Veterinary News - Oct. 10, 2026

NATIONAL

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

• The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has released two New World screwworm (NWS) infested zones and modified another, following APHIS' guidelines. This action removes NWS-related movement requirements for livestock and pets within these areas, but interstate and international movement requirements still apply. (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/texas-releases-new-world-screwworm-infested-zones-1)

American Animal Hospital Association

• The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has announced its 2026-27 board of directors, led by new President Dr. Bryan Clarke, with new directors Dr. Chelsea McGivney and Dr. Jenifer Wieneke. The board aims to improve the lives of pets, their caregivers, and veterinary professionals, with a focus on evolving professional needs. (https://www.aaha.org/news/aaha-names-dr-bryan-clarke-board-president-welcomes-two-new-directors/)

American Veterinary Medical Association

• During National Veterinary Technician Week, taking place October 18-24, 2026, the profession celebrates the critical role that credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinary technologists play on animal care teams. (https://www.avma.org/news/avma-continues-its-focus-supporting-veterinary-technicians)

• Veterinarians who invite clients into the decision-making process, rather than delivering a one-way message, see greater satisfaction, trust, and treatment adherence, says Dr. Jason Coe. He gave practical advice on how to implement relationship-centered communication during his keynote talk at the 2026 AVMA Veterinary Economic and Business Forum. (https://www.avma.org/news/understanding-client-needs-can-boost-adherence-treatment-plans)

• The quality of all relationships within a veterinary practice drives practice performance, says Dr. Jason Coe, founder of the research program Relationship-Centred Veterinary Medicine at the University of Guelph Ontario Veterinary College. (https://www.avma.org/news/keynote-speaker-provides-tips-building-successful-veterinary-teams)

• Pet owners continue to prioritize veterinary care but changing U.S. household demographics and growing affordability concerns are reshaping who owns pets and how they pay for that care. A panel at the 2026 AVMA Veterinary Business and Economic Forum, held virtually October 07-08, 2026, brought together experts from outside the veterinary industry to provide insights into their respective markets and frame a broader perspective. (https://www.avma.org/news/pets-still-priority-owners-amid-economic-pressures)

• Wharton School Marketing Professor Barbara Kahn, PhD, presented a strategic framework for business success based on lessons learned from the evolution of the retail industry in the past decade during her keynote presentation, "Competing Against the Noise: A Retail Perspective on Reaching Pet Owners," at the virtual 2026 AVMA Veterinary Business and Economic Forum on October 07, 2026. (https://www.avma.org/news/veterinary-practices-cant-win-todays-market-reputation-alone)

• The Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation announced a $250 million, five-year initiative called Big Bet for Pets to reduce barriers to veterinary care, funding nonprofit veterinary clinics nationwide. The first two grant programs are open now, with applications due December 16, 2026. (https://www.avma.org/news/maddies-fund-founders-pledge-250m-bolster-nonprofit-veterinary-clinics)

National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America

• In celebration of National Veterinary Technician Week, 20 veterinary technician students and recent graduates were awarded $2,500 each in tuition assistance as part of the 2026 Tuition for Technicians (T4T) Scholarship Program offered by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) and Boehringer Ingelheim. This program aims to support veterinary professionals throughout their careers and recognizes the essential role veterinary technicians play in animal health. (https://navta.net/news/navta-and-boehringer-ingelheim-announce-2026-tuition-for-vet-techs-scholarship-recipients/)

• NAVTA supports the use of the Veterinary Nurse title and believes it should be a long-term aspirational standard. NAVTA's immediate priority is to strengthen the veterinary profession through consistent credentialing, title protection, and defined scopes of practice, regardless of the terminology used. (https://navta.net/news/navta-response-to-navc-journal-name-change/)

• Applications for the ELEVATE leadership academy, aimed at final-year veterinary technician students and early-career technicians, are open until Friday, November 13, 2026. The six-month program, supported by NAVTA and other veterinary organizations, focuses on developing leadership skills in participants. (https://navta.net/news/elevate-the-veterinary-technician-leadership-academy/)

STATE

California Veterinary Medical Association

• The article announces the participants of the Donald G. Low/CVMA Clinical Veterinary Medicine Academy for the 2026–2027 academic year, Dr. Irene Nakaoka and Dr. John Nichols, and provides information on how to apply for the 2027–2028 program. (https://cvma.net/meet-the-2026-2027-donald-g-low-cvma-clinical-veterinary-medicine-academy-fellows/)

