IN SHORT
Education council schedules site visits
The AVMA Council on Education has scheduled site visits to six schools and colleges of veterinary medicine for the remainder of 2024.
Comprehensive site visits are planned for Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, October 6-11; the University of Saskatchewan Western College of Veterinary Medicine, October 20-24; Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, November 3-10; the University of Prince Edward Island Atlantic Veterinary College, November 17-21; and Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, December 1-5. A comprehensive site visit is also planned for the proposed Utah State University College of Veterinary Medicine, October 27-31.
The council welcomes written comments on these plans or the programs to be evaluated. Comments should be addressed to Dr. Karen Martens Brandt, Director, Education and Research Division, AVMA, 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173. Comments must be signed by the person submitting them to be considered.
FDA reaffirms prescribing, VCPR requirements according to federal law
In response to questions about requirements under federal law, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has addressed aspects of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) pertinent to a veterinarian’s role in prescribing animal drugs and the federal veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR).
The FDA issued its “Dear Veterinarian” letter on September 4 as a reminder and educational effort for veterinarians.
With a few groups pushing for a midlevel practitioner (MLP), who could diagnose, prescribe, and perform surgery after completing a mostly online master’s program with minimal hands-on training, the FDA has been asked whether nonveterinarians can prescribe or dispense, acting under a compilation of protocols. In the document, the FDA clearly indicates that a MLP cannot legally prescribe or dispense under federal law, stating, “Given current federal law and regulations, a licensed veterinarian’s direct involvement and oversight is required.”
Plus, the FDA reminds veterinarians they must comply with the federal VCPR where it applies and, in those cases, it cannot be established through telemedicine. The VCPR can be maintained using telemedicine between physical examinations or timely and medically appropriate visits to the premises where the animal is kept.
Veterinarinan chosen to lead military hospital
Col. Stephanie Mont was recently named the next commander of Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) at Fort Liberty, North Carolina.
WAMC is one of the flagship hospitals of U.S. Army Medicine and the Defense Health Agency. Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg, is home to the Army’s Airborne and Special Operations Forces.
Col. Stephanie Mont (Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
After Col. Mont received her veterinary degree in 2001 from Texas A&M University, she joined the Army as a Veterinary Corps officer. Col. Mont is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine.
Col. Mont was the first veterinary preventive medicine officer to serve as director of the Department of Defense’s LTC Daniel E. Holland Military Working Dog Hospital at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.
Prior to her most recent appointment, she served as commander of Public Health Command–West at Joint Base San Antonio, which provides regular veterinary service, environmental health, and industrial hygiene support as well as other public health mission support across the U.S.
Colorado ballot measure calls for nonveterinarians to diagnose, do surgery
Colorado Ballot Measure 129 will ask voters whether the state should establish the position of veterinary professional associate
By Malinda Larkin
An unprecedented ballot measure in Colorado seeks to create a new midlevel practitioner (MLP) position in veterinary medicine that, if approved by voters this fall, raises serious concerns about the future of quality care for veterinary patients.
Colorado Ballot Measure 129 will ask voters whether the state should establish the position of veterinary professional associate (VPA). The VPA’s duties would overlap those of a veterinarian and veterinary technician. Working under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, they would be able to diagnose, prognose, recommend treatment plans, and perform surgery.
One of the campaign’s sponsors, All Pets Deserve Vet Care, submitted about 200,000 signatures for the initiative on July 29. To qualify for the ballot, 124,238 valid signatures were required. The Colorado Secretary of State certified the ballot initiative on August 28, which means Colorado residents will have their say on November 5.
The AVMA opposes the initiative as do multiple other veterinary organizations, including the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP), American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV), American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC), American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association (IVPA), and Veterinary Management Groups (VMG) as well as the Colorado VMA (CVMA) and others across the state. Three out of four veterinarians in Colorado oppose the measure, according to a CVMA survey.
AVMA President Sandra Faeh said, “This ballot measure attempting to create a ‘veterinary professional associate’ would be disastrous for pets and other animals and endangers public health, considering that 75% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate with animals.
“The proposed training for this position is completely inadequate and will lead to missed or delayed diagnoses, ineffective treatment and repeat visits, all of which lead to more suffering for the animal and increased cost for the client.”
The Animal Welfare Association of Colorado, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), and the Virtual Veterinary Care Association support the initiative.
The measure “Establish Qualifications and Registration for Veterinary Professional Associate” brings up concerns about scope of practice, legal liability, and patient care.
VPA position details
The ballot measure says the Colorado State Board of Veterinary Medicine (CSBVM) would oversee the examination and qualification processes for this midlevel position as well as issue and renew registrations and set fees. This would all take effect January 15, 2027, if passed.
Were that to happen, further legal and practical hurdles would remain, chief among them being federal regulations. Currently, only veterinarians can prescribe and dispense medications, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Addressing this functional issue would require legislative and regulatory changes not only in Colorado, but also 49 other states, territories, and at the federal level.
“Why would we be creating a position that mimics and duplicates what we already have … if this person is not allowed to do their own diagnosing and prescribing (without a supervising veterinarian present)? They are just basically following a recipe,” said Colorado Rep. Karen McCormick, who is a veterinarian from Longmont.
The VPA position would require a master’s degree. However, there is no currently accredited national educational program, national test, or regulatory structure to assure competence and public protection.
Colorado State University (CSU) College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences is in the process of developing a degree program for a Plan B Master’s of Veterinary Clinical Care (MSB VCC) to fulfill the requirements.
Rep. McCormick, who has seen the proposed curriculum, said the program would consist of three semesters of fully online lecture with no laboratory, a fourth semester of basic clinical skills training, and a short internship.
“How do we assure the public that this person has the proper skill set to perform surgery or prescribe? That they have reached a baseline level of competency and have had enough practice and training to minimize mistakes or miscommunications? None of that is in place or plans to be in place in the near future for this potential position,” she said.
Numerous veterinary organizations have come out in opposition on Colorado Ballot Measure 129, saying it presents dangerous risks by allowing veterinary professional associates to practice the full scope of veterinary medicine—including performing surgery—with inadequate, mostly online training. (Photo by Dr. Emmanuelle Lemaire-Galliot)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
Rep. McCormick added that, given the proposed VPA would operate under a supervising veterinarian, the veterinarian would be liable for all actions of that VPA, including errors made during surgery.
The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) issued a statement earlier this year saying that it stands universally opposed to allowing nonveterinarians to perform any surgical procedures on animals.
“The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) strongly opposes these efforts and believes they will result in increased risk to animal health and safety. All surgical procedures, even those considered routine, have inherent risks that can lead to serious complications (e.g., bruising, pain, bleeding) and even patient death if not performed by trained, qualified personnel. Only a licensed primary care veterinarian and for many procedures a board-certified veterinary surgeon has the education and training necessary to safely perform surgeries on animals and address any associated issues that can arise when performing these surgeries,” according to the statement.
