bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiopulmonary effects and induction and recovery characteristics of isoflurane and sevoflurane in foals
Authors: Read Matt R. , Read Emma K. , Duke Tanya , Wilson David G.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare induction and recovery characteristics and cardiopulmonary effects of isoflurane and sevoflurane in foals.

Design—Prospective crossover study.

Animals—6 healthy foals.

Procedure—Foals were anesthetized twice (once at 1 month of age and again at 3 months of age). Anesthesia was induced by administration of the agent in oxygen through a nasotracheal tube. During maintenance of anesthesia, foals were positioned in dorsal recumbency; intermittent positive-pressure ventilation was performed. Characteristics of induction and recovery were recorded. Cardiopulmonary variables were recorded 10 minutes after anesthetic induction and 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes later.

Results—All 6 foals were successfully anesthetized with isoflurane and sevoflurane. There were no significant differences between the 2 drugs in regard to characteristics of induction or recovery, and induction and recovery were generally smooth and unremarkable. There were no significant differences between drugs in regard to measured cardiopulmonary variables; however, both drugs caused initial hypotension that resolved over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that isoflurane and sevoflurane can both be used for general anesthesia of 1- to 3-month-old foals. Significant differences between the 2 agents were not detected for any of the variables measured, suggesting that quality of anesthesia with these 2 agents was comparable. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221: 393–398)
Evaluation of antithyroglobulin antibodies after routine vaccination in pet and research dogs
Authors: Scott-Moncrieff J. Catharine , Azcona-Olivera Juan , Glickman Nita W. , Glickman Lawrence T. , HogenEsch Harm
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether routine vaccination induces antibodies against bovine thyroglobulin and autoantibodies against canine thyroglobulin in dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—20 healthy research Beagles and 16 healthy pet dogs.

Procedure—For the research Beagles, 5 dogs were vaccinated with a multivalent vaccine and a rabies vaccine, 5 dogs received only the multivalent vaccine, 5 dogs received only the rabies vaccine, and 5 dogs were unvaccinated controls. The multivalent vaccine was administered at 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 26, and 52 weeks of age and every 6 months thereafter. The rabies vaccine was administered at 16 and 52 weeks of age and then once per year. Blood was collected from all dogs at 8, 16, and 26 weeks of age and then 4 times yearly. Assays for antibodies directed against bovine and canine thyroglobulin were performed prior to and 2 weeks after each yearly vaccination. For the pet dogs, blood was collected prior to and 2 weeks after 1 vaccination.

Results—In the research Beagles, there was a significant increase in anti-bovine thyroglobulin antibodies in all vaccinated dogs, compared with control dogs. There was a significant increase in anti-canine thyroglobulin antibodies in the 2 groups of dogs that received the rabies vaccine but not in the group that received the multivalent vaccine alone. In the pet dogs, there was a significant increase in anti-canine thyroglobulin antibodies after vaccination but no significant change in anti-bovine thyroglobulin antibodies.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Recent vaccination may result in increased anti-canine thyroglobulin antibodies. Whether these antibodies have a deleterious effect on canine thyroid function is unknown. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:515–521)
Results of preemptive epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine in dogs and cats undergoing surgery: 265 cases (1997–1999)
Authors: Troncy Eric , Junot Stéphane , Keroack Stéphanie , Sammut Véronique , Pibarot Philippe , Genevois Jean-Pierre , Cuvelliez Sophie
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine prevalence of adverse effects associated with epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine in dogs and cats undergoing surgery and evaluate effects of epidural administration of morphine on postoperative pain severity.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—242 dogs and 23 cats.

Procedure—Morphine with or without bupivacaine was administered prior to surgery with a Tuohy needle, spinal needle, or epidural catheter. In 18 dogs that underwent surgery twice, results of preemptive epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine were compared with results of systemic administration of oxymorphone and ketoprofen.

Results—The delivered fraction of isoflurane was significantly lower in animals given morphine and bupivacaine than in animals given morphine alone. Analgesia was of significantly longer duration in dogs given morphine and bupivacaine than in dogs given morphine alone. During anesthesia, mild respiratory and cardiovascular depression was reported. Seven dogs and 2 cats had urine retention, and 2 dogs developed pruritus. Six dogs vomited when a second dose of morphine was given epidurally the day after surgery. Eight of 72 dogs had delayed hair growth. In 18 dogs that underwent surgery twice, the delivered fraction of isoflurane was significantly lower and the duration of analgesia was significantly longer when morphine with or without bupivacaine was given epidurally than when oxymorphone and ketoprofen were given.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that preemptive epidural administration of morphine with or without bupivacaine is a safe and effective method of inducing long-lasting analgesia in dogs and cats and is superior to standard management of postoperative pain with repeated injection of oxymorphone and ketoprofen. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:666–672)
Evaluation of 5 serologic assays to detect Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals
Authors: Martens Ronald J. , Cohen Noah D. , Chaffin M. Keith , Takai Shinji , Doherty Charity L. , Angulo Arthur B. , Edwards Ronnie F.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the sensitivity and specificity of 5 serologic assays used to diagnoseRhodococcus equipneumonia in foals and to determine whether any of the assays could be used to identify affected foals prior to the onset of clinical signs or to differentiate between affected and unaffected foals when clinical signs first become apparent.

