bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facilitating pet ownership through improved housing design
Authors: Jackson Virginia Sarah Sandford
Published: December 2023

To date, urban planners have had only a marginal interest in urban pet management. However, they have a potential role to play through application of urban design principles that may improve the quality of pets’ lives and reduce problems. The design principles appropriate to pets have been recently identified. These principles are part of a worldwide movement to improve housing design, with guidelines for various considerations that have been misunderstood or ignored in the past. Veterinarians have a role to play in alerting their clients to the need to consider the quality of their pets’ environment and in acting as advocates in relation to urban animal management and regulation.
Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy in Dalmatians: Nine cases (1990–1995)
Authors: Freeman Lisa M. , Michel Kathryn E. , Brown Donald J. , Kaplan Paul M. , Stamoulis Mark E. , Rosenthal Steven L. , Keene Bruce W. , Rush John E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe the historical, clinical, and echocardiographic findings in Dalmatians with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Design

Retrospective case series.

Sample Population

9 Dalmatians with a diagnosis of DCM and congestive heart failure (CHF), 9 Doberman Pinschers with DCM and CHF, and 9 dogs of other breeds with DCM and CHF.

Procedure

Disease history; signalment; physical, radiographic, and echocardiographic examination findings; treatment; and outcome from medical records were analyzed.

Results

All Dalmatians were male, with a mean age of 6.8 years. Eight dogs had been fed a commercially available low-protein diet formulated for the prevention of urate uroliths. All dogs had clinical signs consistent with left-sided CHF and had marked left ventricular systolic dysfunction and severe left ventricular dilatation, although arrhythmias were not an important finding in this series of dogs. Median duration of survival was 10 months.

Clinical Implications

The DCM syndrome in Dalmatians has some qualities that are distinct from DCM in other breeds of dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1592–1596)
Use of diagnostic ultrasonography in horses with signs of acute abdominal pain
Authors: Klohnen Andreas , Vachon Anne M. , Fischer Andrew T.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the use of abdominal ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool in horses with signs of colic.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

226 horses with signs of acute abdominal pain were compared to 20 clinically normal horses.

Procedure

The following were performed in horses with signs of colic: physical examination, CBC, abdominal fluid analysis, placement of a nasogastric tube to obtain gastric reflux, abdominal palpation per rectum, and ultrasonography of the abdomen. Results of ultrasonography were compared with the surgical, necropsy, or medical findings.

Results

Ultrasonography of horses with primary small-intestine lesions revealed images of small intestine with a wall thickness of 0.2 to 1.8 cm and a diameter of 3.6 to 13.5 cm without evidence of motility. Horses with peritonitis did have evidence of small-intestine motility on ultrasonography with a wall thickness of 0.5 to 1.3 cm and a diameter of 2 to 5.1 cm. Horses with primary large-colon lesions or small-colon impactions had small-intestine diameters on ultrasonographic evaluation of 3 to 7.1 cm. In these horses, small-intestine motility was detected.

If abnormal small intestine that lacked motility was detected by ultrasonographic evaluation, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for small-intestine strangulation obstructions were 100%. Detection of distended or edematous small intestine by abdominal palpation per rectum provided a sensitivity of 50%, specificity of 98%, positive predictive value of 89%, and negative predictive value of 89% for small-intestine strangulation obstructions.

Clinical Implications

The use of abdominal ultrasonography in horses with signs of colic is accurate for detecting small-intestine strangulation obstructions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1597–1601)
Case-control study of risk factors for the development of laminitis in the contralateral limb in Equidae with unilateral lameness
Authors: Peloso J. G. , Cohen N. D. , Walker M. A. , Watkins J. P. , Gayle J. M. , Moyer W.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To identify risk factors associated with development of laminitis of the supporting limb in Equidae with unilateral laminitis and to determine the radiographic appearance of this type of laminitis.

Design—

Retrospective analysis of medical records.

Animals—

20 Equidae with unilateral lameness that developed laminitis of the contralateral limb.

Procedure—

Case animals were compared with matched and unmatched populations of control animals that did not develop contralateral limb laminitis. Lateromedial radiographic projections of affected feet were evaluated for evidence of laminitis.

Results—

Body weight of case animals was not significantly different from that of control animals, but number of days that control animals were lame prior to recovery was significantly less than number of days that case animals were lame prior to the onset of laminitis. Lateromedial radiographic projections of the foot of the support limb were available for 16 of the 20 case animals. For all 16, thickness of the soft tissue dorsal to the distal phalanx was > 29% of the palmar cortical length of the distal phalanx, but only 1 had evidence of rotation of the distal phalanx. The proportion of case animals that were euthanatized was significantly greater than the proportion of control animals that were euthanatized.

Clinical Implications—

Duration of lameness, but not body weight, was a risk factor for development of laminitis in the contralateral limb in Equidae with unilateral lameness, and animals that developed this complication were more likely to be euthanatized than were animals that did not. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1746–1749)
Vestibulovaginal stenosis in dogs: 18 cases (1987–1995)
Authors: Kyles Andrew E. , Vaden Shelley , Hardie Elizabeth M. , Stone Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate vestibulovaginal stenosis in dogs.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

18 dogs with vestibulovaginal stenosis diagnosed between January 1987 and June 1995.

