Making Research a Priority - Western University of Health Sciences

OutlookCollege of Veterinary MedicineWestern University of Health SciencesWinter/Spring 2013/Volume 14, Issue 1MakingResearcha PriorityCVM labs acrossWesternU campus

W o r d f r o m t h e D e a nEarlier this year, The New York Times ran a story exploring the high cost of aveterinary education vs. any need for new veterinarians. It seems a studyconducted under the purview of the National Academy of Sciences andreleased in 2012 found no such need and concluded that “the cost ofveterinary education is at a crisis point.”Shortly after that story appeared, Deborah Kochevar, DVM, PhD, DACVCP,dean of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University andpresident of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, issueda response in the form of an open letter to the veterinary medicalcommunity. I’d like to share it here, as her comments put into perspectivewhat we’ve known all along: The need truly is there and the cost ismanageable.Here, in part, is her response:David Segal’s Feb. 24 article on veterinary medicine brought important public attention to economic issuesaffecting a vital health profession. Unfortunately, his presentation of worst-case scenarios paints a bleakpicture that begs for context.Building a narrative around a recent graduate with accumulated student debt that is twice the nationalaverage ($312,000) is not representative of most students ($151,672). Most students pay in-resident tuition,which is more than 50 percent lower than the non-resident cost of tuition. Also, the annual cost ofattendance figure cited by the reporter includes almost $20,000 annually for expenses such as room andboard, books and supplies, and personal expenses, including transportation, which would be incurred nomatter what the degree.What sets graduates of veterinary medicine apart from many of those with other degrees is that they standan excellent chance of gaining employment in their chosen profession.The employment data reported by The New York Times comes from the annual American Veterinary MedicalAssociation (AVMA) new graduate survey, which is sampled anywhere from two to six weeks beforegraduation. However, data from our latest research, conducted several months following graduation, showthat 98.4 percent of 2011 U.S. graduates and 97.7 percent of 2012 graduates report being employed inveterinary medicine at least six months after graduation. That’s an impressive employment rate by anystandard, and one that contrasts sharply with the dire picture presented in the article – and the nation’s 7.9percent unemployment rate.The starting salary data as presented in the article ($46,971) is skewed because it includes lower salariesassociated with the approximately 30 percent of graduates who seek post-DVM internships and residencyprograms, which are paid training opportunities similar to what physicians undertake. The same AVMA dataset describes the median entry-level salary for first-year practitioners as $65,404; not enough, agreed, butbetter. It is also important to note that these are starting salaries that increase predictably and positively asnew graduates gain experience.As I write this, veterinarians are in the field working to identify and prevent infectious diseases that couldspark global pandemics. They are on farms and in processing facilities, making sure there is food on ourplates and that it is safe to eat. And they are in laboratories helping find cures for cancer, heart disease,diabetes, and other shared maladies. Veterinarians are rightfully recognized as One Health professionals whocontribute across the health spectrum to animal, human and environmental well-being.The profession of veterinary medicine is an essential national resource. We welcome a dialogue about ourprofession and invite greater public and private support. As a first step, we need to make sure that ourunderstanding of the issues is structured upon objective and balanced information, so that we do not deteror discourage talented students with the wherewithal to take on the challenges and rewards of a veterinarycareer. Indeed, we should do all that we can to educate, motivate and support such students, for the sake ofourselves and our nation.theOutlookWinter/Spring 2013/Volume 14, Issue 1College of Veterinary MedicineWestern University of Health SciencesEditor:Paul Gordon-Ross, DVM, MS909.706.3529pgordon@westernu.eduAssociate Editor:Carla Sanderscarlasanders3@aol.comAssistant Editor:Jason Carter909.706.3874jcarter@westernu.eduPhotographer:Jeff Malet909.469.3790jmalet@westernu.eduPhotographer:Jess Lopatynski909.469.5298jlopatynski@westernu.eduGraphic Designer:Paul Gettler909.469.5256pgettler@westernu.edu------309 E. Second St.Pomona, Calif. 91766-1854www.westernu.eduCVMOutlook@westernu.edu.O n T h e C o v e rLaboratory manager Hannah Mirrashed conductsresearch in the newly remodeled 200-square-foot labdedicated to the isolation and culture of stem cells.Photo by Jess LopatynskiTo read the entire response on the AAVMC website, log on to http://www.aavmc.org/Events/?id=52.Phillip Nelson, DVM, PhD2If you would like to be removed from theOutlook mailing list contact Liz McGowen at909.469.5392 or email mmcgowan@westernu.edu

ALUMNIConnectionNews and notes for and about our gradsAlumni Reception atPacVet ConferenceAlumni, staff and faculty are invited to theWestern University of Health Sciences’ receptionon June 20, 2013, as part of the CaliforniaVeterinary Medical Association’s PacificVeterinary Conference in Long Beach. Theconference is scheduled June 20-23 at the LongBeach Convention Center.The four-day conference offers attendees the opportunity to earn continuing education credits from over 230CE hours and 28.5 hours of technician-specific CE. Those attending may also network with veterinaryprofessionals from throughout the United States, Canada, and other countries.For more information about the event and to register, log onto pacvet.net.Jobs for AlumniInterested in finding a new job or just seeing what’s out there? Check out the job postings for alumni at the Alumni CareerResources Center on the WesternU website at www.westernu.edu.Share Your NewsHave you recently married, started a new job, had a baby, or received a promotion? Update WesternU onyour achievements and milestones so they can be shared with your fellow classmates. Send any news toalumni@westernu.edu.Suggestion BoxThe Office of Alumni Relations would like to hear your views about alumniservices at WesternU. If you have any thoughts about alumni events,participation, or would like to propose ideas, contact the office at (909) 469-5274 oralumni@westernu.edu.Alumni Relations OfficeThe Office of Alumni Relations at Western University of Health Sciences is home to the WesternU Alumni Association.The association exists to keep all current and future WesternU graduates connected to one another and the University,as well as to their respective disciplines.Post a JobDo you have a position that alumni from the College of Veterinary Medicine might be able to fill? To submit a jobposting, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (909) 469-5274 or email the information to alumni@westernu.edu.The information will be posted in the Career Resources section of the WesternU Alumni web site.3

I v e r s o n B e l lSyMPOSIUMCVM StudentsTake Top Honorsin Essay ContestFrom left, Dean Phillip Nelson, Lisa Rodriguez, DVM ’16,Pouneh Behin, DVM ’15, and CVM Assistant Professor SuzieKovacs attend the Iverson Bell Symposium in Alexandria, Va.TWO STUDENTS FROM WESTERNU’S COLLEGE OFVETERINARY MEDICINE won this year’s IversonBell Essay Contest at the national meeting ofthe Association of American VeterinaryMedical Colleges in Alexandria, Va. Honoredfor their work were Pouneh Behin, DVM2015, and Lisa Rodriguez, DVM ’16. Themeeting was held March 8-10, 2013.The essay contest is part of the Iverson BellSymposium, which occurs every other year atthe AAVMC national conference. This is theoldest symposium in veterinary medicine andit is dedicated to Dr. Iverson Bell, an African-American veterinarian who worked towardthe goal of promoting diversity within theveterinary profession. One winning essay isselected from each of the first- and secondyearclasses and the winners receive a freeregistration and trip to the symposium.“The symposium allowed me to connect withstudents, staff, and faculty members fromother schools/colleges of veterinary medicinewho, just like myself, are passionate aboutissues of diversity,” said Pouneh. “This was themost noteworthy experience ... I now knowexactly who I can speak to at specific schoolsabout working together towards increasingthe number of underrepresented students. Ilook forward to being part of a movementthat brings change for the betterment of ourprofession.”The theme of this year’s conference wasDiversity and Inclusion: Excellence inInstitutional Planning, Teaching, andAssessment in Veterinary Medical Education.Among the lineup of sessions were topicsdevoted to campus climate and culture,diversity in food supply veterinary medicine,leadership, and clinical assessment. Thattheme was carried through in the essays byboth the winners. Excerpts from each arebelow:From Pouneh Behin:“Through my involvement as a student activist, both in the past and today, I have realized that tolerance is not the aim of my vision due toits lack of regard for acceptance of people of different backgrounds. It is rather the full inclusion of students of color and underrepresentedstudents into the field of veterinary medicine that I hold as a vision. The little amount of racial/ethnic diversity within the studentpopulation at WesternU led me to establish Students of Color & Allies Outreach, Retention & Education (SCORE). It has grown to includepeople of all backgrounds dedicated to bringing to light issues facing students of color and outreaching to K-12 schools with largeunderrepresented student populations.I truly believe that in our perseverance to achieve equal access for all to veterinary medical education, we should remember that diversityshould not simply be a friendly and colorful word we use when discussing its absence in our colleges; it should rather be an established goalfor the future of our profession.”From Lisa Rodriguez:“I’ve never thought of diversity in the strictest sense of the word, instead I always regarded it as this: can you relate to or understandanother’s way of life, culturally, socially, or economically? I don’t define my diversity as a first-generation Hispanic college student from asingle parent, lower-income household in a largely Hispanic-predominated town in south Texas, but rather, I define it as my experiencesdealing with people from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, various socioeconomic status, and varied life experience. All of thatcame from talking to people.Diversity is important not only to veterinary medicine, but to all professions. Diversity means widening your clientele, providing better careto more creatures, and understanding more people.”4

