The 50 most-cited articles in Veterinary Record, 2021

BACKGROUND: Domestic pets can contract severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection; however, it is unknown whether the UK B.1.1.7 variant can more easily infect certain animal species or increase the possibility of human-to-animal transmission. METHODS: This is a descriptive case series reporting SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 variant infections in a group of dogs and cats with suspected myocarditis. RESULTS: The study describes the infection of domestic cats and dogs by the B.1.1.7 variant. Two cats and one dog were positive to SARS-CoV-2 PCR on rectal swab, and two cats and one dog were found to have SARS-CoV-2 antibodies 2-6 weeks after they developed signs of cardiac disease. Many owners of these pets had developed respiratory symptoms 3-6 weeks before their pets became ill and had also tested positive for COVID-19. Interestingly, all these pets were referred for acute onset of cardiac disease, including severe myocardial disorders of suspected inflammatory origin but without primary respiratory signs. CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate, for the first time,…

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to find evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in UK cats. DESIGN: Tissue samples were tested for SARS-CoV-2 antigen using immunofluorescence and for viral RNA by in situ hybridisation. A set of 387 oropharyngeal swabs that had been submitted for routine respiratory pathogen testing was tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA using reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR. RESULTS: Lung tissue collected post-mortem from cat 1 tested positive for both SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen and RNA. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in an oropharyngeal swab collected from cat 2 that presented with rhinitis and conjunctivitis. High throughput sequencing of the viral genome revealed five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) compared to the nearest UK human SARS-CoV-2 sequence, and this human virus contained eight SNPs compared to the original Wuhan-Hu-1 reference sequence. An analysis of the viral genome of cat 2 together with nine other feline-derived SARS-CoV-2 sequences from around the world revealed no shared cat-specific mutations. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that…

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is an established condition in cats that shares many similarities with human Alzheimer's disease (AD), where cognitive decline ultimately results in dementia. Cats with CDS display behavioural abnormalities, including excessive Vocalisation, altered Interaction with owners (increased affection/attention), altered Sleep-wake cycles, House-soiling, Disorientation (spatial and/or temporal), alterations in Activity, Anxiety, and/or Learning/memory deficits (i.e., VISHDAAL). These cats develop neuropathologies, such as accumulation of β-amyloid and hyperphosphorylated tau deposits. Because of its similarities to those in the brains of people with cognitive impairment and AD, the domestic cat could be a natural model for human dementia studies. It is important to diagnose CDS promptly in cats, ruling out other causes for these behavioural changes, to provide effective management. Interventions include environmental enrichment (e.g., easy access to key resources, calming pheromones), dietary supplementations (e.g., Senilife, Aktivait for cats, SAMe),…

INTRODUCTION: Haemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a malignant neoplasm of dogs and cats that is suspected to originate from a pluripotent bone marrow progenitor with a complex and multifactorial pathogenesis. APPROACH: Pertinent literature was identified, reviewed, and summarized for inclusion in the manuscript. RESULTS/INTERPRETATION: Dogs are more frequently diagnosed with HSA than cats, and primary sites of this disease include dermal, subcutaneous/intramuscular, and visceral (most commonly the spleen). Dogs and cats with HSA generally have a poor prognosis owing to the rapid and widespread metastasis typically associated with this disease. However, some forms such as cutaneous HSA behave in a less aggressive fashion with improved outcomes. Surgical excision and anthracycline-based chemotherapy remain the mainstays of treatment, although novel treatment modalities are currently under investigation for potential roles in treatment of this disease. CONCLUSION: This review aims to describe the clinical presentation and progression of the various forms of HSA in dogs and cats as well as to…

BACKGROUND: Veterinarians have an important role in society and having an adequate veterinary workforce is important not only for their communities but also nationwide. Lately, there have been anecdotal reports regarding veterinary practices struggling to find clinicians as well as evidence of mental ill-health in veterinarians. Furthermore, the Australian Veterinary Association annual workforce survey shows an increased percentage of veterinarians intending to leave practice from 2017 to 2019. Although many factors for attrition have been described in other professions, reasons for veterinarians to leave practice are not well understood. METHODS: This study investigated why veterinary clinicians leave clinical practice by using Thematic Analysis to analyse 26 semi-structured interviews of former veterinary clinicians in relation to their work experiences and reasons for leaving. Interviews were done from February-April 2018 either face to face, via teleconferencing, or telephone. Participants were recruited from each Australian state except for New South Wales. RESULTS: The results…

BACKGROUND: The increasing emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria, causing urinary tract infections (UTI) in dogs and cats, represents a great therapeutic challenge and a public health concern. METHODS: Laboratory records of 4943 urinary microbiological diagnosis results and antimicrobial resistance profiles of suspected UTI cases in dogs and cats were analysed from 2016 to 2018 in Spain. RESULTS: This study showed a higher percentage of positive microbiological diagnoses in dogs (42%, 1368/3270) than in cats (27%, 457/1673). Although Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated bacterium, the frequency of antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli isolates was lower compared to other bacterial species like Enterococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter (E. cloacae), and Proteus mirabilis. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Gram-positive cocci showed higher levels of resistance in cats to common beta-lactams used for the treatment of complicated UTIs, as well as to fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, and carbapenems.…

Members of Veterinary Humanities UK argue that the vet professions should move away from using the term 'gold standard care' and instead adopt 'contextualised care', which acknowledges that different treatment pathways are able to offer equally acceptable patient journeys in different contexts.

