COLLEGE STATION, TX - Devastating disease outbreaks among livestock in the United States are relatively rare and can generally be rapidly contained, when they do occur. However, in the countries of East Africa, livestock disease outbreaks are common. Like our fifty states, the countries of East Africa are separate entities that nevertheless have a lot of interstate movement-of both people and animals. They currently lack a unifying system of animal disease prevention and control.  Furthermore, when diseases do occur in East Africa, the results can be devastating to livestock producers. Cooperative, safe, and stable livestock trade would lead to improved incomes, economic stability, and therefore a better quality of life for many in the region.

Therefore, veterinary leaders from many of these countries-with help from the United States Department of Agriculture and the USAID (United States Agency for International Development), are working to create a Standard Methods and Procedures in Animal Health (SMP-AH) that may then be implemented in East African nations.

As part of this effort, Chief Veterinary Officers (CVO), epidemiologists, and other leaders from six countries in East Africa (Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Djibouti, and Uganda), who collectively share oversight for more than 300 million animals, recently spent two weeks in the United States, with a week in Oregon and Washington state and a week in Texas-during which the group visited the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM).

"The CVM is taking a lead role in the One Health Plus Initiative, the recognition that animal, human, and ecosystem health are all inextricably linked," said Dr. Eleanor Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "It is through collaborative projects such as this that we are able to build a global partnership that improves the quality of life for people and animals in other parts of the world."

The visit, hosted by both the Norman Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture at the Texas A&M College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and the CVM, included a welcome from Dean Green, a tour of the facilities-including the large and small animal hospitals and the necropsy facility-and lectures by several CVM and AgriLife faculty members. The group then spent the afternoon visiting the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and the National Center for Foreign Animal and Zoonotic Disease Defense (FAZD Center) before boarding a bus to Austin.

"We're showing them how the US manages disease control in livestock in a wide variety of ecosystems," said Jeff Austin of USAID-East Africa, on large ranches and small ones. Members of the CVM faculty helped with hosting the delegation from Africa. Guy Shepherd, Director of Development; Dan Posey, Director of Special Programs and Clinical Associate Professor; and Clay Ashley, Director of Veterinary Medical Park, led the tours of the CVM complex and answered questions about the practice of veterinary medicine in the United States. Dr. Kenita Rogers, Associate Dean for Professional Programs provided an overview of the CVM veterinary curriculum; Dr. Michael Chaddock, Assistant Dean for One Health and Strategic Initiatives, lectured about the One Health Initiative; Dr. Jason Cleere, Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science in the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and Extension Beef Cattle Specialist, spoke about the Texas beef industry and the effects of drought; and Dr. Thomas Craig, Professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology (VTPB) at the CVM, discussed parasite management in small ruminants.

The delegation outside the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences

"There are so many resources at Texas A&M we can take advantage of," said James Wabacha, SMP-AH Manager, African Union - Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources. "I really enjoyed going through the clinics-they're such great facilities. I have taken photos to share with other faculty members in my country."

Creating standard methods has to be a bottom-up approach, several people noted, that the producers themselves understand and support, rather than regulations imposed from the top-down by the United States-or any other country. Furthermore, simply taking our procedures and using them in Africa wouldn't work, because their needs-and the diseases-are different, said Andrew Clark of USAID-East Africa.

"You have Africanize [the control methods] to match the diseases," Clark said.

Several of the visiting veterinarians mentioned the need for partnerships between their countries and the United States.

"I expect some relationships to develop," said Nicholas Kauta, CVO of Uganda. He, and several other CVOs, mentioned that one of the most useful parts of the trip for them was the opportunity to meet veterinarians and researchers who might later be a source of help and advice.

Peter Ithondeka, CVO of Kenya, noted that Texas is a perfect place to study procedures because it has similar weather as much of East Africa.

"We can take the good things here," said Bewket Siraw, CVO of Ethiopia, "and bring change in our own environments." Even when they can't apply them directly, the methods used in the United States can then be adapted, he said.

"We have found many things we want to take back to our own countries," said Kauta.

"One of the goals of this trip is to provide the East African CVOs with knowledge and experiences that they can adapt to benefit their entire region," said Dr. Linda Logan, Professor and Head of VTPB at the CVM and one of the organizers of the visit. "Livestock production is a key to food security in East Africa. Developing a system to promote safe livestock trade was the objective of the program. Although many had been to the United States before, this was the first time many of the CVOs had seen livestock production methods first hand."

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Angela G. Clendenin
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COLLEGE STATION, TX - Dr. William Murphy, Associate Professor in the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences (VIBS) at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), was chosen as the recipient of the 2013 AVMF Winn Excellence in Feline Foundation Research Award.

Established in 2009 by the Winn Feline Foundation and American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), this award honors contributions to advancing feline health and welfare through research.

"Dr. Murphy's research has contributed significantly to the body of knowledge in feline genomics," said Dr. Eleanor Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "We are proud of his accomplishments and look forward to his continuing a stellar career here at Texas A&M."

Dr. Murphy's 2001 papers on mammalian evolution, published in Nature and Science, have been cited more than 1365 times, according to the Science Citation Index.  Since then, he has been working on maps of the feline genome to localize the genes for cat coat color and to find the places where mutations cause diseases such as muscular atrophy and infertility. Furthermore, Dr. Murphy has led the analysis of feline sex chromosomes and has identified cat-specific genes that regulate male fertility.

Dr. Murphy has also applied genetic tools from the domestic cat to the study of the evolutionary relationships and population genetics of the wild cats, including snow leopards and the other big cats.

Many mapping studies that have led to identification of genes and development of genetic tests have been based on the structure of the feline genome discovered in Murphy's lab.

"I am honored that the AVMF and Winn Feline Foundation have selected me for this award," said Murphy. "I share credit with my fantastic students and staff who have shared my passion for applying genetic tools to study the interesting biology of cats and their charismatic wild relatives.  I am further thankful for the support of my mentors and colleagues, my department and the CVM, and the funding agencies like Winn that have helped to make my job rewarding."

"Dr. Murphy is an exceptional scientist whose career reflects truly outstanding achievement," said Dr. Evelyn Tiffany-Castiglioni, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, Professor and VIBS Department Head, who nominated Dr. Murphy for this award.  "He is highly deserving of recognition by the AVMF for his profound contributions feline genetics.  He is also a kind and generous colleague and a fine teacher and mentor for students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty members.  I am very proud of him and the honor he brings to our college."

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For more information about the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, please visit our website at vetmed.tamu.edu or join us on Facebook.

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Angela G. Clendenin
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COLLEGE STATION, TX - The faculty and staff of the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CVM) honored Dr. Ian Tizard, professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology and Director of the Schubot Exotic Bird Health Center, at a reception Tuesday, April 23, 2013.

Tizard was recently named a University Distinguished Professor by a six-person awards committee of previously-named Distinguished Professors. This title is the highest faculty honor bestowed by Texas A&M University and means the professor has made at least one seminal contribution to, is pre-eminent in, and has made a major impact on his discipline.

"Dr. Tizard's contributions to his discipline, to teaching, and to our college are immeasurable," said Dr. Eleanor Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "The impact he continues to make through research and student engagement helps create veterinary leaders that will be well prepared to make a difference wherever they serve."

Tizard's studies on the health and welfare of both wild and captive birds and his books-which have been translated into at least seven languages-and articles on that research clearly qualify him as one of the leaders in the field and well-deserving of the honor, said several speakers at the reception.

"Dr. Tizard's contributions are recognized around the world," said Dr. Linda Logan, department head for Veterinary Pathobiology. Logan noted that Tizard had influenced a number of new faculty members during his career, including serving as one of her first contacts when she arrived at the CVM in 2003.

"Dr. Tizard is the embodiment of a distinguished professor," said Dr. Stephen Safe, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology. "His work in immunology and parasitology is world-renowned."

Other speakers included Dr. Fuller Bazer, Dr. Donald Brightsmith, and Dr. James Womack. Drs. Womack and Bazer are also Distinguished Professors.

Tizard acknowledged it took the work of many to get to this point and thanked his colleagues for their support over the years. He also recognized those who took their time to coordinate the nomination process for the award.

Other than three faculty members already mentioned, only one other professor in the CVM, Dr. Tim Phillips, holds this designation.

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Angela G. Clendenin
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"A hairball is an accumulation of hair in the GI tract," said James Barr, associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM)." It simply accumulates together and is usually contained within the stomach."

A hairball is formed when cats accidently ingest loose hair while cleaning their fur. The fur that is not digested accumulates in the stomach, forming a hairball.

While clinical signs of hairballs may vary, common symptoms include decreased appetite, constipation, and vomiting.

"In the worst case scenario, the hair passes through the stomach and lodges in the small intestine," said Barr. "The result is an obstruction in the GI tract which can be life threatening."

If you believe your cat is feeling sick due to a hairball it is important to see your veterinarian right away. They may prescribe medication or give treatments that can help cats deal with the discomfort associated with hairballs.

"Numerous cats, especially those with long hair, will occasionally vomit up hairballs and not show any clinical signs, which may be completely normal for your cat," said Barr. " If there seems to be an abnormal amount of hairballs produced, then steps should be taken to prevent the pet from ingesting  large amounts of hair or to help the hair move through the GI tract before it accumulates together."

Pet owners can also help reduce the severity of their cat's hairballs by frequently brushing the cat and discouraging it from excessively grooming itself.

"There are over-the-counter medications that are designed for cats with hairballs to aid in digestion," said Barr. "As always, if there are concerns for your cat's health, please call your veterinarian for guidance."

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION, TX - Felipe Avila, a Ph.D. candidate in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), won the prestigious 2013 U.S. Senator Phil Gramm Doctoral Fellowship. This award, which includes a $5000 scholarship, is given to recognize students' exemplary contributions in research, teaching, and mentoring in their doctoral programs.

"Felipe is a tremendous role model for not only our undergraduate students, but also our graduate students. Through his mentorship and teaching, he has touched many lives, and has demonstrated the success that comes with hard work and dedication. We are very proud of Felipe and extend him our sincere congratulations," said Dr. Eleanor Green, the Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine.

Originally, Avila came to study horses, but when the opportunity arose to focus on alpacas, he took it. Alpacas, a type of camelid originally from South America, are prized in the United States primarily for their fiber. Working in the Laboratory of Animal Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics, under the supervision of Dr. Terje Raudsepp, Avila's research focuses on chromosome structure and evolution in camelids, particularly the alpaca, as well as chromosomal abnormalities that affect the health of different camelid species. His Ph.D. research project involves generating a whole genome map for the alpaca. With this study, Avila aims to integrate genome sequence data with physical chromosome information to obtain the location of various genetic markers, such as those for disease resistance, congenital disorders, reproduction, fiber color, and texture. His goal is to lay the foundation for research on genetic contributions to traits of economic and biological importance in different camelid species.

"I couldn't have chosen a better project," Avila said.

He enjoys teaching too. As a teaching assistant for the undergraduate-level Biomedical Genetics course in the Biomedical Sciences (BIMS) program for two years, he worked for three different professors.

"I was really disappointed," he said, "when my advisor suggested I stop teaching and focus on my research." Now, he focuses on mentoring the undergraduate students working in Dr. Raudsepp's lab.

