LIVE Veterinary Conference Providing Continuing EducationTogether!
On behalf of Veterinary Association Management and host NCCAA we welcome the opportunity to have our annual Mountain Veterinary Conference at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort. The conference will be held in the new state of the art Cherokee Convention Center which will make the MVC exceptional. Along with the newly designed conference center, our attendees will be staying in the new Cherokee Tower with its luxurious sleeping rooms. This new tower connects to the convention center and also is a short walk to the casino. Enjoy great continuing education and take advantage of all the amenities that Harrah's Cherokee has to offer. Take a dip in the indoor or outdoor (seasonal) pool or relax at the Mandarin Spa. There is bowling, an arcade and fun for all at the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center. Valet service is also available for your convenience. You don't have to be a gambler to enjoy Harrah's Cherokee, but if you are, the casino floor has many different games including Craps, Blackjack, Roulette and other table games all with live dealers as well as sports gambling at The Book. If slots are more your thing, there is also a huge selection of vegas style slot games to choose from. As an attendee you'll receive a $20 free slot play voucher, which you can use at any slot machine. Tempt your palate with all the food options available including the newly added Gordon Ramsey Food Market, Guy Fieri's Cherokee Kitchen, Wicked Weed Brew Pub and other staples like Selu Garden (Breakfast and Lunch), Ruths Chris Steak House, Brio Italian Grille, Noodle Bar and the Food Court.
With the new Cherokee Conference Center, Cherokee Tower and all the beauty of Cherokee, NC, this conference is sure to be outstanding. We look forward to seeing you at this years Mountain Veterinary Conference.
Providing 20 Hours of Live CE
Click here to download the Brochure and Registration Form!
April 6 - 9, 2025
"At the beautiful Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort"
Conveniently located within driving distance of these cities: Atlanta GA, Nashville TN, Lexington KY, Raleigh NC, Columbia SC & Burmingham AL |
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Your Conference Registration includes:
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The Mountain Veterinary
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Click Here to Download the Registration Form
For Hotel Reservations:
Room rates start at $139 + tax and any applicable resort fees guaranteed until March 20, 2025 and can be made by:
- calling Harrah’s Cherokee Resort, 828-497-7777 and reference group code S04MVET or
- online by clicking the link https://www.caesars.com/book/?propCode=CHE&action=FindRooms&groupcode=S04MVET
Conference Has Begun! Walkins are WELCOME!
You can now register On-Site during the conference (Walkins are Welcome), by
clicking here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and bring it with payment!
Mountain Veterinary Conference
April 6 - 9, 2025
at the beautiful Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and The Cherokee Convention Center, Cherokee, North Carolina
Scheduled Speakers
Joseph Taboada, DVM, Diplomat (ACVIM), Canine and Feline Liver Disease, Sponsored by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc.
Cassie Lux, DVM, DACVS-SA
Mary L. Berg, BS, RVT, RLATG, VTS (Dentistry)
Julie Wentzel, DVM, CVA(IVAS), CCRT, CVPP, Sponsored by Paw Prosper
Marie Zielaskowski, RVT, VTS (ECC)
Braidee C. Foote. DVM, DACVO
Joseph Jordan, PhD, CEO, NC Physicians Health Program, NC Veterinary Health Program
Robbie van Mullem, BS, Digital Media Specialist, Sponsored by 3 Sided Media
Conference Has Begun! Walkins are WELCOME!
You can now register On-Site during the conference (Walkins are Welcome), by
clicking here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and bring it with payment!
