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Accelerated Emergency Program

ISVPS Foundation Certificate (FCert)
  • Modular Program, Online Learning
Overview
Modules
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Accelerated Emergency Program

Gain confidence in your management of emergency cases and take your ECC skills and knowledge to the next level.

This industry-leading veterinary CPD program has been developed by a team of ECC specialists and covers the latest diagnostic tools and up-to-date treatment guidelines, allowing you to confidently manage your emergency patients.

Each of the 15 modules unpacks key veterinary emergency topics that are relevant and applicable to the everyday clinical setting. Covering topics like blood gases and acid-base analysis, triage, ophthalmological emergencies, and intoxications, this in-depth program will help to further develop your skills and knowledge in ECC.

Who is it for?

Whether you’re a GP vet who wants to feel more confident with afterhours cases or you’re looking to transition into emergency practice, this program will help you to gain the foundation emergency skills to approach your patients with confidence and competence.

Gain a Postgraduate Qualification

This program is accredited with the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) meaning you can work towards the following globally-recognised qualifications while you study:

Foundation Certificate in Emergency and Critical Care (FCertECC) 

By attending the full online structured program and following successful assessment, including an exam, you can gain the Foundation Certificate (FCert) in Emergency and Critical Care awarded by the ISVPS.

All ISVPS registration and examination fees are included in the course fees. For all enquiries about ISVPS requirements, contact [email protected].

Course Highlights

  • 15 Varied Modules covering key clinical emergency topics
  • Developed by ECC Specialists: Created by ANZCVS Members and Fellows
  • Four ECC Specialists seminars throughout your program
  • Dedicated Program Coordinator: To help you every step of the way
  • 12 months program access: Work through the content at your own pace
  • 100% Online: Interactive and engaging modules allow you to study when you want
  • Enrol Anytime: Join at a time that suits you – no waiting for the next program intake!
  • ISVPS Accredited: Work towards a globally-recognised postgraduate qualification (FCertECC)
  • RACE Accredited: 80 CPD points
Accelerated Emergency Program
  • Enrol Anytime
  • Duration: 12 months
  • 15 Online Modules + 4 ECC Specialist Seminars
  • RACE Accredited: 80 CPD points
  • ISVPS Foundation Certificate in Emergency & Critical Care
  • Online
  • Price: AU $4,950.00 incl GST
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Learning Modules

Modules

Module 1: Blood Gas and Acid-base Analysis

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Outline the steps involved in the identification and interpretation of acid base disorders
  • Identify one of four primary disorders and any compensatory mechanisms or secondary disorders.
  • List the causes of respiratory acidosis, respiratory alkalosis, metabolic acidosis and metabolic alkalosis
  • Calculate the anion gap and use it to identify causes of metabolic acidosis
  • Describe the management of acidaemia and alkalaemia.
  • Discuss the physiology of lactate production, its use as a marker of perfusion and the relationship to base excess (BE).
  • Describe the pathophysiology underlying the two main types of hyperlactataemia and other potential causes
  • Outline oxygenation in terms of arterial blood oxygen (PaO2), ventilation, perfusion and V/Q mismatch
  • Recall the physiological causes of low blood oxygen (hypoxaemia) and disease processes causing hypoxemia.
  • Calculate the adequacy of oxygenation using the P:F ratio and A-A Gradient
  • Describe the assessment of ventilation in relation to PCO2 and the 120 rule

Module 2: Shock and Intravenous Fluids

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this modules students should be able:

  • Define shock and the physiological causes
  • Explain circulatory shock in terms of hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, obstructive shock
  • Outline findings in the stages of shock – compensatory, decompensatory, end-stage
  • Describe the principles of fluid therapy – including the glycocalyx, Starlings law & formation of interstitial oedema.
  • List the goals of fluid therapy in terms of perfusion parameters, dehydration correction and treatment of circulatory shock
  • Demonstrate how to assess the degree of dehydration
  • List the types of intravenous fluids and their indications for use
  • Construct a fluid plan to correct hypovolaemia, dehydration, ongoing losses and maintenance
  • Explain indications for bolus and shock fluid rates
  • Describe monitoring and perfusion end points for fluid therapy.
  • List the potential complications of fluid therapy
  • List considerations in perioperative fluid therapy