"I like to mentor," Avila said. "It's important to pass on our knowledge."

Only ten students throughout the university were awarded the U.S. Senator Phil Gramm Doctoral Fellowship this year. Dr. Bhanu P. Chowdhary, Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies at the CVM, also sent his congratulations. Chowdhary, who is on Avila's graduate committee, was the one who first encouraged him to apply for the fellowship.

"Felipe has truly distinguished himself in both the classroom and the laboratory," Chowdhary said. "He is deserving of this honor, and we couldn't be more proud that he has been recognized for his efforts."

Avila's advisor, Dr. Raudsepp, nominated him, and the professors for whom he served as a teaching assistant wrote letters of support.

"Felipe is an exceptional graduate student and we are very fortunate to have him," Raudsepp said. "As a scientific advisor, I certainly value his achievements in research, though it is even more important that Felipe is a wonderful person-intelligent, knowledgeable, invariably friendly, patient and helpful, always a gentleman. Our undergraduate students adore him as a mentor and we all love him as a good colleague. I have no doubt that Felipe will become an outstanding researcher, scholar and teacher in his future career."

Avila obtained his Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Brasilia (Brazil) in 2005, and joined the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences (VIBS) at the CVM in 2009.

Avila, along with the other nine honorees, was recognized at an awards ceremony on April 4th, where Dr. Karen Butler-Purry, the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies, presented him with a framed certificate. Avila and the other nine recipients were also special guests that evening at the 2013 Community of Scholars dinner program, which was also attended by Dr. Raudsepp and Dr. Chowdhary.

"We are especially grateful to Dr. Phil Gramm, former U.S. Senator and former professor of Economics at Texas A&M," said Butler-Purry, "for his support that made this outstanding program possible."

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For more information about the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, please visit our website at vetmed.tamu.edu or join us on Facebook.

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COLLEGE STATION-Spring graduation ceremonies at Texas A&M University kick off Thursday (May 9) when the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM) awards 129 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees.

The awarding of degrees at the 2:00 p.m. ceremonies in Rudder Auditorium will follow an address by R. H. (Steve) Stevens, Jr., chairman of the board of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and a member of the American Quarter Horse (AQHA) Hall of Fame.

Stevens is a 1962 Texas A&M graduate who earlier this year was named a Distinguished Alumnus, the highest honor bestowed upon a former student of the university. He served from 1999 to 2005 as a member of The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.

He joined the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in 1975, was elected to its board of directors in 1992 and has been a member of its executive committee since 2005. In 2003, he served as president of the AQHA, the world's largest equine breed registry with more than 340,000 members located in all 50 states and numerous foreign countries.

Stevens, who earned his Texas A&M degree in accounting, was a member of the Corps of Cadets and served as executive officer of the corps' elite Ross Volunteers unit. After post-graduate work at the University of Texas and service as an officer in the Air Force, he worked at Arthur Andersen LLP for 33 years before retiring in 1999. He started his own accounting firm, Stevens & Matthews LLP, in 2002.

Texas A&M's commencement ceremonies continue Thursday with a 5:30 p.m. convocation, also in Rudder Auditorium. The university's graduation exercises for approximately 7,100 degree candidates at the undergraduate and graduate levels will be held during six ceremonies the following two days (May 10-11) at Reed Arena.

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"It is very exciting to celebrate 20 years of caring for companion animals when their owners are no longer able to provide for them," said Dr. Eleanor Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "Today, not only do we reflect on the two decades of compassionate care provided within these walls, we officially open the newly completed expansion to the facility that will enhance the comfort and care provided for residents now and in the future."

The Stevenson Center provides for the physical, emotional, and medical needs of companion animals whose owners cannot do so, either because they are entering a retirement home, being hospitalized for an extended period, or predeceasing a pet.

"People should know we are an option for them, if they don't have anyone to care for their pets," said Ellie Greenbaum, Associate Director of the Center.

The new addition, on which construction began nearly a year ago in July 2012, is 3,300 square feet and includes two rooms each for dogs, cats, and birds.  Special features in the aviaries, which are needed for the twelve birds currently enrolled to live at the center someday, include soundproofing panels and solar tubes to allow natural light and to reduce reliance on electricity. Both the cat and bird rooms have enclosed sun porches and the dog rooms have separate fenced-in yards.

The Center's expansion was made possible by the generosity of 68 donors who made contributions totaling approximately $900,000.

"We are extremely grateful to our many donors and friends that have so generously supported the Stevenson Companion Animal Life-Care Center over the past 20 years," said Henry L. "Sonny" Presnal, DVM, Director of the Stevenson Center. "Through the generosity of many, the Center's facility should be positioned to accommodate the resident pets that will enter the Center in the foreseeable future."

This is the second expansion of the Stevenson Center, which opened in 1993. The total space of the Center, including the new addition, is about 11,000 square feet and will be able to house about 100 pets. It is completely self-sustaining with donations and income from the endowment.

A stable behind the main building houses the center's resident llama, with space for other large companion animals should the need arise.

Four veterinary students-currently a first-year, two second-year and a third-year-live at the center to provide around-the-clock care to the resident animals. The placement of cameras and video monitors around the center allows the staff to keep a constant watch on their charges. Living day-to-day with the pets-many of whom are older and thus have the health problems of older animals-makes the students very compassionate, Greenbaum said.

"We feel very privileged," Greenbaum said, "that so many owners have entrusted us with the care of their pets."

Enrollees at the center include dogs, cats, birds, horses, and donkeys. To secure a spot for their pet, owners need to establish an endowment, the requirements for which vary depending upon the age of the owner at the time of the enrollment, that can be paid up front or through a bequest or life insurance benefit.

Center staff will pick up enrolled animals anywhere in Texas when necessary. The first stop for the pets-before they even enter the Center-is the CVM Small Animal Hospital, where they are thoroughly examined before joining the other animals. The hospital and its veterinarians also provide care whenever a Center resident is sick or injured, ensuring the animals get the best care available.

The Center is situated on three acres beside the CVM campus. Its name honors the late Madlin Stevenson, a major initial supporter of the project. The building itself is the W.P. Luse Foundation Building, named in honor of the Luse Foundation's support.

"We're excited about this expansion and the added comfort it will bring to our residents," Greenbaum said. "We've been working very hard."

"We have strived to provide a home for pets when their owners can no longer care for them in as near a home-like environment as possible," said Presnal, "and we feel that we have been successful in accomplishing our goal."

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For more information about the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, please visit our website at vetmed.tamu.edu or join us on Facebook.

Contact Information

Angela G. Clendenin
Director, Communications & Public Relations
Ofc - (979) 862-2675
Cell - (979) 739-5718

"Pets can be fearful of all types of things," says Dr. Mark Stickney, Clinical Associate Professor at the Texas A&M College
of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM). "Thunderstorms, fireworks, cars, and even children can all
potentially be sources of fear for a pet."

Pets become scared because they, like all animals, have evolved to recognize threats. Animal's fear physiology is similar
to that of humans with the heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature rising when frightened.

Dogs, bred as pack animals, need to be with their owners when afraid. Cats, being more solitary, hide when scared and
may be less destructive.

The critical socialization period‐ 8 to 12 weeks of age‐ is an important factor in shaping the behavior of both puppies and
kittens. During this time, the pet should have its first vaccinations and then exposed to all sources of stimuli including
people, things, and sounds.

"If you plan to have the animal accompany you while horseback riding, take it to a place where it can see and smell
horses. If you plan to take the animal along during hunting, take it to the field where it can see and hear gunshots," said
Stickney.

Crate training is also imperative from the first day the pet comes home. This gives the pet a place to feel safe when you
leave the house.

"The crate should always be a safe and happy place. The pet should never be put in these crates to be punished or for
any negative experience," said Stickney.

One way to overcome fear is to expose the pet to the source of its fear and reward them for when they are brave.

"Some dogs experience anxiety and become distressed when they hear keys being picked up. One way to desensitize
them is to frequently pick up keys and then sit back at home or leave the house for a minute and then come back. The
pet will slowly recognize to ignore these cues," said Stickney.

A current market trend is tight‐fitting pet jackets to aid in behavior. While these may help, they are shown to mostly aid
in modifying mild behavior problems.

"The idea is that animals feel safe and secure when they are compressed, just like babies when they are swaddled," said
Stickney.
To aid in more severe fears, specialized veterinary behaviorists prescribe a combination of behavioral medication and
pharmacological treatments.

"Pharmacologic therapy only serves to help the behavior modification, there is no such thing as a single solution to fix
the problem," said Stickney.

"The sooner you address these issues, the better it is because these fears do not go away on their own," said Stickney.
"Nothing is easy about rearing a puppy. It's a big responsibility, but there are incredible benefits if you put in the time
and effort early on."

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

Photo: Miranda Bertram (middle right) and the whooping crane scat collection crew poses atop the observation tower at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, where a majority of whooping cranes overwinter.  With Miranda are undergraduate researchers Tyler Smith (left) and Matthew Olcha (middle left) and Entomology PhD student Andrew Golnar (right).

In settings all over the world, Dr. Wright engaged in a myriad of activities to ensure the health and safety of the people who protect our country.  In addition to inspecting food and food handling facilities, Dr. Wright was involved in preventing zoonotic diseases, investigating foodborne illness outbreaks, managing occupational health programs, and teaching public health to veterinarians and airmen.  During this time of service to our country, Dr. Wright earned a Masters Degree in Preventive Veterinary Medicine from the University of California at Davis in 1977, and obtained Diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology Specialty, in 1978.

After 22 years of involvement in preventive medicine in the U.S. Air Force, Dr. Wright retired as a colonel.  The next day, he embarked upon a new avenue of service to society by joining the Texas Department of Health.  Initially, Dr. Wright worked in the Meat Safety Assurance Program. Despite the great potential for conflict between inspectors and plant owners, Dr. Wright's reasonable and respectful nature, along with his considerable patience, allowed him to work successfully in meat packing plants to improve the safety of the food products being produced and the health of those who consume them.

In addition to his work in meat safety, Dr. Wright also worked in the department's Zoonosis Control Program, where he spent countless hours consulting about rabies and the need for post-exposure prophylaxis for patients who had been bitten by an animal.   Dr. Wright was also involved in working with wildlife disease reservoirs and with the oral rabies vaccine drops to immunize coyotes and foxes against this disease.  On a daily basis he worked closely with physicians, veterinary practitioners, animal control officers, and local health officials around the state.

In addition to Dr. Wright's military decorations, he has received awards from the Texas Veterinary Medical Association, the Texas Department of Health, the Texas Animal Control Association, and the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine.

He has been active in the Texas Veterinary Medical Association, serving on numerous task forces and committees, including chairing the Public Health Committee for the past 15 years.

Dr. Wright and his wife, Sherry enjoy spending time with family, especially their two grandchildren.

Cooperation and fellowship with colleagues has always been important to Dr. Martindale, so service to the veterinary profession through organized veterinary medicine has been a natural activity for him.  Dr. Martindale is a founding member of the Grayson County Veterinary Medical Association.  Dr. Martindale has also actively served his profession on a state wide level for many years, holding every executive office in the leadership of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association, highlighted by a year as TVMA President in 2004.  Dr. Martindale is also very proud to be a Lifetime Member of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association.

