Animal Health Solution - a Covetrus magazine for veterinary professionals
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1345282
6 Covetrus | ph: 855.724.3461 | fx: 888.329.3861 | northamerica.covetrus.com Q : What are the most significant changes/shifts you have witnessed in your time as a veterinarian? A: There have been incredible changes over the years including the enhanced bond between people and pets. Anyone that has ever had a puppy lick them in the face or a cat curl up in their lap would agree that there are very few things are as impactful as the unconditional love of a pet. Advances in the clinical care we provide for animals has also been amazing with major improvements in medications, equipment, and knowledge now often rivaling that in human healthcare. Covetrus proudly introduces our new CVO, Dr. Link Welborn, DVM Q : What led you to co-found VSG? A: There was only one Veterinary Management Group (VMG) for many years and its 20 members were all owners of small animal practices. We formed Veterinary Study Groups (VSG) when it became apparent that there was a need for not only additional VMGs comprised of leaders of small animal practices, but also equine, mixed animal, specialty, and emergency practices, as well as university teaching hospitals. We now provide infrastructure and support for over 50 VMG groups. In reality, the basic concept of leaders of similar practices, none of whom are competitors, coming together to share ideas to help each of succeed and tackle common challenges is more powerful than virtually any other opportunity for the advancement of practices and their leaders. Recently, Covetrus appointed Dr. Link Welborn, DVM as its first Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) for North America. Dr. Welborn is a diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, certified in Canine and Feline Practice, the owner of six hospitals accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and an AAHA president emeritus. In addition to his clinical focus, he has a strong interest in practice management and driving the economics of the veterinary profession. He co-founded Veterinary Study Groups (VSG), the umbrella organization for more than 50 Veterinary Management Groups (VMGs). We sat down with Dr. Welborn to chat with him about his profession and the animal health industry.