Procedure—

Signalment, results of physical examination, and diagnostic testing, treatment, and outcome were analyzed.

Results—

Mean age at initial examination was 4.6 years. Problems reported by the owners included signs of chronic urinary tract infection (6 dogs), urinary incontinence (4), failure to mate (4), signs of chronic vaginitis (2), and inappropriate urination (1). One dog did not have evidence of a clinical problem. Vestibulovaginal stenosis was detected by means of digital vaginal examination (18/18 dogs), vaginoscopy (17/17 dogs), and positive-contrast vaginography (9/10 dogs). Bacteria were isolated from the urine of 11 of 15 dogs. Twelve of 18 dogs were treated. Manual dilation (4 dogs) and T-shaped vaginoplasty (4) were less successful than vaginectomy (2) or resection of the stenotic area (3). Four of 6 dogs with signs of recurrent urinary tract infection underwent surgical correction, and none of these dogs subsequently had urinary tract infection. Three of 4 dogs with urinary incontinence responded to medical or surgical treatment for sphincter incompetence or for ectopic ureters.

Clinical Implications—

Surgical correction of vestibulovaginal stenosis is indicated in dogs that have mating difficulties or signs of recurrent urinary tract infection or chronic vaginitis, but stenosis is probably an incidental finding in most dogs with urinary incontinence. Vaginectomy and vaginal resection and anastomosis are the preferred surgical options. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1889–1893)
Prevalence of rabies in bats in Michigan, 1981–1993
Authors: Feller Michelle J. , Kaneene John B. , Stobierski Mary Grace
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To analyze the species distribution of animals submitted to the Michigan Department of Public Health (MDPH) for rabies testing during 1993. To determine whether any of the 9 species of bats residing in Michigan carries a disproportionate rabies burden, and to determine whether bats contributed the most cases of confirmed rabies during 1981 through 1992.

Design

Epidemiologic study.

Procedure

Records of animals submitted to the MDPH for rabies testing during 1993, and between 1981 and 1992, were reviewed. Information regarding type of animal submitted, specific species if the animal was a bat, county from which the animal was obtained, the identity of the submitting individual, species of the animal exposed, month of the submission, and results of rabies testing was extracted from these reords.

Results

During 1993, the MDPH received 2,045 submissions for rabies testing. Seventeen rabid animals were identified: 1 cat, 1 skunk, and 15 bats. Two hundred forty-six bats were submitted for testing. Eptesicus fuscus, the big brown bat, accounted for 97.2% (239) of bat submissions and was the only species of bat that had positive results of testing for rabies. Annual percentages of submitted bats found to be rabid ranged from 2.0 to 11.0%, with a 13-year mean of 6.2%.

Conclusions

100% of the confirmed cases of rabies in bats reported in Michigan in 1993 were associated with in E fuscus. During 1981 through 1992, most of Michigan's confirmed cases of rabies in animals developed in bats.
Prevalence and inheritance of and selection for hip dysplasia in seven breeds of dogs in Sweden and benefit:cost analysis of a screening and control program
Authors: Swenson Lennart , Audell Lars , Hedhammar Åke
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the prevalence and changes over time in the prevalence of hip dysplasia; to ascertain whether prevalence or severity of hip dysplasia was associated with sex of the dogs, age at which coxofemoral joint status was evaluated, or ancestral background; to determine the effects of selective breeding; and to conduct an economic evaluation of the hip dysplasia program operated by the Swedish Kennel Club.

Design

Analysis of radiographic evaluations of coxofemoral joint conformity.

Animals

83,229 dogs from 7 breeds registered by the Swedish Kennel Club.

Procedure

All radiographs were scrutinized by a single radiologist (LA), and coxofemoral joint conformation was classified as normal or dysplastic, with the degree of dysplasia classified as 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Results

Decreasing prevalence of hip dysplasia corresponding to selection of breeding stock and high heritabilities was found. Sex differences were documented in 3 of the breeds. This was interpreted as breed differences in the distribution of genes related to hip dysplasia. Economic analyses showed that costs of screening and registration of coxofemoral joints was less than the value of dogs estimated to have been saved from moderate, severe, or very severe hip dysplasia in 6 of the breeds.

Clinical Implications

Documented effects of age suggest that all dogs should be screened at the same age, rather than screening a few dogs at an older, more revealing age. In screening and control programs based on an open registry with access to family records, decreasing prevalence of hip dysplasia can be expected, and related to selection of breeding stock.
Effects of parenteral administration of vitamin E on health of periparturient dairy cows
Authors: Erskine Ronald J. , Bartlett Paul C. , Herdt Thomas , Gaston Patrick
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the effect of administration of vitamin E (D-α-tocopherol) on the incidence of retained placenta, metritis, and clinical mastitis during early lactation and on tocopherol concentrations.

Design—

Prospective randomized controlled study.

