bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vulvovaginectomy and neo-urethrostomy for the treatment of haemangiosarcoma of the vulva and vagina : case report
Authors: Hill T.P. , Lobetti R.G. , Schulman M.L.
Published: August 2012

Vulvovaginectomy and neo-urethrostomy were performed in a 9-year-old German shepherd dog following a diagnosis of infiltrative vulvar and vestibulovaginal haemangiosarcoma. The dog was presented for intermittent vulvar haemorrhage over a 3-month period. On examination the vulva and vestibulovagina were distended and firm. Vaginal discharge and fine needle aspiration cytology detected anaplastic cells. Haemangiosarcoma was diagnosed on biopsy. A new urethral opening was created in the floor of the vagina allowing resection of the vulva and caudal vestibulovagina. Urinary continence was preserved and healing was without complications.
New distribution records of Amblyomma hebraeum in the sandveld region of Botswana : to the editor
Authors: Musuka G.N. , Mafika M. , Molathwa E. , Nuru H.
Published: August 2012

Briefly reports on the distribution of heartwater disease in the sandveld regions of Botswana west of Mahalapye and Shoshong villages.
Use of the Accusport semi-automated analyser to determine blood lactate as an aid in the clinical assessment of horses with colic
Authors: Schulman M.L. , Nurton J.P. , Guthrie A.J.
Published: August 2012

The most useful diagnostic methods in the initial evaluation of horses with colic assess the morphological and functional status of the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular status. This evaluation is best achieved using a combination of clinical and laboratory data. Blood lactate concentration (BL) is one of these variables. BL rises mainly due to poor tissue perfusion and anaerobic glycolysis associated with shock, providing an indicator of both the severity of disease and its prognosis. A hand-held lactate meter, Accusport, provides a rapid (60 seconds), inexpensive dry-chemical-based determination of BL. This trial evaluated the Accusport's ability to provide BL data as an adjunct to the initial clinical evaluation of horses with colic. The accuracy of the Accusport was tested by evaluation of its interchangeability with the benchmark enzymatic kit evaluation of BL in a trial using data collected firstly from 10 clinically normal control horses and subsequently from 48 horses presented with signs of colic. The BL values were recorded together with the clinical variables of heart rate (HR), capillary refill time (CRT), haematocrit (Hct), and pain character and severity on the initial assessment of the colic horses. Information regarding choice of therapeutic management (medical or surgical) and eventual case outcome (full recovery or died/euthanased) was recorded. The Accusport was found to be interchangeable with the enzymatic kit for recording BL values in colic horses with BL 10 mmol/ , which is within the BL range associated with survival. The interchangeability of an additional, laboratory-based wet chemical assay for BL, the Stat 7 was simultaneously evaluated for the colic and control horses. The Stat 7 was found to be interchangeable with the enzymatic kit for BL determination of colic horses. No linear associations between BL values with HR, CRT, Hct or pain assessment were observed. No relationship with either selection of therapeutic method or eventual case outcome was observed. All horses with BL 8 mmol/ died or were euthanased.
Cervical teratoma in a dog : case report
Authors: Lambrechts N.E. , Pearson J.
Published: August 2012

A young adult boxer dog was examined for a painless swelling in the left cranial cervical area that was refractory to antibiotic therapy. Ultrasound examination revealed a hypoechoic mass abutting the rostrolateral aspect of the left mandibular salivary gland. The cystic mass was excised and was found to extend through the capsule of the salivary gland and appeared to be confluent with the glandular tissue at this point. Histopathological examination of the excised tissue demonstrated tissue from all 3 germinal layers. There was no indication of malignancy and the mass was diagnosed as a benign cervical teratoma. Hypotheses regarding the origin of teratomas in general are discussed and the origin of the teratoma in this case is suggested.
Birth of live calves by in vitro embryo production of slaughtered cows in a commercial herd in South Africa
Authors: Arlotto T. , Gerber D. , Terblanche S.J. , Larsen J.
Published: August 2012

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has become a useful breeding tool in most of the developed world. In this paper the success of bovine IVF and the birth of live calves under typical South African conditions is reported. Oocytes for IVF were collected from the ovaries of 6 slaughtered Bovelder beef cows. On average, 36.2 oocytes per donor were retrieved. From these oocytes, 43 blastocysts were produced from 5 of the donors by IVF with frozen Bovelder semen. The best 11 of these embryos were transferred into oestrous, synchronised Bovelder recipients in the same herd. As a result, 7 calves were born (a 64 %calving rate) from 4 of the original donors. The calves had a normal birth mass, but the mean gestation length of the male calves was significantly longer than the herd average (291.6 versus 285.2 days respectively). No calving difficulties were encountered. In summary, it was shown that IVF for bovine embryo production and transfer is possible on a commercial basis in South Africa.
Anaesthesia of gemsbok (Oryx gazella) with a combination of A3080, medetomidine and ketamine
Authors: Grobler D. , Bush M. , Jessup D. , Lance W.
Published: August 2012

