The 2026 Mountain West Veterinary Conference, held June 11-13 in beautiful Coeur d’Alene, blended continuing education with business, building new relationships, renewing old ones, and – most importantly – having fun!
The annual conference hosted by the Idaho Veterinary Medical Association attracted 170 vets, techs, vendors, and friends from as far away as the Appalachian Mountain region of North Carolina and historic New Orleans to the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene to hear from top notch speakers and interact with a robust assembly of industry leading vendors and partners.
2026 keynote speaker Dr. Lance Roasa, a veterinarian, attorney, educator and entrepreneur, explored the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the veterinary profession. Based in Nebraska, Roasa founded and manages the Roasa Law Group whose mission is to help veterinary professionals across the U.S. navigate the legal and business complexities of veterinary medicine.
Over 160 attendees registered for the robust offering of educational sessions spanning small, mixed, and large animal practitioners and vet technicians over the two-day gathering in North Idaho.
Conference highlights included the announcement of the distinguished 2026 Veterinarian of the Year (VOY) award and the annual steak fry and auction to raise funds for student scholarships.