The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service monitors wild birds in Alaska's Izembek National Wildlife Refuge and at other locations across the country for highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza—which has not reached North America. The causative virus continues to be a worldwide concern, prompting calls for veterinary expertise and heightening awareness of zoonotic disease.
List narrows for possible homes for research facility
Plum Island to be refurbished as site search continues
Plum Island Animal Disease Center will receive $30 million for much-needed expansion and upgrades even as the government moves ahead with plans to build a “next-generation” biological and agricultural defense facility.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
The Department of Homeland Security recently identified several potential sites for the government's National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility.
In August, the DHS announced that 18 locations in 11 states had advanced to the next phase in the selection process for the home for the “next-generation” biological and agricultural defense facility.
Even though the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility could eventually replace the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, the 55-year-old center off the coast of Long Island, N.Y., will receive $30 million for much-needed expansion and upgrades this year.
Ownership of Plum Island was transferred from the Agriculture Department to the Homeland Security Department in June 2003 as part of the Homeland Security Act.
A DHS spokesman was quoted by The Scientist as saying that the refurbishments at Plum Island are separate from the plan to build the NBAF and that no decision had been made whether to keep Plum Island open along with the new facility.
Plum Island is important in the rapid diagnosis of foreign animal diseases and is the only facility in the United States where research on live foot-and-mouth disease virus is permitted. The center has some 180 employees, half of whom are research scientists with the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Agricultural Research services.
The proposed enhancements at Plum Island include a new animal-holding wing consisting of 8,000 square feet, an expanded necropsy area, and a biosecurity level 3 laboratory for DHS research programs.
Meanwhile, the Homeland Security Department is working with the departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services on the new facility, a state-of-the-art biosafety containment area where government scientists would come together to address biological and agricultural national security risks. The NBAF would be approximately 500,000 square feet and occupy at least 30 acres.
Plans call for equipping the NBAF with numerous laboratories for research in biological threats involving foreign animal, zoonotic, and human diseases. A key part of this will be housing laboratories that will provide high-security spaces for agricultural and animal studies research as well as for training personnel.
Additionally, the department wants the NBAF to develop vaccine countermeasures for foreign animal diseases and to provide advanced test and evaluation capability for threat detection, vulnerability, and countermeasure assessment for animal and zoonotic diseases.
The initiative is in keeping with Homeland Security Presidential Directive-9, which directs the Agriculture and Homeland Security secretaries to develop a plan to provide “safe, secure, and state-of-the-art agriculture biocontainment laboratories that research and develop diagnostic capabilities for foreign animal and zoonotic diseases.”
After a review of 29 potential sites around the country for the NBAF, a multi-agency, multi-disciplinary team narrowed the list to the following 18:
• Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California
• Georgia Consortium for Health and Agro-Security (two sites)
• Heartland BioAgro Consortium in Kansas (two sites)
• Kentucky and Tennessee NBAF Consortium in Kentucky
• Mid-Atlantic Bio-Ag Defense Consortium in Maryland
• Gulf States Bio and Agro-Defense Consortium in Mississippi (three sites)
• University of Missouri at Columbia
• North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine
• Oklahoma State University
• Texas A&M University
• Brooks Development Authority and Brooks City-Base Foundation in Texas
• Texas Research and Technology Foundation
• Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research in Texas
• University of Wisconsin-Madison site at the Kegonsa Research Facility.
Site candidates will have the opportunity to provide more detailed information to support their submissions. The DHS expects to narrow the potential sites even further by the end of 2006, with the final facility site named in early 2008.
—R. SCOTT NOLEN
Cases of xylitol poisoning in dogs rise
The Animal Poison Control Center of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has managed a substantially increased number of cases involving xylitol poisoning in dogs. Found in sugar-free chewing gum, candy, and baked goods, xylitol is a sweetener that can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening problems for pets.
The center managed more than 170 cases of xylitol poisoning in 2005, up from approximately 70 in 2004, said Dana Farbman, a certified veterinary technician and spokesperson for the center. As of August, the center had managed nearly 114 cases in 2006.
An increase in availability of xylitol-containing products may be one reason for the rise in cases, Farbman said.
While it was previously thought that only large concentrations of xylitol could cause problems in dogs, lesser amounts of the sweetener may also be harmful, the center reported.
“Our concern used to be mainly with products that contain xylitol as one of the first ingredients,” said Dr. Eric Dunayer, who specializes in toxicology at the center. “However, we have begun to see problems developing from ingestions of products with lesser amounts of this sweetener.” Dr. Dunayer said that with smaller concentrations of xylitol, the onset of clinical signs could be delayed as much as 12 hours after ingestion.
According to Dr. Dunayer, dogs ingesting substantial amounts of items sweetened with xylitol could develop a sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. “These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 30 minutes after ingestion of the product. Therefore, it is crucial that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately,” Dr. Dunayer said. He also said that there appears to be a strong link between xylitol ingestions and the development of liver failure in dogs.
To learn more about xylitol ingestion in dogs, turn to page 1113 for “Acute hepatic failure and coagulopathy associated with xylitol ingestion in eight dogs.”
Global warning system for zoonotic diseases launched
A global early warning system for zoonotic diseases was launched by the Food and Agriculture Organization, World Health Organization, and World Organization for Animal Health (OIE).
The Global Early Warning and Response System is the first joint early warning system with the goal of predicting and responding worldwide to animal diseases, including zoonoses. The system will combine and coordinate the tracking, verification, and alerting mechanisms of the FAO, WHO, and OIE.
“From an animal health point of view, controlling contagious animal diseases in their early stages is easier and less expensive for the international community,” said Dr. Bernard Vallat, director general of the OIE. “In cases of zoonoses, this system will enable control measures that can also benefit public health.”
Susanne Weber-Mosdorf, WHO assistant director general, said, “History shows us that the earlier we can detect a zoonosis, the earlier we can take action to reduce the threats to people. Today, the spread of avian flu reinforces the fact that the animal and human health sectors must work closely together, and that early detection and coordination is critical. This new network is an important step forward.”
The information gathered through the tracking and verification channels of the FAO, WHO, and OIE will be shared using the warning system's Web-based electronic platform. The three organizations will jointly analyze the information to decide whether to issue an early warning message. The warning messages will describe the possible implications of disease spread among animals at the national, regional, and international levels and the potential public health impact. If there is a clear indication that a joint on-site assessment or intervention is required, the three organizations will collaborate and activate their response mechanisms.
More information on the Global Early Warning and Response System can be found at the three organizations' Web sites, www.fao.org, www.who.int, and www.oie.int.
USDA, DOI expand wild bird monitoring for avian influenza
The Department of Agriculture and Department of the Interior will expand wild bird monitoring for highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza beyond Alaska through cooperative agreements with the contiguous states, along with Hawaii and other Pacific Islands.
“Because we cannot control wild birds, our best protection is an early warning system, and this move to test thousands more wild birds throughout the country will help us to quickly identify, respond, and control the virus, if it arrives in the United States,” said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns in a prepared statement.
Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne said, “These coordinated federal and state testing programs will be important this fall as birds now nesting in Alaska and Canada begin their migration south through the continental United States.”
Beginning in mid-2006, the USDA, DOI, state of Alaska, and University of Alaska tested nearly 10,000 wild birds. The USDA reported that highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza was not detected.
As part of “An early detection system for H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild migratory birds—U.S. Interagency Strategic Plan,” the USDA completed cooperative agreements with 48 states and, as of August, was finalizing agreements with two states. The agreements will expand the monitoring of wild birds by providing nearly $4 million for state agencies to obtain samples from specific species of wild migratory birds at certain sites under plans coordinated through four national flyway councils.
The DOI's U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has finalized cooperative agreements with California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and will eventually finalize an agreement with Hawaii. These states and other cooperators received $1.9 million from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to implement monitoring strategies in each state's surveillance plan.
The national wild bird monitoring plan is part of President Bush's National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza. President Bush allocated $29 million in the fiscal year 2006 avian influenza supplemental funding package for implementation of the wild bird monitoring plan. The funds were allocated to the USDA and DOI.
For up-to-date information about wild bird monitoring for early detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the United States, visit the National HPAI Early Detection Data System online at http://wildlifedisease.nbii.gov/ai. The Web site shows the states where samples have been collected and includes the number of samples collected from each state.
