bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Luxation of the radial carpal bone in a cat
Authors: Pitcher G. D. C.
Published: April 2008

A case of radial carpal bone luxation in the cat and its management is described. Open reduction was performed and surgically maintained, in combination with repair of rupture of the short radial collateral ligament and joint capsule. The carpus was supported for one month following surgery by application of transarticular external fixation. Four months after treatment the cat was sound, despite evidence of degenerative joint disease. The mechanism of luxation appears to be analogous to that seen in the dog.
Parotid sialolithiasis in a dog
Authors: Jeffreys D. A. , Stasiw A. , Dennist R.
Published: April 2008

A case of parotid sialolithiasis is reported. Rupture of the duct followed and this was successfully treated by surgical drainage through anatomical reconstruction of the duct.
Interictal electroencephalographic findings in a family of golden retrievers with idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Srenk P. , Jaggy A.
Published: April 2008

This study investigated how far electro‐encephalographic (EEG) testing may help in the confirmation of idiopathic epilepsy (IE) in dogs. We found significantly constant (P < 0.05) and similar values of amplitude and frequency under medetomidine/propofol anaesthesia. The baseline pattern of healthy and the background activity of the epileptic dogs were characterised by an homogeneous high voltage slow activity and low voltage fast activity pattern with no significantly different values between tracings. However, we frequently found spindles in all recordings of the epileptic dogs. They impressed by asymmetries as well as significant variation in amplitude and duration. We concluded from these observations that, despite deep anaesthesia, the EEG abnormalities were consistent and extremely important for the confirmation of IE in the dog. In addition, 10 per cent of the offspring in our golden retriever family were positive for spindles, if the EEG was taken at the age of maximal expression. We concluded that this does not mean that this factor is genetically dependent, but that its interaction may increase the liability to contract seizures in the golden retriever. We believe that EEG combined with pedigree analysis may be very helpful in risk assessment of IE in the dog.
Vitamin K deficiency in cats fed commercial fish‐based diets
Authors: Strieker M. J. , Morris J. G. , Feldman B. F. , Rogers Q. R.
Published: April 2008

Clinical signs of vitamin K deficiency have been observed in cats offered two commercial canned diets high in salmon or tuna. Some of the queens and kittens offered these diets had died while survivors had increased coagulation times. Necropsies revealed hepatic and, or, gastrointestinal haemorrhages. Coagulation times of survivors returned to normal after vitamin K therapy. The purpose of this study was to induce a vitamin K deficiency in kittens and determine the dietary requirement. Kittens were offered vitamin K‐deficient purified diets containing antibiotics and, or, substances inherent in canned fish diets that may have contributed to the deficiency. Clinical signs of vitamin K deficiency were not observed, even though one purified diet contained only 4 μg K1/kg diet compared with 60 μg in the commercial tuna diet. Therefore, a minimum vitamin K requirement could not be determined using purified diets; nevertheless, canned commercial diets formulated primarily with fish should contain more than 60 μg K1/kg diet.
Resolution of dysrhythmias and conduction abnormalities following treatment for bacterial endocarditis in a dog
Authors: Boswood A.
Published: April 2008

A four‐year‐old boxer presented with a recent history of intermittent collapse. The dog was found to have dysrhythmias and conduction abnormalities which were attributed to the presence of aortic bacterial endocarditis. These dysrhythmias and conduction abnormalities resolved following antibacterial treatment of the endocarditis. Specific antiarrhythmic therapy was not required. The short term response to therapy was good. The long term prognosis remains guarded in view of the damage the aortic valve has undergone.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency combined with insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus in a juvenile German shepherd dog
Authors: Neiger R. , Jaunin V. Bornand , Boujon C. E.
Published: April 2008

Canine juvenile‐onset insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus is a rare disease. While pancreatic acinar atrophy is a well known picture in the dog, the simultaneous occurrence with an endocrine insufficiency has never been clearly established. The clinical, pathological and immunohistochemical findings of a three‐month‐old German shepherd dog with insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus concurrent with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency are described.
Management of antebrachial deformity and shortening secondary to a synostosis in a dog
Authors: Langley‐Hobbs S. J. , Carmichael S. , Pead M. J. , Torrington A. M.
Published: April 2008

A nine‐week‐old labrador was presented with a deformed left forelimb causing obvious lameness. Radiographs suggested that the dog had suffered a fracture involving the radius and ulna which had healed resulting in a synostosis. There was a concurrent radial physeal injury. The dog was treated initially by osteotomy of the radius and ulna stabilised using a static external skeletal fixator. At a subsequent surgery lengthening of the limb was achieved by using an Ilizarov apparatus. Worsening carpal hyperflexion was managed by bandaging in forced extension. A successful outcome was achieved with a final result of a 24 per cent discrepancy in length between the two radii at 17 months of age. An increase in length of the ipsilateral humerus was seen in association with the shortened forelimb.
Prevalence of bacteria in the conjunctival sac and on the eyelid margin of clinically normal cats
Authors: Espínolaz M. B. , Lilenbaum W.
Published: April 2008

