If you are having trouble logging in to your account, it may be a pop-up issue. Click here for more information.

The CVMA office will be closed on Monday, June 15, 2026. 

CVMA Webinar

Snakebite Envenomations: They Are Not Just Bad Bee Stings

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.

Course Description

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 2 CEUs.

Speaker

Ken Pawlowski, DVM

Dr. Ken Pawlowski graduated from UC Davis in 1996. After a few years in practice, he and his wife Kristi opened two Banfield Pet Charter Hospitals (franchises), which they sold back to Banfield in 2016. In 2020, they opened Insight Veterinary Wellness Center in El Dorado Hills, California, a large hospital that includes primary care and 24/7 emergency care. In 2024, they partnered with a friend in a small group of hospitals in Northern California called VetnCare, for which Dr. Pawlowski is now the director of strategic growth and development. 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.

Date & Time

September 9, 2026

5:30 PM -7:30 PM (PST)

Pricing

Sponsored By

Skip to content