bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin neoplasia in small animals 2. Common feline tumours
Authors: Murphy Sue
Published: October 2010

SKIN cancer is very common in cats, the skin being the second most reported site of malignancy after lymphoid tissue. Unlike dogs, skin tumours in the cat are more likely to be malignant than benign; most benign tumours seen in dogs, such as lipomas, pilomatricomas and papillomas, are rare in cats. Cutaneous malignant melanoma and apocrine gland adenocarcinoma are similarly rare. The most common feline tumours reported in several studies in the UK and USA are fibrosarcomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and basal cell and mast cell tumours, the diagnosis and management of which are discussed in this article. It should be noted that many proliferative or ulcerative skin conditions can mimic neoplasia in the cat, such as eosinophilic granuloma complex, flea allergic dermatitis, mycoses, poxvirus, dermatophytoses and autoimmune disease.
Working hours: are you a flexible friend?
Authors: Shuttleworth Sue
Published: October 2010

FLEXIBLE work patterns have become increasingly popular in the UK over the past few decades. New systems may seem less manageable at first glance, but by simplifying employees’ lives they ultimately make for a happier, more efficient workforce. Based on experiences in her own practice, Sue Shuttleworth describes how a considered team approach to flexible working can create a ‘work‐life balance’ for all to enjoy.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Pritchard Joy
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers who wish to contribute to the discussion of this month's dilemma ‐ ‘To trial, or not to trial’ ‐ should send their comments as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Some responses to ‘Gets your goat?’, which was published last month, appear on page 360. The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped that it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. This month's dilemma is discussed by Joy Pritchard.
Taxing questions on locums
Authors: Moore Andy
Published: October 2010

IN recent years, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has started challenging the profession on a number of issues. Job‐related accommodation and benefits have been targeted for some time but, more recently, the emphasis has shifted towards status issues and, in particular, how locums are treated for tax and national insurance purposes. This is an important issue for practices and locums but, says Andy Moore, many are not aware of what they should do and what the implications are of getting it wrong.
The internet: friend or foe?
Authors: Gerrard Bill
Published: October 2010

THE applications and benefits of information technology in veterinary practice have been explored in various editions of In Practice in recent times. This article adds a note of caution. Regular internet users will be well aware of how time‐consuming internet surfing can be. It seems that this and other forms of internet abuse are on the increase in businesses generally, and it is as well, argues Bill Gerrard, that veterinary practices keep one eye on some of the dangers that exist.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Mullan Siobhan
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers who wish to contribute to the discussion of this month's dilemma ‐ ‘Homeopathy: a moral stress?’ ‐ are invited to do so and should send their comments as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. A response to the dilemma, ‘To trial, or not to trial’, which was published last month, appears on page 424. This series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped that it will provide a framework that will help practices fi nd solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Equine laminitis 1. Management in the acute stage
Authors: Rendle David
Published: October 2010

LAMINITIS has been an affliction of domesticated equids since at least 350BC when Aristotle made the first known reference to ‘barley disease’. A survey of 113,000 horses in the UK in 1996 found the prevalence of laminitis to be 7·1 per cent. Although extensive research has partially unravelled the pathogenesis, evidence is conflicting and the significance of the different theories remains to be substantiated. Most of the research has involved the induction of laminitis by oral administration of excess carbohydrate or black walnut extract. How these models compare with the development of laminitis associated with pasture, gastrointestinal disease or mechanical overload of a limb is unknown. There is sufficient evidence to indicate that many of the proposed theories are important and a common pathogenesis linking the theories may eventually be determined. Insufficient trials have been performed to evaluate the efficacy of treatments for laminitis and most recommendations are based on anecdotal reports and clinical impressions. Literature can be cited both to support and oppose most of the treatments currently used for laminitis. This article reviews the options for the treatment of acute laminitis and provides some comment on the arguments for and against their use. The management of horses with chronic laminitis will be discussed in Part 2 in the next issue.
Cost‐effective biochemistry and haematology in sheep
Authors: Milne Elspeth , Scott Phil
Published: October 2010

