Dietary energy restriction and successful weight loss in obese client-owned dogs

BACKGROUND: Obesity is the most common nutritional disease in dogs. Although weight loss by dietary caloric energy restriction is successful in experimental studies, there is limited information on success of such programs in client-owned dogs who are obese. Further, no information currently exists on the changes in body composition during weight loss in clinical cases. HYPOTHESIS: Key determinants of outcome of weight loss, including energy allocation and body composition, are influenced by both individual and weight program factors. ANIMALS: Nineteen client-owned dogs with naturally occurring obesity. METHODS: In this prospective clinical study, body composition was quantified by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry before and after weight loss on an individually tailored program that incorporated a high-protein and moderate-fiber diet. RESULTS: Mean percentage weight loss was 18% (range, 6-29%), and mean rate of weight loss was 0.85% per week (range, 0.35-1.56%). Mean energy allocation required to achieve weight loss was 60% of maintenance energy requirement at target weight (MERTW) (range, 50-82%). Significant dietary noncompliance was reported (mean, 1.0% MERTW; range, 0.0-9.5%). The mean composition of tissue lost was 84: 15:1 (fat : lean : bone mineral content [BMC]). Lean tissue loss was positively associated with overall percentage of weight loss (Pearson correlation coefficient [Rp] = 0.591, P = .008), whereas BMC loss was greater in retrievers compared with other breeds (1.9% +/- 1.16% versus 0.8% +/- 0.44%; P = .008). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: This clinical study demonstrated body composition changes during weight loss in dogs. Conventional programs produced safe weight loss, but marked energy restriction was required and the rate of loss was slower than in experimental studies.     

Efficacy and safety of dirlotapide in the management of obese dogs evaluated in two placebo-controlled, masked clinical studies in North America

Dirlotapide was evaluated in the management of obesity in dogs in two multicenter, clinical studies in North America. A total of 335 obese dogs of various breeds were randomized to dirlotapide or placebo in a 2:1 ratio. Dirlotapide was administered orally once daily to dogs at an initial dose of 0.05 mg/kg, increased after 14 days to 0.1 (study B, label dose) or 0.2 mg/kg (study A) and then adjusted according to individual weight loss at 28-day intervals. Dogs were examined and weighed, and body condition scores (BCSs) were recorded every 28 days. Study A had three consecutive phases: weight loss (16 weeks, day 0-112); weight management (12 weeks); and post-treatment (8 weeks). Study B had a weight loss phase only. For dirlotapide-treated dogs, mean weight loss by day 112 was 11.8-14.0% compared with 3.0-3.9% for placebo (P = 0.0001). In study A, weight losses for dirlotapide were 19.3% after 12 weeks of weight management and 16.7% (regain of 3.4%) by 8 weeks after dirlotapide was discontinued. In both studies, dogs in both treatments had emesis, lethargy, anorexia, diarrhea, and mildly elevated hepatic transaminase activity, that resolved spontaneously with time. These were experienced more frequently with dirlotapide. Improved activity levels and BCS for >50% dogs were reported with dirlotapide. Dirlotapide was safe and effective in the reduction and management of body weight in obese dogs.     

Effects of chronic obesity and weight loss on plasma ghrelin and leptin concentrations in dogs

The objective of this study was to evaluate, in dogs, the effects of obesity and weight loss on plasma total ghrelin and leptin concentrations. Twenty-four Beagle dogs, 12 control lean and 12 obese dogs of both genders and aged between 1 and 9 years, were used for the experiments. Mean body weight was 12.7+/-0.7 kg for the lean group and 21.9+/-0.8 kg for the obese group. The trial was divided into three phases. During phase 1, all 24 Beagle dogs were fed a maintenance diet. During phase 2, the obese dogs were submitted to a weight loss protocol with a high protein-low energy diet. The weight loss protocol ended once dogs reached optimal body weight. During phase 3, the dogs that were submitted to the weight loss protocol were maintained at their optimal body weight for 6 months. Plasma total ghrelin, leptin, insulin and glucose concentrations were measured to evaluate the effects of obesity and weight loss on these parameters in dogs. Body weight, body condition score, thoracic and pelvic perimeters, and ingested food amounts were also recorded during the study. Obese dogs demonstrated a significant decrease in plasma ghrelin and a significant increase in plasma leptin and insulin concentrations when compared with control dogs. During weight loss, significant increases in plasma total ghrelin and glucose and significant decreases in plasma leptin and insulin were observed. The increase in plasma ghrelin concentrations seemed to be transient. Body weight and the morphometric parameters correlated positively with leptin concentrations and negatively with total ghrelin concentrations. These results suggest that ghrelin and leptin could play a role in dogs in the adaptation to a positive or negative energy balance, as observed in humans.     

