Majority Of Dogs Research Articles

Results of radiological hip dysplasia monitoring in Tornjak breed

The aim of this retrospective study was to show the prevalence of hip dysplasia (HD) in the indigenous dog breed Bosnian and Herzegovinian - Croatian Shepherd Dog (Tornjak) in the period from 2001 to 2016. A total of 735 radiographs were evaluated according to the FCI protocol. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistica 13.5.0.17. (TIBCO Software Inc.) software. Significant differences between categorical variables were analysed using the Chi-square test. The median value of age of examined dogs was 18 (13.8-26.0) months, with majority of dogs (523) under 24 months. In the overall examined population 74.97% of hip radiographs were interpreted as healthy (grades A and B) and 25.03% were interpreted as dysplastic (grades C, D and E). In dogs under 24 months of age, the most common age for HD survey, 76.86 % was interpreted as healthy and 23.14% as dysplastic. Comparing the frequency of diagnosed HD according to the breeding licence during the 15 years period there was a statistically significant increase in dogs with HD grades A, B, C, D and a decrease in dogs with grade HD E restricted for further breeding (P

Impacts of tibial plateau levelling osteotomy on the tibial insertion of the medial collateral ligament of the canine stifle joint – A cadaveric study

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the potential consequences of tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) for the medial collateral ligament (MCL) tibial insertion (TI) with a particular focus on the effects of the TPLO planning technique and of the size of saw blade. Study designEighty-six stifle joints were collected from 43 canine cadavers and dissected free of soft tissue to expose the MCL. The MCL insertion sites were first identified with Chinese ink on intact stifle joints, and then marked with radio-opaque barium sulfate after removal of the MCL. Mediolateral radiographs were made of each marked stifle joint and used for TPLO digital planning. For each stifle, planning the TPLO was performed by centring the osteotomy at the intersection of the tibial plateau and the mechanical axis of the tibia in group 1, and at the top of the intercondylar tubercles in group 2. Whenever possible, two saw blade sizes were tested in each group. Measurements were taken after TPLO simulation to assess how the procedure would alter the MCL TI. ResultsIn group 1, the integrity of the MCL TI was affected by the TPLO planning in 87.2% of the cases with the small saw blade and in 59.3% of the cases with the large blade, and in group 2, in 94.2% of the cases with the small and 77.9% with the large saw blade. In group 1, the osteotomy line was located above the TI, completely severing the MCL in four cases versus in 11 cases in group 2, while severing occurred in 14/15 cases with the small saw blade. ConclusionDuring TPLO, the osteotomy line transected the MCL TI in the majority of dogs. Centring the osteotomy at the intersection of the tibial plateau and the mechanical axis of the tibia and using the largest saw size that preserves tibial tuberosity and patellar tendon insertion seems to be the best way to preserve the MCL TI as much as possible. Further research is needed to evaluate the clinical impact of MCL TI transection.

Progression of lipase activity and pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity in dogs hospitalized for acute pancreatitis and correlation with clinical features.

Lipase activity and pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (PLI) have not been compared in dogs hospitalized for acute pancreatitis (AP). To describe the progression of lipase activity and PLI, and correlations with clinicopathologic features in dogs with AP. Thirty-nine dogs with AP based on clinical signs and lipase activity >350 U/L (reference interval [RI], 24-108 U/L). Retrospective study. Lipase activity (LIPC Roche), PLI (SpecPL), and clinical signs were recorded daily. Admission (d1) data (clinical, laboratory, and ultrasound [US] findings), and clinical signs during hospitalization (d2-d3) were assessed for correlation with lipases. Median (range) duration of clinical signs before presentation was 2 days (1-7 days). Median (range) lipase activity and PLI at d1 were 1070 U/L (range, 357-1500 U/L) and 1111 μg/L (range, 292-1500 μg/L). Strong correlation between assays at d1 (rs 0.96; P < .0001; n=39), remained equally strong on d2 (rs 0.964; P < .0001; n=39), and d3 (rs 0.966; P < .0001; n=22). On d2, lipase activity and PLI were within RI in 13/39 (33%) and 18/39 (46%) of cases. Lipase activities were minimally increased (median, 124 U/L) in 5 dogs with d2 PLI <200 μg/L. On d3, 4 more dogs had normal lipase activity and PLI, and the nature and magnitude of change were always the same for both assays. Clinical signs were not associated with lipases. Only a hyperechoic mesentery, but not an US diagnosis of AP, correlated significantly with lipase activity and PLI. Lipase decreases rapidly to near or within RI within 2 days of treatment in the majority of dogs with AP. Both lipase assays yielded virtually identical results. Mesenteric echogenicity may be an early marker of AP in dogs.

