bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey of the incidence, diagnosis, clinical manifestations and treatment of Spirocerca lupi in South Africa : research communication
Authors: Lobetti R.G.
Published: August 2012

A questionnaire survey of 716 veterinary practices was undertaken to determine the incidence of Spirocerca lupi in dogs in South Africa. In total, 49 %of the questionnaires were returned, indicating a possible incidence of 28 %. Fewer than 4 cases per year were recorded by 82 %of the respondents; 4-12 by 14 %; 12-24 by 3 %; and more than 48 by only 1 %. No seasonal incidence was reported by 48 %of the respondents. Large breeds were considered to be at greater risk by 43 % of respondents. No specific age or sex was identified to be at higher risk. The most common complaints by owners and clinical findings were vomition (46 %), weight loss (27 %), coughing (21 %) or regurgitation (20 %), although 14 %of respondents reported no abnormal clinical findings. Diagnostic methods used were radiology (74 %), endoscopy (27 %), post mortem examination (34 %) and faecal flotation (4 %). Complications associated with S. lupi were reported by 76 % of respondents, which included oesophageal neoplasia (41 %), hypertrophic osteopathy (38 %) and acute haemothorax (30 %). Specific treatments were used by 58 % of the respondents, whereas 42 % of the respondents either used no treatment (72 %) or recommended euthanasia (28 %). Of the treatment group, 52 % used ivermectin, 27 % doramectin, 13 % other deworming drugs (benzimidazoles, nitroscanate), and 8 % used disophenol. Sixty-three percent of the respondents considered their treatment ineffective, whereas 31 % considered it effective, and 6 % were unsure. The overall mortality rate was high.
Prognostic indicators of post partum viability of kids born to Escherichia coli-vaccinated or unvaccinated does : research communication
Authors: Munyua S.J.M. , Karioki D.I. , Chibeu D.M. , Wabacha J.K. , Thaiya A.G. , Njenga J.M. , Gathuma J.M. , Mitaru B.
Published: August 2012

This study was undertaken to determine some blood and other physiological parameters with potential for use as prognostic indicators of viability of newborn goat kids. Of the 143 kids born during the on-farmstudy, 97 were crosses of Galla Ã— Small East African (SEA) and 46 were pure SEA. The SEA Ã— Galla kids were 46 single males, with a mean body weight at birth of 2.77 Â± 0.22 kg , 43 females with a mean body weight at birth of 2.36 Â± 0.76 kg and 5 and 3 sets of female and male twins (mean body weight at birth of 1.8 Â± 0.19 kg and 2.05 Â± 0.07 kg for the female and male kids, respectively). The SEA kids comprised 36 single male and female kids (mean body weight at birth of 2.48 Â± 0.04 kg and 10 sets of twins (both male and female) (mean body weight at birth of 1.50 Â± 0.04 kg ). Pre-suckling sera obtained on-station from kids born of does vaccinated against Escherichia coli (n = 8) and unvaccinated does (n = 7) had a total protein content of 40.0 g/l and no detectable levels of IgG and A or E. coli antibodies. Sera obtained 12 hours post partum from kids that survived in both groups contained about 19-22 g of Ig g/ , 50-80 g total protein/ , blood glucose of 5 mmol/l and had an E. coli antibody titre of between 1/160 and 1/640. On the other hand, kids that died within 48 hours of birth (parturient deaths) and had been classified in categories 3 and 4 righting reaction had low ( 40 g//l ) total protein, low white blood cell count (4000/m/l ) and low blood glucose concentration ( 4.9 mmol//l ). It is concluded that kids with delayed righting reaction ( 45 minutes), low rectal temperature ( 36 Â°C), low birth weights ( 1.5 kg for singles and 1.0 kg for twins), low white blood cells ( 4000/ m/l ), low ( 2 mmol/l ) blood glucose levels, low total protein ( 40.0 g//l ), low ( 1:160) E. coli antibody titre and IgG ( 3350 mg//l ) in sera obtained 12 hours after birth have a poor prognosis for survival.
Use of herbal remedies by small-scale farmers to treat livestock diseases in central Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Masika P.J. , Van Averbeke W. , Sonandi A.
Published: August 2012

The use of herbal remedies by African farmers in the treatment of livestock diseases was investigated using a range of methods, including group interviews, structured interviews, semi-structured interviews and participant observation. The study was concerned mainly with the 'why' and 'how' of herbal remedy use among African livestock holders farming on communally-owned land in central Eastern Cape Province. We found that the use of herbal remedies was still widespread because these remedies were cheap, locally available and convenient to administer. Farmers also used herbal remedies because they did not have knowledge of conventional remedies or found these too expensive and therefore used herbal remedies as a last resort. Most of the farmers interviewed (73 %) had used some form of herbal remedy. A small number of farmers did not use herbal remedies at all. They rejected them because they had bad experiences in the past or because they considered the practice outdated and socially inferior. Often farmers used herbal remedies in combination with conventional ones, but a substantial number relied on herbal remedies only. Farmers obtained herbal remedies principally by preparing their own or by purchasing from herbalists. Different plant parts were used to prepare herbal remedies in the form of infusions, decoctions, powders, pastes, and juices from fresh plant material. Preparations were made from a single plant or from a range of plants. Application of a remedy was by different routes and methods, depending on the perceived cause of the disease condition. Topical applications were used for skin conditions, powders were rubbed into incisions, drenches were common in the treatment of systemic conditions, and drops to treat ears and eyes. We identified several aspects of herbal remedy utilisation that could be subject to improvement, which included the absence of standard dose regimes, the potential toxicity of certain compounds present in plants used, over-exploitation of the plant resource and a lack of interest by the youth to learn the art.
Animal husbandry in Moretele 1 of North-West Province: implications for veterinary training and research
Authors: Letsoalo S.S. , Krecek R.C. , Botha C.A.J. , Ngetu X.
Published: August 2012

