SAVETCON

Hill's Webinar: Communication tactics: Winning with difficult conversations
2024-03-14 19:30 - 20:30 (Europe/Helsinki) | Online
Speaker: Desiré Rees, Humanco
Toxic emotions and dysfunctional behaviour happen in the absence of a candid conversation and this causes the greatest damage. Many of us struggle to speak up & have courageous conversations . It is often when it matters most that we do our worst. Join us for strategies on how to win when stakes are high, emotions are strong and opinions differ.

Human Rights Day
2024-03-21

SAVA Pretoria Branch CPD Evening
2024-03-27 19:00 - 20:30 | Vethouse, 47 Gemsbok Avenue, Monument Park, Gauteng, 0181, South Africa

Easter Weekend
2024-03-29 - 2024-04-01

39th World Veterinary Association Congress
2024-04-16 08:00 - 2024-04-19 17:00 | Cape Town ICC, Convention Square, 1 Lower Long Street, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
On behalf of the South African Veterinary Association, the World Veterinary Association and the global veterinary community, we are delighted to invite you to the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress (WVAC2024) that will take place in Cape Town, South Africa from 16 to 19 April 2024. The award-winning Cape Town International Convention Center will host local and international delegates at the backdrop of the iconic Table mountain.
We hope that you will take this opportunity to fulfil your continuing education needs in veterinary science, meet colleagues from all over the world, and visit the wonderful city of Cape Town.
May this be a very successful and enjoyable congress and may your time with us be enthralled with Mzansi* magic.
(*Mzansi is a colloquial name for South Africa and is derived from the Xhosa word umzantsi meaning “south”.)
REGISTER
SUBMIT AN ABSTRACT
BECOME A SPONSOR

Gobiosis Laboratory Launch
2024-04-29 13:00 - 18:00 | Gobiosis Midrand
We are delighted to extend an exclusive invitation to you and your esteemed team to join us for the much-anticipated launch event of Gobiosis, the premier laboratory infrastructure design company. The event will be a dynamic convergence of innovation and expertise, featuring a Smart Lab Infrastructure Workshop, a guided tour of our state-of-the-art Smart Lab Showroom, and culminating in a celebratory cocktail reception.
Event Details:
Date: 29th April 2024
Time: 13:00 – 16:00 hr
Venue: Gobiosis (Building No. 3), Midrand Business Park, 563 Midrand Business Park, Halfway House, Midrand, South Africa
At Gobiosis, we are committed to shaping the future of laboratory infrastructure, and this event presents a unique opportunity for your organization to explore the forefront of lab design and optimization.
Agenda:
▪Welcome Address: Introduction to Gobiosis and Our Vision
▪Smart Lab Infrastructure Workshop: Insights into Design, Efficiency, and Sustainability
▪Guided Tour of Smart Lab Showroom: Experience Innovation in Action
▪Cocktail Reception: Network with Industry Leaders, Customers, Prospective Customers, and Partners
Our expert team will lead engaging discussions and practical demonstrations, providing you with valuable insights and strategies to enhance the productivity and effectiveness of your laboratory spaces.
Please RSVP by 23rd March to confirm your attendance and ensure we can accommodate your team comfortably. You can RSVP by replying to this email or contacting me on telephone number +27 684261460 or +44 7951598377.

SAAVT Webinar: Test Method Validation of Veterinary Laboratories in SA
2024-04-30 10:00 - 14:00 | Online

Worker's Day
2024-05-01

Webinar: 10 behaviour tips for the veterinary team
2024-05-09 19:30 - 20:30
Behaviour may be a topic that conjures up dread but it doesn’t have to be. The science of dog and cat cognition, neurodevelopment, personality and welfare is progressing at a rapid rate and it can be hard to stay up to date with the ways that this should be changing how we work. In this talk, we will delve into 10 practical things that you can do in practice to support your patients’ mental and emotional health, make things safer for you and your team, and turn tucked tails and hisses into wags and purrs.
About our Speaker:
Dr Aileen Pypers is the owner of Pets at Play Veterinary Behaviour Consultancy in the Western Cape which receives referrals from veterinarians and behaviourists throughout South Africa.
Aileen graduated as a veterinarian in 2010 from the University of Pretoria and completed an honours level module in clinical behaviour medicine in 2013. She also has a Diploma in Higher Education from Stellenbosch University (2018) and a Postgraduate Diploma in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law through Edinburgh University (2023).
She worked as a state veterinarian for over 7 years, has served on animal behaviour and welfare committees of the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA), currently serves on the management committee of the Cart Horse Protection Association, and is a member of the Cape Animal Welfare Forum.
Aileen does consulting work for Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Humane Society International, has served as an expert witness on several dog bite legal cases, and advises on dog behaviour for several animal welfare organisations.
She has a passion for teaching and has spoken on behavioural medicine and animal welfare topics at multiple conferences and CPD events. She has also done guest lectures on animal welfare, behaviour and one health at the Universities of Pretoria and Stellenbosch.

