bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current perspectives on rabies 2. Review of classical rabies and its control
Authors: Bowen‐Davies Jenny , Lowings Paul
Published: October 2010

AN article in the last issue described the biology of the rabies virus, including its epidemiology pathogenesis and immunopathogenesis (In Practice, March 2000, pp 118‐124). In this article, the clinical signs, diagnosis and control of rabies are discussed, with a brief review of the recently introduced Pet Travel Scheme and action to be taken on suspicion of a case.
SIPPs ‐ an alternative means of practice property purchase
Authors: Moore Andy
Published: October 2010

THE cost of buying practice property represents one of the largest outgoings in the business of veterinary practice. In this article, Andy Moore explains how, in certain circumstances, the use of a self‐invested personal pension (SIPP) can produce savings of up to 40 per cent on the cost of purchasing new premises.
Cows and cubicles
Authors: Hughes John
Published: October 2010

THE modern Holstein cow is a very different animal from her Friesian, Ayrshire and Shorthorn ancestors which she has now largely replaced. Breeding technology developed over recent years has hastened this change. On average, she is approximately 15 cm (6') taller at the shoulder and 30 cm (1') longer from nose to tail than the conventional Friesian. She produces up to three times as much milk, which means that with a fully stocked udder she has to carry around, with milk and tissue, the equivalent of 50 kg between her legs. As a result, she is more stressed and more vulnerable and, to perform to her potential, she has a correspondingly increased need to be housed in comfort and cleanliness. Unfortunately, the modern dairy cow has largely inherited cubicle sheds designed 25 to 30 years ago for her smaller and more hardy predecessors. The adverse consequences often manifest themselves in mastitis, foot lameness, and swollen hocks, hips and knees.
IT and the changing face of referral work
Authors: Boydell Pip
Published: October 2010

AS more advanced IT equipment becomes accessible, the scope for referral practices to incorporate it into everyday tasks and to improve the facilities they can offer increases all the time. In this article, Pip Boydell suggests some applications for the plethora of IT equipment available, and looks ahead to what the future has in store.
Fluid therapy for cats 2. Restoring fluid and electrolyte balance
Authors: Cannon Martha
Published: October 2010

FLUID therapy will be beneficial for any animal that has developed, or is at risk of developing, a disturbance in fluid, electrolyte or acid‐base balance. In general terms, fluid therapy for cats is based on the same principles as fluid therapy for any animal, but their small size can present a challenge, as was discussed in an article in the last issue (In Practice, May 2000, pp 242‐252). Cats are also at risk of developing certain electrolyte and acid‐base disturbances, due to primary disease or, in some circumstances, due to veterinary intervention, as will be highlighted in this article.
Differential diagnosis of abnormal respiratory noises in the exercising horse
Authors: McCann Jacquelyn
Published: October 2010

UPPER respiratory tract airflow in horses can increase from 240 litres/minute at rest to 4500 litres/minute during maximal exercise. At the same time, the respiratory rate may increase to 148 breaths/minute. In normal horses, the nostrils, pharynx and larynx dilate during exercise to accommodate this increased airflow and relatively little respiratory noise is produced. Abnormalities of the upper respiratory tract that restrict airflow during fast exercise cause turbulence and often result in poor exercise tolerance and the production of abnormal respiratory sounds. It is important that clinicians are able to identify abnormal exercise‐related respiratory noises, differentiate them from the normal sounds produced by exercising horses and assess their significance with regard to the exercise capacity and use of the horse.
The environment and mastitis
Authors: Blowey Roger , Edmondson Peter
Published: October 2010

THE past 30 or so years have seen a considerable reduction in the incidence of clinical mastitis, with the national average now 43 cases per 100 cows per annum compared with over 120 in 1968. This reduction has been achieved through the adoption of the then National Institute for Research in Dairying's 'Five Point Plan' which has reduced the amount of contagious mastitis and has led to a fall in the national cell count from over 600,000/ml in the late 1960s to under 180,000/ml in 1998. Over this period the level of environmental clinical mastitis has increased slightly. This may be due to the larger herd sizes, the pressures put on the environment during the housed period and the greater milk flow rates associated with higher yields which have produced an increasingly open teat canal. This article discusses the principal risk factors associated with environmental mastitis and sets out a number of practical control measures.
Telemedicine ‐ a vision of the future?
Authors: Boydell Pip
Published: October 2010

IN a recent article (May 2000, pp 280‐281), Pip Boydell discussed how developments in information technology are influencing referral work. In this article he goes one step further and describes how developing technology might influence practice, discussing possible developments and potential problems that may occur as 'medicine at a distance' becomes a routine part of practice life.
Canine dilated cardiomyopathy 1. Breed manifestations and diagnosis
Authors: McEwan Joanna Dukes
Published: October 2010

