bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a changing animal health industry
Authors: Jones Bruce
Published: October 2010

THE animal health industry has undergone many changes in recent years. Here, Bruce Jones gives a personal view on developments in the industry and assesses the consequences for product development.
Current concepts in the diagnosis and management of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Nuttall Tim
Published: October 2010

ATOPIC dermatitis is a syndrome characterised by chronic itchy and inflamed skin which causes great distress to sufferers and concern to owners. Atopy is second only to fleas as a cause of skin disease in dogs and accounts for about 50 per cent of the author's referral caseload. Atopic dermatitis is also recognised in cats, and has been reported in horses and goats. It is usually associated with a hypersensitivity reaction to environmental allergens that are of little clinical significance in normal animals. Successful management of atopic dermatitis requires the implementation of several strategies, tailored to the individual patient. This article discusses the practicalities of, and underlying rationale for, currently recommended treatment regimens.
ECG interpretation in the horse
Authors: Menzies‐Gow Nicola
Published: October 2010

CARDIAC arrhythmias are common in horses, although the majority do not require antiarrhythmic therapy. If an arrhythmia is suspected on cardiac auscultation, electrocardiography will enable a definitive diagnosis to be made. However, in each case, the significance of the electrocardiographic findings must be interpreted in the light of the clinical signs exhibited by the horse. This involves evaluation of the cardiac rate and rhythm and detection of the presence of abnormal complexes. Unlike in small animals, little information can be obtained about enlargement of the cardiac chamber(s) in horses. This is because simultaneous depolarisation of the entire ventricular myocardium via the extensive Purkinje system means that the amplitude of the QRS complex is not related to chamber size. This article describes the key features which may be present on an electrocardiographic trace and discusses how these might be interpreted.
Urinary incontinence in adult bitches
Authors: Hotston Moore Alasdair
Published: October 2010

URINARY incontinence in the adult female dog is encountered fairly commonly in practice and is a frequent cause of referrals and advice calls to specialist centres. Urinary incontinence represents a significant concern to the owner, despite the fact that the affected animal often appears unaware of the problem. The significance is often due to the soiling of the household environment, but the condition may also result in infections of the urinary or genital tract and skin scalding. The cause of incontinence should be investigated prior to the initiation of treatment since, although the diagnosis may appear obvious, there are in fact a number of differential diagnoses to consider, for which the treatment and outcome are very different. This article outlines the general features of urinary incontinence in adult bitches and describes an approach to the investigation of the condition. Important differential diagnoses and treatment options will be discussed in an article in the next issue.
Bleedling disorders in dogs
Authors: Johnstone Ian
Published: October 2010

BLEEDING disorders are common in dogs, can be inherited or acquired, and are associated with either single or multiple defects in the haemostatic response. The clinical nature of the bleeding can sometimes be helpful in differentiating between primary (platelet or vascular) and secondary (coagulation) defects. In addition, laboratory testing aids in the detection and differentiation of bleeding disorders. Tests such as the buccal mucosal bleeding time (BMBT) and the activated clotting time (ACT) can be performed inhouse by the veterinary surgeon, and provide a rapid means of assessing the integrity of the primary and secondary haemostatic responses, respectively. Other haemostatic screening tests such as the platelet count, partial thromboplastin time (PTT), prothrombin time (PT) and thrombin clotting time (TCT) are readily available through veterinary diagnostic laboratories, and are often useful in identifying the nature of the haemostatic defect; these tests are performed on citrated plasma harvested from a carefully collected blood sample submitted according to the laboratory's directions. This article reviews the pathogenesis, clinical and laboratory diagnosis, and treatment of the major inherited haemostatic disorders that have been described in the dog. The more common acquired causes of excessive bleeding in the dog will be discussed in the next issue.
Causes, consequences and control of potassium imbalances in small animals
Authors: Skelly Barbara
Published: October 2010

POTASSIUM is central to the maintenance of a potential difference across cell membranes and therefore plays an important role in the automaticity of the heart and in the generation of nerve and muscle action potentials. It is also responsible for regulating DNA, protein and glycogen synthesis via its action as an enzyme cofactor. The clinical signs induced by potassium imbalance are varied and may mimic other diseases; the practitioner must be aware of the spectrum of clinical signs and know when to suspect either hyperkalaemia or hypokalaemia as the underlying reason. This article discusses the role of potassium in the body and the consequences of a disruption to potassium homeostasis with reference to the major clinical syndromes leading to hyperkalaemia or hypokalaemia in small animals. It also outlines an approach to the diagnosis and management of these diseases.
First job interview? An opportunity, not a problem
Authors: Walton Jenny
Published: October 2010

SOME of the trials and tribulations, from an employer's point of view, of the recruitment process were described on pages 96‐99. In this article, the tables are turned and Jenny Walton presents the job‐seeker's perspective. Given that veterinary interviews are as varied as the jobs themselves, the key to success, she says, is good preparation.
The chronically diarrhoeic dog
Authors: Chandler Marge
Published: October 2010

