Greetings,
I hope you all enjoyed a restful and productive few months. The FVMA has been hard at work advocating for our profession, and I am pleased to share several important updates.
Through the tireless eff orts of our Legislative Committee, we are close to resolving two key issues in our state. First, following productive discussions with the attorney general’s office, xylazine has been exempted from controlled status for veterinary use. Second, in collaboration with the Florida Board of Pharmacy, we are working to ensure that veterinarians in Florida may continue dispensing compounded medications. Th is progress is a direct result of our collective advocacy, and we remain engaged with legislators as we prepare for the upcoming legislative session in January. I strongly encourage you to support our eff orts by contributing to the FVMA PAC, which enables us to be a powerful and united voice for veterinary medicine in Tallahassee.
I am also proud to report on the continued growth and utilization of the “Inspire by FVMA” program. Our second class of Wellbeing Champions is now underway, and we are deeply grateful to our program’s underwriter, Blue Buffalo, for its ongoing support. Promoting the wellbeing of our members—as well as every veterinary team in Florida—remains one of our core values.
Applications are now open for the 2026 FVMA Power of 10 Program. Th is initiative builds leadership capacity by engaging young veterinarians in a yearlong series of seminars, meetings, and activities designed to strengthen their knowledge, professional skills, and connection to the veterinary community. As a graduate of this program, I can personally attest to the invaluable impact it has on both professional and personal growth, and I encourage eligible colleagues to apply.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone who attended the Gulf-Atlantic Veterinary Conference (TGAVC) in Tampa. It was inspiring to connect with so many passionate members of our profession. Th e FVMA Education Committee remains dedicated to delivering cutting-edge continuing education (CE) in a collaborative and supportive environment.
It is an honor to serve as your president. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the FVMA if we can be of assistance to you or your practice.
Sincerely,
Dr. Thomas Hester