital for patient welfare as rapid disease progression can be relatively quick, and/or the relatively advanced stage of disease in which these patients frequently present. less
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Oral and Sinonasal Tumors
This article reviews the different types of equine non-neoplastic and neoplastic oral and sinonasal tumors and describes their known prevalence and general characteristics. The clinical and ancillary diagnostic findings (primarily radiography and endoscop... moreThis article reviews the different types of equine non-neoplastic and neoplastic oral and sinonasal tumors and describes their known prevalence and general characteristics. The clinical and ancillary diagnostic findings (primarily radiography and endoscopy, and increasingly computed tomography) for each type of growth that can aid diagnosis are described. Most lesions require a histopathological confirmation of the diagnosed growth. The possible treatments and prognosis for these growths are briefly described. less
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Tumors of the Urogenital Tract
Neoplasia has been reported to involve the majority of the urinary system of the horse, with tumors affecting the kidneys and bladder most comprehensively described. Primary tumors of the external genitalia are relatively common in the horse and are easil... moreNeoplasia has been reported to involve the majority of the urinary system of the horse, with tumors affecting the kidneys and bladder most comprehensively described. Primary tumors of the external genitalia are relatively common in the horse and are easily identified on clinical examination while primary tumors of the upper urogenital tract are uncommon. This article will highlight the common tumors, their clinical presentations, and discuss potential medical and surgical treatment options available. The less common neoplasms will be mentioned but not discussed in depth. less
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What Is the Evidence Behind Sarcoid Treatments?
Despite the ubiquitous nature of sarcoids, robust data regarding the selection of treatment modalities are scarce, with many treatments having little or no published data to support their use. Treatment options are numerous and vary with the location and ... moreDespite the ubiquitous nature of sarcoids, robust data regarding the selection of treatment modalities are scarce, with many treatments having little or no published data to support their use. Treatment options are numerous and vary with the location and type of sarcoid, treatment accessibility, and the financial status of the owner. Many treatments are expensive and time-consuming, and some have health and safety implications. It is this author’s belief that, based on the limited evidence base, appropriate treatment options vary with the location and type of the sarcoid, and no one treatment is universally appropriate. less
