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WelcomeDear Friends,

Welcome to the first edition of the Equine Hospital Newsletter. As a service to our clients and referring veterinar-ians, the newsletter will be published twice annually and provide you with an update on what’s happening at the Colorado State University Veterinary Medical Center’s Equine Hospital.

The last few years have seen a number of changes at the Equine Hospital. Some of our faculty mem-bers have retired or relocated, new faculty have been brought on board, new services are being offered, and new facilities are in the works. We hope the Equine Hospital Newsletter will help bring you up to date on what’s going on and where we are heading. We are definitely looking forward to exciting times ahead.

Best Regards,Dean Hendrickson, DVM, Chief of Equine Hospital Section

IndexWelcome .............................................�Equine Hospital a Part of CSU History ....................................�New Facilities ......................................3MRI Gives Clear Picture ......................4Spring Tips ..........................................5West Nile Virus ....................................6Meet the Faculty and Residents ........7Hoofnotes .........................................�0How to Reach Us ..............................��Calendar ............................................�2

Since the Earliest Days, Equine Hospital an Integral Part of CSU

The role of horses in the lives of humans has changed dramatically over the years, as has the medical technology to care for them and the demands of a society more concerned with the welfare of all animals. When Colorado State University was founded in �870 (then as the Colorado Agricultural College – CAC), horses were the primary form of civilian transportation and were used extensively in the military to move troops and equipment.

The horse was a central element in urban life, hauling goods, pull-ing cabs, and powering the carriages of the social elite. Horses were part of the increased reliance of humans on animals in the �9th century that brought on the establishment of schools of veterinary medicine throughout Europe and America, including a fledgling program at CAC. After a shaky start, the Department of Veterinary Science was permanently established in �907. The original hospital, which focused by necessity on equine and food animals, was located at the Laurel Street Complex (where Ammons Hall is today).

1912 – Dr. Benjamin F. Kaupp, Director of the new Pathology Laboratory, helps stop a devastating outbreak in horses in the Arkansas Valley of an unknown disease by developing an experimental vaccine from infected brain tissue. The disease is later identified as cerebrospinal meningitis.

The 20th century brought radical changes to the horse world. In �9�5, as the horse population in America peaked at

more than 2� million, immense numbers of horses were sent to the World War I battlefields of Europe. This export de-creased America’s horse population, which then continued to decline with the advent of the internal combustion engine. Then the horse entered a relatively new phase of purpose. Equine populations rebounded and stabilized and now, instead of being

a beast of burden, the modern horse enjoys major roles in recreation, organized competition, and human companionship. Many breeds of horses, once endangered, are now being revived, and systematic breeding is raising the quality of horses to previously unseen levels.

1915 – Dr. Harry Kingman, Professor in the Department of Veterinary Science, takes the first radiograph of a horse’s hoof.

Along the way, the Equine Hospital Section at the College of Veterinary Medi-cine and Biomedical Sciences, changed as well. In the early days, equine doctors were more concerned with infectious diseases, unable to do much for broken limbs, torn ligaments, or twisted innards. World War I

(continued on page 2)

Equine Hospital Newsletter Colorado State University Veterinary Medical Center Knowledge to Heal Spring 2006 Volume 1, Edition 1

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greatly impacted the advancement of equine veterinary medicine. The Veterinary Corps of the United States Army was established in �9�7 and veterinarians graduating from Colorado Agricultural College served in bringing horses and mules abroad for military use and caring for the animals, while others devoted themselves to meat inspection.

1937 – Dr. James Farquharson, Head of the Department of Surgery, presents a milestone paper before the Section of General Practice at the 77th Annual Meet-ing of the AVMA in Washington, D.C. His paper, “Abdominal Surgery in the Horse,” advanced the concept of aseptic surgery in large animals at a time when this approach was generally regarded as costly and unnecessary.

On the Main Campus, in what looks now like an impossibly small building, the Equine Hospital shared precious space with all the veterinary programs. This new hospital was completed in �923 (the first build-ing constructed specifically for the then Department of Veterinary Medicine). The veterinary school rapidly outgrew its facilities. In �940, the Veterinary Medicine Building was completed to provide for more classroom and laboratory space.

1950 – George H. Glover Hospital opens, featuring state-of-the-art large animal stalls with hayrack, feed bowl, and automatic drink-ing fountain.

In �950, the George H. Glover Hos-pital was completed in the heart of Main Campus with, for the first time, a large animal receiving area and a small animal receiving area. Three equine programs were in place – Equine Internal Medicine, Equine Surgery and Equine Field Service – and most of the cases clinicians saw were colic, soft tissue injuries and dental concerns.

As the main campus grew up around the Glover Hospital, it became increas-ingly obvious that a new location was needed. Programs were expanding rapidly and horse trailers were not compatible with bicycles and pedestrians. The battle was on, both politically and internally, to construct an expansive new hospital on the South Campus that would include indoor and outdoor stalls, equine surgical suites, an arena for evaluation, laboratory space and more. In �979, the Equine

Hospital Section began a rapid expansion that coincided with the opening of the new Veterinary Teaching Hospital on the Colorado State University South Campus and the advent of new technologies in human and veterinary medicine.

1979 – New Veterinary Hospital opens with plenty of growing room for the Equine Hospital.