Mpumalanga CPD Evening
2024-05-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Protea Hotel Nelspruit, 30 Jerepico St, Orchards, Mbombela, Mpumalanaga, South Africa

SAVA Oranje Vaal Branch CPD Day
2024-05-18 09:00 - 16:00 | Willow Banks Lodge, Parys, Stand no 1 of Portion 160 The Grange, Parys, South Africa

Webinar: Calling all industry leaders!
2024-05-21 19:00 - 20:00 | ZOOM
PLEASE NOTE – THIS WEBINAR IS FOR INDUSTRY ONLY

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of South Africa’s veterinary community?
Join us for an exclusive webinar on Tuesday 21 May at 19h00-20h00, where you’ll discover how you can play a key role in supporting SAVA’s mentorship program.
For over a century, SAVA has been at the forefront of veterinary excellence, adapting and innovating to meet the evolving needs of our profession to enhance animal and human health. Now, more than ever, our community faces unprecedented challenges with a real risk of collapse that will have dire consequences for the industry and production sectors.
Veterinarians are leaving in alarming numbers, and those who remain are grappling with overwhelming mental health pressures.
SAVA’s mentorship program for vets in their Compulsory Community Service (CCS) year was launched in 2020 and has already made significant strides in enhancing clinical skills and improving mental health and well-being among this crucial group of young veterinarians. However, to sustain and expand this program, we need the support of all industries related to animal health.
In this webinar we will discuss:
1. The dire state of veterinary services in South Africa.
2. The critical pivotal role of veterinary services on the entire value chain.
3. The mental health status of veterinarians, and possible solutions.
4. Successes since 2020 of the mentorship program.
5. How industry can be involved in shaping the future of veterinary services.
By joining our webinar, you’ll gain invaluable insights into the mentorship program’s impact, uncover ways you can contribute, and explore the benefits your business can reap by backing this vital initiative.
Don’t miss out on this chance to be a driving force behind the future of veterinary care.
Register now and stand with us as we pave the way for brighter days ahead – for veterinarians, para-veterinarians and the animal population of South Africa.

Gert Steyn, Managing Director SAVA
Dr Paul van der Merwe, President SAVA

Webinar: Latest Research: Supporting production efficiency of modern livestock
2024-05-22 18:00 - 19:30 | Livestorm (online)
Programme:

18h00 – 18h05: Welcoming and introduction of speaker – Adéle Rothmann – Virbac Product Manager: Micronutrients & Nutrition
18h05 – 19h15: Presentation by Dr Paula Gonzalez-Rivas
19h15 – 19h30: Q&A session

Speaker bio: Dr Paula Gonzalez-Rivas is the Technical Services Manager for Livestock Nutrition at Virbac Australia. She is a veterinarian with a Master’s degree in Animal Studies from the University of Queensland, a PhD in Agricultural Sciences from the University of Melbourne, and five years of experience in small and large animal practice in Chile. Paula has experience in research applied to nutrition and heat stress in ruminants. During her Masters, Dr Gonzalez-Rivas studied the role of phosphorus in beef cattle, while in her PhD, she focused on heat stress abatement strategies using nutritional management in sheep and dairy cattle. She has also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in meat quality in feedlot cattle
This webinar was accredited for 1 CPD Point – AC/1828/24

NATIONAL ELECTIONS
2024-05-29

Hill's Young Vets CPD Weekend
2024-06-08 13:00 - 2024-06-09 13:30 | Glenburn Lodge, Kromdraai Road, Zwartkops, Muldersdrift, South Africa
You’re Invited!
If you needed a sign to level up, this is it! Our Young Vets Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for a bit of a break away, lots of CPD and networking with other recently qualified colleagues. Join us for a lekker line up of speakers and CPD of around 6 points as well as a relaxed dinner sponsored by Boehringer-Ingelheim. It’s open to vets that have qualified in the last 7 years.
This event will also be streamed online for a small fee, however we do recommend attending in person to get the most out of this opportunity.
SPEAKERS:

