STATEMENT ON H.R.2929
THE "CAPTIVE ELEPHANT ACCIDENT PREVENTION ACT"
SUBMITTED TO
THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON CRIME
COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY
UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
JUNE 13, 2000
Mr. Chairman and members of the Subcommittee, thank you for this opportunity to speak on this issue. My name is Dr. Dennis Schmitt, I am a veterinarian. and I have interacted with over 200 elephants in approximately 40 zoo's, and 5 circuses. I have participated in the care and guided investigations into the biology of elephants for over fifteen years. I am a professor of animal science with a DVM, PhD and I am board certified in veterinary reproduction by the American College of Theriogenology. I am a member of the board of directors for the International Elephant Foundation, and serve as the reproductive advisor for elephants on the Species Survival Plan committee of the American Zoological Association.
In my role as a reproductive specialist, I recently participated in the conception and births of the first Asian and African elephants resulting from artificial insemination in the world and have assisted in 14 elephant births.
The approximately 750 Asian and African elephants in North America are nearing a critical milestone. If the birth rate continues at present levels, the current population will fall to less than 20 individuals of each species in the next 40-50 years. An analysis of the birth records in the current Asian elephant studbook of North America reveals that 56 calves were born from July 1987 to July 1997. During that ten year period in circuses 90 % of the calves were live-born, while in zoos just under 60% were live-born. This difference in the survival rate in newborns may be due to several reasons, but one important difference is the superior physical fitness of circus elephants.
This legislation would tremendously impact the ability to maintain and exhibit elephants by circuses in North America. Circuses are actively involved in the scientific investigation of the physiology, reproduction, and behavior of elephants. The personal efforts and professional investment of those who work with elephants have resulted in tremendous strides for elephant welfare in the last 10 to 15 years.
The opportunities that allow the public to see, touch and be amazed by elephants in circuses cannot be duplicated by documentaries on television. The issue of public safety during direct contact with elephants is a crucial consideration. The record of public safety with elephants in circuses is a tribute to the communication between individual animals and their trainers. The rare exceptions should not be used to characterize the whole human-elephant interaction and drive the passage of this legislation.
Circuses make important and unique contributions to elephant husbandry. Three circuses, Ringling Bros. Circus, Carson and Barnes Circus, and George Carden's International Circus have made significant contributions to research in Asian elephants. Their participation in studies of reproductive physiology and their direct involvement in natural and artificial insemination studies contributed to the recent successes resulting in the births of the first two artificially conceived elephants. As an example of the level of collaboration among zoos and circuses, Ringling Bros. participated in the recent artificial insemination procedure that resulted in the successful pregnancy of the Asian elephant Shanti here at the National Zoo, the fifth such pregnancy in the world.
Ringling Bros. Elephant Conservation Center is providing a model for elephant reproduction for the world. Ten calves have been born at Ringling Bros. Circus. I believe one factor for this success is the result of having physically and socially fit elephants. To prevent circuses from exhibiting elephants, one of the flagship animals of a circus, would critically change not only the captive population of elephants in North America, but also the character of circuses as a whole. There is not evidence of circus life per se being detrimental for an elephant's well being and recent studies performed at Carson and Barnes Circus and published by Dr. Ted Friend would indicate that the care of circus elephants is equivalent to care of animals in zoos, kennels, and farms. Captive elephants serve as charismatic ambassadors, we must think rationally and continue to improve captive elephant welfare. I have traveled to Africa twice and have visited recently with two colleagues who just returned from Sumatra. There is no wild left for elephants. There are isolated populations of elephants in large preserves. This legislation would dramatically affect the future of elephants in North America. I believe this is a rational conclusion, genuinely supported by the relevant information. As a consultant to several zoos and circuses, I find their level of care and concern for elephant welfare to be admirable. As an example, one of the circuses I work with is Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey circus, they provide excellent veterinary and animal care for their elephants. Elephant health and welfare is monitored by animal caretakers, veterinary technicians, and veterinarians, both on the road and at the Elephant Conservation Center. I know that the animal care staff at Ringling Bros. wishes they could be here today to talk to you about what they do. It is on their behalf that I would like to show you the following video on the care and transportation of elephants at Ringling Bros. Thank you for your time and attention.
