Prevalence, differences, and potential correlation to age, sex, breed, coat color, iris color, and geographic location in naturally occurring refractive errors in the normal equine eye from Germany and North Carolina.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the normal refractive state in horses in NCSU and ECMR and determine the prevalence of naturally occurring refractive errors and their association with breed, age, coat color, iris color, sex, and geographic location. METHODS: Horses from NCSU (January 2009-November 2012) and ECMR (January 2013-September 2016) underwent ophthalmic examination and streak retinoscopy. Location, color, breed, sex, and iris color were recorded. Gross and net refractive values for each meridian (horizontal and vertical), spherical refraction, astigmatism for both eyes, and anisometry were recorded, and statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: There is excellent agreement in refraction between the eyes of the same horse (ICC = 0.89). The median net horizontal (H), vertical (V), and spherical refraction for the total population (n = 690) were H: +0.25 D (min. -6.50 D, max. +2.34 D), V: +0.25 D (min. -7.13 D, max. +2.75D), and spherical: +0.25 D (min. -6.82 D, max. +2.17 D), all with interquartile ranges of -0.25 to 0.25 D. Emmetropia (>-0.50 D and <+0.50 D; >-0.75 D and <+0.75 D) was present in 769/1380 eyes (55.7%) and 926/1380 eyes (67.1%), respectively. Anisometropia was present in 86/690 horses (12.5%). Sex, iris color, and location were significantly associated with refraction values, whereas age, breed, and coat color were not. CONCLUSIONS: Most eyes evaluated are emmetropic, or shifted myopically, with excellent agreement between eyes of the same horse. Sex, iris color, and geographic location appear to impact refraction in horses. SUPPORT: None.

Use of autologous serum or Vizoovet to improve healing rates of spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects after diamond burr debridement in dogs.

PURPOSE: To determine whether the use of autologous serum or Vizoovet® improved healing rates of spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs) after diamond burr debridement (DBD) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Two parallel group randomized prospective study with a historical control group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Canine patients having undergone DBD for treatment of SCCEDs were included. Data for the control group (ofloxacin only) were gathered from patient records. Patients were randomly assigned to treatment groups for post-procedural medical treatments of ofloxacin and autologous serum (group 1) or ofloxacin and Vizoovet®, an all-natural eyed drop containing propolis, aloe vera, and chamomile (group 2). Each dog was examined between 2 and 3 weeks until the cornea was fluorescein stain negative. Data points collected included age, sex, breed, type of medications used, retention of bandage contact lens (BCL), time to healing, and number of DBD performed. RESULTS: A total of 120 dogs, each contributing one eye to the study, underwent DBD for SCCEDs. Mean (± standard deviation) days until healed were 20.1 ± 11.1 days, 16.3 ± 4.5 days, and 16.0 ± 3.7 days for the control group, group 1, and group 2, respectively. There was a marginally significant difference in days until healed between groups (p = .0515). SCCEDs healed significantly faster in group 2 (p = .03) and marginally faster in group 1 (p = .06) compared with the control group. Days until healing between group 1 and 2 were not significantly different (p = .76). CONCLUSIONS: As compared to the control group, use of Vizoovet® as adjunctive medical treatment resulted in shorter corneal healing time after DBD.