CANINE dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition characterised by impaired myocardial contractility and progressive dilatation of the left, right or all four chambers of the heart, without proportionate compensatory myocardial hypertrophy. The condition has, to date, been considered an idiopathic disease of unknown aetiology, although there is evidence that there might be a genetic basis to the disease in many dog breeds. This article describes some of the breed‐specific manifestations of canine DCM and discusses the evidence for a genetic aetiology. It also highlights the need for early diagnosis of the asymptomatic stages of the condition (occult DCM), which, if undetected, can lead to sudden death or congestive heart failure. A second article, to be published in the next issue, will discuss the treatment and management of canine DCM.
Feline lower urinary tract disease: an update
Authors: Gunn‐Moore Danièlle
Published: October 2010

FELINE lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) describes a collection of conditions that can affect the bladder and/or urethra of cats. Unfortunately, since the urinary tract can respond to insult in only a limited number of ways, the clinical signs are rarely indicative of a particular disease. While there are many conditions that can result in signs of FLUTD, the vast majority of cases are idiopathic. This article discusses possible aetiologies and describes a stepwise approach to diagnosis and management.
Caesarean section in the ewe
Authors: Thorne Mike , Jackson Peter
Published: October 2010

THE current financial crisis in the farming industry undoubtedly means that fewer sheep suffering from dystocia will be presented for caesarean section, with the risk of compromising the welfare of lambing ewes. Many ewes which ideally require caesarean section are likely to be euthanased rather than presented for surgery. This article discusses the evaluation of the ewe and her unborn lamb(s) with a view to determining the prognosis and the economic aspects of the case. It also describes two alternative techniques by which the operation may be carried out in practice in a humane, and economical, manner.
Coping with conflict in the practice 1. Why are some people so difficult?
Authors: Dale Charlotte
Published: October 2010

HOW do you cope 'when the fur flies' in your practice? Dealing with difficult people poses a challenging and often frustrating problem. Those involved may be clients, colleagues or employees and the event itself a one‐off or regular occurrence. In the first of a series of three articles on coping with conflict in the practice, Charlotte Dale focuses on deteriorating working relationships, exploring why some people may be 'difficult', and suggests ways in which a confrontational situation may be handled.
Practical approach to the control of pneumonia in housed calves
Authors: Gibbs Alison
Published: October 2010

CALF pneumonia continues to be a significant problem for the cattle industry, both in economic and welfare terms, and its control remains a topic of prime importance for veterinary surgeons and farmers alike. However, the diverse nature of the pathogens and disease syndromes involved means that there is no panacea. The incidence and severity of calf pneumonia is very closely allied with management and disease patterns on individual farms and so the best approach is to implement a control programme for each farm tailored specifically to its own needs. This plan can be formulated by following a methodical approach, as described in this article. For the purposes of the article, the term 'calf' includes any bovine animal up to one year of age.
A responsible attitude to waste disposal
Authors: Gillies Hugh
Published: October 2010

IT is the responsibility of veterinary surgeons to ensure that all waste produced by a practice is disposed of correctly and by a licensed waste management contractor. In this article, Hugh Gillies looks at how different types of waste are categorised and at the legal requirements for dealing with clinical and special waste.
Vasectomy in the pig
Authors: Morris Jim
Published: October 2010

VASECTOMISED or teaser boars have long been recognised as being a useful tool in the manipulation of oestrus in sows. The boar provides the greatest stimulus for oestrus and is also the best detector of oestrus available to the stockman. The increasing use of artificial insemination in the UK means that fewer entire boars are found on farm. Teasers, which are hormonally intact, may therefore be required to help detect oestrus among gilts and sows and also to stimulate them into oestrus before artificial insemination. This is especially helpful in the case of gilts, whose lack of experience at mating may lead to damage to a working boar, particularly if no replacement animals are available. This article describes the procedures involved in vasectomy of the boar.
Reproductive surgery in the pet pig
Authors: Carr John
Published: October 2010

PIGS are an increasingly popular, albeit unusual, pet. The two breeds which are most commonly kept as pets are the Vietnamese pot‐bellied pig and the Kune Kune. Pigs are more intelligent than dogs, are relatively easy to train and, when kept in a loving environment, present with few behavioural problems. However, puberty and its subsequent reproductive changes can result in the development of unpleasant and potentially dangerous behavioural traits, which may require surgical correction. This article briefly reviews a number of important considerations relating to reproductive surgery in the pet pig. When handling pigs it is worth remembering that they have a powerful neck and bite, and even pet varieties can weigh around 100 kg and outrun most humans.
Disease control in adult pheasants
Authors: Pennycott Tom
Published: October 2010

OF all the different types of birds farmed commercially, veterinary surgeons in general practice are most likely to come across game birds, especially pheasants. Pheasants are reared each year to provide large numbers of birds for release into the wild, mostly for sport. This article describes the disease problems encountered during the management of adult pheasants used to produce fertile eggs for hatching artificially. It also discusses the implementation of some measures used to control these diseases.
Influence of milking machines on mastitis
Authors: Edmondson Peter
Published: October 2010

