Animal Health Update Summer 2011 |
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Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (405) 744-6623 FAX (405) 744-8612 Teaching Hospital Small Animal (405) 744-7000 Large Animal (405) 744-7000 Administration (405) 744-7000 Outreach (405) 744-7672 FAX (405) 744-6265 In this Issue: Veterinary Clinical Sciences Welcome to Dean Jean Sander Scrapie: A regulatory perspective Equine Herpes Virus Type I Alternative therapeutic options for management of chronic or recurring urinary tract disease Anthelmiatics use in goats Service dogs and veterinary medicine OADDL Cytauxzoonosis Common herbicide/pesticide questions Equine piroplasmosis Trichomoniasis in Oklahoma Fall Conference 2011 Animal Health Update SUMMER 2011 The Newsletter of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Oklahoma State University Consultations and referrals can be made by contacting the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at (405) 744-7000 or The referring veterinarian toll free line at 1-866-654-7007. Veterinary Clinical Sciences Center for Veterinary Health Sciences A Big Cowboy Welcome to the new CVHS Dean, Dr. Jean Sander Dr Jean Sander will begin her appoint-ment as the OSU CVHS Dean on August 1, 2011. She was born close to Washington DC where her father was a food scientist with USDA. Dr. Sander actually grew up in the Chicago suburbs. Dr. Sander earned a BS degree in Biology from Elmhurst College, where her mother was a French Professor. Upon graduation from Elmhurst College, Dr. Sander left Chicago and pursued a music career as a lead singer in a pop music band. After her music career, Dr. Sander pursued her interest in veterinary medicine, working as a veterinary assistant in a companion animal prac-tice and on a dairy and swine farm to expand her animal experiences. Dr. Sander was a member of the charter class at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. She subsequently completed her post- DVM poultry education program at the University of Georgia (UGA) where she received her Master of Avian Medicine (MAM) degree at the Poul-try Diagnostic and Research Center (PDRC). Dr. Sander’s first faculty position was at UGA with the Cooperative Extension Service where she served as a poultry health specialist. After 2 years, she was transferred into a teaching and research appointment within the PDRC. She established a solid research program, provided health services through the diagnostic lab, and taught at the undergraduate, professional and graduate student level eventually being asked to lead the MAM program. Dr. Sander is currently serving as Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at The Ohio State 2 | Veterinary Health Sciences University College of Veterinary Medicine. She consid-ers this administrative experience to have been very rewarding and an excellent way to give back to the veterinary profession. Dr. Sander is looking forward to using her energy and skills to build and enhance the veterinary profession in Oklahoma as the Dean of CVHS. She invites other like minded professionals to join her in making this a sustainable career path for gifted and interested young people. Scrapie: A Regulatory Perspective Scrapie is a fatal, degenerative disease affecting the central nervous system of sheep and goats. It is among a number of diseases classified as transmissible spongi-form encephalopathies (TSE) all of which are thought to result from the accumulation of abnormal cellular “prion” proteins in the brain. Unlike bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), natural transmission of scrapie to other species has not been shown. Susceptible animals are typically infected as young lambs through contact with the placenta or birth fluids from infected ewes. Although rams are susceptible to the disease, they are not known to transmit the infection. However, ram genetics will contribute to the susceptibility of their offspring. Incubation period for this disease is gener-ally 2 to 5 years and is invariably fatal. Clinical signs include behavioral changes, neurological/gait abnor-malities, weakness, cachexia, and intense pruritus (the name “scrapie” was coined because infected animals will usually scrape their wool off from all the itch-ing and rubbing). Death occurs within several weeks to months after onset of clinical signs. Although the disease is more prevalent in black-faced sheep, all breeds are susceptible. Diagnosis vs. Genotyping Antemortem diagnosis of scrapie is from lymphoid tissue biopsy of the third eyelid or rectal mucosa, and postmortem diagnosis is from the obex of the brainstem (both by immunohistochemistry). This test deter-mines infection and is generally only used on scrapie suspects, exposed animals, or for slaughter surveil-lance. Genotyping is a DNA test that identifies the genes that control scrapie susceptibility or resistance. This test only measures vulnerability to scrapie and not infection. A few drops of whole blood collected on a FTA® card is the sample used by most approved laboratories. Though there are multiple genes express-ing different levels of susceptibility, codon 171 is the gene most focused on in the U.S. At this gene, “QQ” animals are highly susceptible to scrapie infection if exposed, “QR” are rarely susceptible if exposed, and “RR” are highly resistant. So in essence, a 171 QQ fetus exposed to a scrapie infected placenta will most likely result in infection of the newborn. Using this information, sheep producers can select breeding stock that will spawn resistant offspring. For example, if a RR ram is bred to a QQ ewe, a QR lamb will be produced every breeding. This is the reason RR rams are desirable, because they can be bred to susceptible ewes and still produce offspring that is “rarely suscep-tible”. So essentially, disease vulnerability can be well addressed by ram selection alone without having to focus on the breeding females. There are many traits in sheep and goats that must be evaluated when deter-mining breeding potential; genotype is another that can be added to that list. Accredited veterinarians who are working with producers to conduct genotyping are strongly urged to contact USDA Veterinary Services (VS) to obtain the forms necessary to ensure that the tests are official. Currently, however, The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and USDA VS are offering free genotyping services to eligible Oklahoma sheep flocks. These programs increase disease surveillance in Oklahoma while providing a service to producers. National Scrapie Eradication Program TSEs are the subject of increased attention and concern because of the discovery of BSE in cattle and the link between it and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans. In addition to the significant production losses experienced by infected flocks, the presence of scrapie in the U.S. has placed burdens and restrictions on the domestic and international markets for breeding stock, semen, embryos, meat, and bone meal. In all, scrapie is estimated to cost the U.S. sheep industry over $20 million annually. The combination of these factors led the USDA in 2001 to announce an accelerated program to eradicate scrapie in the nation’s sheep and goat flocks. The National Scrapie Eradication Program, coordinated by USDA VS, is a joint effort that includes participation by state governments, industry, veterinar-ians, and producers. This program is succeeding, and Animal Health Update | 3 the prevalence of scrapie has decreased by 80 percent since 2003. Veterinarians and producers can contrib-ute significantly to this program by: • Officially identifying sheep and goats per federal and state regulations. In Oklahoma, sheep and goats of any age must be officially identified before being moved for sale, exhibition, slaughter, or change of ownership. If unsure whether a particular sheep or goat needs to be identified, tag it. Official ear tags and applicator pliers are avail-able free of charge from USDA VS. • Select for genetically resistant breeding stock using genotyping. • Reporting suspect animals to the State Veterinar-ian’s Office (405-ALL-STAR) or USDA VS Office (405-751-1701). For more information regarding scrapie, free geno-typing, or identification requirements please contact Dr. Justin Roach Contributed by: Justin Roach, DVM, Staff Veterinarian Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry (405) 522-8396 or justin.roach@ag.ok.gov Equine Herpes Virus Type I and Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy This brief review article is in response to the recent incidence of horses being diagnosed with neuropathic EHV-1 infection that competed at the NCHA Western National Championships in Ogden, Utah (April 29 – May 8, 2011.) Horses from many states attended this show and could have possibly been exposed to this strain of EHV-1. Since then state veterinarians have been working diligently to prevent the further spread of the disease. Introduction Equine Herpes Virus Type I (EHV-1) is a DNA virus that affects horses and other mammals including but not limited to camelids. This virus is most commonly recognized as causing respiratory disease in horses less than 5 years of age; however it can also cause abortion in any aged pregnant mare. Neurologic disease is caused by certain strains of equine herpes virus type I can also occur. Transmission Most horses are exposed to EHV-1 by one year of age and they typically develop subclinical infection. The respiratory form of EHV-1 may result in mild clinical signs that go unnoticed or resolve without treatment. Once horses are exposed to EHV-1 they can become latently infected and carry the virus for life. These horses can be silent shedders of the virus providing a mechanism by which other horses can be exposed and subsequently infected. These silent carriers offer an explanation of how an outbreak can occur even in a closed herd. Transmission of EHV-1 occurs via direct contact with the virus due to ingestion or inhalation. This can occur by direct nose to nose contact with an infected horse, exposure to aerosolized viral particles, or direct contact with an infected fomite such as a bridle, feed, or water bucket. Nasal shedding can occur in clinically normal horses, as well as those showing illness and can continue several weeks. Clinical Signs Clinical signs of EHV-1 may vary with different strains. The respiratory form of the disease typically mani-fests with fever, serous nasal and ocular discharge, and coughing at 2-10 days following exposure. These same signs may precede the onset of neurologic signs. Secondary bacterial infections can follow the respira-tory form. Uncomplicated viral respiratory infection typically resolves in 1-2 weeks. Abortion due to EHV-1 most commonly occurs in the last trimester of preg-nancy. Neurologic signs of EHV-1 are variable and are reflective of a diffuse myeloencephalopathy includ-ing ataxia (oftentimes more severe in the hind limbs), urinary incontinence, decreased tail tone, and cranial nerve deficits. Stranguria may be present and could be mistaken initially as a mare coming into estrus. Horses may or may not be febrile. Neurologic signs are typi-cally symmetrical but can be asymmetrical. Neurologic signs typically appear 6-12 days after exposure. The neurologic signs may or may not be accompanied by respiratory manifestations of the disease. Neurologic signs typically stabilize in 2-3 days after the onset. Mildly affected horses typically experience full recov-ery, whereas those that become recumbent are much 4 | Veterinary Health Sciences less likely to recover and are most often euthanized. Differential Diagnoses Diseases that should be included as differentials for horses exhibiting neurologic signs consistent with EHV-1 include equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), western equine encephalitis (WEE), west Nile encephalitis (WNV), cervical stenotic myelopathy or cervical verte-bral instability, trauma, CNS abscess, rabies, and a variety of toxicities. Diagnosis Spinal paracentesis is frequently performed in any case of neurologic disease in the horse. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis in a horse with EHV-1 myeloencephalop-athy may reveal xanthochromia and increased protein concentration; however, the white blood cell count is typically normal. The most rapid method for obtaining a diagnosis of EHV-1 myeloencephalopathy is PCR on a nasal or nasopharyngeal swab with matched whole blood or buffy coat sample. It is important to note, however, that there is the potential for false positive results, as EHV-1 has been isolated from normal horses. PCR testing of nasal swabs and blood will typically test for both the DNA of EHV-1 and the marker asso-ciated with neuropathogenic strains of EHV-1 (ORF 30). Although non-neuropathogenic EHV-1 has been isolated from individual horses with neurologic disease, the majority of outbreaks are associated with neuro-pathogenic EHV-1. Virus isolation can be performed on buffy coat, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, or nasal swab. Treatment EHV-1 is a contagious disease, affected horses must be appropriately isolated from other horses and came-lids. People handling the infected horse must be aware that they can spread the infection to other animals. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment including nutritional and fluid support if indicated. Dependent on the severity of ataxia, housing in a padded or well bedded stall or even sling support with a hoist may be necessary. Controlling inflammation in the CNS is also an impor-tant aspect of treatment. Antiviral treatment options for neurologic EHV-1 have been investigated in horses. For information regarding our recommendations for treatment of EHV-1 please contact Drs. Todd Holbrook, Lyndi Gilliam, or Lara Maxwell directly at OSU Center Veterinary Health Sciences Veterinary Medical Teach-ing Hospital (405) 744-6656. Prevention The only sure way to prevent EHV-1 myeloencepha-lopathy is to prevent exposure. Efforts to prevent exposure should include isolation of any suspect horses and meticulous hygiene of personnel handling infected horses including protective clothing and thorough hand washing. Although EHV-1 is not likely to persist in the environment for long periods of time it is good practice to disinfect facilities and equipment exposed to infected horses. There are a variety of available disinfectants labeled for this purpose. While bleach is effective, it can be easily inactivated in the presence of organic matter so thorough cleaning prior to application is important. There are several vaccines that protect horses against the abortive and respiratory effects of EHV-1, however, their protection against the neurologic form is contro-versial and not well established. Neurologic EHV-1 is a reportable disease in Okla-homa and any suspicious cases should be reported to the state veterinarian (405) 522-6131. If you have questions regarding this article, please contact (405) 744-6656. Todd Holbrook, DVM, DACVIM Associate Professor Department Veterinary Clinical Sciences Dr. Lyndi Gilliam, DVM, DACVIM Assistant Professor Department Veterinary Clinical Sciences Alternative therapeutic options for management of chronic or recurring urinary tract disease in the dog and cat Although standard, mainstream, accepted therapy should always play a prominent role in treating patient problems, alternative therapeutic approaches can be valuable as adjunctive treatment options. Chronic or recurring urinary tract disease may benefit from Reprinting I f you would l ike to repr int an ar t icle please contact the author at the l isted number. Animal Health Update | 5 alternative treatment options as discussed below. Probiotics and Prebiotics Probiotics are live microorganisms, which when admin-istered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Prebiotics are defined as non-living, nondigest-ible food ingredients such as oligosaccharides which beneficially affect the host by selectively stimulating the growth of and/or activating the metabolism of one or a limited number of health promoting bacteria in the intestinal tract. When a probiotic is combined with a prebiotic for the purpose of producing a synergistic effect, the mixture is referred to as a synbiotic. Probiot-ics with or without prebiotics appear to have the most potential for use in dogs and cats as nutritional aids in the treatment and prevention of diarrhea. However, other organ systems besides the gastrointestinal tract may also benefit from the use of such supplements. As a general rule, in order to be effective probiotics must be stable in storage and provide large numbers of micro-organisms after surviving gastric transit. In addition, the microorganisms involved must be nonpathogenic, nontoxic, non-resistant to antibiotics, and incapable of being absorbed into the bloodstream following consumption. Probiotics are frequently administered with food. The microorganisms administered are only transient residents of the GI tract. Consequently, when probiotics are indicated, they must be administered on a continuing basis to achieve the desired effect. If given concurrently with an antibiotic, the probiotic should be administered at a different time of day than the antibiotic. One synbiotic product (Azodyl®, Vetoquinol) has been marketed as a preparation that will lower the concentration of nitrogenous waste products (especially, BUN and creatinine) in the blood of canine and feline patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) through enteric metabolism of uremic solutes by the probiotic organisms. This action, according to the marketing company, helps prevent further kidney damage and minimizes the clinical and biochemical consequences of declining renal function. Azodyl® is administered to patients as an enteric-coated capsule which contains Enterococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium longum as probiotic organisms and oligosaccharides as prebiotic agents. Although anecdotal and/or uncontrolled reports exist of reduc-tion in azotemia in dogs and cats, the studies on which the company’s claims are primarily based are nephrec-tomized rat and minipig models. A clinical study of cats with a placebo-control group has been conducted, but the results, as-of-yet, have not been published. An additional concern raised about efficacy of Azodyl® lies in the fact that this product can be difficult to administer to cats in its capsule form. Consequently, the contents of the capsule are frequently sprinkled on the feline patient’s food for administration, raising the question of whether the probiotic agent will be sufficiently active to be effective following GI transit. As of this writing, although Azodyl® would not be considered harmful to canine and feline patients with CKD, its efficacy in regard to the manufacturer’s claims is questionable. It has also been suggested that probiotics may aid in the prevention of oxalate urolith formation. Studies in humans and rats have shown a decrease in urine oxalate concentration with coloniza-tion of the intestinal tract with Oxalobacter formigenes, a microorganism that facilitates degradation of oxalate in the gut and leads to decreased excretion of oxalate in the urine. The potential for use of this organism as a means of reducing oxalate urolith formation in dogs and cats has not been adequately investigated. Further-more, the microbe which most consistently degrades oxalate in the gut, Oxalobacter formigenes, is not contained in the common probiotic preparations used in the dog and cat. Rhubarb Recently the product Rubenal® by Vetoquinol has been marketed for use in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease in dogs and cats. The product contains a medicinal rhubarb, Rheum officinale, which report-edly acts as an antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory agent and, in various lab animal species, has decreased the severity of experimental glomerulosclerosis and related proteinuria. These actions have the potential to slow down the progression of kidney disease and result in a better quality of life. Kansas State University currently has a study under way which is evaluating the effects of 6 | Veterinary Health Sciences Rubenal® on feline patients with chronic renal disease (CRD). Preliminary results have given some support to the idea that the active ingredient does decrease proteinuria and delay progression of CRD. The pill administered is large and may be difficult to give to some cats. Few side effects have been observed but include vomiting and lethargy. Administering Rube-nal ® to patients with a history of calcium oxalate urolithiasis should be avoided due to the potential for increased oxalate excretion in the urine with rhubarb consumption. Cranberry Supplement Cranberry supplement may help prevent recurring bacterial urinary tract infection, especially infection caused by E. coli. It probably does not acidify the urine sufficiently to be effective in that way, but is thought to help destroy the biofilm that helps protect certain bacteria and allow them to attach to the uroepithelium. It is not recommended for use in patients suffering from or having a history of oxalate uroliths since cranberry supplements may contribute to the excretion of oxalate and favor oxalate formation because of its acidifying qualities. It is best used concurrently with appropriate antibiotic therapy and/or immediately after antibiotic therapy has eradicated infection. Cranberry juice can be used in both dogs and cats, but it is bitter tasting and it is difficult to get a pet to consume enough to accomplish the desired effect. UroMAXX™ by Animal Nutritional Products has cranberry extract which is combined with other nutriceuticals for urinary tract health and is an easy formulation for administer-ing one to two times daily (I would recommend twice daily dosing). Over the-counter cranberry extract can be purchased as a health supplement. Dosing is vari-able, but is generally recommended at approximately 10 – 20 mg/kg every 12 hours mixed with food. Methenamine For prevention of recurring urinary tract infection (UTI), especially of E. coli, consider the use of a urinary antiseptic once the UTI is appropriately treated with antibiotics and under control (methenamine hippu-rate – 500 mg/dog PO q12 hrs or 250 mg/cat PO q12 hrs). Methenamine will not be as effective with urease-producing organisms like some strains of Staph, Proteus, Enterobacter, and Pseudomonas which increase urine pH; consequently, a urinary acidifier may be required to be given concurrently to increase efficacy. The compound methenamine hippurate has hippuric acid added to help acidify the urine to aid in the hydrolysis of methenamine to formaldehyde and ammonia. A urine pH of < 5.5 is optimum for breakdown of methenamine. Both formaldehyde and hippuric acid have nonspecific antibacterial activity against various gram positive and gram negative organisms. Methenamine may also have antimicrobial activity against fungal organisms. It is inadvisable to administer methenamine to patients that are pregnant, lactating, dehydrated, or experi-encing renal or hepatic insufficiency. Adverse effects resulting from methenamine are primarily related to nausea, anorexia and vomiting although dysuria may be produced occasionally in response to high urine formaldehyde concentrations. Omega-Three Fatty Acids Fatty acid supplements have become popular as thera-peutic and preventative agents over the last several years for a variety of disorders, including renal disease, cancer, osteoarthritis, hypertriglyceridemia/hypercholester-olemia, dermatitis, urogenital infections, and cardiac disease. Although many of the claims of efficacy are unproven, the potential for use as anti-inflammatory agents seems to be supported both in theory and in the clinical setting. The fatty acid supplements most commonly used are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega – 3 fatty acid supplements include eicosapen-tanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are derived from oils of fish such as salmon, trout and menhaden and from flaxseed. Omega-6 fatty acid supplements include linoleic acid (LA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which are derived from oils of seeds such as evening primrose, black currant, and borage. Fatty acid anti-inflammatory