Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (2024)

Golden retriever’s cancer treatment gives veterinary student perspective as pet owner , article

A dog owner, a veterinary clinic assistant and a veterinary college student might see advanced radiation treatment of a pet from somewhat different perspectives. But Taylor Layton sees it from all three at once.

Integrating ancient art and modern science: Acupuncture in veterinary education , article

For thousands of years, acupuncture has played a crucial role in traditional Chinese medicine, known for promoting healing and balance. Today, this practice is gaining recognition in veterinary medicine as a safe, effective complementary therapy.

Giving a Second Chance: The Importance of Adopting from an Animal Shelter , article

By choosing to adopt from an animal shelter, you give a second chance to a deserving pet and contribute to the welfare of animals in need. But it's not only the deep sense of fulfillment that comes from giving a home to an animal in need. The happiness and bond between a shelter pet and its adopter is truly special.

Veterinary college wins AKC theriogenology grant , article

Thanks to a $125,000 grant from the American Kennel Club, the AKC Canine Health Foundation, and the Theriogenology Foundation, the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine is welcoming a new theriogenology resident, Gabriela Carneiro de Sousa.

Accomplished alum guides veterinary students in surgical techniques , article

Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine alumnus Justin Ganjei, an accomplished veterinary surgeon in Maryland, offers his expertise to help today’s veterinary students learn proper surgery techniques.

Virginia beef producers' day of learning and connection at Virginia Tech , article

Faculty from both the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine presented topics at the 2024 Beef Cattle Health Conference held on the Virginia Tech campus.

Kayla Fowler Wins Bente Flatland Resident Award , article

Kayla Fowler, resident in neurology/neurosurgery at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, has won the Bente Flatland Resident Award.

Camille Brassard honored with Bente Flatland Resident Award , article

Camille Brassard, resident in small animal internal medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, has won the Bente Flatland Resident Award.

Boehringer Ingelheim donates vaccines, medications for veterinary college shelter medicine program , article

Pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health is donating a replenishing supply of vaccines and medications for use at two regional animal shelters by Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine students assisting staff during clerkships.

Timothy Bolton awarded Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award , article

The Zoetis award is a nationally recognized honor for a faculty member at each veterinary school in the United States. This award is given to a faculty member who has demonstrated leadership and character; teaching ability as demonstrated by the caliber of instruction and responsiveness to the needs of students. Faculty members are nominated by their students.

Board of Visitors recognizes college faculty , article

Many congratulations to veterinary college faculty recognized by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors at the June 6 meeting.

Veterinary college experts pen definitive book on dog breeding , article

Julie Cecere, clinical associate professor of theriogenology, and Phillip Sponenberg, recently retired professor of pathology and genetics, have co-authored "Breeding Better Dogs: Canine Breeding Management.”

Chris Byron named new head of Large Animal Clinical Sciences amid equine crisis , article

The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine has named associate professor of large animal surgery Chris Byron as the next head of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences.

Chris Byron named C.R. Roberts Professor of Clinical Veterinary Medicine , article

Chris Byron, associate professor and head of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, has been named the C.R. Roberts Professor of Clinical Veterinary Medicine by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

A pint-sized puppy named Kenny Brooks does a full-court press on heart research , article

He may not shoot hoops like the players his Virginia Tech women’s basketball coach namesake guides, but this Kenny Brooks, a 5-month-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, is dribbling his way into the hearts of researchers. As a key player in a unique cardiology study at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, this charming puppy is helping to unravel the mysteries of heart disease in his breed.

The “Canine Instructors” Class of ‘22 , article

Just as the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine welcomed its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) class of 2026 this Fall, it also welcomed its new participants in the Animal Care for Education (ACE) program. From August to mid-October, the veterinary college fosters dogs that come from local shelters.

CareCredit accepted at veterinary college’s three teaching hospitals , article

Clients of Virginia Tech’s three veterinary hospitals now have a new way to pay. Financing pets’ veterinary care through CareCredit has been available since April at all three of the hospitals of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine – the Animal Cancer Care and Research Center in Roanoke, the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital in the college’s main building at Virginia Tech.

Fostering love and learning , article

VA-MD Vet Med's new Canine Awareness and Responsibility Experience for Students program — known as CARES — fosters carefully selected dogs from local shelters to teach students about routine care and socialization.

