Industry News - Oct 12, 2026

FEDERAL

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

• The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has modified Infested Zone 15 for New World screwworm (NWS) with USDA's APHIS, removing NWS-related movement requirements for livestock and pets within that area. However, interstate and international movement requirements still apply, and several other infested zones remain in Texas. (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/texas-modifies-new-world-screwworm-infested-zone)

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is urging people to use local or heat-treated firewood to prevent the spread of invasive forest pests. Moving firewood can transport insects and diseases that damage forests, so it's important to follow state and federal quarantines and buy firewood near where you'll burn it. (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-reminds-public-help-protect-americas-trees-buy-firewood-where-you)

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American Veterinary Medical Association

• The American Board of Veterinary Toxicology (ABVT) held a hybrid in-person and virtual annual meeting on July 13, 2026, in Anaheim, California. The ABVT presented an award and seated new officials. (https://www.avma.org/news/american-board-veterinary-toxicology-july-13-2026)

• Veterinarian obituaries in the "In Memory" section of the Journal of the AVMA, October 08, 2026 (https://www.avma.org/news/memory-october-8-2026)

• The U.S. now has 88.9 million pet dogs and 77 million pet cats, per the newly released 2026 AVMA Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook. Dogs still outnumber cats in U.S. households, but cat acquisitions rose faster year over year. (https://www.avma.org/news/dogs-still-reign-cats-are-closing-gap-avma-data-show)

• The Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Initiative has debuted the "2026 RECOVER First Aid Guidelines for Dogs and Cats" addressing urgent conditions such as burns, choking, heatstroke, and hypoglycemia in the prehospital setting where timely action is critical. (https://www.avma.org/news/first-aid-guidelines-dogs-cats-address-critical-prehospital-period)

• On September 24, 2026, the port of entry in Santa Teresa, New Mexico—located near El Paso, Texas—reopened to feeder cattle from Mexico. The port is about 150 miles southwest from one of the most recently confirmed New World screwworm cases in the U.S. (https://www.avma.org/news/another-port-reopens-cattle-mexico-amid-nws-cases-nearby)

• Starting next year, veterinarians in Colorado will be able to accept and reissue unused, unexpired, and unadulterated veterinary drugs. The move follows similar steps in Idaho, Minnesota, Nevada, and Rhode Island. (https://www.avma.org/news/veterinary-drug-donation-laws-aim-help-access-care)

• The American Veterinary One Health Society (AVOHS) presented awards and conducted business at its annual awards breakfast on July 13, 2026, in Anaheim, California. (https://www.avma.org/news/american-veterinary-one-health-society-july-13-2026)

• The U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority finalized sweeping reforms to the veterinary market in September, capping prescription fees and requiring price lists, ownership disclosure, and itemized bills. Rollout begins in December for large chains, with smaller practices following in 2027. (https://www.avma.org/news/uk-veterinary-businesses-have-one-year-implement-major-reforms)

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National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America

• The Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) has been renamed to the VNI Practices & Standards Committee (VNIP&S) to better reflect its expanded role in developing professional standards, policies, and resources for the veterinary technology profession. While NAVTA remains committed to supporting the Veterinary Nurse title, the committee's broader mission is to advance the profession through credentialing, title protection, scope of practice, and professional resources. (https://navta.net/news/why-navtas-veterinary-nurse-initiative-committee-is-now-the-vni-practices-standards-committee/)

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STATES

Arizona Veterinary Medical Association

• The USDA is gradually reopening Southern ports to Mexican livestock imports, starting with Santa Teresa, New Mexico, for feeder cattle. The reopening follows a screwworm outbreak in New Mexico and Texas, with 51 confirmed cases in the U.S. and 2,055 active cases in Mexico. (https://azvma.org/avma-news-another-port-reopens-to-cattle-from-mexico-amid-nws-cases-nearby/)

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Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association

• The October newsletter provides the latest updates. It can be accessed by clicking on the provided link. (https://www.arkvetmed.org/2026-10-05/october-2026-newsletter/)

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California Veterinary Medical Association

• Dr. Jon Klingborg, a long-time CVMA member, has been appointed as the new Executive Director. He aims to address the growing tension between service affordability, professional liability, and practice economics in veterinary medicine. (https://cvma.net/meet-the-cvmas-new-executive-director/)

