The Vet Blast Podcast presented by dvm360

On this episode of The Vet Blast Podcast, our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA welcomed his former veterinary school classmate Stacy Anderson, DVM, MVSc, PhD, DACVS-LA,  the Executive Dean of the Lincoln Memorial University Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine, to  talk about the veterinary distributed work-based program, what exactly COWBEL is, the benefits of this type of program for students and clinics, and more! 

Sponsored by Elanco Elise Kelly, DVM, graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Sciences degree in zoology and a minor in chemistry. She earned her DVM degree from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, then practiced in Blue Springs, MO for 9 years before joining Elanco in 2015 as a Regional Consulting Veterinarian.  In her nine years of practice, her special interests included dermatology, small exotics, and reproductive medicine, attaining a certification in canine AI in 2012. Since joining Elanco, Kelly has had the opportunity to train intensively and speak on topics including parasitology, pain management, dermatology and immunology. She has given over 500 presentations and spoken at continuing education events including Kansas City’s Frostbite and the annual Missouri Veterinary Medical Association Conference. Kelly is Fear Free Elite, compassion fatigue and Human Animal Bond certified. She supports and works with Elanco sales representatives throughout the Midwest. She is a member of the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association and is Vice Chair for the board of directors at the Kansas City Pet Project. She currently resides in Independence, Missouri with her husband, two children, Sheepadoodle puppy, cat, and four goats.  In her spare time, you might find her cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, boating, hiking or traveling with her family. Indication Galliprant controls pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Important Safety Information For use in dogs only. Keep this and all medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. Galliprant is a non-COX inhibiting NSAID. As a class, NSAIDs may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney and liver side effects. Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended.  Do not use in dogs that have a hypersensitivity to grapiprant. Concomitant use of Galliprant with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids should be avoided. Concurrent use with other anti-inflammatory drugs or protein-bound drugs has not been studied. The safe use of Galliprant has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 9 months of age and less than 8 lbs (3.6 kg), dogs used for breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs, or dogs with cardiac disease. Owners should be advised to observe for signs of potential drug toxicity. Adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, watery or bloody stools, and decreases in serum albumin and total protein. Click here for full prescribing information Galliprant, Elanco, and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2025 Elanco or its affiliates. PM-US-25-1504

You can also watch the video version of this episode on dvm360.com Alice Jeromin, RPh, DACVD—Before earning her DVM degree from The Ohio State University, Jeromin graduated from the University of Toledo with a BS in Pharmacy and practiced as a hospital pharmacist. She completed her veterinary dermatology residency with Patrick Breen and dermatopathology training at Procter & Gamble, Miami Valley Labs, as well as a fellowship in human dermatology at Metro Health Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio with Bryan Davis. Jeromin is currently an adjunct professor at Case Western Reserve University, lecturer at Northeast Ohio College of Pharmacy, and former practice owner of Veterinary Allergy & Dermatology, Inc. She is a former member-at-large on AVMA’s Council on Biologicals and Therapeutics as chairman of the supplements and compounding committees. Along with publishing in human and veterinary journals, she authored the dermatology chapter in “Pharmacotherapeutics for Veterinary Dispensing”. Her interests include human-animal comparative dermatology and skin lipid research with publications in both areas.  Because of her pharmacist background of counseling patients, she is a strong believer in client education and maintains her website, www.purrfectpet.com, for clients to be educated with evidence-based information as well as an upcoming podcast "Speaking of Pets" The podcast is geared toward pet owners of allergic pets to provide them with accurate, evidence-based information.

Alexa Romano, DVM, graduated from St. George's University in 2020, and completed clinical rotations at Louisiana State University. Her undergraduate degree was done at The University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!). Outside of work, she spends her time with her husband, Carmine, two dogs - Asher and Lucy, and her cat - Ellie. In the summer she can be found jet skiing or relaxing on the beach. In the fall she watches a whole lot of football. Her and her husband love to travel, eat at new restaurants, and hangout by the fire pit with their friends and family. Romano loves all aspects of being a small animal veterinarian, but really enjoys surgery and internal medicine.