Module 3: Electrolytes

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • List the main serum electrolytes which need to be monitored and clinically managed
    • sodium
    • calcium
    • potassium
    • phosphate
  • Recall normal reference ranges for each electrolyte
  • Recall the common causes of abnormal decreases in each electrolytes
  • Recall the common causes of abnormal increases in each electrolytes
  • Describe the common clinical signs and pathological changes seen with derangements of each electrolytes
  • Recognise severity of clinical signs in relation to extent of electrolyte derangement
  • Discuss hypernatremia and hyponatremia in terms of volume status
  • List the appropriate management and treatment for the common electrolyte disturbances
  • Recall the specific calculations used in the management and treatment of sodium disorders

Module 4: Clinical Pathology and Focused Ultrasound

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module the student should be able to:

  • Differentiate the various components of a complete blood count
  • Outline the interpretation a complete blood count.
  • Outline appropriate differential diagnoses for abnormalities in the complete blood count.
  • Describe how to perform a blood smear and be able to evaluate findings.
  • Interpret a serum biochemistry profile and outline appropriate differential diagnoses for abnormalities.
  • Identify factors that may affect clinical pathology results in terms of animal breed, sample artefact and laboratory artefact
  • Describe aFAST and tFAST techniques.
  • Outline the abdominal fluid scoring system
  • Describe and outline the VetBLUE including the acoustic windows
  • Identify lung ultrasound signs – A lines, B lines, glide sign
  • Describe likely disease processes from VetBLUE using the regionally based respiratory pattern
  • Describe focused echocardiography and it’s uses

Module 5: Anaesthesia and Analgesia

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Outline the pathophysiology of the pain pathway and describe the main neurotransmitters
  • Recall the three types of pain.
  • Identify how to assess pain in terms of the physiological signs and behavioural signs
  • Recall use of pain scales in the dog and cat.
  • Define multimodal analgesia and pre-emptive analgesia
  • Describe the basic pharmacology for commonly used analgesics, their advantages and disadvantages and important considerations.
  • Select appropriate analgesic agents for different trauma situations.
  • Outline the advantages and disadvantages of two common sedatives and their important considerations.
  • List the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used anaesthetic agents.
  • Recall considerations for anaesthetic drugs based on common emergency presentations and surgeries.

Module 6: Triage and CPR

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Identify the important components of a triage assessment
  • Explain the primary triage survey in the initial assessments and stabilisation of cardiovascular, respiratory and neurological parameters
  • Discuss life sustaining interventions and use of point of care diagnostics
  • Explain the secondary triage survey and the assessments required after initial stabilisation
  • List the clinical signs of cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA)
  • Explain basic life support and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  • Describe CPR and recommended techniques for chest compressions and ventilatory support
  • Describe monitoring devices used in advanced life support and explain the importance of the main parameters in CPR
  • Identify shockable and non-shockable rhythms in CPR and how to treat these.
  • Expand upon the indications and doses of common medications administered during CPR.

Module 7: Haematological and Coagulopathy Emergencies

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Explain the cell-based model of coagulation
  • Describe the pathophysiology of primary haemostasis
  • Recall the main disorders of primary haemostasis
  • Identify the clinical signs associated with primary haemostatic disorders
  • Discuss the diagnostic tests and treatments for primary haemostatic disorders
  • Recall the three pathways involved in the coagulation cascade.
  • Identify the clinical signs associated with secondary haemostatic disorders
  • Discuss the diagnostic tests for and treatment of secondary haemostatic disorders
  • Outline the primary mechanisms of anaemia
  • Describe the clinical signs of anaemia, diagnostic tests and the treatment of anaemia.

