Infectious disease modelling teams invited to strengthen global response to highly pathogenic avian influenza
An international modelling challenge is calling on experts across disciplines to help tackle one of Europe’s — and the world’s — most pressing health threats: highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The initiative, which is now open for applications, seeks to improve outbreak modelling readiness and to foster international collaboration among researchers and decision makers from academic, government, and other backgrounds worldwide.
Plant-Based Dog Foods Aren’t Alone in Falling Short of Nutritional Guidelines, says New Study
A new U.K. study finds that no commercial dog foods—plant-based, meat-based, or veterinary—fully meet adult dog nutritional guidelines. Researchers analyzed 31 “complete” dry diets and discovered gaps in amino acids, minerals, and B-vitamins, with plant-based foods notably low in iodine and B-vitamins. While supplementation can help, the findings highlight the need for veterinarians and pet owners to evaluate nutrient intake and consider dietary adjustments. Published in PLOS One, this research provides critical insights into the nutritional adequacy of dog foods and informs safe, balanced feeding practices.
When Anti-Parasitics Meet Wild Hosts: Rethinking Veterinary Treatments in Aquatic Species
This study investigates how veterinary anti-parasitic treatments affect wild European chub (Squalius cephalus) and their naturally occurring acanthocephalan parasites. Using bithionol, a common anthelmintic in aquaculture, researchers observed behavioral changes in fish, including increased opercular movements and altered spatial positioning, while key physiological markers remained unaffected. Surprisingly, acanthocephalan parasites showed no reduction in abundance, size, or reproductive output, suggesting potential resistance or environmental factorsaffecting drug efficacy.
From Lemonade Stands to Vet School: The Rise of Micah Howze
Micah Howze, a second-year veterinary student at Mississippi State University, is pursuing her passion for mixed animal medicine, exotics, and practice ownership. Originally from Ridgeway, SC, she is dedicated to serving underserved communities, advocating for diversity in veterinary medicine, and addressing challenges like burnout and mental health. Her mission is to foster stronger bonds between animals and people while inspiring the next generation of veterinarians.
H5N1 Avian Influenza Detected in Texas Dairy Herd; Sick Child Source Investigation in California Remains Unclear
H5N1 avian influenza has been confirmed in a Texas dairy herd, raising total U.S. herd infections since 2024 to 1,079. Recent outbreaks also include commercial turkeys in South Dakota and North Dakota. Meanwhile, investigation into a California pediatric H5N1 case suggests environmental exposure rather than poultry consumption. Veterinarians are urged to monitor livestock for unusual signs, implement biosecurity measures, and support One Health surveillance to mitigate interspecies transmission.
Botulism Outbreak Under Investigation in UK Cattle Herds
Significant losses from suspected botulism have been reported in cattle across Essex, Northamptonshire, and Shropshire. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) are investigating, with contaminated feed identified as a likely source. Affected feed has been withdrawn from sale.