ALACHUA, FL – The Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) and Pawsitive Holdings today announced a new partnership to present a hands-on artificial intelligence (AI) workshop at VHMA's 2026 Annual Meeting and Conference, taking place September 10–12, 2026, at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada.
Designed specifically for veterinary practice leaders, the workshop moves beyond AI hype to help attendees make confident, informed decisions about adopting and using AI in their organizations.
Participants will gain a plain-language understanding of how today's leading AI tools work, how to use them safely and productively, and how to evaluate emerging AI and agentic solutions. The program also emphasizes leadership, equipping attendees with insights into how AI is evolving, what to expect in the coming years, and how to foster an "AI-first" mindset and culture within their organizations.
Through real-world case examples, curated market insights, and a guided planning session, participants will leave with greater clarity, confidence, and a practical, actionable path forward.
The workshop will serve as the inaugural event launching Pawsitive Holdings’ new Pawsitive Intelligence membership-based executive program. Pawsitive Intelligence is designed to help veterinary and pet industry leaders understand and adopt artificial intelligence in practical, responsible, and sustainable ways.
Structured as an ongoing membership program, Pawsitive Intelligence provides year-round education, peer discussion, and proven frameworks focused on successful AI adoption within organizations. Membership is designed for veterinary practice owners and managers, multi-site and regional operators, pet industry CEOs and senior executives, and advisors supporting veterinary organizations.
In addition to curating relevant software tools and vendors, Pawsitive Intelligence emphasizes organizational planning, leadership alignment, operational impact, and the change management required to achieve meaningful AI transformation.
“AI is no longer a future topic for veterinary organizations—it is already influencing how teams operate and how leaders make decisions," said Christine Shupe, CAE, Executive Director of VHMA. "This partnership allows VHMA to offer our members high-quality education and ongoing resources that support organizations from strategy through implementation."
"This program is about building critical understanding and supportive relationships, and VHMA is the ideal partner to achieve those goals," said Gabriel Baldinucci, CEO of Pawsitive Holdings. "Pawsitive Intelligence creates a membership-based community where leaders can learn together, share perspectives, and successfully navigate AI adoption over time."
About the VHMA
The VHMA, a nationally recognized thought leader, provides training, education, and resources to over 5,000 members. Its certification programs support veterinary practice management professionals by developing competence and encouraging standards. VHMA serves as a trusted resource for industry insights and advocacy, helping to shape the future of the veterinary profession. For more information, visit www.vhma.org.
About Pawsitive Holdings
Pawsitive Holdings is an operator-led holding company focused on building and partnering with exceptional pet industry businesses. Pawsitive Holdings develops new ventures internally and makes majority and minority investments in companies that share its leadership, values, and long-term vision. For more information, visit www.pawsitiveholdings.com and www.pawsitiveintelligence.ai.