[Factors influencing inflammatory diseases in the bitch and the survival of her offsprings]. / Einflussfaktoren auf entzündliche Erkrankungen der Mutterhündin und das Überleben ihrer Nachkommen.

INTRODUCTION: Feeding raw meat is becoming increasingly common among dog owners. This feeding practice can pose a hygienic risk and can lead to health risks for dogs and their owners. Hygienically sound food rations, that are balanced in terms of all nutrients and energy, must be feed to breeding dogs. The aim of this study was to record the influence of raw feeding on the occurrence of mastitis, metritis and the survival of puppies. An online questionnaire was sent to kennel club registered dog breeders in Germany and Switzerland. A total of 531 litters were recorded and evaluated. Mastitis and/or metritis were present in 9,2 % and 2,8 % (n = 49 and n = 15, respectively) of the breeding bitches. 29 % (n = 154) of the breeders reported loss of puppies in the litter. The most common cause were stillbirths (n = 105 litters with 187 stillborn puppies), and/or early mortality (n = 50 litters with 73 puppies that died in the first 48 hours). The occurrence of puppy losses in the litter and/or a higher proportion of puppy losses in the litter was favored by increased body weight of the bitch in larger dog breeds, existing previous illnesses, previously reported gestation or postpartum problems, increasing length of the parturition phase and/or a cesarean section. A higher total number of surviving puppies was associated with increased weight and anamnestic reported health of the bitch and the use of milk powder instead of other milk substitutes. A relationship between raw feeding and the occurrence of mastitis, metritis, the total number of surviving puppies and/or the occurrence or proportion of pup losses in the litter and was not found in this study. However very few breeders in this cohort fed their bitches raw, which in turn was due to the random selection of breeders. Many years of breeding experience and the increasing parity of the bitch had a clearly positive influence on the health of the bitch.

INTRODUCTION: L'alimentation à base de viande crue est de plus en plus répandue parmi les propriétaires de chiens. Cette pratique alimentaire peut présenter un risque hygiénique et entraîner des dangers pour la santé des chiens et de leurs propriétaires. Des rations alimentaires hygiéniques et équilibrées en termes de nutriments et d'énergie doivent en particulier être données aux chiens reproducteurs. L'objectif de cette étude était d'enregistrer l'influence de l'alimentation crue sur l'apparition de mammites, de métrites et sur la survie des chiots. Un questionnaire en ligne a été envoyé aux éleveurs de chiens enregistrés auprès d'un club d'élevage en Allemagne et en Suisse. Au total, 531 portées ont été enregistrées et évaluées. Une mammite et/ou une métrite étaient présentes chez 9,2 % et 2,8 % (n = 49 et n = 15, respectivement) des chiennes reproductrices. 29 % (n = 154) des éleveurs ont signalé la perte de chiots dans la portée. La cause la plus fréquente était la mortinatalité (n = 105 portées avec 187 chiots mort-nés) et/ou la mortalité précoce (n = 50 portées avec 73 chiots morts dans les 48 premières heures). Les pertes de chiots dans la portée et/ou une proportion plus élevée de pertes de chiots dans la portée était favorisée par un poids corporel plus élevé de la chienne dans les grandes races de chiens, des maladies antérieures existantes, des problèmes de gestation ou de post-partum déjà signalés, une durée plus longue de la phase de parturition et/ou une césarienne. Un nombre total plus élevé de chiots survivants a été associé à un poids plus élevé et à un état de santé anamnestique de la chienne, ainsi qu'à l'utilisation de lait en poudre plutôt que d'autres substituts du lait. Cette étude n'a pas mis en évidence de lien entre l'alimentation crue et l'apparition de mammites, de métrites, le nombre total de chiots survivants et/ou l'apparition ou la proportion de pertes de chiots dans la portée. Cependant, très peu d'éleveurs de cette cohorte ont nourri leurs chiennes avec des aliments crus, ce qui est dû à la sélection aléatoire des éleveurs. Une longue expérience de l'élevage et l'augmentation de la parité de la chienne ont eu une influence clairement positive sur la santé de la chienne.

[Life expectancy of mesocephalic, dolichocephalic and brachycephalic dog breeds in Switzerland]. / Lebenserwartung meso-, dolichound brachyzephaler Hunderassen in der Schweiz.

INTRODUCTION: Lifespan and time of death of dogs died in Switzerland between 2016 and 2020 were evaluated in order to increase the awareness of the public to animal welfare-related consequences of extreme brachycephalic breeding and to clarify the torture breeding problem of dogs suffering from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Skull shape, body size, country of origin and altitude of the registered place of residence at the time of death were analysed in a set of anonymized data from the national animal database Amicus as potential factors influencing the life expectancy. Death rate during summer months and the altitude of the reported place of residence at death were analysed in relation to the skull shape to demonstrate the heat intolerance of brachycephalic dog breeds. The final dataset included 137 469 dogs. The average age of death of the study population was 11,8 years, mixed breeds reaching a higher average age of 12,4 years than purebred dogs with 11,5 years. Bodyweight classification, skull shape and the origin of the dogs had a significant effect on the average lifespan. Giant breeds reached with 9,0 years the lowest mean age compared to the other bodyweight categories. The mean life expectancy of brachycephalic dogs was 9,8 years, i.e., 2,1 and 1,7 years less than mesocephalic and dolichocephalic dogs, respectively. Brachycephalic dogs and dogs imported from abroad showed increased mortality at a young age.

