Journal Of The American Veterinary Medical Association[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Diagnosis and clinical outcome of cats with primary appendicular bone tumors: 76 cases.
Kimura S, Lubelski J, Wood CJ … +13 more , Selmic LE, Maritato KC, Morello E, Pellin MA, Oblak ML, Culp WTN, Malek S, Séguin B, Vernier T, Sumner JP, Wustefeld-Janssens BG, Schlag AN, Liptak JM
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41962564 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe outcomes in cats with primary appendicular bone tumors treated with complete or partial amputation, with or without adjuvant chemotherapy. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed cats with histo...
OBJECTIVE: To describe outcomes in cats with primary appendicular bone tumors treated with complete or partial amputation, with or without adjuvant chemotherapy. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed cats with histologically confirmed primary appendicular bone tumors treated surgically between 2008 and 2019. Data included signalment, clinical signs, tumor location, preoperative imaging, amputation level, adjunctive therapy, histologic characteristics, and oncologic outcomes. RESULTS: 76 cats were included, with osteosarcoma being the most commonly diagnosed tumor. Median survival time (MST) for cats with osteosarcoma was 469 days, with 1- and 2-year survival rates of 56.8% and 40.4%, respectively. The MST for cats with chondrosarcoma was 1,302 days, with 1- and 2-year survival rates of 91.7% and 66.7%. Overall metastatic rate was 32.9%, and 36.2% for osteosarcoma specifically; scapular tumors had the highest metastatic rate (87.5%). Preoperative pulmonary metastasis significantly shortened MST in cats with osteosarcoma (152 vs 573 days). In cats with osteosarcoma without preoperative pulmonary metastasis, adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved MST (1,466 vs 440 days). Negative prognostic indicators for cats with osteosarcoma were increased age and presence of suspected metastasis at any time. CONCLUSIONS: Appendicular osteosarcoma in cats had a good prognosis following amputation alone, despite a higher metastatic rate than previously reported; however, adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved survival time in cats with nonmetastatic osteosarcoma. Appendicular chondrosarcoma had an excellent prognosis following definitive surgery alone. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Cats with nonmetastatic osteosarcoma at diagnosis should be treated with both definitive surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy.
Increased dietary fiber intake improves fecal and clinical activity scores in dogs with chronic enteropathy.
Ford-Hrymak DB, Rudinsky AJ, Muirragui I … +4 more , Landau ED, Rowe JC, Winston JA, Parker VJ
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41962563 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To determine whether modification of dietary fiber could improve fecal score and clinical activity score in a population of dogs diagnosed with chronic enteropathy (CE). METHODS: This was a retrospective uncon...
OBJECTIVE: To determine whether modification of dietary fiber could improve fecal score and clinical activity score in a population of dogs diagnosed with chronic enteropathy (CE). METHODS: This was a retrospective uncontrolled study of dogs with CE presenting to a nutrition service where increasing dietary fiber intake was the primary nutritional goal. Purina fecal score, canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index scores, and fiber concentrations (g/100 kcal) of diets fed at initial nutrition consult (baseline) and at follow-up were compared. The Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test was used. RESULTS: 32 dogs were included. Median crude fiber and total dietary fiber increased from 0.6 g/100 kcal (range, 0.2 to 1.5 g/100 kcal) and 1.7 g/100 kcal (range, 0.4 to 2.8 g/100 kcal) at baseline to 1.8 g/100 kcal (range, 0.3 to 4.3 g/100 kcal) and 4.7 g/100 kcal (range, 2.1 to 7.1 g/100 kcal) at follow-up. Median time from baseline to follow-up was 21 weeks (range, 4 to 82 weeks). Purina fecal score decreased from baseline to follow-up with a median of 4.5 (range, 2 to 7) to 2 (range, 2 to 3), respectively (effect size, r = 0.82). Canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index scores decreased from baseline to follow-up with a median of 4.5 (range, 1 to 11) to 1 (range, 0 to 4), respectively (effect size, r = 0.86). At follow-up, 28 of 32 dogs (87.5%) had improved Purina fecal scores and 31 of 32 (97%) had improved canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index scores. CONCLUSIONS: Increased dietary fiber intake improved fecal and clinical activity scores in many dogs with CE. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In addition to other dietary food trial approaches commonly considered, veterinarians should utilize fiber to manage clinical signs of dogs with CE.
The Veterinary Wellbeing Collective advances a coordinated approach to well-being in the veterinary profession.