Little is known regarding the keeping of animals in the Moretele 1 area of North-West Province, South Africa. Therefore, the status and dynamics of animal husbandry, as well as a general assessment of the needs of animal owners in this area were researched. Results of the investigation will be used to make recommendations for improved veterinary extension servicing in the area. Semi-structured interviews, based on discussions with relevant stakeholders in the community and a resultant problem conceptualisation, were undertaken at 266 randomly selected households in 51 villages and centres in the area, after which the data was checked and verified before being captured and analysed. The findings reveal that within the field of veterinary extension delivery: 1) there is a demand for visual and written extension material, 2) the extension services must function where clients reside, 3) limitations in terms of infrastructure are present and should be addressed through partnerships and coordination amongst all the role-players in the Moretele 1 area, and 4) cattle and poultry are the most important of the animal species and should be the focus points of extension, but the need to curb zoonotic disease should not be disregarded. In this regard veterinary clinics, private veterinarians and other role-players should be used in partnership with extension workers. Lastly, the veterinary clinic is regarded as helpful in many respects by the community consulted and the service should be upgraded and made available to a wider client base, especially where private and state veterinarians are unavailable or too expensive in such resource-limited communities.
Evaluation of two PCR-based procedures for typing Clostridium perfringens : research communication
Authors: Dungu B. , Henton M.M. , Bosman A. , Fourie H. , Viljoen G.
Published: August 2012

Two polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based procedures for typing Clostridium perfringens, which affects most domestic animals, were compared and evaluated for efficiency as substitute to the guinea-pig intradermal test routinely used in our laboratory, namely a multiplex PCR and a protocol based on the individual amplification of gene sequences specific for each toxin. Reference isolates of C. perfringens types A, B, C and D as well as cultures from clinical specimens were tested. The sensitivity and specificity of the PCR was confirmed on reference isolates. There was similarity in results on 43 of the 46 samples typed by all 3 methods. Clear results were obtained by PCR on 5 clinical samples that showed either equivocal or weak skin reactions in guinea-pigs. The multiplex PCR protocol, in combination with the evaluation of bacterial growth, is a better alternative to in vivo toxin typing, since C. perfringens can only be incriminated as cause of a disease when it is present in large numbers in the intestine.
28th Annual Congress - Parasitological Society of Southern Africa : conference abstracts
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 71, Issue 2, Jun
A preliminary evaluation of a sheep blowfly trap in the Western Cape
Authors: Scholtz A.J. , Cloete S.W.P. , Laubscher J.M. , De Beer E.F.
Published: August 2012

An insecticide-free sheep blowfly trapping system, utilising a synthetic lure, was evaluated at 4 localities in the Western Cape. Control sites, where no suppression was practised, were identified for each locality. The blowfly population was monitored for 48 hours monthly at each of the localities. Five to 7 suppression traps at the respective localities were identified for this purpose. Three to 10 traps were set monthly for monitoring in the control areas. Trapping resulted in the suppression (P 0.01) of the Lucilia population at Caledon, where a large area of approximately 50 km 2 was trapped. The suppression area of all the localities was =850 ha. At Elsenburg, blowfly numbers were low. There was a strong suggestion of a general reduction in the Lucilia numbers at this locality. Trapping failed to reduce Lucilia numbers at Tygerhoek and Langgewens. Lack of control over the influx of Lucilia from adjacent sheep-producing areas probably contributed to this result. The observed response at Elsenburg was probably due to its situation in a predominantly wine-growing area. Most of the blowflies recovered from the control traps during the month with the highest yield at the respective localities belonged to the genus Lucilia. The results obtained at Caledon and published reports suggest that large-scale trapping of Lucilia spp. may play a role in an integrated pest management system for blowflies.
Routine veterinary anaesthetic management practices in South Africa
Authors: Joubert K.E.
Published: August 2012

A survey of the routine anaesthetic management of dogs and cats during sterilisation by veterinarians in South Africa was conducted. This report describes the premedication, induction and maintenance agents most commonly used in dogs and cats. Information about monitoring of patients during the procedure and who is responsible for induction of anaesthesia and monitoring was obtained. Questionnaires were analysed with regard to demographic data, practice size, continuing education, the number of surgical procedures and sterilisations performed per week and an estimate of yearly mortality. Acetylpromazine is the most commonly used premedication in dogs and xylazine in cats. Thiopentone in dogs and alphaxalone/alphadolone in cats were the induction agents most commonly used. Alphaxalone/alphadolone in cats and halothane in dogs are the most commonly used maintenance agents. Records of anaesthesia are poorly kept and monitoring of patients is poorly performed. Respiratory rate is the parameter most commonly monitored (90.7 %), and in most cases is the sole parameter. On average 10.34 ± 8.25 cats were operated per week, of which 5.45 ±5.60 were sterilised; 17.79 ±11.61 dogs were operated per week, of which 8.65 ±7.10 were sterilised. In total, 190 patients died under anaesthesia, a mortality rate of 1:1243. Just over 50 % of practitioners had attended continuing education courses during their careers.
Ectoparasites of dogs belonging to people in resource-poor communities in North West Province, South Africa
Authors: Bryson N.R. , Horak I.G. , Höhn E.W. , Louw J.P.
Published: August 2012