Samples from the palpebral conjunctiva, third eyelid and eyelid margin from 50 asymptomatic cats were analysed. Sixty‐seven per cent of the samples showed bacterial growth with a high predominance of the genus Staphylococcus (97‐8 per cent) predominantly coagulase‐negative (93‐5 per cent). The most frequent species was S epi‐dermidis (45‐7 per cent), followed by S simulans (23‐9 per cent), S auricularis [17A per cent) and S saprophyticus (6‐5 per cent). Three samples of S aureus (6‐5 per cent) and one of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (2‐1 per cent) were also identified. The role of these microorganisms in the eyes of cats is discussed and the importance of the new species Staphylococcus felis is stressed.
Treatment of acquired myasthenia gravis associated with thymoma in two dogs
Authors: Rusbridge C. , White R. N. , Elwood C. M. , Wheeler S. J.
Published: April 2008

Two cases of myasthenia gravis associated with thymoma are reported. Both were female German shepherd dogs and the thymoma was surgically resected. Aspiration pneumonia secondary to persistent megaoesophagus was a complication in both cases. The myasthenia gravis did not resolve, but there was a more satisfactory control of clinical signs with anticholinesterase treatment. Corticosteroid therapy was used in one case, but the resulting polydipsia increased the incidence of regurgitation, resulting in recurrent episodes of aspiration pneumonia.
Diagnosis of right coronary artery to right atrial fistula in a dog using two‐dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Jacobs G. J. , Calvert C. A. , Hall D. G. , Kraus M.
Published: April 2008

A five‐year‐old boxer dog developed cardiac murmurs, complete heart block and car‐diomegaly associated with vegetative bacterial endocarditis. Using two‐dimensional echocardiography, vegetative lesions of the aortic valves and extension of the vegetations into the proximal right coronary artery and adjacent atrial septum were identified. The vegetation within the atrial septum appeared as a cavitated mass which protruded into the right atrium. Fistulae within the atrial septal vegetation permitting communication between the coronary artery and right atrium were observed with colour Doppler echocardiography. The dog died despite medical treatment. Post mortem examination confirmed the echo‐cardiographic findings. Vegetative endocarditis with invasion into the right coronary artery and atrial septum producing fistulae and communication with the right atrium has not been reported previously in dogs. Doppler echocardiography proved useful in demonstrating the abnormal anatomy, intraluminal fistular blood flow and its communication with the right atrium.
Sperm granuloma in the dog: Complication of vasectomy
Authors: Aguirre A. M. Mayenco , Fernandez P. García , Muela M. Sanchez
Published: April 2008

This report presents a case of bilateral sperma‐tocoele‐sperm granuloma in the dog caused by an improperly performed vasectomy.
Ultrasound‐ guided catheter biopsy of the lower urinary tract: technique and results in 12 dogs
Authors: Lamb C. R. , Trower N. D. , Gregory S. P.
Published: April 2008

Ultrasound‐guided catheter biopsy of lesions affecting the lower urinary tract was attempted in 12 dogs with mucosal lesions affecting the bladder [nine] or urethra (three). Histological biopsies were obtained by catheter biopsy in 10 dogs, enabling diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma in five, papilloma in two, prostatic carcinoma in two and chronic cystitis in one. Cytological samples alone were obtained in two dogs, one of which enabled a diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma; the other contained evidence of haemorrhage and inflammation, but squamous cell carcinoma was found in a subsequent exci‐sional biopsy. Intravesicular haemorrhage after biopsy was observed ultrasonographically in two dogs. Ultrasound guidance enables accurate determination of biopsy catheter position. The size of biopsies obtained by this method may limit the accuracy of histological diagnosis.
Intestinal permeability and function in dogs with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
Authors: Rutgers H. C. , Batt R. M. , Proud F. J. , Søorensen S. H. , Elwood C. M. , Petrie G. , Matthewman L. A. , Hijfte M. A. Forster‐van , Boswood A. , Entwistle M. , Fensome R. H.
Published: April 2008

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) has been reported to occur commonly in dogs with signs of chronic intestinal disease. There are usually few intestinal histological changes, and it is uncertain to what extent bacteria cause mucosal damage. The aim of this study was to apply a differential sugar absorption test for intestinal permeability and function to the objective assessment of intestinal damage in dogs with SIBO. Studies were performed on 63 dogs with signs of chronic small and, or, large bowel disease, in which SIBO (greater than 105total or greater than 104anaerobic colony forming units/ml) was diagnosed by quantitative culture of duodenal juice obtained endoscopically. None of the dogs had evidence of intestinal pathogens, parasites, systemic disease or pancreatic insufficiency. Differential sugar absorption was performed by determining the ratios of urinary recoveries of lactulose/rhamnose (L/R ratio, which reflects permeability) and D‐xylose/3‐O‐methylglucose (X/G ratio, which reflects intestinal absorptive function) following oral administration. Dogs with SIBO comprised 28 different breeds, including 18 German shepherd dogs. SIBO was aerobic in 18/63 dogs (29 per cent), and anaerobic in 45/63 (71 per cent). Histological examination of duode‐nal biopsies showed no abnormalities in 75 per cent, and mild to moderate lymphocytic infiltrates in 25 per cent of the dogs. The L/R ratio was increased (greater than 0–12) in 52 per cent, and the X/G ratio reduced (less than 0–60) in 33 per cent of the dogs. Differential sugar absorption was repeated in 11 dogs after their four weeks of oral antibiotic therapy. The L/R ratio declined in all 11 dogs (mean ± SD pre: 0–24 ± 0–14; post: 0–16 ± 0–11; P<0–05), but changes in the X/G ratio were more variable. These findings show that SIBO is commonly associated with mucosal damage, not detected on histological examination of intestinal biopsies, and that changes in intestinal permeability following oral antibiotics may be used to monitor response to treatment.
Teres minor myopathy as a cause of lameness in a dog
Authors: Bruce W. J. , Spence S. , Miller A.
Published: April 2008

