For most of her life, Winterfair has been known for her strength and reliability. The 19-year-old mare is not only recognized for her Fédération Equestre Internationale dressage career but for being a reliable partner to her owner Andrea Hart. 

Over the course of their 16 years of riding and training together, Hart and Winterfair have formed a unique bond, which is why when Winterfair began exhibiting some of her quirky behavior around her food, Hart wasn’t initially concerned.

“She was never one to put her head down and eat like other horses,” Hart said. “Winterfair has always been a little funny about her feed.”

However, that uncertainty quickly became more urgent as Winterfair began showing signs of colic, a serious abdominal pain. 

A Heavy Issue

Winterfair’s colic episodes came and went, ranging from mild to more severe, but they never fully resolved. 

Multiple veterinarians treated her for ulcers, a common and reasonable explanation based on her symptoms. Medications were adjusted, feeding plans were changed, and for a while, it did look like progress was being made; however, the relief never lasted.

“It felt like we were putting a Band-Aid on something,” Hart said. “She’d get better and then it would come right back.” 

As Hart began paying closer attention, what started as concern turned into documentation, tracking Winterfair’s eating habits and behavior. Over time, those details showed her that there was more to the story.

“If you don’t advocate for them, you’re not going to get to the bottom of it,” said Hart. “I knew there was something else going on.”

A Clear Answer at Last

By the time Winterfair was referred to the Texas A&M Large Animal Teaching Hospital, she had a years-long history of recurrent colic. However, when she arrived at the hospital, nothing immediately stood out to the internal medicine team. 

With a stable physical exam but a complex history, the team took a methodical approach, beginning with foundational diagnostics before advancing to more specialized testing.

“In a case like this, we always start with the basics,” said Dr. Rebecca Legere, an assistant professor of equine internal medicine at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS). “Abdominal radiographs are often challenging in a horse this size, especially in the field, and not seeing abnormalities does not necessarily rule things out, but at a referral center like ours, especially with her complex and recurrent colic history, they remain an essential first step in building a complete picture.”

That step quickly proved pivotal.

“I was walking into radiology when I saw it on the screen. It was a large enterolith (a mineral stone) in the colon,” Legere said. “It was one of those moments when everything just becomes clear.”

From Diagnosis to Recovery

From that point forward, Winterfair’s care transitioned directly into the hands of the hospital’s surgical team. Dr. George Elane, an assistant professor of equine surgery at Texas A&M VMBS, and the team confirmed that a large enterolith was lodged within Winterfair’s large colon, explaining the on-and-off nature of the colic.

“These stones act like a ball valve,” Elane said. “They shift just enough to cause intermittent obstruction and pain.”

Weighing more than 13 pounds, the stone immediately explained the chronic, recurring pain Winterfair was battling.

“It was a hallelujah moment,” Hart said. “We finally had an answer.”

What made Winterfair’s case possible wasn’t just a single diagnosis or procedure but the way each step built on the last. From internal medicine to surgery to postoperative care, her case moved through multiple teams, each contributing a different piece of the solution while working toward the same outcome.

“This is very much a team effort,” Elane said. “Everyone — from the clinicians to the residents, students, and support staff — plays a role in getting these horses through safely.”

After the procedure, the surgical team performed a full abdominal evaluation to ensure no additional stones were present, which is a standard part of a complex colic cases managed at the hospital. 

Winterfair recovered well under the hospital’s postoperative care plan, which included controlled refeeding, monitoring, and antimicrobial therapy before discharge.

“She did very well from a surgical standpoint,” Elane said. “Everything went as expected.”

Winterfair’s New Normal

In the weeks that followed her discharge from the hospital, Winterfair’s recovery became visible in small, yet meaningful ways. She has gained about 100 pounds, improved in comfort, and, most importantly, returned to her fun-loving spirit.

For the first time in years, Winterfair is eating without hesitation.

“Most horses just put their head down and eat,” Hart said. “She was never that horse, but now she is.”

For Winterfair, the answer didn’t just resolve a diagnosis; it changed her day-to-day life. After years of intermittent discomfort, the difference became visible in quiet, everyday moments.

Her case is a reminder of how easily ongoing issues can mask an underlying cause, especially when symptoms seem manageable at first.

“If you feel like something isn’t right, keep asking questions,” Hart said. “Trust your gut.” 

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Dr. Michelle Pine, a clinical professor in the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS), was recognized on April 24 as a recipient of the 2026 Presidential Professor for Teaching Excellence award, one of the university’s highest honors for faculty dedicated to outstanding teaching and mentorship.

This award is presented each year to two faculty members for extraordinary service to students in the classroom; faculty are nominated by students, peers, and college leadership. Recipients receive a stipend and hold the designation of Presidential Professor for Teaching Excellence for the remainder of their careers.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Dr. Pine’s recognition as a Presidential Professor for Teaching Excellence,” said Dr. Bonnie R. Rush, the Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine in the VMBS. “Her dedication to teaching and mentoring are highlighted through her innovative approaches in the classroom.  She is a positive role model, creating an environment for success at a time that is critical to their professional development.”

Pine earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri-Columbia as well as a Ph.D. in toxicology from Texas A&M. She joined the VMBS’ Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences faculty in 2006 and has served as director of the Gross Anatomy Teaching Laboratory since 2013.

