Vetstoria: Vets at home

Anal Glands (3) : Surgical Removal

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2008-06-17 14:04:27

In this video we are describing the surgical removal of both anal glands in a dog. This procedure might prove

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Anal Glands (2): How to express them?

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2008-05-16 23:44:13

In this video we are showing you how to express the anal glands of your dog or your cat. This is often all that is required to relieve the pet who has blocked glands and a build up of secretions.

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Anal Glands (1): What On Earth Are They?

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2008-04-23 22:29:52

Anal glands (also called anal �sacs�) are 2 small pouches or sacs located around the anus of most carnivores.

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Myxomatosis (2): Vaccination

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2008-03-07 00:02:07

Myxomatosis is a very common disease amongst wild and domesticated rabbits. In the UK, a vaccination is available against this dreadful disease and this is the topic for the video.

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Myxomatosis (1): Symptoms

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2008-01-30 00:29:16

Myxomatosis affects both wild and domesticated rabbits. It is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. Epidemic infections are common in the UK, especially at the end of the summer.

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CDRM: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-12-30 11:42:15

Chronic Degenerative Radiculo Myelopathy (CDRM) has been described as the most common cause of progressive hind limb dysfunction in older German Shepherd Dogs. This video provides information about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of that dreadful condition.

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Cruciate Ligament Rupture In Dogs (2): Surgical Repair

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-12-10 11:27:24

Following our first video on the symptoms and diagnosis of a cruciate ligament injury in dogs, let's now talk about its treatment. The best way to treat this condition is to operate on the patient. Several techniques are successfully used in the UK. In this podcast, we decided to describe the most common operation, which is called the Over-The-Top technique.

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Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs (1): Symptoms and Diagnosis

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-11-22 11:59:15

The knee is prone to a number of injuries. One of the most common knee injury in dogs is a ruptured cruciate ligament. Large breed dogs such as Rottweilers or the very excitable ones such as Border Collies do suffer commonly from that disease and it is the topic for today's discussion.

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Ringworm in Horses

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-10-30 23:06:11

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus affecting companions animals such as cats, dogs and horses as well as humans. This disease is widespread and spreads easily through an entire stable.

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Heat Stroke in Pets

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-10-23 10:28:22

Heat stroke is a condition occurring when the body temperature of a dog or a cat is far above the normal limits. It is an emergency and one from which many pets do not recover.

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Tetanus In Dogs

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-10-04 23:32:38

Carnivores, like dogs and cats are relatively resistant to tetanus compared to other species like horses, guinea pigs and humans. However they can occasionally be affected and it can then be a dramatic disease if not identified quickly by your veterinarian.

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Fly Strike In Rabbits (2): Prevention

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-09-24 21:00:44

We already dedicated a video to describing the symptoms and treatment of fly strike in rabbits. Today's video is going to outline the 2 main aspects of the prevention of that condition, identification of predisposing factor and use of available effective products

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Strangles in Horses: Symptoms and Treatment

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-09-15 01:16:25

Strangles is one of the most commonly encountered respiratory diseases affecting equidae. We are going to go through the examination and treatment of a patient affected with this condition.

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Botulism In Horses

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-08-28 01:06:07

Of all domesticated animals, horses are the most sensitive to botulism. While being rare, this condition triggers potentially fatal flaccid paralysis. This video will help you understand the causes of botulism and recognise its early signs.

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Fly Strike In Rabbits (1): Symptoms and Treatment

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-08-15 13:25:57

Anyone who has seen a rabbit affected with fly strike has no wish to see another. Yet in summertime many vets see at least one or two every week. For that reason, we are dedicating 2 podcasts to that dreadful disease. In this first one, we are going to explain what fly strike and what can be done about it.

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Conjunctivitis in Young Rabbits

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-08-02 18:53:24

Conjunctivitis is a common eye disease in rabbits. While at the best of times it is a concerning disease, this podcast shows that in young individuals it can quickly become a dreadful condition if left untreated.

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Arthritis: A Painful Joint Disease

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-07-24 10:53:09

Arthritis is a general term standing for is a group of conditions where there is damage caused to a joint. It is also called degenerative joint disease. It is a very common problem that may affect all our pets, especially as they get older.

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Surgical Repair of a Fractured Foot in a Dog

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-07-16 18:24:43

A fractured foot is a common injury of dogs and cats. This video will take you through all the stages of the surgical repair of a fractured foot in a dog from the decision making to the end of the surgery.

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Surgical Repair of a Fractured Leg in a Dog

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-07-04 17:34:30

When a dog or a cat fractures a leg, it is necessary to operate. The aim of such a procedure is to reduce and stabilise the fracture. This quickly reduces the pain endured by the patient and allows healing without sequel. This video will take you through all the stages of the surgical repair of a fractured front leg in a dog.

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Is it a Gastric Torsion?

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-06-27 09:28:42

Bloat or gastric torsion is a common condition affecting large breed dogs. The symptoms are usually very characteristic and diagnosis is usually easy. However, other conditions may mimic a gastric torsion and this podcast illustrates that fact.

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Poultry: Fowl Cholera

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-06-25 14:31:30

Fowl cholera is a contagious bacterial disease of world wide distribution. The disease affects many types of domesticated and wild birds. Fowl cholera may be acute with sudden or rapid death or may be chronic. Losses usually occur in birds over 16 weeks of age.