An effective anaesthesia protocol was developed for adult free-ranging gemsbok (Oryx gazella) using a combination of A3080, medetomidine and ketamine. Ashort induction time; good muscle relaxation, adequate oxygenation and stable heart rate and respiration rate characterised this anaesthetic regime. Equal doses of A3080 and medetomidine (22-45 Âµg/kg) plus 200 mg of ketamine were administered to each animal. The anaesthesia was rapidly and completely reversed by intramuscular naltrexone at a dose of X = 0.9 Â± 0.2 mg/kg and atipamezole at a dose XÂ±90 Â±20 Âµg/kg. No mortality or morbidity occurred with this protocol.
Analgesic and cardiopulmonary effects of intrathecally administered romifidine or romifidine and ketamine in goats (Capra hircus)
Authors: Aithal H.P. , Kinjavdekar P. , Pawde A.M. , Pratap K.
Published: August 2012

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of romifidine alone (50 Âµg/kg) and a combination of romifidine (50 Âµg/kg) and ketamine (2.5 mg/kg) after intrathecal administration in goats. Ten adult goats of either sex weighing between 15 and 20 kg were randomly placed in 2 groups (groups I and II). The agents were administered at the lumbosacral subarachnoid space. Clinico-physiological parameters such as analgesia, motor incoordination, sedation, salivation, heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial pressure, central venous pressure and rectal temperature were studied. Other haematobiochemical parameters monitored were packed cell volume, haemoglobin, plasma proteins, glucose, urea and creatinine. The onset of analgesia was faster in group II (35.5 Â±6.25 s) compared to that of group I (5.2 Â±0.54 min). Analgesia of the tail, perineum, hind limbs, flank and thorax was mild to moderate in group I, but complete analgesia of tail, perineum and hind limbs was recorded in group II. Motor incoordination was mild in group I and severe in group II. Significant reduction in heart rate (more pronounced in group I) and respiratory rate (more pronounced in group II), and a significant increase in central venous pressure were recorded in both groups. Mean arterial pressure was reduced in both groups, but more markedly in group I. Sedation, electro-cardiogram, rectal temperature and haemato-biochemical parameters did not show significant differences between the 2 groups. The results of this study indicated a possible synergistic analgesic interaction between intrathecally administered romifidine and ketamine, without causing any marked systemic effects in goats.
Isolation of Haemophilus somnus from dairy cattle in KwaZulu-Natal : an emerging cause of 'dirty cow syndrome' and infertility? : short communication
Authors: Last R.D. , Macfarlane M.D. , Jarvis C.J.
Published: August 2012

Haemophilus somnus was consistently isolated from vaginal discharges of dairy cows submitted from field cases of vaginitis, cervicitis and/or metritis in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands during the period July 1995 - December 2000 and from the East Griqualand area in November/December 2000. The purulent vaginal discharges, red granular vaginitis and cervicitis, and pain on palpation described in these cases was very similar to that reported in outbreaks of H.somnus endometritis syndrome in Australia, Europe and North America. In all the herds involved in these outbreaks, natural breeding with bulls was employed. Although there was a good cure rate in clinically-affected animals treated with tetracyclines, culling rates for chronic infertility were unacceptably high. Employment of artificial insemination in these herds improved pregnancy rates in cows that had calved previously, but many cows that had formerly been infected failed to conceive.
Suspected post-vaccinal acute polyradiculoneuritis in a puppy : short communication
Authors: Gehring R. , Eggars B.
Published: August 2012

A 4-month-old German shepherd puppy developed hindquarter weakness after vaccination with a multivalent vaccine. This is suggestive of post-vaccinal polyradiculoneuritis. To date, only 1 similar case has been reported, which may be due to the under-reporting of suspected adverse drug reactions.
Prevalence of microorganisms associated with udder infections in dairy goats on small-scale farms in Kenya : short communication
Authors: Ndegwa E.N. , Mulei C.M. , Munyua S.J.M.
Published: August 2012

Six hundred and thirty clinically-normal milk samples from dairy goat flocks comprising a mixed population of German Alpine, Toggenburg, Saanen and Galla crosses were exam-ined over a 3-month period to determine the prevalence of bacterial organisms. Bacteria were isolated in 28.7 % of the milk samples (181/630) either singly (92.8 %) or in combination (7.2 %). The most prevalent bacterial organisms were Staphylococcus spp. (60.3 %), followed by Micrococcus spp. (17.7 %), Acinetobacter spp. (5 %), Actinomyces spp. (5%) and Streptococcus spp. (1.1 %). The Staphylococcus spp. were mainly coagulase negative (64.3 %). Coagulase-- negative staphylococci and coagulase-positive staphylococci accounted for 37.5 % and 22.7 % respectively of the total bacteria isolated. The isolation of bacteria, some of which are important in clinical and subclinical mastitis, in apparently normal caprine milk, indicates that particular attention should be given to the management of these dairy goat flocks in order to avoid the development of cases of clinical mastitis.
Suspected adverse reactions to veterinary drugs reported in South Africa (January 1998 - February 2001) : special report
Authors: Gehring R.
Published: August 2012