Module 8: Cardiovascular Emergencies

Learning Objectivves

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Briefly explain the pathophysiology of congestive heart failure in relation to the common cardiac diseases of the dog and cat
  • Describe the common clinical signs seen with cardiac disease
  • List the diagnostic tests used to evaluate and assess patients with suspected cardiac disease
  • Outline the medical treatments and therapeutic procedures used in the emergency management of a cardiac patient
  • Explain the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) and its importance in maintenance of blood pressure
  • Describe the common clinical findings seen with hypertension in dogs and cats
  • Describe the common clinical findings seen with hypotension in dogs and cats
  • List the diagnostic tests used to assess and evaluate blood pressure
  • Outline the medical treatment options for hypotension and hypertension in dogs and cats
  • Outline the aetiology, diagnosis and management of FATE (Feline Aortic Thromboembolism)

Module 9: Respiratory Emergencies

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Define hypoxaemia , the common causes, relevance in respiratory physiology
  • Define hypoxia , causes and relevance in terms of respiratory physiology
  • Describe the difference between ventilation and oxygenation measures and explain V/Q mismatch
  • List relevant measures for assessment of ventilation and oxygenation including PaO2, SpO2, PaCO2, FiO2
  • Explain the oxyhaemoglobin dissociation curve
  • Explain the PF ratio in terms of lung function assessment
  • Detail a diagnostic approach for a patient presenting in respiratory distress
  • Detail a treatment plan for a patient presenting in respiratory distress
  • List a range of common disease states of the respiratory system that can present as emergencies

Module 10: Urogenital Emergencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Describe the regulation systems of potassium homeostasis
  • List the causes and consequences of hyperkalemia
  • Discuss the treatment and management of hyperkalemia
  • Discuss the causes and consequences of uroabdomen
  • List the tests and procedures used in the diagnosis of uroabdomen
  • Discuss the management and treatment options for uroabdomen
  • Discuss Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)including the causes, clinical signs and diagnosis
  • Describe the treatment options for FLUTD
  • Discuss acute kidney injury in terms of kidney functions and pathophysiological changes
  • List the veterinary staging systems for acute kidney injury
  • Describe the differential diagnosis for acute kidney injury in terms of pre-renal, renal and post-renal causes
  • Discuss the treatment, management and monitoring of acute renal injury

Module 11: Ophthalmological Emergencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Describe how to perform a complete ophthalmic assessment
  • Discuss the ophthalmic assessment in terms of gross examination techniques
  • Discuss the ophthalmic assessments in terms of specialised examination techniques
  • List the required equipment and drugs required for a complete ophthalmic assessment
  • Describe the aetiology and clinical signs of the common ophthalmic emergencies below:
  • Discuss the diagnostic workup of the common ophthalmic emergencies below:
  • List the treatment and management of specific ophthalmic conditions below:
    • Corneal ulcer/laceration
    • Descemetocele
    • Uveitis
    • Glaucoma
    • Horner’s Syndrome
    • Proptosis

Module 12: Neurological Emergencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Discuss the functional regions of the brain and their neurological assessments
  • List the localisation of a brain lesion in relation to the assessments and deficits
  • Discuss the functional regions of the spinal cord and their neurological assessments
  • List the localisation of a spinal lesion in relation to the assessments and deficits
  • Describe how to perform a neurological examination
  • Discuss primary and secondary traumatic brain injury including mechanisms of intracranial pressure increases
  • List the clinical assessments for traumatic brain injury including the Modified Glasgow Coma Scale
  • Discuss the tiered and specific treatments of traumatic brain injury
  • List the diagnostic workup of patients presenting with seizures and status epilepticus
  • Discuss the specific treatments of seizures, including status epilepticus
  • List the diagnostic workup of patients with suspected intracranial disease
  • List the specific treatments meningitis or meningoencephalitis and the breeds commonly affected