Scientific name

Pasteurella multocida

Symptoms

1.Acute
Often sudden death is the only sign.
However it is sometime possible to observe:
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Ruffled feathers
- Mucous discharge from the mouth
- Green watery diarrhoea
- Respiratory difficulty
- Cyanosis (bluish colouration)
- Swelling of the comb and wattles
2.Chronic
Birds that survive become chronically infected or recover while others die through emaciation and dehydration. Birds that recover may remain carriers.
Signs include:
- Swollen joints
- Swollen foot pad
- Swollen eyes
- Swollen throat

Post mortem Lesions

1. Acute
Congestion in the internal organs, muscle and skin
2. Chronic
- Congestion in the internal organs, muscle and skin
- Haemorrhages in the lungs, heart, fat and intestines
- Swollen, dark red liver (may have pinhead white spots on the surface)
- Cheesy material in the abdominal cavity
- Swollen wattles and faces
- Ruptured yolks may be found in the abdomen

Expected course

2-3 days: Incubation period
Early stages: Mortality of 5 to 15%
One month: Mortality of 2 to 5%
Later (chronic): death or recover (become carriers) or remain infected for long periods

Transmission

Increased under stress conditions:
Overcrowding
Cold weather
Unhygienic sheds
Poor ventilation
Transmitted via contaminated:
Birds/ Rats
People/ Equipment
Drinking water
Droppings/ Nasal discharges
Carcasses of infected birds

Diagnosis

Isolation of the organism (P. multocida) in the laboratory

Similar diseases

Chronic respiratory disease
Heat stroke
Avian Influenza (Fowl Plague)
Newcastle disease
Fowl typhoid (Salmonella gallinarum ).

Treatment

1. Antibiotics
2. Isolation of sick birds from the flock
3. Prompt disposal of dead birds

Prevention

Buy healthy poultry from a reputable disease free source
Strict control on entry of crates, feed bags, poultry equipment and personnel
Rodent control
Exclusion of free-flying birds
Vaccination may be administered at 6 weeks old
=> It is possible to get a specific vaccine made from an isolate obtained from an outbreak on a farm.

Conjunctivitis in Dogs and Cats

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-06-20 16:06:38

Conjunctivitis is a condition that is commonly encountered in our pets, and can occur in animals of any age. This podcast aims to describe the symptoms and causes of this painful eye condition as well as the available treatment options.

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Poultry: Marek�s Disease

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-06-18 11:00:17

Marek's disease (MD) is caused by a herpes virus that may result in death or severe production loss in both layer and meat chickens.
Vaccination will reduce the losses. However, in recent years there has been an increase in MD, due to new strains of virus and faster growing, more susceptible birds. MD is a problem in many household flocks, especially in those which have not been vaccinated.

Symptoms

It causes changes in many of the nerves and may cause tumours in the major internal organs (ovary, liver, kidney, heart and spleen). MD occurs in two main forms, depending on which parts of the body are affected by the tumours:

1. Nervous form
In this form the nerves, particularly the sciatic nerves (the main nerves to the legs), are affected. The symptoms are varied and include:
Inability to stand
Paralysis
Muscle waste (lack of food and water)
Torticoli
Blindness

When the birds are autopsied the affected nerves can sometimes be seen to be swollen. However, in many cases changes can only be seen under the microscope.
2. Visceral form
In this form, greyish-white tumours are found in the ovaries, liver, spleen, kidney, heart and other organs. Sometimes the liver and spleen are swollen without distinct tumours being present. Birds may show:
Depression
Paralysis
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Anaemia (pale combs)
Dehydration (shrunken combs)
Diarrhoea
Some birds die without any clinical signs being noticed.

Age of Birds

Young birds are the most susceptible to infection.
Most deaths from MD occur between 10 and 24 weeks of age, although in some cases the disease may not appear until later in life. Most birds that develop MD will die.

Similar Disease

Lymphoid leucosis also causes tumours in organs but:
Does not cause paralysis
Seen in birds over 16 weeks of age (usually younger for MD)

Methods of spread

The virus is highly infectious and, once it is present in a flock, it spreads rapidly to unvaccinated poultry:
Remains alive in the environment for as long as eight months
Shed from the feather follicles
Spreads in fluff and dust
Gaining entry when the bird breathes infected dust particles
Not spread from the hen to the chicks through the egg.
Healthy birds can be carriers and infect others.

Treatment

Treatment is not effective.

Diseased birds should be removed from the flock and humanely destroyed. Other birds in the flock are likely to be infected at this stage � it is too late to protect them.

Prevention

1. Vaccination

The introduction of more potent vaccines facilitates better control. These are made either from MD virus or from Herpes Virus of Turkeys (HVT), a closely related virus.
However, these new, cell-associated vaccines are only available in packs of 1000 doses and must be stored in liquid nitrogen, so special equipment is needed. This makes it costly to vaccinate small flocks. A freeze-dried, cell-free, HVT vaccine is available which is stored under ordinary refrigeration and so is less costly. This is also available in packs of 1000.
For backyard operations, protection is obtained by buying, from a commercial source, birds which have been correctly vaccinated either at 1 day old or into 18-19 day old embryonated eggs (before hatching).
Breeders who wish to vaccinate their own 1 day old chicks should follow the manufacturer's directions for the storage and administration of the vaccine. The effectiveness of the vaccine is dependent upon its correct storage and administration.

2. Management

Vaccination alone will not prevent MD. It is important to be attentive to the following management and hygiene procedures:
Isolate vaccinated chicks during their first two weeks of life. Thus their immunity will develop before they are subjected to a severe challenge of virus.
Rear chicks away from the infected fluff and dust of older birds. This material can be carried by wind and by people and equipment.
Thorough clean-out and disinfection of sheds and equipment between batches of chicks. A disinfectant should be used which is effective against viruses, and not just against bacteria. Care should be taken to protect oneself from spray by the wearing of suitable protective clothing and breathing apparatus.
Exposure of the sheds and runs to sunlight helps the disinfection process.
Good nutrition and freedom from other diseases and parasites are necessary to maintain the flock's health and to ensure that the birds have optimum resistance against MD infection.

