The Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory (VFSL) is located at the University of Florida in Gainesville. It plays an important role in animal forensic science. The lab helps investigate animal deaths, abuse, and wildlife crimes. Many professionals, including veterinarians and law enforcement, rely on the VFSL for expert analysis. The lab offers various forensic services to uncover the truth behind suspicious animal deaths. These services are critical for both legal and animal welfare purposes.
Main Services Provided by VFSL
Veterinary forensic pathology: Focus on animal deaths caused by unnatural or suspicious circumstances
Forensic autopsies: Conducted by board-certified veterinary pathologists with Fellow status in Veterinary Forensic Pathology
Forensic DNA analysis: Identifies DNA from animal-related crime scenes
Imaging studies and photogrammetry: Uses detailed images for crime scene evaluation and injury documentation
Toxicology testing: Identifies poisons and chemicals affecting animal health
Crime scene response: Supports evidence collection from scenes involving animals
Other specialized services: Arranged as needed
Clientele Served by VFSL
Law enforcement agencies
Animal services and control departments
State attorney offices
Humane societies and game wardens
Veterinarians
Attorneys
General public
Detailed Forensic Services Offered
Service
Description
Forensic autopsy
Investigates suspicious animal deaths, determines cause, time of death, and collects trace evidence.
Forensic histopathology
Study tissues under a microscope to find disease, trauma, or the cause of death.
Forensic toxicology
Detects poisons and toxins in the body. Can be done in-house or through external specialists.
Postmortem imaging
Uses radiographs or other scans to detect internal injuries or abnormalities.
Forensic DNA analysis
Matches DNA from crime scenes with that of animals or humans involved.
Forensic entomology
Study tissues under a microscope to find disease, trauma, or cause of death.
Clandestine grave detection
Identifies and excavates hidden burial sites of animals.
Animal crime scene response
Assists in collecting evidence at scenes involving animals.
Food safety investigations
Examines cases involving contamination of food products due to animal-related issues.
Types of Cases Handled by VFSL
Type of Case
Example or Detail
Neglect
Starvation, failure to provide basic care.
Blunt force trauma
Injuries caused by being struck or hit.
Gunshot wounds
Injuries caused by firearms.
Stab wounds
Injuries caused by sharp instruments.
Poisoning
Exposure to toxic substances such as antifreeze.
Fire-related deaths
Physical abuse is related to inappropriate sexual contact with animals.
Sexual abuse
Physical abuse related to inappropriate sexual contact with animals.
Illegal wildlife killings
Poaching and hunting of protected species.
Surgical complications
Deaths resulting from veterinary surgery issues.
Examples of Laboratory Findings
Bone marrow fat reduction: Indicates starvation in neglected animals
Calcium oxalate crystals in urine: Found in cats poisoned by antifreeze (ethylene glycol)
Serous atrophy in bones: Suggests long-term malnutrition
Special Programs at VFSL
Program Name
Purpose
A Dog Has No Name
Provides forensic support for stray dogs submitted for autopsy.
A Cat Has No Name
Offers the same support for stray cats submitted under suspicious circumstances.
Collaborations and Expertise
University of Florida specialists: Work with internal forensic experts
National and international professionals: Collaborate for unique and complex cases
Highly qualified staff: Includes veterinary pathologists with special forensic training and certifications
Key Contributions to Animal Justice
Supports law enforcement in prosecuting animal cruelty cases
Helps protect wildlife through evidence-based poaching investigations
Assists veterinarians and owners in understanding unexplained deaths
Promotes animal welfare by uncovering abuse and neglect
Contact Details
Information
Details
Location
Gainesville, Florida
Operating Hours
Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Closed on university holidays)
Animal Submissions
After-hours drop-off available case-by-case (call in advance)
Initial Contact
Recommended before submitting any animal for forensic services
Email Availability
Inquiries accepted 24/7 via email or online contact form
What You Need to Know
Question
Answer
What is an animal forensic autopsy?
A forensic autopsy (necropsy) is used to determine the cause and manner of an animal’s death. It is typically requested when an animal dies under suspicious or unnatural conditions. Information gathered helps in investigations.
What is forensic DNA analysis?
Forensic DNA analysis involves examining DNA from biological samples like blood, hair, or saliva. It helps in identifying animal victims or suspects in cruelty or predation cases.
What are the other forensic services offered?
VFSL offers services like forensic histopathology, toxicology, diagnostic imaging, entomology, grave detection, and food safety contamination assessments.
What types of cases are examined?
Common cases include neglect, poisoning, gunshot wounds, stab wounds, fire deaths, trauma, surgical complications, and poaching.
What is the cost of a forensic autopsy?
Costs vary based on the animal type and tests required. VFSL provides estimates on request. Programs are available for stray dogs and cats.
What are the hours of the VFSL?
Open Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on university holidays. Animal drop-off after hours is allowed case-by-case.
The Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory is a vital resource for bringing justice to animals. Through scientific methods, expert staff, and a commitment to truth, the VFSL provides answers in complex animal-related cases. Whether through a forensic autopsy or DNA analysis, the lab continues to play a key role in protecting animal lives and supporting legal systems.
