PSITTACINE SKULL RADIOGRAPHY

The psittacine skull is a complex anatomic structure, frequently traumatized but difficult to adequately image with standard radiographic procedures. Multiple views including a ventrodorsal, a lateral, and complementary oblique projections are necessary to fully evaluate potential skull fractures in the avian patient. Magnification radiography is a relatively easy procedure that aids the review of small osseous structures. Familiarity with psittacine skull anatomy greatly facilitates radiographic interpretation of cranial trauma.     

Radiographic findings in young llamas with forelimb valgus deformities: 28 cases (1980-1988)

Twenty-eight llamas with a mean age of 6.2 months had bilateral forelimb valgus deformities. The range of valgus deformity, as measured on a craniocaudal radiographic view, was 6 to 25 degrees, with a similar degree of deviation in each limb. Morphologic abnormalities in the distal portion of the radius and ulna were more prominent in the ulna and included metaphyseal and epiphyseal flaring, physeal ectasia, and metaphyseal sclerosis. Distal radial epiphyseal ectasia, and metaphyseal sclerosis. Distal radial epiphyseal wedging was believed to be secondary to the ulnar deformity. Radial bowing with lateral and caudal concavity and unequal cortical thickness was evident. Epiphyseal and metaphyseal flaring with physeal ectasia was noticed in the distal portion of the third and fourth metacarpal bones. Carpal bones were unaffected.     

Immune response of the llama (Lama glama) to tetanus toxoid vaccination

An ELISA was developed to measure serum concentrations of tetanus toxoid-specific immunoglobulins. The titers obtained with this assay were compatible with those obtained by the standard mouse toxin-neutralization test. Serum samples from 123 llamas were analyzed for ELISA titers to tetanus toxoid. Of the 82 vaccinated adults, 75 (91%) had titers greater than or equal to 1:50. The vaccination status and titers of weanlings and juveniles (3 to 12 months old) varied; of the 21 vaccinated, 17 (81%) had titers greater than or equal to 1:50 and 7 of 9 (78%) unvaccinated llamas had titers less than 1:50. The ELISA titers of unvaccinated llamas less than 8 weeks old (crias) were matched with the maternal titers. All crias with titers less than 1:50 had dams with titers greater than or equal to 1:50.     

Llama medicine. Obstetrics, neonatal care, and congenital conditions

Obstetrical care of the llama is very similar to other food animal and equine obstetrics. Understanding the few unique llama characteristics such as birthing from a standing position, no licking of the neonate by the mother, and the epidermal membrane covering the newborn, help give confidence when treating llamas. Dystocia is rare in the llama but when veterinary assistance is required, understanding the shape of the female pelvis aids in manipulations. Llama neonatal care is minimal for the healthy cria, but intensive care of a compromised cria is extremely demanding, and not always rewarding. The suggestions presented in this article are the result of 4 years' experience in providing care to many ill neonatal llamas. Several methods have been adapted from equine neonatal medicine used at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California. Basic physiological information concerning llama neonates, healthy and ill, is still being investigated. It is judicious to identify and discuss congenital problems in neonates prior to intensive support.     

Critical care of the rabbit.

Emergency and critical care principles are similar for all mammals. However, because they are stressed easily, rabbits require specialized handling techniques. Rabbits must be evaluated efficiently and stabilized quickly before moving into the definitive diagnostic phase of their care. A thorough clinical history, systematic physical examination, and multiple diagnostic tests are ideal, but when a rabbit is in critical condition, emergency stabilization and fluid resuscitation must take priority. Common emergency presentations include gastrointestinal disorders, such as prolonged anorexia, respiratory distress, neoplasia, neurologic symptoms, exposure to toxins, trauma, and urinary tract infections or obstruction.