Reinhard A, Hanley B, O'Reilly A … +13 more , Cavallaro E, Tsontos G, Brandt J, Volk J, Hahn J, Vaisman J, Martin K, Craig L, Holowaychuk M, Hendricks M, Spitznagel MB, Cordivano S, Corrigan V
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950961 · Publisher ↗
Veterinary well-being has emerged as a growing field of study and practice, yet efforts remain fragmented across the profession. To achieve a coordinated approach to veterinary well-being, on July 29, 2025, Merck Animal...
Veterinary well-being has emerged as a growing field of study and practice, yet efforts remain fragmented across the profession. To achieve a coordinated approach to veterinary well-being, on July 29, 2025, Merck Animal Health hosted the first Veterinary Wellbeing Collective roundtable to drive actionable, in-person discussions about the past, present, and future of veterinary well-being. The audio from the meeting was recorded, transcribed, and summarized, and this article highlights priorities for coordinated action.
Performing liver biopsies in cattle.
Gibbons P, Roof C, Brooks W
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950957 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe the steps of performing a liver biopsy in cattle. ANIMALS: Beef and dairy cattle. METHODS: The video describes and demonstrates the steps of performing a standing percutaneous liver biopsy in cattl...
OBJECTIVE: To describe the steps of performing a liver biopsy in cattle. ANIMALS: Beef and dairy cattle. METHODS: The video describes and demonstrates the steps of performing a standing percutaneous liver biopsy in cattle. Sample collection and handling are covered, and the purpose for liver biopsy collection in cattle is outlined. RESULTS: Ultrasound is used to identify location in a dairy cow. The video demonstrates the use of a manual biopsy tool and covers the purpose of liver biopsy as well as sample handling. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Liver biopsy is a common diagnostic technique used for both histopathology and mineral analysis. This technique is not commonly taught in veterinary school but is an important tool for herd health management.
Dot-blot ELISA assay demonstrates strong agreement with hemagglutination inhibition for the detection of canine parvovirus antibodies in sera of healthy, vaccinated blood-donor dogs.
Talbot CT, Brewer M, Willis M … +5 more , Kofron K, Shropshire SB, Santangelo KS, Zersen KM, Lappin MR
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950951 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To compare canine parvovirus (CPV) antibody titers in sera of community blood-donor dogs using the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assays from 2 state veterinary diagnostic laboratories (VDLs) and a dot-blot...
OBJECTIVE: To compare canine parvovirus (CPV) antibody titers in sera of community blood-donor dogs using the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assays from 2 state veterinary diagnostic laboratories (VDLs) and a dot-blot ELISA assay to determine intermethod agreement. METHODS: Stored sera (-80-°C freezer) from 100 healthy community-based blood-donor dogs were selected. Dogs represented various breeds and ages. Available vaccination history was retrospectively assessed. Sera were thawed and delivered to the VDLs, with HI and the dot-blot ELISA assay performed the following day. RESULTS: Of 100 samples, 96 dot-blot ELISA results were within a 2-fold dilution of the corresponding HI titer from the Colorado State University VDL, and 92 were within a 2-fold dilution of the HI titer from the New York State VDL. The dot-blot ELISA assay demonstrated high sensitivity (96% and 97%) and strong agreement (Spearman ρ = 0.72 and 0.92). Of 43 dogs with vaccination history, 93% had protective titers. The 3 lowest titers occurred in dogs vaccinated within 1 year. CONCLUSIONS: CPV antibody titers in community blood-donor dogs showed strong agreement between HI assays and the dot-blot ELISA assay. A high concordance and strong correlation support the dot-blot ELISA assay as a reliable method for estimating CPV antibody titers. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Accurate, rapid assessment of CPV titers is important for selecting plasma from community blood-donor dogs intended for passive immunotherapy in critically ill parvoviral patients. Demonstration of strong agreement between the dot-blot ELISA and reference HI assays supports the use of this assay for in-house donor screening and timely plasma selection.
Objective gait analysis methods for assessing movement asymmetry in the equine patient.
Zullo KV, Davis JG, Bubeck K
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Jun · PMID 41950950 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the uses, data interpretation, and limitations of objective gait analysis methods in equine practice. ANIMALS: Teaching and client-owned horses. METHODS: Informed owner consent was obtained for...
OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the uses, data interpretation, and limitations of objective gait analysis methods in equine practice. ANIMALS: Teaching and client-owned horses. METHODS: Informed owner consent was obtained for all animals used in the making of this technical tutorial video. Primary literature relevant to this video was reviewed from January 2016 to January 2026. Images and data were collected from teaching horses and client-owned horses. RESULTS: Objective gait analysis provides accurate and repeatable data on the locomotion of a horse; however, inaccuracies may occur, especially in cases of mild hind limb lameness and inaccurate sensor placement. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Inertial measurement unit systems offer good repeatability across trials and function in differing environmental conditions. They provide objective assessment of changes in lameness after flexion tests and local analgesia. However, inertial measurement units require precise and time-consuming sensor placement, as well as establishment of a wireless connection. In contrast, camera-based systems have a faster setup, are less expensive, and are portable. They also allow owner-recorded videos to be uploaded for at-home analysis. Camera-based systems frequently require more trot-up and are more sensitive to suboptimal environmental conditions. The use of α-2 agonists during lameness evaluation can mask forelimb lameness but have limited effects on hind limb lameness. Tranquilizers generally do not interfere with gait analysis. In summary, objective gait analysis is a useful aid for clinicians in assessing mild or multilimb lameness and should be used in conjunction with subjective lameness evaluation.
Generalized tremors in a 2.5-year-old domestic shorthair cat.
Menchetti M, Cocchetto A, Galli G
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950949 · Publisher ↗
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A single pneumatic tourniquet is superior to wide rubber tourniquets for saphenous intravenous regional limb perfusion with amikacin in standing, sedated horses.
Lani NR, Schoonover MJ, Williams MR … +2 more , Messina A, Rudra P
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950948 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To establish whether tourniquet type and number influence synovial fluid amikacin concentrations of the tarsocrural joint (TCJ) or metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) after standing saphenous IV regional limb per...
OBJECTIVE: To establish whether tourniquet type and number influence synovial fluid amikacin concentrations of the tarsocrural joint (TCJ) or metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) after standing saphenous IV regional limb perfusion (IVRLP) with 2 g of amikacin. METHODS: 8 healthy adult horses underwent 4 saphenous IVRLP protocols with amikacin, differing in tourniquet type (pneumatic vs wide rubber) and number (1 placed mid-gaskin vs 1 placed mid-gaskin and 1 mid-metatarsus) in a randomized, crossover design. Amikacin concentrations were measured in serum and synovial fluid of the TCJ and MTPJ at 15 and 30 minutes after perfusate administration. A linear mixed-effects model was used to compare amikacin concentrations between protocols and within joints. RESULTS: Mean synovial fluid amikacin concentrations were not different between the single-tourniquet protocols but were higher with the dual pneumatic protocol compared to the dual wide rubber protocol. Mean synovial fluid amikacin concentrations were not different between single and dual pneumatic protocols. Mean TCJ synovial fluid amikacin concentrations were higher with the single wide rubber protocol compared to the dual wide rubber protocol, but those in the MTPJ were not different. Pneumatic tourniquets resulted in lower serum amikacin concentrations compared to wide rubber tourniquets. CONCLUSIONS: Single-tourniquet protocols yield synovial fluid amikacin concentrations in the TCJ and MTPJ similar to or higher than those of dual-tourniquet protocols, and wide rubber tourniquets result in more systemic leakage of amikacin compared to pneumatic tourniquets during saphenous IVRLP. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A single mid-gaskin pneumatic tourniquet should be considered over multiple tourniquets of either type when saphenous IVRLP is performed in standing, sedated horses.
Antimicrobial stewardship education increases US veterinarians' intention to avoid prescribing antimicrobial drugs for canine acute diarrhea, January 2025.
