Our Presenter:

Katie Clow, DVM, is a PhD Candidate at the University of Guelph examining the ecology of Lyme disease in Ontario, and a graduate from the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph.

The Presentation:

Dr. Clow will explore the key ecological factors associated with the blacklegged tick and Lyme disease in Ontario. Emphasis will be placed on the role of habitat, climate and wildlife for the establishment and spread of this emerging disease. Some of the common myths and misconceptions of Lyme disease will be discussed. Participants will be provided with practical knowledge on how to protect themselves from blacklegged ticks, while still enjoying the great outdoors.

Biography:

Dr. Katie Clow graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph in 2011. During veterinary school, she completed internships at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Following graduation, she practiced small animal medicine in Renfrew, ON. In the fall of 2013, Katie began her PhD thesis examining the ecology of Lyme disease in Ontario in order to better understand and predict the distribution and spread of the disease. She has a keen interest in veterinary public health, and hopes to continue her career in academia, with a strong focus on vector-borne disease research, teaching and international development.