To learn more about the Department of Agriculture's and Department of the Interior's avian influenza efforts overall, log onto www.usda.gov/birdflu and www.doi.gov/issues/avianflu.
Education council schedules site visits
The AVMA Council on Education has scheduled site visits to two colleges or schools of veterinary medicine for the remainder of 2006.
Site visits are planned for The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Oct. 22-26; and Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine, Nov. 5–9.
The council welcomes written comments on these plans or the programs to be evaluated. Comments should be addressed to Dr. Donald G. Simmons, Director, Education and Research Division, AVMA, 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360. Comments must be signed by the person submitting them to be considered.
News: your foundation
Tropical fundraiser is fruitful
An evening cruise in Hawaii during the AVMA Annual Convention raised an estimated $21,000 to benefit the American Veterinary Medical Foundation.
The Star of Hawaii sailed down the Waikiki coast July 16 to Diamond Head for a tropical evening voyage before returning to port.
Funds will benefit animal disaster preparedness and relief, which the AVMF has stressed for the past 10 years. In 2003, this became the AVMF's primary focus, with the goal of delivering uniform and consistent animal care in the face of disaster on the national, state, and local levels.
Dr. R. Tracy Rhodes presents a maquette of the sculpture “Team Effort” to Dr. Leon H. Russell (center) and his wife, Martha.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
World Veterinary Association president, Dr. Leon H. Russell, won a fundraising raffle for a maquette (a small model of a work of art or piece of architecture) of “Team Effort,” a sculpture located outside the AVMA headquarters building in Schaumburg, Ill. The life-size bronze depicts the human animal bond and embodies the hands-on approach to veterinary preventive medicine.
AVMF elects officers
In Honolulu, the American Veterinary Association Board of Directors unanimously elected the following officers for 2006–2007: Drs. R. Tracy Rhodes, Buffalo, Wyo., chair; Robert E. “Bud” Hertzog, Lee's Summit, Mo.,vice chair; Samuel E. Strahm, Pawhuska, Okla., treasurer; and Anna van Heeckeren, Gates Mills, Ohio, secretary. Dr. Robert P. Gordon, Oakland, N.J., is immediate past chair.
Profession provides input for new knowledge test
A survey of veterinarians about the knowledge necessary to enter the profession will be the basis of a new examination for step 3 of the certification program of the AVMA Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates.
The examination assesses the basic and clinical sciences knowledge of graduates from veterinary colleges without AVMA accreditation. Between May 15 and June 15, more than 3,500 veterinarians from the United States and Canada completed an online survey to analyze just what scientific knowledge is necessary for on-the-job tasks.
“The job analysis confirmed a lot of what we suspected in terms of the areas of knowledge for an entry-level veterinarian,” said Dr. Don Prater, ECFVG chair and leader of the Aquaculture Drugs Team at the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Prater said the respondents showed agreement across demographic groups. The survey asked respondents to rate the importance of specific knowledge subsets within the domains of anatomy; pharmacology, physiology, and toxicology; pathology; medicine; principles of surgery and anesthesia; diagnostics; and preventive medicine.
From Aug. 11-12, a 10-member task force met with testing consultants from Thomson Prometric at AVMA headquarters to review the survey results and make recommendations regarding the specifications for the new examination. The task force will forward its recommendations to the seven-member ECFVG for consideration when the commission next meets, Oct. 19-20.
Dr. Jim Reynolds, a member of the task force, praised the process of developing the test by asking the profession what is important before writing the questions.
“It is, I think, amazingly thorough and defendable,” said Dr. Reynolds, who is in dairy production medicine at the University of California's Veterinary Medicine Teaching & Research Center in Tulare.
In recent years, the ECFVG has been using the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination for the step 3 examination of knowledge. The National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, which owns and administers the NAVLE, has informed the commission that it will no longer allow ECFVG candidates to take the licensing examination as part of the certification program after April 2007. Thereafter, the board will reserve the NAVLE for state licensing examinations.
Development of the new step 3 examination remains on target for release in midsummer 2007. Certification candidates will need to pass the new examination before progressing to the fourth and final step of the program—a hands-on assessment of clinical skills.
The ECFVG now seeks additional expertise from a broad range of veterinarians and veterinary educators to serve as question writers and reviewers. The commission is recruiting volunteers for a three-day workshop by Thomson Prometric, tentatively on the schedule for mid-October.
Veterinarians who would like to serve as question writers or reviewers, or who wish to nominate a colleague to serve, should submit their name or colleague's name, specific practice or teaching areas, and contact information—including a daytime telephone number and e-mail address—to ECFVG, Attn: Annie Liu, Testing Coordinator, 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360. Veterinarians may also submit nominations by e-mail to aliu@avma.org.
—KATIE BURNS
Affiliated groups gather in Honolulu
Thirty-six allied or other veterinary-related organizations and several alumni groups from universities and colleges convened this year at the 143rd AVMA Annual Convention in Honolulu. The AVMA encourages and supports such meetings, as they contribute to the diversity of activities available during the convention. Over a period of five days, the veterinary groups were involved in many activities, including lectures, certification examinations, business meetings, workshops, and social gatherings. Many of the organizations co-sponsored the AVMA's educational sessions.
The activities and honors awarded by some of the organizations are reported on the following pages.
Avian pathologists
Event: American Association of Avian Pathologists meeting, July 17, Honolulu
Awards: Special Service Award: Dr. Y.M. Saif, Wooster,
AAVP board of directors: Front row—Sue Clanton (assistant business manager), Dr. Pat Wakenell, Dr. Ching Ching Wu, and Dr. Mick Fulton. Middle row—Drs. Louise Dufour-Zavala, Charles L. Hofacre, Richard Chin, and Patty Dunn. Back row—Drs. Robert Owen, Stew Ritchie, and Rick Sharpton Dr. Nathaniel L. Tablante Dr. John A. Smith Erica Spackman, PhD Darrell R. Kapczynski, PhD
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Dr. Y.M. Saif
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Dr. Nathaniel L. Tablante
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Dr. John A. Smith
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Erica Spackman, PhD
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Darrell R. Kapczynski, PhD
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Ohio, was recognized for outstanding contributions to the field of avian medicine. A professor at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Saif heads its food animal health research program. He serves as the AAAP's delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates. Calnek Applied Poultry Research Achievement Award: Dr. Nathaniel L. Tablante, College Park, Md., for outstanding research contributions resulting directly or indirectly in the control of one or more poultry diseases. Dr. Tablante is associate professor at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and University of Maryland. Lasher-Bottorff Award: Dr. John A. Smith, Baldwin, Ga., won this award, which recognizes an avian diagnostician/technical service veterinarian who has contributed significantly to the poultry health program in North America in the past 10 years. Dr. Smith serves as director of health and hatchery services at Fieldale Farms in Baldwin. Bayer-Snoeyenbos Award: Erica Spackman, PhD, and Darrell R. Kapczynski, PhD, both of Athens, Ga., were recognized as new-and-upcoming investigators. Drs. Spackman and Kapczynski are research microbiologists at the Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory in Athens.
P.P. Levine Award: Hyun S. Lillehoj, PhD, Beltsville, Md., for her paper “Resistance to intestinal coccidiosis following DNA immunization with the cloned 3-1E eimeria gene plus IL-2, IL-15, and IFN-γ” Dr. Lillehoj works for the Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service. Reed Rumsey Student Award: Dr. Kellye S. Joiner, Auburn, Ala. Dr. Joiner is a graduate student at Auburn University. Richard B. Rimler Memorial Paper Scholarship: Michele N. Maughan, Newark, Del. Maughan will be pursuing a PhD degree in microbial genomics at the University of Delaware. L. Dwight Schwartz Travel Scholarship: Dr. Mark A. Burleson, Starkville, Miss. Dr. Burleson is a 2006 graduate of Mississippi State University.
Business: The AAAP will again support the AVMA Fellowship Program this year, in the amount of $3,000.