In these roles, she’s been credited for her creativity and innovation in helping undergraduate, graduate, and veterinary students develop a strong understanding of anatomy, including through the development of interactive learning tools to support STEM education and to enhance student spatial reasoning. This includes her recent work in helping develop a virtual reality teaching tool, Anatomy Builder VR, to enhance student learning and engagement.

Outside of the classroom, Pine’s research investigates how pesticides, primarily synthetic pyrethroids, affect puberty and neurodevelopment and explores strategies to reduce their toxic effects.

Her innovative teaching and mentorship continue to shape the next generation of veterinary and STEM professionals at Texas A&M through active mentorship to undergraduate and graduate students; under her guidance, more than 20 undergraduates have gained firsthand research experience and worked to build skills relevant to their future study and careers in veterinary and biomedical sciences.

Pine’s commitment to excellence in teaching has previously been recognized through the Provost Academic Professional Track Faculty Teaching Excellence Award and the Eppright Professorship in Undergraduate Teaching Excellence.

Presidential Professor for Teaching Excellence awards are given based on the recommendation of a universitywide selection committee facilitated by Dean of Faculties Alan Sams, in concurrence with Provost Blanca Lupiani and Interim President Thomas D. Williams.

In addition to the April 24 University Academic Awards Ceremony, Pine will also be recognized on April 29 at the Transformational Teaching and Learning Conference.

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Dr. Amanda Davis, a clinical assistant professor in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences’ (VMBS) Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology (VTPP), has been named a recipient of the 2026 University Professorship for Undergraduate Teaching Excellence (UPUTE). The award recognizes faculty who demonstrate outstanding dedication to innovative teaching and a deep commitment to student success.

“Dr. Davis demonstrates her commitment to student success through development of interactive tools,” said Dr. Bonnie R. Rush, the Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine in the VMBS. “She teaches with compassion and energy, inspiring students to tackle challenging material and grow into confident, future professionals.”

“Dr. Davis exemplifies this dedication to excellence and demonstrates unwavering commitment and passion for educating undergraduate students,” said Dr. Christina Heaps, VTPP interim department head. “She is the truest embodiment of the qualities these awards seek to recognize.”

Davis joined the Texas A&M faculty in 2017 and has played a central role in advancing undergraduate physiology education. Her work has strengthened the core curriculum, enhanced learning experiences across disciplines, and inspired students to engage deeply with complex scientific concepts.

She also played a key role in the full redesign of a core physiology course for biomedical engineering students in 2022. Her updates modernized the course structure, introduced more interactive learning tools, and reimagined the labs to focus on hands-on discovery and collaborative problem-solving.

“Through Dr. Davis’ comprehensive course redesign and strategic revisions, the course has been transformed and is demonstrably stronger in both structure and student learning outcomes,” a nominator noted.

Students consistently praise Davis for making these courses both enjoyable and relevant to their academic journeys.

“Dr. Davis is deeply invested in her students’ futures, as she knows that they are future biomedical engineers, doctors, researchers, and more,” a former student wrote. “On the first day of class, she highlights how professions from medicine to law can benefit from physiology; then she encourages students to share their learning goals for the class.”

Davis also is known for her availability and mentorship outside the classroom, striving to provide students with academic support throughout the semester, no matter where they are.

“Dr. Davis makes herself highly accessible to students, holding both face‑to‑face and online office hours, ensuring that support is convenient and readily available,” a nominator said.

In addition to her instructional leadership, Davis has participated in collaborative teaching initiatives that extend the reach of physiology education beyond campus. Notably, she partnered with the University of Georgia to develop interactive cardiac physiology learning modules, creating an impact that spans nationwide and exemplifying the dedication of Texas A&M faculty and staff.

Her contributions to student learning have been recognized with multiple honors across the university. Colleagues note that her influence is evident in the confidence and curiosity she nurtures in students.

“Dr. Davis exemplifies the very essence of teaching with distinction and embodies the intent of the UPUTE awards,” a nominator concluded. “She inspires and guides the complete development of students, shaping them as both learners and future professionals.”

Davis’s UPUTE professorship is a three-year award recognizing her outstanding teaching and innovative approach to undergraduate education. The award includes a fund to support her teaching and professional development, and during the three-year term, she will also be involved in programs to help other faculty grow as educators.

“I am incredibly humbled to receive this award,” Davis said. “It has been a joy and privilege to learn from some of the best educators in physiology here in VTPP, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to our academic community.”

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Shannon Washburn, a clinical professor in the Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, and Sara Lawhon, a professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, were recognized for excellence in teaching.

The Distinguished Achievement Award is among the most prestigious honors presented to faculty and staff at Texas A&M University. Recipients are selected by a campuswide committee of faculty, staff, and former students.

The honorees will be recognized during the Academic Awards Ceremony on April 24 in the Memorial Student Center’s Bethancourt Ballroom. Each recipient will receive a commemorative plaque and an engraved watch.

Shannon Washburn

Washburn plays a vital role in shaping the physiology curriculum within the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. She guides first-year veterinary students through foundational coursework, fostering accountability, critical thinking, and professional growth as they prepare to become leaders in veterinary medicine.

