Board oks planning for $1.6 million facelift

MINNEAPOLIS — The American Veterinary Medical Association's (AVMA) Executive Board took one more step in a proposed $1.6-million remodeling plan.

The board gave the go-ahead to secure drawings, bid collections and permits to expand and refurbish offices at AVMA headquarters in Schaumburg, Ill. The action took place at AVMA's meeting in Minneapolis.

"It's a major renovation," says AVMA Treasurer Dr. Bret Marsh. "Frankly, there's a need for space. All the figures aren't in, but this is a major commitment on the part of AVMA."

• In other action:

Executive Board members are calling on the Council on Veterinary Services to develop recommendations for a national microchip standard.

The charge comes as the House of Delegates orders AVMA leadership to take an "active role" in defining such a standard. Specifically, the delegate-passed resolution directs moving the nation to International Standards Organization (ISO) microchips. The AVMA Legislative Advisory Committee will offer input for the recommendation, which is scheduled for Executive Board review during its November meeting.

After putting on the World Veterinary Congress in conjunction with its own show in Minneapolis this year, Executive Board members turned down a bid to host the 2008 Panamerican Association of Veterinary Sciences Congress alongside the 145th AVMA Annual Convention in New Orleans.

The group, known as PANVET, involves eight countries including Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, Uruguay, Panama, Chile and the United States.