AS discussed in Part 1 (In Practice, January 2002, pp 18‐24), diarrhoea is described as chronic when it has been present, either constantly or intermittently, for longer than two weeks. A diagnostic approach to chronic diarrhoea of small intestinal origin was set out in that earlier article. This article outlines an approach to the diagnosis of diarrhoea of large intestinal origin before going on to consider a few specific diarrhoeic conditions.
Parasites of goats: a guide to diagnosis and control
Authors: Taylor Mike
Published: October 2010

GOATS share a number of diseases in common with sheep and cattle and this is particularly true with regard to parasitic infections. The most important endoparasitic diseases seen in goats are parasitic gastroenteritis caused by gastrointestinal nematodes, and coccidiosis caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria. Other internal parasitic infections seen in goats include cryptosporidiosis, a rapidly emerging zoonotic infection of domestic animals (and humans), adult tapeworms and several metacestodes, and insect larvae of the family Oestridae (bots and warbles). Ectoparasites may be found either permanently on goats (eg, mites and lice) or only when they come to feed (eg, ticks and flies). Such parasites may be a source of annoyance or may result in illthrift and disease. This article discusses the pathogenesis, diagnosis and control of the major endo‐ and ectoparasitic infections of goats.
Veterinary care of ferrets
Authors: Lloyd Maggie
Published: October 2010

FERRETS are susceptible to a variety of viral, bacterial, parasitic, non‐infectious and nutritional diseases. This article reviews the clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the more common clinical conditions seen in the pet and working ferret. An article in the last issue (In Practice, February 2002, pp 90‐95) discussed the handling and examination of ferrets and described a number of routine clinical and surgical procedures.
Endoparasites in the dog and cat
Authors: Fisher Maggie
Published: October 2010

THERE is a wide array of protozoal organisms which cause various diseases in dogs and cats, ranging from the exotic to the dangerous. With the large number of animals now travelling into and out of the UK under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), practitioners are more likely to encounter non‐endemic protozoal infections; such diseases can cause severe or fatal disease in some cases. This article reviews the current understanding of the protozoa affecting dogs and cats and describes an approach to diagnosis and control. The prevention and treatment of helminth infections was discussed in an earlier article (Fisher 2001).
Vascular access techniques in the dog and cat
Authors: White Rob
Published: October 2010

THE rapid and reliable attainment of vascular access may prove crucial for the provision of an effective therapeutic solution in the critically ill or emergency small animal patient. Although in such cases it is more common to consider venous vascular access for the administration of medication and for the measurement of venous pressures, the attainment of arterial vascular access may prove just as important, allowing the direct measurement of arterial blood pressure and the sampling of arterial blood. This article provides guidelines on appropriate catheter selection for vascular access, placement techniques for both venous and arterial access, and procedures required for the long‐term maintenance of these access sites.
Approach to the routine herd health visit
Authors: Borsberry Steve
Published: October 2010

THE aim of a routine herd health visit is to review current farm procedures and practices, and to advise on how these might be optimised and improved upon in order to maintain high standards of animal health and welfare. The efficiency and profitability of any farm enterprise is highly dependent on the interactions between farmer, farm staff and veterinary surgeon, and teamwork is crucial to achieving good results. This article discusses aspects of the routine herd health visit, with emphasis on areas where practical veterinary advice may be most usefully targeted.
Anorexia in rabbits
Authors: Harcourt‐Brown Frances
Published: October 2010

ANOREXIA is a common reason for pet rabbits to be presented for veterinary treatment and there is a long list of potential causes, including pain, stress, dental disease, chronic renal failure and various digestive disorders. Certain physiological characteristics of rabbits make them particularly vulnerable to the effects of anorexia and many will die without treatment. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is vital. This article describes the digestive physiology of rabbits and discusses the causes and effects of anorexia in this species. The diagnosis and treatment of anorexia in rabbits will be discussed in an article in the next issue.
Exotic species and the law
Authors: Cusdin Penny
Published: October 2010

EXOTIC pets are now regularly presented as patients in veterinary practice. In addition to the extra clinical knowledge required, veterinary surgeons should be aware of the legislation relating to such animals. In this article, Penny Cusdin considers the legalities of keeping an exotic pet, including the licensing and certification requirements, and offers advice to veterinary surgeons regarding their professional obligations as well as the dispensations that apply to them under the various pieces of legislation.
Routes to undertaking a certificate
Authors: Molyneux Jacqui
Published: October 2010

AN article in the last issue discussed the process of undertaking a postgraduate certificate within a university, as part of a residency programme (In Practice, June 2002, pp 341‐344). In this article, Jacqui Molyneux, who opted to pursue an RCVS certificate in small animal surgery while working in practice, discusses the other side of the coin. A successful outcome was again the result, but certain aspects of the process and pressures are unique to the practice‐based route.
Urinary tract infections in small animals: pathophysiology and diagnosis
Authors: Dunning Mark , Stonehewer Jo
Published: October 2010

