Managing common medical problems in practice
June 20–27, 2025
Ellen Behrend V.M.D., Ph.D.
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Joezy Griffin Professor emerita
Department of Clinical Sciences
Auburn University
Gary Oswald D.V.M.
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Tampa Bay Veterinary Consultants
Oldsmar, FL
This combination of two internationally recognized Internists will provide you with a practical approach to the management of many common medical problems that you encounter in your daily practice. You are sure to come away with some very helpful tips!
Speakers & Topics
Endocrine
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Feline diabetes: what are SGLT2 inhibitors and how to use them
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Diabetes mellitus: management issues
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Diagnosing canine hyperadrenocorticism: a case-based approach
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Feline hyperthyroidism: finding it and helping your patients live longer
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Canine hypoadrenocorticism: unmasking and treating the great pretender
Cardiac disease
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Updates on the “The Big Three that You See” : Canine Mitral Valve Disease, Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Feline Cardiomyopathy.
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Heart murmurs – when are they helpful and when can they mislead ?
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How can I use radiography, cardiac biomarkers and focused echocardiography in my patients ?
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This asymptomatic dog has a murmur. How should I approach this case and is it time to start treatment ?
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Treatment considerations in canine mitral valve disease vs dilated cardiomyopathy.
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What is the best approach for treating subclinical cardiomyopathy and CHF cats?
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What are the preferred thromboprophylaxis treatments in feline cardiomyopathy patients ?
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What is the role of diet in subclinical heart disease and CHF ?
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When to initiate and how to dose pimobendan in dogs and cats.
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Appropriate use of angiotensin and aldosterone – ACE-inhibitors or Aldosterone antagonists in heart disease.
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Loop diuretic therapy in CHF – furosemide of torsemide?
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What role does spironolactone play in CHF patients?
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Use of Viagra (sildenafil) in canine heart disease.
Chronic Kidney Disease
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Has creatinine, SDMA, FGF-23, proteinuria, Cystatin B or AI become the preferred test for CKD?
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Should quantitative urine protein values be routinely determined when annually screening geriatric patients?
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When should renal biopsy and/or SDS-Page be considered?
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Should immunosuppressive therapy be considered in CKD ?
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Is blood pressure determination really that important in renal patients?
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Which antihypertensive treatment is preferred in CKD – amlodipine, ACE-Is or ARBs?
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When should a therapeutic renal diet be started in CKD patients?
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This dog/cat doesn’t like oral phosphorus binders. How important is this drug?
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Is it just an “Ohio State thing” or are vitamin D, calcium and PTH important in CKD?
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Appropriate use of erythropoeitin analogs in anemic CKD patients.
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Appropriate use of fluid therapy and appetite stimulants in hyporexic CKD patients.
Schedule
Schedule subject to change: please check onboard during the actual sailing for the latest schedule.
| Friday June 20 | Seattle | Depart: 4.00pm |
| Saturday June 21 | At Sea | |
| Seminars | 8:00am – 1:00pm | |
| Sunday June 22 | Ketchikan | Arrive: 7:00am Depart: 4:00pm |
| Monday June 23 | Endicott Arm | Arrive: 5:30am Depart: 10:00am |
| Juneau | Arrive: 1:30pm Depart: 10:00pm |
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| Tuesday, June 24 | Skagway | Arrive: 7:00am Depart: 6:00pm |
| Inside Passage | Arrive: 6:30pm Depart: 10:30pm |
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| Wednesday June 25 | At Sea | |
| Seminars | 8:00am – 1:00pm | |
| Thursday June 26 | Victoria | Arrive: 5:30pm Depart: 11.59pm |
| Seminars | 8:00am – 1:00pm | |
| Friday June 27 | Seattle | Arrive: 6:00am |
Accommodations
Celebrity Edge marks a turning point in our approach to ship design. From the very first sketches to experiencing those designs in a virtual reality setting, every step was done in 3-D. From the incredible new Magic Carpet to the private plunge pools in our new 2-story Edge Villas, we could design the most refined ship at sea. The unique outward facing design breaks from traditional ship design. Aboard, you’ll feel more connected with the sea and the places you’ll visit in a variety of spaces ranging from our Edge Staterooms with Infinite VerandasSM, to our reimagined, terraced pool deck that offers even greater views of the destinations and shimmer of ocean.
If only life on land was as good as life on Celebrity Edge.
Price:
Please note that to register for this seminar you must reserve your cabin thru our travel company. We request this as it allows us to provide you with quality, practical CE while you cruise to Alaska.
With the constantly changing pricing associated with cruising, please contact our office for the latest prices.
Here are some current examples based on two per room:
Rates include Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses.
Also now, these cruise rates include Classic Beverage Package and Basic Wifi Package & Wi-Fi.
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SS sky suite $5334.51 per person
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A1 aqua class $3053.01 per person
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C1 concierge $2903.01 per person
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C2 concierge $2853.01 per person
- ES Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda $4449.51 for the solo traveler.
