News & Press

Kristina Palmer, RVT, VTS (Clinical Practice-Exotics)

Animal Care Hospital Supervisor
Companion Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery Service
Zoological Medicine and Surgery Service
UC Davis William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital
Davis, California, USA

Kristina started working in the field of veterinary medicine in 1983 in a small animal private practice and has been a Registered Veterinary Technician with the state of California since 1989. She started her career at the University of California at Davis, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in 1989. Over the years Kristina has worked primarily in the Companion Avian & Exotic Pet Medicine & Surgery and Zoological Medicine Services with a large variety of unique, zoo and companion exotic patients. Her main focus is nursing care and anesthesia for these companion exotic and zoo animals and teaching the many residents, veterinary students, and veterinary technicians that come through the service every year. Kristina’s special interest in exotic animals has allowed her to contribute to the field as an educator outside of the university. She has lectured at several national and international veterinary symposiums and has published articles and book chapters. Kristina is a founding member of the Academy of Veterinary Technicians in Clinical Practice-Exotics. The AVTCP is the ninth officially recognized veterinary technician specialty (VTS) and is modeled after the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP). Kristina looks forward to many more years in this field, teaching veterinary students, veterinary technicians and residents the skills required when working with these unique animals.

Flock to the AAV Annual Conference & Expo!

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 01:13:00 GMT

It's Time to Flock to the

AAV Annual Conference & Expo!

June 28 - July 1, 2024

Kansas City Marriott Downtown
Kansas City, Missouri USA

Special Keynote Address

AAV is pleased to welcome LoraKim Joyner, DVM, MPVM, MDiv as our Keynote Presenter speaking on Transformative Parrot Conservation!

Program Agenda

Take it to the Next Level with Hands-on Learning

Six Hands-on Workshops

These popular workshops typically sell out. Register early to secure your seat!

Clinical Techniques in Small Birds
Surgical Procedures of the Beak and Skull
Introduction to Basic Raptor Techniques
Essential Skills for the Avian Practitioner
Avian Orthopedics
Surgery of the Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, and Reproductive Systems

Students and technicians: Click here for opportunities for to volunteer as lab assistants and get paid!

Click below to view workshop descriptions.

HOW Descriptions

Over 25 Hours of Continuing Education Presented by Experts in the Field of Avian Veterinary Medicine

Three Concurrent Tracks of Cutting Edge Scientific Sessions and In-depth Masterclasses!

Track topics include: Clinical Practice, Hot Topics, Wildlife/Conservation, Fundamentals, plus a special track designed by Technicians, for Technicians.
Experience comprehensive learning through a day and a half of Masterclasses focused on clinically relevant topics!
Plus, explore resources by connecting with over 20 companies at the Expo!

Click below to view the preliminary agenda.

Program Agenda

Reserve Your Room!

Hotel & Reservations

There are two ways to reserve your room at our host hotel, the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. Attendees are eligible for our discounted group room rate of $187.00 per night, plus all applicable taxes.

1. Book Your Hotel Room Online by Clicking "Book Now" Below.

2. Call the Reservations Toll Free Phone Number: 1-888-236-2427

Note: Please reference the AAV Conference and Expo to receive the discounted group rate.

Need a Roommate? Check out our roommate finder tool here.

Book Now

We Can't Wait to See YOU in KC for the 45th Annual AAV Conference & Expo!

Kansas City has been deemed "America's Next Hot Destination" and we think you'll agree when you join us in KC for the 45th Annual AAV Conference & Expo!

Simply put, Kansas City is full of character and hidden gems for all ages and interests. With a beautiful new airport and new streetcar within walking distance of the hotel, you'll find downtown KC delightful with its thriving creative arts scene and robust craft brewing culture. It's no wonder that KC was selected to host the World Cup in 2026. Kansas City's location is easily accessible from most areas of the country and more affordable than many meeting destinations!

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Platinum

Gold

AAV Student News - March 2024

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 01:09:00 GMT

March 2024

An official publication of the Association of Avian Veterinarians

Note from the Student Committee

Dear AAV Students,

Happy March! We are in the home stretch of the school year and hope you are all doing well. We hope to see you in Kansas City, Missouri for the AAV Annual Conference & Expo from June 28 to July 1. Students get discounted prices for the conference itself, and for further discounts, you can apply to be an assistant for the hands-on workshops.

Congratulations to the winners of the Student Externship Scholarship! Scholarship funds will be awarded to Brianna Brown, Maryella Cohn, Rachel Corin, Noah Goldfarb, Lena Marker, Shelby Parks, Zoë Selby, and Jonathan Zziwa. Our scholarship recipients will be doing externships at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Stahl Exotic Animal Veterinary Services, Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana, Specialized Care for Avian and Exotics, Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, South Florida Wildlife Center, Medical Center for Birds, and Abu Mukasa Agro Tourism Center.

Congratulations, also, to the University of Pennsylvania AAV Student Chapter for winning the Student Chapter Programs Scholarship for the Special Species Symposium. This event will be held April 12-14 this year and is aimed at vet students.

Please contact the Student Committee (students@aav.org) if you would like to get involved with the AAV in any way or if you have any questions! Join the AAV Student Forum on Facebook to connect with other vet students interested in avian medicine, as well.

Sincerely,

Dr. Rachel Baden, Dr. Brynn McCleery, Dr. Miguel Saggese, and David Higson

AAV Student Committee Co-Chairs

students@aav.org

Calling All AAV Student Chapters!

Win a Pizza Party from AAV!

Introducing the first AAV student chapter video contest!

The AAV student committee wants to know which bird your student chapter thinks is the best. Prove to us why your chapter’s selected avian species is the best through a 2-5 minute video. The student chapter selected as the winner will receive a pizza party from AAV.

Video submissions are due by March 27, 2024 11:59pm EDT!

Student Educational Webinar Survey

Calling all AAV student members! The student committee wants your input on what student educational webinars you want scheduled for 2024. Please fill out the survey at the link below to cast your vote.

Deadline for voting is March 31st.

Survey

Student Externship Scholarships and Testimonials

Congratulations to AAV's 2024 externship scholarship recipients:

Brianna Brown, University of Pennsylvania
Jonathan Zziwa, College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Uganda
Lena Marker, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Germany
Noah Goldfarb, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine
Rachel Corin, Lincoln Memorial University
Shelby Parks, Louisiana State University
Zoe Selby, University of Georgia
Maryella Cohn, Louisiana State University

And congratulations to our Spring Student Chapter Sponsorship recipient - the University of Pennsylvania.

We look forward to hearing about your experiences!

Interested in applying for the AAV Externship Scholarship?

Next Application Deadline: January 31, 2025. Click button below to learn more.

Hands-on Workshop Assistant Opportunities for Students and Technicians

Six 4-hour hands-on workshops will be offered at the AAV Conference this summer to provide participants with hands-on learning to expand their clinical skills. As assistants, you will have the opportunity to assist some phenomenal veterinarians as they share their expertise with others. You will hear the instructions and observe the procedures being done. Often there are opportunities for you to try your hand at the procedures! Learn how you can apply to be an assistant, compensation, and full details at the link below.

Registration Now Open for the AAV Annual Conference & Expo!

Calling all avian veterinary enthusiasts! Come join the flock for the AAV’s 45th Annual Conference & Expo taking place from Friday, June 28 through Monday, July 1, 2024, in vibrant Kansas City, Missouri. At this event, hundreds of veterinary professionals interested in avian medicine will come together for cutting edge learning and networking opportunities. Click the button below to find out more about THE premier event for avian veterinary professionals along with information on how to register.

Practical Tip: Did You Know That Some Sedation Drugs Can Be Administered Intranasally?