“We saw the growing sophistication of our clients in the care they demanded for their horses, reflected in the care we were able to provide,” said Dr. Dean Hendrick-son, Equine Hospital Section Chief and �988 graduate of the Colorado State Professional Veterinary Medical Program. “With the expansion of arthroscopy and other endoscopic techniques, we were able to enhance horse health. At the new hospital, we had space to expand with new faculty, new equipment and more treat-ment space.”

1995 – Minimally invasive laparoscopy offered at CSU. Arthroscopy had been in practice since the early 1980s.

Equine medicine also saw an increase in the number of specialties including or-thopedics, sports medicine, reproduction, minimally invasive surgery, diagnostics,

neonate and critical care, and sub-special-ties such as dermatology, dentistry and ophthalmology. Most recently, the Equine Hospital Section established a dedicated Critical Care Service to provide 24-hour care to critical and emergency patients.

“The sub-specialties have been espe-cially exciting to watch develop because they have improved the overall health and well-being of our equine patients,” said Dr. Hendrickson. “Orthopedic research is a much bigger part of our program as is minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopy and arthroscopy. Dentistry has seen the advent of power tools to help manage equine dental problems. We have flexible endoscopy to help evaluate lung disease, and we use ultrasound a lot more. We have progressed to the point where we can offer many more ways to help, to provide more efficient diagnostics, and to treat with better therapies.”

The Equine Hospital Section is now focusing on the future, with plans in the works to build new facilities to enhance teaching, research and outreach in the field of equine medicine (see related article on page 3). From its rich history, it is creating a prosperous future.

Equine Hospital an Integral Part of CSU, continued from page 1

Students and faculty evaluate a mare and her foal at the CAC Veterinary Hospital (circa 1940).

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Equine Hospital Plans for the Future with Proposed New Facilities

When the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital opened in �979, the equine facilities were considered spa-cious and state-of-the-art. Fast forward almost 30 years, and those same facilities are crowded with new programs, new equipment, and an expanded clinical and teaching staff. As part of the South Cam-pus Expansion plan, new equine facilities will be built as private donations become available through The Hope, The Care, The Cures capital campaign. The plan includes:

• The existing Agricultural Animal/Am-bulatory areas will be demolished and reconstructed at a new location to make room for new equine facilities. Existing agricultural animal paddocks also will be relocated.

• A separate Equine Isolation/Critical Care Unit building (Building 4 on the Long-Range Site Plan) will be constructed just east and north of the present Equine Medicine barn area. The barn area will be remod-eled into half surgery suites and half stalls. Equine Sports Medicine will be housed in the southeast corner of the existing barn.

• The new facility will incorporate dedicated space for equine teaching laboratories for veterinary students and for equine continuing education programs for practicing veterinarians.“The critical care facility will be a

two-story building with isolation and semi-isolation units, and a common work

area in the center, on the first floor,” said Dr. Dean Hendrickson, Assistant Professor of Equine Surgery and Equine Hospital Section Chief. “The second level will house lockers, classroom, and a lounge area. One of the really interesting aspects of the design is that we will have a walkway all

around the second level that will allow us to look down into the isolation stalls and monitor animals without disturbing them. Our critical care service is really expanding and this additional space will address the most pressing needs we have in providing care for critically ill horses.”

The planned expansions and reno-vations will enable veterinary teams to be concentrated by specialty, not into equine surgery or medicine, as is the case now. More space will allow for additional radiograph equipment, ultrasound and a farrier on site.

The cost of new construction and remodeling for the Equine Hospital is estimated to be $�4 million. Dr. Hendrick-son said he hopes to raise $20 million to include support for two endowed chairs.

“We have a long way to go in the fundraising arena, but I’m confident that we have a solid plan and clear direction for our future,” said Dr. Hendrickson. “With private support, we can have one of the finest equine medical facilities in the nation, something that will benefit all horse owners.”

1. ExistingJamesL.VossVeterinaryTeachingHospital

2. DiagnosticMedicineCenter 3. Wards/Rounds/2ndYr.PVM 4. EquineIsolation/CCU 5. EquineSportsMedicine 6. AgriculturalAnimalHospital 7. AgriculturalAnimalIsolation 8.AgriculturalAnimalAmbulatory 9. CommunityPractice/Dentistry/Zoological/

Office

10. Research/Vivarium11. Research/Vivarium12. LargeAnimalResearch13. CoveredRing/EquineStalls14. ExistingLaboratory/Office15. ExistingGailHolmesEquineOrthopedic

ResearchCenter16.FutureBuildingand/orDMCExpansion17.HayStorage18.HayStorage19.Maintenance/Shop/Equipment

South Campus

Surgeons at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital perform a laparoscopic procedure on an equine patient. The monitor in the background shows real-time images from the laparoscope.

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MRI Gives Clear Picture of Horse’s Disabling Injury Magnetic Resonance Imaging has

become an increasingly popular tool in veterinary medicine. Veterinarians are discovering the many ways in which MRI is able to enhance diagnostic capability to the benefit of the injured horse. Earlier and more accurate diagnoses mean better treatment with more positive outcomes.

