bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feline lymphoma 2. Specific disease presentations
Authors: Hayes Alison
Published: October 2010

THIS article, the second of two on feline lymphoma, discusses how the disease can present to the veterinarian. Lymphoma is a differential diagnosis for a variety of clinical presentations in cats and can occur in, or spread to, any anatomical site that contains lymphoid tissue. A regionally localised disease must be assumed to have a systemic component unless proved otherwise. Thus, ascribing a disease to a particular anatomical form (ie, mediastinal, alimentary or multicentric) can be difficult and may have led to inaccuracies in reporting of the disease in the literature. In addition to these commonly recognised forms, cutaneous, ocular, central nervous system, tracheal, renal, nasal and pulmonary forms are also recognised. These various anatomical presentations of feline lymphoma may come to be regarded as specific disease entities in their own right as more is learnt about the pathogenesis and biology of feline lymphoid neoplasias, but are currently best considered as manifestations of a disease continuum. Rather than struggling to ascribe an individual case to a particular anatomical form, the clinician should be aware that the main aim of staging is simply to document all areas of involvement. Initial clinical investigations will pertain to the organ system recognised in the presentation of disease, but full staging is always required and should include diagnostic investigation of the whole patient wherever possible. This was discussed further in Part 1, published in the last issue, which reviewed the principles of diagnosis and management in feline lymphoma cases (In Practice, October 2006, volume 28, pp 516–524).
Everyday ethics
Authors: Yeates James
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers who wish to contribute to the discussion of this month's dilemma ‐ ‘Owner's dying wish’ ‐ are invited to do so and should send their comments as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Responses to the ‘Difficult dog’ dilemma, which was published last month, appear on page 624. This series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped that it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. This month's dilemma is presented and discussed by James Yeates.
Working the night shift
Authors: Leathers Joanne
Published: October 2010

BY 2002, Joanne Leathers had been qualified for several years, and was working in a busy mixed practice. But disillusionment was creeping in: a gruelling work schedule seemed to leave no time for a social life or outside pursuits. She decided a change was needed. Here, she describes her new life working in an out‐of‐hours emergency clinic.
Decontamination of surgical instruments: new times, new thinking
Authors: Casstles Helen , Roper Duncan
Published: October 2010

A NATIONAL review of the processes used to decontaminate surgical instruments used in the NHS was conducted by the Department of Health in 2001. Helen Casstles and Duncan Roper describe the principles of decontamination now used in the human medical field and suggest how some of these might be applied to veterinary practice. The need for effective procedures, with robust monitoring and validation, is key, and will help any surgical facility ensure that it achieves high standards – and has the evidence to prove them.
Developing health plans for the dairy herd
Authors: Sibley Richard
Published: October 2010

PLANNING for health is becoming an important element of modern dairy farming. As dairy farmers strive for further efficiency in production, driven by market economics, the risks and consequences of poor health and suboptimal production become greater. UK dairy farmers have increased efficiency by 10 per cent over the past 10 years, mainly by increasing yields and herd size, and through better business planning. There has never been a more opportune time to develop health plans on dairy farms. The key, as this article emphasises, is that they need to be practical and effective.
Current concepts in feline haemobartonellosis
Authors: Tasker Séverine
Published: October 2010

HAEMOBARTONELLA felis is an important cause of haemolytic anaemia in cats. Over the past five years significant advances in the understanding of this organism have been made, which have led to the reclassification of the organism and new methods of diagnosing infection based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. This article describes these advances and discusses what the implications are when a cat is diagnosed with this infection.
Getting results in clinical pathology 2. Pros and cons of in‐clinic haematological testing
Authors: Pinches Mark
Published: October 2010

HAEMATOLOGICAL testing is used both for routine health monitoring and as an aid to diagnosis. An erythrogram provides information about the oxygen‐carrying capacity of the blood, the health of the bone marrow and many other disease processes. A leukogram, meanwhile, provides information about immune system function, the presence of inflammation and infection, and can even raise the suspicion of endocrinopathy or neoplasia. Haematology analysers have replaced manual methods of evaluation in many veterinary clinics, but it should be remembered that, in some instances, the results produced may not provide all the answers to a diagnostic problem. This article reviews a number of haematology analysers commonly used in practice and discusses their limitations to help clinicians critically assess the output from such systems.
Getting results in clinical pathology 4. Influence of medications on biochemical parameters
Authors: Pinches Mark
Published: October 2010

