The Best Veterinary Conferences for Continuing Education

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Veterinary Association Management

Continuing Education for the Veterinary Profession


 

Sun N Fun Veterinary Conference

Click Here to Download the Brochure with Registration Form

May 18 - 21, 2025

"A True Family Oriented Veterinary Experience" on the beach in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina"

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Oceanfront

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Aerial Pool View

"An oceanfront retreat in Myrtle Beach"

"Escape to a coastal hideaway on the northern end of Myrtle Beach. Here you’ll find everything ocean, from beachside dining to private cabanas at our sand-bottom pool. Perfect your swing with golf simulators at 78Fitness and unfold into a massage at Spa33. Take the boardwalk or shuttle to Currents Waterpark at our sister property. Tanger Outlets and Barefoot Landing are less than ten minutes away."


Speakers

Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, RH (AHG), FACVBM, Sponsored by Purple Moon Herbs and Studies

Amanda M. Shelby, BSc, RVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia)

 

Updated Exhibit Hall Hours

Sunday: Setup: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, Open: 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Monday: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm

Tuesday: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm

 

Lunch Sessions


On-Site Registration is Coming Soon!

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 May 15th, 2025 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!

Veterinarians $300.00 Paid By Check (before 5/15/2025)

Veterinarians $350.00 Paid By Credit Card (before 5/15/2025)

Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $200.00 (before 5/15/2025)

   

One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00!

 

Tentative Schedule

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Registration: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Exhibit Hall: Set Up: 8:00 AM - 12:00 pm, Open at 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm

 

Speaker

Time

Topic


See Topics

12:00PM - 1:30PM :

2:00PM - 3:00PM :

3:30PM - 4:30PM :

5:00PM - 6:30PM :


See Topics

12:00PM - 1:30PM :

2:00PM - 3:00PM :

3:30PM - 4:30PM :

5:00PM - 6:30PM :


12:00PM - 1:30PM

2:00PM - 3:00PM

3:30PM - 4:30PM

5:00PM - 6:30PM


 

 

Monday, May 19, 2025

Registration: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm

Exhibit Hall Hours: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm

 

Lunch Session

 

Speaker

Time

Topic


Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, RH (AHG), FACVBM, Sponsored by Purple Moon Herbs and Studies

8:30AM - 10:00AM

10:30AM - 11:30AM

1:00PM - 2:30PM

3:00PM - 4:00PM

Introduction to Veterinary Medical Herbalism (1.5 hr)

This lecture will go over the basics of medicinal herb use in western veterinary practices.  The concept of Evidence-based Medicine will be introduced.  We will discuss how herbs can be used in terms of physiology, treatment modalities, safety and interactions.  There will be cases presented.

"Simple" Herbal Extracts (2 hr)

An "Herbal Simple" is a single herb remedy, as opposed to a tincture that contains multiple herbs to treat an ailment. Herbal Simples address specific medical conditions effectively. In this talk, many easy to use Herbal Simples will be discussed along with their corresponding disorders.

Specific Herbal Formulas for Vague Conditions (2 hr)

This talk will cover herbal formulations that I have created to treat specific and nonspecific conditions, such as heart murmurs, elevated liver enzymes, allergies, urinary disorders and more. These formulas cover many symptoms of each condition treated, so multiple medications are not needed.


Amanda M. Shelby, BSc, RVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia)

See Topics

8:30 am - 10:00 am : ABCs of ECGs

This lecture reinforces an understanding of the ECG, recognizing normal and abnormal waveforms, causes and treatments.

  • Supplies required: internet access for live presentation is ideal
  • Target audience: introductory to advanced
  • Learning objectives:
    • Understand the value and limitations of ECG monitoring
    • Understand how to interpret normal and abnormal ECG waveforms
    • Using clinical examples, interpret waveforms confidently and identify causes and treatment options.

10:30 am - 11:30 am : Pulse Ox Shiz

This lecture fully details the pulse oximeter, its limitations especially when on 100% oxygen, and innovative advancements (PVI and PI) and their future potential application!

  • Target audience: introductory to advanced
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Understand the value and limitations of pulse oximetry
    • Understand how to optimize use of pulse oximetry in clinical practice
    • Learn new advancements for clinical practice with pulse oximetry technology.

1:00 pm - 2:30 pm : Reading the Waves of Capnography

This lecture understand the importance of monitoring capnography. Focus on interpreting abnormal waveforms, identifying their causes and implementing corrective measures.

