Registration Info
Join us in New Orleans!
Y’all better hold onto your stethoscopes, because VETgirl is coming to New Orleans! That’s right, pack your bags and head on down to the Big Easy for VETgirl U 2024, the veterinary conference you won’t want to miss. From June 27-30, join us at the Hyatt Regency for an educational experience like no other. With TED-talk like, case-based lectures presented by the profession’s brightest minds, you’ll be sure to learn something new. But who says CE has to be all work and no play? We promise to bring the excitement and cultural richness of New Orleans right along with us. So come on down and laissez les bon temps rouler!
We promise it’ll be the most clinically relevant, practical CE you get live (well, besides our online webinars).
Registration will open around November 1, 2023, so get ready!
Get ready to let the good times roll in the Big Easy because VETgirl is bringing its A-game to New Orleans! We’re talking wined and dined in true VETgirl fashion, with amazing speakers, a fancy-pants hotel, and evening events that are the talk of the town.
*Daycare registration is provided on a first-come, first-served basis allocated based on the registration date.
When registering for this conference, you’re agreeing to the VETgirl Conference Attendee Policy and Guidelines. Review New Orleans visitor safety information.
Education
Select from 2 Tracks in 2024!
VETgirl U 2024 is back and better than ever! And let me tell you, we’re bringing some serious knowledge to the Bayou. With not one, but TWO tracks (for veterinarians and veterinary technicians), we’re covering everything from diabetes mellitus to toxicology. VETgirl U 2024 is all about learning and exploring, and who wouldn’t want to do that while noshing on some beignets and sipping on some chicory coffee? See you there, y’all!
6/27 | Master Classes & Registration |
6/28 | Sessions & Exhibits |
6/29 | Sessions & Exhibits |
6/30 | Sessions & Exhibits |
New in 2024! Master Class Workshops
Join us for a Master Class Workshop, led by some of the top experts in the profession. This is a unique opportunity to dive deeper into specific topics and gain valuable knowledge and skills to elevate your practice. Don’t miss out on this chance to invest in your professional development. Space is limited.
Date: Thursday, June 27
Location: Hyatt Regency, Ballroom Pending
CE Credit Hours: 6/Master Class
Capacity: 100 Attendees
*Pending RACE approval
Speakers
Speakers are being added regularly – check back for updates!
Anthony Fischetti, DVM, DACVR
Dr. Anthony Fischetti is the Service Head of Radiology and Radiation Safety Officer at Animal Medical Center (AMC). He received his undergraduate and veterinary degrees from Cornell University (1997, 2001), internship training at the University of Pennsylvania (2001-2002), and Residency/Master’s Degree from Ohio State University (2002-2015). He is an executive council member of the American College of Veterinary Radiology (ACVR) and Webmaster of the ACVR.com website. He is the resident director for the AMC’s Diagnostic Imaging Residency, Adjunct Professor of Radiology at Western University Veterinary College, and overseas teaching of over 50 interns, residents, and students each year at AMC. Dr. Fischetti speaks nationally and internationally on a variety of topics related to veterinary radiology.
Tiffany grew up in a small mill town in the White Mountains of northern New Hampshire. She attended Becker College in central Massachusetts and while there she had the opportunity to work at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine where she recognized her desire to specialize in emergency and critical care medicine.
Read MoreAmy graduated from Bel-Rea Institute’s Veterinary Technician Program in 2000 after receiving her BS in biology from the University of Nebraska in 1996. Amy worked as a veterinary assistant and receptionist while going through school and after graduation, she worked in small animal emergency and general practices and in university research labs.
Read MoreInternal Medicine
Patty Lathan, DVM, DACVIM
Patty Lathan, VMD, MS, DACVIM, is an associate professor of small animal internal medicine at Louisiana State University. Previously, she was on faculty at Mississippi State University. Her primary interest is endocrinology, specifically the management of adrenal disease and diabetes mellitus. She has published several articles and book chapters, given lectures throughout the United States and internationally, and currently serves as the President of the Society for Comparative Endocrinology. Her students also publish educational endocrine music videos as an assignment for her elective, and those can be viewed on her YouTube channel.