Breeding

Breeding programmes to select birds for resistance to MD are important to give better control in the future.
In summary, MD control requires attention to correct vaccination, isolation of young chicks, hygiene, good health and genetically resistant strains of birds.
For flocks with a serious MD problem, the only solution is to depopulate, clean and disinfect all sheds and equipment and spell for several months. Then replace with vaccinated chicks from a reputable hatchery.

Poultry: Newcastle Disease

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-06-15 11:06:06

Newcastle disease is a highly contagious disease of birds caused by pathogenic strains of the virus Paramyxovirus.
Birds affected by this disease include fowls, turkeys, geese, ducks, pheasants, guinea fowl and other wild and captive birds, including ratites such as ostriches, emus and rhea. The clinical signs in affected birds can be very variable. The disease can be present in a very acute form with sudden onset and high mortality or as a mild disease with respiratory distress or a drop in egg production.

Scientific name

Paramyxovirus

Species susceptible

Many species of birds, both domestic and wild
Chickens are the most susceptible poultry
Ducks and geese are the least susceptible poultry
A carrier state may exist in psittacine and some other wild birds

Transmission

Highly contagious
Direct contact with secretions, especially faeces, from infected birds
Contaminated feed, water, implements, premises, human clothing�
Contaminated carcasses

Symptoms

Incubation period:
4-6 days
Respiratory signs:
- Gasping
- Coughing
Nervous signs:
- Dragging legs
- Twisting of the head and neck
- Circling
- Complete paralysis
General signs:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Drooping wings
- Partial or complete cessation of egg production
- Eggs are misshapen, rough-shelled, thin-shelled and contain watery albumen
- Greenish watery diarrhoea
- Swelling of the tissues around the eyes and in the neck
- Death
Morbidity and mortality depend on virulence of the virus strain, vaccination status, environmental conditions, and condition of the flock
Please click here to view some pictures of the clinical signs

Post mortem

Minute blood spots in the lining of:
- Glandular stomach
- Gizzard
- Intestines
- Heart
- Inner surface of the chest wall
- Some muscles
Air sacculitis/pericarditis

Diagnosis

Symptoms and post mortem examination do not provide definitive evidence of the disease
=> Final diagnosis must await virus isolation and identification in the laboratory

Similar diseases

Fowl cholera
Avian influenza
Fowl pox
CRD
Infectious bronchitis
Laryngotracheitis
Pacheco's parrot disease (psittacine birds)
Psittacosis (chlamydiosis) (psittacine birds)
Also management errors such as deprivation of water, air, feed

Treatment

No treatment

Prevention

Hygiene:
- Strict isolation of outbreaks
- Destruction of all infected and exposed birds
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of premises
- Proper carcass disposal
- Pest control in flocks
- Depopulation followed by 21 days before restocking
- Avoidance of contact with birds of unknown health status
- Control of human traffic
- One age group per farm ('all in-all out') breeding is recommended
Vaccination:
- Can markedly reduce the losses in poultry flocks
- Early: possible from 1 - 4 days of life in healthy chickens
- Delayed: 2nd � 3rd week of life increases its efficiency
- Follow the manufacturer�s recommendations at all times

Occurrence

In the UK, isolated cases of this disease were first reported in the 1930s. From 1947 outbreaks occurred here over the next 30 years and there were further isolated cases in 1984, 1996-7 and 2005.
This disease does remain a problem world-wide.
The government organisation DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) is providing the most up-to-date information on the disease.
To obtain further information, please visit the DEFRA website and check out:
Disease Fact sheet
Disease Control: Slaughter policy
Outbreak Management

Cataract in Dogs and Cats

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-06-11 23:33:11

Cataract is a common eye condition, which occurs frequently in elderly animals. It may also affect younger animals in special circumstances. Cataract can be a debilitating disease and cause blindness. When suspected, it needs proper assessment, monitoring, and sometimes treatment.

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Glaucoma: A Painful Eye Disease

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-05-31 01:32:18

There are various forms of glaucoma that can affect our pets, and the most common forms in pets are not the same as the human form of the disease. However, just like in people, glaucoma in pets result in increased pressure inside the affected eye.

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Antifreeze Poisoning

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-05-25 15:02:58

The anti-freeze used in our cars is potentially very toxic. It has a sweet taste and may appeal to both our dogs and our cats. It leads to severe kidney disease and may be fatal. This video will help you prevent such a dramatic event.

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Slug Bait Poisoning

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-05-19 12:23:49

Because of the wet and moderate climate, slugs and snails do very well in the UK. They damage agricultural and horticultural crops as well as our gardens. For that reason, many products have been developed to control this pest. Unfortunately slug bait is also very toxic to our pets.

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Pain Killer Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-05-12 18:26:59

Pet owners occasionally self medicate their pet with human pain killers. Those medications, called anti-inflammatories, are not designed for use in dogs and cats and a minimal human dose can poison a pet. Cats especially seem to be very sensitive to pain killers. This video outlines the specific toxicity of Ibuprofen, Aspirin and Paracetamol in dogs and cats.

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Lily Poisoning in Cats

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-05-07 00:24:23

Lilies are beautiful flowers. They are widely grown in the UK both outdoor in the garden and indoor as potted plants or used in floral arrangements. For that reason, cats often have access to them. This is unfortunate since lilies are exceedingly toxic to cats. This video podcast outlines the various aspects associated with lily poisoning.

