bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of veterinary clinics and pest control companies regarding tick-related problems in dogs residing in Texas cities
Authors: Dykstra Elizabeth A. , Slater Margaret R. , Teel Pete D. , Russell Leon H.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the extent and source of tick-related problems encountered by veterinary clinics and pest control company (PCC) clientele experiencing residential tick infestations in urban/suburban environments and to determine which tick-related diseases in dogs were diagnosed and treated at veterinary clinics.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Sample Population

Veterinary clinics and PCC in Dallas/Fort Worth and Austin/San Antonio, Tex.

Procedure

Surveys were made into professionally printed booklets and mailed to participants.

Results

Dallas/Fort Worth and Austin/San Antonio clinics indicated that tick-related problems comprised 21 and 15%, respectively, of their canine-based business. The most frequently observed species was the brown dog tick. Tick infestations were most common during May through August. Immature tick populations were seen by the greatest number of clinics in May and June, and engorged female ticks were encountered most often in June and July. Ticks were most commonly found around homes and adjacent yards or lots, Greenbelts were perceived by al1 4 study groups to be the principal place in the community where ticks were acquired by clients’ dogs, Canine ehrlichiosis was the most common tick-related disease diagnosed and treated at clinics, followed by anemia caused by tick infestation.

Clinical Implications

Identification of ticks is important, because different tick species transmit different disease agents and different ecologic factors may be associated with exposure and subsequent treatment. Knowledge of temporal activity patterns of ticks, where they are acquired and where populations become established, combined with improved cooperative efforts between veterinary clinics and PCC, would aid in more effective control and management of ticks, (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:360–365
Risk of shedding Salmonella organisms by market-age hogs in a barn with open-flush gutters
Authors: Davies Peter R. , Morgan Morrow W E. , Jones Frank T. , Deen John , Fedorka-Cray Paula J. , Gray Jeffrey T.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare prevalence of fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms and serum antibodies to Salmonella sp in market-age pigs housed in barns with partially slotted floors or solid floors with openflush gutters.

Design

Cross-sectional study of prevalence.

Sample Population

Finishing-age pigs deemed by the producer to be within 1 month of slaughter.

Procedure

Fecal and serum samples were obtained from a group of 121 pigs housed in a barn with solid floors (31 fecal samples, 30 serum samples) and from a group of about 400 pigs housed on partially slotted floors (57 fecal samples, 64 serum samples). Fecal samples were submitted for bacteriologic culture to detect Salmonella organisms, and serum samples were tested for antibodies by use of ELISA.

Results

Salmonella agona was isolated from 26 of 31 (84%) fecal samples obtained from pigs housed in the open-flush gutter barn, compared with 5 of 57 (9%) fecal samples from pigs in the barn with slotted floors. Median value for optical density was higher for serum samples from pigs housed in the openflush gutter barn.

Clinical Implications

Housing of finishing-age swine in barns with open-flush gutters may contribute to increased shedding of Salmonella sp. Analysis of our observations indicated that repeated exposure to infected feces is important in prolonging fecal shedding by swine. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:386–389
Medical diagnosis, diagnostic spaces, and fuzzy systems
Authors: Bellamy James E. C.
Published: December 2023

The complexity and uncertainty of diagnostic information makes the diagnostic process difficult to learn, teach, and practice. Fuzzy logic methods, used successfully with complex industrial control problems, may be appropriate to model the range of uncertainties found in medical diagnostic information. A fuzzy systems model for use with diagnostic and other medical decisions is described. Combining a state space view of an animal in which each dimension of the space represents a variable of the animal with a fuzzy sets representation of the variables and states of the animal leads to a fuzzy systems model, which can be used to successfully diagnose disease. Partitioning the multidimensional state space of the animal into healthy and specific disease regions provides a diagnostic space for evaluating the health of the animal. When an input vector representing the variables of a sick animal is entered into the system, the model can provide a diagnosis and, potentially, a prognosis for that animal. The model can be implemented on a desktop computer for convenient use, and it provides a helpful geometric interpretation of the concepts of "diagnosis" and "prognosis" for teaching diagnostic reasoning. The fuzzy systems approach has advantages that are unavailable in other methods. The capability of fuzzy systems to act as universal approximators allows them to accomodate complex, nonlinear, imprecise, and even conflicting relationships to provide accurate knowledge representation. With these advantages over standard rule-based methods of modeling the medical diagnostic process, fuzzy expert systems have broad potential for use in medicine and warrant further study to determine their application and possible limitations. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:390-396)
Dynamics of dog and cat populations in a community
Authors: Patronek Gary J. , Beck Alan M. , Glickman Lawrence T.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To describe dynamics of the pet dog and cat populations in a single community in terms of reproductive patterns and turnover.

Design—

Cross-sectional, random-digit dial telephone survey.

Sample Population—

Information gathered from 1,272 households in St Joseph County, Ind that owned a dog or cat between Dec 1, 1993 and Nov 30, 1994 was compared with data on 9,571 dogs and cats received by the Humane Society of St Joseph County during the same period.