PetSmart Charities Grants $300,000 to College of Veterinary MedicineTo be used for spay/neuter mobile unitThe College of Veterinary Medicine received a $300,000 grant fromPetSmart Charities to acquire, equip and operate a high-volume mobilespay/neuter vehicle.“This is a significant contribution to our academic program thatdoubles the college’s mobile capacity to address community needs inthe Inland Empire and the LA basin,” said College of VeterinaryMedicine Dean Phillip Nelson, DVM, PhD. “The support of the VACS IIby PetSmart Charities, and the contribution of personnel and medicalsupplies by WesternU College of Veterinary Medicine, will result in apartnership designed to provide a measurable impact on thepopulation of unowned/unwanted animals in local communities,while providing valuablelearning experiences forour students.”The vehicle, VACS II(Veterinary AmbulatoryCommunity Service), willbe a key component ofthe college’s ShelterMedicine fourth-year rotation. VACS II, which is expected to beginoperation in August 2013, will take two to three fourth-year CVMstudents to area shelters to perform about 30 spays and neuters perday. It will go out Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.“We’re going to be doing quality high-volume spay and neuter withthose students,” said CVM Assistant Professor Frank Bossong, DVM. “Bythe time students get to their fourth year, they’re pretty seasoned. Theyare well prepared to be performing spays and neuters on dogs andcats at this point in our curriculum. We’ll really be making a biggerimpact on the animal population at the shelters here in SouthernCalifornia.”University Specialty Vehicles Inc. in Perris, Calif., constructed CVM’sfirst mobile unit, VACS I, said Eva Jaeger, RVT, who is working closelywith the company again 10 years later. “Getting a second opportunityto perfect a job well done the first time is an exciting prospect for allinvolved,” she said.VACS I will continue to serve the community on Tuesdays andThursdays. Generally, seven first-year students work in VACS I in themorning, and seven second-year students come on board in theafternoon to learn about anesthesia and surgery.“The VACS II will further ensure that our graduates will be ready to dosurgery on day one with their new employer,” Dr. Bossong said. “Aswith the VACS I, this newmobile unit demonstratesWesternU’s continuedcommitment to producinghealth professionals whoembrace the idea ofcommunity service.” Thenew unit will help studentsgreatly improve their general surgery skills and allow extensiveexperience in tissue handling.Established in 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc. is an independent,nonprofit organization that creates and supports programs that savethe lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of companion animalwelfare issues and promote healthy relationships between people andpets. The largest funder of animal-welfare efforts in North America,PetSmart Charities has provided more than $165 million in grants andprograms benefiting animal-welfare organizations and has helped savethe lives of more than 5 million pets through its in-store adoptionprogram.Banfield, Merial Make Gifts to the CVMBanfield, the Pet Hospital, has directed to the College ofVeterinary Medicine a gift of $215,000. This annual gift is part ofthe overall 10-year pledge by Banfield that built the BanfieldVeterinary Clinical Center building on campus and will total morethan $6.5 million when completed, according to UniversityAdvancement at WesternU.Merial Limited has made a gift-in-kind donation of products for College ofVeterinary Medicine students at WesternU valued at more than $45,000. Studentsare able to use and evaluate the various types of products in real-world situationsthat they will be recommending and prescribing after earning their DVM.5

G r a d s i n t h e F i e l dAmazon CARESCVM Alumna Blogs About Goodwill Trip to PeruCollege of Veterinary Medicine alumni Jackie Imai, DVM ’07,trekked to Peru last summer as part of a veterinary goodwill tripthrough Amazon CARES (Community Animal Rescue, Educationand Safety). The organization, according to its website, “seeks betterhealth and living conditions for ALL living beings in the PeruvianAmazon region. This includes appropriate care, respect, andprotection from cruelty and neglect.”Shortly after her trip, Dr. Imai blogged about it, seeking to bringattention to the group’s efforts in the hope that other students mightconsider going on a similar trip, either as petnurses or, when they graduate, as doctors. “Theyare always short on volunteers,” she said. “It doeshave a trip fee and doesn’t cover any expenses,however, that is because all the money goes to theanimals. It was a wonderful life-alteringexperience and one I think would be great forWesternU grads!” For more information aboutAmazon CARES, log onto amazoncares.org.Here, in part, is Dr. Imai’s story.A friend told me the day before I left for Peru thathe thought this was “it” for me, I was going to findtrue love on my trip! While I laughed and scoffed, apart of me thought, maybe he’s right … this tripmust have SOME meaning. It was a last minute,spontaneous “Can we really do this?” and a mad scramble to get thetime off (that I didn’t really have and hadn’t requested in advance),find the funds, organize the flight, pack, etc. etc. etc. This herculeaneffort is not something I am normally prone to, unless the reward is tosit on a tropical beach with a daiquiri in hand.Yet for some reason, something told me I just needed to be a part ofthis trip! So here I was, getting ready to embark on a 15-hour flight tomeet up with a group of people I didn’t know, to spay and neuterstreet dogs on picnic tables, in rural areas of Peru! Fun, right? Since Iwas joining the group four days into the campaign, I spent one day inIquitos and then it was off to Requena, close to Brazil, where theinfernal heat is inescapable. It is a two-hour bus drive and a five-plushourbumpy boat ride from Iquitos. And this is where my story reallystarts …I lost my heart to a beautifully ugly, mangy, feisty, adorable street dogand a small town with a lot of soul and pride. Now, I know it’s clichéthat every veterinarian loves animals and wants to save them! It’s notunexpected and surely this is not a story that hasn’t been told athousand times. But I wasn’t one of those veterinarians. As much as Iwould love to take everything home, I knew I was in a poor countryand the reality is that every case appeals to a bleeding heart. You can’trescue them all.After a long exhausting bus and boat ride, we were tired, hungry, andnot feeling benevolent towards this small, crowded, poverty strickentown. We rolled up our sleeves and prepared to work in Requena.6But the people didn’t want to sterilize their pets. They had no conceptof the benefits of it and only wanted preventative parasite treatments.As I thought to myself, “Why are we here when they don’t even wantour help?,” Molly (Mednikow), the director and founder of AmazonCARES, assured us this was normal and she would have to educate andtalk them into it – and sure enough she did! Meanwhile, Harry, ouramazing Peruvian veterinary technician aka dog wrangler, and a groupof government worker volunteers headed out to catch street dogs. Notmore than 20 minutes later, they were back with a cage full of dogsand we were off and running!Imagine my surprise when, less than 30 minuteslater, owners began handing over pets to besterilized! I could see the concern and love in theireyes and knew these animals were very much lovedfamily members. As I continued to survey thecommotion and bustle that was starting I wassurprised to note that many people were standingfor hours watching us take care of the animals. Theybegan offering aid, or offering to watch their dogsrecover. They listened closely to go homeinstructions.I noticed women assisting us with washing laundry– the used surgical drapes and towels – and the menstringing up lines for them to dry. The mayorstopped in with his workers, bringing us soda and water during thehottest part of the day. I realized these people were doing everythingthey could to help us. What a lot of pride they have in their city!Among the stray dogs brought in was a small terrier cross I barelynoticed. I was not the one who spayed her and would not have seenher except for the snatches of conversation heard while I was spayingan owner-owned dog. Apparently, this little terrier cross spay wascomplicated because it turns out she had two ovaries, but only oneuterine horn. Her spay was completed, my spay was completed; all inall about 25 procedures were done during the day. We wrapped upand headed home, excited that the next day we had a free day fromwork.Back to work a few days later, we opened the gate, and to ourimmense surprise there was that little terrier cross sleeping in thewire kennels! Trust me, stray dogs DO not stick around. We were trulysurprised! She darted away and I followed her to the bathroom whereshe had tucked herself behind the toilet. She looked sluggish and Ithought “Oh my gosh! Thepoor thing went through asurgical procedure andhasn’t had any food or waterfor two days!” I grabbed achicken sandwich that oneof the other vets hadpurchased to medicate the