The most common drugs given through this route to birds are butrophanol (an opioid), midazolam (a benzodiazepine), and flumazenil (the reversal agent for midazolam). Although intramuscular injection with these medications is a more common route of administration, there are multiple benefits of intranasal (IN) administration. Intranasal administration is easy and non-invasive, which owners may prefer. These drugs have high bioavailability and rapid onset of action when administered into the nose. By avoiding an injectable route of administration, the avian patient experiences less pain. Furthermore, IN drug administration avoids elevations in the muscle enzymes on the biochemistry panel that can result from IM injection. Although IN drug administration can be beneficial to many avian patients, downsides of this route include risk of incomplete drug delivery due to sneezing and more difficulty in species with feathered or narrowed nostrils.

Tip by: Dr. Brynn McCleery

More Tips

Student Member Spotlight: Brianna Brown

Get to know AAV member Brianna Brown, veterinary student at PennVet in Philadelphia, PA, USA.

We'd love to feature you in an upcoming spotlight - submit your photo and details here!

Avian Emergency and Critical Care ON-DEMAND

Now available ON-DEMAND for AAV members! Register today for this RACE-approved 1-hour course through the AAV Online Education Portal.

Webinar Description: As the field of veterinary medicine continues to advance and specialize, there is a growing demand for veterinarians and veterinary technicians with specific areas of expertise. This lecture will focus on enhancing participants' skills in assessing critically ill avian patients. Topics covered include initial triage and stabilization, establishing venous access, and how to place an intraosseous catheter and air sac cannula.

Learning Objectives:

Participants of this webinar can expect to gain knowledge on the following topics:
How to identify a bird in crisis
When and how to provide immediate supportive therapy
Common emergency presentations
Providing analgesia
IV catheter placement and fluid therapy

Visit the Student Committee Page

Get to know the AAV Student Membership Committee and learn how you can get involved!

Measuring the Level of Agreement for Lactate Measurements in Hispaniolan Amazon Parrots (Amazona ventralis) Among 2 Point-of-Care Analyzers and a Benchtop Analyzer

In Memoriam: Dr. Charles Greco

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 21:20:00 GMT

Charles (Charlie) was born in Brooklyn, NY. The family moved to East Northport in 1967. At 4 yrs. old, Charles asked if there was a doctor for animals - he knew that is what he wanted to do. Charles made his way through Eastern NM Univ. in Portales, NM, where he met his wife, Kathy (Schweppe). Graduating in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, he began a Master’s program at C.W. Post Univ. He paused schooling to marry Kathy in August,1988. Charles pursued his goal, graduating with Honors from Ross Univ. School of Veterinary Medicine, in January,1993.

After a brief position in Queens, Charles and Kathy moved to Austintown, OH. He worked at Animal Medical Care Center, then Austintown Veterinary Clinic. The couple welcomed the birth of their twin sons, Nicholas and Christopher in 1996. The family relocated back to LI, settling in Holbrook.

Charles purchased the Animal Medical Hospital of Centereach in 1998. His compassion and down to earth values for the well-being of the animals and their owners was bar none. He also owned and practiced at Pinewood Commons Veterinary Hospital in Ridge, from 2005 to 2016.

Several animals were brought home over the years, whether abandoned or to be put down. ‘The zoo’ grew-cats, dogs, iguanas, tortoises, snakes, birds and fish. Charles’ hobbies included breeding and selling snakes and koi. He also owned several German Shepherd’s (and other Shepherd breeds) over the years and enjoyed training with various groups.

While busy with his small and exotic animal practice, Charles felt the desire to assist defenseless animals and was a Suffolk Co. Peace Officer with the Suffolk Co. SPCA for several years. Charles also became the consulting veterinarian for the Suffolk County Police Dept. K9 unit. He loved those dogs, the officers, and the entire K9 family. He often quipped ‘Those are MY dogs, you know!’ and he cared for these dogs well over 20 years.

Freshwater bass fishing was his greatest joy. His favorite moments were fishing with the ‘legend’, Roland Martin, twice. His dear friend, Ralph, was his fishing buddy and they shared many memories and adventures, some quite hilarious. Fish on!

His love of the water also drove him to attain his ‘Captains’ license and he completed the US Coast Guard OUPV course and exam in 2022. ‘This is harder than veterinary school’ was his line every time he was charting a course on a map sprawled out on the dining room table.

A ’Celebration of Life’ and service is being planned soon. Donations in Charles’ memory can be made to the Long Island Buddhist Meditation Center, 5268 Sound Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901.

View Complete Obituary at: https://everloved.com/life-of/dr-charles-greco/obituary/

AAV members are welcome to read and share additional tributes here.

Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery - Dec 2023

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 19:25:00 GMT

An Official Publication of the Association of Avian Veterinarians

December 2023 | Vol 37-4 Available Online Now

FEATURED

ARTICLE

Parrot Dietary Habits and Consumption of Alternate Foodstuffs, page 297

If you have opted for the print journal, it should be arriving in your mailbox shortly.

Table of Contents

JOURNAL OF AVIAN MEDICINE AND SURGERY MASTHEAD

EDITORIAL

Another Year in the Books. . .and Plans for 2024

Mark A. Mitchell, Thomas N. Tully, and Michelle Hawkins

ORIGINAL STUDIES

Parrot Dietary Habits and Consumption of Alternate Foodstuffs
Elise V. Voltura, Donald J. Brightsmith, Juan Cornejo, Ian Tizard, Christopher A. Bailey, and J. Jill Heatley

Measuring the Level of Agreement for Lactate Measurements in Hispaniolan Amazon Parrots (Amazona ventralis) Among 2 Point-of-Care Analyzers and a Benchtop Analyzer
Alexandra K. Mason, Jordan Padlo, Mark A. Mitchell, J. Jill Heatley, and Thomas N. Tully Jr.

CLINICAL REPORTS

Multifocal Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Malayan Wreathed Hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus)
Maya L. Iyer, David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, Mariana Sosa-Higareda, Danielle K. Tarbert, Ehren McLarty, Alex Herman, and Charles E. Alex

Antemortem Diagnosis and Successful Long-term Management of Disseminated Intracoelomic Xanthogranulomatous Disease in an Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus)
Neta Ambar, Christoph Mans, and David J. Gasper

Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of a Renal Cyst Causing Unilateral Lameness in a Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
Hannah Attarian, Stephanie K. Lamb, and Anthony Pilny

BOOK REVIEW

Book Review

Mark A. Mitchell

SELECTED ABSTRACTS FROM THE LITERATURE

Thank You to Our Supporters

In Memoriam: Dr. Daryl "Sam" Backos

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 21:16:00 GMT

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Dr. Daryl “Sam” Backos who passed away on January 10, 2024. Sam was a dedicated bird veterinarian, boarded in avian medicine, and a long term member of the Association of Avian Veterinarians. He was active with the aviculture and pet bird community. He was a kind and empathetic person and dedicated to his work as an avian veterinarian. In his early years he worked for 6 years as a poultry pathologist before opening his exclusively avian practice “Backos Bird Clinic“ in 1986. He not only worked in a traditional veterinary office, he also traveled to quarantine stations throughout Dade County caring for imported birds. In addition, he took house calls and worked as a consultant to some of the largest breeding facilities in the United States. Sam loved to incorporate Chinese herbs in his practice and he was always willing to share his experiences and knowledge. He will be missed by all in the avian community.
Tribute by: Dr. Sharman Hoppes

I first met Sam in 1979 when I was working at Pet Farm. He had finished an internship in poultry medicine and wanted the opportunity to do necropsies on birds. Sam did a lot of avicultural work for years traveling all over the state of Florida. He had a funny logo of a walking parrot with the state of Florida over his shoulder. Ultimately, he settled in the Delray, Deerfield area of Florida where he operated Backos Bird clinic - an exclusively avian practice. Sam would always answer an emergency call - no matter the time of night. He was always willing to share records, experiences, knowledge. He was a sweet, goofy, guy. I will miss him.
Tribute by Dr. Susan Clubb

AAV members are welcome to read and share additional tributes here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Theresa Parrott

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 21:24:00 GMT

The veterinary profession in general and avian and exotic medicine in particular lost one of the great ones when Terri Parrot passed away. Terri was in Florida around the same time I was first setting up practice. After that, I know she spent years of her career as the veterinarian for Disney’s animals, especially the free-flying macaws. The Harrison’s join the rest of our community in offering our sincere condolences and wishing peace to Terri’s family..

