IN SHORT
Scholarship, grant opportunities available through AVMF
The application period is open for the American Veterinary Medical Foundation’s (AVMF) veterinary student scholarship program and grant program for veterinary researchers.
Scholarships are awarded based on varying criteria that include academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. The application period is September 1-30 for the following scholarships:
AVMA/AVMF Scholarship for Veterans
Mildred Sylvester Scholarship
Embrace Pet Insurance Scholarship
The Hoveida Family Foundation Scholarship in Research
Rex Anderson VLC Travel Award Endowment Fund
Durvet Animal Health Future Food Animal Veterinarian Scholarship
Auxiliary to the AVMA Legacy Endowed Scholarship Program
Zoetis Foundation/AVMF Veterinary Technician Student Scholarship:
For more information, visit jav.ma/AVMFscholarships or email scholarships@avma.org.
The grant program is a partnership between the AVMF and the Veterinary Pharmacology Research Foundation (VPRF) to fund research grants for veterinary pharmacology and veterinary pharmacokinetics.
This funding supports research projects designed to evaluate new and existing drugs for treatment of diseases and conditions in veterinary species. The application deadline is September 15 and recipients will be notified on January 15, 2025.
For more information, visit jav.ma/AVMFResearchGrants or call (800) 248-2862, ext 6690.
World Rabies Day encourages breaking boundaries
The theme of the 18th annual World Rabies Day, “Breaking Rabies Boundaries,” highlights the need for breaking through boundaries that prevent the elimination of human deaths from canine rabies. Unvaccinated dogs are the main source of human rabies deaths, contributing up to 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans globally.
“Breaking Rabies Boundaries” encapsulates a dual meaning, acknowledging not only the barriers within people’s control but also the transboundary nature of rabies itself, according to World Rabies Day coordinator Global Alliance for Rabies Control. These barriers can range from disease siloes to lack of innovation to gaps in cooperation and access to essential resources.
World Rabies Day, September 28, is observed by the United Nations and endorsed by the World Health Organization, World Organisation for Animal Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the AVMA, among others.
APHIS seeks equine professionals for inspector roles
One of the changes to Horse Protection Act (HPA) regulations earlier this year, in an effort to end horse soring, meant the elimination of industry self-regulation and the role of lay person inspectors at horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions.
Going forward, only U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) inspectors and independent non-APHIS–employed horse protection inspectors (HPIs) who are screened, trained, and authorized by APHIS will have inspection authority, beginning with the 2025 show season.
These third-party inspectors must be veterinarians, veterinary technicians, or state or local animal welfare officers; all must have equine knowledge and experience.
Individuals interested in applying to become an HPI can complete an application on the APHIS website by visiting jav.ma/HPIapplication.
While HPIs may not conduct inspections until the new rule goes into effect February 1, 2025, APHIS began the HPI application process on June 7, so that training and authorization of HPIs can occur beforehand.
HPI applicants must abide by a Code of Conduct that includes complying with USDA-related laws, regulations, and policies. Applicants must agree to document and report all noncompliances.
Revised CPR guidelines in dogs, cats emphasize speed, standard techniques
RECOVER Initiative updates document with a streamlined CPR algorithm and new drug dosing charts
By Malinda Larkin
Human medical professionals are required to certify in CPR, but there is no such requirement in veterinary medicine. The Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Initiative aims to set that standard and empower veterinary professionals to stand tall knowing they gave their patients the best chance possible.
On June 26, the RECOVER Initiative unveiled the first major revisions to its global veterinary CPR guidelines since 2012, setting new life-saving standards based on scientific advancements and extensive community feedback.
Notable changes
The primary goal of the RECOVER 2024 CPR Guidelines is to improve CPR outcomes in veterinary patients, mirroring the advancements seen in human medical care through the broad acceptance of evidence-based CPR guidelines. These guidelines, training courses, and an official certification process underscore the importance of preparedness in emergency situations, particularly in general practice settings where reversible causes of cardiopulmonary arrest, such as anesthesia-related issues, present opportunities to save lives.
The revised guidelines are available in an open-access issue of Wiley’s Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care and at the RECOVER Initiative website, recoverinitiative.org.
Key updates include the following:
Chest compression techniques: Enhanced methods for cats and small dogs to optimize survival during cardiac arrest.
Compression depths and techniques: Adjustments tailored to an animal’s size and chest shape, improving CPR effectiveness.
Breathing support methods: Revised for non-intubated patients, focusing on rescuer safety.
Medication dosages and procedures: Updated for more precise and effective treatment during CPR.
In addition, a new streamlined CPR algorithm, updated drug dosing charts, and an ECG diagnosis algorithm have been included to help standardize CPR practices globally.
Dr. Daniel Fletcher, co-chair of the Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Initiative, which recently released updated guidelines for CPR in dogs and cats, noted that one approach doesn’t work equally well in all breeds and should be tailored to the patient. The types of chest conformations and approaches for each are included in the revised guidelines. (Photos courtesy of the RECOVER Initiative)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 9; 10.2460/javma.262.9.1165
Dr. Daniel Fletcher, associate professor in the emergency and critical care section at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and co-chair of RECOVER, gave a presentation on the updated guidelines at the 2024 Veterinary Meeting & Expo, held January 13-17 in Orlando, Florida.
He said the CPR initial assessment algorithm, available for download on the resources page of the RECOVER Initiative website, should be used to help determine if and when to perform CPR, which shouldn’t take more than 10-15 seconds.
“The unresponsive patient is the scariest to me, and I need to quickly figure out if they’re alive,” Dr. Fletcher added.
The first step is to stimulate by shaking and shouting, and then see if they are breathing. If the animal is not breathing, the responder should find other people to help, if possible.
“There’s nothing about checking a pulse,” Dr. Fletcher said. “We still know it’s not the most sensitive measure and it’s a poor way to diagnose CPA.”
He said for basic life support, the most important parts are quality chest compressions and making sure the patients are ventilated.
