NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

11/20/2025

11/20/2025

🚨 Multi-State Equine Herpes (EHV/EHM) Outbreak Update 🚨

The ND State Veterinarian’s Office has been notified of an ongoing EHV/EHM outbreak linked to recent barrel racing and rodeo events in Texas and Oklahoma. Several neurologic (EHM) cases and equine deaths have been confirmed in those states.

📍 No confirmed cases in North Dakota at this time.
NDDA is coordinating with affected states and will contact owners directly if trace information indicates exposure.

If your horse recently traveled to TX, OK, or other events where exposure may have occurred, call 701-328-2655.

Key guidance for exposed horses:
• Isolate for 21 days after last possible exposure
• Avoid shared equipment & limit horse-to-horse contact
• Monitor temperature twice daily and watch for respiratory or neurologic signs
• Contact your veterinarian if any symptoms develop

Event organizers: Consider the risks of hosting equine events during an active multi-state outbreak; strengthened biosecurity or postponement may be necessary.
Horse owners: Talk with your veterinarian before traveling—EHV can be shed even by horses that appear healthy.

For more information or to report concerns, contact the ND State Veterinarian’s Office at 701-328-2655.

11/19/2025

It’s U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week!
Preventing (AR) starts with recognizing how closely human health is connected to the health of animals and the environment—we all have a role to play.

To learn how animal owners, producers, and veterinarians can help reduce the development of AR, visit the CDC’s webpage: https://buff.ly/CE2QSM3.

Let’s work together to keep antibiotics effective for the health of every species!

11/17/2025

Ever wonder how West Nile virus shows up in different species? 🦟
Our Fall Newsletter breaks down 2025 WNV activity, cases diagnosed at the NDSU VDL, clinical signs, and key diagnostic findings.

📖 Give it a read and stay informed!

11/12/2025

We're celebrating our amazing team! 🎉

Several of our staff members recently collaborated on an a VDL investigation published in ASM Case Reports- advancing veterinary science and antimicrobial resistance understanding through collaboration and innovation.

Congratulations to our contributors: Dr. Brianna Stenger, Dr. Kelli Maddock, Dr. Heidi Pecoraro and Sarah Gefroh along with Daniel Evans of the MN Department of Health and Dr. Alyssa Breuer from Dakota Veterinary Hospital.

Read the article here: https://buff.ly/vYMkIKu

11/11/2025

We are closed today, November 11, in observance of Veteran's Day.
For samples not requiring a hoist, please use our refrigerated depository. More information can be found here: https://buff.ly/8Xw3zYr

11/10/2025

Make sure you’re using the most up-to-date submission forms! From toxicology and surgical pathology to general testing, having the right form helps ensure smooth processing. Find everything you need here: https://buff.ly/tE7AuD5

11/06/2025

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is an insect-borne viral disease affecting deer and occasionally cattle. It’s transmitted by biting midges (gnats) and often appears in late summer and fall.

The VDL offers testing for EHD to provide confirmation of clinical suspicions, support effective monitoring and aid in differentiating EHD from other hemorrhagic or vesicular diseases producers and veterinarians can confirm cases quickly and take action.

For sample submission guidelines or diagnostic support, please check our website: https://buff.ly/YxALzTJ or contact our laboratory directly

Our laboratory director, Dr. Pecoraro can be seen here sporting her midge costume for Halloween!

11/05/2025

The NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory will be closed Tuesday, November 11 for Veteran's Day. Please plan your shipments to the laboratory accordingly.

10/30/2025

Rhodococcus equi is a serious bacterial pathogen that primarily affects foals between 1-6 months of age, causing severe pneumonia, abscesses, and sometimes even intestinal or joint infections. Illness can also affect older animals, although less commonly. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and preventing herd-level spread.

🧫At NDSU VDL, we offer bacterial culture for reliable identification. Rhodococcus equi is a common differential for foals exhibiting respiratory symptoms. The typical wet, pink colony morphology is a key feature (see image).

Early testing is key!
✅ Enables timely, targeted antibiotic therapy
✅ Helps identify subclinical cases before outbreaks occur
✅ Supports proactive herd health management

Partner with our diagnostic team to protect your foals this season.
📩 https://buff.ly/Q5poObq

10/29/2025

💡 Why Testing Matters for Your Herd

Raising livestock is a big investment — and every decision impacts your bottom line.

A medium steer today might be worth around $2,000, and a lamb nearly $200. But when animals get sick, the costs can add up quickly:
💉 Antibiotics – $190-530/vial
👩⚕️ Plus: vet visits, time, and other animals that may get sick too.

A diagnostic workup (necropsy, culture, PCR, etc.) usually costs $150–$200 on average — a small step that can help you pinpoint the problem fast, guide treatment, and prevent bigger losses down the road.

Knowing why animals are sick helps you make smarter decisions for herd health and your wallet.