• The document discusses the CVMA's Upnotch platform, which offers free access to experienced colleagues for advice and mentorship, and the CVMA-PAC, a bipartisan political action committee focused on veterinary profession issues. (https://cvma.net/need-help-advice-look-no-further-than-your-cvma-colleagues/)

Florida Veterinary Medical Association

• As the fight against New World Screwworm (NWS) continues, awareness and preparedness are becoming increasingly important for Florida veterinarians. (https://fvma.org/new-world-screwworm-how-to-stay-prepared-and-prevent-the-spread/)

• Each year, as we progress as an association, I’m reminded of one of our greatest strengths as a profession: our commitment to lifelong learning and collaboration. (https://fvma.org/faep-committee-message-gerardo-diaz-dvm-2/)

• Culture is shaped by the actions and behaviors of leaders, what they pay attention to, what they reward or punish, and how they allocate their attention and resources. (https://fvma.org/creating-a-healthy-practice-culture-2/)

• Our ability to prevent and treat laminitis has improved dramatically in recent years. (https://fvma.org/new-developments-in-the-diagnosis-and-treatment-of-laminitis/)

• Florida ranks as the third-largest state in the nation, with a population of more than 400,000 horses. The equine industry in the Sunshine State is crucial to the economy, with services such as horse showing, competitions, breeding, farming, training, and therapy generating billions of dollars in revenue. (https://fvma.org/planning-ahead-of-time-how-to-develop-and-execute-your-equine-evacuation-plan/)

UNIVERSITIES

Auburn University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• The Seales family adopted a black dog named Rocket from an animal shelter. After Rocket was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, the family honored his memory by naming an exam room in the Bailey Small Animal Teaching Hospital's oncology wing after him. (https://www.vetmed.auburn.edu/blog/cvm-news/rockets-legacy-powers-care-for-future-patients/)

Louisiana State University (School of Veterinary Medicine)

• Meghan Wall, a first-year veterinary student at LSU Vet Med, created an ink illustration of two canine skulls to highlight anatomical variations and their clinical relevance. This artwork is part of her ongoing project to merge visual art with veterinary education, aiming to make complex medical knowledge more accessible and engaging. (https://www.lsu.edu/vetmed/blog/2026/drawing_anatomy.php)

Midwestern University (College of Veterinary Medicine, Glendale)

• Dr. Kim is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy at Midwestern University’s Downers Grove Campus, where she teaches anatomy with a full-body dissection lab to medical and physical therapy students. Her research focuses on how human bone changes with age and how these changes can be used to identify people from skeletal remains. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/faculty-spotlight-jieun-kim-phd)

• The document announces a free five-part educational series titled "Healthy Seniors: Practical Tips for Living Well and Staying Healthy," presented by Midwestern University Clinics at the Downers Grove Public Library. The series, held on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m. in November and December, will cover topics such as vision, oral health, strength and balance, and communication, with the aim of helping older adults maintain their health and independence. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/midwestern-university-presents-healthy-aging-series-downers-grove-library)

• The articulation agreement between Midwestern University and Benedictine University offers enhanced admissions opportunities for qualified Benedictine students in health sciences graduate and professional programs at Midwestern University, starting with students matriculating in fall 2027. Qualified applicants may receive guaranteed interview opportunities or acceptance into select programs, provided they meet specific academic and admissions requirements. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/midwestern-university-benedictine-university-establish-new-healthcare-education-pathways)

• Midwestern University held White Coat Ceremonies for over 1,000 first-year students on its Downers Grove and Glendale campuses, marking their entry into the healthcare profession. The white coat symbolizes the responsibility and commitment to lifelong learning, service, and professionalism that students are preparing to carry. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/white-coat-ceremonies-welcome-midwesterns-future-healthcare-team-profession)

• The new articulation agreement between Midwestern University and Saint Xavier University offers qualified students enhanced admissions opportunities for select health sciences programs. Beginning in fall 2027, qualified Saint Xavier University applicants will be eligible for guaranteed interviews or acceptance into various programs at Midwestern University's College of Pharmacy, Chicago College of Optometry, College of Health Sciences, and College of Graduate Studies. (https://www.midwestern.edu/news-stories/midwestern-university-saint-xavier-university-expand-educational-opportunities-students)

