New Fellow Spotlight

Founding Fellow Spotlight: Jane Sykes, BVSc (Hons), PhD, MPH, MBA, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Founding)

Michelle — Mon, 04 May 2026 17:26:14 +0000

Founding Fellow Spotlight: Jane Sykes, BVSc (Hons), PhD, MPH, MBA, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Founding) Michelle Mon, 4 May 2026 - 10:26

Establishing a recognized program like this requires buy-in from many people and organizations, including specialty colleges, institutions, service team members, technicians, and the Candidates themselves. Overcoming these challenges has required clear written definition of a rigorous, structured fellowship training program and getting buy-in from all the people and organizations that need to be involved.
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What drove you to want to become a Founding Fellow of the ��TV? Is there a story or experience that stands out in your mind that reaffirmed your decision to follow this path?

I’ve really been working toward this for my entire veterinary career. I developed an interest in clinical infectious diseases (ID) of dogs and cats as a vet student, in part because of some inspiring faculty members at the University of Melbourne. That led me to do a PhD on feline upper respiratory tract pathogens. As I delved into the literature, I realized how an understanding of equivalent human diseases could be used to advance knowledge of herpesvirus and chlamydial infections in cats – and vice versa.

During my residency at the University of Minnesota, I was exposed to more ID cases than I ever imagined and became a kind of “go-to” person for ID advice. I thought about how great it would have been to be able to do an ID fellowship after my residency, similar to programs that existed in human medicine.

Because of Minnesota’s reputation for expertise in nephrology and urology, I learned about Larry Cowgill’s hemodialysis fellowship program at UC Davis. I thought maybe one day, something like that could be created for ID. I started on faculty at UC Davis and began attending weekly fellow ID case conference rounds at UC Health.

I founded the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID) in 2006 and started designing an ISCAID fellowship program, using the program at UC Health as a model. Thanks to funding from industry and support from our Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), I was able to start training fellows at UC Davis. It definitely helped that UC Davis’s VMTH had a history of training large numbers of residents across diverse specialties and already had established fellowship training programs, like the hemodialysis fellowship.

As President of the ��TV Specialty of Small Animal Internal Medicine, I also started talking to ��TV about creating fellowship programs. As other specialty colleges like ACVS and ACVO moved towards fellowships, the idea of an ��TV-recognized fellowship program seemed increasingly in reach. Most of all, my decision to follow this path has been reaffirmed by seeing my fellow Candidates grow over the course of their training, seeing the associated improvements in patient care, and hearing positive feedback from animal owners, my colleagues, and my fellow Candidates.

What do you see as the advantage(s) of ��TV-approved Fellowship Programs/fellowship-level training as a whole?

Because of advancements in our understanding of animal diseases and increased owner demand for care that’s equivalent to that provided for humans, there’s more opportunity for ��TV Diplomates to develop expertise in specific disciplines within their specialty, beyond that obtained from a residency training program. ��TV Fellowship programs allow for such advanced training. We have opportunities to create fellowship training programs in infectious diseases, interventional cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, respiratory medicine, hematology, and neurosurgery.

The advanced knowledge and expertise of these ��TV Diplomates can mean the difference between life and death of an animal that is highly valued by an animal caregiver. The human-animal bond makes such an important contribution to public health. Expertise in infectious diseases is particularly important because it impacts the health of not only dogs and cats, but the people they live with.

Were there any specific challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has related to the definition of a “fellow” in veterinary medicine, which has conflicted with that in human medicine. In the veterinary profession, fellowships have been anything from a few weeks of clinical experience, research experience, or a year of focused clinical training in a focused area. In contrast, most human medical fellowships in the United States are rigorous, highly structured, full-time 2-year programs overseen by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).

Establishing a recognized program like this requires buy-in from many people and organizations, including specialty colleges, institutions, service team members, technicians, and the Candidates themselves. Overcoming these challenges has required clear written definition of a rigorous, structured fellowship training program and getting buy-in from all the people and organizations that need to be involved. It’s involved convincing hospital leadership and donors to support such programs, then recruiting, training, and retaining talented and motivated veterinarians. I’m immensely grateful to my colleagues at the University of California Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Health, Natasha Hunt (a wonderful and dedicated dog owner) and the Judith McBean Foundation, and ��TV for their commitment to supporting such programs–this couldn’t have happened without them.

