bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tick control by small-scale cattle farmers in the central Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Masika P.J. , Sonandi A. , Van Averbeke W.
Published: August 2012

A survey conducted in 5 magisterial districts involving rapid rural appraisal and a questionnaire showed participation in state-managed and funded dipping programmes by cattle owners in communal areas of the central Eastern Cape to be nearly complete, with 98 % of livestock owners interviewed participating in all dipping events. Disease control was the main reason for participation, but farmers perceive dipping to have a much broader disease-preventing activity than is really the case. Other reasons for participation in dipping programmes were to prevent ticks from sucking blood, provide animals with a clean appearance, and prevent damage to teats of cows. Many livestock owners complement dipping with other tick control measures, including old motor oil, household disinfectant, pour-on acaricide and manual removal of ticks. Recently local farming communities were given the responsibility of buying dipping acaricide. This has presented them with the challenge of developing farmer-managed, cost-effective tick control programmes. At present, this process is constrained by lack of information and farmer training.
Efficacy of doxycycline in a goat model of Pasteurella pneumonia : research communication
Authors: Ole-Mapenay I.M. , Mitema E.S.
Published: August 2012

The clinical efficacy of doxycycline (Doxycen(R), Cenavisa, Spain), a long-acting preparation, was evaluated for treatment of Pasteurella haemolytica infection in 6 goats. One goat was not infected and served as a control. The disease was induced by intratracheal inoculation of 107 to 109 cfu of P. haemolytica. Confirmation of respiratory disease was based on evidence of appropriate clinical signs. Before and after initiation of doxycycline treatment on day 10, each goat was examined daily. Three clinical responses to doxycycline treatment were noted. Mean rectal temperatures decreased from 40.1 oC to normal, while mean respiratory rate decreased from the pre-treatment value of 32 to 27/min after 4 days. Other clinical signs associated with pneumonia resolved within 3-5 days post treatment. In addition the minimum inhibitory concentration of DOTC for the P. haemolytica isolate was found to be 0.5 mg/mℓ. The present study indicates that DOTC may be a useful antimicrobial agent in the treatment of caprine pasteurellosis.
Acute effects of an anionic diet on bone mineral homeostasis in the bovine
Authors: Beighle D.E. , Boyazoglu P.A. , Hemken R.W.
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT Fifteen Friesian oxen between 12 and 18 months of age with a mean body mass of 240.7 kg were randomly assigned to diets containing 0.25 % phosphorus (P) or less, to evaluate the acute effects of an acidiogenic diet of -11.1 meq/100 g of diet dry matter, compared with a basiogenic diet of +25.6 meq/100 g or a control diet of +16.5 meq/100 g of diet dry matter calculated as (Na + K) - (Cl + S), on blood, bone and faecal P, calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) for a period of 9 weeks. Blood, bone and faecal responses to an anionic diet are described. An inverse relationship existed between bone and blood Ca, in which there was resorption from bone with increased blood Ca in response to the anionic diet. The anionic treatment group demonstrated simultaneous increases in bone, blood and faecal P concentrations at various stages of the experiment compared to the cationic and control treatment groups. Results indicate independent absorption and resorption of Ca and P into and out of bone. There was wide variation in the bone Ca:P ratio between 2.02 and 1.51 among animals fed the anionic diet, with the Ca:P ratio following Ca values and not bone P values. Bone and blood P had a linear relationship with dietary cation:anion balance (DCAB), increasing as the diet became more anionic in nature, but faecal P was curvilinear with highest concentrations at -11.1 and +25.6 meq/100 g compared to +16.5 meq/100 g. Concurrent blood, bone and faecal P increases at some stages of the experiment indicate a P-sparing effect of the anionic diet and warrants further research into the long-term effects of anions in the diet, leading to their use as a possible addition to improved licks in P-deficient areas.
The effect of dietary protein on reproduction in the mare. II. Growth of foals, body mass of mares and serum protein concentration of mares during the anovulatory, transitional and pregnant periods
Authors: Van Niekerk F.E. , Van Niekerk C.H.
Published: August 2012

The effect of 4 different diets, in terms of protein quantity and quality, on total serum protein (TSP), albumin and globulin was investigated. Non-pregnant mares that were not lactating (n = 36), pregnant mares that had foaled (n = 24) and their foals (n = 24) were used in this study. Daily total protein intake had no effect on blood protein concentrations in the mares. Total protein intake and quality (available essential amino-acids) did affect the body mass of mares during lactation. When mares were fed the minimum recommended (National Research Council 1989) total daily protein, foal mass decreased by approximately 25 % at weaning compared to the foals whose dams were on a higher level of protein intake. The TSP concentrations of foals at birth were on average 10 g/ℓ lower than those of the mares. Albumin concentrations of foals during the first 60 days of life were on average 2-3 g/ℓ lower than those of the mares. Globulin concentrations of foals were approximately 5 g/ℓ lower than those of mares at weaning.
The effect of dietary protein on reproduction in the mare. III. Ovarian and uterine changes during the anovulatory, transitional and ovulatory periods in the non-pregnant mare
Authors: Van Niekerk F.E. , Van Niekerk C.H.
Published: August 2012