BACKGROUND: Storm phobia in companion dogs is a common disorder that significantly impacts dogs' welfare. Gabapentin, the action of which is only partially understood, is widely used for its antiepileptic and analgesic properties. Only recently, the veterinary community began to use gabapentin to address phobia and anxiety in dogs. This study tested gabapentin to lower fear responses of dogs during a thunderstorm event. METHODS: Eighteen dogs suffering from storm phobia completed our double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial. Each dog's behaviour was evaluated twice by his owner: once under placebo, once under gabapentin. The treatment was orally administered at least 90 min before the exposure. Gabapentin was given at a dose ranging from 25 to 30 mg/kg. RESULTS: Our results indicate a significant reduction of the fear responses of dogs under gabapentin. The adverse effects were rare, and the most frequent amongst them was ataxia. CONCLUSION: In this trial, gabapentin appears to be an efficient and safe molecule that should be considered as part of the treatment plan of storm…

BACKGROUND: Precise reference intervals of adrenal gland thickness are required for detection of adrenomegaly in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism (HAC). METHODS: Eighty-six clinically healthy dogs were prospectively included, and 91 dogs with untreated HAC were retrospectively evaluated. Dorso-ventral adrenal gland thickness was ultrasonographically measured on the sagittal plane. Dogs were classified into four body weight categories, and those with HAC were also ultrasonographically classified as consistent with pituitary-dependent HAC (PDH), adrenal-dependent HAC (FAT), equivocal adrenal asymmetry (EAA), or normal adrenal thickness. RESULTS: The upper limits for left adrenal gland in clinically healthy dogs were 5.1 mm (≥2.5-5 kg), 5.5 mm (>5-10 kg), 6.4 mm (>10-20 kg), and 7.3 mm (>20-40 kg), and for right adrenal gland the upper limits were 5.3 mm (≥2.5-5 kg), 6.8 mm (>5-10 kg), 7.5 mm (>10-20 kg), and 8.7 mm (>20-40 kg). The sensitivity of ultrasound to detect adrenomegaly in dogs with HAC was 95.6%. Most dogs with HAC (56.0%) had ultrasound findings consistent with either PDH or…

BACKGROUND: In the British Isles, it is generally accepted that the Eurasian badger (Meles meles) plays a role in the maintenance of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in cattle. Non-selective culling is the main intervention method deployed in controlling bTB in badgers along with smaller scale Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination areas. This paper describes the use of selective badger culling combined with vaccination in a research intervention trial. METHODS: area was subjected to a test and vaccinate or remove (TVR) badger intervention over a 5-year period. Badgers were individually identified and tested on an annual basis. Physical characteristics and clinical samples were obtained from each unique badger capture event. RESULTS: A total of 824 badgers were trapped with 1520 capture/sampling events. There were no cage-related injuries to the majority of badgers (97%). A low level of badger removal was required (4.1%-16.4% annually), while 1412 BCG vaccinations were administered. A statistically significant downward trend in the proportion of test positive badgers was observed.…

BACKGROUND: Surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an essential component of any strategy to mitigate AMR and needs regular evaluation to ensure its effectiveness. A first step for any evaluation is to describe the system and context. In this study, we aimed to characterise and map the surveillance system for AMR and antimicrobial use (AMU) in the United Kingdom (UK) using a One Health (OH) approach and to identify integration points in the system. METHODS: To describe the surveillance system for AMR/AMU, international guidelines for establishing surveillance systems for AMR and AMU were used. A review of the literature was conducted to collect information on the different parameters identified. RESULTS: Multiple data collection systems exist for AMU and AMR in humans, animals and food. Each sector is responsible for the planning, implementation, analysis and reporting of its own surveillance for AMR and AMU. Some cross-sectoral collaborative activities exist such as the UK AMR contingency plan and the publication of UK OH reports; there are opportunities for further…

BACKGROUND: Communication failure is reported as a cause of error in veterinary practice and has been associated with complaints and litigation. Evidence describing the types and nature of communication problems is lacking. This limits our ability to mitigate the risk poor communication poses. METHODS: This study used a mixed methods approach to explore the frequency and types of communication problems present in settled cases of alleged veterinary professional negligence. Thematic analysis was conducted on written documents associated with 100 such cases involving canine patients. Interpretation was informed by human factors thinking and communication theory. Results were triangulated with findings from a focus group with the Veterinary Defence Society claims consultants and with healthcare literature on communication failures. RESULTS: Communication problems played a contributory role in 80% of the cases examined. The analysis highlighted features of problematic communication in veterinary practice that are underrepresented in the current literature. These include the prominence…

BACKGROUND: Understanding client perspective is important for veterinary communications, particularly during problem visits. Key client experiences of caregiver burden, anticipatory grief and quality of life (QoL) have been previously examined in this context, but never simultaneously considered. METHODS: A sample of 393 owners of an elderly or seriously ill companion animal was recruited online to complete cross-sectional measures of psychosocial function, companion animal presentation and demographics. RESULTS: Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated that owner caregiver burden, anticipatory grief and QoL reflect distinct constructs. Cluster analysis showed these experiences occur in four separate owner profiles: 'distressed', 'resilient', 'non-distressed' and owners experiencing strain due to 'other influences'. These groups appear to be differentially influenced by various factors, such as the companion animal's QoL, nature of the illness and the owner's attachment. They also show distinct differences in consideration of euthanasia and emotional functioning, including…