WITH the exception of trace element analyses, routine haematology and clinical biochemistry are less frequently performed in farm animal practice than small animal practice. Although this is mainly due to financial constraints, there is also a relative lack of information on interpretation of results and appropriate reference intervals under differing management systems. Thus, biochemical and haematological investigations tend to be limited to selected tests for flock problems and specific disease presentations in more valuable individuals. This article discusses the use and limitations of laboratory testing as a diagnostic aid in sheep practice, excluding trace element analysis, which is the subject of a previous article (Suttle 2005). Throughout, the focus is on careful and cost‐effective test selection, and appropriate interpretation of results.
Shutting the stable door: ensuring the security and safety of in‐patients
Authors: Greet Tim
Published: October 2010

SAFEGUARDING the security and general wellbeing of stabled equine patients is essential to promoting a professional image as a modern veterinary practice, as well as complying with a statutory requirement to discharge the appropriate duty of care. The theft of a horse from a veterinary practice might seem an unlikely scenario, but many equine patients are valuable enough to tempt an opportunist. And this is certainly not the only risk that practices ought to be concerning themselves with, as Tim Greet discusses.
Locums learning the ropes
Authors: Shield Christine
Published: October 2010

VETERINARY practices have a great deal in common, but there are also huge differences in the day‐to‐day minutiae of how they run. A locum coming to work in a practice for the first time cannot be expected to have the same familiarity with its procedures as a permanent member of staff. Christine Shield suggests that a little forethought from an employer to help a new locum to navigate their way around the practice's systems will pay dividends.
Modern techniques for monitoring high‐producing dairy cows 1. Principles of herd‐level diagnoses
Authors: Cook Nigel , Oetzel Garrett , Nordlund Kenneth
Published: October 2010

THIS article, the first of two describing common practices used to monitor high‐producing dairy herds in North America, focuses on how to obtain herd‐level diagnoses using one‐time assessment of herd performance instead of day‐to‐day cow and herd‐level monitoring. This can provide important information when troubleshooting a particular problem or undertaking ongoing periodic surveillance of management practices on dairy farms. The majority of the techniques discussed have been developed and refined by clinicians working in the Food Animal Production Medicine group at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin‐Madison, using information collected from dairy herd problem investigations, on‐farm recording systems, blood, milk and urine samples, and information stored in the Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA) database (the US equivalent of the National Milk Records). The article also outlines how herd health records and information obtained from the DHIA may be used to highlight subclinical production disease problems. Part 2, to be published in the next issue, will consider how these tools can be used to achieve a specific herd‐level diagnosis for ketosis, subacute ruminal acidosis and hypocalcaemia.
Feline lymphoma 1. Principles of diagnosis and management
Authors: Hayes Alison
Published: October 2010

LYMPHOMA is the most common malignancy in cats and accounts for approximately one‐third of all feline tumours. Feline lymphoma in its various guises is a relatively frequent diagnosis in UK practice. This range of presentations poses a diagnostic challenge for practitioners, and persistence and resourcefulness are often needed to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Furthermore, response to treatment is not always easy to predict as many cats enjoy sustained remission and even cure with practice‐based therapy, while other cases respond poorly and thus have a limited life expectancy. Communicating the evidence to an owner while presenting a fair and realistic overview of what is to be expected can be difficult, but this is necessary to achieve informed consent and owner involvement in therapeutic decision‐making. This article discusses diagnostic and management principles for feline lymphoma, and reviews the current literature on therapy as it pertains to choices in case management in the practice setting. Part 2, to be published in the next issue, will focus on specific disease presentations.
Decision making in suspected congenital heart disease in dogs and cats
Authors: Stafford‐Johnson Mike
Published: October 2010

CONGENITAL heart defects, such as subaortic stenosis, pulmonic stenosis and patent ductus arteriosus, are relatively common in dogs, but rarely seen in cats. Such defects are usually suspected following the detection of a heart murmur on cardiac auscultation. Pulmonic stenosis and patent ductus arteriosus may be palliated or repaired, respectively, using interventional catheterisation techniques or surgery and it is, therefore, particularly important to diagnose these defects at an early stage before severe clinical signs and/or heart failure develop. This article discusses how to recognise different types of murmur, and describes the diagnosis and management of suspected congenital cardiac defects in dogs and cats.
Veterinary acupuncture: a Western, scientific approach
Authors: Lindley Samantha
Published: October 2010

