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The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital remained open for emergency service following Hurricane Gustav. Since the storm struck the Louisiana coast, the SVM’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital has treated about 100 pets, not including a large number of baby squirrels and a number of baby birds treated by the SVM’s Wildlife Hospital. “We are seeing some pets with injuries from the storm, such as cuts from storm debris and other animal bites, among others,” said Steven Winkler, hospital director. “We are also seeing a number of animals from referral veterinarians because so many of those clinicians are not able to open their offices, or their phone lines are out and the clients are not able to reach their veterinarians. Of course, we are happy to be able to assist our local veterinarians at this time and return the animals to their local clinicians’ care as soon as their offices are open.”
The Veterinary Teaching Hospital lost power along with the rest of the University but was able to run on generator power (though without air conditioning). Winkler added, “The faculty, interns, residents, staff and students really stepped up to the task, even without air conditioning, and they did a fabulous job. We saw close to 100 baby squirrels brought into the hospital, and the students on duty greeted every one of them as if that squirrel was a personal pet of the person bringing that animal in to us. We will examine them and care for them until we can get them to wildlife rehabilitators, who will then release them back to the wild.” “When we lost our air conditioning system, things got a little more exciting. The humidity in the building got so high that condensation built up on the floors and made the operating rooms virtually unusable,” said Winkler. As a result, the surgery staff moved to the School’s mobile unit with its self-contained A/C unit, and the surgery was done there. Portable A/C units were used to keep critical patients and equipment cool.
Winkler added, “Several members of our staff worked around-the-clock as they responded to the needs of our patients. Our facility services crew was always ready to do whatever was needed to keep us up and running, and members of our housekeeping staff did everything in their power to address the rain that blew into the building and the constantly-sweating floors.” The LSU Large Animal Hospital received a few storm related cases, however, the equine industry as a whole was very proactive in carrying out evacuations and placing their animals out of harm’s way. The key concerns to be on the watch for now will be issues brought on by the increase of standing water; namely encephalitis cases caused by the increase in mosquito populations and hoof problems related to horses being in standing water for a prolonged period of time. The Veterinary Teaching Hospital will open at 8:00 a.m. for regular business hours on Monday, September 8. The Hospital will continue to accept emergency patients on a 24-hour basis. Information for people evacuating with pets Louisiana State University is closely monitoring Hurricane Gustav. Updates related to the storm will be posted at www.lsu.edu. The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine will not be boarding any animals other than patients of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. People evacuating with their animals need to board their animals with a kennel or veterinarian in an area that will not be affected by the storm, or arrange to stay in a hotel that allows pets. People can ask their personal veterinarian for a referral to a veterinarian or boarding facility in an area that will not be affected by the storm. For on-line information about pet-friendly hotels, check out www.BringYourPet.com, www.petswelcome.com, or www.pets-allowed-hotels.com. People can get information about planning for an evacuation with animals at the Louisiana State Animal Response Team (LSART) website at www.lsart.org. If people need assistance evacuating with pets, they should contact their local Office of Emergency Preparedness (http://www.ohsep.louisiana.gov/linkpages/parishpa.htm). At this time, it is anticipated that the Veterinary Teaching Hospital will be operating under its regular hours on Thursday, August 28 and Friday, August 29. The Hospital will be open for emergencies only starting Friday, August 29 at 5:00 p.m. through Wednesday, September 3 at 8:00 a.m. These times are subject to change depending on the course of Hurricane Gustav. Further updates will be available on the School of Veterinary Medicine at www.vetmed.lsu.edu. LSU Equine Health Studies Program Has New Director
The Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine is pleased to announce that Frank Andrews, DVM, MS, DACVIM, is the new director of the LSU Equine Health Studies Program. He joined the faculty on August 1. Dr. Andrews comes to LSU from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, where he was professor and section chief of large animal medicine. He earned his DVM and MS degrees from Washington State University and completed his residency at The Ohio State University. He has received many awards and honors and has served on numerous boards and in societies such as the Comparative Gastroenterology Society (past president), Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) Society (current president), Medical Advisory Board to the Knoxville Zoological Park, and Equine Advisory Council with Astra-Zeneca, Merial, and Intervet, Inc. He has published over 100 refereed articles and book chapters and he has presented his research nationally and internationally. On August 13, Dr. Andrews received the Webster Pendergrass Outstanding Service Award from the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. The award recognizes a teaching, research or extension faculty member who has contributed most to the fulfillment of the Institute’s goals and objectives. The nomination noted his lengthy service to equine research, his education of horse owners, practitioners and veterinary students and his leadership in the Institute of Agriculture. He contributed significant service to the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Institute of Agriculture during his 20 years at the University of Tennessee. The fact that his colleagues wanted to honor his service before he began a new phase of his career as director of equine health sciences at Louisiana State University is further recognition of his impact on the University.
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General is prepared for his procedure in the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s anesthesia area. |
Because of the difficulties associated with the implantation of a highly complex device designed for humans and the cost involved with such a procedure, there is only one pet with cardiac disease that has to this day received an internal defibrillator. With the support of an ICD manufacturer (Medtronic, Inc., Minneapolis, Minn.), General’s owners were able to obtain an ICD. They contacted the cardiology service at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, which accepted the challenge of performing this rare procedure coordinated by Dr. Romain Pariaut, assistant professor of veterinary cardiology.
Implantable defibrillators are a life-saving therapy for many people with heart disease who are at risk for dangerously fast and potential lethal heart rates. An implantable defibrillator continuously monitors the heart and, if a dangerous or potentially lethal heart rate is detected, an electrical shock is sent to correct it.
General’s owners drove from Missouri to Baton Rouge on July 14. The procedure was done on July 16 with the support of the local ICD manufacturer’s field engineer. Unfortunately, this first surgery was unsuccessful because of the many differences between the dog and the human anatomy. On July 21, a second procedure was done successfully. The ICD was able to detect the episodes of rapid heart rate and treat them appropriately.
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Dr. Romain Pariaut prepares the internal cardioveter defibrillator for placement in General. |
General has been monitored for the past week in the intensive care unit. Because a new generation ICD was implanted, it is possible for the doctors to monitor the ICD wirelessly from a specifically designed computer, also called programmer. Also, it allows them to change multiple parameters as needed.
The procedure was successful, but there are many short term and long term complications, such as infection, that may happen after placement of an ICD. Dr. Pariaut will continue to monitor his progress. General’s owners are coming to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine to take him home on SATURDAY, AUGUST 2. Members of the media are invited to meet them and General at the SVM. Please contact Ginger Guttner at 225-578-9922 or gguttner@vetmed.lsu.edu for more information.
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Dr. Peter F. Haynes |
LSU Dean Receives National Veterinary Association’s Highest Honor
Dr. Peter F. Haynes, dean of the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, has earned the 2008 AVMA Award. Marked as the American Veterinary Medical Association's highest honor, the award recognizes distinguished contributions to the advancement of veterinary medical organizations. The award was conferred at the AVMA’s Annual Conference held in New Orleans, La., July 19-22, 2008.
“It is a great honor to be recognized by our national organization and to join the outstanding veterinarians who previously received this prestigious award,” said Dr. Haynes. “I always saw my engagement in organized veterinary medicine as an opportunity to contribute to this great profession, and yet that involvement provided me with so much in the way of personal and professional development. My opportunity to be a volunteer leader was clearly facilitated by a supportive employer and colleagues over the years, career mentors and role models, and an understanding home environment. I am grateful to many individuals that contributed to my recognition by the AVMA.”
Dr. Haynes has been a member of the AVMA since 1969 and served for 17 years in the House of Delegates, representing the American Association of Equine Practitioners. He served on the House Advisory Committee for six years and was instrumental in the development of the first winter HOD session, held this past January. Additionally, he has served on numerous committees and task forces including the association’s Long Range Planning Committee.
Dr. Haynes is also a member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners and served as the association’s president in 1991. As part of that association, he helped guide its strategic planning initiative and governance changes and served on numerous other committees. In 2001, the AAEP honored him with Distinguished Life Membership. In addition, Dr. Haynes has participated on a variety of committees of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. He also helped co-develop the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association's Equine Committee.
Dr. Haynes earned his DVM degree from Colorado State University in 1969 and his American College of Veterinary Surgeons specialty certification in 1977. Along with his involvement in organized veterinary medicine, Dr. Haynes has held a variety of roles at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine since joining its staff as an equine clinician in 1974. He was executive associate dean from 2000 through 2006 and interim dean from July 2006 until June 2007, when he was named dean.