MEDICATIONS are used for their beneficial actions but, in some patients, can cause adverse effects, some of which are more serious than others. One type of adverse reaction that is often overlooked is the interaction between drugs and diagnostic tests. This article reviews the most common drug‐induced alterations in biochemical parameters. An article in the next issue will examine the effect of medications on haematological parameters.
Differential diagnosis of sudden high mortality in poultry and game birds
Authors: McMullin Paul
Published: October 2010

MAJOR outbreaks of avian influenza have occurred in a number of countries over the past few years. The Asian H5N1 strain, much in the news, emerged in geese in the Guangdong province of China in 1996, and was first associated with human infection in Hong Kong in 1997. In 2005/06, it spread westwards to Eurasia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It has been associated with mortality in wild birds, village chickens and, in some countries, commercial poultry, and presents a significant threat to poultry and game bird producers. Sudden increased mortality in poultry and game birds is a likely presenting complaint in cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza. This article reviews the differential diagnosis of sudden high mortality in these species.
Humeral condylar fractures and incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle in dogs
Authors: Moores Andy
Published: October 2010

HUMERAL condylar fractures are among the most common fractures seen in dogs and account for approximately 20 per cent of the author's canine fracture caseload, although this is a referral population and probably does not represent the true incidence of these injuries. It has long been recognised that spaniels are predisposed to humeral condylar fractures. It is now recognised that many of these dogs have a condition known as incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) that predisposes them to condylar fractures, often occurring during normal activity or associated with only minor trauma. This article discusses the management of humeral condylar fractures and IOHC.
Introduction to the alpaca and its veterinary care in the UK
Authors: D'Alterio Gian Lorenzo
Published: October 2010

SOUTH American camelids, particularly alpacas (Lama pacos), are becoming increasingly popular exotic livestock species in the UK. As with most exotic animals, veterinary intervention relies heavily on knowledge gained with more conventional and familiar species. However, species differences must be taken into consideration, and it is crucial that exotic patients are placed within the appropriate biological context. This article discusses the husbandry procedures commonly adopted for alpacas in the UK and describes how routine veterinary techniques are conducted in this species. It also outlines an approach to disease prevention.
Differential diagnosis and treatment of acute diarrhoea in the dog and cat
Authors: Battersby Ian , Harvey Andrea
Published: October 2010

ACUTE and chronic diarrhoea are both very common complaints in first‐opinion small animal practice. Diarrhoea is defined as an increase in the frequency, fluidity or volume of faeces. It is a primary sign of intestinal disease, although it may also be a manifestation of other systemic diseases. Diarrhoea can occur as a consequence of small or large intestinal disease, but it is not uncommon for both to be present. Information gained from the clinical history can aid differentiation between diarrhoea of large and small intestinal origin. This article focuses on the acute presentation, although the differential diagnoses do overlap with chronic diarrhoea. It reviews the causes and sets out an approach to the investigation and management of patients. As well as discussing what treatments may or may not be appropriate, it gives some guidance on what to do if an infectious aetiology, such as parvovirus, is suspected.
Presentation and management of thromboembolism in cats
Authors: Moise N. Sydney
Published: October 2010

THIS article reviews the presentation and short‐ and long‐term therapeutic management of thromboembolism in the cat. Although the focus is on treatment, a number of key facts need to be considered, and these are highlighted in the box below. Despite the associated challenges of thromboembolism (eg, likelihood of severe heart disease, difficulties in treating the acute consequences, expense of treatment, and unknown factors regarding the correct long‐term treatment for both the cardiac and thromboembolic disease), enough cats survive for an ‘adequate’ amount of time that the rendered care is deemed worthy by many owners even when they understand the problems. It is important to remember that the therapies used to date are not proven in science or in practice. Ultimately, if a cat has a thromboembolic event from which it has a chance of surviving, its recovery will often be determined by the nature of the supportive therapy it receives.
Contaminant, coloniser or invader? 1. Understanding host‐bacteria interactions
Authors: Normand Elizabeth
Published: October 2010