The advantages of MRI are apparent almost every day at the Equine Hospital, which uses the Equine Orthopaedic Research Laboratory’s MRI facility. Dr. Natasha Werpy, Joint Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences and the Orthopaedic Research Center, is the radiologist who conducts and reads the MRIs. Dr. Laurie Goodrich points to a particular case that shows the diagnostic capabilities of MRI and how it is enhancing equine medicine.

“MRI illuminated very clearly

what the problem was for this horse

and allowed us to begin a treatment

program with a better chance

of success.”

“In 2004, we had a horse, Amigo, present with lameness in both front feet, with the left front foot having the most noticeable lameness,” said Dr. Goodrich, Assistant Professor in Equine Surgery and Lameness. “Foot issues are a common cause of lameness and result in an inability to use the horse for its intended purpose.”

Amigo, a 9-year-old quarter horse used for Western showing, reining and cutting, initially had diagnostic nerve blocks (DNB) done. This process helps veterinarians localize the source of pain. Through DNB, CSU clinicians determined that Amigo was lame in both feet. As part of the normal work-up, radiographs (X-rays) were then taken to assess the bone structure of the foot.

“Of horses with caudal heel pain,

60 to 70 percent have soft tissue

injuries that we won’t see with

radiographs because they only

determine bone structure.”

“The radiographs revealed that the bones of the foot, specifically the navicular bone, were normal. Based on the x-rays and the lameness exam, shoeing changes were recommended along with rest,” Dr. Goodrich said. “This improved the lameness, but Amigo was back a year later with recurrent lameness again diagnosed to the foot. Repeat radiographs confirmed that the bones of the foot did not have any abnormalities. An MRI was recommended to aid in diagnosis.”

The MRI used at Colorado State features a �.0 Tesla magnet that allows for very high resolution images of soft tissue. Horses must be anesthetized and placed on their side. Dr. Goodrich said that when the Orthopaedic Research Center consid-

ered standing MRI units, the resolution simply was not high enough to give the ac-curacy in diagnosis that veterinarians and their clients desired. Dr. Goodrich noted that “the high quality of image the �.0 Tesla magnet affords is well worth anesthetizing the horse.” In this case, the MRI was done the week following the radiographic exam and clearly showed deep digital flexion lesions (tears) in both feet.

“MRI illuminated very clearly what the problem was for this horse and allowed us to begin a treatment program with a better chance of success,” said Dr. Goodrich.

Amigo was fitted with corrective shoes with wedge pads by CSU farrier and veterinarian Dr. Shawn Olsen and put on six months rest. Ultrasound was used to monitor Amigo’s progress. Six months after the MRI, the lameness was 50 percent improved and the lesions were healing. Without MRI, Dr. Goodrich noted, it’s likely the lesions would have worsened before being properly diagnosed, reducing the likelihood of a positive outcome.

“Of horses with caudal heel pain, 60 to 70 percent have soft tissue injuries that we won’t see with radiographs because they only determine bone structure,” said Dr. Goodrich. “MRI allows us to make an earlier and more accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment before injuries become too severe.”

Because of a horse’s build a lot of pressure is put on a relatively small foot, creating an effective structure for running, but also setting the stage for soft tissue injuries that can create lameness. New diagnostic technologies and treatments are helping owners help their horses before these athletes suffer irreparable harm.

The MRI on the left shows deep digital flexion lesions. The hoof on the right is normal.

Amigo undergoes an MRI scan.

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Spring: Time to Check That Saddle, Examine Those Teeth and Update Vaccinations

For most riders, springtime is a great time to get back in the saddle. The horses have been lazing around in the barn or in the pasture all winter, and now sunny days and warmer temperatures beckon. But, before you head out on the trail – or to the show – be sure your horse is ready, willing and able. Dr. Joe Stricklin, Equine Field Service Veterinarian with the Equine Hospital Section, shares a few tips to get owners and their horses off to a healthy start this spring.

Shape UpOwners shouldn’t start using their

horse hard after the horse has been laid up all winter. This is especially true for horses in stalls or paddocks. Slowly work your horse into a conditioning program, allowing muscles and ligaments to build up. Horses are athletes that need to be put into shape, noted Dr. Stricklin. Trying to do too much too soon can result in injury.

Check Those Teeth, Feet and Eyes

The importance of a dental check-up cannot be overstated. Dental health can dramatically affect a horse’s performance and overall health. Sharp points on teeth can cause ulcers inside the cheeks and cuts on the gums, causing pain and sore-

ness. Uneven wear and dental abnor-malities can create chewing problems. Dr. Stricklin said that when a horse appears to be fighting the bit, stubborn and ill-be-haved, the problem often is a sore mouth. Depending on the horse, teeth should be checked every year, though some with more chronic problems should be checked every six to eight months.

Make sure the feet are in good shape and well balanced. Improper balance

causes a lot of injuries, so work with a good farrier. Also, with all the winter and spring winds, this is the time of year vet-erinarians see an increase in blocked tear ducts. This causes a dirty eye discharge and is uncomfortable for the horse, but can usually be flushed out and drained to correct the problem.

Is That Saddle a Bit Tight?Check the condition and fit of your

horse’s tack. Dr. Stricklin notes that saddle fit is one of the most overlooked causes of back pain. An ill-fitting saddle can result from changes in a horse’s body contour that can affect fit. Also, keep saddle pads clean and free from shedding hair that can form hard, dry spots and lead to bacterial skin infections.

