bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Echocardiographic measurements in Greyhounds, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds ‐ dogs with a similar conformation but different size
Authors: TORRE PK DELLA , KIRBY AC , CHURCH DB , MALIK R.
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the effect of body size on various echocardiographic measurements in dogs of widely differing size, but identical body conformation.

Design A randomised echocardiographic study of healthy sighthounds.

Animals 60 dogs comprising an equal number (20) of racing Greyhounds, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds.

Procedure Following sedation with acepromazine and morphine, and acclimatisation, a thorough echocardiographic examination was performed on each dog using standard methods.

Results Dimensions measured echocardiographically were highly correlated with body size. These data were subsequently examined using analyses of variance and regression. Body surface area was the best overall predictor of dimensional measurements. In comparison to previous studies using dogs of differing size and conformation, the spread of values for measurements plotted against body surface area showed substantially narrower ranges. Thus, the relationship between echocardiographic measurements and body surface area was much closer for dogs with an identical somatotype than for dogs of differing size and conformation. Commonly used ejection phase indices (fractional shortening, ejection fraction and velocity of circumferential fibre shortening) were negatively correlated with body size. In contrast, the thickening fraction of the left ventricular posterior wall, another ejection phase index, was independent of body weight and body surface area for all three breeds and when the data were pooled.

Conclusion Taken in consideration with previous work, this study demonstrates that body conformation and body size both influence canine echocardiographic measurements. Commonly used ejection phase indices are significantly affected by body size, with larger sighthounds having lower values. A more appropriate method of quantitating left ventricular function may be the determination of the thickening fraction of the left ventricular posterior wall.
Clinical findings associated with chronic ischial fracture in a gelding
Authors: BOOTH TM , CLEGG PD
Published: March 2008

An 8‐year‐old showjumper gelding was referred for examination as a result of a purchase dispute for reported back pain. Clinical examination identified back pain and atrophy of the left semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles, but no lameness. Standing pelvic radiography demonstrated a chronic nonunion fracture of the left ischium, the clinical significance of which was uncertain. The apparent back pain was thought to be probably unrelated to the pelvic lesion. We conclude that chronic ischial fracture in the horse can lead to specific atrophy of the semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles, which originate from this bone.
Transient hypoparathyroidism following successful treatment of hypercalcaemia of malignancy in a dog
Authors: HORN B. , IRWIN PJ
Published: March 2008

A 4‐year‐old, entire female, English Cocker Spaniel was presented for treatment of lymphosarcoma and secondary hypercalcaemia. After induction chemotherapy the dog became severely hypocalcaemic and showed signs of weakness, muscle fasciculation and facial pruritus. Hormone analysis confirmed inadequate production of parathyroid hormone. Although hypocalcaemia has been previously reported as a component of tumour lysis syndrome, it has not been associated with transient parathyroid hormone deficiency.
Evaluation of a laboratory test to detect resistance to closantel in Haemonchus contortus
Authors: LLOYD JB , FITZGIBBON CC , BARCHIA I.
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate a laboratory test for closantel resistance in Haemonchus contortus.

Procedure Field isolates of H contortus, known to be resistant to closantel, were tested in the assay. In addition, mixtures of closantel‐susceptible and closantel‐resistant laboratory reference strains were tested to develop a method of predicting the proportion of resistant worms in a sample from the field.

Results The assay correctly identified as resistant all of the closantel‐resistant field isolates of H contortus. It also identified one isolate with an in vivo efficacy of 98% as having emerging resistance. Testing of the mixtures of laboratory reference strains revealed that an isolate would be classified as resistant when it consists of about 25% or more resistant worms. Test samples that are not fully susceptible yet contain less than 25% resistant worms may be classified as emerging resistance.

Conclusion The in vitro migration assay is a sensitive method of detecting closantel resistance in H contortus.
Genetic screening for progressive retinal atrophy in the Australian population of Irish Setters
Authors: MAROUDAS P. , JOBLING AI , AUGUSTEYN RC
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether the rcd‐1 mutation causing progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in Irish Setters is in the Australian breeding population.

Method DNA samples were tested for the mutation using the Polymerase Chain Reaction and specific primer nucleotides to amplify the phosphodiesterase gene followed by restriction enzyme cleavage and fragment size determination.

Results No mutant alleles were found in 38 Irish Setters, representing over 80% of all major breeding stock in five Australian states.

Conclusions It is likely that the Australian population of Irish Setters is free of the rcd‐1 form of PRA.
Evaluation of brain damage resulting from penetrating and non‐penetrating captive bolt stunning using lambs
Authors: FINNIE JW , BLUMBERGS PC , MANAVIS J. , SUMMERSIDES GE , DAVIES RA
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo compare the brain damage in sheep resulting from penetrating and non‐penetrating captive bolt stunning.

DesignThe unrestrained heads of anaesthetised lambs were impacted in the temporal region with penetrating and non‐penetrating captive bolt pistols (humane stunners) using a constant charge. Two hours after head impact, brains were perfusion‐fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde. Coronal sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemically for amyloid precursor protein, a sensitive marker of axonal and neuronal reaction in brains after trauma. Pathological changes in these brains were then quantified by morphometric analysis.