LSU Hosts Veterinary Dermatology Conference
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is hosting a veterinary dermatology conference entitled, “A Look at Skin Disease Based on Clinical Lesions/Cutaneous Reaction Patterns in the Dog and Cat” on Sunday, September 7. This conference is generously sponsored by Vetoquinol USA Inc., Virbac Corporation, D.V. M. Pharmaceuticals (IVX Animal Health), Bayer Animal Health, and Sogeval.
Topics include Claw Disease of the Dog and Cat, The Pruritic Dog, Nasal Dermatoses of the Dog and Cat, Otitis Externa/Pinnal Disease of the Dog and Cat, Nodules and Draining Tracts in the Cat, Pododermatitis in the Dog and Cat, The Pruritic Cat, and Nodules and Draining Tracts in the Dog. The instructors are Kristen Fulham, DVM, MPT, dermatology resident, Southeast Veterinary Specialists; Stephen Lemarie, DVM, MS, DACVD, staff dermatologist, Southeast Veterinary Specialists; Sandra R. Merchant, DVM, DACVD, professor of veterinary dermatology and staff dermatologist, LSU School of Veterinary Medicine; Laura K. Sickafoose, DVM, dermatology resident, LSU School of Veterinary Medicine; Tara S. Snook DVM, assistant clinical professor of dermatology and staff dermatologist, LSU School of Veterinary Medicine; and Rebekah Westermeyer, DVM, MM, dermatology resident, LSU School of Veterinary Medicine.
Eight hours of continuing education credit or 0.8 CEU credits (one hour equals 0.1 CE unit) will be earned for this course. Certification forms will be provided for participants to certify the credit hours earned. The registration fee is $150 if postmarked on or before August 17 ($175 if postmarked after August 17). Fee includes seminar materials, break refreshments, and a catered lunch.
For more information, please call 225-578-9900, or click here to download a registration form.
Now that summer is here, it’s good to remember that
some pets require special care to avoid heatstroke.
Dogs cannot tell you when their temperatures rise,
and it is our responsibility to ensure that our pets
have sufficient shelter from the sun, adequate water
to drink, and a way to cool off as the heat rises.
Take care when leaving your pets outside during the
day, and never leave your dog in a hot car, even for
a few minutes.
A dog’s body temperature is normally between 101°F
and 102°F. They regulate their body temperature by
panting; dogs do not sweat like people. Panting
expels the heat. If the heat is not expelled fast
enough, the body temperature rises. A rise of 3
degrees to a temperature of 105°F can cause the dog
to have problems keeping up with his body’s demand
for oxygen. When the temperature hits 108°F, the
internal organs can start breaking down at a
cellular level.
Early signs of heatstroke are rapid breathing, dry
nose, rapid heart rate, and gums that leave their
healthy color for dull, grayish-pink or red. This is
an emergency! If your dog exhibits these symptoms,
move the dog to a shaded area, soak the coat in cool
water, and get him to a veterinarian immediately.
These symptoms can be followed in minutes by
collapse, seizure, coma and death.
The most important aid in heatstroke is prevention,
so please ensure that your outdoor pets have plenty
of shade and water and avoid leaving your pets in
the car, even with the windows down. Make sure that
your pet has a tip-proof bowl, so that he can’t
spill his water bowl while you’re not at home.
Lastly, plan walks for the early morning or late
evening hours when the temperature is relatively
low. With a few minor precautions, you and your pets
can have a safe and happy summer.
LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital Again Receives Accreditation
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Steven Winkler, director of the LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital & Clinics, escorts Lisa Lopshire, AAHA practice consultant, through the hospital during the reaccreditation inspection. |
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital & Clinics has again received accreditation following a comprehensive evaluation by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). The evaluation includes a quality assessment review of the hospital’s facility, medical equipment, practice methods and pet health care management.
Only 12 percent of all small
animal veterinary practices in the U.S. have
achieved accreditation by the American Animal
Hospital Association. In order to maintain
accredited status, the LSU Veterinary Teaching
Hospital must continue to be evaluated regularly by
the association’s trained consultants.
“The LSU Veterinary Teaching
Hospital belongs to a select group of practices that
are committed to meeting the highest standards in
veterinary medicine,” says Thomas A. Carpenter, DVM,
AAHA president. “AAHA hospitals pass a stringent
evaluation of more than 900 standards covering
patient care, client service and medical protocols.
By attaining accreditation, the LSU Veterinary
Teaching Hospital is demonstrating its dedication to
offering the best care to its patients and clients.”
The
American Animal Hospital Association is an
international organization of more than 36,000
veterinary care providers who treat companion
animals. Established in 1933, the association is
well known among veterinarians for its high
standards for hospitals and pet health care. For pet
care information or a referral to an AAHA hospital,
pet owners can visit the AAHA website at
www.healthypet.com.
The LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital located at Skip Bertman Drive has been an accredited practice member of the association since 1976 and can be reached online at www.vetmed.lsu.edu.
LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Confers
Four Advanced
Degrees
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Receiving advanced degrees from the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine are (from left to right) Drs. Martin Vidal, David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, and Sunil Chunilal Vasanjee. Congratulating them are (from right to left) Dean Peter F. Haynes, Associate Dean for Research and Advanced Studies Thomas R. Klei, and Professor of Veterinary Clinical Pathology Stephen Gaunt, representing the LSU Graduate School. |
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine conferred four
graduate degrees at its Diploma Distribution
Ceremony for the Graduate Academic Studies Program
on May 16.
Associate Dean for Research and Advanced Studies and
Boyd Professor
Anna Henrik Israyelyan
(Yerevan, Armenia) received her Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.) degree from the Department of
Pathobiological Sciences. Her dissertation is
entitled, “Novel
Oncolytic Herpesviruses for Breast Cancer Treatment.”
Dr. Israyelyan’s major advisor was Dr. Konstantin G.
Kousoulas, professor of veterinary virology.
Martin Andreas Vidal
(Munich, Germany) received his Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.) degree from the Department of Veterinary
Clinical Sciences. His dissertation is entitled, “Characterization
and Comparison of Cell Frequency, Growth, and
Multipotential Differentiation of Adult Mesenchymal
Stromal Cells Derived from Equine Bone Marrow and
Adipose Tissue.”
Dr. Vidal’s major advisors were Dr. Jill R. Johnson,
professor of veterinary medicine, and Dr. Rustin M.
Moore, adjunct professor of veterinary surgery.
David S. Migallon
(Almagro, Spain) received his Master’s (M.S.) degree
from the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences.
His dissertation is entitled, “Randomized
Controlled Trial Evaluating Adeno-MOMP and MOMP DNA
Vaccines Against
Chlamydophila
psittaci Challenge in Cockatiels (Nymphicus
hollandicus).”
Migallon’s major advisor was Dr. Thomas N. Tully,
Jr., professor of veterinary clinical sciences.
Sunil Chunilal Vasanjee
(Bulawayo,
Zimbabwe)
received his Master’s (M.S.) degree from the
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences. His
dissertation is entitled, “Phenotypic
Characterization of Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament
Associated Synoviocytes.”
Dr. Vasanjee’s major advisors were Dr. Mandi Lopez,
assistant professor, and Dr. Giselle Hosgood,
professor of veterinary surgery.
“Training future biomedical researchers is an
extremely important part of the mission of the
School of Veterinary Medicine,” said Dr. Klei. “Our
students continue to be successful following
graduation and take significant positions in
biomedical research in academia, industry and the
private sector. The diversity of research activities
within the SVM is also reflected in the titles of
their theses and dissertations. The School is one of
the premier biomedical research institutions in the
state and would not be so without the graduate
program.”
On May 2, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine
hosted the 34th annual Awards and
Honors Banquet at the LSU Union. The banquet was
sponsored in part by Nestlé Purina Pet Care,
Novartis Animal Health, and the Louisiana Veterinary
Medical Association (
Dr. Joseph Taboada, associate dean for Student and Academic Affairs, served as Master of Ceremonies. Each year, the Master of Ceremonies is the winner of the Carl J. Norden Distinguished Teacher Award from the previous year. Dean Peter F. Haynes welcomed the guests.
The evening’s awards were capped off with the
presentation of the Arkansas Veterinary Medical
Foundation and
Over $130,000 was distributed to students in the
form of awards and scholarships.
