INDIAN JOURNAL OF CANINE PRACTICE

An Official Organ of Indian Society for Advancement of Canine Practice

Vol. 06 No. 1 Half Yearly JUNE 2014
Chief Editor CHIEF PATRON Prof. P.N. Bhat
Former Director & V.C., I.V.R.I
Prof. (Dr.) A.K. Srivastava PATRONS Prof. R.M. Acharya
Lucknow Former D.D.G.(AS), I.C.A.R.,
Prof. P.K. Uppal
Editor Former Director, NRCE,
Prof. R.R. Shukla
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COVAS, Bhubneswar Prof. Nagendra Sharma
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Dr. Amarpal APEX ADVISORY BOARD Prof. J.M. Nigam
I.V.R.I., Izatnagar Former Dean COVAS,Palampur (H.P.)
Prof. Harpal Singh
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 INSTRUCTIONS TO AUTHORS
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Madhu, B. and Lal, S. S. (1987). The in vitro effects of anthelmintics on phosphatases of sheep nodular worm.
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 CON T EN T S
CANINE MEDICINE
CONCURRENT TOXOCARA CATI AND ISOSPORA FELIS INFECTION IN TWO PERSIAN CATS …… 01
Manju K. Mathew, Usha Narayana Pillai, Thomas Edison D’Sa, Anahita Anil Kumar and S Yogeshpriya
DIROFILARIASIS IN A DOG …… 03
A.K. Srivastava and B. Syed
VERTEBRAL HEART SCALE SCORE OF MONGREL DOGS …… 05
Mukesh Srivastava, R.P. Pandey, Ashish Srivastava, Deepesh Kumar, S. Purohit and V. Malik
THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF OTITIS EXTERNA IN DOGS …… 09
Chandan Lodh, Suprabha Choudhury and Surojit Das
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF CHOLANIGO-HEPATITIS WITH URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID IN …… 13
A DOG
R.K. Bhardwaj, A.K. Gupta, J.S. Soodan and R. Singh
RENAL FAILURE – A CLINICAL REPORT OF THREE CASES …… 16
Lalita Kumari and S. Haque
NEPHROTIC SYNDROME IN A SIAMESE CAT …… 19
A.K. Srivastava and B. Syed
CANINE MICRBIOLOGY
VACCINE FAILURE AGAINST CANINE PARVOVIRUS INFECTIONS IN DOGS …… 21
S. Nandi and Manoj Kumar
CANINE REPRODUCTION
FOLLICULAR CYSTIC OVARIES AND CEH-PYOMETRA IN A DOG …… 31
C. Jayakumar, Abhignya Krishna, K.S. Shwetha and G. Sudha
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS AND LANDMARKS IN DOMESTIC CATS ……. 33
S.U. Gulavane, M.N. Rangnekar, S.A. Bakshi , R.J. Chaudhari and P.J. Thakur
CANINE SURGERY
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF CANINE OSTEOARTHRITIS ...... 38
V.P. Chandrapuria, Apra Shahi, H.S. Dhakare and Somil Rai
A REPORT ON APHAKIC VISION FOLLOWING PHACOEMULSIFICATION AND INTRAOCULAR ...... 42
LENS POWER REQUIREMENTS IN CATS
C. Ramani, N.J. D’Souza, M.K. Ahirwar, L. Nagarajan and B.J. William
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF SOFT TISSUE SARCOMA IN A DOG ...... 45
Ramesh Rathod, A.S. Patil, L. Ranganath, B.N. Nagaraja, A. Anirudh and Ravikumar
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOSARCOMA IN A DOG ...... 47
A. Anirudh, K.M. Srinivasa Murthy and L. Ranganath
A CASE OF CANINE TRANSMISIBLE VENEREAL TUMOUR IN A MALE DOG AND ITS SURGICAL ...... 49
MANAGEMENT
Jayakrushna Das, Sidhartha Sankar Behera, S.K. Panda, P.K. Rath, M. Behera and S. Pati
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF INGUINAL HERNIA IN A MALE DOG ...... 53
S. Ravikumar and L. Ranganath
MANDIBULAR FRACTURE AND ITS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT IN A DOG ...... 56
Jayakrushna Das, Sidhartha Sankar Behera and Ananta Hembram
CUNEIFORM ULNAR OSTEOTOMY FOR VALGUS DEFORMITY OF RADIUS AND ULNA IN A ...... 60
GREAT DANE PUP
S. Ravikumar, V. Mahesh and L. Ranganath
BILATERAL HYGROMA IN A GREAT DANE DOG AND ITS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT ...... 62
I. Nath, Jasmeet Singh, Sidhartha Sanker Behera, Prasant Kumar Sika and B.K Dwibedy
MASSIVELY ENLARGED MAMMARY TUMOUR IN A DOG AND ITS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT ...... 65
I. Nath, Jasmeet Singh, S.S. Behera, Samir Kumar Das, Sujit Prasad Das and Sripati Sethi
MEGAESOPHAGUS AND ITS MANAGEMENT IN THREE DIFFERENT LARGE BREED ADULT ...... 69
BITCHES
A.K. Maji and Arnab Kumar Majie
URETHROCYSTOSCOPIC DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF URINARY TRACT ...... 72
DISORDER IN FEMALE DOGS
V.P. Chandrapuria, Dinesh Gupta, Apra Shahi, Dharmendra Kumar and Somil Rai
CANINE NUTRITION
COMPARATIVE GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF PUPPIES ON HOMEMADE AND COMMERCIAL …… 80
NON – VEGETARIAN FOOD
G.M. Gadegaonkar S,.A. Kale, M.B. Patil and V.D. Kank
CANINE APPLIED SUBJECTS
PREVALENCE OF SPONTANEOUSLY OCCURRING NEOPLASMS AMONGST CANINES IN JAMMU …… 87
Asma Hamid, Shagufta Azmi, Shafiqur Rahman and Maneesh Sharma
A STUDY ON CLINICAL AND HAEMATOBIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN CANINE …… 92
DEMODICOSIS
A. Janus, P.V. Tresamol, K.A. Mercey, Biju P. Habeeb and H. Shameem
CANINE METASTATIC MAMMARY CARCINOMA IN LUNGS: A CASE REPORT …… 95
S. Roshini, G.N. Patil, A.K. Mhase, G.K. Sawale, S.D. Moregaonkar and D.P. Kadam

Note: The Authors and editors do not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage arising from actions or decisions based
on information contained in this publication. The opinion expressed are those of the authors and the inclusion in this
publication does not amount to its endorsement.
 CONCURRENT TOXOCARA CATI AND ISOSPORA FELIS
INFECTION IN TWO PERSIAN CATS

Manju K. Mathew, Usha Narayana Pillai, Thomas Edison D’Sa, Anahita Anil
Kumar and S Yogeshpriya
Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine,
College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, 680651.
[Received: 06.2.2014; Accepted: 08.6.2014]