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Colorado Veterinary Medical Association

• Dr. Mike Lent installed CVMA's new Board of Directors on September 26, 2023, at CE West in Glenwood Springs, CO. Dr. Kayla Henderson, the Immediate Past President, encouraged CVMA members to volunteer and get involved in shaping the future of veterinary medicine in Colorado. (https://colovma.org/cvma-welcomes-newly-installed-board-members-for-2026-2027/)

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Georgia Veterinary Medical Association

• The Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine requires licensees to register and report their continuing education (CE) hours through CE Broker®. Out of the 30 required CE hours, 18 must be in scientific subject matter, 2 are in Georgia-specific laws, ethics, and professionalism (LEAP), and the remaining 10 can be in general professional development. (https://gvma.net/2026-10-05/how-do-i-report-my-ce-in-ce-broker/)

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New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association

• The New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association (NMVMA) is refreshing and expanding its Relief Veterinarian List to help practices manage temporary gaps and support member well-being. Veterinarians can add or update their information to be included in the list, which is a voluntary and self-reported directory. (https://nmvma.org/relief-veterinarians-supporting-colleagues-continuity-of-care/)

• The New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association's (NMVMA) initiative, Next Gen NMVMA, aims to connect students, early-career professionals, and established members within the veterinary community. It encourages established members to contribute by sharing their experiences, offering informal mentoring, and helping students discover opportunities in New Mexico. (https://nmvma.org/next-gen-nmvma-the-future-starts-with-connection/)

• The NMVMA's "Get Involved" page offers various ways for members to contribute, from small tasks like suggesting CE topics or reviewing resources, to larger commitments like joining committees or leadership roles. The goal is to create a shared resource where member experiences and expertise can be utilized to build education and support for the New Mexico veterinary community. (https://nmvma.org/the-power-of-we-get-involved/)

• The New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association's (NMVMA) public awareness campaign, "Caring for New Mexico," aims to educate the public about the broader role of veterinary medicine in the state. The campaign provides resources for veterinary teams to share with clients and encourages members to engage with the public through social media and community partnerships to build stronger connections. (https://nmvma.org/public-awareness-community-connection/)

• The New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association's (NMVMA) on-demand learning library offers flexible, accessible professional development opportunities for veterinary professionals. It encourages viewers to engage with their teams after watching the programs to discuss improvements in communication and team responsibilities. (https://nmvma.org/on-demand-ce-put-learning-to-work/)

• The best reason to visit the refreshed NMVMA website is to access resources that help you in your work, support your team, or connect with your profession. Start with the "Member Start" page, which serves as a central hub for various resources and tools. (https://nmvma.org/the-new-website-your-member-starting-point/)

• Veterinarian Recommended Solutions® (VRS) offers scientifically backed supplements for dogs and cats, along with home delivery and client support. The NMVMA supports this program as a resource for members, but it is not an endorsement of every product. (https://nmvma.org/allied-member-spotlight-vrs/)

• The New Mexico Veterinary Medical Association (NMVMA) offers a Career Center for job postings, connected to the AVMA Veterinary Career Community, to help practices advertise openings and job seekers find opportunities. Purchases through the Career Center support NMVMA's work on workforce recruitment and retention. (https://nmvma.org/new-career-center/)

• The NMVMA Advocacy Group, a nonpartisan PAC, supports state-level candidates and leaders who align with NMVMA's priorities, focusing on veterinary practice viability, patient safety, and fair competition. It conducts political education, fundraising, and lawful candidate support, with contributions accepted only from individuals using personal funds. (https://nmvma.org/pac-launch-purpose-priorities-participation/)

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New York State Veterinary Medical Society

• The New York State Veterinary Medical Society (NYSVMS) has been serving veterinarians since 1890 and offers resources for pet owners to find help. The society is organized into 12 regional chapters and provides programs based on areas of interest or specific needs. (https://nysvms.org/registration-still-open-for-nys-vc-online-and-on-demand-options/)

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Oregon Veterinary Medical Association

