UF Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory

Everyone knows what a tripod is, but not everyone remembers to bring one to an animal crime scene. A tripod is one of the most valuable photography tools because it stabilizes the camera, helps to reduce motion blur, and allows for the taking of high-quality photographs, especially in low-light conditions. Sometimes the difference between a usable and unusable photograph is a stable camera platform.

This Memorial Day, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and to their families.

Do you want to receive information about services the VFSL provides? Do you want to receive infomation about upcoming VFSL trainings? Do you want to hear about general laboratory updates? If yes, all you have to do is sign up for our quarterly newsletter. It is that simple!

https://animalforensics.vetmed.ufl.edu/about-us/contact-us/

Forensic Fact Wednesday. Taking crime scene photographs in a dark room can be challenging, but one useful technique is called “painting with light.” During a long exposure photograph, a flashlight or other light source is moved around the scene to selectively illuminate evidence and details. This technique can help document bloodstains, tool marks, or other evidence in low-light environments.

Recently, the Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory (VFSL) hosted two members of the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency from South Korea for a week-long training experience focused on veterinary forensic pathology. The visit was part of a multi-year international collaboration aimed at advancing veterinary forensic science and strengthening global partnerships.

During their time at the VFSL, participants observed forensic autopsies, discussed investigative approaches, and learned about laboratory workflows. The ability to collaborate with both internal and international partners is essential in addressing animal cruelty and animal crimes worldwide. Animal cruelty investigations often involve issues that cross jurisdictions and borders, making scientific collaboration and information sharing increasingly important. Through partnerships like these, the VFSL continues to support the advancement of veterinary forensic science on a global scale.

The Animal Welfare Junction Podcast joined us at Animal ForensiCon 2026! If you were unable to attend the conference, these podcast interviews are a great way to learn more about many of our presenters and the important work they are doing in the fields of animal welfare, animal advocacy, forensic investigations, and animal protection.

https://animal-welfare-junction.captivate.fm/

That’s a wrap for Animal ForensiCon 2026, and what a tremendous success it was! The conference brought together professionals from across the country and around the world for outstanding lectures, hands-on workshops, and meaningful discussions focused on advancing the field of animal forensics and animal cruelty investigations. Thank you to our sponsors Humane World for Animals and the National Animal Care and Control Association!

Happening now at Animal ForensiCon 2026!

We would like to welcome Lieutenant Chris Urban from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, who is presenting on drones and their applications in investigations and field operations. This session explores both the capabilities and limitations of drone technology and how these tools can assist with scene documentation, searches, and investigations.

Happening now at Animal ForensiCon 2026!

Next up is Shalimar Oliver from Humane World for Animals, presenting on puppy mills and best practices for responding to these complex scenes. This session highlights the challenges investigators and responders face during large-scale rescue operations and the importance of coordinated animal care and evidence documentation.

Happening now at Animal ForensiCon 2026!

Following our morning snack break, Dr. Rachel Sheffler from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine will be presenting on forensic toxicology. This session will explore how toxicologic testing can uncover hidden exposures and provide critical evidence in animal crime investigations.