Vaccinate Before Hitting the Road

Springtime means more horses on the road and congregating at shows – ideal environments for the spread of infectious diseases. Make sure your horse’s vaccina-tions are up to date. Vaccinations should include EWT (encephalitis and tetanus), West Nile virus (though cases have declined dramatically, you still need to protect your horse), equine influenza and equine rhino. Also, be sure your horse is regularly de-wormed with a daily or monthly de-wormer.

Take care of your horse, and he’ll take good care of you!

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While Less Worrisome, West Nile Virus Still a Threat to Equine Populations

In the summer of �999, West Nile virus (WNV) appeared in the United States. The outbreak was centered in New York City, where 62 people were clinically infected with encephalitic disease and profound muscle weakness. While seven people died during the �999 outbreak, many more were subclinically infected. The disease was initially diagnosed as St. Louis encephalitis virus, another mosquito-borne virus of people known to occur in the United States.

However, the outbreak was not restricted to people, and St. Louis enceph-alitis does not cause disease in animals. Specifically, exotic birds (Chilean flamingos, cormorants, bald eagles and snowy owls) at the Bronx Zoo died of encephalitis, along with thousands of crows in the greater New York City area, and there were 22 equine cases (�3 deaths) on nearby Long Island.

First isolated in the National Veterinary Services Laboratories from a variety of avian tissues, researchers soon realized they were dealing with something much more complex than St. Louis encephalitis virus. Before much longer, a definitive I.D. of West Nile virus was made and scientists and researchers were helpless to stop the virus as it infected a naïve (never before exposed to WNV) population.

Electron micrograph of West Nile virus

“It’s clear that the virus extended its geographical range greatly during the years following its introduction to this country, with extension from Maine to Florida along the East Coast and all the way to the Pacific Coast by the end of 2002,” said Dr. Gabriele Landolt, an Assistant Professor in Equine Medicine at the Equine Hospital. “The year 2002 was the most devastating year in regard to WNV infection in humans and animals; there were 3,989 human cases and �5,257 equine cases (with a 20 percent to 30 percent mortality rate). 2002 also saw an extension of the clini-cal host range of WNV to include many birds-of-prey, as well as a small number of cases in dogs and wolves, alpaca, reindeer, alligators/crocodiles, harbor seals and other species.”

While the incidence of WNV has de-creased over time as the virus has become endemic, it is still a concern for humans and their horses. This year, as mosquito season approaches, horse owners are questioning whether to vaccinate or not, or whether their horse may already have immunity. The short answer is that it’s best to vaccinate. Though the likelihood of infection levels like those seen in 2002 are unlikely, West Nile virus is here to stay and can cause severe illness or death in

infected horses. Annual vaccination has been proven to protect equines, and should be a part of any preventive care program (in a manner similar to Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV). It’s important to note that horses vacci-nated against Eastern equine encephalitis, Western equine encephalitis and Venezu-elan equine encephalitis are not protected against West Nile virus. Also, the risk of contracting WNV is greater than EEEV or WEEV so it makes sense to vaccinate.

“In horses, WNV encephalitis is characterized by a sudden onset of ataxia, weakness, paresis (often affecting the hind limbs first), complete recumbency and death,” said Dr. Landolt. “Fever occurs in some but not all cases. A substantial percentage of horses infected with WNV in the United States have succumbed to the disease.” (In equines, WNV has a case fatal-ity of between �7 percent and 39 percent, according to various studies.)

Currently, there are two licensed West Nile virus vaccines. The first vaccine against WNV in horses became available in August 200�. As of early 2004, there are two equine WNV vaccines (a killed virus vaccine and a canary pox-vectored recombinant vaccine) available in the United States. The vaccine does not apparently induce the production of IgM antibodies, so acute infection and vaccination can still be differentiated by comparing the results of IgM capture ELISA antibody assays. Lack of complete vaccination is an important risk-factor for WNV infection in horses, but complete vaccination does not replace the need for vigilance in mosquito control.

To help protect your horse, and yourself, from West Nile virus, decrease your animal’s exposure to adult mosquitoes. Get rid of mosquito breeding pools by eliminat-ing any potential source of standing water, including old tires, and replacing water often in wading pools, bird baths and other containers that do not self-drain. Use of mosquito repellents also is appropriate. You can get more information on West Nile virus by visiting the Animal and Plant Health In-spection Service (APHIS) Web site at www.aphis.usda.gov. In addition, for up-to-the minute maps of WNV activity in the United States – down to the county level – go to http://westnilemaps.usgs.gov.

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Meet the Equine Hospital’s Faculty and ResidentsFacultyDr. Dean A. Hendrickson

Dr. Hendrickson is an Associate Pro-fessor of Surgery and Chief of the Equine Hospital Section. He joined Colorado State University in �994, coming to CSU from the University

of Wisconsin. Dr. Hendrickson practices in equine general surgery and lameness. His specialties include minimally inva-sive surgery (including laparoscopy, ar-throscopy, flexible endoscopy and laser surgery), wound care, and foot diseases. He also has had the opportunity to work on many mega-vertebrates including black and white rhinos, elephants and hippopotami.

