Volume 7, Number 1

Fall, 1999

LSU Accepting Donations of Horses for Special Studies The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is currently accepting horses for donation for use in teaching and research programs. Horses are donated unrestricted to LSU, which means that the School cannot specify with certainty how they will be utilized. Horses may be included in teaching or research programs or may be sold at public auction. The proceeds would then be directed to equine veterinary medical teaching and research. The owner of the horse must establish each animal's value, which can be applied toward a tax deduction. If the horse is valued at more than $5,000, the owner must supply an appraisal from a qualified independent appraiser. The LSU Foundation will provide each owner with written documentation of donation for tax purposes. Most adult horses and foals free of significant diseases will be accepted for donation; however, the School must be able to identify an opening in one of its programs. The School is currently soliciting horses with the following diseases for use in specific research studies: summer pasture-associated obstructive pulmonary disease (heaves, COPD); laminitis (founder); and lethal white disease in Paint foals. Persons interested in donating a horse to LSU or in learning more about the donation program should call the School of Veterinary Medicine Large Animal Clinic at (225) 346-3131.