Age Groups Of Dogs Research Articles

Spatiotemporal analysis and clinico-epidemiological study for seroprevalence of canine leptospirosis.

Leptospirosis is a worldwide re-emerging zoonotic disease. The study was conducted to estimate the Seroprevalence of canine leptospirosis in a total of 450 dogs, from a total of 97 puppies and 353 adult dogs selected for examination Sampling, started from January to December 2023 in District Kasur in the province Punjab of the country Pakistan. Leptospira IgG ELISA kit manufactured by DRG Instruments GmbH, Germany was used for the screening of canine Leptospira antibodies. Out of 450 tested dogs, 183 dogs (40.67%) were tested positive for Leptospira antibody for the screening of Leptospira antibodies. The estimated Seroprevalence of leptospirosis in various age groups of dogs, were 23.7% (23/97) and 45.3% (160/353), in puppies and adults, respectively (P < 0.05). It was found that out of the sampled dogs, a total of 35/127 (27.6%), 29/100 (29%), 73/130 (56.2%), and 46/93 (49.5%) dogs were tested seropositive for Leptospira antibodies in winter, spring, summer and fall, respectively (P < 0.05).

Arterial blood vessels of the lung of the Russian hound breed dogs in the age aspect

Such a breed of dog as the Russian Hound is the most popular breed among hounds in Russia. The average weight is 25 -35 kg, and at the withers it reaches up to 65 cm, representatives of this breed live up to 14-16 years. They are easily trained and are ideal hunting companions for hare and fox, during which they often suffer injuries in the chest cavity, and veterinarians face the difficult task of providing surgical care to such patients. Knowledge of the anatomical and topographic features of the arterial bed of the lungs is necessary when providing surgical care. During the formation of the functional activity of the body, the change in the diameter of the arterial bed is of particular interest. The purpose of the study was to study the arterial bed of the lungs of the Russian Hound breed in the age aspect, to give the arteries a morphometric characteristic. Three age groups of dogs were selected for the study: newborn puppies, puppies at the age of nine months, and mature dogs. Fine anatomical preparation, vasorentgenography, morphometry was chosen as research methods. During the study, morphometric data of such vessels as: pulmonary trunk, right and left pulmonary arteries, right and left bronchial arteries were obtained.

Age‐related changes in clinically relevant biomarkers in a Beagle model of Alzheimer’s disease.

AbstractBackgroundCanine aging is associated with cognitive decline linked to several neuropathological changes that parallel those reported in Alzheimer’s disease including deposition of amyloid‐β, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, dystrophic neurites, reduced neurogenesis, neuronal loss, activated microglia and astrogliosis. Dogs also demonstrate domain specific cognitive decline with short‐term working memory and executive function impacted early in canine aging. One contributing factor of Alzheimer’s disease is neuroinflammation, including activation of microglia and astrocytes, which are also seen in canine brain aging. Microglia bind to soluble amyloid‐β oligomers and fibrils by various receptors including toll‐like receptors (TLR2, TLR4, TLR6 and TLR8), which is postulated to be part of the neuroinflammatory process in Alzheimer’s disease. Toll like receptor activation leads to downstream production and release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines through the NFκB signaling pathway. Activated astrocytes accumulate around senile plaques and release cytokines, and other cytotoxic molecules, when exposed to amyloid‐b, further contributing to the neuroinflammatory response. The current study sought to investigate whether concentrations of the following cytokines varied by age in canine biofluids; IL‐6, TNFα, IL‐8, IL‐10, and IL‐12.MethodConcentrations of the aforementioned cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma from three age groups of dogs were evaluated in the current study. The young aged group included samples from dogs under 6 years of age. The middle age group included samples from dogs between 6 and 10 years of age. The aged or senior group included samples from dogs greater than 10 years of age.Results and ConclusionThe results of the study will be presented, and we hypothesize that age‐related changes in cytokine concentrations may be used as a potential clinically relevant biomarker for evaluating the effects of putative Alzheimer’s disease therapeutics targeting neuroinflammation, particularly when used in conjunction with neuropsychological cognitive assays.

