University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine

06/03/2026

All eyes on these Collie cuties!

Our Ophthalmology team recently performed an OFA Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) exams on these litters of smooth and rough-coated Collie puppies.

For breeds predisposed to inherited eye conditions, routine eye exams are more than just a checkbox—they’re a critical part of responsible breeding. Our Ophthalmology service offers CAER exams to help breeders and their clients make informed decisions and produce healthier dogs. These specialized exams, performed by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists, can detect early signs of genetic eye diseases—often before symptoms are visible.

During a CAER exam, we perform a thorough front-to-back evaluation of the eye, looking for subtle changes such as extra eyelashes (distichia), lens abnormalities, or retinal irregularities that may be passed on to future generations. Early detection allows for better management options and more informed breeding decisions.

Pre-breeding eye exams do more than help ensure you’re getting a healthy puppy—they play a vital role in improving the overall health and longevity of the breed as a whole.

🔗 Learn more about our Ophthalmology Services: https://ugavetmed.com/4dKlqfu

06/02/2026

Join us for a complimentary reception for all friends, faculty, alumni, and donors on Friday, July 10th from 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM at Ruth's Chris Steak House — just a 10 minute walk from the Anaheim Convention Center!

Join fellow Vet Dawg alumni and supporters for an evening of networking, reconnecting, and conversation while enjoying drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

➡️ Registration ends July 2nd!

🔗 Register here: https://ugavetmed.com/3PT4FH5

06/01/2026

The Clinical Skills Lab is where confidence begins.

Open 24/7, this hands-on training space allows our students to practice essential techniques, build muscle memory, and prepare for real-world patient care from day one.

This August, 156 new future veterinarians will receive their white coats and take the oath that begins their journey at the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Through our White Coat Note project, a gift of $50 or more directly supports the Clinical Skills Lab—and gives you the opportunity to share a note of encouragement with the Class of 2030.

🔗 Learn more: https://ugavetmed.com/433vYRZ

05/29/2026

A deadly combination of fungal, parasitic and bacterial infections could push certain species of snakes toward extinction, according to new research.

The researchers swabbed and analyzed more than 500 wild snakes representing 29 species across the southeastern U.S. and found that 44% of the reptiles tested positive for multiple pathogens.

As with many wildlife diseases, the researchers are concerned about the risks of spillover. The more these pathogens move through wild snake species, the more likely it is that the diseases can trickle into species that are already in jeopardy.

🔗Read more: https://ugavetmed.com/4veN0sb
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📸: Taylor Miller

05/28/2026

Veterinarians play a vital role beyond patient care—they are also leaders, innovators, and business owners in their communities.

Help us celebrate Dawg-led success by nominating an alumni-owned business for the Bulldog 100, recognizing the 100 fastest-growing businesses led by UGA graduates.

Submit your nomination by July 31st!

🔗 Learn more and nominate today: https://ugavetmed.com/4pwv6is

05/27/2026

Gully visited the Zoological Medicine team for an eye exam after presenting with squinting and suspected head trauma. The 3-year-old African Bullfrog received a full ophthalmic exam and abdominal ultrasound to rule out other causes of discomfort.

Thankfully, no severe injury was noted. Doctor’s orders? Ribbit, rest, recover.

05/26/2026

A single tick bite can do more than ruin a hike — it can completely change the way someone eats and lives. A new UGA Research story highlights the growing concern around alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy linked to red meat, and the researchers working to better understand and prevent it.

🔗 https://ugavetmed.com/4tJEnVv

 Infectious Disease | May 19, 2026May 20, 2026 | 9 MIN READ The bite that can rewrite your diet—and the researchers trying to fight it By John Tibbetts The lone star tick, the most prevalent species in Georgia, is a primary transmitter of alpha-gal sugars to humans. It’s an aggressive tick di...

05/24/2026

In observance of Memorial Day, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital will be open for emergency services only on Monday, May 25, 2026. If your animal experiences a medical emergency, please contact our Emergency Services at (706) 542-3221.

Our Pet Health Center and Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories in both Athens and Tifton will be closed on Monday.

Normal business hours and operation will resume Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

05/21/2026

In addition to this year’s DVM graduation, was proud to recognize Marena Fleming (DVM ’26) during a special Active Duty Promotion to Captain Ceremony held on the front steps of the college.

Promoted to Captain and commissioned as a Field Veterinary Officer in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, Dr. Fleming’s ceremony was conducted by Chaplain Colonel Jim Fisher.

Dr. Fleming was a recipient of the Army Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), a three-year scholarship that provides funding for veterinary school in exchange for a commitment to serve on active duty following graduation. She will serve in veterinary public health, food protection, and the care of both government- and privately-owned animals.

05/21/2026

In honor of World Bee Day, honey bee expert was recognized as one of the top four experts in honey bee medicine. Dr. Jörg Mayer explores how honey and bee venom may be used in advancing oncology treatments.

May 20 annually raises awareness about the role of pollinators in maintaining a healthy planet.