Tribute by: Dr. Greg J. Harrison and the HBD team

AAV members are welcome to read and share additional tributes here.

In Memoriam: Louisa Jaskulski

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 21:23:00 GMT

Louisa Jaskulski was a vibrant member of our community who left a mark on everyone she met. She was a veterinary technician whose passion was birds, reptiles and the unique species that we exotics focused professionals all love. She stood out from the crowd, not only because of her spunky blue, green or other fun colored short hair she sported, but because she was so alive! She was excited, full of energy, and so friendly to everyone she met. You couldn't escape her enthusiasm as it would fill up the room she was in.

Due to her experience in our field as an exotics technician, Louisa became involved with various rescues and had a love for helping less fortunate birds. She frequently adopted special needs birds that required life long medications and special care. She took on those patients who others couldn't and not only provided them with the highest level of medical care, but she also showered them with love. She particularly did well with Amazon parrots and had a series of individuals that benefited from her personalized care.

One of the needy birds that came into her care was a Port Lincoln Parrot with ataxia and she didn’t hesitate when it was decided she needed to travel a state away to see Dr. Scott Echols for an MRI, where the bird was kindly diagnosed with “mush” for a cerebellum. Despite the diagnosis, Louisa supported the bird and kept her thriving, even till this day.

When I found out that Louisa was suffering from cardiac problems I initially was not too worried. In my mind Louisa would live forever. She seemed very young and as I previously mentioned, vibrant. Plus, her father had lived into his 100s so I expected the same of Louisa. She had done everything her doctors told her to in order to manage her problem and followed their rules diligently. So, when I got the news that she had passed, I was shocked and in disbelief. Louisa was not meant to pass, I thought.

However, in the time since she has left the earth, I have watched those who loved her come forward, showing the same care for her pets that she showed them as they all got divided up and went to the appropriate homes for each of them. All those who knew her were touched by her kind heart and lively personality. They were moved to help animals as she did. And at this point I realized my odd thought about Louisa living forever was not as odd a thought as it may seem at first glance. Because in reality she will live on forever due to her legacy of love for all animals in need.

Tribute by Dr. Stephanie Lamb

AAV members are welcome to read and share additional tributes here.

HB 211 What You Need to Know

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:27:00 GMT

Download PDF | ABC Action Alert

Questions? Contact AAV Legislative Committee

An Interview with AAV Member Dr. Mariah Lancaster, AVMA’s 2023-2024 Congressional Fellow

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 19:09:00 GMT

What is your current title and role?
Currently, I am the American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2023-2024 Congressional Fellow serving in the office of Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04). I serve as a scientific advisor, covering the interior and environment portfolio as well as animal welfare. This includes issues ranging from environmental contaminants and water quality to initiatives to reintroduce bison in tribal lands. In this role, I review legislation, draft bills, meet with constituents, and advise the Congresswoman on any relevant or related policy.

Could you talk about the path you took to get into this field?
I applied to veterinary school with the goal of working at the intersection of wildlife conservation and foreign policy. As an undergraduate, I volunteered with a raptor rehabilitator (Wingmasters) and developed a love for birds of prey. As a vet student, I was a work/study technician in the Tufts Wildlife Clinic and spent my summers rehabilitating wildlife in Guatemala and the Philippines. As a practicing veterinarian, I’ve treated wild birds from New England to Florida – and even on a service trip to Honduras. While veterinary medicine is critical to the welfare and well-being of both captive and wild avian species, I am acutely aware of the plight of wild birds around the world – victims of the black-market wildlife trade. Songbirds stuffed in paper towel tubes, parrots shoved in water bottles, eggs smuggled across borders. While I could treat wildlife as a clinician, I could not prevent these horrible fates. Ultimately, I felt I could have a larger impact as a wildlife advocate in the policy realm.

I spent five years working towards the AVMA Congressional Fellowship. I first applied in 2018, then determinedly applied again in 2019 while broadening my scope to additional fellowships. In 2020, as I finished my internship in wildlife and conservation medicine at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), I was selected as a Science and Technology Policy Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. I was placed in the executive branch, serving as a policy advisor within the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. I spent two years working with career civil servants who specialize in nature crimes – international wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, illicit mining, and crimes associated with fishing. In this role, I was able to oversee federal funding to organizations focused on the rescue and rehabilitation of live wildlife captured as evidence to such crimes. I traveled to the Republic of Congo and to Indonesia – meeting with law enforcement officials and park rangers who work to combat wildlife poachers and traffickers. I also saw how these efforts are in dire need of greater resources, including here at home. As my fellowship at the State Department drew to a close, I once again applied for the AVMA Congressional Fellowship and was thrilled to be selected.

How do you see this benefitting the profession, animals, and birds specifically?
In Congress, I can advance the interests of animals on a national and international scale. The Congresswoman is a co-chair of the International Conservation Caucus, a leader in advancing wildlife conservation around the globe. She’s a co-sponsor of bills that protect wild avian species such as the Federal Bird Safe Buildings Act of 2023 and the Bicameral Concurrent Resolution to Become Party to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. With Minnesota University within the district, the Minnesota Raptor Center is part of the Congresswoman’s constituency – it’s our job to advocate for their interests. While this fellowship lasts a year, I know I will take this experience and these priorities with me as I advance my career in policy.

Do you have any tips for other veterinarians seeking to get more involved in policy?
Much like medicine, public service is a calling, and we must answer it. We can start small, getting engaged locally. While working as an emergency veterinarian in 2018, I joined my town Democratic committee and served as an elected delegate to the state Democratic convention where I first met my Senators! I also joined the AAV legislative committee and my state-level veterinary medical association’s government relations and advocacy committee, reviewing state and federal legislation.

If you’re still in school, join student groups like SAVMA and engage with other policy minded folks through state level political groups. If you’re settled in practice, get to know your statehouse representatives and senators, go to their coffee hours, spend a day or two knocking doors for a local campaign. Politics can seem like an intimidating world, but there is absolutely nothing stopping veterinarians from getting involved.

The veterinary code of ethics calls us to “respect the law and also recognize a responsibility to seek changes to laws and regulations which are contrary to the best interests of the patient and public health.” Extrapolate that moral bond beyond the walls of your hospital, consider the world our patient, and veterinarians have lots of work to do.

A Great Week at VLC!

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 23:01:00 GMT

I was fortunate enough to visit Chicago last week with the AAV to attend the Veterinary Leadership Conference (VLC) put on by the AVMA.

Not only did I get the opportunity to get to know a couple of our members better, I also got to meet veterinarians from different parts of the country and varied branches of the veterinary profession.
I discovered that Jenn Riley, AAV legislative committee chair, who works tirelessly every day for our voiceless wildlife at the Blue Ridge Raptor Center and represents us on the House of Delegates (HOD), is also a fun-loving and fantastic karaoke singer. Jenn’s finger is on the literal pulse of the avian world around us and she is working hard to protect our patients and our careers.

I was also able to get to know our new Executive Director better, the inspiring doctor Elizabeth Mackey. For those of you who don’t already know her, she is one of the most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. She is full of vibrancy and life, and is a wealth of knowledge, guidance, and insight. I am confident that she will point our organization in the right direction moving forward.

Being a private practice owner, previous corporate practice medical director and in leadership with AAV, I felt I had a good grasp on what was going on in my professional circle. I was mistaken.

This meeting enlightened me as to how much I truly was unaware of and the huge influence and impact that AAV could and does have on the veterinary profession. As avian (and exotic) veterinarians we were shockingly underrepresented. Being present here with AAV showed me how important it is that we all get more involved and ensure we have a place at the table to help protect the lives of our patients, the wellbeing of our colleagues, and the direction of the greatest job in the world, veterinary medicine.

Aside from inspiring me to become more well-acquainted with our veterinary legislation system, I also was able to attend lectures that would be instrumental in the development of any rising leader in the field. I attended lectures on wellbeing, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome, which I struggle with every day. After hearing the statistics and evidence-based data I was able to see how common these issues are amongst our group, and how we can use science-based techniques to combat them. These lectures provided me with tools to help recharge my emotional batteries.

