Programs & News

Chantal Faraudo, CVT, CVPP OVMA Board Director- Continuing Education In June 2025, the Oregon Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association (OVTAA) proudly marks its 20th anniversary, a testament to two decades of dedication to advancing the veterinary technology profession and fostering exceptional animal care across the state. Founded in 2005, the first state association representing veterinary technicians and assistants, the OVTAA has grown into a vital force, representing veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers and support staff, who are the backbone of Oregon’s veterinary community. I vividly remember sitting down with Nicole Papageorgiou,CVT, Dolores Galindo,CVT and Tiah Schwartz,CVT in 2005 as a second year Veterinary Technology student at PCC doing clinical rotations at Laurelhurst Veterinary Hospital, and helping create the OVTAA and its name. A Legacy of Advocacy and Education The OVTAA was established with a clear mission: to promote the roles of veterinary technicians and assistants, advocate for professional recognition, and elevate standards of care. Over the past 20 years, this non-profit, volunteer-led organization has empowered its members through high-quality continuing education, networking opportunities, and access to the PVMA Affinity program. By providing resources and a collective voice, the OVTAA has championed the profession, ensuring veterinary support staff are valued for their critical contributions. Since partnering with the PVMA in 2019 (not sure if this is the right year) the Portland Veterinary Medical Association has provided administrative support to OVTAA, merging its Veterinary Team Affiliate (VTA) program with OVTAA membership to create shared benefits. This has expanded access to continuing education, over 40 CE credits annually, networking opportunities, wellness programs like monthly Wellness Days, and resources such as the PVMA’s affinity program and career center. The collaboration has also led to initiatives like the V.I.T.A.L. program for practice managers and events like the Rose City Veterinary Conference, enhancing professional growth and community connection. This partnership reflects a commitment to elevating the entire veterinary team, ensuring sustainability for OVTAA, and promoting high standards of care. Oregon’s veterinary technicians, certified through rigorous training and licensure by the Veterinary Technician National Exam, perform essential tasks from surgical assistance and anesthesia to diagnostic testing. Veterinary assistants, while not requiring certification, play equally vital roles in animal care and clinic operations. Practice managers and client services representatives are the front lines of driving efficiency, client satisfaction, patient care and enabling the medical staff to focus on quality care while ensuring practice stability and patient outcomes. CVT’s invest thousands of hours and dollars in their education, graduating from a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Oregon has two AVMA-accredited programs: Portland Community College and Central Oregon Community College, both offering an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary technology. THEN, they must pass the VTNE administered by the AAVSB, American Association of Veterinary State Boards with a score of 425 or higher. THEN, they must complete the Oregon Jurisprudence Exam/Regional Disease Test, that covers Oregon’s Veterinary Practice Act and diseases. And finally, they must apply to the Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board (OVMEB) with proof of education and exam scores, and an application fee. To maintain their certification, they must renew your CVT license every two years, completing 15 hours of continuing education, including scientific workshops, and journal reading. And in addition, if you have earned certifications as a Veterinary Technician Specialist or any number of advanced certifications the requirements to maintain your certificates are increased. The OVTAA welcomes all non-veterinarian team members—technicians, assistants, managers, receptionists, and kennel staff—fostering inclusivity and professional growth. Milestones and Impact Since its creation, the OVTAA has been a catalyst for change. It has supported Oregon’s veterinary community by addressing challenges like increasing demand for care and evolving responsibilities for technicians and assistants. The association’s efforts have aligned with the state’s projected 23.1% growth in veterinary technician jobs through 2029, reflecting the profession’s rising importance.  The OVTAA’s commitment to education is evident in its CE programs, which help certified veterinary technicians meet the OVMEB’s requirement of 15 hours every two years. These opportunities ensure members stay current with advancements in animal health, from radiology, RECOVER CPR to anesthesia. Additionally, the OVTAA offers free membership to veterinary technician students in Oregon nurturing and supporting the next generation of professionals. A Call to Celebrate Oregon’s veterinary community and pet owners honors its irreplaceable contributions of veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers and client services representatives. From small animal clinics to wildlife rehabilitation, these professionals demonstrate compassion and expertise daily. Looking ahead, the OVTAA remains committed to protecting and promoting the veterinary technology profession. Its 20-year journey reflects the power of community, education, and advocacy. Join us in celebrating this milestone and recognizing the unsung heroes who ensure Oregon’s animals receive world-class care. Our next goal is achieving title protection of the veterinary technician title.