Efficacy and safety of dirlotapide in the management of obese dogs evaluated in two placebo-controlled, masked clinical studies in North America

Dirlotapide was evaluated in the management of obesity in dogs in two multicenter, clinical studies in North America. A total of 335 obese dogs of various breeds were randomized to dirlotapide or placebo in a 2:1 ratio. Dirlotapide was administered orally once daily to dogs at an initial dose of 0.05 mg/kg, increased after 14 days to 0.1 (study B, label dose) or 0.2 mg/kg (study A) and then adjusted according to individual weight loss at 28-day intervals. Dogs were examined and weighed, and body condition scores (BCSs) were recorded every 28 days. Study A had three consecutive phases: weight loss (16 weeks, day 0–112); weight management (12 weeks); and post-treatment (8 weeks). Study B had a weight loss phase only. For dirlotapide-treated dogs, mean weight loss by day 112 was 11.8–14.0% compared with 3.0–3.9% for placebo ( P  = 0.0001). In study A, weight losses for dirlotapide were 19.3% after 12 weeks of weight management and 16.7% (regain of 3.4%) by 8 weeks after dirlotapide was discontinued. In both studies, dogs in both treatments had emesis, lethargy, anorexia, diarrhea, and mildly elevated hepatic transaminase activity, that resolved spontaneously with time. These were experienced more frequently with dirlotapide. Improved activity levels and BCS for >50% dogs were reported with dirlotapide. Dirlotapide was safe and effective in the reduction and management of body weight in obese dogs.     

Monthly application of 10 per cent moxidectin and 2{middle dot}5 per cent imidacloprid spot-on to prevent relapses in generalised demodicosis: a pilot study

Canine generalised demodicosis (GD) can be difficult to cure, with some dogs requiring life-long treatment. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of monthly 10 per cent moxidectin/2·5 per cent imidacloprid spot-on in maintaining long-term (12 months) clinical and parasitological remission in dogs with relapsing GD. Fourteen dogs were included: 10 with juvenile-onset GD (JOGD) and four with adult-onset GD (AOGD). All?dogs had been treated previously and relapsed (1-4 times). Each dog was treated again with either milbemycin oxime 2 mg/kg or ivermectin 400 μg/kg orally once daily, until two consecutive negative skin scrapings at one-month intervals (total 4-7 months of treatment). After treatment discontinuation, 10 per cent moxidectin/2·5 per cent imidacloprid spot-on was applied monthly for 12 months. Dogs were rechecked after 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 months, and multiple skin scrapings were taken. Twelve dogs completed the study and were clinically normal and parasitologically negative at each recheck (four dogs with AOGD and eight with JOGD). One dog died suddenly for unrelated reasons, and one dog relapsed. Results of this pilot study suggest that monthly application of 10 per cent moxidectin/2·5 per cent imidacloprid spot-on may be effective as maintenance therapy in relapsing cases of GD.     