Not only did I learn how to help myself, I also learned valuable skills to effectively mentor and coach those under my tutelage, as well as my colleagues. I gained techniques and tips to help make me be a more engaging presenter. Like many of us, I’m not naturally an extrovert, it takes work to speak to others about the things we are passionate about, and I felt attending these sessions was just what I had been missing.

These lectures were refreshing and unlike any I had experienced from conferences I’ve previously attended. I would like to thank AAV for providing me with this invaluable experience that I can say has shed light on my purpose and may have a pivotal impact on my path moving forward. The importance of my presence, awareness, and voice to protect that which has given me so much, the profession of veterinary medicine. Continue to spread the light.
Happy chirps,
Salina Locke, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice), Cert AqV
AAV Education Committee Co-Chair

Top Ten Reasons to Be an AAV Member in 2024!

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 22:53:00 GMT

Top 10 Reasons to Be an AAV Member!

Your AAV Membership Demonstrates Your Commitment to the Field of Avian Medicine!

Here are our Top 10 Reasons to Be a

Member of AAV in 2024:

1. New this year! Live Quarterly Webinars - Free or low cost AAV webinars on hot topics - The first was held on January 27th for Avian Emergency and Critical Care with RACE Continuing Education credit! Now available ON-DEMAND!

2. Deep discounts on the AAV Annual Conference & Expo this summer in Kansas City, MO and our online AAV Avian Medicine Virtual Conference (there is still time to take the 2023 ON-DEMAND course)

3. Networking opportunities - Be part of our community of veterinarians, technicians, and students supporting one another through AAV's Member Facebook Group and in-person at the conference!

4. Subscription to our international scientific Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery

5. Education On-Demand through our AAV Online Education Portal featuring over 60 video courses available at your convenience!

6. Grow Your Client Base - Members are listed in our Find-a-Vet Directory to connect bird owners with our experienced members!

7. Publications Library - Over 50 printable handouts on avian medicine topics that you may provide to your clients along with consultation. More topics added each quarter!

8. Career Opportunities through our awesome AAV Career Center! Connecting highly skilled applicants with great employment opportunities.

9. Stay informed through our monthly newsletter and social media!

10. Leadership or volunteer opportunities - Get involved to get even more out of your membership!

And even more important - your membership dues support avian health, welfare, and conservation efforts! Together we are making a difference around the globe!

RENEW NOW

JOIN NOW

AAV is grateful for all of our members and we continue to grow and improve our member benefits year after year. Visit the Membership Benefits page for a quick glance at the full list of resources! Thank you for being part of the AAV!

Not Yet an AAV Member? Join Today at AAV.org!

JOIN NOW

Journal Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print - Dec 2023

Thu, 4 Jan 2024 18:41:00 GMT

An Official Publication of the Association of Avian Veterinarians

December 2023 | Vol 37-4

SELECTED ABSTRACTS AHEAD-OF-PRINT

The editors of the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery are pleased to offer this electronic publication of Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print. Our goal is to provide our readers with a preview of a few of the papers scheduled to appear in the next issue of the journal. Any final changes in the abstracts will be made at the time of print publication and will be reflected in the final electronic and print versions of the issue.

Members and Subscribers: For access to full articles of previous issues of the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery, please login here. In the coming weeks you may also access the full issue from which these abstracts were selected at the link above.

Non-members: Complete articles are available for purchase through BioOne. Please visit the following URL for details: https://bioone.org/journals/journal-of-avian-medicine-and-surgery.

Alexandra K. Mason, Jordan Padlo, Mark A. Mitchell, J. Jill Heatley, and Thomas N. Tully Jr.

Multifocal Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Malayan Wreathed Hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus)

Maya L. Iyer, David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, Mariana Sosa-Higareda, Danielle K. Tarbert, Ehren McLarty, Alex Herman, and Charles E. Alex

Antemortem Diagnosis and Successful Long-Term Management of Disseminated Intracoelomic Xanthogranulomatous Disease in an Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus)

Neta Ambar, Christoph Mans, and David J Gasper

Disclaimer: Articles appearing in this Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print section have been peer-reviewed and accepted for publication in this journal and posted online before print publication. Abstracts appearing here may contain statements, opinions, and information that have errors in facts, figures, or interpretation. Accordingly, the editors and authors and their respective employees are not responsible or liable for the use of any such inaccurate or misleading data, opinion or information contained in this section. Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print are available in PDF format only and may not be reproduced or reused for any unauthorized purpose without the express written consent of the Association of Avian Veterinarians.

Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print Archive

AAV Member Journal Access

Current AAV Members receive a digital subscription to the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery as a benefit of membership along with access to our Journal Archive through BioOne. Login to view past issues.

AAV Avian Emergency and Critical Care Webinar - Registration Open

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:37:00 GMT

AAV Avian Emergency and Critical Care Webinar

Saturday, January 27, 2024, 11:00 am EST

This program has been RACE approved for 1.0 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval.

About this Event:

As the field of veterinary medicine continues to advance and specialize, there is a growing demand for veterinarians and veterinary technicians with specific areas of expertise. This lecture will focus on enhancing participants' skills in assessing critically ill avian patients. Topics covered include initial triage and stabilization, establishing venous access, and how to place an intraosseous catheter and air sac cannula.

Learning Objectives:

Participants of this webinar can expect to gain knowledge on the following topics:

How to identify a bird in crisis
When and how to provide immediate supportive therapy
Common emergency presentations
Providing analgesia
IV catheter placement and fluid therapy

Presenter:

Kristina Palmer, RVT, VTS (Clinical Practice-Exotics)

Who May Register?

This webinar is open to veterinarians, technicians, and veterinary students

Registration Fee:

AAV member: $25

Non-member: $55

Kristina Palmer, RVT, VTS (Clinical Practice-Exotics)

Webinar Recording: What You Need to Know About Birds and the Animal Welfare Act

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:33:00 GMT

In case you missed our webinar on "What You Need to Know About Birds and the Animal Welfare Act" - check out the recording and Q&A Transcript along with other great USDA resources at http://www.aav.org/usda.

VIEW RECORDING

The Cantabrian capercaillie: a critically endangered species from Northern Spain

Tue, 5 Dec 2023 20:11:00 GMT

"It is our duty, as human beings, to conserve all living creatures that coexist with man, otherwise we will have failed as a species"
Dr Félix Rodríquez de la Fuente

Introduction and taxonomy

The capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) is a Palearctic species of the Phasianidae family and the largest grouse in the world inhabiting from southwestern Europe to eastern Siberia. In Spain, there are two subspecies, Tetrao urogallus cantabricus (Castroviejo, 1967), in the Cantabrian mountains in the west, and Tetrao urogallus aquitanicus (Ingram, 1915), in the Pyrenees to the east. Its range covers an area of 2,000 km² in the Cantabrian Mountain range and some 5,700 km² in the Pyrenees, in mountain areas with mature, heterogeneous and diverse forests. Although some genetic studies have supported its validity of two separate subspecies, others have suggested that the Cantabrian and Pyrenean populations belong to the same evolutionary branch.

Conservation status

Both subspecies have shown severe population declines in the past 25 years, especially the Cantabrian population. The capercaillie, as a species, is considered to have a status of “Least Concern Red List Threat” for Europe. However, the Cantabrian population conservation status is considered as “Endangered” by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In 2018, the Cantabrian capercaillie was declared “Critically Endangered” by the Spanish Government.

Distribution

The Cantabrian capercaillie once ranged the length of the Cantabrian Mountains from northern Portugal, through Galicia, Asturias, and León, to Cantabria in northern Spain. Currently, the Cantabrian capercaillie is present almost exclusively in the autonomous regions of Asturias and Castilla and Leon. The natural range has since contracted to the mountains in northwest Spain. In Cantabria and Galicia, there are sporadic sightings, which must survive hidden in the traditional territories of these Autonomous Communities. At present, the range of the Cantabrian capercaillie is divided into two areas, East and West, separated by a large area with low population and confined to the northern slopes of the mountains. It has been estimated that currently only 191 (165–222) capercaillie individuals remain in the whole of the Cantabrian Mountains.