One person should start chest compressions, and another should evaluate the airway to make sure it’s not obstructed and get them intubated to start ventilating. If you’re alone, Dr. Fletcher said to first check to see if the airway is clear. If it is, start chest compressions, but if not, clear it and then start single-rescuer CPR.
For the chest compressions, the guidelines recommend being positioned behind the patient’s spine while on their side in most cases. Responders should have one hand on top of the other with fingers interlaced, making sure not to spread their hands apart or have the heels of the hands separated for good compression posture. This allows the force of the compression to be focused on the location of the heel of the hand touching the chest. Shoulders should be directly above the hands, elbows should be locked, and the person should bend at the waist and engage core muscles.
That said, Dr. Fletcher noted that one approach doesn’t work equally well in all breeds and should be tailored to the patient. Regarding cats and small dogs, Dr. Fletcher said, “In the new guidelines, we’re no longer recommending a two-hand approach in this group because of the high likelihood of injuring the chest, but we’re recommending three other approaches: the previous one-hand technique, circumferential compressions, or a one-armed technique.” Diagrams and more detailed explanations of these new approaches are in the updated guidelines.
The other important component of basic life support in animals—ventilation—has also been updated in the new guidelines. Whenever feasible, dogs and cats should be intubated with a cuffed endotracheal tube as soon as possible, while compressions are ongoing.
Breaths should be delivered at a rate of 10 breaths per minute and a 1-second inspiratory time during CPR, targeting a tidal volume of approximately 10 mL per kg. Chest compressions should be delivered in uninterrupted cycles of 2 minutes, after which a new responder should rotate in to reduce fatigue and ensure good quality chest compressions are maintained, Dr. Fletcher said.
If intubation is not possible, using a manual resuscitator bag and tight-fitting face mask is recommended in the new guidelines rather than the mouth-to-snout technique because of concerns around zoonotic disease transmission.
The guidelines say it is best to use masks that don’t have vents—or to occlude the vents when delivering the breaths—and to only use masks with rubber gaskets to make a good seal. If this type of equipment is not available, and there is any possibility of zoonotic disease in the patient, the guidelines recommend compression-only CPR.
Lastly, the guidelines recommend that CPR drugs be administered via an intravenous catheter rather than an intraosseous catheter if possible.
“If attempts at IV access are not successful within 2 minutes, we suggest that rescuers pursue IO catheter placement and to concurrently attempt to secure IV and IO access if adequate personnel are available,” the document states.
Adoption and education
Experts worldwide and across disciplines collaborated on developing the treatment recommendations. The 2024 RECOVER CPR guidelines were generated used a modified version of the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) system for guidelines creation in health care. Most human clinical guideline organizations use this approach, including the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation, which produces human CPR guidelines.
“Thanks to a rigorous review of over 1,370 studies by 102 volunteer evidence evaluators, these updates embody our commitment to the highest standards of evidence-based veterinary practice,” said Dr. Jamie Burkitt, the other co-chair of RECOVER, in the press release.
The RECOVER Initiative, founded by the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care and the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, calls on veterinary professionals and pet owners alike to adopt the practices outlined in the updated document to enhance acute care outcomes for pets and ensure the best possible results.
Enhanced training courses approved by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards’ Registry of Approved Continuing Education are set to equip 400 RECOVER certified instructors worldwide to certify veterinary professionals in performing these life-saving techniques.
Further guidelines on newborn resuscitation, prevention and preparedness, and first aid are expected in the near future.
ISFM, AAFP update guidelines on long-term NSAID use in cats
Managing chronic pain in cats should involve both pharmacological interventions and environmental modifications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can benefit cats with chronic pain as an element of this multimodal approach, but there are a number of considerations.
A panel of veterinary experts in feline pain relief have developed revised guidelines for using NSAIDs in cats to ensure the best outcomes for cats, owners, and veterinary professionals.
Specifically, the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) created the “2024 ISFM/AAFP Consensus Guidelines on the Long-Term Use of NSAIDs in Cats” to provide veterinary practitioners with decision-making tools for prescribing NSAIDs in situations of chronic pain to minimize adverse effects and optimize pain management for their feline patients.
“Chronic pain assessment using validated tools is paramount for monitoring the efficacy of long-term NSAIDs for pain management. Additionally, intertwining environmental modifications and paying attention to engaging emotions, can result in positive outcomes for cats in chronic pain,” the guidelines’ authors wrote.
Published in the April issue of the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, the consensus guidelines are a valuable resource for veterinarians on the most widely used analgesic in veterinary medicine. As the guidelines state, “The unique feline metabolism must be considered when prescribing any medication for this species. Cats have deficient glucuronidation capabilities and are, therefore, at greater risk of toxicity when being administered drugs relying on this pathway for clearance (hence why paracetamol [acetaminophen] is contraindicated in this species).”
The guidelines provide information on the following areas:
Mechanism of action of NSAIDs
Indications for their long-term use in cats, including dental disease and neoplasia
Assessing patient suitability and screening prior to prescription of NSAIDs
Considerations for NSAID use in the presence of comorbidities
Monitoring treatment efficacy
Avoidance and management of adverse effects
Considerations for anesthesia and surgery in cats receiving long-term NSAID therapy
Cat-friendly techniques to reduce chronic pain in the clinic and at home
One point of emphasis in the guidelines is that NSAIDS are prescribed after appropriate screening and with the caregiver embraced as part of the team, being both informed and supported by veterinary professionals.
That’s why, along with guidelines for veterinarians, the ISFM has created guides for cat caregivers to provide information about important topics such as treating pain with NSAIDs, home modifications to help cats with arthritis, and increasing water intake for cats, which is helpful for many cats, including those taking NSAIDs or those with chronic kidney disease.
The AAFP also has a client brochure for treating chronic pain with NSAIDs in cats.
Much has been learned since the first consensus guidelines were published in 2010, according to Dr. Sam Taylor, head of veterinary specialists for ISFM and contributing author.