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Permethrin Poisoning in Cats

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-05-01 09:11:22

Permethrin is an insecticide used in shampoos, sprays and spot-on flea treatments for dogs. Many spot-on flea products containing permethrin are popular because of their ease of use, relative low cost and wide availability from local pet stores and supermarkets. Unfortunately, it is extremely poisonous to cats and this is the topic for this video podcast.

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Fruit and Veg Poisoning in Dogs

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-04-26 13:25:49

Feeding human foodstuff to our pets may prove dangerous for their health. We have already dedicated a whole podcast on the topic of chocolate poisoning. Well, it isn�t the only potential risk with feeding human food to animals. In today�s video, we are going to outline the risks of fruits and vegetables such as grapes, onions and macadamian nuts to our pets.

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Chocolate Poisoning in Dog

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-04-18 21:11:12

Most people know that chocolate is poisonous to dogs. However we would like to give you more information about this intoxication. The aim of this video is to answer the following questions. Why is chocolate dangerous to your dog while safe for humans? Exactly how much chocolate is dangerous? What happens if your dog eats chocolate?

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Rat Bait Poisoning

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-04-12 23:27:59

Mankind and rats have been at odds for thousands of years and rodent removal services remain an important part of pest extermination in the UK even now in the 21st century. While one may want to get rid of rats, one certainly does not want a hazard to the children or pets of the family. This is the topic of this video podcast.

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Monkey Caesarean

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-04-03 12:35:56

A caesarean section, also known as C-section, is a common procedure performed by veterinarians. The operation is an incision through the abdominal wall to deliver a baby. Monkeys are not pets but might be kept in various specialised zoos throughout the UK. Amongst the monkey population, Tamarins and Marmosets do commonly require C-sections.

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Cow caesarean section

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-28 23:33:20

A caesarean section, also known as C-section, is a common procedure performed by veterinarians. The procedure involves an incision through the abdominal wall to deliver the calf. In the hand of an experienced veterinarian, it is not only a life saving procedure but also proves quite comfortable for both the cow and the calf. The procedure can often be performed in the field.

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Avian flu (5): The disease in other mammals

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-26 22:44:00

This disease has been widely covered by the media in regards to the pandemic it may cause in humans. However we should not forget that it may impact on the well being of our pets. The fact is that avian flu cases have been reported in other species than birds and humans. We are going concentrate on that aspect in this program.

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Avian Flu (4): The disease in birds

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-20 12:20:49

Millions of birds have been infected with the H5N1 avian flu virus. Many of them already died and the disease has spread from Asia to the UK despite aggressive sanitary measures. This podcast analyses how the disease is affecting the birds themselves: How does it spread? What are the symptoms? Where does it happen and what to do if you find a dead bird in the UK?

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Avian Flu (3): Human risks, today and tomorrow

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-17 19:31:17

The avian flu virus has already killed millions of birds and the disease spreads quickly between the birds despite aggressive sanitary measures. In humans, the situation is rather different. This podcast analyses the human health risks caused by the avian flu virus both right now and in the futur.

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Avian Flu (2): Threat of a pandemic

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-09 01:08:46

The risk from avian flu is generally low to most people. However, scientists are concerned that the H5N1 virus could one day be able to infect humans and spread easily from one person to another. We will explain how the virus which is today very contagious to birds may become tomorrow very contagious to humans.

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Avian Flu (1): The H5N1 virus

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-04 16:03:27

Following the most recent outbreak of bird flu in British turkeys, we decided to focus on the H5N1 virus. Avian flu refers to influenza viruses found in birds. The risk from avian flu is generally low to most people. However, confirmed cases of human infection from an avian influenza virus called H5N1 have been reported since 1997. Scientists are concerned that H5N1 virus one day could be able to infect humans and spread easily from one person to another.

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Equine Viral Arteritis

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-03-03 12:29:57

Equine viral arteritis (EVA) is a highly contagious venereal disease affecting horses. The virus occurs worldwide including mainland Europe. The disease causes abortion and respiratory symptoms. In the UK, the latest confirmed case was reported in 2004.
What are the symptoms of EIA?

1. Abortion:
A pregnant mare infected with EVA may pass the virus to her unborn foetus. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, the foetus can become infected, die and be aborted. If the infected foal is born, it will only live for a few days
2. Respiratory disease, Flu-like symptoms:
Fever
Lethargy
Muscle soreness
Nasal discharge
Ocular discharge
Skin rash
Swollen eyelids
Swollen genitals (stallions)
Swollen mammary glands (mares)
Swollen legs
3. No symptoms at all:
Many horses infected with EVA show no symptoms at all
Even when there are no signs, infection can still be transmitted and stallions might still become shedders

How does the transmission occur?

4 main ways:
1. Respiratory secretions from coughing and sneezing
2. Mating: venereal infection of mares by infected stallions
3. Artificial insemination: semen from infected stallions. The virus can survive in chilled and frozen semen
4. Aborted foetuses and other after birth products
The importance of the shedder Stallion:
Following an infection, he recovers from acute illness and his fertility is not affected. He will show no further clinical signs of infection. Infected stallions are very likely to become virus carriers for a long time. Once stallions are in the carrier state, they transmit the virus to mares during breeding.
It is important to note that:
The shedder stallion is always seropositive (ie past or existing Infection indicated in a blood test) but that a seropositive stallion is not necessarily a shedder.
Stallions that compete abroad can be infected at any time by the respiratory route, even if they do not cover mares while travelling.

How is EIA diagnosed?

