MSU researcher finds link to H5N1 bird flu

By Keri Collins Lewis
MSU Ag Communications

MISSISSIPPI STATE – A Mississippi State University researcher has uncovered the first molecular evidence linking live poultry markets in China to human H5N1 avian influenza.

Henry Wan, an assistant professor in systems biology at MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, collaborated with scientists in the World Health Organization Collaborative Centers for Influenza in China and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to investigate the connection.
“Although conceptually we knew... more

2012 CVM Alumnus of the Year Locke Karriker

Dr. Locke Karriker spoke to faculty and students at the CVM auditorium, Friday, February 10 as our 2012 Alumnus of the Year.  He is originally from North Carolina and earned DVM (1999) and Masters in Veterinary Medical Sciences (2000) degrees from MSU-CVM.  He is a diplomate of The American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and has been on the faculty of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University since 2003.  He currently serves as the Director of the Swine Medicine Education Center at Iowa State.  Dr. Karriker has supervised over $3 million of extramural funded research related to improving health and well-being of swine. More photos...

The College of Veterinary Medicine Alumnus of the Year Program recognizes alumni who have made a significant contribution to human or institutional progress in which a situation, institution, or movement has been materially changed for the better because of their participation. This award recognized the achievements of outstanding alumni whose personal lives, professional accomplishments and community service best exemplify the mission of the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Previous Alumni of the Year

Employee of the Month

Congratulations to Ms. Leslie Reed, CVM’s  Employee of the Month!

Leslie, a Certified Veterinary Technician and Supervisor of the ICU,  has worked at The College of Veterinary Medicine for six years. With her background working in an animal clinic, Leslie is able to share some of the "tricks of the trade" with students, which she enjoys.  "Every day is different here," Leslie says of her work.  "You never know what you are going to see, and that makes things exciting."  Outside of the CVM, Leslie enjoys spending time with friends and family, including her two children, Dixon (5) and Lily (2).

Military Dog Recovering at MSU

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) - Lex is a wounded military veteran. He's the first military dog to be granted early retirement for adoption. The German Shepherd starts every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in an indoor, underwater doggie treadmill.  "It releases pressure on a lot of their joints. It allows him to get the exercise without having to bare the full weight of his body," says MSU Veterinarian Dr. John Thomason.

The doctors at Mississippi State's College at Veterinary Medicine say each patient is special but not all of them are a commemorative Purple Heart recipient.

"He's very easy going and he does have a unique story that's allowed him actually to come here for us to meet him," explains MSU Veterinarian Dr. Christine Bryan. more

Veterinary camp gives inside look at career

MISSISSIPPI STATE – Youth with an interest in animals and veterinary medicine are invited to attend a camp offered by Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
MSU Veterinary Camp will provide a hands-on experience to youth ages 13 to 15. Campers will participate in interactive labs and learn about veterinary medicine from CVM instructors. Students considering a career in veterinary medicine, scientific research or an animal-related field are encouraged to apply. more



 Vet Camp Information

Parasitology research impacts multiple species

By Linda Breazeale
MSU Ag Communications

MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Research, teaching and diagnostic efforts focused on parasites, such as worms, fleas and ticks, are important for all of the clients served by Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Andrea Varela-Stokes is an assistant professor in basic sciences, teaching veterinary parasitology and helminthology and researching tick-borne diseases. She said there are many applications for parasitology in research and service.  more

Small Animal Dentistry Conference

March 10th and 11th, the College of Veterinary Medicine will host a Small Animal Dentistry Conference for continuing education credits.  With both lectures and labs, this conference is a must for DVMs and Veterinary Technicians who want to learn more about building a successful dental program.  Topics covered include dental radiology, pain management, instrumentation and equipment, and helping clients to understand the importance of dental health for animals.  Speakers include Sue Berryhill, BS, RVT of Pfizer's Veterinary Specialty Team and Paul Mitchell, DVM, of Pfizer Animal Health.  Don't miss out -- space is limited and registration is underway! 

Click here for a downloadable brochure. 
Register online at www.cvm.msstate.edu/dentistry/