Retrospective Analysis of 101 Canine Lymphoma Cases Diagnosed in Surgical biopsies in Latvia (2011–2020)

Abstract Lymphoma is a malignant tumor commonly diagnosed in dogs representing 7–24% of all canine tumors. There has been no previous studies focused on characterization of canine lymphoma cases in Latvia. The goals of this retrospective study were to determine prevalence and characteristics of lymphoma cases among biopsy submissions to a private veterinary pathology service that receives approximately 80% of all biopsy submission in Latvia and to compare this data with published canine lymphoma reviews. Data were retrieved to select records from Latvian dogs diagnosed with lymphoma between 2011 and 2020, determining characteristics of dogs and types of lymphoma based on anatomic distribution and cellular morphology. In a ten-year study period, diagnosis of lymphoma constituted 1–4% of surgical biopsy submissions each year without upwards trend. Affected dogs were middle age (median 8 years; range 2–13), with a slight male predominance (58%). The majority of dogs (19%) were mixed breed. Top 3 affected dog breeds were Rottweiler, American Staffordshire terrier and French bulldog with 6–7 cases in each breed. Multicentric form of lymphoma predominated (55%) followed by alimentary and mucocutaneous lymphoma (21% and 14%, respectively). Within multicentric form of lymphoma two thirds were intermediate to large cell lymphomas. Included in this group would be diffuse large B cell lymphomas, the most common subtype of canine lymphomas; however, lack of immunohistochemical testing precluded complete lymphoma classification according to WHO guidelines. Results of this study correlate well with the previously published results and provide important information to Latvian small animal veterinarians and pathologists.

Description and outcome of dogs with primary immune-mediated polyarthritis: 73 cases (2012-2017).

To provide a description of primary idiopathic immune-mediated polyarthritis, including long-term outcome and relapse rates, for dogs starting treatment with corticosteroids alone or corticosteroids with a second immunosuppressant. Medical records were reviewed between January 2012 and December 2017 to identify dogs diagnosed with primary immune-mediated polyarthritis. Data including signalment, clinicopathological findings, type and duration of treatment, relapse and outcome were recorded. Seventy-three dogs were included. Fifty-four dogs were started on corticosteroid monotherapy (an additional immunosuppressant was introduced later in 27/54 dogs) and 19 dogs were treated with multi-modal immunosuppression from the outset. Ninety-five percent (69/73) of dogs responded favourably to therapy although death was attributed to immune-mediated polyarthritis in 19% (14/73) of dogs. Relapse of clinical signs was reported in 53% (39/73) dogs (31/39 while on treatment), with multiple relapses observed in 17 dogs. Complete cure (permanent withdrawal of immunosuppressive medication) was achieved in 46 dogs (63%). Overall, 81% of dogs had a well-managed disease for an extended timeframe (≥1131 days). Fourteen of 19 (74%) dogs that started treatment with multi-modal immunosuppression and 32 of 54 (59%) started on corticosteroids alone achieved a complete cure. This study provides extended follow-up information for a large cohort of dogs with primary immune-mediated polyarthritis. Immunosuppressive therapy was discontinued in the majority of dogs but disease-associated mortality remains high.

Cranial thoracic myelopathies (T1-T6 vertebrae): Retrospective evaluation of the signalment, clinical presentation, and, presumptive or final diagnoses in 84 dogs.