effect comes about through the mechanism of cell injury and the subse-quent inflammatory cascade that ultimately involves the lipooxygenase and cyclooxygenase enzyme pathways. When cell membranes are injured, phospholipids in the membranes are broken down enzymatically, produc-ing the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and the omega-6 fatty acid, arachidonic acid. Metabolism of eicosapentaenoic acid results in the formation of products called eicosanoids that are non-inflammatory, Reprinting I f you would l ike to repr int an ar t icle please contact the author at the l isted number. Animal Health Update | 7 non-immunosuppressive, and anticoagulatory (inhibit platelet aggregation and clotting). Conversely, metabo-lism of arachidonic acid produces eicosanoids that are primarily pro-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and pro-coagulatory (cause platelet aggregation and clot-ting). An exception to the production of inflammatory eicosanoids from arachidonic acid is the formation of the anti-inflammatory agent prostaglandin E1. In addition, the omega-6 fatty acid di-homo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) produces eicosanoids that are less inflammatory than those produced from arachi-donic acid. Consequently, dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids and the omega – 6 fatty acid DGLA would be expected to result in increased production of non-inflammatory eicosanoids and decrease in inflam-mation from cell injury. Since fish oils can have an objectionable odor and occa-sionally cause GI upset, flaxseed oil is sometimes used as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil does contain some omega-6 fatty acids, but is also a source of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted to EPA and DHA. However, dogs and cats are not thought to have good ability to convert ALA to more actively non-inflammatory components, limiting its usefulness as a dietary source of beneficial omega-3 fatty acid. As stated previously, supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids increases the production of non-inflammatory eicosanoids, includ-ing prostaglandins, which can be beneficial in reducing inflammation in renal disease as well as improving blood flow to the kidney through vasodilation. In addition, such supplementation can decrease the production of inflammatory eicosanoids. Published study data related to chronic renal disease has been most supportive of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in dogs although some data exists suggesting potential benefits in chronic renal failure cats fed diets supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. Studies with chronic renal failure dogs have indicated that those dogs receiving omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had improved renal function and fewer histopathologic lesions in the kidneys. Combin-ing antioxidants with omega-3 fatty acids may have a synergistic effect in benefiting pets affected by chronic renal disease. Although a wide range of doses (50 – 300 mg/kg/day) can be found for omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, (especially, EPA and DHA) doses around 100 mg/kg/ day have been suggested for canine and feline patients with chronic renal disease. Many prescription diets for pets have omega-3 fatty acids incorporated into the formulation, including canine and feline renal diets. Omega-6 fatty acids may be beneficial in combination with omega-3 fatty acids, but an ideal ratio for supple-ments has not been determined. Fish oil supplements are usually in the form of capsules or liquids. Fish oils can oxidize and become rancid, prompting manufac-turers to add Vitamin E or to extract oxygen from fish oil capsules in order to prevent rancidity. At higher doses, fish oils may decrease platelet aggregation and prolong bleeding time, increase fibrinolysis, and may reduce von Willebrand factor. Gastrointestinal signs such as nausea, gas formation, and diarrhea may be associated with fish oil supplementation. Administer-ing these supplements with food and increasing doses gradually may help limit or prevent gastrointestinal side effects. Mary Bowles, DVM, DACVIM Associate Professor, Veterinary Clinical Sciences (405) 744-7000 Service Dogs and Veterinary Medicine Is your practice ready to meet the needs of a client with a service dog? The popularity of these highly trained dogs working to assist those with physical disabilities, seizures, diabetes, hearing or visual impairments, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is growing by leaps and bounds. This growth is fueled in part by the number of veterans returning home from war. Service dogs are typically pure bred Labrador Retriev-ers and Golden Retrievers though some organizations will work with rescued dogs. Typically the animal is in the training program from the age of eight weeks (or younger if the organization has a breeding program) to 2 years of age. While in training these valuable dogs receive wonderful health care as a result of the gener-osity of individual donors and veterinarians willing to discount their services. Once a service dog has completed 8 | Veterinary Health Sciences training and is ready for placement they obtain health clearances for both hips and elbows. Once a service dog is placed, the dog’s new partner is responsible for health care. And the general practice veterinarian will need to not only keep track of and provide annual vaccinations, heartworm test, and fecal check and prevention products but also keep in mind the special needs of the dog and the client. For example, a service dog must be clean and disease free, not only to prevent their partner from getting any infections but also to maintain their public access as allowed by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Other considerations to keep in mind relate to the disabled individual – a wheelchair bound client, when faced with a dog that starts having diarrhea, has additional challenges beyond those of the general population and a client with mobility problems usually relies heavily on a service dog to maintain independence so the indi-vidual must make additional plans if their service dog has to spend a night or two at the vet clinic. A veterinarian with a service dog for a client will soon realize that the abilities the dog has gained though training will present some interesting situations. Dogs that are trained to open refrigerator or kitchen cabinet doors and drawers and fetch something from that area can use his skills to get into the type of trouble not usually seen with the family pet. And service dogs are usually rewarded for performing tasks with small treats – a partner with a lot of love for his service dog may over treat so keep an eye out for problems with obesity. Being the health care provider for a service dog is deeply rewarding. The experience will be fun, challenging, and extremely interesting with endless opportunities for creativity. And if there is a service dog organization in your area get involved! These organizations always need volunteers. Barbara Miller, DVM, Director-Veterinary Care Susan Hartman, Executive Director Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma (918) 270-4226 or www.therapetics.org Testing efficacy of Anthelmintic combinations in goats done by LJ Dawson and S Hart at the American Institute of Goat Research at Langston University. Results published in the Journal of Animal Science 2010. Gastrointestinal nematodes have developed a high level of resistance to most commercially available anthelmintics mitigating the effectiveness of chemo-therapy for their control. One potential solution is to use combinations of anthelmintics to control gastroin-testinal nematodes. The purpose of this study was to compare the relative efficacy of anthelmintic combina-tions as compared to one anthelmintic alone. Boer x Spanish does, over one year of age, were used in this study. The study was done in late June on a group of animals which were in late pregnancy or had recently kidded. Haemonchus contortus would be expected to be the dominant gastrointestinal nematode at this time of the year. Does were given their treatments, fecal samples taken and then fecal samples were taken 7 days later. Drugs used included albendazole (20 mg/ kg bwt), levamisole (12 mg/kg bwt) or moxidectin (0.5 mg/kg bwt) and two – or three – way combina-tions at the same dose, administered simultaneously. All these treatments were given orally. Treatments were 1) albendazole; 2) levamisole; 3) moxidectin; 4) albendazole-levamisole combination; 5) albendazole-moxidectin combination; 6) levamisole-moxidectin combination; 7) albendazole-levamisole-moxidectin combination; 8) copper oxide wire capsulres (2.0 g) and 9) control. Each treatment was administered to 12 animals at random. Fecal egg counts were deter-mined by a modificed McMaster procedure and fecal egg count reduction (FECR) calculated. All animals with an initial fecal egg count of less than 250 eggs per gram (EPG) were deleted from the data with an aver-age of 8.6 animals per treatment. Data were analyzed by the SAS procedure. Comparisons of treatment were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test. The median initial fecal egg count was 2,550 EPG. Median FECR for treatments was 76, 39, 74, 85, 98, 98, 99, 28, and 14% for treatment 1, 2,3,4,5,6,7,8, and 9 respectively. Treatments 2 and 8 were not significantly different from control (p > 0.10). Significant anthel-mintic resistance was present since FECR for each anthelmintic alone was less than 95%. Moxidectin Reprinting I f you would l ike to repr int an ar t icle please contact the author at the l isted number. Animal Health Update | 9 and albendazole were significantly more effective than levamisole (p < 0.06). Levamisole combinations with moxidectin were more effective than levamisole alone (p < 0.01). All anthelmintic combinations except for the albendazole and levamisole combination were highly effective. Anthelmintic combinations provide increased efficacy over one anthelmintic and may be a useful tool where there is significant anthelmintic resistance. Goats Gastrointestinal Parasite Control Basics Internal Parasites are a major problem in small rumi-nants. There are variety issues that can predispose small ruminants to internal parasites including: stock-ing rates, grazing instead of browsing, poor nutrition including trace mineral deficiency; indiscriminate use of anthelmintics; not using an effective dose of the anthel-mintic; injectable route instead of oral administration of anthelmintic, selecting animals with anthelmintic resistance. All of these issues can contribute to the development of parasite resistance of anthelmintics on the market today. FAMACHA is not a parasite control program but is a tool in a parasite control program. Haemonchus contortus (barber pole worm) is a common parasite of small ruminants that causes anemia. You can measure the extent or degree of anemia with the FAMACHA card by comparing the color on the inside of the eyelid of the conjunctiva to the color on the card. Treat all animals with a FAMACHA score of 4 or 5 with an effective anthelmintic and check again two weeks later (other conditions can cause anemia like abomasal ulcer, coccidiosis, lice and liver flukes etc.) If greater than 10% of the animals in a herd have FAMACHA scores of 4 or 5 then consider treating animals that score 3, especially does and ewes around lambing/kidding or nursing; young animals and thin poorly conditioned animals. In addition to the FAMACHA eye scores, a parasite management program should include monitor-ing of fecal egg counts periodically. Treat new animals to a farm with at least two classes of anthelmin-tics during quarantine period, and check a week later to make sure their feces are free of eggs. This procedure will minimize importing resistant intestinal parasites. There are 4 classes of anthelmintics used in goats to control parasites and few are approved for use in goats. Therefore a producer should have a Valid Client Patient Relationship or VCPR with a veterinarian before they can legally use these products. Approved anthelmintics in goats are