A case of a teres minor myopathy causing chronic lameness in a flve‐yearold working iabrador retriever Is described. Uitrasonography was used to assist in detection of the condition and a definitive diagnosis was made by histological examination after muscle excision. Medical treatment was ineffective, but excision of the affected muscle resulted in complete resolution of the lameness with no apparent adverse affects on joint function. The aetiology of this condition Is unknown.
Hemilaminectomy for the treatment of thoracolumbar disc disease in the dog: a follow‐uo studv of 40 cases
Authors: Scott H. W.
Published: April 2008

A study was made of dogs with Hansen type I thoracolumbar disc extrusions that had been treated by hemilaminectomy and fenestration of the affected disc. Follow‐up information was available for 40 dogs undergoing treatment over a five‐year period. The follow‐up period ranged from 12 to 72 months (mean 34 months). The case details and the results of treatment of these 40 dogs are presented. All dogs were graded according to the degree of neurological dysfunction at the time of initial presentation and at the conclusion of the study period. Twenty‐seven dogs (68 per cent) had no detectable signs of neurological dysfunction or thoracolumbar pain at the final assessment and a further eight dogs (20 per cent) had mild ambulatory paraparesis but were regarded by their owners as functional pets. Recurrence of neurological signs consistent with thoracolumbar disc disease was seen in five dogs (13 per cent) and was successfully resolved completely in one of three dogs that were treated.
Testicular fine needle aspiration cytology as a diagnostic tool in dog infertility
Authors: Dahlbom M. , Mäkinen A. , Suominen J.
Published: April 2008

The results of testicular aspirate cytology taken from clinical patients with a history of infertility were compared with the clinical and histological findings. Azoospermia was the most common and the most rewarding indication for the examination. Samples were also taken from cases with suspected testicular tumours, orchitis, epididymitis, severe oligo‐ and teratozoospermia, lack of libido and unilateral testicular atrophy. Histological and cytological findings were found to correlate well. Identification of cell types from normal germinal epithelium was relatively easy. No Immediate adverse effects of aspiration were noted. Five normospermic dogs were monitored for two to six months after aspiration, and there were no marked deleterious effects on testicular consistency, testicular histology or semen characteristics. Testicular cytology obtained by fine needle aspiration may, at least to some extent, be used to assist clinical diagnosis, especially In azoospermlc dogs and dogs with palpable changes of testicular tissue.
Persistent left cranial vena cava associated with multiple congenital anomalies in a six‐week‐old puppy
Authors: Palacio M. J. Fernandez del , Bernal L. , Bayón A. , Fuentes V. Luis
Published: April 2008

A six‐week‐old male puppy was presented with a distended abdomen, dypsnoea and cyanosis. Auscultation revealed a grade II/VI systolic murmur. Thoracic radiographs showed gross cardiomegaly. An electrocardiogram revealed a narrow‐complex tachycardia, deep S waves in leads I, II, III and aVF, and negative P a waves in lead III. Two‐dimensional echocardiography showed a high ventricular septal defect and marked dilation of the right‐sided chambers. There was also an echolucent structure lateral to the left atrium at a site corresponding to the coronary sinus. Contrast echocardiography revealed right‐to‐left shunting through the septal defect. Necropsy confirmed the existence of a septal defect in the membranous part of the septum and a persistent left cranial vena cava with dilation of the coronary sinus. In addition, a small patent t ductus arteriosus and tricuspid dysplasia were present.
In vivo quantification of muscle damage in dogs after general anaesthesia with halothane andpropofol
Authors: Aktas B. M. , Vinclair P. , Autefage A. , Lefebvre H. P. , Toutain P. L. , Braun J. P.
Published: April 2008

Muscle damage in dogs anaesthetised with halothane and propofol was quantified by measurement of the area under the curve of plasma creatine kinase (CK) versus time. Plasma CK remained unchanged during anaesthesia for two and a half and five hours. Following halothane anaesthesia of dogs (resting on one side directly on the surgical table or on cushions, and with or without rotation of the body every 30 minutes), plasma CK was elevated in some animals to 10 000 U/litre by the 12th hour (baseline value ≤100 u/litre), whereas it remained almost unchanged in other animals. Plasma CK then returned to reference values on day 2 or 3. The mean equivalent of muscle damaged ranged from 0–6 to 0–9 g/kg bodyweight. No muscle damage could be demonstrated in animals anaesthetised with propofol. It is therefore concluded that plasma CK should not be used as a diagnostic aid following halothane anaesthesia because of false positives due to the halothane anaesthesia itself and that propofol Is best suited for the investigation of muscle damage due to surgical procedures.
Normative auditory brainstem response data for hearing threshold and neuro‐otological diagnosis in the dog
Authors: Shiu J. N. , Munro K. J. , Cox C. L.
Published: April 2008