Support and opposition
Dr. Apryl Steele, CEO of the Dumb Friends League, which sponsors the initiative, has cited a workforce shortage for the reason behind the proposed position Meanwhile, there’s been a slowdown in the volume of veterinary services, according to the Veterinary Industry Tracker, with visits down 2.5% year-to-date.
Recent surveys of veterinarians have indicated widespread opposition to the creation of a midlevel position.
A 2023 American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) survey found most North American veterinarians and veterinary technicians are opposed to creating a new MLP and supported better utilization of credentialed veterinary technicians (CrVTs) as a means to help alleviate veterinary workforce shortages.
VMG, a professional membership organization for practice owners who want to improve the business side of their practice, also conducted a 2024 survey regarding the creation of a midlevel position. Their surveyed members were overwhelmingly against the idea of the position.
There also many unknowns regarding how a midlevel veterinary practitioner would impact the veterinary workforce. While proponents of this proposed role argue that it will help relieve workforce shortages, there is no evidence to suggest these individuals will be any more likely to practice in areas that are underserved than will veterinarians.
In fact, Colorado’s legislature passed a bill earlier this year, sponsored by Rep. McCormick, that addresses much of what the ballot measure proposes to do.
Colorado House Bill 24-1047 clarifies and expands the scope of practice for registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) and VTSs while also providing clarity for veterinarians on tasks they can delegate to veterinary staff members. This law goes into effect January 1, 2026.
It directs the CSBVM to adopt rules by September 1, 2025, that give licensed veterinarians the ability to delegate certain technical tasks—and with what level of supervision—to RVTs, VTSs, or other veterinary staff members.
The current ballot measure would negate much of what was achieved in that bill.
Dr. Kelly Walsh, president of the CVMA, has said the current ballot measure would compromise and threaten the health and safety of animals and pets. In an op-ed she wrote in July, Dr. Walsh said it “presents dangerous risks by permitting VPAs to practice the full scope of veterinary medicine—including performing surgery—with inadequate, mostly online training. Surgical procedures, even routine surgeries, are highly complex and require extensive veterinary training and expertise. Allowing inadequately prepared individuals to perform such procedures fundamentally undermines veterinary care and places animal lives in jeopardy.”
FDA approves first generic drug for hyperthyroidism in cats
Other drug approvals include first drug for use in wild quail
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved several animal drugs earlier this year, including those that treat hyperthyroidism in cats and urinary incontinence in dogs. In addition, the agency is advising veterinarians and pharmacists to use Bimasone flumethasone injectable solution instead of unapproved drugs in their patients.
Felanorm
On July 9, the FDA announced it had approved Felanorm, the first generic methimazole oral solution for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats.
Felanorm contains 5 mg of methimazole per 1 mL of solution while the approved brand name drug product, Felimazole Coated Tablets, come in 2.5 mg and 5 mg tablet sizes. Felimazole was first approved in 2009.
The new generic antithyroid drug, available only by prescription from a licensed veterinarian, needs continued veterinary monitoring to ensure that the dose continues to be appropriate to control the cat’s hyperthyroidism, according to the FDA.
Felanorm is supplied in 30- or 100-mL bottles with a 1 mL dosing syringe. It is dosed in 2.5 mg increments, every 12 hours. Dose adjustments should be made in 2.5 mg increments. The maximum total dosage is 20 mg per day divided, not to exceed 10 mg as a single administration.
People administering the drug should wear protective single-use, impermeable gloves and wash their hands with soap and water afterward to avoid exposure to the drug.
Felanorm is sponsored by Norbrook Laboratories Ltd., based in the United Kingdom.
MoxiSolv Injection
The FDA announced on July 2 it had approved MoxiSolv Injection, a generic moxidectin injectable solution, for beef and nonlactating dairy cattle. The antiparasitic is used for the treatment and control of internal and external parasites of cattle, including gastrointestinal roundworms, lungworms, cattle grubs, mites, and lice.
The drug contains the same active ingredient, moxidectin, in the same concentration and dosage form as the brand-name drug product, Cydectin, first approved for use in beef and nonlactating cattle in 2005.
MoxiSolv is supplied in 200- or 500-mL multi-dose bottles. It is available over the counter and is administered by injection at a dosage of 1 mL for each 110 lb (50 kg) body weight. Each mL contains 0.2 mg of moxidectin, sufficient to treat 2.2 lb (0.2 mg/kg) of body weight.
Data demonstrate that residues in food products derived from beef and nonlactating dairy cattle treated with MoxiSolv Injection will not represent a public health concern if the product is used properly.
MoxiSolv is sponsored by Bimeda Animal Health Ltd., based in Dublin.
Trimeprazine with Prednisolone
On June 20, the FDA announced approval of Trimeprazine with Prednisolone tablets as an antipruritic and antitussive for dogs with itch and cough conditions. This is the first generic trimeprazine with prednisolone tablets for dogs. The tablets are bioequivalent to the brand-name drug product, Temaril-P.
This antihistamine and corticosteroid reduces the inflammation commonly associated with most skin disorders of dogs such as the eczema caused by internal disorders, otitis, and dermatitis.
Felanorm is the first generic Food and Drug Administration–approved methimazole oral solution for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats. (Courtesy of Norbrook Laboratories Ltd.)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
Trimeprazine with prednisolone is recommended for the treatment of canine infectious respiratory disease complex, also known as “kennel cough,” or tracheobronchitis, bronchitis, and infections of nonspecific origin.
The drug is available by prescription in 100- and 1000-count bottles. Each tablet contains 5 mg trimeprazine as trimeprazine tartrate and 2 mg prednisolone. The initial dosage regimen depends on the dog’s weight:
Up to 10 lb receive half a tablet, twice daily
11 – 20 lb receive one tablet, twice daily
21 – 40 lb receive two tablets, twice daily
Over 40 lb receive three tablets, twice daily
After four days, the dosage is reduced to half of the initial dose or an amount that is enough to maintain remission of symptoms.
Timeprazine with prednisolone is sponsored by ZyVet Animal Health, Inc., based in Pennington, New Jersey.
Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride
The FDA announced June 11 it had approved the first generic drug for the control of urinary incontinence due to urethral sphincter hypotonus in dogs.
Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride chewable tablets contain the same active ingredient in the same concentration and dosage form as the approved brand name drug product, Proin chewable tablets, which were first approved in 2011.
The generic version, available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian, comes in 25, 50 and 75 mg half-scored chewable tablets and comes with 60 or 180 count bottles. The dosage should be calculated in half-tablet increments and should be administered orally at a total daily dose of 2 mg/kg (0.91 mg/lb) of body weight twice daily.
Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride chewable tablets are sponsored by ZyVet Animal Health Inc., based in Pennington, New Jersey.