We are now accepting applications for our next class- Due Friday, September 5th Undoubtedly, the early years of your veterinary career are both exciting and challenging and everything in-between. The PVMA offers this program to provide support, tools, and guidance to our early career members for personal and professional development. While our community continues to grow and evolve, we are making every effort to help our members connect and support one another. This has been the foundation of our organization for many years. The Power of Ten Program offers approximately ten early-career veterinarians the opportunity to complete a personal and professional development program comprised of in-person educational opportunities and activities over a 9-month period. The PVMA will provide all mentors, meals, and meeting expenses at no charge to the participant. Most sessions will be held in-person at the PVMA office in SW Portland. Key Benefits Through the Power of Ten, you will: Develop fundamental understanding of leadership skills, personal and professional goal setting, and emotional intelligence Deepen understanding of communication styles and skills Heighten awareness of yourself and better understand how to maximize interactions with those around you Gain the competency to utilize these skills within your life, practice, and community Experience a supportive environment that fosters meaningful interpersonal relationships and collaborative, lifelong interactions Program eligibility This program is intended for current PVMA member veterinarians who graduated within the last approximately 8 years (2016-24*). Other candidates may be considered based on their level of interest. * 2025 graduates will will be considered, however it is recommended to complete the intern year prior to participating. We are so excited to go on this journey with another group of PVMA members! For more information: portlandvma.journeycare.online/power-of-ten

The 2025-26 Oregon Veterinary Technician & Assistant Association annual membership renewal period has begun. The membership year runs from July 1st-June 30th. New memberships are being accepted at this time and are available to veterinary professionals with the exception of veterinarians. The OVTAA offers free student membership to those currently enrolled in a veterinary technology program. Over the past year, the OVTAA has strengthened their foundation and supports over 350 members. OVTAA highlights from the past year: Dedicated monthly learning opportunities: CE webinars, Recover CPR workshops, additional workshops Conducted virtual townhall meeting Coordinated Member social events Continued work on veterinary technician title protection in Oregon Provided outreach and established community connections Offered additional resources: complimentary Wellness Days, Smartphone App, CE and Well-being events, Community Platform Recognized members during annual awards presentation Collaborated with PVMA to offer learning opportunities at the annual Portland Rose City Veterinary Conference To learn more about the OVTAA and join the organization, please check out the website at: www.ovtaa.org

The Oregon Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association is honored to recognize individuals that have gone above and beyond for the veterinary profession, our community, and the people in it. We are proud to announce the following 2025 OVTAA Awards recipients:

The Portland Veterinary Medical Association is honored to recognize individuals that have gone above and beyond for the veterinary profession, our community, and the people in it. We are proud to announce the following 2025 PVMA Awards recipients:

This will be the eleventh year the PVMA Board of Directors has honored our amazing members and affiliated individuals by recognizing those who have given to our community and profession in exceptional ways. Any current PVMA member veterinarian will be eligible to submit one nomination for each award. Nominations will be accepted through February 28 th . Award recipients will be decided by the PVMA Board of Directors and announced at our November General Membership Meeting. The three award categories are: PVMA Veterinarian of the Year (any current PVMA member veterinarian is eligible) Awarded to a veterinarian who has made exceptional contributions to the profession and the Portland veterinary and animal welfare community through their practice, government appointments or volunteer efforts. PVMA Veterinary Team Member of the Year (any non-veterinarian team member is eligible) Recognition of a veterinary team member that has shown exceptional leadership and dedication in their practice and community. Outstanding Service (any allied/affiliated or veterinary professional is eligible) Honoring an individual, organization or company that has promoted the veterinary profession and the welfare of animals within the Portland metro area through education, research, practice and volunteerism. We are excited to recognize some of the members of our amazing community. No doubt it will be a difficult decision each and every time! Nomination Form

With your help, we will be hosting our traditional pet food and supplies drive this winter! You make the bin, we make all the shareable social media posts! To be included as a collection location, please contact the PVMA office at 503‐228‐7387 or pvma@portlandvma.org so we may include your practice’s name in our promotions. **Note: Participation does require collected donations to be brought to the PVMA office for sorting and distribution. Recipients of the donations will be: Portland Animal Welfare Team : www.pawteam.org The Portland Animal Welfare Team is a grassroots, volunteer-powered nonprofit that provides vital veterinary services for over 1,000 Portland-area families per year, aiding individuals living on the streets, in transitional shelters or government housing, as well as those facing temporary financial hardship that restricts their access to medical care for their pets. For many of our clients, home is where their beloved companion animal is. PAW Team provides veterinary care through a robust medical program including weekday appointments and drop-in wellness clinics at our NE Portland facility. Our services include essential wellness, vaccinations, parasite prevention, medication, management of some chronic conditions, food, pet supplies, and so much more. We have no veterinarians on staff and rely on the generous time and energy of a network of volunteers to help power our clinics. Coffee Creek Puppy Program: www.canine.org A small group of adults in custody (AIC) at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (CCCF), located in Wilsonville, raise puppies for Canine Companions. Canine Companions is a national non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities by providing highly trained service dogs. The AIC handlers raise the puppies for the first year and a half of the dog’s life. The AIC handler is responsible for the care and well-being of the dog 24 hours a day. PVMA member hospitals provide veterinary sponsorship while the dogs are in our area. To learn more about the PVMA partnership, visit our website. Items most needed/desired (some are suggestions for veterinary hospitals, others are for your clients!): · New or gently used (clean!) collars, leashes, harnesses and halters (harnesses and head halters are especially desired!) · New or gently used dog and cat toys- plush and tough chew (Kongs, Westpaw or Goughnut toys) · New or gently used warm pet clothing– sweatshirts, rain-gear, etc. · Over the counter products: dental/oral care, skin/joint/gi supplements (Probiotics, Wellactin, Dasaquin, Dermcaps, etc) · Grooming and general care tools, shampoo, nail clippers, ear cleaner, dog waste bags · Feline and Canine Flea & Heartworm Preventatives · Dry, canned, or pouch food– Any quality brand (MUST BE IN ORIGINAL PACKAGING) no more than 6 months past expiration · Training treats, pill pockets, pastes · Pet beds and blankets (new or very clean only) · Cat litter · General clinic & medical supplies: electric clippers, syringes (1cc, 3cc), syringe plugs, gauze, vetwrap, nitrile gloves, catheters, u/a strips, cleaning products, storage bins, odor eliminator, etc · Common use medications- Please visit, for a complete list: https://www.pawteam.org/medical-donations NOTE: We are not able to take controlled medications or dirty or damaged items. For a full list of PAW Team medical donation Wishlist items, visit: www.pawteam.org/donate/#anchor-medical-donations-wishlist Donations will be collected from through January 15th. To participate, veterinary practices must be able to bring collected donations to the PVMA office (located on SW Barbur Blvd at Capital Hwy): 10725 SW Barbur Blvd, Ste 120, Portland, OR 97219 for sorting and distribution. PLEASE CALL or EMAIL in advance, as we are not in office every day: 503-228-7387 or pvma@portlandvma.org Participating veterinary practices and locations: Bethany Family Pet Clinic Willamette Valley Animal Hospital Rose City Veterinary Hospital Synergy Veterinary Behavior Pearl Animal Hospital Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Tualatin Tanasbourne Veterinary Emergency Pearl Animal Hospital OREV, Specialty Vet Care Pacific Northwest Pet ER & Specialty Fern Hill Veterinary Care Fremont Veterinary Clinic Wilsonville Veterinary Clinic VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists Peak to Coast Veterinary Specialists North Plains Veterinary Clinic