Carvallo empowers Latin American veterinarians through pathology education in Guatemala and Nicaragua , article

Personally, and professionally, Francisco Carvallo is deeply invested in spreading veterinary knowledge across Latin America. Carvallo is a native of Chile, president of the Latin Comparative Pathology Group, and vice president for Latin America with the Davis-Thompson Foundation, a 50-year-old organization dedicated to the advancement of veterinary and comparative pathology education worldwide.

New lab kick-starts clinical research collaboration at veterinary college , article

Collaboration is key to solving complex problems, and the new Collaborative Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine is helping a wide array of veterinary clinical researchers work together to tackle challenges

New cows at veterinary college enhance learning , article

The cows have come home.The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine recently welcomed several new residents—residents of the bovine variety. The college is now home to 21 dairy cows who will aid in the education of veterinary students.

Veterinary college, Department of Corrections continue to benefit from two-decade partnership , article

Aligned by the common goal of improving Virginia agriculture, the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (VMCVM) and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VDOC) continue to reap the benefits of a partnership now more than two decades old.

Veterinary college employs spectrum of care to improve 11-year-old dog's life after leg injury , article

When Sophie the Newfoundland/golden retriever mix suddenly could not stand on her hind end, owner Angela McCoy Williams of Giles, Va. took Sophie to the emergency services at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH). It was found that Sophie tore her cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in her rear right leg.

"5 Tips for Successful Dog Training" , article

Training your dog is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. It helps to establish boundaries, build trust, and create a positive relationship between you and your furry friend.

Care for dog’s eyes encourages Virginia Tech alumnus to donate to Veterinary Teaching Hospital expansion , article

Mike Carey made a $50,000 pledge to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, getting him onto the Founder’s Wall. But it won’t be his name there, it will be that of his canine companion, Max, along with two members of the ophthalmology team that have helped manage his ongoing eye ailments.

Thorntons support veterinary college from its birth to far in the future , article

More than 25 years before the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine opened, Bill Thornton attended Virginia Tech strongly considering a veterinary career. He didn’t become a veterinarian, but Thornton’s legacy with the veterinary college will continue many years forward.

Veterinary college students help provide safe, affordable spay/neuter services to help end pet overpopulation in Southwest Virginia , article

There is an intense focus, but also cheerfulness, amid the whir and hum in the operating room at the back of Mountain View Humane Spay/Neuter Clinic in Christiansburg, Virginia.Dogs and cats have been brought by clients, by shelters, and by the regional Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for low-cost spay and neuter surgeries, performed by Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine students under the supervision of faculty.

Two veterinary college faculty members author textbook to guide education of next generation of veterinarians , article

Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine faculty members have written a much-needed textbook designed to provide practical advice and guidance for educators teaching the next generation of veterinarians.

Equine Medical Center spreads the word on helmet safety , article

Stefan Duma, the Harry C. Wyatt Professor of Engineering, director of the Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences and co-founder of the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, emphasized the importance of protecting the human head as he talked about research findings on horse riders’ helmets at a recent dinner event at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center (EMC) in Leesburg, Virginia.

Celebrating Excellence: Veterinary College Faculty Recognized for Exceptional Contributions and Impact , article

The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (VMCVM) hosted an awards reception honoring faculty members who have shown exceptional abilities in outreach, teaching, innovation, and advancing veterinary medicine.

Faculty Spotlight: Sophie Bogers , article

Sophie Bogers, BVSc, MVSc, PhD, DACVS–Large AnimalClinical Assistant Professor in Large Animal Surgery

Faculty Spotlight: Rachael Carpenter , article

Rachael Carpenter, Clinical Instructor

Faculty Spotlight: Bobbi Conner , article

Bobbi Conner, DVM, DACVECCClinical Associate Professor, Emergency and Critical Care Medicine

Faculty Spotlight: Jennifer Davis , article

Meet Jennifer Davis, a dedicated faculty member at the veterinary college since 2017. She's not just a teacher; she's a graduate of the college herself, with a deep passion for educating future veterinarians.

Faculty Spotlight: Becky Funk , article

Becky Funk, a faculty member at the veterinary college since 2011, is dedicated to teaching the next generation of veterinarians with a focus on happiness and lifelong learning.

Faculty Spotlight: Jacquelyn Pelzer DVM '97 , article

Jacquelyn Pelzer, a VMCVM alum and committed faculty member since 2009, delights in nurturing veterinary students through their transformative journey. A former professional surfer turned veterinarian, she effortlessly balances diverse roles with style.

