FOOT INJURIES IN MICHIGAN, USA, GRAY WOLVES (CANIS LUPUS), 1992-2014.

The range of gray wolves (Canis lupus) in the contiguous US is expanding. Research and monitoring to support population recovery and management often involves capture via foothold traps. A population-level epidemiologic assessment of the effect of trap injuries on wolf survival remains needed to inform management. We describe the baseline rate, type, and severity of foot injuries of wolves born 1992-2013 in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, evaluate the reliability of field-scoring trap-related injuries, and the effect of injuries on wolf survival. We assessed foot injuries by physical and radiographic exam at postmortem and/or time of capture for 351 wolves using the International Organization for Standardization 10990-5 standard and the effects of injuries, sex, age, previous capture and body condition on survival using proportional hazards regression. We used ordinal regression to evaluate epidemiologic associations between sex, age, previous capture, body condition, cause of death and injury severity. Most wolves (53%) experienced no physically or radiographically discernable foot injuries over their lifetimes. Among those wolves that did experience injuries, 33% scored as mild. Foot injuries had little epidemiologically discernable effect on survival rates. Wolves with higher foot trauma scores did experience an increased risk of dying, but the magnitude of the increase was modest. Most limb injuries occurred below the carpus or tarsus, and scoring upper-limb injuries added little predictive information to population-level epidemiologic measures of survival and injury severity. There was little association between injury severity and cause of death. Based on necropsy exams, previous trap injuries likely contributed to death in only four wolves (1.1%). Our results suggest that injuries resulting from foothold traps are unlikely to be a limiting factor in recovery and ongoing survival of the Michigan gray wolf population.

Long-term clinical and radiographic results after lag screw ostheosynthesis of short incomplete proximal sagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx in horses not used for racing.

OBJECTIVE: To determine long term outcomes of nonracing equines athletes treated for short incomplete proximal sagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx (SIPSFP1) by lag screw fixation. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Thirty-one horses. METHODS: Medical records from horses with an SIPSFP1 (2008-2014) were reviewed. Long-term (≥12 months) outcomes were assessed with telephone interviews and clinical and radiographic examinations. RESULTS: Warmblood was the predominant breed in cases included in the study. Among horses with long-term interview information, 27 of 31 returned to previous athletic activity level. In total, 15 horses with 19 fractures had clinical and radiographic assessment after a minimum of 12 months. Among those, nine of 15 horses were sound at the trot, and six of 15 were mildly lame. Complete radiographic healing was confirmed in six limbs, and the facture line was evident in 13. The position of the proximal screw was not associated with radiographic fracture healing or return to soundness. CONCLUSION: Most horses treated for SIPSFP1 with lag screw fixation returned to previous activity levels, although radiographic fracture healing remained incomplete 12 months or more after surgery. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Lag screw fixation is a valid treatment for horses not used for racing that are experiencing an SIPSFP1 and results in a high rate of return to intended use, although complete radiographic fracture healing cannot be expected.

Surgical Reconstruction of the Metatarsal Pad Using Nonweight-Bearing Surfaces of the Footpads in a Dog.

A 9 yr old mixed-breed dog weighing 6.3 kg was presented with degloving injuries and multiple lacerations on the footpads of both hindlimbs. After amputation of the left hindlimb and debridement of the necrotic footpads on the right hindlimb, the remaining pads were insufficient for ambulation. The complete carpal pads and the peripheral, nonweight-bearing portions of the second and fifth digital pads of both forelimbs were harvested for pad grafting. All segments were sutured on the cutaneous trunci muscle in the predetermined location of the right abdominal wall for the pouch flap. After detaching the flap, the grafted segments were gradually strengthened, and the dog was able to regain ambulation. When considering pad grafting, the entire carpal pad and crescent-shaped segments from the nonweight-bearing surfaces of digital pads are excellent candidates for free grafts without compromising the ambulation of other limbs.

Welfare of layers housed in small furnished cages on Danish commercial farms: the condition of keel bone, feet, plumage and skin.