There Is growing Interest In the application of auditory brainstem response (ABR) audlometry for hearing assessment In dogs. The technique is far from standardised, however, resulting In large discrepancles between studies. This study aimed to obtain normative data, under clearly defined conditions, for two breeds of significantly different size; head size being a potential factor determining ABR latency values. The subjects, 20 daimatians and 20 Jack Russell terriers, were sedated prior to ABR testing, and subcutaneous scalp electrodes used to detect the evoked potential ellclted by a click stimulus presented via Insert earphones. The mean ABR thresholds for the two breeds, 0 and ‐5 decibels re normal hearing level (dB nHL), respectively, were very simllar to those for humans. The latency values of the main ABR waves and the Interval between them were statistically significantly smaller for the smaller breed, but there was no correlation with head size within either breed. The results provide a baseline to assist with confirmation of hearing Impalrment and neuro‐otological diagnosis In the dog.
Duplex Doppler measurements of renal blood flow in a dog widi Addison's disease
Authors: Koch J. , Jensen* A. L. , Wenck A. , Iversen L. , Lykkegaard K.
Published: April 2008

Abnormal intrarenal flow In a seven‐year old female Tibetan terrier with Addison's disease was demonstrated by duplex Doppler examination. Abnormal flow may reflect renal vasoconstriction due to increased activity of the renin‐anglotensln system. Although not pathognomonic, an Increased resistive Index (< 0‐70) In an otherwise ultrasonographically normal kidney can be due to Addison's disease and the technique may prove valuable as a quick non‐Invasive tool In the management of this disease.
Feline leukaemia virus: a review of immunity and vaccination
Authors: Sparkes A. H.
Published: April 2008

The availability of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) vaccines has added a new and important dimension to the control of this infectious agent. FeLV vaccination is a controversial issue, however, partly because of differences in the formulation between the current products, partly because of conflicting claims by vaccine manufacturers and partly because experimental trials have shown that none of the vaccines provides 100 per cent protection against infection. This paper reviews the role of the immune response in determining the outcome following exposure to FeLV and describes the importance of FeLV subgroups. The five commercial FeLV vaccines currently available in the USA and Europe are described and the published literature on efficacy studies is summarised. However, these efficacy studies are often difficult to interpret for various reasons, including the small numbers of animals used; differences in challenge methods, vaccine strains and vaccine dose employed; and differences in postchallenge monitoring protocols.
Effect of circumcostal gastropexy on gastric myoelectric and motor activity in dogs
Authors: Hall J. A. , Willer R. L. , Solie T. N. , Twedt D. C.
Published: April 2008

Gastric electrical and contractile activities were assessed in healthy adult dogs on the eighth day after circumcostai gastropexy surgery, using serosai electrodes and strain gauge force transducers. Recordings were anaiysed to determine gastric slow wave frequency, presence of gastric slow wave dysrhythmlas, gastric slow wave propagation velocity, coupling of gastric contractions to slow waves, a gastric motility index based on relative contractile amplitudes, and onset of gastric contractions after a standardized meal. Overall, gastric electrical and contractile activities were relatively unaffected by circumcostai gastropexy.
Suspected primary immunodeficiency syndrome in three related Irish wolfhounds
Authors: Leisewitz A. L. , Spencer J. A. , Jacobson L. S. , Schroeder H.
Published: April 2008

Three related Irish wolfhound dogs less than one year old presented with a history of chronic nasal discharge and signs of lower respiratory tract disease. These responded well to treatment initially but were chronically recurring. Cursory evaluation of the immune system (full blood counts, globulin determination and fractionation, electrophoresis and lymphocyte blastogenesis) seemed to indicate a cell‐mediated immunodeficiency which, because of the age of the patients, Is strongly suspected to be primary.
Suspected mitochondrial myopathy in a Jack Russell terrier
Authors: Olby N. J. , Chan K. K. , Targett M. P. , Houlton J. E. F.
Published: April 2008

A Jack Russell terrier with a history of progressive exercise intolerance was examined at the age of four months and again 10 months later. Clinical examination revealed a stunted, thin dog with a stilted gait. The dog had raised lactate levels before and after feeding and a raised lactate/pyruvate ratio after feeding, indicating a metabolic abnormality. Histochemical evaluation of muscle biopsies revealed subsarcolemmal accumulation of oxidative activity when stained with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide tetrazolium reductase and ragged red fibres when stained with modified Gomori trichrome; all fibre types were involved. Ultrastructural examination of the muscle confirmed the presence of subsarcolemmal accumulations of mitochondria. Histochemical staining for the activity of enzymes of the Krebs cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and other metabolic cytosolic enzymes failed to demonstrate an abnormality. In view of the clinical picture and the biochemical and histological findings, a tentative diagnosis of mitochondrial myopathy was made. The difficulties associated with diagnosing mitochondrial disorders are discussed.
Lipomatous infiltration of the canine salivary gland
Authors: Brown P. J. , Lucke V. M. , Sozmen M. , Whitbread T. J. , Wyatt J. M.
Published: April 2008

Benign connective tumours of the canine salivary glands are rare. This report describes lipomatous infiltration of parotid or submandibular salivary glands in seven dogs in which the glands were enlarged as a result of infiltration by fat cells; they appeared to have been successfully treated by local excision. The precise cause of the lipomatous infiltration in the dogs is unclear but different causes of similar lesions in humans are discussed.
Superficial necrolytic dermatitis and a pancreatic endocrine tumour in a dog
Authors: Torres S. , Johnson K. , McKeever P. , Hardy R.
Published: April 2008

