Veterinary training courses 2026 – Program & speakers at the doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein

Practical, compact, and technically sound: The doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein launches a comprehensive program of veterinary continuing education courses in that precisely combine clinical practice with current surgical techniques. Whether soft tissue and oncological surgery, thoracic and ENT procedures (including BOAS surgery), TPLO of knee joints, or highly specialized dentistry – all courses are deliberately to be hands-on , in small groups and with a clear focus on skill development . The event organizer is the doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein (Carl-Benz-Str. 21, 55743 Idar-Oberstein).

At a glance: new events 2026

• Fundamentals of Abdominal Surgery – February 27–28, 2026 – Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch – €1,499; approx. 14 hours (applied for); Venue: doc4pets Academy Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• TPLO Seminar 1/2026 – March 21, 2026 – Speaker: Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer – €999; approx. 7 ATF hours (applied for); Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• Advanced Abdominal Surgery – May 8–9, 2026 – Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch – €1,699; approx. 14 hours (applied for); Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• Patellar Luxation – May 23, 2026 – Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer – €999; approx. 7 hours of veterinary training (applied for); Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• Oncological Surgery – June 26–27, 2026 – Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch – €1,699; approx. 14 hours of oncological training (applied for); Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• Endodontics Course – September 3–4, 2026 – DVM Dr. Ana Nemec, PhD, Dipl. AVDC/EVDC – €1,699; approx. 10 ATF hours; max. 4 participants ; course language: English; location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• Emergency Management of Jaw Trauma – September 5, 2026 – DVM Dr. Ana Nemec, PhD – €999; approx. 7 hours; Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary continuing education by doc4pets
• Reconstructive Surgery 2026 – September 26, 2026 – FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch – €999; approx. 7 hours of veterinary training; Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• Thoracic Surgery – November 6–7, 2026 – FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch – €1,699; approx. 7 hours of veterinary training (applied for); Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• TPLO Seminar 2/2026 – November 28, 2026 – Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer – €999; approx. 7 ATF hours; Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets
• ENT Surgery Including BOAS Surgery – December 4–5, 2026 – FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch & FTÄ Dr. Anna Trillig – €1,699; approx. 14 hours of veterinary training (applied for); Location: Idar-Oberstein. Veterinary training by doc4pets

Note: Small groups (typically max. 10 participants; endodontics: max. 4 participants) ensure intensive practice on models or specimens. ATF hours are indicated for each course (some are applied for). Veterinary training by doc4pets+1

Why these veterinary training courses are relevant in 2026

Surgical confidence is built on repetition – and this requires space, guidance, and time. This is precisely where the doc4pets Academy formats come into play: structured procedures , clear surgical steps , checklist-based work , and case discussions – all prepared by experienced surgeons. By focusing on soft tissue, oncological, thoracic, ENT, and orthopedic procedures, you will expand your repertoire in a targeted manner and gain routine for your practice. The doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein provides the infrastructure and organization for this; the content is taken from the respective course pages in the event calendar. Veterinary training by doc4pets

The new courses in detail

Fundamentals of Abdominal Surgery (February 27–28, 2026)

Two days consolidating the foundation and systematics of abdominal surgery: from atraumatic techniques to liver lobe and gallbladder surgery to colotomy and rectal resection. You'll practice proper tissue management, plan access routes, and discuss complication prevention—the focus is on reproducible standards and a "why before how" approach. Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch. Venue: doc4pets Academy Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 14 hours (applied for). Veterinary training by doc4pets

TPLO Seminar 1/2026 (March 21, 2026)

Concentrated TPLO training on specimens: preoperative planning using X-ray images, implant selection, drilling, sawing, fixation, and intraoperative/postoperative assessment. Prerequisites: proficiency in osteosynthesis basics and experience with knee joints. Speaker: Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 7 hours of ATF veterinary training by doc4pets.

Advanced Abdominal Surgery (May 8–9, 2026)

In-depth study of hepatobiliary, gastrointestinal, and endocrine organs—including anal sac surgery, perineal hernia repair, and rectal basics. The format combines theory, demonstrations, exercises, and case discussions for surgical safety in everyday life . Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 14 hours of veterinary training. Veterinary training by doc4pets

Patellar luxation (May 23, 2026)

From classification to implant selection: diagnostics, surgical techniques from simple to complex cases, hands-on with the specimen, and structured aftercare. Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 7 hours of veterinary training. Continuing veterinary training by doc4pets

Oncological Surgery (June 26–27, 2026)

Biopsy techniques, tumor resection, mastectomy, amputation, and basic techniques of reconstructive surgery (advancement flaps/rotation flaps) – each embedded in indication assessment, resection planning, and wound management. Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 14 hours of veterinary training. Continuing veterinary training by doc4pets