Design—Nested case-control study.

Animals—26 foals.

Procedure—Serum samples were obtained from all foals at 2, 4, and 6 or 7 weeks of age. Additional samples were obtained from affected foals at the time of diagnosis ofR equipneumonia and from agematched unaffected foals. Samples were tested with 3 ELISA, an agar gel immunodiffusion assay, and a synergistic hemolysis inhibition assay.

Results—Sensitivity and specificity data indicated that none of the assays could be used to reliably differentiate affected from unaffected foals at any testing period. Proportions of foals that had an increase in test values between paired samples collected at 4 and 6 or 7 weeks of age were not significantly different between affected and unaffected foals. For all assays, result values increased significantly over time; however, the rate of increase was not significantly different between affected and unaffected foals.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that serologic assays, whether performed on single or paired samples, cannot be used to reliably establish, confirm, or exclude a diagnosis of R equi pneumonia in foals. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:825–833)
Use of thoracoscopy to determine the etiology of pleural effusion in dogs and cats: 18 cases (1998–2001)
Authors: Kovak Janet R. , Ludwig Lori L. , Bergman Philip J. , Baer Keith E. , Noone Kathleen E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To assess use of thoracoscopy to determine causes of pleural effusion in dogs and cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—15 dogs and 3 cats with pleural effusion.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed from 1998 to 2001 for dogs and cats that had exploratory thoracoscopy, biopsy, and histologic analysis to determine the etiology of pleural effusion. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. Surgical biopsy specimens were evaluated for quantity and quality for providing a histologic diagnosis.

Results—Biopsy specimens were deemed adequate in quantity and quality to render a histologic diagnosis in all animals. Etiology of the effusion was neoplasia in 8 animals and non-neoplastic pleuritis in 10 animals. Median survival time of animals with neoplasia was 15 days, whereas those with inflammatory diseases had median survival time of > 785 days. Postoperative pneumothorax was encountered in 2 animals subsequent to pulmonary biopsy. No other major complications were recorded.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Thoracoscopy is a diagnostic option that provides excellent viewing of intrathoracic structures and adequate biopsy specimens with minimal complications. This technique provides a less invasive alternative to thoracotomy for evaluating the etiology of pleural effusion. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:990–994)
Influence of vestibulovaginal stenosis, pelvic bladder, and recessed vulva on response to treatment for clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease in dogs: 38 cases (1990-1999)
Authors: Crawford Jason T. , Adams William M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine influence of vestibulovaginal stenosis, pelvic" bladder, and recessed vulva on response to treatment for clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease in dogs.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—38 spayed female dogs.

Procedure—Medical records and client follow-up were reviewed for dogs evaluated via excretory urography because of clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease. Clinical signs, results of radiography, and response to surgical or medical treatment were analyzed.

Results—Clinical signs included urinary tract infection (n = 24). urinary incontinence (201, vaginitis (11). pollakiuna or stranguria (10), and perivuivar dermatitis (4). Vaginocystourethrographic findings included vestibulovaginal stenosis (n = 28), pelvic bladder (17). and ureteritis or pyeionephritis (4). Ten dogs had a vestibulovaginal ratio 07 < 0.20 (severe stenosisl, 9 dogs had a ratio of 0.20 to 0.25 (moderate stenosis), 9 dogs had a ratio of 0.26 to 0.35 (mild stenosis). and 10 dogs had a ratio of > 0.35 (anatomically normal). Lower urinary tract infection, incontinence, and pelvic bladder were not associated with response to treatment for recessed vulva Vestibulovaginal stenosts with a ratio < 0.20 was signiflcantly associated negatively wlth response to treatment. Dogs without severe vestibulovaglnai stenosls that rened vulvoplasty for a recessed vulva responded well to treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Vestibulovaginal stenosis is likely an important factor in dogs with vestibulovaginal ratio < 0.20. Vaginectomy or resection and anastomosis should be considered in dogs with severe vestibulovaginal stenosis and signs of lower urinary tract disease.(J Am Vet Med Assoc2002.221 995–9991
Comparison of colloid, thyroid follicular epithelium, and thyroid hormone concentrations in healthy and severely sick dogs
Authors: Torres Sheila M. F. , Feeney Daniel A. , Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Fletcher Thomas F. , Clarkson Christina E. , Nash Nardina L. , Hayden David W.
Published: January 2006

Objectives—To compare serum concentrations of total thyroxine (TT4), free thyroxine (fT4), and thyroid- stimulating hormone (TSH), as well as measures of thyroid follicular colloid and epithelium, between groups of healthy dogs and severely sick dogs.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—61 healthy dogs and 66 severely sick dogs.

Procedure—Serum samples were obtained before euthanasia, and both thyroid lobes were removed immediately after euthanasia. Morphometric analyses were performed on each lobe, and serum TT4, fT4, and TSH concentrations were measured.

