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Turks & Caicos

How I manage common abdominal problems.

December 4–6, 2022


Alyssa Sullivant, DVM, M.S.

Diplomate, ACVIM
Assistant Professor, Small Animal Medicine
College of Veterinary Medicine
Mississippi State University

 

Gary Oswald D.V.M.

Diplomate, ACVIM 
Tampa Bay Medical Consultants
Tampa Bay, FL

Click here for current Turks and Caicos entry requirements

 


Speakers & Topics

  • Infectious Causes of GI Disease

  • Inflammatory Causes of GI Disease

  • Protein-Losing Enteropathies: Diagnosis and Management 

  • Beyond Immunosuppression: Treatment Options for the GI patient

  • Inflammatory VS Infectious Hepatic Diseases 

  • Practical Enteral Feeding 

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) – you can’t treat it if you don’t diagnose it !

    • What is the preferred means of diagnosing CKD? Serum creatinine? SDMA? Proteinuria? RenalTech? 
    • How should urine protein screening be used in practice? Which test is preferred – dipstick, urine protein:creatinine determination or microalbuminuria?
    • Is it actually important to obtain and monitor systemic blood pressure in renal patients? 
    • Does a renal tissue biopsy have any clinical relevance to me in general practice?
    • Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-inhibitors & Angiotensin Receptor-blockers- what’s the difference and which is better to reduce blood pressure and and urine protein loss?
    • Amlodipine- isn’t this the drug for hypertension? When should it be used? 
    • When should a prescription renal diet be started in CKD patients? 
    • Bone Mineral Derangements in CKD – how should vitamin D, calcium and PTH be addressed?
    • Hyperphosphatemia control – this dog/cat doesn’t like oral phosphorus binders – how important is this and what are my options? 
    • Appropriate use of erythropoeitin analogs in anemic CKD patients. 
    • Appropriate use of fluid therapy, antiemetics, antacids, appetite stimulants and esophagostomy tubes in hyporexic CKD patients. 

    Urinary Tract Infection – successful treatment doesn’t always involve the biggest antibiotic !

    • What is the difference between a sporadic UTI and a recurrent UTI?
    • Honestly, which antibiotic(s) should be used in UTI patients? 
    • How long should antibiotic therapy be administered in sporadic UTI? 
    • What should I do when sporadic UTIs don’t respond?
    • What predisposing disorders should I look for in patients with recurrent UTI?  
    • How should I select an appropriate antibiotic in recurrent UTI patients? 
    • What follow-up testing is recommended to determine treatment success? 
    • What is “asymptomatic” bacteruria and why is it important? 
    • What are common causes and how can I prevent recurrent UTI development? 
    • Is oral cranberry supplement effective? What about other drugs or supplements? 
    • Does improving vulvar and vaginal health help reduce female UTIs?  
    • Why consider phenylpropanolamine treatment in UTI patients?
    • Feline bacterial UTIs – is the approach different compared to dogs? 
    • Special considerations – pyelonephritis, prostatitis, catheter-associated UTI?

    Lower Urinary Tract Disorders – to pee or not to pee, that is really the question. 

    • Feline Interstitial Cystitis – is it a struvite-related or stress-related disease?
    • Is prescription diet therapy necessary in FIC patients?
    • Is stress reduction therapy beneficial in FIC patients? 
    • Is it critical to unobstruct first or should I consider getting a bit more information?
    • Why a local nerve block should be considered in obstructed FIC males?
    • Is bladder decompression helpful or harmful?
    • To avoid PU surgery, which treatments work best in obstructed FIC patients?
    • Is urinary bladder lavage helpful?
    • Is there a role for glycosaminoglycans installation in FIC patients?
    • Which drug(s) provides the optimal urethral relaxation?
    • Which drug(s) is best at reducing urinary bladder spasms?
    • Which drug(s) is best at increasing urinary bladder contraction?
    • How to use phenylpropanolamine in urinary incontinence management
    • How to use estrogen compounds in urinary incontinence management.
    • When to consider collagen bulking agent therapy in urinary incontinence.
    • When to consider surgical treatment in urinary incontinence management.
    • What do I really need to know about medical management of uroliths. Location, location, location
    • How to successfully dissolve struvite stones?
    • Struvite stones can be dissolved but how do I get rid of those pesky Calcium Oxalate stones ?  
    • Ammonium urate stones – never thought I’d see that in a non-Dalmation breed.
    • How to easily (and non-invasively) diagnosis uroepithelial carcinoma?