The aim of the study was to describe the signalment, clinical presentation and presumptive or final diagnoses of dogs with cranial thoracic spinal cord lesions identified on advanced imaging. Retrospective evaluation of the databases of three veterinary specialty centres, between 2009 and 2021, was performed to identify dogs with a lesion affecting the cranial thoracic vertebral column (T1-T6 vertebrae) as the primary cause for presenting signs of myelopathy and/or spinal pain. Eighty-four dogs were included in the study, with the majority (n = 76) presenting with a progressive history of over 4-weeks' duration. On neurologic examination, most dogs were ambulatory (n = 64), and the most common neuroanatomic localisation was the T3-L3 spinal cord segments (n = 63). Twelve dogs (14%) showed a short-strided thoracic limb gait on clinical examination. The most common diagnosis was neoplasia (n = 33), followed by anomalies (n = 22, including vertebral body malformations in 14 dogs) and degenerative disorders (n = 16, with intervertebral disc protrusion diagnosed in 9 dogs). The most common vertebrae affected were T3 and T5. Most dogs with degenerative conditions showed asymmetric clinical signs, and the majority of dogs with neoplasia showed signs of spinal hyperaesthesia on examination. The findings of this study describe the clinical signs and presumptive or final diagnoses associated with lesions affecting the cranial thoracic spinal cord. When combined with the signalment and clinical history, this information can assist in both the recognition of and problem-based approach to these cases.

Risk Factors and Clinical Presentation in Dogs with Increased Serum Pancreatic Lipase Concentrations-A Descriptive Analysis.

Simple SummaryOver the past several years, there has been an increasing importance placed on clinical presentation as part of a diagnosis of pancreatitis, and yet there is comparatively little data investigating the full array of clinical signs that may be seen in dogs with pancreatitis. Our study showed that dogs with increased pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity concentrations could display a wide range of clinical signs, which may be related to pancreatitis or a concurrent disease. Non-specific clinical signs, such as anorexia, were prevalent. Additionally, overt abdominal pain was infrequently reported, and veterinarians should be cautious in ruling out pancreatitis due to a lack of abdominal pain alone. Additionally, limited data is available on potential risk factors for pancreatitis in dogs; this information could be important in the development of disease prevention strategies. In our study, the most common concurrent disease was hepatobiliary abnormalities. Additional studies are needed to determine whether this is a causative or associative relationship. Drug use reflected common prescribing practices, and anti-epileptic drug use was low despite prior studies documenting clear associations between phenobarbital and potassium bromide and drug-associated pancreatitis. Adult maintenance diets, in addition to human foods and dog treats, were commonly fed prior to the development of an increased pancreatic lipase concentration.Limited data exist regarding the full array of clinical signs seen in dogs with pancreatitis and potential risk factors for the disease. Laboratory submissions from the Gastrointestinal Laboratory at Texas A&M University were retrospectively reviewed for dogs with an increased serum pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI) concentration (≥400 µg/L), and an internet-based survey was distributed to the attending veterinarian and/or technician on each case. The survey contained questions related to (i) clinical signs, (ii) prior gastrointestinal upset, (iii) comorbidities, (iv) pre-existing medical therapies, and (v) dietary history. One hundred and seventy (170) survey responses were recorded. The top three clinical signs reported were inappetence (62%), diarrhea (53%), and vomiting (49%). Abdominal pain was noted in only 32% of dogs, likely associated with poor pain detection. Additionally, the majority of dogs (71%) had prior episodes of gastrointestinal upset within the past 12 months, lending support for the commonality of recurrent acute pancreatitis, or acute on chronic disease. Hepatobiliary abnormalities (24%) were the most common concurrent disease, and endocrine disorders were seen in a low proportion of respondents (5–8%). Adult maintenance diets (65%), dog treats (40%), and human foods (29%) were commonly consumed by dogs prior to the discovery of increased cPLI concentration.

Use of Cognitive Testing, Questionnaires, and Plasma Biomarkers to Quantify Cognitive Impairment in an Aging Pet Dog Population.

Aging dogs may suffer from canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS), a condition in which cognitive decline is associated with amyloid pathology and cortical atrophy. Presumptive diagnosis is made through physical examination, exclusion of systemic/metabolic conditions, and completion of screening questionnaires by owners. This study aimed to determine whether cognitive function could be quantified in aging pet dogs, and to correlate cognitive testing with validated questionnaires and plasma neurofilament light chain (pNfL) concentration. Thirty-nine dogs from fifteen breeds were recruited (9.3 to 15.3 years). Owners completed the Canine Dementia Scale (CADES) and Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating scale (CCDR). Executive control and social cues were tested, and pNfL was measured with single molecule array assay. Comparisons were made between cognitive testing scores, CADES, CCDR scores, and pNfL. CADES scoring classified five dogs as severe CCDS, six as moderate, ten as mild, and eighteen as normal. CCDR identified seven dogs at risk of CCDS and thirty-two as normal. Cognitive testing was possible in the majority of dogs, although severely affected dogs were unable to learn tasks. CADES score correlated with sustained attention duration (r = -0.47, p = 0.002), inhibitory control (r = -0.51, p = 0.002), detour (r = -0.43, p = 0.001), and pNfL (r = 0.41, p = 0.025). Concentration of pNfL correlated with inhibitory control (r = -0.7, p≤0.001). The CCDR scale correlated with performance on inhibitory control (r = -0.46, p = 0.005). Our findings suggest that a multi-dimensional approach using a combination of questionnaires, specific cognitive tests, and pNfL concentration can be used to quantify cognitive decline in aging pet dogs.

