Research

Development and Dissemination of New Knowledge to Enhance the Well-Being of Sheltered Animals

Practical studies addressing important shelter issues will provide the information required for evidence-based recommendations in shelter medicine. Our projects will focus on issues of particular importance in the southeastern United States. In this region, infectious diseases currently appear to be the most significant threat to the well-being of sheltered animals. In many cases, the source material for our scientific publications is likely to originate in the shelters where we are performing diagnostic and consultative services. We believe that by sharing our findings with the entire sheltering community we can have a much greater impact than by individual consultations alone.

University of Florida researchers have established expertise in infectious disease, population medicine, epidemiology, immunology, anesthesia and surgery, and feral cat populations. We will develop research opportunities for veterinary students, residents, and junior faculty under the supervision of seasoned investigators. This will help expand the capacity to develop sound solutions for critical issues in shelter medicine.

Current Studies: Development of a DIVA Test Strategy for Canine Influenza UF scientists are searching for a method to distinguish dogs that were vaccinated against canine influenza virus from those that were actually infected, a critical step in controlling outbreaks of this highly contagious virus.   Cats Can Wear Collars! Despite the popularity of cats, less than 2% of cats entering animal shelters nationally are ever reclaimed by their owners. One reason for this is that cats are much less likely to have identification than dogs are. In this multi-institutional study, clinicians and pet owners have teamed up to explore the myth that cats cannot safely wear identification collars. Influenza Virus Infection in Dogs in Shelters Is your Florida shelter experiencing outbreaks of respiratory diseases in dogs? If so, there is still time to enroll your shelter in this study to determine the most common infections involved in canine respiratory disease complex. Participation involves testing of dogs for a panel of diseases that plague shelters, including influenza, distemper, Bordetella, coronavirus, and others.   Microchip Use and Scanning Survey In this survey of shelters and veterinary clinics, we’ll learn whether the microchip identification system is a pet’s safety net or a false hope. GnRH Immunocontraception for Humane Control of Feral Cats Getting ahead of feline reproductive potential is a near-impossible task. No matter how efficient our spay/neuter programs are, kitten litters never seem to slow down. UF scientists are investigating a contraceptive vaccine that may enhance our ability to tame cat overpopulation.   Maddie’s Outdoor Cat Program This intensive trap-neuter-return program focused on a single zip code to find out if TNR programs for feral and stray cats actually reduce the burden on animal control agencies as is often claimed.