In the main experiment the total daily protein intake and quality (essential amino-acids) was varied in 4 groups of mares. The incidence of oestrus in mares during the transitional period was unaffected by protein nutrition. Ovarian activity, as evaluated by follicular development and size of the ovaries, was affected. Mares that received low-quality protein (Groups 1 and 2) had a higher number of smaller follicles (10 mm) that developed during the transitional period compared to mares on a high-quality protein intake (Groups 3 and 4). The mares that received the high quality protein ovulated 2-3 weeks earlier in the breeding season in a synchronised period of 4-5 weeks compared to a period of 6-8 weeks in Groups 1 and 2. The duration of the subsequent oestrous cycles was not affected. There was no difference in the diameter of the largest follicle of mares between groups on the day before ovulation. In a separate experiment, 5 maiden Anglo-Arab mares, 4-5 years of age, were slaughtered at different stages during the anovulatory, transitional and ovulatory periods of the breeding cycle. The morphology of the ovaries and uteri of these mares was described and photographed for use as guidelines when comparing ovarian changes and follicular activity of mares.
Vermeersiekte caused by Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. burkei var. hirtella Merxm. in the Northern Province of South Africa : research communication
Authors: Botha C.J. , Gous T.A. , Penrith M-L. , Naudé T.W. , Labuschagne L. , Retief E.
Published: August 2012

The 1st field outbreak of vermeersiekte induced by Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. burkei var. hirtella Merxm. is reported. It is also the first recorded outbreak of this disease in the arid sweet bushveld of the Northern Province of South Africa. The toxicosis was experimentally reproduced in a sheep following daily intraruminal administration of 2.5-5.0 g/kg dried, milled plant material for 18 consecutive days. Neither the sheep in the field outbreak nor the ewe in the experiment exhibited any signs of regurgitation of rumen contents (vermeersiekte). All developed only the stiff or paretic/paralytic forms of the disease. Serum activities of CK and GGT were slightly raised in clinically affected sheep (n = 11) during the field outbreak, and serum activities of AST, GLDH, GGT, LDH and CK increased in the ewe dosed with the plant material. Analysis of dried, milled Geigeria plant material confirms that this species is moderately nutritious.
The effect of diminazene aceturate on cholinesterase activity in dogs with canine babesiosis
Authors: Milner R.J. , Reyers F. , Taylor J.H. , Van den Berg J.S.
Published: August 2012

A clinical trial was designed to evaluate the effects of diminazene aceturate and its stabiliser antipyrine on serum pseudocholinesterase (PChE) and red blood cell acetylcholinesterase (RBC AChE) in dogs with babesiosis. The trial was conducted on naturally occurring, uncomplicated cases of babesiosis (n = 20) that were randomly allocated to groups receiving a standard therapeutic dose of diminazene aceturate with antipyrine stabiliser (n = 10) or antipyrine alone (n = 10). Blood was drawn immediately before and every 15 minutes for 1 hour after treatment. Plasma PChE showed a 4 % decrease between 0 and 60 min within the treatment group (p 0.05). No statistically significant differences were found between the treatment and control groups at any of the time intervals for PChE. There was an increase in RBC AChE activity at 15 min in the treatment group (p 0.05). No significant differences were found between the treatment and control groups at any time interval for RBC AChE. In view of the difference in PChE, samples from additional, new cases (n = 10) of canine babesiosis were collected to identify the affect of the drug over 12 hours. No significant depression was identified over this time interval. The results suggests that the underlying mechanism in producing side-effects, when they do occur, is unlikely to be through cholinesterase depression.
The effect of dietary protein on reproduction in the mare. IV. Serum progestagen, FSH, LH and melatonin concentrations during the anovulatory, transitional and ovulatory periods in the non-pregnant mare
Authors: Van Niekerk F.E. , Van Niekerk C.H.
Published: August 2012

The effect of total protein intake and protein quality on the serum concentrations of certain reproductive hormones during the anovulatory, transitional and ovulatory periods were studied in 36 Anglo-Arab mares. High-quality protein stimulated FSH and LH production during the late transitional period. Serum progestagen and melatonin concentrations were unaffected by the quality of protein nutrition during the anovulatory period. Mares receiving high-quality protein exhibited a 10-14-day cyclical pattern of FSH release approximately 4-6 weeks earlier than the mares fed the lower-quality protein diet, and also ovulated 3-4 weeks earlier than the mares on the lower-quality protein diet. Progesterone concentrations during the 1st oestrous cycle after the anovulatory period were unaffected by protein quality in the diet.
The effect of high broiler litter diets as survival ration on the health of sheep
Authors: Mavimbela D.T. , Van Ryssen J.B.J. , Last R.
Published: August 2012

The use of broiler litter as an emergency feed during droughts and other periods of feed shortages was evaluated in terms of its effect on the health of sheep. Pure broiler litter (i.e. excreta plus wood shavings), and litter mixed with 7.5 or 15 % molasses were fed for 83 days to 2-year-old wethers. The addition of molasses to the litter caused a significant increase (p 0.01) in feed intake and final body mass. Various parameters such as plasma enzyme activity, plasma metabolite concentrations and urine mineral and purine excretion did not differ among treatments. Histological evaluation revealed no liver or kidney pathology. Mild myocardial pathology was observed in all 3 treatment groups. This seems to be related to the presence of the ionophore-based coccidiostat, narasin, which was present in the litter at a concentration of 10 mg/kg. It is suggested that these histological lesions are of little practical significance and would not affect the health of sheep being fed the broiler litter as a survival feed.
An epizoological study of wastage in Thoroughbred racehorses in Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Olivier A. , Nurton J.P. , Guthrie A.J.
Published: August 2012