Officials: Drs. Robert Owen, Mannheim, Pa., president; Pat Wakenell, Davis, Calif., president-elect; Charles L. Hofacre, Watkinsville, Ga., secretary-treasurer; Patty Dunn, University Park, Pa., Northeast director; Louise Dufour-Zavala, Flowery Branch, Ga., Southern director; Ching Ching Wu, West Lafayette, Ind., Central director; Stewart Ritchie, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada, Western director; Richard Chin, Davis, Calif., immediate past president; Y.M. Saif, Wooster, Ohio, and Gregg Cutler, Moorpark, Calif., AVMA delegate and alternate delegate; and Mick Fulton, Lansing, Mich., and Rick Sharpton, Winterville, N.C.,directors-at-large
Contact: Dr. Charles L. Hofacre, Secretary-Treasurer, American Association of Avian Pathologists, University of Georgia, 953 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30602; phone, (706) 542-5645; fax, (706) 542-0249; aaap@uga.edu; Web site, www.aaap.info
Human-animal bond veterinarians
Event: American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians, July 18, Honolulu
Officials: Drs. Richard Timmins, Davis, Calif., president; Martha Littlefield, Baton Rouge, La., president-elect; Marcy Hammerle, O'Fallon, Mo., secretary; Thomas Krall, St. Petersburg, Fla., treasurer; and Alice Villalobos, Hermosa Beach, Calif., immediate past president
AAHABV: Drs. Francois Martin (director-at-large), Alice Villalobos, Richard Timmins, and John Wright
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Contact: Dr. John S. Wright, Interim Executive Director, American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians, Veterinary Clinical Sciences Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, C339 Veterinary Medical Center, 1352 Boyd Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108; phone, (612) 626-1280; fax, (612) 624-0751; wrigh008@umn.edu; Web site, http://aahabv.org/
Retired veterinarians
Event: American Association of Retired Veterinarians meeting, July 16, Honolulu
Drs. Bert Mitchell and Janet Whaley
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: The guest speaker was Dr. Janet Whaley of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service. Dr. Whaley spoke about the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, addressing the history, current status of the federal law, and the role of veterinarians in maintaining the health of marine mammals and in the program.
Business: The AARV approved a motion to donate money to the AVMA Fellowship Program, helping to financially support AVMA fellows.
Officials: Drs. Arthur Freeman, Indianapolis, president; Bert Mitchell, Sarasota, Fla., secretary; Roger W. Batchelder, Cortland, N.Y., treasurer; Russell H. Anthony, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Central representative; and Roy H. Peterson, Tillamook, Ore., Western representative Contact: Dr. Bert Mitchell, Secretary, American Association of Retired Veterinarians, 5186 Cote du Rhone Way, Sarasota, FL 34238; phone, (941) 921-6426; fax, (941) 921-7187; bert.mitchell@earthlink.net
Veterinary parasitologists
Event: American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists meeting, July 15-18, Honolulu
Newly installed AAVP officials for 2006-2007—Drs. Alan A. Marchiondo, Daniel E. Snyder, David S. Lindsay, Susan E. Little, and Ann R. Donoghue
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: The meeting had in attendance approximately 125 scientists, students, and veterinarians from academia, government, and industry with a special interest in veterinary parasitology, from the United States, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Korea.
Awards: AAVP Distinguished Veterinary Parasitologist Award, sponsored by Merial Ltd: Dr. John W. McCall, Athens, Ga., for outstanding contributions to the treatment and control of canine and feline heartworm disease. Vice president of the American Heartworm Society, Dr. McCall is professor emeritus at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Actively involved with filariasis research for 35 years, he also serves as president of TRS Labs Inc., in Athens. AAVP Distinguished Service Award: Dr. Raffaele “Raf” Roncalli, Milltown, N.J., for his support and service to the association. Retired from Merck & Co. Inc., Dr. Roncalli was twice elected president of the American Veterinary Medical History Society. He serves as historian for the AAVP. AAVP Outstanding Graduate Student Award, sponsored by Intervet Inc.: Sheila S. Mitchell, Blacksburg, Va. Mitchell is a graduate student at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and the University of Maryland. Best Student Presentation Award, sponsored by Bayer HealthCare: Jeanne M. Howell, Washington State University, and Martin K. Nielsen, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
Officials: Drs. Daniel E. Snyder, Greenfield, Ind., president; David S. Lindsay, Blacksburg, Va., presidentelect; Susan E. Little, Stillwater, Okla., vice president and program chair; Alan A. Marchiondo, St. Joseph, Mo., secretary-treasurer; and Ann R. Donoghue, Fort Collins, Colo., immediate past president Contact: Dr. Alan A. Marchiondo, Secretary-Treasurer, American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists, IVX Animal Health., 3915 S. 48th St. Terrace, St. Joseph, MO 64503; phone, (816) 364-3777, Ext. 1375; fax, (816) 364-6021; alan_ marchiondo@ivax.com
Poultry veterinarians
Event: American College of Poultry Veterinarians meeting, July 18, Honolulu
Drs. Atoussa Mazaheri, Ivan Alvarado, Michael Martin, Rafael Monleon, Chris Wojnarowicz, Richard Phillips, Andrea Sinclair, Franz Sommer, Davide Giovanardi
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
New Diplomates: Eight new diplomates were welcomed into the ACPV. They are Drs. Atoussa Mazaheri, Turlock, Calif.; Ivan Alvarado, Athens, Ga.; Michael Martin, Cary, N.C.; Rafael Monleon, Raleigh, N.C.; Chris Wojnarowicz, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; Andrea Sinclair, Athens, Ga.; Franz Sommer, Turlock, Calif.; and Davide Giovanardi, Reggio Emilia, Italy. Honorary diplomate status was granted to Dr. Richard Julian of Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
Officials: Drs. Donald W. Oakwood, Ga., president; Sherrill Davison, Kennett Square, Pa., secretary-treasurer; and Richard Phillips, Pineville, La., immediate past president Contact: Dr. Sherrill Davison, Secretary-Treasurer, American College of Poultry Veterinarians, University of Pennsylvania, 382 W. Street Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348; phone, (610) 444-4282; fax, (610) 925-8106; acpv@vet.upenn.edu, Web site, www.acpv.info
Veterinary preventive medicine
Event: American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine meeting, July 14-16, Honolulu
Drs. J. Kevin Grayson, Margaret N. Carter, John R. Herbold, David W. Dreesen (immediate past executive vice president), Patricia B. Scharko, Gary L. Bowman, Candace A. Jacobs, and Gary Gackstatter (immediate past councilor)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Dr. Salvatore M. Cirone
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: Dr. John Glisson, poultry disease scientist at the University of Georgia, reported on his recent visit to Southeast Asian poultry operations, including the various challenges of dealing with highly pathogenic avian influenza in that environment.
Awards: Distinguished Diplomate Award: Dr. Salvatore M. Cirone, Riva, Md., for outstanding contributions to the ACVPM and the profession.
Dr. Cirone is program director for health science policy in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs. He also serves as the District of Columbia's delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates and was recently elected to the AVMA House Advisory Committee. Helwig-Jennings Award: Dr. J. Kevin Grayson, Davis, Calif., for contributions to the college and leadership in veterinary preventive medicine. A lieutenant colonel in the Air Force and an ACVPM councilor, Dr. Grayson serves as deputy director of clinical investigations at Travis Air Force Base in California. Frank A. Todd President's Award: Drs. Margaret N. Carter, Alexandria, Va., and Candace A. Jacobs, San Antonio, for meritorious service to the college through committee work, advocacy, and leadership. A colonel in the Army and president-elect of the ACVPM, Dr. Carter is deputy director, Department of Defense Veterinary Services Activity. A retired colonel from the Air Force and secretarytreasurer of the ACVPM, Dr. Jacobs is vice president of quality assurance and environmental affairs at H-E-B Grocery Company in San Antonio.