Frey E, Kedrowicz A, Granick J … +2 more , Hedgpeth MW, Townsend L
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950947 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether an educational video or written evidence-based handout can reduce veterinarians' intentions to prescribe antibiotics for canine acute diarrhea. METHODS: In January 2025, US veterinarians wh...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether an educational video or written evidence-based handout can reduce veterinarians' intentions to prescribe antibiotics for canine acute diarrhea. METHODS: In January 2025, US veterinarians who treat dogs were recruited for an online cross-sectional pre- and postintervention survey via social media, email lists, and state veterinary medical associations. Questions probed knowledge, personal attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control regarding the use of antibiotics in the treatment of canine acute diarrhea. Participants were randomized to control, handout, or video groups to evaluate the impact of educational resources on their intention to prescribe antibiotics. RESULTS: A total of 1,626 veterinarians completed the survey and were randomly assigned to the control (n = 567), handout (546), and video (513) groups. Baseline attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control did not differ amongst intervention groups. After they received the interventions, questions of attitude were repeated. More veterinarians were comfortable with waiting to give antibiotics (video, 86% to 90%; handout, 85% to 91%), were comfortable not prescribing metronidazole (video, 79% to 84%; handout, 80% to 86%), and agreed that prebiotics (video, 38% to 55%; handout, 40% to 50%) and probiotics (video, 48% to 58%; handout, 44% to 53%) could be used instead of antibiotics. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence-based educational resources related to antimicrobial use increased veterinarians' intention to avoid antibiotic use and promote nonantimicrobial alternatives. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Targeted evidence-based and actionable educational resources can increase veterinarians' intentions to follow antibiotic stewardship guidelines.
Fecal microbiota transplantation dosing regimen accelerates clinical resolution in canine parvovirus infection: a novel spectrum-of-care approach.
Winston JA, Jennings R, Randolph NK … +5 more , Welton M, Partridge E, Schreeg M, Yaxley PE, Rudinsky AJ
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41932357 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a novel spectrum-of-care fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) dosing regimen as an adjunctive therapy for canine parvovirus (CPV). METHODS: 27 client-owned dogs naturally infected with...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a novel spectrum-of-care fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) dosing regimen as an adjunctive therapy for canine parvovirus (CPV). METHODS: 27 client-owned dogs naturally infected with CPV were enrolled from March to November 2023 in a prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Patients were randomized into FMT-treated (n = 19) or placebo-treated (8) groups. Along with conventional treatments, CPV-infected dogs were administered FMT (single FMT enema, then 14 days of oral lyophilized FMT capsules) or placebo (single saline enema, then 14 days of oral placebo capsules) at admission. During hospitalization, dogs were monitored daily including fecal, clinical severity, and medication scores. Feces and serum were collected at admission, day 4, day 7, day 14, and day 21 for quantification of CPV viral shedding and immune response (bead-based multiplex of cytokines/chemokines). The primary outcome variable was length of hospitalization. RESULTS: Interim analysis revealed that placebo-treated dogs had excessive study withdrawals due to worsening clinical status when compared to FMT-treated dogs (37.5% compared to 0%, respectively), leading to ethical discontinuation of the placebo arm. Fecal microbiota transplant-treated dogs had significantly reduced hospitalization length and medications required for treatment (maximum medication score) compared to placebo-treated dogs. Fecal microbiota transplant did not reduce fecal viral shedding or elicit a host immune response. CONCLUSIONS: This novel FMT dosing regimen (single enema FMT followed by oral capsular FMT), designed to be feasible for inpatients or outpatients, accelerated clinical recovery from CPV. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In-house and commercially available FMT products were effective in CPV-infected dogs, thus broadening the spectrum of care available to these patients.
Folded-flap palatoplasty performed with a needle-tip monopolar cautery: retrospective cohort of 66 brachycephalic dogs.
Miloro R, Mala B, Ceplecha V … +2 more , Vullo C, Vlasin M
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41932356 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate short- and long-term patient outcomes retrospectively, investigate anesthetic and surgical times, and assess clinically relevant surgical wound complications associated with the use of needle-tip m...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate short- and long-term patient outcomes retrospectively, investigate anesthetic and surgical times, and assess clinically relevant surgical wound complications associated with the use of needle-tip monopolar electrocautery for folded-flap palatoplasty. METHODS: This retrospective observational study included a cohort of client-owned dogs presented to a single referral hospital (2019 to 2024). All dogs underwent a standardized multilevel surgical approach, including folded-flap palatoplasty, Trader (suture-less) rhinoplasty, ala-vestibuloplasty, and tonsillectomy, as indicated. When available, surgical and anesthetic times and 14-day examinations were recorded. Short-term follow-up was performed at 6 weeks postoperatively with objective functional grading, and long-term follow-up was conducted via a telephone owner questionnaire. RESULTS: 66 dogs met the inclusion criteria. At the 6-week follow-up, significant improvement in brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome functional grades was observed. The mean (± SD) anesthetic time was 84 ± 17.59 minutes. The intraoperative complication rate was 9%. The overall postoperative complication rate was 25.7%, with 19.7% minor complications, no surgical wound complications, and a 6% mortality rate. At a median follow-up of 19 months, 94.3% of owners reported high satisfaction and 86.4% to 92.8% of dogs showed excellent improvement in respiratory and gastrointestinal health. CONCLUSIONS: An acceptable overall complication rate was observed in all patients. No clinically relevant surgical wound breakdowns were observed in any patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Needle-tip monopolar electrocautery did not increase the postoperative complication rate or worsen outcomes.