Results—

Prevalence of pet ownership was lower than expected, compared with consumer panel surveys. Eight hundred forty-three of 1,335 (63.1%) dogs were neutered, compared with 816 of 1,023 (79.8%) cats. Cost was cited as a reason that 35 of 441 (7.9%) dogs and 34 of 132 (25.8%) cats were not neutered. Only 33 of 968 (3.4%) dog-owning households reported that their dog had had a litter during the past year, whereas 52 of 662 (7.9%) cat-owning households reported their cat had had a litter of kittens. Most cat litters were unplanned, whereas two thirds of dog litters were planned. Annual turnover in owned pets was 191 of 1,354 (14.1%) dogs and 194 of 1,056 (18.4%) cats. Pet owners underreported relinquishing pets to a shelter in the telephone survey.

Clinical Implications—

A combination of animal shelter- and human population-based data are needed to describe pet population dynamics in a community. Information about species-specific reproductive patterns is essential in designing population control programs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:637–642)
Characteristics and management of gunshot wounds in dogs and cats: 84 cases (1986-1995)
Authors: Fullington Robert J. , Otto Cynthia M.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine history, signalment, physical examination findings, treatment, complications, outcome, and prognostic indicators of dogs and cats treated for gunshot wounds at an urban veterinary referral hospital.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

82 dogs and 2 cats.

Results

Young (< 3 years old) sexually intact males were overrepresented. Of the 122 injuries, 52 were to limbs (23/52 were associated with fractures), 32 involved the thorax, 14 involved the abdomen, 14 involved the head, 6 involved the neck, and 4 involved the vertebral column. Seven animals were euthanatized because of financial concerns. Of the remaining 77, 11 died and 66 were discharged from the hospital.

Conservative treatment was adequate for animals with limb injuries not associated with a fracture. However, animals with evidence of peritoneal penetration required an exploratory laparotomy. Animals with thoracic injuries usually could be managed with conservative treatment or thoracocentesis. Only 1 animal underwent thoracotomy. Wound infection developed in 4 animals. Initial treatment of animals with gunshot wounds should include administration of antibiotics effective against gram-positive and -negative bacteria.

Clinical Implications

Most dogs with gunshot wounds that receive adequate treatment can be expected to survive. However, dogs with vertebral column or abdominal wounds may have a worse prognosis than dogs with thoracic or limb injuries. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:658–662
Nonlymphoid vertebral canal tumors in cats: 11 cases (1987-1995)
Authors: Levy Mark S. , Mauldin Glenna , Kapatkin Amy S. , Patnaik Amiya K.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine outcome of cats with nonlymphoid tumors of the vertebral canal that undergo surgery.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

11 cats.

Procedure

Information obtained from the medical records included signalment, tumor location, gross evaluation of completeness of surgical excision, histologic diagnosis, and survival time.

Results

Median age of cats was 12 years; all cats had negative FeLV and feline immunodeficiency virus test results. All cats underwent a hemilaminectomy or dorsal laminectomy. The tumor was located in the thoracic portion of the vertebral column in 6 cats. Six cats had intradural-extramedullary tumors. Tumors included meningioma (n = 5), malignant nerve sheath tumors (2), and meningeal sarcoma, chondrosarcoma, lipoma, and osteosarcoma (1 each). One cat was lost to follow-up, 1 cat with meningioma was alive 1,400 days after surgery, and 1 cat with a nerve sheath tumor was alive 2,190 days after surgery. Median survival time for the other 4 cats with meningioma was 180 days (range, 30 to 600 days).

Clinical Implications

Cats with nonlymphoid vertebral canal tumors that undergo surgery may have a good prognosis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:663–664
Analysis of prognostic factors and patterns of failure in dogs with periodontal tumors treated with megavoltage irradiation
Authors: Théon Alain P. , Rodriguez Carlos , Griffey Steven , Madewell Bruce R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine quality and duration of progression-free survival (PFS) time in dogs with periodontal tumors after definitive megavoltage irradiation and to analyze prognostic factors for PFS time and patterns of treatment failure.

Design

Prospective clinical trial.

Animals

47 dogs with acanthomatous, fibromatous, or ossifying epulis.

Procedure

Dogs were treated with 48 Gy over 4 weeks on an alternate-day schedule of 4 Gy/fraction. Multivariate analysis was done by use of Cox's proportional hazards regression model to determine prognostic factors for PFS time.

Results

The only independent prognostic factor for PFS time was tumor T stage. Pattern of local tumor recurrence (marginal vs infield regrowth) was independent of clinical stage, tumor location, and site. In 4% of the dogs, severe acute radiation reactions in the final week of treatment resulted in treatment discontinuation. In 6.4% of the dogs, chronic radiation reactions included bone necrosis.

