Vet Cetera 2013

The official magazine of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University 2013

Saving Franklin CVHS flies into action to help animals hurt in Oklahoma’s tornadoes

Healthy Animals — Healthy People

Vet Cetera m a g a z i n e

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences graduates competent, confident, practice-ready veterinarians — a tradition it has proudly carried forward since the day the veterinary college opened its doors 65 years ago.

Please join us at the CVHS website: www.cvhs.okstate.edu. The OSU homepage is located at www.okstate.edu.

Vet Cetera magazine is a publication of the ­Oklahoma State University Center for ­Veterinary Health Sciences. Its purpose is to ­connect the college with its many alumni and friends, providing information on both ­campus news and pertinent issues in the field of veterinary medicine Oklahoma State University © 2013

COVER: The animal survivors of the May tornadoes in Oklahoma ranged in size from Franklin the classroom turtle to horses of all sizes.

The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences was there to treat them all. (Photo: Phil Shockley / University Marketing) Their stories, Page 2.

18 S h a r i n g His Passio n Jim Lish has won the veterinary school’s top teaching award for the third time — all because he loves what he does and sharing it with students.

Jean Sander, DVM, MAM, DACPV Dean, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

22 A W i n f o r Patie n c e More than a year after submitting his application, Dr. Lin Liu has won an $11.3 million grant to establish a respiratory disease center.

Derinda Blakeney, APR

25 L ea v i n g t h e B uildi n g Dr. Joe Alexander (above center) has retired after 28 years with Oklahoma State University.

Heather Clay

36 Healt h A bou n ds From the dean’s office to the veterinary “fat camp,” people and pets are taking a turn toward health in the veterinary school.

Paul V. Fleming

6 0 Fi x i n g Fe r al Feli n es Operation Catnip Stillwater gets started on its mission of shrinking the numbers of community cats having kittens.

1 00 W i n n i n g A ll A r ou n d A program spearheaded by an OSU alumnus is helping rehabilitate shelter dogs and prison inmates at the same time.

www.c v h s .o k st a te.e d u

Coordinator of Public Relations, and Marketing derinda@okstate.edu

Sharon Worrell

Alumni Affairs Specialist Senior Director of Development

Dorothy L. Pugh Editor

Art Director / Designer

Phil Shockley / Gary Lawson Staff Photographers

Matt Elliott / Paige Vandaveer Contributing Writers

Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. Title IX of the Education Amendments and Oklahoma State University policy prohibit discrimination in the provision of services or benefits offered by the University based on gender. Any person (student, faculty or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based upon gender may discuss their concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with the OSU Title IX Coordinator, Mackenzie Wilfong, J.D., Director of Affirmative Action, 408 Whitehurst, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, (405) 744-5371 or (405) 744-5576 (fax). This publication, issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, was printed by Progress Printing Plus at a cost of $9,096.00. 5.3M/Nov. 2013/#4759

From the Office of the Dean This has been a year of great highs, with much to celebrate and be grateful for. Many of these points of success and appreciation are in this issue of Vet Cetera. I believe you will enjoy reading about our faculty recognitions, successful fundraising efforts, graduate student recognitions, staff celebrations and alumni impact. Our college even developed a new tag line that tells our story in four short words: Healthy Animals — Healthy People.

But the biggest story of the year is filled with very mixed emotions: the devastating tornadoes that hit central Oklahoma causing so much death, injury and destruction. The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences has been a part of the recovery efforts. As the storm went through Moore, I was watching the news and trying to think just how we as a college could help these folks by taking away at least one concern: how to care for their animals that were injured. My goal was to make things as easy as possible for the people by providing care for their furry friends. Fortunately, Hospital Director Dr. Mark Neer had been at Louisiana State University during Hurricane Katrina and had some experience on what to expect.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Despite the fact that the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is an institution of higher learning, we are expected to cover much of our own costs through fees for services.

My decision to provide free care was a risk. Fortunately, so many people felt moved to send donations that there were no resulting difficult financial decisions. But free care was the right thing to do.

I think you will enjoy the story of the animals we treated and the lives we made better with our efforts. And while we couldn’t save every animal brought to us, we gave each one our full attention — even those who had no owners. I wish to thank our faculty, staff and students who provided the medical care as well as those folks who We came together with State Vet- may have never heard of us before erinarian Dr. Rod Hall and his team but still sent money. We consider to address issues at ground zero and each of them a friend of the college to spread the word that the Boren forevermore.

Veterinary Medical Teaching HospiWe cannot stop disasters from tal would provide all medical care happening, but each of us can do to animals injured in any of the something to help. The college has tornadoes at no cost to the owners. plans to develop a program to train And once that was made known, students in crisis relief efforts. Tordonors came out of the woodwork. nadoes are not going away. My hope We received financial support from is that next time we will be able to across the United States — some in do even more and that our gradusmall amounts and some in very ates, wherever they go, will be prelarge amounts. The outpouring of pared to step in and ensure Healthy compassion warmed my heart.

Animals — Healthy People.

Jean E. Sander, DVM, MAM, DACPV Dean, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

For more on Dr. Sander’s dog Daisy, see the inside back cover.

oklahoma tornadoes

After the Storms

Stories by Derinda Blakeney

CVHS unites into a place of ‘Compassion in Action’

Devastating tornadoes twisted through Oklahoma from May 19–31.

Faculty, staff and students turned OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Services into a place of “Compassion in Action,” as a Facebook post coined it.

Dr. Jean Sander, dean of the CVHS, offered free veterinary medical services to animal victims.

“These people have been through enough,” says Sander. “The last thing they need to worry about is how they are going to pay for veterinary medical care for their injured livestock or pets. We are here to care for these animal tornado victims for as long as it takes.”

An OSU Animal Relief Fund was established for donations. The veterinary center wants this fund to become a permanent resource for any future disasters.

Detailing the Tornadoes May 19: A series of tornadoes affected Edmond, Arcadia, Luther, Carney, Lake Thunderbird, Shawnee and Prague. The most intense was an EF-4 tornado in Shawnee.

May 20: The tornado that hit Newcastle and Moore was classified as an EF-5, 1.3 miles wide, and left a trail of destruction 17.7 miles long.

May 31: The El Reno-Union City tornado was the widest tornado ever documented at 2.6 miles.

— National Weather Service Emily McCullough

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The Experts Dr. Todd Holbrook, associate professor and equine section chief, took the lead on triaging large animals. Dr. Danielle Dugat, assistant professor of small-animal surgery, spearheaded the small animal relief effort with the assistance of small-animal surgery lecturer Dr. Kelci McKeirnan. Any exotic or wild animal cases were referred to Dr. Cornelia KetzRiley, assistant professor and head of the avian, exotic and zoo medicine services at the hospital.

OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital treated 60 animal victims (some of their stories, Pages 4-14) in all — 22 dogs, 15 cats, 11 horses, four woodpeckers, two guinea pigs, two birds, one donkey, one potbellied pig, one turtle and one chicken. Of 23 strays, all have new families.

The Volunteers

The Donors

Faculty, staff, veterinary students and the new alumni who had graduated just weeks before rushed to help. Volunteers assisted with record-taking, physical exams, triage and transport. The more serious cases went to OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital.

The veterinary medical care was made possible through the generosity of more than 460 donors (list, Page 15) who sent in nearly $170,000 to help these animal victims.

To help reunite pets with their owners, each “stray” animal was posted on several veterinary center Facebook pages and other social media sites.

The OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is working toward being better prepared for the next disaster.

“We were able to reunite more than 90 pets with their owners,” says Emily McCullough, a second-year veterinary student who volunteered at the triaging site in Moore, where many animals were reunited with their owners.

“It was one thing to see the devastation on TV and another thing to see it in person,” says Jill Murray, a registered veterinary technician specializing in exotic companion animals.

The Future

“Being located in Oklahoma, it is a pretty sure thing that another tornado will hit at some point,” says Sander.

“We want to take this experience and learn what we can do better, what we need to mobilize our clinicians and veterinary technicians, and what training our responders need. We also want to be sure we coordinate with the state and federal agencies in charge when disasters do strike. We want to be sure they know what capabilities we have and how that can help them in the overall response.”

To support OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, contact Heather Clay, senior director of development, OSU Foundation, at 405-385-5607 or hclay@osugiving.com.

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Treating the Animal Victims The 60 animal victims treated after the May tornadoes at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital ranged in size from a classroom pet turtle to horses. Livestock, cats, dogs and even exotic pets.

Here are some of the stories of the animal tornado victims:

Ally Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Ally “When I left that afternoon (May 20) to go pick up our children from school, I never thought that I wouldn’t go home again,” says Genni Satterlee of Moore, Okla.

“Had the dogs been in their crates, they would have probably died because the crates were destroyed.”

Two of the family’s dogs and a bearded dragon were quickly found unharmed but it took a week to find Ally, a 4½-year-old Chihuahua, in the rubble that once was the Satterlee home.

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deep corneal ulcer. We brought Ally back to Stillwater with us. Dr. Margi Gilmour, the veterinary medical hospital’s board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, exam“Ally had wounds and cuts on her ined Ally. Her eye was evaluated, shoulder,” says Carrie McCully, and a treatment plan was devela registered veterinary techni- oped to address the corneal discian with OSU’s ophthalmology ease. After her eye was cared for, the service who was volunteering at small-animal surgery service took the Home Depot triage cen- an X-ray to make sure her shoulder ter in Moore when Satterlee was normal, treated her cuts and brought Ally in. “She also had a gave her some pain medication to get her on the road to recovery.”

“I didn’t think we would find her alive,” says Satterlee. “She was skinny. The amount of rain that fell was probably the only thing that kept her alive.”

Derinda Blakeney / CVHS

Abby

Eleven years ago, some guys at an Oklahoma lake were trying to drown a young chow and German shepherd mix. Moore residents Michelle Shepard and her husband rescued the dog and called her Abby.

Dr. Jonathan Pucket and technician Carey McCully pose with Ally, a 4½-year-old Chihuahua, as her family, including mom Genni Satterlee and daughter Payton, picks her up at the OSU Veterinary Medical Hospital. Ally was treated for injuries to her shoulder and a deep corneal ulcer.

“This was the first time we had been to the hospital and it has been great,” Satterlee says. “When I asked about the cost, they told me there would be no charge. Oh, my gosh. After all this and not to have to worry about the dog — it was such a blessing.”

“Before bringing him in, I called to see how much it would cost,” says Toni Whitcher. “That’s when we found out that his care would be covered by the OSU Animal Relief Fund. If not for that fund, we would have had to put him down. You saved his life.”

“Ally’s cornea is completely “Pup had bruising and bleeding healed,” reports Dr. Jonathan into his side,” reports Dr. Kelci Pucket, assistant professor of oph- McKeirnan, lecturer and smallthalmology. “She has a small scar animal surgeon. “The fluid built up that does not affect her vision and and was separating his skin from will probably fade in time.” his chest wall. We operated and drained 2 liters of fluid from the site and inserted a drain to allow Pup Chester Whitcher of Wellston, the injured area to continue to heal.

Okla., picked up a little brown ball I don’t know if he was slammed of fur from the side of the road up against something or if flying one night seven years ago. It wasn’t debris hit him, but he definitely going to stay with him and his wife, had something happen to him durToni; they already had four dogs, so ing the tornado to cause the injury.” he promised to rehome the new Pup spent a few weeks recoverone. In the meantime, they would ing at the veterinary hospital. call him Pup. Pup was outside on “This is the first time we have May 19. been to the hospital. It’s a phenomPup found his way home with enal place,” says Toni. a bulge on his side three days “I highly recommend it,” agrees after the tornado. At the Lincoln Chester. “We will be indebted to County Animal Hospital in Chan- you folks forever,” he adds as Toni, dler, Okla., Dr. Nancy John- Chester and Pup head home to the son (OSU DVM ’84) referred the travel trailer that sits on the slab case to OSU’s Veterinary Medical that once was the foundation for Hospital. their house.

During the May 20 tornado, Abby was blown into the house, which was damaged but standing.

“We spent the night in our house but Abby was really anxious and kept crying,” says Shepard. “I finally laid down with her to try to get her to relax.”

Shepard took Abby and their other dog, Riley, to the temporary kennels at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds. From there, Abby was referred to OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital for further evaluation.

“Abby had severe bruising that was probably caused by trauma during the storm,” says Dr. McKeirnan. “She also had an abdominal hernia that we repaired three weeks later. We wanted to give her lungs time to heal before we operated.”

“They (OSU) have been wonderful,” Shepard says. “Abby is doing well after her surgery. We hope to be back in our home soon where Abby can once again be in her backyard. … We are so blessed to have the wonderful people at OSU College of Veterinary Medicine to care for our Abby.”

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Derinda Blakeney / CVHS

Egor

Six days after their home had been destroyed, Jo and Geoff Humann found their beloved cat, Egor, alive in the rubble.

“We searched days and days,” says Jo Humann. “When we finally were able to grab him, he was in shock.

He seemed OK, but I wanted to be sure.”

Egor was seen at the Home Depot triage center, where Dr. Dugat was volunteering.

Memphis, an Italian greyhound, had to have a damaged portion of his lung removed. Owner Scott Ashpaugh took him home after a week in the veterinary medical hospital. With them is Dr. Danielle Dugat of the veterinary center.

Memphis “Memphis had trauma to one of ended up having to dig themselves his lung lobes,” reports Dr. Daniand their dogs out of storm shel- elle Dugat, assistant professor of ters, after the tornado. Their house small animal surgery. “We believe in southwest Oklahoma City was the pressure change during the leveled. tornado caused barotrauma to the Memphis, their 6½-year-old lung, leading it to rupture, impedItalian greyhound, survived but ing Memphis’ breathing. The difstill felt the impact. After the ficulty breathing caused his lack tornado, the Ashpaughs noticed of energy.” that Memphis was not acting like Dugat and her team removed himself. the damaged portion of Memphis’ Jill and Scott Ashpaugh

“He wasn’t eating and running lung. A week later, Memphis was around playing with the other able to go home. dogs. So we decided to have him After he was reunited with checked out,” says Scott Ashpaugh. Memphis, Ashpaugh posted the following message on the Veteri-

nary Medical Hospital’s FaceThe brick house where Scott Ashpaugh took shelter collapsed, forcing those inside to climb out through debris.

Scott Ashpaugh

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book page: “Just want to thank everyone involved again for all you have done for our Memphis. Glad he also helped other May 20 pets get diagnosed. You have touched our family when we were in greatest need more than words can describe.

Thank you for what you do and continue to do for our state.”

“He was severely dehydrated and weak but still alert and looking around,” says Dugat. “Egor had a light fever for two days, which could have been caused by upper respiratory issues from being out in the dust and the debris for six days. He wasn’t eating well so we gave him an appetite stimulant, which helped some. The fact that it rained is one of the things that could have helped Egor pull through.”

“We are so happy to have Egor safe,” says Humann. “We were able to walk away. You can replace material things. We appreciate so much all that OSU has done. This made us complete. We lost our home but our family is still intact.”

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Lola the cat was missing for four weeks after the storm, but the veterinary medical hospital treated her when owner Sherri King and her daughter Kailey brought her in.

Derinda Blakeney / CVHS

Lola

Tommy / Benjie

It took four weeks after the tor- small-animal medicine and surAs the storm victims streamed nado to reunite Lola, a gray and gery rotating intern. “In an effort in, veterinarians gave stray animals white 6-year-old cat, with the King to access energy, her body mobi- names to keep the cases straight. family of five and their four dogs. lized its fat stores to the liver. This A young male beagle mix was “That afternoon my husband fat accumulated in the individual dubbed Tommy when he arrived called home to warn us about liver cells, which impaired their June 1. the storm,” says Sherri King. “I function.”

“Tommy was sent to us from the rounded up the kids and the dogs Veterinarians treated Lola with Cleveland County Fairgrounds tribut Lola was nowhere in sight. We IV fluids and a feeding tube. While age center because it was noticed had to leave without her.” missing, she injured her jaw. Dr. that he had a severely fractured When the Kings returned to David Russell (OSU DVM 1997), femur,” explains Dr. Dugat. their demolished home, Lola was a veterinary dentist, examined Lola The break was so bad that vetand removed two damaged teeth. erinarians ended up amputating gone.

Egor spent six days in the rubble that had been his home with the Humann family in Moore before they found him

Egor

“When I brought her in, she had a yellow mouth and yellow gums, and she wasn’t eating,” says King.

“She feels better. She is not just skin and bones anymore.”

the puppy’s left rear leg. Tommy’s picture was taken and posted on numerous social media sites in search of his owners. Still, no one came for Tommy.

“Lola has gained about a quarter-pound a day. She is up to 8.2 pounds,” says Audra Blasi , a fourth-year veterinary student assigned to Lola’s case.

One of the posts caught the eye of Johnna Gonzales, an Oklahoma Department of Agriculture employee in the Animal Industries Equine Division.

“I love my animals and without OSU’s help with treating Lola, I do not know what we would have done since we lost everything in “She was scared. She was nothing the tornado,” says King. “I’m glad but bones. I knew Lola needed to to have Lola back. OSU has taken be looked at. Ultimately we were great care of Lola. Since Dr. Russell referred to OSU’s Veterinary Med- removed her teeth, Lola has been eating up a storm, even to the point ical Hospital,” says King. “ L o l a wa s d i a g n o s e d wi t h of ripping into dog food bags. I hepatic lipidosis, a liver condi- truly believe she will make a full tion,” says Laura Katz, DVM, a recovery. She is doing awesome.”

“When I saw his picture posted, something about his eyes got me.

My heart melted,” says Gonzales. “I have had a three-legged pet before so I know how versatile they can be and how much you can learn from them. I have a corgi named Muffin who will be 8 years old this fall. I decided he would fit right in at our house.”

“We kept calling for her. We carefully sifted through debris constantly calling her name,” says King.

“I searched in all directions. Lola had ear surgery and has very distinctive ears. Her left ear is bent over, and her right ear has a small notch in it. I would ask everyone I saw if they had seen a gray and white cat with funny ears. I put posters everywhere I went. No Lola.”

Still, miracles happen and four weeks later, the Kings were reunited with Lola.

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Derinda Blakeney / CVHS

Johnna Gonzales (right) adopted Tommy, who she renamed Benjie. With the pair is Dr. Kelci McKeirnan.

Gonzales decided the name Benjie fit her new family member better than Tommy. And the pup agrees.

“He struck me more of a Benjie than a Tommy. Muffin and Benjie play together all the time. Muffin doesn’t realize he’s even missing a leg,” she adds.

Ti

One week after the Moore tornado blew through town, a young Siberian husky was brought to the Home Depot triage center with fly bites on her ears and a very thin body.

“The Good Samaritan who brought her in had just fed her a very large amount of dog food,” Benjie returned to the hospital recalls Dr. McKeirnan. “She was in July to be neutered, vaccinated in shock and really didn’t look and to check on his amputation site. good. We decided to transfer her “Benjie had some phantom pain immediately to the veterinary medand would cry out at first,” reports ical hospital due to concern that Dugat. “We gave Johnna some pain she might have a twisted stomach.”

As McKeirnan and Dr. J.T. medication, and she has weaned Walker , a small-animal surgery him off it slowly. He is officially resident, drove back to Stillwater, off his pain medication.” they started the dog on IV fluids.

“I’m just happy to be taking him

“She started out on the van floor home for good,” Gonzales says as she signs the adoption papers. but ended up climbing up and sit“And Muffin will be glad to have ting on my lap after she began to feel better,” says McKeirnan. “She her play buddy back, too.” was such a sweet girl. I felt an instant connection with her.

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“We chose Ti for her name because it was easier to say and was the beginning letters from an Alaskan name that one of the ICU technicians came up with,” says McKeirnan. “Soon after Ti arrived at the hospital, she passed a lot of foreign debris, which she must have been eating trying to stay alive. She also required surgery to repair an umbilical hernia, which had suddenly become larger and painful.”

It turns out that Dr. Kelci McKeirnan couldn’t resist the blue eyes and friendly soul of Ti, a young Siberian husky treated after the tornado.

Nobody came to claim Ti, so McKeirnan took her home.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Cowboy

As Ti remained at the hospital to heal, McKeirnan bonded more with the dog. No one ever came for her. Even though McKeirnan already had two dogs of her own, it was an easy decision to make room for Ti.

Below: Robin Dziedzic, her daughter, Mari, and her son, Sam, meet Cowboy the guinea pig for the first time. Dziedzic was a teacher at Briarwood Elementary School; the guinea pig was to become both a classroom pet and fulfill her daughter’s wish for one.

“Ti gets along great with my other two dogs — one is young and one is older. Ti and Mya, the younger dog, are best friends, wrestling, playing and even sleeping together.”

McKeirnan recently took a position in Washington state.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“I am glad I was able to be part of the Oklahoma tornado relief effort.

I am also glad that Ti is settling in well in Washington,” she adds.

“She loves the cool weather and went from being a dog that hardly wanted to be outside to one that camps out in the backyard.”

Cowboy

A pair of guinea pigs, Cowboy and Elvis, were brought to the triage center after the tornado.

“Cowboy’s and Elvis’ cage was Robin Dziedzic, who teaches crushed,” says Jill Murray, a registered veterinary technician special- fifth grade at Briarwood Eleizing in exotic animals at OSU’s mentary School, one of the two Veterinary Medical Hospital. “They schools destroyed in the Moore were found about one week after tornado, has a 10-year-old daughthe tornado. Elvis had suspected ter who had long wanted a guinea pneumonia and internal injuries pig. Dziedzic heard about Cowboy too great to overcome, and he and brought her daughter to Stillpassed away that night at the Vet- water in mid-July.

“I am so excited,” says Mari , erinary Medical Hospital. Cowboy was just suffering from dehydra- almost jumping for joy. “Oh, he is tion and malnutrition but recov- really cute. Look at his little face and his pretty brown eyes.” ered quickly.”

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

During the school year, Cowboy will be Dziedzic’s classroom pet.

“I know Mari will be there to see him the minute she gets out of class,” says Dziedzic. “I think since we were all there for the tornado that it will be nice for the students in my class to have Cowboy as a friend. He survived the storm, and so did we. Each day we will have a special time where a student gets to do things for Cowboy supervised.

And that special privilege can be rotated throughout the class.”

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Carney horses

Amanda Nely of Carney, Okla., was trying to get to her horse pasture as the tornado headed straight for it. Snapped power poles covered the gravel road, and an Oklahoma state trooper wasn’t letting her through, no matter how much she pleaded.

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Then, “I heard one of my horses scream,” says Nely. “It is the most awful sound. It didn’t matter that I had forgotten my shoes. I ran a quarter-mile down the gravel road, jumping over live wires to get to my horse. Red, my thoroughbred mare, was running down the middle of the road, impaled by a board with one hind leg dangling. When I finally reached her, she stopped and lay down. I held her head and petted her until my neighbor could put her down, right there in the middle of the road.”

Nely would comfort one more dying horse that night, Abbie, who suffered severe injuries from being wrapped in barbed-wire fencing.

Nely would lose two more horses in the days to come despite valiant efforts by the equine veterinary team at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital.

“I couldn’t find Play Girl,” says Nely. “It turns out she was in a tree.

We used a tow truck wench to pull the tree down so we could get to her. Sir Frankie had a cut over his right eye and Admiral had cuts and bruises on his legs.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Minni

Dr. Todd Holbrook helped Amanda Nely (left) of Carney load her three surviving horses at the OSU Veterinary Medical Hospital. Nely’s mother, daughter and younger sister were on hand as well.

Joyce Axton works in the stu-

“I was so thankful when OSU called me and told me there would be no charge for the veterinary care.

In fact, I cried. I broke Sir Frankie myself. He was my first horse. I wasn’t sure how I was going to pay for any of it. Sir Frankie’s eye care alone would have cost more than $5,000.”

dent services office at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

She is one of the many faculty, staff and students who stepped up to give the four-legged tornado victims the new forever homes they needed.

“Frankie had a corneal trauma consistent with a blunt trauma to the eye,” says board certified veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Margi Gilmour. “This resulted in a pocket of fluid accumulation (bulla) in the cornea and a corneal ulceration. We treated him medically and used a third eyelid flap for about a week to apply steady, even pressure over the cornea in the hopes of lessening the size of the bulla.”

Blue. My husband, Larry, lost his best friend a couple of months ago,” says Axton. “Big Dog was 16 years old and for the last 16 years, he and Larry have done everything together. When I saw this Jack Russell’s picture, I took it home and showed Larry. We’re going to call her Minni, which means goddess of battle. I think it fits her because she has battled a tornado.”

“Play Girl had a laceration on her right hind distal limb that involved her digital artery,” says Dr. Chase Whitfield, equine surgery resident.

“She made a full recovery. Admiral had a laceration over his left front carpus, or knee. It was very close to the joint but luckily for Admiral, it did not enter his joint. He also is recovering very well.”

“She has become a very big part of our lives,” says Axton. “The ‘strictly outside’ dog that she was supposed to be has now become an ‘inside dog.’ It didn’t take long for her to capture our hearts.”

“We have a black cat named

Sambo and a blue heeler named

Minni is less than a year old. She suffered a broken leg that is healing well, says Dr. Dugat.

Derinda Blakeney / CVHS

Five long weeks later, Nely came to the OSU Veterinary Medical Hospital to take her three surviving horses home. Her daughter, younger sister and mother accompanied her for support. Loading the horses in her trailer, Nely says, “The veterinary care OSU has given my horses has been a blessing. I appreciate everything you have done.”

Joyce Axton, who works in the veterinary center’s student services office, meets her new dog, Minni, who was treated for a broken leg. continues

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Franklin / Hope

It doesn’t seem possible that

Franklin , a 2½-inch red-eared

slider turtle could survive the EF-5 tornado that smashed his tank and destroyed his first-grade classroom at Plaza Towers Elementary School in Moore.

of Avian, Exotic and Zoo Medicine Services at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital, delivered a new tank and turtle supplies to replace the ones destroyed in the tornado.

“We are so beyond grateful for all OSU has done,” says Tauscher. “We But a young boy and his dad are excited to have our turtle back. found a turtle across the street I guess we’ll have to change her from the demolished school and name to Hope now that we know brought it to the Home Depot tri- she is a girl. We thank the veteriage center. nary hospital so much for taking “The triage center wasn’t really such good care of her. It’s defiequipped to handle exotic pets, so nitely our turtle. She still does her we brought the turtle back to Still- odd little quirks and is so personwater,” explains veterinary tech Jill able. My class and I cannot thank Murray. “We posted the turtle’s OSU enough!” picture and description on social Starke media sites, hoping the owner One of the animals rescued folwould claim it.”

In the meantime, Murray deter- lowing the Moore tornado was a mined the turtle was probably 3- to 4-year old tan female pit bull with four white paws. Fourth-year female and named her Hope. veterinary students honing their “I chose the name Hope for two clinical skills at the veterinary medreasons. While working at the triical hospital called her Sally Mae. age center in Moore, I met so many “Sally Mae’s right front leg had people who had lost everything suffered severe trauma,” says Dr. and despite their losses, these fam.

“The injury had caused her Dugat ilies were moving forward with a skin to pull away from the bone, positive outlook and hope for the her bone was fractured, and there future,” says Murray. “I also was was severe muscle and blood suphopeful we would find her family ply trauma to the leg causing it to and have a happy ending for our be macerated and twice the size of little turtle.” normal. We had to amputate her A couple of weeks later, teacher leg to save her.”

Sarah Tauscher called OSU’s Sally Mae’s photo and story on Veterinary Medical Hospital to inquire about the turtle missing social media caught the attention of a young man who also considfrom her classroom. ered himself different.

“Since the turtle was found “Growing up, I seemed to have a directly across the street from difficult time fitting in,” says Jess where the school had been and fit of Oklahoma City. “I knew I Flurry Sarah’s description, we surmised it was different from the way I looked was her turtle,” adds Murray. to the way I dealt with the judgIn addition to returning the turment and bullying of others that I tle to Tauscher and her students, encountered.” At age 4, he was diagDean Sander; Murray; Heather nosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a Clay, senior director of developbone cancer that resulted in the ment with OSU Foundation; and amputation of his right arm.

Dr. Cornelia Ketz-Riley, head

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Greeting Franklin on his return to Plaza Towers Elementary School are (from left) CVHS Dean Dr. Jean Sander, Brayden Williams, Omalee Hare, teacher Sarah Tauscher, Kali Branson, Crisily Dixon, Annika Law, Karisa Drider, Xander Duncan and Marcus Norwood.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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2013 Oklahoma State University

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oklahoma tornadoes

“I remember waking up with one less limb,” says Flurry. “When I saw the three-legged dog’s post, I knew this was the dog for me. She stood out to me because she is missing the same limb I am missing. I thought that she needed me as much as I needed her. I knew I could offer her patience and understanding knowing she is going through some changes.”

“She taught me that unconditional love exists regardless of your past. She has more strength in her soul to keep on going. Because of the trials and tribulations she had to endure, I am in awe of her.”

“No matter what life brings you, there isn’t anything you can’t conquer with a little hope,” says Flurry. “Because someone or something may appear different on the outside doesn’t mean they are.

Starke is fitting into Flurry’s Chances are they are just as norhome with his cat, AWOL, that he mal as you and don’t deserve judgment. You don’t know where they rescued in December 2012.

“Starke brings out the playful- have come from. There is a reason ness in AWOL,” Flurry says. “AWOL we are all different — it saves the Flurry renamed the dog Starke. will stalk Starke and give her sur- world from being a boring place.

“I really want to thank the staff “I chose that name because in prise attacks. Starke takes it like a at OSU Veterinary Medical HospiGerman it means fight. Starke had champ. They often sleep curled tal.

Without them, my dog wouldn’t to fight to survive the tornado and up together.” be here.

They helped her so much. to learn to live with one less leg.

Flurry and Starke hope others Without their kindness and dedicaWe know each other’s strengths will learn from their stories. tion, there is no telling where Starke and weaknesses, and I am willing would be today.

For that, I am truly to do whatever it takes to ensure grateful.” her needs are met as someone else once did for me.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Jess Flurry walks Starke at Lake Hefner in Oklahoma City.

Flurry adopted the former Sally Mae after injuries she suffered in the tornado forced veterinarians to amputate her right front leg to save her.

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Thank You, Donors All of the donations, no matter the amount, made it possible for OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital to provide needed veterinary medical care to the animal victims of the Oklahoma tornados.

This list includes gifts received only through June 30, 2013.

OKLAHOMA

Nancy Acton, Sand Springs ASAP Steel Inc., Oklahoma City Judy Averill, Tulsa Kandy Ayres, Vinita Betsy Barnes, Tulsa Beth Ann Baysinger, Oklahoma City Stephanie Beauchamp, Oklahoma City Allyson Bockman, Rose Vicki Bowlin, Tulsa Lisa Jane Braverman, Tulsa Larry Cain, Tulsa Lorna Caraway, Norman Dr. Kenneth and Patricia Clinkenbeard, Stillwater Michel Coy, Tulsa Pamela and D. Paul Crawford, Bartlesville Margaret and Paul Creider, Tulsa Christina and Davin Cronin, Oklahoma City

Wendy Johnson, Sperry

Larry and Linda Sanders, Stillwater

M. Cynthia and Michael Johnston, Oklahoma City

C. Diann Sanford, Edmond

Pat Jones, Tulsa

Arrianne Scott, Bixby

Dawn Kemper, Tulsa

Janet Shell, Tulsa

Paul Kerley, Enid

Shari Rae Sheppard, Okmulgee

Charlotte Kincaide, Tulsa Patricia Lansford, Broken Arrow Maxine LaPierre, Norman Steven and Martha Larry, Catoosa Shelley Latta, Tulsa Donna Lavery, Tulsa Dr. D.J. Malone, Tulsa Gwyneth Mason, Oklahoma City John and Bonnie McAskill, Altus Matthew McClain, Muskogee Michelle McGolden, Noble Lexi Meiwes, Tulsa Bonita and David Milby, Perkins

Upton Shimp, McAlester Dr. Megan Smith, Frederick Pat Sowers, Vinita Donna Stephens, Stillwater Janet Sutton, Woodward Priscilla C. Tate Trust, Tulsa Dr. Ronald and Cris Temple, Edmond

Robert and Patricia VanTriest, Tulsa Angela Varnadore, Stillwater Jacquelyn Vinson, Tulsa Christie Watson, Oklahoma City

Karen Wilson, Tulsa

Tracy Duggan, Sapulpa

Renae Musick, Owasso

Laura Wilson, Tulsa

EagleEye Royalty Management Co., Broken Arrow

Brenda Nixon, Oklahoma City

Dr. Jane Wittstock, Owasso

Kelley Follis, Springer Jana and Roger Freeman, Enid Camille Fuller, Sperry Amanda and James Hall, Vinita Steven Hall, Tulsa Jacci Hamilton, Broken Arrow M. Elaine Hargrove, Oklahoma City Pat Heinemann, Claremore James and Carol Hersma, Tulsa Tracy Holt, Edmond April Hubbel, Oklahoma City Jan and Jeffrey Hunter, Yukon

Dr. John and Patti Otto, Norman Dr. Charlotte and James Ownby, Stillwater Mary K. Oxley Foundation, Tulsa

Janet Carpenter, Fremont

Cheryl Cirelli, La Selva Beach Civic Feline Clinic, Walnut Creek Quentin Clark, Sherman Oaks Cynthia Collins, Victorville Cindy Cruz, Bellflower Melanie and Stephen Ellis, San Ramon Megan Esaia, Buena Park

Diane WoodwardFrost, Tulsa

Janet Fournier, Walnut Creek

Joanna and Dennis Wulf, Broken Arrow Yoga Home of Therapeutics, Oklahoma City Richard Zalko, Ardmore ALABAMA

Betsi Phillips, Tulsa

Janie Montgomery, Mountain Brook

Barbara and Jerry Reeves, Tulsa

Jessica Braverman, Pleasant Hill

Foundation for Animal Care & Education, San Diego

Megan Burton, Hartselle

Dr. Robert Poteet, Tulsa

Marjan BentleyRodgers, Sunland

Lisa Wolfe, Tulsa

Sheila Pace, Oklahoma City Harry Poarch, Tulsa

Georganne Benesch, Livermore

Celia Vandegrift, Stillwater

Shelley Mullins, Ardmore

Sheryl Farlin, Broken Arrow

CALIFORNIA

Jennifer Behrens, Mather

Luanne Casillas, Inglewood

Betty Muehlenweg, Luther

Sandra and Dennis Noble, Edmond

Northwest Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association, Springdale

CDS East Bay Chapter, Moraga

Stacey Dawson, Oklahoma City

Jill Noble, Bartlesville

M.J. Lowman, Little Rock

Lisa Thomas, Stillwater

Mike and Susie Weeks, Oklahoma City

Lois Erickson, Collinsville

ARKANSAS

Benny and Kathy Cagle, Little Rock

Dr. Jennifer Spencer, Auburn Penny Turner, Leeds ARIZONA

Susan and Jacques Fuller, Lafayette Judy Gadwood, Burbank Kathleen Hodgdon, Gilroy Katharina Horton, Woodland Alison Knickerbocker, Walnut Grove Randi Lee, San Jacinto Jessica Loberstein, Concord Joan Malley, Valencia Christy Mangini, Pleasant Hill Mary Metz, Martinez Marilyn Morris, Walnut Creek

Animal Care Center of Green Valley

Ariel Mosbrucker, Morgan Hill

Steven Bright, Tucson

Tasha Padilla, Walnut Creek

Laura Robertson, Tulsa

Carol Elliott, Cave Creek

Pamela Paine, Acton

Elizabeth Rogers, Sayre

Danae Michael, Green Valley

Shelley Reeves, Owasso Linda and Ronald Remke, Copan

Jane Anne Rompel, Tucson

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2013 Oklahoma State University

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oklahoma tornadoes

Sandi Peters, Corona Mandy Riley, Walnut Creek Carole Rowland, Moorpark Cathy and Paul Schroeder, Corona Del Mar Patricia Shallenberger, Palo Alto Bonnie Sheren, Studio City Kimberly and Kent Smith, Pleasant Hill

Colonial Terrace Animal Hospital PC, Dubuque

Rhoby Rasch, Denham Springs

Elizabeth Jones, Tampa

Joyce Lathrum, Johnston

Tara Roussel, Gonzales

Dr. Alan Kardoff, Palm Bay

Courtney Abbott, Bel Aire

Sandra Langston, Pensacola

Marilyn Brown, Eastborough

Patricia O’Connor, Myakka City

Harper County Youth Rodeo, Attica

Dr. Jill Reed, Micanopy

Elizabeth Keating, Overland Park

Danielle Splawski, Woodland Penny Sprague, San Pedro

Denise Wallace, Clemont GEORGIA

Roger Ward, Acampo

Robert Burton, Athens

Zephyr’s Garden LLC, Santa Barbara

Shannon Childers, Warner Robins

COLORADO

Alpine Publications Inc., Crawford Drs. Kim Anderson and John Summar, Conifer Kristy Astry, Erie Auto Collision specialists of Greeley Inc., Greeley Juli Chavez, Wheat Ridge Margaret Cole, Larkspur Raelyn and Kerry Donahue, Wellington Ensign United States Drilling, Denver Jacquelyn Ferdinand, Denver Teresa Hayes, Colorado Springs Helen K. and Arthur E. Johnson Foundation, Denver Vikki Kourkouliotis, Lakewood Bryan Matthews, Canon City