A sequential deposition of amyloid beta oligomers, plaques and phosphorylated tau occurs throughout life in the canine retina

Aims: Cerebral amyloid burdens may be found in otherwise cognitively intact adults, often not showing worsening deficits with passing years. Alzheimer’s transgenic rodents have been widely used to investigate this phenomenon, but a spontaneous disorder in other animals, such as dogs that cohabit with humans and thus may have some shared environmental risks, may contribute and offer opportunities not possible in the smaller laboratory animals. In animals, the spontaneous disorder most comparable to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affects mature to aged dogs and is designated canine cognitive dysfunction. Motivated by AD, many studies have revealed that amyloid progressively accumulates in the canine central nervous system, including the retina. Here, we investigated whether deposits of amyloid and/or tau can be found in the canine retina of neurologically normal animals from the first year of life to the elderly. Suppose canine ocular amyloid and tau are present from early life. In that case, that raises the question of whether similar patterns of accumulation occur in man, whether as part of aging, AD, or other. Methods: This study used eye tissues from 30 dogs with a variety of ophthalmic or other orbital disorders, of which 7/30 were 1-2 years old. Tissues were subdivided into dogs of three different age groups: young (1-5 years old), middle (6-10 years old), and old (≥ 11 years old). Results: Following immunostaining of tissue sections with nanobodies against retinal Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42 oligomers, and antibodies against Aβ plaques (Aβp) and hyperphosphorylated Tau (p-Tau), our investigations revealed that accumulation of Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42 oligomers were widespread in the retina in all age groups. In contrast, Aβp were detected in the middle and old age groups but not in the young age group. Furthermore, p-Tau staining was observed in four old dogs only, while other dogs were p-Tau free. Interestingly, both Aβo and Aβp co-localized in the middle and old age groups of dogs. Moreover, diffuse granular p-Tau co-localized with intracellular Aβo in the old age group. Finally, we also observed co-localization of Aβo and Aβp in the retinal vasculature which might be similar to cerebral amyloid angiopathy associated with AD. Conclusion: As far as we know, the presence of amyloid and tau in the canine retina is hitherto unreported. If similar, early-in-life subclinical retinal deposits occur in a human cohort perhaps identified by AD genetic risk factors, following this group may offer the prospect of preclinical therapeutic intervention in imminent dementia, a strategy recognized as likely necessary to impact this burgeoning disorder.

Serum concentrations of lipids and lipoproteins and their correlations with thyroid hormones in clinically healthy German shepherd dogs: Effects of season, sex and age

Although there are many evidences regard to the relationship between serum thyroid hormones, cholesterol, triglyceride and lipoproteins in different animals, but there are limited references in dogs. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between thyroid hormones and concentrations of serum lipid and lipoprotein profiles, and also to detect relationship between the measured parameters in different season, sex and age groups of dogs in Ahvaz district, Southwest of Iran, on 2011. Blood samples were taken from the cephalic vein of 60 clinically healthy and non-pregnant native dogs in two seasons (summer and winter) and in two age groups ( 3 years). Sampling was done only once from each animal (30 dogs in every season). The serum concentrations of cholesterol, triglyceride (T.G), very low density lipoproteins (VLDL-cholesterol), low density lipoproteins (LDL-cholesterol), high density lipoproteins (HDL-cholesterol and their correlations with thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) hormones were measured in the studied dogs. The mean serum concentrations of cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol (mmol/L), T4 and T3 (µmol/L) were measured in the present survey. The above parameters were also obtained in two summer and winter seasons. Season had a significant effect on T.G, HDL, LDL and VLDL levels in the studied dogs (p 0.05). No significant differences were detected for the measured cholesterol, T3 and T4 parameters in different age, sex and season groups (p>0.05). To the best of our knowledge, there was no previous research regarding the correlation of the thyroid hormones with the serum lipids and lipoproteins in dogs in Iran. Our results showed that thyroid hormones affect T.G, HDL, LDL and VLDL levels and observed seasonal change in serum may be partly due to changes in thyroid hormones.