Safe-Guard
On May 23, the FDA issued a supplemental approval for Safe-Guard, an anthelmintic containing fenbendazole, for the treatment of gastrointestinal worms (Aulonocephalus spp.) in wild quail.
This is the first animal drug approval for use in wild quail.
Some of the studies that supported the approval of Safe-Guard in wild quail were conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Minor Use Animal Drug Program in collaboration with researchers from Texas Tech Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory.
The FDA determined that fenbendazole is safe and effective, and that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm for residues of fenbendazole in the edible tissues of treated quail following human consumption. Fenbendazole is marketed as a Type A medicated article but can be used in the manufacture of Type B and Type C medicated feeds.
Wild quail should be administered 90.7g of fenbendazole per ton of Type C medicated feed, to be fed for 21 consecutive days. Safe-Guard is available over the counter and is supplied in 25-pound bags.
The drug was previously approved for the treatment of certain intestinal parasites in other animal species, such as cattle, swine, and turkeys. Safe-Guard is sponsored by Intervet Inc., based in Rahway, New Jersey.
Bimasone letters
On July 10, the FDA sent a “Dear Veterinarian” letter advising practitioners to use Bimasone, a flumethasone injectable solution, instead of unapproved drugs in their patients. The same day, the FDA sent a “Dear Pharmacy Professional” letter advising pharmacies to dispense Bimasone instead of unapproved drugs for animal patients.
The FDA approved Bimasone in April 2023 for use in horses, dogs, and cats for the various rheumatic, allergic, dermatologic, and other conditions known to be responsive to anti-inflammatory corticosteroids.
Bimasone is the first generic flumethasone product to receive FDA approval. It contains the same active ingredient, flumethasone, in the same concentration and dosage form as the approved brand name drug product, Flucort.
Bimasone is available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian and is supplied in a 0.5-mg/mL concentration in 100-mL multi-dose vials. Approved dosage regimens vary by species and circumstance. Unapproved flumethasone products should not be imported from other countries for use in animal patients, according to the agency. Any compounded animal drug, including a compounded flumethasone product, is not FDA-approved.
“Unlike FDA-approved Bimasone, compounded and other unapproved formulations of flumethasone have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness and may vary in quality. It is especially important for injectable medications, such as flumethasone, to be sterile,” the Letter to Veterinarian stated.
Ensuring the quality of high-volume spay-neuter
A veterinarian at a typical high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter (HQHVSN) clinic may do as many as 60 surgeries in a day, which have caused some to question whether these operations sacrifice quality for the sake of numbers.
A growing body of research, however, shows HQHVSN surgeries that follow veterinary guidelines can be done quickly and at a high standard without compromising patient health or welfare, according to Dr. Becky L. Morrow.
“Keep in mind these techniques are backed by over 15 years of experience and tens of thousands of patients. They’re backed by experts in the field, including board-certified surgeons, specialists in shelter medicine, public health, and animal behavior, and backed by the scientific literature,” she said.
Dr. Morrow is an assistant teaching professor at Pennsylvania State University and an adjunct professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. She was skeptical initially of HQHVSN until she began reading scientific reports compiled by the Association of Shetler Veterinarians and others, and saw the clinics in action herself.
Now Dr. Morrow, who is president and medical director of the nonprofit pet charity Frankie’s Friends, teaches workshops on HQHVSN. On June 25, she presented the session “High-Quality High Volume Spay/Neuter in Practice: An Evidence-Based Approach” during AVMA Convention 2024 in Austin, Texas.
She walked session attendees through the protocols and stations of a HQHVSN operation, starting with intake and finishing with discharge. “It’s not going to look anything like the surgery and general practice you’re used to. There’s a lot of moving parts and a lot of people doing different things, but everybody knows what’s happening, and everybody does what they need to do to help those animals,” Dr. Morrow said.
Her presentation centered on feline patients within a HQHVSN setting. Cats stay in their carriers or traps for the day to minimize stress and exposure to other animals. The anesthetic protocol Dr. Morrow follows for feline patients is intramuscular sedation using a combination of butorphanol, dexmedetomidine, and ketamine (TDK IM).
As Dr. Morrow explained, the TDK IM protocol minimizes stress and facilitates handling.
“I was introduced to this protocol over 20 years ago from a veterinary anesthesiologist and have used it on more than 100,000 cats in multiple clinics and shelters,” she said. “It’s predictable and allows for smooth induction and recovery.”
Intubating feline patients has not been a problem, Dr. Morrow added. If intubation is not an option, she uses a mask with isoflurane. A size 3.0 tube is used for adult cats and size 2.5 tube for kittens. No lidocaine is administered, nor is a laryngoscope used.
High-quality, high-volume spay-neuter is an increasingly common method of overpopulation management by efficiently sterilizing large numbers of cats and dogs.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
Fluids are not routinely administered during surgery, Dr. Morrow said, except for pregnant spays and animals that appear ill. Fluids can contribute to hypothermia if not heated, she said, adding that blankets are used post-op to maintain the recovering patient’s body temperate.
Following surgery, staff members and volunteers monitor each patient’s recovery. They administer meloxicam and buprenorphine for pain relief. Vaccines, as well as flea and ear mite medications, are also given. Additionally, adult cats receive 1 cc of penicillin G while kittens receive 0.55 cc.
“We may be scared to do (HVHQSN) because we were taught a certain way, but there are different ways of doing things. I want you to realize that we have guidelines and a growing body of scientific literature, and we’re getting new data all the time,” Dr. Morrow said.
FDA confirms safety of Purina pet foods
Agency investigated adverse event reports, tested products, and conducted facility inspections after allegations appeared on social media
By Coco Lederhouse
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced July 31 that no public health concerns are associated with Nestlé Purina Pet Care pet food after completing a review of the products that generated a jump in adverse event reports last year.
“After thoroughly analyzing pet food adverse event reports, testing opened products from pet owners and sealed products from retail settings, and conducting a facility inspection, the FDA has determined the existing evidence does not identify a public health concern that could explain the symptoms detailed in these adverse event reports about Purina pet foods,” said the statement from the FDA.
Complaints that Purina pet food sickened pets started circulating on social media late last year, and pet owners on TikTok urged a boycott of the brand. Subsequently, the FDA received approximately 1,300 adverse event reports for several Purina pet foods between November 22, 2023, and April 15.
The most common clinical sign described in dogs and cats was gastrointestinal followed by renal, hepatic, or neurologic signs.
Testing and inspection efforts
The FDA applied selection criteria when investigating reported adverse events. These criteria included pet owner contact information, product information, descriptions of pet signs, and timeframe for when events occurred.
Ultimately, the agency identified 107 adverse event reports that contained adequate information for follow up and met the selection criteria.