A 13‐year‐old dog was referred for a severe dermatological problem of 12 months duration. Skin biopsy results were compatible with superficial necrolytic dermatitis. The only laboratory abnormalities were hyperglycaemia and hyperglucagonaemia. These findings suggested a pancreatic endocrine tumour in association with superficial necrolytic dermatitis. Abdominal ultrasound examination was unremarkable. The dog was euthanased due to the lack of clinical improvement following symptomatic therapy. Postmortem examination revealed a pancreatic endocrine tumour with liver metastases. Pancreatic endocrine tumour cells were immunoreactive for glucagon, insulin and islet amyloid polypeptide.
Bilateral pigmented villonodular synovitis in a dog
Authors: Marti J. M.
Published: April 2008

Viilonoduiar synovitis is an extremely rare condition of the synovial membrane in the dog. A 10‐yearoid, neutered crossbreed was presented with bilateral, progressive hindlimb lameness. Periarticuiar swelling was noted in both stifle joints. No craniocaudal instability was noted. Radiographs showed massive intra‐articular soft tissue proliferation in both joints, with no bony involvement. Arthrocentesls was unsuccessful. Exploratory arthrotomy of the left stifle revealed a greatly thickened, florid, proliferative synovial membrane. An Incisional biopsy was carried out and the histopathological diagnosis was chronic active viilonodular synovitis. A radical synovectomy was carried out in the right stifle joint 10 days later. Corticosteroid treatment was initiated 10 days after the second surgery and continued for six weeks, with a continuous clinical improvement. Eighteen months after discontinuation of the steroid therapy, the owners reported no recurrence of clinical signs although a mild stiffness was still present.
Avulsion of the tibial tuberosity in a litter of greyhound puppies
Authors: Skelly C. M. , McAllister H. , Donnelly W. J. C.
Published: April 2008

Avulslon of the tibial tuberosity was dlagnosed In six of seven greyhound ilttermates aged flve and a half months. The puppies showed hindlimb lameness of varying severity. Radiological assessment of affected stifle joints revealed partial or complete avulsion of the tlblal tuberoslties. In four puppies the lesions were bliaterai. Euthanasia of the two most severely affected puppies performed; the changes observed on histopathological examination of their cranioproximal tibiae suggested that the underlying lesion was that of osteochondrosis. A heredltary predisposition In greyhounds to osteochondrosis of the physis between the apophysis and the cranioproximal tibia1 dlaphysis Is postulated.
Arteriovenous fistula involving the prepuce of a dog
Authors: Trower N. D. , White R. N. , Lamb C. R.
Published: April 2008

A nine‐year‐old male lbizan hound had a network of large tortuous pulsating blood vessels on the prepuce that enlarged gradually over a five month period. A diagnosis of arteriovenous fistula was based on clinical signs, angiography and Doppler ultrasonography. Ligation of the major vascular supply to the fistula resulted in only temporary improvement. Definitive treatment was by wide excision, with penile amputation and scrota1 urethrostomy.
Horner's syndrome following intrathoracic tube placement
Authors: Boydell P. , Pike R. , Crossley D. , TORRINGTON A.
Published: April 2008

Two dogs developed unilateral Horner's syndrome attributable to the placement of a thoracic drainage tube. Signs resolved following removal of the chest drains.
Dose‐sparing effects of romifidine premedication for thiopentone and halothane anaesthesia in the dog
Authors: ENGLAND G. C. W. , HAMMOND* R.
Published: April 2008

Two intravenous doses of romifldine (40 and 80 μg/kg) and a placebo were compared as premedicants for anaesthesia induced with thiopentone and maintained using halothane in oxygen. Romifldine significantly and linearly reduced the induction dose of thiopentone; placebo‐treated dogs required 15.1 ± 3.6 mg/kg, while dogs treated with 40 μg/kg and 80 μg/kg romifldine required 6.5 ± 1.6 and 3.9 ± 0.3 mg/kg thiopentone, respectively.

Romlfldine also significantly and linearly reduced the end tidal halothane concentration necessary to maintain a predetermined level of anaesthesia; piacebetreated dogs required 1.6 ± 0.3 per cent halothane, while dogs treated with 40 μg/kg and 80 μg/kg romifldine required 1.3 ± 0.4 and 0–8 ± 0.2 per cent, respectively.

Romifldine produced a significant shortening In the recovery from anaesthesia, and the higher dose of romlfldine significantly improved the overall quality of anaesthesia.
Effect of two dietary regimens on gingivitis in the dog
Authors: RAWLINGS J. M. , GORREL* C. , Markwell P. J.
Published: April 2008

The effect of two commercially available dietary regimens on the development of gingivitis and the accumulation of dental plaque, calculus and stain in the dog were studied. One regimen consisted of feeding an oral hygiene chew and a standard dry diet.

The other was based on a specifically designed oral care dry main meal. The study was conducted using 15 dogs in a two period, parallel cross‐over design. Each period consisted of a one week pretest phase followed by a three week test phase. During the test phase, gingivitis and plaque were measured after one week and gingivitis, calculus, stain and plaque were measured after a further two weeks. Comparison of the two regimens showed that there were equal amounts of gingivitis, plaque and calculus by the end of the study. There was significantly more stain and significant loss in bodyweight when the main meal was fed.