Clinical findings associated with blunt ocular trauma in horses: a retrospective analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Identify ocular findings associated with blunt ocular trauma to aid in differentiation from other equine ocular diseases. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case-control study. METHODS: Medical records of horses at the Equine Clinic Munich-Riem, Munich, Germany and Auburn University, College of Veterinary Medicine were reviewed. Age, sex, breed, laterality, and clinical findings on ophthalmic examination, as well as an observed (confirmed) or unobserved (suspected) history of trauma, were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to identify any correlation between clinical signs and blunt ocular trauma. Fifty-nine clinical signs were evaluated, and their association with blunt ocular trauma and non-traumatic uveitis was determined. The frequency of clinical signs associated with non-traumatic uveitis was also reported. RESULTS: Fifty-five eyes affected with blunt trauma were included. The comparison group consisted of 233 eyes (168 horses) diagnosed with non-traumatic uveitis. The most frequent ocular findings after BOT included cataract (36/55, 65.5%), corneal edema (26/55, 47.2%), decreased intraocular pressure (23/55, 41.8%), aqueous flare (19/55, 34.5%), lens subluxation, luxation, or lens loss (18/55, 32.7%), fibrin in the anterior chamber (18/55, 32.7%), hyphema (16/55, 29.1%), peripapillary depigmentation ("butterfly lesion") (16/55, 29.1%), conjunctival hyperemia (16/55, 29.1%), corneal fibrosis (15/55, 27.3%), corpora nigra avulsion (14/55, 25.5%), blepharospasm (13/55, 23.6%), and iridodialysis (11/55, 20.0%). CONCLUSIONS: The characteristic pattern of ocular signs associated with blunt ocular trauma may assist in differentiation from other types of uveitis and may improve interpretation of ocular lesions identified during pre-purchase examinations. This study also represents the first peer-reviewed documented and photographed cases of iridodialysis in the horse.

Evaluation of a modified radiographic union scale for tibial fractures scoring system in staged bilateral tibial plateau leveling osteotomy procedures and comparison of first and second side radiographic bone healing.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the inter- and intra-rater reliability of the tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) modified radiographic union scale for tibial fractures (mRUST), a semiquantitative scoring system, as compared with the subjective evaluation of radiographic union for staged TPLOs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Forty-eight dogs, 96 stifles. METHODS: Medical records were reviewed for dogs with bilateral cranial cruciate ligament injuries diagnosed at presentation that underwent staged bilateral TPLOs within 6 months and had both immediate and recheck postoperative radiographs. Radiographs were anonymized, reviewers were blinded, radiographic union was evaluated subjectively, and TPLO mRUST scores were assigned. RESULTS: The subjective evaluation's intra-rater reliability was 0.72 (Kappa 95% CI 0.65-0.79) and inter-rater reliability was 0.33 (Kappa 95% CI 0.28-0.39). The TPLO mRUST scoring system intra-rater reliability was 0.73 (95% CI 0.68-0.78) and inter-rater reliability was 0.56 (95% CI 0.41-0.68). There was no difference in the degree of bone healing quantified by the TPLO mRUST scoring system (95% CI - 0.1-1.2, P = .09) or subjective evaluation (P = .48) between the first and second side TPLOs. The TPLO mRUST scores were positively correlated with subjective healing (r = 0.94, 95% CI 0.92-0.96, P < .0001, and for scores ≥10/12, 99%, 244/246) were subjectively assigned as radiographically healed. CONCLUSION: The TPLO mRUST scoring system improved inter-rater reliability compared to subjective evaluation of radiographic union. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The TPLO mRUST scoring system should be considered as a semiquantitative supplemental tool for evaluating radiographic union.

Effects of 0.02% netarsudil ophthalmic solution on intraocular pressure of normotensive dogs.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of QD or BID 0.02% netarsudil ophthalmic solution (Aerie Pharmaceuticals) on intraocular pressure (IOP) in normotensive dogs and to describe any adverse effects. ANIMALS STUDIED: Normotensive Labrador retriever dogs were included in this study: 10 received netarsudil in one eye and artificial tears in the contralateral eye QD, and 10 received netarsudil in one eye and artificial tears in the contralateral eye BID. PROCEDURES: Intraocular pressure curves were acquired over a 3-day acclimation period, 5-day dosing period (QD or BID-10 dogs/group), and 3-day recovery period. Toxicity was assessed daily using slit-lamp biomicroscopy and the semiquantitative preclinical ocular toxicology scoring system. RESULTS: Once-daily dosing did not lower IOP over the entire 5-day dosing period (95% CI 0.1 to -0.9 mm Hg, P = .20) or on the last day of dosing (95% CI 0.4 to -0.9 mm Hg, P = .65). Twice-daily dosing resulted in a statistically significant, but clinically unimportant, IOP reduction over the entire 5-day dosing period (-0.6 mm Hg; 95% CI 0.05 to -1.1 mm Hg, P = .02) and on the last day of dosing (-0.9 mm Hg; 95% CI 0.2 to -1.5 mm Hg, P = .003). Adverse events were limited to transient mild-to-moderate conjunctival hyperemia during the dosing phase in eyes receiving netarsudil vs control (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Netarsudil 0.02% ophthalmic solution twice daily resulted in a small, statistically significant, but clinically unimportant, IOP reduction in normotensive dogs. Future studies should investigate efficacy in glaucomatous dogs.

