Surgical extraction techniques for companion animals

The extraction of teeth in cats and dogs is a common surgical intervention in veterinary practice. This article describes the correct technical approach to the surgical extraction of dental elements, focussing on the indications, possible complications, and advantages of this technique.     

Antimicrobial resistance in companion animals

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an emerging problem in companion animals, because of difficult-to-treat infections, possible pressure to use antimicrobials that are important in human medicine, and potential zoonotic transmission. The extent and importance of AMR in companion animals are poorly understood, in part because of limited surveillance; however, it is clear that resistance is problematic in many pathogens and commensals, including staphylococci, enterococci, Escherichia coli and Salmonella.     

Photodynamic therapy for companion animals with cancer.

Photodynamic therapy is an emerging form of cancer therapy in veterinary medicine, which capitalizes on a photochemical reaction to kill malignant cells. Photodynamic therapy has been used to successfully treat a variety of veterinary cancers, with documented efficacy similar to radiation therapy. However, equipment expense and availability of photosensitizer have limited the widespread use of photodynamic therapy by veterinarians.     

Babesiosis of companion animals and man

Babesiosis is caused by numerous organisms and is seen in a wide range of vertebrate hosts. The spectrum of disease is broad and ranges from asymptomatic carrier states to fulminant disease that results in rapid death. The importance of babesiosis in companion animals is well-recognized in parts of the world where virulent strains exist and where the diagnosis and treatment of both typical and atypical presentations is part of the everyday course of events for the small animal clinician. In parts of the world such as the United States where less virulent strains are found, diagnosis is more difficult. Diagnosis requires an astute eye examining the blood smear and a keen mind willing to "consider the zebras without forgetting the horses." Babesiosis is not uncommon in the United States; it is merely uncommonly diagnosed. The small animal clinician needs to be aware of the disease and its myriad possible presentations. A clearer understanding of the disease will lead to a truer picture of its importance not only in the United States but also worldwide.     

Attachment of people to companion animals

Cat and dog owners appear to be equally attached to their pets, engage in similar behaviors, and hold similar opinions regarding their pets. The universality and strength of this attachment may be because household pets fit into the biological attachment system that exists to bond parents and children. Additionally, pets may convey a feeling of security or a sense of well-being that is rooted in our evolutionary past.     

Protocol for diagnosis of seizure disorders in companion animals

An algorism for diagnosis of the problem of seizures was used to develop a diagnostic plan. The plan was structured in stages for: (1) primary evaluation in the general practice and (2) specialized evaluation in difficult cases.     

Rehabilitation of companion animals following orthopaedic surgery

ABSTRACT

Physical therapy and rehabilitation following orthopaedic surgery in companion animals have become more common and new advancements in this field have been made in recent years. Surgery alone may not return the animal to its previous physical activity or work-related tasks, whether due to concurrent soft tissue trauma, arthrogenic muscle inhibition or osteoarthritis. Rehabilitation therapies following surgery can restore function as well as strength, coordination and balance. Many simple techniques such as cryotherapy and passive range of motion exercises have been shown to improve outcomes following musculoskeletal procedures and may help restore function as well as reduce pain and facilitate healing. Some techniques are more useful during different stages in order to achieve optimum tissue healing and recovery of function. During the first 72 hours, rehabilitation should focus on reduction of inflammation and pain, maintaining joint nutrition and range of motion, and stimulating vascularisation and healing; and may include cryotherapy, passive range of motion exercises, massage and therapeutic exercises. Following the initial recovery period, the goals of rehabilitation also include restoring strength, balance and normal gait patterns, as well as recovery of function. During this period the focus of therapy may shift toward therapeutic exercises, aquatic therapy and increasing activity in the animal. Therapeutic modalities such as neuromuscular electrical stimulation, photobiomodulation (laser therapy), therapeutic ultrasound and extracorporeal shock wave therapy have been reported to reduce pain and inflammation, enhance healing and reduce recovery time in the early and late stages following orthopaedic surgery.