A total of 344 dogs belonging to people in resource-poor communities in North West Province, South Africa, was examined for ectoparasites, and all visible arthropods were collected from the left side of each dog. By doubling these numbers it was estimated that the dogs harboured 14 724 ixodid ticks, belonging to 6 species, 1028 fleas, belonging to 2 species, and 26 lice. Haemaphysalis leachi accounted for 420 and Rhipicephalus sanguineus for 14 226 of the ticks. Pure infestations of H. leachi were present on 14 dogs and of R. sanguineus on 172 dogs. Small numbers of Amblyomma hebraeum, R. appendiculatus, R. evertsi evertsi and R. simus were also collected. The predominance of R. sanguineus accounts for the high prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia canis) within the survey region, compared to canine babesiosis (Babesia canis), which is transmitted by H. leachi, and is a much rarer disease.
Dirofilaria repens in a cat with acute liver failure : case report
Authors: Schwan E.V. , Miller D.B. , De Kock D. , Van Heerden A.
Published: August 2012

Acute liver failure was diagnosed in a 12-year-old cat. Fine needle aspirate cytology revealed high numbers of unsheathed microfilariae and a hepatocellular reaction with no evidence of bacterial infection. The microfilariae were identified as those of Dirofilaria repens by acid phosphatase staining. The high number of microfilariae seen in both the blood and the liver aspirate samples as well as the favourable response to ivermectin amongst other drugs administered, is suggestive that D. repens was the cause of the liver insult. A positive result obtained with an antigen-capture ELISA (Dirochek (r)) for Dirofilaria immitis antigen was interpreted as false. This is the 1st report of Dirofilaria repens for South Africa.
Control of immature stages of the flea Ctenocephalides felis(Bouché) in carpets exposed to cats treated with imidacloprid
Authors: Fourie L.J. , Kok D.J. , Peter R.J.
Published: August 2012

Fleas cause allergic dermatitis in cats and dogs and therefore warrant control. It has been demonstrated previously that there is marked inhibition of the development of the immature stages of the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis on fleece blankets exposed to cats treated with imidacloprid. This study reports on the efficacy of imidacloprid in suppressing adult flea emergence in carpet exposed to treated cats. Circular discs of carpet pre-seeded with flea eggs and larvae were exposed to 6 untreated control and 6 topically treated (imidacloprid 10 % m/v) cats 1 to 2 days after treatment and subsequently fortnightly for 6 weeks. Exposure times on alternate days were either 1 or 6 hours. Adult flea yield from carpets was determined 35 days after exposure. Differences between flea yield on control carpets and those exposed for 1 hour were significant only for days +1 and +14. For the 6-hour exposure, differences were significant at all times except on Day +43. The ability of imidacloprid to suppress the yield of adult fleas on carpets (6-hour exposure) steadily declined from 82 % (Day +2) to 12 %(Day +43). For the 1-hour exposure it varied inconsistently between 0 and 83 % over the 6-week study period.
Acute pancreatitis : a newly recognised potential complication of canine babesiosis
Authors: Möhr A.J. , Lobetti R.G. , Van der Lugt J.J.
Published: August 2012

This retrospective study describes 4 cases of canine babesiosis with histologically confirmed acute pancreatitis. In addition, 16 dogs with babesiosis are reported with serum amylase (3500 U/l ) and/or lipase (650 U/l ) activity elevations of a magnitude that would support a diagnosis of probable acute pancreatitis, although extra-pancreatic sources of the enzymes could not be excluded in these cases. Median time of pancreatitis diagnosis was 2.5 days post-admission, with primarily young (median age 3 years), sexually intact dogs affected. The development of pancreatitis was unrelated to the degree of anaemia at time of admission. In addition to pancreatitis, 80 % of cases suffered from other babesial complications, namely icterus (13), acute respiratory distress syndrome (6), immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (6), renal failure (3), haemoconcentration (2) and cerebral syndrome (2). Acute respiratory distress syndrome, renal failure and cerebral syndrome were associated with a poor prognosis, with 4 of the 5 dogs included in the overall 26 % mortality rate having at least 1 of these complications. Haemolytic anaemia with ischaemia-reperfusion injury to the pancreas is proposed as a possible primary pathophysiological mechanism in babesial pancreatitis. Hypotensive shock, immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia, haemoconcentration and possibly altered lipid metabolism in babesiosis may also be involved. The previously postulated pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu of complicated babesiosis may underlie the progression, if not the primary initiation, of pancreatic pathology. Acute pancreatitis may represent the previously reported 'gut' form of babesiosis.
The use of herbal preparations for tick control in western Ethiopia
Authors: Regassa A.
Published: August 2012

