Neonatal calf diarrhea also known as scours is a primary cause of illness and death in young, unweaned calves. Of the several viral, bacterial and protozoal intestinal pathogens associated with calf diarrhea, the most recognized pathogens include Cryptosporidium species, bovine coronavirus and bovine rotavirus group A1. Prevalence of infections by these pathogens varies due to…
Many Texans rely upon the weather for a variety of reasons. From crops to cattle, Texans are often at the mercy of Mother Nature. Although droughts can have a dire impact on animal health, floods can also contribute to widespread issues among animal owners. Excessive rainfall can contribute to mosquito-borne diseases, toxic plants, dermatologic conditions,…
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers digital cytology to account-holding clients. Digital cytology provides rapid evaluation of photos taken with microscope cameras or smart phones. This service provides an official report and cytologic interpretation, typically within one hour of submission (during business hours). To enhance this service, submission of glass slides for…
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers digital toxicology to account-holding clients. Digital toxicology provides evaluation of photos taken with smart phones, or other digital cameras, and an official report identifying items photographed (where possible) including an attachment with labeled photos for later reference – an advantage over shipping items to the laboratory…
This assay utilizes rtPCR technology on E. coli isolates recovered from ruminant samples. Samples are recovered by the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) bacteriology section to further characterize the potential of the isolate to be participating in the current patient clinical syndrome. The significance of the detected genes should be interpreted with the…
Hair Sample Collection Preparation The collection of hair samples should be undertaken by a competent individual within a secure, contamination-free facility. The purpose of hair sampling is to collect a usable cross-section of hair to test for prohibited substances. Collection Supplies Collecting the Sample Samples should be stored at room temperature and protected from direct…
What is canine influenza?Canine influenza virus (CIV), or dog flu, is a highly contagious respiratory infection of dogs that is caused by an influenza A virus. In the U.S., canine influenza has been caused by two influenza strains. The first strain reported in the United States, beginning in 2004, was an H3N8 influenza A virus.…
Q: What is G6S, and why should I test for it?Caprine mucopolysaccharidosis-iiid is a lysosomal storage disorder, caused by a genetic mutation (a point mutation) which results in a defective G6S (N-Acetylglucosamine-6-sulfatase) enzyme. The only method for testing for this genetic defect is with a DNA test identifying the causative point mutation. Goats should be…
Hundreds of samples arrive daily at the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) for testing. Testing accuracy often depends on the submission of the proper specimen for the assay, particularly for molecular diagnostics. With the proper sample, we can perform the assay and provide the most timely and accurate results without delay. While results…