ResultsThe skull was fractured in 50% of lambs after a non‐penetrating head impact and in all animals after a penetrating head wound. Impact contusions were present in 80% of lambs receiving a non‐penetrating head injury and in all of those with a penetrating wound. Total contusion area was similar in both groups. Amyloid precursor protein‐positive axons and neurons, and haemorrhage, were widely distributed in the brain after both head impact types, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Multifocal necrosis of the cerebellar granular layer was found in all lambs with non‐penetrating head injury, but in none with a penetrating injury.

ConclusionsThe structural brain damage, a mixture of focal and diffuse injury, produced by penetrating and non‐penetrating captive bolt pistols was overall similar and of sufficient severity to suggest that both types of weapon are acceptable for euthanasia.
Comparison of three serological tests and an interferon‐g assay for the diagnosis of paratuberculosis in experimentally infected sheep
Authors: GWOZDZ JM , THOMPSON KG , MURRAY A. , REICHEL MP , MANKTELOW BW , WEST DM
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo compare the diagnostic performance of a complement fixation test, an agar gel immunodiffusion test, an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and a whole‐blood interferon‐g assay for paratuberculosis in 14 sheep experimentally infected withMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosis.

Experimentaldesign Longitudinal study.

ResultsThe IFN‐g assay detected more experimentally infected sheep, and earlier, than any of the serological tests. None of the antibody assays was able to detect all sheep with histologically confirmed paratuberculosis.

ConclusionsThe superior performance of the IFN‐g assay in detecting infected sheep in this small experimental population warrants its further evaluation in a larger population of sheep naturally exposed toMaparatuberculosis.
Effects of tail amputation and treatment with an albendazole controlled‐release capsule on the health and productivity of prime lambs
Authors: WARE JK WEBB , VIZARD AL , LEAN GR
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the effects of tail amputation an treatment with albendazole controlled‐release capsule (CRC on the health and productivity of prime lambs.

Design Field trials on three farms.

Animals About 551 Coopworth‐Poll Dorset cross, 588 Bord Leicester‐Merino‐Poll Dorset cross and 575 Corriedale‐Po Dorset cross lambs.

Procedure On three farms, lambs with amputated tail were compared with an equal number of lambs with tails le entire. In both of these groups half the lambs were treate with an albendazole CRC 13 weeks after the start of lambin Faecal soiling of the breech and flystrike of the breech wer recorded. Lambs were weighed and body condition scored each visit and carcase weights and fat score of each lamb slaughter. Procedures on the slaughter chain were monitore to determine whether the retention of the tail caused an problems.

Results There were no observed benefits of treatme with an albendazole CRC on the farms in the study. Ther was no strong evidence that tail amputation had any long term effect on the growth rate of lambs or carcase traits. N detrimental effects were observed during processing of lamb with long tails in the abattoir. Lambs with entire tails ha significantly greater mean dag scores than lambs wit amputated tails. On one farm lambs with entire tails were about twice the risk of requiring crutching and on another far were at three times the risk of breech strike compared wit lambs with amputated tails.

Conclusion This study provides evidence that amputatin the tail is not an absolute requirement to maintain the healt and welfare of prime lambs, but leaving the tail of prime lamb entire is likely to increase chemical usage to control flystrik and to increase the frequency of crutching.
Pancreatic pseudocyst causing extrahepatic biliary obstruction in a dog
Authors: MARCHEVSKY AM , YOVICH JC , WYATT KM
Published: March 2008

A 3‐year‐old Rhodesian Ridgeback was examined because of recurrent pancreatitis of 2 months duration. The dog had signs of abdominal pain and jaundice. Blood biochemical findings were consistent with extrahepatic bile duct obstruction, but on abdominal ultrasonography no cause of obstruction was identified. At surgery a pancreatic pseudocyst was found in the body of the pancreas. Cystoduodenostomy, cystic omentalisation and biliary diversion resulted in excellent long‐term recovery.
Perirenal pseudocysts in 26 cats
Authors: BECK JA , BELLENGER CR , LAMB WA , CHURCHER RK , HUNT GB , NICOLL RG , MALIK R.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate clinical features, anatomical location, nature of pseudocyst fluid, results of surgical treatment and links with underlying renal disease in cats with perirenal pseudocysts.

DesignA retrospective study of 26 affected cats, including 8 treated surgically.

ResultsNineteen (73%) affected cats were male. The median age was 11 years. Most presented for abdominal enlargement and had varying degrees of renal dysfunction on presentation. Thirteen cats (50%) had bilateral pseudocysts. The pseudocyst fluid was a transudate or modified transudate in all cases. All surgically treated cats had subcapsular perirenal pseudocysts. Associated renal lesions were identified in all cats that had renal biopsies or detailed ultrasonographic examinations. Surgery relieved clinical signs but did not stop progression of renal disease. Cats survived a median of 9 months after surgery and survival was correlated statistically to degree of azotaemia at presentation. Percutaneous drainage of pseudocysts was ineffective in controlling long‐term fluid accumulation.