Clinical Implications

Irradiation was a safe and effective treatment of small (T1 and T2 stage) periodontal tumors. The usefulness of the radiation protocol in this study is limited in dogs with large (T3) tumors, particularly those located in the caudal half of the oral cavity, because of poor results and high risk of acute radiation toxicoses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:785–788
Clinical and clinicopathologic abnormalities in Greyhounds with cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy: 18 cases (1992-1994)
Authors: Cowan Laine A. , Hertzke Donna M. , Fenwick Brad W. , Andreasen Claire B.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine clinical signs and clinicopathologic abnormalities in Greyhounds with cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy and to determine whether there were any differences between dogs with and without renal azotemia.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

18 Greyhounds.

Procedure

Results of CBC, serum biochemical analyses, urinalyses, coagulation tests, tests of RBC morphology, bacterial culture of blood samples, and serologic tests tor Rickettsia rickettsii, Ehrlichla canis, E platys, and Leptospira interrogans were reviewed. Glomerular filtration rates and urine protein:creatinine ratios were determined in most dogs. t-Tests and a test of equality of proportions were used to compare dogs that developed renal azotemia with dogs that did not.

Results

None of the dogs was bacteremic or had serologic evidence of infectious disease. Ten dogs had renal azotemia, 16 had anemia, 11 had hypoalbuminemia, and 18 developed thrombocytopenia. Compared with dogs without renal azotemia, dogs with renal azotemia had significantly lower mean platelet count, hematocrit, and serum albumin concentration and significantly higher mean neutrophil count and creatine kinase activity. All 10 dogs with renal azotemia died or were euthanatized; 7 of 8 dogs without azotemia survived.

Clinical Implications

Greyhounds with cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy that developed renal azotemia had evidence of more severe systemic disease than did dogs that did not have azotemia and, despite supportive treatment, had a poorer prognosis.
Three methods of oxytocin-induced parturition and their effects on foals
Authors: Macpherson Margo L. , Chaffin M. Keith , Carroll Gwendolyn L. , Jorgensen Jennifer , Arrott Caroline , Varner Dickson D. , Blanchard Terry L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare effects of 3 oxytocin-based induction techniques on fetal and neonatal foals.

Design

Prospective randomized controlled trial.

Animals

16 pregnant mares.

Procedure

Parturition was induced in mares by use of 3 treatments: group 1, 75 U of oxytocin, IM; group 2, 15 U of oxytocin, IM, q 15 minutes, for a maximum of 75 U; group 3, 75 U of oxytocin in 1 L of 0.9% NaCI solution, IV (1 U/min), for a maximum of 75 U. Blood gas values and indices of vitality were measured in foals, and variables describing parturition were measured in mares.

Results

Group-3 mares had a shorter interval from administration of oxytocin to rupture of the chorioallantois (OTCA) than group-2 mares. More foals were abnormal when the interval from oxytocin administration to delivery of the foal (OTDE) was ≥ 60 minutes, Arterial blood gas values, measurements of vitality, and plasma cortisol concentrations did not differ among foals in various treatment groups. Increased interval for OTCA and OTDE resulted in higher neonatal Paco2, and a longer interval for OTCA resulted in lower arterial pH. Time required for birth was shorter in mares with a dilated cervix. More abnormal foals than normal foals were delivered after premature placental separation or dystocia. Abnormal foals took longer to stand and suckle than normal foals. Interval from delivery to suckling was positively correlated with OTCA, OTDE, and Paco2.

Clinical Implications

Method of oxytocin-induced parturition did not impact neonatal outcome. Interval from induction until parturition, degree of cervical dilatation, and intrapartum complications influenced induction success. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997; 210:799–803
Synovial fluid cavitation during distraction radiography of the coxofemoral joint in dogs
Authors: LaFond Elizabeth , Smith Gail K. , Gregor Thomas P , McKelvie Pamela J. , Shofer Frances S.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine risk factors for, and prevalence and short- and long-term effects of, synovial fluid cavitation during distraction radiography.

Design—

Multicenter prevalence survey.

Animals—

6,649 purebred dogs comprising 129 breeds.

Procedure—

Radiographs from the PennHIP (University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) Laboratory were subjectively evaluated for evidence of cavitation. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine whether sex, breed, age, weight, distraction index (DI), or examining veterinarian was associated with cavitation. Short-term effects of cavitation were assessed by comparing DI for the hip with cavitation with DI for the contralateral hip in dogs with unilateral cavitation. Long-term effects of cavitation were assessed by comparing DI before and after cavitation was detected.

Results—

Cavitation was detected in 279 (4.2%) of the radiographs analyzed. Male dogs, Golden Retrievers, and heavier dogs were at a decreased risk for cavitation. Irish Wolfhounds, Irish Setters, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and Weimaraners had an increased risk for cavitation. Age and DI were not risk factors for cavitation. Mean DI was 0.08 greater in hips with cavitation than in paired hips without cavitation. Significant differences were not detected between DI before and after cavitation, but only 7 dogs were included in this analysis.

Clinical Implications—

Cavitation is rare during distraction radiography and can increase measured DI. Radiographs should be routinely examined to ensure accurate reporting of DI. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210: 1294–1297
Nimodipine for treatment of idiopathic epilepsy in dogs
Authors: O'Brien Dennis P , Simpson Stephen T. , Longshore Randall C. , Kroll Robert A. , Goetze Leopold
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate efficacy and safety of the calcium channel antagonist nimodipine in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy.