Norma Childs, Harlem

CONNECTICUT

Animal Eye Clinic, Norwalk Iris Baldino, Sandy Hook Karen Baril, Harwinton Sandra Wright, Stonington FLORIDA

Appraiser Select LLC, Winter Springs Mary Berning, Middleburg Martha CampbellThompson, Micanopy Harry DeBusk, Bradenton Florida Veterinary Technology Association, Miami

C e n t e r f o r Ve t e r i n a r y H e a l t h S c i e n c e s

KENTUCKY

Cornelia Bonnie, Prospect Joy Champion, Cadiz Sara Collins, Lexington Ruth Ann Combs, Versailles

Courtney Crowe, Nampa

Derby Glass Warehouse, Louisville

Patty Kinast, Hayden Lake

Andrea Dunlap, Bedford Claire and Rolf Embertson, Lexington

Sharon Bregola, Elk Grove Village

William Fishback, Versailles

Joshua Hoskins, Urbana

Franklin-Williams Co., Lexington

Lakeshore Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club, Chicago Janet Milbrandt, Mahomet

Roscoe Village Animal Hospital PC, Chicago

Tara Vorhes, Colorado Springs

Amy Lockwood, Bethesda

Karen D’Ambruoso, Lexington

Kersten and David Sharrock, Idaho Springs

Linden Thompson, Thornton

Emilie Ubert, Topeka

Clara Spier, Newman

Stephanie Nosworthy, Naperville

Telluride Animal Foundation, Telluride

Carol Phillips, Marysville

Arizona Copher, Owingsville

ILLINOIS

Katherine Goebel, Simpsonville Grants Lick Veterinary Hospital PSC, Butler Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Lexington

Linda Sochnuk, Lombard

Hagyard Pharmacy/HDM Pharmacy LLC, Lexington

Karen Viater, Chicago

Traci Hughes, Lexington

INDIANA

Jamie Keller, Lexington

Stephanie Brandenburg, Lafayette

Jennifer McManus, Richmond

Eagle Creek Animal Clinic PC, Indianapolis

Teresa Pence, Lexington

Kimberly Esteran, Georgetown Drs. Gerald Hegreberg and Lynetta FreemanHegreberg, West Lafayette Mayhew Oil & Gas LLC, Mount Vernon

Seth Jason, Edgewater Kingsbrook Animal Hospital, Frederick

Sighthounds of North Georgia, Ball Ground

IDAHO

MARYLAND

Anita Gibson, Laurel

Deborah and George Payne, Ingalls

Linda Boggs, Lexington

Nicole Piscitelli, Smyma

MAINE

Patricia Hodgdon, Pownal, Maine

JoEllen McGranahan, Topeka

Catherine and Kelley McDaniel, Smyrna Barbara Orloff, Atlanta

Candace Stockstill, Pride

Cheryl Beller, Rockville

Margaret Bateman, Frankfort

Margaret Miles, Carrollton

Ruth Elizabeth Smith, Baton Rouge

Sherah McCurry, Topeka

Tim Hoon, Marietta

Randy Owens, Greeley

Kim and John Summar, Conifer

KANSAS

Noah Kitty, Wilton Manors

Thin Air Canvas Inc., Palm City

Casey Taylor, Concord

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Dr. Kathleen Harper, Tallahassee

Kate and Vince Prusick, Lexington Rebecca Seabrook, Paris Michele Skoog, Radcliff LOUISIANA

Sara Arceneaux, Carencro

Wendy McCready, Saint Leonard Gary McKee, Owings Mills Judy Seeherman, Brookeville Drs. Autumn and Adam Terry, Callaway David Wildberger, Eldersburg MASSACHUSETTS

Debra and Alphonse Calvanese, Longmeadow Yvette Cove, South Yarmouth Freda Driscoll-Sbar, Florence Dr. Betsy Powers, Hyannis Heather Storm, Hanover Michael Zmurko, Northampton MICHIGAN

E. Dennis and Marlene Bienkowski, Williamsburg Cynthia Fowler, Byron Center Judith Kirkeby, Dearborn Heights Holly Kistler, Marshall Linda Schmidt, Macomb MINNESOTA

Vernon and Iona Heath, Bloomington Lauri and Michael Henry, Rochester Linda Herrera, Minneapolis Sunset Ridge Equine Veterinary Services, Minnetrista MISSISSIPPI

Dr. Christine Eaves, Jackson MISSOURI

Michelle Begnaud, Duson

Dr. Ann Bosiack, Columbia

Carla Peterson, Attica

Gary and Elizabeth Farwell, Belle Chasse

Lisa Sisk, Thorntown

Elizabeth Carmichael, Lee’s Summit

Patricia Gass, Lafayette

Dr. Natalie Strode, West Lafayette

Donna Kulawiak, Slidell

Christian Veterinary Fellowship/University of Missouri, Columbia

Joseph Moore, Fort Wayne

IOWA

Brian and Janice Allen, Coralville

Katie Mistretta, Baton Rouge Stephany Monteleone, Metairie Terri Pratt, Marion

John Crossett, Liberty Shery Fetterman, Weatherby Lake

Dr. Francita Franks, Rogersville Elaine Kerby, Raymore Judith Spitzer, Novinger Vickie Underwood, Seymour NEBRASKA

Richard Buhlke, Juniata Environmental Direct Inc., Grand Island Elaine Menzel, Lincoln Lisa Van Stratten, Fort Calhoun NEVADA

Laura Conrow, Gardnerville James Hulsey, Henderson Bettie Jo Peters, Henderson

Francine Salemi, Bronx

Carrie Barrick, Rockwall

Aurora D’Amico, Arlington

Mary Wathen, New York

Patti Brewer, Dallas

Suzanne DuBose, Montpelier

NORTH CAROLINA

Jacquelyn Bankes, Smithfield Ferra Hoover, Mooresville Jacquelyn Lewis, Vass Dr. Melissa Magnotta, Winston Salem

Dr. Thomas Dowling, Hancock Amy Sintros, Alstead Jo Steele, Lyme

Karen Conyngham, Austin Dr. Jenna Crouch, Liberty Hill Dark Doll Paranormal, Austin Yvette Dobbins, Mesquite Kimberly East, Wills Point

Lucy Zimmerman, Warrenton

Sharon Vick, Wendell

Lisa Harville, Houston

Shelley Williamson, Concord

Heart to Horse Connection, Terrell

NORTH DAKOTA

World Vets, Fargo Beverly Coffman, Thornville Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund/ Lingner Gift Fund, Cincinnati Dr. Elisabeth Giedt, Chardon Barbara and Jim Glasgow, Batavia

Kim Finch, Dallas

Margie Horn, Houston Dr. Heidi Hottinger, Houston Dr. Laura and Scott Lason, Flower Mound Lone Wolf Photography, Kempner Drs. Lacey and Brian Loveless, Keller

Victoria Campo, Jackson

Terri Heffelfinger, Jeromesville

Constance Meredith, Bandera

Toni Mindlin, Dayton

Amy Metz, Webster

OREGON

Earlen and Donald Haven, Pilesgrove

Broadway Veterinary Clinic, Portland

Dr. Maria Iannone, Mount Laurel

Diane Graves, Beaverton

Alysse Jacobs, Hackettstown Raritan Animal Hospital, Edison

Jan Heaton, Albany Dawn Holmes, Culver Alice Jordan, Culver Kylie Kershaw, Eugene

Mary and Ray Arrowsmith, Albuquerque Pamela Bishop, Ranchos De Taos Margaret Keep, Las Cruces Andrea McEneny, Peralta Rosalynn Myers, Edgewood NEW YORK

American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery, New York Mary Bartholomew, Palmyra Albert C. Bostwick Foundation, New York Colonial Bloodhound Club, North Baldwin

Sandhills Veterinary Clinic, Monahans Dorothy SchuldJohnson, Garland

WISCONSIN

Cindy and Shawn Berg, Mukwonago Laurie and Gary Blum, Port Washington Leanne Fredrich, Burlington K. A. Gilbertson, Deer Park Hags on Nags Saddle Club, Milton Sally Keenan, Fond du Lac David Lando, Milwaukee WYOMING

Susan Lane, Saratoga Lauren Tibert Wells, Cody WASHINGTON, D.C.

Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Lisa Shenk, Austin

Britta Hild, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Allegheny Veterinary Associates, Pittsburgh

Dr. Cynthia Spanhel, Driftwood

Carol Jenkins, Parksville, British Columbia, Canada

Dr. Laurie Brewer, Stewartstown

Mary and Richard Traylor, Crystal City

Dr. Michael Finn, Pittsburgh

Donna Wall, Plano

Annie MacDonald, Bournemouth, United Kingdom

French Creek Veterinary Hospital, Pottstown

LeNoir Wareing, Dallas

Sandra Lee, Portland

NEW MEXICO

Dr. Rachel Perteet, Blue Ridge

Jennifer Shorts, Yelm

Kristi Silberman, Houston

Alice Lamoreaux, Creswell

Regina Zullo, West Orange

Leslie Palmer, Benbrook

Lisa Buell, Spangle Amy Kendis, Washougal

Wendy Craig, Hanmer, Ontario, Canada

Patty Valente, Stockton Dr. Jessica Wysocki, Ringoes

Stacy Moore, Dallas

WASHINGTON

Erika Belsby, Spokane

Shannon Serwin, Flower Mound

Patricia Sansone, Marlton Sarah Winzer, Vernon

Melvin Smith, Alexandria

Tamie Fiel, Canadian

Dee Anna Manitzas, Fair Oaks Ranch

Chesterfield Veterinary Clinic, Bordentown

Ryan Ross, Warrenton

Susan Murray, Raleigh

Donald Hardy, Cleveland

John Carnevale, New Egypt

Joyce Keeler, Dulles

Elizabeth Thomasson, Clinton

Kristine Bergman, Howell

NEW JERSEY

Betty Gentry, Williamsburg Susan Jones, Norfolk

James and Marsha Whitehair, Norfolk

OHIO NEW HAMPSHIRE

Caroline and Bryan Buck, Kaufman

P E N N S Y LV A N I A

Wendy Harvis, Chadds Ford Stephany Hayden, Nicholson Carol Kiefer, Washington Crossing Valley Veterinary Service Inc., Belle Vernon SOUTH CAROLINA

Mary Ann Wheeler, FLP, Tilden Dr. Melody Whitten, Wallisville UTAH

Barbara Middleton, North Logan Carol Sarno, Ogden

Elizabeth and Michael Krysztofiak, Aiken

Dr. Sharon Wilson, Sandy

Amber Massey, Travelers Rest

Susan Taylor, Derby

TENNESSEE

Sandra Epstein, Pawling

Patsy Newman, Knoxville

Indian Fields Animal Care Services, Feura Bush

Aledo Vet Clinic, Aledo

Mira Leibstein, Oceanside

Allen Veterinary Clinic, Allen

Nina Pusateri, Massapequa

Kenda Avery, Burnet

TEXAS

VERMONT

VIRGINIA

Lyle Margaret and Christopher Bailey, Warrenton W. Earle and Nicole Betts, Free Union Thomas Bryan, Richmond

2013 Oklahoma State University

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Genessee Photo

Jim Lish (left) receives his third Zoetis (former Pfizer) Teaching Award from Dr. Rocky Bigbie (OSU DVM ‘81), Zoetis’ director of field veterinary services.

A Fervor for Teaching ‘There’s just no downside to teaching,’ says 3-time honoree Lish

They might as well start calling it the “Jim Lish Class Teaching Award.”

Lish, a Center for Veterinary Health Sciences instructor, has won the school’s Zoetis (formerly Pfizer) Teaching Award — for the third time.

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“ If yo u l i k e t e ac h i n g , t h e r e ’ s p r o b a b ly n o b e t t e r p l ac e o n c a m p u s t h a n r i g h t h e r e i n t h e v e t e r i n a ry s c h o o l .”

— Jim Lish

It’s no wonder. The zoologist exudes a passion for animals and explaining them to students, an opportunity he considers an honor.

“I saw a flier there on the wall for a wildlife biologist,” he says, “and I thought, ‘Wow, I didn’t know they’d pay you to do that.’ ”

“There’s just no downside to teaching, unless you just don’t like to teach,” Lish says. “In which case, you should be pumping gas or something else. It’s not everybody’s forte, that’s for sure. “

Ever since he was a boy, Lish remembers being entranced by the animal life around him, whether it was in his own backyard or in the neighboring yards and creeks that his sisters, who raised him after the death of his mother (his father was a traveling salesman), would let him roam after he got bigger.

Lish has been the instructor of record for the large animal anatomy course since 2000. He also teaches a course in bird biology for veterinarians. And he’s been at the vet school since 1989, when he was hired as a researcher in a lab.

Lish came to the veterinary school from zoology, which he joined in 1971. He started teaching comparative anatomy in zoology as a doctoral student in 1980. Today, he considers himself a “displaced wildlife biologist with a zoology degree in the college of veterinary medicine.”

Of course, there are a lot of similarities between zoology and veterinary medicine. Still, he says, he’s the last person you would think would become a professor.

Never a dedicated student as a kid, Lish went to junior college after high school in Miami, Okla., but he didn’t do well. In 1966, the Army drafted him. He spent a tour in Vietnam and saw action during the Tet Offensive.

He was discharged in 1968. He ran a gas station for a while in his hometown. He later quit and went to the unemployment office to find work.

He devoured books on birds and other animals his family bought him. His brother took him hunting and fishing. His dad, who was also a naturalist, took him out frequently, too. He was especially fascinated by birds of prey. Naturally, when he saw the flier, he knew it was the chance of a lifetime, especially with his GI Bill benefits.

“I decided, ‘I’m going to go to OSU and become a wildlife biologist,’” Lish says. He returned to the junior college he flunked out of to get his prerequisites and surprised everyone.

“I went back to the same instructors and just set the curve in every class. They were astounded it was the same guy.”

Lish would later make the dean’s honor roll at OSU. Today, he says he “has the best job in the world and with tenure to boot.” He owns land outside Stillwater that he works with his wife, Lurinda Burge, a vet school virology technologist in Dr. Robert Fulton’s laboratory.

A painter, engraver and avid photographer, Lish puts thousands of miles on his Toyota pickup driving Oklahoma’s back roads in winter, shooting pictures of raptors and other wildlife. His office at McElroy Hall is full of his work. He recently donated many of his works to be sold as a fundraiser for a college student organization, the Zoo and Exotic Wildlife Club, and for a wildlife conservation organization in India. He also spends a week in October each year helping trap migrating golden eagles with his colleagues in Montana.

He uses his personal trials as a student to help his students.

“I tell them it’s really just a matter of motivation. I can understand if they’re doing poorly. There may be a lot of reasons for that. I know because I’ve been there. But you can sure turn it around. I’m a living example. I’m the least likely person you would think would ever end up in academia, quite frankly,” he says with a laugh.

Lish’s other accolades include the Regents’ Distinguished teaching award. “If you like teaching, there’s probably no better place on campus than right here in the veterinary school.”

MATT ELLIOTT

2013 Oklahoma State University

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Mason Reichard holds Holly, who has been in Animal Resources for more than four years. She has been critical to Cytauxzoon research in determining finer details on how the protozoan parasite is transmitted and how to stop its transmission.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Surprising a Researcher Reichard didn’t expect 2013 Zoetis honor

Even though Reichard is not “Dr. Kocan was well-known for studying parasites of wildlife,” says a veterinarian, he is interested in Reichard. “My doctoral degree and connected with veterinary is in veterinary biomedical sci- medicine.

Zoetis Award for Research ences with a specialty in veterinary “I like being able to do someparasitology.”

Excellence. thing that helps solve a problem “I have always had an interest in for a veterinarian or helps a vet“I did not expect it. It was a pleasant surprise,” says Reichard, an wildlife and am an outdoor person,” erinarian better understand someassociate professor in the Depart- he says. “While I was in graduate thing that he has seen in his clinic. ment of Veterinary Pathobiology school, my interest in parasites Through my research hopefully I at OSU’s Center for Veterinary increased and I just merged the am indirectly giving veterinarians two together. I knew I wanted to solutions or information they can Health Sciences.

Originally from St. Louis, Mich., be a professor; I just wasn’t sure in in turn give to their clients that will ultimately help their animals.”

Reichard earned his bachelor’s what specific field.

“I find it extremely interesting degree from Central Michigan But research isn’t all Reichard is University and his master’s degree that most people consider para- about. He teaches, too. from Northern Michigan Univer- sites a lower, simpler species when “I teach Veterinary Parasitolsity. He came to Oklahoma State in fact, they are highly evolved ogy I and a Wildlife Diseases for his doctorate and the oppor- and complex life forms. They have elective. I enjoy teaching veteritunity to work with the late Alan unique behaviors and adaptations nary students here at OSU. The that allow them to transfer from Kocan. one host to another.”

Mason Reichard, who focuses his research on parasites of wild animals that spill over into domestic animals, received the 2013

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people here are wonderful, and the abundance of parasites that are in and around Oklahoma make it that much better for my research,” he adds.

“This award means a lot. It increases awareness about the research program we are trying to build and what projects I am working on and how that can improve the health of animals everywhere,” says Reichard. “Thank you, Zoetis.

It was very much unexpected and gratefully appreciated. This recognition solidifies that we are doing the right thing to try to control parasites and improve the health of both humans and animals.”

Derinda Blakeney

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Pump It Up Researcher recognized for cardiovascular studies

Dr. Pamela Lloyd received the 2012 Regents Distinguished Research Award in recognition of her achievements at

OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

Lloyd, an associate professor in the Department of Physiological Sciences, was selected based on her record in cardiovascular physiology research and her national recognition.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to do the research that OSU and the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences has provided,” Lloyd says. “Without OSU’s support, I would not have been able to establish the lab and carry out the research.”

Lloyd joined the veterinary center’s faculty in 2006. Her work since coming to OSU has generated 10 journal articles and book chapters, along with 16 published abstracts and poster presentations at national meetings.

Pamela Lloyd received the 2012 Regents Distinguished Research Award.

Research in Lloyd’s laboratory focuses on In addition to her NIH-funded work on cardiovascular physiology. In particular, the the placenta growth factor, Lloyd is also worklab is investigating mechanisms regulating ing with Drs. Lin Liu and Myron Hinsdale blood vessel growth, and how those mecha- to develop an adult stem cell focus group at nisms are altered in disease. The research is OSU’s veterinary center. This project focuses funded primarily by the National Institutes on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and of Health. Recently, the lab found that lev- is funded by the Oklahoma Center for Adult els of a key vascular growth factor, placenta Stem Cell Research. The goal of the research growth factor, are regulated by reactive oxy- is to determine whether adult stem cells can gen species. This finding may provide insights be used to treat COPD, for which there is curinto how the levels of placenta growth factor rently no cure. are controlled in both healthy and diseased Altogether Lloyd has received more than blood vessels. $2 million in external funding, which has Several graduate and undergraduate stu- made it possible for her lab to study cardiodents, veterinary students and postdoctoral vascular physiology. fellows contributed to the success of the “The goal of our research is to better underresearch program in Lloyd’s lab. Current lab stand the growth and repair of blood vessels,” members include Rohan Varshney (post- Lloyd said. “If our research provides new doctoral fellow), Asitha Silva and Nabil information about how to either encourage Rashdan (Ph.D. students) and Jamie or block the growth of blood vessels, it could Smith (lab assistant). benefit patients with many different diseases, including heart disease, COPD and cancer.”

Paige Vandaveer

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Patience Pays Off Liu wins $11.3 million grant to establish respiratory disease center Resources, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, and EngineerThe Regents Professor, Lund- ing, Architecture and Technology), berg-Kienlen Professor in Biomed- three colleges from the University ical Research and director of the of Oklahoma Health Sciences CenLung Biology and Toxicology Lab ter (Medicine, Pharmacy, and Arts in the Department of Physiological and Sciences) and the Oklahoma Sciences at OSU’s Center for Vet- Medical Research Foundation. erinary Health Sciences, submit“The objective is to build up a critted an application to the National ical mass of multidisciplinary invesInstitutes of Health’s Centers of tigators and research infrastructure Biomedical Research Excel- to ultimately achieve research lence (CoBRE) in early 2012 for excellence in respiratory and infeca grant to set up a respiratory dis- tious diseases,” says Liu. “Respiraease center. tory infectious disease is the top global burden of disease. It is a pubAnd in June 2013, the answer lic health priority. The discoveries came: NIH approved a five-year that we will be able to research with grant totaling $11.3 million. It this funding will address this need.” is the first CoBRE grant for OSU. It was worth the wait for Lin

Liu, Ph.D.

“Dr. Liu’s leadership has shown what can be done when institutions in Oklahoma collaborate,” says Stephen McKeever, OSU vice president for research and technology transfer. “The National Institutes of Health recognizes Institutions participating in the excellence of the research into the planned center include four infectious diseases being concolleges from Oklahoma State ducted in Oklahoma and this University (Arts and Sciences, award will promote significant Agricultural Sciences and Natural advances in several areas.”

“It was a long time coming and we are excited to be able to move forward,” says Liu, who has a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

“Each project has mentors, sec- Programs review committee. The ondary mentors and external con- program involves 19 faculty memsultants,” says Liu. “We have core bers from 11 departments in five groups of experts to handle admin- colleges. William Picking (head of istrative duties, immunopathology the Department of Microbiology issues, and best practices for ani- and Molecular Genetics, College mal models and molecular biol- of Arts and Sciences) and Kenogy. The investigators from the neth Miller (chair of the Departparticipating institutions are top ment of Anatomy and Cell Biology, in their fields. We finally have the Center for Health Sciences) serve NIH funding to do exciting and as co-PIs. This grant represents meaningful work that will have an important step in building an a big impact on respiratory infec- externally funded interdisciplinary tious diseases research programs program on regenerative medicine. throughout Oklahoma, not just at Liu is also the recipient of a the veterinary center.”

National Institutes of Health The plan includes an internal grant funded by the National advisory committee of five mem- Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. bers and an external advisory com- This $1.4 million project entitled, mittee, which is yet to be named. “miR-101 Control of Pulmonary Reserve project leaders are ready to Fibrosis,” aims to understand the step in if needed to keep research regulation of the signaling pathprojects moving forward. ways involved in fibroblast proliferation and activation in idiopathic In addition, Liu has won grants pulmonary fibrosis. The study will for two more studies. help advance the development of An “Interdisciplinary Program effective therapies for IPF patients. in Regenerative Medicine at OSU” Currently, lung transplantation is grant was approved by the OSU the only effective therapy against Planning Grants for Establishing Creative Interdisciplinary this lethal disease.

Derinda Blakeney

The four projects that fall under the umbrella of the Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases are: Development of a respiratory syncytial virus vaccine by molecular manipulation of the viral matrix protein under

project leader Tom Oomens, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, OSU A novel tissue-equivalent respiratory model to study airway reactivity to infectious agents under project leader

Heather Fahlenkamp, School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology, OSU Control of lung inflammation by a TLR4-interacting SP-A-derived peptide under project leader Shanjana Awasthi,

Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, OUHSC Neutrophil-mediated acute lung injury in influenza virus pneumonia under project leader Telugu Narasaraju,

Department of Physiological Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, OSU

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“ W e f i n a l ly h av e t h e NIH fu n d i n g to d o e xc i t i n g a n d m e a n i n g fu l wo r k t h at w i l l h av e a b i g i m pac t o n r e s p i r ato r y infectious diseases research programs throughout O k l a h o m a .”

— Dr. Lin Liu

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A Fond Farewell After 28 years, Dr. Joe Alexander has left the OSU campus

“Dr. Alexander was the youngest dean to serve the college, but his energy, excitement and tireless work ethic were contagious. I gained a great respect and admiration for his leadership ability, which gave the college direction and a vision for growth. I wish him all the best in his retirement.”

— Marilyn Wilson, former fiscal affairs director for the veterinary center

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C e n t e r f o r Ve t e r i n a r y H e a l t h S c i e n c e s

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Dr. Joe Alexander , who led the College of Veterinary Medicine

as its longest-serving dean from 1985 to 2001, retired from OSU this year. The veterinary center held a reception in his honor.

Derinda Blakeney, the center’s public relations and marketing coordinator, sat down with Dr. Alexander for a one-on-one visit.

When did you first come to Oklahoma State University?

I came in May 1985 to be the dean of the veterinary college.

What interested you about being dean of the veterinary college?

At the time, I was a department head and director of the teaching hospital at Virginia Tech. Then OSU President Larry Boger called saying I had been nominated to be dean of the school. I thought he had the wrong number.

I was fortunate enough to be selected to come for an interview. I really liked everything I saw about Oklahoma State.

The university itself was very similar to other universities I had been at. A landgrant institution, the service program was very important to the people of Oklahoma. This is an agricultural state.

They need a veterinary college — a good veterinary college. You could tell that a lot of people in the state took great pride in the veterinary school.

I was very impressed with the faculty.

It was a small faculty, and we were never the best-funded place in the country, but the faculty had a ‘can-do’ attitude and they were committed to turning out quality veterinarians. I am a small-town person, and Stillwater just really fit the bill.

Dr. Joe Alexander and his wife, Cynthia, accept a retirement gift from current CVHS Dean Dr. Jean Sander (left).

Looking back over your 16-year tenure as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, what do you think were your greatest accomplishments?

The accomplishment I am most proud of is the Endowed Chairs Program. When I left the dean’s office, we had more money in endowed chairs than any other college on the campus.

I felt those endowed chairs allowed us to recruit and retain many people who are still here and I think are some of the finest faculty, not just at the veterinary school, but Oklahoma State University. And I look back at that with pride because their accomplishments will live on for a long, long time.

Anything you would go back and do differently?

There are lots of things you would go back and do differently. When I came here, I had been a department head but never had been a dean. I am sure I made lots of mistakes and misjudgments along the way. I was very fortunate to have had a wonderful associate dean in J. Mack Oyler. Dr. Oyler had lots of experience.

He had been associate dean at several institutions and really provided guidance for me. And I had a wonderful financial director in Marilyn Wilson.

They were the people who, when I got off course, helped me get back on course. continues

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“Upon Dr. Alexander’s arrival, the university supported his request to construct the veterinary center’s library.

This freed up space for the remodeling of two new classrooms formerly occupied by the library. He also acquired funds for new faculty positions devoted entirely to research.

From a personal prospective, my endowed chair came from his efforts years before as he built the endowed chair program.”

— Robert Fulton, DVM, Ph.D., Regents Professor and McCasland Foundation Endowed Chair for Food Animal Research in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology

Any thoughts on where you would like to see the veterinary college move toward in the next five years?

I would hope that the veterinary school would continue its commitment to training quality students, that it would continue to expand the offerings that the public needs but aren’t able to get in the private sector for lots of reasons. Maybe it’s the cost of the equipment. Maybe it’s the expertise of the faculty that you need. But most of all, I’d like the school to continue to recruit highquality faculty who have the credentials and the commitment to keep this school in the forefront.

What are your plans for retirement?

As you think of your career and specifically the time you spent at the veterinary college, what do you want to be remembered for?

I would like to be remembered for being someone who was committed to trying to grow the university, grow the veterinary school and establish us as one of the premier institutions in the Midwest.

I hope to be known for a school that was committed to teaching and turning out quality students and a faculty who looked to do cutting-edge research — research that was specifically going to focus on the animal industries of Oklahoma — and for a teaching hospital that was viewed as one of the finest in the country.

Well, I had planned to retire to my thoroughbred horse farm but fortunately for me, I met a group of wonderful people, and I have become an investor. We are building a new retirement community here in Stillwater and, at least for a while, I am going to be the executive director of that facility.

Anything else you would like to share with the veterinary college alumni, donors and friends?

What I would like is for them to continue to support the college. Oklahoma is a wonderful state, but we are also a state that is not well blessed financially.

The college cannot exist on state funds.

It is going to have to have the support of our friends and supporters in the private sector. I hope that they will continue to be generous with their contributions, that we will continue to have a wonderful facility, that we will have a premier teaching hospital and that we will all be committed to providing the equipment, the facilities, the core faculty and the funding to turn out some of the best research in the nation. continues

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Dr. Alexander greets Dr. Roger Panciera during his retirement reception.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“Joe and I became good friends during my deanship at Kansas State University. I have enjoyed Joe’s gregarious personality and keen sense of humor.

And his ability to get his hands on your wallet! Joe’s legacy as dean of veterinary medicine is found in the highly successful endowed chairs program (which he implemented), his emphasis on specialty credentials for clinical faculty, his diligence to develop college research facilities, and the implementation of a competitive research program.”

— Michael Lorenz, DVM, Regents Service Professor, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Ballad of Dean Joe ’ Tw a s 1 9 47, t h e C o l d Wa r b e g a n , Tr u m a n w a s pr e s . w i t h h i s Po i nt Fo u r Pl a n .

B a b y b o o m e r s b e g a n c o m i ng , l i k e a pl a g u e , l i k e m a d , L i t t l e Jo e w a s on e , a nd t h e y s ay a f i n e l a d .

He g r e w s t r ong a nd s m a r t , a nd on e d ay h e w o u l d s ay, T h i n k I ’ l l b e a v e t a nd l e a r n h ow t o s p ay.

S o o f f h e w e nt on h i s no bl e e nd e av or, To s av e a l l t h e b e a s t s; t h o u g ht h e ’ d d o i t f or e v e r.

S o C S U c a l l e d a nd s a i d c o m e s t u d y, Yo u’ l l b e a v e t — a n a n i m a l ’s b u d d y.

He c onq u e r e d s u r g e r y, m i c r o , p a t h o l o g y A n e s t h e t i c s , p a lp a t i on a nd e v e n v i r o l o g y.

Bu t s u r g e r y w a s n e a t , g r o o v y a nd h ip .

A r e s i d e n c y ’s f or h i m , t o C or n e l l h e w o u l d t r ip .

Bu t a f t e r y e a r s w i t h s c a lp e l , m a s k , g ow n , Big Jo e g o t t i r e d , a nd h e s t a r t e d t o f r ow n .

“Dr. Alexander initiated and helped build the endowed chair and professorship program in the College of Veterinary Medicine as well as in the university as a whole.

He realized that ‘people gave money to people’ and developed those essential relationships with prospective donors. His leadership role in this endeavor strengthened OSU tremendously.”

— Kenneth Bartels, DVM, professor, McCasland Professorship in Biomedical Laser Surgery and Kerr Foundation Endowed Chair, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences

T h e n on c e w h i l e r e m o v i ng a n e o pl a s t i c s pl e e n , O u r h e r o w a s e n l ig ht e n e d — s a i d , “ T h i n k I ’ l l b e a d e a n .” ’ C a u s e d e a n s a r e i n c h a r g e , t h e y m a k e b u c k s a nd h av e f u n , T h e y d on’ t s w e a t u nd e r l ig ht s t h a t a r e h o t a s t h e s u n .

S o h e w e nt t o O k l a h o m a du r i ng t h e ’ 8 0 s b u s t , He a r r i v e d w h e n t h e b u d g e t w a s t u r n i ng t o du s t .

D e a n Jo e w a s p e r s i s t e nt , f o u nd a d onor or t w o , I mpr e s s e d pr e s i d e nt s a nd l e g i s l a t or s , t o n a m e on l y a f e w.

A nd t h e c o l l e g e h a s f l o u r i s h e d up t o t h i s d a t e , W i t h l i t t l e h e lp f r o m t h e g o v e r n or or r e s t o f t h e s t a t e .

N ow t o d ay D e a n Jo e i s h a l f a c e nt u r y o l d .

T h e b o o m e r s a r e m a t u r i ng , t h e i r y e a r s t u r n i ng g o l d .

Bu t I w on’ t h a r a s s Jo e , no t a c u t d ow n i s f o u nd , He ’s d on e a g o o d j o b f or t h e c o l l e g e a l l a r o u nd .

I ’ l l on l y s i ng pr a i s e s , I c a n’ t t e l l a l i e , A f t e r a l l , I t u r n 5 0 a t t h e e nd o f Ju l y.

A .W. C o n f e r , J a n . 2 2 , 1 9 9 7

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Danielle Dugat , DVM, MS, was promoted from lecturer to assistant professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences. Dr. Dugat is a diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and works in small-animal surgery. She holds DVM and master’s degrees from OSU. Her research interests focus on intramedullary arterial density of the feline tibia and implications in fracture healing and canine intervertebral disk disease.

Lyndi Gilliam , DVM, Ph.D., was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor with tenure. Dr. Gilliam is a diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine — Large Animal in the equine section of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

She earned her DVM degree from OSU in 2001 and her doctorate in 2012. In addition to teaching students, training interns and residents, and treating client horses, her research interests include investigating the effects of rattlesnake venom in horses (the focus of her Ph.D. dissertation), equine herpes virus and using research to solve common clinical problems and diseases.

Faculty promotions announced Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Margi Gilmour , DVM, was promoted from associate professor to professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

Dr. Gilmour is a diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. She joined OSU in 2001 to teach veterinary students, see client animals at the Veterinary Medical Hospital and pursue research in various areas of veterinary ophthalmology including Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration, the effect of non-steroidal drugs on intraocular inflammation in dogs, and fungal corneal disease in horses.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Myron Hinsdale , DVM, Ph.D., was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor with tenure. Dr. Hinsdale, who also holds a doctorate, leads a research team in the Department of Physiological Sciences. Studies focus on proteins found outside of cells and on their surfaces that control how the cell perceives its environment.

These proteins are important in controlling the cell’s behavior, what type of cell it thinks it is and its location within a tissue, which are important in diseases such as inflammation and cancer.

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Holyoak accepts department head position Dr. G. Reed Holyoak has accepted the position of department head

of veterinary clinical sciences after serving as the interim department head.

Holyoak serves as the director of the center’s Veterinary Medicine Ranch and holds the Bullock Professorship in Equine Theriogenology. A diplomate in the American College of Theriogenologists, he is also a certified veterinary acupuncturist.

Why veterinary medicine?

“When I was just a boy, around 5 years old, my dad would work the swing shift at a lumber mill. As he left for work, he would tell me that I was the man of the house. I believed him and took this role very seriously.

One day, a first calf heifer was having trouble delivering. My mother and 9-year-old sister, neither one very big in size, were trying to pull the calf. Even though my sister ran to call the neighbor (who was miles away) for help, I watched the calf die and tears run down my mother’s cheeks. I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian to help prevent that type of loss.”

Although Holyoak knew what he wanted as a career, some of his teachers were not encouraging. Still he A native of St. Ignatius, Mont., made it: “And I succeeded because what former teachers and a college adviser didn’t take into account was he was raised on a commercial beef that I would work harder to make up the difference.” cattle and registered quarter horse Why Oklahoma State? ranch. He earned his DVM degree “I pursued a job at OSU because of the graduates that I knew. I was really impressed with them.” from Washington State University Holyoak joined the veterinary center as a theriogenologist (animal reproduction specialist) in 1999. Previand a Ph.D. in veterinary science ously, the position had a strong food animal theriogenology focus. But Holyoak was asked to work with all from the University of Kentucky. species. Soon after, he added overseeing the Vet Med Ranch to his list of responsibilities. While he will conHolyoak enjoys spending time tinue to “keep an eye” on the ranch as director, junior faculty will handle most of the day-to-day operations. with his family, raising livestock, What is your greatest accomplishment at the ranch? fishing and scouting. He is an Eagle Scout and is active in his “We diversified to reflect what is happening in rural Oklahoma. Previously the ranch was very thoroughchurch, where he is involved in bred-focused. A majority of the horses in Oklahoma are quarter horses and working ranch type horses. While lay leadership responsibilities. As keeping many procedures and techniques already perfected at the ranch by Dr. Steve Slusher, such as he takes on this new duty officially, laser surgery on uterine cysts, we changed to include many other techniques utilized in the equine breedwe sat down for a one-on-one ses- ing industry such as artificial insemination, shipping, processing and freezing semen, and embryo transfer sion with Holyoak.

— reproductive techniques the thoroughbred doesn’t use. It is important that we train our students to meet the needs of the public in the equine industry in Oklahoma and across the country. We also brought in cattle. Students are able to palpate cows, heat synchronization and do embryo transfers — again, techniques our graduates are expected to know. Our senior students help produce the pregnant cows used to teach our junior students how to perform caesarian section surgeries. We strive to produce ‘practice-ready’ graduates.

Just as those who inspired me to come to OSU.” What drew you to the department head position?

“Several of the junior faculty asked me to consider the position, and I felt it was my duty to respond. I like building, mentoring and fostering growth. There are two things in life that you can give away and yet be enhanced — love and knowledge. I like to encourage people, motivate them and provide them the necessary tools to assist them in their professional development. It’s fun. I love teaching for the same reason.”