Isospora genera of the protozoan with a complaint of anorexia since three

coccidia is found to affect dogs and cats days and foul smelling diarrhoea. Cats were
(Soulsby, 1982). Two species infect cats I transported from Bangalore one week back.
felis and I rivolta. The organism is Animals were fed both commercial cat food
worldwide in distribution and the and homely food. On clinical examination
developmental stages occur in the small intestinal loops were found to be thickened.
intestine. Animals become infected by Toxocara cati (Fig.2) worm was found in
ingesting sporulated oocysts. Toxocara faeces. On microscopic examination of
cati occurs in the small intestine of cats. faeces sporulated and unsporulated
Paratenic hosts, rats, play an important role Isospora felis (Fig.3) oocyst could be seen.
in the life cycle of this organism. Animals were treated with Banminth
suspension @ 7.5mg/kg orally and advised
Case History and Observations Bactrisol bolus @ 15mg/kg per oral for five
Two Persian cats, one six months of days along with supportive multivitamin
age and other fourteen months old (Fig.1) therapy.
were presented at University Veterinary
Hospital, Mannuthy in September 2011

Fig.1: 6 months old kitten Fig.2 : Toxocara cati worms from faeces Fig.3: sporulated and
unsporulated coccidial oocysts

Results
Owner reported improvement in intake came to normal with formed faeces
condition of the cats after one week. Food and faecal samples were negative for
parasitic ova after two weeks.

Discussion

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 1 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 Isosporosis in kittens occurs second stage larvae. Majority of infections
primarily during weaning stress. Clinical in kittens are derived from the milk of
signs in the case discussed include infected queens. Clinical signs included
diarrhoea, weight loss and dehydration as general unthriftiness, pot bellied
described by Tomimura (1957). appearance, intermittent diarrhoea and
Coccidiosis is usually associated with other anaemia. Diagnosis is by presence of eggs
infectious agents, immunosuppression or in faeces and clinical signs. Treatment can
stress. In the present case cats were be done with benzimidazoles, pyrantel
subjected to transportation stress one week pamoate, piperazine, DEC etc.
earlier. Diagnosis of the case is by clinical
symptoms and demonstration of oocysts in References
the feces. Isospora oocysts consists of 2 Soulsby, E.J.L., (1982). Helminths,
sporocysts each with 4 sporozoites. arthropods and protozoa of
Treatment may be unnecessary in cats since domesticated animals, Elsevier
they usually spontaneously eliminate the Saunder, St.Louis, Missouri, USA
infection. In clinically affected animals 809p.
sulfa- trimethoprim could be used. Tomimura, T.(1957) . Experimental studies
Prenatal infection does not occur on coccidiosis in dogs and cats.
with Toxocara cati and the infection is by Riseichugaku Zasshi.6: 12-14.
ingestion of eggs containing infective

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 2 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 DIROFILARIASIS IN A DOG

A.K. Srivastava and B. Syed

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia.
[Received: 22.6.2013; Accepted: 03.1.2014]

Commonly known as heartworm eliminate adult worms and reduce the risk
disease, dirofilariasis is a parasitic disease of thromboembolism. Therefore, it has
caused by a nematode called “Dirofilaria been suggested that a combination of
immitis”, which in its adult form lives in Doxycycline for 30 days and Ivermectin for
the right side of the heart and pulmonary 6 months has a potential efficacy, as high
arteries. Dirofilariasis is a serious illness as 73%, in the adulticide therapy in dogs
which can affect cats and dogs that get it infested with D immitis (Bazzocchi C. et
from mosquito bites, which inoculate al., 2008 and Giannelli A. et al., 2013).
microfilariae through the skin from an A G.S.D. of 3 years old from the
infected animal into a healthy one (Arnold Somali region was referred to the Faculty
P. et al.,1994 and Levy J.K. et al., 2011). Clinic of Jigjiga University, Jigjiga with a
Normally after 6 months from the time history of weight loss and rapid fatigue. It
the contagion occurred, the tiny was having the symptoms of chronic
microfilariae that are traveling through the cough, occasional dyspnoea and poor
bloodstream reach their adult form and exercise tolerance with normal appetite.
accumulate in the heart’s right ventricle and The dog had the temperature of 39.50C. On
pulmonary arteries. Most frequent signs in clinical examination increased vesicular
dogs associated to the parasite’s location sounds and dyspnoea after physical
are: loss of appetite, weight loss, cough, excitement and effort were the only
laboured breathing and the presence of abnormal findings demonstrable.
blood in respiratory secretions, among Radiologically demonstrated changes of the
others. Cats, on the other hand, can also pulmonary arteries led to a tentative
develop asthma and tachycardia. The diagnosis of Dirofilariosis. The stool
severity of these and other clinical signs examination was negative for parasitic
depends on the number of worms, the infestation. The parasitological diagnosis
animal’s activity and its immune response based on serology and the morphology of
the worm. Therefore, in some animals it microfilaria isolated from the blood
can derive in a congestive heart failure, indicated an infection by microfilariae and
abdominal against oedema or oedema of adult stages of Dirofilaria immitis. On
the extremities, and even death due to a haematological examination, the
large number of worms in the heart (Hoch haemogram of the dog revealed mild
H. and Strickland K., 2008). anaemia. However in present case
A novel approach for the treatment of neutrophilia was also recorded.
cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis is targeting After premedication with Aspirin,
the Wolbachia rickettsial endosymbionts. the patient was treated against adult filariae
Treatment with tetracyclines has been with Caparsolate, and a month later with
reported to damage D. immitis, even Ivermectin against the microfilariae. At the
causing death of adult worms (Kramer L. et time of reexamination, 5 months after
al., 2008 and Colby K.N. et al., 2011). initiation of therapy, the dog was clinically
Long-lasting administration of both healthy and free of any demonstrable
Doxycycline and Ivermectin before or in infection with Dirofilaria.
the place of melarsomine injections can

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 3 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 Left: Aedes albopictus mosquito, a potential vector for Dirofilariasis; Center: Dirofilarias
and Right: Picture of affected dog.

