Ardent & Med Dimensions Commercialize Innovative 3D Joint Model for Veterinarians

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Lexington, KY – April 26th, 2023 – Ardent, a company focused on innovation in pet health has partnered with Med Dimensions to bring to the veterinary market a fully synthetic 3D-printed canine joint model for veterinarian training. The model will replace the traditional practice of training on cadaver patients and allow for advanced training for veterinarians on joint-based treatments. Joint-based therapies such as regenerative medicine treatments including Platelet Rich Plasma, Stem Cell, and Protein based biologics have exploded in popularity for pet parents replacing traditional treatments that mask or block their pet’s pain.

Still, the importance of delivering joint-based biologic treatments in and around the areas of the disease remains vital to long-term healing. Historically, few joint-based therapies existed in companion animal medicine and training was cumbersome and required sensitive logistics in cadaver sourcing. 

Our veterinarian customers are compassionate healers, this innovative training model will allow for joint therapy training to enter the era of innovation. With virtual reality-based medical training now available in human healthcare it’s time we move the needle in animal health. By providing this training model Ardent intends to continue to expand its regenerative medicine procedures to clinics across the world and academic training facilities. Seeking out partnerships with nimble innovators like the Med Dimensions team allows Ardent to accelerate our mission.  

The use of simulation models can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional training methods that may require expensive equipment and materials, as well as the use of real animals, which can be costly and potentially risky. Models can be reused for multiple training sessions, allowing veterinary professionals to practice procedures and skills repeatedly without the need for additional resources- enabling them to develop and refine their skills in a controlled environment, without the pressure and stress that comes with treating real animals. This new injection model has been designed to provide healthcare professionals with a realistic and immersive training experience for administering injections.

The joint injection training tool is designed to simulate the anatomical structure of a joint in animals, providing veterinarians with a realistic experience of administering joint injections. It allows for repeated practice, building confidence and proficiency in the technique. The tool is user-friendly and made of durable materials, ensuring longevity and ease of use. This synthetic joint model is now available for purchase, contact Ardent at 1.800.365.9168 or email info@ardentanimalhealth.com to learn more about adding this to your practice or organization.   

Key Features & Benefits: 

  • Created using imaging to create an anatomically correct model for the canine hip and stifle joint.
  • Designed with durable material for long-term use
  • Ability to order replacement parts 
  • Provides Veterinarians with a tool to practice both hip and stifle joint injections
  • Ardent provides Joint Injection Virtual Training session available with Board Certified Veterinary Surgeon

About Ardent

Ardent is a BreakThru company, a growing family of entrepreneurial businesses with a core mission of improving the lives of people and pets. This core mission has allowed Ardent to develop affordable, innovative treatments for canine cancer and joint disease assisting our veterinarian partners to make a positive impact on pet health. Learn more about Ardent by visiting – https://ardentanimalhealth.com.

About Med Dimensions

Med Dimensions is founded on one simple principle: taking uncertainty out of medical procedures. We believe no patient should be denied access to technologies that improve the surgical experience. We continue to work tirelessly to develop a system which gives any surgeon access to high quality, patient specific models and tools to ensure a faster and safer procedure. By combining our industry expertise with the efficiency of rapid manufacturing technologies, we are proud to offer our customers a cost effective and accuracy driven service. We’ve made it our mission to tailor our services to as diverse a range of customers as possible, human and animal, in order to have an extensive impact. Learn more about Med Dimensions by visiting – https://www.med-dimensions.com.

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Does Surgical Practice Actually Make Perfect?

Surgical practice has been a significant part of modern medicine for centuries. It involves the use of specialized techniques and tools to treat a variety of conditions in humans and animals. Veterinary surgeons play a vital role in surgical practice for animals, performing procedures that improve the quality of life and prolong the lives of pets, livestock, and other animals. This blog post will explore the different aspects of surgical practice as it relates to veterinary surgeons- answering that surgical practice makes (almost) perfect.