What do you hope to accomplish in the Veterinary Clinical Sciences Department?

“I hope to build the program and continue to meet the needs of the public and the profession. … I want to do what’s best overall for the department and for the veterinary center. It is important that we have a team effort between the department head, the director of the veterinary teaching hospital and the dean.”

What words would you use to describe your leadership style?

“I am a ‘servant leader.’ I believe in sharing the power; I try to delegate, include and build. I am deeply committed to the personal and professional growth of each of us and our personal professional accountability. When the department’s faculty members succeed, then I feel that I am successful in leadership.

It’s a team effort, not from the top down.”

Derinda Blakeney

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“ I wa n t to d o w h at ’ s b e s t ov e r a l l f o r t h e d e pa r t m e n t and for the v e t e r i n a ry center. It is i m p o r ta n t t h at w e h av e a t e a m e ff o r t b e t w e e n t h e d e pa r t m e n t h e a d, t h e d i r e c to r o f t h e v e t e r i n a ry t e ac h i n g h o s p i ta l a n d t h e d e a n .”

— Dr. G. Reed Holyoak

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n e w fac e s

Dr. Ryan Baumwart Ryan Baumwart, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) is an assistant professor of cardiology.

Originally from Clinton, Okla., he completed his undergraduate studies at Northeastern Oklahoma State University in Tahlequah. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 2002 before completing a small-animal internship and a residency at Ohio State University.

Dr. Baumwart’s research interests focus on cardiovascular interventional surgery.

In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, hiking, camping and snowboarding.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Dr. Elisabeth Giedt Elisabeth Giedt, DVM, MBA, joins the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences as the director of Continuing Education, Extension and Community Engagement. She is originally from San Diego but moved every two years as the child of a Navy pilot.

She graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s in agriculture from Ohio State University, before earning her DVM at that OSU. Most recently, she earned her MBA from the Lake Erie College School of Business in Ohio.

Giedt has owned or worked in mixed animal, large animal, companion animal, and equine only veterinary practices. She most recently served as a professor of equine studies at Lake Erie College.

From 2009 to 2012, she served as the college’s dean of equine studies.

She is an active member of many professional organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Equine Practitioners, the National Association of Equine Affiliated Academics and the Equine Science Society.

In her spare time, Giedt enjoys trail riding, spending time in and around water and traveling. She and her sons spent two weeks traveling around Europe by car recently.

She is focused on building connections among industry, producers, veterinarians and communities throughout Oklahoma.

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Dr. Candace Lyman Candace Lyman, DVM, is an assistant professor of theriogenology in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences. Originally from Abilene, Kan., she earned her bachelor’s and DVM degrees from Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

After that, Lyman completed an internship at Ocala Equine Hospital in Ocala, Fla. From there, she spent a year at Texas A&M Equine Embryo Laboratory performing transcervical aspiration of mare oocytes for cloning. Next, she completed a residency program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, followed by the board certification exam to become a diplomate in the American College of Theriogenology.

Before coming to Oklahoma, Lyman was a lecturer at New Bolton and in private practice in Pennsylvania for nearly a year.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Dr. Jeremiah Moorer Jeremiah Moorer, DVM, joins the CVHS faculty as a lecturer in small animal surgery in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

Originally from Valdosta, Ga., he earned his DVM degree from the University of Georgia. His clinical interests include arthroscopy and total joint replacements.

In his spare time, Moorer enjoys hunting, fishing, softball, volleyball and hiking.

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n e w fac e s

Dr. Akhilesh Ramachandran

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Akhilesh Ramachandran, BVSc & AH, Ph.D., joins the veterinary center as the microbiology section head at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. Originally from India, he earned his BVSc and AH degree (equivalent to DVM) in veterinary medicine from Kerala Agricultural University in India.

He then earned a Ph.D. in veterinary biomedical sciences with a minor in biochemistry and molecular biology from OSU with Jerry Malayer, Ph.D., associate dean for research and graduate education, serving as his adviser. Ramachandran is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists with a specialty in Bacteriology and Mycology.

Before joining the CVHS team, Ramachandran spent 4½ years as a staff scientist with the OSU University Multispectral Laboratories in Ponca City, Okla. His research interest is in developing novel and rapid assays for microbial detection.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

photo provided

The veterinary center’s top priority When I met Dean Sander, I knew is Academic Center fundraising, I would be able to work with her, she says. and I was also very impressed with the programs at the veterinary “We want to have planned center, the faculty and the students. commitments or cash in hand by the end of the calendar year 2013,” “At KU, I had some experience with she says. “We need $4 million to ‘grateful patient’ fundraising. I knew that the veterinary medical hospital pay for the auditorium portion of the Academic Center. We are wanted to start a ‘grateful client’ working with existing supporters program. Being involved from the and exploring current relationships ground up was very compelling with corporations and foundations. to me, and I have a huge love for Of course, we are always open to animals.” new potential supporters.”

Clay and her teenage daughter,

New Director of Development Joins Team Heather Clay, senior director of development and team lead for the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, joined the OSU Foundation in December 2012 from the Kansas University School of Medicine, Wichita.

A native of Wichita, Kan., she earned two undergraduate degrees from Washburn University in Topeka, Kan., one in math and statistics and the other in human services (non-profit management).

Clay has worked in various fundraising roles for more than 17 years, including seven years in higher education.

“The timing was ideal,” says Clay of her move to OSU. “Our dean at the KU School of Medicine had just retired so it was an easy time to transition to Oklahoma State.

Everyone here was so friendly.

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Sophia, have three Chihuahuas.

“Cha Cha is an 8-year-old female and La La is a 7-year-old female.

Pepe is a shelter dog and we think he is about 6 or 7 years old,” she says. “They all have such unique, entertaining personalities. As anyone with pets knows, having animals around adds a pleasing dimension of happiness to daily life.”

“I like meeting the people and working with donors,” she says about working in development.

“For the most part, they have these amazing lives. The majority of them come from modest backgrounds and through perseverance and a little bit of luck, they have amassed these remarkable resources. The fact that they want to do something life-changing with those resources is humbling. In the process I get to know them and their passions and help them leave a legacy of themselves. That’s rewarding.”

C e n t e r f o r Ve t e r i n a r y H e a l t h S c i e n c e s

The university has agreed to fund the faculty office portion of the Academic Center with plans for the groundbreaking in early 2014.

“We can save money if we can break ground for the auditorium at the same time. It is always more cost-effective to have one project going rather than two separate building projects. If we don’t have the money, we’ll have to build it in stages and at a higher price.”

“I am willing to talk to anyone about what is happening at the veterinary center,” Clay adds. “You may be considering a gift down the road, but if you have an interest in learning more about the inspiring work occurring here, I would love the opportunity to tell you more about it.”

Clay completes the veterinary center’s Advancement Team, joining Derinda Blakeney, APR, coordinator of public relations and marketing, and Sharon Worrell, alumni affairs specialist. To arrange an appointment with Clay, call 405385-5607.

Welcoming a New Librarian Liz Amos is the new William E. Brock College of Veterinary Medicine librarian.

Amos, a native Tulsan and lover of Oklahoma higher education, earned her bachelor’s in psychology and sociology from the University of Tulsa. She completed her Master’s in Library and Information Studies in May 2013 from the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa. Amos worked at the OU-Tulsa Schusterman Library as a graduate research assistant, working the reference desk and helping with special projects.

A recipient of the National Library of Medicine South Central Region’s 2012 Library Student Outreach Award, Amos has a passion for working with the community and participating in whatever she can.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

McCully’s service honored with award Veterinary technician supervisor and ophthalmology technician Carey McCully, RVT, received the 2012 Staff Advisory Distinguished Service Award at the University Awards Convocation.

Nominated by Dr. Jonathan

Pucket, a clinical assistant pro-

fessor of ophthalmology, McCully was recognized for her expertise, compassionate care and willingness to help wherever needed to provide the best possible patient care and assistance to colleagues, veterinary students and clients.

Pucket met McCully when he was a veterinary student.

“She instructed me during various clinical rotations and provided a truly delightful experience,” he says. “Her kind words and gentle encouragement guided me along the somewhat overwhelming education experience. Now, as one of my colleagues, she continues to treat every case as if it were her own animal, showing a level of care that is unmatched in her field. Every day she comes to work at this great university with a smile on her face, a passion in her soul for Oklahoma State University, and a heart of healing for all those in need.”

McCully has spent her career in the field of veterinary medicine, beginning in 1993 as a parttime kennel worker at a veterinary clinic. From there, she worked as a veterinary assistant while pursuing her associate degree (Class of 1999) in veterinary technology at OSUOKC in conjunction with Murray State College.

Carey McCully says she was truly surprised at being honored with the 2012 Staff Advisory Distinguished Service Award.

She joined OSU’s veterinary hospital in 2004 and began working for the ophthalmology service in 2006. Most recently, McCully was appointed as a veterinary technician supervisor.

“I was really surprised when they announced my name at the awards ceremony because there were so many people nominated,” says McCully. “I couldn’t imagine it would be me. It was a nice surprise and very humbling. I am truly honored to receive this Distinguished Service Award.”

Originally from Yukon, Okla., Carey lives in Stillwater with her husband, Jeremy; two sons, Caden and Carson; two golden retrievers, Charlie and Lizzie; and a cat, Bonnie.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Getting Healthy All Over

Story by Derinda Blakeney

From people to pets, the focus turns to living better lives The One Health concept is gaining momentum across the country and here at Oklahoma State University. The veterinary center logo includes the tag line “Healthy Animals — Healthy People.” The veterinary medical hospital offers “Fat Camp” sessions for obese dogs and cats, and the dean’s office is one of 41 departments on the Stillwater campus designated as a “Certified Healthy Department” for 2013.

“ T h e ow n e r i s th e m o st i mp o r ta n t pa r t o f th i s p r o c e ss . It ta k e s t i m e f o r a n i ma l s to g a i n w e i g ht, a n d j u st l i k e p e o p l e , i t ta k e s t i m e to lo s e th e w e i g ht.”

— Dr. Lara Sypniewski

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phil shockley / University Marketing

Dean’s office goes healthy

“Several people go for quick walks in the building during breaks.

“We started planning small gath- Another group walks during lunch erings to get to know everyone several times a week. Posters in the department better and around the building encourage realized this would be an awe- people to choose healthy snacks, some opportunity to provide drink water, and walk, walk, walk,” wholesome, nutritious treats and she adds.

The group is also switching the a support system for those trying to improve their health,” says more sugary vending machine Michelle Kuehn, senior admin- snacks to healthier options. When istrative support specialist and the providing snacks for students, instead of breads and sugary breakmain organizer of the effort.

Starting in January 2013, 15 peo- fast rolls, 100-calorie snack packs, ple signed up, pledging to try to eat granola bars, fresh fruit and similar choices are now offered. healthier and exercise more.

“We want to keep our beloved pets as long as possible, so a healthy weight is a good thing.

“Weight is relative to size. For a small dog in stature, 5 pounds can be a big deal. I think because people are always saying, ‘I only have 5 more pounds to lose,’ that it desensitizes us. For example, a 10-pound Chihuahua should really weigh 5 pounds. That means the dog needs to lose 50 percent of its total weight to be healthy. That’s a big deal.”

while exercising. Sypniewski likes it because the warm water helps increase joint mobility and provides buoyancy. Walking on the underwater treadmill will be easier on an overweight dog because of the buoyancy.

“I like the underwater treadmill because it is a very controlled environment,” says Moorer. “The dog can’t jump around. It goes the speed I want, the distance I want and the amount of weight bearing I want.”

The idea for Fat Camp came to Laura Moorer , who has a master’s in public health and is Moorer shortly after she joined the “Although this started with the a certified canine rehabilitation veterinary center in the summer “Just 10 weeks into the program more than 80 pounds had been dean’s office, everyone in the Vet practitioner, often recommends of 2010. Since then, dozens of anilost,” says Kuehn. “That progress Med family is invited to partici- a fitness routine that includes 20 mals have been helped.

“We wanted to offer pet ownsparked the idea of becoming a cer- pate. We are well on our way to minutes on the underwater treadbecoming much healthier people,” mill, plus a strict diet of low-calo- ers some help in preparing their tified healthy department. rie, high protein dog food for her pets before surgery,” says Moorer. says Kuehn.

A short survey was sent to workclients’ pets.

“Whether it is a person or an aniers inquiring about daily exercise, OSU’s Veterinary mal, any surgery comes with inher“We offer low-level laser therapy, taking advantage of the Wellness ‘Fat Camp’ ent risks. An obese animal is at far water treadmill and therapeutic Center health risk assessments, Fat Camp is where dogs and exercises in a comfortable and safe greater risk for complications from who has CPR/first aid training, etc. cats come to lose the pounds. surgery than a healthy animal. Preway,” adds Moorer.

The responses were tallied, and the “If animals are obese, they will habilitation for surgery patients According to Moorer, 15 minapplication was submitted for the live two years less on average than started it all, and then it grew from utes in the pool equals one hour group’s certification. a dog that is normal weight,” says of exercise on the ground. Water there to pets in the community Dr. Lara Sypniewski, commu- is 60 times more resistant than that need to be healthier.” nity practice veterinarian at OSU’s air, providing a more cardiovascontinues veterinary medical hospital. cular and muscular challenge

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Word of Camp Goes Nationwide Good Morning America Weekend Edition heard about Doggie Fat Camp at OSU and

visited with Dr. Lara Sypniewski and Laura Moorer about the canine camp. See the twominute story here: http://abcn.ws/XyJHX6

“I like the underwater treadmill because it is a very controlled environment. The dog can’t jump around. It goes the speed I want, the distance I want and the amount of weight bearing I want.”

— Laura Moorer

Laura Moorer watches Magic Morris, one of her canine clients, work out on the underwater treadmill.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“We also utilize fat camp to help “Nutritional counseling is very prevent osteoarthritis in pets,” adds important,” stresses Sypniewski.

Sypniewski. “If an animal is over- “We offer owners feeding recomweight, it puts more pressure on mendations, diet recommendatheir joints. As the pet ages, the risk tions and healthy supplements to for osteoarthritis increases, espe- use if needed. It is a team approach. cially if the animal is overweight.” We can’t be successful if the owner Getting your pet to slim down doesn’t follow through with nutriat camp is important, but it’s not tional changes at home and recommended exercise regimens.” all about the pounds.

“She had to drop 30 pounds or a quarter of her body weight before our small-animal surgeons would agree to repair the torn ligaments,” says Moorer. “The owner is the most important part of this process. It takes time for animals to gain weight, and just like people, it takes time to lose the weight.”

“The key is to prevent obesity Their greatest success story was before it happens,” says Sypniewski. a Newfoundland that had to lose “When you get a puppy or a kitten, 30 pounds before it could have sur- start feeding it nutritionally from the start.” gery for two torn ACLs.

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“If it isn’t ‘dog food,’ it isn’t dog food,” adds Moorer.

If your beloved pet needs to slim down and lead a healthier lifestyle, make a consultation appointment with OSU’s Fat Camp for a happier, healthier pet.

CVHS professor has hand in new graduate program There is a new graduate program at OSU, and Dr. Carey Pope Ph.D., Regents Professor and Sitlington Chair in Toxicology in the Department of Physiological Sciences at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, is one of its co-initiators.

students from multiple programs will have a host of experts with whom to study and collaborate.”

“Faculty in the new OSU Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program come from the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, departments of Zoology, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and the Center for Health Sciences in Tulsa,” says Pope. “Participating graduate

approved,” says Pope. “Our goal is to develop an MS/PhD program in the future. We are very excited to launch this new academic program. We think it will attract many students from diverse fields with an interest in the toxic effects of chemicals in public health and the environment.”

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Pop e worked with L o r e n

Smith of zoology and David

Wallace of CHS to initiate the ITP with support of an interdisciplinary program-planning grant Housed within the OSU Grad- through the provost’s office. The uate College, the Certificate general objective of the ITP is to Program in Interdisciplin- facilitate research and training ary Toxicology was approved efforts among faculty from multiby the OSU Board of Regents in ple disciplines interested in chemlate October 2012. The program ical toxicity. requires 12 credit hours, with “The Certificate Program in Intertwo core courses and six hours of disciplinary Toxicology is the first guided electives. academic program of ITP to be

Carey Pope, Ph.D.

ITP research team wins first grant A team of ITP faculty received funding in August 2013 to study “Nanocarrier-mediated

Targeting of Bioscavengers to the Red Blood Cell for Prolonged Circulation and Protection.”

Carey Pope is the principal investigator for the project. He is joined by Jing Liu and Ashish Ranjan from the veterinary center’s Department of Physiological Sciences, Josh Ramsey from chemical engineering, and Steve Hartson from biochemistry/molecular biology.

The four-year, $3.3 million grant is funded warfare and chemical terrorism,” says Pope. through the Defense Threat Reduction “We anticipate that our success on this initial Agency. The ITP team will collaborate with grant application will stimulate more interdisSteve Brimijoin at the Mayo Clinic to develop ciplinary research efforts in toxicology-related a nanocarrier to aid in the protection of sol- areas.” diers and first responders from the acute toxFor more information on the icity of nerve agents.

Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program,

“Receiving funding for this interdisciplinary project will hopefully lead to more effective protection against these highly toxic chemicals that have previously been used in both chemical

visit toxicology.okstate.edu.

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Finding the Causes of Disease

“The interesting thing about research is that you start with a theory. Often you don’t find that theory to be true. Instead your finding leads you down another research path, one that you had not anticipated.

Dr. Jean d’Offay, DVM, Ph.D.

D’Offay and his team try to find the roots of what ails animals — and people

If we understand what causes the disease, we can develop vaccines, better treatments, and better protection against the disease.” That’s been driving Jean d’Offay, DVM, Ph.D., since he joined the faculty of OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences 27 years ago.

Dr. d’Offay, a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists, is studying two diseases in particular.

Dr. Jean d’Offay bottlefeeds a calf. Part of his research focuses on the bovine herpes virus.

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“Since I can’t study all the viruses, I have focused my research on two — bovine herpes virus and simian retrovirus. In my comparative medicine research, I look at genes within a virus to try to determine which genes cause a disease. That’s what fascinates me,” says d’Offay.

D’Offay has also studied the development of naturally occurring simian retrovirus associated lymphomas in baboons.

“I am studying simian T-lymphotropic virus (STLV), a virus that can cause lymphoma in baboons. The virus is closely related to human He collaborates with OU Health T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV). The Sciences Center and other fac- best thing about working with ulty at the OSU veterinary center simian retrovirus at OU Health Sciincluding Robert Fulton, DVM, ences Center is that it is a naturally MS, Ph.D., DACVM, Regents occurring infection. I just take samProfessor and McCasland Foun- ples from the living baboons or dation Endowed Chair for Food from baboons that naturally pass Animal Research, and Richard away and study the progression of the disease. I do not actively experEberle, Ph.D. “I work with Dr. Fulton on iment on these baboons,” he says. bovine herpes virus research,” In people, the virus is transd’Offay says. “We recently analyzed mitted sexually, via breast milk 28 different viruses that came from from mother to baby or by sharcases of abortion or respiratory dis- ing needles. ease. Some samples had been from “The interesting thing about cows that had been vaccinated, and research is that you start with a thesome cattle were not vaccinated. To ory,” says d’Offay. “Often you don’t determine if the vaccine could acci- find that theory to be true. Instead dentally cause abortion or respi- your finding leads you down ratory disease, we compared the another research path, one that genomes of these different viruses.” you had not anticipated. Through

“By analyzing the virus from archived blood samples collected over eight years from baboons that died of lymphoma, we were able to determine that, in one case, the cell that grew to cause the tumor could be detected five years before death, at a time when chemotherapy might have a better chance to work. The baboon serves as a good model to study HTLV-associated cancer in humans.”

“Recently, my research has been funded through OU Health Sciences Center and Novartis. During the summer months, I work with students in the first and second years of the veterinary medicine program. They help collect the samples, analyze the results and write the paper.

According to d’Offay, it is com“I think it is important to help vetmon to eat primate in Africa. STLV erinary students understand what is thought to be transmitted from research is about and what it takes primates to humans by blood con- to come up with results. I have a tamination during slaughter.

70 percent teaching assignment, “Five percent of HTLV-infected teaching veterinary immunology humans develop either cancer to first year students and veteri(lymphoma) or an inflammatory nary virology to second year stubrain disease that results in a paral- dents during the spring semester. ysis called Tropical Spastic Parapa- That leaves summer and the fall resis. The same patient never gets semester for me to concentrate on both diseases, though. my research. It is important for me as a teacher to share my research “Research is never ending. We with students. We will need more are trying to determine how the researchers in the future as cursame virus causes cancer in some rent ones step aside. I want them infected individuals and paralyto be as excited as I am to look for sis in others. If we understand the new answers.” disease in baboons, it will help us

Dr. d’Offay’s research team genotyping of the virus from the found cases of abortion by vacci- different baboons, we found that understand the disease in humans. nated cows where the virus recov- sexual transmission was not the The more you look into a subject, ered from the fetus matched the most important source of trans- the more you realize how much you vaccine virus. mission; it was fighting between don’t know and you keep searching for the answer.”

“Did it cause the abortion?” he females.”

says. “For years, we have suspected Adult female baboons follow that the bovine herpes modified- a dominance hierarchy. When live virus vaccine could cause abor- the females first come in heat, tion, but we could not prove it. You they fight to establish their social are not supposed to vaccinate preg- position. nant cows with such vaccines. We “Baboons are 3-4 years old when put the information we find out they start coming in heat, and that there and let the practicing veteri- is where we find the infection,” he narian decide what to do about the adds. “There was some incidence of vaccine. The companies that make transmission from mother to baby the vaccine also need to decide through breast milk but the majorwhat to say about when to vacci- ity of the cases were from fighting. nate and when not to vaccinate.”

And with never-ending research comes the need for constant resources to do the studies.

Derinda Blakeney

About Jean d’Offay Dr. Jean d’Offay grew up on the Seychelles Islands in the Indian Ocean. He earned his DVM degree from University of Pretoria in South Africa, a diploma in tropical veterinary medicine from the University of Edinburgh and his doctorate in virology from the University of Missouri. D’Offay is also a diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists. He has received the class teaching award five times and was selected as the top teacher by both the first-year and second-year classes in 2005. He has also won the Zoetis Distinguished Teaching Award twice and was named the Regents Distinguished Teacher of the Year in 2002.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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Lindsay Starkey won the 2013 Merck Outstanding Graduate Student Award.

At the presentation were (from left) Doug Carithers from Merial, Starkey, Dr. Susan Little and Stephen Tegarden from Merck.

NCVP sees year of changes, triumphs The National Center for Veterinary Parasitology has seen a string of changes and successes over the last year. A look at a few of them:

NEW COLLABORATIONS Projects between the Companion Animal Parasite Council and the NCVP are expanding.

Dr. Chris Carpenter, executive director of the Companion Animal Parasite Council, has visited the NCVP twice in the past few months to foster collaborative projects between the two groups.

Carpenter, accompanied on the first trip by

NCVP sponsors Novartis Animal Health, Bayer, Merial and Kirkpatrick Foundation

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Dr. Jason Drake of Novartis Animal Health,

met with NCVP faculty, staff and graduate students, toured the facilities and developed initial plans for working on common goals.

Since then, NCVP residents have reviewed Expanded Diagnostic Lab and updated recommendations on the CAPC Oklahoma State University’s diagnostic vetwebsite, ensuring that the information pro- erinary parasitology laboratory has moved to vided is accurate and current. Trainees have a larger space. also authored new recommendations, which The expanded space — located in the Oklaare subsequently reviewed and approved by the homa Animal Disease Diagnostic LabCAPC board, to meet emerging parasite infor- oratory across the street — dramatically mational needs. increases the lab’s square footage, allowing On his second trip, Carpenter captured room for more equipment. The larger laboraextensive video of clinical parasitology in tory is also centrally located in a busy diagnostic action that will be used in future CAPC edu- lab that offers more immediate access to tools cational efforts. such as microtiter plate readers and fluorescent microscopes that support diagnostic services.

“Working with the NCVP allows us to create high-quality content to meet the needs of veterinarians. And in turn, the residents receive experience working on continuing education at the national level. It is a great opportunity for both organizations,” he says.

ENHANCED DATABASE Many years ago, Dr. J. Carl Fox, a professor at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, compiled an online image database to aid those engaged in teaching and learning veterinary parasitology. Drs. Helen Jordan, Sidney Ewing and Alan Kocan also contributed images. In recent years, Dr. Eileen Johnson has led the charge, capturing high-quality parasite images to share on the web.

This parasite image database has been used by parasitologists and students worldwide and is linked as a resource on VIN and cited on Parasite World. NCVP staff members are updating the site to enhance the interface and improve image quality.

SUCCESS STORIES Dr. Chris Adolph, NCVP resident who recently finished his master’s degree at the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology, topped Veterinary Practice News’ list of “25 Vets to Watch in 2013.” He also was invited to join Phi Kappa Phi, a national collegiate academic honor society.

Dr. Lindsay Starkey, NCVP Bayer Resident in Veterinary Parasitology and Ph.D. candidate, received the 2013 Merck Outstanding Graduate Student Award. Starkey, who received her DVM from OSU in 2011, presented her research regarding Ehrlichia spp. infections in dogs in Oklahoma to a crowded DINING TOGETHER Dr. Anne Zajac, parasitologist at the Vir- room on the opening night of the American ginia-Maryland Regional College of Veteri- Association of Veterinary Parasitologists 2013 nary Medicine at Virginia Tech, spoke about annual meeting in Chicago. the specter of anthelmintic resistance in small ruminants in the United States at a spring dinABOUT THE CENTER ner co-hosted by Oklahoma State University’s Veterinary parasites affect human health and student chapter of the American Association of society in many ways. With the generous supVeterinary Parasitology and the National Cen- port of sponsors, the National Center for Vetter for Veterinary Parasitology. erinary Parasitology works to promote greater More than 30 students and faculty, including understanding and control of parasitic disemeritus faculty, heard Zajac’s talk entitled, “It eases in animals through innovative partnerseemed like a good idea at the time: controlling ships between academia and industry. Housed Haemonchus.” She explained how we got to this in the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences at point with anthelmintic resistance nematodes Oklahoma State University, the center strives to in sheep and goats and shared ideas for a way create future generations of veterinary parasitolforward. Zajac, NCVP advisory board member ogists, conduct targeted research, and provide and charter diplomate of the Parasitology sub- diagnostic and consulting services worldwide. specialty of ACVM, is a leader in ruminant par- Drs. Mason Reichard and Susan E. Little asitology with a special interest in alternatives are the center co-directors and Dr. Kelly Allen to anthelmintics for parasite control. The stu- serves as NCVP project leader. dents and faculty gave Zajac an OSU scarf, cofBoard members and their universities fee mug and a special Haemonchus plate crafted include Drs. Byron Blagbum , Auburn ; by the veterinary center’s Dr. Eileen Johnson. Dwight Bowman, Cornell; Mike Dryden, Kansas State; Craig Reinemeyer, East Tennessee Clinical Research; and Anne Zajac, Virginia Tech.

To learn more, visit www.ncvetp.org.

The posted images are available to anyone for educational use in lectures, presentations or discussions of parasites and parasitic diseases, but they should not be published or used for commercial purposes. If you need an image for publication, contact the NCVP with a specific request via ncvp@okstate.edu.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

minor organisms, MAJOR IMPACT More than 100 faculty, staff and students came to hear Stephen Klaine, Ph.D., present “The Janus Face of Nanotechnology: Promises, Products and Potential Problems” at the 13th Sitlington Lecture in Toxicology on Oct. 18, 2012. Hosted by Carey Pope, Ph.D., OSU Regents Professor and the Sitlington Chair in Toxicology in the Department of Physiological Sciences, this annual seminar strives to bring in toxicology experts from around the world.

Originally from Cincinnati, Klaine earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry at the University of Cincinnati. While working at Procter and Gamble, he took environmental courses at night. A company executive who noticed his interest in the effects of chemicals on the environment recommended Klaine for graduate school at Rice University.

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Clemson University’s Stephen Klaine (left) and OSU’s Carey Pope.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“ W e h av e t h e p ot e n t i a l to r e a l ly i m p r ov e e v e r yo n e ’ s l i f e . W h at w e d o n ’ t k n ow i s w h at t h e c o n s e q u e n c e s a r e … W e n e e d to s u p p ly people who make policy w i t h t h e i n f o r m at i o n t h e y n e e d to m a k e g o o d p o l i c y.”

Stephen Klaine likens the possible effects of nanotechnology to the Roman god Janus, who had two faces.

“I am intrigued how a compound is toxic to a particular organism but also what controls its bioavailDr. Klaine says 1,500 commercial products in ability,” says Klaine. “Contaminants can be in the water society today contain nanomaterials, and more are and not affect the organisms. It depends on how availon the way. able a compound is to an organism.”

“We have the potential to really improve everyone’s About seven or eight years ago, Klaine’s interest in the environment led him to nanotechnology. Nano life. What we don’t know is what the consequences refers to any particle that is less than 100 nanometers. are — whether they are human or environmental. We have an opportunity to look at various applications “I met a colleague who was conducting carbon of these materials. As scientists, it is our responsibilresearch,” explains Klaine. “Carbon nanotubes are ity to understand where these nanomaterials go and not stable in water, and his research involved modwhat potential harmful effects may happen. We need ifying the surface of the nanotubes to make them to calculate the risk to humans or risk to the environmore stable in water, which presents an environmenment prior to widespread use.” tal risk to organisms. We decided to collaborate with He states that moving forward in the world of nanmy colleague producing the particles and my team otechnology calls for more research. assessing how these nanomaterials interact with var“We need to supply people who make policy with ious organisms.”

The title of Klaine’s talk referred to Janus, a Roman the information they need to make good policy,” he god who had two faces. While some nanomaterials adds. “Further research will advance knowledge on the have adverse effects, Klaine believes the majority of potential adverse effects of the vast array of different these nanomaterials do not present a high risk of types of nanomaterials being developed and provide data in support of defensible conclusions.” toxicity.

Klaine is a professor in the Department of Biolog“The real environmental and public health probical Sciences and the director of the Institute of Envilems with nanotechnology may not be with acute ronmental Toxicology at Clemson University. toxicity but with long-term, chronic effects with proDerinda Blakeney longed exposures or with effects on processes we haven’t looked at such as microbial biofilms on the surface of the sediments. We live in a time of technological advancements. Nanotechnology is being applied to every sector of society from airplanes to the clothes we wear to cosmetics, sunscreens and even drug delivery systems.”

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Dr. Craig Henke, a pulmonologist and critical care physician at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Medicine, discusses his work on pulmonary fibrosis.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Erasing Scars Physician details his work to help pulmonary fibrosis patients A noted medical doctor and University of Minnesota professor would like to take the death sentence out of pulmonary fibrosis, work he detailed during a December talk at the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

Henke’s work focuses on the cells that make scar tissue — fibroblasts. In sick patients, they seem to go haywire. They make too much scar tissue and don’t stop, instead of simply repairing injury like normal cells of their kind.

“The patients suffer terribly from this disease,” says

The only treatment is a lung transplant. But nearly a third of transplants end badly as patients’ immune systems reject the organs. The lucky patients can live longer than a decade, Henke says.

Dr. Craig Henke, a pulmonologist and critical care

physician at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Medicine, during his talk for the Lundberg-

“We don’t really have much to offer patients for treatment,” Henke told the assembly, as he clicked through the slides of his research. “We’re trying to Henke studies idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, make headway into it.” which afflicts approximately 200,000 people in the Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis’s connection to vetUnited States and has no known cause. The disease erinary medicine at OSU lies in animal research. The slowly asphyxiates patients by overwhelming their veterinary center, which has an active lung disease lungs with scar tissue. research group, focuses in part on comparative medKienlen Lectureship in Biomedical Research

that highlights groundbreaking research into medical issues.

icine — looking into problems that affect animals and humans, often using animal models in medical experiments.

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But Henke noted that IPF is a tough study in animal models, which highlights a stubborn problem in medicine.

“There’s little direct knowledge about human lung fibrosis,” he told students and faculty members. “I think a lot of the lack of progress in the field is because the animal models that we have to work with just don’t replicate the human disease very well.”

He began looking at IPF over a decade ago. Benefitting from the University of Minnesota’s status as an organ transplant center, his team’s work uncovered relationships among the lung’s chemistry, proteins and fibroblasts, later finding a connection between

the disease progression, the disease-mediating fibroblasts and a special kind of stem cell. Defects in the stem cells, known for their use in building other cells, caused them to make the offending fibroblasts, which lead to the excessive scarring.

“We believe our discovery provides a solid foundation for developing theories directed toward the fibrogenic progenitor before they have the opportunity to mediate organ fibrosis,” Henke told the assembly.

If researchers better understand the causes of the disease, they can help craft drugs or other treatments to fight it. But much more work needs to be done to find a full cure for the terminal disease.

MATT ELLIOTT

Lin Liu (left), Ph.D., hosts the annual Lundberg-Kienlen

Lectureship in Biomedical Research. This year’s talk featured Dr. Craig Henke

(right).

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Working in the nano medicine lab are (from left) Dr. Ashish Ranjan, Ruchika Fernando, Ryan Newhardt and Aaron Deese.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Right on Target Ranjan’s lab using nanoparticles to treat disease

Ashish Ranjan may have only joined the

veterinary center a year ago, but he’s got his research moving right along.

The assistant professor in the Department of Physiological Sciences is using nanoparticles to deliver disease-fighting drugs to targeted cancerous and chronically infected cells.

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“Current treatment in cancer therapy usually relies on systemic delivery with limited tumor specificity,” says Ranjan. “This may result in adverse side effects in normal tissues and insufficient drug delivery to the targeted cancerous tumor. Encapsulation of a chemotherapeutic agent into a nanoparticle has the potential to reduce systemic toxicity and enhance drug delivery. For cancer targeting, we are pursuing two parallel approaches to address this critical need. One involves development of image guided drug delivery, and the other involves optimizing concurrent combinations of radiation and chemotherapy.”

NANO MEDICINE AND TARGETED THERAPY LABORATORY MEMBERS Ashish Ranjan, assistant professor Danny Maples, pre-doctoral fellow and chemist Venkatesan Perumal, post-doctoral fellow Lauren Benedict, master’s veterinary biomedical sciences student Michael Jensen, undergraduate Ryan Newhardt, undergraduate Kevin Mclean, undergraduate Michele Harbeson, undergraduate Joshua Vanosdol, special volunteer

“ B e c a u s e r a d i at i o n c a n c a u s e a dv e r s e s i d e e ff e c t s , i t i s o u r g oa l to c o m b i n e t h e s i t e - s p e c i f i c p r oto n b a s e d r a d i at i o n w i t h n a n o d r u g d e l i v e ry. T h i s ta r g e t e d a p p r oac h l e s s e n s t h e tox i c r a d i at i o n by o n ly t r e at i n g t h e t u m o r a n d n ot h a r m i n g ot h e r w i s e h e a lt h y t i s s u e i n t h e pat i e n t, a n d s i m u lta n e o u s ly inducing drug release from the l i p o s o m e s .”

— Ashish Ranjan, assistant professor in the Department of Physiological Sciences

Ranjan’s lab uses a simultaneous combination of drug encapsulated imageable nanocarriers with clinical imaging devices to achieve more accurate targeting, which may provide a more consistent tumor therapy.

Ranjan’s research is in the cell According to Ranjan, a benchto -bedside model of research culture model phase for prostate requires an interdisciplinary cancer, and plans are underway to approach to increase the project’s conduct in vivo research in clinioverall success rate. For exam- cally relevant animal models. ple, the laser-guided drug delivOther areas of active research in ery system being developed in his Ranjan’s group involve reducing “Our team is developing nano- lab could be translated to clinical threats of biological and chemiparticles that can be imaged using treatment of canine patients at the cal weapons. ultrasound, and simultaneously Veterinary Medical Hospital. He “There is an urgent need to achieves drug delivery under image collaborates with Kenneth Bar- develop effective prophylactic guidance,” he says. “One of the tels, DVM, McCasland Founda- and therapeutic methods against ongoing efforts recently funded tion Laser Surgery Professor and chemical and biological weapons,”

by OCAST [Oklahoma Center for Kerr Chair for Biophotonics at says Ranjan. “As part of the OSU the Advancement of Science and the hospital.

Interdisciplinary Toxicology ProTechnology] focuses on developing For concurrent combination of gram led by Dr. Carey Pope, we thermally sensitive liposomes that radiation and chemotherapy, Ran- recently received funding from the can be combined with ultrasound- jan’s group is collaborating with an Defense Threat Reduction Agency based hyperthermia applicators.

OSU radiation physics group and to develop nanoparticle-based “A thermally sensitive liposome with the ProCure Proton Therapy bioscavenger molecules that can is a tiny bubble made out of mate- Center in Oklahoma City. The plan provide prolonged enhanced prorial similar to a cell membrane. is to develop a drug delivery system tection against such attacks.

