Aesculapian - University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
Aesculapian - University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
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Cabernet Franc grapes were among the first varietals planted at Crane Creek Vineyardsin Young Harris, Ga.13FacultyNews3133 Tompkins receives Fulbright Scholarship for research in Australia33 C<strong>of</strong>field named new associate dean <strong>of</strong> graduate school33 CVM pr<strong>of</strong>essor promotes FAMACHA© program in Australia34 Glisson now leads U.S. Poultry Foundation Research35 More tools in the arsenal: CVM researchers combat tuberculosisCoverIn late September, thesegrapes are almost ready forthe harvest at Crane CreekVineyard in Young Harris, Ga.Photo by Sue Myers SmithImage courtesy <strong>of</strong> Fred Quinn35AlumniNewsMycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria(green) attached to the outside <strong>of</strong>human lung cells.3939 A Message from the President <strong>of</strong> the Alumni Association40 A new President: Dr. Flynn Nance41 Class Notes43 Distinguished Alumni honored44 Mueller and Waggoner win 2012 fraternity awardsFind us!facebook.com/ugacvmtwitter.com/ugavetmedflickr.com/photos/ugavetmedyoutube.com/ugavetmedfoursquare.com/ugavetmed45 Fundraising Update: The <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Learning Center46 Why I Give...
<strong>College</strong>NewsJackwood now heads Department <strong>of</strong> Population HealthMark W. Jackwood, a molecular virologist known forhis work in avian diseases, has been appointed tohead the <strong>College</strong>’s department <strong>of</strong> Population Health. Thedepartment includes the <strong>College</strong>’s Food Animal HealthManagement and Laboratory Animal <strong>Medicine</strong> programs,as well as the Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center(PDRC) and the Southeastern Cooperative WildlifeDisease Study (SCWDS).Jackwood joined the <strong>College</strong> in 1989 and is basedin the PDRC. His primary research focus is the field <strong>of</strong>respiratory viruses, particularly avian coronaviruses,infectious bronchitis virus and avian influenza. He codevelopedand co-owns patents on a rapid diagnostictechnique for infectious bronchitis and an aviantherapeutic compound; he has a third patent pending onan infectious bronchitis virus vaccine.“We conducted an international search for thisimportant leadership position in the <strong>College</strong>,” saidDean Sheila W. Allen. “We had an outstanding field <strong>of</strong>candidates, including Dr. Jackwood. We are fortunateto have someone with Dr. Jackwood’s breadth <strong>of</strong>experience and outstanding reputation lead this importantdepartment in the <strong>College</strong>.”Jackwood’s research has earned him numeroushonors and awards, including the Creative ResearchMedal from UGA’s Research Foundation; the PfizerAnimal Health Award for Research Excellence, the highestresearch honor awarded by the <strong>College</strong> and one that hehas received twice; the Upjohn Achievement Award forOutstanding Contributions to the Field <strong>of</strong> Avian <strong>Medicine</strong>Research, awarded by the American Association <strong>of</strong> AvianPathologists; and the Bruce W. Calnek Applied PoultryResearch Achievement Award.During his time at UGA, Jackwood has served boththe <strong>College</strong> and the <strong>University</strong> in various capacities.Currently, he serves as chair <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Veterinary</strong> MedicalAgricultural Research Committee, a member <strong>of</strong> theApplied Life SciencesFaculty Research GrantsReview Committee,as member <strong>of</strong> theCDC/UGA InfectiousDisease Review Panel,a member <strong>of</strong> theFaculty <strong>of</strong> InfectiousDiseases ExecutiveCouncil, a member<strong>of</strong> the <strong>University</strong>Council, a member <strong>of</strong>the <strong>University</strong> CouncilCommittee on Facilities,and a member <strong>of</strong> the<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> Ethics Committee.“It is truly an honor to be selected to lead anoutstanding group <strong>of</strong> faculty and staff in this importantposition in the <strong>College</strong>,” said Jackwood, who assumedhis position on Dec. 15, 2011. “I look forward to workingwith my friends and colleagues here at the <strong>University</strong>, inthe poultry industry, and in livestock and wildlife healthmanagement programs across the state.”Since 2001, Jackwood has served as secretary/treasurer <strong>of</strong> the Southern Conference on Avian Diseases.In 2011, he co-organized the first International AvianRespiratory Disease Conference, held in Athens andattended by 179 scientists. He is also an active member <strong>of</strong>the American Association <strong>of</strong> Avian Pathologists and serveson the organization’s advisory board for avian diseases.He is a member <strong>of</strong> multiple pr<strong>of</strong>essional organizations,and has served as a reviewer or editor <strong>of</strong> more than 25pr<strong>of</strong>essional publications worldwide.Jackwood earned his BS and MS degrees at the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> Delaware and his PhD in the department <strong>of</strong>poultry science at The Ohio State <strong>University</strong>.Photo by Sue Myers Smith<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 4
Photo by Flint BuchananPhoto by Sue Myers Smithget consistent results,the process then movesto further trials whichultimately will benefitanimals and humans.”“Fracture repair inanimals is really, reallyvital because they are notgood patients,” continuesPeroni. “You can’t tell ananimal not to walk aroundon a fracture repair.I am very optimisticabout applications <strong>of</strong> this in the veterinary field as it mayexpedite healing so that recovery times and treatment costscan be substantially decreased.”For Dr. Ulrike M. Korte, an internist in humanmedicine practicing in Alpharetta, a PRP treatmentcombined with stem cell injections were recommendedfor her horse, Liberty, in October 2010. Liberty was lamedue to a problem in his right leg flexor tendon. She tookLiberty to the UGA Teaching Hospital, where Peroni spoketo her about the different types <strong>of</strong> treatment involving RM.“Dr. Peroni was excellent at explaining the process,”says Korte. “There is a huge commitment to this treatmentand it is important to know what you are getting into interms <strong>of</strong> timing andLindsey Helms Boone(DVM ’08), a graduatestudent, works inPeroni’s stem cell lab.rehabilitation. But,to have this type <strong>of</strong>treatment availableis awesome and Iam convinced it isgoing to help a lot <strong>of</strong>animals. This is onlythe beginning.”In a routinefollow-up with anultrasound fourweeks after thetreatment, Libertyhad experienced anearly full recovery,and followingseveral months <strong>of</strong>Dr. John Peroni collects blood from ahorse. After it is collected, the blood willbe transferred to the laboratory for thepreparation <strong>of</strong> Platelet Rich Plasma.rehabilitation, Liberty is now being ridden again.Liberty is just one example <strong>of</strong> the positive impact<strong>of</strong> RM, but there are other potential benefits <strong>of</strong> stem celltherapy that are constantly being studied. Areas that Peroniand the other UGA RMS researchers are investigatingright now range from studies <strong>of</strong> logistics, including thebest way to transport stem cells, to investigating the antiinflammatoryeffects <strong>of</strong> MSCs. Peroni explains that mostdiseases and injuries result in significant inflammation andthat stem cells have been shown to reduce inflammation ina biological way without using medications.“Using stem cells to modulate inflammation is arealistic goal to accomplish relatively quickly,” says Peroni.The impact <strong>of</strong> cellular therapies in animals issignificant. Taken together, cell products or blood-derivedproducts may complement traditional therapies, with theend result being a faster and improved healing process.The quicker veterinary patients can return to functioningnormally, the better. This can lead to a decreased financialburden on animal owners and an increase in the quality<strong>of</strong> life for both owners and their animals. Additionally,by improving the quality <strong>of</strong> tissue healing with thesetreatments, it’s less likely the animal will hurt itself again,which is vital to return them to normal functioning.And, all <strong>of</strong> these research implications translate fromanimals to humans.“It is important to remember that stem cells arecross-species and this is not a veterinary-specific branch <strong>of</strong>science,” Peroni concludes. “It is wide-spread and not onlyabout horses. There are lots <strong>of</strong> human applications.”<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 6
Photo courtesy <strong>of</strong> Natalie Toneybeen through the Hospital and subsequent CommunityPractice Clinic (CPC) over the years, while Toney hasbeen witness to an evolution at the VTH.“The biggest change has been the tremendousgrowth,” says Toney. “These days there is so muchspecialization, too. And, when I started cominghere years ago it was all men. Now the students arepredominantly women.”The increased specialization is something that Jackand Janet Damhorst have noticed, too. The Damhorstshave been clients since 1975 when their veterinarianreferred their German Shepard, Shiloh, to the Hospital.“There are so many different branches <strong>of</strong>specialization that you have now that you didn’t haveyears ago,” says Janet Damhorst.The Damhorsts, who have brought several familypets to the VTH over the years for serious issuesranging from bladder infections to cancer to orthopedicsurgeries, moved to Athens from Alpharetta in 2008,opening up new opportunities for involvement with the<strong>College</strong>. When their daughter, who stayed in Athensfollowing graduation from UGA, suggested they starttaking their dogs to the Community Practice Clinic(CPC), it was a logical step for the Damhorsts because <strong>of</strong>their previous experience at the VTH.Kathy Frye (DVM ‘13) examinesFrancie.Photo by Sue Myers SmithNatalie Toney with Francie.“When you are walking through the doors <strong>of</strong>the Hospital, you have a serious issue,” explains JackDamhorst. “The biggest assets that give us confidenceand reassurance coming over here are that you havestate-<strong>of</strong>-the art technology with excellent faculty andwell-trained students, and you always have multiple sets<strong>of</strong> eyes looking at this serious problem. And that’s thebiggest confidence factor for the Clinic, too. “The Damhorsts admit that it is a time investmentcoming to the CPC since it will almost always takelonger for an appointment at a teaching clinic, butfor them, there is a comfort in knowing their petshave been thoroughly checked over by multiplepeople.Another reason the Damhorsts keep coming backis that they know the students in the Hospital and CPCare carefully supervised by faculty members.“Every time we had a pet at the Hospital,” JanetDamhorst says, “we always had some contact with ateaching faculty member. We know it’s a team backthere working.”The same thing is true at the CPC with the studentsupervision under the direction <strong>of</strong> Dr. Ira Roth.<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 10Photo by Sue Myers Smith