MILKING machines are used more than most other pieces of equipment on the dairy farm and yet their function, maintenance and potential contribution to mastitis incidents are poorly understood by many farmers. As a result, they are often neglected, despite the fact that they are responsible for generating the majority of a dairy farmer's income. It is important that veterinary surgeons involved in mastitis investigation have at least a basic understanding of the milking machine and its influence on levels of mastitis and thereby Bactoscan results or total bacterial counts (TBCs). It is very useful to be able to pinpoint possible problem areas so that the machine can either be included or excluded as a contributory factor. This article summarises the principles of machine milking and discusses the various ways in which the machine can increase the likelihood of mastitis. Some basic investigation methods and tests to check milking machine function are also described.
Employing a locum: the more effort invested, the greater the returns
Authors: Hillam Richard
Published: October 2010

EMPLOYING the services of a locum from time to time is very much part of modern‐day veterinary practice. Picking the right person is not always easy but, as Richard Hillam explains, there are a number of ground rules which will help to ensure that the best person is selected and utilised to his or her full potential.
Neurological examination of dogs 2. Interpretation of findings
Authors: Jeffery Nick
Published: October 2010

FOLLOWING a neurological examination (see Part 1, In Practice, March 2001, pp 118‐130), the results of the tests must be interpreted to provide a list of differential diagnoses for evaluation. Given the vast number of potential neurological disorders, this may appear to be an overwhelming task. However, because of the high incidence of specific problems within certain regions of the nervous system, once the site of the disorder has been determined, consideration of the animal's history usually allows the identification of a small number of possible diagnoses. There are, therefore, two objectives in the interpretation of the neurological examination: first, to determine the site(s) at which there is dysfunction in the nervous system, and, secondly, to formulate a differential diagnosis list so that appropriate ancillary tests can be carried out. These two objectives must be considered separately; the site of a lesion must be determined before considering the type of disease that could account for the signs. Premature interpretation of historical information can lead to erroneous diagnosis.
Practical approach to the dyspnoeic cat
Authors: MacKay Amy
Published: October 2010

THERE are a significant number of differential diagnoses for dyspnoea in the cat. These vary in terms of clinical presentation and severity of clinical signs, and may be the result of either respiratory or non‐respiratory factors. This article discusses the basic principles of examination, diagnosis and treatment of the acutely dyspnoeic cat, before going on to consider two of the most common causes of acute‐onset dyspnoea encountered in general veterinary practice ‐ feline asthma and congestive heart failure.
Induction of parturition in sheep
Authors: Ingoldby Larissa , Jackson Peter
Published: October 2010

ALTHOUGH induction of birth has been quite widely used in cattle and is extensively used in pigs, it remains a relatively uncommon procedure in sheep. A major limitation to the technique in sheep is the poor survival of premature lambs and the frequent lack of precise information concerning the stage of gestation of ewes. Induction of parturition to facilitate batch lambing in groups of synchronised ewes can be very successful. However, the adverse economics of the sheep industry in recent years may have precluded its more widespread use. In instances where the welfare and possibly the survival of a ewe is at risk, as in the case of pregnancy toxaemia, a reliable protocol to induce parturition safely and maximise lamb viability is essential.
Castration techniques in the horse
Authors: Green Peter
Published: October 2010

MOST male horses in the UK are castrated or 'gelded' before maturity to reduce or prevent the difficulties associated with keeping and riding entire male horses. The majority of castrations are performed in young horses (colts) but, from time to time, mature animals (stallions) also need to be castrated due to poor breeding performance or demand, change of career, or because of testicular or inguinal pathology. The choice of castration technique is governed by the age, temperament and size of the horse, the presence of concurrent abnormalities, the preferences of the clinician or owner and by the facilities available. This article discusses these factors and describes the procedures involved in both open and closed castration.
Diagnosis and managemnent of brain tumours in dogs and cats
Authors: Brearley Malcolm
Published: October 2010

WHILE brain tumours in dogs and cats are by no means common, it is likely that they have been underdiagnosed in the past. With the increasing use of techniques such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, it is now possible to detect intracranial tumours with relative accuracy. More effective therapy has been developed and the prognosis should no longer be considered grave in all cases. This article highlights the advances that have been made in the management of these often devastating tumours over the past 10 years.
Working side by side: spouses in partnership
Authors: Openshaw Nick , Downing Ian
Published: October 2010

SINCE the Royal College's announcement that it would no longer be opposed to non‐veterinary surgeons becoming partners in veterinary practices, the scope for the spouses of vets to become involved in practices has increased. In this article, Nick Openshaw and Ian Downing examine a number of issues which should be considered before a spouse becomes formally involved in the business ‐ whether as a partner or an employee.
Investigation of anaemia in dogs
Authors: Knottenbelt Clare
Published: October 2010

