Providing LIVE IN PERSON Continuing Education
2020, 2021 and 2022 have been challenging years for many, but has also offered some interesting new innovative opportunities. We applaud those who have adapted to prosper during Covid and we salute those who have fought their way thru these crazy years.
Our company has consistently offered LIVE IN PERSON CE conferences for 38 years (since 1984). We know you have many choices to make when deciding how to fulfill your state licensing requirements. For 2022 we will be hosting live face to face conferences and would love to see both our old friends and welcome any new faces who prefer to attend live classes. Our vendors have stayed with us to help keep your costs reasonable while at the same time receiving the highest quality CE available.
The Bluegrass Veterinary Conference in Elizabeth, Indianan on July 28 - 31, 2022, Ralph Lee’s Great Smokies Veterinary Conference in Asheville, NC on November 16 - 20, 2022 and the Colonial Veterinary Conference in Williamsburg, VA on November 30 - December 4, 2022 have already experienced high bookings, so please plan ahead and make your reservations soon and please feel free to let your friends, classmates and associates know how you feel about our events.
Thank you, Howie and Martha Lee
LIVE Veterinary Conference Practicing Health & Safety Together!
Please follow these health and safety protocols with us to make this conference great!
SOCIAL DISTANCING
Join us in practicing social distancing during the conference, including the talks, in the Exhibits area, and all other areas. Please do not congregate in groups.
WASH HANDS
Please wash hands frequently for a minimum of 20 seconds. Hand sanitizing stations are available.
WEAR MASKS (optional)
All attendees, speakers and exhibitors may wear masks for the duration of the conference at the their discretion and not required unless the facility requires it. Employees are required to wear masks at all times.
CLEAN and SANITIZE
We are frequently cleaning high-touch areas throughout our properties.
FACILITY
Guests will find disinfecting stations with wipes and hand sanitizer available throughout our properties. Additionally, both public and Team Member areas are cleaned at scheduled intervals, including hourly maintenance of high-touch areas like elevators and bathrooms. All guest rooms will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between guests.
July 28 - 31, 2022
"At the beautiful Caesar's Southern Indiana Hotel and Casino"
Click Here to Download the Brochure with Registration Form
On-Site Registration is Now Available!
You can register Online now or On-Site, Walkins are Welcome, or
click here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and mail it with payment!
Register before July 12th, 2022 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!
Veterinarians $450.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $250.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
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One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00! |
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July 28 - 31, 2022
At the beautiful Caesar's Southern Indiana Hotel and Casino in Elizabeth, Indiana
For Hotel Reservations:
Room rates start at $120 + tax (standard room) and rate guaranteed until June 26th, 2022.
Room reservation can be made by calling Caesars Souther Indiana at 866-766-2671 and refer to group code S07VET7 or book online using the weblink created for this conference https://www.caesars.com/book/?propCode=UEL&action=FindRooms&groupcode=S07VET7
Scheduled Speakers
Dr. Paul Bloom, Dipl., ACVD and Dipl., ABVP, Canine, and Feline Specialty
Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, Sponsored by Purple Moon Herbs and Studies
Tracy Sheffield, CVPM
Dr. Craig A. Thompson, Diplomate ACVP
Dr. Marike Visser, DVM, PhD, DACVCP
Breakfast Session
Lunch Sessions
Tentative Schedule
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Thursday, July 28th, 2022Registration open 10am-6pmExhibitor set up 1pm-6pm, welcome to exhibit when setup |
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Speaker |
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Topic |
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Dr. Craig A. Thompson, Diplomate ACVP |
See Topic |
8:30 am - 10 am: The Body’s Trashcan - A Look at the Liver through the Clin Path Lens 10:15 am - 11:30: am Cytology - Interactive case-based discussions of lesions diagnosable in practice. 1 pm - 2:30 pm: The baseline database (CBC, serum biochemical panel and urinalysis). A case-based, INTERACTIVE dive into clin path labs 3 pm - 4:30 pm: Hematology - A look at the COMPLETE blood count. Beyond the numbers. |
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1-2:30pm 2:45-4:30pm |
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Welcome Reception on Thursday, July 28th at 5:30 - 6:00 pm, sponsored by