Design—

Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—

10 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Dogs were included if seizures were inadequately controlled despite treatment with barbiturates and serum phenobarbital concentrations were > 25 μg/ml, if dogs had intolerable adverse effects when treated with barbiturates, or if dogs had mild, inadequately treated seizures.

Procedures—

Dogs were treated with nimodipine (2.5 mg/kg [1.1 mg/lb] of body weight. PO, q 12 h), and other medications were slowly withdrawn. Dogs were monitored for seizure frequency and severity as well as any adverse effects to the medication.

Results—

Few adverse effects were reported. Seizure control, however, was generally inadequate. All but 2 dogs were withdrawn from the study because of poor seizure control. Plasma nimodipine concentrations were low, with a mean peak concentration of 105.3 ng/ml.

Clinical Implications—

Nimodipine was not successful in controlling seizures in dogs used in this study. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1298–1301)
Patterns of feline coronavirus infection and fecal shedding from cats in multiple-cat environments
Authors: Foley Janet E. , Poland Amy , Carlson Jeff , Pedersen Niels C.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine, by use of a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test, patterns of fecal shedding of feline coronavirus among cats.

Design—

Prospective observational study.

Animals—

275 purebred cats from 6 private catteries and 40 specific-pathogen-free (SPF) laboratory-reared cats.

Procedure—

40 SPF cats were experimentally inoculated with crude fecal extract containing feline enteric coronavirus (FECV). Fecal and plasma samples were collected every 4 days and evaluated by use of RT-PCR and indirect immunofluorescence assays, respectively, to correlate RT-PCR results with fecal infectivity and to determine patterns of FECV shedding and anti-FECV IgG production in acutely infected cats. The 275 cats in private catteries were monitored for 1 year. Fecal and blood samples were collected every 1 to 3 months and assayed by use of RT-PCR and serologic tests to determine patterns of coronavirus shedding and cofactors for high frequency shedding.

Results—

Results of the RT-PCR test in SPF cats were directly correlated with fecal extract infectivity. Overall, 370 of 894 (41%) fecal samples collected from cattery and shelter cats contained infectious levels of coronavirus. Of 121 cats from which multiple samples were collected, 11 never shed virus and 35, 65, and 10, respectively, shed virus with low, moderate, and high frequency. High frequency shedding was associated with age and cattery of origin, but not with sex or concurrent disease. Stress associated with parturition and lactation did not induce shedding in queens. Kittens did not shed coronavirus before they were 10 weeks old, even when nursed by shedding mothers.

Clinical Implications—

A large proportion of cats in multiple-cat environments shed coronavirus at any given time, but most undergo cycles of infection and shedding, recovery, and reinfection. Infection is acquired from chronically shedding cats and from infectious cats undergoing transient primary infection. Chronically shedding cats cannot be identified on the basis of antibody titer or signalment, but must be identified on the basis of the results of serial fecal RT-PCR tests. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1307–1312)
Onset of epiphyseal mineralization and growth plate closure in radiographically normal and dysplastic Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Todhunter R. J. , Zachos T. A. , Gilbert R. O. , Erb H. N. , Williams A.J. , Burton-Wurster N. , Lust G.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine whether onset of mineralization of the femoral and proximal tibial epiphyses and age at closure of the femoral and acetabular triradiate growth plates was different for Labrador Retrievers that were radiographically normal or that had canine hip dysplasia (CHD).

Design—

Cohort study.

Animals—

36 Labrador Retriever puppies.

Procedure—

Puppies were radiographed every other day from the time they were 8 to 10 days old until ossification of the femoral heads was apparent. Radiographs were then obtained weekly until puppies were 1 month old and then monthly until puppies were 8 to 12 months old. Age at which mineralization was first observed in the proximal and distal femoral and proximal tibial epiphyses and at which the femoral capital, triradiate acetabular, and distal femoral growth plates were no longer radiographically visible were recorded. Fifteen dogs were euthanatized and necropsied to determine whether dogs had CHD.

Results—

There were 26 radiographically normal left and right hip joints and 10 dysplastic left and right hip joints. Onset of mineralization of the proximal femoral epiphyses and of the right proximal tibial epiphysis was significantly later in dysplastic than in radiographically normal puppies. The left femoral capital growth plates closed significantly later in dysplastic than in radiographically normal joints, but other differences in growth plate closure were not detected.

Clinical Implications—

Endochondral ossification may be abnormal in dogs with CHD. The disease appears to affect multiple joints, even though it is most evident clinically in the hip joint. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210: 1458–1462)
Variations in composition of cartilage from the shoulder joints of young adult dogs at risk for developing canine hip dysplasia
Authors: Farquhar T. , Bertram J. , Todhunter R. J. , Burton-Wurster N. , Lust G.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine whether the composition of cartilage from the shoulder joints of dogs varied with the risk of developing canine hip dysplasia (CHD).

Design—

Observational study.

Animals—

12 skeletally mature (approx 1 year old) Labrador Retrievers.