Wastage is the term used to describe the phenomenon of the loss of racehorses from conception to adulthood due to death or injuries (i.e. they never reach a race-track), or the days lost by racehorses due to not training or being withdrawn from a race. This epizoological study was conducted to investigate wastage in Thoroughbred horses used for flat racing in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Data from 6 racing stables were recorded from 1 March 1993 to 28 February 1994. Each trainer completed a daily training record of the horses in his stable. This questionnaire included reasons why a horse failed to train on a specific day, or was withdrawn from a race. During the year, 8480 days (8.1 %) of the 105 108 total potential training days were lost by horses in the stables investigated. Of the days lost, 72.1 % were due to lameness, 8.6 % to respiratory problems, and 19.3 % to other causes. The lost training days for the individual trainers ranged from 5.4 to 12.6 %. Of the 579 horses included in the study, 291 horses (50.3 %) lost one or more training days; 541 problems resulting in wastage were found in these 291 horses; 263 (48.6 %) cases were due to lameness and 49 (9.0 %) were caused by coughing. The balance were caused by poor weather conditions (11.3 %), vaccinations (7.2 %), wounds (4.6 %), abnormal haematology results (1.8 %), inappetence (2.2 %), nasal discharge (2.0 %), epistaxis (1.8 %), babesiosis (1.8 %), miscellaneous other conditions (7.9 %) and unknown causes (1.8 %). An attempt was made to continue the study for a 2nd year but too few questionnaires were returned. However, it was evident that the percentage of lost training days (8.2 %) was similar to that of the previous year. The training days lost due to lameness (66.9 %) and respiratory problems (8.4 %) were also similar to those of the previous year. From the findings of the present study, it was concluded that lameness and respiratory disorders were the major causes of wastage in Thoroughbred racehorses in Gauteng. Further research into these causes of wastage in racehorses is needed.
The effect of activation of the lactoperoxidase system and souring on certain potential human pathogens in cows' milk
Authors: Kangumba J.G.K. , Venter E.H. , Coetzer J.A.W.
Published: August 2012

Conventional methods of ensuring the safety and soundness of cows' milk for human consumption, such as pasteurisation, are not always practical in poor socioeconomic conditions or in rural communities that lack modern amenities. Activation of lactoperoxidase (LP) system and souring of milk were investigated as potential alternative methods to sustain the safety of milk by inhibiting certain microorganisms with known pathogenic potential. The activation of the LP-system inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli by the order of 2 log values. The inhibition of Brucella abortus was negligible. The replication of Coxiella burnetti in milk was not disturbed even after 17 h of LP-system activation at 20 oC, but the outcome of the LP-system treatment on Mycobacterium bovis could not be determined as the conventional culturing technique used to grow this organism did not allow full recovery. Souring inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli also by the order of 2 log values. From the results obtained in this investigation are concluded that the activation of the LP-system and souring can be used to inhibit the growth of S. aureus and E. coli in cows' milk, thereby increasing its safety.
A survey of animal welfare needs in Soweto : research communication
Authors: McCrindle C.M.E. , Cornelius S.T. , Schoeman H.S.
Published: August 2012

The diagnostic phase of an interactive research evaluation model was used in the investigation of the animal welfare needs of a low-income urban community in South Africa. Data were gathered by means of a structured interview and direct observations by animal welfare officers. During the survey of 871 animal owners in Soweto, it was found that dogs were owned by 778 households and cats by 88 households. The dog to human ratio was estimated at 1:12.4. Respondents were asked whether they enjoyed owning animals and 96.1 % said that they did. Only 26.3 % mentioned that they had problems with their own animals and 16.6 % had problems with other people's animals. Treatment of sick animals (29.7 %) was seen as a priority. However, less than 1 % (n = 6) used the services of private veterinarians. Others took their animals to welfare organisations or did not have them treated. Perceptions of affordable costs of veterinary treatments were also recorded. In addition to treatment, respondents indicated a need for vaccination (22.5 %), sterilisation (16.5 %), control of internal (3.7 %) and external (8.8 %) parasites, education and extension (6.6 %), prevention of cruelty to animals (3.2 %) and expansion of veterinary clinics to other parts of Soweto (1.3 %).
A survey of anthelmintic resistance on ten sheep farms in Mashonaland East Province, Zimbabwe : research communication
Authors: Mukaratirwa S. , Charakupa R. , Hove T.
Published: August 2012

A survey to detect anthelmintic resistance in nematode parasites of sheep was conducted on 10 randomly-distributed farms in the Chivhu District, Mashonaland East Province, Zimbabwe. Before the survey, a questionnaire was circulated to the farmers concerning nematode parasite control. Results showed that parasite control using anthelmintic treatment was the only method practised and that the benzimidazoles were the most frequently used anthelmintic drugs. The faecal egg count reduction test was used to detect resistance. The anthelmintic groups tested were benzimidazoles, levamisole and ivermectin. Resistance to benzimidazoles was detected on 6 of 10 farms and levamisole resistance on 2 of 3 farms. Ivermectin resistance was not observed on the farms surveyed. Post-treatment larval cultures indicated that Haemonchus contortus survived administration of fenbendazole, albendazole, oxfendazole and levamisole. A Cooperia sp. strain resistant to albendazole was detected and this is the first report in Zimbabwe of a resistant parasite in this genus.
Right atrial myxosarcoma in a dog : case report
Authors: Briggs O.M. , Kirberger R.M. , Goldberg N.B.
Published: August 2012

