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Background Low blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25( OH)D) concentrations have been associated with cancer in dogs. Little research has examined what other factors may affect 25( OH)D concentrations. Objectives (1) To determine whether the presence of cancer (lymphoma, osteosarcoma, or mast cell tumor [ MCT]) in dogs is associated with plasma 25( OH)D concentrations and (2) identify other factors related to plasma 25( OH)D concentrations in dogs. Animals Dogs newly diagnosed with osteosarcoma (n = 21), lymphoma (n = 27), and MCT (n = 21) presented to a tertiary referral oncology center, and healthy, client-owned dogs (n = 23). Methods An observational study design was used. Dietary vitamin D intake, sex, age, body condition score ( BCS), muscle condition score ( MCS), and plasma concentrations of 25( OH)D, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (24,25( OH)2D) (a marker of CYP24A1 activity), as well as ionized calcium ( ICa), parathyroid hormone, and parathyroid hormone-related protein concentrations were measured. An analysis of covariance was used to model plasma 25( OH)D concentrations. Results Cancer type ( P = 0.004), plasma 24,25( OH)2D concentrations ( P < 0.001), and plasma ICa concentrations ( P = 0.047) had significant effects on plasma 25( OH)D concentrations. Effects of age, sex, body weight, BCS, MCS, and plasma PTH concentrations were not identified. A significant interaction between ICa and cancer was found ( P = 0.005). Plasma 25( OH)D concentrations increased as ICa concentrations increased in dogs with cancer, whereas plasma 25( OH)D concentrations decreased as ICa concentrations increased in healthy dogs. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Results support a relationship between cancer and altered vitamin D metabolism in dogs, mediated by plasma ICa concentrations. The CYP24A1 activity and plasma ICa should be measured in studies examining plasma 25( OH)D concentrations in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The ACTH stimulation has low sensitivity for the diagnosis of hypercortisolism possibly as a result of biological and analytical variability. Hypothesis/Objectives To report the components of biological and analytical variability in serum cortisol concentration post- ACTH stimulation ([cortisol]) in healthy dogs. Animals Fourteen healthy harrier hound dogs. Methods The data were extracted from a separate, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled discovery study in which dogs treated with vehicle control and 4 different doses of cortisone acetate ( CA) for 7 days had an ACTH stimulation test performed to confirm the dose-dependent effect of CA. The index of individuality (IoI), the critical difference between sequential measurements ( C D), and the number of measurements required to assess the homeostatic set point ( HSP) of [cortisol] with confidence intervals ( CI) of 90 and 95% were estimated. Results The IoI was equal to 1.1 and the C D was 3.3 μg/ dL (92 nmol/L). The number of measurements required to assess the HSP of [cortisol] with CI of 90 and 95% were 3 and 15, respectively. Additionally, mean [cortisol] was higher in males than in females (13.3 ± 4 μg/ dL [366 ± 114 nmol/L] vs. 11.5 ± 2.5 μg/ dL [318 ± 65 nmol/L], respectively; P = .046). As expected, treatment with CA resulted in a dose-dependent suppression of [cortisol]. Conclusions and Clinical Importance False-negative test results in hypercortisolism could occur when [cortisol] is outside of the individual's HSP and within the reference interval. The large C D emphasizes the importance of assessing clinically relevant parameters in the diagnosis and monitoring of HC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Esomeprazole is an S-enantiomer of omeprazole that has favorable pharmacokinetics and efficacious acid suppressant properties in humans. However, the pharmacokinetics and effects on intragastric pH of esomeprazole in dogs have not been reported. Objective To determine the pharmacokinetics of esomeprazole administered via various routes ( PK study) and to investigate the effect of esomeprazole on intragastric pH with a Bravo pH monitoring system ( PD study). Animals Seven adult male Beagle dogs and 5 adult male Beagle dogs were used for PK and PD study, respectively. Methods Both studies used an open, randomized, and crossover design. In the PK study, 7 dogs received intravenous ( IV), subcutaneous ( SC), and oral doses ( PO) of esomeprazole (1 mg/kg). Each treatment period was separated by a washout period of at least 10 days. Esomeprazole plasma concentrations were measured by HPLC/ MS/ MS. In the efficacy study, intragastric pH was recorded without medication (baseline pH) and following IV, SC, and PO esomeprazole dosing regimens (1 mg/kg) in 5 dogs. Results The bioavailability of esomeprazole administered as PO enteric-coated granules and as SC injections was 71.4 and 106%, respectively. The half-life was approximately 1 hour. Mean ± SD percent time intragastric pH was ≥3 and ≥4 was 58.9 ± 21.1% and 40.9 ± 17.3% for IV group, 75.8 ± 16.4% and 62.7 ± 17.7% for SC group, 88.2 ± 8.9% and 82.5 ± 7.7% for PO group, and 12.5 ± 3.6% and 3.7 ± 1.8% for baseline. The mean percent time with intragastric pH was ≥3 or ≥4 was significantly increased regardless of the dosing route ( P < .05). Conclusion The PK parameters for PO and SC esomeprazole administration were favorable, and esomeprazole significantly increased intragastric pH after IV, PO, and SC administration. IV and SC administration of esomeprazole might be useful when PO administration is not possible. No significant adverse effects were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Darbepoetin alfa (darbepoetin) is an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent used for the treatment of anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease ( CKD) in dogs, but reports describing response are lacking. Hypothesis/Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of darbepoetin in dogs with anemia secondary to CKD, dosing protocols, and adverse events. Animals Thirty-three client-owned dogs with naturally occurring CKD, including 26 with comorbidities. Methods Multi-institutional retrospective study. Results The median starting dosage and highest dosage of darbepoetin administered were 0.5 and 0.8 μg/kg SC once weekly, respectively. Response to treatment was defined as achieving a packed cell volume ( PCV) ≥30% or an increase in PCV ≥10%. Twenty-eight of 33 dogs (85%) achieved a PCV ≥30% and 22 of 33 (67%) dogs achieved an increase in PCV ≥10%. Median time to achieve a PCV ≥30% was 29 days. A higher starting dosage was associated with achieving an increase in PCV ≥10% ( P = .01). No dog sustained a response at a dosing interval >q21d. Potential adverse events included increased blood pressure requiring treatment (n = 12), seizures (n = 5), vomiting (n = 3), diarrhea (n = 3), and possible pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) (n = 2). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Darbepoetin, when combined with treatment of comorbidities, is an effective treatment for anemia secondary to CKD in dogs. A dosing interval >q21d was ineffective at maintaining a response to treatment. PRCA was a possible adverse event in 2 of 33 dogs (6%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The coagulation status of dogs with liver disease is difficult to predict using conventional coagulation testing. Hypothesis/Objectives To evaluate thromboelastography ( TEG) results and associations with conventional coagulation results and indicators of disease severity and prognosis in dogs with chronic hepatopathies ( CH). Animals Twenty-one client-owned dogs. Methods Dogs with CH were prospectively (10 dogs) and retrospectively (11 dogs) enrolled from 2008 to 2014. Kaolin-activated TEG was performed and compared with reference intervals by t-tests or Mann-Whitney tests. Correlation coefficients for TEG results and conventional coagulation and clinicopathologic results were determined. Significance was set at P < .05. Results Dogs with CH had significant increases in R (5.30 min vs 4.33 min), K (3.77 min vs 2.11 min), and LY30 (4.77% vs 0.68%) and decreased angles (55.3° vs 62.4°). G value defined 9 of 21, 7 of 21, and 5 of 21 dogs as normocoagulable, hypercoagulable, and hypocoagulable, respectively. G and MA were correlated with fibrinogen ( r = 0.68, 0.83), prothrombin time ( PT; r = −0.51, −0.53), and activated partial thromboplastin time ( aPTT; r = −0.50, −0.50). K was correlated with PT ( r = 0.75) and protein C activity ( r = −0.92). Angle was correlated with aPTT ( r = −0.63). Clinical score was correlated with PT ( r = 0.60), MA ( r = −0.53), and R ( r = −0.47). Dogs with hyperfibrinolysis ( LY30 > 3.04%; 5 of 21) had significantly higher serum transaminase activities. Dogs with portal hypertension had significantly lower G, MA, and angle and prolonged, K, R, and PT. