Purina Institute Events

Andrew Sparkes, BVetMEd, PhD, DECVIM, MANZCS, MRCVS

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a common syndrome in veterinary practice and typically represents 4-6% of cases presented in general practice. While a number of different identifiable causes of FLUTD are recognised, studies have found that feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) accounts for 55-75% of cases. An evidence-based review of the causes and management of FIC is provided, with an emphasis on dietary management and environmental modification.

Andrea J. Fascetti, VMD, PHD, DACVIM (SAIM, NUTRITION)

Cecilia Villaverde Haro, BVSC, PHD, DACVIM (NUTRITION), DECVCN

Leading veterinary nutrition experts discuss key aspects of life stage nutrition, including the impact of growth, neutering, obesity and aging. Drs. Fascetti and Villaverde provide practical, evidence-based advice regarding the timing of proactive life stage-based nutritional interventions, as well as tips for initiating client conversations and improving compliance.

Marge Chandler, DVM, MS, MANZCVS, DACVIM (SAIM, NUTRITION), MRCVS

Shoshana Verton-Shaw, RVT, VTS (NUTRITION)

A case-based discussion with international veterinary nutrition specialists on having meaningful nutrition conversations with pet owners. The conversation reviews why nutrition is challenging to discuss -- it is an emotional, complex and scientific area of veterinary medicine. Tips on how veterinary professionals can use the circle of nutrition in their client conversations are also provided.

Galia Sheinberg, DVM, ESP, DLACVD

Alison Manchester, DVM, DACVIM

Martha G. Cline, DVM, DACVIM (NUTRITION)

A case-focused discussion with global experts who share their unique perspectives on dietary elimination trials, including how they integrate nutrition conversations with clients into their everyday practice.

Julie Churchill, DVM, PhD, DACVN Sarah Abood, DVM, PhD

Nutrition is integral to proactive veterinary care and provides patients and their human families with the best available care. Dr. Julie Churchill and Dr. Sarah Abood provide thoughtful advice on how to have nutrition conversations that build client trust.

Jörg M. Steiner, Med Vet, Dr Med Vet, PhD, DACVIM-SAIM, DECVIM-CA, AGAF

Hear a brief overview of intestinal microbiota composition and importance, followed by an in-depth review of different methods for evaluating the gut microbiota with a focus on assay practicality and feasibility.

Jan Suchodolski, MedVet, DrVetMed, PhD, AGAF, DACVM

Discover how no single test allows proper assessment of the gut microbiota and its function and why a combination of molecular tools, with an emphasis on the gut dysbiosis index, is needed for case management.

Jan Suchodolski, MedVet, DrVetMed, PhD, AGAF, DACVM

Learn how the gut microbiome is a metabolic and immunologic organ that plays an important role in health and disease. Dr. Suchodolski also explores the relationship between the microbiota, dysbiosis and systemic organ disease.

Gail Czarnecki-Maulden, MS, PhD

Learn how probiotic strains are identified and developed, and uncover the truth behind common myths and misconceptions about probiotics and synbiotics.