Results—In the sick group, serum TT4and fT4concentrations were less than reference range values in 39 (59%) and 21 (32%) dogs, respectively; only 5 (8%) dogs had high TSH concentrations. Mean serum TT4and fT4concentrations were significantly lower in the sick group, compared with the healthy group. In the healthy group, a significant negative correlation was found between volume percentage of colloid and TT4or fT4concentrations, and a significant positive correlation was found between volume percentage of follicular epithelium and TT4or fT4concentrations. A significant negative correlation was observed between volume percentages of colloid and follicular epithelium in both groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—TT4and fT4concentrations are frequently less than reference range values in severely sick dogs. Therefore, thyroid status should not be evaluated during severe illness. The absence of any significant differences in mean volume percentages of follicular epithelium between healthy and severely sick dogs suggests that these 2 groups had similar potential for synthesizing and secreting thyroid hormones. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:1079–1085)
Postoperative hypoxemia and hypercarbia in healthy dogs undergoing routine ovariohysterectomy or castration and receiving butorphanol or hydromorphone for analgesia
Authors: Campbell Vicki L. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Perkowski Sandra Z.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine frequency and severity of postanesthetic hypoxemia and hypercarbia in healthy dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy or castration and given butorphanol or hydromorphone for analgesia.

Design—Prospective trial.

Animals—20 healthy dogs weighing > 10 kg (22 lb).

Procedure—Dogs were anesthestized with acepromazine, glycopyrrolate, thiopental, and isoflurane, and butorphanol (n = 10) or hydromorphone (10) was used for perioperative analgesia. Arterial blood gas analyses were performed 10 and 30 minutes and 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours after extubation.

Results—In dogs that received hydromorphone, mean PaCO2was significantly higher, compared with the preoperative value, 10 and 30 minutes and 1, 2, and 3 hours after extubation. Mean PaCO2was significantly higher in dogs given hydromorphone rather than butorphanol 10 and 30 minutes and 1 and 2 hours after extubation. Mean PaO2was significantly lower, compared with preoperative values, 30 minutes and 1 and 2 hours after extubation in dogs given hydromorphone and 30 minutes after extubation in dogs given butorphanol. Mean PaO2was significantly lower in dogs given hydromorphone rather than butorphanol 1 hour after extubation. Four dogs had PaO2< 80 mm Hg 1 or more times after extubation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that administration of hydromorphone to healthy dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy or castration may result in transient increases in PaCO2postoperatively and that administration of hydromorphone or butorphanol may result in transient decreases in PaO2. However, increases in PaCO2and decreases in PaO2were mild, and mean PaCO2and PaO2remained within reference limits. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:330–336)
Evaluation of the sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine, dexmedetomidine-butorphanol, and dexmedetomidine-ketamine in cats
Authors: Selmi André L. , Mendes Guilherme M. , Lins Bruno T. , Figueiredo Juliana P. , Barbudo-Selmi Glenda R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine alone and in combination with butorphanol or ketamine in cats.

Design—Randomized crossover study.

Animals—6 healthy adult cats.

Procedures—Cats were given dexmedetomidine alone (10 μg/kg [4.5 mg/lb], IM), a combination of dexmedetomidine (10 μg/kg, IM) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg [0.09 mg/lb], IM), or a combination of dexmedetomidine (10 μg/kg, IM) and ketamine (5 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], IM). Treatments were administered in random order, with ≥ 1 week between treatments. Physiologic variables were assessed before and after drug administration. Time to lateral recumbency, duration of lateral recumbency, time to sternal recumbency, time to recovery from sedation, and subjective evaluation of sedation, muscle relaxation, and auditory response were assessed.

Results—Each treatment resulted in adequate sedation; time to lateral recumbency, duration of lateral recumbency, and time to recovery from sedation were similar among treatments. Time to sternal recumbency was significantly greater after administration of dexmedetomidine-ketamine. Heart rate decreased significantly after each treatment; however, the decrease was more pronounced after administration of dexmedetomidine-butorphanol, compared with that following the other treatments. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements decreased significantly from baseline with all treatments; 50 minutes after drug administration, mean blood pressure differed significantly from baseline only when cats received dexmedetomidine and butorphanol.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that in cats, administration of dexmedetomidine combined with butorphanol or ketamine resulted in more adequate sedation, without clinically important cardiovascular effects, than was achieved with dexmedetomidine alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:37–41)
Evaluation of the effect of a long-term trap-neuter-return and adoption program on a free-roaming cat population
Authors: Levy Julie K. , Gale David W. , Gale Leslie A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of a long-term trapneuter-return program, with adoption whenever possible, on the dynamics of a free-roaming cat population.

Design—Observational epidemiologic study.

Animals—155 unowned free-roaming cats.

Procedures—Free-roaming cats residing on a university campus were trapped, neutered, and returned to the environment or adopted over an 11-year period.