ANAEMIA is a common presenting sign in veterinary practice and is defined as a decrease in red blood cells (erythrocytes) or a decrease in haemoglobin concentration. It can result from a failure of red cell production, red cell loss or destruction. By undertaking a series of investigations, the cause of the anaemia can be identified. This article describes how to investigate anaemia in the dog using a step‐by‐ step approach.
Advances in ocular therapeutics in dogs and cats
Authors: Munro Elizabeth
Published: October 2010

A RANGE of agents with diverse actions is used in ocular therapeutics, including antimicrobials, anti‐inflammatory agents, tear replacement preparations, immunosuppressants, ocular hypotensive agents and modulators of pupil size. The cornerstone of successful ophthalmology, however, is accurate diagnosis, which is based on careful and critical examination of the eye. This article provides practical information about the more recently available products, and considers their use in context with established practice.
Control of digital dermatitis in cattle
Authors: Laven Richard
Published: October 2010

DIGITAL dermatitis is an infectious disease which affects the skin of cattle and is usually seen around the bulbs of the heel. It was first identified almost 30 years ago in Italy, but has since been diagnosed in most of the major cattle‐producing countries, including the UK, where it has spread rapidly through the dairy herd. Digital dermatitis is now the most common infectious cause of lameness in the dairy cow and, along with white line disease and sole ulcers, is one of the top three causes of lameness, with over 70 per cent of herds affected. The disease is a major cause of poor welfare and economic loss, and its control should therefore form an integral part of any herd health plan. This article describes the most important elements of a control programme for digital dermatitis.
Salmonella typhimuriumDT1104: has it had its day?
Authors: Davies Robert
Published: October 2010

IN the 1990s, there was an epidemic of salmonellosis in humans and domestic livestock in the UK. The predominant Salmonella in humans remained S enteritidis phage type (PT) 4. However, secondary to that there was a dramatic increase in S typhimurium definitive phage type (DT) 104 with chromosomally encoded multiple antibiotic resistance. Recent falls in reported cases of DT104 in humans and livestock suggest that the epidemic may gradually be drawing to a close, but, despite a great deal of research, it is still not known for certain where the outbreak started and why DT104 was able to cause such a large epidemic when most Salmonella strains remain localised. The widespread dissemination of DT104 in humans, livestock and the environment means that increased attention to Salmonella control should be maintained both in agricultural and food processing and preparation areas and in waste disposal to reduce the risk of such an epidemic occurring in the future. This article discusses aspects of the epidemiology, clinical manifestation and control of DT104 infection in humans and in various sectors of the livestock industry.
Bovine paratuberculosis: ongoing challenges, renewed concerns
Authors: Jones Philip
Published: October 2010

PARATUBERCULOSIS (Johne's disease) is a chronic wasting disease of ruminants that was first described in cattle in 1895. It is generally accepted that [i]Mycobacterium avium[/i] subspecies [i]paratuberculosis[/i] (MAP) is the causal agent although many of the details regarding the mechanisms of pathogenesis remain unknown. Paratuberculosis is of principal economic importance in cattle, sheep and goats but infection with MAP has been reported in many other species including deer, South American camelids, bison, stumptail macaques, rabbits, foxes and stoats. Bovine paratuberculosis is a significant disease for a number of reasons. As well as causing economic losses as a result of reduced production, culling of infected animals and the costs of testing procedures and control measures, it has been suggested that MAP plays a role in the aetiology of Crohn's disease in humans ‐ although this hypothesis remains highly controversial. This article discusses the challenges posed by bovine paratuberculosis, particularly with regard to diagnosis and control, and briefly reviews the evidence concerning the potential zoonotic role of MAP.
Prevention and treatment of perioperative hypothermia in animals under 5 kg bodyweight
Authors: Murison Pamela
Published: October 2010

HYPOTHERMIA resulting from anaesthesia is common in the perioperative period and may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias and other complications. Very small animals are especially at risk of developing hypothermia because of their larger surface area to volume ratio compared with heavier animals. If the bodyweight of an animal is abnormally low, heat loss may also be increased due to less body fat insulation. The risk of hypothermia can be reduced by a variety of methods and many devices are available to provide warmth for anaesthetised animals. This article discusses why temperature loss is important, and how its effects can be minimised.
The pressures of the first job
Authors: O'Kane Joe
Published: October 2010

VETERINARY surgery seems to be as popular a career choice as ever, with more people now applying to get onto a university course than ever before. It would be natural to assume that the students selected to pursue veterinary science are those most committed to making a success of their undergraduate and graduate careers. However, at the same time, more new graduates are complaining about the pressures associated with their first few years in practice and many are taking breaks from the job ‐ or even quitting the profession altogether. In this article, Joe O'Kane identifies some of the problems that new graduates face and suggests some ways of easing the pressures.
Selecting an insurance broker to ensure maximum added value
Authors: Dickinson Keith
Published: October 2010