Business: The ACVPM approved donating $500 to the AVMA Fellowship Program again this year. Dr. Jeanie Lin, 2005-2006 AVMA Congressional fellow, reported on activities over the past year. The ACVPM executive board approved an initiative for a psychometric job analysis of the membership's professional work activities and audit of the certifying examination procedures to ensure validity of future testing. The examination committee reported the successful use of computer laboratories during testing at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
New Diplomates: Twenty-three new diplomates were welcomed into the college following successful completion of the certifying examination. The new diplomates are Drs. Danelle Bickett-Weddle, Ames, Iowa; Johnny E. Braddy, Hyattsville, Md.; Robert D. Clarkson, Columbia, Mo.; Melinda Eaton, San Antonio; Rebecca I. Evans, Corvallis, Ore.; Renée H. Funk, Atlanta; Howard D. Gobble, Washington, D.C.; Scott E. Hanna, San Antonio; Stephanie I. Harris, Poulsbo, Wash.; Locke A. Karriker, Ames, Iowa; Margaret L. Khaitsa, West Fargo, N.D.; Robert P. Lavan, Collegeville, Pa.; H. Neal Lockood, Helotes, Texas; Ted Y. Mashima, Rockville, Md.; Richard W. Meiring, Marysville, Ohio; Susan M. Miller, Alexandria, Va.; Alejandro Ramirez, Ames, Iowa; Peggy L. Schmidt, Temecula, Calif.; Julie R. Sinclair, Willow Grove, Pa.; Jason W. Stull, Barrington, N.H.; Joseph T. Weaver, Fort Collins, Colo.; Matthew G. Welborn, Knoxville, Tenn.; and Carl J. Williams, Ralesville, N.C. Officials: Drs. John R. Herbold, San Antonio, president; Margaret N. Carter, Alexandria, Va., president-elect; Candace A. Jacobs, San Antonio, secretary-treasurer; Russell W. Currier, Des Moines, Iowa, executive vice president; Patricia B. Scharko, Lexington, Ky., immediate past president; David R. Smith, Davey, Neb., president of the Specialty of Epidemiology; and councilors—Drs. Gary L. Bowman, Milford Center, Ohio; J. Kevin Grayson, Davis, Calif.; and Liz A. Wagstrom, Clive, Iowa Contact: Dr. Russell W. Currier, Executive Vice President, American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, P.O. Box 22219, Clive, IA 50325; phone, (515) 331-4439; fax, (515) 331-4947; evp@acvpm.org; Web site, www.acvpm.org
Laboratory animal practitioners
Event: American Society of Laboratory Animal Practitioners, July 18, Honolulu
Dr. M. Michael Swindle
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Dr. Stephen L. Denny
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Awards: ASLAP Excellence in Research Award: Dr. M. Michael Swindle, Charleston, S.C. Professor and chairman of the Department of Comparative Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, Dr. Swindle was recognized for his development of swine as translational research models. Plaque of appreciation: Immediate past president, Dr. Stephen L. Denny, Frederick, Md., for his dedicated support and leadership of the organization over the past year.
Dr. Peggy Danneman
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Business: It was announced that the ASLAP Foundation has been recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization. The foundation may now participate in the matching gifts program offered through many employers.
Officials: Drs. Peggy Danneman, Bar Harbor, Maine, president; Karl J. Field, Princeton, N.J., president-elect; Fred M. Rock, Princeton Junction, N.J., secretary-treasurer; and Stephen L. Denny, Silver Spring, Md., immediate past president
Contact: Fred M. Rock, Secretary-Treasurer, American Society of Laboratory Animal Practitioners, One Squibb Drive, New Brunswick, NJ 08903-0191; phone, (732) 227-7261; fax, (732) 227-3982; rockf@bms.com; Web site, www.aslap.org
Veterinary medical association executives
Event: American Society of Veterinary Medical Association Executives meeting, July 15, Honolulu
Ralph Johnson (ASVMAE director), Charles Franz, Michelle Wagner, Emily Kane, Candace Joy, Charlene Wandzilak, and Richard Antweiler
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Awards: Jim LaGrone Executive of the Year: Ralph Johnson, Denver, for exemplifying the best in association management and continually bringing credit to the profession and the association community. Johnson is the executive director of the Colorado VMA, Colorado Veterinary Medical Foundation, and Denver Area VMS. Under Johnson's directorship, the CVMA and DAVMS have each seen a rise in membership and an increase in retention rates, and more than 29 programs have been undertaken to promote excellence in veterinary medicine through education, advocacy, and outreach. President of the Colorado Society of Association Executives, Johnson also serves on the board of directors of the ASVMAE, the Animal Assistance Foundation, and the Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund. Distinguished Volunteer Service Award: Elbert “Hutch” Hutchins, Austin, Texas, in recognition of exceptional service to the ASVMAE. Executive director of the Texas VMA, Hutchins is a past president of the ASVMAE, has served on the VMA.CE Online Management Committee, and contributed greatly to the ASVMAE listserv. Innovative Member Service Project Award: Nancy Klaffky of the Connecticut VMA, for the “Cause for Paws” program. The program, developed by the CVMA in partnership with Best Friends Pet Care, delivers pet oxygen masks to fire departments in Connecticut. Since its inception, 167 masks have been distributed.
Elbert “Hutch” Hutchins
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Officials: Emily Kane, Phoenix, president; Michelle Wagner, Reno, Nev., president-elect; Charlene Wandzilak, Hershey, Pa., secretary; Dr. Charles Franz, Montgomery, Ala., treasurer; and Richard Antweiler, Jefferson City, Mo., immediate past president
Contact: Emily Kane, President, American Society of Veterinary Medical Association Executives, 100 W. Coolidge St., Phoenix, AZ 85015; phone, (602) 242-7936; fax, (602) 249-3828; ekane@azvma.org, Web site, www.vmaexecs.org
Health information managers
Event: American Veterinary Health Information Management Association meeting, July 17-19, Honolulu
Valerie E. Ball
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: The association presented “Web tools work well” at the 2006 Talbot Symposium on Computers and Veterinary Informatics, conducted by the Association for Veterinary Informatics.
Awards: Outstanding Service Award: Margaret Neterer, East Lansing, Mich., was recognized for her 25 years of service to the association. Past secretary of the AVHIMA, Neterer works at the University of Michigan Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
Officials: Valerie E. Ball, Raleigh, N.C., president; Tanis Comrie, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, presidentelect; Susan McBride, Mississippi State, Miss., secretary; and Bobbi Schmidt, Columbus, Ohio, immediate past president
Contact: Valerie E. Ball, President, American Veterinary Health Information Management Association, North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, 4700 Hillsborough St., Raleigh, NC 27606; phone, (919) 513-6520; fax, (919) 513-6225;Valerie_ball@ncsu.edu, Web site, www.avhima.org
Veterinary history society
Event: American Veterinary Medical History Society meeting, July 17, Honolulu
Dr. Munetsugu Ogata and Col. Gary Vroegindewey
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: AVMHS president, Col. Gary Vroegindewey, spoke about World War II veterinarians in the Pacific theatre. Dr. Munetsugu Ogata of Azabu University reported on the progress of veterinary dermatology in Japan. Dr. Billy Bergin, author of “Loyal to the Land: The Legendary Parker Ranch, 750-1950,” gave a historical review of the first century of veterinary medicine in Hawaii. Dr. Bergin, who served as veterinarian at Parker Ranch on the Big Island of Hawaii for more than 25 years, also described animal health practices at the ranch. Dr. Ben Okimoto, veterinarian at the Honolulu Zoo, spoke about the history of the zoo and the introduction of animals to the islands. Weining Zhao, first secretary of agriculture from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Washington, D.C., summarized the progression of veterinary medicine in China over the centuries. The history of veterinary disaster medicine was reviewed by Dr. Sebastian Heath, Washington, D.C. Drs. J. Alford Moore, Humble, Texas, and Sally Jepson, Corbett, Ore., described their experiences in videotaping interviews of past presidents of the Texas VMA and early women veterinarians, respectively.
Dr. Billy Bergin
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Awards: J. Fred Smithcors Student Veterinary History Essay Contest, sponsored by Merck & Company: First place ($750)—Amy Lynn, Cornell University, for “Cats are not small dogs: the emergence of feline medicine”; second place ($500)—David Gardiner, Cornell University, for “The age of veterinary specialization”; and third place ($250)—Melissa Bourgeois, University of Florida, for “From 1946 to the present—NASA's contribution to the veterinary medical sciences.”
Business: Dr. Phyllis Larsen, chair of the Committee on Students, presented a report concerning the establishment of a new Student Connections Panel. The panel's goal would be to increase student interest in the changes that have occurred in the art and science of veterinary medicine over time. The panel would also work on ways to promote veterinary history among students.