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Friday, July 29th, 2022Registration Open 8amBreakfast Buffet 8amExhibit Hall Open at 8am-4:30pm |
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Speaker |
Time |
Topic |
Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, Sponsored by Purple Moon Herbs and Studies |
8:30 am - 12:30 pm |
Dr. Dohmen will be hosting an herb walk at the Campbell-Woodland Nature Trail. Transportation will be provided from the conference center to the Nature Preserve, from which we will walk the trails and discuss the plants along the way. We will provide medicinal plant identification and uses. The area is known for some unlikely trees and plants, even cacti! This herb walk will encompass the entire afternoon session on Sunday. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, a note-taking device, and your camera! |
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Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, Sponsored by Purple Moon Herbs and Studies |
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm |
Bee Medicine: From Honey to Venom Not only do bees keep our food chain intact through pollination, but they offer us a myriad of sources of medicine. Honey is used both internally for many conditions as well as a topical wound healer. Propolis, Pollen and Royal Jelly are all nourishing and medically active. Lately, there is burgeoning research on the use of bee venom for pain and conditions that are associated with pain, such as arthritis. In this lecture, we will discuss all these great medicines we obtain from bees. (There will be a break) Mushrooms Mushrooms are a burgeoning new area of medicine. Learn about how and why as well as the safety of mushroom use. Specific mushrooms will be presented, as well as medicinal applications. |
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Dr. Paul Bloom, Dipl., ACVD and Dipl., ABVP, Canine, and Feline Specialty |
See Topics |
8:30 am - 10 am : Atopic Dermatitis – The New Paradigm And How It Changes The Way We Treat It- Part I 10:15 am - 11:30 am : Atopic Dermatitis – The New Paradigm And How It Changes The Way We Treat It- Part II How to perform and interpret bacterial cultures and the proper Antibiotic Use In Small Animal Dermatology - Part I 1 pm - 2:30 pm : How to perform and interpret bacterial cultures and the proper Antibiotic Use In Small Animal Dermatology - part I Otitis externa- quick, easy and successful treatment in the real world part I 3 pm - 4 pm : Titis Externa- quick, easy and successful treatment in the real world Part II |
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Tracy Sheffield, CVPM |
8:30 am - 10 am 10:15 am - 11:30 am 1 pm - 2:30 pm 3 pm - 4 pm |
For Practice Managers The WorkPlace Environment, The Overlooked Profit Center When Tacos and Doughnuts Stop Working, Fixes for a Toxic Workplace Where does the Money Go, How profits Trickle Away HR Horror Stories, Don't Let This Happen to You |
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Saturday, July 30th, 2022Registration Open 8amBreakfast Buffet 8amExhibit Hall Open 8am-4pm
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Speaker |
Time |
Topic |
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Dr. Marike Visser, DVM, PhD, DACVCP |
See Topics |
8:30 am - 10 am : What in the genomics does this mean? A review of interpreting genetic testing and an update of canine and feline pharmacogenomics. 10:15 am - 11:30 am : Adverse Drug Reactions: Understanding the risks and taking steps to limit the impact 1 pm - 2:30 pm : Assessing Clinical Efficacy: Tools to Assess and Why to Remain Skeptical 3 pm - 4 pm : Monoclonal Antibodies: The Next Wave of Therapeutics |
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Tracy Sheffield, CVPM |
8:30 am - 10 am 10:15 am - 11:30 am 1 pm - 2:30 pm 3 pm - 4 pm |
For Technicians Transitions, From Technician to Manager, What You Need to Know Dealing with Difficult Clients (Two Hour Workshop) Tips, Tricks and Techniques to make Everyday Practice Life Easier |
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Sunday, July 31st, 2022 |
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Speaker |
Time |
Topic |
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Dr. Marike Visser, DVM, PhD, DACVCP |
See Topics |
8:30 am - 10 am : What in the genomics does this mean? A review of interpreting genetic testing and an update of canine and feline pharmacogenomics. 10:15 am - 11:30 am : Adverse Drug Reactions: Understanding the risks and taking steps to limit the impact |
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8:30 am - 11:30 am |
Topics Coming Soon
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Please Note The Following:
*Times and Presenters Subject to Change
* Please turn off or silence cell phones in sessions
On-Site Registration is Now Available!