street dogs with (nobody wanted to put their hands down a straydog’s throat to pill them) and slowly gave the little dog small pieces.She ate them hungrily and all of a sudden became a new dog. Her tailbegan to wag and she followed me around, begging for morehandouts. She knew a good thing when she saw it! I noticed a pack ofblack flies following her (most dogs have mange and secondary “hotspots” – open skin infections – that attract flies) and sprayed her withmore Frontline. Although she yelped and jumped since it was stingingher open wounds, she never tried to bite me. Impressed (she was astreet dog after all), I went to workbut told her that if she was stillaround later I would buy her achicken sandwich.Throughout the day, I would lookaround to see if the little dog was stillthere. She was! She would cool downin the bathroom and take a nap, thenwake up and meander around thetables watching us. Every time I tooka break or things were slow,somehow, I found myself gravitatingtoward the chicken sandwich andsneaking her pieces. I found myselfsaying “aqui” and noticed she wouldjump up and run to me. Finally Idecided to see if she would let mepick her up. I gave her some covetedbeef jerky I had in my pack andreached down warily. She twitched and jumped and then accepted myarms around her. I was really shocked and lifted her into my lap. Shepromptly lay down and relaxed. As I looked down at myself holdingthis smelly, yeasty, greasy, scabby, mange-covered mostly hairless dogwith flies around her, I thought, “Uh oh. I’m in trouble. If I can holdthis stinky little thing and actually cuddle it, it has already stolen myheart.” At that exact moment, when my heart knew I was going to takeher but my head was still arguing against it, that little dog lifted herhead and licked my face! And with that one stinky kiss, I was a goner.After some antibiotics and treatment over the next 48 hours, she wasvastly improved. So that should be the conclusion with a happyending. But every story, every rescue, has its challenges and I wasabout to discover mine. After finally committing to bring my new littledog home, starting treatments, getting a rabies vaccine, healthcertificate, etc., I discovered that the airline I was on did not fly petson Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Even worse, Luis, the head Peruvian vetat Amazon CARES, advised me that with her skin condition not fullyhealed, the Peruvian or Mexican officials could detain her, and me,indefinitely in the airport. So, with a heavy heart and a completefeeling of abandoning my new responsibility, I had no choice but toleave her for the moment.So how does this end? It is at these times when we struggle most thatyou see the best of people. The group of people that I came downwith, people I had just met less than two weeks ago, all tried to thinkof a solution. Most would have brought her, had they flown a differentairline or a different day. Molly, the director, did in fact offer to bringher to me in October when she returned to the United States. It is alot to ask of someone, and yet she offered with no hesitation. Luis andBetjaney, the Amazon CARES Peruvian veterinarian and technician,were already administering her medications and bathing her withmedicated shampoos for me.I know that she will be well taken care of in my absence, and that myresponsibility has kindly been accepted as theirs. Not one person toldme to give up, leave her behind, or that I was crazy in trying to bring aforeign dog home. While I am sad and disappointed that I do not haveher with me yet, I know that I will have her soon, and in the meantimeshe is in the best possible care with truly loving, kind people. So, in theend I did find love in Peru. I have a cherished new dog, a “secondfamily” that is rooting and helping me with her, and a lot of respect fora little town that can barely support its people, yet found a way towelcome us, and help treat their stray dogs that are not consideredsimply nuisances, but rather an integral part of the heart and soul ofthe town.And by the way, I named her “Quita,” as a constant reminder of Iquitos.Epilogue:Finally, in September, Quita made it to America via Molly, the AmazonCARES director. She transported her to Georgia and finally after severalmishaps and attempts, Quita boarded a plane to San Jose, Calif., wheremy brother, Kevin, lives. (I live in Redding and do not have a largeairport). Kevin and his wife Kym watched Quita for me for a fewmonths as I was recuperating from knee surgery. At Christmas, myentire family including Quita, came to Redding. I said “Quita” andyelled “aqui” and I could see her eyes light up with recognition! Sheremembered me and jumped right into my arms!Quita instantly gotalong with the restof my animalfamily and had ablast playing withthem. Alas, when itcame time to leave,I could see she hadbonded to Kody,my brother’s dog,and my brotherand his wife. Ifdogs could cry, Iswear Kody wouldhave, thinking hisbest friend andplaymate wasbeing taken fromhim. It was clear he loved her and Quita returned that love with all herheart and soul! Also, while Kevin and Kym thought they could easilygive Quita back to me, clearly, she had sneaked into their hearts andthey realized how much they had come to love her.So, with both a sad but happy (for my Quita) heart, I sent her back toSan Jose to live with them where she belonged. Today, she rules thehouse like a princess! So our fairytale ending is that everybody ownsQuita! We share “custody” and I get to be the indulgent, spoiling auntwith extended dog sitting visits, as well as her primary veterinarian.Everybody is so happy Quita joined the Imai clan and rescuing herwas one of the best things I ever did!7

PreCePTOr PrOfILeBanfield Pet HospitalsBanfield Pet Hospitals have opened numerous locations throughout Southern California in the past decade, and several of those locationsserve as clinical sites for students from the WesternU College of Veterinary Medicine. Here is a look at two of them:Pomona - Western University of Health SciencesBANFIELD, THE PET HOSPITAL ON THE WESTERNU CAMPUS opened in 2008under the direction of Chief of Staff David Clark, DVM, DABVP(canine/feline). Dr. Clark came to WesternU after a stint at the Banfieldhospital in Fullerton. He is responsible for the operations of the hospital, aswell as providing support in a teaching role for the third-year medicinecourse in the College of Veterinary Medicine at WesternU. He also is incharge of the Banfield wellness rotations for first- and second-year students.Students from the University’s Collegeof Veterinary Medicine spend coursetime and perform rotations at thehospital under the direction of Dr.Clark. On Tuesday and Thursdays, six toseven first-year students are at thehospital in the mornings, while thesame amount of second-year studentsare there on Tuesday and Thursdayafternoons. They rotate through thehospital once every 8 weeks.“Primarily, they are getting introducedto clinical patients and developing theirclinical skills,” Dr. Clark explained. “Theyare learning to do physical exams, basicclinical tests and various treatments.These students work on pets thatbelong to other students, faculty andstaff from WesternU. Occasionally, theywill work on rescue or shelter animals.”Third-year students participate in a twoweekrotation, similar to what is donewith other preceptors. Usually, six toseven students are involved with thirdyearcoursework, along with four faculty members. The students workwith patients from rescue groups as well as shelter animals that need care.Fourth-year students – one to three at a time – perform a month-longrotation in the clinic.The staff at the WesternU Banfield is a mix of University and Banfield employees,according to Dr. Clark. There are 10 staff members – seven from Banfield and three fromWesternU – three WesternU clinicians who help with rotations, one resident and Dr. Clark.He praises the WesternU system and the veterinarians who graduate from the University.“I do truly believe in the curriculum and the problem-based learning sessions. I thinkthese students have an advantage when they get out. I see a huge growth from the first tothe fourth years, and I get to see how the pieces all fall together.”Banfield, The Pet Hospital, 611 E. Second St., Pomona, CA 91766(909) 865-2433; www.banfield.comDr. Clark, right, with client servicescoordinator Scott Nowitzki8

FullertonTHE FULLERTON LOCATION opened aboutseven years ago, according to Chief ofStaff Ben Narynski, BVSc, who has beenat the locale for five years. The smallanimal general practice operates withthree veterinarians, seven techniciansand two client service coordinators.Dr. Narynski has served as a preceptorfor four years, with from one to threestudents for each two-week rotation.“Their responsibilities involveBen Narynski, BVScpartnering with a vet and tech on casesand assisting with the workup, whichincludes getting a history from the client, doing a full physical exam,running diagnostics, and communicating with the client abouttreatment plans,” according to Dr. Narynski. The students also assist intreatments and surgeries, help discharge pets, explain dischargeinstructions and medications to owners, and write medical notes.“Overall, the preceptor experience has been very positive,” saidDr. Narynski. “Most students have had the right attitude and motivationcoming into this rotation and, hence, teaching them new skills orknowledge becomes very natural and satisfying. In general, WesternUvet students have been extremely helpful with assisting us in themanagement of cases and sometimes with knowledge as well.”“There have been some groups of students we grew really attached toand it’s sometimes sad to see them go, but at the end we are bothgrateful for the experience we have had.”Dr. Narynski said he hopes that students in the rotation “get what theyneed out of this, whether it’s clinical skills, basic surgery skills orknowledge. We allow plenty of hands-on clinical practice at our clinicso they have a lot of opportunities to brush up on clinical skills. We tryto quiz them on cases as we go but we encourage them to askquestions as well. We also promote client interaction and try to getstudents involved as much as possible with communication andinteraction with clients, which is key to gaining confidence andeventually becoming a successful vet.”He noted that during the time the practice has served as a clinical site,“I’ve been extremely impressed with the students’ level of knowledgeand clinical and surgical skills. Honestly, I am not sure if I was asimpressive myself at the same stage of my vet degree.”Banfield, The Pet Hospital, 1411 S. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, CA 92832(714) 203-6744; www.banfield.comMarc Togneri: First ABVP Resident for WesternU CVMFROM AN EARLY AGE, MARC TOGNERI, DVM, knew hisfuture. “Being a veterinarian was the only thing I everthought of,” he recalls. “I grew up behind a horse farmin Maryland.”Dr. Togneri moved from there to the University ofMassachusetts for his undergraduate work then on toWestern University of Health Sciences, where heearned his DVM in 2009. In 2009-2010, he started asmall animal internship program at the WesternUBanfield Hospital on campus, followed by a clinicalinstructor position in 2010-2011. In July 2011, he begana two-year American Board of Veterinary Practitioners(canine/feline) residency with WesternU, the first in theCVM’s history.He enjoys the work, especially interacting withstudents. Among his other duties are teaching basicclinical techniques to first and second year studentsand abdominal ultrasonography to fourth year students.In his down time, Dr. Togneri enjoys hiking, biking,gardening and hanging out with his wife and two dogs.Eventually he would like to return to the East Coastwith his veterinary skills, but for now, he’s happy to bebreaking new ground for the CVM.9