Results—During the observation period (January 1991 to April 2002), 75% of the cats were feral, and 25% were socialized. Kittens comprised 56% of the original population. Male cats were slightly more numerous (55%) than females. At the conclusion of the observation period, 47% of the cats had been removed for adoption, 15% remained on site, 15% had disappeared, 11% were euthanatized, 6% had died, and 6% had moved to the surrounding wooded environment. Trapping began in 1991; however, a complete census of cats was not completed until 1996, at which time 68 cats resided on site. At completion of the study in 2002, the population had decreased by 66%, from 68 to 23 cats (of which 22 were feral). No kittens were observed on site after 1995, but additional stray or abandoned cats continued to become resident. New arrivals were neutered or adopted before they could reproduce.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A comprehensive long-term program of neutering followed by adoption or return to the resident colony can result in reduction of free-roaming cat populations in urban areas. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:42–46)
Results of single-session bilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with an eight-hole iliac bone plate in dogs: 95 cases (1996–1999)
Authors: Borostyankoi Frank , Rooks Robert L. , Kobluk Calvin N. , Reed Ann L. , Littledike E. Travis
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate feasibility of single-session bilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with 8-hole iliac bone plates in dogs with bilateral hip dysplasia.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—95 dogs with bilateral hip dysplasia.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and information was obtained on signalment; body weight; angles of subluxation and reduction prior to surgery; durations of surgery and hospitalization; postoperative mobility; severity of lameness, radiographic grade of hip dysplasia, Norberg angle, and femoral head coverage before and after surgery; time required for radiographic evidence of iliac healing; change in pelvic diameter; implant integrity; and complications.

Results—Mean age at the time of surgery was 10.8 months, and mean weight was 35.2 kg (77.4 lb). Prior to surgery, mean angles of subluxation were 2.2° on the right and 2.6° on the left; mean angles of reduction were 25.9° on the right and 27.3° on the left. Mean surgical time was 95 minutes. All but 1 dog were able to walk on their own by the fourth day after surgery. Mean hospitalization time was 7.5 days. Clinical signs of lameness and radiographic grade of hip dysplasia were significantly improved during follow-up examinations. Mean time for radiographic iliac healing was 8 weeks. None of the plates and only 7 of the 1,520 (0.5%) screws loosened after surgery. Nineteen dogs had complications, but all complications were minor.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that single-session bilateral triple pelvic osteotomy with 8-hole iliac bone plates is effective for treatment of dogs with bilateral hip dysplasia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:54–59)
Evaluation of an inactivated Neospora caninum vaccine in beef feedlot steers
Authors: Barling Kerry S. , Lunt David K. , Graham Sherry L. , Choromanski Leszek J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate effects of vaccination of feedlot steers against bovine neosporosis on weight gain, feed intake and efficiency (feed intake per gain), and carcass characteristics.

Design—Longitudinal observational study.

Animals—60 weaned Brangus steers seronegative forNeospora caninum.

Procedure—Steers were assigned to age-matched control and treatment groups. Steers in the treatment group receivedN caninumvaccine on days 79 and 106, while control steers received 2 placebo injections. For each steer, serologic status forN caninumwas determined on days 0 (weaning), 51, 79, 106, 135, 163, 191, 219, and 247 by use of an ELISA; body weight was determined on the same days and at slaughter (day 259). Daily feed intake per steer was measured from days 79 to 259.

Results—Seroconversion occurred in 23 of 30 (76.7%) steers in the vaccinated group. Immediately after vaccination, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and feed efficiency were significantly greater in the treatment group than in the control group, but these differences did not persist. No differences between groups were found in regard to live weight at slaughter, hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, or quality grade; however, steers in the vaccinated group had significantly lower yield grades than did control steers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In feedlot steers, use of this vaccine againstN caninumwas safe and did not affect overall feedlot performance or meat quality; effects on yield grade require further evaluation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:624–627)
Evaluation of sensitivity and specificity of cytologic examination: 269 cases (1999–2000)
Authors: Cohen Michele , Bohling Mark W. , Wright James C. , Welles Elizabeth A. , Spano Joseph S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine sensitivity and specificity of
cytologic examination used in a clinical setting.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—216 dogs, 44 cats, 4 horses, 2 ferrets, 1
llama, 1 rat, and 1 mouse.

Procedure—Records were reviewed of cases in
which a cytologic diagnosis was followed by a surgical
biopsy or postmortem examination within 3 days
with subsequent histopathologic diagnosis.
Diagnoses were compared for agreement at various
levels, including complete agreement, partial agreement,
no agreement, or no comparison possible
because of insufficient or incorrect cytologic specimen.
Levels of agreement were compared for different
categories of lesions, including neoplastic, inflammatory,
dysplastic-hyperplastic-other, and normal tissue.
Additionally, levels of agreement for neoplastic
lesions were categorized with regard to cell type,
degree of malignancy, and location. Sensitivity and
specificity of cytologic examination were calculated.