Not being content to end his service to the veterinary profession at the state level, Dr. Martindale served as the alternate delegate from Texas to the American Veterinary Medical Association from 2006-2009 and as delegate to the AVMA from Texas from 2009-2012.  Dr. Martindale was recently elected in 2012 to serve on the AVMA Council on Education, which serves as the accrediting body for veterinary colleges in the United States and around the world, and he continues to serve in this role today.

Dr. Martindale is also active in his community, serving as an elder and Bible teacher at Park Avenue Church of Christ, as a member of the Denison Rotary Club, and as a member of the Denison Chamber of Commerce. He was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Denison Rotary in 2006.

After over 40 years of veterinary practice, Dr. Martindale has sold his interest in his veterinary practice to Dr. Chad Cruce and is enjoying some time in semi-retirement.  He continues to live in Denison where he and his wife, Linda, enjoy time with their seven children and eighteen grandchildren, his hobbies of cooking, golfing and travel, along with participating in ministry activities at their church.

In 1979, Dr. Lawhorn became a Staff Veterinarian for Dekalb Swine Breeders in Dekalb, Illinois, setting the stage for a remarkable career as the established resource in Texas for swine health and management issues.  Moving back to Texas in 1982, Dr. Lawhorn accepted the position of Extension Swine Veterinarian with the Texas Agricultural Extension Service at Texas A&M, then added the title of Assistant Professor at the Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery as he accepted concurrent positions in service to the swine industry and veterinary practitioners in the state.

Dr. Lawhorn received a Masters of Science degree in Veterinary Microbiology from Texas A&M in 1989, and was promoted to Associate Professor in 1993 and full Professor in 2001.  From 2002 until 2003, Dr. Lawhorn also served as the Chief of the Food Animal Section in the Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

Dr. Lawhorn's video "New Virus Vaccines Through Genetic Engineering" was selected for use by the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C. for the 1996 "Health in America" exhibition, the theme of which was to highlight veterinary medical contributions to improvements in human health.  Dr. Lawhorn has authored and co-authored many publications and has also made innumerable presentations to producer and veterinary groups throughout Texas.  He was awarded the TVMA Faculty Achievement Award in Recognition of Outstanding Accomplishments in Research in 1997 and the TVMA Veterinary Medical Specialty Award for Outstanding Contributions to Veterinary Medicine in 2001.

Dr. Lawhorn retired from the State Swine Extension Veterinary position in 2003, but retained his teaching appointment in the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences until 2010.  He continues his interest in swine practice through consultations with practitioners via the Veterinary Information Network.  He also continues to work as a relief veterinarian for various practices in Texas.

Due to Dr. Lawhorn's continued passion for education in swine health, he established the Dr. Donald B. Lawhorn Endowed Faculty Fellowship in Swine Medicine, to help his protégé, Dr. Brandon Dominguez, continue to build upon what Dr. Lawhorn began.

Education and support for youth is near to Dr. Kyle's heart, and his efforts in that area are remarkable. Dr. Kyle has served on the Carthage ISD Board of Trustees for 36 years and helped found the Carthage ISD Education Foundation. He was named to the Carthage ISD Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame, honored as an Honorary Chapter Farmer for both the Carthage and Gary FFA Chapters and as a Friend of 4-H for both Panola and Shelby Counties, and is a life member in the Carthage Chapter of the Technology Students Association. Dr. and Mrs. Kyle are also faithful members of the First United Methodist Church of Carthage where they sing in the choir, serve as Stephen Ministers, and teach classes at Mission Carthage.

After years of practicing out of a small building beside his home, Dr. Kyle built a small animal hospital in 1968 and added equine and bovine facilities in subsequent years. Dr. Kyle also worked in the Brucellosis Eradication Program in Panola and Shelby Counties and performed brucellosis testing and pregnancy examinations for the local livestock sale barn. As a veteran of the Texas Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis epidemic in the mid-sixties, Dr. Kyle vaccinated horses and mules all over Panola and Shelby Counties from daylight to dark for weeks on end. He also founded the local Humane Society.

Dr. T.G. Carroll's practice in Center was purchased in 1986, and with the help of three associates, Dr. Kyle expanded his veterinary practice area to include parts of Rusk, San Augustine, Harrison, and Nacogdoches Counties in addition to his home counties of Panola and Shelby. Numerous students from Carthage High School have been mentored and assisted by Dr. Kyle, and he is especially proud of six of these students who went on to become practicing veterinarians: Dr. James J. Rushing, Dr. Tom Hooper, Dr. Cindy Nugent Pfluger, Dr. Richard T. Wall, Dr. Dean Yates, and Dr. John Alexander.

Dr. Kyle is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Texas Veterinary Medical Association, from which he received the Distinguished Career Achievement Award, and he has been awarded a life membership in the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Kyle lived his profession every day in his practice and felt that he never had to go to work a day in his life.

The Kyles have been married for 54 years and have three children, three grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

In 1976, Dr. Gayle joined the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL).  He served as Case Supervisor, as Head of Diagnostic Services, and as Executive Director , having been appointed to this position in 2002.  During his tenure as Executive Director, Dr. Gayle oversaw a major upgrade in the laboratory's capabilities.  These upgrades included new overall space, new space for high consequence animal disease testing, and a mobile laboratory facility.  These improvements made it possible to test for and diagnose many infectious animal diseases that threaten the nation's livestock industry.  In this role he directed one of the largest and busiest veterinary diagnostic laboratory systems in the world.

TVMDL is one of five diagnostic laboratories in the country that comprise the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, which provides surveillance and response to high consequence animal diseases.  At its two major locations in College Station and Amarillo, the lab performs diagnostic testing for thousands of veterinary hospitals and clinics across the country.  Two smaller labs in Center and Gonzales provide disease surveillance and diagnostic testing for the poultry industry.  TVMDL, with its laboratories in College Station, Amarillo, Center, and Gonzales, receives over 220,000 cases a year from Texas animal industries.  Established in 1967 by the Texas Legislature, TVMDL serves to aid and educate Texas animal industries in identifying and preventing animal diseases and intoxication and to help protect the health of Texans by identifying diseases transmissible from animals to people.

Dr. Gayle served as president of the Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice in 1985, after which he went on to hold every executive leadership position in the Texas Veterinary Medical Association, including his service as TVMA President in 1996.  He has received numerous recognitions including the Distinguished Achievement Award from the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (1988), the Vice Chancellor's Award in Excellence (1994), the Regents Fellow Service Award (1999), and the Texas Poultry Federation Distinguished Service Award (2007).  Dr. Gayle was also named as a Distinguished Member of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association and as Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director Emeritus at Texas A&M University in 2007.

Dr. Gayle and his wife, Melody, have three children and eight grandchildren.

In order to become adults, fleas need warm weather, between 70 and 80 degrees, and around 70 to 80 percent relative humidity.

"Those ideal conditions are usually what we are experience during this time of the year, which is why we generally see more fleas coming out in the spring," said Dr. Alison Diesel, lecturer in dermatology at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM).

Unlike many geographical areas where seasonal differences occur, fleas can be present year-round in Texas because of our warmer winters.

While many people think fleas are relatively harmless except for making our pets itch, fleas can cause numerous other health problems in our pets.

For example, some animals may react to an allergen found in fleas' saliva, causing the animal to have an allergic reaction.  This causes the animal to itch and ultimately scratch, which can lead to a secondary skin infection.

If there is a massive amount of fleas, anemia could even become a potential problem, especially with small animals that do not have large amounts of blood.  Fleas also carry diseases like tapeworms and Bartonella (which causes "cat scratch disease") that can infect both pets and humans.

While there is no way to completely prevent fleas from reaching our pets, a key factor to controlling fleas is breaking their life cycle either by killing the adults and/or at least one of the juvenile stages.

"The flea life cycle has four phases: the adult fleas lay eggs, the eggs hatch into larvae, the larvae turns into pupae, which, eventually, turn into adults," said Diesel. "Targeting several phases of the flea lifecycle is best, particularly when dealing with an infestation.  The easiest stage to target is the adult flea since they live on the pet.  The other stages, such as eggs, larvae, and pupae, are present in the environment."

With regards to specific therapy for fleas and secondary problems, your pet's veterinarian is a valuable resource for the best options and possible medications.

"Your pet's veterinarian can help recommend the most appropriate product to help prevent fleas based on other factors (other skin conditions, food allergies, etc.) as well as discuss the appropriate way to administer the product," said Diesel. "I suggest using a flea prevention that lasts the entire month and is still effective if the pet gets wet."

Using flea prevention products once every 30 days provides the best protection for your pet from flea bites and can even prevent a flea infestation from being established in your pet's environment. It is important to minimize an animal's exposure to fleas by avoiding infested areas and pets.

"There are some things which can be done to minimize exposure to fleas: avoid known infested areas, do not allow your pet to come into contact with wild animals or burrows, and protect areas of the house where wild animals may enter to minimize wild animals from establishing residency in the first place," said Diesel. "If fleas become a problem inside the house, try vacuuming once a week."

If the flea presence grows larger, there are various in-house treatments and exterminators to aid in flea removal.

"Focus on places where the pets spends most of their time inside the house because that will contain the most concentrated area of fleas," said Diesel. "Also, don't forget under beds and furniture, behind curtains, and along hallways connecting rooms when treating the house for fleas. It may be best to contact a professional exterminator when there is a large flea burden present."

In addition to treating animals and the inside of the home, it may also be essential to treat the outside environment around your home.  This can be done by treating areas of the surrounding property that have an unusually high populace of fleas.

"This includes shaded areas, under trees and bushes, in dog houses, under porches and decks.  As with indoor control, when the burden is high, a professional exterminator may be the most help," said Diesel.

The best approach to managing fleas is to practice prevention continuously throughout the year by treating all pets with proper medication as well as treating the inside and outside of the home if there is a suspected infestation.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Photo on right: Rachel Curtis (middle, 2013 NSF Fellowship recipient) collects samples from wild birds with her lab mates Miranda Curtis DVM (left; CVM Merit Fellow) and Andrew Golnar (right; PhD student in Entomology; also a 2013 NSF Fellowship recipient).

"Rats are probably the most social and interactive of the small rodents," said Dr. Sharman Hoppes, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "Rats are gentle, seldom bite, and are active during the day and are fairly easy to take care of.  Rats do not have special dietary needs or sensitive stomachs, although they do need a good quality rodent block or pellet." 'The seed mix diets are not a nutritionally adequate diet."

To determine which pet may be best for you, you need to evaluate your expectations.

"When picking out a pet rodent, you should select an active, social rodent with clean eyes, clean nose, and normal teeth.  The skin should be well groomed and clean. There should be no lumps or bumps on their skin," said Hoppes.

Small rodents, such as mice and hamsters, can bite more and tend to be more active at night.

Guinea pigs and chinchillas are a bit bigger and are gentle pets, but they have special dietary needs and their teeth continuously grow.

Gerbils are unlikely to bite, if handled gently.  They have few health problems and are the cleanest of all the commonly kept pet rodents.

If you are more interested in observing your pet and don't have as much time, a gerbil, hamster, or mouse is an option as they are happy living in their cage.

"If you want a socially active pet that needs lots of attention and activity, a rat, chinchilla, or guinea pig is a great pet," said Hoppes.  "Rats are so social that they should not be housed alone. If you are a night owl, then hamsters may be best since they tend to sleep all day and run in their wheel all night.