Animals—

420 Holstein cows

Procedure—

Vitamin E (3,000 mg, IM, once) was administered to 204 cows 8 to 14 days before expected parturition, and 216 control cows were not treated. The number of cows that had retained placenta, metritis, clinical mastitis, displaced abomasum, and clinically apparent acetonemia or hypocalcemia were recorded. Serum concentrations of tocopherol, the tocopherol:cholesterol ratio, and glutathione-peroxidase activity were determined from samples obtained before administration of vitamin E, 7 and 14 days after administration, and at 30 days after parturition from 36 treated and 36 control cows.

Results—

Administration of vitamin E significantly decreased the incidence of retained placenta and metritis (13/204 [6.4%] and 8/204 [3.9%], respectively, for the vitamin E-treated group; 27/216 [12.5%] and 19/216 [8.8%], respectively, for the untreated group) but did not affect the incidence of clinical mastitis. Serum vitamin E concentration was significantly higher in treated than in control cattle at 7 and 14 days after administration, but serum tocopherohcholesterol ratio was significantly higher only at 7 days after administration.

Clinical Implications—

Parenteral administration of a single injection of vitamin E before parturition may decrease the incidence of retained placenta and metritis in dairy cows but will increase serum concentrations for 7 to 14 days after administration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:466–469)
Generalized tremors in dogs: 24 cases (1984–1995)
Authors: Wagner Susan Orbovich , Podell Michael , Fenner William Roy
Published: December 2023

Objective

To characterize clinical features, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment outcome for dogs with generalized tremors.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

12 white purebred and 12 nonwhite mixed-breed and purebred dogs.

Procedure

Medical records of dogs examined for tremors between January 1984 and July 1995 were reviewed. History, signalment, abnormalities on physical and neurologic examinations, results of diagnostic testing, and diagnosis were recorded for each dog. Results were divided into the following 3 categories on the basis of the cause of the tremors: inflammatory, noninflammatory, and idiopathic. Cause was determined by results of CSF analyses or a history of toxin exposure.

Results

The only noninflammatory cause of generalized tremors identified in these dogs was mycotoxin ingestion. Steroid-responsive tremor syndrome had developed in 22 of 24 dogs, half of which had abnormal results of CSF analyses. Most dogs were young adults between 1 and 5 years old. More than half of the dogs were nonwhite mixed-breeds and all weighed < 15 kg (33 lb). Eighty percent of the dogs responded to immunosuppressive treatment within 3 days.

Clinical Implications

Inflammatory and noninflammatory causes for generalized tremors in dogs result in similar clinical signs, so a logical diagnostic and treatment approach is needed. Steroid-responsive tremor syndrome should be considered in small- to medium-breed, young adult dogs, regardless of coat color. A rapid and complete response to immunosuppressive treatment is expected. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:731–735)
Effect of booster vaccination with a multivalent clostridial bacterin-toxoid on sudden death syndrome mortality rate among feedlot cattle
Authors: De Groot Bradley D. , Dewey Catherine E. , Griffin D. Dee , Perino Louis J. , Moxley Rodney A. , Hahn G. LeRoy
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether booster vaccination with a multivalent clostridial bacterin-toxoid would affect the sudden death syndrome (SDS) mortality rate among feedlot cattle.

Design

Field trial.

Animals

83,115 cattle at a Nebraska feedlot.

Procedure

Cattle arriving at the feedlot underwent routine processing according to established protocol. All cattle received a sequentially numbered ear tag and a 2-ml dose of a multivalent bacterin-toxoid designed to protect cattle against Clostridium chauvoei, C septicum, C novyi, C sordellii, and C perfringens types C and D. Approximately 90 days prior to slaughter, growth promotants were implanted in all cattle, and cattle were allocated to a treatment or control group on the basis of the last digits of their ear tag numbers. Cattle in the treatment group received a second 2-ml dose of clostridial bacterin-toxoid; control cattle did not.

Results

Significant differences between groups in regard to crude, feeding pen, or SDS mortality rates were not detected. Sudden death syndrome mortality rate across both groups was 0.24%. If the SDS mortality rate in midwestern feedlot cattle was reduced ≥ 40% by booster vaccination with a multivalent clostridial bacterin-toxoid, this experiment included enough animals to have a 90% probability of detecting that difference.

Clinical Implications

Booster vaccination with a multivalent clostridial bacterin-toxoid does not affect SDS mortality rate among feedlot cattle. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997,211:749–753)
Cost-effectiveness analysis of treatment alternatives for beef bulls with preputial prolapse
Authors: Kasari Thomas R. , McGrann James M. , Hooper R. Neil
Published: December 2023

Objective

To develop an economic model for comparing cost-effectiveness of medical and surgical treatment versus replacement of beef bulls with preputial prolapse.

Design

Economic analysis.

Sample Population

Estimates determined from medical records of bulls treated for preputial prolapse at our hospital and from information about treatment of bulls published elsewhere.

Procedure

Annual depreciation cost for treatment (ADCT) and replacement (ADCR) were calculated. Total investment for an injured bull equaled the sum of salvage value, maintenance cost, and expected cost of the treatment option under consideration. Total investment for a replacement bull was purchase price. Net present value of cost was calculated for each year of bull use. Sensitivity analyses were constructed to determine the value that would warrant treatment of an injured bull.