1. Symptoms: Difficult to interprete
Respiratory problem + abortion
Because of the variability or the possible absence of symptoms, clinical diagnosis is not always possible
2. Laboratory: Essential
Appropriate samples (blood, swabs, foetus and its membranes if abortion) to be taken by a veterinary surgeon and sent to a specialist laboratory
Blood is the most common method of diagnosis

Treatment

No specific treatment available for EVA
Medications are available to alleviate some of its symptoms

Control Measures

Vaccination (Artervac, Fort Dodge)
Available in the UK
Good safety data
Efficacy
o Experimentally: it can protect horses 3 weeks after the second dose of vaccine is given
o In the field: unknown
Veterinary advice should be sought on vaccination timings and administration
Vaccinated horses will become seropositive
o Mandatory blood test immediately before vaccination to show that they were previously seronegative
o Details about the prior blood test and the vaccination, both primary and booster, should be recorded in the horse's passport
Blood testing
All stallions and mares each season before breeding starts
Results should be recorded in the horse's passport
Particular care should be taken if importing horses, semen or equine embryos. EVA virus survives in chilled and frozen semen and is not affected by the antibiotics added. Specialist veterinary advice should be taken before proceeding.

Government Regulations

EIA is a notifiable disease which means that "any person having in their possession or under their charge an animal affected or suspected of having one of these diseases must, with all practicable speed, notify that fact to a police constable."
The government organisation DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) provides the most up-to-date information on the disease.
To obtain further information, please visit the DEFRA website and check out the Equine viral arteritis Fact sheet.

Contagious Equine Metritis

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 23:41:16

Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) is a transmissible, venereal disease of horses. Although it is not a cause of mortality, the condition represents a serious disease because it is highly contagious: nearly every mare mated with an infected stallion will become infected. Since mares can be bred only during certain seasons, CEM can have a devastating effect on equine reproductive efficiency. An epidemic of CEM would trigger great economic losses for the equine industry.

History and spread of the disease

The first CEM was diagnosed in England in 1977.
Because of the insidious nature of the disease, it is difficult to determine its origin or how widely it is distributed throughout the world. However it is known that the disease affects many European countries.

What causes EIA?

CEM is a bacterial infection. The bug causing the disease is called Taylorella equigenitalis.

What are the symptoms of CEM?

1. Stallions:
No clinical sign
Can carry the disease for years
2. Mares:
Infertility
Failure to conceive (Early return to oestrus after breeding)
Abortion (rare)
There are three general degrees of infection in mares:

1. Acute
Active inflammation of the uterus
Obvious thick, milky, mucoid vulvar discharge
Occurs 10 to 14 days after breeding
2. Chronic
Milder uterine inflammation
Less obvious vulvar discharge
Infection may be more difficult to eliminate
3. Carrier
No clinical signs
Carries the bug
Can remain a carrier for several months or longer

How does the transmission occur?

Directly: During sexual intercourse
Indirectly: Artificial insemination (contact with contaminated hands or instruments)
Undetected carrier mares and stallions are the source of infection for acute outbreaks of the disease. During the breeding season, a carrier stallion may infect several mares before the disease is suspected or diagnosed.

How is EIA diagnosed?

In view of specific clinical signs
Abundant vaginal discharge 10 to 14 days after breeding
Premature return to oestrus
Disease affects several mares after being mated to the same stallion
Laboratory test
Definitive diagnosis is by isolation of the causative organism from swabs of the genital tract.

Similar diseases

Other genital infections in mares:
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Differentiating these infections from CEM cannot be reliably done except by laboratory isolation of the CEM organism

Treatment

Systemic antibiotics
Disinfectant washing of the penis or clitoral area
Surgical excision of the clitoral sinuses can eliminate the organism in carrier mares

Prevention

Check stallions, teasers and mares for infection before they are mated: this is done through swabbing
If a horse proves to be infected, do not use it for mating until the infection has been successfully treated
Always exercise strict hygiene measures when handling mares, stallions and teasers

Control Measures

Stop mating by the infected horse(s)
Treat the infection and re-swab to check that the infection has cleared up before resuming mating
Exercise strict hygiene measures when handling the horses involved

Government Regulations

CEM is a notifiable disease which means that "any person having in their possession or under their charge an animal affected or suspected of having one of these diseases must, with all practicable speed, notify that fact to a police constable."
The government organisation DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) provides the most up-to-date information on the disease. To obtain further information, please visit the DEFRA website and check out the Disease Fact sheet

Equine Infectious Anemia

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 21:48:31

Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), also known as Swamp Fever, is an infectious disease of horses, donkeys and mules caused by a virus. Horses infected with the EIA virus carry it for life. Most infected horses show no symptoms but they remain infectious, endangering the health of other horses. The best protection against EIA is to understand the disease and the control measures that can help keep your horse(s) from contracting it.
History and spread of the disease

EIA has a worldwide distribution.
Early 19th century: France, Japan, America
1980 to 1989: America, Asia (India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, Europe (Austria, France, Greece, Italy, Romania, USSR and Yugoslavia) and Australia
More recently, the disease has been recognized in Ireland where the latest case of EIA was confirmed on 10 December 2006. This is the 28th case confirmed in Ireland since the outbreak began in June 2006

What causes EIA?

EIA is a viral disease that affects the horse�s immune system. The virus reproduces in the horse�s blood cells and circulates throughout the body. The horse�s immune system produces antibodies which attack and destroy its own blood cell components.
The result is:
Anemia
Organ-damaging inflammation

What are the symptoms of EIA?

Variable and include:
Fever
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Swelling under the belly and legs
Muscle weakness and wasting
Jaundice
Infertility
EIA can leave a horse vulnerable to other potentially fatal diseases.