“Dr. Washburn’s enthusiasm and passion for teaching are evident in her ability to inspire deep engagement and foster the development of lifelong learners,” her nominator said. “Her range of disciplinary expertise, combined with clear communication and intentional instructional design, creates a rigorous yet supportive learning environment in which students are challenged to think critically, connect concepts, and apply knowledge with confidence.”

In addition to teaching and coordinating large, first-year DVM physiology courses, Washburn’s portfolio includes foundational physiology, clinically integrated case-based learning, professional and clinical skills development, bioengineering physiology, graduate-level vascular physiology, emergency medicine, and international veterinary education programs. She played a significant role in redesigning the DVM curriculum by integrating case-based learning and expanding interactive, evidence-based instructional approaches.

By collecting and analyzing student feedback and performance data, she continues to refine her teaching strategies to ensure meaningful engagement and support for all learners.

“Every student pursuing a medical field hopes to have an instructor as kind, caring, and creative as Dr. Washburn, and if you ask other students who have had the privilege of being her pupil, they’ll agree,” said one of her former students.

Washburn earned her DVM degree from Texas A&M University and spent time in private clinical practice before returning to the university in 2010 to pursue a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and joining the VMBS faculty.

Sara Lawhon

Lawhon’s contributions to VMBS reflect a deep commitment to excellence in teaching and mentorship. She has developed innovative instructional tools and equipped students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success, particularly in antimicrobial stewardship education.

“Dr. Sara Lawhon is consistently recognized by students as an extraordinary educator who makes a lasting difference in their academic and professional development,” her nominator said. “Renowned for her ability to demystify complex subjects such as antibiotic selection, Dr. Lawhon employs a clear, approachable, and engaging teaching style that fosters a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

“Her commitment to student-centered teaching sets her apart and consistently earns her ratings above departmental averages in teaching evaluations.”

Mentorship is central to Lawhon’s impact, with her guidance extending well beyond the classroom through research programs and laboratory training experiences. Throughout her career, Lawhon has supervised 56 clinical and bench research trainees, providing individualized mentorship tailored to students’ professional goals, preparing them to become future leaders.

Former mentees have gone on to faculty appointments at Texas A&M and Duke University, demonstrating the lasting impact of her mentorship.

“Students frequently mention her genuine investment in their well-being and professional growth,” a nominator said. “She is approachable and responsive, always willing to offer guidance, mentorship, and support both inside and outside the classroom. This rapport builds trust and motivates students to excel.”

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Lawhon directs the Clinical Microbiology & Immunology Laboratory at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. She also has played a significant role in shaping policies and strengthening the DVM and biomedical sciences programs at Texas A&M.

Lawhon earned dual bachelor’s degrees in biomedical sciences (1991) and veterinary sciences (1993), as well as her DVM degree (1997), from Texas A&M University. She completed a residency in infectious diseases, earned a Ph.D. in comparative biomedical sciences from North Carolina State University in 2003, and completed postdoctoral training at Texas A&M.

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Many dogs experience moments of fear or anxiety, whether it’s during a thunderstorm, a visit from a stranger, or an unexpected encounter with another dog. While these reactions are normal, they can sometimes signal a need for closer attention.

Understanding what those behaviors look like — and how to respond — can help owners better support their pets and prevent anxiety from becoming more severe over time, according to Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a professor of behavior at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

Recognizing The Signs And Triggers

One of the most important things owners can do is recognize when something is different.

“The most common sign is a change in behavior,” Beaver said. “It could be freezing, seeking attention from the owner, shaking, trembling, or whining — simple signs, but they are changes from normal.”

Because these behaviors can be subtle, they are often overlooked. Even if owners notice these small changes, they may assume the behavior is insignificant, especially if it only happens occasionally.

At the same time, many everyday situations can trigger fear or anxiety in dogs. Thunderstorms are one of the most common concerns, particularly in regions where storms are frequent, but unfamiliar people, unfamiliar dogs, and new objects or situations can also create stress.

“Everyone thinks their dog should be fine with strangers, but that’s not always the case,” Beaver said. “If a dog is leaning back or avoiding interaction, that’s a sign they’re not comfortable.”

Recognizing both the signs and the situations that cause them can help owners better understand what their dog is experiencing.

How To Respond And When To Seek Help

When dogs show signs of anxiety, it can be tempting to comfort them immediately, but Beaver recommends a more neutral approach.

“Do not reward the dog for showing anxiety,” she said. “Be neutral. Don’t discourage it, don’t punish it, but don’t encourage it either.”

Over time, reinforcing anxious behaviors — even unintentionally — can make those responses more likely to occur in the future. Instead, owners should focus on observing patterns, including how often the behavior occurs and whether it is becoming more intense.

“If the anxiety becomes longer in duration or more severe in its expression, then it’s appropriate to ask for help,” Beaver said. “You can always ask, even if it’s very mild. It might get worse, or it might not, but it’s something you can follow over time.”

Paying attention to these changes allows owners to step in early, before the behavior has a chance to escalate.

Starting Early And Supporting Long-Term Well-Being

One of the most effective ways to reduce the likelihood of anxiety begins early in a dog’s life. Proper socialization before 12 weeks of age helps dogs become more comfortable with a variety of people, animals, and environments.

