OAVT Discovery 2026 - October 17-18
Join us for Discovery 2026 – OAVT’s annual conference for veterinary technicians! This year we are celebrating 50 years with some extra special features!
Mark your calendar for October 17–18, 2026, at the Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris, where veterinary technicians from across Ohio will gather for two days of education, networking, and professional growth. Discovery 2026 features a dynamic lineup of lectures and workshops covering clinical skills, patient care,and new diagnostic testing. This year’s highlights for our 50 year anniversary: Brian Goleman, CVT from Brians Bandages joins us to present a special wet lab, and The Columbus Zoo will be rounding out the weekend with some special guest of their own.
Attendees will enjoy a variety of sessions led by respected experts, earn continuing education credit, and connect with colleagues and industry partners. We’re proud to welcome our 2026 sponsors and exhibitors, including Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Midwest Veterinary Supply, Medvet, Cove, Humane Ohio, OVMA, IDEXX, OVIK Heath, Zoetis and Purina Veterinary Diets.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, discover new resources, or recharge your passion for the profession, Discovery 2026 is your opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired.
2026 Topics
Hill’s Saturday Night CE
Diana Lewis, DVM
Tackling feline lower urinary track disease
While we enjoy dinner provided by Hills we will discuss:
- will explore nutritional options for addressing Feline Idiopathic Cystitis and stress in cats.
- discuss diagnosis and nutritional management of struvite and calcium oxalate
uroliths, and review specific nutrients of concern. - end with a discussion on how to successfully recommend dietary changes to the pet parent.
Brian Goleman, CVT
Modified Robert Jones Bandaging: Hands-On Skills Lab
This interactive, hands-on laboratory is designed to build confidence and consistency in
applying the Modified Robert Jones bandage. Participants will review the purpose and
biomechanics of each bandage layer before practicing proper application techniques on canine
limb models. Emphasis will be placed on patient assessment, appropriate material selection,
tension control, padding, and common pitfalls that can lead to bandage complications. By the
end of the session, attendees will have the practical skills needed to confidently apply a well-
constructed Modified Robert Jones bandage in everyday clinical practice.
Peggy Metzger, RVT
Saddle up! (or not) The Catastrophic Clot Chronicles
Feline saddle thrombus is a life-threatening emergency that requires rapid recognition and intervention. This lecture reviews the pathophysiology of aortic thromboembolism through the lens of Virchow’s triad, relevant cardiovascular anatomy, and common underlying diseases.
Attendees will explore classic clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, pain management, nursing care, and current treatment strategies. Prognosis, client communication, and quality-of- life considerations will also be discussed. A real-world case study will guide participants through clinical decision-making from presentation to outcome, helping veterinary professionals build confidence in identifying and managing this challenging and emotionally charged condition.
Scabs, Scars, and Success Stories
This veterinary wound care lecture provides a practical overview of wound assessment and management in small animal patients. Topics include the stages of wound healing, identification of common wound types, and selection of appropriate wound coverings and dressings.
Attendees will review bandaging techniques, bandage layers and functions, and common complications associated with improper bandaging. The session also explores how patient factors, contamination, and tissue health influence healing outcomes. Through case-based discussion and clinical examples, veterinary professionals will gain confidence in creating effective wound management plans that promote healing, comfort, and patient recovery.
Brenda Starkey, RVT
Fur Real Math
Basic calculations, performing dilutions and calculating additives.
Chanel White, RVT
Critical Neonatal Care
This CE will focus on the care and management of neonatal puppies and kittens following a C- section. Attendees will review C-section preparation and immediate post-operative care. We will discuss the newest recover guidelines for C-section neonatal care.
Jessica Williamson, DVM
IDEXX Cancer Dx Testing
This presentation is designed to discuss the prevalence of cancer in the canine population and
demonstrate how IDEXX Cancer Dx, using novel biomarkers specific for lymphoma, can help
diagnose and differentiate lymphoma in at-risk patients earlier and with clarity.
Monica Lawton, BS, RVT
✔️ Nutritional Management of Atopy & Food Allergy in Dogs & Cats
This lecture will explore allergic dermatitis in pets, including the three primary categories: flea allergy, atopy, and food allergy. Attendees will learn about the mechanisms behind adverse food reactions, including cutaneous and gastrointestinal signs, and the importance of elimination diet trials for diagnosis. The session will also cover effective management strategies, emphasizing the role of veterinarians in educating pet owners about dietary choices including novel protein diets, hydrolyzed protein diets, and amino-acid-based diets. Participants will gain insights into the latest research and best practices for dietary management of atopy, including essential fatty acids, zinc, vitamins E & A, and collagen.
Dr. Becky Eschmann, DVM, MPH, CPH, DACVPM
Nutritional Management of Canine & Feline Urinary Conditions
Lower urinary tract signs (LUTS) are a leading cause of inappropriate urination in dogs and cats and represent a significant threat to the human-animal bond. This lecture will review the multifactorial causes of LUTS, including feline idiopathic cystitis, urolithiasis, urethral obstruction, and urinary tract infections, with an emphasis on differentiating medical from behavioral etiologies. Attendees will learn evidence-based approaches to diagnostics, antibiotic stewardship, and interpretation of urinalysis findings. The session will also cover current management strategies, including nutritional therapy, minimally invasive procedures, environmental modification, and long-term prevention. Practical guidance will be provided to help veterinary teams improve patient outcomes while reducing the risk of relinquishment due to urinary issues.
Susan Skorupski, DVM
Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board Update
What’s new in the legislative world of veterinary medicine. Attendees have opportunity to ask questions or concerns during this interactive session.
Chloe Alexander, RVT, VTS (Anesthesia)
✔️ To Sit or Not to Sit: Anesthetic Complications and Emergencies
No session descriptions have been provided at this time Please check back later.