Ma D, Faulkner JE, Stander N
… +2 more, Raisis A, Joslyn S
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41861469
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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of commercial veterinary radiology AI platforms on general practice canine abdominal radiographs with confirmed diagnoses. METHODS: For this pilot study, canine abdominal...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of commercial veterinary radiology AI platforms on general practice canine abdominal radiographs with confirmed diagnoses. METHODS: For this pilot study, canine abdominal radiographs with definitive diagnoses were collected and submitted to 6 AI platforms between September and December 2024. Confirmation of diagnosis was obtained with surgery, necropsy, CT, ultrasound, cytology, or treatment response when appropriate. RESULTS: 53 cases were selected and submitted to AI platforms. After platform rejections, 307 evaluations were available for analysis. When differentiating cases with pathology (51 of 53) and without pathology (2 of 53), platform performance was variable and mostly low to moderate, including mean accuracy (70% to 90%), balanced accuracy (60% to 65%), and Matthews correlation coefficient (-0.08 to 0.43). Across all platforms, classification of radiographic findings (labels) showed low sensitivity (28% to 78%), F1 score (28% to 51%), and positive predictive value (25% to 54%) due to frequent missed diagnoses. Matthews correlation coefficient was higher (0.16 to 0.45), as it was less impacted by label misclassification. Small intestinal obstruction, a critical finding, was often not identified, with a sensitivity of 23% to 69%. CONCLUSIONS: Diagnostic performance varied between the 6 AI platforms tested and was overall low to moderate for this small sample. Even the best-performing algorithm had notable limitations, and none appeared suitable for clinical use in their current form. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Further independent external validations on a larger scale and performance gains are needed before AI platforms can be safely integrated into clinical practice.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41861462
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OBJECTIVE: To compare the utility of premade plastic versus thermoplastic splints when applied by novice practitioners. METHODS: 15 bandagers used 2 types of premade splint materials to place hock splints on cadavers. Ea...OBJECTIVE: To compare the utility of premade plastic versus thermoplastic splints when applied by novice practitioners. METHODS: 15 bandagers used 2 types of premade splint materials to place hock splints on cadavers. Each participant was instructed to place 2 hind limb splints on a canine cadaver using a premade plastic splint on one side and thermoplastic splint on the other side. The time to place each splint was self-recorded. Participants filled out a questionnaire after splint placement. A single surgeon judged the splints with a qualitative scoring system, which was used to determine whether splints were clinically acceptable. RESULTS: The mean ± SD time it took to place the splints was 9.4 ± 2.1 minutes for premade splints and 12.0 ± 2.3 minutes for thermoplastic splints. Seven participants (47%) preferred the premade splints and 8 (53%) preferred the thermoplastic splints. The premade splint was scored as superior in 10 of 15 cadavers (67%), the thermoplastic splint was scored as superior in 4 of 15 cadavers (27%), and both were equal in 1 cadaver (10%). Four of the 15 premade splints (26%) and 3 of the 15 thermoplastic splints (20%) were deemed clinically acceptable. CONCLUSIONS: Premade and thermoplastic splints were comparable to each other for novices, but there was a low number of clinically acceptable splints. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Splint types had similar utility for use in practice, but overall splint placement skill needs improvement.