ConclusionsSubcapsular perirenal pseudocysts are formed in cats by accumulation of transudate between the capsule and parenchyma of the kidney as a result of underlying parenchymal disease. Pseudocyst formation can occur at variable stages of renal dysfunction. Resection of the pseudocyst wall is usually effective in eliminating signs but does not stop progression of renal disease. The prognosis for cats with pseudocyst formation is related to the degree of renal dysfunction at time of diagnosis.
Establishment, validation and use of the Kielstein‐Rapp‐Gabrielson serotyping scheme forHaemophilus parasuis
Authors: RAFIEE M. , BLACKALL PJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectivesTo produce antisera to the 15 recognised reference strains of the Kielstein‐Rapp‐Gabrielson (KRG) serotyping scheme forHaemophilus parasuis, validate those sera and use them to serotype 46 Australian field isolates ofH parasuis.

DesignAntisera were produced in rabbits and validated by cross‐testing with the reference strains and re‐testing 15 Australian field isolates ofH parasuisthat had been previously serotyped in the United States of America. The validated antisera were then used to determine the serovar of 46 Australian isolates.

ResultsMonospecific antisera were produced for 14 of the 15 KRG serovars ofH parasuis.Two Australian field isolates, confirmed previously as serovars 1 and 7, were used to produce monospecific antisera for serovars 1 and 7 respectively. The antiserum for serovar 4 gave a one‐way cross reaction with the antigen of serovar 14. The typing antisera correctly typed all 15H parasuisthat had been previously typed by antisera produced overseas. The 46 field isolates were shown to belong to serovars 2 (two isolates), 4 (one isolate), 5 (18 isolates), 12 (two isolates) and 13 (four isolates). The remaining 19 isolates were non‐typable.

ConclusionSerotyping ofH parasuisisolates is now available in Australia.H parasuisserovars 5 and 13 remain the predominant serovars present in Australian pigs.
Use of multilocus enzyme electrophoresis to distinguish clinically important strains of Staphylococcus intermedius from the skin of dogs
Authors: BARRS VR , BRISCOE D , MALIK R , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

Aims To use multilocus enzyme electrophoresis to determine the genetic structure of Staphylococcus intermedius from normal skin of dogs and those isolated from a variety of disease conditions and to distinguish clinically important strains in dogs.

Methodology The diversity amongst 129 isolates of S intermedius from the skin and mucosa of 32 healthy dogs and 120 isolates from diseased sites in 120 individual dogs was examined using multilocus enzyme electrophoresis. Associations among ETs were examined to determine the diversity of isolates.

Results Twenty two ETs were distinguished comprising 21 containing isolates from diseased sites and 11 containing isolates from normal dogs. The majority of isolates (171 of 249; 69%) were located in two ETs (ET1 and ET 4), that were not distinguishable phenotypically. ET 1 contained 94 isolates (54 isolates from healthy dogs and 40 isolates from diseased sites) and ET 4 contained 77 isolates (46 from healthy dogs and 31 isolates from diseased sites). Further, 77.5% of isolates from healthy dogs were present in ET 1 and ET 4 and 59% of isolates from diseased dogs belonged to the same two ETs. There was only a small difference in genetic diversity among isolates taken from healthy dogs (11 ETs; H =0.182) and those isolates taken from clinical specimens from diseased dogs (21 ETs; H = 0.218). Of the 21 ETs from diseased sites, ET 16 contained all six isolates from Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome in racing Greyhounds.

Conclusions The small difference in genetic diversity between isolates from the skin and mucosa of healthy dogs and isolates from various diseases, as well as the presence of the majority of isolates in two ETs, is consistent with the role of S intemedius as an opportunistic pathogen. The confinement of all Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome isolates within one ET is confirmation of this entity as a distinct disease of dogs.
Haematological and biochemical findings in cats in Australia with lymphosarcoma
Authors: GABOR LJ , CANFIELD PJ , MALIK R
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo describe, for the first time, haematological and serum biochemical findings in cases of lymphosarcoma in Australian cats.

DesignA prospective multi‐institutional study.

ProcedureOf 118 affected cats presented to the authors over a 18‐month period, 97 were evaluated haematologically and 87 biochemically. Haematological analysis usually included determination of packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, red blood cell and leukocyte counts, differential leukcocyte count, reticulocyte count and examination of buffy‐coat smears for neoplastic cells. Serum biochemical analysis was done primarily with a discrete analyser and included a panel of commonly used analytes.

ResultsNonregenerative anaemia was present in 54% (52/97) of cats. Neutrophilia, present in 65% (59/91) of cats, was commonly associated with lymphocytopaenia, eosinopaenia and monocytosis. Of the 13 cats with a secondary leukaemic manifestation, only five had distinct lymphocytosis. Serum biochemical abnormalities either were nonspecific, such as hypoglycaemia in 37% (32/87) of cats, or related to specific tissue involvement, such as hypoalbuminaemia in 76% (31/41) of cats with alimentary involvement and azotaemia in 60% (15/25) of cats with renal involvement.