INTRODUCTION: La durée de vie et le moment du décès des chiens morts en Suisse entre 2016 et 2020 ont été évalués afin de sensibiliser le public aux conséquences sur le bien-être animal de l'élevage brachycéphale extrême et de clarifier le problème des pratiques d'élevage cruelles des chiens souffrant du syndrome obstructif respiratoire brachycéphale (SORB). Outre la forme du crâne, la taille du corps, le pays d'origine et l'altitude du lieu de résidence enregistré au moment de la mort ont été analysés dans un ensemble de données anonymisées provenant de la base de données nationale sur les animaux Amicus, en tant que facteurs potentiels influençant la taille et le vieillissement. Le taux de mortalité pendant les mois d'été et l'altitude du lieu de résidence déclaré au moment du décès ont été analysés pour démontrer l'intolérance à la chaleur des races de chiens brachycéphales. L'ensemble de données final comprenait 137 469 chiens. L'âge moyen du décès de la population étudiée était de 11,8 ans, les chiens croisés atteignant un âge moyen plus élevé de 12,4 ans que les chiens de race pure avec 11,5 ans. La catégorie de poids, la forme du crâne et l'origine des chiens ont eu un effet significatif sur la durée de vie moyenne. Les races géantes ont atteint avec 9,0 ans l'âge moyen le plus bas par rapport aux autres catégories de poids. L'espérance de vie moyenne des chiens brachycéphales était de 9,8 ans, soit 2,1 et 1,7 ans de moins que celle des chiens mésocéphales et dolichocéphales. Les chiens brachycéphales et les chiens importés de l'étranger présentaient une mortalité accrue dans leur jeune âge.

[Outcome of selective mating in the Entlebucher Mountain Dog for reduction of ureteral ectopia]. / Ergebnis der selektiven Verpaarung beim Entlebucher Sennenhund zur Reduktion der ureteralen Ektopie.

INTRODUCTION: The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is predisposed to ureteral ectopia and associated diseases of the urinary tract as well as the kidneys, which can have severe to lethal consequences. Due to the clustered occurrence of clinical signs in 11 % of Entlebucher Mountain dogs in the absence of a genetic test for ureteral ectopia, screening was introduced in 2008 to allow phenotype-based breeding selection. The ureteral orifices of the dogs are visualized by ultrasound and existing urinary retention or urinary incontinence is documented. The diagnostic findings were evaluated centrally with assignment to one of five phenotypes depending on the localization of the ureteral orifices and the renal and ureteral shape. Breeding approval and mating restrictions are the responsibility of the respective breeding associations and predominantly Entlebucher Mountain Dogs with extravesical ectopic ureters and/or clinical signs were excluded from breeding. The effect of phenotype-based selective mating on the incidence of ureteral ectopia and its clinical signs, as well as possible factors influencing the expression of the phenotype, were determined in the birth cohorts after the introduction of screening. Analysis of the data set of 1456 phenotyped Entlebucher Mountain Dogs showed, that at 11 % versus 5 %, males were more frequently assigned to the extravesical phenotype than females. The effect of phenotype-based breeding selection was examined in a subpopulation consisting of phenotyped parents and their offspring (n = 876). The prevalence of the extravesical phenotype decreased from 24 % in the 2005 to 2007 birth cohorts to 1,4 % in the 2015 to 2017 birth cohorts. Since 2015 almost no Entlebucher Mountain Dogs with incontinence, hydroureter or hydronephrosis have been recorded. It was feared that the additional selection measures to control ureteral ectopia in the small Entlebucher Mountain Dog population would intensify the inbreeding increase. However, this has so far remained absent. Therefore, as long as no genetic test is available, it is recommended to continue phenotype-based breeding selection with exclusion of dogs with extravesical ureteral ectopia and/or hydroureter/hydronephrosis/urinary incontinence, while keeping an eye on the development of the inbreeding coefficient.