Mastorakis AN, Gibson EA, Barr CA
… +14 more, Stefanovski D, Machado ML, Soares JHN, Mayhew PD, Chohan A, Ross N, Marvel SJ, McCarthy-Hann C, Sanchez A, Singh A, Sanders B, Thomson C, Blajszczak C, Buote N
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41849823
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OBJECTIVE: To report on placement and perioperative outcomes associated with one-lung ventilation (OLV) devices utilized in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. METHODS: This multi-institutional retrospective study inc...OBJECTIVE: To report on placement and perioperative outcomes associated with one-lung ventilation (OLV) devices utilized in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. METHODS: This multi-institutional retrospective study included dogs undergoing OLV for elective thoracoscopic surgery between January 2013 and December 2023. Patient data, OLV technique, surgical and anesthetic complications, and perioperative blood gases were recorded. Success of OLV was defined as sustained collapse of the intended lung. Complications were graded from 1 (mild) to 5 (death or euthanasia). RESULTS: 93 dogs (47 female, 46 male) were included. The median age was 9.5 years (range, 0.08 to 14.7 years) and median weight was 26.8 kg (range, 2.5 to 62.8 kg). Devices used for OLV included endobronchial blockers (n = 71), double-lumen tubes (15), selective intubation with an endotracheal tube (1), or unspecified (6). One-lung ventilation was successful in 90 dogs. Conversion to an open approach occurred in 23 cases and was secondary to complications of OLV in 4 cases. Grade 2 (moderate) and 3 (severe) hypercapnia were recorded in 62 of 93 dogs and 11 of 93 dogs, respectively. Grade 2 and 3 hypoxemia were recorded in 10 of 93 dogs and 6 of 93 dogs, respectively. Dogs with left bronchus blockade had significantly lower odds of grade 2 hypoxemia compared to dogs with right bronchus blockade. CONCLUSIONS: OLV was successful in most cases. Intraoperative hypercapnia and hypoxemia were commonly reported, but rarely led to conversion and typically resolved postoperatively. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: OLV is a well-tolerated technique in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic procedures with excellent short-term outcomes.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41849821
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OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively evaluate the use and adverse effects of oral azithromycin prescribed in guinea pigs and chinchilla patients. METHODS: The medical record database of a veterinary teaching hospital was search...OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively evaluate the use and adverse effects of oral azithromycin prescribed in guinea pigs and chinchilla patients. METHODS: The medical record database of a veterinary teaching hospital was searched from 2009 to 2025 for records of guinea pigs or chinchillas that were prescribed oral azithromycin. Data reviewed included age, weight, indicated use, azithromycin dose, treatment duration, follow-up, and potential adverse effects within 4 weeks of administration. RESULTS: 101 guinea pigs and 30 chinchillas were included in this study. The most common indications for treatment were otitis media in guinea pigs and dental disease in chinchillas. The median azithromycin dose was 30 mg/kg, PO, every 24 hours, in both species. Minor adverse effects occurred in 10% of guinea pigs with follow-up information available (6 of 58), with hyporexia being reported in all 6 cases. In addition, in 3 of these cases, diarrhea and weight loss were reported. One guinea pig (1 of 58) developed severe adverse effects (typhlitis) during their third course of azithromycin and was euthanized. There were no documented adverse effects of azithromycin prescribed in chinchillas within 4 weeks of administration. CONCLUSIONS: In guinea pigs prescribed oral azithromycin, 10% (6 of 58) had minor adverse effects, while 1 guinea pig (1 of 58) developed severe adverse effects and was euthanized during their third course of azithromycin. There were no documented adverse effects of oral azithromycin prescribed to chinchillas. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on this retrospective study, orally administered azithromycin appears suitable for clinical use in guinea pigs and chinchillas.
Streb L, McKenzie E, Finno C
… +4 more, Stieger-Vanegas S, Löhr C, Gruenwald R, White C
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41849818
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OBJECTIVE: To characterize an acquired carpal hyperextension syndrome reported by North American owners of Nigerian Dwarf goats and examine potential genetic associations. METHODS: Affected (cases) and unaffected (contro...OBJECTIVE: To characterize an acquired carpal hyperextension syndrome reported by North American owners of Nigerian Dwarf goats and examine potential genetic associations. METHODS: Affected (cases) and unaffected (controls) Nigerian Dwarf goats were recruited into this observational study from 2022 to 2023 through a small ruminant producer email list and social media. Animals with reported limb trauma, cases with mild carpal angulation, and controls under 2 years old were excluded. Physical examination, carpal goniometry and blood mineral analysis were performed on all animals. Husbandry and registration information were recorded by a standardized questionnaire. Imaging and histopathology were performed on a subset of cases. Pedigrees were analyzed for common ancestor(s) with Pedigraph. A genome-wide association study was performed with the Illumina GoatSNP50 array. RESULTS: 36 cases (carpal angle > 187°) and 64 controls were included. Owners recognized cases at a median age of 12 months (IQR, 12 to 24 months; range, 3 to 36 months); lameness was common in cases. Median standing carpal angle of cases when bearing weight was 193.3° (IQR, 190.2° to 198.3°) versus 180.3° in controls (IQR, 180.0° to 180.7°). Imaging and histopathology did not identify a structural cause. Blood mineral concentrations were similar between groups. Pedigree analysis indicated all cases shared a single ancestor. Genome-wide analysis identified a region of interest (chr24:59,830,666-60,251,280) associated with the hyperextension phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: Carpal hyperextension in Nigerian Dwarf goats was often associated with lameness and appears heritable. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Small ruminant producers and veterinarians should be alert to this potentially heritable condition. Carpal goniometry of standing animals represents an inexpensive and minimally invasive diagnostic procedure.