From there, veterinarians from the FDA’s Office of Surveillance and Compliance and its Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN) interviewed owners about their pets’ medical and diet histories, tested pet food products that were still in the owners’ possession, reviewed veterinary medical records, and performed diagnostic testing at the time of illness.
After analyzing pet food adverse event reports, testing opened products from pet owners and sealed products from retail settings, and conducting a facility inspection, the Food and Drug Administration determined there was no direct or consistent connection between the wide range of reported adverse events and Purina pet food. (Courtesy of Purina)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
Initial Vet-LIRN testing was broad because no common factors were identified in the reports to help identify potential hazards, according to the agency.
Comparing the Vet-LIRN testing of open samples of food with the FDA’s regulatory testing of sealed packages was done to help identify when contamination or other problems might have occurred.
Vet-LIRN’s testing of both open and unopened products were negative for the mycotoxins aflatoxin, fumonisin, and deoxynivalenol; excess vitamin D; bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli; pesticides; and phosphine, a fumigant used to control insects on grain and other commodities. Findings for metals were not of clinical concern for either category of pet food products.
The bacterium Bacillus was detected in some open product samples, but whole-genome sequencing of Bacillus cereus strains identified through open-product testing were not related to one another, so a common source of Bacillus was ruled out.
The FDA also conducted an inspection at the Purina manufacturing facility in Clinton, Iowa. The most frequently mentioned products in adverse event reports were manufactured at this site.
The FDA issued a single citation for the facility not having conducted “a reanalysis of your food safety plan as appropriate,” per the Food Safety Modernization Act’s Final Rule for Preventive Controls in Animal Food.
Conclusions
Overall, the FDA says regarding the adverse event reports mentioning Purina pet food, “there was no direct or consistent connection between the wide range of adverse events submitted to the FDA, and evidence does not conclusively link the reported adverse events to Purina pet food,” according to the announcement.
When contacted for comment, Lorie Westhoff, senior director of corporate communications for Purina, said, “The FDA’s investigation confirmed that there are no quality or safety issues with Purina pet foods. The quality and safety of our products is our highest priority, and we respect that the FDA invested time and resources into investigating any potential concerns. We always encourage consumers to contact us directly if they have any questions about Purina products and to consult their veterinarian if they have questions about their pet’s health.”
‘Staggering disease’ discovered in Colorado mountain lion
Researchers have identified a rustrela virus (RusV) variant in a wild mountain lion in Colorado. This marks the first documented case of rustrela virus associated “staggering disease” in North America, according to a study published in the August issue of the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases.
Staggering disease is an often-fatal neurologic condition that has threatened domestic cats in Europe for several decades, primarily in Sweden and Austria. Only recently have scientists linked staggering disease to RusV, a relative of the rubella virus responsible for German measles in people.
Rustrela-virus associated staggering disease is seen in cats in Europe and is characterized by hind-limb ataxia and an exaggerated gait. The first documented case of this disease in the U.S. was seen last year in a mountain lion in Colorado.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
According to the journal report, in May 2023, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials in Douglas County euthanized an approximately 1-year-old, free-ranging female mountain that was unable to use its hind legs. Subsequent tissue analysis revealed the presence of RusV.
The lead author on the paper, Dr. Karen Fox, former CPW wildlife pathologist and current veterinary anatomic pathologist at Colorado State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories, said in a statement that the diagnosis of staggering disease was challenging, and final confirmation was only possible through collaboration with researchers at the Friedrich-Leoffler-Institut in Germany.
The most common clinical sign of staggering disease is hind-limb ataxia with generally increased muscle tone, which results in a staggering gait. A range of other neurologic signs may occur, including the inability to retract the claws, hyperesthesia, and occasionally tremors and seizures. Behavioral changes include enhanced vocalization, depression, increased affection, and, in rare occasions, aggression.
Staggering disease usually lasts a few days to a few weeks, but may also continue for more than a year, and generally results in deterioration requiring euthanasia for animal welfare reasons.
Scientists don’t yet know how widespread RusV is in either domestic cats or wildlife, said Dr. Fox. In Europe, RusV causes staggering disease in cats, but also has been found in a host of other species, including rodents, a donkey, and marsupials.
Surveillance for RusV in small rodents might identify a local reservoir host because rodents of the genus Apodemus have been identified as likely viral reservoir hosts, the article continued. Although Apodemus mice are not indigenous to North America, several genera of small rodents are found throughout Colorado and could serve as candidates for further screening. In addition, future studies should consider that the zoonotic potential of RusV has not been determined.
“Given the wide host range of the virus in Europe, RusV should be considered as a possible cause for neurologic diseases in all mammal species in North America,” the article’s authors concluded.
Federal court blocks FTC rule on noncompete agreements
A federal district court in Texas on August 20 blocked implementation of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) recent final rule banning most noncompete agreements.
Judge Ada Brown of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas said the FTC lacks legal authority to issue the rule, which it declared “arbitrary and capricious.” The decision means that the FTC cannot enforce the ban on noncompete agreements at this time, which was set to go in effect September 4.
The FTC issued its final rule in April 2024, banning noncompete agreements across all industries and professions, with limited exceptions. But several business groups filed suit challenging the FTC’s authority to issue the rule, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. That challenge resulted in the recent court decision in Texas.
“This decision is a significant win in the Chamber’s fight against government micromanagement of business decisions. A sweeping prohibition of noncompete agreements by the FTC was an unlawful extension of power that would have put American workers, businesses, and our economy at a competitive disadvantage,” said Chamber President and CEO Suzanne Clark in a statement.
The FTC says it is considering an appeal and that “the decision does not prevent the FTC from addressing noncompetes through case-by-case enforcement actions.”
Noncompete agreements can take many forms. Typically, they are part of a written employment agreement that restricts an employee who leaves a job from working in that field for a specific time period in a certain geographic area. Noncompete agreements often have been incorporated into employment contracts with associate veterinarians to prevent them from leaving a practice for a nearby location and taking clients with them.
APHIS receives funding to address rabies outbreaks
About 60,000 people are exposed to rabies virus in the U.S. each year, mainly from interactions with wildlife and unvaccinated domestic animals, according to 2022 data from the U.S. National Rabies Surveillance System published this July in JAVMA. The primary hosts for rabies in the U.S. are bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes, and the small Indian mongoose.
More recently, wildlife rabies outbreaks in Alabama, Maine, and Vermont have prompted the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to approve nearly $19 million in emergency funding. The money will be used to manage rabies in six emerging areas within existing rabies management zones that have an elevated risk for rabies spread: Watertown and Buffalo, New York; Youngstown, Ohio; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Birmingham, Alabama; and rural regions of eastern Vermont and western New Hampshire.
The emergency transfer will also allow USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to implement supplemental oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations, such as increasing bait density, expanding the area currently under management, and conducting additional ORV baiting actions, according to an August 15 press release.