What advice do you have for those aspiring to become ��TV Fellows?

Identify your passion and strive to become an expert by studying the veterinary and human medical literature and obtaining practice experience. Seek out great mentors in both human and veterinary medicine. Practice scientific writing and verbal communication skills and use them to contribute to advancement of knowledge in your field.

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Learn more about the ��TV Fellowship Program

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About the Author:

Dr. Jane Sykes is a Professor at the University of California, Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine and a Board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist with a special interest in infectious diseases. Her research interests are focused on infectious diseases of dogs and cats of public health significance; she has published over 150 peer-reviewed scientific publications and is the editor of several textbooks on canine and feline infectious diseases, including Greene’s Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat. She founded the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID) in 2006 and has held several leadership roles in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (��TV), including President and Board Chair of the ��TV as a whole. She is also the Director of the UC Davis Center for Continuing Professional Education, speaks internationally on infectious diseases and post-graduate veterinary specialty education, and is the “Ask A Vet” columnist for the Washington Post.

New Fellow Spotlight: Brianna Potter, DVM, D��TV (Cardiology), F��TV (Interventional Cardiology)

Michelle — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:06:45 +0000

New Fellow Spotlight: Brianna Potter, DVM, D��TV (Cardiology), F��TV (Interventional Cardiology) Michelle Mon, 16 Mar 2026 - 12:06

This is an exciting and transformative time in veterinary medicine, with many disease processes for which expanded procedural options are needed and a growing demand for specialists committed to advancing the field. For ��TV Diplomates considering fellowship training, a fellowship can offer a unique opportunity to deepen subspecialty expertise and meaningfully shape long-term career direction.
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What drove you to want to become a Fellow of the ��TV? Is there a story or experience that stands out in your mind that reaffirmed your decision to follow this path?

I greatly valued my residency training at Colorado State University, where I developed a strong interest in pursuing a career in academic cardiology. In addition to this academic focus, I found cardiac catheterization and interventional procedures to be particularly compelling and recognized that these would be essential components of my future clinical practice and research. When the fellowship opportunity became available, it represented a natural and logical progression in my training, offering the opportunity to further develop expertise in interventional cardiology while gaining experience as an attending cardiologist in the clinical setting and contributing to didactic instruction.

What do you see as the advantage(s) of ��TV-approved Fellowship Programs/fellowship-level training as a whole?

The fellowship provides a structured pathway for advanced training beyond residency, allowing individuals to function as specialists while continuing to benefit from mentorship within an academic environment. It also offers established specialists the opportunity to pursue further subspecialized training within their area of expertise. As more fellows are trained, these programs will contribute to the continued advancement of the standard of care in veterinary medicine, ultimately benefiting both patients and future trainees.

Were there any specific challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them?

Although I did not encounter any major challenges during my fellowship, the final year prompted a period of meaningful reflection as I considered the next step in my career. The fellowship helped me gain a deeper appreciation for the opportunities for teaching, mentorship, and clinical practice available within academia. I also recognized that an academic environment offers the greatest access to advanced technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research opportunities.

What advice do you have for those aspiring to become ��TV Fellows?

This is an exciting and transformative time in veterinary medicine, with many disease processes for which expanded procedural options are needed and a growing demand for specialists committed to advancing the field. The fellowship was highly influential in shaping my professional development and played a pivotal role in establishing the foundation for my early career. For ��TV diplomates considering fellowship training, a fellowship can offer a unique opportunity to deepen subspecialty expertise and meaningfully shape long-term career direction.

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Learn more about the ��TV Fellowship Program

New Fellow Spotlight: Kursten Pierce, DVM, D��TV (Cardiology), F��TV (Interventional Cardiology)

megan — Tue, 13 May 2025 21:27:20 +0000

New Fellow Spotlight: Kursten Pierce, DVM, D��TV (Cardiology), F��TV (Interventional Cardiology) megan Tue, 13 May 2025 - 14:27

For me, being immersed in a collaborative, forward-thinking heart team was incredibly inspiring. The hands-on exposure to interventional and hybrid procedures, CT angiography, and open heart surgeries gave me a level of experience I couldn't have gained anywhere else. It pushed me to grow not just as a clinician, but also as a future mentor and educator.
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What drove you to want to become a Fellow of the ��TV? Is there a story or experience that stands out in your mind that reaffirmed your decision to follow this path?