Results

The decision to treat was indicated when ADCT was less than ADCR. In our example, it was more cost-effective for owners to cull an injured bull. The ADCR was $97 less than ADCT for medical treatment ($365 vs $462) and $280 less than ADCT for surgical treatment ($365 vs $645). Likewise, net present value of cost values indicated that it was more cost-effective for owners to cull an injured bull. Sensitivity analysis indicated treatment decisions were justified on the basis of replacement value or planned number of breeding seasons remaining for the bull.

Clinical Implications

The model described here can be used by practitioners to provide an objective basis to guide decision making of owners who seek advice on whether to treat or replace bulls with preputial prolapse. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:856–859)
Epiglottic augmentation for treatment of dorsal displacement of the soft palate in racehorses: 59 cases (1985–1994)
Authors: Tulleners Eric , Stick John A. , Leitch Midge , Trumble Troy N. , Wilkerson Jonathan P.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether epiglottic augmentation, in conjunction with more traditional surgical methods, would be useful in the treatment of dorsal displacement of the soft palate in racehorses.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

40 Thoroughbred and 19 Standardbred racehorses.

Procedure

Polytetrafluoroethylene paste was injected submucosally on the lingual epiglottic surface of each horse. In addition, sternothyrohyoideus myectomy or sternothyroideus tenectomy and staphylectomy were performed in most horses.

Results

Racing performance was improved after surgery in 29 of 40 (73%) Thoroughbreds and 10 of 19 (53%) Standardbreds. Twenty-nine (49%) horses won ≥ 1 race after surgery.

Clinical Implications

Results suggest that epiglottic augmentation, in conjunction with other surgical methods, may be an effective method of treating horses with poor racing performance attributable to dorsal displacement of the soft palate. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1022–1028)
Efficacy of parenteral administration of three antimicrobial agents in treatment of clinical mastitis in lactating cows: 487 cases (1989-1995)
Authors: Pyörälä Satu Hanna Kaarina , Pyörälä Erkki Olavi
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of parenteral administration of procaine penicillin G, spiramycin, or enrofloxacin in the treatment of clinical mastitis in lactating cows.

Design

Noncontrolled, clinical retrospective study.

Animals

487 cows with mastitis involving 543 quarters.

Procedure

Clinical signs, histories, and results of bacteriologic examination, somatic cell count, and N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase activity of milk samples taken before and 3 to 4 weeks after treatment were retrieved from hospital records. Cows treated parenterally with procaine penicillin G, spiramycin, or enrofloxacin for 3 to 5 days were included. Supportive treatment alone was given to 35 cows infected with Escherichia coli. Factors possibly affecting outcome were analyzed, using ANOVA, correlation analyses, and the Mann-Whitney test. χ2 Test was used to compare bacteriologic cure rates.

Results

Bacteriologic cure rates for mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and streptococci were 34, 76, and 65%, respectively. Cure rates in cows in their first lactation and infected with S aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci were significantly higher than those for older cows. In cows with mastitis caused by E coli, the cure rate was 74% for those treated with penicillin G and 71% for those not treated with antimicrobials. High N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase activity in milk samples obtained at initial examination indicated a poor outcome in S aureus and streptococcal mastitis. Cows infected in the early lactation period had more severe inflammatory responses and clinical signs if infected with coagulase-negative staphylococci and coliforms.

Clinical Implications

3 to 5 days of treatment with parenterally administered penicillin G for clinical mastitis caused by penicillin-susceptible S aureus strains is efficacious in young cows. Parenteral administration of spiramycin or enrofloxacin does not give satisfactory results in mastitis caused by penicillin-resistant S aureus. Use of antimicrobials in the treatment of mastitis caused by coliform bacteria is questionable. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:407-412)
Ocular lesions in horses with lymphosarcoma: 21 cases(1977-1997)
Authors: Rebhun William C. , Piero Fabio Del
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the most common ocular lesions in horses with lymphosarcoma.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

79 horses histologically confirmed to have lymphosarcoma.

Procedure

Ophthalmic examinations were performed by a single individual.

Results

21 of 79 horses had lesions involving the eye or ocular adnexa. Infiltration of the palpebral conjunctiva and eyelids was the most common lesion (n = 11). Other lesions included uveitis (n = 4), corneoscleral masses (2), third eyelid masses (2), and diffuse retrobulbar infiltrates (2).

Clinical Implications

In horses with lymphosarcoma, ocular lesions may precede or be more obvious than lymph node enlargement or signs of visceral involvement. Early recognition of ocular lesions suggestive of lymphosarcoma may allow a more rapid diagnosis of lymphosarcoma in horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:852-854)
Effects of an allicin-based product on cryptosporidiosis in neonatal calves
Authors: Olson Erik J. , Epperson William B. , Zeman David H. , Fayer Ronald , Hildreth Michael B.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate effectiveness of an allicin-based product in neonatal calves inoculated with Cryptosporidium parvum.

Design

Randomized controlled study.

Animals

43 neonatal calves.

Procedure

Calves were inoculated with 1.5 × l06 or 7.5 × 105 C parvum oocysts within 2 days after birth. Calves were given an allicin-based product once after inoculation or daily for 7 days after inoculation or were not treated. Calves that developed diarrhea were treated by administration of the product. Fecal consistency scores and weight gains were statistically evaluated.