Faculty Spotlight: Erin Phoenix '11, DVM '17 , article

Erin Phoenix, a VMCVM alum and faculty member who is excited for the opportunity to grow and support future veterinarians to give back to her profession and alma mater.

Faculty Spotlight: Mindy Quigley , article

Mindy Quigley, Clinical Research Coordinator

Faculty Spotlight: Jamie Stewart , article

Jamie Stewart, DVM, PhD, MS, DACTAssistant Professor in Production Management Medicine

FARAD center helps keeps food safe from drug residue , article

Since 2018, the FARAD center at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine works in tandem with centers in universities across the country to ensure drug residues don’t end up on your plate.

Feline weight-loss study , article

Because implementing weight-loss plans for pets can be challenging, Megan Shepherd, assistant professor of clinical nutrition; Lauren Dodd, clinical nutrition resident; and sponsor Purina set out to discover how owners’ perceptions of their cat’s quality of life were influenced by adding food toys to the cats’ weight-loss regimen.

Growley III gets a clean bill of health from the Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

It takes a village to take care of Growley III, the mascot of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. The cadets work together to take care of the happy-go-lucky labrador, and he receives veterinary care through the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

What Pet Owners Need to Know About Heartworm , article

Heartworm infection is a serious disease that can be fatal if left untreated. It is caused by worms that normally live in animals' heart, lungs, and blood vessels but can migrate to other tissues and organs, including the brain, kidneys, and eyes. These worms grow up to a foot long and can cause organ damage, heart failure, and lung disease. Cats and dogs can both get heartworm, though the disease looks different in the two species.

Chocolate and candy: The hidden Valentine's Day dangers to your pet's health , article

As Valentine's Day approaches, you may be planning to enjoy some chocolates and candies. While these sweet treats delight us, they can pose significant risks to our pets. Understanding what's enjoyable for us but might be harmful for our furry friends is important during this sweet holiday.

Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays , article

Celebrating the holidays can bring a lot of joy, but it can also endanger the health of your furry companions. It’s important to be aware of pet health hazards — especially around the holidays, when the home is filled with new sights and smells like decorations and holiday meals.

Tough talks: At international conference, veterinary student presents research on resuscitation orders and client communication , article

Anna Horowitz, third-year veterinary student at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, recently presented an abstract at the International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Symposium (IVECCS).

New table for CT scanner a ‘game-changer’ for examination of large animals at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

Until recently, clinicians at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine couldn’t use CT, or computed tomography, for large animals. But the recent purchase of an $85,000 table for large animals that can be wheeled to the CT scanner now allows for that option, particularly useful for studying conditions inside the heads of equine animals.

Martha Larson honored with emerita status , article

Martha Larson, professor of radiology in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the title of professor emerita by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

Tanya LeRoith, DVM, PhD, DACVP, MBA , bio

Director, Veterinary Teaching Hospital;Director, ViTALS;Clinical Professor, Anatomic Pathology

Llamas back on farm doing well after emergency C-section at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

A pregnant llama with a twisted uterus. Even with the best of care, there are a lot of things that can go wrong when an emergency Caesarean section is needed in that situation.

5 Things You Need to Know About Microchipping Your Pet , article

Millions of pets in the United States have microchips so they can be returned to their homes if they become lost. A collar and tag with your phone number may be the easiest way for you to be reunited with your pet, but collars can slip off — and a microchip can’t.

New study examines quality of life in mini pigs , article

At the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, researchers want to examine which factors are important when miniature pig owners — also known as “pig parents” — measure their pigs’ happiness.

Veterinary professor Nappier goes back to school to learn how to make school better for students , article

Michael Nappier wants to emphasize the “teaching” part of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. "I’m a college professor who hates school,” said Nappier, clinical associate professor in small animal clinical sciences at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. His solution: Going back to school.

5 Fun Ways to Celebrate National Pet Month , article

Did you know that May is National Pet Month? The VMCVM is full of pet lovers (duh!), so we’re giving you five fun ideas to celebrate the pets in your life.

New animal behavior course helps students discern what dogs tell us without words , article

Buechner-Maxwell, a professor and specialist in large animal internal medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and also certified in shelter medicine, and Erica Feuerbacher, associate professor of animal science and welfare in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), together coordinate the new Companion Animal Behavior and Socialization course.

