Prazeres J, Borges J, Teixeira D
… +3 more, Agrícola R, Carvalho L, Ribeiro G
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jul · PMID 42385772
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To provide a video tutorial on how to perform equine castrations using the closed technique and primary closure of the skin. ANIMALS: Intact male horses presented to equine veterinary hospitals for castration....OBJECTIVE: To provide a video tutorial on how to perform equine castrations using the closed technique and primary closure of the skin. ANIMALS: Intact male horses presented to equine veterinary hospitals for castration. METHODS: The closed castration technique was performed with incisions over the inguinal rings and primary closure. RESULTS: This technique is associated with minimal complications, decreased edema, less pain, lower infection rates, and faster healing. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The technique presented in this video tutorial provides a quick and safe method for removing descended as well as nondescended testicles in an inguinal location. This technique is associated with faster recovery and return to sports activities.
Lashlee T, Tollefson CR, Pigott AM
… +3 more, Thielen L, De Silva M, Di Girolamo N
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42361384
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To determine the feasibility of measuring caudal vena cava (CVC) and aorta size in non-contrast-enhanced CT scans of rabbits, variations in size and circularity depending on anatomical location, factors and co...OBJECTIVE: To determine the feasibility of measuring caudal vena cava (CVC) and aorta size in non-contrast-enhanced CT scans of rabbits, variations in size and circularity depending on anatomical location, factors and conditions affecting the CVC-to-aorta (CVC:Ao) ratios, and changes of CVC:Ao ratios in hemodynamically unstable rabbits. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included consecutive client-owned rabbits that presented to the Cornell University Hospital for Animals between June 2022 and October 2024 and received an abdominal CT. Forty-nine CT scans from 46 individual rabbits were included. The CVC:Ao ratio was determined similarly to dogs. Hemodynamically instability was assessed by 2 independent blinded investigators. RESULTS: 100% (95% CI, 92.8% to 100%) and 87.8% (95% CI, 75.2% to 95.4%) of the thoracic and abdominal CVC:Ao ratios, respectively, were measurable. Several factors were associated with abdominal and thoracic CVC:Ao ratios and their difference, including a higher difference between abdominal and thoracic ratio in rabbits with intestinal obstruction. The abdominal CVC:Ao ratio and the difference between abdominal and thoracic CVC:Ao ratio were significant predictors of hemodynamic instability, with a 6-fold and 8-fold increase in the odds of hemodynamic instability for every additional unit of these ratios and an area under the curve of 0.73 (95% CI, 0.56 to 0.91) and of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.64 to 0.93). CONCLUSIONS: In diseased rabbits, the aorta and CVC are larger and less circular in the thorax than in the abdomen. In hemodynamic unstable rabbits, the thoracic CVC:Ao ratio decreased while the abdominal CVC:Ao ratio increased, likely owing to gastric compression on the vena cava. CLINICAL RELEVANCE:CVC:Ao ratios can be used as significant predictors of hemodynamic instability in diseased rabbits.
Albers P, Ullal T, Shropshire S
… +4 more, Tolbert MK, Lee AM, Cavasin JP, Jablonski SA
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42361375
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To compare signalment, laboratory, and imaging findings in dogs with intrahepatic portal hypertension (PH) secondary to congenital hepatic disorders or chronic hepatitis (idiopathic or copper associated). METH...OBJECTIVE: To compare signalment, laboratory, and imaging findings in dogs with intrahepatic portal hypertension (PH) secondary to congenital hepatic disorders or chronic hepatitis (idiopathic or copper associated). METHODS: This was a multi-institutional retrospective study (January 1, 2013, to August 25, 2024). Dogs were included if they had clinical evidence of PH (multiple portosystemic shunts, peritoneal effusion, or both) and evidence of liver dysfunction. Dogs were classified as having congenital disease or chronic hepatitis causing PH based on blinded review of liver histopathology. Categorical variables were compared with the Fisher exact test. Continuous variables were compared via the Mann-Whitney U test; variables with P < .2 were included in a multivariable model. RESULTS: 39 dogs met inclusion criteria (16 congenital and 23 chronic hepatitis). Dogs with chronic hepatitis were older and had higher serum bilirubin, ALP, and GGT concentrations; lower serum albumin concentrations; and lower platelet counts compared to dogs with congenital disease. Dogs with congenital hepatic disease had lower MCV. Age and MCV remained significant on multivariable analysis. Hepatic parenchymal heterogeneity on abdominal ultrasound was reported more frequently in dogs with chronic hepatitis. CONCLUSIONS: Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing the cause of intrahepatic PH in dogs. However, age, specific clinicopathologic abnormalities, and hepatic ultrasonographic heterogeneity might help clinicians differentiate these conditions when histopathology is unavailable. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: When liver biopsy is unavailable, clinicians evaluating dogs with PH might use age, MCV, albumin, platelet count, cholestatic enzyme activities, and hepatic ultrasonographic echotexture to prioritize congenital versus chronic hepatitis etiologies and guide prognostic counseling.