CURRICULUM VITAE
Dennis L. Schmitt
PRESENT POSITION AND ADDRESS
Office: Associate Professor
217 Karl's Hall
Department of Agriculture
901 South National
Southwest Missouri State University
Springfield, Mo. 65804
Phone: 417-836-5091
EDUCATION
Year Degree Conferring Institution Field
1969 B.S. University of Missouri Agricultural Education
Columbia, Missouri
1974 M.S. University of Missouri Dairy Husbandry
Columbia, Missouri Reproductive Physiology
1978 D.V.M. University of Missouri Veterinary Medicine
Columbia, Missouri
1986 Ph.D. University of Missouri Dairy Science
Columbia, Missouri Reproductive Physiology
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
1996-present--Associate Professor, SMSU Agriculture Department, Springfield, Mo.
1994-1996-- Clinical Veterinarian, Dickerson Park Zoo, Springfield, Mo.
1985-present-- Research Coordinator, Dickerson Park Zoo, Springfield, Mo.
1979-present-- Owner/Veterinarian, Reproductive Resources, Springfield, Mo.
1994-1996-- Per Course Instructor, SMSU Agriculture Department, Springfield, Mo.
1994-1996-- Instructor, Show-Me Genetics Embryo Transfer School, Tipton, Mo.
1993-94-- Clinical Assistant Professor Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, University of Mo.
1992-- Per Course Instructor, Ozarks Technical College, Springfield, Mo.
1988-1992-- Per-Course Instructor, SMSU Agriculture Department, Springfield, Mo.
1986-1987-- Clinical Veterinarian, Dickerson Park Zoo, Springfield, Mo.
1978-79-- Associate Veterinarian, Union Stockyards Veterinary Services, Springfield, Mo.
1972-73-- Instructor, Vocational Agriculture, Willard High School, Willard, Mo.
1969-71-- Instructor, Vocational Agriculture, Forsyth High School, Forsyth, Mo.
BOARD CERTIFICATION
Field Conferring College Date
Theriogenology College of Theriogenology 1986
The College of Theriogenology is an organization of veterinarians with a specialty in reproduction. To become board certified the veterinarian must demonstrate expertise in the field. This is demonstrated both by experience and a written and oral examination in a wide range of species. In veterinary colleges this is considered equal to a post-graduate degree in the field.
AWARDS AND HONORS
College of Natural and Applied Science Award for Research (1998)
Nominee for Missouri State Veterinarian of the year (1998) by Southwest Veterinary Medical Association.
President's Award for Outstanding Service to Elephant Managers Association (1997)
Who's Who in American Science (1987)
Who's Who in Veterinary Medicine (1986)
Who's Who in the Midwest (1984-85)
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND SERVICE
American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums--Member 1987 to present
scientific advisory member of Asian Elephant SSP Committee-- 1987 to present
scientific advisory member of African Elephant SSP Committee-- 1992 to present
scientific advisory member of Scimitar-horned Oryx SSP Committee-- 1987 to 1993
American Association of Zoo Veterinarians--Member 1985 to present
American College of Theriogenology--Member 1986 to present
American Embryo Transfer Association--Member 1980 to present
American Veterinary Medical Association--Member 1978 to present
International Embryo Transfer Society--Member 1978 to present
International Elephant Foundation - Board Member 1998 to present
Scientific Advisory Committee--Chairman 1999 - present
Missouri Veterinary Medical Association--Member 1978 to present
Missouri Veterinary Alumni Association--Member 1993 to present
Vice-president 1993-1996, President 1996-1998
Southwest Missouri Veterinary Medical Association--Member 1978 to present
Society for Theriogenology--Member 1978 to present
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Undergraduate
Course Title Institution Credit % of Formal Contact Hr
Hr Course Lecture Lab Dates
Veterinary Physiology SMSU 3 100% 54 1989-1990
(AGR301) 1996-present
Artificial Insemination SMSU 3 100% 36 36 1997-present
& Reproduction (AGR 302)
Veterinary Science SMSU 3 100% 54 1985-1992
(AGR 306) 3 100% 54 1995-present
3 100% 54 1995-1996
Dairy Products SMSU 3 100% 36 36 1996-present
Dairy Production SMSU 3 100% 36 36 1996-present
Animal Science SMSU 1 100% 18 1996-present
Senior Seminar
Human Anatomy & OTC 5(2X) 100% 54 48 1992
Physiology (BIO110)
Graduate
Reproductive SMSU 1 33% 18 1992
Physiology SMSU 3 50% 54 1998-present
Professional
Credit % of Formal Contact Hr
Course Title Institution Hr Course Lecture Lab Dates
Theriogenology University of 10 50% 30 300 93-94
(259V) Missouri
Theriogenology University of 3 33% 16 93-94
(280V) Missouri
Theriogenology University of 4(12x) 50% 960 93-94
(267V) Missouri
These classes (professional) were for veterinary students in their last two years of veterinary education. Theriogenology 259V was a combined lecture and clinical course that was supplanted by Theriogenology 280V and Theriogenology 267V. All students (64) entering their third year of veterinary education were enrolled in 280V for all of the lectures that were in 259V. Theriogenology 267V was then a clinical block that was offered in eight week blocks during their clinical rotation.