IN veterinary practice, bacteria are a concern because they may cause or complicate disease in a host animal or group of animals. It can be frustrating when samples for bacterial culture fail to yield useful results. Even when isolates are recovered, their clinical significance can be uncertain. This article reviews host‐bacteria interactions, a knowledge of which is fundamental to clinical bacteriology, from sampling to interpretation of laboratory results. It sets the scene for a companion article, published on pages 28 to 33 of this issue, which provides an overview of clinical bacteriology, concentrating on how to maximise diagnostic yield from clinical samples.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Roger Paul
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers who wish to contribute to the discussion of this month's dilemma, entitled ‘Neuter or just treat?’, are invited to do so and should send their comments as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Responses to the ‘Owner's dying wish’ dilemma, which was published in the last issue, appear on page 56. This series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped that it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. This month's dilemma was submitted by a reader and is discussed by Paul Roger.
Treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: balancing the three factors
Authors: Hill Peter
Published: October 2010

THE management of canine atopic dermatitis poses an almost unique challenge to veterinary surgeons in general practice. Although many conditions require lifelong treatment – diabetes mellitus, arthritis, heart disease and chronic renal failure, to name a few – it is rare for there to be so many treatment options and regimens available for one disease. This bewildering array of treatment combinations for atopic dermatitis makes therapeutic decision making extremely difficult. This article presents some guidelines on individualising treatment regimens for this chronic condition, using a strategy the author refers to as ‘balancing the three factors’ – efficacy, risk of side effects and cost.
Advances in the management of diaphyseal fractures
Authors: Gemmill Toby
Published: October 2010

FRACTURES are frequently encountered in small animal practice and comprise 13 per cent of orthopaedic cases in dogs and nearly 40 per cent in cats (Ness and others 1996); diaphyseal fractures currently account for approximately 60 per cent of the author's trauma caseload. Treated appropriately, the prognosis for the healing of these fractures and a return to favourable limb function is good. However, fracture surgery is unforgiving of technical errors and inadequate planning, and failures are occasionally seen that can result in expensive and traumatic revision surgery or, at worst, limb amputation or euthanasia. It is therefore essential when managing fracture patients that the surgeon has a good understanding of the principles of treatment, as well as the knowledge and technical skills to apply a full range of surgical techniques. This article describes the planning required and the techniques available for the treatment of diaphyseal fractures.
Financing the life plan
Authors: James Daniel
Published: October 2010

IN the fourth instalment in Daniel James's series, our fictional veterinarian, Nicola, has set her sights on starting up her own practice with a contemporary from vet school. Here, we see her working with her financial adviser to form a strategy that will act as a safety net against events that may be out of her control, while maximising the benefits of good opportunities.
On a mission: caring for working equids abroad
Authors: Kay Gigi
Published: October 2010

AFTER an unpromising start, Gigi Kay has carved a career for herself working for organisations providing veterinary care for the working equids in some of the poorest communities overseas. Here she describes some of her experiences, as well as the challenges facing the communities, their animals and, in turn, the organisations striving to help them.
Zoonotic skin disease in small animals
Authors: Chitty John , Hendricks Anke
Published: October 2010

DOGS, cats and small mammals are extremely popular companions ‐ they usually share their owners’ home environment and physical contact with these pets is often very close. While zoonoses represent an important type of pet‐associated health hazard, a large proportion of the pet‐owning public is unaware of the potential for transmission of disease between animals and humans. In view of the increasing population of immunocompromised people and animals, medical and veterinary health professionals need to be well informed about zoonoses. This article discusses relevant aspects of skin diseases in dogs, cats and selected small mammals in the UK that could present a zoonotic risk to their owners.
Diagnosis and management of primary hyperaldosteronism in cats
Authors: Shiel Robert , Mooney Carmel
Published: October 2010

