In an effort to identify and prevent disease problems, PADLS seeks to accomplish the following objectives:
- Provide an early warning for impending epizootics and rapid accurate identification of infectious disease.
- Identify infectious and contagious diseases as quickly as possible by providing accurate diagnostic tests.
- Identify chemicals and contaminants that threaten animal and human health, and agriculture.
- Assist in the diagnosis of nutritional and metabolic problems.
- Perform testing necessary to support federal and state regulatory programs.
- Perform testing necessary for the export of animals and animal byproducts.
The three laboratories in PADLS include:
- New Bolton Center Laboratory, affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine in Kennett Square
- The Pennsylvania Veterinary Laboratory, a division of the Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services in Harrisburg
- The Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, affiliated with Pennsylvania State University in University Park
The partnership of the two university laboratories in the PADLS mission provides a unique opportunity to integrate complementary research and teaching components. The combined resources and technical expertise of leading scientists at PADLS laboratories provide state-of-the-art diagnostic technology supporting veterinarians’ efforts to advance animal and public health initiatives and support producers in assuring a safe, secure, and abundant food supply.
Visit the PADLS website.