Oregon State University (Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Oregon State University has launched a canine total hip replacement (THR) surgery program for dogs with severe hip conditions. The program, led by Dr. Shantibhushan Jha, aims to restore mobility and eliminate pain for dogs, and is supported by the hospital's multidisciplinary specialty team. (https://vetmed.oregonstate.edu/all-stories/new-canine-total-hip-replacement-program-removes-source-pain)

Purdue University (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Craig Weiderhaft, a phone communications and front desk representative at the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, was recognized for his outstanding professionalism, dedication, and positive interactions with clients and students. The PVM Wellness Committee encourages staff, faculty, and students to submit Paws Up nominations to acknowledge and appreciate their colleagues. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/paws-up-for-craig-weiderhaft-brought-to-you-by-the-pvm-wellness-committee.php)

• The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine's Evan and Sue Ann Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center focuses on studying canine cancer to improve treatments for both dogs and humans. The center's researchers, including Dr. Deborah Knapp and Dr. Michael Childress, work on personalizing treatments, honing protocols, and exploring new drugs for cancers like bladder cancer, lymphoma, and osteosarcoma, which have similar progressions in dogs and humans. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/dogs-across-the-midwest-find-customized-care-at-the-evan-and-sue-ann-werling-comparative-oncology-research-center.php)

• The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine is actively participating in the 2026 Purdue United Way Campaign, aiming to raise $20,000, with Dean Bret Marsh and his wife pledging to match the first $5,000 contributed by faculty and staff. The campaign, themed "What’s Possible? Building Stronger Futures Together," supports local nonprofit organizations and runs through November 04, 2026. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/faculty-and-staff-contributions-move-purdue-veterinary-medicine-toward-goal-for-purdue-united-way-campaign.php)

• Dr. Raymond E. Plue, a Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumnus, passed away at 81. He was known for his contributions to veterinary medicine, particularly in pathology and pharmaceutical research, and his extensive service through Rotary International. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/in-memory-dr-raymond-e-plue-pu-dvm-68.php)

• The 2026 Dr. Skip Jackson Dog Jog was a successful event with 195 participants, raising $7,390 for the Priority 4 Paws Shelter Medicine Program. The event included friendly competition among departments and classes, with the Reed Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory and the DVM Class of 2030 emerging as winners. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/annual-dr-skip-jackson-dog-jog-grows-in-participation-and-dollars-raised.php)

• Dr. Jan Hawkins, a professor emeritus at Purdue Veterinary Medicine, has been awarded the Al and Carolyn Schiller Distinguished Service Award by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) for his decades of dedicated service and leadership. Dr. Hawkins has held numerous leadership roles within the ACVS and has significantly contributed to the organization's strategic direction and professional development initiatives. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/pvm-professor-emeritus-jan-hawkins-receives-prestigious-award-from-acvs.php)

• The Purdue Veterinary Technology Distance Learning (VTDL) Program team recently held an in-person retreat to strengthen collaboration and explore new teaching opportunities. The two-day event focused on professional development, strategic planning, and fostering connections among remote and on-campus team members. (https://vet.purdue.edu/news/retreat-brings-together-veterinary-technology-team-members.php)

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

• The research conducted by Dr. Kathleen Aicher and Ph.D. student Lea Poellmann at Texas A&M University has revealed that Heterobilharzia americana, a type of flatworm, is more prevalent in dogs than previously believed, with infection rates approaching 28% in some Texas populations. Their work has also shown that the parasite can affect a wider range of dog breeds than initially thought, including those not traditionally associated with water exposure. (https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/drake-project-dog-parasite/)

Universidad Ana G. Mendez

• Xiorimar Meléndez Vachier, a graduate of the Veterinary Technology program, has represented Puerto Rico in national and international barrel racing competitions. In March 2026, she participated in the National Agropecuary Fair in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and secured the second place in the qualifying round and the sub-championship in the final, becoming the first international competitor to achieve such a position. (https://uagm.edu/es/sobre-UAGM/noticias/egresada-de-tecnologia-veterinaria-sobresale-en-competencias-nacionales-e)