Types of Surgeries:

Veterinary surgeons perform a variety of surgeries, ranging from routine spaying and neutering to complex procedures like orthopedic surgeries. Elective surgeries like spaying and neutering are done to prevent reproductive-related issues in pets and reduce the overpopulation of strays. On the other hand, emergency surgeries like gastrointestinal obstruction or a ruptured spleen require immediate attention to save the life of the animal. Reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries are also performed by veterinary surgeons to correct deformities and improve the aesthetics of the animal.

Pre-Surgical Preparations Practice:

Pre-surgical preparation is critical for ensuring the success of the procedure and the safety of the animal. Before any surgery, the animal is thoroughly evaluated by the veterinary surgeon to determine its overall health status. Blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds are done to check for any underlying conditions that may affect the surgery’s outcome. The surgical team also administers anesthesia to keep the animal sedated and pain-free during the procedure. This can be practiced by 3D printing patient specific models, doing dry runs of the surgical set up, and planning the appropriate steps by hand.

The Surgical Procedure:

The veterinary surgeon performs the surgical procedure while the animal is under anesthesia. The type of procedure determines the specific tools and techniques used, which can range from traditional scalpel and forceps to advanced surgical instruments like laparoscopes and arthroscopes. The surgical team closely monitors the animal’s vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure that it remains stable. A surgical procedure can be practiced by various models or cadavers- specific to the anatomic region of the procedure- simulating real life tissues, tendons, and pathology of actual issues needing surgical correction.

Post-Surgical Care:

After the surgery, the animal is closely monitored for any signs of complications or discomfort. The surgical team administers pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection and manage pain. The animal may need to stay in the hospital for a few days or longer, depending on the type of procedure and the extent of the surgery. The veterinary surgeon provides detailed post-operative instructions to the animal’s owner to ensure that the animal recovers fully. Post surgical care can be practiced by practicing suturing with models, using gauze on limbs, and practicing various techniques for wound dressings.

Advancements in Surgical Practice:

Veterinary surgical practice has made significant advancements over the years, with new techniques and tools continually being developed. Minimally invasive surgery is becoming more common in veterinary medicine, which involves making smaller incisions and using specialized instruments to minimize trauma to the animal. The use of lasers in surgery is also becoming more prevalent, which provides greater precision and reduces bleeding.

Challenges in Surgical Practice:

Veterinary surgical practice faces several challenges, including access to specialized equipment and training. Rural areas can lack the resources necessary to provide advanced surgical care, and veterinary surgeons may need to refer animals to larger cities for specialized procedures. Another challenge is ethical considerations, such as deciding when to perform life-saving surgery on an animal that may not have a high quality of life afterward. Additionally, not having the access to practice models can reduce the quality of care that a clinician or technician can provide to animals.

Veterinary surgical practice plays a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of animals. Veterinary surgeons perform a wide range of surgeries, from routine spaying and neutering to complex orthopedic procedures. With advancements in surgical techniques and tools, veterinary surgical practice continues to evolve and improve. Challenges like access to specialized equipment and ethical considerations require ongoing attention to ensure that animals receive the best possible care. Overall, veterinary surgical practice is an essential part of animal healthcare and an essential service for pet owners and animal lovers alike.

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Why 3D Print For Medical Purposes?

Over the past decade, 3D printing technology has rapidly advanced and become more accessible, leading to its integration in various fields, including medicine. In surgical practice, 3D printing has been gaining popularity due to its ability to create customized, patient-specific anatomical models, surgical instruments, implants, and prosthetics. In this blog, we will explore the use of 3D printing in surgical practice and its benefits.

The Benefits of 3D Printing in Surgical Practice:

  1. Personalized Patient Care: 3D printing allows surgeons to create customized anatomical models based on patient scans, providing a better understanding of the patient’s unique anatomy. This allows surgeons to plan surgeries more accurately and reduces the risk of complications during the surgery.
  2. Surgical Instrumentation: 3D printing has made it possible to create customized surgical instruments, which can be designed to meet specific surgical needs. This has led to improved surgical outcomes and increased safety for patients.
  3. Implants and Prosthetics: 3D printing has revolutionized the production of implants and prosthetics. With the ability to create patient-specific implants and prosthetics, surgeons can improve patient outcomes, reduce surgical time, and decrease the need for additional surgeries.
  4. Education and Training: 3D printing has also been used to improve the education and training of surgical residents and medical students. Anatomical models can be created to simulate surgical procedures, allowing students to practice surgical techniques and gain hands-on experience.

