Successful surgical management of pancreatic torsion in a 3-month-old Bernese Mountain dog without evidence of long-term pancreatic dysfunction.

To describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis, perioperative management and the short- and long-term outcomes of a dog diagnosed with pancreatic torsion. A 3-month-old female intact Bernese Mountain dog presented for an acute onset of vomiting, anorexia and abdominal pain. Abdominal ultrasonography showed a hypoechoic mass effect cranial to the stomach. A pancreatic torsion was diagnosed during exploratory laparotomy and treated with partial pancreatectomy. Histopathology confirmed pancreatic torsion. The patient recovered uneventfully and pancreatic function and inflammation testing that was performed 14 months postoperatively showed no evidence of ongoing dysfunction. This is the first report that demonstrates long-term follow-up with pancreatic function testing in a patient who had a partial pancreatectomy due to pancreatic torsion. There was no evidence of long-term pancreatic dysfunction due to partial pancreatectomy secondary to pancreatic torsion. Additionally, this is the youngest patient with pancreatic torsion to be described in the veterinary literature.

Reconstruction of Segmental Bone Defect in Canine Tibia Model Utilizing Bi-Phasic Scaffold: Pilot Study.

The reunion and restoration of large segmental bone defects pose significant clinical challenges. Conventional strategies primarily involve the combination of bone scaffolds with seeded cells and/or growth factors to regulate osteogenesis and angiogenesis. However, these therapies face inherent issues related to immunogenicity, tumorigenesis, bioactivity, and off-the-shelf transplantation. The biogenic micro-environment created by implanted bone grafts plays a crucial role in initiating the bone regeneration cascade. To address this, a highly porous bi-phasic ceramic synthetic bone graft, composed of hydroxyapatite (HA) and alumina (Al), was developed. This graft was employed to repair critical segmental defects, involving the creation of a 2 cm segmental defect in a canine tibia. The assessment of bone regeneration within the synthetic bone graft post-healing was conducted using scintigraphy, micro-CT, histology, and dynamic histomorphometry. The technique yielded pore sizes in the range of 230-430 µm as primary pores, 40-70 µm as secondary inner microchannels, and 200-400 nm as tertiary submicron surface holes. These three components are designed to mimic trabecular bone networks and to provide body fluid adsorption, diffusion, a nutritional supply, communication around the cells, and cell anchorage. The overall porosity was measured at 82.61 ± 1.28%. Both micro-CT imaging and histological analysis provided substantial evidence of robust bone formation and the successful reunion of the critical defect. Furthermore, an histology revealed the presence of vascularization within the newly formed bone area, clearly demonstrating trabecular and cortical bone formation at the 8-week mark post-implantation.

Evaluation of trypsin-like immunoreactivity, pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity, cobalamin, and folate in zoo-housed African painted dogs (Lycaon pictus) at a North American zoological facility.

OBJECTIVE: Assess markers for pancreatic function and gastrointestinal malabsorption in African painted dogs (Lycaon pictus), including canine trypsin-like immunoreactivity (cTLI), canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI), cobalamin, and folate at one North American facility. ANIMALS: 15 healthy African painted dogs held at one institution were sampled during routine health examinations. METHODS: Blood was collected at routine health examinations, and serum was separated and stored until testing. Serum was analyzed for cTLI, cPLI, cobalamin, and folate. The results were evaluated for correlation to sex, age, and storage time of samples. RESULTS: All individuals had cTLI and folate levels below normal reference ranges for domestic dogs (< 5.0 µg/L and < 7.7 µg/L, respectively). Cobalamin values were within or above reported domestic dog ranges, and cPLI values were within range as well. No analytes were significantly influenced by sex or time in storage, while cTLI was positively correlated with age. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: cTLI and folate did not fall within normal domestic canid reference ranges in this population of healthy African painted dogs. Clinical interpretation of these values based on domestic canid recommendations would indicate clinical disease, which was not apparent in this population. Analytes for pancreatic function and malabsorption or gastrointestinal indicators, including cTLI, cPLI, and folate, in African painted dogs should be interpreted with caution when using domestic dog references ranges.

Echocardiographic findings in apparently healthy Czechoslovakian wolfdogs.