You can register Online now or On-Site, Walkins are Welcome, or
click here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and mail it with payment!
Register before July 12th, 2022 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!
Veterinarians $450.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $250.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
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One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00! |
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Speaker Bios...
Dr. Paul Bloom, Dipl., ACVD and Dipl., ABVP, Canine, and Feline Specialty
Dr. Paul Bloom, Dipl., ACVD and Dipl., ABVP, Canine, and Feline Specialty obtained board certification in the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 1984 and became Michigan's first board-certified veterinary dermatologist in full-time private practice in 2001 became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology.
In 2016, he became an Elite Fear Free Certified Professional. In 2020 Dr. Bloom achieved Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinarian status. In 2019 Dr. Bloom was honored by being selected for the Distinguished Alumni Practitioner Award from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Also in 2019 he was selected as Philanthropist of the from Michigan State University by the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Bloom also serves as adjunct faculty at the MSU veterinary college. He has lectured at numerous state, national and international conferences and has written many book chapters. He serves on the program committee for the ACVD and is a reviewer for many professional journals.
When he's not working, Dr. B spends his time playing hockey or relaxing at home in rural Northfield Township, Michigan with his wife and "menagerie" of animals which currently include; 3 horses, 2 mini donkeys, 1 goat, 1 sheep, 2 cats, and 1 dog.
Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS
Dr. Dohmen has received training in Acupuncture, Food Therapy, Bach Flower Essences, and most extensively Western Herbs. She received her Masters of Therapeutic Herbalism from Maryland University of Integrative Health in 2014. She was accepted as a Registered Herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild in 2020.
In 2013, Dr. Dohmen downsized her integrative mixed animal practice in southern Delaware. She is now a full-time continuing educator and lectures regularly on Western Herbal Veterinary Medicine, and other wholistic topics. She is published frequently in journals such as the Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association and the Integrative Veterinary Care Journal.
Dr. Dohmen is the Past President of the Veterinary Botanical Medical Association and is on the Editorial Board of the AHVMA Journal. She also owns Lowood Educational Center in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, a holistic educational venue.
Sponsored by Purple Moon Herbs and Studies
Tracy Sheffield, CVPM
Tracy Sheffield received her Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon State University. She has earned the designation of Certified Veterinary Practice Manager. Additionally, she is a Licensed Veterinary Technician in the state of Texas.
She is widely published including pieces in Veterinary Economics, Veterinary Technician, The Veterinary Business Journal (UK), and DVM 360. Tracy is a managing partner for T & L Veterinary Business Consulting. T & L Veterinary Business Consulting offers real world solutions to small and mid-sized practices in the areas of human resources and team building, marketing and client education, financial analysis and loss prevention and operations.
While engaged primarily in consulting Tracy is also the hospital administrator for Wimberley Veterinary Clinic. With over 20 years of experience managing a practice she is very familiar with the challenges faced by practice managers. Continuing to manage a practice in today's business environment allows her to keep a current viewpoint on the issues facing veterinary practices today.
Tracy is a two time national finalist (2016 & 2018) for Practice Manager of the Year. An avid horsewoman, Tracy is also vice president of the Texas Thoroughbred Association.
