Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine

😸 CVM PET OF THE WEEK: Each week, we're introducing the pets behind the people of Auburn Vet Med.

Meet Cheeto Puff, a three-year-old tabby cat named for his snacky tendencies.

"He is a fat cat at heart," said Cheeto's owner, Ashantae Nelson (DVM Class of 2028). "We've worked very hard to keep him on the slimmer side, much to his dismay."

Where there's food, you'll find Cheeto trying to steel it. His favorite? Bread of any kind. Sandwich bread, hotdog buns, tortillas — Cheeto doesn't discriminate. To keep him active, Ashantae uses a treat launcher that sends him sprinting across the room as soon as he hears it rattle.

When he's not on the hunt for snacks, Cheeto can usually be found napping belly-up with his favorite catnip ball nearby. 🧡🐾🧡

Get eye-to-eye with nature’s winged beauties at this fall’s Football, Fans and Feathers! 🦅🦉

Hosted by the Auburn University Raptor Center, these unique pregame experiences give visitors the chance to get up close with hawks, falcons, owls, vultures and, of course, eagles. Learn about each species from our ever knowledgeable team, then watch raptors soar overhead in breathtaking free-flight demonstrations in the outdoor amphitheater.

No two shows are ever the same, making every visit a one-of-a-kind experience.

Shows are held on Fridays before Auburn home football games, with the first program taking flight on Sept. 11. 🏈

🎟️ Grab your tickets before they fly away!

🔗 www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor/raptor-center-events/

✨ CVM SPOTLIGHT: Today we're celebrating Hattie Alvis, an administrative assistant in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology and recipient of the Deborah Hatch Czerkawski Award.

Known for her patience, kindness and deep knowledge of Auburn's systems, Hattie is a trusted resource for colleagues across the college. Whether she's mentoring new administrative professionals or solving problems, Hattie consistently goes above and beyond to support those around her.

Her coworkers describe her as the "behind-the-scenes captain" and the "glue that holds the department together," praising her extraordinary leadership, mentorship and willingness to help wherever needed.

“In APP, it is commonly known that if you have a problem, Mrs. Hattie can likely get it fixed.”

Please join us in celebrating Hattie! 👏

Ready to level up your orthopedic skills? 💉

Join us on Oct. 31 for the Canine and Feline Arthrocentesis and Joint Injection Laboratory offered as part of the 2026 Annual Conference.

This hands-on course is designed to help practitioners build confidence in joint taps and injections through guided practice. Participants will learn from experienced instructors while refining their skills in patient positioning, anatomic landmarks, needle placement, sample collection and proper injection techniques.

➡️ Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/4gaaqcA.

We're pleased to introduce Aaron Brazelton as our new director of development.

Aaron is no stranger to Auburn University, having previously led an outstanding team in the College of Liberal Arts. In his new role, Aaron will lead our fundraising efforts, partnering with alumni, donors, employees and college leadership to strengthen support for patient and client care, research, facilities, faculty excellence, scholarships and other initiatives that align with our mission and vision.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4wYbqrm

CVM PET OF THE WEEK 🐶: It's time to meet another Auburn Vet Med pet superstar!

Say hello to Riggs, a dog with a secret identity. 🤫 Can you guess his breed?

Believe it or not, Riggs was the only black puppy in a litter of Goldendoodles. He joined the family of Research Manager Rachel Forbes three years ago after Rachel's daughter surprised her with him after the loss of their dog of 14 years.

Riggs uses his smarts to his benefit, putting on a show at any store where he can get a free dog treat. He's always ready for a trip to Lowes to bird watch, and he thrives on the agility course.

"He keeps me on my toes on the agility field and will 'talk back' if I give him cues too late and he gets confused," Rachel said. "The other participants think he's hilarious because we are literally having a conversation with each other on the course."

🏅 Team USA pentathlete
🏎️ Autocross national champion
🏈 College football official
🔬 Veterinary clinical pathologist

For most people, any of these accomplishments would stand out. For Assistant Clinical Professor Dr. Jordan Towns, they're just a few of the pursuits that have shaped a life dedicated to mastering new challenges.

“Anything worth doing is worth overdoing, right?” - Dr. Towns

Read about how her passions beyond veterinary medicine help shape the way she teaches, learns and leads:

🔗 https://bit.ly/4xAQ8QD

Is seeing pictures of DVM students arriving back on campus giving you FOMO? 😔 We have the perfect solution. ✨

Join us for Auburn Vet Med's 2026 Annual Conference this October 29-31!

Registration is open for the three-day event, giving veterinarians and veterinary technicians a chance to learn about the latest and greatest in veterinary medicine while connecting with practitioners from across the Southeast.

Early-bird pricing is available now through mid-September, so secure your spot soon!

Learn more ➡️ https://bit.ly/4y6E3Dx

✨ CVM SPOTLIGHT: Today we're highlighting the CVM's own ray of sunshine, Lawanda Moss. ☀️

Lawanda recently received the 2026 Dean's Award, which recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in providing services for the CVM. Part of custodial services, Lawanda's nominators said she keeps the CVM smelling incredible and is "always bursting with joy."

"Ms. Wanda is quick to share a kind word, and talking to her always makes my day better. She exemplifies the Auburn creed and is a great asset to the university."

Please join us in thanking Lawanda for all she does! 👏