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

• Dr. Denis Marcellin-Little, a professor at UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine, has been named President of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). He assumed the role at the 2026 ACVS Surgery Summit and will represent ACVS at various national and international meetings. (https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/index.php/news/dr-denis-marcellin-little-becomes-president-american-college-veterinary-surgeons)

• The Veterinary Genetics Lab, led by Professor Rebecca Bellone, won the Lab Safety Award in the Weill School of Veterinary Medicine. The lab, which tests DNA for over 220,000 animals annually, was recognized for its commitment to safety and teamwork, with safety officer Natalia Ocampo playing a key role. (https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/index.php/news/veterinary-genetics-lab-wins-lab-safety-award)

• UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine students presented research projects at the 2026 ACVS Surgery Summit. The students, including fourth-year DVM students Dylan Caro and Rohit Chopra, and third-year DVM student Tyler Misraje, impressed the audience with their presentations and exceptional performance. (https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/index.php/news/uc-davis-well-represented-annual-surgery-conference)

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

• Dr. Patrick Barko, an assistant professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Veterinary Medicine, focuses his research on understanding how gut microbes and their compounds regulate intestinal health and disease. He aims to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for chronic gastrointestinal disorders in pets and people by studying the associations between tryptophan-derived microbial compounds and these diseases. (https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2026/10/12/research-spotlight-patrick-barko/)

University of Missouri-Columbia (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Grace and Lily Kent, twin sisters, are entering the clinical phase of their veterinary education at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. They have pursued veterinary medicine together since childhood, driven by their shared love for animals and science, and are now beginning to build distinct careers in the field. (https://cvm.missouri.edu/built-in-best-friends-future-veterinarians/)

University of Pennsylvania (School of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. Dipti Pitta, a professor at Penn Vet New Bolton Center, has received a $1.5M grant to build a new calf nursery and housing for heifers. This facility will help understand the impact of early-life care on a cow's health and productivity, and serve as a training ground for veterinary students. (https://www.vet.upenn.edu/new-usda-rfap-funded-calf-and-heifer-facilities-at-penn-vets-marshak-dairy-to-advance-dairy-health-and-productivity/)

• Dr. Kyla F. Ortved, an associate professor of large animal surgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, has been awarded the first ACVS Rising Star Award for her exceptional achievements in equine orthopedics and minimally invasive surgery. Her research focuses on regenerative medicine for osteoarthritis, contributing to both veterinary and human orthopedic medicine. (https://www.vet.upenn.edu/penn-vets-kyla-ortved-named-first-recipient-of-acvs-rising-star-award/)

University of Tennessee, Knoxville (College of Veterinary Medicine)

• Dr. Girish Neelakanta, a professor at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, has been appointed as a standing member of the NIH's Transmission of Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases Study Section, a significant professional honor that recognizes his expertise in tick-borne infectious diseases. His appointment will last until June 30, 2030, during which he will evaluate grant applications and contribute to the NIH peer-review process. (https://vetmed.tennessee.edu/professor-girish-neelakanta-appointed-as-a-standing-member-to-nih-review-study-section/)

Virginia Tech and University of Maryland

• The document features a profile of Marjorielee Christianson, a Licensed Veterinary Technician at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, highlighting her role, experiences, and passions. (https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/10/vetmed-staff-spotlight-miles.html)

• The document features an interview with Marjorielee Christianson, a licensed veterinary technician at the Animal Cancer Care and Research Center, who shares her experiences and insights about her work. (https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/10/vetmed-staff-spotlight-greer.html)

• The document highlights the experiences of three public health students who participated in the Virginia Department of Health's Internship Academy, detailing their various projects and the impact of their internships on their understanding of public health. (https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/10/vetmed-student-service.html)

SOCIAL

Bondi Vet

• Chris and his team successfully performed a blood transfusion on a three-day-old alpaca named Jersey, who was born prematurely during a bushfire evacuation. The procedure saved Jersey's life, and he is now fully recovered and playing with his mom. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHql74lq-OQ)

• Penny, a swamp buffalo, has horns growing into her skull, which is life-threatening. Chris and Jeff sedate her and trim her horns to save her life. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9FlMDuZWeI)

• A vet named Chris travels to Christmas Island to help an endangered Abbott's Booby seabird named Bill, who has a deformed wing. Meanwhile, a small dog named Patchy Girl undergoes surgery at SASH to treat her collapsing trachea. Additionally, a two-headed blue tongue lizard named Janice is discovered and cared for at the Australian Reptile Park. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA1vnKhrWSg)