Annual Gala Marks Milestone AnniversaryWESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES CELEBRATED ITS 35THANNIVERSARY and the successful conclusion of its Capital Campaignat its annual “A Tribute to Caring” gala at the Disneyland Hotel inAnaheim, Calif. The event, held Nov. 10, 2012, raised about$125,000 for student scholarships. Half of the proceeds will godirectly to scholarships this year and half will be placed into anendowment, which now exceeds $900,000The theme of this year’s gala, “Look How Far You’ve Brought Us,”acknowledged the staff, faculty, supporters and students whomade WesternU what it istoday. WesternU started in1977 as the College ofOsteopathic Medicine ofthe Pacific and has growninto a comprehensivehealth professionsuniversity that combinesscientific excellence and ahumanistic, compassionateapproach to patient care.“We’re pleased that so manyof you have been with usfrom the beginning of thisjourney, and our circle offriends continues to growand thrive,” said WesternUFounding President PhilipPumerantz, PhD. “I alsothank each and every oneof you for your generositytonight. Your contributionto A Tribute to Caring ensures that new generations of healers willhave the resources to fulfill their dreams, the same dreams we hadwhen COMP was created in 1977.”WesternU gave special recognition to A Tribute to Caring SilverSponsors Wells Fargo Bank, AmerisourceBergen/GNP andFairplex/Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center/TheLearning Centers at Fairplex.This year’s event celebrated the successful conclusion ofWesternU’s Capital Campaign, which had a goal of raising $35million by the University’s 35th anniversary on Sept. 4, 2012.When a university undertakes a capital campaign, a numberof elements go a long way in determining whether or not itwill be successful, said WesternU Senior Vice PresidentThomas G. Fox, PhD.One requirement is dedicated donors, and WesternU’s campaignattracted more than 2,500 donors, he said.“When a campaign for $35 million exceeds that total dramatically,and finishes in excess of $54 million, credit needs to be shared ina number of areas,” Dr. Fox said. “Obviously the deans anduniversity leadership have to be on board. The university has toprovide resources to develop a team of outstanding fundraisers,and certainly we were blessed with these commitments. However,the one indispensible element in any campaign is the campaignleadership. We were veryfortunate to have anexceptional core groupfor the campaignsteering committee.”The Capital CampaignSteering Committee waschaired by COMP’s firstgraduate Richard Bond,DO, DrPH, FAAFP, whoserves as the vicechairman of theWesternU Board ofTrustees. The steeringcommittee also includedboard members MikeQuick and Vincent J.Naimoli, MBA, and LendaNaimoli.Donors who contributed$1 million or more tothe campaign were givenspecial recognition: Drs. Daljit and Elaine Sarkaria; MasterfoodsUSA Inc.; Don A. Anderson, DO; Banfield Pet Hospital; the HaroldW. Harris Foundation; Lawrence F. Gosenfeld, DO; FamilyCareHealth Plans Inc.; Dr. and Mrs. Philip Pumerantz; and Dr. and Mrs.Richard Bond.Masterfoods USA and Banfield, The Pet Hospital each gave morethan $1 million to the College of Veterinary Medicine.“Without their contributions we would not have been able torecruit the extraordinary faculty and staff that we have to developthe innovative curriculum in veterinary medicine,” said College ofVeterinary Medicine Dean Phillip Nelson, DVM, PhD. “In a word,we are appreciative.”10

I N T E R N A T I O N A L C O N N e C T I O NVisiting Scholar from Iraq Spends a Month at WesternUWESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES’ novel approach toeducating its students is drawing attention and acclaim – evenaround the globe. In the fall, Dr. Mohanad Al-Bayati, a veterinaryprofessor in Iraq, spent four weeks on the Pomona campus,immersed in the College of Veterinary Medicine and its problembasedlearning model.“You must learn to keep your mind fresh and open to new ideas,”said Dr. Al-Bayati, who hailed from the University of BaghdadCollege of Veterinary Medicine and said he would like tointroduce the PBL way to his students. He shadowed WesternUCVM Professor Wael Khamas, BVMS, MS, PhD – whom hedescribed as “famous” in Iraq for his veterinary work. Dr. Al-Bayatiwas assisted by Dr. Khamas in research as he learned methods ofsertoli and spermatogonia cells isolation and identification. He isplanning to present classroom seminars in Iraq about theseprocedures and techniques.“Now in Iraq we have a traditional classroom environment,”Dr. Al-Bayati explained. “I like this program at WesternU. I will takeit back to my colleagues in Iraq and hope they will be interestedin PBL. I would like to perfect these methods.”Dr. Khamas said his mission in inviting Dr. Al-Bayati to WesternUwas to help his homeland build up their system of highereducation. Many peoplewith vast experienceeither died or left Iraqwhen they retired,leaving a vacuum inknowledge. “Now it’sour chance,” Dr. Khamascontinued. “We have tohelp them.”Dr. Al-Bayati’s trip wassponsored through theMinistry of HigherEducation and Research in Iraq. It took nearly six months tocomplete the necessary paperwork for the one-month stay butboth men said the outcome was worth the time and effort.“This opens doors for us (at WesternU),” Dr. Khamas said. “He willgo back and tell others and develop a course.” Students in Iraq,who didn’t even have internet access before 2003, “willunderstand how the world is working. We are helping thembecause it’s a win-win situation.”Dr. Al-Bayati concurred and viewed his stay another way. “I hopeto help close the scientific gap between cultures and civilizations.”Chinese Delegation Visits CampusThis past fall, Henry Yoo, DVM, MSc, MBA, a local veterinarian and friend of the WesternU College of Veterinary Medicine, hosteda visit by a delegation of Chinese veterinarians and scientists. Dr. Yoo describes the delegation, which came to the WesternUcampus on Nov. 1, 2012, as the top 16 people making veterinary medical decisions for China. They visited campus seekingcontacts and knowledge for their future expansion in veterinary education.Members of the CVM had an opportunity to share information about the CVM program and to begin a global relationship with theChinese delegation. Following a greeting by Dean Phillip Nelson, DVM, PhD, Associate Dean Stephen Waldhalm, DVM, PhD,moderated the day’s program. Curriculum Director Ron Terra, DVM, MS, MBA, presented “Our curriculum and philosophy asrelated to the training of veterinary students in their disease prevention/control and reporting. Private practice and US Governmentinteraction.”CVM Professor James Reynolds, DVM, MPVM, and Associate Professor Jose Peralta, DVM, MSc, PhD, reviewed, “Issues ofhumane animal care in the US.” Assistant Professor Helen Engelke, BVSc, MPVM, MRCVS; Associate Professor and Director ofOutcomes Assessment Peggy Schmidt, DVM, MS,DACVPM, and Professor Malika Kachani, DVM, PhD,spoke on “Veterinary roles in Public Health and theeducation/certification strategy and experiences.”Associate Professor Diane McClure, DVM, PhD,DACLAM, reviewed, “Disease surveillance, Legislativeframework & Outbreak response.” Associate DeanTeresa Morishita, DVM, MPVM, MS, PhD, DACPV, leda question and answer session regarding curriculum.WesternU CVM Associate Professor Yiling Hong, PhD,and Assistant Professor Jijun Hao, PhD, providedChinese translation.11

RESEARCH A PRIORITY AT WESTERNU’S CVMTHE COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE at Western University of HealthSciences is committed to expanding its research program as a keycomponent in training veterinary students, advancing scientificknowledge, improving animalhealth and well-being, andsupporting the researchinterests of faculty members.The research facilities availableto the CVM on the Pomona,Calif., campus haveconsequently been reorganizedand expanded tomeet the needs of the maturingprogram.The laboratory spaces allocatedto the CVM are located in threebuildings within closeproximity to each other at WesternU: Banfield Veterinary Clinic Center(BVCC), the University Research Center (URC), and the HealthEducation Center (HEC).In the BVCC, an approximately 300-square-foot room serves the needsof non-terminal research. This room is used for storing equipmentutilized in clinical projects and, among other things, it is equipped withtwo computers and desks for faculty,visitors and students working onscholarly writing or data analysis.The laboratory in URC, located at thewest end of the WesternU campus,comprises an 8,550-square-foot researcharea which is subdivided into differentdepartmental laboratories. Thedesignated CVM laboratory is a 1,540-square-foot space with a 120-square-footcell culture room. Adjacent to this CVMlab, shared equipment is accessible in a3,000-square-foot laboratory.The newest addition to the research facilities is the laboratory in theHEC, at the east end of campus.The CVM research space in thisbuilding comprises a newly remodeled 200-square-foot lab strictly12

