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| Veterinary Medicine Update |  |  |
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- U.S. opinion on influenza research diverges from the majority
The U.S. National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity (NSABB) stands out as the main opponent to publishing full data on the altered H5N1 strains that easily spread between ferrets, but influenza scientists say the mutated viruses are not as pathogenic as reported by the media and whether they can even be transmitted to people is unclear. Nevertheless, NSABB board member Michael Osterholm remains concerned about the possible consequences of releasing the research. "I worry about the garage scientist, about the do-your-own scientist, about the person who just wants to see if they can do it," he said. Google/Agence France-Presse
(2/29)     
- FAO targets improper veterinary medications used in Africa
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has launched an initiative to curb the use of substandard veterinary medicines to treat African animal trypanosomiasis, also known as Nagana, in Africa. The disease is transmitted to livestock via insects such as tsetse flies and causes abortions and decreased productivity and fertility, racking up $4.5 billion in annual industry losses. Currently, improper drugs are used at insufficient doses, leaving animals unprotected and possibly creating residues in meat and dairy products that could threaten humans, according to FAO Chief Veterinary Officer Juan Lubroth. AllAfrica Global Media/This Day (Nigeria)
(3/1)
- Dolphins greet each other with specialized whistles
New research found that before two pods of dolphins join up and swim together, representatives from each group exchange whistles, as if to greet each other. When pods just pass each other, no greeting is issued. "It's really the first time that we can pinpoint down two individual groups and how they interact in a vocal domain," said researcher Vincent Janik. LiveScience.com
(2/28)
- Scientists reverse memory loss in mice
A recent Massachusetts Institute of Technology study in mice with an Alzheimer's-like disease found that high levels of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) are associated with memory loss and blocking buildup of the protein can prevent memory loss. The findings may eventually provide a new avenue for treating Alzheimer's disease in people. HealthDay News
(2/29)
- Robotic fish could lead others away from danger
Live fish will follow a swimming robotic fish but essentially ignore the robot if it isn't moving, according to research from the Polytechnic Institute of New York University. The researchers hope to use this technology to guide fish away from environmental hazards and other dangers. MSNBC/Future of Tech Blog
(2/29)
| Animal News | | |
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- Dozens of pets are euthanized due to rabies exposure
Since December, 32 dogs, some livestock and at least one cat have been euthanized due to rabies exposure in New Mexico, and 12 people have undergone rabies prophylaxis, according to the state's Department of Health. "This is one of the most concentrated outbreaks of rabies that has been seen in New Mexico for decades," said state public health veterinarian Paul Ettestad, who also reminded owners to have their pets vaccinated for rabies. MSNBC
(2/29), Alamogordo Daily News (N.M.)
(2/29)
- Veterinarian safeguards K-9 officer
Veterinarian Chris Gerard and his wife, Lois, collected $1,000 to purchase a canine bulletproof vest for the senior K-9 officer, Taz, in Sumter County, S.C. Dr. Gerard and his wife were inspired to provide the vest after hearing the story of another police dog who was shot and killed in the line of duty. WIS-TV (Columbia, S.C.)
(2/29)
| Around the Office | | |
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- How an insurance broker can make life easier, business safer
Getting an insurance broker can help to manage your business's insurance needs without losing your mind, writes Gladys Edmunds. Talking to other people about their brokers is a good way to find a broker, but you should interview several before you pick one, she writes. USA TODAY
(2/28)
| Policy Watch | | |
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- Bill banning employment for undercover filming passes in Iowa
The Iowa Legislature has approved a measure that would bar persons from seeking employment at a livestock operation with the intent to film animal handling. Supporters say the effort is necessary to protect companies from those who could distribute video of procedures taken out of context, while opponents contend the bill would stamp out whistle-blowers' ability to shed light on any instances of animal mishandling. The Wall Street Journal/The Associated Press
(3/1)
| Association News | | |
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Are you prepared for a disaster?
Does your family's emergency plan include your animals? Planning and preparation are critical when it comes to protecting the health of your family, pets and livestock. "Saving the Whole Family," a booklet produced by the AVMA, includes detailed information on assembling emergency kits and plans for a wide variety of animal species. View and download "Saving the Whole Family".
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