Vet Cetera 2012

The official magazine of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University 2012

Healthy Animals — Healthy People

Vet Cetera magaz i n e

F a l l

2 0 1 2 / V o l ume

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Photography / phil shockley

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 64 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 c ­ onnect 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 © 2012

COVER: Natty, a bullmastiff puppy, belongs to Dr. Dianne McFarlane, an assistant professor in physiological sciences at OSU. For more on the dog, see Page 112. Photography by Phil Shockley

4 N E W F A C E S Eight new faculty members have joined OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

2 0 I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E A C H A Tulsa alum is making a difference in Mongolia.

2 4 A D U C K Y T I M E OSU’s veterinary hospital has added a mascot of a different breed. Quack!

2 7 N E W T R I C K S OSU veterinarians add traditional Chinese treatments to their medicine bags for tough chronic cases.

4 0 H O N O R S Students and faculty members win recognition for their successes.

71 LEARNING Special lectures and conferences expand students’ education.

7 6 G R A D U AT E S A look at some members of the Class of 2012.

9 8 C O N N E C T I O N S Reunions and remembrances

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

Raina Pannee (Class of 2013) examines Roz, who is owned by Dr. Rebecca Morton (’72) in the communications lab, where students practice polishing their ability to talk with future patients’ owners. Story, Page 64 Jean Sander, DVM, MAM, DACPV Dean, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

Derinda Blakeney, APR

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

Sharon Worrell

Alumni Relations Specialist

Amanda Davis, MPA, CFRE Senior Director of Development

Dorothy L. Pugh Editor

Paul V. Fleming

Art Director / Designer

Phil Shockley / Gary Lawson Staff Photographers

Matt Elliott / Randi Rother Contributing Writers

Michael Baker

Associate Editor

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/Sept. 2012/4357

From the Dean’s Office One year in ‌

As I near the end of my first year as dean of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, I reflect on several things: why I chose to come here, what has been accomplished since I arrived, and what are the next right steps to take going forward.

Our educational programs prepare outstanding graduates who are highly sought by employers. The students acquire enhanced surgical skills due to the collaborative efforts of the This college has dedicated experts shelter medicine program, which who strive to provide a great educa- combines public service with service tional experience for both our gradu- learning. And they become loyal and ate and professional students; seek to engaged alumni. obtain adequate funding to continue My focus this year has been to build innovative and impactful discover- relationships and engage friends of ies that will result in new treatment the college to connect as active parmodalities, new vaccines and new ticipants in the future vision. In addidiagnostic test methods; and pro- tion to meeting and getting to know vide a wide range of medical services several legislators and regents, I have to the people of Oklahoma through worked with industry and producer direct pet and livestock medical care groups to gain a better understandas well as diagnostic services to prac- ing of their needs and how we might collaborate for the greater good of all. tices and owners.

It is imperative that we connect with The facilities available here to our stakeholders to help them better train students and conduct research understand our abilities and to enter provide opportunities not available elsewhere include but are not lim- into conversations where we can learn ited to the Oklahoma Animal Disease what they need from us.

We have engaged with many of our constituents through the Oklahoma Livestock Relief Coalition. This organization, with CVHS as a charter member, was founded through the efforts of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association to support the health needs of animals confiscated by law enforcement authorities because of abandonment or neglect.

It is expected that more folks will be unable to provide care for their animals due to the significant drought in Oklahoma. The organization raises funds to support these animals by providing feed and health care while they are being held prior to more permanent placement.

Diagnostic Laboratory, the Equine Research Park and the Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

Thanks for your past, current and future support of this great college!

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

First, I came to Oklahoma State University because I found it to be one of the best-kept secrets in veterinary medical education in the United States.

I do expect that as the year progresses, we will continue to connect with the various stakeholders of this college. Veterinary medicine is a great profession, one that I am proud to be a part of.

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

s h i n i n g s ta r s

OSU names ‘shining stars’ during veterinary celebration In 2011, OSU joined in the worldwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of veterinary medicine. Veterinary medicine serves society by helping to protect the health of animals, humans and the ecosystem. Veterinarians are key public health stakeholders who play critical roles in reducing global hunger, controlling diseases that affect both humans and animals, ensuring the safety and quality of the food supply, advancing biomedical research and protecting the biodiversity of the environment.

In recognition of the 250th anniversary of veterinary medicine, OSU highlighted its “shining stars” — faculty members who have had valuable impacts on veterinary medicine throughout their illustrious careers.

A look at the shining stars and highlights of their accomplishments:

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Helen E. Jordan Demonstrated value of mixed grazing for control of parasitism in ruminants Showed how life cycles of trematodes can be exploited for control purposes First female full professor at OSU’s veterinary college, mentoring women veterinary students in era when profession was male-dominated

Sidney A. Ewing First to report ehrlichiosis in North America, he studied it and other tick-borne diseases extensively Mentored veterinary and graduate students in veterinary parasitology Served administrative roles in veterinary medical settings at three land-grant institutions and fostered the preservation of veterinary medical history

Richard V. Shawley Established anesthesiology as an OSU clinical rotation, giving students more hands-on experience Instituted the use of gas anesthesia in large-animal surgery labs Co-investigator to determine the pathophysiological effects of Cantharidin and development of treatment protocols to address severe electrolyte alterations in horses

John G. Kirkpatrick Recipient of six teaching awards while serving as large-animal clinician Co-investigator of study comparing bovine respiratory disease vaccination strategies Developed a production medicine elective, exposing students to experts relating to livestock production

William C. Edwards Pioneered work in toxicology of oil field wastes Mentored several students in veterinary toxicology Established investigative techniques in veterinary forensics

Tom R. Thedford National Educational Program regarding the economic impact of brucellosis and the benefits of eradication system Pioneer in distance veterinary continuing education National expert in small ruminant medicine and surgery; pivotal in developing health and preventative care of Camelids

Roger J. Panciera First to demonstrate Cryptosporidium infection in cattle Pioneer work in several toxicoses, including oak, vetch, blister beetle poisoning; and parasitisms, including ehrlichiosis and American canine hepatozoonosis Mentored many veterinary students and veterinary pathologists

Rebecca J. Morton Taught infectious diseases for 20 years; three-time winner of Norden Distinguished Teaching Award and two-time winner of OSU Regents Distinguished Teaching Award Studied Francisella tularensis, especially diagnosis and treatment of feline tularemia, and pathogenesis, vaccine development and tick-associated aspects of tularemia National Academies of Science team member; co-author of Biological Science and Biotechnology in Russia: Controlling Diseases and Enhancing Security

E. Wynn Jones Conducted sponsored research on anemia and immune mechanisms in bovine anaplasmosis Pioneered rapid intravenous anesthesia induction in horses and closed-circuit inhalant anesthesia in large and small animals Discovered anesthetic-induced porcine malignant hyperthermia and helped develop diagnosis and treatment for it in domestic animals and humans photos provided

2012 Oklahoma State University

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Who’s New

New faces

Faculty members Phil Shockley / university Marketing

Shelby Hayden, DVM, MS, diplomate, American College of Theriogenologists, is a clinical assistant professor in theriogenology in Veterinary Clinical Sciences. Originally from Valley Falls, Kan., she earned her DVM degree at Kansas State University and her master’s degree in biomedical sciences at Texas A&M University.

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Hayden completed a rotating large-animal medicine and surgery internship at the University of Tennessee and a residency in equine theriogenology at Texas A&M University. Her research interests focus on equine breeding management.

She was a four-year starter for the Fort Hays State University Lady Tiger basketball team while she was completing her pre-veterinary requirements in Kansas. She enjoys working out and participating in most athletic activities as well as watching sports.

Dr. VĂŠronique Lacombe is an associate professor in the Department of Physiological Sciences.

Kelci McKeirnan, DVM, MS, joins the veterinary center as a clinical instructor in smallanimal surgery.

Originally from Woodinville, Wash., she earned her DVM from Washington State University. In 2007, she came to Oklahoma State for a small-animal medicine and surgery internship followed by an American Board of Veterinary Practitioners residency. In 2009, she began a three-year residency in small-animal surgery. She then accepted a one-year position in small-animal surgery joining OSU’s small-animal surgery team, Dr. Danielle Dugat and Dr. Mark Rochat.

She grew up in France and earned her DVM from the National Veterinary School of MaisonsAlfort near Paris. She completed an equine internship there as well. At Ohio State University, she completed a residency in large-animal internal medicine, earned her Ph.D. in comparative exercise physiology and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the College of Pharmacy.

Her laboratory primarily studies metabolism and its disorders during diabetes, insulin resistance and obesity.

Phil Shockley / university Marketing

In her spare time, Lacombe enjoys spending time with her husband, as well as hiking, horseback riding and skiing. continues

In her spare time, McKeirnan enjoys downhill skiing, fly fishing, reading and hiking.

Phil Shockley / university Marketing

2012 Oklahoma State University

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Who’s New

Hospital

adds new MRI

The Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital has added a 1.5T GE EchoSpeed MRI unit to its advanced imaging capabilities. The unit, housed in a trailer on the north side of the hospital, can accommodate dogs, cats, small ruminants, potbelly pigs and exotic patients up to around 300 pounds.

Referring veterinarians can call with any questions about using this MRI on specific patients. The number for consultations, referral appointments or other questions is 866-654-7007. Currently, an MRI scan costs $600, plus the anesthesia fees.

Additional imaging modalities are available, including:

Upgraded nuclear scintigraphy equipment I131 treatment package for hyperthyroid cats, which includes a thyroid scan, isotope treatment and posttreatment hospitalization, is $882 inclusive. Any pre-treatment diagnostics would be an additional cost.

Four-slice helical GE Lightspeed QXi CT with 3D imaging software. The general cost is $400-$800, plus the anesthesia fees, depending on the type of scan needed.

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Holly Polf, DVM, diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Radiology, is a clinical assistant professor of diagnostic imaging in Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

Originally from Tulsa, she earned her DVM degree from OSU in 2003, then did a rotating small-animal medicine and surgery internship at Florida Veterinary Specialists. She practiced in a small-animal general veterinary practice for three years before completing a radiology internship and residency at Texas Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists in Houston. Polf ’s research interests focus on cross-sectional imaging.

In her spare time, Polf enjoys reading, cooking, horseback riding, walking her dogs and spending time with her family.

Phil Shockley / university Marketing

Dr. Ashish Ranjan is an assistant professor in Physiological Sciences . Originally from Jharkhand, India, he earned his BVSc degree (equivalent to a DVM) from Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Science University in Chennai, India. He earned a Ph.D. in biomedical and veterinary sciences from Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State

University and was a visiting fellow at the Center for Interventional Oncology in radiology and imaging sciences at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md.

Following graduation, she completed a one-year internship in equine medicine at Manor Equine Hospital in Monkton, Md. Reilly then came to OSU in 2009 for a one-year internship in anesthesiology followed by a three-year residency in anesthesia at the University of Tennessee.

Reilly’s research interests include the effect of general anesthesia on large captive felids and the interaction of injectable and inhalational anesthetics.

gary lawson / university marketing

Ranjan’s research interests focus on nanocarrier-mediated targeted drug delivery, image-guided therapy and nanotoxicology.

He is a sports enthusiast and in his spare time enjoys outdoor activities and watching sports as well as spending time with his wife, Sangeeta, and son, Aarvin.

Photo provided

Dr. Sabrina Reilly is a clinical assistant professor of anesthesiology in Veterinary Clinical Sciences. Born in New York City, she grew up in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Reilly earned her bachelor’s degree in animal bioscience from Penn State University and her DVM degree from the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown, Prince Edward, Canada.

In her spare time, Reilly enjoys art, music, museums, yoga, hiking, kickboxing and cooking. continues

2012 Oklahoma State University

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Who’s New

Dr. Jonathan Pucket joins Veterinary Clinical Sciences as a clinical assistant professor of ophthalmology.

Originally from Sand Springs, Okla., he studied at the University of Tulsa and Northeastern State University. In 2008, Pucket earned his DVM from OSU. He completed a one-year rotating internship in small-animal medicine and surgery at OSU before a three-year residency in veterinary ophthalmology at Kansas State University. While completing his residency, Pucket simultaneously earned a master’s degree in biomedical science. His research interests are corneal sensitivity and corneal surgery.

Photo provided

In his spare time, Pucket enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer Nickel-Pucket, DVM (OSU ’08), running and being an avid fan of OSU sports teams.

Mike J. Schoonover, DVM, MS, DACVS-LA, is an assistant professor of equine surgery in Veterinary Clinical Sciences. Originally from Velma, Okla., he earned his DVM from OSU in 2000. He completed a yearlong internship in Equine Field Services at Ohio State University, then returned to Oklahoma State to complete a three-year residency in equine surgery while earning his master’s degree in veterinary biomedical sciences. In 2007, he became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, Large Animal Specialty.

In 2004, Schoonover began working as an equine surgeon/associate veterinarian for Interstate Equine Services Inc. in Goldsby, Okla. While there, he supervised an internship/externship program directing the selection, instruction and mentoring of veterinary students and first-year veterinarians.

His research interests focus on equine sports medicine, lameness evaluation modalities and regenerative medicine. He was the 2008 Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association Equine Practitioner of the Year and often provided guest lectures for OSU. In his spare time, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife Jennifer (Moore) Schoonover, DVM (OSU ’00) and their two boys, Willie and Garrett, as well as attending OSU sporting events.

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New faces

Staff members

Rose “Gaylene” Hargrove is the director of fiscal affairs for the veterinary center. Originally from Buffalo, Okla., she earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA from OSU. Hargrove is a massage therapist who has “jumped out of a perfectly good airplane.” In her spare time, she enjoys sewing, creating, traveling and solving puzzles.

Phil Shockley / university Marketing

Bruce Williamson is the hospital administrator at the Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. He was an “Army brat” but considers Boerne, Texas, his home. Williamson earned his bachelor’s degree in management and his MBA from OSU. Bruce graduated from high school in Bangkok, Thailand, and owns an OSU tailgating bus.

He enjoys running, fishing, barbecuing, remote-controlled aircraft and tailgating.

Photo provided Phil Shockley / university Marketing

2012 Oklahoma State University

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P r o m o t i o n s / R e a pp o i n t m e n t s gary lawson / university marketing

Faculty promotions announced

Dr. Lesa Staubus was promoted from lecturer to clinical assistant professor in Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

Along with Dr. Kimberly Carter, Staubus teaches surgical and anesthetic techniques in conjunction with shelter medicine and wellness veterinary care.

Staubus is a 1990 DVM graduate of OSU.

Dr. Christina Bourne was promoted from an assistant research scientist to an associate research scientist in veterinary pathobiology.

Bourne holds a Ph.D. in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Her research interests focus on the visualization of molecules by application of crystallographic techniques.

Phil Shockley / university Marketing

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Dr. Pamela Lloyd was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor with tenure in Physiological Sciences. Lloyd holds a Ph.D. in physiology, specializing in cardiovascular physiology. Her research interests focus on angiogenesis, arteriogenesis, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, peripheral arterial disease and coronary artery disease.

gary lawson / university marketing

Dr. Kimberly Carter was promoted from a lecturer to a clinical assistant professor in Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

A 1989 alumna of OSU, she teaches surgical techniques in the junior surgery laboratory and shelter medicine. Her research interests are in scrotal neuter techniques and pediatric spay and neuter. continues

gary lawson / university marketing

2012 Oklahoma State University

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P r o m o t i o n s / R e a pp o i n t m e n t s

Gary lawson / university Marketing

Dr. Jared Taylor was reappointed to assistant professor in veterinary pathobiology. Taylor teaches veterinary epidemiology and public health. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine in Large Animal and a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. His research interests focus on the interface of veterinary medicine and public health and beef cattle production medicine.

Dr. Theresa Rizzi was promoted from clinical assistant professor to clinical associate professor in veterinary pathobiology. Rizzi is a 1998 DVM graduate from OSU. She is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists in clinical pathology. Her research interests focus on Cytauxzoon felis: treatment and disease prevalence.

In addition, she collaborates as a contributing cytopathologist on other research projects.

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Phil Shockley / university Marketing

gary lawson / university Marketing

Dr. Mason Reichard was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor with tenure in veterinary pathobiology. He holds a Ph.D. in veterinary biomedical sciences with a specialization in veterinary parasitology from OSU. Reichard teaches Veterinary Parasitology I and II and Diseases and Management of Free-Ranging Wild Animals.

He also maintains a research program that focuses on zoonotic and tick-borne diseases of wild and domestic animals.

Congrats to new endowed chairs

Lara Sypniewski, DVM, diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, has been appointed to the Patricia Henthorne Clinical Professorship in Small-Animal Medicine. Sypniewski, a community practice veterinarian in veterinary clinical sciences, is the first person to hold this professorship.

Dianne McFarlane, DVM, Ph.D., diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine — LargeAnimal Specialty, has been appointed to the Ricks Rapp Professorship in Musculoskeletal Research. She is an associate professor in Physiological Sciences.

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In the news

Veterinary center pair recognized for inventions Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Sahlu Ayalew (from left) and

Katherine Kocan show off

their certificates of recognition by the OSU chapter

of the National Academy of Inventors with

OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Dean Jean Sander.

The Oklahoma State University chapter of the National Academy of Inventors recognized 23 inductees during its inaugural induction ceremony this year. Among those honored were Sahlu Ayalew and Katherine Kocan of OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

leads a team that partnered with researchers at the University of Minnesota to develop a cell culture system (the first in-vitro system of growing the pathogen outside of a tick or cow) for Anaplasma marginale (the organism that causes bovine anaplasmosis, a tick-borne disease of cattle). The patent involves the method of growing the Anaplasma Assistant research professor Sahlu Ayalew, marginale in cultured tick cells and for the use of Ph.D., is part of a veterinary pathobiology team antigens generated from this system in vaccine that studies Mannheimia haemolytica, a bacformulations. terium that is one of the agents responsible for bovine respiratory disease, in order to develop According to the academy, it “supports the sysprotective vaccines against it. Bovine respiratory tematic application of organized knowledge and disease costs the beef industry more than $1 bil- information that can generate technology and lion per year. produce creative solutions to existing problems.

The team’s research involves identifying spe- Inventors are the discoverers and creators of these cific proteins of M. haemolytica, which stimulate solutions and, as such, are key contributors to the the immune system and can be used to engineer advancement of technology.”

“OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is vaccines that may have protective qualities. During the past few years, the team has secured two proud to have such forward-thinking researchers,” says Dr. Jean Sander, dean of the veterinary cenU.S. patents, and the work is ongoing.

Katherine Kocan, Ph.D., OSU Regents Profes- ter. “New technologies or inventions play a key role sor, Walter Sitlington Endowed Chair in Food Ani- in the economic development of the world, and the mal Research and fellow of the Society for Tropical veterinary center’s researchers make an important Veterinary Medicine, is known internationally for contribution to that system.”

her work with ticks and tick-borne diseases. She

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— Derinda Blakeney

retirements

Leaving a Lasting Impression

Dr. Charles MacAllister It takes a team to make OSU’s veterinary center successful.

And like every team, sometimes one player stands out and really makes a positive impact. Such is the case of the 33-year career of Dr. Charles MacAllister. He came to OSU’s veterinary hospital in 1979 to fill a one-year instructor position in the equine section and he stayed until he retired. In fact, he met his wife Carolynn of 30 years here.

Born in Woodbur y, N. J., MacAllister studied at St. Petersburg Junior College and the University of Florida. He earned his DVM with high honors from Auburn University in 1979. In 1987, he passed the requirements to become board certified and a diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Large Animal.

“Late in my fourth year of veterinary school, Dr. Steve Swaim told me about an open position at OSU,” MacAllister recalls. “I wanted to pursue an academic career, and the job turned out to be just what I was looking for.

Faculty and staff were very supportive. The students were eager to learn along with me. Dr. Tom Monin took me under his wing and taught me the practical aspects of equine medicine and surgery that he had learned and developed during his long tenure at OSU.”

MacAllister earned an Outstanding Third-Year Instructor award (1992-93), the SmithK l i n e B e e c h a m Aw a r d f o r Research Excellence (1994) and the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association’s Equine Practitioner of the Year Award (1994).

The last 10 years, he has served as head of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences.

MacAllister worked closely with the veterinary hospital director, Dr. Mark Neer, who oversees the day-to-day operation of the hospital.

As the man in charge, MacAllister was responsible for producing quality, effective teaching, research and service programs, as well as promoting outreach and extension activities. In other words, he ran a tight ship that covered all the waters while providing the best in veterinary service for hospital clients and their animals.

ing in the small-animal clinic.

“He has done an excellent job promoting the development of several clinical specialties in the department and hospital. He developed the Equine Research Park largely on gifts and grants and contracts from companies.”

“Dr. MacAllister served as interim hospital director before I was hired,” Neer says. “He laid the groundwork, and when I took over as hospital director, it was with a solid foundation “It has been extremely reward- on which to build. We are foring to work with and help teach tunate to have such loyal clients, many hundreds of veterinary with many of them expressing students,” MacAllister says. their gratitude through finan“When I see former students cial donations. Three years ago, many years after they gradu- the hospital celebrated a comate and they tell me they still pletely renovated small-animal remember things I taught them critical care unit, thanks to the — that is very rewarding!” private donations of more than 75 donors.”

MacAllister also held the Ricks Rapp Professorship in The clinical skills training site Comparative Musculoskele- for fourth-year veterinary stutal Research and is director of dents, the hospital is open to the the veterinary center’s Equine public and handles an average Research Park, located north of of 11,250 veterinary cases a year. the campus. His research inter“Dr. MacAllister’s leadership ests focused on equine internal style is to seek input, listen medicine, diagnostic endoscopy, patiently and to act with congastrointestinal diseases, phar- viction,” says Dr. Michael Lorenz, macology and pain management. Regents Service Professor work-

continues

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retirements

And the hospital clients who bring their animals for treatment by the faculty and staff under MacAllister’s direction mirror that praise.

“OSU’s Small Animal Clinic sets the standard for medical care,” says Avis Scaramucci of Oklahoma City. “Staff members exceed expectations with knowledge and awareness of each animal in their care. The compassionate care given to the animals has been consistently so.”

“Dr. MacAllister’s door was always open for us,” adds Dr. Melanie Boileau, associate professor in Food-Animal Medicine and Surgery. “The role of the department head is critical for the success of the hospital for many reasons including supporting and mentoring faculty development, bringing in extramural dollars through faculty research, and thinking outside the box to move the department forward.”

“Sometimes by the time a patient is referred to us, the situation is too far advanced for our clinicians to fix it,” MacAllister explains. “In those cases, we do our best to make the patient comfortable and give the family and the pet as much quality time together as possible.”

“I have been coming here for 2½ years — awesome people,” Lee Burk of Tulsa, Okla., says about his experience with his dog and the hospital’s ophthalmology service.

“Without question, this was the very best experience I have had with a veterinary staff in the 35 years I’ve been involved with livestock. Great job,” says Kenny Brdecko of Wheeler, Texas, who brought his horse to the largeanimal clinic.

“I’ve been to several veterinary school hospitals and OSU’s service is by far the best,” reports Leslie Maynard of Arizona.

“I drove over 1,000 miles to bring Wiglet (potbellied pig) to your care, which was all very professional.”

“My experience at OSU’s largeanimal clinic was wonderful. I called the clinic and within an hour received a call back. My horse was seen and the veterinary students and staff were so nice answering my abundant questions thoroughly,” says Todd Palmer of Sperry, Okla., and Midland, Texas. “I loved the experience of being involved in the evaluation and diagnosis of my horse and listening to the thought process of the students — excellent service.”

The impact MacAllister has had on the veterinary center and its hospital will live on for years after he retires. With his newfound freedom, MacAllister has some projects in mind.

“We have been adding onto our home for 30 years,” he says.

“An initial priority in retirement will be to finally complete unfinished home projects. Other plans include dealing with the many trees that were downed on our property during a 2011 tornado, spending more time with my family, traveling, and volunteering in the Stillwater community. This has been a great place to live and raise a family, and I look forward to having the time and opportunities to give back.”

— Derinda Blakeney

Staff members In 2012, the Center for Veterinary Health Maxine Miller was a Physical Plant cusSciences thanked two long-time staff mem- todian. Assigned to the veterinary center for bers for their years of loyal service. Marilyn her 36-year career, Maxine spent a few years Moffat was the coordinator of financial and at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic customer services at the veterinary hospi- Laboratory before moving to McElroy Hall. She tal. During her 37 years at the hospital, Moffat was responsible for keeping the dean’s office oversaw accounts payable, accounts receivable gleaming, among others, and took great pride and small-animal and large-animal reception in her job. areas. She was a great role model for co-workers because she simply lived good customer service and always greeted everyone with a friendly smile.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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“ I t h a s b e e n e x t r e m e ly r e wa r d i n g to wo r k w i t h a n d h e lp t e ac h many hundreds of v e t e r i n a ry s t ud e n t s .�

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retirements

Dr. Bill Johnson Dr. Bill Johnson is closing the door on a career that has spanned four decades — and his ties to OSU go back even further.

Johnson started his student career at Oklahoma State University in 1967. While juggling his studies, he maintained a job at Frisco Railroad during school breaks and, with the help of his parents, he graduated from veterinary school in 1973 debt-free.

“ I lov e pat h o lo gy. …

Ev e ry c a s e i s a n e w pu z z l e to s o lv e .”

“I think I had $15 in my checking account when I graduated, but I had no debt. Something rare nowadays,” he recalls.

Johnson was also one of the last groups of students accepted into veterinary school after two years of pre-veterinary medicine.

“I remember one of my clients asking me my first year out of veterinary school, ‘Are you a real vet?’”

His first job after graduation was with a veterinarian in Grove, Okla., where he gained a lot of experience with a variety of animals.

While at OSU, Johnson met his wife, Eileen, who graduated from OSU’s veterinary school in 1974. The couple practiced in Grove for a year before leasing a mixed-animal practice in Chelsea, Okla.

In January 1977, Dr. E.L. Stair, the chief pathologist for the newly opened Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at OSU, approached Bill Johnson to take a position in the pathology residency program at OADDL.

“I love pathology. It never ceases to amaze me what the different diseases can do. Every case is a new puzzle to solve. There are so many new diseases that we have to deal with today that either did not exist or we did not have the means to diagnose them when I started my residency.”

OSU’s OADDL provides diagnostic services to animal owners and aids in training students in pathology and diagnostic testing. OADDL also works with researchers on their diagnostic testing needs.

“I was recognizing that I enjoyed cutting up the aniJohnson has a long list of mals that died, trying to find achievements as director of what went wrong more than I OADDL, including working enjoyed treating the animals.” with Oklahoma’s agriculture Johnson was a pathology secretary to secure funding for resident at OSU’s OADDL OADDL upgrades and implefrom 1977 until 1980. He then menting those upgrades. He became an instructor in the for- was also very involved in helpmer department of pathology ing OADDL become a member before returning to OADDL of the National Animal Health as an assistant professor in Laboratory Network. pathology in 1981. In 1988, he left for Davis, Calif., to work for the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory at the University of California.

Johnson returned to his cowboy roots in 2001 as the chief pathologist and assistant director for the OADDL.

Even though Johnson is retiring, he plans to remain active.

“I would like to grow and sell good quality hay, get back to building furniture and maybe learn leather working. While my body still functions, I would like to return to rock climbing and most importantly, travel with my wife and see every state.”

— Randi Rother

Editor’s note: Randi Rother is an intern from OSU’s School of Media and Strategic Communications.

Dr. Bill Johnson accepted his first position with OSU in 1977.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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In the news

“ I wa s f i r s t i n t r o duc e d to the Christian V e t e r i n a ry Mission when I wa s i n v e t e r i n a ry c o ll e g e .”

— Dr. MarY Ballenger

phil shockley / university marketing

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The Mongolian Connection Tulsa alum is making a difference in Asian nation

Home is where the heart is, a veterinarian, a mother and a they say — and for Dr. Mary wife. Her husband taught busiBallenger, that heart (and ness skills, and their children home) has been in Mongolia for helped through drama skits. several years.