The role of dietary modification in the maintenance of periodontal health is discussed.
Naturally occurring xanthine urolithiasis in a domestic shorthair cat
Authors: WHITE R. N. , TICK* N. T. , WHITE* H. L.
Published: April 2008

A five year‐old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented after three episodes of urethral obstruction and anuria requiring relief urethral catheterisation. A double contrast cystogram revealed the presence of multiple small cystollths which were radlolucent on plain radiographs. A perlneal urethrostomy and a cystotomy were performed to relieve the urethral obstruction and to remove the cystoliths. Quantitative analysis revealed the cystoliths to be composed of 100 per cent xanthine. Clinical history suggested the xanthinuria to be naturally occurring. Unfortunately, the cat was killed in a road traffic accident two months after the surgical procedure, preventing further long‐term assessment.
Bilateral xanthine nephrolithiasis in a dog
Authors: KUCERA J. , BULKOVÁ T. , RYCHLÁ R. , JAHN P.
Published: April 2008

Xanthinuria is an uncommon metabolic disorder clinically manifested as uroiithiasis. There are two forms of the disease, Congenital and iatrogenic. The former was diagnosed in a four‐year‐old dachshund bitch. The patient was presented with signs of terminal chronic renal failure. Urine was bacteriologically sterile with massive amorphous crystaliuria. Bilateral nephroiithiasis was diagnosed at necropsy. The kidneys were shrunken with marked atrophy of the renal cortex and medulla. infrared spectrometry revealed that the stones comprised 100 per cent xanthine. Later, two of the patient's siblings were examined for urine xanthine content; both showed higher concentrations of xanthine than a control dog. The described case is compared with seven known published cases of Congenital xanthinuria.
Low serum immunoglobulin concentrations in related Weimaraner dogs
Authors: DAY M. J. , POWER* C. , OLESHKO* J. , RosE M.
Published: April 2008

Surgical management of a large colorectal diverticulum in a dog A 10‐year‐old crossbred dog had a lour month history of intermittent rectal prolapse. Castration and use of stool softeners had been attempted to control tenesmus and obstipation. Examination per rectum was normal. Three months later colopexy was performed and the dog began defecating normally immediately after surgery. After one month, obstipation and tenesmus returned. Initially, faeces were misshapen and ribbon‐like, then defecation stopped. Palpation per rectum revealed a band‐like ventral mucosal fold approximately 6 cm Irom the anus. A contrast study demonstrated a large (4X2 cm), well‐defined diverticulum in the colorectum. Diverticulectomy was performed using a surgical stapling device, which allowed rapid excision and substantially reduced risk of faecal contamination. Recovery was good and the dog remained clinically normal, although a slight narrowing of the colorectum was seen radiographically.
Reference ranges for gastrointestinal transit of barium‐impregnated polyethylene spheres in healthy cats
Authors: SPARKES A. H. , PAPASOULIOTIS K. , BARR F. J. , GRUFFYDD‐JONES T. J.
Published: April 2008

Commercial barium‐Impregnated polyethylene spheres (BIPS) were administered to 12 healthy adult cats according to the manufacturer's Instructions (30 small BIPS and 10 large BIPS to each cat) together with 60 g of a canned food. Radiographs were taken at hourly Intervals until seven hours after feeding, and then at eight, 10,12,14,17,23 and 30 hours or until all the BIPS had left the stomach and at least 50 per cent had entered the colon. SIX cats were sedated Immediately after being fed the BIPS and six cats remained unsedated. For small BIPS (1–5 mm diameter), the gastric transit the (first exit of BIPS from the stomach) In the sedated cats had a median of 6 hours (range 3 to 8) and In the unsedated cats a median of 2–5 hours (range 2 to 6). Values for other transit times were not significantly different between the two groups, and the pooled data revealed a median 50 per cent gastric emptying time of 6‐4 hours (range 2–5 to long), a complete gastric emptying time of 12 hours (range 6 to 27), an orocaecal transit time (first appearance of BIPS In the colon) of 6‐5 hours (range 4‐0 to 12‐0) and a 50 per cent orocaecal transit time of 8‐8 hours (range 4–6 to 12.8). The gastrolntestinal transit of large BIPS (5 mm diameter) was significantly correlated with the passage of small BIPS but, except for the complete gastric emptying the, was significantly slower.
Cranioplasty after en bloc resection of calvarial chondroma rodens in two dogs
Authors: Moissonnier P. , Devauchelle P. , DELISLE F.
Published: April 2008

The clinical features of chondroma rodens in two dogs and the treatment using radiation therapy, en bloc resection of the tumours and cranioplastles with a bone allograft (case 1) and a polymethylmethacrylate implant (case 2) are described. The dogs were still alive with no local recurrence of the tumours 30 and 18 months, respectively, after surgery. En bloc resection and calvarial reconstruction In the treatment of chondroma rodens are discussed.
Tetraparesis due to vertebral physeal fracture in an adult dog with congenital hypothyroidism
Authors: LIEB A. S. , GROOTERS A. M. , TYLER J. W. , PARTINGTON B. P. , PECHMAN R. D.
Published: April 2008