Dr Geoff Brown
Dr Karien Brink
Dr Vanessa McClure
Dr Megan Brown

YOUTH DAY
2024-06-16

PUBLIC HOLIDAY (Youth Day)
2024-06-17

Webinar: Feelin’ Retro...virus?
2024-06-25 19:00 - 20:30 | Livestorm (online)
This webinar will cover:

Review the pathogenesis of feline leukaemia virus
Discuss diagnostic challenges associated with FeLV
Discuss the history of and current evidence related to feline injection site sarcomas
Review immunologic principles of vaccines and discuss current options for FeLV prevention

SPEAKER:
Karen Stasiak, MSN, DVM, MSc(CMID)
Dr. Karen Stasiak is the Head of Core Diagnostics and Infectious Disease Platforms with the Global Diagnostic team at Zoetis. She earned her DVM degree from the Ohio State University in 2001, a Master’s degree in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease from the University of Edinburgh in 2021, and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 1994. Prior to joining with Zoetis, she was in private practice for 13 years, owning a mixed animal practice in Colorado. She received additional training in Comparative Animal Medicine and worked in laboratory animal medicine at National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine in Denver. She is also a neonatal nurse practitioner and worked in the newborn intensive care unit for 20 years, which similar to veterinary medicine, involves caring for patients that can’t talk and have parents.

Webinar: WONJI -Working ON Not Just IN their practices
2024-07-11 19:30 - 20:30 | Livestorm (online)
Veterinarians and their teams are so deeply embedded in the day to day tasks of running a practice that they lose sight of their vision, mission, and core values. Assuming that they have them. Those practices that are most successful will WONJI. What is WONJI – Working ON Not Just IN their practices. Learn how to WONJI to set your path for success.
About our speaker
Dr Peter Weinstein
Dr Peter Weinstein is a husband, father, pet parent, veterinarian and leader
He has been involved with virtually all aspects of veterinary practice from a 15 year old kennel kid to a hospital owner.
Organized veterinary medicine has been a passion as well with various roles and leadership and presidencies of Southern California VMA, California VMA, and Vet Partners.
He is a published author, most notably of the EMyth Veterinarian-Why Most Veterinary Practices Don’t Work and What to Do About It.
Currently, he is teaching business and finance at the Veterinary College of Western University of Health Sciences.
He likes to think of himself as a free thinking change agent and disruptor who, because he has a daughter who is a veterinarian, is working for an even better veterinary profession in the future.
Proudly hosted by:

Webinar: Osteoarthritis from a Surgical Perspective
2024-07-30 19:30 - 20:30 | Livestorm (online)
In the prime of their days, when the dance of youth fades to the arthritic whispers of time, we turn to the delicate art of surgery to restore grace to our canine companions. The surgeon, like a masterful artist, wields their tools with precision and compassion, seeking to alleviate the burdens of pain.
With the gentle touch of arthroscopy, a window is opened into the joint’s secret world, where fragments of discord are delicately removed, allowing the symphony of movement to play once more. In the ballet of bones, osteotomy repositions the players, realigning the choreography to ease the strains of life’s wear and tear.
For those whose joints have become unyielding prisons of pain, joint replacement offers a rebirth, where prosthetic marvels bestow newfound freedom and joy. When even this is not enough, arthrodesis steps in, sacrificing motion for the solace of pain’s release, ensuring a life of comfort over suffering.
And in the smallest of our friends, excisional arthroplasty gently reshapes the future, creating a false joint that, though unconventional, gifts them a life unchained from the relentless grip of discomfort.
Each surgical stroke, guided by knowledge and compassion, paints a picture of hope and renewal. Through careful preoperative consideration and diligent postoperative care, we shepherd our loyal friends back to the vibrant dance of life, their steps once more light and free.
About our speaker
Dr Peter Guy BSc, BVSc, MMedVet (Surg)
Specialist Surgeon
After graduating from Onderstepoort in 2013, Dr. Peter Guy commenced his career as a general practitioner at Panorama Veterinary Clinic in 2014. Driven by a profound passion for progressive learning in small animal surgery, he has dedicated significant effort and time to learning and trying to better himself in both orthopaedic and soft tissue fields. In 2021, he embarked on a rigorous surgical residency, successfully completing it by the end of 2023. His dedication to these specialties is evident in his meticulous approach to surgical procedures and his commitment to advancing veterinary surgical techniques. Dr. Guy is now a qualified specialist in Small Animal Surgery. Beyond his professional pursuits, he enjoys outdoor activities and long-distance running whenever his schedule allows. At home, he shares his life with four dogs, three cats, and two children.