1. An on-farm assessment of keel bone, feet, plumage and skin damage was conducted in layers in small furnished cages to evaluate welfare implications. 2. Thirteen farms participated, all housing Lohmann LSL layers in systems allowing 8 or 10 hens per cage. 3. Each flock was visited at three different ages: 32, 62 and 77 weeks. During each visit, 100 hens were examined for keel bone fractures and deviations, plumage damage, body wounds, foot pad lesions, bumble feet, missing toes and toe wounds. 4. A deterioration with age of the condition of the plumage and keel bone was found (P < 0.001). At 77 weeks of age, 16% of the birds had poor plumage, and 43% of the birds had keel bone damage. In contrast, foot pad lesions were most prevalent at 32 weeks of age (13%), whereas the other foot injuries and body wounds remained at a relatively low level throughout the three ages examined. 5. Prevention of damage to the keel bone, plumage and foot pads should therefore be considered when aiming to improve welfare of laying hens housed in small furnished cages.

A Retrospective Survey of Injuries Occurring in Dogs and Handlers Participating in Canicross.

OBJECTIVES: Canicross is a popular canine and human cross-country sport. The purpose of this study was to identify the most common injuries, their severity, risk factors and the recovery. METHODS: An internet-based retrospective survey design was used to examine the characteristics of injuries, demographic and competition information and associations with injury rate. RESULTS: A total of 160 surveys were received and indicated that at the time of the survey 21.9% of dogs (35/160) had experienced at least one injury. Lacerations, abrasions and punctures were the most common injury type (22/49), most frequently occurring in the footpads of the forelimb (13/16). The majority of dogs (38/49) recovered from their injuries. Sixty-nine out of 147 of the human handlers experienced injuries while competing; ankle injuries (25/69) and bruises, cuts and grazes (20/69) were the most common injuries. Risk factors for injuries were being a purebred Labrador, dogs running with another dog and additionally competing in agility. CONCLUSIONS: Labradors, dogs running with another dog and dogs also participating in agility competitions were at higher risk for injury. Injuries of the footpads of the forelimb were the most common injuries in dogs. Most dogs had a complete recovery from their injuries. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This is the first study that gives us insight into injuries occurring in dogs and handlers competing in canicross. This will help making recommendations for this sport as well as enable veterinarians to understand the risks and injuries.

A survey of risk factors for digit injuries among dogs training and competing in agility events.

OBJECTIVE To identify potential risk factors for digit injuries in dogs training and competing in agility events. DESIGN Internet-based, retrospective, cross-sectional survey. ANIMALS 1,081 dogs training or competing in agility events. PROCEDURES Data were collected for eligible animals via retrospective surveys distributed electronically to handlers of dogs participating in agility-related activities. Variables evaluated included demographic (handlers) and signalment (dogs) information, physical characteristics of dogs, and injury characteristics. A separate survey of dogs competing in similar agility-related activities but without digit injuries was also administered. Multivariable logistic regression was used to develop a model for assessment of risk factors. RESULTS Data were collected from 207 agility dogs with digit injuries and 874 agility dogs without digit injuries. Factors associated with significantly increased odds of injury included Border Collie breed (OR, 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5 to 3.3), long nails (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.3 to 4.5), absence of front dewclaws (OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3 to 2.6), and greater weight-to-height ratio (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.0). Odds of injury decreased with increasing age of the dog (OR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.76 to 0.86). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results should be cautiously interpreted because of potential respondent and recall bias and lack of review of medical records. Nevertheless, results suggested that retaining healthy dewclaws, maintaining lean body mass, and trimming nails short for training and competition may decrease the likelihood of digit injuries. Research to investigate training practices, obstacle construction specifcations, and surface considerations for dogs competing in agility activities is indicated.

Escalator-related injuries in 30 dogs (2007-2014).