These liposomes can be filled with that will deliver a vital anticancer “Similarly, we are developing a cancer-fighting drug and deliv- drug encapsulated in the nanopar- the means to reduce patient comered using a very precise hyperther- ticles concurrently during radia- pliant therapies by achieving tarmia applicator, thereby achieving tion therapy to help treat prostate, geted intracellular delivery of site-specific delivery. Currently, our lung and breast cancers. antimicrobials using our nanopargroup is developing many variants “Because radiation can cause ticle against a variety of intracelluof these liposomes to enhance laser adverse side effects, it is our goal lar pathogens of national interest. and radiation therapy, in addition to combine the site-specific proton These may effectively reduce drugto ultrasound,” he adds. based radiation with nano drug resistant pathogens and aid in delivery. This targeted approach development of innovative treatlessens the toxic radiation by only ment approaches.” treating the tumor and not harming otherwise healthy tissue in the patient, and simultaneously inducing drug release from the liposomes,” he says.

Ranjan collaborates with Jerry

Malayer, Ph.D., associate dean for

research and graduate education at the veterinary center, and Akhilesh Ramachandran, assistant professor at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, to evaluate the nanoparticles against a variety of clinically relevant pathogens.

Funding for Ranjan’s team’s projects comes from several sources, including the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, internal department grants, the OSU Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.

“The imp ortant thing that people need to know about our research is that the successful translation of our approach to clinical trials will have huge implications in patients’ lives,” says Ranjan.

“Nanoparticles have tremendous potential to change the way people look at current clinical practices.

This is no longer basic science and is moving toward clinical science.

If we can change how we treat diseases going forward, it will help doctors target drug delivery to minute areas for maximum effect and minimum risk to the patient.”

Derinda Blakeney

2013 Oklahoma State University

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Getting a big picture using tiny particles Distinguished Scientist Lecture focuses on nanoparticles Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Shawn Chen (left) was welcomed to OSU

by CVHS Dean Jean Sander and assistant professor Ashish Ranjan.

A chemist by training, Shawn Chen, Ph.D. , is a chief and senior investigator at

the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering with the National Institutes of Health in

Bethesda, Md.

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In his presentation, “ Nanoparticle Platforms for Molecular Imaging, ” at

McElroy Hall in early February 2013, he provided an overview of a novel nanoparticle that has potential applications in medical diagnostics and therapy.

Sponsored by the Department of Physiological Sciences and OSU’s Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, the seminar was part of the Distinguished Scientist Speaker Series and focused on various nanoparticle platforms that can be used for molecular imaging.

Chen also presented new developments in photoacoustic imaging that could provide high tumor contrast, and suitably addressed the limitation of resolution and depth limitations of optical imaging. He also discussed other diverse theranostic systems that achieved simultaneous imaging and cancer therapy with significant success.

Chen highlighted the key limitation in clinical translation of this idea, and noted the critical role These particles could be used that centers like the Center for to determine biomarkers in vitro, Veterinary Health Sciences play in diagnose diseases in vivo and even- improving the clinical translation of this technology. tually treat the diseases.

The field of theranostics is so Chen and his team are using new that Chen was tapped to a new method of investigating develop a new journal for this area molecular imaging that combines of research.

Theranostics is in early therapy and diagnostics to create publication, and Chen invited the “theranostics.” The idea is to use nearly 60 faculty, staff and students multiple techniques to arrive at a attending the seminar to submit comprehensive diagnosis and treattheir related research articles for ment regime. the journal.

In one study, Chen’s team used His research team’s work on using a gold nanoparticle platform for ELISA provided a new approach of improving assay sensitivity. ELISA, or Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, is a test that uses antibodies and color change to detect the presence of a substance. Using the gold nanoparticle in ELISA provides a more accurate/ sensitive determination of the contents or characteristics of the subject matter being examined.

graduate and postdoctoral students during his visit as well as with the director of the Advanced Magnetic Resonance Center Imaging Facility at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.

“Image-guided drug delivery is a highly interdisciplinary field that combines the fields of chemotherapy and imaging for the development of ‘personalized medicine.’ Personalized medicine aims for individual chemotherapeutic interventions based on ex vivo, in vivo and response of a patient to a particular treatment regimen,” says Ranjan. “Theranostics can play a key role in personalized medicine by providing real-time imaging feedback for active monitoring of drug delivery.

“With his extensive experience, Dr. Chen is considered an internationally recognized authority in the field of theranostic nanoparticles and their application in molecChen’s visit was hosted by Ash- ular imaging and cancer therapy,” different imaging modalities to determine the timeline of a can- ish Ranjan, BVSc, Ph.D., assistant adds Ranjan. “He has published cerous tumor. Highlighting the professor in the Department of more than 300 papers, numernanoparticles made it easier to Physiological Sciences. Chen also ous books and book chapters and track the tumor’s growth and spent time with veterinary center has multiple patents. We were response to therapeutics over a and main campus researchers, fac- delighted to have him visit and ulty, veterinary hospital clinicians, present his work.” short period of time.

Derinda Blakeney

“With his extensive experience, Dr. Chen is considered a n i n t e r n at i o n a l ly r e c o g n i z e d a u t h o r i t y i n t h e f i e l d o f t h e r a n o s t i c n a n o pa r t i c l e s a n d t h e i r a p p l i c at i o n i n m o l e c u l a r i m a g i n g a n d c a n c e r t h e r a p y. … W e w e r e d e l i g h t e d to h av e h i m v i s i t a n d p r e s e n t h i s wo r k .”

— Ashish Ranjan

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Singing Out Vet Center band rocks TEDxOStateU with unique take

It might not have been what the TEDxOStateU audience expected from representatives from the Veterinary Center. …

But then again, TED events are designed to engage the audience with quick, 10- to 15-minute presentations. And the theme of TEDxOStateU 2012 was “IGNITE” your creativity and your passion; presentations included sustainability issues and important research being done at OSU that will have an impact on society for decades to come.

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Performing as AC/VP at TEDxOStateU were (from left) Drs. Melanie Breshears (OSU DVM ’98), Robin Allison, Anthony Confer (OSU DVM ’72) and Jerry Ritchey (OSU DVM ’91), backed on the drums by Ed Harris from the College of Education.

Speaking at the event was Michael Davis, DVM, Oxley Chair in Equine Sports Medicine and director of the Comparative Exercise Physiology Laboratory from the Department of Physiological Sciences. As Davis talked about his U.S. Marine Corps-funded research, he was accompanied by Sampson, a black Labrador retriever in the military program, and the dog’s handler. The dog is trained to find improvised explosive devices among other things for the military. Part of Davis’ research is directed toward discovering the key to a dog’s resistance to fatigue.

To watch all the videos from the event, visit OState.TV or TEDxOStateU.com.

Gary lawson / University Marketing

So perhaps when AC/VP and the Pneumo

Sistas — a unique veterinary pathology rock band

— took the TEDx stage on Nov. 1, 2012, the audience might not have been that surprised after all.

Band members — veterinary center faculty Drs.

Anthony Confer, Jerry Ritchey, Tim Snider, Robin Allison and Melanie Breshears with the College of Education’s Ed Harris on drums — put veterinary pathology words to familiar rock songs.

Dr. Michael Davis tells the TEDx audience that his research, funded by the Marines, is aimed at discovering the key to a dog’s resistance to fatigue.

2013 Oklahoma State University

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It’s All Good That’s the word from Rossi the Approval Poodle Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Emily Meridith (left) and Megan Gregory visit with Rossi the Approval Poodle at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

Rossi the Approval Poodle wasn’t

Savage has put Rossi’s “approved” rules for living a hapgiving accolades during her OSU visit — pier and healthier life into a book rather, it seemed she was collecting them. named after the big-haired canine.

A standard poodle, Rossi is a The pair was signing copies durcertified pet therapy dog with the ing their January visit to McElroy Hall at the Oklahoma State Human Animal Link of OklaUniversity’s Center for Veterinary homa Foundation. She earned Health Sciences. her nickname, “the Approval The veterinary center and memPoodle,” by “approving” of good behavior. She and her owner, bers of its Canine PractitioJudy Savage, volunteer in hos- ners Club hosted the visit. Guests enjoyed bottled water and cookpitals, schools and libraries. ies shaped like dog bones while waiting to meet Rossi and Savage. Each person received a backpack of goodies along with one autographed copy of the book per family.

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“Inviting Judy and Rossi to the veterinary center was a perfect fit,” says Dr. Lara Sypniewski, clinician at OSU’s Community Practice and Canine Practitioner Club adviser. “It’s important for the general public to see the important role veterinarians play in keeping their pets and working dogs like Rossi healthy. Judy was very generous with her time, and Rossi was exceptionally patient after visiting two other OSU campus groups earlier in the day. We were very excited to welcome them to Oklahoma’s only veterinary college.”

Tying it all together Georgia professor links human, animal health The Class of 1963 Distinguished Lecturer’s speech

tied together trade, traffic, emerging and zoonotic diseases and the important role of veterinarians in keeping the public healthy and animals disease-free.

Corrie Brown, DVM, Ph.D., DACVP, presented “The Global

Express: Coping with Disease Threats in an Interconnected World” at the 2012 Annual Fall

Veterinary Conference. Brown

is a Josiah Meigs Professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathology at the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

“It’s an ongoing process,” says Dr. Brown. “Global warming, live animal trade, the ease with which people can move from continent to continent — all contribute to an increase in diseases being transferred from one area to another and from animals to humans and vice versa.”

Brown shared that as emerging economies such as Brazil, Russia, India, and China enter the market, it is vital that all the players follow the same health and safety standards when trading internationally to minimize the risk.

“To help ensure animals and people stay healthy, I encourage veterinarians to engage more in overall health issues. Veterinarians are often the first to see diseases and the first point at which we can gain control to minimize adverse effects,” she adds.

Brown earned her bachelor’s degree in animal behavior from McGill University in Montreal and her DVM degree from Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph. She completed a combined residency/Ph.D. in comparative pathology at the University of California, Davis. She is also a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists.

She was an assistant professor of pathology at Louisiana State University briefly before joining the U.S. Department of Agriculture at Plum Island. As head of the pathology section at Plum Island, she specialized in the diagnosis and pathogenesis of transboundary animal diseases. She joined the University of Georgia in 1996.

Brown is interested in infectious diseases of food-producing animals, emerging diseases and international veterinary medicine.

She has published or presented more than 250 scientific papers and has testified to Congress on issues involving agroterrorism.

Derinda Blakeney

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“ G lo b a l wa r m i n g , live animal trade, the ease with which people c a n m ov e f r o m c o n t i n e n t to continent — all c o n t r i bu t e to an increase in diseases being transferred f r o m o n e a r e a to a n ot h e r a n d f r o m a n i m a l s to h u m a n s a n d v i c e v e r s a .”

Dr. Corrie Brown explains the links between healthy animals and a healthy public in her speech.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Military Honors Veterinary center commemorates Veterans Day

Left: A combined ROTC color guard presented the colors on

Veterans Day at the Military Veterinarian Honor Court.

Right: Retired Army Reserve Maj.

Gen. Douglas Dollar urges

those with military experiences to share their stories.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

A small group gathered at the

Patricia Baker joined the military right out of high school at age Court outside McElroy Hall on 18 and currently serves as a public the Stillwater campus in Novem- affairs specialist for the Oklahoma ber to pay tribute to those who Air National Guard. Like her father have military ties. After all, many before her, she did her basic miliOSU Cowboy veterinarians have tary training at Lackland Air Force served, currently serve or will serve Base in San Antonio, Texas. in the armed forces.

“I am currently on a traditional Military Veterinarian Honor

A combined ROTC color guard guardsman status, which means I presented the colors, and retired can have a full-time job as a vetArmy Reserve Maj. Gen. Doug- erinary student here at OSU. One las Dollar addressed the group weekend a month, I go to Oklaon “Why Should We Observe Vet- homa City and perform my training duties there,” says Baker. “I feel erans Day?” Dollar encourages current and like we have support here in our past military personnel “to share veterinary school for persons who their stories. Veterans’ Day is a day are serving in the military to help to reflect on the consequences of them succeed and complete school. war and the sacrifices made.” After When I graduate with my veteriall, he adds, “Often, non-veterans nary degree, I plan to apply to the do not understand what veterans health professions officer program do or have done for our country, for the U.S. Air Force active duty.” and veterans sometimes assume that non-veteran family members and friends know what they have done.”

OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences has long had a relationship with U.S. armed forces.

Several alumni and faculty members have had illustrious careers in the Army, Air Force or National Guard. In addition, nine veterinary students are currently connected with the military. They are: Class of 2013 Catie Morris, Emily Stoppelmoore and Erin Way; Class of 2014 Audra Blasi, Stefanie Bolas and Candace Wimbish; and Class of 2016 Patricia Baker and Brianna Smith.

Audra Blasi and Erin Way are already in the program Baker hopes to join.

“My dad and cousin are both in the Air Force,” says Blasi. “I have always thought about joining, and when the scholarship came up last year, I jumped at it. I was commissioned in January 2012. Earning my veterinary degree is my top priority as far as the Air Force is concerned. After I graduate, I have a few weeks off and then it is off to commissioned officer training, which is like the ‘gentlemen’s boot camp.’ Then I will go to another school for public health followed by a three-year assignment at a base.

After that, if I want to stay in, I can.

If I like it and military life is what I want it to be, I will probably stay in. If not, I will probably say, ‘Well, I did my duty’ and join a large animal practice.”

Like Blasi, Way has relatives in the Air Force, which gave her some insight into military life.

“My dad and brother are both in the Air Force, so I had been thinking about joining the military for some time,” says Way. “I submitted my application and was commissioned the spring of my second year of veterinary school. Like Audra said, after I earn my DVM degree, I will attend commissioned officer training school. That’s where they teach you how to be an officer in the military, how to wear your uniform, how to salute — the ins and outs of the Air Force.”

It might sound a little unusual for veterinarians to go into military service, but Way explains their jobs: “Veterinarians in the Air Force serve as public health officers,” she says. “We mostly do human health rather than interacting with animals. Our job is about the potential disease transmission between humans and animals, food safety and if there were an infectious disease outbreak, we would do epidemiology related to that.

“It’s nice to see the veterinary center commemorate Veterans Day,” adds Way. “Veterinarians play an important role in the military and in protecting the food supply for everyone.”

“OSU has some prestigious graduates who are in the military,” notes Blasi. “Brig. Gen. Theresa Casey (retired) was the first veterinarian to rise to that rank. The scholarship opportunities are really good and I encourage anybody who wants to join the military to go for it.”

Of the nine veterinary students connected with the armed forces, five are with the Air Force, one is in the Army, one is in the Air National Guard and one is in the Army National Guard.

Derinda Blakeney

2013 Oklahoma State University

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Will Shooting a Bazooka be Next?

OSU professor moves up the Army Reserve ranks An OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences professor has been promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Dr. Tamara Gull, an assistant professor in veterinary pathobiology, received her promotion at a ceremony during a clear April morning at the Military Veterinarian Honor Court outside McElroy Hall.

“That’s about as high as we can go unless she decides to shoot a bazooka and be a brigadier general in the infantry, and I wouldn’t put it past her,” Bartels said, drawing laughs from the assembled crowd of Gull’s students and colleagues.

Gull excels at the superhuman task of keeping up with her research in areas such as infectious respiratory diseases in cattle, “I will be taking more responsi- teaching OSU veterinary students bility in the Army Reserve. I will and maintaining her duties in the have to probably devote more of Army Reserve. my off time to it, which just means She began her military career I’ll have to work harder here so with the Navy in 1988, spending I can make time for everything,” six years in active duty before joinGull says. ing the reserve and starting veteriRetired U.S. Army Reserve Col. nary school at Tufts University. She Kenneth Bartels presented her has been in the Army Reserve Vetwith her promotion, saying he erinary Corps since 2001 — service wouldn’t be surprised if Gull, due that has taken her on veterinary to her determination and qualifi- humanitarian trips all over the cations, became a full colonel soon. world — and has a doctorate from Texas A&M.

Most recently, she deployed to Gull is thankful to OSU for supQatar and Kuwait in 2011, where porting her military career and her team worked in everything allowing her to keep her position from food safety issues to provid- at the center, noting that not all ing locals with veterinary medical employers are so accommodating. care, including helping round up She is a diplomate of the Amerand spay feral cats on a base. ican College of Veterinary Inter“The personal risk factor was nal Medicine (Large Animal), fairly low considering the part of the American College of Veterthe world we were in,” Gull says. inary Preventive Medicine and “We got a lot of good things accom- the American College of Veterplished. We got a lot of kudos from inary Microbiologists. She has our senior officers. It was a very suc- contributed to numerous articles cessful deployment.” and other publications, including As a lieutenant colonel, she’s the second edition 2013 textbook, assigned to the 321st Civil Affairs Social Vulnerability to Disasters. Her Brigade based in San Antonio. Her doctoral thesis, finished in 2007, promotion means she’ll oversee a is on the lung disease contagious larger team involved in protecting bovine pleuropneumonia, or “lung troops’ food supply abroad and plague.” She has been with the center since 2008. performing other vital tasks.

MATT ELLIOTT

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Retired U.S. Army Reserve Col. Kenneth Bartels presents Dr. Tamara Gull with her promotion to lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Army Reserve Lt. Col. Dr. Tamara Gull (left) was on hand as Sarah Keller and Kristen Kemper were commissioned into the Army as second lieutenants.

Making a Commitment to Serve “My fiancé is working on his master’s degree here at Oklahoma State,” explains Kemper. “He is very interested in becoming an entomologist in the Medical Service Corps. I knew there was a Veterinary Corps, “It was always my plan to leave the so I looked into it. For me, I think it is Navy to attend veterinary school,” a great combination of doing what I says Keller. “The long-term plan was love — veterinary medicine and servto earn my DVM degree and enter ing my country.” the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps.

On hand for the commissioning This scholarship will help make that was Dr. Tamara Gull, assistant prodream a reality.” fessor in the Department of VeteriSarah Keller and Kristen KemKemper, of Tulsa, Okla., became nary Pathobiology and a lieutenant per, both in the Class of 2016, were interested in the program through colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Gull was deployed most recently in commissioned into the U.S. Army her fiancé.

Kuwait and Qatar before returning as second lieutenants. Both students home in November 2012. were awarded three-year full scholarships in return for their service folDerinda Blakeney lowing graduation.

Students applying to veterinary college are making a solid commitment to study for the next four years to learn their trade. Upon graduation, they commit to “a lifelong obligation for the continual improvement of professional knowledge and competence” with the Veterinarian’s Oath, so they can always offer the best possible care to their veterinary patients.

This year, two OSU veterinary medicine students made one more commitment — to serve their country.

Keller, of New Cumberland, Pa., is no stranger to the service. She has already served five years in the U.S. Navy in aviation administration for the air operations command on Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla.

2013 Oklahoma State University

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Snipping Feral Feline Numbers Operation Catnip offers free neutering for ‘community cats’

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

S

The program also aims to ease the burden on local rescue group Tiny Paws Kitten Rescue as well as reduce the Stillwater shelter’s euthanization rate. Stillwater Animal Welfare Director Mary Dickey is a member of Operation Operation Catnip is a non- Catnip Stillwater’s board. profit “trap, neuter and release” Tiny Paws founder Holly Chap(TNR) organization spearheaded ples also sits on the new group’s in Stillwater by Dr. Lesa Stau- board of directors. After the first bus, clinical assistant professor in clinic, she sent out an email to shelter medicine and surgery at thank the clinic volunteers, sayOklahoma State University’s Cen- ing, “Tiny Paws Kitten Rescue loves ter for Veterinary Health Sciences. Operation Catnip! We believe that Other veterinarians, veterinary and it will help reduce the number of pre-vet students and members of orphaned neo-natal kittens that the community are also involved we rescue.” with the group.

At Operation Catnip’s first

everal dozen “community cats” are living healthier, safer lives, thanks to Operation Catnip Stillwater .

And hundreds more will be joining their feral and stray brethren this year.

Community cats are free-roaming stray or feral (wild) cats who don’t have owners. A single female cat is likely to be responsible for producing 100 cats in seven years — 100 cats who won’t have homes or owners. TNR stops this cycle, helps reduce aggressiveness in feral cats and can prevent the spread of disease to pet cats.

“Spay Day” clinic in May, 44

cats were “fixed” and vaccinated.

Although the clinic is called a spay day, volunteers neutered male cats as well. Eight more such clinics are planned throughout the school year, monthly except in December.

Brought in by volunteers who trapped them, the cats weren’t shy about voicing their displeasure that Sunday morning in May. continues

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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Future clinics scheduled Operation Catnip Stillwater clinics will be held on the second Sunday of the month. The dates are: Jan. 12, 2014 Feb. 9 March 9 April 13 May 11 To make a reservation for a stray or feral cat, email operationcatnipstillwater@gmail.com , visit www.operationcatnipstillwater.org or check the group’s Facebook page.

The volunteer medical professionals anesthetized the cats while they were still in the traps, making it safer and easier to handle the feral felines. Once out of the traps, the anesthetized cats were vaccinated, had their left ears tipped (a recognized sign that a feral cat is “fixed”) and genders checked and then were shuttled off to the right surgery table. Post-surgery, they were carefully watched until they started to wake up from the anesthesia; at that point, they were

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returned to the traps they arrived in. Those who brought them in had been given careful instructions for caring for the cats overnight before releasing them the next day.

While only 44 cats were brought in to the first clinic, the high-efficiency surgeries are set up to handle as many as 300 cats at a single clinic. It may be hard to imagine, but the clinic operates much like an assembly line: Each person does only one job, carefully and quickly.

The clinic ran smoothly with that assembly line approach. It’s a design Operation Catnip Stillwater adopted from the flagship Operation Catnip program in Gainesville, Fla. “It was wonderful!” says Staubus, who notes all 44 surgeries were done in 21/2 hours. And, she points out, that first clinic was seen as somewhat of a training situation for all involved.

PetSmart Charities offer more support PetSmart Charities approved a $23,900 grant to host pediatric spay/neuter wet labs.

The first one was held during the OSU/OVMA Summer Seminar.

The goal of the labs is to empower veterinarians with the skills to help their local animal shelters combat pet overpopulation.

“We are looking at two more at distant locations — a ‘take it to the people’ seminar,” says Dr. Lesa Staubus, clinical assistant professor in shelter medicine and surgery. “Locations include possibly OSU-OKC or a local Oklahoma City clinic. We would also like to travel to Tulsa possibly.”

“Now that we’ve got all the equipment in place and the people trained, our mission is to get the word out about upcoming clinics,” she says. The group has 300 traps to lend to help get community cats into the clinics.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Feral cats are sometimes trapped and taken to animal shelters, where they rarely come out alive due to their wild nature, Staubus says.

“We don’t have laws that mandate taking every animal to a shelter,” she says, explaining that the trapneuter-release method is the most effective, humane way to deal with colonies of community cats.

“It costs a lot less to TNR than it does to trap, hold, then euthanize,” she says. “That leaves more money available for real animal control solutions, such as helping to figure out ways to get animals spayed and neutered and counseling people on how to find new homes for animals themselves instead of dumping their unwanted pets at the shelters.”

The Stillwater program is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is not affiliated with Oklahoma State University. However, the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences donates the use of its surgical suites for the clinics, and many OSU students and faculty volunteer with the group.

F o u n d a t i o n , the S u m m e r-

lee Foundation , the Buel J.

Staton Charitable Trust and

Steve Kitson. PetSmart Char-

ities has also approved a grant for almost $60,000 for disposable supplies at the clinics — almost two years’ worth — and two student stipends of $5,000 each for the 2013Staubus is the group’s president. 14 academic year to organize the Class of 2015 students Megan monthly clinics.

“I told them in the PetSmart Dayton is the vice president and Jackie Paritte is the treasurer; grant application that I needed both also act as operations man- the funds so we could concentrate agers. Dr. Kim Carter rounds on doing the work and could stop out Operation Catnip Stillwater’s looking for money,” says Staubus. board of directors. Other CVHS Still, for the group to grow and students serve the group as volun- continue its work, more funding teer coordinators. is still needed.

There’s no charge for the surgery “I’d love to encourage cat lovers or to the caregivers or trappers who to think of us and investing in our bring in the cats. Still, each surgery work,” Staubus says. Volunteers are costs Operation Catnip around also needed for the clinics, and “no $30 just for the disposable sup- volunteer is ever turned away,” she plies. That cost is covered by dona- promises. tions. Some of the larger grants Dorothy L. Pugh have come from the Kirkpatrick

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Sogo Khemo steps lightly around his championship awards.

Champions Abound

By Derinda Blakeney

Veterinary hospital’s cutting-edge treatment helps a champion reined cow horse

The clock was already ticking when Lisa Gallery ’s horse came up lame just two months before the 2012 U.S. National Championship for Arabian Horses . A registered veterinary medical technician at OSU’s veterinary medical hospital, Gallery knew the best place for treatment was at the large animal clinic there. But could clinicians help the horse without disrupting the intense training for the national competition?

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The history Lisa Gallery is an Oklahoman.

She lives in Cushing, grew up in Tulsa and spent weekends and summers on her brother’s cattle ranch outside Bartlesville, where she learned to ride. In 1994, she began distance riding with the North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC). Arabian horses excel in this arena, and Gallery bought her first Arabian in the summer of 1997.

“When Dee told me I needed to see her 3-week-old colt, I couldn’t resist when I saw him,” Gallery says. “To be able to get Sogo, I traded some training time with the breeder, and I co-own him with Brenda Wyant, a senior accounting specialist at the veterinary medical hospital. I picked him up that fall once he was weaned.”

In 2007, Gallery started Sogo under the saddle as a 3-year-old, spending time out on the trail to prepare him for competition.

In 2009, Sogo went to his first NATRC ride. At 5 years old, he placed second. Later that year, on his second ride, he took the Open Sweepstakes.

“I went to my first Class A Arabian horse show as a spectator that fall and saw the working cow horse class,” Gallery remembers. “I put my horse in training to see if she could do it. Together, we rode to three U.S. National Top 10 Awards, “He was beginning to prove what several regional Top Five Awards and three Region 9 Championships.” a special horse he is,” Gallery says.

Gallery went on to train horses for friends and clients including breeders Art and Dee Byrd. In 2004, Dee Byrd invited Gallery to see their newest foal, Sogo Khemo.

And then winter — with its accompanying ice storms — rode into the plains of Oklahoma. continues

Pursuing a Dream Lisa Gallery graduated from Holland Hall High School in Tulsa and earned a bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology at Oklahoma State University. Always interested in veterinary medicine, she began working as a veterinary medical technician, joining OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences in 2000. She completed an online veterinary technician program at Cedar Valley College and became a Registered Veterinary Technician in 2005.

Long before her RVT career, Gallery dreamed of opening her own horse-training center.

In 2009 she made that dream a reality.

Gallery co-owns the Cowgirl Training Center in Cushing, Okla., with Brenda Wyant, a senior accounting specialist at the veterinary medical hospital. The center is doing so well that Gallery went part-time at the veterinary medical hospital in June 2012 to handle the increased business.

“At the Cowgirl Training Center, we work with all breeds and all ages,” Gallery says. “We specialize in Arabian working western horses. I enjoy seeing the horses learn. Working with colts is rewarding as you see huge strides in a short time.

“When friends or clients compete in distance events and do well, it’s nice to be able to say ‘I trained that horse,’ ” she continues. “I have one youth rider who qualified with her horse for the Youth Nationals next year in Western Pleasure. She also placed well this year in Region 4 of the NATRC in the novice junior class.”

Currently Cowgirl Training Center has 15 clients in various stages of training.

For more information, visit www.cowgirltrainingcenter. com, call 918-223-6195 or email info@ cowgirltrainingcenter.com.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Dr. Chase Whitfield (from left), Brenda Wyant, Lisa Gallery and Dr. Mike Schoonover surround Sogo Khemo.

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“By using intra-articular anesthesia, we localized Sogo’s lameness to In late December 2009, Sogo his left stifle, the anatomical equivKhemo suffered an injury that alent of the human knee,” says Dr. could have ended his career. GalMike Schoonover, assistant prolery doesn’t know how he came to fessor of equine surgery and a dipbe hurt — just that he was. lomate of the American College of “I was devastated. He came into Veterinary Surgeons – Large Anithe barn to eat and had a huge cut mal Surgery and a diplomate of on the outside of his right front the American College of Veteripastern,” just above the hoof, she nary Sports Medicine and Rehabilremembers. “I called OSU’s veteriitation. “The prognosis for this type nary medical hospital to alert them of injury is good with an extended we were coming. Dr. James Hart period of rest. However, Gallery and was the resident on duty that eveSogo didn’t have the luxury of time ning. We evaluated the injury and if they were to make it to the show.” were concerned about tendon After studying their options, integrity, nerve damage, blood supSchoonover and equine surgery ply and scar tissue formation durresident Dr. Chase Whitfield ing the healing process.” treated Sogo’s stifle with IRAP, Almost miraculously, Sogo had short for Interleukin Receptor avoided cutting any major vesAntagonist Protein. sels, nerves or tendons. The OSU “IRAP is a protein produced equine clinicians placed the horse by cells found in the horse’s in a cast for 6 weeks to immobiown blood,” explains Schoonover. lize the area to allow healing while “After collecting and processing a keeping the wound clean. small amount of Sogo’s blood, we Much like a dog recovering injected the IRAP into his left stifle from heartworm treatment must joint three times, two weeks apart. be kept very quiet, Sogo had to This type of therapy allows us to remain in his stall while the cast treat the inflammation by manipuwas on his leg. “Having such limlating the body’s own repair mechited exercise can be very challenganisms without using conventional ing for a young horse,” Gallery says. pharmaceuticals.”

“Sogo was a trooper being enter“Because IRAP is a natural protained by a stall ball and limited tein, it doesn’t have any harmful hand walks. When the cast was side effects that other anti-inflamremoved, the results were amazmatory medications may have ing. After a few more weeks in the within the joint, ” adds Whitfield. stall with his wound wrapped, he The last injection was adminisreturned to normal housing and tered about two weeks before the training.” national show.

Sogo went on to win Reserve

The injury

The Horse Sogo Khemo comes from a strong line of champions.

His sire, Kemonada, is a U.S. and Canadian National Champion Working Cow Horse that was sired by Khemosabi, a bay Arabian stallion.

Kemosabi won multiple national championships in both halter and western pleasure performance competition, which earned him the highest level achievement award offered by the Arabian Horse Association — the Legion of Masters. In the course of his breeding career, he sired more than 1,200 foals (according to the book Arabian Legends by Marian K. Carpenter). More than 300 were show champions and 75 won national championships.

When the colt was born and stood, original owner Dee Byrd waited for him to walk, saying, “So … GO,” which became part of his name, Sogo Khemo.

Champion in Region 9 Reined Cow Horse in 2011 and Champion in 2012.

The competition In late August 2012, Sogo came up lame following a training session. After a week of stall rest, he was still not 100 percent so Gallery brought him to OSU to have the experts check him out again.

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pattern and the boxing portion and turns on the fence of cow work. Having a weak stifle would not allow Sogo to perform to his potential and could cause further injury or a fall if he were to compensate for this injury.”

The question loomed in Gallery’s mind: Would he recover in time to go to Nationals?

The finish “Quickly, following his treatment, Sogo resumed training stopping and turning around harder than he had done prior to his injury,” Gallery says. “I was very happy with the treatment and the results.”

Sogo and Gallery made it to the competition — and won.

“Without the correct treatment plan, we would not have made the national show,” Gallery says.

“Dr. Schoonover is responsible for bringing the IRAP system to the veterinary medical hospital and keeping OSU on the cutting edge.

The clinicians at OSU are champions themselves. They do amazing work, and I highly recommend their services.”

“Lisa and Sogo deserve all the credit for this great horse’s accomplishment,” Schoonover says. “I do take pride in the fact that we were able to help this horse go on and compete at a high level. My goal — whether it is a big-time show horse or a child’s play-day horse — is to return an injured or unsound horse to its prior level of competition without risking further injury.”

“We had to miss the Tulsa State At 8 years of age, Sogo Khemo Fair, which most riders consider is the 2012 National Champion as the true warm-up for Nationals in Arabian Reined Cow Horse — as the competition is held in the a title Gallery looks forward to same arena,” says Gallery. “Rein- defending. ing horses and cow horses like “Sogo is still new to the sport Sogo put a tremendous amount and has many years of competition of stress on the hind limbs, partic- left,” says Gallery. “I look for him to ularly the stifles when doing deep continue to improve over the next stops required in both the reining couple of years, so I think he has a good shot at keeping this title for several years.”

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Sogo Khemo’s award for being named the

2012 National Champion in Arabian Reined Cow Horse.

Regenerative Medicine in Equine Practice The OSU Veterinary Medical Hospital offers a number of regenerative medicine treatments for equine athletes. These treatments aim to repair or replace damaged tissue using the patient’s own blood or tissue:

IRAP (Interleukin Receptor Antagonist Protein) is

PRP (platelet rich plasma) is taken from whole blood and can be injected into damaged tissues or applied topically to wounds to enhance the healing process.

tissue (fat) or bone marrow and has the potential to

also obtained from whole blood and contains a high concentration of anti-inflammatory proteins. Its usage has had positive results in injured joints and tissues.

ASC (adult stem cell) therapy involves processing adipose

mature into many different tissue types depending on the environment. These cells also contribute to tissue healing by attracting certain growth factors to improve the healing process.

Collection, processing and application of PRP and IRAP

can usually be completed within 48 hours. ASC therapy may require a longer time between stem cell harvest and application.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 405-744-7000.

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‘You’ve Gotta Have Heart’ Murmur can’t keep a good horse — or his owner — down

Sunday Best better known as Foxy, is ridden by Tess Von Hemel at the A and AA July Go Shows. He was champion the first week and reserve champion the second week in the Thoroughbred Division.

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The diagnosis devastated thoroughbred horse owner Robin Von Hemel of Piedmont, Okla. Her 14-year-old daughter, Tess, spent the night crying, inconsolable after hearing the news. Their horse, Sunday Best, better known as Foxy, was at the veterinarian’s for a routine visit. At the age of 22, the horse was a picture of health that had been winning Hunter classes with Tess for the entire five years they had owned him.

Had he taken his last jump?

Would he be able to compete?

If so, at what level?

With more questions than answers, Von Hemel turned to OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences for help.

“Foxy was referred to the center’s Veterinary Medical Hospital

by Dr. Kim Rassmussen, the horse’s regular veterinarian, earlier this year,” recalls Todd Holbrook, DVM, diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. “During a routine exam, Foxy’s veterinarian heard a significant heart murmur.

Upon his arrival, we performed an ultrasound of Foxy’s heart (echocardiography) to determine the cause of the murmur and evaluate his chamber sizes for evidence of compensation.”

Echocardiography revealed Foxy’s murmur was caused by aortic insufficiency, also referred to by its initials, AI.

“AI is more common in horses Foxy’s age, and the condition tends to slowly progress,” says Holbrook. “The murmur is caused by a leaky aortic valve on the left side of the horse’s heart. As the severity of leakage worsens over time, the heart tends to enlarge, and the horse can become exercise intolerant. Horses can also develop abnormal heart rhythms with this condition that could also impact performance, or in a worst-case scenario, cause collapse and sudden death.”

Holbrook and Pete Streck, a fourth-year veterinary student assigned to Foxy’s case, traveled to Piedmont to monitor Foxy in action.

“We used a telemetric ECG device,” says Holbrook. “We gave Tess a battery-powered transmitter to slip into her pocket, which transmits the ECG signal back to a computer via Bluetooth technology. The electrodes or leads were hooked to the horse under his girth. Now all Foxy and Tess had to do was work over jumps, and we “Tess rides Foxy four or five days a would be able to watch his heart week; she loves it,” says Von Hemel. rhythm on the monitor to evalu“They have been such a good team ate the rate and rhythm in response together and have done so well. We to exercise.” want to do everything we need to continues do for him.”

Holbrook decided to keep Foxy overnight and place a heart monitor on him to evaluate him for an abnormal heart rhythm or rate at rest.

all photos / Untacked photography

“The next step was to record Foxy’s heart rate when he’s ‘working’ or jumping with Tess on board,” explains Holbrook.

“I didn’t want to put any further stress on Foxy by putting him on a treadmill,” says Von Hemel. “And I won’t let Tess jump him unless our trainer, Missy Davis, is in the ring with Tess and Foxy. Dr. Holbrook, who is just wonderful, graciously agreed to bring a portable device to our indoor training ring so he could test Foxy.”

Yo u’v e g o t t a h av e h e a r t A ll you really need is hear t W h e n t h e o d d s a r e s ay i n’ y o u’ l l n e v e r w i n T h a t ’s w h e n t h e g r i n s h o u l d s t a r t Richard Adler

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“Foxy jumped 17 jumps in a row, which is many more than he would jump during a normal show.

He did fine,” beams Von Hemel.

“He is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of horse. Dr. Holbrook was amazed that Foxy was in such great shape for his age.”