From big cats to Blacksburg: Li-Jen Chang joins veterinary college , article

Li-Jen Chang recently joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as a clinical assistant professor of veterinary anesthesia and pain management. In this position, Chang will spend most of his time working at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, one of the college’s three hospitals.

Theriogenologist Jessica Cowley joins Production Management Medicine team , article

Cowley has recently joined the veterinary college as an assistant clinical professor. In this position, Cowley is part of the Production Management Medicine (PMM) team, which provides on-the-farm care for animals within a 35-mile radius of Blacksburg. Cowley will teach students completing their PMM rotations.

It’s been a long road to Virginia for veterinary anatomic pathologist Santiago Diab , article

Diab has joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as an anatomic pathologist in the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology. Diab’s research interests are primarily focused on food animal diseases, infectious diseases, and gastrointestinal diseases.

Jessica Dolinger to enhance pharmaceutical care at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

Jessica Dolinger recently joined the college as the pharmacy supervisor, who will oversee the day-to-day operations of the hospital's pharmacy and support clinical services. Her responsibilities include administrative decisions, prescription fulfillment for outpatient and inpatient services, and interdepartmental collaboration to improve processes and care.

Veterinary alumna returns as faculty to work with students, shelter dogs , article

Erin Phoenix (B.S ‘11, DVM ’17) recently joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as a veterinary instructor with the Animal Care for Education team in the small animal clinical sciences department.

New professor wants to improve minority experience at veterinary college, attract more veterinarians to large animal care , article

Troy Holder’s motivations are straightforward. “I like teaching and I like being able to make a difference,” said the newly hired clinical assistant professor in large animal surgery at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

Emily Lawrence joins Animal Care for Education program , article

Emily Lawrence has joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as a collegiate assistant professor in the Animal Care for Education (ACE) program. In addition to working with students in labs, she takes care of the ACE canine instructors.

Veterinary social worker Augusta O’Reilly supports mental health and the human-animal bond , article

Veterinarians, veterinary students, and pet owners have to make difficult choices and have hard conversations, and the grief, trauma, and stress can take a major toll. Over the past two decades, the field has pushed to improve mental health and to create a culture of wellness in order to mitigate high depression and suicide rates among veterinarians. For a growing number of practices and veterinary colleges, veterinary social workers are key contributors to improving wellness.

Laura Parkhurst joins veterinary college amid national shelter crisis , article

Laura Parkhurst has taken on the role of clinical instructor in shelter medicine and surgery clerkship at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine amidst a critical time for animal shelters nationwide.

Veterinary alumna Rebecca Persons joins college as clinical instructor , article

Rebecca Persons has joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as a clinical instructor at the Small Animal Community Practice. The Small Animal Community Practice is part of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, one of the college’s three animal hospitals. The Community Practice provides preventative care to small animals within a 35-mile radius of Blacksburg.

Micha C. Simons joins veterinary college, bringing educational, surgical expertise , article

The veterinary college welcomes Micha C. Simons, associate professor of small animal surgery, in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. With her practice limited to small animal soft tissue surgery, Simons covers everything from gastrointestinal surgeries to diagnostic biopsies to hernia repairs. In addition to performing surgery, Simons is excited to work with veterinary students.

New clinician Songster-Alpin embraces teaching, spectrum of care , article

Mary Songster-Alpin recently joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as a clinical assistant professor at the Small Animal Community Practice. The Small Animal Community Practice (CPRAC) is part of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, one of the college’s three animal hospitals. The Community Practice provides preventative care to small animals within a 35-mile radius of Blacksburg.

Laura Vega joins the veterinary college as a clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine and critical care , article

Laura Vega has joined the veterinary college as a new faculty in emergency medicine and critical care, increasing the number of criticalist specialists in the emergency room and ICU and expanding the emergency capability of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Hanna Wachtel joins emergency department at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

Wachtel recently joined the faculty of the veterinary college as a clinical instructor of emergency medicine. Wachtel will be working with third- and fourth-year veterinary students and seeing emergency cases at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Hoof health is horse health: Newly certified farrier enhances veterinary hospital services , article

Gabrielle Evans, the farrier apprentice at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, has undergone rigorous training, honing her skills in anatomy, physiology, pathology, gaits, horseshoes and more to become an American Farrier’s Association Certified Farrier.

The end of over-the-counter veterinary antibiotics , article

Over-the-counter veterinary antibiotics will require a prescription from a veterinarian in order to purchase them starting on June 11, 2023.

