Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting an exclusive AUA (Animal Ultrasound Association), in-person echocardiography course at our ultrasound lab in Bromley, led by Catherine Stowell, Matt Travis and Prof. Virginia Luis Fuentes. This course was designed to offer a fully hands-on experience, focusing on both feline and canine echocardiography. Unlike other courses, we skipped the lectures and went straight into practical scanning, providing attendees with real-world skills they could immediately apply in their veterinary practices.

A Global Audience

We were thrilled to welcome a diverse group of attendees, including professionals from the US, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, and across the UK. The international turnout underscored the growing interest in echocardiography within the veterinary community, and it was exciting to see participants with varying levels of experience come together to refine their skills. The event served not only as a learning experience but also as an opportunity to connect and network with other veterinary professionals passionate about ultrasound.

Real-World Training with Live Patients

What truly set this course apart was its focus on practical, hands-on training. Working with live animals is a critical aspect of mastering echocardiography, and we were fortunate to have several, generous dog and cat breeder friends who volunteered their time and animals for the day. Their contribution allowed our participants to gain invaluable experience in scanning real patients, closely mirroring the situations they encounter in their everyday practice.

The day’s structure provided personalised instruction throughout, ensuring that each attendee received tailored feedback and guidance. Prof. Virginia Luis Fuentes, Catherine and Matt were all on hand for one-on-one mentorship, offering insights into both common and challenging scenarios encountered in veterinary cardiology.

Attendee Enthusiasm and Continued Engagement

We were particularly pleased with the high level of enthusiasm from our attendees. The atmosphere was energetic, with participants fully engaged in scanning throughout the day. One participant even returned to our ultrasound lab the next day to further practice and discuss what he had learned—a testament to the value of the hands-on approach.

Welcoming Scanners of All Levels

While this event was exclusive to veterinary professionals, we want to remind you that we’re always open to welcoming scanners of all levels and abilities to our ultrasound lab for advice. Whatever stage you are at, our team is here to help. If you have queries or reservations about any aspect of ultrasound scanning, we encourage you to visit us.

We’re happy to set up a session to talk through any concerns you might have, from the basics of ultrasound to more advanced topics. Our goal is to provide personalised support for veterinary professionals and paraprofessionals at every stage of their careers, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence needed to excel.

A Successful Day of Learning

Overall, the course was a resounding success, thanks in large part to our dedicated attendees, the leadership of Prof. Virginia Luis Fuentes, Catherine and Matt, and the generosity of the dog and cat breeders who made their animals available for scanning. We’re proud to have offered such a valuable learning opportunity and look forward to continuing to support the veterinary community through hands-on training and expert mentorship.

If you’re interested in attending future courses, or would like to visit our lab for a chat, please get in touch.