Dr. Craig A. Thompson, Diplomate ACVP
I attended Oklahoma State University from 1991-1998, receiving my DVM in 1998. I was did an internship at the University of Tennessee, followed by residency at Texas A&M University. I joined Purdue University in 2003, where I am currently a clinical associate professor. In addition to my duties as a faculty member, I completed a non-conforming residency in small animal internal medicine, with the ultimate goal of dual board certification in ACVP and ACVIM. My professional interests include diagnostic clinical pathology, histology and electron microscopy. Outside of work, I am an avid cyclist and plan on being in the Race Across America (RAAM) in 2025 as a solo participant.
Dr. Marike Visser, DVM, PhD, DACVCP
Marike Visser DVM, PhD, DACVCP is a veterinary clinical researcher at Zoetis Inc. She received her DVM from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. After completing a small animal internship, she returned to Auburn, completing a PhD in 2018 focusing on the differences between canine and feline cytochrome P450. Marike became a member of the American College of Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology in 2019. In addition to her publications in genomic and transcriptomics, Marike has published and presented on therapeutics in avian medicine and the application of evidence-based medicine for dosing exotic species. She has provided continuing education lectures on VIN and at WVC on a wide array of pharmacology topics. Marike is Vice-President of the American College of Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology and the Industry Representative on the AVMA Council of Biologics and Therapeutics (COBTA).
On-Site Registration is Now Available!
You can register Online now or On-Site, Walkins are Welcome, or
click here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and mail it with payment!
Register before July 12th, 2022 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!
Veterinarians $450.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $250.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
||
One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00! |
|||
What our Attendees Say!
Mountain Veterinary Conference : I just attended the Mountain Veterinary Conference and had a great time! The speakers were the same ones you see at the huge, expensive conferences but in a more intimate, affordable setting. The local area is beautiful and lots of fun to explore - I particularly enjoyed watching the elk herds cross the roads in the mornings. The Cherokee Casino was an excellent venue - easy to navigate ... read more
Katie Gies, DVM | Attendee - white.goosedvm@gmail.com
What our Attendees Say!
Mountain Veterinary Conference : I've been meaning to share my very positive review of the Mountain Veterinary Conference for months -- my apologies for not doing this sooner! The Mountain Veterinary Conference was a wonderful CE experience on all levels. There were a wide variety of high quality sessions, the setting was beautiful, the food and accommodations were excellent, and the exhibitors were helpful and informative... read more
Valerie Weiss, DVM | Attendee - vaweiss@ml1.net
What our Speakers/Exhibitors Say!
“What fun! We doubled our record for the number of copies of SMILE! sold in the first day. The relaxed atmosphere at the Fun n Sun Conference makes it easy to interact with everyone.” ... read more
Lynne Swanson, DVM | Speaker, Exhibitor - Safe Harbor Farm’s SMILE! Project
What our Speakers Say!
Thank you for having me speak this year at Sun N Fun; What a GREAT show! I have thoroughly enjoyed the kindness and hospitality shown by all. Great organization, great location, and great session topics! I urge all veterinary professionals to attend Sun N Fun next year, and not miss out on this fantastic CE event! ... read more
Jenny Cassibry Fisher, RVT, VTS | Speaker - jenny@practivet.com
What our Attendees Say!
I would like to extend a sincere "Thank You" to Howie and all those involved in hosting the Colonial Veterinary Conference in Colonial Williamsburg this December 2015. We attended a few years ago and were sold on this meeting for our ContEd This meeting has it all! Great speakers, wonderful hotel, delicious food, kind staff and lotsa' coffee! Howie makes sure everyone is comfortable and enjoying themselves.. The biggest impression our first time here years ago was not just the speakers, topics, and location.. but the obvious love this group has for one another AND for our Lord... read more
Dr. Donna M Gage | Running Paws Pet Hospital, McKinney, TX
What our Speakers Say!
I've been a speaker for at least a dozen meetings hosted by Veterinary Association Management in the last twenty or so years. The meetings are always well organized and managed. More importantly, the attendees are always eager to learn and happy to be there. The Lee family and all the staff are welcoming and the atmosphere is very family-friendly... read more
Margi Sirois, EdD, MS, CVT, LAT | Speaker
What our Speakers Say!