EIA has three phases

1. ACUTE: Virus is active and multiplying
Immune system is damaged
Horse is very ill and may die
Heavy concentrations of the virus in the horse�s bloodstream
2. CHRONIC: Classic �swamper�
Alternate between remission and disease states
High concentrations of the virus in the horse�s bloodstream
3. INAPPARENT CARRIER: Horse carries the virus
No apparent signs of illness
Stress or disease may trigger an acute episode

How does the transmission occur?

Blood-borne disease:

Natural feeding of large biting insects (Horseflies, Deerflies)
Contaminated needles
Contaminated surgical and dental instruments

How is EIA diagnosed?

By Blood testing: Coggins/AGID test (Agar Gel ImmunoDiffusion)
This test, developed in 1970 by Dr. Leroy Coggins, consistently and reliably detects the presence of EIA-specific antibodies in the blood. A positive test indicates a horse is infected and carries the EIA virus. Positive tests are redone several times to guarantee their accuracy.

Similar diseases

Other fever�producing diseases like:
Anthrax
Influenza
Equine encephalitis

Treatment/Prevention

At this time, there is no treatment or cure for a horse that has contracted EIA. There is also no vaccine available to protect a horse from the EIA virus.

Control Measures

1. Test all horses for EIA annually

2. Test horses at greater risk every 4-6 months
- Request a current negative Coggins certificate:
Before introducing any new horses to the farm or ranch
For all horses entering horse show and event
- Quarantine new horses for 45 days and observe them for any signs of illness before introducing them to the herd and retest them if EIA exposure is suspected
A. Use only one disposable needle or syringe per horse when administering vaccines or medications
B. Sterilize dental tools before using them on another horse
C. Keep all stable areas clean, dry and waste-free
D. Practice good pasture management techniques
Remove manure
Provide adequate drainage: Insects are abundant in damp, swampy areas

Government Regulations

EIA is a notifiable disease which means that "any person having in their possession or under their charge an animal affected or suspected of having one of these diseases must, with all practicable speed, notify that fact to a police constable."
The government organisation DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) is providing the most up-to-date information on the disease. To obtain further information, please visit the DEFRA website and check out the Disease Fact sheet.

Poultry: Egg-laying disorders

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 17:36:34

In some hens, the egg-laying process goes wrong. Egg production falls or stops, there is a messy, odorous discharge from the vent or the bird's abdomen swells. This article looks at several egg-laying disorders, their possible causes and remedies.

Vent gleet

1. Symptoms:
Lethargy
Decreased egg production
Vent presents with:
- Messy, smelly discharge
- Swollen, reddened skin
- Sticky, soiled feathers
- Coating of white crusty material
2. Treatment:
Isolation of affected individuals (contagious disorder)
Cleansing and veterinary treatment may help
Humane culling

Egg bound

1. Cause:
Large egg
Growth/Tumours of the oviduct
2. Symptoms:
Unsuccessful straining attempts to lay
Protrusion of the oviduct
Cannibalism/pecking from other fowls
Death
3. Treatment:
Lubricating the oviduct and breaking the egg
Humane culling

Egg peritonitis

1. Cause:
Egg material not getting into the oviduct but into the abdominal cavity:
Oviduct blockage
Egg bound
Physical stress
Damage to the hen (dog attack)
2. Symptoms:
Purulent abdominal infection
Swollen abdomen
Miserable look
May waddle like a duck
3. Treatment:
None, Humane culling

Prolapse

This is when the oviduct is forced out and protrudes from the vent of the hen.
1. Cause:
Vent gleet
Egg bound
Oversized egg
Growths or tumours
Fright
2. Symptoms:
Cannibalism/pecking from other fowls
Death
3. Treatment:
Isolation
Washing/ Cleaning/ Replacing the oviduct
Humane culling

Poultry: Coccidiosis

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 15:21:24

Coccidiosis is one of the more common and costly diseases in poultry. It is characterised by droopiness, paleness of the comb, diarrhoea and occasionally blood in the droppings. The death rate may be quite high, both in chicks and in adults.

Scientific name

Eimeria spp

Cause

Coccidiosis in chickens is caused by seven different species of coccidia (genus Eimeria), which are single celled parasites that live in the gut wall of their host. These coccidia are host specific: turkeys and other species are not infected by fowl coccidia and vice-versa. The different species of coccidia live in different parts of the gut and can be divided into those causing intestinal coccidiosis (the majority) or caecal coccidiosis (one species).

Spread

Ingestions of faecal material containing the infective stage of the coccidian (small egg-like bodies called oocysts) which:
Remain alive for a year in poultry sheds
Very resistant to most disinfectants

Symptoms

Mainly young birds (less than 3 weeks)
Lethargy
Muscle waste
Pallor
Ruffled feathers
Drooping wings
Pale and dry shanks
Whitish soiling around the vents
Diarrhoea (with blood)
Sudden death

Post mortem findings

Depends on the type of coccidian responsible:

1. Caecal coccidiosis:

Swollen blind guts (caeca)
Caeca filled with blood/ cheesy plugs
2. Intestinal coccidiosis:
White streaks/ spots in upper gut
Intestin filled with blood
Red spots/ dead tissue in lower gut

Diagnosis

Definite diagnosis can be confirmed only by laboratory examination. Material scraped from the lining of the gut is examined under a microscope and the coccidia are identified based on shape, size and location in the gut.
Coccidiosis can be confused with similar diseases such as blackhead, salmonellosis and necrotic enteritis.

