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An 8‐year‐old male cross‐Labrador retriever was presented for a progressive appearance of folds all over the body of the dog. Scleromyxoedema was diagnosed based on clinical signs and histopathological features. Clinical signs were characterised by a papular and vesicular eruption and severe skin thickening causing exuberant folds along with concurrent severe osteoarthritis of the coxofemoral joints. Thyroid disorders were excluded and the condition was not associated with monoclonal gammopathy. Histopathological features consisted of mucin deposition, fibroblast proliferation and fibrosis. Prednisolone was prescribed to decrease mucin synthesis which allowed a marked clinical improvement. Due to the progressive inability to walk, the dog was euthanased 6 months after the first consultation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To establish ultrasonographic measurements of the prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios including the prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio in healthy, intact male dogs and compare these ratios between healthy dogs and dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Materials and Methods: Healthy dogs (n = 75) and dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia (n = 104) were included in the study. Prostate length, width, average height and aortic luminal diameter were measured from ultrasonographic images. In addition, prostatic volume was calculated, and prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter were also compared. Results: In healthy dogs, aortic luminal diameter was significantly associated with bodyweight and the prostatic width while body condition scores, prostate length and prostatic average height were not associated. Prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios and prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio was not significantly different among dogs with different body condition scores either in healthy dogs or dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia, except prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios were significantly higher in benign prostatic hyperplasia while prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio significantly higher in healthy dogs. Prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios demonstrated medium to high sensitivity and specificity when distinguishing between healthy dogs and dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Prostatomegaly, should be considered when the prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios increase. The calculated cut‐off values were 3.68, 4.46 and 3.06 for prostate length‐to‐aortic luminal diameter, prostatic width‐ to‐aortic luminal diameter and prostatic average height‐to‐aortic luminal diameter, respectively. Clinical Significance: The prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios could be useful to evaluate the size of the prostate in dogs, as it is unaffected by the body condition scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To report the clinical experience and long‐term outcome following metabone fracture stabilisation using a commercially available micro‐plating system (VetKISS, 1.0‐mm, IMEX Veterinary, USA). Materials and Methods: Consecutive, client‐owned cats and dogs weighing <7 kg, with traumatic metabone fractures stabilised using VetKISS micro‐plates were prospectively enrolled with informed owner consent. Clinical and radiographic parameters were recorded. Either short‐term or long‐term clinical and radiographic follow‐up was required for study inclusion. Results: Four cats and six dogs were enrolled and operated by one of two board‐certified surgeons. Bodyweight ranged from 1.9 to 6.6 kg. Number of metabones fractured: all four (60%), three (30%) and two (10%). Anatomical alignment was restored for each metabone. External coaptation was not used in any case. Radiographic follow‐up documented clinical or bony union in all cases. Mean time to clinical union was 51 days. One major complication (screw removal) and two minor complications (partial construct failure) were observed. All patients made a complete functional recovery at the time of documented union. Long‐term follow‐up was available in five cases. No lameness (evaluated independently by both surgeons) or plate sensitivity was noted. Clinical Significance: This is the first clinical evaluation of the VetKISS for metabone fracture repair, and includes long‐term follow‐up. Results demonstrated complete functional recovery and 100% clinical union rates in all patients, with acceptable complication rates. This system can be considered for metabone repair in patients weighing <7 kg without the use of external coaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To report the presentation, treatment and outcome of dogs with granulomatous steatitis associated with total and ionised hypercalcaemia. Methods: Six dogs diagnosed with ionised and/or total hypercalcaemia and histologically diagnosed granulomatous steatitis were evaluated to determine the clinical signs, clinical findings, response to treatment and outcome. These cases were seen at different primary care and referral veterinary hospitals in the United Kingdom between 2019 and 2023. Results: No alternative aetiology to explain the total and/or ionised hypercalcaemia or steatitis was identified. The most common presenting signs were lethargy, anorexia or hyporexia, vomiting and polyuria/polydipsia. Other clinical signs included weight loss, discomfort and panting. Five out of the six dogs responded to prednisolone. Four dogs were alive at the time of writing, one dog was lost to follow‐up and one dog died 2 weeks post‐diagnosis. Clinical Significance: It is well‐established that granulomatous disease can cause hypercalcaemia. In this case series we found granulomatous steatitis associated with total and/or ionised hypercalcaemia. Dogs diagnosed with granulomatous steatitis should have ionised calcium measured, which may prompt further diagnostics and treatment options. Dogs with hypercalcaemia should be evaluated for evidence of steatitis where more common differentials have been excluded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the rate of accidental placement of nasoenteric tubes into the respiratory tract. To compare the methods of checking correct tube placement. To compare the complication rates between nasoesophageal and nasogastric tubes. Materials and Methods: Animals requiring nasoenteric feeding tubes were prospectively randomised to have either nasoesophageal or nasogastric tube placement. Various techniques for assessing tube position were compared with thoracic radiographic findings. Complications during placement and use were recorded. Results: Ninety‐seven animals (82 dogs and 15 cats) were studied. The tube was misplaced into the respiratory tract in three (3.1%) cases. No technique for checking placement was completely concordant with radiography but the presence of negative pressure at the thoracic inlet during placement was consistent with the presence of the tube in the oesophagus in 86.2% cases, while capnography can be considered to confirm tracheal placement. The overall rate of complications during tube placement was 25.8%, with mostly minor clinical complications reported. There was no significant difference in the new‐onset regurgitation/vomiting rate, or complications while the tube was in situ between the nasoesophageal and nasogastric groups. Clinical Significance: Misplacement of nasoenteric tubes is uncommon but a consistent alternative test to radiography for checking correct nasoenteric tube placement was not demonstrated. The choice of placement of either a nasoesophageal or nasogastric tube should be guided by clinician preference, and clients should be warned about possible complications during placement and while the nasoenteric tube is in situ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe the clinical outcome of dogs diagnosed with concurrent discospondylitis/vertebral physitis and congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunts. Materials and Methods: Medical records from two academic institutions were searched for dogs diagnosed with discospondylitis and/or vertebral physitis, and a concurrent intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Dogs were excluded if they did not undergo attenuation of their shunt, did not have a single congenital intrahepatic shunt and did not have at least 90 days of follow‐up. Results: Six dogs met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Discospondylitis alone was diagnosed in four dogs, vertebral physitis alone in one dog and both discospondylitis and vertebral physitis in one dog. Three dogs had a right divisional intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, and three dogs had a left divisional intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Median duration of antimicrobial therapy was 112 days (range 14 to 240 days). Clinical resolution of discospondylitis and vertebral physitis was noted in all dogs. Endovascular attenuation was performed in all dogs a median of 82 days after presentation (range 1 to 317 days). No perioperative or postoperative complications occurred. All dogs were alive at the last available follow‐up a median of 513 days after presentation (range 224 to 1504 days) and free of clinical signs associated with discospondylitis or vertebral physitis, as well as their portosystemic shunt. Clinical Significance: Dogs with intrahepatic portosystemic shunts may concurrently develop discospondylitis and vertebral physitis. With antimicrobial therapy and endovascular embolisation of their portosystemic shunt, all dogs in this study had a good outcome with clinical resolution of both disease processes. However, long‐term follow‐up was not obtained in all cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides a neutral and informative overview of the benefits and potential drawbacks of gonadectomy (surgical removal of reproductive organs) in dogs and cats. It discusses the various medical conditions and behavioral concerns that can be addressed through gonadectomy, such as the prevention of certain diseases and the decrease in unwanted behaviors. However, it also highlights the increased risk of certain tumors and orthopedic problems associated with the procedure. The document emphasizes the need for further research and individualized decision-making when considering gonadectomy, while also addressing the ethics of reproductive control and the importance of responsible pet ownership. [Extracted from the article]