“They should be exposed to a wide range of people — different sizes, appearances, and backgrounds — and around other dogs,” Beaver said. “That’s when they learn what the world is about.”

While fear and anxiety cannot always be prevented, early experiences and consistent responses can shape how dogs handle stressful situations over time.

“Dogs, like people, become anxious in certain situations,” Beaver said. “The concern is when that anxiety becomes more consistent or continues to increase over time.”

In some cases, fear can escalate to the point that a dog panics and injures itself in the process, such as attempting to jump through a window during a thunderstorm. Long-term stress and repeated anxiety can also negatively affect a dog’s immune system and overall quality of life.

Beaver said owners should never hesitate to discuss behavioral concerns with their veterinarian. Depending on the severity of the anxiety, treatment options may include environmental changes, training techniques, behavior modification, or medication to help dogs feel more comfortable and secure.

By recognizing changes in behavior and responding appropriately, owners can help their dogs feel more secure and better equipped to navigate the situations that cause them stress.

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Pet owners may be diligent about routine care, but even a minor wound can put animals at risk for dangerous parasites. One parasite that poses a potential threat is the New World screwworm (NWS), a parasitic fly whose larvae infest wounds and can result in significant tissue damage if left untreated.

Although there have been no confirmed locally transmitted cases in animals within the United States since 2016, the NWS has been moving north through Central America since 2022, reaching Mexico in 2024. This movement has prompted veterinarians to encourage pet owners, and especially those who work with colonies of stray or other unowned animals, to stay informed and vigilant.

Dr. Guilherme Verocai, an associate professor and director of the Parasitology Diagnostic Laboratory at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers guidance for how owners can identify and manage the parasite, should it cross the U.S.-Mexico border. 

More Than Just A Scratch

New World screwworm, or Cochliomyia hominivorax, is a species of parasitic blow fly known for its screw-like shape. While the adult fly is relatively harmless, the danger comes when they lay eggs in open wounds.

“The female fly is attracted to wounds or lesions on an animal. It can be as small as a tiny scratch or a post-surgical wound,” Verocai said. “They will lay eggs around the edge of the wound, and, within 12-hours, the larvae will hatch from those eggs and begin feeding on live tissue.

“That’s really key with C. hominivorax,” he said. “Unlike other blow fly species, C. hominivorax requires live animals to survive.”

The adult fly thrives in warm climates, with activity typically occurring between 65 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit; these conditions are common across much of the southern U.S., raising concerns about potential spread. 

These flies, which Verocai describes as “strikingly metallic in color” — with metallic greens and blues and red eyes — may be confused with their “first cousin,” Cochliomyia macellaria, another species of blow fly that is more common in the U.S., but which is typically harmless.

“Adult C. hominivorax are not going to be seen resting on the animals like horn flies or stable flies; they’re typically resting in forested areas,” Verocai said.

How Fast It Spreads and Why It’s So Dangerous

Female C. hominivorax will lay a couple of hundred eggs around an existing wound, and within 12 hours, depending on the temperature, the eggs will hatch.

The resulting infestation can escalate quickly and become severe, as the small larvae eat and grow larger.

“You’re not going to have just one or two larvae — it can be dozens or even hundreds feeding on live tissue,” Verocai said. “And it’s not a picky parasite; although it rarely infests poultry or birds, any warm-blooded mammal is quite suitable as a host, if given the opportunity.

“Screwworms can infest all warm-blooded animals, including dogs; cats; livestock; wildlife, including, rarely, birds; and even people,” he said. “Cattle will be the No. 1 species affected, but what’s the second? Dogs.” 

Stray or unowned dogs and cats are likely at higher risk of NWS infestation for several reasons, including being more prone to injuries and not having access to veterinary care, including preventative medicines that may treat or prevent an infestation.

Because the parasite targets living flesh, it can cause extensive tissue damage and, if left untreated, may quickly become life threatening, depending on the location and severity of the infestation.

Staying One Step Ahead

Because early detection is key for managing NWS infestations, pet owners should watch for:

●  Visible larvae in a wound

●  Wounds that worsen quickly

●  A foul odor, often described as decaying tissue

●  Swelling or irritation around a wound

As a result, preventing infestation starts with routine care and awareness, which can include:

●  Checking pets regularly for wounds or injuries

●  Cleaning and treating wounds promptly

●  Monitoring surgical wounds that may be healing

●  Keeping pets up to date on veterinary care

●  Seeking veterinary attention for unusual wounds or odors

“If you notice anything concerning, don’t wait — reach out to your local veterinarian,” Verocai said. “Early diagnosis, confirming, and treating as early as possible makes a big difference.”

Because this is not a disease — it is an insect infestation — when the insects are removed, the animal typically recovers, especially if attention is given early.

It’s also important that owners keep their pets on routine parasite preventative medicines, some of which can be effective against screwworm larvae. Some medications that are not currently labeled for use as treatment against NWS in the U.S. may also be effective, and researchers are continuing to evaluate treatment options.

Verocai emphasizes that there’s no need for owners to panic about NWS, though these parasites cause serious issues. He points to resources such as Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s guide to companion animal care in the face of the NWS threat for owners who want more information.