The Veterinary Pharmacovigilance Centre received 59 reports of suspected adverse drug reactions during the period January 1998 - February 2001. The number of reports received increased after the establishment of a formal procedure for recording and responding to reports. The number of reports received per species was: dogs 19, cats 15, cattle 7, sheep/ goats 6, chickens 4, pigs 3, horses 2 and giraffe 1. Many different types of adverse reactions were reported, including lack of efficacy, hypersensitivity, inappropriate use of products by non-veterinarians, known adverse effects and adverse effects encountered with extra-label use of products.
Canine distemper infections, with special reference to South Africa, with a review of the literature : review article
Authors: Leisewitz A.L. , Carter A. , Van Vuuren M. , Van Blerk L.
Published: August 2012

Canine distemper virus is a member of the genus Morbillivirus of the family Paramyxoviridaethat causes severe disease in dogs and a range of wild mammals. The clinical signs relate essentially to the respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous systems. In South Africa, infection with Ehrlichia canis and canine parvovirus may present similarly. Many dogs will initially present with a wide range of central nervous system signs without any history of systemic disease. A recent South African study evaluating ante mortem diagnosis highlighted the importance of recognising clinical signs, cerebrospinal fluid IgG titres, serum IgM titres and immunocytochemistry of epithelial tissue. A 2-year retrospective evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid samples collected from dogs presented to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital indicates that distemper infection is common, and this disease should routinely be suspected in cases of diverse neurological disease in dogs. The South African dog population is specifically at high risk for the disease because of the large pool of unvaccinated, reproductively-active dogs that expose the wildlife resources of the country to risk of fatal disease. Outbreaks of disease in dogs continue to occur in developed and developing communities in both vaccinated and unvaccinated dogs worldwide, and have also been described in a wide range of free-ranging wildlife, including seals, dolphins and lions, and in endangered zoo animals. Modified live virus vaccines have contributed markedly to disease control in the dog population but have caused mortality in some wild carnivores. New recombinant vaccines are being developed that will be safe in wild animals. The pathogenesis of CNS demyelination has been compared to various important demyelinating diseases in humans and, amongst other things, relates to down-regulation of the oligodendrocyte gene coding for myelin synthesis and non-immunocyte CNS cell expression of type II major histocompatibility receptors. Early CNS lesions are characterised by demyelination and later lesions by perivascular round cell cuffing. Treatment is supportive.
Influence of sheep breed and application site on the efficacy of a flumethrin pour-on formulation against ticks
Authors: Fourie L.J. , Kok D.J. , Peter R.J.
Published: August 2012

The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of application site and sheep breed on the efficacy of a flumethrin (1 % m/v) solution for the control of 'bont'-legged (Hyalomma spp.) and red-legged ticks (Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi). This study was conducted from November 1996 to February 1997 on 3 farms in the southwestern Free State Province. Two trials were conducted on Dorper sheep and 2 on Merino sheep. For each specific application 30 sheep were selected and allocated to 3 groups of 10 animals each using randomisation through minimisation, with pre-treatment total tick count as only criterion. Groups consisted of an untreated control group, a group treated with 3 m of a flumethrin (1 % m/v) solution applied only to the anogenital region, and a group treated at a dose rate of 1 m flumethrin (1% m/v)/5 kg host body mass. The total dose volume for animals in the last group was divided into 3 equal parts and applied to the brisket/axillae, groin and anogenital regions respectively. Animals grazed under extensive farming conditions and were infested by ticks that occurred naturally in the environment. Ticks were counted and removed weekly over a 6-week period. In all 4 trials, Rhipicephalus e. evertsi was the dominant tick species, followed, in 3 of the trials, by Hyalomma spp. Efficacy (%) of control against ticks for Dorper sheep, treated only on the anogenital region, was variable, ranging between 29.5 and 97 %. In Merino sheep the efficacy values ranged between 23.1 and 90 %. The site-spcific (anogenital region) efficacy of control against ticks infesting Merino sheep was in general 100 % or almost 100 %. In Dorper sheep the efficacy values were 80 % for 3-5 weeks. The efficacy (%) of control against ticks for sheep treated on the brisket/axillae, groin and anogenital regions was always higher compared to sheep treated only on the anogenital region. In Dorper sheep, efficacy of control was 80 % for up to 4 weeks and in Merino sheep 80 % for 6 weeks.
The role of parasitic diseases as causes of mortality in small ruminants in a high-potential farming area in central Kenya
Authors: Kagira J. , Kanyari P.W.N.
Published: August 2012

A 15-year retrospective study was performed to determine the role of parasitic diseases in causing mortalities in small ruminants. In total, 115 (32 %) sheep were diagnosed as having been killed by parasitic diseases out of 366 that died as a result of disease. The major cause of mortality was helminthosis (63 %of all parasitic cases). Most of the helminthosis cases were attributed to haemonchosis (40 % of parasitic cases). Heartwater was the second most important parasitic disease (27 %of all parasitic cases). Ninety-five (26 %) goats were diagnosed to have been killed by parasitic diseases out of 365 cases presented at the post mortem facility. Helminthosis was the most frequent cause of mortality (55 % of the total parasitic diseases). Twenty-six goats were killed by haemonchosis (27 % of all parasitic diseases). Heartwater was the second most important parasitic disease, accounting for about 20 % of all parasitic diseases. These findings indicate that viable helminth and tick control strategies should be devised in order to reduce mortality caused by helminthosis and heartwater and thereby achieve improved productivity.
Student perceptions of problem topics / concepts in a traditional veterinary anatomy course
Authors: Soley J.T. , Kramer B.
Published: August 2012

