ABOUT THIS COURSE
Join us for 3 full days of lecture and laboratories focused on soft tissue procedures such as gastropexy, splenectomy, and intestinal resection and anastomosis. Learn how to systematically explore the abdomen and improve visualization in order to avoid complications and optimize success. We will also practice additional soft tissue surgeries, including anal sacculectomy and sialoadenectomy. Participants will use instruments such as vessel-sealing devices and staplers to increase efficiency and reduce patient morbidity. The program also includes a full day dedicated to amputation procedures (limb, tail, digit) and performing an FHO on both dogs and cats. Instructors bring extensive experience from private practice and academia, using interactive clinical presentations to introduce laboratory procedures and provide applied context for perioperative management. Our team includes specialists in small animal surgery and critical care, offering multiple perspectives on pathology, patient stabilization, and surgical technique. Participants will have ample time in the laboratory to practice procedures on cadavers with guidance from ACVS- and ACVECC-certified instructors.
Essential Surgical Procedures: Gastrointestinal -Otomies & -Ectomies
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
| Gain confidence performing gastrointestinal procedures such as gastrotomy, intestinal resection & anastomosis, and gastropexy. |
| Gain confidence with amputations (limb, tail, digit), soft tissue mass removals and skin defect closure. |
| Practice the approach to the hip and learn how to perform an FHO. |
| Learn techniques for anal sacculectomy and management of salivary mucocele. |
| Gain confidence with triage and stabilization of trauma patients. Practice procedures such as placement of central lines, autotransfusion, and feeding tubes. |
LAB INSTRUCTORS
Nancy Zimmerman, DVM, MS, DACVS
Ingar Krebs, DVM, DACVS-SA
HOTEL AND TRAVEL TIPS

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS
Make your trip to the Viticus Center easier with preferred hotel rates, convenient transportation options, and everything you need to know before you arrive.
Preferred Hotel Rates Available
Viticus Group participants receive special lodging discounts at our preferred partner hotels near the Viticus Center. Use Corporate Account Code 3458691 when booking.
BOOKING YOUR HOTEL STAY
Hampton Inn - Las Vegas Strip South
Visit the hotel website and begin your reservation. Under Special Rates, enter 3458691 in the Corporate Account field.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Strip South
Visit the hotel website and begin your reservation. Under Special Rates, enter 3458691 in the Corporate Account field.
DINING & REFRESHMENTS
- Preferred partner hotels offer a hot breakfast buffet beginning at 6 a.m. Viticus Group does not serve breakfast.
- Hot and cold beverages and snacks are available in the Viticus Center lobby during your course.
- Lunch is provided during full, 8-hour lab days.
- Have dietary restrictions? Email Academy@viticusgroup.org before your course so our catering team can prepare accordingly.
WHAT TO BRING
- Closed-toe shoes are required during labs.
- Scrubs are available upon arrival if needed.
- Bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler indoor spaces.
- Pack sunscreen for time outdoors in Las Vegas.
- Bring a phone charger or portable power bank.
- Carry a valid photo ID with you while traveling in Las Vegas.
AIRPORT & HOTEL TRANSPORTATION
Airport Pickup:
Hotel airport pickup is available upon request, 24 hours a day. Once you have retrieved your luggage, contact your hotel for shuttle pickup instructions and the designated waiting location.
Hotel to Harry Reid International Airport:
Reserve your return shuttle at the hotel front desk. Shuttles typically run once per hour, and guests should sign up at least 2 hours before their desired departure time.
SHUTTLES AND TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION
Viticus Group provides complimentary transportation between our preferred partner hotels and the Viticus Center during your course.
Daily Shuttle Service
Morning shuttle service is provided from our preferred partner hotels before the start of your course. At the end of each course day, shuttle service will return you to your hotel.
Last-Day Transportation
On the final day of your course, transportation is available to Harry Reid International Airport or back to your preferred partner hotel. Complimentary luggage storage is available at the Viticus Center during the course day.
Driving Yourself?
If you are a Las Vegas local or plan to drive yourself, please arrive at the Oquendo or Eastern Campus at least 30 minutes before your course start time.
Please refer to your course agenda and email updates for specific shuttle departure and transportation times.
OTHER TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
Public transportation options in Las Vegas are limited. If you are staying somewhere other than one of our preferred partner hotels, you will be responsible for arranging transportation to and from the Viticus Center.
Rental cars, taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available throughout Las Vegas. If renting a vehicle, keep in mind that Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and other Strip properties may charge for parking.