Photo by Laura SmithPhoto by Laura SmithJack and Janet DamhorstJudith DePaola and one <strong>of</strong> her dogs, Logan.“Dr. Roth is such an asset to the CPC,” explains JackDamhorst. “His knowledge and personality combinationserve Athens well.”For the Damhorsts, an added benefit <strong>of</strong> bringing petsto the VTH for more than 35 years is working with thestudents — a few <strong>of</strong> whom were family friends. “There wasone student we ran into at the Hospital a few years agowhom we have known since she was playing t-ball at fouryearsold,” recounts Mrs. Damhorst. “It is a neat experienceto run into kids you have known most <strong>of</strong> their lives and itis always good to talk with them.”It is that same mission <strong>of</strong> working with the studentsand helping to further their education that has kept JudithDePaola coming back over the years. DePaola first broughther dog, Maggie, to the VTH to be spayed back in 1984and 28 years later, she is still bringing animals to the CPC.“It’s important to me to give back to the <strong>University</strong>that meant so much to me,” says DePaola, who now bringsher two dogs, Nicole Grace and Logan, to the CPC forroutine care. “I want to help the students learn and if I cando something to contribute, I will continue to take myanimals there as long as the students are learning.”In addition to routine care, the CPC also <strong>of</strong>fers puppytraining classes, in which DePaola enrolled Logan, her1-year-old black Labrador Retriever, after the puppy atethrough two pairs <strong>of</strong> expensive eyeglasses.The biggest change DePaola has been witness to overthe years, other than the CPC’s move to a free-standingbuilding, is that the files have been computerized.“Maggie used to have a huge file,” says DePaola. “Nowall the information is accessed through a computer.”While helping students learn may have been herinitial reason for coming to the CPC, DePaola emphasizesthat compassionate care and good customer service arebonuses.“I can honestly say that every student I have hadcontact with has had an extra level <strong>of</strong> compassion andcare,” said DePaola. “And, when a veterinary technicianor faculty member comes out to greet you and asks aboutyour dog, or recognizes you from class, that extra touchmakes you feel very welcome.”And it keeps them coming back through the years.For MoreInformationFor more information on our Teaching Hospitalor our Community Practice Clinic:www.vet.uga.edu/hospital706.542.3221 or hospital@uga.eduTo make an appointment at the CPC,call 706.542.198411The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>
News from the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching HospitalCardiology Service Features ExpandedProceduresThe Cardiology Service at the UGA<strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching Hospital (UGAVTH) now <strong>of</strong>fers several interventionalprocedures for congenital heart disease.These procedures have been madepossible by the addition <strong>of</strong> a newfluoroscopy imaging system introduced tothe hospital in 2011.The new procedures include:Balloon Valvuloplasty (BVP)Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)OcclusionHeartworm ExtractionPacemaker ImplantationElectrical CardioversionThe introduction <strong>of</strong> these procedurespositions the UGA VTH as <strong>Georgia</strong>’s mostcomprehensive small animal cardiologycare center.Emergency & Critical Care Service NowOffers Continuous Renal ReplacementTherapy (CRRT)The UGA VTH is now the only veterinaryhospital in <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>of</strong>fering ContinuousRenal Replacement Therapy (CRRT), orhem<strong>of</strong>iltration/hemodialysis services, withits recent purchase <strong>of</strong> a Gambro Prisma.CRRT is primarily used to treat acuterenal failure that is unresponsive totraditional treatment, especially whenaccompanied by oliguria/anuria or fluidoverload.The new services are administered bythe VTH’s two critical care doctors, Dr.Amie Koenig and Dr. Benjamin Brainard,along with the VTH’s staff <strong>of</strong> veterinarytechnicians and critical care residents. Dr.Koenig is board-certified in emergency/critical care and internal medicine; Dr.Brainard is board-certified in emergency/critical care and anesthesia.Picture Your Pet Photo ContestReturns!After a hiatus, the VTH’s popular PictureYour Pet Photo Contest is returning. AnyVTH or Community Practice Clinic (CPC)client is invited to submit their pet’s photo,along with a brief written description.Photos will be accepted through August31 and winners will be announcedOctober 1. The winning pictures will bedisplayed in the VTH.Visit www.vet.uga.edu/GO/photo-contestfor more details or to enter.Call for EntriesPicture Your Pet Photo Contest★ Photos must be <strong>of</strong> high-resolution using a camera 6megapixels or higher★ A brief description <strong>of</strong> the picture and/or pet must accompany each entry★ Open to any UGA <strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching Hospital or Community Practice Clinic client★ Winning entries will be displayed in the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching Hospital★ Visit vet.uga.edu/GO/photo-contest for more detailsSubmissions will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. August 31, 2012.To submit your photo, please visit:vet.uga.edu/GO/photo-contestTHE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA ®<strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching Hospital* Photos can also be loaded on a non-returnable disk and dropped <strong>of</strong>f at the VTH or CPC, ormailed to: The UGA <strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching Hospital, Attn: Picture Your Pet Photo Contest,501 DW Brooks Dr., Athens, GA 30602
Photo by Sue Myers SmithPhotos and story bySue Myers Smith
Dr. DeAnne Livingston (DVM ’88) and herhusband, Eric Seifarth, purchased the landfor Crane Creek Vineyards in 1995, thesame year that Livingston purchased her veterinarypractice in Blairsville, Ga. They planted their firstvines that same year, but it took until about 2001for them to have enough grapes to begin producingwine. The pair met while serving in the U.S. Army—Livingston in the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Corps and Seifarthas an artillery <strong>of</strong>ficer—and became interested inthe lifestyle associated with owning and running awinery while they were stationed for several yearsin Northern Italy. “We fell in love with wine in Italy,and were drawn to the connection you make withthe land when you grow grapes and make wine,” saysLivingston.The original house on the property wasbuilt in 1886 and now serves as the winery’s tastingroom. The couple lived in the old home with theirtwo young sons when they first moved to YoungHarris, but built a new house in 2000. In early 2011,they converted that home into a space that couldaccommodate their growing events calendar, andmoved into the vineyard cottage in anticipation<strong>of</strong> building a new home. The couple says that it’sdifficult to just be a winery—you have to havea hospitality side as well. Since the event side <strong>of</strong>their business has been growing, Livingston hasbeen working more and more with their tastingroom general manager, David Sanford, in additionto working full-time at her veterinary practice inBlairsville.The goal is for the vineyard to be able toproduce 6,000 cases <strong>of</strong> wine per year; currently theymake about 4,200. They plant additional vines eachyear, particularly on an adjacent tract <strong>of</strong> land theypurchased in 2010. Once they’ve reached their idealproduction level, they will thin the vines so they areproducing fewer fruits per plant, thus increasing thequality <strong>of</strong> the grapes they get from each vine.The vineyard is staffed by three to four fulltimeemployees, including vineyard manager RussellShannon and assistant winemaker Matt Matteson, aswell as seasonal pickers, vineyard techs, and even anintern, all <strong>of</strong> whom participate in the fall harvest.Livingston with adachshund puppy inthe waiting room atBlairsville AnimalHospital, her veterinarypractice in Blairsville,Ga. The clinic is about12 miles from hervineyard home in YoungHarris. Livingston is anavid folk-art collector,always keeping her eyesopen for pieces such asthe large-scale paintingin the background. Thepainting was a gift fromthe late Jon Whiddon,who also produced theartwork for their winelabels.
The harvest begins in early September and runsthrough early October—and it’s all hands on deck toget the vines picked at just the right time. In 2010, theharvest yielded 83,000 pounds <strong>of</strong> grapes; because <strong>of</strong>late spring frosts, however, Livingston and Seifarthexpected about half that amount from the 2011 harvest.To combat any future losses from frost, the vineyardinvested in a wind machine that circulates warm airfrom above the ground toward the grapes below.Grape picker Ashley Kelly snips undesirablegrapes from a cluster during the harvest.Assistant winemaker MattMatteson picks grapes duringthe fall 2011 harvest.
Jacky Fortier pours a glass<strong>of</strong> Mountain Harvest Blushin the Crane Creek tastingroom. Fortier has been withCrane Creek since 2007,and started the popular“Wine 4 Women” monthlywine education series.Eric Seifarth cultivatesa plot in the late springbefore planting new vinesin May 2010.Two <strong>of</strong> Crane Creek’s award-winning wines, theSeyval Blanc from their Barn Swallow label, andHellbender Red, are both produced from a singlevarietal. The Hellbender Red is particularly uniquebecause it is made from Norton grapes, a varietynative to America. The Hellbender has won threeawards, including a Gold Medal at the 2010 SanFrancisco Chronicle Wine Competition. TheSeyval Blanc was made from grapes from the firstvines planted at Crane Creek; at the San FranciscoChronicle Wine Competition, this wine took homethe 2009 Silver Medal and was the highest-ratedSeyval.
graduated from UGA with his DVM in 1983.“I enjoyed private practice, but I always wanted todo something with a bigger impact,” says Daley, whopracticed in Chamblee, Ga., for 12 years. “I was alwaysinterested in the CDC, but I didn’t see a pathway as aclinical veterinarian.”Eventually, Daley got his MPH from Emory<strong>University</strong> and received a fellowship to work at the Foodand Drug Administration before joining EIS in 1997.While finding a channel into public health was difficult forDaley, he says that his veterinary background translatedwell into his new career.“The training we get as veterinarians gave me a clinicalperspective that was also applicable to human health,” saysDaley. “That time in practice was valuable and gave me aclient-focused perspective that many <strong>of</strong> my colleagues [atEIS] didn’t have — now, my client is the public.”Clinical veterinarians play a crucial role in the health<strong>of</strong> individual animals, but the education veterinariansreceive as students follows the principles <strong>of</strong> populationhealth, something that is not emphasized as much inphysician training. The undeniable link between animalhealth and human health — now referred to as One Health— places veterinarians in a unique position to affect both.It’s veterinarians who are interested in this animal-humaninterface that go into public health, according to Hamilton.L. Rand Carpenter (DVM ’98), an EIS grad now inthe Tennessee Department <strong>of</strong> Health, worked in dairypractice before moving to Haiti as a consultant on theelimination <strong>of</strong> lymphatic filariasis, where his interest inpublic health was piqued.“Treating the ill individual, whether it’s an animalor a human, usually isn’t the most effective way to dealwith disease transmission in populations,” says Carpenter.“Prevention is more effective, and veterinarians understandthat, especially those involved in agriculture.” Workingon a dairy farm is not much different from working withhuman populations, according to Carpenter. “The switchfrom dairy to humans may seem extreme to some,” hesays, “but it’s all about the approach — that emphasis onprevention and disease distribution.”“Veterinarians make excellent epidemiologists becausewe’re trained in population health,” says Kirk Smith (PhD’95), a veterinarian and EIS alumnus who now works assupervisor <strong>of</strong> the Food-borne, Vector-borne and ZoonoticDisease Unit for the Minnesota Department <strong>of</strong> Health.Photo by Christopher B. HerronPhoto courtesy <strong>of</strong> L. Rand CarpenterLaura Adams (DVM ’11; MPH ’12) completed her DVM and MPHat UGA before becoming an EIS <strong>of</strong>ficer in 2012.L. Rand Carpenter (DVM ’98), right, and a colleague distributeoral vaccine baits as part <strong>of</strong> the 2006 USDA raccoon oral rabiesvaccine campaign in Tennessee.<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 20