Schedule

Registration Sunday Dec. 4, 2022 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Welcome Reception Sunday Dec. 4, 2022 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Lectures Sunday Dec 4 1:30pm – 6:30pm
Monday Dec 5 8:00am – 1:30pm
Tuesday Dec. 6 1:00pm – 6:30pm

Accommodations

The Sands at Grace Bay

The Sands at Grace Bay

The Sands at Grace Bay couldn’t be in a better location in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This gracious six-acre four-star resort is situated on famous Grace Bay Beach, a 12-mile expanse of white powder sand considered to be one of the best beaches in all of the Caribbean. The beauty of the beach and its companion turquoise clear water is complimented by the resort’s lush garden courtyard with three free-form swimming pools. The pools are adorned by a cascading waterfall, a relaxing Jacuzzi and small grottoes. An additional circular swimming pool is beachside. Guests take in the sun while relaxing on chaise lounges and stay cool under oversized canvas umbrellas. Fresh terry cloth pool towels are made available for guests’ daily use during their stay.

  • Hemingway’s Restaurant & Bar – oceanfront location serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Beach & pool cocktail service
  • Tour & excursion desk
  • Concierge service for car rental, taxi and all other reservations you may require
  • On-site dive shop by “Caico’s Adventures”
  • 18-hole championship golf course – less than five minute drive
  • 3 swimming pools with waterfall connected via canals
  • Outdoor in-ground jacuzzi
  • On site massage therapy and spa treatments by Spa Tropique
  • Fully air-conditioned fitness center
  • Convenience store
  • Hospitality center
  • Jewelry shop
  • Tennis court
  • Coconut grove with hammocks

Junior suite Gardenview

Maximum Occupancy is two (2).
Master bedroom with King sized bed and full bathroom, sitting area, a view of the garden, with private screened balcony.

Junior suite  Oceanview

Maximum Occupancy is two (2).
Master bedroom with King or Queen sized bed, full bathroom, private screened balcony with oceanview.

Price:  Group rooms are sold out. Please contact our office at 800-487-5650 for current availability. Seminar registration is still available.

Resort Rates: 

  • Junior suite Gardenview: $ dbl/night
  • Junior suite Oceanview: $ dbl/night
  • One Bedroom suite gardenview: $ dbl/night
  • One bedroom oceanview suite: $ dbl.night -based on availability only. Please call 800-487-5650

There is a 3 night deposit required on all reservations as this is the popular season.

Plus 12% tax, 5% facility fee and 10% service charge, which includes bellman, maid, parking, internet and access to fitness center.

More than 2 people?  One, two & three bedroom suites with a variety of views also available upon request. Extra person charge is $54 per day

Terms:

Deposits:

A 3 night deposit will be due at the time of booking.

Cancellations:

No penalty for cancellations made prior to 60 to arrival.

Cancellations made 60-30 days prior, deposit is forfeit.

Cancellations made 30-0 days prior will be charged for the complete scheduled stay. No-shows and early departures will also be charged for the complete scheduled stay.

We highly suggest purchasing travel insurance.  Please call IVS for a quote


Things To Do

Providenciales, or more commonly known as “Provo”, covers an area of 38 miles and is the most developed island in Turks and Caicos. It is here where most international flights arrive at the Providenciales International Airport (PLS). Surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, Provo has been ranked “Best Beach” by Conde’ Nast magazine and by the World Travel Awards for several years running. Found on the western end of the island chain, Provo offers all modern conveniences, including luxurious hotels, villas and condos, numerous restaurants, spas and shopping facilities, a championship caliber golf course, and full service grocery store. Although Provo is the most developed of the islands, it is still a destination for those who want to escape their busy schedules and relax.

On the north shore of the island, near Grace Bay, you will find the most beautiful beaches, as well as a long coral reef, which is rich in aquatic life. This main stretch is home to the majority of the island major resorts and tourism services.