Results—At the level of general agreement (complete
and partial agreement), the sensitivity of cytologic
examination ranged from 33.3 to 66.1%,
depending on the location of the lesion. Cytologic
examination was most accurate when used to diagnose
cutaneous and subcutaneous lesions and least
accurate for diagnosis of liver lesions. Cytologic
examination was most effective in diagnosis of neoplastic
disease and least effective in diagnosis of dysplastic
or hyperplastic conditions.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cytologic
examination is a valuable diagnostic tool, although our
results indicated lower accuracy than previously
reported. False-negative results (missing a diagnosis)
were far more common than false-positive results
(categorizing a healthy animal as diseased); therefore,
if the clinical index of suspicion is high, cytologic
examination should be repeated or another technique
should be selected to rule out the suspected condition.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:964–967)
Evaluation of bacteriologic culture of individual and pooled fecal samples for detection of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in dairy cattle herds
Authors: Wells Scott J. , Godden Sandra M. , Lindeman Cynthia J. , Collins James E.
Published: January 2006

Objectives—To determine the sensitivity of bacteriologic
culture of pooled fecal samples in detecting
Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, compared with bacteriologic
culture of individual fecal samples in dairy
cattle herds.

Study Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—24 dairy cattle herds.

Procedure—Individual and pooled fecal samples
were submitted for bacteriologic culture, and results
were compared between these groups.

Results—Ninety-four and 88% of pooled fecal samples
that contained feces from at least 1 animal with
high (mean, ≥ 50 colonies/tube) and moderate (mean,
10 to 49 colonies/tube) concentrations of M paratuberculosis,
respectively, were identified by use of
bacteriologic culture of pooled fecal samples.
Prevalences of paratuberculosis determined by bacteriologic
culture of pooled and individual fecal samples
were highly correlated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bacteriologic
culture of pooled fecal samples provided a valid and
cost-effective method for the detection of M paratuberculosis
infection in dairy cattle herds and can be
used to estimate prevalence of infection within a
herd. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;223:1022–1025)
Taurine deficiency in Newfoundlands fed commercially available complete and balanced diets
Authors: Backus Robert C. , Cohen Gabrielle , Pion Paul D. , Good Kathryn L. , Rogers Quinton R. , Fascetti Andrea J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine taurine status in a large group of Newfoundlands related by environment, diet, or breeding to a dog with dilated cardiomyopathy and taurine deficiency.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—19 privately owned Newfoundlands between 5 months and 11.5 years old that had been fed commercial dry diets meeting established nutrient recommendations.

Procedure—Diet histories were obtained, and blood, plasma, and urine taurine concentrations and plasma methionine and cysteine concentrations were measured. In 8 dogs, taurine concentrations were measured before and after supplementation with methionine for 30 days. Ophthalmic examinations were performed in 16 dogs; echocardiography was performed in 6 dogs that were taurine deficient.

Results—Plasma taurine concentrations ranged from 3 to 228 nmol/mL. Twelve dogs had concentrations < 40 nmol/mL and were considered taurine deficient. For dogs with plasma concentrations < 40 nmol/mL, there was a significant linear correlation between plasma and blood taurine concentrations. For dogs with plasma concentrations > 40 nmol/mL, blood taurine concentrations did not vary substantially. Taurine-deficient dogs had been fed lamb meal and rice diets. Retinal degeneration, dilated cardiomyopathy, and cystinuria were not found in any dog examined for these conditions. The taurine deficiency was reversed by a change in diet or methionine supplementation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate a high prevalence of taurine deficiency among an environmentally and genetically related cohort of Newfoundlands fed apparently complete and balanced diets. Blood taurine concentrations indicative of taurine deficiency in Newfoundlands may be substantially less than concentrations indicative of a deficiency in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1130–1136)
Development and validation of a questionnaire for measuring behavior and temperament traits in pet dogs
Authors: Hsu Yuying , Serpell James A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess behavior and temperament traits of pet dogs.

Design—Cross-sectional survey of dog owners.

Animals—1,851 dogs belonging to clients of a veterinary teaching hospital or members of national breed clubs and 203 dogs examined by canine behavior practitioners because of behavior problems.

Procedure—Owners were asked to complete a questionnaire consisting of 152 items eliciting information on how dogs responded to specific events and situations in their usual environment. Data from completed questionnaires were subjected to factor analysis, and the resulting factors were tested for reliability and validity.

Results—Factor analysis yielded 11 factors from 68 of the original questionnaire items that together accounted for 57% of the common variance in questionnaire item scores. Reliability was acceptable for all but 1 of these factors. Behavior problems in 200 of the 203 dogs with behavior problems could be assigned to 7 diagnostic categories that matched 7 of the factors identified during factor analysis of questionnaire responses. Dogs assigned to particular diagnostic categories had significantly higher scores for corresponding questionnaire factors than did those assigned to unrelated diagnostic categories, indicating that the factors were valid .Validity of the remaining 4 factors could not be examined because of a lack of information on dogs with behavior problems related to these factors.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Findings suggest that the resulting 68-item questionnaire is a reliable and valid method of assessing behavior and temperament traits in dogs. The questionnaire may be useful in screening dogs for behavior problems and in evaluating the clinical effects of various treatments for behavior problems. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223: 1293–1300)
Evaluation of dietary patterns in dogs with cardiac disease
Authors: Freeman Lisa M. , Rush John E. , Cahalane Alane K. , Kaplan Paul M. , Markwell Peter J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the dietary patterns and intake of nutrients of concern in dogs with cardiac disease.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—82 dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) or chronic valvular disease.