Comparison of hematologic variables between dogs with congenital intrahepatic and extrahepatic portosystemic shunts.

BACKGROUND: Dogs with congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (IHPSS) are predisposed to gastrointestinal inflammation, ulceration, and bleeding, unlike dogs with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (EHPSS). Limited information is available about hematologic differences between dogs with IHPSS and dogs with EHPSS. OBJECTIVE: Compare hemogram variables between dogs with IHPSS and EHPSS. We hypothesized that hematologic variables would differ between the 2 populations, with a higher frequency and severity of anemia and microcytosis in dogs with IHPSS. ANIMALS: Twenty-six client-owned dogs with IHPSS and 35 client-owned dogs with EHPSS. METHODS: Retrospective cross-sectional study. Dogs were included if a CBC was performed before shunt attenuation. Contingency analysis was performed to determine if the frequency of clinical signs and of hematologic variables below the reference range differed between groups. Hematologic and selected biochemical variables were compared between groups using an analysis of covariance with age as a covariate. RESULTS: Gastrointestinal clinical signs (IHPSS, 81% vs EHPSS, 34%; P = .01), anemia (31% vs 6%; P = .01), microcytosis (77% vs 29%; P = .002), and hypochromia (77% vs 49%; P = .03) were more common in dogs with IHPSS than in dogs with EHPSS. Dogs with IHPSS had lower packed cell volume (34% vs 41%, P = .04), hemoglobin concentration (11.5 g/dL vs 13.7 g/dL, P = .03), mean corpuscular volume (57 fL vs 65 fL; P = .001), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (32 g/dL vs 33 g/dL; P = .04) than dogs with EHPSS. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Dogs with IHPSS had a higher frequency of anemia, microcytosis, and hypochromia and exhibited more gastrointestinal clinical signs.

The Impact of Cat Fostering on Older Adult Well-Being and Loneliness: A Feasibility Study.

OBJECTIVES: This feasibility study explored the impact of fostering a shelter cat on loneliness and well-being in older adults living alone without a pet. The study also examined the effect of cat fostering on older adults' interest in cat adoption when perceived barriers to adoption were removed. METHODS: A total of 29 adults (age ≥60) were paired with a cat and asked to foster for a minimum of 4 months (with an option to adopt). Participants completed surveys before placement with cats, with a follow-up at 1 and 4 months postplacement and 12 months if they adopted their cat. The survey included scales of loneliness, physical and mental health, self-efficacy, positive and negative affect, and comfort from a companion animal. Scores were compared across time using a Multivariable Linear Mixed Model. RESULTS: A total of 23 of 29 (79.3%) participants remained in the study for at least 4 months, and a majority (95.7%) adopted their cat. Differences in marginal means (adjusted for physical health) showed a significant improvement in loneliness from baseline to 4 months (p = .029). A similar 4-month improvement that approached statistical significance (adjusted p = .079) was observed for mental health. No other scales showed statistically significant changes across time. DISCUSSION: Fostering a shelter cat with the option for adoption may be an effective solution for alleviating loneliness and improving mental health in older adults. Interest in adopting foster cats was high when perceived barriers to adoption were removed.

Evaluation of azithromycin in systemic and toothpaste forms for the treatment of ciclosporin-associated gingival overgrowth in dogs.