Faculty and
staff awards were bestowed at the beginning of
the evening. The award recipients are listed below
alphabetically in order of their hometown state and
city:
Arkansas
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Dr. David
Senior, associate dean for advancement and
strategic initiatives, congratulates Jana
Doege (Class of 2008) upon her receipt of
the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Foundation
Jack R. Redman and Elizabeth G.
Redman Senior Award. Not pictured is the
other award recipient Rachel Warner (Class
of 2008). |
Nanci Solis,
Class of 2011, Batesville, Ark., Opal Christiansen
Memorial Scholarship;
Stacey Smith,
Class of 2010, Batesville, Ark., Opal Christiansen
Memorial Scholarship;
Bradley Self,
Class of 2009, Blytheville, Ark., Perry B. LeCates,
Sr. Memorial Scholarship;
Melinda Larson,
Class of 2010, Cabot, Ark., Arkansas Veterinary
Medical Foundation Scholarship;
Joshua Hobbs,
Class of 2010, Cave Springs, Ark., Arkansas
Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarship;
Chad Brown,
Class of 2011, Conway, Ark., Arkansas Veterinary
Medical Foundation Jack R. Redman and Elizabeth G.
Redman Scholarship and Arkansas Veterinary Medical
Foundation Scholarship;
Crystal Garner,
Class of 2009, Danville, Ark., Arkansas Veterinary
Medical Foundation Scholarship;
Elizabeth Pike,
Class of 2009, DeQueen, Ark., LSU SCAVMA Bookstore
Scholarship and Louisiana Veterinary Medical
Association/American Association of Equine
Practitioners Foundation Scholarship;
Marlow Ball,
Class of 2010, Fayetteville, Ark., Arkansas
Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarship;
Julie Pate,
Class of 2011, Little Rock, Ark., Arkansas
Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarship;
Kevin Ware,
Class of 2010, Little Rock, Ark., Opal Christiansen
Memorial Scholarship;
Drew Parker,
Class of 2009, Lonoke, Ark., Arkansas Veterinary
Medical Foundation Scholarship;
Chris Nelson,
Class of 2011, Malvern, Ark., Arkansas Veterinary
Medical Foundation Jack R. Redman and Elizabeth G.
Redman Scholarship and Arkansas Veterinary Medical
Foundation Jack R. Redman and Elizabeth G. Redman
Scholarship;
Becky Neis,
Class of 2011, Mountain Home, Ark., Arkansas
Veterinary Medical Foundation Jack R. Redman and
Elizabeth G. Redman Scholarship;
Cassidee Landry,
Class of 2009, Rogers, Ark., Opal Christiansen
Memorial Scholarship;
Sheri Andrews,
Class of 2009, Sherwood, Ark., Opal Christiansen
Memorial Scholarship; and
Crystal Goche Myers,
Class of 2009, West Memphis, Ark., Arkansas
Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarship.
California
Ambria Haddad,
Class of 2011, Chino Hills, Calif., Student Chapter
of the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
Society Award.
Connecticut
Stefania Naiman,
Class of 2009, Danbury, Conn., LSU Student Chapter
of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Aesculapian Scholarship.
Florida
Michelle Dunleavy,
Class of 2010, Amelia Island, Fla., Brenda and
William Banks Memorial Award;
Rachel Carlson,
Class of 2010, Bradenton, Fla., AVID/Novartis Chip
Day Scholarship;
Melissa Irene Smith,
Class of 2011, Jacksonville, Fla., Dr. Herbert C.
Berger Scholarship; and
Robert Blair,
Class of 2010, Miami, Fla., Changaram Kumarath
Sankunny Memorial Award in Veterinary Pharmacology.
Georgia
Jennifer Caldwell,
Class of 2011, Gainesville, Ga., Sheri Ellen Cole
Memorial Scholarship.
Idaho
Katherine Smith,
Class of 2009, Boise, Idaho, Salsbury Scholarship.
Illinois
Alison Salmon,
Class of 2011, Carlyle, Ill., Veterinary Business
Management Association Award.
Louisiana
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Dr. James Rundell (left), president of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association, bestows the LVMA Outstanding Student Awards on (from left to right) Julie Schexnider (Class of 2008), Holly Brown (Class of 2010), and Marc Bordelon (Class of 2009). |
Daniel Langois,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge, La., Salsbury
Scholarship;
Gregg Griffenhagen,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge, La., Student Chapter of
the American Association of Feline Practitioners
Award and Catherine M. Landry and Daniel Gillane
Feline Studies Scholarship;
Hilari French,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge, La., The Robert M.
Hammatt Award for Proficiency in Food Animal
Medicine;
Kristine Hawkins,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge, La., Auxiliary to the
LSU Student Chapter of the American Veterinary
Medical Association Married Student Award
Michael Ratcliff,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge, La., Western Veterinary
Conference Scholarship and John D. Rhoades
Leadership Scholarship;
Rosey Andermann,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge, La., LSU SCAVMA
Bookstore Scholarship;
April Downs Fitzgerald,
Class of 2009, Baton Rouge/Alexandria, La., Lorio
Children Memorial Scholarship and Salsbury
Scholarship;
Leia Feinberg,
Class of 2010, Bogalusa, La., Peri Tümay, DVM,
Memorial Fellowship;
Emilie Schlatre McLellan,
Class of 2009, Central, La., Open House Award of
Appreciation;
Tina Miletello,
Class of 2010, Central, La., Schering Plough Animal
Health, Inc. Scholarship and Harold G. Forman Family
Foundation Equine Scholarship;
Kelli Urbina,
Class of 2011, Covington, La., Baton Rouge Society
for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Scholarship;
Laura D'Amico,
Class of 2009, Crowley, La., Auxiliary to the LSU
Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical
Association NAVLE Award and Dr. Robert K. Morris
Scholarship;
André Joubert,
Class of 2010, Eunice, La., LSU SCAVMA Bookstore
Scholarship;
Heather Bryant,
Class of 2011, Hineston, La., King-Solberger
Scholarship;
Kristin Marchal,
Class of 2010, Kenner, La., AVID/Novartis Chip Day
Scholarship;
Marc Bordelon,
Class of 2009, Lafayette, La., Auxiliary to the LSU
Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical
Association Scholarship, Auxiliary to the LSU
Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical
Association NAVLE Award, Simmons and Associates
Award, and Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association
Outstanding Student Award;
Kimber Singer,
Class of 2011, Lake Charles, La., Calcasieu Kennel
Club Scholarship;
Brandy Stone,
Class of 2009, Leesville, La., Raptor and Wildlife
Rehabilitation Achievement Award;
Ashley Leggitt,
Class of 2010, Mandeville, La., LSU Student Chapter
of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Aesculapian Scholarship and Eagle’s Talon Award of
Appreciation;
Leslie Pence,
Class of 2009, Mandeville, La., Raptor and Wildlife
Rehabilitation Achievement Award;
Amanda Claudet,
Class of 2009, Marrero, La., Baton Rouge Society for
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Scholarship;
Courtney Claire Brooks,
Class of 2011, Metairie, La., Y.Z. Abdelbaki
Memorial Scholarship;
Cynthia Rachal,
Class of 2009, Metairie, La., American Society of
Laboratory Animal Practitioners Student Award;
Mary Leissenger,
Class of 2010, Metairie, La., Invisible Fence
Scholarship;
Jeremy Delcambre,
Class of 2009, Monroe, La., Bayou Kennel Club, Inc.
Scholarship;
Lucy Newsome,
Class of 2010, Monroe, La., Perry B. LeCates, Sr.
Memorial Scholarship;
Patrick Cutbirth,
Class of 2011, Monroe, La., Bayou Kennel Club, Inc.