“Our oldest son was attending Ballenger, originally of Tulsa, Oral Roberts University in Tulsa earned her DVM in 1981 from at the time and then joined the OSU. A small-animal practi- U.S. Marines, so he’s never been tioner, she spent the next 23 to Mongolia. Something about years working with Veterinary Mongolia called to each one of Associates in Tulsa. But slowly, us during that two-week visit. I she began to follow a different saw that I could make a differcalling. ence by educating the Mongolian veterinarians on not only small“I was first introduced to the animal medicine but large aniChristian Veterinary Mission mal as well.

I know that while when I was in veterinary colin veterinary college, I grumlege,” says Ballenger. “I contribbled about studying equine and uted monthly to the CVM to help food-animal medicine.

I was support large-animal veterinarians who were working overseas going to work in small-animal medicine. But I must say that doing wonderful things.”

I appreciate that I was exposed Ballenger’s support continued to that; I have pulled on that after graduation. She met several knowledge numerous times,” Christian veterinarians at variBallenger says.

“Richard realized ous veterinary conferences. he could help teach Mongolians “I was asked to volunteer at the how to run a productive busiCVM exhibit booth during the ness. Our teenage son, George, Oklahoma Veterinary Medical stopped thinking about buying Association’s annual convention, really cool electronics in Korea which I did. Then I was asked for less than he could in the to serve on their board in 1993.

United States and started wonWhile serving as chairperson in dering what it would be like to 2000, I was asked to present at be home-schooled in Mongolia a women’s veterinary seminar in and to reach out to needy MonMongolia,” she recounts. golians. Our then-fifth-grade That presentation took Bal- daughter, Sally, just fell in love lenger, her husband, Richard, with the people. But making a and two of their three children to big move like that needed a lot Mongolia in 2001 for two weeks. of thought and prayer, so we She shared what it was like to be returned home.”

by Derinda Blakeney

After talking and praying about the decision, the Ballengers realized they needed to be in Mongolia.

“On Feb. 14, 2004, we moved to Mongolia,” says Ballenger.

“We intended to move back home by Christmas 2006 to give George time to graduate with his high school class. As the time for our departure moved closer, George made the comment that we didn’t need to return on his account; he was fine graduating in Mongolia. So we stayed and have been working there for the past eight years.”

Working through Mongolia V.E.T. Net, a nonprofit nongovernment organization, and with Christian Veterinary Mission, Ballenger is the adviser for veterinary continuing education. She develops continuing education courses and curriculum for Mongolian veterinarians, who share that knowledge with others practicing in more rural areas. These country veterinarians work with herdsmen who tend horses, cattle, yaks, sheep, goats and camels.

“It takes about a year to develop a 32- to 35-hour weeklong training program,” says Ballenger. “We write it in English and then translate it into Mongolian. Then you have to ‘Mongolize’ it; just because it works in Oklahoma or New York doesn’t mean it will work in continues

Dr. Mary Ballenger and her husband Richard have lived in Mongolia since 2004, working with veterinarians there to improve their care and business capabilities.

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In the news

phil shockley / university marketing

Representing OSU in the agreement is alumnus Dr. Tim Snider, Class of 1996. He and Ballenger, as well as other participants, teach Mongolian veterinary students to better prepare them for fieldwork.

“When communism controlled Mongolia, the government provided vaccines for the veterinarians to administer at no cost. We “The veterinary students in had to teach the veterinarians Mongolia have rudimentary infec- to charge for their services,” she tious disease and parasitology says. “At first, payment was a certraining and no surgery experi- tain amount of sheep to provide ence,” explains Snider. “We’re veterinary medicine for a horse. trying to change that.”

Now, the Mongolian veterinariSnider is also on a separate ans are mostly paid in cash.” multidisciplinary team on OSU’s And it’s not all about the cash.

Stillwater campus that is inter“Veterinary medicine in Monested in international devel- golia is changing and for the betopment. An agreement with ter,” Ballenger says. “Mongolian Mongolian International Uni- veterinarians have better trainversity allows Snider and his ing in the diagnosis and treatpartners to promote faculty and ment of diseases, and drugs are student exchanges within agri- newer and safer. Healthier aniculture programs of mutual mals provide more milk, more interest. wool, more cashmere and more

“The faculty exchange thus far has been one direction, here to there,” says Snider. “The student exchange has been the other direction — there to here. Programs are in place to do study abroad as well, but funding opportunities for this activity Mongolia. A typical training pro- are sparse.”

“Dr. Snider has presented case gram involves classroom work on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday studies with our large-animal and Friday. On Wednesday, par- veterinarians that have been very ticipants spend time at the large- informative and helpful,” says animal herd clinic, practicing Ballenger. what they have learned.”

“Because I am involved in both Her husband contributes to the program with information on running a business, she says.

Ballenger also works to provide distance-learning opportunities and technical expertise.

Oklahoma State is one of five U.S. schools that is part of an agreement with Mongolia V.E.T. Net and the Mongolian State University of Agriculture with its Mongolian Veterinary School.

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Ballenger says she can see the difference they have made already.

[agreements], I’m a common denominator to these activities, and we are starting to see some potential in integrating our activities where areas of mutual interest or complementary exist.

I present lectures within the Distance Learning Program,” adds Snider. “We focus more on the clinical training than on the research aspect of veterinary medicine to meet their immediate needs. These Mongolian students are working toward earning a master’s degree in veterinary medicine from MSUA.”

meat, which means herdsmen have more purchasing power.

They can buy tools, food, clothes and more. We’re making a difference in not only the lives of animals but in human lives by restoring their hope for a brighter future and making a difference in the country’s environment. It’s a wonderful, rewarding experience.”

The Ballengers’ children are grown now, and it doesn’t look like the empty nesters will be leaving Mongolia anytime soon.

Snider anticipates his work will continue as well.

“The memorandum of understanding between the Mongolian university and college allow us to continue to provide training, education and support to tomorrow’s Mongolian veterinarians,” says Snider. “It’s a win-win situation because we can benefit from what we learn and experience from each other.”

c o ll e g e r e s o u r c e s

Veterinary center first to offer VetMed Resource access for all alumni After a successful trial of access to VetMed Resource for recent graduates, the veterinary center is announcing a five-year pilot partnership with CABI Publishing to offer this resource to all veterinary alumni.

Student services office opens

VMR is a comprehensive online information product designed for veterinary practitioners, technicians and others working in the veterinary field. It contains all of CABI Publishing’s veterinary information and is intended to support continuing education.

The abstracts database contains more than 1.4 million citations and 40,000 full-text documents covering journals, book chapters, reports and proceedings from 1972 to the present. You can request items not included in VMR through interlibrary loan from your local library. VMR also includes full-text CAB Review articles and almost 700 datasheets related to veterinary medicine.

The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences has introduced an Office of Student Services to better serve students’ needs.

The office is in charge of handling certain essential functions pertaining to student services.

Student Services is staffed by Joyce Axton, Sherl Holesko, Michelle Kuehn, Anna Teague and Robin Wilson, with assistance from Lucy Kershaw on fourth-year students and Mary Kay Jennings on college ceremonies and special events.

“We have streamlined the process for students, which allowed for some cross-training so that we always have someone available to assist students,” says Dr. Chris Ross, associate dean for academic affairs. “We want to work smarter, not harder, and this team approach provides the best service for our students.”

Additional information about VMR is available at www.cabi.org/vetmedresource/.

The veterinary center provided 2012 alumni with log-in information in a graduation packet.

All other veterinary alumni may request log-in and password through a registration form at info. library.okstate.edu/vetalumni.

Training will be available at the center’s Annual Fall Veterinary Conference and at the OVMA Annual Conference. To schedule other in-person or virtual trainings, email lib-vet@okstate.edu or call 405-744-6655.

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mascot

There’s a new mascot in town There is a new mascot at OSU’s veterinary hospital — Sherbert, an Indian Runner duck. A Stillwater resident brought the orphaned duck to the hospital after Sherbert just wandered into the house with the family dog.

“It’s obvious that Sherbert was once someone’s pet as she is very friendly,” says Jill Murray, (registered veterinary technician, veterinary technician specialty in avian and exotic animals) in the hospital’s Avian, Exotic and Zoo Medicine Service.

“She loves people and will just follow you around, quacking her opinion as she goes.”

Indian Runner ducks are a domesticated waterfowl known for their upright stance, high egg production and varied colors. Sherbert is a pied color — fawn and white.

“Sherbert will join the other resident animals we have in the Avian, Exotic and Zoo Medicine Service,” says Cornelia Ketz-Riley, DVM, diplomate, American College of Zoological Medicine, assistant professor and head of the service. “We will use her to teach veterinary students the proper way to handle a duck and the wellness veterinary care ducks require.”

“We can also use her as a blood donor duck should another duck be admitted to the veterinary hospital that requires a blood transfusion,” adds Murray. “Ducks can also be used as blood donors for other birds if necessary. Birds can handle blood pretty much from any other bird. Of course it would be best to use a blood donor of the same avian species, but in an emergency, Sherbert can help out.”

According to Murray, ducks are a pretty common species for pets.

gary lawson / university marketing

Dr. Cornelia KetzRiley, head of the Avian, Exotic and Zoo Medicine Services, holds the latest addition to her service’s menagerie, Sherbert, an Indian Runner duck.

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“There is even a duck rescue here in Oklahoma.

Indian Runner ducks can’t fly. We take her for daily walks for exercise, let her swim and make sure she is around people,” says Murray. “She has a mind of her own. If she is off by herself, she doesn’t like it and starts quacking — very loudly.”

In addition to Sherbert, the Avian, Exotic and Zoo Medicine Service is home to Harley the redtail boa; Guiness, Tequila, Morgan and Corey, all guinea pigs; Ophelia the rat; Sophie the ferret; Brumby the sugar glider; and Speckles the cockatiel.

of mice and men

Accredited care Animal Resources works to maintain its badge of honor

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

The Department of Animal Resources is located on the west side of McElroy Hall.

Under the direction of Todd Jackson, DVM and diplomate of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, five staff members and four student workers keep the department running smoothly.

“The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is proud to be the first OSU-Stillwater college to obtain accreditation for its animal-care program,” Jackson says. “Under the leadership of my predecessor, Dr. Denver Marlow, the center applied for and received AAALAC International Accreditation in 2010. This covers the veterinary center’s entire research animal care program — Animal Resources, the Veterinary Medicine Ranch, the Equine Research Park and all individual research labs. This is huge in the research world and a real feather in our cap, as it lets others know what a high-quality program we run here.”

accreditation can be maintained only by upholding the high standards set by the AAALAC. Peer reviewers visit the institution every three years to evaluate the quality of animal care.

“Accreditation is also a recruiting tool,” says Jackson. “We can offer the best and brightest researchers and professors a high-quality animalcare program to support their research. Potential employees will know they are coming to work at an institution that has the utmost regard for research animals. Quality research animal care is critical to gathering quality scientific data from the animals.”

being and conducting good science.”

As part of the continuous improvement process, an internal OSU grant has been awarded to Animal Resources to upgrade the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Once installed, a computerized monitoring system will check air quality continuously.

“If a room becomes too warm or too cold for any reason, the system will sound alarms and notify staff to respond,” explains Jackson. “This is critiThe Association for Assessment and Accredita- cal for temperature-sensitive research animals that tion of Laboratory Animal Care is an international could become distressed within hours if heating nonprofit organization that promotes the humane or cooling systems fail. treatment of animals in science. In the scientific “Accreditation is a true commitment to humane community, AAALAC International accreditation animal care and use,” adds Jackson. “It shows the demonstrates that an institution is serious about university, the state and the world that OSU’s veterupholding high standards for animal care. inary center is serious about ensuring animal well-

In addition, the accreditation process helps promote continuous improvement. Once earned,

Animal Resources staff include Bruce Nance, facility manager; Janelle Ballard, supervisor; animal technicians Charles Jacques and Martha Bastion; Mendi Cronister, administrative assistant; and several student workers. Jackson’s team provides veterinary and husbandry care for dogs, cats, cattle, horses, white-tailed deer, rabbits, rats, mice, voles, birds and more.

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Adding to the medicine bag

by Derinda Blakeney

OSU veterinarians offer Chinese treatments in tough chronic cases

Veterinarian Dr. Reed Holyoak, a recognized board-certified specialist in theriogenology (animal reproduction medicine) at OSU’s veterinary hospital, was looking for ways to treat infertility cases that were unresponsive to mainstream veterinary therapies.

Reports of success in using acupuncture, first out of the Far East and Europe, then from Kentucky and Florida, led Holyoak to studying Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, which includes acupuncture. continues

Dr. Reed Holyoak uses acupuncture to treat a horse at OSU’s veterinary hospital.

Horses have hundreds of “spots” to use as acupuncture points.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

“Acupuncture is not painful, and most patients actually enjoy it, It is very safe, and side effects are rare,” she adds. “I do warn, however, that patients may experience muscular discomfort after acupuncture due to the physiologic changes that occur after “This course provided criti- needle placement. This discally evaluated, evidence-based comfort is short-lived and can instruction in acupuncture and be managed with appropriate related techniques, such as laser anti-inflammatory and/or pain therapy, massage and rehabilita- medications.” tion,” says Sypniewski, Patricia Sypniewski usually spends Henthorne Clinical Professor- about one hour with patients; ship in Small-Animal Medicine. her treatments combine acu“The curriculum concentrated puncture, massage and laser on the action of acupuncture on therapy. the nervous system and how it Both Holyoak and Sypniewski can be utilized to provide effec- agree that acupuncture is a comtive pain relief.” plement to Western medical

completed the Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians course in Colorado, a collaborative effort involving Colorado State University, the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association and the International Academy of Veterinary Medical Acupuncture.

While neither approach has Now certified in the field, Holyoak can use his expertise to all of the answers, it was these treat these tough infertility cases frustrating cases that spurred in horses, dogs, cows, and even Holyoak into five months of sore backs and hind legs in bulls. intensive study and training in “Acupuncture and associated order to offer an integrated Easttherapies are part of a new move- meets-West medical approach ment in human and veterinary in treating patients at the OSU medicine integrating the best of Center for Veterinary Health Scinontraditional healing therapies ences’ Boren Veterinary Medical into modern, Western medicine Teaching Hospital. to form a broader-based medical system,” says Holyoak.

We s t e r n m e d i c i n e o f t e n focuses on clinical symptoms with diagnosis based on the results of multiple tests, which is good for diagnosing and treating acute disease. However, chronic diseases, such as infertility, arthritis and others, can be nonresponsive to Western veterinary medical therapies.

Chinese approach Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine take a wholeanimal approach, utilizing a comprehensive hands-on physical exam, considering overall balances and imbalances, excesses and deficiencies in diagnosing and treating disease.

“The focus is on correcting what is out of balance in affecting a cure. It is the nonresponsive cases that are the most frustrating for all of us,” adds Holyoak.

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“It has been a mind-opening experience and a very demanding course of study,” says Holyoak, who already held MS, DVM and Ph.D. degrees. “In addition to teaching future veterinarians as students here at OSU, I look forward to offering this new approach in working with veterinary practitioners, pet owners and livestock producers in the state of Oklahoma and surrounding areas. These are part of the wonders of my life.

Hours of studying Sypniewski spent 140 hours completing class work and another 200 hours studying outside the classroom.

“Acupuncture is an emerging modality in veterinary medicine that allows for a complement to Western therapies for the treatment of numerous conditions including acute and chronic pain,” says Sypniewski. “There are many local and systemic effects that occur after a sterile “We had two infertile client needle is placed in an acupuncmares at the Veterinary Medture point. Increased circulaicine Ranch, where we handle tion locally around the needle our theriogenology cases,” recalls is noted almost immediately.

Holyoak. “We added acupuncStress is reduced by a secondary ture, and we were able to clear release of ‘feel good’ hormones the infection in the reproduc(endorphins from the body’s own tive track and extract embryos pharmacy, if you will) and the for impregnation, and now we parasympathetic nervous syshave two expectant mares.” tem is activated, allowing the A n o t h e r v e t e r i n a r i a n a t normalization of organ function.”

OSU has also added acupuncSypniewski explains that musture to her repertoire. In May cular trigger points relax and 2012, Lara Sypniewski, DVM, muscular restriction is reduced. community practice veterinarThe brain and spinal cord are ian at the small-animal clinic, also affected by the endorphins released during needling, modulating the body’s response to pain.

therapies; it is an option and not the only treatment to consider when dealing with disease and chronic pain cases. There are many patients that will benefit from this modality, they say.

Only in the United States has modern medicine completely replaced older forms of medicine. The World Health Organization recently indicated that 80 percent of the world’s population relies on herbal medications as part of their primary health care. The American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes acupuncture as an alternative form of veterinary medicine, and it falls under the Oklahoma Veterinar y Practice Act as well. In 1997, the National Institutes of Health found sufficient evidence of acupuncture’s value to expand its use into conventional medicine and to encourage further studies of its physiology and clinical value.

Dr. Lara Sypniewski treats 13-year-old Cashew’s elbow arthritis with acupuncture. The arthritis causes the terrier mix to favor his leg when he walks, which results in muscle tension and knots along his shoulders and back.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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Photo provided

Dr. Reed Holyoak (from left), Juli Constantine, Brittany Koether, Dr. Huisheng Xie, Hannah Wadsworth and Dr. Taylor Tillery visit China for the acupuncture course.

Learning in the homeland In May 2012, Dr. Reed Holyoak accompanied Dr. Taylor Tillery (Class of 2012) and three veterinary students to China to participate in a veterinary acupuncture introduction course organized by China Southwest University and Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine.

Holyoak was one of three certified acupuncturists who lectured and instructed at the twoday hands-on laboratories. Dr. Husisheng Xie from the University of Florida and two instructors from the Southwest University College of Veterinary Medicine also provided lectures and demonstrations.

A total of 12 participated in the four-day course with students representing Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University, Washington State University and the country of Australia.

“The trip was amazing,” says Hannah Wadsworth, Class of 2013. “I enjoyed learning about acupuncture and seeing how the Chinese people live. It’s humbling to visit a third-world country and realize how blessed I really am.”

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Lectures focused on traditional Chinese medicine and traditional Chinese veterinary medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine was established approximately 3,000 years ago. Its fundamentals are still in use today, including the five elements and eight principles used to diagnose and treat patients with acupuncture.

Attendees learned the commonly used acupoints on dogs and horses, including the location of approximately 100 acupuncture points along the 12 meridians.

“I really enjoyed the trip to China,” says Brittany Koether, Class of 2015. “We learned an immense amount about acupuncture, herbs and the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. We were welcomed with open arms and toured the veterinary facilities and the medical hospital, where we saw acupuncture.”

r e a l -t i m e t e s t i n g

Lab gives diagnoses a step up The Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory provides services across the country. The Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory has offered bacteriology and virology testing since the OADDL expanded its facility in 2008.

Molecular Diagnostics utilizes a testing method known as polymerase chain reaction to quickly and efficiently analyze a variety of veterinary samples.

In the 1980s, a traditional or gel-based PCR became one of the most powerful tools in veterinary diagnostics. This process involved extracting DNA or RNA from various sample types — blood, tissue, swabs, feces, etc.

To identify a specific disease agent, lab technicians would then run gels using ethidium bromine, which is toxic.

Today, a process known as real-time PCR improves the process. A fluorescent probe is placed into the sample during the test, making the reaction visible as it occurs. Lab technicians can see if and when a certain product is being made.

“The real-time PCR reduces the time it takes to run the test,” explains Emily Cooper, quality manager and molecular assay developer at OADDL. “It reduces the chances of cross-contamination, and it lessens the risk of chemical exposure to the operator.”

The virology section offers the following molecular tests: Avian influenza

Bluetongue virus Bovine coronavirus Canine adenovirus I & II Canine distemper virus Canine parvovirus Epizootic hemorrhagic Molecular biology runs the disease and bluetongue following bacteriology tests: Equine herpesvirus 1 & 4 Tritrichomonas foetus Equine herpesvirus 2 Johnes disease Equine influenza Anaplasma marginale General herpesvirus Clostridium perfringens

Infectious bovine toxin typing rhinotracheitis Mycoplasma bovis Influenza A 16S rDNA sequencing Malignant cattarrhal fever (helps identify difficult-to Porcine reproductive and differentiate bacteria) respiratory syndrome The lab is in the process of val

Sequencing and idating a PCR for Leptospira spp sequence analysis on urine and kidney, which will then also be available.

Established in 1976, the OADDL is a full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory. It is fully accredited by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians and a member of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network.

OADDL conducts surveillance testing on avian influenza, swine influenza, exotic Newcastle disease virus and classical swine fever.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

The Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory conducts a variety of tests.

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for the birds

An exotic reality OSU vet tech blazes trail with passion for unusual animals

Jill Murray, RVT, VTS, grew up in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.

She spent her summers volunteering at the local human society. Her career in veterinary medicine began at age 16 with her first job at the Guelph Humane Society. That led her to a veterinary assistant position in a local veterinary hospital, where she decided to further pursue her career in veterinary medicine.

“I have always loved animals,” says Murray. “I find the human animal bond interesting and decided the best way to help animal owners and their pets was through education, listening and health care.”

Murray graduated from the Veterinary Technician Program at Seneca College in Ontario, Canada, in April 2005. By June 2005, she had passed the exam to become a registered veterinary technician through the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians.

She joined OSU’s Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in 2008 and works in the hospital’s Avian, Exotic and Zoo Medicine Service. In 2012, Murray added one more accolade to her career: She is the first RVT to successfully complete the extensive application and exam process to become a veterinary technician specialist in exotic companion animals.

“Achieving my VTS is very exciting and humbling with a huge sense of relief from preparing and studying,” she says.

“Having my VTS will open up more teaching and learning opportunities.”

Murray spent the last four years working with exotic pets in OSU’s veterinary hospital followed by a yearlong application process.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

While Jill Murray enjoys the variety of species treated in the Avian, Exotics and Zoo Medicine Service, her favorite is pet birds.

She shares her home with two birds — Angel, a Moluccan cockatoo, and Raine, a Solomon Island Eclectus parrot.

“I dove into studying. The specialty designation. And she species list was extensive and will have plenty of opportuni“I had to perform and assist included amphibians, birds, ties to learn at OSU’s veterinary with a variety of advanced skills exotic pet mammals, reptiles hospital. and procedures in exotic species, and wildlife.”

“Every day is different. Somedocumenting my experiences times your patient will walk in, Even though Murray has and involvement in the nursing other times it will fly or slither achieved this certified status, “I was the unique student in care of animals seen at the vetshe says.

“On some occasions, in,” she knows there is more to learn. my veterinary technician pro- erinary hospital. I also had to we see species from local zoos “My learning has only begun. gram,” says Murray. “While most prepare multiple case reports or private collections.

I never The information we have on students wanted to work with showing my understanding, critwould have thought as a veterexotic pets is ever growing and dogs, cats and horses, I dreamed ical thinking and knowledge of inary technician that seeing a changing.” of working with exotic animals. the various species and disease lion, cougar or monkey would Murray serves on the AcadDue to the limited special spe- processes.” be part of everyday life — and it cies training veterinary techOnce Murray’s application emy of Veterinary Technicians is.

I hope to be able to share my nicians receive as part of the was accepted, she had only four in Clinical Practice committee love of exotic species with other focused on advancing the vetercurriculum, I knew that I had months to study for the exam. veterinary technicians.” inary technician profession and much work ahead of me to make — Derinda Blakeney that dream a reality.”

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s av e d b y t h e l i g h t

Nursing a foal back to health

by Derinda Blakeney

Laser therapy helps newborn colt overcome leg injury

“In an unattended delivery, it’s hard to say what happened,” says Todd Holbrook, DVM, diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, The foal, the first from a Large Animal and the Ameri4-year-old mare, was unable can College of Veterinary Sports to nurse, so he was missing the Medicine and Rehabilitation as important antibodies in his well as the equine section chief mother’s colostrum. His owner, at OSU’s Center for Veterinary a small-animal veterinarian Health Sciences. “The foal was from Wichita, Kan., knew the less than 6 hours old, and he foal needed help when he found had dramatic swelling in his it. Having referred many clients upper left hind leg. He probably to OSU’s veterinary center, he injured the leg during delivery.” didn’t hesitate to drive almost 1½ hours to OSU’s large-animal clinic.

OSU veterinarians don’t know exactly what happened to a young Kansas foal who couldn’t stand up after his birth, but they found a way to help him.

Holbrook determined that the colt ruptured his gastrocnemius muscle in his upper left back leg, equivalent to the calf muscle in a person. After applying a supportive splint on the limb, Holbrook and his team decided to incorporate laser therapy for the first time to help heal the colt’s muscular injury.

“The foal was treated using a low-level laser therapy (LLLT) device, which theoretically enhances healing, including with tendons and skin wounds,” explains Kenneth Bartels, DVM, McCasland Foundation continues

The foal’s mother tries to nose in to see what’s happening to her baby as registered veterinary technician Judy Branson (from left) treats it while fourth-year veterinary student Matt Kren, Dr. Todd Holbrook and Sabari Ford (hidden) hold it.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Laser Surgery Professor and Kerr Chair for Biophotonics.

“LLLT is also used to alleviate pain due to musculoskeletal problems caused by degenerative osteoarthritis. LLLT is used in both human and veterinary medicine, but its objective efficacy or benefit is still being investigated. Our laser lab has been working with a number of manufacturers to provide objective results for research as well as clinical applications for both large and small animals.

This therapy is used frequently in rehabilitative medicine within the center’s small-animal veterinary hospital.”

The laser treatment is applied for 10 minutes.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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The foal’s owner reported that the foal was able to walk without the splint approximately 2½ weeks after discharge. The following week, the foal returned for an ultrasound examination to determine how the healing had progressed.

“I am very pleased with the foal’s progress,” says Holbrook.

“He still has a mildly abnormal gait, and fragments of bone that were distracted from the aspect of the leg where the gastrocnemius originates are still present.”

The colt’s owner also believes the healing process has gone very well. He uses laser therapy Ho l b r o o k a n d a s s i s t i n g often in his small-animal pracfour th-year ve terinar y stu- tice and looks forward to watchdents, Matt Kren and Sabari ing his foal continue to grow Ford, held the foal while treat- with no lasting effects from the ment was administered by Judy early injury.

Branson. Branson, a registered Two months passed, and the veterinary technician, received foal returned to OSU for one additional training to become final checkup. licensed to properly operate “ T he injur y continues to laser equipment for veterinary improve radiographically,” says applications. She treated the foal Holbrook. “His exercise has been for 10 minutes each day. gradually increased so that he is “After several days of laser now ready to turn out to pasture. treatment, the swelling had gone While splint immobilization was down considerably,” reports Hol- the primary treatment modality, brook. “This is an uncommon the laser therapy appeared to injury in foals. We put a splint rapidly reduce the fluid accumuon the foal’s leg to provide sup- lation (edema and hemorrhage) port so he could stand and nurse. early in the treatment of this By day 12, we were able to send case, and we are very satisfied him home with a splint and wrap with the results.” on his leg.”

s ucc e s s s t o r y

Rescuing a rescuer A month before Joplin’s devastation, OSU vets bring a search dog back from the brink of death OSU had the opportunity to treat a dog with a huge heart and an amazing drive to work. Meet Lily, a 4-yearold Weimaraner owned by Tara Prosser of Joplin, Mo. Lily has been with the Prosser family since she was 10 weeks old. Prosser trained her as a search-and-rescue dog, and the duo are members of PAWS Search Dog Alliance and Newton County Rescue and Recovery in Joplin. Lily was nominated for the 2012 Hero Dog Awards by the American Humane Association and placed third in the search and rescue category, competing against 12 other dogs.

“What I like most about training these dogs is the sense of being one with your dog,” explains Prosser.

“You move, your dog moves.