Procedure—

Dogs were classified as having a low, moderate, or high risk of developing CHD on the basis of distraction indices. Cartilage was harvested from the craniolateral and weight-bearing regions of the humeral heads, and wet weight per unit area and dry, glycosaminoglycan, and fibronectin contents were determined.

Results—

Glycosaminoglycan and dry contents did not vary among risk groups. For cartilage from the craniolateral region of the humeral head, wet weight per unit area and fibronectin content increased as risk of developing CHD increased. Wet weight and fibronectin content of cartilage from the weight-bearing region of the humeral head did not vary among risk groups.

Clinical Implications—

Dogs that have a high risk of developing CHD are also more likely to develop osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint. The observed increases in wet weight per unit area and fibronectin content in cartilage from the craniolateral region of the humeral head in dogs at a high risk of developing CHD may be early signs of incipient osteoarthritis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210: 1483-1485)
Association between management practices, dairy herd characteristics, and somatic cell count of bulk tank milk
Authors: Wilson David J. , Das Helena H. , Gonzalez Ruben N. , Sears Philip M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine whether particular dairy management practices and herd characteristics were associated with somatic cell count (See) of bulk tank milk.

Design—

Analysis of records.

Sample Population—

Milk samples collected from 59,435 cows housed in 843 dairy herds between March 1992 and June 1994.

Procedure—

Results of bacterial culture of milk samples and data on farm housing, sanitation, milking system, and management were collected. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine sources of variation in bulk tank milk see among herds.

Results—

Prevalence of Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus mastitis was associated with bulk tank milk SCC. In herds free of S agalactiae mastitis, prevalence of S aureus and Corynebacterium bovis mastitis were important. For herds without S agalactiae mastitis, use of sawdust bedding was associated with a decrease in SCC and a dirty loose housing area was associated with an increase. Increased milk production, repeated mastitis control visits, and use of particular predip compounds were significantly associated with reduced SCC in all herds, regardless of whether any cows in the herd had S agalactiae mastitis, In herds with S agalactiae mastitis, use of iodine (certain concentrations), chlorhexidine, peroxide, or sodium chlorite-lactic acid as a predip was associated with a decrease in SCC. Only use of sodium chlorite-lactic acid predip was significantly associated with a decrease in SCC in herds without S agalactiae mastitis.

Clinical Implications—

Important factors associated with bulk tank milk SCC were prevalence of S agalactiae and S aureus mastitis. careful application of particular predip compounds. avoiding a dirty loose housing area, and use of a service to regularly monitor prevalence of mastitis in the herd: (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1466-1469)
Intravenous administration of human immune globulin in dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia
Authors: Scott-Moncrieff J. Catharine R. , Reagan William J. , Snyder Paul W. , Glickman Lawrence T.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous administration of human immune globulin in the treatment of dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA).

Design—

Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—

10 dogs with confirmed primary IMHA that had failed to respond to conventional immunosuppressive treatment (administration of prednisone and cyclophosphamide or azathioprine).

Procedure—

Diagnosis of IMHA was confirmed by detecting spherocytosis or autoagglutination in blood smears and by excluding secondary causes of IMHA. Dogs were treated with human immune globulin (1 g/kg (0.45 glib] of body weight. IV) during a 6- to 12-hour period. Prednisone treatment was continued in all dogs, and cyclophosphamide treatment was continued in 4.

Results—

Median duration of prior immunosuppressive treatment was 12.5 days. Short-term response could not be evaluated in 2 dogs, because they were given blood transfusions within 7 days after immune globulin treatment. However, there was a significant increase in mean Hct and hemoglobin concentration in 8 other dogs from day 0 to 28 after treatment. Five dogs had clinically meaningful responses to treatment. Three dogs were alive 12 months after treatment. There were not any adverse effects that could be definitively attributed to immune globulin treatment; however, thrombocytopenia was observed in 6 dogs after treatment, and evidence of thromboembolism was detected at necropsy in 5 of the 7 dogs that died.

Clinical Implications—

Human immune globulin may be useful for Short-term stabilization of some dogs with IMHA; however, it did not appear to improve long-term survival. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1623–1627)
Long-term results of surgical correction of persistent right aortic arch in dogs: 25 cases (1980-1995)
Authors: Muldoon Michele M. , Birchard Stephen J. , Ellison Gary W.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate long-term outcome of dogs with persistent right aortic arch that undergo surgical correction.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

25 dogs.

Procedure—

Surgical correction consisted of ligation and division of the ligamentum arteriosum through a left fourth intercostal thoracotomy. Long-term (> 6 months after surgery) follow-up Information was obtained by means of a telephone survey of owners (22 dogs) and by means of reevaluati0ns by a veterinarian (3).

Results—

Median age at the time of surgical treatment was 12 weeks. Short-term (2 to 4 weeks after surgery) follow-up information was available for 14 dogs. Nine no longer regurgitated after eating, and 5 regurgitated infrequently. Follow-up esophagography (median time after surgery, 4 months) waS performed in 13 dogs and revealed persistence of megaesophagus in all 13. At the time of long-term follow-up, 23 (92%) dogs no longer regurgitated after eating, and the remaining 2(8%) had regurgitated less than once per week.