THIS article provides an overview of veterinary acupuncture as practised using a ‘Western’ approach, which starts with an orthodox diagnosis and treats animals according to neurophysiological principles. It discusses safety aspects, current evidence and some clinical indications to help put acupuncture in context for practitioners considering referral.
First wash your hands! Control of nosocomial infections in practice
Authors: Polton Gerry , Elwood Clive
Published: October 2010

TWO years ago, in response to concerns about the nosocomial infection rate in its veterinary hospital, Davies Veterinary Specialists set up an infection control group to investigate infection risks and improve hygiene practices. As Gerry Polton and Clive Elwood explain, this has led to tangible improvements in the incidence of hospital‐acquired infections and has also had significant spin‐offs in terms of improved patient care and enhanced staff morale.
Limited liability partnerships: is there a real case for conversion?
Authors: Banks Roderick I'Anson
Published: October 2010

SOME other professions that have traditionally operated through partnerships have increasingly been converting to limited liability partnership (LLP) status, but few veterinary partnerships have followed suit. In this article, Roderick I'Anson Banks asks whether the reasons commonly given for taking this path are actually justified, and how relevant LLP status is to the veterinary profession.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Atkinson Martin
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers who wish to contribute to the discussion of this month's dilemma, entitled ‘Difficult dog’, are invited to do so and should send their comments as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. A response to the ‘Cetacean stranding’ dilemma, which was published last month, appears on page 560. This series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices fi nd solutions when facing similar dilemmas. This month's dilemma is presented and discussed by Martin Atkinson.
Contaminant, coloniser or invader? 2. Maximising diagnostic yield from clinical bacteriology
Authors: Normand Elizabeth
Published: October 2010

THIS article, the second of two aiming to help practitioners avoid the frustration of inconclusive bacteriology results, explains how to maximise diagnostic yield from clinical samples. It also reviews the principles of interpreting culture results in a clinical context on a case‐by‐case basis. Host‐bacteria interactions are relevant to both sampling and interpretation, and are discussed in Part 1, published on pages 22 to 26 of this issue.
Finding common ground through mediation
Authors: Hallows Bryan
Published: October 2010

MEDIATION offers a way of resolving disputes to the satisfaction of all parties involved without the need to go through a stressful court case. It has proved its worth in the veterinary sphere where various disputes have been brought to a successful conclusion by using a mediator to help work through problems. In this article, Bryan Hallows outlines the mediation process and its advantages.
Managing performance in the workplace 1. Why?
Authors: Hunt Lynne
Published: October 2010

WHAT determines whether people are able to perform to the best of their abilities in the work environment? A good performance management (ie, appraisal) system for starters ‐ and these days there are numerous types of system in operation. Here, Lynne Hunt argues that a well‐managed and effective system can benefit any business, irrespective of size. In the next issue she will describe in detail a versatile performance management system applicable to veterinary practice.
Does your CV stand out from the crowd?
Authors: Leyland Emma
Published: October 2010

YOU may think that writing a CV is a standard procedure, but what will make yours stand out above the rest and increase your chances of being selected for an interview in your first‐choice practice? In this article, Emma Leyland explains what employers are looking for in a CV, and warns of the pitfalls to avoid.
Hip dysplasia in dogs: treatment options and decision making
Authors: Corr Sandra
Published: October 2010

HIP dysplasia remains a common orthopaedic disease of dogs despite many years of selective breeding based on early detection of affected animals through the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (BVA/KC) Hip Dysplasia Scheme. While selective breeding can alter an animal's genes, factors such as diet, bodyweight and exercise have a major influence on the phenotypic expression of an individual's genotype. For example, labrador retrievers fed 25 per cent less than littermates fed ad libitum have been found to have a lower frequency and severity of hip dysplasia and subsequent osteoarthritis. Although controversial, it has been suggested that as few as 24 per cent of young dogs with severe radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will actually develop clinically significant hip disease if managed appropriately. This can make it difficult to determine whether an individual dog should be managed conservatively or surgically and, if the latter, when the most appropriate time is to perform that surgery. This article reviews the current literature on the treatment of dogs with hip dysplasia and discusses the indications for surgical management of the condition.
Vestibular disease in dogs and cats
Authors: Garosi Laurent
Published: October 2010