• A sulfur-crested cockatoo named Kettle, found injured after falling from his nest, is treated at the Bondi Clinic. Meanwhile, a rescue dog named Olivia undergoes a heart procedure at SASH, and a police puppy named Ken recovers from a jaw abscess. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5NyFR7dqkE)

• A TV show about animal rescue and veterinary care follows the stories of several animals, including a kitten named Little Boy who undergoes surgery to repair a hernia and a puppy named Bowie who swallows a chicken bone. The show also features a segment on animal therapy for special needs children and a visit to a dingo rescue. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yokAgfwR3Ag)

Clinician's Brief

• The podcast "Veterinary Breakroom" features Dr. Alyssa Watson and Dr. Beth Molleson discussing the rise of Gen Z cat owners and cat dads, as reported by the American Pet Products Association, and its potential impact on small animal practitioners. The hosts also mention resources from Zoetis and provide contact information for the podcast. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iU9uVklnN6M)

• The podcast episode discusses four recent studies on new uses for established drugs in veterinary medicine. The studies cover the use of oclacitinib in cats, bezofibrate for hypertriglyceridemia in dogs, fosmidomycin for bacterial otitis externa, and intraasal levetiracetam for seizures in dogs. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fR1rGYJQ7Yg)

The Supervet - Noel Fitzpatrick

• Noel Fitzpatrick and his team perform complex animal surgeries, showcasing the deep bond between humans and their pets. Each operation is personal and emotional, highlighting the resilience and hope in every recovery. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDgd3VYWgEM)

• Oz, an adventurous cat, broke his ankle after a dramatic fall. Ollie, an eight-month-old Labrador puppy, was rushed to Fitzpatricks as a late-night emergency after being hit by a car. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqbudDbFlic)

• The Supervet: Noel Fitzpatrick follows renowned veterinary surgeon Noel Fitzpatrick and his team as they perform complex surgeries on animals, showcasing emotional journeys and remarkable recoveries. The show highlights the extraordinary bond between humans and their pets, with each case being a race against time and a testament to hope and resilience. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgVo20eA0rc) • Eight critically injured animals arrive at Fitzpatrick Referrals, and Noel Fitzpatrick and his team perform extraordinary operations to save them. The cases include Otis, Teddy, Tiger, Lara, Lolli, Willow, Scooby, and Pixie, each with their own unique challenges and stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLrtE3UrvCI)

• The Supervet: Noel Fitzpatrick showcases the work of veterinary surgeon Professor Noel Fitzpatrick and his team at Fitzpatrick Referrals, featuring complex and high-risk animal surgeries. The show highlights emotional journeys, incredible recoveries, and inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and second chances for pets. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtEK8Yk4tLc)

The Veterinary Roundtable

• The Veterinary Roundtable episode features guests Dr. Kristen Schmidt and Kendall Rose discussing Project Street Vet, a program providing veterinary care to homeless and low-income communities. They share heartwarming patient stories, discuss licensing fears, and offer insights on volunteering and handling the emotional toll of the work. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQA7xsqmfck)

Veterinary Channel

• Mammalian chlamydiosis is a significant infectious disease with veterinary, reproductive, and zoonotic implications. This video discusses the major Chlamydia and Chlamydia-related pathogens affecting mammals, focusing on transmission, clinical disease, prevention, and control. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8Au30vXNqM)

• Chronic kidney disease in cats is a progressive and irreversible loss of renal function, commonly affecting older cats. Early detection is crucial for slowing the disease's progression and maintaining the cat's quality of life. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bApZxSYxHoc)

Veterinary Secrets

• Dr. Andrew Jones discusses the early signs of poisoning in dogs and what pet parents should watch for. He also provides links to videos and articles on topics like inducing vomiting in pets, toxic foods, and pet first aid skills. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqgO1RsUlgQ)

• Dr. Andrew Jones discusses the risks and side effects of Apoquel, a common allergy medication for dogs, and suggests safer alternatives like omega-3 fatty acids, quercetin, and licorice root. He emphasizes the importance of safe medication storage and quick action in case of accidental ingestion. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zewt64n_xdQ)