BACKGROUND: Gingival overgrowth is an adverse effect of ciclosporin therapy. Azithromycin (AZI) in capsule and toothpaste form is an effective treatment for ciclosporin-associated gingival overgrowth (CsAGO) in humans. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: To evaluate AZI in a systemic and a toothpaste form for the treatment of CsAGO in dogs. The secondary objective was to determine which treatment is more effective. ANIMALS: Thirty-six client-owned dogs with CsAGO. METHODS: Dogs were randomly assigned to the following four groups: AZI capsule; AZI toothpaste; placebo capsule; and placebo toothpaste. Treatments were for 4 weeks, and measurements of gingival sulcus depth, tooth length and subjective global scores were taken at weeks 0, 2, 4 and 8. The AZI dose was 10 mg/kg daily, and brushing (8.5% AZI) was once daily. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in gingival sulcus depth for the AZI capsule group at week 8 and for the AZI toothpaste group at weeks 2, 4 and 8. The mean decrease in gingival sulcus depth was significantly greater in active versus placebo groups (P = 0.0356). The tooth length and subjective global scores were not significantly different for any groups. Gastrointestinal adverse events occurred in all groups, but more frequently in the AZI capsule group. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Azithromycin improved CsAGO in only one measured parameter, gingival sulcus depth. Only one dog in the AZI capsule group had complete resolution of CsAGO. Further studies are warranted. Azithromycin capsules were associated with the most gastrointestinal adverse effects.

Evaluation of red blood cell distribution width, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and other hematologic parameters in canine acute pancreatitis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine if RBC distribution width (RDW), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and other hematological parameters are associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality, increased length of hospitalization (LOH), or disease severity as measured by the Canine Acute Pancreatitis Severity (CAPS) score in dogs with acute pancreatitis (AP). DESIGN: Retrospective, multicenter study from January 2016 to August 2020. SETTING: Four private emergency and specialty referral centers. ANIMALS: On initial case search, 118 client-owned dogs were identified with a clinical diagnosis of AP. Out of these cases, 114 dogs met inclusion criteria, defined as sudden onset of ≥2 compatible clinic signs (lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, or abdominal pain), a specific canine pancreatic lipase concentration >400 µg/L, hospital admission, as well as CBC and serum biochemistry run within 48 hours of initial hospitalization. Disease severity was calculated and measured using the CAPS score, in addition to LOH and in-hospital mortality. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Clinical endpoints were in-hospital mortality, LOH, and disease severity, as evaluated by the CAPS score. Overall in-hospital mortality was 36.8%. NLR was significantly associated with survival, with a higher percentage being associated with an increased likelihood of nonsurvival (odds ratio: 1.1, 95% confidence interval: 1.0-1.2; P = 0.006, adjusted P = 0.04). Increased NLR was found to be significantly associated with a longer LOH based on the unadjusted P-value (P = 0.02) but was not statistically significant based on a P-value adjusted for multiple comparisons (P = 0.12). No significant associations were noted when RDW, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, WBC count, mean platelet volume, RDW-to-platelet ratio, or RDW-to-total serum calcium ratio was evaluated against outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS: This study retrospectively evaluated the prognostic utility of several readily available hematological parameters in dogs hospitalized for AP. Dogs with an increased NLR may have a higher risk of in-hospital mortality and increased LOH, although future prospective studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Effect of audible static on blood pressure measurement by Doppler ultrasonic sphygmomanometry in cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to determine whether the use of headphones to eliminate audible static during Doppler ultrasonic sphygmomanometry affects blood pressure (BP) measurement in conscious young adult (aged 1-6 years) and mature adult/senior (aged ⩾7 years) cats. METHODS: A randomized crossover study was conducted. Healthy client-owned cats (>1 year) were enrolled. Blood pressure measurements were obtained twice, 14 days apart, with or without the use of headphones worn by a veterinarian. A fear, anxiety and stress (FAS) score (0 = relaxed; 4 = severe signs) was recorded. A linear mixed-effects model was used to compare the effect of wearing headphones on BP measurement. RESULTS: In total, 18 young adult and 14 mature adult and senior cats with a median age of 5 years (range 1-14 years) were enrolled. Of the cats, 47% (15/32) had an average BP measurement that was at least 10 mmHg higher when using headphones compared with when not using headphones, of which a majority (11/15, 73%) were young adult cats. The average BP measurement was not different when using headphones compared with when not using headphones (mean difference -7 mmHg; 95% confidence interval -14 to 0.6; P = 0.07). When compared within age groups, the average BP measurement taken when using headphones (125 ± 15 mmHg) was lower compared with the measurement taken when not using headphones (137 ± 17 mmHg) in young adult cats (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The reduction in the average BP measurement with the use of headphones suggests this method may be helpful in reducing situational hypertension, particularly in young adult cats. Our findings also highlight the importance of consistent use of headphones when comparing serial measurements in a cat.