Description

The capercaillie cock typically range from 74 to 85 cm in length, with a wingspan of 90 to 125 cm and an average weight of 4.1 kg. The body feathers are dark grey to dark brown, while the breast feathers are dark metallic green. The belly and undertail coverts vary from black to white. It has a long, rounded tail, an ivory-white bill, and a scarlet crest. There is a bright red spot of naked skin above each eye (Fig. 1). The hen ranges from 54 to 64 cm in length, with a wingspan of 70 cm, and an average weight of 1.8 kg. Feathers on the upper parts are brown with black and silver barring; on the underside they are lighter and more yellow-beige in colour (Fig. 2). Both sexes have a white round spot on the shoulder. They have feathered legs, especially in the cold season, for protection against cold. Their toe rows of small, elongated horn tacks provide a snowshoe effect.

Fig. 1.- Male Cantabrian capercaillie showing the dark grey and green plumage in striking contrast with the snow (photo by Edgar Madrenys).

Fig. 2. – Female Cantabrian capercaillie. The females are half the size of males and with a heavily barred brown on beige plumage (photo by Edgar Madrenys).

Breeding

At the beginning of spring, male capercaillies use a lek system to attract females (cantaderos in Spanish). Males fan their tails, puff their chests out, and make whistling and clicking sounds in a bid to entice a female (Fig. 3). This is the typical call of the capercaillie (canto in Spanish). The females watch from a perch before flying down to their chosen mate. About three days after copulation the hen begins laying eggs. The average clutch size is eight eggs but may go up to 12, rarely only four or five eggs. Incubation period is between 26–28 days dependent on weather conditions.

Fig. 3.- A male Cantabrian capercaillie displaying and calling to attract the females to the lek (photo by Edgar Madrenys).

Feeding

The Cantabrian capercaillie feeds in deciduous woodlands, specifically mature beech forests and mixed forests of beech and oaks, at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,800 mt. The capercaillie also uses other microhabitat types such as broom, meadow and heath selectively throughout the year. It feeds on beech buds, birch catkins, holly leaves, and bilberry.

Conservation threats

Numerous limiting factors influence the population dynamics of the capercaillie throughout its range, including habitat degradation, loss, and fragmentation. Forest structure plays an important role in determining habitat suitability and occupancy. Open forest structure with well-distributed bilberry shrubs were the preferred habitat type of Cantabrian capercaillie. Management of forest resources for timber production has caused and continues to cause significant changes in forest structure such as species composition, density and height of trees, forest patch size, and understory vegetation.
Currently hunting of the Cantabrian capercaillie is illegal in Spain, however, illegal hunting still occurs. Due to this, individuals congregating in leks are particularly easy targets. It is unknown what the incidence of poaching is or what impact it is having on this subspecies. However, given the limited number of birds remaining and the reduced genetic variability already evident at current population levels, the further loss of breeding adults could have substantial impact on the subspecies.

Fundación Urogallo Cantábrico

The Fundación Urogallo Cantábrico was created in 2022 as an initiative of biologists, conservationists, veterinarians, and scientists from the city of León, Spain to preserve and propagate the Cantabrian capercaillie. The Fundación has proposed the Strategy for the Conservation and Recovery of the Capercaillie under four clearly differentiated aspects, the establishment of a Visitor Center, the construction of a Captive Breeding Complex, the design and implementation of a Field Reintroduction Program, and the creation of an Information and Public Awareness Campaign.

The Fundación is unique in Castilla and León as it brings together interested professionals working in private sectors and universities. The Visitor Center would act as a focal point for visitors and students to obtain information through videos, and through interactive and pedagogic displays on the biology of the Cantabrian capercaillie as a species, the precarious conservation status, and the efforts made by the Fundación to protect it.

The creation of a Captive Breeding Complex and the production of captive breeding stock would act as a genetic reservoir with the greatest possible genetic diversity, in order to produce suitable individuals for reintroduction programs into protected areas of the Cantabrian Mountain Range. The Breeding Complex will house specimens mainly from stock that currently exists in captivity and through the partial removal of clutches and the incubation of the eggs obtained from the wild.

The Captive Breeding Complex would also serve as a center of excellence for the veterinary care of capercaillie including the design and implementation of a comprehensive preventive medicine program, with clinical diagnostic and therapeutic protocols, and the creation of a database of publications of the capercaillie in health and disease.

The Fundación intends to promote public awareness of the conservation status of the Cantabrian capercaillie and the effort made by the local and regional governments to protect and propagate this Cantabrian capercaillie as an integral part of the natural patrimony to present and future generations through intensive campaigns using presentations, poster displays in schools, universities, and government institutions, and press releases using social media, and local, regional, and national press.

References

International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). 1979. Cantabrian capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus). Compiled by W.B. King on behalf of the International Council for Bird Preservation and the Survival Service Commission of IUCN, 1110 Morges, Switzerland.
Martínez, A. 1993. Contribución al conocimiento de la ecoetología del urogallo cantábrico (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus). León University, Spain.
Ministry of Environment of Spain. 2005. Orden MAM/2231/2005, de 27 de junio, por la que se incluyen en el Catálogo Nacional de Especies Amenazadas las especies Astragalus nitidifloru y el Lagarto gigante de La Gomera y cambian de categoría el urogallo cantábrico y el Visón europeo. (BOE nº 165, de 12 de julio de 2005)
Obeso J R, et al, 2000. Intestinal parasites in the Cantabrian capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus); A coprological study. Ardeola 47(2), 2000, 191-195
Pollo, C.J. 2001. El urogallo cantábrico: situación actual y actuaciones de futuro. Medio Ambiente en Castilla y León, 16: 14-26.
Pollo, C.J., L. Robles, J.M. Seijas, Á. García-Miranda, and R. Otero. 2005. Trends in the abundance of Cantabrian Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus cantabricus at leks on the southern slope of the Cantabrian Mountains, north-west Spain. Bird Conservation International 15:397–409.
Quevedo, M., M.J. Bañuelos, and J.R. Obeso. 2005. The decline of Cantabrian capercaillie: How much does habitat configuration matter? Biological Conservation 27(2): 190–200.
Quevedo, M., J.M. Bañuelos, O. Sáez, and J.R. Obeso. 2006. Habitat selection by Cantabrian capercaillie Tetrao urogallus cantabricus at the edge of the species’ distribution. Wildlife Biology 12(3): 267–276.
Garcia-Rodriguez A, et al. 2023. Mortality Causes in Captive Cantabrian capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus) in Spain. Animals (Basel). 2023 Apr; 13(7): 1255.
Storch, I., M.J. Bañuelos, A. Fernández-Gil, J.R. Obeso, M. Quevedo and R. Rodríquez-Muñoz. 2006. Subspecies Cantabrian capercaillie Tetrao Urogallus cantabricus endangered according to IUCN criteria. Journal of Ornithology 147:653–655.
Suárez-Seonae, S. and P. García-Rovés. 2004. Do disturbances in surrounding areas affect a core population of Cantabrian Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus cantabricus? The case of the natural reserve of Muniellos (Asturias, NW Spain). Ardeola 51(2): 395–409

Save the Dates: June 28-July 1, 2024

Mon, 4 Dec 2023 20:45:00 GMT

Save the Dates:

June 28-July 1, 2024

June 28 - July 1, 2024

Kansas City Marriott Downtown
Kansas City, Missouri USA

We Can't Wait to See YOU in KC for the 45th Annual AAV Conference & Expo!

Kansas City has been deemed "America's Next Hot Destination" and we think you'll agree when you join us in KC for the 45th Annual AAV Conference & Expo!

Simply put, Kansas City is full of character and hidden gems for all ages and interests. Check out Visit KC’s list of 33 free things to do in Kansas City.

