Many of the animals examined by Adam Stern, D.V.M., a professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in the department of comparative diagnostic and population medicine, have experienced an untimely death or unexpected tragedy.
They are often at the center of a criminal investigation and Stern’s forensic examinations aim to find answers about what happened.
Since 2018, the Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory team has worked hundreds of animal abuse and neglect cases, seeking justice for all types of creatures. From farm animals and wildlife to cats, dogs, rabbits, and parrots, these animals’ untold stories often help law enforcement and other government agencies unravel larger, complex crimes.
Now, thanks to more than $7 million from anonymous donors in 2023, the program is poised for its first major expansion, providing much-needed resources for animal forensics partners across the state of Florida, the nation, and the world.