INTRODUCTION: To echocardiographically evaluate a large number of apparently healthy Czechoslovakian wolfdogs (CWDs) to identify possible subclinical cardiac abnormalities and to generate reference intervals. ANIMALS: One-hundred and seventeen apparently healthy client-owned CWDs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Standard two-dimensional, M-mode, and Doppler echocardiographic measurements were obtained on non-sedated, manually restrained standing dogs. Animals with no relevant echocardiographic abnormalities were used to generate reference intervals. Echocardiographic variables were compared between males and females and between dogs with and without mitral regurgitation (MR). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Among the 117 CWDs, 103 dogs were used to generate reference intervals. The 14 dogs with abnormalities had more than trivial MR (12 dogs), subaortic stenosis (one dog), and equivocal subaortic stenosis (one dog). The 44 males were heavier than 59 females (P<0.001) and had a larger maximum left atrial dimension (P=0.015), left ventricular internal dimension at end-diastole (P<0.001) and systole (P<0.001), and thicker interventricular septum thickness at end-diastole (P=0.016). A positive linear correlation was identified between bodyweight and aortic root and left atrial diameters and left ventricular dimensions and between age and aortic root and left atrial diameter and peak late transmitral flow velocity. A negative linear correlation was identified between age and peak early transmitral flow velocity and the ratio between peak early and late transmitral flow velocities. No differences in echocardiographic-derived cardiac dimensions were detected between healthy dogs and dogs with more than trivial MR. CONCLUSIONS: In this population of CWDs, subclinical cardiac abnormalities were uncommon, and they were mainly classified as MR.

Strategic treatment for a patient with missing lateral incisor and first molar accompanied by posterior scissor bite and an impacted premolar.

Managing orthodontic treatment for adults with missing permanent teeth can be intricate, especially when dealing with a posterior scissor bite and an impacted tooth. This case report presents successful treatment of a female patient with dental and skeletal Class II malocclusion, high mandibular plane angle, missing maxillary left lateral incisor and mandibular right first molar, as well as right posterior scissor bite, and a deeply impacted mandibular left second premolar. In the maxilla, the right second molar and right lateral incisor were strategically extracted to eliminate the scissor bite and enhance frontal esthetic balance. In the mandible, the edentulous space caused by early loss of the first molar was successfully closed and the impacted second premolar was guided into its proper position after surgical exposure. Finally, symmetric frontal esthetics, well-aligned dentition with ideal intercuspation and an improved profile were achieved, which remained stable in the 17 month follow-up.

Clinical manifestations of chronic pancreatitis in English cocker spaniels.

BACKGROUND: Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is common in English cocker spaniels (ECS). It is histologically similar to IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) in humans and is characterized by duct destruction, interlobular fibrosis, and dense periductular and perivenous lymphocytic aggregates. However, the clinical manifestations of CP in ECS have not been previously described. OBJECTIVES: Characterize the clinical manifestations of CP in a group of ECS, including similarities and differences to IgG4-RD in humans. ANIMALS: One-hundred four ECS with CP and 44 client owned control ECS without CP (both healthy and diseased controls). METHODS: Affected dogs were divided into 2 groups according to the methods used to diagnose CP. Case records were searched for signalment, clinical, and clinicopathological findings, and evidence of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), proteinuria, other immune-mediated diseases, and anal sacculitis. RESULTS: Involvement of other organs was common. Affected ECS presented with a high frequency of KCS (n = 49), proteinuria (n = 47), anal gland disease (n = 36), atopy (n = 21), and other immune-mediated diseases (n = 16). Those with parti-color hair coats, particularly blue roan, had a strong association with CP, suggesting a link between coat color and autoimmune conditions in this breed. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: English cocker spaniels with CP show clinical similarities to humans with IgG4-RD and common involvement of other organs. Clinicians should evaluate affected Cocker Spaniels for proteinuria, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and other potential immune-mediated diseases.

A global systematic review and meta-analysis on the babesiosis in dogs with special reference to Babesia canis.