The Use of 3D Printing in Surgical Practice:

  1. Anatomical Models: Anatomical models created using 3D printing have been used to plan surgeries, improve surgical outcomes, and reduce surgical time. A study conducted in 2020 found that the use of 3D-printed anatomical models improved the accuracy of surgical planning and decreased the time required for surgical procedures (1).
  2. Surgical Instrumentation: 3D printing has been used to create customized surgical instruments for various surgical procedures. A study published in 2018 found that customized 3D-printed instruments reduced surgical time and improved surgical outcomes in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery (2).
  3. Implants and Prosthetics: 3D printing has been used to create patient-specific implants and prosthetics. A study published in 2021 found that 3D-printed implants improved surgical outcomes and reduced the risk of complications in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery (3).
  4. Education and Training: Anatomical models created using 3D printing have been used to improve the education and training of surgical residents and medical students. A study published in 2020 found that the use of 3D-printed anatomical models improved the surgical skills of surgical residents (4).

Conclusion:

The use of 3D printing in surgical practice has revolutionized patient care, surgical instrumentation, implants and prosthetics, and education and training. With the ability to create customized patient-specific anatomical models, surgical instruments, implants, and prosthetics, surgeons can improve patient outcomes and reduce surgical time. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, it is likely that its use in surgical practice will become even more widespread.

References:

  1. Zhang, J., Xu, L., Wei, B., & Wang, S. (2020). The application of 3D printing technology in the surgical treatment of thoracic spinal tumors. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 15(1), 1-8.
  2. Shin, M. J., Kim, H. J., Ha, K. Y., Kim, Y. H., Kim, K. N., & Yoo, J. H. (2018). A feasibility study on the clinical application of customized 3D printed instruments in thoracic and lumbar spine
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Will Artificial Intelligence Be Used in Veterinary Medicine?

The use of AI will tremendously impact the industry, especially in Medical Imaging

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way many industries operate, and veterinary medicine is no exception. The use of AI in veterinary medicine has great potential to improve animal health outcomes and assist veterinarians in making more accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions, leading to overall improvement in the way we care for our pets.

One area where AI will be of powerful use in veterinary medicine is in medical imaging. Medical imaging refers to the use of various techniques to visualize the internal structures of animals for diagnostic purposes. These techniques include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans. AI can be used to analyze these images and assist veterinarians in making more efficient and accurate diagnoses.

One way AI is used in medical imaging is through computer-aided diagnosis. Theses systems use machine learning algorithms to analyze medical images and identify potential abnormalities. These systems can help veterinarians detect early signs of disease or injury that may not be visible to the naked eye. For example, a CAD system can analyze an X-ray image of a dog’s chest and identify small lung nodules that may be indicative of cancer.

AI can also be used to assist in the interpretation of more complex imaging studies such as CT and MRI scans. These studies generate large amounts of data that can be time-consuming for veterinarians to analyze manually. AI algorithms can be trained to identify specific structures within these images and provide automated measurements, such as the size of a tumor or the volume of a specific organ. This can save veterinarians time and improve the accuracy of their diagnoses.

AI can also be used to improve the quality of medical images. For example, AI algorithms can be used to reduce image noise and improve image resolution. This can result in clearer images that are easier to interpret, which can lead to more accurate diagnoses.

Since the founding of Med Dimensions, our solutions have been powered by AI and developing self-sufficient technologies for the benefit of veterinarians. Every pre-operative model, surgical cutting guide, and educational phantom that Med Dimensions produces is influenced by an AI system that is getting smarter with each project we complete!

Overall, the use of AI in veterinary medicine is rapidly evolving, and medical imaging is an area where AI can be particularly useful. By analyzing medical images and assisting veterinarians in making more accurate diagnoses, AI has the potential to improve animal health outcomes and save lives. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more applications of AI in veterinary medicine in the future.