THE vestibular system is essential in maintaining balance and preventing an animal from falling over, by holding and adapting the position of the eyes, head and body with respect to gravity. It is therefore not surprising that disease of the vestibular system results in some of the most dramatic and distressing neurological signs, including head tilt, falling, rolling, leaning, circling, abnormal nystagmus and ataxia. Clinical signs of vestibular disease may be a result of lesions involving either the receptor organs in the inner ear or the vestibular portion of the eighth cranial nerve (ie, peripheral vestibular disease), or lesions involving the brainstem vestibular nuclei or vestibular centres in the cerebellum (ie, central vestibular disease). This article briefly describes the physiology of the vestibular system and discusses the clinical approach to an animal with a vestibular disorder.
PDP: from pilot to practice
Authors: Johnson Barry , Andrews Freda
Published: October 2010

HAVING been successfully piloted, the RCVS's professional development phase (PDP) is being formally introduced. From this summer, all new graduates registering with the RCVS, including those who graduated overseas, will be required to keep a record of their progress towards achieving the ‘Year 1 competencies’ ‐ that is, the clinical skills and procedures expected of someone who has worked in clinical practice for about a year. The PDP system is based on self‐assessment ‐ the new graduate will keep a simple log of his or her cases and clinical experiences on a password‐protected, web‐based database, to support them as they reflect on and plan their ongoing development. Here, Barry Johnson and Freda Andrews of the RCVS outline the context in which the PDP has been introduced, and give some pointers for employers and others who may be involved in mentoring and appraising new recruits to the profession.
How does your practice measure up?
Authors: Gripper Peter
Published: October 2010

KEY performance indicators are used by many businesses to record and monitor how they are doing. Clearly, parameters need to be chosen that are relevant and meaningful, but most importantly they should be ones that are key to delivering success for the business. As Peter Gripper discusses, the practice's ‘softer skills’ can be just as revealing as some of the more traditionally monitored financial data. The benefit of keeping tabs on exactly what is happening within the business is that managers are then able to take appropriate action for progress.
Job interviews: a two‐way street
Authors: Stanford Chris
Published: October 2010

IN a previous article, Chris Stanford offered some advice on CVs and interviews, mainly aimed at the more senior end of the market. This article discusses how best to handle job interviews and is intended for those seeking their first or second post after graduation. It also provides tips for others attending interviews who might feel a bit rusty, as well as some food for thought for those doing the interviewing.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Bazeley Kat
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers with comments to contribute on this month's dilemma, entitled ‘Charitable aspirations’, are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. A response to the ‘Injured greyhound’ dilemma, which was published last month, appears on page 177. The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. This month's dilemma is presented and discussed by Kat Bazeley.
Going modular: the new Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice
Authors: Viner Bradley
Published: October 2010

SINCE the first two RCVS certificates were set up in 1982 ‐ in veterinary radiology and veterinary anaesthesia ‐ many more have followed, covering a whole range of disciplines, from A (animal welfare science, ethics and law) to Z (zoological medicine). The certificate continues to evolve in line with the RCVS's aims of encouraging lifelong learning and, this year, candidates will begin enrolling for the new, modular Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP). In this article, Bradley Viner explains why the certificates have been restructured and how the modular system will operate
Your employment contract ‐ are there any devils in the detail?
Authors: Clayton Matthew
Published: October 2010

YOU'VE sent in your CV, had an interview and been offered the job; all that is left for you to do is to sign the contract. However, you may be unsure about what to look for in a contract and what some of the specific terms mean, particularly if this is your first post. Matthew Clayton gives some pointers and, for the benefit of employer and employee alike, details what should, and should not, be included in a contract of employment.
Thinking outside the box: smarter ways to stamp practice mail
Authors: Shield Christine
Published: October 2010