Translational research to develop a human PBPK models tool kit-volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Toxicity and exposure evaluations remain the two of the key components of human health assessment. While improvement in exposure assessment relies on a better understanding of human behavior patterns, toxicity assessment still relies to a great extent on animal toxicity testing and human epidemiological studies. Recent advances in computer modeling of the dose-response relationship and distribution of xenobiotics in humans to important target tissues have advanced our abilities to assess toxicity. In particular, physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models are among the tools than can enhance toxicity assessment accuracy. Many PBPK models are available to the health assessor, but most are so difficult to use that health assessors rarely use them. To encourage their use these models need to have transparent and user-friendly formats. To this end the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) is using translational research to increase PBPK model accessibility, understandability, and use in the site-specific health assessment arena. The agency has initiated development of a human PBPK tool-kit for certain high priority pollutants. The tool kit comprises a series of suitable models. The models are recoded in a single computer simulation language and evaluated for use by health assessors. While not necessarily being state-of-the-art code for each chemical, the models will be sufficiently accurate to use for screening purposes. This article presents a generic, seven-compartment PBPK model for six priority volatile organic compounds (VOCs): benzene (BEN), carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)), dichloromethane (DCM), perchloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), and vinyl chloride (VC). Limited comparisons of the generic and original model predictions to published kinetic data were conducted. A goodness of fit was determined by calculating the means of the sum of the squared differences (MSSDs) for simulation vs. experimental kinetic data using the generic and original models. Using simplified solvent exposure assumptions for oral ingestion and inhalation, steady-state blood concentrations of each solvent were simulated for exposures equivalent to the ATSDR Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs). The predicted blood levels were then compared to those reported in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). With the notable exception of BEN, simulations of combined oral and inhalation MRLs using our generic VOC model yielded blood concentrations well above those reported for the 95th percentile blood concentrations for the U.S. populations, suggesting no health concerns. When the PBPK tool kit is fully developed, risk assessors will have a readily accessible tool for evaluating human exposure to a variety of environmental pollutants.

Evaluation of methylprednisolone and triamcinolone for the induction and maintenance treatment of pruritus in allergic cats: a double-blinded, randomized, prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Oral triamcinolone (T) and methylprednisolone (M) have been recommended at various dosages for the control of pruritus associated with feline allergic dermatitis. OBJECTIVES: The first objective was to determine effective dosages of methylprednisolone (Pfizer, New York, NY, USA) and triamcinolone (Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., St Joseph, MO, USA) required to induce remission from pruritus associated with feline allergic dermatitis. The second objective was to compare efficacy of several different alternate day maintenance dosages. The third objective was to determine whether laboratory abnormalities occurred at effective dosages. ANIMALS: Thirty-two client-owned allergic cats were randomly assigned to the M or T groups. METHODS: Owners reported weekly on pruritus score and behavioural changes. Remission was defined as a pruritus score of ≤2/10, with 0 as the least and 10 as the most pruritic. Serum chemistry, complete blood count, fructosamine and urinalysis were assessed on day 0, at the end of the 7-14 day induction phase and at study completion. RESULTS: Mean once daily doses required for induction were 1.41 mg/kg for M and 0.18 mg/kg for T. Mean alternate day maintenance doses were 0.54 mg/kg for M and 0.08 mg/kg for T. There was a statistically significant decrease in eosinophils and increase in fructosamine for both groups from baseline to study completion. Fructosamine levels did not exceed the reference range in any case. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that triamcinolone is approximately seven times as potent as methylprednisolone, and that these dosages are efficacious and well tolerated for the control of pruritus in allergic cats.

Urine bacterial culture growth and association with urine sedimentation and clinical findings in cats with acute kidney injury.