Graduate Students
Name Degree Institution Advisor/Committee Dates
Melissa Carden M.S. SMSU Committee Member 1992-1993
Connie Duer M.S. SMSU Committee Member 1992-2000
John Ashcraft M.S. SMSU Committee Member 1996-1999
Heather Headrick M.N.A.S. SMSU Advisor 1996-2000
Don Harms M.N.A.S. SMSU Advisor 1997-2000
Cary Crow M.N.A.S. SMSU Committee Member 1996-1999
Christine Wilson M.N.A.S. SMSU Committee Member 1996-2000
Ed Ferguson M.N.A.S. SMSU Advisor 1998-2000
Jennifer Parker M.N.A.S. SMSU Committee Member 1998-2000
Karen Bailey M.N.A.S. SMSU Advisor 1999-2001
Residents
Name Degree Institution Advisor/Committee Dates
Timothy Evans Resident Univ of Missouri Committee Member 1993-94
Don Peters Resident Univ of Missouri Committee Member 1993-94
Manoel Tamassia Resident Univ of Missouri Committee Member 1993-94
Neal Brackett Resident Univ of Missouri Committee Member 1993-94
RESEARCH ACTIVITIES FUNDED
Title PI/Co-I Agency Total Amount Dates
Artificial Insemination PI Peace River Refuge $156,000 1999-01
in Rhinoceros
Use of Genetic Markers PI Peace River Refuge $12,000 1998-99
To Evaluate Genetic Diversity
In the Captive Elephant Population
of North America
Lutenizing Hormone Levels PI SMSU Faculty $3,850 1997-98
In Asian Elephants Research Grant
A Comparison of Freezing PI SMSU Faculty $3,985 1996
Protocols On Post-thaw Research Grant
Viability of Asian Elephant Semen
Reproduction Physiology Co-I A.B. Technology & $66,885 1996
Micromanipulation SMSU Foundation
Ultrasound Investigation of Co-I SMSU & Friends of the $ 3,000 1995-96
Reproductive Events in Asian Zoo-Dickerson Park Zoo
Elephants
Artificial Insemination of Co-I Institute of Museum $ 50,000 1992-95
Asian Elephants Sciences-Conservation
Project
Effects of Musth in Asian Co-I Institute of Museum $ 50,000 1991-92
Male Elephants Sciences- Conservation
Project
Semen Characteristics of Co-I AZA SSP Committee $ 5,000 1991-92
Maned Wolves
Freezing Asian Elephant Co-I SMSU & Friends of the $ 2,000 1989
Semen Zoo- Dickerson Park Zoo
Artificial Insemination of Co-I Institute of Museum $25,000 1986-87
Asian Elephants Sciences- Conservation
Project
Embryo Transfer in Scimitar- Co-I Institute of Museum $50,000 1985-87
horned Oryx Sciences- Conservation
Project
Research Projects have focused upon investigations of reproductive biotechnology in endangered species. These projects have drawn from the experience of reproductive physiology of domestic animals and are primarily applied research. Pending projects include artificial insemination of cheetahs, and maned wolves at Dickerson Park Zoo. Artificial insemination of elephants is being conducted in conjunction with several zoos in North America (Baton Rogue, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Denver, Louisville, Seattle, Portland).