ConclusionIt was shown for the first time that haematological and serum biochemical findings are of limited value in diagnosing lymphosarcoma in Australian cats, except if they are leukaemic. Although clinical pathological changes were common, they were nonspecific or related to specific tissue involvement. Their value in assessing response to therapy needs to be examined further. Patient characteristics such as age, breed and sex also had limited effect on laboratory findings and those observed were of little consequence. Additionally, histological and immunophenotypical variations in tumour type had little effect on laboratory findings.
Feline hyperthyroidism: spectrum of clinical presentions and response to carbimazole therapy
Authors: BUCKNELL DG
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the spectrum of clinical presentations of hyperthyroidism in cats and response to carbimazole therapy by analysis of historical, clinical and laboratory data.

DesignA prospective clinical study involving client‐owned cats presenting to a private veterinary practice in Australia.

ProcedureTwenty‐five cats diagnosed as hyperthyroid during a 23‐month period participated in the study with owner consent. Therapy with carbimazole was instituted and revisits were scheduled 2, 6 and 13 weeks after diagnosis. The cats were physically examined and underwent haematological and serum biochemical testing at each revisit. Owners were also asked to assess clinical signs in their cats in the periods between veterinary examinations. Cats with underlying renal disease were managed by alterations or cessation of carbimazole therapy.

ResultsA high prevalence of lethargic or inappetent cats without detectable underlying nonthyroidal illness was found. There was also a high prevalence of cats less than 10‐years‐old and cats in good body condition. Fourteen cats treated with carbimazole and monitored for 13 weeks responded favourably to therapy. Side‐effects were minor and uncommon. Cats with underlying renal disease that became apparent during the study, responded well to alterations or cessation of carbimazole therapy.

ConclusionThe trend towards more subtle clinical presentations of hyperthyroid cats reported previously continued in this study. The findings of the current study do not appear to support the traditional view of hyperthyroid cats as being old, hyperactive, hungry and thin. Carbimazole therapy was found to decrease the prevalence of almost all clinical abnormalities in 14 cats and side‐effects were minor and uncommon. This study demonstrates the usefulness of medical management of hyperthyroidism in the cat when radioiodine therapy is not possible due to renal compromise or other factors.
Surveillance for aquabirnavirus in fish hatcheries in Victoria
Authors: MULLER JD , WILKS CR , HUMPHREY JD , GRANT P
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether or not aquabirnavirus is present in Victorian fish hatcheries.

Procedure Milt and ovarian fluids were collected from brood stock at 12 hatcheries and cultured in two sensitive cell lines for the presence of viruses.

Results No cytopathic effect was detected indicating the absence of virus.

Conclusion There is no evidence of infection with aquabirnavirus or Epizootic Haematopoietic Necrosis virus in Victorian fish hatcheries
Systemic mycosis due toAspergillus deflectusin a dog
Authors: ROBINSON WF , CONNOLE MD , KING TJ , PITT JI , MOSS SM
Published: March 2008

A 4‐year‐old, entire female, German Shepherd Dog was referred with a 3‐month history of right foreleg lameness that partially responded to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory and antimicrobial therapy. The bitch lost weight, was polydipsic and had reduced exercise tolerance. On referral, the animal was in poor condition, pyrexic and exhibited moderate pain on full extension of the right shoulder. Blood, urine and joint fluid were obtained and radiographs were taken of the right shoulder and chest. The bitch was lymphopaenic, hyperfibrinogenaemic, hyperglobulinaemic, mildly azotaemic, mildly proteinuric and isosthenuric. Branching fungal hyphae were present in the urine. On radiography, the thorax contained a large ventral mediastinal mass and the humeral head had extensive areas of radiolucency. An aspirate from the right humeroscapular joint exhibited branched fungal hyphae and numerous neutrophils and macrophages. A diagnosis of disseminated mycosis was made and euthanasia was performed. At necropsy, numerous caseating granulomas were present, especially in the kidneys, adrenal glands, heart and lymph nodes. Extensive osteomyelitis involved the head of the right humerus, the sternebrae and the fifth intervertebral disc. Fungal hyphae were detected in sections of granulomas in all affected organs and a diagnosis of disseminated fungal granulomatosis was made.Aspergillus deflectuswas readily isolated from affected lymph nodes, but confirming its identity asA deflectususing standard procedures proved difficult. The identity of the fungus was finally confirmed by sequencing part of the 185 rRNA of the isolate. This is the first report in Australia of a disseminated mycosis caused byA deflectus.Previously, the involvement ofA deflectusas a cause of disseminated mycosis was limited to 5 cases from the West Coast of the USA, four of which occurred in German Shepherd Dogs.
Entrapment of the small colon through a mesocolic rent in a mare
Authors: BOOTH TM , PROUDMAN CJ , EDWARDS GB
Published: March 2008

A 6‐year‐old mare was presented for acute abdominal pain unresponsive to analgesics. Exploratory laparotomy revealed entrapment of the small colon through a 12 cm rent in the mesocolon. The incarcerated small colon was manually reduced and the rent in the mesocolon was sutured closed. The mare made excellent postoperative recovery and was discharged from the hospital 4 days later. The cause of the rent, which was chronic in appearance, is unknown.
Disease and injury among veterinarians
Authors: PHILLIPS M , JEYARETNAM J , JONES H
Published: March 2008

Objective To identify occupational causes of disease and injury in veterinarians and their staff.

