School of Veterinary Medicine Seeks Help with Animal Recovery

A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

            We at the School of Veterinary Medicine, like everyone else
in the country, are overwhelmed by what we have seen on the news in the
wake of Hurricane Katrina.  In an effort to help our colleagues and
fellow citizens, the School is working with the Louisiana Veterinary
Medical Association, the Louisiana Animal Control Association, and the
Louisiana SPCA to provide shelter and care for those pets that have
traveled with their owners from the flooded areas and animals that have
been rescued from those areas.

            The School's faculty, staff and students are volunteering
their time at the Parker Coliseum on the LSU campus and the Lamar-Dixon
Expo Center in Gonzales, La., where animals are being sheltered.  This
is not something that will end in a few days.  The School will require
on-going support from the community.  We desperately need volunteers,
especially veterinarians and veterinary technicians, to help us in this
effort.  Non-veterinary volunteers are also welcome, though only those
people that have been vaccinated for rabies will be able to work
directly with the animals.

            The animal shelters are in dire need of large crates and
cages.  The volunteers also need ice, beverages and food.  Other animal
supplies, such as food, cat litter, pooper scoopers, vaccines,
antibiotics, bandages, and catheters are also welcome and needed.
Monetary donations can be made to the Louisiana Veterinary Medical
Association by calling 1-800-524-2996 or 225-928-5862.  You can also
download a donation form at the LVMA website at www.lvma.org, or send a
check or money order made payable to the Dr. Walter J. Ernst, Jr.
Veterinary Memorial Foundation, 8550 United Plaza Blvd., Suite 1001,
Baton Rouge, LA 70809.

            It is during times of adversity and tragedy that people must
come together.  The School of Veterinary Medicine, along with state and
local animal organizations, wants to do our part by caring for as many
animals as possible.  Please help us in our efforts.  Veterinarians and
veterinary technicians who want to volunteer assistance can contact Dr.
David Senior at the School of Veterinary Medicine at 225-578-9551 or
dsenior@vetmed.lsu.edu.  Non-veterinary volunteers can contact the
School of Veterinary Medicine at 225-578-9900.  Thank you for your
prayers and support.

Sincerely,
Michael G. Groves, DVM
Dean
School of Veterinary Medicine
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Phone:  (225) 578-9900
Fax:  (225) 578-9916
Web:  www.vetmed.lsu.edu