URINARY tract infections (UTIs) reportedly account for between 5 and 10 per cent of canine and 0‐1 to 1 per cent of feline veterinary visits. In this, the first of two articles on the therapeutics of UTIs in dogs and cats, the aetiology and pathophysiology of these conditions are discussed and an approach to the diagnostic work‐up is outlined. The second article, to be published in the next issue, focuses on treatment options and the long‐term management of problem cases.
The rise of women in the profession
Authors: Brancker Mary
Published: October 2010

THE numbers of women joining the veterinary profession continue to rise, year on year. The challenges faced by many of today's female undergraduates differ considerably from those faced by their earlier counterparts, although some issues, such as finance, remain a perennial problem. In the first of an occasional series looking at the changing perceptions and experiences of women in the veterinary profession over the decades, Mary Brancker describes life as an undergraduate in the 1930s, her subsequent career and those of her female peers.
Urinary tract infections in small animals: therapeutic options and management of problem cases
Authors: Dunning Mark , Stonehewer Jo
Published: October 2010

AN article in the last issue (September 2002, pp 418‐432) discussed the aetiology and pathophysiology of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs and cats and outlined an approach to the diagnostic work‐up. This article describes the treatment options for UTIs and the strategies for long‐term control as well as control in recurrent cases. It is important that underlying causes are determined (see previous article) and resolved, where possible, prior to the initiation of therapy. UTIs occurring secondarily to underlying conditions may not be appropriately managed by antibiotic therapy alone.
Sources of finance for assistants investing in a practice
Authors: Gripper Peter
Published: October 2010

THE majority of veterinary practices are run as independent businesses, and it will be the aim and ambition of many veterinary assistants ultimately to own a practice ‐ either in partnership or as sole owner. A big step in making this ambition a reality is finding the necessary funds. In this article, Peter Gripper looks at possible sources of finance and discusses what is involved in the process of arranging a loan.
Incorporating client counselling in practice
Authors: McNeill Brin
Published: October 2010

THE veterinary profession is perceived as being, and is proud to be, a caring profession, but as it strives in the pursuit of scientific excellence, is there the risk that the art of veterinary medicine may sometimes get overlooked? In this article, Brin McNeill suggests some simple ways in which practices can extend the care and support they offer to distressed and bereaved pet owners through the provision of client counselling.
A practical approach to CPD planning and delivery
Authors: Clarke Carole
Published: October 2010

THE ever‐increasing number of CPD courses and information sources available to vets means that practices taking a more focused approach to organising their staff training are likely to reap the most rewards. Here, Carole Clarke describes how CPD is planned for within her six‐vet small animal hospital.
Bovine tuberculosis: clinical update and on‐farm advice
Authors: Cobner Andrew
Published: October 2010

IN the wake of the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks, bovine tuberculosis (TB) is now generally perceived to represent the greatest threat to cattle health in the UK. The incidence of bovine TB is rising, both in terms of the number of herds affected and in the number of cases per affected herd. Bovine TB is caused by Mycobacterium bovis, is characterised by the progressive development of granulomatous lesions (tubercles) in any body organ and can affect a large number of species, including humans. This article discusses how bovine TB is transmitted and diagnosed in cattle, and suggests some protocols for disease prevention and control.
Viruses and the practice computer: keeping the bogeyman at bay
Authors: Easson Will
Published: October 2010

COMPUTER viruses and 'worms' are an all‐too‐common occurrence in today's on‐line world and it is easy to become paranoid and to stop using computer systems and networks to their full potential, for fear of 'catching a virus'. At the same time, viruses are blamed inappropriately for many unrelated computer faults, and also spread distrust and fear of other on‐line users. This article is intended to allay fears, but at the same time instil a consistent and rigorous approach to security and contingency planning for practice computer systems.
Enteral nutrition: options and feeding protocols
Authors: Yam Philippa , Cave Clare
Published: October 2010

MALNUTRITION can be described as a disorder of inadequate or unbalanced nutrition resulting from either nutritional deficiencies or excessive nutrient intakes. Malnutrition seen in veterinary practice is often due to decreased total food intake. There are many reasons why it is important for nutrition to be maintained, particularly in the sick animal. Studies have shown that malnutrition causes decreased immunocompetence, reduced tissue synthesis and repair, and altered drug metabolism. In humans, malnutrition has also been demonstrated to be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Although anorexia has been considered a secondary problem, occurring as a result of other disease processes, animals are likely to have a more favourable outcome if nutritional support, such as enteral or parenteral nutrition, is provided. This article outlines how to identify those animals in need of nutritional support, describes the various methods by which enteral nutrition can be delivered and highlights some potential complications which might arise.
Investigation of diarrhoea in the neonatal calf
Authors: Bazeley Katrine
Published: October 2010