Officials: Col. Gary Vroegindewey, Falls Church, Va., president; Dr. Zbigniew Wojcinski, Ann Arbor, Mich., president-elect; Susanne Whitaker, Ithaca, N.Y., secretary-treasurer; and David J. Williams, West Lafayette, Ind., immediate past president
Contact: Susanne Whitaker, Secretary-Treasurer, American Veterinary Medical History Society, 23 Wedgewood Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850; phone, (607) 253-3499; fax, (607) 253-3080; skw2@cornell.edu; Web site, www.cvm.missouri.edu/avmhs
Lesbian and gay veterinarians
Event: Lesbian and Gay VMA meeting, July 17, Honolulu Awards: Annual Achievement Award: Dr. Vic Spain, Philadelphia, and Noel Rosales, MD, Philadelphia, were honored for outstanding service to the LGVMA. A 1993 graduate of the University of California-Davis, Dr. Spain is the bioterrorism and communicable disease epidemiologist for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. He has a special interest in zoonotic diseases of companion animals and urban wildlife and has conducted research on early-age spay and neuter in dogs and cats. Dr. Rosales is an attending pediatrician for Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and directs its Cultural Effectiveness Initiative. The LGVMA also dedicated an annual achievement award to all members of the veterinary profession who provided services and support to the animal and human victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Two scholarships in the amount of $500 were presented to Travis Reed (MSU '09) and Sara A. Stoll (WES '08). Officials: Drs. Michael D. McElvaine, Washington, D.C., president; Vic Spain, Philadelphia, secretary; Michael Miller, Alameda, Calif., treasurer; and members-at-large—Rosanne Hatcher, Salem, Wis., Jennifer Thomas, Royal Oak, Mich., and Joe “Chip” Wells, Washington, D.C.
LGVMA meeting attendees: Front row—Drs. Annette Drew, Stacy Rine, and Jennifer Thomas. Back row—Drs. Stuart Leland, Michael McElvaine, and Mel Vassey
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Contact: Dr. Michael D. McElvaine, President, Lesbian and Gay VMA, 1325 13th St. N.W. 32, Washington, DC 20005; phone, (202) 720-8121; fax, (202) 720-1815; mmcelvaine@aol.com; Web site, www.lgvma.org
Animal behaviorists
Event: Annual meeting, held jointly by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior and American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, July 17, Honolulu
ACVB: Front row—Drs. Lynne Seibert, Debra Horwitz, and Gary Landsberg. Back row—Drs. Barbara Simpson, Valarie Tynes, and Bonnie Beaver
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
AVSAB: Dr. Laurie Bergman, Dr. Melissa Bain, Sharon Bennett (Premier Pet Products), Emma Williford, and Christine Asgar
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Dr. Lisa Radosta-Huntley
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: There were approximately 100 attendees at the event.
Awards: AVSAB Student Research Award, sponsored by Premier Pet Products: Emma Williford (COR '07) and Christine Asgar (COR '07), for “Validation of in-shelter temperament tests by correlation with post adoption owner surveys.” ACVB R.K. Anderson Resident's Award, sponsored by Premier Pet Products: Dr. Lisa Radosta-Huntley, Glen Mills, Pa., for “Comparison of thyroid values in aggressive and non-aggressive dogs.”
Officials: AVSAB—Drs. John J. Ciribassi, Carol Stream, Ill., president; Kathy Meyer, Gaithersburg, Md., president-elect; Lisa Radosta-Huntley, Philadelphia, treasurer; Melissa Bain, Davis, Calif., immediate past president; Sophia Yin, Davis, Calif., recording secretary; and Laurie Bergman, Davis, Calif., member-atlarge; ACVB—Drs. Debra Horwitz, St. Louis, president; Barbara Simpson, Cary, N.C., president-elect; Lynne Seibert, Kenmore, Wash., secretarytreasurer; Gary Landsberg, Thornhill, Ontario, Canada, immediate past president; Bonnie Beaver, College Station, Texas, executive director; and members-at-large—Drs. Valarie Tynes, Fort Worth, Texas, and Vint Virga, East Greenwich, R.I.
Contact: AVSAB—Dr. John J. Ciribassi, President, American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, 1042 Mountain Glen Way, Carol Stream, IL 60188; phone, (630) 231-1544; fax, (630) 231-1544; drjdvm@gmail.com; Web site, www.avsab.us; ACVB—Dr. Gary Landsberg, Immediate Past President, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, Doncaster Animal Clinic, 99 Henderson Ave., Thornhill, Ontario, L3T2K9 Canada; phone, (905) 881-2922; fax, (905) 881-6726; gmlandvm@aol.com; Web site, www.dacvb.org
Christian Veterinary Mission
Event: Christian Veterinary Mission meeting, July 16, Honolulu
Program: The CVM provided an ecumenical worship service at the AVMA Annual Convention. Dr. Kit Flowers, executive director of the CVM, hosted the service and gave an overview of the work of the mission around the world. Dr. George Moore challenged the audience with his presentation “Continuing Education for Lessons from God.” At the CVM annual meeting, Dr. Peter Quesenberry spoke about his missionary work in Asia over the past 26 years, and Dr. Bob Hotts presented “Your Practice as Ministry.”
Drs. Kit Flowers, Bob Hotts, and Peter Quesenberry
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Contact: Dr. Kit Flowers, Executive Director, Christian Veterinary Mission, 19303 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98133; phone, (206) 546-7226; fax, (206) 546-7458; kflowers@cvmusa.org; Web site, www.cvmusa.org.
Women veterinarians
Event: Association for Women Veterinarians meeting, July 15, Honolulu Program: Dr. Lisa Freeman spoke on challenges for women veterinarians in academia. Patricia Lowrie discussed diversity in practice and empowerment.
Some AWV officials—Drs. Stacy Pritt, Lisa Freeman (Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges liaison), Michelle Kutzler (academic liaison), Debra Nickelson, Patty Scharko (author of AWVF constitution), Judy Spurling (small animal practice liaison), and Chris Stone-Payne (awards chair)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Awards: Outstanding Woman Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. Suzanne Kennedy-Stoskopf, Raleigh, N.C. A 1976 graduate of Michigan State University, Dr. Kennedy-Stoskopf is a research professor in both the Department of Population Health and Pathobiology and the Fisheries and Wildlife Department at North Carolina State University. Her research and clinical interests center on zoological medicine, the impacts of environmental factors on immune function in wildlife populations, and the health management of wild felids. Student scholarship awards: Sonja Banjanin, University of Guelph; Cassandra D. Mundy, Washington State University; Emily Wheeler, University of Illinois; and Stephanie Young, Kansas State University.
Business: This past year, the AWV evolved from a membership-based organization to a diversity partner with the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges to expand its mission of advocating for women and promoting leadership in the veterinary profession. A motion to change the name of the association to Association for Women Veterinarians Foundation was approved.
Officials: Drs. Debra Nickelson, Phoenix, president and acting secretary; Stacy Pritt, Boston, presidentelect; Elizabeth Boynton, Claremont, Calif., treasurer; and Michelle Le Blanc, Lexington, Ky., immediate past president Contact: Dr. Debra Nickelson, President, Association for Women Veterinarians, 15653 N. 18th St., Phoenix, AZ 85022; phone, (602) 207-2124; fax, (800) 215-5875; dnickelson@vpl.com; Web site, www.vet.ksu.edu/AWV/index.htm
Veterinary medical ethics
Event: Society of Veterinary Medical Ethics, July 15, Honolulu
Bernard E. Rollin, PhD
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Awards: Robert R. Shomer Award: Bernard E. Rollin, PhD, for outstanding contributions to veterinary medical ethics. University Distinguished Professor, professor of philosophy, biomedical sciences, and animal sciences, and university bioethicist at Colorado State University, Dr. Rollin is known for having reformed the use of animals in surgery teaching and laboratory exercises in veterinary schools and colleges. He taught the first course in veterinary medical ethics, which has been a required part of the veterinary curriculum at CSU since 1978. Dr. Rollin is a principal architect of 1985 federal legislation dealing with the welfare of animals used in research, has testified before Congress on animal experimentation, and has served as a consultant for the Department of Agriculture's Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service on welfare of farm animals used in research.