Daniel Rost, CVT OVMA Board Director- Membership The In 1993, National Veterinary Technician Week was introduced by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our veterinary teams. This year, on its 31st anniversary, the Oregon Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association (OVTAA) stands firm in echoing that sentiment: our veterinary technicians and assistants are not just vital – they’re irreplaceable. The special anniversary week starts October 13th and lasts through October 19th, 2024. The Contemporary Need for Recognition The evolution of veterinary medicine, especially in the backdrop of Oregon’s increasing demand for veterinary care, has seen vet techs taking on broader responsibilities. From client education to advanced procedures, their versatility is astounding. This week serves as a reminder of their ever-growing importance in our ecosystem. A Call to Action for Oregon’s Veterinary Clinics Genuine Recognition: Now, more than ever, it’s vital for clinics across Oregon to ensure that their techs and assistants feel valued not just this week, but every day. Their feedback, insights, and well-being should be at the forefront of practice decisions. Engage and Reflect: Host sessions where your teams can reminisce about their journey, share their motivating stories, and discuss the future of veterinary tech in Oregon. It’s a rejuvenating experience that strengthens team bonds. Invest in Their Future: Encourage their academic and skill advancement. By sponsoring their participation in continuing education courses, you underline your commitment to their growth. Unique Ways to Celebrate Animal Therapy at the Clinic: How about something both therapeutic and delightful? Consider renting baby goats to provide several hours of goat therapy at your clinic. Organizations like Portland Goat Parties offer such unique experiences that staff will cherish. Cinematic Appreciation: Rent out a movie theater for a staff and family movie night. Celebrate the bond, dedication, and camaraderie that make your team truly special. Personalized Tokens of Gratitude: Immortalize the connection each staff member has with their pets. Have a photo of the staff’s beloved animal printed on a t-shirt or tote bag. Additionally, consider giving engraved or personalized water bottles or lunch containers as thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Art, Pets, and Relaxation: Host a “Paint and Sip” evening, where your team can paint portraits of their pets while enjoying a refreshing beverage. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation, creativity, and connection. Ideas for Oregon vendors include Board and Brush, Bottle and Bottega, and Pop and Paint. In-Clinic Surprises: Organize special relaxation zones, wellness activities, or collaborate with local massage therapists to bring chair massages to the clinics. Food and beverages always hit the mark – think about bringing a mobile coffee cart or arranging a catered lunch. Time – The Precious Gift: Sometimes, the most cherished gift is time. Offer additional vacation days as a nod to their dedication and a chance for them to rejuvenate. Support Local: Partner with Oregon’s local businesses for exclusive offers tailored for our techs. It’s an opportunity to show our appreciation while also bolstering our local community. Remember, these gestures, big or small, go a long way in showcasing the depth of our appreciation. They serve as tangible tokens of gratitude for the tireless work and unwavering passion our veterinary technicians and assistants bring to the table every single day. As the Oregon Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association (OVTAA) marks the 31st anniversary of National Veterinary Technician Week, we call on every practice, pet parent, and animal lover in Oregon to join us. Let’s ensure that our celebrations genuinely represent the depth of our appreciation for these incredible professionals. They’re the heart and soul of what we do, and their dedication is the cornerstone of veterinary excellence.