U of C expands diagnostic services for livestock

The University of Calgary’s Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) has launched a new telepathology service and expanded diagnostic testing options, offering Alberta livestock producers enhanced veterinary-supported disease investigation and surveillance.

“This is a very positive development for our industry here in Alberta,” says Karin Schmid, Beef Production and Extension Lead with Alberta Beef Prodcuers.

“Having more diagnostic tools and specialist support available can help producers and their veterinarians get answers sooner when there’s a health concern. Producers who are interested in using these services should discuss it with their veterinarian, who can access these services on their behalf.”

The telepathology service, which opened February 2, allows DSU pathologists to support field necropsies remotely in real time. Using video technology, a DSU pathologist can virtually join a licensed veterinarian on farm during a necropsy, offering immediate consultation before tissue samples are submitted for laboratory analysis.

The service is available for production animals, including beef and dairy cattle, small ruminants, pigs, poultry (including small flocks), alternative livestock such as farmed deer, elk and bison, as well as equine cases.

Access to the telepathology service is limited to licensed veterinarians or veterinary clinics, and a licensed veterinarian must be present and performing the necropsy during the call.

In addition to the new telepathology offering, the DSU’s serology and molecular diagnostics (PCR) laboratories continue to validate and expand testing for diseases of importance to Alberta livestock industries. Current testing includes a range of bacterial, viral and parasitic diagnostics across bovine, small ruminant, porcine, poultry, equine and companion animal species, with further test development underway.

The DSU notes that veterinarians and producer organization representatives are the preferred points of contact for questions related to diagnostic services or emerging disease concerns. This approach helps ensure appropriate case triage, supports the veterinarian–producer relationship, and helps manage laboratory capacity.