“Since then, multiple studies have examined the use of NSAIDs in cats, particularly those with comorbidities. These guidelines have examined this evidence and aim to provide practitioners with practical information on using NSAIDs for chronic pain management, along with tips and advice on working with caregivers to provide the best care for their cat,” Dr. Taylor said in a press release.
Previously, the ISFM published its “2022 ISFM Consensus Guidelines on the Management of Acute Pain in Cats” on the use of NSAIDs for acute pain conditions in cats.
AAVSB, VMG surveys find lack of support for midlevel practitioner
Both groups support better utilization of credentialed veterinary technicians as part of the answer to workforce issues
A 2023 American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) survey found most North American veterinarians and veterinary technicians supported better utilization of credentialed veterinary technicians (CrVTs) as a means to help alleviate veterinary workforce shortages, rather than creating a new midlevel practitioner (MLP).
The AAVSB, whose membership includes licensing bodies in more than 60 jurisdictions, including all of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the 10 Canadian provinces, fielded the survey earlier this year to assess current roles and responsibilities of veterinary technicians and gauge level of interest within the North American veterinary community for an MLP, whose duties would overlap the duties of the veterinarian and veterinary technician.
Nearly 14,000 veterinarians and veterinary technicians responded to the survey, a majority (61%) of them being veterinary technicians. Most respondents (79%) work in companion animal exclusive practices, and half work in the suburbs, followed by urban (32%) and rural (18%) areas.
“Our commitment remains to public protection and ensuring accessible, quality veterinary care. The survey data demonstrates that veterinary technicians can and should be utilized more extensively to address gaps in veterinary care, before a midlevel veterinary practitioner can be considered,” said Dr. Kim Gemeinhardt, AAVSB president, in a June 19 press release. As a result, the AAVSB has indicated that it will not encourage legislative and regulatory attempts to create a MLP.
Veterinary Management Groups (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 an MLP.
Their surveyed members were overwhelmingly against the idea of the position. Their main concerns were as follows:
Nonveterinarians performing surgeries, because of the risks and potential complications.
A decline in care quality, resulting in improper diagnosis or malpractice, as well as devaluing the veterinary degree.
Two veterinary organizations say they have not found overwhelming support for the creation of a midlevel practitioner position among their members right now and, instead, will focus on better utilization and an expanded role for veterinary technicians.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 9; 10.2460/javma.262.9.1165
The potential to dilute revenue streams, making it harder to pay off student loans for veterinarians, and possibly lead to a saturated market with an oversupply of MLPs.
The perception that this initiative is driven by interests to lower labor costs, rather than actual need for the position.
Suggested alternatives from respondents were to improve and properly leverage CrVTs, push for universal licensure of veterinary technicians before creating a new role, focus on expanding and enhancing veterinary technician specialist programs for more specialized technician roles, and increase pay and support for current veterinary technicians.
Practice efficiency takes on greater importance in current economy
Technology, benchmarking, and customer service important to veterinary clinics’ future success
By Malinda Larkin
Terrence O’Neil, partner at the accounting firm Katz, Sapper & Miller (KSM), has seen some economic trends that have caught his attention.
Two-thirds of the American public are living paycheck to paycheck, according to a recent survey. Among those respondents, 69% cited inflation as a financial stressor and 59% cited lack of savings.
In 2023, the average credit card interest rate hit a historic high of 22.8%, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and individual credit card holders had an average debt of $6,501 each, according to Experian.
At the same time, the veterinary industry is starting to see growth slow. One indicator, the change in the number of invoices, has started to plateau, according to data from the Veterinary Management Groups’ benchmarking database, VSG DATALINK, increasing 1.5% annually in 2022 and 2023. Meanwhile, veterinary practices have increased their prices in the past decade at a rate greater than inflation. In 2014, the average invoice was $148, compared with $229 in 2023.
O’Neil questioned how much longer that can occur.
“As business owners, you’ve had to pay your staff more and had to raise your fees to cover for that, right? I get that, but where are we on that rollercoaster on price elasticity? I think we’re in a scary spot right now, personally,” he said. “The disposable income people have to spend on veterinary care is just not there. So what do we do? We get more efficient.”
O’Neil presented the sessions “Increasing Efficiencies to Create More Profit” and “Trends at the Most-Profitable Veterinary Hospitals” on June 22 at AVMA Convention 2024 in Austin, Texas. He is a co-leader of KSM’s Veterinary Services Group.
Technology
One obvious way to boost efficiency is through greater use of technology. Many options are low-hanging fruit, such as text messaging for appointment reminders or monthly payment plans, which can help clients budget for their animals’ needs. Most practice information management systems (PIMS) now have these features built in. Artificial intelligence can help reduce doctors’ time by transcribing notes.
One other piece of advice: stay away from the “same as last year” mentality. O’Neil recommended having a conversation with staff and putting together a committee that includes younger staff members to help brainstorm ways to be more efficient. He did this at his own firm and ended up implementing several of the ideas that it generated.
“The hospitals that embrace technology to enhance service will be the leaders,” he said.
Benchmarking
Another focus for practices is monitoring veterinary market trends to benchmark against practice data to help optimize operations. Invoice counts are the first thing he looks at to get a feel for the health of a veterinary hospital.
Specifically, O’Neil says the best efficiency measure is support staff minutes per invoice. According to VetWatch, the average was 98 minutes in the second quarter of 2019 versus 117 minutes in the second quarter of 2023.
Spending more time with clients isn’t necessarily bad, he said, “But if I’m spending 30 minutes with a client and my partner is spending 60 minutes, you have to charge more for that.”
When looking at the leverage ratio, which involves how many people are helping the veterinarian, the average was 3.7 in 2014 and 4.04 in 2023, indicating little change in this area.
For staff productivity, he says practices should be using an automated payroll clock and track total hours worked. Then they can use this information to inform staffing decisions. He also reviewed during his presentation a veterinarian productivity measure formula that he developed. It takes into account the number of days worked, number of hours seeing patients, number of patients seen per hour, revenue generated per day, and average invoice.