Design A self‐administered questionnaire was mailed to all of the 160 registered veterinary practices in Western Australia.

Results Injuries accounted for most workers' compensation claims over a 12‐month period with 31% of respondents losing a total of 360 work days with a mean of 13.3 days whereas non‐occupational diseases such as influenza accounted for 408 work days lost. Over a 10‐year period, 71% of respondents had been injured. The major physical injuries were dog and cat bites, cat scratches, scalpel blade cuts and back injuries from lifting heavy animals. Exposure to chemicals such as flea rinses, formalin, glutaraldehyde, x‐ray developers and gaseous anaesthetics were reported to cause headache, nausea and allergies. Thirty percent of respondents did not have extractor fans for scavenging waste anaesthetic gases. The study showed high use of radiography (94%) for diagnostic purposes with 24% of respondents believing radiation exposure is a major occupational health and safety issue. Stress, drug abuse, suicide and burglary were also reported. Despite a high awareness of zoonotic diseases, there were very few reports of these.

Conclusion Injuries and other occupational hazards reported together with work days lost demonstrate a need for improving the working environment of veterinarians and their staff and the development of comprehensive health and safety programs.
Use of anticholinergics in veterinary anaesthesia
Authors: BEST P
Published: March 2008

This viewpoint examines the time‐honoured and popular use of anti‐cholinergics in veterinary anaesthesia. The disadvantages of routine use and specific indications for the use of these useful drugs are discussed.
Surgical arthrodesis of distal tarsal joints in 17 horses clinically affected with osteoarthritis
Authors: ADKINS AR , YOVICH JV , STEEL CM
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate the outcome of 17 horses that underwent surgical arthrodesis of the tarsometatarsal and distal intertarsal joints for treatment of lameness due to osteoarthritis.

Design Retrospective clinical study using client‐owned animals.

Procedure Horses with hindlimb lameness were diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the distal tarsal joints following relief of lameness after intra‐articular anaesthesia or intra‐articular corticosteroid injection. Surgery to stimulate ankylosis was performed on 27 hocks by placing 3 diverging 3.2 mm drill holes approximately 3 cm through the tarsometatarsal and distal intertarsal joints from the medial aspect of the limb. The results of surgery were assessed by postoperative examinations, telephone communication with clients and analysis of race results.

Results In 71% of horses, surgery was considered to be successful as determined by clinical examination or telephone communication with clients: six of these horses had unilateral surgery and six had bilateral surgery. This represented 85% (6/7) of horses undergoing unilateral surgery and 60% (6/10) of horses having bilateral surgery. All (8/8) racing Standardbreds and 67% (4/6) of racing Thoroughbreds were considered a success. The average time between surgery and a return to racing was 9.5 months.

Conclusions The surgical technique used here can provide resolution of lameness from osteoarthritis of distal tarsal joints with a success rate similar to other reported surgical arthrodesis techniques that are more invasive and have a greater morbidity.
Eisenmenger's complex in a Holstein‐Friesian cow
Authors: GAVAGHAN BJ , KITTLESON MD , DECOCK HEV
Published: March 2008

A 4.5‐year‐old, Holstein‐Friesian cow presented with a 1‐month history of severe exercise intolerance. Rectal examination and transrectal ultrasonography revealed a large mass in the left retroperitoneum. The heart rate was 70 to 80/min. Premature ventricular complexes and ventricular bigeminy were present on an electrocardiogram. Erythrocytosis was present and blood gas analysis revealed marked hypoxaemia. An echocardiogram demonstrated a large ventricular septal defect, a partially dextroposed aorta, and concentric hypertrophy of the right ventricular free wall. Colour flow Doppler echocardiography and a contrast echocardiographic study demonstrated a right‐to‐left shunt through the ventricular septal defect. Eisenmenger's complex was diagnosed.

The patient was euthanased. Necropsy confirmed the gross cardiac lesions indentified by echocardiography and an abscess in the apex of the left ventricle. Severe pulmonary arterial lesions were present, consistent with a marked increased in pulmonary vascular resistance.Actinomyces pyogeneswas cultured from abscesses of the retroperi‐toneum and the ventricular apex.
Megaoesophagus in adult dogs secondary to Australian tiger snake envenomation
Authors: HOPPER K , BECK C , SLOCOMBE RF
Published: March 2008

Four cases of megaoesophagus secondary to tiger snake envenomation are reported. History in all cases suggested megaoesophagus was not present prior to snake envenomation. Diagnosis of megaoesophagus was confirmed by thoracic radiography in all cases. One dog died of respiratory failure. The remaining three dogs recovered, with gradual resolution of clinical signs associated with megaoesophagus.
Focal eosinophilic proctitis with associated rectal prolapse in a pony
Authors: GIBSON KT , O'HARA AJ , HUXTABLE CR
Published: March 2008

Focal intramural nodules were palpated in the rectal wall of a 12‐year‐old pony mare presented for rectal prolapse. Eosinophilic proctitis was diagnosed by examination of fine needle aspirates and biopsy of the largest rectal nodule. After treatment with a course of corticosteroids, the rectal nodule and accompanying peripheral eosinophilia resolved. There was no recurrence of the condition during the follow‐up period of 20 months. Focal eosinophilic proctitis appeared to be an unusual cause of tenesmus and rectal prolapse in this case.
Survival of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis in amitraz cattle dip fluid
Authors: EAMENS GJ , SPENCE SA , TURNER MJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the survival time of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis i n amitraz‐based cattle dip fluid derived from an active dip site in northern New South Wales.