OBJECTIVE: To describe a population of dogs affected by escalator-related injuries, and to characterize the types of injuries sustained and describe treatment administered. DESIGN: Retrospective study from March 2007 to November 2014. SETTING: Large urban referral and emergency facility. ANIMALS: Thirty client-owned dogs presenting with injuries acquired while riding an escalator. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: All injuries in this study occurred secondary to entrapment of 1 or more paws in the moving parts of an escalator; 39 paws were injured in total. The median body weight of the patients in this study was 4.25 kg, with 73.3% of the patients weighing less than 10 kg. Fifteen patients (50.0%) were treated surgically, the remainder were managed conservatively. Eight patients (26.7%) underwent digit or partial-digit amputation. Of the conservatively managed patients, 10 were treated with bandaging of the wounds. Antimicrobials, opiate analgesics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were administered in both surgically and conservatively managed patients. CONCLUSIONS: While uncommon, escalator accidents can result in significant injury to dogs. Measures can be taken to prevent these injuries from occurring, whether through client education, dog training, structural modifications in the escalators themselves, or avoidance of escalators. In the present study, the survival rate of dogs injured on escalators was 100%.

Distribution, Complications, and Outcome of Footpad Injuries in Pet and Military Working Dogs.

This study reports the findings of 120 traumatic pad injuries in pet and military dogs. Most dogs (68%) presented with a laceration to a thoracic limb footpad, and one-third of dogs were middle-aged castrated males. Metacarpal pads were most commonly injured. Short-term complications were noted in 27% of dogs. No long-term complications were identified. No disability from pad injury was present at the completion of healing. Concurrent injuries to adjacent structures were uncommon and did not affect outcome. Dogs with full-thickness pad lacerations were at greater risk for major short-term complications compared to dogs with partial-thickness pad lacerations (odds ratio, 7.27; P = .001). Military working dogs with full-thickness pad lacerations were at greater risk for major short-term complications than pet dogs with a similar injury. When major complications developed in dogs with full-thickness pad injuries, time to final healing was significantly longer (by a median of 12 days). The partial-thickness pad lesions healed uneventfully regardless of whether they were bandaged, surgically repaired, or left to heal by second intention. Suture repair and bandaging of full-thickness lesions could not be shown to either decrease the risk for complications or improve healing. Future work should focus on establishing standards for footpad treatment to reduce complications.

Is there an association between clinical features, response to diagnostic analgesia and radiological findings in horses with a magnetic resonance imaging diagnosis of navicular disease or other injuries of the podotrochlear apparatus?

Previous descriptions of the clinical features of navicular disease occurred before the widespread use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allowed a more definitive diagnosis of foot pain. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical features of horses with lesions of the podotrochlear apparatus with those with other causes of foot pain. It was hypothesised that primary navicular bone disease would be associated with more advanced radiological findings than other diagnoses. A retrospective study was performed of all horses examined at a referral centre with a definitive diagnosis of foot pain based on MRI ± post-mortem examination. Clinical examination findings, response to diagnostic analgesia and radiological grading of the navicular bone were compared among five diagnosis groups: (1) primary navicular bone pathology (NB); (2) lesions of the collateral sesamoidean ligament and/or distal sesamoidean impar ligament (CSL + DSIL); (3) primary deep digital flexor tendon injury (DDFT); (4) navicular bone pathology and other lesions of the podotrochlear apparatus ± DDFT (PTA) and (5) Other. There were 702 horses (NB, 62; CSL + DSIL, 180; DDFT, 69; PTA, 92; Other, 299). Horses with PTA injuries were more frequently unilaterally lame than other groups (P = 0.04). Horses with DDFT injury were more likely to exhibit pain on turning than other groups (P <0.01). There were no associations between response to diagnostic analgesia and diagnostic group, and no association between radiological grade and diagnostic group. Clinical examination findings generally did not discriminate between diseases of the PTA and other causes of foot pain. Overall radiological scores of the navicular bone did not accurately predict navicular bone pathology.

Incidence of palmar process fractures of the distal phalanx and association with front hoof conformation in foals.