Benzimidiazoles and Tetrahydropyrmidines. Benzimiazoles disrupt the formation of intestinal microtubules of the parasites, thus preventing uptake of glucose. Benzimidazoles available are: Albenda-zole (Valbazen); Fenbendazole (Panacur, Safeguard); Oxfendzole (Synanthic); Thiabendazole (Thiabenda-zole); Mebendazole (Telmin). Due to the mechanism of action of benizimadazoles, they can kill roundworms, lungworms and tapeworms. Liver flukes are susceptible to Albendazole. Because of the long history of use in small ruminants, there is greater level of resistance to Benizimidazoles. Macrocyclic lactones stimulate the release of Gamma Amino Benzoic Acid (GABA), which inhibits neuro-transmission and paralyze the parasite, which leads to death of the parasite by starvation. Macrocyclic lactones available are: Ivermectic – Ivomec (injectable or drench); Moxidectin – Cydectin (pour-on and inject-able); Doramectin – Dectomax (injectable or pour-on); Eprinomectin – Epirinex (pour-on). Macrocyclic lactones are not effective against liver flukes and tapeworm. Imidazothiazoles and Tetrahydro pyrimidines are cell depolarizers or nicotinic agonists. They cause constric-tion of the muscles, resulting in paralysis of the parasite. The parasites are expelled alive. This class is effective against roundworms. Imidazothiazoles available are Levamisole and Tramisole. Tetrahydropyrimidines available are Morantel or Rumatel and Pyrantel. Guidelines – Use of Anthelmintics in Goats: • Use 1.5 times the sheep dose, because goats have faster rate of passage and larger livers to metabo-lize the drugs. Levamisole is used at 12 mg/kg, and Cydectin is used orally at 0.5 mg/kg (pour-on dose orally). • Administer anthelmintics orally (back behind tongue) 10 | Veterinary Health Sciences Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab • Do not return the animal to the same pasture, rather a new uncontaminated pasture 24 after treatment • Observe withdrawal period before selling goat • Pour-on anthelmintic products are ineffective & anthelmintics should not be injected • Hold goats off feed 12 hours and treat with anthel-mintic and keep off feed another 12 or more hours • Treat with anthelmintic twice, 12 to 24 h apart especially benizimadozoles 20 mg/kg. • Administration of anthelmintics in blocks, water or feed not recommended because this often results in animals not getting the correct dose and enhances anthelmintic resistance. Management Steps to Help Minimize Anthelmintic Resistance: • Animal selection (cull goats that consistently have high fecal egg counts) • Pasture rotation • Co-species grazing • Low stocking rates, etc • Only treat goats that need to be treated as deter-mined by FAMACHA eye color score • Good nutrition – sufficient protein, energy, vita-mins and minerals • Treating and moving to clean pen or pasture • Always administer an anthelmintic at appropriate dose (see above) • Avoid treating when pasture has few larva – late summer or early fall. • An effective anthelmintics will reduce fecal egg counts by 95% at 7-14 days after giving the Anthelmintics Lionel Dawson, DVM, DACT Associate Professor, Veterinary Clinical Sciences – OSU Associate Professor, Research and Extension – Langton University Cytauxzoonosis With the Oklahoma rains last month and increased humidity the numbers of ticks are increasing and consequently OADDL started seeing our first cases of Cytauxzoonosis in cats for 2011. The onset of clinical signs and ensuing rapid death often leads the owner of the cat to suspect a poisoning. Clinically the cat is presented with anorexia, pyrexia, dehydration, pallor, icterus and maybe dark urine and dyspnea. On post-mortem examination there is typically yellow fluid in the thorax and abdomen, anemia, petechia, pulmonary edema and splenomeglia. Common Herbicide/Pesticide Questions • What is the withdrawal time of MSMA? It contains arsenic and will be on the plant until a good hard rain washes it off. • Can I spray Round-up around my kennel? Yes, it is relatively safe, however there may always be dogs that are hypersensitive to it. May emit toxic fumes if burned. There is a 14-56 day grazing restriction. • Can horses graze pastures sprayed with 2-4-D? Yes, there is no withdrawal time for horses. • Will herbicide mist kill the fish in my water garden? Yes, fish are extremely sensitive to all chemicals that can get in the water. • Can I spray DEET on my animals? DEET is a cholinesterase inhibitor and is synergistic with other pesticides. Numerous cases of neurotoxic-ity have been reported in cats and dogs associated with the topical use of a product containing DEET and the pyrethroid fenvalerate. Problems have also been reported in horses wiped with DEET wipes. There is a free 24-hour Oklahoma Poison Control Hotline 1-800-222-1222 Sandra Morgan, DVM Veterinary Toxicologist Animal Health Update | 11 Equine Piroplasmosis Since the identification of an index ranch in South Texas in the fall of 2009 and subsequent identification of infected horses associated with horse racing; many states have instituted screening for Babesia caballi and Babesia (Theileria) equi, the parasites responsible for Equine Piroplasmosis, EP. The Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission began requiring in July 2010 that all horses entering tracks under their jurisdication would require a negative test for EP. Because of this OADDL was granted approval by the USDA to perform EP testing. During the first year of increased surveillance, 2010, the USDA confirmed over 400 positive horses in approximately 10 states; both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing animals. Annual testing for Piro-plasmosis remains a requirement at all three Oklahoma Pari-mutuel Race Tracks for 2011. In addition, some other equine events have instituted mandatory test-ing; most notably will be a negative test result within six months for all horses entered in the four AQHA World Shows in the summer/fall of 2011. OADDL has performed 5793 Piroplasmosis tests since July of last year and will continue to provide twice weekly test-ing through the summer of 2011. Test submission to OADDL requires the serum to be accompanied by a fully completed, Oklahoma State Department of Agri-culture, Food and Forestry Piroplasmosis Test Chart. These forms are available through the State Veteri-narians Office at 405/522-6142. Please take time to familiarize yourself with the requirements and test schedule availability for Piroplasmosis at the OADDL website, http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index, then click academics, then diagnostic laboratory. Grant B. Rezabek MPH, DVM Pathologist, OADDL Trichomoniasis in Oklahoma 1/1/2011 – 6/7/2011 Half of the positive bulls testing for Tritrichomonas fetus has really increased in the last couple of years as surrounding states have passed requirements that breeding age bulls entering their state have a negative Tritrichomonas fetus test certificate. In January, 2011, Oklahoma law required that breeding age bulls being sold or entering Oklahoma must have a negative test certificate for T. fetus. In 2010 there were approximately 2,800 Oklahoma bulls tested for T. fetus. 75 of the bulls were positive for a 2.7% positive rate. So far in 2011 approximately 4,000 Oklahoma bulls have been tested. 93 of the bulls have been positive for a 2.3 % positive rate. Half of the positive bulls in Oklahoma this year have come from about 10 counties in the northeastern corner of the state. This number does not necessarily mean an increased incidence in this area since I have not calculated the number of bulls tested in each county. Also as veterinarians in northeastern Oklahoma have found more of the disease, more clients have decided they want to test for trichomonas even though they may not be shipping a bull for sale which subsequently results in finding more positive bulls. We are also find-ing a lot of the disease in northwestern Arkansas and that has resulted in the Arkansas Livestock and Poul-try Commission enacting emergency rules similar to Oklahoma. I appreciate the work that veterinarians, extension personnel, livestock market owners, cattlemen’s groups, and many others have done in educating cattle producers about this disease. I appreciate the producers them-selves being cooperative and ethical in dealing with their infected bulls and possibly infected cows by not selling them in ways that could transmit the disease to another’s herd. Call if I can answer any questions or be of assistance. Rod Hall, DVM (405) 522-6126 or rod.hall@ag.ok.gov Guest Speakers & Topics Small Animal Dr. Steven Marks • Update on cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation • Fluid therapy for the trauma patient • Diagnosis and management of respi-ratory trauma • Practical critical care techniques Dr. Tiffany Tapp • Pi t fal ls to avoid in veter inar y dermatology • Dermatology dilemma: resistant bacte-rial skin infections • Dermatology dilemma: resistant ear infections • New(er) drugs and treatments in veteri-nary dermatology Dr. Chelsea Makloski • Small animal dystocia • Pyometra management Large Animal Dr. Daniel Thomson • Improving your client’s bottom line through animal health & well-being • Star ting stocker calves: health management • Starting stocker calves: nutrition management Dr. Tom Hairgrove • Cow/Calf herd health • Leptospirosis • Vector borne disease Equine Dr. Peter Morresey • What’s new in equine reproduction and equine medicine? • Managing the high risk mare • The foal: the first 30 days • The foal: the first 6 months Dr. Betsy Vaughan • Ultrasound non acute abdomen: Chronic colic, fever of unknown origin and weight loss • The value of Pastern ultrasound • Ultrasound-guided procedures: tips, tools and techniques • Equine ultrasound wet lab — hands on instruction will include ultrasound examination of the pastern and meta-tarsal regions and ultrasound-guided techniques (cadaver limbs). Keynote Speaker — Dr. Guy Palmer • Global Animal Health Cowboy Roundup — Thursday, October 6 – 6:30 pm — Student Union Alumni Class reunions — 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Distinguished Alumni Lunch Friday, October 7 – 11:30 am. Early August — watch your mailbox for the Fall Conference Brochure; check our website: http://www.cvhs.okstate. edu/conference Friday and Saturday, Oct. 6 & 7, 2011 Wes Watkins Conference Center Thank you to our Cowboy Sponsors – Bayer Animal Health, Merial, Pfizer, Boeh-ringer Ingelheim Oklahoma State University in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. Title IX of the Education Amendments and Oklahoma State University policy prohibit discrimination in the provision of services of benefits offered by the University based on gender. Any person (student, faculty or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based upon gender may discuss their concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with the OSU Title IX Coordinator, Director of Affirmative Action, 408 Whitehurst, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, 405-744-5371 or 405-744-5576 (fax). This publication, Job# 3658 issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the Department Head, Animal Sciences, was printed by Career Tech at a cost of $1,220.00 2.5M/Feb/11. Plan to join us for Fall Conference for Veterinarians
Object Description
Okla State Agency |
Oklahoma State University |
Okla Agency Code | '010' |
Title | Animal health update |
Alternative title | OSU animal health update |
Authors |
Oklahoma State University. College of Veterinary Medicine. Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. |
Publisher | Oklahoma State University, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences |
Publication Date | 2001; 2002; 2003; 2004; 2005; 2006; 2007; 2008; 2009; 2010; 2011 |
Publication type | Newsletter |
Serial holdings | Electronic holdings begin with 2001 |
Subject |
Veterinary medicine--Oklahoma--Periodicals. Oklahoma State University. College of Veterinary Medicine--Periodicals. Olahoma Animal Diagnostic Laboratory--Periodicals. |
Notes | The Newsletter of the Center for Veterinary health Sciences |
OkDocs Class# | Z2280.6 A598h |
Digital Format | PDF, Adobe Reader required |