A History <strong>of</strong> the Epidemic Intelligence Service1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 20101951- Threat <strong>of</strong>biological warfare, EISstarted1955- Polio epidemic1957- Asian flu1961- Cancer cluster1966- Smallpoxeradication1968- Malnutritionand famine1971- Lead exposure1974- Vinyl chloride1976- Lassa fever,Ebola, Legionnaire’sDisease1978- Reye Syndrome1980- Toxic shocksyndrome1981- HIV/AIDS,Toxic-Oil Syndrome1984- Intentionalfood poisoning1987- HIVseroprevalence survey1989- Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome1992- HurricaneAndrew1993- E. coli1994- Cryptosporidiumin drinking water1995- Kidney failurein Haitian children1999- West Nile Virus2000- Bioterrorism2001- 9/11, anthrax2003- SARS2005- HurricaneKatrina2009- H1N1Centers for Disease Control and PreventionPhoto courtesy <strong>of</strong> Laura Edison“Veterinarians exist in large part for human healthbecause animals serve human needs.”It is becoming more common to see veterinariansworking in state health departments, internationalorganizations and federal agencies alongside physiciansLaura Edison (DVM‘03) on a veterinaryexternship in SouthAfrica.and scientists, identifying and responding to diseaseoutbreaks. While the first veterinarian was accepted intoEIS in 1953, the number <strong>of</strong> veterinarians in the programremained low until recent decades.Now, the odds are good that your stateepidemiologist or veterinarian went throughEIS. About half <strong>of</strong> state epidemiologists are EISgraduates, and most veterinarians working at CDCnow — there are around 80 — got their start in EIS,according to Hamilton.Laura Edison (DVM ’03) began working at theCDC after seven years <strong>of</strong> clinical practice, and willbegin EIS in the summer with Laura Adams. Anexternship during veterinary school in which sheshadowed several public health veterinarians, most<strong>of</strong> whom were EIS grads, sparked her interest inpublic health, but she wanted to practice clinicalmedicine before making the switch.While earning her MPH at Emory, she workedin the National Center for Environmental Healthand the One Health <strong>of</strong>fice.“I think the MPH coupled with the veterinary21The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>
training gives us an edge over MDs coming straight out<strong>of</strong> residency,” says Edison. “The MPH exposed me to thewide range <strong>of</strong> opportunities in public health and showedme how our diverse training as veterinarians can apply toso many different areas.”With growing concerns over emerging zoonoticinfections, bioterrrorism and food safety, veterinaryschools and public agencies are beginning to recognize thevalue <strong>of</strong> having veterinarians on the public health team. Atleast 10 <strong>of</strong> the country’s 28 veterinary schools <strong>of</strong>fer dualdegree DVM/MPH programs, including UGA, making thedecision to become a public health veterinarian easier interms <strong>of</strong> cost and time spent in school.“I would probably have made the switch five yearsearlier if the path had been there,” says Daley.Learning by doingEIS might bring to mind images <strong>of</strong> the movieContagion, in which Kate Winslet portrayed an EIS <strong>of</strong>ficerin the midst <strong>of</strong> a deadly outbreak; the reality is a lessdramatic, but just as vital in protecting the health <strong>of</strong> thepopulation.Officers in the program do more than takeclasses; they apply their skills in real-world situations.Veterinarians were on the front lines during the H1N1epidemic and have investigated everything from multidrugresistant tuberculosis to human plague to a rabidhippo in Kenya.While most veterinarians in EIS lean toward zoonoticdiseases, they aren’t limited to any one area or division.Daley worked in environmental health during his time inEIS, responding to natural disasters and environmentallyinducedillnesses like lead exposure in Russian childrenand chemical exposure on a Sioux reservation. Carpenterparticipated in one <strong>of</strong> the first campaigns to distribute fluvaccines in a Tennessee school system.EIS <strong>of</strong>ficers also have the opportunity to impactpolicy, one <strong>of</strong> the most effective tools used to improvepublic health, through their investigations, particularly forfoodborne illness — such as incorrect product labeling orinadequate monitoring <strong>of</strong> production. “Working in publichealth allows me to actually affect public policy,” says KirkSmith, “and that’s very gratifying.”Most <strong>of</strong> the veterinarians who graduate from EISstay with local and state health departments, or continueto work for the CDC. A few go into academia, but it israre for any to go back into private veterinary practiceonce they’ve had a taste <strong>of</strong> working from a populationstandpoint.Whether they go straight into public health orpractice before switching career trajectories, there’s nodoubt that veterinarians play an essential role in improvingthe health and safety <strong>of</strong> people and animals.“Working in public health gives you an idea <strong>of</strong> justhow many things you actually touch as a veterinarian,”says Edison.For MoreInformationFor more information on EIS, visitwww.cdc.gov/eis<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 22
StudentNewsDr. Renee Barber, an intern on the hospital’s Neurologyservice, will receive funding from the Morris AnimalFoundation for companion animal studies. Dr.Barber’s work involves mapping genes associated withinflammatory brain disorders in dogs.Dr. Bradley Heins (DVM ’11) received the 2012 Western<strong>Veterinary</strong> Conference Food Animal Incentive Award,given by the Western <strong>Veterinary</strong> Conference to fiveveterinarians engaged in a university or private practiceinternship or residency in food animal medicine, surgery,production medicine, theriogenology or epidemiology.Heins is a graduate student in the department <strong>of</strong>population health earning his master’s <strong>of</strong> food animalhealth and management.Dr. Robert Holly (DVM ’14) was accepted into the UnitedStates Army’s Health Pr<strong>of</strong>essions Scholarship Program.Erica Noland (DVM ’14) was selected as a Morris AnimalFoundation Fellow, and awarded a $4,000 grant for herresearch on the role <strong>of</strong> chromatin remodeling proteinsin chromosome instability in canine mammary glandcarcinomas.Jenna Shafer (DVM ’14) received the OutstandingSophomore Student Award for having the highestcumulative grade point average in the second-year class.As part <strong>of</strong> her award, Shafer will serve as vice president <strong>of</strong>the Phi Zeta Committee for one year.Winners* at the 2011 Science <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> Research SymposiumBest Overall Oral Presentation:Leo Sage (DVM ’16)Oral Presentations:<strong>Veterinary</strong> StudentsFirst place: Leo Sage (DVM ‘16)Graduate StudentsFirst place: Vijay Durairaj (Infectious Diseases)Second place: Ming Fung (Pathology)Third place: Kyung-il Kang (Infectious Diseases)Post-DocsFirst place: Patricia Jorquera (Infectious Diseases)Second place: Claudia Baumann (Physiology andPharmacology)Third place: Abhijeet Bakre (Infectious Diseases)Interns/ResidentsFirst place: Natalia Andrade (Resident, Surgery)Second place: Jill Maney (Resident, Anesthesiology)Third place: Andrew Bugbee (Resident, Internal <strong>Medicine</strong>)Poster Presentations:<strong>Veterinary</strong> StudentsThird place: Sarah Hooper (DVM ’13)Graduate StudentsFirst place: Sean Rowley (Infectious Diseases)Second place: Simon Odera Owino (Infectious Diseases)Third place: Monique Franca (Pathology)Post-DocsFirst place: Ying Cheng (Poultry Diagnostic and ResearchCenter)Second place: Tracy Sturgill (Large Animal)Third place: Xuefeng Niu (Pathology)Interns/ResidentsFirst place: Balasubramanian Manickam (Resident, Pathology)Second place: Ross Larson (Intern, Small Animal)Third place: Bryan Torres (Resident, Surgery)* This event is open to all undergraduate and graduate students at UGA.Only CVM winners are represented here.23The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>
Valentine’s Day onCapitol HillPhotos and story by Hannah Jackson (DVM ’14)While some people spent Valentine’s Day this yearwith their sweethearts, I spent it at our nation’sCapitol lobbying for the veterinary pr<strong>of</strong>ession. OnFebruary 13, 2012, veterinary students from each <strong>of</strong>the Student American <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Association’s30 chapters and two associate schools converged inWashington, D.C., to learn how we could impactlegislation about veterinary matters. Let me walk youthrough my two days at the 4th Annual AVMA <strong>Veterinary</strong>Student Legislative Fly-In.The first day we received an introduction fromDr. Ashley Morgan, assistant director for the AVMAGovernmental Relations Division (GRD), and a videowelcome from Dr. Ron DeHaven, chief executive <strong>of</strong>ficer <strong>of</strong>the AVMA, who was so personable, even via video, that Iwas tempted to clap at the end <strong>of</strong> his welcome. Gina Luke,another assistant director for the GRD, explained howthe division works with the rest <strong>of</strong> the AVMA to supportor oppose proposed legislation in the national and stategovernments.This introduction was followed by a panel with formerGRD Fellows, Dr. Doug Meckes and Dr. Whitney Miller.The AVMA Fellowship Program provides veterinarianswith an $80,000 stipend to live in Washington, D.C., and topromote the AVMA’s scientific agenda to the U.S. Congressfor one year.Not all GRD Fellows are new graduates, evidencedby Dr. Meckes, who had been a private practitioner andmulti-hospital owner for 30 years. He is now actingdirector <strong>of</strong> the Food, Agriculture and <strong>Veterinary</strong> DefenseDivision <strong>of</strong> the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> Homeland Security andaims to run for mayor <strong>of</strong> Apex, N.C., in 2014. A few words<strong>of</strong> wisdom from this highly experienced man: Get involvedin the pr<strong>of</strong>ession, get involved in the community, andconsider getting involved on a widespread scale.Dr. Miller, a new grad when she became a Fellow,echoed the phrase that vet students hear repeatedly atconferences and veterinary meetings nationwide: Theskills we learn in veterinary school will not only equipus to practice veterinary medicine, but also enable us towork in several arenas because we’ve learned how to buildrelationships, think critically and problem-solve.In preparation for our legislative sessions, we wentover the two pieces <strong>of</strong> legislation for which we wouldbe advocating while on Capitol Hill: The Fairness toPet Owners Act and The Animal Fighting SpectatorProhibition Act. We also learned about big state issuesunder review right now, such as bills in multiple NewEngland states that would prohibit gestation crates for sowsand tethering <strong>of</strong> veal calves, bills fining or prohibiting thesale <strong>of</strong> unsterilized cats and dogs, and several state bills infavor <strong>of</strong> or opposing horse slaughter, to name a few. Most,if not all <strong>of</strong> the state bills reflect a clear intent to protectanimals, but some are directed more by conscience thanscience.By 9 a.m. on Valentine’s Day, we were on Capitol Hillin the Ag Hearing Room in the Longworth House Officelistening to Nebraska Rep. Adrian Smith, one <strong>of</strong> AVMA’smost active supporters in Congress. Rep. Smith furtherstressed the need for veterinarians to give their feedbackabout veterinary issues to Congress because <strong>of</strong> their uniqueknowledge.We were then released on the Hill to do ouradvocating. My day <strong>of</strong> advocacy was highly rewarding,although exhausting. I was awed and honored to walkwhere our forefathers walked and to talk with staff aboutimportant issues, and I am so grateful to have beenafforded this enlightening opportunity.The AVMA <strong>Veterinary</strong> Student Legislative Fly-Inwas a great introduction to show how easy this can be.I honestly believe that Congress values our informedopinions and appreciates when we take time to share ourconcerns.I urge all <strong>of</strong> you to get involved, put together yourthoughts about proposed legislation — veterinary andnon-veterinary — and send them to your congressionalrepresentatives and senators. Your unique perspectivecould be the viewpoint that tips the scale one way or theother on how they vote on issues critical to our pr<strong>of</strong>ession.25The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>Hannah Jackson (right) and Amanda DiMascio (DVM ‘15)