Module 13: Abdominal Emergencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • List the commonly associated history, clinical signs and examination findings in acute abdomen presentations
  • Discuss the principles of the general diagnostic workup for an acute abdomen presentation
  • Describe the principles of immediate treatment for an acute abdomen presentation
  • Discuss Acute Pancreatitis – the pathophysiology, clinical signs, workup and treatment
  • Discuss Acute Gastroenteritis – aetiology, clinical signs, differential diagnoses, workup and treatment
  • Discuss Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV) – the pathophysiology, clinical signs and diagnostic workup
  • List the initial management and surgical considerations of GDV
  • List the post-operative management and monitoring of GDV patients
  • Discuss Acute Non-Traumatic Haemoabdomen – the pathophysiology, clinical signs, workup and management

Module 14: Endocrine Emergencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Discuss the pathophysiology of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
  • Describe the clinical signs, work-up and diagnosis of DKA
  • List the common electrolyte, acid-base and fluid derangements see in DKA
  • Discuss the treatment of DKA including insulin regimes, fluid therapy, electrolyte supplementation and monitoring
  • Discuss hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS), the potential causes, how to calculate serum osmolarity and treatment of HHS
  • Discuss the pathophysiology of glucose regulation in the body and causes of hypoglycaemia
  • Describe the clinical signs, work-up and diagnosis of hypoglycaemia
  • Discuss the treatment of hypoglycaemia
  • Discuss the pathophysiology of primary and secondary hypoadrenocorticism
  • Describe the clinical signs and diagnostic work-up of hypoadrenocorticism
  • List the common clinical abnormalities present in hypoadrenocorticism – including electrolyte, clinical pathology, diagnostic imaging and adrenal-axis testing
  • Discuss the emergency treatment and management of patients in ‘Addisonian Crisis’.
  • Discuss Critical Illness Related Corticosteroid Insufficiency Syndrome

Module 15: Intoxications

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module students should be able to:

  • List the preliminary questions asked in phone triage of suspected intoxications
  • Discuss the various decontamination methods including emesis, use of activated charcoal, gastric lavage, dermal decontamination and enhanced elimination
  • Describe the complications and contraindications of the above methods
  • Discuss metaldehyde intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss synthetic pyrethrin intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss lily plant intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) intoxication including pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss chocolate/caffeine intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss ‘serotonin syndrome’ including the related drugs, the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss ethylene glycol intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring
  • Discuss grape and raisin intoxication including the clinical signs, diagnosis, stabilisation, decontamination, specific treatment and monitoring

Supplementary Australian Module: Intoxications

Learning Objectives

At the end of this modules students should be able to recall

  • Elapid Snake  – list the common venom effects and clinical signs for the major species, diagnosis & specific & supportive management
  • Paralysis Tick (ixodes holocyclus) – list the common clinical signs & specific and supportive management
  • Cane Toad (Rhinella Marina) – list the common clinical signs, diagnosis & specific and supportive management

Global Seminars

Seminar 1 Fundamentals of Transfusion Therapy

Presented by Dr Claire Sharp BSc BVMS MS DACVECC 

Seminar 2 Approach and Management of the Seizuring Emergency Patient

Presented by Dr Kerry Doolin

BSc BVSc MVetMed DACVECC MRCVS American Recognised Specialist in Emergency and Critical Care

Seminar 3 The Fundamentals of Managing the Dystocia Patient

Presented by Dr Rob Webster BVSc (Hons) FANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)

Seminar 4 The Fundamentals of CPR (RECOVER) session

Presented by Dr Kerry Doolin

BSc BVSc MVetMed DACVECC MRCVS American Recognised Specialist in Emergency and Critical Care

 read more

*Please note: Module order may be subject to change

Hear from previous delegates

Dr Elli Michaelidou

Being a recent graduate I sometimes found myself being intimidated when it came to dealing with emergency cases. That all changed when I came across the Accelerated Emergency Program! The fun and easy-to-follow modules thoroughly covered various subjects, and during the course we were provided with all necessary theory, alongside supporting videos, to prepare us for each week’s new module. By the end of the program I was able to collectively organise all my knowledge in such a way which allowed me to be more confident in managing any kind of emergency that would come through the door. I honestly cannot recommend it enough!