BACKGROUND: Stifle joint diseases (SJD) are common in dogs and include a variety of diagnoses. The objective of the study was to provide an overview of the epidemiology of SJD in insured dogs. METHODS: An historical single cohort study of dogs insured in Agria Pet Insurance (2011-2016) in Sweden was performed. Incidence and relative risk (RR) of SJD was calculated for the whole dog population and for subgroups divided by breed, breed group and sex. RESULTS: The study population included almost 600,000 insured dogs (>1.7 million dog-years). Ninety-three different stifle joint diagnoses were reported in 9624 dogs, and the most common were cruciate ligament rupture and patellar luxation. The incidence of SJD was 55.4 cases per 10,000 dog-years at risk. Bulldog and boerboel had the highest RR of SJD. The breeds that accounted for the highest proportion of all SJD claimed dogs were mixed breed and Labrador retriever. Female dogs had a slightly increased RR compared with male dogs (RR 1.06, p = 0.006). The incidence increased yearly during the observation period. CONCLUSION: The study…

BACKGROUND: Multiple outbreaks with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses, including H5N8 and H5N1, have occurred in the United Kingdom, as well as in other European countries, since late 2020. METHODS: This report describes the pathology among poultry species (chickens, turkeys, ducks, and pheasants) and captive birds (Black Swans, a whistling duck and peregrine falcons) naturally infected with HPAIV from 22 cases of HPAIV H5N8 and two cases of HPAIV H5N1 outbreaks investigated between October 2020 and April 2021. RESULTS: On gross examination, pancreatic necrosis was easily identified and most commonly observed in galliformes infected with both subtypes of HPAIV but rarely in anseriformes. In addition, splenic necrosis was also frequently observed in chickens and turkeys infected with HPAIV H5N8. Other less common lesions included cardiac petechiae, serosal haemorrhages and ascites in a variety of species. CONCLUSION: Given the widespread dissemination of HPAIV infection in susceptible avian species during autumn/winter 2020-2021, these data, when…

BACKGROUND: Backyard poultry ownership is of keen interest in the United Kingdom. However, despite this, little is known about veterinary care engagement and outcomes of visits in this group of species. METHODS: This study described and characterised veterinary practice-visiting backyard poultry, utilising electronic health record data supplied by veterinary practices voluntarily participating in the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network between 1st April 2014 and 31st March 2019. RESULTS: In total, 4424 recorded poultry consultations originating from 197 veterinary practices (352 sites) were summarised. Chicken consultation (n = 3740) peak incidence was in early summer (April-June), relative to all recorded species. More chickens resided in rural (incident rate ratio = 2.5, confidence interval [CI] 2.3-2.6, p <0.001) or less deprived areas. Non-specific clinical signs were commonly recorded (17.6% of chicken consultations, CI 15.9-19.2), as were those indicative of advanced disease. This latter finding was reflected in prescribed management strategies, with euthanasia…

BACKGROUND: Poor medication compliance by human epilepsy patients is one of the leading causes of treatment failure and increased seizure frequency. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to analyse owner compliance in pharmacological treatment of canine idiopathic epilepsy and to identify factors associated with poor compliance. METHODS: The number of antiseizure drug tablets was recorded to determine if the patient received sufficient tablets to cover the time period between prescriptions and to assess compliant prescription cycles. Additionally, compliance was assessed by an online survey of owners. RESULTS: For the prescription monitoring data from 94 cases from three small animal practices in the United Kingdom revealed an overall median compliance of 56%. Thirt-three per cent of owners were >80% compliant, while 21% were 100% compliant. During a non-compliant prescription cycle, a patient missed a median of 6 days (0.11-519 days) of treatment. Patients on polytherapy had higher compliance rates than on monotherapy (p = 0.031). The survey (229 respondents from online canine…

BACKGROUND: Even though tumours are considered to occur frequently in pet hamsters, there is only a small number of scientific reports in current literature. METHODS: Pathological reports from 177 hamsters were evaluated. RESULTS: Of these, 78 were male and 75 were female. Median age of affected hamsters was 12 months (range 2-34). Integumental tumours were the most common neoplasms (62%, 109/177). As far as species was known, the number of Syrian hamsters (52%, 30/58) affected by tumours seemed to be lower than the number of affected dwarf hamsters (85%, 47/55). Tumours of the hematopoietic system were the second most frequently neoplasms (17%, 30/177). Relative number of neoplasms of the endocrine system, tumours of the digestive system (1.7%, 3/177) and other tumours (4%, 7/177 each) was low. The majority of integumental tumours were epithelial (66%; 91/126). CONCLUSION: This study aimed to analyze data from veterinary surgeries and pathological institutes about the occurrence of spontaneous tumours in Syrian hamsters and dwarf hamsters to give information about the frequency of…

Abstract Coccidiosis is a complex parasitic disease ubiquitous in all types of poultry production. It can have both a direct effect on bird health and welfare with significant negative impacts on the production parameters and indirect effect as it predisposes to other pathogens. Ionophore coccidiostats have been used safely for over 45 years by poultry producers. Concerns have been raised that their use in livestock production could promote the development of antibiotic resistance, but their unique mode of action makes it unlikely. Conversely their removal can result in increased use of therapeutic antibiotics to treat disease posing a greater risk of antibiotic resistance development. Economic and environmental models examining the impact of the removal of ionophore coccidiostats from UK production suggest the annual cost to the broiler sector would be between £68.02–£109.95 million and result in an additional 84,000 tonnes CO 2 e being produced per annum. Any cost increase would make this wholesome and affordable animal protein less affordable to poorer sectors of society.…