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Recent studies indicate a high prevalence of fractures of the palmar processes (PP) of the distal phalanx in foals. However, information on the prevalence of such fractures in different breeds and the effect of predisposing factors, such as hoof conformation, is limited. OBJECTIVES: To examine the prevalence of distal phalanx PP fractures in foals and report the relationship of distal limb and hoof conformation with the prevalence of fracture. STUDY DESIGN: Longitudinal study. METHODS: Front hooves of 19 Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse and Arabian foals were examined. Digital radiographic and photographic images of the distal aspect of the forelimbs were taken at ∼2.5 month intervals. Five radiographic projections of each limb were as follows: lateromedial; horizontal beam dorsopalmar; dorso60°proximal-palmarodistal oblique; dorso60°proximo45°lateral-palmarodistomedial oblique; and dorso60°proximo45°medial-palmarodistolateral oblique. The relationship between measurements and the prevalence of fractures was assessed by 3-way ANOVA. RESULTS: Fractures were found in 74% (n = 14) of the foals during the study period. The prevalences of lateral PP and medial PP fractures were not significantly different. Several hoof measurements were associated with PP fractures. Longer dorsal length of the distal phalanx was associated with medial PP fractures, while smaller lateral angle and shorter lateral palmar length were associated with a higher prevalence of lateral PP fractures. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed a high prevalence of PP fractures in young foals, particularly in Thoroughbred foals. The hoof conformation may be one of the contributory factors to PP fractures in foals.

Pedicle digital pad transfer and negative pressure wound therapy for reconstruction of the weight-bearing surface after complete digital loss in a dog.

A young Labrador Retriever was presented for treatment of severe distal hindlimb necrosis caused by bandage ischemia. During digit amputation at the metatarsophalangeal joints, the third and fourth digital pads were salvaged and transferred to the metatarsal stump to create a weight-bearing surface. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) was utilized for flap immobilization and to promote granulation tissue in the remaining wound defect. Sturdy adherence of the digital pads was achieved after only four days. The skin defect healed completely by second intention and the stump was epithelialized with a thin pad after three months. At the nine month follow-up examination, the stump had a thick hyperkeratinized pad. The dog walked and ran without any apparent signs of discomfort and compensated for the loss of limb length by extending the stifle and tarsocrural joints. Despite a challenging wound in a difficult anatomical location, digital pad flap transfer and NPWT proved successful in restoring long-term ambulation in an active large breed dog.

Using an alternate light source to detect electrically singed feathers and hair in a forensic setting.

Mortality due to electrical injury in wildlife may occur in the form of lightning strike or power line contact. Evidence of electrical contact may be grossly obvious, with extensive singeing, curling, and blackening of feathers, fur, or skin. Occasionally, changes may be subtle, owing to lower current or reduced conductivity, making a definitive diagnosis of electrocution more difficult. We describe the use of an alternate light source in the examination of cases of lightning strike and power line contact in wildlife, and the enhanced detection of changes due to electrical currents in the hair and feathers of affected animals. Subtle changes in the wing feathers of 12 snow geese and 1 wolf that were struck by separate lightning events were made obvious by the use of an alternate light source. Similarly, this technique can be used to strengthen the evidence for power line exposure in birds.

Outcome of horses with synovial structure involvement following solar foot penetrations in four UK veterinary hospitals: 95 cases.

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: The factors associated with outcome following solar foot penetration involving synovial structures treated using endoscopic lavage have not been described in the UK population. OBJECTIVES: To provide descriptive data on horses with synovial contamination or sepsis following solar penetration in 4 UK equine referral hospitals and to identify specific factors associated with the outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. METHODS: Data were collected from 4 veterinary hospitals. Follow-up data were obtained via a telephone questionnaire. Two multivariable logistic regression models were generated. Model 1 included all horses with synovial contamination following foot penetration undergoing surgical treatment, with the outcome variable being euthanasia during hospitalisation. Model 2 included all horses surviving anaesthesia, with the outcome variable being failure to return to pre-injury athletic function. RESULTS: Ninety-five horses were included. Overall, 56% of horses survived to discharge and 36% of horses returned to pre-injury athletic function. Model 1 included penetration of the central frog sulcus (odds ratio [OR] 10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9-51.8), concurrent distal phalanx involvement (OR 32, 95% CI 2.6-101.9), increasing days to presentation (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0-1.3) and hospital. Model 2 included increasing days to presentation (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.1-1.6), breed (OR 32, 95% CI 2.2-135.4), more than one surgery (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.0-32.7) and hospital. CONCLUSIONS AND POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: Synovial involvement following solar foot penetration has a guarded prognosis for survival to discharge and a poor prognosis for return to pre-injury athletic function. Penetration of the central sulcus of the frog and distal phalanx involvement are associated with euthanasia during hospitalisation. Delayed referral and hospitalisation are associated with both euthanasia and failure to return to pre-injury athletic function. Breed and more than one surgery are associated with failure to return to pre-injury athletic function. These data may assist veterinary surgeons and owners to make evidence-based decisions when managing cases with synovial involvement following solar foot penetration.

