Calgary—The University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is expanding its Diagnostic Services Unit to strengthen animal health and food safety across Alberta. The program, supported by provincial funding until March 2028, offers more affordable and faster diagnostic testing for a wide range of livestock.

Producers and veterinarians will benefit from in-province testing for cattle, swine, sheep, goats, bison, elk, deer and poultry. The expanded services cover post-mortem examinations, histopathology, bacteriology, serology, molecular diagnostics such as PCR, and parasitology. Some results are available within days, while more complex cases require additional time.

By keeping testing in Alberta, the initiative is expected to improve disease surveillance, strengthen herd and flock health, and protect food supply chains. The program also helps track emerging and exotic diseases, as well as antimicrobial resistance, reducing reliance on out-of-province labs.

All diagnostic cases must be submitted by veterinarians, with billing processed through clinics. Producers receive results and guidance through their veterinary providers. Reports are also used in training veterinary students, giving them hands-on experience with diagnostic cases.

The University of Calgary says the service enhances public health protection while supporting animal welfare and the long-term stability of Alberta’s livestock industry.