SEMINARS & PRESENTATIONS (over 50)
Issues in Breeding Elephants in Captivity, Central Regional AZA Conference, Toledo, Ohio, May 2000
Issues in Breeding Elephants in Captivity, Southwest Missouri Regional Science Fair, Springfield, MO April, 2000
Elephant Conservation for Circuses, Circus 2000, Sarasota, Fl. January 2000
Issues in Elephant Reproduction, Circus 2000, Sarasota, Fl. January 2000
Elephants. Pachyderm Club, Springfield, MO. January 2000
Taking Public Affairs Into the Community. Panel member for the Workshop during the Showcase on Teaching. SMSU. Springfield, MO. January 2000
Elephants. McBride Elementary, Springfield, MO November 1999
Elephants. Mark Twain Elementary, Springfield, MO November 1999
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Management Association Training School, Riddles Elephant Sanctuary, November 1999.
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Management Training School, Riddles Elephant Sanctuary, May 1999.
Elephants: The megavertebrate. Kwanis Club, Springfield, MO, June 1999
Elephants: The megavertebrate. Golden Age Group, East Sunshine Church of Christ, June 1999
Ultrasonographic Reproductive Assessment of Elephants. Pre-Veterinary Club, SMSU, March 1999
Ultrasonographic Reproductive Assessment of Elephants. Roger Williams Park Zoo Donor Breakfast, March 1999
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Telethon for Technology, Springfield Public Schools, December 1998
Use of Ultrasound Technology, Technology Expo, SMSU, October 1998
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Management Association Training School, Riddles Elephant Sanctuary, May 1998. Invited presentation.
Genetics and Zoo Animals. Dickerson Park Zoo Docents, April 1998.
Keeping Seasonal Breeders Seasonal. Ozark Dairy Workshop on Intensive Grazing Management. Ozark Mo. Dariy Extentsion meeting. December 1997.
Ultrasongraphic Reproductive Assessment of Elephants. Washington State University - A.B. Technology, Inc. November 1997
Ultrasound evaluation of Pregnancy in Sheep. Polk and Greene County Sheep Project Members. October 1997.
So You Want To Be a Zoo Veterinarian. Dickerson Park Zoo, August 1997. Workshop for Zoo Teens.
Semen Collection of an African Elephant. Workshop, 2nd Annual Elephant Research Symposium. Pittsburg, PA. July 1997.
Ultrasonographic Assessment of African Elephants. Workshop, 2nd Annual Elephant Research Symposium. Pittsburg, PA. July 1997.
Surgical Artificial Insemination in Elephants. Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research. Berlin, Germany. June 1997.
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Management Association Training School, Riddles Elephant Sanctuary, May 1997. Invited presentation
Collection and Evaluation of Elephant Semen - Paper presented at First Annual Elephant Research Symposium, (1996).
Techniques of Artificial Insemination in Elephants - Paper presented at First Annual Elephant Research Symposium, (1996).
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Management Association Training School, Riddles Elephant Sanctuary, May 1996. Invited presentation.
Recent Advances in Reproductive Technology - University of Missouri Veterinary Fall Conference (1996).
Reproductive Mamagement of Dairy Cattle. Polk County Dairy Extension Meeting. March 1997.
Reproductive Mamagement of Dairy Cattle. Christian County Dairy Extension Meeting. March 1997.
Reproductive Mamagement of Dairy Cattle. Lawrence County Dairy Extension Meeting. March 1997.
Research in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Research Symposium, Indianapolis, Indiana, June 1996.
Recent Advances in Reproductive Physiology of Elephants, Elephant Management
Association Training School, Riddles Elephant Sanctuary, May 1996.
Applied Reproduction of Endangered Species in a Zoo Setting, Coalition for Animals & Animal Research, University of Mo., 1991.
Reproductive Technology for Exotic Animals, College of the Ozarks, 1987.