Tentative Schedule
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Sunday, April 6, 2025Registration open 10am-6pmExhibit Set up: 8am - 12pm, welcome to exhibit when setup |
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Topic |
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Braidee C. Foote. DVM, DACVO |
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm |
Ophthalmology Corneal Ulcers (including case discussions) - 2 hours Neuro Ophthalmology (including case discussion) - 2 hours Dry Eye - 1 hour |
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Joseph Jordan, PhD, CEO, NC Physicians Health Program, NC Veterinary Health Program |
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm |
Recognizing and Dealing with Substance Abuse in the Workplace (required by NCVMB) |
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Monday, April 7, 2025Registration Open 8amExhibit Hall Open at 8am-4:30pm
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Speaker |
Time |
Topic |
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Joseph Taboada, DVM, Diplomat (ACVIM), Canine and Feline Liver Disease, Sponsored by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc.Sponsored by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc. |
8:30 am - 10:00 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
Canine and Feline Liver Disease |
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Marie Zielaskowski, RVT, VTS (ECC) |
8:30 am - 10:00 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
1. What?! I’m Shocked! Identification and Stabilization of Shock 2. Uh Oh!, a UO: Feline Urethral Obstruction 3. One Is Not Like the Other: Understanding Rodenticides and Their Effects 4. Catheters: Where and When? |
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Julie Wentzel, DVM, CVA(IVAS), CCRT, CVPPSponsored by Paw Prosper |
See Topics |
Cranial Cruciate disease – the Anatomy, Diagnosis and Initial Management (1.5 hr) (8:30 am - 10:00 am) Objective: Review one of the most common orthopedic diseases we see in general and rehabilitation practice. We will review the anatomy of the stifle, risk factors for injury and diagnosis. Initial management to include traditional pain medication and rehabilitation options for management in lieu of or in preparation for surgery. The TPLO from a Rehabilitation perspective (1.25 hr) (10:15 am - 11:30 am) Objective: Discuss the basics of the TPLO surgery and how they impact the stifle and function of the pelvic limb. We will review the receptors, musculature and other structures impacted and how they can affect our patients and recovery. Initial Pain Management and Rehabilitation after a TPLO 1.25 hr) (1:00 pm - 2:15 pm) Objective: In this continuation of lectures, we will discuss initial management, goals and expectations for the first several weeks after a TPLO. We will include how to assess the patient for progress or complications, therapies and at home care. Rehabilitation Modalities and Non Pharmaceutical Pain Management Options (Part 1) (2:30 pm - 3:15 pm) Objective: This lecture will elaborate on the modalities previously discussed. This will include the science behind photobiomodulation and PEMF as well as the indications, contraindications, settings and dosages. We will discuss devices such as harnesses and equipment that can make post op care and rehabilitation easier for you to incorporate into practice and facilitate home care. Rehabilitation Modalities (Part 2) Lab (1 hr) (3:30 pm - 4:30 pm) Julie Wentzel With Maria Caiozzo CAN, VT, CCRA Objective: This lab will be a hands on demonstration of the modalities reviewed in part 1. We will have lasers, PEMF mats, harnesses and other equipment to review how to safely use these with your patients. |
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Robbie van Mullem, BS, Digital Media SpecialistSponsored by 3 Sided Media |
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
Parvo or Marketing: Which One Would You Like to Deal with in Your Clinic? Part 1 Parvo or Marketing: Which One Would You Like to Deal with in Your Clinic? Part 2 Websites, Social Media and Looking at Trends in the Veterinary Market - Part 1 Websites, Social Media and Looking at Trends in the Veterinary Market - Part 2 |
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Welcome Reception |
4:30 pm til 6:00 pm in the Exhibit Hall! |
Complimentary Hors d'oeuvres, Drinks and Fellowship - Meet with Colleagues, exhibitors and sponsors!! |
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Tuesday, April 8, 2025Registration Open 8amExhibit Hall Open 8am-4pm |
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Speaker |
Time |
Topic |
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Cassie Lux, DVM, DACVS-SA |
8:30 am - 10:00 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
Wound Management (1.5 hours) Portosystemic Shunt Management and Treatment (1 hour) Management of Tracheal Collapse (1 hour) Hemoabdomen Management (1 hour) Urethral Obstruction Management and Surgery (1 hour) |
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Marie Zielaskowski, RVT, VTS (ECC) |
8:30 am - 10:00 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
5. GDV: From Triage to the Table 6. Dystocia: To Push or Not to Push, That is the Question 7. IMHA: When the Immune System Goes Wrong 8. Do You Feel the Pressure? Understanding and Obtaining Blood Pressure Measurements |
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Mary L. Berg, BS, RVT, RLATG, VTS (Dentistry) |