A 6‐year‐old, female neutered Labrador retriever was presented with a chronic history of vomiting and anorexia. Abdominal ultrasound identified two large cavitated structures with echogenic content in the gastric fundus and pyloric region. CT revealed the intraparietal nature of these structures, one in the greater curvature and another one extending from the lesser curvature to the pyloric antrum. Surgical exploration revealed two areas of thickened gastric wall with intramural purulent material. Debridement and partial resection of the abscess (deroofing) were performed via a routine gastrotomy approach. Histopathology of a gastric wall sample revealed neutrophilic inflammation with intralesional vegetal foreign body. The presence of intralesional foreign body with a positive bacterial culture and macroscopic absence of peritonitis may suggest an intramural migrating vegetal foreign body. Gastric wall abscess should be included in a differential diagnosis in dogs with a history of chronic vomiting and the presence of gastric wall cavitated structures. Surgical debridement through a routine gastrotomy opening alleviated the clinical signs related to the intramural gastric abscesses in this dog with no recurrence at 22 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe the clinical signs and outcome of a large cohort of dogs presenting with neurological signs secondary to Neospora caninum infection. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of cases presenting to two UK referral centres with neurological signs secondary to N. caninum infection between 2014 and 2023. Presenting signs, diagnostic test results, treatment, short‐ and long‐term outcome analysed. Results: A total of 1690 cases were assessed for eligibility. Forty‐four cases with a diagnosis of neosporosis were obtained. Three cases were then excluded due to non‐neurological presentations (two hepatitis and one myocarditis). A total of 41 cases were included in the study. Cerebello‐vestibular signs predominated; however, presenting clinical signs were varied and the neurolocalisation was often multifocal in nature (46.3%), making neosporosis an important differential diagnosis for meningoencephalitis of unknown origin. Complete clinical improvement was rare (5.6%), and relapses were common (27.8% cases with follow‐up). Clinical Significance: Neosporosis remains an important differential diagnosis for dogs at any age presenting with multifocal neurological signs. The outcome is considered poor and relapse rate is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The role of bacterial communities in the pathophysiology of canine nasal disease is still unclear. How and when to treat dogs with suspected secondary bacterial rhinitis and on which test to rely before making a decision to treat with antimicrobials has not been established. The objective is to compare the results of bacterial identification using agar‐plate cultures and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing in dogs with nasal discharge suspected to be of bacterial origin. Materials and Methods: Twenty‐nine client‐owned dogs presented for investigation of nasal disease were included in the study. Paired swabs were collected from the same affected nasal cavity. One swab was streaked on 4 agar media (Columbia Blood Agar, MacConkey, Chapman and Edward's). The other swab was stored in a sterile cryotube at −80°. Extracted DNA underwent a polymerase chain reaction targeting the V1‐V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Results: At least one of the species detected by amplicon sequencing with a relative abundance of >10% was also identified by culture in 14 cases (48.3%), in association with marked predominance of one taxon (>80% relative abundance) in six of 14 cases. In 12 dogs (41.4%), the cultured isolates were rare or undetected components of the corresponding sequence libraries. A negative culture in the face of bacterial predominance (>50% relative abundance) of a potentially pathogenic bacteria detected by sequencing occurred in 17% (n=5) of cases; however, the use of other agar media may have decreased this percentage. Clinical Significance: Standard culture does not reliably predict the bacterial profile detected by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate analgesia, sedation and adverse effects of two doses of subcutaneous methadone in dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. Materials and Methods: Seventeen client‐owned dogs undergoing unilateral tibial plateau levelling osteotomy were randomly allocated to receive either 0.25 mg/kg methadone (eight dogs) or 0.5 mg/kg methadone (nine dogs). All dogs were premedicated with methadone and 2 to 6 mcg/kg dexmedetomidine subcutaneously. They were induced and maintained on a standard protocol. All animals received a second dose of methadone subcutaneously 4 hours after premedication and a 4.4 mg/kg dose of carprofen subcutaneously at 8 hours after premedication. During surgery, blood pressure, heart rate and temperature were assessed every 5 minutes. Postoperatively, sedation scores, temperature, heart rate and Glasgow composite modified pain score – short form were assessed for 12 hours postoperatively. Results: One of 17 (5.9%) dogs had intraoperative hypotension, nine of 17 dogs had intra‐operative bradyarrhythmias and 17 of 17 dogs had intra‐operative hypothermia. No dogs required intra‐operative rescue. Composite modified pain score – short form scores were below the threshold for intervention in 16 of 17 (94.1%) animals. Only one of 17 (5.9%) dogs required rescue analgesia. Median sedation score was 0 by the T8 time point. Adverse events were rare in both groups with only vocalisation and hypothermia reported commonly postoperatively. Clinical Significance: Two doses of methadone at either 0.25 or 0.5 mg/kg administered via subcutaneous injections pre‐operatively and 4 hours later, along with 4.4 mg/kg carprofen subcutaneously 8 hours after the first methadone dose appear to provide sufficient pain control for up to 12 hours in dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Myoclonic seizures are considered a type of generalised seizure characterised by brief, jerking movements of the body. The aim of this study is to describe cases of suspected canine myoclonic seizure of idiopathic aetiology and to discuss the successful use of the anticonvulsant levetiracetam as treatment in each of these cases. Materials and Methods: Dogs with epileptic myoclonus suspected to be idiopathic in aetiology were considered for inclusion. Medical records were reviewed for physical and neurologic examination findings, clinicopathologic results, and diagnostic imaging results. All included dogs were treated with levetiracetam, and their response was reported. Results: Five dogs were included, all of which had suspected myoclonic seizures either observed in‐person or on video recording by a board‐certified veterinary neurologist. The duration of myoclonic seizures preceding treatment ranged from one day to one year. One dog also experienced a generalised tonic–clonic seizure. All dogs were treated with levetiracetam. Two dogs experienced long‐term myoclonic seizure freedom (duration seizure‐free of at least 1 year), and two dogs experienced marked decreased myoclonic seizure frequency. One dog experienced immediate abatement of myoclonic seizures, although levetiracetam was only utilised for 1 month following onset of myoclonic seizures in this patient. Clinical Significance: Myoclonic seizures can be idiopathic in aetiology. Levetiracetam can be used effectively to rapidly stop myoclonic seizures and to decrease the frequency of myoclonic seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes a centralisation procedure for the treatment of a radial non‐union, characterised by extensive bone loss and an intact ulna, in an 18‐month‐old toy poodle. A lateral approach to the radius/ulna shafts was realised and, after debridement of the non‐union site, an ulnar osteotomy was performed proximal to the styloid process of the ulna. Transposition of the distal fragment of the radius to the distal end of the osteotomised proximal segment of the ulna was performed and the stabilisation was obtained using a locking plate with proximal screws in the ulnar shaft and distal screws in the radius epiphysis. The patient achieved bone union in 10 weeks and the last evaluation, performed 112 weeks postoperatively, showed a full return to pre‐injury function. Based on the results of this report, the centralisation was effective in the treatment of post‐traumatic absence of the radial shaft in a dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Clinical presentation and outcomes of dogs with tonsillar foreign bodies are not described in the literature. The objective of this case series is to describe the presence, clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings and outcomes of foreign bodies in the palatine tonsillar fossa of dogs. Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs in which tonsillar fossa foreign bodies were removed by endoscopy between 2020 and 2023 at a referral centre were reviewed. Dogs were included if complete medical records were available. Results: Seven dogs were included. Among all clinical signs reported, acute onset of throat clearing occurred in all dogs. Palatine tonsil enlargement and protrusion from the tonsillar fossa were observed in four of seven dogs. Foreign bodies were removed under endoscopic guidance in all dogs; a vegetal foreign body was found in all but one dog (6/7). Complete resolution of clinical signs was reported in the five dogs for which follow‐up information was available. Clinical Significance: The tonsillar fossa is a rare but possible location for foreign bodies in dogs and should be explored even in the absence of macroscopic lesions of the tonsils, since some dogs could have a normal palatine tonsil appearance. Acute throat clearing should raise the suspicion of tonsillar fossa foreign bodies. The prognosis appears good after removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of human intravenous immunoglobulin in dogs with newly diagnosed malignancy and presumed secondary immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia. Materials and Methods: Twelve client‐owned dogs with newly diagnosed malignant disease and presumed secondary immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia were prospectively enrolled to receive a single infusion of human intravenous immunoglobulin at a dose of 0.5 to 1 mg/kg intravenous over 8 hours. A complete treatment response was defined as a platelet estimation of ≥40,000 platelets/μL within 24 hours and a partial response within 48 hours from the completion of human intravenous immunoglobulin infusion. No treatment response was defined as a platelet estimation remaining <40,000 platelets/μL over 48 hours from the completion of the human intravenous immunoglobulin infusion. This pilot study had a prospective, open‐label, uncontrolled design. Results: Out of the 12 enrolled dogs, seven completed the study. A complete treatment response to human intravenous immunoglobulin was identified in one lymphoma dog and a partial response was noted in another lymphoma dog. The remaining 10 dogs had no response to human intravenous immunoglobulin. No clinically relevant adverse reactions to human intravenous immunoglobulin occurred in any of the 12 initially enrolled dogs during the infusion and over a 3‐month follow‐up period for the seven surviving dogs. Clinical Significance: The results of this study suggest that the use of human intravenous immunoglobulin in dogs with newly diagnosed malignant disease and presumed secondary immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia appears safe, but not effective for the treatment of thrombocytopenia. Larger multi‐centre, prospective, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, outcome‐based, malignancy‐specific studies are needed to further evaluate these preliminary findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Angiostrongylosis is a significant differential for a diverse range of clinical signs in dogs, many of whom present acutely and sometimes with fatal consequences. Point‐of‐care diagnostic assays include a commercially available Angiostrongylus vasorum qualitative direct lateral flow assay. Materials and Methods: Case records from one referral centre from dogs with an invalid A. vasorum lateral flow assay, comprising an absent control line alongside a visible test line, were reviewed. As control line failure was hypothesised to be due to antigen excess; where available the A. vasorum lateral flow assay was repeated using dilutions of the original serum. Results: Six dogs had an invalid A. vasorum lateral flow assay result. Five dogs had presented with acute‐onset, severe clinical disease consistent with angiostrongylosis, and one dog was a clinically healthy in‐contact. Clinical suspicion of angiostrongylosis was confirmed using alternative diagnostic testing and/or response to treatment. Repetition of the A. vasorum lateral flow assay, in four cases, using diluted plasma (10% to 12.5% v/v) resulted in the appearance of a control line alongside the visible test line. Clinical Significance: A heavy burden of A. vasorum infection resulting in angiostrongylosis should be suspected in dogs with compatible clinical signs and an invalid A. vasorum lateral flow assay result due to control failure alongside a visible test line. Repetition of the test with a diluted serum may be considered to account for the hook effect, also known as the postzone phenomenon, as a possible cause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Bleeding diathesis is a complication in dogs infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum. This retrospective study investigated clinical and laboratory haemostatic differences in A. vasorum‐positive dogs with and without signs of bleeding and impact of bleeding on survival. Materials and Methods: Demographics, type of clinical bleeding, haematocrit and a range of haemostatic tests, including thromboelastography and derived velocity curves were retrospectively registered from A. vasorum‐positive dogs. All parameters were compared between dogs with and without signs of bleeding using univariable analyses. Binomial and multinomial regression models were applied to examine specific indicators in the bleeding dogs. P‐values were false discovery rate adjusted, and adjusted P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: One hundred and eighty dogs entered the study, including 65 dogs (36.1%) presenting with bleeding diathesis. Different types of cutaneous and mucosal bleeding were the most common clinical findings. Twenty dogs presented with neurological signs associated with intracranial and intra‐spinal bleeding. One hundred and thirty‐seven dogs had haematological and/or haemostatic laboratory analyses performed. Haematocrit, platelet count, thromboelastographic angle, maximum amplitude, global clot strength, maximum rate of thrombin generation and total thrombin generation were decreased, while prothrombin time was prolonged in bleeding dogs. Survival rate of bleeding dogs was lower at hospital discharge (76.9%) and 1 month after diagnosis (66.0%) than in dogs without signs of bleeding (94.8% and 90.1% at discharge and at 1 month, respectively). Clinical Significance: Several haemostatic aberrations were detected in A. vasorum‐positive dogs with bleeding diathesis. Bleeding was identified as an important negative prognostic indicator in A. vasorum‐positive dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe two canine cases of cutaneous infection caused by Serratia marcescens. A 2‐year‐old castrated male mixed dog (Case 1) presented with multiple ulcerations on the dorsal trunk, which were observed 4 days after shampooing. A 4‐year‐old male wolf shepherd mix dog (Case 2) presented with ulceration and purulent discharge on the nasal bridge. Cytological examination of both cases revealed pyogranulomatous inflammatory cells with rod‐like infectious agents identified as S. marcescens in aerobic bacterial culture. Both patients were treated with oral antibiotics and topical chlorhexidine. Case 1 received enrofloxacin 10 mg/kg once daily for 1 week, followed by trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 15 mg/kg twice daily for 3 weeks. Case 2 received doxycycline 10 mg/kg twice daily for 4 weeks. No skin lesions were detected 2 weeks after the initial administration. The antibiotics were discontinued after a total 4 weeks of administration, and the skin lesions did not reappear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, surgical treatment and outcome of dogs diagnosed with parotid duct ectasia. Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs diagnosed with parotid duct ectasia between 2010 and 2023 at six small animal referral hospitals were retrospectively reviewed. Outcome was assessed by contacting the owners or referring veterinarians. Results: Fourteen dogs were included. Lateral facial swelling was the most common clinical presentation. CT revealed a tortuous cavitary tubular fluid‐filled structure consistent with a dilated parotid duct in all dogs. Surgical treatment included marsupialisation of the parotid duct papilla, surgical exploration of the duct alone, parotid duct marsupialisation with surgical exploration of the duct, parotidectomy or en‐bloc parotid duct resection. The aetiology of parotid duct ectasia was not established in 13 of 14 dogs. In one case, a foreign body was retrieved from the duct. No recurrence of clinical signs was noted during the follow‐up period (range 21 to 2900 days). Clinical Significance: Parotid duct ectasia should be considered for dogs with a lateralised fluctuant non‐painful tubular facial swelling. Surgical management was associated with a favourable prognosis without evidence of recurrence in all cases reported in the case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective was to report and compare the complications and recurrence rates of urethral prolapse in dogs when treated with urethropexy, resection and anastomosis or a combined surgical technique. Study design: Retrospective study. Materials and Methods: A total of 86 dogs were identified from the medical records of 10 veterinary referral hospitals from February 2012 and October 2022. Dogs were included if they underwent surgery for a urethral prolapse at first presentation. Complications were classified as minor or major based on the necessity of further surgical intervention. Complications leading to death were also considered major complications. Results: Seventy‐nine dogs were included, urethropexy (n=44), resection and anastomosis (n=27) and a combined surgical technique (n=8). Minor complications were identified in 41 of 79 dogs (51.9%): urethropexy 