PRACTICES dispatch a wide range of items on a daily basis, from booster reminders to bulky packages of clinical samples, from drugs to urgent certificates. While some still simply use postage stamps, there are several other ways of paying for your post that have advantages over the traditional.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Anzuino Kathy
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. Readers with comments to contribute on this month's dilemma, entitled ‘Conflicting co‐owners’, are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the ‘Charitable aspirations’ dilemma, which was published last month, appears on page 236. The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. This month's dilemma was submitted by a reader and is discussed by Kathy Anzuino.
Recent Advance in tick control
Authors: Hendricks Anke , Perrins Natalie
Published: October 2010

UNTIL recently, tick control had generally been considered an added bonus of some flea control products. However, due to a combination of increased mobility of dogs and cats following the introduction of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), an increased awareness of tickborne diseases and a choice of licensed products specifically for tick control, this subject is gaining interest in its own right. This article reviews the current choice of tick control products licensed in the UK for use in dogs and cats, and highlights key points that should be considered when implementing a control programme.
Common dermatoses in reptiles
Authors: Goodman Gidona
Published: October 2010

THE condition of a reptile's skin reflects the animal's general health and is frequently an indicator of the condition of its captive environment. Skin disease in reptiles is often a result of inadequate or inappropriate husbandry that has led to secondary infection. Hence, it is important to obtain a good clinical history that includes husbandry details. This article describes various common dermatoses that affect reptiles and gives some guidance on possible treatments.
Accepting card payments via the practice website
Authors: Barrand Keith , Shaw David
Published: October 2010

MANY veterinary surgeries have websites but few, as yet, have a facility that allows clients to pay invoices via these websites. As Keith Barrand and David Shaw explain, practices have a number of options open to them if they wish to start taking payments online and there is a solution for almost every budget.
Practice or research? Weighing up the benefits
Authors: Walding Beth
Published: October 2010

IT WOULD seem that, at the moment, those who want to work in practice will find a post after graduation. However, in some cases this can take months and incur financial hardship — a situation that could get worse as the number of graduates increases. This is an issue that is close to Beth Walding's heart. It prompted her to find out how her contemporaries who have pursued alternative careers, mostly in research, are faring. As she discovered, there is plenty to recommend a more scientifically based path.
Don't slip up! Preventing trips and falls in the practice
Authors: Mitchell Alastair
Published: October 2010

STATISTICS indicate that slips and trips are the most common causes of injuries in UK workplaces, yet their significance is often overlooked. In the first of an occasional series of articles focusing on practical health and safety issues in veterinary practice, Alastair Mitchell suggests what can be done to stop such accidents happening in the first place.
Bluetongue virus serotype 8 in sheep and cattle: a clinical update
Authors: Dercksen Daan , Lewis Chris
Published: October 2010

BLUETONGUE was diagnosed in sheep in the Netherlands on August 14, 2006. Subsequent investigations indicated that the disease had been present in Belgium and Germany for several weeks beforehand. Bluetongue is a vector‐borne disease that usually clinically manifests only in sheep, but this northern European outbreak also clinically affected cattle. The vector in the outbreak was Culicoides dewulfi, a subspecies of Culicoides obsoletus that is also present in the UK. Other C obsoletus subspecies or Culicoides pulicaris may have been involved, all of which can be found in the UK. Professor Philip Mellor, head of the European Community Reference Laboratory for Bluetongue at the Institute for Animal Health at Pirbright, refers to Culicoides midges as ‘plankton of the air’ as they have the ability to travel great distances in air currents. A concern is that, if bluetongue should re‐emerge this summer or at a later date in mainland northern Europe, it may also appear in the UK; particularly high‐risk areas are southeast England and East Anglia, although no area should be considered risk free. This article describes the clinical signs of bluetongue, based on those that were seen in the Netherlands last year, with the aim of helping practitioners to recognise and report the disease promptly in the event of a UK outbreak.
Management of diarrhoea in foals up to weaning
Authors: Hepburn Richard
Published: October 2010

DIARRHOEA affects up to 80 per cent of British foals in the first six months of life and hence is both clinically and economically significant. Disease ranges from a transient alteration in faecal consistency to a life‐threatening enterocolitis with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). It is vital that the general practitioner is able to distinguish between cases that can be managed on the farm and those requiring hospitalisation and intensive care. This article discusses diagnostic and treatment approaches to the common causes of diarrhoea in foals.
Veterinary care of the racing pigeon
Authors: Cousquer Glen , Parsons David
Published: October 2010