BACKGROUND: Canine babesiosis is a clinically significant tick-transmitted disease caused by several species of the intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite Babesia, which result in a wide range of clinical manifestations, from mild, transient infection to serious disease and even death. OBJECTIVES: The current study aimed to estimate the global prevalence and associated risk factors of Babesia in dogs. METHODS: Multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science and Google Scholar) were searched for relevant literature published from January 2000 up to December 2022. The statistical analyses were performed based on the R software (version 3.6) meta-package. RESULTS: Out of 23,864 publications, 229 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of canine babesiosis was 0.120 (95% CI; 0.097-0.146). The highest pooled prevalence was found in Europe (0.207, 95% CI; 0.097-0.344). Among several species, Babesia canis was the most prevalent parasite (0.216, 95% CI; 0.056-0.441). The highest pooled prevalence of Babesia in dogs was observed in the summer season (0.097, 95% CI; 0.040-0.174). CONCLUSIONS: Regular screening and appropriate control strategies are recommended for the prevention of transmission of tick-borne disease transmission among dogs.

Increased susceptibility to Mycobacterium avium complex infection in miniature Schnauzer dogs caused by a codon deletion in CARD9.

Mammals are generally resistant to Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections. We report here on a primary immunodeficiency disorder causing increased susceptibility to MAC infections in a canine breed. Adult Miniature Schnauzers developing progressive systemic MAC infections were related to a common founder, and pedigree analysis was consistent with an autosomal recessive trait. A genome-wide association study and homozygosity mapping using 8 infected, 9 non-infected relatives, and 160 control Miniature Schnauzers detected an associated region on chromosome 9. Whole genome sequencing of 2 MAC-infected dogs identified a codon deletion in the CARD9 gene (c.493_495del; p.Lys165del). Genotyping of Miniature Schnauzers revealed the presence of this mutant CARD9 allele worldwide, and all tested MAC-infected dogs were homozygous mutants. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a dog homozygous for the CARD9 variant exhibited a dysfunctional CARD9 protein with impaired TNF-α production upon stimulation with the fungal polysaccharide ß-glucan that activates the CARD9-coupled C-type lectin receptor, Dectin-1. While CARD9-deficient knockout mice are susceptible to experimental challenges by fungi and mycobacteria, Miniature Schnauzer dogs with systemic MAC susceptibility represent the first spontaneous animal model of CARD9 deficiency, which will help to further elucidate host defense mechanisms against mycobacteria and fungi and assess potential therapies for animals and humans.

Exploring the contrasts: in-depth analysis of human and canine mammary tumors - discoveries at the frontier.

We have examined genomic and transcriptomic abnormalities in human and canine samples to evaluate the canine model's validity for breast cancer research, emphasizing similarities and differences. Both species commonly utilize serum tumor markers and noncoding microRNAs. Immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry were employed to illustrate and compare results based on histological diagnoses. In addition to these factors, similarities exist in spontaneous tumor occurrence, age of onset, hormonal influences, and disease progression, including tumor size, clinical stage, and lymph node involvement. Molecular traits such as hormone receptor status, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), and proliferation markers (Ki67) further endorse the canine model's utility in breast cancer studies. The advancement of technologies facilitates the identification of new cancer-associated molecules, both coding and non-coding genes, underscoring their potential as prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Non-invasive surveillance of shared pathogens in the Eurasian brown bear (Ursus arctos) human interface.

Multi-host communities are perfect scenarios for the emergence and spread of pathogens, threatening the recovery of endangered, isolated, or inbred populations, such as the brown bear (Ursus arctos) in northwestern Spain. The population recovery in recent years has forced bears to occupy highly anthropized areas, increasing their interaction with human and domestic animals, with potential consequences for global health. During 2022-2023 a survey of parasites, bacteria and viruses shared between wildlife, domestic animals and humans was performed in this population using non-invasive surveillance, i.e., bear fecal samples (n = 73) and sponge-based sampling of trees (n = 42; 14 rubbed trees and 28 control trees). Pathogen detection rates were defined as the percentage of qPCR or culture-positive samples. Generalized linear models were fitted to assess their relationship with environmental variables including dispersion of the human population, and percentage of agricultural and periurban habitats in a 6 km-buffer around each sample. Canine Adenovirus type 1 (45.2%), Giardia spp. (15.1%), Salmonella spp. (12.3%), and extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases (ESBL) Escherichia coli (1.4%) were identified in fecal samples. In contrast, only five sponges from three rubbed and two control trees resulted positive to E. coli (14.3%). The results suggest that several pathogens are common in the Cantabrian brown bear population and that anthropization of the territory modulates their prevalence and richness. The effective design of management programs for bear conservation will require a one-health approach, in which genetic analysis of non-invasive samples can be key tools for the sanitary surveillance at the wildlife-livestock-human interface.

