AU VETS TO TRAVEL TO LOUISIANA TO HELP CARE FOR KATRINA’S ANIMAL VICTIMS

“Seven of our veterinarians will help provide shelter and care for pets that have traveled with their owners from flooded areas and for rescued animals,” said Dr. David Whitley, head of AU’s Department of Clinical Sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine. “Dean (Timothy) Boosinger is pleased to provide support, and the university administration is giving them time off for the trip.”

Michael Groves, dean of the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, sent a request to veterinary schools and associations seeking assistance.

“It is during times of adversity and tragedy that people must come together,” Groves wrote. “The School of Veterinary Medicine, along with state and local animal organizations, wants to do its part by caring for as many animals as possible. Please help us in our efforts.”

Auburn veterinarians helped provide care for dogs and cats at either the Parker Coliseum on the LSU campus or at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales, La., where animals are being sheltered. They also helped with horses being kept on the LSU veterinary campus.

Public donations can be made to the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association by calling 1-800-524-2996 or (225) 928-5862. A donation form is also available at its Web site at www.lvma.org. Checks or money orders can be made payable and sent to the Dr. Walter J. Ernst Jr. Veterinary Memorial Foundation (write Disaster Relief Fund on the memo line), 8550 United Plaza Blvd., Suite 1001, Baton Rouge, LA 70809.