While particular attention is paid to the nature and content of anatomy curricula, little has been published about the actual problem topics/concepts experienced by students of anatomy. This information is relevant to modifying existing courses and methods of teaching. The present study thus sought to identify, by means of a questionnaire administered to students of veterinary anatomy, perceived problem topics, the possible reasons for the problems, as well as student suggestions for solving the problems. Awide range of problem topics was identified by this survey, of which neuroanatomy, neurohistology and organogenesis recurred most frequently. A major reason given for the problems experienced was an inability to conceptualise 3- dimensional structures. Students requested more time, more lectures and appealed for a reduction in detail of textual information. Many of the problems experienced by this group of students are reflected in other studies of veterinary, medical and dental students, which suggests the existence of 'universal' problem topics in the various fields of anatomy. We believe that these universal problem topics exist in many anatomy courses, despite the application of innovative teaching methods and advanced audio-visual technologies. Only by identifying these topics can suitable strategies (within the constraints of the particular curriculum) be devised to resolve them.
A case of caprine perineal squamous cell carcinoma in Botswana : case report
Authors: Baipoledi E.K.
Published: August 2012

Squamous cell carcinoma of the perineal region of goats is described for the first time in Botswana. The tumour was irregularly shaped, cauliflower-like and ulcerated. The exposed surface had an unpleasant smell and was covered by a black keratinous exudate. Histopathologically the lesions were compatible with previous descriptions.
28th annual scientific meeting : Parasitological Society of Southern Africa : conference abstracts
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Abstracts of posters and invited papers presented at the 28th Annual Scientific Meeting - Parasitological Challenges 2000 and Beyond - 27-29 September 2000, University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
Use of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants in cattle by Setswana-speaking people in the Madikwe area of the North West Province of South Africa
Authors: Van der Merwe D. , Swan G.E. , Botha C.J.
Published: August 2012

Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) methods were employed to document the use of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants in cattle by Setswana-speaking people in the Madikwe area of the North West Province of South Africa. The study indicated that Setswana-speaking people in the North West Province have a rich heritage of ethnoveterinary knowledge, which includes all aspects of ethnoveterinary medicinal plant use. Information was gathered from informants through individual interviews, group interviews, guided field walks and observations. Ethnoveterinary uses in cattle of 45 plant species representing 24 families were recorded. Plants were used in 84 % of the total number of recorded ethnoveterinary remedies. These plants were used alone (64 %) or in mixtures (36 %) for 29 indications. The most important indications were retained placenta, diarrhoea, gallsickness, fractures, eye inflammation, general ailments, fertility enhancement, general gastrointestinal problems, heartwater, internal parasites, coughing, redwater and reduction of tick burden. Plant materials were prepared in various ways including infusion, decoction, ground fresh material, sap expressed from fresh material, charred and dried. The most common dosage formwas a liquid for oral dosing. Other dosage forms included drops, licks, ointments, lotions and powders. Liquid remedies for oral dosing were always administered using a bottle. Medicinal plant material was preferably stored in a dried form in a cool place out of direct sunlight and wind. Lack of transfer of ethnoveterinary knowledge to younger generations puts this knowledge at risk. RRA was found to be a successful method of investigation for the study of ethnoveterinary medicine.
Factors related to high levels of ostrich chick mortality from hatching to 90 days of age in an intensive rearing system
Authors: Cloete S.W.P. , Lambrechts H. , Punt K. , Brand Z.
Published: August 2012

Ostrich chick mortality was studied in 2522 chicks that were hatched artificially during the 1999/2000 breeding season. High levels of mortality were observed, with 1978 (78.4 %) of these chicks dying before 90 days after hatching. Atotal of 46.7 %(1177) of these chicks died before 28 days of age, and a further 30.7 %(801) died between 28 and 90 days post-hatching. Chick mortality to 28 days of age could not be conclusively related to sex, day of external pipping or breeder diet. Mortality rates were higher (P 0.05) at the beginning and end of the breeding season than in the middle months. Differences in mortality levels of chicks incubated in different incubators could be related to the time of the breeding season during which the incubator was mostly used. The regression of chick mortality to 28 days of age on day-old chick mass followed a 2nd-degree polynomial. Chicks with day-old masses below 762.5 g were particularly at risk of dying before 28 days after hatching. Chicks hatching from eggs where excessive water loss to 35 days of incubation (18 %) was recorded were also at risk of succumbing before 28 days of age. Chick mortality percentages for the period from 28 to 90 days of age exceeded 80 %in chicks weighing an average of 1050 g at 28 days. Mortaliy percentages declined sharply at higher live masses, to between 20 and 30 % in chicks weighing ?1950 g. This 'core' level of mortality remained throughout, even in the heaviest chicks. It was concluded that the high levels of chick mortality could be related to stress in chicks, resulting from an inability to adapt to the rearing environment. The high subsequent mortality percentages of low live mass chicks that survived to 28 days after hatching could probably be attributed to residual setbacks suffered earlier. Abetter understanding of the underlying principles involved in ostrich chick mortality in intensive rearing environments is required for progress in this field, resulting in more predictable survival rates under these conditions.
Veterinary needs of dogs in two resource-limited communities in the Gauteng and North West provinces of South Africa
Authors: Minnaar W.N. , Krecek R.C.
Published: August 2012