Clinical Implications—

Contrary to previous reports, surgical correction of persistent right aortic arch resulted in complete alleviation of clinical signs in most dogs and an improvement in signs in the remaining dogs. Persistence of megaesophagus and regurgitation in the early postoperative period did not indicate a poor long-term outcome. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1761–1763)
Evidence of vertical transmission of Neospora sp infection in dairy cattle
Authors: Anderson Mark L. , Reynolds James P , Rowe Joan D. , Sverlow Karen W , Packham Andrea E. , Barr Bradd C. , Conrad Patricia A.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine whether heifers with naturally acquired congenital exposure to Neospora sp would transmit the infection to their offspring during gestation.

Design—

Prospective cohort study.

Animals—

Neonatal heifers on a dairy with a history of Neospora sp infections were selected for the study on the basis of their serum titers to Neospora sp, as determined by the use of indirect fluorescent antibody testing. Seropositive heifers (n = 25) had titers ≥ 1:5,120 and seronegative heifers (25) had titers ≤ 1:80. All heifers were raised and bred on the dairy, and samples were obtained from heifers and their calves at the time of calving.

Procedure—

Blood samples were tested for Neospora sp antibodies. Histologic evaluations, Neospora sp immunohistochemical examinations. and protozoal culturing were performed on samples obtained from selected offspring (second-generation calves).

Results—

Seropositive heifers gave birth to calves with titers ≥ 1:1,280 to Neospora sp. All offspring from seropositive heifers that were necropsied had evidence of Neospora sp infection. All seronegative heifers and their offspring had titers < 1:80 to Neospora sp.

Clinical Implications—

Congenitally acquired Neospora sp infection can persist in clinically normal heifers and be transmitted transplacentally to their offspring. Vertical transmission can be a way by which neosporosis is maintained in herds. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1169–1172)
Median effective dose of propofol required for induction of anesthesia in goats
Authors: Pablo Luisito S. , Bailey James E. , Ko Jeff C. H.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the median effective dose (ED50) of propofol required for induction of anesthesia in goats and the frequency of myoclonic activity and apnea associated with propofol administration.

Design—

Clinical trial.

Animals—

28 healthy mature goats.

Procedure—

ED50 was determined by use of the up-and-down method. The first goat was given 4 mg of propofol/kg (1.8 mg/lb) of body weight, IV. Dose was increased by 25% for the next goat if endotracheal intubation was not possible and decreased by 20% if it was. For each subsequent goat, dose was determined on the basis of response of the previous goat. The ED50 was calculated by use of probit analysis. Induction time, frequency and duration of apnea, frequency of myoclonus, and other adverse effects were recorded.

Results—

ED50 was determined to be 5.1 mg/kg (2.3 mg/lb). Mean (± SD) induction time was 23.2 ± 4.7 seconds. Apnea was observed in 27 of 28 goats; mean (± SD) duration of apnea was 72.9 ± 38.3 seconds. Dose did not correlate with duration of apnea. Myoclonic activity was observed in 16 of 28 goats; frequency of myoclonus was not associated with dose. Cyanosis, regurgitation, and signs of pain during injection were not observed.

Clinical Implications—

Administration of propofol at 5.1 mg/kg (2.3 mg/lb), IV, should permit endotracheal intubation in half of unpremedicated, healthy, mature goats. Myoclonus and apnea were associated with propofol administration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:86–88)
Knowledge and attitudes of residents in two areas of Massachusetts about rabies and an oral vaccination program in wildlife
Authors: McGuill Michael W , Kreindel Silvia M. , DeMaria Alfred , Rupprecht Charles
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To compare public knowledge and attitudes about rabies and an oral rabies vaccination program in raccoons.

Design—

Random-digit dial telephone survey.

Sample Population—

Residents of 2 areas of Massachusetts.

Procedure—

Residents of 2 areas of Massachusetts were called to participate in a telephone survey. One area (Cape Ann) included 8 towns, most of which have had rabies in raccoons since 1993. The second area (Cape Cod) included 7 towns, 5 of which have not had rabies in raccoons. Calls were made to 642 persons, and of these, 265 agreed to participate in the survey. Of the nonrespondents who were subsequently contacted again, half agreed to participate. Data were analyzed using a statistical program. Fisher’s exact and χ2 tests were used to determine associations.

Results—

Residents from the area virtually free of rabies in raccoons were significantly less likely to consider rabies as a potential health threat for children in their household. The perception of rabies as a threat was higher for residents in the endemic area. Residents in both areas considered rabies control to be a high priority and supported use of state funding for an oral vaccination program.

Clinical Implications—

People recognize dangers associated with rabies and believe that oral vaccination programs will decrease the risk of exposure. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:305–309)
Comparison of results of adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation and low-dose dexamethasone suppression tests with necropsy findings in dogs: 81 cases (1985–1995)
Authors: Van Liew Camilla H. , Greco Deborah S. , Salman Mowafak D.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of results of low-dose dexamethasone suppression (LDDS) and ACTH stimulation tests with necropsy findings in 81 dogs.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

81 dogs that had undergone screening tests for hyperadrenocorticism and that had a complete necropsy report.