ODL electronic copy | Downloaded from agency website: http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/ |
Rights and Permissions | This Oklahoma state government publication is provided for educational purposes under U.S. copyright law. Other usage requires permission of copyright holders. |
Language | English |
Date created | 2012-09-20 |
Date modified | 2012-09-20 |
OCLC number | 65471031 |
Description
Title | Animal Health Update Summer 2011 |
OkDocs Class# | Z2280.6 A598h Summer 2011 |
Digital Format | PDF Adobe Reader Required |
ODL electronic copy | Downloaded from Agency Website: http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/images/pdf/animal-health/animal_health_update_2011_fall.pdf |
Rights and Permissions | This Oklahoma state government publication is provided for educational purposes under U.S. copyright law. Other usage requires permission of copyright holders. |
Language | English |
Full text | Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (405) 744-6623 FAX (405) 744-8612 Teaching Hospital Small Animal (405) 744-7000 Large Animal (405) 744-7000 Administration (405) 744-7000 Outreach (405) 744-7672 FAX (405) 744-6265 In this Issue: Veterinary Clinical Sciences Welcome to Dean Jean Sander Scrapie: A regulatory perspective Equine Herpes Virus Type I Alternative therapeutic options for management of chronic or recurring urinary tract disease Anthelmiatics use in goats Service dogs and veterinary medicine OADDL Cytauxzoonosis Common herbicide/pesticide questions Equine piroplasmosis Trichomoniasis in Oklahoma Fall Conference 2011 Animal Health Update SUMMER 2011 The Newsletter of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Oklahoma State University Consultations and referrals can be made by contacting the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at (405) 744-7000 or The referring veterinarian toll free line at 1-866-654-7007. Veterinary Clinical Sciences Center for Veterinary Health Sciences A Big Cowboy Welcome to the new CVHS Dean, Dr. Jean Sander Dr Jean Sander will begin her appoint-ment as the OSU CVHS Dean on August 1, 2011. She was born close to Washington DC where her father was a food scientist with USDA. Dr. Sander actually grew up in the Chicago suburbs. Dr. Sander earned a BS degree in Biology from Elmhurst College, where her mother was a French Professor. Upon graduation from Elmhurst College, Dr. Sander left Chicago and pursued a music career as a lead singer in a pop music band. After her music career, Dr. Sander pursued her interest in veterinary medicine, working as a veterinary assistant in a companion animal prac-tice and on a dairy and swine farm to expand her animal experiences. Dr. Sander was a member of the charter class at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. She subsequently completed her post- DVM poultry education program at the University of Georgia (UGA) where she received her Master of Avian Medicine (MAM) degree at the Poul-try Diagnostic and Research Center (PDRC). Dr. Sander’s first faculty position was at UGA with the Cooperative Extension Service where she served as a poultry health specialist. After 2 years, she was transferred into a teaching and research appointment within the PDRC. She established a solid research program, provided health services through the diagnostic lab, and taught at the undergraduate, professional and graduate student level eventually being asked to lead the MAM program. Dr. Sander is currently serving as Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at The Ohio State 2 | Veterinary Health Sciences University College of Veterinary Medicine. She consid-ers this administrative experience to have been very rewarding and an excellent way to give back to the veterinary profession. Dr. Sander is looking forward to using her energy and skills to build and enhance the veterinary profession in Oklahoma as the Dean of CVHS. She invites other like minded professionals to join her in making this a sustainable career path for gifted and interested young people. Scrapie: A Regulatory Perspective Scrapie is a fatal, degenerative disease affecting the central nervous system of sheep and goats. It is among a number of diseases classified as transmissible spongi-form encephalopathies (TSE) all of which are thought to result from the accumulation of abnormal cellular “prion” proteins in the brain. Unlike bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), natural transmission of scrapie to other species has not been shown. Susceptible animals are typically infected as young lambs through contact with the placenta or birth fluids from infected ewes. Although rams are susceptible to the disease, they are not known to transmit the infection. However, ram genetics will contribute to the susceptibility of their offspring. Incubation period for this disease is gener-ally 2 to 5 years and is invariably fatal. Clinical signs include behavioral changes, neurological/gait abnor-malities, weakness, cachexia, and intense pruritus (the name “scrapie” was coined because infected animals will usually scrape their wool off from all the itch-ing and rubbing). Death occurs within several weeks to months after onset of clinical signs. Although the disease is more prevalent in black-faced sheep, all breeds are susceptible. Diagnosis vs. Genotyping Antemortem diagnosis of scrapie is from lymphoid tissue biopsy of the third eyelid or rectal mucosa, and postmortem diagnosis is from the obex of the brainstem (both by immunohistochemistry). This test deter-mines infection and is generally only used on scrapie suspects, exposed animals, or for slaughter surveil-lance. Genotyping is a DNA test that identifies the genes that control scrapie susceptibility or resistance. This test only measures vulnerability to scrapie and not infection. A few drops of whole blood collected on a FTA® card is the sample used by most approved laboratories. Though there are multiple genes express-ing different levels of susceptibility, codon 171 is the gene most focused on in the U.S. At this gene, “QQ” animals are highly susceptible to scrapie infection if exposed, “QR” are rarely susceptible if exposed, and “RR” are highly resistant. So in essence, a 171 QQ fetus exposed to a scrapie infected placenta will most likely result in infection of the newborn. Using this information, sheep producers can select breeding stock that will spawn resistant offspring. For example, if a RR ram is bred to a QQ ewe, a QR lamb will be produced every breeding. This is the reason RR rams are desirable, because they can be bred to susceptible ewes and still produce offspring that is “rarely suscep-tible”. So essentially, disease vulnerability can be well addressed by ram selection alone without having to focus on the breeding females. There are many traits in sheep and goats that must be evaluated when deter-mining breeding potential; genotype is another that can be added to that list. Accredited veterinarians who are working with producers to conduct genotyping are strongly urged to contact USDA Veterinary Services (VS) to obtain the forms necessary to ensure that the tests are official. Currently, however, The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and USDA VS are offering free genotyping services to eligible Oklahoma sheep flocks. These programs increase disease surveillance in Oklahoma while providing a service to producers. National Scrapie Eradication Program TSEs are the subject of increased attention and concern because of the discovery of BSE in cattle and the link between it and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans. In addition to the significant production losses experienced by infected flocks, the presence of scrapie in the U.S. has placed burdens and restrictions on the domestic and international markets for breeding stock, semen, embryos, meat, and bone meal. In all, scrapie is estimated to cost the U.S. sheep industry over $20 million annually. The combination of these factors led the USDA in 2001 to announce an accelerated program to eradicate scrapie in the nation’s sheep and goat flocks. The National Scrapie Eradication Program, coordinated by USDA VS, is a joint effort that includes participation by state governments, industry, veterinar-ians, and producers. This program is succeeding, and Animal Health Update | 3 the prevalence of scrapie has decreased by 80 percent since 2003. Veterinarians and producers can contrib-ute significantly to this program by: • Officially identifying sheep and goats per federal and state regulations. In Oklahoma, sheep and goats of any age must be officially identified before being moved for sale, exhibition, slaughter, or change of ownership. If unsure whether a particular sheep or goat needs to be identified, tag it. Official ear tags and applicator pliers are avail-able free of charge from USDA VS. • Select for genetically resistant breeding stock using genotyping. • Reporting suspect animals to the State Veterinar-ian’s Office (405-ALL-STAR) or USDA VS Office (405-751-1701). For more information regarding scrapie, free geno-typing, or identification requirements please contact Dr. Justin Roach Contributed by: Justin Roach, DVM, Staff Veterinarian Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry (405) 522-8396 or justin.roach@ag.ok.gov Equine Herpes Virus Type I and Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy This brief review article is in response to the recent incidence of horses being diagnosed with neuropathic EHV-1 infection that competed at the NCHA Western National Championships in Ogden, Utah (April 29 – May 8, 2011.) Horses from many states attended this show and could have possibly been exposed to this strain of EHV-1. Since then state veterinarians have been working diligently to prevent the further spread of the disease. Introduction Equine Herpes Virus Type I (EHV-1) is a DNA virus that affects horses and other mammals including but not limited to camelids. This virus is most commonly recognized as causing respiratory disease in horses less than 5 years of age; however it can also cause abortion in any aged pregnant mare. Neurologic disease is caused by certain strains of equine herpes virus type I can also occur. Transmission Most horses are exposed to EHV-1 by one year of age and they typically develop subclinical infection. The respiratory form of EHV-1 may result in mild clinical signs that go unnoticed or resolve without treatment. Once horses are exposed to EHV-1 they can become latently infected and carry the virus for life. These horses can be silent shedders of the virus providing a mechanism by which other horses can be exposed and subsequently infected. These silent carriers offer an explanation of how an outbreak can occur even in a closed herd. Transmission of EHV-1 occurs via direct contact with the virus due to ingestion or inhalation. This can occur by direct nose to nose contact with an infected horse, exposure to aerosolized viral particles, or direct contact with an infected fomite such as a bridle, feed, or water bucket. Nasal shedding can occur in clinically normal horses, as well as those showing illness and can continue several weeks. Clinical Signs Clinical signs of EHV-1 may vary with different strains. The respiratory form of the disease typically mani-fests with fever, serous nasal and ocular discharge, and coughing at 2-10 days following exposure. These same signs may precede the onset of neurologic signs. Secondary bacterial infections can follow the respira-tory form. Uncomplicated viral respiratory infection typically resolves in 1-2 weeks. Abortion due to EHV-1 most commonly occurs in the last trimester of preg-nancy. Neurologic signs of EHV-1 are variable and are reflective of a diffuse myeloencephalopathy includ-ing ataxia (oftentimes more severe in the hind limbs), urinary incontinence, decreased tail tone, and cranial nerve deficits. Stranguria may be present and could be mistaken initially as a mare coming into estrus. Horses may or may not be febrile. Neurologic signs are typi-cally symmetrical but can be asymmetrical. Neurologic signs typically appear 6-12 days after exposure. The neurologic signs may or may not be accompanied by respiratory manifestations of the disease. Neurologic signs typically stabilize in 2-3 days after the onset. Mildly affected horses typically experience full recov-ery, whereas those that become recumbent are much 4 | Veterinary Health Sciences less likely to recover and are most often euthanized. Differential Diagnoses Diseases that should be included as differentials for horses exhibiting neurologic signs consistent with EHV-1 include equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), western equine encephalitis (WEE), west Nile encephalitis (WNV), cervical stenotic myelopathy or cervical verte-bral instability, trauma, CNS abscess, rabies, and a variety of toxicities. Diagnosis Spinal paracentesis is frequently performed in any case of neurologic disease in the horse. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis in a horse with EHV-1 myeloencephalop-athy may reveal xanthochromia and increased protein concentration; however, the white blood cell count is typically normal. The most rapid method for obtaining a diagnosis of EHV-1 myeloencephalopathy is PCR on a nasal or nasopharyngeal swab with matched whole blood or buffy coat sample. It is important to note, however, that there is the potential for false positive results, as EHV-1 has been isolated from normal horses. PCR testing of nasal swabs and blood will typically test for both the DNA of EHV-1 and the marker asso-ciated with neuropathogenic strains of EHV-1 (ORF 30). Although non-neuropathogenic EHV-1 has been isolated from individual horses with neurologic disease, the majority of outbreaks are associated with neuro-pathogenic EHV-1. Virus isolation can be performed on buffy coat, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, or nasal swab. Treatment EHV-1 is a contagious disease, affected horses must be appropriately isolated from other horses and came-lids. People handling the infected horse must be aware that they can spread the infection to other animals. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment including nutritional and fluid support if indicated. Dependent on the severity of ataxia, housing in a padded or well bedded stall or even sling support with a hoist may be necessary. Controlling inflammation in the CNS is also an impor-tant aspect of treatment. Antiviral treatment options for neurologic EHV-1 have been investigated in horses. For information regarding our recommendations for treatment of EHV-1 please contact Drs. Todd Holbrook, Lyndi Gilliam, or Lara Maxwell directly at OSU Center Veterinary Health Sciences Veterinary Medical Teach-ing Hospital (405) 744-6656. Prevention The only sure way to prevent EHV-1 myeloencepha-lopathy is to prevent exposure. Efforts to prevent exposure should include isolation of any suspect horses and meticulous hygiene of personnel handling infected horses including protective clothing and thorough hand washing. Although EHV-1 is not likely to persist in the environment for long periods of time it is good practice to disinfect facilities and equipment exposed to infected horses. There are a variety of available disinfectants labeled for this purpose. While bleach is effective, it can be easily inactivated in the presence of organic matter so thorough cleaning prior to application is important. There are several vaccines that protect horses against the abortive and respiratory effects of EHV-1, however, their protection against the neurologic form is contro-versial and not well established. Neurologic EHV-1 is a reportable disease in Okla-homa and any suspicious cases should be reported to the state veterinarian (405) 522-6131. If you have questions regarding this article, please contact (405) 744-6656. Todd Holbrook, DVM, DACVIM Associate Professor Department Veterinary Clinical Sciences Dr. Lyndi Gilliam, DVM, DACVIM Assistant Professor Department Veterinary Clinical Sciences Alternative therapeutic options for management of chronic or recurring urinary tract disease in the dog and cat Although standard, mainstream, accepted therapy should always play a prominent role in treating patient problems, alternative therapeutic approaches can be valuable as adjunctive treatment options. Chronic or recurring urinary tract disease may benefit from Reprinting I f you would l ike to repr int an ar t icle please contact the author at the l isted number. Animal Health Update | 5 alternative treatment options as discussed below. Probiotics and Prebiotics Probiotics are live microorganisms, which when admin-istered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Prebiotics are defined as non-living, nondigest-ible food ingredients such as oligosaccharides which beneficially affect the host by selectively stimulating the growth of and/or activating the metabolism of one or a limited number of health promoting bacteria in the intestinal tract. When a probiotic is combined with a prebiotic for the purpose of producing a synergistic effect, the mixture is referred to as a synbiotic. Probiot-ics with or without prebiotics appear to have the most potential for use in dogs and cats as nutritional aids in the treatment and prevention of diarrhea. However, other organ systems besides the gastrointestinal tract may also benefit from the use of such supplements. As a general rule, in order to be effective probiotics must be stable in storage and provide large numbers of micro-organisms after surviving gastric transit. In addition, the microorganisms involved must be nonpathogenic, nontoxic, non-resistant to antibiotics, and incapable of being absorbed into the bloodstream following consumption. Probiotics are frequently administered with food. The microorganisms administered are only transient residents of the GI tract. Consequently, when probiotics are indicated, they must be administered on a continuing basis to achieve the desired effect. If given concurrently with an antibiotic, the probiotic should be administered at a different time of day than the antibiotic. One synbiotic product (Azodyl®, Vetoquinol) has been marketed as a preparation that will lower the concentration of nitrogenous waste products (especially, BUN and creatinine) in the blood of canine and feline patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) through enteric metabolism of uremic solutes by the probiotic organisms. This action, according to the marketing company, helps prevent further kidney damage and minimizes the clinical and biochemical consequences of declining renal function. Azodyl® is administered to patients as an enteric-coated capsule which contains Enterococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium longum as probiotic organisms and oligosaccharides as prebiotic agents. Although anecdotal and/or uncontrolled reports exist of reduc-tion in azotemia in dogs and cats, the studies on which the company’s claims are primarily based are nephrec-tomized rat and minipig models. A clinical study of cats with a placebo-control group has been conducted, but the results, as-of-yet, have not been published. An additional concern raised about efficacy of Azodyl® lies in the fact that this product can be difficult to administer to cats in its capsule form. Consequently, the contents of the capsule are frequently sprinkled on the feline patient’s food for administration, raising the question of whether the probiotic agent will be sufficiently active to be effective following GI transit. As of this writing, although Azodyl® would not be considered harmful to canine and feline patients with CKD, its efficacy in regard to the manufacturer’s claims is questionable. It has also been suggested that probiotics may aid in the prevention of oxalate urolith formation. Studies in humans and rats have shown a decrease in urine oxalate concentration with coloniza-tion of the intestinal tract with Oxalobacter formigenes, a microorganism that facilitates degradation of oxalate in the gut and leads to decreased excretion of oxalate in the urine. The potential for use of this organism as a means of reducing oxalate urolith formation in dogs and cats has not been adequately investigated. Further-more, the microbe which most consistently degrades oxalate in the gut, Oxalobacter formigenes, is not contained in the common probiotic preparations used in the dog and cat. Rhubarb Recently the product Rubenal® by Vetoquinol has been marketed for use in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease in dogs and cats. The product contains a medicinal rhubarb, Rheum officinale, which report-edly acts as an antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory agent and, in various lab animal species, has decreased the severity of experimental glomerulosclerosis and related proteinuria. These actions have the potential to slow down the progression of kidney disease and result in a better quality of life. Kansas State University currently has a study under way which is evaluating the effects of 6 | Veterinary Health Sciences Rubenal® on feline patients with chronic renal disease (CRD). Preliminary results have given some support to the idea that the active ingredient does decrease proteinuria and delay progression of CRD. The pill administered is large and may be difficult to give to some cats. Few side effects have been observed but include vomiting and lethargy. Administering Rube-nal ® to patients with a history of calcium oxalate urolithiasis should be avoided due to the potential for increased oxalate excretion in the urine with rhubarb consumption. Cranberry Supplement Cranberry supplement may help prevent recurring bacterial urinary tract infection, especially infection caused by E. coli. It probably does not acidify the urine sufficiently to be effective in that way, but is thought to help destroy the biofilm that helps protect certain bacteria and allow them to attach to the uroepithelium. It is not recommended for use in patients suffering from or having a history of oxalate uroliths since cranberry supplements may contribute to the excretion of oxalate and favor oxalate formation because of its acidifying qualities. It is best used concurrently with appropriate antibiotic therapy and/or immediately after antibiotic therapy has eradicated infection. Cranberry juice can be used in both dogs and cats, but it is bitter tasting and it is difficult to get a pet to consume enough to accomplish the desired effect. UroMAXX™ by Animal Nutritional Products has cranberry extract which is combined with other nutriceuticals for urinary tract health and is an easy formulation for administer-ing one to two times daily (I would recommend twice daily dosing). Over the-counter cranberry extract can be purchased as a health supplement. Dosing is vari-able, but is generally recommended at approximately 10 – 20 mg/kg every 12 hours mixed with food. Methenamine For prevention of recurring urinary tract infection (UTI), especially of E. coli, consider the use of a urinary antiseptic once the UTI is appropriately treated with antibiotics and under control (methenamine hippu-rate – 500 mg/dog PO q12 hrs or 250 mg/cat PO q12 hrs). Methenamine will not be as effective with urease-producing organisms like some strains of Staph, Proteus, Enterobacter, and Pseudomonas which increase urine pH; consequently, a urinary acidifier may be required to be given concurrently to increase efficacy. The compound methenamine hippurate has hippuric acid added to help acidify the urine to aid in the hydrolysis of methenamine to formaldehyde and ammonia. A urine pH of < 5.5 is optimum for breakdown of methenamine. Both formaldehyde and hippuric acid have nonspecific antibacterial activity against various gram positive and gram negative organisms. Methenamine may also have antimicrobial activity against fungal organisms. It is inadvisable to administer methenamine to patients that are pregnant, lactating, dehydrated, or experi-encing renal or hepatic insufficiency. Adverse effects resulting from methenamine are primarily related to nausea, anorexia and vomiting although dysuria may be produced occasionally in response to high urine formaldehyde concentrations. Omega-Three Fatty Acids Fatty acid supplements have become popular as thera-peutic and preventative agents over the last several years for a variety of