A four‐year‐old male affenpinscher was referred for evaluation of hindlimb weakness that had progressed to tetraparesis over a period of four weeks. Neurological examination was suggestive of a cervical spinal cord lesion. Radiographic examination revealed diffuse skeletal immaturity with open physes and epiphyseal dysplasla in long bones and vertebrae, consistent with a diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism. Total and free serum T4 concentrations were very low, indicative of hypothyroidism. Survey radiographs of the cervical spine revealed a dorsally displaced Salter‐Harris type I fracture of the cranial portion of the fourth cervical vertebra with the endplate present in the vertebral canal. Although signs of transverse myelopathy are uncommon In dogs with congenital hypothyroidism, they may be associated with either intervertebral disc protrusion or endplate displacement into the vertebral canal secondary to the epiphyseal abnormalities associated with congenital hypothyroidism.
Evaluation of brush cytology in the diagnosis of chronic intranasal disease in cats
Authors: Caniatti M. , Roccabianca P. , Ghisleni G. , Mortellaro C. M. , Romussi S. , Mandelli G.
Published: April 2008

Brush cytology was used as a diagnostic aid in 85 cats affected with chronic intranasal disease. Fifty‐three of these cases, sampled over a five‐year period, were included in this study, while the other cases were excluded due to poor cellularity of the cytological samples (nine cases) or a lack of histological or follow‐up data (23 cases). Thirty‐six brush samples were classified by cytology as inflammatory. Subsequent histological examination revealed a false negative diagnosis of neoplasia in six cats, two of which had malignant tumours (one adenocarcinoma and one lymphoma), the remaining four having benign tumours (two adenomas and two osteochondromas). Seventeen samples were classified by brush cytology as neoplastic. This was confirmed in 16 of these cases by histology or follow‐up (nine epithelial malignant tumours, six lymphomas and one osteosarcoma). In the remaining case, a false positive diagnosis of lymphoma was made. The procedure had an overall 86.8 per cent (46/53) agreement between the diagnosis of inflammatory conditions versus neoplasia, with a sensitivity of 72.7 per cent, a specificity of 96.8 per cent, a predictive value of a positive test of 94.1 per cent and a predictive value of a negative test of 83.3 per cent.
Feline chronic renal failure: clinical findings in 80 cases diagnosed between 1992 and 1995
Authors: Elliott J. , Barber P. J.
Published: April 2008

Clinical and laboratory findings at the time of first diagnosis in 80 cats with chronic renal failure (CRF) were examined in a prospective study to determine the survival time of these animals and identify possible factors contributing to the progression of feline CRF. On the basis of clinical presentation, animals were assigned to one of three groups; compensated (n=15), uraemic (n=39) and end‐stage (n=26) CRF. Loss of renal concentrating ability was a common finding, even before clinical signs of renal disease were evident. The plasma creatinine concentration at initial presentation was a poor predictor of survival time and the presence of significant anaemia was indicative of a poor prognosis. The study demonstrated the highly variable degree of renal impairment present at the time of diagnosis and the potentially long survival time of many compensated and uraemic cases.
Ectopic Psoroptes cuniculi infestation in a pet rabbit
Authors: Cutler S. L.
Published: April 2008

A case of Psoroptes cuniculi infestation of the ears and body of a pet rabbit, with severe lesions on the skin of the caudoventral abdomen, is reported. Treatment with ivermectin injection followed by fipronil application appeared to be safe and was successful in eliminating infection.
Tail tip necrosis in two litters of Birman kittens
Authors: Bridle K. H. , Littlewood J. D.
Published: April 2008

The development of tail tip necrosis in two litters of Birman kittens from the same queen is described. On the basis of blood group testing of the queen and one of the stud cats, a presumptive diagnosis of neonatal isoerythrolysis involving cold‐acting agglutinins was made. It is suggested that on presentation of tail tip necrosis in kittens a diagnosis of neonatal isoerythrolysis or isoagglutination should be considered.
Comparison of haematological analyses of blood taken from the cephalic and marginal ear veins in cats
Authors: Jacobsen J. O. G. , Jensen A. L.
Published: April 2008

Various haematological components were compared in blood samples from the cephalic and marginal ear vein of 21 cats. Test results tended to be higher in blood samples from the cephalic vein, although significant differences were only detected for haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell count and the absolute numbers of neutrophilic granulocytes and lymphocytes. Differences in test results between the two veins were small and apparently of only minor practical importance, thereby further substantiating the suitability of the marginal ear vein nick technique as a means of obtaining small blood samples from cats.
Inside story: Scientific Committee
Authors: Elliott Jonathan
Published: April 2008

Val Clare, a veterinary surgeon from South Wales, completes the 26 mile, 385 yard distance at the 1997 London Marathon in an impressive time. This year, for the third year in succession, Val will be running in aid of Petsavers. The marathon will take place on Sunday, April 26. If you or any of your clients have a place to run in the 1998 London Marathon, then Petsavers would be delighted If you would join Its team. Would‐be sponsors and runners for the Petsavers team should contact Val Clare, Lock Cottage, 24 Five Locks Road, Pontnewydd, Cwmbran NP44 1BT, telephone 01633 869768, for information and sponsorship forms
Use of ticarcillin in the management of canine otitis externa complicated by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Nuttall T. J.
Published: April 2008