Procedure—

Medical records were evaluated for results of CBC, serum biochemical analysis, urinalysis, endocrine testing, signalment, treatment, and necropsy findings. Each dog was definitively classified as having true-positive, true-negative, false-positive, or false-negative results. Statistical analyses included determination of prevalence, apparent prevalence, accuracy, number of dogs misclassifled, sensitivity, specificity, and posltive-and negative-predictive values.

Results—

Of the 81 dogs that fit the criteria for selection, 40 (49%) were confirmed as having hyperadreno-corticism (30 had pituitary-dependent disease and 10 had adrenal gland tumors). Forty-one dogs had illnesses attributable to a cause other than disease of the adrenal glands. Sensitivity of ACTH stimulation and LDDS tests were 95 and 96%, respectively. Specificity for the ACTH stimulation test was higher (91%) than that of the LDDS test (70%). When prevalence of the disease in the study population was taken into consideration, the positive-predictive value for the ACTH stimulation test was 91%, compared with 76% for the LDDS test.

Clinical Implications—

The ACTH stimulation test was more specific than the LDDS test, although sensitivity was similar for both tests. The ACTH stimulation test also had a significantly higher positive-predictive value than the LDDS test when a prevalence of 25% was taken into consideration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:322–325)
Insulin overdose in dogs and cats: 28 cases (1986–1993)
Authors: Whitley Nathaniel T. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Panciera David L.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To characterize the frequency, medical history, clinical signs, methods of treatment, and outcome of insulin-induced hypoglycemia and to identify predisposing factors.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

8 dogs and 20 cats with diabetes mellitus that developed hypoglycemia because of insulin overdose.

Procedure—

Medical records of dogs and cats receiving insulin for treatment of diabetes mellitus were reviewed. Medical records of dogs and cats that had an episode of hypoglycemia were reviewed in detail.

Results—

Overdosing of insulin was more common in cats than in dogs. Median weight of diabetic cats that became hypoglycemic was significantly greater than that of the hospital population of diabetic cats at diagnosis. Eighty percent of cats that became hypoglycemic were receiving insulin doses > 6 U/injection, administered once or twice daily. Dose and type of insulin did not correlate with duration or severity of hypoglycemia. In 7 of 8 dogs and 10 of 20 cats, management factors or concurrent medical problems were considered to be predisposing causes for insulin overdose. Two dogs and 2 cats did not have clinical signs of hypoglycemia, despite documented low concentrations of glucose in their blood.

Clinical Implications—

Diabetic cats, especially if obese, are at greater risk of insulin overdose than are diabetic dogs. The reason for overdose may not be evident. Diabetic dogs and cats may become hypoglycemic without developing autonomic warning signs of hypoglycemia, or these signs may not be recognized (hypoglycemia unawareness). (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:326–330)
Results of a survey to assess knowledge and expectations of veterinarians and their clients regarding heartworm preventives and vaccinations in dogs
Authors: New John C. , Reinemeyer Craig R. , Burr J. Hilty H. , Kelch William J.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the knowledge and expectations of veterinarians and clients regarding heart-worm preventives and annual vaccinations for dogs.

Design—

Practitioner and client survey.

Sample Population—

435 veterinarians and 1,805 clients.

Procedure—

A survey was mailed to veterinarians requesting information from them and their dog-owning clients on expectations and knowledge regarding heartworm preventives and annual vaccinations. Responses of veterinarians were compared with those of clients, and both were compared with label indications.

Results—

Expectations of veterinarians and clients regarding heartworm preventives were similar and usually were consistent with regulatory interpretation of label terms. Of clients purchasing heartworm preventives, 38% did not know that the medication was effective against intestinal nematodes. Veterinarians and clients would be unsatisfied with a product that reduced, but did not eliminate, all intestinal nematodes. Most clients knew that annual vaccinations included distemper virus, parvovirus, and rabies virus, but about half of them did not know that other antigens were in the vaccines.

Clinical Implications—

Effects of heartworm preventives and diseases for which dogs are annually vaccinated should be explained fully to clients. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:434–437)
Comparison of ketoprofen, oxymorphone hydrochloride, and butorphanol in the treatment of postoperative pain in dogs
Authors: Pibarot Philippe , Dupuis Jacques , Grisneaux Emmanuelle , Cuvelliez Sophie , Planté Jérôme , Beauregard Guy , Bonneau Norbert H. , Bouffard Johanne , Blais Diane
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To compare analgesic effects of ketoprofen, oxymorphone hydrochloride, and butorphanol when used to control postoperative pain associated with elective orthopedic surgery in dogs.

Design—

Prospective randomized clinical trial.

Animals—

70 dogs undergoing orthopedic surgery on a hind limb.

Procedure—

Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 postoperative analgesic treatment groups: ketoprofen alone, oxymorphone alone, butorphanol alone, or ketoprofen-oxymorphone. Drugs were given IM at the end of anesthesia. Pain score, sedation score, arterial blood pressures, arterial blood gas partial pressures, and plasma Cortisol concentration were measured for 12 hours after surgery. If the pain score was ≥ 9, supplemental oxymorphone was administered IM.