Rhys Giannarelli is a dedicated Multi-Site practice owner alongside his 'smarter half', his wife who is a veterinarian. He is an active member of VetPartners and the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA), and stays connected to the veterinary community through ongoing learning and collaboration. Like many practice owners, Giannarelli has faced his fair share of challenges. Operational inefficiencies, team disengagement, and financial pressure. You name it, he lived it. That real-world experience has shaped how he lead and how he help others do the same. Giannarelli's goal is simple, to help other practice owners shift from being stuck in the day-to-day to becoming confident business leaders. In his talks, he share practical, story-driven insights that attendees can actually use. Whether it’s streamlining systems, building a strong culture, or improving profitability, Giannarelli focuses on honest, actionable strategies that help owners get back to doing what they love.

This episode is sponsored by Scribenote Described as a human golden retriever, Ryan Gallagher likes to help people with technology. Gallagher is an engineer by training, a founder by nature, and a lover of working hard for an important mission. He started Scribenote to help his sister Katie get home on time from the clinic. He is proud that he’s finally achieved this goal, and won’t stop until all veterinarians who struggle with time-consuming medical records can make it home on time for dinner.

If Jeremiah Pouncy had to describe himself in one word, it would have to be 'dreamer.' He embodies this spirit as a veterinary student at Cornell University and as an entrepreneur with a vision to revolutionize veterinary medicine and the world beyond. His passion lies within wildlife and conservation, with the ultimate goal of never letting another species going extinct. However, to accomplish this seemingly unrealistic goal, he plans on diving into small animal emergency medicine and subsequently starting veterinary-focused real estate developments. Throughout his time pursuing these endeavors, he will also continue scaling his current businesses, such as his bottled water company & media brand. So, in every step, he strives to weave a narrative of innovation, compassion, and leadership. He’s  not just pursuing a career; He’s on a mission to inspire and empower, to transform dreams into reality. He is Jeremiah Allen Pouncy - a dreamer at heart, a visionary in action, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the world of veterinary medicine and beyond. Check out Pouncy's website here.

This episode is sponsored by Blue Buffalo. Watch the full video version of the podcast episode here. Natalie Marks, DVM, CVJ, CCFP, Elite FFC-V,  is an award-winning small animal veterinarian with over 20 years of clinical experience, previous practice owner, industry consultant, educator, media expert, co-owner of Veterinary Ownership Advocates, and CEO of VANE (the Veterinary Angel Network for Entrepreneurs). She is committed to supporting innovation in the animal health space and mentoring and supporting young founders and practice owners. Joya Griffin, DVM, DACVD,  is an Ohio native and graduated from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. While attending Cornell, she earned numerous awards, including the Dermatology Service Award for her aptitude in clinical dermatology and her research on Malassezia otitis externa. After graduation, she completed an internship at VCA Berwyn and Aurora Animal Hospitals in Chicago where she was awarded the Intern Abstract Award for her presentation on Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.  Griffin returned to Cornell University in 2007 for a residency in dermatology and, after completing her residency-training program, served one year as an instructor of dermatology teaching fourth-year clinical students as well as lecturing to underclassmen on bacterial, fungal, and immune-mediated skin diseases. Griffin became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD) in August 2010 and joined the Animal Dermatology Group. She has a special interest in fungal and immune-mediated skin diseases as well as feline and equine dermatology. She enjoys lecturing to fellow veterinarians, mentoring residents, and teaching the veterinary students who extern with her.  Griffin also stars in the Nat Geo WILD television series, “Pop Goes the Vet with Dr. Joya,” which highlights the challenging and mysterious cases she encounters in veterinary dermatology.  Griffin always strives to care for her patients as if they are her own pets and loves building a long-lasting relationship with their pet parents. Outside of work, Griffin enjoys spending time with her family and pets. She is happily married to Forrest Cummings, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), a veterinary internal medicine specialist, and they have 3 children - Caden and boy/girl twins, Coby and Carter. They have two cats, Donut and Peach Coffee, and two dogs, Guri and Magic. She loves traveling, entertaining and working out. Julia Miller, DVM, DACVD, is an Upstate NY native who grew up in the hallways of Cornell's vet school. She tried her hand at vocal performance (opera) in undergrad at Indiana University and in spite of having a blast singing all day long, she decided that her first true love, animals, offered a more stable and satisfying career. She graduated from Cornell's vet school in 2012 and then completed a large animal rotating internship at the University of Georgia. Mixed animal general practice kept her busy for the next few years where she also found herself falling in love with dermatology. She made her way back to Cornell and completed a dermatology residency after which she stayed on as faculty. When not ooing and aaahing over the grossest skin you can find Julia playing with her three bully-breed dogs (the squish!), singing in a rock cover band, or riding any horse that she can sit on. 