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Dogs with CH have variable TEG results. Negative prognostic indicators in CH correlate with hypocoagulable parameters on TEG. Hyperfibrinolysis in dogs with CH is associated with high disease activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ascending/descending myelomalacia ( ADMM) is a severe complication of thoracolumbar intervertebral disk herniation ( TL- IVDH) in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives To investigate the prevalence and risk factors for ADMM in nonambulatory dogs with surgically treated TL- IVDH. Animals Six-hundred and fifty-two client-owned dogs evaluated for TL- IVDH that underwent decompressive spinal surgery. Methods Retrospective medical record review from February 2007 through December 2015. Results Thirteen dogs developed ADMM, with an overall prevalence of 2.0%. The prevalence of ADMM was 0% in dogs with neurological signs graded 1 or 2 at admission or before magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) or surgical procedures, 0.6% in dogs with neurological signs graded 3, 2.7% in dogs with neurological signs graded 4, and 14.5% in dogs with neurological signs graded 5. Age (<5.8 years), neurological status (grade 5), site of disk herniation (L5-L6), duration of clinical signs before becoming nonambulatory (<24 hours), detection of intramedullary T2-weighted (T2W) hyperintensity, and a T2 length ratio >4.57 were significant risk factors in the univariate analysis for development of ADMM. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The factors identified in this study may be useful for the prediction of ADMM. Multicenter studies with a higher number of dogs with ADMM are required to confirm these data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Urethral stent placement is an interventional treatment option to alleviate urethral outflow obstruction. It has been described utilizing fluoroscopy, but fluoroscopy is not as readily available in private practice as digital radiography. Objectives To describe the use of digital radiography for urethral stent placement in dogs with obstructive uropathy. Animals Twenty-six client-owned dogs presented for dysuria associated with benign and malignant causes of obstructive uropathy that underwent urethral stent placement. Methods Retrospective study. Results Causes of obstructive uropathy included transitional cell carcinoma, prostatic carcinoma, hemangiosarcoma, obstructive proliferative urethritis, compressive vaginal leiomyosarcoma, and detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. Survival time range was 1-48 months (median, 5 months). All dogs were discharged from the hospital with urine outflow restored. Intraprocedural complications included guide wire penetration of the urethral wall in 1 dog and improper stent placement in a second dog. Both complications were successfully managed at the time of the procedure with no follow-up problems noted in either patient. Conclusion and Clinical Importance Urethral stent placement can be successfully performed utilizing digital radiography. The complications experienced can be avoided by more cautious progression with each step through the procedure and serial radiography. The application of digital radiography may allow treatment of urethral obstruction to become more readily available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Diagnosis of protein loss into the gastrointestinal tract using noninvasive techniques is challenging. In people, scintigraphy not only is a sensitive tool to confirm protein-losing enteropathy ( PLE), but it also allows for localization of protein loss. Hypothesis/Objectives To investigate the feasibility of 99mTc-labeled human serum albumin ( HSA) scintigraphy in dogs with PLE in comparison with control dogs. Animals A total of 8 clinically healthy control research dogs and 7 client-owned dogs with gastrointestinal clinical signs and hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin concentration <2.0 g/dL). Methods Prospective case-control study. After IV injection of 400 MBq freshly prepared 99mTc HSA (30 mg/dog), images of the abdomen were obtained 10, 60, 120, and 240 minutes postinjection. Additional images of the salivary and thyroid glands were obtained to rule out free 99mTc. A scan was considered positive for PLE when radiopharmaceutical exudation was detectable in the intestinal tract. Results Only 1 control dog showed exudation of the radiopharmaceutical into the intestinal tract. No free 99mTc was detected in any dog. In dogs with PLE, focal small intestinal and diffuse small intestinal radiopharmaceutical exudation into the bowel was detected in 2 and 3 dogs, respectively, whereas in 2 dogs, there was disagreement about whether radiopharmaceutical exudation was focal or diffuse. Conclusion and Clinical Importance 99mTc-labeled HSA scintigraphy was feasible to diagnose PLE in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Videofluoroscopic swallow study ( VFSS) is the gold standard for diagnosis of dysphagia in veterinary medicine but lacks standardized protocols that emulate physiologic feeding practices. Age impacts swallow function in humans but has not been evaluated by VFSS in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives To develop a protocol with custom kennels designed to allow free-feeding of 3 optimized formulations of contrast media and diets that address limitations of current VFSS protocols. We hypothesized that dogs evaluated by a free-feeding VFSS protocol would show differences in objective swallow metrics based on age. Animals Healthy juvenile, adult, and geriatric dogs (n = 24). Methods Prospective, experimental study. Custom kennels were developed to maintain natural feeding behaviors during VFSS. Three food consistencies (thin liquid, pureed food, and dry kibble) were formulated with either iohexol or barium to maximize palatability and voluntary prehension. Dogs were evaluated by 16 swallow metrics and compared across age groups. Results Development of a standardized VFSS protocol resulted in successful collection of swallow data in healthy dogs. No significant differences in swallow metrics were observed among age groups. Substantial variability was observed in healthy dogs when evaluated under these physiologic conditions. Features typically attributed to pathologic states, such as gastric reflux, were seen in healthy dogs. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Development of a VFSS protocol that reflects natural feeding practices may allow emulation of physiology resulting in clinical signs of dysphagia. Age did not result in significant changes in swallow metrics, but additional studies are needed, particularly in light of substantial normal variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Effective regurgitant orifice area ( EROA), calculated from the vena contracta width ( VCW) as the narrowest portion of the proximal regurgitant jet, might be used to estimate severity of mitral regurgitation. However, this simplified assumption only holds when the EROA is circular, which might not be true in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease ( MMVD). Hypothesis Effective regurgitant orifice area in dogs with MMVD is noncircular, and using color Doppler real-time 3-dimensional ( RT3D) echocardiography, measured EROA in the en face view will be significantly different from calculated EROA. Animals Hundred and fifty-eight privately owned dogs with naturally occurring MMVD. Materials and Methods Prospective observational study comparing en face view of EROA with calculated EROA using VCW in 4-chamber (4Ch) and 2-chamber (2Ch) view only or combined 4Ch and 2Ch views using RT3D echocardiography. Results The calculated EROA using the 2Ch view showed a systematic underestimation of 17% compared with the measured en face EROA corrected for body surface area. The calculated EROA using 4Ch and 4Ch + 2Ch views showed less agreement with the en face EROA, and the difference between methods increased with increasing EROA. The difference between calculated and measured EROA showed a systematic underestimation of the calculated EROA by 36% (4Ch) and 33% (4Ch + 2Ch), respectively, compared to measured en face EROA. Conclusion and Clinical Importance When replacing measured EROA with calculated EROA using VCW measurements, the 2Ch view is preferred in dogs with MMVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cardiovascular disease has been associated with oxidative stress, which has been suggested to contribute to myocardial remodeling in human patients. Little is known about the relationship between myxomatous mitral valve disease ( MMVD) and oxidative stress in dogs. Objective To determine whether clinical stage of MMVD is associated with changes in the plasma concentrations of certain markers of oxidative stress in clinically healthy dogs and dogs with MMVD. Animals Seventy five privately owned dogs: 59 cavalier King Charles Spaniels ( CKCS) with different severities of MMVD and 16 dogs of different breeds with clinical signs of congestive heart failure ( CHF) caused by MMVD. Methods Markers of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde ( MDA), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox LDL), and vitamin E (α-tocopherol and γ-tocopherol) were measured in plasma and their association with clinical stage of MMVD was assessed by regression analyses. Results Plasma ox LDL concentration was significantly lower in female dogs compared with males ( P = .01). Significantly higher plasma γ-tocopherol concentrations were found in neutered ( P = .003) dogs. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol [ P = .0004] and γ-tocopherol [ P = .003]) was associated with body condition score ( BCS), but the association disappeared when cholesterol was included in the analyses. All markers of oxidative stress ( MDA, ox LDL, and vitamin E) were positively associated with serum cholesterol concentration ( P ≤ .04), but none were associated with clinical stage of MMVD. Conclusions In conclusion, markers of oxidative stress are associated with sex, BCS, neuter status, and cholesterol. The results cannot confirm a relationship between oxidative stress and clinical stage of the disease in dogs with MMVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Development of hypocalcemia after treatment of hyperparathyroidism results in increased costs and risk of poorer outcomes. Previous studies have shown conflicting data about predictors of hypocalcemia after these procedures. Hypothesis/Objectives The objective of this study was to investigate whether ionized calcium ( iCa) concentrations before treatment are predictive of hypocalcemia or its clinical signs after surgical removal or heat ablation in dogs with primary hyperparathyroidism. Animals Fifty-four dogs with primary hyperparathyroidism (29 female, 25 male; 49 retrospective, 5 prospective). Methods Dogs were enrolled if they met the inclusion criteria: persistent hypercalcemia ( iCa >1.41 mmol/L) due to primary hyperparathyroidism and absence of preemptive calcitriol treatment. All dogs were treated with parathyroidectomy (n = 37) or percutaneous ultrasound-guided heat ablation (n = 17). After treatment, iCa was monitored twice daily until plateau or intervention. Results There was a moderate correlation between before-treatment hypercalcemia and after-treatment hypocalcemia. The prospective study was terminated due to ethical concerns given findings in the retrospective section. All dogs were placed into groups according to their pretreatment iCa: 1.46-1.61 mmol/L, 1.62-1.71 mmol/L, iCa 1.72-1.81 mmol/L, or >1.81 mmol/L. After treatment, the mean lowest iCa for each group, respectively, was 1.19, 1.18, 1.13, and 1.01 mmol/L. There was a significant association between higher group and proportion of dogs with iCa <1.00 mmol/L ( P = .014). Conclusions and Clinical Importance This study demonstrates a moderate correlation between iCa concentration before treatment and hypocalcemia after treatment. Dogs with higher initial iCa concentrations should be treated to prevent rapid decline and development of clinical hypocalcemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hydroxyethyl starch ( HES) solutions may cause acute kidney injury ( AKI) in humans. Objective To compare AKI grades in 94 dogs exposed and 90 dogs that were unexposed to 6% HES-130/0.4. Animals Dogs receiving 6% HES-130/0.4 ( HES cohort) or crystalloids (unexposed cohort) between 2013 and 2015. Methods Historical cohort study. Diagnosis, total cumulative dose and total mL/kg of HES administered, time frame of HES administration and serum creatinine concentrations up to 90 days after initiation of HES treatment were retrospectively reviewed. The AKI grades were retrospectively determined by IRIS guidelines. Results Exposed dogs received a median cumulative dose of 69.4 mL/kg (range, 2-429 mL/kg) HES over a median of 4 (range, 1-16) days, resulting in a median dose of 20.7 (range, 2-87) mL/kg/d. Although the cohorts differed in terms of age and diagnosis, AKI grades were not significantly different at the evaluated short- and long-term time points. Results of ordinal logistic regression identified the number of days of HES administration as significantly associated with an increase in AKI grade within 10 days ( P = .038), whereas there was no significant association among HES exposure, HES mL/kg/d, and an increase in AKI grade. Conclusions and Clinical Importance HES-130/0.4-treated dogs were not more prone to develop AKI than HES-untreated, but the number of HES days was significantly associated with an increase in AKI grade within 10 days post- HES administration. The time frame of HES treatment should be kept short. Prospective, randomized clinical trials are required to assess the effect of HES on renal function in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Folate and cobalamin are essential cofactors for homocysteine ( HCY) metabolism. Hyperhomocysteinemia, a multifactorial condition, may reflect B vitamin deficiency and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, thrombosis, and neurodegenerative and chronic gastrointestinal diseases in humans. Hyperhomocysteinemia has been reported in Greyhounds with suspected chronic enteropathy. Objectives To evaluate the frequencies of and the association between hypofolatemia and hyperhomocysteinemia in Greyhounds. Animals Data and serum samples from 559 Greyhounds. Methods Nested case-control study. The frequency of hypofolatemia in Greyhounds was determined by a laboratory database search. The relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia (measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) and hypocobalaminemia and hypofolatemia was evaluated, and its frequency compared between healthy Greyhounds and Greyhounds with thrombosis or chronic diarrhea. Results Hypofolatemia was identified in 172 of 423 (41%) Greyhounds and was more common in hypo- than in normocobalaminemic dogs (49% vs. 35%; P = .0064). Hyperhomocysteinemia was detected in 53 of 78 (68%) of Greyhounds, being more common in hypo- than in normofolatemic dogs (88% vs. 59%; P = .0175). All healthy Greyhounds, 21 of 30 (70%) of dogs with chronic diarrhea and 6 of 8 (75%) of those with thrombosis, were hyperhomocysteinemic. Serum HCY concentrations were inversely correlated with serum folate concentration (ρ = −0.28; P = .0386) and were positively associated with serum albumin concentration (ρ = 0.66; P = .0022). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Hyperhomocysteinemia occurs frequently in the Greyhound population. Its association with hypofolatemia suggests decreased intracellular availability of B vitamins, but the functional implications warrant further investigation. Hyperhomocysteinemia in Greyhounds potentially may serve as a spontaneous canine model to further investigate hyperhomocysteinemia in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is a growing interest in health care of elderly dogs; however, scientific information about physical and laboratory examination findings in this age group is limited. Objectives To describe systolic blood pressure ( SBP), and results of physical examination and laboratory tests in senior and geriatric dogs that were judged by the owner to be healthy. Animals Hundred client-owned dogs. Methods Dogs were prospectively recruited. Owners completed a questionnaire. SBP measurement, physical, orthopedic and neurologic examination, direct fundoscopy and Schirmer tear test were performed. Complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and urinalysis were evaluated. Results Forty-one senior and 59 geriatric dogs were included. Mean SBP was 170 ± 38 mmHg, and 53 dogs had SBP > 160 mmHg. Thirty-nine animals were overweight. A heart murmur was detected in 22, severe calculus in 21 and 1 or more (sub)cutaneous masses in 56 dogs. Thirty-two dogs had increased serum creatinine, 29 hypophosphatemia, 27 increased ALP, 25 increased ALT, and 23 leukopenia. Crystalluria, mostly amorphous crystals, was commonly detected (62/96). Overt proteinuria and borderline proteinuria were detected in 13 and 18 of 97 dogs, respectively. Four dogs had a positive urine bacterial culture. Frequency of orthopedic problems, frequency of (sub)cutaneous masses, and platelet count were significantly higher in geriatric compared with senior dogs. Body temperature, hematocrit, serum albumin, and serum total thyroxine concentration were significantly lower in geriatric compared with senior dogs. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Physical and laboratory abnormalities are common in apparently healthy elderly dogs. Veterinarians play a key role in implementing health screening and improving health care for elderly pets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article presents a case study of a six-year-old female, spayed American Pitbull terrier suffering from progressive lethargy, weakness, and anorexia for three-weeks duration. It discusses the results of the patient animal's physical examination, thoracic auscultation, neurological examination, as well as its abbreviated abdominal and thoracic ultrasound examinations.