“Currently, based on echocardiography, Foxy’s valvular insufficiency is not severe. He is tolerating it well,” says Holbrook. “In addition, by performing an exercise stress test while recording his heart rhythm, we were able to see that even though he was worked hard over fences, he showed no exercise intolerance, and on the telemetric ECG, there were no abnormal rhythms noted during or after exercise.”

AI is very common, and Holbrook offers the following advice to horse owners everywhere.

“The key is early recognition and monitoring over time,” says Holbrook. “Prior to the horse’s development of significantly altered cardiac function, your regular veterinarian will most likely note a characteristic murmur during a routine examination. Many horses can continue their jobs with this condition. It is dependent upon Von Hemel and her daughter both the demands of exercise in are relieved. Since Holbrook vis- whatever sport they perform, as ited the training arena in January, well as the severity at the time of Foxy and Tess have competed in diagnosis, and the progression of two shows. the condition. We wish Foxy and “Both shows had large divisions Tess many successful shows in the of competitors,” says Von Hemel. future.”

Derinda Blakeney “Foxy and Tess came in Reserve Champion both times. Nothing has changed in Foxy’s performance; it’s just that now we know about the heart murmur.”

“ T e s s r i d e s F ox y f o u r o r f i v e days a w e e k ; s h e lov e s i t. T h e y h av e b e e n s u c h a g o o d t e a m to g e t h e r a n d h av e d o n e s o w e l l . W e wa n t to d o e v e ry t h i n g w e n e e d to d o f o r h i m .”

— Robin Von Hemel

Above inset: Tess Von Hemel with Foxy. Foxy is under OSU’s care for his heart murmur.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

“Dr. Liu’s lab has done a lot o f to p n otc h s t u d i e s i n m i c r o RNA , w h i c h i s a v e ry h ot a n d interesting area in the biomedical arena. I am a lways g r at e fu l t h at I c a n s t u dy at OS U .”

Xiao Xiao received a $50,000 award from the American Heart

— Xiao xiao

Association Southwest affiliate.

Helping Human Health Doctoral student studies what makes pulmonary fibrosis tick in OSU lab While at medical school in China, Xiao Xiao developed an interest in basic research and decided to pursue a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences. In August 2009, he arrived at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences to study in the Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory under the guidance of the lab’s director Lin Liu, Ph.D., Regents professor in the Department of Physiological Sciences.

“OSU is an internationally recognized university,” says Xiao, a native of Chengdu, China. “Dr. Liu’s lab has done a lot of top-notch studies in microRNA, which is a very hot and interesting area in the biomedical arena. I am always grateful that I can study at OSU.”

Xiao is one of only 14 students in the first cycle of 2012 competition to receive a $50,000 predoctoral fellowship from the American Heart Association Southwest Affiliate. Selected from a pool of 61 applicants, Xiao

In addition to Liu, Xiao’s graduate program advisory team consists of Dr. Chris Ross, associate dean for academic affairs, Dr. Myron “Due to the poor understanding Hinsdale, assistant professor of of the origin and the development physiological sciences, both at the of pulmonary fibrosis, the treat- veterinary center, and Dr. Junpeng EMT, short for epithelial mes- ment for the disease is still very lim- Deng , associate professor with enchymal transition, may cause ited,” adds Xiao. “There’s no proven OSU’s Department of Biochemis“fibrosis” or deposits in the walls effective treatment for IPF except try and Molecular Biology. of lungs. Xiao has determined for a lung transplant. The median that a small functional RNA — survival range is very low, from 2½ microRNA-424 — is increased to 3½ years. Understanding the Finding a cause during EMT. role of microRNA-424 in IPF may The cause of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is “We are trying to identify the lead to new therapeutic targets for unknown. It usually affects role(s) of microRNA-424 in this the treatment of this disease.” people age 50 and over and process,” explains Xiao. “SimulXiao’s grant is not the first one deposits collagen in the pulmonary space in the lungs, taneously, we are trying to iden- the OSU lab has received from the mainly alveoli walls. tify what regulates the level of American Heart Association. In microRNA-424 in cells.” the past nine years, the association The Pulmonary Fibrosis has awarded the lab six pre-docDefining microRNAs F o u n d a t i o n estimates that toral fellowships totaling $284,000.

MicroRNAs are tiny 128,000 people in the United Since its establishment in 2000, molecules that bind to genes Liu’s lab has trained 16 Ph.D. stuStates are affected by pulmonary and may biologically alter a species’ function. fibrosis. The symptoms include dents and 20 postdoctoral fellows fever, labored breathing with in pulmonary research. will receive $25,000 a year for two years to study microRNAs and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — to understand the mechanisms of the chronic, progressive lung disease. Specifically, he is studying one possible mechanism called EMT.

inspiratory crackles (crackling noise when a person inhales and continues through more than half of the inhaling process).

exertion, chronic cough, and late

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Fear No More OSU’s medical staff helped save young colt’s life, but it took his owner to revive his love

Elliot, a young paint foal, went from being scared to death of people to being so comfortable that he walked right in his owner’s kitchen door. The fear was understandable — he faced a medical challenge early on.

“He was born Feb. 9, 2011. By the time he was a week old, Elliot was limping,” says owner Deana Seeley of Shawnee, Okla. “He had been up and nursed early on, but I knew something was wrong.”

Seeley’s regular veterinarian put Elliot on antibiotics and referred her to OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital in Stillwater.

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

“ E l l i ot wa s g r a d u a l ly r e t u r n e d to n o r m a l ac t i v i t y.

H e i s n ot l a m e a n d i s a s h e a lt h y and sound as c a n b e . W e s aw a d r a m at i c i m p r ov e m e n t ov e r t h e c o u r s e o f h i s t r e at m e n t.

F o r a f oa l to s ta r t w i t h t wo major problems a n d h av e n o s i g n o f i t t wo y e a r s l at e r i s a m a z i n g .”

brought to OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital in Stillwater for a limp. Dr. Todd Holbrook took the lead in treating the young horse.

Five days after being admitted, Elliot was anesthetized for arthroscopic exploration of his right stifle.

“OCD occurs while the foal’s bones are developing at the interface of soft cartilage and mineralized bone. If this process does not proceed normally, a thickened piece of cartilage or cartilage and bone develops that is not well attached to the underlying bone. This abnormal piece loosens over time causing inflammation, which can lead to an excessive amount of joint fluid or swelling,” adds Holbrook.

“The joint spaces were thoroughly flushed, and some damaged Elliot returned to OSU’s vetercartilage was removed. After surgery, Elliot continued on IV anti- inary hospital again in May 2012.

“We had about 15 horses at the biotics for six more days followed Up until now, he had been hand time but had never been to OSU’s by three weeks of intra-muscular walked for exercise. veterinary hospital,” she says. “We “This time radiographs of the antibiotics to treat his bone infecwere very pleased with the services,” right stifle were normal,” says tion,” says Holbrook. she adds.

And so the young horse’s fear Holbrook. “Elliot was gradually “Elliot was 19 days old when he grew. Every time a person would returned to normal activity. He came in with multiple joint swellis not lame and is as healthy and come near, he would shy away. ings,” recalls Todd Holbrook , “Elliot hated people,” says Seeley. sound as can be. We saw a dramatic DVM, equine section chief at “He really did. When you would improvement over the course of OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital. approach him, he was afraid you his treatment. For a foal to start “Our examination determined that were going to draw blood or give with two major problems and he had two major problems — an him a shot. He had so much of that have no sign of it two years later infected right stifle joint [located is amazing.” during his hospital stay.” on the upper hind leg], as well as “All I can say, is never give up,” But Seeley was able to cure that an infection that led to a fracture says Seeley. “At one point it was after Elliot was discharged on in his left front fetlock.” recommended that we euthanize March 10, 2011.

Holbrook’s team continued the him. Elliot was so sick, and there “Once I got him home, I just loved antibiotics and used short-acting were no guarantees that surgery on him,” says Seeley. “That’s what I anesthetics to immobilize the colt would help. Today, his x-ray looks daily to flush the joint pouches do with all my horses. They all think perfect. He’s no longer wary of peoin his right stifle and treat his left they are dogs.” ple. We’re grateful to Dr. Holbrook Elliot returned to Stillwater in and the many people who helped front leg.

January 2012 for a follow-up visit. Elliot. He’s going to make someone “The fracture on his left front a great show horse.” fetlock was healed. Radiographs And in late February, Seeley sold of the stifle revealed OCD or Elliot — with full disclosure of his osteochondritis dissecans, which history — to new owners, who is a relatively common develop- plan to show him in western pleamental disease that affects many sure classes. young horses of all types,” reports Derinda Blakeney Holbrook.

— Deana Seeley

Elliot, owned by Deana Seeley (right), was

“After we flushed the stifle, we put intra-articular antibiotics in the joint space,” says Holbrook. For the bone infection, a regional intravenous antibiotic administration was used while a tourniquet was placed around Elliot’s left front leg.

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Dr. Mark Rochat has helped Chris Borden keep Morgan, his German shepherd service dog, healthy since 2005.

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

A Lifelong Bond OSU veterinary hospital helps service dog keep working

By Derinda Blakeney

During her hospital stay, Chris and Janet stayed in a nearby hotel than merely a boy and his dog. so they could visit Morgan daily.

After all, the German shepherd “When she was in the hospital service dog gave the young man that was the longest time we have his life back. ever been separated,” says Chris.

The bond between Chris Bor-

den and Miss Morgan is far more

And so, nearly 10 years later, it’s “What we are up here for today is Chris who is doing all he can for nothing compared to what she has Morgan. She is going on 13 years been through. I have taken her outold and has been to OSU’s vet- side in a sling five times a day for erinary hospital many times. Dr. months when she was recovering Mark Rochat, small animal sur- before. She has taken care of me gery section chief and the Cohn and I am going to take care of her.”

Family Chair for Small Animal Morgan did recover from her Care in the Department of Veter- hip surgery but, unfortunately, that inary Clinical Sciences at OSU’s wouldn’t be her last trip to OSU. veterinary hospital, first treated “We also treated Morgan for cerMorgan in 2005. vical disc issues and lumbosacral “We were dog novices,” says disease. Her latest visit was for a Janet Borden, Chris’ mom. “We vaginal infection,” says Rochat. thought she had a ‘hitch in her get“Dr. Rochat, the hospital staff up’ because she never complained. and the veterinary students have Morgan just did her job faithfully, been so important and we really never a whine or a whimper; no appreciate all they have done for us sign she was in pain. She just kept and for Morgan,” says Janet. “Stuchecking in with Chris making dents assigned to her case would sure he was okay. We had no idea go out of their way to see that Chris she needed veterinary care. When could be with Morgan, and they our regular veterinarian referred would carefully teach Chris how to us to OSU, we didn’t hesitate to care for her. We are forever grateful.” bring her in.”

“When Morgan dislocated a disc “Morgan had severe hip dyspla- in her spine, she needed constant sia,” reports Dr. Rochat. “Instead of care,” says Chris. “I worked with having joints that were rounded my instructors so I could finish like a ball and socket, hers tended my coursework without attendto be more flat, causing her dis- ing class so I could stay home and comfort when she moved. We take care of her. Morgan was always replaced both of Morgan’s hips.” there to take care of me. It was my privilege to reciprocate.”

In the Beginning Janet Borden knew something wasn’t right with her son by the time he was 2.

it up so hard I ended up whacking myself in the face! Ignoring her was impossible.”

If Chris felt a panic attack comAs a youngster Chris was tested for a myriad of disorders — non- ing on, he simply said, “Paws up.” verbal learning, dyslexia, attention Morgan would put her paws in deficit, autism— and was treated Chris’ lap and lean into him until with numerous therapies and med- he felt calmer. During a full-blown panic attack, the command “lap up” ications, none of which helped.

By the time he was 13, Chris would bring Morgan bounding was targeted by bullies and even- into Chris’ lap for a full-body press tually pulled out of school. It until his anxiety subsided.

“Morgan was trained to walk slightly ahead of Chris to widen his Morgan was 3 years old when personal space in crowds,” explains she moved into the Borden house- Janet. “She solicited attention from hold. A trainer helped lay the anyone who approached Chris, groundwork for the relation- placing herself solidly between ship between Chris and Mor- Chris and other people, unless gan. Morgan was to check in with Chris told her not to visit.”

Within 1½ years from moving Chris regularly, and Chris was to acknowledge the dog so that in, Morgan had such a positive she would know he was alert and effect on Chris that he was able to not only leave the house but to doing well.

“Morgan would nudge your make his first public presentation. hand with her nose and some- He has since spoken on autism, times flip your hand up until you bullying, assistive technology and acknowledged her,” says Chris. “I service dogs to a variety of orgawas working on my computer nizations and in various venues once and had my hand on the including the Oklahoma Autism computer mouse. Morgan put her Conference, Tulsa public schools, nose under my hand and flipped and the Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities.

was believed Chris suffered from Asperger’s syndrome.

continues

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

“ D r . R o c h at, t h e h o s p i ta l s ta ff a n d t h e v e t e r i n a r y s t u d e n t s h av e b e e n s o i m p o r ta n t a n d w e r e a l ly a p p r e c i at e a l l t h e y h av e d o n e f o r u s a n d f o r M o r g a n .”

— Janet Borden

“It’s a night and day difference,” says Chris. “It is difficult to truly convey how affected I was by Asperger’s. I tell kids with disabilities to not let your disability get in the way of achieving your dreams.

If your dream is like mine — to earn a degree — even if they’re only able to take one class at a time, go for it!”

Strong Bond “Soon after Morgan was part of our lives, I took Chris and his younger brother, Chase, to a local swimming area,” says Janet. “The boys were swimming and I stayed back holding Morgan on a leash just on the water’s edge where we could wade. I was so happy to be doing something ‘normal’ like every other family. Next thing I know, Morgan has backed out of her collar and I see her swimming from person to person in the water looking for Chris. It was time for her to check in with him and she didn’t know where he was so she went looking. I had Chris call out to Morgan and she swam straight to him.

Her latest visit is no exception.

While Morgan is no longer officially a service dog for Chris, it seems she chooses to not understand that. At Oklahoma State University’s Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital on a summer day in 2012 for a follow-up medical visit, she lies on the cool reception floor strategically placed between her “charge” and anyone who might step from the elevator or small animal reception counter toward Chris. Her eyes never stop moving, watching the hustle and bustle of the veterinary hospital, glancing over her shoulder to make sure Chris is still there. Every now and then, she glances at Chris’ mom, but it is Chris she was commissioned to care for and care she does.

“It’s incredible to see the young man before me today and remember the child,” says Janet. “They have taken such good care of each other for the past nine years.”

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Chris Borden and Morgan, his German shepherd service dog, have been together for 10 years.

“I prefer herding breeds like Though “retired” from service, German shepherds or border col- Morgan will live out her life with lies,” Chris says. “There is a big dif- Chris. ference in the energy level of the Chris, Janet and Morgan leave two dogs. Morgan overwhelmingly OSU’s veterinary hospital with ignores Britta.” medication and instructions how Chris looks at the list of more to care for Morgan’s infection. than a dozen “tasks” that Morgan They may have to bring her back was trained to do for him. for another surgery if the infection doesn’t clear. If they do return, it “I only need her to do about two “When Morgan came to live with will be more than a boy — now a us in 2003, I hadn’t been out of the of those anymore,” says Chris. “Peoman — and his dog. It will be two house for eight months,” recalls ple usually say ‘hi’ to Morgan long lifelong friends, two partners who Chris. “That’s hard especially for a before they even acknowledge me. gave each other what they needed. young teenager. I was just border- I’m now a 23-year-old fairly norIt will be the human-animal bond line nonverbal. The anxiety would mal guy.” at its pinnacle. be intensive enough to make Looking at Chris, his mother me sick. I would panic if I even smiles as she says, “I am proud of thought about going out.” him and how he takes care of Mor-

Chris is now training a new gan and the respect he gives her. service dog, a chocolate Labrador She has paid her dues. It’s time for retriever named Britta. The dog Britta to step in. It isn’t because was acquired through High Aim Morgan is older now that she no Assistance Dogs, a volunteer orga- longer does all the things on that nization that works to pair people list, Chris. It’s because you don’t with disabilities like autism with need her to do that anymore; it’s because she healed you.” trained service dogs.

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For Life

Stacy Barron

“We are forever g r at e f u l to D r .

C u n n i n g ham , A ma n da H e l l e r — th e v e t e r i n a ry st u d e n t wh o sp e n t days ov e r th e h o l i day weekend watch i n g Da i sy — a n d th e h o sp i ta l sta f f.”

— Julie Zimmerly

Daisy, a 7-year-old heeler rescued by an Arkansas family, was saved from eating rat poison by quick work at OSU’s Small Animal Clinic last Thanksgiving.

Giving Thanks Arkansas family grateful for OSU clinic’s speed, savvy This Thanksgiving, an Arkansas family is grateful for the life-saving efforts that OSU’s Small Animal Clinic gave their dog just before last year’s holiday.

By Wednesday, Zimmerly, her “When Daisy came in, she was husband Chad and son Cash dying of a pulmonary hemorrhage were back at the veterinary clinic and was essentially bleeding out,” because the 7-year-old heeler, a res- says Cunningham. “I gave her parcue dog, had stopped eating. ents a 50/50 chance she would The Monday before Thanks“While we were there, Daisy make it. The biggest problem was giving 2012, Julie Zimmerly of started urinating blood,” adds her lungs. Getting the bleeding Bentonville, Ark., noticed her Zimmerly. “The veterinarian told under control by replacing blood dog Daisy was having difficulty us to leave now and take her to and plasma is straightforward, but filling your air spaces with blood Stillwater.” breathing. can’t be reversed easily.”

Three hours later, the Zimmer“We took Daisy to the veterinary Daisy had ingested rat bait, ER and they did an x-ray,” says Zim- lys arrived at the Small Animal which blocks the clotting factors merly. “We thought it might be Clinic, with Daisy in critical conactivated by vitamin K and can pneumonia. We followed up with dition. Dr. Lauren Cunningham, cause hemorrhaging throughout a visit to our veterinarian, who a third-year small animal internal ordered a fungal panel that was medicine resident, was assigned sent to OSU.” the case.

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the body — in the GI tract, anywhere in the abdomen, into the lungs, under the skin.

“The problem is that it usually takes 48 hours or more to see the full effects of eating the poison so unless the ingestion is witnessed, many people don’t know their animal is sick until it is bleeding substantially,” explains Cunningham.

“In Daisy’s case, she was bleeding into her lungs making it very difficult for her to exchange oxygen.

If her condition had not improved, the next step would have been putting her on a ventilator to help her breathe.”

Photo Provided

Photo Provided

Radley, a blood-donor dog at OSU’s Small Animal Clinic greets Cash Zimmerly while Cash’s family dog, Daisy, was being treated.

“It is important that owners be wary of where they place rat bait, such as d-Con, especially if it is in an area where dogs are allowed to roam,” cautions Cunningham. “If “The amount of transfusions an otherwise healthy dog starts Daisy received is average for this coughing or vomiting blood, condition,” adds Cunningham. develops large swelling over sites “Since she had been bleeding of relatively mild damage, etc., for days, her bone marrow was exposure should be questioned. already making new red blood This is treatable but the animal cells as well. We placed her in an needs to be seen quickly and at a oxygen tent and sedated her to try place with access to blood, plasma to keep her calm. Her lungs basi- and injectable vitamin K.” “A week before Daisy started cally just needed time. She took a turn for the better on Sunday and coughing and having trouble was released from our Kirkpatrick breathing, we had been to our Foundation Small Animal Crit- cabin north of Eureka Springs, ical Care Unit seven days after Ark.,” says Zimmerly. “We had put out mouse poison, being very careshe arrived.”

Cunningham says Daisy has a ful to place it where Daisy could great long-term prognosis with no not get to it. What we didn’t even ill effects, but she warns that other consider was the fact that the mice pet owners might not be so lucky. could move that poison around.

Apparently that’s what happened, and Daisy ate some of it.

Within the first two hours of her arrival, Daisy received a little more than a unit of whole blood and a double unit of plasma along with a large amount of vitamin K.

“We are forever grateful to Dr. Cunningham, Amanda Heller — the veterinary student who spent days over the holiday weekend watching Daisy — and the hospital staff,” Zimmerly adds. “I always appreciated veterinarians, but I was so amazed how quickly Dr. Cunningham jumped to the rescue.

She had a blood transfusion going in no time and knew just what to do to save Daisy. This Thanksgiving we were thankful for things we didn’t know we would be thankful for — like Radley, the blood donor dog that donated blood for Daisy’s transfusion, and the veterinary hospital.

“We really appreciate everything OSU did for our dog; it was a wonderful experience to know Daisy was in such good hands,” adds Zimmerly.

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Cardiac Concerns Owner discovers even little dogs can have big heart problems

Dr. Ryan Baumwart

treated Maddie and Tootsie for cardiac problems. The Veterinary Medical Hospital clinician is the state’s only small-animal cardiologist.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Dog owner Clifford McWilliams is singing the praises of OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital, especially the skills of Dr. Ryan Baumwart, DACVIM (Cardiology), assistant professor of cardiology and one of the newest clinicians on staff at the hospital.

“I was ready to put Maddie to sleep because I didn’t think anything could be done for her. You saved my little girl’s life,” says McWilliams of Owasso, Okla.

Maddie, McWilliams’ 10-yearold tan-and-white Shih Tzu, was suffering from episodes of coughing and occasional fainting.

Maddie’s coughing had become more frequent, and McWilliams noticed that the dog was less active and often slept very deeply.

“I took Maddie to Dr. Melissa

“She hasn’t curled her tail up in months,” adds McWilliams.

Eads at VCA Woodland Central

Animal Hospital in Tulsa,” explains McWilliams. “Dr. Eads discovered fluid in Maddie’s lungs and suggested that I take her to OSU where a cardiologist was on staff.

Driving from Tulsa to Stillwater, Maddie had another episode. He saved her life.”

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“The radiographs we received from Dr. Eads showed Maddie’s heart was enlarged and that she had gone into congestive heart failure,” says Baumwart.

Clifford McWilliams

“ OS U g av e me 30 more g r e at days w i t h Maddie, and I am forever g r at e fu l .”

— Clifford McWilliams

Despite being treated for congestive heart failure at OSU, Maddie (the tan-and-white dog) didn’t make it. Her sister, Tootsie, is under OSU’s care but hasn’t developed the same problems.

“With cardiac ultrasound [echocardiography], we were able to determine that Maddie was suffering from severe mitral valve degeneration and severe pulmonary hypertension. The mitral valve degeneration was causing the mitral valve to leak and subsequently caused the heart to enlarge and fail. The pulmonary hypertension was causing her to faint,” adds Baumwart.

Baumwart prescribed several medications for Maddie to help treat her condition.

“I went home, cut the pills according to the doses prescribed and gave Maddie her first dose at 4 p.m. that day,” recalls McWilliams. “The next morning at 4 a.m., I gave her the second dose.

Dr. Baumwart thought it would take her two to three days to show signs of improvement, but Maddie was noticeably better within just 12 hours! She has been a new dog. She’s playing, eating, her tail is curling up; my prayers were answered.”

A semi-retired trailer design engineer, Clifford finds a great deal of enjoyment in Maddie and her sister, Tootsie, who is black and white. He acquired the littermate Shih Tzus when they were 7 weeks old.

Unfortunately, a month after her treatment began, Maddie passed away.

“OSU gave me 30 more great days with Maddie, and I am forever grateful,” says McWilliams.

He was so happy with Mad“I know two other owners whose die’s care that after she passed, dogs have heart problems,” says McWilliams was back in BaumMcWilliams. “I tell them that they wart’s office with Tootsie. Eads need to bring their dogs to see Dr. had heard a heart murmur during Baumwart. He’s a great guy and he Tootsie’s physical exam and based knows his stuff. They think it will on her sister’s health history, the cost thousands of dollars to bring owner was not taking any chances. their dog to OSU. The truth is that “We are doing an ultrasound on the OSU visit cost less than the Tootsie, so we can look at every visits to the clinics where Maddie part of her heart,” says Baumwart. has been treated before. And the “Tootsie’s heart disease is not nearly other clinics don’t have the equip- as bad as Maddie’s. She has a very ment that OSU has, and they don’t small leakage on her mitral valve. have a cardiologist. Dr. Baumwart The size of her heart is normal, is the only small-animal cardiolo- her blood pressure is normal. It’s gist in the state.” good that we are catching things ”Mitral valve degeneration, also in the early stage. I see no need to called endocardiosis, is very com- put Tootsie on any medication at mon in smaller breed dogs and this time.” older dogs,” says Baumwart. “There “You hear that, Tootsie? You’re is a chance her twin sister, Tootsie, going to be around for a long time,” could develop congestive heart McWilliams says, petting the little failure. Hopefully this pair of dog to keep her still during the dogs will stay active and healthy ultrasound. for some time to come.”

Derinda Blakeney

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Genessee Photo

Katy Bailey (left) received the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences’ Dean Harry Orr Award. With her is Judi Baker, Dean Orr’s granddaughter.

Orr Award goes to Indiana student Katy Bailey grew up in rural northwest Indiana, where people looked up to the local veterinarians.

She remembers having pygmy goats as pets. One day, one of them died from an infection.

“They had a really positive role in the community, as well,” Bailey says of her hometown of Lowell, a town of about 9,200 people about 60 miles south of Chicago. “They were involved in the 4-H program, too. I just saw them as a role model to kids in the community — especially to me.”

Bailey, who was in fourth grade at the time, remembers spending a lot of time at the vet trying to save the animal. Looking back, she is struck by how hard the vet worked to save a little girl’s pet goat.

Bailey, who received the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences’ Dean Harry Orr Award, grew up on a farm. Her family grew corn and soybeans and raised cattle; their vets were friends who protected their livelihood.

“You employ them to a certain extent, but you’re also friends with them,” Bailey says.

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“It really impacted me,” she says.

She credits her parents with encouraging her to go in to veterinary medicine. Her mother, a fourthgrade teacher, had always wanted to become a veterinary technician but instead chose teaching.

When it came time to attend college, Bailey decided to study animal science at Purdue University and chose OSU for her veterinary education because of its strong food-animal program.

The fourth-year student was in her first rotations last summer, working at OSU’s equine breeding farm, caring for horses all day.

Bailey says she plans on becoming a large animal veterinarian in such a practice where she can enjoy the outdoors.

She praises the college for its food animal and equine veterinary clinicians, especially Drs. Lyndi Gilliam and Katie Simpson (who left OSU for Ohio State last spring), describing them as “awesome.”

The Dean Harry Orr Award features a $2,500 scholarship and is named for the second dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. Orr led the college from 1953 until his death in 1956.

Matt Elliott

genesse Photo

Penny Regier (center) celebrates the McElroy Award with the late dean’s granddaughter, Patricia McElroy, and her nephew, Steven McElroy.

2013 McElroy Award Winner Took Her Time “The dog needed surgery a cou“When they announced my name, I was honestly surprised. My heart ple of times during my small aniwas pounding out of my chest. I mal surgery rotation,” Regier recalls. didn’t want to cry because my “It had to spend two weeks in the friends were nearby, and I knew hospital and was such a sweet dog. they would tease me forever. I was Its owners were older and on top of the dog’s health issues, the genreally shocked.”

“When I finished my undergrad Regier is interested in small-ani- tleman was having medical problems. The drastic improvement in work, I just wanted to go earn mal surgery. the dog after surgery was amazing. some money,” says Regier. “I got “What I like most about vetIt was so happy, and the owners married and wanted to work. I erinary medicine is the interacwere so grateful. It was wonderful have always liked marine life, so I tion with the animals. I love to see to be part of that — I love it.” got a job at the Oklahoma Aquar- the improvement and know that Following graduation, Regier ium, which I really liked. But after it was something I did in surgery. four years, I was ready to go back When a patient comes out of sur- is off to Colorado State University to school.” gery, they look like a new dog. You for a yearlong small animal rotatThe transition was hard at first, see how happy the owners are and ing internship.

“My husband travels for his job, and it meant that Penny and hus- the animal itself, and that is really so he will be able to split his time band Jake Regier were separated. rewarding.”

“I worked really hard and stayed One case that stands out as and spend two weeks a month with focused,” she adds. special in Regier’s young career me in Colorado. That’s more than And that hard work paid off as involves a schnauzer and its owners. I see him now,” she says. “After the internship, I plan to apply for a surRegier was named the 2013 Dean gery residency.”

Clarence H. McElroy Award

Penny Regier of Tulsa, Okla., was home-schooled and earned her bachelor’s degree in zoology from Oklahoma State University.

Although she had always thought about being a veterinarian, she didn’t pursue that career right away.

As Regier prepares to graduate, she offers these words of advice to incoming veterinary students: “Make the most of the opportunities that come along. Don’t look at it as more work. Four years isn’t really that long. Be nice to your classmates; they can help you a lot.

Learn all you can and take advantage of every opportunity you have.”

In addition to the McElroy Award, Regier also received an American College of Veterinary Surgeons Award, a Robert G. and Karen F. Beach Scholarship , a Butch and Luella Ruth Curtis Educational Fund Award, and the Gentle

Doctor Award. She is the daugh-

ter of Greg and Terri Hlubek of Oklahoma City. continues

winner.

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Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence Sixty years ago, the Dean Clarence H.

McElroy Award was established in honor of the college’s first dean. Fellow classmates and fourth-year faculty choose the recipients annually. Historically recipients are in the top of their class and exhibit professionalism, leadership and an overall exuberance for the veterinary medical profession.

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the most prestigious honor bestowed upon an OSU veterinary student, all previous recipients were invited to attend the veterinary center’s annual awards banquet in 2013.

An even dozen previous recipients returned to Stillwater to mark the occasion with a group photo and to congratulate the 2013 recipient. Dr. Fred

Ferguson , the 1963 recipient, was unable to travel from State College, Pa., but he did share his thoughts on how the esteemed award impacted his life.

“The Dean McElroy Award has always been one of my prized awards,” says Ferguson. “The plaque has a continuing place over my desk. The fact that it was an award determined by my classmates, as well as the

1954 Paul Edmundson*

1969 Michael Lorenz

1955 Robert Hudson

1970 Larry Nolen

faculty I had spent four years of my life with, makes it

1956 Donald Callicott

1971 Lawrence McTague

very special.”

1957 Gus Thornton*

1972 Kenneth Neuens

1959 Robert Laves

1974 Bill Schaefer

1960 Raymond “Gene” White

1975 David Helms

1961 James VanBeckum

1976 Steven Vonderfecht

nephew, the dean’s great-grandson, Steve n

1962 Doyne Hamm*

1977 Thomas Richardson

McElroy .

1963 Frederick Ferguson

1978 J. Keith Flanagan*

1964 Larry Swango

1979 Terry Lehenbauer

On hand to present the 2013 award and celebrate the 60th anniversary were Patricia McElroy , granddaughter of Dean McElroy , and her

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Dean Clarence H. McElroy Award Recipients

C e n t e r f o r Ve t e r i n a r y H e a l t h S c i e n c e s

1958 Robert Spragg*

1973 Hartford Hamilton

1965 Joe Davis

1979 Michael Diesen*

1966 Danny Hudson

1980 Bruce Rosier

1967 William Hornbuckle

1981 Michael Lappin

1968 Vernon Thornton

1982 John Link

Genessee Photo

1983 John Stein

1998 Melanie Breshears

1984 Thomas VanGundy

1999 Julie Augustine

1985 Kenneth Abrams

2000 Martin Trerise

1986 Michael Nichols

2001 John Gilliam

1987 Robert Streeter

2002 Robert Monin

1988 Mark Hoffman

2003 Kathy Snyder

1989 William James

2004 Eva Welch

1990 John Otto

2005 Heath Qualls

1991 Rudy Jordan

2006 Aaron Hofmeister

1992 Mary Phillips

2007 Kira Kautz

1993 Brian Berridge

2008 Derick Whitley

1994 Stacey Karzenski

2009 Lacey Sullivan

1995 Christopher McReynolds

2010 Troy Herthel

1996 Jill Peale

2011 James Michael Rogers

1997 Paulette Razy-Faulkner

2012 Jason Duell

A group of 12 previous recipients joined the current Dean Clarence H. McElroy Award winner, Penny Regier, and the late dean’s family members Patricia McElroy and Steven McElroy to celebrate 60 years of the top award for veterinary students. Seated (from left) are Drs. John Gilliam (’01), Robert Streeter (’87), John Link (’82), Penny Regier (’13), Mary PhillipsNewman (’92) and John Otto (’90).

Standing are Steven McElroy, Drs. Michael Nichols (’86), Kenneth Abrams (’85), Terry Lehenbauer (’79), Michael Lorenz (’69), John Stein (’83), Larry Swango (’64), Melanie Breshears (’98) and Patricia McElroy.

2013 Penny Regier Deceased individual

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Kassie Newton and her husband Eddie join the children and veterinary missionary Dr. Kelly Crowdis (rear center) at a Port-au-Prince orphanage. Newton had just assisted with neutering their dog, Berto.

Expanding Boundaries Kitao Scholarship gives student chance for international experience

At the end of her third year of veterinary college, Kassie Newton (Class of 2013) received the Kitao Family Endowed Scholarship to help fund an international externship during her fourth year of study. It gave her the opportunity to follow a dream she had for quite some time.

“I spent four weeks in Croix de Bouquets, just outside the Port-au-Prince area in Haiti,” says Newton. “I hoped to learn how to combine veterinary work with missions and to define more precisely what a veterinary mission is. I also wanted to enhance my diagnostic and clinical veterinary skills with both small and large animals. Finally, I just wanted to immerse myself and learn more about the culture, speaking Creole and talking with people.”

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Newton was able to do all that and more.

She connected with Dr. Keith Flanagan (OSU DVM ’78), a veterinarian who spent the majority of his career working as a veterinary missionary in Haiti before his death on April 3, less than one week after Kassie left.

“One of my favorite experiences was the few days we spent in the Artibonite Valley,” says Newton. “Our mission was to train men who were called veterinary agents.

These are people with no formal education or training who perform basic veterinary care in areas of Haiti where there is no veterinarian, and the people have no way to transport animals for care.”

“ T h e K i tao s c h o l a r s h i p wa s a n a m a z i n g o p p o r t u n i t y. I e n c o u r ag e e v e ryo n e to s h a r e t h e i r k n ow l e d g e a n d p r o m ot e e d u c at i o n , w h e t h e r i n a n ot h e r c o u n t ry o r at yo u r ow n c l i n i c .”

— Kassie Newton all photos Courtesy Kassie Newton

Dr. Crowdis and Newton vaccinate some kittens during a clinic in Cap-Haitien in Haiti.

The training involved two days of classroom instruction followed by two days of hands-on work.

She also visited (through a translator) with a family who lived next door to where they were staying.

“I loved passing on our knowledge to help these men do their very best to care for animals. The agents are able to give vaccinations, care for wounds and administer antibiotics. Experiencing veterinary medicine in a completely different setting than what we are accustomed to is amazing. In a third-world country, you quickly learn that the luxuries of clinics (drug availability, surgical suites and privacy) are not readily available. In time, you adapt to your surroundings and find that you can practice good veterinary medicine and provide excellent patient care no matter the circumstances.”

“The father heavily practiced voodoo medicine, and I spent more than two hours learning about his family, his beliefs and his life. It helped me realize how incredibly blessed I am and how much I take for granted in life. It was a conversation I will surely never forget.

Newton wanted to do everything possible during her time abroad, and she was even able to include a research project.

“I conducted a research study on the incidence of heartworm and tick-borne parasites in Haiti. It was a lot of fun to conduct research while also treating animals.”

“Even though I did as much as I could to prepare myself for the Haitian culture, I was still shocked by the amount of poverty throughout the entire country,” she says.

“Sadly, there aren’t many places (in Haiti) that are not lacking in education, finances and resources. It amazes me that people can adapt to live and be so happy in such circumstances. I was also surprised to see the amount of work and construction that has taken place since the earthquake in 2010. While parts of Haiti still show evidence of the tragedy, much of the country has rallied to rebuild, pave roads and make Haiti a better place than it was before.”

Kassie Newton (left) assists Dr. Keith Flanagan in performing a neuter at Ryan Epp’s orphanage in the Artibonite Valley in Haiti.

Ne wton earned her DVM degree in May 2013 and has accepted a position at The Pet Hospitals at Collierville in Collierville, Tenn.

“The Kitao scholarship was an amazing opportunity,” she says. “I encourage everyone to share their knowledge and promote education, whether in another country or at your own clinic. Continue to be teachers and to be teachable for the rest of your lives. There is always more to learn and there is always something you can teach.”

The Kitao Family Endowed Scholarship was established by the Kitao family of Japan. The Kitaos were so grateful for the experience their son had studying veterinary medicine at OSU that they wanted to offer a student the chance to study abroad. The scholarship allows a fourth-year veterinary student the opportunity to study small-animal medicine in an international externship.

Derinda Blakeney

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photos Provided

Lt. Col. Daniel Holland was killed in Iraq in 2006. His wife’s college roommate established the scholarship in his honor.