Information on the socioeconomic aspects and the health status of dogs in 2 resource-limited communities in the North West and Gauteng provinces of South Africa was gathered using semi-structured interviews and a standardised questionnaire. The dogs were examined clinically to determine their health status, and their body condition and age were scored. Most of the dogs (93 % in Jericho and 90 % in Zuurbekom) were infected with hookworm, which poses a threat to animal and human health in the 2 study areas. Many dogs were also being given a protein-deficient diet, which together with hookworm parasites would impact considerably on the dog's health. Dogs were mainly kept for security reasons. The need indicated to be most important by the residents of the 2 commnities was a lack of available and affordable veterinary services.
Some clinical effects of midazolam premedication in propofol-induced and isoflurane-maintained anaesthesia in dogs during ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Stegmann G.F. , Bester L.
Published: August 2012

In a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial, anaesthesia was induced with propofol (4 mg/kg) after intravenous premedication with or without midazolam (0.1 mg/kg), in a group of 8 dogs scheduled for ovariohysterectomy. Midazolam administration induced acute behavioural changes, and increased reflex suppression after propofol induction. Compared to the control group, the dose required to obtain loss of the pedal reflex was significantly reduced by 37%, and the end-tidal isoflurane concentration during mainte-nance, reduced by 23 %.
The resurgence of trypanosomosis in Botswana : short communication
Authors: Sharma S.P. , Losho T.C. , Malau M. , Mangate K.G. , Linchwe K.B. , Amanfu W. , Motsu T.K.
Published: August 2012

No sleeping sickness or nagana cases have been reported in Botswana since 1985. In view of several confirmed clinical cases of nagana and reports of heavy bovine mortality, a parasitological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence of trypanosome infection in cattle in Maun and Shakawe areas of Ngamiland district. Wet blood films, buffy coat and Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood smears were used to detect trypanosomes in animals. Overall,trypanosome infection rate was 15.98%, with 5.94% and 27.29% in Maun and Shakawe respectively. The urgent need to combat trypanosomosis in Ngamiland, particularly in the Shakawe area, is highlighted, and a 3-phase integrated tsetse control strategy for this disease problem is discussed.
Genetic parameters for resistance to Haemonchus contortus in Merino sheep in South Africa
Authors: Nieuwoudt S.W. , Theron H.E. , Kruger L.P.
Published: August 2012

Resistance to natural infections of Haemonchus contortus (wireworm) was studied in Merino sheep. From February 1995 to July 1996 data were collected from the OTK Merino Stud on the farm Wildebeesfontein near Hendrina in Mpumalanga province. From March 1998 to January 2000 another Merino flock at Irene in Gauteng province was included in the study. In both cases, 50 randomly-chosen animals from each group of lambs weaned were sampled weekly for faecal egg count (FEC) until a mean of 2500 eggs per gram faeces (epg) was reached. At this stage, all lambs in the group were sampled for FEC, packed cell volume (PCV) and live mass in the case of the Wildebeesfontein flock. Animals were monitored from weaning to about 1 year of age. Data from 5 different groups of lambs (583 animals and 1722 records in total) with genetic links were accumulated and analysed. Variance components and resulting heritabilities for logFEC and PCV were estimated using a bivariate animal model with repeated records. The estimated heritabilities were 0.24 Â± 0.02 for logFEC and 0.14 Â± 0.02 for PCV. A strong negative correlation (-0.84 Â± 0.06) existed between the 2 traits. The genetic correlation between PCV and live mass for the Wildebeesfontein flock was low (0.28 Â±0.09), while that between logFEC and live mass was negative, although not significantly different from zero (-0.13 Â± 0.09). These results suggest that FEC can be used as a selection criterion for resistance to H. contortus infections in Merino sheep.
Morphological and histochemical observations of the organic components of ostrich eggshell
Authors: Richards P.D.G. , Botha A. , Richards P.A.
Published: August 2012

The organic component of the avian eggshell can be divided into 3 portions, the shell membranes, the matrix and the cuticle. These have been well characterised in the chicken but little has been published with regard to the ostrich (Struthio camelus). A number of recent studies have indicated that the cause of intra-shell embryonic deaths in the ostrich is similar to intra-shell embryonic deaths that occur in the chicken. These deaths in the chicken are associated with the loss of or damage to the waxy cuticle and other organic components of the eggshell, which is reported to be absent in the ostrich eggshell. In this study, preliminary morphological and histochemical analyses, at the level of the light and electron microscope, have characterised the various organic components of the ostrich eggshell. The results of the histochemical and electron microscopical analyses suggest that there mayonly be 1 shell membrane in this species, which could play a major role in the limitation of bacterial penetration to the embryonic chamber. The shell membrane has a distinct elemental profile as determined by EDSanalysis. The matrix is shown to decrease in mesh size from the mammillary layer to the vertical crystal layer. The closer packing of the mesh may indicate the presence of a morphologically discernible termination signal to calcification or the remnants of an evolutionary calcified cuticle. The matrix of the pores may also forma defensive barrier against bacterial invasion, which could be damaged as a result of dipping the eggs before incubation.
Neosporosis in a white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) calf
Authors: Williams J.H. , Espie I. , Van Wilpe E. , Matthee A.
Published: August 2012