INTRODUCTION: Le Bouvier de l'Entlebuch est prédisposé à l'ectopie urétérale et aux maladies associées des voies urinaires ainsi que des reins, ce qui peut entraîner des conséquences fatales. En raison de l'apparition de signes cliniques chez 11 % des chiens et en l'absence d'un test génétique pour l'ectopie urétérale, un dépistage a été introduit en 2008 pour permettre une sélection d'élevage basée sur le phénotype. Les orifices urétraux des chiens ont été visualisés par échographie et la rétention ou l'incontinence urinaire existante documentée. Les résultats du diagnostic ont été évalués de manière centralisée avec attribution à l'un des cinq phénotypes en fonction de la localisation des orifices urétéraux ainsi que de la forme des reins et des uretères. L'approbation pour la reproduction et les restrictions d'accouplement relèvent de la responsabilité des associations d'élevage respectives et les bouviers de l'Entlebuch présentant des uretères ectopiques extravésicaux et/ou des signes cliniques ont majoritairement été exclus de la reproduction. L'effet de cet accouplement sélectif basé sur le phénotype sur l'incidence de l'ectopie urétérale et de ses signes cliniques ainsi que les facteurs possibles influençant l'expression du phénotype ont été déterminés dans les cohortes de naissance après l'introduction du dépistage. L'analyse de l'ensemble des données de 1456 Bouviers de l'Entlebuch phénotypés a montré que, à 11 % contre 5 %, les mâles étaient plus fréquemment affectés au phénotype extravésical que les femelles. L'effet de la sélection d'élevage basée sur le phénotype a été examiné dans une sous-population composée de parents phénotypés et de leur progéniture (n = 876). La prévalence du phénotype extravésical est passée de 24 % dans les cohortes de naissance de 2005 à 2007 à 1,4 % dans les cohortes de naissance de 2015 à 2017. Depuis 2015, presque aucun bouvier d'Entlebuch présentant une incontinence, un hydrouretère ou une hydronéphrose n'a été enregistré. Une possible augmentation de la consanguinité due aux mesures de sélection supplémentaires visant à contrôler l'ectopie urétérale ne s'est pas produite. Par conséquent, tant qu'aucun test génétique n'est disponible, il est recommandé de poursuivre la sélection d'élevage basée sur le phénotype avec exclusion des chiens présentant une ectopie urétérale extravésicale et/ou une hydrouretère/hydronéphrose/incontinence urinaire, tout en surveillant l'évolution du coefficient de consanguinité.

Strongyloides stercoralis in Swiss dogs - a retrospective study suggests an increasing occurrence of this potentially zoonotic parasite as a consequence of dog imports.

INTRODUCTION: Strongyloides stercoralis is a worldwide occurring nematode infecting canids and primates (including humans), responsible for a largely underestimated zoonotic disease. We here present 18 cases including overall 20 dogs affected by S. stercoralis, diagnosed in Switzerland between 2010 and 2020. The Baermann examination was positive for S. stercoralis larvae in 10, suspicious in 4, negative in one and not performed in 2 dogs. In 3 dogs the infection was identified only at necropsy by histology or by direct faecal or mucosal smears from intestinal tissue. Confirmation of suspected, necropsied and Baermann-negative dogs relied on genetic analyses. Twelve dogs had a history of import from Eastern Europe (n=4), the Mediterranean basin (n=5) or Germany (n=3). They were 7 weeks to 9,5 months old, and also the dogs supposedly born in Switzerland were younger than one year (except two, aged 15 months and 14 years). Thirteen dogs were males and 6 females (1 unknown). The most represented breeds were Chihuahuas (n=5), French Bulldogs (n=4) and Pomeranians (n=3). The most frequent clinical sign and reason for presentation was diarrhoea, occurring in 11/20 animals. Further gastrointestinal symptoms were vomiting, anorexia/hyporexia, adipsia, dehydration, tense abdomen and tenesmus. Respiratory symptoms were the second most frequent, with coughing in 7/20 animals, followed by tachypnoea/dyspnoea in 5 and (reverse) sneezing in 3 dogs. Treatment with 50 mg/kg BW fenbendazole p.o. over 5 days was successful in 4 cases in which a follow-up examination was performed 3-6 weeks later; prolonged treatment over 21 days was also effective. Ivermectin off-label protocols described in the literature, e.g. 0,8 mg/kg BW s.c. or 0,5 mg/kg BW i.m. repeated after 2 weeks, were successful based on control examinations performed 3-10 weeks later. Strongyloides stercoralis infections are clinically relevant, potentially zoonotic and need to be included in differential diagnoses in case of canine gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, especially in young and imported dogs.

