Veterinarians around the world may submit uroliths from companion animals to the Minnesota Urolith Center at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine for analysis at no cost. In addition to providing a free service for veterinarians, the center collects data on urinary disease in companion animals.

The center was founded by Dr. Carl Osborne in 1981, and it investigates the causes, treatment, and prevention of urolithiasis. The center is funded in part by Hill's Pet Nutrition. Researchers at the center use data collected from the analysis of uroliths submitted by veterinarians to develop noninvasive treatments and diagnostic tools.

"The work Dr. Osborne spearheaded has actually changed the way veterinarians diagnose, treat, and prevent many formerly life-threatening urinary diseases in companion animals," said Dr. Mary Beth Leininger, director of professional affairs at Hill's and a former president of the AVMA.

More information about the center and how to submit uroliths for analysis is available online, at www.cvm.umn.edu/depts/MinnesotaUrolithCenter/, or at (612) 625-4221.