“Sit down with the doctors and go over the DVM productivity measure to help them know how many patients they need to see per hour to achieve how much they want to make or how many hours to work,” O’Neil said. “To educate doctors a little bit, I tell them, ‘If you’re only charging 60% of your time, you’re never going to get to where you want to be unless you get more efficient.’”
Customer service
The real key to efficiency, O’Neil says: keeping people happy. Trends don’t matter at clinics that don’t have good customer service because people won’t come back. That spells trouble when a 2% increase in customer retention is the same in profits as cutting costs by 10%, he said.
Customer-centric companies are all about their customers and make every decision and strategic move with customers in mind. According to research by Deloitte, customer-centric companies are 60% more profitable than those not focused on the customer.
“If you have a grump at the front desk, what do you do when somebody comes into your hospital? Not a very good experience, is it?” O’Neil said.
“Customer service and employee experiences is what’s going to drive your efficiencies,” said he added. “People are willing to pay a little bit more if they have a really good, positive experience.”
Difference, not disability: Supporting neurodivergent veterinary team members
By Coco Lederhouse
If veterinary teams can effectively recruit and retain neurodivergent employees and highlight their strengths, then the whole workplace will benefit, said Dr. Debra J. Nickelson, founder of Trillium C, a consulting firm for veterinarians.
Dr. Nickelson along with Dr. Erika G. Hendel, founder of Empathy at Large consulting and member of the Not One More Vet board of directors, presented the session “Recruitment and Retention: Neurodiverse Individuals Are Valuable Members of the Veterinary Team” on Saturday at AVMA Convention 2024 in Austin, Texas.
Neurodiversity, or differences in brain function and cognition, is a spectrum encompassing conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and autism. Many individuals who are neurodivergent have unique abilities; research shows that some conditions, including autism and dyslexia, can bestow special skills in pattern recognition, memory, or mathematics. Awareness of such differences and the provision of reasonable accommodations are integral to helping neurodiverse professionals excel to their full potential.
“Ableism exists in our industry and can make it harder for neurodiverse individuals to thrive in our work,” Dr. Hendel said. The term refers to a system of discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities that favors nondisabled people. The idea that someone must be “fixed” is damaging to the neurodiverse community, Dr. Hendel said.
Recruiting neurodivergent employees takes intentionality.
“How are you approaching equitable recruitment in general?” asked Dr. Nickelson.
In job descriptions, including a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statement; using inclusive language; and focusing on specific skills can all set the tone for how current and future team members view a veterinary practice.
Job applications can be challenging to complete for some neurodivergent individuals, so using clear instructions, an accessible font, adequate spacing between large text blocks, and a space for the applicant to share their personal pronouns is helpful, Dr. Nickelson said. Including clear timelines and steps for the application process can make applicants more comfortable.
When interviewing job applicants, managers are encouraged to offer a phone or video call option, share complex questions in advance, and ask open-ended behavioral questions instead of personal questions.
“Really consider how you can best communicate,” Dr. Nickelson said.
Using inclusive language, sharing personal pronouns, and mentioning a list of accommodations provided for all employees demonstrates an equitable workplace.
“Navigating onboarding while neurodiverse can be anxiety-inducing,” Dr. Hendel said. “Ask yourself, ‘Is the process clear? Can employees find information easily? Do they know who to go to if they have questions?’”
Dr. Hendel explained that sometimes veterinary professionals who are neurodivergent find it uncomfortable to disclose differences at work because of the stigmas that surround them. However, a discussion with the person is important to come up with reasonable adjustments that will work for them rather than generic adjustments based on a condition.
Expecting an employee to disclose a disability and request adjustments within a certain timeframe puts the burden on the individual.
“It’s not a very user-friendly collaboration,” Dr. Nickelson explained.
A supportive manager works with the employee to determine any helpful accommodations and regularly provides guidance. Feedback helps foster an ongoing conversation.
Examples of accommodations include adjustments to the workspace, flexible hours, modified job tasks, paid or unpaid leave, and intermittent family and medical leave.
Keeping an open dialogue is key to retaining neurodivergent employees.
A helpful approach to supporting neurodivergent veterinary team members is expressing curiosity, compassion, and understanding, says Dr. Erika G. Hendel, founder of Empathy at Large. Drs. Hendel and Debra J. Nickelson presented the session, “Recruitment and Retention: Neurodiverse Individuals Are Valuable Members of the Veterinary Team” at AVMA Convention 2024 in Austin, Texas.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 9; 10.2460/javma.262.9.1165
“Check in with your team about the sensory environment because that is something that takes energy away from people,” Dr. Hendel said. Sources of excess sensory stimulation may include clutter, bright lights, loud noises, or strong scents.
Proactively providing safe spaces and opportunities to break from overstimulation is an effective way to support neurodivergent veterinary team members. Celebrating workplace culture, providing adequate time for tasks, and practicing active listening help create an encouraging environment.
“Neurodivergent individuals are incredibly loyal to spaces where they feel supported because often, they have not been supported in their veterinary or educational career before,” Dr. Hendel said.
Facility dogs provide mental, physical health benefits
By Coco Lederhouse
From deployed Navy ships to disaster and crisis response units, animal-assisted intervention (AAI) programs using trained service dogs are increasingly being used to support those in high-pressure environments. This trend comes as evidence of the therapeutic benefits of the human-animal bond continues to grow in the scientific literature.
Dr. Todd T. French, a Department of Defense advisor on the human-animal bond, presented the session “There’s a Dog on This Ship! How Expeditionary Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) Are Bringing the Power of the Human-Animal Bond (HAB) to Stressful Environments” on June 21 at AVMA Convention 2024 in Austin, Texas.
Dr. French serves as a lieutenant colonel in the Army. Since 2015, he has worked on human-animal bond programs and policies across all military branches. He says using the human-animal bond to promote wellbeing during stressful events is an overlooked recovery resource that may be particularly beneficial in a work environment where mental acuity is critical and burnout is common.
