The American Association of Equine Practitioners’ (AAEP) 55th Annual Convention will take the stage in Las Vegas, Neveda, December 5–9, as the world’s most distinguished continuing education meeting for equine veterinarians.

The convention attracts more than 3,500 veterinarians, veterinary students and technicians for scientific lectures, industry forums, networking events and other opportunities for professional development. All sessions will be held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

Dr. Nathaniel A. White II, convention program chair, and the AAEP Educational Programs Committee have developed a comprehensive scientific program to cover a wide range of relevant veterinary topics. This year’s program features business education sessions, new research on lameness in racehorses, and in-depth lectures on critical care and pain management. Also available to attendees are four optional dry labs and an ultrasound wet lab.

The Frank J. Milne State-of-the-Art Lecture will feature internationally recognized orthopedic surgeon Dr. Larry Bramlage presenting "Operative Orthopedics of the Equine Fetlock Joint: Fractures, Fragments, Failures and Fixes." The popular Kester News Hour will return with Drs. Scott Palmer, Margo Macpherson and Bonnie Rush.

Other meeting highlights include:
— The AAEP Trade Show: Running for three days during the convention, more than 300 exhibitors will display products and services for the veterinary industry.

— Fifth Annual American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians Convention: The two-day program for technicians includes lectures, roundtable discussions, case studies and wet labs.

— Student Luncheon and Avenues Internship/Externship Career Night: The Student Luncheon will offer roundtable discussions on topics of importance to future practitioners. The annual Avenues Internships/Externship Career Night connects students with practices for potential career opportunities.

— AAEP Foundation Celebration and Auction" Practitioners will kick back with their colleagues to the music of country recording artist Tracy Lawrence. The night also features a silent and live auction to benefit the AAEP Foundation.

To learn more about the convention or to register online, visit www.aaep.org/convention.htm. Media credentials are available upon request. The credential request form can be downloaded from the AAEP website. For assistance, please contact the AAEP office at (859) 233-0147.