Officials: Drs. Anna E. Worth, Shaftsbury, Vt., president; Carol Morgan, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, president-elect; Gary Block, Coventry, R.I., secretary; John S. Wright, St. Paul, Minn., treasurer; and Barbara Horney, Prince Edward Island, Canada, immediate past president
Contact: Dr. John S. Wright, Treasurer, Society for Veterinary Medical Ethics, Veterinary Clinical Sciences Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, C339 Veterinary Medical Center, 1352 Boyd Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108; phone, (612) 626-1280; fax, (612) 624-0751; wrigh008@umn.edu; Web site, www.vetmed.wsu.edu/org%5FSVME/
Uniformed Services veterinarians
Event: Uniformed Services breakfast, July 17, Honolulu
Brig. Gen. Michael Cates, Capt. Nic Cabano, and Col. Dave Rolfe
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Program: Colonel John Poppe, deputy corps chief, opened the meeting and introduced Brig. Gen. Michael Cates, chief of the Army Veterinary Corps.
Brigadier General Cates thanked all the soldiers for their service to the country. He made mention of the veterinary corps' successful sponsoring of the AVMA 5K run in Honolulu and said sponsorship would be repeated in Washington, D.C., during the 2007 AVMA Annual Convention.
Awards: Exceptional Officer Award: Captain Nic Cabano, Yongsan, Korea. Captain Cabano was recognized for his dedication and passion while teaching at the Department of Veterinary Science at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and for his dedication to clinical research that directly benefited military working dogs. A 2003 veterinary graduate of the University of California-Davis, Capt. Cabano is chief of clinical operations for the 129th Medical Detachment in the Republic of Korea. He has attended airborne school, completed a clinical internship at the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Center, and served as the attending veterinarian and principal instructor at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, Army Medical Center and School. Captain Cabano presented “A retrospective study of two radiographic techniques for evaluation of hip dysplasia” at the International Working Dog Breeding Association conference in Melbourne, Australia.
Contact: Major Noreen A. Murphy, 2250 Stanley Road, Building 2840, Suite 288, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234; phone, (210) 221-8149; fax, (210) 221-8360; noreenmurphy@ln.amedd.army.mil
USDA celebrates 100 years of food safety
Federal Meat Inspection Act dates to 1906
The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service recently celebrated 100 years of protecting consumers by commemorating the centennial anniversary of the Federal Meat Inspection Act.
An employee with the Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service checks the packaging of meat. The USDA began the inspection of meat in 1906, of poultry in 1957, and of egg products in 1970.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt signed the act that requires the inspection of meat products and that slaughterhouses and processing plants operate under sanitary conditions. A year earlier, Upton Sinclair's book “The Jungle” had exposed unsanitary conditions in the Chicago meatpacking industry, which helped spur passage of the act.
In 2006, the FSIS employs more than 7,600 inspectors working with about 6,000 meat, poultry, and egg product facilities in the United States to ensure that products are safe and wholesome— and bear accurate labels. Personnel also inspect shipments of meat and poultry from other countries to ensure that products meet U.S. food safety requirements. The inspection service annually incorporates the results of more than 90,000 microbiologic tests for Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella organisms, and Listeria monocytogenes to further the goal of preventing contamination and protecting public health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has attributed substantial declines in rates of illness from foodborne pathogens to the implementation of FSIS food safety regulations.
The inspection service employs about 1,200 veterinarians in a variety of positions to protect the public from foodborne illnesses.
Researchers study noise, human contact in shelters
Recent research has examined the effect of noise and of human contact on dogs at animal shelters.
Crista Coppola, PhD, an adjunct instructor at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, authored articles about the studies with faculty from Colorado State University's Department of Animal Sciences—R. Mark Enns, PhD, assistant professor, and Temple Grandin, PhD, associate professor.
“Noise in the animal shelter environment: Building design and the effects of daily noise exposure” appeared in this year's first issue of the quarterly Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science.
The paper describes noise measurements at a shelter dating to 1999. Peak noise regularly exceeded the measuring capacity of the dosimeter, which was 118.9 decibels.
The authors assert that shelter design often fails to address noise abatement, despite evidence that noise causes stress in dogs.
The paper “Human interaction and cortisol: Can human contact reduce stress for shelter dogs?” appeared in the March 30 edition of the journal Physiology and Behavior. The article describes a study of dogs that engaged in a 45-minute human contact session during the second day in a shelter.
Researchers examined cortisol concentrations in salivary fluid from each dog on the second, third, fourth, and ninth days. Dogs that engaged in a human contact session had lower cortisol concentrations on the third day than dogs in a control group.
The researchers concluded that human contact might be an effective means of reducing the cortisol response of shelter dogs. The sessions also served as a resource for information about the dogs' temperaments and personalities that could facilitate adoptions.
Call out
Grants for feline health research available
The nonprofit Winn Feline Foundation is calling for grant proposals for 2007. In 2005, the foundation gave 11 research grants totaling $131,364 for medical problems relating to cats, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, diabetes, and infectious diseases, critical care, as well as for research on feline genetics, and drug treatments.
Studies applicable to all cats are encouraged. The Winn Feline Foundation is also interested in projects that address problems in individual breeds. This year, the foundation is particularly interested in research into mediastinal lymphoma, mammary adenocarcinoma, and inherited hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
The application deadline is Dec. 4, 2006. The maximum grant amount is $15,000, and awards will be announced in March 2007. Multiyear proposals totaling more than $15,000 will not be considered. Additional funds may be available for breedrelated studies.
NAVTA turns 25
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
A group of veterinary technicians created NAVTA in 1981 to raise awareness about the role of technicians in veterinary medicine. The association has committed itself to education, communication, and strategic relationships with the AVMA and other veterinary associations.
“Among its successes, NAVTA has changed the professional nomenclature so that it appropriately reflects the skill sets of veterinary technicians; attained positions of influence on national committees, councils, and task forces; established a quality journal; and expanded services provided by veterinary technicians through the development of technician specialties in critical care, anesthesia, and dentistry,” said Dr. Janet D. Donlin, assistant executive vice president of the AVMA, who started out as a veterinary technician.
The NAVTA Journal was launched in December 2002 as an outlet for the association and members, as well as a source for continuing education and informative articles.
“The NAVTA Journal has been a visible sign of our growth and position in the profession,” said Patrick Navarre, veterinary technician and NAVTA executive director. “It has also increased awareness about our organization.”
Also, NAVTA has established a presence on the Web at www.navta.net. The site includes survey data, organization information, and upcoming events. It also offers an online career center, credential information, and links to CE programs.
For the past 13 years, the association has celebrated National Veterinary Technician Week every October to educate the public about the role of veterinary technicians in the care of animals. This year's event runs Oct.15-21. “We CARE!” is the theme, bringing to the forefront the nature of this caring profession.
College news
Hoffsis to head Florida veterinary college
The University of Florida has appointed Dr. Glen F. Hoffsis as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, effective Oct. 1. He succeeds Dr. Joseph DiPietro, who was dean for nine years. Dr. James P. Thompson has served as interim dean.
Dr. Glen F. Hoffsis
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Most recently, Dr. Hoffsis was the associate director of veterinary services at Iams Co. Previously, he had a long career at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine culminating with 11 years as dean.
During Dr. Hoffsis' term, Ohio State moved from limited to full accreditation. The budget grew, research expanded, and the college added three buildings as well as nine endowed chairs and professorships— including the endowed deanship.
Dr. Hoffsis also is a past president of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, past president of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, and former chairman of the Food and Drug Administration's Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee.
He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and graduated from Ohio State in 1966.
Cornell to build diagnostic center
Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine plans to build an $80 million Animal Health Diagnostic Center.
The college recently received a $50 million grant from the state of New York toward construction of the 126,000-square-foot center. The university and other sources will contribute an additional $30 million.
The center should be complete in 2010, when it will replace existing facilities dating to 1978. The new facilities will incorporate laboratories at biosafety level 3 to enable the safe and reliable handling of highly pathogenic organisms.
Cornell's diagnostic center is a member of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. Every year, the facilities conduct about a million tests on more than 150,000 samples from across the United States and Canada. Cornell works with the state of New York to ensure the early detection and control of pathogens that can affect the health of animals and humans.
At the announcement of the $50 million grant, New York Gov. George Pataki said to faculty and staff, “You have the brainpower, you have the education, you have the commitment, and now what you need are the resources.”
Donations support a plethora of programs at colleges
Veterinary colleges have recently received funding benefiting a teaching hospital, shelter medicine, equine research, and wildlife health.
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine received $1 million from Robert Lowder, a university trustee, and his wife, Charlotte. The funds will support the Small Animal Teaching Hospital, which has treated two of their Boxers.