Scholarship and LSU Student Chapter of the American
Veterinary Medical Association Aesculapian
Scholarship;
Aliya "Yani" Magee,
Class of 2009, New Orleans, La., Herman W. and
Estelle Z. Kutun Scholarship;
Cynthia Albert,
Class of 2009, New Orleans, La., AVID/Novartis Chip
Day Scholarship and Open House Award of
Appreciation;
Jennifer Bruno,
Class of 2010, New Orleans, La., LSU Student Chapter
of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Aesculapian Scholarship;
Kevin Showalter,
Class of 2009, New Orleans, La., Auxiliary to the
LSU Student Chapter of the American Veterinary
Medical Association Married Student Award;
Lisa Ciolino,
Class of 2010, New Orleans, La., The Doctor Michael
G. Groves Award;
Meredith Mouney,
Class of 2009, New Orleans, La., Salsbury
Scholarship;
Mitzi Clark,
Class of 2009, New Orleans, La., Dr. Kim Michels
Memorial Scholarship and North American Veterinary
Conference Scholarship;
Adrienne Dardenne,
Class of 2010, New Roads, La., Schering Plough
Animal Health, Inc. Scholarship;
Alyce Leger,
Class of 2009, Opelousas, La., Salsbury Scholarship;
Daniel Dorbandt,
Class of 2011, Shreveport, La., Lorio Children
Memorial Scholarship;
David Espinosa,
Class of 2009, Sulphur, La., AVID/Novartis Chip Day
Scholarship;
Devon Castleberry Owens,
Class of 2009, Sulphur, La., Raptor and Wildlife
Rehabilitation Achievement Award;
Morgan Daigle,
Class of 2011, Sulphur, La., LSU Student Chapter of
the American Veterinary Medical Association
Aesculapian Scholarship;
Amber Michelle Ferguson,
Class of 2011, West Monroe, La., Y.Z. Abdelbaki
Memorial Scholarship; and
Jessica Simmons Parker,
Class of 2009, West Monroe, La., Harold G. Forman
Family Foundation Equine Scholarship and Race for
Education Winner's Circle Scholarship.
Massachusetts
Marie Chartier,
Class of 2009, Templeton, Mass., Hill's Pet
Nutrition Service Scholarship.
Michigan
Carrie Washburn
, Class of 2009, Fraser, Mich., Sheri Ellen Cole
Memorial Scholarship.
North Carolina
Meghan Johnson,
Class of 2009, Lenoir, N.C., The Henry Chester
Propes and Mary Wood Propes Memorial Scholarship;
and
Grace Burns,
Class of 2011, Washington, N.C., Perry B. LeCates,
Sr. Memorial Scholarship.
New Hampshire
Holly Brown,
Class of 2010, Berlin, N.H., Louisiana Veterinary
Medical Association Outstanding Student Award; and
Michelle Ruth Fecteau,
Class of 2009, Laconia, N.H., Nestlé Purina Award
for Excellence in Companion Animal Nutrition.
New York
Patricia Schuster,
Class of 2009, Glenville, N.Y., Louisiana Academy of
Veterinary Practice Companion Animal Scholarship and
Salsbury Scholarship;
Jessica Lipsett,
Class of 2011, Liverpool, N.Y., LSU SCAVMA Bookstore
Scholarship;
Leigh Parisi,
Class of 2009, Plainview, N.Y., Association of Avian
Veterinarians Award; and
Verna Serra,
Class of 2009, Suffern, N.Y., Margaret Lucille
Thomas Taylor Memorial Scholarship and Salsbury
Scholarship.
Pennsylvania
Brendon Brophy,
Class of 2010, Mt. Holly Springs, Pa., AVID/Novartis
Chip Day Scholarship.
Puerto Rico
Astrid Bigio,
Class of 2009, San Juan, Puerto Rico, M. Darnell
Besch Scholarship.
Texas
Lisa Berkowitz,
Class of 2009, Kingwood, Texas, Pfizer Animal Health
Veterinary Scholarship Award; and
Janel Doud,
Class of 2011, Southlake, Texas, AVID/Novartis Chip
Day Scholarship.
West Virginia
Holly A. Rice,
Class of 2009, Ridgeley, W.V., AVID/Novartis Chip
Day Scholarship.
Zimbabwe, Africa
Amy Norvall,
Class of 2011, Harare, Zimbabwe, AVID/Novartis Chip
Day Scholarship and LSU SVM Equine Health Studies
Program Scholarship.
LSU Veterinary School Offers Limited Equine Dentistry Course for
Non-Veterinarians
The 2008 edition of the Limited Equine Dentistry
Short Course will be held June 18-21, 2008, at the
School of Veterinary Medicine at Louisiana State
University. This course is designed to fulfill the
requirements of the Louisiana State Board of
Veterinary Medical Examiners for the practices of
limited equine dentistry by the non-veterinarian.
The course will include a review of equine dental
anatomy, aging, common dental abnormalities in
horses, dental equipment and floating techniques and
approximately 10 hours of actual floating on live
horses.
June 18 will consist of four hours of continuing
education for individuals that have completed the
course in the past. June 19-21 are the dates of the
full course including one-half day on Saturday.
Dr. Jenkins presided over the ceremony, and Mr. Jerry Shea, chairman of the LSU Board of Supervisors conferred the degrees. Dr. Jessica Enes, Class of 2008, opened the ceremony with the invocation. Program speakers included Clifford Vannoy, senior vice president of the LSU Alumni Association, Dr. Pamela Mitchell, School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association president, and Dr. James Rundell, president of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association.
Dr. Peter F. Haynes, dean, led the graduates in taking the Veterinarian’s Oath, adopted by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1969. Dr. Wesley Louis Lee, Class of 2008, closed the ceremony with the benediction.
Students who received Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees, senior awards, and internships are listed below alphabetically by state and hometown:
Arkansas
Shawn Marie Zimmerman, Clinton, Ark.;
Jana Katherine Doege, Fayetteville, Ark., Lady Baldridge Companion Animal Award and the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Foundation Jack R. Redman and Elizabeth G. Redman Senior Award;
Jennifer Michelle Mosley, Fort Smith, Ark., Open House Award of Appreciation;
Aaron Joshua Wages, Hampton, Ark.;
Katie Marie Baeyens, Little Rock, Ark.;
Lauren Elizabeth Long, Little Rock, Ark.
Heather Lyn Caldwell, Monticello, Ark.;
Alice Lynn Holifield, Rector, Ark.; and
Rachel Melanie Warner, Witts Springs, Ark., Arkansas Veterinary Medical Foundation Jack R. Redman and Elizabeth G. Redman Senior Award.
Connecticut
Katrine L. Voie, Westport, Conn., Schering Plough/Welch Allyn Small Animal Medicine Award.
Florida
Shelonda Lind Horton, Panama City Beach, Fla.;
Jennifer Lynn Fenner, Zephyrhills, Fla.
Illinois
Rimme Serena Singh, Northbrook, Ill., Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Certificate of Merit Award.
Louisiana
Laura Catherine Ward, Abita Springs, La.;
Bridget Cheree Kelly, Baker, La.;
Andrea Mae Andersen, Baton Rouge, La.;
Amy Beem Chow, Baton Rouge, La.;
Wendy Oubre Day, Baton Rouge, La.;
Anthony Michael Ioppolo, Baton Rouge, La.;
Travis Lee Procell, Baton Rouge, La.;
Evan Andrew Sones, Baton Rouge, La., Pfizer Small Animal Clinical Proficiency Award,
American College of Veterinary Radiology Award, and Schering Plough Oncology Award;
Jenny Liford Sones, Baton Rouge, La., LVMA Equine Clinical Proficiency Award;
Megan Gloria Stone, Baton Rouge, La., Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Certificate of Merit Award;
Brian Thomas Vandegrift, Baton Rouge, La.;
Jeri Beth Kindon, Blanchard, La.;
Ashley Kenner Turner, Bossier City, La.;
Jamie Sanders Ducote, Bunkie, La.;
Lauren Kaye Esposito, Chalmette, La., Merial Shelter Medicine Award;
Katie Chris Foote, Covington, La.;
Emily Claire Hensgens, Crowley, La.;
Leslie Ann Andermann, Gonzales, La.;
Kaikhushroo Hormazd Banajee, Kenner, La., Allan H. Hart/IDEXX Award;
Casi Elizabeth Boudreaux, Lafayette, La.;
Lindsey Renee Boudreaux, Lafayette, La.;
Heidi Elisabeth Cobb, Lafayette, La.;
Rebecca Lynn Poillion, Lafayette, La.;
Julie Montgomery Schexnider, Lafayette, La., Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association Outstanding Student Award;
Paul Anthony Whittington, Lafayette, La.;
Lindsey Nicole Myers, Lake Charles, La.;
Sarah Crenshaw Pitre, Larose, La.;
Jessica Carey Duncan, Mandeville, La., Arizona Equine Medical & Surgical Centre Award;
Lara MacDonald, Mandeville, La.;
Jennifer Lee Nitsche, Mandeville, La., Bayer Client Communications Award;
Gabriel Aran Van Brunt, Mandeville, La., American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists Award;
Jennifer Marie Sandoz, Marrero, La., Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Certificate of Merit Award and Bayer Award for Excellence in Dermatology;
Patricia Terrell Richardel, Metairie, La.;
Derek Ryan Kopecky, Mire, La., Schering Plough Cardiology Award;
Carly Casteel Billeaudeau, Monroe, La.;
Claudia Rachel Channing, New Orleans, La., Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society Award and Pfizer Anesthesiology Award;
Jessica Ann Leto, New Orleans, La.;
Connie Lynn McMillan, New Orleans, La.;
Diane Mary Savois, New Orleans, La.;
Margaret Neighbors Trumble, New Orleans, La., Kaytee Outstanding Senior Award in Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine;
Bronk B. McDaniel, Plainview, La., The Hershey Comeaux Memorial Award of Excellence and Novartis/Ethicon Companion Animal Award;
Amy Elizabeth Munchausen, Ponchatoula, La.;
Wesley Louis Lee, Shreveport, La., Edward Lloyd Mitchell Memorial Award, Hills "Buddy" Award, Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association/Beef Industry Council Clinical Proficiency Award, and American College of Veterinary Surgeons Proficiency Award;
April Storey Mackey, Shreveport, La.;
Glen A. Bonin, Jr., Slidell, La., American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists Award and American College of Veterinary Surgeons Proficiency Award;
Layne Rebecca Holland-Younger, Slidell, La.;
Emilie Seal Rouse, Varnado, La.;
Jason Christopher Brewer, Ville Platte, La.;
Jamie Lynn Charlie, Ville Platte, La.; and
Veronica Villars Abadie, Westwego, La.