8:30 am - 10:00 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
Block That Pain! Pain Management and Anesthesia for the Dental Patient Pain management is more than the latest popular terminology. It is an important part of veterinary dentistry. Many of the procedures performed on animals are painful and it is our duty as technicians to ensure that our patients are as comfortable as possible. The delivery of local nerve blocks prior to performing many dental procedures or oral surgery is a great way to create preemptive analgesia. This can often be incorporated into a multimodal plan for pain control. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lecture or two hour interactive wetlab Advanced Dental Procedures Oral disease is one of the most prevalent diseases in dogs and cats. 80% of adult dogs and 70% of adult cats have some form of oral disease. Unfortunately, that leads to the extraction of teeth that may have been saved. It is vital to offer the client the options to treatment via referral to veterinary dental specialist. Owners want what is in the best interest of their pets but may not be aware of alternative treatment options. Remember to never judge what your clients will be willing to do for their pets. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lecture The Complete Plan for the Periodontal Patient – COHAT Performing a Complete Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) entails much more than removing plaque and calculus from the teeth. A thorough dental prophylaxis consists of educating the client, an oral examination, charting disease process, pathology and anomalies, radiographs, both supra and sub-gingival plaque and calculus removal, hand scaling, polishing, irrigation and home care instructions. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lecture Dental Radiology Made Easy- Tips and Tricks! Dental radiographs are an essential part of the oral exam. The crown is just the tip of the iceberg. Approximately 42% of dental pathology is found subgingivally. Radiographs will help diagnose pathology that is not visible from the surface, confirm suspect pathology as well as help demonstrate the pathology to the client. Dental radiographs can improve the standard of care in your practice and increase your clinic’s revenue. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lecture |
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Wednesday, April 9, 2025 |
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Time |
Topic |
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Mary L. Berg, BS, RVT, RLATG, VTS (Dentistry) |
8:30 am - 10:00 am 10:15 am - 12:00 Noon |
Basic Dental X-ray Interpretation Dental x-rays are an essential part of the oral exam. You are now taking diagnostic x-rays but what are you seeing? Learn how to properly position dental x-rays to be able identify the correct teeth. Is that dental pathology or a normal structure? The basics of canine and feline dental x-rays will be presented along with a series of “What is that?” slides to help better understand dental radiology. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lecture The Oral Examination and Common Pathology It is important to be able to recognize and identify oral pathology and anomalies. The most commonly observed abnormalities will be discussed in this presentation. It is equally important to correctly record the pathology on dental charts. A thorough dental examination includes both conscious and anesthetized examinations as well as charting disease processes, pathology and anomalies, and treatment plans. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lectures Gaining Dental Compliance – What Works! As veterinary health professionals, it is our job not only to promote dentistry but to educate our clients about the importance of good oral health. How can we do this? Talk with them about the importance of good oral care by expressing the fact that the mouth is a mirror to the body. Start this education process with your clients at the first puppy or kitten visit and continue at every visit throughout the pet’s lifetime. Explain that the mouth is a mirror to the body. Methods to promote the importance of oral health will be discussed. Target Audience: Technician and DVM Suggested Length and Format: 1 hour lecture or interactive workshop |
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Conference Has Begun! Walkins are WELCOME!
You can now register On-Site during the conference (Walkins are Welcome), by
clicking here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and bring it with payment!
Please Note The Following:
*Times and Presenters Subject to Change
* Please turn off or silence cell phones in sessions
Speaker Bios...
Mary L. Berg, BS, RVT, RLATG, VTS (Dentistry)
Mary received her VTS (Dentistry) in 2006, recertifying in 2020. Her background includes veterinary dental research, practice management and dental technician in general practice.
She’s currently an adjunct at two veterinary technology programs and the president of Beyond the Crown Veterinary Education; teaching dentistry to veterinary teams, using practical and easy to master methods.
Mary was named the VMX Speaker of the Year in 2024, NAVTA Veterinary Technician of the Year by NAVTA in 2020, won the AVDT’s Excellence in Dentistry Education in 2019.
Mary is a textbook author, speaker, and wet lab instructor at numerous state and national conferences.