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Triple Layer Suturing Pad Product Release

How do you place an ET when you can barely see the epiglottis? It’s not a rhetorical question; you practice!

Med Dimensions is proud to offer 2 versions of high quality suturing pads for the
teaching and learning of surgical suturing and knot tying: MD-E-0033C (3 slit) and
MD-E-0053C (5 slit). Minimum ordering quantity is five (5) units.

For anyone looking to practice intubation on a mesocephalic dog, our clinician designed and validated airway trainer has a hingeable jaw, hard teeth, soft and stretchy tongue, intact nasal cavity, and  soft epiglottis. These models can be used to place an NG tube and has exits for both trachea and epiglotis to show if the ET and NG tubes have been placed correctly.


Product Overview
This product comes in 2 versions: MD-E-0033C and MD-E-0053C.
MD-E-0033C is a triple layer suturing pad, replicating the epidermis, dermis, and
subcutaneous layers with three (3) 100 mm slits for a student to hone their
suturing skills.
MD-E-0053C is a triple layer suturing pad, replicating the epidermis, dermis, and
subcutaneous layers with five (5) slits of varying lengths for a student to hone
their suturing skills.


Key Features & Benefits
Made from a proprietary blend of silicones, these pads provide tactile simulation
similar to real anatomy, and layers are denoted with different colors. These
suturing pads have an embedded mesh to simulate the “pop feeling” associated
with suturing. Each pad arrives in a hard plastic case with non-slip feet to
increase the longevity of the pad. Additionally, the size of the pad is conveniently
low profile, so anyone can easily fit the pad in a backpack or other small bag.

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Canine Arthroscopy Trainer Product Release

Med Dimensions is proud to offer a canine arthroscopy stifle, MD-E-2000AR, with replaceable stifle joints and skin, MD-E-2000AR-1, now available for purchase.

Product Overview

MD-E-2000AR is a training model for teaching and learning arthroscopic procedures and analyzing different pathologies in a stifle, and to replace the use of cadavers in arthroscopy training. It is derived from a CT scan of the left hind limb of a medium sized dog. The model includes the LCL, MCL, Meniscus, Patellar Tendon, tendon of long digital extensor, patella, and fat pad in a replaceable sealed capsule that can be used with fluid.

Key Features & Benefits

Users are able to use all forms of arthroscopic equipment, without damaging the model more than a real stifle. The ability to practice realistic arthroscopy without the need of cadavers. The femur and tibia are 3D printed in resin to increase longevity, and is anchored to a based at the proximal end of the femur. The joint space can show different diseases/pathological issues, meniscal tears, OCD, CCL tears, and more.

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Standard Feline Intubation Trainers Product Release

Med Dimensions is proud to offer a standard feline intubation trainer, MD-E-0002SF, and a standard feline intubation trainer with an NG patch, MD-E-0022SF, now available for purchase

Product Overview

MD-E-0002SF is a model of a cat head, derived from a CT scan with a nasal cavity, teeth, epiglottis, and pharynx. It has user serviceable replacement jaws and tongue, and has calico cat coloring.

MD-E-0022SF is a model including all of the above, with the addition of a user serviceable replacement nose patch to hold suture for NG tube placement.

Key Features & Benefits

This model has a flexible jaw to allow for practice opening the mouth, and removable teeth. The tongue is textured, with clinician validated elasticity, with anatomically accurate landmarks. This model is threaded to fit any standard tripod, or be free standing. Additional custom options include: ability to be split in half for educational purposes, adjustable suction cup mount.

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Med Dimensions Garners “Pet Start Up of the Year” Award In 2022 Pet Independent Innovation Awards Program

Annual Awards Program Recognizes Top Companies, Services and Products Within the Global Pet Industry

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Featured: Innovative Minds in Vet Med- Megan Sprinkle

Med Dimensions sits down with Dr. Megan Sprinkle, veterinarian and host of the Vet Life Reimagined Podcast.