Sophia Jodka is a first year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Masters of Public Health dual degree student at Colorado State University. She recently graduated Summa Cumme Laude from North Carolina State University where she was highly involved in pre-veterinary leadership including organizing the 2024 APVMA Symposium and serving as an APVMA National Board Member. She continues to be highly involved in research and hopes to combine clinical practice and research in her future career to tackle global public health challenges. 

This podcast episode, and all Itchy Pet Awareness Month content, is sponsored by Apoquel. Elizabeth Capitano, DVM, CCFP, earned her veterinary degree from North Carolina State University and her BA in Psychology from Davidson College. After seven years in small animal practice, she transitioned to industry roles at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Virbac, and Elanco, where she specialized in veterinary education, sales training, and strategic marketing support. At Elanco, she led technical training initiatives, developed unique training strategies, and created game-changing educational programs. Capitano currently serves on the dermatology medical education team at Zoetis, where she partners with cross-functional teams to develop engaging educational content for veterinary healthcare professionals. She is also an active advocate for mental health in the veterinary profession through her work with Not One More Vet.  Capitano lives in Charlotte, NC with her family, and 2 English Bulldogs (Booger and Lola). She enjoys jewelry collecting, roller-skating, grooving to her husband’s band, and discovering new podcasts.

Sponsored by Elanco Program Description: Ticks pose a significant health risk to companion animals, both as blood-feeding parasites and as vectors for numerous pathogens. Over the past few decades, tick populations have expanded and intensified due to factors such as increased globalization, greater movement of humans and animals, and climate change. In the United States, common tick species—including the blacklegged tick, lone star tick, American dog tick, and brown dog tick—have the potential to transmit a range of bacterial, protozoal, and viral pathogens. Serological data indicate that tick-borne pathogens are a persistent challenge for dogs, with US canines frequently testing positive for agents of anaplasmosis, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis. Many of these same ticks and pathogens also pose a public health risk, as the tick species that commonly bite dogs can also transmit these same pathogens to humans. As a result, dogs can serve as valuable sentinels for tick-borne disease risks of their human families. Despite awareness of the risks ticks pose to pets, ticks are often and easily overlooked. Given that ticks are a year-round threat in most regions, annual testing and the routine use of fast-acting tick control products play a critical role in protecting pet health by killing ticks and reducing pathogen transmission risk. Learning Objectives: Identify the most common tick species in the US that pose a risk to companion animals and suggest resources where for investigating local tick and tick-borne pathogen risk. Explain the key factors contributing to the expansion and intensification of tick populations, including environmental and human-driven influences. Outline pathogens commonly transmitted by ticks to dogs and humans, including agents of anaplasmosis, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis. Discuss the speed at which different tick-borne pathogens are transmitted and the implications for timely intervention and prevention. Advise on effective tick prevention, treatment, and control strategies for dogs, including the importance of annual testing. Credelio Quattro Indications & ISI. Indications: Credelio Quattro (lotilaner, moxidectin, praziquantel, and pyrantel chewable tablets) is indicated for the prevention of heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis and for the treatment and control of roundworm (immature adult and adult Toxocara canis and adult Toxascaris leonina), hookworm (fourth stage larvae, immature adult, and adult Ancylostoma caninum and adult Uncinaria stenocephala), and tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia pisiformis, and Echinococcus granulosus) infections. Credelio Quattro kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis) and the treatment and control of tick infestations [Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick), Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick), Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick), and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick)] for one month in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older and weighing 3.3 pounds or greater. Important Safety Information: Lotilaner, an ingredient in Credelio Quattro, belongs to the isoxazoline class and has been associated with neurologic adverse reactions like tremors, ataxia, and seizures even in dogs without a history of seizures. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. Dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infections before Credelio Quattro administration as it is not effective against adult D. immitis. The safe use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. The most frequently reported adverse reactions in clinical trials were vomiting and diarrhea. For full prescribing information see the Credelio Quattro package insert. Credelio Quattro Label Credelio Quattro, Elanco, and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2025 Elanco or its affiliates.