Procedure Following inoculation of triplicate 5 L containers with faeces (0.5 g/L) from a clinical case of bovine paratuberculosis, samples collected up to 8 weeks after inoculation were examined by conventional and radiometric culture. M a paratuberculosis colonies were enumerated on solid media.

Results and conclusions M a paratuberculosis survived in amitraz cattle dip fluid for up to 2 weeks, but not 3 weeks. Where 1% of solids in dip fluid is derived from a clinical case of paratuberculosis, dip fluid may contain viable M a paratuberculosis for at least 2 weeks. These findings have implications for the management of cattle dip sites.
Effect of gender on ownership and income in veterinary practice
Authors: HEATH TJ , NIETHE GE
Published: March 2008

Objective To estimate the effect of gender on ownership and income in veterinary practice in Australia.

Methods Questionnaire completed by private veterinary practitioners, and analysed using the SAS System for Windows 7.0.

Results More than three‐quarters (78%) of male but 36% of female private practitioners were partial or sole owners of practices. The median annual income for all male practitioners working more than 40 hours/week was $70K, but that for females was $43K. These disparities existed in both city and country practices, and in the case of income it increased with increasing time in the workforce. Male practice owners also reported higher incomes than female owners.

Conclusions Female veterinary practitioners are less likely to own practices, and more likely to earn low incomes than males. These differentials do not appear to be due to location, hours worked or years since graduation or, in the case of income, to whether they are owners or employees. The evidence points to a lower interest by women than men in the business aspects of veterinary practice.
Animal models of traumatic brain injury: a review
Authors: FINNIE JW
Published: March 2008

Objective To review the main types of animal models of traumatic brain injury (TBI), their desirable characteristics and limitations, the major structural changes in the brain modelled, and special features of paediatric TBI modelling.

Conclusion Animal models have contributed substantially to our understanding of the mechanisms of TBI in humans, but many aspects of closed head injury remain to be elucidated and effective neuroprotective agents are few. Many of the advances in the pathogenesis of human TBI also have application in veterinary medicine and there is ample opportunity for veterinarians to contribute to the selection, development and characterisation of potential animal models of neurotrauma and other disorders and ensure that animal welfare standards are maintained.
Characterisation of a novel Mannheimia sp from Australian feedlot cattle
Authors: BLACKALL PJ , ANGEN Ø , FEGAN N , BLACKALL LL , MUTTERS R , BISGAARD M
Published: March 2008

Objective To characterise eight isolates of a Gram‐negative organism obtained from the upper respiratory tract of cattle showing evidence of mild upper respiratory tract disease.

Design The isolates were compared with the five recognised species within the genus Mannheimia ‐ M haemolytica, M glucosida, M granulomatis, M ruminalis and M varigena‐ using a range of phenotypic and genotypic methods.

Results Phenotypic characterisation indicated that the isolates belonged to the trehalose‐negative [Pasteurella] haemolytica complex. This complex has recently been reorganised into five species within the new genus Mannheimia. Ribotyping performed using Hin dIII and a computerised analysis system indicated that the eight Australian isolates formed a distinct cluster that was related to, but different from, the five recognised species of Mannheimia. The 16S rRNA sequence of one isolate (BNO311) was determined and a phylogenetic analysis performed. Isolate BNO311 was distinct from the five named Mannheimia spp but did join a larger cluster consisting of rRNA cluster IV (M varigena) and the unnamed rRNA cluster V of Mannheimia. DNA:DNA hybridisation between isolate BNO311 and M haemolytica NCTC 9380T, M granulomatis P411 and Actinobacillus ligniersii NCTC 4189T all suggested similarities of approximately 30%.

Conclusions These phenotypic and genotypic characterisation studies suggest that the eight Australian isolates represent a new species of Mannheimia. Until further characterisation studies are performed, we are unwilling to propose a name for this taxon, preferring to refer to this possible new species as Bisgaard taxon 39 of cluster V of Mannheimia.
Integrating practical, regulatory and ethical strategies for enhancing farm animal welfare
Authors: MELLOR DJ , STAFFORD KJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To provide an integrated view of relationships between assessment of animal welfare. societal expectations regarding animal welfare standards, the need for regulation, and two ethical strategies for promoting animal welfare, emphasising farm animals.

Approach Ideas in relevant papers and key insights were outlined and illustrated, where appropriate, by New Zealand experience with different facets of the welfare management of farm animals.