Diagnosis of common prostatic conditions in dogs: an update.

Prostatic diseases account for 3-10% of intact male dogs presented to veterinary surgeons. Conditions vary according to severity and frequency ranging from the most common, such as prostatic hyperplasia and cysts to the rarer conditions such as prostatic abcesses and neoplasia. Different causes of prostatic disease can often not be distinguished by evaluation of clinical signs, as these are not very distinctive and may be similar for many prostatic conditions. Understanding which additional diagnostic tools to use for each of the possible conditions is essential in making a correct diagnosis leading to the proper treatment. This article will discuss the different etiologies, age groups of dogs and the decision-making process which will help the practitioner to choose the right investigative tools, treatments and prognosis when dealing with prostatic disease.

Lead in the Blood of Dogs Living in Variously Contaminated Environment

Abstract The aim of the study was to evaluate the concentration of lead in blood of dogs from Polish urban polluted areas including the Lower Silesia Region (LSR; 102 dogs), KGHM Polish Copper Region (PCR; 102 dogs), and Upper Silesia Industrial Region (USIR; 102 dogs). Moreover, it was investigated whether age, height, gender, and weight influence blood lead concentrations in the dogs. The mean concentrations of lead in dogs from LSR, PCR, and USIR were 16.18 μg/L, 31.82 μg /L, and 32.53 μg /L, respectively. In the same age groups of dogs, the concentrations of lead were the smallest and significantly lower in LSR than those reported in PCR and USIR. Mean blood concentrations of lead demonstrated a decreasing tendency in regard to the height of the examined dogs - 30.00 μg /L (low dogs), 27.37 μg /L (medium dogs), and 25.12 μg /L (high dogs).These findings indicate that blood lead concentrations mainly depend on lead contamination of the dogs’ habitat. In all regions examined, lead concentrations significantly increased with the length of the dogs’ life. Height, weight, and gender had no significant effect on lead content.

Serosurvey for Toxoplasma gondii in dogs in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

The seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) antibodies in dogs in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, Nigeria, was determined using the Latex Aagglutination Test (LAT). Antibodies (LAT titer > 1:64) to T. gondii were found in 42 (25%) of the animals examined. Antibody titers in positive dogs ranged from 1:64 (15 dogs) to 1:2048 (3 dogs). There was a significant statistical difference (P < 0.05) between age groups of dogs, the prevalence being higher in dogs > or = 3 years (chi2 = 13.73 P = 0.0002, OR 2.80 CI95% 1.28-6.13 P = 0.008). Pure Alsatians and their crosses were less likely to be seropositive (OR cross breed 0.28 CI95% 0.13-0.61 P = 0.001, OR Alsatian 0.16 CI95% 0.04-0.58 P = 0.002). The high prevalence of T. gondii infection that we found in dogs suggests a need for a larger survey to determine the national prevalence and identify possible risk factors in different agro-climatic zones. Such a study will help in formulating nation-wide control measures for toxoplasmosis.

Endoparasite prevalence and recurrence across different age groups of dogs and cats

The apparent prevalence of endoparasite infections across different age groups was calculated from 6555 dogs and 1566 cats that had a fecal examination performed upon presentation to the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania between 1997 and 2007. Based on notations from the medical history indicating prior parasite infections, estimates of recurrence were generated for each common group of parasites, including Trichuris, Giardia, ascarids, hookworms, Cystoisospora, and tapeworms. Endoparasitism was predominantly a disease of younger animals, with peak prevalence observed almost uniformly in dogs under 6 months old, with the exception of Trichuris with its longer pre-patent period, and in cats less than 18 months old. Furthermore, nearly 50% of dogs under 6 months old with a history of parasites, were diagnosed with at least one species of parasite on subsequent fecal examination. The percentage dropped to 18.4% in animals aged 1–4 years, but again increased to 31.5% in animals over 10 years old. There was no reported recurrence of Giardia or Cystoisospora from canine or feline patients older than 1 year. The recurrence of whipworm rose steadily with age, while hookworm and roundworm recurrence peaked in patients 1–4 years old. Findings from the study emphasize the importance of follow up fecal examinations and treatments in patients diagnosed with endoparasites.