Joseph Jordan, PhD, CEO, NC Physicians Health Program, NC Veterinary Health Program
Dr. Joseph Jordan, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of the North Carolina Physicians Health Program, has over 30 years of experience working with persons experiencing substance use and mental health disorders.
Dr. Jordan has been with NCPHP for 17 years and is currently serving as Southeastern Director and is on the Board of Directors for the Federation of State Physician Health Programs.
Prior to joining NCPHP, Dr. Jordan served as Ethics Officer for a national credentialing board and worked in hospitals, owned and operated group and private practices, and taught at several universities.
Dr. Jordan holds national credentials in substance use disorder counseling, supervision, and mental health counseling.
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Cassie Lux, DVM, DACVS-SA
Cassie Lux is a native of Indiana, though she now calls Tennessee home.
She attended Purdue University for her undergraduate and veterinary school education.
She completed a rotating internship at Mississippi State University and then completed a residency in small animal surgery at the University of California-Davis.
She is an Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of Tennessee, where she has been since 2013 and specializes in soft tissue surgery.
In 2014, she became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
She has published numerous scientific articles, authored book chapters on various topics, and she has served on research and continuing education committees for ACVS, Veterinary Endoscopy Society, and Society of Veterinary Soft Tissue Surgery.
Her areas of interest include trauma, minimally invasive surgery, and interventional radiology.
Dr. Joseph Taboada, Professor, Small Animal Internal Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University
Dr. Taboada is a Professor of Small Animal Internal Medicine at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine where he has served as Associate Dean of Student and Academic Affairs and as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Accreditation since 1999. He is a graduate of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and pursued specialty training in internal medicine by first completing an internship at The Animal Medical Center in New York City and then a small animal internal medicine residency at the University of Florida. Dr. Taboada is a diplomate of the ACVIM; is a past President and Chair of the Board of ACVIM, of the Specialty of Internal Medicine, and of the ACVIM Foundation. He was a member of the Board of Regents of ACVIM from 1996-2009 and a member of the board of the ACVIM Foundation from 2004-2011. He served as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine from 2002-2007. He presently serves on the Board of the International Council of Veterinary Assessment (ICVA). He has won 31 national and SVM teaching and service awards, including the Andrew Lackner Mentoring Award in 2019, the Pfizer-Norden Distinguished Teacher Award in 2007, the Animal Medical Center Distinguish Alumni Award in 2004, the American Animal Hospital Association Innovative Veterinary Diets Award for contributions to the profession in 2003, the American Animal Hospital Association Distinguished Service Award in 2005, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Distinguished Service Award in 2012, and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Foundation Distinguished Service Award in 2013. He has spoken at over 150 international, national, regional, and local meetings, and has a textbook that has been published in 3 languages, has written over 100 book chapters, is a section editor for Cote’s Clinical Veterinary Advisor, and has authored or coauthored over 100 scientific articles. Dr. Taboada’ special interests are feline medicine, hepatology, fungal and other miscellaneous infectious diseases, and veterinary education.
Julie Wentzel, DVM, CVA(IVAS), CCRT, CVPP
Dr. Julie Wentzel grew up in Annapolis, Maryland, graduating from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry and Wildlife in 1998. She then received her DVM from the University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004, where she pursued interests in both wildlife medicine and small animal emergency medicine. After graduation, she completed a small animal emergency medicine internship at Anne Arundel Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Annapolis, Maryland, where she remained on staff for another seven years.
After moving to Virginia, she spent several years working at Animal Emergency and Critical Care. She completed her Certified Veterinary Acupuncture courses in 2013, became a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner and Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist in 2014 and spent 6 years working full time performing rehabilitation and pain management. Currently she is an associate at Market Street Animal Clinic, and enjoying all aspects of medicine; however, she remains passionate about treating acute and chronic pain through an integrative medicine approach.
In her free time, Dr. Wentzel enjoys spending time with her family, as well as gardening, bird watching, volleyball, and running. She lives with her husband and their three children and two cats in Leesburg, Virginia.