WOMEN'S DAY
2024-08-09

SAVA Oranje Vaal Branch CPD Weekend - POSTPONED TO 2025
2024-08-09 08:00 - 2024-08-11 17:00

Webinar: The latest step by step diagnostic approach to the pruritic pet
2024-08-15 19:30 - 21:00 | BigMarker
A pruritic pet is one of the most common reasons for a client to seek veterinary care, however, can sometimes prove to be a diagnostic headache. Join us as we work through a step-by-step approach to diagnose and manage the most common pruritic diseases in dogs and cats.
Agenda

19h30 – Welcome
19h33 – Hill’s Snippet
19h40 – The latest step by step diagnostic approach to the pruritic pet
20h40 – Questions and Answers
20h50 – Close of Webinar

About our Speaker
Dr Louis Loubser
BVSc, Resident: Small Animal Internal Medicine
After graduating from Onderstepoort in 2018, Louis completed his CCS year in Standerton, Mpumalanga. In 2020, he joined the team at Panorama Veterinary Clinic as a general practitioner where he developed a keen interest in small animal internal medicine. Driven by his passion for problem solving and love of medicine, Louis embarked on an internal medicine residency in 2022. Dr Loubser is currently completing the final year of his medicine residency. Together with his wife, who is also a veterinarian, and their Golden Retriever, they enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and spending time at the beach.

Webinar: Fostering Client Growth & Loyalty - strategies for effective marketing
2024-09-12 19:30 - 21:00 | Livestorm (online)
During this session we will take a deep dive into the art of cultivating a thriving client base through strategic marketing techniques.
Explore innovative approaches to attract new customers while nurturing existing relationships for enduring loyalty. Through engaging case studies and actionable insights, you’ll learn how to craft compelling messaging, personalize interactions, and create memorable experiences that resonate with your audience.
Uncover the secrets of building a brand that customers can’t help but advocate for. This session equips you with the tools to elevate your marketing strategies, fostering client growth and loyalty that drive sustained success in today’s competitive landscape.
About our speaker
Eric D. Garcia
When it comes to helping veterinary practices streamline their technology and attract and retain clients, Eric Garcia has a proven track record of educating the industry and producing results.
Eric is an internationally recognized IT and Digital Strategist working exclusively within the field of veterinary medicine. Garcia’s work has been recognized throughout the industry.
Eric was voted VMX 2020 Speaker of the Year by conference attendees. He speaks regularly at conferences all throughout the world.

Webinar: Puppy Pruritus – Stopping the itch early!
2024-09-17 19:30 - 21:00 | Livestorm (online)
Nutrition is important in the management of allergic skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and food allergies. When these conditions are diagnosed in puppies, it is essential that the food selected to help manage their skin condition provides all the key nutrients necessary for optimal growth and development. We will discuss the frequency that these conditions are seen in puppies and how nutrition can support both skin health and growth.
During this webinar we’ll also be launching an exciting new product in the Prescription Diet Derm range, so please join us to hear all about it!
About our speaker
Dr Becky Mills
Dr Becky Mullis is a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. She received her BS in Animal Science from the University of Maryland and her DVM from the University of Tennessee. After graduation, she completed a private practice rotating internship and worked as an emergency veterinarian. After a few years, she returned to the University of Tennessee where she completed a residency in clinical nutrition. Dr Mullis is currently Senior Manager Scientific Affairs with Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

HERITAGE DAY
2024-09-24

Annual PARSA Conference 2024
2024-10-06 08:00 - 2024-10-08 17:00

SAAVT Biennial Conference 2024
2024-10-09 08:00 - 2024-10-10 17:00 | 26 Degrees South, Beyers Naudé Dr, Zwartkops, Muldersdrift, South Africa

Webinar: EP4 antagonist - An important tool in managing chronic OA pain & inflammation in our patients
2024-10-23 12:30 - 13:30, 2024-10-23 19:30 - 20:30 | Livestorm (online)
Dr Kenneth Joubert will be presenting on: EP4 antagonist – An important tool in managing chronic OA pain & inflammation in our patients.
You can register for either Session 1 at 12h30 or Session 2 at 19h30. Click on the date and time block at the top of the page to choose your timeslot.
Stay until the end of each webinar and stand a chance to win a Littman Classic Stethoscope!