Procedure—Owners of dogs were contacted and given a standardized telephone questionnaire regarding diet and a 24-hour food recall to determine daily intake of calories, protein, fat, sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

Results—Among the 82 dogs, 71% had no congestive heart failure (CHF), and 29% had CHF or a history of CHF. Sixty-one percent of dogs had concurrent diseases. Anorexia was or had been evident in 34% of dogs and was significantly more common in the CHF group and in dogs with DCM. Most dogs (92%) received some treats and table food, with a median percentage of daily calories from treats of 19% (range, 0% to 100%). Most owners (57%) that administered pills used human or pet foods for pill administration. Most dogs ate more than the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) minimum values for fat and protein. Daily sodium intake varied from 14 to 384 mg/100 kcal, compared with the AAFCO minimum of 17 mg/100 kcal. A median of 25% of total daily sodium came from treats and table food (range, 0% to 100%). Dogs with CHF ate significantly more sodium, compared with dogs with no CHF.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dietary intake for dogs with cardiac disease is highly variable and often not optimal. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223: 1301–1305)
Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of cervical articular facet joints in Scottish Deerhounds: 9 cases (1998–2002)
Authors: Kinzel Sylvia , Hein Sven , Buecker Arno , Krombach Gabriele A. , Kuepper Werner
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine diagnostic features and efficacy of treatment of arthrosis of the cervical articular facet joints between C2 and C3 in Scottish Deerhounds.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—9 client-owned dogs.

Procedure—Medical records of affected dogs were reviewed. Diagnosis was confirmed by results of clinical examination (signs of severe pain from unilateral or bilateral flexion of the cervical vertebral column), radiography, myelography, and computed tomography. Treatment consisted of fluoroscopy-guided intra-articular injection of corticosteroids and lidocaine.

Results—Unilateral or bilateral arthrosis of the cervical facet joints between C2 and C3 was detected in all dogs. In 7 dogs, signs of pain were elicited by flexion of the side of the neck in which affected joints were detected radiographically. Two dogs had signs of pain during right lateral flexion, although bilateral lesions were detected. Five dogs had unilateral lesions, and 4 dogs had bilateral lesions; sclerosis and hypertrophy of the articular process were common. Two dogs had bridging of the articular space. Use of computed tomography confirmed the diagnosis. Myelography did not reveal abnormalities of the spinal cord or canal. After treatment, 8 dogs had rapid marked improvement of clinical signs, and 7 dogs remained free of clinical signs for > 4 months.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Arthrosis of the cervical facet joints in Scottish Deerhounds is a severely painful condition for which conventional radiography is a useful screening test. Intra-articular administration of corticosteroids and anesthetic is efficacious, long-lasting, and minimally invasive. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1311–1315)
Evaluation of flunixin meglumine as an adjunct treatment for diarrhea in dairy calves
Authors: Barnett Staci C. , Sischo William M. , Moore Dale A. , Reynolds James P.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To assess the use of flunixin meglumine as an adjunct treatment for diarrhea in calves.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—115 calves with diarrhea that were 1 to 21 days old at enrollment.

Procedure—Calves that developed diarrhea were randomly assigned to receive no flunixin meglumine (controls), a single dose of flunixin meglumine (2.2 mg/kg [1.0 mg/lb]), or 2 doses of flunixin meglumine administered 24 hours apart. Serum IgG concentration and PCV were measured prior to enrollment in the trial. Calves were evaluated daily to determine rectal temperature, fecal consistency, demeanor, and skin elasticity score . The primary analytic outcome was days of sickness (morbiddays).

Results—Calves with fecal blood and treated with a single dose of flunixin meglumine had fewer morbiddays and antimicrobial treatments, compared with controls. Although not significant, calves given 2 doses of flunixin meglumine in 24 hours had fewer morbid-days than untreated control calves. Regardless of severity of diarrhea, calves without fecal blood did not benefit from the use of flunixin. For calves with fecal blood, failure of passive transfer (low serum IgG concentration) was an independent risk factor for increased morbid-days.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Treatment with a single dose of flunixin meglumine resulted in fewer antimicrobial treatments and morbid-days in calves with fecal blood. As observed in other studies, calves with failure of passive transfer were at high risk for poor outcomes. This emphasizes the importance of developing and implementing effective colostrum delivery programs on dairy farms. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1329–1333)
Surgical management of cricopharyngeal dysphagia in dogs: 14 cases (1989–2001)
Authors: Warnock Jennifer J. , Marks Stanley L. , Pollard Rachel , Kyles Andrew E. , Davidson Autumn
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine outcome of and complications
associated with cricopharyngeal myotomy or
myectomy for treatment of cricopharyngeal dysphagia
(CPD) in dogs

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—14 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs with CPD that
underwent cricopharyngeal myotomy or myectomy
were examined. Follow-up information was obtained
through telephone interviews with owners and referring
veterinarians and clinical examinations when feasible.

