AKC Supports New Theriogenology Residency at Auburn University

AUBURN UNIVERSITY – The Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine will have a new residency in veterinary reproductive medicine for companion animals funded through a charitable gift from the American Kennel Club and the Theriogenology Foundation.

Auburn is one of three veterinary medical programs in the U.S. – and the only one in the South – to receive funding, which will enhance Auburn’s national reputation in theriogenology, or reproductive medicine, in both large and small animal medicine. The other recipients are the University of Pennsylvania and the University of California Davis.

The initial philanthropic investment of $100,000, made through the Auburn University Foundation, will support one resident for three years and provide specialty training in all aspects of veterinary reproductive medicine and surgery, as well as all features of clinical practice related to male and female reproduction, obstetrics and neonatology in companion animals.

“This new residency program for companion animals will expand our nationally recognized programs in theriogenology and reproductive system research and education,” said Dr. Calvin Johnson, dean of the Auburn veterinary college. “Nearly 50 years ago, Auburn faculty made pioneering contributions in equine and bovine reproduction and this new residency program will accelerate the advancement of the excellent work our small animal theriogenologists are currently involved in.

“The AKC and the Theriogenology Foundation are making a significant financial commitment to train veterinarians to address this important discipline and we look forward to expanding research, education and clinical practice in small animal reproduction, Dr. Johnson said.”

“Theriogenology is often seen as an ancillary service and few private-practice clinics offer the services of a reproductive specialist, which is why the AKC decided to invest in training more veterinarians in this field,” said Alan Kalter, American Kennel Club chairman of the board.

“The AKC and the Theriogenology Foundation recognize a joint commitment to breeding as an invaluable tool for the continued improvement of the genetic health of dogs,” Kalter said. “We are thrilled to establish this program, which we hope will bear a greater understanding of and respect for the purpose-bred dog.”

The mission of the Theriogenology Foundation is to secure and allocate resources dedicated to advancing the science and practice of animal reproductive medicine.

Theriogenology Foundation President Dr. Anita Migday, said, “The Theriogenology Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the American Kennel Club/Theriogenology Foundation Companion Animal Residency in Theriogenology at Auburn University. This program represents the starting point for a strong collaborative effort between our organizations. This program will graduate veterinarians with special expertise in genetics, surgery and the clinical application of small animal reproductive medicine.”

“The three residency programs aimed at companion animals will bring emphasis to clinical training and the role of genetics and how theriogenologists play into that research,” said Dr. Charles F. Franz, Theriogenology Foundation executive director.

“Purpose-bred dogs such as those that help people with physical disabilities, detect explosives or engage in sporting events have traits that are genetically determined,” Dr. Franz said. “The rapidly changing world of clinical theriogenology and genetic testing has given dog breeders the tools to produce healthier litters and puppies with predictable aptitudes and temperaments.”

The resident will work closely with Dr. Robyn Wilborn, Dr. Aime Johnson and Dr. Julie Gard, as well as Dr. James Floyd, interim director of the Animal Health and Performance Program.

“Auburn’s reputation stands alone in the field of theriogenology,” Dr. Wilborn said, naming faculty like Dr. Robert Hudson and Dr. Donald Walker, who brought worldwide recognition for excellence in bovine medicine as early as the mid-1960s, and current faculty Dr. Robert Carson, Jr. and Dr. Dwight Wolfe, both of whom have been awarded the Society for Theriogenology’s highest honor, the David E. Bartlett Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theriogenology.

Charitable gifts from corporations and foundations – as well as those from alumni and friends – in support of Auburn University are made through the Auburn University Foundation. To make a tax-deductible, charitable donation to Auburn, go to www.auburn.edu/giving or learn more about the full scope of philanthropic opportunities that can benefit the university at https://develop.auburn.edu/how/.

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Posted by chesliepickett on Feb 19 2014. Filed under Breaking News, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.