Dr. McFarlane, a large animal internal medicine specialist with research interests in equine endocrine diseases, will begin her new role at UF on December 15.

Knowledge gained by working with equine performance horses may lead to advanced studies that result in improved clinical outcomes for all horses. The opening of the new facility is estimated to take place next spring.

Whether the new deadly bacteria is a recently introduced organism or has been present but not recognized is unknown. Florida has the most invasive reptile species of any state and it is possible that an invasive reptile species introduced the pathogen, UF scientists said.

The procedure was conducted for the first time in Florida at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine’s Small Animal Hospital. Dr. Stan Kim, who performed the surgery, is one of only 12 veterinary surgeons worldwide who are trained in the technique.

The UF College of Veterinary Medicine has received a two-year grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to start a mentoring program for high school students from underrepresented populations, aimed at recruiting those students into the veterinary profession.

The appointment represents the first time the American Heartworm Society has offered a board role to a veterinary nurse. Board members serve a three-year term.

The annual symposium highlights the essential role of scientific research in veterinary medicine and provides veterinary medical students who have conducted original research through the summer scholars programs an opportunity to formally present their research in a professional environment.