As a dedicated veterinarian licensed in West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Missouri and the Northern Mariana Islands, I understand the critical importance of continuing education in maintaining the highest standards of care for my patients.
Each state has its own requirements for continuing education (CE) credits and renewal periods, which necessitates a dynamic and comprehensive approach to professional development.
My journey in veterinary medicine has been marked by a commitment to lifelong learning, ensuring that I stay at the forefront of medical advancements and best practices.
One of the cornerstones of my CE activities is the annual Ohio Veterinary Medicine Conference held every February.
This conference is a pivotal event in my calendar, offering a diverse range of seminars and hands-on workshops.
Over the years, I have concentrated on various specialties to enhance my clinical skills and expand my knowledge base.
Last year, my focus was on orthopedics, particularly an advanced lab on Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery. TPLO is a specialized procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament injuries in dogs, and mastering this technique has significantly improved the outcomes for my patients with such conditions.
The conference provided an invaluable opportunity to learn from leading experts and practice the procedure in a controlled environment.
In previous years, I dedicated my time to advanced dentistry.
Dental health is a crucial aspect of overall animal well-being, and gaining expertise in this field has allowed me to offer comprehensive dental care, from routine cleanings to complex oral surgeries.
The Ohio Veterinary Medicine Conference has consistently been a rich resource for cutting-edge knowledge and skills that directly benefit my patients.
This year, my professional development journey includes completing avian practitioner coursework. Birds present unique challenges and require specialized knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat effectively.
The coursework covers a wide range of topics, including avian anatomy, physiology, behavior, and specific medical conditions.
By completing this training, I aim to enhance my ability to provide high-quality care to avian patients and support the growing number of bird owners seeking expert veterinary services.
In addition to clinical skills, I recognize the importance of effective practice management in delivering exceptional veterinary care.
This year, I plan to attend a practice management conference, likely in Chicago. These conferences offer insights into the latest trends and strategies in managing a veterinary practice, from improving client communication and enhancing team efficiency to implementing advanced technology and optimizing financial performance.
Accompanying me to the practice management conference will be my practice manager, Mike.
As a new leader in the veterinary field, Mike plays a crucial role in our practice’s success. To support his development, I have enrolled him in 60 hours of animal behavior training and management. This training will equip him with the knowledge and skills to address behavioral issues in our patients and enhance the overall client experience.
My dedication to continuing education joins my adventurous spirit to extend beyond national borders.
A couple of years ago, I attended a veterinary-specific class in the Galapagos, which provided a unique perspective on wildlife and exotic animal care. Additionally, I participated in a cruise class combo to Australia, combining travel with professional development.
These international experiences enriched my understanding of global veterinary practices and exposed me to diverse species and medical challenges. I am currently exploring similar opportunities for next year, as these experiences greatly contribute to my professional growth and the quality of care I provide.
The requirements for CE credits vary between the states in which I am licensed. Despite these differences, I have consistently exceeded the minimum requirements, averaging about 100 hours of continuing education annually.
This commitment goes beyond mere compliance; it reflects my dedication to providing the best possible care for my patients and advancing the field of veterinary medicine.
Continuing education is not just a professional obligation; it is a passion that drives me to constantly improve and innovate.
By staying informed about the latest research, technologies and treatment modalities, I can offer my patients the highest standard of care. It also allows me to mentor my team effectively, ensuring that our practice remains at the cutting edge of veterinary medicine.
In conclusion, continuing education is a cornerstone of my veterinary practice. Whether through attending conferences, completing specialized coursework or supporting my team’s development, I am committed to lifelong learning.
This dedication ensures that I can provide exceptional care to my patients, meet the diverse needs of pet owners and contribute to the advancement of veterinary medicine.
My journey in continuing education is a testament to my unwavering commitment to excellence in veterinary care.

MJ Wixsom, DVM MS is a best-selling Amazon author who practices at Guardian Animal Medical Center in Flatwoods, Ky. GuardianAnimal.com 606-928-6566