The WVC Exhibit Hall Is a Lot. Here’s How Vet Candy’s Caitlin Palmer Is Tackling It

The WVC Vegas exhibit hall is often described as the heart of the conference. With thousands of booths, product launches, demos, and conversations happening at once, it can be both energizing and overwhelming. For Caitlin Palmer, TikTok creator, veterinary receptionist turned comedian, and one of four Vet Candy WVC Vegas Ambassadors, this year marks her first time navigating the exhibit hall, and she is approaching it with a plan.

“I don’t want to just walk out with sore feet and a bag of random stuff,” Palmer says. “I want to actually have experiences.”

Rather than trying to cover everything in one pass, Palmer plans to be intentional about how she moves through the space. She sees the exhibit hall as a chance to connect with brands, discover new tools, and have a little fun along the way.

Starting With What Matters Most

Palmer says the biggest mistake first-time attendees make is trying to see every booth.

“I already know that’s not realistic,” she says. “So I’m picking a few things I really care about and starting there.”

As a veterinary receptionist, she is especially interested in companies focused on client communication, workflow efficiency, and products that make day-to-day clinic life easier. She is also looking for booths that encourage conversation rather than just quick sales pitches.

“If someone can explain what they do without reading off a script, I’m more likely to remember them,” Palmer says.

Must-See Booths and Experiences

While Palmer is leaving room for spontaneity, there are a few experiences she does not want to miss. One of them is the Pawsome glass dog giveaway courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim, which has become a popular stop for attendees looking for something memorable to take home. Local artist Greg LeFrancis brings his talent back to the WVC Vegas 2026, and has created 98 collectible glass-blown dachshunds, commemorating our 98th WVC Vegas Annual Conference. These limited edition art pieces will be found in various Boehringer Ingelheim-hosted locations throughout WVC Vegas 2026, along with a commemorative box and a certificate of authenticity.

Join the Paw-some Pursuit and 'adopt' one of these adorable glass pups!

“I love anything that feels thoughtful instead of disposable,” she says. “A one of a kind glass dog is something you actually keep.”

She also plans to spend time at booths that offer live demos, interactive displays, or hands-on experiences.

“If I can try something or see it in action, it sticks with me way more than a flyer,” Palmer says.

Making the Exhibit Hall Enjoyable

For Palmer, pacing is key. She plans to visit the exhibit hall during off-peak hours when possible and build in breaks to avoid burnout.

“I’m treating it like a marathon, not a sprint,” she says.

She also plans to talk to other attendees and ask what they have discovered.

“People will always tell you about the one booth that surprised them,” Palmer says. “That’s usually where the best stuff is.”

Walking Away With More Than Swag

At the end of the day, Palmer hopes the exhibit hall feels less overwhelming and more meaningful.

“If I leave with a few real connections, a couple of new ideas, and maybe that glass dog, I’ll call it a success,” she says.

For first-time WVC Vegas attendees, her advice is simple.

“Go in curious, take your time, and don’t be afraid to skip things,” Palmer says. “The best experiences are the ones you actually stop for.”