Katherine Ockert

domesticated animals Importance: High Dear MSU Extension Staff, As many of you are aware Mayor Karen Weaver of Flint issued a state of emergency regarding the levels of lead in the city’s water supply. Because this is such a high visibility issue, I’m sharing this information with everyone as I’m sure it has resulted in conversations throughout the state. Our health and nutrition staff members are working diligently with the community to address human health concerns. In addition, we have received many questions regarding the effects on animals—specifically companion animals such as dogs, cats, birds and other domesticated pets who also have been drinking the water. After speaking with Dr. John Buchweitz, toxicologist at the MSU Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health (DCPAH), the official statement from MSU Extension staff is “if you are concerned about your animal’s health, please take your animal to your veterinarian. Based on clinical signs and physical examination, the veterinarian can recommend appropriate diagnostic testing or other types of examination to determine if your animal is at risk. Veterinarians can contact DCPAH for more information on available testing and sample requirements.” Please do not provide information that could be construed as diagnosis, course of treatment or anything of the sort. This is not within the scope of information that MSU Extension can provide—this information must come from a licensed veterinarian. An MSU Extension article has been posted on the website regarding this issue and can be found at to do if you suspect lead poisoning in concern you are hearing about in your community. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions. Thank you, Katie Oekert 446 W, Circl a, fon 240 fustin & Morrill Hall of Agriculture xxxEND_PAGE:executiveofficeemails20_b0427_1559_1561_2 ockertha@anrmsuedu MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. xxxEND_PAGE:executiveofficeemails20_b0427_1559_1561_3