Being able to save a life with the help of your dog is just an amazing feeling.” continues

photos Courtesy / Tara Prosser

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s ucc e s s s t o r y

“ T h e r e i s n ot a day t h at g o e s by t h at I a m n ot t h a n kful f o r Dr. Cunningham a n d t h e s ta ff at OS U ’ s v e t e r i n a ry h o s p i ta l .”

Lily searches destroyed homes and businesses after the 2011 tornado that hit her hometown of Joplin, Mo. A month earlier, she had been near death at OSU’s veterinary hospital.

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In March 2011, Lily developed “Upon arrival, we treated Lily profound swelling of the lymph for pain and fever,” recalls Cunnodes under her chin and the tis- ningham. “Then we ran several sues around her face. tests on her to rule out possi“Our veterinarian in Neosho, ble causes. She had a severe Mo., treated Lily, but the lymph decrease in her platelet count, nodes in her neck remained with evidence of active bleedswollen even after her facial ing. Coagulation profiles were swelling was resolved. After normal, infectious disease testthree weeks, our veterinarian ing came back negative, fungal did a biopsy, which came back disease tests were unremarkable, and cytology of multiple organs unremarkable.”

A week later, the two were at showed no evidence of organa search team training, when isms or cancer. Cultures were Prosser noticed Lily’s left eye performed and came back negative. We knew she had a huge was irritated. exposure risk with her job. We “I checked it, but didn’t really felt it had to be set off by somesee anything,” Prosser rememthing she was exposed to; we bers. “Later that evening, she simply could not find the culprit.” stopped eating and seemed “When the test results started lethargic, acting as if she were coming in, Dr. Cunningham said in pain. I checked her every the possibility of her regainhour during the night, and ing sight in the affected eye was that’s when I noticed her eye very grave and if it was painful, it had hemorrhaged, was swollen might need to be removed,” says and bulging. She had a fever and couldn’t walk without bumping Prosser. “Every test for tick diseases came back negative. Lily’s into walls.” platelet count dropped very low, As soon as her veterinarand she showed signs of internal ian opened the next morning, bleeding. Bruises were starting Prosser had Lily in his office. to show on her abdomen. That “He took one look at her and was my lowest point — I thought said, ‘We need to get her on the I was losing my partner.” road to Stillwater.’ We got in the Prosser remembers lying in car and left. I didn’t bring anybed at her hotel, wondering thing with me — just Lily and a when the phone would ring to couple of teammates who came tell her Lily had bled out and to support me. was gone.

“It was our first visit to OSU’s “The phone didn’t ring,” Prosser ve terinar y hospital. I was says. “In the morning, we talked impressed; the doctors were about removing Lily’s eye to help listening to me, and everyone determine the diagnosis. With understood how important it Lily’s platelet count so low, Dr. was to help this sick dog. I knew Cunningham did not want to Lily was in good hands.” do any invasive procedures that Dr. Lauren Cunningham, might cause Lily to bleed.” a small-animal internal medicine resident, was assigned to Lily’s case.

Cunningham started Lily on prednisone, and within days her platelet count was climbing. By the end of the week, Lily was well enough to go home.

Although the inciting cause of her immune mediated disease remains unknown, Lily responded well to treatment and has never looked back.

Early the next morning, Prosser and Lily searched a leveled department store, grocery store and a furniture store. It was on to residences the next day.

Lily try.

“There is not a day that goes by that I am not thankful for Dr. Cunningham and the staff at OSU’s veterinary hospital,” she says. “Lily is more than my partner — she is a family member, and I would have been lost without her. One day I will lose her, and it won’t be easy. But because of Dr. Cunningham and everyone else who had a hand in her care, I still have Lily with me today, and she has many more years of bringing closure to families and saving lives.”

“We cleared so many that we lost count. Devastation was everywhere, but Lily just kept working,” Prosser recalls. “She stepped on several nails from A little over a year ago, Prosser all the roof shingles; she never acquired another Weimaraner — whimpered and just kept workDaisey, who is now 2 years old. ing. Every night, Lily would come home and play in our back“A month after Lily’s release, I yard like nothing extraordinary planned on taking Daisey to a had happened.

But as soon as I training seminar in Arkansas. put my boots on the next mornI didn’t want to leave Lily with ing, she was ready to go again. someone knowing she might You would never have known crash again, so I brought her that a month before she was along,” says Prosser. “I did not close to dying.” intend on working with her, but she had other ideas.”

Happily, Prosser reports that According to Prosser, Lily at a regular checkup in Novembarked and carried on while ber 2011, Lily’s veterinarian said Daisey was working. The train- that she is probably regaining ers there knew about Lily’s situ- vision in the eye that was almost ation and convinced Tara to let removed.

“So with fear in my heart, I took Lily out, and she blew me away with her energy and her drive to work! Lily is a human remains detection dog. One of the exercises was a sectioned-off field where a single baby tooth was planted. The trainers told us to find it, and Lily did.”

On the way back to Joplin that evening, Prosser learned that their city had just been hit by an EF5 tornado.

“We were exhausted, and we weren’t sure what we would be driving into,” remembers Prosser.

“It was about 10 p.m. when we arrived. My husband, Jeff, who is a paramedic for Newton County Ambulance, left immediately to join his crew. I started making plans for the K9 team.”

— Derinda Blakeney

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hot wheels

Missy the Sheltie gets around her home nicely with her cart.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Wheeling around Innovative thinking gives dog a new way to roam

“We tried physical therapy and Missy is a 14-year-old Sheltie dog owned by Marie Basler leg braces. The therapy helped of Stillwater. Missy suffers from loosen her joints a bit, but she severe arthritis in all of her limbs. never could get used to the “When Missy was about 5 years braces,” says Basler. “Missy is a old, she hurt her right front leg,” spunky little dog and managed explains Basler. “She spent three to adapt to walking on her hocks.” weeks with her leg in a cast until the tendon healed. After that, she would sometimes limp a little on that leg. About six years ago, she started to go lame in her back legs. Gradually, she went down on her hocks in the back.”

Missy’s veterinarian referred Basler to OSU’s veterinary hospital. An OSU Student Union employee, Basler knew that the veterinary hospital was open to the public and had brought dogs in for treatment before.

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Sadly, Basler says that about three years ago, Missy’s right front leg started to turn inward and within a year, Missy gradually began to go down on her front legs as well.

“Of course, we were giving her medicine to help with the joint pain. Then in April 2011, Missy developed an abrasion on her right front leg that bled and oozed liquid similar to a burst blister,” adds Basler.

A trip to the veterinary hospital resulted in Dr. Lara Sypniewski, community practice veterinarian, treating Missy for infection for the next three weeks before the spot healed.

quickly, Basler made the tough decision to euthanize him. Having a sick pet in the hospital is a significant emotional, financial and time investment for even the most dedicated owner.

“Taking that into considerIn fall 2011, Missy developed another sore on the same spot — ation along with Missy’s age and so back to the veterinary hospi- the cost of the surgery, I decided against surgery for Missy,” says tal went Basler and Missy.

Basler.

“I asked Dr. Sypniewski “I was told that Missy could if there were other treatment have surgery on both front legs options to help heal the sore.” to straighten them and possibly “We wanted to help Missy. It help her get back up on her feet,” was time to think outside the says Basler.

Unfortunately, the timing for box,” says Sypniewski. “Laura Missy’s treatment could not have Moorer, certified canine rehabilbeen worse. Basler’s other dog, itation practitioner on staff, sugAl, was hospitalized for a stroke- gested that a cart might help. like condition and kidney failure. Missy actually walked in it the first As Al’s condition deteriorated time we sat her in it.”

“I encourage people to never give up on a dog and look for as many options as you can find to help them. I think we have some pretty amazing veterinarians, students and staff at the veterinary college who are very creative “Missy still has a little trouble thinkers and patient with owners. going in a straight line because Missy and I are very fortunate she favors her right front leg,” they are on our side.”

— Derinda Blakeney says Basler. “It has helped her foot to heal, and most of the time Missy is able to go around the house all by herself — even with her crippled legs.

Moorer photographed Missy’s little legs and took lots of measurements before ordering the cart. When the custom cart arrived from Doggon’ Wheels, Moorer put it together and fit it to Missy.

Veterinarian Dr. Lara Sypniewski (from left), certified canine rehabilitation practitioner Laura Moorer and owner Marie Basler pose with Missy and her custom cart. Moorer came up with the idea of a cart for the arthritis-stricken dog.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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Honors

“It gives people hope that they can make a decision and change the course of their life if they want to, They don’t have to get stuck. They’re not as old as they think.”

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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The circuitous route Regents Distinguished Teacher spent 15 years as a vet tech before going back to school to pursue her dream by matt elliott

The winner of 2011’s Regents DisIn 1991, Allison left a 480-acre tinguished Teaching award got a late ranch, moved into a house trailer and start on her teaching career, but she started school at Colorado State. She wouldn’t have it any other way. had to take undergraduate classes to Dr. Robin Allison, a veterinary get some of the necessary prerequipathologist, spent 15 years as a certi- site courses out of the way, and those fied veterinary technician working for made her feel awkward about her age. practices in Ohio, Illinois, Colorado and Missouri. Although she found that career rewarding, she was always drawn to the lab. Realizing her innate talent and passion, her supervisors let her go beyond her position’s requirements and analyze samples.

She calls it the hardest thing she’s ever done. Still, she focused and made it to veterinary school, where she excelled, working in Thrall’s lab at CSU. Following veterinary school, she did a residency in clinical pathology there and earned a doctoral degree in veterinary pathology.

“That’s what I loved doing as a technician,” Allison says. “I could take a Allison finished veterinary school sample into my little closet of a lab and in 1996 and received her doctoral come out and say, ‘I know the answer. degree in 2002, both from Colorado I have the information that’s going to State University in Fort Collins. She make a difference in the way we treat was studying feline AIDS until she this patient.’ That’s just really super came to OSU in 2004. Known prirewarding.” marily as a researcher at the time, Allison knew that was the career she flourished in her new career at for her after attending a conference OSU, excelling as a teacher as well at Colorado State University. She as a scientist. attended a talk by the woman who would later become her mentor, noted Ross University clinical pathologist Dr. Mary Anna Thrall, and decided to go back to school, get her DVM and become a clinical pathologist. But there was one problem.

Dr. Robin Allison always loved working in a lab, but she had to overcome her age concerns to follow her passion.

“My major problem at the time was that I was 36, and I thought I was too old,” Allison says. “While on the phone with my mom, complaining about my life, I said, ‘Even if I could get into vet school, I’d be over 40 by the time I finished.’ She started laughing. I got bent out of shape. She said, ‘I’ve got news for you, Robin. You’re going to be over 40 anyway.’ I said, ‘Huh. Good point.’”

Her enthusiasm for her work grew the more she did. That sense of wonder drives her today. It’s a big part of why she won the veterinary college’s top teaching award, ranking her among the best instructors to ever teach there, a noteworthy accomplishment considering the college’s history of strong instructors. She especially enjoys working with nontraditional students.

“Nothing makes me happier than inspiring a student whom might have otherwise never thought about clinical pathology as a career,” Allison says.

“There are more and more older students or nontraditional students coming to veterinary school, and I feel a certain affinity with them because I know how hard it is to make that change in your life.”

Dr. Catherine Fischer, a third-year clinical pathology student at the University of Guelph in Canada, met Allison when she took a class Allison was teaching at Ross University a few years ago in St. Kitts. She had an obvious love for her work that was infectious, Fischer says, as well as the ability to make difficult subjects such as clinical biochemistry seem simple.

Later, the two became friends, and Allison inspired Fischer to study clinical pathology, a career change that she, like Allison before her, made in her 30s.

“She has definitely been an inspiration all along as one of my mentors and one of my idols,” Fischer says.

“She is a brilliant teacher. She impresses people with a love of her subject as well as explaining things so simply and so clearly that even very complicated subjects seem very easy to grasp.”

Allison is board certified through the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. At OSU, she focuses on diagnostic pathology including infectious and neoplastic diseases of the blood. In addition to her noted career as an instructor, Allison’s work has appeared in such publications as Veterinary Clinical Pathology, the Merck Veterinary Manual, Schalm’s Veterinary Hematology and the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

She loves telling her story to other nontraditional veterinary students like she once was.

“It gives people hope that they can make a decision and change the course of their life if they want to,” Allison says.

“They don’t have to get stuck. They’re not as old as they think.”

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Hono or r ss

Genesee Photo Systems

Loving what you do

by Derinda Blakeney

Three-time Pfizer Distinguished Teacher brings passion for veterinary work to class (and a lesson or two from the Boss, too)

He has received the Pfizer D i s t i n g u i s h e d Te a c h e r Award three times (1997, 2008, and 2012) and the Regents Distinguished Teaching Award twice (1998 and 2005).

Listening to him talk about why he chose veterinary medicine and ultimately teaching, it’s easy to understand why veterinary pathobiology professor Dr. Jim Meinkoth earned these awards.

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“I worked for a veterinarian all through high school and what he was doing just didn’t seem like work. It was fun, interesting and rewarding. I couldn’t believe you get paid for doing that. The old saying — ‘ Find something you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life’ — comes to mind.”

After veterinary school, Dr. Meinkoth worked for a year in private practice and discovered that he preferred pathology.

“I love clinical pathology, especially cytology (the study of cells). Dr. Robin Allison and I remark to each other often that it is amazing we get paid for reading slides. It is so cool. I love interacting with the clinicians and outside veterinarians about the cases.”

And he does so much more than just read slides.

“You read slides on clinical cases, then you focus on teaching classes, then you might spend time writing an article or preparing for a continuing education presentation. By the time you rotate back to clinical duty, it seems fresh again. Teaching students is much the same. You may teach the same thing year after year but it is new to them, and their excitement makes it new for you as well. You watch someone else get excited about something you have seen 100 times or more, and it makes you realize how special and fun it is, just like it was for you the first time. It is much like having children and watching them discover things in the world for the first time.

or a specialist and they say they remember me from veterinary school or mention something specific they learned that came in useful. That is great.”

“Two, it gives me something personal to relate to my students. I like to talk about and share funny stories about personal interests in class.”

Meinkoth has seen 61 Springsteen concerts so far and has tickets for three more in August 2012, including one in Massachusetts with his sister.

Meinkoth joins two former faculty members as three-time recipients of the Pfizer Distinguished Teacher Award — Dr. Rebecca Morton (OSU ’72) and Dr. Roger Panciera (OSU ’53).

In fact, every class starts with “My goal is to die having seen a “thought of the day” when more Bruce shows than the numMeinkoth shares something ber of years I have lived. Since I from a Springsteen concert, intend to live for a while longer, I funny things with his family or plan to see as many concerts as I just silly things he has done. can. My wife (Katrina Meinkoth, “Talk about good company! I “I think that the students like DVM, OSU ’88) is very toleram honored. It really feels good to get to know a little about the ant of my fanaticism, and I am to think that the students appre- person standing up in front of extremely grateful for that. She ciate what you do. I, like a lot of them droning on and making comes with me to several of the faculty members at the veter- them study all night. I know I shows, but she has more normal inary center, really put a lot of like it when they tell me things limits. My son went to his first couple shows and became a bit time and effort into teaching. It about them.” is nice to know that it is someMeinkoth’s third reason for infected, so I’m a proud papa!” what effective and that the stu- liking Bruce Springsteen is that Meinkoth earned his DVM dents are getting something out he feels Springsteen is a role degree in 1985 and a master’s of it. It is great to work at a vet- model for teaching or anything degree in 1988 from Oklahoma erinary college that values and one does.

State University. In 1993, he “Also, with academia (rather rewards teaching by their facearned a Ph.D. in veterinary sci“He puts absolutely everything than a private diagnostic lab) ulty. I think the veterinary cen- he has into each show — that ences from Washington State you have the freedom to explore ter administration should get is why people go back over and University College of Veterithings, research interesting kudos for that.” over and over. I have heard him nary Medicine, and in 1994, cases and go a bit further to find While teaching and clinical say in interviews something to he became a diplomate of the the answers. What is really fun pathology occupy most of his the effect that while he may per- American College of Veterinary is when you find something new time, Meinkoth is also a huge form 100 shows a year, for the Pathologists — Clinical Patholthat has not been noticed before.” Bruce Springsteen fan. person in the audience, it might ogy. He continues to publish Meinkoth has lots of memo“The Springsteen fanaticism is be the only show they will ever chapters in cytology textbooks, ries from his 20 years of teaching something that is fun but is also see, so he performs like it is the collaborates with residents on at OSU’s College of Veterinary beneficial in many ways. One, last show he will ever do. That clinical case reports and works Medicine. my sister is a big fan, and we kind of intensity would be a good on Cytauxzoon felis infection “What stands out is when I see go to shows together. She lives attitude for whatever you do for with Drs. Mason Reichard and Theresa Rizzi. someone who was a student a in Cape Cod, Mass., and it has a living.” long time ago and has gone on really helped us keep in touch to become a good practitioner over the years.

Dr. Jim Meinkoth (left) receives the Pfizer Distinguished Teacher Award from Dr. Rocky Bigbie.

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honors

Research award goes to Little

by matt elliott

Professor also pushes parasitology to ‘diplomate status’

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Dr. Jerry Quinlan (left), veterinary academic liaison for Pfizer Animal Health, and OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Dean Jean Sander (right) award Dr. Susan Little the 2012 Pfizer Animal Health Award for Research Excellence.

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A lauded Center for Veterinary Health Sciences researcher won 2012’s Pfizer Animal Health Award for Research Excellence last May. Dr. Susan Little, a Regents professor and past winner of the college’s Distinguished Teaching Award, was honored for her work studying parasites such as ticks and the diseases they carry.

“I just feel so lucky to be at Oklahoma State,” says Little, describing her reaction to winning the award. “ It’s so rare when you find the right place to be at the right time with the right people. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

says. “We rely on these treatments and tests to allow veterinarians to keep pets healthy. It is really important for parasitology researchers to be part of that effort.”

That work takes place inside the nation’s only facility of its kind, the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology, which she established in 2008.

But her accomplishments aren’t limited to research alone.

In 2012, she helped push her discipline, veterinary parasitology, to “diplomate status.”

That’s similar to board certification in human medical specialties, she says.

Since coming to OSU in 2005, Little has made her name studying the organisms that cause ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

She has become one of the nation’s leading such scientists, especially in her understanding of what diseases affect what regions most in the United States and how our changing climate affects parasites.

Establishing the diplomate program, which includes a rigorous candidate exam and approval process, could have meant that people who lack DVMs would be excluded from practicing the discipline in the future. That was a major concern of everyone involved, because many very gifted scientists who aren’t vets have made incredibly important contributions to the field, she says.

“Veterinary parasitology is really critical to practicing veterinary medicine. Veterinarians spend a large amount of their professional time combating parasitic diseases, whether it’s fleas, ticks, heartworms, intestinal parasites, zoonotic infections, protozoal infections — it is a true clinical specialty. It just “There was a really valid con- had never been formally recogcern about excluding people nized that way.” that are not veterinarians from Little is the Krull-Ewing the practice of veterinary par- Endowed Chair in Veterinary asitology,” Little says. “But the Parasitology and director of the opposite response, doing noth- National Center for Veterinary ing, means that anyone can Parasitology. Author of more call themselves a parasitologist than 100 publications, her work because we had not defined the has been funded by the National profession within veterinary Institutes of Health, Bayer Animedicine. Anyone working with mal Health, Swiss pharmaceutipatients or in research could say cal company Novartis and Pfizer.

‘I’m a parasitologist.’”

She has served as president of

“Board certification is making sure that when that service is provided, it’s done very well,” she says. “That’s why, when you have heart problems, for example, you want to go to a boarded cardiologist. You don’t go to a Over time, she says, the vetgeneralist, you want a specialist. erinary parasitology commuThe same is true for clinical parnity recognized the importance asitology challenges.” of setting up the subspecialty.

The process began about four “We identified a route of honoryears ago. At that time, anyLately, she’s added a new one within veterinary medicine ary diplomate status to include direction with her participation could refer to themselves as a leading scientists who do not in research into heartworms, parasitologist. Her group filed a hold the DVM degree, and today, common tests to detect them boatload of paperwork with the the momentum is very supportive and the community has come and the drugs that fight them.

American Board of Veterinary together over it,” she says.

“There is growing interest in Specialties and the American The first candidates will test making sure the preventives Veterinary Medical Associafor the diploma in December remain as effective as we need tion, after which came a series 2012.

Little also serves on the them to be, and in understand- of public comment periods and committee making the exam ing how the tests actually per- petitions regarding the estabthey’ll take. form in our patients,” Little lishment of the specialty.

It was a tough sell for some, she says.

Achieving the diplomate status for her discipline is one of the high points in her career.

the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists, on the editorial boards of Veterinary Parasitology, Veterinary Therapeutics, and the Journal of Wildlife Diseases, and the executive board of the Companion Animal Parasite Council for Veterinary and Medical Professionals.

Little won the college’s Pfizer Distinguished Teaching Award in 2010. Before starting in Stillwater in 2005, she spent nearly 10 years teaching at the University of Georgia in Athens, where she obtained her doctoral degree in parasitology. Her veterinary medicine degree is from Virginia Tech.

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Honors

Top vet student looking forward to caring for small animals after her stint at aquarium

Dogs and cats can stink. But even at their worst they smell way better than sharks. Penny Regier knows.

It was also extra special because she had to leave her home in Tulsa and her husband during the week “It’s just a rotten smell,” she says. while she attended class. She also “I can’t even think of a word for it had to leave behind the luxury of a other than sour. They’re just sour.” full-time job and teach herself how Regier learned that as the biol- to be a student again.

“I hadn’t had to study for almost ogist in charge of the sharks at four years, so it was a big change,” the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks.

Regier says. “And I missed makOften, she’d spend her days in the ing money.” tank with the sharks, examining them. She liked her job, and even Regier, 28, came back to school though you can’t really smell them in 2009, and after some early underwater, the 2005 graduate of bumps in the road, she found her OSU had had her fill of sharks, their groove, excelling in both the classteeth and their sandpaper skin room and the lab. after three years at the aquarium.

The first three years she says

Gennessee photo

Out of the shark tank

Penny Regier (left) receives the Dean Harry Orr Award, the veterinary college’s third-year academic award, from Dean Jean Sander.

In the future, she hopes to land a small-animal surgery internship and residency. She has been interested in the specialty ever since she took in two dogs that have had more than their share.

“These were my ‘free’ puppies that I rescued,” she says. “One of them had hip dysplasia in both hips, and the other tore both of his ACLs — part of the joys of owning dogs. I think that’s probably what started this whole thing.”

Eventually, she’d like to join a practice somewhere in the United States as a small-animal surgeon.

She’s not ruling out starting her She decided to go back to school were all about reading and study- own practice in the future, but she and do what she had wanted to do ing. This past year has been her wants to avoid the added stress of since she was a kid: become a vet- favorite, she says. She’s been apply- starting her own business for now. erinarian. Now, she’s a fourth-year ing what she’s learned in her earlier The Dean Harry Orr Award feastudent about to finish her degree courses while she does her rota- tures a $2,500 scholarship and is and winner of the Dean Harry Orr tions inside OSU’s Boren Veteri- named for the second dean of the Award, the college’s third-year aca- nary Medical Teaching Hospital.

College of Veterinary Medicine. Orr demic award. The award was extra “Now it’s just hands-on experience led the college from 1953 until his special for Regier. and clinical experience,” she says. death in 1956.

“It just really meant a lot that I “We’re actually getting to work with made it this far while being able to and interact with animals and apply do what I want to do,” she says. “It everything we’ve learned.” was great.”

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— Matt Elliott

Roberson receives professional award Each year, the American Indian Science and Engineering Society recognizes Native Americans who have excelled in their respective fields and who have been involved with the Native community. In 2011, AISES presented Dr. Jerry Roberson with the Professional of the Year award.

Phil Snow / University of Tennessee

Roberson is committed to helping Native students succeed. Before coming to Tennessee, Roberson and his wife, Laurie (also a graduate), were co-advisers for the Native American Student Association at Kansas State University. When he arrived at Tennessee, Roberson was surprised to Roberson, a Cherokee, is an asso- learn that a similar organization was ciate professor at the University of not available. So he organized one and Tennessee. Growing up in Oklahoma, is helping launch an AISES chapter Roberson’s father was an agricul- at Tennessee.

“Mentoring and guiding Native stuture teacher, so animals have always been part of his life. He graduated dents is extremely satisfying,” says from Adair High School and earned Roberson. “Helping students succeed his bachelor’s degree and his DVM is really great, and I’ll do anything I degree (’86) from OSU. After com- can to help.” pleting a yearlong internship in foodanimal medicine and surgery at Iowa State University, he went on to earn a Ph.D. in veterinary science from Washington State University.

Today, Roberson spends his time delivering classroom lectures, conducting research, writing, investigating disease outbreaks and performing clinical duties. A specialist in mastitis, especially in dairy cows, the most rewarding aspect of his work is providing hands-on instruction to students in labs and surgeries. But there is one more thing that lifts Roberson a cut above his colleagues.

Dr. Jerry Roberson gets a milk sample from a dairy cow.

Throughout his career, Roberson has spearheaded more than 20 funded research projects in veterinary medicine and bovine health. He has demonstrated important findings in the overuse of antibiotics in dairy farms and bacteria resistance, among other topics. Roberson has also been honored for his teaching style, including winning the 2011 Carl J. Norden Pfizer Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award and the 2011 Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association Lecturer and Outstanding Educator Award.

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Brent Johnson named finalist for campus honor

Marilyn Wilson receives the 2011 University Service Award from Oklahoma State Vice President Gary Clark.

Marilyn Wilson wins University Service Award University Service Awards recognize a faculty member, a staff member and an administrator for meritorious service to Oklahoma State University.

As director of fiscal affairs, Wilson oversaw every aspect of a $35 million budget as well as served as point person for all human resource issues and responsibilities. Throughout her career, she has been a tremendous ambassador for the veterinary center and an outstanding employee. Wilson has earned the respect of her veterinary colleagues, central and college administration and individual faculty and staff.

The 2011 University Service Award administrator recipient was Marilyn Wilson, a 34-year veteran of the veterinary center. She is known for her strong work ethic, grace in handling difficult situations and doing the right thing every time.

She often put in extra hours on “Marilyn retired in early 2012. nights and weekends to handle As we began looking for somean emergency or meet a deadline. one to fill her shoes, the scope of what she brought to OSU became increasingly clear,” says Dr. Jean Sander, dean of the veterinary center. “I can think of no more deserving recipient for the 2011 University Service Award.”

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Staff Advisory Distinguished Service Awards recognize individuals, judged by their peers, who bring value to their workplace, exhibit a positive attitude toward those they serve, and in general are outstanding representatives of Oklahoma State University.

Brent Johnson, an analytical toxicologist at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, was a finalist for the 2011 Staff Advisory Distinguished Service Award. He is known as a great team player.

Johnson is the sole worker and lab manager in the toxicology laboratory.

This year, he stepped up to work in three sections of the OADDL at the same time.

In addition to running myriad tests every day in the toxicology lab, Johnson was asked to run piroplasmosis tests in the serology lab, which required him to become certified. The extra effort he put forth was vital, enabling the lab to provide timely information to horse owners so that they could race their horses or compete at shows and fairs.

“Brent is a perfect example of a loyal, hard worker,” says Sandra Morgan, DVM, M.S., diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology. “He is able to do all of this multitasking because he is intelligent, capable and willing. He always goes the extra mile and will help whoever needs it in the lab. Steady and professional, Brent has a positive attitude and keeps the goals of the entire OADDL in mind.”

Genesee Photo Systems

Patricia McElroy, granddaughter of Dr. Clarence McElroy, presents the prestigious Dean

Clarence H. McElroy Award for 2012 to Jason Duell of Hennessey, Okla.