Results—16 surgical procedures were performed
on the 14 dogs. Dysphagia was completely
resolved immediately after surgery in 1 dog, and
clinical signs did not recur (follow-up time of 8
years); a second dog also had immediate complete
resolution of dysphagia, but follow-up time was
only 10 days. Three dogs had transient complete
resolution with a mean time to recurrence of dysphagia
of 12.3 weeks (range, 2 to 36 weeks). Three
dogs had permanent partial resolution. Six dogs
had no improvement after surgery. Eight of the 14
dogs were euthanatized because of problems related
to CPD, including persistent dysphagia (n = 8)
and aspiration pneumonia (5).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The failure
rate for dogs undergoing surgical treatment of CPD
may be high, particularly if concurrent aspiration
pneumonia or malnutrition is not addressed prior to
surgery. For those dogs with concurrent diseases,
more aggressive medical management, such as
enteral tube feeding, may be warranted rather than
surgery. In dogs with CPD complicated by other
anatomic or functional conditions, such as myasthenia
gravis, laryngeal paralysis, and esophageal stricture,
surgery may also not be indicated. (J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2003;223:1462–1468)
Injection of corticosteroids, hyaluronate, and amikacin into the navicular bursa in horses with signs of navicular area pain unresponsive to other treatments: 25 cases (1999–2002)
Authors: Dabareiner Robin M. , Carter G. Kent , Honnas Clifford M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine history, clinical and radiographic abnormalities, and outcome in horses with signs of navicular area pain unresponsive to corrective shoeing and systemic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration that were treated with an injection of corticosteroids, sodium hyaluronate, and amikacin into the navicular bursa.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—25 horses.

Procedure—Data collected from the medical records included signalment, history, horse use, severity and duration of lameness, shoeing regimen, results of diagnostic anesthesia, radiographic abnormalities, and outcome.

Results—17 horses had bilateral forelimb lameness, 7 had unilateral forelimb lameness, and 1 had unilateral hind limb lameness. Mean duration of lameness was 9.2 months. All horses had been treated with corrective shoeing and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for at least 6 months; 18 had previously been treated by injection of corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate into the distal interphalangeal joint. Fourteen horses had mismatched front feet, and 21 horses had signs of pain in response to application of pressure over the central aspect of the frog. Palmar digital nerve anesthesia resulted in substantial improvement in or resolution of the lameness in all horses. Twenty horses (80%) were sound and returned to intended activities 2 weeks after navicular bursa treatment; mean duration of soundness was 4.6 months. Two horses that received numerous navicular bursa injections had a rupture of the deep digital flexor tendon at the level of the pastern region.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that navicular bursa treatment may provide temporary improvement in horses with signs of chronic navicular area pain that fail to respond to other treatments. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1469–1474)
Risk factors and prevalence of injuries in horses during various types of steeplechase races
Authors: Stephen Jennifer O. , White II Nathaniel A. , McCormick William H. , Cowles R. Reynolds , Corley Kevin T. T.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify the types of injuries sustained by horses that competed in steeplechase races and determine the prevalence of and risk factors for those injuries.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—2,680 horses that competed in various types of steeplechase races from 1996 through 2000.

Procedure—Data regarding races; environment; equipment problems; the number of horses that entered, started, and finished races; the number of riders that fell; and the number of horses that were slowed or stopped by the rider, ran off the course, fell, and sustained injuries or physical abnormalities during races were collected on a standard form by the official veterinarian who attended each meet. Data from all meets were not recorded; however, in recorded meets, data from every race were reported.

Results—Data for 197 hurdle, 65 timber, 76 flat, and 8 mixed races were recorded. Nine (3.4/1,000 horses that started in races) horses died or were euthanatized, and 7 of those were associated with catastrophic musculoskeletal injury. Seven fractures were recorded. Four fractures involved forelimbs, 1 involved a hind limb, and 2 involved the cervical portion of the vertebral column. All horses with fractures were euthanatized. Deep or hard course conditions were associated with an increased risk of breakdown injuries.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Successful development and implementation of strategies to prevent injuries and death in horses in steeplechase races depend on a clear understanding of the types and prevalence of injuries involved and risk factors associated with those injuries. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1788–1790)
Thyroid function in mature horses ingesting endophyte-infected fescue seed
Authors: Breuhaus Babetta A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether ingestion of fescue seed infected with the endophyteNeotyphodium coenophialumwould alter thyroid function in adult horses.

Design—Original study.

Animals—4 adult mares that were not pregnant and 6 adult geldings.

Procedure—Thyrotropin releasing hormone stimulation tests were performed while horses received a standard diet and after infected seed (2.3 kg/d [5 lb/d]) had been fed for 1 and 2 months. Serum prolactin concentrations were measured to verify endophyte absorption.