OBJECTIVES: A urine culture is often pursued in cats with acute kidney injury (AKI) to screen for bacterial growth in the urine, but it can be cost prohibitive. The aim of the study was to determine the ability of a urinalysis and lower urinary tract signs (LUTS) to predict urine culture results in cats with AKI. METHODS: Ninety-seven cats with AKI were included in this study. This was a retrospective, observational study. Medical records from 2008 to 2018 were reviewed to identify cats with AKI that had a paired urinalysis and urine bacterial culture. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values of microscopic bacteriuria, pyuria, hematuria and the presence of LUTS for predicting urine culture results was calculated. RESULTS: Thirty-two percent of cats (n = 31) had a positive urine culture. Of these, 28 (90%) had bacteriuria, 21 (68%) had pyuria, 13 (42%) had hematuria and 10 (32%) had LUTS. Of the 42 cats without hematuria or pyuria, seven had a positive urine culture (17%). Bacteriuria had a high sensitivity (90%) and specificity (92%) for predicting urine culture bacterial growth. The absence of bacteriuria had a high negative predictive value for no bacterial growth (95%). The odds of a positive urine culture were increased with bacteriuria (odds ratio [OR] 114, 95% confidence interval [CI] 29-621; P <0.001), pyuria (OR 21, 95% CI 7-70; P <0.001) and LUTS (OR 5, 95% CI 1.7-16; P = 0.004). Hematuria was not associated with a positive culture (sensitivity 42%, specificity 52%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Microscopic bacteriuria and pyuria on urine sediment evaluation and LUTS can be helpful for predicting bacterial culture results in cats with AKI and in settings where submitting a urine culture may not be financially feasible.

Serum and Fecal Amino Acid Profiles in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease.

The purpose of the study was to quantify serum and fecal amino acids (AA) in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and compare to healthy cats. Thirty-five cats with International Renal Interest Society Stage 1-4 CKD and 16 healthy mature adult and senior client-owned cats were included in this prospective cross-sectional study. Sera were analyzed for 25 AA concentrations using an ion exchange chromatography AA analyzer with post column ninhydrin derivatization. Voided fecal samples were analyzed for 22 AA concentrations using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. CKD cats had lower serum concentrations of phenylalanine (mean difference ± standard error of the mean: 12.7 ± 4.3 µM; p = 0.03), threonine (29.6 ± 9.2 µM; p = 0.03), tryptophan (18.4 ± 5.4 µM; p = 0.005), serine (29.8 ± 12.6 µM; p = 0.03), and tyrosine (11.6 ± 3.8 µM; p = 0.01) and higher serum concentrations of aspartic acid (4.7 ± 2.0 µM; p = 0.01), ß-alanine (3.4 ± 1.2 µM; p = 0.01), citrulline (5.7 ± 1.6 µM; p = 0.01), and taurine (109.9 ± 29.6 µM; p = 0.01) when compared to healthy cats. Fecal AA concentrations did not differ between healthy cats and CKD cats. 3-Methylhistidine-to-creatinine did not differ between healthy cats with and without muscle loss. Cats with CKD IRIS Stages 1-4 have a deranged serum amino acid profile compared to healthy cats.

Effect of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on healing times and complications in dogs with spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects.

BACKGROUND: Little is published regarding topical NSAID effect on corneal healing in dogs. This retrospective cohort study aimed to compare healing times and complications in dogs with spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCED) treated with and without topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). METHODS: Medical records of 66 dogs (71 eyes) diagnosed with SCCED between 2008 and 2019 were included. Eyes were divided into: (1) those receiving topical NSAIDs (n = 33) versus (2) those not receiving topical NSAID (n = 38). Follow-up until healed, such as comfortable eye, negative fluorescein stain was required. Use of topical or systemic anti-inflammatories outside of NSAID or presence of ocular disorders or systemic endocrinopathies that may contribute to delayed healing resulted in study exclusion. RESULTS: Healing times were significantly longer in eyes that received topical NSAID (p = 0.008), however, the use of more topical medications for treatment was also associated with longer healing times (p = 0.001). The majority of eyes in the NSAID group received multiple medications, compared to the non-NSAID group, so it was not possible to separate the effects of NSAID from a number of medications. Complications occurred in three eyes of three dogs within the NSAID group. CONCLUSIONS: In these canine SCCED eyes, the use of more topical medications, including NSAID, was associated with significantly delayed healing time.

Single instead of triplicate intraocular pressure measurements in dogs do not substantially lower accuracy and precision but do slightly reduce statistical power.