Towards the south of the island you will find Chalk Sound, a large lake with striking turquoise water and an array of small cays. Islands Magazine described Chalk Sound as “Beneath the radar: Untouched and off the beaten path, the pristine islets in Provo’s Chalk Sound provide an ideal backdrop for expansive thoughts.” Along the south side of the island in areas such as Sapodilla Bay, Copper Jack, Discovery Bay, Turtle Tail and Long Bay you will find many private villas available for rent. The island’s commercial port, South Dock, is found east of Sapodilla Bay and has the capability to deal with containerized goods.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

The Turks and Caicos Islands are surrounded by one of the most extensive coral reef systems worldwide (65 miles across and 200 miles long). As a result, the islands are consistently ranked as one of the premier diving locations in the world.

Enjoy open air dining of the daily fresh catch in a casual, relaxing atmosphere at a variety of inviting, restaurants.

Excellent visibility (up to 200 feet), pristine reefs, abundant tropical flora and fauna, fish and other marine life, quality diving services and easy conditions make the Turks and Caicos Islands a world class diving destination. There is exceptional wall diving starting in shallow turquoise water and dropping off into the deep blue giving a real thrill. The reef is relatively close to the beach, which makes for accessible beach dives. Shipwrecks, old and new further increase the multiplicity of the islands as an outstanding diving destination.

Enjoy a variety of fishing charters offered in the area, including sport fishing, deep sea, reef, bonefish, fly fishing and.

A great way to experience The Turks and Caicos Islands is through fun tour adventures, such as fishing, snorkeling, island hopping, boat charters, private excursions, eco-tours, site-seeing, exotic and more.

For some nightlife fun in the Turks & Caico Islands check out the casinos, gaming lounges, dance bars, and sports bar.


Need To Know

Registration

Online registration is easy and fast. But please confirm your hotel reservations prior to completing your registration or booking flights. Many Hotels are selling out many months ahead of our seminars. If you need to book a hotel room, click the link to the online hotel registration page.  If none is available for your selected seminar, please fill out our hotel request form or contact our office at 800-487-5650.  Please note that hotel rooms are not confirmed until you receive confirmation from the hotel (if you booked online thru our group link) or from our office for hotels that do not offer the online link.

IVS is now required by AAVSB RACE to upload your completed attendance into their “RACEtrack” system. Your state of license and your license number are required for all seminars starting in January 2022. More information is available at https://www.aavsb.org/ce-services/racetrack

Early Bird:  $1015.00

Register by:  October 21, 2022

Advanced:  $1035.00

Register by:  November 2, 2022

Regular:  $1055.00

Register after:  November 2, 2022

Special Pricing:

Veterinary Technicians receive an $80 discount using promo code “techsaver”. Enter the code during checkout in the  submit promotion code box.

For International Travel

Passport requirements for international travel

Please note that all passengers traveling by air to or from the United States will be required to hold a valid passport. This requirement applies to all passengers, including U.S. citizens, traveling to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

When planning international travel, please be sure that you are in possession of all required documents for both outbound and return flights. Remember to allow ample time for acquiring official travel documents.

For complete information on the U.S. Department of State’s New Travel Initiative Requirements, please visit travel.state.gov.

Pricing

Deposits:

A 3 night deposit will be due at the time of booking.

Cancellations:

No penalty for cancellations made prior to 60 to arrival.

Cancellations made 60-30 days prior, deposit is forfeit.

Cancellations made 30-0 days prior will be charged for the complete scheduled stay. No-shows and early departures will also be charged for the complete scheduled stay.

We highly suggest purchasing travel insurance.  Please call IVS for a quote

Global Vet Community Meets CE Experiences

IVS trips are designed to meet your CE requirements while offering a break from traditional, conference-style learning. With focused half-day sessions, small-group learning, and destinations worth the journey, IVS creates close-knit communities where education feels both engaging and rewarding.

Earn Your CE Credits

IVS makes it easy — and worth the trip — to keep your CE hours current. Each trip includes 12–18 CE credit hours, along with access to a dedicated portal where certificates and trip details are easy to find when you need them.

Explore the World

Choose from 50+ destinations worldwide, including classic travel locations and Bio Bio adventure trips. No matter the setting, IVS seminars are structured to support focused learning in an environment that feels immersive — not overwhelming.

