CVMA webinars are convenient interactive presentations offering CEUs held in real-time. This learning platform allows you to participate from anywhere with internet access—from your practice, your home, or anywhere you have an internet connection. Attending is as easy as a few mouse clicks. You will only need internet access and either computer audio, a headset, or a telephone.
This webinar is open to veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary hospital staff, and veterinary students only.
This session is geared towards general practitioners and emergency veterinarians looking to better understand the principles of treatment of snakebite envenomation, especially the use of antivenom, and those unfamiliar with current standards of care of snakebite envenomations. We will explore venomous snake species, symptoms and effects of envenomation, and initial treatment recommendations for supportive care and pain control. The session will also cover inappropriate treatment and the contraindications for using steroids, antihistamines, NSAIDs, and prophylactic antibiotics, as well as the mid-to-long-term effects of envenomation—such as necrosis, devitalization, and sloughing of tissue—especially in cases with delayed and inappropriate treatment. Lastly, we will review the controversial rattlesnake vaccine, including its history and recent articles evaluating its efficacy. Does it have significant potential benefits, or is it snake oil that can actually make things worse?
This course qualifies for 1.5 CEUs.
Dr. Ken Pawlowski graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, after which he went to work for a relatively new and small practice called VetSmart, which would later become Banfield. After six years as an associate, Dr. Pawlowski and his wife Kristi opened a Banfield hospital in Folsom, California and, five years later, a second one in Lincoln, California. Dr. Pawlowski and Kristi opened Insight Veterinary Wellness Center in El Dorado Hills, California in 2020. Dr. Pawlowski has served as the CVMA President and on the CVMA Board of Governors, House of Delegates, and numerous committees and task forces. He has also served on the AVMA’s Political Action Committee board and Council of Biologic and Therapeutic Agents.
Over the years, Dr. Pawlowski has developed a special interest in the treatment of rattlesnake bites and a passion for educating veterinarians in the appropriate treatment of rattlesnake envenomations. He has lectured on this topic at the American Veterinary Medical Association and Western Veterinary Conferences.
September 9, 2026
12:30 PM–2:00 PM (PST)
| CVMA Members | Non-Members |
|---|---|
| Veterinarians: $60 RVT/Veterinary Staff: $40 Veterinarian/RVT Students: $25 | Veterinarians: $120 RVT/Veterinary Staff: $80 Veterinarian/RVT Student: $35 |
Registration for this event closes on September 7, 2026.
CVMA members receive discounted registration for continuing education. If you are not a member, join now to take advantage of this and many other member benefits.
This course qualifies for interactive learning CE.
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