Information on the traditional tick control methods used in Keffa, Illubabor and Wellega Provinces in western Ethiopia was obtained from 86 veterinary clinics and 865 peasant farmers through a questionnaire survey. Latexes of Euphorbia obovalifolia and Ficus brachypoda, juice of crushed leaves of Phytolaca dodecandra and Vernonia amygdalina, fruit juice of Solanum incanum, crushed seeds of Lepidium sativum mixed with fresh cattle faeces, juice of crushed leaves and bark of Calpurnea aurea and commercially available spice of Capsicum spp. mixed with butter, were used by peasant farmers to control ticks. Preliminary in vitro efficacy tests of these plant preparations were performed on engorged female Boophilus decoloratus. Preparations of Capsicum spp., E. obovalifolia, S. incanum and F. brachypoda were found to have 30-100 % killing effects. Subsequently, in vivo treatment trials of these preparations were conducted using indigenous Bos indicus cattle naturally infested with ticks. Results indicate that treatments at the rate of once per day for 5 consecutive days with the latexes of E. obovalifolia and F. brachypoda can reduce tick burdens by up to 70 % on cattle.
Helminth parasites of indigenous chickens in Oodi, Kgatleng District, Botswana : short communication
Authors: Mushi E.Z. , Binta M.G. , Chabo R.G. , Ndebele R. , Thibanyane T.
Published: August 2012

Thirteen adult indigenous chickens from Oodi, Kgatleng district, Botswana, were examined for helminth parasites. Two species of nematodes, Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum, and species of the cestode genus Raillietina, were recovered. A. galli and H. gallinarumwere the most commonly seen parasites. The nematode A. galli occurred concurrently with Raillietina spp.
Parasites of domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Sebele, Gaborone, Botswana : short communication
Authors: Mushi E.Z. , Binta M.G. , Chabo R.G. , Ndebele R. , Panzirah R.
Published: August 2012

The following parasites were found in apparently healthy pigeons kept in Sebele: a haemoprotozoan, Haemoproteus columbae (80 %); endoparasite metazoan nematodes, Ascaridia columbae(30 %) and Dispharynx spiralis(10 %); a cestode, Raillietina sp. (80 %) and coccidian oocysts (40 %); 2 ectoparasites, namely the pigeon fly, Pseudolynchia canariensis (50 %) and the louse, Columbicola columbae (30 %). The pigeons also had high antibody titres, (1:256) to the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (100 %). The latter infection in these domestic pigeons has public health implications.
Index, Volume 71 - 2000 : subject / Indeks, Jaargang 71 - 2000 : onderwerp
Authors: Subject Index
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 71, Issue 4, Dec
Index, Volume 71 - 2000 : author / Indeks, Jaargang 71 - 2000 : outeur
Authors: Author Index
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 71, Issue 4, Dec
The use of haloperidol during the transport of adult ostriches : to the editor
Authors: Pfitzer S. , Lambrechts H.
Published: August 2012

Reports on the use of haloperidol during transport of ostriches by sea. Recommends the use of haloperidol at a dose rate of 15 to 25 mg to treat aggression and abnormal behaviour.
Genetic variation in the feral horses of the Namib Desert, Namibia
Authors: Cothran E.G. , Van Dyk E. , Van der Merwe F.J.
Published: August 2012

Genetic variation at 7 blood-group and 10 biochemical genetic loci was examined in 30 horses from a feral herd from the Namib Desert of Namibia, Africa. The observed genetic variability was extremely low compared with that found in domestic horse breeds. The low variation was most probably a result of recent small population size and a small founding population size. Genetic comparison of the Namib horses, which were of unknown origins, to domestic horse breeds, showed that the Namib horses had the highest genetic similarity to Arabian type horses, although they did not closely resemble this type of horse in conformation.
Renal involvement in dogs with babesiosis
Authors: Lobetti R.G. , Jacobson L.S.
Published: August 2012

Proteinuria, and renal tubular casts and epithelial cells in urine sediment, are commonly observed in both complicated and uncomplicated babesiosis, but do not necessarily reflect or predict renal failure. This study investigated the presence and degree of renal damage in canine babesiosis. Renal function and integrity were evaluated using serum urea and creatinine, serum electrolytes (sodium and potassium), fractional clearance of sodium (FcNa) and potassium (FcK), urine enzyme activity of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and alkaline phosphatase, urine protein:creatinine ratio, and urinalysis. One control group (n =10) and 3 groups of babesiosis cases were studied: mild uncomplicated (n =10), severe uncomplicated (n = 11), and complicated (n = 9). All babesiosis groups showed well-concentrated urine. Mean serum urea was elevated in the severe and complicated groups, and was significantly different from the control group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for creatinine, although the complicated group had a mean value above the normal reference range. Hypokalaemia was uncommon in all the groups. Hyperkalaemia was present in only 2 dogs in the complicated group. Marginal hyponatraemia was present in a minority of dogs in all groups. The serumelectrolytes were not significantly different between groups. There was no overall elevation, nor any statistically significant difference in both the FcNa and FcK between the groups. Only 1 dog, in the complicated group, showed marked enzymuria. Proteinuria was a common finding and was significantly different between the severe and complicated groups and the control group. Some dogs in all groups had renal tubular epithelial cells in the urinary sediment, which increased in severity from the mild to the complicated groups and was significantly different from the control group. This study demonstrated that minimal renal damage occurs more often in canine babesiosis than significant damage or acute renal failure.
Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) in a Brahman's preputial sheath : a case report from Botswana : case report
Authors: Isa J.F.W. , Magembe S.R. , Naudé T.W.
Published: August 2012