INTRODUCTION: Strongyloides stercoralis est un nématode présent dans le monde entier et infectant les canidés et les primates (y compris les humains), responsable d'une zoonose largement sous-estimée. Nous présentons ici 18 cas incluant au total 20 chiens atteints de S. stercoralis, diagnostiqués en Suisse entre 2010 et 2020. L'examen de Baermann était positif pour les larves de S. stercoralis chez 10, suspect chez 4, négatif chez un et non réalisé chez 2 chiens. Chez 3 chiens, l'infection n'a été identifiée qu'à l'autopsie par histologie ou par frottis fécal ou muqueux de tissu intestinal. La confirmation des chiens suspects, autopsiés et Baermann-négatifs reposait sur des analyses génétiques. Douze chiens avaient des antécédents d'importation d'Europe de l'Est (n=4), du bassin méditerranéen (n=5) ou d'Allemagne (n=3). Ils étaient âgés de 7 semaines à 9,5 mois, et les chiens supposément nés en Suisse avaient moins d'un an (sauf deux, âgés de 15 mois et 14 ans). Treize chiens étaient des mâles et six des femelles (1 inconnu). Les races les plus représentées étaient les Chihuahuas (n=5), les Bouledogues français (n=4) et les Poméraniens (n=3). Le signe clinique et le motif de présentation les plus fréquents étaient la diarrhée, survenant chez 11/20 animaux. D'autres symptômes gastro-intestinaux étaient des vomissements, anorexie/hyporexie, adipsie, déshydratation, tension abdominale et ténesme. Les symptômes respiratoires étaient les seconds plus fréquents, avec une toux chez 7/20 animaux, suivie d'une tachypnée/dyspnée chez 5 et d'éternuements (inverses) chez 3 chiens. Un traitement avec 50 mg/kg de poids corporel de fenbendazole p.o. durant 5 jours a réussi dans les 4 cas dans lesquels un examen de suivi a été effectué 3 à 6 semaines plus tard ; un traitement prolongé sur 21 jours a également été efficace. Les protocoles hors AMM avec de l'ivermectine décrits dans la littérature, par ex. 0,8 mg/kg de poids corporel s.c. ou 0,5 mg/kg de poids corporel i.m. répétés après 2 semaines, ont été couronnés de succès sur la base de contrôles effectués 3 à 10 semaines plus tard. Les infections à Strongyloides stercoralis sont cliniquement pertinentes, potentiellement zoonotiques et doivent être incluses dans les diagnostics différentiels en cas de troubles gastro-intestinaux et respiratoires canins, en particulier chez les jeunes chiens et les chiens importés.

Uterine expression of smooth muscle alpha- and gamma-actin and smooth muscle myosin in bitches diagnosed with uterine inertia and obstructive dystocia.

Primary uterine inertia (PUI) is the most common type of dystocia in dogs. We hypothesized that PUI develops because of lower than normal expression of the basic contractile elements in the uterus, i.e., smooth muscle (SM) α- and γ-actin and SM-myosin, and that the expression of these proteins is influenced by the number of fetuses present in utero. Full-thickness inter-placental uterine biopsies were collected during Cesarean sections from dogs with PUI (n = 11), and from bitches with obstructive dystocia (OD) still presenting strong labor contractions (designated as the control group, n = 7). Relative gene expression was determined by semi-quantitative real-time (TaqMan) PCR, and protein localization by immunohistochemistry. Gene expression between PUI and OD bitches, and between PUI bitches carrying small, large, or average number of fetuses according to their breed, were compared. Uterine SM-γ-actin and SM-myosin mRNA levels were significantly higher in PUI than in OD dogs, while SM-α-actin did not differ. PUI bitches carrying large litters had lower uterine SM-γ-actin gene expression than those with small litters (P = 0.008). Immunostaining for SM-actin isoforms and SM-myosin was present in the myometrium, and localization pattern and staining intensity appeared similar in the PUI and OD groups. All proteins stained in blood vessels, and SM-γ-actin was also present in endometrial luminal and glandular epithelium. In conclusion, higher uterine SM-γ-actin and SM-myosin gene expression in PUI bitches, compared with OD dogs, might be an indication of abnormal progression with labor. Whether this is the cause of PUI due to an intrinsic error of the myometrium not becoming committed to labor, or the consequence of inadequate endocrine or mechanical stimuli, is not clear. Litter size was previously shown to be one of the risk factors for the development of uterine inertia in dogs, and our findings suggest possible differing uterine pathophysiology of PUI with respect to litter size.

Association of missense variants in GDF9 with litter size in Entlebucher Mountain dogs.

In the past two decades, average litter size (ALS) in Entlebucher Mountain dogs decreased by approximately 0.8 puppies. We conducted a GWAS for ALS using the single-step methodology to take advantage of 1632 pedigree records, 892 phenotypes and 372 genotypes (173 662 markers) for which only 12% of the dogs had both phenotypes and genotypes available. Our analysis revealed associations towards the growth differentiation factor 9 gene (GDF9), which is known to regulate oocyte maturation. The trait heritability was estimated at 43.1%, from which approximately 15% was accountable by the GDF9 locus alone. Therefore, markers flanking GDF9 explained approximately 6.5% of the variance in ALS. Analysis of WGSs revealed two missense substitutions in GDF9, one of which (g.11:21147009G>A) affected a highly conserved nucleotide in vertebrates. The derived allele A was validated in 111 dogs and shown to be associated with decreased ALS (-0.75 ± 0.22 puppies per litter). The variant was further predicted to cause a proline to serine substitution. The affected residue was immediately followed by a six-residue deletion that is fixed in the canine species but absent in non-canids. We further confirmed that the deletion is prevalent in the Canidae family by sequencing three species of wild canids. Since canids uniquely ovulate oocytes at the prophase stage of the first meiotic division, requiring maturation in the oviduct, we conjecture that the amino acid substitution and the six-residue deletion of GDF9 may serve as a model for insights into the dynamics of oocyte maturation in canids.

