Botulism may be uncommon, but when it strikes, the consequences can be devastating. Botulism is a neuroparalytic disease caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum, a spore-forming, Gram-positive bacterium. Susceptibility varies among species, and the effects of infection may range from temporary paralysis to respiratory failure. Timely recognition and diagnosis of botulism are helpful for…
On June 23, Tegner Jacobson, PhD, MT-P(AAB), joined the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, TVMDL, in Canyon, as the microbiology section head. In 2016, Tegner earned a bachelor’s degree in general microbiology from Montana State University. Following graduation, he served as a laboratory technician at Montana State University and the Montana Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory. In…
Mastitis is a leading cause of reduced milk production in dairy herds, making it a costly health issue within the industry. The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, TVMDL, can assist dairy owners in testing for mastitis that can help lead treatment and prevention. Recognizing and addressing mastitis at early stages can mean the difference…
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, TVMDL, regularly performs testing to detect and mitigate the effects of pyoderma, a bacterial skin infection commonly found in canines. Clinical signs of pyoderma include redness, pustules, crusting, hair loss and itchiness around affected regions. The disease is classified into three categories based on the depth of infection:…
On May 7, Erika Schwarz, DVM, MPH, PhD, DACVM joined the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) in College Station. She will serve as TVMDL’s assistant agency director for microbiology. Schwarz is a four-time graduate of the University of Florida. She earned a bachelor’s degree in 2011 and simultaneously earned a Master of Public…
Extended daylight in the spring signals the start of the equine breeding season. Sunlight stimulates the release of hormones that influence ovarian activity. Before breeding mares, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive reproductive evaluation. A complete breeding soundness examination includes an overview of the overall health of the mare, a physical evaluation of the…
Mycoplasma bacteria can cause a variety of symptoms in many of our animal species. These bacteria are unique because they lack a cell wall, making them challenging to detect and treat. The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) commonly detects infections in dogs, cats, and livestock. One of the most common signs of mycoplasma…