Failure of penile protrusion during attempted service of a cow on heat was investigated in a 3-year-old Brahman bull at Kwakwadi cattle-post in the Kgalahadi sandveld, Kweneng District, Botswana. The investigation revealed that penile protrusion was obstructed by a devil's claw (grapple thorn), a dry fruit of the plant Harpagophytum procumbens, which had lodged in the cavum preputiale. The thorn, which was removed almost completely manually with minimal tissue dissection, had also caused minor lacerations and puncture wounds on the lamina interna pars parietalis. The wounds healed well following treatment with antiseptics and antibiotics and subsequently the bull regained full penile protrusion and served the cows well. This report describes the first case of lodgement of a devil's claw fruit in, and its extraction from, the cavum preputiale of a Brahman.
The use of analgesic drugs by South African veterinarians : continuing education
Authors: Joubert K.E.
Published: August 2012

According to a survey, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents were the most popular analgesic used in South Africa for management of peri-operative pain, acute post-operative pain and chronic pain. The most popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents are flunixin meglumine and phenylbutazone. The most popular opioid type drug is buprenorphine, followed by morphine. In the peri-operative setting, analgesic agents were not actively administered to 86.3 % of cats and 80.7 % of dogs. Analgesic premedications were frequently administered, e.g. xylazine or ketamine, but no specific drug was administered for post-operative pain. Veterinarians need to critically review their anaesthetic and analgesic practices in order to achieve balanced anaesthesia.
Prevalence of Culicoides imicola and other species (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) ateight sites in Zimbabwe : to the editor
Authors: Musuka G.N. , Mellor P.S. , Meiswinkel R. , Baylis M. , Kelly P.J.
Published: August 2012

Presents some prevalence data on Culicoides imicola and Culicoides bolitinos in Zimbabwe. Includes data on other common species, as revealed by collections made over 2 years at 8 widely-separated study sites
Chlamydial abortion in goats in the Umzimkulu District of Eastern Cape : to the editor
Authors: Jeyakumar C.S.
Published: August 2012

Reports on the prevalence of chlamydial abortion in goats in the Bossenfontein and Ngozi administrative areas in the Eastern Cape Province
Lumpy skin disease in southern Africa : a review of the disease and aspects of control
Authors: Hunter P. , Wallace D.
Published: August 2012

This article reviews some of the important aspects of lumpy skin disease (LSD) that may impact on its successful control. A resurgence of the disease in the last decade has highlighted some constraints of the Neethling strain vaccine, but there is no evidence of vaccine breakdowns owing to the presence of heterologous field strains. More research is needed on epidemiology and transmission of LSD in South Africa to formulate control measures.
Effects on anionic salts in a pre-partum dairy ration on calcium metabolism
Authors: Van Dijk C.J. , Lourens D.C.
Published: August 2012

The effects of anionic salts in the transition diet on serum and urine calcium at calving and on peripartal health, subsequent milk production and fertility performance were studied in a well-managed, high-producing Friesland dairy herd. Over a period of a year, approximately 21 days before the expected date of calving, 28 pre-partum heifers and 44 multiparous dry cows were randomly allocated within parity to 1 of 2 transition diets, designated control and experimental anionic diets. The anionic diet contained the same quantities of the basic transition ration fed to the control group as well as a standard anionic salt mixture containing 118 g NH4Cl, 36 g (NH4)2SO4 and 68 g MgSO4 (total 222 g) per animal per day. This reduced the DCAD to -11.68 mEq/100 g dietary dry matter compared to +13.57 for the control diet. Blood and urine were randomly sampled from 7 to 8 animals within each category within 3 hours post-partum. Serum calcium (total and ionised) and creatinine, urine calcium and creatinine and the fractional clearance of calcium were assessed. Relevant clinical, milk production, and fertility data were collected. The total serum calcium (2.07 versus 1.60 mmol/ ), serum ionised calcium (1.12 vs 1.02 mmol/ ), urine calcium (0.92 vs 0.10 mmol/ ) and the fractional clearance of calcium (1.88 vs 0.09 %) were significantly higher (P 0.01) at calving for multiparous cows fed the anionic diet compared to those fed the control diet. In the primiparous cows there were no significant differences in serumcalcium levels. However, the urine calcium (1.07 vs 0.43 mmol/ ) and the fractional clearance of calcium was higher (1.75 vs 0.45 %) in cows fed the anionic diet (P 0.05 and 0.01 respectively). These results illustrated that there were benefits, although no differences were demonstrated with respect to health, milk production or fertility. The supplementation of diets with anionic salts in the last 2-3 weeks before calving has the potential to significantly improve parturient calcium homeostasis.
First report of a parasitic mite, Leptotrombidium (Hypotrombidium) subquadratum (Lawrence) (Acari : Trombiculidae : Trombiculinae), from dogs and children in the Bloemfontein area, South Africa : case report
Authors: Heyne H. , Ueckermann E.A. , Coetzee L.
Published: August 2012

