Practical Demonstrations

Although we cannot hold in-person wet labs this year, we are excited to present practical demonstrations, lead by experts in various disciplines! These will be live-streamed on either the 20th or 21st of March.

Dr. Getchell performing a fish necropsyDr. Rodman Getchell, PhD
Fish Necropsy Demonstration
This Laboratory exercise will demonstrate the basic necropsy procedure used with a fish diagnostic sample. Achieving an accurate diagnosis requires adequate diagnostic laboratory resources, trained staff, knowledge of fish anatomy, and appropriate specimens. The procedure will include proper euthanasia, external exam, blood draw, gill biopsy, skin scrape, opening the coelomic cavity, bacterial culture from posterior kidney, complete examination of internal organs, collection of tissue samples for viral isolation, molecular assays, and histopathology, and standardized recording of all observations made. A discussion of follow-up procedures will include: culture, ID, & antibiotic sensitivity of bacteria; culture & ID of viruses; identification of parasites; evaluation of histopathology; and evaluation of case history.

Dr. Amy B. Todd-Donato, DVM
Small Mammal (Ferret) Imaging Techniques
This practical demonstration will showcase various imaging techniques in small mammals, with a focus on ferrets. We will show ultrasound technique, and radiographs. This is a demonstration with opportunity for questions and discussion. Diagnostic imaging is an imperative tool in veterinary medicine, no matter where your career may take you. In this lab, you can learn imaging techniques, reading, and interpretation with Dr. Todd-Donato.

Dr. Sara Childs-Sanford (DVM, MS) , Dr. Cynthia Hopf (DVM), and Dr. James Morrisey (DVM)
Avian Emergency Procedures and First Aid
Planning on spending any time in clinical practice treating avian patients? If so, don’t miss this foundational session! This lab features discussion and demonstration of basic clinical techniques that are essential in the veterinary care of wildlife patients, and applicable to all aspects of zoological medicine. With an emphasis on avian species, topics presented include physical examination, medication administration (oral and injectable), gavage, and bandaging.

Dr. Noha Abou-Madi, DVM, MSc
Turtle Shell Repair
In the turtle shell repair demonstration, learn how to repair broken and damaged carapaces! Dr. Abou-Madi has worked closely with zoos and the Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Center. Technique is very important when repairing broken shells, in order to ensure long-term success and minimize chances of infection. Join Dr. Abou-Madi and learn about special techniques when dealing with exotic species!

Dr. Ricardo de Matos, LMV, MSc
Reptile Radiography Techniques
In this virtual lab, we will review cases of common reptile species presenting with common clinical conditions with a special focus on imaging modalities. After a brief interactive presentation of each case, participants will be organized into small groups where they will have the opportunity to explore the case, review the diagnostic images available for each case and while working through the case, learn more about reptiles, their common clinical diseases and the advantages and limitations of the different imaging modalities.

Dr. Elizabeth Buckles, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Mammal Necropsy
This practical demonstration will outline the basic necropsy procedure performed on mammals. Dr. Buckles will point out any species-specific structures, common diseases that affect these species, and the anatomical changes you can see on necropsy.