This summer, Dr. Hendrickson will participate on a research project looking at elephant vasectomies. In September, he will travel to Brazil for a lecture, ad-dress the American College of Veterinary Surgeons in October, and conduct various continuing education courses at CSU in the fall. In his spare time, Dr. Hendrickson enjoys the outdoors, particularly hiking, hunting, and camp-ing, and he is an avid shooter.

Dr. Gabriele A. LandoltA relative new-

comer to the Equine Hospital Section, Dr. Landolt came to Colorado State University from the University of Wiscon-sin in 2005. She is an Assistant Professor

in Equine Medicine, and occasionally is on clinics in food animal medicine. Her interests include infectious diseases, neonatology, and endocrine and meta-bolic diseases. Her research focuses mainly on cross-species transmission of influenza A virus, in particular viral and host factors that led to the recent equine-to-canine transmission.

In addition to her clinical duties and research programs, Dr. Landolt takes part in student rotations, classroom teachings and student labs. In Septem-ber, Dr. Landolt will be participating

in continuing education programs and the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association’s conference. Born and raised in Zurich, Switzerland, Dr. Landolt enjoys hiking, downhill skiing, fondue and chocolate.

Dr. Joe B. StricklinDr. Stricklin was

in private practice in Abilene, Texas, before coming to Colorado State University in �999 as an Equine Field Service Veterinarian. The field service

goes on calls around Northern Colorado providing lameness exams, pre-pur-chase exams, dentistry, acupuncture, chiropractic, and routine care including vaccinations, reproductive work, and some minor surgical procedures. Senior students accompany the field veterinar-ians, getting a feel for private practice outside the university setting.

“I love the teaching aspect of what I do now,” said Dr. Stricklin. “I think I give the students a perspective of veterinary medicine they don’t often get in the uni-versity setting as I have been in private practice a long time before coming to the school.”

Dr. Stricklin also teaches Equine Disease Management, an undergraduate course, and has other lectures in the professional curriculum. Dr. Stricklin and his wife Lori have two children. He enjoys working with his own horses and roping with his son Kyle, 20. He also en-joys water and snow skiing, motorcycles, flying his powered parachute, golf, and watching his daughter Kaci, �8, play her high school sports.

Dr. Jennifer MacLeayDr. MacLeay is an

Assistant Professor in Equine and Food Animal Medicine and came to Colorado State University in �999 from the Uni-versity of Minnesota. Dr. MacLeay teaches

in the second, third and fourth year Professional Veterinary Medical Program

curriculum and has clinical duties in equine and food animal medicine. Her research interests include equine muscle diseases, osteoporosis and nutritional acid-base metabolism.

Dr. MacLeay is married and has an �8-month old daughter. She enjoys horseback riding and sings in a four-part harmony chorus. Her upcoming speaking engagements include the 6th International Symposium on Nutritional Aspects of Osteoporosis in May, in Lausanne, Switzerland. In June, she will be attending the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum in Louisville, Ky.

Dr. Diana M. HasselDr. Hassel is an

Assistant Professor of Equine Emer-gency Surgery and Critical Care, coming to Colorado State University in 2004 from the Univer-sity of California,

Davis. Dr. Hassel is charged with the development and management of the new Equine Critical Care service that provides 24-hour emergency care for horses. She is currently completing a fellowship in Equine Emergency and Critical Care to eventually become board certified in that discipline, in addition to Equine Surgery. The eventual goal is to develop an approved residency training program in Equine Emergency and Criti-cal Care at CSU.

Her upcoming speaking engagements include the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association’s Annual Convention in September where she will be presenting on abdominal ultrasound in the colic patient and updates on critical care and the management of colic in horses. In addition to her responsibilities at CSU, Dr. Hassel is an avid Ironman triathlete and has completed �0 Ironman compe-titions. She is the 2002 age-group world champion at Ironman Hawaii.

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Dr. Lutz GoehringDr. Goehring

joined Colorado State University in 2005 as an Assistant Professor in Equine Medicine. He comes to the Univer-sity from Utrecht University, The

Netherlands. His responsibilities include teaching, research and patient care in the Equine Hospital. This spring, Dr. Goehring will be speaking at a confer-ence in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and in September he will be participat-ing in equine continuing education courses at the Colorado Veterinary Medi-cal Association’s annual conference in Keystone.

Dr. Laurie GoodrichDr. Goodrich is an

Assistant Professor in Equine Surgery and Lameness. She came to CSU in 2005 from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Goodrich is an

equine general surgeon for the elec-tive surgery and lameness service. She is board certified with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. Her interests include joint disease, lame-ness, arthroscopy, fracture repair and management, laparoscopy, neoplasia, upper airway disease, wound healing, and pain management. She also men-tors surgery residents including working with them on a variety of research projects. Her research is focused on the musculoskeletal system, specifically cartilage healing and cartilage repair. She is currently using growth factor gene therapy modalities to promote cartilage regeneration. Her laboratory is located in the Gail Holmes Equine Orthopaedic Research Center.

Outside of the Equine Hospital, Dr. Goodrich keeps active with a variety of sports including white water kayaking (she is certified to teach with

the American Canoe Association), mountaineering (she has climbed to the summit of Mount Rainier in Washington State and Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa), and triathlons. She owns and rides her own horses, and has ridden all disciplines including hunter/jumper, dressage, and western pleasure. She will be participating in the equine continuing education courses at the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association’s annual conference this September in Keystone.