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of research exploring how the horse-human relationship influences horse owners' decision-making. The aim of this study was to investigate how an owner's relationship with their horse affects decisions around key events during their horse's lifetime. METHODS: An online survey and semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with horse-owners. The online survey asked horse owners about their experiences of decision-making and their relationship with their horse and identified interview participants. Two semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 horse owners on their experience of purchasing and euthanasia of horses. Interviews were recorded and transcribed, and thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS: There were 938 responses to the online survey. The majority of owners considered their horse to be a member of the family (92.9%, 808/870). The mean amount spent annually on their horse was £9215 (range £324-14,240). Seven themes were identified in the interviews including mismatching of horse and rider; financial, time, welfare and personal…

BACKGROUND: French bulldogs have previously been reported to be at an increased risk of developing humeral condylar fractures (HCF). Humeral intracondylar fissures (HIF) are thought to be a predisposing factor for HCF occurrence in skeletally mature dogs particularly when the fracture occurs during normal activity. We hypothesised that HIF may be a predisposing factor for HCF in French bulldogs. METHODS: A retrospective case series of nine French bulldogs that had sustained HCF and where CT was performed prior to surgery. RESULTS: Five of the fractured humeri had sclerosis adjacent to the fracture site. Six of the contralateral intact humeri were diagnosed with HIF on the basis of a partial (2/6) or complete (4/6) hypoattenuating area extending between the distal articular surface and the supratrochlear foramen in the sagittal plane, with adjacent sclerosis (6/6). CONCLUSIONS: Recognition of sclerosis at the intracondylar fracture surface on CT can prompt suspicion that HIF preceded HCF. A predisposing HIF has potentially great clinical significance for this breed if we draw…

BACKGROUND: Interactions with clients have been identified as a key potential stressor within veterinary practice. However, there is a lack of research investigating the experience, and impact, of specific behaviours, such as incivility. The current study aimed to address this literature gap by investigating veterinarian perceptions of client rudeness. METHOD: Telephone interviews (n = 18) were used to gather qualitative data regarding veterinarian perceptions of client rudeness. This encompassed description of an uncivil interaction, potential causes of incivility, the impact on the veterinarian and coping strategies. RESULTS: The results indicate that veterinarians are exposed to a range of rude behaviours from clients, with suggested causal attributions spanning financial concerns, stress and worry. Adverse consequences associated with uncivil interactions included increased stress, mental health impacts and withdrawal from clients. Responses to incivility encompassed proactive pre-planning, empathy and clear communication. Support from colleagues was important to enable…

BACKGROUND: Dogs are a popular pet in the UK. Information resources utilised by dog owners can influence welfare at acquisition and throughout a dog's lifetime. This study determined where UK dog owners source information, and how perceptions relating to pedigree dog breeding and health may influence this process. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used online questionnaires to explore the information resources used by dog owners and their perceptions of veterinary surgeons' and dog breeders' knowledge. RESULTS: Overall, 1336 responses were collected (useable responses: 1167). Data indicated most owners conducted research before getting a dog, with the internet, books, breeders and friends or family among the most popular resources used. Preferred sources of information during a dogs' lifetime included the internet, talking to veterinary surgeons and reading books. Veterinary surgeons were the most popular source for health advice. Pedigree dog owners perceived veterinary surgeons and breeders to be equally knowledgeable on canine inherited diseases. However, veterinary surgeons…

Abstract Introduction Many dogs are anxious and/or fearful in veterinary clinics and exhibit avoidant and/or defensive behaviour. The purpose of pharmacological interventions is to reduce anxiety and to enable patient‐friendly, low stress physical examination and procedures. Materials and methods This was a randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, multicentre, clinical‐field study. The eligible dogs ( n = 76) were randomly assigned to receive dexmedetomidine 0.1 mg/g oromucosal gel at a dose of 125 μg/m 2 ( n = 27) or 250 μg/m 2 ( n = 24), or an equivalent volume of placebo gel ( n = 23). Results The investigator's ability to perform the intended procedure (physical examination and 1 short minor veterinary or husbandry procedure) was excellent for 40.7% of the dogs that received dexmedetomidine 125 μg/m 2 and 33.3% of those that received dexmedetomidine 250 μg/m 2 compared to only 4.3% of the placebo dogs. The overall treatment effect was statistically significant ( p = 0.03). In addition, the investigators subjective stress level assessments revealed that…

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of demographic and psychological factors on resilience in new graduate-, mid- and late-career veterinarians working in Australia. METHOD: An online cross-sectional survey of 800 veterinarians collected demographic and descriptive data in two stages from late 2015 to 2017, such as gender, average hours worked per week, type and region of practice and intention to leave veterinary medicine. Psychological factors were measured utilising the Brief Resilience Scale, the Veterinary Resilience Scale-Personal Resources, the Brief COPE and General Self-Efficacy measures. RESULTS: Using a full-factorial univariate General Linear Model, no significant difference in general resilience was evident between the three career-stage groups (p > 0.05). However, higher self-efficacy, higher personal resources for resilience in veterinary practice, and lower problem-focused, higher emotion-focused and lower dysfunctional coping strategies were related to higher resilience. In the model for mid- and late-career veterinarians, a weak positive…