Sponsored by Paw Prosper
Marie Zielaskowski, RVT, VTS (ECC)
Marie Zielaskowski graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in 2006 with her A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology. Marie became an RVT in N.C. in 2006; she began her career practicing in general practice.
In 2010 Marie started picking up shifts at the local 24/7 emergency facility in Boone, N.C. In 2016, she transitioned to a full time technician at Animal Emergency Clinic of the High Country, Boone N.C. Within a short period of her time there, she became the lead technician and shift manager for the hospital.
Between 2019-2020 Marie was successful in getting the hospital team RECOVER CPR certified in BLS and ALS. In 2020, she decided to begin the process of obtaining her VTS in Emergency and Critical Care (ECC). At the end of this 2 year process, she successfully obtained her certification as a VTS(ECC).
Marie is currently the lead technician, manager, and full time technician at Animal Emergency Clinic of the High Country in Boone, N.C. She continues to maintain her RECOVER CPR certifications in BLS and ALS as well as her VTS in ECC.
In her spare time, Marie enjoys spending time with her family and being outside. They currently have one dog and two cats. This will likely increase in the near future if Marie has any opportunity to rescue. She says it is an “occupational hazard” which she embraces!
Conference Has Begun! Walkins are WELCOME!
You can now register On-Site during the conference (Walkins are Welcome), by
clicking here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and bring it with payment!
What our Attendees Say!
Mountain Veterinary Conference : I just attended the Mountain Veterinary Conference and had a great time! The speakers were the same ones you see at the huge, expensive conferences but in a more intimate, affordable setting. The local area is beautiful and lots of fun to explore - I particularly enjoyed watching the elk herds cross the roads in the mornings. The Cherokee Casino was an excellent venue - easy to navigate ... read more
Katie Gies, DVM | Attendee - white.goosedvm@gmail.com
What our Attendees Say!
Mountain Veterinary Conference : I've been meaning to share my very positive review of the Mountain Veterinary Conference for months -- my apologies for not doing this sooner! The Mountain Veterinary Conference was a wonderful CE experience on all levels. There were a wide variety of high quality sessions, the setting was beautiful, the food and accommodations were excellent, and the exhibitors were helpful and informative... read more
Valerie Weiss, DVM | Attendee - vaweiss@ml1.net
What our Speakers/Exhibitors Say!
“What fun! We doubled our record for the number of copies of SMILE! sold in the first day. The relaxed atmosphere at the Fun n Sun Conference makes it easy to interact with everyone.” ... read more
Lynne Swanson, DVM | Speaker, Exhibitor - Safe Harbor Farm’s SMILE! Project
What our Speakers Say!
Thank you for having me speak this year at Sun N Fun; What a GREAT show! I have thoroughly enjoyed the kindness and hospitality shown by all. Great organization, great location, and great session topics! I urge all veterinary professionals to attend Sun N Fun next year, and not miss out on this fantastic CE event! ... read more
Jenny Cassibry Fisher, RVT, VTS | Speaker - jenny@practivet.com
What our Attendees Say!
I would like to extend a sincere "Thank You" to Howie and all those involved in hosting the Colonial Veterinary Conference in Colonial Williamsburg this December 2015. We attended a few years ago and were sold on this meeting for our ContEd This meeting has it all! Great speakers, wonderful hotel, delicious food, kind staff and lotsa' coffee! Howie makes sure everyone is comfortable and enjoying themselves.. The biggest impression our first time here years ago was not just the speakers, topics, and location.. but the obvious love this group has for one another AND for our Lord... read more
Dr. Donna M Gage | Running Paws Pet Hospital, McKinney, TX
What our Speakers Say!
I've been a speaker for at least a dozen meetings hosted by Veterinary Association Management in the last twenty or so years. The meetings are always well organized and managed. More importantly, the attendees are always eager to learn and happy to be there. The Lee family and all the staff are welcoming and the atmosphere is very family-friendly... read more
Margi Sirois, EdD, MS, CVT, LAT | Speaker
What our Speakers Say!
Veterinary Association Management conference are intimate and interactive. As a presenter, I have the opportunity to talk about behavior issues – a significant reason for relinquishment, and also how to speak with clients about these concerns, as well as getting pets to vets, including Fear Free and Cat Friendly Practices.