With a beautiful new airport and new streetcar within walking distance of the hotel, you'll find downtown KC delightful with its thriving creative arts scene and robust craft brewing culture. It's no wonder that KC was selected to host the World Cup in 2026. Kansas City's location is easily accessible from most areas of the country and more affordable than many meeting destinations!

Flock to KC for Cutting Edge Avian Education!

AAV is pleased to welcome LoraKim Joyner, DVM, MPVM, MDiv as our Keynote Presenter speaking on Transformative Parrot Conservation!

The full program will be announced soon!

The conference will include a combination of Lectures, Masterclasses, Hands-On Workshops, and Posters.

Preliminary Topics:

Aviculture, Behavior, Case Studies, Clinical, Cytology/Pathology, Diagnostics, Disease Syndromes, Epidemiology, Poultry, Preventative Medicine/Nutrition, Research, Therapeutics, Welfare, Wildlife/Conservation, Technician, Fundamentals

Not only will you receive more than 25 hours of continuing education presented by experts in the field of avian veterinary medicine, you will also:

Have time to meet with colleagues and friends for great networking opportunities
Learn how you can make a difference in avian medicine, conservation, and welfare by getting more involved in the AAV community
Explore resources by connecting with companies at the Expo!

Click button below to view the preliminary agenda.

Program Agenda

Registration Opening February 2024!

Hotel & Reservations

1. Book Your Hotel Room Online by Clicking "Book Now" Below.

2. Call the Reservations Toll Free Phone Number: 1-888-236-2427

Note: Please reference the AAV Conference and Expo to receive the discounted group rate.

Book Now

Thank You to Our Sponsors

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Gold

Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery - Sept 2023

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 18:38:00 GMT

An Official Publication of the Association of Avian Veterinarians

September 2023 | Vol 37-3 Available Online Now

FEATURED

ARTICLE

Evaluation of Thermal Antinociceptive Effects of Intramuscular Hydromorphone Hydrochloride in Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginianus), page 209

If you have opted for the print journal, it should be arriving in your mailbox shortly.

Table of Contents

JOURNAL OF AVIAN MEDICINE AND SURGERY MASTHEAD

EDITORIAL

ORIGINAL STUDIES

Effects of Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin on Blood Lipids in Quaker Parrots (Myiopsitta monachus)

Hugues Beaufrère, Trinita Barboza, Alysha Burnett, Ken D. Stark, and R. Darren Wood

Evaluation of Thermal Antinociceptive Effects of Intramuscular Hydromorphone Hydrochloride in Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginianus)

Marissa Rae Monopoli, David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, Joanne Paul-Murphy, Hugues Beaufrère, and Michelle G. Hawkins

The Effects of Critical Care Nutrition on Weight Gain in African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus) Chicks

Fiona Froehlich, Neil Forbes, Daniel Calvo Carrasco, Katta Ludynia, Nola J. Parsons, Rebekah Dutton Worsfold, and Tom Dutton

Four Different Surgical Approaches to Vasectomies in Male Texas Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus texanus) and Northern Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus)

Stephanie K. Lamb, Glenn H. Olsen, and Anthony Pilny

Retrospective Study of Intertarsal Joint Inﬂammation in Avian Species From a Zoological Institution

Antoine Leclerc, Nicolas Goddard, Océane Graillot, Alice Brunet, and Baptiste Mulot

Survey of the Clinical, Cytological, and Histopathological Features Associated with Neoplasms in Captive Avian Species in Melbourne, Australia

Michelle Sutherland, Kathy Luk, Natalie Courtman, and Richard Ploeg

Inﬂuence of Freezing Temperature, Freezing Duration, and Repeated Freeze/Thaw Cycles on Electrophoretic Proﬁles in the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia)

Milan Thorel, Yannick Roman, and Antoine Leclerc

CLINICAL REPORTS

Correction of a Hyperﬂexed Hallux in a Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug) by Hemisectioning the Deep Digital Flexor Tendon

Raj Raghav, Vishnunarayanan Narayanannair, and Jaime Samour

Diagnosis and Long-Term Treatment of Suspected Congenital Hypothyroidism in a Pigeon (Columba livia domestica)

Nicola Di Girolamo, Kelsea Studer, João Brandão, Ian Kanda, Robert A. Wagner, Federico Fracassi, and Kellie Fecteau

SELECTED ABSTRACTS FROM THE LITERATURE

Thank You to Our Supporters

Register Today for AAV Avian Medicine Virtual 2023 ON-DEMAND

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:50:00 GMT

Register Today for

AAV Avian Medicine Virtual 2023 ON-DEMAND

Join us for 8 hours of online learning that will bring you the latest developments in avian medicine. Through this conference we hope to bring you an outstanding learning experience from the comfort of your home! Take a look at the program and supplemental material below!

Supplemental Material Included:

AAV Avian Medicine Virtual 2023 Conference Proceedings (downloadable pdf)
Recording of the Live Q&A with the presenters from the Live Event held on November 4, 2023.
Q&A Transcript with audience questions and presenter answers from the Live Event.
A downloadable Neuro Exam Form shared by Dr. Lauren Powers

Continuing Education Credit:

This program has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval.

Duration:

8.0 Hours (Does not have to be completed in a single session - view at your convenience.) Each session below is 1-hour in length. Viewing conference in full is required to receive RACE credit. Partial credit will NOT be offered.

Quiz Requirement:

Registrant must pass a 5-question quiz per chapter with 80% score or higher to receive certificate.

Registration Fees

ON DEMAND Registration Fees:

Member Veterinarian: $225
Member Intern/Resident/Grad Student: $225
Member Student: $145
Member Technician: $145
Member Veterinarian from a Developing Nation: $20
Non-member Veterinarian/Technician/Student: $425

No early bird discounts are available for the on demand course.

Registration is NOW OPEN! Enroll today!

AAV members: Please login prior to enrollment to ensure you receive discounted member rates.

REGISTER NOW

Not an AAV Member?

Please Read Prior to Enrolling

Option 1: Join AAV and SAVE! (recommended)

Join AAV prior to enrolling to receive full member benefits and discounted enrollment in this course by clicking the Join AAV button below.

JOIN AAV

Option 2: Proceed to Enrollment

A Non-member Learner account is required to access your course and classroom upon enrollment. Click Create Account below to select user name and password.

CREATE ACCOUNT

Program

The Geriatric Chicken

Presented by: Susan Orosz, PhD, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice), DipECZM (Avian)

Poultry are becoming more commonplace as patients in veterinary hospitals as the numbers of backyard flocks rise. There are a number of medical conditions that drive owners to seek veterinary care. These include pendulous crop, hemorrhagic liver syndrome, musculoskeletal problems including osteoporosis and bumblefoot, Marek’s disease and other viral induced neoplastic diseases, heart failure and reproductive problems. These conditions will be discussed in this lecture.

Avian Mycobacteriosis: From Individual to Flock Management

Presented by: Shangzhe Xie, BSc/BVMS, MVS, PhD, DABVP (Avian Practice), DACCM

Avian mycobacteriosis is a disease caused by bacteria from the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). This session will review routes through which birds get infected, physical exam findings, diagnosis, treatment, the ethics of treatment, and prevention.

Liver Disease in Psittacine Birds

Presented by: Stephen Fronefield, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

Diagnosing significant liver disease in a bird is not terribly difficult; however, determining the cause of that liver disease can be challenging. The clinician uses a collection of evidence to help make a tentative diagnosis. The signalment, plane of nutrition, proximity to other birds, reproductive history, place of origin, patient’s illness history, physical exam, response to treatment, and a collection of diagnostic tests are used to come up with a likely cause of liver disease. One disease does not necessarily eliminate others from being a player in the patient’s disease. This presentation will use case reports to help work through commonly presented conditions.

Self-mutilating Birds - They Really Eat at You...