Conclusions An animal's welfare is good when its nutritional, environmental, health, behavioural and mental needs are met. Compromise may occur in one or more of these areas and is assessed by scientifically‐informed best judgement using parameters validated by directed research and objective analysis in clinical and practical settings. There is a wide range of perceptions of what constitutes good and bad welfare in society, so that animal welfare standards cannot be left to individual preferences to determine. Rather, the promotion of animal welfare is seen as requiring central regulation, but managed in a way that allows for adjustments based on new scientific knowledge of animals' needs and changing societal perceptions of what is acceptable and unacceptable treatment of animals. Concepts of ‘minimal welfare’, representing the threshold of cruelty, and ‘acceptable welfare’, representing higher, more acceptable standards than those that merely avoid cruelty, are outlined. They are relevant to economic analyses, which deal with determinants of animal welfare standards based on financial costs and the desire of the public to feel broadly comfortable about the treatment of the animals that are used to serve their needs.5 Ethical strategies for promoting animal welfare can be divided broadly into the ‘gold standard’ approach and the ‘incremental improvement’ approach. The first defines the ideal that is to be required in a particular situation and will accept nothing less than that ideal, whereas the second aims to improve welfare in a step‐wise fashion by setting a series of achievable goals, seeing each small advance as worthwhile progress towards the same ideal. ‘Incremental improvement’ is preferred. This also has application in veterinary practice where the professional commitment to maintain good welfare standards may at times conflict with financial constraints experienced by clients.
Laryngeal rhabdomyoma in a dog
Authors: O'HARA AJ , McCONNELL M , WYATT K , HUXTABLE C
Published: March 2008

A 4‐year‐old spayed female Golden Retriever was presented for investigation of progressive loss of bark, continuous panting and increased upper respiratory noise. Examination of the larynx and pharynx under general anaesthesia identified a spherical 5 × 3 cm mass involving the right arytenoid cartilage. Cytological examination of fine needle aspirates from the mass suggested the tumour was a carcinoma, however histological examination in association with immunoperoxidase and histochemical staining identified the mass as a laryngeal rhabdomyoma.
Use of clomipramine in treatment of obsessive‐compulsive disorder, separation anxiety and noise phobia in dogs: a preliminary, clinical study
Authors: SEKSEL K , LINDEMAN MJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of a treatment protocol for obsessive‐compulsive disorder, separation anxiety and noise phobia in dogs.

DesignA study was undertaken to assess clinical responses in 24 dogs diagnosed with one or more of three behavioural disorders stated above to a treatment regimen that included clomipramine and behaviour modification.

ProcedureA detailed behavioural and clinical history was obtained for each dog. Obsessive‐compulsive disorder was diagnosed in nine cases: primary presenting complaints were tail‐chasing, shadow‐chasing, circling and chewing; one case was diagnosed with concurrent separation anxiety. Separation anxiety was diagnosed in 14 cases: presenting complaints included destruction, vocalisation and escaping in the absence of the owner; four cases also exhibited noise phobia. The study also included one dog diagnosed with noise phobia only and another with inappropriate fear responses.

Clomipramine was administered orally twice daily. The starting dose was 1 to 2 mg/kg bodyweight. The dose was increased incrementally to a maximum of 4 mg/kg if needed. A behaviour modification program was designed and the owner instructed on its implementation. Dogs continued medication for at least 1 month after clinical signs disappeared or were acceptably reduced, then withdrawal of medication was attempted by decreasing drug dosage at weekly intervals while behaviour modification continued.

ResultsThe presenting clinical sign was largely improved or disappeared in 16 dogs, 5 demonstrated slight to moderate improvement and the behaviour was unchanged in 3. Clomipramine withdrawal was attempted in nine cases: this was successful in five.

ConclusionClomipramine was effective and well‐tolerated in controlling signs of obsessive‐compulsive disorder and/or separation anxiety and/or noise phobia in 16 of 24 assessable cases, when used in combination with behaviour modification, and improvement in clinical signs was noted in 5 others.
Hypercalcaemia associated with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in a Giant Schnauzer
Authors: KLEITER M , HIRT R , KIRTZ G , DAY MJ
Published: March 2008

A 7‐year‐old male Giant Schnauzer was referred with a history of severe vomiting, lethargy, weight loss, polydipsia and polyuria. Detailed investigations revealed leucocytosis with a marked lymphocytosis, mild non‐regenerative anaemia, thrombocytopenia, hypercalcaemia and azotaemia. Circulating lymphocytes were small and well‐differentiated, and the same lymphoid population was present in bone marrow. Chronic lymphocyctic leukaemia with associated paraneoplastic hypercalcaemia was diagnosed. Immunohistochemical staining of a bone marrow biopsy revealed a neoplastic B‐cell line expressing CD79. The dog responded to therapy with prednisolone and chlorambucil for a period of 8 months.
Bovine nasal eosinophilic granuloma with blood eosinophilia caused by Nocardia species
Authors: SHIBAHARA T , MITARAI Y , ISHIKAWA Y , SATO M , KADOTA K
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe a case of nocardial nasal granuloma in a Holstein heifer.

Clinical features The heifer showed laboured respiration and occasional coughing with granulomatous excrescences on the bilateral nasal mucosa, and a marked leucocytosis with eosinophilia.

Necropsy Severe granulomatous inflammation with eosinophils, epithelioid cells, giant cells and Nocardia s p obstructed both nasal passages completely.