Retrospective Evaluation of Clinical Bleeding in Dogs With Anticoagulant Rodenticide Toxicity—A Multi-Center Evaluation of 62 Cases (2010–2020)

ObjectiveTo evaluate the most common locations of hemorrhage in dogs diagnosed with anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication.AnimalsDogs presenting with hemorrhage secondary to anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication between at two university veterinary teaching hospitals.ProceduresMedical records were searched from the years 2010 through 2020 and all records from dogs treated for hemorrhage secondary to anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication were reviewed. Dogs were diagnosed with anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication based on the combination of known exposure and prolonged coagulation testing, including prothrombin and activated thromboplastin time, or based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS). The diagnosis of hemorrhage was made based on physical exam findings, point-of-care ultrasound findings or radiography.ResultsSixty-two dogs met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. The most common sites of hemorrhage included: pleural space (hemothorax 37%), pulmonary parenchyma (24%), abdomen (24%), skin/subcutaneous (21%), gastrointestinal tract (18%), pericardium (13%), oral cavity (13%), nasal cavity (11%), ocular (8%), and urinary tract (7%). Overall, forty-five dogs (73%) had evidence of cutaneous or mucosal hemorrhage while thirty-three (53%) of dogs had evidence of cavitary hemorrhage. Forty-five percent of dogs had hemorrhage noted at only one site, while 55% experienced hemorrhage at more than one site. The location of hemorrhage and total number of hemorrhagic sites was not associated with survival or transfusion requirement.Conclusions and Clinical RelevanceIn conclusion, this study highlights that dogs with anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication present with diverse locations of hemorrhage and the majority of dogs had non-cavitary hemorrhage noted.

A Descriptive Study on the Extent of Dietary Information Obtained during Consultations at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Simple SummaryThe majority of dogs with chronic idiopathic gastrointestinal (GI) disease are diet-responsive. We retrospectively evaluated what dietary information was gained when dogs were presented with chronic GI signs to either our Gastroenterology (GE) (n = 243) or Internal Medicine (IM) (n = 239) Service between 10/2017 and 01/2020. Referral documents mentioned the previously fed diet in 53/131 (40%) GE and 14/112 (13%) IM referrals. No dog had received more than one diet trial from the referring veterinarian. Diet trials had been performed in 127/199 (64%) GE and 56/156 (36%) IM dogs prior to presenting to our teaching hospital. The diet fed at the time of consultation could be named by 106/199 (53%) GE and 40/156 (26%) IM dog owners. Data on response to subsequent newly prescribed diets were available from 86 GE dogs and 88 IM dogs. A positive response to diet was noted in 50/86 (58%) GE and 26/88 (30%) IM dogs. A further 23/35 (66%) GE dogs and 12/21 (57%) IM dogs responded positively to a second diet trial, and 4/9 GE dogs (44%) and 6/7 (86%) IM dogs responded positively to a third diet trial. In conclusion, obtainable dietary information was infrequent. Positive response is still possible after initial diet failures. Further studies are now needed to determine if collecting complete dietary information at the time of consultations could lead to an increased percentage of diet-responsive disease.The majority of dogs with chronic idiopathic gastrointestinal (GI) disease respond to diet. So far, no study has assessed how much dietary information is obtained during consultations. We retrospectively evaluated what dietary information was available from dogs presenting to our Gastroenterology (GE), and Internal Medicine (IM) Service between 10/2017 and 01/2020. Data from 243 dogs presenting for first GE consultations were compared to 239 dogs presenting with chronic GI signs for first IM consultations. Referrals comprised 131 (54%) GE dogs and 112 (47%) IM dogs. Referral documents specified the previously fed diet in 53/131 (40%) GE and 14/112 (13%) IM dogs. No dog had received more than one previous diet trial for chronic GI signs. Irrespective of referral status, diet trials had been performed in 127/199 (64%) GE, and 56/156 (36%) IM dogs. The specific diet fed at the time of consultation could only be named by 106/199 (53%) GE and 40/156 (26%) IM dog owners. Data on response to subsequent newly prescribed diets were available from 86 GE dogs and 88 IM dogs. A positive response to diet was noted in 50/86 (58%) GE and 26/88 (30%) IM dogs. A further 23/35 (66%) GE dogs and 12/21 (57%) IM dogs responded positively to a second diet trial, and 4/9 GE dogs (44%) and 6/7 (86%) IM dogs responded positively to a third diet trial. In conclusion, overall dietary information gained from referring veterinarians and owners was often incomplete. More dietary information could be gained during GE consultations compared to IM consultations for chronic GI signs. A positive response to diet can still be seen after two diet failures. Further studies will help to ascertain if the percentage of diet-responsive GI disease increases when more complete dietary information is obtained at the time of consultations.