LIKE many small businesses, veterinary practices will often buy in the advice they need when it comes to assessing their requirements in areas that fall outside their expertise. In this article, Keith Dickinson explains what an insurance broker can do for a practice, and suggests some questions that a practice might ask a broker to ensure that he or she is proactive and can offer relevant advice.
Endoparasites in the dog and cat
Authors: Fisher Maggie
Published: October 2010

ENDOPARASITES of cats and dogs include both helminths and protozoa. While there has been relatively little change in the understanding of, and control strategies for, helminths in cats and dogs over the past 10 years, a new milestone was reached in 2000 when the first endectocide for use in these species was introduced into the UK. This article reviews helminth parasites of the dog and cat in the UK and discusses methods for the prevention and treatment of infection. It also highlights potential zoonoses and pathogens for other species. Control strategies for protozoan parasites in dogs and cats will be reviewed in a future article.
Update on therapeutics for obstructive pulmonary diseases in horses
Authors: Durham Andy
Published: October 2010

OBSTRUCTIVE pulmonary disease in the horse is typified by two common, related conditions ‐ chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and summer pasture associated obstructive pulmonary disease (SPAOPD). Recently, the term recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) has been suggested to encompass both conditions. Other conditions, including small airway inflammatory disease, exercise‐induced pulmonary haemorrhage, lungworm and primary viral or bacterial airway disease, may also involve components of obstructive pulmonary disease. A limited number of preparations carrying equine product licences may be used for the treatment of equine RAO although not all of these are licensed specifically for pulmonary diseases. There are, however, many more products licensed for the treatment of respiratory disease in humans which may also benefit horses suffering from obstructive pulmonary diseases. This article discusses various therapeutic agents which are useful in the management of RAO, including a number of non‐licensed products which are known to have been used safely and effectively in horses. In many cases, inhalation therapy offers considerable advantages over systemic therapy and is associated with a lower risk of side effects.
Challenges facing the UK cattle industry
Authors: Lowman Basil
Published: October 2010

OVER the past 20 years, the UK cattle industry has experienced a gradual decrease in the total number of breeding cows, an increasing proportion of which are beef cows. As these trends are set to continue, producers are having to realign their businesses in an attempt to improve profitability. While disease outbreaks, such as the recent foot‐and‐mouth epidemic, are unlikely to impact on these trends per se, they will nevertheless increase the rate of change seen within the marketplace. This article describes the dynamics of the cattle industry in the UK and discusses what implications the various underlying factors might have for veterinary practice.
How well do you understand your management accounts?
Authors: Gunn Dixon
Published: October 2010

MANAGEMENT accounts should be designed to provide the information the partners require to monitor practice performance ‐ after all, this is what they are intended for. If designed, implemented and analysed correctly they should provide a wealth of information. Here, Dixon Gunn poses some questions to find out how effectively you are tapping this resource.
A system for assessing cow cleanliness
Authors: Hughes John
Published: October 2010

THE repercussions of modern farming methods and the trend towards intensification are coming under increasing public scrutiny. Following the outbreaks of Escherichia coli 0157 infection in the mid‐1990s, abattoirs have imposed standards for the cleanliness of animals submitted for slaughter. It would seem prudent for the dairy industry to remain free from reproach. A high standard of cow cleanliness indicates limited exposure to environmental mastitis pathogens and is elementary to food safety, hygiene and quality assurance schemes. This article describes a numerical scoring system for assessing both cow cleanliness and nutritional status as defined by faecal consistency (which appears to be a dominant factor in determining cow cleanliness). It also suggests a number of practical ways of improving the standard of cow cleanliness.
Scintigraphy in the horse: indications and use in the investigation of lameness and poor performance
Authors: Nelson Alastair
Published: October 2010

SCINTIGRAPHY has been used as a diagnostic imaging technique in the horse for more than 25 years. The technique has become more widely accepted and used over the past five years as relatively cheap second‐hand equipment and dedicated veterinary computer software has become available. This article describes the principles of scintigraphy and outlines some of its potential uses in the horse. In particular, it discusses how scintigraphy may be used in the investigation of lameness in the horse.
Milk antibody testing in cattle
Authors: Pritchard Geoff
Published: October 2010