References al. (2013). Treatment of Dirofilaria

Arnold P., Deplazes P., Ruckstuhl H., and repens microfilariae-mia with a
Flückiger M. (1994).Case report: combination of Doxycycline hyclate
dirofilariasis in a dog. Schweiz Arch and Ivermectin. Vet Parasitol. 178
Tierheilkd.;136(8):265-9. (May 21, 2013).
Bazzocchi C., Mortarino M., Grandi G., et Hoch H. and Strickland K.(2008).Canine
al. (2008).Combined Ivermectin and and feline dirofilariasis: prophylaxis,
Doxycycline treatment has treatment, and complications of
microfilaricidal and adulticidal treatment. Compend Contin Educ
activity against Dirofilaria immitis in Vet.: 30(3):146-51.
experimentally infected dogs. Int. J. Kramer L., Grandi G., Leoni M., et al.
Parasitol. 38(12):1401-10. (2008). Wolbachia and its influence
Colby K.N., Levy J.K., Dunn K.F. et al. Dirofilaria immitis infection. Vet
(2011). Diagnostic, treatment and Parasitol.158(3):191-5.
prevention protocols for canine Levy J.K., Lappin M.R., Glaser A.L. et al.,
heartworm infection in animal (2011). Prevalence of infectious
sheltring agencies. Vet. Parasitol. diseases in Cats and Dogs rescued
176(4):333-341. following Hurricane Katrina.
Giannelli A., Ramos R.A., Traversa D., et JAVMA; 238(3):311-317.
*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 4 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 VERTEBRAL HEART SCALE SCORE OF MONGREL DOGS
Mukesh Srivastava, R.P. Pandey, Ashish Srivastava, Deepesh Kumar, S. Purohit
and V. Malik
Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry
DUVASU, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh (India).
[Received: 23.2.2014; Accepted: 08.6.2014]

Nineteen mature healthy mongrel dogs with mean age of 2.6 years underwent lateral thoracic
radiography for evaluation of Vertebral Heart Score (VHS). The long axis of the heart was measured from the
ventral border of the left main stem bronchus to the cardiac apex and short axis was measured at the widest point
of the cardiac image on a line perpendicular to the long axis at the level of the caudal vena cava. Long and short
axis measurements were compared to the vertebrae starting at the cranial edge of T4 to caudally. Result expressed
in units of vertebral lengths was obtained for each axis and the two numbers were then added together to give the
value of the VHS. The vertebral heart score in clinically healthy native dogs was 10.13 ± 0.18 vertebrae with a
range of 8.9 to 11.5 vertebrae. The mean ± SE of short axes were 4.57 ± 0.10 vertebrae and of long axes were 5.55
± 0.09 vertebrae. Significant difference was not observed in male and female dogs in relation to VHS,
longitudinal axis and short axis.
Keywords: Cardiomegaly, Mongrel dogs, Thoracic radiography, Vertebral Heart Score.

Introduction important to consider whenever the heart is

Cardiomegaly as a consistent sign evaluated (Hansson, 2005). Lamb et al.,
of heart disease can be seen in cases of (2001) have documented the VHS score for
hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy various breeds like Doberman (10 ±0.6),
(Litster and Buchanan, 2000). Thoracic German shepherd (9.7 ± 0.7), Cavalier
radiography is an integral part of the King Charles spaniel (10.6 ± 0.5), Labrador
diagnosis and management of cardiac retriever (10.8 ± 0.6) and Boxer (11.6 ±
disease (Root and Bahr, 2002). Studies 0.8). Lamb et al. (2001) suggested the use
using planimetry and various cardiothoracic of breed-specific VHS values to have a
ratios have been reported, a guideline of 2.5 high specificity for normal heart size. VHS
to 3.5 intercostal spaces for dogs was score can be used to assess progressive
introduced but limitations of this method cardiomegaly (Buchanan and Bucheler,
are variations of the heart size and shape, 1995), pacing induce experimental heart
conformation of the thorax, phase of failure (Nakayama et al., 2001),
respiration, superimposition of ribs, and hypoadrenocorticism (Melian et al., 1999).
imprecise measurement points (Lamb and Large populations of mongrel dogs are still
Boswood, 2002). Method for measuring the used as companion animals in India,
canine cardiac silhouette that involves therefore, the present study was planned to
measuring its long and short axes in a establish the reference range of VHS in
lateral radiograph and comparing the sum mongrel dog.
of these measurements to the mid thoracic
vertebral bodies, to produce a unitless Materials and methods
index called the vertebral heart (VHS) Ten males and nine females
score is described by Buchanan and healthy mongrel dogs (19), presented for
Bucheler (1995) as there is good relations diseases other than cardiovascular system
were known to exist between body length with mean age 2.6 years were selected for
and heart weight. As there are various the study after clinical (physical
factors that influence the VHS examination and auscultation) and
measurement, interbreed differences in laboratory evaluation (haemato-
regards to normal heart size and shape is biochemical and urinalysis). Left lateral

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 5 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

thoracic radiographs were taken during Measurements were recorded in
inspiration as suggested by Gulanber et al., centimeters for statistical analyses. Long
(2005). The radiographs were taken in least and short axis measurements were
stress condition without use of any compared to the vertebrae starting at the
anesthetic agents. The long axis of the cranial edge of T4 to caudally and result
heart, reflecting the combined size of the expressed in units of vertebral lengths was
left atrium and left ventricle was measured obtained for each axis (fig-1). The
from the ventral border of the left main measurements of the long and short axes
stem bronchus to the cardiac apex. The were recorded in terms of the numbers of
short axis was measured at the widest point vertebrae covered and the two numbers
of the cardiac image on a line perpendicular were then added together to give the value
to the long axis at the level of the caudal of the VHS and data are expressed as mean
vena cava (Buchanan and Bucheler, 1995). ± SE.

Fig-1 The short axis measurement of the cardiac silhouette (A) and the long axis measurement
(B) gives VHS on a lateral thoracic radiograph.

Results 0.13 vertebrae. The short axis in bitches

The vertebral heart score in was 4.63 ± 0.12; while in dogs was 4.51 ±
clinically healthy native dogs was 10.13 ± 0.15 vertebrae. VHS in females was 10.14
0.18 vertebrae. Distribution of VHS range ± 0.24 and in males was 10.12 ± 0.26
was 8.9 to 11.5 vertebrae. The Mean ± SE (table-1). Data were analyzed through SAS
of short axes were 4.57 ± 0.10 vertebrae enterprise guide version 4.4 and no
and of long axes were 5.55 ± 0.09 significant difference between males and
vertebrae. The longitudinal axis in bitches females was found in relation to long axis,
was 5.61± 0.13, while in dogs was 5.61± short axis and Vertebral heart Score.

Table-1 (Mean ± SE) Vertebral heart score (VHS) and various axis in mongrel dogs

Parameters Long axis Short axis VHS

Male (N=10) 5.61± 0.13 NS 4.51 ± 0.15 NS 10.12 ± 0.26 NS
Female(N=9) 5.51 ± 0.13NS 4.63 ± 0.12NS 10.14 ± 0.24 NS
Total (N=19) 5.55 ± 0.09 4.57 ± 0.10 10.13 ± 0.18

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 6 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