PRIMARY hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome) is characterised by excessive autonomous secretion of aldosterone from one or both adrenal glands, resulting in clinical signs relating to hypertension and/or hypokalaemia. This disease was once considered uncommon in cats. However, several case reports and case series have recently been published, suggesting an increase in the frequency of diagnosis. This probably reflects heightened awareness of the disease together with more widespread availability of blood pressure measurement and ultrasound facilities. This article draws on experience to date to review the diagnosis and management of primary hyperaldosteronism. The disease should be considered an important differential diagnosis for both hypokalaemia and hypertension in cats.
Skin diseases of South American camelids
Authors: Foster Aiden , Jackson Anna , D'Alterio Gian Lorenzo
Published: October 2010

CAMELIDS, and alpacas in particular, are growing in popularity in the UK. These animals often present with skin disease and provide a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for the veterinary clinician. While much has been made about the role of nutritional problems related to zinc, dermatological problems in these species are frequently associated with chronic infestation with Chorioptes mites. The use of macrocyclic lactones and other products may readily treat infestations with other ectoparasites, such as Psoroptes and Sarcoptes mites, but these agents may have to be administered repeatedly to reduce the population of Chorioptes mites. This article describes the most common ectoparasitic conditions seen in South American camelids in the UK as well as some less common problems associated with nutrition, infections, neoplasia and immune‐mediated disease, and discusses an approach to the diagnosis and management of skin disease in these species.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Leeb Christine
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘A troubled vet abroad’, is presented and discussed by Christine Leeb. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. On page 305, she comments on the ‘Conflicting co‐owners’ dilemma, which was published last month.
Total intravenous techniques for anaesthesia
Authors: Beths Thierry
Published: October 2010

THE two most commonly used techniques for total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) are multiple bolus injection and continuous infusion. This article describes how these techniques may be implemented and outlines some protocols for use in a range of veterinary species. It also discusses computerised infusion systems, such as the target‐controlled infusion (TCI) techniques, which have been used to good effect in human medicine and are now gaining more widespread use in the veterinary arena.
A question of technique: safe manual handling in practice
Authors: Mitchell Alastair
Published: October 2010

QUITE apart from their impact on the individuals concerned, injuries caused by manual handling can have a big impact on a business, and veterinary practices are no exception. Here, Alastair Mitchell explains how good manual handling techniques can help to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal and other work‐related injuries occurring in the practice.
Lameness and weakness in dogs: is it orthopaedic or neurological?
Authors: McKee Malcolm
Published: October 2010

DIAGNOSING the cause of lameness or weakness in dogs is not always straightforward. Although orthopaedic conditions are the most common cause of thoracic and pelvic limb lameness and neurological disorders the most common cause of weakness, occasionally neurological cases may be presented due to lameness and orthopaedic cases due to weakness. Diagnosing orthopaedic and neurological disorders as causes of weakness and lameness, respectively, can be challenging. A detailed history and thorough clinical examination, with emphasis on the orthopaedic and neurological components, is essential. This article describes the orthopaedic and neurological causes of lameness, and weakness and incoordination, and highlights the specific investigations that can be carried out to differentiate between the two.
Diagnosis of canine hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Ramsey Ian , Ristic Jelena
Published: October 2010

HYPERADRENOCORTICISM, or Cushing's syndrome, is one of the most common canine endocrinopathies seen in small animal practice. Although in many cases the clinical signs are fairly characteristic, the chronic course of the disease and some unusual clinical manifestations can make it hard to recognise. In addition, the diagnostic tests that are available can be difficult to interpret. This article summarises the current knowledge of the presentation and diagnosis of this disease. An article in the next issue will focus on the treatment options.
Bovine abortion: aetiology and investigations
Authors: Cabell Emma
Published: October 2010

ABORTION in cattle is a significant cause of reproductive wastage and is of economic importance as a single abortion event in a dairy herd is estimated to cost £me abortions are due to infectious diseases, several of which are zoonotic. Sporadic abortions occur in any herd, but once the incidence exceeds 3 per cent, or several abortions occur in close succession, further investigations must be carried out to try to determine the cause so that control measures can be instigated. This article reviews the common causes of abortion in cattle and outlines an approach to the investigation of an abortion outbreak, describing the tests available for diagnosis.
The science of happiness: achieving sustained psychological wellbeing
Authors: Bartram David , Boniwell Ilona
Published: October 2010