Dr. Gary M. BaxterDr. Baxter is

a Professor and Assistant Depart-ment Head in the Department of Clinical Sciences, and a board-certified veterinary surgeon with the American

College of Veterinary Surgeons. Dr. Baxter came to Colorado State Uni-versity in �990 from the University of Georgia Veterinary School where he was on the staff as a large animal surgeon. Dr. Baxter received his veterinary training at the University of Pennsylvania, which he followed with a large animal intern-ship, surgical residency training and a master’s degree from the University of Georgia.

At the Equine Hospital, Dr. Baxter’s responsibilities include PVM education, equine surgery residency training, and clinical services. His clinical specialties include equine lameness and orthope-dics including arthroscopy, as well as his general surgery work. His research is focused on musculoskeletal conditions. He also participates in the yearly equine lameness continuing education course given at CSU and at the annual meeting of the American Association of Equine Practitioners. He currently is taking the Medical Acupuncture Course for Veterinarians and will be certified in May 2006. Dr. Baxter and his wife Margaret, who is a small animal veterinarian in Windsor, Colo., have three daughters. During the winter months, he serves as a high school basketball referee.

Meet the Faculty and Residents, continued from page 7

FacultyDr. Bruce Connally

Coming to Colorado State University in 2004 from a private practice in Wyoming, Dr. Connally is now a clinical instructor in equine medicine and is one of two faculty

members in the Equine Field Service. He works with Dr. Stricklin, responding to calls from around Northern Colorado, doing everything from dentistry, well-horse check-ups, reproductive services, and minor surgeries.

Dr. Connally has two grown sons who live in Wyoming, and loves working with his own horses, especially for team penning competitions. In his spare time, he enjoys relaxing with wood work and leather carving.

Dr. Eileen SullivanDr. Sullivan

joined Colorado State University in 2002 as an Assistant Professor in Equine Surgery and Critical Care, coming from the University of Pennsylvania – New

Bolton Center. She is a clinician for the Large Animal Emergency and Critical Care Service.

Dr. Sullivan grew up in Southern Illinois, a graduate ‘A’ pony clubber and member of the Boskydell Pony Club. She began her veterinary training at the University of Illinois and then went on to do an Equine Internship at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky. She received further training in large animal surgery at the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, Ken-nett Square, Penn. She obtained board certification by examination from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) in 2003.

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ResidentsDr. Ty Wallis

Dr. Wallis is one of five residents with the Equine Hospital Section, currently working toward com-pleting a residency in equine surgery and lameness. This program is a

combined three-year residency/master’s program, which upon completion will satisfy the requirements to sit the board exam for the American College of Veteri-nary Medicine. He comes to Colorado State from Oakridge Equine Hospital in Edmond, Okla., where he worked as an intern after graduating from Texas A&M with his DVM.

As a resident on the surgery service, Dr. Wallis is part of a team comprised of the faculty surgeon, occasionally another resident, and multiple equine nurses. The team carries out clinical diagnosis, therapeutics, patient care and surgery, and student instruction. Residents also are responsible for taking most of the client information calls and some referring veterinarian calls. Other responsibilities include after-hours surgical, medical, and ophthalmic emer-gencies, as well as some food animal surgical cases.

Dr. Wallis’ clinical and research inter-ests include equine orthopedic surgery, lameness, and upper airway problems. He is married to Dr. Becca Wallis, who is also a veterinarian. His hobbies include skiing, mountain biking, fly fishing, hunt-ing, backpacking and playing golf.

Dr. Jaci LawlerDr. Lawler is a

second-year resident in Equine Internal Medicine, and a 2003 graduate of the Colorado State University Profes-sional Veterinary Medical Program.

She returns to CSU from Ocala, Florida, where she completed a medicine and surgery internship at Peterson and

Meet the Faculty and Residents, continued from page 8

Smith Equine Hospital. At CSU, she is focusing on neonatal care, internal medicine cases and equine emergencies. Her particular area of interest is equine neonatal medicine and intensive care. Her research work involves investigating equine neonatal clostridiosis and the use of a product called Bio-Sponge for treatment and prevention. In May, Dr. Lawler will be attending the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Annual conference in Louisville, Ky., where she will present two of her research projects.

Dr. Lawler and her husband Chris live in Mead, Colo., and also own a small business in Denver called Relax the Back. She enjoys skiing, horseback riding (especially jumping and training young horses), and gourmet cooking. Her equine background includes training and showing three-day eventers and show jumpers.

Dr. Carl SofflerDr. Soffler is a

first-year resident in Equine Internal Medicine, coming to Colorado State University in 2005 from Manor Equine Hospital in Monkton, Maryland, a private

ambulatory and referral practice where he completed an internship. Dr. Soffler is a graduate of Cornell University, where he received his DVM. While at Cornell, he conducted research with Dr. John Hermanson on the muscle fiber com-position and architecture of the equine suspensory ligament.

Currently, he is responsible for equine internal medicine patient care and management, and clinical instruc-tion of fourth year PVM students. His research work involves investigating oxidant injury and potential antioxidant therapies in horses. When not at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Dr. Soffler enjoys spending time with his wife and one-year old son, as well as racquetball, hiking and nature photography.