A16-day-old white rhinoceros calf died suddenly while in excellent condition and showing no obvious previous clinical signs. It was the 9th calf of a mature female kept free-ranging with 11 other rhinoceros as well as various other game species on a 2000 hectare game breeding centre adjacent to the town of Lichtenburg and outlying cattle farmlands in the Northern Province. At post mortem examination, death was ascribed to heart failure. There was marked multifocal to coalescing subacute parasitic myocarditis with numerous proto-zoan bradyzoite cysts and free tachyzoites present amongst the predominantly round cell inflammatory infiltrate. The coccidian was positively identified as Neospora sp. using both polyclonal and murine monoclonal Neospora caninum antibody immunohistochemistry in the avidin-biotin technique. The parasites stained poorly with Toxoplasma gondii-specific immunoperoxidase staining. Ultrastructurally, a section of a bradyzoite-containing cyst, as well as tachyzoites, were largely but not totally consistent with those described for Neospora caninum. The dam showed no sign of illness. Neosporosis affecting white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) has not previously been reported. A summarised overview of neosporosis from selected publications and a recent review is given.
Cytomegalovirus infection in a pig in South Africa
Authors: Collett M.G. , Roberts D.C.
Published: August 2012

An 8-week-old piglet with dyspnoea, bilateral mucopurulent nasal discharge and mouth breathing was euthanased and a necropsy was performed. Apart from histological evidence of diffuse rhinitis, large intranuclear inclusion bodies, pathognomonic for porcine cytomegalovirus infection, were detected within mucous glands on the nasal turbinates. This is the first such case to be diagnosed in South Africa.
The use of liposomal amphotericin B in the management of Xylohypha bantiana mycosis in a dog
Authors: Leisewitz A.L. , Rademeyer C. , Picard J.
Published: August 2012

Xylohypha bantiana is a rare neurotropic fungal infection reported in humans, dogs and cats. In dogs it has only been identified on post mortem examination and thus no successful treatments have previously been reported. Amphotericin B is a potent antifungal drug with a low therapeutic index because of its nephrotoxicity. Liposomal encapsulation of the drug has resulted in much safer use in humans. This article reports a case of Xylohypha bantiana infection in a dog that was diagnosed antemortally and managed with liposomal amphotericin B, which resulted in the prolongation of quality of life for an infection that invariably results in rapid death.
A severe case of contagious ecthyma in Tswana goats
Authors: Baipoledi E.K. , Nyange J.F.C. , Hyera J.M.K.
Published: August 2012

The first severe case of caprine contagious ecthyma (parapox) in Tswana goats is described from Botswana. Affected animals were indigenous adult Tswana goats. The case involved a flock of 12 goats of which 4 (33.3 %) were very severely affected but none died. The lesions were confined to the head and included swollen lips, swollen submandibular lymph nodes, gingivitis, glossitis, ulceration on lip and gum mucosae and scab formation on ulcerated areas. No lesions were found on other parts of the body. This case was clinically indistinguishable from bluetongue.
Plant poisonings and mycotoxicoses of importance in horses in southern Africa : review article
Authors: Botha C.J. , Naude T.W.
Published: August 2012

Well-known plant poisonings such as 'dunsiekte' (seneciosis) and 'jaagsiekte' (crotalariosis) of horses in southern Africa are briefly reviewed. Relatively unfamiliar mycotoxicoses such as stachybotryotoxicosis and perennial rye grass staggers and potentially occurring exotic intoxications such as equine nigropallidal encephalomalacia and ergot alkaloid poisoning are also discussed. This article is aimed at informing the southern African equine practitioner about probable poisonings that might occur locally in horses.
Ixodid ticks on cattle belonging to small-scale farmers at 4 communal grazing areas in South Africa
Authors: Bryson N.R. , Tice G.A. , Horak I.G. , Stewart C.G. , Du Plessis B.J.A.
Published: August 2012

