The Purina Institute is continuing its “Creating Collaborative Care Through Nutrition Conversations” webinar series for veterinary health care teams. The fourth annual series will consist of four sessions in 2025, occurring on Thursdays, May 15, July 17, Sept. 11 and Dec. 4.
The webinars aim to provide practical advice for veterinary professionals on engaging clients in nutrition discussions related to common pet health conditions.
Purina has locations in Bettendorf, Clinton and Davenport.
According to the Purina Institute, research indicates that veterinarians are pet owners’ most trusted source for nutrition advice. A survey found 78% of pet owners consider nutrition expertise an important factor in their satisfaction with a veterinary clinic.
Dr. Natalia Wagemans, global head of the Purina Institute, noted that only about 1 in 5 veterinary professionals proactively offer nutrition advice during most client visits. She suggested this indicates a potential underestimation of the importance of nutrition and missed opportunities for counseling.
Launched in 2021, the webinar series seeks to bridge this gap by providing guidance on incorporating nutrition into the medical, nutritional and behavioral management of common cat and dog health issues. The 60-minute webinars will cover these topics:
- May 15: “Don’t Forget the Diet: Incorporating Diet Into Daily Dermatology Case Management.”
- July 17: “Comprehensive Management of Feline Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Part 2.”
- Sept. 11: “Implementing a Successful Weight Loss Program.”
- Dec. 4: “Nourishing Bonds: How to Prevent and Address Food Aversions in Pets.”
Dr. Andrew Sparkes, an independent veterinary consultant and the series moderator, said each webinar involves two specialists or experts discussing a specific health topic using clinical cases, providing an overview of medical and nutritional management and emphasizing communication with pet owners about nutrition. The webinars are approved for one hour of continuing education credit by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards’ Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE).
Veterinary professionals interested can find more information and register at purinainstitute.com/events.
