A perspective on ovine footrot control

A method for the control of ovine footrot is described which utilises the most appropriate measures to suit the circumstances for individual properties. This approach was used to eradicate the disease from three Central Otago fine-wool properties wintering in excess of 35,000 sheep on widely differing classes of land. This programme incorporates the use of proven.techniques and suitable planning together with input from the rural veterinarian, who plays an important role in demonstration and advising on control measures.     

Levels of selenium in blood and tissues associated with some selenium deficiency diseases in New Zealand sheep

Whole bloods from weaned lambs with severe selenium responsive unthriftiness usually contain <5 ng Se/ml. Mildly or moderately affected lambs have blood levels of 5-10 ng/ml. Selenium responsive infertility in ewes appears to be associated with whole blood selenium levels below 10 ng/ml.     

Validation of liquid chromatographic method for assay of calcitriol and alfacalcidol in capsule formulations

The validation of a liquid chromatographic procedure suitable for the determination of calcitriol and alfacalcidol in their respective formulations labeled to contain at least 0.25 micrograms drug per unit is described. The capsule content is diluted and chromatographed in 15-20 min on silica columns (5 micron) with a mobile phase of hexane-tetrahydrofuran-methylene dichloride-isopropanol (72 + 12 + 12 + 4, v/v) with detection at 254 nm. The calibration curve is linear. Recoveries of "spikes" averaged 101% with a standard deviation of 2%. Precision was better than 1.5%.     

Pemphigus foliaceus of the footpads in three dogs

Severe hyperkeratinization and villous hypertrophy of the footpads were seen in 3 middle-aged dogs. Peeling, fissuring, swelling, and ulcerations were noted on the margins of severely affected pads. Pain was evident in palpation and ambulation. Lesions were compatible with the traditional diagnosis of "hard pad disease". Histopathologic findings were diagnostic for canine pemphigus foliaceus in all 3 dogs, and direct immunofluorescence in an intercellular pattern was seen in both dogs that were tested. All 3 dogs responded to immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids.     

Herniation of small intestine through the right lateral ligament of the bladder in a bull

A three year old Charolais bull was examined because of anorexia and depression of five days duration and progressive abdominal distention. Intestinal obstruction was diagnosed. A right flank celiotomy allowed diagnosis and correction of a herniated jejunoileal loop through the right lateral ligament of the bladder. An annular constriction located in mid-ileum was by-passed by ileocecal side-to-side anastomosis. The bull's appetite and fecal production returned to normal within 72 hours of surgery. Ten months following discharge the bull was reported to be well.