Avian and Pet Rabbit Research Fund

A little known fact is that the University of Miami has garnered international recognition for its expertise in clinical diagnostic testing for avian, exotic, and wildlife species.  Nearly two hundred publications and more than 200 conference presentations are a testimony to our efforts to further the this specialized field of veterinary medicine.

Our Avian & Wildlife Laboratory and Acute Phase Protein Laboratory receive more than 30,000 samples annually from veterinary clinics, rehabilitation facilities, zoos, and aquaria.  On any one day, we may see samples from elephants, endangered African penguins, crocodiles, and sharks as well as plenty of pet rabbits and birds.  

Two areas which have been a focus of our collaborative research for many years are avian aspergillosis and E. cuniculi infection in rabbits.  Aspergillosis is a fungal infection which can afflict any avian species.  Unfortunately, many birds can be infected but not show any clinical signs until infection is quite advanced.  In recent years, we have developed three novel tests which are in use in our clinical lab today.  E. cuniculi is a parasite that can infect nearly any mammal but especially can cause quite severe neurological and renal disease in rabbits. We have been able to develop a panel of tests which is widely used at this time.

We are seeking to make significant improvements in our understanding of these diseases and what we can do to implement better diagnostic options.  

You can learn more about us at www.cpl.med.miami.edu.