One important aspect of keeping a pet rodent is that their cage needs to be cleaned one to two times a week to keep ammonia levels down.  Also, keeping the cage clean will help decrease the incidence of a respiratory disease.

"Rodents are animals and therefore require care," said Hoppes.  "All pet rodents need a clean large cage, chew toys, ladders, plastic or PVC pipe, and daily interaction.  Beddings such as Paper, aspen, or walnut shavings are best, while corncob, pine, and cedar shavings should be avoided."

Rodents need fresh water and food constantly.  Guinea pigs and chinchillas have a special need for timothy hay since they have continuously growing cheek teeth.  This hay helps keep the teeth from overgrowing.  Additionally, guinea pigs need vitamin C daily.  All rodents can have a small amount of fruits and vegetables for treats.

Chinchillas also need daily dust baths, and they and guinea pigs are very sensitive to heat and humidity.  Both are susceptible to heatstroke in temperatures as low as 80-85 degrees, especially if the humidity is higher than 40%.

"Pet rodents do not need vaccinations," said Hoppes.  "There are few diseases to be concerned with, and while salmonella infection has been documented, it is rare.  Rat bite fever, caused by a bacterial infection, may occur after a rat bite.  This can be prevented by immediately disinfecting any bite wound from a rat."

While diseases are uncommon in rodents, rats are prone to mammary tumors and hamsters often have diarrhea (wet tail).  Many rodents are also prone to respiratory disease.

It is important to keep pet rats away from wild ones and to wash your hands after handling any small mammal.  Guinea pigs and chinchillas are susceptible to ring worm so any hair loss or patchy areas on the skin should be seen by a veterinarian for treatment immediately.

The life span of pet rodents varies.  Mice and hamsters generally live one to two years, rats two to three years, gerbils three to five years, guinea pigs five to seven years, and chinchillas live eight to 12 years or longer.

"Small rodents should not be pets for small children," said Hoppes.  "Children less than 10 years old should be supervised closely when handling small rodents.  The care and monitoring of any pet is ultimately the parent's responsibility."

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Veterinary technicians are nominated for this award by members of the TVMA.  Dr. Johnathon "Bert" Dodd, Clinical Professor at the CVM and TVMA member, nominated Waddell and described her as "one of the most proficient techs with whom I have ever worked."

"Her patience with students and her love for teaching is absolutely amazing," Dodd continued. "Over and over she has been awarded the 'Student Choice Award' at the College of Veterinary Medicine."

"Katy is an outstanding member of our hospital staff," said Dr. Eleanor Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "Her excellent clinical skills make her a valuable member of our treatment teams in the Small Animal Hospital, and her ability to share that knowledge with our students and actively engage them in the learning process has made a tremendous impact in the education of future veterinarians."

Waddell has always enjoyed teaching, she said, which is one of the reasons she returned to the CVM in 2002 after 15 years in private practice. She had previously worked at the CVM for seven years in the 1980s.

"I just love to see the light bulb go on when students understand something," Waddell said. "It's incredibly rewarding."

Waddell said that one of the best ways she can help patients is by teaching students, which she does above and beyond her job requirements. In addition to speaking at regional and national meetings, she teaches online courses that draw an international audience. She even runs informal wet labs for student groups on weekends. This work helps Waddell enhance her ability to be a patient advocate while simultaneously fostering her profession, she said.

This work very much impressed the TVMA awards committee, said Devorah Jakubowsky, the Associate Director of TVMA. One of the selection criteria used by the committee was leadership in and contributions to advancing the role and value of the veterinary technician.

In addition to inspiring her students, Waddell remains committed to challenging herself. She enjoys working at the CVM because she gets to work on a wide variety of cases.

"It's learning opportunity for me every day," Waddell said. In fact, she went into anesthesia because she wanted to look at the whole patient, or "nose to toes," as she put it.

In her personal time, Waddell enjoys cooking and grows her own herbs, including catnip for her six cats and the six others she is fostering. Until recently, she had a dog as well, but when he passed away she didn't feel like she immediately needed to get another one.

"I don't need to search for them; animals find me," she said. Perhaps they can sense her deep love of and commitment to them. One of the best parts of her job, she says, is when she sees an injured animal recover and get to go home.

It was this passion for veterinary medicine that the TVMA recognized in honoring her with the Technician of the Year Award at the TVMA Awards and Installation Banquet on March 2, 2013.

For more information about the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, please visit our website at vetmed.tamu.edu or join us on Facebook

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Angela G. Clendenin
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Cell - (979) 739-5718

"It's important to start young with potty training, because what we don't want to do is establish bad habits in our pets," said Dr. Mark Stickney, Clinical Associate Professor at  the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "Once they learn one way to do something it's hard for them to unlearn it, and any change can confuse them."

"Begin training your dog as soon as you bring it home," said Stickney. "Take it straight outside and give it plenty of time to go potty. Stay out there with it, but ignore it until it is done. Then, as soon as it is done, give it a treat and 'ooh and ahh' over it."

While this progression may be irritating and time-consuming, it will be well worthwhile when you no longer have to pick up messes inside your house.

When your pet is inside the house, one of the most effective ways to train it is by crate training.

"When you are not at home you should keep your pet in a crate inside your house," said Stickney. "This becomes their safe place, or den, and thus crate training takes advantage of their natural instinct not to make a mess in their own den."

As soon as your home instantly take your pet out of its crate and outside to do its business.

"It's not realistic to leave a puppy in a carrier for eight hours straight and not have an accident," said Stickney. "If at all possible you should try to come home or arrange for someone to come by and give it a potty break in the middle of the day if you work full-time."

It is important to never use your pet's crate as punishment. Your pet sees the crate as its safe-place, and if they are put in one as punishment the pet will develop a negative view of it and will no longer see it as their den.

"This also goes for punishment of accidents. Never negatively reinforce their behavior," said Stickney. "If you swat or scold them when they have an accident they not only don't connect their accident to the punishment, but it can cause anxiety and lead to slower potty training."

If you have followed these training recommendations and are still ineffective, there are professional dog trainers who can help with the development. You should also check with your veterinarian to make sure the animal does not have an underlying problem.

Potty training is significantly different for cats and dogs. While dogs need time attention to train, cats are quite a bit easier.

"Litter training is instinctive for cats," said Stickney. "All you really need to do is put your kitten in the room with the litter pan and keep it in there when you are not playing with it or paying attention to it."

While there are a number of diverse litter-boxes available for your kitten, the most important aspect to look for, at least initially, is that your kitten is comfortable and can easily get in and out.

"You have to remember that when you bring home a kitten it is just a little baby, and if you get a really high box it may have trouble getting into the box and therefore will not use it," said Stickney. "It's also good to remove anything in the room that may resemble litter such as potted plants, or they may become your pet's bathroom."

When choosing a litter for your box it is important to remember that, while there are many varieties available, they are mostly marketed for human preferences. Find one that your cat will use and that works for you as well.

"Although all cat-litter brands are ok to use it may helpful if you know what kind of litter your kitten was using before it came to live with you and start with that if possible," said Stickney. "Cats can be texture and odor specific with their litter so if you start with that you can gradually transition them to another litter later if you prefer."

"If your dog or cat is already housebroken and suddenly starts having accidents it may be a sign that it has a health problem," said Stickney. "In this case you should definitely take the pet to its veterinarian for a check-up."

No one wants to deal with pet messes in their home. If you have a potty-training plan in place and are adamant about it, you can have both a healthy, happy and potty-trained animal and a clean, fresh smelling home.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

You've probably heard the term "mangy mutt" referring to a poor dog with a ratty, patchy coat. That's actually how dogs with sarcoptic mange really look. Mange is a condition caused by an infestation of a specific type of mite that is too tiny to be seen with the naked eye.

"In this country, primarily dogs get sarcoptic mange, or scabies," said Dr. Alison Diesel, lecturer at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "It can be transmitted and carried by other wild canids including coyotes and foxes."

Sarcoptes mites are very contagious and can be spread by your pet coming into contact with an infected source.

"Sarcoptes mites are spread by direct contact with an infected animal or from an infected environment (e.g. coyote den or fox burrow, even dog parks or grooming facilities)," said Diesel. "It is important that all in-contact animals be treated for mites if one dog in the household is diagnosed with scabies."

The most common sign associated with sarcoptic mange is severe itchiness.

"Dogs may also develop a rash, lose their hair, and have crusting lesions on various body regions," said Diesel. "The most common areas include the ear margins, hocks, and elbows; however signs may become generalized very quickly."

Veterinarians often use therapy or the pet's history and clinical signs to diagnose mange.

"Sarcoptes mites can be VERY difficult to find as they live very superficially on the skin and are typically only present in very small numbers," said Diesel. "Skin scrapings may help to identify the mites, however often we do not find the mites on our patients. A positive "pinnal-pedal response" (where the veterinarian folds the ear flap on itself, rubs the two surfaces together, and watches for the hind limb to exhibit the classic "Thumper" or scratching response) can be supportive of the suspected diagnosis."

Your dog's veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate therapy given your animal's specific needs and preferences. Typically therapy lasts between 6-8 weeks.

"Thankfully, Sarcoptes mites are pretty wimpy, said Diesel. "Several topical, oral, and injectable treatments are available for treating them. Certain breeds (e.g. Collies, Shetland sheepdogs, Border collies) need to be specially considered as some of the therapeutic options can be toxic and cause severe side effects including seizures."

Unfortunately, sarcoptic mange can also be spread from dogs to their owners.

"If a pet owner is concerned they may have contracted scabies from their pet, particularly if their veterinarian diagnoses scabies, they should contact their primary care physician for recommendations and let them know their dog is being treated for scabies," said Diesel.

The best prevention from mange is to keep dogs away from known infested environments including coyote dens and fox burrows.

"If the owner knows their dog has scabies, they should also keep their pet away from other dogs (including staying away from dog parks, doggie day care and groomers) until the infestation is fully resolved," said Diesel.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

After three years of intense work, Dr. Sankar P. Chaki, a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), has identified a molecular mechanism that coordinates an "inner compass" that enables directional cell migration. Chaki, working in the laboratory of Dr. Gonzalo Rivera, was looking for links between changes in the morphology of vascular endothelial cells and their ability to set and maintain a particular direction while crawling on two-dimensional surfaces.

"Cell migration is currently an area of very active research," Rivera said. "Recently, our group joined hundreds of scientists from around the globe that gathered at the Gordon Research Conference on Directed Cell Migration, held in Galveston, TX, to discuss topics ranging from basic molecular and cellular mechanisms and function, to new imaging technology, to new therapeutic interventions. Understanding regulation of cell migration is the key to developing new therapies to alleviate conditions that involve either activation or inhibition of cell migration."

Rivera further explained that tissue repair and wound healing are examples of conditions that require stimulation of cell migration; whereas, the progression of invasive cancers, arthritis, and certain cardiovascular-related disorders, could be restricted by inhibition of cell migration.

Cells orient themselves during the process of migration by two essential regulatory mechanisms. One of them is dictated by the presence of external signals - either attractants or repellents. The other operates as a cell's inner compass, a built-in molecular mechanism that enables the establishment of cell polarity, i.e. the formation of distinct front and rear ends and directional migration.