Collaborating with veterinary surgeons in Japan to perform “mini hips” , article

Otto Lanz, professor of small animal surgery at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, recently spent six months in Japan to collaborate with veterinarians on mini total hip replacements.

Kevin Pelzer influences many lives during 36 years at veterinary college , article

Kevin Pelzer’s 36-year teaching and clinical background at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine is primarily in large animal medicine and epidemiology, but one of his most memorable experiences involved something much different.

How Dental Care Keeps Your Pet Healthy and Happy , article

Pets are beloved members of many families, so it's important to ensure that they receive the proper care in order to keep them healthy and happy. One aspect of pet care that is often overlooked is oral health. It’s been estimated that a whopping 85% of cats over the age of three suffer from dental disease!

Preparing Your Pet for a Disaster: Essential Tips from Veterinary Experts , article

Disasters can strike unexpectedly, leaving families and their beloved pets vulnerable and needing immediate assistance. Taking proactive measures to safeguard your pet's well-being by following a few simple steps can ensure their safety and increase the chances of a swift reunion in case of separation.

2023 pet food drive a success , article

Three animal lovers from across the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine came together to organize a pet food drive for three local animal shelters.

Unleashing Paw-some Shots: Mastering Pet Photography , article

Pets hold a special place in our hearts – capturing their adorable antics and unique personalities through photography has become a popular and cherished pastime and even a profession. However, photographing our animal companions can be quite challenging due to their unpredictable antics. Here are some tips to help you get great photos of your furry, feathery, and even scaly friend from our college communications manager and photographer, Margie Christianson.

5 Poison Prevention Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe , article

Poisoning is a leading cause of injury and death in companion animals in the USA. It's essential to stay informed about the most common causes of poisoning and to take steps to prevent it. By being vigilant and taking steps to protect your pet from toxic substances, you can help keep them safe and healthy.

The importance of vaccinating your pet , article

It is often said that prevention is the best medicine — and that’s especially true for pet vaccinations. No pet owner wants to see a furry friend get sick, and as an added bonus, vaccinations are far less expensive than treating a disease.

Production Management Medicine Faculty Members Earn Board Certification , article

Over the past year, two members of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s Production Management Medicine team became board certified by the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, respectively. Recent diplomates Sierra Guynn and Hollie Schramm, both clinical assistant professors, put in countless hours of study and hard work to achieve these accomplishments.

Spectrum of care: Students get hands-on with alternative treatment for canine knee injuries , article

This lab is part of an elective on small animal physical rehabilitation at the veterinary college. The purpose of the class is to introduce the students to a variety of therapeutic modalities, techniques, and alternative treatment methods to support patients with orthopedic and musculoskeletal diseases, and thanks to this education, veterinary students can offer a better spectrum of care for their future patients.

Saving Yoda , article

Justin Ganjei (DVM ’11), a staff surgeon at Veterinary Surgical Centers in northern Virginia, returned to Blacksburg to work with Veterinary Teaching Hospital internist David Grant and surgeon Sabrina “Bini” Barry to collaborate on a fluoroscopy-guided surgical treatment to save an internal medicine resident's cat, Yoda.

Scholarships open doors for Carla Gutierrez in aspirations to become livestock veterinarian , article

Growing up, people tried to discourage Carla Gutierrez ’16 from becoming a veterinarian, telling her that it was too hard. Now a member of the DVM class of 2025, she’s proving her naysayers wrong.

Scholarship helps student pursue equine veterinary medicine , article

Sarah Landeck, a Class of 2027 student at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, is the first recipient of the Maria and David Williams Equine Veterinary Scholarship.

Swimming with ScubaCats: diving course enriches student experience at the Veterinary College , article

Michael Nappier from the veterinary college runs the ScubaCat Project, offering scuba diving courses to the college community. Aimed at promoting wellness and relaxation, the initiative attracts students, faculty, and staff, providing a unique educational and stress-relieving experience away from the rigors of academic life.

Caring for Your Senior Pet , article

As pet owners, we all want our furry companions to have long and happy lives, but as dogs and cats age, their needs change. Let’s look at some common health problems your pet may face in their old age.

Small Animal Community Practice re-energized in its commitment to clients and students , article

Small Animal Community Practice – CPRAC, commonly pronounced “SEE-prak” – is a clinic within the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine that accepts pets from a 35-mile radius of Blacksburg.

