The Cornell University Hospital for Animals at the College of Veterinary Medicine has named its intensive care unit the Patricia Cornwell Intensive Care Unit for Companion Animals. The best-selling author was honored for her $1 million gift to the college with the installation of a naming plaque on June 9, Cornwell's 50th birthday.

Cornwell's affinity for animals in need and her advocacy for such causes as forensic research, victims' support and animal rescue have been recognized through her contributions to several institutions, including the Vet College.

The gift was pledged to Cornell after Cornwell brought her English bulldog, Booboo, to Cornell's animal hospital, where he received care from Richard Goldstein, Cornell veterinary internist, and the hospital's clinicians. When Cornwell returned with another English bulldog, Okey, she was again impressed, she said, with the level of excellence at the hospital.

"Cornell is the place to go, without a doubt, if there's something wrong with one of your animals," said Cornwell. "I believe you look at the life in front of you, and do what you can. That's what they do at Cornell."

With Cornwell's gift, the Companion Animal Hospital has installed a wireless server that beams magnetic resonance images, computed tomography (CT) scans, ultrasounds and radiographic images. This technology upgrade allows the medical team to quickly view and share images, which, in turn, speeds up the diagnoses and treatment of patients.

More than 17,000 animals are treated at the Companion Animal Hospital every year. Cornwell's support has improved patient care and provides a critical teaching tool for Cornell's veterinary students.

"We are honored to have the Intensive Care Unit for Companion Animals named for Patricia Cornwell," said Donald F. Smith, Cornell's Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "Her generous support ensures the Companion Animal Hospital will continue to lead the way in integrating scientific research and clinical applications to advance the health of animals and people."

Cornwell is a former crime reporter and a New York Times best-selling author of fiction and nonfiction. She has achieved international acclaim for such books as "Predator," "Trace" and "Portrait of a Killer: Jack the Ripper -- Case Closed." Her latest New York Times' best seller, "At Risk," was published by G.P. Putnam's Sons on May 23.