"Cell polarization sets in motion a molecular process that enables directional cell migration by coordinating changes in cell shape, cell-cell contacts, and cell adhesion to the surface", Chaki explained. "Using a combination of molecular genetics, cell biology, and advanced imaging techniques, we showed that Nck adaptors are key components of the molecular machinery that coordinates intrinsic cell directionality. Nck adaptors modify the actin cytoskeleton - a meshwork of filaments that controls cell shape and motility - and contribute to directional migration by coordinating the formation of crawling pseudopods - or foot-like extensions - that adhere to the surface."

Images showing normally polarized and unpolarized endothelial cells. Cell polarity and directional migration is indicated by the localized activation of Cdc42, a critical component of the cell's inner compass, at the leading edge (left panel). Loss of cell polarity, on the other hand, is evidenced by the altered pattern of CdC42 activation and abnormal morphology of the Nck-depleted cell (right panel).

Intrinsic cell directionality is observed when cells respond to a non-directional, uniform signal that triggers the basic motility machinery in the absence of any external guidance factor. Vascular endothelial cells with depletion of Nck adaptors exhibit loss of cell polarity - failure to establish a clear front and rear end - and impaired directional migration, i.e. inability to sustain directionality while crawling.

These findings from Rivera's laboratory, accepted for publication in the highly regarded Journal of Cell Science, are significant because they establish new potential targets in diseases that involve altered cell migration and invasion such as cancer metastasis and atherosclerosis.

Rivera emphasized the multi-disciplinary nature of this research. "We succeeded in integrating a team that combines expertise in cell biology, biophysics, imaging technology, and computer-assisted image analysis.  The team of collaborators includes Drs. Andreea Trache (TAMU HSC), Rola Barhoumi (CVM Image Analysis Laboratory) and Shawn Gomez (University of North Carolina). We are also grateful for the support provided by the American Heart Association, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, and Texas A&M University," Rivera said.

An ongoing research project in the laboratory is examining the role of Nck adaptors and cytoskeletal remodeling in the establishment of polarity and lumen formation in vascular networks developing in three-dimensional environments that more accurately resemble the organization of tissues in the body.

The full research article can be accessed at: http://jcs.biologists.org/content/early/2013/02/21/jcs.119610.long

Contact Information

Angela G. Clendenin
Director, Communications & Public Relations
Ofc - (979) 862-2675
Cell - (979) 739-5718

Winter 2012 • Volume 14, No. 1

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"Ideally, you should brush your pet's teeth daily," states Dr. Johnathon Dodd, clinical professor at Texas A&M's College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "Make sure you are using special toothpaste that is made for pets and is safe for them to swallow. They cannot spit or rinse like we do, so our pets need specific kinds of toothpaste that is not harmful if ingested."

Having your pet's teeth inspected and cleaned is an important responsibility many owners overlook. This seemingly slight slip of your pet's dental care could be causing serious problems in your pet's mouth.

Gum disease is the most common disease occurring in pets today. It results from the build-up of soft dental plaque on the surfaces of the teeth around the gums. The bacteria in dental plaque irritate the gum tissue if it accumulates, which leads to infection in the bone surrounding the teeth.

After plaque has formed hard dental tartar, calcium salts from saliva that has been deposited on plaque, begins to grow. If the surface of the tooth does not stay clean, tartar begins to form within a few days.

The un-brushed tooth provides a surface that boosts further plaque accumulation. If plague is allowed to accumulate, tartar is difficult to remove without dental instruments.

For our pets gum disease means bad breath and painful, irritated gums that can lead to bleeding, loss of appetite, and the loss of teeth if the roots have been affected.

There is also the possibility that the bacteria surrounding the root of the tooth gains access to the bloodstream, which can lead to microscopic damage of the heart, liver, and kidney. As the severity of the gum disease increases, so does the damage.

The best way to ward off potential oral disease in your pet is by keeping your pet's teeth clean and checkups regular.

Your veterinarian and local pet retail stores should carry toothbrushes and toothpaste for your pets. Different flavors of toothpastes are available for dog and cats.

"Your pet needs to get their teeth cleaned yearly," said Dodd. "Most veterinary clinics should offer dental cleaning services, but if they do not they can refer you to someone who does."

To help ward off gum diseases and bad breath, there are products you can feed your pet that help improve and promote oral health.

"There are certain dog treats that help promote good dental health," said Dodd. "The right kind of treat should crumble, be easily crushed, and contain chlorhexadine or a hydrogen peroxide-type additive that can help with the bacteria count in the animal's mouth. Balancing this bacteria count can help prevent and get rid of bad breath."

A helpful guide to go by when considering your pets' oral health is the Veterinary Oral Health Council website. They have a compiled list of products that are intended to help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth of animals and have created the VOHC seal of approval. To see the full list of VOHC approved products visit www.vohc.org.

Brushing your pet's teeth, taking them for a yearly visit to the dentist, and giving them VOHC approved products are all ways that you can help make sure your pet has a clean and healthy mouth.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

Pet owners should be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease so that they can provide their pet with the best possible care.

"Humid spring and summer days may cause dogs and cats to suffer more from mosquito bites that can lead to heartworm disease," said Dr. Sonya Gordon, associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "Dogs have a high risk of heartworm infection, but cats are also susceptible to the disease."

Pets become infected when a heartworm-infested mosquito bites the animal, transmitting the heartworm larvae into the tissue of the pet. As the larvae develop they travel through the tissue and ultimately settle in the blood vessels of the lungs, which leads to the development of heartworm disease.

"Heartworms should really be called lungworms because the adult worm typically lives in the blood vessels of the lungs, not the heart," said Gordon. "If left untreated, heartworms can lead to difficulty with breathing and even result in a clog of the right heart causing Caval Syndrome, which is when blood is prevented from traveling through the right side of the heart and causes the pet's abdomen to fill with fluid among other problems."

Signs of heartworm disease can include coughing, difficulty breathing, fainting, weight loss, and an overall decreased activity level. A blood test from your local veterinarian can determine if your pets have the disease.

While treatment for heartworm disease is possible, it is frequently much more expensive and hazardous than preventative medication.

Treatment for heartworm disease can cost up to $6,000, contingent on the disease severity, and is generally considered a dangerous procedure since a lethal substance must be used to exterminate the worms in the blood vessels and the pet's body must clean up the deceased worms itself. Treatment can last up to four months, depending on the severity of the case. During this time the pet must have their exercise severely restricted.

"The best overall treatment for heartworms is preventative medicine," said Gordon.  "Pet owners have a variety of treatment options to choose from including once-monthly tablets, tasty chewable tablets, topical medicines and even injections that can be given by your veterinarian twice per year.  It is important to use the treatment that works best for you and your pet."

Preventative medicine costs approximately $30-$100 per year, and is typically administered once a month to prevent heartworm larvae from developing into adults. Even pets that receive monthly preventative medicine should have a yearly blood test to ensure that they do not accidently become infected.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

"Before choosing a pesticide read the label to ensure it is safe for your pet," said Michael Golding, assistant professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "Avoid products with bone-meal as these can be tasty to your pet, and pesticides with organophosphates and carbamates as these can be extremely deadly."

The most common ways pets come into contact with pesticides is licking the toxic substances from their feet or coat, or by directly consuming the product from a container that has been left out.

If your pet begins showing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, trouble walking, drooling, nausea, and/or tremors contact your veterinarian immediately as these are signs that your pet is suffering from pesticide related toxicity.

"A common way pesticides cause problems in our pets is through organophosphates and carbamates," said Golding. "They act as competitive inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase, a key component of the central nervous system that allows the brain to regulate the body."

While newer, more environmentally safe pesticides have a wider safety margin, they are still not 100% safe.

"A product that is labeled 'green' is not necessarily safe for dog/cat who decides to eat it," said Golding. "It is best to be safe, so call your vet and read him/her the label information as soon as your pet has contact with the substance."

While pesticides are a main source for toxicity in pets, there are many other toxins in a home that pets can come into contact with.

"Garage toxins such as antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and fertilizers, and kitchen toxins like chocolate, bread dough, grapes, and onions are examples of household items that can be problematic if your pet comes into contact with them," said Golding. "For any toxic exposure, contact your veterinarian immediately. Another excellent resource is also the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680."

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed online at vetmed.tamu.edu/pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

"It is absolutely necessary to know if your veterinarian has an after hour emergency service and if not, who they recommend calling in case of an emergency," said Dr. Mark Stickney, Clinical Associate Professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "It is also imperative that you can call your veterinarian for advice on what to do to help your pet until you can get it to a clinic."

Two common emergency situations that pet owners should be equipped for are poisoning and trauma.

"If you suspect that your pet has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian. They may tell you to make it vomit by feeding it hydrogen peroxide," states Stickney. "While hydrogen peroxide is generally harmless, there are some poisons that will actually make things worse if the pet vomits so it is important that you contact your veterinarian first. Having a bottle of hydrogen peroxide in the medicine cabinet before you need it is a good idea."

As temperatures begin to rise, snake bites become more and more common with pets. If you think your pet has been bitten by a snake, stay calm and take it to the vet right away. Do not use a tourniquet on the animal, as this will limit the blood flow to the area causing more harm than good.

"The area where the pet was bitten will swell up very quickly," said Stickney. "Just because there is no visible puncture wound does not mean that your pet did not get bitten. If you are able to kill the snake, then take it to the veterinarian with you. If they can identify it they will have a better idea of how harmful the bite is."

Traumatic events such as getting hit by a car, bike, or other vehicle, are sadly not uncommon for pet dogs and cats. While the animal might look okay, it is a good idea to have it checked out by a veterinarian anyway.

"Trauma can be very deceiving. What appears to be a minor injury on the outside may hide a lot of damaged tissue on the inside," said Stickney.

The first thing to do if your pet has been injured and is bleeding is to put pressure on the area to slow blood flow. Wounded pets may bite from pain, fear, or confusion so it is good to have a muzzle to use in this type of situation.

"Your pet might be your best friend, but when dogs are hurt they may not remember that," said Stickney. "If you have a big dog, I would also recommend that you have a dog stretcher. They make it much easier to move large injured animals."

Less severe accidents such as minor cuts and scrapes are common and can be handled much like you would treat yourself.

"Make sure that the cut is as clean as possible," said Stickney. "I would not recommend putting antibiotic cream anywhere your pet can lick it off as this just causes more germs to get in the wound. If the cut is on an area they can't lick than something like Neosporin will be fine. Elizabethan collars are useful for preventing a pet from gaining access to an injury."

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed online here.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu

The conference, held by the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation on January 24-26, included breakout sessions where multidisciplinary groups tackled challenges relating to atrophic macular degeneration. In addition to experts from different fields, each group had a science writing scholar who wrote a report on how the group approached the problem and sought to solve it.

Age-related macular degeneration, a disease affecting the retina, progressively impairs vision in the affected eye or eyes. Currently only limited options exist for treatment. Several million people in the United States have age-related macular degeneration, and more are expected to develop the condition in the next decade as the population ages.

Mary Beth told us about her experience at the BIMR conference, and she described how the STJR program prepared her to attend as a science writer.

What made you want to attend this conference?