The APHIS National Rabies Management Program (NRMP) controls and works to eliminate rabies virus in wildlife, such as raccoons, coyotes, and foxes. One way it has prevented the spread of raccoon rabies is by establishing an ORV zone from Maine to Ohio along the Canadian border and from Ohio to Alabama. The NRMP also collaborates with the Texas Department of State Health Services to maintain an ORV zone along the border of Texas and Mexico to prevent the reemergence of canine rabies into the U.S.
The blister pack contains the Onrab vaccine, which has been used in the U.S. and Canada to vaccinate raccoons, skunks, and foxes against rabies. Field crews distribute the oral rabies vaccine baits by plane or on the ground by hand. (Photo by Jordona Kirby/USDA APHIS Wildlife Services)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 10; 10.2460/javma.262.10.1315
“APHIS has been able to support emergency responses in recent years using appropriated funding, but growing costs and the need to provide an increasing number of rabies responses has depleted available resources. This emergency funding is being redirected from unspent balances from previous animal and plant health emergencies,” according to the release.
Weeklong celebration honors veterinary technicians
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) is honoring veterinary technicians during National Veterinary Technician Week (NVTW), which is October 13-19 this year. The week celebrates, recognizes, and promotes the valuable contributions that credentialed veterinary technicians (CrVTs), veterinary technologists, and veterinary technician specialists (VTSs) make to the veterinary profession and society. Integral players on the veterinary health care team, veterinary technicians work on the front lines, using their technical and scientific knowledge to treat and care for animals, allowing veterinarians to work with increased efficiency and effectiveness.
The theme this year, “Credentialed Veterinary Technicians Change Lives,” demonstrates how CrVTs, VTSs, and others can have a profound impact—known or unknown—on the lives of their patients, clients, colleagues, and community.
Jamie Rauscher, NAVTA president, has been a licensed veterinary technician (LVT) for the past 16 years and has over 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She has worked with countless team members, patients, pet owners, and members of the veterinary community in that time.
“I have worked as a kennel assistant, veterinary assistant, LVT, hospital manager, and practice owner. I have celebrated the highs and lows with my team and even my clients,” she said. “I remember the mentors and teachers who helped me when I was new to the profession, and I hope that I can fill those shoes for the new team members I work with today.
“Every day, we have a chance to positively impact and change the lives of those around us, even if we never know we did. How are you going to change a life?”
Hill’s Pet Nutrition, which sponsors the week, is providing funding for social media and public relations outreach. Hill’s field representatives will also deliver NVTW posters and other goodies to their clients across nearly 5,000 practices in the U.S. In celebration of NVTW, NAVTA will host several contests, giving members a chance to win gift cards, discounts on memberships, and more. Any company or organization hosting NVTW events that would like to be highlighted on the NAVTA website can email the details to info@navta.net.
Visit the NAVTA website, navta.net, for more information and to download NAVTA’s 2024 National Veterinary Technician Week Poster or access sample press releases, public service announcements, presentation and event ideas, and more.
Assemblies
American Association of Industry Veterinarians
The American Association of Industry Veterinarians (AAIV) held a networking reception and its annual business meeting on June 23 in Austin, Texas. The reception was held during AVMA Convention 2024. The association celebrated progress during the year and the future to come. Also highlighted was the involvement of the AAIV in the AVMA House of Delegates and AVMA councils and committees. Information about the AAIV is available via its website, aaivet.org, or social media. Members may use the website to access business- and career-related webinars, compensation surveys, a mentorship program for aspiring industry veterinarians, and other career resources. Also available on social media are updated postings of career opportunities. The AAIV officials are Drs. Bianca Zenor, West Lafayette, Indiana, president; Ann Korbel, St. Louis, Missouri, president-elect; Kari Mundschenk, Logandal, Nevada, vice president of internal communication; Jennifer Kasten, Cincinnati, vice president of external communication; and Tabatha Regehr, Tonganoxie, Kansas, vice president of finance.
American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) held its annual forum from June 5-8 in Minneapolis. The forum drew more than 2,500 attendees. On offer were more than 600 sessions and several hundred research abstracts and e-posters. All content is available virtually until October 31. The ACVIM officials are Dr. Joerg Steiner, College Station, Texas, chair, Board of Regents; Dr. Sarah Gillings, Tacoma, Washington, president; Dr. Henry W. Green, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, president-elect; Dr. Bill Tyrrell, Leesburg, Virginia, treasurer; Dr. Jane Sykes, Davis, California, immediate past chair; Dr. Joshua Stern, Raleigh, North Carolina, Specialty of Cardiology president; Dr. Sandra Taylor, West Lafayette, Indiana, Specialty of Large Animal Internal Medicine president; Dr. Sheila Carrera-Justiz, Gainesville, Florida, Specialty of Neurology president; Dr. Glenna Mauldin, Calgary, Alberta, Specialty of Nutrition president; Dr. Chad Johannes, Fort Collins, Colorado, Specialty of Oncology president; Dr. Roger Hostutler, Columbus, Ohio, Specialty of Small Animal Internal Medicine president; and Shannon Carter, Greenwood Village, Colorado, ACVIM chief executive officer.
American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine
The American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine (ACVPM) held its annual diplomate meeting virtually on July 13. The ACVPM officials are Drs. Kristen Voehl, Milton, Massachusetts, president; Matthew Doyle, College Park, Maryland, president-elect; Thomas Doker, Aiken, South Carolina, treasurer; Barbara L. Jones, Durham, New Hampshire, immediate past president; Sean Altekruse, Bethesda, Maryland, president of the specialty in epidemiology; Thomas Berg, Richland, Michigan, executive vice president; Erik Torring, Boerne, Texas, senior vice president; Suzanne R. Todd, Erie, Pennsylvania, AVMA Veterinary Specialty Organizations Committee representative; and councilors—Drs. Evelyn Crish, Hawley, Pennsylvania; Linda Pimentel, La Habra, California; and Scott Willens, Westminster, Maryland.
American Veterinary One Health Society
The American Veterinary One Health Society (AVOHS) presented awards and conducted business at its annual awards breakfast on June 24 in Austin, Texas. The late Dr. Theresa Bernardo was memorialized at the meeting. A biography of Dr. James H. Steele, “Animal Health, Human Health, One Health: The Life and Legacy of Dr. James H. Steele,” jav.ma/Steele, is sold online and at other booksellers. All proceeds go to the society to help sustain future programs. The society’s website, avohsociety.org, can be accessed to follow recent AVOHS activities, learn about the history of the organization, and make a donation to support programs. The AVOHS officials are Dr. Karen Becker, Richmond, Virginia, president; Dr. Jack Shere, Washington, D.C, immediate past president; Dr. John Poppe, San Antonio, executive director; and board members—Dr. Craig Carter, Lexington, Kentucky; Dr. Ron DeHaven, El Dorado Hills, California; Dr. Bernadette Dunham, Hume, Virginia; Keith Goldman, Secaucus, New Jersey; Laura Kahn, MD, Princeton, New Jersey; Dr. Bruce Kaplan, Sarasota, Florida; Dr. Lonnie King, Columbus, Ohio; and Dr. William Stokes, Apex, North Carolina.