CVM students selected for bovine externship programCVM students Isaac Hardee (DVM ’15), Sarah Holladay (DVM ’14) and Rachel Patrick(DVM ’15) have been selected to participate in the 2012 Pfizer Bovine Externship Program, an externshipopportunity that is available to first- and second-year veterinary students at 28 veterinary schools across theUnited States.The program, which is supported by Pfizer Animal Health, will provide a $2,000 stipend for each studentfor the four-week summer experience. During that time students will work with hosting veterinary clinicsor cattle operations, where they will be exposed to different areas <strong>of</strong> bovine veterinary practice. Studentsare expected to complete a project focusing on either dairy or beef operations and prepare a report andpresentation about their experience.By providing students with experience in livestock medicine, the externship seeks to guide studentstoward careers in cattle practice.Graduate StudiesEarn your:MS and PhD in <strong>Veterinary</strong> and Biomedical SciencesIf you want a career in translational or clinical research.DVM-MPHIf, as a veterinarian, you want to address public health issues inenvironmental health, infectious diseases, global health, biosecurity,epidemiology and/or health policy.DVM-PhDIf you want a career that will integrate clinical knowledge in comparativemedicine to address questions in applied or basic research.Master’s in Avian <strong>Medicine</strong> or Food Animal Health and ManagementIf you’re a veterinarian looking for advanced training in poultry or foodanimal medicine.vetgrad@uga.edu 706.542.5752www.vet.uga.edu/research/students
UGA veterinary students establishAthens Pet Food BankBy Alexandra LanierVolunteers place dog foodinto bags to distribute topet owners in need.Photo by Sue Myers SmithStudents at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> have partnered withfaculty and community organizations to providefood for dogs and cats in need.The number <strong>of</strong> pets whose owners arehomeless is growing at an astounding rate. Manypet owners cannot afford to feed and care for theirpets and end up relinquishing them to shelters.CVM rising third-year student Alan Powerparticipated in the Leadership UGA program infall 2011, and was shocked to learn just how poorAthens is — 33.5 percent <strong>of</strong> Athens residents livebelow the poverty level. In response, he decidedto create a program to aid the pets <strong>of</strong> the homelesspopulation and others in the community whostruggle to care for their companion animals.After working with a mobile veterinarianwho understood the responsibility <strong>of</strong> servicing thehomeless population in Savannah, Ga., Power sawthe need to make a positive change in the Athensarea.Power says that the rigors <strong>of</strong> the academicprogram at the veterinary school <strong>of</strong>ten mean beingcut <strong>of</strong>f from the community beyond the campus.He wanted to have a personal connection withmembers <strong>of</strong> the Athens community, so he put outfeelers for the idea <strong>of</strong> providing pet food to petowners in need and got a positive response withinthe vet college from faculty, staff and students.Drs. Mary Hondalus and Janet Martin, both CVMfaculty members, approached Power and werewilling to help.Hondalus, an associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor at the CVMwho also directs the <strong>College</strong>’s dual DVM/MPHdegree program, wants her students to assist thepublic as well as animals. “We serve animals, yes,but we serve people as well,” says Hondalus.Hondalus has been in Athens for seven yearsand, like Power, realizes the extent <strong>of</strong> poverty inthe area. She wants her students to serve eventhose not actively seeking veterinary care; studentsin her program are encouraged to work withunderprivileged communities to help individualskeep their pets healthy.Janet Martin, adviser for the CVM’s Shelter<strong>Medicine</strong> club, was eager to be involved. Martin27The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>
will help expose students to not onlythe needs <strong>of</strong> pets in shelters but alsoways to work in the community to keeppets in their homes. She believes thatexposing future veterinarians to theplight <strong>of</strong> impoverished pet owners in thecommunity and educating them about theways in which veterinarians can intervenewill prevent more pets from becomingshelter statistics.By including her students inthis project and encouraging theirparticipation in the pet food collectionsand distributions, Martin hopes they willgraduate with a fuller understanding <strong>of</strong>the community and their roles in it.Heather Tucker, a DVM-MPHdual-degree student and president <strong>of</strong> theShelter <strong>Medicine</strong> Club, has also becomeinvolved in the efforts. She wants tocomplete an internship and residency tobecome a shelter medicine veterinarian.She hopes that her efforts with the foodbank will help to deter the public fromrelinquishing their animals to shelters.“The fields <strong>of</strong> public health and shelter medicineoverlap in many ways,” says Tucker. “I hope to educatethe public so that fewer pets are relinquished to alreadyovercrowded animal shelters. As veterinarians, we have aresponsibility to help not only animals, but the people whoown them as well.”How the program worksTo obtain dog and cat food to be distributed, foodis collected continuously throughout the year in largedonation bins placed in high-traffic areas <strong>of</strong> the vet college.Student volunteers periodically sort the food and re-bag itinto one-gallon plastic bags for easier distribution to thosewho might have a limited ability to store and transport thefood. It is then handed out on a weekly basis to registeredparticipants at Our Daily Bread (717 Oconee St.).The Athens Area Humane Society, an Athens PetFood Bank partner, also provides pet food for owners inneed. Pet owners can fill out an online application andqualified applicants can make appointments to pick up amonth’s supply <strong>of</strong> food.Participants agree that the main goals for the AthensPet Food Bank are to provide a needed service to thecommunity, provide opportunities for UGA studentsto learn about issues involving pet owners in all areasFrom left: Dr. Mary Hondalus, Food Bank advisor; Alan Power (DVM ’14), founder <strong>of</strong> theAthens Pet Food Bank; Dr. Janet Martin, Food Bank advisor; and Heather Tucker, president<strong>of</strong> the Shelter <strong>Medicine</strong> Club<strong>of</strong> the Athens community, and provide ways to supportthe maintenance <strong>of</strong> the human-animal bond, therebydecreasing the number <strong>of</strong> pets going into shelters. Andthey feel that their efforts are proving successful.An Athens-area homeless man with a well-knowndog, “Cheeseburger,” has already told volunteers he isexcited about the program and using the pet food bank.The program, in addition to making a difference in thecommunity, is also providing students and faculty with lifeexperiences that go beyond veterinary college.“It started as a project idea, and now it’s a realprogram that is making a positive difference in ourcommunity,” says Power.For MoreInformationVisit: www.vet.uga.edu/GO/petfoodbankPhoto by Sue Myers Smith<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 28
A t h e n s P e t F o o d B a n kHow It WorksAthens-area pet owners may registerthrough Action Ministries, Advantage BehaviorsHomeless Services Program, and the AthensArea Humane Society.Registered pet owners may pick up foodon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at OurDaily Bread (717 Oconee St.).Participants must be 18 or older, and havea combined household income <strong>of</strong> less than$20,000. Homeless individuals can register onThursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the HomelessDay Service Center (95 North Ave.). Otherscan register on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.at Action Ministries (717 Oconee St.).Alternately, people can apply for temporaryassistance through a partnering program withthe Athens Area Humane Society. Their fooddistribution is monthly and by appointment.For more information, contact the Athens AreaHumane Society: 706.706.AAHSHow To HelpDonate FoodConvenient Drop <strong>of</strong>f: Pet food donationsmay be left at any <strong>of</strong> the collection bin locationsin the Athens area.Convenient Budgeting: Pledge to drop <strong>of</strong>f agiven amount <strong>of</strong> food on dates you scheduleahead throughout the year.Donate Pet Care SuppliesWe also gladly accept new or gently used andclean collars, leashes, food bowls, blankets, petbeds, etc.Donate Funds or TimeFor information about donating money or time,or for a complete list <strong>of</strong> drop-<strong>of</strong>f locations andother information, visit us online:www.vet.uga.edu/GO/petfoodbankShelter <strong>Medicine</strong> at UGAShelter medicine is a growing specialty in veterinarymedicine and students at UGA have been showinginterest in such a program for several years. A studentrunShelter <strong>Medicine</strong> Symposium has been held annuallyat the CVM since 2009. These seminars allow sheltermedicine pr<strong>of</strong>essionals, DVMs and students to hearfrom speakers in various areas <strong>of</strong> shelter medicine. Inaddition, they are free and open to the local animalsheltering community, providing a forum to spread newinformation and exchange ideas. For more informationon the annual Shelter <strong>Medicine</strong> Symposium, contactHeather Tucker at hntucker@uga.eduDr. Janet Martin joined the CVM in 2011, andis the faculty adviser for the Shelter <strong>Medicine</strong> club.Martin researched other schools with similar programs,then she spoke with numerous members <strong>of</strong> the CVMcommunity, both faculty and students, to gauge theinterest level and was met with great enthusiasm. Martinsays that she is greatly encouraged by the excitementand interest students have shown, and is lookingforward to creating many more opportunities forthem to enhance their understanding <strong>of</strong> their roles asveterinarians in the community.29The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>
Soyoung KwonFirst graduate <strong>of</strong> the PhD in <strong>Veterinary</strong>and Biomedical SciencesSoyoung Kwon, who came to the U.S. in 2008 fromSouth Korea, is the CVM’s first graduate <strong>of</strong> the PhDin <strong>Veterinary</strong> and Biomedical Sciences Program. ThePhD-VBS program is designed to broaden the scope<strong>of</strong> biomedical training and research by includinggraduate faculty and resources <strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong>’s clinicaldepartments with those in the basic sciences.What did you do before coming to UGA?I pursued <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> in Seoul, South Korea,where thoroughbred racing is an important sport anda major industry. After my veterinary training, I spentthree months at the Equine Health Center at the KoreanRacing Authority as a visiting veterinarian before joiningthe graduate program at UGA in 2008.What made you want to pursue the PhD in<strong>Veterinary</strong> and Biomedical Sciences?During vet school training, I realized that researchin basic and clinical sciences is essential for a betterunderstanding <strong>of</strong> disease pathogenesis and theimprovement <strong>of</strong> treatment regimens. I became interestedin continuing my study with a focus on clinical sciences,especially equine medicine. The UGA CVM has one <strong>of</strong>the greatest equine research teams, and has variousresearch topics that interest me, like equine colic andlaminitis. Both conditions are major issues in equinehealth and I joined the team with the hope that I mightbe able to help horses suffering from such diseases.Which pr<strong>of</strong>essors greatly influenced youduring your time at UGA?There were so many outstanding mentors, includingsJim Moore, Tom Robertson, Michel Vandenplas, andDavid Hurley. They all have different backgrounds fromclinical sciences to molecular biology, and the uniqueperspectives each <strong>of</strong> them bring to the field broadenedmy understanding <strong>of</strong> medicine. I was truly fortunateto have worked with them, not only because <strong>of</strong> theirincredible insights as scholars, but also because <strong>of</strong> theirthoughtful and endless support <strong>of</strong> my studies.What aspects <strong>of</strong> the program were the mostbeneficial to you?My knowledge <strong>of</strong> equine immunity and diseases thatI gained while studying at UGA gives me a deeperunderstanding <strong>of</strong> the diseases I see at the clinic. I am alsocontinuing my latest clinical research to measure serumconcentrations <strong>of</strong> flagellin and anti-flagellin antibodies inhorses with colic.What are you doing now and what are yourgoals for the future?I shifted gears back into clinical settings, and I amcurrently working at Alamo Pintado Equine MedicalCenter in California as an intern. My goal aftercompleting my clinical internship is to continue intoan equine medicine residency, which is necessaryto accomplish my long-term goal <strong>of</strong> devoting myexperiences and knowledge to improve animal healthand welfare.Photo courtesy <strong>of</strong> Soyoung Kwon