19 of 44 (43.2%), resection and anastomosis 18 of 27 (66.6%) and a combined surgical technique four of eight (50%). Major complications occurred in 23 dogs (29.1%), of which 21 were recurrence (26.6%). Recurrence occurred in 17 of 44 dogs following a urethropexy (38.6%), three of 27 dogs following resection and anastomosis (11.1%) and one of eight dogs treated with a combined surgical technique (12.5%). Recurrence of a urethral prolapse was significantly more likely following urethropexy in comparison to resection and anastomosis. Clinical Significance: Resection and anastomosis was associated with a lower recurrence rate in comparison to urethropexy for the surgical treatment of urethral prolapse. Based on these results, we concluded that resection and anastomosis may be preferable to urethropexy for treatment of urethral prolapse at first presentation. Urethropexy, and resection and anastomosis combined surgical technique was associated with low recurrence rate; however, further studies will be needed to clarify if it provides any benefit over resection and anastomosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 14‐year‐old male poodle weighing 7.5 kg presented due to complications after preputial urethrostomy for management of preprostatic urethral rupture. Revision surgery was performed with preputial tube‐flap urethroplasty via preputiotomy. A longitudinal flap was raised from the prepuce and anastomosed to the end of the previously cut urethra to create a neourethra and reduce tension at the urethrostomy site. Follow‐up retrograde positive contrast urethrography performed 10 days and 6 months postoperatively showed no contrast leakage from either the neourethra tube flap or new preputial urethrostomy. A follow‐up email questionnaire, based on the American Urological Association Symptom Index, was completed by the owner 6 months after surgery. The dog had excellent symptom scores, and urinated from the prepuce without difficulty in a manner resembling physiological urination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study is to retrospectively report complication and infection rates associated with the use of Penrose drains in a large population of dogs; and to compare complication and infection rates of dogs hospitalised for maintenance of their Penrose drains with those that were discharged home with their drains in place. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective search of medical records from 2014 to 2022 for dogs that had a Penrose drain placed into a wound in one institution. Our population was sub‐divided into dogs discharged home with a drain in place; dogs discharged only after drain removal; and dogs recovered part of the time in hospital and part at home (with the drain in situ). Postoperative complications were graded using the Clavien‐Dindo scale. Results: Two hundred and eight dogs were included. The overall complication rate was 40.9% (85/208), with most complications considered minor. The overall infection rate was 16.9% (35/207). Dogs discharged home with the drain in situ <24 hours after surgery (n=136) had similar complication (39.0%) and infection (16.2%) rates to dogs kept hospitalised for drain care (n=50, 42.9%, 18.4%) and dogs kept hospitalised for >24 hours but discharged with the drain in situ (n=18, 50.0%, 22.2%). Clinical Significance: Our study results show no significant influence on the complication or infection rates between dogs that were hospitalised for drain care and those discharged home with drains in situ within 24 hours of surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of hypocobalaminaemia in dogs with acute gastrointestinal diseases and to evaluate its relationship with disease severity and outcome. Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs presented for acute gastrointestinal signs that a serum cobalamin concentration measured between September 2019 and 2021 were included in this study. Hypocobalaminaemia was defined as serum cobalamin concentration <200 pmol/L, and low‐normal cobalamin was defined as serum cobalamin concentration of 200 to 295 pmol/L. Duration of clinical signs prior to presentation, Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE) fast score, length of hospitalisation and outcome were recorded. Results: Thirty‐three dogs were included. Seventeen dogs were diagnosed with acute gastrointestinal disease of unknown aetiology, seven dogs with parvoviral enteritis, three dogs with acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome and six dogs with miscellaneous diseases. The prevalence of hypocobalaminaemia in this population was 30.3% and low‐normal cobalamin concentration was detected in 18.2% of dogs. There was no statistically significant relationship between the detection of hypocobalaminaemia or low‐normal cobalamin and the duration of clinical signs before presentation, length of hospitalisation or Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation fast score on admission. Mortality rate was 3%. Clinical Significance: Hypocobalaminaemia and low‐normal cobalamin are common findings in dogs with acute gastrointestinal diseases. The therapeutic significance and potential implications for prognosis of hypocobalaminaemia in these patients requires further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Tick‐borne encephalitis virus and louping ill virus are neurotropic flaviviruses transmitted by ticks. Epidemiologically, tick‐borne encephalitis is endemic in Europe whereas louping ill's predominant geographical distribution is the UK. Rarely, these flaviviruses affect dogs causing neurological signs. This case series aimed to describe the clinical, clinicopathological, and imaging findings, as well as the outcomes in six dogs with meningoencephalitis and/or meningomyelitis caused by a flavivirus in the UK in 2021. Materials and Methods: Observational retrospective case‐series study. Clinical data were retrieved from medical records of dogs with positive serological or immunohistochemical results from three different institutions from spring to winter 2021. Results: Six dogs were included in the study. All dogs presented an initial phase of pyrexia and/or lethargy followed by progressive signs of spinal cord and/or intracranial disease. Magnetic resonance imaging showed bilateral and symmetrical lesions affecting the grey matter of the thalamus, pons, medulla oblongata, and thoracic or lumbar intumescences with none or mild parenchymal and meningeal contrast enhancement. Serology for tick‐borne encephalitis virus was positive in five dogs with the presence of seroconversion in two dogs. The viral distinction between flaviviruses was not achieved. One dog with negative serology presented positive immunohistochemistry at post‐mortem examination. Three dogs survived but presented neurological sequelae. Three dogs were euthanased due to the rapid progression of the clinical signs or static neurological signs. Clinical Significance: These cases raise awareness of the presence of tick‐borne encephalitis as an emergent disease or the increased prevalence of louping ill virus affecting dogs in the UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Proximal duodenal ulceration is often characterised by continuous bleeding, and treatment is challenging. The aims of this study were to investigate the role of vascularisation in proximal duodenal ulceration and describe clinical aspects, endoscopic features and treatment in dogs. Material and Methods: Polyurethane foam casts of gastroduodenal vessels were obtained from five dogs which had died from disorders unrelated to the digestive system. In addition, 12 dogs having proximal duodenal ulcers diagnosed by endoscopic examination were enrolled in a treatment trial. After the endoscopic diagnosis of a duodenal ulcer, all the dogs were treated medically and, in the absence of resolution, were subsequently treated by endoscopic electrocauterisation or by surgery. Results: A submucosal vascular network was evident in all the casts, with a prominent venous plexus seen exclusively in the first half inch of the duodenum. In clinical cases, on endoscopic examination, the duodenal ulcer was located at the proximal part of the duodenum, involving the mesenteric portion of the wall. The dogs not responding to medical treatment (6/12) were treated with endoscopic electrocauterisation, surgical coagulation or resection of the proximal duodenal portion. All the dogs survived until discharge, and the median survival time following discharge was 107.5 days. Clinical Significance: Based on the anatomical details highlighted in this study, the continuous bleeding observed in our patients may have been due to the prominent venous plexus evidenced at the level of the proximal duodenum. Surgical and endoscopic treatments in six patients resolved the ulcer bleeding with no recurrences noted during follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the short‐ and long‐term outcomes and complications in dogs and cats undergoing surgical treatment for viable oligotrophic and nonviable atrophic non‐unions using circular external skeletal fixation and autologous corticocancellous bone graft. Materials and Methods: In this case series, the medical records and radiographs of all dogs and cats with radius/ulna and tibia/fibula viable oligotrophic and nonviable atrophic non‐unions treated with corticocancellous bone graft and circular external skeletal fixation at two referral veterinary hospitals between 2014 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The long‐term follow‐up was 1 year or greater. Results: Thirteen dogs and six cats with 19 non‐union fractures met the inclusion criteria for the study. Eighteen non‐union fractures (94.7%) healed and one did not. Five patients (26%) had minor perioperative period complications (<3 months). The patient that