About Dr. James Richardson

My introduction to the devastating effects of ivermectin toxicity came during a research rotation in graduate school. A colleague's Australian Shepherd had ingested horse dewormer paste from an unlocked tack room. By the time the dog reached the teaching hospital, he was already showing severe neurological signs. That case, which ended poorly despite our best efforts, shaped the trajectory of my career.

I realized that understanding drug toxicity at the molecular level, how certain genetic variations make some animals vulnerable to drugs others tolerate easily, could save lives. That realization led me to pursue a doctorate in veterinary toxicology with a focus on P-glycoprotein function and the MDR1 mutation. Twenty years later, I still see cases that should never have happened.

Education and Training

I earned my DVM from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, where I developed a strong interest in pharmacology and drug metabolism. After completing a rotating internship in small animal medicine, I returned to Cornell for doctoral studies in veterinary toxicology, focusing my dissertation research on P-glycoprotein function and genetic polymorphisms affecting drug disposition in dogs.

My doctoral research established some of the early correlations between MDR1 genotype and clinical sensitivity to macrocyclic lactones. This work laid the foundation for many of the dosing recommendations that are now standard in veterinary practice for MDR1-affected dogs.

Following my PhD, I completed a residency in veterinary toxicology and achieved board certification from the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology (ABVT). This dual training in both clinical medicine and toxicological research gives me a unique perspective on how basic science translates to patient care.

Current Work

I currently serve as a consulting toxicologist, working with veterinary clinics across the country on challenging poisoning cases. I provide both real-time consultation during emergencies and retrospective case review for quality improvement. My caseload spans the full range of veterinary toxicology, but drug sensitivity cases, particularly those involving MDR1-affected dogs, remain a primary focus.

I also maintain an active research program investigating treatment outcomes in macrocyclic lactone toxicity. Recent work has focused on optimizing lipid emulsion therapy protocols and identifying prognostic factors that help veterinarians and owners make informed decisions about intensive care.

Research and Publications

My publication record includes over fifty peer-reviewed papers on veterinary pharmacology and toxicology. Key contributions include studies characterizing the dose-response relationship for ivermectin in MDR1 homozygous versus heterozygous dogs, evaluation of lipid emulsion therapy efficacy, and development of clinical decision support tools for managing drug sensitivity emergencies.

I serve on the editorial boards of several veterinary pharmacology and toxicology journals and regularly review manuscripts related to P-glycoprotein pharmacology and drug interactions. Peer review is essential for maintaining scientific rigor in our field.

Teaching and Advocacy

Education is central to preventing drug toxicity cases. I lecture regularly at veterinary conferences on MDR1 pharmacogenomics, provide continuing education for practicing veterinarians, and mentor graduate students and residents in toxicology. The next generation of veterinary toxicologists will face new challenges as drug development continues to advance.

I am also committed to public education about drug sensitivities. Too many owners learn about the MDR1 mutation only after their dog experiences toxicity. This website represents my effort to reach dog owners before crisis strikes. Clear, accurate information about drug sensitivities can prevent tragedies.

I work with breed clubs and rescue organizations to promote genetic testing and awareness. Responsible breeders who test their breeding stock and educate puppy buyers are essential partners in reducing the incidence of drug toxicity events.

Why This Matters

Every consultation I take on an ivermectin toxicity case represents a preventable emergency. A genetic test that costs under one hundred dollars would have identified the dog's vulnerability. A locked cabinet would have prevented access to the offending medication. A veterinarian who asked about breed history would have chosen a different drug.

The frustration of seeing preventable cases drives my commitment to education. I cannot personally test every at-risk dog or lock every medication cabinet. But I can provide information that empowers owners and veterinarians to make better decisions. I can translate decades of research into practical guidance that protects vulnerable dogs.

The MDR1 mutation is not a death sentence. Dogs who carry it live full, healthy lives when their owners know about the sensitivity and take appropriate precautions. My goal is simple: ensure that knowledge reaches everyone who needs it, before they need it urgently.

Contact

For clinical questions about MDR1 drug sensitivity, please consult your veterinarian. For general inquiries about this website, use the contact form. I read all incoming messages, though I cannot provide individual medical advice for specific cases.

For veterinary professionals interested in consultation or continuing education on toxicology protocols, please reach out through the contact form with details about your needs.