An evaluation of dirlotapide to reduce body weight of client-owned dogs in two placebo-controlled clinical studies in Europe

The clinical efficacy for weight loss and safety of dirlotapide in dogs were evaluated in two multi-centre studies with parallel designs. Overweight, adult dogs ( n  = 245) of various breeds were randomized to treatment with dirlotapide or placebo in a 2:1 ratio. Dirlotapide was administered orally once daily to dogs at an initial dose of 0.05 mg/kg/day commencing on day 0 and doubled after 14 days. Every 28 days, dogs were examined, weighed, body condition scores (BCS) were recorded, and dose was adjusted to meet weight loss targets. Each study comprised three consecutive phases: weight-loss (up to day 196); weight-stabilization (84 days); and post-treatment (28 days). pre-treatment feeding and exercise regimens were continued during treatment. Dirlotapide-treated dogs showed mean weight loss of 15.9% (study A) and 14.0% (study B) by the end of weight loss phase (up to day 196). Percentage weekly weight losses for dirlotapide were significantly greater than for placebo ( P  ≤ 0.0002). Emesis and diarrhoea were experienced in both treatments but were more frequent with dirlotapide; resolution was spontaneous. BCS improved for 75.7–82.5% of dogs on dirlotapide treatment compared with 15.4–41.4% for placebo. Mean dirlotapide dosage at end of weight-loss phase was 0.38 (study A) and 0.29 (study B) mg/kg initial body weight/day. Dirlotapide was found to be clinically safe and effective in the reduction of body weight in overweight dogs.     

Effect of the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor acarbose on control of glycemia in dogs with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate effect of acarbose on control of glycemia in dogs with diabetes mellitus. DESIGN: Prospective randomized crossover controlled trial. ANIMALS: 5 dogs with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus. PROCEDURE: Dogs were treated with acarbose and placebo for 2 months each: in 1 of 2 randomly assigned treatment sequences. Dogs that weighed < or = 10 kg (22 lb; n = 3) or > 10 kg (2) were given 25 or 50 mg of acarbose, respectively, at each meal for 2 weeks, then 50 or 100 mg of acarbose, respectively, at each meal for 6 weeks, with a 1-month interval between treatments. Caloric intake, type of insulin, and frequency of insulin administration were kept constant, and insulin dosage was adjusted as needed to maintain control of glycemia. Serum glucose concentrations, blood glycosylated hemoglobin concentration, and serum fructosamine concentration were determined. RESULTS: Significant differences in mean body weight and daily insulin dosage among dogs treated with acarbose and placebo were not found. Mean preprandial serum glucose concentration, 8-hour mean serum glucose concentration, and blood glycosylated hemoglobin concentration were significantly lower in dogs treated with insulin and acarbose, compared with insulin and placebo. Semisoft to watery feces developed in 3 dogs treated with acarbose. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Acarbose may be useful as an adjunctive treatment in diabetic dogs in which cause for poor glycemic control cannot be identified, and insulin treatment alone is ineffective.     

Effect of early enteral nutrition on intestinal permeability, intestinal protein loss, and outcome in dogs with severe parvoviral enteritis

A randomized, controlled clinical trial investigated the effect of early enteral nutrition (EN) on intestinal permeability, intestinal protein loss, and outcome in parvoviral enteritis. Dogs were randomized into 2 groups: 15 dogs received no food until vomiting had ceased for 12 hours (mean 50 hours after admission; NPO group), and 15 dogs received early EN by nasoesophageal tube from 12 hours after admission (EEN group). All other treatments were identical. Intestinal permeability was assessed by 6-hour urinary lactulose (L) and rhamnose (R) recoveries (%L, %R) and L/R recovery ratios. Intestinal protein loss was quantified by fecal alpha1-proteinase inhibitor concentrations (alpha1-PI). Median time to normalization of demeanor, appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea was 1 day shorter for the EEN group for each variable. Body weight increased insignificantly from admission in the NPO group (day 3: 2.5 +/- 2.8%; day 6: 4.3 +/- 2.3%; mean +/- SE), whereas the EEN group exhibited significant weight gain (day 3: 8.1 +/- 2.7%; day 6: 9.7 +/- 2.1%). Mean urinary %L was increased, %R reduced, and L/R recovery ratios increased compared to reference values throughout the study for both groups. Percent lactulose recovery decreased in the EEN group (admission: 22.6 +/- 8.0%; day 6: 17.9 +/- 2.3%) and increased in the NPO group (admission: 11.0 +/- 2.6%; day 6: 22.5 +/- 4.6%, P = .035). Fecal alpha1-PI was above reference values in both groups and declined progressively. No significant differences occurred for %R, L/R ratios, or alpha1-PI between groups. Thirteen NPO dogs and all EEN dogs survived (P = .48). The EEN group showed earlier clinical improvement and significant weight gain. The significantly decreased %L in the EEN versus NPO group might reflect improved gut barrier function, which could limit bacterial or endotoxin translocation.     