When did you know you were going to be a veterinarian? I’m one of those veterinarians who loved animals from a very young age and dreamed of working with them. I wanted to be the Jane Goodall of dolphins. My father told my mother, “let her swim with the dolphins once and get it out of her system.” Each animal experience fueled my interest and curiosity, so I did not “get it out” so to say. 🙂 

What challenges have you been able to overcome in your career? 

Probably like most people, there have been many challenges along my career journey. From the very beginning, I had school counselors try to deter me from veterinary medicine, especially working with exotic animals. I had to be proactive in seeking experiences, staying curious, asking questions, finding mentorship even in small doses. One challenge was understanding that it’s okay to evolve my interests and explore new things. When I hit challenges in zoo medicine, I explored other interests and found that I really enjoyed different paths in veterinary medicine like small animal nutrition. Another challenge I’ve run across multiple times is avoiding the narrow perception of “veterinarian” from others. A veterinarian can do so many things and still be a veterinarian. Don’t let someone’s lack of knowledge define how you live out your veterinary life!

You’re the host of an awesome podcast- tell us about how that started and how you see it progressing in the future? 

While I wasn’t the earliest adopter of podcasts, I’ve been a podcast enthusiast since before 2020. I dreamed of starting my own podcast and started studying how to do it. Hopefully, my previous answers have shown my passion for career pathing and being creative and curious in the field. Also being a veterinarian in industry, I have many veterinary professionals ask me about other career options outside of clinics. The microphone that my sweet husband gave me shows up in Zoom calls, so I had a group whom I was teaching ask me about the “fancy” microphone. I said I was trying to start a podcast and told them my idea for a podcast that demonstrates all the different things people could do in the veterinary profession. I was met with such enthusiasm that it was the exact encouragement I needed to get started. 

You have a connection to 3D printing. How did you get involved in that and how do you see that platform growing? 

Back in 2019, a coworker convinced my husband to get a 3D printer. Mike’s natural figure-it-out skills had him quickly learning the art of 3D printing. In fact, our wedding decor, including cupcake toppers, were 3D printed by him using a single Monoprice mini 3D printer. He loved how it could be an outlet for creativity used both for fun and functional items. About a year later, Mike hit a huge wall of burn out from his IT career. Interestingly, one of the specific feelings he voiced was a loss of “creativity”. We sat and discussed how he could do more of what helped him feel creative and joyful. I believe that helping others is a great way to find gratitude and joy. Mike mentioned that he saw a lot of 3D printers put up for sale on Facebook Marketplace with descriptions like “Barely used; I couldn’t figure it out.” or “didn’t have time to learn it.” This frustrated Mike because he enjoyed 3D printing so much and believed people could learn with a little guidance. So, we started making YouTube videos to teach people how to 3D print. When I was convinced to go to the Veterinary Innovation Summit in August of 2021, I saw a booth for 3D printing, I was excited to find something that combined my veterinary background and 3D printing, which I had seen bring so much joy to my husband. It’s exciting when two worlds of joy meet – all striving to help people and animals. 

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

Mike and I recently moved to Savannah, so right now spare time is unpacking boxes, but I wanted to move to Savannah to be closer to the ocean, so I hope to spend more time walking the beach. I’m an avid learner, so I’m usually listening to podcasts and reading in every moment of spare time. I also feel the benefits of fitness, so I incorporate exercise daily into my morning routine. Some of my favorites are kickboxing and jogging on the treadmill with some fun music blasting in my headphones.  

Do you have a favorite animal you like to work with or is it too difficult to choose? 

One of my favorite veterinary moments was working with elephants in Zambia with the Elephant Orphanage Project. Spending large amounts of time with these animals, especially as babies was very rewarding. I admire their playful curiosity and the way they work together and care for each other. Hopefully, I will be able to spend time with elephants again in the future. 

Listen to the Vet Life Reimagined Podcast wherever podcasts are found, or view on YouTube here.

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Featured: Innovative Minds in Veterinary Medicine- Alyssa Mages

Med Dimensions sits down for a conversation with Alyssa Mages, Chief Visionary Officer at Empowering Veterinary Teams.

