A 7-year-old spayed female Corgi dog was presented for care 1.5 h after ingestion of chocolate brownies (theobromine dosage: 88.3 mg/kg, BW). Physical examination revealed mild tachycardia and hyperthermia. Vomiting was...A 7-year-old spayed female Corgi dog was presented for care 1.5 h after ingestion of chocolate brownies (theobromine dosage: 88.3 mg/kg, BW). Physical examination revealed mild tachycardia and hyperthermia. Vomiting was induced, and the dog was treated with maropitant and activated charcoal with sorbitol (1.9 g/kg, BW, PO) prior to ER transfer. Tremors and seizures were noted 4.5 h following ingestion. Despite rehydration, treatment with activated charcoal containing no sorbitol (0.9 g/kg, BW, PO) resulted in the dog's serum sodium concentration quickly elevating [Na: 174 mmol/L; reference range (RR): 144 to 160 mmol/L]. The dog developed neurologic signs and azotemia. Treatment included customized fluid therapy, anticonvulsant medications, positive pressure ventilation, and administration of emergency drugs related to a near-arrest event. With continued care, the dog was discharged 57 h following admission. One month following discharge, the dog had mild vestibular signs remaining that resolved 10 mo after discharge. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case that documents a dog developing severe hypernatremia following activated charcoal therapy related to chocolate toxicosis. The case details may be helpful to clinicians treating similar complex toxicity, those interested in potential neurologic recovery following severe hypernatremia, and those who are seeking insights into risk factors for developing hypernatremia with activated charcoal therapy. Key clinical message: A case of chocolate toxicity and severe hypernatremia following activated charcoal therapy highlights that patients which have ingested an osmotically active toxin, such as chocolate, especially those at risk of dehydration, may be at increased risk for hypernatremia following activated charcoal therapy. If activated charcoal is used in such complex cases, frequent monitoring of patient's electrolytes and neurologic status is recommended to minimize the risk of development of life-threatening hypernatremia.
Thymoma is a common neoplasm of goats; however, literature regarding the best imaging modalities for diagnosis is scarce. In this case, multiple modalities were used during antemortem examination to develop a working dia...Thymoma is a common neoplasm of goats; however, literature regarding the best imaging modalities for diagnosis is scarce. In this case, multiple modalities were used during antemortem examination to develop a working diagnosis of a mediastinal mass as the cause of acute respiratory distress in a doe. Computed tomography was subsequently used in conjunction with postmortem examination to fully characterize the mass and confirm metastatic thymoma. This case emphasized how important advanced imaging can be for diagnosis and guiding treatment decisions; furthermore, it highlighted that a combination of alternatives can be used in settings where cross-sectional imaging is not available or feasible. Key clinical message: This report highlights alternative imaging modalities, such as thoracic fluoroscopy, available to diagnose thoracic masses in goats when advanced imaging may not be available or feasible.
A case of postpartum spontaneous hepatic bleeding in a dog is described and compared to a similar condition that occurs in humans (HELLP syndrome). The bitch developed vague symptoms of weakness and anorexia 7 d postpart...A case of postpartum spontaneous hepatic bleeding in a dog is described and compared to a similar condition that occurs in humans (HELLP syndrome). The bitch developed vague symptoms of weakness and anorexia 7 d postpartum. Clinical pathology test identified anemia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated alkaline phosphatase. An ultrasound examination revealed peritoneal effusion with fluid analysis, consistent with a hemoabdomen. Exploratory laparotomy identified hepatic bleeding from multiple liver lobes as well as a friable uterus. No other abnormalities were detected. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of postpartum spontaneous hepatic bleeding in a dog. Key clinical message: In this report, we describe and compare the findings in this case to a well-described condition (HELLP syndrome) in humans that also causes hepatic bleeding as a severe complication.
An 11-year-old spayed female terrier mix dog weighing 6.38 kg was presented to the emergency department of a large specialty hospital for hyporexia and lethargy. The dog was diagnosed with a perforated duodenal mass. On...An 11-year-old spayed female terrier mix dog weighing 6.38 kg was presented to the emergency department of a large specialty hospital for hyporexia and lethargy. The dog was diagnosed with a perforated duodenal mass. On exploratory laparotomy, a perforated mass along the duodenal flexure was identified, an intestinal resection and anastomosis was performed, and a nasogastric tube was placed. Two days after surgery, the dog erroneously received 16 mL of a commercially formulated liquid diet through a triple-lumen jugular catheter. When the medical error was detected, 4 mL of diet and blood was aspirated from the jugular catheter. The catheter tip and a sample of the diet were submitted for culture. Culture results of the catheter revealed no growth, but the food grew methicillin-resistant staphylococcus. At 5 d following the inadvertent administration, the dog was discharged on clindamycin 11 mg/kg, q12h and cefpodoxime 7.5 mg/kg, PO, q12h for 10 d. Histopathology of small intestinal mass was consistent with large cell lymphoma. The dog was re-evaluated 2 wk following surgery and was doing well. Key clinical message: Inadvertent intravenous administration of enteral feed is a serious medical error; however, this case report serves to describe a successful outcome.