Leptotrombidium subquadratum larvae were collected for the first time in 1994 from dogs in Bloemfontein. The larvae have been collected annually, during the summer months, over a period of 6-7 years. Previously the only known hosts were scrub hare (Lepus saxatilis) (locality unknown) and short-snouted elephant shrew (Elephantulus brachyrhynchus) (Kruger National Park). These mites cause severe itching and dermatitis in humans and dogs.
Parasitological Challenges 2000 and Beyond : Parasitological Society of Southern Africa : conference abstracts
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Abstracts of papers presented at the 28th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Parasitological Society of Southern Africa - Parasitological Challenges 2000 and Beyond - held from 27-29 September 2000 in Bloemfontein.
The effect of frog pressure and downward vertical load on hoof wall weight-bearing and third phalanx displacement in the horse - an in vitro study : research communication
Authors: Olivier A. , Wannenburg J. , Gottschalk R.D. , Van der Linde M.J. , Groeneveld H.T.
Published: August 2012

A shoe was designed to combine the advantages of a reverse shoe and an adjustable heart bar shoe in the treatment of chronic laminitis. This reverse even frog pressure (REFP) shoe applies pressure uniformly over a large area of the frog solar surface. Pressure is applied vertically upward parallel to the solar surface of the frog and can be increased or decreased as required. Five clinically healthy horses were humanely euthanased and their dismem-bered forelimbs used in an in vitro study. Frog pressure was measured by strain gauges applied to the ground surface of the carrying tab portion of the shoe. A linear variable distance transducer (LVDT) was inserted into a hole drilled in the dorsal hoof wall. The LVDT measured movement of the third phalanx (P3) in a dorsopalmar plane relative to the dorsal hoof wall. The vertical component of hoof wall compression was measured by means of unidirectional strain gauges attached to the toe, quarter and heel of the medial hoof wall of each specimen. The entire limb was mounted vertically in a tensile testing machine and submitted to vertical downward compressive forces of 0 to 2500 Nat a rate of 5 cm/minute. The effects of increasing frog pressure on hoof wall weight-bearing and third phalanx movement within the hoof were determined. Each specimen was tested with the shoe under the following conditions: zero frog pressure; frog pressure used to treat clinical cases of chronic laminitis (7 N-cm); frog pressure clinically painful to the horse as determined prior to euthanasia; frog pressure just alleviating this pain. The specimens were also tested after shoe removal. Total weight-bearing on the hoof wall at zero frog pressure was used as the basis for comparison. Pain-causing and pain-alleviating frog pressures decreased total weight-bearing on the hoof wall (P 0.05). Frog pressure of 7 N-cm had no statistically significant effect on hoof wall weight-bearing although there was a trend for it to decrease as load increased. Before loading, the pain-causing and pain-alleviating frog pressures resulted in a palmar movement of P3 relative to the dorsal hoof wall compared to the position of P3 at zero frog pressure (P 0.05). This difference remained statistically significant up to 1300 Nload. At higher loads, the position of P3 did not differ significantly for the different frog pressures applied. It is concluded that increased frog pressure using the REFP shoe decreases total hoof wall weight-bearing and causes palmar movement of P3 at low weight-bearing loads. Without a shoe the toe and quarter hoof wall compression remained more constant and less in magnitude, than with a shoe.
Out-of-season breeding of milk goats - the effect of light treatment, melatonin and breed : research communication
Authors: Du Preez E.R. , Donkin E.F. , Boyazoglu P.A. , Rautenbach G.H. , Barry D.M. , Schoeman H.S.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectivity of melatonin in addition to light treatment (exposure to 2 hours of light during the night = a long-day photoperiod) to modify the breeding season of Saanen and cross-bred milk goats and to compare the difference between the breeds. Twenty-two Saanen and 22 cross-bred does were randomly divided into 3 treatment groups. Group 1 (controls) received no treatment, Group 2 received light treatment for 37 days and Group 3 received light treatment plus melatonin implants after the light treatment. After a further 35 days the 3 groups were brought together and a billy goat that had also been exposed to the extra light at night, had received a melatonin implant and had been isolated from the does during the treatment period, was introduced to the does for natural mating. Ultrasound scanning was used to diagnose pregnancy and all the pregnant goats kidded. Significantly more Saanen does compared to cross-bred does (P = 0.018) became pregnant and kidded after natural mating, when the group that received melatonin as well as light treatment was compared to the group that received light treatment only. Compared to light treatment only, the addition of melatonin to light treatment improved (P = 0.0028) conception after natural mating, in both the Saanen and the cross-bred does.
The first reported case of equine nocardioform placentitis in South Africa : case report
Authors: Volkmann D.H. , Williams J.H. , Henton M.M. , Donahue J.M. , Williams N.M.
Published: August 2012