Results

Mean daily weight gain and severity of diarrhea in calves 4 to 21 days old were unaffected by prophylactic use of the product. However, intensive prophylactic administration may have delayed onset of C parvum-induced diarrhea in calves inoculated with the lower dose of oocysts.

Clinical Implications

Administration of an allicin-based product did not alter duration of C parvum-induced diarrhea or enhance weight gain in neonatal calves. However, intensive prophylactic administration of an allicin-based product may delay onset of diarrhea in calves exposed to C parvum oocysts. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:987–990)
Effects of dietary vitamin E supplementation during late pregnancy on lamb mortality and ewe productivity
Authors: Kott Rodney W , Thomas Verl M. , Hatfield Patrick G. , Evans Tim , Davis Kathleen C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the effect of feeding vitamin E to ewes during late pregnancy on lamb mortality and ewe productivity.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

1,302 mature Rambouillet and Targhee ewes.

Procedure

During a 3-year period, approximately 430 ewes/y were randomly allocated to 2 groups; supplement-group ewes were fed additional vitamin E and control-group ewes were not. Beginning approximately 3 weeks before the first expected lambing date, ewes were fed 2.3 kg (5 lb) of alfalfa-grass hay/d and 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) of barley-based pellets/d with or without supplemental vitamin E. Pellets that were supplemented contained 1,450 mg of dl-α-tocopherol acetate/kg (658 mg/lb) of feed and provided an additional 330 IU of vitamin E/ewe/d. Selenium was incorporated into a trace mineral salt and fed free choice to all ewes throughout pregnancy.

Results

Supplemental vitamin E had no effect on ewe weight, body condition score, fertility, or prolificacy. In ewes that lambed in the early part of the lambing season, vitamin E supplementation significantly reduced lamb mortality, compared with no supplementation (12 vs 17%, respectively). Consequently, supplement-group ewes had significantly greater total body weight of lambs per ewe at the time of weaning, compared with control-group ewes. Differences were not observed between ewe groups in lamb mortality or total body weight of lambs per ewe at the time of weaning when ewes lambed during the late part of the lambing season.

Clinical Implications

If ewes are fed additional vitamin E 3 weeks before parturition, those that lamb in the early part of the lambing season may have low lamb mortality and, thus, higher total body weight of lambs per ewe at the time of weaning. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:997–1000)
Evaluation of microcytosis in 18 Shibas
Authors: Gookin Jody L. , Bunch Susan E. , Rush Laura J. , Grindem Carol B.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether microcytosis is a typical finding in Shibas.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

18 Shibas.

Procedure

Blood and serum samples were obtained for automated hematologic analyses (18 dogs) and for determination of ferritin concentration, using ELISA (14 dogs). Blood samples from 30 clinically normal dogs of various other breeds was analyzed to establish a reference range for ferritin concentration.

Results

Erythrocyte mean corpuscular volume in Shibas ranged from 55.6 to 69.1 fl (mean ± SD, 61.2 ± 4.3 fl; median, 60.6 fl; reference range, 63 to 73 fl). Microcytosis was identified in 12 of 18 dogs. Males and females were affected equally. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration was slightly low (range, 32.0 to 33.9%; reference range, 34 to 38%) in 6 dogs, 4 of which had microcytic RBC. Serum ferritin concentrations ranged from 61.2 to 277.0 ng/ml (mean ± SD, 110.6 ± 51.4 ng/ml; median, 106 ng/ml). Reference range for serum ferritin concentration was 50.7 to 440.0 ng/ml (mean ± SD, 121.2 ± 67.1 ng/ml; median, 111.5 ng/ml). Thrombocytopenia (range, 110,000 to 196,000 platelets; reference range, 200,000 to 450,000 platelets) was found in 7 dogs, 6 of which also had microcytic RBC.

Clinical Implications

Microcytosis can be a typical finding in Shibas. Common origin of Shibas and Akitas, a breed predisposed to microcytosis, suggests a hereditary basis for this finding. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212: 1258–1259)
Association between hyperadrenocorticism and development of calcium-containing uroliths in dogs with urolithiasis
Authors: Hess Rebecka S. , Kass Philip H. , Ward Cynthia R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine, among dogs with urolithiasis, whether dogs that had hyperadrenocorticism would be more likely to have calcium-containing uroliths than would dogs that did not have clinical evidence of hyperadrenocorticism.

Design

Retrospective case-control study.

Animals

20 dogs that had urolithiasis and hyperadrenocorticism and 42 breed-matched dogs that had urolithiasis but did not have clinical evidence of hyperadrenocortiosm.

Procedure

Signalment, urolith composition, results of bacterial culture of urine, and results of adrenal axis tests were recorded. A multivariate logistic regression model was created, including terms for age, sex, and hyperadrenocorticism. The outcome variable was presence or absence of calcium-containing uroliths.

Results

Among dogs with urolithiasis, those that had hyperadrenocorticism were 10 times as likely to have calcium-containing uroliths as were dogs that did not have clinical evidence of hyperadrenocorticism (odds ratio, 10.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.5 to 23.4) Neutered and sexually intact females were less likely to have calcium-containing uroliths than were neutered males (odds ratios, 0.041 [95% confidence interval, 0.0057 to 0.29] and 0.024 [95% confidence interval, 0.0012 to 0.5], respectively).