The University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine accepted $1 million from Koret Foundation Funds of San Francisco for the Koret Shelter Medicine Program—as the school will call the program during a five-year funding commitment.
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences accepted $1 million from horse enthusiasts Jon and Abby Winkelried. The gift will go to the Gail Holmes Equine Orthopaedic Research Center and the Equine Reproduction Laboratory.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine received $1.45 million from Janet Swanson, wife of a university alumnus. The gift will endow a residency at Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program and fund relocation of the Wildlife Health Clinic.
The University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine received the first Equine Consortium for Genetic Research grant through the Morris Animal Foundation. The foundation will raise $2.5 million for the grant.
Hundreds attend Veterinary Scholars Symposium
The Merck-Merial Veterinary Scholars Symposium attracted almost 300 students and scientists this year to Louisiana State University's School of Veterinary Medicine.
The annual event caps off summer training programs across the United States and Canada that introduce veterinary students to biomedical research.
Elizabeth McIlwain, an echocardiography technician, shows imaging of a rodent heart to a group of students taking a tour of Louisiana State University's School of Veterinary Medicine during the Merck-Merial Veterinary Scholars Symposium.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
Opening the 2006 symposium was Dr. William L. Jenkins, LSU system president and former dean of the veterinary school. The event's keynote speakers were Dr. Joan Hendricks, dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, and Dr. Ronald Veazey, chair of the Tulane National Primate Research Center's Division of Comparative Pathology.
Students presented more than 200 posters at the event. Faculty from LSU and from the primate research center organized six minisymposia on various topics in veterinary medical and biomedical research—including cancer biology, infectious disease, and experimental cardiology.
For the second year, finalists in the Young Investigator Award Competition for veterinary and doctoral students presented their research findings. For the first time, training-grant directors from the National Institutes of Health National Center for Research Resources held their meeting in conjunction with the symposium.
Directors of postdoctoral programs presented information about their institutions to the students and held individual discussions about research training opportunities available after veterinary college.
The students at the event hailed from 23 U.S. veterinary colleges, one Canadian veterinary college, and a research program at the NIH National Cancer Institute.
The 2006 symposium received support from the Merck Foundation, Merial Ltd., the AVMA, the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, the Louisiana VMA, and the LSU chapter of Phi Zeta.
Next year's symposium will be on the NIH campus.
Colleges partner to address public and animal health threats
Experts from the colleges of veterinary medicine at Michigan State University and the University of Minnesota are teaming up to increase collaboration between public health and animal health sectors against some of the world's most menacing public health threats.
The project aims to identify forces driving the emergence of new diseases and the worldwide implications, establish a shared vision for effective response, develop strategies for targeted activities, and sustain leadership and cross-disciplinary collaborations to successfully address these challenges.
All of these pursuits will involve a broad range of representatives from government, academia, and the private sector, as well as international representatives. This initiative will bring together organizations that have not previously worked together.
“We've seen West Nile virus, SARS, monkeypox, and avian influenza emerge from the animal world and create serious health threats to people, and there are many more diseases like them lined up,” said Dr. Lonnie King, former dean of MSU's College of Veterinary Medicine and co-principal investigator of the project.
The project is funded with a $1.4 million grant from the W. K. Kellogg Foundation and additional contributions from Michigan State University and the University of Minnesota.
This initiative aims to develop a cadre of leaders from higher education, the private sector, and government regulatory agencies who can work effectively at the intersection of animal and public health.
“Starting with key leaders and decision makers in higher education, the private sector, and government oversight agencies, we urgently need to create a shared understanding and develop actionable alternatives that address these issues in a proactive rather than reactive manner,” said Dr. Kevin Walker, professor at the National Food Safety & Toxicology Center at MSU, and co-principal investigator.
It is estimated that 75 percent of the newly emerging diseases are transmitted from animals and humans, according to Dr. Will Hueston, professor at both the College of Veterinary Medicine and School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota, director of the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, and co-principal investigator.
“Diseases that transmit between animals and humans are not new; what is new is the potential magnitude and complexity of the biological, socioeconomic, and environmental factors involved,” Dr. Hueston said.
University of Georgia opens research center
The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine has opened a $63 million Animal Health Research Center.
The objective of the center is to facilitate research on vaccines, diagnostics, and therapies for em rging infectious diseases of zoonotic origin.
The three-story facility provides office and laboratory space for 50 investigators and staff. Other university researchers as well as federal and industry scientists also will have access to the center's laboratories—some of which meet the requirements for federal biosafety level 3—agricultural.
Ralph Tripp, PhD, will lead the vaccine development laboratory. His team is studying potential vaccines for emerging infectious diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome and avian influenza.
accolades
Academia
Charles Czuprynski, PhD, recently became the first director of the Walter and Martha Renk Endowed Laboratory in Food Safety at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine. His laboratory will receive about $75,000 annually for five years, with an option for renewal following a review. He plans to use the endowment to expand his laboratory's work on listeriosis.
Dr. Robert A. Smith (KSU '76), Stillwater, Okla., has received a 2006 Distinguished Alumnus Award from Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine and its Veterinary Medical Alumni Association. The bovine practitioner spent most of his career on the faculty at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Smith now works for Veterinary Research and Consulting Services. He is a member of the board of the Western Veterinary Conference and the U.S. Animal Identification Organization as well as a past president of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners and the Academy of Veterinary Consultants.
Associations
The Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association has named Dr. Richard Blake (OKL '61) as the 2006 Veterinarian of the Year. Dr. Blake worked in Cherokee, Okla., and Sulphur Springs, Texas, before establishing his practice in Oklahoma City in 1965. He is active in the Oklahoma VMA and many civic organizations.
Dr. Richard Blake
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 229, 7; 10.2460/javma.229.7.1059
industry initiatives
Educating clients through Pet Diabetes Month
Fewer than half the 2,300 pet owners surveyed recently by Intervet Inc. realize that dogs and cats can develop diabetes, but almost all said that if it were diagnosed in their pet, they would take on added responsibilities to ensure its health.
Intervet hopes to increase awareness of diabetes in dogs and cats and to advance veterinarian-client dialogue by declaring November as Pet Diabetes Month, in conjunction with American Diabetes Month.
The company is offering veterinarians tools for their clients that provide information about prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, and management and treatment options. Veterinarians can visit www.petdiabetesmonth.com to order the free materials.
“The general lack of awareness and concern, coupled with an increase in the prevalence of the disease among cats and dogs, means now is the time to help educate pet owners about all aspects of diabetes,” said Dr. Travis Meredith, companion animal product manager.
Nearly all respondents in the survey stated that if diabetes were diagnosed in their pet, adjusting its diet would be an actionable, convenient treatment option. More than 70 percent would administer daily medication or adjust a pet's exercise routine.
Delivering Meals On Wheels—to pets
Senior recipients of Meals On Wheels who have companion animals may receive pet food in addition to their own meals this holiday season.
Banfield, The Pet Hospital, and the Meals On Wheels Association of America have partnered to launch “Season of Suppers, a Pet Food Drive for Pets in Need.” The pet food drive will kick off Nov. 1 and continue through the year. The sponsors hope to collect more than a million pounds of pet food in Banfield hospitals.
After realizing that, like their owners, the pets of many seniors who receive Meals On Wheels also need nutritious food, MOWAA created “We All Love Our Pets,” an initiative that seeks to unite Meals On Wheels programs across the country that are providing pet food. Although many Meals On Wheels programs have their own pet food services, the Banfield/MOWAA partnership is national in scope. Throughout the Season of Suppers campaign, Banfield hospitals not only will encourage and collect pet food donations but also monetary contributions for MOWAA/WALOP, striving to raise $100,000 for the new program. In addition, the hospitals will help connect people interested in volunteering with their local Meals On Wheels programs.
Campaign reaches out to pets affected by disasters
Merial launched the “Paws to Save Pets” campaign in August. To continue their support of disaster relief for pets in need, the company will donate up to $500,000 each to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation and the Petfinder.com Foundation. Donations from the campaign will be used for products, services, and shelters to help pets displaced or injured in upcoming disasters.
The 2006 campaign will build on the success of the 2005 “Race to Save Pets,” which raised in excess of $1 million in cash and millions more in products for pets affected by natural disasters, including hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Some 3,000 veterinary clinics participated.