• Harmful algal blooms (HABs) can cause serious illness or death in pets and livestock due to cyanotoxins, with dogs being particularly vulnerable. These blooms can appear as foamy, scummy, or thick mats in various colors, and are not always monitored in Oregon waterways, so caution is advised. (https://www.oregonvma.org/toxic-algae-advisories)

• Rabies is a fatal viral disease transmitted through bites or saliva from infected animals, primarily affecting the nervous system. In the United States, while human cases are rare, animal bites are common, leading to thousands receiving post-exposure prophylaxis each year. (https://www.oregonvma.org/care-health/companion-animals/zoonotic-diseases/rabies)

UNIVERSITIES

Auburn University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• The importance of including pets and livestock in evacuation plans during natural disasters, such as Tropical Storm Isaias, is outlined in new guidance from Auburn. It provides detailed advice on preparing emergency kits for pets, securing large animals, and finding pet-friendly shelters. (https://www.vetmed.auburn.edu/blog/cvm-news/storm-ready-safeguarding-pets-and-livestock-from-hurricanes/)

• October 06, 2026: The Alabama One Health Symposium, hosted by Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine, will bring together professionals from various disciplines to discuss collaborative solutions for complex health challenges. The event, held on November 16, 2026, will focus on preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and other public health issues.

• October 01, 2026: Aurea, Auburn University's raptor ambassador, will likely miss pre-football game flights in 2026 due to a foot injury. She will be cared for by the Auburn University Raptor Center, with bald eagle Independence taking her place for the season.

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Colorado State University (College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences)

• Dogs and humans that have dementia show similar brain patterns, new research finds.

• CSU celebrates grand opening of new Veterinary Hospital and Education Complex.

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Iowa State University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. David Starling, an associate teaching professor of biomedical sciences at Iowa State University, has authored a new introductory textbook titled "Topics in Aquatic Animal Health," published by ISU Digital Press. The book covers essential concepts in aquatic animal medicine, including the aquaculture industry, water, anatomy and physiology, parasites, infectious diseases, nutrition, drugs, and biosecurity. (https://vetmed.iastate.edu/article/cvms-starling-publishes-book-on-aquatic-animal-health/)

• Five individuals were recognized with alumni and service awards during the College of Veterinary Medicine's Homecoming event on October 02, 2026. The awards ceremony took place at Frederick Douglass Patterson Hall, located at 1800 Christensen Drive in Ames, Iowa. (https://vetmed.iastate.edu/article/five-recognized-with-cvm-alumni-awards/)

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Louisiana State University (School of Veterinary Medicine)

• Juan Martinez and Basel Abuaita from LSU Vet Med have received an NIH R21 award to study how Rickettsia bacteria exploit cellular stress responses to cause disease. Their research focuses on the protein IRE1, which the bacteria activate to create a favorable environment for growth, and aims to identify new treatment targets. (https://www.lsu.edu/vetmed/blog/2026/martinez_abuaita_grant.php)

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Midwestern University (College of Veterinary Medicine, Glendale)

• Shahar Broitman and Pradyuth Thonse, both from the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) Class of 2029, have been selected for the Omega Beta Iota (OBI) National Osteopathic Political Action and Advocacy Honor Society. OBI recognizes osteopathic medical students and professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, civic engagement, and health policy advocacy. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/azcom-students-selected-omega-beta-iota-honor-society)

• Rhonda McGowan, a patient educator with the Amyloidosis Speakers Bureau, shared her personal experience with amyloidosis with students at Midwestern University's Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM). The presentation highlighted the importance of listening to patients and considering rare diseases, as students learned about the complexities of diagnosing and treating amyloidosis. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/patients-story-offers-lessons-future-physicians)

• Talia Coryat, a Clinical Psychology student at Midwestern University, is driven by her lifelong passion for helping people and her fascination with human behavior. She chose Midwestern for its small class sizes, interdisciplinary approach, and the opportunity to live in a new part of the U.S. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/student-spotlight-talia-coryat-clinical-psychology-student)

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Mississippi State University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. Merrilee Thoresen received the Research Professional Award for her work on mucosal immunity and synthetic mRNA therapies for cattle health. Dr. Amelia Woolums was a finalist for the Ralph E. Powe Research Excellence Award and received a patent for her work on treating respiratory diseases in cattle. (https://www.vetmed.msstate.edu/news/2026/10/four-cvm-researchers-recognized-mississippi-state-university-annual-research-awards)