Clinical Implications

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of hyperadrenocorticism may decrease prevalence of calcium-containing uroliths in dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998:212:1889–1891)
Effects of tilmicosin on acute undifferentiated respiratory tract disease in newly arrived feedlot cattle
Authors: Vogel Gary J. , Laudert Scott B. , Zimmermann Alan , Guthrie Carl A. , Mechor Gerald D. , Moore Gregory M.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To evaluate effects of tilmicosin when used in fever-based and metaphylactic treatment programs to attenuate acute undifferentiated bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in cattle that recently arrived at feedlots, and to evaluate the effects of tilmicosin for the treatment of BRD.

Design

Randomized-block controlled study.

Animals

1,639 calves from livestock auctions.

Procedures

Cattle were assigned to 3 groups. Cattle in the nonmedicated (control) group were not given antibiotics during processing. Cattle in the fever-based treatment group were given tilmicosin (10 mg/kg [4.5 mg/lb] of body weight, SC) during processing when their rectal temperature was ≥ 40 C (104 F). All cattle in the metaphylactic treatment group were given tilmicosin (10 mg/kg, SC) during processing. Calves with BRD were treated with tilmicosin (10 mg/kg, SC).

Results

Morbidity rates in the metaphylactic (30.4%) and fever-based (44.7%) treatment groups were less than that for the nonmedicated group (54.8%). Mortality rate for the metaphylactic group during the first 28 days (1.1%) and during the entire study (1.7%) was less than that for the nonmedicated group (3.3 and 4.6%, respectively). Differences were not observed in therapeutic response rates among calves with BRD that were treated.

Clinical Implications

Fever-based and metaphylactic treatment programs that used tilmicosin decreased the prevalence of BRD and improved growth of calves. Metaphylactic treatment decreased the number of fatalities caused by BRD in high-risk calves. Fever-based treatment was less effective than metaphylactic treatment for decreasing the prevalence of BRD in newly arrived cattle. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998,212:1919–1924)
Comparison of effects of elective tenectomy or onychectomy in cats
Authors: Jankowski Arthur J. , Brown Dorothy C. , Duval Julie , Gregor Thomas P. , Strine Laurie E. , Ksiazek Leanne M. , Ott Amy Haines
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare short- and long-term complications after tenectomy of the deep digital flexor tendons or onychectomy and owner satisfaction with these surgical procedures.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Animals

20 cats undergoing tenectomy and 18 cats undergoing onychectomy.

Procedure

Cats undergoing tenectomy or onychectomy were monitored for a minimum of 5 months to enable comparison of type and frequency of complications. Owner satisfaction was also assessed.

Results

Cats undergoing tenectomy had significantly lower pain scores 24 hours after surgery, compared with those undergoing onychectomy. Type and frequency of other complications did not differ between procedures. Owners appeared to be less satisfied with the tenectomy procedure than with the onychectomy procedure, although scores for satisfaction with each procedure were not significantly different.

Clinical Implications

Owners should be aware of the high complication rate for both procedures and of the need for constant trimming of claws of cats that have undergone tenectomy. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:370-373)
Comparison of diagnostic methods for detection of active infection with Tritrichomonas foetus in beef heifers
Authors: Kittel Daniel R. , Campero Carlos , Van Hoosear Karen A. , Rhyan Jack C. , BonDurant Robert H.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare sensitivity of a generic trypticase-yeast extract-maltose (TYM) medium versus a commercial nutrient medium in the diagnosis of Tritrichomonas foetus infection in heifers and to assess sensitivity when incubation of samples inoculated into commercial medium pouches is delayed overnight.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

30 virgin beef heifers.

Procedures

20 heifers vaccinated with a trichomonad antigen and 10 unvaccinated control heifers were exposed at synchronized estrus by intravaginal instillation of 106 T foetus organisms. Cervicovaginal mucus samples were collected every other week for 10 weeks from controls and once (10 weeks after exposure) from vaccinated heifers. Samples were inoculated into both media and immediately incubated at 37 C (98.6 F). A duplicate inoculation from controls was made into commercial medium, and the pouch was shipped overnight to a diagnostic laboratory without prior incubation.

Results

For 40 of 50 samples from control heifers, there was agreement on diagnoses between media. There was agreement on a positive diagnosis for 3 of 20 samples from vaccinated heifers and on a negative diagnosis for 15 of these 20 samples. For samples shipped overnight before incubation, there were 10% fewer positive diagnoses, compared with samples incubated immediately in commercial medium and 10% more positive diagnoses, compared with samples immediately incubated in TYM.

Clinical Implications

Use of the commercial medium is a more sensitive indicator of current infection in heifers than use of generic TYM medium. In herds where infection prevalence is high, this method is likely to identify more infected females, an important consideration when control programs include culling of infected cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:519-522)
Effect of distance traveled and speed of racing on body weight and serum enzyme activity of sled dogs competing in a long-distance race
Authors: Hinchcliff Kenneth W , Shaw Lisa C. , Vukich Nic S. , Schmidt Karin E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the relationship of serum biochemical values and change in body weight with finishing status (retired from or finished the race), finishing order of a team, and distance traveled for dogs participating in a long-distance sled dog race.