Endodontics Course (September 3–4, 2026)

Highly specialized dentistry in small groups (max. 4 participants): Traumatology, total pulpectomy, access/preparation/obturation, complications – with consistent practical components. Course language: English. Course leader: DVM Dr. Ana Nemec , PhD, Dipl. AVDC/EVDC. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 10 ATF hours. Veterinary continuing education by doc4pets

Emergency management of jaw trauma (05. 09. 2026)

An intensive day on maxillofacial emergencies in dogs and cats: first aid, symphysis cerclage, (semi-)rigid MMF, Risdon/Stout technique, soft palate reconstruction, and partial pulpectomy with X-ray evaluation – each with practical exercises. Course leader: DVM Dr. Ana Nemec , PhD. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 7 hours of ATF training. Veterinary continuing education by doc4pets

Reconstructive Surgery 2026 (September 26, 2026)

Advancement flaps, rotation flaps, wound management, and defect coverage – compact and practice-oriented. Ideal as a bridge between oncological surgery and safe reconstruction. Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 7 hours of veterinary training. Continuing veterinary training by doc4pets

Thoracic surgery (November 6–7, 2026)

Anatomy & indications, imaging & planning, thoracotomy, minimally invasive procedures, drainage techniques, postoperative care – plus hands-on sessions for a smooth routine. Speaker: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 14 hours (applied for). Veterinary training by doc4pets

TPLO Seminar 2/2026 (November 28, 2026)

Second 2026 date for targeted TPLO training – surgical procedure on the specimen, including implant selection and outcome assessment. Speaker: Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer. Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 7 hours of ATF veterinary training by doc4pets.

ENT surgery including BOAS surgery (December 4th – 5th, 2026)

Basics of ENT in dogs and cats, BOAS diagnostics, surgical techniques (nasal opening, soft palate, tonsillectomy if necessary), exercises on models, and structured aftercare. Speakers: FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch & FTÄ Dr. Anna Trillig . Location: Idar-Oberstein. Approximately 14 hours (applied for). Veterinary continuing education by doc4pets

Speakers – presented in brief

• Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch , a veterinarian specializing in small and companion animals, as well as in surgery; long-time senior physician in oncology/oncological surgery (2012–2025) at the Hofheim Animal Clinic, and since March 2025, a mobile surgeon (soft tissue/oncology/reconstructive surgery).
• DVM Dr. Ana Nemec, PhD, Dipl. AVDC/EVDC – Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Ljubljana; dual diplomate (EVDC/AVDC), residency & research at UC Davis; international speaker with more than 110 conference presentations.
• FTÄ Dr. Anna Trillig (née Döring) – specialist veterinarian for small animal surgery with additional qualification in ENT for small animals ; positions include LMU Munich (senior physician), Oberhaching Veterinary Clinic, and since 2022 senior physician for surgery and ENT at Dr. Trillig's Veterinary Clinic.
• Associate Professor Dr. med. vet. Dr. habil. Daniela Simon Betz – EBVS specialist in oncology (ECVIM-CA oncology) and internal medicine (ECVIM-CA internal medicine); among others, Tufts, Utrecht, Zurich, and TiHo Hannover (Head of Oncology). (Note: Her oncology seminar is scheduled for 2025, but demonstrates the breadth of the speaker team.)
• Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer – course instructor for TPLO and patella luxation , senior physician in orthopedics & FTÄ for small animal surgery at the Hofheim Animal Clinic.

Framework & Organization

Unless otherwise stated, all courses take place at the doc4pets Academy, Carl-Benz-Str. 21, 55743 Idar-Oberstein . Small groups (typically max. 10 ; endodontics: max. 4 ) ensure intensive practice and individual feedback. The majority of courses are held in German ; specialized courses such as endodontics are held in English . ATF hours are listed (some are requested ). Prices are given per course.

Who is the training suitable for?

• Colleagues with initial surgical experience who routines in procedures and complication management (e.g. abdominal basics, patellar luxation).
• Advanced surgeons who the complexity and depth of intervention (e.g., abdominal advanced, oncological surgery, thoracic, BOAS).
• Specialists with a niche focus who highly practical settings (e.g. small endodontic group).
  

What you will learn from the courses

• Standardized surgical procedures : From indication and planning to incision and suture – checklist-based and reproducible. (See course objectives/seminar objectives)
• Technique depth : Advancement flaps, rotation flaps, chest drains, TPLO steps, pulpectomy techniques – hands-on training.
• Complication prevention & follow-up care : Case-oriented discussions and structured post-operative regimens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Summary: Veterinary training courses 2026 – overview and benefits

The 2026 veterinary continuing education courses at the doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein are a strategically structured seminar program specifically designed for clinicians, general practitioners, and those interested in surgery. With its emphasis on hands-on training , small groups, and expert instruction, the program offers a clear advantage over traditional lecture formats.