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North Carolina State University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. Xinxia Peng is a professor of infectious diseases at NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, known for his interdisciplinary approach combining benchtop research and bioinformatics. He has received multiple NIH grants, including one for studying organ transplants with Duke University and another for investigating uterine function with NC State. (https://cvm.ncsu.edu/news/why-nc-states-peng-is-a-sought-after-scientific-partner/)

• The study found that most new Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections in hospital cancer units were introduced by patients who were infected but not symptomatic at the time of admission. The model developed by researchers suggests that asymptomatic colonized patients were responsible for 92% of transmissions that resulted in new colonizations, highlighting the importance of identifying and managing these patients to prevent future disease transmission. (https://news.ncsu.edu/2026/10/model-traces-c-diff-spread-in-hospital-oncology-units/)

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Oregon State University (Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. Maria Rosa de Jaureguizar Tesas has joined Oregon State University's College of Veterinary Medicine as an assistant professor of small animal emergency and critical care. She is excited to contribute to the growing ECC service and provide evidence-based, compassionate care while fostering a supportive learning environment. (https://vetmed.oregonstate.edu/all-stories/new-emergency-and-critical-care-specialist-excited-join-collaborative-hospital-culture)

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Purdue University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• The 2026 Purdue Veterinary Conference, themed "One Health: Modern Veterinary Medicine," attracted over 450 attendees from 30 states for three days of educational sessions, networking, and special events. The conference offered up to 23 continuing education credit hours and featured keynote lectures on the Human Animal Bond and Wellness, as well as a 50th anniversary celebration for the Veterinary Technology Program. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/annual-purdue-veterinary-conference-draws-veterinary-professionals-from-across-the-country-for-learning-and-fun.php)

• A researcher at Purdue University has received a $100,000 gift to support research on the deadly amoeba Naegleria fowleri, which causes a rare but typically fatal infection called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). The funding comes from the Jordan Smelski Foundation for Amoeba Awareness, established in memory of Jordan Cole Smelski, who passed away from PAM in 2014. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/significant-gift-from-jordan-smelski-foundation-will-fuel-purdue-veterinary-medicine-research-on-deadly-brain-eating-amoeba.php)

• Tiffany Chang, a Purdue veterinary student, is one of five recipients of the 2026 Sir John D. Spurling Scholarship from the AKC® Humane Fund, Inc. The scholarship, worth $2,500, supports students studying the well-being of dogs and responsible pet ownership. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/purdue-veterinary-student-receives-sir-john-d-spurling-scholarship-awarded-by-akc-humane-fund.php)

• The Purdue United Way campaign aims to raise $700,000 by November 04, 2026, to support local nonprofits in Greater Lafayette. The campaign, with the theme "What's Possible? Building Stronger Futures Together," includes various events and incentives to encourage participation from Purdue faculty, staff, and retirees. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/purdue-veterinary-medicine-unites-with-purdue-united-way-campaign.php)

• Dr. Yasumasa Iimori, a resident in Emergency and Critical Care at Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, was commended for his extraordinary compassion and care during a challenging emergency case involving a client's cat, Joey. The client appreciated Dr. Iimori's heartfelt communication and support during the difficult time of losing her pet. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/paws-up-for-dr-yasumasa-iimori-brought-to-you-by-the-pvm-wellness-committee.php)

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Texas A&M University (College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences)

• Collaborative research efforts at VERO (Texas A&M Veterinary Education, Research, & Outreach) are working to better understand Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) in cattle, a significant health challenge for the beef industry. The research focuses on the broader interactions within the respiratory microbiome and the cattle host, moving away from a narrow focus on individual pathogens. (https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/fresh-thinking-for-a-familiar-foe/)

• Hilda, a nearly 5-year-old Highland cow, overcame a mysterious medical condition and months of intensive wound care with help from the Texas A&M Food Animal Medicine & Surgery Service. Her resilience and the support of her owner, Sarah Tesch, led to her recovery and a permanent place at Tesch Hillside Ranch. (https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/highland-cow-wound-treatment-recovery/)