MILK antibody testing has played a significant role in cattle disease control and eradication programmes in many countries, particularly in mainland Europe and Scandinavia, since the mid‐1980s. In Britain, bulk milk antibody testing is an integral part of the statutory control programmes for brucellosis and enzootic bovine leukosis. It is also used by veterinary diagnostic laboratories, and within formal cattle health schemes, for measuring bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV), infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus (IBRV)/bovine herpesvirus 1 and Leptospira hardjo infections. A bulk tank antibody test for Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) was used for a recent prevalence study in Denmark, but proved unreliable. Milk antibody testing has, however, been successfully developed for several other important cattle infections including salmonella, respiratory syncytial virus and coronavirus. In 1997, the VLA introduced bulk milk antibody testing for BVDV, IBRV and L hardjo in its Regional Laboratories. This article discusses the use of these tests, with particular emphasis on practical and cost‐effective approaches.
Conducting clinical trials in practice
Authors: Muniz Maria , Cox Adrian
Published: October 2010

FIELD clinical trials are an essential part of the process for bringing a new pharmaceutical product on to the market. Pharmaceutical companies increasingly need to recruit veterinary practitioners who are willing to participate as field investigators in such trials. In this article, Maria Muniz and Adrian Cox explain the role of the field investigator within the structure of a clinical trial.
Redundancy: the procedure to follow
Authors: Lloyd Reg
Published: October 2010

OCCASIONALLY, a veterinary practice may need to make one or more of its employees redundant, if, say, rationalising practice work and dispensing with an unprofitable area of activity. In order to avoid claims of unfair dismissal being made by those employees, it is necessary to follow a strict procedure. In this article, Reg Lloyd outlines the circumstances under which an employee may be made redundant and the procedure that must be adhered to.
Developing a healthy flock
Authors: Lewis Chris
Published: October 2010

THE introduction of purchased sheep, whether into an existing flock or to restock a property slaughtered out because of foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD), is fraught with problems, the greatest of which is the introduction of disease with the purchased animals. The risks can be minimised by the adoption of sound biosecurity principles. On a practical level, there are several key areas that must be considered by the farmer working in collaboration with his or her veterinary surgeon and these are discussed in this article.
Clinical assessment of cataracts in dogs
Authors: Gould David
Published: October 2010

A CATARACT is an opacity of the lens or its capsule. Cataracts are a common cause of visual impairment and blindness in dogs and have a wide variety of aetiologies. As well as the disabling effect on an animal, cataracts also present important welfare considerations for the owner. Visual impairment in dogs may, for example, lead to increased nervousness, aggression and reluctance to exercise, all of which may adversely affect the owner‐pet relationship. Cataract surgery in humans has been revolutionised over the past few decades with the widespread introduction of phacoemulsification, a microsurgical technique that uses high frequency ultrasonic waves to fragment and remove a cataractous lens. Over the past 10 years, phacoemulsification has also gained popularity among veterinary ophthalmologists, and is now the treatment of choice for cataract surgery in dogs, with success rates of between 70 and 95 per cent having been reported. This article reviews the aetiology of cataract formation in dogs and suggests an approach to cataract assessment and referral. In addition, it provides a brief overview of the technique and prognosis for phacoemulsification cataract surgery in dogs.
A rational approach to dry cow therapy
Authors: Green Martin , Huxley Jon , Bradley Andrew
Published: October 2010

IN all areas of medicine, the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents has become a subject of much interest and debate. Concerns over the misuse of antibiotics centre on the possible build up of bacterial resistance and a fear of residues entering the food chain. The veterinary surgeon plays a pivotal role in the way in which antibacterial agents are used on the dairy farms under his/her care and dry cow therapy is probably the most commonly prescribed antibiotic product, with almost 4 tonnes of active ingredients being used in the year 2000. As with all medicines, it is essential that dry cow therapy is prescribed on a rational basis. The aim of this two‐part article is to describe current knowledge on udder health in the dry period and to use this to develop a logical approach to prescribing dry cow therapy. Part 2, which will be published in the next issue, will provide guidance on product selection.
Feline hypertension: pathophysiology, clinical signs and treatment options
Authors: Forster‐van Hijfte Myra
Published: October 2010

FELINE hypertension is being diagnosed with increasing frequency as more and more veterinary practices acquire the necessary equipment to perform indirect monitoring of blood pressure in cats. Mean arterial blood pressure is determined by the cardiac output (stroke volume x heart rate) and the peripheral vascular resistance. It is known to increase with age in cats, and patients suffering from the more common feline diseases such as chronic renal disease, hyperthyroidism and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are thought to be particularly susceptible to high blood pressure. While hypertension in cats usually occurs secondarily to other diseases, there is emerging evidence that primary hypertension exists in this species. However, the underlying mechanisms involved in the development of feline hypertension are still not fully understood and more research is required in this area. This article presents practical advice to assist in the early detection and management of the condition, which are key to preventing severe clinical disease.
Finding the best route to driving a practice car
Authors: Moore Andy
Published: October 2010

WHAT method of providing a practice car is the most tax efficient and represents the best value for money? What impact has this year's reform of the company car tax regime had and should a practice implement changes before next year's increase in National Insurance rates? In this article, Andy Moore considers the alternatives and throws light on the potentially bewildering options in the arrangements, ownership and opportunities available to the veterinary practice and the veterinary assistant.
Bleeding disorders in dogs
Authors: Johnstone Ian
Published: October 2010