Oyamada K, Sato-Takada K, Motegi T
… +2 more, Minamoto TB, Fujiki M
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41849815
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OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical techniques for ureteroneocystostomy in cats with benign ureteral obstruction, evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of various techniques, and conduct meta-analyses using previous...OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical techniques for ureteroneocystostomy in cats with benign ureteral obstruction, evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of various techniques, and conduct meta-analyses using previously reported modalities. METHODS: Medical records of cats that underwent ureteroneocystostomy for benign ureteral obstruction between 2018 and 2024 were reviewed. Retrieved data (4 ureteroneocystostomy techniques, complications, and survivals) were analyzed. Random-effect meta-analyses with a logit transformation were conducted using previous studies on implant placement (subcutaneous ureteral bypass or ureteral stents) and traditional surgery (ureterotomy or ureteroneocystostomy). RESULTS: Overall, 220 ureters in 189 cats were treated with ureteroneocystostomy. Overall outcomes for all techniques were a perioperative mortality rate of 0.5% (95% CI, 0.0% to 1.6%), uroabdomen rate of 1.1% (95% CI, 0.3% to 4.0%), reobstruction rate of 8.5% (95% CI, 4.5% to 12.4%), and urinary tract infection rate of 13.2% (95% CI, 8.3% to 18.1%). These rates were lower than or similar to those in previous implant and traditional surgery studies. The 12-month survival rate was 89.4% (95% CI, 85.0% to 93.8%). Cats classified as International Renal Interest Society chronic kidney disease stage ≥ III at 1 month postoperatively had significantly shorter survival times than lower stages. Extravesicular, 2-layer, side-to-side ureteroneocystostomy with tension-relieving techniques reduced reobstruction risk compared with the other types of ureteroneocystostomy. CONCLUSIONS: Tailored ureteroneocystostomy and tension-relieving techniques can result in favorable long-term outcomes and low complication rates, similar to or better than those in previous implant and traditional surgery studies. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ureteroneocystostomy is a primary surgical treatment for feline benign ureteral obstruction, particularly when combined with tension-relieving techniques and temporary ureteral catheterization.
Horita K, Sakuma H, Fukuoka R
… +6 more, Sakamoto M, Ohmi A, Chambers JK, Tomiyasu H, Uchida K, Okuda M
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41849812
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OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of RBC distribution width (RDW) for gastrointestinal lymphoma (GIL) versus chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) in dogs. METHODS: Medical re...OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of RBC distribution width (RDW) for gastrointestinal lymphoma (GIL) versus chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) in dogs. METHODS: Medical records of dogs diagnosed with GIL or CIE based on histopathological examination of endoscopic gastrointestinal biopsy specimens between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2024, were retrospectively reviewed. Red blood cell parameters were measured at diagnosis via an automated hematology analyzer (ProCyte Dx; Idexx Laboratories Inc). Canine Chronic Enteropathy Clinical Activity Index (CCECAI) score was recorded. The diagnostic performance of RDW and CCECAI was assessed with logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses. The prognostic value was evaluated via Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards modeling. RESULTS: 56 dogs were diagnosed with GIL, and 60 were diagnosed with CIE. The RDW was significantly higher in the GIL group compared to the CIE group, with an area under the curve of 0.63. In logistic regression analysis, RDW (OR, 1.25) and CCECAI (OR, 1.27) were identified as independent predictors of GIL versus CIE. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for GIL showed that the median overall survival time (OST) was significantly shorter for dogs with RDW > 18.3% (134 days). In the multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis, RDW remained an independent prognostic factor for OST for GIL. CONCLUSIONS: RDW was independently associated with a diagnosis of GIL and with shorter OST in dogs with GIL. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: RDW may provide information when considering endoscopic biopsy and prognosis in dogs with suspected GIL.