Discussion suggested that in lateral radiography if X-
The recognition of interbreed ray beams and thorax are not exactly
variations of cardiac dimensions has led to vertical on each other, VHS will be
the development of breed-specific ranges changed and this fact should be taken into
for echocardiography in dogs (Nakayama et consideration while interpretating
al., 2001), in the same direction Lamb et radiograph. In the present study the
al., (2001) published breed-specific VHS radiographs were taken and evaluated in the
ranges for some popular breeds of dogs like standard position to rectify the positional
Doberman Labrador retriever and Boxer variation in VHS. Besides shape and size of
etc. Mongrel dogs are not a registered breed heart, thoracic radiography can be used to
in our country, and there is no reference get the status regarding pulmonary
range for such parameters. In present study circulation and amount of pulmonary
the range of VHS for native dogs was 10.09 edema (Richard et al., 2007).
± 0.76 vertebrae, which is found closer to On the basis of above study it was
Labrador retriever having VHS score of concluded that cardiomegaly can be easily
10.8 ± 0.6 vertebrae (Lamb et al., 2001), determined on the basis on left lateral
but was slightly above than VHS in initial thoracic radiography using VHS
study of Buchanan and Bucheler, (1995), application. Although the VHS range have
who reported the mean VHS of 9.7 ± 0.5 been reported by various researcher for
vertebrae. Distribution of VHS range was some popular breeds of dog for clinical
8.9 to 11.5 vertebrae; this finding was in purpose, still most of the breeds are not
agreement with Buchanan and Bucheler, standardized in this relation. Cardiac
(1995), who reported a clinical range of 8.5 measurements are likely to be useful only
to 10.5 vertebrae. VHS range of present when the normal range is relatively narrow.
study was indicative of great variation in Thoracic radiography is proved integral
the VHS score. More researches in this part of the diagnosis and therapeutic
direction are required as cardiac evaluation of cardiac disease. Studies using
measurements are likely to be useful only planimetry and various cardiothoracic
when the normal range is relatively narrow ratios have been reported but limitations of
(Lamb et al., 2000). In the present study this method must be recognized.
sex dependant VHS score was non-
significant and may be used for diagnosis References
of cardiomegaly in dogs. Similar Litster, A. and Buchanan, J.W.(2000).
observations were reported in dogs by Vertebral scale system to measure
Bavegems et al., (2005). However, Sleeper heart size in radiographs of cats. J.
and Buchanan (2001) recommended that Am. Vet. Med.Assoc.,216:210-214.
sex should be taken into account when Root, C.R. and Bahr, R.J.(2002). The heart
evaluating the possibility of cardiomegaly and great vessels in Textbook of
on the basis of the VHS. VHS values for diagnostic veterinary radiology,
heart size can be affected by several factors Thrall DE (ed) 4 edition, W.B.
like individual variations in the actual heart Saunders Company, Philadelphia.
size, vertebral length between breeds of pp: 402-419.
dog need to be considered, as well as the Lamb, C.R. and Boswood, A.(2002). Role
presence of narrowed disc spaces. Hansson of survey radiography in diagnosing
et al., (2005) have suggested the possibility canine cardiac disease. Comp. Cont.
of inter individual variation in Ed. Prac. Vet., 24: 316-326.
measurement. Gulanber et al., (2005) Buchanan, J.W. and Bucheler, J.(1995).
suggested one positional fault as a cause of Vertebral scale system to measure
wrong interpretation of VHS, they canine heart size in radiographs. J.
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 7 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 Am.Vet.Med. Assoc., 206:194-199. Gulanber, E.G. and Ramazan, G.(2005).
Hansson, K., Haggstrom, J., Kvart, C. and Vertebral Scale System to Measure
Lord, P.(2005). Interobserver Heart Size in Thoracic Radiographs
variability of vertebral heart size of Turkish Shepherd (Kangal)
measurements in dogs with normal Dogs. Turk J Vet Anim Sci. 2005:
and enlarged hearts. Vet. 29723-726.
Radiol.Ultrasound. 46: 122-30. Lamb, C.R., Tyler, M., Boswood, A.,
Lamb, C.R., Wilkeley, H. and Boswood, Skelly, B.J. and Cain, M.(2000).
A.(2001). Use of breed-specific Assessment of the value of the vert
ranges for the vertebral heart scale -ebral heart scale in the rdiographic
as an aid to the radiographic diagnosis of cardiac disease in dogs
diagnosis of cardiac disease in Veterinary Record.146:687-690.
dogs.Vet. Rec., 148: 707–711. Bavegems, V., Van Caelenberg, A., and
Nakayama, H., Nakayama, T. and Hamlin, Duchateau, L. (2005). Vertebral
R.L.(2001). Correlation of cardiac heart size ranges specific for
enlargement as assessed by whippets. Vet. Radiol. Ultrasound.;
vertebral heart size and 46, 5: 400-403.
echocardiographic and Sleeper, M.M. and Buchanan, J.W.(2001).
electrocardiographic findings in Vertebral scale system to measure
dogs with evolving cardiomegaly heart size in growing puppies. J.
due to rapid ventricular pacing. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 219: 57-59.
Vet. Intern. Med. 15: 217–221. Richard, Woolley., Paul, Smith. and Elizab
Melian, C., Stefenacci, J. and Peterson, -eth Munro. (2007). Effects of
M.(1999). Radiographic findings in Treatment Type on Vertebral Heart
dogs with naturally occurring Size in dogs with Myxomatous
primary hypoadrenocorticism. J Am Mitral Valve Disease. Intern J Appl
Anim Hosp Assoc., 35:208-212. Res. Vet. Med. 5 (1): 43-48.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 8 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF OTITIS EXTERNA
IN DOGS
Chandan Lodh, Suprabha Choudhury and Surojit Das
Department of Veterinary Medicine, Ethics and Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal
Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata-700037. West Bengal.
[Received: 24.2.2014; Accepted: 07.6.2014]