Results—Serum prolactin concentrations indicated that at least 8 of 10 horses absorbed the endophyte. Baseline concentrations of thyroid stimulating hormone, total and free triiodothyronine, and total and free thyroxine and the change in hormone concentrations in response to administration of thyrotropin releasing hormone (1 mg, IV) were not altered by ingestion of endophyte-infected fescue seed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that ingestion of fescue seed infected with the endophytic fungusN coenophialumfor 2 months has little effect on thyroid function in adult horses that are not pregnant. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:340–345)
Evaluation of the role of lower urinary tract disease in cats with urine-marking behavior
Authors: Tynes Valarie V. , Hart Benjamin L. , Pryor Patricia A. , Bain Melissa J. , Messam Locksley L. McV.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether findings of urinalyses
could be used to reliably distinguish gonadectomized
cats with urine-marking behavior from those
with no problem urination.

Design—Case control study.

Animals—58 gonadectomized cats (47 males and 11
females) with urine-marking behavior (ie, marking of
vertical surfaces) and 39 (26 males and 13 females)
without problem urination or urinary tract-associated
conditions.

Procedure—Urine was collected by cystocentesis
from all cats. Findings of urinalyses of cats with urinemarking
behavior were analyzed statistically for sexrelated
differences and differences between cats that
marked vertical surfaces only and those that marked
both vertical and horizontal surfaces; findings of urinalyses
of control cats were compared between
sexes. Subsequently, results of urinalyses of cats
with urine-marking behavior were compared with
those of control cats.

Results—With regard to variables measured via urinalysis,
there were no differences between male and
female cats within either group. Among cats with
urine-marking behavior, there were no differences
between those that only marked vertically and those
that marked vertically and horizontally. Analyses of
data from all cats with urine-marking behavior and
control cats revealed no differences that could be
associated with urine marking.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These data
suggest that urine-marking behavior by gonadectomized
cats is an aspect of normal behavior. Clinicians
are advised to focus on behavioral history of house-soiling
cats to differentiate between urine-marking behavior
and inappropriate urination; for the latter, urinalysis
is appropriate to rule out lower urinary tract disorders.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;223:457–461)
Pneumoperitoneum in dogs and cats: 39 cases (1983–2002)
Authors: Saunders W. Brian , Tobias Karen M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify the most common causes of pneumoperitoneum in dogs and cats and determine history, clinical features, and outcome of affected animals.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—31 dogs and 8 cats.

Procedures—Medical records were reviewed for signalment; history; abnormal physical, clinicopathologic, and radiographic findings; results of cytologic analysis and bacterial culture of abdominal fluid; gross and histologic findings at surgery or necropsy; and outcome.

Results—Pneumoperitoneum was classified as spontaneous in 25 animals and traumatic in 14. Causes of traumatic pneumoperitoneum included vehicular impact, gunshot wounds, abdominal dog bite wounds, and iatrogenic pneumothorax. Spontaneous pneumoperitoneum was caused by gastrointestinal tract perforation in 23 animals; underlying causes included neoplasia, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration, and corticosteroid administration. Two animals developed spontaneous pneumoperitoneum after bladder rupture. Animals with spontaneous pneumoperitoneum were significantly older and had clinical signs of longer duration than those with traumatic pneumoperitoneum. Sixteen animals survived, including 15 of 23 animals that underwent surgery. Animals that survived had significantly higher serum albumin concentrations than did animals that died or were euthanatized.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although pneumoperitoneum is most often attributable to perforation of a hollow viscus, other causes do exist. Early exploration is recommended for diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:462–468)
Clinical differentiation of acute necrotizing from chronic nonsuppurative pancreatitis in cats: 63 cases (1996–2001)
Authors: Ferreri Jean A. , Hardam Erin , Kimmel Susan E. , Saunders H. Mark , Winkle Thomas J. Van , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Washabau Robert J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To characterize clinical, clinicopathologic, radiographic, and ultrasonographic findings in cats with histologically confirmed acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP) or chronic nonsuppurative pancreatitis (CP) and identify features that may be useful in the antemortem differentiation of these disorders.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—63 cats with histologically confirmed ANP (n = 30) or CP (33).

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for signalment, clinical signs, concurrent diseases, clinicopathologic findings, and results of radiography and ultrasonography.

Results—Cats in both groups had similar nonspecific clinical signs, physical examination findings, and radiographic and ultrasonographic abnormalities. Abdominal ultrasonographic abnormalities, including hypoechoic pancreas, hyperechoic mesentery, and abdominal effusion, were found in cats in both groups and, therefore, were not specific for ANP. Cats with CP were significantly more likely to have concurrent diseases than were cats with ANP (100 and 83%, respectively). Clinicopathologic abnormalities were similar between groups; however, serum alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities were significantly higher in cats with CP.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that ANP and CP in cats cannot be distinguished from each other solely on the basis of history, physical examination findings, results of clinicopathologic testing, radiographic abnormalities, or ultrasonographic abnormalities. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:469–474)