Hendrickson CJ, Sanchez-Migallon Guzman D, Beaufrère H
… +7 more, Mans C, Huynh M, Charrasse M, Applegate JR, Appleby RB, Riggs GGC, Phillips KL
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41849811
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OBJECTIVE: To characterize the CT findings and epidemiological features of acquired dental disease in chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) and propose a grading scheme to classify acquired dental disease in this species. ME...OBJECTIVE: To characterize the CT findings and epidemiological features of acquired dental disease in chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) and propose a grading scheme to classify acquired dental disease in this species. METHODS: Medical records from 5 veterinary hospitals were searched to identify chinchillas that underwent skull CT from 2007 to 2023. Signalment, history, and physical examination findings were recorded. Computed tomographic images were evaluated retrospectively for criteria of dental disease, descriptive analyses were performed, and an overall grade of acquired dental disease was assigned. Descriptive analysis and associations between dental disease and grade were performed. RESULTS: Both fan-beam (n = 94 chinchillas) and cone-beam (6) CT studies were included, with contrast administered in 12 fan-beam CT cases. Common findings included apical elongation of premolar or molar teeth (n = 97) with frequent apical extension into the orbit (58), premolar or molar tooth curvature in transverse (92) and sagittal (77) planes, and sharp dental points (91). Dental resorptive lesions (n = 64), fractures (38), and alveolar expansile lesions (48) were also present. Dental abscesses were infrequently identified (n = 14). Acquired dental disease was classified as none (n = 1), mild (38), moderate (28), or severe (33) and assigned a corresponding grade (1 to 4). CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate that numerous features of dental pathology can be readily evaluated with CT and used to grade dental disease in chinchillas. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: CT evaluation of the skull allows characterization of dental disease in chinchillas that can guide treatment and prognosis. The provided CT grading can help standardize severity and monitor progression.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41831399
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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate survival outcomes, complication rates, and prognostic factors for dogs and cats with urothelial carcinoma (UC) treated with partial cystectomy. METHODS: Medical records of client-owned dogs and cat...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate survival outcomes, complication rates, and prognostic factors for dogs and cats with urothelial carcinoma (UC) treated with partial cystectomy. METHODS: Medical records of client-owned dogs and cats with UC treated with partial cystectomy between January 2010 and December 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. Data regarding signalment, tumor and surgical characteristics, adjuvant therapy, and outcomes were collected. Disease-free interval and median survival time (MST) were estimated via the Kaplan-Meier method. Prognostic factors were identified with log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazards modeling. RESULTS: 30 animals were included (20 dogs, 10 cats). Overall MST for 27 patients was 512 days and disease-free interval was 255 days. Mean survival time was 498 days for dogs and 730 days for cats. Complete surgical margins were associated with longer MST on univariate analysis. On multivariate analysis, complete surgical margins (hazard ratio, 0.27) and adjuvant chemotherapy (hazard ratio, 0.24) were independent positive prognostic factors. Postoperative complications occurred in 16 of 30 patients (53%). Local recurrence was documented in 12 patients (40%) and distant metastasis in 5 patients (17%). CONCLUSIONS: Partial cystectomy, as part of a multimodal treatment plan including adjuvant medical therapy, can be associated with prolonged survival in select dogs and cats with nontrigonal UC. The achievement of complete surgical margins is a critical predictor of outcome. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The procedure carries a substantial risk of complications and eventual disease progression, underscoring the importance of careful case selection and comprehensive client counseling regarding the palliative intent of therapy.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41812331
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OBJECTIVE: To describe veterinary clients' view of the Value Matrix (VM) as a tool to aid veterinarian-client decision-making. METHODS: A cross-sectional online questionnaire was available between April 15 and May 15, 20...OBJECTIVE: To describe veterinary clients' view of the Value Matrix (VM) as a tool to aid veterinarian-client decision-making. METHODS: A cross-sectional online questionnaire was available between April 15 and May 15, 2025. Recruitment involved snowball sampling via social media pages with pet-owner audiences. Demographic information was collected. Participants were presented with a video demonstrating a communication tool, the VM, being used in a simulated interaction between a veterinarian and client. Participants were asked to evaluate various functions of the VM in aiding veterinarian-client decision-making and to rate its utility in various clinical contexts. RESULTS: In total, 204 respondents were included in the final analyses. Most participants owned more than 1 pet, were financially stable, and did not report issues with accessing or adhering to veterinary care recommendations. Participants rated the VM highly in terms of its overall utility for supporting veterinarian-client decision-making (median score, 9 out of 10). Most participants agreed or strongly agreed that the VM would improve their understanding of available options, help them understand benefits and financial costs associated with care options, and help them make informed decisions. Participants indicated the VM would be most useful for decisions involving quality of life or chronic illness or to consult with other decision-makers after an appointment. CONCLUSIONS: The VM was viewed positively by participating veterinary clients, offering it as a potential tool to aid decision-making in veterinary practice. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The VM can be considered a communication tool to aid veterinarian-client decision-making during clinical interactions.