Conclusion This lesion resulted from chronic infection with Nocardia s p and is distinct from other forms of bovine nasal granuloma, also called atopic rhinitis or chronic granular rhinitis, which we propose should be classified as bovine allergic granular rhinitis. The most appropriate name for the present disease is bovine nasal eosinophilic granuloma.
Defaecation syncope and pulmonary thromboembolism in a cat
Authors: WHITLEY NT , STEPIEN RL
Published: March 2008

A 7‐year‐old male neutered domestic shorthair cat was referred for worsening gastrointestinal and haematologic abnormalities. Physical status deteriorated further despite intravenous crystalloids, blood transfusion and nutritional support. Cardiorespiratory signs developed and the cat died suddenly while straining to defaecate. Diffuse thrombosis, pulmonary thromboembolism, metastatic pancreatic carcinoma and histologic evidence of cardiomyopathy were present at necropsy. This is the first reported case of feline pulmonary thromboembolism associated with defaecation syncope. Predisposing factors for thrombotic disease in this case and aspects of human defaecation syncope are discussed. The risk of clot dislodgement by the Valsalva manoeuvre in patients with a thrombotic tendency is highlighted.
1,25(OH)2 vitamin D concentration in the plasma of Solanum glaucophyllum intoxicated rabbits
Authors: DALLORSO ME , GIL S. , PAWLAK E. , LEMA F. , MÁRQUEZ A.
Published: March 2008

Objective To test Solanum glaucophyllum calcinotic effects in adult New Zealand White rabbits in relation to cumulative dose and active principle concentration in plasma.

Design An intoxication assay with controls.

Procedure Rabbits were orally dosed with aqueous extracts of dry leaves of S glaucophyllum for 5, 7 or 9 days. During the experiment, body weight, calcaemia and phosphataemia were measured; retinal blood vessel calibre was observed by ophthalmoscopic examination of the ocular fundus. 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D plasma concentration was determined at the end of the experimental periods. Soft tissue calcium concentration and the presence of calcinotic lesions were studied after euthanasia.

Results Toxic effects were evident in S glaucophyllum treated groups (loss of body weight, elevation of soft tissue calcium concentration, and presence of calcinotic lesions). Plasma 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D concentrations were negatively correlated with final body weight(r = ‐0.97; P = 0.001), and positively correlated with renal calcium concentration (r = 0.74; P = 0.02). There was also a significant regression of plasma 1,25 (OH)2 vitamin D concentration on the cumulative dose of S glaucophyllum(R2= 0.87; P £ 0.001).

Conclusions The procedure described here offers a sensitive and practical experimental model for the study of the pathogenesis of enteque seco.
A neurological locomotor disorder in sheep grazing Stachys arvensis
Authors: PHILBEY AW , HAWKER AM , EVERS JV
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe the clinical signs and pathology of a neurological locomotor disorder in sheep associated with ingestion of Stachys arvensis.

Design Field observations and laboratory examinations.

Procedure Clinical and pathological examinations were performed on sheep with suspected S arvensis intoxication.

Field observations Merino sheep in a flock on the southwestern slopes of New South Wales developed a neurological disorder after grazing S arvensis. Affected animals had pelvic limb paresis and a proprioceptive deficit. When forced to exercise they stumbled and collapsed. Recovery following removal from the plant was slow. Many deaths were associated with the outbreak.

Results Affected sheep developed a mild degenerative myelopathy and peripheral neuropathy. Deficiencies of vitamins A and E were also observed in the affected flock.

Conclusion Grazing S arvensis is sometimes associated with a neurological locomotor disorder in sheep.
Cutaneous xanthomas with concurrent demodicosis and dermatophytosis in a cat
Authors: VOGELNEST LJ
Published: March 2008

Multiple cutaneous xanthomas, associated with fasting hyper‐lipidaemia, are described in a 9‐month‐old domestic longhaired cat. A severely pruritic, papular, and crusting dermatitis affecting the head and neck, initially diagnosed as lesions of the eosinophilic granuloma complex, progressively developed on the head and pinnae. Pruritus was controlled with administration of prednisolone and chlorambucil. Repeat histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous xanthoma and concurrent mild demodicosis. Marked fasting hypercho‐lesterolaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia and transient hypergly‐caemia were subsequently confirmed. Treatment for hyperlipi‐daemia and xanthomas with a low‐fat diet (Hillas Feline r/d) and the previously unreported treatment for feline demodicosis of daily oral milbemycin were commenced. Multiple pink, alopecic plaques and papules gradually regressed, however pruritus recurred if immunosuppressive treatment was reduced, and well‐demarcated areas of alopecia developed on the head, limbs and trunk, despite negative skin scrapings for demodex mites. Fungal culture of hair samples yieldedMicrosporum canis. All cutaneous lesions resolved with the addition of griseofulvin to the treatment regimen. Concurrent corneal ulceration and keratoconjunctivitis sicca ultimately resolved with treatment, including topical cyclosporin. Diabetes mellitus developed 6 months after resolution of skin lesions. No cutaneous or ocular abnormalities were present 6 months later with continued low‐fat diet and insulin administration, although transient recurrence of papules and pruritus occurred after inadvertent access to a fatty meal. An underlying primary hyperlipidaemia was suspected, causing pruritic xanthomas. This may represent the first report of concurrent cutaneous xanthomas, demodicosis and dermatophytosis in a cat.