Emergency & Critical Care; Toxicology
Justine Lee, DVM, DACVECC, DABTVETgirl was the brainchild of Dr. Justine Lee. Years ago, while frantically studying for her board examination(s), she decided to take some time out to relieve some stress (aka “panic) by running. While pounding the pavement, she thought, “Why can’t I listen to this stuff on my Walkman while I exercise?” (She is old, and this was pre-iPod days). Since sleeping on top of her textbooks didn’t appear to osmotically work, she decided that this “listen and learn” modality would truly be the best way to “take it all” in while frantically multi-tasking. And that’s when she teamed up with techno-savvy Dr. Pachtinger to create VETgirl…
Read MoreNeurology
Arturo Otamendi, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology)
Dr. Arturo Otamendi attended Louisiana State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Sciences. Following the completion of his undergraduate studies, Dr. Otamendi attended Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine where he received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He then completed a yearlong small animal rotating medicine and surgery internship at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Following that, Dr. Otamendi completed a neurology & neurosurgery residency at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine. Although interested in all aspects of veterinary neurology, Dr. Arturo Otamendi maintains a particular interest in diagnosing and managing brain and spinal cord tumors, inflammatory brain disease, and traumatic spinal cord injuries. One of his favorite parts of practicing veterinary neurology is helping paralyzed dogs walk again and providing client education. He believes knowledge is power and loves being able to help clients understand their pet’s illness. Dr. Otamendi was born in Venezuela and moved to Metairie (a suburb outside of New Orleans) at 9 years old. He is a proud graduate of East Jefferson High School, where he was valedictorian. He is also a life-long musician, with his main instruments being trombone and bassoon. He has been involved in many community music groups over the years.
Emergency & Critical Care
Garret Pachtinger, VMD, DACVECCDr. Garret Pachtinger, DACVECC is the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of VETgirl and is committed to veterinary education through technology. Dr. Pachtinger is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Following veterinary school, he completed a one-year internship in small animal medicine and surgery, a one-year internship in emergency and critical care, and a three-year residency in emergency and critical care at the University of Pennsylvania, becoming a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care in 2010. After completion of his residency, Dr. Pachtinger joined the Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center in Levittown, Pa.
Read MoreClinical Pathology
Barbie Papajeski, MS, LVT, RLATG, VTS (Clinical Pathology)
Barbie teaches clinical pathology and laboratory animal courses in the veterinary technology program at Murray State University and is a continuing education instructor for the Veterinary Support Personnel Network. Before full-time teaching, she worked at the Breathitt Veterinary Center diagnostic laboratory. She currently serves as secretary of the Academy of Veterinary Clinical Pathology Technicians and the Kentucky Veterinary Technician Association. She resides in western Kentucky, near Land Between the Lakes, where she loves to hike with her 2 sons and husband. She shares her home with 3 dogs, 4 cats, and an assortment of feathered and scaled animals.
Neurology
Rose Peters, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology)
Dr. Rose Peters graduated from the University of Illinois in 2005 and went on to complete a rotating internship in small animal medicine and surgery with VCA. Afterwards, she worked as an emergency clinician for canine, feline, and non-traditional species in a New Orleans multi-specialty practice where she ultimately became the head of the department. She also became certified in veterinary acupuncture through CSU to expand the Rehabilitation department services during that time. Neurology has been a long-time passion, and Dr. Peters finally left New Orleans to complete a Neurology internship at a multispecialty practice in Virginia, and then completed a residency with board certification in Neurology at the University of Florida. She also holds the ACVIM certification in Neurosurgery and has enjoyed a broad range of medical and surgical cases in her time working in multispecialty private practices in New Orleans and South Florida. She is happy to have returned to the University of Illinois to join old friends on the clinical neurology team as an assistant professor of veterinary clinical neurology. She is interested in finding the most effective ways to empower veterinary students, house officers, and graduated veterinarians with the skills required to serve today’s community needs. Rose’s research focus is on veterinary neurology medical education with additional special interests in neurologic problems in non-traditional species and integrative medicine for the neurologic patient. Rose is the recipient of the Heiligenstein Excellence in Teaching Award and is repeatedly ranked “excellent” by her students.
Anesthesia/Analgesia; Emergency & Critical Care
Jane Quandt, DVM, MS, DACVAA, DACVECC
Dr. Quandt obtained her DVM from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1987. Following this, Dr. Quandt was in a small animal practice for one year then decided to pursue an anesthesia residency and board certification. She completed an anesthesia residency and Masters in anesthesia at the University of Minnesota and became boarded in anesthesia in 1993. In order to improve her ability to manage critical cases, Dr. Quandt then completed a second residency in small animal emergency and critical care and became boarded in small animal emergency and critical care in 2007. Dr. Quandt was on faculty at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota and is currently a tenured full professor in comparative anesthesia at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Quandt has had the privilege of be awarding the Carl Norden-Pfizer Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award and the Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award.
Ophthalmology
Shelby Reinstein, DVM, MS, DACVODr. Shelby Reinstein, MS, DACVO is a board-certified ophthalmologist residing in the beautiful area of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Dr. Reinstein obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Science degrees from Kansas State University and completed her fellowship and residency in Ophthalmology at The Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
Read MoreIncluded with your registration, VETgirl provides you with a printed copy of all the proceedings which will be distributed during conference check-in. We will have additional proceedings available for sale at the swag shop.