Massachusetts
Jennifer A. Ayoub, Shrewsbury, Mass., Pfizer Critical Care Award.
Maryland
Lauren Kathryn Popiolek, Bel Air, Md.; and
James Robert Schinner, Jr., Ijamsville, Md.
Michigan
Mindy Anne Cooper, Cadillac, Mich., Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Certificate of Merit Award; and
Elizabeth Jean Mann, Fenton, Mich.
New Jersey
Elizabeth Ruth Merz, Maywood, N.J., American Association of Feline Practitioners Proficiency Award.
New York
Diana M. Lalor, Cambridge, N.Y.;
Stacy Heather Sultan, Kings Park, N.Y.;
Jessica Erin Enes, Rochester, N.Y., AVMA Auxiliary Fourth-Year Student Award and Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Certificate of Merit Award;
Maghan Eveland Wormuth, Rochester, N.Y.; and
Tracy Jean Millhouse, Rome, N.Y.
Pennsylvania
Amy Sara Holland, Southampton, Pa., Open House Award of Appreciation; and
Courtney Lin Miani, West Chester, Pa.
Puerto Rico
Alexander Mesonero-Morales, Aguada, Puerto Rico;
Karelma Frontera Acevedo, San Juan, Puerto Rico;
Javier J. Silva, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Certificate of Merit Award; and
Jennifer Crescioni-Laborde, Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, American Animal Hospital Association Senior Student Award and DermaPet Award for Excellence in Dermatology.
Texas
Erin Elizabeth Roof, Flower Mound, Texas, Pfizer Internal Medicine Award;
Antonio Leonardi-Cattolica, Houston, Texas; and
Virginia Chantil Einck, New Waverly, Texas.
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Dean Peter F. Haynes (center) congratulates Dr. Kirk Ryan (left) and Dr. Mark Acierno, the recipients of the 2008 School of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Awards. Not pictured is award recipient Dr. C.S. Venugopal. |
On May 2, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine
hosted the 34th annual Awards and
Honors Banquet at the LSU Union. The banquet was
sponsored in part by Nestlé Purina Pet Care,
Novartis Animal Health, and the Louisiana Veterinary
Medical Association (
Dr. Joseph Taboada, associate dean for Student and
Academic Affairs, served as Master of Ceremonies.
Each year, the Master of Ceremonies is the winner of
the Carl J. Norden Distinguished Teacher Award from
the previous year. Dean Peter F. Haynes welcomed the
guests.
Over $130,000 was distributed to students in the
form of awards and scholarships. Faculty and staff
awards were bestowed at the beginning of the
evening.
The Pfizer Animal Health Award for Research
Excellence was presented to Dr. Fang-Ting
Liang, assistant professor in the Department of
Pathobiological Sciences. This award is given to a
faculty member who has excelled in veterinary
medical research during the past two years.
Dr. James Miller,
professor of epidemiology and community health in
the Department of Pathobiological Sciences, received
the School of Veterinary Medicine Distinguished
Scholar Award, which is bestowed to a faculty
member who has made significant contributions to the
advancement of veterinary medicine through research
and/or scholarly activity.
The School of Veterinary Medicine Faculty Service Award was presented to Dr. David F. Senior, associate
dean
for advancement and strategic initiatives. This
award is presented to a faculty member who, in the
opinion of his or her fellow faculty, has made
significant contributions to the service aspects of
the School of Veterinary Medicine.
The Carl J. Norden Distinguished Teacher Award
was presented to Dr. Kirk Ryan. This award is
bestowed to a faculty member to recognize
outstanding teaching as judged by the responsiveness
of his or her students.
The evening’s awards were capped off with the
presentation of the Arkansas Veterinary Medical
Foundation and
Seventeen Students to Participate in Veterinary
Summer Scholars Program
Seventeen students have been selected to participate
in the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Summer Scholars
Program, an introduction to biomedical research through
research-driven activities. The 2008 Summer Scholars Program is
funded by the Merck-Merial Veterinary Scholar Program, a grant
from the National Institutes of Health, and a fellowship from
the Comparative Gastroenterology Society.
The Summer Scholars Program serves to further students’ learning and experiences beyond the required classroom and clinical training. The program is competitive and based on proposals submitted by first- and second-year veterinary students. The program encourages innovative studies in human and animal diseases, and lends further understanding to veterinary careers in biomedical research. Each year Merck-Merial selects veterinary schools to participate in its Animal Health Grants program, and LSU has received the funding for the seventh consecutive year. For the fifth consecutive year, students will also receive grants from the National Institute of Health (NIH) for summer study. There are only eight veterinary schools in the country with summer grant programs funded by both Merck-Merial and the NIH. The school also received a fellowship from the Comparative Gastroenterology Society. This society only funds one student per year, and it is notable that a student in the SVM received this award for the second consecutive year.
The grants provide $5,000 stipends to each student.
Merck-Merial will also sponsor the students’ participation at
the 2008 Merck-Merial Symposium on July 31-August 3, 2008, at
Michigan State University in East Lansing, Mich., where research
will be presented by students from the participating veterinary
schools. This conference will bring together scientists from
academia, the pharmaceutical industry, and NIH leadership in one
setting.
To participate in the Summer Scholars program, the
students developed their own research plan proposals with the
guidance of a faculty member, and a faculty committee selected
the participants based on the proposals. All first and second
year veterinary students throughout the country and abroad had
the opportunity to submit proposals.
The recipients of the Merck-Merial Summer
Research Awards and their project titles are as follows:
Nicholas Angelette is a
member of the Class of 2010 from Metairie, La., and his project
is entitled, “Contrast harmonic and spectral Doppler ultrasound
imaging of visceral lymph nodes in dogs.” His faculty mentor is
Dr. Lorrie Gaschen, associate professor of veterinary radiology.
Amanda “Brendt” Bonura
is a member of the Class of 2011 from Sunset, La., and her
project is entitled, “Estrus suppression in the mare: Avoiding
the need for frequent administration to effectively inhibit
estrous behavior.” Her faculty mentor is Dr. Dale Paccamonti,
head of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and
professor of theriogenology.
Daniel Dorbandt is a
member of the Class of 2011 from Shreveport, La., and his
project is entitled, “Characterization of integrins in the
normal canine cornea.” His faculty mentors are Dr. Renee Carter,
assistant professor of veterinary ophthalmology, and Dr. Timothy
Morgan, assistant professor of veterinary clinical medicine.
Meghan Hayden is a member of the Class of 2011 at Auburn
University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and her project is
entitled, “A pharmacokinetic study looking at levamisole
administration in horses and cows.” Her faculty mentor is Dr.
Rebecca McConnico, associate professor of veterinary medicine.
Diana Seaton is a member of the Class of 2010 from Long Beach,
Miss., and her project is entitled, “Role of acute phase
proteins in feline chronic kidney disease.” Her faculty mentor
is Dr. Mark Acierno, assistant professor of companion animal
medicine.