Bark to the future: The welfare of domestic dogs during interaction with a positively reinforcing artificial agent

Domestic pet dogs typically spend a large amount of time inside the home environment, including hours alone. An audio/food dispensing automated device (an artificial agent, hereafter agent) was evaluated for enrichment potential. The agent issued owner-spoken verbal cues to dogs, and food rewards for correct behavioural responses. The dogs’ welfare during interaction was examined using Qualitative Behavioural Assessment (QBA), and results were compared with quantitative behavioural measurements. QBA is a ‘whole animal’ measure, which describes and quantifies the emotionally expressive quality of an animal’s demeanour in a specific context, using descriptive terms such as ‘excited’ or ‘curious’. Adult pet domestic dogs (n = 17) were observed in two experimental conditions: 1) Agent; researcher and owner present (A+RO); 2) Agent; researcher and owner absent (A-RO). The agent was remotely triggered to call each dog by name and issue up to four repeated, randomised and previously trained verbal cues e.g., ‘spin’, ‘roll’, ‘sit’, ‘up’ (maximum 16 cues). In a baseline condition (Owner; researcher and agent present) (O+RA) the dog’s owner replaced the agent’s role. QBA using a fixed list of 20 descriptors was performed by three observers for each dog in each condition, using video recordings (51 clips) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) applied. QBA principal component 1 (PC1) was the same in all conditions, characterising dogs as ranging from ‘attentive/interested/anticipating’ to ‘conflicted/apathetic’, with the majority of dogs at the former end. QBA PC2 revealed variability in dogs’ interactive styles, ranging from ‘calm/concentrating’ to ‘aroused/excited/persistent’ in agent conditions, and ‘calm/wary’ to ‘excited/aroused’ in baseline. Inter-observer agreement was high on all PCs (e.g., PC1 A+RO Kendall’s W = 0.88; PC1 A-RO W = 0.83; PC1 O+RA W = 0.77). Quantitative continuous behaviour sampling revealed no significant differences in state behaviour between conditions; ‘looking up’ (p = 0.494); ‘ears up’ (p = 0.662); ‘cued response behaviour’ (p = 0.630); these behaviour categories correlated significantly with QBA PC1 in each condition (average r = 0.800; r = 0.780; r = 0.793 respectively).Indicators of positive anticipation, sustained engagement, competence, and motivation were identified throughout testing and in all conditions. These findings suggest that positively reinforcing interactions with an agent or an owner are equally rewarding for dogs within the context of testing. This study is the first to assess welfare during interaction with an automated device and, using a novel application of QBA, suggests the overarching experience is pleasurable for dogs.