Comparison of the incidence of postoperative ocular hypertension after pars plana vitrectomy and phacoemulsification and aspiration in dogs.
Yoshida G, Umeda Y
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41932354 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively evaluate whether postoperative ocular hypertension (POH) occurs after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, as POH does after phacoemulsification and aspiration...
OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively evaluate whether postoperative ocular hypertension (POH) occurs after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, as POH does after phacoemulsification and aspiration (PEA). METHODS: Medical records of dogs that underwent PPV or PEA between January 2018 and December 2021 were reviewed retrospectively. Cases were divided into 2 groups: the PPV group and the PEA group. The PPV group was further divided into 2 groups: the PPV-only group and the PEA + PPV group, which included cases that underwent PEA and PPV simultaneously. Intraocular pressure was measured preoperatively and at 1, 3, 5, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively with rebound tonometry in all dogs, and POH incidence was analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 377 eyes (300 dogs), 43 eyes (40 dogs) were included in the PPV-only group, 48 eyes (45 dogs) in the PEA + PPV group, and 286 eyes (215 dogs) in the PEA group. The incidence of POH was 9.9% (9 of 91 eyes) in the PPV group and 25.5% (73 of 286 eyes) in the PEA group. Within the PPV group, the incidence of POH was 2.3% (1 of 43 eyes) in the PPV-only group and 16.7% (8 of 48 eyes) in the PEA + PPV group. The incidence of POH was significantly lower in the PPV group than in the PEA group. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative ocular hypertension occurred after PPV for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in dogs, with a lower incidence than after PEA. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Given the possibility of developing POH after PPV, similar to PEA, postoperative monitoring of intraocular pressure is crucial.
Successful long-term patent ductus arteriosus closure in dogs can be achieved with the use of nonabsorbable or absorbable monofilament synthetic sutures.
Schlake A, Mampaey G, Proteasa A … +3 more , Smets P, de Rooster H, Van Goethem B
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41927004 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of synthetic monofilament suture material for closure of left-to-right shunting patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in dogs, and to compare long-term results between nonabsorbable and slowly abs...
OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of synthetic monofilament suture material for closure of left-to-right shunting patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in dogs, and to compare long-term results between nonabsorbable and slowly absorbable synthetic monofilament suture material with a minimum follow-up of at least 5 months. METHODS: In a retrospective cohort study, patient files were analyzed for dogs that had surgical ligation of left-to-right shunting PDA between February 2012 and March 2022 at the Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Ghent University. Based on the suture material used, dogs were assigned to the nonabsorbable polypropylene (NON) or slowly absorbable polydioxanone (ABS) group. Recorded data included patient demographics, echocardiographic evaluation, intraoperative parameters, postoperative echocardiographic screening, and long-term clinical examination. RESULTS: 43 dogs were included (23 dogs in the NON group vs 20 dogs in the ABS group). No difference was found between groups regarding age, weight, duct size, surgical time, occurrence of intraoperative hemorrhage, or residual ductal flow. Complete ligation was achieved in 41 of 43 dogs. Postoperative residual ductal flow was detected on echocardiography in 1 dog in each group and progressed from minor at day 1 to trivial or absent at last follow-up. No long-term recanalization occurred in any of the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Synthetic monofilament suture materials were successfully used to ligate left-to-right shunting PDA with the incidence of residual ductal flow similar to that reported for silk. No recanalization occurred with the use of resorbable suture material. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: PDA closure can be safely performed with the use of either polypropylene or polydioxanone suture material.
"Push" and "pull" life and career factors affected the choice to enter, stay, or exit the workplace locations of 40 mid- to late-career veterinarians.
Raghavan M, Osman S, Surma P
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41926985 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Hiring and retaining veterinarians remains more of an uphill battle in some US regions than in others. This geographic maldistribution of veterinary workforce was studied by exploring "push" and "pull" life an...