Use of a custom orthotic boot for management of distal extremity and pad wounds in three dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe use of a custom orthotic boot for management of distal extremity and pad wounds in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical report. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 3). METHODS: A custom orthotic boot made of lightweight copolymer plastic was used to immobilize the distal extremity and protect full-thickness wounds involving the medial or lateral aspect of the metatarsus including a portion of the metatarsal pad in 3 dogs. Boots were made in a bivalve design with closed-cell foam padding and adjustable straps that allowed for easy application. They were molded with the tarsocrural joint in slight hyperextension and the metatarsophalangeal joints in a neutral position so that the wounds and metatarsal pads were "off weighted" when the dogs were standing. In addition, a "window" was cut out directly over the wounds to minimize direct contact between the boot and the wound. RESULTS: Wounds healed by contraction and epithelialization in 21, 21, and 45 days. The only complication encountered was mild skin irritation at the top of the boot in 2 dogs that was managed with additional closed-cell foam padding. CONCLUSION: A custom orthotic boot was effective at immobilizing the distal extremity and reducing contact between the wound and the boot which allowed for complete healing by contraction and epithelialization.

[Effects of stocking density on the behaviour and bodily state of broilers fattened with a target liveweight of 2 kg]. / Auswirkungen der Besatzdichte in der Schwermast auf das Verhalten sowie die Fuess- und Beingesundheit von Masthühnern.

The current investigation is a contribution to the animal welfare debate on acceptable stocking densities in broiler chickens. Two stocking densities on similar levels as currently legally regulated (35 kg/m2 und 40 kg/m2) and two cleary lower stocking densities (18 kg/m2 und 25 kg/m2) were investigated in groups of 18 to 42 Lohmann broiler chickens (B) in three batches with each time one replication of all stocking densities. Target weight of the broiler chickens was 2 kg at 39 or 40 days of age. Mortality, final live weights and activity levels were not significantly different between stocking densities. The proportion of time birds were sitting/lying increased in general with age from about 56% to 82%, probably due to their rapid growth. Nevertheless, at the lower stocking densities there was only in single cases. Moreover, significantly more footpads showed medium grade alterations under higher density conditions; high grade alterations were also different between 35 kg/m2 and 40 kg/m2. Walking ability was only different between the lowest and the two higher densities. Altogether results reflect behavioural restriction at the higher stocking densities with increased risks for footpad alterations and lameness. In order to reach clear animal welfare improvements, e. g. in the framework of animal welfare labeling, a considerable lowering of the stocking density is consequently one important measure. However, this recommendation should be further validated under commercial conditions.

Penetrating injuries to the frog (cuneus ungulae) and collateral sulci of the foot in equids: 63 cases (1998-2008).