Veterinary Association Management conference are intimate and interactive. As a presenter, I have the opportunity to talk about behavior issues – a significant reason for relinquishment, and also how to speak with clients about these concerns, as well as getting pets to vets, including Fear Free and Cat Friendly Practices.
Steve Dale, CABC | Speaker
What our Attendees Say!
I've been going to Veterinary Association Management's Veterinary Conferences for 16 years. They are by far my favorite. The quality and choice of speakers always suits my needs. I feel that I get the most up-to-date and thorough information. Lectures focus on practical advice we can actually use - no ivory towers here... read more
Melanie Bene, DVM | Attendee
What our Attendees Say!
My family and I have always enjoyed Veterinary Association Management's (Ralph Lee's) continuing education courses. We have been attending them now for well over twelve years. We are always very delighted to attend the courses and conferences that Veterinary Management Association hosts. The benevolence of the Lee Family always shines forth, and they make my family feel more than welcome. The veterinary courses are extremely relevant to practice, and much of the information obtained can be put into effect the day we return. The speakers are of the utmost quality and ... read more
Drs. Charles and Dawn Jones | Mercy Animal Hospital, Monroe, NC
What our Speakers Say!
Thank you so much for allowing me to speak at this past weekend's Sun N Fun conference in South Carolina. It was a great experience. Howie, Martha, Dawn and the entire Veterinary Association Management team always knows how to make a speaker feel welcomed! The conference was so well organized which is a testament to the VAM team. Thank you so much for all your kindness. It was a true honoring getting to speak to the technicians at the conference. It was a great group who stayed engaged throughout! Thank you again. I hope you are all home getting to relax a little after working so hard to make the conference so successful. ... read more
Amy Newfield, CVT, VTS (ECC) | Speaker
What our Attendees Say!
I have been a veterinarian in NC since 1982. 33years. I have been getting my continuing education hours with Ralph Lee’s Veterinary Management for 28 years. My wife is a registered vet technician and we both must get yearly CE hours to continue our licenses. We have come to Ralph Lee’s Great Smokies Veterinary Conferences for last 20 years. I appreciate through the years the dedication to providing quality continuing education year after year. We enjoy the excellent speakers on subjects that are useful in regular day to day practice; comprehensive wet labs; and very affordable CE... read more
J. Michael Beck DVM and Jane Beck VMT | Emerywood Veterinary Hospital, High Point, NC
What our Speakers Say!
I've participated in several Veterinary Association Management continuing educational meetings and they are all top notch. Each meeting has it's own look and feel. The one consistent thread is excellent speakers and great topics/content being presented. I will be planning a family vacation around Fun N Sun veterinary conference. It's a must do for anyone looking for good CE and creating great memories with the family... read more
Paul Camilo, CVPM | Veterinary Consultation Services, LLC
What our Exhibitors Say!
The Center of Veterinary Expertise has had the pleasure of participating in Colonial Veterinary conference on several levels, sponsorship, vendor as well as providing speakers over the last three year. Howie and his team always ensure a positive, warm, and successful experience. We look forward to supporting the Colonial Veterinary Conference for many more years to come.
Danielle T. Russ | LVT, BS, BA, AS, Hospital Manager, the COVE, Suffolk, VA
What our Attendees Say!
It is not a small thing when gathering your CE credits that the meetings be orderly, well presented, convenient, accessible. Cudos to the Colonial Team. It was an all-around good experience.
Rob McBrayer, DVM | Palmetto Vet Hospital, Ridgeland, SC
What our Exhibitors Say!
I have been a equipment manufacturing design consultant for Snyder Mfg. for over 30 years. I have been attending the Ralph Lee's meetings for over 20 years of that time. The Ralph Lee's meetings are different than the standard veterinary conference meetings that are available. The meetings are designed to be very family friendly. The attendees and exhibitors are treated with more respect than any other of the veterinary meetings I attend. The smaller venue will also give everyone an opportunity to build long term relationships in the industry.