Ixodid ticks were collected during the period September 1991 to August 1993 from cattle belonging to small-scale farmers utilising 4 communal grazing areas. Three of these were in North West Province and 1 in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. Ten tick species were collected in North West Province and 7 in Mpumalanga. The adults of Amblyomma hebraeum, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi were most numerous in North West Province, while in Mpumalanga Boophilus decoloratus comprised more than 75% of the total population. Amblyomma hebraeum was present on all grazing areas, and heavy infestations of adults occurred during the period October to May on 1 of these. Few B. decoloratus were collected in North West Province, chiefly because the sampling method was inadequate, and most of these were present during early summer (October to December) and late summer and autumn (March to May). The initially low population of B. decoloratus in Mpumalanga increased substantially towards the conclusion of the survey, probably because of the cessation of dipping. Boophilus microplus was present in small numbers on 2 grazing areas in the North West Province. Adult Hyalomma marginatum rufipes reached peak numbers from December to February and Hyalomma truncatum from February to April in the North West Province. Only H. marginatum rufipes was collected in Mpumalanga. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus was present on all the grazing areas, with most adults present from December to April. Most adult Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi were collected from September to April and Rhipicephalus simus was present during the period October-April.
The cardiovascular and respiratory effects of medetomidine and thiopentone anaesthesia in dogs breathing at an altitude of 1486 m
Authors: Joubert K. E. , Lobetti R.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cardio-respiratory effects of the combination of medetomidine and thiopentone followed by reversal with atipamezole as a combination for anaesthesia in 10 healthy German Shepherd dogs breathing spontaneously in a room at an altitude of 1486 m above sea level with an ambient air pressure of 651 mmHg. After the placement of intravenous and intra-arterial catheters, baseline samples were collected. Medetomidine (0.010 mg/kg) was administered intravenously and blood pressure and heart rate were recorded every minute for 5 minutes. Thiopentone was then slowly administered until intubation conditions were ideal. An endotracheal tube was placed and the dogs breathed room air spontaneously. Blood pressure, pulse oximetry, respiratory and heart rate, capnography, blood gas analysis and arterial lactate were performed or recorded every 10 minutes for the duration of the trial. Thiopentone was administered to maintain anaesthesia. After 60 minutes, atipamezole (0.025 mg/kg) was given intramuscularly. Data were recorded for the next 30 minutes. A dose of 8.7 mg/kg of thiopentone was required to anaesthetise the dogs after the administration of 0.010 mg/kg of medetomidine. Heart rate decreased from 96.7 at baseline to 38.5 5 minutes after the administration of medetomidine (P 0.05). Heart rate then increased with the administration of thiopentone to 103.2 (P 0.05). Blood pressure increased from 169.4/86.2 mmHg to 253.2/143.0 mmHg 5 minutes after the administration of medetomidine (P 0.05). Blood pressure then slowly returned towards normal. Heart rate and blood pressure returned to baseline values after the administration of atipamezole. Arterial oxygen tension decreased from baseline levels (84.1 mmHg) to 57.8 mmHg after the administration of medetomidine and thiopentone (P 0.05). This was accompanied by arterial desaturation from 94.7 to 79.7 % (P 0.05). A decrease in respiratory rate from 71.8 bpm to 12.2 bpm was seen during the same period. Respiratory rates slowly increased over the next hour to 27.0 bpm and a further increases 51.4 bpm after the administration of atipamezole was seen (P 0.05). This was maintained until the end of the observation period. Arterial oxygen tension slowly returned towards normal over the observation period. No significant changes in blood lactate were seen. No correlation was found between arterial saturation as determined by blood gas analysis and pulse oximetry. Recovery after the administration of atipamezole was rapid (5.9 minutes). In healthy dogs, anaesthesia can be maintained with a combination of medetomidine and thiopentone, significant anaesthetic sparing effects have been noted and recovery from anaesthesia is not unduly delayed. Hypoxaemia may be problematic. Appropriate monitoring should be done and oxygen supplementation and ventilatory support should be available. A poor correlation between SpO2 and SaO2 and ETCO2 and PaCO2 was found.
The effect of storage conditions on samples for the evaluation of copper status in blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi)
Authors: Quan M. , Mulders M.S. , Meltzer D.G.A.
Published: August 2012

Investigaltions to determine the effect of sample storage on the concentration of copper in liver tissue and on the activity of erythrocyte superoxide dismutase were undertaken in preparation for a study of blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi) that were suspected to be suffering from copper deficiency. Two liver samples were collected from each of 20 culled blesbok in a manner that simulated the collection of biopsies from the live animal. These samples were stored either in 10 % formalin or frozen at -20 Â°C until analysed 4 1/2 months later. The effect of different methods of sample storage on superoxide dismutase activity was determined. Erythrocytes collected from 3 Jersey cows and 5 culled blesbok were washed and divided into 0.5m portions, stored at room temperature (~20 Â°C), in a refrigerator (4 Â°C), frozen at -20 Â°C in a freezer, and in liquid nitrogen (-200 Â°C). An analysis of superoxide dismutase activity was undertaken using a commercial assay kit at intervals of 2-4 days until the levels of activity had fallen significantly. The copper concentration in formalin-preserved liver samples was significantly lower than that measured in frozen liver tissue apparently as a result of leaching. The activity of superoxide dismutase in cattle blood was unchanged for 4 days at room temperature but fell appreciably after 2 days at 4 Â°C and -20 Â°C. Enzyme activity remained unchanged for 200 days in erythrocytes stored in liquid nitrogen. Superoxide dismutase activity levels in healthy blesbok were considerably lower than those measured in Jersey cows and remained unaffected for up to 6 days in samples stored at 4 Â°C and 20 Â°C. The level of activity fell significantly thereafter. Samples stored in liquid nitrogen were unchanged after 40 days.
A comparison of the surgical caseloads of selected companion animal hospitals and a veterinary academic hospital in South Africa
Authors: Van Niekerk L.J. , Verstraete F.J.M. , Odendaal J.S.J.
Published: August 2012