dedicated to the isolation and culture ofstem cells as well as a 100-square-footclimate-controlled room used solely forcomputational infrastructure. Adjacent tothis room, the CVM has access to sharedequipment in a 12,640-square-footlaboratory.“I am very pleased to see research placed atthe forefront of our priorities,” said AssociateDean for Research Dominique Griffon,DMV, MS, PhD, DACVS, DECVS. “The recentre-organization of our laboratory space inthe URC and the addition of research space within the HEC buildingcampus have gone a long way in addressing the current needs of ourresearchers and students. Thisexpansion of our infrastructure was aprerequisite to the recruitment ofskilled scientists, and speaks of ourcommitment to meet the needs of theCVM’s future growth in research.”Embryonic stem cells from miceSix faculty and staff members currentlyperform research in the new HEC lab,devoting their time to the study of stemcells. These are Dr. Griffon; CVM LabManager Hannah Mirrashed, PhD;Assistant Professor Jijun Hao, PhD;Associate Professor Yiling Hong, PhD;and Research Technicians Jane Cho,PhD, and Jose Aguilar, PhD.Dr. Hong lauded the California researchclimate, calling the state “stem cell friendly.”Her research focuses on stem cellreprogramming and nanotoxicity testingwith a stem cell model.Dr. Hao’s current research focus includesimproving iPS cell reprogramming methods.In fact, he published a review article in arecent volume of the journal BioMedResearch International, “Current Stem CellDelivery Methods for Myocardial Repair.” Dr.Hao is the corresponding author on thispaper, which describes the background upon which Dr. Hao andcollaborators have established their stem cell differentiation research.TWO OF THE NEW COLLEGE OF VETERINARYMEDICINE faculty members performing researchat WesternU are Jijun Hao, PhD, and YilingHong, PhD. Both are working primarily withstem cells.Dr. Hao, an assistant professor at WesternU,started with the CVM in August 2012 fromVanderbilt University Medical Center inNashville, Tenn., where he had been a researchJijun Hao assistant professor since 2010. Prior to that, hewas a research fellow at Vanderbilt from 2004 to 2010. Dr. Hao earnedhis BS at East China University of Science and Technology in Shanghaiin 1996 and his PhD from University of Leeds in the United Kingdomin 2003.The son of farmers in China, Dr. Hao said his dream growing up was tobecome a scientist. His stem cell research took on a more personalmotivation after his mother died of cancer. His findings have beenpublished in dozens of periodicals and publications. His currentresearch focuses mainly on three areas: 1) improving iPS cellreprogramming methods; 2) chemical approaches for stem cell/iPS cellcardiomyogenesis, and 3) zebrafish-based drug screening.Dr. Hong is an associate professor in the areasof stem cell biology and nanotoxicity. She haspublished more than 20 papers. Her researchhas been funded by the National Institutes ofHealth.She earned a BS in Biology from XiamenUniversity, Xiamen, Fujian, China, in 1984followed by an MS in Molecular Biology andGenetics in 1987, also from Xiamen University.Yiling Hong She came to the United States for her PhD,earning that degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology from theUniversity of Kentucky in 1997. That was followed by post-doctoralwork at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.“Science is a lot more advanced in western countries,” said Hong,noting that her natural curiosity led to a career in science and itschallenging work. She praises the stem-cell friendly atmosphere inCalifornia, which she says is much more receptive to study.She is married with two children, a daughter in sixth grade and a sonin college.He is married with two sons, one in preschool the other in sixthgrade.13

C V M N e w sCAMPUS EVENTSThe California Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps (CVMRC) hosted theAmerican Humane Association, Red Star Training group, in a two-dayseminar March 16-17, 2013, on the WesternU campus. The program’sobjective was to help participants learn skills needed to plan for andimplement emergency sheltering for companion animals during andafter a disaster, whether at the local or national level.Topics included identifying viable locations for emergency animalshelters in communities, designing and setting up an emergencyanimal shelter, public information officer and media relations skills andduties, identification and record keeping, daily routines in the care ofanimals, decontamination, and safety and security concerns.Carol Chitko-McKown, PhD, an immunologist working with theovine lentivirus, Ovine Progressive Pneumonia Virus (OPPV), presenteda seminar on Feb. 8, 2013, at WesternU. Her seminar presentation wastitled “Recent Advances in OPPV Research at the U.S. Meat AnimalResearch Center,” and relates to control of the lentivirus in sheeppopulations. Dr. Chitko-McKown, who has been with the USDAAgricultural Research Service, Roman L. Hruska U. S. Meat AnimalResearch Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Neb. since 1998, is wellknown for her research, having also served as a grant review panelmember for the USDA. The College of Veterinary Medicine, ResearchAdvisory Committee sponsored her visit. She is also a frequentcontributor to the body of scientific knowledge in the area of FoodAnimal Production and Health and chairs the Area’s Diversity TaskForce at the USMARC.FACULTY NOTESAssistant Professor Miguel Saggese, DVM, MS,PhD, was for a second time invited to Madrid,Spain, on Nov. 25, 2012 to give a full-day seriesof lectures on avian, rodents, rabbit and reptileanesthesia. This event was organized byImprove Iberica (the Iberian Peninsula), anaffiliate of Improve International, a nongovernmentalorganization with a goal toprovide “Continuous Professional Developmentfor Veterinarians in Europe.” These lectureswere part of a year-long course on exoticMiguel Saggeseanimal medicine offered as continuing education to veterinarians.After successful completion of a final exam at the European School ofVeterinary Postgraduate Studies, veterinarians receive a GeneralPractitioner Certificate in Exotic Animal Practice.Instructor Betsy Charles, DVM, MA, publisheda paper titled, “An Approach to ImagingAlgorithms for Equine Lameness Diagnosis.”The article appears in a monograph collection“Veterinary Clinics of North America: EquinePractice” that is a premier resource forcontinuing education for veterinary medicine.programs including the Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE). Mostrecently she was invited to present a leadership workshop at theAVMA’s Veterinary Leadership Conference titled “The VeterinaryLeadership Experience Approach to Leadership.” This conference washeld in early January, 2013, in Chicago.Assistant Professor Jennifer Buur, DVM,DACVCP, PhD, has published with several CVMcolleagues an article titled “Validation of ascenario based assessment of critical thinkingusing an externally validated tool.” TheAssessment of Critical Thinking (ACT) has beenan important element in evaluation of DVMdegree students at WesternU. Others from theCVM who contributed were Peggy Schmidt,DVM, MS, DACVPM; Dean Smylie, DVM;Jennifer BuurKristopher Irizarry, PhD; John Tyler, DVM,DACVIM; Peggy Barr, DVM, PhD, and Carlos Crocker, MS, PhD(currently at St. Matthews University).Professor Joe Bertone, DVM, MS, DACVIM, wasinterviewed for an article that will appear in“Waterway Guide,” the cruising authoritymagazine. Dr. Bertone, Student Doctor ChinaPrentice DVM ’15 and the Tsavos VeterinaryRehabilitation Center in Del Mar, Calif., havebeen developing methods for evaluation ofcanine floatation devices (CFDs) effective invarious water environments. CFDs are notregulated and often go untested.VETERINARY DATABASE NAME CHANGEThe Veterinary Science Database at the Pumerantz Library on theWesternU campus has a new name: VetMed Resource. This is an onlineresource designed to support veterinary practitioners, technicians andothers working in this field by providing comprehensive and highquality information. In addition to all of the journals, proceedings, andcompendiums available with Veterinary Science Database, the librarynow has access to bulletins, CAB reviews, and the Animal Health andProduction Compendium. For questions regarding VetMed Resource,please contact the Reference and Outreach Department atreference@westernu.edu.NEW FACESWelcome to the newest additions to the College of VeterinaryMedicine family at Western University of Health Sciences:Kimberly Jones,Director of Student AffairsTeresa McGowan,Administrative Assistant IIJoe BertoneBetsy CharlesDr. Charles has been active in organizationalleadership development through variousKimberly Jones14

Thousands attend CVM Open HouseFor the eighth year, the College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University of HealthSciences showcased its programs and profession during the annual community Open Houseon April 6, 2013.Among the highlights of the 2013 day-long affair, which ran from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., were thereturn of the mobile aquarium from the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, PomonaPolice Department K-9 unit demonstrations, microchipping, shelter pet adoptions, and petvaccinations. CVM Students hosted booths on pet care, tours were provided of the collegeand Banfield, the Pet Hospital, and food vendors also were on hand.In addition, as in past years, hundreds of Boy and Girl Scouts participated in the event,earning scouting badges as they learned about various aspects of animal care. A pre-eventposter contest involving local schools also was part of the fun, with posters displayed at theOpen House featuring the 2013 theme, “What Is the Importance of a Veterinarian?”Veterinary Business ManagementAssociation Hosts 3rd Annual SymposiumWesternU’s Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA)hosted the 3rd Annual Symposium in late January. The eventoffered an opportunity for students and veterinarians to gainvaluable veterinary-related business information on managingloans and personal finances, financing their futures,communicating effectively with clients, and how to be asuccessful veterinarian in today’s economy.The day-long event in WesternU’s Health Education Centerfeatured guest speakers Ernie Ward, DVM, Cornel Catrina, and StithKeiser.Dr. Ward spoke on “Performing the Perfect Physical Exam:Communicating Compassion and Expertise” and “What You Needto Know to Succeed During the Next 20 Years.” He is a 1992graduate of the University of Georgia College of VeterinaryMedicine, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention(APOP), and author of “Chow Hounds: Why Our Dogs Are GettingFatter - A Vet’s Plan to Save Their Lives.” Dr. Ward also is a founderand board member for the International Veterinary Senior CareSociety (IVSCS) and has been a member of the Editorial AdvisoryBoard for Veterinary Economics since 1999.Ms. Catrina spoke on “Managing Student Loan Debt, PersonalFinances and Personal Investing.” She is an associate with GLAdvisor, the advisory subsidiary of Graduate Leverage, a studentdebt advisory service started eight years ago as part of a researchproject by students at Harvard Business School.Mr. Keiser talked about “The Economy’s Effect on Practices andWhy it Matters to You.” He is the business manager of CareerDevelopment and My Veterinary Career for the American AnimalHospital Association.The College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University ofHealth Sciences offered continuing education (CE) credits foranyone attending the symposium.The VBMA is a student-driven organization dedicated to advancingthe profession through increasing business knowledge, creatingnetworking opportunities, and empowering students to achievetheir personal and professional goals. For more information, visitvbmawesternu.org or email vbmaclub@westernu.edu.15