Factors associated with behavioral euthanasia in pet dogs.

When pet dogs demonstrate certain serious problem behaviors, this may lead owners to choose behavioral euthanasia. However, research on behavioral euthanasia of pet dogs is sparse and previously published papers have not specifically sampled owners who made the decision to euthanize for behavior. The Behavioral Euthanasia in Pet Dogs Questionnaire was created to collect a wide range of information from dog owners who made behavioral euthanasia decisions. Using this survey, we explored the types of behaviors associated with behavioral euthanasia. Human-directed aggression, especially toward adults living in the household, was the most frequently reported reason for choosing behavioral euthanasia; followed by aggression toward other animals, especially other dogs living in the same household. The majority of dogs displaying human-directed or other animal-directed aggression were reported to have bitten and broken skin, and many of these had bitten in multiple or severe incidents. Most dogs had lived in their homes and displayed problem behaviors for over a year prior to behavioral euthanasia, and the euthanasia occurred at a variety of ages, from less than 1 year old to 18 years old. Additional research is required to understand environmental or nonbehavioral factors contributing to the behavioral euthanasia of companion animals, as well as the psychosocial and emotional impact of behavioral euthanasia on the human experience. Understanding the behavioral factors associated with behavioral euthanasia can direct resources toward problem behavior interventions, improve public education about animal behavior, and strengthen the human-animal bond.

Global seroprevalence and prevalence of infection of influenza in dogs (Canis familiaris): A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Influenza in dogs holds considerable public health significance due to their close companionship with humans, yet several facets of this phenomenon remain largely unexplored. This study undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies to gauge the global seroprevalence of influenza in dogs. We also assessed whether pet dogs exhibited a higher seroprevalence of influenza compared to non-pet dogs, explored seasonal variations in seroprevalence, scrutinised the design and reporting standards of existing studies, and elucidated the geographical distribution of canine influenza virus (cIV). A comprehensive analysis of 97 studies spanning 27 countries revealed that seroprevalence of various influenza strains in dogs consistently registered below 10% and exhibited relative stability over the past decade. Significantly, we noted that seroprevalence of human influenza virus was notably higher in pet dogs compared to their non-pet counterparts, whereas seroprevalence of other influenza strains remained relatively uniform among both categories of dogs. Seasonal variations in seroprevalence of cIV were not observed. In summary, our findings indicated the global circulation of cIV strains H3N2 and H3N8, with other strains primarily confined to China. Given the lack of reported cases of the transmission of cIV from dogs to humans, our findings suggest a higher risk of reverse zoonosis than zoonosis. Finally, we strongly advocate for standardised reporting guidelines to underpin future canine influenza research endeavours.

Canine sexual dimorphism in crown and root dimensions: a cone-beam computed tomographic study.

The primary step in forensic odontological analysis is sex determination. The present study is one of the few studies that evaluated the accuracy of the combination of canine tooth root length and crown measurements for sex determination. The study sample comprised 196 cone-be am computed tomographic scans of individuals aged 20-80 years distributed in five age categories: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+ years old. Different parameters, such as width, length, and ratio measurements for the crown and root of each maxillary and mandibular canine tooth, were examined and recorded. The findings indicated that maxillary canines had greater sex dimorphism ability (87.3%) than mandibular canines (80.6%). Total tooth length and root length of maxillary canine were the most pronounced variables in the differentiation of sex groups. When the combination of the mandibular and maxillary measurements was considered, the accuracy for sex dimorphism was 85.7%. By using ratio variables, the accuracy was reduced to 68.9%. According to the findings of this study, total tooth length and root length are the most discriminant variables of canine teeth. These variables are more reliable sex indicators than crown measurements.

Generation of Defective Interfering Particles of Morbilliviruses Using Reverse Genetics.