Connect With Your Community

IVS brings together veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and leading specialists in intentionally small groups. Designed for shared experience and meaningful discussion, these seminars foster professional connections that last well beyond your trip.

Get More from Every Trip

With points earned for every trip you attend, bonuses for referring friends, and a convenient user portal for tracking and seminar details, IVS makes earning your CE credits even more rewarding.

Postcards from Our Trips

From close to home to destinations abroad, hear what veterinary professionals are saying about their IVS experience.

Cecile Shafer, DVM
Monterey, CA

The speakers were excellent, as were the accommodations. I love coming to IVS Seminars.”

Cecile Shafer, DVM

Redwood Veterinary Hospital, Visalia, CA

Shira Anchill, DVM
Santa Fe, NM

I enjoyed this conference VERY much! The speakers were engaging and superb. I had a surgery day this past Tuesday and have implemented several of their pearls of knowledge!”

Shira Anchill, DVM

Union Lake Veterinary Hospital, Waterford Township, MI

Patti Klein, DVM
Galápagos Islands

The trip was just perfect! My husband and I loved every minute.”

Patti Klein, DVM

Pet Care In Motion, Woodstock, IL

Katharyn Kryda, DVM
Savannah, GA

Thank you for a great conference! This was my first IVS experience, and it was great. … I’m hoping to arrange a trip for my vet school friends (11 of us total) in the future.”

Katharyn Kryda, DVM

District Locum, Washington DC

Mike Dixon, DVM
Key West, FL

I enjoyed the seminar. IVS [is] still the best CE in my opinion. Great venue also.”

Mike Dixon, DVM

Flint Veterinary Clinic, Tyler, TX

Ed Fallin, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Thank you for putting on a fantastic program in Cabo!”

Ed Fallin, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine)

Veterinary Referral & Critical Care, Manakin-Sabot, VA

Carmen Lindheimer, MS, DVM
Lake Tahoe

Thank you. I always enjoy the CE experience IVS provides.”

Carmen Lindheimer, MS, DVM

MedVet, Asheville, NC

Good to Know Before You Go

Registration is simple. Browse upcoming seminars using the search on our homepage, then click through to the seminar page and complete registration online. You will receive an email confirmation once your registration is complete, and a separate email confirming your payment. Please keep both for your records. You can also call our office at 1-800-487-5650 to register by phone.

IVS holds group space at each seminar venue and handles hotel bookings on your behalf. You can book accommodations at the same time as your seminar registration or separately — whichever you prefer.

On your selected seminar’s page, click the Accommodations tab and scroll down to the Book Accommodations button. Please note: if you need a room outside the standard seminar dates, availability will need to be confirmed with the hotel. Hotel bookings made through our site are not automatic and require some processing time. Once confirmed, you will receive a hotel confirmation letter from IVS by email. All hotels require a credit card to guarantee your booking, and cut-off dates apply — early registration is always advised. Our team is available at 1-800-487-5650, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm PST.

10% of the registration fee is non-refundable. If you cancel more than 30 days before the seminar start date, you may choose a refund of the remaining 90% or a Future Transfer Credit (FTC). If you cancel within 30 days, only a Future Transfer Credit is issued. The FTC can be applied to any future IVS seminar within 2 years of your cancellation date; it is forfeited if not used within that window. To cancel, you must contact our office and receive email confirmation of your cancellation before the seminar begins. Cancellations requested after the seminar has started, or without email confirmation on file, will forfeit the full registration fee. Please also note that cancellations will remove any Loyalty Program points earned from that registration.

IVS specializes in small group seminars — usually fewer than 80 people per seminar. Most veterinarians appreciate the smaller setting, as it allows for more interaction with speakers and other participants and gives everyone a chance to get their questions answered.

International Veterinary Seminars is an AAVSB RACE-approved provider of CE, which is accepted by all state boards throughout the US and Canada. We are provider #13 and are also an approved provider in New York State. Please contact your state board or our office with any questions. For more information, visit the AAVSB RACE program website.

Where will your learning take you?

Discover a different way to earn your veterinary CE. Explore upcoming trips to find an IVS seminar set in a destination you’ll want to stay awhile.