Steve Budsberg, Karen Cornell, MaryAnn Radlinsky,Chad Schmiedt (DVM ’00), Ben Brainard and ErikH<strong>of</strong>meister.Dr. Tom Robertson, an associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor in thedepartment <strong>of</strong> Physiology and Pharmacology, was namedthe <strong>Georgia</strong> BioBusiness Center Entrepreneur <strong>of</strong> the Yearby the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> Research Foundation. Dr.Robertson was recognized for his work launching IS3DLLC, which develops interactive learning products forscience education. Dr. Robertson is also the recipient<strong>of</strong> a Creative Research Medal from the UGA ResearchFoundation.Dr. Corrie Brown, a pr<strong>of</strong>essor inthe department <strong>of</strong> Pathology, wasinducted as an honorary facultymember into the AgriculturalHonor Society (AGHON).AGHON is an honor societyencompassing the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong>Agriculture and EnvironmentalScience, the Warnell School<strong>of</strong> Forestry, and the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>.Brown (center)Drs. Karen Cornell, Kate Creevy, Ajay Sharma, FlintBuchanan, James Moore, and medical illustrator BradGilleland were awarded a $5,000 Innovative InstructionFaculty Grant for their project, “Computer AidedRadiographic Diagnosis <strong>of</strong> Canine Abdominal Diseases.”The grants are <strong>of</strong>fered by the Office <strong>of</strong> the Vice Presidentfor Instruction in collaboration with the Office <strong>of</strong> theSenior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost forfaculty projects designed to improve teaching and learning.Drs. Bridget Garner and Maria Viveiros were selectedas Lilly Teaching Fellows. The fellowship is <strong>of</strong>fered bythe Center for Teaching and Learning, and is designedto provide instructors with opportunities to strengthentheir teaching skills. Garner is an assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essorin the department <strong>of</strong> Pathology, and Viveiros is anassistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor in the department <strong>of</strong> Physiology andPharmacology.2012 Phi Zeta Award CeremonyDr. Xiaoqin Ye, an associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Physiology andPharmacology, was awarded the John M. Bowen Awardfor Excellence in Animal/Biomedical Research, sponsoredby Pfizer. Ye’s studies <strong>of</strong> reproductive mechanisms willhelp lead to therapeutics to treat reproductive diseases inhumans and animals.Dr. Shiyou Chen was awarded the Pfizer Awardfor Research Excellence for his contributions to hisdepartment, Physiology and Pharmacology, as well as tothe at-large research community. Chen serves on NIH andAmerican Heart Association review panels, and reviewsmanuscripts for several medical journals.Dr. Kate Creevy, an assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> internalmedicine, received the Outstanding Hospital ServiceAward for her role in re-vamping the consultation processfor the <strong>Veterinary</strong> Teaching Hospital’s Internal <strong>Medicine</strong>service. Creevy has also coordinated the hospital’sinternship program for the past three years, and hashelped implement beneficial changes in the program.Drs. Marc Kent and Simon Platt were awarded the DavidTyler Award for Advances in Teaching, sponsored byPfizer, for their work in developing a web-based tool tohelp students learn clinical neurology, neuroanatomyand neurophysiology. Kent is an associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong>neurology and Platt is a pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> neurology.Dr. Corey Saba, an assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> veterinaryoncology, received the Clinical Research Award, sponsoredby Pfizer, for her contributions toward understanding theuse <strong>of</strong> chemotherapeutic agents in animals, including thespecific dosages used to treat neoplasia in small animals.Inductees: Dr. Robert Gogal, an associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong>immunology and immunotoxicology; Dr. Michelle Turek,an assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> radiation oncology.New FacultyDr. Tai Guo, associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor, Anatomy and Radiology<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 32
Tompkins receives FulbrightScholarship for research in AustraliaPhoto by Andrew Davis TuckerCVM associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor Mark Tompkins hasbeen selected to receive a 2012 Fulbright U.S. SeniorScholarship to undertake research on Hendra and Nipahviruses in Australia. Tompkins and his family will live inGeelong, Australia, for roughly five months beginning inAugust 2012.Tompkins will be working at the AustralianAnimal Health Labs (AAHL), which are part <strong>of</strong> theCommonwealth Scientific and Industrial ResearchOrganization, Australia’s national science agency. AAHLis an internationally recognized BSL3/BSL4 facility capable <strong>of</strong> studying highconsequenceand emerging infectiousdiseases in small and large animals.While there, Tompkins’ workTompkinswill focus on the development <strong>of</strong>therapeutic drugs for Hendra andNipah viruses, highly-pathogeniczoonotic viruses that pose a seriousthreat to human and animal healthin Australia, as well as in other parts <strong>of</strong> the world. Thereare currently no effective vaccines or treatments for thesepathogens, and Tompkins’ project will be to develop novelantiviral approaches for their treatment.Nipah virus, first identified in pigs, has caused over200 human fatalities in Asia since 1999 with evidence <strong>of</strong>human-to-human transmission and a mortality rate above50 percent. Hendra virus, which infects bats, horses andnow humans, has also been observed in Australia, withthe first outbreaks reported in 1994 and rising sharplysince 2007.Tompkins is based within the CVM’s department <strong>of</strong>Infectious Diseases.C<strong>of</strong>field named new AssociateDean <strong>of</strong> Graduate SchoolDr. Julie C<strong>of</strong>field has been named the newAssociate Dean <strong>of</strong> the Graduate School at the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong>. Dr. C<strong>of</strong>field has been involvedin graduate training and administration with the<strong>University</strong> for the past 17 years. She is an associatepr<strong>of</strong>essor in the department <strong>of</strong> Physiology andPharmacology within the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> and was the director <strong>of</strong> the InterdisciplinaryToxicology Program, a campus-wide program thatincludes students and faculty from several differentcolleges who share common interests in the field <strong>of</strong>toxicology.Dr. C<strong>of</strong>field will serveas the chief <strong>of</strong> operations forthe Graduate School, whereshe will work closely withthe Graduate School staff inAdmissions and EnrolledStudent Services. Her focuswill be on student affairs andprogram management as sheassists Graduate Coordinators.She also will help theC<strong>of</strong>fieldGraduate School implementits 2020 Strategic Plan.Photo by Nancy EvelynCVM pr<strong>of</strong>essor promotes FAMACHA© program in AustraliaDr. Ray Kaplan, a pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> parasitology in thedepartment <strong>of</strong> Infectious Diseases at the CVM, traveled toAustralia in February to promote the use <strong>of</strong> FAMACHA©among sheep and goat producers. Kaplan, the director<strong>of</strong> the U.S. FAMACHA© program, presented threeworkshops on integrated parasite control, which includedinstruction and hands-on training in the FAMACHA©method. He also presented four research seminars whilevisiting Australian universities.FAMACHA© is a clinical on-farm systemdeveloped in South Africa for classifying animals intocategories based upon level <strong>of</strong> anemia. Since anemiais the primary pathologic effect from infection withHaemonchus contortus, or Barber’s Pole worm, the systemis an effective tool for identifying animals that requireanthelmintic treatment. The system also provides alow-cost way to slow the development <strong>of</strong> anthelminticresistance by reducing the number <strong>of</strong> animals treated withdeworming drugs.The trip was funded by Meat and Livestock Australia,a producer-owned company that works with industryand government to achieve a pr<strong>of</strong>itable and sustainablelivestock industry in Australia.
Glisson to lead U.S. Poultry Foundation researchDr. John Glisson (DVM ’80; MAM ’83; PhD ’85), retired head <strong>of</strong> the CVM’s department <strong>of</strong>Population Health, has been appointed director <strong>of</strong> research for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Harold E.Ford Foundation (USPOULTRY Foundation).As director <strong>of</strong> research, Glisson will administer the association’s comprehensive researchprogram, which encompasses all components <strong>of</strong> poultry and egg production and processing. Hewill work with the Foundation’s Research Advisory Committee in receiving and evaluating researchproposals and making recommendations to the board <strong>of</strong> directors for funding approval. Over thepast 20 years, $22 million has been invested in research funding.Glisson recently retired as head <strong>of</strong> the department <strong>of</strong> Population Health at the <strong>University</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> and has served as head <strong>of</strong> the department <strong>of</strong> avianmedicine and associate dean <strong>of</strong> public service and outreach. He is a past-president <strong>of</strong> the American GlissonAssociation <strong>of</strong> Avian Pathologists and has received numerous honors for his work. He received his BS in Biology fromValdosta State and his DVM, Master <strong>of</strong> Avian <strong>Medicine</strong>, and PhD in Medical Microbiology from the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Georgia</strong>.“We are pleased to have Dr. Glisson join us in this vital research role. He has a very distinguished career andhas been an active member <strong>of</strong> the research community, sharing and reaching out to industry. We look forward to hiscontribution to our research efforts,” said USPOULTRY Foundation chairman, Steve Willardsen.“The USPOULTRY Foundation research program is an important source <strong>of</strong> support for innovation for the U.S.poultry industry. I am very pleased to have the opportunity to be involved in the future achievements <strong>of</strong> the researchprogram,” said Dr. Glisson.Dr. Glisson also recently received the 2011 J.T. Mercer Lifetime Achievement Award from the <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong>Medical Association.Save the Date!!9th AnnualHawaii Dawg-OAugust 4, 2012Founders Garden on UGA’s CampusThis year’s hosts:UGA Athletic Director Greg McGarityand his wife, Sheryl McGaritySponsored by the Grace Memorial FoundationGet your own AnAtomic Dog!If you’ve visited our student lobby recently, you’ve probably noticedour “AnAtomic Dog” — a colorful, more-than-life-sized bulldogthat was presented to the <strong>College</strong> as a gift from the Class <strong>of</strong> 2009.Now you can have your very own, scaleddownversion.Omega Tau Sigma is selling miniatureversions <strong>of</strong> the AnAtomic Dog to raisemoney for the fraternity. A portion <strong>of</strong>the proceeds also benefits the <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> Hospital Building Fund.Like the original, the miniature wasdesigned by Athens artist John Ahee. EachAnAtomic Dog statuette costs $30, plus shipping and handling.Prior to mailing your in your order, please contact Dr. Doris Millerfor shipping and handling costs: miller@uga.edu or 706.542.5915.Checks should be made payable to Omega Tau Sigma. Pleaseinclude a note containing your name, shipping address, phonenumber, and email address. Mail your payment and contact/shippinginformation to:OTS Alumni Treasurer205 Burnett St.Athens, GA 30605