WHILE a vast body of research has been dedicated to understanding problems and disorders of mental health, until the recent emergence of a new field of science, little was known about the positive aspects of life – the things that make life worth living. Positive psychology endeavours to understand how individuals and societies thrive and flourish, and how this new knowledge can be applied to foster happiness, health and fulfilment. Here, David Bartram and Ilona Boniwell discuss strategies for enhancing individual wellbeing, which it is hoped will temper some of the challenges and pressures facing veterinary professionals in their daily lives.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Forrest Niky
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Veterinary nurse uneasy with vets' approach’, is presented and discussed by Niky Forrest. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. On page 490, she comments on the dilemma, ‘Maliciously injured kitten’, which was published in the last issue.
Getting the best results from ultrasonography
Authors: Barr Frances
Published: October 2010

DIAGNOSTIC ultrasonography has been used in veterinary medicine for over 30 years. In the late 1970s, it was performed largely as a means of pregnancy diagnosis in the mare, ewe and sow. However, since then, technological advances have allowed the production of high resolution ultrasound images and accurate representation of movement, making it a useful tool for a range of veterinary applications. With equipment costs having also decreased, this imaging modality is now more readily available in practice. The key for the clinician is to produce images of the highest quality in order to maximise the diagnostic information obtained. This article describes the types of equipment available and provides practical guidance on how to optimise settings to obtain good quality, diagnostically useful images.
Financing the life plan
Authors: James Daniel
Published: October 2010

IN the third instalment in Daniel James's series, we catch up with Nicola, our fictional veterinarian, who is facing some of the most dramatic changes she is likely to experience – both personally and financially.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Gardiner Andrew
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Has small animal practice gone too far?’ is presented and discussed by Andrew Gardiner. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Veterinary nurse uneasy with vets' approach’, which was published in the last issue, appears on page 554.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Conditions of the temporomandibular joint in dogs and cats
Authors: Gemmill Toby
Published: October 2010

ALTHOUGH clinical conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints are encountered infrequently, it is not uncommon for veterinary surgeons to be presented with animals suffering from prehension or mastication difficulties, for which temporomandibular joint disorders represent important differential diagnoses. Unfortunately, the anatomy of canine and feline temporomandibular joints is complex, which can lead to diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This article aims to assist the practitioner in recognising, assessing and managing these often challenging cases.
Health and safety considerations for pregnant farm animal vets
Authors: Lovatt Fiona , Mitchell Alastair
Published: October 2010

FARM animal work will inevitably expose vets to a variety of different hazards and risks. It is the legal duty of all employers to assess the risks to the health and safety of their employees arising from these hazards and to do what is reasonably practicable to control the risks. With more female veterinary staff than ever before, employers are increasingly being faced with situations in which pregnancy has an impact on the running of their business. Fiona Lovatt and Alastair Mitchell highlight some of the issues that employers may need to consider when preparing a risk assessment relevant to the work of a pregnant farm animal vet.
The RCVS Practice Standards Scheme: perspectives from practice
Authors: McNeill Ewan
Published: October 2010

LAUNCHED to the profession in 2005 and then to the public in 2006, the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme is a nationwide, voluntary initiative set up with the aim of establishing ‘a quality assurance framework to promote and maintain the highest standard of veterinary care’. Ewan McNeill, who has recently achieved tier 2 accreditation for his small animal practice, shares some of his experiences of the process and offers a personal opinion on the scheme. On pages 577 and 578, Rob Drysdale and Deidre Carson give perspectives from farm animal and equine practice, respectively.
Anaesthesia and analgesia in rabbits and rodents
Authors: Longley Lesa
Published: October 2010