New Scholarship Honors Fallen Hero

The Daniel Holland Memorial Scholarship was awarded for the first time in April at the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences’ annual awards banquet. Tamyra Lingo Fancher of Glencoe, Okla., established the annual scholarship in honor of Lt. Col. Daniel Holland, DVM, a hero who is an alumnus of the veterinary college.

When Holland’s father retired from the U.S. Army, the family moved to Marlow, Okla. Always thinking the Army was a way of life, Daniel soon discovered his love of veterinary medicine. He entered OSU on a ROTC scholarship and was admitted to OSU’s veterinary college three years later.

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Genessee Photo

Connie Yearwood (left) won the first Daniel Holland Memorial Scholarship, which was established by

Tamyra Lingo Fancher (right).

The Recipient Connie Yearwood of Colony, Okla., Class of 2015, is the first recipient of the Daniel Holland Memorial Scholarship. She met Tamyra Fancher and Sheryl Holland during the awards banquet, where the scholarship was presented.

of food production,” says Yearwood. “I stayed at OSU to earn my DVM degree. To this day, I still have this passion to gain more and more knowledge and share what I know to anyone who will listen about the magnificent animals that provide us with wholesome nutrition.”

veterinary school, and he certainly was a man of great integrity and a man who recognized the importance to love people and enjoy life every day you are here. I will never forget this award or this night. It truly means way more than money. I will remember to show love to all

“I was shocked when my name was announced as the recipient of this scholarship,” says Yearwood. “I was unaware that these

Yearwood credits her older sister, Emily, with influencing her career decision.

the people and animals I encounter and to show continual support to our wonderful troops who sacrifice their lives for our freedom.”

wonderful people I had visited with all evening were the very people that made this generous contribution to my education and passion in life.”

Yearwood says she has always wanted to have a career in medicine, but it wasn’t until her senior year of high school that she decided to pursue veterinary medicine.

“I came to OSU to complete a bachelor’s degree in animal science, which brought me to a whole new world of passion and knowledge

Combining his passions, Holland graduated in 1988 with his DVM degree and joined the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps as an officer. He was serving his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom when a roadside bomb exploded, killing him and three other service members on May 18, 2006.

“I knew Daniel because his wife, Sheryl, and I were roommates at OSU,” says Fancher, who earned a degree in accounting at OSU.

“As most older sisters do, Emily has influenced every decision I could possibly make since I was little. We share a common passion to care for animals; she is a registered veterinary technician working at a small-animal veterinary hospital in Edmond, Okla. She always demonstrates an incredible work ethic, which I try to follow daily.

“I have been touched by Lt. Col. Daniel Holland’s life and those still here to share his story.

Other scholarships presented for the first time included the Butch and Luella Ruth Curtis Scholarships (nine awards at $10,000 each), the John B. Hays Endowed Scholarship at $1,000 and the Kammerlocher Endowed Scholarship at $1,700. Thanks to generous donors, more than $431,000 in scholarships and awards were presented during the awards banquet.

Sheryl told me a few stories about his days in

“I wanted to do something in memory of what Daniel did for our country. He was committed to his country, his community and his family, and gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms — his life.”

“I’m so happy Tamyra is doing this in memory of Daniel,” says Sheryl Holland. “It means that people still remember him. It’s an honor especially to have a veterinary scholarship in Daniel’s name. Our son is actually thinking

about going into veterinary medicine. Every summer, he works for Dr. Lyndon Graf (OSU ’78) at his veterinary clinic in Marlow where Daniel once worked.

Eligible recipients must be an OSU veterinary student interested in large animal veterinary medicine whose studies focus on food animal medicine.

“Daniel had such a big personality. He was a giving person and a practical joker. He was so much fun — never a dull moment. I think that’s why, seven years later, we still miss him like crazy. Daniel was all about God, family and country,” adds Sheryl.

“I wanted to do something to honor Sheryl and their two children for their personal sacrifices and to remember the wonderful man Daniel was,” adds Fancher. “I hope the recipients recognize that the scholarship is a monetary gift in memory of a much greater gift from Daniel.”

Derinda Blakeney

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Grandparent University 2013 Campers young and older check out an array of veterinary experiences The children and their grandThe Center for Veterinary One set of grandparents attendHealth Sciences hosted 19 camp- ing included an alumnus — Dr. parents were able to participate ers and 15 accompanying adults Ronny (’70) and his wife, Nancy in an array of hands-on activities, during the 2013 Grandparent Kiehn, who brought their three including small-animal endosgranddaughters for the two-day copy, teddy bear surgery, parasites, University. anatomy, radiographs, exotic and program in June. pocket pets, equine health and a trip to the cattle feedlot.

Interactive ideas to offer new learning experiences for our young visitors are always welcome. To share your thoughts, contact Kyla Trammell at 405-744-7672 or kyla.trammell@okstate.edu.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Lauren Kimmel

and Natalie Patterson run some simple lab tests. Lauren is the granddaughter of Michelle Kimmel, M.D., of Cushing, Okla.

Natalie Patterson of Leawood, Kan., is the granddaughter of Marsha Patterson of Springfield, Mo.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Harley Hill of Sand Springs, Okla., and Karlie Skaggs of McKinney, Texas, are the granddaughters of Karla Skaggs of Denison, Texas.

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Congratulations, Class of 2013 Genessee Photo

In May, the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences graduated another record class with 92 members.

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Derinda Blakeney / CVHS

Erin Way was hooded by her husband, Chris Petro (2010) at her May graduation.

Childhood Dream Comes True Many 6-year-olds fall in love with animals and dream of working with them.

Far fewer actually make that dream a reality.

Since he graduated in 2010, Petro has been working at the Animal Medical Center I-35, a small-animal veterinary practice in Edmond, Okla.

“I am excited for Erin to graduate and start this new chapter of her life,” says Petro. “It is a great honor to hood my wife and welcome her into this profession that we both care passionately about. Erin and I have made many memories here. I know we will both miss Stillwater and OSU very much.”

“I commute from Stillwater every day to work,” says Petro. “The biggest cle after her graduation from Okla- challenge has been making time for homa State University’s College of each other between Erin’s school Way was inducted into the Nu Veterinary Medicine with a Doctor of demands and my work schedule. Having just completed veterinary school, Chapter of Phi Zeta, the honor sociVeterinary Medicine degree.

The daughter of Daren and Kim I knew exactly what she was going ety of veterinary medicine. through, so it helped to make things “I met some great people while I Paddyaker of Tuttle, Okla., decided a little easier. ” was here in veterinary college,” she to make her dream career come true Following graduation, Way will says.

“Some will remain lifelong during her undergraduate studies at enter the U.S. Air Force as a public friends.

The camaraderie that you OSU. She gives a lot of credit to the health officer. build is really neat. If veterinary medsupport she has received from Chris icine is something you are passionate “Joining the military is a great career Petro, DVM, also an OSU graduate about, soak up as much knowledge as and her husband. Petro hooded Way opportunity for a graduate with a DVM you can and really treasure the time during the hooding ceremony on degree,” she says. “It’s a great way to you are in school. ” May 4, 2013. see different areas of the country and With 92 members, the class of 2013 “I am honored to have Chris hood even the world. I’m really excited to me,” says Way. “He is the person who start my job and learn a different ave- is the largest class of Cowboy veterinarians to graduate from Oklahoma has helped me through the past four nue of veterinary medicine.”

Way will be stationed at MacDill State since it opened its veterinary years the most. He’s always been there for me and pushed me to be the best Air Force Base in Tampa, Fla. Her hus- school 65 years ago.

Erin Way belongs in that small cir-

I could. I admire him so much not band plans to go with her and look only as a person but also as a caring, for work as a small animal practitioner wherever she is stationed throughcompassionate veterinarian.” out her military career. He has found a position with a clinic in Valrico, Fla.

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Derinda Blakeney

Spanning the Generations

David Bailey (left) is following the examples set by his dad, Keith (right) and grandfather Richard (now deceased) by getting his DVM at OSU.

David Bailey follows the family path to OSU

For some, the family business may be just that — a business.

A firm specializing in the law, perhaps, or architecture or maybe a store of some sort. For the Bailey family of Tulsa, the family business is veterinary medicine, and the family school is Oklahoma State University. “ I h av e a lways lo o k e d u p to m y da d i n l i f e a n d i n v e t e r i n a r y m e d i c i n e ,” s ays Dav i d. “ H av i n g h i m h o o d m e i s a sy m b o l i c way o f b e i n g w e lc o m e d i n to t h e f i e l d a s w e l l a s i n to t h e r e a l wo r l d o f p r o d u c t i v e c i t i z e n s .”

David Bailey is the third generation to earn his DVM degree from OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. His late grandfather, Dr. Richard Bailey earned his degree in 1965; his father, Dr. Keith Bailey, who owns Tulsa’s Southwest Veterinary Hospital, followed in 1984.

David grew up watching his dad treat sick animals.

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“Even though from an early age I was interested, I didn’t decide to pursue a career in veterinary medicine until late in high school. It’s a long time commitment to get the degree,” recalls David. “In the end, I couldn’t think of anything that would make me as happy as doing what I had witnessed with dad.”

“The road to a degree in veterinary medicine is long and difficult.

Many desire, but only a few actually travel therein. I am very proud, as would be my father, to welcome one more generation,” says Keith. “As a child David was inquisitive, yet hated school. His mother and I never expected him to go to college, let alone into such a rigorous study. It just goes to show that you are capable of anything you set your mind to; never sell yourself short in work or in the hobbies you pursue.”

While David and his father have always enjoyed working together, the young Dr. Bailey is not yet joining his father’s practice.

“David has a way with people that is easy and natural. He works very well with his hands and is a fast learner,” says Keith. “’When he does join the practice, he will bring a fresh viewpoint so that we may span decades of learning with a wide range of experiences. I believe it is important to stay current and listen to the opinions of your peers on both sides. I learn continually from both recent graduates and experienced mentors.

This is what keeps the profession fresh and interesting.”

“My favorite memory is the first day of orientation,” smiles David.

“I met my best friend and now my fiancée, Amanda Likins. It was also an interesting experience to go through the same veterinary program that both my father and grandfather went through. I even had several of the same professors that my father had, and surprisingly a few that my grandfather had. It was fun to share stories with these professors about my dad and grandpa from when they were in my position. I have made a lot of “I still have a lot to learn,” adds friends along the way and met a lot David. “However, working with of people that I will never forget.

“Veterinary school can be very Dad over the years, I learned a lot and have seen diseases and condi- difficult and at times, may try tions that I would not have been your patience,” he continues. “Try exposed to otherwise at this point to remember that you are there to in my career. The experience I learn. Soak up all of the knowlgained will allow me to adjust to edge you can. Take advantage of being a veterinarian easier and your peers and all of their expewill help me to recognize certain riences. You are surrounded by conditions more quickly in my specialists in a variety of fields so learn anything you can from all of patients.”

Looking back over the past four them. And have fun when you find years, David has fond memories opportunities to do so.”

“After graduation, I plan to work in a small-animal practice in Tulsa,” and some advice to offer incomsays David. “I feel I will benefit ing students. from gaining experience under a variety of doctors. In the long run, I think it will make me a better veterinarian and more of a benefit to dad’s practice when the time comes for me to join him. Also my family and my fiancée’s family are in Tulsa, and it is important for us to be around them.”

On May 4, 2013, David Bailey was among 92 students earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences. His father hooded him.

“I have always looked up to my dad in life and in veterinary medicine,” says David. “Having him hood me is a symbolic way of being welcomed into the field as well as into the real world of productive citizens. It seems fitting that after sparking my interest in the field that he would be a part of the celebration of finally earning the degree and beginning my career.”

“Congratulations to the Class of 2013,” says Dr. Jean Sander, professor and dean of the veterinary center. “Now is an exciting time to join the profession of veterinary medicine. Whether these young veterinarians chose private practice, a career in public health, the military service, academia or biomedical research, each one will play a critical role in keeping our food supply safe, our animals healthy and ultimately our families healthy.”

At 92 members, the class of 2013 is the largest class of Cowboy veterinarians to graduate from Oklahoma State since it opened its veterinary school 65 years ago in 1948.

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Welcome, Class of 2017 Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences welcomed the 82 members of the Class of 2017 with a White Coat Ceremony, symbolizing the first step of many milestones for these students on their journey to earn a DVM degree.

Oklahoma State Rep. Brian Renegar (OSU DVM ‘76) congratulates Jeff Williams (‘17), in the White Coat Ceremony.

Both are from McAlester, Okla.

James Breazile, DVM, Ph.D., professor emeritus in the Department of Physiological Sciences coats his granddaughter Jennifer Ecker.

Dr. Chris Ross (center), associate dean for academic affairs, joins the Class of 2017.

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Dr. Gary Lenaburg (‘79) coats his daughter, Paige Lenaburg.

white coat photos / Genesee Photo

Class of 2017 By the Numbers

By GPA

3 . 4 8 4 average 3 . 4 7 2 average 3 . 5 8 3 average 3 . 7 0 4 average

core G P A

By GRE scores

1 5 3 average 1 5 1 average 4 . 0 average

verbal G R E score quantitative G R E score analytical G R E score

cumulative G P A core G P A for E A P students cumulative G P A for E A P students By gender

2 2 men 6 0 women By residence

5 8 O kies 2 4 non - residents 4 E arly A dmission

P rogram * students , split between in - state and non - residents

* Early The Class of 2017 enjoyed orientation before classes began at OSU.

Admission Program students are admitted during their undergraduate freshman year. They must have an ACT score of at least 28 and must maintain a 3.5 GPA. Faculty members serving as their mentors are Drs. Ken Bartels, Anthony Confer, Lyndi Gilliam and Todd Holbrook.

orientation photos / Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Photo courtesy

“ I t h i n k w e h av e one of the better schools f o r t e ac h i n g yo u n g p e o p l e o n h ow to g e t o u t a n d b e a pa r t o f the community and be a service for their c l i e n t s .”

— Dr. Mike Tripp

Dr. Mike Tripp of Ringling is the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association’s

Veterinarian of the Year for 2013.

Oklahoma’s Veterinarian of the Year Ringling’s Mike Tripp shares his passion with family, clients, students — and pigs

Dr. Mike Tripp is a man of simple

It was work that would make most kids balk. Mike brought cattle in “I grew up with pigs,” says the Ringling, through the chutes once they arrived Okla., large-animal veterinarian. “We for treatment. He cleaned their pens. He raised Yorkshires for show and breed- cleaned the dogs’ and cats’ rooms. ing. It’s just kind of my relief. Some peo“I think it’s good to learn all positions,” ple like to go play golf and go to the bar. Tripp says. “If you start from the bottom I like to go to the barn and mess with and work your way up, you have a betthe pigs.” ter appreciation for the people who do But pigs aren’t his only passion. His those things for you later.” needs.

His dad, Wilbur “Doc” Tripp, was an extension agent who worked in the area and had a master’s degree from OSU. His mother, Nancy Tripp, taught school.

Their four kids all went to school at OSU. “I only knew there was one school growing up,” Tripp says. “If the Soviet Union was playing OU, Mom would be rooting for the Russians to beat them.”

Like many veterinary students, Tripp Bostwick also let him help — as much studied animal science before starting in as he could — with calf birthing and sur- the veterinary medical program. He was geries. Bostwick showed the young Mike such a dedicated student that he lived in he “could help people and animals at the the apartment of the department’s old same time. I guess that’s why I decided and foul-smelling swine barn (which was replaced by the newer facility with to do what I did.”

Tripp, a member of the Class of 1982, was inspired to become a veterinarian Agriculture and taking care of valu- better odor and waste controls in 2004). by one of the first vets to graduate from able animals have always been a big part He and another student who lived OSU, Dr. Jack Bostwick . The for- of Tripp’s life. His family had a farm out- there ran experiments for faculty memmer president of OVMA let the fourth- side Fairview where they raised sheep bers in everything from special feeds to reproductive physiology. He was admitgrade Mike work at his clinic in tiny and pigs. ted to veterinary school after just three Fairview, Okla. years in undergrad, meaning he was finishing up his bachelor’s degree as he started his veterinary medical degree.

dedication to his trade and his community were rewarded in January 2013, when he was honored as the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association’s veterinarian of the year.

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More on OVMA Other OVMA Awards honoring CVHS alumni: Companion Animal Practitioner of the Year —

D r . W endy B ray (’98) Food Animal Practitioner of the Year —

D r . T im L owry (’87) Faculty to Practitioner Award —

D r . R obert S treet (’87),

adjunct associate professor, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences

Distinguished Service Award —

D r . Y alonda B urton (’00) OVMA Executive Committee

CVHS alumni serving Oklahoma and the veterinary medical profession President — Dr. Greg Campbell (’85),

Former pathologist at OADDL and associate professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology

President-elect — Dr. Mark Shackelford (’82) Vice president — Dr. Yalonda Burton (’00) Secretary/treasurer — Dr. Rosemarie Strong (’89) Immediate past president — Dr. Mark Ferrell (’88)

Alumni who own or work in veterinary medical clinics in Oklahoma that have been open for 50 years or more honored by the OVMA: Dr. Louis Carlin (’53) — Affordable Pet Care, Tulsa Dr. Colette Crotty (’85) — VCA Veterinary Medical Center, Tulsa Dr. Doug Kirkpatrick (’77) —

Southwest Veterinary Clinic, Elgin

Dr. Brian McNeil (’78) —

Cushing Veterinary Clinic, Cushing

Dr. Lawrence McTague (’71) — Ardmore Animal Hospital, Ardmore Dr. Louis Nightengale (’62) — Town and Country Animal Hospital, Ardmore Dr. Rodney Robards (’89) —

Southern Hills Veterinary Hospital, Tulsa

Dr. James Sewell (’58) — Veterinary Corner, Guthrie Dr. Michael Steward (’79) —

Shawnee Animal Hospital, Shawnee

Dr. Larry Thompson (’81) —

Winsor Animal Clinic, Coalgate

Tripp met his wife, Rita Brawdy, at OSU. They were married in 1979. She taught at Olive schools while he was finishing up. Today, his Southern Plains Animal Hospital in Ringling, where he began working in 1985, sees dozens of clients from all over the region who rely on Tripp to protect their livelihoods as well as their companion animals — just like Bostwick’s clients did with Tripp’s mentor.

In their spare time, Tripp and his wife Tripp says winning the OVMA’s Vetvolunteer with the Baptist Home for erinarian of the Year is one of the highGirls in nearby Madill. They help them lights of his career. raise and show livestock. They also host “To be honored by your peers is always a girl from the home each year at Christ- a great honor,” Tripp says, noting his mas in their home. pride at being an alumnus of the vetHe and his wife raised four children erinary school. “A lot of that goes in to and have one grandson. Their oldest the type of teaching that goes in to our daughter will start in a veterinary techni- school which I’m really, really high on. I cian program in the fall. Their youngest think we have one of the better schools daughter is studying to be a registered for teaching young people on how to get Tripp also mentors veterinary stu- nurse. Tripp’s grandson shows pigs with out and be a part of the community and dents. He hosted a veterinary technician him. They attended the National Swine be a service for their clients.” intern last summer from Murray State. Registry’s 2013 summer conference in MATT ELLIOTT “I enjoy the teaching part,” he says. “I’ve Louisville, Ky. had several interns come and stay.”

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Payton Otto

A Win-Win-Win Situation Friends for Folks program gives animal shelter dogs and prison inmates new leashes on life

Several of the leaders involved with Friends for Folks visited the WestTown Homeless Resource Campus to discuss expanding the program.

Those at the meeting included (from left) WestTown executive director Dan Straughan; Greg Mellott, director of The Dogs of Lexington documentary; Marvin Perry, a former inmate who was involved in the program before his death in 2012; veterinarian Dr. John Otto Jr.; and Louisa McCune-Elmore, executive director of the Kirkpatrick Foundation that provided a grant to make the documentary.

Like all veterinarians, Dr. John Otto often finds himself saving the lives of pets.

Unlike most, Otto takes it a step further with his participation in the Friends for Folks program.

“The program is designed to pair inmates with animal shelter dogs,” explains Otto. “An inmate will spend four months training a dog so that the dog can eventually become a suitable companion for a widow, a therapy dog for a veteran or senior citizen center or for people with special needs.”

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Once they have been trained, dogs Otto is the volunteer veterinarian for from animal shelters become more the Lexington (Okla.) Correctional adoptable, increasing their chances of Center , a maximum-security men’s finding a forever home with a new fam- prison. The Friends for Folks program ily. And that’s not all it helps, Otto says. is patterned after a program started in “Not only does the program help Washington state in the 1980s by Sisdecrease the shelter population, but it ter Pauline Quinn. also gives the inmates a second chance to make a positive change in their lives as well,” adds Otto. “Offenders learn to care for something other than their own needs. They learn to give rather than take. They can see the results of their hard work as their dog responds to the training.”

Within its structure, Friends for Folks has rules for everyone from the veterinarian to the warden to the program coordinator (who trains the inmates on how to train the dogs) to the inmates selected to be a dog trainer. Otto’s role is multidimensional.

Below: Marvin Perry worked with Star, a black lab he trained to be a search-and-rescue dog.

Perry was paroled in 2008 and died in July 2012 of Lou Gehrig’s disease.

The Dogs of Lexington

Right: Susan Savage and Dr. John Otto visit with Fergie, one of the program’s dogs. Savage, a former Oklahoma secretary of state, supports Friends for Folks and put the Kirkpatrick Foundation in touch with Otto.

The Dogs of Lexington

“I go with the trainer to introduce the program to the warden and support personnel who will be involved with the program at a correctional facility,” says Otto, who earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1990. “It is important that I ensure the health of the dogs is up to basic professional standards.

This helps reduce the risk of contagious diseases to the inmates and other animals in the program.”

parasite control programs for the animals’ health as well as reducing the risk for zoonotic diseases.

“The increased responsibility given to the inmate helps boost his self-esteem and pride in the program. I even give quizzes to the inmates to help in their educational process,” he adds. “The more the inmate interacts with me, the veterinarian, the more he gains in respect for this program and for Otto makes sure a vaccine pro- the health of the pet. tocol is in place and monitors it “The pets in this program are to keep everyone healthy. He also being trained as companions for explains to the inmates the impor- widows or people with special tance of internal and external needs out in the community. It’s

very rewarding to be part of this program,” Otto says. “History has also shown that this program has a ‘calming’ effect within the prison population even with inmates not directly involved with the cell dog program. Families of inmates also benefit as they see their loved ones make a positive change in their lives and give back to others.”

Otto is working with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections to establish a similar program in all the state’s prisons, including its female facilities. Mabel Bassett Correctional Center in McLoud, Okla., has already started to build its program.

To Donate The F r i e n d s f o r Folks program is accepting donations through the Tulsa Community Foundation . Specify your gift is for Friends for Folks and send it to Tulsa Community Foundation, 7030 S. Yale, Suite 600, Tulsa, OK 74136, or visit www.tcf. org. You can get more information at www.friendsforfolks.org.

While deeply involved in the program, the veterinarian has other things on his plate as well.

He owns University Animal Hospital in Norman, and he’s a husband and father to two boys.

He has also produced a documentary about the program, The Dogs of Lexington, which can be viewed on OStateTV at bit. ly/1agmOwP. Derinda Blakeney

Sister Pa u l i n e Qu i n n

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Honoring their work 3 are named Distinguished Alumni Photos provided

D r . F rederick E nright Dr. Frederick Enright has battled bovine brucellosis for much of his career.

He is known for developing and implementing a program to eliminate bovine brucellosis from marsh cattle herds in southwestern Louisiana, which led to Louisiana becoming a brucellosis-free state, ultimately saving millions of dollars in losses each year caused by the disease. Enright also co-developed the vaccine that is the official USDA vaccine for brucellosis in the United States.

His research interests focus on the immunological and inflammatory reactions of a variety of hosts to bacterial, protozoal, viral and helminth parasites. He is particularly interested in the innate defense systems of animals to these agents.

He has been a professor emeritus at Louisiana State University’s Agricultural Center in the Department of Veterinary Sciences since his retirement in 2010. He joined LSU in 1976, returning to the university where he did his pre-veterinary studies. Enright

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D r . S ol omon C. G artman Dr. Solomon C. Gartman was a member of the team that effectively rid North America of the screwworm, a pest that plagued the cattle industry since the mid-1820s and caused millions of dollars in losses every year. He also was involved in the Animal Welfare Act. Gartman attended Shawnee (Okla.) High School, where he played basketball on the state championship team and ran track. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force and served as a tail gunner from 1944 to 1946.

In the fall of 1946, he attended then-Oklahoma A&M College and in 1948, he began veterinary college. In 1951, he became one of 26 inaugural graduates from Oklahoma’s School of Veterinary Medicine.

He went to work for the U.S. Department of Agriculture as an Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service veterinarian serving Arizona and Georgia. From 1957 to 1962, Gartman was the assistant veterinarian

D r . J ohn O tto Dr. John Otto may have the most popular veterinary clinic in Norman, Okla., but his true passion lies in helping homeless animals — “shelter medicine,” as he refers to it.

Readers of the Norman Transcript newspaper have named Otto’s University Animal Hospital, which opened in 1995, most popular with their votes several times.

In addition to treating patients, Otto volunteers at the Norman Animal Shelter and mentors pre-veterinary students who volunteer there. He worked to get a facility with spay and neuter facilities to make the animals more adoptable.

Otto also helped start a mentor program with current veterinary students and members of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association.

During the aftermath of the May 3, 1999, tornado that ravaged Moore, Okla., Otto set up a triage system for 131 dogs and cats injured or misplaced during the storm and received the American Red Cross Hero Award for his work.

Enright

graduated from OSU’s veterinary college in 1970 and completed a Ph.D. at the University of California at Davis in 1974.

Some of Enright’s many honors and awards include receiving the LSU AgCenter Diversity Initiative Award for Excellence in 2004, being named as a Fulbright Scholar to conduct research and teaching at the National Institute of Agricultural Technology in Argentina in 2000, and receiving the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award (1998).

He is active in numerous professional organizations, including the American and Louisiana Veterinary Medical Associations, Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases, American Association of Veterinary Immunologists and the Animal Disease Research Workers in the Southern States.

Enright is also active in his community, serving as a scoutmaster and assistant scoutmaster for Troup 50 Boy Scouts of America, a member of University United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge, and a judge in local, regional and state sciences fairs.

He and his wife, Christine, have a son, Richmond, and a daughter, Anna.

Gartman

in charge of the screwworm program in Sebring, Fla. In 1962, he was appointed veterinarian in charge of the screwworm program in Mission, Texas, where he served until 1971.

Gartman transferred to Washington, D.C., in 1972, where he was involved in the Animal Welfare Act. In 1975, he was appointed area veterinarian in charge at Flowood, Miss., until he retired in 1980.

He was also an active member of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association and the United States Animal Health Association. He belonged to the Lions Club and served as a deacon and Pastor Search Committee chairman in his church.

Gartman earned many commendations during his life, including a Distinguished Service Award (1961), a Certificate of Appreciation for Superior Service (1972) and a Commendation for Distinguished Service (1980), all from the secretary of agriculture.

In 2006, Gartman died. Surviving are his wife, JoAnne Gartman, two sons, one daughter, nine grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

Otto

He also is the volunteer veterinarian at Lexington Correctional Facility’s dog training programs. Otto sterilizes and vaccinates the animals, which are paired with an inmate for 13 weeks of training. The pets later go to nursing homes and veterans’ centers as well as to shut-ins and people with special needs.

Otto works with Special Olympics through the Norman Kiwanis Club receiving the 2010 Hixon Award (the local club’s highest award) and the 2007 Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma Lay Person of the Year (the district’s highest award). He has also earned the Second Chance Humanitarian of the Year award in 1991 and 2004, as well as the 2004 Spay USA Top Humanitarian Award.

He was chairman of the Animal Welfare Committee of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association, which helped create the animal friendly license plate that funds a statewide indigent spay/neuter program.

Otto also volunteers on the Dean’s Development Associates working with the dean, Dr. Jean Sander, and others to move OSU’s veterinary center forward.

He is married to Patti and resides in Norman with their two children, Grant and Payton. He grew up in various communities across the country before he graduated from OSU’s veterinary college in 1990.

Derinda Blakeney

Dean Jean Sander (from left), CVHS Alumni Society President Dr. Tim Woody, JoAnne Gartman (widow of Dr. Solomon Gartman), Dr. Frederick Enright and Dr. John Otto, at the ceremony honoring the distinguished alumni.

Photos provided

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Earl Aalseth

Dr. Earl Aalseth, a 1991 OSU alumnus, has had a dairy consulting practice since 2004.

Alum takes top bovine practitioner honor Earl Aalseth , Ph.D., DVM, a dairy practitioner from Lake Stevens, Wash., was awarded the AABP/Boehringer Ingelheim Practitioner of the Year at the 45th Annual American Association of Bovine Practitioners meeting in Mon-

treal, Canada.

“It is nice that others think well of my efforts towards veterinary medicine and dairy management,” Dr. Aalseth says. “It actually makes my support group of other professionals, students, mentors and family feel good.”

Aalseth, a 1991 graduate from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Oklahoma State University, has had a dairy consulting practice with clients in the western half of the United States since 2004. The practice offers its wide range of clients consulting service regarding dairy production medicine and performance.

To keep his practice as advanced as possible, Aalseth also trains veterinary interns and participates in academic and industrial research directed at products and techniques that improve cow health. These activities include software development for herd health monitoring. Aalseth says clients place a high value on management concepts and technologies that move current practices forward.

Aalseth’s personal interests include his family, horseback riding, weightlifting, hunting, camping, auto mechanics, woodworking and financial investing.

“I usually catch up on Oklahoma State a little when my classmates call,” Aalseth says.

“Oklahoma State University is a great school from what I have seen comparatively from other veterinary schools.”

The American Association of Bovine Practitioners is an association of veterinarians organized to enhance the professional lives of its members. It was founded in 1965 as a non-profit organization. There are approximately 7,000 members from the United States, Canada and other countries.

Paige Vandaveer

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AVMA

AVMA Honors ’64 Alumnus And the 2013 AVMA Award goes to (drum roll, please) Dr. James Brandt , OSU Class of 1964.

He was recognized at the American Veterinary Medical Association’s annual convention in Chicago for contributing to the advancement of veterinary medicine during his 50-year career.

Brandt, who lives in Nokomis, Fla., has been involved in veterinary medicine his entire career.

He has held all the offices of his local veterinary association, including serving as president in 1972. He was very active in the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, representing District 7, serving on numerous committees and as president in 1990. In 2000, he was the primary founder of the Florida Veterinary Medical Foundation. Brandt was named the 1993 Florida Veterinarian of the Year and in 2003, he received the Distinguished Service Award.

In 2006, the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine honored Brandt with a Distinguished Alumni Award.

On the national level, Brandt has been equally involved. Here are some of his accomplishments: Represented Florida in the AVMA House of Delegates, 1990-2000 Served as AVMA president in 2001, guiding the organization through the aftermath of 9/11 with the help of many dedicated veterinarians Instrumental in the AVMA building beautification Assisted the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues to raise the economic level of the profession Elected trustee to the Group Health and Life Insurance Trust in 2005 and continues today to work for an acceptable source of health insurance for AVMA members

And Brandt’s involvement doesn’t stop there.

He is also very active in his community, serving as president of the Venice-Nokomis Rotary Club, director of the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce, director of the Sunnyland Boy Scouts of America, and as vestryman and senior warden of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. He has served on the Venice Hospital Board and helped found two community banks serving as a bank director since 1977. He also has participated in many events with local animal welfare groups and humane societies.

Dr. James Brandt (left) receives the

2013 AVMA Award from Dr. Douglas Aspros, AVMA immediate past president.

“I feel that Jim Brandt is a very deserving person representing Oklahoma State University and the class of 1964,” says Dr. Ben Baker, 1964 class representative, OSU College of Veterinary Medicine. “He is an outstanding individual who has common sense and a very good outlook on many things.”

“I treasure the AVMA Award. I feel honored to be included in the long distinguished list of veterinarians who have received this award,” says Brandt. “My involvement in leadership was enjoyable, and I appreciate the profession. I am proud to be a veterinarian.”

Humbled by the present attention, Brandt is retired and has sold both of his small-animal veterinary practices.

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Genesse photo

Robin Wilson, winner of the 2013

Stratton Staff Award.

Wilson wins Stratton Staff Award

Robin Wilson is someone who goes the extra mile in helping others and performing the duties of her position as the veterinary school’s director of student services.

Wilson doesn’t seek recognition for it. She just does it. That’s part of why she won the 2013 Stratton Staff Award, the top award for Center for Veterinary Health Sciences staff members each year.

“Robin can be described as dedicated, resourceful, compassionate and tenacious,” wrote one of the individuals who nominated her. “Robin routinely goes beyond the call of duty to get her job done as well as providing tremendous support for her co-workers.”

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She remembers a student asking her during a postWilson, who considers Okmulgee her home town, came to OSU in 1990 after finishing her asso- admission interview if she’d always wanted to be a ciate degree at OSU-Okmulgee. She graduated from veterinarian.

OSU in 1992 with a degree in business administra“Truthfully, the thought never crossed my mind,” she tion but didn’t return to OSU until 1999, when she says. “I see the passion that the students have for this was an extension program coordinator with the busi- profession, and I am glad to be involved in the process. ness college.

It’s a long road. … To be a part of making their dreams The best thing about her job is the people she come true is why we do what we do.” works with, she says. But the parking is pretty good, She oversees a staff of five full-time employees and too. Her office at McElroy Hall is the only one in three student workers. While she prefers not to microthe building that has an exterior door, giving her the manage, she strives to familiarize herself with her staff opportunity to park maybe 30 steps from her office. members’ duties. She believes cross-training is imperBut given the dedication she has shown to her work, ative. Her staff lovingly refers to her as “particular” in it’s a good bet she has never used that door to sneak describing her high level of attention to detail. out early.

“I try to treat those who report to me like I would want to be treated. I’m there to assist and provide

“ I t i s v e r y r e wa r d i n g to a dv i s e guidance, and I would never ask them to do somep ot e n t i a l a p p l i c a n t s , a s s i s t t h e m i n g e t t i n g a d m i t t e d, a n d h e l p t h e m thing that I wouldn’t be willing to do or haven’t d u r i n g t h e i r f o u r y e a r s o f v e t s c h o o l done myself.” a n d, f i n a l ly, watc h t h e m g r a d uat e .”

Outside of work, Wilson is an avid flower gardener whose friends routinely seek her advice. She also loves to share her plants with others.

“When dozens of people a day stop by looking for At the Perkins home she shares with her husband, me, they do have a way of noticing when I’m gone,” Mark Wilson, she has installed a koi pond and planted she says. a mix of peonies, roses, lilies, zebra mallow, passion Wilson often refers to her office as Grand Central flower, lantana and clematis (just to name a few) as Station. In fact, one of her colleagues even made a well as dogwoods, magnolias, lilacs and crepe myrtles.

Grand Central Station sign that hangs in the recep“Everybody used to say, ‘You should be a landscaper.’ tion area of her office suite. She provides direction for I always told them, ‘If I do it for a living, then I doubt all facets of admissions and student services activities.

I will enjoy it quite so much. That’s just my way to Her role in the college has evolved a great deal over unwind — spending time in the yard.” the more than eight years she has worked at the vetWilson also enjoys reading and making Pinteresterinary school. She says she often feels like most her inspired crafts. She regularly makes gifts for friends time is spent “putting out fires.” and family.

“It is very rewarding to advise potential applicants, She calls winning the Stratton Staff Award an assist them in getting admitted, and help them durhonor because there are many other deserving staff ing their four years of vet school and, finally, watch members.

She says she couldn’t have done it without them graduate.” She has attended every CVHS comher colleagues, staff and administration in the college. mencement ceremony since her first day on the job Her only regret is that her beloved mother, whom and admits to getting teary-eyed every time. she credits for her work ethic, is no longer alive for She feels strongly about Stillwater, OSU and Oklaher to share this achievement with. If her mother homa and shares that passion with prospective stucould see her now, there is no doubt that she would dents, answering everything from questions about the be extremely proud. college town to how to deal with tornadoes.

Matt Elliott

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Reunited Many classes at the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences tend to be closer than a typical graduating class, and that closeness doesn’t end with the diplomas. Even decades later, members of various classes continue to gather at Oklahoma State University to celebrate their years together and their lives since.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Class of 1952

The Class of 1952 had 36 members when they graduated 60 years ago. At the reunion in September 2012, five of the eight members still alive returned to Stillwater. They are (from left): Drs. Allan Kimmell, Willard Rhynes, Edward Blevins, Harold Ivie and Lawrence Valentine. Those unable to attend the 60-year reunion were Drs. J. Frank England, James Hatton and Raymond Young.