eSeArCHUpdateJoe BertoneProfessor Joe Bertone, DVM, MS, DACVIM, coauthoredan article titled, “What’s that leglump?” in Equus magazine. Equus provides thelatest information on understanding andinfluencing equine behavior, recognizing thewarning signs of illness and disease, and solvingriding and training problems. The completecitation is: Frank K, Bertone J. “What’s that leglump?” Equus October 2012;(421):24-31.Associate Professor Lyon Lee, DVM, PhD,DACVA, presented two anesthetic researchstudies at the tenth World Congress ofVeterinary Anesthesia in Cape Town, SouthAfrica on Sept 25, 2012. The first talk,“Capnography Guided Intubation in Rabbits asan Alternative to Laryngoscope GuidedIntubation,” described a unique challenge forroutine endotracheal intubation in rabbits, andtested the effectiveness of capnography guidedLyon Leeintubation over laryngoscope guided intubation.The study reports significantly reduced time in intubating rabbits bothby a mainstream (the superior method) and a sidestream capnographcompared to laryngoscopy intubation. Authors in this abstract includeWesternU colleague and Associate Professor John Tyler, DVM,DACVIM, and three doctors from Seoul National University. Thesecond talk, “Peri-Operative Corneal Ulcer After Non-ocular Surgery inDogs,” described a retrospective study performed to evaluate theincidence and risk factors including duration of anesthesia, small sizedskull and use of a fentanyl patch for the development of peri-operativecorneal ulcers after non-ocular surgery under general anesthesia indogs. Authors also include three Seoul National University doctors.Assistant Professor Babak Faramarzi, DVM,MSc, CVA, PhD, presented his findings at theAmerican College of Veterinary Radiologists(ACVR) Annual Scientific Meeting in October,2012, in Las Vegas, Nev. It is titled, “Detection ofFractures of the Palmar Processes of the DistalPhalanx in Foals.” The abstract is published inconference proceedings of this meeting.Collaborators include CVM Assistant ProfessorSpring Halland, DVM, CVA, DACVIM; Dr.Babak FaramarziHoward Dobson, University of Guelph, HeadRadiologis); Dr. Andrew Kaneps, former UC Davis professor andcurrently a surgeon at a private referral practice. Dr. Faramarziacknowledges the Southern California horse owners who graciouslyallowed the studies on their foals for this project and also extendedthanks to WesternU Student Doctor Michelle Crupi, DVM ’14, whoworked hard and received scholarships from the Morris AnimalFoundation and AHA supporting her while working on the project.Assistant Professor Pedro Diniz, DVM, PhD,has published another element of his research.This paper is the result of a collaborationbetween WesternU, UC Davis, North CarolinaState University, the U.S. Army, and NihonUniversity. “Candidatus Bartonella merieuxii, aPotential New Zoonotic Bartonella Species inCanids from Iraq.” The research documentedand named a new blood-borne pathogen incanids located at the military bases in Iraq.Pedro DinizProfessor Malika Kachani, DVM, PhD, hasbeen recognized on an international stagethrough the following:• She was invited by the World HealthOrganization to attend the ExtraordinarySession of the Strategic and Technical AdvisoryGroup Meeting on Neglected Tropical Diseases(STAG NTD) on Oct. 9, 2012 at theMalika Kachani headquarters of the World Health Organization.The objective of the meeting was to reach a consensus on the STAGNTD report, to scorecard for monitoring progress on preventivechemotherapy and to prepare a UN resolution for the ExecutiveBoard and for the World Health Assembly, the decision-making bodyof WHO.• She was invited by the Centers for Disease Control to evaluate theRabies Control program of the CDC in the USA and at the globallevel, on Oct. 29-30, 2012. She was a member of an evaluationcommittee of six international experts.• On Nov. 21, she was invited by the WHO to be a member of their listof experts on zoonotic diseases. The experts are tasked to share theirexpertise and knowledge with the WHO and inform them onimportant facts and progress that took place in their area ofexpertise.• She was invited by the USDA to attend the Veterinary LaboratoryDiagnostic Course on Foreign Animal Diseases in Plum Island, onDec 3-7. The USDA invited faculty involved in the AccreditationProgram and teach Global Health in all veterinary schools in the USAand covered the expenses associated with the course.16

e S e A r C HVETERINARY SMALL ANIMAL INTERNIST andAssistant Professor Linda Kidd DVM, PhD,DACVIM, presented continuing educationand research lectures benefiting nationaland international audiences of veterinarians.In addition, Dr. Kidd has received fundingfor two grants and prominently representedWestern University of Health Sciences at theCentral Veterinary Conference–West in SanDiego, Calif., in December.Among the presentations is discussion of her work conducted onthe WesternU campus in collaboration with CVM Professor PeggyBarr, DVM, PhD; a number of Southern California veterinarians(Core curriculum partners), and collaborating universities.Recently Dr. Kidd spoke at the following four venues on topicsrelated to her research and clinical practice:• American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine’s AnnualForum in New Orleans, La. May 31, 2012. Comprehensivereview lecture titled “Use and misuse of diagnostic panels incanine vector borne disease testing.”• American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine AnnualMeeting, New Orleans, La., May 31, 2012. Oral research abstractpresentation titled “Arthropod-borne disease in sick SouthernCalifornia dogs.” The author list is: Kidd L, Barr M, Lappin M,Breitschwerdt E, Osmond C, Hart J, Hill S, Richter K. Resultsfrom a collaborative research project between WesternUniversity of Health Sciences, Core Small Animal InternalMedicine preceptor sites, Colorado State University and NorthCarolina State University were presented at this internationalspecialty forum. This study was funded by an intramuralresearch grant from WesternU.• Companion Animal Medicine Infectious Disease Sessions at theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association’s Annual Meeting inSan Diego, Calif. Aug. 4, 2012. A lecture titled “Rocky mountainspotted fever and other rickettsioses.”• Advanced Hematology Course for the Veterinary InformationNetwork Sept. 27, 2012, an international online continuingeducation forum for practicing veterinarians. A lecture titled“Mechanisms of thrombosis in immune mediated hemolyticanemia, mechanisms and treatment implications.”Her funded studies are:• “Procoagulant microparticles in canine immune mediatedhemolytic anemia.” This grant was funded by the AmericanCollege of Veterinary Internal Medicine Foundation withmatching funds provided by the CVM’s Associate Dean ofResearch. The study is a collaborative project between theCollege of Veterinary Medicine, a CVM fourth-year clinicalteaching site, California Veterinary Specialists, and theUniversity of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Department ofMedicine.• “Prevalence of vector borne disease in dogs with clinical signsof immune mediated disease using multiple modality testing.”This study will use multiple modality testing to determine theprevalence of vector borne disease in dogs with clinical signsof immune mediated disease. The grant was funded by theCanine Health Foundation and the CVM’s Associate Dean ofResearch. Preliminary data for the study was generated from astudy funded by a Western University of Health SciencesIntramural Grant.At the Central Veterinary Conference – West, Dr. Kidd presented,“A clinical approach to disorders of primary hemostasis;” “Whatyou need to know about the cell-based model of coagulation”;“Diagnostic testing for disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis”;“What’s new in the pathophysiology of thrombosis in patientswith predisposing underlying disease?” “Prevention of thrombosis:Does pathophysiology of thrombus formation matter?” “Whichunderlying diseases should I screen for in dogs with ImmuneMediated Hemolytic Anemia?” and “How to use PCR and serologyin vector-borne disease screening: Which test and when?”The lecture titled “How to use PCR and serology in vector-bornedisease screening: Which test and when” was flagged as a specialskills building session by the editors of the journal of VeterinaryMedicine and highlighted as such in the program. As a result, Dr.Kidd was invited to write a review article on this topic byVeterinary Medicine.CVM Dean Quoted in Ny Times StoryPhillip Nelson, DVM, PhD, dean of WesternU’s College of VeterinaryMedicine, was quoted extensively in a New York Times story on March 25,2013, about end-of-life care for pets.In the article, Dean Nelson noted that pets were family members, but saidtheir presence in the home forced owners to make relative value decisionswhen it came to the sanctity of life.The article continued:“We have to start comparing the value of our dog to our child or wife oranyone else who may require those resources,” he said. And hecontended that an even deeper debate was at play.“Our own life-value issues have evolved and not necessarily in a goodway,” he said. “I believe that, and this is a personal belief, that many of usare loath to have to face the end-of-life issues. And some of us have beenmesmerized by the advances of medicine.”The agonizing questions around human end-oflifemedical intervention have now made theirway to the pet kingdom, he said, and ownersoften feel guilty if they don’t do everythingpossible, no matter the cost, to save or extendtheir animals’ lives.“Death is part of the cycle of life, and we have toaccept that,” Dr. Nelson said. “The real questionhere is, how much of your resources do you invest in the extension of thatlife?”The full article can be found online athttp://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/26/your-money/costs-and-choices-mountfor-pets-end-of-life-care.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0.17