DIARRHOEA is very common in the calf and can have an impact both economically and in terms of animal welfare. Losses are due to death, treatment costs and time spent on care, as well as subsequent chronic illthrift and poor growth. While it may be convenient to focus on the principal infectious causes of calf diarrhoea, it is important to remember that it is generally the result of interaction between a number of related risk factors. Mixed infections are frequently seen and clinical signs are usually more severe where more than one pathogen is involved. This article discusses the causative agents and risk factors associated with the development of diarrhoea in the calf and describes an approach to the investigation of clinical disease.
Control of nematode infections in captive birds
Authors: Lloyd Chris
Published: October 2010

AVIAN parasitic nematodes are most frequently found within the gastrointestinal system although a number of species show a predilection for other parts of the body such as the air sacs (Serratospiculum species), trachea (Syngamus trachea, Cyathostoma species), sinuses (Cyathostoma species) or central nervous system (Baylisascaris species). Methods of control in captive birds vary depending on the husbandry requirements of the host species and the life cycle of the nematode. This article briefly reviews relevant diagnostic techniques and discusses the basic principles of nematode control in captive birds.
Disease risks for the travelling pet: Hepatozoonosis
Authors: Baneth Gad
Published: October 2010

THIS article discusses the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of hepatozoonosis, a haemoparasitic disease transmitted by the ingestion of an arthropod vector. Two different species of Hepatozoon infect dogs ‐ Hepatozoon canis in the Old World and South America, and Hepatozoon americanum in the southern USA. H canis infection varies from being asymptomatic in dogs with a low parasitaemia, to causing severe disease with anaemia, profound lethargy and cachexia in dogs with large numbers of circulating parasites. H americanum infection manifests mainly as gait abnormalities and musculoskeletal pain due to myositis and periosteal bone lesions. Feline hepatozoonosis is associated with muscular pathology and is often reported in conjunction with a retroviral disease. The diagnosis of hepatozoonosis relies mainly on the detection of blood gamonts in the case of H canis infection, and on muscle biopsy showing tissue cysts and pyogranulomas for H americanum infection. Therapy for both forms of the disease involves long‐term treatment with combinations of antiprotozoal drugs. The control of hepatozoonosis in small animals relies on effective use of topical parasiticides and prevention of ingestion of blood‐sucking arthropod hosts by animals when grooming or scavenging.
The rise of women in the profession
Authors: Aitken Maureen
Published: October 2010

ALTHOUGH the 1960s were a time of great social change, the veterinary profession remained male‐dominated, with very few women being accepted on to courses at veterinary schools in the UK and Ireland. However, Maureen Aitken was one of a group of five young women who commenced their veterinary studies at the Glasgow school in 1960. Here, she describes her life as a student and a postgraduate at Glasgow, and highlights the achievements of her female contemporaries.
Budget 2003 ‐ implications for veterinary practice
Authors: Gunn Dixon
Published: October 2010

ACCORDING to Dixon Gunn, the Chancellor's 2003 Budget was relatively thin; the most significant change was set in train last year. Here, he highlights aspects of the Budget which practices should be aware of.
Tax credits: a decreasing burden on employers?
Authors: Swan Phil , Lightowlers Kirsty
Published: October 2010

TWO new tax credits were introduced in April, having been announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in last year's Budget. The Inland Revenue claims that these new credits ‐ which have replaced the Working Families and Children's Tax Credits ‐ are intended to lessen the administrative burden on employers. In this article, Phil Swan and Kirsty Lightowlers explain how the new tax credits differ from the previous schemes, and speculate on what impact they are likely to have on practice owners.
Investigation and differential diagnosis of vomiting in the dog
Authors: Elwood Clive
Published: October 2010

VOMITING is a common presenting complaint in canine clinical practice and dogs seem particularly prone to vomiting without much encouragement. It is part of the clinician's role to determine whether vomiting is frequent enough or associated with other clinical signs that indicate a need for treatment or further investigation. Ultimately, a correct diagnosis and appropriate management depend on good clinical practice and, as discussed in this article, a logical approach to the investigation. At each stage, careful assessment is required to ensure that diagnostic tests are suitably discriminatory. Results must be critically appraised and related back to the clinical presentation of the patient at all times.
Managemnent of splint bone fractures in horses
Authors: Kidd Jessica
Published: October 2010