did not achieve bone union underwent revision surgery with internal fixation (plate and screws) and autologous cancellous bone graft. Fifteen (78.9%) cases returned to full function and three (15.8%) cases returned to acceptable function in the long‐term follow‐up period. Clinical Significance: The use of circular external skeletal fixation associated with autologous corticocancellous bone graft for the treatment of radius/ulna and tibia/fibula atrophic/oligotrophic non‐union fractures in dogs and cats was considered successful in the majority of patients and was free of major or catastrophic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 15‐year‐old spayed female mongrel presented with anorexia and an abdominal mass. The mass originated from the gall bladder and was surgically resected along with divisionectomy of the central hepatic division. Paroxysmal hypertension and tachycardia were noted during manipulation of the mass. Following resection, arterial blood pressure decreased significantly. Histopathological analysis confirmed a diagnosis of neuroendocrine neoplasm. Immunohistochemical staining for synaptophysin and chromogranin A yielded diffuse and strong positive results, while gastrin was positive in only 10% of the cells. The preoperative elevated concentrations of catecholamine in the urinalysis showed a marked decrease after surgery. Based on these findings, the tumour was diagnosed as a functional paraganglioma of the gall bladder. The patient has undergone regular thoracic radiographs and ultrasound examinations and, until 431 days after surgery, has shown no signs of metastases or recurrences. Based on our literature search, we report the first case of functional paraganglioma of the gall bladder in a dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine changes in urolith trends and factors associated with different urolith types in dogs from the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland between 2010 and 2020. Materials and Methods: A laboratory database was searched for canine urolith submissions between 2010 and 2020. Trends in urolith composition between 2014 and 2020, and associations between patient characteristics with each urolith type were evaluated. Results: A total of 1162 submissions were included. Struvite (39.0%), calcium oxalate (27.8%) and compound (10.2%) were the most prevalent uroliths. Calcium oxalate urolith (CaOx) incidence significantly increased from 27.8% to 31.2% and that of struvite significantly decreased from 41.7% to 33.0% between 2014 and 2020. Struvite uroliths were overrepresented among females compared to males (odds ratio 8.7, 95% confidence interval 6.6 to 11.5). Males (odds ratio 9.6, 95% confidence interval 6.9 to 13.3) and dogs >7 years of age (odds ratio 4.1, 95%, confidence interval 3.0 to 5.4) were more likely to have CaOx while males (odds ratio 9.6, 95% confidence interval 5.3 to 17.8) and dogs ≤7 year of age, purine uroliths (odds ratio 3.0, 95% confidence interval 1.8 to 5.0). Incidence was higher in bichon frise (odds ratio 1.7, 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 2.4) and Yorkshire terrier (odds ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval 1.9 to 4.1) for CaOx and higher in shih‐tzu for compound uroliths (odds ratio 1.7, 95% confidence interval 1.1 to 2.7) compared to the remaining reported breeds. Clinical Significance: Factors associated with different uroliths were similar to the ones previously reported. Proportion of CaOx submissions increased and that of struvite decreased over the study period which was in agreement with the changes identified in other European countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 8‐year‐old, spayed, female poodle presented with exercise intolerance, lethargy, respiratory distress, retching, hyporexia and diarrhoea. Thoracic radiographs revealed increased opacity in the left cranial thoracic region. The fifth and sixth ribs appeared to be bulging cranially to caudally, and CT and surgical exploration confirmed the presence of a thoracic wall defect in that area. CT showed abrupt occlusion of the bronchus that branches into the left cranial lobe and consolidation of the caudal segment of left cranial lung lobe, which led to the diagnosis of lung lobe torsion. A thoracotomy was performed, the twisted lung lobe was surgically excised, and the defect in the thoracic wall was repaired. Respiratory distress gradually improved after the surgery, and there were no identified complications within the 2‐year period following the procedure. Based on our literature search, this is the first reported case of lung lobe torsion caused by a thoracic wall defect in a dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of subcutaneous administration of dexmedetomidine/atipamezole at the Governing Vessel 20 (GV20) acupuncture point compared with other administration routes (intramuscular and intravenous) in dogs presented for orthopaedic radiographs. Materials and Methods: Prospective, randomised, blinded, controlled clinical study. Sixty‐four client‐owned dogs were randomly injected with 200 μg/m2 of dexmedetomidine intramuscular (lumbar muscles) (n=20), intravenous (n=23) or subcutaneous at the GV20 point (n=21). Following radiographs, dogs received 2000 μg/m2 of atipamezole intramuscular (n=31), or subcutaneous at the GV20 point (n=27). Degree and time to sedation and recovery were assessed using a sedation scale and a Dynamic and Interactive Visual Analog Scale (DIVAS). Clinical physiological variables and adverse events were used. Statistical linear mixed‐effect models (analysis of variance) and Cox models were performed. Significance was set at P‐value <0.05. Results: Sedation was insufficient to perform orthopaedic radiographs in six dogs in the intramuscular group. The time to sedation was significantly longer, and sedation scale and DIVAS scores were significantly lower in the intramuscular group. The intravenous group had significantly higher sedation scale and DIVAS scores than the GV20 group. No significant differences were observed between the intramuscular and GV20 recovery groups, although the time effect was significantly more pronounced in the GV20 recovery group. Clinical Significance: Subcutaneous administration of dexmedetomidine and atipamezole at GV20 provided effective sedation and recovery in dogs undergoing orthopaedic radiographic studies. GV20 administration provided a clinically similar level of sedation to the intravenous route, and greater and faster sedation and similar recovery to intramuscular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document titled "The 2023 World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA): List of essential medicines for cats and dogs" provides a comprehensive list of essential medicines for the preventive care and treatment of common diseases in cats and dogs. The list was developed by the WSAVA Therapeutic Guidelines Group and underwent extensive peer-review. It includes categories such as anaesthetic, analgesic, sedative, emergency drugs, antimicrobial drugs, antifungal drugs, antiparasitic drugs, antiviral drugs, and more. It is important to adapt the list according to regional or national needs. The document also provides information on the criteria for selection of essential medicines and how to use the list effectively. Additionally, the article discusses guidelines for core and non-core vaccines for dogs and cats, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a veterinarian or qualified professional before using any substances on animals. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: To describe the treatment of four dogs with splenophrenic shunts using percutaneous shunting vessel embolisation with Amplatzer vascular plugs II and IV and provide information on their clinical outcomes. Materials and Methods: Dogs with splenophrenic shunts treated at a veterinary hospital from January 2019 to December 2022 were identified through a medical record search. Results: Six dogs with splenophrenic shunts were identified. Two dogs were excluded because they were treated with laparoscopic surgery. Four underwent percutaneous shunting vessel embolization with Amplatzer vascular plugs and were included in the case series. A sheath was placed in the left external jugular vein and a balloon catheter was advanced to the shunting vessel under fluoroscopy. Portal vein pressure was confirmed to be within an acceptable range during temporary balloon occlusion. Based on preoperative CT angiography and intraoperative contrast examination, Amplatzer vascular plugs II were selected for two dogs and IV were selected for two dogs. Under fluoroscopy, the plug was deployed into the shunting vessel, and angiography confirmed occlusion. In all cases, the increase in portal pressure after temporary occlusion was within the acceptable range, and complete occlusion of blood flow was possible with a single plug. There were no major procedure‐related complications. No dogs developed post‐ligation seizures or signs of portal hypertension. In addition, improvements in ammonia values were observed in all cases. Clinical Significance: Percutaneous splenophrenic shunt embolisation using Amplatzer vascular plugs II and IV is technically feasible in dogs, and assessed by intra‐procedure angiography, a single plug completely obstructed blood flow in all dogs. Based on the literature search, this is the first report describing Amplatzer vascular plugs for the treatment of splenophrenic shunts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the association between body mass and hypotension during general anaesthesia in dogs undergoing surgical and diagnostic procedures within a referral hospital. Materials and Methods: Retrospective evaluation of the anaesthetic records of 1789 dogs was performed. Data on signalment, anaesthetic