  • Target audience: introductory to advanced
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Understand the importance of monitoring patients with capnography.
    • Understand the difference of mainstream and side-stream capnographs.
    • Become effective at identifying common normal and abnormal capnograph waveforms.

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm : What is Happening? Reading Between the Lines

This presentation uses images and videos of monitors and case examples of challenging/critical situations, designed to help audience hone their monitoring skills and identify situations and solutions for various 'real life' cases while being monitored under anesthesia--high level of audience engagement.

  • Supplies required: Internet accessibility required, uses Poll Everywhere
  • Target audience: intermediate to advanced
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Encourages critical thinking about clinical case presentations and ‘whole’ patient understanding to interpret what is happening and how to best approach resolving abnormalities in real case-based approach.
    • Expand on each monitoring devices limitations to create a ‘whole’ patient picture, requiring audience to think critically about the case before determining what is happening.
    • Reviews ECG, capnography, plethysmography and other waveform interpretation.

Sponsored by

See Topics

"


8:30AM - 10:00AM

10:30AM - 11:30AM

1:00PM - 2:30PM

3:00PM - 4:00PM


 

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Registration: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm

Exhibit Hall Hours: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm

 

Speaker

Time

Topic


Amanda M. Shelby, BSc, RVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia)

See Topics

8:30 am - 10:00 am : Stranger Things: Troubleshooting Machine Mishaps ___

This program outlines the components of the anesthetic machines, reviews breathing circuit selections and identifies common areas for leaks. Videos and images with “broken” machines and the participants will actively participate in resolving the leaks and identify the problems.

  • Require internet connection
  • Target audience: introductory to advanced
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Review anesthetic machine and breathing circuit components and each purpose they serve.
    • Interactive session hones audiences’ ability to recognize common mistakes associated with anesthetic equipment.
    • Identify and resolve equipment related mistakes; review how to apply ventilators.

10:30 am - 12:00 pm : Escape Room Anesthesia: Will Your Patient Survive?

Case base anesthetic work-ups, audience engagement in developing the anesthetic plan-requires internet connection to operate polling program, I present a case that requires surgery/anesthesia, audience selects what happens next---based on majority selection, determines if patient survives! I review which choices I would make and why.

  • Supplies required: internet access for live presentation ideal
  • Target audience: introductory to advanced (can be tailored to your audience)
  • Learning objectives:
    • Use critical thinking skills to identify real-life clinical case preparations for the peri-anesthetic period.
    • Interpretation of blood work, physical examination and history findings, monitoring vitals and waveforms to tailor discussion about case progression.
    • Learn how to interpret and distinguish between common arrythmia misunderstandings, emergency case peri-anesthetic and pain management

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm : Optimizing Survival: Anesthesia/Analgesia for C-Sections

This 1-hour presentation provides up-to-date anesthetic and analgesic recommendations for C-sections along with neonatal resuscitation techniques.

  • 1 hour virtual or live lecture, minimal interactions
  • Supplies need: internet connection for interactions
  • Target Audience: veterinary technicians, veterinarians, all skill levels
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Review anesthetic plans for C-sections
    • Review how to provide post-delivery support to newborns
    • Review newborn resuscitation techniques

2:30 pm - 4:00 pm : Vet Tech Tricks of the Trade

I presents tricks of the trade I have gathered over 15 years in veterinary specialty and emergency practice through observation or practical necessity. Random helpful hints that save time and improve quality of care or at least minimize staff frustrations! The focus of this lecture are tricks for anesthesia and some emergency practice situations. Captures a variety of skill level interest.

  • Target Audience: inclusive for all
  • Learning Objectives:
    • Review short cuts/time and cost savers used in clinical practice without compromising patient care!
    • Learn ways to leverage the whole team towards optimizing patient outcome.
    • Tricks and tips to recognize and prevent clinical base disasters! Keep the patient and professionals safe!

8:30AM - 10:00AM

10:30AM - 11:30AM

1:00PM - 2:30PM

3:00PM - 4:00PM


See Topics


8:30AM - 10:00AM

10:30AM - 11:30AM

1:00PM - 2:30PM

3:00PM - 4:00PM


Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Registration: 8:00 am - 11:00 am

 

Speaker

Times

Topic


8:30AM - 10:00AM

10:30AM - 11:30AM


 

Complimentary standard in-room wireless Internet

Room rates starting at $165.00 per night single or double occupancy excluding applicable room taxes and resort fees.

Special 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom condo prices are available at Royale Palms

Continental breakfast, breaks and two lunches on Monday and Tuesday


On-Site Registration is Coming Soon!

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 May 15th, 2025 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!