Hypertriglyceridaemic insulin‐resistant obese dog model: effects of high‐fat diet depending on age

In humans, obesity is closely associated with insulin resistance (IR) and dyslipidaemia. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of age on metabolic disturbances related to obesity in dogs (n = 25). Three age-groups of dogs (puppies, young adults and mature adults) were overfed to induce obesity, and body composition, insulin sensitivity index (I(IS)) (euglycaemic-hyperinsulinaemic glucose clamp) and plasma lipids were measured. Fat mass was similar in the three obese groups (30 +/- 1% in puppies, 34 +/- 1% in young adults and 39 +/- 1% in mature adults). In mature adults, body weight (BW) increased (+45%, p < 0.001) and I(IS) decreased (-60%, p < 0.001) over 22 weeks. In young adults, BW gain was similar but slower (60 weeks) and I(IS) decreased to a lesser extent (-49%, p < 0.001). Overfed puppies weighed 30% more (p < 0.01) than normally-fed control puppies, but there was no change in I(IS). Unlike young and mature adults, obese puppies did not exhibit significant changes in triglycerides (TG) and free fatty acid concentrations. In conclusion, as in humans, obese dogs develop IR that is associated with high TG levels; however, younger animals may be better able to balance energy needs with energy consumption.

Evaluation of a radiographic caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte on the femoral neck and its relationship to degenerative joint disease and distraction index in dogs.

To determine prevalence of a radiographic caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte (CCO) on the femoral neck in various breeds and age groups of dogs and to evaluate its contemporaneous relationship with degenerative joint disease (DJD) and distraction index (DI). Cross-sectional prevalence study. 25,968 dogs, including 3,729 German Shepherd Dogs, 4,545 Golden Retrievers, 6,277 Labrador Retrievers, and 1,191 Rottweilers. Data from the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program database were analyzed, including ventrodorsal hip-extended, compression, and distraction radiographs. The CCO and radiographic signs of DJD were considered independent events and were interpreted as either present or absent. Statistical methods were used to evaluate the CCO as a possible risk factor for DJD and assess its association with DI, as measured by use of distraction radiography. When all breeds were pooled, DJD was detected in 8.6% of dogs, and the CCO was detected in 21.6% of dogs. Among dogs with a CCO, 25.1% had radiographic evidence of DJD. Among dogs without a CCO, only 4% had DJD. Dogs with a CCO were 7.9 times as likely to have DJD as were those without a CCO. Additionally, DI, weight, and age were significant risk factors for the CCO. Results confirm the contemporaneous association between the CCO and DJD and that passive hip laxity, as measured by use of the DI, is associated with both the CCO and DJD.

Pharmacokinetic disposition and arthropathic potential of oral ofloxacin in dogs.

We examined the relation between the pharmacokinetic disposition and arthropathic potential of ofloxacin, a new quinolone antibacterial agent, using both male immature (3-month-old) and mature (18-month-old) beagles. Ofloxacin was orally administered to these dogs at 20 mg/kg once daily for 8 consecutive days, and the animals were killed 2 h after the last treatment. Serum ofloxacin concentrations were repeatedly measured on days 1 and 7 by use of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. In addition, on day 8, the drug concentrations in the joint synovial fluid and humeral and femoral condyles were measured. Clinico-pathological tests of blood and serum or histopathological examination of bone specimens were also performed. Arthropathy was macroscopically observed in the cartilage surface of all immature dogs, but not in mature dogs. There were, however, no noticeable differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between the two age groups of dogs or between single and 7-day treatments. In contrast to the occurrence of arthropathic lesions, the synovial fluid and condylar drug concentrations in immature dogs was equal to or lower than those in mature dogs, suggesting that the pharmacokinetic disposition of ofloxacin may not be essential for cartilage lesions.