For now, while the New World screwworm is not currently established in the United States, owners can continue habits that help protect their companion animals from this emerging threat — including staying vigilant and addressing wounds early.

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A livestock feed additive commonly used to promote growth in cattle, swine, and poultry may pose a serious risk to dogs, according to a new case report from researchers at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS).

The report, published in Veterinary Record Case Reports, describes two cases of dogs treated at the Texas A&M Small Animal Teaching Hospital that consumed ractopamine, an additive mixed into livestock feed to help animals such as cattle, pigs, and poultry grow lean muscle, which dogs may accidentally ingest if they have access to feed or storage areas.

While both dogs experienced similar clinical signs, their outcomes differed significantly, highlighting the importance of early recognition and treatment.

“This had not previously been described in the veterinary literature as a natural exposure in dogs,” said Dr. Sonya Wesselowski, associate professor of cardiology in VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. “Being able to document these cases helps raise awareness of what can happen and how serious it can be.”

In one case, the dog’s owners quickly realized their dog had consumed the feed additive and induced vomiting shortly after ingestion. The dog later required hospitalization for cardiac monitoring and supportive care but ultimately recovered and returned to a normal life.

In contrast, the second dog was found in critical condition after an unknown period of exposure on a rural property. Without early treatment, the dog developed severe cardiac complications and died despite intensive treatment.

“Because this resulted from exposure to a common feed additive, one of the most important things, for us, is getting this information into the literature so it becomes something veterinarians can recognize and act on,” said Sophie Tippit, a VMBS Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) candidate.

For pet owners, especially those in agricultural settings, the findings highlight the importance of keeping livestock additives out of reach of dogs to limit the possibility of accidental ingestion.   

The Effects Of Ractopamine On The Heart

When the dogs were brought to the SATH, both were experiencing significant cardiovascular effects, including abnormal heart rhythms and elevated cardiac troponin levels, a blood marker that indicates damage to the heart muscle.

“These cases show us that this particular drug overstimulates the body’s fight-or-flight system, essentially putting the heart into overdrive,” Wesselowski said. “When that happens excessively, it can cause direct damage to the heart muscle cells and trigger dangerous arrhythmias.”

The cases also revealed an important clinical consideration for veterinarians: standard treatments for certain heart rhythm disturbances were not effective in these patients.

“Typically, when we see ventricular arrhythmias, we reach for drugs like lidocaine first,” Tippit said. “But because of how ractopamine works, it wasn’t effective. Once we understood the mechanism, using beta blockers made much more sense and was more successful.”

Because ractopamine is commonly used in livestock production, the findings are particularly relevant for pet owners in agricultural and rural settings.

“Many owners don’t realize that these types of feed additives can be harmful to their companion animals,” Tippit said.

Because these exposures can happen unintentionally, prevention is especially important for pet owners.

“Wherever these products are stored, they need to be kept inaccessible to dogs,” Wesselowski said. “If there’s any concern about exposure, seeking veterinary care quickly can make a critical difference.”

Advancing Veterinary Knowledge Through Clinical Cases

The case report highlights how the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital uses real-world cases to expand veterinary knowledge and improve patient care beyond a single clinic visit.

“When cases come through our hospital, we’re focused on helping that individual patient and client,” Wesselowski said. “But there’s also a bigger mission — sharing what we learn and helping future patients.”

Because natural exposure to ractopamine in dogs had not previously been documented, publishing these findings provides veterinarians with new information that can guide diagnosis and treatment in similar cases.

“If they’re dealing with a possible toxin exposure in a dog that lives on a farm or ranch, this is something to have on their radar,” Wesselowski said. “Veterinarians should consider ractopamine exposure in cases involving unexplained arrhythmias and initiate treatment quickly, including decontamination and cardiac monitoring.”

The findings will also contribute to broader toxicology resources used by veterinarians, helping improve clinical decision-making in emergency situations.

“This becomes part of the knowledge base that veterinarians can access when they’re working through cases like this,” Wesselowski said.

The work was supported in part by the VMBS Heart Trust, which plays a critical role in advancing learning and discovery within the hospital.

“Sometimes there are additional tests that won’t change the outcome for a patient, but they help us understand what’s happening and teach our students and residents,” Wesselowski said. “The Heart Trust fund allows us to do that without placing additional burden on the client.”

In this case, the fund made it possible to confirm the cause of toxicity, ensuring the findings could be shared with the veterinary community.

“It allows us to maximize what we learn from each case,” Wesselowski said. “Even when an outcome is tragic, we can use that knowledge to help other animals in the future.”

To help support cases like this and advance veterinary knowledge, visit the VMBS Heart Trust at https://vetmed.tamu.edu/giving/opportunities/heart-trust/.

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Austin Warren didn’t always have a clear path to veterinary medicine, but he knew early on that he was drawn to work that challenged him to think differently.

“Everybody says they love animals, and that’s true for me,” Warren said. “But what really drew me in was the problem-solving aspect. You can’t talk to your patients, so it’s like putting a puzzle together every day.”

Now, weeks away from earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS), Warren’s journey reflects persistence, adaptability, and a desire to create space for others in a field where representation is still limited.