The practice of incorporating dogs into crisis response first emerged in 1995 when the Federal Emergency Management Agency requested these animals to provide comfort following the Oklahoma City bombing.
Since then, researchers have been investigating service dogs’ impact in this area. In a 2005 study, AAI with therapy dogs showed a statistically significant reduction in stress in as brief as a five-minute interaction with health care workers. Moreover, the interactions improved coping and recovery, enhanced morale, and reduced the effects of emotional distress.
There is now a push among advocates, including Dr. French, for “facility dogs.” These are dogs that are specially trained as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) service dogs and deliver AAI with a volunteer or professional in a residential or clinic setting. The dog must be trained to do specific, skilled tasks in a variety of situations within the facility.
Facility dog Charlie provides animal-assisted support for Pentagon personnel and visitors. Data show an average reduction in stress of 19.3% following interaction with Charlie. (Courtesy of America’s VetDogs)
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 9; 10.2460/javma.262.9.1165
Assistance Dogs International (ADI)-certified facility dogs and their handlers are trained to the same standards as ADI-certified assistance dogs.
A 2021 study in the Journal of Clinical Nursing that looked at facility dogs showed these dogs can lessen subjectively experienced stress and anxiety after traumatic stress. These dogs are beneficial in courtrooms and among workers in health care, the military, and first responders.
“What we’re finding is that these animals are not just impacting individuals, but groups as well,” Dr. French said.
A recent study from investigators at the University of Arizona showed that the use of psychiatric service dogs for military veterans lessens PTSD symptoms, increases social engagement, and decreases anxiety and depression.
The dogs enable mental health professionals to facilitate conversations and mitigate operational-related stressors through trained and untrained behavior. They also provide an opportunity for One Health collaboration among health care providers.
“Veterinary care and animal advocacy has to be written into every part of the policy” for facility dogs, Dr. French said.
That means programs should involve facility leadership and staff to develop animal welfare-centric policies, knowledgeable handlers using positive reinforcement and noncoercive training techniques, predictable AAI environments, and continuous evaluation of the program.
“There are no animal-assisted interventions without animal advocacy, and as veterinary professionals, we need to be involved,” Dr. French said. “We need to be there to verify these programs and have confidence that even though these dogs are working, the dogs can still be dogs.”
How dog owner feeding choices correlate with nutritional health outcomes
Demographic data from the Dog Aging Project contribute valuable data for dogs and humans
By Coco Lederhouse
What if people could learn something from dogs about nutrition? Researchers from the Dog Aging Project, the largest cohort study of pet dogs to date, are exploring that possibility by analyzing owner-reported feeding choices.
Dr. Janice S. O’Brien is a research team member with the Dog Aging Project and a doctoral student at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. O’Brien presented the session “Feeding Choices Owners Make: Early Findings from the Dog Aging Project” on June 21 at AVMA Convention 2024 in Austin, Texas.
“There’s a lot of emotions baked into what an owner chooses to feed their pets,” says Dr. Janice S. O’Brien, a research team member with the Dog Aging Project. Understanding owner food choices can help researchers use demographic data to further dog and human science.
Citation: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 262, 9; 10.2460/javma.262.9.1165
Because dogs eat a more consistent diet than people, the research group is able to conduct meaningful research in dog nutrition that isn’t feasible in people, she explained. Controlling for dog characteristics is important when comparing nutrition-health outcomes because different populations of dogs eat different foods.
These findings will provide insights for veterinary nutrition researchers as well as general practitioners. Additionally, using dogs as models for translational research could help researchers learn more about human nutrition.
Data collection and analysis
Data from the first two years of the study include 43,517 online surveys completed by dog owners and information about 27,478 dogs.
Owners provided information on dog food choices, including kibble, freeze-dried or home-cooked meals, homemade or commercial raw, semi-dry food, or “other” diets.
These data were analyzed, along with potential confounders such as dog age, sex, body size, and mixed-breed or purebred status, to measure associations (adjusted odds ratios) with dog health outcomes. Outcome categories included dental or oral; skin; orthopedic; gastrointestinal; ear, nose, and throat, kidney or urinary; cardiac; and respiratory.
The diets
The majority (81%) of surveyed dog owners reported that they fed their dog kibble as the primary diet component. A home-cooked diet was the second most popular, at about 4%.
Of the owners who included a secondary diet component, 32% fed canned food, 21% fed home-cooked food, and 17% fed kibble.
Nearly 90% of owners reported feeding their dogs a “very consistent” diet.
Owner and dog demographics
Various owner demographics were correlated with primary diet type. For example, older owners were less likely to feed kibble and instead chose canned or freeze-dried food.
The higher the owner’s education level, the more likely they were to feed kibble and less likely to feed home-cooked or commercial raw diets.
In general, the more people who lived in the household, the more likely they were to feed kibble instead of nearly every other food choice.
In dogs, the smaller the size, the less likely they were fed kibble. Homemade raw food was the only diet type that correlated positively with dog size.
Dog activity level also correlated with diet type, with the not active dogs more likely to be fed canned, home-cooked, or semi-dry food over kibble. Very active dogs were most likely to be fed homemade raw food.
There was a correlation between perceived health status and diet type. Owners selected a health status for their dog on a scale of excellent to very poor. Dogs on a kibble diet were significantly healthier than those with a different primary diet type. A worse health status was correlated with dogs that were fed a home-cooked, canned, semi-dry, or “other” diet.
Diet type and health conditions
Understanding owner food choices is imperative to pet nutrition, Dr. O’Brien explained. Food choice correlates with health findings, and health outcomes correlate with diet type, she said.
For example, dogs that ate commercial raw food as a primary diet were 1.7 times as likely to be reported as having a respiratory disease diagnosis than were those that ate kibble.
Dogs fed a home-cooked diet were 1.6 times as likely to have liver disease, 1.3 times as likely to have kidney disease, and 1.4 times as likely to have gastrointestinal disease.