MORE TOOLSIN THE ARSENALCVM researchers combat tuberculosisBy Laura SmithOver a century ago, German physicianRobert Koch identified Mycobacteriumtuberculosis as the causative agent <strong>of</strong>tuberculosis. Today, while other historicallydevastating diseases like smallpox, plague andtyphoid fever no longer pose significant threats,researchers are still fighting to gain control <strong>of</strong> thispersistent pathogen.In the face <strong>of</strong> new challenges, such asantibiotic resistance and increasing co-infectionswith HIV, researchers at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong><strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> are working hardto develop new tools to diagnose, treat and preventthis tenacious disease.“We need a game changer,” says FrederickQuinn, pr<strong>of</strong>essor and head <strong>of</strong> the department<strong>of</strong> Infectious Diseases at the UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>. “We need a new vaccine, atherapy that doesn’t take nine months to work, anda better set <strong>of</strong> diagnostic tests.”A global burdenM. tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible fortuberculosis in humans, is one <strong>of</strong> the world’s mostresourceful pathogens. Traces <strong>of</strong> it have been foundin Egyptian mummies from about 3,000 B.C., andonly in the past 70 years have humans developedeffective anti-TB drugs, moderately usefuldiagnostic tests and a not-so-effective vaccine, saidQuinn.It is estimated that 1 in 3 people in the world isinfected with M. tuberculosis, although the majority<strong>of</strong> these infections are latent, incapable <strong>of</strong> spreadingand without symptoms. The problem occurs whenthe bacteria come out <strong>of</strong> hiding and grow when theinfected person becomes immunocompromised— typically by developing diabetes, or contractingHIV or another immune-suppressing condition.While most people in the Western world don’tconsider tuberculosis to be a major health concern,the disease runs rampant in the developing world,<strong>of</strong>ten going undetected in its latent stage. “In theUnited States it’s a problem, but in other parts <strong>of</strong> theworld it’s a crisis,” says Quinn. “We need to thinkabout parts <strong>of</strong> the world where this [TB] isn’t undercontrol.”Currently, there is only one vaccine approvedto prevent infection with M. tuberculosis. Thebacille Calmette-Guerin vaccine, or BCG, is usedwidely around the world to prevent infection inchildren, but it has serious limitations; it does notprotect into adolescence, and it can result in a falsepositive in the skin test <strong>of</strong>ten used to diagnose TBinfection.Available treatments for drug-susceptibletuberculosis, in the form <strong>of</strong> antibiotics, takeanywhere from six to nine months to get rid <strong>of</strong> theinfection -- if the patient takes the three daily drugscorrectly.Dr. Frederick Quinn, pr<strong>of</strong>essor and head <strong>of</strong> the department <strong>of</strong>Infectious Diseases.Photo by Laura Smith
The most widely used diagnostic test is the tuberculinskin test. It was developed nearly a century ago andrequires an under-the-skin injection <strong>of</strong> purified M.tuberculosis proteins. As mentioned before, it can give falseresults in individuals vaccinated with BCG, but also inindividuals exposed to other related bacteria or infectedwith HIV, and it cannot accurately identify latent infection.One <strong>of</strong> the major challenges in the global effort tocontrol TB is deciding which <strong>of</strong> these areas to focus on:diagnostics, therapeutics or vaccines. Researchers atUGA are working on a little bit <strong>of</strong> everything, from noveltherapeutics to more sensitive diagnostics.UGA researchers making progressIn 2010, Quinn was one <strong>of</strong> only six researchers in theUnited States to receive part <strong>of</strong> a $2.9 million grant fromthe FDA to develop a diagnostic test for latent tuberculosisinfection. “A vast majority <strong>of</strong> the infections worldwide arelatent, but there’s no way to diagnose them,” says Quinn.Two years later, Quinn is making progress ondiagnostic blood and urine tests based on bacterialresponses; he has applied for a one-year extension to beginlooking at the test’s effectiveness on clinical serum andurine samples.Don Mark Estes, a pr<strong>of</strong>essor in infectious diseasesand an immunology expert, came to UGA in 2010. Hesays that the research opportunities available through the<strong>University</strong>’s Animal Health Research Center were a majordraw for him as a TB researcher.The Animal Health Research Center (AHRC), abiocontainment facilityopened on the UGA campusin 2006, is key for UGA’scapacity to study tuberculosis.The AHRC is designatedABSL-3 by the Centersfor Disease Control andPrevention, and BSL3-Agby the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong>Agriculture, which meansit can hold high-securitypathogens and house largeanimals for research. It iscurrently one <strong>of</strong> only twouniversity-operated facilitiesin the nation with labs thatmeet these standards.“There is a lot <strong>of</strong>potential for collaborativeThe Animal Health ResearchCenter (AHRC)Photo by Sue Myers SmithDr. Don Mark Estes, pr<strong>of</strong>essor in the department <strong>of</strong> InfectiousDiseases, in his lab.work at UGA,” says Estes. His lab focuses on the geneticsand immunology <strong>of</strong> M. tuberculosis, and he will beconducting the first high-containment animal study in theAHRC starting in the fall <strong>of</strong> 2012.The AHRC’s ability to hold large animals means thatinstead <strong>of</strong> studying only smaller animal models, like miceand guinea pigs, for vaccine development, they can nowuse everything from nonhuman primates to cattle.“That’s one <strong>of</strong> the advantages <strong>of</strong> the AHRC,” saysEstes. “It has the capability for large animal studies thatother universities don’t have.”Animal modeling plays a pivotal role in testingvaccines; for any vaccines to go into human clinical trials,they must first be tested in animals.“The problem with TB vaccine development is thatwe really don’t understand enough about the immuneresponse to be able to create the ultimate vaccine,” saysPhoto by Laura Smith
TB Facts*Growing challengesVaccination may be one <strong>of</strong> the only channels left tocombat drug-resistant strains <strong>of</strong> tuberculosis, which are onthe rise. Overuse and incorrect use <strong>of</strong> anti-TB drugs haveled to drug resistance on every continent. “Once peopleget over the night sweats and fever symptoms,” says Estes,“they think they are cured and stop taking the drugs, andthat’s how you get drug-resistant strains.”In addition to spreading drug resistance, high rates<strong>of</strong> HIV in the developing world pose another uniquechallenge. “The HIV connection changed the landscape <strong>of</strong>TB control,” says Quinn. These dual epidemics cause majorproblems in resource-poor countries and disadvantagedpopulations — Russian prisoners and South Africanminers, for example.Infection with HIV raises the risk <strong>of</strong> reactivatinglatent tuberculosis disease, and having both infectionstogether exacerbates the effects <strong>of</strong> both. Estes will focushis studies on HIV and TB co-infection, and he is alsoworking on therapeutics for end-stage wasting in HIVpositivepatients.Quinn and Estes are optimistic that UGA is on thepath to becoming a frontrunner in the race to controltuberculosis, thanks to the Animal Health ResearchCenter and a dedicated, diverse group <strong>of</strong> researchers fromdifferent disciplines around UGA’s campus.“We’ve got everything here — the genetics expertise,the immunological expertise, the vaccine developmentexpertise, the animal modeling expertise,” says Quinn.“We’re the whole package.”Tuberculosis (TB) is the world’s secondleading cause <strong>of</strong> death due to a singleinfectious agent. (HIV/AIDS is first.)At least one-third <strong>of</strong> the estimated 34million people worldwide who are infectedwith HIV are also infected with TB bacteriabut do not yet have active TB. These peopleare 21 to 34 times more likely to developactive TB disease.Over 95% <strong>of</strong> TB deaths occur in developingcountries, and it is among the top threecauses <strong>of</strong> death for women aged 15 to 44.In 2009, about 10 million children wereorphaned due to the death <strong>of</strong> their parentsfrom TB.In 2010, about 500,000 children, ages 14 andunder, worldwide became ill with active TB.Between 58,000 and 71,000 children diedfrom the disease.People who are ill with active TB can infectup to 15 other people through close contactover the course <strong>of</strong> a year.Drug-resistant strains <strong>of</strong> TB have been foundin every country surveyed by the WorldHealth Organization.78 countries, including the United States,reported at least 1 case <strong>of</strong> TB in 2011.TB is treatable, curable and preventable.For MoreInformationAbout the CVM’s department <strong>of</strong>Infectious Diseases, visit:www.vet.uga.edu/idTB Research at UGA*Source: World Health OrganizationMultiple TB-related research projects areunderway on the UGA campus, including atleast five within the UGA CVM Department <strong>of</strong>Infectious Diseases.The research ranges from development<strong>of</strong> novel therapeutics, such as vaccines, todevelopment <strong>of</strong> new diagnostics.<strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 38
<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong>Alumni AssociationMembers <strong>of</strong> the Executive BoardDr. Flynn Nance (DVM ‘83)dawgvet83@comcast.netPresidentDr. Michael Topper (DVM ‘80)mjtopper@comcast.netImmediate Past PresidentDr. Chad Schmiedt (DVM ‘00)cws@uga.eduPresident-electDr. Doris Miller (DVM ‘76)miller@uga.eduSecretaryDr. Sheila Allensallen01@uga.eduDean; Ex-<strong>of</strong>ficioDr. Thomas Hutto (DVM ’85)huttothomas@gmail.comDr. Ginger Macaulay (DVM ’84)ginger@cherokeetrail.nerDr. Catherine McClelland (DVM ’83)catherinemcclelland@mindspring.comDr. Bill Seanor (DVM ’83)jwseanor@attglobal.netTGreetings from your Alumni Association!he UGA CVM Alumni Association needs your support as a member. Allveterinarians who have attended or taught at the <strong>College</strong> are members. TheAssociation’s objectives are to promote fellowship among alumni, faculty andstudents; unite alumni and faculty interested in improving and developing the<strong>College</strong>; build a permanent endowment fund for the benefit <strong>of</strong> the CVM; fundstudent scholarships; fund alumni receptions at state, regional and nationalmeetings; provide leadership for alumni reunions; select and grant annual alumniawards; and inform alumni about the <strong>College</strong> and its activities through printed andelectronic publications.Although the majority <strong>of</strong> the efforts to accomplish our objectives areconducted by the Executive Board with the expert assistance <strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong>’s staff,we cannot do it without your active involvement. Service is very important tothe continued development <strong>of</strong> the CVM and its future graduates. We need you toserve as a board member or as a member <strong>of</strong> a standing committee. We are activelypursuing ways to better reach out to our recent graduates. Our New GraduateAdvisory Committee, chaired by Dr. Catherine McClelland (DVM ‘83), is strivingto improve the interactions between the <strong>College</strong>, the Alumni Association, andthese newest members. The <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> Association is ourpartner in this effort. Additionally, our Awards and Recognitions Committee isworking to identify our best alumni to be honored with Distinguished Alumnusand Young Achiever awards.I serve because the <strong>College</strong> has provided me with the education to become aveterinarian, the pr<strong>of</strong>ession that I love. I want to give back to the <strong>College</strong> so that itwill be able to provide even more for future generations <strong>of</strong> veterinarians. ContactMarti Brick at brickm@uga.edu and let her know you are willing to join me in thisendeavor and serve the CVM.Thank you for allowing me to be your president for the past two years. Iwill remain on the board for two more years in the capacity <strong>of</strong> immediate pastpresident,and I look forward to assisting our new president, Dr. Flynn Nance(DVM ’83), as he assumes the helm <strong>of</strong> our Association.Warmest regards, and Go Dawgs!Dr. Stephen Arbitter (DVM ‘96)sma5168@windstream.netDr. Charlie Broussard (DVM ‘84)Charles.broussard@sp.intervet.comDr. Scott Bryant (DVM ‘94)scottvetboy@msn.comMichael J. Topper, DVM ’80Immediate Past PresidentDr. Alan Herring (DVM ‘85)doc@dairy.netDr. Jan Sosnowski Nichol (DVM ‘80)maplerun@aol.comF o l l o w t h e C V M a n d A l u m n i A s s o c i a t i o n ’ s c u r r e n t a c t i v i t i e s !www.vet.uga.eduwww.facebook.com/UGACVMtwitter.com/ugavetmedUGA VCM New Graduate Forum:www.facebook.com/pages/UGA-CVM-New-Graduate-Forum/137124556317443
