Veterinarians are the first line of defense against infectious and contagious animal diseases, noted Brian J. McCluskey, DVM, MS, of the USDA:Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Centers for Epidemiology and Animal Health in Fort Collins, Colo. “The rapid diagnosis and ultimate control of foreign animal and emerging diseases is dependent on the diagnostic abilities, experiences, and diligence of veterinary practitioners,” said McCluskey.

“The number one take-home message is that veterinary practitioners are the cornerstone of foreign animal disease surveillance in the United States,” he emphasized. “Reporting the presence of suspected lesions or clinical findings is an important first step in identifying foreign animal disease