Steve Dale, CABC | Speaker
What our Attendees Say!
I've been going to Veterinary Association Management's Veterinary Conferences for 16 years. They are by far my favorite. The quality and choice of speakers always suits my needs. I feel that I get the most up-to-date and thorough information. Lectures focus on practical advice we can actually use - no ivory towers here... read more
Melanie Bene, DVM | Attendee
What our Attendees Say!
My family and I have always enjoyed Veterinary Association Management's (Ralph Lee's) continuing education courses. We have been attending them now for well over twelve years. We are always very delighted to attend the courses and conferences that Veterinary Management Association hosts. The benevolence of the Lee Family always shines forth, and they make my family feel more than welcome. The veterinary courses are extremely relevant to practice, and much of the information obtained can be put into effect the day we return. The speakers are of the utmost quality and ... read more
Drs. Charles and Dawn Jones | Mercy Animal Hospital, Monroe, NC
What our Speakers Say!
Thank you so much for allowing me to speak at this past weekend's Sun N Fun conference in South Carolina. It was a great experience. Howie, Martha, Dawn and the entire Veterinary Association Management team always knows how to make a speaker feel welcomed! The conference was so well organized which is a testament to the VAM team. Thank you so much for all your kindness. It was a true honoring getting to speak to the technicians at the conference. It was a great group who stayed engaged throughout! Thank you again. I hope you are all home getting to relax a little after working so hard to make the conference so successful. ... read more
Amy Newfield, CVT, VTS (ECC) | Speaker
What our Attendees Say!
I have been a veterinarian in NC since 1982. 33years. I have been getting my continuing education hours with Ralph Lee’s Veterinary Management for 28 years. My wife is a registered vet technician and we both must get yearly CE hours to continue our licenses. We have come to Ralph Lee’s Great Smokies Veterinary Conferences for last 20 years. I appreciate through the years the dedication to providing quality continuing education year after year. We enjoy the excellent speakers on subjects that are useful in regular day to day practice; comprehensive wet labs; and very affordable CE... read more
J. Michael Beck DVM and Jane Beck VMT | Emerywood Veterinary Hospital, High Point, NC
What our Speakers Say!
I've participated in several Veterinary Association Management continuing educational meetings and they are all top notch. Each meeting has it's own look and feel. The one consistent thread is excellent speakers and great topics/content being presented. I will be planning a family vacation around Fun N Sun veterinary conference. It's a must do for anyone looking for good CE and creating great memories with the family... read more
Paul Camilo, CVPM | Veterinary Consultation Services, LLC
What our Exhibitors Say!
The Center of Veterinary Expertise has had the pleasure of participating in Colonial Veterinary conference on several levels, sponsorship, vendor as well as providing speakers over the last three year. Howie and his team always ensure a positive, warm, and successful experience. We look forward to supporting the Colonial Veterinary Conference for many more years to come.
Danielle T. Russ | LVT, BS, BA, AS, Hospital Manager, the COVE, Suffolk, VA
What our Attendees Say!
It is not a small thing when gathering your CE credits that the meetings be orderly, well presented, convenient, accessible. Cudos to the Colonial Team. It was an all-around good experience.
Rob McBrayer, DVM | Palmetto Vet Hospital, Ridgeland, SC
What our Exhibitors Say!
I have been a equipment manufacturing design consultant for Snyder Mfg. for over 30 years. I have been attending the Ralph Lee's meetings for over 20 years of that time. The Ralph Lee's meetings are different than the standard veterinary conference meetings that are available. The meetings are designed to be very family friendly. The attendees and exhibitors are treated with more respect than any other of the veterinary meetings I attend. The smaller venue will also give everyone an opportunity to build long term relationships in the industry.
Ralph Ihde | Snyder Mfg., New Sharon, IA
What our Attendees Say!