KEEPERS of racing pigeons rear and train their own birds and may require veterinary advice when breeding and/or competition results prove unsatisfactory. The veterinary surgeon attending a racing pigeon loft must have a good understanding of the pigeon as an athlete and the factors that affect performance, as well as the epidemiology of diseases affecting pigeons. The balance between health and disease in birds is influenced by many variables and a sound veterinary approach, building on a targeted flock health plan and working closely with the pigeon fancier, is required to achieve good results. This article discusses the key areas contributing to the health of racing pigeons, including loft management, nutrition and hygiene, and highlights the importance of preventive medicine. It also describes the diagnosis and management of the more commonly seen diseases in pigeons and their associated epidemiology to help the practitioner investigate and combat the various threats to pigeon health.
Encouraging student diversity: a new gateway to veterinary medicine
Authors: Payne Rachel
Published: October 2010

MOST UK veterinary students have attended selective/private schools situated in affluent areas and are supported by parents on relatively high incomes. With the aim of increasing the diversity of its graduates, the Royal Veterinary College created the first veterinary widening participation (‘Gateway’) programme in England specifically to target applicants from non‐traditional, low income backgrounds. In this article, Rachel Payne explains why the programme — which has been running since September 2005 — came about, and how it works.
Information overload? Tools for tactical decision making
Authors: Girotti Ray
Published: October 2010

IT COULD be argued that there is too much information available to managers of veterinary practices these days. Most practices are computerised in one form or another, and a range of of benchmarking systems, journals, external business and trade information all create an environment that simply wasn't there just a few years ago. However, all this information has raised a new set of problems: how to interpret and use it. As Ray Girotti explains, in order to make information work for the practice, you must know what types of questions you want to ask, and have the discipline not to get side‐tracked along the way.
Non‐invasive blood pressure measurement in cats
Authors: Caney Sarah
Published: October 2010

EVALUATION of blood pressure is indicated in a large number of situations, and facilities for its measurement are now essential in all practices seeing cats. This article describes the different techniques and machines currently available for non‐invasive measurement of blood pressure in feline patients. It also provides some guidelines on interpretation of readings. As clinicians will be all too aware, blood pressure is a labile parameter — and not just in cats. Studies in human beings and other species have shown that it varies throughout the day, with stress and exercise, and can fluctuate enormously within seconds.
Practical intravenous fluid therapy in the diarrhoeic calf
Authors: Grove‐White Dai
Published: October 2010

NEONATAL diarrhoea remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the young calf. Irrespective of the pathogens involved in the disease process, treatment is aimed at correcting the resulting fluid and electrolyte deficits. This article discusses the rationale for fluid therapy and practical approaches to providing it intravenously. It is now generally accepted that antimicrobials have little role in the treatment of diarrhoea and that their use should be discouraged on public health grounds given concerns over the contribution of veterinary antibiotics to the development of transferable drug resistance.
PDP: a practice perspective
Authors: Hubbard Jill
Published: October 2010

ALL new veterinary graduates in the UK are now required to keep a formal record of their progress towards achieving the clinical skills and procedures expected of someone who has worked in practice for about a year (so‐called Year 1 competencies). This is the basis of the RCVS's professional development phase, or PDP, as discussed in a recent In Practice article (March 2007, volume 29, pp 166‐169). For the benefit of those practices dipping their toe in the water for the first time, Jill Hubbard reflects on her experiences of trialling the PDP scheme in her practice.
Financing the life plan
Authors: James Daniel
Published: October 2010

AS for other professionals, the decisions veterinarians make at different stages of their lives can make or break their financial security. Careful planning is required to maximise financial aspirations while providing personal and professional protection. In this, the first of five articles, Daniel James follows the life of a fictional veterinarian, discussing how and what she should plan for in order to achieve these goals. The story begins at the point of graduation; subsequent instalments will follow her fortunes through to retirement.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Atkinson Martin
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Maliciously injured kitten’, is presented and discussed by Martin Atkinson. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas. A response to last month's dilemma, ‘Organic farm with languishing lambs’ appears on page 423.
Getting the best results from radiography
Authors: Ewers Richard
Published: October 2010