In this summary you will learn:

• how the course program for veterinary training courses in 2026 is structured,
• which content priorities are set,
• who participates as speakers,
• and what benefits you can personally gain veterinary training courses in 2026

Structure & Diversity of Veterinary Training 2026

Veterinary Continuing Education 2026 program covers a wide range of topics – from basics to specialized surgical procedures to specialized niche courses:

• Basic courses such as “Fundamentals of Abdominal Surgery” provide solid foundational skills.
• Advanced courses such as “ Advanced Abdominal Surgery ” or “Reconstructive Surgery” will introduce you to more sophisticated surgical techniques.
• Special topics include TPLO , patellar luxation , oncological surgery , thoracic surgery , ENT including BOAS surgery , endodontics , emergency management in the jaw area , and rectal surgery .
• Each course within the 2026 Veterinary Training Program is specifically geared towards practical implementation : theoretical components, case discussions, and, above all, hands-on exercises are the focus.
• The number of participants is deliberately kept low (typically up to 10, max. 4 for the endodontics course) to enable individual learning success and intensive feedback.
• The courses take place at the doc4pets Academy in Idar-Oberstein – centrally located, easily accessible, and with suitable infrastructure.

Content focus & learning objectives

The 2026 veterinary continuing education courses focus on those surgical and diagnostic areas that are frequently encountered or increasingly important in small animal medicine:

• Soft tissue & abdominal surgery : organ operations, suturing techniques, complication prevention
• Orthopaedics : TPLO, patellar luxation, joint guidance and stabilization
• Oncological surgery : tumor resection, reconstruction, biopsy techniques
• Thoracic surgery : Chest surgery, drainage, minimally invasive approaches
• ENT / BOAS Surgery : Airway Surgery in Brachycephalic Dogs
• Endodontics : root canal surgery, root canal treatment, dental techniques
• Emergency surgery in the maxillofacial area : treatment of jaw injuries
• Reconstructive procedures : flaps, skin repositioning, defect coverage
• Anorectal surgery : procedures on the rectum, anus or perianal tissues

The goal is that after completing the individual courses of the 2026 veterinary training courses, will not only have theoretical knowledge, but will also be able to plan and perform operations safely and anticipate postoperative problems.

Speakers & Expertise

A key pillar of the 2026 veterinary continuing education program is the selection of speakers. They bring their clinical, research, and practical experience directly to the courses:

• FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch regularly participates in courses such as abdominal surgery, oncological surgery, thorax or reconstructive surgery.
• DVM Dr. Ana Nemec, PhD, Dipl. AVDC/EVDC will lead the endodontics course and emergency management for jaw trauma in 2026.
• FTÄ Dr. Anna Trillig (née Döring) is a co-speaker in the ENT / BOAS-OP seminar.
• Dr. Nicola Hörtdörfer is involved in orthopedic courses such as TPLO and patellar luxation.
• are involved in various courses of the 2026 veterinary training courses

This mixture of specialization, clinical routine and didactic standards contributes significantly to the learning success of the participants.

Your benefits from the veterinary training courses 2026

Those who participate in veterinary training courses in 2026 can benefit specifically from:

1. Increasing surgical safety – through targeted training, error analysis and mentoring in the operating room setting.
2. Expansion of the treatment spectrum – through new surgical techniques in orthopedics, oncology, ENT or thorax.
3. More efficiency and structure in everyday clinical practice – through structured surgical procedures and standardization.
4. Competent in complication management – ​​targeted training on aspects such as bleeding, wound healing or malproportions.
5. Sharpen your profile and differentiate yourself – through specializations that make your practice or clinic more attractive.
6. Network & Colloquia – Exchange with colleagues, discussion of complex cases.
7. Recognized continuing education hours – many courses in the 2026 veterinary continuing education program have been awarded or applied for with ATF hours.
8. Small groups & individual feedback – maximum learning success thanks to intensive support.
9. Direct practical relevance – no abstract lectures, but real applications and implementations.
10. Plannable training throughout the year – you can plan your further training specifically with the 2026 veterinary training calendar.

Conclusion & Call

The 2026 veterinary continuing education courses are more than just a collection of courses—they form a coherent network of continuing education programs that specifically strengthens you, advances your professional skills, and prepares you for surgical challenges. With select speakers and a moderated group structure, you'll benefit directly in your daily clinical practice.

Those who decide now will benefit in the long term: Register early , secure your place in the 2026 veterinary training and shape your professional development confidently and purposefully.

Veterinary training courses 2026 – your year for targeted further education, solid technology and fresh ideas.