A case of right atrial myxosarcoma is described in a Staffordshire bull terrier with a history of weight loss, exercise intolerance and collapse. The diagnosis of an intracavitary cardiac tumour was made on echocardiography. The dog was euthanased. Secondary spread to the lungs and lymph nodes was present. Myxoma is one of the rare intracavitary cardiac tumours and this case is believed to be the 1st report of its more malignant form in the dog.
Index, Volume 68 - 1997 : author / Indeks, Jaargang 68 - 1997 : outeur
Authors: Author Index
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 68, Issue 4, Dec
Genetic markers in the blood of animals : a historical review : information
Authors: Osterhoff D.R.
Published: August 2012

In this review an attempt is made to list the most important events in the search for genetic markers in the blood of animals. In chronological order, blood groups, biochemical polymorphisms, lymphocyte antigens and DNA markers have been discovered and used in practice. Of all practical uses, parentage verification and exclusion are regarded as the most important, and it can be said with pride that the South African Stud Book is as infallible as any other stud book in the world.
Psychogenic alopecia in a cat : response to clomipramine : clinical communication
Authors: Swanepoel N. , Lee E. , Stein D.J.
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 69, Issue 1, Mar
Hyperreninaemic hypoaldosteronism in a dog : case report
Authors: Lobetti R.G.
Published: August 2012

A 9-year-old male German shepherd dog was evaluated for clinical and clinico-pathological changes that were suggestive of Addison's disease. On further investigation the basal plasma cortisol concentration was high, a normal cortisol response to ACTH stimulation occurred, plasma renin activity was elevated and low serum aldosterone concentration was present. A diagnosis of hyperreninaemic hypoaldosteronism was made. Replacement fludrocortisone resulted in complete normalisation of the electrolyte and fluid imbalances. Hyperreninaemic hypoaldosteronism has never been reported in the dog.
Prevalence of gastro-oesophageal ulcers in grower-finisher pigs in the Northern Province of South Africa : research communication
Authors: Makinde M.O. , Gous T.A.
Published: August 2012

Ulceration of the gastric pars oesophagea is a common problem in intensive pig production that is often detected at slaughter. A survey was carried out at the Pietersburg abattoir in the Northern Province during a 6-month period. In total, 4320 pig stomachs were examined. Gastro-oesophageal ulcers were observed in 5.1 % of the stomachs, gastric erosion in 15.2 %, and hyperkeratosis in 18.9 %. Time of slaughter was found to affect the prevalence of gastric lesions in the pig.
Observations on the use of midazolam for sedation, and induction of anaesthesia with midazolam in combination with ketamine in the goat
Authors: Stegmann G.F.
Published: August 2012

Midazolam hydrochloride administered intramuscularly at a dosage of 0.4 mg/kg induced sedation and sternal recumbency in goats. Increasing the dosage to 1 mg/kg resulted in rapid onset of ataxia followed by lateral recumbency, and loss of consciousness. Light surgical anaesthesia lasted for a period of 7-15 min and was suitable for non-painful procedures. Heart rate was significantly increased (p 0.05) at both dosage rates, while respiration rate was only increased after midazolam at 0.4 mg/kg. The combination of midazolam (0.4 mg/kg) and ketamine hydrochloride (4 mg/kg) increased heart and respiration rate significantly (p 0.05). A light plane of surgical anaesthesia suitable for endotracheal intubation was induced, which lasted for a period of 16-39 min.
Tuberculosis in Kafue lechwe (Kobus leche kafuensis) and in a bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) on a game ranch in Central Province, Zambia : case report
Authors: Zieger U. , Pandey G.S. , Kriek N.P.J. , Cauldwell A.E.
Published: August 2012

Mycobacteriosis was diagnosed for the first time outside a national park in free-ranging wild animals on a game ranch in Zambia. A Kafue lechwe (Kobus leche kafuensis) was found dead with tuberculous lesions on a ranch near Lusaka. Acid-fast bacilli were found in the affected organs. Mycobacteria were isolated from these tissues. A bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) was found dead on the same ranch with multiple superficial abscesses in the neck region, extensive granulomatous lesions in the lung, the bronchial and mediastinal lymph nodes and several nodular lesions in the spleen. Few acid-fast bacilli were found in the exudate from the abscesses and lesions in the affected organs. Histologically the lesions resembled those of tuberculosis, but mycobacteria could not be isolated. In addition, 1 Kafue lechwe among 37 wild ungulates of 13 species shot on the ranch showed typical tuberculous lesions in the lungs, but the diagnosis was not confirmed by bacterial isolation. The role of the Kafue lechwe as maintenance host for tuberculosis as well as in the possible spread of this disease to other wildlife are discussed.
Atypical dermoid sinus in a chow chow dog : case report
Authors: Booth M.J.
Published: August 2012