Schindler S, Lane M, Woodard M
… +1 more, Baron-Chapman M
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42361374
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified percutaneous ultrasound-guided ethanol ablation technique for the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism in dogs. METHODS: This prospective observational stu...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified percutaneous ultrasound-guided ethanol ablation technique for the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism in dogs. METHODS: This prospective observational study was conducted at a single veterinary referral center. Dogs with persistent ionized hypercalcemia, normal/increased parathyroid hormone concentrations, normal/undetectable parathyroid hormone-related protein concentrations, and ultrasonographic identification of ≥ 1 presumed hyperfunctioning parathyroid nodule (≥ 2.5 mm) underwent percutaneous ultrasonographically guided ethanol ablation, in which ethanol was administered until real-time diffuse intralesional hyperechogenicity was achieved. Dogs with alternative causes of hypercalcemia were excluded. Data collected from October 2018 through April 2023 included signalment, lesion characteristics, ethanol volume administered, complications, and biochemical outcomes. Resolution of hypercalcemia following ablation was the primary outcome measure. RESULTS: 49 dogs were enrolled, and follow-up data were available for 47. Hypercalcemia resolved in 42 of 47 dogs (89.4%). Complications occurred in 12 of 47 dogs (25.5%) and were classified as minor in 10 and major in 2. Dogs with resolution of hypercalcemia received a greater median volume of ethanol than dogs without resolution (0.60 mL [IQR, 0.30 to 1.00 mL] vs 0.15 mL [IQR, 0.09 to 0.37 mL]; P = .012). Ethanol volume was not associated with ethanol leakage severity or complication rates. CONCLUSIONS: Sonographically guided ethanol ablation was an effective treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism in dogs, achieving resolution of hypercalcemia in nearly 90% of cases with a low rate of major complications. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ultrasound-guided ethanol ablation based on real-time nodule hyperechogenicity may be a practical alternative to volume-based protocols while maintaining efficacy and safety.
von Pfeil DJF, Adams RJ, Clark L
… +10 more, Dewey CW, Brunke MW, Garner M, Lanz OI, Miller N, Breshears L, Déjardin LM, Armitage A, Hayashi K, Vezzoni A
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42361372
·
Publisher ↗
Bedinvetmab (Librela/Beransa) is a canine anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibody (aNGFmAb) approved for the management of osteoarthritis pain. By neutralizing NGF, it reduces nociceptive signaling and improves comf...Bedinvetmab (Librela/Beransa) is a canine anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibody (aNGFmAb) approved for the management of osteoarthritis pain. By neutralizing NGF, it reduces nociceptive signaling and improves comfort. However, NGF plays critical roles in neural, bone, and cartilage homeostasis across species. Multiple studies indicate that NGF contributes to bone remodeling and cartilage repair by modulating osteoblast, osteoclast, and chondrocyte activity, processes that are highly active in osteoarthritic joints. In humans, rodents, and rabbits, inhibition of NGF is associated with rapidly progressive osteoarthritis, a serious adverse event characterized by accelerated joint destruction and collapse, which ultimately prevented regulatory approval of human aNGFmAbs-yet the canine aNGFmAb, bedinvetmab, received marketing authorization. Emerging clinical signals in canine patients raise concern that NGF blockade may similarly mask early structural deterioration, potentially accelerating osteolysis and chondrolysis in both index joints and nonindex joints. Although purportedly rare, those adverse drug events are irreversible and often catastrophic, resulting in rapid joint degeneration, progressive osseous collapse, and fractures, which can occur within months. This stands in contrast to high reported clinician satisfaction rates and underscores the need for careful postmarketing vigilance. Given NGF's integral role in joint biology, objective monitoring strategies are warranted. These strategies should include thorough baseline and follow-up examinations, standardized imaging protocols, diligent adverse event reporting, and, where appropriate, histopathological assessment. Transparent communication of potential risks, along with documented informed consent, is essential to support balanced, clinical decision-making by veterinarians and pet owners.