Presented by: Yvonne van Zeeland, DVM, MVR, PhD, DipECZM (Avian), DipECZM (Small Mammal), CPBC

In practice, many psittacine birds are presented with self-injurious behaviours, whereby the bird mutilates the skin (and feathers) of specific body parts such as the neck, back, tail, ventral wing surface, feet or legs. In many cases, a thorough history, physical examination and additional work-up will reveal an underlying medical issue as the cause of the condition. This masterclass will provide an overview of the (more common) underlying etiologies, as well as guidelines to diagnose and treat these conditions, thereby equipping veterinarians with a helpful toolkit to deal with these challenging cases in their daily practice.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

Presented by: Stephanie Lamb, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice) and Brynn McCleery, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

Part I: Avian influenza: Practical Ways to Protect the Backyard Flock & Aviaries
This session will briefly review the origin of the current high pathogenicity avian influenza outbreak and its significance to wildlife, poultry, and humans. The difference between low and high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses will be reviewed including discussion of natural hosts, aberrant hosts, transmission, and clinical signs. The focus of the session will be on precautions to take for backyard poultry and outdoor aviary birds to help prevent infection with HPAI.

Part II: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in the California Condor Population
Highly pathogenic avian influenza, H5N1, was identified in the wild California Condor population in Northern Arizona in March 2023. During the outbreak 8 birds were presented to a wildlife rehabilitation center, Liberty Wildlife, for care. Of these cases, 6 received general supportive care consisting of fluids, meloxicam, and vitamin B complex. Additionally, 2 birds received antibiotic support and one was chelated with CaEDTA. Four of the birds also received Tamiflu (oseltamivir) while in care. Four of the 8 birds survived and 4 died. Of those that survived, 3 were released approximately 3.5 months after their entry into captivity. This session discusses the details of supportive care, testing and outcomes for the 8 birds undergoing treatment while in captivity.

Seizures in Parrots

Presented by: Lauren V. Powers, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

Seizures are not uncommon in companion psittacine birds presented for veterinary care and are one of the most common neurologic disorders seen in pet birds. A number of intracranial and extracranial diseases are associated with seizures and a definitive premortem diagnosis can be challenging at best for many of these diseases. Advanced imaging is often the most useful modality to evaluate a bird for intracranial disease that may be associated with seizures. Successful management of acute seizure disorders and idiopathic epilepsy can be difficult to achieve in birds but most often includes treatment with anticonvulsant drugs.

Common Radiographic Abnormalities in Captive Birds

Presented by: E. Marie Rush, DVM, Dipl ACZM

Radiographs are a readily available and non-invasive method of diagnosis of pathology in the major organ systems of birds. This modality is available in most veterinary clinics, requires gentle restraint, sedation or light anesthesia, minimal required time under sedation, and allows identification and measurement of structures when properly positioned. Identification of some of the most common pathological conditions in captive avian species can be diagnosed with baseline radiographs. Radiographs may also be a recommended part of annual diagnostics, as well as in birds presenting clinically abnormal.

Lead Poisoning in Wildlife

Presented by: Jennifer Riley, DVM

Lead poisoning is an extremely common condition seen in wildlife admitted to rehabilitation facilities in the United States. This lecture will discuss lead as a One Health issue, emphasizing how it affects wild birds and humans. Causes, diagnosis, and treatment will be highlighted as well as reasons lead continues to be used and ways to advocate for change.

Technician Appreciation Week Highlights

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 20:19:00 GMT

Hello technician members!

Let me start by announcing that our technician track this year at ExoticsCon was a resounding success, with standing room only, and was truly exceptional. Many thanks to Christina Miller for all of her hard work organizing, moderating and presenting at this year’s conference.

I’d like to take a moment to offer a brief update on the subjects that were covered during this year’s technician forum at ExoticsCon. Those in attendance discussed a number of topics ranging from what resources are available to technicians to learn about avian medicine to more advance topics such as how to run a code on a bird. But mostly, what do technicians want to learn about avian medicine and what can AAV do to help?

During our meeting we determined that all of us are deeply committed to advancing the knowledge and skills of our technicians in the field of avian medicine. We believe that fostering expertise in avian medicine not only enhances the quality of care we provide to our feathered patients but also strengthens veterinary team's capabilities. We understand the importance of staying at the forefront of this specialized field, and we are dedicated to supporting our technicians every step of the way in their journey to become experts in avian healthcare.

We are excited to announce that we plan to host a series of Zoom meetings this year and our goal is to establish this as an ongoing event for all technicians. This is scheduled to start sometime after the first of the year. Some of the topics will include emergency and critical care, how to collect quality diagnostic samples including radiographs, how to perform a physical exam, and many more.

We want to express our sincere gratitude for your continued support as a valued member of our AAV community. Your membership means a lot to us, and as a token of our appreciation, we're excited to offer you an exclusive 10% discount on your membership if you renew by October 31st. Simply use the promo code '24TECHMEM' during checkout to enjoy this special member's discount. It's our way of saying thank you for your loyalty and commitment to the health and wellbeing of our feathered friends. Thank you again for being a part of our family!

And lastly, we warmly invite you to join us this year, June 28-July 1, 2024, in Kansas City, MO, for the AAV Annual Conference & Expo. Once again, we'll be featuring an exciting and comprehensive technician track that promises to be both informative and engaging. If you are interested in presenting, please submit an abstract through the Call for Proposals by the November 1 deadline.

Kristina Palmer, RVT, VTS (Clinical Practice-Exotics)

AAV Technician Committee Co-chair

Join Us for the AAV Avian Medicine Virtual Conference

This program has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval.

Join us for this full day of online learning that will bring you the latest developments in avian medicine. Through this conference we hope to bring you an outstanding learning experience from the comfort of your home! Take a look at the Preliminary Program by clicking Learn More below!

Technician registration:

$95 Early Bird ends Oct 16th!
$120 Regular rate ends Nov 1st

Have You Visited the AAV Technician Center?

Veterinary technician members have access to a wealth of educational resources on AAV.org. The AAV Technician Center highlights key resources for techs as well as the latest news and opportunities. Curated selections from AAV's Online Education Portal and Golden Egg can be found here as well as quick links to RACE-approved educational material, Bird-friendly Practice tools, networking links, client education handouts, and more! Visit the Technician Center today! Be sure to check out the Technician Committee page to get to know your Technician Committee Co-chairs and drop us a note while you are there!

View Now

In Honor of Our Technicians, the AAV is Offering 10% Off Technician Memberships Through October 31st

As veterinarians, we could not do our jobs without our amazing veterinary technicians and nurses. The AAV is grateful for all of our technician members so we're celebrating Veterinary Technician Week all month with 10% off new and renewing technician memberships! New members will receive October - December 2023 included with a 2024 membership.

Enter promo code at checkout: 24TECHMEM

Hey Veterinarians...

Consider sponsoring your technicians' memberships. This investment will come back to you in so many ways. Having a technician with specialized avian knowledge at your side is an invaluable part of a successful practice.

Renew/Join

Technician Video Tips

Our technician members have been sharing some great video tips! Let's continue to grow this collection! Submit a video demonstrating a tip or trick you use when working with your avian patients for a chance to have your video shared on AAV's Technician Tips page and on our social media. The tips and tricks can be simple or complex--anything that makes things go more smoothly when working with your avian patients!

Email pubs@aav.org if you have a video you'd like to share!

View Now

On Demand RACE CE for Technicians!

If you are looking for CE, check out the Avian Veterinary Technician Toolbox on the AAV Online Education Portal. This course covers topics including:

Introduction to Basic Raptor Techniques
Decreasing Stress Before, During and After the Veterinary Visit
Maximizing the Healing Power of Exotic Animal Nursing
Avian Emergency Triage and the Role of the Veterinary Technician
Troubleshooting the Poor Recovery: The Exotic Patient
Parrots and Children: Expanding the Flock

This course is available to current members for just $35 to cover RACE processing fees.

AAV Committee Spotlight: Technicians

Get to know your AAV Technician Committee! This is a great time to join the committee as we are beginning new projects for the year ahead. Visit the committee page to learn more and contact the chairs to get involved!