Dr. Sam HendrixDr. Hendrix is a

third-year resident in Equine Surgery. He graduated from the PVM program at Colorado State University and then went on to complete an internship at Ari-

zona Equine Medical and Surgical Centre in Gilbert, Ari. At CSU, his primary duties include surgery and lameness evalua-tions in large animals. Dr. Hendrix is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys hiking, biking, skiing and riding horses.

Dr. JoLynn JoyceDr. Joyce came

to Colorado State University in 2004 from Texas A&M University where she received her DVM. She is a resident in Equine Surgery and Lameness and

is participating in the three-year com-bined residency/master’s program. Her responsibilities include fulfilling require-ments for a graduate degree as well as completing the necessary prerequisites to be board eligible for the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. Her clinical duty includes primary case responsibility and care of hospitalized patients, diagnosis and treatment of lameness, assisting a faculty member or serving as primary surgeon on surgery cases, mentoring students, and after-hour emergency medicine.

Since her move to Colorado, Dr. Joyce has come to love the mountains, snowboarding and hiking. Growing up, she competitively showed western performance horses and raised racing quarter horses. She has three special animals in her life: Mojo, a 3-year-old cutting horse; Leftover, a Mammoth donkey; and Bo, a �3-year-old chocolate lab and one of Dr. Joyce’s heroes.

We’re Calling to Check Up on You (and Your Horse)!

If your horse has been seen in the Equine Hospital, expect a call �0-to-�4 days after your visit from Julie Roselle, an Equine Nurse. Julie follows up with each client to check on their horse’s well being and to answer any questions or concerns the owner may have. She updates your animal’s chart, so your horse’s veterinarian knows their status. If Julie misses you, or you wish to contact her, you can reach her at 970-297-4�29.

Horse Doc Competes in Ironman Hawaii Competition, Places Second in Age Group

Congratulations to Dr. Diana Hassel, an Assistant Professor of Equine Emergency Surgery and Critical Care, for her successful swimming/biking/run-ning of the Ford IronMan World Cham-

pionship triathlon event held October �5 in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

The IronMan consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a ��2-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run (full marathon distance). Dr. Hassel completed the course in a time of �0 hours, �4 minutes and �7 seconds. Out of �,743 total competitors and �,688 finishers, she placed 490th overall and took second place – out of 64 women – in her age group. By the way, the oldest finisher was Robert McKeague, 80 years young.

ACVIM Provides Veterinarians, Owners Comprehensive Information on Strangles

Strangles is a highly contagious disease in horses, donkeys and ponies caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi (Strep. equi). The name strangles comes from the strangled breathing sounds ill animals make as a result of nasal discharge and lymph node swelling in the head and neck. For veterinarians and owners seeking additional information on the disease, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine has made available a Consensus Statement on Strangles.

Though written for the veterinary doctor, horse owners will find valuable information in the publication as well, helping them to understand the disease and better protect their horses. To view the consensus statement, go to www.acvim.org and click on ACVIM Consensus Statement. Scroll down to “Streptococcus equi Infections in Horses: Guidelines for Treatment, Control, and Prevention of Strangles” and click on the title. A horse owner’s guideline to strangles is in the development process at CSU, and should be available in the near future.

Therapy Offers New Hope for Subchondral Cysts

Subchondral cystic lesions are a fairly common problem in horses that can present a therapeutic challenge to equine surgeons. The cysts are commonly seen in the medial femoral condyle in the stifle of young horses. Subchondral cysts are particularly challenging to treat in quarter horses and American paint horses, most likely due to the larger amounts of weight these types of horses carry on their hind legs. Drs. Ty Wallis, Laurie Goodrich and other orthopedic surgeons at the Equine Hospital Section and Orthopaedic Research Center are investigating a newer treatment technique to determine its effectiveness.

“Conventional therapy includes debriding the cysts at surgery,” said Dr. Wallis, an Equine Surgery Resident. “Disadvantages of this therapy include a six-month recovery period, loss of a significant portion of the articular cartilage on the weight-bearing portion of the stifle, and a risk of the cyst enlarging.”

Subchondral cysts are

particularly challenging to treat

in quarter horses and

American paint horses.

Dr. Wallis and his colleagues are retro-spectively investigating a newer technique used at CSU for about five years. In this technique, corticosteroids are injected arthroscopically into the lining of the cyst. Potential advantages include minimal disruption of the articular cartilage, less risk of the cyst enlarging, the ability to return to training in a much shorter period of time, and a similar or greater chance of success as compared to debridement. Early results from the study are encouraging. Final results will be provided once the study is completed.

(continued on page 11)

Radiograph of subchondral cystic lesion.