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Class of 1957

Eight of the 19 living members of the Class of 1957 celebrated their 55-year reunion during the Cowboy Roundup in September 2012. They are (seated, from left) Drs. Norman Adams, Anton Kammerlocher and Joseph Potucek. Standing (from left) are Drs. Louis Stubbs, Franklin Baker, Leon Self, Calvin Poole and Bert Briscoe.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Class of 1972

Six members of the Class of 1972 celebrated their 40-year reunion. They are (from left) Drs. Lonnie Moore, Rebecca (Burdette) Morton, Mike Johnston, Kay (Husen) Helms, Gary Woulfe and Danny Dillon. Forty of the class’s 49 graduates are alive.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Class of 1982

Thirteen of the 65 living members of the class of 1982 celebrated their 20-year reunion in Stillwater at the Cowboy Roundup in September 2012. Seated (from left) are: Drs. Theresa Casey LeHew, Robin Johnson, Marcinda Mitchell, Stephanie (Rosin) Moore, Lawrence Shamis and David Migliaccio.

Standing (from left) are: Drs. Bob Shoup, Gary Kubat, Margaret Thompson, Paula Paetz, Frank Roberts, Daniel Christian and Mike Mitchell.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

photo provided

Class of 1987

Twenty-five members of the Class of 1987 celebrated their 25-year reunion at the home of classmate Dr. Robert Streeter of Stillwater during the annual Fall Veterinary Conference. The group had a great time catching up and reminiscing about the good ol’ days. On the front row are (from left): Drs. Karen Blanchard, Linda Blair, Michelle Corr, Kim Anderson, Vickie Brandon, Carol Best, Jim Neumann, Heidi McMorrow and Kevin Gibbs. Second row (from left): Drs. Marilyn Maltby, Dan Hefley, Mark Bock, Elaine Ross, Doug Aldridge and Teresa Brown. Third row (from left): Drs. Susan Mack, Tim Kennemer, Bob Streeter, Mark Kimsey and Terry Sparkman. Back row (from left): Drs. Terrell Blanchard, Craig Spence, Mike Aday and Tim Lowry. Dr. Shirley Gilliland attended, but she is not pictured.

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Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Class of 2002

Members of the Class of 2002 celebrated their 10-year reunion with four of the 72 class members making it back to Stillwater for the occasion. They are (from left): Drs. Stephanie Loud, Jeanette (Lee) Yamamoto, Tammy Huber and Stacey Hubler.

Class of 2007

Four of the 68 members of the Class of 2007 returned to Stillwater to celebrate their five-year reunion. From left are: Drs. Kira Kautz, Carrie Hobgood, Kerri (Wilson) Darbonne and Melissa Kimble.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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50 years later …

Class of 1963 reunites in Stillwater

by Derinda Blakeney

They came from North Carolina, Minnesota, Virginia, Florida, Nebraska, West Virginia, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Kansas, Texas and Missouri as well as from cities in Oklahoma to celebrate their 50-year reunion in Stillwater. However, this class is no stranger to reunions — they have been getting together since they graduated from OSU with their DVM degrees in 1963.

“The key is to have one person keep track of everyone,” says Dr. Thomas Loafmann, class representative. “For a long time, Dr. Gene Fingerlin was the one who did that. We started having reunions every five years when we first graduated. The last 12 years or so, we have gathered together every two years.”

A total of 19 class members and two widows were able to attend some portion or all of the reunion activities. Here is a brief summary of the varied careers of the Class of 1963:

Genesee Photo

At the 50-year reunion for the veterinary Class of 1963 are (seated, from left) Drs. James Dear, Don Robertson, Gary Gibbons, Dorothy Fisher (widow of Dr. Edwin Fisher), Demarious Keller Frey, Franklin Humphreys, Robert Hardy, Wylie Hough and Don Luther. Standing (from left) are Drs. Jerry Kendrick, Stan Acree, Fred Ferguson, J.C. Bryson, Don Roach, Charles Warner, Don Vrbka, Josh Fidler, Ron Stenseng and Tom Loafmann. Also attending reunion activities but not pictured were Dr. Dellalene Baker and Evelyn Allen, widow of Dr. Jack Allen.

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Stan Acree

He was married before he attended veterinary college and worked in a mixed practice after graduation. He taught at OSU in the smallanimal clinic before earning a graduate degree in radiology from the University of Georgia.

He has worked in small-animal medicine at Midwest Veterinary Hospital in Midwest City, Okla., for 44 years.

Jack Allen

He ran a solo practice in Kansas for 30 years.

He was active in the Derby Chamber of Commerce, Sedgwick County Veterinary Medical Association, a Little League sponsor and a second-degree Mason. He and his wife, Evelyn, enjoyed traveling before his death in 2012.

His widow attended the reunion in his honor.

Dellalene Baker

She worked in a mixed-animal practice for seven years before establishing her own facility, Grayson Equine Clinic, in Texas. She retired in 1999, having managed that one-woman practice for 29 years.

Zane Bowles

He established a mixed-animal practice in Albemarle, N.C., the year after he graduated and loved being a veterinarian. “He would still be working today if he hadn’t become ill,” writes his widow, Geraldine Bowles. Dr. Bowles died in 2009.

J.C. Bryson

He opened a mixed-animal practice in his hometown of Collinsville, Okla. In 1967, he opened a small-animal clinic in Owasso and practiced there until 2000, when he built a new clinic and practiced five more years. Today, he does relief work for a nearby clinic.

Louis Burch

Josh Fidler

Following graduation, Dr. Burch was drafted into the Air Force, where he served for 12 years.

Stationed in California when his service ended, he established a veterinary practice in Redlands, Calif., that grew to eight separate practices. Today, he still owns the original practice and works there two days a week.

After graduation, Dr. Fidler returned home to Jerusalem to open a private practice. It wasn’t challenging enough so in 1966, he joined the faculty of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania to work in surgical oncology. He wasn’t curing his patients; the dogs and cats were still dying of cancer so he decided to pursue a career in cancer research via the Department of Pathology at Penn’s Joseph Chabot School of Medicine. After earning a doctorate He began practicing veterinary medicine in in human pathology in 1970, he taught at the Michigan after graduation. Four years later, he University of Pennsylvania before leading Canmoved to Massachusetts to start his own smallcer Biology-Metastasis at the National Cancer animal practice, which he ran for 36 years. Dr. Institute at Frederick, Md. In 1983, he joined Chabot went on to teach at Tufts School of Vetthe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer erinary Medicine for 11 years, at Mississippi’s Center, and has been there since. veterinary school and at two offshore schools.

In 2008, he was diagnosed with primary lateral Eugene Fingerlin Jr. sclerosis, which is very similar to Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was unable to travel to the reunion.

After serving in the U.S. Army, he decided to go back to college to earn his veterinary degree, graduating from OSU in 1963. In 1972, James Dear he opened the Bixby Small Animal Hospital.

He spent a third of his professional career During his career, he was active in state and serving as an Air Force veterinary officer in local veterinary associations and worked with three states and Germany. He returned to Louthe Boy Scouts. He received the Silver Beaisiana and worked for Dr. Michael Richie (Class ver Award in 1982, the highest honor an adult of 1962) for two years while he constructed leader can achieve. In 1989, he was the OVMA’s and established Cypress Animal Hospital near Companion Animal Practitioner of the Year, the New Orleans airport. He sold the pracand in 1995 he was named the OVMA Veteritice in 2001. narian of the Year. “One of my most fortunate life experiences continues to be as a member of Frederick Ferguson the Class of 1963. Over the years, the support, In September 1963, Dr. Ferguson pursued camaraderie and kindness of the other graduan NIH fellowship in laboratory animal med- ates have been richly rewarding. In all my days, icine with a master’s of public health degree I have not met a finer group of individuals,” Dr. at Tulane University. Upon completion, he Fingerlin wrote when he submitted his bio for took a position at the ASPCA in New York the reunion. Sadly, less than a week before the City. In 1966, he went to Philadelphia to work 50-year reunion, Dr. Fingerlin died. on a doctorate in immunobiology and patholcontinues ogy. In 1970, Dr. Ferguson went to Penn State University to serve as its first University Animal Resource Program director and teach. He stayed for 43 years, teaching, training graduate students, doing research and publishing papers until he retired in 2001 as a professor emeritus.

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Edwin Fisher

After graduating with his DVM degree, he worked in Claremore and Tulsa. In 1965, Dr. Fisher moved to Winfield, Kan., and spent the next 43 years practicing veterinary medicine at the Winfield Veterinary Hospital until his death in 2008. “He loved treating animals and developing relationships with their owners,” wrote his widow, Dorothy Fisher. During his career, he was active in his community, serving as president of the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club and as mayor of Winfield.

He was an OSU sports fan and the CVHS Distinguished Alumnus in 2006. Dorothy Fisher attended the reunion in his honor.

Wylie Hough

Dr. Hough worked for three years at the Miami Animal Hospital in Miami, Okla., before being drafted into the Army. He served as the post veterinarian in Indianapolis, where he established and ran a small animal and equine veterinary clinic. Following his military service, Dr. Hough returned to Miami. He and his wife, Doris, bought the Miami Animal Hospital, a general practice with a focus on purebred beef cattle. His son, Rod Hough, joined the practice after earning his DVM degree from OSU. They practiced together until 2007 when Wylie and Doris Hough retired.

Franklin Humphreys

Gaylord “Gig” French Jr.

Following graduation, Dr. French served in the Air Force for two years in Korea. In 1966, he moved to Virginia, practicing around the D.C. area before settling in Richmond, Va. In 1971, Dr. French joined the USDA and managed an inspection plant for 10 years. In 1981, he opened his own small animal hospital in Reidsville, N.C. In 1986, he sold the practice and took a year off to pursue his lifelong passion — aviation. In 1987, Dr. French became a relief veterinarian in Richmond for 10 different small animal practices. He died in 2012.

Gary Gibbons

He served in the Army and was married before coming to veterinary college at OSU. In 1965, Dr. Gibbons built and opened his own small animal hospital. He owned as many as three practices until he retired in 1995. He was active in veterinary organizations, is a life member of the OSU Alumni Association and sings in a barbershop chorus. Dr. Gibbons is a charter member of his Rotary Club in Minnesota.

For enjoyment, he has served in administrative positions within Minnesota Amateur Hockey and USA Hockey for 25 years.

Following graduation, Dr. Humphreys returned to his home state of Louisiana to work in a predominately dairy veterinary practice.

Before long, he moved to the USDA Veterinary Services, where he worked for the remainder of his career. His work focused mostly on diseases such as hog cholera and brucellosis, both of which are now completely eradicated from the U.S. He also spent two years working in Columbia, South America, on controlling foot and mouth disease in that country. He worked in exotic animal imports, which included inspection, testing and health certification of animals in pre-export quarantine facilities in Peru, Bolivia, Germany and South Africa. After 37 years, he retired from government service and resides in Brandon, Miss.

Demarious Keller Frey

Frey graduated from Texas A&M with her undergraduate degree and received the one contract with OSU for a woman to be admitted to the veterinary college. Throughout her career, she has attended many international veterinary conferences starting with the World Veterinary Congress in Mannheim, Germany, the summer of 1963. She has run two private veterinary practices at once in Texas, served as the first woman on the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, on the National Examination Preparation Committee and on the Texas Racing Commission. Dr. Keller Frey has received many honors including the 2009 Distinguished Alumna award from Texas A&M University.

Jerry Kendrick

Following graduation, Dr. Kendrick went to work at Yarborough Animal Hospital in Miami, Fla. Soon he was drafted and assigned to the Air Force Academy. Two years later, he was accepted into a graduate program in laboratory animal medicine to earn a master’s degree. He was assigned next to an epidemiological unit in Manila, Philippines. By the time he finished a seven-year tour in the service, Dr. Kendrick was board certified in laboratory animal medicine. He returned to his hometown, Fairmont, W. Va., and opened Middletown Animal Clinic, where he still works 42 years later.

Thomas Loafmann

From the time Loafmann entered OSU for his undergraduate studies through veterinary After graduation, Dr. Jewett opened a prac- college, he was very involved in leadership tice in Cabot, Ark., a farming community. roles. Following graduation, Dr. Loafmann Within five years, the mixed practice expanded worked for two years before joining the Army to a second clinic in North Little Rock, Ark. in December 1965. After that, he established In 1989, he left to pursue consulting services Equine Medical Associates, a horses-only pracfor a number of pharmaceutical companies tice in St. Louis County, Mo. In addition, the in the U.S., Spain, England and Australia. He Loafmanns have served as Christian missionwas active in organized veterinary medicine aries to the Navajo in Arizona and the Cheyand animal health groups and in 1980 was the enne in Montana as well as in Bolivia and Arkansas Veterinarian of the Year. Dr. Jewett Mongolia. He is active in veterinary medicine Robert Hardy retired in 2011. organizations and serves as the class of 1963 Dr. Hardy worked for the USDA in Georgia, representative.

South Carolina, North Florida, Kentucky and Virginia. After 24 years, he retired for 19 days before going to work for the state of Virginia’s Meat Inspection Program for the next 13½ years when he retired for good.

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Clinton Jewett

Donald Luther

Following graduation, Dr. Luther opened the West Side Animal Clinic in Louisiana and ran it until 1971. Along the way, he earned a doctorate in microbiology with a minor in bio-chemistry. In 1971, he began teaching in the Veterinary Science Department at LSU. In 1994, he retired as a professor emeritus. During the 1980s, he was part of a team that researched Bovine Anaplasmosis and produced a vaccine. In 1999, he became president of University Products LLC, which has USDA approval to market the vaccine in Puerto Rico and 19 U.S. states, including Oklahoma. Dr. Luther continues to do research in human cancer and wildlife diseases.

Don Roach

Prior to attending OSU’s CVM, he served in the U.S. Air Force as a flight instructor in gunnery school. After graduating with his DVM degree, Dr. Roach was in a mixed-animal practice for 12 years. In 1976, he established the Acre View Pet Hospital in Edmond, Okla., and retired from there in 1995.

Don Robertson

Following graduation, Dr. Robertson moved back to North Carolina. In 1966, he established the Oldtown Veterinary Hospital in Winston Salem, N.C. The small animal practice grew from a solo to a five-veterinarian practice before he retired in February 2008. Dr. Robertson and his wife moved to King, N.C., where they now farm 30 acres of the original farm that he grew up on, travel and enjoy their grandchildren.

Lee Simmons

An interest in herpetology (amphibians and reptiles) led Simmons to pursue a career in zoo medicine. Following graduation, Dr. Simmons worked as curator of mammals at the Columbus (Ohio) Zoo. In December 1966, he joined the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Neb., working there until he retired as executive director in March 2009. He is now chairman of the board for the Omaha Zoo Foundation. The zoo is consistently recognized among the top 10 best zoos in North America and under his watch raised more than $200 million for improvements and programs. Dr. Simmons is recognized as being a leader in conservation and the preservation of endangered species, is an inventor designing and manufacturing immobilizing devices used in zoos and in the field, and has many other accomplishments.

Ron Stenseng

After graduation, Dr. Stenseng worked in a mixed practice in Arkansas. In 1965, he joined the USDA Animal Health, covering seven counties in southwest Arkansas. He spent the next 20 years working as section and district veterinarian, brucellosis and tuberculosis epidemiologist, and foreign animal diagnostician, which involved traveling to many states and countries. He was involved in veterinary organizations serving in many leadership positions. In 1978 he was named Arkansas Veterinarian of the Year, the only time a USDA veterinarian was honored. After serving in Bermuda as the government veterinarian, Dr. Stenseng returned to the U.S., working in Florida and South Carolina until he retired in 2003.

Elden Svec

Prior to starting veterinary college at OSU, Svec served in the Navy for four years, earned his bachelor’s degree and got married. After earning his DVM degree, Dr. Svec worked in a mixed animal practice in Scribner, Neb., and bought it after one year. He and his wife were involved in many church and civic activities in the rural Nebraska town where they reared six boys. Dr. Svec died in 2006.

Donald Vrbka

Before starting veterinary college, Vrbka earned a bachelor’s degree and served four years in the Air Force. While working in the Veterinary Science Department in Lincoln, Neb., he took classes to satisfy the requirements for veterinary college and was accepted at OSU. Dr. Vrbka worked in a private practice before working for a feed yard that covered a 70-mile radius in Nebraska. He built a new clinic in Columbus, Neb., and left the feed yard for private practice.

After several years, Dr. Vrbka closed the practice but continued to take ambulatory calls as well as service the feedlot. In 2006, a minor stroke forced his retirement. Dr. Vrbka now volunteers with his church and serves in a prison ministry.

He’s a 25-year Rotarian and has been active in many veterinary and civic organizations.

Charles Warner

Dr. Warner worked in a mixed practice in Bowling Green, Ky., before going home to Charleston, W. Va., where he opened his own practice. The practice grew to five veterinarians and after 35 years, Dr. Warner retired. He and his wife have attended every reunion for the Class of 1963 and enjoyed them all.

James Stone

After graduation, Dr. Stone opened a veterinary clinic in Mangum, Okla. The next year, he built a new clinic and has been there for the past 50 years. His veterinary practice is largely cattle with some small-animal cases. He also works with three greyhound kennels. His son helps him at the clinic, with his own cattle ranch, and with a ranch he manages for someone else. Dr. Stone is still practicing and takes emergency calls 24/7.

John Wehling

After graduation, Dr. Wehling worked briefly in an Oklahoma large-animal clinic. In the fall of 1963, he joined the USDA as a meat inspector.

During his career, the family moved to Texas, California and back to Oklahoma. In 1974, he and his wife spent time in Australia while Dr. Wehling worked in a small animal hospital and with dingoes in a wildlife preserve. They returned to Oklahoma City, where he worked at two clinics. In 1996, they retired to California where Dr. Wehling opened one more clinic. He died in 2001.

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Riding History New Museum on Wheels gives glimpse into CVHS’ past — and present

“ T h i s i s t h e c u l m i n at i o n o f a ‘ p r e s e r vat i o n o f t h e a r c h i v e s ’ p r oj e c t b e g u n m o r e t h a n 3 0 y e a r s ag o w h e n D r . E r i c W i l l i a m s s u g g e s t e d t h at t h e r e wa s a d e f i c i e n c y o f f o c u s o n o u r pa s t ac c o m p l i s h m e n t s .”

— Dr. Billy Clay Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Considering that OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences’ rich history began in 1948, it’s no surprise that many changes have occurred in veterinary medicine since then. The Class of 1970 has decided to preserve some of that history with a Museum on Wheels to help bring public attention to the changes of the profession, the successful veterinary medicine program at OSU, and the impact veterinarians have on all of our lives.

Class of 1970 representative

Dr. Billy Clay rallied his class-

mates for donations to start the project. A 1953 Chevrolet truck was donated to be the foundation for the mobile museum. Stu Preston of AGT Motor Works in Stillwater was commissioned to restore the vehicle. Preston made a pictorial history of the restoration process, which can be viewed at www.agtmotors. com/53chevtruck.php.

“My classmates have contributed generously toward the development of this project and for that we are all grateful,” says Clay. “This is the culmination of a ‘preservation

of the archives’ project begun more than 30 years ago when Dr. Eric Williams suggested that there was a deficiency of focus on our past accomplishments.

“In response, the Class of 1970 initiated an endowment fund through the OSU Foundation to catalog and maintain the archives.

A part of the proceeds from that endowment will be used to maintain the Museum on Wheels,” Clay adds. “To facilitate the ease of transport of the vintage vehicle to var-

“I don’t think people at large realize the importance of veterinary medicine and the role OSU Cowboy alumni veterinarians play,” explains Jean Sander, DVM and dean of the veterinary center. “Veterinarians are often the first line of defense in protecting our food supply. They will be the ones to see a disease outbreak. This traveling museum shows people the rich history of the profession and gives us the opportunity to share what veterinarians are doing today to advance both human and animal health.”

Since in the early years a veterinary truck bed insert had yet to be developed, a 1953 veterinary alumnus, Dr. Roger Panciera, built a wooden insert that a country veterinarian of that era might have made to house his medical instruments. Panciera is not only an alumnus and a beloved Emeritus professor but a skilled woodworker who has made many pieces The truck also acts as a launchof furniture in his spare time. He ing point for discussing the seralso holds the record for longest vices available at OSU’s veterinary tenure at OSU with 57 years of center, including the veterinary teaching. medical hospital, the Oklahoma The truck debuted during the Animal Disease Diagnostic Labious display sites, a trailer was 2012 Fall Veterinary Conference oratory, and the cutting- edge donated by the late Dr. James at Wes Watkins Center on the research by faculty members of Richardson of Poplar Bluff, Mo., Stillwater campus. Plans for the all disciplines and their collabora(also Class of 1970). Many alumni truck include OSU Homecom- tive partners. and classmates have contributed ing parades as well as community To help preserve vintage instruments, books, phar- events where participants can learn the veterinary history maceuticals, etc. We still have room about veterinary medicine in the represented by the past and the current state of the Museum on Wheels, for more items if others might wish contact the Alumni Affairs profession. to donate. Thanks to all!” office at 405-744-5630.

Class of 1970 representative Dr. Billy Clay (left) and alumnus and Professor Emeritus Dr. Roger Panciera pose with the Museum on Wheels.

Clay led the funding drive for the vehicle, and Panciera built the wooden truck bed insert.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Drs. Steve Weir (left) and Bob Shoup have worked together at the Catoosa Small Animal Hospital since 1982.

Weir, the hospital’s founder, is proud of the education he received at OSU and notes, “We only hire OSU graduates.”

Return Gifts 2 alumni show appreciation with continued support story by Derinda Blakeney photography by Phil Shockley

The words “return gifts” may conjure up thoughts of

That was a change of plans for Shoup: “After graduation, I was supstanding in line to return an unwanted item to a store. posed to return to my hometown But for two OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences of McAlester, Okla., and take over another veterinarian’s practice,” he alumni, it refers to their continued support of their says. “It was a solo practice, and I didn’t want to work in a solo practice. alma mater.

Drs. Steve Weir and Bob Shoup consistently I am known to say that I don’t mind give money, time and referral cases to OSU in return working hard but, occasionally, I like for the education they received while earning Doc- to play hard. Having adequate time tor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. off has prevented burnout, and after “I graduated from OSU’s veterinary school in May 30 years, I still enjoy my job.”

1980, got married in June and started the practice — Located on U.S. Highway 66 in Catoosa Small Animal Hospital — in July 1980,” Catoosa, Okla., the clinic offers a recalls Weir. “I was a teaching assistant my senior year wide variety of services from general and knew Bob. When he graduated two years later in veterinary medicine to surgery and 1982, Bob joined the practice and a year later bought dentistry. There is an in-house labointo the practice as a partner.” ratory, ultrasound and digital radiog-

raphy and a boarding facility to take care of the needs of dogs, cats, birds, ferrets, rabbits and other small pets.

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And when the clinic does get a problem that turns out to be more than it can handle, OSU is on call.

“The veterinary medical hospital at Oklahoma State is a great facility that provides care second to none and is a super asset for general practitioners in the field,” says Weir. “If people have problems that a primary veterinarian is not able to handle, it can be handled at the veterinary medical teaching hospital. They provide expertise and diagnostic abilities that the average practitioner simply doesn’t have. We have used them on a regular basis for referrals, and our clients have been extremely happy.

They give excellent care and have cutting-edge veterinary medicine available with an MRI, cat scans and iodine cat radiation therapy.”

Dr. Steve Weir (right) and an assistant examine a bulldog.

“ T h e v e t e r i n a ry m e d i c a l h o s p i ta l at O k l a h o m a S tat e i s a g r e at fac i l i t y t h at p r ov i d e s c a r e s e c o n d to n o n e and is a super asset for general p r ac t i t i o n e r s i n t h e f i e l d.” ­— Dr. Steve Weir

There’s one other distinction for the Catoosa clinic. “We only hire OSU graduates,” Weir says with a smile. “OSU produces veterinary students who are well rounded and make great practitioners.”

And indeed, Laura Embry, Class of 2003, and

Sarah Smith, Class of 2007, also practice at the clinic.

One reason clients travel for miles to bring their animals to Catoosa is that the employees treat each animal as if it was their own pet. The clinic honors their memories with contributions to OSU’s Companion Animal Fund , which supports CVHS research.

“The Companion Animal Fund works great for us,” says Shoup. “Here at the clinic, we all get attached to our clients’ pets almost like they are our pets. When one passes away, it affects all of us. We send a contribution to OSU’s Companion Animal Fund. The veterinary center, in return, sends a very nice letter to the client, saying that a donation was made in their pet’s memory by our clinic. Of all the things we do, I think this is one of the big things clients appreciate.

Owners love knowing that their pet is remembered in such a way that the money may go to help other animals down the road.”

In addition to the Companion Animal Fund, Weir and Shoup donate approximately $20,000 a year to OSU’s veterinary center. They support the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association Student Scholarship Fund, the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital Small Animal Equipment Fund, the Alumni and Friends

Scholarship , the Dean Michael D. Lorenz

Scholarship and the Dean’s Fund for Excellence. They also volunteer their time to sit on the

Dean’s Development Associates, which meets

with Dean Jean Sander, DVM, and the center’s Veterinary Administrative Council through the year. continues

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“If they don’t know the answer, they will find it.They are easy to reach and they promptly call you back. … Other dog owners I know say their dogs hate going to the vet. Mine love it and don’t mind at all. Cracker Jack had kidney problems so I had to bring him in every day. When I would come to pick him up, he would be sitting with the receptionist. They treat everyone’s dog like he is the most important dog in the world. They have time for you; you are not just a number. I can’t say enough good about them.”

— Sharon Price, Tulsa, Okla., breeder of AKC bulldogs (including Cracker Jack)

Sharon Wilson and Sonya

Sharon Price and Cracker Jack

“We love Catoosa Small Animal Clinic and working with Laura (Embry) and Sarah (Smith). Sonya is here today to have her knee checked.

She had knee surgery and it is bothering her. Dr. Weir is going to look at it. If she has cartilage built up, we will probably be referred to Dr. Mark Rochat at OSU’s veterinary medical hospital.”

“I am a huge animal lover. When we moved to Catoosa, I had heard good things about the facility, so this is where we need to be. Strays seem to migrate to my door and when we visit, the staff here is so knowledgeable. … The veterinarians and staff here just have such a personal interest in the animals — they really care.”

— Beth Ann Jensen, Catoosa, owner of three dogs (including Belle) and a cat

— Sharon Wilson, Claremore, Okla., owner of Samoyeds (including Sonya)

In their clients’ own words Beth Ann Jensen and Belle

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“Caring, giving alumni like Steve and Bob are of such importance to the veterinary center,” says Sander.

“They provide a great example for our students of what lies ahead for their careers should they decide to go into private practice. The cases they refer to the veterinary hospital give our students excellent hands-on experience from which to learn. They provide valuable feedback about what practitioners in the field need from future graduates and from us as a referral source. We appreciate all that they do and hope more alumni will follow their example of giving back in whatever capacity they can.”

“As a small animal hospital, we feel that OSU gave us the knowledge and the expertise we needed to have a very successful veterinary practice. One that has provided well for four veterinarians and their families over the years plus provided wonderful jobs for lots and lots of employees,” states Weir.

“OSU gave us a great education,” says Shoup. “They gave us the basics to build upon because your education is just a start. From there, there is no telling what you’ll learn and what avenues you will go down. I received a wealth of information from my instructors and met my classmates at OSU. We just celebrated our 30-year reunion and I am totally amazed at how diversified my classmates have become in different things and roads they have taken (career-wise).”

Dr. Bob Shoup treats a canine client at the Catoosa Small Animal Hospital.

“We owe them a lot for what they gave us,” adds Weir.

“We are blessed at this point in our careers to be in a position where we can donate dollars to the school.

We do as much as we can because everybody knows funding from the state level is not increasing and it’s unlikely to increase. It’s really helpful for practitioners to give some money and help out. It’s money well spent and it goes to a very, very good cause.”

“It’s important that we all donate back to the things that we love and trust and really enjoy,” Shoup says. “That is why Dr. Weir and I have given back to the college. Because this profession has been wonderful to us, we want to give something back so that future generations will have the opportunities that we do.”

For more information on giving to the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, contact Heather Clay, senior director of development and veterinary center team lead for the OSU Foundation at 405-385-5607 or hclay@osugiving.com.

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2013 Gifts and Pledges Thank you to all of our donors who generously support the mission of OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

$500,000 or more

$10,000–$24,999

L. Sheryl Colton and Robert Shaff

William and Sonya Amend

John D. Richardson Trust

American Kennel Club — CAR Canine Support and Animal Relief Fund

$100,000–$499,999

Bayer Health Care

Leora Caulkins Estate

E.L. & Thelma Gaylord Foundation

Dr. Renee and Herb Hammer

Dr. Michael and Velda Lorenz

Sandra M. Lee

Merial Ltd.

Mary K. Oxley Foundation

Novartis Pharma AG

D.D. Patterson

Pauline Wright Estate

W.D. Shoaf Estate/Patricia Empie

$50,000–$99,999

Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges Jack Jacobs Kirkpatrick Foundation Inc.* PetSmart Charities

$25,000–$49,999

Peter and Kimberly Erdoes Helen K. and Arthur E. Johnson Foundation Kirkpatrick Oil Co. Alice J. Levin Estate LiteCure LLC Mercy Work Foundation of Oklahoma

Dr. Bob and Terri Shoup/ Dr. Steven and Pam Weir/ Catoosa Small Animal Hospital Inc.* Travis Lumber LLC/Gilbert and Susan Travis

$5,000–$9,999

$1,000–$4,999

Drs. Kenneth Abrams and Kathleen Pointek Abrams/Veterinary Ophthalmology Services Inc. Alamo Pintado Equine Clinic Inc.* Arkansas Veterinary Medical Foundation AVMA Professional Liability Insurance Trust Dr. Keith L. Bailey Dr. Ben and Karen Baker BancFirst/Stillwater Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma Don Bostwick Lt. Col. Stephanie Bounds Dr. Delia Burchfield* Linda and Gary Burke

Meredith and Scott Blair

Cargill Inc.

Albert C. Bostwick Foundation

Carolina Biological Supply Co.

CarKel Energy LLC ConocoPhillips

Kathryn and Dr. William Carson Jr./Bild Animal Hospital*

Dr. Paul R. and Margaret S. DuBois

CDS East Bay Chapter

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc.

Dr. Robert Poteet/Cedarwood Veterinary Clinic Civic Feline Clinic Heather Clay Colonial Terrace Animal Hospital PC Dr. James and Deborah Conklin* Drs. Kathy and James Cooper Jr. Kendria and Bradley Cost Ruth Cotner Morris D. Covey Estate

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Joyce Doran

Dr. Thomas and Linda Latta

Dr. Chris Ross*

Dow Chemical Foundation

Dr. John LeHew IV and Dr. Theresa Casey

Dr. Ray Saleeb/Katella Animal Clinic

Joshua E. Logsdon

Carolyn Sanders*

Denise Drew Dr. Norman and Jane Durham Eagle Creek Animal Clinic PC Max and Helen Ehrhart Dr. Mark** and Denice Elwell* Robert and Irma Eufinger Kim Finch Foundation for Animal Care & Education Dr. John I. Freeman Marybeth and Ike Glass Jr.* Dr. John and Karen Goedeken Dr. Brent and Christinia Hague/ Oakridge Equine Hospital PC Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Hagyard Pharmacy/ HDM Pharmacy LLC Burns and Ann Hargis S. Kim and Suzette Hatfield Dr. Joseph and Betty Lou Hayden Drs. Gerald Hegreberg and Lynetta Freeman-Hegreberg Cols. Bradford and Annette Hildabrand Bruss Horn DVM PLLC Dr. Kenneth W. Huffman Intervet Inc. Dr. Harry and Hannah James Kelly Foods Corp.

Dr. Cornelia Ketz-Riley and Donald Riley

Dr. Steven and Melissa Lucas Jana and Steven Mackey Dr. John and Debra Marshall/ Cherokee Hills Veterinary Clinic PC Rosana and Michael Mayer Dr. Denis Matousek/Matousek Veterinary Clinic Mid-America Alpaca Foundation Jean Miller Shelley Mullins Drs. Nicholas and Dianne Nail* Nestle Purina Pet Care Co. Newport Laboratories Inc. Northwest Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Jean Sander and Allen Shaffer Drs. Paul and Rebecca Sells Dr. Richard and Mary Shepherd/ Shepherd Farm Dr. D.C. and L. Michelle Smith/ Veterinary Associates Frances Smith Dr. L. Randall and Barbara Smith Dr. Rosemarie and Eric Strong Charles and Joyce Sullivan Textron Matching Gift Program Dr. Anthony and Julia Thomas/ Dr. Stanley and Karel Acree/ ATA Properties Dr. Steven and Carolyn Vonderfecht* Dr. Asheley and Bradley Wathen

Dr. Julia O’Carroll and Dr. Gary Spodnick

Dr. Paul and Sarah Welch/ Forest Trails Animal Hospital

OKC Obedience Training Club Inc.

Mary Ann Wheeler FLP

P&G/Iams Co.

Bernadine Wold

Vicki L. Palmer

World Vets

Dr. Roger J. Panciera

Dr. Steve Yandell

Dr. Brenda Phillips and Dr. David Neal

Zoetis

Piedmont Animal Health Jerry and Donna Pongratz Dorothy and Dan Richardson Dr. James** and Cynthia Richardson

Tim and Tina Ridley*

Dr. William and Mary Roberson*

Dean’s Club members (Gave at least $1,000 to the Dean’s Fund for Excellence) Deceased individual

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Kincade presents stem cell program Sponsored by the OSU Adult

Stem Cell Focus Group, Paul

W. Kincade, Ph.D., presented

“Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research in Oklahoma” in May

at the McElroy Hall Auditorium.

Kincade is a memb er and program chair of the Immunobiology and Cancer Research Program, holds the William H. and Rita Bell Chair in Biomedical Research and is the vice president of research at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. He is also the scientific director for the Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research (OCASCR).

His research focuses on immune system development and adult hematopoietic stem cells, also called HSCs. HSCs are the most studied stem cells in clinical trials taking place within the United States. According to Kincade, marrow transplants have been saving lives for 30 years. New studies suggest that other types of adult stem cells can be used for treating cancer, diabetes, spinal cord injuries and more. OCASCR was created to promote adult stem cell research with funding provided by the Okla-

Alumnus wins group’s top honor AABP

homa Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust.

Lin Liu and Paul Kincade visit before the stem cell program.

Dr. Tom Latta of Spearman, Texas, was named the Bovine Practitioner of the Year by the American Association of Bovine Practitioners at its 2013 conference in Milwaukee. The award, sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc., honors a veterinarian in active practice who has made significant contributions to bovine medicine. Latta earned his DVM at OSU in 1968.

Photo provided

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Schofield wins 2-year pre-doctoral fellowship

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

‘Vet Med Moment’ to air on KOSU The “Vet Med Moment” is a 60-second spot that will begin airing soon on KOSU radio focusing on important animal health issues that are interesting and informative for animal owners and lovers.

Funded by the Kirkpatrick Foundation, the Vet Med Moment will feature a “topic of the week” that airs several times on KOSU. Listeners can learn about everyday animal health care tips to seasonal news to specialty procedures available at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital.

“We want to get helpful tips on animal welfare out to the public and felt KOSU’s NPR network was a great way to accomplish that,” explains Dr. Lesa Staubus, clinical assistant professor in shelter medicine at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital and coordinator of the program.

“The Kirkpatrick Foundation was a natural sponsor as their goal is to make Oklahoma the most humane place to be an animal.”

“We are very excited about the launch of this unique content collaboration,” says Kelly Burley, KOSU director. “Public radio listeners are hungry for programming related to animal issues, and each week, ‘Vet Med Moment’ will provide useable information directly from the experts that will make a positive difference for animals.”

The program is scheduled to begin in November.

Amber Schofield has received Schofield, of Oklahoma City, a pre-doctoral fellowship from the started veterinary college with the American Heart Association. The Class of 2015. She has completed $50,000 grant for two years is to two years of study and will spend study “IFIT viral sensor mediates the next two years in Liu’s lab on Axin 1-induced Type I IFN syn- this fellowship. In 2015, she will thesis.” In other words, Schofield re-enter the veterinary program will be investigating the innate to graduate with a DVM degree in immune response to the influ- 2017. She is planning to pursue a enza virus, which has been shown doctorate in veterinary biomedito contribute to cardiovascular dis- cal sciences. ease, the leading cause of death in “The veterinary center currently the western world. has three students participating “Amber received a score of 1.05 in the DVM/PhD dual degree and a percentile of 96 percent on program,” explains Dr. Chris Ross, her application,” says Dr. Lin Liu, associate dean of academic affairs. director of the Lung Biology and “Supported primarily by the LunToxicology Laboratory at the veter- dberg-Kienlen endowment, dualinary center. “This is the best score degree students also serve as I have ever seen, particularly con- graduate teaching assistants or sidering that she only completed earn extramural grants as Amber a 10-week summer research pro- has done. A long-term goal of gram and a three - credit-hour the program is to gain extramural research elective by the time she funding to expand the number of completed the grant application. students and laboratories involved.”

Well done, Amber.”

