Purdue University Veterinary Medicine: A Hub of Innovation
Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine continues to lead the way in groundbreaking research and education. Recent events and achievements highlight the college’s commitment to One Health and Well-Being, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and impactful discoveries.
One Health & Well-Being Research Event
The recent One Health and Well-Being Research Event, a celebration of interdisciplinary health research, showcased the incredible work of scholars within the College of Veterinary Medicine. Organized in partnership with the College of Health and Human Sciences, the event drew over 300 attendees to the Purdue Memorial Union on March 10th. More than 140 posters were presented, covering research on the health of animals, plants, humans, and the environment. A significant 16 posters featured the work of students and post-doctoral researchers affiliated with the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Poster Competition Winners
- Graduate Student Competition – Gold: Ying-Cheng Chen (Department of Basic Medical Sciences), Mentor: Dr. Marxa Figueiredo
- Graduate Student Competition – Silver: Gabriel Harris (Department of Basic Medical Sciences), Mentor: Dr. Marxa Figueiredo
- Postdoctoral Researcher Competition – Gold: Chayan Sharma (Department of Comparative Pathobiology), Mentor: Dr. Christopher A Rice
Beyond the Classroom: Experiential Learning
Purdue Veterinary Medicine extends learning beyond the traditional classroom. Students recently gained unique insights into the livestock industry with a behind-the-scenes pass to the Ram Trucks PBR Indianapolis presented by Cooper Tires, held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This experience, coinciding with the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, provided a valuable real-world perspective.
Remembering Dedicated Faculty & Alumni
The Purdue Veterinary Medicine community mourns the loss of Dr. Gerald D. Bottoms, Professor Emeritus of Veterinary Physiology, who passed away on February 24, 2026, at the age of 95. We also remember Dr. Jeffrey Hanssen, an alumnus and longtime practitioner, who passed away on March 12, 2026.
Important Pet Health Alert: Lily Toxicity
A critical warning for cat owners: Lilies (both true lilies and daylilies) are highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts – a petal, pollen, or water from the vase – can cause fatal kidney failure within days. The FDA issued a warning in 2021 due to the severity of this threat. Learn more about lily toxicity from the FDA.
Global Veterinary Health Initiatives
Purdue Veterinary Medicine recognizes the importance of global health and encourages students to participate in study abroad programs. The Veterinary Technology Distance Learning Program (VTDL) offers opportunities to study in Guatemala, Japan, and Zimbabwe, fostering a global perspective on veterinary care. “Study abroad enriches our online curriculum by bringing classroom concepts to life in a global, real-world context,” says Addison Sheldon, the college’s director of global engagement.
Upcoming Events & Continuing Education
Mark your calendars! The annual Spring Open House at Lynn Hall will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Purdue Veterinary Technician Symposium, a popular continuing education program, also saw strong attendance this spring, attracting over 125 participants from multiple states.
Success Stories: Ruby’s Recovery
Ruby, a toy poodle, underwent successful surgery and bone grafting at the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital to repair fractured front legs. Her recovery demonstrates the dedication and expertise of the veterinary team.
Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance
Purdue University’s Antimicrobial Resistance Conference continues to grow in importance, attracting increasing interest in its interdisciplinary approach to tackling this critical global health threat.
Contact Information: Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, 765-494-7607. Visit Purdue University’s website.