FRACTURES of the splint bone in horses are commonly seen in practice. Fractures of the distal splint bone are mainly encountered in performance horses and occur at exercise, while fractures of the proximal splint bone are traumatic in origin and usually have an associated wound and infection. When investigating lameness or a wound localised to the region of the cannon bone, splint bone fractures can often be overlooked due to the vestigial nature of the splint bones and their close relationship to the cannon bone, the suspensory ligament and synovial structures at both their proximal and distal extents. A diagnosis of suspensory desmitis should always suggest possible involvement of the splint bones and radiography should be carried out to assess this; any wound of the cannon bone, especially one which occurs medially or laterally, should also be investigated for potential injuries involving the splint bones. If left undiagnosed, splint bone fractures associated with a suspensory desmitis can prolong recovery and also exacerbate the desmitis due to callus formation impinging on the suspensory ligament. Any fractures of the splint bone associated with trauma that are overlooked can lead to persistent infection, failure of wound healing and sequestrum formation even in the face of minimal lameness. This article discusses the management of fractures of the distal and proximal splint bones in horses.
Diagnosis and management of viral diseases in psittacine birds
Authors: Girling Simon
Published: October 2010

AVIAN species are susceptible to a wide range of viral diseases. With the increasing trade in psittacine species worldwide, more and more of these viruses are making their way to the shores of the UK. Practitioners are therefore more likely to be confronted with new avian viruses, a worrying thought considering the recent outbreak in the USA of West Nile virus, the main host of which is avian species. This article describes the viruses that may be encountered in birds in practice and highlights the species commonly affected. In each case, it outlines the clinical signs produced, and discusses how the virus spreads and how it might be diagnosed. It suggests control measures and, where available, methods of treatment which may be instituted in the event of an outbreak. The viruses are considered in order of decreasing incidence.
Articular and periarticular fractures in the dog and cat
Authors: Macias Carlos , McKee Malcolm
Published: October 2010

ARTICULAR and periarticular fractures are common in the dog and cat and, from the point of view of treatment, are often very unforgiving injuries. Failure to deal with these fractures appropriately may result in the development of significant degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) and periarticular fibrosis and adhesions, which, in turn, may lead to permanent loss of joint and limb function. Open reduction and internal fixation is generally indicated, and postoperative care is an extremely important aspect of management. This article reviews the various types of articular and periarticular fractures, and discusses the management and prognosis of the most common of these injuries in dogs and cats (with the exception of distal limb fractures and fractures involving shear injuries). Postoperative care techniques and potential complications are also described.
Emotional intelligence: how important is a high 'EQ'?
Authors: Stobbs Christine
Published: October 2010

EMOTIONAL intelligence is a new buzzword in business ‐ but what is it and why might it be important in veterinary practice? In this article, Christine Stobbs explains that a high IQ needs to be complemented by a high 'EQ' ‐ that is, a high level of emotional intelligence ‐ to enable veterinary surgeons to get the best out of themselves and those around them.
A practical approach to diarrhoea in the adult horse
Authors: Hillyer Mark
Published: October 2010

DIARRHOEA in the adult horse may be due to a number of different causes and, in the field, multiple examinations may be required before a diagnosis is reached. However, in any individual case, the diagnosis may remain elusive, even on postmortem examination. One review of adult horses with diarrhoea referred to university equine clinics reported a confirmed diagnosis in 73 per cent of cases, but the diagnosis was achieved antemortem in only 29 per cent of these animals. As a result, the management of a horse with diarrhoea frequently has to be non‐empirical and symptomatic. Often, the use of specific treatments is directed by clinical expectation rather than definitive diagnostic information. This article reviews the possible causes of diarrhoea in the adult horse and their salient characteristics, and describes an approach to the management of the condition. Where possible, an 'in the field' approach is adopted, which is particularly relevant to the management of horses with diarrhoea as the potential for the involvement of an infectious agent (primarily Salmonella species) means that hospitalisation and referral are usually not recommended.
Differential diagnosis and treatment of facial skin diseases in dogs
Authors: Perrins Natalie , Bond Ross
Published: October 2010

A WIDE range of diseases of varying aetiology may affect the facial skin of dogs, and these may or may not involve the nasal planum. As the specific therapies and management of many of these conditions are quite different and potent, a definitive diagnosis is vital. This article discusses some of the skin diseases which may principally affect the face, providing information on presentation, diagnosis and treatment. It also outlines a diagnostic approach to facial dermatoses in dogs, emphasising the importance of history taking, clinical examination and routine diagnostic tests.
Emergency management of the acute abdomen in dogs and cats
Authors: House Arthur , Brockman Daniel
Published: October 2010

AN article in the last issue of In Practice (October 2004, pp 476‐483) reviewed the investigation and medical stabilisation of dogs and cats with an acute abdomen. This article describes a range of conditions that cause acute abdominal pain which are best managed surgically. It also emphasises the importance of postoperative care for optimising patient recovery.
On becoming a vet. . . part 3
Authors: Clarke Zoe
Published: October 2010

IN the third part of this series documenting the early careers of past winners of the Vet Drug/Genusxpress 'student of the year' awards, Zoe Clarke and, on page 108, Andrew Vawer recount the agony and the ecstasy of their transition from lecture theatre to consulting room.
Lameness in sheep 1. Diagnosis
Authors: Winter Agnes
Published: October 2010

