NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

03/05/2026

When investigating bovine abortion, the type and quality of samples submitted to the laboratory can determine whether a diagnosis is reached. Submitting the appropriate tissues, fluids, and specimens allows the lab to perform the full range of testing needed to identify infectious, toxic, or other causes of disease.

Not sure what samples to collect for a diagnostic investigation?
View our bovine abortion diagnostic resources: https://buff.ly/H1HCVM9
Printable version: https://buff.ly/wAxgGq0

03/03/2026

Respiratory season is still ongoing in our region, and bovine respiratory disease (BRD) continues to be on the mind of producers and veterinarians.

Dr. Steichen, at the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, has put together a detailed article covering what we’re seeing, what’s driving cases this time of year, and how diagnostics can support herd-level decisions.

Check out our latest newsletter for the full article and practical insights for BRD season.
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03/02/2026

02/25/2026

Microbial threats move across humans, animals, and the environment — and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) demands more than a siloed response.

We’re excited to share that NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory staff, Dr. Kelli Maddock and Sarah Gefroh will be featured in the upcoming bioMérieux webinar: AMR Pathways – Episode 1: One Health in Action on March 4 at 12:00 PM CST.

In this opening episode, experts illustrate how One Health principles translate into real-world action — and why veterinary diagnostics and surveillance are essential to protecting human health.

📚 Learning Objectives:
1. Describe the One Health framework and how microbial threats move across human, animal, and environmental ecosystems.
2. Discuss how veterinary microbiology advances AMR surveillance and informs diagnostic and stewardship practices in human health.
3. Identify actionable cross-sector collaboration opportunities — including diagnostics, data sharing, and policy — that strengthen AMR prevention and response globally.

🎓 Earn FREE PACE credits
🖥️ Open to laboratorians, veterinarians, and healthcare professionals
🔗 Register here: https://buff.ly/baqZhe4

AMR is a shared problem. Collaboration is our shared solution.

02/23/2026

We are looking for a DVM or PhD in a related field, with post-graduate training or experience in toxicology, analytical chemistry or nutrition!

For the complete job description and to apply >>> https://buff.ly/mGHTR4p

02/18/2026

📦 Shipping Notice
We appreciate everyone who utilizes our UPS discounted shipping program — it’s a great resource to help keep diagnostic submissions moving efficiently and affordably.

Recently, UPS has flagged several packages for incorrect or leftover hazmat labels, particularly on reused boxes.

‼️ Quick reminder:
Before sending your next shipment, please double-check that all labels on the box accurately reflect the contents. If you’re reusing a box from a prior shipment, be sure any old hazmat markings are completely removed or covered.

Why it matters:
-Incorrect labels trigger shipping delays
-UPS issues citations to NDSU VDL
-Multiple citations could temporarily suspend access to the discounted program (up to 90 days) for both the lab and our clients

We know everyone is juggling a lot — this small step helps protect continued access to the shipping savings program for the entire VDL community. Thank you for your partnership and attention to detail.

02/16/2026

Information about our sample drop-off space: https://buff.ly/pgNpvSd

02/12/2026

Dr. Brianna Stenger, Dr. Quynn Steichen, and Dr. Brett Webb of the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory were recently featured in the North Dakota Stockman (January 2026) for their work on bovine coronavirus (BCoV) — a virus that contributes to calf scours and respiratory disease in cattle of all ages.

Their work found:
• Unusual early-age infections in calves
• Significant intestinal damage in affected animals
• Multiple circulating strains of BCoV in North Dakota

What does this mean for producers?
Vaccination is important, but it’s just one tool. Good colostrum management, biosecurity, and timely diagnostic testing remain key to protecting herd health.

Read the full article “Bovine coronavirus diversity: from pathology to genomic sequencing,” in The North Dakota Stockman, January 2026 edition. https://buff.ly/njXe60e

02/11/2026

Did you know that bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the most common and costly disease affecting the North American beef cattle industry?

Read more about BRD in our Winter Newsletter: https://buff.ly/PlqsYUX or learn about our BRD PCR assay and aerobic culture guidelines here: https://buff.ly/tVAj74q

02/06/2026

🕵️‍♀️ Mystery Case Time!

A young cat with progressive neurologic signs and weight loss. Necropsy showed poor body condition, reddened meninges/cerebrum, and striking renal lesions—multifocal tan cortical foci and an adherent, thickened capsule. Other organs were grossly unremarkable.

🔬 Histopathology revealed widespread disease:
Severe meningoencephalitis/ventriculitis, interstitial pneumonia, nephritis, enteritis, and endophthalmitis.

🧪 What tests would you run? What’s your tentative diagnosis?
👉 Dive into the full case: https://buff.ly/C6aNWAm

💬 Share your diagnostic reasoning below!