Media Journalist Application

What Is VNN?

VNN was born from the need identified by a 25 year veteran of the news business – Dr. Jim Humphries.  Dr. Humphries began in 1985 producing and reporting animal medical news stories at WFAA Channel 8 (ABC) news in Dallas, then became the Pets and Animal Reporter for KXAS TV (NBC) The Texas News Channel.  As a spokesman for the veterinary profession, he has done over 4,500 news broadcasts and radio shows in almost every media outlet in the country.

Dr. Humphries has produced and hosted three national television series, four national talk radio programs and written regular columns for many major magazines and newspapers.

Dr. Jim has served as a regular contributor for CBS The Early Show for 12 years and has appeared on Fox News, CNBC, CNN Morning News, The Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Lifetime Television and many more.

While pioneering animal medical stories in the news, Dr. Humphries has also lead the way for hundreds of other veterinarians to bring the fascinating stories of animal medicine to a news and online audience.

In an interview for VNN's web site, Dr. Humphries said, "I began my media career in the newsroom at both WFAA and KXAS in Dallas, Ft. Worth.  I learned the news business from the very best.  I quickly learned to plan a good story, edit my own packages and found the best way to deliver them in a newscast.  One of the most important lessons was how pet medical stories fit into today's news mix.  I also know how important it is to have good quality news footage for your story."

Humphries continued, "There are veterinarians appearing in the news in many markets, but most do not have a source of good news footage or edited packages to make their segments more professional and more visual.  VNN provides these reporters that crucial element of news story communication.  As an experienced news producer, I know what makes a good news story and how to package the tools to give media contributors what they need to make for great local news."

New Media Ready:

VNN's media resources are also perfect for the evolution of the "new" media.  Whether it is an animal health web site or blog, or short form messaging, VNN's professional media tools are well researched, newsworthy and save the reporter, editor or writer valuable time.  We encourage members of all media formats to become valuable members of the Veterinary News Network. 

If you would like to become an affiliate reporter and use our story resources in your program, we encourage you to follow the link below and fill out the simple application.

If you would simply like to have a veterinary reporter appear on your news or entertainment programs, click on Find A Reporter or simply contact us to see who is available in your market.  We are 400 strong and most likely have a media trained veterinarian in your area who would be a great contribution to your newscast or program. 

Click here to apply now.

Printer Friendly Version