McNulty KE, Ruple A, Fitzpatrick A
… +3 more, Wilkins V, Dog Aging Project Consortium, Creevy KE
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41812328
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OBJECTIVE: The Dog Aging Project (DAP) launched the validated owner-facing End of Life Survey (EOLS) to better understand companion dog death. METHODS: Participating owners whose dogs died between December 26, 2019, and...OBJECTIVE: The Dog Aging Project (DAP) launched the validated owner-facing End of Life Survey (EOLS) to better understand companion dog death. METHODS: Participating owners whose dogs died between December 26, 2019, and March 24, 2021, were surveyed. Responses were reported descriptively. Student t and χ2 tests were utilized to assess differences in dog demographics among response-variable groups. RESULTS: Owners whose dogs died within the study period (n = 793) were invited to complete the EOLS. Response rate was 85.7% (n = 655 respondents; 29 invitees with unexpired response windows). After respondents lacking baseline DAP survey data (n = 9) were excluded, 646 EOLS responses were analyzed. Mean age at death was 13.0 ± 3.0 years. Most dogs (536 of 646 [83.0%]) experienced euthanasia rather than unassisted death, with most instances of euthanasia performed in a veterinary clinic (411 of 536 [76.7%]) or the owner's home (122 of 536 [22.8%]). Ninety-five of 646 dogs (14.7%) died without any veterinary involvement. The most common owner-perceived causes of death (CoDs) were cancer (192 of 646 [29.7%]), "old age" (190 of 646 [29.4%]), and organ system diseases (144 of 646 [22.3%]). Perimortem quality of life (QoL) was negatively associated with age at death. The most common reason for euthanasia was pain and/or suffering (260 of 536 [48.5%]), followed by poor QoL (133 of 536 [24.8%]). CONCLUSIONS: Owner-perceived CoD varies among dogs of different ages. Owners' perceptions about canine pain and suffering, QoL, and old age influence euthanasia decisions. Future analyses will heighten veterinary professionals' understanding of these perceptions. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Understanding end-of-life factors that are important to dog owners enables veterinarians to thoughtfully educate clients and optimally care for and support aging dogs and their families.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41806484
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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical outcome of calcium electroporation in treating canine superficial solid tumors using 1 or 2 treatment sessions and to assess the associated adverse events and effects on quality of lif...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical outcome of calcium electroporation in treating canine superficial solid tumors using 1 or 2 treatment sessions and to assess the associated adverse events and effects on quality of life. ANIMALS: 4 client-owned dogs were treated between February 2021 and May 2022. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: This prospective, randomized case series included an oral malignant melanoma, 2 digital melanomas, and a subcutaneous mast cell tumor. Tumors were treated once or twice and monitored for ≥ 180 days (median follow-up, 705 days; range, 180 to 870 days). Tumor response, tumor volume, adverse events, pain scores, and quality of life were recorded. RESULTS: 2 dogs received a single treatment, and 2 dogs received 2 treatments. At day 180, the overall response rate was 75% (1 complete response, 2 partial responses, and 1 progressive disease). Three dogs had no clinical evidence of progression at the time of writing (570 to 870 days posttreatment). Among responders, tumor volume reduction at day 180 ranged from 85% to 100%. No serious adverse events occurred. Transient muscle contractions during pulse delivery and mild swelling with erythema were noted in all dogs for 1 to 3 days. One dog developed a self-limiting grade 1 ulcer that had resolved by day 14. Pain scores remained low, and owners consistently reported good quality of life. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Calcium electroporation has the potential of being a chemotherapy- and surgery-free local ablative treatment option. Although limited by small case numbers, the findings in this study support further evaluation of calcium electroporation for the treatment of malignant tumors in dogs.