Twelve dogs were referred with purulent and proliferative otitis externa. Prior treatment included fluoroquinolones, glucocorticoids and polyvalent ear drops over seven days to five months. In all cases the vertical and horizontal ear canals were inflamed and thickened, with ruptured tympanic membranes in four cases. No abnormalities were seen on radiography of the osseous bullae. Numerous rod bacilli and degenerate neutrophils were seen on cytology. Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistant to fluoroquinolones and gentamicin was cultured in all cases. Treatment was initiated with 1 to 2 mg/kg prednisolone per os once daily, and a cleansing and drying ear cleaner followed by topical administration of injectable ticarcillin solution four times daily. Cases with ruptured tympanae also received 15 to 25 mg/kg ticarcillin three times daily intravenously until the membranes had healed. All cases were anaesthetised for repeated saline ear flushes until no further discharge was evident and no rods were seen on cytology. Topical ticarcillin and the ear cleaner were continued twice daily for 14 days after clinical resolution. The duration of treatment ranged from 14 to 36 days. Treatment was withdrawn in one case which developed a drug reaction. All other cases responded well with no adverse effects.
Risk factors for gastric dilatation in Irish setter dogs
Authors: Elwood C. M.
Published: April 2008

Questionnaires were used to obtain data about Irish setters with gastric dilatation (GD) and control Irish setters. The risk of GD increased with age (P<0·01) but was not associated with gender. Age and gender‐matched controls were compared with cases (n=74). Predisposing risks were aerophagia (unadjusted odds ratio 12·44, P<0·001), a single food type (adjusted odds ratio 3·15, P<0·01) and feeding once daily (adjusted odds ratio 2·90, P<0·02). Apparent risk from a dry food diet and a condition score of less than 2 was not confirmed by logistic regression. Precipitating risks were recent kennelling (unadjusted odds ratio 100, P<0·005) or a car journey (unadjusted odds ratio 3·29, P<0·025). No risk was attributed to intensity or duration of exercise, temperament, appetite, speed of eating, vomiting or diarrhoea.
Placement of a low‐profile duodenostomy and jejunostomy device in five dogs
Authors: Swann H. M. , Sweet D. C. , Holt D. E. , Michel K.
Published: April 2008

Five male crossbred dogs successfully underwent surgical placement of button enterostomy tubes to evaluate the placement technique, maintenance and complications of these tubes. Surgical placement was quick, technically straightforward and similar to techniques used for other feeding tubes. None of the dogs experienced life‐threatening complications during the 10 month follow‐up period. One device required replacement as it was removed by the dog before a permanent fistula had formed. Open tubes due to loose safety plugs and focal cellulitis surrounding the exit sites of these tubes were noted in all dogs. The button tube may be a feasible option for long‐term nutritional support in patients with pancreatic, hepatobiliary or gastrointestinal conditions.
Treatment of patent ductus arteriosus by placement of two intravascular embolisation coils in a puppy
Authors: Fellows C. G. , Lerche P. , King G. , Tometzki A.
Published: April 2008

A 14‐week‐old border collie with a history of exercise intolerance was confirmed to have a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) from colour flow Doppler echocardiography. Under general anaesthesia, angiography was performed to gauge accurately the width of the ductus, and then two intravascular embolisation coils were introduced into the ductus via percutaneous catheterisation of the femoral vein. The coils were both 8 mm in diameter, each with four loops. This led to an immediate disappearance of the murmur. Some slight residual flow was detected at the time of the procedure by angiography, but by 10 days postoperatively there was no PDA flow detectable. The time taken to complete the procedure was 55 minutes, with a total fluoroscopy time of 15 minutes. Placement of intravascular embolisation coils represents a viable alternative to traditional surgical methods of ductus closure.
Complications with non‐endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy in 31 cats and 10 does: a retrospective study
Authors: Glaus T. M. , Cornelius L. M. , Bartges J. W. , Reusch C.
Published: April 2008

Percutaneous gastrostomy tubes were placed non‐endoscopically in 31 cats and 10 dogs using either a rigid insertion tube (n=13) oranEld gastrostomy tube applicator (n=28). Tubes were placed successfully in 38 of the 41 animals and the consequent feeding was of therapeutic benefit to 31 of the animals. Six of 41 died or were euthanased for reasons unrelated to gastrostomy. In four cases (10 per cent), gastrostomy failed with respect to correct tube placement or tube feeding. Overall complications occurred in 18 of 41 animals. Severe procedural complications occurred in two cats; a cardiorespiratory arrest during pharyngeal manipulation and erroneous tube placement through the distal oesophagus. Moderate late complications included peristomal food leakage (n=2), peristomal abscess (n=2) and pyloric outflow obstruction by a migrated tube (n=1). Complications associated with the feeding procedure, nausea and vomiting (n=3), led to aspiration pneumonia in one case.
Treatment of Trombicula autumnalis infestation in dogs and cats with a 0·25 per cent fipronil pump spray
Authors: Nuttall T. J. , French A. T. , Cheetham H. C. , Proctor F. J.
Published: April 2008

To evaluate the efficacy of fipronil in controlling tromblculid infestations, 18 dogs and three cats Infested with Trombicula autumnalis larvae were treated monthly from examination to the end of the Trombicula season (range one to four months) with a 0–25 per cent fipronil spray applied to the whole body, with particular emphasis on the feet, face, ears, perineum and tail. No other antlparasite measures were used. Follow‐up was by clinical examination and telephone interview until the end of the Trombicula season (range one to four months). No adverse effects were seen. Monthly treatment controlled trombicuiids in 15 dogs. In two dogs localised pedal reinfestations were controlled with additional local application of fipronil to the feet every 14 days. In one dog therapy was of no benefit. In the three cats, treatment was Initially effective, but generalised Infestations recurred after seven to 10 days. Fipronil is a safe and effective treatment for tromblculid infestations in dogs. Residual activity lasts for 14 to 30 days. Further studies are required to examine the apparent short duration of efficacy in cats.