Brucella canis infection in a young dog with epididymitis and orchitis.

INTRODUCTION: The following case report describes the clinical and diagnostic procedure for suspected brucellosis infection in a dog. A 21 month old intact male Border Collie was presented with an enlarged right testicle and epididymis. The dog was imported to Switzerland from Germany at the age of three months, but was never abroad since then. Clinical and laboratory diagnostic investigation included bacteriology and histology. An initial serological evaluation by means of rapid slide agglutination test (RSAT) was negative. Repeated examination of the same serum by a chromatographic immunoassay (ICT) revealed a positive result. Brucella canis infection was confirmed by culture. The present case is intended to underline the importance of the suspected diagnosis of 'brucellosis' in the presence of reproductive tract problems in dogs. In addition, Brucella canis has zoonotic potential and it is imperative to comply with strict hygiene management.

INTRODUCTION: Le rapport de cas suivant décrit la procédure clinique et diagnostique en cas de suspicion d'infection par la brucellose chez un chien. Un Border Collie mâle intact de 21 mois a été présenté avec un grossissement du testicule et de l'épididyme droits. Le chien avait été importé d'Allemagne en Suisse à l'âge de trois mois, mais n'avait si non jamais été à l'étranger depuis lors. Des examens diagnostiques cliniques et de laboratoire, notamment bactériologie et histologie ont été effectués. Une première évaluation sérologique au moyen du test d'agglutination rapide sur lame (RSAT) était négative. Un examen ultérieur du même sérum par une immunoanalyse chromatographique (ICT) a révélé un résultat positif. L'infection à Brucella canis a été confirmée par culture. Le présent cas souligne l'importance du diagnostic présumé de «brucellose¼ en présence de problèmes de l>appareil reproducteur chez le chien. De plus, Brucella canis a un potentiel zoonotique et il est impératif d'appliquer des mesures d'hygiène strictes.

Blood calcium, glucose and haematology profiles of parturient bitches diagnosed with uterine inertia or obstructive dystocia.

Bitches with dystocia most often present with clinical signs of uterine inertia (UI). The aetiology of myometrial dysfunction in most of these cases is still not elucidated. We compared blood ionized calcium (iCa) and glucose concentrations in bitches diagnosed with primary UI (PUI, n = 14), secondary UI (SUI, n = 6) or obstructive dystocia (OD, n = 6), and we described their haematology profiles. Bitches diagnosed with UI had a patent birth canal and delivered no puppies yet (PUI) or only part of the whole litter (SUI). The OD group had no UI and showed strong abdominal contractions. Blood iCa did not differ between the PUI, SUI and OD groups and was not influenced by litter size. There was a significant positive relationship (R2  = .241, p = .013) between iCa concentrations and the dam's body weight. Glucose concentrations were also not significantly different between dystocia groups or influenced by body weight and litter size. Hypocalcaemia was detected in 11 bitches, and hypoglycaemia in two bitches. Pregnancy-associated anaemia was seen in about one-third of the bitches. Eight of 12 dogs had increased platelet counts, and ten had leukocytosis with mature neutrophilia. Although iCa did not differ between dystocia groups, low concentrations may have contributed to the development of UI in some of the small size bitches. Hypoglycaemia was uncommon, and therefore, we consider low glucose concentrations not to have played an important role in the pathogenesis of UI in our study population. Pregnancy-associated anaemia, thrombocytosis, leukocytosis and mature neutrophilia were common findings in otherwise healthy bitches diagnosed with different forms of dystocia.

Factors influencing litter size and puppy losses in the Entlebucher Mountain dog.

A good reproductive performance is a central element of animal breeding. The breeders of Entlebucher Mountain dogs observed a decrease of the mean litter size and an increase of the number of unsuccessful matings in the past years. The aim of the present study was to identify factors with an influence on fertility in this breed. In total, 915 litters from 202 sires and 348 dams from 1986 to 2013 entered the analyses. The total puppy losses (7.4%) reduced the mean litter size at birth of 5.49 ± 2.13 to a mean litter size at registration of 5.08 ± 2.05. There was no deviation from the expected equal sex distribution for puppies at birth and at registration, as well as for puppy losses consisting of stillborn puppies and puppies which died or had to be euthanized before registration. The mean annual litter inbreeding coefficient increased from 0.37 in 1986 to 0.40 in 2013 and was correlated with the year of birth of the litter (Kendall's tau b = 0.46). The age of the dam and parental inbreeding were identified as significant predictors with a negative effect on litter size at birth. For the litter size at registration the age and inbreeding of the dam had a significant negative effect and a 1% increase of dam inbreeding is expected to decrease the litter size at birth and registration by 0.1 and 0.09 puppies, respectively. The occurrence of total puppy losses decreased during the years and was more frequent in larger litters. In addition, in litters of older parents the occurrence of puppy losses was more frequent than in litters from younger parents. The final generalized linear mixed-effects models for litter size at birth, litter size at registration and for total puppy losses explained 36%, 33% and 22% of the total variance, respectively. The impact of inbreeding and parental age on fertility of the Entlebucher Mountain dog was small and the influence of the dam was much bigger than the one of the sire. Other factors must be responsible for the variability of litter sizes not explained by the models. Without changes of breeding circumstances, a further increase of inbreeding must be expected. Therefore, a close monitoring and minimizing of inbreeding must be followed up by the breeding community.