OBJECTIVE: Hiring and retaining veterinarians remains more of an uphill battle in some US regions than in others. This geographic maldistribution of veterinary workforce was studied by exploring "push" and "pull" life and career factors influencing the migration of veterinarians in the US. METHODS: With a qualitative research approach, 40 semistructured interviews of veterinarians were conducted in 2022 and 2023 to identify factors that influenced choice of first work location, reasons for exiting workplaces, and decisions to stay long-term in chosen locations. Transcribed interviews were analyzed by adopting an interpretive paradigm and using thematic and content analytic approaches. RESULTS: Choice of work locations for 40 participants, who were primarily mid- to late-career veterinarians, was influenced by 5 themes: family, community and sense of belonging, opportunities for (career) growth, supportiveness of workplace, and location amenities. The relative importance of themes varied as veterinarians progressed through different career stages, with location amenities possibly having the least sway on choice of first workplace. CONCLUSIONS: Family, sense of belonging, and amenities influenced choice of workplace location, especially for long-term stay. Unaddressed dissatisfaction at work, lack of support, and stagnant opportunities for career growth hastened the exit of veterinarians from any geographic region. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Even when family, community, and amenities appear as "fixed" factors in a geographical area, providing opportunities for career and professional development and building multilateral support within work communities can help with retention and, ultimately, recruitment of newer workforce in a region.
Surgical timing in dogs with spontaneous hemoperitoneum is not related to blood product use, incidence of adverse events, or survival to discharge.
Herron VA, Williams RW, Berger AC … +2 more , Johnson M, Solari FP
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Apr · PMID 41926984 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To investigate differences in outcomes between dogs with spontaneous hemoperitoneum (SH) based on surgical timing and identify patient factors that may contribute to surgical timing decisions. METHODS: Retrosp...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate differences in outcomes between dogs with spontaneous hemoperitoneum (SH) based on surgical timing and identify patient factors that may contribute to surgical timing decisions. METHODS: Retrospective study of dogs undergoing surgery for spontaneous hemoperitoneum at a single institution from 2009 to 2024, excluding intraoperative euthanasias. Clinical and laboratory findings, timing of surgery and hospitalization, adverse events, and survival were recorded. Cases were grouped based on time from presentation to surgery, with emergent surgery (ES) defined as < 12 hours, subemergent surgery (SES) as 12 to 24 hours, and delayed surgery (DS) as > 24 hours. RESULTS: 99 cases were included, with 51 cases in the ES group and 24 in each of the SES and DS groups. Lower peripheral total solids was a predictor of ES (OR, 0.401; 95% CI, 0.219 to 0.733) or SES (OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.166 to 0.657) compared to DS. Dogs in the ES group were more likely to undergo splenectomy than those in the DS group (OR, 5.52; 95% CI, 1.60 to 19.1). No significant differences in blood product use or incidence of adverse events were found between groups. Survival to discharge was 93.9%, with no difference between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical timing is not a predictor of adverse events or survival to discharge in dogs undergoing surgery for SH. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Decisions regarding surgical timing in SH should be made on a case-by-case basis based on patient stability. Survival to discharge in this population was excellent regardless of surgical timing, and most adverse events encountered were minor.
Diagnosis of canine elbow dysplasia and treatment with extracorporeal shockwave therapy.
Lenfest MI, Jennings C, Randolph AJ … +2 more , Porter I, Levine D
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Jun · PMID 41926981 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To provide a video tutorial on assessment and diagnosis of canine elbow dysplasia and treatment with extracorporeal shockwave therapy. ANIMALS: Dogs undergoing shockwave therapy for therapeutic purpose. METHOD...
OBJECTIVE: To provide a video tutorial on assessment and diagnosis of canine elbow dysplasia and treatment with extracorporeal shockwave therapy. ANIMALS: Dogs undergoing shockwave therapy for therapeutic purpose. METHODS: Assess the patient through gait analysis and examination. Elbow discomfort is investigated with diagnostic imaging (CT scan or orthogonal radiographs) to confirm a diagnosis of elbow dysplasia and secondary osteoarthritis. Prepare the elbow for treatment by shaving the hair over the target anatomy, cleaning the skin with 70% isopropyl alcohol, and applying coupling gel. Select appropriate shockwave settings and standoff for the patient. Position the trode perpendicular to the medial elbow joint and deliver the treatment while slowly moving the trode over the medial humeral epicondyle, medial coronoid process, and medial joint capsule attachments. Repeat the process on the lateral aspect of the elbow. The treatment can be repeated in the contralateral elbow if indicated. Record treatment including the number of shocks delivered and energy flux density in mJ/mm2. Shockwave therapy can be prescribed as a series of 3 treatments followed by reassessment. Assessment after a treatment series is necessary to quantify response to the therapy and determine whether treatment should be continued. RESULTS: Shockwave therapy is a noninvasive therapy that causes the release of growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines that improve analgesia and encourage better healing. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Shockwave is a simple noninvasive therapeutic option for management of secondary elbow osteoarthritis. With appropriate diagnosis of the underlying condition, shockwave can be easily applied to the target anatomy for maximal analgesic effect and functional improvement.