Long-term follow-up after weight management in obese dogs: the role of diet in preventing regain

Regain after weight loss is widely reported in humans, but there is little information on this phenomenon in dogs. The current study aim was to determine long-term success of a weight loss regime and those factors linked with regain. Thirty-three obese dogs, that had successfully lost weight, were included, all enrolled between December 2004 and May 2009. After weight loss, dogs were switched to a maintenance regime and follow-up weight checks were performed periodically. A review of cases that had completed their weight programme was held during the summer of 2010 and a follow-up check was subsequently conducted, where dogs were reweighed and information was collected on current feeding practices. Median duration of follow-up was 640 days (119-1828 days). Fourteen dogs (42%) maintained weight, 3 (9%) lost >5% additional weight, and 16 (48%) gained >5% weight. Dogs fed a purpose-formulated weight loss diet regained less weight than those switched onto a standard maintenance diet (P=0.0016). Energy intake at the time of follow-up was significantly higher in those dogs fed a standard maintenance diet, compared with those that had remained on a purpose-formulated weight loss diet (P=0.017). These results suggest that weight regain occurs in about half of dogs after successful weight loss. Long-term use of a purpose-formulated weight management diet can significantly limit regain in the follow-up period, likely by limiting food intake.     

Evaluation of efficacy of selamectin, fipronil, and imidacloprid against Ctenocephalides felis in dogs

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate efficacy of monthly administration of selamectin, fipronil, and imidacloprid against Ctenocephalides felis in dogs. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. ANIMALS: 44 healthy dogs. PROCEDURE: Dogs known to be free of fleas were infested with 100 unfed adult fleas on days -28 and -21. On days 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120, dogs (12/group) were treated by topical administration of selamectin (6 mg/kg [2.7 mg/lb] of body weight), fipronil (7.5 mg/kg [3.4 mg/lb]), or imidacloprid (10 mg/kg [4.5 mg/lb]); 8 untreated dogs were used as controls. On day -6 and every 2 weeks after initial treatment, comb counts of viable adult fleas were made, and fleas (< or =50/dog) were replaced onto the dog from which they were removed. On day 89, fleas were not replaced. On day 91 and every 7 days until the end of the study, dogs were challenged with 20 adult fleas. RESULTS: 14 days after initial treatment, geometric mean flea counts were reduced by 97.5 to 99.1 % for all treatments, compared with pretreatment counts on day -6. Selamectin, fipronil, and imidacloprid reduced geometric mean flea counts by 99.7 to 100% from day 29 to the end of the study. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Selamectin is as effective as fipronil and imidacloprid in reducing C felis infestation in dogs housed for 3 months in a flea-infested environment under conditions known to support the flea life cycle, and in protecting against subsequent weekly challenges with C felis for an additional 2 months.     

Evaluation of a single injection of a sustained-release formulation of moxidectin for prevention of experimental heartworm infection after 12 months in dogs

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a single injection of a sustained-release formulation of moxidectin in preventing heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection for 12 months in dogs. ANIMALS: 14 healthy dogs. PROCEDURE: Group A (nontreated control dogs; n = 6) received sterile vehicle administered SC, and group B (treated dogs; n = 6) received a sustained-release formulation of moxidectin administered SC. All dogs were housed in a heartworm-endemic area for 11.5 months, and heartworm antigen and modified Knott tests were performed monthly. All dogs (including 2 additional control dogs [group C]) were then inoculated with infective-stage larvae (L3) of D. immitis, and 4.5 months later, all dogs were euthanatized and post-mortem examinations were performed. Adult D. immitis were counted and measured, and their age was estimated. RESULTS: All dogs in groups A and C were infected with young (4- to 4.5-month old) adult male and female D. immitis. No dogs in group B were infected with heartworms. CONCLUSIONS AND. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The age of heartworms recovered suggests that infection was the result of experimental inoculation and not natural exposure to mosquitoes during the 11.5-month period the dogs resided in a heartworm-endemic area. A single SC injection of a sustained-release formulation of moxidectin was effective in providing protection against heartworm infection after 12 months in dogs. This formulation is a convenient method of heartworm prophylaxis that could eliminate the problem of poor owner compliance.     

