Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey

Welcome to episode #53 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In Part 1 of our Viral Poultry Diseases series, we review Marek’s disease, infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease), and infectious bronchitis. We’ll break down the cause, transmission, clinical signs, lesions, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of each disease, with a focus on the high-yield associations you’re most likely to see on the NAVLE. If poultry viral diseases tend to blur together while you're studying, this episode will help you focus on the hallmark clues that separate them. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #52 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, we review five important ferret diseases: adrenal gland disease, insulinoma, lymphoma, epizootic catarrhal enteritis (ECE), and canine distemper virus. We’ll break down the signalment, hallmark clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention for each disease. From symmetrical alopecia and hormonal changes with adrenal disease, to hypoglycemia and episodic weakness with insulinoma, green diarrhea with ECE, and hyperkeratosis and severe respiratory disease with canine distemper, this episode will help you keep these commonly tested ferret diseases straight. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #51 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In Bovine Abortions Part 2 (link to part 1 below!), we continue our review of important causes of bovine abortion with BVDV, Brucella abortus , Leptospira, and Epizootic Bovine Abortion (EBA) . We’ll cover the NAVLE clues for each disease, including persistently infected calves and congenital abnormalities with BVDV, late-term abortions and zoonotic concerns with brucellosis, reproductive disease and milk production changes with leptospirosis, and the classic western foothills + Pajaroello tick association with EBA. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Bovine Abortions (part 1): here! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #50 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode of NAVLE Nuggets , we review four important infectious diseases of chickens: fowl cholera, infectious coryza, Mycoplasma gallisepticum (chronic respiratory disease), and infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT). From sudden death and septicemia with fowl cholera, to facial swelling with infectious coryza, chronic respiratory disease and conjunctivitis with Mycoplasma gallisepticum, and severe dyspnea with bloody mucus in ILT, this episode will help you organize these commonly confused poultry diseases into an easy-to-remember framework. We'll break down the cause, transmission, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of each disease, with a focus on the high-yield clues you'll want to recognize on exam day. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #49 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Starting veterinary school is exciting, but figuring out what you actually need to bring, buy, and pack can feel overwhelming (and expensive!). In this episode of, we’re breaking down everything you actually need for veterinary school ; from laptops and backpacks to clinical equipment, study supplies, clinic essentials, and the little things that make long days more manageable. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! SHOW NOTES: Tingley Over Boots on Amazon Follow us on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor @heartmossfarm Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #48 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode of NAVLE Nuggets , we're tackling four of the most important infectious causes of arthritis in pigs: Glaesserella parasuis, Streptococcus suis, Mycoplasma hyorhinis, and Mycoplasma hyosynoviae . Learn how to confidently differentiate these diseases based on the pig's age, clinical presentation, and characteristic lesions, while also reviewing how to treat and prevent them. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #47 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, I'm joined by Brandon Duncan , a rising second-year veterinary student at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (VMCVM), as we share the advice we wish every incoming veterinary student heard before their first day of class. From finding your support system to building healthy study habits, getting involved, maintaining life outside of vet school, and embracing the inevitable learning curve, we discuss the lessons that have shaped our own journeys and the things we wish we had known from the very beginning. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow us on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor @brandonxtargaryen Linked In: @Grace Gaynor @Brandon Duncan