ANAESTHESIA and analgesia is extremely useful in small mammals, enabling many diagnostic techniques and surgical procedures to be performed. However, it is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality in these species, and there is much inter‐ and intraspecies variation in response to anaesthetic agents. Preanaesthetic assessment of a patient's clinical condition and supportive care perianaesthetically are paramount to ensure a successful outcome. This article discusses the risks associated with small mammal anaesthesia and how they may be minimised, and describes a number of anaesthetic protocols for the commonly presented species. Most drugs used in rabbits and other small mammals are not licensed for use in these animals.
Recognition and management of pain in cattle
Authors: Hudson Chris , Whay Helen , Huxley Jon
Published: October 2010

ATTITUDES towards pain and its control in farm animals have lagged behind those in companion animal species. However, a considerable amount of work over the past 15 years has focused on the perception of pain in cattle based on objective and subjective assessment by clinicians working with this species. A recent large‐scale survey of cattle practitioners revealed that over half of the respondents felt their knowledge of pain and analgesia in cattle was inadequate or could be improved, and the majority of these identified a lack of readily available information on the subject as being a contributory factor. This article reviews current knowledge on pain assessment in cattle in a clinical setting, and discusses some protocols for pain management in specific conditions.
Pet pig medicine
Authors: Carr John , Wilbers Arlen
Published: October 2010

PET pigs are related to the Vietnamese potbellied pig, but many are also crossbred with commercial breeds such as the Large White, which can result in interesting body colour combinations. Some owners keep rare breeds, which helps to preserve genetic diversity. All pet pigs are the same species as commercial pigs – Sus scrofa – and this also includes the European wild boar. Management of pet pigs is subtly different from that of commercial pigs, and this should be borne in mind when dealing with these animals. This article describes how to handle and examine the pet pig, highlighting the normal parameters for these animals, and outlines the measures that can be implemented to prevent disease. An article in the next issue will discuss problems commonly encountered in pet pigs.
Keeping it clean: further lessons for infection control
Authors: Polton Gerry , Elwood Clive
Published: October 2010

IN 2006, Gerry Polton and Clive Elwood described how an infection control group was set up in their practice to investigate infection risks and improve hygiene practices (In Practice, October 2006, volume 28, pp 548‐550). The practice duly saw improvements in the incidence of hospital‐acquired infections. However, infection control is an ongoing process and here they report further on what has been learned from their experiences.
Finding the right partner
Authors: Stobbs Christine
Published: October 2010

PARTNERSHIPS and sole principal businesses are probably still the most common trading structures for veterinary practices, although some have adopted one of the more commercial entities, such as a limited company. However, partnerships are not always successful and may eventually break down. The chances of this happening could be greatly reduced with some forethought and planning. To ensure a successful working relationship, it is important to be clear from the outset of the reasons for taking on a new partner and of the type of person who will fit that role, as Christine Stobbs explains.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Yeates James
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Obese dog’, is presented and discussed by James Yeates. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Pregnant downer cow’, which was published in the February issue, appears on page 174. The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Physiotherapy in small animal practice
Authors: Sharp Brian
Published: October 2010

THE benefits of physiotherapy and rehabilitation for small animals have been increasingly recognised over recent years, and although some practices have adopted and integrated physiotherapy, there is great variation in the quality and quantity of the physiotherapy on offer. Physiotherapy is often perceived as an alternative therapy, whereas it is in fact complementary to conventional veterinary treatment and best used in collaboration with it. The non‐specialist vet and nurse can easily provide simple physiotherapy techniques in‐house, and having qualified veterinary physiotherapists on‐site, or available via referral, provides an additional valuable resource for the practice. The provision of physiotherapy can also promote a very positive, caring image to clients, as well as improving outcomes for animals following injury or surgery. This article explores the benefits of integrating physiotherapy and rehabilitation into small animal practice, and describes the various techniques and skills that the qualified physiotherapist can bring to the veterinary team. It examines the concerns of the reluctant practitioner to introduce physiotherapy practices, and offers suggestions for effective integration and collaborative working.
Multimodal analgesia for postoperative pain relief
Authors: Slingsby Louisa
Published: October 2010