Not able to attend this year? Get your copy of the veterinarian track or veterinary technician track proceedings.
To the entire VETgirl crew – THANK YOU! This was my first VETgirl conference and it exceeded all expectations!!! I’ve been going to conferences all over the country for the past 26 years and this has become my absolute favorite!!! See you in NOLA!
- VETgirl U 2023 Attendee
Hotel + Area
Enjoy Luxury Accommodations in the Heart of NOLA
Get ready to let the good times roll! There’s no better place to experience the rich and vibrant culture of the Big Easy than at the Hyatt Regency. Hop on over to the nearby Caesars Superdome and catch an event, or take a stroll to the charming French Quarter and Arts District. And when you need a break from all that excitement, don’t forget to kick back and relax at the hotel pool bar, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a refreshing drink with panoramic views of the city. With so much to see and do in eclectic, fun-loving New Orleans, you’ll surely make memories that last a lifetime.
Hyatt Regency New Orleans offers premium valet services. In addition, there are several nearby parking lots, including the 1301 Girod Parking Garage that connects directly to the hotel. Contact Merit Parking to confirm pricing — (504) 561-0575.
Onsite parking is limited/subject to availability.
Embrace the timeless charm and captivating allure of New Orleans – a city steeped in history, blending European elegance with vibrant Caribbean influences. From the alluring scents of gumbo wafting through the air to the enchanting rhythms of drums and Blues guitar, this picturesque metropolis awaits your discovery. Lose yourself in its hidden courtyards, historic mansions, and authentic experiences. Prepare to be captivated by the refined ambiance and cultural richness that define this extraordinary destination.
Thank you to everyone that put on the VetGirl 2023 conference!! This was my first ever veterinary conference and I was completely blown away! The amazing location, great CE, awesome swag … the list goes on!
- VETgirl U 2023 Attendee
Events & Services
All the Extras to Make Your Experience Awesome!
Hey there, fellow fun-seekers! Just wanted to drop a quick note to let you know that we’ve been hard at work behind the scenes planning some seriously entertaining evening events. But don’t worry, we won’t keep you waiting in suspense for too long. Details are forthcoming, so stay tuned! You won’t want to miss out on the fun. 😉
Morning Yoga
Wake up and smell the yoga, folks! Looking for a way to start your day off on the right foot? Or left foot, if you prefer. Kick-start your day with a little namaste.
Hours
Fri-Sun 7 – 7:30 AM
Location
Pending
Wellness Zone
Ready for a little self-care? Head over to the wellness center at VETgirl U. Take a breather between sessions and relax.
Hours
Pending
Location
Pending
Daycare (Kidz Zone)
Who says you can’t have it all? With VETgirl U, you don’t have to choose between advancing your education and enjoying time with your little ones. Thanks to our industry partner, Plus One Meetings, we’re offering FREE daycare to attendees. So go ahead and bring your children along for the ride – they’ll have a “paw-some” time while you’re busy learning. No need to worry about missing out on precious bonding time or feeling guilty about leaving them at home. VETgirl U is here to make sure you can do it all, and do it with a smile.
Hours
Pending
Location
Pending
Pre-registration and a $100 deposit are required at registration to reserve space. Your deposit will be refunded after the conference if your child attends.
Nursing Rooms
Attention all new mothers! As a new mom, you probably feel like you’re running on empty while simultaneously trying to keep a tiny human alive. Well, have no fear, VETgirl U is here to save the day! Enjoy a private oasis where you can relax and nurse your little one without any distractions. With comfortable seating, a refrigerator for milk storage, and water at your fingertips, you can finally take a deep breath and enjoy this special space. No need to worry about prying eyes or awkward encounters – this private area is exclusively for you. So sit back, relax, and let VETgirl U give you the peace and quiet (and the fridge) you deserve!
Hours
Pending
Location
Pending
Missed previous VETgirl U conferences, but don’t want to miss the clinically relevant TED-talk lectures? All of the practical VETgirl U lectures from previous live events are available on demand. Whether you are a member or a non-member, you can get them now and earn yourself 20+ hrs of RACE-approved CE.
Connect with Our Community
Exhibitors & Sponsors
Interested in becoming an EXHIBITOR or SPONSOR? Get all the details here including the 2024 VETgirl U Exhibitor Application (we’ve gone completely digital)!
Executive Exhibit Experience
What’s included …
$3,000
New in 2024! Premium Exhibitor Experience
$3,500
Reserve your booth and get all the details in our exhibitor kit. Click on the button below to submit your application.
Thanks VETGirl for an amazing conference, and beautiful location and for making me feel special. So relaxing and so much to take back to my practice! See you next year.
- VETgirl U 2023 Attendee