Spay clinics give veterinary students early surgery experience, help pet owners at no charge , article

Second-year students in the four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree program at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine are being afforded that rite-of-passage opportunity this semester, all while helping regional pet owners receive free treatment and vaccinations for their dogs and cats.

Staff Spotlight: Carli Dotson , article

Carli Dotson joined the veterinary college in June 2019, initially supporting students and later becoming the administrative assistant for the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences. She values the supportive community at VMCVM and lives by the motto "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Staff Spotlight: Katherine Harshman , article

Katherine Harshman serves as a receiving technician in the ViTALS laboratory at the veterinary college. She plays a crucial role in screening and handling various samples, whether they are for in-house testing, research projects, or specialty reference laboratory send-outs.

Staff Spotlight: Mary Johnston, LVT , article

Mary Johnston, LVT, highlights the power of teamwork in her work at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and shares her inspiring experiences with students pursuing their veterinary careers.

Staff Spotlight: McKinley Mullins , article

Meet McKinley Mullins, the special service client liaison in surgical oncology at the veterinary college. As the team's glue, she seamlessly coordinates with clients, manages finances, and jumps in wherever needed. She cherishes the friendships formed within the college and considers them the best part of her job.

Staff Spotlight: Brittany Patrick , article

Brittany embarked on her veterinary college adventure in May 2019 when she joined the surgery department at VMCVM. Her love for anesthesia led her to make a smooth transition to the anesthesia department in November of the same year. Teaching and nurturing a passion for anesthesia is what truly fuels her.

Staff Spotlight: Katie Reuss , article

Meet Katie Reuss, an experienced large animal veterinary technician at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Katie's role in the college revolves around the care and well-being of horses and she has made it her mission to instill her passion for these majestic creatures in the hearts of aspiring veterinarians.

Staff Spotlight: Kris Wagher , article

Kris Wagher is an Internal Medicine Licensed Veterinary Technician at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Kris finds the best part of her work to be the continuous learning and the supportive "work family" of clinicians.

Staff Spotlight: Angela Webb , article

Angela Webb has been an integral part of the veterinary college for nearly a decade, with 26+ years at Virginia Tech. As the Academic Affairs Office Manager and Event Coordinator, Angela plays a pivotal role in the college's operations and student support.

Stephanie Hall named patient services manager , article

A member of Large Animal Clinical Sciences' patient services team since 2016, Hall began her new role as the Veterinary Teaching Hospital's patient services manager on Feb. 21.

Student Spotlight: Andrea Connor , article

Meet Andrea Connor, a second-year DVM/MPH public corporate tracker who is interested in infectious diseases.

Student Spotlight: Amanda Gabriel , article

Meet Amanda Gabriel, a third-year DVM small animal tracker who loves painting and taking hikes with her dogs.

Student Spotlight: Mary Kalvaitis , article

Meet Mary Kalvaitis, a dedicated third-year DVM mixed animal tracker who is also a licensed veterinary technician.

Student Spotlight: Roger Mack , article

Meet Roger Mack, a fourth-year DVM mixed animal tracker who possesses hidden talents in robotics and baking, refutes the misconception that veterinary studies only focus on disease, emphasizing the importance of preventive health.

Student Spotlight: Natasha Welch , article

Meet Natasha Welch, a third-year DVM small animal tracker who wants to become a small animal soft tissue surgeon.

Veterinary instructors from Kenya, Uganda learn from — and teach — their peers at Virginia Tech , article

Veterinary instructors from the two African nations visited the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (VMCVM) for a week in October to learn about methods and approaches they can apply to teaching veterinary students in their universities.

Former police dog Thor swallows hard for holidays, receives compassionate, life-saving care at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

It’s much easier to get a cloth elf and a plush teddy bear chew toy into a dog than to get them out.But out they came, thanks to the combined efforts of more than 20 personnel at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, within the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, just before the holiday break. Thor’s care was financed by compassionate care donations through Paws of Honor and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital Working & Service Dog support fund.

Physical rehabilitation enhances pets' quality of life , article

When Saint, a retired service dog from Saint Francis Service Dogs of Roanoke, Virginia, began experiencing mobility issues and hind limb weakness, his new owner, Krista Sinnott, was referred to VA-MD Vet Med for physical rehabilitation to improve the 11-year-old’s quality of life.