A case of multiple dermoid sinuses in the dorsal cervical and craniothoracic regions in an adult chow chow dog is described. One sinus did not open on the skin surface. This is the first reported case of the condition in this breed and the first time absence of the sinus opening on the skin is described. The use of the term pilonidal sinus to describe this condition is challenged.
A case of ovine lymphosarcoma in Kenya : case report
Authors: Maribei J.M. , Njoroge E.M. , Njiro S.M.
Published: August 2012

Ovine lymphosarcoma was diagnosed clinically in a 5-year-old Blackhead sheep in Kenya, and confirmed on blood smear, leukocyte count and macroscopic pathology. Four progeny of the ewe were examined. They were normal haematologically but 2 revealed bilaterally enlarged lymph nodes.
Clinical aspects of an outbreak of papillomatous digital dermatitis in a dairy cattle herd : case report
Authors: Yeruham I. , Perl S.
Published: August 2012

Digital skin lesions and lameness of several weeks duration, with a morbidity rate of 28.3 %, was reported in a group of 60 Holstein-Israeli dairy cows in various stages of lactation. A clinical survey was performed to monitor recovery and to confirm eradication of bovine papillomatous digital dermatitis in the herd. The combined effects of intensive individual treatment of the 4 lame cattle with procaine penicillin and metronidazole, and subjecting all animals in the herd to a foot bath with a solution composed of formaldehyde and sodium hydroxide twice a week for 12 weeks, were found to achieve a dramatic positive response in all affected cows in the herd. During a 1-year follow-up period no recurrence and/or new cases have been diagnosed.
Perioperative plasma cortisol concentration in the horse
Authors: Stegmann G.F. , Jones R.S.
Published: August 2012

The cortisol response to anaesthesia and surgery was studied in 2 groups of horses undergoing either abdominal or non-abdominal surgery. The preoperative mean plasma cortisol concentration (pcc) of 381.7 nmol/ℓ (s.d. 254.7) was markedly higher in the abdominal group than the early-morning mean pcc of 115.6 nmol/ℓ (s.d. 78.4) in the non-abdominal group. During halothane anaesthesia and surgery themeanpcc increased significantly (p 0.05) from the preoperativemeanof 119.2 to 215.9 nmol/ℓ (s.d. 79.8) after 30 min of surgery in the non-abdominal group. In the abdominal group a decrease occurred after induction of anaesthesia and surgical preparation, but increased during surgery to a mean pcc of 418.1 nmol/ℓ (s.d. 236.5). In the postoperative period a large decrease in the mean pcc occurred after 24 h in the abdominal group. It was only after 60 h that the pcc (153.2 nmol/ℓ ) equalled the pcc of the non-abdominal group (171.4 nmol/ℓ ) at 24 h . The slow decline over 60 h could be an indication of the prolonged recovery associated with abdominal surgery in the horse.
The effect of dietary protein on reproduction in the mare. VI. Serum progestagen concentrations during pregnancy
Authors: Van Niekerk F.E. , Van Niekerk C.H.
Published: August 2012

Sixty-four Thoroughbred and Anglo-Arab mares aged 6-12 years were used, of which 40 were non-lactating and 24 lactating. Foals from these 24 mares were weaned at the age of 6 months. Non-lactating and lactating mares were divided into 4 dietary groups each. The total daily protein intake and the protein quality (essential amino-acid content) differed in the 4 groups of non-lactating and 4 groups of lactating mares. The mares were covered and the effect of the quantity and quality of dietary protein on serum progestagen concentrations during pregnancy was studied. A sharp decline in serum progestagen concentrations was recorded in all dietary groups from Days 18 to 40 of pregnancy, with some individual mares reaching values of less than 4 ng/mℓ. Serum progestagen concentrations recorded in some of the non-lactating mares on the low-quality protein diet increased to higher values (p0.05) than those of mares in the other 3 dietary groups at 35-140 days of pregnancy. A similar trend was observed for the lactating mares on a low-quality protein diet at 30-84 days of pregnancy. No such trends were observed in any of the other dietary groups. High-quality protein supplementation increased serum progestagen concentrations during the 1st 30 days of pregnancy. Lactation depressed serum progestagen concentrations until after the foals were weaned.
Mokola virus infection : description of recent South African cases and a review of the virus epidemiology : case report
Authors: Von Teichman B.F. , De Koker W.C. , Bosch S.J.E. , Bishop G.C. , Meredith C.D. , Bingham J.
Published: August 2012

Five cases of Mokola virus, a lyssavirus related to rabies, are described. The cases occurred in cats from the East London, Pinetown and Pietermaritzburg areas of South Africa from February 1996 to February 1998. Each of the cats was suspected of being rabid and their brains were submitted for laboratory confirmation. Four of the cases were positive, but with atypical fluorescence, and 1 was negative. Mokola virus infection was identified by anti-lyssavirus nucleocapsid monoclonal antibody typing. As in rabies cases, the predominant clinical signs were of unusual behaviour. Aggression was present, but only during handling. Four of the 5 cats had been vaccinated for rabies, which is consistent with other studies that show that rabies vaccination does not appear to protect against Mokola virus. Since Mokola may be confused with rabies, the incidence of Mokola virus may be more common in Africa than is currently reported. As human infections may be fatal, the emergence of this virus is a potential threat to public health.
Antimicrobial selection, administration and dosage : continuing education
Authors: Baggot J.D.
Published: August 2012