James Bascharon, DVM, is the founder and CEO of Vetnique, a pet health company dedicated to creating vet-formulated solutions that help pets thrive for life. Since launching in 2012 with the groundbreaking supplement Glandex for anal gland health, Bascharon has led Vetnique to become a leader across multiple categories including digestive support, dermatology, ear care, and joint health. His passion for innovation has guided the company’s rapid growth—most recently marked by Vetnique’s acquisition and US launch of YuMOVE, a globally trusted, science-backed joint health supplement. Bascharon was also recently named an EY Entrepreneur of the Year award winner, a true testament to his impact on veterinary innovation and the pet health industry.

The episode is sponsored by The Eye Vets and was recorded on site during the 2025 Fetch Nashville conference. Watch the full video here. Benjamin Bergstrom, DVM, MS, DACVO, is originally from the rural, small town of Rockton, Illinois. He received his bachelor’s degree in 2009 followed by his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 2013 from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He then completed a one-year Small Animal rotating internship at the University of Georgia in Athens. Immediately following his rotating internship, he traveled back to the Midwest where he completed a three-year residency in Comparative Ophthalmology at Purdue University in 2017. As a board-certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist, Bergstrom began practicing in Nashville in 2017. In 2023, Bergstrom pursued a dream of becoming an independent practice owner and opened The Eye Vets in Nashville. Through a combination of in-person consultations and telecollaboration, Bergstrom aims to provide compassionate, innovative veterinary eye care to the greater Nashville area and beyond.

Check out the latest in veterinary medicine on dvm360.com Krista Halling, DVM, CCRP, DACVS, HAB-Certified, is a board-certified small animal surgeon and certified in both canine rehabilitation and the human-animal bond. With over 25 years of clinical and academic experience, she’s the founder of Dogpacking.com, a science-backed resource that helps dog owners deepen their bond through outdoor activities like hiking, biking, paddling, and camping. Drawing on veterinary research and real-world adventures with her mini goldendoodle, River, Halling focuses on the physical and emotional benefits of shared movement in nature. Her mission is to inspire people to get outside and connect with their dogs through activities in nature, enriching both lives in the process.

Jennifer Edwards, DVM, ACC, CPC, ELI-MP, is a mindset and leadership coach who helps professional women and organizations transform their relationship with leadership and life. Drawing from 13 years as CEO and owner of her veterinary practice, she now helps others break through limitations and achieve extraordinary results.  As an ICF credentialed coach specializing in leadership and transitions, Edwards develops conscious leaders and cohesive teams that transform challenges into opportunities and build thriving cultures.  Through private coaching, workshops, business culture audits, retreats and speaking engagements, Edwards combines proven leadership strategies with energy management techniques to help individuals and teams move from feeling stuck to leading with purpose and creating lives of deep fulfillment.  Edwards' expertise in conscious leadership and personal development has made her a sought-after speaker, coach, and business culture consultant who empowers people to master the mindset and energy needed for sustainable success and satisfaction. 