Objective-To determine the outcome of penetrating injuries to the central region of the foot in equids and identify factors that may affect treatment and outcome. Design-Retrospective case series. Animals-63 equids (61 horses, 1 pony, and 1 mule). Procedures-Records of equids incurring puncture wounds through the frog (cuneus ungulae) or collateral sulci of the foot between 1998 and 2008 were reviewed. Evaluated factors that were hypothesized to affect outcome included signalment, degree of lameness, foot affected, duration between injury and admission, and treatment. Injuries were graded from 1 (< 1 inch; involving superficial corium only) to 4 (involving a synovial structure) on the basis of severity of penetration as determined by radiographic evidence or findings on synoviocentesis at the time of admission. Results-Overall, 60% (38/63) of equids returned to soundness. Thirteen equids were euthanized on the basis of synovial structure involvement and financial constraints. Of 35 equids that were treated conservatively, which may have included undergoing a surgical procedure with the horse standing, 32 (91.4%) returned to their previous level of soundness. Fifteen equids underwent surgical treatment under general anesthesia, of which 6 (40%) became sound for intended use. Ten of 34 (29%) equids with synovial structure involvement regained soundness. Equids treated earlier after injury had a better prognosis. Equids with a hind foot injury had a more favorable outcome than those with a forefoot injury. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Results suggested that penetrating injuries located centrally in the foot of equids without involvement of a synovial structure have a favorable prognosis, especially if managed early. Penetration of a synovial structure provided a poor prognosis.

Pressure load on keel bone and foot pads in perching laying hens in relation to perch design.

The provision of perches in housing systems for laying hens is meant to improve hens' welfare by allowing a more natural behavior repertoire. However, the use of perches is associated with welfare problems, such as keel bone deviations and foot pad lesions, that may possibly result from high mechanical pressure load during extended perching activities. The aim of this study was to analyze peak force and contact area of hens' keel bones and foot pads on solid test perches of square, round, and oval shape with 3 different diameters each (experiment 1) and on commercially used perches (round steel tube, 2 sizes of mushroom-shaped plastic, and flattened round plastic) together with 2 prototypes of soft, round polyurethane perches (experiment 2). Test perches were covered with a pressure sensor film and 36 laying hens (18 Lohmann Selected Leghorn, 18 Lohmann Brown) were consecutively placed on each perch in an experimental cage during nighttime. Peak force (N/cm(2)) and contact area (cm(2)) were measured while hens were sitting and standing on the different test perches. Pressure peaks on the keel bone were approximately 5 times higher compared with single foot pad. On square perches, keel bone peak force was lower (P < 0.05) and contact area was larger (P < 0.001) compared with round and oval perches. In addition, peak force on foot pads in standing hens was higher on square perches (P < 0.05) compared with oval perches. Perch size did not affect peak forces on keel bones in sitting hens and foot pads in standing hens (experiment 1). On prototype perches, peak force on the keel bone was lower and contact area was larger compared with all commercial perches tested (P < 0.001). Peak force on foot pads was lower on prototype perches compared with steel perches (P < 0.01; experiment 2). Perches with a soft surface may possibly reduce keel bone and foot pad welfare problems in perching laying hens.

Transfixation cast technique for arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint of horses.

Surgical arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint by transfixation casting was used to salvage a three-year-old filly and a yearling filly that were chronically lame because of infection of the DIP joint for breeding. Unlike previously described techniques for arthrodesis of the DIP joint, the technique used did not require insertion of implants across the joint, which may have contributed to the successful outcome.

Canine pedal injury resulting from metal landscape edging.

BACKGROUND: This study was performed to document the frequency and severity of limb injuries that occur when dogs come in contact with metal landscape edging. A retrospective study from 1997 to 2007 was performed at Colorado State University veterinary teaching hospital. Sixty dogs were admitted to hospital for traumatic limb injuries resulting from metal landscape edging identified by a computerized medical records search. KEY FINDINGS: Most dogs were young, large breed dogs. All 60 dogs suffered traumatic pedal lacerations when contacting metal landscape edging, the majority of which occurred on the forelimbs. Eighty-five percent required surgical repair. All 60 dogs were discharged from the hospital and 30 were available for long-term follow-up. While most dogs healed with a perfect cosmetic outcome, 3 dogs with tendon involvement developed residual digital deformities. SIGNIFICANCE: Dogs are at risk of injury when exposed to metal landscape edging. Severity of pedal injury determines treatment protocol and prognosis for recovery.