Use of starting condition score to estimate changes in body weight and composition during weight loss in obese dogs

Prior to starting a weight loss programme, target weight (TW) is often estimated, using starting body condition score (BCS). The current study assessed how well such estimates perform in clinical practice. Information on body weight, BCS and body composition was assessed before and after weight loss in 28 obese, client-owned dogs. Median decrease in starting weight per BCS unit was 10% (5–15%), with no significant difference between dogs losing moderate (1–2 BCS points) or marked (3–4 BCS points) amounts of weight (P = 0.627). Mean decrease in body fat per BCS unit change was 5% (3–9%). A model based on a change of 10% of starting weight per unit of BCS above ideal (5/9) most closely estimated actual TW, but marked variability was seen. Therefore, although such calculations may provide a guide to final TW in obese dogs, they can either over- or under-estimate the appropriate end point of weight loss.     

Nitrogen balance in clinically normal dogs receiving parenteral nutrition solutions

OBJECTIVE: To determine nitrogen balance in clinically normal dogs receiving parenteral nutrition solutions. ANIMALS: 8 clinically normal female Beagles. PROCEDURE: Dogs were randomly assigned to receive 4 treatments in random order. Treatment A consisted of IV administration of nonlactated Ringer's solution. Treatments B, C, and D consisted of IV administration of isocaloric parenteral solutions containing 0, 1.36, and 2.04 g of amino acids/kg of body weight/d, respectively, for 7 consecutive days. Urine and feces were collected on days 5, 6, and 7 of each treatment period, and Kjeldahl analysis was used to determine nitrogen balance. RESULTS: Mean nitrogen balance was negative with treatments A and B but was not significantly different from 0 with treatments C and D. Dogs had the lowest nitrogen balance values and lost the most weight while receiving treatment A. Dogs were able to conserve protein and had higher nitrogen balance values when receiving treatment B, compared with treatment A. Dogs lost the least amount of weight while receiving treatment D. Regression analysis indicated that an IV amino acid intake of 2.32 g/kg/d (95% confidence interval, 2.00 to 2.81 g/kg/d), as supplied by the commercial product used in this study, would result in zero nitrogen balance in clinically normal dogs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that IV amino acid requirement of clinically normal dogs is approximately 2.3 g/kg/d.     

Efficacy of selamectin in the prevention of adult heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection in dogs in northern Italy

The efficacy of a novel avermectin, selamectin, was evaluated for the prevention of heartworm disease (adult Dirofilaria immitis infection) in 120 dogs (aged 9 months to 13 years at enrolment) presented as veterinary patients. The study was conducted at five veterinary practices in a heartworm hyperendemic region of northern Italy. Dogs were allocated randomly in a 2:1 ratio to treatment with either selamectin or ivermectin. Treatments were administered at monthly intervals for 6 months during the heartworm transmission season (May-November). Selamectin was applied topically in a single spot to the skin on each animal's back at the base of the neck in front of the scapulae as a unit dose that provided at least the minimum recommended dosage of 6mgkg(-1) (range, 6-12mgkg(-1)). Ivermectin (6microgkg(-1) of body weight) was administered orally at monthly intervals, in accordance with the manufacturer's product label recommendations. Study day 0 was defined individually for each dog as the day of first treatment administration. Efficacy was assessed on the basis of the absence of D. immitis microfilariae and adult heartworm (D. immitis) antigen in tests conducted on days 180 and 300. There were no adverse clinical signs arising due to treatment with selamectin and no drug-related mortalities. The prevention rate for D. immitis microfilariae and adult heartworm antigen was 100% for both selamectin and ivermectin. Thus, selamectin administered as a unit dose, providing at least the recommended minimum dosage of 6mgkg(-1), at monthly intervals during the heartworm transmission season was safe and 100% effective in the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs presented as veterinary patients.     