Association of Avian Veterinarians
The Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) held its annual meeting from June 28-July 1 in Kansas City, Missouri. The AAV officials are Drs. Jennifer Graham, Huntsville, Alabama, president; Brynn McCleery, Tinton Falls, New Jersey, president-elect; Len Donato, Wayne, Pennsylvania, treasurer; and Stephanie Lamb, Phoenix, immediate past president and conference chair.
Pride Veterinary Medical Community
The Pride Veterinary Medical Community (PrideVMC) held its annual meeting on June 22 in Austin, Texas. More than 200 attendees participated in the annual meeting, hosted by the president and industry liaison of the PrideVMC, Dr. Omar Farías (he, him) and Dr. Ewan Wolff (they, them), and Pride Student Veterinary Medical Community (PrideSVMC) president, Sergio Acuna (he, him). The meeting reinforced the continued need to collaborate, support, and turn alarm into action as more anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rhetoric surfaces. The organization reviewed the 2024 strategic priorities and activities, shared its progress against key metrics, and acknowledged new board members and PrideVMC partners. The PrideVMC officials are Dr. Omar Farías, Kansas City, Missouri, president; Erin Spencer, Derry, New Hampshire, president-elect; Dr. Rachel Dufour, Ithaca, New York, treasurer; Dr. Abby McElroy, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, immediate past president; Dr. Ashlea Tenorio, Pflugerville, Texas, information officer; Dr. Mia Cary, Greensboro, North Carolina, chief executive officer; Dr. Mo Miller, Chicago, PrideSVMC adviser; Lauren Salsburg, Ithaca, New York, student liaison; Dr. Ewan Wolff, Portland, Oregon, industry liaison; and directors at large—Dr. Bonnie Price, Bisbee, Arizona; Dr. Dane Whitaker, Sacramento, California; Dr. Deborah Kochevar, Grafton, Massachusetts; Emmett Brizendine, Orient, Ohio; Dr. Jesse Navatta, Chicago; and Dr. Paige Carmichael, Athens, Georgia.
Visit avma.org/news/community to read the full reports, including awards and names of new diplomates.
In Memory
William R. Bentley
Dr. Bentley (Auburn ’56), 91, Toney, Alabama, died March 7, 2024. Following graduation, he worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Tennessee. Dr. Bentley subsequently served as a captain in the Air Force Veterinary Corps. In 1960, he moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where he established Bentley Animal Hospital, a mixed animal practice. Dr. Bentley served the area for nearly 50 years. He is survived by three daughters, nine grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. Memorials toward Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine may be made to the Auburn University Foundation, 317 S. College St., Auburn, AL 36849.
Stephen L. Berg
Dr. Berg (Minnesota ’70), 78, Ankeny, Iowa, died May 28, 2024. From 1977 until retirement in 2007, he worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. During that time, Dr. Berg served in a variety of roles, including poultry specialist, plant supervisor, inspector in charge, and circuit supervisor. Earlier in his career, Dr. Berg was in large animal practice. His wife, Linda; two sons and a daughter; four grandchildren; and two brothers survive him. Memorials may be made to Hopkins Grove United Methodist Church, 14605 NW Madrid Drive, Madrid, IA 50156.
John E. Cozad
Dr. Cozad (Texas A&M ’57), 90, College Station, Texas, died May 9, 2024. He was the former owner of Port Isabel Animal Clinic in Port Isabel, Texas. Earlier in his career, Dr. Cozad worked at Westbury Animal Hospital in Houston and owned Northern Oaks Bird & Animal Hospital in San Antonio. He was a past president of the Harris County VMA. Dr. Cozad was also a past president of the San Antonio chapter of the Delta Society, where he helped establish a pet grief hotline. His three daughters, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren survive him. Memorials may be made to the Texas A&M 12th Man Foundation, 756 Houston St., College Station, TX 77843, or Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, 660 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843.
Kenneth I. Cunningham
Dr. Cunningham, 72, La Plata, Maryland, died June 2, 2024. A 1976 veterinary graduate of the University of Dublin in Ireland, he owned Animal Clinic of La Plata. Dr. Cunningham was active with the Humane Society of Charles County and Charles County Animal Control. He also served as a mentor via the Boy Scouts of America, receiving the Good Scout Award in 2012. Dr. Cunningham is survived by his wife, Jane; two sons; and two sisters. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Charles County, 71 Industrial Park Drive, Waldorf, MD 20602, or Community Services for Autistic Adults and Children, 8615 E. Village Ave., Montgomery Village, MD 20886.
Michael L. Deason
Dr. Deason (Texas A&M ’68), 84, George West, Texas, died April 10, 2024. Following graduation, he joined Vidor Animal Clinic in Vidor, Texas, subsequently taking ownership of the practice. In 1977, Dr. Deason moved to George West, where he worked until 2000. He then practiced briefly in Austin and Boyd, Texas. Dr. Deason ended his career at Baldwin & Crosstown Animal Clinic in Corpus Christi, Texas. His wife, Margaret; two sons and a daughter; nine grandchildren; and a great-grandchild survive him. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, stjude.org, or Sunny Glen Children’s Home, P.O. Box 1373, San Benito, TX 78586.
Giselle Doucet
Dr. Doucet (Louisiana State ’24), 25, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, died May 15, 2024. She was a recent veterinary graduate of Louisiana State University College of Veterinary Medicine. While in veterinary school, Dr. Doucet received a AVMF/Merck Animal Health Scholarship and the Peri Tumay, DVM Memorial Fellowship. She was also honored with a 2024 American College of Veterinary Radiology’s Radiology Senior Veterinary Student Award. As an undergraduate student majoring in French language and biology at Louisiana State, Dr. Doucet was honored with a French language award and represented the university as the French language interpreter during the anniversary of the Normandy Invasion during World War II. She is survived by her family.
Mary L. Dulisch
Dr. Dulisch (Illinois ’76), 71, Moorpark, California, died June 16, 2024. A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, she practiced at Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group in Ventura, California, for more than 28 years prior to retirement in 2019. Dr. Dulisch previously worked a short period at West LA Veterinary Group in Los Angeles. Early in her career, she served as an assistant professor of surgery at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine and was a staff surgeon at the Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston.
Dr. Dulisch is survived by her husband, Dr. Stephen A. Bilbrey (Colorado State ’85), also a veterinarian, and three brothers. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Operation Smile, 3641 Faculty Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23453.