Diet models
The Food Frequency Questionnaire, a self-reported limited checklist of food consumption over time, is a standard tool for quantifying nutritional exposures in people. However, the tool offers benefits for use in dogs as well.
Because most owners know exactly what and when their pets eat, and most feed their pets the same food consistently, this minimal dietary variation is helpful for statistical analysis.
The Dog Aging Project is working to validate a diet questionnaire for use in veterinary research. To date, it has invited 3,035 project participants to keep a three-day food diary, stratified by diet type. Researchers anticipate a 30% response rate, meaning the valuable questionnaire could collect data from around 1,000 dogs.
“As we go into the future, we’ll be able to design more detailed studies looking at all of the different potential additions to diet like treats, supplements, meal toppers, and see if there are any correlations that happen with those,” Dr. O’Brien said.
Visit dogagingproject.org for more information about the Dog Aging Project’s studies.
CDC announces changes to US canine import requirements
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced July 22 that it has substantially revised its new rule on dog importation to the U.S. as it relates to dogs from rabies-free and low risk dog rabies countries. The new importation requirements, which took effect August 1, are meant to prevent a reintroduction of canine rabies into the country.
“These updates incorporate the feedback received from the public, industry partners, and various countries on the new rule, and clarify and simplify the processes for those bringing in dogs from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries. This update also includes a process for waiver requests for the airline industry,” the announcement states.
The CDC says for dogs that have only been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the six months before U.S. entry, the CDC Dog Import Form is the only form that is needed. It is available for free and the person bringing the dog into the U.S. is the one to fill it out. Each dog must have its own form.
In addition to having a receipt for a CDC Dog Import Form, the requirements are that all dogs:
Be healthy on arrival.
Be at least 6 months old.
Have a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner to identify them.
The CDC Dog Import Form can be filled out the day of travel and the receipt can be shown to airlines and border officials as a printed copy or by phone. The receipt will be good for travel into the U.S. for six months from the issue date, including multiple entries, according to the CDC.
Dog entering the country from rabies high-risk countries face additional requirements. For U.S.-vaccinated dogs, these include a certification of U.S.-issued rabies vaccination form or a U.S. Department of Agriculture–endorsed export health certificate. Foreign-vaccinated dogs require other documentation.
Canadian officials had previously expressed concerns that the new regulations would impact tourism and transportation sectors, Americans and Canadians living in border communities, and people with service dogs who require their support when traveling.
“The AVMA supports the CDC’s efforts to improve dog importation standards with the intent of protecting animal health, animal welfare, and public health,” said Dr. Sandra Faeh, AVMA president. “The AVMA also looks forward to continuing to work with the CDC to help veterinarians prepare for and understand the changes.”
The AVMA has collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help veterinarians prepare for and understand the changes. This FAQ document is available at jav.ma/dogimportfaq.
AVMA updates antimicrobial policies
The AVMA has updated two of its policies concerning the judicious therapeutic use of antimicrobials and endorsed a joint statement from the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) and Academy of Veterinary Consultants (AVC) on the therapeutic use of medically important antimicrobials in cattle.
The actions by the AVMA Board of Directors (BOD) occurred June 19 while meeting in Austin, Texas, held concurrently with AVMA Convention 2024.
During the meeting, the BOD also approved modifying membership terms on the AVMA Committee on Antimicrobials (CoA) as recommended by the committee itself. Now a CoA member can serve two consecutive terms as a primary representative, then they can choose to serve a three-year term as an alternate representative but are not required to do so.
Policy revisions
The Board approved CoA recommendations to revise two AVMA policies, “Judicious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials” and “Judicious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials in Aquatic Animal Medicine.”
Concerning the first policy, the CoA explained in its recommendation to the BOD that the third core principle of antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary medicine, according to the AVMA policy “Antimicrobial Stewardship Definition and Core Principles,” is “select and use antimicrobial drugs judiciously.” This is expanded upon with content organized in five bullet points. The CoA recommended the AVMA’s “Judicious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials” policy be reorganized to align with the content of the third core principle.
Therefore, the new policy reads as follows:
“Antimicrobial stewardship refers to the actions veterinarians take individually and as a profession to preserve the effectiveness and availability of antimicrobial drugs through conscientious oversight and responsible medical decision-making while safeguarding animal, public, and environmental health. Management and prevention strategies should be employed to minimize the need for antimicrobial drugs. Judicious therapeutic use of antimicrobials is a core principle of the broader goal of antimicrobial stewardship. In accordance with the FDA, therapeutic uses are associated with the prevention, control, and treatment of specific diseases that are necessary for assuring the health of animals.
Judicious use principles
Maintain veterinary oversight by establishing Judicious use should include veterinary oversight in the context of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR), the basis for interaction among veterinarians, their clients, and their patients, regardless of the distribution system through which the antimicrobial was obtained.
Identify barriers to appropriate antimicrobial prescribing and usage.
Use an evidence-based approach for making a diagnosis and determining whether an antimicrobial drug is indicated.
Investigate the problem to understand the population or individual level risk factors.
Perform diagnostic testing to confirm the likelihood that an infectious pathogen is present and causing or likely to cause disease.
Avoid antimicrobial therapy for uncomplicated viral infections, self-limiting bacterial infections, and non-bacterial inflammatory conditions.
Make an informed selection of an appropriate antimicrobial drug and regimen.
Determine whether the purpose of therapy is for prevention, control, or treatment.
Target antimicrobial therapy to ill or at-risk animals when possible and discern if individual treatment of ill or at-risk animals is sufficient to improve the overall group morbidity, mortality, and herd well-being; or if herd or group therapy is needed to control clinical outcome properly.
Perform culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing when indicated and feasible, to guide the selection of antimicrobials.
Use current pharmacological science, principles, regulatory guidance and contextual understanding of resistance in the animal population of concern.
Determine duration of therapy by evaluating scientific and clinical evidence, where available, to obtain the desired health outcome while minimizing selection for antimicrobial resistance, as allowed by law.
Follow scientifically based withdrawal periods to prevent violative residues in foods of animal origin.