The Path Forward

After graduating from Lewisville High School in 2016, Warren began his undergraduate studies at Texas A&M, earning a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences in 2020. During that time, he was also a student-athlete on the track team, quickly learning how to manage a demanding schedule — a skill that would prove essential in veterinary school.

Like many aspiring veterinarians, his first attempt at applying to veterinary school didn’t go as planned.

“I knew my grades weren’t competitive enough,” Warren said. “So I had to take a step back and figure out how to improve.”

He enrolled in a one-year non-thesis master’s program in biomedical sciences, graduating in 2021. The program allowed him to strengthen his academic record while proving that he could handle the rigor of veterinary school.

At the same time, Warren expanded his hands-on experience across multiple areas of veterinary medicine. 

“I wanted to show I was dedicated to the profession as a whole,” Warren said. “So I worked with small animals, large animals, and exotics.”

At the VMBS’ Winnie Carter Wildlife Center, he cared for a variety of species while completing coursework tied to wildlife management and rehabilitation. He also helped maintain and build animal enclosures.

“I was in charge of an exhibit with a fishing cat named Fisher,” Warren said. “I cleaned its stalls, provided meals, and completed a project that helped improve the wildlife center.”  

Warren also credits mentorship from faculty members, including Dr. Alice Blue-McLendon, wildlife center director and clinical associate professor in the VMBS’ Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, with shaping his experience.

“She was very instrumental,” Warren said. “Having that kind of support made a big difference in my journey and helped me get to where I am now.”

That mentorship extended beyond campus. Warren later traveled to South Africa as part of a study abroad program led by Blue-McLendon, where he worked with wildlife in a global setting.

“Getting to see those animals in their natural environment and learn how wildlife veterinarians operate day-to-day was incredible,” he said. “It opened my eyes to a completely different side of the field.”

He said the experience not only strengthened his interest in working with a variety of species but also reinforced the adaptability required in veterinary medicine.

Choosing Texas A&M

When it came time to apply to veterinary school again, Texas A&M remained at the top of Warren’s list, a decision rooted in both the strength of the program and the opportunities it provides students to succeed.

“The curriculum is really strong, and the hands-on experience you get here is unmatched,” Warren said. “There are so many opportunities to work with different species and learn from people who are leaders in the field.”

Having already completed his undergraduate and master’s degree at Texas A&M, Warren said the familiarity helped him stay focused.

“I already knew the resources, the support system, and what the program had to offer,” Warren said. “That made it easier to hit the ground running and take full advantage of everything here.”

Growing Into the Role

Once in veterinary school, Warren said one of the most defining moments was realizing how much he had grown.

“You start off feeling like you don’t know anything,” Warren said. “But over time, you begin to connect the dots. You might not know everything, but you gain the confidence to break things down and figure it out.”

That growth helped him navigate one of the most challenging aspects of veterinary school — the intense workload.

“The analogy of drinking water from a fire hose is really true,” Warren said. “It’s constant — tests every week, nonstop studying. It can be overwhelming.”

To manage the demands, he developed structured study habits, leaned on study groups, and made time for mental breaks.

“You have to be intentional with your time,” Warren said. “You have to give yourself space to recharge, or you’ll burn out.”

Warren’s fourth-year clinical rotations took him beyond College Station, further broadening his perspective and shaping his interests.

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, he worked with aquatic species and observed procedures such as tracking device placement in sea otters, while assisting with animal care. He also completed a rotation at the Oakland Zoo, where he helped provide critical care to a rescued puma cub.

“Working with wildlife teaches you how to pivot,” Warren said. “You can’t approach it in the same way you would with dogs and cats, you have to think differently.”

Representation and Purpose

Beyond academics and clinical work, Warren has focused on making an impact through mentorship and content creation.

“The diversity gap in veterinary medicine is pretty big. Being the only African American male in my class, I felt like I could be someone who could be an inspiration for kids who might be on the fence wanting to get into vet med,” Warren said. “I wanted to be someone people could look at and feel like they belong here, too.”

Through social media, he shares his journey, offering advice, humor, and insight into the realities of veterinary school.

“I try to be authentic,” Warren said. “I don’t sugarcoat anything. I want people to see the real experience, including the highs and lows.”

One moment during a health outreach program reaffirmed his purpose. 

“There was this young African American girl who was there, and I was telling my story about what I wanted to do and why it’s important. I remember her just looking at me and saying, ‘Mr. Austin, I want to be just like you when I grow up,’” Warren said. “That really hit home for me and it not only touched my heart, but it reminded me that I have people who will look up to me in this profession and want to be like me. 
That’s what keeps me going forward.”

Looking Ahead

After graduation, Warren will begin his career at a small animal and exotics general practitioner in Austin.

As he prepares to close his chapter at Texas A&M, he describes the milestone as both exciting and emotional.

“It feels like the final chapter,” Warren said. “A&M has been such a big part of my life and my development. I’m ready for what’s next, but I’ll always carry this with me.”

Reflecting on his journey — from initial setbacks to earning his DVM — Warren hopes his story encourages others to stay persistent.

“You might not get it the first time,” Warren said. “But if this is what you really want to do, don’t give up. Just keep going.”

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Initially arriving at Texas A&M University to pursue a bachelor’s degree on the path to medical school, Samantha Hicks-Peña ultimately found her way to veterinary school.