OBJECTIVE: To compare single and triplicate applanation tonometry values across previous intraocular pressure (IOP) studies in dogs. ANIMALS: 116 ophthalmologically normal dogs. PROCEDURES: Triplicate IOP readings (n = 1432) from studies evaluating effect of anesthetic protocols were analyzed to estimate a range of probable differences between averaged triplicate and first, averaged and lowest, and first and lowest IOPs. The decrease in variability with triplicate measurements and the magnitude of effects on statistical power were quantified. RESULTS: The 2.5th to 97.5th interpercentile range for differences of averaged triplicate values minus first IOP readings was -3 to 2.7 mm Hg; for averaged minus lowest: 0 to 3.7 mm Hg; for first minus lowest: 0 to 5 mm Hg. The 95% prediction interval for differences in study group means (n = 160 groups, n = 5 to 11 eyes per group) based on averaged minus first measurements was -1.0 to 0.9 mm Hg with associated SDs reduced by 4% on average. Analysis of previous studies using averaged instead of first IOP values resulted in minimal decreases in SEs of 3-9% (0.03 to 0.09 mm Hg). Of 11 comparisons found significant with averaged data, 2 (18%) were found nonsignificant with first measurements. Of 96 comparisons found nonsignificant with averaged data, 3 (3%) were found significant with first measurements. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: With applanation tonometry in ophthalmologically normal dogs, no clinically meaningful difference was found between the first, lowest, or averaged triplicate IOP measurements, but the first reading has a larger variance and hence will result in lower statistical power.

Fracture rate and time to fracture in dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma receiving finely fractionated compared to coarsely fractionated radiation therapy: A single institution study.

BACKGROUND: Radiation therapy (RT) is used for local pain alleviation in dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma (OS), especially among dogs that are poor surgical candidates for amputation. However, many historical reports of fractionated protocols lack time to fracture and fracture rates. OBJECTIVES: The primary objectives of this retrospective study were to determine fracture rate and time to fracture of dogs receiving RT (coarse or fine fractionated) for appendicular OS. Secondary objectives were to evaluate tolerability and disease outcome measures. METHODS: Fifty-one dogs that received RT as part of treatment for appendicular OS were available for evaluation. Forty-five received coarse fractionation (C-RT, 8 or 6 Gy per fraction protocols [C-RT8 or C-RT6]) while the remaining six received fine fractionation (F-RT). RESULTS: The overall pathologic fracture rate was 37%. Pathologic fracture rate was significantly higher for dogs that received F-RT (5/6, 83%) compared to dogs that received C-RT (12/40, 30%, p = 0.021). In the 17 dogs that fractured, the overall median time to fracture was 57 days. For all dogs, the median progression free interval (PFI) and median overall survival time (OST) were 90 and 140 days, respectively. In a very small cohort of dogs (n = 7) treated with zoledronate and RT, fracture rate was 0% and extended survival times were noted. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, C-RT is recommended over F-RT due to lower risk of pathologic fracture and similar PFI. Prospective evaluation of combined C-RT and zoledronate, especially for dogs with poor surgical candidacy, is warranted for the treatment of canine appendicular osteosarcoma.

Description of and complications associated with reinforced, free-form external skeletal fixation for treatment of appendicular fractures in cats: 46 cases (2010-2019).

OBJECTIVE: To describe a modified technique for reinforced, free-form external skeletal fixation (rFF-ESF) of appendicular fractures in cats and identify factors associated with development of complications. ANIMALS: 46 cats with fractures repaired with rFF-ESF at Angell Animal Medical Center between 2010 and 2019. PROCEDURES: Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment, affected bone, fracture location and orientation, degree of comminution, severity (open vs closed), fixator type, number of fixation pins, use of an intramedullary pin (yes vs no), surgeon experience (staff surgeon vs surgical resident), anesthesia time, surgery time, perioperative antimicrobial administration, concurrent surgical procedures, intraoperative complications, postoperative alignment, whether fixator destabilization was performed, and time to complete fixator removal. Postoperative complications were recorded. RESULTS: 43 of the 46 (93%) cats had a successful outcome, with a median time to complete fixator removal of 8 weeks (range, 3 to 61 weeks). Twelve of the 46 (26%) cats had major (n = 3) or minor (9) complications. In univariable analyses, 4 factors were significantly associated with development of postoperative complications: body weight (OR for each 1-kg increase in weight, 1.8), tibial fracture (vs fracture of any other long bone; OR, 16), use of a type 2 fixator (vs a type 1 fixator; OR, 11), and use of destabilization (vs no destabilization; 7). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results indicated that rFF-ESF can be successfully used to stabilize a variety of appendicular fractures in cats. Further studies are required to compare rFF-ESF with other fracture fixation methods.