SARS-CoV-2 infections among animals in US zoological institutions resulted primarily from human-to-animal transmission without evidence of sustained evolution in animals (2020-2023).
Cristiano DJ, Varela KE, Anderson CE … +24 more , Croft L, Crook E, Hanley C, Junge R, Montgomery D, Newland K, Rivera S, Rosenberg JF, Worden D, Yoshicedo J, Young S, Baker M, Beddo M, Carruthers M, Feldpausch A, Oltjen H, Tewari D, Rekant SI, Cleary S, Kalinich CC, Liew A, Behravesh CB, Ghai RR, SARS-CoV-2 Zoos and Aquariums Working Group
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Mar · PMID 41880766 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: We conducted a retrospective observational study to investigate exposure history, clinical signs, and onward transmission of animals infected with SARS-CoV-2 in US zoological institutions. METHODS: We analyzed...
OBJECTIVE: We conducted a retrospective observational study to investigate exposure history, clinical signs, and onward transmission of animals infected with SARS-CoV-2 in US zoological institutions. METHODS: We analyzed animal surveillance data collected through voluntary national surveillance during 2020 to 2023, including a descriptive epidemiologic analysis of surveillance data, comparative genomic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 sequences from zoo animals and the US human population, and comparison of impacts at the human-animal interface for a subset of zoological institutions (n = 12) with a SARS-CoV-2 animal outbreak. RESULTS: During 2020 to 2023, 170 animals in zoological institutions were confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2. These animals consisted of 13 species in 28 US jurisdictions. Of affected animals, 72.4% presented with clinical signs, most commonly cough (60.0%). The likely source of SARS-CoV-2 in animals was a known infected caretaker in 44.7% of cases. Some zoological institutions participated in an in-depth analysis of outbreaks; these institutions implemented an average of 48.7 and 52.9 of 88 recommended biosecurity practices in the month before and after an outbreak, respectively, in their facility. CONCLUSIONS: Zoological institutions were a high-risk setting for SARS-CoV-2 transmission via spill-back from people to animals. Genomic analysis supported that zoo animals became infected with SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating in humans at the time, with no evidence of significant viral evolution in zoo populations. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Mitigating emerging infectious disease threats in these facilities is critical for protecting vulnerable animal populations and public health.
Assessing quality and passive range of motion in equine distal limb joints.
Ursini T, Villagomez A, Dooley M … +2 more , George LS, Levine D
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Jun · PMID 41880753 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe and demonstrate subjective and objective techniques for assessing the quality and passive range of motion (ROM) of the distal forelimb and hind limb joints of the horse. Special attention will be g...
OBJECTIVE: To describe and demonstrate subjective and objective techniques for assessing the quality and passive range of motion (ROM) of the distal forelimb and hind limb joints of the horse. Special attention will be given to the tarsus, carpus, and fetlock joints, as these sites are most prone to injury and/or pathology and thus most clinically relevant. ANIMALS: Adult horses undergoing distal limb joint ROM assessment for clinical diagnostic or treatment monitoring purposes. METHODS: First, subjective techniques for assessing distal limb joint motion and end-feel as well as general guidelines for normal joint ROM are described and demonstrated in the sagittal plane (flexion/extension). Then, a step-by-step guide to objective joint ROM assessment using goniometry is presented for the metacarpophalangeal, metatarsophalangeal, radiocarpal, and tibiotarsal joints. Finally, clinical considerations, indications, and contraindications for distal limb joint ROM assessment are discussed, alongside common pathologies associated with increased or decreased joint ROM. RESULTS: Instructions for obtaining goniometric measures of joint flexion/extension angle in selected distal forelimb and hind limb joints are provided and, when executed correctly, correlate to radiographic measurements, offering a straightforward, objective technique for establishing a baseline and monitoring treatment progress. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A systematic assessment of distal limb joint ROM, combining subjective and objective techniques, is an integral part of the clinical orthopedic examination of equine patients. When executed correctly, quantifying distal limb joint ROM with the use of goniometry, which has been shown to correlate with joint angles measured radiographically, can aid the clinical decision-making process and enables objective monitoring and response to treatment.