• The growing role of veterinarians in honeybee health is discussed, particularly since 2017 when federal rules required veterinary authorization for certain medications used in food-producing animals, including honeybees. It highlights the efforts of Texas A&M Bee Veterinarians (TBV), a student organization at Texas A&M's College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, which aims to educate future veterinarians about honeybee medicine, conservation, and beekeeping. (https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/texas-am-bee-veterinarians-honeybee-medicine/)

• Research found that the white-tipped feathers in chickens, known as mottling, are caused by at least three independent mutations in the same gene, EDNRB2. This discovery highlights how selective breeding has preserved genetic diversity and shaped the appearance of domestic chickens. (https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/chicken-mottled-feathers-genetics/)

• A study published in Nature is part of the Bat1K project, which aims to generate high-quality genome sequences for every living bat species. The research combined genomic data from 103 bat species with fossil evidence to build a more complete bat family tree, trace bats' geographic origins, and create a framework for investigating traits such as flight, echolocation, longevity, and disease resistance. (https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/bat-family-tree-flight-echolocation-evolution/)

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Tuskegee University (College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health)

• Tuskegee University offers over 60 academic programs and is ranked as the #4 HBCU in the nation. The university is notable for its Aviation Science Program, which has 64 students currently enrolled and is preparing to graduate its first cohort in May 2027. (https://www.tuskegee.edu/news/2026/10/Tuskegee-Aviation-Students-Represent-the-Future-of-Aviation.html)

• October 01, 2026: Tuskegee University offers over 60 academic programs and is ranked as the #4 HBCU in the nation. It is the only HBCU to offer ROTC programs for all military branches, including the Space Force, and has over 100 student organizations and championship sports teams.

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University of California, Davis (Weill School of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. David Guzman, chief of the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital's Companion Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery Service, was named the T.J. Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year. He was recognized for his clinical excellence, innovation, and significant contributions to the knowledge base of avian health care. (https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/index.php/news/uc-davis-exotics-specialist-wins-international-avian-practitioner-year-award)

• The UC Davis William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital will offer a one-year Small Animal Rotating Internship starting in the 2027-28 academic year, with five positions available. This program, not offered since 1980-81, aims to enhance clinical skills across various small animal specialties and will provide a comprehensive learning experience for recent DVM graduates. (https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/index.php/news/uc-davis-reinstate-small-animal-rotating-internship)

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University of Georgia (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. Canaan Whitfield-Cargile, UGA VetMed's first Faculty Innovation Fellow, aims to help colleagues advance their research findings from publication to practical applications. He will serve as a liaison between the college and UGA's Innovation District to foster partnerships and provide resources for commercialization. (https://vet.uga.edu/moving-research-findings-from-the-page-to-the-bedside/)

• Dr. Jeffrey Bryan, a veterinary oncologist, has joined the University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital to lead small animal medicine and advance cancer research. His innovative work includes a personalized cancer vaccine and immune cell therapy for dogs with bone cancer, which has led to human clinical trials for brain cancer treatment. (https://vet.uga.edu/uga-vetmed-welcomes-veterinary-oncologist-to-lead-small-animal-medicine-and-advance-cancer-research/)

• The "Cows and Coffee" event, held during the University of Georgia's homecoming week, brought together over 100 students from various majors to interact with dairy calves and learn about the biomedical physiology program and vet med opportunities. The event, organized by the biomedical physiology program and the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Dairy Science Club, aimed to foster student engagement and showcase educational and career paths in animal and human health. (https://vet.uga.edu/cows-and-coffee-brings-students-together/)

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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's Illinois Kids Development Study (IKIDS) has been tracking the health of children for over a decade, focusing on how chemical exposures, both prenatal and postnatal, influence cognitive development. The study has found associations between various chemicals, such as phthalates, bisphenols, and acetaminophen, and disruptions or delays in cognitive and language development. (https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2026-10-06/studies-offer-insight-into-common-chemical-exposures-and-child-cognitive-development/)