LAMENESS remains one of the most important welfare issues affecting the sheep industry. Recent estimates suggest that over 80 per cent of flocks contain lame sheep, with a prevalence in some flocks of over 9 per cent for footrot and over 15 per cent for scald. It is difficult to put a figure on what might be considered an acceptable prevalence, as any lame sheep should be a cause for concern; however, in practical terms, a prevalence of 5 per cent or more should certainly prompt an investigation of the cause and implementation of a control programme. This article discusses the differential diagnosis of foot lameness in growing and adult sheep (lameness in young lambs will not be considered). Part 2, which will be published in the next issue, will describe the options for treatment and control.
Pre‐breeding checks for mares
Authors: Pycock Jonathan
Published: October 2010

EVALUATION of the reproductive system in a mare should assess whether she has the potential to become pregnant and carry a foal successfully through to term. While unforeseen problems can always occur, there are a group of procedures, collectively known as a 'pre‐breeding check', that can help to decide whether or not a mare is suitable for breeding. The suitability for breeding does not refer to the quality of the mare or her temperament; rather it is an assessment of the genital health of that particular animal. This article describes a clinical protocol for the investigation of the reproductive system of a mare prior to breeding that can readily be performed by a veterinary surgeon under normal conditions. The results of such an examination should be recorded in a systematic and accurate manner.
Rumen healthcare in the dairy cow
Authors: Grove‐White Dai
Published: October 2010

DRAMATIC increases in milk yields in recent decades have created challenges in terms of the dietary management of dairy herds. New feeding systems, which aim to satisfy the energy requirements of lactating cows, have implications for both rumen pH and microbial health ‐ factors which ultimately impact on dairy cow health. Increasingly, it is being recognised that an imbalanced or inadequate diet, particularly with regard to its energy and long fibre content, can lead to subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) ‐ an insidious, yet severe production‐limiting condition, which is well defined in the USA and appears to be just as relevant in the UK. This article provides guidance for veterinary surgeons on working with their farmer clients to recognise SARA and manage the risk factors associated with the disease.
Diseases of the digestive tract of psittacine birds
Authors: Girling Simon
Published: October 2010

MEMBERS of the order Psittaciformes are prone to many infectious and husbandry‐related conditions and, like many birds, they frequently mask any signs of illness until very late in the course of disease as a survival strategy to prevent predator attack of a weak or sickly individual. However, some of the more obvious signs of disease, such as vomiting, regurgitation, diarrhoea and loss of condition, are seen in cases of gastrointestinal disorders. The term 'diarrhoea' may not always be a strictly accurate one, as polyuria also causes the production of watery droppings due to the fact that the cloaca functions as a communal collecting chamber for both the digestive and urinary systems. It may therefore be difficult to distinguish between these two conditions. This article describes the diagnosis and approach to treatment of the more common gastrointestinal diseases in psittacine birds.
Dealing with line and hook injuries in swans
Authors: Cracknell Jonathan
Published: October 2010

MUTE swans (Cygnus olor) are one of Britain's largest and most popular wild birds. They are usually presented to veterinary surgeons with injuries involving angling equipment such as hooks, line, weights, floats or a combination of these items. Despite the ban on the use of lead weights in angling, swans still manage to pick up discarded weights that have remained in the environment from before the ban or from the few irresponsible anglers who continue to use lead weights. Lead poisoning is a pathological condition in itself, but can also underlie other diseases which occur secondarily to heavy metal‐induced immunodeficiency. This article discusses the various types of line and hook injury that are seen in swans and describes how they may be treated. In certain cases of line or hook injury, there may be concurrent heavy metal poisoning and this should always be tested for.
Clinical update on feline respiratory pathogens
Authors: Dawson Susan , Radford Alan , Gaskell Rosalind
Published: October 2010

INFECTIOUS respiratory disease in cats is a significant clinical problem. It is most commonly seen where cats are grouped together and especially in young kittens. Two viruses ‐ feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV) ‐ have been known for many years to be involved in the aetiology of feline respiratory disease while, more recently, other pathogens, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, have also been found to be important. The role of other bacteria and mycoplasmas has not been fully established as yet. Chlamydophila felis is more frequently associated with predominantly conjunctival disease and, although upper respiratory tract signs may also occur, these are generally mild. This article describes some of the most important features of the three main respiratory pathogens, FHV, FCV and B bronchiseptica.
Ophthalmic examination equipment ‐ toy or tool?
Authors: Jones Gareth ‘Moz’
Published: October 2010

BITTEN by the ophthalmic bug but with nothing more than a direct ophthalmoscope at your disposal? In this article, Gareth Jones explains how the budding ophthalmologist can make the case for practice investment in more sophisticated tools for eye examination. He also describes how, given the constraints of the practice budget, the kit can be built up in a staged manner.
Disease risks for the travelling pet: Heartworm disease
Authors: Ferasin Luca
Published: October 2010