Tollefson CR, Merkhassine M, Duhamel GE
… +2 more, Chambers BM, Miller M
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42361369
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe ultrasonographic features of gastric mucosal abnormalities in dogs receiving chronic omeprazole therapy. METHODS: Medical records from a veterinary teaching hospital were retrospectively reviewed t...OBJECTIVE: To describe ultrasonographic features of gastric mucosal abnormalities in dogs receiving chronic omeprazole therapy. METHODS: Medical records from a veterinary teaching hospital were retrospectively reviewed to identify dogs evaluated between 2020 and 2026 with a history of chronic (≥ 5 months) omeprazole administration that had undergone abdominal ultrasonography. Dogs were included if ultrasonography demonstrated gastric wall abnormalities consistent with a defined pattern. Nine dogs met the inclusion criteria. Dogs were medium to large breed and receiving omeprazole for management of portosystemic shunting, gastric ulceration, or chronic enteropathy. Ultrasonographic findings were descriptively reviewed, and available histopathology was assessed. RESULTS: All 9 dogs demonstrated gastric wall changes characterized by predominantly mucosal involvement. Abnormalities were localized to the gastric body and fundus in all dogs and were circumferential in 7 and focal in 2. The mucosa was hyperechoic and mildly heterogeneous with undulating margins and thickened rugal folds. Small intramucosal hypoechoic to anechoic round structures were identified in 4 dogs. Gastric wall layering was preserved in 8 dogs, with no regional lymphadenopathy or perigastric abnormalities. Differential diagnoses included severe gastritis, infiltrative gastric neoplasia, mural hemorrhage, and hypertrophic gastropathies. Histopathology, available in 4 dogs, supported a PPI-associated hypertrophic mucosal phenotype characterized by mucous neck cell hyperplasia. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic omeprazole administration in dogs was associated with a consistent ultrasonographic pattern of mucosal-predominant gastric wall changes. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Recognition of this pattern may help differentiate medication-associated changes from more aggressive disease processes and guide diagnostic decision-making.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42361364
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To provide a detailed technical tutorial on large-bore thoracostomy tube placement in small animals. The procedure is demonstrated using a veterinary simulation model designed to support safe acquisition of pr...OBJECTIVE: To provide a detailed technical tutorial on large-bore thoracostomy tube placement in small animals. The procedure is demonstrated using a veterinary simulation model designed to support safe acquisition of procedural skills and hands-on training. ANIMALS: Any dog or cat requiring therapeutic drainage of the pleural space due to recurrent pleural effusion, pneumothorax, or the need for pleural lavage, such as in cases of pyothorax. METHODS: Placement of a large-bore thoracostomy tube is demonstrated, including creation of a subcutaneous tunnel through blunt dissection of the subcutaneous tissue and intercostal musculature, controlled pleural entry with the use of curved hemostatic forceps with trocar guidance, advancement of a fenestrated thoracic drain, and appropriate tube fixation and bandaging. RESULTS: This tutorial provides a clear, step-by-step guide to performing the technique, with the aim of facilitating practice of the critical procedural skills required for accurate execution while minimizing potential complications. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Thoracostomy tube placement is a vital procedure that every veterinarian working in small animal emergency and critical care should understand. Performing the technique correctly helps reduce complications such as iatrogenic pulmonary parenchymal injury and rib fractures, which may further compromise patient ventilation.