RNA viruses generate defective genomes naturally during virus replication. Defective genomes that interfere with the infection dynamics either through resource competition or by interferon stimulation are known as defective interfering (DI) genomes. DI genomes can be successfully packaged into virus-like-particles referred to as defective interfering particles (DIPs). Such DIPs can sustainably coexist with the full-length virus particles and have been shown to negatively impact virus replication in vitro and in vivo. Here, we describe a method to generate a clonal DI genome population by reverse genetics. This method is applicable to other RNA viruses and will enable assessment of DIPs for their antiviral properties.

New paradigms in the prevention of canine vector-borne diseases.

The prevention of canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) is pivotal for the health and welfare of dogs as well as for reducing their zoonotic risk to humans. Scientific knowledge gained in recent years contributed to the development of new strategies for the control of these diseases in different social and cultural contexts. Here, we discuss recent advances in the prevention of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) affecting dogs with a focus on those of zoonotic relevance.

A longitudinal study of the blood and urine metabolome of Vipera berus envenomated dogs.

Envenomation of dogs by the common European adder (Vipera berus) is associated with high morbidity. The cytotoxic venom of Vipera berus contains enzymes with the potential to cause acute kidney injury, among other insults, however robust biomarkers for such effects are lacking. A prospective observational follow-up study of naturally envenomated dogs and controls was conducted to fill knowledge gaps regarding canine Vipera berus envenomation, attempt to identify novel biomarkers of envenomation and related kidney injury, and elucidate potential long-term effects. Blood and urine samples were analyzed with a global metabolomics approach using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, uncovering numerous features significantly different between cases and controls. After data processing and feature annotation, eight features in blood and 24 features in urine were investigated in order to elucidate their biological relevance. Several of these are associated with AKI, while some may also originate from disturbed fatty acid ß-oxidation and soft tissue damage. A metabolite found in both blood and a venom reference sample may represent identification of a venom component in case dogs. Our findings suggest that envenomated dogs treated according to current best practice are unlikely to suffer permanent injury.

Validation of a bupropion, dextromethorphan, and omeprazole cocktail for simultaneous phenotyping of cytochrome P450 2B11, 2D15, and 3A12 activities in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a cytochrome P450 (CYP) phenotyping cocktail for dogs using specific substrates for hepatic P450 enzymes CYP2B11, CYP2D15, and CYP3A12 and determine whether alternative sampling methods (saliva and urine) or single time point samples could be used instead of multiple blood sampling. ANIMALS: 12 healthy client-owned dogs (8 females and 4 males) from February 2019 to May 2019. METHODS: In a randomized crossover study, dogs received oral administration of the probe drug bupropion (75 mg), dextromethorphan (30 mg), or omeprazole (40 mg) alone or as a 3-drug combination (Program in Individualized Medicine [PrIMe] cocktail) to evaluate simultaneous phenotyping of CYP2B11, CYP2D15, and CYP3A12. Pharmacokinetic profiles for the probe drugs and metabolites were determined using plasma, saliva, and urine. Dogs received probe drugs alone or combined. Pharmacokinetic profiles up to 6 hours postdose for the probe drugs and metabolites were determined using plasma, saliva, and urine. RESULTS: The PrIMe cocktail was well tolerated. There was no statistically significant interaction between the probe drugs when administered together. Single time point plasma metabolic ratios at 4 hours postdose for all probe drugs strongly correlated with the corresponding area under the plasma concentration-versus-time curve (AUC) ratios. Saliva AUC metabolic ratios for CYP3A12 and CYP2D15 and 6-hour urine for CYP2B11 and CYP2D15 were correlated with plasma AUC ratios. CONCLUSIONS: The PrIMe cocktail can be used for simultaneous CYP phenotyping using plasma 4-hour single time point sample metabolic ratios. Saliva and urine sampling are suitable for specific CYPs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The PrIMe cocktail has potential as a useful tool in dogs to detect clinically important CYP-mediated drug-drug interactions, identify novel pharmacogenes, determine the drug-metabolizing phenotype of individual dogs, aid in individualized dose selection, and evaluate the effects of various physiological states on drug metabolism.

Phylogenetic analysis of papillomaviruses in dogs from southern Brazil: molecular epidemiology and investigation of mixed infections and spillover events.