Member Spotlight:

Kristina Palmer

Get to know AAV member Kristina Palmer, RVT, VTS (Clinical Practice-Exotics), Animal Care Hospital Supervisor, UC Davis William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, in Davis, California, USA .

We'd love to feature you in an upcoming spotlight - submit your photo and details here!

https://doi.org/10.1647/21-00076

Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery - June 2023

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:52:00 GMT

An Official Publication of the Association of Avian Veterinarians

June 2023 | Vol 37-2 Available Online Now

FEATURED

ARTICLE

Determination of Coagulation Parameters by Whole Blood Dynamic Viscoelastic Coagulometry in Strigiformes, page 99

If you have opted for the print journal, it should be arriving in your mailbox shortly.

Table of Contents

JOURNAL OF AVIAN MEDICINE AND SURGERY MASTHEAD

PUBLISHER'S STATEMENT

ORIGINAL STUDIES

Determination of Coagulation Parameters by Whole Blood Dynamic Viscoelastic Coagulometry in Strigiformes
Lydie-Amy Leclerc, Claire Vergneau-Grosset, Guy Fitzgerald, João Brandão, and Carolyn Gara-Boivin

Use of Digital Stethoscope to Measure Heart Rate in Birds: Comparison of Different Counting Methods Using Phonocardiograms
Ciro Cococcetta, Thomas Coutant, Sophie Bagur, Morena Bernadette Wernick, and Minh Huynh

Snakebite Envenoming in Avian Species: A Systematic Scoping Review and Practitioner Experience Survey
Charles O. Cummings and Jessica M. Eisenbarth

Radiographic Measurements of Internal Organs in Rhode Island Red Hybrid Hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) and Their Evolution During Egg Formation
Thomas Coutant, Ciro Cococcetta, Albert Phouratsamay, Chloé Touzet, Graham Zoller, and Minh Huynh

Outcomes and Complications Associated With Caudal Thoracic and Abdominal Air Sac Cannulation in 68 Birds
Dominic Byron-Chance, Lucía Gomez, Ashton Jade Hollwarth, and Thomas Anthony George Dutton

Effect of Hooding on Physiological Parameters During Manual Restraint in Rhode Island Red Hybrid Hens (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Ciro Cococcetta, Thomas Coutant, Albert Phouratsamay, Graham Zoller, Sophie Bagur, and Minh Huynh

Retrospective Analysis of Pelvic Limb Fracture Management in Companion Psittacine Birds (60 Cases)
Ashton J. Hollwarth and Thomas A. G. Dutton

CLINICAL REPORTS

Successful Treatment of a Cervical Injury and Myopathy Using Integrative Medicine Techniques in an Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus) Following Cervical Entrapment
Lorrie K. Hale Mitchell, Ronald B. Koh, and Javier G. Nevarez

Palliative Radiation Therapy for Treatment of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma in a Double Yellow-headed Amazon Parrot (Amazona oratrix)
Anna Watson, Sara Gardhouse, Kara Hiebert, Timothy Walsh, Chieko Azuma, and Samuel Hocker

Partial Amputation of a Nonreducing Prolapsed Phallus in an Ostrich (Struthio camelus)
Heloísa C. Lima, Arthur C. T. Alves, Madalena R. C. Mendes, Anneke Moresco, and Sheila C. Rahal

SELECTED ABSTRACTS FROM THE LITERATURE

Thank You to Our Supporters

In Memoriam: Professor Dr. Maria-Elisabeth Krautwald-Junghanns

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:10:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that we inform you that Dr. Marina Krautwald-Junghanns passed away peacefully on August 26, 2023 surrounded by family. Her passing leaves a large hole in avian medicine as we think of her as one of the leading figures in many facets of our field. From her text book on imaging to her many research papers, she gave us so much to better our care of our avian patients. Her lectures, papers and her presence in the lecture room inspired scientific inquiry while instilling integrity in our own work. She leaves behind a large number of colleagues who were inspired by her hard work and perseverance, many of which she trained or guided throughout her career. Our thoughts are with her family during this difficult time.

Tribute written by Dr. Susan Orosz

AAV members are welcome to read and share additional tributes here.

2023 Awards and Recognition

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 20:16:00 GMT

Congratulations to all of our 2023 Award and Grant Recipients!

T.J. Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year

Dr. Michelle Hawkins

Michelle Hawkins, VMD, DABVP (Avian Practice) is a Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California (UC), Davis, an Associate Director of the UC Davis One Health Institute Leadership Team, and the Director of the California Raptor Center.

AAV Honorary Lifetime Membership Recipients

Linda and Dr. Greg Harrison

Dr. Susan Clubb

Dr. Bob Groskin

AAV Avian Health Grant - $9,630

Development of novel techniques for diagnosis and treatment of Macrorhabdus ornithogaster in budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)

Jennifer Langan, DVM, DACZM, DECZM (Zoo Health Management) - Principal investigator;

Danielle Lang, DVM;

Katie W. Delk, DVM, DACZM;

Matt Allender, DVM, MS, PhD, DACZM;

Sathya Chinnadurai, DVM, MS, DACZM, DACVAA, DACAW;

Chien-Che Hung, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVM (Bacteriology, Mycology, Virology)

AAV Wild Bird Health Grant - $5,000

Antibiotic resistance and treatment plans for wounds of African penguins admitted for rehabilitation

Dr. David Roberts

Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds

House Officer Manuscript Awards

High bioavailability, short half-life, and metabolism into hydromorphone-3-glucuronide following single intramuscular and intravenous administration of hydromorphone hydrochloride to great horned owls (Bubo virginianus)

Mariana Sosa-Higareda, MVZ

William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital,
University of California - Davis

Effect of capromorelin (Entyce) on appetite and weight gain of domestic pigeons
(Columba livia domestica)

Kelsey Trumpp, DVM

University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine,

Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery

2023 President's Awards

Dr. Salina Locke

David Higson

Dr. Nikki Becich

2023 Outstanding Service Awards

Dr. Patricia Latas

Dr. Ernesto Dominguez

Dr. Susan Tyson

Dr. Julia Shakeri

Dr. Byron de la Navarre

Dr. Christina Knight

Journal of Avian Medicine & Surgery

2022-2023 Best Original Research Award Sponsored by Lafeber

“Comparison of Lipoprotein Analysis Using Gel-Permeation High-Performance Liquid Chromatography and a Biochemistry Analyzer in Normolipidemic and Dyslipidemic Quaker parrots (Myiopsitta monachus)”

Hugues Beaufrère and Darren Wood

J. of Avian Medicine and Surgery, 36(4):345-355 (2023).

Journal of Avian Medicine & Surgery

2022-2023 Best Clinical Report Sponsored by Lafeber

“Heterotopic Ossification Bone Formation in the Frontal Bones of an African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)”

Ashton J. Hollwarth, Maya C. Esmans, Annika Herrmann, Thomas A. G. Dutton

J. of Avian Medicine and Surgery, 36(4):388-393 (2023).

https://doi.org/10.1647/22-00002

Journal Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print - June 2023

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 21:59:00 GMT

An Official Publication of the Association of Avian Veterinarians

June 2023 | Vol 37-2

SELECTED ABSTRACTS AHEAD-OF-PRINT

Non-members: Complete articles are available for purchase through BioOne. Please visit the following URL for details: https://bioone.org/journals/journal-of-avian-medicine-and-surgery.

Determination of Coagulation Parameters by Whole Blood Dynamic Viscoelastic Coagulometry in Strigiformes

Lydie-Amy Leclerc, Claire Vergneau-Grosset, Guy Fitzgerald, João Brandão, and Carolyn Gara-Boivin

Successful Treatment of a Cervical Injury and Myopathy Using Integrative Medicine Techniques in an Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus) Following Cervical Entrapment

Lorrie K. Hale Mitchell, Ronald B. Koh, and Javier G. Nevarez

Retrospective Analysis of Pelvic Limb Fracture Management in Companion Psittacine Birds (60 Cases)

Ashton J. Hollwarth and Thomas A. G. Dutton

Selected Abstracts Ahead-of-Print Archive