McElroy Award goes to Hennessey student Jason Duell of Hennessey, Okla., is the 2012 Dean Clarence H. McElroy Awa rd recipient. Having always enjoyed working with animals and the sciences, veterinary medicine gave him a way to combine both for a rewarding career.

Throughout veterinary college, Duell served as an ambassador for the college, an OSU Academic Integrity Panel member and Christian Veterinary Fellowship president.

The Dean McElroy Award is the highest honor a veterinary student can earn. Duell also received an American College of Veterinary Surgeons Award and the Dean Michael D. Lorenz Endowed Scholarship for his academic achievements.

“I was very surprised when I was “I will be forever grateful for the named as the Dean McElroy Award friends I have made at OSU and the recipient,” says Duell. “It’s such an people I met along the way,” says Duell. amazing honor. I know that there are so “It is a privilege to practice veterinary many who are deserving, and it is very medicine, and I am thankful each day humbling to have been chosen.” for the opportunity.”

Established in honor of the first dean of the veterinary college, Dr. McElroy, the award is based on ballots from faculty and fourth-year students for his or her high academic achievement, leadership and outstanding clinical proficiency.

Duell is headed to a small-animal rotating internship at Texas A&M University to further hone his specialty of small-animal veterinary medicine. He is the son of Fred and Sheila Duell of Hennessey.

— Derinda Blakeney

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Bovine Veterinarian

AVC honors founding member and OSU alumnus At the 2012 Academy of Veterinary Consultants meeting, Dr. Harold Rinker, Class of 1958, was honored posthumously with AVC’s Outstanding Service Award. Sponsored

by Merck Animal Health, the award was presented to Rinker’s family by OSU alumnus Dr. Tom Latta (’68).

Dr. Hal Rinker

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“I went to work for Dr. Rinker right out of veterinary college in 1968,” says Latta, a past-president of the AVC. “He was my mentor in production medicine.

I have worked at a general veterinary practice; however, the last 30 years, I have spent as a consultant. It was an honor for me to present this achievement award to Dr. Rinker’s wife, Jan, and their daughters, Kim White and Kelly Cantrell.”

Rinker, who died Jan. 2, The AVC Outstanding Ser2012, was a founding mem- vice Award recognizes a member and the second president of ber who has made outstanding the AVC. contributions to AVC and the “Hal Rinker was a leader in beef cattle and veterinary medfeedlot health and medicine. He ical profession. According to embraced the philosophies that information published by Merck are necessary to be an effective Animal Health, Dr. Rinker was feedlot practitioner,” says Dr. a pioneer in the industry and a Roger Panciera, one of Rinker’s great teacher and positive influformer professors and an OSU ence to many.

Professor Emeritus who nominated Rinker for the award. “He rewrote the books on veterinary practice when it comes to feedlot medicine. The old thought process was to put a lot of importance on the individual animal.

The feedlot practice recognizes that it is about what is best for all of the animals.”

ABOVE: Accepting the AVC Outstanding Service award on behalf of Dr. Hal Rinker were his wife and daughters, (front row, from left) Kim White, Jan Rinker and Kelly Cantrell.

Congratulating the Rinker family were (back row, from left) Dr. Tom Latta, AVC immediate past president and longtime colleague of Rinker’s; Linda Latta; Mary Bechtol; Dr. David Bechtol, founding AVC member and first president; and Dr. Eric Moore of Merck Animal Health.

Photo provided

Facilities manager wins Stratton Staff Award Jim Hargrave came to OSU for a challenge. The veterinary center’s facilities manager found that in spades, but he also found a rewarding career as well as a loving and supportive community that became like a second family.

Jim Hargrave and Dean Jean Sander show off Hargrave’s plaque for winning the

2012 Stratton Staff Award.

Hargrave came to OSU in 1991 after a decade running the Cushing Regional Hospital’s facilities. A native of San Antonio, Hargrave grew up in an engineering family. His father was a mechanical and electrical engineer who owned a heating and air conditioning company. He spent four years in the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic controller and mechanic, stationed for a time at King Salmon, Alaska, and Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin. He later attended the University of Texas at Austin on the G.I. Bill.

“We have a lot of good people here,” says Hargrave, who won the center’s Stratton Staff Award for 2012.

The author of his department nomination form lauds Hargrave for his demeanor, courteousness and dedication to his job, something he says He moved to Oklahoma in 1981 to has grown into a 24-hour, sevendays-a-week post he wouldn’t trade work at the hospital in Cushing. He met his wife there and bought some for the world. land northeast of town before making the career change from humans to animals with his move to OSU.

“I was looking into getting into a bigger pond, I guess,” Hargrave says.

“Something with a better retirement system and benefits.”

2 01 2 ’s S t ratt o n S t a ff Aw a r d couldn’t have gone to someone with more on his plate.

Hargrave oversees McElroy Hall, a labyrinthine facility built and added on to at various times since 1940 that contains classrooms, offices and labs.

He also runs the Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, which is almost a full-time job by itself. continues

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Government regulations are very different for animal and human hospitals, as are the kinds of failsafe infrastructure required to ensure patients get the care they should receive, Hargrave says. In addition to those rules, he must know how everything inside the hospital works, from the smallest network of pipes to the most complex radiation equipment. He also oversees the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, an equine ranch, several research centers, a hay barn and an animal shelter.

That’s more than 454,000 square feet of buildings. Hargrave maintains them with just three mechanics, a plumber, several HVAC engineers and an electrician.

to normal. Typically, we get calls or emails several times a month after hours and on weekends when there is a critical need. But we’ve got great ability to take care of these remotely with technology.”

Hargrave is also the point man for every construction project the center undertakes. He’s the go-between for the center’s leadership, engineers, architects and construction companies working on expansion projects, such as a recently completed $13 million addition to the diagnostic disease lab.

He is most proud of an energy savings program begun in 2003 that culminated in the automated climate control system installed in 2008. He can monitor conditions Getting complex in every building. It lets him adjust As the veterinary center’s focus has the system for peak usage times, cutevolved into comparative medicine ting energy costs. And he started it (the areas where human and animal five years before OSU established its health intersect), his job has become own campuswide energy conservamore complex. The addition of a biotion movement. safety level-3 lab in 2001 and other “I’m proud of that,” Hargrave says. features means he has to monitor “We’re close to $2 million in savings — critical systems constantly. Technolmoney we wouldn’t have if we hadn’t ogy, such as a system that calls or texts taken those measures. And we’ve also him when things go wrong, makes been able to deliver a more comfortthat easier, but it also has made his able environment.” job more time-consuming.

Further evidence of Hargrave’s dedOne night, that system sent him an ication to his work shows in his battle email that the temperature in a critwith cancer.

Shortly after he started at ical research lab was rising, causing OSU in 1991, doctors found a grapesensitive equipment to shut down. A fruit-size tumor in his abdomen, and scientist there was distraught that she he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin was going to lose her data and expenlymphoma.

He was given a 60 percent sive technology. chance he wouldn’t make it five years.

“Using my iPad, I went online to But his cancer entered remission the building automation system we after several rounds of chemotherinstalled in 2008 and saw the temapy and grueling radiation treatperature inside the lab,” Hargrave ments.

During that time, Hargrave, says. “It was in the 80s. I went to the who drove himself to and from his air handling unit graphics, diagnosed treatments, kept up his normal schedthat a heating valve had failed and ule at work. everything was on full heat. I turned it off, and temperatures went back

“Vet Med took good care of me. They really did. There are some people here that really helped me a lot. I wasn’t at 100 percent by any means, but they let me hang around.”

No ‘pity parties’ His cancer returned a few years later. More radiation treatments followed, and he went 16 years without relapsing until just over a year ago before Christmas. Today, he has seven tumors spread around his chest, shoulder and abdomen. Enduring more treatments, he still comes to work and does his job as well as he always has.

He doesn’t dwell His fish fries on it or have “pity a r e n ot h i n g short of parties,” he says. He l e g e n da ry. has a wonderful support network anchored by his wife, June Hargrave, who is a registered nurse, and his best friend, Dr. Ike Hubbard. He also volunteers with Relay for Life and is frequently found fishing on Oklahoma lakes. An awardwinning bass fisherman, Hargrave goes saltwater fishing near Corpus Christi with the Saltwater Cowboys — some vet school faculty and staff members who stay in a condo in Port Aransas, Texas, and spend a few days out in the Gulf of Mexico fishing.

His fish fries are nothing short of legendary. One year, he got together with some fishing buddies from the Physical Plant, set up some awnings outside the vet school, wrangled some tables and chairs and hauled over a grill and fryers. They ended up feeding about 300 people, he says.

Meanwhile, he takes solace in the fact that, by running the veterinary center’s facilities, he’s helping in the fight against cancer.

“Research is so important. I’m on a drug that wasn’t around two years ago.

So sometimes I feel like with the job I’m doing here with the facilities and other things I’m contributing a little bit to my part of the fight.”

— Matt Elliott

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A frequent OSU donor won the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association’s Veterinarian of the Year award for 2012.

Dr. Calvin White, owner of the Ada Veterinary Clinic, received the award at a ceremony last January during the association’s annual convention in Oklahoma City. White, who has been practicing medicine for 35 years, says he supports OSU because he believes strongly in its mission.

“I’m a cow college fan,” White says. “I went to Mississippi State.

Our rival was Ole Miss. I went to Auburn, and our rival was Alabama.”

“I’ve been impressed with what she has done so far, continuing in the college’s tradition of reaching out to the veterinary medical community in Oklahoma,” he says.

Recently, he has taken a leading role in fundraising for the college.

With others at the OSU Foundation and the school, he set up a contest to see if veterinarians who didn’t go to OSU could raise more money than those who did.

“Of course, the OSU people won, but we probably got some money out of some people that we might not have otherwise. If you’re going to be in the state, you need to support them.”

He is practicing in Oklahoma today because several of his proWhite compares OSU favorfessors were from there, and one, ably with his alma mater, Auburn Dr. Bob Hudson, was an Okla- University (’77), for its emphasis homa State alumnus. on producing veterinarians with White’s first experience with strong backgrounds as mixed Oklahoma came during his pre- practitioners. Ideally, he says, ceptorship in 1977, when he specializing should come later worked for a practice in Coalgate. in a vet’s career.

“I just like the people in Oklahoma,” White says. “Plus, there are more cattle and horses here than where I grew up in Poplarville, Mississippi.”

He worked at the Coalgate clinic after finishing his preceptorship. Then, he bought into his Ada practice, which he co-owned for 26 years until 2007, when he bought out his partner, Dr. Don Connally.

White feels a duty to donate to Oklahoma State because of the quality of its services such as referrals, disease diagnoses, research and scientific expertise.

He knows the college will remain strong under its new dean, Dr. Jean Sander, hired in 2011 to replace the college’s dean since 2004, Dr. Michael Lorenz.

Photo provided

Ada veterinarian wins state’s top honor

In addition to working as a practitioner, White has been a member of the advisory board to Murray State College’s Veterinary Technology Program.

He also has been a strong supporter of 4-H and Future Farmers of America programs. Other volunteer leadership includes his chairing of the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association Youth Scholarship Fund. White has also volunteered with the American Quarter Horse Association, the Pontotoc County Cattlemen’s Association, the Ada Chamber of Commerce and the Pontotoc County Animal Shelters.

Dr. Calvin White of Ada is the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association’s Veterinarian of the Year for 2012.

The Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association honored a number of Oklahoma State alumni at its 2012 awards banquet. Those awarded include: Small-Animal Practitioner of the Year —

D r . S ybil H eise

of Guymon, Class of 1971

Young Practitioner of the Year —

D r . D ustin B rown

of McLoud,

Class of 2005 Distinguished Service Award —

D r . S cot t M ason

of Oklahoma City,

Class of 1991

— Matt Elliott

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Four named Distinguished Alumni The Distinguished Alumni Award is selected and presented by the College of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association Committee.

It recognizes outstanding professional and personal achievements and contributions to the enhancement of the veterinary profession. the 2011 honorees are Dr. Theresa Casey, Dr. Keith Flanagan, Dr. Dee Griffin and Dr. Kermit Minton.

D r . T heresa C asey Casey has demonstrated the value of veterinary education with a stellar military career that has included many firsts.

She earned her DVM degree in 1982. In 1989, she earned a master’s degree in public health (environmental toxicology) from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and in 1990 she became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine.

Theresa Casey’s Firsts include: Chief, military public health and commander, Aerospace Medicine Squadron, 86th Medical Group, Ramstein Air Base in Germany. She was the first veterinarian to command an Air Force medical squadron. Casey directed comprehensive clinical, preventive medicine, health promotion, public health and industrial hygiene services for the largest overseas U.S. military community.

European Command Humanitarian Assistance Team senior medical officer, Goma, Zaire. A veterinarian and BSC officer had never held a similar position of leadership and responsibility. She coordinated Department of Defense

Following Congress’ abolishment of the Air Force Veterinary Corps in 1982, Casey began her veterinary military career in the Air Force Biomedical Sciences Corps, serving as the chief of environmental health services at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma.

She was one of the first veterinarians to enter this field.

Joint task force surgeon for Kosovo Albanian Humanitarian Operations. As

Casey accomplished many firsts in her career as a veterinarian and BSC officer.

emergency evacuation requirements for more than 1,000 military personnel.

support for humanitarian relief for 1.5 million Rwandan refugees.

Deputy commander, 86th Medical Group, Ramstein Air Base, Germany.

Again, a veterinarian had never been selected as the deputy commander of an Air Force hospital. Casey was second-in-charge of the largest Air Force outpatient care facility in Europe. senior medical officer, she coordinated preventive medicine, acute care and Commander, 86th Air Expeditionary Group. Casey led a 200-member multidisciplinary team of medical, communications, security, engineering and food service personnel providing acute care, surgery and immunizations to more than 19,000 patients in six days during a Department of Defense humanitarian exercise in Cameroon.

Commander, 1st Medical Group, Langley Air Force Base, Va. She was the first veterinarian and BSC officer to serve as chief executive officer of the fifth-largest hospital in the Air Force.

Director, Medical Modernization Directorate and Biomedical Sciences Corps Chief. Casey was the chief executive officer for one of four directorates at the Office of the U.S. Air Force Surgeon General. As chief of the Biomedical Sciences Corps, she was responsible for recruitment, retention and career advancement for more than 2,200 officers serving in 17 distinct allied health disciplines.

Brigadier General. Selected in August 2006, Casey was the first active duty BSC officer and veterinarian to serve as a general officer.

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Casey has received numerous awards, including the Association of Military Surgeons of the United States’ 2009 James A. McCallum Award for her outstanding accomplishments in military veterinary medicine, the 2003 Military Volunteer Award for extended sign language/deaf ministry service, 2000 Order of Valour from the Republic of Cameroon for leadership in a combined U.S.-Cameroon humanitarian exercise and delivery of health care services and training, and the list goes on.

A lifetime member of the OSU Alumni Association, she is also a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Food Hygiene Veterinarians and a lifetime member of the Air Force Association.

Perhaps Casey’s greatest contribution has been to the veterinary profession. Her personal veterinary knowledge, capability and leadership clearly demonstrated to the Air Force medical community the attributes and capabilities within the veterinary profession. She serves as a role model, and her example will open doors and create new opportunities for current and future veterinarians, both military and civilian.

Casey is currently a consultant for Decon III LLC in Belton, Texas, working with Air Force and Navy medical facilities worldwide on the decontamination of patients exposed to chemical, biological or radiological weapons and toxic industrial materials. She also is a member of the National Animal Health Emergency Response Corps, serving as an on-call veterinarian to help protect animal populations and communities during emergencies. Married to John L. LeHew IV, she resides in Belton and has three children, Courtney, Katie and John.

D r . K eith F lanagan Dr. Keith Flanagan has been working to improve lives and health care in Haiti since 1986.

Flanagan earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma State University in 1978. He spent the next two years serving as a captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps as group veterinarian for the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C. Following his military service, he worked at the Marlow Veterinary Clinic for seven years with a classmate, Dr. Lyndon Graf.

During 1986, Flanagan took a 14-day visit to Haiti. The next thing he knew, he was asking his wife, Jan, what she thought about living in Haiti. Flanagan began working with the Christian Veterinary Mission as the staff veterinarian and farm manager at Hospital Albert Schweitzer in Deschapelles, Haiti. He planned to work for a couple of years in Haiti — set up some programs, train people in animal health care and return to the States.

Twenty-four years later, he is still there.

Through his years in Haiti, Flanagan has held many positions and been involved in several projects and programs including instituting preventive health measures, potable water development, training animal health agents, liaison to the Haitian Ministry of Agriculture, co-director of Classical Swine Fever program and co-director of the Avian Influenza program. continues

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In addition, Flanagan has been director of two Pan-American Development Foundation road and canal rehabilitation projects in the Artibonite Valley of Haiti, evaluated veterinary medicine animal training programs in Kenya and Tanzania, consultant to Save the Children for evaluation of an animal health training program in Ethiopia, consultant to Heifer Project International to develop and facilitate an animal health training of trainers course in Creole, and the list goes on and on.

In his current position with Christian Veterinary Mission, Flanagan hosts short-term mission trips and trains and mentors young Haitian veterinarians. He continues to work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture on animal disease control programs. His wish is that the programs he has helped implement and the work he has done will keep moving forward even after he is gone.

Both Flanagan, the son of Rosella Flanagan of Texhoma, and his wife, Jan, graduated from Texhoma High School and Panhandle State University. They raised two sons in Haiti, Sean and Brian. Sean and his wife, Chandra, both graduated from OSU. They now reside with their two children in Decatur, Ala., where Sean works as a computer specialist with Raytheon. After graduating from Texhoma High School and Oklahoma Panhandle State University, Brian returned to do community development work in Haiti for six years. While there, he met his wife, Robin. They have recently moved to New York state, where Brian will pursue a master’s program in international agriculture development at Cornell University.

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D r . D ee G riffin Dr. Dee Griffin has had a tremendous impact on the cattle industry.

He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1975 and a master’s degree in veterinary pathology and animal science from Purdue University in 1978.

Griffin has spent most of his career in the cattle industry. He was the staff veterinarian for Hitch Enterprises, a family-owned operation that has 1,200 cows, as many as 20,000 stockers, more than 250,000 feeder cattle and two packing plants. Griffin has worked with the Beef Quality Awareness Program since its inception, when Hitch Enterprises became the first U.S. Department of Agriculture verified control production beef operation.

Today, Griffin is a professor at the University of Nebraska in veterinary and biomedical science, teaching at the Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center.

His emphasis is on developing pre-harvest HACCP (hazard analysis, critical control points) production practices dealing with residue avoidance. He has a keen interest in respiratory disease and proper antibiotic usage.

D r . K ermit M inton Dr. Kermit Minton has made a 50-year career spent in Lindsay, Okla., a family affair.

After Minton graduated from Sulphur High School Oklahoma, he enrolled at Murray State University, where he took 60 hours in three semesters and won two scholarships as the top agriculture student. He enrolled at Oklahoma A&M College and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1956. In 1958, he earned his DVM degree and has served as the class representative since then.

A past president of the Academy of Veterinary Consultants, Griffin won two national awards from the American Association of Bovine Practitioners: one for Excellence in Preventive Medicine and one for Institutional Teaching, Research and Service Excellence. He received the Academy of Veterinary Consultants’ Consultant of the Year award.

He serves on the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Beef Quality and Safety Assurance Advisory Board, the FDA’s Veterinary Medical Advisory Committee and Minor Use Minor Species Committee, and the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization’s board.

Griffin is a member of several organizations, including the Academy of Veterinary Consultants, American Veterinary Medical Association, Plains Nutrition Council, Nebraska Cattlemen, Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association and the Nebraska Academy of Science.

In August 1958, Minton founded the Lindsay (Okla.)

Veterinary Hospital. One of his first cases was a farm call south of Lindsay concerning a cow that came from Louisiana that had died. Minton took samples and sent them to the State Department of Agriculture. The diagnosis was anthrax. State authorities investigated, resulting in quarantine for several farmers and ranchers in the area.

Through the years, Minton expanded the Lindsay Veterinary Hospital, serving both large and small animals. In 1992, he added to the large-animal facilities and installed a tilting chute to accommodate larger livestock. Clients included local farmers and ranchers whose locales ranged from Verden, Okla., to Marietta, Okla.

retired from teaching school and became the office manager at his practice. In 1993, daughter Tammy Minton joined the practice after earning her DVM degree from her father’s alma mater. Many clients began referring to the Mintons as “Big Doc,” “Little Doc,” and “Mrs. Doc.” In 1997, Tammy Minton took over the practice. Her father continued to work part-time. In 1999, they expanded the building to incorporate more space for small animals and added more diagnostic equipment for blood work and radiographs. In 2005, they officially stopped working with large animals, selling all of the equipment pertaining to the large-animal side of the business. Lindsay Veterinary Hospital strictly serves small animals today.

Kermit Minton was more than a veterinarian in Lindsay. A past president, he continues to be active in the Lions Club. He is a lifetime member of both the Future Farmers of America and the Elks Lodge.

Minton is also a lifetime member of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association and the OSU Alumni Association. He proudly displays a special gold seal on his 50-year license to practice veterinary medicine.

Minton still enjoys his work, Minton suffered a hear t visiting with clients and spendattack in 1990. His wife, Frankie, ing time at the family’s cabin at Little Glasses Resort at Lake Texoma.

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Before the supermarket New elective introduces students to food-animal production systems

Ashley DeMeo visits with a baby calf during a trip that was in the “Introduction to Food-Animal Production Systems� elective course.

Photo provided

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“We try to encourage students A new elective, “Introduction to Food-Animal Produc- who have minimal exposure tion Systems,” is opening the and knowledge of food animals eyes of some veterinary students. to apply. We want to give those The weeklong class, offered to who are not familiar with cows students during the summer or swine an opportunity to learn between their second and third about the industry and become years of veterinary college, is more comfortable with it,” says familiarizing students with the Dr. John Gilliam, clinical assisfood-production components tant professor in food-animal of the beef, dairy and swine production medicine and field services and the other course industries.

“We offered the course in 2011 co-creator. and again in 2012,” explains Dr. Jared Taylor, an assistant professor in veterinary pathobiology and co-creator of the elective.

“The first time through, on Tuesday I thought maybe we should offer two sessions. By Friday of that week, I wasn’t sure I wanted to offer it ever again. It’s a very intense week. We take 10 students through a variety of modern food-animal production systems in Oklahoma and Texas.

Both years, the class has been comprised of all female students.

“The course helps dispel misconceptions about agricultural production,” says clinical assistant professor Dr. John Gilliam.

Some fourth-year students would discover that they really enjoyed the food-animal medicine rotation, but they felt a little intimidated by the productionmedicine industry because they were never exposed to it before.

“While this course may ignite their interest to choose a foodanimal medicine career at some level — it would be wonderful to have more food-animal veterinarians — it also helps students have a better understanding of production agriculture,” says Gil“While we don’t actually visit liam. “They see the realities of swine nurseries or finishing what it is like firsthand, not from barns, the students meet and their previous perceptions or talk with people who oversee from media reports. The course those operations,” says Taylor. helps dispel misconceptions “We want the students to see all about agricultural production. the components of these three They are able to talk to people who do this for a living. Even if food-animal systems.”

Students from the Class of these students never engage in 2014 were selected to participate production medicine, they will based on an interest in food-ani- be able to draw on this experience and their exposure to the mal medicine.

“I was excited to be able to take challenges and realities of this the course,” says Kami Jensen. “I business and help educate the plan on being a mixed-animal public, friends and family about practitioner, and this allowed food-animal production.” me to see how animal agriculPhoto provided ture works on a large scale and the role veterinarians play in the industry.”

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Hitting the road

Early Tuesday morning, the group left Stillwater for GuyOn a Monday morning, 10 stumon, Okla. dents and two faculty members boarded an OSU bus and headed “At Hitch Feedlots in Guytoward Oklahoma City. mon, Dr. Shawn Blood (OSU “We utilize the drive time for ’89) hosted the group,” says Taygroup discussions,” says Tay- lor. Hitch has one of the largest lor. “Our first stop was Express feedlots in Oklahoma.

Angus Ranches in Yukon, Okla., The next morning, the group to look at a seed stock opera- stopped at Seaboard swine opertion. This facility raises purebred ations in Guymon. They visited a bulls, primarily Angus, to sell to swine farrowing barn and swine commercial cow/calf operations. slaughter plant before driving to Then it was on to the Oklahoma the Circle H Veterinary Clinic in National Stock Yards in Okla- Dalhart, Texas. homa City, where we met with “We met up with Angela DanDr. Troy Shelby (OSU ’89). We iels, who connected us to a varithen visited the Tim Haines fam- ety of operations,” says Taylor. ily ranch, a commercial cow/calf “Thursday, we visited Dalhart operation before heading home Jersey Ranch, Van Ryn dairies, to Stillwater for the night.”

Morning Start Dairy and Deer continues

The ten OSU veterinary students visited the Seaboard swine operations in Guymon.

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t o t h e d i n n e r t a bl e

Creek Feeding. We saw every“I really gained an appreciathing from custom heifer rais- tion of how many people depend ers through a variety of operating on animal agriculture for their dairies.” livelihoods and how seriously those people take the welfare “It was amazing to see how big and humane handling of the the world of food-animal proanimals,” says Alissa Anderson. duction really is. I gained knowl“I think often these workers are edge that helped to pique my viewed as not liking animals interest in the field,” adds Brandy because they work in places like Germany. slaughter plants and that really Their final destination was isn’t true. Everywhere we visited Booker, Texas. it seemed that animal welfare “We stopped at Preferred was one of the biggest priorities, Beef Group, a cull cow and bull whatever their final intended slaughter plant, where we met purpose was for those animals.” with Don Clift, CEO. We were Students are graded on their also able to tour the operation. participation.

They take a final Then we headed home to Stillexam and give a group presenwater,” adds Taylor. “Overall, tation, which is open to faculty, we’ve had positive feedback from students and OVMA members, the students. The second year in the fall. when we approached some of “This is a great opportunity for the same operations we visited the participants to share with the first year, they enthusiastiother students, who didn’t have cally welcomed us back.” the opportunity to go, the infor“The food-production elective mation and experiences they is a unique experience for veterhad,” says Taylor.

“It also can be a inary students. It’s a great value recruiting tool to increase interto anyone interested in the foodanimal industry. I learned a lot est for future years and if OVMA and gained a new perspective,” members attend, they can see how their support benefited the says Wendy Elbert. students’ education. Texas A&M And thanks to a variety of has a similar course but they do co-sponsors, all expenses are not cover the swine industry. covered.

North Carolina State student “The American Association of chapter of the American AssoBovine Practitioners Founda- ciation of Bovine Practitioners tion, Pfizer Animal Health and offers an annual trip to see catthe Oklahoma Veterinary Med- tle production facilities, but stuical Association have generously dents do not get credit for taking supported this program,” con- it. I think we’re offering our stutinues Taylor. “We also received dents a positive experience and some funding from the Depart- knowing the work they will put ment of Veterinary Clinical Sci- into the course, they are able to ences, Veterinary Pathobiology earn credit and hopefully we’ll and the dean’s office here at the encourage a few more students veterinary center.” to choose a mixed-animal practice as a career path.”

Assistant professor Dr. Jared Taylor says both students and the operations they visited during the “Introduction to Food-Animal Production Systems” regard the course very favorably.

— Derinda Blakeney

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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the big picture

Tackling diabetes Team hopes research from animals can lead to help for humans

Véronique Lacombe, DVM, Ph.D., brought a long history of comparative medicine research with her when she joined OSU’s veterinary center as an associate professor in physiological sciences. Since she was a veterinary student, Lacombe has had an interest in metabolism, the complex process the body uses to turn food into energy.

Specifically, her fields of interest include skeletal and cardiac muscle energetics, glucose transport during diabetes, insulin resistance using small- and large-animal models, as well as cardiovascular complications during diabetes.