I plan each year's continuing education requirements around Ralph Lee's Great Smokies Veteirnary Conference. The program venue is especially nice, this time of year, in Asheville, N.C. The Lee family (Howie, Martha and the crew) are most accommodating. They've always made this a pleasurable, meaningful experience. I secure a copy of the conference notes each trip. These notes serve as valuable information for me as I care for my patients on a daily basis. The saddest part, for me, is when the meeting concludes. Soon, I'll be planning for the 2016 conference.
Dr. William “Bill” Martin | Central Veterinary Hospital, Knoxville, TN
What our Exhibitors Say!
The Lees' vet meetings are some of the best...and I attend a lot of them! As both a veterinarian and an exhibitor I get the best of both worlds at these events.... Great Continuing Education and Great attendance to the exhibit booth. I attend every one I possibly can.
Dr. Dan Moore, DVM | Vet Assured, Unicoi, TN
What our Speakers Say!
I have lectured for Veterinary Association Management for the last 4 years and they consistently have wonderfully organized, informative and practical conferences for practicing small animal veterinarians. With a relatively small group of attendees ... read more
Kristin Welch DVM, DACVECC | CRITICAL CARE, CHIEF OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Sponsors and Exhibitors At The Conference
Please visit these Exhibitors at the Conference to see the latest and best products and services for your veterinary practice:
Diamond Sponsors |
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MicroVet Diagnostics |
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Gold Sponsors |
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Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Services |
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Silver Sponsor |
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Triumph Medical Services |
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Bronze Sponsors |
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ServiceVet Technologies |
Purple Moon Herbs and Studies |
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Exhibitors |
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3 Sided Media |
American Regent Animal Health |
Idexx |
Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association |
Schultz Technology |
Virbac |
Click here to download the 2025 Mountain Veterinary Conference Exhibitor Contract!
Conference Hotel Information
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Where every hand is holding a very good time.
Arrowheads point to good luck, so follow them to Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. North Carolina’s first casino, Harrah’s promises an electrifying adventure that’s bound to put a smile on your face and, if you’re lucky, a bulge in your wallet.
A casino and luxury hotel combined.
Harrah’s Casino is home to a 21-story, four-star, luxury hotel nestled in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. The 1,108 spacious rooms include amenities such as large baths, upscale furniture and fixtures, and 42-inch HD plasma TVs. In addition to these amenities, guests have access to an arcade, indoor pool and workout room, as well as a 15,000-square-foot conference center and several delicious restaurants. Eight unforgettable suites are located in the Mountain Tower, 21 in the Soco Tower, and 78 in Creek Tower.
Bask in the earthly pleasures of Mandara Spa.
Inspired by elements of native culture and Balinese-influenced treatments, Mandara Spa brings casino guests the highest quality of therapeutic luxury. The Mandara brand emphasizes beauty, rejuvenation, and exotic indulgence, aiming to enhance each guest’s resort experience by providing luscious opportunities for pampering.
Ease and enjoyment for all ages.
We know every moment of your time here is important so we provide convenient check-in and checkout kiosks in various locations throughout the hotel. Ask about our “Stay and Play Packages” to take advantage of every opportunity. If you are traveling with children, stay at the casino and let the kids explore the arcade while the adults hit the gaming tables, or take some time and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking,tubing, and much more. Traveling with canine companions under 50 pounds? Ask about our PetStay room benefits.
More than just a casino: Harrah’s Events Center and Conference Center
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort houses a new 3,000-seat events center where acts from Hank Williams, Jr. to Lady Antebellum have performed. This unique venue option features amphitheater seating on three levels for a variety of events and programs. The main floor can accommodate everything from a dinner for 800 to a tradeshow with more than 150 booths. The casino can also host groups and meetings ranging from ten to over 3,000 people in a state-of-the-art conference facility. The large meeting space can be broken down into 7 smaller configurations to suit any event or group needs.... from VisitCherokeeNC.Com
"The luxurious 21-story Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel is set amid the beautiful mountain setting of western North Carolina and provides luxury lodging that creates an upscale experience with 1,108 spacious rooms that include breathtaking views. Check-in/Checkout Kiosks are available in the hotel for fast service and are located on the 2nd floor of the hotel. Enjoy many amenities like the fitness room that is open 24/7, the indoor pool and our new outdoor pool featuring a zero entry pool, cabanas and bar area."