MULTIMODAL or balanced analgesia is a technique that is suitable for both large and small animals experiencing pain that may be difficult to control with a single analgesic agent. The effect is easily achievable using a combination of licensed (in some cases) and unlicensed (in some cases) analgesic products, and may only require a small modification of the analgesia regimen already used within veterinary practice. This article defines multimodal analgesia and describes some of the combinations that can be employed in practice.
Putting PR into practice
Authors: Molyneux Jacqui
Published: October 2010

VERY soon, if you're not promoting your practice through effective publicity techniques, you may find that you begin to struggle in an increasingly competitive world, warns Jacqui Molyneux. Veterinary practices, like many other profession‐led businesses, are now re‐evaluating their marketing budgets. Where once their entire promotional spend would be devoted to advertising, perhaps consisting of an advert in the Yellow Pages and a note in the classifieds, as well as good old word of mouth, many practices are rapidly finding that such an approach is no longer sufficient.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Dykes Linda
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Rabbit tooth abscess’, is presented and discussed by Linda Dykes. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Obese dog’, which was published in the March issue of In Practice, appears on page 233.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Hydrotherapy in practice
Authors: Prankel Susanne
Published: October 2010

HYDROTHERAPY involving therapeutic exercise in the form of swimming or walking in water (in contrast to balneotherapy, which involves simply bathing) is increasingly used in dogs as an effective adjunct to surgical and medical treatments for a range of conditions, such as postoperative rehabilitation for orthopaedic and neurological conditions, as well as behavioural and obesity‐related problems. This article discusses the indications, theory and practice of canine hydrotherapy, but most of the principles considered also apply to horses.
Control of classical scrapie in Great Britain
Authors: Dawson Michael , Del Rio Vilas Victor
Published: October 2010

CLASSICAL scrapie has been recognised as a fatal neurological disease in sheep in Great Britain for almost 300 years and, until recently, control at flock level has been difficult to achieve. As with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), disease control strategies have been hampered by an inability to identify infected individuals before clinical signs are recognised. In 1999, in response to concerns raised as a result of human variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease and the subsequent link to BSE, the sheep subgroup of the Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC) recommended that there should be a long‐term control programme aimed at eliminating scrapie from the national flock and protecting consumers from possible foodborne exposure to ovine BSE. Thus, the National Scrapie Plan (NSP) was launched in 2001. This article outlines the progress made so far by the NSP and considers its possible impact on scrapie surveillance data.
Diagnosis and implications of botulism
Authors: Hogg Robert , Livesey Chris , Payne Jo
Published: October 2010

BOTULISM is a neuroparalytic condition affecting birds, mammals and fish, and is caused by exposure to toxins produced by various biotypes of Clostridium botulinum. Until a few years ago, botulism was considered to be a rare disease in farm animals in the UK. However, since 2003, there has been an upsurge in the number of suspected cases reported, particularly in cattle and more recently sheep. The diagnosis of botulism is problematic and relies heavily on clinical signs. Confidence in the diagnosis is improved by identifying the risk factors and suspect sources, and by ruling out the more common differential diagnoses. This article describes the clinical signs of classic and atypical disease, and discusses the implications of a diagnosis of botulism with regard to animal welfare, food safety and public health.
Diagnosis and management of acute stifle injury in adult horses
Authors: Reardon Richard , Lischer Christoph
Published: October 2010

LAMENESS associated with the stifle is relatively infrequent in horses. However, a number of conditions affecting the stifle region can cause acute lameness and need to be recognised. Stifle injuries are often the result of direct trauma such as kicks from other horses or failure to successfully clear fixed fences at speed, but can also result from abnormal rotational forces acting on the joint. The degree of lameness usually, but not invariably, reflects the severity of the damage. Some degree of soft tissue swelling may develop, although the absence of detectable swelling does not preclude severe damage. When confronted with suspected stifle injuries in the field, careful palpation of the area is an important part of the clinical investigation and requires good knowledge of the anatomy and function of the joint. This article describes the basic anatomy and function of the stifle, reviews the diagnostic techniques that are frequently used to investigate acute stifle injuries and presents some of the more common causes of acute lameness associated with the stifle region.
Thinking green when designing a new practice
Authors: Keith Tony , Cowell Martin
Published: October 2010