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42320522
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To report the proportion, pathogenic bacterial isolates (PBIs), and colonization rate of open, appendicular fractures in dogs and cats. To evaluate whether the time to antibiotic administration and to definiti...OBJECTIVE: To report the proportion, pathogenic bacterial isolates (PBIs), and colonization rate of open, appendicular fractures in dogs and cats. To evaluate whether the time to antibiotic administration and to definitive surgical debridement was associated with colonization rate, number of PBIs, complication rate, or complication severity. METHODS: The electronic medical records of patients transferred to a veterinary referral center's surgery department between September 2019 and August 2024 were reviewed. Data were collected for all dogs and cats transferred with fractures. All cases with open fractures were included for bacterial isolate and antibiotic susceptibility reporting and statistical analysis. RESULTS: 466 dogs and cats were transferred for fracture management. Open fractures occurred in 44 of 357 dogs (12%) and 11 of 70 cats (16%) with appendicular fractures. Thirty-two dogs and 6 cats were included for statistical analysis and had culture results reported. Twenty-one fractures grew 42 PBIs from 15 genera. The most frequently cultured isolates included 22 Enterobacterales and 9 Enterococcus sp. There was an increased frequency of gram-negative aerobes compared to human medicine. There was a 47% complication rate including 3 minor, 13 major, and 1 catastrophic complication. CONCLUSIONS: Open fractures in dogs and cats appeared to be colonized with a higher proportion of gram-negative aerobes than human patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Empiric antibiotic therapy for open fractures in dogs and cats should cover gram-positive and gram-negative aerobes. Monotherapy with penicillins or cephalosporins may not provide sufficient antibiotic coverage due to frequent resistance.
Orchard RJ, Weisent J, Pearl A
… +1 more, Moulding H
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42314738
·
Publisher ↗
The purpose of this scoping review was to compile reported outcomes in relation to service-learning in veterinary medicine and identify underrepresented areas that warrant further initiative to support a more intentional...The purpose of this scoping review was to compile reported outcomes in relation to service-learning in veterinary medicine and identify underrepresented areas that warrant further initiative to support a more intentional model of community partnership. The Bramer et al method was utilized in this scoping review across 3 bibliographic databases to obtain a comprehensive literature search, yielding 715 eligible publications for screening. The screening process was charted with the use of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. All citations were initially double-screened, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer; in the final stages, fulltext screening was conducted by 2 reviewers. Only models of veterinary service-learning publications were included in the review, excluding all those in which education of veterinary students was not the primary population. Results yielded 36 studies for review that all documented student-centered outcomes, with only 12 mentioning community partners. Six core themes were noted across the studies evaluated, including skill building, shaping of career motivations and identity, mentorship as a support structure, and development of empathy and social justice orientation. While community engagement models in veterinary medicine are mutually beneficial by design, with clear benefits to experiential learning, there has been a lack of exploration past an internal institutionalized focus with limited representation of community perspective. A clearer understanding of community outcomes in service-learning programs is critical in supporting an equitable program design that offers a more meaningful and ethical clinical practice model while, in parallel, meeting the needs of the populations they aim to serve.
Criscione MJ, Thielen L, Berg K
… +2 more, Taylor R, Di Girolamo N
J Am Vet Med Assoc
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42314735
·
Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, anesthetic management, surgical treatment, outcomes, and complications of surgical sterilization in client-owned bearded dragons. ANIMALS: Medical r...OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, anesthetic management, surgical treatment, outcomes, and complications of surgical sterilization in client-owned bearded dragons. ANIMALS: Medical records were retrospectively collected for all bearded dragons that underwent ovariectomy or ovariosalpingectomy performed by 3 veterinarians board certified in exotics-related specialties between October 2019 and October 2024 at their institutions. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: 25 female dragons underwent surgical sterilization; 1 animal had 2 ovariectomies due to an ovarian remnant for a total of 26 procedures. Median age and body weight were 3.5 years and 498 g, respectively. Common reasons for presentation included hyporexia (n = 15) and coelomic distension (8). Twenty-three procedures were considered urgent, 2 were prophylactic, and 1 was emergent. RESULTS: The most common clinical pathologic finding was elevated bile acids (n = 9). Follicles were identified in all cases undergoing ultrasound (n = 18). Anesthetic protocols varied but commonly included dexmedetomidine, ketamine, midazolam, propofol, and isoflurane. Seven animals had additional procedures, including cholecystectomy (n = 2), liver biopsy (2), mass removal/biopsy (2), partial lung resection (1), subtotal fat body removal (1), and enterotomy (1). Of 14 cases evaluated histologically, 8 had abnormal ovarian findings, most commonly oophoritis (n = 6). Intraoperative hemorrhage was the most common complication (n = 11). Of 26 surgical events, 22 (85%) resulted in survival to discharge and for at least 10 days postoperatively. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ovariectomy or ovariosalpingectomy in client-owned bearded dragons may be required for multiple indications. Despite common complications, the surgery has a better prognosis than previously reported in the literature. These findings support ovariectomy or ovariosalpingectomy as a viable surgical option in bearded dragons.