Background Ascitic fluids of horses and humans have fibrinolytic activity, independent of the underlying mechanism of fluid formation. Objective To determine whether coagulation and fibrinogenolytic/fibrinolytic activity (ie, low fibrinogen and increased fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products [ FDPs], D-dimer, or both) occur in all types of ascitic fluid in dogs. Animals A total of 70 client-owned dogs with ascites. Methods In this cross-sectional study, dogs were categorized based on the pathophysiology of fluid formation into 4 groups: transudates due to decreased osmotic pressure, transudates due to increased hydrostatic pressure, exudates, and hemorrhagic ascites. Fibrinogen, FDPs, and D-dimer concentrations were measured and then compared in both ascitic fluid and plasma. Results Ten dogs had transudates due to decreased colloid osmotic pressure, 18 had transudates due to increased hydrostatic pressure, 13 had exudates, and 29 had hemorrhagic ascites. Ascitic fibrinogen concentrations (n = 70) were significantly lower (median = 59 mg/dL; range: 59-122 mg/dL) than those in the plasma (median = 168 mg/dL, range: 59-879 mg/dL; P < .0001). Ascitic FDPs concentrations (n = 70) were significantly higher (<5 μg/mL: 3/70 dogs, ≥5 to <20 μg/mL: 11/70 dogs, ≥20 μg/mL: 56/70 dogs) than those in the plasma (<5 μg/mL: 17/70 dogs, ≥5 to <20 μg/mL: 28/70 dogs, ≥20 μg/mL: 25/70 dogs; P < .0001). Ascitic D-dimer concentrations (n = 70) were significantly higher (median = 3.98 μg/mL, range: 0.02-9.19) than those in the plasma (median = 0.11 μg/mL, range: 0.01-4.08; P < .0001). Analysis of the data for each of the 4 different types of ascites showed similar results to those of all the data analyzed together. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Ascitic fluid of dogs has evidence of coagulation activation and fibrinogenolytic/fibrinolytic activity and that this phenomenon occurs independent of the underlying mechanism that leads to the formation of ascites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Leptin and its receptor play a role in several disease processes such as pancreatitis and heart disease. However, their association with gallbladder mucocele ( GBM) in dogs has not been reported. Hypothesis/Objectives To evaluate differences in the expression of leptin and leptin receptor between dogs with and without GBM. Animals Twenty-five healthy dogs, including 9 laboratory beagle dogs, and 22 client-owned dogs with GBM. Methods Serum leptin concentration was determined in blood samples of all dogs by ELISA. Canine gallbladder samples were collected from 9 dogs with GBM that underwent surgery for therapeutic purposes and from 9 healthy laboratory beagle dogs as a normal control group. Samples were analyzed for leptin and leptin receptor mRNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results Serum leptin concentration was significantly higher in dogs with GBM than in healthy dogs (medians of 7.03 and 2.18 ng/mL, respectively; P < .001). Patients with GBM that had undergone surgery had significantly higher serum leptin concentrations than those that had not (medians of 12.2 and 4.09 ng/mL, respectively; P = .001). However, no difference in serum leptin concentration was found between dogs with GBM with or without endocrinopathies. The mRNA expression levels of leptin and its receptor were significantly increased in the gallbladder tissues of dogs with GBM. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Dysregulation of leptin might be involved in the pathophysiology of GBM, and leptin concentrations might be associated with GBM severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Famotidine is an acid suppressant commonly administered to dogs. Prolonged famotidine use in people results in decreased efficacy, but the effect in dogs is unknown. Hypothesis/Objectives To compare the effect of repeated oral administration of famotidine or placebo on intragastric pH and serum gastrin in dogs. We hypothesized that famotidine would have a diminished effect on intragastric pH on day 13 compared to day 1. Animals Six healthy adult colony Beagles. Methods Randomized, 2-factor repeated-measures crossover design. All dogs received oral placebo or 1.0 mg/kg famotidine q12h for 14 consecutive days. Intragastric pH monitoring was used to continuously record intragastric pH on treatment days 1-2 and 12-13. Mean pH as well as mean percentage time ( MPT) that intragastric pH was ≥3 or ≥4 were compared between and within groups by analysis of variance. Serum gastrin was measured on days 0, 3, and 12 for each treatment. Results Continued administration of famotidine resulted in a significant decrease in mean pH, MPT ≥3, and MPT ≥4 ( P < .0001) on day 12 and 13. This resulted in a mean decrease in pH by 1.63 on days 12 and 13 compared to days 1 and 2. Furthermore, a mean decrease of MPT ≥3 and MPT ≥4 by 33 and 45% was observed for the same time period, respectively. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Continued administration of famotidine results in a diminished effect on intragastric pH in dogs. Caution is advised when recommending long-term, daily oral administration of famotidine to dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dogs with spinal cord injury are at increased risk of developing bacteriuria due to increased residual urine volume. Cranberry extract inhibits binding of E. coli to uroepithelial cells, potentially reducing risk of bacteriuria. Hypothesis Cranberry extract reduces risk of bacteriuria in dogs after acute TL- IVDH. Animals Client-owned dogs with acute onset TL- IVDH causing nonambulatory status. Methods Randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded, prospective clinical trial. Dogs with acute TL- IVDH were recruited 48 hours postoperatively and randomized to receive cranberry extract or placebo in a masked fashion. Urine cultures and neurological examinations were performed 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperatively. The number of dogs with bacteriuria (all bacterial species) and bacteriuria ( E. coli) were primary and secondary outcome measures and were evaluated using chi-squared test. Urine antiadhesion activity ( AAA) was measured in a subset (N = 47) and examined in a secondary analysis evaluating additional risk factors for bacteriuria. Results Bacteriuria was detected 17 times in 94 dogs (6 placebo, 11 cranberry, P = .12). There were 7 E. coli. positive cultures (1 placebo, 6 cranberry, P = .09). Dogs in both groups had positive urine AAA (14/21: placebo, 16/26: cranberry), and dogs with urine AAA had significantly fewer E. coli positive cultures (n = 1) than dogs without it (n = 4) ( P = .047). Conclusions and Clinical Importance This clinical trial did not show a benefit of oral cranberry extract but had low power. Cranberry extract supplementation did not impact urine AAA, but a possible association between urine AAA and lower risk of E. coli bacteriuria was identified. Other doses could be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Although pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism ( PDH) is one of the most common endocrinopathies in dogs, the effects of withholding treatment on survival time in dogs with PDH remain unclear. Hypothesis/Objectives The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of treatment in dogs with PDH by comparing survival times between dogs treated with trilostane and untreated dogs. Animals Forty-three dogs diagnosed with PDH at a primary-care hospital in Japan between June 2009 and January 2014. Methods Retrospective cohort study. The medical records of dogs with PDH treated with trilostane (n = 17) or left untreated (n = 26) were reviewed retrospectively. Survival analysis at 2 years after diagnosis of PDH was performed. Results Median survival time for the trilostane group was not reached (95% confidence interval [ CI], 443 days-not applicable) and was significantly longer than the 506 days (95% CI, 292-564 days; P = .016) for the untreated group. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis (including age at diagnosis, basal cortisol concentration at diagnosis, and treatment group) only identified assignment to the untreated group (hazard ratio, 5.01; 95% CI, 1.63-15.44) as associated with increased mortality. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The results of this retrospective cohort study suggest that withholding treatment for dogs with PDH might be associated with a higher risk of death. This represents the largest study to date to report survival times of untreated dogs with PDH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cavalier King Charles spaniels ( CKCSs) are predisposed to degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) and studies have indicated a genetic cause. Animals A total of 8,860 CKCSs were examined at shows or private clinics from 1991 to 2010. Objectives To analyze the effects of a breed scheme for CKCS on the age at which a murmur consistent with DMVD was first detected. Methods The presence or absence of a murmur consistent with mitral regurgitation was noted and age a murmur was first detected recorded. Results A total of 16,887 examinations were performed on 8,860 dogs. The median age dogs developed a murmur were slightly younger in male than female dogs (7.8 versus 8.3 years, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 7.4-8.1 versus 8.0-8.4, P < .001) and cardiologists detected murmurs in younger dogs than did general practitioner ( GP) veterinary surgeons (7.2 versus 8.6 years, 95% CI 7.0-7.4 versus 8.3-8.7 P < .001). In bitches examined by GP vets during the study, there was a significantly increased age of detection of murmurs over time (8.6-9.2 years, 95% CI 8.3-9.1 and 8.5-10.9, P = .001) but not for male dogs examined by GP vets or dogs of either sex examined by cardiologists. Conclusions and Clinical Importance This study suggests that the age incidence of murmurs associated with DMVD might be increased by application of breeding guidelines based on auscultation alone. This benefit was only seen in a subgroup and compliance of breeders with this voluntary scheme was poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Leptospirosis in dogs is occasionally associated with a hemorrhagic syndrome, the pathophysiology of which is not fully understood. Hypothesis/Objectives