Since the late 1980s a distinct form of focally-extensive mucoid to mucopurulent uterine body chronic placentitis, caused by nocardioformorganisms, has been recognised in horses in the USA state of Kentucky and possibly in other areas. This disease has led to increasing numbers of foal losses from late abortions, still-births, prematurity, or early neonatal deaths. The foals are usually not infected, but may be small or emaciated. Modes of infection and transmission are as yet unknown. Nocardia spp. and related nocardioformbacteria as causes of equine infertility, endometritis and foal death are briefly reviewed. A case of near full-term abortion involving a Friesian mare in the Pretoria district of Gauteng Province in South Africa during February 2000, with the same placental lesion as described in the Kentucky cases, is presented. Nocardioform organisms were visualised on impression smears and histological sections of affected foetal membranes, and were also cultured. The organism has been identified at the Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center of the University of Kentucky as an Amycolatopsis sp. of the less-commonly diagnosed group of nocardioforms causing placentitis in the USA. The organism was cultured from the uterus of the mare 18 days post-foaling, but after a 2-week course of oral trimethoprim and sulphamethoxazole, based on antibiogram sensitivity testing, a uterine flush yielded no growth. A semen sample from the sire of the aborted foal did not yield any Gram-positive filamentous branching bacteria. The mare subsequently conceived to a single insemination.
Rectal prolapse associated with a healed pelvic fracture in a pregnant free-ranging African black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). Part 1 : anaesthesia : case report
Authors: Stegmann G.F. , Hofmeyr M. , Olivier A. , Lane E. , Volkmann D.H.
Published: August 2012

Anaesthesia was required in a heavily-pregnant, adult, free-ranging African black rhinoceros Diceros bicornis with a rectal prolapse for examination and possible treatment. The animal was immobilised with 4.5 mg etorphine and 60 mg azaperone. For continued observation, the immobilised animal was transported to a boma. Additional etorphine and azaperone were administered to keep the animal anaesthetised during treatment and transport. In addition, 15 mg nalorphine was administered during this time to improve ventilation and reduce muscle rigidity. Sixty hours later, in preparation for surgery, 2.5 mg etorphine and 40 mg azaperone were administered, followed by endotracheal intubation and halothane anaesthesia. During anaesthesia, a decrease in tidal volume was observed. Venous blood-gas analysis indicated a decrease in the oxygen partial pressure, and a mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis. Cardiac arrest was preceded by an increase in heart rate and tidal volume after 80 min of inhalation anaesthesia.
Rectal prolapse associated with a healed pelvic fracture in a pregnant free-ranging African black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). Part 2 : surgery and necropsy : case report
Authors: Olivier A. , Lane E. , Volkmann D.H. , Hofmeyr M. , Stegmann G.F.
Published: August 2012

The oedematous and traumatised protruding section of the rectal tissue of an adult free-ranging female African black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) was surgically amputated. Immediately before completion of surgery, the rhinoceros died of anaesthetic-related cardiac arrest. At necropsy a deformed pelvis and sacrum associated with a healed fracture of the left ileal wing were noted. New bone formation in and around the left ventral sacral foramina may have resulted in neuropathy of particularly the 3rd and 4th left ventral sacral nerves, which (in the horse) supply the majority of the nerve fibres innervating the caudal rectum and anus. The cause of the injury is not known, although back injuries, presumably sustained during mating by bulls, have been recorded in white rhinoceros. An encounter with elephants could also have been responsible for the injury in this case.
Ixodid ticks on indigenous goats owned by small-scale farmers in four communal grazing areas in South Africa
Authors: Bryson N.R. , Tice G.A. , Horak I.G. , Stewart C.G. , Du Plessis B.A.J.
Published: August 2012

Indigenous goats belonging to small-scale farmers in 4 communal grazing areas in South Africa were sampled for ixodid ticks during the period September 1991 to May 1993. Three of these areas were in the North West Province (Rietgat, Madinyane and Bethany), and one in Mpumalanga Province (Geluk). No tick control was practised unless requested by the owners. Seven ixodid tick species, of which the majority were immature ticks, were collected from the goats in North West Province. Amblyomma hebraeum was the most numerous of these, followed by Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi and Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. Substantially more ticks were collected from goats at Rietgat than at the Madinyane and Bethany grazing areas. Five tick species were collected at Geluk and R. evertsi evertsi comprised more than 95 % of the total population. At Rietgat and Geluk A. hebraeum nymphs were present on goats throughout the year, while most R appendiculatus nymphs were collected during September and October 1991 and most adults during January and February 1992. At both Rietgat and Geluk most immature R. evertsi evertsi were collected from spring to late summer, while adults were present throughout the year.
Possible application of a nematophagous fungus as a biological control agent of parasitic nematodes on commercial sheep farms in South Africa
Authors: Faedo M. , Krecek R.C.
Published: August 2012

Biological control of parasitic nematodes of livestock is currently under development and represents another tool that may be integrated into helminth parasite control strategies. This paper presents a brief introduction to commercial sheep farming in South Africa and currently available nematode parasite control methods. These include the FAMACHA(r) clinical assay, strategies of pasture management, dilution of resistant worm species by introduction of susceptible worms, breed resistant sheep and nutritional supplementation. The purpose of this paper is to outline the principles of biological control using nematophagous fungi and how it may be applied on sheep farms in South Africa.
An epidemiological survey demonstrating decline in reproductive efficiency with age and non-seasonality of reproductive parameters in German shepherd bitches in Kenya
Authors: Mutembei H.M. , Mutiga E.R. , Tsuma V.T.
Published: August 2012