Are foetal ultrasonographic and maternal blood progesterone measurements near parturition reliable predictors of the time of birth in the domestic cat?

In cats, accuracy of parturition day prediction by ultrasonographic measurement of foetal structures is decreasing towards the end of gestation. Foetal measurements during the last days of pregnancy are scarce. We determined foetal biparietal, abdominal and eye diameter (BPD, AD and ED, respectively) by ultrasonography as well as maternal blood progesterone (P4) within five days of delivery to predict parturition date and calculate accuracy of prediction. Foetal BPD at birth was compared with newborn kitten head diameter (HD). Kitten HD, crown-rump length (CRL) and body weight were compared by breed and gender. Ultrasonography measurements were carried out on the day of parturition in 14 queens, and on days 62-63 after the first mating and repeated 24-72 hr later in ten other cats. Accuracy of parturition day prediction using BPD and AD was determined based on the equations of Beccaglia et al. (2008) Veterinary Research Communications, 32(Suppl 1), S99 and Garcia Mitacek et al. (2015) Theriogenology, 84, 1131. Progesterone was measured at the time of presentation and repeated 24-72 hr later if parturition did not occur. Data were analysed with linear regression, t test, Mann-Whitney U test, one-way anova and Kruskal-Wallis test. There was a moderate relationship between BPD, days before birth (DBB) and litter size. AD and DBB had a low agreement, and ED was not associated with DBB. BPD at birth was significantly related to HD. The accuracy of parturition day prediction using BPD and AD was 27-53% and 17-35%, respectively. Kitten HD was associated with body weight, and both were inversely related to litter size. Newborn biometric measurements differed by breed but not by gender. Progesterone decreased towards parturition and reached 3.18 ± 1.68 ng/ml on the day of delivery. In conclusion, close to birth, the combination of foetal ultrasonography and maternal blood P4 rather than each as a sole predictor of parturition is recommended.

Different expression of leptin and IGF1 in the adult and prepubertal testis in dogs.

Leptin (Lep) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) are implicated in the regulation of testicular function, but in dogs, our knowledge is limited to the possible role of the IGF1 system in testicular tumours. In this study, we aimed to describe and compare gene expression and protein localization of Lep, IGF1 and their receptors (LepR and IGF1R, respectively) in the testis of healthy adult and prepubertal dogs. Testes were collected from sexually healthy mature (n = 7) and from 8-week-old dogs (n = 7). Relative gene expression of Lep, LepR, IGF1 and IGF1R was determined by semi-quantitative real-time (TaqMan) PCR and cellular distribution in the testis by immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was carried out with Student's t test. Lep and LepR mRNA concentration was similar between the two groups, but IGF1 and IGF1R gene expression was significantly higher in the 8-week-old pups. Protein localization and the intensity of signals differed by age. In adults, Lep and LepR immunoreactivity was detected in spermatocytes and spermatids. Leydig cells showed sporadic, weak Lep staining. In prepubertal animals, intense Lep signals were present in Leydig and Sertoli cells, and LepR was found in Leydig cells. IGF1 and IGF1R protein was expressed in spermatogonia of the mature testis; IGF1 signals in Leydig cells seemed stronger than IGF1R. In the pups, IGF1 and IGF1R staining was detected in Leydig cells and in gonocytes. Sertoli cells showed weak IGF1 and sporadic, weak IGF1R signals. In conclusion, Lep and IGF1 may support spermatogenesis in adult dogs and mediate Leydig cell function. In the immature testis, they may promote development of Sertoli and Leydig cells and gonocytes.

Decidualization of the canine uterus: From early until late gestational in vivo morphological observations, and functional characterization of immortalized canine uterine stromal cell lines.