Similar diseases

Blackhead
Salmonellosis
Necrotic enteritis

Prevention - management aspects

Because coccidia require moisture to become infective, the litter must be kept dry. Ventilation must be good and the birds should not be overcrowded.
Birds gradually become immune if they are exposed to a low level of infection, but clinical disease occurs if the coccidiosis challenge is too great.
Immunity to one species of coccidia does not protect poultry against other coccidial species.
It is very risky to rely on hygiene alone to produce satisfactory control.

Vaccination

Effective live vaccines are available in the UK
Early exposure advisable
Closely follow the manufacturer's recommendations

Medication

Medication programs may be used as an alternative to vaccination. A wide selection of drugs (coccidiostatics) is available for prevention and treatment. The choice of drug will depend on the type of flock, the type of coccidia and the aim of the medication program. Most coccidiostatics have withholding periods and medication programs must take this into account.
Low dose rates of coccidiostatic may:
Slow down a major build-up of coccidian
Reduce the challenge to the bird
Prevent outbreaks while allowing immunity to develop
Be overwhelmed by heavy infestations
Outbreaks of coccidiosis may occur if:
Low level of coccidiostatic in the feed
Birds are not eating enough
Early (before immunity has developed) withdrawal of coccidiostatic
Lack of vitamin A and K
Other diseases

Treatment

Treatment should start immediately when coccidiosis has been diagnosed. Whichever drug is used, the manufacturer's instructions must be followed.
Coccidiosis will often respond to treatment using coccidiostatics delivered in the drinking water.

Poultry: Botulism

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 14:50:29

Botulism, also known as limber-neck, is a food poisoning caused by the ingestion of a preformed toxin. This poison is produced by Clostridium botulinum which is a bacterium living on decaying animal and vegetable matter. Its spores can remain dormant in contaminated soil for years, and germinate into toxin - producing bacteria when a suitable nutrient source and an anaerobic environment are available. The disease is characterised by paralysis of the neck and limbs. Usually a number of birds are affected and they succumb quickly.

Scientific name

Clostridium botulinum

Cause

Botulism is caused by ingestion of the toxin from Clostridium botulinum which grows in:
Decaying carcasses
Decaying plant and animal matter
Stagnant pools contaminated by rotting material
Maggots and litter beetles
Warmer months
When material containing the toxin is eaten by birds the characteristic symptoms of intoxication known as botulism will occur if the dose of toxin is high enough.

Species susceptible

All domestic poultry and most wild birds especially:
Fowls
Turkeys
Water fowl
Pheasants
Carrion-eating birds can withstand large doses of the toxin without showing any symptoms.

Symptoms

First signs are seen 12 to 48 hours after toxin ingestion which triggers a flaccid (relaxed) paralysis of:
Neck
Wings
Legs
Eyelids
Feather follicles
The result is:
Drooping heads (later may rest on the ground)
Drooping wings
Closed eyelids
Drowsiness
Reluctance to move
Loss of appetite
Greenish diarrhoea
Mucoid saliva from the beak
Easily plucked feathers
The bird may lapse into a coma then die.

Diagnosis

1. Characteristic features of the disease
2. Absence of lesion at post mortem examination
3. Demonstration of toxin (lab):
in the gut contents/blood
in suspected toxin sources (carrion/feed)

Similar diseases

Fowl Tick Fever - Spirochaetosis
Marek's Disease
Fowl Cholera and other septicaemias

Control

Remove the source of the toxin
Keep birds away from suspect sources
Remove dead birds
Supply clean feed and water
Clean up around stagnant pools
Ensure that all feed is fed in containers and not on the ground
Control maggots and litter beetles

Treatment

1. Due to the acute action of the botulinum toxin, treatment is usually not attempted.
2. Sick birds should be isolated and provided with food and water. Supportive therapy with antibiotics and vitamins has been helpful in some cases.
3. Birds which live through 48 hours of illness usually recover.

Poultry: Black head

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 12:49:50

Blackhead is a severe protozoan disease of turkeys and peafowls and also affects fowls and game birds. It is also known as entero-hepatitis and histomoniasis. The condition is characterised by caecal (blind gut) and liver lesions. Fowls tend to be more resistant to Blackhead and therefore should not be run with turkeys. Blackhead mainly causes deaths in birds 3 to 18 weeks of age and is probably the most serious disease confronting the turkey producer.

Scientific name

Histomonas meleagridis

Cause

Blackhead is caused by the protozoan organism Histomonas meleagridis.
Damages the caecal wall
Allow secondary infection to occur (Clostridium perfringens, Bacillus subtilis)
Spread to the liver causing yellow droppings.
The caecal worm (Heterakis gallinae) is always present during blackhead outbreaks although can be present without blackhead occurring.
Histomonas can:
� Shelter within the egg of Heterakis
� Survive in the soil for up to four years within Heterakis eggs
� Spread via earthworms eating Heterakis eggs
Hence poultry houses can be difficult to clean up once they are infected.

Species affected

Chicken
Turkey
Peafowl
Game bird

Birds with lowered resistance due to factors such as fowl pox or nutritional diseases are more severely affected. It also seems that turkeys are more susceptible.

Symptoms

Blackhead is a disease of the caecum and liver.
1. Fowls
Young chickens only (3-4 weeks old)
Lethargy
Weakness
Drooping heads and wings
Yellow droppings
Muscle waste
Death (10%)
2. Turkeys
Young and older birds (usually 18-20weeks old)
Weakness
Ruffled feathers
Soiled vent feathers (diarrhoea)
Drooping heads and wings
Bright yellow-sulphur droppings
Darkened heads
Death 2-3days following the first signs (up to 100%)
Turkeys are clinically affected about 10 days after infection and death occurs 2 to 3 days later with up to 100% mortality.