Otitis externa is an acute or chronic microbiological and therapeutic evalution

inflammation of external ear, are relatively of canine otitis.
common canine diseases, occurring in
approximately 10 to 20% of the dogs (Scott Materials and Methods
et al.,2001). Dogs with long pendulus ear A total number of 82 dogs from
are most commonly affected with otitis both genders from different breeds and
externa (August,1988). A number of from 1yr to 10 years old, all with clinical
predisposing factor are identified such as signs specific for otitis externa were
anatomical ear cannel stenosis, hair in the included for the presence study. Clinical
ear cannel, pendulous ears, increased cases were presented with unilateral or
humidity moisture retention, washing bilateral droppings of ears, head shaking,
injury during manipulation foreign bodies, pruritis, pain, when palpated erythematic
prolong antibiotic treatment, obstructive and swelling of the ear shoot or ear cannel
disease, systemic immune suppressive with increased amount of serumin like wax
condition (Rosser, 2004). Other causes material. The study was carried out in the
include bacteria, yeast as well as department of Veterinary Medicine, Ethics
progressing pathological alteration. Otitis and Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary
can cause considerable pain, distress and and Animal Sciences, West Bengal
discomfort to the affected dogs. The University of Animal and Fishery Sciences,
difficulty in treating otitis is due to the Kolkata-37. And the sample was collected
complexity and multiple etiological agents from the suspected clinical cases presented
and emergence of drug resistance (Kumar in the clinics, Belgachia, Teaching
et al., 2002). Relax or recurrence of ear Veterinary Clinical Complex, West Bengal
infection is often noticed in otitic dogs even University of Animal and Fishery Sciences,
with symptomatic treatment. Various private clinics and individual
Microorganisms are considered households of Kolkata, West Bengal.
perpetuating as they are responsible for the Samples were cultivated in selected
aggravation of the otitis. Common agar media, blood agar containing 5%
organism are isolated from dogs with otitis sheep blood and Mac Konkeys agar, and
externa include Staphylococcus spp., other standard media for isolation and
Pseudomonas spp., E. coli., Pasteurella identification of bacteria from suspected
spp., Streptococcus spp. (August,1988). animal using standard technique
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is gram negative (cruickshank, 1975). Cultures were
glucose non fermented aerobic bacteria. incubated aerobically for 24 to 28 hours at
Pseudomonas aeruginosa either alone or 37°C. After incubation the bacteria were
combination with other micro organism is identified on the basis of cultural
the dominating otitis externa. morphological and biochemical
The purpose of the present study characteristics (Quinn et al., 1994). The
was to determine the clinical, isolates were regarded as significant in
causing the condition if there was serious
growth of single bacterial species in a
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 9 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
mixture and a moderate growth in a pure Results and Discussion
culture. The bacterial isolates to Out of 40 cases subjected to the
antimicrobial drugs were tested by the disc cultural examination showed gram negative
diffusion methods and the results were bacteria 52.5% (21 cases) and gram
interpreted by the three score system of positive 32.5% (13 cases) both gram
(Bauer et al., 1966). negative and gram positive 12.5% (5 cases)
The invitro antibiotic sensitivity and 2 cases found mixed infection of
test was done using with the antibiotics fungus along with bacteria. The isolates
Ampicillin (10 µg), Steptomycin (10 µg), included Staphylococcus Spp,
Lincomycin (15 µg), Gentamycin (10 µg), Streptococcus Spp, Pseudomonas
Tobramycin (10 µg), Doxycyclin (30 µg), aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Proteus
Enrofloxacin (5 µg), PolymyxinB (10 µg), Spp. and Bacillus Spp. (Table: 2). The
Chlorumphenical (30 µg), Ciprofloxacin microorganism isolated from ear swab were
(50 µg), Ofloxacin (10 µg), Amoxicillin in accordance with the findings of Chris
clavulanic (30 µg). Out of 82 clinical cases Little, 1996 and Senthil kumar et al., 2010.
investigated in the study total number of 40 The highest prevalence of Pseudomonas
dogs showed positive for bacterial Spp. Found in chronic otitic externa cases
infection. For therapeutic evaluation all the in this studies was in accordance with the
positive dogs were divided into 4 equal findings of Kumar, 2002, Vikas et al.,
groups, each group comprising 10 animals 2003, Petrov et al., 2013 who also reported
and treatment was done for a period of 7 that 40% of dogs with otitis have infection
days after cleaning the affected ears with with Pseudomonas Spp.
H2O2 (Hydrogen peroxide). The dogs of The antibiogram of the gram
group-1 treated with Enrofloxacin 5 mg/kg. negative bacteria isolates revealed that
b. wt. orally once daily along with ciprofloxacin, Enrofloxacin, Oflaxacin and
wokazole ear lotion topically. Group-II Polymixin B were the highly sensitive
animals were treated with Cifran® ear drop drug. (Table : 1) This findinings was
along with Cifran tablet at the dose rate of corroborated with the findings of Kumar,
250 mg/ animal twice daily orally. Group 2002, Vikas et al., 2003 and Senthil kumar
III were treated with Ofloxacin ear drop et al., 2010. Gram positive bacteria isolated
and Ofloxacin tablet 400 mg orally twice in this study found to be sensitive to
daily. Group-IV animals were treated with Amoxycillin-clavulanic acid, followed by
Tobramycin ear drop and along with Ciprofloxacin and Doxycycline. (Table: 3)
Ketoconazole tablet at the dose rate of 10 These findings are in close agreement with
mg/ kg b. wt. The results were analyzed the findings of Bywater et al., 1985 and
employing chi square test (Snedecor and Senthil kumar et al., 2010.
Cochran 1969).

Table 1 : Results of antibiotic susceptibility testing of six most common bacterial isolates from
dog with otitis externa
Antibiotic Staphylococcus Streptococcus Pseudomonas Escherichia Proteus Bacillus
Spp. Spp. aeruginosa coli Spp. Spp.
Enrofloxacin 74% 10% 63% 85% 76% 25%
Ampicillin 66% 92% 5% 6% 5% 7%
Gentamycin 80% 88% 98% 81% 70% 26%
Tobramycin 72% 77% 82% 92% 81% 35%
Doxycycline 51% 68% 3% 75% 20% 25%
Polymycin B 34% 4% 100% 96% 25% 26%
Chloramphenicol 60% 85% 3% 85% 25% 42%
Ciprofloxacin 70% 68% 90% 92% 82% 55%
Ofloxacin 58% 59% 82% 85% 85% 62%
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 10 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 Amoxicillin- 90% 92% 5% 60% 51% 25%
clavulanic acid
Table 2 : Isolation of common bacterial isolates
Antibiotics Number of cases affected Percentage
Staphylococcus Spp 8 20%
Streptococcus Spp 5 12.5%
Pseudomonas aeruginosa 26 65%
Escherichia coli 7 17.5%
Proteus Spp. 2 5%
Bacillus Spp. 3 7.5%

Table : 3 Clinical recovery of Otitic dogs after different combination of drugs therapy
Groups Group-I Group-II Group-III Group- IV
Number of animals 10 10 10 10
Number of animals recovery 7 10 7 8
Percentage of recovery 70% 100% 70% 80%

Out of 10 dogs in Gr-I animals 7 493.