The apparent lack of classical mechanisms for maternal recognition of pregnancy is one of the most intriguing features of canine reproduction. Consequently, similar levels of circulating luteal steroids are observed in pregnant and non-pregnant dogs. However, the early pre-implantation canine embryo locally modulates uterine responses to its presence, facilitating the successful onset of pregnancy. As a part of this interaction, the canine uterus undergoes a species-specific decidualization. Maternal stroma-derived decidual cells develop, the only cells of the canine placenta expressing progesterone receptor (PGR). There exists an acute need for an in vitro stable cell line model for canine decidualization. Therefore, herein our goal was to establish, immortalize and characterize such a cell line. We immortalized three monolayer dog uterine stromal (DUS) cell lines by stably transfecting them with SV40Tag oncogene. Cells retained their mesenchymal character for over 30 passages, as evidenced by VIMENTIN staining. Genomic incorporation of the SV40Tag protein was confirmed by immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses. Cells submitted to a classical in vitro decidualization protocol (N6,2'-O-dibutyryladenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate) revealed upregulated gene levels of selected major decidualization markers (e.g. PRLR, PGR, IGF1, PTGES). Additionally, the basic decidualization capability of PGE2 was demonstrated, revealing increased levels of, for example, PGR and PRLR gene expression, thereby implying its involvement in the progesterone-dependent decidualization in the canine uterus. In summary, our in vitro model with immortalized DUS cell line could serve as an ideal and unique model to study the underlying molecular and endocrine mechanisms of canine decidualization.

Validation of screening examinations of the ureteral orifices in dogs: Comparison of ultrasonography with dissection.

In dogs, ultrasonography is performed to locate the ureteral orifices in the urinary bladder, but reference values for their normal location using this technique are missing. In this study, the ureterovesical-vesicourethral and inter-ureterovesical distances were determined in 20 freshly euthanized medium size dogs by detecting artificially produced ureteral jets in color-flow Doppler ultrasonography at two different bladder volumes, and comparing them to manual measurements in the dissected bladder. All distances determined by ultrasonography were in agreement with values found by dissection (P ≥ 0.100). With increasing bladder volume only the left ureterovesical-vesicourethral distance changed (P = 0.041). The right ureteral opening was more cranial than the left in 16 dogs. The inter-ureterovesical distances differed by gender (P = 0.016), but spay/neuter status had no influence (P ≥ 0.847). In conclusion, ultrasonography is a reliable modality for screening ureteral orifices in medium size dogs and agrees with anatomical findings.

Urinary incontinence in the bitch: an update.

Urinary incontinence (UI), defined as the involuntary loss of urine during the filling phase of the bladder (Abrams et al. 2002), is a commonly seen problem in veterinary practice. Urinary sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI) after spaying is the most common micturition disorder, and its medical treatment is normally successful, even though the underlying pathophysiological mechanism is not fully understood. Hormonal changes inducing structural and functional alterations in the bladder, as well as in the urethra composition, are discussed. To manage incontinent patients successfully, possible underlying abnormalities besides USMI should be ruled out. In the majority of cases, history, physical examination and simple tests including urinalysis and urine bacterial culture lead to a presumed aetiology. If USMI is the most likely cause, then the advantage of further diagnostic tests should be discussed with the owner before starting a trial therapy with alpha-adrenergic drugs. Potential side effects of this therapy have to be mentioned even though they rarely occur. It is important to thoroughly evaluate the success of the initial treatment. Its failure should lead to further diagnostic testing. Specialized clinical assessments may provide an aetiological diagnosis, and this could serve as a basis for discussing further treatment options. Surgical procedures, which may in rare cases cause irreversible side effects, may be instituted. If incontinence reoccurs after initial treatment was successfully performed, the diagnostic work-up including urinalysis should always be repeated. As results of urinalysis did not correlate well with results of bacterial culture, a urine culture is recommended (Comer and Ling 1981). Cystocentesis is the preferred method of urine collection (Bartges 2004). Equivocal results of quantitative cultures of urine samples obtained during midstream voiding or by catheterization require repeat collection by cystocentesis (Comer and Ling 1981).

Inheritance of ectopic ureters in Entlebucher Mountain Dogs.

To test the hypothesis of a heritable base of ectopic ureters (EU) in Entlebucher Mountain Dogs (EMD) and to elucidate associated risk factors and mode of inheritance of the disease, 565 EMD were clinically investigated and population genetic analyses performed. Based on the location of the most caudal termination of the ureteral openings, 552 EMD were classified into three phenotype groups trigone, intravesically and extravesically ectopic based on results of abdominal sonography, urethra-cystoscopy and/or contrast-enhanced computed tomography. One-third (32.9%) of the phenotyped animals had normal terminations of both ureters in the bladder trigone, 47.3% had at least one intravesicular ectopic termination and 19.8% had at least one extravesicular ectopic termination. Multivariate mixed logistic regression revealed gender as a risk factor associated with EU as males were more often affected than females. Complex segregation analysis indicated a hereditary basis for EU in EMD and the involvement of a major gene in the occurrence of the extravesicular EU phenotype.

Prolactin--to be reconsidered in canine mammary tumourigenesis?