Margaret Shoats is a
member of the Class of 2011 from Clinton, La., and her project
is entitled, “The postnatal development of the coffin bone and
its vascular system in the equine hoof.” Her faculty mentor is
Dr. Hermann Bragulla, assistant professor of comparative
biomedical sciences.
Nanci Solis is a member of the Class of 2011 from Batesville,
Ark., and her project is entitled, “Evaluation of pelleted
sericea lespedeza supplementation following an initial deworming
bolus of copper oxide wire particles for control of
gastrointestinal nematodes in kids and lambs. Her faculty mentor
is Dr. James Miller, professor of epidemiology and community
health.
Kevin Ware is a member of the Class of 2010 from Little Rock,
Ark., and his project is entitled, “Examination of pathogenesis
of Francisella sp. (warm water fish strain) in tilapia
and tilapia head kidney macrophages in vitro and in vivo.” His
faculty mentor is Dr. John Hawke, associate professor of
veterinary microbiology and parasitology.
The recipients of the NIH Biomedical Research
Experience for Veterinary Students Awards and their
project titles are as follows:
Diana Babin is a member of the Class of 2010 from Gonzales,
La., and her project is entitled, “Determination of caprine
humoral antibody response against cholera toxin B expressed in a
transgenic plan vaccine.” Her faculty mentor is Dr. Philip Elzer,
professor of veterinary science and professor of microbiology
and parasitology.
Robert Blair is a member of the Class of 2010 from Miami, Fla.,
and his project is entitled, “The therapeutic effect and safety
of 1-methyl-D, L-tryptohan, in combination with IL12 gene
therapy, for treatment of tumors in mice.” His faculty mentor is
Dr. Shulin Li, professor in the Department of Comparative
Biomedical Sciences.
Julia Coutin is a member of the Class of 2010 from New Orleans,
La., and her project is entitled, “The topical effect of
Carprofen on the function of canine hepatic mitochondria.” Her
faculty mentor is Dr. Giselle Hosgood, professor of veterinary
surgery.
Ann Craig is a member of the Class of 2011 from Andover,
N.H., and her project is entitled, “Development of novel cell
culture system to obtain monkey neutrophils from bone marrow
cells.” Her faculty mentor is Dr. Samithamby Jeyaseelan,
assistant professor in the Department of Pathobiological
Sciences.
Natalie Wall Fowlkes is a
member of the Class of 2010 from West Monroe, La., and her
project is entitled, “Examining the expression of CXCL10 and its
receptor CXCR3 in leprosy type 1 reactions via
immunohistochemical staining.” Her faculty mentor is Dr. David
M. Scollard, adjunct professor of veterinary pathology.
Kim Gusman is a member of the Class of 2010 from Anaheim,
Calif., and her project is entitled, “The association of
muscular atrophy and neuropathy due to leprosy in the
armadillo.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Richard Truman, adjunct
professor of epidemiology and community health.
Alison Rodden Salmon is a
member of the Class of 2011 from Carlyle, Ill., and her project
is entitled, “The role of CD36 receptors on Circumvallate
papillae of Osborne-Mendel rats in increasing preference for and
intake of high fat diets.” Her faculty mentor is Dr. H. Douglas
Braymer, professor at the Pennington
Diana Tran is a member of the Class of 2011 from Houma, La.,
and her project is entitled, “Aged dendritic cells in primates
demonstrate a decreased ability to present
encephalitozoon cuniculi
and the effect of IL-15 administration on CTL response.” Her
faculty mentor is Dr. Hollie Hale Donze, assistant professor in
the LSU Biological Sciences Department.
The recipient of the Comparative Gastroenterology Society fellowship is:
Josh Hobbs is a member of the Class of 2010 from Cave Springs, Ark.,
and his project is entitled, “Doppler analysis of
gastrointestinal blood flow in dogs: Investigations in food
allergic patients and role of glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) in
postprandial splanchnic vasodilation.” His faculty mentors are
Drs. Frederic Gaschen, associate professor of companion animal
medicine, and Lorrie Gaschen, associate professor of veterinary
radiology.
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Visitors learn about the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s equine treadmill and horse anatomy as part of the annual Pets & Vets summer program. |
The LSU
School of Veterinary Medicine is hosting Pets & Vets, its
annual children’s educational program, beginning June 3 and
ending June 26. Pets & Vets features various topics regarding
veterinary medicine and basic information about pet and animal
care. All presentations are free and open to the public, but
pre-registration is requested. The program is open to all
children ages 6 and up, unless otherwise noted on the schedule.
Parents are also invited to attend the presentations with their
children. The 2008 Pets & Vets schedule is as follows:
10:00 a.m.
Bird Brains: Dummy or Einstein
11:00 a.m.
Choosing and Caring for Your Pet
10:00
a.m.
Learning to Walk Again: Physical Rehab for Pets
11:00 a.m.
Tour of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital
10:00
a.m. How
Farm Animals Help People
11:00 a.m.
The Wonderful World of Cows
10:00
a.m.
Careers in Veterinary Medicine (ages 9 and up)
11:00 a.m.
Alligators, Louisiana’s State Reptile
10:00
a.m.
Raptors
11:00 a.m.
Dogs Have a Lot of Guts
10:00
a.m. A
Day in the Life of an Equine Technician
11:00 a.m.
My What Big (Horse) Teeth You Have
10:00
a.m.
Anatomy and Locomotion of the Horse
11:00 a.m.
How Pets Help Us
All Pets
& Vets courses are held at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine
on Skip Bertman Drive. For more information, or to register a
child, contact the School at (225) 578-9900.
LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Presents Five Staff Awards
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine presented awards to five staff members at a spring reception on May 1.
 |
| Dean Peter F. Haynes congratulates the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s 2008 Staff Award recipients shown from left to right: Leslie Talley (Administrative Support Award), Lisa Roundtree (Outstanding Achievement Award), Jackie Murray (Academic Support Award), Kendra Shultz (Technical Management Award), and Cecelia “C.K.” Koon (Operations Management Award). |
Lisa Roundtree, lab animal assistant technician (dermatology) in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award, which recognizes an employee from all SVM staff categories, who exhibits superior work habits and who gives extra contributions to the School. Roundtree was commended for her 17 years of service to the LSU SVM and her dependability, communication skills, willingness to help others, and perseverance.
The Administrative Support Award was presented to Leslie Talley, associate clinical specialist (equine) in the VTH&C. This award recognizes an employee for excellence in support in all areas of administration. Talley was commended for her 20 years of service to the LSU SVM and her dedication, loyalty, initiative, and efficiency.
Jackie Murray, an administrative coordinator in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, won the Academic Support Award for excellence in providing academic support to the School’s faculty. Murray was commended for her 25 years of service and her dependability and attention to detail, as well as her computer and communication skills.
The Operations Management Award was presented to Ceclia “C.K.” Koon, lab animal technician in the Division of Laboratory Animal Medicine. The award recognizes outstanding management support in all areas of the School’s operations. Koon was commended for her 18 years of service and her ability to supervise others, positive attitude, and leadership abilities.
Kendra Shultz, a research associate in the Department of Pathobiological Sciences, received the Technical Management Award for her outstanding technical service to the School. Shultz was commended for her seven years of service and her dependability, enthusiasm, and resourcefulness.
LSU Veterinary School Acquires Mobile Emergency Response Unit with Help from the American Kennel Club
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| The LSU SVM's new Mobile Emergency Response Unit |
In June 2006, the American Kennel Club
Companion Animal Recovery (AKC CAR) established the American
Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery Emergency Response Unit
Fund. In response to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the
Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (LSU
SVM) partnered with the AKC CAR to develop a mobile response
unit that can be used to respond to any natural disaster in
which small animals are left injured or abandoned. The AKC CAR
is providing partial funding for the purchase and equipping of a
mobile unit. The LSU SVM is providing a vehicle to pull the
unit, staffing for the unit, and necessary supplies.
This unit will be used for emergency response
and will serve as an active component of an integrated system
for responding to natural disasters. This unit will also
significantly enhance the ability of the LSU SVM to provide
immediate care to injured, dehydrated, or otherwise debilitated
animals.
During the interim, when the mobile unit is not being used for disasters, it will be used as part of the Southeast Louisiana Spay/Neuter/Animal and Community Wellness student elective to provide spay and neuter services to participating animal shelters that do not have surgical facilities.
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine opened its 21st International Exhibition on Animals in Art on Saturday, March 29. Dr. Peter F. Haynes, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, and members of the SVM Art Show Committee welcomed more than 200 guests into the Veterinary Medicine Library for a first look at the exhibition.