Abstract Background : Communication practices used by veterinarians can impact client's involvement in decision‐making. The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of client involvement in veterinary care decisions and factors impacting client involvement. Methods : A random sample of practising companion animal veterinarians and a convenience sample of pet owners were recruited. Each consultation was audio‐video recorded and analyzed using the Observer OPTION 5 instrument, adapted from human medicine, to assess veterinarians’ level of shared decision‐making. A mixed linear model was used to assess statistical associations between veterinarian, client and appointment‐level factors and OPTION 5 scores. Results : Sixty veterinarians and 909 of their clients were audio‐video recorded during a consultation, of which 717 interactions included a decision identified for analysis using the OPTION 5 instrument. Elements consistent with shared decision‐making were uncommon, with a mean OPTION 5 score of 22.6 (median = 20.0; sd = 13.05; range = 0–75) out of 100. OPTION 5 scores were…

BACKGROUND: This paper uses two endemic health conditions to explore farmer understandings of and responses to livestock health and welfare issues. METHODS: The findings are based on a survey of 42 livestock farmers in the north of England, exploring how they manage lameness in sheep and cattle and bovine viral diarrhoea in cattle. We identify similarities and differences in their approaches. RESULTS: Two themes emerge. (1) The importance of difference between animal types (i.e., beef cattle, dairy cattle and sheep), which highlights the 'complex' and 'multifactorial' nature of animal health and welfare. It is necessary to unpack this to understand the interplay of animal, resource and management issues in farmer responses. (2) Previous research has identified 'lack of knowledge' as a key welfare issue. Our findings reveal farmers are in fact seeking, acquiring and sharing knowledge on practices related to the management of animal health however individual circumstance and context influence how this translates in practice. CONCLUSION: Our research highlights the importance of…

BACKGROUND: Piling, a behaviour where hens crowd together, is referred to as smothering if mortalities result. Smothering is a considerable concern for the egg industry, yet is vastly understudied. METHODS: During an outbreak of recurrent smothering, continuous video footage captured a commercial, free-range flock over 35 days. We describe the piling behaviour observed and potential associations with productivity and flock health indicators. RESULTS: and up to 1204 birds in one pile. Piling occurred in the same house location on 33 of 34 observation days, the first evidence of regularity in piling behaviour. Despite extreme bird densities, we did not find associations between piling extremity and productivity but did find associations with water:feed ratio and temperature range. CONCLUSION: This study describes the most extreme level of piling reported in literature and offers new insights into this problem behaviour and its consequences.

INTRODUCTION: Transport to the clinic is a major source of stress for cats. The process involves being put into a carrier, driven in a car and handled. Cats are therefore removed from the safe-haven of their territory and experience many stressful stimuli and interactions. METHODS: In the present study, 31 cats were transported to the clinic following a low-stress transport protocol and compared with a control group of 36 cats whose owners did not follow the protocol. This protocol involved preparing a cat carrier basket with F3 pheromone and keeping it covered and stable during the car journey from the home to the clinic. Pre-anaesthesia information was recorded for cardiac rate, respiratory rate, tolerance to handling, time for sedation to be achieved and dose of propofol required for induction and endotracheal intubation. RESULTS: The group exposed to the low-stress transport protocol took less time to reach sedation and needed a lower dose of propofol for induction than the control group. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that, in cats, pre-anaesthetic and induction requirements…

BACKGROUND: Congenital vertebral body malformations (CVBMs) have retrospectively been investigated in British and American canine populations. This study prospectively evaluates occurrence, localization, type and characteristic of CVBM along the entire vertebral column in a cohort of French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs and Pug dogs from Germany. METHODS: Prospective clinical and radiological screenings for CVBM were performed in brachycephalic dogs presented for reasons unrelated to neurological problems. Neurological and orthopaedic examinations as well as radiographs in two orthogonal planes of the entire vertebral column including the tail were performed in all dogs. Cobb angle and vertebral step were determined. Associations between CVBM, tail malformation, neurological deficits and occurrence of concurrent orthopaedic diseases were investigated. RESULTS: A total of 707 VBMs were identified in the whole vertebral column of 169 of 265 brachycephalic dogs. The most common types of CVBMs were ventral wedge shape (48%), dorsal wedge shape (14%) and shortened vertebral body (14%). A…

BACKGROUND: Avian malaria has caused mortalities in captive penguins worldwide and it is a conservation threat for some wild penguins. The experience of staff working on penguins is highly valuable for the improvement of captivity conditions. METHODS: An online questionnaire was designed to collect avian malaria information in penguins in the UK. Volunteers with diverse experience reviewed it for scientific value and clarity, and it was supported by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums. RESULTS: Forty-two institutions were contacted by email, obtaining 27 complete and five partial responses. Eighteen institutions reported avian malaria in 38 suspected and 37 confirmed outbreaks in the past 20 years, mainly occurring in the summer and recent years. Proportional risk was higher in the south east region of England. Humboldt and African penguins were more commonly affected, and prevalence was mostly low or medium, but lethality was high. Different treatment protocols were reported with inconsistent outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Penguins' susceptibility, their translocation…