Mammary tumours represent the most common neoplastic disease of the female dog, and the incidence in female dogs is much higher than in women. Whereas the influence of sexual steroids on breast cancer (BC) development in dogs has been studied, very little is known about the role of prolactin (PRL). New studies show that until recently, the importance of PRL in human BC development and progression has been highly underestimated. PRL plays a role in promoting benign as well as malignant neoplastic cell growth in BC in vitro and in vivo. Sporadic publications proposed a tumour promotor role in the dog. The goal of this review is to summarize our knowledge about PRL and human BC as well as canine mammary tumourigenesis, and propose future research in this area.

Apgar score after induction of anesthesia for canine cesarean section with alfaxalone versus propofol.

The effects of alfaxalone and propofol on neonatal vitality were studied in 22 bitches and 81 puppies after their use as anesthetic induction agents for emergency cesarean section. After assessment that surgery was indicated, bitches were randomly allocated to receive alfaxalone 1 to 2 mg/kg body weight or propofol 2 to 6 mg/kg body weight for anesthetic induction. Both drugs were administered intravenously to effect to allow endotracheal intubation, and anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Neonatal vitality was assessed using a modified Apgar score that took into account heart rate, respiratory effort, reflex irritability, motility, and mucous membrane color (maximum score = 10); scores were assigned at 5, 15, and 60 minutes after delivery. Neither the number of puppies delivered nor the proportion of surviving puppies up to 3 months after delivery differed between groups. Anesthetic induction drug and time of scoring were associated with the Apgar score, but delivery time was not. Apgar scores in the alfaxalone group were greater than those in the propofol group at 5, 15, and 60 minutes after delivery; the overall estimated score difference between the groups was 3.3 (confidence interval 95%: 1.6-4.9; P < 0.001). In conclusion, both alfaxalone and propofol can be safely used for induction of anesthesia in bitches undergoing emergency cesarean section. Although puppy survival was similar after the use of these drugs, alfaxalone was associated with better neonatal vitality during the first 60 minutes after delivery.

[The use of deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin®) in companion animal medicine]. / Der Einsatz von Deslorelinazetat (Suprelorin®) in der Kleintiermedizin.

In 2009 Suprelorin® was released in Switzerland for the temporary suppression of fertility in male dogs. However, in practice it has also been used to treat other conditions in male dogs and in bitches. These include treatment of benign hyperplasia of the prostate, the induction or suppression of oestrus and treatment for the side effects of gonadectomy. Also in feline reproductive medicine GnRH-agonists gain increased importance. These areas of application are listed here in terms of treatment success and possible adverse effects after treatment of which owners have to be informed beforehand.

Leptin and leptin receptor gene expression in the canine corpus luteum during diestrus, pregnancy and after aglepristone-induced luteolysis.

Leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEP-R) expression was shown to change throughout the luteal phase in several species and may be involved in steroid hormone production. In the bitch, leptin but not LEP-R protein was detected in the non-pregnant corpus luteum (CL). Until now, no further information has been available on their expression levels and role in CL function. Our objective was to compare time-related changes in luteal LEP and LEP-R mRNA levels during the non-pregnant luteal phase, pregnancy and after aglepristone treatment in mid-gestation. CLs were collected by ovariohysterectomy at different time points: day (d) 5, 15, 25, 35, 45, 65 after ovulation (p.o.) in non-pregnant bitches; pre-implantation, post-implantation, mid-gestation, during prepartum luteolysis; 24 and 72 h after aglepristone injection. Non-pregnant LEP expression was lowest on d5 p.o., increased thereafter and fell again on d45 (P ≤ 0.04). LEP-R expression was not altered (P = 0.07). In pregnant bitches, neither LEP nor LEP-R mRNA levels varied over time (P = 0.201 and P = 0.150, respectively). Aglepristone treatment caused substantial downregulation of luteal LEP expression by 72 h post-treatment (P ≤ 0.01). However, LEP-R expression did not follow the same course (P = 0.193). Our results indicate that both LEP and LEP-R mRNA are present in the canine CL during the non-pregnant luteal phase and pregnancy. LEP expression changes significantly over time in non-pregnant dogs and after aglepristone administration and thus, it may play a role in luteal steroidogenesis and regression.

[Generalized metastatic intestinal and cutaneous calcinosis in a Hovawart puppy with leptospirosis]. / Generalisierte metastatische intestinale und kutane Kalzinosis bei einem Hovawart-Welpen mit Leptospirose.

A 10-week old male Hovawart presented with acute renal failure. Based on clinical symptoms, blood analysis results and serology, a diagnosis of leptospirosis was made. Besides being acotemic, the puppy was initially also severely hypercalcemic. The dog was treated successfully, but developed widespread cutaneous and visceral calcifications. Severe pyloric calcification resulted in functional pyloric obstruction, which was successfully treated by pyloromyotomy. All skin lesions were cured with topical therapy within a few weeks. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of generalized intestinal and cutaneous calcification associated with acute renal failure due to Leptospirosis.