dogs showed clinical recovery after 7 days Bywater, R.J., Palmer, G.H., Buswell, J.F.
of treatment. This finding in agreement and Stanton, A. (1985). Clavulanate-
with earlier observation of Lakshmi et potentiated amoxicillin activity
al.,(2010). In Gr-II, all the dogs showed invitro and bioavailability in the dog.
complete clinically recovery after 7 days of Vet Rec. 116: 33.
treatment. This finding is in close Chris Little (1996). A clinician’s approach
agreement with the findings of Lakshmi et to the investigation of Otitis externa.
al., 2010 who also reported 91% clinical In Practice, 17(1):9-16.
recovery. In Gr-III animals out of 10 dogs 7 Cruickshank, R., Dagi, J.P., Marmian, B.P.
dogs were cured with topical and oral and Swain, R.H.A. (1975), Medical
therapy with Ofloxacin. Similar microbiology, 12th edn. Vol-2,
observation is also made by Lakshmi et churchil living stone, Edinburgh,
al.,(2010). Group-IV animals showed London and New York.
clinical recovery after 7 days of treatment Kumar, A., Sing, k. and Sharma, A. (2002).
in 8 animals. The comparative efficacy of Treatment of otitis externa in dogs
different combination of drug revealed that associated with Malassezia pachyder
Ciprofloxacin topical and oral combination -matitis. Indian vet. J. 79: 727-729.
therapy was highly efficacious against Lakshmi, K., and Tirumala, D.S.(2010).
chronic otitis externa in dog compare to Therapeutic management of otitis in
other combination of drugs, used in the dogs. Indian J. Vet. Med. 30(2):
present study. This finding is in close 122-123.
agreement with the findings of Lakshmi et Petrov, V., Mihaylov, G., Tsachev, I.,
al.,(2010). Zhelev, G., Marutsov, P., Koev, K.
(2013). Otitis externa in dogs:micro
References: -biology and antimicrobial suscepti-
August, J.R.(1988). Otitis externa. A bility. Med. Vet., 164(1): 18-22.
disease of multifactorial etiology. Quinn, P.J., Carter, M.E., Markey, B.,
Vet. Clin. North Am. Small Animal. Carter, G.R. (1994). Clinical
Pract., 18: 731-742. Veterinary Microbiology, London:
Bauer, A.W., Kirby, W.M., Sherris, J.C and Wolfe/ Mosby. 237-242.
Turk, M. (1966). Antibiotic suceptibi Rosser, E.J. (2004). Causes of otitis
-lity testing by a standardized single externa. Vet. Clin. North Am. Small
disc method. Am. J. Clin. Pathol, 45: Animal. Pract., 34: 459-468.
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 11 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
Scott, D.W., Miller, W.H. and Griffin, C.E. 145-147.
(2001). Diseases of the eyelids, claws Snedecor, G.W. and Cochran, W.G. (1969).
anal sacs and ears. In: Muller and Statistical Methods. 6th edn. Oxford
Krick’s Small Animal Dermatology. and IBM Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd.,
W.B.Saunders,PA,USA. 1185-1236. Delhi.
Senthil Kumar,K., Selvaraj,P., Vairamuthu, Vikas, K., Pal, D., and Aggarwal, A. (2003)
S., Shammi, M., and Kathiresan, D. Antibiogram of microorganism
(2010). Antibiogram patterns of isolated from ears of dogs having
microbes isolated from otitis externa otitis externa. Indian vet. J. 80: 1316-
of dogs, J. Vety and Am. Sci. 6(3): 1317.

*****

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Indian Journal of Canine Practice 12 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF
CHOLANIGO-HEPATITIS WITH URSODEOXYCHOLIC
ACID IN A DOG
R.K. Bhardwaj, A.K. Gupta, J.S. Soodan and R. Singh
Division of Veterinary Medicine,
Faculty of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST(J), R.S.Pura, Jammu -181102,.
[Received: 01.2.2014; Accepted: 01.6.2014]

Cholangiohepatitis, inflammation Physiological parameters were

of the gall bladder, bile ducts and the liver, elevated; temperature- 104.5ºF, heart rate-
is usually caused by bacteria. Many 96/minute and respiration rate- 49/minute.
bacteria have been isolated by different Clinical examination revealed icteric
researchers: Enterococcus faecium (Pressel conjunctiva, sclera, buccal mucous
et al., 2005), Escherichia coli, Clostridium membrane, ventral abdominal skin and
species and a faecal Streptococcus spps pinna of ears. Skin tent test showed 8-10%
(Neill et al., 2006 and Ramery et al., 2012). dehydration. Abdominal palpation revealed
The prognosis is good if timely diagnosis tense abdomen and pain was evinced
and treatment is adopted. Treatment with behind the right costal arch. Ultrasound
fluids, antibiotics and hepato-protectant examination revealed mild distension of
drugs is generally effective. The present gall bladder with hyperechoic contents and
communications reports treatment of hypoechoic liver parenchyma around the
cholangio-hepatitis with ursodeoxycholic gall bladder and spleenomegaly. Liver
acid in a dog. function test parameters were altered.
A four year-old male Labrador Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate
dog weighing 25 kg, was presented at the amino transferase (AST), Alkaline
university clinic with history of lethargy, phosphatase (ALP), γ -glutamyl transferase
fever, anorexia, vomition, abdominal (GGT), Total bilirubin, Direct and Indirect
discomfort and icterus from 15-days. bilirubin were increased above the normal
range (Table-1).
Table-1: Biochemical parameters of cholangio-hepatitis suffering dog following treatment
S.No Parameters Number of days of treatement
. 1 day 7th day 21st day 30th day.
st

1 ALT(U/L) 281 177 104 71

2 AST(U/L) 428 284 156 62
3 ALP (U/L) 2340 1248 893 314
4 GGT(U/L) 257 169 107 29
5 T.Bilirubin (mg/dl) 8.97 6.78 4.85 2.75
6 Direct bilirubin (mg/dl) 7.39 5.78 3.54 1.45
7 Indirect bilirubin(mg/dl) 1.58 1.00 1.31 1.30
8 Total protein (g/dl) 8.72 9.36 8.99 8.76
9 Albumin (g/dl) 1.95 2.43 2.46 2.89
10 Globulins (g/dl) 6.77 6.93 6.53 5.87

Dog was diagnosed to be suffering parameters. Increase in the values of ALT,

from infectious cholangio-hepatitis on the AST, ALP, GGT, total bilirubin and
basis of history, clinical signs, ultrasound hyperglobulinemia associated with
findings and hemato-biochemical leukocyosis and neutrophilia were
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 13 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
indicative of bacterial cholangio-hepatitis, After a week of treatment animal
However, definitive diagnosis required showed clinical improvement in term of
collection and culture of liver and bile reduced discoloration of mucous
which was not done in the present case. membranes, disappearance of clinical signs
Neill et al., (2006) also reported that four like vomition, abdominal discomfort and
dogs suffering from bacterial regaining of appetite. Antibiotic
cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis had history (Ampicillin) was continued orally for one
of leukocytosis or neutrophilia associated month along with Tab. Sporolac
with increased total bilirubin, ALT and (Lactobacillius sporogens) to prevent
ALP. Dog was treated with Inj. Dextrose suprainfections in intestinal tract. Total
(10%), Inj. DNS, Inj. Roscillin (Ampicillin) leukocyte count decreased and came to
@ 20 mg/kg b.wt, Inj. Aciloc (Ranitidine) normal by 21st day of treatment, however
@ 0.5 mg/kg b.wt Inj. Eldervit-12 (Vitamin animal became anemic with treatment and
B1, B6, B12 & C) I/V twice daily for seven values of Hb, PCV, TEC and platelets
days. Suspension Silybon (Silymarin)-1tsf count decreased by 21st day and then
twice daily and Tab. Udiliv showed increment on 30th day. Values of
(ursodeoxycholic acid) @ 15 mg/kg once ALT, AST, ALP, GGT and total bilirubin
daily were given orally for 30 days. decreased significantly and reach near to
normal level by 30th day of treatment.
Table-2:Hematological parameters of cholangio-hepatitis suffering dog following
treatment
S.No Parameters Number of days of treatement
. 1st day 7th day 21st day 30th day.
1 Hemoglobin (g/dl) 11.2 10.10 8.60 9.50
2 PCV (%) 35.0 34.00 29.00 31.00
6
3 TEC × 10 /µl 5.40 5.20 4.00 4.25
3
4 TLC × 10 /µl 19.43 12.54 8.57 7.45
5 Platelets 103/µl 156 115 850 690
6 Differential Leucocytes Count (%)
6(a) Neutophils 78 73 68 70
6(b) Lymphocytes 19 22 29 28
6(c) Monocytes 1 3 2 1
6(d) Eosinophils 1 2 1 1
6(e) Basophils - - - -