Embryo Transfer in the Scimitar-horned Oryx, AAZVA Annual Meeting, November 1986.
Embryo Transfer in the Scimitar-horned Oryx, AAZPA Annual Meeting, September 1986.
Semen Collection in the Asian Elephant, AAZPA Annual Meeting, September 1986.
Publications (manuscripts, abstracts, posters)
Pace, Lanny W., Schmitt, D.L. Multiple Congenital Cardiac Anomalies in a Newborn
Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus). North Central Conference of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Submitted April 2000, East Lansing, MI.
Schmitt, D.L., Hardy, D.A., Montali, R.J., Richman, L.K., Lindsay, W.A., Isaza, R., West, G. Use of Famciclovir for the Treatment of Herpesvirus Infections in Asian Elephants. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine. Submitted November 1999.
Hermes, Robert, Olson, D., Goritz, F., Brown, J. L., Schmitt, D.L., Hagan, D., Peterson, J., Fritsch, G., and Hildebrandt, T.B. Ultrasonography of the sexual cycle in female African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Zoo Biology. Submitted January 2000.
Brown, J.L., Schmitt, D.L., Bellem, A., Graham, L.H., Lehnhardt, J. Hormone Secretion in the Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) Characterization of Ovulatory and Anovulatory LH Surges. Animal Reproductive Science. Biology of Reproduction 61: 1294-1299. 1999
Hildebrandt, T.B., Goritz, F., Hermes, R., Schmitt, D., Brown, J.L., Schwammer, H., Loskutoff, N., Pratt, N.C., Lehnhardt, J.l., Montali, R.J., Olson, D. Artificial Insemination of African (Loxodonta africana) and Asian (Elephas maximus) Elephants. Proceedings of A.A.Z.V., Columbus, Ohio, USA. October, 1999. pp. 83-86.
Hildebrandt, T.B., Fritsch, G., Hermes, R., Jewgenow, K., Rudolph, M., Maltzan, J., Wiesner, H., Pratt, N.C., Nieffer, D., Schmitt, D.L., Goritz, F. Ultrasound Monitoring of the Sexual Maturation in the Male Elephant. Proceedings of A.A.Z.V., Columbus, Ohio, USA. October, 1999. pp.203-204.
Richman, L.K., Montali, R.J., Cambre, R.C., Schmitt, D., hardy, d., Garber, R.L., Hildebrandt, T., Fickel, J., Schaftenaar, W., and Hayward, G.S. Clinical and Pathologic Aspects of a Fatal Herpesvirus Disease in Asian (Elephas maximus) and African (Loxodonta africana) Elephants. Proceedings of A.A.Z.V., Columbus, Ohio, USA. October, 1999. pp. 263-265.
Richman, L.K., Montali, R.J., Cambre, R.C. Schmitt, D.L., Hardy, D., Hildebrandt, T., Hamzeh, F.M., Shahkolahi, A., Hayward, G.S. Clinical and Pathological Findings of a Newly recognized Disease of Elephants Caused by Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus. Journal of Wildlife Diseases. 2000 Schmitt, D.L., Hildebrandt, T, Goretz, F., Hermes, R., Reproductive Evaluations: Ultrasonographic Evaluation Criteria for a Predictive Classification System. 4th International Elephant Research Symposium. June 1999. Altanta, GA.
Duer, C., Carden, M., Schmitt, D., Tomasi, T. Fetal Gender Determination in Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus). 4th International Elephant Research Symposium. June 1999. Altanta, GA.
Schmitt, D.L., Ultrasonographic Changes During Parturition in an Elephant. 4th International Elephant Research Symposium. June 1999. Altanta, GA.
Schmitt, D.L., An Update on the Artificial Insemination Program at Dickerson Park Zoo. 4th International Elephant Research Symposium. June 1999. Altanta, GA.
Schmitt, D.L., Hardy, D.A , Montali, R.J., Richman, L.K., Izsara R, Lindsey W, West G. Use of Famciclovir for Treatment of Herpesvirus in Asian Elephants. 39th International Symposium on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals. pp. 23-26. May 1999, Vienna, Austria.