Albrecht Konrad Eugster
Dr. Eugster, 85, College Station, Texas, died July 21, 2024. A 1963 graduate of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna in Austria, he began his career practicing in Austria and Switzerland. Following his move in 1964 to the United States, Dr. Eugster served as a research scientist at what is now known as the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio. He later joined the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) as head of veterinary microbiology. Dr. Eugster went on to serve as executive director of TVMDL and as associate vice chancellor for agriculture, also directing Texas A&M University’s Feed and Fertilizer Control Service.
A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists, he was a past president of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) and World Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians and was a member of the Texas VMA,
Dr. Eugster is survived by his wife, Kathe; a son and a daughter; five grandchildren; and two brothers and a sister. Memorials, to establish the A. Konrad Eugster Memorial Awards Fund for TVMDL, and notated as such on the memo line of the check, may be made to the Texas A&M Foundation, 401 George Bush Drive, College Station, TX 77840.
Walter D. Felker
Dr. Felker (Iowa State ’53), 96, Ankeny, Iowa, died February 25, 2024. From 1987-99, he served as Iowa state veterinarian. During that time, Dr. Felker helped eradicate swine pseudorabies in the state. Earlier in his career, he briefly owned a practice in Carroll, Iowa, and worked at a practice in Manning, Iowa. Dr. Felker is survived by four daughters and their families. Memorials may be made to the Congregation of the Humility of Mary, Development Office, 820 W. Central Park Ave., Davenport, IA 52804, chmiowa.org, or Shrine of Saint Patrick, 622 West Exchange, Kahoka, MO 63445, saintpatrickshrine.com.
Martin R. Frey
Dr. Frey (Kansas State ’56), 92, Corpus Christi, Texas, died June 21, 2024. Following graduation, he served in the Air Force. Dr. Frey subsequently taught at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine. During that time, he traveled to Ethiopia along with other faculty members and served as an assistant professor of veterinary medicine at what is now known as Addis Ababa University. In 1965, Dr. Frey moved to Corpus Christi, where he co-established Alameda Veterinary Clinic and Padre Animal Hospital with his wife, Dr. Demarious L. Frey (Kansas State ’63). He was a member of the Coastal Bend VMA. Dr. Frey is survived by his wife, two sons, four grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. Memorials may be made to the Corpus Christi Symphony, 555 N. Carancahua St. #410, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.
Robert E. “Bud” Hertzog
Dr. Hertzog (Missouri ’56), 92, Lee’s Summit, Missouri, died July 15, 2024. From 2005-06, he served as chair of what is now the AVMA Board of Directors. Dr. Hertzog began his career as an associate veterinarian at Lee’s Summit Animal Hospital. He later took ownership of the hospital, practicing there for 68 years. Dr. Hertzog also served as veterinarian for the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium for 20 years and the American Royal Livestock Show in Kansas City for 51 years.
He represented District VII on the AVMA Board from 2000-06 and served on several AVMA councils and committees, including the Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents, Council on Research, Animal Agriculture Liaison Committee, Committee on Environmental Issues, Clinical Practitioners Advisory Committee, and Legislative Advisory Committee. Dr. Hertzog was a past chair of the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board and American Veterinary Medical Foundation and a past president of the Missouri and Kansas City VMAs. He was a charter member and served on the board of directors of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians.
During his career, Dr. Hertzog was bestowed with several honors, including being named Missouri VMA (MVMA) Veterinarian of the Year in 1973, the Mizzou Alumni Association’s Alumni Award in 1983, and the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Alumni Association’s Alumnus of the Year Award in 2011. The MVMA’s Robert E. Hertzog Veterinary Leadership Award was established in his honor.
Dr. Hertzog is survived by four sons, a daughter, 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, a brother, and a sister. One son, Dr. David C. Hertzog (Missouri ’92), is also a veterinarian. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Missions Fund, 2 NE Douglas St., Lee’s Summit, MO 64063; Lee’s Summit Historical Society, 220 SW Main St., Lee’s Summit, MO 64063; or Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation, 301 NE Tudor Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086.
Stephen C. Jaffe
Dr. Jaffe (Saskatchewan ’73), 82, Wilmington, North Carolina, died June 26, 2024. He practiced nearly 40 years at Needham Animal Hospital in North Carolina at Carolina Beach and Wilmington. Dr. Jaffe previously served as the curator and veterinarian at what was known as the Philadelphia Zoological Garden. He was a past treasurer of the former North Carolina Academy of Small Animal Medicine and a member of the North Carolina VMA.
Dr. Jaffe is survived by his wife, Ingrid; a son; and a sister. Memorials may be made to Canines for Service, 221-1 Old Dairy Road, Wilmington, NC 28405, or The Stables at Poplar Grove, 10200 Highway 17N, Wilmington, NC 28411.
Arthur F. Lippoldt
Dr. Lippoldt (Illinois ’64), 85, Hamel, Illinois, died December 13, 2023. He co-owned Hawthorne Animal Hospital in Glen Carbon, Illinois, for 38 years. Dr. Lippoldt was a member of the Illinois State VMA and was a past state chair and a past president of the local chapter of Ducks Unlimited. His wife, Linda; two sons and two daughters; 10 grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and a sister survive him. Memorials may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st St., Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131.
Kari E. Moore
Dr. Moore (Texas A&M ’94), 55, Shingle Springs, California, died April 30, 2024. A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, she was a regional medical director with VCA Animal Hospitals, overseeing several practices in California, Colorado, and Hawaii. Following graduation, Dr. Moore worked in Dallas. From 2000-01, she served as a staff veterinarian at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston. Dr. Moore then joined VCA Veterinary Referral Associates in Gaithersburg, Maryland, where she was the intern and resident director. In 2005, she moved to California, serving as both a regional medical director with VCA Animal Hospitals and as medical director and intern director of VCA Sacramento Veterinary Referral Center. In 2016, Dr. Moore began working solely as a regional medical director with VCA Animal Hospitals. She is survived by her husband, Steve; her parents; and a sister. Memorials may be made to North Shore Animal League America, 16 Lewyt St., Port Washington, NY 11050.
Stephanie Lennon Morris
Morris (Colorado State ’24), 33, Fort Collins, Colorado, died February 8, 2024. She was a fourth-year student at Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. During her first year of veterinary college, Morris received the Thomas L. Spurgeon Book Award, recognizing her knowledge and enthusiasm for learning anatomy and for fostering teamwork and community by assisting her classmates. She was active with several volunteer and nonprofit organizations. Morris is survived by her parents and two siblings. Memorials may be made to Central Texas Dachshund Rescue, 7544 FM 1960 Road East #71, Humble, TX 77346, or Austin Pets Alive! 1156 W. Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78703.