Hill SV, Del Rocio Amezcua M, Ribeiro ES
… +2 more, O'Sullivan TL, Friendship RM
Can Vet J
· 2025 Oct · PMID 41030415
The problem of a high stillbirth rate on a swine farm was investigated. A review of production records revealed an average litter size of 13 pigs born alive and 1.5 stillborn pigs, with stillbirth rates higher for litter...The problem of a high stillbirth rate on a swine farm was investigated. A review of production records revealed an average litter size of 13 pigs born alive and 1.5 stillborn pigs, with stillbirth rates higher for litters from older sows. However, the average parity of the sows studied was only 2.7, indicating a young herd. Backfat measurements indicated many sows were over-conditioned, but body condition was not associated with stillbirth rate. Sows that farrowed during working hours produced fewer stillbirths compared to sows farrowing when no personnel were in the barn to assist. Induction of parturition using an injection of prostaglandin after gestation Day 114 was commonly practiced and resulted in longer farrowing durations for induced sows compared to non-induced sows ( = 0.001) and a trend toward more stillbirths ( < 0.1). Sows that were induced to farrow were no more likely to farrow during working hours than non-induced sows. Key clinical message: It was suggested that, in order to reduce stillbirth rates in this herd, it would be advisable to extend the hours of supervision during the days on which most farrowing was expected to occur.
Schwartz DW, Waters K, Cole RC
… +5 more, Forehand AG, Prim J, Rush J, Stockler J, Neto R
Can Vet J
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40927268
A 1-year-old intact Nigerian dwarf nulliparous doe was presented to the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Large Animal Teaching Hospital in March 2024 for evaluation of recurrent perivulvar masses of 3 mo...A 1-year-old intact Nigerian dwarf nulliparous doe was presented to the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Large Animal Teaching Hospital in March 2024 for evaluation of recurrent perivulvar masses of 3 mo duration. Transcutaneous ultrasonographic examination of the labia and ventrolateral peri-vulvar area was carried out. This examination revealed a horizontally oriented, bilobed mass on the dorsal left labia majora, and a separate mass located directly below the ventral vulvar commissure. The dorsal mass was separated by a vertical septum, with the medial aspect of this mass effacing the vestibular mucosa. Both masses were surgically removed and submitted for histopathology. Histopathology revealed an ulcerated/pseudocystic lesion with chronic active inflammation, abscessation, and ulceration. Cystic Bartholin gland was the most likely differential diagnosis based on the collective findings. Aerobic culture resulted in heavy growth of . The existence of Bartholin glands in goats is debated. This case offers insight to the ambiguous nature of these glands. Two months after surgery the owners reported no adverse clinical signs or regrowth of perivulvar masses. Key clinical message: This report emphasizes regional reproductive anatomy and clinical application in the goat. can be present in uncharacteristic locations. Any abscessed structure in a goat should be treated as infectious.
Brookhart M, Dimmers G, Goldsmith D
… +10 more, Janzen E, Cowan V, Reggeti F, Uzal FA, Olchowy TWJ, Morrison B, Zachar E, Remnant J, Rogers L, Waine K
Can Vet J
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40927267
Over 1200 heavy feedlot cattle presented with severe tongue lesions during a 7-month interval. Review of the literature and discussions with colleagues revealed previous similar outbreaks had occurred in Canada and the U...Over 1200 heavy feedlot cattle presented with severe tongue lesions during a 7-month interval. Review of the literature and discussions with colleagues revealed previous similar outbreaks had occurred in Canada and the USA, with extensive investigations conducted and no cause identified. In the current outbreak, examination of the environment, feed, water, cattle behavior, and husbandry systems were conducted, as well as diagnostic testing including necropsy, histopathology, bacteriology, virology, and toxicology. All the initial testing to determine the cause of the lesions was unrewarding. As cases continued and increased during the second month, a further inspection of feedstuffs was undertaken. Hard clumps were identified in the dried distiller's grains with solubles feed additive (DDGS), and samples were submitted for additional mycotoxin analysis. Toxic concentrations of ergot alkaloids were detected, leading to a presumptive diagnosis of localised ergot toxicosis. Removal of the affected DDGS from the diet led to a decrease and eventual cessation of cases. This case report highlights the value of extensive collaborations among onsite and offsite colleagues when conducting detailed investigations on farm of a diagnostically challenging case. Key clinical message: This report describes a large outbreak of tongue lesions in feedlot cattle associated with ergot toxicosis. The report highlights the extensive investigation with collaboration among the producer, veterinarians, laboratory teams, and colleagues from further afield. Toxic concentrations of ergot alkaloids were present in hard clumps in the dried distiller's grains with solubles feed additive (DDGS), suggesting a possible etiology of localized ergot toxicosis.