disorders, including renal disease, cancer, osteoarthritis, hypertriglyceridemia/hypercholester-olemia, dermatitis, urogenital infections, and cardiac disease. Although many of the claims of efficacy are unproven, the potential for use as anti-inflammatory agents seems to be supported both in theory and in the clinical setting. The fatty acid supplements most commonly used are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega – 3 fatty acid supplements include eicosapen-tanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are derived from oils of fish such as salmon, trout and menhaden and from flaxseed. Omega-6 fatty acid supplements include linoleic acid (LA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which are derived from oils of seeds such as evening primrose, black currant, and borage. Fatty acid anti-inflammatory effect comes about through the mechanism of cell injury and the subse-quent inflammatory cascade that ultimately involves the lipooxygenase and cyclooxygenase enzyme pathways. When cell membranes are injured, phospholipids in the membranes are broken down enzymatically, produc-ing the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and the omega-6 fatty acid, arachidonic acid. Metabolism of eicosapentaenoic acid results in the formation of products called eicosanoids that are non-inflammatory, Reprinting I f you would l ike to repr int an ar t icle please contact the author at the l isted number. Animal Health Update | 7 non-immunosuppressive, and anticoagulatory (inhibit platelet aggregation and clotting). Conversely, metabo-lism of arachidonic acid produces eicosanoids that are primarily pro-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and pro-coagulatory (cause platelet aggregation and clot-ting). An exception to the production of inflammatory eicosanoids from arachidonic acid is the formation of the anti-inflammatory agent prostaglandin E1. In addition, the omega-6 fatty acid di-homo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) produces eicosanoids that are less inflammatory than those produced from arachi-donic acid. Consequently, dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids and the omega – 6 fatty acid DGLA would be expected to result in increased production of non-inflammatory eicosanoids and decrease in inflam-mation from cell injury. Since fish oils can have an objectionable odor and occa-sionally cause GI upset, flaxseed oil is sometimes used as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil does contain some omega-6 fatty acids, but is also a source of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted to EPA and DHA. However, dogs and cats are not thought to have good ability to convert ALA to more actively non-inflammatory components, limiting its usefulness as a dietary source of beneficial omega-3 fatty acid. As stated previously, supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids increases the production of non-inflammatory eicosanoids, includ-ing prostaglandins, which can be beneficial in reducing inflammation in renal disease as well as improving blood flow to the kidney through vasodilation. In addition, such supplementation can decrease the production of inflammatory eicosanoids. Published study data related to chronic renal disease has been most supportive of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in dogs although some data exists suggesting potential benefits in chronic renal failure cats fed diets supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. Studies with chronic renal failure dogs have indicated that those dogs receiving omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had improved renal function and fewer histopathologic lesions in the kidneys. Combin-ing antioxidants with omega-3 fatty acids may have a synergistic effect in benefiting pets affected by chronic renal disease. Although a wide range of doses (50 – 300 mg/kg/day) can be found for omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, (especially, EPA and DHA) doses around 100 mg/kg/ day have been suggested for canine and feline patients with chronic renal disease. Many prescription diets for pets have omega-3 fatty acids incorporated into the formulation, including canine and feline renal diets. Omega-6 fatty acids may be beneficial in combination with omega-3 fatty acids, but an ideal ratio for supple-ments has not been determined. Fish oil supplements are usually in the form of capsules or liquids. Fish oils can oxidize and become rancid, prompting manufac-turers to add Vitamin E or to extract oxygen from fish oil capsules in order to prevent rancidity. At higher doses, fish oils may decrease platelet aggregation and prolong bleeding time, increase fibrinolysis, and may reduce von Willebrand factor. Gastrointestinal signs such as nausea, gas formation, and diarrhea may be associated with fish oil supplementation. Administer-ing these supplements with food and increasing doses gradually may help limit or prevent gastrointestinal side effects. Mary Bowles, DVM, DACVIM Associate Professor, Veterinary Clinical Sciences (405) 744-7000 Service Dogs and Veterinary Medicine Is your practice ready to meet the needs of a client with a service dog? The popularity of these highly trained dogs working to assist those with physical disabilities, seizures, diabetes, hearing or visual impairments, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is growing by leaps and bounds. This growth is fueled in part by the number of veterans returning home from war. Service dogs are typically pure bred Labrador Retriev-ers and Golden Retrievers though some organizations will work with rescued dogs. Typically the animal is in the training program from the age of eight weeks (or younger if the organization has a breeding program) to 2 years of age. While in training these valuable dogs receive wonderful health care as a result of the gener-osity of individual donors and veterinarians willing to discount their services. Once a service dog has completed 8 | Veterinary Health Sciences training and is ready for placement they obtain health clearances for both hips and elbows. Once a service dog is placed, the dog’s new partner is responsible for health care. And the general practice veterinarian will need to not only keep track of and provide annual vaccinations, heartworm test, and fecal check and prevention products but also keep in mind the special needs of the dog and the client. For example, a service dog must be clean and disease free, not only to prevent their partner from getting any infections but also to maintain their public access as allowed by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Other considerations to keep in mind relate to the disabled individual – a wheelchair bound client, when faced with a dog that starts having diarrhea, has additional challenges beyond those of the general population and a client with mobility problems usually relies heavily on a service dog to maintain independence so the indi-vidual must make additional plans if their service dog has to spend a night or two at the vet clinic. A veterinarian with a service dog for a client will soon realize that the abilities the dog has gained though training will present some interesting situations. Dogs that are trained to open refrigerator or kitchen cabinet doors and drawers and fetch something from that area can use his skills to get into the type of trouble not usually seen with the family pet. And service dogs are usually rewarded for performing tasks with small treats – a partner with a lot of love for his service dog may over treat so keep an eye out for problems with obesity. Being the health care provider for a service dog is deeply rewarding. The experience will be fun, challenging, and extremely interesting with endless opportunities for creativity. And if there is a service dog organization in your area get involved! These organizations always need volunteers. Barbara Miller, DVM, Director-Veterinary Care Susan Hartman, Executive Director Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma (918) 270-4226 or www.therapetics.org Testing efficacy of Anthelmintic combinations in goats done by LJ Dawson and S Hart at the American Institute of Goat Research at Langston University. Results published in the Journal of Animal Science 2010. Gastrointestinal nematodes have developed a high level of resistance to most commercially available anthelmintics mitigating the effectiveness of chemo-therapy for their control. One potential solution is to use combinations of anthelmintics to control gastroin-testinal nematodes. The purpose of this study was to compare the relative efficacy of anthelmintic combina-tions as compared to one anthelmintic alone. Boer x Spanish does, over one year of age, were used in this study. The study was done in late June on a group of animals which were in late pregnancy or had recently kidded. Haemonchus contortus would be expected to be the dominant gastrointestinal nematode at this time of the year. Does were given their treatments, fecal samples taken and then fecal samples were taken 7 days later. Drugs used included albendazole (20 mg/ kg bwt), levamisole (12 mg/kg bwt) or moxidectin (0.5 mg/kg bwt) and two – or three – way combina-tions at the same dose, administered simultaneously. All these treatments were given orally. Treatments were 1) albendazole; 2) levamisole; 3) moxidectin; 4) albendazole-levamisole combination; 5) albendazole-moxidectin combination; 6) levamisole-moxidectin combination; 7) albendazole-levamisole-moxidectin combination; 8) copper oxide wire capsulres (2.0 g) and 9) control. Each treatment was administered to 12 animals at random. Fecal egg counts were deter-mined by a modificed McMaster procedure and fecal egg count reduction (FECR) calculated. All animals with an initial fecal egg count of less than 250 eggs per gram (EPG) were deleted from the data with an aver-age of 8.6 animals per treatment. Data were analyzed by the SAS procedure. Comparisons of treatment were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test. The median initial fecal egg count was 2,550 EPG. Median FECR for treatments was 76, 39, 74, 85, 98, 98, 99, 28, and 14% for treatment 1, 2,3,4,5,6,7,8, and 9 respectively. Treatments 2 and 8 were not significantly different from control (p > 0.10). Significant anthel-mintic resistance was present since FECR for each anthelmintic alone was less than 95%. Moxidectin Reprinting I f you would l ike to repr int an ar t icle please contact the author at the l isted number. Animal Health Update | 9 and albendazole were significantly more effective than levamisole (p < 0.06). Levamisole combinations with moxidectin were more effective than levamisole alone (p < 0.01). All anthelmintic combinations except for the albendazole and levamisole combination were highly effective. Anthelmintic combinations provide increased efficacy over one anthelmintic and may be a useful tool where there is significant anthelmintic resistance. Goats Gastrointestinal Parasite Control Basics Internal Parasites are a major problem in small rumi-nants. There are variety issues that can predispose small ruminants to internal parasites including: stock-ing rates, grazing instead of browsing, poor nutrition including trace mineral deficiency; indiscriminate use of anthelmintics; not using an effective dose of the anthel-mintic; injectable route instead of oral administration of anthelmintic, selecting animals with anthelmintic resistance. All of these issues can contribute to the development of parasite resistance of anthelmintics on the market today. FAMACHA is not a parasite control program but is a tool in a parasite control program. Haemonchus contortus (barber pole worm) is a common parasite of small ruminants that causes anemia. You can measure the extent or degree of anemia with the FAMACHA card by comparing the color on the inside of the eyelid of the conjunctiva to the color on the card. Treat all animals with a FAMACHA score of 4 or 5 with an effective anthelmintic and check again two weeks later (other conditions can cause anemia like abomasal ulcer, coccidiosis, lice and liver flukes etc.) If greater than 10% of the animals in