Ulcerative dermatitis and valvular endocarditis associated with Staphylococcus aureus in a hyacinth macaw (Anadorhynchus hyacinthinus).

An 18-yr-old male hyacinth macaw (Anadorhynchus hyacinthinus) was found dead in his aviary with no preexisting signs. The bird had a chronic history of feather damaging behavior, with severe ulcerative dermatitis. Pathologic findings revealed a vegetative valvular endocarditis, myocarditis, septicemia, chronic severe glomerulonephritis, and thyroid dysplasia. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the valve, the liver, and the skin. Repeated trauma and low-rate bacteriemia may have contributed to the development of endocarditis. Translocation of S. aureus skin infection in the bloodstream may lead to subacute endocarditis in humans and such mechanism is suspected in this case. This case suggests that endocarditis associated with S. aureus septicemia is a potential complication of feather damaging behavior. This case also reports a systemic complication of ulcerative dermatitis secondary to feather damaging behavior. Endocarditis has been poorly reported in psittacine species, and such medical complication of feather damaging behavior has never been reported to our knowledge. Furthermore, S. aureus is a bacteria of public health concern and should be integrated into the differential when pet parrots with dermatitis are in proximity to owners.

Incorporating/Integrating Exotic Ambulatory Medicine into a Brick-and-Mortar Practice.

The diversity of species and habitats encountered in nontraditional veterinary practice lends itself to a passionate veterinarian with a wide-ranging set of surgical, medical, and husbandry skills. At every appointment, exotic animal veterinarians perform 2 examinations (patient and environment). The animal and environmental examinations often identify relationships that lend themselves to appropriate medical care and therapies. This article gives practical knowledge and experience to the veterinary professional for the purpose of building an ambulatory service to enhance the success of or to create a stationary practice.

The mobile exotic animal pet practice.

Mobile practice is an exciting, interesting, and profitable means to deliver high-quality veterinary care to exotic animal-owning clients. The advantages and disadvantages should be considered carefully when considering this type of practice.