From Animal Lovers to Vet Techs: How a 30-Year Experienced Technician is Igniting Passion in High School Students , article

Terry Wnorowski is spending the last years of her career sparking new beginnings for others. For 30 years she has worked as a licensed veterinary technician at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

ViTALS selected to fight emerging diseases in national partnership , article

Over the years, Virginia Tech Animal Laboratory Services (ViTALS), the on-site interdisciplinary diagnostic laboratory of the veterinary college, has worked its way up from primarily serving the college’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital to being a part of a national system of disease testing and monitoring. Now, ViTALS has been selected as part of the Partnership to Improve Early Detection of Emerging Diseases.

Pets Can Save Lives Too: Veterinary Teaching Hospital Blood Bank Seeks New Donors , article

Amidst the beeping monitors and busy footsteps of the bustling Veterinary Teaching Hospital, an extraordinary lifeline exists -- a blood bank, where like their human counterparts, dogs and cats regularly donate blood to support their fellow pets in the community.

Veterinary Teaching Hospital makes transition to ezyVet electronic medical record system , article

Replacing four previous computer systems with one sounds like a frightening task to have started on Halloween, but as the winter holiday break approaches, all seems to be merry and bright about the Veterinary Teaching Hospital switchover to ezyVet.

More powerful MRI enhances diagnostic, research capabilities at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

A new Siemens 3-tesla MRI scanner is being installed at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, set to go online for full diagnostic use this month.

Veterinary Teaching Hospital names 2022 Staff Members of the Year , article

The Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine recently named its Staff Members of the Year. Those honored include Amanda Conrad, cardiology technician in the small animal clinic; Missy Stillinger, anesthesia technician in diagnostic imaging and support services; Jenny Robinson, fiscal technician in the business office; and Katie Reuss, lead veterinary technician in the large animal clinic.

From paralysis to championships: Veterinary college supports Belle's agility comeback , article

In a tale of resilience and collaborative care, Belle, a 4-year-old Australian shepherd, made an uplifting return to her beloved dog agility competitions after a harrowing bout of paralysis.

Donkey foal named ‘Hokie’ in honor of lifesaving work of Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

A Smyth County family that roots for Virginia Tech's archrival has a good reason to love a Hokie now, as it's the name of a donkey foal brought back to health at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Jada the Siamese cat saved by challenging brain surgery at Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

Thanks to a four-hour double operation, including complex brain surgery, Jada, a 3-year-old Siamese cat, is beginning to return to her old self.

After backyard snakebite, 12-year-old dog Rusty goes from swollen to smiling with care from Veterinary Teaching Hospital , article

Rusty, a 12-year-old miniature American shepherd, recently faced a life-threatening encounter in his own backyard. A suspected copperhead bite left him in a critical state, but thanks to prompt and specialized care from the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Rusty's story is one of resilience and recovery.

Eye tissue from one dog used to save another dog’s eye at Virginia Tech veterinary hospital , article

Clinicians with the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech used corneal tissue from an eyeball lost by a dog brought into the hospital’s emergency room hours earlier, with consent from the owner, to replace that taken during a surgery to remove cancer from the eyeball of another dog.

Team Tootsie: Veterinary hospital and owners help poodle walk again , article

Tootsie, began to trip and fall in early 2023. Her owner, Mary Jane Barrett of Roanoke, described it as a “belly flop” as Tootsie’s legs stopped working. Tootsie’s primary veterinarian determined that Tootsie’s problem was neurological and referred her to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. By the time Tootsie arrived at her appointment at the VTH the very next day, she was unable to stand up and had to be wheeled in on a gurney.

Keeping an equine athlete at the top of his game , article

The 20-year-old Lusitano owned by horse trainer Katherine Abrams receives veterinary care through Equine Field Service, part of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Thanks to the diligence of his owner, riders, farrier, and veterinary care team, the aging athlete is able to compete at advanced levels.

Golden retriever's life changed by state-of-the-art veterinary procedure , article

Willow, a golden retriever with ectopic ureters was treated at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Willow underwent a minimally invasive procedure using fluoroscopy and interventional radiology. This advanced technique corrected Willow's ureter placement, leading to a quick recovery and significantly improved quality of life.

Sunshine Lahmers awarded 2023 Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award , article

Sunshine Lahmers has won the 2023 Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award. A clinical associate professor of cardiology, Lahmers works with students throughout their veterinary education, from their first year to their cardiology clerkships in their clinical year. Through facilitating discussion and listening to students work through problems, Lahmers gives students time to shine, and it also allows her to pick up on points of confusion.