To characterize hematologic, hemostatic, and thromboelastometric abnormalities in dogs with leptospirosis and to study their association with hemorrhagic diatheses and outcomes. Animals Thirty-five client-owned dogs. Methods A prospective observational single cohort study was conducted. Results from the CBC, coagulation tests (prothrombin, activated partial thromboplastin and thrombin times, fibrinogen, fibrin(ogen) degradation products, and D-dimer concentrations), rotational thromboelastometry ( TEM), signalment, hemorrhagic diatheses, occurrence of disseminated intravascular coagulation ( DIC) at admission, and survival to discharge were recorded. Results The most common hematologic and hemostatic abnormalities were anemia (30/35), thrombocytopenia (21/35), and hyperfibrinogenemia (15/35). Eight dogs were diagnosed with DIC. A normal TEM profile was found in 14 dogs, a hypercoagulable profile in 14 dogs, and a hypocoagulable profile in 7 dogs. The 8 dogs with hemorrhagic diatheses at admission had significantly decreased platelet counts ( P = .037) and increased D-dimer concentrations ( P = .015) compared with other dogs. Dogs with a hypocoagulable profile exhibited more hemorrhagic diatheses compared with the dogs that had normal and hypercoagulable profiles ( P = .049). The mortality rate was lower in dogs with a hypercoagulable profile than in those with a hypocoagulable profile (21% vs 57%; P = .043). Disseminated intravascular coagulation was not a significant prognostic factor. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Thromboelastometric parameters were altered in dogs with both hypercoagulable and hypocoagulable profiles. A hypocoagulable profile was significantly correlated with hemorrhagic diathesis and higher mortality rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Effective treatments are needed for idiopathic chronic rhinitis in dogs, but assessment of efficacy requires a practical, quantifiable method for assessing severity of disease. Objectives To develop and perform initial validity and reliability testing of an owner-completed questionnaire for assessing clinical signs and dog and owner quality of life ( QOL) in canine chronic rhinitis. Animals Twenty-two dogs with histopathologically confirmed chronic rhinitis and 72 healthy dogs. Methods In this prospective study, an online questionnaire was created based on literature review and feedback from veterinarians, veterinary internists with respiratory expertise, and owners of dogs with rhinitis. Owners of affected dogs completed the questionnaire twice, 1 week apart, to test reliability. Healthy dogs were assessed once. Data were analyzed using the Rasch Rating Scale Model, and results were interpreted using Messick's framework for evaluating construct validity evidence. Results Initial item generation resulted in 5 domains: nasal signs, paranasal signs, global rhinitis severity, and dog's and owner's QOL. A 25-item questionnaire was developed using 5-point Likert-type scales. No respondent found the questionnaire difficult to complete. Strong psychometric evidence was available to support the substantive, generalizability, content, and structural aspects of construct validity. Statistical differences were found between responses for affected and control dogs for all but 2 items. These items were eliminated, resulting in the 23-item Severity of Nasal Inflammatory Disease ( SNIFLD) questionnaire. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The SNIFLD questionnaire provides a mechanism for repeated assessments of disease severity in dogs with chronic rhinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acute-phase proteins ( APPs) are sensitive markers of inflammation, and serum C-reactive protein ( CRP) recently has been shown to be a useful diagnostic marker in dogs with bacterial pneumonia ( BP). In humans with community-acquired pneumonia, APPs also have great utility as follow-up markers aiding in the assessment of treatment response. Objectives The aim of our study was to investigate the applicability of APPs as markers of treatment response in dogs with BP. Animals Nineteen dogs diagnosed with BP and 64 healthy dogs. Methods The study was conducted as a prospective longitudinal observational study. Serum CRP, serum amyloid A ( SAA), and haptoglobin concentrations were followed during a natural course of BP. Normalization of serum CRP was used to guide the duration of antibiotic treatment (treatment was stopped 5-7 days after CRP normalized) in 8 of 17 dogs surviving to discharge; 9 of 17 dogs were treated according to conventional recommendations. Results All measured APPs initially were significantly increased, but the magnitude of increase was not correlated to disease severity. C-reactive protein and SAA concentrations decreased rapidly after initiation of antimicrobial treatment. When normalization of serum CRP was used to guide the duration of antibiotic treatment, treatment duration was significantly ( P = .015) decreased without increasing the number of relapses. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Serum CRP and SAA reflected the recovery process well and therefore may be used as markers of treatment response. According to the results, the normalization of serum CRP may be used to guide the duration of antibiotic treatment in dogs with BP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 10-month-old spayed female Cane Corso dog was evaluated after a 2-month history of progressive blindness, ataxia, and lethargy. Neurologic examination abnormalities indicated a multifocal lesion with primarily cerebral and cerebellar signs. Clinical worsening resulted in humane euthanasia. On necropsy, there was marked astrogliosis throughout white matter tracts of the cerebrum, most prominently in the corpus callosum. In the cerebral cortex and midbrain, most neurons contained large amounts of autofluorescent storage material in the perinuclear area of the cells. Cerebellar storage material was present in the Purkinje cells, granular cell layer, and perinuclear regions of neurons in the deep nuclei. Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis ( NCL) was diagnosed. Whole genome sequencing identified a PPT1c.124 + 1G>A splice donor mutation. This nonreference assembly allele was homozygous in the affected dog, has not previously been reported in db SNP, and was absent from the whole genome sequences of 45 control dogs and 31 unaffected Cane Corsos. Our findings indicate a novel mutation causing the CLN1 form of NCL in a previously unreported dog breed. A canine model for CLN1 disease could provide an opportunity for therapeutic advancement, benefiting both humans and dogs with this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Up to 25% of elderly humans have proteinuria, often associated with underlying lesions. Data concerning the presence of proteinuria in elderly dogs is scarce. Objectives To describe the presence and persistence of proteinuria and to compare urinary protein : creatinine ratio ( UPC) between free catch and cystocentesis urine samples in apparently healthy elderly dogs. Animals Hundred apparently healthy elderly dogs. Methods Prospective study. Owners of 100 elderly dogs were asked to collect 2 free catch urine samples. Dogs were considered healthy based on owner's perception and an age chart, based on ideal bodyweight, was used to define dogs as senior or geriatric. UPC of urine collected by free catch and cystocentesis were compared. Overt proteinuria and borderline proteinuria were defined as UPC >0.5 and between 0.2 and 0.5, respectively, if examination of sediment did not explain proteinuria. Proteinuria was considered persistent if present at both sampling times. Results At baseline, 71 owners succeeded in collecting urine. Eleven percent of dogs had overt proteinuria, 14% were borderline proteinuric, and 75% nonproteinuric. Thirty-seven repeated urine samples, with a median time interval of 31 days (range 10-90), were available. Nineteen percent of dogs had a persistently increased UPC (>0.2), with persistent overt proteinuria present in 8%. A strong correlation (ρ = 0.88) was found between UPC of urine collected by free catch and cystocentesis. Conclusions and Clinical Importance As 19% of study dogs had persistent proteinuria, our findings emphasize that measurement of proteinuria should be part of geriatric health screening. For UPC in dogs, free catch urine provides a good alternative to cystocentesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common problem in small-animal patients and carries a guarded prognosis with substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly in oligoanuric dogs. Fenoldopam, a selective dopamine agonist, has been shown to increase urine output in healthy dogs and cats; however, the mechanism of action is unknown. Hypothesis/Objectives To evaluate the effect of fenoldopam infusion on glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and fractional excretion of sodium (FeNa) in healthy dogs. Animals Ten healthy, privately owned dogs. Methods Randomized, crossover design with negative control. Ten healthy dogs were given fenoldopam diluted in 5% dextrose (D5W) as a continuous IV infusion of 0.8 μg/kg/min for 5 hours and a control infusion of D5W alone, 7 days apart. Glomerular filtration rate was measured by exogenous iohexol clearance, beginning 1 hour after the start of the fenoldopam infusion. Fractional excretion of sodium (FeNa) was measured before and after the infusion. Glomerular filtration rate and change in FeNa were compared between treatment days. Results Fenoldopam infusion resulted in a significantly increased ( P = .0166) GFR (median GFR, 3.33 mL/min/kg) in healthy dogs compared with D5W infusion (median GFR, 2.71 mL/kg/min). Fenoldopam also resulted in a significantly increased ( P = .0148) FeNa (mean change, 0.106), whereas infusion of D5W alone did not (mean change, 0.016). Conclusions and Clinical Importance In healthy dogs, fenoldopam significantly increased GFR and FeNa compared with infusion of D5W alone. No adverse effects were seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on megaesophagus research examining the efficacy of intermediate esophageal suctioning for preventing regurgitation and aspiration pneumonia (AP) associated with megaesophagus. It states four dogs with acquired idiopathic megaesophagus and recurrent AP had intermittent suctioning of the esophagus initiated after a strict gastrostomy feeding tube failed to prevent regurgitation resulting in repeated episodes of AP. It mentions the dogs survived for a range of 10 to 30 months.