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E2 Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda $2749.51 per person
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D1 inside $1949.51 per person
Please call IVS for pricing & booking. (800) 487-5650
Terms
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What is not included:
Air transportation; transfers to and from the ship in Seattle; items of a personal nature, such as shore excursions, specialty restaurant fees, some beverages, photographs, medical services, seminar registration.
Also gratuities are not included but can be prepaid.
Bus transfers to and from the ship (connecting to and from Seattle International Airport) can also be purchased from Celebrity- just ask the IVS office.
Payment Schedule:$250 DEPOSIT PER PERSON AT TIME OF BOOKING. FINAL PAYMENT IS ON APRIL 3, 2025
CANCELLATION POLICY:
74-57 days prior to sailing- you will lose your deposit of $250.00 per person
56-29 days prior to sailing – you will lose 50% of cruise fare
28-15 days prior to sailing – you will lose 75% of cruise fare
14- 0 days prior to sailing- there is no refund.
We recommend Travel insurance which can be purchase through our office.
Room Description
Visit Celebrity Edge staterooms
Suites:
Celebrity Cruises® suite accommodations set the standard for modern luxury. Unparalleled comfort and convenience come standard, as well as exceptional amenities and exclusive onboard experiences. From personal butler service to private restaurants and lounges, this is what it means to live The Suite Life.
Aqua:
The ultimate in spa-inspired experiences, these staterooms are designed to indulge at every turn. From the Infinite VerandaSM that takes the whole room right to the water’s edge to Blu, the exclusive restaurant featuring favorite dishes reimagined with a healthier twist.
Nestled close to the spa, you have unlimited, complimentary access to The Sea Thermal Suite, along with a dedicated Spa Concierge who’ll be happy to make reservations for you—or create a whole spa regimen for you to follow during your cruise. During your cruise, delight in a variety of spa-inspired stateroom touches, including: the Bossini shower panel, aromatherapy diffusers, pillow menus, daily deliveries of flavored tea and fresh fruit upon request
Concierge Class:
A dedicated concierge is always just steps away from your room to assist with your vacation needs. Attend exclusive events, including a Welcome Aboard Luncheon and Destination Seminar. Then there’s the room, the Infinite VerandaSM takes the whole room right to the water’s edge. Here, you’ll find it’s little details so meticulously thought out that they truly make a world of difference. It’s a room that’s so much more than a room—it’s an experience.
Infinite Verandas:
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge. These staterooms feature the latest in design and technology, and they’re 23% larger than our award-winning Solstice® Class veranda staterooms.
178 possible options of connecting staterooms make it easier than ever for families and friends to connect at sea. Combine two adjoining Edge Staterooms with Infinite VerandasSM to become one. Or connect the Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite VerandaSM, with a Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom, to create the perfect space for an accompanying grandparent, nanny, or in-law.
Another modern luxury first for us, 99% of the staterooms on Celebrity Edge have a king-sized bed, featuring the Celebrity eXhale™ bedding and the Cashmere Mattress.
Inside Staterooms:
Edge Class staterooms were designed with the modern traveler in mind. With amenities including Smart TV, 24 hour room service, and our Celebrity’s eXhale™ bedding featuring the Cashmere Mattress, rest assured you will wake up recharged and prepared for whatever adventures the next day may bring.
Things To Do
Shore excursions
Make your cruise even more personal by purchasing Shore and Land Excursions. In order to reserve excursions online, make sure you have made at least one payment towards your cruise. Please call 1-800-487-5650 for your reservation number
The Ship
Cruise itinerary- subject to change
JUNE 20 SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 4:00pm
JUNE 21 AT SEA
JUNE 22 KETCHIKAN, ALASKA 7:00a – 4:00p
JUNE 23 ENDICOTT ARM FJORD 5:30a – 10:00a
JUNE 23 JUNEAU, ALASKA 1:30p – 10:00p
JUNE 24 SKAGWAY, ALASKA 7:00a – 6:00p
JUNE 24 ALASKA INSIDE PASSAGE 6:30P – 10:30P
JUNE 25 AT SEA
JUNE 26 VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA 5:30p -11:59p
JUNE 27 SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 6:00a
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-
Early Bird: $1135.00
Advanced: $1155.00
Regular: $1175.00
We have closed the online method of seminar registration.
Please note that registration is open and there is room on the ship but to register you must reserve your cabin thru our travel company- please call 800-487-5650. We ask that you do this as it allows us to provide quality, practical CE on the cruise.
Veterinary technicians are welcome- there is an $80 seminar registration discount
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
74-57 days prior to sailing- you will lose your deposit of $250.00 per person
56-29 days prior to sailing – you will lose 50% of cruise fare
28-15 days prior to sailing – you will lose 75% of cruise fare
14- 0 days prior to sailing- there is no refund.
We recommend Travel insurance which can be purchase through our office.
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.
The speakers were excellent, as were the accommodations. I love coming to IVS Seminars.”
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!”
The trip was just perfect! My husband and I loved every minute.”
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.”
I enjoyed the seminar. IVS [is] still the best CE in my opinion. Great venue also.”
Thank you for putting on a fantastic program in Cabo!”
Thank you. I always enjoy the CE experience IVS provides.”
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.