Symptoms like, anorexia, vomition, cholestasis and hepatitis. Fuentealba et al.,

abdominal discomfort and icterus seen in (1997) reported increase in ALP, ALT,
the present case were also reported by AST, and SDH activity, with variable
Forrester et al., (1992) in a dog suffering values of GGT and total bilirubin in dogs
cholangio-hepatitis. However, fever in suffering from cholangio-hepatitis. Pillai et
addition to anorexia, vomition and icterus al., (2009) also reported increase in ALT,
in the present case was in agreement with ALP and bilirubin in a dog suffering from
the findings of Neill et al., (2006). Increase cholangio-hepatitis.
in the ALP and GGT associated with liver Ultrasound findings in the present
diseases is secondary to varying degree of case are in agreement with Pillai et al.,
cholestasis. In the present case elevated (2009). However, Neill et al., (2006)
levels of ALP, ALT, AST, GGT and total reported non-specific ultrasound findings in
bilirubin are attributed to extra hepatic cholangio-hepatitis in dogs. Treatment of

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 14 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

cholangio-hepatitis with fluids, antibiotics R.L. (1992)..J .Am. Vet. Med.
and hepato-protectant drugs has been Assoc.200:1704.
indicated by many scientists. Ampicillin, Fuentealba, C., Guest, S., Haywood, S. and
semisynthetic penicillin is safest and good Horney, B. (1997). Chronic hepatitis:
choice of antibiotic for hepatic diseases. a retrospective study in 34 dogs. Can.
Ursodeoxycholic acid derived originally Vet. J. 38: 365.
from bile of black bear, which later Neill, E. J.O., Day, M.J., Hall, E.J., Holden,
commercialized as a synthetic product is D.J., Murphy, K.F., Barr, F.J and
used to treat cholangio-hepatitis and it Pearson, G.R. (2006) Bacterial
competitively replaces endogenous bile cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis with or
acids that accumulate in cholestatic hepatic without concurrent cholecystitis in
diseases and prevent the cell membrane four dogs.J.Small Ani. Pract. 47:325.
damage, induction of apoptosis and Pillai, U. N., Jabina, M.P., Pandian, S. J.
necrosis of liver. It is also used as a V., Premni, E and Baby, P.G. (2009).
powerful cholerectic agent to treat sludged Ursodexycholic acid treatment of
bile and cholelithiasis. Bellentani et al., cholangitis in a dog. Indian Vet. J.
(1993) and Pillai et al., (2009) reported that 86:506
the use of ursodeoxycholic acid results in Pressel, M.A., Fox, L.E., Apley, M.D. and
decrease of hepatic enzymes in patient with Simutis, F.Jhttp://www.sciencedirect.
chronic liver disease and improves liver com/science/article/pii/S1098612X
histology in the patients with primary 05000240-aff3. (2005). Vancomycin
biliary cirrhosis. for multidrugresistant Enterococcus
faecium cholangiohepatitis in a cat.
References J.Feline and Canine Surgery.7:317.
Bellentani, S., Podda, M., Tiribelli, C., Ramery, E., Papakonstantinou, S., Pinilla,
Callea, F.and Marazzi, M. (1993). M., McAllister, H., Jahns, H.,
Ursodiol in the long-term treatment Gallagher,B and O’Brien, P.J (2012)
of chronic hepatitis: a double-blind Bacterial cholangiohepatitis in a dog.
multicenter clinical trial. J. Hepatol. Can. Vet. J.53:423–425
19:459. Sparkes, A.H. (2003). Feline hepatic diseas
Forrester, S. G., Rogers, K.S. and Relford, -es where are we now? 28th World
congress of WSAVA, Thailand.

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 15 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

RENAL FAILURE – A CLINICAL REPORT OF THREE CASES
Lalita Kumari1 and S. Haque2
1
PG research scholar and 2Professor & H.O.D., Department of Veterinary Medicine, Ranchi Veterinary
College, B.A.U., Ranchi-834006.
[Received: 26.2.2014; Accepted: 04.6.2014]

Introduction Biochemical examination showed BUN

Renal failure have always remain a level >100mg/dl and Serum creatinine level
major area of concern for clinicians of both > 3.0mg/dl. Ultrasonographic observation
Human and animal practice. Incidence of revealed hyperechoic kidney comparable to
kidney failure in dogs is increasing day by liver in 2 cases and no clear-cut
day with the changing life style of today’s demarcation in cortex and medulla was
world. Acute renal failure is defined as an noticed in the other dog. On Urine analysis
acute decrease in renal function, resulting proteinuria, dark colour urine and presence
in a lack of excretion of nitrogenous waste of cast cells was observed in all the 3 dogs.
(urea and creatinine ) and leading to
increase in serum creatinine above the Treatment given
refrence range with no evidence of All the renal failure dogs were
chronicity (Langston, 2010). When kidney treated with Nefroliv capsule (marketed by
damage occurs, body becomes unable to Indian Herbs, Saharan Pur) @ 2 capsules
get rid of excess urine and wastes from p.o., Ringer lactate @ 15ml/kg b.wt. i.v.,
the body and blood electrolytes (such as Dextrose 5% @ 15ml/kg b.wt. i.v., Rantac
potassium and magnesium) elevated @ 0.5mg/kg b.wt. im, Ondem 0.3mg/kg
(Gaikwad et al.,2012). Kidney failure not b.wt. i.v., Inimox forte @ 300mg i.m and
only has significant morbidity, but a high also Peritoneal dialysis was done daily until
mortality rate (Javaid et al., 2012). Serum creatinine and BUN level returned
Mortality of dogs due to renal failure in to normal. Haemato-Biochemical,Urine
Ranchi has been a problem for quite a long analysis and Ultrasonographic evaluation
time. A considerably large number of cases were performed on day 0, 3, 9 and 15
suffering from renal failure are regularly of observation.
brought and admitted to Ranchi Veterinary
College Hospital, Kanke, Ranchi for Result and Discussion
treatment. In all the 3 cases subnormal
temperature, elevated pulse rate and
Case History and Observation respiratory rate returned to normal after
A total of 3 clinical cases between treatment which is in accordance to
2-5 years were presented at Clinical Mugford et.al. (2013), Kumar et al. (2011),
complex of Ranchi Veterinary College Ross (2006), Cowgill and Francy (2006).
Hospital, Kanke, Ranchi for treatment with Higher mean values of Hb was observed in
complaint of anorexia, weakness and all the ARF dogs before treatment due to
vomiting. On detailed examination, dogs dehydration and haemoconcentration which
were found to have subnormal temperature, in turn may be due to vomiting, diarrhoea
elevated pulse rate and respiratory rate, and possibly haemorrhage also observed by
dehydration and uremic breath. Haemato- Mugford et.al. (2013), Stanley and
Biochemical, Urine analysis and Langston (2008), Ross (2006). Neutrophilia
Ultrasonographic examination revealed and lymphopaenia were consistent findings.
dogs suffering from acute renal failure. Leucocytosis was observed before
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 16 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
treatment in renal failure cases due to day of treatment. Increase in BUN level
inflammation (Mugford et. al., 2013 and was observed on 0 day of observation
Ross, 2006) and typical stress reaction of which significantly decreased as
uremia(Coles, 1986). TLC returned to treatment
normal after treatment. The serum
creatinine level decreased gradually in
all the three dogs on 3rd, 9th and 15th