Orthosis in the Conservative Treatment of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs – Clinical Observations

Abstract Orthoses are increasingly frequently applied orthopedic devices in veterinary medicine. Injury to the knee joint with a rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament is one of the main indications for the use of orthoses in dogs. This study aimed to present the results of treatment of 30 dogs with injured cranial cruciate ligaments using a knee orthosis and describe the reasons for the conservative treatment of cranial cruciate ligament deficiency. The study was conducted between 2017 and 2019 and involved 30 dogs of various breeds aged 7 to 15, weighing from 2.5 kg to 45 kg, diagnosed with cranial cruciate ligament rupture. In the study, a stifle knee orthosis by the Polish manufacturer Admirał (Pl) was used in 29 dogs and, in one case, an orthosis by Balto (USA) was applied. In each case, the orthosis was selected individually, based on the measurements taken. In the twelfth week of treatment using orthoses, the owners of 25 dogs were satisfied with the results of conservative treatment with the application of orthoses. The caretakers of four dogs observed difficulties in the form of slight lameness at rest after prolonged exertion on the previous day. Running difficulty was observed in one dog. In the conducted study, the knee orthosis demonstrated good therapeutic effects in dogs up to 25 kg. In the majority of dogs, a slight increase in the flexion angle of the treated knee joints was observed, X-ray examinations did not show the degenerative disease progress during the studied period.

Do socioeconomic factors impact management of suspected canine multicentric lymphoma in UK first opinion practice?

This study aimed to describe the management of cases of suspected and confirmed canine multicentric lymphoma (ML) in first opinion practice (FOP) and investigate whether socioeconomic factors are associated with initial management. Clinical narratives from electronic health records collected by the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (SAVSNET) were searched to identify dogs with peripheral lymphadenomegaly in which ML was the major differential. Cases were grouped as either ML confirmed (ML-C) or ML suspected but not confirmed (ML-S). Associations between initial management and socioeconomic factors were assessed via multivariable logistic regression. Two hundred and sixty-four cases with ML-C and 410 with ML-S were identified. There was an increased probability that owners of ML-C cases resided in less deprived areas. Moreover, a diagnosis was made more commonly in insured dogs. Only insured pets were more likely to be treated with chemotherapy following diagnosis. The majority of dogs in both groups were treated with corticosteroids alone (ML-S, n=256/410; ML-C, n=123/264). A small minority were referred (n=30/674). Socioeconomic inequalities appear to be associated with the diagnosis and management of dogs with suspected or confirmed ML in FOP. Most dogs with suspected multicentric lymphoma (in the UK) are managed in FOP (n=644/674). Consequently, expanding the knowledge base relevant to this setting offers an opportunity to improve the management of canine lymphoma.

Owned and free-roaming dogs in the North West of Tunisia: estimation, characteristics and application for the control of dog rabies

Understanding the structure of dog population and the evaluation of the accessibility of dogs to vaccination is essential to succeed in the fight against dog rabies and to adapt the strategy of its control. We studied the characteristics of the unowned and owned dogs using the beck method during a rabies vaccination campaign in randomly selected sectors (urban and rural sites) in the North West of Tunisia. During a door-to-door investigation of households, data on owned dogs were collected to describe the owned population dog. A photographic-recapture method was used to characterize and estimate the size of the unowned dogs. A total of 1432 households accounting for 5403 inhabitants were interviewed during the survey (1298 (90.6%) in the urban site and 134 (9.3%) in the rural site). The dog-owning households were significantly higher in the rural site (76.1% (102/134)) compared to the urban site (17.8% (231/1298)) (P < 0.000000). Of the 17.8% dog-owning households in urban site, 58.4% owned one dog and 9% between 4 and 8 dogs. While, of the 76.1% dog-owning households in rural site, 24.5% owned one dog and 32.3% owned between 4 and 10 dogs. The dog: human ratio was 1:11 in the urban site and 1:1.6 in the rural site. The dog population density was estimated at 16 dogs/km2 and 4 dogs/km2 in the urban and rural sites, respectively. The confinement practices varied significantly among the urban and rural sites (P < 0.000000). The percentage of free-roaming owned dogs was 51.1% in the rural site and 31.4% in the urban site. More than 60.0% of the owned dogs in the urban site were confined. The majority of dogs in the rural site were born in the house, although, a high percentage (56.7%) of owned dogs in the urban site was adopted from neighbours, others sectors, or countries. The vaccination coverage findings indicated that 77.8% and 84.2% of the owned dog were vaccinated in the urban and rural sites, respectively. The estimated size of the free-roaming dogs was 72 dogs in the urban site (Kalaat Senan) and 16 dogs in the rural site (Sod el Khir).