Papillomaviruses (PVs) have been identified in several animal species, including dogs (canine papillomaviruses, CPVs) and cattle (bovine papillomaviruses, BPVs). Although some BPVs may occasionally infect species other than cattle, to the best of our knowledge, BPVs have not been reported in dogs to date. Herein, we carried out a retrospective phylogenetic study of PVs circulating in dogs from southern Brazil between 2017 and 2022, also investigating possible mixed infections and spillover events. For this, we screened 32 canine papilloma samples by PCR using the degenerate primers FAP59/64 and/or MY09/11, which amplify different regions of the L1 gene; the genomic target often used for PV classification/typing. Out these, 23 PV DNA samples were successfully amplified and sequenced. All PVs amplified by FAP59/64 (n = 22) were classified as CPV-1. On the other hand, PVs amplified by MY09/11 (n = 4) were classified as putative BPV-1. Among these, three samples showed mixed infection by CPV-1 and putative BPV-1. One of the putative BPV-1 detected in co-infected samples had the L1 gene full-sequenced, confirming the gene identity. Furthermore, the phylogenetic classifications from the FAP59/64 and/or MY09/11 amplicons were supported by a careful in silico analysis, which demonstrated that the analysis based on them matches to the classification from the complete L1 gene. Overall, we described CPV-1 circulation in southern Brazil over the years and the potencial BPV infection in dogs (potential spillover event), as well as possible CPV/1/BPV-1 co-infections. Finally, we suggest the analysis of the complete genome of the putative BPVs detected in dogs in order to deepen the knowledge about the PV-host interactions.

Mixed reality-based technology to visualize and facilitate treatment planning of impacted teeth: Proof of concept.

OBJECTIVE: We propose a method utilizing mixed reality (MR) goggles (HoloLens 2, Microsoft) to facilitate impacted canine alignment, as planning the traction direction and force delivery could benefit from 3D data visualization using mixed reality (MR). METHODS: Cone-beam CT scans featuring isometric resolution and low noise-to-signal ratio were semi-automatically segmented in Inobitec software. The exported 3D mesh (OBJ file) was then optimized for the HoloLens 2. Using the Unreal Engine environment, we developed an application for the HoloLens 2, implementing HoloLens SDK and UX Tools. Adjustable pointers were added for planning attachment placement, traction direction, and point of force application. The visualization was presented to participants of a course on impacted teeth treatment, followed by a 10-question survey addressing potential advantages (5-point scale: 1 = totally agree, 5 = totally disagree). RESULTS: Out of 38 respondents, 44.7% were orthodontists, 34.2% dentists, 15.8% dental students, and 5.3% dental technicians. Most respondents (44.7%) were between 35 and 44 years old, and only 1 (2.6%) respondent was 55-64 years old. Median answers for six questions were 'totally agree' (25th percentile 1, 75th percentile 2) and for four questions 'agree' (25th percentile 1, 75th percentile 2). No correlation was found between age, profession, and responses. CONCLUSION: Our method generated substantial interest among clinicians. The initial responses affirm the potential benefits, supporting the continued exploration of MR-based techniques for the treatment of impacted teeth. However, the recommendation for widespread use awaits validation through clinical trials.

The construction of canine distal limb models used in teaching sonography identification of vegetal foreign bodies.

Musculoskeletal ultrasonography is a useful tool to identify radiolucent vegetal foreign bodies (VFBs). However, limited ultrasound experience and unfamiliarity with the normal sonographic appearance of anatomical structures can decrease clinician confidence. This study aimed to design a reusable silicone model that can teach VFB identification within the canine distal limb. Four canine hindlimbs were used to design the silicone models, and 12 canine distal forelimbs were constructed. The model was constructed using cadaver bones, barley grass (Avena fatua) seeds, and silicone to mimic the anatomy of the canine distal limb with a grass seed VFB. Limbs were randomly grouped based on grass seed locations: (1) the interdigital webbing, (2) the palmar surface of the canine forelimb immediately proximal to the metacarpal pad, (3) the dorsal surface of the distal limb immediately proximal to the proximal phalange, or (4) no grass seed (control) placed. Each limb was systematically ultrasounded and compared with cadaver limbs and clinical VFB cases. A comparison of ultrasonographic images validated the construction, revealing that the simulation model replicates the anatomical and echotexture characteristics of the normal canine distal limb. Furthermore, these models also have a likeness to clinical canine distal limb VFB cases and can be utilized as a training tool.