News

A popular household product may pose a hidden and potentially fatal risk to dogs. A new study co-authored by three ABVT diplomates traces severe neurologic poisonings to acrylamide contamination in hydrogel cooling masks.

A new study co-authored by ABVT diplomate Dr. Laura Stern reviewed 403 cases and found that dogs accidentally ingesting a single dose of the Cushing's medication trilostane usually show only mild, self-limiting signs. Serious illness was rare, even at high doses.

A new case series co-authored by ABVT diplomate Dr. Sara Lister documents the first reported cases of accidental Apoquel® overdose in cats, with two of three cats dying from severe kidney injury. The findings alert veterinarians and owners to an emerging and potentially fatal hazard.

A new case report co-authored by ABVT diplomates Dr. Leah Swanson and Dr. Renee Schmid describes a dog that developed cardiovascular and ocular abnormalities after ingesting the topical eczema cream Opzelura®. The report offers veterinarians a timely reference as human topical medications become increasingly common in households.

A 2022 survey published in Veterinary Sciences assessed the depth, breadth, and perception of toxicology education across AAVMC member veterinary schools, gathering data on faculty credentials, course topics, and how prepared new graduates are for clinical toxicology tasks. The findings can help veterinary schools evaluate and strengthen their curricula to better prepare graduates for the toxicology challenges they'll face in practice. Access the full article here.

American Board of Veterinary Toxicology celebrates history of safeguarding animals, people, and the environment

The American Board of Veterinary Toxicology congratulates its eight newest Diplomates, who passed the 2026 board certification exam and bring expertise spanning emergency medicine, poison control, academia, industry, and wildlife health.

The American Board of Veterinary Toxicology has named Dr. Stephen B. Hooser of Purdue University its 2026 Service Award recipient, honoring a career of more than four decades. A Purdue faculty member since 1994 and an ABVT Diplomate since 1989, he served as board president from 2010 to 2012. Widely published and known for pet-safety videos viewed by millions, Hooser is celebrated by colleagues for his generosity and dedication to mentoring early-career toxicologists.

The American Board of Veterinary Toxicology has announced its 2026–2028 Executive Committee. Dr. Jay Albretsen, a Senior Principal Research Scientist at Charles River Laboratories, takes over as President, with Dr. Renee Schmid of Pet Poison Helpline as President-Elect. Dr. Megan Romano of the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory serves as Secretary, and Dr. Scott Radke of the Iowa State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory continues as Treasurer. Together, the committee brings expertise spanning industry, poison control, diagnostic laboratories, and academia.