“Diabetes is an epidemic disease that affects more than 250 million people with almost 10 percent of the population affected in the U.S., and it is expected that the worldwide prevalence will rise to 450 million by 2030,” she says. “As a result, the disease imposes a considerable medical and economic burden on societies. My lab is investigating the regulation of glucose transport in insulin-sensitive tissue. In other words, we are looking at how the glucose (i.e., sugar) in the bloodstream transfers to tissue. This process is the metabolic bottleneck for glucose utilization and fuel production. In addition, this process is altered in people who have diabeThe main mission of Lacombe and her tes because they have improper production team is researching mechanisms underlyand/or action of insulin, a hormone that is ing diabetes, a complex disease for which necessary to make that transfer.” there is no cure.

While there is no drug to cure diabetes, human diabetes can be regulated and monitored to avoid complications.

“With a diet regimen, exercise and weight loss, diabetics can help manage their disease.

When skeletal muscles contract, that process helps transport glucose into cells. Exercise can speed glucose uptake in muscles.

However, the process by which contraction enhances glucose transport is unknown, and it is one of the research focuses of my laboratory. Findings from this research could lead to the discovery of a cure for diabetic patients.” continues

Dr. Melody de Laat (left) demonstrates the new microultrasound machine with Dr. Veronique Lacombe

(center) and Brittany Evans.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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the big picture

Lacombe says glucose is one of the main sources of fuel for the body, and the uptake of glucose from the blood into the cell and its utilization by the cell to produce energy is similar across all species — human and animal.

“Because the process is similar, we use both small- and large-animal models in my lab, spanning from mice to horses. If we find mechanisms responsible for diabetes using these species, it could also have an impact on human health, a concept referred to as one health, one medicine,” she says. “For example, in mice, we can upregulate a protein potentially implicated in the transport of glucose to see if it will help prevent diabetes. As a result, we have now established a line of mice that are resistant to diabetes.

Like people, horses can become obese, which can lead to a metabolic disorder such as insulin resistance. Interestingly, cats can get transient diabetes, where the diabetes goes into spontaneous remission. Unlike the rodent models used to study diabetes,

which are generated from inbred strains of laboratory mice, these naturally occurring models are genetically diverse and exposed to many of the same environmental factors that humans are, and they are great models of metabolic disorders.

After earning her DVM degree, Lacombe completed her residency in large-animal internal medicine and worked as an equine clinician before focusing on research.

“As a clinician first and a scientist second, I am a better researcher and ask questions that By transcending species boundaries to are clinically relevant. Clinical veterinary medinclude the study of spontaneous and exper- icine and research are similar processes. In imental models of human disease, research both cases you start with a problem. In clinin comparative medicine can lead to excit- ical veterinary medicine, you have a list of ing discoveries that will benefit both people different diagnoses that could be causing the problem. In research, you have different and animals.”

Lacombe firmly believes that veteri- hypotheses you want to prove. One by one, you narians’ thorough training puts them in a check them off the list in both areas. In clinical unique position to improve research and veterinary medicine you have a final diagnosis, and you treat it. In research, you have the help society. correct hypothesis, and you find a cure or you “Veterinarians have such a broad training. take one step closer to finding a cure. We are We have to know all the different species responsible to nourish that aspect of the vetfrom fish to elephants. That vast knowlerinary profession and train the next generaedge can be applied in comparative medition of veterinary scientists.” cine research. It is a career path with many — Derinda blakeney rewards that many veterinary students don’t really think about.”

Big pictures from little things New micro-ultrasound machine gets clear pictures from inside small critters The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences purchased a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine in 2011 that greatly expands researchers’ ability to image small animals.

The machine, the VisualSonics Vevo 2100 , allows vet school scientists such as its operator, Dr. Véronique Lacombe, to see into the organs and systems of lab animals as small as mice and rabbits. The high-frequency digital imager adds to the vet school’s growing list of imaging technology that already includes MRI and CT scan machines, and a human-size ultrasound machine available at the teaching hospital.

U l t ra s o u n d u s e s s o u n d waves to create images of how things work inside bodies by translating how the waves pass through different objects into an image. They are used in everything from imaging fetuses and the hearts of people suffering from cardiovascular disease to cancer.

It’s easy to envision their usefulness in veterinary medicine as well, including the booming realm of comparative medicine and preclinical research that focuses on problems afflicting both animals and humans. Naturally, it makes sense to use animals to model human systems in research.

The VisualSonics Vevo

2100 micro-ultrasound machine is believed to be

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the only one of its kind in Oklahoma.

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 Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Dr. Véronique Lacombe (center) has put together a team to research the mechanisms underlying diabetes. Studying with her are (from left) Kaylynn Gruntmeier, a senior studying zoology at OSU; Chelsie Clement, a senior in animal sciences; Brittany Evans, a veterinary student in the Class of 2015; and Dr. Melody de Laat, a post-doctoral research associate in physiological sciences.

The problem is that large ultrasound machines operate at a lower sound frequency to pass through larger patients, such as a human or a horse.

It is not as helpful to image a mouse or a rat because the image quality wouldn’t be as good.

The Vevo 2100, believed to it pumps blood, as well as how be the only one in Oklahoma, the heart tissue contracts and is in Lacombe’s Compara- relaxes during each heartbeat, tive Metabolism Laboratory letting her “detect subtle heart in the vet school’s physiology dysfunction very early on in the department. process of the disease in our diabetic mice,” Lacombe says.

It has already proven help-

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

therapy effectiveness. And 3-D reconstructions of organs are possible.

“It’s a huge improvement since this micro-ultrasound machine greatly expands our understanding of the physiful in her research.

“Also, with this high resolu- ologic and pathophysiologiA s d i a b e t e s i s o n e o f tion, you can also inject any- cal processes in small animal “With this micro-ultrasound Lacombe’s chief areas of inter- thing you want into a targeted models.” Lacombe says. machine, you can’t go very est, she often works with small site, including the brain and The Vevo 2100 is available deep, but you’re going to have animals, such as mice and rats the spinal cord. You can also for any researcher in the vetera spectacular resolution of the as models of human metabolic use micro bubble technol- inary college or on OSU’s camspecific area that you’re exam- diseases. ogy,” she says. “You can create pus to use, she says. ining,” Lacombe says. “The One of the increasingly small bubbles of air that will “It can be used by any invesadvantage of this machine is common condition’s accom- go through the heart or blood tigators on campus since it is that it has the same features as panying diabetes is heart dis- vessels to mark the passage a common equipment. I think a human ultrasound machine, ease. Previously, she had to use of what you’re trying to track.” the more people we have but it has been designed to human ultrasound machines in She can also look at blood using it from different areas of image all the organs of small her animal models that were flow into organs to track vas- research, the better it would be. animals, including of early not as useful in her work. cular diseases. It also lets I think it could even generate embryonic and neonatal mice.”

This machine lets her look her deliver gene and stem some collaborations between at everything from the shape cells at a targeted site and the veterinary school and other of the heart to how effectively measure things such as gene colleges on campus.”

— Matt Elliott

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bedside manner

Getting the word across

by Derinda Blakeney

Lab helps future vets hone their communication skills

“ C o mmu n i c at i o n — t h e h um a n c o n n e c t i o n — i s t h e k e y to p e r s o n a l a n d c a r e e r s ucc e s s .”

— Paul J. Meyer, author, Attitude is Everything!

From the first day of class at Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, future veterinarians start working on their communication skills — and they don’t stop. Specific exercises in the Veterinary Client Communication Clinical Technique Labs continually hone students’ rapport skills to prepare them to be practice-ready veterinarians upon their graduation.

Two fa c u l t y m e m b e r s at OSU’s Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital came up with the course after attending a weeklong training course. Adjunct assistant professor Dr. Paul DeMars and associate professor Dr. Carolynn MacAllister put ideas together and developed a program specific to OSU’s needs.

“The process is similar to human medicine client communications training, where students are trained how to communicate with patients both in gathering and giving information in the medical interview,” explains MacAllister.

“A remarkable and unique aspect of OSU’s veterinary communication training is we use real clients in our clinical scenarios. The clients are not trained actors; rather, they simply relive authentic medical problems they have experienced with their pets, which makes the interaction more realistic to the students.

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In the medical exam rooms, we have four cameras to accurately and completely record the student and owner verbal and nonverbal interactions in their simulated medical interviews.

Cameras and recording equipment were initially provided by Pfizer Animal Health. Subsequent equipment and program cost of the client communication simulation skills laboratories have been supported by Hill’s [Pet Nutrition].”

That sponsorship also allows the veterinary center to award two $500 “top communicator” scholarships to deserving students. DeMars and MacAllister view the tapes of each student to select the top four or five tapes for a panel of judges. The panel — made up of a communications professional, a veterinary academician and a veterinary practitioner — select the winners.

With the CVHS communication skills labs aligned across the entire four-year program, the In the beginning students aren’t forced to take it MacAllister says clients iniall in at once. The first-year vettially volunteered to serve as erinary students interview a simsimulated clients in medical sceulated client, who has brought narios involving their pets while in a pet with a health problem, the student practiced taking a and take a medical history. The medical history. next year, the students move up “At first, these volunteers parto performing a physical exam ticipated in the communication on the animal after the interview. skills labs because they hon“As the students progress estly enjoyed students and had through the years, their coma strong interest in helping stumunication interaction with dents learn how to effectively the client and the challenge of communicate even though we the case increases in proportion had no support to pay them or to what they have learned clinieven reimburse them for their cally and should be able to apply gas,” she recalls. “They basically to the simulated case. The entire like serving as living textbooks time the student and client are and have a passion to teach. talking, the session is being vidThanks to Hill’s [Pet Nutrition] eotaped. At the end of the sessponsorship, our simulated clision, the ‘client’ provides the ents now get paid a small stipend student with immediate feedfor their time.” back, including what went well and areas for improvement,” says MacAllister.

Third-year challenges In the third-year communication skills lab, the veterinary students perform two simulated client interviews. The history is taken on two different medical problems, questions are asked about the pet’s clinical signs, and a physical exam is conducted on the pet.

On the second of the two exams, MacAllister provides each student with a packet of information concerning the simulated case, including diagnostic test results that he or she would have ordered on the actual case, radiographs if appropriate along with reference material on the clinical problem. The student reviews the information along with other clinical reference resources and returns the next day to basically explain the diagnostic tests and deliver the diagnosis, treatment plan and prognosis to that same simulated client.

“Again, what’s really unique regarding these communication labs is the ‘clients’ are not acting. They are reliving the case that their pet had at one time or another. These volunteers have pets that have had common health problems. It is natural for the ‘client’ to share the history of this health problem, including clinical signs and what he or she has observed, because it really happened to their pet. It’s real to them, and it makes it real

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Ray Hammergren “discusses” a diagnosis and treatment for his dog, Greta, with student Nicole Morton (Class of 2013) in the communications lab.

Veterinary medicine students polish their communications skills with clients in the course.

to the student, and that is important and the pivotal reason this communication lab has been a success,” she adds.

The client volunteers come from all walks of life. They all are clients of the OSU Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital — one is a retired FBI special agent, another a retired professor, several are OSU alumni, and one is a young mother of two who lives in Edmond and drives to Stillwater a couple times a month to participate in the simulated interviews.

Ray Hammergren served 20 years as a special agent with the FBI. In addition to his wife’s friendship with MacAllister, his two schnauzers — Greta and Minnie — have been regular patients at OSU’s community practice in the small-animal clinic since the couple moved

to Stillwater in 1994. He has Retired OSU veterinary hosProfessor’s return been part of the client commu- pital director and alumnus, John One of the center’s highly decnications program for the past Kirkpatrick (Class of 1965) is orated professors, now retired, six years. another regular client for the has been with the program for the last three years.

“I enjoy being with the stu- communications lab. dents,” says Hammergren. “They “I believe we do a great job “I enjoy being back with the are very eager to learn and inter- of training veterinary students students. Who knew I would ested in any comments or con- in medicine, surgery, anesthe- miss them so much?” says structive criticism I can offer siology, etc.,” says Kirkpatrick. Rebecca Morton, who is also an them. The students come from “This class in client communica- alumna (Class of 1972). “This is all over the country — California tion puts icing on the cake as far an excellent way to prepare stuto Florida to upstate New York. as training veterinary students. dents in the art of history taking I even talked with one student It helps students improve their and client relations. When I was who spent the first two years of interpersonal skills and become in veterinary school, this type veterinary college studying in more comfortable with clients. of class was not offered. Lookthe Caribbean before transfer- These interaction skills and the ing back, I know it would have ring to OSU. I remember one ability to develop rapport with helped me tremendously as I was student who said she was inter- clients will transfer directly to shy and nervous around clients. ested in small-animal practice practice. I love interacting with Here, the students get feedback when she started studying; now veterinary students and watch- on how they are perceived by clishe wants to go to Wisconsin and ing them improve their skills.” ents. I am glad I am able to help take care of dairy cows. It fascithe students enhance their internates me to hear their stories.” personal skills. “ continues

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Phil Shockley / University Marketing

“ T h i s cl a s s i n cl i e n t c o mmu n i c at i o n pu t s i c i n g o n the cake as fa r a s t r a i n i n g v e t e r i n a ry s t ud e n t s . I t h e lp s s t ud e n t s i mp r ov e t h e i r interpersonal s k i ll s a n d become more c o mf o r ta bl e w i t h cl i e n t s .”

— John Kirkpatrick,Retired OSU veterinary hospital director, alumnus (Class of 1965) and communications lab volunteer “client”

Adjunct assistant professor

Morton brings Roz, her Borzoi “On the community practice (also known as a Russian wolf- rotation, the students spend hound), to the client communi- three weeks focused on wellcation class. ness medicine and primary-care “A Borzoi is not a breed com- cases,” says Paul DeMars, commonly seen, and most of the munity practice assistant prostudents really enjoy her,” says fessor. “They are required to Morton. “I am sure the public rec- submit five videos, which are ognizes the importance of good then evaluated and critiqued to ‘bedside manner’ in physicians. help sharpen their medical and This program is helping in that communication skills.” regard for veterinarians, many of whom are more animal-oriented than people oriented. This helps them move past that, to be practice-ready veterinarians.”

“All the changes and improvements we have made to the communication skills labs over the years have been student driven,” says MacAllister. “From the The communication train- seniors telling us they wanted ing culminates in the fourth to receive the training earlier in year when the students become the curriculum to students saypart of the team that sees actual ing they want client feedback as soon as they are done, right on clients. the spot.”

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The client communication Dr. Paul DeMars helped develop OSU’s course in communicating. skills training program has been “A veterinarian’s communication part of the required curriculum skills are vital to their success,” for the last seven years at OSU’s he says.

Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

“A veterinarian’s communication skills are vital to their success,” adds DeMars. “Their knowledge and skills cannot be used unless they first gather accurate information from the animal’s caretaker about what has been happening. Then, after considering this information along with the physical exam and other diagnostic information, the veterinarian has to effectively communicate their diagnosis, prognosis and treatment recommendations to the caretaker so that the animal can receive the necessary care.

“We know from several studies on compliance that the percentage of clients who actually follow the veterinarian’s advice, their communication skills have more to do with treatment success and client satisfaction than their medical skills. Here at Oklahoma State University, we are committed to producing veterinarians who excel both in their communication and medical skills.”

COLLEGE OF VETERINARY HEALTH SCIENCES

PLANS FOR NEW ACADEMIC CENTER For more than 60 years, the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences (CVHS) has improved the lives of animals and people through education, research and communityimpact with a new Academic Center complete with clinical

will function as a recruiting and retention tool in addition to facilitating collaboration between faculty, students and business professionals.

Private donations are vital for the multi-purpose auditorium to become a reality. The new facility will be equipped with video capture technology, providing a modern atmosphere for learning that connects the classroom with alumni, veterinary medicine professionals, distance learners and guest lecturers.

Your gifts will help to create a facility that will educate future veterinarians, ensuring that the CVHS continues its legacy of nurturing and protecting the fundamental connection between humans and animals.

For more information about how you can enhance the lives of animals and the people who serve them, please contact the OSU Foundation at 800.622.4678, by email at info@OSUgiving.com or visit OSUgiving.com.

a fu n g u s a m o n g u s

Tackling a fungal disease OSU research could help ‘many dogs and cats live a long, healthy life’

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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An OSU educator could have a profound impact on diagnosing and treating a fungal disease, which has become pervasive in Oklahoma.

Andrew Hanzlicek, DVM, M.S., diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine in small-animal internal medicine, is an assistant professor of small animal internal medicine at OSU’s Veterinary Hospital. His research on histoplasmosis — a fungal disease endemic in Oklahoma — may change the way the disease is diagnosed and treated. continues

Dr. Andrew Hanzlicek

examines Midget, owned by Lois Crain of Ringling, Okla., with Dr. Jennifer Chang, a resident in small-animal internal medicine.

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a fu n g u s a m o n g u s

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Histoplasma capsulatum, a soil-borne fungus, is found in temperate and subtropical regions throughout the world. In the U.S., histoplasmosis appears in the Ohio, Missouri and Mississippi river valleys as well as in Oklahoma. The disease is a common systemic fungal infection of many dogs and cats in Oklahoma and occurs when microconidia — the mycelial form of Histoplasma sp. found most abundantly in nitrogen-rich soil — is inhaled or sometimes ingested.

“Fungal culture has the disadvantages of lacking sensitivity, requiring specialized laboratories and having a slow turnaround time (weeks).”

“Right now, the test is used to monitor treatment in humans.

We don’t have data on animals, and that’s why we are doing the study,” says Hanzlicek. “When you Currently, Hanzlicek uses a test positive for histoplasmosis, test from MiraVista Diagnostics the test readout gives you a numin Indianapolis. The test can be ber. For example, it could be 8.2. performed on body fluids of the You treat the person and then retest. The result has to be below a potentially infected animal. certain number before you stop “We can use urine samples, treatment.

If you stop antifunblood samples or fluid from a gal therapy too soon, the infeclung wash,” explains Hanzlicek. tion could return.

If the test result “If a protein from the cell wall is decreases with treatment like we in the sample, the dog or cat will “I saw this disease when I test positive for histoplasmosis.” expect, it should work the same for animals as it does for humans.” worked at Texas A&M UniverHanzlicek started a clinical sity and at Kansas State Uni- trial in June 2012 to determine He has applied for grant versity, but I was surprised at how treatment with antifungal money to cover the research and how frequently we see it here at therapy affects the antigen test. hopes to have 20 dogs and 20 OSU’s Veterinary Hospital,” says cats known to be infected with “From previous information in Hanzlicek. “Because of its small histoplasmosis in the program. over 70 dogs and 30 cats, we are size, the microconidia can pene“We will monitor how the anticonvinced this test is accurate, trate deeply into the lungs when gen test changes during treatand in some cases, this test has inhaled. Histoplasmosis is a disment, which will help us decide changed the way we diagnose ease that can affect the respiraif we can use the test to monithe disease,” he says. “Before tory system, the gastrointestinal tor treatment.

I anticipate it will this test, we diagnosed histotract or the skin in cats and take 12 to 18 months to gather plasmosis based on clinical signs dogs. Sometimes it affects the the data,” he says. and finding the fungus through bone marrow, eyes, the brain — “If we can diagnose histoplasinvasive tissue biopsy or needle it can go virtually anywhere in mosis early on and if we treat aspirate procedures. Now it may the body.” for the appropriate amount of be as easy as submitting a urine Common clinical signs include or blood sample. Next, we need time, the animals have a pretty lethargy, weight loss, anorexia to find out if it can also be used good chance of making it. This and fever unresponsive to antibi- to monitor or guide antifungal isn’t an end-of-life disease. It otics. An infected animal — espe- therapy. affects young, otherwise healthy cially a dog — may have diarrhea. dogs and cats. If we can diagnose it with a simple fluid test Traditionally, the diagnosis and monitor treatment without of histoplasmosis is made from invasive procedures, we have a clinical signs and finding fungal better chance of helping many organisms from affected tissue dogs and cats live a long, healthy or fluid samples and, in some life.” cases, a fungal culture.

— Derinda Blakeney

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L u n db e r g - K i e n l e n L e c t u r e s h i p i n B i o m e d i c a l R e s e a r c h

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Boston professor takes the stage at OSU The Third Annual Lundberg-Kienlen Lectureship in Biomedical Research featured Joseph P. Mizgerd, Sc.D., professor of medicine, microbiology and biochemistry, and director of the Pulmonary Center at Boston University School of Medicine.

Presenting “Mechanisms of Lung Innate Immunity During Infection,” Mizgerd emphasized the importance of lung disease research, including the discrepancy between disease burden and the level of funding.

Joseph Mizgerd focused

Recognized internationally for his contributions to respiratory infections and pneumonia, Mizgerd’s research focuses on various cells and receptors in the lung and the correlation to lung infection or lung injury.

The lectureship is supported by the Lundberg-Kienlen Endowment, the Office of Research and Graduate Education and the Department of Physiological Sciences. Lin Liu, Ph.D., Regents Professor and the Lundberg-Kienlen Professorship in Biomedical Research, hosts the annual seminar.

on the importance of research into lung disease during his presentation of “Mechanisms of Lung

Innate Immunity During Infection.”

From left: Dr. Joseph Mizgerd, OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Dean Jean Sander and

Dr. Lin Liu

During his visit, Mizgerd also met with several veterinary center multidisciplinary research groups including the adult stem cell focus group and the respiratory and infectious disease group, providing valuable input on their research.

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i t ’ s a s m a ll w o r ld

Linking life around the world Gary Lawson / University Marketing

One Health Conference brings global initiative to Oklahoma

Dr. C. Ben Beard of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention spoke on Lyme disease and similar illnesses at the

One Health Conference.

More than 370 health professionals gathered at the Tulsa Convention Center for Oklahoma’s first One Health Confere nce . Co-hosted by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, One Health Kansas at Kansas State University and Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, this groundbreaking seminar brought together physicians, veterinarians, nurses, veterinary technicians and other professionals.

National and global One Health education initiatives recognize that human health, animal health and ecosystem health are intricately linked. Humans share disease risks with wildlife, livestock and pets. The goal of One Health is to collaboratively work to improve the lives of all species worldwide.

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Focusing on tick-borne diseases and rabies, the speakers presented information on rickettsial diseases in humans and animals, Lyme disease and Lyme disease-like illnesses, bartonellosis, rabies prevention and more.

“There is a need for One Health,” says Ewing. “Broad training of specialists is essential. I propose that physician students and veterinary students take a common course during their studies. I hope to live to see the day when we make one medicine a reality.”

According to Dr. Laura Kahn, more than 75 percent of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic — able to spread from animals to humans.

“In order to effectively treat zoonotic diseases, physicians must be able to clearly identify which disease the patient has,” warns Paddock. “Species-specific diagnoses are needed to determine which antibiotic will work best.”

Conference attendees were treated to a special luncheon presentation from Dr. Sidney Ewing, OSU veterinary center Emeritus Professor and OSU Eminent Faculty Award recipient. Dubbed by fellow presenter Dr. Christopher Paddock as a “rickettsial rock star,” Ewing said nations need a cadre of physicians and veterinarians who know how these diseases work.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Drs. Linda Salinas (from left), Kristy Bradley, Laura Kahn, Susan Little, Christopher Paddock and Cathleen Hanlon were among the presenters at Oklahoma’s first One Health Conference in Tulsa.

“Prevention all year against fleas and ticks is recommended,” says Dr. Susan Little, another presenter at the conference.

“The 2011-2012 Oklahoma winter was so mild that ticks are out early and in abundance. One of the best things owners can do for their pets is use preventive medicine all year long to help keep them healthy and disease free.”

“With more than 7 billion people on the planet, the need for One Health is now,” says conference organizer Carolynn MacAllister, DVM, associate professor and director of continuing education at OSU’s veterinary center.

“International travel facilitates the quick and wide spread of diseases. An organism can move faster than its incubation period, which threatens humans and animals.”

Throughout the conference, several experts on infectious diseases of people and animals commented on the important role of veterinarians in protecting the health of people as well as pets.

“Quality tick control on dogs is a key part of limiting the risk of tick bites to people,” says Little. “We know that routine veterinary care improves both animal and human health, and we have the expertise, ability, and tools to make this work. We just need more pet owners to understand the importance of preventive care for the health of every member of the family — pets and people.”

One Health Conference Presenters Dr. C. Ben Beard, chief, bacterial diseases branch, division of vector-borne diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Dr. Kristy Bradley, state epidemiologist, Oklahoma Department of Health Dr. Cathleen Hanlon, director of the Kansas State University Rabies Laboratory Dr. Laura Kahn, research scholar, science and global security, Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University Dr. Susan Little, Regents Professor, Krull-Ewing Chair in veterinary parasitology, OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, and director, National Center for Veterinary Parasitology Dr. Christopher Paddock, infectious disease pathologist and rickettsiologist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Dr. Linda Salinas, associate professor of infectious disease, Health Sciences Center, University of Oklahoma

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Vets must join global health fight, professor says Without early detection, diseases can spread from animals to humans

“If we can keep the livestock Guy Palmer, DVM, Ph.D., keynote speaker at the 2011 in these countries healthy, the Fall Veterinary Conference , people will be healthier, too,” he presented “The Challenge for adds. “Whether a family is conVeterinary Medicine in Global suming the meat from an animal Health” during the Class of 1963 or selling the animals’ milk and using the money to buy mediDistinguished Lectureship. cines or provide education for Global health is a field of study, their children, they will enjoy a research and practice that pribetter quality of life. oritizes equity in health of peo“Veterinarians are absolutely ple, Palmer says. Global health involves all of the health sciences, required to make global health including veterinary medicine, work.” and emphasizes international The Class of 1963 established health issues, determinants and an endowment in 2005 to prosolutions. vide prominent lecturers on The emergence of new zoo- campus to provide national notic diseases affects global visibility for OSU’s veterinary health; recent examples include program and enhance the conthe H5N1 avian influenza and ference experience for veterinary Nipah virus. Emerging diseases students, faculty and alumni often spread extensively before attendees. Speakers are selected they’re first detected in coun- from nationally and internationtries with well-developed diag- ally known experts in their fields. nostic systems.

Palmer is the Regents Profes“There is an acute need for better global surveillance for animal and zoonotic diseases. We need to have on-site capacity, the resources for international standardization and validation of testing,” explains Palmer. “Early detection and rapid response to emerging diseases requires an infrastructure of veterinary systems.”

“Veterinarians a r e a b s o lu t e ly r e q u i r e d to m a k e g lo b a l h e a lt h wo r k .”

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Dr. Guy Palmer of Washington State University and OSU’s Dr. Jean Sander, dean of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, at the 2011 Fall Veterinary Conference.

Palmer leads several projects dealing with livestock health and zoonotic diseases in Kenya and Tanzania in east Africa. He notes that livestock is a source of food, labor, fertilizer and wealth for more than 70 percent of the world’s poor. In these populations, animal diseases have a disproportionately negative impact on the well-being of individuals, their families and their communities.

sor of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, holds the Jan and Jack Creighton Endowed Chair in Global Health and is the director of the Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health at Washington State University. A member of the National Academy of Science, he currently serves as an adviser to the International Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Northwest Regional Center for Excellence in Infectious Diseases.

sitlington lecture in toxicology

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Donald Fox shared his recent research findings on the effects of lead exposure on the retina.

Sitlington Lecture features visual system expert The 12th Annual Sitlington Lecture in Toxicology featured University of Houston professor Donald Fox, Ph.D., who shared his most recent research findings regarding the effects of low levels of lead exposure at different critical developmental stages on the retina.