• An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus on an Illinois farm infected not only the farmer's backyard flock but also a domestic cat and wild rats. The virus, which had a mutation making it more adapted to mammals, was found in various tissues of the infected animals, including the rat's urine, raising concerns about potential new exposure routes. (https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2026-10-06/avian-influenza-spread-beyond-a-backyard-coop-on-an-illinois-farm-analysis-finds/)

• Dr. Sam Beeson, an assistant professor in the oncology service at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, initially planned to be an equine ambulatory vet but switched to oncology during his fourth year of vet school. He is passionate about improving patient care and safety, with research interests in cancer genetics and precision medicine. (https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2026-10-02/faculty-spotlight-sam-beeson-dvm-phd-dacvim-oncology/)

• New guidance from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine discusses emergency medication options for epileptic patients, including levetiracetam, phenobarbital, and clorazepate, which can be found at human retail pharmacies. It also provides tips on prescribing these medications, such as specifying the exact strength and frequency of administration. (https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2026-10-02/pharmacists-corner-emergency-medication-fills-for-seizure-patients/)

• The article discusses "neurophobia," the anxiety veterinarians experience when dealing with neurologic cases, particularly epilepsy. It introduces "Furensic Detective," a free app designed to help veterinary students and practitioners build confidence in managing neurology cases, starting with epilepsy. (https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2026-10-02/practicing-the-principles-of-seizure-management-furensic-detective/)

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University of Pennsylvania (School of Veterinary Medicine)

• The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine is building a new $94 million, 63,000-square-foot Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) at New Bolton Center, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. This new facility will consolidate and expand the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System (PADLS) and the Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology Research Laboratory (PETRL), enhancing their ability to provide faster diagnostic results and accelerate research in animal health, public health, and agriculture. (https://www.vet.upenn.edu/penn-vet-breaks-ground-on-state-funded-laboratory-to-speed-diagnoses-and-strengthen-pennsylvanias-animal-and-public-health/)

• Dr. Eric J. Parente, a professor of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, successfully performed a minimally invasive laser surgery to correct an ectopic ureter in Gallant Kitten, an Orlov Trotter filly. This procedure, which had only been performed twice before, allowed the filly to urinate normally and avoid more invasive and risky surgeries. (https://www.vet.upenn.edu/rare-russian-trotter-gets-relief-through-a-pioneering-penn-vet-surgery/)

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Utah State University (School of Veterinary Medicine)

• A groundbreaking study from Utah State University challenges a long-standing theory about pregnancy recognition in ruminants. The research, published in the Biology of Reproduction, found that sheep lacking functional receptors for type I interferons, including interferon tau, could still establish and maintain pregnancy, contradicting the accepted paradigm. (https://www.usu.edu/today/story/usu-research-challenges-the-accepted-paradigm-for-pregnancy-recognition-in-ruminants/)

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Virginia Tech and University of Maryland

• Virginia Tech met its 2026 incoming class goals with a record number of applications, despite national enrollment challenges. The university saw increases in transfer students, first-generation students, and maintained strong retention and graduation rates. (https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/10/CM-census-fall-2026.html)

• A study co-led by Virginia Tech researcher Qi Ye found that the brain's repair processes after a stroke can also support tumor growth. The findings suggest that glioma cells exploit the brain's repair mechanisms to progress, and the researchers are now investigating potential therapeutic targets. (https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/10/brain-s-response-to-stroke-may-advance-tumor-s-progression.html)

• A profile of a Virginia Tech student pursuing a DVM degree highlights her passion for veterinary medicine and public health. (https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/10/vetmed-student-spotlight-ramirez.html)

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Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine

• October 05, 2026: A puppy named Teedee, rescued from a hoarding situation, was diagnosed with a life-threatening heart defect by Washington State University (WSU) veterinarians. After successful surgery and recovery, Teedee was adopted by WSU veterinarian Laura Williams, who initially served as his medical foster. (https://vetmed.wsu.edu/rescue-puppy-overcomes-heart-defect-finds-forever-home-with-wsu-veterinarian/)

INDUSTRY INNOVATION

Dee Vet now ISO 13485 Certified

• October 05, 2026: Dee Veterinary Products is excited to annouce its ISO 13485 certification. The company sought the addition of this certification as part of its overarching committment to providing quality product and "supporting the art of healing pets."