Comparison of plasma benzodiazepine concentrations following intranasal and intravenous administration of diazepam to dogs

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether plasma concentrations of benzodiazepines (BDZ) in dogs following intranasal (IN) administration of diazepam are comparable to concentrations following IV administration. ANIMALS: 6 (4 male, 2 female) healthy adult Greyhounds. PROCEDURE: Dogs were randomly assigned to 2 groups of 3 dogs in a crossover design. Diazepam (0.5 mg/kg of body weight) was administered intravenously to dogs in group 1 and intranasally to dogs in group 2. Blood was collected from the jugular vein of each dog into tubes containing lithium heparin before and 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 20, 30, 60, 120, 240, and 480 minutes following diazepam administration. After a 4-day washout period, dogs in group 1 received diazepam intranasally, dogs in group 2 received diazepam intravenously, and blood was again collected. Plasma concentration of BDZ was determined by use of a fluorescence polarization immunoassay. RESULTS: Mean (+/- SD) peak plasma concentration of BDZ following IV administration (1,316 +/- 216 microg/L) was greater than that following IN administration (448 +/- 41 microg/L). Time to peak concentration was < or = 3 minutes following IV administration and 4.5 +/- 1.5 minutes following IN administration. Mean bioavailability of BDZ following IN administration was 80 +/- 9%. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Diazepam is rapidly and efficiently absorbed following IN administration of the parenteral formulation. Plasma concentrations match or exceed the suggested therapeutic concentration (300 microg/L). Intranasal administration of diazepam may be useful for treatment of seizures in dogs by owners or when intravenous access is not readily available.     

Performance of a canine weight-loss program in clinical practice

Two canine studies evaluating the effectiveness of a specific computerized weight reduction program in two different clinical settings are summarized to give an overall assessment of an obesity management software program. The weight loss program utilizes a low calorie food formulation (dry, canned and treat) and software to suggest daily calorie intake for weight loss. The software utilizes current body weight and a desired weekly rate of weight loss to predict the dog's body weight in 30 days. The dietary product and software were used in a 3- and 6-month weight loss regime for 60 overweight adult dogs in two different clinical settings. On average, the dogs in this summary lost 0.75% per week regardless of more aggressive rates set by the nutritionist. Accuracy in predicting future weights by the software was dependent upon the desired rate of weight loss selected, the equation used to estimate maintenance energy requirement, and owner compliance. Over time, accuracy in predicting future canine weights improved. All healthy, overweight or obese dogs summarized in these two studies did lose weight and reached an optimal or at least lower body condition score with the aid of this software program and diet.     

En Bloc Resection of Primary Rib Tumors in 40 Dogs

Single or multiple rib resection was performed in 40 dogs for the treatment of primary osteosarcoma or chondrosarcoma. The resulting thoracic wall defect was closed with polypropylene (12 dogs), primary muscle flap (16 dogs), diaphragmatic advancement (10 dogs), or a combination (2 dogs). Few immediate (less than 2 weeks) postoperative complications were observed. Twenty dogs with osteosarcoma had a median survival time of 3.3 months (range, 0.5 to 23 months), with a 20% 6-month survival time. Metastases occurred in all the dogs. Fourteen dogs with chondrosarcoma followed up longer than 2 weeks had a median survival time of 10.7 months (range, 0.5 to 36 months) with a 64% 6-month survival time. Eight dogs developed metastases, five died from concurrent disease, and one dog is alive. Dogs with chondrosarcoma survived significantly longer than dogs with osteosarcoma. Survival time was not related to tumor size or number of ribs resected.     

