The National Center for Foreign Animal and Zoonotic Disease Defense ( FAZD Center) was formed under the United States Department of Homeland Security as an Academic Center of Excellence in September 2004. Texas A&M University has been designated as the lead institution for this multi-university and interdisciplinary program. Other universities involved are University of California at Davis, University of Texas Medical Branch and University of Southern California. All four institutions are working together to develop and deliver national programs for prevention, detection, response, recovery and risk communication/education of foreign and zoonotic animal diseases.

Part of the FAZD Center outreach strategy involves training and education of deferral, state and local officials and veterinarians in aspects of prevention, detection, response and recovery from an accidental or intentional introduction of FAZD in the U.S.

Emergency Animal Management During Disasters

Model Animal Issues Response Plan

Appendix 4 Annex N - State Animal Issues Plan

Animal Issue Committee Guidance Document

Hurricane and Mass Care Evacuation

Developing and Animal Issues Plan: Training DVD

The Foreign and Emerging Animal Diseases Handbook is a reference for training federal, state and local educators and officials, as well as private veterinarians, in emergency preparedness and response. To learn more about the curriculum or to view the curriculum visit

With the possible threat of a foreign animal disease being introduced
or reintroduced into the United States and the emerging occurrences of
various endemic animal diseases, it is important that we know the
different clinical symptoms of these diseases for the detection, the
means of transmission, for prevention and control and the proper
individuals to contact in case an outbreak does occur. Our prompt
recognition will help in a hopeful speedy control or eradication of the
disease. In this section you will find information about the different
diseases such as transmission means, symptoms, contact information,
etc. If there are any additional concerns please feel free to contact
us.