Various types of information contribute to the selection of an antimicrobial agent. Initial requirements are diagnosis of the site and nature of the infection, assessment of the severity of the infectious process and medical condition of the diseased animal; these are embodied in clinical experience. Additional considerations include identification of the causative pathogenic microorganism, knowledge of its susceptibility to antimicrobial agents (microbiological considerations) and of the pharmacokinetic properties of the drug of choice and alternative drugs, and their potential toxicity (pharmacological considerations) in the animal species. Select an antimicrobial drug and dosage form appropriate for use in the particular animal species. Usual dosage regimens may be applied, except in the presence of renal or hepatic impairment, when either modified dosage or a drug belonging to another class should be used. The duration of therapy is determined by monitoring the response both by clinical assessment and bacterial culture. A favourable clinical response is the ultimate criterion of successful therapy.
Vacuum phenomenon in equine carpal, metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints
Authors: Gottschalk R.D. , Kirberger R.M. , Fourie S.L.
Published: August 2012

In order to establish the incidence of vacuum phenomenon in horses' carpal, metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints, stress-flexed radiographs were madeof normal joints, joints withknownpathology and in anaesthetised horses with joints under traction. Focal intra-articular radiolucencies were identified in normal stress-flexed carpal, metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints. These radiolucencies can be confused with those associated with pathological conditions.
Cryptococcosis in captive cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) : two cases : case report
Authors: Bolton L.A. , Lobetti R.G. , Evezard D.N. , Picard J.A. , Nesbit J.W. , Van Heerden J. , Burroughs R.E.J.
Published: August 2012

Cryptococcus neoformans is a yeast-like organism associated with pulmonary, meningoencephalitic, or systemic disease. This case report documents 2 cases of cryptococcosis with central nervous system involvement in captive cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). In both cases the predominant post mortal lesions were pulmonary cryptococcomas and extensive meningoencephalomyelitis. Both cheetahs tested negative for feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukaemia virus. The organism isolated in Case 2 was classified as Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii, which is mainly associated with disease in immunocompetent hosts.
Chlamydia-induced septic polyarthritis in a dog : case report
Authors: Lambrechts N. , Picard J. , Tustin R.C.
Published: August 2012

A systemic disease associated with pyrexia, lymphadenopathy, and arthropathy of several joints of the appendicular skeleton in a dog is described. Chlamydia-like organisms were detected on light-microscopic examination of a smear made from joint fluid aspirated from one of the affected joints. A group-specific lipopolysaccharide antigen shared by all Chlamydia spp. was demonstrated by direct fluorescent antibody staining of joint fluid, which also proved positive for chlamydia by means of the relevant polymerase chain reaction test. An indirect fluorescent antibody test on serumwas also positive, although the complement fixation test was negative. Attempts to grow the organism from joint aspirates in the yolk sac of embryonating hens' eggs and on appropriate tissue cultures, however, failed. Chlamydia spp. are considered to have played an aetiological role in this case, making it the first substantiated case of naturally-occurring arthropathy in a dog due to chlamydiosis. The origin of the infection could not be traced.
31st Annual Scientific Meeting : Parasitological Society of Southern Africa : conference abstracts
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 70, Issue 1, Mar
Intravascular plasma disposition and salivary secretion of closantel and rafoxanide in sheep
Authors: Swan G.E. , Koeleman H.A. , Steyn H.S. , Mülders M.S.G.
Published: August 2012

The plasma and salivary disposition of closantel and rafoxanide were examined following intravenous administration in adult sheep. Two studies were conducted with rafoxanide at 7.5 mg/kg and 1 with closantel using 2 doses (5 and 15 mg/kg). The pharmacokinetic profile of both drugs in plasma were best described by a 2-compartmental model with 1st-order rate constants. Plasma disposition of closantel and rafoxanide were characterised by a rapid distribution (t1/2(a) of 30 min), long elimination half-life (t1/2(b) of 17.0 + 4.0 days for closantel and 7.2 + 0.6 days for rafoxanide), small apparent volume of distribution (Vss of 0.15 ℓ/kg) and a slow rate of total body clearance (Cl of 0.01mℓ/min/kg). The area under the drug plasma concentration curve (AUC) of closantel at 5 mg/kg was nearly twice as large as that of rafoxanide at 7.5 mg/kg resulting from the slower t1/2(b) observed with closantel compared to rafoxanide. Large individual differences were observed in the rate measurements of distribution (k12, k21 and t1/2(a)), whereas the parameters of elimination (k10, t1/2(b) and Cl), were more consistent between animals. A dose proportional increase in AUC was observed for closantel administered at 5 and 15 mg/kg. A low, constant salivary concentration of closantel (mean of 0.04+0.05 mg/mℓ) and rafoxanide (mean of 0.07+0.04 mg/mℓ) was observed during the 24-h examination period after dosing.
Helminth parasites of dogs from two resource-limited communities in South Africa : research communication
Authors: Minnaar W.N. , Krecek R.C. , Rajput J.I.
Published: August 2012