Richman L, Montali RJ, Hildebrandt TB, Fickel J, Schmitt DL, Hayward GS. Status of a New, Fatal Herpesvirus Disease of Elephants in North America and Europe. 39th International Symposium on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals. pp. 17-22. May 1999, Vienna, Austria
Hildebrandt TB, Goritz F, Schnorrenberg A, Hermes, R, Schmitt D, Hagan D, Peterson J, Brown JL, Loskutoff N, Pratt NC, Lenhardt J, Miller G, Montali RJ, Olson D, Successful Artificial Insemination of Nulliparous African Elephants at the Indianapolis Zoo. 39th International Symposium on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals. pp. 41-46. May 1999, Vienna, Austria.
Lange VA, Hildebrandt TB, Strauss G, Czupalla O, Goritz F, Schaftenaar W, Schmitt D. Möglichkeiten und Grenzen der Geburtshilfe bei Elefanten. 39th International Symposium on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals. pp. 47-58. May 1999, Vienna, Austria.
Hermes R, Olson D, Goritz F, Schmitt DL, Hagan D, Peterson JS, Brown JL, Fritsch G, Hildebrandt TB. Ultrasonographic Characterisation of the Sexual Cycle in Female African Elephants (Loxodonta africana). 39th International Symposium on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals. pp. 35-38. May 1999, Vienna, Austria.
Schmitt DL, Contraception In Zoo Animals, Greene County Medical Society Bulletin. March 1999 Vol. 57:3 p16.
Schmitt DL, Hardy, DA, Treatment of Herpesvirus in Chandra, Greene County Medical Society Bulletin. March 1999 Vol. 57:3 pp. 22-23.
Schmitt DL, Use of Medical Technology at Dickerson Park Zoo, Greene County Medical Society Bulletin. March 1999 Vol. 57:3 p23.
Richman LK, Montali RJ, Garber RL Kennedy MA, Lenhardt J, Hildebrandt TB, Schmitt DL, Hardy DA, Alcendor DJ, Hayward GS. Novel Endotheliotrophic Herpesviruses Fatal for Asian and African Elephants. Science 283: 1171-1176.
Hildebrandt TB, Goritz F, Pratt NC, Schmitt DL, Quandt S, Raath J, Hofmann RR. Reproductive Assessment of Male Elephants (Loxodonta africana and Elephas maximus) by Ultrasonography. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine. 29(2) (1998) 114-128.
Carden M, Schmitt D, Tomasi T, Bradford J, Moll D, Brown J. Utility of serum progesterone and prolactin analysis for assessing reproductive status in the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) Animal Reproductive Science. 53 (1998) 133-142.
Schmitt DL, Hildebrandt TB, Manual collection and characterization of semen from Asian elephants. Animal Reproductive Science. 53 (1998) 309-314.
Schmitt DL, Hildebrandt TB. Manual Collection of Semen from Elephants. Annual Meeting of EMA. September 1998.
Hermes, R., Olson, D., Kapustin, N., Göritz, F., Schmitt, D.L., Brown, J.L., Hagan, D., Peterson, J.S. and and T.B. Hildebrandt: 3rd Poster award" was given at the 2nd International Symposium on Physiology and Ethology of Wild and Zoo Animals in Berlin (Germany) 7-10.10.1998.
Hermes, R., Olson, D., Kapustin, N., Göritz, F., Schmitt, D.L.,. Brown, J.L., Hagan, D., Peterson, J.S. and and T.B. Hildebrandt: Ultrasonography of the estrous cycle in African elephants (Loxodonta africana). 3rd Intern. Elephant Res. Symp., Springfield, MO, USA, 6.-7.06.1998.
Hildebrandt, T.B., Göritz, F., Hermes, R., Schmitt, D.L., Broich, A., Grobler, D., Montali, R.J. and R.R. Hofmann: Recent advances in elephant reproductive strategies. 3rd Intern. Elephant Res. Symp., Springfield, MO, USA, 6.-7.06.1998, (eingeladen).
