Skip to main content

News

News

News affecting the practice of veterinary medicine and the care of animals.

August 12, 2026

Cyanobacteria Harmful Algal Bloom Advisories

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) can cause serious illness or death in pets and livestock that ingest water or mats containing high concentrations of cyanotoxins. When in doubt, stay out!

August 10, 2026

Viewpoint: August 2026

Topics in this issue of the member newsletter include a discussion about IP 28's failure to make the fall ballot, an overview of the recent AVMA House of Delegates meeting, coverage of two OVMA members doing good work in the community, and more.

July 31, 2026

Classical Scrapie Confirmed in Oregon Sheep Through Routine Surveillance

ODA and USDA APHIS have confirmed a case of classical scrapie in a sheep slaughtered in a facility in Oregon. The animal was tested as part of USDA’s ongoing national scrapie surveillance program, which is designed to identify classical scrapie in sheep and goats at slaughter facilities.  

July 25, 2026

IP 28: OVMA is Opposed

The OVMA opposes Initiative Petition 28, formally titled People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions (PEACE) Act. Update: The petition did not gather enough validated signatures and will not be on the November ballot.

July 23, 2026

Wildfire Smoke & Animals

Health advisories issued for air quality also apply to animals. Smoke, ash and dust from wildfires affects pets, birds, horses, livestock and wildlife.

April 10, 2026

IP 28 Overview

The OVMA opposes IP 28. If enacted, IP 28 would radically alter Oregon’s animal cruelty landscape by striking down long-standing exemptions from prosecution for common agricultural husbandry practices, fishing, hunting, scientific research, wildlife management, and pest control.

March 18, 2026

Dr. Gail Colbern is the OVMA's New President

Dr. Gail Colbern of Green Springs Veterinary Service in Ashland is the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association’s (OVMA) new president. She will serve in this role through February 2027.

March 9, 2026

Recent Cattle Reproductive Losses in NE Oregon: Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD)

The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has recently received reports from veterinarians and cattle producers in Northeast Oregon about a concerning increase in late‑term abortions and the birth of dummy calves. Diagnostic testing has indicated Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is present in fetal tissue in at least two of the reported cases.

March 2, 2026

Oregon Animal Hall of Fame™

Each year, the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association and the Animal Health Foundation of Oregon honor animals who, through unselfish and courageous accomplishments, exemplify the affection, loyalty, security, public service, and value of the human-animal bond. This year's inductees were Skipper in the Hero category, and Benny in the Professional category.