A follow-up study of exercise test results and severity of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome signs in brachycephalic dogs

AbstractTo promote successful breeding against brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), it is important to assess how BOAS signs progress during young adulthood and how evaluation age and ageing affect the results of chosen breeding selection tools. The aims of this study were to assess how veterinary-assessed and owner-reported BOAS signs and exercise test results change when dogs age. Eight English Bulldogs, 25 French Bulldogs, and 31 Pugs that had undergone previous evaluation were re-examined 2— 3 years later. An owner questionnaire regarding BOAS signs, a veterinary assessment of BOAS severity, and exercise, ie walk tests were re-performed. In Pugs, both 6-min walking distance and 1,000-m time worsened and the initial evaluation age had a significant effect on the 1,000-m time. No significant changes were seen in the results of the French Bulldogs but a negative effect on the 1,000-m time was seen with weight gain. Exercise test statistics were not performed with regard to English Bulldogs due to low sample size. The veterinary-assessed BOAS severity class remained the same in the majority of dogs and the BOAS grade worsened mostly in those dogs that were initially evaluated at less than two years of age. Most owners reported no major changes in BOAS severity. BOAS grading and walk tests were easy to repeat and results remained relatively constant in dogs initially evaluated at over two years of age, supporting the use of these breeding selection tools. However, further, large-scale offspring studies are still needed.

Posaconazole treatment of refractory coccidioidomycosis in dogs.

BackgroundThe majority of dogs with coccidioidomycosis recover with administration of fluconazole or itraconazole, although some cases are refractory or the dogs do not tolerate administration of these medications.ObjectivesThe objective was to describe the treatment outcomes and therapeutic monitoring of 8 dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis treated with posaconazole.AnimalsEight dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis.MethodsRetrospective case series. Medical records from Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson were searched to identify dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis that were treated with posaconazole. Clinical information and the results of monitoring trough serum posaconazole concentrations were retrieved.ResultsEight dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis were treated with 2.5 to 10 mg/kg per day of posaconazole. Six of 8 dogs recovered or developed clinical remission while administered posaconazole. Thirteen serum concentrations from 8 dogs tested were >1 μg/mL (range, 1.52 to >6 μg/mL) and the drug was well‐tolerated by 7 dogs. One dog required dosage reductions and treatment was ultimately discontinued because of hepatotoxicosis.Conclusions and Clinical ImportancePosaconazole should be considered as a treatment option for dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis. Monitoring of indicators of liver function or injury along with therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended to tailor dosage in the event of hepatic toxicosis.

Repair of Fractures of the Lateral Aspect of the Humeral Condyle in Skeletally Mature Dogs with Locking and Non-Locking Plates

The aim of this study was to report the functional outcome and complications following transcondylar screw and epicondylar plate fixation of skeletally mature dogs with fractures of the lateral aspect of the humeral condyle using a string of pearls, limited contact dynamic compression plate (LC-DCP) or locking compression plate (LCP). This study was a retrospective review of clinical records, radiographic images and canine brief pain inventory evaluation with a supplementary non-validated questionnaire. Thirty-one fractures in 29 dogs were included. The majority of dogs were Spaniels (23/29). Thirty fractures had evidence of humeral intracondylar fissure. Sixteen fractures had string of pearls, eight LCP and seven LC-DCP. There were two minor complications and three major complications. Perioperative (median: 6 weeks, range: 6-12) outcome was considered fully functional for 24 fractures and acceptable for 6 fractures. One dog had an unacceptable outcome due to the failure of an LCP that healed following revision surgery. Fractures with radiographic follow-up had a persistent visible intracondylar fracture line in 20/26. Twenty-six of twenty-seven owners perceived an excellent outcome (median: 135 weeks, range: 25-246). Repair of fractures of the lateral aspect of the humeral condyle with a transcondylar screw and epicondylar plate has a good perioperative, mid- and long-term outcome with 10% major complication rate, despite incomplete or non-union of the intracondylar fracture in 20/26 elbows.

Association of neurologic signs with high-field MRI findings in 100 dogs with osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy.