Refer to relevant veterinary medical guidelines for judicious therapeutic use.
Assess outcomes of antimicrobial use.
Maintain accurate records of therapy and outcome.
Ensure proper handling of antimicrobials.
Avoid environmental contamination with antimicrobials whenever possible including proper disposal according to guidelines and local, state, or federal law.
Adhere to and promote proper storage and handling according to the label.”
As for the policy on “Judicious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials in Aquatic Animal Medicine,” the CoA proposed numerous changes in wording of the policy to make it more contemporary and relevant. Additionally, several of the bullet points were combined to improve the policy’s clarity and make it more concise.
For instance, the revised policy now directs veterinarians to “Develop biosecurity plans based on risks of pathogen introduction and transmission, especially if the captive population shares water sources with wild populations.”
Regarding disease diagnosis, it suggests practitioners “Make a thorough assessment to identify root cause(s) and develop appropriate mitigation measures to address predisposing factors when there is an increased disease incidence. This could involve an evaluation of husbandry and routine health management practices such as nutrition, stocking density, vaccination, health assessment and water quality.”
AABP and AVC
During its April conference call, the CoA was notified by the AABP primary representative to the CoA that the AABP, jointly with the AVC, had adopted a revised policy on the judicious therapeutic use of antimicrobials in cattle.
The AABP and AVC changed the title of the policy to “Joint AABP-AVC Policy on the Judicious Therapeutic Use of Medically Important Antimicrobials in Cattle” to indicate that it is primarily directed at judicious use of medically important antimicrobials in cattle, according to the CoA recommendation for the BOD to endorse the revised policy as it aligns with AVMA policy.
Additional changes were made to the verbiage to make it more contemporary and relevant. Both the AABP and the AVC boards of directors have approved the revised policy.
The AVMA Board of Directors recently took actions regarding the judicious therapeutic use of antimicrobials, including endorsing a revised joint policy by the American Association of Bovine Practitioners and the Academy of Veterinary Consultants directed at judicious use of medically important antimicrobials in cattle.
Assemblies
Alabama VMA
The Alabama VMA (ALVMA) held its Emerald Coast Veterinary Conference from May 29-June 2 in Miramar Beach, Florida. The ALVMA officials are Drs. Babette D. Authement, Fairhope, president; Jim Lovell, Athens, president-elect; Brett Brooks, Enterprise, vice president; Susan Parsons, McCalla, treasurer; Bradley Harris, Dothan, immediate past president; and Wesley Clendinen, Huntsville, member at large.
American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture
The American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA) held its annual meeting from April 19-21 in Seattle. The AAVA officials are Drs. Bonnie Wright, Johnstown, Colorado, president; Shantel Julius, Hastings, Minnesota, president-elect; Grace Buchanan, Tryon, North Carolina, vice president; Carol Gifford, Columbus, Ohio, secretary-treasurer; Matthew E. Fricke, Springfield, Oregon, immediate past president; and directors—Drs. Tara Harrison, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Teela Jones, Tacoma, Washington; Nancy Martin, Vacaville, California; Jennifer Smallwood, Richardson, Texas, and Mitsie Vargas, Winter Haven, Florida.
Visit avma.org/news/community to read the full reports, including awards.
In Memory
Charles E. Brandner
Dr. Brandner (Colorado State ’56), 93, Petaluma, California, died April 18, 2024. He owned Brandner Veterinary Hospital, a mixed animal practice in Petaluma, prior to retirement in 1992. Dr. Brandner is survived by two sons, two daughters, 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, 12221 Merit Drive, Suite 1950, Dallas, TX 75251, ovarian.org.
Arthur B. Butterfield
Dr. Butterfield (Michigan State ’60), 92, Colorado Springs, Colorado, died March 29, 2024. Following graduation, he practiced in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Dr. Butterfield later served on the faculties of Louisiana State University, Georgetown University, and the University of Louisville. During that time, he focused on laboratory animal medicine and biomedical research. Dr. Butterfield retired in 2001.
A co-founder of the Academy of Surgical Research, he was active with what is now known as the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International. Dr. Butterfield’s wife, Pamela; five daughters and two sons; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren survive him. Memorials, toward the Dr. Arthur B. and Mrs. Pamela D. Butterfield Endowment to Foster Appreciation for MSU and CVM, may be made to Michigan State University, University Development, 535 Chestnut Road, Room 300, East Lansing, MI 48824, givingto.msu.edu/gift.
David I. Byers
Dr. Byers (Georgia ’72), 77, Galax, Virginia, died February 17, 2024. Following graduation, he established a dairy practice in Galax. Dr. Byers also served as a dairy production consultant in the United States and abroad. A member of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP), he was a past member of the AABP Nutrition Committee and represented the AABP on the former AVMA Steering Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance. Dr. Byers is survived by his wife, Linda; two sons; five grandchildren and a step-grandchild; and two sisters and a brother. Memorials may be made to Galax-Grayson Emergency Medical Services, 305 W. Old Town, Galax, VA 24333, or Galax Fire Department, P.O. Box 147, Galax, VA 24333.
Erica M. Garza
Dr. Garza (Texas A&M ’02), 48, Kyle, Texas, died May 21, 2024. She practiced at Ben White Animal Hospital in Austin, Texas, for 20 years. Active with the Rotary Club, Dr. Garza served as president of the South Austin Rotary Club and received several Rotary honors, including being named South Austin Rotarian of the Year and awarded the Paul Harris fellowship. Her husband, Landon Spillmann; her parents; and a sister and a brother survive her. Memorials may be made to the South Austin Rotary Club, 2507 Braemer Cove, Austin, TX 78747, or Doodle Dandy Rescue, 3609 Douglas Drive, Garland, TX 75041.