BACKGROUND: Despite the rise in positive psychology within organisational settings, less is known about the positive factors associated with veterinary work and veterinarian well-being. This qualitative study investigated sources of pleasure for veterinarians. METHOD: A subset of archival data from a larger study on veterinary well-being was analysed. The current study was based on data from 273 veterinarians responding to a Ten Statements Test (TST) and demographic questions. In the TST, participants provided up to 10 responses to the prompt, 'I derive pleasure in my work as a veterinarian when…'. RESULTS: Using the job demands-resources model as a framework, a total of 2536 responses were manually coded into themes relating to resources (positive responses) or demands (responses indicating a negative factor). In order of frequency, job resources are related to professional expertise (22%), positive outcomes (20%), job characteristics (19%), relationships (16%), recognition (10%), helping (7%) and personal resources (3%). Top job demands are related to stress and fatigue (17%) and…

BACKGROUND: Veterinarians have been identified as being at particularly high risk of stress in the workplace, this predisposes them to anxiety, depression and suicide. Previous quantitative studies have identified causes of stress and common coping strategies used by veterinarians. The current research aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the experience of veterinarian stress and ways of coping using qualitative methods. METHOD: Twelve practicing small animal veterinarians in Australia were recruited. They took part individually in semi-structured research interviews. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to design the study and to analyse the transcripts. RESULTS: Analyses of the interview data identified an overarching theme: spending less time working in clinical settings and four main themes: Preoccupation, self-doubt, conflicting responsibilities (between care of the animal, the human client and financial demands of the business) and insufficient support. CONCLUSION: The results give a deeper understanding of sources of stress and the difficulties…

BACKGROUND: Bovine leptospirosis is mainly characterized by reproductive disorders. Contamination of the oocyte was previously demonstrated in vitro, resulting in some apparent damage. However, it is not clear whether it occurs under natural conditions. The present study aimed to characterize the presence of pathogenic Leptospira DNA in the ovarian follicles of non-pregnant cows. METHODS: Follicular fluid samples were collected from 65 animals and subjected to lipL32 PCR and secY sequencing. RESULTS: In total, seven of 65 (10.8%) were positive, indicating a possible early infection of the oocyte. Moreover, secY sequencing identified L. interrogans and L. santarosai, both very closely related to bovine strains from the Sejroe serogroup (Hardjoprjitno and Guaricura). We demonstrated that ovarian follicles can also be infected. CONCLUSIONS: It was hypothesised that ovarian infection can contribute to embryonic death, causing reproductive failure and estrus repetition. In the present study, we show that the organism identified in the follicle is closely related to one that is known to…

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to assess the most likely causes of Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) breakdowns in Spanish cattle herds and to identify the main risk factors at farm-level. METHODS: Causes of bTB breakdowns were assessed through a qualitative risk-assessment based on decision-trees by analysing surveillance data from 3819 bTB breakdowns detected during 2014-2016. Results were compared to veterinary officers' (VO) opinions. Risk factors were identified through a case-control study with data from 196 bTB cases and 160 controls collected during 2014-2018. RESULTS: The decision tree analysis identified residual infections and interactions with wildlife as the most frequent causes of breakdowns (36% each), followed by purchasing infected cattle (14%). These results were not supported by VOs' opinions. According to the regression models, the risk of bTB increased by sharing pastures (odds ratios [OR] = 2.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6-4.4) and by increasing inwards cattle movements. The presence of wildlife reservoirs represented a significant risk for extensively-managed…

BACKGROUND: Previously national surveillance data for monitoring strangles (Streptococcus equi infection) in UK horses was limited. Improved awareness and knowledge of positive diagnoses would permit the optimisation of biosecurity protocols, decreasing the prevalence of strangles. METHODS: Seven UK laboratories reported positive strangles diagnoses between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2019 based on identifying Streptococcus equi via agent detection assays from field-based practitioner-submitted samples. Associated clinical history and animal signalment were collected where provided, and descriptive analysis undertaken. RESULTS: Within the study period, 1617 laboratory-confirmed diagnoses occurred from samples submitted by 315 veterinary practices. Of these, 51.6% were swabs and 44.0% guttural pouch lavages. Diagnoses were primarily based on qPCR alone (59.6%), qPCR and culture (35.8%), or culture alone (4.6%). A total of 1791 clinical signs were reported for 713 diagnoses, where nasal discharge (31.3%) and pyrexia (20.5%) were most frequently reported. Regions with the highest…

BACKGROUND: To date, despite the substantial literature investigating how rats prefer to be kept in captivity, no research has been conducted to assess the housing, husbandry and health of pet rats. METHODS: To better understand the United Kingdom's pet rat population and the welfare issues they face, we conducted an online survey of pet rat owners. The survey included questions about the owner and their opinions about pet rats, and about their rats' health, husbandry and housing. RESULTS: The results, from 677 complete responses, highlighted areas of rat care that were "good", "bad" and "ugly" (i.e. likely to be highly detrimental to welfare). The good was that many rats were provided with a social companion and enrichment; the bad was that we could not be certain whether rats had a sufficiently nutritious diet or sufficient opportunities to explore or adequate nesting substrate; and the ugly included cases of exposure of rats to predator species within the home and a generally high prevalence of disease. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that there is much cause for concern about the…

BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM) is becoming increasingly popular in horses. METHODS: Online, cross-sectional survey in 1532 horse owners. Attitude towards CAVM, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and intention for future CAVM use were measured based on the theory of planned behaviour. Structural equation modelling was performed to characterize factors influencing intention to use CAVM. RESULTS: Past use of CAVM, predominantly manual therapies and herbal supplements, was reported by 72.5% of all participants. Frequently reported indications were improving horse's well-being, illness which did not resolve after conventional treatment and chronic illness. The attitude towards CAVM was positive with a median (interquartile range) score of 6 of 7 (4.75-7.00). Predictors for past CAVM use were higher owner age, alternative medicine self-use and higher education (non-university). The strongest predictor of future CAVM usage was perceived behavioural control and perceived CAVM efficacy, as well as positive attitude towards and perceived…

BACKGROUND: The therapeutic strategy of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) often involves a combination of an antibiotic with an anti-inflammatory agent. Aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of a new combination product containing tulathromycin and ketoprofen for the treatment of naturally occurring BRD. METHODS: Two hundred and eighty animals were randomized upon diagnosis of BRD. One hundred forty animals each were treated once subcutaneously with tulathromycin-ketoprofen or tulathromycin. Rectal temperature of each animal was measured at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 24 h post-treatment. Individual respiration and depression scores were determined at 6 h post-treatment. Daily rectal temperature, respiration and depression scores were recorded from day 2 to 14 and on day 21. RESULTS: The tulathromycin-ketoprofen and tulathromycin treatment group demonstrated a treatment success rate of 94.2% and 95.0%, respectively and a relapse rate of 3.8% and 4.0%, respectively. Tulathromycin-ketoprofen demonstrated superior pyrexia control compared to tulathromycin within the first…

BACKGROUND: Clinical canine massage involves muscle tissue manipulation and fascial release techniques to rehabilitate injured soft tissues. Quantitative efficacy data are lacking. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine how dogs respond to canine massage therapy practiced by Canine Massage Guild UK practitioners. METHODS: In 2018, case notes from a convenience sample of 527 dogs were shared, with permission from owners, by a self-selected sample of 65 practitioners. Changes in number and severity of issues for five pain indicators (gait, posture, daily activity, behaviour, performance) and quality of life score, reported by owner and practitioners, were investigated. RESULTS: Significant reductions in reported pain severity scores were recorded for all pain indicators over successive treatments (p < 0.001), with each treatment causing further significant reduction in pain severity. Number of pain indicators recorded over successive treatment sessions remained constant, in keeping with a cohort presenting with degenerative disease and chronic pain. All dogs and diagnostic…

BACKGROUND: Within the production animal sector, it has long been forecast that demand for veterinary services could outstrip supply. This study aims to identify factors influencing veterinary undergraduates' attitudes towards a career in farm animal veterinary practice and how those factors may be influenced by their experiences during their time as an undergraduate. METHODS: An online survey was distributed to all vet schools in the UK and Ireland. Thematic analysis and descriptive data analysis were performed on the 1146 responses received. RESULTS: Seven themes were identified: relationships, preferences and interest, fit, direct experience, fear, ethics and values and lifestyle. When considering first job choice, extra mural studies (EMS) and personal interest (60% and 75% of respondents respectively) were very influential. Factors that appeal or put off respondents from a career in farm animal varied dependent on anticipated first job (p < 0.001), but working hours and out of hours were consistently identified as barriers. CONCLUSION: The results highlight the importance of…

OBJECTIVE: Aim of the current in vivo, observational study was to investigate the effect of trimming, heel elevation and different types of shoeing on breakover duration (BreakD) with a novel, hoof-mounted inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor system. METHODS: Ten sound, crossbred horses were examined barefoot before and after trimming fitted with an IMU sensor at the dorsal hoof wall. Additionally, application of 5° heel wedges, plain steel shoes, rolled-toe shoes and palmarly-placed quarter-clip shoes was tested. Horses were guided in a straight line on firm ground. Obtained data were speed corrected prior to calculations testing the influence of different manipulations for their significance on BreakD. RESULTS: Trimming had no significant influence on BreakD. Heel elevation caused a significant decrease of BreakD in walk and trot. Shoeing with a plain steel shoe resulted in a significant increase in BreakD in walk. This could be rescinded by creating a rolled toe or placing the shoe palmarly. CONCLUSION: Obtained results emphasize the use of heel wedges or rolled-toe and…

BACKGROUND: The Five Welfare Needs in UK animal welfare legislation underpin a legal duty of care and are an animal welfare assessment framework. Health and welfare problems arise when these needs are unmet. The veterinary professions work with others to address these problems, but there is no publicly funded U.K. companion animal welfare surveillance to identify priorities, or promote and monitor change. METHODS: The veterinary charity, the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), together with the market research organisation, YouGov, has undertaken a longitudinal nationwide survey, assessing whether the U.K's pet dogs, cats and rabbits are having their Five Welfare Needs met. Data from nationally representative samples of pet-owning adults, drawn from YouGov's online survey panel, have been used to produce the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report annually since 2011. RESULTS: Examples are given of how the PAW Report has been used to monitor trends in animal welfare problems, drive collaborative behaviour change campaigns, create evidence-based funding applications and inspire…