Francis P. Moynagh
Dr. Moynagh (Kansas State ’64), 85, Krum, Texas, died February 27, 2024. He owned Westgate Veterinary Hospital, a mixed animal practice in Denton, Texas, prior to retirement in 2007. Early in his career, Dr. Moynagh served in the Army Veterinary Corps. He attained the rank of captain. Dr. Moynagh is survived by his wife, Jane; a daughter and a son; and three grandchildren. His son, Dr. Mark Moynagh (Texas A&M ’95), is also a veterinarian. Memorials, toward Fund #V93869, may be made to Kansas State University Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Suite 200, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Lawrence W. Samples Jr.
Dr. Samples (Pennsylvania ’71), 81, Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, died July 9, 2024. He practiced large animal medicine in Hummelstown. Dr. Samples also took care of exotic animals at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax, Pennsylvania. He was a member of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, Pennsylvania Holstein Association, and Livestock Exporters Association of the USA. Dr. Samples is survived by his wife, Anita; two daughters and a son; four grandchildren, and a brother. Memorials may be made to Eastern PA Youth Soccer Association’s Grow the Game Fund, 4070 Butler Pike, Suite 100, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, or to Doctors Without Borders, P.O. Box 5030, Hagerstown, Maryland 21741, jav.ma/DWB.
Caroline B. Schaffer
Dr. Schaffer (Ohio State ’71), 78, Tuskegee, Alabama, died December 7, 2023. She was an assistant professor of small animal medicine and surgery and director of human-animal relationships at Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. Early in her career, Dr. Schaffer served 12 years as a small animal clinician in Columbus, Ohio, and spent two years as a research associate at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
A past president of the former American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians, she was a member of the Alabama and Ohio VMAs. Dr. Schaffer is survived by her husband, Dr. David D. Schaffer (Tuskegee ’71), also a veterinarian, and two siblings. Memorials may be made to the Dr. Caroline Schaffer Memorial Award, Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, Office of the Dean, 201 Patterson Hall, Tuskegee, AL 36088, or Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090.
Richard P. Schmidtke
Dr. Schmidtke (Missouri ’65), 84, Mexico, Missouri, died May 8, 2024. Following graduation, he served in the Army. Dr. Schmidtke subsequently practiced in Clayton, Missouri. In 1973, he joined Mexico Animal Hospital, where he served as a partner until retirement in 2007. Dr. Schmidtke was a past president of the Missouri VMA and was a member of the Mexico Jaycees and Mexico Kiwanis Club. His wife, Ans; two sons and a daughter; five grandchildren; and a brother survive him. Memorials may be made to the Audrain County Humane Society, P.O. Box 603, Mexico MO 65265, or Mexico Kiwanis Club, P.O. Box 53, Mexico, MO 65265, jav.ma/AudrainHS.
Carolyn G. Self
Dr. Self (Tuskegee ’71), 80, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, died July 8, 2024. Following graduation, she joined Collingswood Veterinary Hospital in Haddon Township, New Jersey, where she practiced small animal medicine. Dr. Self also participated in rabies vaccine clinics and pet-assisted therapy visits to nursing homes and hospitals.
She served on the New Jersey State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners and was a member of the New Jersey VMA. Dr. Self also served on the executive council of the Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Alumni Association for several years. She retired in 2020. Dr. Self’s husband, Howrhu; two children; two grandchildren; and three siblings survive her. Memorials may be made to the New Jersey VMA, 750 Route 202, Suite 200, Bridgewater, NJ 08807, njvma.org/donations. Veterinarians may also donate textbooks and other veterinary-related materials to individuals and organizations soliciting such items via jav.ma/Donations.
Michael B. Sigman
Dr. Sigman (Georgia ’76), 77, Mansfield, Georgia, died May 14, 2024. He owned a mixed animal practice in Covington, Georgia. Dr. Sigman served as a veterinary delegate with the Fédération Equestre Internationale for three-day eventing. He volunteered with the National FFA Organization and 4-H Club. Dr. Sigman is survived by his wife, Catharine; a son and a daughter; five grandchildren; and a sister. Memorials may be made to Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes, 5671 Boys Ranch Road, Hahira, GA 31632, jav.ma/GSYH, or Georgia Equine Rescue League, 61 McElhannon Road SE, Bethlehem, GA 30620.
George N. Thomas
Dr. Thomas (Texas A&M ’50), 102, Whittier, California, died May 26, 2024. During his career, he owned Macy & Thomas Veterinary Hospital in Whittier and County Line Animal Hospital in La Habra, California. Dr. Thomas was active with Kiwanis International and the Masonic Lodge. He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. Dr. Thomas is survived by a daughter, a son, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.
William R. Wilson Jr.
Dr. Wilson (Georgia ’62), 87, Robbins, North Carolina, died January 16, 2024. Following graduation, he served in the Air Force Veterinary Corps. Dr. Wilson subsequently established a mixed animal practice in Robbins. He also conducted research at North Carolina State University. Dr. Wilson is survived by his family.
Randy D. Winn
Dr. Winn (Oklahoma State ’83), 67, Henderson, Nevada, died August 8, 2024. He served as medical director of VCA Black Mountain Animal Hospital in Henderson for more than 30 years. Dr. Winn also served as the veterinarian for the city of Henderson’s animal shelter for 10 years and took care of the Henderson Police K-9 Unit. His wife, Cheryl, survives him. Memorials, notated in his name, may be sent to the City of Henderson Animal Care and Control, 300 E. Galleria Drive, Henderson, NV 89011.
Nelson F. Woolman Jr.
Dr. Woolman (Michigan State ’67), 81, Alpena, Michigan, died May 11, 2024. He founded Alpena Veterinary Hospital, where he practiced mixed animal medicine until retirement in 2007. Dr. Woolman also worked with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, assisting with the rehabilitation of wild animals. In retirement, he volunteered with local animal shelters and held spay-neuter clinics in Alpena County and via the Elk Country Animal Shelter in Atlanta, Michigan. Dr. Woolman also provided in-home vaccine and euthanasia services.
He is survived by his wife, Bronwyn; five sons and five daughters; 14 grandchildren; and two brothers and two sisters. Memorials may be made to Second Chance Animal Shelter, 1110 Devere Drive, Alpena, MI 49707; Elk Country Animal Shelter, 11484 Youngs Road, Atlanta, MI 48709; or Huron Humane Society, 3510 Woodward, Alpena, MI 49707.
James P. Wright
Dr. Wright (Kansas State ’70), 79, Lake George, Colorado, died January 6, 2024. He practiced mixed animal medicine in Lake George. Dr. Wright also trained and showed horses and served as a horse judge. He was active with the Missouri Trail Rider Association and was a member of the Pikes Peak Range Riders. Dr. Wright is survived by his family. Memorials may be made to the Pikes Peak Range Riders Foundation, P.O. Box 758, Colorado Springs, CO 80901.