Donald K. Hinkle
Dr. Hinkle (Ohio State ’60), 94, Raleigh, North Carolina, died May 8, 2024. Following graduation, he practiced in Wilmette, Illinois, before joining the Air Force Veterinary Corps during the Vietnam War. Dr. Hinkle later transitioned to the United States Public Health Service and retired as a colonel. He went on to serve as director and clinical veterinarian at the Mannheimer Foundation in Homestead, Florida, consulted for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and did relief work in North Carolina. Dr. Hinkle was a diplomate of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine. He volunteered with the Christian Veterinary Mission. Dr. Hinkle’s wife, Patricia; a daughter; and two grandchildren survive him. Memorials may be made to Transitions Life Care, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607, or Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 97394, Washington, DC 20077.
Floyd P. Hitchcock Jr.
Dr. Hitchcock (Cornell ’61), 92, Marshfield, Wisconsin, died May 29, 2024. He owned Newstead Animal Hospital near Akron, New York. Dr. Hitchcock was an Army veteran of the Korean War. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; two daughters and a son; eight grandchildren; and his great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Cornerstone Community Church Blueprints Building Campaign, 1417 W. McMillan St., Marshfield, WI 54449.
Marnie R. Hook
Dr. Hook (Georgia ’65), 83, West Columbia, South Carolina, died March 3, 2024. He owned St. Andrews Animal Clinic, a small animal practice in Columbia, South Carolina, prior to retirement. Dr. Hook was a past member and a past treasurer of the South Carolina Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. He was also a member of the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians (SCAV) and Greater Columbia Association of Veterinarians. In 2000, Dr. Hook was named SCAV Veterinarian of the Year. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he served in the Air Force, attaining the rank of captain. Dr. Hook’s wife, Patricia; two sons and two daughters; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren survive him. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; Pets Inc., 300 Orchard Drive, West Columbia, SC 29170; or First Presbyterian Church, 1324 Marion St., Columbia, SC 29201.
Ira A. Linderman
Dr. Linderman (Cornell ’75), 76, Commack, New York, died March 7, 2024. He practiced more than 25 years at Fort Hill Animal Hospital in Huntington, New York. Dr. Linderman also volunteered with the League for Animal Protection of Huntington and served on the animal advisory panel for the town. He is survived by his wife, Sheryl; two sons; three grandchildren; and a sister. A son, Dr. Michael Linderman (Cornell ’06), and daughter-in-law, Dr. Heidi Barreiro-Linderman (Kansas State ’13), are also veterinarians.
William B. Luckemeyer
Dr. Luckemeyer (Minnesota ’72), 77, Alexandria, Minnesota, died April 1, 2024. Following graduation, he joined Alexandria Veterinary Clinic, a mixed animal practice. Dr. Luckemeyer subsequently became a partner in the practice. He is survived by his wife, Donna; two daughters; two grandchildren; and two sisters. Memorials may be made to St. Cloud Heart & Vascular Center, 1406 Sixth Ave. N., St. Cloud, MN 56303, or the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, 1365 Gortner Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108.
James A. Miyat
Dr. Miyat (Michigan State ’60), 95, Nokomis, Florida, died June 5, 2024. Following graduation, he practiced a year in Kokomo, Indiana. Dr. Miyat subsequently joined Eli Lilly in Greenfield, Indiana, working for the company in veterinary research for more than 30 years. He retired in 1992. Dr. Miyat was a member of the Indiana VMA. He was a veteran of the Navy. Dr. Miya’s wife, Joan; two sons and two daughters; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren survive him. Memorials may be made to Tidewell Hospice, 220 Wexford Blvd., Venice, FL 34293.
Richard D. Montrey
Dr. Montrey (Missouri ’64), 83, Chatham, Illinois, died February 14, 2024. From 1964-87, he served in the Army Veterinary Corps, attaining the rank of colonel. Dr. Montrey subsequently directed the division of laboratory animal medicine at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois. He retired in 1999. Dr. Montrey was a diplomate of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine. His wife, Margie; three sons; four grandchildren; and a great-grandchild survive him. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675, or Veterans of Foreign Wars, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111.
Paul L. Plummer
Dr. Plummer (Auburn ’66), 83, Brentwood, Tennessee, died March 17, 2024. Following graduation, he practiced large animal medicine in Russellville, Kentucky. Dr. Plummer subsequently joined Hillsboro Animal Hospital, a small animal practice in Green Hills, Tennessee. He later became a partner in the practice. Dr. Plummer is survived by his wife, Sonja; two sons; three grandchildren; and two sisters and a brother. Memorials may be made to Hope for the World, c/o Brentwood Baptist Church, 7777 Concord Road, Brentwood, TN 37027.
Nathalie A. Rubin
Dr. Rubin (St. Georges ’05), 47, Leland, North Carolina, died April 8, 2024. Following graduation, she practiced in Maryland and North Carolina. In 2019, Dr. Rubin began teaching in the veterinary technology program at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, North Carolina. Her mother survives her.
Gary A. Spragg
Dr. Spragg (Missouri ’67), 80, Rogersville, Missouri, died January 27, 2024. Following graduation, he joined his father, Dr. Robert Spragg (Oklahoma State ’58), in practice at Spragg Veterinary Clinic in Rogersville. Dr. Spragg subsequently served in the Army for a few years before rejoining Spragg Veterinary Clinic. He retired in 2023.
Dr. Spragg was a lifetime member of the Missouri VMA. He is survived by his wife, Dixie; a son and a daughter; four grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and a brother. Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Community Foundation of the Ozarks, with the memo line of the check notated to In Time of Need Foundation, and sent to CFO, Attn: Finance Department, P.O. Box 8960, Springfield, MO 65801.
Karl K. White III
Dr. White (Cornell ’67), 81, Post Falls, Idaho, died March 17, 2024. A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, he served as a professor of orthopedic surgery at Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine prior to retirement. Following graduation, Dr. White was a partner at Valley Large Animal Hospital in Morgan Hill, California. From 1976-82, he served on the veterinary faculty of Cornell University, where he was an instructor and head of the large animal clinic. Dr. White subsequently joined the veterinary college at Washington State. His four children, 15 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild survive him.