Vet Cetera takes top honors The 2012 issue of Vet Cetera took first place in the printed publication magazine category at the Public Relations Society of America Oklahoma City Chapter’s Upper Case Awards ceremony.

To top that, it took Best in Show for the tactic category, beating out 49 other entries that included brochures, magazines, annual reports, newsletters, collateral materials, one-time publications, straight news, feature stories, radio, podcast, TV or promotional video scripts, internal videos, external videos, websites, multimedia communications, slideshows/presentations/webinars and social media projects.

The 2011 issue had been honored by the group with a secondplace Merit Award a year earlier. That year, no first-place honor was awarded.

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in memoriam

We honor those who have served the profession, our distinguished colleagues and friends.

The couple moved to El Reno, and Dr. Denny became a partner at the Canadian Valley Animal Clinic. He retired in 2002.

Dr. Jack Allen Jack C. Allen, DVM, of Derby, Kan., died July 13, 2012. He was 85.

He was born in Okmulgee, Okla. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1963 and had a small animal veterinary practice in Derby from 1963 until 1993.

Dr. Denny also owned and operated Denny Stables, where he boarded horses and stood “Ima Doc O’Lena” at stud for many years. He and his former roping partner Buddy Crump were honored with the naming of the Denny/ Crump Rodeo Arena in El Reno.

He actively supported his profession, serving as Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association president in 1985. Dr. Denny was named the 2008 Oklahoma Veterinarian of the Year and served as the official veterinarian for the National Finals Rodeo for 20 years and the International Finals Rodeo for 18 years.

Dr. Denny also served on the Canadian Valley Vo-Tech School Board for 20 years, as OSU alumni director for Canadian County and as a Canadian County underwater deputy. He was a Boy Scout leader, an active member of the Wesley Methodist Church and an OSU College Memorial contributions may be made to the of Veterinary Medicine adjunct professor for Salvation Army at 1101 S. Lowry, Stillwater, 20 years. The Dennys hosted 65 veterinary students in their home over the years.

OK 74074.

Dr. Allen is survived by his wife, Evelyn; two sons, Jack Curtis Allen Jr. and Dr. Steven Allen and his wife, Anne; one daughter, Diane Johnson and her husband, Douglas; and four grandchildren.

Source: Derby Informer of Derby, Kan.

Marvin Luther ‘Doc’ Denny Jr. El Reno veterinarian Dr. Marvin Luther “Doc” Denny Jr., 76, died July 15, 2012, after a 2½ -year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Oologah, Okla., he later lived in Oklahoma City and graduated from Central High School there. He attended Oklahoma A&M College and in 1954, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served two years. During his tour of duty, he married Norma Jean Lynch. Following his military service, he returned to OSU and earned his DVM degree in 1961.

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He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Norma Jean; daughter, Laura Kennedy and her husband Dwayne of El Reno; sons Marvin Lee Denny and his wife, Lynn, of Oklahoma City and Chris Denny of El Reno; seven grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; two sisters; one brother; and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Dr. Joe Dixon Dr. Joe M. Dixon, of Lakeland, Fla., died May 13, 2012. He was 94.

He was born in Dustin, Okla., and served as a captain in the U.S. Army from 1941 through 1945. He continued to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves until 1952.

He was among the second veterinary class to graduate from what was then Oklahoma A&M College, earning his DVM degree in 1952. Following graduation, Dr. Dixon practiced large animal medicine in Tulsa. In 1955, he joined the Louisiana State University Agricultural Experiment Station’s veterinary science department.

In 1958, he earned a master’s degree in animal nutrition from LSU and went on to become a professor of veterinary science at LSU’s veterinary college.

Dr. Dixon was active in the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association for more than 27 years. In 1970, he was named Louisiana’s Veterinarian of the Year. Dr. Dixon left LSU in 1980 to establish his own mobile dairy and beef cattle practice in Louisiana and MissisMemorial donations may be made to the Wes- sippi. He specialized in bovine herd reproducley United Methodist Church, 101 S. Barker, El tive management and raised Jerseys.

Reno, OK 73036; Oklahoma State University Foundation, c/o Oklahoma State Univer- Dr. Dixon retired to Lakeland in 1993 and consity, 308 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078; tinued a very active life, serving as a volunteer or Russell- Murray Hospice, P.O. Box 1423, El at Bok Tower Sanctuary. He also volunteered for the Florida Department of Corrections’ Reno, OK 73036. prison-operated nurseries. He loved growing Sources: Denny family and El Reno Tribune unusual plants and participated in many local garden shows.

Joe is survived by two daughters, Peggy Pressler and Nancy Taliancich; two stepdaughters, Gana Van Laanen and Andrea Morgan; one stepson, Kipp Van Laanen; three grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren and one great-grandson.

Source: Lakeland Ledger, Lakeland, Fla.

When he was 12, he worked with cattle on Shady Creek Farm in Tulsa, where he developed his interest in animals. In 1952, he graduated from Central High School in Tulsa. After one year of college, he secured a ranch hand position at the Wyoming Hereford Ranch near Cheyenne, Wyo.

Dr. Mark Elwell Yukon, Okla., veterinarian Dr. Mark I. Elwell died July 15, 2013. He was 56.

Born in Enid, Okla., he grew up in Fairview, Okla. During high school, he was active in FFA, basketball and football. Both of his degrees came from OSU: a bachelor’s in animal science in 1979 and a DVM in 1982.

Dr. Elwell practiced veterinary medicine at West Yukon Animal Hospital and was working there at the time of his death. He enjoyed running, golfing, snow skiing and canoeing.

Some of his favorite times were tailgating with family and friends on game days in Stillwater.

He is survived by his wife, Denice; two sons, Marcus and his wife Shannon of Oklahoma City, and Lucas of Houston; three brothers and one sister. Memorial donations may be made to Pets and People, 701 Inla Ave., Yukon, OK 73099 and the OSU Foundation for the Companion Animal Fund, Fund #2884200, c/o Sharon Worrell, 308 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078.

Source: Yanda & Son Funeral Home

In 1986, Dr. Flanagan took his first short-term mission trip to Haiti. The next thing he knew, he was asking his wife, Jan, what she thought about living in Haiti. Working with the Christian Veterinary Mission, he planned to set up some programs, train people in animal health care and return to the States. He was still there In January 1954, he enlisted in the Army and was 26 years later — serving God, the people of stationed in Karlsruhe, West Germany. In GerHaiti and the profession of veterinary medicine. many, he met his wife, Brunhilde, of the Black Forest town of Dossenbach, and they married Dr. Flanagan held many positions and was in 1956. After returning to the States, he worked involved in several projects and programs as an auto parts delivery driver until he decided including developing potable water, training to go back to school to pursue a degree in vet- animal health agents, acting as liaison to the erinary medicine at Oklahoma State University. Haitian Ministry of Agriculture, serving as codirector of the Classical Swine Fever program Dr. Fingerlin graduated in 1963 and worked for and co-director of the Avian Influenza proother veterinarians for several years. In 1972, gram, to name a few. he moved to Bixby and opened the Bixby Small Animal Hospital.

He was a 2011 Distinguished Alumnus of the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine. At the He was very active in the state and local veteritime of the award, he said his wish was that nary associations. He served as chairman of the the programs he helped implement and the Legislative Committee of the Oklahoma Veterwork he has done will keep moving forward inary Medical Association for many terms. He even after he is gone. He was highly respected worked with the Boy Scouts from the 1960s and will be missed by many. through the mid-1980s, starting as a scoutmaster and often serving as veterinary Explorer post Dr. Flanagan is survived by his wife of 43 years, adviser. In 1982, he received the Silver Beaver Jan Bullard Flanagan; two sons Sean Flanagan Award, the highest award an adult leader can and his wife Chandra of Priceville, Ala.; and achieve in the Boy Scouts. In 1989, Dr. Fingerlin Brian Flanagan and his wife Robin of Ithaca, received the OVMA’s Companion Animal Prac- N.Y.; three grandchildren; his mother, Rosella titioner of the Year Award. In 1995, he received Flanagan; two brothers, one sister and numerthe OVMA Veterinarian of the Year Award rec- ous other family members. Memorial gifts may ognizing his achievements and service. be given to the Christian Veterinary Mission at www.cvmusa.org/Flanagan.

Dr. Fingerlin is survived by his wife, Brunhilde; Source: Marlow Review children, Jim, John (and his wife Deanna) and Karen; three grandchildren; and a sister and a brother.

Source: Floral Haven Funeral Home

Dr. Donald D. Ford Dr. Donald D. Ford of Wann, Okla., died Nov. 19, 2012. He was 77.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956.

On Dec. 26, 1956, he married Betty Jeanine Hayden in Miami, Okla. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1961.

Dr. Eugene Fingerlin Dr. Eugene “Gene” Fingerlin, of Bixby, Okla., died April 28, 2013, in Tulsa, Okla. He was 75.

He was born in 1934 in Tulsa to Agnes Louise Tyner Fingerlin of Bernice, Okla., and Eugene Fingerlin, an immigrant from the Black Forest in Germany. As a toddler, Gene was stricken with polio and had to learn how to walk again with one leg somewhat shorter than the other.

He developed good manual dexterity, which aided him later when he became a veterinary surgeon.

Dr. Keith Flanagan Dr. Keith Flanagan, of Texhoma, Okla., died April 3, 2013, at the Aventura Hospital and Medical Center in Aventura, Fla. He was 64.

Early in his career, Dr. Ford worked in Montana and South Dakota before returning to Oklahoma and teaching at OSU in the 1965-66 school year. In 1979, he established the Ford Veterinary Clinic in South Coffeyville, Okla., where he practiced for the next 33 years. He was a member of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association. continues

Born in Texhoma, he graduated from Texhoma High School and attended Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Okla. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1978, then spent the next two years as a captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps. Dr. Flanagan spent the next seven years working at the Marlow Veterinary Clinic with his classmate Dr. Lyndon Graf.

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in memoriam

In 1993, Dr. Ford’s first wife died. On Jan. 22, 2000, he married Judith K. Pool of Coffeyville, Kan. She survives him, as does a daughter, Patricia Rae Ford of Blue Springs, Mo.; a son, Robert E. Lee Ford and his wife Alicia of Kingwood, Texas; a stepdaughter, Kimberly Johnston of Bartlesville, Okla.; a stepson, Kevin Pool of Coffeyville, Kan.; three grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; and a brother, Ronald Tell Ford (who got his DVM from OSU in 1965) and his wife Charolette of Lemmon, S.D. Sources: JAVMA News; David W. Barnes Funeral Home

Dr. Robert Lindsey Hardy

Dr. Hastings is survived by her father, Harold Harlow of Tulsa; husband, Mike Hastings of Just a few weeks before he passed Red Lodge; son, Seth and his wife Michelle away, Dr. Robert L. Hardy celebrated Hastings of Edmond; sister, Susan Worrell of the 50-year reunion of his veterinary Tulsa; brothers Carl Calhoun of Moore, Okla.; school class in Stillwater. and Don Harlow of Chouteau, Okla.; and more Dr. Hardy, who lived in Kill Devil Hills, N.C., relatives and friends. made the trek back to OSU on May 3-4 to Memorial donations may be made to Bare mark the event with his classmates from the Tooth Cupboards, P.O. Box 665, Red Lodge, Class of 1963. He died May 30, 2013.

MT 59068.

Dr. Hardy spent most of his years working as a Source: Carbon County News of Red Lodge, Mont. veterinarian. He started with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, staying there for 24 years, before moving on to the Virginia Department of Agriculture for 13 years.

Dr. Joe (J.B.) Jolliffe He was known by many as “Doc” and had a keen sense of humor that helped him touch the hearts of many. He enjoyed spending time at the Outer Banks and was known for his cookouts. His motto was to live each day to the fullest.

Dr. Gaylord French Jr. Dr. Gaylord Howard French Jr., of Crozet, Va., died Sept. 28, 2012, at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, Va. He was 74.

Dr. Hardy was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Jean Hardy. Survivors include his daughter, Louise Wagner and her husband, Jim, of Smithfield, Va.; his son, Lindsey Hardy and his wife, Missy, of Reston, Va.; two granddaughters, a great-granddaughter, a stepgranddaughter and stepgrandson and step great-grandson along with other relatives and close friends.

Dr. Joe (J.B.) Jolliffe, of Kingwood, W. Va., died March 25, 2013. He was 84.

He went to school in Wetzel County, W.Va., and attended West Virginia University for his undergraduate degree. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1958.

Dr. Jolliffe practiced veterinary medicine in Preston County, W.Va., for 54 years. For the last 25 years, he also operated Jolliffe Nursery in Knob Fork, W.Va., a farm established by his great-grandfather in 1874 and a Christmas tree farm since 1949.

Dr. Jolliffe is survived by his wife Ann; three daughters, Patricia Bennett and her husband G.H. “Gig” French was born in Eden, N.C. He Mark, Nancy Schlegel and her husband Robearned his DVM degree from OSU in 1963 and Memorial contributions may be made to the ert, and Mary Henry and her husband Steve; practiced veterinary medicine for more than American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, and three grandsons. Memorial gifts may be 50 years. For the past 22 years, Dr. French Glen Allen, VA 23058 or https://donate.amer- made to Best Friends Animal Society at www. worked for Allied Animal Hospital in Rich- icanheart.org. bestfriends.org or mailed to 5001 Angel CanSource: Smithfield Times mond, Va., and other animal hospitals and yon Road, Kanab, Utah 84741. clinics throughout Virginia.

Source: Tennant Funeral Home

From 1963 to 1965, Dr. French served in the U.S. Air Force; he was passionate about aviation and was a licensed pilot. He also loved skydiving. A member of the North Carolina Angus Association, he bred Angus cattle his entire life, starting with working with his father at Sunny Home Farm in Eden.

Sandra Ritchie French, his wife of 44 years, preceded him in death. He is survived by two daughters, Kristi French Williamson and her husband J.P., Amy French Boatright and her husband Kyle; and four grandsons.

Source: The News & Advance, Lynchburg, Va.

Dr. Paul Kunneman Dr. Paul L. Kunneman, of Kingfisher, Okla., died Aug. 27, 2012, at Deaconess Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was 78.

Born in Kingfisher, Dr. Kunneman was a lifelong resident of the Kingfisher area.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in zoology in 1955 and his DVM degree in 1958, both from OSU. Following graduation, Dr. Kunneman Dr. Janice Harlow Hastings, of Red began his lifelong career as a meat inspecLodge, Mont., died June 10, 2012, after tor for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. a long battle with cancer. She was 57.

Upon retirement, he farmed and raised catBorn in Edmond, Okla., she grew up in Tulsa, tle full-time.

Okla. She earned degrees in elementary education and chemistry from Cameron Univer- He was a member of the Emmanuel Lutheran sity in Lawton before earning her DVM degree Church. He also enjoyed collecting coins and guns. from OSU in 1994.

Dr. Janice Harlow Hastings

Dr. Kunneman is survived by a nephew, Dale Kunneman, and a niece, Glenda Kunneman Gatz.

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Memorial donations may be made to either OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences (checks payable to OSU Foundation), 308 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078 or Kingfisher Educational Foundation (directed to the vocational agriculture department), P.O. Box 24, Kingfisher, OK 73750.

Source: The Kingfisher Times & Free Press

Born in Manistee, Mich., he and his family moved to St. Louis when he was a young child, where he developed a love of Cardinal baseball. In the late 1940s, the family moved to Oklahoma City, and in 1958, he graduated from John Marshall High School there. He served in the U.S. Air Force in Japan and Morocco. After leaving the military, he earned a bachelor’s degree in medical technology from the University of Oklahoma in 1967. He continued his studies at Oklahoma State University, earning a DVM degree in 1972.

Following graduation, Dr. Linnemann worked at the Westwood Veterinary Hospital in Norman with two OSU alumni — Drs. Don Biles (’68) and David Marx (’69) before opening his own practice, Park Lane Veterinary Hospital, which served Norman and surrounding communities.

Linnemann was voted “Best Veterinarian” in the Norman Transcript’s Readers’ Choice Awards several times over. He also received the PittDr. George Lester of Alexandria, La., man-Moore Award for research in porphyria, died April 27, 2013. He was 81. a metabolic disorder, and the Small Animal CliA year after he graduated from OSU College nician Award from Upjohn. He also hosted a of Veterinary Medicine in 1958, he and his radio show, “Pet Talk,” that aired Sundays on family moved to Alexandria and opened Les- KREF-AM (1400) in Norman for more than ter Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Lester practiced 12 years. there until he fell ill in late April. He belonged Linnemann was a member of the Oklahoma to veterinary organizations and was beloved Veterinary Medical Association and the Amerby his clients who said he had great bedside ican Veterinary Medical Association. He was a manner, compassion for animals and owners founding member of the Sooner Rotary Club, and was a loving veterinarian. where he actively served for 26 years, and a Dr. George Lester

Survivors include his life partner, Edie Davenport; three sons, Ron and his wife Ellen Lester, George “Greg” and his wife Beth Lester, and David “Allen” and his wife Christina Lester; three daughters, Jan and her husband Kenny Clark, Pam and her husband Randall Nethery, and Allison and her husband Scott Hancock; 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude’s at 800-805-5856 or donors@stjude.org.

Source: The Town Talk, Alexandria, La.

member of the Norman Business Association.

He and his wife, Michelle, are members of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Norman.

He loved all music, including playing classical guitar. He enjoyed ballet and especially the OU production of The Nutcracker when his daughter, Mikayla, danced in it when she was 8 and 12. He also enjoyed reading and photography, including photographing the Norman 89er parade every year.

Dr. Billy Joe “Bill” McDougal Oklahoma State University alumnus Dr. Billy Joe “Bill” McDougal of Houston died Jan. 22, 2013. He was 71.

Born in Paris, Texas, he grew up in Valliant, Okla., lettering in baseball and basketball. He was president of the Methodist Youth Fellowship and the Valliant FFA. He met and married his wife of 52½ years, Ann Riddle, in Valliant.

In 2010, Dr. McDougal was inducted into the Valliant Hall of Fame.

He earned both his bachelor’s degree (’63) and DVM degree (’65) from OSU. He completed post-graduate training in immunology at the University of Texas Health Science Center and went on to be a clinical instructor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine and an adjunct professor of veterinary medicine at Texas A&M University.

Dr. McDougal opened his first veterinary clinic in Houston in 1965. He began his specialty in dermatology in 1970 and founded the Veterinary Allergy and Dermatology Referral Clinic in 1981, one of the first specialty practices established.

He was the past president of the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology, past president and life member of the Harris County Veterinary Medical Association and an author and nationally renowned speaker on dermatology.

Dr. McDougal was an avid sportsman, enjoying deer hunting, saltwater fishing, scuba diving, tennis, golf and dancing. He and his wife embraced life and excelled in everything they did.

He is survived by his wife, Ann; two daughters, Julie Gillaspie and her husband, Tommy, and Dana Kurtin and her husband, Tim, all of Houston; and a son, B.J. McDougal and his wife, Ellen, of Katy, Texas; and 10 grandchilLinnemann is survived by his wife, Michelle; dren. Memorial donations may be made to children, Mikayla Linnemann of Lexington, Amy the CEPC Music Fund, Christ Evangelical PresLinnemann Peters and Rhett Jones, both of byterian Church, 8300 Katy Freeway, HousNorman; two grandsons; two brothers; two sis- ton, TX 77024.

Source: Houston Chronicle ters; and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many patients and clients alike. continues

Memorial donations may be made in honor of Dr. Philip L. Linnemann to the Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Bill Osborne, Sooner Rotary Club, 101 E. Gray, Suite A, Norman, OK 74069.

Source: Havenbrook Funeral Home

Dr. Philip Linnemann Following a brief illness, Dr. Philip Linnemann of Lexington, Okla., died March 27, 2013, at the HealthPlex in Norman, Okla. He was 72.

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in memoriam

In the military, Dr. Patterson was chief of laboratory services in the Aero-Medical Field Laboratory at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. He helped train primates used in research, including Ham, the first chimpanzee in space.

In 1958, he joined the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania as an instructor in veterinary cardiology, later becoming a professor.

Dr. Andrew W. Monlux A diplomate of the American College of VetDr. Andrew W. Monlux, 93, of Stillwater, died erinary Internal Medicine, Dr. Patterson had July 4, 2013. Dr. Monlux was an Emeritus been professor emeritus of medicine and Regents Professor of Veterinary Pathology. medical genetics at the University of PennBorn in Algona, Iowa, he earned his DVM sylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and degree from Iowa State University in 1942 and professor emeritus of human genetics at the spent the next four years serving in the U.S. University of Pennsylvania School of MediArmy Veterinary Corps. After that, he con- cine since 2000. ducted research for the U.S. Department of During his 42-year tenure at Penn, Dr. PatAgriculture on bovine, porcine and ovine can- terson served as the first chief of the Section cers for the next five years. of Clinical Cardiology, established the Penn Dr. Monlux joined OSU’s College of Veteri- Medical Genetics Clinic, and founded and nary Medicine in 1956 as professor and head served as chief of the first academic subdiviof the Department of Veterinary Pathology. sion devoted to medical genetics in a school He retired in 1985, having served as depart- of veterinary medicine.

Dr. James Richardson Dr. James O. Richardson, of Naylor, Mo., died Dec. 8, 2012, in Poplar Bluff, Mo. He was 67.

He was born in Winston-Salem, N.C. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1970 and was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Dr. Richardson opened Hillcrest Animal Hospital in Poplar Bluff in 1972 and operated it for 40 years. He was a member of Poplar Bluff’s First United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia “Cyndi” of Naylor; daughter, Monica Eva Foster and her husband, Joshua, of Spartanburg, S.C.; three sons, Carl Swanson and his wife, Michelle, of Harrison Township, Mich., Michael Richardment head for 16 years. During his tenure, a From 1985-2000, he was the principal investi- son of Fayetteville, Ark., and Aaron Richardgraduate program in Veterinary Pathology gator for the Veterinary School Referral Center son and his wife, Heidi, of Stillwater, Okla.; six was approved that allowed the college to for Animal Models of Human Genetic Disease. grandchildren, three brothers and numerous gain full accreditation from the AVMA. He also In 1995, he founded and directed the Center nieces, nephews and friends. received an NIH grant to classify and publish for Research in Comparative Medical Genetics.

Memorial gifts may be made to Haven House, research on dog and cat tumors collected in With his expertise in animal genetics, cardioP.O. Box 4975, Poplar Bluff, MO 63902 or Habthe Tulsa area. This project was part of the vascular diseases and congenital malformaitat for Humanity, P.O. Box 965, Poplar Bluff, national effort to learn more about the nature tions, Dr. Patterson helped conduct National MO 63902. and origins of cancer by understanding the Institutes of Health-supported research to Source: Cotrell Funeral Service occurrence of cancer in domesticated animals. identify and characterize the role of genetic Survivors include a son, Roy Monlux and his defects in cardiac development in dogs. wife, Angela, of Oklahoma City; a daughter, Dr. Patterson was a member of many organiLaura Wilson and her husband, Bob, of Dallas; zations. He was a past trustee for the Seeing Dr. Everett Short four grandchildren and three great-grandchil- Eye Inc. and a past member of the board of scidren. Memorials may be sent to Salem Lutheran entific reviewers for the American Journal of Dr. Everett C. Short Jr. died July 15, 2013, on his farm in Perkins, Okla. He was 81.

Church, 101 S. Duck St., Stillwater, OK 74074.

Veterinary Research. He received several honSource: Stillwater NewsPress ors, including the AVMA Gaines Award (1972) Born in Monette, Mo., he grew up and attended for contributions to small animal medicine, schools in Missouri. After graduating from high the American Animal Hospital Association’s school, he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving as Award of Merit (1982) for research identify- an F80 pilot from 1952 to 1955. He earned a ing specific types of cardiovascular disease in bachelor’s degree from Kent State University dogs, and the OSU College of Veterinary Med- in 1958, a DVM degree from Colorado State Uniicine Distinguished Alumnus Award (1990), to versity in 1962 and a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota in 1968, where he taught until 1979. mention a few.

Dr. Donald Patterson Dr. Donald F. Patterson of Seattle died June 8, 2013. He was 82.

After he earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1954, he completed an internship at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, where he became interested in hematology. He then taught briefly before joining the U.S. Air Force.

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Dr. Patterson is survived by two sons, two grandsons and two granddaughters. Memorial contributions may be made to the Seeing Eye Foundation, P.O. Box 375, Morristown, N.J. 07963; University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Gifts Accounting and Administration, 3451 Walnut St., 433 Franklin Building, Philadelphia, PA 19104; or Alzheimer’s Foundation, 322 Eighth Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

Source: JAVMA News: Sept. 1, 2013

Dr. Short joined OSU in 1979 as the head of the Department of Physiological Sciences. In 1982, he met Susanne Trent, and they married in 1984. The couple purchased land in Perkins and began Alpha Angus Farm, where they raised registered Angus cattle. After the birth of their son, Charles, Dr. Short retired to spend time with his family on the farm.

Dr. Short enjoyed welding and building things, reading, studying the Civil War and watching birds around his property. He was a member of the American Angus Association and the Oklahoma Cattleman’s Association.

Dr. Short is survived by his wife, Susanne; four Dr. Turner co-founded the Central Louisiana sons, Charles of Perkins, Jim and his wife Tricia Food Bank, served as president of the Coalition of Colorado, Steve and his wife Lisa of Idaho, Against Homelessness in Central Louisiana, voland Charlie and his wife Diane of Texas; and unteered for the Central Louisiana Veterinarifour grandchildren. Memorial donations may ans Association, Louisiana Board of Veterinary be made to the University of Montana Osprey Medicine, American Red Cross, and ShepProgram and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology herd Center, and received the Lion’s Club Outin care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home, 5106 standing Citizen Award. He also served on the N. Washington, Stillwater, OK 74075.

Louisiana State Board of Veterinarians as secretary/treasurer, vice president and the chair- Dr. Luther Ewing Wilcoxson Source: Palmer Marler Funeral Home man of the preceptorship committee. In 1993, Dr. Luther Ewing Wilcoxson, of Shawnee, he received the Ralph C. Cooper Veterinarian Okla., died July 27, 2012. He was 89. of the Year Award for the state of Louisiana.

Born in Sayre, Okla., he was the youngest of Dr. Turner is survived by his wife of 49 years, 11 children and graduated from Merritt High Janice Turner; three children, Scott Turner School in Elk City, Okla. He served in the Navy and his wife Kimberly of Pensacola, Fla., Kelly from 1942 until the end of World War II. In 1943, Fields and her husband Don of Alexandria, La., he married his childhood sweetheart, Chrisand Matt Turner and his wife Micara of Pin- tine Blackburn. eville; seven grandchildren; and one brother, Dr. Wilcoxson earned his veterinary degree at Frank Turner of Beckley, W.Va. Oklahoma A&M College, graduating with the Source: The Town Talk, Alexandria, La. first class of veterinarians in 1951. He practiced 36 years as a partner in the Shawnee Animal Dr. Kenneth Kinney Stinson Hospital. Dr. Wilcoxson held every office in Dr. Kenneth K. Stinson, 88, of Okeechobee, the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical AssociaDr. John ‘Roger’ Wyant Fla., died at home on December 15, 2012. tion serving as its president in 1964. He was Dr. John “Roger” Wyant, of a member of the planning committee for the The dedicated Marine loved his country and Piedmont, Okla., died May 8, 2013, Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Labfought in Saipan, Tihian, Okinawa, the Mar- in Oklahoma City. He was 75. oratory, a veterinarian for the National High ianas Islands and the Ryukyu Islands durSchool Rodeo Finals, served on the Charham He was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and studing World War II, earning a Purple Heart for ied as an undergraduate at the University of Therapeutic Arena Board at St. Gregory’s Colhis service.

Oklahoma. He earned his DVM degree from lege and volunteered his services to the abbey.

His highest honor came when he was named After the war, he earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma State University in 1965. the 1980 Oklahoma Veterinarian of the Year.

OSU in 1954.

Following his graduation, Dr. Wyant opened Dr. Stinson enjoyed sailing and diving as well the Great Plains Veterinary Hospital in Lawton, He was also active in his community as a memas being a black belt martial arts instructor.

Okla. He most recently worked with Swaim ber of the Shriners, the Lions Club and a Free Mason with 50 years of service. He volunSerum Co. in Oklahoma City.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Rosalie teered with Future Farmers of America and Stinson of Okeechobee; his son, Patrick Stin- He enjoyed golfing, hunting, hiking, gardening, 4-H and was a member of St. Paul’s United son and his daughter, Teresa Brooks and her fishing, socializing and playing cards. He always Methodist Church in Shawnee since 1951. husband, Paul, all of Arkansas. loved time spent with his family and friends.

In 2007, Dr. Wilcoxson had the honor of Source: Buxton Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory Dr. Wyant is survived by his wife, Lucia Wyant; returning to his alma mater in Stillwater, daughters, Allison Wyant, Cindy Squyres and Okla., to hood his grandson, Will Sims, as Will her husband David, Ashley Landers and her earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma State husband Tony, Lisa Green and her husband University.

Dr. Dale Osborne Turner Chad, Dorothy Vela and her husband Ruben Dr. Dale Osborne Turner, 76, died Nov. 30, Jr., and Juanita Jung and her husband Steve; Dr. Wilcoxson is survived by two daughters, 2012, at his residence in Pineville, La. son, Marcus Wyant and his wife Ramona; and Denise Bennett and her husband Richard of Denver and Lisa Sims and her husband Randy 12 grandchildren.

Born in Renick, W.Va., he earned his bacheof Pauls Valley, Okla.; four grandchildren, two Source: The Oklahoman lor’s degree from West Virginia University and great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephserved four years in the U.S. Air Force. In 1964, ews and cousins. he earned his DVM degree from OSU. While Memorial gifts may be made to OSU Center he was in veterinary school, he met and marfor Veterinary Health Sciences. Checks can ried the love of his life, Janice Ivey. be mailed to Oklahoma State University, 308 He began his veterinary practice in AlexanMcElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, made paydria, La., in 1965 with Dr. Billy Knapp. Shortly able to the OSU Foundation with Dr. Wilcoxthereafter, he opened Turner Animal Clinic. He son Memorial Fund No. 28-8550 in the check was known for his kindness, humor and stories. notation. Gifts may also be made to St. Paul’s He became legally blind due to retinitis pigUnited Methodist Church, 301 N. Beard Ave., mentosa, which forced his retirement in 1985.

Shawnee, OK 74801.

Source: News-Star

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Bits & Pieces

… From the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences at OSU From the Publishing World …

Three of the four co-authors of a new book, Atlas of Canine and Feline Peripheral Blood Smears, earned their DVM degrees from Oklahoma State University: Drs. Amy C. Valenciano, Rick L. Cowell (’78), Theresa E. Rizzi (’98), and Ronald D. Tyler Sr. (’77).

Rizzi is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology.

Dr. Henry Jann, associate professor of equine surgery, is the editor of The Equine Tendon in Health and Disease. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation.

Presentations and More …

Drs. Sanjay Kapil , Pradyumna Baviskar and Tom Oomens each presented at the 32nd Annual Meeting of the American Society for Virology at the Pennsylvania State University in University Park, Pa. Dr. Kapil, professor of virology at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, presented a poster on “Canine Parvovirus Diagnosis and Surveillance in the USA.” Pradyumna Baviskar, a Ph.D. student in Dr. Oomens’ lab, gave an oral presentation in the paramyxovirus section entitled, “The RSV fusion protein cytoplasmic tail facilitates an assembly step in the transition from inclusion body to viral filament.” Dr. Oomens, assistant professor of veterinary pathobiology, presented a poster on work carried out by OSU undergraduate student Kelsie Brooks and research specialist Becky Duncan-Decocq, titled “The role of secreted G protein in production of infectious RSV.” Dr. Oomens was also a co-author on two presentations concerning vaccinerelated RSV work by collaborators of Emory University in Atlanta and Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio.

Dr. Kapil also presented information on canine parvovirus 2c in two locations in Southern California and two more in Washington state. A total of 80 veterinarians and staff attended the seminars hosted by the Orange Belt Veterinary Medical Association in Riverside, Calif., and Orange, Calif. Approximately 75 veterinarians and staff from Washington and Idaho heard him in Spokane, Wash., and Yakima, Wash.

Dr. Robin Allison represented the CVHS at the 2nd Symposium for Diagnostic Veterinary Clinical Pathology held in Warsaw, Poland. She presented lectures about in-clinic hematology and the cytologic diagnosis of mesenchymal neoplasia. An interpreter was provided for the lectures and her lecture notes were translated into Polish.

Student Candace Wimbish (’14) presented this year’s student case at the 2013 International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Symposium in San Diego. She presented “Acute Kitty: The use of hemodialysis for acute kidney injury following radiation therapy for cutaneous lymphoma.” She worked on this patient while performing an externship in Texas with Dr. Lisa Thompson and staff. Dr. Andrew Hanzlicek also provided guidance on the case submission.

A total of 160 veterinarians attended the OSU/OVMA Summer Seminar and heard these presenters: Drs. Keith Bailey, Ryan Baumwart, Mary Bowles, Jill Brunker, Michael Davis, Dee Griffin, Andrew Hanzlicek, Todd Holbrook, Henry Jann, James Meinkoth, Sandra Morgan, Sabrina Reilly, Grant Rezabek, Jerry Ritchey, Mike Schoonover, Lesa Staubus, D.L. Step and Lara Sypniewski.

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Grants, Awards and Honors …

Dr. Robert W. Fulton received funding from the OSU Technology Business Development Program for the project entitled, “Bovine Herpesvirus-1: Selection of Genetic Variants for Vaccine Development and Evaluation.” The funded grant was then matched by Novartis Animal Health, Greensboro, N.C., for “Bovine Herpesvirus-1: Evaluation of Genetic Diversity of Field Strains From Various Clinical Forms.” Dr. Fulton is a Regents Professor and the McCasland Foundation Endowed Chair for Food Animal Research in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology.

Dr. Fulton also received funding from Zoetis Animal Health for “Bovine Respiratory Coronaviruses: Viral Challenge using BVDV Co-challenge and In Vitro Characterization of Isolates.” Dr. Anthony Confer, Regents Professor and Sitlington Endowed Chair, and Dr. Julia Ridpath, USDA National Animal Disease Center in Ames, Iowa, are co-investigators for the project.

Dr. Todd Holbrook , equine section chief, won the 2013 Oklahoma Reining Horse Association’s (OKRHA) Buckle Show in the Rookie Level II. The two-day event was in Tulsa. At an OKRHA show at the Lazy E in Guthrie, Dr. Holbrook and his daughter, Emma, each had scores that placed them at the top of their respective classes, earning two plaques, money and a pewter trophy.

Dr. Roy Smith (’62) is the 2013 president of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. He owns Central Texas Cat Hospital in Round Rock, Texas. Dr. Smith has served as president of the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation and treasurer of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association. He has also served as president and treasurer of the Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice, the president of the Capital Area Veterinary Medical Association and member of the Board of Directors for the Veterinary Information Network.

OSU students J.D. Folsom (’15) and Holt Tripp (’15) received an Amstutz Scholarship at the American Association of Bovine Practitioners annual convention. A $7,500 award is given each year to nine third-year veterinary students in honor of the late Dr. Howard Amstutz. Tripp also received an AABP Bovine Veterinary Student Recognition Award sponsored by Merck Animal Health. This $5,000 award included airfare and travel expenses to attend the conference.

Transitions …

Bruce Nance, Animal Resources, has retired after 30 years of service at the CVHS. He started as an animal caretaker and worked his way up through the ranks to his current position of veterinary lab manager.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Vets’ Pets Dean adds rescued puppy to household

Daisy, a puppy in an animal CVHS Dean Dr. Jean Sander has added a new shelter, was at OSU’s Veterinary member to her family in Medical Hospital for her spay by the form of a rescued supervised veterinary students honmixed-breed puppy ing their surgical skills. Dr. Lesa from the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences’ Staubus, a clinical assistant profesShelter Medicine Program. sor who works with the hospital’s Shelter Medicine Program, saw the puppy and called Sander, who was looking for a new dog.

“Daisy is a sweet puppy, and we enjoy having her,” says Dr. Sander.

“She and her cat brother seem to be getting along just fine. We needed a dog after mine passed away, and it just makes sense to rescue one rather than have one purposely bred for us. And who wouldn’t love such a sweet face?”

OSU’s Shelter Medicine Program collaborates with more than a dozen animal shelters and performs spay/neuter surgery on more than 4,000 cats and dogs each year. The program gives students valuable clinical experience while shelter animals receive needed veterinary medical care.

Dr. Jean Sander and Daisy, her 12-week-old rescued puppy

Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

Non-Profit organization U.S. POSTAGE P A I D

308 McElroy Hall Stillwater, Oklahoma 74078-2011

Stillwater, OK Permit No. 191

Feeling All Better Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Elliot the horse and his owner Deana Seeley are seeing brighter days now, after his treatment at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Hospital, spearheaded by Dr. Todd Holbrook. / 72