Results—

The proportion of dogs that did not require supplemental treatment with oxymorphone was significantly higher for the ketoprofen alone and ketoprofen-oxymorphone groups than for the oxymorphone alone group. During the first hour after surgery, pain score was lower for oxymorphone alone and ketoprofen-oxymorphone groups than for ketoprofen or butorphanol alone groups. Significant differences were not detected among groups in regard to pain score 2 and 3 hours after surgery or in regard to arterial blood pressures at any time. From 4 to 12 hours after surgery, pain score was significantly lower for the ketoprofen alone group than for other groups. Plasma Cortisol concentration was significantly higher for the oxymorphone alone group 6 and 8 hours after surgery, compared with other groups.

Clinical Implications—

Except during the first hour after surgery, dogs given ketoprofen alone after elective orthopedic surgery had a greater level of, and longer-lasting, analgesia than did dogs given oxymorphone or butorphanol alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:438–444)
Assessment of parasite control and weight gain after use of an ivermectin sustained-release bolus in calves
Authors: Ryan William G. , Crawford Richard J. , Gross Sheila J. , Wallace Dennis H.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To assess parasite control and weight gain after administration of an ivermectin sustained-release bolus over 135 days to calves grazing in the midwestern United States.

Design

Replicated pasture study.

Animals

56 Bos taurus calves.

Procedure

Calves were matched for body weight and randomly allocated to remain untreated or to receive an ivermectin sustained-release bolus before turnout on day 0. Calves were grazed by treatment group on 8 pastures (4 replicates). Body weights and fecal egg counts were recorded on days −1 and 28, and then at 28-day intervals until day 168.

Results

Parasitism was not clinically evident prior to or during the study. In treated calves, mean fecal egg counts were at or near 0 at all posttreatment evaluations. Although the mean egg count exceeded 20 ova/g only once in control calves, the cumulative egg output was > 42 million/calf. For the treated group, it was < 0.1% of this number. Mean total weight gain was 33.9 kg (74.6 lb) greater for ivermectin-treated calves than for untreated control calves (P < 0.02); a 34% increase.

Clinical Implications

Fecal trichostrongyle eggs from calves can accumulate over a grazing season to provide enormous potential for augmenting pasture infectivity. An ivermectin sustained-release bolus (administered to calves being placed on pasture) controls parasitism, limits pasture infectivity, and can substantially influence growth by limiting the impact of subclinical parasitism. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:754–756)
Effects of iatrogenic blood contamination on results of cerebrospinal fluid analysis in clinically normal dogs and dogs with neurologic disease
Authors: Hurtt Anne Elizabeth , Smith Mary Olivia
Published: December 2023

Objective

To examine the effects that iatrogenic blood contamination would have on total protein concentration and nucleated cell count in CSF from clinically normal dogs and dogs with neurologic disease.

Design

Case-control study.

Study Population

53 dogs confirmed to have neurologic disease and 21 clinically normal dogs.

Procedure

CSF samples were obtained from the cerebellomedullary cistern or the lumbar portion of the subarachnoid space. Red blood and nucleated cell counts were determined, and protein concentration was measured.

Results

RBC count was not significantly correlated with nucleated cell count or protein concentration in clinically normal dogs or dogs with neurologic disease.

Clinical Implications

High CSF nucleated cell counts and protein concentrations are indicative of neurologic disease, even if samples contain moderate amounts of blood contamination. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:866–867)
Factors associated with prolonged weaning-to-mating interval among sows on farms that wean pigs early
Authors: Koketsu Yuzo , Dial Gary D.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine factors associated with weaning-to-mating interval among sows on commercial farms that wean pigs early.

Design

Cohort study.

Animals

11,861 farrowing sows.

Procedure

Production, farrowing, and feed intake records were reviewed for sows on 16 farms for which mean duration of lactation was between 14.9 and 18.9 days.

Results

Among sows with high feed intake during lactation (≥ 5.6 kg/d [12.3 lb/d]), lactation duration was not associated with weaning-to-mating interval, but among sows with low feed intake during lactation (< 5.6 kg/d), weaning-to-mating interval increased as lactation duration decreased. Furthermore, among sows with the lowest feed intake during lactation (< 4.2 kg/d [9.2 lb/d]), those that had heavier litter weights at weaning (> 54 kg [119 lb]) had a longer weaning-to-mating interval than did those that had lighter litter weights at weaning. Sows with low feed intake and high litter weight at weaning accounted for 5 to 20% of sows on each farm. In general, weaning-to-mating interval increased as parity decreased, but the change in weaning-to-mating interval associated with a particular change in lactation duration varied with parity.

Clinical Implications

When feed intake during lactation is maximized (≥ 5.6 kg/d), lactation duration is not significantly associated with weaning-to-mating interval. Producers should consider fostering or partially weaning litters when sows with high litter weights are not consuming sufficient feed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:894–898)