HEARTWORM disease is a parasitic infection caused by Dirofilaria immitis. This is a nematode (roundworm) that lives primarily in the pulmonary arteries and the right heart of dogs and, less commonly, cats and ferrets. The disease may sometimes affect other species, such as wild canids and felids, sealions and, sporadically, humans; however, these species are generally considered dead‐end hosts as the parasite does not reach full maturity and cannot complete its biological cycle. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquito bites and there are more than 70 species of mosquito that can potentially transmit the infection. This article discusses the epidemiology and pathogenesis of heartworm disease, as well as its diagnosis and management.
Healthcare in the modern dairy herd
Authors: Grove‐White Dai
Published: October 2010

AS the UK dairy industry continues to change, the role of the veterinary surgeon on the modern dairy farm has evolved and is increasingly that of an adviser, encompassing all aspects of health, productivity and welfare. Together with other specialists, such as nutritionists, housing consultants and breeding companies, the practitioner's involvement spans all areas of farm management. Undoubtedly, veterinary intervention in key areas such as farm assurance, fertility, nutrition, and disease monitoring and prevention can have a significant impact on the productivity of a unit. This article reviews these areas, providing examples of where veterinary effort may best be directed. Future articles in In Practice will elaborate on specific elements of veterinary input into the dairy enterprise.
Ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma: the story to date
Authors: Salvatori Daniela , de las Heras Marcelo , Sharp Mike
Published: October 2010

TUMOURS are generally uncommon in domestic livestock, but small ruminants are unusual because two neoplastic diseases ‐ ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (OPA) and enzootic nasal adenocarcinoma of sheep and goats ‐ can affect many animals in countries and flocks where they are endemic. These diseases can be transmitted experimentally, but do not seem to affect cattle or other animals. They are contagious and caused by two distinct but closely related betaretroviruses. Both types of tumour arise from secretory epithelial cells that retain their secretory function after transformation. OPA is produced by a tumour in the lungs of sheep; the tumour has also been seen in goats and wild moufflon, but more rarely. The disease has been recognised in over 20 countries spanning Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia, and in a wide variety of breeds. Studies in Britain and South Africa show that OPA accounts for almost 70 per cent of all sheep tumours. As discussed in this article, recent studies have thrown light on the aetiology, pathogenesis and epidemiology of OPA and this, in turn, has led to current research efforts to develop preclinical diagnostic tests for the disease.
Trading structures for veterinary practices
Authors: Moore Andy
Published: October 2010

TRADITIONALLY, the options for structuring a veterinary practice were restricted to the sole principal set‐up or the partnership and, although the RCVS relaxed the rules governing trading structures for practices some years ago, these remain the most common trading vehicles in the profession. In the first of two articles, Andy Moore looks at the different trading structures that are available for veterinary businesses and, in the light of changes in the tax treatment for some of these structures, outlines the various opportunities and drawbacks that come with each one.
Monitoring the diabetic dog
Authors: Petrie Grant
Published: October 2010

A GOOD understanding of the clinical signs, goals of therapy and available monitoring techniques is important for the successful management of dogs with diabetes mellitus. The best monitoring 'tool' is the dog's owner ‐ despite the array of tests available to monitor diabetics, the absence of the cardinal clinical signs of disease probably remains the most reliable indicator of good diabetic control. This article discusses the techniques that may be used, both at home and in the clinic, for monitoring diabetics, emphasising the benefit of serial glucose measurements and the 'glucose curve'. An accompanying article, on pages 421 to 430 of this issue, looks at how monitoring tests can influence management changes to restore good glycaemic control and resolve clinical signs in problem cases.
Monitoring the diabetic dog
Authors: Petrie Grant
Published: October 2010

THE first part of this article, on pages 411 to 418 of this issue, explained how a good understanding of the clinical signs, goals of therapy and techniques available for monitoring diabetes mellitus is important in the successful management of diabetic dogs. The aim of this article is to illustrate how, with appropriate monitoring, good glycaemic control can be restored and clinical signs resolved in problem cases. Case details relating to six poorly controlled diabetic dogs are presented and the reader is challenged to assess the information and to determine how diabetic management might be improved. A discussion follows each case.
Emergency management of the acute abdomen in dogs and cats
Authors: Boag Amanda , Hughes Dez
Published: October 2010

MANAGEMENT of an animal with an acute abdomen presents one of the greatest challenges in veterinary emergency medicine. This clinical syndrome has a large number of possible causes, many of which require urgent surgery to optimise the chances of a successful outcome. Rapid assessment of the patient's major body systems (particularly the cardiovascular system) and early institution of supportive medical therapy are a priority while a definitive diagnosis is sought and a suitable treatment plan is formulated. This article describes key aspects of the investigation and initial stabilisation of dogs and cats with an acute abdomen. An article in the next issue of In Practice will discuss the surgical treatment of acute abdominal conditions in small animals.
Approach to conducting bull breeling soundness examinations
Authors: McGowan Michael
Published: October 2010