Dr Tiffany Yung

I would highly recommend the Accelerated Emergency Program because it is a great stepping stone into the ECC field of work. All the tutors are very knowledgeable and cover theory based questions as well as real cases, which definitely helps consolidating what I’ve learnt from each module. I am wanting to be more confident in handling emergency cases as a recent graduate and this has definitely helped.

Dr Nada Blagojevic

I came to my current role straight from university, and the Accelerated Emergency Program went beyond theory to cover material applicable to the cases I see day-to-day. I learned about physiology as well as medicine, which is invaluable as an emergency veterinarian.

Dr Brittany Malzard

I use my notes from the Accelerated Emergency Program every single day in clinical practice.

Dr Sally Whitwell

The Accelerate Emergency Program provides a full spectrum of information in a simple to understand format and access to fantastic mentors who know the content very well. Although it is targeted for emergency, as a primarily GP vet I still have found this resource incredibly valuable. I feel I have a more in depth understanding of these topics and am much less stressed in the workplace. Highly recommend for those in the emergency and GP field.

Program Developers

Dr Amelia Allen
Dr Amelia Allen
 BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Emergency and Critical Care)
Dr Amelia Allen

Dr Amelia Allen

 BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Emergency and Critical Care)
Dr Amelia Allen is an emergency Veterinarian in at our Underwood practice in Brisbane’s south-east. Amelia is driven by her passion for helping sick animals to get better and finds her fascination in the science behind vet medicine to be a key driver in her dedication to her career. Her pathway to emergency medicine was a result of her thirst to learn more. Amelia has some memorable stories from the emergency room. Her most unusual case to come through was a cat whose misadventure involved swallowing a $2 coin. Amelia loves her job and is often amazed at an animal’s ability to recover. She recalls one patient that was close to death – suffering from severe shock and electrolyte abnormalities. Within a few hours under the care of AES staff, the patient was up and about and walking – for Amelia it was an incredible recovery to witness.
Dr Danielle Huston
 BVSc (Hons) MVS (Small Animal Practice) MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)

Dr Danielle Huston

 BVSc (Hons) MVS (Small Animal Practice) MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)
Despite a life-long love for our furry friends, Veterinary Science wasn’t Dr Huston’s first dream. As a young child, she dreamt of becoming a dancer. These dreams were [fortunately] shattered at around 11 years of age by her mother’s statement following a dance recital, “She looked like an elephant trumpeting across the stage”. From there on out, becoming a vet was it. Danielle graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 2010. She had already been working for Animal Emergency Service in Underwood as a vet nurse for two and a half years at this point and was cunning enough to con the Veterinary Manager into keeping her on as a new graduate intern. She remained working at Underwood AES for three and a half years before making the sea change to the Sunshine Coast, where she works at the Tanawha practice. Danielle has graduated with a Masters in Small Animal Clinical Practice through Murdoch University and passed her Membership in Emergency and Critical Care. The Huston family consists of three cats, Delilah and Theodore, both of whom were strays through our clinics and remained unclaimed at the pound, as well as her latest edition to the family: Zachary – also a stray cat through work. There are also three dogs in the Huston household, Tallulah and Pippa, both mixed breeds from rescue organisations, and Penelope the dalmatian – who was a surprise of her husband! Their primary roles and responsibilities include keeping the bed warm, keeping the couch soft and comfy, eating anything they can get their paws on (occasionally resulting in trips to work with mum), occasionally donating blood, posing for ultrasound training and selfies, long walks along the beach for the dogs, and midnight acrobatics for the cats. Oh, and keeping dad company whilst mum works. Emergency and Critical Care is a passion for Dr Huston, and she is exceptionally proud to be a part of such an amazing team providing after hours care to the animals of the Sunshine Coast. The variety of cases we treat with the combination of medical and surgical management keeps things exciting, and us always on our toes. Travel is Danielle’s favourite past time – anything from 4wd-ing weekends away to international adventures. She believes the only way to fully experience any culture is through food and drink, and the success of any holiday can be measured in kilos gained. Moving to the Sunshine Coast has allowed her love of the great outdoors to blossom, with hiking adventures a favourite and a necessity to undo the damage done on previously mentioned holidays.
Dr Emily Ireland
BVSc MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)

