The AVMHS is delighted to announce the publication of Guideposts for Veterinary Professionals, a handbook that offers valuable life guidance to complement the challenging years of a veterinary medical education and early career.

 

Copies were presented to students at colleges of veterinary medicine in the United States and Canada at annual white coat ceremonies or other special events in 2021 and 2022 academic years. 

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Guideposts is intended to be inspirational as well as aspirational and to demonstrate the value of embracing the rich history of the veterinary medical profession and the humanities. Although the handbook was developed primarily to support veterinary students and recent graduates, the timeless advice and words of wisdom contained within may benefit veterinarians at any stage in their careers.

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Guideposts for Veterinary Professionals is divided into the following major sections:

• The Way of Veterinary Medicine

• A veterinary Education and Career

• Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship

• A Balanced Life

• Character

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Each of these broad topics includes several chapters, written by approximately thirty prominent veterinarians and educators who have shared their insights, perspectives, and personal experiences in career and life. All contributing authors are leaders in the profession, including several deans or former deans of veterinary schools.

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Additional content includes biographical sketches of 13 luminaries--past and present--in the profession. A special chapter on "Sir William Osler: The Significance of His Life to Veterinary Medicine" details the career and great wisdom of Dr. Osler, a revered physician from the late 19th century and early 20th century. Having also contributed significantly to comparative and veterinary medicine, his teachings in part provided the impetus for creating this book for veterinary students.

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Cite as: Aiello SE, Currier RW, eds. Guideposts for Veterinary Professionals. American Veterinary Medical History Society; 2021.

Size: 5" x 7", 236 pages. ISBN: 978-1-7368471-0-7