Fox is a professor in the college of optometry at the University of Houston and holds joint appointments in biology and biochemistry, pharmacology and pharmaceutics, and health and human performance departments. He is also a distinguished ARVO (Association for Research in Vision and OphthalCarey Pope, Ph.D., hosted mology) fellow. the lecture on “Altered RegulaWith at least 100,000 chemition of Cell Cycle and Cell Fate Specification Increases Retinal cals in commerce today, approxiProgenitor Cell Proliferation mately 1,000 are neurotoxicants. and Neurogenesis during Ges- Of those, 200 are demonstrated tational Lead Exposure.” The human neurotoxicants, and five presentation was made simulta- have been identified as neuroneously to faculty, staff and stu- toxic to developing humans. The dents at OSU’s veterinary center vulnerability and phenotype of and at the University of Okla- developing nervous systems following exposure to many envihoma College of Pharmacy. ronmental toxins is virtually unknown.

Of concern to Fox, whose research focuses on chemical effects in the retina, is the fact that low levels of lead exposure below the level identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been found to have irreversible effects on the retina in children. He cautioned that children exposed to a low level of lead during pregnancy should be followed and examined for possible visual defects and retinal degeneration as they age.

Fo x e a r n e d a b a c h e l o r ’s degree in chemistry from Miami University and a doctorate from the University of Cincinnati Medical Center on a National Institutes of Health predoctoral fellowship.

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Class of 2012

College graduates largest class

by Derinda Blakeney

Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2012

With 85 students, the Class of 2012 is the largest class to graduate from OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine since it opened its doors 64 years ago in 1948. On hand were some special guests to hood those near and dear to their hearts. Here are their stories:

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Derinda Blakeney / cvhs

Jessica Abbey and her uncle Jessica Abbey of Tulsa, Okla., is the daughter of Mike and Jennifer Abbey of Tulsa. Jessica was hooded by her uncle, Dr. Chris Kelley, a 1997 OSU veterinary graduate.

Genesee Photo Systems

“I didn’t decide to become a veterinarian because my uncle was one, but his career choice definitely had an impact on me,” says Abbey. “I have always looked up to my uncle. When I was younger, I would call him and ask him animal questions. I remember him having to leave family functions or answer his phone for emergencies. I feel like he gave me a true understanding of what it means to be a veterinarian.”

Kelley owns and operates SAHO Owasso Animal Hospital and SAHO Skiatook Animal Hospital.

“I loved the summers and breaks when Jessica would come work with us,” recalls Kelley.

“The best memory was assisting her with her first full spay on her own dog. It was great to see her do that. Jessica is intelligent, responsible and compassionate. She would have been successful in any profession, and I am glad she chose ours. I am very proud of her and looking forward to the day I get to call and ask her advice on a patient.”

Following graduation, Abbey plans to practice at a small-animal hospital in Tulsa.

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Class of 21012

Derinda Blakeney / cvhs

Matthew Barker and his dad Matthew Barker of Yukon, Okla., is the son of Dr. L.D. and Alta Barker of Yukon. In the fall of 2008, L.D. Barker, who received his DVM at OSU in 1965, put a white coat on his youngest son, Matthew, as he entered the veterinary college.

On May 5, he had the honor of hooding Matthew as he earned his DVM degree.

“I am real proud of Matt for having accomplished this goal while serving in the U.S. Marine Reserves as well as raising and caring for a family,” his father says. “He was delayed a year in reaching this goal when his Marine unit was deployed to Iraq. I am excited and proud to have two sons who chose veterinary medicine as their profession — and both at my alma mater.”

Following graduation, the youngest Dr. Barker will join his father and brother, Mark According to his father, Matt Barker, a 2005 OSU DVM grad- Barker’s strengths are his calm uate, at the family’s mixed- temperament, his concern for animal veterinary practice, people and his passion for Professional Animal Health in animals.

Newcastle, Okla.

“Matt enjoys working with “My main interest is food-ani- and caring for livestock and mal medicine but I will be doing has the innate skills to do so,” any large-animal or small-ani- adds his father. mal cases or whatever is needed With both sons working at of me,” Matt Barker says. “I am Professional Animal Health, ready to start my career, contrib- is the senior Barker thinking ute to the clinic and help to grow about retiring? it. It has been a long four years “Retirement is not currently but well worth it.” in my plans,” he says. “There is

and work with Mark as he grew as a veterinarian in the knowledge of practice, the development of the essential skills in large-animal practice, and to take our practice to a higher level of service. I want to be a part of and to experience that with Matt as well.”

Being the first one in his family to earn a college degree, L.D. Barker says he feels very blessed that all three of his sons have earned degrees of higher education. His wife, Alta, agrees.

“Brad, our oldest, is a West Point graduate and a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army,” L.D. Barker says. “Mark and now Matt have earned their DVM degrees. Veterinary medicine has been a very rewarding profession for me. I am glad to have the opportunity to be of service in it and to have provided for a family from it. Alta and I are very proud.”

Matthew Barker is ready to still much to do and to learn in carry on the family tradition food-animal medicine, especially in disease prevention. It and has begun seeing clients has been a real joy to watch at Professional Animal Health.

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Kelli McMahan of Whitehouse, Texas, was hooded by her fiancé, Dr. Nick Johnson, an OSU 2011 veterinary graduate. McMahan is the daughter of Larry and Jo McMahan of Tyler, Texas.

“I am proud of Kelli and how hard she worked to get where she is,” says Johnson. “I’m very lucky to have found someone as wonderful as her.”

Johnson has spent the past year working as an associate veterinarian at Pawnee Veterinary Hospital. The mixed-animal practice (60 percent large animal and 40 percent small animal) serves Pawnee County and parts of Osage, Noble and Payne counties.

After graduation, McMahan is joining Hecht Veterinary Clinic in Tulsa.

Derinda Blakeney / cvhs

Derinda Blakeney / cvhs

Kellie McMahan and her fiancé

Lindsey Woods and her stepfather Lindsey Woods of Fort Smith, Ark., Woods spent three summers workis the daughter of Jerry and Steph- ing at Burd’s small-animal clinic in anie Woods of Hackett, Ark., and Fort Smith.

Ray and Jan Burd of Lavaca, Ark. “I tried to challenge Lindsey to Dr. Ray Burd, Woods’ stepfather who always look at the big picture whether received his DVM from OSU in 1969, it was a medical case, surgery or life placed her hood on during the cere- in general,” Burd says. “I worried mony. “I know I have been only a small about the boss’s-daughter syndrome part of Lindsey’s dream of becoming a but due to her strength of character, veterinarian and in choosing OSU for her hard work and cheerfulness, Lindsey undergrad and veterinary degrees, and I was soon a favorite of the doctors am very honored to be the one to place and staff. She will be an outstanding that hood on her,” says Ray Burd. veterinarian.”

Woods knew from a very young age “I enjoy extrapolating information I that she wanted to be a veterinarian. have learned about common or domes“When my mom started dating a veterinarian, he encouraged me but wouldn’t let me work at his clinic until I was at least 16,” recalls Woods. “His philosophy is that exposing a ‘youngster’ to some things too early might turn them away from veterinary medicine. So all through junior high school, I volunteered at the Humane Society as a dog walker and cat sitter. Finally when I started high school, I was allowed to start working at the Rogers Avenue Animal Clinic. Even though my first job was sweeping the parking lot and being a kennel tech, I was convinced that I wanted to be a veterinarian.”

tic species and applying it to exotic and zoo species, which we know very little about,” says Woods. “I hope to work in a small-animal and/or exotics private practice for a year or two and then seek an internship position in a zoo.”

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Class of 2012

Derinda Blakeney / cvhs

Bridget Wagnon and her husband As for dating or getting married while earnBridget Wagnon of Oklahoma City is the daughter of Lorraine and David Ellis of Pur- ing your veterinary degree, Dan Wagnon has some advice. cell, Okla.

“Marriage is tough, and so is vet school,” he says.

Wagnon knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. While earning her “Our profession takes up a lot of our time. It’s imporbachelor’s degree at OSU, she worked on the tant to make time for each other. You must learn barn crew at OSU’s Boren Veterinary Medi- to step away from medicine and just be a regucal Teaching Hospital, where she met Daniel lar person every once in a while. If you do, you Wagnon. A year ahead of her, Wagnon also had can look forward to having a spouse who will his sights set on veterinary college. He earned understand your situation more than almost his DVM degree from OSU in 2011 and is return- any other person, someone who will be there for help with studying for tests, to help treat ing to hood his wife.

“I am very happy for my wife and her accom- patients on emergency calls on a Sunday afterplishment,” says Dan Wagnon. “Having known noon. It makes for plenty of opportunities to her through it all — undergraduate, applying, bond with each other and help each other grow. getting to be there when the ‘big’ letter finally And it makes for some very ‘interesting’ dinner came saying she was accepted, and knowing conversation as well.”

Following graduation, Bridget Wagnon just how much it means to her to be a veterinarian — I couldn’t be more happy for her. I joined Deercreek Animal Hospital in Harrah, Okla. Her husband works at Veterinary Corknow she’ll be a fine veterinarian.”

Bridget Wagnon has fond memories of the ner, a four-doctor mixed-animal practice. In the long term, the Wagnons look forward to last four years. starting a family together and perhaps one day “I liked the field trips that the small ruminant owning a veterinary practice together. club took with Dr. Katie Simpson to the alpaca farm,” she recalls. “I would suggest that students who are thinking about veterinary college find a veterinarian to work for or volunteer for to make sure they enjoy the work and also to gain experience. Stay focused and be persistent, and all your effort will be worth it in the end.”

gary lawson / university marketing

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transition ceremony

Moving ahead The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences held a transition ceremony for the Class of 2013 (below) at the Stillwater Community Center. The tradition, which began seven years ago, marks the start of clinical rotations, signifying the next step forward for third-year veterinary students.

Holly Slater receives her white coat from Dr. Larry Stein, interim head of the Department of Physiological Sciences, during the spring ceremony.

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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2 0 1 6 S tat s

CLASS OF

BY THE

2016 NUMBERS

Welcome to the Class of 2016. Of its 82 students: 65 are female and 17 male. Of the group, 58 are Oklahoma residents and 24 come from other states. The core and cumulative grade point averages for these students are 3.533 and 3.579 respectively.

Their average grade GRE scores are 153 verbal, 150 quantitative and 4.0 analytical.

If the verbal and quantitative scores look low, it’s because the GRE General Test has been revised. The new format reports scores on a 130–170 scale in onepoint increments. The analytical writing scores continue to be scored on the same 0–6 scale in half-point increments.

To be eligible for the EAP, seniors in high school must have an ACT score of 28 or higher and be enrolled in a comprehensive university in the state of Oklahoma. Students can be admitted to the program during the freshman year of their undergraduate education.

Early Admit Scholars must maintain a 3.5 GPA each semeste r w h i l e co m p l e t i n g t h e i r bachelor’s degree and the preveterinary course requirements.

During this time, students are teamed with veterinary college faculty to provide guidance and mentorship. Drs. Robert Bahr, Todd Holbrook, Tim Snider and Lara Sypniewski are mentors for these students. These veterinarians took extra time with these students and we applaud their dedication to the future of veterinary medicine.

This is the third class that includes Early Admit Program (EAP) students. Of the eight, five are residents and three are nonresidents. The EAP strives to aid EAP students in the Class of students with strong academic ability, who are committed to a 2016 had an average core GPA rigorous academic program in of 3.74 and an average cumulatheir veterinary medical career tive GPA of 3.85. development.

The incoming Class of 2016 at Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences spent two days in the Colvin Annex participating in a new orientation program. The Cowboy VET (Veterinary Education and Team building) program focuses on leadership, selfawareness and communication concepts to give the class tools they need to be successful veterinary students.

OUR ACADEMICS

3.533 average core GPA

153 average GRE verbal score*

3.579 average cumulative GPA

4.0 average GRE analytical writing score* 82

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150 average GRE quantitative score* *Revised GRE General Test now reports verbal and quantitative scores on a 130–170 scale in one-point increments. Analytical writing score scale is unchanged.

OUR YOUNG ’UNS (Early Admit Program students)

6 women 7 total students

5 Oklahoma residents 2 from elsewhere in the U.S.

1 man 3.74 average core GPA 3.85 average cumulative GPA

WHERE WE’RE FROM

WHO WE ARE 65 women 17 men

58 Oklahoma residents

82 total students 24 from elsewhere in the U.S.

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OSU fields team at national bovine palpation contest For the first time since 2004, the OSU Student Chapter of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners rounded up a team to compete in the Bovine Palpation Competition at the Student American Veterinary Medical Association Symposium.

“In order to be selected for the team, students are required to be members of the student chapter of the AABP,” says Reppert. “They had to demonstrate outstanding knowledge of bovine reproduction via a written examination. The members have undergone rigorous training, including in-depth weekly The OSU 2012 Bovine Palpaclasses on subjects relevant to tion Team coached by Dr. Emily the study of bovine theriogenolReppert and assisted by Dr. ogy, such as control of the bovine Suzanne Genova, consists of estrous cycle, causes of infersix veterinary students — four tility, advanced reproductive competitors (Jason Anton, techniques and obstetrics.

In Class of 2015; Ben Estes, 2013; addition, students are required Eric Harms, 2013; and Hannah Wadsworth, 2013) and two to attend weekly laboratory sesalternates (J.D. Folsom, 2015; sions in order to develop their and Holt Tripp, 2015). All six palpation skills.” made the trip to the competition “I enjoyed being part of the at Purdue University. palpation team as it allowed me “I joined the team because I am to earn valuable knowledge not interested in working with cat- only in palpation but in all differtle, especially cow/calf opera- ent aspects of reproduction that tions,” says Harms. “I wanted to will be of good use in my future learn about artificially insemi- career,” says Estes. “It was also nating cows. This competition important to me that OSU, one was a great way for me to prac- of the top food-animal schools in tice and gain some skill at pal- the country, was represented on a national level.” pating before I graduate.”

The team aims to provide veterinary students who have demonstrated a strong interest in food-animal medicine and bovine reproduction a venue to further develop their skills in bovine palpation while preparing to participate in the national competition.

“I believe that it is absolutely necessary to be proficient in palpation when working in large-animal veterinary medicine,” says Anton. “The OSU palpation team has provided an opportunity for me to strengthen my palpation skills and has improved my understanding of the veterinarian’s role in bovine reproduction.”

The OSU team placed fourth in the national competition.

Team members are grateful to their two coaches and others who helped them train for several months — Dr. Reed Holyoak, veterinary clinical sciences professor and diplomate in the American College of Theriogenologists; Dennis Wilbourn, Veterinary Medicine Ranch manager; and Alan Jennings, local dairy breeder. Two OSU alumni, Dr. Bruss Horn (1980) and Dr. Denis Matousek (1981), provided financial support that made this program possible.

“I have had an interest in bovine reproduction for several years,” says Wadsworth. “For me, the palpation team was an opportunity to delve deeper into the field and to apply the knowledge I had obtained from the third-year theriogenology course. The three months of preparation for the competition was arduous, and the competition itself was very challenging. My participation in the competition has allowed me to become more confident with my palpation skills and has prepared me for practicing better bovine medicine in the future.”

— Derinda Blakeney

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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Members of the OSU 2012 Bovine Palpation Team traveled to Purdue University in Lafayette, Ind., for the national Bovine Palpation Competition. The team includes (from left) Hannah Wadsworth, Eric Harms, J.D. Folsom, Ben Estes, Holt M. Tripp and Jason Anton, along with coaches Dr. Suzanne Genova and Dr. Emily Reppert.

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noteworthy

Newly commissioned veterinary student Photo Provided

College helps tornado victims In April 2012, a severe tornado blew through Woodward, Okla., killing six people and damaging or destroying 224 homes and businesses.

Two veterinary students, Tyla Barkley (Class of 2012) and Kami Jensen (Class of 2014), were safe at school in Stillwater but wanted to help their hometown. The two sent out a plea to the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences family for help — and boy, did they respond.

From left are Dr. Ken Bartels, a retired U.S. Army colonel, newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Candace Wimbish and Sgt. 1st Class Lindsay Dally, an Army health care recruiter.

Candace Wimbish of Denton, Texas, a veterinary student at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, was commissioned on April 27 as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Performing the ceremony was retired Col. Ken Bartels, who holds the McCasland Professorship in Biomedical Laser Surgery and Kerr Foundation Endowed Chair in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the veterinary center.

“We raised $1,026 in cash and gift cards from a bake sale and donations,” says Barkley. “We also donated 1,200 pounds — or $2,500 worth — of Hill’s Science Diet pet food.”

Wimbish joins the Army on a two-year health services professional scholarship. Following her graduation in 2014, she will serve three years’ active duty in the military.

She graduated from Denton High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating magna cum laude. She is the daughter of Sandra Parker of Denton and married to Patrick Wimbish, a petty officer first class with the Navy Reserve.

“It was great to see the kindness shown to our hometown and its citizens,” says Jensen. “Words cannot express how awesome it feels to be a part of such a caring CVHS family. The cleanup process is coming along rapidly with the support of volunteers. Survivors still have a long road to haul but with such generosity expressed from so many individuals, the healing process will come soon.”

Oklahoma State veterinary students Kami Jensen (Class of 2014, left) and Tyla Barkley (’12) deliver two carloads of donations, in addition to cash and gift cards, after a tornado struck their hometown of Woodward, Okla., in April. Since her graduation in May, Dr. Barkley is pursuing a career in a mixed-animal practice in central Oklahoma.

Photo provided

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s t e pp i n g up

Paying it forward Injured dog reaps the benefit of a veterinary student stepping up to ‘return’ a favor

It started when a veterinary student rescued a boxer who had been wounded in a dog fight and neglected by her owners. The student found a new home for this dog, but she could not afford the shipping expenses nor to deliver the dog herself. A truck driver stepped forward to provide a free ride from Oklahoma to Massachusetts to deliver the boxer to her new family. In return, that same veterinary student, who wishes to remain anonymous, stepped forward in 2011 to help someone else in need, Katy Ashcraft.

Ashcraft is a Northern Oklahoma College student from Welty, Okla., who plans to major in agricultural communications at OSU. She saw something lying alongside the road while driving. Stopping, she discovered a small dog covered with grime in a mud puddle.

Each case at the veterinary hospital is assigned to a fourthyear veterinary student, an intern or resident and a faculty member. Ashcraft and the dog, named Toby, were seen by student Sharon Uluh, a Ross University student completing her clinical training at OSU. Uluh “I took him home,” says Ash- took Toby’s history, examined craft. “I noticed he had some- him and discussed the dog’s conthing wrong with his eye. I had dition and treatment options. toured OSU’s veterinary hospiNext, Dr. Lara Sypniewski, tal when I was younger and was community practice veterinarfascinated with it. I thought it ian and the clinical assistant would be convenient to take him professor on the case, assessed there since I go to school there.” Toby’s condition. continues Phil Shockley / University Marketing

Dr. Lara Sypniewski (right) and fourth-year student Sharon Uluh (left) are treating Katy Ashcraft’s dog, Toby, a shih tzu mix who had suffered a ruptured eye.

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s t e pp i n g up

“We scanned Toby for a microchip, checked for any identification and found none,” explains Sypniewski. “He looks to be a middle-aged male shih tzu mix, covered in mud and grease from the underside of a car. He appears to be healthy except for a ruptured right eye.”

Toby received an antibiotic to help reduce the infection in and around the affected eye before surgery, as well as pain medication.

“We gently cleaned Toby’s eye and sent a topical antibacterial ointment home with Katy,” says Sypniewski. “Thanks to Toby’s Sypniewski found a hole in small stature, we were able to the center of Toby’s cornea and provide a ‘no-charge puppy pack’ the contents of the anterior por- sample of Revolution, a topition of the eye were protruding cal anti-parasitic and anti-helfrom the globe. minthic that helps to prevent “His eye was covered with dirt heartworms, fleas, ear mites, sarand debris and, of course, was coptic mange and certain types noticeably painful. This injury of ticks. It also helps to concould have been from an acute trol hookworm and roundworm injury, such as head trauma, infestations.” or the result of a progressive, S i x d ay s l a t e r, A s h c r a f t chronic corneal injury or disease,” brought Toby back for surgery. adds Sypniewski.

“The morning of Toby’s surgery, With little chance of saving I mentioned to a fourth-year his sight, Sypniewski suggested student, who would be assistremoving the painful eye and ing during the operation, that Ashcraft agreed, despite the cost. I wished I could neuter Toby “Between what was left from while he was under for his eye high school graduation gifts and surgery to avoid multiple anesincoming paychecks from my thetic events,” recalls Sypniewski. part-time job, I was able to cover “I told her I was unable to do so Toby’s surgery and medical care,” because Katy couldn’t afford any says Ashcraft. “Dr. Sypniewski extra procedures.” asked me about having him neutered while he was under anesthesia for his eye surgery, but I declined because I couldn’t afford the added cost.”

“Coming to OSU’s veterinary hospital was wonderful, ” says Ashcraft. “I loved it there. They explained everything to me and worked with me on my work and school schedules. My veterinary student gave me her number, and I called and texted her The hospital called Ashcraft. every day with different ques“I was so happy when they tions and concerns. Everyone called me and asked me about and everything deserves a sechaving Toby neutered,” says ond chance, no matter the hisAshcraft. “It was such a relief tory or condition.

Toby was in because I really wanted it done, bad shape when I found him, but the money was an issue. It and Dr. Sypniewski and the takes someone with a big heart veterinary students and hospito just donate money to a dog tal staff helped me give him a they just met. I am so very thanksecond chance.

I will always be ful to that student.” grateful.”

Toby’s surgeries were uneventAnd who knows? Maybe ful with no complications, and someday Ashcraft will have a he went home the next morning. chance to express that gratitude “What a tremendous change in by “paying it forward” for someToby,” says Ashcraft. “He went one else in need. from being a withdrawn, quiet — Derinda Blakeney dog to an excited, happy little guy. He is never in a bad mood, OSU’s Boren Veterinary Medical and he’s just an awesome dog!”

“When I heard that, I knew it was time to ‘repay a favor,’ and I told Dr. Sypniewski that I would be glad to pay for Toby’s neuter, and I wanted to remain anonymous,” the fourth-year student says.

Ten days following surgery, Toby returned to the veterinary hospital for suture removal. “The surgical site healed nicely, and his sutures were removed without incident,” reports Sypniewski.

“ W h at a t r e m e n d o u s c h a n g e i n To by.

H e w e n t f r o m b e i n g a w i t h d r aw n , q u i e t d o g to a n e xc i t e d, h a pp y l i t t l e g u y. H e i s n e v e r i n a b a d m o o d, a n d h e ’ s ju s t a n aw e s o m e d o g ! ”

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Teaching Hospital is open to the public, providing routine and specialized care for small and large animals. It also offers 24-hour emergency care and is certified by the American Animal Hospital Association.

g e n e r o s i t y i n a bu n d a n c e

The cat’s meow Feline who was treated well years ago spurs 2 sisters to leave OSU $3.2 million

The many people who will benefit from the estate gift totaling $3.2 million (the largest given to the veterinary center to date) will never have the opportunity to meet the two sisters behind this donation — Luella Curtis of Canton, Okla., and Leora Calkins of Tonkawa, Okla. But someone at Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences did meet Luella Curtis, and the treatment that veterinary clinician provided to Luella and her pet is the reason behind part of the gift.

“Luella lived next door to us, 3-4 miles away, as long as I can remember,” says Ralph Chain, one of the executors of the Curtis estate. “My family has been on the same property for 120 years.

Back in the day, Luella was the one who would come by and collect the telephone bill. My son, Monte Chain, would take his children to Luella’s on Halloween trick-or-treating. She had some cattle and pretty much went about her business quietly.

She sure was grateful that OSU veterinarians saved her cat.”

Curtis and her husband Butch, who passed away before she did, didn’t have any children but she loved animals. She had a pet parakeet and a cat. When her beloved cat became ill some 20 years ago, she brought it to OSU’s veterinary hospital for treatment. The compassionate care extended to her cat so impressed Curtis that she and her husband decided to leave the majority of their estate to the veterinary center.

When it came time to put her affairs in order, Calkins consulted with her financial adviser.

Not only did they share a business relationship but over the years, they became dear friends.

Photo provided

It is said that Leora was a very humble person. Very few people knew she was wealthy. The money was never a factor to her.

She was a frugal woman, always to the point. You knew where she stood on things. She never married and didn’t have children.

Her cats were her family, and like so many animal lovers, she adored them.

It was the wishes of both sisters that the majority of their estates be left to further the education of many at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

Luella had cattle as well as her pets and knew firsthand the importance of veterinarians in Oklahoma. Leora’s love for animals was great, and she knew that veterinarians shared that same wonderful love for animals large and small.

Leora Calkins

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Photo provided

Luella and Butch Curtis

“This is a phenomenal gift,” adds Amanda Davis, senior director of development. “The number of lives that will truly be touched by Luella’s and Leora’s generosity is countless. Not only “The amount of each award will the students receiving the and the number of awards given scholarships benefit but so will each year will be determined by the patients they treat down the the awards selection commit- road thanks to their education — tee,” explains Christopher Ross, an education that is made possiDVM, associate dean for aca- ble in part by this gift.” demic affairs. “The debt load Once Leora made her plans veterinary students face upon known she was asked if she would graduation is staggering, and we like to meet Pistol Pete and give are very appreciative of donors OSU an opportunity to thank her who make it possible for us to in person for her generosity. She reduce that burden. We expect refused, saying she didn’t want the annual income from this gift any recognition; she was just to expand our scholarship offer- glad to pass the money on. She ings by about 50 percent, which had everything she needed. She is a huge increase.” felt blessed that she could further someone’s education so they could in turn help animals.

So thanks to the care provided by an OSU veterinary clinician and the generosity of these two sisters, the estate gift endowment will provide funds for student scholarships for years to come.

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The first scholarships from the Luella Ruth and Butch Curtis Educational Fund will be awarded in the spring of 2013 — the first of many scholarships, thanks to Luella and Leora.

— Derinda Blakeney

“ T h e n umb e r o f l i v e s t h at w i ll t r uly b e to uc h e d

by L u e ll a’ s a n d L e o r a’ s g e n e r o s i t y i s c o u n t l e s s .”

d e v e l o pm e n t

Message from the Development Office Greetings: Since becoming the CVHS’s development director last year, I have had the privilege of meeting many of our alumni and donors while getting to know the important work done here. Each day, I am grateful to be part of this very special place. From the compassionate care provided by the Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital and the education of some of the country’s best veterinarians to the research that affects our animal friends, our national security, and in many cases our own health, it is easy to see the impact of the CVHS everywhere you look.

Under the leadership of Dean Jean Sander, we are expanding our development programming and the level of service we provide to our supporters. This issue marks the first phase of that effort with the 20112012 Donor List. We are also preparing to roll out an initiative called the Orange Sock Society to thank donors who have supported the CVHS for five or more years consecutively. The name comes from a tradition begun by former dean Dr. Michael Lorenz, who created the Loyal and True Order of Orange Socks. Induction into the society is given in recognition of service to the CVHS. The loyalty of individuals who support the center in the long term is an inspiration. The benefit comes not only from the impact of the financial gifts they make, but also from the statement their consistent support makes. We have created the Orange Sock Society as a way of recognizing that our consistent supporters are part of us. On their fifth consecutive year of giving, donors will receive a special letter from the dean and an Orange Sock Society pin to wear at our CVHS events such as Fall Conference, the Awards Banquet and the alumni receptions at various conventions.

In addition to finding more ways to thank you, we will be offering new opportunities to support the work of the CVHS, including a new support fund for the hospital, an Academic Center facility campaign, and new programs for alumni and friends.

These are exciting times at the CVHS, and I am glad to be here supporting the faculty and staff in all they do.

If you have any questions or needs, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your support.

