Geert Paes, DVM, Dip ECVIM-ca 
Joachim Proot, DVM, Dip ECVS 
This module begins with a strong focus on the responsible and evidence-based use of antibiotics.
Antibiotics play a critical role in the treatment of a wide range of infectious diseases. However, their effectiveness is increasingly compromised by the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Since inappropriate and excessive use of antibiotics is one of the primary drivers of resistance, it is the responsibility of both veterinarians and physicians to ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously and correctly.
In this module, you will learn:
The second part of this module covers several important and frequently encountered infectious diseases, including vector-borne infections, FIV, FeLV, and FIP.
You will have 6 weeks to complete the entire module. The content must be followed in the designated sequence and consists of a varied mix of educational formats, including concise reading materials and documents (e.g., clinical protocols and step-by-step plans), on-demand webinars, and podcasts.
At the end of the module, you will complete a final quiz. This assessment also serves as a learning opportunity, with each answer accompanied by a brief explanation to reinforce your understanding.
Instructors:
Duration:
Geert Paes, DVM, Dip ECVIM-ca After graduating as a veterinarian in 2006 from the University of Ghent, Geert completed an internship and residency in small animal internal medicine. She remained at the university until 2012, after which she moved to Western Canada. There, she spent several years working in first-line practice, before transitioning back into emergency and referral medicine. This experience gave her a deep understanding of the realities of clinical practice and a strong appreciation for the challenges faced by general practitioners on a daily basis.
Geert has been a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ECVIM-CA) since 2017 and is (co-)author of several scientific publications. She currently works as a specialist at Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Surrey, Canada, and as a teleconsultant.
However, what truly sets Geert apart is her passion for teaching. She is known for her ability to explain complex topics in a clear, accessible, and practical way, making internal medicine understandable for every veterinarian—regardless of their level of experience. Her teaching style is characterized by clear explanations, additional context, and a strong focus on clinical reasoning.
Having worked in first-line practice herself, Geert strongly believes that the “ideal scenario” is not always achievable. Her goal is not only to teach what the gold standard (Plan A) looks like, but also to equip veterinarians with the tools and confidence to make well-reasoned decisions when they need to rely on Plan B or Plan C.
Her courses are highly valued for their practical approach and direct applicability in daily practice, and her enthusiasm for internal medicine is contagious—she consistently succeeds in inspiring others to develop the same passion.
Driven by this vision, Geert founded OnlineVetTraining (OVT) in 2019, with the aim of providing accessible, high-quality, and clinically relevant education for veterinarians and veterinary professionals worldwide.
Joachim Proot, DVM, Dip ECVS Joachim Proot (ECVS diplomate) graduated as a veterinarian from the University of Ghent in 2001. After graduating, he did an internship in Canada and then worked in England for five years. After obtaining his Certificate in Small Animal Surgery; in 2006 he started working in a secondary care clinic in the United Kingdom and followed his ECVS specialization training there.
Joachim currently works as a soft tissue surgeon at Dierenziekenhuis Barendrecht (Netherlands) and also works as a passionate teacher for the Evidensia Academy (Netherlands). Joachim's interest lies in soft tissue surgery, but in his specialization trajectory he also gained extensive experience in orthopedics and neurosurgery.