In this episode of Vet Watch, we dive into the essentials of veterinary ophthalmology with Jennifer Sheahan, DVM, DACVO and Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM. The pair discusses tonometry—what it is and why it’s important—along with practical tips and tricks for accurately measuring eye pressure. You’ll also learn expert techniques for using fluorescein stain, and get clear guidance on when and how to perform direct versus indirect retinal exams as a GP or ER vet. The discussion also goes in depth on the management of both primary and secondary glaucoma, with the goal of providing the knowledge and confidence necessary to handle these cases in practice. A link to the educational materials mentioned in the episode can be found here: Ophthalmology Resources Jennifer Sheahan, DVM, DACVO was born and raised in Edmond, Oklahoma. She graduated UC Irvine, with a major in Biology and Criminology in 2003. She attended Veterinary School at Oklahoma State University graduating in 2011. Following Veterinary School, she completed a one-year rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship at Ohio State University followed by a three-year residency in comparative ophthalmology at Animal Eye Care. She has a particular interest in ophthalmic pharmacology as well as dry eye disorders and retinal diseases. In her free time, she enjoys photography, running, traveling, and spending time with family.

Melissa Shapiro, DVM, is a small-animal veterinarian, author, and speaker. She is the creator and driving force behind the social media phenomenon Piglet, the deaf blind pink puppy. Shapiro is an outspoken advocate for disabled pets through media appearances, presentations at veterinary and pet care conferences, on her social media platforms, and through her monthly webinar series. Recently she created The Disabled Pets Project, a comprehensive resource for vets, pet parents, and rescuers who care for disabled pets. The website is disabledpets.org. Her nonprofit, Piglet International Inc., implements the Piglet Mindset® Educational Program, an authentic teaching asset emphasizing resilience, inclusion, and kindness, in schools globally. Her memoir, Piglet, the unexpected story of a deaf blind pink puppy and his family, and children’s book, Piglet Comes Home, are available wherever books are sold. Shapiro is the owner of Visiting Vet Service. She lives in CT with her husband, Warren Shapiro, Piglet, and his pack of 7 rescued dogs.

Michael Tokiwa, DVM, is a practicing small animal veterinarian and the owner of Progressive Veterinary Care. With over 2 decades of clinical experience, he is passionate about delivering high-quality, compassionate medicine while mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals. He is also the creator and host of two long-running radio shows and podcasts—Your Pet Matters and The Collaborative Vet—where he bridges the gap between pet parents and professionals by educating, inspiring, and advocating for better pet care and stronger veterinary communities. Tokiwa is actively involved in national veterinary initiatives, including advisory roles with Boehringer Ingelheim and participation in specialty collaboration networks. Known for his energetic, honest approach, he combines clinical expertise with media outreach to elevate both the profession and public understanding of veterinary medicine.

This episode is sponsored by VCA Animal Hospitals Jennifer Scanlon, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a master’s degree in social work from Simmons University in Boston. With a strong background in working with the elderly and providing end-of-life and hospice care, she brings compassion and expertise to her practice. Currently, she serves as a veterinary social worker at VCA South Shore Animal Hospital, where she supports both clients and staff in navigating the emotional challenges associated with pet care and loss. Jennifer is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of those she serves, combining her passion for social work with her love for animals.

This podcast is sponsored by Antech Diagnostics Michelle Evason, BSc, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), MRCVS, serves as Global Director, Veterinary Clinical Education for Antech Diagnostics (MARS). She has worked in general practice, academia, specialty clinical practice, and in the animal health industry. Michelle has published on numerous infectious diseases, antimicrobial stewardship, nutrition, spectrum of care, veterinary- and pet-owner education related topics. She keeps busy (and humble!) with 2 teenage daughters, 1 husband, multiple 4-legged creatures, and numerous imperfect projects in various stages of completion on her farm in PEI, Canada.