A new president: Dr. Flynn NanceDr. Flynn Nance (BS ’77; MS ’79; DVM ’83) is the new president <strong>of</strong> the UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> Alumni Association. Dr. Nance, a “triple dawg,” has served as a member and president <strong>of</strong>the <strong>Georgia</strong> State Board <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>; as president <strong>of</strong> the Lambda Chapter <strong>of</strong> Alpha PsiPr<strong>of</strong>essional <strong>Veterinary</strong> Fraternity; and as president <strong>of</strong> the fraternity’s alumni society. He co-owns HoneyCreek <strong>Veterinary</strong> Hospital in Conyers, Ga., with his wife, Dr. Susan Aldridge Nance (DVM ’84).have always enjoyed being involved in UGA Vet Med Alumni functions, and having theI opportunity to talk to friends, colleagues, students, faculty and staff members <strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong> issomething I always look forward to. I agreed to serve as President <strong>of</strong> the Alumni Association becauseI feel the <strong>College</strong> is only as strong as its weakest link. Having a superb faculty and staff and wellqualifiedstudents aren’t enough to keep us competitive. We also need an active and supportive alumni base, as well as theproper facilities and financing to get the job done. This pr<strong>of</strong>ession has been so good to me and my family, and I want togive back. I look forward to serving during this exciting time <strong>of</strong> growth for the <strong>College</strong>, and it is with great anticipationthat I start my tenure as president <strong>of</strong> the Alumni Board <strong>of</strong> UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>. — FlynnWhy did you decide to become aveterinarian?I decided my senior year <strong>of</strong> high school, upon the advice<strong>of</strong> my guidance counselor, to pursue a career in veterinarymedicine and have never regretted the decision. Helpinganimals and enriching their owners’ well-being is verysatisfying.What makes your practice successful?My wife and I have been fortunate to have many greatclients and employees. We put emphasis on clienteducation, so that hopefully they understand thedynamics <strong>of</strong> their pets’ problems, and staff education sothat we can adequately explain those dynamics.Why is it important for the <strong>College</strong>’sgraduates to get involved in the AlumniAssociation?Q&Athe Foundation’s annual fundraiser, Grace’s BirthdayParty, which helps support the <strong>College</strong>’s G.R.A.C.E. Fund(that helps clients with demonstrated financial need helpfund medical procedures for their dog). I have beenthe president <strong>of</strong> the Grace Foundation since 2004. We<strong>of</strong>fer some yearly scholarships, sponsor seeing-eye dogs(Grace’s owner was blind), give Valentine gifts for pets <strong>of</strong>Meals-on-Wheels clients, and several other things. Ourprimary fundraiser now is Hawaii Dawg-O, held everyAugust. Past guest hosts have included Larry Munson,Loran Smith, Kevin Butler and several other formerfootball players.I take great pride in the <strong>University</strong> and I feel it isimportant to be involved in organizations both physicallyand financially to ensure that the veterinary field andespecially the <strong>College</strong> are the best they can be, ensuringour graduates are equal to or better than any other in thecountry. Why shouldn’t UGA have the best veterinarycollege in the country? Get involved, donate, and beproud <strong>of</strong> veterinary medicine and your alma mater.What is your involvement with the GRACEMemorial Foundation?I got involved with the Grace Memorial Foundation, a501(c)3 charitable organization, in 2003 by doing an “Askthe Vet” article in Southern Living when they wrote aboutWhat advice do you have for soon-to-bealumni <strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong>?Practice veterinary medicine with pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism andintegrity and uphold the traditions that make us one<strong>of</strong> the most respected pr<strong>of</strong>essions. Give something <strong>of</strong>yourself back to the field and the <strong>College</strong> so that they willcontinue to be the best they can be.Photo by Laura Smith
ClassNotesDr. Mary Dickens Hicks (DVM ’88) was honored with anAbraham Baldwin Agricultural <strong>College</strong> (ABAC) AlumniAssociation award on March 3, 2012, at the <strong>Georgia</strong>Museum <strong>of</strong> Agriculture and Historic Village.Dr. Earl Gaughan (DVM ’81) has joined the Virginia-Maryland Regional <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>at Virginia Tech as a clinical pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> large animalsurgery.Dr. Matthew Booth (DVM ’97) has been certifiedas a Diplomate by the American Board <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong>Practitioners specializing in Canine and Feline Practice.Dr. Booth practices at Alpenglow <strong>Veterinary</strong> Specialty +Emergency Center in Boulder, Colo.Dr. Timothy Montgomery (DVM ’83) was inducted intothe <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong>’s AGHON Honor Society onNov. 6, 2011, for a lifetime <strong>of</strong> outstanding leadership.Dr. Joseph Gaydos (PhD ’01) was elected to chair theScience Panel <strong>of</strong> thePuget Sound Partnership,Washington state’scomprehensive effort torestore Puget Sound.Dr. Walter Gregg (DVM’79) was named theGaydos2011 SCAV Veterinarian<strong>of</strong> the Year. Dr. Gregg, one <strong>of</strong> three ABVP canine andfeline diplomates in South Carolina, owns Gregg AnimalHospital in Columbia, S.C.Dr. Erin Casey (DVM ’10) is a member <strong>of</strong> the inauguralclass <strong>of</strong> the AVMA Future Leaders Program, whichprovides a one-year opportunity to help bolster leadershipand problem-solving skills related to organized veterinarymedicine.Dr. Dale Bjorling (MS ’82) was named associate deanfor research and graduate training at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong>Wisconsin School <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>.Drs. Rebecca Babcock (DVM ’98) and Karen Donovan(DVM ’04) opened Red Barn <strong>Veterinary</strong> Hospital, a fullycomputerized veterinary hospital that focuses on qualitymedicine and surgery in Dahlonega, Ga.Bulldog 100Drs. Angela Dodd (DVM ’00),Jenifer Gustafson (DVM ’91),Debbie A. Pinson (DVM ’83) andEdward Reid Pinson (DVM ’93)were selected for the Bulldog100 Class <strong>of</strong> 2012, recognizingthe fastest growing alumnibusinesses.Drs. Dodd and Gustafson own Gustafson (right)Hope Animal Medical Center inAthens, Ga., and Debbie and Edward Pinson own NorthOconee Animal Hospital in Bogart, Ga.Dr. Amy Belew (DVM ’99) is Cobb County AnimalControl’s first full-time veterinarian. The countycommissioners approved the new position in February2011. The county is part <strong>of</strong> the greater Atlanta region.Dr. Jason Eisele (DVM ’02) purchased Specialists in<strong>Veterinary</strong> Surgery (SVS) in Estero, Fla. SVS is a smallanimal referral practice specializing in orthopedic,oncologic, neurologic and s<strong>of</strong>t tissue surgical care.Dr. Emily Hoppmann (DVM ’05) bought Elgin<strong>Veterinary</strong> Clinic in Elgin, S.C. She practices small animaland exotic animal medicine and surgery.Dr. Gary Baxter (MS ’88) is a Pr<strong>of</strong>essor Emeritus atColorado State <strong>University</strong>, from which he retired in2011. He is now director <strong>of</strong> the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong>Teaching Hospital and a pr<strong>of</strong>essorin the department <strong>of</strong> largeanimal medicine. His wife, Dr.Margaret Baxter (DVM ’86), soldher practice, The Vets AnimalHospital, in Windsor, Colo.Dr. Robert M. Cobb, Jr. (DVMBaxter’81) was named <strong>Georgia</strong>’s stateveterinarian by Commissioner <strong>of</strong> Agriculture GaryW. Black. The state veterinarian oversees the AnimalProtection and Equine Health <strong>of</strong>fices.41The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>
Dr. Heather Wilson Barron (DVM ’95) was named clinicdirector at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation <strong>of</strong> Wildlife inSanibel, Fla.Dr. Theodore G. Westmoreland(DVM ’58) was named a 2012Distinguished Service Awardrecipient by the Clemson AlumniAssociation. Dr. Westmorelandowns Boulevard Animal HospitalP.A. in Shelby, N.C.Dr. Walter C. Cottingham(DVM ’61) received the 2011Distinguished Veterinarian <strong>of</strong>Westmorelandthe year Award from the SouthCarolina Association <strong>of</strong> Veterinarians.Dr. Donald G. Simmons (DVM ’67; MS ’69; PhD’71) was recognized with the dedication <strong>of</strong> the 92ndConference <strong>of</strong> Research Workers in Animal Diseases inhis honor. Dr. Simmons is considered one <strong>of</strong> the foundingleaders <strong>of</strong> the North Carolina State <strong>University</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>.Dr. Kelli Jones (MAM ’04) won the World <strong>Veterinary</strong>Poultry Association Young Veterinarian <strong>of</strong> the Yearaward. Dr. Jones is a clinical assistant pr<strong>of</strong>essor in thedepartment <strong>of</strong> pathobiology and population medicineat the Mississippi State <strong>University</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong>.Dr. Larry Corry (DVM ’66) was appointed by GovernorNathan Deal to serve on the <strong>Georgia</strong> Board <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong>. Dr. Corry is the owner and practicingveterinarian <strong>of</strong> two small animal hospitals in Buford, Ga.ObituariesJames Joseph Miller, DVM ’73, <strong>of</strong> Asheville, N.C., July 24,2010 ◆ James Hamilton Van Etten, DVM ’78, Riverview,Fla., March 19, 2011 ◆ Francis Miller Jackson, DVM’52, Morganton, N.C., March 24, 2011 ◆ Robert LamarMeeks, DVM ’51, Eatonton, Ga., Apr. 28, 2011 ◆ WilliamRobert Gaines, DVM ’64, Rapid City, S.D., May 2, 2011 ◆Walter Hicks Rogers Jr., DVM ’52, Newnan, Ga., May 7,2011 ◆ John C. LeMay, DVM ’59, Durham, N.C., June 6,2011 ◆ Thomas Earl Staton, DVM ’56, Goldsboro, N.C.,July 7, 2011 ◆ Leonard Junior Steele, DVM ’51, Toccoa,Ga., Aug. 3, 2011 ◆ Dorsey A. Sanders Jr., DVM ’54,Hawthorne, Fla., Aug. 9, 2011 ◆ Harold H. Holbrook,DVM ’53, Olney, Md., Sept. 21, 2011 ◆ Harold KimballChandler, DVM ’56, Jacksonville, Fla., Sept. 23, 2011 ◆Raymond T. Copeland, DVM ’53, Greensboro, N.C., Oct.15, 2011 ◆ Jack Riley Whittaker, DVM ’60, Spartanburg,S.C., Nov. 1, 2011 ◆ Frederick E. Ducey Jr., DVM ’50,Ridgeland, S.C., Nov. 17, 2011 ◆ John Morgan SpringsJr., DVM ’58, Santee, S.C., Nov. 18, 2011 ◆ Edwin LeeBroom, DVM ’76, Rossville, Ga., Dec. 7, 2011 ◆ JohnForrest Peacock, DVM ’66, Warwick, Md., Dec. 30, 2011◆ William Lee Carter Jr., DVM ’51, Winter Haven,Fla., Jan. 11, 2012 ◆ Preston Miller Givens, DVM’54, Richmond, Va., Jan. 16, 2012 ◆ Charles ThomasShortall, DVM ’65, Lutherville, Md., Jan. 20, 2012 ◆Keith William Chapin, DVM ’74, West Palm Beach, Fla.,March 2, 2012.Dr. Patrick Andrew Bremer (DVM ’83) <strong>of</strong> Bluffton,S.C., passed away Sunday, March 4, 2012.Dr. Bremer was an active alum, served on the CVMAlumni Board beginning in March 2011, and wasnamed Veterinarian <strong>of</strong> the Year in his hometown <strong>of</strong>Savannah, Ga., in 1999.W e w a n t t o k n o w w h a t y o u ’ r e u p t o !Your classmates want to know what’s happening in yourlife. Drop us a line. And please include your currentcontact information, including your phone number andemail, to help us keep our alumni database up to date.Email us:vetalums@uga.edu orbrickm@uga.eduORFax:706.583.0242