An epidemiological survey undertaken in Kenya indicated that 2 previously well-established factors, namely decline in reproductive efficiency with age, and non-seasonality of canine reproductive parameters, hold true for German shepherd (GSD) bitches in Kenya. Data collection formswere distributed to randomly selected GSDbreeders and information so obtained was verified using East African Kennel Club records. Whelping was recorded throughout the year. The litter size varied from 1 to 14 pups per litter with a mean of 6.3 Â±0.4 SD puppies. Records of 567 whelpings and 3592 puppies were studied. The mean monthly whelping rate was 47.3 Â±7.2. There was no significant difference in the mean litter size by month (P 0.05).
Preliminary results on the use of diagnostic ultrasonography as a management tool to quantify egg production potential in breeding ostrich (Struthio camelus australis) females
Authors: Lambrechts H. , Cloete S.W.P. , Swart D. , Greyling J.P.C.
Published: August 2012

An ostrich breeding flock, joined as individual breeding pairs (n = 136 pairs), was used to investigate the possibility of diagnostic ultrasonography as a method to predict the reproductive performance of ostrich females during a breeding season. Follicular activity was easily detected and quantified by using diagnostic ultrasonography. One to 8 follicles were recorded in 25 % of females scanned at the beginning of the 9-month breeding season. At the end of the breeding season, 1-3 follicles were observed in 28.7 % females. Females in which follicular activity was observed came into production earlier than those in which no follicles were observed, with the mean (Â±SE) number of days to the production of the 1st egg being 22.3 Â± 12.5 and 87.4 Â± 7.2 days, respectively. Females in which follicular activity was observed at the beginning of the breeding season, produced on average 181 % more eggs during the 1st month of the breeding season (P 0.01) than females in which no follicular activity was observed (6.67 Â± 0.70 vs 2.37 Â± 0.41 eggs). Egg production over the first 2 months of breeding and over the entire breeding season were similarly affected (P 0.01), with the mean number of eggs produced over the first 2 months of the breeding season being 14.7 Â± 1.5 for females with observed follicular activity and 7.4 Â± 0.9 eggs for females with no observed follicular activity. Females in which follicular activity was observed at the end of the breeding season produced on average 108 % more eggs (P0.01) during the last month of the breeding season than females in which no follicular activity was observed (2.77 Â± 0.43 vs. 1.33 Â± 0.27 eggs). There was a tendency (P = 0.06) for egg production over the last 2 months to be similarly affected (6.10 Â± 0.85 vs 4.19 Â± 0.54 eggs). No relationship with egg production over the entire breeding season was found for the end-of-the-breeding-season observations. Diagnostic ultrasonography can thus be used as a management tool to identify reproductively healthy ostrich females and also females with a higher egg production potential over a period of 2 months after or prior to assessment. Future studies should focus on the development of the technique to predict reproductive performance over entire breeding seasons for selection purposes.
The breed prevalence of Dog Erythrocyte Antigen 1.1 in the Onderstepoort area of South Africa and its significance in selection of canine blood donors
Authors: Van der Merwe L.L. , Jacobson L.S. , Pretorius J.G.
Published: August 2012

The blood group antigen Dog Erythrocyte Antigen (DEA) 1.1 is clinically the most important canine blood group as DEA 1.1 antibodies are capable of causing acute haemolytic, potentially life-threatening transfusion reactions. Dogs do not have naturally occurring antibodies to DEA 1.1 but are rapidly sensitised by the first incompatible transfusion. The prevalence of DEA 1.1 in the general dog population is estimated at 42-46 %. Canine blood donors registered with the Onderstepoort Animal Blood Bank (n = 93) as well as potential donors (n = 140) were typed for DEA 1.1 using a monoclonal antibody card kit. All dogs came from the Onderstepoort area, near Pretoria, Gauteng province, South Africa. Overall prevalence of DEA 1.1 was 47 %. Prevalence was 47 % in purebred dogs and 48 % in mongrels. Distinct breed differences were noted with less than 20 % of German shepherd dogs and Boxers and greater than 75 % of Rottweilers, Great Danes, St Bernards and Dalmations testing DEA 1.1 positive. Knowledge of local breed differences will increase effectiveness of blood donor recruitment.
Induction of photosensitivity in sheep with Erodium moschatum (L.) L'HÃ©rit
Authors: Stroebel J.C.
Published: August 2012

Erodium moschatum is an exotic weed in the southern and southwestern coastal areas of the Western Cape Province (WCP), South Africa. It has been suspected as the cause of photosensitivity in sheep. However, attempts to induce photosensitivity by dosing it to sheep have thus far been unsuccessful. During August 1999, 2 sheep suffering from severe photosensitivity were presented for clinical examination to the Western Cape Provincial Veterinary Laboratory (WCPVL). One sheep was sacrificed for autopsy. Except for skin lesions associated with photosensitivity, no icterus or other lesions were present. Histopathological examination of affected skin revealed epidermal necrosis while the liver had no microscopic lesions. It was therefore concluded that the sheep might have been suffering from primary photosensitivity. The farmfrom which the sheep came, situated in the Malmesbury district, WCP, was visited to determine the source of the photodynamic agent. The flock from which the sheep originated had been grazing in a camp where E. moschatum was growing abundantly and had been heavily grazed. Some remaining Erodium in the camp was collected, pulped and dosed over a period of 7 days to an adult sheep. Another sheep was dosed simultaneously with Erodium growing on the premises of the WCPVL. Both sheep developed mild photosensitivity, which was confirmed by histopathological examination of skin biopsies. It was concluded that E. moschatum can induce photosensitivity (probably the primary type) in sheep if ingested in large quantities.