An enterprise of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation, located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina, Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort is celebrating over 15 years of operation since opening its doors in November 1997. The Casino has 150,000 square feet of gaming space and offers 3,800 slot machines and over 100 traditional table games such as black jack, roulette and craps. The property also features over 1,100 hotel rooms, the Le Fu Men gaming area, 10 restaurants, the Essence Lounge, a 3,000 seat Event Center, the luxurious 18,000 square feet Mandara Spa and eight retail shops. In addition to the 56-acre property, guests have privileged access to the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation-owned Sequoyah National Golf Club, named one of Golf Magazine's best new golf courses.
For Hotel Reservations:
Room rates start at $139 + tax and any applicable resort fees guaranteed until March 20, 2025 and can be made by:
- calling Harrah’s Cherokee Resort, 828-497-7777 and reference group code S04MVET or
- online by clicking the link https://www.caesars.com/book/?propCode=CHE&action=FindRooms&groupcode=S04MVET
The Cherokee Convention Center Lobby
The Cherokee Convention Center - Guy Fieri Circles
The Cherokee Convention Center - Guy Fieri Bar
The Cherokee Convention Center - Starbucks
Creek Tower Standard Room
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort Classroom
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort Mandara Spa
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You can now register On-Site during the conference (Walkins are Welcome), by
clicking here to download the Registration Form, fill it out and bring it with payment!
Area Information
Cherokee, North Carolina
A culture, a people, and a place that's actually a sovereign nation, Cherokee is located right in the heart of Western North Carolina. It's also base camp for hiking in the Great Smokies, arts and crafts shopping, native elk herd viewing, hours of fishing fun, and home to a history that spans millennia. Ready? Let’s go.
From visitcherokeenc.com ...
Discover the fun of seeing the world through Cherokee eyes.
It might happen on a mud-spattering romp through the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. Or while hearing the creation legend in the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. You’ll be having fun in Cherokee, relaxing, and suddenly, you’re a little more in tune with the natural world. With just one visit to something as profound as the outdoor drama “Unto These Hills,” you can’t help but look at things a little differently. And you’ll certainly have more fun. How will Cherokee affect you? Plan. Play. Visit. And discover.
Adventures that go deeper.
Each place you visit in Cherokee pulses with the stories and significance of a people whose roots run deep and whose ancient wisdom is fascinating to uncover. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Western North Carolina, Cherokee invites you to smell the wood smoke and open your ears. If you listen closely, maybe you can hear the chanting of the little Nunnehi people of the mountain peaks. No need to resist Cherokee’s invitations to dive right in. Fire off a blowgun if you dare, but make sure your spouse is in the clear. As you cast your line into the trout-filled rivers or wash your face in the sweet spray of a waterfall, let the powerful feelings of Cherokee carry you. Even if it’s just for a day or two.
Open your eyes with us.
A virtual treasure trove of outdoorsy fun awaits in Cherokee. Activities gain new dimensions as you become aware of their origins, steeped in a vibrant cultural heritage. For instance, if you enjoy birding, you may never see the cardinal in the same way after learning about the legend of how it got its scarlet color–just as you may observe in a new way the copper lines in the ancient boulders along the banks of the Oconaluftee where you may be fishing, tubing or kayaking. Did you know that the wolf showed the cardinal those copper lines to paint herself with after she pecked the mud from his eyes? These are stories you and your fellow travelers will learn as you explore Cherokee.
Awaken your power animal.
Cherokee history, song, dance, and period regalia come to vivid life in sites such as the Oconaluftee Indian Village, the outdoor drama “Unto These Hills,” or the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Cherokee hosts a variety of annual cultural festivals throughout the year where you can share in the celebration of colorful customs and learn about ancient beginnings.
Let your braids fly in downtown Cherokee.
Nostalgic shops offering blowguns and tomahawks, comfy motor lodges, family fun parks, and petting zoos can all be found in downtown Cherokee, NC. If you’re looking for something extraordinary, consider playing the 18-hole Sequoyah National Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones II, then staying at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.