ArOUNDCampusMEMORIAL HONORS STAFFWestern University of Health Sciences is honoring staff memberswho died while employed at the University with a memorialplaque and tree planted in Ethan Allen, DO, Park.The plaque, which reads “This tree standsin memory of those staff employees whohave passed away while in service toWestern University of Health Sciences,”was placed next to a newly plantedcamphor tree. The names of sevenemployees are listed on the plaque.A number of years ago, a staff advisorycommittee recommended that somethingbe done to memorialize employees whodie while working at the University.Faculty members who died while at WesternU have been honoredwith plaques and tree plantings throughout campus.Chris Vander Veen from the College of Veterinary Medicine andDennis Parker from Facilities informed WesternU Senior VicePresident Thomas G. Fox, PhD, of the committee recommendation.Dr. Fox, who leads WesternU’s Office of Human Resources, wantedto follow through with the committee’s intent.“I thought it made sense that we do something to commemoratestaff as well as faculty,” he said, while also thanking WesternUPresident Philip Pumerantz, PhD, “for his support in respecting thememory of our valued employees, and Dennis Parker and ChrisVander Veen for keeping the idea alive.”WESTERNU PREVIEW DAY HELDThe Office of University Recruitment and Strategic EnrollmentManagement held its 14th WesternU Preview Day on Dec. 1, 2012,attracting 852 prospective students and their guests to campus.The day included opportunities for students to obtain informationabout their health profession program of interest, hear about theadmissions process, learn about financial aid, see curriculumfirsthand, discover how to become a competitive applicant, andmeet students and faculty. The next Preview Day event will beApril 27, 2013.ZORRO AUTHORS ON CAMPUS FOR READING EVENTAuthors Isabel Allende and Sandra Curtis provided insight into themasked swordman Zorro at Pomona’s Together We Read eventheld at Western University of Health Sciences on Nov. 1, 2012.Together We Read, sponsored by the Pomona Public Library, thecity of Pomona and WesternU, is designed to foster anappreciation and love for reading.Ms. Allende, a Chilean-American author, wrote the 2005 novel“Zorro,” revealing the history behind the legendary masked man.Her books have been translated into more than 30 languages andhave sold more than 57 million copies. Ms. Curtis, author of18“Zorro Unmasked: The Official History,” traces the history ofZorro from the first story by Johnston McCulley in 1919 to morerecent portrayals in film and print.The two authors talked about Zorro via teleconference fromNorthern California. David Kipen, book critic and founder ofLibros-Schmibros, a bookstore and lending library, provided thewelcome and author introductions.SANTA’S WORKSHOP BRINGSHOLIDAY CHEER TO LOCAL YOUTHStudents from Western University ofHealth Sciences provided Christmascheer, food, activities and gifts to 100children through the Los Angeles CountyDepartment of Children and FamilyServices during Santa’s Workshop onDec. 1, 2012.WesternU has been the proud host of Santa’s Workshop for thepast 24 years. The Student Government Association (SGA)organized the workshop with the support of the Office ofUniversity Student Affairs and the Los Angeles County Departmentof Children and Family Services.Children ranging from infants to 12 years old participated in artsand crafts, a Christmas play, a traditional holiday meal, and a visitfrom Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. An estimated 300 peopleattended and received meals.“I find it remarkable that the University has hosted this event forthe past 24 years,” said Michelle Tadros, director of UniversityStudent Affairs. “I’m amazed how much support we receive fromthe campus community.”The event raised more than $11,000 in contributions. The campuscommunity donated an estimated $7,000 in gifts, while localbusinesses, students, staff and faculty contributed more than$4,000 in cash, Tadros said.Local business organizations that contributed included DawsonCompany; Imperial Guard Service – Brett Boston; The GraceGroup; Inland Empire United Way; Jouni’s Catering; Pomona FrameHouse Main Street Gallery; Todd Memorial Chapel; U.S.A. Fit ForceTaekwondo Inc., and Valley Academies Foundation.WesternU community members who contributed included theHarriet K. and Philip Pumerantz Library; Aynun Begum;Christopher Bell; Dr. Lony Castro; Dr. Michelle Emmert; KathrynFord; Colleen Galindo; Susan Gebhard; Dr. Beverly Guidry; JeffKeating; Jeff Malet; Theresa Ortiz; Robert and Cathie Pechnick;Olive Stephens; Ashley Suplee and Family, and Jennifer Tran.In addition, the SGA, the student organization Humor ImprovTheater Squad, and the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Class of2015 contributed time to the event.

Always In Our Hearts: Stories fromPudgeBy Jack & Judy DavisWe brought Pudge home as a puppy, on June 6, 2001. He instantly became a member ofour family. Pudge loved our children, grandchildren and extended family as wasevidenced by his wagging tail and lapping tongue each time they visited throughout theyears.He slept with us nightly, usually taking up more than his fair share of the bed. Alwayswanting to be touching one of us, at times he even hugged us by laying his front leg andpaw over our neck.From the time he was a puppy until his last day, he would sit on Judy’s lap and be lovedon, or push Jack out of the chair or off the sofa so he could have it to himself.Pudge always enjoyed camping. As soon as camping supplies were readied, he followed to make sure he got to go, too.And he always did. Playing on the sand at the beach and frolicking in the waves was one of his favorite things to do. Atone campground we frequented, he decided to play tether ball with our granddaughter and then on his own. Peoplewould always stop to watch him and comment on how amazed and entertained they were by him.Over a period of several years, he had many health trials. Our vet called him “Pudgeriffic” because he had a strong willto live and overcame so many major illnesses. For this reason, we wanted Pudge’s life to matter even in death. Whileour hearts ached and we wanted to bring him home, our heads said, “Maybe students can learn what caused so many ofhis health issues so other dogs may not have to go through what he went through.”We miss our precious boy Pudge more than words can express, yet were blessed by him for almost 11 years.About the WAVe Program:THE COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE’S REVERENCE FOR LIFE COMMITMENT promises that animals will not beharmed in our teaching programs. A key element of this commitment is the WAVE (Willed deceased Animalsfor Veterinary Education) Program, which reaches out to animal owners to ask that they consider donatingtheir beloved pets’ remains to anatomy and clinical skills education at the college (WAVE Program is modeledafter the Human Willed Body Program at WesternU). More than 500 deceased animals have been donated tothe college in the last two years. These special animals are providing a greater quality of education to futuregenerations of veterinarians.All donations to WAVE must be deceased due to age, serious illness or injury. An animal that has no owner toapprove the donation of its remains will not be accepted. When you know that the death of your beloved petmight be imminent, and you live within 40 miles of the college, please ask your veterinarian about donatingto WAVE. Your veterinarian may contact Ms. Tami Miller at (909) 469-5597 to make all arrangements.Always in Our Hearts: Stories from WAVE appears as a regular feature in each issue of the Outlook.establishing a Pet TrustThose concerned about what willhappen to their animals should theirhuman caregivers becomeincapacitated or die might considerincluding provisions in an estateplan. One means of doing so is toestablish a charitable remainderunitrust to ensure their care in theevent disaster strikes. This can beeasily accomplished, andWesternU’s Planned Giving Office isavailable to assist in this process.For more information, contact OliveStephens, Planned Givingadministrator, (909) 469-5211 orostephen@westernu.edu.19

C l a s s o f 2 0 1 6 | C o l l e g e o f V e t e r i n a r y M e d i c i n eFirst-year CVM students are profiled throughout the yeareva AnguianoI grew up in Kent, Wash., near Seattle. I wentto the University of Nebraska-Lincoln andmajored in Biological Sciences with anemphasis in animal sciences. As anundergraduate I interned at a zoo and workedat a small animal practice. I’m interested inexotic and wildlife veterinary medicine.Melissa BergI am from Orange County, Calif., and received abachelor’s in Neurobiology from University ofCalifornia, Davis. During undergrad I worked forthe UC Davis Department of Research Surgerywhere I assisted surgeons in testingexperimental fetal cardiac bypass surgeries. Ihope to someday work as a campus veterinarianat a research university.I am from San Diego, Calif., and received mybachelor’s degree in Marine Biology fromUniversity of San Diego. I worked as alaboratory animal technician at University ofCalifornia, San Diego, and as a veterinaryassistant at a small animal emergency clinic.I am interested in small animal medicine.Michaela BryantI grew up in a military family primarily inClarksville, Tenn., and received bachelor’sdegrees in Biology and AgriculturalScience. I have worked in mixed animalpractice as well as interned at a wildliferehabilitation center. My interests are inpublic health and food animal medicine.randall BrydenMacey CamplairI grew up in Frederick, Md., and I receivedmy bachelor’s degree in Pre-VeterinaryMedicine and Animal Science with minors inChemistry and Biology from the Universityof Findlay in Ohio. I worked in a small animalclinic in high school and I am interested inequine or large animal medicine.Stephany ChangI grew up in Los Angeles, Calif., and receivedmy bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciencesfrom University of California, San Diego,majoring in Human Biology. During that time,I volunteered in multiple facilities, includingsmall to exotic animal practices, and worked ata low-cost small animal hospital, whichinfluenced me toward small animal medicine.I’m from Taiwan and grew up moving aroundTexas and California. I graduated fromUniversity of California, Berkeley, with adegree in Integrative Biology. I’ve worked inmostly small animal hospitals andvolunteered with various field clinics.I would like to pursue either shelter orwildlife medicine.Carolyn ChenI grew up in Pacifica, a small coastal townsouth of San Francisco, Calif. In 2010,I received a BS in Evolution, Ecology andConservation at Sonoma State University.I have worked in the veterinary field for 10years including day practice, emergency, andhave volunteered at Safari West WildlifePreserve in Santa Rosa, Calif.Amanda DossettLisa fiegI grew up in Pennsylvania where I received mybachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences(Biology & Psychology) from University ofPittsburgh at Johnstown. I interned at small andlarge animal clinics while volunteering at mylocal shelter. I also worked at an emergencysmall animal hospital. I look forward topursuing my interest in emergency medicine.Laura fletcherI grew up in Southern Maryland and receivedmy bachelor’s degree in Biology from SalisburyUniversity. I have worked in small animalpractices for the past 10 years and havevolunteered locally and globally in differentfields of veterinary medicine. My interest is insmall animal and exotic medicine.20