Debilitated calves are often presented with an umbilical remnant infection, septic arthritis, or both. These comorbidities, frequently caused by similar bacteria, must be addressed surgically. In cases of omphalophlebiti...Debilitated calves are often presented with an umbilical remnant infection, septic arthritis, or both. These comorbidities, frequently caused by similar bacteria, must be addressed surgically. In cases of omphalophlebitis where the infection reaches the liver, the clinician generally has 1 option: marsupialization of the vein. This case report describes an alternative method whereby extensive omphalophlebitis can be successfully managed by resection and partial hepatectomy. Using this technique, we optimized cost-benefits for the client and overall outcome for our calf patient. Key clinical message: Omphalophlebitis in calves with infection that extends within the liver parenchyma can be completely excised by performing a partial liver resection, thereby eliminating the risks and challenges associated with marsupialization. The technique described is accessible to most veterinary practitioners.
Our objective was to describe a case of suspected relay barbiturate intoxication of a dog after ingestion of a rat that had been euthanized and frozen and then later burned in an attempted cremation. This case will be co...Our objective was to describe a case of suspected relay barbiturate intoxication of a dog after ingestion of a rat that had been euthanized and frozen and then later burned in an attempted cremation. This case will be compared to previous reports of relay toxicosis. This report describes a dog that was presented to an emergency and critical care hospital because of lethargy and vomiting after ingesting remains of a rat that had been euthanized 2 wk earlier. The primary-care veterinarian had used a pentobarbital solution for euthanasia. The rat's remains had been frozen until the owner attempted cremation at home. The attempted cremation and known ingestion of the carcass had occurred earlier in the day, before the dog became symptomatic. The degree of cremation was unknown. Upon presentation to the hospital, the dog was dull and ataxic and had an absent menace response. Supportive therapies and intravenous lipid emulsion (IVLE) therapy were administered. Despite initial treatments, the dog's neurologic condition continued to worsen. A 2nd dose of IVLE was subsequently administered. The described symptoms improved 2 h after the 2nd dose of IVLE. The dog was discharged 40 h after arrival to the hospital. Key clinical message: The purpose of this report was to describe a unique case of suspected relay barbiturate intoxication of a dog following ingestion of remains from a previously euthanized companion animal that had been exposed to temperature extremes.
OBJECTIVE: Aerosol medications are recommended for use in dogs and cats. Perceived pet intolerance to a face mask/spacer might prevent clinicians from recommending them, and thus prevent owners from using them. Our goal...OBJECTIVE: Aerosol medications are recommended for use in dogs and cats. Perceived pet intolerance to a face mask/spacer might prevent clinicians from recommending them, and thus prevent owners from using them. Our goal was to evaluate the duration required to train a pet to accept a face mask/spacer. ANIMALS AND PROCEDURE: Pet owners with no experience using a face mask/spacer were recruited. Pet owners applied the face mask/spacer q12h and graded each attempt on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 = "not tolerated" and 5 = "perfect compliance." "Compliance" was defined as the animal tolerating the face mask/spacer with minimal or no restraint for a duration of at least 10 breaths for 4 separate treatments over 2 d. Time to compliance and overall compliance were calculated. RESULTS: Forty-four pets were enrolled and 43 completed the study. All dogs achieved compliance with a median time of 4 d (range: 2 to 18 d). Eighteen of 20 cats achieved compliance with a median time of 6 d (range: 2 to 19 d). CONCLUSION: Habituation to face masks/spacers was easily achieved in dogs and almost all cats. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Concern over pet or owner acceptance should not be an obstacle to prescribing inhaled medications. Most animals could be habituated to a face mask/spacer within 19 d.
Pollock CM, Campbell JR, Windeyer MC
… +2 more, Rousseau M, Waldner CL
Can Vet J
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40927258
OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to estimate the seroprevalences of 6 serovars in beef calves at or near fall weaning and assess how concentrations of serovar antibody titers in weaning-age calves varied with herd vaccinat...OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to estimate the seroprevalences of 6 serovars in beef calves at or near fall weaning and assess how concentrations of serovar antibody titers in weaning-age calves varied with herd vaccination programs. ANIMALS: Serum was collected from 1922 beef calves from 106 herds in the Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network (C3SN). PROCEDURE: A microscopic agglutination test was used to measure antibody titers for serovars Bratislava, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona. Records of vaccine use were available for cows and nursing calves from 94 herds. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate the associations between serovar antibody titers in weaning-age calves and the number of doses of vaccine administered to cows. RESULTS: Overall, 90.8% of sampled calves had undetectable (< 50) antibody titers to all tested serovars, whereas 3.2% of sampled calves from 26.4% of participating herds had a positive (≥ 100) titer to 1 or more serovars. The seroprevalences at both the calf and herd levels were higher for the host-adapted serovar Hardjo in western Canada and higher for the non-host-adapted serovars in eastern Canada. The probability of calf serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae titer increasing by 1 doubling dilution was 3.6× (95% CI: 1.7, 7.7) higher in herds that administered 2 doses of vaccine to cows compared to herds that did not vaccinate against this pathogen. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on the serological evidence, few weaning-age beef calves across Canada have been exposed to pathogenic bacteria.