Dr Emily Ireland

BVSc MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)
Growing up with animals from a young age I always knew I wanted to be a vet - even from 6 years old! I spent a lot of my childhood on a beef cattle property and originally pictured myself making a career as a mixed practice vet. Graduating from JCU in 2014, I commenced working in mixed practice for 3 years in North Queensland before later feeling the need for my next challenge. This brought me back to JCU in 2018 where I commenced a medicine internship and found my passion for critical care, transferring into the Emergency and Critical Care department to commence life living on "the dark side." I obtained my Memberships in ECC in 2019 and soon relocated to Brisbane to commence working at Animal Emergency Service. I love the fast-paced, busy environment working in Emergency and have a hunger for knowledge, constantly wanting to improve to deliver the best possible care for my patients. With the challenge of both complex medical and surgical cases I officially live and breath everything ECC. I couldn't imagine myself doing anything else!
Dr Oriana Leong 
BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Emergency and Critical Care)

Dr Oriana Leong 

BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Emergency and Critical Care)
Dr. Oriana Leong is an Emergency Veterinarian at the Gold Coast practice of the Animal Emergency Service. She discovered her passion for Emergency and Critical Care during the early years of her veterinary study. Oriana graduated from the University of Queensland in 2013. She started working in an emergency practice as a new graduate and has gained essential clinical experience through these years within the industry. Oriana attained her memberships in Emergency and Critical Care in 2017 and became part of the AES family. She has a keen interest in all things critical care as well as diagnostic imaging, particularly ultrasonography. She loves the collaboration between the different departments in a multi-disciplinary specialist hospital as well as general practices to attain the best possible outcome for a patient. In 2018, Oriana spoke at the annual ANZCVS Science Week conference regarding her publication on “Severe acute pulmonary haemorrhage and haemoptysis in 10 dogs following Eastern Brown Snake envenomation” in Toxicon. Outside of work, Oriana spends her free time with her two feline friends, Popcorn and Pancake, enjoying some couch and TV time. She is a self-declared “Foodie” and enjoys exploring all kinds of cuisines.
Dr Philomena Kwong
 BVSc (Hons) MVS (Small Animal Practice)

Dr Philomena Kwong

 BVSc (Hons) MVS (Small Animal Practice)

Dr Philomena Kwong is an emergency vet based at Animal Emergency Service in Underwood, just 30 minutes from Brisbane in Queensland. Having always gravitated to animals for as long as she can remember, Philomena sent her early years in Hong Kong – a concrete jungle where wildlife in most parts of the city was limited to sparrows, pigeons and rats. Philomena used to escape reality by immersing herself in endless animal documentaries.

Philomena’s first real encounter with animals was at her grandmother’s house, who lived in one of the few remaining villages in Hong Kong. It was commonplace for these households to keep cats to keep the mice/ rat population down, and since neutering and spaying wasn’t common practice back then, there was always a lot of unwanted kittens. Cat flu was rampant due to the high level of stress as a result of scarcity of resources and the dense population. Young kittens would often succumb to cat flu and the mortality rate was high. As a child, Philomena felt helpless not being able to do anything. After hearing of veterinarians treating sick animals, she was determined to be a vet one day. At the time, Philomena was six years old.

Originally wanting to volunteer at the University of Queensland Veterinary clinic (St Lucia) when she was a third year vet student, Philomena wasn’t able to do this due to her study workload – mostly during the day. Instead, Philomena started volunteering at an emergency clinic that operated from the same building after hours. When she saw the type of critical and challenging cases, Philomena knew she could never settle for anything less than working in emergency veterinary care.