Now, as one of the few in her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) class focusing on pathology, she is wrapping up a seven-year journey with plans to enter a career in research.

Growing With Inspiration

Growing up in Rhome, Texas, Hicks-Peña was no stranger to rural farm life. With medicine rooted in the family — her grandma in dentistry, her dad a registered nurse, and her mom a lifelong patient — a career in medicine felt like a natural course.

A strong student with solid test scores, Hicks-Peña applied to universities across the country and toured in-state schools while considering a potential future in both human and veterinary medicine.

“I was originally interested in A&M because of the BIMS program and the facilities in the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences,” she said. “I saw what you could do with a BIMS degree and was like, ‘I could do that.’”

Ultimately, she became the first Aggie in her family.

Part of her “medical motivation” comes from her mom’s diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2005. Having one parent working in medicine and another frequently receiving care, Hicks-Peña gained early exposure to both clinical and research environments.

“Growing up with a mom who was constantly waiting for the next advancement in MS research really shaped me,” Hicks-Peña said. “Because of the success that was made in developing MS therapeutics, my mom is still alive and well today.”

Finding Her Direction

Hicks-Peña began her freshman year at Texas A&M amid the COVID-19 pandemic and experienced the same challenges of remote learning and transition that students across the country faced.

Yet, she recalls the amazement of the size of campus and quickly realizing the importance of community and networking. That led to a job at the Student Recreation Center working at the climbing wall and, ultimately, joining the rock-climbing team.

Like many pre-med students, she initially focused on checking off the traditional requirements for medical school, but over time, that path began to feel misaligned — while shadowing in orthopedics, podiatry, and internal medicine, she started questioning whether human medicine was the right fit.

That realization became clearer after an experience observing an autopsy at the medical examiner’s office.

“That was the day I decided human medicine, clinical medicine, was not for me; I realized I wasn’t enjoying the process,” Hicks-Peña said. “Thanks to BIMS, I got advice on the boxes you need to check to become a strong medical student applicant, but I kept looking to see if there was anything that would help me find my ‘why.’”

From Pre-Med to Veterinary Medicine

That search led her to research.

It was through a genetics lab on campus that she learned animal models are used to study human diseases, and the summer before her junior year, while working with a veterinarian, she was encouraged to apply for training opportunities that also might support her veterinary application.

“I got an interview with A&M and saw that they had this new program called VERO (the VMBS’ Veterinary Education, Research, & Outreach initiative),” Hicks-Peña said. “It sounded like a good opportunity, so I applied and was waitlisted. I took it harder than I probably should have, because to me, that was a ‘no’ instead of ‘not yet.’ But it truly was a ‘not yet.’”

Within two weeks, her waitlist turned into acceptance into the program and she was able to  begin her veterinary coursework before even completing her bachelor’s degree. This shift marked a turning point, ultimately allowing her to complete both degrees in seven years instead of the traditional eight.

In veterinary school, she quickly chose to focus on biomedical research and pathology — fields she had grown to enjoy through her coursework. The connection between human and animal medicine, and the ability to impact both, solidified her decision.

“My first summer in vet school, I completed a 10-week externship program with MD Anderson’s Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, and I did my first pathology project, where we were trying to characterize a tumor model in pigs,” Hicks-Peña said. “It was supposed to mimic human liver cancer. I used pathology staining to try and figure out how the immune system was responding and making the tumors shrink without us telling it to do anything. From there, research really just stayed with me.”

Her work in both research and clinical settings continues to fuel her motivation, mirroring the advancements that helped her own family.

“I think I’m the only person in my class who has this angle on how I plan on using my DVM,” Hicks-Peña said.

A Future of Possibilities

Getting to where she is now was no easy feat but through the rock-climbing team, the support of her family, her husband, and her community, Hicks-Peña found a path she is passionate about.

After graduation, she plans to work with pharmaceutical companies in medical device research, helping design experiments, and ensuring regulatory compliance in animal research by supporting those animals’ clinical care.

While she is still figuring out where her career will ultimately take her, she’s eager to explore her options. 

“I’m still deciding if I would like to become a board-certified laboratory animal veterinarian,” Hicks-Peña said. “I may end up circling back to a pathology residency. I’m going to get out in the world and see where it takes me.”

As she prepares for the next phase of her career, Hicks-Peña is focused on gaining meaningful experience and deepening her understanding of where she can contribute most. Her training has positioned her to pursue multiple paths, each connected by a shared commitment to advancing animal and human health through research and discovery.

“I’m really grateful for the biomedical research that came before me to support my family, and I really want to dedicate my career to helping out families like mine,” Hicks-Peña said.

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The spirit of Aggieland rests in the people who have made Texas A&M University worth missing. 

For Kortney Lyle, this sentiment rings true, as the community cultivated through passionate pursuits echoes across generations that have called College Station home — even if only for a short time.

As graduation nears, Lyle, a fourth-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS), is preparing to leave the classroom with the goal of one day returning to support and teach future veterinary students.  

Discovering A Passion 

Growing up in Klein, Texas — just an hour away from College Station — Lyle was already familiar with Aggieland.