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Clip and Save – CSU Equine Hospital Section: Who We Are and How to Reach Us

Faculty

Dr. Gary Baxter, Equine Surgery, 491-1817, gary.baxter@colostate.edu

Dr. Bruce Connally, Ambulatory Equine, 297-4272, bruce.connally@colostate.edu

Dr. Lutz Goehring, Equine Medicine, 297-4246, lutz.goehring@colostate.edu

Dr. Laurie Goodrich, Equine Surgery, 297-0376, laurie.goodrich@colostate.edu

Dr. Diana Hassel, Equine Emergency and Critical Care, 297-4271, diana.hassel@colostate.edu

Dr. Dean Hendrickson, Equine Surgery, Section Chief, 297-0369, dean.hendrickson@colostate.edu

Dr. Gabriele Landolt, Equine Medicine, 297-4146, gabriele.landolt@colostate.edu

Dr. Jennifer MacLeay, Equine and Food Animal Medicine, 297-4458, jennifer.macleay@colostate.edu

Dr. Joe Stricklin, Ambulatory Equine, 297-4580, joe.stricklin@colostate.edu

Dr. Eileen Sullivan, Equine Emergency and Critical Care, 297-4035, eileen.sullivan@colostate.edu

Residents

Dr. Sam Hendrix, Equine Surgery, 297-4413, samuel.hendrix@colostate.edu

Dr. Jolynn Joyce, Equine Surgery, 297-0368, jolynn.joyce@colostate.edu

Dr. Jacquelin Lawler, Equine Medicine, 297-0392, jacquelin.lawler@colostate.edu

Dr. Carl Soffler, Equine Medicine, 297-4587, carl.soffler@colostate.edu

Dr. Ty Wallis, Equine Surgery, 297-4585, ty.wallis@colostate.edu

Day Nursing Staff

Kim Ellis, Barn Supervisor, 297-4471, kimberly.ellis@colostate.edu

Claire Wilson, 297-4471, claire.wilson@colostate.edu

Krista Dickinson, 297-4471, krista.dickinson@colostate.edu

Julie Roselle, 297-4129, julie.roselle@colostate.edu

Surgical Nurses

Kimberlee Alexander, 297-4532, kimberlee.alexander@colostate.edu

Lynette Johnson, 297-4532, lynette.johnson@colostate.edu

Debbie Popichak, 297-4532, debra.popichak@colostate.edu

Equine Emergency Hours Nursing Staff

Kathy Casper, 297-4471, kathryn.casper@colostate.edu

Jessica Morgans, 297-4471, jessica.morgans@colostate.edu

Kristina Perry, 297-4471, kristina.perry@colostate.edu

Kit Struthers, 297-4471, kit.struthers@colostate.edu

Reception Staff

Nancy Karraker, 297-4471, nancy.karraker@colostate.edu

Beth Heiney, 297-4472, elizabeth.heiney@colostate.edu

Nurse Supervisor Manages Large Animals at Hospital, Even Larger Ones at Home

Kim Ellis, Large Animal Nurse Supervi-sor at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, has worked with equines of all sizes, from miniature horses to quarter horses, thoroughbreds to Tennessee walk-ers, but her latest equine venture dwarfs them all – Ellis is working with a team of four black Percheron draft horses.

All together, the team’s classes

include four-horse hitch, unicorn

hitch, team classes, junior classes

and training for six-horse hitch.

Ellis and her team competed in Janu-ary at the National Western Stock Show and came away with a few wins. She began working with the Percherons in November 2005, along with family and friends, and Larry and Mary Hansen have made a home for the four gentle giants. The team, known as the Prospect Percherons, also com-peted in Big Thunder at The Ranch (Larimer County Fairgrounds). Right now, the four original draft horses are enjoying their temporary off season until July, when they start back up training and showing again with two new team mates. Ellis’ draft horse classes consist of pairs, cart and obstacle. Her ultimate goal is to master tandem (two horses in line) and unicorn (three horses). All together, the team’s classes include four-horse hitch, unicorn hitch, team classes, junior classes and training for six-horse hitch. The Prospect Percherons hope to travel throughout Colorado doing what they all love, competing and showing.

Hoof Notes, continued from page 10

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Veterinary Medical CenterEquine Hospital Section�620 Campus DeliveryFort Collins, CO 80523-�620

NONPROFITORGANIZATIONU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFort Collins, Colorado 80523

Permit Number 19

Equine CalendarMay 31-June 3 – American College of Veterinary Internal Medi-cine Forum in Louisville, Ken. Numerous Equine Hospital faculty presenting. For more information go to: www.acvim.org.

Aug. 21 – Fall semester beings at Colorado State University

Sept. 10-12 – Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Annual Convention in Keystone, Colo. Numerous Equine Hospital faculty presenting. Also, 20 Year Reunion for DVM Class of �986; 25 Year Reunion for DVM Class of �98�; and 35 Year Reunion for DVM Class of �97�. For more information go to: www.colovma.com. Reunion information at www.cvmbs.colostate.edu/ development/alumni/.

Sept. 17-21 – International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Symposium in San Antonio, Texas. Numerous Equine Hospital faculty and staff presenting. For more information go to: www.iveccs.org.

Sept. 26 – Equine Limb Ultrasound Continuing Education Course. For more information go to: www.cvmbs.colostate.edu/clinsci/ce/.

Sept. 27-29 – Diagnosis and Treatment of Lameness in the Horse Continuing Education Course. For more information go to: www.cvmbs.colostate.edu/clinsci/ce/.

Oct. 5-7 – Colorado State University Homecoming Weekend. DVM Class of �956 celebrates 50 years. Reunion information at: www.cvmbs.colostate.edu/development/alumni/.

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