I wanted to attend the BIMR conference because it seemed to be unlike any other conference I had ever attended-or heard of. The conference brings together scientists from a range of fields, from microbiology to nanotechnology to genetics. [These scientists] spend the conference collaborating to work toward a better understanding of a disease that affects millions of Americans: atrophic age-related macular degeneration. I wanted to observe how scientists from different disciplines unite and deliberate to pursue a common goal.

What did you do as a "science writing scholar"?

As a science writing scholar, I was assigned to a task group to write a summary of their discussion during the breakout sessions and their conclusions made at the end of the conference. There were eight or nine science writing scholars, each assigned to different task groups, and we were led by professional science writer Barbara Culliton. I was also asked to write the summary for the entire conference as well as a report of the presentations made by recipients of grants from the Beckman Initiative last year. I will be completing these reports over the next few weeks.

What challenge was your group assigned?  Can you give us a basic idea of how they approached it?

I was assigned to the stem cell task group. Each task group is given a specific challenge along with guiding questions to help facilitate the discussion. Each group also had a leader to moderate the discussion. The leader could use a dry-erase board, poster board, or a computer projector to record major points or draw diagrams. The task groups were also free during some sessions to visit other task groups, usually to ask questions or gain insight about the disease from another perspective.

How did the STJR program prepare you to cover this conference?

The STJR program helped prepare me in quite a few ways to be a science writing scholar at the BIMR conference. First of all, because I have had practice interviewing researchers and writing stories, I am much more comfortable interacting with scientists, and I am not afraid to ask questions. STJR courses have also taught me the value of preparation before going into a conference or interview scenario. Lastly, I am much more self-aware about my writing because of STJR. We put a lot of emphasis on revising our work as well as receiving feedback from others. For this reason, I know what my strengths and weaknesses are, which makes doing independent revision (and receiving critiques from others) much easier.

You can find out more about the BIMR Conference here.

"Vaccines are a suspension of altered microorganisms which will prevent, lessen, or treat disease without causing the disease," said Dr. Mark Stickney, clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

Vaccines are considered the cornerstone of preventive medicine. Knowing the different types of vaccinations and how they work can help pet owners provide the best care for their animals.

"There are live, killed, modified live, and recombinant vaccinations," said Stickney. "By exposing the immune system to bacteria or viruses that are genetically similar to the ones that will cause disease, the immune system will develop antibodies that protect the body when it encounters the actual disease-causing organism."

"Some pet vaccines can be purchased over-the-counter and given by non-veterinarians," said Stickney. However, there may be quality control issues with vaccines if you are not familiar with the correct way to store and use them.

"By law, certain vaccines, like the rabies vaccine, can only be given by your veterinarian," said Stickney. "Your veterinarian is also the best person to determine which vaccines your pet needs and how frequently they should be administered."

"All puppies and kittens should receive the rabies vaccine at three months of age and again at one year of age. Vaccination schedules vary depending on the area of the country you are in and the prevalence of different diseases in that area," said Stickney.

Puppies should be vaccinated for distemper virus, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza, while kittens should be vaccinated for viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Other vaccinations may also be recommended depending on the lifestyle of your pet.

"Booster shots are necessary in puppies and kittens to overcome 'maternal immunity', where the antibodies that the puppies and kittens acquired from their mother provide some protection but eventually break down," said Stickney. "Vaccines are ineffective in the face of maternal immunity; therefore the puppy and kitten vaccine series is necessary to protect the pet during the time when the maternal immunity disappears. Booster shots remind the immune system of diseases it is supposed to protect against."

The frequency at which adult animals should receive booster vaccines has been a topic of debate among veterinarians for years. Increasingly, we have evidence that most vaccines do not need to be boosted every year and that the risk of an animal catching certain diseases decreases with age. Your veterinarian will be able to tailor a vaccine protocol to the specific lifestyle of your pet.

"No vaccine is 100% effective," said Stickney, "It is possible to overwhelm any vaccine and immune system with exposure to enough disease-causing organisms."

Additionally, adverse reactions can occur from vaccinations. These reactions are most likely to occur the second time an animal receives a vaccine. They usually occur within a few minutes to six hours of vaccination.

"There are two types of reactions commonly seen, anaphylactic and delayed hypersensitivity," said Stickney. "Delayed hypersensitivity reactions are more common and less serious. The pet becomes itchy and the face and ears swell. These reactions can usually be treated with antihistamines."

"Anaphylactic reactions are less common, and are serious and life-threatening," said Stickney. "The animal collapses and goes into shock. Epinephrine and intravenous fluids are necessary to treat the animal."

If your pet ever had an allergic reaction to a vaccine, it is important to let your veterinarian know. Even pets that are allergic to a specific vaccine typically have no problems if they are treated with antihistamines before vaccinations.

Remember, vaccines are health products that signal protective immune responses in your pet. Your veterinarian can best guide you in the use and scheduling of vaccinations for your pet.

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

"The good thing is that for most areas of Texas, even the 'winter months' do not get cold enough to cause serious problems in our pets or even most large animals," said Alison Diesel, lecturer at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "The thick coats of most domestic animal species are sufficient to provide protection from the cold here in Texas, but on the rare occasion of a colder day some other things could be considered."

One precaution pet owners must take is making sure dogs, cats, and other large animal species have an adequate defense from the cold when they are outside.

"Making sure blankets are available and dry can be extremely helpful for this purpose," said Diesel. "Also, as with people, turning up the heat can help keep our pets warm as well."

For smaller pets simply keeping them inside during the colder times can be the most beneficial. Nonetheless, short exposure to the outside cold can be fine and is usually not detrimental to the pet's health.

"Dogs and cats shiver a lot like people. This action is used to help generate body heat in cold climates," said Diesel. "If your pet shivers while outside, shorten the length of your trips together to help reduce this trembling. Providing extra bedding like blankets and towels will also keep your pets warm and cozy."

For larger pets that cannot come inside, making sure they have an adequate outdoor shelter is important to their comfort and safety. Shelters such as dog houses and stables can be very helpful during cold winds, and should have extra bedding (blankets, towels, hay, etc.) added for additional warmth.

"An important thing to remember for outdoor pets is to make sure they always have a fresh supply of water," said Diesel. "If it gets cold enough to freeze this should be checked regularly to make sure the water doesn't freeze over.  Moving water sources like fountains are less likely to do this."

Conditions like frostbite and hypothermia, while not typical in warmer climates like Texas, are severe conditions that are common in colder climates.

"Dehydration is a possibility as well if your pet's water source freezes over," said Diesel.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

The article, titled "Intercropping 'boosts maize yields by 50 per cent,'" achieved this status despite being published late in the year. The article "went viral" on reddit.com, generating more than 200 comments in just a few days.

The article focused on intercropping in Malawi and Zambia. Intercropping is the growing of two or more crops together to increase overall yield.

"[The STJR] program prepared me to write in a very concise manner," says Bernard of how his STJR skills helped him produce the popular article. "I learned the value of word counts, of having different perspectives to provide context, and how to pitch stories."

Bernard received an MS in science and technology journalism from Texas A&M University in 2010. He is now is a doctoral student in public health.

Featured News Articles

• Houston Chronicle Article - January 16, 2013
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"When planting your garden it is important to note that there are numerous house and garden plants which can be toxic to animals," said James Barr, Assistant Professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. "Some include brunfelsia, oleander, and even lilies."

Brunfelsia, also known as the "yesterday, today & tomorrow" plant, causes convulsive seizures in dogs, while cycads, low growing palm trees used indoors and outdoors, are toxic to the liver of dogs and they trend to chew on the roots.

"When the liver is contaminated, the dog's body stops producing the normal clotting factors and the dog starts bleeding excessively. This can progress to the point where the dog bleeds to death," said Barr.

While brunfelsia and cycads have not been known to cause problems in cats, lilies are especially harmful to them. Once ingested, cats develop symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, depression, and will stop eating altogether.

"Once ingested, the cat must be treated by a veterinarian, preferably within 24 hours and not later than 48 hours," said Barr. "The toxin(s) present in the lilies are very toxic to the kidneys."

Kolanchoe is a house plant that is known to be toxic. It contains a chemical which is similar to the human heart medication, digoxin.

"The garden plant oleander also contains digoxin-like compounds. Both kolanchoe and oleander can be toxic to all animals, including dogs and cats, if ingested," said Barr.

Spring is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Taking the time to make sure that everything you put in your yard is safe for your pet will ensure this time is special for the entire family.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pet-talk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

"People enjoy sharing food with their pets, it is part of the bonding process," said Deb Zoran, doctor of veterinary medicine, and associate professor at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM). "But proper control of the types and amounts of food pets are served is crucial for its safety."

"For example, a diet consisting too high of fats can very dangerous for dogs, even causing such problems as diarrhea or in severe cases pancreatitis," Zoran said. "The additional calories found in average table foods can also lead to obesity problems in your pet if not controlled."

These problems arise not from the food itself, as whole foods such as meat and potatoes are very nutritious and well digested, but from the many spices added and the food not being in the proper balance for the pet.

"The food itself is perfectly good for our pets," Zoran said. "If owners want to feed 'human food', and are willing to follow prescribed recipes set up by a nutritionist, then it is an excellent way to meet their nutritional needs."

Choosing to feed your pet in this fashion also leaves the owner with the responsibility for meeting their pet's proper nutritional needs, which are different for dogs and cats. Chicken is an excellent and frequently used meat source to feed pets, with the fat removed for dogs and left in place for cats.

"Generally high fat things are potentially very problematic for dogs, while cats don't need carbs in their diets at all," Zoran said. "Spices and seasonings, especially onions, capsaicin, and other additives are all potentially problematic in your pet food as well."

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pet-talk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

About Pet Talk

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

On Thursday, November 8, 2012, at the Ethel Ashworth-Tsutsui Memorial Lecture and Awards Ceremony she received a memorial plaque, certificate of recognition and a monetary award

Advisor:  Weston Porter

Many people are decorating their homes for the holidays, but pet owners should be aware that some plants used for holiday decorating can be dangerous to cats and dogs. Understanding which plants are toxic, and which are not, can help bring home the festive spirit and avoid danger for pets.

One of the most popular holiday plants often considered poisonous are poinsettias. But in fact, they are "non" to "mildly" toxic and do not deserve their bad reputation. Pets that ingest poinsettias generally have no clinical signs or mild gastrointestinal discomfort. A mild rash may develop if rubbed on the skin, but they are considered safe to keep in the home.

Dr. Dorothy Black, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CVM), explained, "Poinsettias are usually referred to as highly toxic, but they really aren't. Feel free to display them at Christmas."

Christmas trees are also generally safe for pets. However, pine needles can cause damage to eyes if pets should run into the tree, such as a corneal laceration. Should pets ingest the sap produced by the tree, mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur, but natural trees are generally non-toxic for cats and dogs.

Mistletoe, on the other hand, can be quite poisonous to pets. If ingested, pets may experience gastrointestinal upset, or show clinical signs of poisoning such as a change in mental function, difficulty breathing, or a low heart rate.

"If you see these symptoms in your pet and suspect or know they ingested mistletoe, you should seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible," Black said. "Mistletoe shouldn't be used where pets could possibly reach it."