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| Sue Loubiere, librarian emeritus, was recognized for her 19 years of service to the Animals in Art Exhibition. Former and current deans attending the event are Dean Emeritus Michael G. Groves (dean from (2000-2006), Dean Emeritus William L. Jenkins (1988-1993), Sue Loubiere, Dr. David L. Huxsoll (1995-1999), and Dean Peter F. Haynes (2007-present). |
Two hundred and two artists from 40 states, Canada, and Sweden submitted 446 entries for the show. Seventy-five pieces are featured in the exhibition, which continues through April 27 in the Veterinary Medicine Library. Judge and juror for this year’s exhibition is Thomas Livesay, executive director of the LSU Museum of Art. He has served as director of the Whatcom Museum of History & Art in Bellingham, Wash.; director of the Museum of New Mexico in Santa Fe, N.M.; assistant director of the Dallas Museum of Art in Dallas, Texas; director of the Amarillo Art Center in Amarillo, Texas; and director of the Longview Museum & Art Center in Longview, Texas. Livesay received his BFA in 1968 and his MFA in 1972, both from the University of Texas in Austin. He did his post-graduate work in Institute in Arts Administration at Harvard University in 1978. In 2006, Livesay was placed on the Centennial Honor Roll, which recognized him by the American Association of Museums as one of 100 professionals “who have worked during the past 100 years to innovate, improve and expand how museums in the United States serve the public.” In 2007, he received the Edgar L. Hewett Award from the New Mexico Association of Museums. Livesay selected the pieces displayed in the exhibition and 16 award recipients.
Artists in attendance were Linda Ardoin, Baton Rouge, La.; Marsha Barkemeyer, Baton Rouge, La.; Carol Behrmann, Baton Rouge, La.; Bill Bryant, Natchitoches, La.; Monica Freeman, Baton Rouge, La.; Frankie Gould, Livonia, La.; Mary Heckman, Baton Rouge, La.; Elayne Kuehler, Baton Rouge, La.; Brenda LaFleur, Lake Charles, La.; Ralph Marino, Baton Rouge, La.; Joe Panella, Yonkers, N.Y.; Margaret Rice, Baton Rouge, La.; Dr. Ashley Stokes, Baton Rouge, La.; Dana Territo, Baton Rouge, La.; Lydia Wheeler, Baton Rouge, La.; and Zane Zeringue, Norco, La.
The $1,000 Best in Show award went to Monica Freeman from Baton Rouge, La., for her stone and steothite sculpture entitled Feline. Dr. Janis Audin, Chicago, Ill., editor-in-chief of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, chose Jane Cozart’s pastel, entitled Woman with Hounds, to appear on a future cover of the journal. The People’s Choice Award will be named at a later date.
Judge’s Awards were presented for the following pieces:
· “Spectral Chihuahuas,” Dede LaRue, Denver, Colo., mixed media sculpture;
· “Big Boys,” Danni Balitsaris-Shobe, Baton Rouge, La., acrylic;
· “Played Out,” Berry Fritz, McAllen, Texas, oil and linen;
· “Tess,” Margaret Rice, Baton Rouge, La., oil on board; and
· “Mangrove Ibis,” Suzie Seerey-Lester, Osprey, Fla., acrylic.
Honorable Mention Awards were presented for the following pieces:
· “Time to be Moving On,” Eva Stanley, Loveland, Colo., bronze;
· “Sunrise in the Woods,” Victor Medina, Cold Spring, N.M., photography;
· “On Target,” Abby Ripley, New Milford, Conn., photography;
· “Osprey,” Dorie Petrochko, Oxford, Conn., watercolor/gouache;
· “Grande Aigrette,” Ernie Fournet, New Iberia, La., acrylic;
· “Striding Tiger,” D.L. Engle, Valinda, Calif., bronze;
· “The Yogi,” Louise Peterson, Guffey, Colo., bronze;
· “Mustang I,” Dorothy Shepherd, Sunland, Calif., Chinese brush/ink;
· “Black and White Tourists Visit Egypt,” Margot Splane, Timmons, Ontario, Canada, handpulled seriagraph; and
· “Great Grey Owl and Moth,” Cathy Sheeter, Boulder, Colo., scratchboard.
Members of the SVM Art Show Committee are Gretchen Morgan, chair; Dean Peter F. Haynes, Dr. Becky Adcock, Dean Emeritus Michael G. Groves, Ginger Guttner, Christine Mitchell, Frederick Ortner, Michael D. Robinson, Nadine Carter Russell, Dr. David Senior, Tutta Vetter, and Denise Westphal.
Sue Loubiere, librarian emeritus, was recognized for her 19 years of service to the International Animals in Art Exhibition. She was presented with an engraved silver tray by the former and current deans of the School of Veterinary Medicine. During her more than 30 years as librarian, Ms. Loubiere worked for four of the School of Veterinary Medicine’s five deans.
The exhibition is open
to the public during library hours and will run through April
27. All of the art pieces are for sale, and a 20% commission on
each sale goes to the School of Veterinary Medicine. For more
information, please contact Gretchen Morgan, coordinator of
alumni & public programs, at 225-578-9826 or
gmorgan@lsu.edu.
Hill’s LSU SVM Great Rover Road Run Attracts Over 260 Participants
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| And they’re off! People and pets participate in the 2008 School of Veterinary Medicine’s Great Rover Road Run. |
Two hundred and sixty-one people participated in the Hill’s 15th Annual Great Rover Road Run on March 29 at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine. One hundred and ninety people participated in the one mile fun run/walk, and one hundred and six people ran in the 5K. Once again, this year’s major sponsor was Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
Jonathan Gillis (age 23) was the best overall male runner in the 5K run with a time of 17:36, and Natalie Gillis (age 25) was the best overall female with a time of 19:44. The youngest runner in the 5K run was Shelby Granier (age 9) with a time of 30:28. The oldest runner was Dick Findlay (age 86), who finished with a time of 44:54. In the one mile fun run/walk, Ajax, a 16-pound rat terrier, and his owner Benoit Bordelon were the fastest overall with a time of 5:25.
Proceeds benefited the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The mission of the Hill’s Great Rover Road Run is to spread awareness about the importance of proper nutrition and exercise for animals and the negative side effects of animal obesity. Puppies minus pounds are better!
In September 2007, Max, a three-year-old Boston Terrier, had his retina reattached by a veterinary ophthalmologist at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine by Dr. Eric S. Storey, assistant professor of ophthalmology.
.jpg) |
| Image of Max’s reattached retina. |
“Some dog breeds, such as Boston Terriers, Bichons and Shih tzus, are predisposed to retinal detachments,” said Dr. Storey. In Max’s case, this was his second retinal detachment. The first retinal detachment in his right eye was chronic, and the retina had several tears. This second detachment in his left eye was not as severe, making him a good candidate for a successful reattachment.
The procedure is done with the dog lying on his back looking at the ceiling. “An incision is made in the sclera, and three 20-gauge holes or ‘ports’ are made,” said Dr. Storey. “A tube is inserted in one port to deliver fluid that maintains a normal pressure inside the eye. The second port is for a fiber optic light, and the third is for the surgical tools.” The binocular indirect ophthalmomicroscope (BIOM) is a lens system attached to the microscope that allows focus and orientation inside the eye for the surgeon.
“The first step is to remove the vitreous gel, which is usually cloudy and easy to see in these cases,” said Dr. Storey. “The detached retina is usually fluttering in the fluid so it takes great care not to remove the retina with the vitreous.” The back of the eye is shaped like a cup, and the retina is often only attached to the optic nerve in the bottom of the “cup.” The second step is to fill the detached retina beginning right over the optic nerve with perfluorocarbon fluid, which weighs down the retina and lays it against the sclera. The eye is completely filled with perfluorocarbon, which displaces all water outside of the eye through the infusion canula. “Next, a diode laser is used to burn the retina and choroid (the middle, vascular coat of the eye, between the sclera and the retina),” said Dr. Storey. “This makes a scar that will adhere the retina to the choroid over the upcoming days and weeks.”
Silicone oil is then pumped into the back of the eye where it floats on the perfluorocarbon fluid and fills the back of the eye from the lens down. A “flute” needle is placed within the pool of perfluorocarbon liquid and as the eye is pressurized, the perfluorocarbon liquid goes up the needle and drains out of the eye. The last step is to close the three incisions without inducing any bleeding.