Amanda Davis MPA, CFRE Senior Director of Development 405-385-5607 adavis@osugiving.com

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our donors

2011–2012 Donors The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences wishes to express our gratitude to our donors and friends for your support. The following is a list of individuals and organizations that made a gift between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2012, of $250 or more. All of us thank you. * indicates membership in the Dean’s Club $1 million or more

$2,500 to $4,999

Bobby and Brenda Alexander

Dr. James and Deborah Conklin*

Leora Calkins Estate

AVMA Professional Liability Insurance Trust

Kendria and Bradley Cost

$100,000 to $999,999

Bayer Health Care

Novartis Pharma AG E.L. & Thelma Gaylord Foundation Pauline Wright Estate

$50,000 to $99,999

Cargill Inc. JMJ Technologies Inc. Joyce Doran Dr. Karen and Capt. Samuel Dowds Dr. Paul and Margaret DuBois Dr. Greg and Jana Duffy

Dr. Anton Kammerlocher

Dr. Mark and Denice Elwell*

Williams Clinic of Stillwater

Gregory Gray

$25,000 to $49,999

Dr. Keith and Bonnie Hand

Anne & Henry Zarrow Foundation

Dr. Joseph and Betty Lou Hayden

Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc.

Dr. Gerald Hegreberg and Dr. Lynetta Freeman-Hegreberg

Diane Stuart and Jon Stuart Jean Williams

$10,000 to $24,999

Catoosa Small Animal Hospital Inc. ConocoPhillips Co. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc.

Ruth Cotner Dr. R. Reynolds and Evelyn Cowles Jr.* Dr. Joe and Mary Davis* Dr. Phillip and Martha Day Dorothy C. Richardson Trust Dow Chemical Co. Foundation Thomas Duquette Dr. Norman and Jane Durham Forest Trails Animal Hospital Frazier Management Trust Dr. John Freeman Lynn and Catharina Fujii

JMJ Technologies Inc.

Jeff and Debi Hafner

Dr. Michael and Velda Lorenz*

V. Burns and Ann Hargis

James Miears

Dr. James and Lee Ann Hackworth*

Dr. Carey and Dr. Jing Pope

Halliburton Foundation Inc.

Tim and Tina Ridley*

Helen W. Ehrhart Revocable Trust

Dr. Chris Ross*

David and Grace Helmer*

Pfizer Inc.*

Dr. Michael and Dr. Jennifer Schoonover

Col. Bradford and Annette Hildabrand

Molly and D.D. Patterson

Dr. Richard and Mary Shepherd Dr. Steven and Carolyn Vonderfecht*

Kenneth and Karen Holmes

Stuart Family Foundation Travis Lumber LLC

Billy White

IBM Corp.

Bernadine Wold

Dr. Harry and Hannah James

Sandra Lee

$5,000 to $9,999

Maj. Stephanie Bounds

$1,000 to $2,499

Heritage Plaza Animal Hospital

Dr. Kenneth Huffman*

Dr. Eileen and Dr. Bill Johnson

A.W. and Gwen Foley

Alamo Pintado Equine Clinic Inc.*

Dr. John and Donna Kirkpatrick*

IDEXX Laboratories Inc.

American Association of Bovine Practitioners Foundation

Dr. Thomas and Linda Latta

Arkansas Veterinary Medical Foundation

Dr. Steven and Melissa Lucas

Michael and Rosana Mayer Vicki Palmer MSRS Revocable Trust Merkel Family Foundation

Dr. Keith Bailey*

Dr. Susan Little and Dr. Rodney Will Steven and Jana Mackey Matousek Veterinary Clinic

Norfolk Southern Foundation

Paige Eubanks-Barrow and John Barrow*

Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association

Bild Animal Hospital*

Mid-America Alpaca Foundation

Bruss Horn DVM PLLC

Midwest Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association

PetSmart Charities RH Veterinary Service PLLC

Gary and Linda Burke Cedarwood Veterinary Clinic Cherokee Hills Veterinary Clinic PC

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Jerrell and Peggy Chesney

Butch and Luella Ruth Curtis Trust

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

Melinda McAfee

Jean Miller Morris D. Covey Estate Dr. Nicholas and Dr. Dianne Nail*

Mary Kay and Roger Jennings

Victor Neal

National Livestock Credit Corp.

Dr. Cornelia Ketz-Riley and Donald Riley

Dr. John and Karen Nick

NestlĂŠ Purina PetCare Co.

Dr. Jerry and Cindy Malayer

Oakridge Equine Hospital PC

Kevin and Jo Ann Manke

Oklahoma City Obedience Training Club Inc.

Dr. James and Dr. Katrina Meinkoth

National Livestock Commission Association

Dr. Roger Panciera

Dr. Lester and Grace Naito

Boone and Madeleine Pickens

Fidelity Inv. Charitable Fund / Willard Rhynes

Jerry and Donna Pongratz

Dr. Justin Roscoe

Dr. James and Cynthia Richardson Jr.

Dr. Thomas and Jenny Sartain

Dr. William and Mary Roberson

Dr. Richard and Cynthia Shawley

Rose Rock Veterinary Hospital & Pet Resort*

Amelia Smith

Dr. Jean Sander* Steven and Christine Savage Dr. Ted Schupbach Dr. Steven and Nancy Slusher Dr. D.C. and L. Michele Smith Charles and Joyce Sullivan Textron Matching Gift Program Tulsa County Veterinary Medical Association Veterinary Ophthalmology Services Inc. Dr. John and Wynn Walker* Western Veterinary Conference

$500 to $999

Dr. Timothy and Jennifer Starks Stillwater Designs/Kicker Dr. Amy Thiessen VetPrep Dr. C. Glenn Warren Leesa and Jeffrey Wyzard

$250 to $499

Dr. Troy and Kristina Acree Dr. Paul and Carla Aldridge Dr. Carey Bachman Dr. Annette and Robert Baker Dr. Linda and James Branscum Cameo Arabians Dr. Kimberly and William Carter

John A. Baker Revocable Trust

Dr. Ross and Linda Clark

Dr. Todd and Debra Behre

Dr. Michelle Corr

Gary Bogue

Amanda Davis

Carol and Larry Brown

Dr. Frank Denney

CDX Scholarship Fund

Dr. William and Rose Edwards

Chimney Hills Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Ireta and Dr. Merlin Ekstrom

Dr. Alan and Amy Haws Coffman

Dr. Kevin Gibbs

Dr. James and Dr. Kathy Cooper Jr.

Janet and Matt Hall

Dr. Colette Crotty

Dr. Susan Harrington and Robert Fichman

Dr. Lee Denney Irma and Robert Eufinger Family Pet Hospital PLC Dr. Frederick Feibel Hughes Cattle Co. LLC Dr. Stephen Hull Jr. and Kathryn Reilly Dr. Joseph Inscoe Jr.

Dr. Joe and Ginger Noble John Richardson Dr. Richard Roth Dr. Douglas Ruby Dr. Michael and Sonia Sealock Sequoyah Fuels Corp.

Charles and Mary Ann Shields Lisa and Randy Sims Dr. Martin and Patricia Spindel Rex and Jane Stachmus Dr. Gregory and Deborah Stanbery Stillwater Furniture Showcase Rebecca Tims Kristen Vails Veterinary Associates of Jacaranda Inc. Via Luna Group Inc. Dr. Loretta Walker Dr. Stephen and Johnita Walker Cmdr. R. Dean Ward (Ret.) Sandra Ward Elaine and James White Dr. R. Gene and Donna White Patty Whitecotton LaRonna and Donald Wilbourn

Dr. Charles and Lola Heaton Nancy Henslee Fidelity Inv. Charitable Fund / Don and Mary Holmes Steven and Dorothy Labounty Dr. Lin Liu Dr. Melissa Magnotta

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It’s not all animal care for Dr. Chris DeWitt, who enjoys sailing when he’s not working at his clinic on St. Maarten in the Caribbean.

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Working in Paradise Vet takes his practice to a Caribbean island

The sun, ocean views and his own veterinary clinic on a tropical island is exactly the paradise Chris DeWitt, Class of 1991, could thrive in. While still at OSU’s veterinary college, he saw a job listing in Dr. Tom Monin’s employment book for a veterinarian in the Caribbean, and the seed was planted.

“I didn’t know which island she had traveled to, so I was pleasantly surprised when we ended up working at the same hospital,” DeWitt remembers.

“In addition to the clinic, we consult with the island government on public health issues and regulations relating to animals. We are also the veteriThe couple eventually married narians for the St. Maarten Zoo. and in 1995, the two started their Once a month, I travel to an own clinic — Animal Hospital — even smaller island, Saba, to peron Saint Maarten, a 36-square- form veterinary surgery and see mile island that’s divided into patients,” says DeWitt. “Saba is “My father was in the U.S. French and Dutch sides. They a 5-square-mile, volcanic island Army-artillery, so we lived in have two daughters, Morgan, 9, with a population of 1,500 and a Turkey and Germany when not and Madison, 11, who were both great destination for diving. We also see clients from the nearby at our home base of Fort Sill, born on the island.

Okla. I thought [the Caribbean] “It’s pretty busy for such a islands of Anguilla, St. Barthesounded like a nice, romantic small place, which is great for lemy, St. Eustatius and even from idea, and I was encouraged by business,” says DeWitt. “While St. Kitts and Nevis.”

Located on the Dutch side of a few of the students from Ross it isn’t the grass-hut clinic on University who were completing the beach with coconut palms I the island, DeWitt’s Animal Hostheir clinical training at OSU,” imagined, the weather is great, pital employs three veterinarians, recalls DeWitt. and I can see the ocean and sun- an office manager, three veterDuring his senior year while sets from both our home and our inary assistants and three kennel workers. working as a preceptor at the clinic.”

“We see a variety of cases treatBusch Gardens Zoo in WilliamsDeWitt’s Animal Hospital burg, Va., DeWitt met Teresa treats mostly small animals with ing many orthopedic and soft Kraska, a veterinary graduate some large animals, exotics and tissue surgical cases. We also perform a lot of cancer treatfrom the University of Missouri. wildlife mixed in. ments and dermatology cases Kraska soon left to take a posithat would be referred out to a tion in the Caribbean, mirroring specialist in the States.”

DeWitt’s destination at least for a year or two.

DeWitt says the biggest challenges are language and location. continues

Photo provided

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A pilot whale — one of the smaller versions of whales — has been among DeWitt’s patients.

“While most residents speak English, there is a fair amount of Spanish, Dutch and French spoken,” he says. “We have to order supplies in advance, and water and power outages do occur. We are prepared, however, with a large standby generator, and we cross our fingers during hurricane season.”

Some of the more unusual animals the clinic has treated include sea turtles, pelicans, frigate birds (tropical sea birds with powerful wings and a hooked beak) and a giraffe from a traveling circus.

DeWitt believes a DVM degree opens the world and is limited only by one’s imagination.

“ The options for teaching, industry or private practice can take you anywhere. I think this extends to specialty practice “We even treated a pilot whale, as well. In a practice, I think it which is small by whale stan- is necessary to start small but dards but a whale nonetheless,” always have a plan for growth.

DeWitt says. “The Coast Guard “As much as I enjoy life on this found him having trouble in the tropical paradise called St. Maarten, water and brought it to the clinic I really miss and appreciate Oklain a truck. We quickly shipped homa State and the College of Vethim to a marine mammal facility. erinary Medicine. As a military brat, “Our biggest case involved a Oklahoma is the state where I trip to Puerto Rico to inspect lived the longest, and I have never a group of polar bears owned met a more fun and friendly peoby the Suarez Circus. The cir- ple. Our football team may have cus made the mistake of travel- been ranked No. 2 [last season] ing to a U.S. territory with polar but the university and veterinary bears that did not conform to U.S. college are No. 1.” standards. The bears were being threatened with confiscation. We examined the animals and did not recommend importation. A week later, the polar bears were confiscated and several still reside in U.S. zoos.”

In Saint Maarten, veterinarian Chris DeWitt sees a fair share of exotic animals such as the colorful Gizmo.

Photos / Provided

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Orange all the way to the fridge San Antonio alum shows passion for OSU at his Texas vet clinic

And that isn’t the only way “Bleeding orange” is one phrase often used to describe OSU Kirlin gives back to OSU. alumni — and it certainly applies Kirlin is the Class of 1983 repto 1983 alumnus Kenneth D. resentative and attends the colKirlin, DVM, of San Antonio. lege’s annual alumni association At the Southwest Veterinary meeting. In 2006, he began servSymposium in 2004, Kirlin was ing on the association’s board sharing his ideas about fund- of directors as secretary/trearaising and connecting with out- surer. Each position term is two of-state alumni with then-Dean years. In 2008, he moved up to vice president and in 2010, he Michael Lorenz.

Dr. Lorenz invited him to stepped into the role of presserve on the Dean’s Develop- ident. His term ends in 2012, ment Associates, which began when he will serve as the immein April 2005. Kirlin accepted diate past president until 2014, and continues to serve in that then as the past president for another two years. capacity today.

open between the school and our classmates. We’re all proud of our OSU education, and I’d like to see everyone be more involved in supporting the college in whatever capacity they can. It’s not just monetary support that’s needed.

It’s helping our current and future students with employment and helping them gain valuable experience they can only see in the real world.”

And he shows his OSU Cowboy spirit in yet another way.

“When I bought my practice 16 years ago, a working 1950s GE refrigerator came with the building. We recently rebuilt the hospital and bought new appliances throughout. One of my clients owns a paint and body shop, so I asked them to paint the refrigerator OSU orange. I even gave them the registered color codes And his support doesn’t end for the right shade of orange and there. Dr. Kirlin has been a life told them to put their best showmember of the OSU Alumni car finish on it. I put a magnetic Association for 20 years.

OSU decal on the front, and it “I would like to see a greater now sits in my personal office percentage of our alumni join in the new hospital. Even the “It’s my way of giving somethe OSU Alumni Association. Cur- Texas A&M alums who see it are thing back to the college, and rently, only 15 percent of vet- impressed.” it helps keep me in touch with erinary alumni are members. I what’s happening at the veterthink it’s important to support inary center in Stillwater,” says OSU. By joining, alumni help Kirlin. “I wasn’t sure what to both the university and the vetexpect at the first meeting. I was Dr. Kenneth Kirlin (left) erinary center as a portion of the very impressed with how Dean used the services of an membership dues goes to our auto body paint shop to Lorenz was so involved in every get the brilliant finish for alumni association. I owe a lot aspect of the school. We have an his OSU-orange refrigerator to OSU for giving me an excelexcellent staff, and they always that sits in his office in San lent education that has allowed give informative reports at the Antonio. me to own my practice and enjoy meetings. Now that Dean [Jean] “Being on the Alumni Asso- my chosen career. I’d really like Sander has taken over, I find the same excellence is there. She ciation Board, I’ve been able to to see every alum become a life brings a different perspective, reconnect with my classmates member, which helps support which is every bit as committed and those in other classes. I’m OSU at a higher level. I enjoy as Dr. Lorenz’s. I appreciate the not sure most of our alums know receiving the OrangeBytes email fact that the college is interested we have such a board. As class newsletter, which keeps me in what is important to alumni representative, it’s our job to informed about what is happenand what we’d like to see in the keep the lines of communication ing in Stillwater and around the nation with other OSU alums.” new graduates.”

The OSU Alumni Association offers several membership options to serve your needs — annual, lifetime, new graduate, senior or even gift memberships. Membership benefits range from reduced rate athletic tickets to insurance discounts to career services and more. Join the OSU Alumni Association today at orangeconnection.org or call 405-744-5368 or 1-800-433-4678.

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connections

Genesee Photo Systems

Some of the members from the Class of 1962 returned to OSU to mark their 50-year reunion. They include (front row, from left) Lester Dupler, Dick Roth, David Mitchell, Janet Graham Schroeder and Arlis Boothe. Standing behind them are (from left) Dale Schomp, Louis Nightengale, Nick Nail, Don Muncy, Ed Schenk and Don Ensey.

Class of 1962 celebrates 50 years Arlis Boothe served as a veterinary research medical officer for the federal Agricultural Research Service at the National Animal Disease Center in Ames, Iowa. Later, he taught pathology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and went on to serve as a consultant with the developmental metabolic neurology branch of the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke at the National Institutes of Health.

Wylie Dunn opened the first veterinary practice in Searcy, Ark., and was an essential part of the community for 42 years before retiring.

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Twelve of the 17 living class members from the Class of 1962 returned to Stillwater to celebrate their 50th reunion.

Invited back to participate in the 2012 Hooding Ceremony, these senior veterinarians provide a great example of the variety of career paths one can travel with a DVM degree. Here are some highlights from the last 50 years:

Lester Dupler is proud to call himself a country veterinarian. He bought a practice in Claremore, Okla., where he and his first wife worked for many years.

David Mitchell served in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps before settling in Tulsa. He worked in private practice and served as a trail veterinarian for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Today, he still serves on the Tulsa State Fair Committee.

Don Ensey practiced mixed-animal medicine in Paris, Texas, after graduation.

Donald Muncy worked for a few years His work ethic caused him to set an unsustainable professional schedule, so he sold in a small-animal practice before attending his practice and opened a restaurant until law school. He worked in a variety of legal areas, including energy and insurance, while he retired. he flipped houses for fun. Still in pursuit of more excitement, he took up flying, which he Joseph William “Bill� Inscoe returned does frequently in his retirement. to his hometown of Newton, N.C., after graduation. He started a solo veterinary practice and continues to treat dogs and cats.

Richard Roth has spent most of his proNicholas Nail worked for the USDA Poultry Inspection Service while awaiting fessional life in a mixed-animal practice in commission as a medical services officer in his hometown of Casselton, N.D. He also the U.S. Air Force, where he served at the serves as a swine consultant in several states.

Royal Air Force Base in Wethersfield, England. Upon his return, he was an instructor of small animal medicine before going into Edward Schenk went into private private practice until he retired. practice and built a practice in Oklahoma City. He sold the practice to go into farmLouis Nightengale started practicing ing, where the financial challenges led him three days after graduation and continued to to serve as a lobbyist for the Farm Credit practice for the next 50 years. He has men- Council. tored many new graduates and established Ardmore Animal Care, which was the founDale Schomp drove all night to take the dation for the city’s animal shelter.

Texas boards the morning after graduation.

He started his own practice, working sale barns and being on-call at several slaughter plants for years. He purchased some land and built the area’s first storage units. He has built many more since.

Janet Grantham Schroeder was active in production-animal medicine. While running a general practice out of her home, she also managed a dairy operation and later some sheep. She sold the dairy cows and went into beef cattle. Today, she works in a pound, providing medical services to the animals.

Roy Smith owns and operates Central Texas Cat Hospital in Round Rock. His career started off with a mixed-animal clinic focusing on dairy cattle and horses. The practice evolved into small animals and then into his cats-only clinic. He is the presidentelect of the American Association of Feline Practitioners.

2011 Cowboy Roundup meeting old friends, making new ones all class photos by Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Class of 1956

Out of the 16 living members of the Class of 1956, three members and one widow of a classmate returned to Stillwater for the Cowboy Roundup to celebrate their 55-year reunion. Pictured (from left): Drs. Charlie Wulz, Paul Long, I.Q. Sewell’s widow Viva Sewell, and James Price.

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connections

Class of 1966

Six of the 32 living members of the Class of 1966 were able to return to Stillwater for their 45-year reunion. Pictured (from left): Drs. Robert Fulton, Tony Fell, Warren Newby and John Hahn. Not pictured but also attending reunion activities were Drs. Jack Roberson and Vernie Walker.

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Class of 1971

The Class of 1971 began planning their 40-year reunion early in the year. Of the 42 living members, 19 were able to attend. Pictured front row (from left): Drs. Carl McCoy, R.D. Hall, Charles Hatfield, James Hensley, Tim Woody and Wayne Sizelove. Back row: Drs. John Myers, Kenneth Gunkel, John Scott, Larry Minter, Cliff McDonald, Thomas Bowles, Gary Detrich, William Ferrell, John Gage, Marcia Short and Sybil Heise. Also attending but not pictured were Drs. Anna Parker and Jim Shipman.

all class photos by Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Class of 1981

Twenty-four of the 57 living members of the Class of 1981 returned to Stillwater to celebrate their 30-year reunion. Pictured in the front row (from left): Drs. Deena Gregory, Paula Janko, Tom Taggart, Genie Thoni, Renee Hammer and Margaret Ann Snyder. In the back row: Drs. Kevin Allen, Stephen Meyerdirk, Jeffrey Livingston, Rocky Bigbie, Dennis Dugger, Dee Gragg, Jeff Tidwell and Fred Northern. Also attending the Fall Conference and other related reunion events but not pictured were Drs. Phil Steinert, Paul Welch, Larry Thompson, Larry Barrett, Mark Kopit, Bob Ables, David Glover, Denis Matousek, Ken Olivier and Stan Jenkins.

Class of 1986

A total of 12 members of the Class of 1986 were in Stillwater to celebrate their 25-year reunion. Pictured in the front row (from left): Drs. Leslie Cole, Susan Gaffney and Susan Tomlinson. In the back row (from left) are Drs. Keith Fuchs, Ben Haning, Matt McQuade, Robert Norris and Grant Rezabek. Also attending reunion activities but not pictured were Drs. Rebecca Coleman, Mike Pruitt, Paul Robertson and Phil Tripp.

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connections all class photos by Gary Lawson / University Marketing

Class of 1991

A total of 21 members of the Class of 1991 returned to Stillwater to celebrate their 20-year reunion. Pictured in the front row (from left): Drs. Susan Harrington, Elizabeth Owen, Tiffany Virga, Antoinette Walker, Melinda Upton and Catherine Homrig. In the middle row: Drs. Richard Hufnagel, Laura Blazek, Steven Lucas, Dana Harvey and Petrina York. In the back row: Drs. Jerry Ritchey, Mark Richards, Jesse Thompson, Christopher Schumpert, Troy Osborne, Steven Giles, Travis Mauldin, Mike Jones, and Richard Mathes. Attending the reunion but not pictured was Dr. Desirae Self.

Class of 2001

Nine of the 76 living members of the Class of 2001 came back to Stillwater to celebrate their 10-year reunion.

Pictured in the front row (from left): Drs. Lyndi Gilliam, Jenny McGee, Melinda Luper and Kristie Brandenburg. In the back row: Drs. John Gilliam, Dustin Dersch, James Daniel, Justin Graham and Michael Prewett.

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Cowboy Roundup

Fundraising and Visiting Classmates & Other Friends

Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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open to visitors

Welcome to the Open House People came to see what tomorrow’s veterinarians are learning during the Open House at OSU’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences in March. They were able to look over the center’s facilities and technologies as well as view a variety of exhibits and live animal demonstrations covering many aspects of veterinary medicine.

photos: Gary Lawson / University Marketing

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t e ac h i n g yo u n g m i n ds

Grandparent University bridges generation gap OSU’s Grandparent University brought more than 400 legacies and their grandparents to Stillwater in June. Among the colleges participating in the Alumni Association’s annual event was the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

Dr. Larry Hamilton (’81) helps grandson

Luke Wells prepare for “surgery.”

Sherbert, the Indian Runner duck mascot for the veterinary college, gets a treat from one of the young GPU attendees.

photos: Gary Lawson / University Marketing

A young calf gets a drink from a GPU attendee.

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in memoriam

We honor those who have served the profession, our distinguished colleagues and friends.

Dr. Richard Eugene “Gene” Bailey

Dr. Clem Cottom Jr.

Dr. Weldon Glenn

Dr. Richard Eugene “Gene” Bailey, 83, died April 1, 2012, in Tulsa. He earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma State University in 1965.

Longtime Oklahoma veterinarian Dr. Clement V. “Doc” Cottom Jr., 78, of Bixby, Okla., died Nov. 4, 2011.

One of OSU’s first veterinary graduates, Dr. Weldon Glenn, 92, of San Diego, died Jan. 6, 2012.

Following a short stint with another veterinarian, Dr. Bailey opened his own practice in Tulsa in 1965. He ran the Southwest Veterinary Hospital for the next 25 years. The practice started as a mixed-animal practice and eventually moved to focus on small animals only.

In 1985, his son, Keith Bailey (who received his own DVM degree from OSU in 1984), joined him. Father and son practiced together until the elder Dr. Bailey retired in 1990.

Born in Stillwater, Dr. Cottom graduated from Liberty Mounds (Okla.) High School in 1951. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma A&M College in 1954 and his DVM degree from OSU in 1958.

Bailey is survived by his sons, Stan Bailey of Sand Springs, Okla., and Keith Bailey (and his wife, Melissa) of Tulsa; four grandchildren, Brian Bailey (and his wife, Stephanie) of Claremore, Okla., Lisa Bailey of Tulsa, David Bailey, who is a fourth-year veterinary student at OSU, and Amy Bailey of Tulsa; and one greatgranddaughter, Claire Bailey (daughter of Brian and Stephanie). His wife, Betty G. Bailey, died in 2000.

Source: Bailey family

The fourth of eight children, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II. On May 29, 1949, he married Marian Spann. Following his service, Dr. Glenn completed his education through the GI Bill, graduating with his DVM degree in the first class of OSU veterinarians He married Cleo Shackelford in August 1954. in 1951. His brother, Bertis Glenn, graduated In 1962, he established Cottom Veterinary with the second class in 1952.

Clinic in Bixby, which was still an active practice at his death.

Following graduation, Weldon Glenn practiced in Blackwell, Okla., before going on Dr. Cottom was a charter member of the Bixby to teach animal science at the University of Lions Club. He worked on the Green Corn FesWyoming. In 1961, Dr. Glenn earned his doctival planning and in later years dressed in a torate in veterinary pathology from Colorado Santa suit to promote 7C’s Christmas Tree State University. He worked in the Georgia Farm. Many area FFA chapters gained their State Veterinary Lab (1964) and as an exten“hands-on” experience under his guidance. sion veterinarian for South Dakota State UniHe was a lifetime member of the OSU Alumni versity (1965). Dr. Glenn spent some time in Association, the Northeast Oklahoma Veteri- pharmaceutical research at the Upjohn Co. nary Medical Association, the Oklahoma Vet- in Kalamazoo, Mich. In 1990, he retired from erinary Medical Association and the American the Department of Agriculture in San Francisco, Calif.

Veterinary Medical Association.

In 1994, the Glenns moved to San Diego. At age 70, Dr. Glenn was a “gardener extraordinaire” who enjoyed hours in the sunshine and warm days of southern California. He loved working in the garden and studying the science of plants and maintained 10 neighborhood landscapes. He even knew the Latin Dr. Cottom was preceded in death by his wife, names of many ordinary flowers, shrubs and Cleo, on Dec. 23, 1995, and one daughter, Dee trees.

Cottom, on April 8, 2008. He is survived by two daughters, Vicki Linker of Liberty Mounds Dr. Glenn is survived by his wife of 62 years, and Sandi Cottom of Choctaw, Okla.; two sons, Marian; four children, Joe Glenn (and his wife, Jerry Cottom (and his wife, Cheryl) of Morrison, Anita), Dana Glenn, Chris Glenn and Kim JefOkla., and Chet Cottom (and his wife, DeAnn) frey Glenn; and three grandchildren. of Liberty Mounds; six grandchildren, four Source: Marian Glenn great-grandchildren, siblings and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Dr. Cottom was known for playing hard after working hard. He and his wife built carnival booths for school, held hayrides and snow sled rides, led fundraisers and took the Girl Scouts to Six Flags Over Texas. His ranching operation included cattle, swine, sheep and horses.

Source: Leonard and Marker Funeral Home

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Dr. John Harper Jr. A longtime veterinary medical officer for the government, Dr. John Matthew Harper Jr., 81, of Neosho, Mo., died Aug. 31, 2011, at the Mount Vernon Veterans Home in Missouri.

Dr. Harper was born in Oklahoma City and served in the U.S. Air Force. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1960 and worked as a veterinary medical officer for the meat and poultry branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 30 years, retiring in 1988. He was also a longtime member of the Neosho United Methodist Church and active in the choir.

Dr. Harper is survived by his wife of 55 years, Olivene Harper; three daughters, Debra Devers (and her husband, Scott) of Irving, Texas, Judy Spaar (and her husband, John) of Lee’s Summit, Mo., and Rebecca Harper of Round Rock, Texas; and four grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Neosho United Methodist Church, Hospice Compassus or Mount Vernon Veterans Home, c/o Clark Funeral Home, P.O. Box 66, Neosho, MO 64850.