Biological samples were collected from dogs in resource-limited communities in the North-West and Gauteng Provinces of South Africa to assess the prevalence of helminth parasitism. These samples included adhesive tape peri-anal skin swabs and fresh faecal samples for helminth examination, and thick and thin blood films (smears) and whole-blood samples in anticoagulant for examination of filarial nematode microfilariae and haemoprotozoa. The eggs of Ancylostoma caninum, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Dipylidium caninum and taeniids were identified. None of the blood samples and smears tested positive for microfilariae of Dirofilaria immitis or Dipetalonema spp. or for haemoprotozoa. The adhesive tape swabs were negative for cestode eggs and segments. Most of the helminth parasites identified in this study are zoonotic and consequently are regarded as a public health hazard.
An unusual presentation of suspected oedema disease of swine in Kenya : case report
Authors: Mulei C.M. , Ngatia T.A.
Published: August 2012

From a group of 11 recently weaned pigs, 4 were reported to be sick. Clinical examination of the sick pigs revealed marked dyspnoea, bluish-red discolouration of the skin, incoordination and difficulty in walking. Bacteriological examination of the gut contents of 2 pigs that had died earlier yielded pure cultures of haemolytic Escherichia coli. Post mortem examination of the remaining 2 pigs that died subsequently revealed progressive pulmonary collapse. One of these also showed subcutaneous oedema of the head and marked oedema of the mesentery of the spiral colon and oedema of the brain. Microscopically there was pulmonary alveolar collapse and degenerative changes in the liver.On the basis of the clinical signs, isolation of haemolytic E. coli and the post mortem findings, a diagnosis of oedema disease was made.
Isolation of Bartonella henselae from a serologically negative cat in Bloemfontein, South Africa
Authors: Pretorius A-M , Kelly P.J. , Birtles R.J. , Raoult D.
Published: August 2012

Sera collected from apparently healthy 6-12-month-old cats (n = 31) presented to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Veterinary Clinic in Bloemfontein for neutering were tested for antibodies reactive to Bartonella henselae (Houston-1 strain) by indirect fluorescent antibody testing. Whole blood collected from the cats was used in isolation experiments and subsequent identification of Bartonella species was based on comparison of the nucleotide base sequence of polymerase chain reaction-amplified citrate synthase gene fragments. While none of the cats had antibodies reactive with B. henselae at titres 1/64, an organism with a partial citrate synthase gene sequence identical to that of B. henselae (Houston-1) was isolated from 1 cat.
Experimental transmission of Besnoitia caprae in goats : research communication
Authors: Njenga M.J. , Kang’ethe E.K. , Bwangamoi O. , Munyua S.J.M. , Mugera G.M. , Mutiga E.R.
Published: August 2012

Experimental transmission of Besnoitia caprae from naturally chronically-infected goats to susceptible ones was achieved by intra-nasal instillation and intra-conjunctival inoculation of cystozoite-containing suspensions, subcutaneous implantation of fascia containing cysts and alternate needle pricking between the infected and non-infected goats. Typical chronic symptoms developed in the fascia-infected does. Cystozoite inoculation into the eyes and mouth did not result in infection. Kids born of dams with acute and chronic besnoitiosis did not contract the infection in utero, suggesting that intra-uterine transmission may not occur. In contrast to does with acute besnoitiosis, which occasionally aborted, the does with chronic besnoitiosis gave birth to healthy kids. Kids below the age of 4 months (pre-weaned period) born of both infected and non-infected does were susceptible to besnoitiosis but appeared to be more resistant than adult goats.
Etorphine-halothane anaesthesia in two five-year-old African elephants (Loxodonta africana) : clinical communication
Authors: Stegmann G.F.
Published: August 2012

Anaesthesia of 2 five-year-old femaleAfrican elephants (Loxodonta africana) was required for dental surgery. The animals were each premedicated with 120 mg of azaperone 60 min before transportation to the hospital. Before offloading, 1 mg etorphine was administered intramuscularly (i.m.) to each elephant to facilitate walking them to the equine induction / recovery room. For induction, 2 mg etorphine was administered i.m. to each animal. Induction was complete within 6 min. Surgical anaesthesia was induced with halothane-in-oxygen after intubation of the trunk. During surgery the mean heart rate was 61 and 45 beats / min respectively. Systolic blood pressures increased to 27.5 and 25.6 kPa respectively, and were treated with intravenous azaperone. Blood pressure decreased thereafter to a mean systolic pressure of 18.1 and 19.8 kPa, respectively. Rectal temperature was 35.6 and 33.9 oC at the onset of surgery, and decreased to 35.3 and 33.5 oC, respectively, at the end of anaesthesia. Etorphine anaesthesia was reversed with 5mg diprenorphine at the completion of 90 min of surgery.
Laminitis and dermatitis in heifers associated with excessive carbohydrate intake : skin lesions and biochemical findings : case report
Authors: Yeruham I. , Avidar Y. , Bargai U. , Adin G. , Frank D. , Perl S. , Bogin E.
Published: August 2012