THE major objectives of conducting bull breeding soundness examinations are to improve the quality of decision making with respect to the selection and management of bulls and to minimise the risk of the farmer mating a subfertile or infertile bull to his/her herd. The fertility and genetic potential of bulls significantly affects the overall productivity and production efficiency of naturally mated beef and dairy herds. The fertility status and genetic merit of an individual bull has a far greater impact on herd performance than those of an individual cow ‐ a fact that is often not fully appreciated by farmers. This article discusses a step‐by‐step approach to the bull breeding soundness examination with the aim of assisting the veterinary surgeon to provide a professional opinion about a bull's likely fertility status.
Demystifying diagnostic testing: serology
Authors: Burr Paul , Snodgrass David
Published: October 2010

IT has been recognised since the time of Louis Pasteur that factors providing immunity could be found in serum. These proteins (antibodies) are produced by the body in response to the presence of foreign proteins (antigens), which stimulate an immune response. Antibodies usually bind specifically to the antigen which stimulated their production. This specificity, coupled with the ready accessibility of blood serum for analysis, has led to the widespread use of antibodies as aids to disease diagnosis. The measurement of antigen‐antibody reactions for diagnostic purposes is known as serology. This article describes the underlying principles and common applications of various serological tests employed in the veterinary field. By way of an introduction, it briefly reviews antibody production and the types of antibodies relevant to diagnostic serology.
Problems of antibiotic resistance in pigs in the UK
Authors: Burch David
Published: October 2010

THE fact that large quantities of antimicrobials are used in pig production in the UK has led to the assumption that antimicrobial resistance must be posing major problems. This, in turn, raises a number of pertinent questions. For example, do veterinary practitioners feel that resistance is compromising the successful treatment of their patients? Are antimicrobials overused in pigs or are they not used prudently? Finally, does antimicrobial use in pigs have an adverse effect on humans, either directly from the transmission of resistant zoonotic pathogens or indirectly through the transmission of antimicrobial resistance via commensal organisms? This article reviews recent data on antimicrobial usage and resistance problems in pigs, with a view to shedding light on these questions and related issues.
Making the grade: a practitioner's role in student selection
Authors: Head John
Published: October 2010

THE involvement of practitioners in interviewing candidates applying to the veterinary schools has, over the past decade or so, become an accepted part of the procedure for entering the veterinary profession. But what is required of those practitioners who give up their time to sit on interview panels, and what do they get out of the process? Here, the tables are turned on John Head, who answers some questions – and poses a few more.
Radiography of the horse 3. Distal cannon bone and fetlock joint
Authors: Booth Todd , Weaver Martin
Published: October 2010

LAMENESS referable to the metacarpophalangeal (fetlock) joint is common and, in one study, was found to account for 14 per cent of lameness cases in a thoroughbred population. Fractures in the fetlock region are seen mainly in horses working at speed, whereas chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, occur in many types of horse. Although facilities for ultrasonography, scintigraphy, thermography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are becoming increasingly widespread, radiography is still the mainstay technique for imaging the fetlock. Excellent radiographic images are attainable with a little practice and are often diagnostically rewarding. However, the fetlock joint is complex and diagnosis can be challenging ‐ subtle changes can frequently be clinically important, while other more marked findings may not be a cause of lameness. This article describes how to radiograph this region and provides examples of radiological conditions commonly seen in practice.
Optimising the health, productivity and welfare of dairy cattle: fertility management
Authors: Borsberry Steve
Published: October 2010

IN the USA, it is not unusual for conception rates in dairy herds to be as low as 22 per cent and it is of concern that, in the UK, the overall conception rate is approximately 40 per cent and declining by about 1 per cent every three years. At the same time, heat detection (submission) rates are currently 50 per cent. The arguments put forward to explain this decline in fertility are, first, that yields and herd sizes have greatly increased, creating management difficulties in terms of supplying adequate nutritional energy; and, secondly, that there has been an accompanying radical change in breed structure. In 1975, the UK black and white herds were 100 per cent British Friesian in their genetic make‐up. By 1997, it was estimated that these herds contained 80 per cent North American Holstein genetics. Has there been a disregard of the heritability of fertility over the past 25 years and a reduction in heterosis? Meanwhile, the question of the optimal calving index remains to be answered. This article, part of an occasional series discussing key aspects of veterinary input into the dairy enterprise, reviews factors affecting reproductive efficiency and points to areas where effort may best be directed in terms of fertility management.
A clean bill of health: practice hygiene
Authors: Cherry Simon
Published: October 2010

RECENT publicity about MRSA has highlighted the importance of hygiene systems in veterinary practices. Standard sanitary operating procedures (SSOPs) enable practices to ensure that cleaning is done as specified, that records are available to confirm this, and that corrective measures are taken if problems are found. Here, Simon Cherry outlines how to set up a system of SSOPs.