“Max was a good candidate for retinal reattachment because the detachment was partial, spontaneous, and had only recently occurred,” said Dr. Storey. “If the retina is partially detached or only detached for a few days or weeks, the reattachment is more likely to be successful, and the dog will very likely be able to see again.” Partial detachments in the top half of the retina always progress to a complete retinal detachment over time, and this type of retinal surgery can intervene to prevent blindness where other techniques fail. In cases where a complete retinal detachment is weeks to months old, the rods and cones within the eye can degrade, causing the return of vision to take longer. In very prolonged cases, vision may never return despite reattachment of the retina.
It is more common to see cases where the retina is detached due to other eye problems. In these cases, the detachment is often a result of cataracts or develops after cataract surgery. “Though these cases are more complex, and the success rate is lower, these animals would remain blind without retinal reattachment surgery,” said Dr. Storey. “One of our future goals with retinal surgery is to be able to treat horses with reattachment surgery the same way we treat dogs.”
To determine the success of a reattachment, Dr. Storey uses a maze created out of interlocking foam walls. The dog is sent through the maze to determine how well his vision has been restored. “In Max’s case, his vision continues to be fabulous,” said Dr. Storey.
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| Gretchen Henry, a third-year veterinary student, explains to a group of Open House visitors how the School of Veterinary Medicine’s equine treadmill is used for research. |
A self-guided tour took visitors through the Veterinary Medicine Building where students, faculty and staff provided information and exhibits on various facets of the veterinary medicine curriculum. There were 70 exhibits, and many were interactive, including a bone pit, where visitors could unearth bones, and a radiology exhibit that asked visitors to identify radiographs (X-rays) and CAT scans.
Special features included tours of the Cancer Treatment Unit, the equine treadmill, the underwater treadmill, and the petting zoo. Many children brought their teddy bears and stuffed animals to Teddy Bear Repair, where veterinary students performed “surgery” on the toys and repaired them for their owners. There were also animal demonstrations, including a parade of breeds for both dogs and horses, as well as education presentations about common household toxins and veterinary education and careers. Also participating in Open House were some of the School’s educational animals, including Morgan, a red tailed hawk, and Squirt, a screech owl.An adult bald eagle was presented to the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana on January 3, 2008, after being found on the ground in Lafourche Parish and unable to fly. Examination by veterinarians at the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana revealed that the eagle was dehydrated but had no other apparent injuries.
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A rehabilitated bald eagle was released at the
Brownell Memorial Park & Carillon Tower in Morgan City, La., on February
20. (Click photo to play video [25Mb] of release.) |
Extensive diagnostic tests revealed some intestinal parasites, as well as a possible fracture of the right clavicle. The radiographs (x-rays) also showed that this eagle was illegally shot at some time, but it is unclear whether that was related to its current presentation. After medical stabilization, an exploratory surgery was performed to determine if the clavicle was indeed fractured and to repair it if needed. The surgery did not reveal a fracture, and the eagle recovered well from the procedure. By January 24, 2008, the surgical incision had healed, and the eagle was responding well to supportive therapy needed to give it strength. The eagle was transferred to Wings of
Hope Wildlife Sanctuary for rehabilitation and flight training. The eagle has remained there and is now ready for release.
The eagle was released at the Brownell Memorial Park & Carillon Tower (3359 Hwy 70) in Morgan City, La., on Wednesday, February 20 at 10:30 a.m. Dr. Javier Nevarez, director of the LSU SVM’s Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana, opened the transport carrier and released the eagle, which quickly took to the sky.
On April 27, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine will host its Small Animal Medicine Symposium, which this year will focus on infectious diseases of dogs and cats. This event is made possible by a generous grant from Pfizer Animal Health and will feature Dr. Edward Breitschwerdt, professor of internal medicine at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine as a guest speaker. Dr. Breitschwerdt will discuss the molecular diagnosis of infectious diseases, persistent blood-borne infection, vector-borne infections and canine bartonellosis.
Other topics will include canine ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis, methicillin-resistant staphylococci, mycoses, canine leptospirosis, endocarditis, American trypanosomiasis and challenging infectious disease cases. Speakers from the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine are Drs. Mark Acierno, assistant professor of companion animal medicine; Susan Eddlestone, assistant professor of veterinary medicine; Frederic Gaschen, associate professor of companion animal medicine and small animal medicine service chief; Amy Grooters, associate professor of companion animal medicine; Romain Pariaut, assistant professor of veterinary cardiology; Kirk Ryan, assistant professor of veterinary medicine; Keith Strickland, clinical associate professor of veterinary cardiology; Joseph Taboada, professor of veterinary medicine and associate dean for student and academic affairs; and Deidre Vaughan, dermatology resident.
Eight hours of continuing education credit or 0.8 CEU credits (one hour equals 0.1 CE unit) will be earned for this course. Certification forms will be provided for participants to complete credit hours earned.
Thanks to an educational grant from Pfizer Animal Health, sole sponsor of the 2008 Small Animal Internal Medicine Symposium, registrations received by April 23, 2008, will be complimentary. An administrative fee of $25 will be charged for registrations received after April 23 and for on-site registrations. Lunch, coffee breaks and proceedings are included. Cancellations should be made to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine in a timely manner as space is limited.
For registration information, contact the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine at (225) 578-9900, or go to the SVM website at www.vetmed.lsu.edu. The registration brochure is available for download on the Continuing Education page.
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine will host its 26th Annual Open House on Saturday, March 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. This year’s theme is Veterinarians in the Community: Global Ambassadors. Open House 2008 is an opportunity for everyone in the family to explore the fantastic world of veterinary medicine and the latest developments in animal health care, welfare, and research.
A self-guided tour will take visitors through the Veterinary Medicine Building where students, faculty and staff will provide information and exhibits on various facets of the veterinary medicine curriculum. In addition, the Cancer Treatment Unit, the gross anatomy laboratory, intensive care units, surgery suites and radiology suites will be featured on the tour, along with other areas of the veterinary hospital, like the underwater treadmill for dogs and the equine treadmill. There will also be animal demonstrations, such as a parade of breeds of both dogs and horses.
Equine treadmill demonstrations will be held throughout the day behind the Equine Research Building. Also continuing throughout the day are the companion animal underwater treadmill demonstrations at the CARe-Center and tours of the Cancer Treatment Unit in the Small Animal Clinic.
Emelie McClellan and Cynthia Albert, third-year veterinary students and event chairs; and SVM faculty and staff will be available for live interviews throughout the day.
For more information, call Gretchen Morgan at (225) 578-9900 or visit the Open House page at http://www.vetmed.lsu.edu/open_house.htm.
LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Hosts Annual Run Benefiting the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is hosting the Hill’s 15th Annual Great Rover Road Run on Saturday, March 29. The Hill’s Great Rover Road Run consists of a 5K Road Run and a one mile Fun Run/Walk with Rover. This year’s major sponsor is Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
The 5K run begins at 8:00 a.m., and the one mile Fun Run begins at 9:00 a.m. at the School on Skip Bertman Drive. The scenic course starts at the School and winds through the LSU campus.
Every participant will get a t-shirt and "doggy bag." Water and refreshments will be provided for all participants. There will be also be a low cost dog wash available after the races.
Awards will be given to the first-, second-, and third-place winners in the different age categories for the 5K run and to the winners of the different categories for the one mile Fun Run. Canine competitions after the races will include Best Dressed Pet and Best Owner/Pet Look Alike, IQ test, longest tail contest, and more! There is a $5 entry fee for these events for non-race participants.
Several local non-profit organizations will be present passing out information, and clubs will be set up to sell different items such as water bottles, gourmet dog treats, bandanas.
To pre-register, please contact the School at 225-578-9900 to request a registration form, or click here for more information and to download the registration form. You may also register on-site on the day of the run. The pre-registration fee for the 5K run and the one-mile Fun Run is $15 each, or $20 to participate in both races (pre-registration deadline is March 16). The registration fee on race day is $17 each for the 5K run and the Fun Run, or $24 for both races. If you pre-register, you can pick up your pre-race packet in the lobby of the School of Veterinary Medicine on March 23 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Dog participants must be on a six-foot leash (not a retractable leash). Please do not bring female dogs if they are in heat. Dog participants must have proof of current vaccination and may be excluded if they are aggressive. No dogs will be allowed on the 5K course with competitive runners.
Proceeds benefit the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The mission of the Hill’s Great Rover Road Run is to spread awareness about the importance of proper nutrition and exercise for animals and the negative side effects of animal obesity. Puppies minus pounds are better!
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