Purina Institute to share cardiology nutrition research
Dr Libby Sheridan, Purina's scientific affairs manager
The Purina Institute will share the latest updates on the diagnosis and management of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in a free symposium on Wednesday June 23.
In the symposium participants will be offered valuable clinical insights and be presented with ground-breaking new research on the role of nutrition in helping to support the ailing heart. The event will run from 6pm to 7.25pm on Wednesday June 23, and will count for 1.5 hours of CPD.
The symposium will include globally recognised speakers, including Dr John Bonagura, specialist in cardiology and internal medicine, who will share his knowledge on the diagnosis and management of MMVD in dogs.
Dr Bonagura's talk will cover highly clinically relevant topics, including how to relate disease pathology to the findings on cardiac auscultation, and also how to establish management approaches for the different stages of MMVD.
Following the presentation from Dr Bonagura, participants will the hear from world-class specialist in nutrition and independent consultant Dr Dottie Laflamme. Dr Laflamme's talk will provide insights on nutritional management in canine heart disease and explain how the latest research indicates that key nutrients can slow the progression of MMVD in its early stages.
These latest insights into the role of nutrition are based on cutting-edge metabolomics research conducted by Purina scientists. This research and subsequent clinical data will be discussed by Dr Laflamme, and participants will learn how dietary modification could form part of a comprehensive management plan for MMVD patients. There will also be a chance to ask questions in a live Q&A following the talks.
Dr Libby Sheridan, Purina scientific affairs manager for the UK and Ireland, said: “MMVD is seen very commonly in practice, so this topic is really relevant for vets and nurses.
“Traditionally dietary support for heart disease has centred on sodium restriction. This latest research is very exciting as it opens up possibilities for dietary support on a much more comprehensive scale. We’re delighted to offer this free symposium to help professionals keep up to date with the latest advances so they can provide the best possible care.”
The symposium will run live from 6pm to 7.25pm on Wednesday June 23, and the full agenda and attendance is available here: purinainstitute.com/events
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
