AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRIES COMMISSIONER: Dept. of Ag Diagnostic Lab Assists Montgomery Zoo

FROM THE AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRIES COMMISSIONER

August 18, 2008

MONTGOMERY – Commissioner Ron Sparks says that the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries’ Diagnostic Lab in Auburn was able to assist the Montgomery Zoo with diagnostic services this past weekend for an elephant that died at the zoo late last week.  Lab staff examined the 23 year-old animal and determined that it died from intussusception, a rare intestinal disorder.    

“The unfortunate loss of such a grand animal is a reminder of how important diagnostic ability is to veterinary health,” said Sparks.  “Knowledge is essential whether you are dealing with animal, plant or human health.  Without it, we might not be able to determine the presence or cause of such illnesses as BSE or avian influenza.”

The state-of-the-art lab facility, which was dedicated in 2006, has the capability to handle such large animals and is considered an excellent standard for diagnostic labs.