Management of persistent lower urinary tract dysfunction resulting from severe thoracolumbar spinal cord injury can be challenging. Severe suprasacral spinal cord injury releases the spinal cord segmental micturition reflex from supraspinal modulation and increases nerve growth factor concentration in the bladder wall, lumbosacral spinal cord, and dorsal root ganglion, which subsequently activates hypermechanosensitive C-fiber bladder wall afferents. Hyperexcitability of bladder afferents and detrusor overactivity can cause urine leaking during the storage phase. During urine voiding, the loss of supraspinal control that normally coordinates detrusor contraction with sphincter relaxation can lead to spinal cord segmental reflex-mediated simultaneous detrusor and sphincter contractions or detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia, resulting in inefficient urine voiding and high residual volume. These disease-associated changes can impact on the quality of life and life expectancy of spinal-injured animals. Here, we discuss the pathophysiology and management considerations of lower urinary tract dysfunction as the result of severe, acute, suprasacral spinal cord injury. In addition, drawing from experimental, preclinical, and clinical medicine, we introduce some treatment options for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction that are designed to: (1) prevent urine leakage arising because of detrusor overactivity during bladder filling, (2) preserve upper urinary tract integrity and function by reducing intravesical pressure and subsequent vesicoureteral reflux, and (3) prevent urinary tract and systemic complications by treating and preventing urinary tract infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an age of advancing endoscopic and lithotripsy technologies, the management of urolithiasis poses a unique opportunity to advance compassionate veterinary care, not only for patients with urolithiasis but for those with other urinary diseases as well. The following are consensus-derived, research and experience-supported, patient-centered recommendations for the treatment and prevention of uroliths in dogs and cats utilizing contemporary strategies. Ultimately, we hope that these recommendations will serve as a foundation for ongoing and future clinical research and inspiration for innovative problem solving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There are breed differences in several blood variables in healthy dogs. Objective Investigate breed variation in plasma endothelin-1 ( ET-1) concentration, plasma renin activity, and serum cortisol concentration. Animals Five-hundred and thirty-one healthy dogs of 9 breeds examined at 5 centers (2-4 breeds/center). Methods Prospective observational study. Circulating concentrations of ET-1 and cortisol, and renin activity, were measured using commercially available assays. Absence of organ-related or systemic disease was ensured by thorough clinical investigations, including blood pressure measurement, echocardiography, ECG, blood and urine analysis. Results Median ET-1 concentration was 1.29 (interquartile range [ IQR], 0.97-1.82) pg/mL, median cortisol concentration 46.0 ( IQR, 29.0-80.8) nmol/L, and median renin activity 0.73 ( IQR, 0.48-1.10) ng/ mL/h in all dogs. Overall, breed differences were found in ET-1 and cortisol concentrations, and renin activity ( P < .0001 for all). Pair-wise comparisons between breeds differed in 67% of comparisons for ET-1, 22% for cortisol, and 19% for renin activity, respectively. Within centers, breed differences were found at 5/5 centers for ET-1, 4/5 centers for cortisol, and 2/5 centers for renin activity. Newfoundlands had highest median ET-1 concentration, 3 times higher than Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, and Dachshunds. Median renin activity was highest in Dachshunds, twice the median value in Newfoundlands and Boxers. Median cortisol concentration was highest in Finnish Lapphunds, almost 3 times higher than in Boxers. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Breed variation might be important to take into consideration when interpreting test results in clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Sucralfate impairs absorption of ciprofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones in humans, but no sucralfate-fluoroquinolone interaction has been reported in dogs. Veterinary formularies recommend avoiding concurrent administration of these medications, which might impact compliance, therapeutic success, and resistance selection from fluoroquinolones. Objectives To determine whether a drug interaction exists when sucralfate is administered to fed dogs concurrently with ciprofloxacin or enrofloxacin, and whether a 2 hour delay between fluoroquinolone and sucralfate affects fluoroquinolone absorption. Animals Five healthy Greyhounds housed in a research colony. Methods This was a randomized crossover study. Treatments included oral ciprofloxacin (C) or oral enrofloxacin (E) alone, each fluoroquinolone concurrently with an oral suspension of sucralfate ( CS, ES), and sucralfate suspension 2 hours after each fluoroquinolone (C2S, E2S). Fluoroquinolone concentrations were evaluated using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Results Drug exposure of ciprofloxacin was highly variable ( AUC 5.52-22.47 h μg/mL) compared to enrofloxacin ( AUC 3.86-7.50 h μg/mL). The mean relative bioavailability for ciprofloxacin and concurrent sucralfate was 48% (range 8-143%) compared to ciprofloxacin alone. Relative bioavailability of ciprofloxacin improved to 87% (range 37-333%) when sucralfate was delayed by 2 hours. By contrast, relative bioavailability for enrofloxacin and concurrent sucralfate was 104% (94-115%). Conclusions and Clinical Importance A possible clinically relevant drug interaction for the relative bioavailability of ciprofloxacin with sucralfate was found. No significant difference in bioavailability was documented for enrofloxacin with sucralfate. Further research is warranted in fasted dogs and clinical cases requiring enrofloxacin or other approved fluoroquinolones in combination with sucralfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Most weight loss studies in obese dogs assess rate and percentage of weight loss in the first 2-3 months, rather than the likelihood of successfully reaching target weight. Objective To determine outcome of controlled weight loss programs for obese dogs, and to determine the factors associated with successful completion. Animals 143 obese dogs undergoing a controlled weight loss program. Methods This was a cohort study of obese dogs attending a referral weight management clinic. Dogs were studied during their period of weight loss, and cases classified according to outcome as 'completed' (reached target weight), 'euthanized' (was euthanized before reaching target weight), or 'stopped prematurely' (program stopped early for other reasons). Factors associated with successful completion were assessed using simple and multiple logistic regression. Results 87/143 dogs (61%) completed their weight loss program, 11 [8%] died or were euthanized, and the remaining 45 [32%] stopped prematurely. Reasons for dogs stopping prematurely included inability to contact owner, refusal to comply with weight management advice, or development of another illness. Successful weight loss was positively associated with a faster rate ( P < .001), a longer duration ( P < .001), and feeding a dried weight management diet ( P = .010), but negatively associated with starting body fat ( P < .001), and use of dirlotapide ( P = .0046). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Just over half of all obese dogs on a controlled weight loss program reach their target weight. Future studies should better clarify reasons for success in individual cases, and also the role of factors such as activity and behavioral modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The ACTH stimulation test is used to evaluate the adrenocortical reserve. Recently, the availability of the synthetic ACTH formulation was limited, causing major problems in clinical practice. Objectives The objective of this study was to evaluate poststimulation peak cortisol concentrations and the duration of the stimulatory effect of a depot ACTH preparation in dogs. Animals Twenty-two healthy dogs, 10 dogs with suspected hypoadrenocorticism ( HA) and 15 dogs with suspected hyperadrenocorticism ( HC). Methods Prospective study. An ACTH stimulation test using a synthetic depot tetracosactide, administered intramuscularly (5 μg/kg or at least 0.1 mL) was performed. Blood samples for determination of cortisol were taken immediately before and 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 24 hours after stimulation. Results Peak cortisol concentrations were reached after 2-4 hours in all dogs. Cortisol concentrations 1 hour after stimulation were >9 μg/dL in all healthy dogs and >5 μg/dL in all dogs in which HA was excluded. None of the dogs with HA showed a cortisol-increase above the detection-limit of the assay. After 6 hours, cortisol concentrations had decreased in the healthy and HC group and were back to baseline after 24 hours. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The depot formulation can be used in place of the short-acting ACTH to evaluate the adrenocortical reserve. Blood for peak cortisol concentrations should be drawn 3 hours after stimulation in cases in which HC is suspected; in HA-suspected cases, blood sampling can take place after 1 hour. As the stimulatory effect is gone after 24 hours, interference with other hormonal tests is unlikely after that time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Lagotto Romagnolo ( LR) dogs with benign juvenile epilepsy syndrome often experience spontaneous remission of seizures. The long-term outcome in these dogs currently is unknown. In humans, behavioral and psychiatric comorbidities have been reported in pediatric and adult-onset epilepsies. Hypothesis/Objectives The objectives of this study were to investigate possible neurobehavioral comorbidities in LR with a history of benign familial juvenile epilepsy ( BFJE) and to assess the occurrence of seizures after the remission of seizures in puppyhood. Animals A total of 25 LR with a history of BFJE and 91 control dogs of the same breed. Methods Owners of the LR dogs in the BFJE and control groups completed an online questionnaire about each dog's activity, impulsivity, and inattention. Principal component analysis ( PCA) served to extract behavioral factors from the data. We then compared the scores of these factors between the 2 groups in a retrospective case-control study. We also interviewed all dog owners in the BFJE group by telephone to inquire specifically about possible seizures or other neurological problems after remission of seizures as a puppy. Results Lagotto Romagnolo dogs with BFJE showed significantly higher scores on the factors Inattention and Excitability/Impulsivity than did the control group ( P = .003; P = .021, respectively). Only 1 of the 25 BFJE LR exhibited seizures after remission of epilepsy in puppyhood. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Although the long-term seizure outcome in BFJE LR seems to be good, the dogs exhibit behavioral abnormalities resembling attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD) in humans, thus suggesting neurobehavioral comorbidities with epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Intensive care units ( ICUs) in human hospitals are consistently noisy environments with sound levels sufficient to substantially decrease sleep quality. Sound levels in veterinary ICUs have not been studied previously, but environmental sound has been shown to alter activity in healthy dogs. Hypothesis Veterinary ICUs, like those in human medicine, will exceed international guidelines for hospital noise. Animals NA. Methods Prospective, observational study performed consecutively and simultaneously over 4 weeks in 2 veterinary ICUs. Conventional A-weighted sound pressure levels (equivalent continuous level [a reflection of average sound], the sound level that is exceeded 90% of the recording period time [reflective of background noise], and maximum sound levels) were continuously recorded and the number of spikes in sound >80 dBA were manually counted. Results Noise levels were comparable to ICUs in human hospitals. The equivalent continuous sound level was higher in ICU1 than in ICU2 at every time point compared, with greatest differences observed on week day ( ICU1, 60.1 ± 3.7 dBA; ICU2, 55.9 ± 2.5 dBA, P < .001) and weekend nights ( ICU1, 59.9 ± 2.4 dBA; ICU2, 53.4 ± 1.7 dBA, P < .0001) reflecting a 50% difference in loudness. Similar patterns were observed for the maximum and background noise levels. The number of sound spikes was up to 4 times higher in ICU1 (162.3 ± 84.9 spikes) than in ICU2 (40.4 ± 12.2 spikes, P = .001). Conclusions and Clinical Importance These findings show that sound in veterinary ICUs is loud enough to potentially disrupt sleep in critically ill veterinary patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The liver sampling technique in dogs that consistently provides samples adequate for accurate histopathologic interpretation is not known. Hypothesis/Objectives To compare histopathologic results of liver samples obtained by punch, cup, and 14 gauge needle to large wedge samples collected at necropsy. Animals Seventy dogs undergoing necropsy. Methods Prospective study. Liver specimens were obtained from the left lateral liver lobe with an 8 mm punch, a 5 mm cup, and a 14 gauge needle. After sample acquisition, two larger tissue samples were collected near the center of the left lateral lobe to be used as a histologic standard for comparison. Histopathologic features and numbers of portal triads in each sample were recorded. Results The mean number of portal triads obtained by each sampling method were 2.9 in needle samples, 3.4 in cup samples, 12 in punch samples, and 30.7 in the necropsy samples. The diagnoses in 66% of needle samples, 60% of cup samples, and 69% of punch samples were in agreement with the necropsy samples, and these proportions were not significantly different from each other. The corresponding kappa coefficients were 0.59 for needle biopsies, 0.52 for cup biopsies, and 0.62 for punch biopsies. Conclusion and Clinical Importance The histopathologic interpretation of a liver sample in the dog is unlikely to vary if the liver biopsy specimen contains at least 3-12 portal triads. However, in comparison large necropsy samples, the accuracy of all tested methods was relatively low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Synthetic colloids are often used during fluid resuscitation and affect coagulation. Objective To compare the effects of an isotonic crystalloid and synthetic colloid on coagulation in healthy dogs and dogs with systemic inflammation. Animals Sixteen adult purpose-bred Beagles. Methods Randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded study. Dogs were randomized into one of two groups receiving fluid resuscitation with either 40 mL/kg IV 0.9% NaCl or tetrastarch after administration of lipopolysaccharide or an equal volume of placebo. After a 14-day washout period, the study was repeated such that dogs received the opposite treatment (LPS or placebo) but the same resuscitation fluid. Blood samples were collected at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 24 hours for measurement of coagulation variables. Results Administration of either fluid to healthy dogs and dogs with systemic inflammation resulted in similar increases in prothrombin time and activated clotting time. In comparison to saline administration, tetrastarch administration resulted in significantly decreased R ( P = .017) in healthy dogs, as well as significantly increased activated partial thromboplastin time ( P ≤ .016), CL30% ( P ≤ .016), and K ( P < .001) and significantly decreased platelet count ( P = .019), α ( P ≤ .001), MA ( P < .001), and von Willebrand factor antigen ( P < .001) and collagen binding activity ( P ≤ .003) in both healthy dogs and dogs with systemic inflammation. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Tetrastarch bolus administration to dogs with systemic inflammation resulted in a transient hypocoagulability characterized by a prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, decreased clot formation speed and clot strength, and acquired type 1 von Willebrand disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Although gastroesophageal reflux ( GER) often is assumed to be causative for upper gastrointestinal and respiratory signs in dogs, no attempts have been made to verify this assumption. Objectives To monitor esophageal pH with the Bravo pH system in healthy dogs and client-owned dogs displaying signs commonly attributed to GER. Animals Seven healthy and 22 client-owned dogs. Methods After routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy, radiotelemetric pH capsules were placed in distal esophagus for continuous pH recording. Reflux was defined as single pH measurement <4. At discharge, owners were instructed to press individually predefined clinical sign-buttons on the receiver whenever indicated. Results between groups were compared using Mann-Whitney U-test. Results The median (range) number of refluxes in client-owned and healthy dogs, respectively, was 17 (1-205) and 10 (1-65), the number of refluxes >5 minutes in duration was 1 (0-14), and 1 (0-4), duration of longest reflux (min) was 10 (0-65) and 8 (0-27), and fractional time pH <4 (%) was 0.76% (0.01-6.28), and 0.3% (0-3.1). No differences were found between groups. The median of 7 (1-35) clinical sign-button pushes were recorded in 21 dogs. Median of 12.5% (2.8% [1/35]-50% [2/4]) reflux-positive clinical sign-button pushes was found in 10 dogs with reflux-positive pushes. Five (22.7%) dogs had increased esophageal acid exposure, and mild esophagitis was noted in 1 dog. Conclusion and Clinical Importance Despite evidence of increased GER in some dogs, the clinical sign-reflux association remained poor. Future investigation should focus on dogs with esophagitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The gastrointestinal ( GI) microbiota has a strong impact on the health of cats and these populations can be altered in GI disease. Little research has been done to associate improvement in diarrhea with changes in GI microbiota. Objective To evaluate GI microbiota changes associated with diet change and related improvement in diarrhea in cats with chronic naturally occurring diarrhea. Animals Fifteen adult Domestic Shorthair cats with naturally occurring chronic diarrhea. Methods Controlled crossover dietary trial for management of diarrhea. Fecal microbiome was assessed using 454-pyrosequencing. Relationships among fecal score ( FS), diet, and microbiome were explored using partial least square method, partial least square method - discriminant analysis, and orthogonal partial least square method with discriminant analysis ( OPLS- DA). Results Dominant bacterial phyla included the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, followed by Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, and Actinobacteria. Orthogonal partial least squares ( OPLS- DA) clustering showed significant microbial differences within cats when fed Diet X versus Diet Y, and with Diet Y versus baseline. Significant correlations were found between the microbiome and FSs. Those bacteria with the strongest correlation with FS included Coriobacteriaceae Slackia spp., Campylobacter upsaliensis, Enterobacteriaceae Raoultella spp., Coriobacteriaceae Collinsella spp., and bacteria of unidentified genera within the families of Clostridiales Lachnospiracea and Aeromonadales Succinivibrionacease, suggesting that increased numbers of these organisms may be important to gut health. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Alterations in intestinal microbiota were associated with improvement in diarrhea, but, from our data we cannot conclude if changes in the microbiome caused the improvement in diarrhea, or vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Some dogs with primary hypoadrenocorticism ( HA) have normal sodium and potassium concentrations, a phenomenon called atypical Addison's disease. The assumption that the zona glomerulosa and aldosterone secretion in these dogs are normal seems widely accepted; however, aldosterone measurements are missing in most published cases. Objectives To measure aldosterone in dogs with HA with and without electrolyte abnormalities and to determine the time point of aldosterone peak concentrations during ACTH stimulation. Animals Seventy dogs with HA, 22 dogs with diseases mimicking HA, and 19 healthy dogs. Methods Prospective study. Blood samples were taken before and 60 minutes after injection of 250 μg ACTH in all dogs. Additional blood samples were taken 15, 30, and 45 minutes after ACTH in 7 dogs with HA and in 22 with diseases mimicking HA. Results Baseline and ACTH-stimulated aldosterone was significantly lower in dogs with HA than in the other groups. Aldosterone was low or undetectable in 67/70 dogs with HA independently of sodium and potassium levels. In 3 dogs, sodium/potassium concentrations were normal; in 1 dog, sodium was normal and potassium decreased. In all 4, ACTH-stimulated aldosterone concentrations were below the detection limit of the assay. Aldosterone concentrations were not different at 30, 45, or 60 minutes after ACTH administration. Conclusion and Clinical Importance Cortisol and aldosterone secretion is compromised in dogs with HA with and without electrolyte abnormalities. The term atypical Addison's disease, used for dogs with primary HA and normal electrolytes, must be reconsidered; other mechanisms allowing normal electrolyte balance without aldosterone should be evaluated in these dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite the popularity of canine blood donor ( BD) programs, there is scarce scientific information regarding iron status in this canine population of dogs. Objective To assess iron status in dogs used in a blood donor program. Animals A total of 130 healthy dogs (75 BD, 55 controls [C]) were included. A subset of dogs (n = 12) were used to evaluate the effects of repetitive donations by having a second and more recent sample analyzed. Methods Serum iron concentration ( SI), unsaturated iron-binding capacity ( UIBC), total iron-binding capacity ( TIBC), and percentage transferrin saturation (% SAT) were obtained. Values were compared using a 2-way ANOVA (factors: BD status, breed). For the subset of BD, the first sample (less frequent donors - LD-, after a mean of 3.8 donations) was compared to a second sample (experienced donors - ED-, mean 13.6 donations) using a paired t-test. Results SI (183.7 ± 55.3 μg/dL) and % SAT (55.7 ± 17.4%) were higher and UIBC (152.6 ± 73.3 μg/dL) was lower in BD dogs than in C (153.9 ± 51.7 μg/dL, 43.8 ± 17.8%, and 224.1 ± 120.6 μg/dL, respectively). Also, UIBC and TIBC were lower, and % SAT higher in Greyhounds when compared with non-Greyhounds. ED had decreased % SAT and increased UIBC and TIBC when compared with LD. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Our canine BD population did not have iron deficiency and had higher SI concentration than C. However, ED (~14 consecutive blood donations every ~8 weeks) developed a mild iron deficiency, although values were still within canine reference intervals. Greyhounds have higher % SAT than non-Greyhounds, which might be a breed-specific peculiarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Boxer dogs are predisposed to congenital and adult onset cardiac diseases. Breed-specific reference values for M-mode and Doppler echocardiographic measurements previously have been established. Left ventricular ( LV) end-systolic ( ESV) and end-diastolic volumes ( EDV) can be measured by M-mode or two-dimensional methods, such as Simpson's method of discs ( SMOD). Reference ranges for SMOD-derived LV volumes are lacking. Objectives To determine reference intervals for EDV and ESV in Boxer dogs. Animals Previously collected data from 85 healthy Boxers (37 males and 48 females) were used for analysis. Methods Simpson's method of discs-derived EDV and ESV were measured using offline analysis by 1 observer, in both the right parasternal and the left apical views. Measurements were compared between both views and between male and female dogs using a t-test. Reference intervals were established using the mean + 2 × SD. Results Measurements obtained from both views showed good agreement, and mean EDVI and ESVI, indexed to body surface area ( BSA), were calculated. Reference intervals were 49-93 mL/m² for EDVI, and 22-50 mL/m² for ESVI. EDV and ESV were significantly higher in males compared with females, when indexing to BSA, but not when indexing to body weight. Conclusion and Clinical Importance The upper limit for ESVI exceeds the previously suggested cut-off of 30 mL/m² for detection of systolic dysfunction. The reference intervals generated in this study should be useful clinically in the assessment of LV size and function in Boxer dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Catamenial epilepsy in humans is defined as changes in seizure frequency over the course of the menstrual cycle. Three hormonally based patterns of seizure exacerbation have been determined. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there is an association between onset of seizures and the estrous cycle in intact bitches with presumptive idiopathic epilepsy and whether a pattern to the onset of seizures could be recognized. Animals Forty-five intact female dogs from a hospital population with a presumptive diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy. Methods In a retrospective study, the database of a small animal hospital in Sweden was searched for medical records of intact female dogs diagnosed with epilepsy or seizures. The stage of the estrous cycle as reported either by the owner or the veterinarian at the time of the first seizure was noted. Results Of the 45 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy, 17 (38%) had their first seizure when in heat and six dogs (13%) had their first seizure 1-3 months after heat. Nine dogs (20%) had seizures reoccurring in relation to their estrous cycle. Conclusions and Clinical Importance These findings suggest an association between estrus and onset of seizures in intact bitches with presumptive idiopathic epilepsy. Two hormonally based patterns could be recognized: one during heat and one during a specific time point at the end of diestrus. This could be explained by the proconvulsive effects of estrogen or loss of protective effect against seizures of progesterone, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]