Although osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (OA-CSM) findings have been well described using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), there are no large-scale published studies on the associations between dog size, age, high-field MRI and neurologic findings. Using a retrospective, observational study design, we aimed to investigate an association between neurologic and high-field MRI characteristics in OA-CSM. Records were reviewed for dogs diagnosed with OA-CSM using high-field MRI. One-hundred dogs were included: 73/100 (73%) were giant breeds, 27/100 (27%) large breeds. Mean and median ages were, respectively, 3.1 and 2 years (0.3-9.75 years), with 2.6 and 2 years for giant-breed; and 4.4 and 4 years for large-breed dogs. The majority of dogs were male (75%) with chronic presentation (89%), more than one site of spinal cord compression (78%) and foraminal stenosis (91%). Dogs with multiples sites of spinal cord compression were more likely to have severe spinal cord compression (p<0.001), severe foraminal stenosis (p<0.001) and ligamentum flavum/soft tissue proliferation (p=0.03) than those with a single compressive site. There was a weak correlation between neurologic grade and severity of spinal cord compression (r=0.27; p=0.007), number of affected sites (r=0.24; p=0.0183) and spinal cord T2W hyperintensity (r=0.24; p=0.0152). Intervertebral disc degeneration was seen in 80% of dogs. Age did not appear to have a prominent role in the manifestation of OA-CSM. This study showed that OA-CSM affects a sizeable proportion of young large-breed, in addition to giant-breed dogs.

Owned and Free-Roaming Dogs in the North West of Tunisia: Estimation, Characteristics and Application for the Control of Dog Rabies

Understanding the structure of dog population and the evaluation of accessibility of dogs to vaccination is essential to succeed the fight against dog rabies and to adapt the strategy of its control. We studied the characteristics of the unowned and owned dogs using the marking method during a rabies vaccination campaign in a randomly selected sectors (urban and rural sites) in the north west of Tunisia. During a door-to-door vaccination campaign data on owned dogs were collected to describe the owned population dog. A photographic-recapture method was used to characterize and to estimate the size of the unowned dogs. A total of 1432 households accounting 5403 inhabitants was interviewed during the survey (1298 (90.6%) in the urban site and 134 (9.3%) in the rural site). The dog-owning households were significantly higher in the rural site (76.1% (102/134)) compared to the urban site (17.7% (231/1298)) (P<0.000000). Of the 17.7% dog-owning households in urban site, 58.4% owned one dog and 9% between 4 and 8 dogs. While, of the 76.1% dog-owning households in rural site, 24.5% owned one dogs and 32.3% owned between 4 and 10 dogs. The dog: human ratio was 1:11 in the urban site and 1:1.6 in the rural site. The dog population density was high in the urban site (16 dogs/km2) compared to the rural site (4 dogs/km2). The confinement practices varied significantly among the urban and the rural sites (P<0.000000). The percentage of free-roaming owned dogs was higher in the rural site (51.1%) compared to the urban site (31.4%). The majority of owned dogs in the urban site were confined (66.6%). The majority of dogs in the rural sites were born in the house, although, a high percentage (56.7%) of owned dogs in the urban site were adopted from neighbours, others sectors or countries. The vaccination coverage findings indicated that 77.8% and 84.2% of the owned dog were vaccinated in the urban and rural sites, respectively. The estimated size of the free-roaming dogs was 72 dogs in the urban site (Kalaat Senan) and 16 dogs in the rural site (Sod el Khir).

Intraspecific and Interspecific Attachment between Cohabitant Dogs and Human Caregivers.

In recent years there has been growing interest in uncovering evolutionary and lifetime factors that may contribute to the domestic dog's (Canis lupus familiaris) success in anthropogenic environments. The readiness with which dogs form social attachments, their hyper-social focus, and social flexibility have all been areas of investigation. Prior research has demonstrated that many pet dogs form infant-caregiver type attachments toward human caretakers, even into adulthood. However, it is unknown if adult dogs form similar attachment bonds to other species, including cohabitant dogs, or if the dog-human relationship is unique in this respect. In the current study we used the Secure Base Test to evaluate behavioral indicators of stress reduction, proximity seeking and exploration, classifying dog-human and dog-dog dyads into attachment style categories. As in prior studies, we found that the majority of our dog-human dyads met the traditional criteria for infant-caregiver type attachment. However, the majority of dogs did not display this form of attachment toward cohabitant dog partners. Instead, behaviors observed in dog-dog relationships better matched attachment classifications described in human sibling attachment research. Overall, companion dogs were significantly less likely than human caretakers to elicit behaviors associated with attachment security in a focal dog. Dog-human attachment may play a distinct and important role in the success and resilience of adult dogs living in at least some anthropogenic environments. Bonds formed with other adult dogs, while important, likely serve a different function.