Sources: The Joplin Globe and Clark Funeral Home

Dr. Raymond E. ‘Doc’ Henry Longtime Pawnee, Okla., veterinarian Raymond E. “Doc” Henry, 86, died in Stillwater on March 27, 2012.

Upon his return home, he married his high school sweetheart, Meldine Boyles. He soon entered Oklahoma A&M College and graduated with his DVM degree in 1951 — one of the 26 members of the first veterinarians to graduate from Oklahoma A&M College. After graduation, Dr. Henry opened his first veterinary clinic in Pawnee, where he and Mel ran a successful practice for 35 years. He worked on Dr. Stephen Holmes a wide variety of animals — large, small and exotic — but had a particular gift for diagnos- Longtime Yukon, Okla., veterinarian Dr. Stephen ing and treating horses. His love of horses led R. Holmes died at age 69 on Oct. 7, 2011. to his service on the Oklahoma Horse Racing Born in Fairview, Okla., he graduated from Commission for several years.

Fairview High School and attended OklaDr. Henry was a beloved veterinarian as well homa State University. He earned his DVM as an accomplished trumpet player and pia- degree from OSU in 1966, then served in the nist. His lifelong love of music began in sec- U.S. Army Veterinary Corps from 1966-68. For ond grade. He played with various bands in the next two years, Dr. Holmes taught anathigh school, in the service and in his spare omy at OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. time throughout his life, stopping only in his Married to Dianna (Dee) Fry in 1966, the couearly 80s. ple and their two children moved to Yukon in Dr. Henry was also a great storyteller. In the 1974, where Dr. Holmes established the Yukon last few years of his life, he wrote down his Veterinary Hospital Inc. amazing stories in a self-published book called Just So You’ll Know. He wrote much of Dr. Holmes was very active in the commuthe book during the long hours of his dialy- nity. His list of service included member and two-term president of the Yukon Chamber of sis treatments.

Commerce; member and president of Yukon He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mel Rotary Club, which recognized him as an OutHenry; daughter, Ava Osborn (and her hus- standing Rotarian and a Paul Harris Fellow; band, Lynn); son, Matthew Henry; six grand- member of Yukon’s Planning Commission; children and 10 great-grandchildren. serving an unexpired term on the Yukon City Council; and member of the First United MethMemorial donations can be made to the OSU odist Church of Yukon.

Foundation, Attention: Sharon Worrell, Oklahoma State University, 308 McElroy Hall, Still- Dr. Holmes will be remembered for his love of water, OK 74078; the First Christian Church of animals as well as his loving, gentle and kind Pawnee, 900 6th Street, Pawnee, OK 74058; ways. He loved his cabin at Lake Texhoma, fishor Judith Karman Hospice, 915 S. Main St., Still- ing and the beauty of the outdoors. water, OK 74074.

He is survived by his mother, Eleanor Holmes Source: Stillwater NewsPress of Oklahoma City; his wife of 45 years, Dee of Yukon; son, Stephen Holmes of Dallas; daughter, Anilee Foster (and her husband, Shane) of Frisco, Texas; and his five beloved grandchilDr. Everett J. Hickok dren, who called him “Poppy Soc.” Dr. Everett James Hickok of St. Augustine, Fla., Memorial contributions may be made to the died July 4, 2012. He was 92.

OSU Foundation for the Companion Animal Born in Billings, Okla., he served as a major Fund, c/o Sharon Worrell, 308 McElroy Hall, in the U.S. Army Infantry during World War Stillwater, OK 74078.

II. In 1942, he married Frances Faye Smith in Enid, Okla.

Born in Ralston, Okla., he graduated from Ralston High School in 1944. The next day, he He earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma joined the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the State in 1956. He was an Oklahoma Veteri62nd Seabees Battalion during World War II. nary Medical Association member for 56 years.

He was stationed on Iwo Jima before being Dr. Hickok is survived by his son, James Hickok transferred to the 90th Seabees Battalion in (and his wife, Pam); granddaughter, Emily Yokosuka, Japan.

Phan (and her husband, Hieu); and greatgranddaughter, Jasmine Phan, all of St. Augustine; as well as two brothers and a sister.

Source: Yanda and Son Funeral Home

continues

Source: Tulsa World

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An elder in the Chickasaw Nation, Dr. Johnson was preceded in death by Lucille, his wife of nearly 56 years. He is survived by two nephews, a sister-in-law and one cousin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the OSU Foundation, designated for the Lester and Lucille Johnson Scholarship Fund, and mailed to Oklahoma State University, 308 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078.

Dr. Lester Johnson

Source: Strode Funeral Home

A professor who spent 30 years at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine has died. Dr. Lester Johnson, 93, of Still- Dr. Kenneth Gene Keenum Sr. water, died Sept. 4, 2011, in Stillwater.

Oklahoma State alumnus Dr. Kenneth Gene Born in Overbrook, Okla., he attended school Keenum Sr., 77, of Murphy, N.C., died Oct. 28, in Ravia, Okla., graduating in 1935 as class vale- 2011, at Murphy Medical Center. dictorian and a member of the National Honor A native of Gaston County, N.C., he attended Society. He earned an associate degree from North Carolina State University, Oklahoma Murray State College in Tishomingo, Okla., in State University and the U.S. Naval Academy.

1937. At Oklahoma A&M College, he made the dean’s honor roll and graduated with a bach- After he graduated with his DVM degree from OSU in 1960, Dr. Keenum practiced for elor’s degree in 1939. six years in South Dakota. From 1966 to 1972, In May 1942, he was inducted into the U.S. he practiced in Murphy. In 1972, Dr. Keenum Army and trained in meteorology. On Aug. 4, became the assistant director at the Animal 1943, he and 12,000 other soldiers sailed for Disease Diagnostic Laboratory under the Scotland. He was assigned to the 8th Air Force North Carolina Department of Agriculture, serving in England, France and Germany dur- retiring in 1995. ing World War II. Johnson rose to the rank of staff sergeant and received the EAME (Euro- Dr. Keenum enjoyed farming and playing pean-African-Middle Eastern) Service Medal bridge. He was a member of the Masonic with four Bronze Battle Stars. He was dis- Lodge in South Dakota, various Jaycee groups, the Lions Club and assisted with the vetercharged Sept. 30, 1945. ans. He was also a member of the First United After the war, he studied veterinary medicine Methodist Church of Murphy. at Texas A&M University. He was named a distinguished student, outstanding veterinary Dr. Keenum is survived by his wife, Clara; son, student and elected president of his senior Kenneth Keenum Jr. of Murphy; daughters Lisa class while he was earning his DVM degree, Keenum of Murphy and Joyce Jackson of Winwhich he received in 1950. He then went into ston-Salem, N.C.; two sisters, Geraldine James private practice in Ada, Okla., and later worked (and her husband, Duke) of Waynesville, N.C. for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agri- and Carolyn Lonnblad of Glendale, Ariz.; and one granddaughter. cultural Research Service.

In 1954, Dr. Johnson accepted a position as an assistant professor in large-animal medicine and surgery with the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine. His career spanned 30 years, ending with his retirement as Professor Emeritus in 1984. During his tenure, he received seven outstanding teaching awards, including the Norden Teaching Award in 1963 and 1965. He served as head of large-animal medicine and surgery, performing some of the first successful equine abdominal surgeries in the U.S. and as equine section chief. Dr. Johnson also served as president of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association in 1975 and was named the Oklahoma Veterinarian of the Year in 1983.

Dr. Clyde Kirkbride Textbook author Dr. Clyde Kirkbride, 87, of Brookings, S.D., died Sept. 15, 2011, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, S.D. Born and raised in California, he graduated from Burbank High School. He attended one semester at the University of California at Los Angeles before he was inducted into the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1943. He met Dorothy Cribbs and they were married April 19, 1944. During World War II, he served with the 9th Air Force as a B-26 pilot, completing 21 missions out of England and Belgium.

After the war, he earned his DVM degree in 1953 from Oklahoma A&M College. Dr. Kirkbride spent the next 10 years in private practice in Mountain Grove, Mo. In 1963, he went to Kansas State University and served on the faculty until 1967. In 1967, the family moved to Brookings, where he worked for the next 23 years at the South Dakota State University Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory. He also earned his master’s degree in microbiology in 1970 from South Dakota State.

Dr. Kirkbride authored a textbook, Control of Livestock Diseases, and was an honorary diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists. A past president of the Western Veterinary Conference, he was an honorary life member of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians. He was also a member of the South Dakota VMA, American Leptospirosis Research Conference, National Mastitis Council and the U.S. AniMemorial contributions may be made to mal Health Association. Honors he received the Hattie Parker Cemetery Flower Fund at included the SDVMA Veterinarian of the Year Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, (1989) and the AAVLD Distinguished Service c/o T.L. McNabb, 186 Friendship Church Road, Award (2011).

Murphy, NC 28906.

Dr. Kirkbride enjoyed fishing, gardening, workSource: Townson-Rose Funeral Home ing on his computer and reading. Besides his wife of 67 years, Dorothy, he is survived by five children, Sharon Arndt, Barbara Brown, Katie Gilmore (and her husband, Paul), Tom Kirkbride and Steve Kirkbride; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the South Dakota State University Foundation Jackrabbit Guarantee Scholarship Program, Box 525, Brookings, SD 57007; or Advance, P.O. Box 810, Brookings, SD 57006; or the Dougherty Hospice House, P.O. Box 5045, Sioux Falls, SD 57117.

Sources: Heritage Funeral Home and JAVMA

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Dr. Larry Mayberry

Dr. Fayne Higgins Oberst

Dr. Riding In loved her family and hosted many dinners and barbeques at her home.

Dr. Larry Mayberry of Brandon, Miss., died Oct. Oklahoma State University Professor Emeri- She enjoyed going to the beach, traveling 23, 2011, at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, Miss. A tus Dr. Fayne Higgins Oberst, 92, formerly of and sightseeing throughout the country. She native of Oklahoma, he earned his DVM degree Manhattan, Kan., died April 5, 2012, in Palm was a member of the Confederated Tribes of from OSU in 1972. Dr. Mayberry spent 35 years Bay, Fla. Siletz and the Pawnee Nation and served as practicing equine medicine exclusively. He was From 1974 to 1984, he was a professor and a good role model as a young Native Ameriexperienced in lameness diagnosis and treathead of medicine and surgery and director can professional. ment and was certified in chiropractic and of OSU’s Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Dr. Riding In is survived by her husband, dentistry.

Hospital. In 1984, Dr. Oberst retired from OSU, Andres Angeles; mother, Doris Riding In of Dr. Mayberry taught equine-clinical medicine but he continued to be a part of the emeritus Portland; sisters, Dorna Battese of Apache, at Mississippi State University College of Vet- faculty until his death.

Okla., Delores Riding In of Siletz, Ore., and erinary Medicine from 1984 to 1988, receiving Dr. Oberst was on the organizing committee, Denise Riding In of Kailau, Hawaii; a stepteacher of the year honors twice. Dr. Mayberry a charter diplomate, and the second presi- daughter, Nicolina Angeles, and two stepthen returned to private practice in Mississippi. dent of the American College of Theriogenol- sons, Andres Angeles Jr. and Tony Angeles, He was a lifetime member of the Mississippi ogists. He was also involved with a number of all of Portland; and numerous relatives. She Veterinary Medical Association. other veterinary related organizations. He was was preceded in death by her father, RobHe is survived by his wife of 49 years, Marcia E. a highly recognized educator who received ert Riding In. Anderson Mayberry; son, Dr. Larry Brook May- numerous teaching awards, including the 1988 Source: Omega Funeral & Cremation Service berry, DVM (and his wife, Dianne); daughter, Clinician of the Year Award from OSU. Amy Mayberry Fries (and her husband, Kery); After he retired, Dr. Oberst remained active, sisters, Ouida Mayberry Self and Delcine Maybecoming a master gardener, volunteering for berry Goodpasture; brother, Tim Mayberry; Meals on Wheels and participating in church and two granddaughters. activities.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Dr. Oberst was preceded in death by his wife Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Mississippiof 65 years, Anne Charlson Oberst. He is surLouisiana Chapter, 3636 S. I-10 Service Road, vived by his daughter, Diane Erickson (and her Suite 304, Metairie, LA 70001. husband, Robert) of Paluski, Tenn.; sons, Dr. Source: Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association Richard Oberst (and his wife, Jacque Staats) of Manhattan, Kan., and Mark Oberst (and his wife, Ann) of Micco, Fla.; two grandchildren Dr. Harold B. Rinker and two great-grandchildren.

Source: Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory

An honored OSU football player, Dr. Harold B. Rinker, 78, of West Fork, Ark., died Jan. 2, 2012, at the Willard Walker Hospice Home in Fayetteville, Ark. Born in Seneca, N.M., he graduated from Clayton (N.M.) High School. He attended Fort Lewis A&M College in Colorado (1951-52) and Oklahoma State University (1953-54) as an undergraduate. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1958.

Dr. Thomas Pastor Dr. Thomas Pastor died on June 26, 2012. He was 64 and living in New Orleans.

He is remembered as being kind-hearted, compassionate and loving his family dearly.

Dr. Pastor was well known and respected in the veterinary world by his clients and peers.

Dr. Debra Riding In

Memorial donations may be made to your charity of choice in Dr. Pastor’s memory.

nomah County. Dr. Riding In was especially adept at surgeries.

Dr. Debra Riding In, 48, of Portland, Ore., died Oct. 1, 2011. She was born in Portland and Dr. Pastor is survived by his mother, Cathe- earned her biochemistry degree from Hood rine DeCorte Pastor; two brothers, Kenneth College in Fredericksburg, Md. Pastor and Danny Pastor; and a sister, Catherine deVeer and her husband, Joseph. He is She received her DVM degree from Oklahoma also survived by his grandchildren, Sebastian State University in 1994.

Pastor and Kashmeria Pastor; a close friend, She had a passion for her work as a veterinarMarilyn Waites Pastor; and best friend, Car- ian and worked for several veterinary hospitals los Campos. and clinics throughout Portland and Mult-

He played collegiate football in Colorado and Oklahoma. Earlier at Fort Lewis A&M, he earned all-conference and Honorable Mention All-America honors and was named Outstanding Athlete of the Year in 1952.

During his veterinary medicine career, Dr. Rinker taught, published articles in numerous trade journals and served as a consultant to the livestock and pharmaceutical industries. He was a founding member of the Academy of Veterinary Consultants. Dr. Rinker had veterinary practices in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. He also worked on the Hopi and Navajo reservations in Arizona and New Mexico. In the latter years of his career, he was an inspector for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Source: The Times-Picayune, New Orleans continues

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He considered his most important achievements to be his continued sobriety as an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 38 years, volunteering for the Washington Regional Hospice Program for more than 20 years, and what he taught his children and grandchildren by voice and deed. He lived a life of service helping others.

Dr. Rinker is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jan; two sons, Martin Rinker (and his wife, Tracy) of Hardesty, Okla.; and Michael Rinker (and his wife, Rhonda) of Union City, Tenn.; three daughters, Karen Rinker (and her partner, Jake Warnock) of West Fork; Kim White (and her husband, Scott) of Warren, Ark.; and Kelly Cantrell (and her husband, Jay) of West Fork; 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Willard Walker Hospice Home, 325 E. Longview Drive, Fayetteville, AR 72703 or to the Dr. Harold B. Rinker Annual Scholarship, (make check payable to OSU Foundation with scholarship notation in the memo), Oklahoma State University, 308 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078.

Source: Saline River Chronicle News

Dr. Coleman Scott Oklahoma State University alumnus Dr. Coleman Scott, 66, died July 30, 2011, after a battle with cancer.

Born in Sapulpa, Okla., he grew up on the family dairy farm. In 1963, he married his high school sweetheart, Ruth Ann Stout. He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1970. He served as a captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps at Fort Riley, Kan.

Dr. Betty Self

She was very active in her community. Dr. Simon was a former president of Brighton Rotary, founding member and charter president of Brighton Early Rotary, and founded Brighton Interact (junior Rotary) Club at Brighton Charter High School. She was a Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year in 2005 and Rotary District 5450 Rotarian of the Year in 2009.

A singer and actress, she became involved Oklahoma’s first female veterinarian, Dr. Betty with the Performing Arts Council of Brighton Self, 78, of Robert Lee, Texas, died Jan. 10, 2012, and later with the Platte Valley Players. She in San Angelo, Texas. was a member of the Brighton Chorus, performing in the 2010 Holiday Concert and at Born in Colorado City, Texas, she graduated New York’s Carnegie Hall in 2008. from Odessa High School. A pioneer in the field of veterinary medicine, she was the sec- She spearheaded an effort to improve acaond woman to graduate from OSU with a DVM demic performance at North Elementary degree when she graduated in 1957.

School, which started a grant-funded tutoring program. That led to the Robert M. Shopneck Dr. Self started her career in a mixed-aniBoys & Girls Club, with which she remained mal clinic in Ada, Okla., where she worked involved. She also supported a scholarship for about 24 years. After that, she returned program for young women through the Phito Texas and practiced in Denton for 19 years lanthropist Education Organization and was before retiring in 2000. In 2002, she opted a donor to the Platte Valley Medical Center for a slower pace and moved to Robert Lee. campus.

She was preceded in death by a son, Brian.

Dr. Simon is survived by her husband, Dave; She is survived by two sons, Thomas Self and daughter, Kari Jo Walker; son, Lucas Beattie; Bruce Self (and his wife, Diana); two grandfather and stepmother, Ronnie and Linda Scott sons, four great-grandchildren, siblings, a of Lamar, Mo.; brother, Terry Scott of Manhatniece and four nephews. A practicing vetertan, Kan.; sisters, Stephanie White of Lafayette, inarian for 43 years, Dr. Self was devoted to Kan., Gayle England (and her husband, J.C.) her profession and her family. of Tulsa, and Denise Pruner (and her husband, Source: San Angelo Standard Times Rob) of Clay Center, Kan. She was preceded in death by her mother, Betty Scott.

Dr. Scott established Great Plains Pet Hospital in Newton, Kan., and passionately cared for animals for almost 35 years.

Memorial contributions may be made payable to the Sheri Simon Memorial Fund and mailed to Sheri Simon Memorial Fund, 420 Court Place, Brighton, CO 80601. The fund will be used to keep Dr. Simon’s legacy alive and well in the Brighton area and beyond.

Source: Tabor-Rice Funeral Home

A private pilot, Dr. Scott loved to fly his Mooney and Bonanza airplanes as well as travel, boat, RV, fish and watch his grandchil- Dr. Sheri Simon dren’s sports and activities.

Dr. Sheri Simon, 49, of Brighton, Colo., died He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ruth Dec. 4, 2011, from complications related to a Ann; children, Shawn Scott (and his wife, Bea- lengthy illness. triz) of Rota, Spain, Julie Koehn (and her husband, Warren) of Wichita, Kan., and Jennifer Brown (and her husband, Scott) of Maize, Kan.; six grandchildren and several siblings.

She graduated from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Okla., in 1982, from Oklahoma State University in 1984 and earned her DVM degree from OSU in 1988. She and her first husband, Lyal Storm Beattie III, and their Dr. E.L. Stair Jr. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 300 N. daughter, Kari Jo, moved to Brighton, where One of the first officials with Oklahoma State Main, Suite 300, Wichita, KS 67202 or Trans she began working for Alan Rice at Brighton University’s Oklahoma Animal Disease DiagWorld Radio Missions, c/o TWR Donor Ser- Animal Clinic. Dr. Simon became a partner in nostic Laboratory has died. Dr. Ernest Lee Stair the clinic in 1992 and bought it in 2003. She vices, P.O. Box 8700, Cary, NC 27512.

Jr. was the assistant director and chief patholalso owned and operated the International ogist for the lab from June 1975, six months Source: The Newton Kansan Canine Semen Bank of Colorado and the Play before it opened, until he retired in 1997.

Stay & More pet care business.

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Dr. Stair, a Stillwater resident, was born on the family farm near Geronimo, Okla., and lived to be 80 years old. He died on Aug. 15, 2011, from complications of Parkinson’s disease.

He earned his DVM degree from OSU in 1960.

Following graduation, he accepted a March of Dimes Fellowship at the University of Nebraska, where he conducted viral infection research on pregnant swine and became an instructor in the veterinary department from 1960 to 1964. He also earned a master’s degree in veterinary science at Nebraska.

Dr. Leo Voskuhl

One of the first graduates of Oklahoma State Dr. Edgar Ellis Wallop University’s veterinary school has died. Dr. Leo Dr. Edgar Ellis Wallop, 85, of Chester, Md., died “Doc” Jerome Voskuhl, 86, of Kingfisher, Okla., Nov. 26, 2011, at the Hospice House of Queen In 1968, Dr. Stair earned a doctorate in veteridied Aug. 1, 2011. Born in Celina, Ohio, he was Anne’s in Centreville, Md. nary pathobiology from Texas A&M University. raised on his family’s farm in Marshall, Okla.

As an assistant professor and later an associBorn in Washington, D.C., he graduated from ate professor, he taught veterinary students While he knew at a young age that veterinary that city’s Calvin Coolidge High School before necropsy techniques and basic pathology. medicine was the career for him, he served in enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1945. He enjoyed His students gave him “A Good Stick Award.” the U.S. Army at Camp Swift Military Base near playing drums and played in the Navy Band.

From 1968 to 1975, Dr. Stair returned to the McDade, Texas, before pursuing that dream. After his military service, he continued to play University of Nebraska as an associate profes- He met and married Edith English during his drums for several big bands. He later attended sor. He chaired committees, advised master’s Army service.

Loyola College and graduated from the Unidegree candidates and served as an instructor.

Following his military service, he applied to versity of Maryland. He earned his DVM degree Dr. Stair was active in the Stillwater commu- Oklahoma A&M College’s School of Veterinary from Oklahoma State in 1962. nity, coaching Little Chief T-Ball and working Medicine. He was selected to be among the first Dr. Wallop practiced in Bowie, Md., and Berlin, with Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. He belonged class and graduated with a DVM degree in 1951. Md., before establishing Kent Island Veterinary to the First Christian Church in Stillwater and Hospital in Chester, where he retired. He was a was interested in electronics, woodworking While traveling from Hennessey, Okla., to beloved veterinarian who was well-respected Oklahoma City, Dr. Voskuhl saw Kingfisher and computers. He helped his friends set up and decided to practice there. A country doc- throughout the Eastern Shore. their first computers. tor who loved his work, he practiced in King- He loved his family, swing and jazz music, aniHe is survived by his wife of 52 years, Eileen fisher for 60 years. mals, Baltimore Orioles baseball, Maryland’s Austin Stair; sons, Eric Stair (and his wife, Lalai), Ocean City and drumming. He continued to Among his achievements were sitting on the Evan Stair (and his wife, Dana) and Eron Stair; play for big bands into the 1990s. two grandchildren; two sisters, Mildred King Oklahoma Veterinary Board of Examiners for several years and receiving an achievement Dr. Wallop is survived by his wife, Margaret; (and her husband, Harrison) and Patricia Davidaward at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s two sons, Jeffrey Wallop (and his wife, Janson; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Millennium Celebration. The award recog- ice) of Burtonsville, Md., and Chris Wallop of Memorial contributions may be made to the nized Dr. Voskuhl’s common-sense approach Austin, Texas; two stepdaughters, Carrie JenJudith Karman Hospice, P.O. Box 818, Stillwa- to veterinary medicine, his customer service nings (and her husband, Chris) of Cordova, ter, OK 74078; First Christian Church, 411 W. and professional knowledge. He also served Md., and Lettie Weldon of Stevensville, Md.; Matthews Ave., Stillwater, OK 74074; or any on the Kingfisher School Board for 20 years three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. of several Parkinson’s Associations at APDA and was named Kingfisher Citizen of the Year.

Memorial contributions may be made to HosOklahoma Parkinson Disease Chapter (OPDA), Surviving are his wife of 20 years, Sharon pice of Queen Anne’s Inc., 255 Comet Drive, 1125 S. Trenton Ave,, Tulsa, OK 74120.

Voskuhl; son, Steve Voskuhl of Austin; daugh- Centreville, MD 21617, or to your local aniSource: Stillwater NewsPress ter, Vicki Smith (and her husband, Jim) of mal shelter.

Kingfisher; two grandsons and six greatgranddaughters. He was preceded in death by Source: Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home his wife, Edith, and one son, Danny. Memorial

Dr. William D. Tolbert contributions may be made to Russell-Murray Dr. William D. Tolbert, 74, of Huntington, W.Va., Hospice in Kingfisher. died Oct. 1, 2011, at the Emogene Dolin Jones Hospice House in Huntington.

Source: The Kingfisher Times & Free Press

He was born in Hinton, W.Va. He graduated from West Virginia University and earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma State University in 1962. He established the Barboursville (W.Va.) Veterinary Clinic in 1975.

Dr. Tolbert is survived by two sons, Alan Tolbert and Greg Tolbert, both of Barboursville, W.Va.; and three grandchildren.

Source: Herald-Dispatch, Huntington, W.Va.

2012 Oklahoma State University

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big things to come

Vets’ pets They start out small …

Don’t be fooled by young physiological sciences, is only thinkers — good qualities Natty’s small size: The bull- 9 weeks old in the photograph for agility training and other mastiff puppy, who belongs to below and on the cover. As a events. They are typically Dianne McFarlane, DVM, Ph.D., giant breed, Natty will grow low-energy dogs with sweet diplomate American College up to be much larger. Bullmas- natures. Although they are of Veterinary Internal Medi- tiffs are good athletes, fearless, natural guard dogs, they do cine and associate professor in confident and independent not bark much. Bullmastiffs

were originally bred to guard estates, and silence was considered a virtue. McFarlane has another bullmastiff named Nellie. Both Natty and Nellie love to go places and meet new people.

Phil Shockley / University Marketing

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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

The Future

Welcoming the newest class

Genesee Photo Systems

The Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences officially welcomed the Class of 2016 at a traditional White Coat Ceremony in August at the Stillwater Community Center.

The class, with 82 members, is dominated by Oklahoma residents. For a closer look at the Class of 2016’s statistics, see Pages 82-83.

“America’s G reatest Homecoming Celebration” is Oct. 19–20, 2012, culminating in the football game against Iowa State on Saturday, Oct. 20 (kickoff TBD).

Before that, there will be plenty to do & see: Walkaround — 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19. Check out the Greek house decorations.

Homecoming & Hoops — 9 p.m. Friday at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Enjoy celebrating OSU’s upcoming basketball season and Homecoming awards. Doors open at 8 p.m.

Sea of Orange parade — Thousands of spectators will watch more than 100 entries roll down the streets of downtown Stillwater before the game Saturday (time TBD).

Don’t Forget to Write Home

Keep your college and fellow alumni informed of pertinent events in your life by sending your news to: Vet Cetera

(405) 744-6740 phone

Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

(405) 744-5233 fax

308 McElroy Hall

derinda@okstate.edu email

Stillwater, OK 74078-2011

Oklahoma State University

Non-Profit organization

Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

U.S. POSTAGE P A I D

308 McElroy Hall

Stillwater, OK

Stillwater, Oklahoma 74078-2011

Permit No. 191

NCVP board meets at OSU Gary Lawson / University Marketing

The board of the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology met at OSU in March. Members included (back row, from left) Dr. Dwight Bowman, Cornell University; Dr. Joe Hostetler, Bayer Animal Health; Dr. Kelly Allen, OSU; Dr. Christian Epe, Novartis Animal Health; Dr. Doug Carrithers, Merial Ltd.; Dr. Chris Adolph, OSU; (front row, from left) Dr. Mason Reichard, OSU; Dr. Anne Zajac, Virginia Tech; Dr. Eileen Johnson, OSU; Dr. Lindsay Starkey, OSU; and Dr. Susan Little, OSU and director of the center.