Ralph Ihde | Snyder Mfg., New Sharon, IA
What our Attendees Say!
I plan each year's continuing education requirements around Ralph Lee's Great Smokies Veteirnary Conference. The program venue is especially nice, this time of year, in Asheville, N.C. The Lee family (Howie, Martha and the crew) are most accommodating. They've always made this a pleasurable, meaningful experience. I secure a copy of the conference notes each trip. These notes serve as valuable information for me as I care for my patients on a daily basis. The saddest part, for me, is when the meeting concludes. Soon, I'll be planning for the 2016 conference.
Dr. William “Bill” Martin | Central Veterinary Hospital, Knoxville, TN
What our Exhibitors Say!
The Lees' vet meetings are some of the best...and I attend a lot of them! As both a veterinarian and an exhibitor I get the best of both worlds at these events.... Great Continuing Education and Great attendance to the exhibit booth. I attend every one I possibly can.
Dr. Dan Moore, DVM | Vet Assured, Unicoi, TN
What our Speakers Say!
I have lectured for Veterinary Association Management for the last 4 years and they consistently have wonderfully organized, informative and practical conferences for practicing small animal veterinarians. With a relatively small group of attendees ... read more
Kristin Welch DVM, DACVECC | CRITICAL CARE, CHIEF OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Exhibitors At The Conference
Please visit these Exhibitors at the Conference to see the latest and best products and services for your veterinary practice:
3 Sided Media - Sponsor |
MicroVet Diagnostics - Sponsor |
Vetinsure - Sponsor |
givesmiles.us - Silver Sponsor |
Summus Medical Laser |
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Natural Vet Companies/Vet Assured |
Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc - Bronze Sponsor |
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Purple Moon Herbs and Studies - Silver Sponsor |
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Rose Micro Solutions |
Rx Honing (Sharpening) Machine |
ServiceVet Technologies |
Southeast Medical Books |
Van Beek Natural Science |
Vet Kare Products |
Weave |
ZN Labs |
Conference Hotel Information
Caesars Southern Indiana Hotel and Casino
Our deluxe hotel rooms at Caesar's Southern Indiana are the perfect well-deserved indulgence for the most discriminating guests. All of our traditional, resort-style amenities are included, and of course the exceptional, attentive service for which Caesar's has always been known.
For Hotel Reservations:
Room rates start at $120 + tax (standard room) and rate guaranteed until July 5th, 2022.
Room reservation can be made by calling Caesars Souther Indiana at 866-766-2671 and refer to group code S07VET7 or book online using the weblink created for this conference https://www.caesars.com/book/?propCode=UEL&action=FindRooms&groupcode=S07VET7
On-Site Registration is Now Available!
You can register Online now or On-Site, Walkins are Welcome, or
click here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and mail it with payment!
Register before July 12th, 2022 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!
Veterinarians $450.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $250.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
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One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00! |
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Area Information
Things to Do near Elizabeth, Indiana
Churchill Downs
This beautiful racetrack has been the home of the Kentucky Derby since 1875.
Kentucky Derby Museum
The Kentucky Derby Museum, where every day is Derby day, is the official tour provider of historic Churchill Downs. When you visit the Museum, you will find yourself immersed in the next best thing to actually being at the Derby! As the exclusive tour provider for the track, various tours are offered throughout the year even when the track isn’t in session with live racing. General admission includes two levels of family-friendly interactive permanent & temporary exhibits, "The Greatest Race," a 360-degree immersive sound and visual experience that'll get your heart racing and emotions soaring, Historic Walking Tour of Churchill Downs Racetrack, access to the Gift Shop, Kentucky fare in the Derby Cafe Express and much more!
On-Site Registration is Now Available!
You can register Online now or On-Site, Walkins are Welcome, or
click here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and mail it with payment!
Register before July 12th, 2022 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!
Veterinarians $450.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $250.00 (before 7/12/2022) |
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One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00! |
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