“Last year's ‘Race to Save Pets’ was able to help more than 17,000 animals and reunite approximately 3,200 pets with their owners,” said Dr. Roger Wakelin, head of U.S. Companion Animal Veterinary Services, Merial.
Each participating clinic will be equipped with a “Paws to Save Pets” kit to help veterinarians convey how their clients can assist animals in need through this campaign. Veterinarians can talk with their Merial representative about implementing the program and find additional information, including a list of states eligible to participate in the coupon portion of the program, at www.pawstosavepets.com.
Simple device enhances health of arthritic dogs
Twenty percent of adult dogs are afflicted with osteoarthritis, estimates Novartis Animal Health US Inc., and many more are considered at high risk of developing the condition. Novartis is helping veterinarians to get senior dogs and those with osteoarthritis up and playing again.
The company's “Steps to Play More” initiative revolves around a pedometer calibrated for dogs that can help motivate exercise by way of owners who monitor their pet's daily activity. Novartis cited a June 15, 2005 JAVMA report on use of pedometers to measure physical activity in dogs. The results suggested that pedometers can measure physical activity in dogs with reasonable accuracy.
A supply of free pedometers was sent to each of 4,000 U.S. veterinary practices for distribution to owners with arthritic or at-risk dogs. Other veterinarians interested in participating can contact a company representative or Novartis professional services at (800) 637-0281.
With advice from their veterinarians, owners can use the pedometers to track the daily activity level of their dogs and record the number of steps online at www.stepstoplaymore.com. The pedometer and online tracker provide a week-to-week gauge of the dog's progress.
Dental resource book available
A dental resource for veterinarians and veterinary staff is now available in its fifth edition. The “Smile Book V” addresses dental protocols from start to finish and offers guidance for implementing the American Animal Hospital Association Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats.
This resource was produced through a grant from Merial.
The AAHA dental guidelines recommend a six-step dental cleaning, starting with an oral evaluation. In addition to a step-by-step guide for veterinarians on providing a complete dental cleaning, the book includes a glossary of equipment, recommendations regarding anesthesia, and tips for completing dental records.
“The AAHA dental guidelines stress the importance of complete dental care, and ‘The Smile Book V’ is the handbook veterinarians should use to put the guidelines into action,” said Dr. Jan Bellows, who is a diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College and the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners and author of the book.
“Both new and seasoned practitioners can benefit from the book's fresh perspective on dental care.”
Veterinarians interested in receiving a free copy should ask their Merial sales representative for more information.
AVMA Honor Roll Member: AVMA Member: AVMA Nonmember
Harold C. Ayres Jr.
Dr. Ayres (UP '51), 86, Phoenixville, Pa., died May 4, 2006. Prior to retirement in 1991, he practiced at Valley Forge Animal Hospital in Valley Forge, Pa. Dr. Ayres was a member of the Pennsylvania VMA. A World War II veteran, he served in the Army, attaining the rank of first lieutenant. Dr. Ayres received a Purple Heart, an Oak Leaf Cluster, and a Bronze Star.
He was a charter member of the Phoenixville Area Historical Society and served on the Zoning Board of Phoenixville for 11 years. Dr. Ayres' wife, Janet; two sons; and a daughter survive him. His brother-in-law, Dr. Charles W. Koenig (UP '57), is a veterinarian in Limerick, Pa. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 865 S. Main St., Phoenixville, PA 19460; Phoenixville YMCA, 400 E. Pothouse Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460; or The Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area, 204 Church St., Phoenixville, PA 19460.
Frederick W. Baker
Dr. Baker (TEX '43), 88, MacKay, Idaho, died July 16, 2006. He practiced in Blanchardville, Wis., for 32 years, focusing on dairy cattle. Dr. Baker was a member and a past director of the Wisconsin VMA. A veteran of World War II, he served in the Army, attaining the rank of captain. Dr. Baker was a member of the American Legion. He served on the Blanchardville school board and city council. Dr. Baker's wife, Shirley; four sons; a daughter; and four stepchildren survive him. Memorials may be made to the McKeller Memorial Park, c/o Bruce Baker, P.O. Box 187, Blanchardville, WI 53516.
Raiford L. Claxton Jr.
Dr. Claxton (GA '94), 42, West Roxbury, Mass., died July 24, 2006. He practiced in Boston and Worcester, Mass., for the past 12 years. Dr. Claxton was a member of the Massachusetts VMA. Memorials may be made to Faulkner Hospital, Philanthropy Office, 1153 Center St., West Roxbury, MA 02130.
George W. Dimmick
Dr. Dimmick (MSU '57), 78, Crawfordsville, Ind., died June 5, 2006. From 1975 until retirement in 1998, he served as the director of the meat and poultry division of the Indiana State Board of Animal Health. Earlier in his career, Dr. Dimmick owned Portland Veterinary Clinic in Portland, Ind., for 17 years. He was a member of the Indiana, Central Indiana, and West Central Indiana VMAs.
A veteran of World War II, Dr. Dimmick served in the Navy. His wife, Marlyn; a daughter; two sons; and a stepdaughter survive him. Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 207, Crawfordsville, IN 47933; American Heart Association, 2085 S. LaSalle St., Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60604; Leukemia Society, P.O. Box 4072, Pillsfield, MA 01202; or Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, A-133 East Fee Hall, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Donald A. Kendall
Dr. Kendall (MSU '41), 88, Williamsburg, Mich., died July 21, 2006. Prior to retirement, he worked for the Department of Agriculture. Before that, Dr. Kendall held a position with the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Early in his career, he was in mixed practice in Maple Rapids, Mich., for 30 years. Dr. Kendall was a member of the Michigan VMA. A World War II veteran, he served as a captain in the Army Veterinary Corps.
Dr. Kendall's two sons and a daughter survive him. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 102454, Atlanta, GA 30368; or Kewadin United Methodist Church, 7234 Cairn Hwy., Kewadin, MI 49648.
Bernard Lehman
Dr. Lehman (KSU '49), 84, Manchester, N.J., died May 21, 2006. He owned Hackensack Animal Hospital, a small animal practice, in Hackensack, N.J., for 35 years. Dr. Lehman also founded the Bergen County Emergency Veterinary Service. He was a member of the Northern New Jersey VMA and the Hackensack Rotary Club. Dr. Lehman's wife, Beatrice, and two sons survive him.
Philip R. Mauro
Dr. Mauro (COL '59), 71, Espanola, N.M., died July 14, 2006. He established Mauro Veterinary Clinic in Espanola, practicing there for 42 years. Dr. Mauro was a past president of the New Mexico VMA and a charter and executive board member of the Santa Fe Emergency Clinic.
David A. McConnell
Dr. McConnell (ILL '56), 75, Dundee, Ill., died July 24, 2006. In 1957, he founded what is now known as Dundee Animal Hospital. From 1987-1995, Dr. McConnell served as a representative on the AVMA Professional Liability Insurance Trust, now called AVMA PLIT. He was a past president of the Chicago, Northern Illinois, and Kane County VMAs. Dr. McConnell served on the Illinois Veterinary Licensing and Disciplinary Board. He chaired the Illinois State VMA Legislative Committee and received the ISVMA President's Award in 1998.
Dr. McConnell is survived by his wife, Bonnie; two daughters; and a son. Memorials may be made to the David McConnell Fund for ALS Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Attention: Heather Brennan, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Abbott Hall #1312, 710 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611.
Katherine L. Momeier
Dr. Momeier (GA '82), 55, Sullivans Island, S.C., died Feb. 9, 2006.
Howard W. Ronk
Dr. Ronk (KSU '47), 80, Twin Falls, Idaho, died July 6, 2006. Prior to retirement, he owned Green Cross Veterinary Hospital in Twin Falls. Dr. Ronk was a past president of the Idaho VMA and served on the Idaho Board of Veterinary Medicine for three years. Active in civic life, he was a past board trustee and chairman of the Twin Falls School District.
Dr. Ronk's wife, Nelda; two sons; and a daughter survive him. His nephew, Dr. Marvin E. Turner (KSU '68), is a veterinarian in Chico, Calif. Memorials may be made to the music department of First United Methodist Church, 360 Shoshone St. East, Twin Falls, ID 83301.
Carlton L. Ulrich
Dr. Ulrich (COR '43), 86, Peoria, Ariz., died Feb. 2, 2006.