OBJECTIVES: We investigated the financial impact of different prevalence levels of severe tail lesions (STL) during the finisher stage associated with changes in average daily gain (ADG) in farrow-to-finish pig farms. METHODS: Prevalence of STL was estimated for 31 farrow-to-finish pig farms. Regression tree analysis was used to identify a threshold for STL associated with differences in ADG. Then, a financial analysis was carried using the Teagasc Pig Production model. RESULTS: A threshold of ≥0.86% prevalence of STL was associated with a 4.8% decrease in ADG which translated into pigs requiring 7 days more to reach target slaughter weight than in farms below the threshold. Reduced ADG meant that farms with higher prevalence of STL used 3.6% more weaner and 1.4% more finisher feed per year increasing feed costs by 1.5%. This reduced mean annual farm profit by 15.1% in farms with higher prevalence of STL. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide an indication of the financial effects of STL in intensive pig production systems. The identified threshold for the prevalence of STL could provide…

BACKGROUND: Enflicoxib is a new COX-2 selective NSAID intended for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with canine osteoarthritis. METHODS: A prospective, multisite, blinded, randomised, controlled, parallel-group field study was performed to determine the efficacy and safety of enflicoxib in canine osteoarthritis. A total of 242 dogs were randomised to receive enflicoxib at 4 or 2 mg/kg, mavacoxib at 2 mg/kg or placebo, orally. Enflicoxib and placebo were administered once weekly from day 0 to day 35. Mavacoxib was administered on D0 and day 14. Veterinarians assessed efficacy with a numerical rating scale and owners used the Canine Brief Pain Inventory. RESULTS: After 6 weeks, enflicoxib at 4 mg/kg showed the highest percentage of responders as assessed by the veterinarians (68%) and the owners (84%), followed by mavacoxib (62and 83%, respectively), and enflicoxib at 2 mg/kg (57 and 80%, respectively). All treatments reached statistical significance versus placebo, which obtained success rates of 37% and 53%, respectively. No differences in the incidence of adverse…

BACKGROUND: Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is a multidrug-resistant canine pathogen with a low zoonotic potential. This study investigated MRSP carriage and clearance through topical antimicrobial therapy and household cleaning in dogs recovered from MRSP infection. METHODS: Dogs were swabbed for MRSP carriage; household contamination was assessed using contact plates. Carrier dogs were allocated randomly to receive topical fusidic acid and chlorhexidine/miconazole treatment combined with owners implementing a household hygiene protocol (H&T) or implementation of hygiene alone (H) over three weeks. Carriage-negative dogs were monitored monthly. The relatedness of isolates over time was investigated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). RESULTS: At inclusion, MRSP carriage was confirmed in 31/46 (67.4%) index dogs and 16/24 (66.7%) contact dogs, and contamination was found in 18/40 (45%) environments. In dogs completing all cycles, interventions cleared carriage in 5/9 (55.6%) dogs in group H&T and 2/6 (33.3%) in group H. Environmental contamination…

BACKGROUND: Bacterial lower respiratory tract infections (bLRTIs) are common and potentially life threatening in cats and dogs. Antibiotic treatment is often initiated before the diagnosis of bLRTI; therefore improved knowledge of the aetiology and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of these infections is essential to inform empiric antibiotic choices. METHODS: A retrospective study of microbiological, cytological results and their drug susceptibilities from lower respiratory samples (n = 1989) processed in a UK commercial laboratory between 2002 and 2012 was carried out. RESULTS: Thirty-nine per cent of feline samples and 50% of canine samples were positive for bacterial growth with most yielding a single organism (72 % and 69%, respectively). Bordetella bronchiseptica (20.2% from dogs and 2.3% from cats), Pasteurella spp. (23.2%, 31.8%), E. coli (16.2%, 13.6%) and Pseudomonas spp. (11.1%, 11.4%) were most frequently isolated from cytologically positive samples which contained intracellular bacteria (10%, 14%). Amoxycillin-clavulanate, cephalothin, cefovecin, oxytetracycline and…

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to define the rate of progression of radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) of the canine hip joint and to describe factors affecting this progression. METHODS: Dogs that underwent unilateral total hip replacement (THR) were reviewed for the evaluation of radiographic appearance of the non-operated hip joint over time. Standard extended ventrodorsal hip radiographs were taken preoperatively and postoperatively. All images were anonymized, randomized and scored using three different methods. The mean daily change between evaluations was calculated in each individual dog, and the effect of sex, age, body weight, open/closed status of the proximal femoral physis, preoperative severity of OA, time after surgery and their interactions, were investigated as potential influencing factors. RESULTS: After reviewing the medical records, 163 dogs (468 images) met the inclusion criteria. Consistent across the three scoring systems, radiographic progression of OA was greater in younger (open physis) and spayed female dogs. A subset of seven patients (4.3%) had a faster…

BACKGROUND: Although the use of clinical reasoning has been evaluated for several neurological presentations, this approach has not yet been investigated for dogs with vestibular syndrome. METHODS: Two hundred and thirty-nine dogs presenting with vestibular syndrome were included in this retrospective study. Univariate analysis of variables (clinical history, signalment, clinical presentation and neurological examination findings) was performed. Variables with p < 0.3 were selected for logistic regression. RESULTS: Ninety-five percent of dogs were represented by eight conditions: idiopathic vestibular disease (n = 78 dogs), otitis media interna (n = 54), meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (n = 35), brain neoplasia (n = 26), ischaemic infarct (n = 25), intracranial empyema (n = 4), metronidazole toxicity (n = 3) and neoplasia affecting the middle ear (n = 3). Idiopathic vestibular disease was associated with higher age, higher bodyweight, improving clinical signs, pathological nystagmus, facial nerve paresis, absence of Horner's syndrome and a peripheral localisation. Otitis media…