On December 13, Planned PEThood of Georgia partnered with United Spay Alliance to host a High-Quality, High-Volume Spay/Neuter (HQHVSN) surgical training focused on large female dog spays. This hands-on wet lab provided advanced instruction for our in-house veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and surgical assistants—strengthening the entire medical team behind our lifesaving work.
While Planned PEThood delivers HQHVSN services every day, this training reflects our continued commitment to professional development and surgical excellence. Canine spay procedures can be complex due to wide variations in size, weight, and anatomy. Dedicated training time allows our team to refine techniques that improve efficiency, enhance patient safety, and support consistent surgical flow—benefiting every animal we serve.
“Every opportunity for veterinarians to sharpen their skills is also an opportunity to increase community capacity,” said Brianna Lovell Myers, Executive Director of United Spay Alliance. “Planned PEThood’s dedication to strengthening their own team is exactly the kind of leadership that improves access to care for pets who need it most.”
The wet lab was led by Dr. Emi Kooyman of Spay Neuter Vets in Alpharetta and Dr. Mary-Elizabeth Ellard, both highly experienced HQHVSN surgeons. Participants gained practical, repeatable experience and received continuing education (CE) credit through the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA).
We are grateful to United Spay Alliance, our expert trainers, and a generous anonymous donor whose support made this training possible- advancing sustainable, community-centered spay/neuter solutions across Georgia.