protocol and physiological variables, including mean arterial pressure, were collected. A multivariable generalised linear model was used to identify associations between explanatory variables, including body mass, and hypotension. Results: In the population studied, increasing body mass (per 10 kg) was significantly associated with decreasing odds of hypotension (odds ratio 0.68; 95% confidence interval: 0.60 to 0.77). Additional variables associated with a decreased odds of hypotension were pre‐anaesthetic medication with alpha‐2 agonists (odds ratio 0.63; 95% confidence interval 0.48 to 0.82) and increased body temperature (per 1°C) during general anaesthesia (odds ratio 0.77; 95% confidence interval 0.67 to 0.88). Brachycephaly (odds ratio 1.72; 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 2.38), ASA physical status classification >3 (odds ratio 2.03; 95% confidence interval 1.16 to 3.56), undergoing a surgical procedure (versus diagnostic) (odds ratio 1.57; 95% confidence interval 1.10 to 2.23) and bradycardia (odds ratio 1.37; 95% confidence interval 1.05 to 1.80) were independently associated with increased odds of hypotension. Clinical significance: Dogs of lower body mass and brachycephalic breeds may be at higher risk of hypotension during general anaesthesia or alternatively represent subpopulations in which accurate blood pressure measurement presents a greater challenge. Monitoring blood pressure accurately in these groups requires particular attention and provisions for treating hypotension should be readily accessible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate short‐term outcome and complications following the use of the cranial superficial epigastric axial pattern flap to reconstruct cutaneous defects in dogs. Materials and Methods: Medical records from dogs undergoing reconstructive surgery between 2008 and 2022 by means of cranial superficial epigastric axial pattern flap were reviewed. Data on signalment, reason for reconstruction, defect size, flap healing, post‐operative complications and need for revision surgery were collected. Results: Six dogs were included in the study. Indications for reconstruction included neoplasia (4/6), skin necrosis due to vehicular trauma (1/6) and dog bite (1/6). Postoperative complications occurred in 50% of the patients and included seroma (1/6), bruising (2/6) and necrosis of the distal portion of the flap (2/6), with two dogs developing concurrent complications. One dog required open wound management and additional surgery. Overall outcome was scored excellent in three, good in two, and fair in one dog. Clinical Significance: Despite the relatively high complication rate, most of the complications were deemed minor and could be managed conservatively. Eventually, all wounds healed completely and only one flap required revision surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Metabolic alkalosis, although uncommon in small animals, has been previously associated with gastrointestinal obstructions. Depending on the population and disease process evaluated, previous prevalence of metabolic alkalosis is reported as ranging from 2% to 45% in canine patients. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic alkalosis and other acid–base and electrolyte disorders in a cohort of dogs with a confirmed upper gastrointestinal obstruction. Materials and Methods: Electronic medical records were reviewed to identify dogs who presented for vomiting with evidence of an upper gastrointestinal obstruction from January 2015 to October 2021. Patients were enrolled only if a preoperative venous blood gas was obtained and analysed in house. Traditional acid–base analysis was utilised to determine an acid–base status before relieving the obstruction. When available, post‐operative venous acid–base status was determined within 24 hours after surgery, and compared to preoperative results. Results: A total of 115 dogs were included in the study. Twenty‐five out of 115 (22%) dogs displayed either a simple metabolic alkalosis or a mixed acid–base disturbance before surgery. Twenty‐seven out of 115 dogs (37%) had a normal acid–base status at entry. Seventy‐one dogs had pre‐ and post‐operative venous blood gas results available. Metabolic alkalosis was resolved in nearly all patients post‐operatively, with no patients displaying a simple metabolic alkalosis. A mixed metabolic acidosis and respiratory alkalosis was the most common condition post‐operatively, found in 25 of 71 (35%) dogs. Severe derangements of electrolytes were infrequent preoperatively (3/115; 2.6%). A majority of patients in this study exhibited hypokalaemia (64.4%), hypochloraemia (72.8%) and hyponatraemia (77.4%) on preoperative venous blood gases. Venous pH, PvCO2, bicarbonate and base excess were significantly higher preoperatively when compared to the post‐operative results. Clinical Significance: This study found the prevalence of pre‐operative metabolic alkalosis in dogs with a documented upper gastrointestinal obstruction to be lower than previously reported. Surgical or endoscopic alleviation of the upper gastrointestinal obstruction resulted in resolution of metabolic alkalosis in nearly all patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe the change in the caudal vena cava to aorta ratio (CVC:Ao) ratio during fluid resuscitation of circulatory shock in dogs and compare these results with those of the physical examination and blood lactate. Materials and Methods: Perfusion parameters and blood lactate were recorded at admission. An abdominal point‐of‐care ultrasound protocol was performed, during which the caudal vena cava to aorta ratio was measured on the spleno‐renal view. Measurements were performed within 5 minutes before and after a 10 mL/kg crystalloid fluid bolus. Investigators were not blinded to therapeutic interventions. Results: Twenty‐nine dogs with physical signs of circulatory shock were enrolled. Caudal vena cava to aorta ratios were below reference interval in 28 of 29 dogs. After bolus administration, median caudal vena cava diameter increased by 0.14 cm (0.69 to 0.83 cm) and median aorta diameter increased by 0.03 cm (0.87 to 0.90 cm) and caudal vena cava to aorta ratio returned to within reference range in 65% of dogs (13/29). Bolus administration was associated with an increase in median caudal vena cava to aorta ratio of 0.10 (95% CI:0.05 to 0.16, P=0.0005). Blood lactate did not change significantly. Heart rate and capillary refill time decreased significantly after fluid bolus (heart rate: estimate=−19 bpm, 95% CI:−30 to −8, P=0.002; capillary refill time: estimate=−1.0 s, 95% CI:−1.3 to −0.7, P < 0.0001). Clinical Significance: In this population of dogs with circulatory shock, the caudal vena cava to aorta ratio significantly increased after a fluid bolus. Future studies that implement blinding of the outcome assessors are warranted to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to describe a perioperative protocol for dogs recovered from anaesthesia with the owners and discharged from the hospital on the same day after surgical management of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and to determine whether implementation of this protocol was associated with reduced incidence of complications compared with standard anaesthesia recovery and 24 hours hospitalisation. Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs that underwent brachycephalic obstructive airway surgery over two consecutive years (June 2017 to May 2019) were reviewed retrospectively. Signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic findings, surgical procedures and postoperative respiratory complications were recorded. Data were compared using the chi‐squared or Fisher's exact tests. Results: Sixty‐three dogs met the inclusion criteria for the study. Forty‐two dogs underwent owner‐assisted recovery and 21 dogs standard recovery. No statistical difference was found between groups in age, breed, gender, severity of respiratory or gastrointestinal clinical signs and surgical techniques employed. The incidence of postoperative complications was higher in dogs that received standard recovery (28%) compared to dogs recovered with the owners (2%). None of the dogs recovered with the owners and discharged the same day required veterinary assistance after discharge from the hospital. Clinical Significance: Corrective surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome was associated with lower postoperative respiratory complications when dogs were discharged on the same day after recovery with the owners. Owner‐assisted recovery and early discharge are possible and safe and may decrease the incidence of postoperative complications. However, other unmeasured factors may have contributed to the lower complication rate in dogs recovered with the owners during the course of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 8‐year‐old male neutered American English Coonhound was presented for a 2‐day history of increased respiratory effort and rate with an occasional cough. Thoracic radiographs noted pleural effusion, which was chylous based on cytological and chemical evaluation. The dog also had a 2‐year history of a slow growing fatty mass in the right cervical region. A CT scan confirmed the large cervical fat attenuating mass extending from the base of the skull to the cranial thorax and right axillary region with compression of vascular structures. Severe bilateral effusion and secondary pulmonary atelectasis was noted within the thoracic cavity. It was elected to surgically remove the cervical mass and place a PleuralPort within the thoracic cavity. The mass was diagnosed as a lipoma and its removal led to rapid and complete resolution of chylothorax. Based on the literature search, this is the first case report of chylothorax secondary to a cervical mass or subcutaneous lipoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Epilepsy is a chronic disorder, and approximately 25% to 30% of dogs with epilepsy are refractory to anti‐epileptic drugs. As increased activity has been shown to reduce seizure frequency in people with epilepsy, the goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between deviation from baseline activity and seizure incidence in dogs with epilepsy. Materials and Methods: Activity and seizure data were obtained using a canine activity monitoring device and owner observed seizure logs in 53 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy receiving anti‐epileptic drugs. Each dog's activity was individually measured, and 14‐day baseline averages were calculated. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate how an observed increase in activity, ranging from 0% to 50%, above baseline activity, affects the incidence of a seizure in the following 24 hours. Results: A total of 8540 activity days and 365 seizure days were used in the final analysis with an average of 11 seizures per dog (range 0 to 30 seizures). Seizure incidence was significantly more likely when activity was 10%, 20%, or 30% above baseline activity in the 24 hours before the day of a documented seizure [95% confidence interval (1.02 to 1.60), P=0.033; 95% confidence interval (1.08 to 1.80), P=0.010; 95% confidence interval (1.13 to 2.07), P=0.005, respectively]. However, when activity levels were 40% and 50% above baseline, the effect diminished (95% confidence interval (0.74 to 1.70), P=0.532; or 95% confidence interval (0.56 to 1.66), P=0.988, respectively). Clinical Significance: Differently than in humans, this study demonstrated that a mild to moderate increase in activity resulted in a higher seizure incidence within 24 hours in dogs with epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To quantify the physical activity levels in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture before and after lateral fabellar suture stabilisation surgery. Materials and Methods: Seventeen dogs (mean weight, 12.3±5.1 kg) with unilateral cranial cruciate ligament rupture were fitted with an accelerometer for seven consecutive days at four different time points: before surgery (T0), one (T1), three (T3) and six (T6) months after surgery. The total activity and times spent in sedentary activity, light to moderate activity and vigorous activity were recorded by the accelerometer, and preoperative and postoperative data were compared. At all time points, dogs underwent clinical evaluations (lameness score, stifle pain score and thigh circumference) and their owners were asked to respond to questionnaires to subjectively score the physical activity and quality of life of the dogs. Results: At the four time points, the dogs spent between 21.2 and 21.4 hours on sedentary behaviour, 2.3 and 2.5 hours performing light to moderate activity, and 13 to 15 minutes performing vigorous activity. There was no increase in physical activity variables or decrease in sedentary behaviour over time. Lameness scores, pain score and dogs' quality of life improved significantly during the postoperative period. At T6, 17 (100%) of 17 dogs presented no lameness, 16 (94%) of 17 dogs presented no stifle pain, 16 (94%) of 17 owners rated the quality of life as very good and excellent, and 16 (100%) of 16 owners reported a total return to normal activity levels. Clinical Significance: The clinical recovery after extracapsular stabilisation of the stifle joint was not associated with a spontaneous increase in physical activity or a decrease in sedentary behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To review long‐term outcomes of dogs with acute oropharyngeal stick injuries managed with rigid endoscopy at a UK referral centre. Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis and follow‐up with referring veterinary surgeons and owners of patients treated between 2010 and 2020. A medical record search was performed and data regarding signalment, clinical presentation, treatment and long‐term outcomes were recorded. Results: Sixty‐six dogs with acute oropharyngeal stick injury were identified and 46 (70.0%) of these had endoscopy of the wound. The dogs were of various breeds, ages (median=3 years; range 0.6 to 11 years) and weights (median=20.4 kg; range 7.7 to 38.4 kg) and 58.7% of patients were male. The median time from injury to referral was 1 day (range 2 hours to 7 days). Patients were anaesthetised, and injury tracts were explored using 0° and 30° forward‐oblique, 2.7 mm diameter, 18 cm length rigid endoscopes with a corresponding 14.5 French sheath using saline infusion via gravity. All foreign material that could be grasped was removed using forceps. Tracts were flushed with saline and reinspected to confirm removal of all visible foreign material. Out of 40 dogs with long‐term follow‐up, 38 (95.0%) had no major long‐term complications. The remaining two dogs developed cervical abscessation after endoscopy, one of which resolved after repeat endoscopy and the other resolved after open surgery. Clinical Significance: Long‐term follow‐up of dogs with acute oropharyngeal stick injury managed with rigid endoscopy showed an excellent outcome in 95.0% of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two dogs presented with progressive, expansile and invasive lesions on a hind paw. Case 1, a 10‐year‐old female Shetland sheepdog had diffusive and aggressive‐looking lesions on the middle digits of the left hind paw. Radiographic examination showed invasion into and destruction of the underlying bone. A malignant tumour was suspected initially; however, histological features of atypical vascular proliferations without mitotic activity were consistent with progressive angiomatosis. Case 2, an 11‐year‐old female English springer spaniel presented with similar lesions in the same toes, also involving bone. Progressive angiomatosis was suspected clinically, as tumour cells were not detected by cytology and screening did not detect metastatic disease. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis. Progressive angiomatosis is an uncommon non‐malignant condition which should be considered as a differential diagnosis for radiographically lytic digital lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the association between plasma N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentration and glomerular filtration rate in dogs. Materials and Methods: Dogs were classified into four categories by bodyweight. Dogs were divided into four groups (Groups 1 to 4) based on glomerular filtration rate estimates using plasma iohexol clearance per bodyweight category. Generalised linear models were built to explore the relationship between plasma N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentration and glomerular filtration rate and the effect of confounders on plasma N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentration. Results: Fifty‐three dogs were included (Group 1, 25; Group 2, seven; Group 3, five; and Group 4, 16). The medians (interquartile range) N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations for Groups 1 to 4 were 7224 pg/mL (4766 to 10,254 mg/dL), 8958 pg/mL (4935 to 11,271 mg/dL), 9280 pg/mL (9195 to 10,384 mg/dL) and 12,683 pg/mL (9133 to 19,217 mg/dL), respectively. Group 4, estimated to have the highest reduction in glomerular filtration rate, had a higher plasma N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentration than Groups 1 to 3. Based on the final generalised linear model, influencing factors for plasma N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentration were plasma iohexol clearance (−0.136; 95% confidence interval, −0.227 to −0.046) and bodyweight (−0.058; 95% confidence interval, −0.098 to −0.018). Clinical Significance: N‐terminal pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide concentration is associated with the glomerular filtration rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To review clinical characteristics, treatment, outcome and prognostic factors in dogs with solid cancer‐bearing bone metastases. Materials and Methods: Records were reviewed from dogs with histologically‐proven solid cancer and bone metastases. Clinicopathologic variables, bone metastases characteristics and skeletal‐related events were recorded. Endpoints were time to bone metastases and survival. Results: Fifty dogs were included, 20 of them with synchronous and 30 of them with metachronous bone metastases. In the latter group, median time to diagnosis of bone metastases was 210 days (range, 30 to 1835). Most common primary cancer locations included mammary gland (n=6), spleen (n=5) and tonsil (n=5). Most common histotypes were carcinoma (n=32) and hemangiosarcoma (n=10). Nineteen dogs had multiple bones involvement, with humeri and vertebrae more commonly affected. Twenty‐four dogs received antitumoural therapy, five symptomatic treatment and 21 were not treated. Overall median survival after bone metastases diagnosis was 30 days (range, 11 to 49); 83% of dogs died because of skeletal‐related events. Lack of antitumoural therapy was significantly associated with shorter survival (hazard ratio: 2.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.3 to 5.6) and with increased risk of skeletal‐related death (hazard ratio: 3.3; 95% confidence interval: 1.4 to 7.4). Dogs with endocrine/neuroendocrine tumours (odds ratio: 8.8; 95% confidence interval: 1.2 to 63.9), without appendicular metastases (odds ratio: 5.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.0 to 25.8), without extra‐skeletal metastases (odds ratio: 5.