The effects of a sudden addition of a large quantity of readily fermentable carbohydrate to the feed ration of pregnant heifers are described. Clinical and pathological changes caused by the resulting disease were confined to the digits and skin. The 4 acutely affected heifers were reluctant to get up or move (group II). They tended to lie down or stand with feet bunched together and the back arched, often shifting weight from limb to limb. They walked stiffly with great tenderness and pain in the digits. Extreme pain was noticed when the digits were examined. In 4 of 8 heifers, separation of the sole at the heel, with leakage of exudate, and under-running of the sole were observed. Necrotic dermatitis of the legs, alopecia and hyperkeratosis of the tail were noticed in all 8 heifers. Skin lesions appeared simultaneously. Four of the heifers (group I) recovered, and the other 4 (group II) were sent to slaughter. No post mortem examination was performed. The biochemical findings revealed a significantly higher concentration of total serum globulins and sodium, and increased activity, in CK, LDH and AST. A significantly decreasing pattern was noted in blood urea concentration, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin and calcium. No significant differences among the various groups were found in the activities of amylase, GGT, and concentration of creatinine, total bilirubin, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium and potassium.
Drug choice and therapeutic drug monitoring in the management of canine primary epilepsy : continuing education
Authors: Vaughan T. , Taylor J.H.
Published: August 2012

Therapeutic drug monitoring is an underutilised resource in the management of canine primary epilepsy. Many of the anti-epileptic drugs, including phenobarbitone, have variable pharmacokinetic profiles in different dogs, with each individual animal showing variable rates of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion. This results in variable serumdrug concentrations with the same oral dose. Many clinicians interpret this situation as therapeutic failure and classify these patients as refractory to treatment. By measuring blood concentrations of drugs at appropriate times, it is possible to explain the efficacy or failure of treatment, and also to prevent serum concentrations from reaching toxic levels. By analysing paired samples, key pharmacokinetic parameters may be calculated for each patient and a profile for the disposition of the drug obtained. Individual optimal drug dosage can be calculated for each patient at little cost to the pet owner.
Index, Volume 70 - 1999 : author / Indeks, Jaargang 70 - 1999 : outeur
Authors: Author Index
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 70, Issue 4, Dec
A krimpsiekte-like syndrome in small stock poisoned by Ornithogalum toxicarium Archer & Archer
Authors: Botha C.J. , Schultz R.A. , Van der Lugt J.J. , Archer C.
Published: August 2012

Krimpsiekte (the syndrome associated with chronic cardiac glycoside poisoning) was purportedly induced by Ornithogalum toxicarium in the Karas mountains area of Keetmanshoop, Namibia. This chinkerinchee species was previously linked to a condition known as 'kwylbek' krimpsiekte in small stock in the Beaufort West district of the Western Cape Province, South Africa. In a dosing trial, respiratory distress, tachycardia and sternal recumbency were observed in 2 sheep drenched with fresh plant material. A fluorescence polarisation immunoassay (FPIA) detected the presence of a substance that cross-reacted with digoxin antibodies in some of the plant material collected at Keetmanshoop and Beaufort West. This is the first time that apparent cardiac glycoside poisoning was induced by a southern African chinkerinchee species. The presence of the cardiac glycoside-like substance in O. toxicarium requires further chemical verification.
Babesia bovis and B. bigemina DNA detected in cattle and ticks from Zimbabwe by polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Smeenk I. , Kelly P.J. , Wray K. , Musuka G. , Trees A.J. , Jongejan F.
Published: August 2012

From blood collected from 94 cattle at 12 locations in the eastern and northeastern areas of Zimbabwe, DNA was extracted and analysed by polymerase chain reaction with primers previously reported to be specific for Babesia bigemina and Babesia bovis. Overall, DNA of Babesia bigemina was detected in the blood of 33/94 (35 %) cattle and DNA from B. bovis was detected in 27/58 (47 %) of cattle. The prevalence of DNA of B. bigemina was significantly higher in young animals (2 years) (23/46) than in animals over 2 years of age (10/48; (chi)2 = 8.77; P 0.01 %). Although tick sampling was not thorough, Boophilus decoloratus could be collected at 7/9 sites sampled and Boophilus microplus at 4/9 sites. Of the 20 B. decoloratus allowed to oviposit before PCR analysis, 1 (5 %) contained DNA that could be amplified with primers for B. bigemina while 12 (60 %) were positive with primers for B. bovis. Of the B. microplus allowed to oviposit, 11/16 (69 %) were positive for B. bovis DNAby PCR and 2/16 (12 %) were positive for B. bigemina.
Flystrike prevention on Merino lambs with the insect growth regulator dicyclanil
Authors: Schmid H.R. , Hyman W.B. , De Bruin C. , Van Zyl A.P. , Junquera P.
Published: August 2012

The efficacy of a ready-to-use 5 %dicyclanil pour-on formulation as a preventative of natural flystrike on Merino lambs was investigated in a field trial involving 5 sites in the southern Cape Province. A total of 1804 lambs treated with dicyclanil were compared with 882 untreated control lambs for up to 25 weeks after treatment. Efficacy was assessed by calculating the weekly cumulative strike rate at each site and aggregated for all sites, as well as by calculating the percentage reduction achieved in treated lambs. Cumulative strike rates for the untreated controls aggregated for all sites at Weeks 9, 14 and 19 after treatment reached 6.2, 12.8 and 17.8 %, respectively, compared with 0.4, 1.7 and 3.6 %for the dicyclanil treated lambs. Percentage control aggregated for all sites at Weeks 9, 14 and 19 after treatment was 93, 87 and 80 %, respectively. Heavy rains during the 1st half of the trial did not substantially reduce the efficacy of the product.