Hildebrandt, T.B., Göritz, F., Schnorrenberg, A., Hermes, R., Schmitt, D.L., Hagan, D., Peterson, J.S., Brown, J.L., Loskutoff, N., Pratt, N.C., Montali, R.J., Lehnhardt, J.L. and D. Olson: Successful artificial insemination of an African elephant at the Indianapolis Zoo. 17th Meet. Eleph. Manag. Assoc., Indianapolis, IN, USA, 25.-27.09.1998.
Hermes, R., Olson, D., Kapustin, N., Göritz, F., Schmitt, D.L.,. Brown, J.L., Hagan, D., Peterson, J.S. and and T.B. Hildebrandt: Cycle monitoring in African elephants (Loxodonta africana) by transrectal ultrasonography. 2nd Intern. Symp. Physiol. Ethol. Wild and Zoo Anim., Berlin, Deutschland, 7.-10.10.1998.
Hildebrandt, T.B., Göritz, F., Pratt, N.C., Lehnhardt, J.L., Brown, J.L., Howard, J.G., Schmitt, D.L., Jewgenow, K., Cambre, R.C.and R.J. Montali: Artificial Insemination (AI) of an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). I.C.A.R. 50th Anniversary Special Celebrating Conference, Milano, Italy, 14.-16.09.1998.
Hildebrandt, T.B., Göritz, F., Schnorrenberg, A., Hermes, R., Schmitt, D.L., Hagan, D., Peterson, J.S., Brown, J.L., Loskutoff, N., Pratt, N.C., Montali, R.J., Lehnhardt, J.L. and D. Olson: Non-invasive reproductive assessment and successful artificial insemination of a nulliparous African elephant at the Indianapolis Zoo. Annu. Meet. Am. Assoc. Zoo. Vet., Omaha, NE, USA, 17.-22.10.1998.
Hardy DA, Schmitt DL, Montali RJ, Richman LK. Use of Famciclovir for Treatment of Herpesvirus in an Asian Elephant. 3rd International Elephant Reseach Symposium. June 1998.
Schmitt DL. Report of a Successful Artificial Insemination in an Asian Elephant. 3rd International Elephant Reseach Symposium. June 1998.
O'Brein E, Hoffman S, Schawang T, Suedmeyer WK, Easton E, Schmitt D, Loskutoff, NM. An Update on Studies to Improve the Short- and Long-term Storage of Elephant Semen. 3rd International Elephant Reseach Symposium. June 1998.
Schmitt DL, Hildebrandt TB, Goritz F. Ultrasonographic Reproductive Evaluation in Elephants. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the EMA. November 1997 58-60.
Schmitt DL. Tuberculosis Testing - an update. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the EMA. November 1997.
Hildebrandt TB, Goritz F, Pratt NC, Schmitt DL, Lehnhardt J, Hermes R, Quandt S, Raath J, West G, Montali RJ. Assessment of Health and Reproductive Status in African and Asian Elephants by Transrectal Ultrasonography. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the AAZVA. October 1997.
Schmitt DL: Management of Asian Elephants for Breeding. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Western Conference of AZA. 17-18 May 1996.
Schmitt DL, Pruitt JA. Use of Ultrasound for Reproductive Evaluation of Elephants. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of Theriogenology. 15-17 August 1996.
Schmitt DL: Foot Care in Elephants Using a Restraint Device. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of AAZVA. 4-5 November 1996.
Schmitt DL: Use of Azaparone for Standing Sedation in Elephants. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of AAZVA. 4-5 November 1996.
Schmitt DL: Use of Micro Filters Transferring Frozen Embryos. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Society for Theriogenology. 24-25 August 1994.
Carden M, DL Schmitt, T Tomasi: Progesterone and Prolactin Profiles of the Female Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus). Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Elephant Managers Association. 16-19 October 1993.
Bradford J, D Hardy, DL Schmitt: The Use of Azaperone to Achieve Standing Sedation in Asian Elephants. (Elephas maximus). Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Elephant Managers Association. 16-17 October 1993.
Schmitt DL: Freezing Protocols for Asian Elephant Semen. Proceedings of The Great Lakes Regional Conference of the AAZPA. 5-8 March 1989.
Schmitt DL: Semen Collection in Asian Elephants. Proceedings of Annual Meeting of AAZPA. 10-14 October 1986.
