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Disease is difficult to detect and measure in free-ranging wild animals. The FWP Wildlife Research Laboratory works closely with field staff to collect blood and tissue samples to look for evidence of disease in Montana's wolf population. Our goal is to document if disease is present and if so, how commonly it occurs. In addition, we evaluate the potential risks posed by the diseases detected and consider the possibleimpacts on livestock, other domestic animals and humans. Wild animals are usually exposed to several potential disease-causing agents atonce; multiple infectious and non-infectious disease agents are already present in the environment as well as in other animal species. FWP surveillance programs are therefore designed to detect multiple pathogens. We use four basic methods to look for disease: 1. Examine dead wolves (e.g. euthanasia and/or lethal control)2. Search for disease agents in sick wolves (e.g. mites to confirm a diagnosis of Sarcoptic mange)3. Search for evidence of disease exposure in blood collected from captured wolves (e.g. antibodies)4. Search for evidence of similar disease exposure in species other than wolves (e.g. Echinococcus in foxes)Blood samples are commonly used to look for physiological indicators such as antibodies. This testing procedure is called serology. The presence of antibodies indicates prior exposure to viruses, protozoa and bacteria and the animal's immune response to the exposure. It does not document the actual causative agent of the disease or signify the animal actually has the disease. Clinical evidence and additional in-depth procedures are required to actually demonstrate the disease itself.

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Found online, pdf on computerNatureBib ID: 652474

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