  1. When did you know you wanted to get into veterinary medicine and helping animals? What sparked the interest?

I didn’t think of myself as always wanting to work with animals- but I’ve realized, through similar conversations like this that I in fact, did! Growing up we always had a fish tank, then we added a guinea pig, a turtle, a parakeet, and the house was never without a cat – no dogs, my dad was allergic – and then I fell in love with the ocean. We had a cottage on Cape Cod that we rented yearly and after my 1st whale watch when I was 4, I was hooked. I finished my degree in marine biology and moved to the Florida Keys where I taught marine biology, swam/scuba’d with sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, pilot whales, and a whole host of other marine creatures – HEAVEN! But I soon realized that I wanted to do more FOR them. The original plan was to be a marine veterinarian, but my professional path detoured and pivoted several times. I couldn’t be happier with where I’ve landed.

  1. In addition to being a rockstar vet tech, you’re also a business owner. What’s the best way to describe what EVT does?

You’re too kind! I’ve been a CVT since 2012, but in the veterinary profession since 2004. Over the years I saw & experienced firsthand what it was like to have a structured & supportive training program, and when it wasn’t there, I wasn’t the only one who could feel its lack.

EVT was founded to ensure that every member of the veterinary support team – CSR, assistant, veterinary technician – has the tools, knowledge and guidance to ensure that they not only do what they love, they love what they do. We cannot empower anyone, but we can provide the tools, programs and ultimately the skills for them to empower themselves. We focus primarily on crafting custom training programs for veterinary practices that ensure a standardized, streamlined approach to growth and development so that team members have a clear understanding of what they can do and how they can do it. This not only supports the individuals, but the practice, and ultimately our profession as a whole.

  1. How do you marry the role of vet tech and serial entrepreneur? In other words, how are you making sure that the labs and other educational pieces you provide are helping vet techs?

I don’t see these two roles in opposition- on the contrary, a veterinary technician is inherently an innovative individual. We must be in order to make things work in sometimes less than ideal situations! To ensure that the work I do now, being more on the outside of clinical practice, stays relevant is by keeping involved. Through mentorship, state VMA participation, and continuously seeking the latest and greatest procedures and methodologies, I keep myself and my team up to date and engaged. I also reach out to the other innovators in our field and see what they are up to, how we can help and/or enhance the work that we’re both doing. No more competition, we’ve gotta collaborate to ensure the veterinary industry doesn’t just survive, it thrives.

  1. What do you see as the future of veterinary medicine for vet techs?

I see them AS the future of veterinary medicine. Can anyone really picture a functional and healthy practice, or an evolved industry provider, or an academic institution without these individuals? I cannot, they’re vital & integral to the overall success of the profession. And for them to fulfill this, we must ensure that the longevity of their roles within veterinary medicine continue to evolve, expand, and be inclusive for ALL peoples. Embrace the changes – telemedicine, integrative approaches, and so on – and then be a part of making it happen. 

  1. When you’re giving a presentation to other vet techs, or teaching a lab that you put together, what is the feeling inside of you?

I live for the “A-HA!” moments, and being able to see that happen live is absolutely incredible. I love to learn new things & to be able to take that and pass it forward to someone else is the greatest gift.

  1. How did you get where you are today?

With a lot of love and support from my family and friends, and never giving up. I’m very fortunate to have a partner that is incredibly supportive, children that cheer me on, parents that pushed me from a young age and continue to be my guides, and an amazing group of friends that are always in my corner. The never giving up part doesn’t mean that I haven’t been discouraged or hit some dead-ends – I have and have the bruises to show for it! But I’ve always had this desire to do more, be more, and make a difference in this world and I strive to do that every day.  

  1. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? (if you have any!)

I try hard to make sure I do! I’m a singer/songwriter – sing in a Tom Petty tribute band (lead/backup vocals, flute and percussion) and do some open-mic nights with a buddy of mine, love it. And when the weather cooperates I’m out with my kiddos on a hike, taking the SUP out, and just generally soaking up nature whenever I/we can.

Follow Alyssa Mages on LinkedIn here.

Follow Empowering Veterinary Teams on LinkedIn here.

Visit Empowering Veterinary Teams’ website here.

Follow Med Dimensions on LinkedIn here.

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