Animals

262 of 848 dogs that participated in the 1995 Iditarod Trail sled dog race.

Design

Prospective study.

Procedure

Body weight was recorded for 261 dogs before the race and again when these dogs retired from or completed the race. Using a nonrandom convenience sample of participating dogs, blood samples were obtained from 151 dogs that retired from the race and 111 dogs that completed the race.

Results

Serum biochemical indices of skeletal muscle damage were significantly higher in dogs retiring during the first 500 miles of the race than in dogs retiring in the last 638 miles or finishing the race. Serum sodium concentration was less than the reference range in a significantly greater proportion of dogs that retired from the race than of dogs that completed the race. There was little relationship between finishing order and serum biochemical values. Dogs completing the race lost a mean of 8.9% of body weight, and amount of weight lost was not related to finishing order.

Clinical Implications

Results indicated that exertional rhabdomyolysis develops more often in dogs that retire during the initial 500 miles of a long-distance race, compared with dogs that complete the race. There is no detectable relationship between the speed with which the race is run (finishing order) and body weight loss or serum biochemical values. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:639-644)
Open-heart correction of tetralogy of Fallot in an acyanotic dog
Authors: Lew Linda J. , Fowler John D. , McKay Roxane , Egger Christine M. , Rosin Mark W.
Published: December 2023

Palliative treatment of tetralogy of Fallot in dogs has included β-adrenergic blockers to reduce right ventricular obstruction secondary to infundibular spasm, creation of systemic to pulmonary artery shunts to increase pulmonary blood flow, or both.

Primary definitive open-heart repair is the preferred treatment in humans, but successful correction of defects in dogs is rare.

Adaptation of cannulation, perfusion, and myocardial protection techniques used for human pediatric cardiac patients may improve the success of cardiac surgery in dogs.

Open-heart correction of tetralogy of Fallot in dogs is an alternative that may be a superior therapeutic option.
Effect of tuberculosis on milk production in dairy cows
Authors: Hernandez Jorge , Baca Dan
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate differences in milk production between cows with positive and negative caudal fold tuberculin test results in a Mycobacterium bovis-infected dairy herd.

Design—

Cross-sectional epidemiologic survey.

Animals—

369 Holstein cows with lactation duration between 200 and 360 days.

Procedure—

The caudal fold tuberculin test was performed. Information on milk production data, parity, calving season, days of lactation, previous milk production, and whether cows had clinical mastitis was obtained from farm records. Composite milk samples were collected and submitted for bacterial culture.

Results—

170 cows had positive tuberculin test results, and 199 had negative results. Cows with positive test results produced less milk (mean, 347 kg [763 lb]) than did cows with negative test results after adjusting for variables biologically related to milk production. Calving season (spring, summer) was significantly associated with reduced milk production. Cows with clinical mastitis produced less milk than did cows without clinical mastitis, but the difference was not statistically significant in the multiple regression analysis.

Clinical Implications—

In this herd, tuberculosis was associated with a 4% decrease in milk production. Milk production losses per cow attributable to calving season (spring, summer) were 3 times those attributable to tuberculosis. However, because of the high prevalence of tuberculosis in this herd, the impact of tuberculosis on total herd milk production was an additional cause for concern. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:851-854)
Laparoscopic diagnosis of subcapsular splenic hematoma in a horse
Authors: Mehl Margo L. , Ragle Claude A. , Mealey Robert H. , Whooten Thomas L.
Published: December 2023

Splenic trauma is a serious, often life-threatening condition in horses.

Laparoscopy permits direct observation of the spleen and determination of the location and extent of any lesions, making diagnosis of splenic trauma easier.

Laparoscopy may help clinicians choose between splenectomy and conservative treatment for horses with splenic trauma.
Results of bone scintigraphy in horses used for show jumping, hunting, or eventing: 141 cases (1988-1994)
Authors: Ehrlich Paula J. , Seeherman Howard J. , O'Callaghan Michael W. , Dohoo Ian R. , Brimacombe Michael
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine anatomic patterns and clinical importance of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in bones of horses used for show jumping, hunting, and eventing.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

141 horses evaluated because of lameness.

Procedure

Medical records were reviewed, and information on results of physical examination, radiography, and scintigraphy were obtained. Scintigrams were evaluated to identify areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake.

Results

834 areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake were identified. Scintigraphy of the vertebral column was performed in 78 horses, and 50 had areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake involving the spinous processes. Scintigraphy of the proximal phalanx of the forelimb was performed in 88 horses. Similarly, scintigraphy of the proximal phalanx of the hind limb was performed in 99 horses, and scintigrams of 374 proximal phalanges were available for review. One hundred fifty-five scintigrams had areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake. Scintigraphy of the tarsal joint was performed in 99 horses, and scintigrams of 198 joints were available for review. Eighty-five had areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake. Overall, 214 of 834 areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake were definitively associated with lameness.