When asked about her most meaningful case, Philomena was quick to tell us of a cat that presented to her with third degree chemical burns to almost 50% of its body, including some first degree burns to his tongue and a chemical induced pneumonia. “To this day he was one of the most critical patients I have treated; everything was touch and go for the first couple of weeks, not knowing whether he would pull through. It really highlighted to me the importance of practicing gold standard emergency and critical medicine to give our patients the best outcome possible. It took him a little over 8 weeks to recover, including repeat surgeries to remove the devitalised skin. But he made it, and has an impressive scar to tell the tale. Seeing the smile on the owner’s face when this cat finally went home is the reason why I’ll always be an emergency and critical care vet.”

Dr Sara West
BVSc BAppSc (Vet Tech) MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)

Dr Sara West

BVSc BAppSc (Vet Tech) MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)
Dr Sara has always had a love for animals and science, so a career in veterinary science was the perfect way to combine these two loves into a career. She graduated from a Veterinary technology degree in 2007 and worked as a veterinary nurse before starting her Veterinary science degree. During her Veterinary degree she was able to work as an emergency nurse which really cemented her passion for the field. After graduating Veterinary Science she spent almost 2 years in small animal general practice before coming back to the field of Emergency and critical care where her true passion lies. “The team at AES are amazing, as both friends and colleagues. Continuing education is prioritised and gold standard medicine is expected. There is always someone there for you when you need them. We are like a very big family. Emergency can be incredibly emotional and stressful. We see pets and owners at their greatest time of need and we have to be there for both of them. It is comforting to know that I can rely on my team to do their absolute best to get our beautiful patients healthy and well and back home to their pet parents.” Her level of knowledge is admired by her peers and she is able to think on her feet when managing complex medical cases. Her love of surgery is clear and her skills are what excellent. She is also not afraid to ask for help when a confusing case walks through the door and she cares so much for her patients and her clients. Sara’s communication skills are valued by clients and other medical staff – she is fearless and calm in the face of difficult clients and explains what is required in each consult well. As a person, she is a joy to work with and brings the humour to tough situations and is a rock to rely on during a tough shift.
Dr Vanessa Grose
BVSc MVM

Dr Vanessa Grose

BVSc MVM
Dr Vanessa Grose was schooled in Brisbane with school holidays spent on a sheep and cattle property near Dirranbandi. Animals have always been a huge part of her life. “We had a big hobby farm with every animal imaginable over the years.” Dr Grose always wanted to be a vet but at the end of high school she felt it was unattainable and started a Bachelor of Science. It soon became evident there was nothing else she wanted to do so after completing her Science degree, she enrolled in to vet school. “During vet school I worked with a General Practice and as an Emergency Nurse at AES. Working as a nurse was invaluable and set me up well for graduation.” Vanessa went on to work in general practice for a few years and in 2014, she commenced with Animal Emergency Service. “The stars aligned and I have not looked back. I love emergency medicine, being at the forefront of best practice medicine and continually learning. Saving lives gives me purpose.” When not at work, Vanessa likes sleeping “my most favourite past time”, training and studying.
Dr Rob Webster
Dr Rob Webster
BVSc (Hons) FANZCVS
Dr Rob Webster

Dr Rob Webster

BVSc (Hons) FANZCVS
CEO Animal Emergency Australia Rob graduated from University of Queensland in 2000, went into emergency medicine and never left. He is a founding partner of the Animal Emergency Service (2005). He commenced residency training (2006-2012) in emergency and critical care under the supervision of Professor Steve Haskins, attaining FANZCVS qualifications in 2014. Rob is a registered specialist and one of only 5 Fellows of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Emergency and Critical Care. Rob works with multiple business partners to develop Animal Emergency Service into an organisation which helps veterinary professionals fulfill their dreams. The group has 6 emergency and critical care hospitals and a dedicated intensive care unit (Pet ICU). The company partnered with Improve International in 2018 with a shared aim of delivering exceptional veterinary education and training. As well as veterinary business, Rob continues to work as an emergency veterinarian, supervises a resident training program in emergency and critical care, participates in collaborative research projects, and teaches EMCC to veterinarians and veterinary students across Australia. Rob’s dreams are to see tick paralysis eliminated as a cause of death of dogs and cats in Australia, and for Animal Emergency Service to be the place emergency vets come to save the sickest pets and build the future of emergency medicine and critical care.
Dr Gerardo Poli
BVSc (Hons Class 1) MVS (Small Animal Practice) MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)