Veterinarians $300.00 Paid By Check (before 5/15/2025)

Veterinarians $350.00 Paid By Credit Card (before 5/15/2025)

Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $200.00 (before 5/15/2025)

   

One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00!

 

Over 20 hours of Outstanding CE Lectures with great speakers


Speaker Bios...

 


Laurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, RH (AHG), FACVBMLaurie Dohmen, VMD, MS, RH (AHG), FACVBM

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

Purple Moon Herbs and Studies



On-Site Registration is Coming Soon!

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 May 15th, 2025 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!

Veterinarians $300.00 Paid By Check (before 5/15/2025)

Veterinarians $350.00 Paid By Credit Card (before 5/15/2025)

Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $200.00 (before 5/15/2025)

   

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, DVMKatie 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, DVMValerie 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, DVMLynne 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

Running Paws Pet Hospital, McKinney, TXJenny 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

Running Paws Pet Hospital, McKinney, TXDr. 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, LATMargi 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, CABCSteve 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, DVMMelanie 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

Mercy Animal Hospital, Monroe, NCDrs. 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)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

Emerywood Veterinary Hospital, High Point, NCJ. 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

Veterinary Consultation Services, LLC 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.

the COVE, Suffolk, VADanielle 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.

Palmetto Vet Hospital, Ridgeland, SCRob 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.

Snyder Mfg., New Sharon, IARalph 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.

Central Veterinary Hospital, Knoxville, TNDr. 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.

Vet Assured, Unicoi, TNDr. 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

Charleston Veterinary Referral CenterKristin 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:

 

ServiceVet Technologies

ServiceVet Technologies - J-Ray Lasers and KEPE Shock Wave Therapy

 

Click here to download the 2024 Sun N Fun Veterinary Conference Exhibitor Contract

Conference Hotel Information

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Resort Pool

An oceanfront retreat in Myrtle Beach ...

The oceanfront Hilton Myrtle Beach has finished a complete refresh of the 387 spacious guestrooms, event space, dining outlets and pool experience. Our outdoor dining and pool spaces have been completely updated with a lively island-centric vibe at the Wet Whistle Pool Bar and elevated alfresco dining at Beachcombers, both complimenting the already popular ocean view dining in Café Amalfi. The Sand bottom pool with cabanas, offering ocean views from everywhere, provides the perfect beach vacation.

Situated on the Atlantic coast, our oceanfront resort is tucked away along the famous northern end of Myrtle Beach on Beach Club Drive. We are less than ten miles from local attractions like Barefoot Landing and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is just 12 miles away.

 

For Hotel Reservations:

Room rates of $165 + applicable taxes, and fees, guaranteed until April 1, 2024 and can be made by calling Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort at 843-497-1700 (Press 3 for Myrtle Beach Hilton and 4 for Royale Palms) mention reservation code SNF at Hilton/SNV at Royale Palms.

 

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Beachcomber

Beachcomber


Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Veranda Bar
Veranda Bar

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Wet Whistle

Wet Whistle

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Brewhouse

Brewhouse

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Brewhouse

Brewhouse

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - Double Room

Guestroom - Double Room

Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort - King Room

Guestroom - King Room


On-Site Registration is Coming Soon!

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 May 15th, 2025 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!

Veterinarians $300.00 Paid By Check (before 5/15/2025)

Veterinarians $350.00 Paid By Credit Card (before 5/15/2025)

Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $200.00 (before 5/15/2025)

   

One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00!

Area Information

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Once you have decided on staying Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, create unforgettable memories in this South Coast paradise, which offers:

  • 60 miles of wide, soft sandy beaches

  • Savory restaurants and family-friendly dining

  • Amusement and water parks

  • Live entertainment theaters and exciting nightlife

  • Thrilling water sports

  • The best golf courses in the south

  • Cultural activities and historic sites

  • Outlet malls, specialty boutiques, flea markets, and specialty stores

  • Freshwater, ocean and deep sea saltwater fishing

  • and so much more!

2016 Sun N Fun Veterinary Conference Beachside Bash

Photo Gallery of the Sun N Fun Veterinary Conference!


On-Site Registration is Coming Soon!

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 May 15th, 2025 to take advantage of the Early Registration Discount!

Veterinarians $300.00 Paid By Check (before 5/15/2025)

Veterinarians $350.00 Paid By Credit Card (before 5/15/2025)

Technician, Receptionists, Support Staff $200.00 (before 5/15/2025)

   

One (1) Day Registraion is now available for $225.00!

 

Each conference provides at least 20 hours of continuing education