Educational institutions should be aware of the frequency of surgical procedures in private practice, to assist both the student and the lecturer in evaluating the relative importance of procedures and to structure training programmes accordingly. The surgical caseload for 1 year at a veterinary academic hospital and 13 private companion animal hospitals registered with the South African Veterinary Council were compared. Surgical records were entered into a spreadsheet and sorted according to 96 selected surgical procedures to facilitate comparisons. Surgical procedures were in turn grouped according to date, species, degree of difficulty and frequency of occurrence. Feline procedures were more commonly performed in private hospitals. The academic hospital's caseload was dominated by major and advanced procedures while the private hospitals carried out more minor procedures. At the private hospitals more general surgery, and ear, nose and throat surgery aswell as dental procedures were performed, while at the academic hospital more ophthalmic, orthopaedic, thoracic and neurosurgical procedures were carried out. The most commonly performed procedures at the academic hospital differed from those at the private hospitals. No seasonal trends were evident.
Haemonchus spp. in sheep farmed under resource-poor conditions in South Africa - effect on haematocrit, conjunctival mucous membrane colour and body condition
Authors: Vatta A.F. , Krecek R.C. , Van der Linde M.J. , Motswatswe P.W. , Grimbeek R.J. , Van Wijk E.F. , Hansen J.W.
Published: August 2012

A longitudinal study was conducted on the differential faecal egg counts, haematocrits and body condition scores of sheep belonging to resource-poor farmers at Rust de Winter, Gauteng province, and Kraaipan, North West Province, South Africa. The animals were scored for level of anaemia using the FAMACHA(c) method, an assay for the clinical evaluation of anaemia caused by Haemonchus spp. Periods of higher Haemonchus egg counts occurred from October to March for sheep at Rust de Winter and from September/October to February or April for sheep at Kraaipan. Lower haematocrit values were registered during these periods as was a higher incidence of anaemic conjunctival mucous membrane colour scores compared to the period April to September. No clear relationship between the faecal egg counts and the body condition scores was evident. Although wider application of the FAMACHA(c) system in sheep raised by resource-poor farmers should be investigated, the present study indicates that this method may certainly prove to be a valuable worm control strategy for such livestock owners.
Canine filariosis caused by Dirofilaria immitis in Mozambique : a small survey based on the identification of microfilariae : research communication
Authors: Schwan E.V. , Durand D.T.
Published: August 2012

Dirofilaria immitis was diagnosed in 4 of 13 indigenous dogs from the Province of ZambÃ©zia, Mozambique, by acid phosphatase staining of microfilariae. The finding reconfirms the occurrence of the parasite in Mozambique after 3 decades and emphasises the need for extensive surveys. Additionally, in 1 of the infected dogs, microfilariae of Dipetalonema reconditum were detected, which is the 1st record of this parasite in Mozambique.
The rate of spread of sheep scab within small groups of Merino and Dorper sheep : short communication
Authors: Meintjies T. , Fourie L.J. , Horak I.G.
Published: August 2012

A single Merino sheep, artificially infested with the sheep scab mite, Psoroptes ovis, and a similarly infested Dorper sheep were placed with 9 uninfested Merino or 9 uninfested Dorper sheep respectively during winter and the rate of spread of infestation on the uninfested sheep observed. The same procedure was repeated in summer. It took 14 and 8 weeks respectively in winter before all sheep in the 2 groups displayed lesions of sheep scab, whereas in summer it took 10 and 12 weeks before all sheep had lesions.
Raising livestock in resource-poor communities of the North West Province of South Africa - a participatory rural appraisal study
Authors: Getchell J.K. , Vatta A.F. , Motswatswe P.W. , Krecek R.C. , Moerane R. , Pell A.N. , Tucker T.W. , Leshomo S.
Published: August 2012

A participatory research model was used in six village communities in the Central Region of the North West Province of South Africa in order to achieve the following broad objectives : to obtain information on the challenges owners face in raising livestock in these areas and to evaluate the livestock owners' level of knowledge of internal parasites in their animals. Information obtained at participatory workshops clearly indicated a need for improvements in water supply, schools, job creation, and health services. Lack of pasture for grazing livestock was also cited as being important. Other most frequently mentioned livestock problems included 'gall sickness' (a vaguely defined condition not necessarily referring to anaplasmosis), parasites (both external and internal), chicken diseases and ingestion of plastic bags discarded in the environment. When livestock owners were questioned during individual interviews, most were able to identify the presence of parasites in either the live or dead animal. However, it seems likely that this is limited to the identification of tapeworms. It was found that most livestock owners use a combination of treatments, ranging from traditional to folklore to commercial. There were some difficulties in using the participatory methods since it was the first time that the facilitators and the communities had been exposed to them. Many communities had difficulty in dealing with the concept of finding solutions within the community, which is such an integral part of participatory methods.
Supply of veterinary medicinal products to an emerging farming community in the North West Province of South Africa
Authors: Gehring G. , Swan G.E. , Sykes R.D.
Published: August 2012

A study was conducted in the Madikwe District of the North West Province to investigate the supply of veterinary medicinal products to small-scale, subsistence and emerging farmers. A combination of individual interviews, focus groups and direct observation was used to collect data. Stock remedies were made available to farmers within the district at Field Service Units that were managed by administrative staff of the Directorate of Field Services. The state veterinarian and animal health technicians were not directly involved with the sale of products. Most farmers still travelled to farmers' cooperatives in the larger centres outside the district to purchase the veterinary medicinal products they needed. Factors such as the quality of service provided, affordability and availability of required products as well as inaccessibility of outlets to all farmers contributed to the poor support of these outlets by the farmers of the district.