Another holiday decorative plant, holly, can be dangerous for pets and is considered poisonous. Clinical symptoms may be displayed as vomiting, diarrhea, decreased energy, and general upset stomach. Owners should seek veterinary assistance if they suspect their pets of ingesting holly.

Amaryllis and Daffodils are also considered poisonous for pets. If ingested, pets may vomit, appear depressed, or show signs of a painful abdomen and a loss of appetite.

"Some pets who consume amaryllis or daffodils will show symptoms of tremors," Black said. "This can be a sign of severe toxicity."

Lilies are particularly toxic to cats. The ingestion of any part of any type of lily can lead to kidney failure. The clinical signs can include vomiting, depression, or loss of appetite. If you suspect your cat of ingesting lilies, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. There is no antidote, and intense supportive care is needed for cats to recover.

"The more toxic the plant, the more careful you should be with displaying them in your home. While Poinsettias and Christmas trees are generally safe for pets, holly, mistletoe, amaryllis, daffodils, and lilies should be considered quite toxic," Black said. "Pets should not be allowed to come in contact with poisonous holiday plants, and if they are displayed in the home they should be kept out of reach, and pet's behavior should be monitored to make sure they do not show symptoms of poisoning."

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pet-talk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

Researchers at leading institutes around the world including the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM) are collaborating on a new project where everyone is encouraged to participate and find out what type of microbiome, or bacteria, are in their gut. The American Gut project, led by the Human Food Project, builds on the work of previous studies, including the five-year, $173-million National Institutes of Health-funded Human Microbiome Project, and provides a way for the general public, their kids, and pets to participate.

"This is an important study that revolves around everyone participating," said Jan Suchodolski, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the CVM. "Unlike previous projects, anyone can participate, allowing us to examine the microbiome from a wide variety of people and develop an understanding of how diet and lifestyle affect microbes."

The gut microbiome has been linked to many diseases, including obesity, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease: interestingly, all these diseases are much more common in Western populations. "We should start thinking about diets not only from the perspective of what we should eat, but what we should be feeding our entire supraorganism," said Jeff Leach, founder of the Human Food Project and co-founder of American Gut.

"This project truly brings together a dream team of microbiome investigators," said Rob Knight, an associate professor with the BioFrontiers Institute at the University of Colorado at Boulder and a co-founder of American Gut. "And building a framework where we can join together to understand the microbiome is critical."

The project builds on the success team members have had previously in other areas such as examining the microbiome of pets.  Previous studies, for example, described the gut microbiomes of dogs and cats of different ages and sizes.  The researchers of these previous studies found that every animal has a unique microbial ecosystem that is partially influenced by diet and environment.  To help with the examination of companion animals' microbiomes contributors to the American Gut project are urged to bring their pets with them to participate.

"By being able to collect this massive dataset in healthy pet animals, it will allow us to identify differences in gut microbiota between healthy and diseased dogs and cats, which, ultimately, will lead to better treatment modalities for our furry companions," Suchodolski said.

Since companion animals are living in close quarters with humans as family members, Suchodolski said there is potential to transfer parts of the microbiome between humans and pets.

"The American Gut project provides an excellent platform to study the microbiomes of humans as well as animals, because it is a multi-center collaborative study including the leading experts in the microbiome field. The results of this study will be made openly available which will drastically advance the research in this field," Suchodolski said.

Participants in the project include many of the key players in the Human Microbiome Project including Dirk Gevers, group leader of microbial systems and communities at the Broad Bnstitute of Harvard and MIT, Joseph Petrosino, director of the Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research at Baylor College of Medicine, and Curtis Huttenhower, an assistant professor at the Harvard School of Public Health; key players in the Earth Microbiome Project including Janet Jansson, professor and senior staff scientist at the University of California at Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Jack Gilbert, assistant professor at the University of Chicago and staff scientist at Argonne National Laboratory, and J. Gregory Caporaso, assistant professor at Northern Arizona University and Argonne National Laboratory; and other experts on the human genome, microbiome, microbiome in human disease  susceptibility  and evolution including Ruth Ley, assistant professor at Cornell University, George Church, founder of the Personal Genome Project and Professor at Harvard Medical School, Rob Dunn an associate professor at North Carolina State University and Founder of Yourwildlife.org, Jeroen Raes, professor at the Flemish Institute of Biotechnology (VIB), Brussels, Jonathan Eisen, professor at the University of California, Davis, Susan Holmes, professor at Stanford University, Ramnik Xavier, chief of gastroenterology at the Massachusetts General Hospital, director for the study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and senior associate member of the Broad Institute, Kelly Swanson, associate professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Jan Suchodolski, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

Unlike traditional projects, funded by grant applications to the government or private foundations, American Gut will be funded by donations from the public. Please visit http://www.indiegogo.com/americangut to learn more about the project and participation.

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Angela G. Clendenin
Director, Communications & Public Relations
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Hypothermia, occurring in both humans and pets, is a condition characterized by abnormally low body temperatures. There are three phases of hypothermia: mild, classified as a body temperature of 90-99 degrees Fahrenheit; moderate, classified as a body temperature of 82-90 degrees Fahrenheit; and severe, classified as a body temperature of less than 82 degrees Fahrenheit.  With hypothermia, the dog is no longer able to control a normal body temperature resulting in an abnormal heartbeat and difficulties breathing.

Generally, hypothermia results from spending too much time outside in the cold.  Although there is not a specific time limit for a given temperature a dog should be left outside, Dr. Stacy Eckman, lecturer at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, said time spent outside in the cold should be restricted.

"The amount of time a pet should spend outside varies based on how acclimated the pet is to cooler temperatures," Eckman said. "Typically, we do not recommend indoor pets to spend considerable amounts of time outdoors in cold temperatures without supervision."

Hypothermia should be considered when taking any pet into the cold for long periods of time, but some are more susceptible to the illness than others.  Smaller, younger dogs, for example, are likely to lose their body heat faster resulting in hypothermia, Eckman said.

"Geriatric patients may take medications that alter their ability to regulate their temperature and blood flow making them also more susceptible," she said.

She added that Arctic breeds such as Huskies or Malamutes can be less prone to hypothermia than other breeds because of their thicker coats.

If a dog is left in the cold for an extended period of times, signs of hypothermia to look for are shivering, lethargy, weakness, and shallow breathing. The more severe the case of hypothermia, the worse the signs will appear.

"After a period of time, the shivering stops and they become more neurologically affected," Eckman said. "Their heart rates may drop to dangerous levels, and it can be fatal."

It is important to take the pet to the veterinarian or seek a veterinarian's advice if hypothermia is suspected. Once there, the veterinarian can monitor the pet's heartbeat, breathing, and temperature.  If the temperature falls below 98 degrees Fahrenheit, Eckman said the veterinarian will start "active warming" on the pet. Active warming includes placing warm blankets or heating pads on the animal and feeding it warmed oats or rice.  Eckman cautioned that owners should not perform these methods of treatment before consulting a veterinarian.

"Items such as heating pads should never be applied directly to pets as this can cause thermal burns," she said.

For severe cases, the veterinarian may give warmed IV fluids or warm water enemas to the pet.

Another result from leaving a dog in the cold for long periods of time is frostbite.  Frostbite occurs on areas least covered by fur such as ears and tails.  Signs of frostbite include red, swollen areas or pale, white areas.  As with hypothermia, it is important to consult a veterinarian if frostbite is suspected.

To prevent hypothermia and frostbite, it is recommended that pets, particularly smaller, younger or older pets, are not in the cold for extended periods of time.  Eckman also recommended putting sweaters or booties on the pet to keep them warm.

"Dogs with coats and booties may look cute, but this 'fashion statement' may protect from hypothermia," she said.

This winter, whether staying in Texas or traveling to Colorado, remember to monitor the temperature if your pet is spending extended periods of time in the cold.

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pet-talk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

Sarah Griffin, a lecturer at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), says the first step in preparing for your pet's travel is to keep up-to-date with interstate and international travel regulations, which can be found online at www.aphis.usda.gov.

"If you are going across state borders a health certificate is required, which involves a veterinarian examining your pet, updating their vaccinations, and ensuring that your pet is travel healthy," says Griffin. "You should also make sure that pets are allowed at places you will be staying, especially with inns and hotels."

Must have items to pack for your pet's travels include a collar and leash for walks during pit-stops, a crate and blankets for a cozy place for your pet to sleep, toys for your pet to relax and dishes for food, water, and medications.

"A list of veterinarians and/or pet emergency clinics along the way and at the destination is important in case of any unfortunate accidents," says Griffin. "You should also make sure your pet has a form of identification with up-to-date information, like a microchip."

Pet owners should remember that traveling is stressful for pets in much of the same way it is for their owners. Make sure that your pet is habituated to riding in a car before starting an extended road trip. While medication can be prescribed for anxiety it is highly recommended to just train your pet for extensive car outings.

"When on outings make sure your pet is restrained in the car by either a harness, a pet friendly seat belt, or is safe in a crate, as this protects the pet and the car's other passengers," says Griffin. "A pet bed or blanket should be kept with your pet at all times to help keep their anxiety in check. It is also important to make sure the seats containing your pet have their air bags deactivated to prevent any unfortunate accidents. While out on the road, make sure to stop about every three or so hours to allow your pet to use the bathroom and drink water."

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pettalk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

Strangles, also known as equine distemper, is caused by a bacterial infection of the highly infectious Streptococcus equi (Strep equi). It most commonly affects young horses, generally two years of age or less. Although the disease is potentially fatal, the mortality rate is generally less than 10 percent. The morbidity rate, however, is quite high due to the infectious nature of the germ and its ability to survive once infected horses contaminate the environment. The disease has an incubation period ranging from a few days to two weeks. Therefore, minimum isolation time of two weeks is recommended with horses that have been exposed, or horses having an unknown history for biosecurity purposes.

"We see it so commonly in young horses when the germ is found in endemic areas; the younger animals often lack adequate immune protection" said Dr. Glennon Mays, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Science (CVM). "That means that once a location is contaminated with Strangles, we often see it reappear in the horse population because the bacterium is located in that environment. When horses are born or brought to that location, if they don't have protective immunity, they become infected. "

The Strep equi germ can survive in contaminated soil, water troughs, feed buckets, and tack. The germ can even be transferred by people from one location to another. Direct transmission between horses occurs through contaminated mucus excretions of the infected horse to the naïve horse. Contaminated horses may shed the germ for two to three weeks.

Infected horses can exhibit several signs, such as general depression and dull behavior, runny nose or eyes and fever. The classic symptom of the infection is swollen lymph nodes beneath the jaw or throat areas or in other external and/or internal body locations. Lymph nodes will usually swell two to three days after infection, and horses will be able to spread disease for approximately two to three weeks after clinical signs appear.

"These lymph nodes swell in reaction to the infection, and often develop into large pus formations," Mays said. "After swelling, when the nodes soften, it is often therapeutic to drain the nodes by surgical incision. But this requires great caution since large blood vessels are often in close proximity. Care to contain the recovered pus is necessary because it can be very contaminating wherever it collects. The lymph nodes really serve as an area of collection of the bacteria and a concentration point of the infection."

"You don't want that fluid getting into the soil, or on objects that will come in contact with uninfected horses," Mays said. "Remember that the person handling the infected horse or the infected material coming from the horse can become a vehicle for spreading the disease."