A NEW PDSA PetAid hospital will open its doors later this year in Kirkdale, Liverpool. In designing the building, the PDSA worked closely with architects to ensure that the new hospital was as environmentally friendly as possible. Tony Keith and Martin Cowell outline the considerations when planning the hospital, and suggest ways in which any practice can be made more energy efficient and sustainable.
Wildlife as reservoirs of zoonotic diseases in the UK
Authors: Simpson Vic
Published: October 2010

MANY more infectious diseases of humans can be acquired from animals, particularly wild animals, than from other humans. Despite this, the role of wildlife as reservoirs of disease has, until recently, been largely ignored by disease surveillance programmes in the UK. With the emergence of major diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus in China, West Nile virus in North America and, more recently, the H5N1 strain of avian influenza virus in the Far East, there has been a marked change in attitude. These diseases may affect humans but, in each case, the principal reservoir of infection has been wild animals. As social and economic conditions change worldwide, more, often novel, zoonotic diseases are emerging. Some of these have already reached the UK and it is inevitable that more will appear in the coming years. This article reviews some of the wildlife zoonoses already known to be present in the UK.
Current vaccination strategies in dogs and cats
Authors: Böhm Marlies
Published: October 2010

VACCINES play a vital role in controlling and preventing infectious diseases in small animals. Vaccination is an established concept for preventive health care and an important source of income for most veterinary practices. Although most veterinary surgeons administer vaccines daily, it has become such a routine part of the working day that few stop to consider the science behind this aspect of veterinary medicine. In the late 1990s, potential side effects of vaccination were highlighted by both the medical and veterinary communities, and ideal vaccination protocols have been hotly debated ever since. This article outlines the current recommendations for vaccination in dogs and cats, explains the rationale behind them and discusses some of the more recent developments in this field.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Yeates James
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Prize draw with a difference’, was submitted by a reader and is presented and discussed by James Yeates. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Shooting for pleasure’, which was published in the November/December 2008 issue of In Practice, appears on page 44. The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Changing patterns of parasitism in sheep
Authors: Taylor Mike
Published: October 2010

There have been noticeable changes in the epidemiology of many common sheep parasites over the past few years. It is not clear whether this reflects changes in sheep management and production and the sheep industry itself, the effects of climate change, the overuse of antiparasitics and selection for resistance (treatment practices and selection pressures), or, indeed, a function of all these factors. However, it is apparent that the implementation of parasitic control strategies needs to take these and other issues into account and, where necessary, such programmes will require appropriate modifications. This article discusses the affect of each factor and its impact on the prevalence of endo‐ and ectoparasitism in sheep.
Reaping the rewards of better management
Authors: Orpin Peter
Published: October 2010

IN recent years, the profession has undergone a ‘quiet revolution’. Increasing pressures on practice profits have been driven by a reduction in medicines margins and increasing employment, diagnostic technology and fixed costs. The expansion and development of larger group practices with clearer business plans and focus has introduced new business challenges for the traditional smaller practice that has typically focused on providing a service for the client and the quality of clinical work as its route to success. In this article, Peter Orpin suggests how practice management skills can be improved to cope with the changing requirements of business.
Successfully managing a surgical list
Authors: Whiting Colin
Published: October 2010

PERFORMING the day's operations in a brisk and efficient manner increases owner satisfaction, improves practice turnover and reduces costs. Managing a surgical list to juggle all priorities is a skill in itself, and frequently makes the difference between a busy, happy day and a frantic, hectic one. Here, Colin Whiting identifies some of the pitfalls and suggests solutions to quell the pain of overly busy operating days.
How to sharpen your interviewing skills
Authors: Miller Julie
Published: October 2010

INTERVIEWING is an art form. When done well, the best possible outcome is achieved for everyone involved. Yet very few people regularly conduct high‐quality interviews, so bad decisions are often made. Here, Julie Miller suggests ways to improve your interviewing technique.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Dennison Tania
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Dog needs a new home?’, is presented and discussed by Tania Dennison. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Bulldog caesarean’, which was published in the February issue of In Practice, appears on page 148.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.