Expanding access to cancer care: 10% fluorescein sodium is a practical, low-cost method for intraoperative sentinel lymph node mapping in dogs.
Perez-Rodriguez V, Maxwell EA, Aisa J … +1 more , Bertran J
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Mar · PMID 41880750 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of 10% fluorescein sodium for intraoperative sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in dogs with cutaneous or subcutaneous tumors. METHODS: 6 client-owned dogs received ID per...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of 10% fluorescein sodium for intraoperative sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in dogs with cutaneous or subcutaneous tumors. METHODS: 6 client-owned dogs received ID peritumoral injections of 10% fluorescein sodium diluted 1:120 with sterile saline. Lymphatic pathways and SLNs were visualized by means of blue (450- to 495-nm) and black (345- to 400-nm) light sources. Time to fluorescence, qualitative uptake, and adverse events were recorded. Excised SLNs underwent histopathologic evaluation. RESULTS: Lymphatic tracts were visualized in 5 of 6 dogs (83%; 95% CI, 36% to 100%), and SLNs were identified in all dogs (100%; 95% CI, 54% to 100%). Fluorescent uptake was complete in 4 SLNs (67%; 95% CI, 22% to 96%) and partial in 2 (33%; 95% CI, 4% to 78%). Mean time to lymphatic tract fluorescence was 6.7 ± 6.7 minutes, and mean time to SLN fluorescence was 8.0 ± 6.0 minutes. No adverse events occurred. Histopathology identified metastatic mast cell disease in 4 SLNs (67%; 95% CI, 22% to 96%), classified as HN2 in 2 (33%; 95% CI, 4% to 78%) and HN3 in 2 (33%; 95% CI, 4% to 78%), while reactive changes were observed in 2 SLNs (33%; 95% CI, 4% to 78%). Of 2 second-tier nodes, 1 showed HN2 metastasis and 1 reactive changes. CONCLUSIONS: Based on this preliminary study, 10% fluorescein sodium is a safe, feasible, and accessible method for intraoperative SLN mapping in dogs, providing real-time visualization of lymphatic pathways and lymph nodes. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This low-cost, accessible technique may facilitate adoption of SLN mapping in general veterinary practice. Further studies are warranted.
Ultrasound-guided intralesional tendon and ligament injections in the horse.
Pigé C, Vaughan B, Reesink HL
J Am Vet Med Assoc · 2026 Jun · PMID 41861471 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe principles of ultrasound-guided injection techniques for intralesional delivery of regenerative orthobiologics into equine tendon and ligament core lesions. ANIMALS: A university-owned horse and eq...
OBJECTIVE: To describe principles of ultrasound-guided injection techniques for intralesional delivery of regenerative orthobiologics into equine tendon and ligament core lesions. ANIMALS: A university-owned horse and equine cadaver forelimbs. METHODS: A reproducible protocol for ultrasound-guided injection is demonstrated with the superficial digital flexor tendon used as an example. Following diagnosis of the lesion, the horse should be sedated and the affected limb desensitized with perineural anesthesia. The lesion is identified ultrasonographically in transverse and longitudinal planes, marked externally, and aseptically prepared. Under sterile conditions, the needle is placed through the skin, viewed on ultrasound, advanced to the lesion's hypoechoic core or region of fiber disruption, and stabilized during attachment of the syringe and subsequent injection. Injectate volume is governed by product type and lesion size, with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), bone marrow aspirate concentration (BMAC), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and autologous conditioned serum or protein solution (ACS/APS) representing the most commonly used equine orthobiologics. Ultrasound monitoring throughout the injection confirms intralesional placement and dispersion of the injectate. RESULTS: Ultrasound guidance enables precise intralesional placement and real-time observation of injectate dispersion. Current clinical opinion suggests injecting tendon/ligament injuries during the sub-acute phase or within a few weeks of injury. The technique minimizes iatrogenic trauma and improves delivery accuracy for regenerative treatments. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ultrasound-guided intralesional injection is an accessible and effective method to enhance the precision, safety, and therapeutic success of orthobiologic delivery in equine tendon and ligament injuries.
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