Clinical Implications

Results of this study suggest that jumping creates unique stresses on the bones of horses. The distinctive patterns of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake identified in this study suggest that horses used for jumping may have a predilection to develop orthopedic disease at specific sites distinct from those in racehorses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1460-1467)
Interlocking nail treatment of diaphyseal long-bone fractures in dogs
Authors: Dueland R. Tass , Johnson Kenneth A. , Roe Simon C. , Engen Mark H. , Lesser Arnold S.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine results of using interlocking nails (IN) for fixation of diaphyseal long bone fractures in dogs.

Design

Multi-center prospective clinical trial.

Animals

134 dogs with diaphyseal fractures of the femur (n = 92), tibia (23), or humerus (19); 11 had previous unsuccessful treatments, and 103 had comminuted fractures of which 70 were classified as unstable.

Procedure

All fractures were stabilized with 6- or 8-mm-diameter IN with 3.5- or 4.5-mm screws, respectively. Cerclage wires and an autogenous bone graft were used at the surgeon's discretion. Participating surgeons provided information on age, sex, weight, and breed of the dog, details of the surgery, details of any intra- or postoperative complications, fracture healing time, and limb function.

Results

Eight dogs were lost to follow-up evaluation. In 105 of the remaining 126 dogs (83%), fractures healed without complications. For these 105 dogs, limb function was excellent (n = 90), good (12), fair (2), and poor (1). Complications developed for 21 dogs (17%); limb function after additional treatment was excellent (n = 10), good (2), fair (5), poor (1), or unreported (3). Interlocking nails broke in 9 dogs; breakage was attributed to fatigue failure because of use of too small an IN or because of insertion of the IN so that a screw hole was positioned at the fracture site.

Clinical Implications

The high success rate and low complication rate suggest that IN can be used to stabilize diaphyseal fractures in dogs. Good technique is necessary for optimal results. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:59–66).
Sedation with xylazine and lumbosacral epidural administration of lidocaine and xylazine for umbilical surgery in calves
Authors: Lewis Colleen A. , Constable Peter D. , Huhn John C. , Morin Dawn E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether anesthesia consisting of sedation induced by intramuscular administration of xylazine hydrochloride and lumbosacral analgesia induced by epidural administration of lidocaine and xylazine is useful for umbilical surgery in neonatal calves.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

6 neonatal male dairy calves.

Procedure

Calves were sedated with xylazine (0.1 mg/kg [0.045 mg/lb] of body weight, IM), and 5 minutes later a 2% solution of lidocaine (0.18 to 0.24 ml/kg [0.08 to 0.11 ml/lb]) and xylazine (0.05 mg/kg [0.022 mg/lb]) were administered into the lumbosacral epidural space. Calves were positioned in dorsal recumbency, and the umbilical structures were resected. Local infusion of lidocaine, cranial to the umbilicus, was required in 5 of 6 calves to provide adequate analgesia. Xylazine sedation was reversed with tolazoline (1 mg/kg [0.45 mg/lb], IV).

Results

Calves maintained adequate cardiac output and oxygen delivery throughout the procedure but were hypotensive. Reversal of xylazine-induced sedation with tolazoline caused transient sinus bradycardia and sinus arrest, accompanied by severe systemic arterial hypotension. All calves regained a suckle reflex within 10 minutes and were able to stand within 90 minutes.

Clinical Implications

Intramuscular administration of xylazine for sedation and epidural administration of lidocaine and xylazine for analgesia failed to provide satisfactory analgesia for umbilical resection without supplemental local infiltration of lidocaine. The anesthetic protocol is most useful when respiratory compromise or cost are concerns and the surgical procedure can be completed in < 1 hour. Caution should be exercised when tolazoline is administered intravenously to reverse xylazine-induced sedation in calves. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:89–95)
Prevalence of lesions and body condition scores among female swine at slaughter
Authors: Ritter Larry A. , Xue JinLiang , Dial Gary D. , Morrison Robert B. , Marsh William E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine prevalence of foot lesions, dermatitis, shoulder lesions, mammary gland abnormalities, and visceral lesions, and body condition scores among culled female swine at slaughter.

Design

Observational study.

Animals

Culled gilts and sows killed during a 1-week period at a Midwest slaughterhouse.

Procedure

Carcasses were examined, and lesions were recorded. Body condition was scored on the basis of standard criteria.

Results

58.9% (1,029/1,747) of the carcasses had foot lesions, 67.3% (1,178/1,751) had dermatitis, and 4.6% (80/1,751) had shoulder lesions. Body condition score was significantly associated with detection of dermatitis and shoulder lesions. Mean ± SE number of teats (n = 1,432 carcasses) was 13.86 ± 0.02. Mean numbers of normal-appearing teats in the left and right mammary chains were 6.57 ± 0.02 and 6.58 ± 0.02, respectively. Feet from 48% (688/1,433) of the carcasses were condemned. Visceral lesions were found in 48.8% (624/1,278) of the carcasses; of the carcasses with lesions, 412 (66%) had liver spots, and 268 (42.9%) had pneumonia.

Clinical Implications

Lesions that potentially could have adversely affected production were found in a large percentage of culled gilts and sows at slaughter. Knowledge of lesions commonly found at slaughter may help direct changes in herd health programs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:525–528)