Oral chromium picolinate and control of glycemia in insulin-treated diabetic dogs

Chromium is an essential dietary trace mineral involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Chromium is required for cellular uptake of glucose, and chromium deficiency causes insulin resistance. Chromium supplementation may improve insulin sensitivity and has been used as adjunct treatment of diabetes mellitus in humans. In this study, 13 dogs with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus were treated with insulin for 3 months, then with insulin and chromium picolinate for 3 months. Dogs weighing <15 kg (33 lb: n = 9) were administered 200 microg of chromium picolinate PO once daily for I month, then 200 microg of chromium picolinate twice daily for 2 months. Dogs weighing >15 kg (n = 4) received 200 microg of chromium picolinate once daily for 2 weeks, then 200 microg twice daily for 2 weeks, then 400 microg twice daily for 2 months. Type of insulin, frequency of insulin administration, and diet were kept constant, and insulin dosage was adjusted, as needed, to maintain optimal control of glycemia. Mean body weight, daily insulin dosage, daily caloric intake, 10-hour mean blood glucose concentration, blood glycated hemoglobin concentration, and serum fructosamine concentration were not markedly different when dogs were treated with insulin and chromium picolinate, compared with insulin alone. Adverse effects were not identified with chromium picolinate administration. Results of this study suggest that, at a dosage range of 20-60 microg/kg/d, chromium picolinate caused no beneficial or harmful effects in insulin-treated diabetic dogs.     

Prevalence of obese dogs in a population of dogs with cancer

OBJECTIVE: To determine the body condition score (BCS) distribution for dogs examined at a teaching hospital and examine whether the BCS distribution for dogs with cancer differed significantly from the distribution for dogs without cancer. SAMPLE POPULATION: 1,777 dogs with cancer and 12,893 dogs without cancer. PROCEDURES: A retrospective prevalence case-control study was conducted that used medical records from 1999 to 2004. Information was collected on BCS (9-point system), age, breed, sex, neuter status, diagnosis, and corticosteroid administration. Body condition score at the time of examination for cancer (dogs with cancer) or first chronologic visit (dogs without cancer) was recorded. Logistic regression was used to compare BCS prevalence distributions between groups. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of obese dogs (BCS >or= 7/9) was 14.8% (2,169/14,670), and the overall prevalence of overweight dogs (BCS >or= 6/9 to < 7/9) was 21.6% (3,174/14,670). There was a significant difference in the BCS distribution between dogs with and without cancer, with a slightly lower prevalence of being overweight and obese in dogs with cancer. The prevalence of obese and overweight dogs varied with specific cancer types when compared with the prevalence for dogs without cancer. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Differences in obesity prevalence among cancer types is suggestive of an incongruous effect of this variable on cancer expression or a differential effect of specific cancer types on weight status. Systematic use of BCSs will help elucidate the association between obesity and cancer development.     

Thoracoscopic lung lobectomy for treatment of lung tumors in dogs

OBJECTIVE: To report use of thoracoscopic lung lobectomy (TLL) for treatment of lung tumors (LT) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Nine dogs. METHODS: Dogs that had TLL for tumor removal were included. Using general anesthesia and 1-lung ventilation, TLL was performed using a 30-60 mm endoscopic gastrointestinal anastomosis stapler. If the visual field was obscured, lobe resection was completed via thoracotomy. RESULTS: Metastatic and primary LT were resected by thoracoscopic lobectomy in 9 dogs (6 male, 3 female; mean (+/-SD) weight, 29+/-7 kg; mean age, 10.7+/-1.9 years). Six dogs had a solitary mass and 3 dogs had 2 masses within a single lobe. The left caudal lobe was removed in 3 dogs. In 5 dogs, TLL was used alone whereas conversion to thoracotomy was required in 4 dogs because of poor visibility. There were 7 metastatic LT and 2 primary LT. Mean duration of thoracoscopic surgery was 108.8+/-30.3 minutes compared with 150.75+/-55.4 minutes in dogs requiring conversion to thoracotomy. Mean hospitalization was 3.1+/-1.3 days. CONCLUSION: Provided the visual field is not obscured, TLL can be performed effectively in dogs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Dogs with metastatic or primary LTs should be considered for TLL, particularly for small masses positioned away from the hilus in the left caudal lung lobe.