Schmitt DL: Embryo Transfer in the Scimitar-horned Oryx. Proceedings of Annual meeting of AAZPA. 10-14 October 1986.
Schmitt DL: Non-surgical Embryo Transfer in Scimitar-horned Oryx. Proceedings of Annual Meeting of AAZV. 2-6 November 1986.
Schmitt DL: Non-surgical Embryo Transfer Successful as Surgical. Veterinary Scope 3:(2) 6-7 1984.
Martin CE, DL Schmitt, JW Van Buren: Multi Farm Dairy Heifer Breeding Management Demonstration Trial Utilizing Three Lutalyse Programs in Southwest Missouri. Upjohn Technical Report 003-9661-82-008 1982.
Schmitt DL, HA Garverick, EC Mather, JD Sikes, BN Day, RE Erb. Induction of Parturition in Dairy cattle with Dexamethasone and Estradiol Benzoate. J of Animal Science 40:261-268 (1975).
Mather, EC, HA Garverick, McBurney, DL Schmitt, BN Day. Plasma Estradiol in Holstein and Beef Cows During the Periparturient Period. J of Dairy Science 57:1090-1092 (1974).
SERVICE
1. Department
Serve on Selection Committee for Agricultural Education Position - Spring 1999
Banquet Committee member - Fall 1998
Department Scholarship Committee- Fall 1998
Serve on Selection Committee for Agricultural Education Position - Spring 1998
Serve as Official Veterinarian for SMSU Block & Bridle Club Jackpot Show - Spring 1998
Superintendent Dairy Production District FFA Contest - Spring 1998
Superintendent Milk Products District FFA Contest - Spring 1998
Graduate Studies Representative for Agriculture Department - 1997 - present
Banquet Committee, Chairman - Fall 1997
Superintendent Dairy Production District FFA Contest - Spring 1997
Superintendent Milk Products District FFA Contest - Spring 1997
Serve as Official Veterinarian for SMSU Rodeo - Spring 1997
Dairy Advisory Committee for Agricultural Department, SMSU, 1987-1989
Serve as Official Veterinarian for SMSU Block & Bridle Club Jackpot Show - Spring 1997
Banquet Committee member - Fall 1996
2. College
Participant in Science Day for Springfield Public Schools sponsored by College. - March 1999
Member of Master's of Natural and Applied Science Coordinating Committee 1996- present
Serve as advisor for Pre-veterinary Club. 1996- present
3. University
Graduate Faculty Council, member 1997-present
Member Curricular Screening committee 1998-present
Member Ad Hoc committee - University Vehicle Use Policy 1998 -1999
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, member 1986- 1993, 1997-present
Institutional Veterinarian for SMSU 1998- present
College Fair Committee - 1996-present
4. Community
Grand Prize Selection Committee for Southwest Missouri Regional Science Fair, 2000
Member of Veterinary Technician Advisory Committee (OTC) 1999-2001
Elected Greene County Extension Council - 1998- 2002
Member of election committee 1998-1999
Telethon For Technology - Springfield Public Schools- November 1998
Tour host for group from Springfield to East Africa - Spring 1998
Telethon For Technology - Springfield Public Schools- Spring 1997
Tour host for group from Springfield to South Africa - Spring 1997
Mathematics Curriculum Development Committee, Forsyth School District, 1992
Republic School District, Vocational Agriculture Advisory Board 1990-91
Director, Greene County 4-H Foundation, 1989-1991
5. National
Member of Board of Directors -University of Missouri Alumni Association, - 1999-present
Member of the National Task Force on Tuberculosis in Non-domestic Animals 1997-2000
President of University Missouri Veterinary Medical Alumni Association 1996 - 1999
Reproductive advisor for SSP for Asian and African Elephants 1996 - present
Reproductive advisor for SSP for Scimitar-horned Oryx 1987-1993
6. International
Member - Board of Directors of the International Elephant Foundation 1998 - present
Chairman - Scientific Advisory Committee 1999- present
Program Director for International Elephant Research Symposium. 1999- present
Local Program Committee member for IETS meeting in Omaha, January 2001
Abstract reviewer for International Embryo Transfer Society - Netherlands, January 2000