Kansas City Veterinary Medical Association

by Larry Kovac, DVM

November/December 2008

Hello, I have always been told to put your retirement investments into mutual funds and not ever move them to cash. I listened again in the midst of the current financial turmoil and took another hit. I hope you have fared better than I have since the Wall Street and Washington fiasco occurred. I am blessed with a practice that will at least pay the bills and allow me to continue to do some of what we are supposed to do for retirement. I pray that all of our membership will at least remain stable during these trying times.

Speaking of Washington, I am a believer that as United States citizens, we should exercise our collective right to vote. Although I am frustrated with both political parties and I wish there was a viable third party, I will still vote in this year’s general election. On November 4th, you will find me at my polling site, doing the only thing I know I can do to effect change: I will vote for the individuals I feel will do the best job possible for our country. I hope it is your plan to vote on Election Day. Some of my clients have told me they will not vote. If you find yourself of a similar mindset, I urge you to reconsider, even if it is for no other reason than to stand up and voice your opinion. Remember, we are but a blessed few who have the opportunity and privilege to stand up and shape the future of our nation.

t After that conversation, I am sure it will be a fun event for those who attend. Remember, the first 35 KCVMA members to register receive two complimentary tickets. There is also a $15 per person cover charge paid at the door. Additional friends and family can purchase tickets for $35 each. The evening could even make a fun holiday outing for your clinic staff. Please fax back the form found on the insert to register.

The Kansas City Star recently approached the KCVMA for assistance with their new pet website, http://pets.kansascity.com. They wanted an “ask the expert” veterinarian to answer questions posted by the website’s users. The Star representative and I spoke at length, and I suggested that we utilize the expertise of our entire membership as contributors to a feature simply called “Ask A Veterinarian.” The Star has made it easy for us to get involved. Those interested can register on the website and answer any questions posted. There are no obligations or fees for us and we are welcome to mention (and link to) our clinic affiliation when answering a question. The board feels this would be a good way to promote our profession locally. You never know when someone on the KC Star Pet site will see your response to a question and follow up with a visit to your clinic. The website launched October 12th.

If you have ever considered becoming a member of the KCVMA board, your time may be coming. There will be a first year Missouri position opening up on January 1st. If you are interested, or would like to nominate someone you think would do a great job, please call me at 816-616-2349 or e-mail me at lkovac@kcvma.com.

My time as President is drawing to a close, and I’m left to think about this year and my role in the KCVMA. I joined the board several years ago for a new challenge. More than once I had to ask myself if I really wanted to move up to the presidency. Once I decided to do so, I experienced the inevitable feeling of, “What did I get myself into?” I am glad I did not back out. Although the board positions are not real political offices, they can have their challenges and do have responsibilities. I have grown and learned from my board membership. I use what I have learned not only in my practice but also in my daily life. I hope you have enjoyed my letters. One year ago I wondered what I would write about and if I could make it worthwhile and interesting. With a good editor, I got through the letters and several of you even commented to me about them. I thank you for that, and I encourage each of you to think about joining the KCVMA Board at one time or another in your respective careers.

As I close, I leave you with this. Please think about hiring a Cristo Rey student and introducing them to veterinary medicine. These bright kids are the future, and they’re excited to learn from us. Also, consider teaming up with Kansas City Animal Control by licensing the pets that live in Kansas City. And finally, if your travels take you to Europe, please consider a side trip to the Adriatic Coast of Croatia. This is the country of my ancestors and words cannot express the true beauty of the country and the people. Thanks again, Larry Kovac.

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