a herd have FAMACHA scores of 4 or 5 then consider treating animals that score 3, especially does and ewes around lambing/kidding or nursing; young animals and thin poorly conditioned animals. In addition to the FAMACHA eye scores, a parasite management program should include monitor-ing of fecal egg counts periodically. Treat new animals to a farm with at least two classes of anthelmin-tics during quarantine period, and check a week later to make sure their feces are free of eggs. This procedure will minimize importing resistant intestinal parasites. There are 4 classes of anthelmintics used in goats to control parasites and few are approved for use in goats. Therefore a producer should have a Valid Client Patient Relationship or VCPR with a veterinarian before they can legally use these products. Approved anthelmintics in goats are Benzimidiazoles and Tetrahydropyrmidines. Benzimiazoles disrupt the formation of intestinal microtubules of the parasites, thus preventing uptake of glucose. Benzimidazoles available are: Albenda-zole (Valbazen); Fenbendazole (Panacur, Safeguard); Oxfendzole (Synanthic); Thiabendazole (Thiabenda-zole); Mebendazole (Telmin). Due to the mechanism of action of benizimadazoles, they can kill roundworms, lungworms and tapeworms. Liver flukes are susceptible to Albendazole. Because of the long history of use in small ruminants, there is greater level of resistance to Benizimidazoles. Macrocyclic lactones stimulate the release of Gamma Amino Benzoic Acid (GABA), which inhibits neuro-transmission and paralyze the parasite, which leads to death of the parasite by starvation. Macrocyclic lactones available are: Ivermectic – Ivomec (injectable or drench); Moxidectin – Cydectin (pour-on and inject-able); Doramectin – Dectomax (injectable or pour-on); Eprinomectin – Epirinex (pour-on). Macrocyclic lactones are not effective against liver flukes and tapeworm. Imidazothiazoles and Tetrahydro pyrimidines are cell depolarizers or nicotinic agonists. They cause constric-tion of the muscles, resulting in paralysis of the parasite. The parasites are expelled alive. This class is effective against roundworms. Imidazothiazoles available are Levamisole and Tramisole. Tetrahydropyrimidines available are Morantel or Rumatel and Pyrantel. Guidelines – Use of Anthelmintics in Goats: • Use 1.5 times the sheep dose, because goats have faster rate of passage and larger livers to metabo-lize the drugs. Levamisole is used at 12 mg/kg, and Cydectin is used orally at 0.5 mg/kg (pour-on dose orally). • Administer anthelmintics orally (back behind tongue) 10 | Veterinary Health Sciences Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab • Do not return the animal to the same pasture, rather a new uncontaminated pasture 24 after treatment • Observe withdrawal period before selling goat • Pour-on anthelmintic products are ineffective & anthelmintics should not be injected • Hold goats off feed 12 hours and treat with anthel-mintic and keep off feed another 12 or more hours • Treat with anthelmintic twice, 12 to 24 h apart especially benizimadozoles 20 mg/kg. • Administration of anthelmintics in blocks, water or feed not recommended because this often results in animals not getting the correct dose and enhances anthelmintic resistance. Management Steps to Help Minimize Anthelmintic Resistance: • Animal selection (cull goats that consistently have high fecal egg counts) • Pasture rotation • Co-species grazing • Low stocking rates, etc • Only treat goats that need to be treated as deter-mined by FAMACHA eye color score • Good nutrition – sufficient protein, energy, vita-mins and minerals • Treating and moving to clean pen or pasture • Always administer an anthelmintic at appropriate dose (see above) • Avoid treating when pasture has few larva – late summer or early fall. • An effective anthelmintics will reduce fecal egg counts by 95% at 7-14 days after giving the Anthelmintics Lionel Dawson, DVM, DACT Associate Professor, Veterinary Clinical Sciences – OSU Associate Professor, Research and Extension – Langton University Cytauxzoonosis With the Oklahoma rains last month and increased humidity the numbers of ticks are increasing and consequently OADDL started seeing our first cases of Cytauxzoonosis in cats for 2011. The onset of clinical signs and ensuing rapid death often leads the owner of the cat to suspect a poisoning. Clinically the cat is presented with anorexia, pyrexia, dehydration, pallor, icterus and maybe dark urine and dyspnea. On post-mortem examination there is typically yellow fluid in the thorax and abdomen, anemia, petechia, pulmonary edema and splenomeglia. Common Herbicide/Pesticide Questions • What is the withdrawal time of MSMA? It contains arsenic and will be on the plant until a good hard rain washes it off. • Can I spray Round-up around my kennel? Yes, it is relatively safe, however there may always be dogs that are hypersensitive to it. May emit toxic fumes if burned. There is a 14-56 day grazing restriction. • Can horses graze pastures sprayed with 2-4-D? Yes, there is no withdrawal time for horses. • Will herbicide mist kill the fish in my water garden? Yes, fish are extremely sensitive to all chemicals that can get in the water. • Can I spray DEET on my animals? DEET is a cholinesterase inhibitor and is synergistic with other pesticides. Numerous cases of neurotoxic-ity have been reported in cats and dogs associated with the topical use of a product containing DEET and the pyrethroid fenvalerate. Problems have also been reported in horses wiped with DEET wipes. There is a free 24-hour Oklahoma Poison Control Hotline 1-800-222-1222 Sandra Morgan, DVM Veterinary Toxicologist Animal Health Update | 11 Equine Piroplasmosis Since the identification of an index ranch in South Texas in the fall of 2009 and subsequent identification of infected horses associated with horse racing; many states have instituted screening for Babesia caballi and Babesia (Theileria) equi, the parasites responsible for Equine Piroplasmosis, EP. The Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission began requiring in July 2010 that all horses entering tracks under their jurisdication would require a negative test for EP. Because of this OADDL was granted approval by the USDA to perform EP testing. During the first year of increased surveillance, 2010, the USDA confirmed over 400 positive horses in approximately 10 states; both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing animals. Annual testing for Piro-plasmosis remains a requirement at all three Oklahoma Pari-mutuel Race Tracks for 2011. In addition, some other equine events have instituted mandatory test-ing; most notably will be a negative test result within six months for all horses entered in the four AQHA World Shows in the summer/fall of 2011. OADDL has performed 5793 Piroplasmosis tests since July of last year and will continue to provide twice weekly test-ing through the summer of 2011. Test submission to OADDL requires the serum to be accompanied by a fully completed, Oklahoma State Department of Agri-culture, Food and Forestry Piroplasmosis Test Chart. These forms are available through the State Veteri-narians Office at 405/522-6142. Please take time to familiarize yourself with the requirements and test schedule availability for Piroplasmosis at the OADDL website, http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index, then click academics, then diagnostic laboratory. Grant B. Rezabek MPH, DVM Pathologist, OADDL Trichomoniasis in Oklahoma 1/1/2011 – 6/7/2011 Half of the positive bulls testing for Tritrichomonas fetus has really increased in the last couple of years as surrounding states have passed requirements that breeding age bulls entering their state have a negative Tritrichomonas fetus test certificate. In January, 2011, Oklahoma law required that breeding age bulls being sold or entering Oklahoma must have a negative test certificate for T. fetus. In 2010 there were approximately 2,800 Oklahoma bulls tested for T. fetus. 75 of the bulls were positive for a 2.7% positive rate. So far in 2011 approximately 4,000 Oklahoma bulls have been tested. 93 of the bulls have been positive for a 2.3 % positive rate. Half of the positive bulls in Oklahoma this year have come from about 10 counties in the northeastern corner of the state. This number does not necessarily mean an increased incidence in this area since I have not calculated the number of bulls tested in each county. Also as veterinarians in northeastern Oklahoma have found more of the disease, more clients have decided they want to test for trichomonas even though they may not be shipping a bull for sale which subsequently results in finding more positive bulls. We are also find-ing a lot of the disease in northwestern Arkansas and that has resulted in the Arkansas Livestock and Poul-try Commission enacting emergency rules similar to Oklahoma. I appreciate the work that veterinarians, extension personnel, livestock market owners, cattlemen’s groups, and many others have done in educating cattle producers about this disease. I appreciate the producers them-selves being cooperative and ethical in dealing with their infected bulls and possibly infected cows by not selling them in ways that could transmit the disease to another’s herd. Call if I can answer any questions or be of assistance. Rod Hall, DVM (405) 522-6126 or rod.hall@ag.ok.gov Guest Speakers & Topics Small Animal Dr. Steven Marks • Update on cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation • Fluid therapy for the trauma patient • Diagnosis and management of respi-ratory trauma • Practical critical care techniques Dr. Tiffany Tapp • Pi t fal ls to avoid in veter inar y dermatology • Dermatology dilemma: resistant bacte-rial skin infections • Dermatology dilemma: resistant ear infections • New(er) drugs and treatments in veteri-nary dermatology Dr. Chelsea Makloski • Small animal dystocia • Pyometra management Large Animal Dr. Daniel Thomson • Improving your client’s bottom line through animal health & well-being • Star ting stocker calves: health management • Starting stocker calves: nutrition management Dr. Tom Hairgrove • Cow/Calf herd health • Leptospirosis • Vector borne disease Equine Dr. Peter Morresey • What’s new in equine reproduction and equine medicine? • Managing the high risk mare • The foal: the first 30 days • The foal: the first 6 months Dr. Betsy Vaughan • Ultrasound non acute abdomen: Chronic colic, fever of unknown origin and weight loss • The value of Pastern ultrasound • Ultrasound-guided procedures: tips, tools and techniques • Equine ultrasound wet lab — hands on instruction will include ultrasound examination of the pastern and meta-tarsal regions and ultrasound-guided techniques (cadaver limbs). Keynote Speaker — Dr. Guy Palmer • Global Animal Health Cowboy Roundup — Thursday, October 6 – 6:30 pm — Student Union Alumni Class reunions — 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Distinguished Alumni Lunch Friday, October 7 – 11:30 am. Early August — watch your mailbox for the Fall Conference Brochure; check our website: http://www.cvhs.okstate. edu/conference Friday and Saturday, Oct. 6 & 7, 2011 Wes Watkins Conference Center Thank you to our Cowboy Sponsors – Bayer Animal Health, Merial, Pfizer, Boeh-ringer Ingelheim Oklahoma State University in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. Title IX of the Education Amendments and Oklahoma State University policy prohibit discrimination in the provision of services of benefits offered by the University based on gender. Any person (student, faculty or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based upon gender may discuss their concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with the OSU Title IX Coordinator, Director of Affirmative Action, 408 Whitehurst, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, 405-744-5371 or 405-744-5576 (fax). This publication, Job# 3658 issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the Department Head, Animal Sciences, was printed by Career Tech at a cost of $1,220.00 2.5M/Feb/11. Plan to join us for Fall Conference for Veterinarians |
Date created | 2011-07-22 |
Date modified | 2011-10-28 |