RADIOGRAPHY is a valuable, non‐invasive diagnostic method. However, it is time consuming, requires expensive equipment and may pose risks to the patient and personnel. The diagnostic usefulness of a radiograph is directly related to the quality of the image. As a result, it is essential that a good technique is used consistently to obtain the best possible results from the equipment available. This article describes the stages involved in the process, from planning the investigation through producing the radiograph, to follow‐up examination of the image and subsequent decision making.
Treatment of canine hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Ramsey Ian , Neiger Reto
Published: October 2010

THE methods used to diagnose hyperadrenocorticism and distinguish the two forms of disease – pituitary‐dependent versus adrenal‐dependent – were described in the last issue of In Practice (September 2007, volume 29, pp 446‐454). This article focuses on the treatment of the condition. Before treating any dog with hyperadrenocorticism, it is worthwhile having a detailed discussion with the owner about the costs, benefits and potential complications of the available therapies.
Magnesium disorders in ruminants
Authors: Foster Aiden , Livesey Chris , Edwards Gareth
Published: October 2010

CATTLE and sheep are regularly submitted for postmortem examination with a history of sudden death. One of the differential diagnoses considered is hypomagnesaemia – a rare, but significant, cause of death in ruminants. The average annual disease rate for hypomagnesaemia in British dairy herds has been reported to be 0.5 per cent, with most herds having no problems but some farms having up to 10 per cent of the herd affected. Clinical signs may be acute or chronic, and there are various precipitating causes. This article reviews the factors that influence the metabolism of magnesium in ruminants and hence predispose them to hypomagnesaemia. It also describes some diagnostic tests, including blood, urine and ocular fluid sampling, that are essential to confirm suspected cases, as there are no gross postmortem findings specific for the condition. In addition, it briefly considers a number of methods that may be used to prevent clinical disease, including pasture treatments.
Clinical trials in practice: what do you need to know?
Authors: Anderson James , Jukes Helen
Published: October 2010

VETERINARY surgeons undertaking clinical research, either independently or as part of a wider research programme, need to be aware of the legal controls on such studies. As James Anderson and Helen Jukes explain, many studies can be carried out under the Veterinary Surgeons Act, provided that all clinical investigations and treatments are for the benefit of the animal and that authorised medicines are used. However, for studies that involve, for example, further sampling or use of unauthorised products, additional authorities will be required. Although securing appropriate authorisation from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and/or under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act may seem daunting, helpful advice is available from veterinary advisers at the VMD and from Home Office inspectors, and many duly authorised clinical trials are undertaken each year.
Fluid therapy in small animals
Authors: Goggs Robert , Humm Karen , Hughes Dez
Published: October 2010

THE administration of fluid therapy is commonly used in veterinary medicine to combat dehydration, hypovolaemia and hypoperfusion, to maintain intravascular volume and osmotic pressure, and to correct electrolyte imbalances. An understanding of the physiology of body fluids is important to ensure that the most appropriate fluid is chosen for a given situation. This article, the first in a series of three, describes the principles of fluid therapy and highlights the key aspects of patient assessment. Articles in the February and March issues of In Practice will discuss the individual properties of crystalloid and colloid solutions, respectively.
Differential diagnosis of epistaxis in the horse
Authors: Archer Debra
Published: October 2010

EPISTAXIS – bleeding from the nostrils – is a relatively common condition in the horse. Haemorrhage may originate from a number of locations, including the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, ethmoid labyrinth, guttural pouches or lungs. There are a number of potential causes of the condition, some of which are mild and self‐limiting, and others, such as guttural pouch mycosis, which are potentially life threatening and require surgical intervention. This article discusses how to distinguish emergency from non‐emergency cases, and describes a range of investigations that will help in establishing a diagnosis. It goes on to discuss treatment approaches for the most important causes of epistaxis.
Sampling programmes to establish and monitor the infectious disease status of cattle herds
Authors: Van Winden Steven , Pfeiffer Dirk
Published: October 2010