Assessment of prehospital care in canine trauma patients presented to Veterinary Trauma Centers: A VetCOT registry study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the epidemiology of veterinary care in canine trauma patients prior to presentation to a Veterinary Trauma Center (VTC). DESIGN: Retrospective observational cross-sectional study. METHODS:  Retrospective descriptive analysis from 22,998 canine case records from the Veterinary Trauma Registry from September 2013 through April 2018. Analysis was focused on the type of injury, care provider, and care provided prior presentation to a VTC (pre-VTC care). A log-likelihood ratio test was used to test for association of outcome and pre-VTC care. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare modified Glasgow Coma Scale and Animal Trauma Triage (ATT) scores between pre-VTC and non-pre-VTC care groups. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Pre-VTC care was provided in 5636 out of 22,998 dogs (24.5%) by veterinarians (81%), owners (19.6%), and first responders (0.03%). The most common nonveterinary interventions included wound care and bandaging in 42% and 39% of the patients, respectively. Mortality was higher in the pre-VTC care group (8.7% vs 7.5%); dogs receiving pre-VTC care were 1.5 times (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-1.88) more likely to die and 1.2 times (95% CI, 1.07-1.37) more likely to be euthanized. The ATT scores were significantly higher in dogs receiving pre-VTC care (mean = 2.53 vs 1.78; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Our data demonstrate that the majority of more severely injured dogs receiving pre-VTC care obtained care by a veterinarian. Dogs receiving pre-VTC care possessed a greater mortality rate but also a greater ATT score; therefore, mortality rate is more likely related to severity of trauma rather than reception of pre-VTC care. We propose that these data should prompt further research and education about prehospital care in veterinary medicine.

Determination of irritant threshold concentrations to weeds, trees and grasses through serial dilutions in intradermal testing on healthy clinically nonallergic dogs.

Irritant threshold concentration (ITC) for intradermal testing (IDT) was determined in 31 healthy, clinically nonallergic dogs. Twenty-three allergens were tested at five variable concentrations ranging from 1000 to 8000 PNU/mL. To distinguish irritant reactions from subclinical IgE-mediated hypersensitivities, serum allergy testing was performed. ITCs were determined by evaluating the lowest concentration to which no dogs (0% cut-off) and to which at least 10% of dogs (> or = 10% cut-off) reacted. ITCs at the 0% cut-off were: 1000 PNU/mL (Johnson grass), 2000 PNU/mL (Ash, Lamb's Quarter and Bermuda), 3000 PNU/mL (Bahia, Rye, Pig Weed and Virginia Oak), 4000 PNU/mL (Marsh Elder and Maple), 5000 PNU/mL (Sorrel sheep) and 7000 PNU/mL (Cocklebur and Black Willow). ITC for Dog Fennel, Box Elder and Red Cedar was <1000 PNU/mL. ITCs at the > or = 10% cut-off were: 2500 PNU/mL (Johnson), 3000 PNU/mL (Box Elder), 5000 PNU/mL (Bahia), 6000 PNU/mL (Pigweed and Marsh Elder) and 8000 PNU/mL (Virginia Oak and Black Willow). For all other allergens, the ITC was >8000 PNU/mL and could not be determined. No significant agreement between positive values was found for the same allergen on IDT and serum allergy testing for each dog suggesting reactions caused by the determined ITCs are less likely subclinical IgE-mediated reactions. These results suggest that ITCs may vary, also they may be very high for the allergens tested and that higher test concentrations may be used for IDT for the tested allergens without inducing an irritant reaction. Further studies are needed to evaluate the benefit of higher IDT concentrations in atopic dogs.