In addition to relieving the swelling of glands, veterinarians will typically administer supportive care, such as anti-inflammatory medications, to horses that retain an adequate appetite, hydration status, and don't display difficulty breathing.

Some patients may experience high fever spikes (103 F or more) and require more aggressive therapy. In these instances, administration of antibiotics, electrolyte fluids, and anti-inflammatories become necessary. Additional products believed to stimulate the immune system are sometimes incorporated into the therapeutic plan, however, many equine practitioners choose against initiating antimicrobial therapy unless the patient is fevered, depressed, and listless to the point of not eating and drinking adequately.

Mays explained that in some cases Strangles can develop into a clinical presentation called Purpura Haemorrhagica. Purpura causes vasculitis in the extremities resulting in painful swelling of the legs due to acute inflammation of peripheral blood vessels. The legs become tender and sore because circulation is impaired. Horses that develop this condition are either infected with Strangles and progress to the purpura stage, or were previously exposed to the germ without developing an infection.

"The reason behind this development is poorly understood, "Mays said. "But horses that develop purpura are extremely depressed and actually show more clinical signs of illness - essentially sicker than with Strangles alone."

The vasculitis in the legs can significantly prolong recovery, and can be severe enough that the swelling permanently damages musculoskeletal structures. Laminitis is not an unusual resulting chronic condition. Complications from purpura can produce career-ending results for performance horses. Purpura can also become fatal if not treated in a timely or effective manner.

"My biggest concern is purpura creating a systemic effect resulting in a generalized, body-wide infection producing toxins that becomes a life-threatening condition, "Mays said.

The best defense against Strangles is to create a barrier through biosecurity.  Avoid transporting young horses into contaminated or endemic areas. Isolate horses of unknown exposure history for a minimum of two weeks to prevent possible exposure of disease to other animals. Do not bring horses displaying signs of illness into contact with healthy horses. Remember, the infection can be transferred on clothing, tack, vehicle tires, or hands. Due to Strangles' extremely contagious character, seek veterinary care immediately if suspected. . Often, the veterinarians prefer to examine the animal away from their clinic to avoid contamination.

Vaccines have been available for decades, but remain a contested topic for recommendation. Mays explained that many veterinarians approach vaccination recommendation with caution. "Strep vaccines historically have more potential for reactive properties than other equine biological products. Many practitioners express concern for an increased frequency of post-vaccination complications with Strangles vaccine," Mays said.

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Training should start right when the dog is brought to their new home.  Dr. Stacy Eckman, lecturer at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, said whether teaching a young puppy or an old dog, commands should begin right when the owner gets the animal.

"As puppies, they are quite eager to learn.  It may take a little patience, but start with the little commands," she said. "Even if you acquire your pet when it is a little older, many are still quite capable of learning basic commands."

The training should begin with basic commands, such as sit and stay, which are easy for most dogs to master.  Teaching these basic commands allow the animal to learn your training system.  After successfully teaching them basic commands, Eckman recommends teaching the dog heal, come, and not to jump on people.

"I think the most important commands deal with listening to your instructions and are for their own safety such as sit, stay heal, and come," she said. "Teaching them not to jump on people is also good manners!"

To train a dog, Eckman said it is best to use simple one or two word phrases combined with hand gestures.  Reinforcing good behavior and mastering of a skill with a reward is a great way to train a dog, she added.

"Saying 'sit' coupled with a simple hand gesture works well and reward them when they get it," Eckman said.

Another tip Eckman suggested is training the dog in a place the pet will not be easily distracted.  Instead of teaching the dog a skill at the dog park, for example, teach the task at home where there are not as many distractions.

"Have them master the skill at home or in a quiet environment initially before adding the additional challenge," she said.

If the dog is struggling to grasp the command, consult your veterinarian about the next step.

"I think all dogs learn differently and need different rewards, and that is where discussing with your veterinarian what your goals are is very important and they can help you in this area," she said. "They can discuss with you the methods you are using and the goals you are trying to achieve, then point you to a resource such as training classes or books that fit your methodology."

There are multiple methodologies used to train dogs, ranging from positive reinforcement when the command is followed to punishment and negative rewards.  Eckman said it all depends on the owner's beliefs and goals for their pet.

Training classes are another option many pet owners consider.  These courses are often offered at local pet stores and by obedience training facilities.  For recommendations on training courses, Eckman said to ask friends who have been to the classes and veterinarians for their recommendations.

It is not always necessary to send a dog to a trainer because many basic commands can be taught with patience and time.

"Dogs learn at all different levels-some just take longer than others to learn it," Eckman said. "Be patient and reinforce the good."

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One example of this One Health approach involves the work of physicians, veterinarians, and environmental scientists at Texas A&M University (TAMU) and Texas A&M AgriLife Research.  Dr. Jules B. Puschett, a physician and research professor in the Veterinary Pathobiology Department at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), along with researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Research, have developed an animal model they hope will lead to a way to predict and prevent preeclampsia in humans.

Preeclampsia, a pregnancy-specific disorder, seen in 3-10 percent of pregnancies, is the second leading cause of maternal and fetal death in the United States.  It is also a leading contributor to the most common cause of maternal and fetal death in developing countries. Presently, there is nothing physicians can do to predict, prevent, or cure this disorder.

Since there is no cure, the most common treatment for this disorder is bed rest until the physician decides whether or not to do a cesarean section.  If the mother and child survive delivery, the mother is at risk for having high blood pressure and diabetes later in life, and the baby has a risk of developing mental abnormalities.

Using a rat model, Puschett's team discovered an elevation in a substance in preeclamptic rats that can be detected in the first few days of pregnancy in urine and blood.  In conjunction with the discovery of this substance, these researchers have also developed a compound that prevents preeclampsia when given to pregnant rats with this elevated substance.  Currently, the team is in the process of collecting more data to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for human clinical trials.

The team found that an elevation of the substance marinobufagenin (MBG) not only indicates, but is a potential cause of the later development of preeclampsia.  A diagnostic test to measure MBG was developed in collaboration with Drs. Luc Berghman and Daad Abi-Ghanem from the TAMU Department of Poultry Science. After this discovery, Puschett and his team, who have been working on this project for six years, measured the blood and urine of human patients and found that MBG was elevated in those patients with a diagnosis of preeclampsia.

"Our intention was not only to measure MBG in the blood, but also in the urine because if we end up trying to screen thousands of patients, it is much easier for the patient to give you a urine specimen than blood," Puschett said.

Their next step was to determine when the level of MBG becomes elevated.  In the preeclamptic rats, elevated levels of MBG were present in the first few days of pregnancy.

"At that time in the pregnancy, the rats didn't yet have high blood pressure or an excess of protein in the urine," Puschett said. "So this is a forecast of the later development of preeclampsia in the rat."

With this discovery, Puschett explained that, potentially, every pregnant woman could be screened for preeclampsia through an examination of MBG levels in urine.  Once the team realized they could predict this illness, they decided they needed to try and prevent it, too.

Puschett approached chemists from the Laboratory for Innovative, Chemistry, and Natural Products-Based Interdisciplinary Drug Discovery (LINCHPIN) at TAMU, Dr. Daniel Romo, a chemistry professor and director of the laboratory; Dr. Jing Li, co-director of the laboratory and Dr. Xinzhong Lai, who previously worked with Romo; and asked them to create a compound that would block MBG's effects, thus preventing preeclampsia.

"The goal of the ongoing collaboration is to broaden the studies of preeclampsia in the Puschett group to investigate all possible predictive agents, which appear in the blood and urine of preeclamptic patients, in order to identify a reliable predictor which can be used to diagnose this disease at its earliest developing stage," Romo said.

The group discovered resibufogenin, or RBG, may be a compound that could be used to prevent the onset of preeclampsia.  Although it differs little from MBG, RBG binds to the MBG substance, preventing MBG's effects.

"Collaborating with Dr. Puschett, we have discovered a potential predictive agent (MBG), as well as an antagonist (RBG) to this agent, which can be used to prevent preeclampsia," Romo said.

To test RBG, the compound was given to rats in early pregnancy.  Puschett said the compound completely prevented preeclampsia, high blood pressure, and abnormal protein levels in the rats' urine.

Currently, the team is in process of gathering enough data and funding to present to the FDA for approval to start providing RBG to human patients.  Puschett said it would probably take two to three years before enough data is collected to present to the FDA.  After the FDA approves the drug, the human clinical trials for RGB will begin for pregnant volunteers who have elevated MBG levels to see if preeclampsia is prevented.

If RBG does not prevent preeclampsia in human patients, Puschett said there are approximately 200 compounds similar to RBG that could be evaluated as antagonists for MBG.  These compounds, he said, could be used to help in an effort to establish a method for "personalized medicine" in preeclampsia.  Personalized medicine is medication and treatment tailored toward the individual needs of the patient.

"We are now planning to broaden these studies to investigate other compounds in this family to identify additional antagonists to these agents, which can potentially prevent and/or treat preeclampsia," Romo said.

Puschett and his team also said they think elevated MBG levels could be a problem in other illnesses such as brain disorders.

For right now, though, the main focus for Puschett and his team is generating enough data to present to the FDA for approval of human trials of RBG.

"First, we are focusing on preeclampsia patients, then we are going to branch out to test the waters in other illnesses," Puschett said.

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Multiple studies have shown that dogs that exercise have improved bone health, and have improved organ and lung function. It makes them look better, feel better, and they are less nervous when left alone.

"Exercise is good for maintaining general health, and it helps keep your heart, muscles, and joints strong. It also helps with maintaining weight and their coordination," said Jacqueline Davidson, Clinical Track Professor at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

Studies also show that dogs lacking exercise usually have poor muscle tone, and are more prone to injury, brain ailments, and bone disorders. They are also more susceptible to developing emotional problems and behavior quirks.

"Dogs that don't exercise are usually overweight, have less dexterity, and their heart & joints aren't as vigorous," Davidson said.

"A lack of exercise can affect you and your pet in similar ways, like becoming chubby," said Davidson. "Obesity is a big concern for most animals."

Getting you and dog off the couch does not mean having to do a tedious and dreary daily exercise, there are a lot of fun ways to keep your pet and you active.

"For dogs the choices are easy, they enjoy almost anything you enjoy doing," said Davidson. This can include "walking, running, playing with a ball or Frisbee, agility training, and even such sports as canicross and bikejoring (i.e. running or biking with your dog attached by an elastic line)."

Sports like skijoring and bikejoring, while fun, can potentially be a safety issue, warns Davidson. "If you're doing anything like attaching yourself to your dog, make sure the dog has decent obedience training and responds well to voice commands."

The best way to exercise with your dog is to set a "date" with them. While generally playing in any way with your pet is good, dogs benefit most from a prearranged occasion.

"Running around the yard is okay, but it's better to have a structured activity where your pet is constantly moving," Davidson said. "This structure can also help with your dog's behavioral problems, like chewing, barking etc. because you are giving them an outlet to expend surplus energy and spend time with you."

It is also important to be patient with your pet. When starting a new activity or sport gradually build the time spent doing these activities.

"If the dog is sedentary and you expect it to run for several miles, or play vigorously for 30 minutes, injury may result if the dog is not physically conditioned for the sport or activity," Davidson said.

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at /pet-talk.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to cvmtoday@cvm.tamu.edu.

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