INFECTIOUS diseases can play an important role in the economic viability of a beef or dairy enterprise. In particular, disease introduced into a naive herd can have detrimental effects on production and mortality. As well as the costs associated with dealing with an outbreak, an infectious agent circulating in a herd can contribute to fertility problems, abortions, decreased milk production and loss of bodyweight. Sampling programmes can help to establish the presence of a disease and its prevalence in a herd. Armed with knowledge of the disease status of a herd, veterinary surgeons and farmers can jointly formulate an action plan to manage the disease(s) in question. This article discusses how to sample for and monitor a number of non‐statutory diseases that are of particular economic importance to the cattle industry – namely, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, bovine viral diarrhoea, leptospirosis and Johne's disease.
Veterinary consultations: the value of reflection
Authors: Manning Paul
Published: October 2010

VETS are often quite sensitive about having their consultations analysed, but the process can be a very worthwhile one, for the individual and the practice as a whole. Consultations are where the work, patient and client care, and income for the practice are first determined. Being proactive in developing and maintaining consultation skills, and gathering evidence to show that skills are improving, can reduce client complaints. The process need not be an especially formal one. Paul Manning draws on findings from his own research into veterinary consultations to stimulate practitioners to think about how effective they are being in the consulting room.
Financing the life plan
Authors: James Daniel
Published: October 2010

IN the final instalment in Daniel James's series, Nicola, our fictional veterinarian, is preparing for retirement. She has enjoyed a busy and successful practice career and is looking forward to having time to pursue some personal ambitions. Financially, she's in a strong position, but nonetheless there are some pretty important decisions to be made.
Investigation of dyspnoea in dogs
Authors: Stafford Johnson Mike , Martin Mike
Published: October 2010

DYSPNOEA is a relatively common presentation in dogs and has many possible aetiologies. The initial clinical assessment is essential to help identify the likely origin of the dyspnoea and determine the steps necessary to stabilise the clinical signs. Diagnostic techniques, such as radiography, bronchoscopy and thoracocentesis, can be easily performed in practice and will greatly aid investigation. This article describes the clinical signs of dyspnoea in dogs and outlines the approach to diagnosis in affected animals.
Management of young pigs for high health
Authors: Bown Peter
Published: October 2010

THE production of healthy weaners in good numbers is key to the economic viability of any pig breeding operation. High health in young pigs refers to piglets free of clinical disease at weaning and those that have not been disadvantaged by either disease or malnutrition during the suckling phase. This requires good management of sows during gestation and lactation, good management of farrowing rooms and good management of newborn piglets. This article discusses each of these elements, highlighting the importance of fulfilling the environmental needs of both the sow and the piglet. For the purposes of this article, a young pig is defined as one preweaning.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Dixon Greg
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Shooting for pleasure’, was submitted by a reader and is presented and discussed by Greg Dixon. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Who owns a stray dog?’, which was published in the October issue of In Practice, appears on page 585. The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Tying up loose ends: business exit strategies
Authors: Gripper Peter
Published: October 2010

WHEN joining any business, it is essential to know what you are getting involved with and what the options are when, or should, you have to leave. However, there may have been many changes in your own circumstances and lifestyle since you were employed, as well as changes in practice and in the profession as a whole. The perceived exit routes now might be very different from what you expected. In this article, Peter Gripper discusses the importance of having a defined exit strategy and highlights the areas that need consideration.
Putting the thumbscrews on management information
Authors: Girotti Ray
Published: October 2010

WE live and work in a quantitative world. When you have command of the facts and figures that drive your practice, you stand a better chance of getting the results you want. Here, Ray Girotti argues that it is important to understand how the presentation of management information can be manipulated, and how to interpret it accordingly.
Everyday ethics
Authors: Kerr Annie
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to the discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, entitled ‘Pregnant downer cow’, is presented and discussed by Annie Kerr. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Charity's stance on hereditary defects’, which was published in the November/December 2007 issue, appears on page 118.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Conditions of the feline fundus
Authors: Featherstone Heidi
Published: October 2010

ALTHOUGH the appearance of the fundus varies considerably between species, breeds and individual animals, the normal fundus of the cat displays less variation than that of the dog and, as such, is easier to become familiar with. This clinical guide to the feline fundus aims to provide an overview of the basic anatomy of the posterior segment, to facilitate recognition of the spectrum of normal variations and, therefore, abnormalities.