It was during my cardiology residency that my passion for interventional procedures developed. The more hands-on experience I gained, the more I realized how rewarding it was to directly intervene via a blood vessel and improve an animal’s heart disease. Correcting or palliating life-limiting conditions with catheters, guidewires, and devices is both technically challenging and deeply fulfilling, as it can significantly improve an animal’s quality of life and survival.

After completing my residency, I worked at a private practice specialty hospital. Although it was a worthwhile experience, I missed the cath lab and the unique challenges of interventional procedures. That’s when I attended Dr. Brian Scansen’s ��TV course on interventional cardiology. The course reignited my passion for procedures and reaffirmed my desire to deepen my expertise in this field. During this course, I learned about the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at Colorado State University and I knew it was the perfect opportunity to immerse myself in advanced techniques and cutting-edge procedures. It was clear that this fellowship would allow me to refine my skills, work with world-class mentors, and provide the highest level of care to my patients while gaining the expertise needed to train future cardiologists.

What do you see as the advantage(s) of ��TV-approved Fellowship Programs/fellowship-level training as a whole?

��TV-approved Fellowship Programs offer the chance to really dive deep within a focused area of a specialty. As a resident, you get exposure to the full scope of cardiology, but a fellowship lets you hone in on specific, advanced areas of the field. For me, that meant gaining extensive hands-on experience in interventional cardiology, which is what I’m most passionate about. These programs allow you to work closely with leaders in the field, develop technical skills, and participate in complex procedures that aren't always accessible in residency. Beyond the procedural training, fellowships also prepare specialists to teach, mentor, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the profession. What makes these programs so valuable is their emphasis on excellence and their role in supporting a deep commitment to the highest standards of clinical practice, innovation, and patient care.

Were there any specific challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them?

Making the leap from private practice to a fellowship was a big transition, especially after leading my own clinical cardiology service. Returning to a trainee mindset and relocating across the country was certainly daunting at first. The fellowship came with some long days and emotionally challenging cases. As clinicians, it’s never easy when we can’t save a patient; however, those cases stay with you and often shape you the most. While successful outcomes are deeply rewarding, it's the difficult cases that push us to reflect, grow, and refine our practice. Every procedure and patient I encountered during the fellowship reaffirmed why I’m passionate about this field. Despite the challenges, the long-term rewards, both professionally and personally, far outweighed the short-term sacrifices.

What advice do you have for those aspiring to become ��TV Fellows?

Fellowship training is truly a life-changing experience. You’ll see complex cases, perform advanced procedures, and work alongside experts who are deeply passionate about their specialty. For me, being immersed in a collaborative, forward-thinking heart team was incredibly inspiring. The hands-on exposure to interventional and hybrid procedures, CT angiography, and open heart surgeries gave me a level of experience I couldn’t have gained anywhere else. It pushed me to grow not just as a clinician, but also as a future mentor and educator. So my advice? Go for it! It’s one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll make in your career.

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Learn more about the ��TV Fellowship Program

New Fellow Spotlight: Krystle Reagan, DVM, PhD, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Infectious Disease)

megan — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:53:18 +0000

New Fellow Spotlight: Krystle Reagan, DVM, PhD, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Infectious Disease) megan Mon, 17 Mar 2025 - 13:53

As clinicians, we all have encountered cases that challenge our knowledge and expertise, and in these moments, having access to someone with years of dedicated training may make all the difference. A fellowship program allows me to master a niche corner of medicine, and therefore, they can offer unique insights.
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What drove you to want to become a Fellow of the ��TV? Is there a story or experience that stands out in your mind that reaffirmed your decision to follow this path?
I have always been drawn to infectious diseases. I remember reading “The Hot Zone” when I was in high school, and I was hooked! After my internal medicine residency, I wanted to have more dedicated time to focus on these complex cases and learn from the leaders in the field. Doing a fellowship in infectious disease allowed me to accomplish those goals.