“Both of my parents went to Texas A&M and met here, which encouraged my older sister to attend A&M and graduate with a biomedical sciences (BIMS) degree in 2020,” Lyle said.

While her sister was in Aggieland, Lyle traveled for volleyball and became more involved in her high school’s FFA program. When she wasn’t spending time at the barn tending to animals, she was focusing on her veterinary medicine practicum in school, a field she was inspired to pursue by great-aunt Liz, who had also worked in a veterinary clinic since she was 16 years old. 

“Throughout the FFA, I had 12 rabbits, two pigs, a steer, a heifer, and some chickens; my dad and I got to do that together, which was a great bonding experience for us,” she said. “Twice a week, I also got to leave school early to work in a vet clinic in The Woodlands as a hospital attendant.

“I’ve always known I loved medicine, and animal care seemed to resonate more with me — and then FFA definitely solidified that I wanted to be a veterinarian,” Lyle said. 

Seeking Community In Aggieland

Lyle knew that the relationships her parents and older sister had crafted at Texas A&M were something she also wanted for herself. So, following in her sister’s footsteps, Lyle also pursued a BIMS degree. 

“The BIMS program is especially great preparation for anybody wanting to attend professional school, making the choice of going to A&M easy,” Lyle said.

Immersing herself in campus life, Lyle joined a Freshman Leadership Organization (FLO) and became  involved with Fish Camp, serving as a counselor for two years and also as co-chair. 

“Fish Camp brought me out of my shell and helped me understand my priorities and personality while building community and leadership skills,” she said. 

Lyle also became involved in research as an undergraduate. 

“I had gotten a job in an entomology lab on the main campus and did a lot of work with mosquitoes,” Lyle said. “I was responsible for going in and feeding them every day. I think the experience ultimately helped me a lot with being independent.”

All of these activities helped shape Lyle in her journey to attending veterinary school.

“It was my mom’s birthday and my parents had just flown into the Grand Canyon when they released the acceptances,” Lyle said. “I got to call my mom and say, ‘Guess what? Happy birthday…I got in!’”

Graduate Exploration

Entering the DVM program, Lyle felt grateful for her support team — which included two new roommates — but uncertainty soon followed.

“The first week of school was really hard for me because I had a lot of friends who were set in their specialty, and I had no idea what I wanted to do,” Lyle said. “Hearing all of them be so excited about their set path was really challenging because I didn’t necessarily have a clear vision of where I wanted to end up.”

Determined to allow her passions to lead her, Lyle kept an open mind. 

“My interests changed with whatever we were learning,” she said. 

In her fourth year, during which all DVM students spend a full calendar year working in Texas A&M’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), she fell in love with veterinary academia.

“It has been incredible to work alongside all of these people who are so smart, dedicated to their speciality, and actively dedicating time to research in order to help progress the field,” Lyle said. “In academia, you have all of these people who are concentrated in one area and you see them collaborate.

“Seeing the residents impact us through teaching really drove home that I wanted to be in an academic setting,” Lyle said. 

This desire has also been grounded in the strong mentorships Lyle has developed within the VMBS — from Dr. Karen Cornell, associate dean for the DVM program, whose consistent support and opportunities guided her, to Dr. Audrey Cook, her assigned faculty mentor, whose dedication helped her succeed.

“I hope to impact future veterinary students, whether they plan to go into specialty medicine like myself, or if they just take something that I say and are able to apply it to something in their life,” Lyle said.

Choosing A Specialty and Looking Ahead 

Although she had chosen academia, Lyle was still searching for her specialty — until a case involving a 120-pound black Labrador Retriever came to the VMTH with a herniated disk in his neck.

“The location of the disk made the procedure difficult, long, and intense, but being in there and hearing all of the neurologists collaborate and talk about how they were going to fix it was surreal and so cool,” Lyle said. “During the patient’s recovery, I was able to take a video of him taking his first steps in the hospital and send it to his owner. The moment truly brought a tear to my eye.”

Through additional clinical rotations, Lyle kept coming back to the intriguing cases and continued to be inspired by neurologists at the VMTH — especially Dr. Eileen Donoghue, a third-year neurology resident.

“I have a vision now, which I didn’t feel in the first three years,” Lyle said. “It’s very exciting and motivating to know I want to be a neurologist in academia.”

She hopes to one day conduct clinical research that will improve the lives of both neurology patients and their owners.

“With a lot of animals who have a back injury, their quality of life is very hard to maintain, so improving their ability to function has the opportunity to greatly improve the well-being of both patient and owner,” Lyle said.

Her next step to achieving this goal will take Lyle to Colorado, where she’ll fulfill a lifelong dream of living in the Centennial State, after matching with Colorado State University for an internship following graduation. 

“I love A&M, living in Texas, and the neurology service here, so I would absolutely consider returning if I decided to come back home,” Lyle said. “For now, I’m keeping an open mind, as I have been doing throughout this whole process.”

For anyone considering veterinary medicine as a potential career, Lyle advises them to embrace their differences and invest time in their peers, who will become their lifelong friends. For her, that combination allowed her to see how everyone’s journey is perfectly unique — including her own.  

“I would encourage them to stick with it,” she said. “If you really want it, there is a way to get there. I never expected to have that ‘click’ moment, but then it did. And it feels so good when it does.”

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