Welcome to episode #46 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode of NAVLE Nuggets , we're breaking down four important reportable ovine/caprine diseases : Scrapie, Border Disease, Bluetongue, and Heartwater Disease . Learn the hallmark clinical signs, transmission routes, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the high-yield board pearls that make these diseases easier to remember. From "hairy shaker" lambs to biting midges , prions , and tick-borne bacteria , this episode simplifies a commonly tested food animal topic into an easy-to-follow review. Stay tuned until the end for a rapid-fire quiz to test your knowledge and reinforce the key concepts. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #45 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, we differentiate Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE), Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (VEE), and West Nile Virus . We'll break down each disease's cause, transmission, hallmark clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention, while highlighting the key features that help you distinguish them on exams and in clinical practice. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #44 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Through clinical cases, memory tricks, and quiz questions, you'll learn how to differentiate five of the most important abortion diseases in cattle: Trichomoniasis ( Tritrichomonas foetus ), Campylobacteriosis ( Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis ), Listeriosis, Leptospirosis, and Neosporosis ( Neospora caninum ). From repeat breeders and early embryonic death to abortion storms, persistently infected calves, spoiled silage, and the role of farm dogs in disease transmission, this episode simplifies the hallmark clinical signs, transmission routes, diagnosis, prevention, and NAVLE pearls that will help these diseases stick. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #43 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, you'll learn how to differentiate the six major equine parasites every veterinary student should know: small strongyles (cyathostomins), large strongyles ( Strongylus vulgaris ), tapeworms ( Anoplocephala perfoliata ), pinworms ( Oxyuris equi ), bots ( Gasterophilus spp.), and ascarids ( Parascaris spp.). From larval cyathostominosis and cranial mesenteric artery migration to ileocecal colic, tail rubbing, bot fly eggs, and pot-bellied foals, this episode breaks down the hallmark clinical signs, life cycle highlights, diagnosis, treatment, and high-yield NAVLE pearls in an easy-to-remember format. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #42 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, you'll learn how to differentiate canine and feline heartworm disease and understand why these infections look so different between species. We'll cover the life cycle of Dirofilaria immitis , hallmark clinical signs, diagnostic testing, treatment protocols, and prevention, which can frequently appear on veterinary school exams and the NAVLE. Whether you're studying for the NAVLE, preparing for a block exam, or just looking for a quick review, this episode is packed with practical, high-yield information to help reinforce key concepts. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #41 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, we break down four of the most common causes of feline upper respiratory disease: Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), Bordetella bronchiseptica, and Chlamydia felis. If you've ever struggled to remember which pathogen causes corneal ulcers, oral ulcers, severe conjunctivitis, or coughing, this episode is for you. Through clinical cases and memory tricks, you'll learn how to quickly differentiate these commonly tested diseases and build a strong diagnostic approach to the sneezing kitten. Whether you're studying for the NAVLE, preparing for a block exam, or just looking for a quick review, this episode is packed with practical, high-yield information to help reinforce key concepts. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #40 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Applying to veterinary school or scholarships and feeling unsure about how to ask for a letter of recommendation? You're not alone. In this episode, we break down The 5 C's of Securing a Strong Letter of Recommendation, a simple framework to help pre-veterinary students approach the process with confidence and professionalism. Whether you're preparing your VMCAS application, applying for scholarships, or building relationships that will support your future career, this episode will give you the tools to secure stronger, more meaningful letters of recommendation. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #39 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Join us for the first installment of NAVLE Nuggets , a fun, and informative veterinary medicine review series designed for veterinary students preparing for exams, clinics, and the NAVLE. In this episode, we break down four common developmental orthopedic diseases seen in young dogs: Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD), Panosteitis, Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), and Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head) . Learn how to differentiate these conditions based on signalment, clinical signs, radiographic findings, and treatment recommendations, and stay until the end for a quiz! Whether you're studying for the NAVLE, preparing for a block exam, or just looking for a quick review, this episode is packed with practical, high-yield information to help reinforce key concepts in veterinary orthopedics. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #38 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this special solo episode, Grace shares the lessons, surprises, and realities she wishes someone had told her before starting veterinary school. Whether you're a pre-vet getting ready to start your veterinary school journey, a current student looking for reassurance that you're not alone, or simply curious about what life in vet school is actually like, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and encouragement. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review – it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #37 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Today, we welcome Cole Shapiro back to the podcast. As a recent graduate of the Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Cole joins us for a discussion on the new 2026 VMCAS guidelines for the veterinary school personal statement. We read and reflect on three unique personal statements , exploring the different approaches successful applicants have taken to tell their stories. Whether you're just starting your application or polishing your draft, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and practical tips to help you craft a compelling personal statement of your own. Show Notes: Previous Personal Statements Episode Emi Jones' Episode If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review – it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow us on Social Media! Instagram: @grace_gaynor @bacon_man7 Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #36 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, first year veterinary student at VMCVM Tiana O'Neill returns to the show to explore a side of veterinary medicine that often sparks strong opinions, but deserves more open conversation: the independent pet food industry and the role it plays in shaping client trust. Before entering veterinary school, Tiana owned a specialty pet food store and co-owned a dog training and grooming business, giving her a unique perspective on how pet owners make decisions, and why those decisions are often rooted in something deeper than just nutrition. For many clients, food is an expression of love, and understanding that emotional connection is key to building stronger relationships in the exam room. Together, we discuss the disconnect that can exist between veterinarians and pet owners when it comes to nutrition, where trust can break down, and how communication plays a critical role in bridging that gap. Tiana shares insights from her experience in the independent pet food space, what veterinarians may be overlooking, and how we can approach these conversations with more empathy, curiosity, and collaboration. This episode challenges listeners to think beyond traditional recommendations and consider how trust is built in everyday interactions with clients. Whether you’re a veterinary student, practicing clinician, or simply interested in the human side of veterinary medicine, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how we can better connect with the people we serve. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! SHOW NOTES: Previous Episode with Tiana about balancing motherhood and veterinary school! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #35 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, Dr. Dan Phillips from Mission Pet Health shares his journey to veterinary medicine, and how he went from a small animal rotation internship to building Vet Mentor Solutions to becoming a medical director. In his current role as Director of Academic Partnerships, Dr. Phillips teaches and mentors veterinary students across the country. We discuss what strong mentorship actually looks like, how to evaluate it when choosing your first job, and the red flags students should be paying attention to during the job search process. He also offers practical advice on building confidence and setting yourself up for success early in your veterinary career. Whether you’re preparing to graduate or just starting to think about your career path, this conversation provides honest insight and actionable guidance to help set you up for long-term success in veterinary medicine. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor

Welcome to episode #34 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, first year veterinary student Tiana O'Neill joins me for a deeply honest conversation about navigating veterinary school as a mother, and what it really takes to balance both. Tiana shares what her life looks like managing the demands of vet school while being physically away from her children during the week, making regular five-hour trips home to Maryland just to spend time with them. Together we discuss the guilt, the sacrifices, and the resilience that comes with pursuing a demanding career while raising a family. Tiana also reflects on the support systems that make it possible, the lessons she’s learned along the way. This episode is a powerful reminder that there is no single path through veterinary medicine, and that it’s possible to chase your goals while still showing up for the people who matter most. Whether you’re a parent, considering vet school, or simply trying to balance life and career, this conversation offers perspective, honesty, and encouragement for the journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor