fall 2006

Cornell Veterinary Medicine

Conservation medicine

Joining Forces in Conservation and Medicine The Wildlife Conservation Society and Cornell

By Metta Winter

“The WCS-Cornell joint residencies provide all the advantages of a university-based medical residency and the large caseloads of a diverse, mixed-zoological practice involved with both captive and free-ranging animals from around the world.”

Contents wo new residency programs in zoolog- Tical medicine and wildlife pathology Partnerships with the Wildlife Conservation Society: merge the academic medical strengths Residencies in wildlife medicine and pathology 1 and scientific rigor of Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine with the Bioconservation in Zambia 7 applied expertise and diverse wildlife col- Leadership in clinical programs 10 lections of the zoological parks of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). Students of excellence 14 Both the sponsors and prospective par- Construction update 18 ticipants are impassioned about the potential of the dual residency programs. Dean to step down 19 The collaboration, a rare partnership between a leading institute of higher edu- Veterinarians at the WCS Wildlife Health News briefs 20 overlapping interests and missions of Center at the Bronx Zoo examine a baby cation and a major international nongov- Cornell and WCS in the areas of wildlife Geoffrey’s tamarin. Gifts to the college 22 ernmental organization, emphasizes the health and conservation. End Note 24 core concept of one world, one health. “I have long hoped to meld the talents The residencies, announced recently, of our two organizations to train the next are among several collaborative pro- generation of leaders in wildlife health,” grams being undertaken by the two New says Robert A. Cook, chief veterinarian On the cover: Giraffes at the Bronx Zoo. This page: peacocks at the Bronx Zoo. York institutions. The partner projects and vice president, Wildlife Conserva- © 2006 by Jesse Winter are a natural extension of the strong tion Society. “With the initiation of the

Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 1 While at Cornell, residents will com- plete course work relating to the biology, husbandry, and medical management of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Course work and rounds will be reinforced by clinical experience— about two-thirds of this experience will be working in the exotic and wildlife medicine service at the Cornell Univer- sity Hospital for Animals, where 1,400 cases are treated annually. The caseload is diverse and challenging, says Kollias— referring veterinarians from the North- east send the most complex cases to Cornell. On a given day, residents might find themselves using radiation therapy James Morrisey discusses a case in to treat cancer in a hedgehog or per- Cornell’s exotic and wildlife medicine clinic with visiting veterinary student extern forming complex orthopedic surgery on Vanessa Alerte from the National At the Bronx Zoo, gelada baboons enjoying the day and (above, right) a lesser a bald eagle that has been shot. Veterinary School of Toulouse, France. adjutant stork out for a walk. During the other third of their clinical experience at Cornell, residents will assist Kollias and Abou-Madi in caring “One of the most interesting and satisfying parts of practicing here is the tremendous diversity—there’s no such thing as routine.” for the 500 animals and 125 species at the Rosamond-Gifford Zoo in nearby residency programs we have made a large caseloads of a diverse, mixed joint residency because of its excellence Syracuse, New York. The zoo is involved major commitment to the future health zoological practice involved with captive in academic wildlife and zoological med- in a number of Species Survival Plans— of people, domestic animals, and wild- and free-ranging animals from around icine curricula, one of the leading pro- in collaboration with the Association of life—what we refer to as ‘one world, the world,” says Paul Calle, senior veteri- grams in the country,” says Calle. Zoos and Aquariums—including those one health.’” narian in the Department of Clinical Zoological medicine residents will for the red panda, Asian elephant , snow Alfonso Torres, the college’s associate Care at the WCS Wildlife Health Sci- learn from numerous Cornell experts, leopard, and Humbolt penguin. dean for veterinary public policy and ences Division. including veterinarians George Kollias, “The residents will have broad medical executive director of the Animal Health who is director of Cornell’s Wildlife knowledge with strong clinical experi- Diagnostic Laboratory says: “These resi- The Clinical Residency Health Program and board-certified in ence in their toolbox by the time they dencies offer a remarkable experience This past July, Timothy Georoff became zoological medicine, and program leave for the WCS component of their and will result in the formation of profes- the first veterinarian in the Cornell Uni- instructors Noha Abou-Madi, board-cer- program,” says Abou-Madi. sionals who will have worked with and versity/Wildlife Conservation Society tified in zoological medicine, and James learned from the best of science and the Zoological Medicine Residency Morrisey, board-certified in companion best of professional practice—something Program. and exotic animal medicine. that no other institutions provide.” “This is a tremendous opportunity for Residents also will have the opportu- Each residency is a three-year program me,” says Georoff, who had completed an nity to work side-by-side with Cornell with time in Ithaca and New York City. internship at the Tulsa Zoo and Living specialists in epidemiology, imaging, At Cornell, immersed in the academic pathology, surgery, anesthesia, ophthal- In the Bronx George Kollias examines a sloth at the Museum. “I’m looking forward to all that Rosamond-Gifford Zoo as Stacy Choczynski, environment of the college and univer- the terrific faculty and staffs at Cornell mology, dermatology, internal medicine, In New York City, the zoological medi- Cornell DVM Class of 2008, looks on. sity, residents will receive extensive train- and WCS have to teach me,” says orthopedics, reproduction, and other cine residents will practice what they’ve (left) A zebra at the Bronx Zoo. ing in their veterinary clinical specialties Georoff. “I’ll benefit from the tremen- fields. For example, this fall, in collabora- learned in the five WCS zoological and will interact with basic scientists; at dous amount of experience they’ve had, tion with Alex Travis, associate professor parks—the Bronx, Central Park, Queens, the large, urban facilities of the WCS, all the places they’ve trained, and the of genetics and reproduction, Kollias and and Prospect Park zoos, and New York they will have an enormous collection of knowledge they bring from their many Abou-Madi are introducing a new Aquarium. Each has a distinct collection wildlife with which to work as they hone different backgrounds.” course, Conservation Medicine. Students (the Queens Zoo has primarily North diagnostic and practical expertise. will explore the concepts of free-ranging American species; the aquarium mostly “The WCS-Cornell joint residencies In Ithaca and captive wildlife biodiversity conser- aquatic animals) and size—from more provide all the advantages of a univer- “WCS chose to collaborate with Cornell’s vation, as well as sustainable develop- than 4,000 animals at the Bronx Zoo to sity-based medical residency and the College of Veterinary Medicine on this ment issues that relate to wildlife. 750 animals at the Prospect Park Zoo.

2 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 3 A Wolf’s guenon (left) and a cheetah (below), Veterinary Programs. In New York City, residency at Cornell before beginning tise, including infectious diseases, can- resident animals at the Bronx Zoo. the residents will have the opportunity to her work at WCS. cers of blood cells, ocular diseases, interact with the field veterinarians The residency will provide residents poultry pathology, laboratory-animal working on these projects and with other with exceptional training for a broad pathology, identification of parasites, prominent conservationists at WCS range of career opportunities in veteri- wildlife diseases, and reproductive headquarters at the Bronx Zoo. nary pathology and will teach the skills pathology. Residents also will consult great position to apply what is learned needed for achieving certification by with Cornell faculty members in other from zoological species in zoos and The Pathology Residency the American College of Veterinary departments who specialize in other aquariums to field situations where there Pathologists. areas, such as dermatologic diseases, are animal and human disease issues.” Thanks to new technologies, the planet is diseases of fish, or liver disease. The potential of comparative medicine shrinking, and the way in which animals At Cornell “We use a case-based, comparative is a cornerstone of the Cornell-WCS and people now move around the globe Pathology residents will spend the first approach to give our residents a solid collaboration, explains Donald F. Smith, allows a disease that occurs in one region two years on the Cornell campus, focus- understanding of how to diagnose dean of the college: “The Cornell and to spread rapidly to another—this ing on the comparative anatomy and dis- disease in any setting and any animal WCS programs complement each other includes not only novel or emerging dis- eases of domestic animals. They will gain species, whether it’s a horse or a wom- in their strengths.” For example, Cornell eases but also common ones like foot- additional experience from cases involv- bat,” explains Buckles. has the best group of reproductive schol- and-mouth disease. ing the animals that the college’s Wildlife At Cornell the residents will see a wide ars in any veterinary college. Residents “Disease outbreaks can be national “One of the most interesting and satis- Health Program veterinarians treat in the variety of cases from a wide range of ani- will study with faculty members who security issues, and veterinary patholo- fying parts of practicing here is the tre- Cornell University Hospital for Animals, mals. They will participate in both the have expertise in areas from genomics gists are the experts who know how to mendous diversity—there’s no such thing where referring veterinarians send the post-mortem service and biopsy service. through clinical reproduction. WCS has handle them,” says Elizabeth Buckles, as routine,” says WCS’s Calle. most challenging cases from around the On any given day on post mortem, the active captive-breeding programs in assistant professor of pathology in the Residents are headquartered at the lenged on both ends of the scale, as med- state and region, and at the Rosamond- resident might need to determine the hundreds of species—including gorilla, college’s Department of Biomedical newly expanded 32,000-square-foot ication must be administered to animals Gifford Zoo in Syracuse. cause of mortality in a herd of dairy cat- radiated tortoises, and birds of paradise. Sciences. Veterinary pathologists are Wildlife Health Center, the primary care such as a 2,500-pound giraffe, a 30-gram While they are at Cornell residents will tle, the cause of death of a pet dog or cat, Residents will learn to become adept at increasingly recognized as the front line facility for more than 20,000 animals in lizard, and all sizes in between. study with the six anatomic pathologists or the cause of an abortion of an equine using different types of contraceptive in disease surveillance in wildlife popula- the five WCS zoological parks. They will Opportunities for learning abound. on the veterinary faculty, each of whom fetus. On surgical service they will exam- techniques to manage reproduction to tions, ever on the lookout for emerging work with four board-certified zoo prac- Because the care these animals receive is is board certified by the American Col- ine tissues submitted from clinicians ensure the best genetic diversity of a or reemerging diseases that impact not titioners and three full-time wildlife outstanding, many live long lives and lege of Veterinary Pathologists—Drs. around the state. First-year residents will population. only wildlife but domestic animal health pathologists on all cases of routine and develop diseases of aging such as diabe- Ana Alcaraz, Elizabeth Buckles, Sean see approximately 75 necropsy cases and At Cornell, zoological medicine resi- and human health, as well. emergency medical and surgical care. A tes or cancer. “There are many animals McDonough, Bradley Njaa, Rachel 750 biopsies; second-year residents will dents can engage with experts in veteri- This past July, Melissa Czajkowski typical day might include attending to a 40 years of age or older—gorillas, turtles, Peters, and Don Schlafer. They represent see at least 100–125 necropsies and nary medicine, biomedical sciences, and became the first veterinarian in the new neonate gazelle calf in intensive care at birds, crocodilians,” says Calle. “We man- a variety of interests and areas of exper- 1,000 biopsies. basic sciences to study the biological sys- Cornell University/Wildlife Conservation the hospital in the Bronx Zoo, driving to age arthritis in every species from lions Society Anatomic Pathology Residency Coney Island to conduct an eye exam on to tigers to bears.” tems and health needs of diverse species throughout the world. The Wildlife Program. Czajkowski had just completed a walrus and treat a shell wound on a sea In the 17 years that Calle has worked the first two years of her pathology turtle, then on to Central Park to check with WCS, he’s seen zoological medicine Conservation Society has more than 400 field conservation on a lethargic macaque, returning to the mature into an independent profession. (far left) Senior Bronx to monitor the progress of an “We live in a world of vanishing wild projects in 60 Veterinarian anorexic bear, perform a surgical repair lands—there is more and more conflict nations—the wildlife Bonnie Raphael health components of and Heidi of a laceration on a monkey, or take for space and resources among domestic Zurawka, a senior these projects are radiographs of a wild hawk with an animals, wild animals, and people,” he resident, examine injured wing. Resourcefulness is chal- says. “Zoological veterinarians are in a provided by the WCS a turtle in the WCS Health Sciences Field Wildlife Health Center at the Bronx Zoo. (left) Beth Buckles reviews a pathology case at Cornell.

5 Pathology resident Melissa Czajkowski at Cornell.

cases each year. They will focus on the Biodiversity comparative anatomy, histology, and dis- eases of hundreds of different species. “At Cornell, if a resident is interested in brains or kidneys or livers, they have Conservation access to experts in each of those organ systems,” McAloose explains. “And at the WCS in New York, they have access to experts in birds or frogs or gorillas.” in Zambia By Metta Winter Residents also will become familiar with issues in relationship to animal health and disease transmission in zoo- logical collections and wildlife. Most zoo Food Security Looks Like the Answer exhibits consist of natural groupings of animals (Gelada baboons, Rock Hyrax, and Nubian ibex in the African Plains Since the caseload is so diverse, importance when wildlife pathologist exhibit at the Bronx Zoo, for example), explains Buckles, the faculty emphasize a Dee McAloose began her specialty train- so there are issues of herd health to A grant for a program to increase food security and economic comparative approach to pathology—the ing more than a decade ago. However, study. Because zoo animals are often out- self-sufficiency in Zambia is the flagship project for the international residents must understand the basic the occurrence of a disease outbreak in doors, pathologists and residents also field component of the new partnership between the college and principles of disease pathogenesis and the late 1990s changed that. It was her must be vigilant for infectious diseases of tissue reaction to injury and then apply predecessor as head of the WCS Depart- native and migratory wildlife that could the Wildlife Conservation Society. those principles to diagnose specific dis- ment of Pathology, Tracy McNamara, impact animals in the collection. eases in individual animals. Residents Cornell DVM ’80, who pursued and Pathology residents also will learn n 1970, 6,000 black rhinos roamed the lush On January 1, Cornell became a key learn how to collect tissues to send for identified West Nile virus as the cause of how vital vigilance is to preserving ILuangwa Valley, Zambia’s most valued partner in the ongoing venture, with a further laboratory testing (bacteriology, bird deaths in New York City in 1999. endangered species—many of the 4,000 wildlife area. By the late 1980s, they were $1.2 million grant from the United States virology, parasitology, toxicology) and West Nile virus was subsequently recog- animals at the Bronx Zoo are among almost completely exterminated from the Agency for International Development how to recognize diseases with potential nized as the cause of human illnesses and endangered species, including, for area. The fate of Luangwa elephants is no (USAID) to support research for the pro- consequences to herd health or human deaths occurring at the same time. example, 100 Kihansi spray toads, half better. In the last 35 years, the number of gram. Under leadership from the college, health. Case work is augmented by a “As wildlife pathologists we are trained the known number in the world. The elephants in the valley has decreased from a dozen Cornell scientists will help WCS variety of rounds and journal clubs to to identify emerging or novel diseases as residents will contribute to documenting 90,000 to only 15,000. Each year between and community participants in Zambia help hone diagnostic skills. Additionally well as common ones. Thus we were able diseases in exotic animal and wildlife 3,000 and 4,000 animals in the Luangwa determine how to optimize the promise there are a variety of opportunities to to correctly diagnose a disease that was species—even incidental ones that may region—antelopes, elephants, lions, buffalo, of the COMACO model, increasing the interact with clinical faculty. While on new to the Western Hemisphere and to not have caused death—for which wildebeest, leopard, and hyenas—fall prey chances that both the animals and the biopsy duty, the residents meet daily with alert others across the country to West limited information presently exists. to the guns and wire snares of farmers. humans of southern Africa will thrive. clinicians to discuss cases of patients in Nile virus in time for them to implement Bi-monthly the residents will meet Why? Between 20 and 60 percent of the The USAID grant is the result of a pro- the Cornell University Hospital for Ani- protocols and practices to protect ani- with veterinary, clinical, and laboratory- 17,000 families living in this valley regularly posal written jointly by scientists from mals. During monthy tumor board, resi- mals and people,” McAloose says. animal pathologists and residents from don’t have enough to eat. When crops fail Cornell and WCS—Alexander Travis, dents and clinical and pathology faculty The enormous diversity at the WCS’s the Animal Medical Center, Memorial due to the region’s intermittent droughts, farmers revert to poaching, assistant professor of reproductive biol- meet to discuss clinical management and zoological parks will offer endless oppor- Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Albert which becomes the only dependable means of putting food on the table. But ogy at the college’s Baker Institute for diagnosis of cancer; monthly zoo and tunities to wildlife pathology residents Einstein College of Medicine, Pfizer Inc., that situation is changing thanks to Community Markets for Conservation Animal Health; Alfonso Torres, the wildlife rounds provide opportunity for during the third year of their residency, and other hospitals and laboratories to (COMACO), a novel program that promotes biodiversity conservation by college’s associate dean for veterinary residents and clinical and pathology fac- spent at the Bronx Zoo. Under the review diagnostically challenging cases. helping to alleviate poverty and food insecurity. The program, which public policy and executive director of ulty to discuss special topics and cases supervision of three WCS pathologists— “I’m excited about the program,” says recently completed its pilot phase throughout 20,000 square kilometers of the Animal Health Diagnostic Labora- relevant to non-domestic animals. McAloose and Julie White (both certified McAloose. “Coming from Cornell, the the Luangwa watershed, is the brainchild of conservation zoologist Dale tory; WCS’s Lewis; and Steve Osofsky, by the American College of Veterinary residents will have excellent diagnostic Lewis, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) director for Zambia. Cornell DVM ’89, the WCS’s first senior At the WCS Pathologists) and Carlos Rodriguez— skills and hit the ground running when policy advisor for wildlife health in its Exotic animal and wildlife pathology residents will participate in nearly 1,000 they arrive here at WCS.” Field Veterinary Program. probably didn’t register on most people’s necropsy procedures performed on col- radar screens as a specialty of much lection animals, native wildlife, and field

6 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 7 “TheCornell-WCS collaboration in about various potential collaborations. It’s clear that the two most often-cited ance and incentives to farm in a sustain- that links the well-being of animals and It Takes a University the COMACO program will apply sci- During this time Osofsky became aware strategies for bolstering biodiversity con- able way, as well as membership in a humans. “Nothing is imposed from the A dozen Cornell faculty members, representing a broad range of expertise entific knowledge and technologies to of a new source of research funding sup- servation—law enforcement to control cooperative that transports and markets outside—the program is all about com- from disciplines across campus, play a solve basic nutritional and economic ported by USAID through the Sustain- poaching and ecotourism to bring in dol- their products in bulk at regional centers. munity participation and building host- primary role in the conservation project needs of people while preserving their able Agriculture and Natural Resource lars—haven’t always worked, Travis These factors combine to yield a much country capacity,” says Travis. in Zambia: wildlife and natural environmental Management Collaborative Research explains. “Anti-poaching patrols aren’t higher price than if the farmers had sold The project brings together the exper- Elizabeth Buckles, assistant professor of pathology in the Department of resources,” explains Torres. Cornell’s Support Program. effective by themselves if they set up a the products on their own. tise of faculty members from Cornell’s Biomedical Sciences (veterinary interest in the program, Torres adds, is “I was looking for university partners conflict between the interests of people In the pilot phase of the program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Col- pathology and disease diagnosis) also linked to its campus-wide initia- that would have the right mix of inter- and animals so that conservation is seen completed recently, farmers’ profits lege of Agricultural and Life Sciences— Duane Chapman, professor of applied tive to promote sustainability in its disciplinary expertise to assist the con- as an enemy instead of an asset,” he says. increased dramatically for two tradi- they will work in teams to examine and economics and management (natural resource economics and valuation) teaching, research, and outreach. servation project in Zambia,” Osofsky About ecotourism, thought 20 years ago tional commodities—chicken (by 80 per- address specific problems and evaluate Jon Conrad, professor of applied Osofsky acted as a linchpin—he was recalls. He quickly realized that Cornell to be the answer, he adds: “We’ve found cent) and rice (30 percent)—and one the results of adopted improvements. economics and management (economic in the right place at the right time to was the right choice. He also knew Tra- there aren’t always enough rich ecotour- newly introduced value-added product, The team’s first concentration is poul- evaluation of disease control and help introduce the COMACO program vis, who had done a wildlife conserva- ists to go around.” honey (67 percent). WCS surveys show try production. Most families in the husbandry changes) to his alma mater, which he had long tion preceptorship with him many years Lewis agrees. What’s needed, he says, that 60 to 80 percent of households par- Luangwa Valley have chickens, but the Parfait Eloundou-Enyegue, assistant encouraged to become more involved ago. Osofsky knew that Travis shared is a conservation model rooted in the ticipating in the pilot phase of the pro- vast majority of the poultry die before professor of development sociology (issues of gender, HIV, and in international wildlife conservation. his conviction about the leadership role sound economic principles that govern gram have had an increase in food sale. “Before we went to Zambia for our demographics) During the past year, Donald F. Smith, veterinarians could play in fostering an business: increasing production and mar- security. As a result of increased produc- planning visit in 2005, we thought New- John Fay, MBA ’04, consultant referred the Austin O. Hooey Dean of the col- interdisciplinary approach to biodiver- kets, decreasing transportation costs, and tion and food security, the amount of castle disease was responsible for most of through the Center for Sustainable lege, and Robert A. Cook, WCS chief sity conservation and that Travis was promoting value-added products. That is poaching has declined. In order to par- the losses, but we found the situation Global Enterprise at the Johnson Graduate School of Management veterinarian and vice president, keen to apply his training and experi- the model on which COMACO is based. ticipate in the program, farmers must likely went beyond that,” says Travis. (business economic assessment and engaged in a number of conversations ence in the international arena. The program’s staff give farmers guid- turn in their wire snares and guns—more The team is addressing problems in optimization) than 35,000 and 700, respectively, were poultry production and husbandry, Peter Hobbs, adjunct professor of crop collected during the pilot phase. Ongoing including nutrition and coop design. and soil sciences (introduction of new food crops) field data from the Zambian Wildlife Cornell veterinary students who have Johannes Lehmann, assistant Authority show that the number of received training in poultry medicine, professor of crop and soil sciences snares observed on the ground continues parasitology, and pathology will spend (soils and organic matter recycling) to decrease dramatically. Concurrently, 10-week blocks working on these issues. Benjamin Lucio-Martinez, poultry ground and aerial tracking of lion, buf- This past summer, the college’s Expand- extension veterinarian in the Depart- ment of Population Medicine and falo, water buck, zebra, eland, hartebeest, ing Horizons Program sponsored Erin Diagnostic Sciences (poultry infectious puku, and roan antelope in the valley McDonald, DVM ’08 in Zambia. She disease and husbandry) show that their numbers are on the rise. accompanied local extension officers and Carmen Moraru, assistant professor of Much is at stake. If the conservation helped to train them as veterinary para- food science (food product processing and development) project is successful in Zambia, the pro- professionals who can perform basic Alice Pell, professor of animal sciences gram could be scaled up and expanded clinical observations and gross morpho- and director of the Cornell Institute for into neighboring countries. logical post-mortem examinations. A Food, Agriculture and Development The four-year USAID-funded project virtual diagnostic laboratory allows the (ruminant nutrition and husbandry) will continue the work of the pilot phase, para-professionals to send digital images Alfonso Torres, associate dean for public policy (livestock veterinary diag- using a multifaceted economic model to off-site poultry experts and veterinary nostics, disease surveillance, and pathologists for disease identification governance) Pictured here visiting local Zambians in the Luangwa Valley in summer 2005 are a and treatment recommendations. Alexander Travis, assistant professor multidisciplinary team of scientists from Travis hopes that this project will open of reproductive biology (overall coordi- nator of research and assessment of Cornell and the Wildlife Conservation the door to many more collaborations Society: Michael Kock (standing, left) and biodiversity outcomes) Steve Osofsky (standing, right)—from WCS; with WCS, which has field projects in and Alfonso Torres (seated, left), John Fay more than 53 countries. “As a research (seated, right, arms crossed), Alexander university, Cornell has the dual mission Travis (standing, center, back row), and of discovering new knowledge and edu- Benjamin Lucio-Martinez (standing, right of center)—from Cornell. The gentleman with cating students. Our partnership with his hand raised is a former poacher who now WCS will allow us to fulfill both these uses his knowledge of the wildlife to guide goals in a real-world setting in a way that tourists to see the animals. The smiling woman (standing, center row) has been will advance biodiversity conservation— selected by the local community to manage so that rural Zambians and the wildlife the first ecotourism lodge in the valley. all benefit,” he says.

8 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 9 extractions and occlusal adjustment, car- “Our strategy is to have the right DNA COMS, when the disease is painfully nivore extractions and endodontic ther- and medical-record samples in hand to debilitating for dogs, can be forestalled apy, primate dentistry, and herbivore find genetic markers that are linked, or with early diagnosis and treatment, extractions and occlusal adjustment. associated with, the trait or disease,” according to Dewey, who hopes that Leadership in Todhunter says. “Once verified, that link brain-wave diagnosis will be useful as an Neurology, Neurosurgery, could lead to a genetic marker test. Then early screening test for the disease. As and New Protocols we want to find either the bad forms of many as 70 to 80 percent of Cavalier the gene (alleles) that contribute to the Some of the hospital’s services in neurol- King Charles spaniels may have a genetic diseases—or, indeed, genes that offer ogy and neurosurgery are only possible at predisposition for COMS, he notes, and Clinical Programs protection against the disease. That will an institution with a strong research access to a relatively inexpensive screen lead to improved biological understand- base, according to veterinary neurologist would be appreciated by Cavalier owners ing and better treatments—one of which Patient care, education, Curtis W. Dewey. Patients suffering sei- and breeders. zures, for example, may be eligible to is the possibility of gene therapy.” enroll in clinical trials of anticonvulsant Banking on DNA Currently the Cornell Medical Genetic and scientific innovation drugs, such as zonisamide or levetirace- Archive accepts only purebred animals. If animal owners give their consent—and tam. Among other clinical questions, the The modern breeds established 50 to 100 their purebred animals give a little blood Cornell trials examine alternative means generations ago have the right genetic By Roger Segelken while visiting the Cornell University of administration—intravenous or rec- architecture for association mapping, Hospital for Animals—both parties will tal—for anticonvulsant drugs in animals which leads to gene identification. Pedi- be contributing to a potentially valuable who cannot be given oral medications grees can help, too, so owners of dogs, for knowledge base: the Cornell Medical (e.g., as an emergency treatment in an example, are asked to provide the ani- he Cornell University Hospital for Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Genetics Archive. actively seizuring patient). mal’s AKC number for verification. Animals and the Department of Clinical and Orthodontics, Too Essentially a DNA bank for clinical Many of Dewey’s neurosurgical cases And because any bank needs to keep Sciences have taken the lead in offer- researchers studying the genetic basis of T DVM students in the College of Veteri- involve removal of brain tumors, but he the lights on, there are expenses. Fund- a variety of inherited diseases—including ing advanced patient care services, assuring nary Medicine, as well as hospital clients also is trying to advance the state of the ing to launch the Cornell Medical cancers, liver disease, bleeding disorders, the breadth and depth of clinical care that with companion, large, and exotic ani- art in diagnostic screening tests for neu- Genetic Archive was provided by the vet- endocrinopathies, cardiac disease, ortho- animal owners expect at a preeminent vet- mals, benefit from Cornell’s new empha- rologic disorders before clinical signs erinary college’s Department of Clinical pedic disease, and even behavioral prob- sis on advanced dentistry, says Rodney L. appear. Among other innovative means, Sciences, the Cornell University Center erinary medical and research institution. lems—the bank will yield dividends for Page, the Alexander de Lahunta Chair of he is testing the use of electrodiagnostic for Vertebrate Genomics, and the James Few, if any, veterinary teaching hospitals can the depositors as well. Clinical Scie nces. The hospital’s veteri- measurements of brain waves for A. Baker Institute for Animal Health. match Cornell’s commitment to a full range ”The reward for becoming a volunteer nary dental service, led by Jennifer E. syringohydromylelia (also known as The genetic bank’s founders are looking is knowing that your animal is helping us of newly established specialty services— Rawlinson, now offers a full spectrum of caudal occipital malformation syndrome for additional financial support as the investigate inherited diseases,” Marta including advanced dental services, emer- endodontic care—vital pulp therapy, or COMS) in dogs. Advanced stages of project expands. Castelhano, post-doctoral associate in gency and critical care, neurosurgery, chronic root-canal therapy, apexification, and apexogenesis, periodontics—everything clinical sciences, tells animal owners who Equine Health on the pain management, and shelter medicine— from dental prophylaxis and gingivec- are undecided about participating. “The Growth Track as well as expanded specialty services with information from this archive will help tomy to periodontal splinting and In equine medicine, pioneering research acknowledged excellence—imaging and to develop new genetic tests for many alveolar bone augmentation. initiatives are underway at Cornell in radiology, minimally invasive surgery, and inherited problems and possibly develop Oral surgery procedures begin with upper-airway health, immunology, repro- community practice, for example. At the the expected, like extractions, and Jennifer Rawlinson and a feline patient in new therapeutics for diseases.” the dentistry service at the Cornell duction, and orthopedic disease. Among Originally envisioned by veterinary same time, the Department of Clinical extend to the most specialized—includ- University Hospital for Animals. researchers taking a molecular-biology orthopedic specialist Rory Todhunter as ­Sciences has launched a forward-looking ing cleft-palate surgery and laser resec- approach to reproductive problems are a canine genetic archive with a focus on tion of soft palates, maxillectomy and Sylvia Bedford-Guaus and Marco Medical Genetics Initiative. orthopedic diseases, the DNA bank’s mandibulectomy, oral fracture repair and tistry services—crown restorations, Coutinho da Silva. mandate has expanded to include cats, trauma management, salivary gland sur- crown bonding, full and three-quarter Supplementing the clinical and spe- horses, cattle, and exotic animals with a gery, and temporomandibular joint sur- jacket crowns—serve more than cosmetic cialized research facilities in the Equine much wider range of specific diseases. gery. Orthodontic services at the Cornell purposes, according to Rawlinson. “A and Farm Animal Hospitals is the col- Expert veterinary technical help and the University Hospital for Animals include police dog with a broken canine tooth lege’s nearby Equine Park. Actually three enthusiasm of the staff are what makes bite evaluation and genetic counseling, can’t do its job,” she says. sites comprising more than 200 acres and the endeavor work. Since February when interceptive orthodontic therapy, correc- While dogs and cats make up most of home to an average population of 100 the bank was established, DNA from tive appliance fabrication and installa- the patient load in the veterinary dental horses, the park “is a near-perfect place more than 400 animals has been banked. tion, and active orthodontics utilizing service, specialists there are prepared for to train future veterinarians by providing brackets, buttons, and elastic chains. exotics and large animals, too, with facil- Curtis Dewey examines a neurology hands-on horse experience in a realistic Cornell’s operative and restorative den- ities for small-animal oral radiography, patient at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals. farm setting,” says longtime park direc- 10 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e 11 Maria Flaminio checks on a foal and its mother in the Equine Hospital. In addition to their teaching and clini- interns, and nearly 70 licensed veterinary cal duties in the exotic and wildlife medi- technicians—is vital to the animal cine service of the Cornell University patients they serve. Post-doctoral and Hospital for Animals, Abou-Madi and research associates as well as visiting fel- Kollias also travel to Syracuse’s Burnet lows within the Department of Clinical Park, where the wildlife specialists and Sciences further link research to practice their students provide full-service health for the benefit of all concerned. care to more than 500 animals in the The animal behavior clinic, for exam- Rosamond-Gifford Zoo. ple, tackles commonly encountered prob- Cornell’s emergency and critical care lems of aggression in all species, medicine service, led by Nishi Dhupa, separation anxiety and storm phobias in built an important collaboration in dogs, house soiling in cats, and foal rejec- response to Hurricane Katrina’s devasta- tion in horses. The clinic has an active tion of the U.S. Gulf Coast in 2005, research program to investigate better which overwhelmed the veterinary col- medicinal and behavioral therapies. tor Carol Collyer. The Equine Park pro- facility at the Sally Dunn Farm, five miles lege at Louisiana State University where The small-animal medicine service vides education, research support, and from the main park complex, to provide veterinarians and students were treating draws patients from throughout the state reproductive services that support the quarantine space for new arrivals. stranded animals. Dhupa, who also is and the entire East Coast with its special- equine industry. adviser to the 60-member Cornell chap- ties in hematology, endocrinology, gas- clinical investigations in order to develop Janet Scarlett and feline friends at the Tompkins County SPCA facility in Ithaca. “We have the opportunity to substan- Pursuing Excellence . . . ter of the Student Veterinary Emergency troenterology, hepatology, infectious and useful models of cancer in many species. tially strengthen our equine programs by Everywhere and Critical Care Society, deployed teams immune-mediated diseases, and The institute’s Cancer and Environment improving our facilities in order to more Clinical Sciences Chairman Page points of specially trained volunteers—fourth- nephrology-urology. program investigates risk factors and fully meet our missions of education, with pride to the Cornell specialty ser- year veterinary students and Cornell Large-animal surgeons treat approxi- develops education programming for the research, and service as we move into the vices that are leading the way—in veterinarians Michele Steffey, Ursula mately 2,500 horses and 1,000 farms ani- general public. protocols for vaccination, internal and future,” says Richard P. Hackett, profes- research, education, and practice— Krotscheck, Tracy Gieger, and David mals each year, thanks to their expertise external parasite control, cleaning and sor of surgery. among veterinary colleges in North Brewer—with stocks of medical supplies in orthopedic and soft-tissue surgical A Home for Shelter disinfection, disease testing, animal Equine health program leaders envi- America. A few miles east of the college’s such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics, procedures, emergency and critical care, Medicine handling, personnel and animal traffic sion a comprehensive array of upgrades central campus, preparations are under- suture materials, and bandages. and exercise physiology. Novel surgical Expressions of enthusiasm—from flow, shelter design, and zoonoses man- and facility improvements. DVM stu- way for a new Wildlife Health Center The work of other clinical programs procedures are constantly being devel- ­veterinary students, residents, faculty agement, in addition to treatment proto- dents and veterinarians attending con- under the leadership of George Kollias personnel—among them, about 60 faculty oped and evaluated, and studies are now members and shelter-management cols for common diseases in shelters, tinuing education programs benefit from and Noha Abou-Madi. Research in the members, 42 veterinary residents and underway in the search for new proce- professionals—are unanimous in support surgical and anesthetic protocols and recent additons that include a 35-person wildlife health program focuses on dures for disinfection of surgical wounds. of the college having adopted veterinary perioperative management of in-shelter classroom, a reproduction laboratory for diseases of free-ranging The imaging service in the Cornell science’s newest discipline, shelter ovariohysterectomies and castrations, the handling and evaluation of semen and captive wildlife and University Hospital for Animals con- medicine. The Maddie’s Shelter Medicine and disease surveillance programs. and collected embryos; a small arena to the impact diseases ducts about 9,000 examinations a year— Residency Program, directed by Janet Participants in the shelter-medicine accommodate approximately 25 students might have on wildlife radiographs, CT scans, ultrasound Scarlett, provides instruction and hands- residency program are expected to com- and instructors for demonstrations and conservation efforts. Vet- images, and scintigrams—on all sizes on shelter experience for veterinary plete a clinical research project with an hands-on practice of procedures such as erinary students, externs and species of animals, while its MRI residents and students while sustaining adoption-guaranteed shelter, such as the physical examination, handling and from around the world, system can accommodate animals up to its primary mission to provide for the Tompkins County SPCA shelter, and restraint, and therapeutics in a labora- graduate students, and 200 pounds in weight. well-being of the animals. publish their findings in the scientific tory setting; and a laboratory area with post-graduate veterinar- The oncology service sees about 1,000 DVM students and Maddie’s program literature. Then the residents can add a six sets of parallel equine-restraint stocks ians participate in a patients for chemotherapy or radiation residents are trained in the design, imple- certification of proficiency in shelter where students can safely perform rectal diverse and comprehen- treatments. Oncology’s radiation mentation, and monitoring of preventive- medicine and an MS in epidemiology to palpations and dentistry procedures. sive curriculum in wild- facilities include a state-of-the-art linear medicine programs and treatment their credentials. And perhaps bring a Hackett foresees that other new facili- life, zoo animal, and accelerator with multileaf collimator and a protocols for animals in shelters. healthy adopted pet to graduation ties could round out the Equine Park of exotic animal medicine. CT-based three-dimensional radiation “Our ultimate goal is to minimize dis- ceremonies. the future, including a 20-stall visiting treatment planning facility. The ease and suffering while animals are in mare barn that would accommodate cli- establishment of the Sprecher Institute the shelter and immediately following ent-owned mares brought to the park for for Comparative Cancer Research—for adoption,” says Scarlett. Steps toward breeding services or monitored foalings, which Rodney Page and radiation that goal include the establishment of a four-stall visiting stallion barn to com- oncologist Margaret McEntee serve as plement the current eight-stall resident Noha Abou-Madi examines co-directors—marks the college’s stallion barn, and a new quarantine a young Humboldt penguin during routine rounds at commitment to link basic science with the Rosamond-Gifford Zoo in Syracuse. 12 f a l l 2 0 0 6 13 Jacob Silver Learning activities of note: Two summers in Africa through DVM Class of 2007 Cornell’s Expanding Horizons—first summer at a baboon reha- bilitation center outside Kruger National Park in South Africa, Hometown: performing fecal flotations on four troops of baboons and act- Kingsport, Students of ing as foster parent/vet technician/rehabilitator for orphaned Tennessee infant baboons; second summer at Cheetah Conservation Specialty interest: Fund in Namibia with a reproductive physiologist from the Bovine medicine, Conservation and Research Center of the Smithsonian’s Excellence dairy practice in par- National Zoological Park, collecting semen samples from wild ticular. “I like cattle and captive male cheetahs and assisting researchers with gas- and working with tric biopsies of wild and captive cheetahs, cheetah and brown and Diversity farmers, doing hyena biomedical work-ups, and captive cheetah diagnostics something useful and medical treatments. “These were the best experiences of The veterinary medicine curriculum at Cornell draws the most promising students from across the country. and interesting. my life. The work made me feel that I was making a difference Many find their way to Cornell through the encouragement and mentorship offered by college alumni. There are population and that veterinary medicine was truly my calling.” medicine and production/reproduction parameters to consider, Post-graduation plans: Small-animal internship at Metropoli- here is a growing diversity among the veterinary student body at Cornell. Tuskeegee University School of Veterinary Medicine, says Jai Sweet, direc- and since the individual animals are worth a fair bit, treatments tan Veterinary Hospital in Akron, Ohio; considering graduate It can be seen in both the statistical makeup of the student population tor of student services and multicultural affairs. (According to the American and surgery are also a big part of the work.” school for research in reproduction of endangered species. and in the breadth of fields in which students choose to focus. Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, current enrollment of under- Learning activities of note: Participated in a summer extern- Dreams and aspirations: Working for an organization such as represented minorities hovers just below 10 percent of total student ship following the first year of the DVM program. “It was an Cornell veterinary students stand out for their concentration on specific the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Field Veterinary Program. T enrollment in U.S. veterinary schools.) The term “underrepresented minor- excellent opportunity to work with some very good dairy prac- fields of interest for which there is a call from within the ranks of veteri- ity groups” is defined as including African American, Hispanic, and Native tices and dairy farms, as well as learn more about the industry nary medicine. Trends at Cornell in last five years show a large increase in Jaime-lin Venezia American students, Sweet explains. What explains the strong increasing after the milk leaves the farm.” Had the opportunity as part of a the number of veterinary students interested in food-animal medicine, DVM Class of 2009 trend in minority student matriculation at the college over the past 10 research project to practice in statistical analysis and experimen- from only two or three students per class in 2001 to an average of 8–12 years? Sweet credits college investment in an institution conducive to tal design by gathering and analyzing data on what effects differ- students per class today. These numbers run counter to the national statis- Hometown(s): attracting and keeping the interest of minority students—admissions pre- ent prep routines had on milk letdown. Also completed several tics, which indicate relatively low levels of interest in the field (companion- New York City sentations to attract students into the biomedical sciences, personal con- externships at various practices in New York and Pennsylvania animal medicine pulls the highest numbers). “We have strong initiatives to tacts with promising candidates encouraging applications, U.S. Department and participated in the Summer Dairy Institute at Cornell this Specialty interest: Labora- attract and encourage food-supply veterinarians,” says Daryl Nydam, of Agriculture Multicultural Scholars grants, opportunities for interaction past summer. tory-animal medicine and senior extension associate in the Department of Population Medicine and with current students during the admissions process, and the Expanding clinical research. “A com- Diagnostic Sciences. He cites recruitment efforts, experiential education, Post-graduation plans: Working for a dairy practice in north- Horizons Initiative—multidisciplinary coursework and field experience passion for animals, a pre- numerous classes in food-supply medicine, clinical pathways, and Cornell’s ern New York. focusing on international veterinary medicine. dilection for the sciences, capstone Summer Dairy Institute. “Our students recognize the impact of Dreams and aspirations: Owning my own farm, starting with and a deep interest in dis- herd health on public health. They understand that compromised food Veterinary students at Cornell individualize the DVM curriculum by taking beef cattle and maybe switching to dairy cattle. covery paved my path for safety could have serious consequences for animals and humans.” advantage of numerous opportunities for experiential learning. Each year pursuing this field. Labora- the Expanding Horizons international summer program provides grants to Cornell, a major research university, enrolls an increasing number of veteri- Jordyn Boesch tory-animal vets are at the forefront of sound research, insur- five to seven Cornell veterinary students who have completed proposals nary students with interests in research or academic medicine. The increase DVM Class of 2006 ing accurate and humane protocols and reliable data.” outlining programs of veterinary field experience in developing nations or can be credited to several innovative Cornell programs, says Robert Gilm- Learning activities of note: Participated in a research project related work with international agencies. Students spend 6–10 weeks Hometown: our, the college’s associate dean for research. He cites the Cornell Leader- focused on studying the genetic basis of cardiac abnormalties engaged in either veterinary research or hands-on veterinary experience— Chicopee, Massachusetts ship Program, which draws an international veterinary student body and in a colony of German shepherd dogs, learning molecular tech- such as wildlife rehabilitation, work with local farmers to develop artificial pairs students with researcher mentors; the Dual DVM/PhD Degree Pro- Specialty interest: Free- niques for analysis of specific genes. Participated this past sum- insemination techniques for dairy herds, parasitology research—in coun- gram, which provides financial support and curriculum counseling for the ranging wildlife and con- mer in the Veterinary Scholars Program at North Carolina tries such as Argentina, Brazil, Ghana, Honduras, Kenya, Madagascar, Mex- seven-year program; pre- and post-admission information sessions that servation medicine. “The State University College of Veterinary Medicine on a project ico, South Africa, Thailand, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zambia. “The experience describe research opportunities at Cornell; a new summer program solely thought of losing so that involves the molecular cytogenetic analysis of soft-tissue broadens each individual’s perspective and helps students become more for Cornell veterinary students, the Veterinary Investigator Program; and a many beautiful species to sarcomas in flat-coated retrievers. “The project goal is to iden- focused in their studies and pursuit of a specialty,” says Alfonso Torres, the new NIH training grant that supports students who choose to take a year extinction is upsetting to tify a common region of the canine genome that appears to be college’s associate dean for public policy. The college encourages other off- off from the DVM curriculum to pursue biomedical research experience. In me. I feel that veterinar- abnormal in cases of soft-tissue sarcomas, which may lead to site clinical, field, and research experiences—noncredit externships with addition, faculty are evaluating the potential of linking several residency ians can play an impor- the identification of cancer-associated genes.” private and corporate practice, humane societies, governmental agencies, programs with PhD programs. “Through these programs the college has tant role in helping to and pharmaceutical/pet food companies; and opportunity blocks that Post-graduation plans: A residency in lab-animal medicine, established itself as an institution genuinely interested in promoting make long-term, far- include for-credit off-campus clinical experience in institutional settings preferably with a research focus. research opportunities for veterinary students,” says Gilmour. reaching change in the with established teaching programs or in facilities offering unique clinical world and preventing Dreams and aspirations: A career in industry as a laboratory- Today the college enrolls more students from underrepresented minority or research experiences. A full 90 percent of students in the DVM Class of such a catastrophe.” animal veterinarian, collaborating on research that involves groups—16.5 percent—than any U.S. veterinary college other than 2006 completed at least one opportunity block; many completed several. drug discovery in the field of cancer therapeutics.

14 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 15 Katie Murphy Julio Lopez Learning activities of note: Participated last summer in Cor- Rebecca Mitchell DVM Class of 2008 DVM Class of 2008 nell’s Expanding Horizons program, assisting with a river dol- DVM Class of 2009 phin conservation project in Argentina—aiding the research Hometown: Hometown: Hometown: team in their collection of behavioral, necropsy, and population southern New Jersey Los Angeles, California Skaneateles, New York survey data. “It was an amazing experience, widening my per- Cor- Specialty interest: Specialty interest: spective on the possible services that our profession can pro- Specialty interest: Public-health veteri- Small-animal medicine. vide.” This past summer as part of Expanding Horizons, she nell’s dual DVM/PhD cur- nary medicine. In He values the opportuni- traveled to Zambia to be a part of a large multidisciplinary riculum. Research in particular, epidemi- ties that working at a research project (Cornell and the Wildlife Conservation Society) production-animal medi- ology, infectious dis- small-animal practice focusing on the improvement of rural livelihood and sustainable cine—to address the need eases, food safety, provides—the chance to agriculture/biodiversity conservation. for safe, reliable food risk analysis, and become part of the spe- sources in both developed Post-graduation plans: One of my passions has always been emergency pre- cial bond between clients and developing nations. and their pets. “I have biodiversity conservation—in both the short- and long-term. paredness and Learning activities of enjoyed getting to know response. Dreams and aspirations: I’d like to continue using my veteri- note: Spent two years the clients at the practices for which I have worked. When we nary education to work towards sustainability and wildlife prior to entering veteri- Learning activities help a child’s pet get better and see the look on the child’s face conservation on an international level. nary school beginning a of note: Participated and their excitement when they come to pick up their ‘best PhD project to study the in a veterinary stu- friend’ from the hospital—that’s absolutely the best.” dent trainee pro- Mariea Ross transmission of Johne’s gram sponsored by Learning activities of note: Medicine and surgery has been my DVM Class of 2006 disease on dairy farms in the United States—working with the the Food Safety and favorite class so far—the real deal. Besides this, I would have to Hometown: Johne’s disease research group at Cornell, in Quality Milk Pro- Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, say physiology—I have always found it interesting to learn how Bloomfield Hills, duction Services—a chance to learn techniques in statistics and “where I realized that I wanted to pursue public health.” Winter the different body systems function and interact. Michigan mathematical modeling. Spent summer 2005 in the Leadership break 2006, traveled to the U.S. Center for Disease Control Program for Veterinary Students at Cornell. “We had the oppor- As co-president of the student group Veterinary Students as Specialty interest: (CDC)’s Day for Veterinary Students, which highlighted career tunity to meet all kinds of researchers and get a glimpse into all One in Culture and Ethnicity (VOICE) I have had the opportu- Avian and exotic- choices in the federal government. One of two students attend- the places a research career could take a veterinary student.” nity to help organize events that celebrate the cultural diversity animal medicine. ing the Infectious Diseases Meeting with U.S. Senator Hillary Also spent summer 2004 in Peru, learning how to build a model of our student body. In celebration of Latin Heritage Month, we Many of the same Clinton when she visited Cornell in March. Participated this of T. solium transmission and working with research trials in held a Latin taste fair for which VOICE members cooked principles of medi- past summer in the Smith-Kilbourne Program at Cornell and Lima—first chance to spend time in a developing nation and authentic Latin dishes for the veterinary community to enjoy. cine and surgery the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, learning about various first hands-on experience with parasite control efforts. Post-graduation plans: Return to Los Angeles to complete an apply, but your phys- foreign animal diseases that potentially threaten the domestic Post-graduation plans: Following the completion of my DVM internship in small-animal medicine and surgery with mentor ical examination is animal population. Also participated in the International degree, I will spend one more year at Cornell’s College of Stephen Ettinger, Cornell DVM ’64, at the California Animal much faster. Diagnostics can be difficult to obtain, she explains, Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostician training course at Plum Veterinary Medicine, focused on completing a graduate thesis. Hospital. Then a residency in small-animal internal medicine. without stressing your patient, who is often a master at disguis- Island, analyzing the association of herd- and animal-level risk ing illness. “I love working with my patients. I know I’m in the Dreams and aspirations: To continue research in the field of factors with the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in Dreams and aspirations: Eventually own a veterinary hospital right profession because even on my worst days I still have a mathematical modeling. There are many opportunities open in Salmonella isolates from dairy cattle. (or part of one). Also help with efforts aimed at preserving reason to smile.” many different genres (public health, agriculture, policy, indus- endangered species. Post-graduation plans: Work for a government agency in the Learning activities of note: Through a program sponsored by try) for this type of research. “Serendipity seems to be the theme Northeast. Pursue an MPH (master of public health) or PhD. the college’s Alumni Association, spent one summer in Califor- of all research careers, so even if I picked one now, I’m sure I’d Erin Mcdonald be wrong.” Dreams and aspirations: Apply to the CDC’s Epidemic DVM Class of 2008 nia working with Bruce Boehringer, Cornell DVM ’64 and Erika Intelligence Service, a two-year program for on-the-job Mendez, Cornell DVM ’02. “They were great mentors, allowing training in disease outbreak and investigation. Hometown: me to shadow them during appointments, scrub in during sur- New Hartford, gery, and spend time with veterinary specialists.” New York Post-graduation plans: Associate veterinarian at the Pender Specialty interest: The Veterinary Centre in Fairfax, Virginia, working with cats, dogs, roles of veterinarians in and exotics. developing nations and what we can do to pro- Dreams and aspirations: Figure out what I really want to do mote sustainable liveli- with life—enjoy working with exotics, but also enjoy working hoods for people, their with dogs and cats. “No matter what I choose, I hope I’m doing animals, and the natural something that I’ll look forward to every day.” world on which they depend.

16 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 17 Construction Search Begins for New Dean Update Research Facility Takes Shape Orderly Transition of Leadership

“The ECRF will allow us to ensure Donald F. Smith, the university’s Austin O. Hooey search committee to recruit a new dean. “I am also Work continues on the construction of the East Campus that the animal care and use program Research Facility (ECRF), located on the south side of the col- Dean of Veterinary Medicine, recently announced delighted that the number of women faculty and lege’s Veterinary Research Tower (VRT) on Tower Road. Three at Cornell University remains one of the that he will pass his leadership to a successor at the diversity of the student body at the college floors will be occupied; one is required for mechanical equip- the end of his second term in June 2007. have increased under Dean Smith’s direction.” ment. When completed in September 2007, the four-story premiere programs in North America.” Appointed by former Cornell President The college’s department chairs also 80,000-square-foot building will house research and teaching Hunter Rawlings in April 1997, Smith is a congratulated Smith on his leadership, academic animals for faculty across the university and markedly expand member of the National Academy of Practices vision, and reorganization of the college’s finances Cornell’s capacity to house laboratory mice in a clean environ- and the first board-certified clinician to serve as and fostering of transparency and accountability. ment. In concert with animal facilities in Cornell’s Life Sciences dean of the college. “These policies and practices stand the college in Technology Building, currently under construction on the “Dean Smith’s tireless leadership and devotion good stead and will serve as a wonderful legacy of south side of Tower Road, the ECRF will boost the university’s to his profession have been the forces behind the Don’s leadership,” says Michael Kotlikoff, chair of capacity to house and care for more than 80,000 mice for impressive achievements of Cornell’s College of the Department of Biomedical genomics-related research. Veterinary Medicine,” says Rawlings. “Because of Sciences. “The ECRF will allow us to ensure that the animal care and Dean Smith’s vision and foresight, the college has After he steps down from his “The college has not only use program at Cornell University remains one of the premiere maintained its traditions and high standards post, Smith plans to return to the sustained its leadership programs in North America, while providing operational effi- while undergoing an innovative reorganization faculty, where he will explore ciencies to ensure lower animal-care costs to support the excit- that has enhanced its academic departments and special opportunities concerning in clinical research, the veterinary profession, in ing research of our faculty in this competitive environment,” the programs offered to students. We look education, and patient says Michele Bailey, Cornell’s associate vice provost for research forward to building on his legacy as we prepare particular the relationship of animal resources and a veterinarian specializing in laboratory for the upcoming transition.” companion animals to the family care but also has become animal medicine and science. Exterior wall construction has begun, and layout and construc- From the start of his deanship, Smith set the structure in America. He also will a major force in the The ECRF is central to the university’s Life Sciences initiative, course for Cornell’s advanced efforts in continue to advocate for the tion of interior walls also is under way. The steel framing for the university’s initiative says Michael Kotlikoff, professor and chair of the college’s fourth level of the building began in May. Electrical and plumb- biomedical research by establishing three advancement of the biomedical Department of Biomedical Sciences and a faculty member of ing work is in progress on the first through third levels. Work academic priorities in his first year, encouraging sciences within the veterinary to enhance Cornell’s the mammalian genomics focus area of Cornell’s new life sci- continues on the mechanical space at the south end of the site. interdisciplinary collaboration in infectious medical infrastructure, an area to research in the new ences initiative. “Mice are an essential part of modern biological The new facility will be connected to the VRT via a linking disease; cancer biology and oncology; and which he has devoted life sciences.” research—they are the only mammalian species in which we corridor to the first floor, which already has been constructed. mammalian genomics. Throughout his tenure, considerable attention while can routinely add or eliminate a specific gene, and because As a separate project, the first floor of the VRT is being reno- Smith strengthened Cornell’s reputation as the serving as dean at Cornell. genetically identical strains of mice have been produced, they vated to accommodate the offices of the Cornell Center for Ani- most respected name in veterinary medicine by “As I approach the end of my allow us to determine the effect of altering one gene,” he says. mal Resources and Education. Design has been completed for leading the pursuit of animal and public health second term, in June 2007, I now look forward to “Our current facilities have reached capacity, and the ECRF and the first-floor offices, and the plans are out for contractor bids. through education, research, and service. Under passing the baton to my successor and returning to new Life Sciences Technology Building will provide the neces- Work on the offices is expected to begin this year, with comple- his deanship, Cornell’s College of Veterinary serve on the faculty,” Smith says. “The College of sary capacity for the many investigators working in these areas.” tion in early 2007. Medicine consistently has ranked high among its Veterinary Medicine is vigorous and well poised to To learn more about Cornell’s Life Sciences initiative—a “We’re making every effort possible to coordinate the timing peers, earning the No. 1 ranking since 2000 recruit our tenth dean, who will most likely lead us university-wide collaboration to develop and launch a multiyear, of construction tasks so that we can minimize disturbances for according to U.S. News and World Report. through Cornell’s sesquicentennial in 2015. I trust $600-million campaign to enhance and support life sciences the people who work in the area,” says John Keefe, project man- “The college has not only sustained its you will give my successor the same support and research and education—see http://lifesciences.cornell.edu. ager, who works in the Planning, Design, and Construction unit leadership in clinical research, education, and encouragement that you have provided to me.” Those passing by the ECRF site can now clearly see the con- of Cornell’s Facilities Services. patient care but also has become a major force in struction progress. The building’s concrete structure is well Building design for the $55 million project is by Ballinger the university’s initiative to enhance Cornell’s under way. The concrete floor for the fourth level recently was Architects of Philadelphia. research in the new life sciences,” says Provost completed, and the concrete fire-stair roof decks and roof The college’s facilities office is posting quarterly updates on Carolyn (Biddy) Martin, who has convened a parapets were poured in May. construction progress. Contact Wayne Davenport at wad2@ cornell.edu for information.

18 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 19 News Veterinary Medicine who passed away after a in honor of long illness on December 22, 2005. Morrow another person, is served as president of the executive board of the quintessence the college Alumni Association from of philanthropy.” Briefs 2000–2001. After 43 years of preeminent leadership in Alumni News College News teaching and The College of Veterinary Medicine welcomes scholarship, Joseph Merenda, DVM ’34 returned for his Cornell’s twelfth president, David J. Skorton, Alexander 72nd reunion in June. “I still love Cornell MD, and his wife and new veterinary faculty deLahunta retired deeply,” he said, promising to return for his member Robin Davisson, PhD, who arrived from the college 75th reunion in 2009. in Ithaca accompanied by their two beloved faculty at the end Among the many guests returning for Newfoundland dogs, Miles and Billie. of the 2005 their 60th year reunion were John Steele, Davisson, an accomplished biomedical academic year. He distinguished equine practitioner in researcher and teacher, has been appointed and his wife, Pat, Wellington, Florida, and Robert Kirk, Rodney Page professor of cell biology in the Department of reside in Rye, professor emeritus. Also returning was Biomedical Sciences. Her research focuses on New Hampshire, close to the ocean and their Dr. Sylvia Berg Salk, wife of Herman Salk ’46 the basic mechanisms of function, control, beloved grandchildren. and sister-in-law of Jonas Salk, MD. “This was and signaling in the cardiovascular system in A fund honoring Dr. deLahunta was my first visit back to Cornell since we left in health and disease. She is a leading scholar in established last year, with the proceeds being 1946,” she said, “and I thoroughly enjoyed it.” the field of cardiovascular genomics and will used for neurology and support of the long- Sheila W. Allen, DVM ’81 is the new dean for be a natural complement to the other term teaching efforts of the college. The college’s fourth annual White Coat Ceremony, sponsored by the college’s Alumni the College of Veterinary Medicine at the scientists and clinicians in the college. “She is One of the first donors to the fund is Association, was held in December for the Class of 2007. The featured speaker for the evening University of Georgia. She joins a a terrific scholar and mentor,” notes Michael Edward von der Schmidt, DVM ’78, who is was Ann C. Harris, DVM ’83. During the ceremony, a tradition at veterinary medical colleges distinguished list of Cornell alumni who have Kotlikoff, department chair. “We are honored also a practicing human neurosurgeon in across the country, students receive a white coat, a symbol of professionalism and empathy in Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton visited the the practice of medicine. The rite of passage reminds veterinary medical students of the need served as dean of a college of veterinary to have her select the veterinary college as her Princeton, New Jersey. “Like multitudes of College of Veterinary Medicine in March, Cornell graduates since 1963, I felt Dr. to balance excellence in science with humanistic patient care. Cornell’s ceremony honors the medicine in the past 100 years. new academic home.” Davisson will have a spending almost three hours with faculty and individuals who have provided considerable support and special encouragement to our joint appointment in cell and developmental deLahunta’s profound impact in my life and Douglas G. Aspros, DVM ’75 has been students. The purpose of her visit was to learn students—they are invited to participate in the ceremony by enrobing their students with the biology at the Weill-Cornell Medical College career, and I am delighted to return to Cornell elected to the executive board of the about Cornell’s public health efforts in avian time-honored mantle of the medical profession: the white coat. in New York City. in recognition of the outstanding faculty who flu, bovine spongiform encephalitis, and other American Veterinary Medical Association taught me,” he said. through 2010, representing New York and the Ezra Cornell turns 200. Celebrations will zoonotic diseases. She also met with faculty New England states. He also has served as continue throughout the 2006–2007 academic Alfonso Torres has been named associate and staff leaders in the Breast Cancer and , assistant professor president of the New York State Veterinary year in honor of the 200th anniversary of the dean for public policy. His portfolio of duties Environmental Risk Factor program, a John Parker, BVMS, PhD formulating and of virology in the Department of Microbiology Medical Society, chair of the AVMA’s Council birth of the university’s founder. Ezra Cornell, has been expanded to include state and multidimensional research and outreach implementing and Immunology, is the recipient of the on Education, and a member of the College’s born in DeRuyter, New York, on January 11, federal government relations and public effort jointly sponsored by the federal and fundraising and Burroughs Wellcome Investigators in Advisory Board and the Cornell University 1807, was a builder, entrepreneur, and farmer. policy; oversight of the Animal Health state governments. campaign Pathogenesis of Infectious Disease Award. Council. In 1996, Aspros and his wife, Dee, Cornell insisted that veterinary medicine be Diagnostic Center; leadership and “I have a very high regard for the work you strategies, he was This is the first time in which either a established the Hobbes Scholarship to support among the subjects taught in his new development of international veterinary do here,” Clinton said, commenting on her responsible for veterinarian or a Cornell faculty member has veterinary students at Cornell. university. programs as well as wildlife and biosafety first visit to the college. “Veterinary colleges alumni and parent been given this honor. (The award provides The college will honor this milestone in its programs; and participation in the are moving into the lead in cancer research. relations, $80,000 per year for five years.) Parker is a Scholarships Recognize heritage throughout the year, including at professional veterinary curriculum through Cornell is one of our world leaders.” university Distinguished Alumni courses related to foreign and emerging faculty member at the Baker Institute for development, alumni receptions at the AVMA meeting, the Michael Wildenstein, Cornell’s resident Animal Health. He studies feline calciviruses publications, and The John Whitefield Scholarship was North American Veterinary Conference, and diseases of animals. farrier, has been inducted in to the and mammalian orthoeviruses. WRVO, Oswego’s established by colleagues of John Whitefield, the Western States Veterinary Conference. International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame. Robert O. Gilbert has been appointed senior public radio Kevin Mahaney ’85 (CALS) joined the DVM ’65, a pioneer in the application of Rodney L. Page was recently appointed the associate dean. In this capacity his expanded Wildenstein is the only American farrier that college in March as assistant dean for alumni station. Before joining SUNY Oswego, surgical expertise and clinical practice, who Alexander deLahunta Chair of Clinical duties include oversight responsibility for is certified as a fellow with honors of affairs and development, with responsibility Mahaney was assistant dean for public affairs passed away on August 20, 2004. Sciences. The endowed chairmanship results academic appointments, promotions, and distinction of the Worshipful Company of for fundraising and alumni programs on in Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life from a $2.5 million gift by an anonymous tenure; for capital projects, facilities, and Farriers, achieving a score that ranked among The Marilyn Schmidt Scholarship is being behalf of the college. Prior to assuming this Sciences, where he led a team responsible for donor, a long-time friend of veterinary assignment of space; for the Cornell the four best scores ever recorded in the 650 established by the family and friends of position, Mahaney was vice president for development, alumni affairs, and public medicine and a senior member of Cornell’s University Hospital for Animals; and for the year history of the guild. Marilyn Schmidt, DVM ’78 who died development and alumni relations at the State relations initiatives. Mahaney lives in Ithaca board of trustees. “Not only is this a college’s relationship with the State University suddenly on September 27, 2005. An University of New York at Oswego and with his wife, Sheri, and their two sons. magnificent gift in terms of its monetary of New York. Gilbert also serves as deputy accomplished equine veterinarian and horse- president/executive director of the Oswego value,” said Dean Donald Smith in making the dean in the dean’s absence. woman, Schmidt was a loving parent and wife College Foundation, Inc. In addition to and an engaged member of the community. announcement, “but more importantly it honors perhaps the best teacher of veterinary The David Morrow Scholarship honorsDavid medicine since James Law, Cornell’s founding Morrow, DVM ’60, PhD ’67, a longtime veterinary professor and dean. To name a gift friend and supporter of the College of

20 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 21 Gifts Zweig Fund Endows Assistant Life Science Professorship Awarded to to the Professorship in Equine Health Veterinary Faculty Member Maria Julia Bevilaqua Felippe Flaminio, DVM, Holger Sondermann, a faculty member in the College MS, PhD, DACVIM, assistant professor of college’s Department of Molecular Medicine, large animal medicine, recently was named has been named as the Robert N. Noyce the Harry M. Zweig Assistant Professor in Professor of Life Science and Technology, a Equine Health. She is the first recipient of this three-year appointment made to a young

® endowed position funded by the Harry M. Cornell faculty member in genomics, Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program medicine in the College of Veterinary Zweig Memorial Fund for Equine Research engineering, or technology. The professorship, The college is Medicine. Dr. Powell and his partner Dr. Mark and the college. The three-year honor is given endowed in 2001 by Cornell Trustee Ann S. grateful to Maddie’s Johnson operate one of the most successful to a junior faculty member who shows Bowers ’59 on behalf of the Noyce Foundation Fund for funding the animal practices in the Mid-Atlantic region, promise and productivity in the field of named in honor of her late husband Robert N. new Maddie’s the Pender Veterinary Clinic in Fairfax, equine research. Noyce, supports the university’s initiative in Virginia. The full-service animal hospital, Shelter Medicine Maria Flaminio, the life sciences. opened in 1971, now boasts 25 doctors— Program, which DVM, PhD is Sondermann is interested in deciphering including several Cornellians—providing Teresa Gunn, PhD (left), with Mary Udall. provides instruction Gunn is a leading authority on genes with the first faculty the regulatory principles in signal service in internal medicine, cardiology, and shelter overlapping functions and their links to member to be transduction networks, focusing on growth- experience for ophthalmology, dermatology and allergy congenital problems such as heart appointed as factor receptor signaling and scaffolding Cornell veterinarians and veterinary students. treatment, geriatric medicine, reproductive arrhythmia in German shepherds and the Harry M. proteins. Understanding the details of these The fund was founded by David Duffield, BEE medicine, orthopedics, surgery (including spongiform degeneration in the brains of Zweig processes will elucidate how cells respond to ’63, MBA ’64 and his wife, Cheryl, in memory laser surgery), ultrasonography, and mutant mice. Assistant various inputs and control the activation of Professor in of their beloved miniature Schnauzer, Maddie. endoscopy. Internal medicine specialist Richard signaling switches for normal growth. Equine Health. Laurie Peek, DVM ’96, serves as the veterinary Powell also founded the nonprofit Pender large-animal clinician from 1908–1942. Goldstein and Susan Brown, LVT, check on a programs director for the fund. Pet Caring Foundation, which promotes and Through this assistant professorship the canine patient in the ICU. The program’s four components—Maddie’s provides funding for animal care. The legacy of these two giants in veterinary Shelter Medicine Residency, veterinary foundation funds Cornell’s Comparative medicine will live in perpetuity. where he received excellent care and student training, Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Cancer Program and Cornell’s Feline Health Few people associated with veterinary compassion from veterinary internist Richard Outreach, and Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Center, sponsors continuing education, medicine in the first half of the twentieth Flaminio has expertise in research of the Goldstein and the hospital’s clinicians. Research—enable students to create and supports adoption programs such as Guiding century are held in higher esteem than equine immune system, with specific attention Cornwell returned with another English evaluate preventive medicine and treatment Eyes for the Blind, and subsidizes the Dr. Denny Hammond Udall, longtime editor to the foal. She currently is investigating how bulldog, Okey, and was again impressed with protocols and implement and monitor disease treatment of sick or injured stray animals. and publisher of The Cornell Veterinarian, the immune system of a foal responds to a the level of excellence at the hospital. When surveillance systems in animal shelters. The Powell served on the college’s Advisory director of the Ambulatory Clinic, and head of Rhodococcus equi infection. She joined the Okey was rescued he had one eye blinded and Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Residency, three Council from 2000–2003 and continues his Cornell’s Department of Veterinary Medicine college’s Department of Clinical Sciences was totally deaf due to neglect, but his years in length, leads to Cornell certification strong commitment to the college. He has from 1908–1942. Udall proved formidable as faculty in 2001. She earned a DVM in 1989 treatment at Cornell helped improve the of proficiency in shelter medicine and a attended the Career Forum for the past three a veterinary specialist with his pioneering from the Universidade Estadual Paulista- quality of his life. master’s of science degree in epidemiology. years to recruit graduates for internships at work on the clinical control of mastitis and his UNESP-Botucatu, Brazil, completed an “Cornell is the place to go, without a doubt, (See related story on page 13.) The program his practice, and often returns to campus to championing of tuberculosis and brucellosis internship in equine surgery and medicine in if there’s something wrong with one of your will supplement the shelter medicine speak to veterinary students. Powell also is a eradication programs. He authored more than 1995, a master’s degree in 1997, and a animals,” says Cornwell. curriculum by supporting shelter medicine member of a 20-practice management group 60 scientific papers and books, including the residency in equine internal medicine in 1998 Thanks to Cornwell’s generous gift, a rounds; a brown-bag luncheon series on that sets standards for veterinary practices. seminal textbook The Practice of Veterinary at Kansas State University. In 1999 she wireless server was installed to beam companion animal welfare issues; a student Medicine. He retired in 1942 but served as achieved board certification from the magnetic resonance images, computed endowed Professorship Honors Legendary insurance mogul Maurice R. club, Veterinary Students for the Prevention professor emeritus until his death in 1955. American College of Veterinary Internal tomographyscans, ultrasounds, and Greenberg and his wife, Corinne (pictured Udall Legacy Robert Udall spent his professional career Medicine; she received her PhD in radiographic images throughout the hospital. of Cruelty to Animals; externships with above with Snowball), were honored at the at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, immunology from Cornell in 2002. adoption-guarantee shelters, the ASPCA in In announcing geneticist Teresa Gunn as the This critical technology upgrade allows college on April 11 at the dedication of the New York City, and Lollypop Farms in first faculty member to be appointed as the where he was a professor in the Department medical teams to quickly view and share Intensive Care Unit Named for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite Rochester; field trips to adoption-guarantee Robert Hovey Udall Assistant Professor, Dean of Pathology at the College of Veterinary images, which in turn speeds up diagnosis and bearing their name. Funded by a generous shelters, and special lectures. The program Donald Smith said, “Dr. Gunn’s teaching and Medicine. His expertise was in the Author Patricia Cornwell treatment of patients. More than 17,000 donation from the Maurice and Corinne will support outreach through services to research interests match very closely to what a biochemistry of animal diseases, particularly The college dedicated the Patricia Cornwell companion animals are treated at the Cornell Greenberg Foundation, the suite has been participating shelters, including diagnostic twenty-first century Robert Udall may have metabolic diseases of sheep. Udall’s academic ICU for Companion Animals in June, in University Hospital for Animals every year, operational at the Cornell University Hospital and medical support for evaluation of done—and that greatly pleases his family and pursuits took him to Europe and then Africa, celebration of a gift of $1 million from Patricia and in an emergency or when the patient is in for Animals since fall 2004. Snowball, the population-level disease issues. The Maddie’s friends. We are deeply grateful to Robert and where he worked on a project for the U.S. Cornwell, New York Times bestselling author critical condition, every second counts. Greenberg’s 12-year-old Maltese and a cancer survivor, was the guest of honor during the Program will support research in medical and his wife, Mary, for their inspiring support of Agency for International Development. He and former crime reporter. inaugural ceremony. Jonathan May, Cornell our young faculty.” retired from Colorado State in 1978. behavioral problems and protocols relative to Cornwell’s gift to Cornell was inspired by DVM ‘80, who is the Greenberg’s personal In 1997 Robert Udall was honored as a adoption-guarantee shelters. The Robert Hovey Udall Assistant her affinity for animals in need as well as her veterinarian, was responsible for Snowball’s Professorship was endowed through the gifts foremost benefactor of Cornell after commitment and advocacy for causes such as Powells Endow a Professorship initial diagnosis and surgical treatment of Robert Udall AB ’38, DVM ’41, PhD ’51, establishing a substantial unrestricted forensic research, victims’ support, and animal almost four years ago. Margaret McEntee, in Small-Animal Medicine who died in 2001. He gave to Cornell to honor endowment for the College of Veterinary rescue. Her gift was pledged after she brought medical and radiation oncologist and chief of Donald (DVM ’69) and Rita Littleton Powell his father Denny Hammond Udall, a 1901 Medicine in honor of his father. He added to her beloved English bulldog Booboo to the oncology at the Cornell University Hospital have established a $2 million advised bequest graduate of the College of Veterinary that gift in 1999 through a charitable gift Cornell University Hospital for Animals, for Animals, led Cornell’s clinical team in their care of Snowball following his referral to endow a professorship for small-animal Medicine, a Cornell faculty member, and annuity. by his veterinarian to Cornell.

22 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e f a l l 2 0 0 6 23 End Note A Siberian tiger holds court at the Bronx Zoo. Announcing a New $80 Million Animal Health Diagnostic Center for Cornell

By Donald F. Smith, Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine

“You have the brain power, you full-service multidisciplinary animal dis- programs, and disease management. have the education, you have ease diagnostic facility in the state, the Members of the AHDC are involved in AHDC conducts one million tests per the development of animal health public the commitment, and now . . . year for infectious, parasitic, endocrine, policy through service on task forces, the resources.” or toxicological diseases—on more than committees, panels, and advisory groups 300,000 individual samples from across to producer organizations and state and e were delighted to host Governor the United States and Canada. The federal agencies. They also are active in Pataki at the college on August 14. AHDC operates in close partnership the international arena, dealing with HeW brought good news—the state of New with the state’s Department of Agricul- animal-disease controls and trade in York is providing $50 million in capital ture and Markets and other departments animals and animal products. funding (to be supplemented by $30 mil- involved in disease surveillance and pre- The AHDC is part of Cornell’s long lion from Cornell and other sources) for a vention in animals and humans. Since veterinary public health tradition. Veteri- new building to consolidate the Animal the 2002 appointment of Alfonso Torres, nary medicine has been taught and prac- Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) ser- former U.S. chief veterinary officer, to ticed since Cornell University opened its vice activities. The new 126,000-square- lead the AHDC, Cornell has expanded its doors in 1868, and diagnostic services foot facility, to be completed in 2010, will role in the surveillance of diseases at the were offered soon after the college was increase our capabilities to ensure the national level. As one of 12 pilot labora- chartered in 1894. The first building des- early detection and identification of tories in the National Animal Health ignated as a diagnostic laboratory opened pathogens that can significantly affect the Laboratory Network, funded by the U.S. at Cornell in 1977. Today the AHDC Events health of animals and humans. A major Department of Agriculture, the AHDC operates laboratories in 12 different November 4–5 component of the new AHDC building offers surveillance and expanded diag- buildings within the greater Ithaca area. Solving Canine Behavior Problems, Ithaca NY will be the addition of laboratories with nostic capabilities for a number of animal Nearly 30 years later, all agree that it is enhanced biosecurity (BSL-3) to enable diseases not present in the United States, time for a new facility to house all of its November 9–10 the safe and reliable handling of patho- like highly pathogenic avian influenza. diagnostic services. As Cornell’s Presi- Equine Practitioners Conference, Ithaca NY genic microorganisms. Today, samples from more than 90 dent David Skorton recently said, “This Cornell Veterinary Medicine November 11–12 Pataki commended our faculty and live-bird markets in New York City are new facility’s research and diagnostic Cornell University 23rd Cornell Farrier Conference, Ithaca NY staff, saying, “You have the brain power, routinely being tested for the H5 and H7 programs will have a profound influence College of Veterinary Medicine you have the education, you have the strains of avian flu. Two years ago, on New York’s economy and on animal Ithaca, NY 14853-6401 December 2 commitment, and now what you need are AHDC researchers isolated the canine and human health in the state, the 607-253-3000 White Coat Ceremony, Ithaca NY the resources.” The governor acknowl- flu virus that was killing dogs in 13 states nation, and throughout the world.” www.vet.cornell.edu December 4 edged that a majority of infectious dis- including New York. In 2005 the AHDC The link between human and animal American Association of Equine Practitioners Conference eases are threats to both animals and identified chronic wasting disease in health is critical. Many emerging infec- Alumni Reception, San Antonio TX humans—avian influenza, West Nile New York’s whitetail deer population. tious diseases discovered during the last January 13, 2007 virus, and bovine spongiform encepha- In conjunction with the college’s few years threaten the health of both ani- Major Photography lopathy (“mad cow” disease), examples Department of Population Medicine and mals and humans, making expanded At the Wildlife Conservation Society’s North American Vterianry Conference. Orlando, FL from recent news stories about which Diagnostic Sciences, the AHDC also pro- monitoring and diagnostic testing essen- Bronx Zoo by Jesse Winter, photographer, and Nick Walker, assistant. February 19 many in the public are aware. vides research, teaching, and outreach— tial. I trust that you will join us in looking At Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine Western States Veterinary Conference, Las Vegas, NV The AHDC is involved in many other diagnostic methodologies, epidemiology, forward to the promise and potential of and Syracuse’s Rosamond-Gifford Zoo by diagnostic services as well. As the only disease pathogenesis, preventive health our new AHDC building program. Alexis Wenski-Roberts, photographer. Produced by the Office of Publications and Marketing at Cornell University. Printed on recycled paper. 24 Co r n e l l V e t erinary Medi c i n e 10/06 10M EL 060428 A mare and her foal cantering in a pasture at Cornell’s Equine Park.

Ithaca, New York 14853-6401

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