Dr. Dennis Brooks, Veterinary Ophthalmologist

Dennis Brooks has a lot of letters after his name;  D.V.M., PhD, Diplomate ACVO and Professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

His look

 may not be what you’re used to in veterinarians. Indeed, he’s negotiating with a group in Montana about coming up for a talk. “They said if I came to Montana I’d have to have a haircut. We’re still talking.”

When he began his talk, nothing but practical information came forth.  That is the general practitioner’s best evaluation of a continuing education presentation: how many “pearls” I can take back to my practice and use in the coming week.  You aren’t in his class long before you know that he is truly an inspired and inspiring expert.

Veterinarians attend continuing education classes throughout each year so that they will stay up to date on the latest information. That way, whether you go to a veterinarian who graduated this year or a doctor who graduated thirty years ago, you get the same level of care. Staying current is vital.

State boards of veterinary medicine determine the number of hours required for veterinarians practicing in their states. The requirements vary widely.

Dr. Brooks was speaking to the Louisiana Academy of Veterinary Practice. I have been on the board of directors for about five years. We have world-class speakers who bring eight hours of continuing education to us four times each year. Mississippi and Louisiana veterinarians may attend no other programs and obtain all of the hours we require for a year.

In the remainder of this year we will have presentations on Pharmacology (the study of medications and how they affect the body) and General Surgery.
See you tomorrow, Dr. Randolph.