Distinguished Alumni honoredOn March 24, 2012, the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> recognized two individuals as Distinguished Alumni and one asa Young Achiever in a ceremony at the 49th Annual <strong>Veterinary</strong> Conference & Alumni Weekend. The <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong><strong>Medicine</strong> Alumni Association recognizes Distinguished Alumni each spring. Nominees must have graduated fromthe <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> and made contributions in one or more <strong>of</strong> the following areas:• Animal and human health-related public service• Pr<strong>of</strong>essional service• Involvement in veterinary educational research and/or service• Contributions to the local community, state or nation• Involvement in veterinary associations at the local, state or national level• Contributions to the <strong>College</strong>’s Alumni Association• Nominees for the Young Achiever Award must meet the above criteria, and have graduated 9, 10 or 11years prior to the year the award is presentedDr. Michael Zager (DVM ’79) is a mixed-animal practitioner at Ocoee Animal Hospital,and is known for his expertise in camelids, particularly llamas and alpacas. Zager is asought-after speaker in this area and is recognized throughout the Southeastern UnitedStates as a veterinary resource for these animals. Zager also provides mentoring to andlearning opportunities for UGA’s veterinary students.Dr. John R. Glisson (DVM ’80; MAM ’83; PhD ’85) is the retired head <strong>of</strong>the department <strong>of</strong> Population Health, and the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> PoultryDiagnostic and Research Center. Glisson has recently launched a second careeras director <strong>of</strong> research for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Harold E. Ford Foundation.During his time at UGA, Glisson co-developed two vaccines and a DNAencodingprocess, held editorial roles for five pr<strong>of</strong>essional publications, and wasawarded more than 80 research grants.Dr. Kimberly Lewis Carney (DVM ’01) is a mixed-animal practitioner at HarrogateHospital for Animals in rural East Tennessee and an adjunct pr<strong>of</strong>essor at Lincoln Memorial<strong>University</strong>. Carney was responsible for making endoscopy, ultrasonography, laser surgery,and alternative therapies available to Harrogate’s clients. Carney recently accepted an <strong>of</strong>ferto serve the Christian <strong>Veterinary</strong> Mission for three years in Bolivia, where she will teach atthe veterinary college at Santa Cruz and work with indigenous subsistence farmers.To nominate an alumnus for the 2013 awards, email vetalums@uga.edu for a nomination form.43The <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>Photos by Wingate Downs Photography
Mueller and Waggoner win 2012 Fraternity AwardsMuellerDr. Eric Mueller (PhD ’96) is the recipient <strong>of</strong> the 2012 A.M. Mills Award from the LambdaChapter <strong>of</strong> Alpha Psi; Dr. James C. Waggoner (DVM ’69) is the 2012 recipient <strong>of</strong> the Fred C.Davison Award for Distinguished Service, from the Eta Chapter <strong>of</strong> Omega Tau Sigma.Dr. Mueller obtained his DVM from Michigan State <strong>University</strong> in 1989 and his PhD inphysiology from the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong>. Now a Diplomate <strong>of</strong> the American <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong>Surgeons, Dr. Mueller is the CVM’s director <strong>of</strong> Equine Programs, and has served on manydepartmental, college and university committees over the years. He has also been recognized for hisexcellence in scholarship, teaching and service with numerous awards over his 20-year career.Dr. Waggoner built Stockbridge <strong>Veterinary</strong> Hospital in 1972, Henry County <strong>Veterinary</strong>Hospital in 1998, and East Lake <strong>Veterinary</strong> Hospital in 1995. He has been a member <strong>of</strong> StockbridgeLion’s Club for 15 years, Lion <strong>of</strong> the Year five times, and has been on the Board <strong>of</strong> Directors <strong>of</strong> FirstState Bank — Stockbridge for 17 years. Dr. Waggoner is a long-time supporter <strong>of</strong> the CVM, the<strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Association, and Omega Tau Sigma.WaggonerPet MemorialsMeaningful to clients, veterinarians and the <strong>College</strong>“Pet memorials have been great for our business. They help us remember clients and their pets, as well as support the UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>’s goal to build a new teaching hospital. The feedback we get is priceless.”— Dr. Roy Brogdon, DVM ’73Cleveland <strong>Veterinary</strong> Hospital Cleveland, <strong>Georgia</strong>For more information, please contact us:Phone: 706.542.1807E-mail: THE give2vet@uga.eduUNIVERSITY OF GEORGIAWeb: www.vet.uga.edu/GO/memorial<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>Dr. Roy Brogdon, co-‐owner <strong>of</strong> Cleveland <strong>Veterinary</strong> Hospital, donates regularly through our pet memorial program.THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong><strong>Aesculapian</strong> Spring/Summer 2012 44
<strong>Georgia</strong> funds VMLC, but fundraising will continueIt was 14 years ago that the <strong>College</strong> administration first conceived the idea for a new TeachingOur Goal: Hospital to replace our aging facility. We are thrilled to report that this fall we will finally break ground on$25 Million our <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Learning Center!In early May, <strong>Georgia</strong> Gov. Nathan Deal signed the state’s budget for FY13, which includes $52.3million in bond funding for construction <strong>of</strong> our new hospital. Part <strong>of</strong> our ability to get funding fromthe state relied on our ability to raise a minimum <strong>of</strong> $15 million in private donations toward the project.Thanks to the on-going support from so many <strong>of</strong> you, we exceeded our goal by the time the legislatureRACTER PERSPECTIVE voted | on NORTH the budget. FACADE facing <strong>College</strong> Station RoadEveryone who supported this project in any way helped us achieve this milestone: our alumni; friendsrinary <strong>Medicine</strong> Learning Center1.2012<strong>of</strong> the <strong>College</strong>; our faculty and staff; the upper-administration at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong>; the Board<strong>of</strong> Regents; former Gov. Sonny Perdue (DVM ’71); Gov. Nathan Deal, and the members <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Georgia</strong>General Assembly.Despite our celebration, our work is not done. The funding provided by the state and the privatedonations received thus far will allow us to build most <strong>of</strong> the needed elements <strong>of</strong> the Learning Center. Aswith many major capital projects, some areas had to be deferred due to budgetary limitations. There are anumber <strong>of</strong> deferred elements that we hope to include in the construction project if sufficient funds can beraised over the next few months.Our total fundraising goal is now $25 million. As <strong>of</strong> press time, we had raised $21 million in gifts andpledges. If you wish to make a multi-year pledge or consider a naming opportunity, please contact ourDevelopment <strong>of</strong>fice at 706.542.1807. For more information about the need for the VMLC, the plans for thefacility, our capital campaign, and the honor roll <strong>of</strong> donors, or to give a gift through our secured website,visit: www.vet.uga.edu/vmlcThanks so much to all <strong>of</strong> you for your continued support <strong>of</strong> this project, and for helping us createa new state-<strong>of</strong>-the-art facility that will serve our clients and patients, as well as our pr<strong>of</strong>ession, for manydecades to come!A Damn Good Read!Read a history <strong>of</strong> Uga, the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> mascots.A sports classic, this version is updated to include new material on UgaVI, Uga VII, Uga VIII, and Russ.The book is available from your bookseller <strong>of</strong> choice. UGA alums areeligible for a 30% discount if they order from the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> Pressat 800.266.5842 or online at www.ugapress.orgA portion <strong>of</strong> the proceeds from sales <strong>of</strong> this book benefits the<strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>.
Why I give:Edith Martin RogersMy name is EdithMartin Rogers, and Iam currently an associateat Peachtree Hills AnimalHospital, a small animalpractice in Atlanta. Ireceived my bachelor’sdegree in biology fromthe <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Georgia</strong>in 1998, and a DVMfrom the UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong> in2003.Followinggraduation, I completeda one-year rotatinginternship in small animalmedicine and surgeryat the Animal MedicalCenter in New YorkCity and practiced smallanimal medicine in bothLos Angeles and LosAltos, Calif., for a total <strong>of</strong>five years before moving back with my family to <strong>Georgia</strong>in 2009. I’m thrilled to be back in <strong>Georgia</strong> close to family,friends and the UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>.I am passionate about being a veterinarian, and I amso thankful to have a career that I love. I also recognizethat the opportunity to have such a career came fromthe wonderful education I received and the experiences Ihad with my classmates, teachers, interns and residents atUGA. Living and working out <strong>of</strong> the state only adds to thepride I feel for my time in Athens. It is that pride and thePhoto courtesy <strong>of</strong> Edith Martin Rogersresponsibility that I feel asan alumna that compelsme personally to give aportion <strong>of</strong> my incomeback to the institution thatmade my career possible.My children are too youngto really understandcharitable giving, but itis important to me thatwhen the time comes theyunderstand the importance<strong>of</strong> supporting their almamaters and the institutionsthat supported them.I will also share withthem my belief that, earlyin a career, the size <strong>of</strong> adonation to some degreeis less significant thanthe participation itself. Ibelieve it is important tocondition oneself to giveat any level. With thatthought, I have made a concerted effort to give each yearsince my graduation, and I have increased my gifting whenpossible. For years, I contributed to the annual operations,but more recently, I have contributed to the capitalcampaign for the new <strong>Veterinary</strong> Medical Learning Center.I believe that the new Hospital is greatly needed and willprovide an opportunity for UGA to shine in the veterinaryworld even more than it already does. As an alumna, Iwant to be a part <strong>of</strong> making that happen, and I will beexcited and proud to visit the new facilities.
<strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>Athens, GA 30602-7371®Nonpr<strong>of</strong>it Org.U.S. PostagePAIDAthens, GAPermit #11Return Service RequestedDates to remember:August 4August 12September 26September 29December 1-5March 22-23, 20139th Annual Hawaii Dawg-OWhite Coat CeremonyVet School for a DayDean’s TailgateAAEPThe 50th Annual <strong>Veterinary</strong> Conference & Alumni WeekendContinuing Education Courses: (CE dates and topics subject to change)October 4-5October 13-14October 20-21November 10-11December 1-2December 2December 8-9December 8-98th Equine EncoreInternal <strong>Medicine</strong>Small Animal SurgeryRabbit/Rodent EndoscopyAvian and Reptile Diagnostic EndoscopyNeurologyOutpatient <strong>Medicine</strong>Advanced Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic SurgeryThis publication is paid for by private donations, and is available online at www.vet.uga.edu. For future mailings, if you would prefer to receiveour <strong>Aesculapian</strong> or Annual Report electronically, please email us at vetnews@uga.edu and tell us what email address you would like usto notify when the publication goes online. Thank you for your support <strong>of</strong> the UGA <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Veterinary</strong> <strong>Medicine</strong>!