The Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV, has been abuzz with activities as it hosts the 96th WVC Annual Conference from Feb. 17 to 21. Organized by the Viticus Group, the event serves as a central hub for veterinary professionals, showcasing the latest developments in veterinary medicine and continuing education.
Attendees—predominantly veterinarians and veterinary technicians from across the U.S. and beyond—have access to more than 850 hours of continuing education (CE) credits spanning various disciplines. The educational offerings range from traditional teaching methods to interactive experiences, such as glass blowing, painting, and card games, complemented by 30-plus hands-on lab trainings. This year, the Viticus Group collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to offer a dedicated “One Health” education track, addressing pertinent issues for veterinary and human health professionals.
Anthony Pease, DVM, MS, DACVR, chief medical officer of Viticus Group, highlights the conference’s significance in addressing challenges within the veterinary field, emphasizing the need for preparedness among veterinary students and technicians.
“One of the biggest problems we have is that veterinary medicine is just so huge. The challenge is that veterinary students and technicians are coming out and they know a lot of things, but they’re not quite ready to do them,” Dr. Pease tells Veterinary Practice News. “And it’s hard because… there are so many practices that are overwhelmed, and I think one of the biggest challenges people have in mental health is because they feel like they’re not prepared. Honestly, it’s one of the reasons why we have this conference… to [help them] become better and be more confident.”
Beginning on Feb. 17, paid hands-on labs have been offered, where Olympic swimmer and mental health advocate Michael Phelps opened the general session as the keynote speaker. From Feb. 18, educational sessions have been running throughout the day, with session speakers covering topics about small animal, avian and exotics, food animal, equine, practice management, and veterinary technician.
“I love the variety of all the classes… There is a little bit of everything for everyone. Plus, it’s Vegas! I’ve been here since Saturday [Feb. 17]. I did the offsite lab, which I think is definitely worth the money for anyone who is thinking of [say] ultrasound labbing,” shares Diana Beltran, DVM, a first-time attendee at the WVC. “I just graduated about two years ago and I have zero experience in ultrasound, I just know how to hold it! [That is why], I think the hands-on labs are worth the price you pay for it. I got the value, plus more, making it one of my favorites… so far.”
Day two kicked off with the opening of the 100,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall, with nearly 600 exhibitors showcasing their latest technologies and innovations. The hall also offers learning lounges and “career corners” tailored to young professionals seeking opportunities and direction. The day also marked the beginning of “Vet Detective,” a daily cash prize game sponsored by PRN Pharmacal. Attendee James Maciulla, DVM, MBA, MBA, shares his thoughts on the overall atmosphere of the conference: “On the conference at large, [in terms of] the energy and enthusiasm, I’ve never seen veterinary medicine this dynamic.”
The 97th WVC Annual Conference has been announced to run from March 2 to 5, 2025. For more information, click here.