Post mortem findings

1. Caecum (blind gut):
Haemorrhage
Inflammation
Thickening
Ulceration
Grey-yellow cheesy cores of necrotic (dead) tissue - often streaked with blood
2. Liver:
This is more common with turkeys than with chickens
Round, creamy-yellow depressions of necrotic tissue
(pinhead size up to 1cm in diameter)

Transmission

The ingestion of Histomonas meleagridis is possible through:
Contaminated droppings (in young birds)
Contaminated caecal worms (Heterakis)
Contaminated earthworms

Diagnosis

Compatible symptoms and post mortem examination

Similar diseases

1. Chickens
Coccidiosis
Heavy worm burdens
Fowl cholera.
2. Turkeys
Hexamitiasis
Coccidiosis
Cholera

Treatment and control

1. Management
Control of blackhead relies on the removal of caecal worm (Heterakis) eggs from the cycle and providing areas which are not heavily contaminated with the blackhead organism (Histomonas).
Major management factors:
Keep turkeys and chickens apart ensuring drainage does not occur from chicken to turkey runs
Caecal worm (Heterakis) control - suitable treatments are available
Poultry should be brooded away from ranged turkeys and chickens - avoid contamination of ground
Keep turkeys away from earthworms
Ensure feeders and waterers are not contaminated with droppings and are moved to clean areas regularly
2 Medication
Little immunity is developed to blackhead although chickens are more resistant.
Successful control and treatment is accomplished by using drugs in combination with improved hygiene and management.
Preventative or curative medications may be administered through the feed or the water. Treatment in water is the most common method used, flocks normally being medicated for several days. The manufacturer�s directions should be closely followed.

Flea Allergy

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-19 11:32:35

In the UK, flea allergy is considered the most common single cause for consultation of a veterinarian. People sometimes get offended when a diagnosis of flea allergy is made. They believe the vet is suggesting that their pet is a flea bag. That is not what we mean and the aim of this article is to explain what flea allergy really is and what can be done about it.

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Poultry: Chronic Respiratory Disease

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-18 21:07:13

Chronic respiratory disease (CRD) is one of the most common respiratory diseases of poultry. The disease occurs when birds infected with Mycoplasma gallisepticum are stressed. The subsequent invasion by secondary bacteria causes the major damage to the bird.

Scientific name

Mycoplasma gallisepticum plus other organisms

Cause

Mycoplasma gallisepticum
+ Chronic stress factor
+ Secondary coliform organisms

Species susceptible

Chickens
Turkeys

Incidence

Very widespread and present in most commercial flocks

Transmission

CRD is the most prevalent of the so called 'stress diseases' and outbreaks occur most frequently at times of stress:
Moving
Chilling
Vaccinating
Beak trimming
Worming
Poor ventilation
Damp litter
Ammonia build-up
Other diseases

However, transmission may occur in flocks that appear to be perfectly healthy.

1. Egg Transmission
Major importance as the means by which the disease perpetuates itself
2. Airborne (aerosol)
Generally rapid, but does not travel long distances
3. Indirect or mechanical

Infected Carrier birds
Persons such as service personnel
Vaccinators and blood testers
Equipment (crates, vehicles, and vaccinating equipment)

Incubation period

Incubation is 5 to l0 days.

Symptoms

Sniffing
Rattling
Sneezing
Coughing
Wet noses
Retarded growth in growing birds
Production loss (20 to 30%) in hens
Deaths are few in uncomplicated cases

The disease spreads slowly through the flock and there is a continual cycle of re-infection so that the disease never disappears by itself.

Financial losses are due to:
- Poor feed conversion
- Retarded growth
- Drug costs
- Mortality
- Increased culling
- Poor production

Diagnosis may prove tricky

Isolation of mycoplasma is difficult
Must be confirmed to be Mycoplasma gallisepticum (other types of Mycoplasma exist)
Blood tests vary in reliability

Post mortem

Mucus in the trachea, sinuses and bronchi
Cloudy, thickened air sacs
Perihepatitis
Pericarditis

Similar diseases

Coryza
Infectious bronchitis
Infectious laryngotracheitis
Fowl cholera

Treatment

1. Antibiotics:
Help control the disease
Minimise secondary bacterial complications
Do not control the disease completely

2. Flock management:
Control stress factor
Hygiene
Isolate young birds from older birds
Isolate affected groups (50 to 100m apart)
Buy vaccinated pullets
All-in, all-out management

Prevention

1. Antibiotics:
The organism may be present in a flock without producing any signs of disease. It will spread slowly to other birds until the birds are 'stressed' when it will spread more rapidly.
=> Where CRD is a problem: Treat the flock before the birds are stressed
- In the first 3 days of life
- At four weeks of age
- At maturity

These measures may not prevent the disease but will lessen the likelihood of an outbreak.
2. Vaccination:
Pullets reared in isolation can be vaccinated to prevent infection with Mycoplasma gallisepticum.

The Flea Life Cycle

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2007-02-15 20:14:06

Fleas are very common parasites of our pets and most of you will know that it can be a real struggle to get rid of them. We believe it�s important to understand how fleas survive and breed to be able to competently organise their prevention in our homes.

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Hip Dysplasia: symptoms and diagnosis

jrenard@vetstoria.com (vetstoria) — 2006-11-15 11:30:00

Hip dysplasia is painful condition triggering arthritis and lameness in the back legs of our pets. It is most common in large, fast-growing dogs and may be very distressing and debilitating for the affected individuals. The article will deal with the following questions: Who gets hip dysplasia? What is it? What are the symptoms associated with this condition? How is it diagnosed?

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