THIS article reviews the pathogenesis, clinical and laboratory diagnosis, and treatment of the major acquired haemostatic disorders that have been described in the dog. As with inherited haemostatic disorders (see Part 1, In Practice, January 2002, pp 2‐10), the clinical expression of the bleeding associated with acquired disorders can sometimes be helpful in differentiating between primary (platelet or vascular) and secondary (coagulation) defects. However, unlike their inherited counterparts, acquired bleeding disorders usually result from multiple defects in the haemostatic response; since both primary and secondary defects may occur concurrently, the nature of the bleeding can vary considerably, and may show characteristics of both coagulation and platelet deficiencies. Appropriate haemostatic screening tests can provide valuable assistance in the detection and differentiation of these disorders.
Veterinary care of ferrets
Authors: Lloyd Maggie
Published: October 2010

FERRETS are susceptible to a wide range of diseases and their appearance in the consulting room may, at first sight, cause some alarm to the general practitioner. However, the principles of examination, diagnosis and treatment are the same as for the more familiar species, and can be just as successful. This article describes the approach to handling and clinical examination of ferrets and outlines how routine procedures may be carried out. An article in the next issue will discuss the diagnosis and management of the common clinical conditions of ferrets likely to be encountered in practice.
ECG interpretation in small animals
Authors: Martin Mike
Published: October 2010

THIS article, the first of three aimed at assisting those in practice in interpreting electrocardiograms (ECGs), discusses the electrical activity of the heart and how this relates to the complexes seen on an ECG. It also describes the clinical findings on auscultation and palpation of the pulse. It must be remembered that an ECG trace should always be interpreted in the light of a thorough clinical examination of the cardiovascular system, with particular attention being paid to heart rate and rhythm, pulse rate, and identification of pulse deficits, if present. The second article in the series, to be published in the next issue, will discuss the abnormalities associated with the conduction system of the heart. The final article, to be published in the May issue, will outline a practical approach to interpreting ECGs.
Making the right moves
Authors: Molyneux Jacqui
Published: October 2010

MOVING from one premises to another is a major undertaking, requiring careful thought and organisation. Five years ago, Jacqui Molyneux's practice moved from its original building into purpose‐built premises next door. Here, she describes the preparation for, and practicalities of, transferring the entire practice ‐ and one or two things that, with hindsight, she might have done differently.
Taking time out of practice to combine travel and study
Authors: McNeill Ewan , McNeill Brin
Published: October 2010

THE opportunity to escape the pressures of practice for a while and combine a period of travel with time spent pursuing a veterinary interest is something that would, no doubt, appeal to many in practice. Here, Ewan and Brin McNeill, past‐recipients of the Frank Beattie/BSAVA Travel Scholarship, discuss experiences of their study tours in the USA and offer some guidance for anyone harbouring similar ambitions.
ECG interpretation in small animals
Authors: Martin Mike
Published: October 2010

ABNORMALITIES in the conduction system of the heart are associated with faults in either the generation of the impulse from the sinoatrial node or abnormalities in conduction through specialised tissues such as the atrioventricular node, the bundle of His or the Purkinje system. This article describes the clinical findings on auscultation and palpation of the pulse relating to these abnormalities and how these translate to the complexes seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG). An article in the last issue discussed the electrical activity of the heart. A third article, to be published in the next issue, will outline a practical approach to interpreting ECGs.
Ultrasonography of the equine abdomen: techniques and normal findings
Authors: Freeman Sarah
Published: October 2010

ABDOMINAL ultrasonography is increasingly used in veterinary medicine and has an important role in decision‐making in horses with colic. The technique has been used predominantly in foals and smaller horses, where rectal palpation is not possible, but is also a valuable diagnostic aid in the adult horse. It enables the veterinary surgeon to image regions of the abdomen that are inaccessible to rectal palpation, such as the duodenum and stomach. It allows abnormal rectal findings to be confirmed and, in many cases, provides further information. For example, rectal palpation may detect distended loops of small intestine, but ultrasonography will determine the degree of distension, any thickening of the intestinal wall, and the presence or absence of motility. Based on this, features that distinguish between surgical and non‐surgical lesions can be identified. This, the first of two articles discussing the use of ultrasonography in the equine acute abdomen, describes the techniques of abdominal ultrasonography, and normal ultrasonographic findings. The second article, to be published in the next issue, will describe ultrasonographic changes occurring in the colic patient.
Lamneness and associated pain in cattle ‐ challenging traditional perceptions
Authors: O'Callaghan Karen
Published: October 2010