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1 to 24.5) and receiving antitumoural therapy (odds ratio: 14.8; 95% confidence interval: 1.7 to 131.4) had an increased chance of surviving more than 100 days. Clinical Significance: Bone metastases in dogs with solid cancers are associated with poor prognosis and a high risk of skeletal‐related events. Treatment appears to have an impact on survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT) is a contagious cancer spread by transfer of living cancer cells. Occasional cases are observed in the UK in dogs imported from endemic regions. Here, we report a case of imported canine transmissible venereal tumour that was transmitted to a second dog within the UK. Transmission of genital canine transmissible venereal tumour occurred despite neutered status of the second dog. The aggressive course of disease in both cases, which included metastasis, resistance to therapeutic interventions and ultimate euthanasia of both dogs, is described. The diagnosis of canine transmissible venereal tumour was made using a combination of cytology, histology, immunohistochemistry and PCR to detect the LINE‐MYC rearrangement. Practitioners unfamiliar with canine transmissible venereal tumour are reminded of this disease of concern, particularly when imported dogs are placed in multi‐dog households, irrespective of neuter status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Evaluation of haem dipstick pad, urine protein, urine pH and urine protein:creatinine ratio results as a marker of bacteriuria in dogs and cats with inactive urine sediment. Materials and Methods: Cats and dogs with contemporaneous urine dipstick, microscopic sediment analysis and microbiological culture and sensitivity results over a four‐year period (2016 to 2020) were retrospectively identified. Dogs and cats with active urine sediments (at least five erythrocytes and/or five leukocytes per high‐power field) and/or spermaturia were excluded. Association between urine pH, haem dipstick result, protein dipstick result and urine protein:creatinine ratio with bacteriuria were evaluated using binary logistic regression analysis. Likelihood ratios for bacteriuria were calculated at different diagnostic thresholds. Results: A total of 668 and 169 dog and cat urine samples were included. Of these, 166 dogs (25%) had a positive urine culture, whilst only 29 cats (17%) had a positive urine culture. In dogs and cats, any positive haem dipstick result was significantly associated with bacteriuria, although only a ≥4+ haem positive result in dogs was associated with a small increase in the likelihood of a positive urine culture, and positive likelihood ratios did not support the use of haem dipstick results as a screening test for bacteriuria in cats. pH, urine protein:creatinine ratio and protein dipstick results were not associated with bacteriuria. Clinical Significance: Our findings provide proof of concept that haem dipstick pad results in dogs with inactive sediment and without spermaturia might be useful as a screening test for bacteriuria, although further studies are required to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 8‐year‐old female spayed Labrador retriever was presented for the evaluation of severe weight loss 10 weeks after starting an immunomodulatory treatment, including prednisolone and cyclosporine, for meningoencephalitis of unknown origin. Plasma biochemistry analysis showed mild to moderate increases in liver enzyme activities and a moderate decrease in urea concentration. Abdominal ultrasound revealed mild hepatomegaly and a large gall bladder with unremarkable wall and content. Cholecystocentesis was performed and bile was examined both cytologically and by molecular methods, which revealed the presence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi. Treatment was initiated with albendazole but was discontinued due to the development of severe neutropenia. The medical management was subsequently changed to fenbendazole and the dog made a complete recovery. This report describes the first case of clinical manifestation and successful treatment of biliary E. bieneusi infection in a dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the conservative management and outcome of gastrointestinal metallic sharp‐pointed straight foreign bodies in dogs and cats. Materials and Methods: Clinical records of dogs and cats presented to a university teaching hospital between 2003 and 2021 with gastrointestinal metallic sharp‐pointed straight foreign bodies (e.g. needles, pins, nails) were reviewed. Conservative management was defined as leaving the foreign body in situ. Cases were excluded if the foreign body was identified outside of the gastrointestinal tract (including oropharynx and oesophagus) or if it was removed by endoscopy or surgery as the first treatment choice. Patient signalment, presenting complaint, foreign body location, treatment, complications, gastrointestinal transit time, length of hospitalisation and outcome were recorded. Results: A total of 17 cases (13 dogs and four cats) were included in the study, being treated with primary conservative therapeutic approach (11) or following failure of endoscopy (two), surgery (three) or both (one). Clinical signs associated with the foreign body were reported in three (17.6%) cases. Conservative management was successful in 15 (88.2%) cases, with no complications reported. Patients were clinically and radiographically monitored with variable supportive care. In two (11.8%) cases, surgery was subsequently performed as the foreign body failed to progress on repeated radiographs after 24 hours. Mean foreign body gastrointestinal transit time for patients treated conservatively was 59.2 (±31.4) hours. All patients survived to discharge. Clinical Significance: Conservative management is a treatment option for clinically stable cats and dogs with metallic sharp‐pointed straight gastrointestinal foreign bodies in the absence of perforation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Transtubular potassium gradient has never been evaluated in the diagnosis of primary hypoadrenocorticism in dogs. The objective of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic utility of transtubular potassium gradient for the diagnosis of primary hypoadrenocorticism in dogs with serum K+ > 5.5 mol/L. Materials and Methods: Cross‐sectional study including dogs with primary hypoadrenocorticism and dogs with other disease. Differences in signalment and laboratory parameters between groups were assessed by binary logistic regression modelling. Variables significantly associated with primary hypoadrenocorticism were evaluated for their diagnostic accuracy of this condition by receiver operator characteristic curve analysis and by multivariable logistic regression analysis, respectively. Results: Dogs with primary hypoadrenocorticism (n=39) were significantly younger than hyperkalemic dogs without primary hypoadrenocorticism (n=41). Moreover they had higher serum and urinary concentrations of Na+ and Na+:K+, but lower transtubular potassium gradient than hyperkalemic dogs without hypoadrenocorticism. Serum Na+ (sNa+) had the highest diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.87, 95% confidence interval, 0.78 to 0.96), followed by the transtubular potassium gradient (AUC: 0.81, 0.72 to 0.91), however the accuracy of the two AUCs was not statistically different. The transtubular potassium gradient‐sNa+ additive index (i.e. transtubular potassium gradient+sNa+/10) had a greater accuracy (AUC: 0.88, 0.79 to 0.94) than transtubular potassium gradient or sNa+, although it was not statistically superior to the latter. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that transtubular potassium gradient (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.51, 0.3 to 0.84), sNa+ (aOR: 0.86, 0.78 to 0.95) and spayed female (aOR: 24.96, 2.32 to 267.66) were associated with primary hypoadrenocorticism. Clinical Significance: Transtubular potassium gradient‐sNa+ additive index can contribute to decision‐making on diagnosis of primary hypoadrenocorticism in dogs presenting with hyperkalaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To report the protocol, efficacy and adverse events in dogs receiving nightly nitrofurantoin therapy as antimicrobial prophylaxis for recurrent urinary tract infections. Materials and Methods: Retrospective case series of dogs prescribed nitrofurantoin as prophylaxis for recurrent urinary tract infections. Data on urological history, diagnostic investigation, protocol, adverse events and efficacy (through serial urine cultures) were extracted from medical records. Results: Thirteen dogs were included. Before therapy, dogs had a median of 3 (range 3 to 7) positive urine cultures in the past year. In all but one dog, standard antimicrobial therapy was given before starting the nightly nitrofurantoin. The nightly nitrofurantoin was then prescribed at a median dose of 4.1 mg/kg orally every 24 hours for a median of 166 days (range 44 to 1740). The median infection‐free interval on therapy was 268 days (95% confidence interval: 165 to undefined). Eight dogs had no positive urine cultures while on therapy. Of these, five (three which discontinued and two which remained on nitrofurantoin) had no return of clinical signs or bacteriuria at time of last follow‐up evaluation or death, and three had suspected or confirmed bacteriuria 10 to 70 days after discontinuation. Five dogs developed bacteriuria on therapy, four of which were nitrofurantoin‐resistant Proteus spp. Most other adverse events were minor; none were considered likely caused by the drug on causality assessment. Clinical Significance: Based on this small study group, nightly nitrofurantoin appears well tolerated and might be efficacious prophylaxis for recurrent urinary tract infections in dogs. Infection with nitrofurantoin‐resistant Proteus spp. was a common reason for treatment failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]