What do you see as the advantage(s) of ��TV-approved Fellowship Programs/fellowship-level training as a whole?
��TV-approved fellowship programs provide an invaluable opportunity for highly specialized training in internal medicine. As clinicians, we all have encountered cases that challenge our knowledge and expertise, and in these moments, having access to someone with years of dedicated training may make all the difference. A fellowship program allows one to master a niche corner of medicine, and therefore, they can offer unique insights. Further, ��TV-approved fellowship programs may help make that level of training more accessible for diplomats by making them aware this type of training is available, thus enhancing the overall knowledge base and resource pool for the veterinary community.

Were there any specific challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them?
One of the most challenging aspects of veterinary medicine is recognizing and communicating to clients when no good treatment options are available to help their pet. As an infectious disease fellow, I developed strong relationships with dedicated pet owners who would sometimes bring their animals in every day for weeks to receive antifungal treatments or undergo multiple in-depth diagnostics. It’s difficult to walk alongside these clients, sharing their hope and commitment, only to reach a point where no good treatment options exist. Guiding clients through these moments and helping them navigate the tough decision to stop can be emotionally taxing. However, I have found that one silver lining amidst these tough cases is the opportunity to learn from every patient. I always take time to reflect on what worked and what didn’t, and I use these experiences to improve my approach for future cases or build future research questions.

What advice do you have for those aspiring to become ��TV Fellows?
If you are passionate about an area of medicine and want to have protected time to grow your skill set, network with leaders in the field, and set yourself up for future success, don’t hesitate!

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Learn more about the ��TV Fellowship Program

New Fellow Spotlight: Jocelyn Mott, DVM, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Feline and Canine Diabetes)

sd_dev — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:06:35 +0000

New Fellow Spotlight: Jocelyn Mott, DVM, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Feline and Canine Diabetes) sd_dev Tue, 16 Jul 2024 - 13:06

I have been able to explore comparative aspects of diabetes by attending pediatric endocrinology rounds, shadowing pediatric endocrinologists and collaborating on comparative research studies. The fellowship has opened up so many doors to me and given me a new career path.
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What drove you to want to become a Fellow of the ��TV?
I had always been interested in pursuing further training especially in diabetes. However, after spending many years in private practice, I was afraid I would not be a competitive applicant. After an initial chat with Dr. Chen Gilor about the fellowship, my fears and doubts were allayed and confirmed my decision to go for it.

What do you see as the advantage(s) of ��TV-approved Fellowship Programs/fellowship-level training as a whole?
There are so many advantages – strong mentorship, participation in research, teaching opportunities and specialized training. With the Diabetes Institute in Gainesville, FL, I have also been able to explore comparative aspects of diabetes by attending pediatric endocrinology rounds, shadowing pediatric endocrinologists and collaborating on comparative research studies. The fellowship has opened up many doors to me and given me a new career path.

Were there any specific challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them?
The strong and positive mentorship I received during my fellowship really helped me to deal with any challenges. I also made the decision at the beginning to try and take every opportunity offered to me even when it was well outside my comfort zone. I think that decision allowed me to just accept challenges as they came and do my best..

What advice do you have for those aspiring to become ��TV Fellows?
Just go for it! And it is never too late in your career to do a fellowship. It can add so much to your current career path and open up all kinds of doors that might not otherwise have been available to you.

Learn more about the ��TV Fellowship Program

New Fellow Spotlight

Founding Fellow Spotlight: Jane Sykes, BVSc (Hons), PhD, MPH, MBA, D����TV (SAIM), F����TV (Founding)

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Founding Fellow Spotlight: Jane Sykes, BVSc (Hons), PhD, MPH, MBA, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Founding)

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New Fellow Spotlight: Kursten Pierce, DVM, D��TV (Cardiology), F��TV (Interventional Cardiology)

New Fellow Spotlight: Krystle Reagan, DVM, PhD, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Infectious Disease)

New Fellow Spotlight: Jocelyn Mott, DVM, D��TV (SAIM), F��TV (Feline and Canine Diabetes)