Dr Gerardo Poli

BVSc (Hons Class 1) MVS (Small Animal Practice) MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)
Gerardo completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland in 2008, graduating with first-class honours and being awarded year valedictorian. He moved on to spend 3 years in small animal practice, transitioning into emergency and critical care with the Animal Emergency Service, where he is now an AES veterinary director. In 2012 Gerardo achieved Membership with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Emergency and Critical Care and for 3 years held position of head Membership examiner for ECC. He also completed his Masters of Veterinary Studies in Small Animal Practice through Murdoch University. Gerado’s interest in teaching saw him move into a clinical training role with AES, so he could help vets transition into emergency practice. He became the coordinator of the AES Internship Program and in collaboration with the clinical training team, the AES Accelerated Emergency Program was developed. Gerardo continues to have a strong interest in the management of critically ill patients, diagnostic imaging and emergency surgery and he works with Improve International Australia as the AEP curriculum developer and advisor.

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Full Payment Upfront: Total payable AU $4,950 inc GST

New Graduate Discount: Total payable AU $4,000 inc GST*

All prices are inclusive of compulsory 10% GST & ISVPS registration & examination fees.

*T&Cs apply.

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Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Please find the terms and conditions here.

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FAQ

What are the eligibility criteria for the Accelerated Program?

To enrol in the full program and work towards your Foundation Certificate in Emergency & Critical Care you must be a graduated Veterinary Surgeon. It is the responsibility of the delegate to ensure you meet the program entry criteria.

Please call our team on (07) 3244 1650 or email [email protected] if you are unsure, and we can help assess your suitability for the program.

How and when can I enrol in the Accelerated Program?

You can enrol at any time throughout the year. Just click on the “Enrol Now” button at the top of this page, pay your invoice and you will receive your online logins.

How much study time will I need to allocate to the program?

You should allocate approximately 4 hours for each of the modules. Some may require more time, and some will require less. You can work through the 15-module program at your own pace throughout your 12 months full program subscription.

When are the Program Modules released?

The 15 online modules are released weekly, meaning the full program is released over 15 weeks. You can move onto specific modules without completing the prior modules (if there are certain topics you want to upskill in). Please see the “Modules Tab” at the top of this page for more information on each module.

Tell me about the Global Webinar series.

Throughout your 12-month subscription you will be invited to four live Specialist Global Webinars. Each of these will cover a different foundational emergency topic and are additional content to the Accelerated Emergency Program. There will be opportunity to ask questions and engage with the presenters.

What if I am unable to attend a Global Webinar session?

All the live Webinars will be recorded and be made available on the learning platform within five days of completion. You will be able to access and view these at any time during your 12-month subscription. You also have access to a library of past specialist webinars.

What is the qualification can I achieve?

The Accelerated Emergency Program is the accredited training for the Foundation Certificate in Emergency and Critical Care (FCert(ECC)) awarded by the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS).

The Foundation Cert is achieved by fully completing the Accelerated Emergency Program and by successfully passing the designated ISVPS assessment.

All the program modules – including pre and post module assessments, viewing of the platform materials and reading of content notes, are a requirement for eligibility to sit the ISVPS examination for the Foundation Certificate. Attendance and viewing of the Global Webinar sessions are not a requirement.

ISVPS examination fees are included in your program fees.

The examination and assessments are managed by the team at ISVPS. If you have specific questions about the certification process please reach out to the ISVPS team by emailing [email protected] or by visiting their website www.isvps.org

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IN PARTNERSHIP​

Established as a company in 1998 by a group of dedicated veterinary surgeons. Improve Veterinary Education has now expanded across the globe with offices in the UK, Europe and around the world.

Our mission is to offer high quality training to veterinarians, vet nurses and vet technicians in Australia and New Zealand.

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