C l a s s o f 2 0 1 6 | C o l l e g e o f V e t e r i n a r y M e d i c i n eAlejandro GamezI grew up in Bellflower, Calif., and received mybachelor’s degree in Animal Science with aPre-Vet option from California State PolytechnicUniversity, Pomona. As an undergraduate, Ivolunteered at an animal shelter, equinehospital, and at a general practice. I aminterested in small animal medicine.Jessica GilliattI grew up in Indianapolis and graduated fromIndiana State University in 2009 with aBachelor of Arts degree in Biology. I workedfor a small animal practice for four years as anundergraduate. I have a strong interest in thehuman-animal bond, which is rooted in myvolunteer work at a therapeutic riding center.I grew up in Walnut, Calif., but have lived in Ohio thepast 12 years. I graduated from Andrews Universitywith a bachelor’s in Animal Science, and since haveworked in a small animal and an alternative clinic thatperforms acupuncture and physical therapy. I’mlooking forward to exploring my options, but have astrong interest in physical therapy.Ashley GoddardI grew up in Pasadena, Calif.,and received my bachelor’sdegree in Biology from BrighamYoung University – Idaho. I aminterested in orthopedics and amixed practice of primarilycompanionship animals.Daniel GrantLeo HolguinI was born and raised in Orange County, Calif.I got my bachelor’s in Animal Health Scienceat California State Polytechnic University,Pomona, where I was valedictorian of theAgriculture College Class of 2010. I am alicensed RVT and work at an emergency petclinic. I am interested in research medicineand public health.Stephanie JolitzI live in Fontana, Calif., and received mybachelor’s degree in Animal Science fromCalifornia State Polytechnic University, Pomona.My interest and experience is with wild birds.I work locally with pelagic and coastal varieties.I want to keep pursuing avian medicine andhave an interest in zoo and conservation work.I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. I moved toFindlay, Ohio, for my undergraduate education, doublemajoring in Biology and Animal Science and minoringin Chemistry at The University of Findlay. I worked at asmall animal clinic for five years and am interested insmall animal medicine and emergency/critical care.Katelyn KelleyI grew up in Cleveland, Ohio.I received my bachelor’s degree inAnimal Science from the University ofNew Hampshire with a minor in DairyManagement. I have worked in a smallanimal practice and a dairy researchfacility. I am interested in both fields.emily KentAlexandra LaPorteI grew up in San Diego, Calif., and receivedmy bachelor’s degree in Ecology andEvolution with a minor in Animal Sciencesfrom Purdue University. I have volunteeredlocally and abroad and spent the year priorto coming to WesternU employed at theSalk Institute. I am interested in mixedpractice or laboratory animal medicine.Hatley McMickingI received a BS in Animal Sciences fromUniversity of California, Davis, in 2010. I enjoyworking with all animal species and haveexperience in clinical, laboratory, andinternational medicine. In exploring veterinaryresearch and co-publishing a paper on biopsytechniques, I have honed my future interests inpreventative medicine and public health.21

C l a s s o f 2 0 1 6 | C o l l e g e o f V e t e r i n a r y M e d i c i n eKristina ridgeI’m from California and received my bachelor’sin Biology from California State University, SanBernardino. I worked for a small animal practiceand an exotic animal sanctuary. I am interestedin large feline medicine. I hope to open a lionrescue with my husband and participate inChristian veterinary missions.Arnold revueltarodriguezI grew up in Northern California andreceived my bachelor’s degree in Biologywith a concentration in vertebratebiology at Gonzaga University in 2009.I spent the next three years accruingexperience working for a small animaland 24-hour emergency practice. I aminterested in small animal medicine.I grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, and receivedmy bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciencesfrom the University of Cincinnati. During myundergraduate years, I worked at a smallanimal clinic and was also a member of UC’sequestrian team. I am interested incompanion animal or exotic medicine.Jennifer roedigI emigrated from South Korea in 1998 andattended California State PolytechnicUniversity, Pomona. I received my BS inAnimal Science with a Pre-Vet option. Themajority of my animal experiences comefrom small animals and I am interested inpursuing small animal medicine here.Issac SeoKelly ShearerI completed a bachelor’s degree inAnimal Science and a master’s degreein Biological Sciences from AuburnUniversity. I worked for a small animalpractice while in school as well asworking for AUCVM, in the departmentof Pathobiology. I am interested inmixed animal medicine.Dania ShoukairI graduated from University of California, SantaBarbara, and received my bachelor’s degree inBiological Sciences as a student athlete. I haveexperience in equine sports medicine as well asextensive experience with equine reproduction. Mostrecently, I worked at a small animal emergency, criticalcare, and specialty hospital. I am interested inspecializing in some field of small animal medicine.I grew up in the San Fernando Valley nearLos Angeles and earned my BA inReligious Studies with an emphasis inSouth Asian religions from the Universityof California, Santa Barbara. I have aninterest in small and mixed companionanimal medicine as well as caninereproduction.Shirley TruongI was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan. Myfamily and I moved to California when I was14 years-old. I went to University of California,San Diego, for my undergraduate work. Myinterest is in lab animal medicine, but I’d liketo explore the public health field as well.Jui TuBrooke WestI grew up in Southern California and earnedmy bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience fromUniversity of Southern California. I’vevolunteered at a wildlife rehabilitation centerand a mixed animal practice affiliated withseveral zoos, and an exotic feline breedingcompound. I’m interested in mixed animal,zoo, and wildlife medicine.Tracy youngOriginally from Colorado, I received mybachelor’s in Equine Sciences from ColoradoState University and a master’s in LaboratoryAnimal Sciences from Drexel University inPennsylvania. For six years I worked withlarge animals, two years with small animalsand four years with laboratory animals. I aminterested in equine surgery.22

The college is pleased to announcethe establishment of the Worell AvianMedicine Endowed Scholarship due to agenerous gift from Dr. Amy Worell.CVMCalendarAPRIL 22Honors DayMAY 15Fourth-Year Dinner DanceMAY 16CVM CommencementJUNE 20-23Pacific Veterinary Conference,Long BeachOur students are onjourneys of discovery.Stevie Reichmuth, DVM ’12, left, and Dr. Amy WorellFunding for scholarships enables the college to attract adiverse group of highly qualified students. Given the highcost of education, student financial support is critical inallowing students from all backgrounds the chance topursue their dreams of becoming veterinarians.Endowing a scholarship creates a permanent fund withthe principal invested and never touched while a portionof the interest is used each year to provide scholarshipsupport.WesternU allows scholarships to become fully endowedat the $20,000 level, which will generally produce $1,000in annual scholarship funds. Additional gifts to theendowed fund over the years will increase the principalbalance and produce larger annual awards in the future.Endowed Scholarships are a way to make a real andlasting impact on generations of future CVM students,and may be named in honor or memory of friends, petsand loved ones ensuring their legacy is remembered.If you’d like to find out more about making a gift to endow ascholarship, or to provide scholarship support in other ways,please contact Director of Development Tim McPheron at909-706-3762 tmcpheron@westernu.eduChristina Portus, DVM ’10Your gift will help pave their road.WesternU College of Veterinary Medicine309 E. Second Street • Pomona, CA 91766-1854Contact Tim McPheron at (909) 706-3762tmcpheron@westernu.eduCORRECTION:The Fall 2011, Volume 12, Issue 3 edition back inside coverhas a photo and caption of “Nicole Alcain, DVM ’10. Hername should have been listed as “Nicol Alcain, DVM ’10.”23

Non-Profit Org.U.S. PostagePAIDPermit No. 465San Dimas, CA 91773College of Veterinary Medicine309 E. Second St.Pomona, Calif. 91766-1854ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTEDMISSION STATEMENT:THE COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE is committed to serving societyand animals through the preparation of students for the practice of veterinarymedicine, veterinary public health and/or veterinary research in an educational programof self-directed learning, reverence for life and clinical education through strategic partnerships.Instruction and clinical opportunities are provided in a wide variety of domestic species, including food animal,equine, and companion animals. The college sustains a vibrant diverse faculty by encouraging advancement throughpersonal and professional development and research. This creates an environment of competent, caring, ethical professionals,where cooperative learning, public service and scholarship can flourish.23648-4/13-P