LAMENESS in cattle continues to be one of the largest financial drains on the UK dairy industry. Pain and discomfort associated with lameness may be prolonged and result in unacceptably poor welfare of the affected animal. All too often, appropriate treatment is delayed or neglected due, in part, to lack of recognition, compounded by some common misconceptions regarding pain in this species and the paucity of licensed veterinary products. This article aims to dispel some of those misconceptions and highlight the benefits of controlling pain when treating lame cattle.
Revalidation and virtual patients: a vision of the future?
Authors: Michell Bob
Published: October 2010

WITH the medical and veterinary professions coming under increasing scrutiny from both the Government and the public, clinical 'competence to practise' requires regular reassessment and revalidation. The medical profession has forged ahead in this respect. The veterinary profession, meanwhile, needs to contemplate its approach and develop appropriate systems. There are lessons to be learned not only from the medical field but also, suggests Professor Bob Michell, from the aviation industry. In this article, he discusses some options that the veterinary profession might consider.
Dealing with a simulated rabies outbreak: a test of teamwork
Authors: Blayney Nick
Published: October 2010

RECENT epizootiological events have reinforced the need for contingency planning in anticipation of outbreaks of notifiable disease. In this article, Nick Blayney, who took part as a veterinary surgeon in practice, gives an account of a one‐day exercise staged by Warwickshire County Council, prior to February 2001, to test the official response to a hypothetical incident of rabies.
Looking for pastures new: a change of career direction
Authors: Laurence Chris
Published: October 2010

THREE years ago, after almost 30 years in practice, and with a mid‐life crisis looming, Chris Laurence embarked on a career redirection, swapping financial security and a settled existence for an entirely new set of challenges provided by the post of Assistant Chief Veterinary Officer of the RSPCA. Here, he gives a personal account of life along the way.
Rational selection of gastrointestinal drugs for cats and dogs
Authors: Hall Edward
Published: October 2010

THE rational selection of drugs to treat gastrointestinal disease depends on making an accurate diagnosis. A number of products are available for the treatment of specific conditions and others for the control of associated clinical signs such as vomiting and diarrhoea. However, the need for, and efficacy of, some of these symptomatic remedies is questionable as most gastrointestinal disturbances are acute and selflimiting; ideally, therefore, they should only be used after conditions for which there is specific treatment available have been excluded. If a definitive diagnosis is not possible, symptomatic therapies should only be used for a short period (up to a maximum of 72 hours) so that definitive treatment is not dangerously delayed. For example, masking the signs of an intestinal obstruction by using antiemetics will only delay surgery while the viability of the gastrointestinal tract (and the patient) deteriorates. This article describes the mode of action of the various drugs available for the management of gastrointestinal disease in cats and dogs, and provides practical advice on when ‐ and when not ‐ to use them.
Taking time out of practice to pursue a unique learning experience
Authors: Ness Malcolm
Published: October 2010

FRUSTRATED by the disappointing outcome of conventional surgery for the repair of cranial cruciate ligament ruptures in many dogs, Malcolm Ness was fascinated to hear of a new technique ‐ TPLO ‐ that was being used with great success in the USA. When presented with the opportunity to learn the procedure for himself from the expert, it seemed too good to miss. Here, he describes the experience, and reflects on whether, with hindsight, it was worth the time out of practice and its impact on the practice in other ways.
Budget 2002 ‐ implications for veterinary practice
Authors: Gunn Dixon
Published: October 2010

IN his annual review of the implications for veterinary practices of the Chancellor's Budget, Dixon Gunn explains that, although many of the changes announced on April 17 will not take effect until next year, practices should plan for their impact well in advance.
Personality and its impact in the workplace
Authors: Stobbs Christine
Published: October 2010

WHAT constitutes personality, how is it shaped and what steps can you take to ensure that personality in the workplace is used to the advantage of the practice and does not cause serious rifts? In this article, Christine Stobbs explores the nature of personality and discusses how it can impact on the working environment.
Decision making in the management of severe limb trauma
Authors: Ness Malcolm
Published: October 2010

THE veterinary surgeon charged with the care of a patient with a severely traumatised limb should never lose sight of the fact that his or her first duty is to save the patient and any thoughts of saving, salvaging or repairing a limb must come second to dealing with any life‐threatening injuries. The fact that a limb can be salvaged does not necessarily mean that it should. Amputation is simple, relatively inexpensive and predictable in its outcome and, following severe limb trauma, can render a patient mobile and painfree within a remarkably short period of time. Amputation should always be considered, especially in smaller, less active or aged patients whose quality of life is not likely to be significantly impaired by the loss of a limb. Amputation also has a place in cases where financial constraints and/or lack of available expertise preclude a more complex approach. In cases which are genuinely beyond repair, the decisionmaking process is simple. However, often the decision to salvage or amputate is complex and heavily influenced by a number of subjective or non‐clinical factors. The aim of this article is to assist the clinician faced with a severely traumatised limb to plan a rational course of action tailored to the individual needs of each patient and client.