Physical and Haemato-biochemical parameters in Dogs with ARF.

DOG DAY 0 DAY 3RD DAY 9TH DAY 15TH
TEMPERATURE (ºF)
1 98.20 99.60 100.80 101.20
2 99.40 99.80 100.60 101.00
3 98.00 99.20 100.40 101.60
PULSE RATE ( /min)
1 107 99 93 87
2 103 96 90 89
3 106 100 91 88
RESPIRATORY RATE (/min)
1 28 26 26 21
2 26 24 24 22
3 27 23 22 20
HAEMOGLOBIN ( gm%)
1 16.80 11.20 13.60 13.80
2 14.20 13.20 13.40 13.40
3 15.00 12.40 13.60 14.00
TOTAL LEUCOCYTE COUNT (x103/µl)
1 31.60 20.40 14.20 11.60
2 20.00 11.20 9.10 7.20
3 21.00 10.60 8.40 7.60
BUN (mg/dl)
1 218.50 72.43 13.33 9.02
2 104.20 45.86 9.58 8.10
3 132.00 51.40 11.24 8.61
SERUM CREATININE (mg/dl)
1 11.10 7.65 3.43 1.46
2 3.24 2.33 1.42 0.84
3 5.88 4.97 1.87 0.85

Nefroliv is a polyherbal 14.8% /dialysis cycle. Hence, it can be

formulation in which its constituents concluded that synergistic effect of both
especially B. diffusa, C. nurvala, T. Nefroliv and Peritoneal Dialysis results into
terrestris, B. ligulata and S. nigrum have significantly greater decrease in serum
diuretic, anti-inflammatory and BUN level.
nephroprotective effects (Nandy and
Pradhan, 2006 and Dey et. al., 2004) that Summary
help in correction of damaged renal tubular ARF dogs treated with Nefroliv +
cells of dogs and enhancing functioning of Peritoneal dialysis + Fluid therapy showed
kidney. good and faster recovery which is very
Peritoneal dialysis further important in acute renal failure cases so
decreases serum BUN levels. Scrutu et al., that dogs
(2008) reported decrease of BUN was

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 17 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

could be recovered in initiation phase of Antioxidants. 2(1): 2-5.
renal failure and do not enter into chronic Kumar, M., Haque, S. and Sharma, A. K.
stage. Also there is rapid decline in renal (2011). Continuous Ambulatory
function over a period of hours to days so Peritoneal Dialysis in cases of Acute
faster recovery is a great challenge in Renal Failure in Dogs. The Indian
treatment of renal failure dogs. Veterinary Journal. 88(10): 32-34.
Langston, C. (2010) Acute uremia. InTextb-
Refrences ook of Veterinary Internal Medicne.7th
Coles, E. H. (1986). Veterinary Clinical edn. Eds S. J. Ettinger, E. C. Feldman.
Pathology. 4th edn. W. B. Saunders Saunders Elsevier. pp 1969-1985.
Company, Philadelphia. Mugford, A., Li, R. and Humm, K. (2013).
Cowgwill, L. D. and Francy, T. (2005). Acute kidney injury in dogs and cats1.
Acute uremia. In: Text Book of Pathogenesis and diagnosis. In Practice.
Veterinary internal medicine: Disease of 35 : 253-264.
the Dog and Cat, 6th ed. (eds.Stephen J. Nandy, K. and Pradhan, N. R. (2006). Clini-
Ettinger and Edward C. Feldman), W.B. cal and haemato-biochemical changes in
Saunder’s Company, Philadelphia, pp. gentamicin induced renal failure in dogs
1731-1751. and its therapeutic management. Indian
Dey, P. C., Nath, B., Nayak, D. C. and J. Vet. Med. 26(1): 16-21.
Mukherjee, S. K. (2004). Clinical asses- Ross, L. A. (2006) Acute Renal Failure.
sment of NephTone for renal disorders Standards of Care : Emergency And
in dogs. Phytomedica, 5: 125-128. Critical Care Medicine, 8(4): 1-9.
Gaikwad, K., Dagle, P., Choughule, P., Scurtu I., Giurgiu, G., Mircean, M.,
Joshi, Y. M. and Kadam, V. (2012). A Livitchi, L. and Niculae, M. (2008).
review on some nephroprotective Peritoneal dialysis in dogs and cats.
medicinal plants. International Journal Buletin USAMV Veterinary Medicine.
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and 65(2): 369.
Research. 3(8): 2451-2454. Stanley, S. W. and Langston, C. E (2008)
Javaid, R., Aslam, M., Nizami, Q. & Hemodialysis in a dog with acute renal
Javaid, R. (2012). Role of Antioxidant failure from currant toxicity. Can Vet J,
Herbal Drugs in Renal Disorders : An 49:63–66.
Overview. Free radicals and

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 18 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 NEPHROTIC SYNDROME IN A SIAMESE CAT

A.K. Srivastava and B. Syed

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia.
[Received: 02.7.2013; Accepted: 03.1.2014]

Nephrotic syndrome is a relatively infectiousperitonitis;Renal lymphosarcoma;

rare end-stage renal disease of cats, defined Potassium depletion nephropathy.
as the combination of four hallmark clinical Nephrotic syndrome is a set of above
signs: mentioned clinical signs that may develop
1) significant protein loss in urine as a secondary to the above effects of
(proteinuria) glomerular injury.
2) low serum albumin (hypoalbuminemia) A 5year old castrated male Siamese
3) edema and/or other abnormal fluid cat was brought to the Faculty Clinics with
accumulation (Ascites) the history of subcutaneous oedema of face,
4) elevated blood cholesterol level body and hind legs (Fig.1), vomition and
(hyperlipidemia, particularly anorexia since a week. The cat was
hypercholester-olemia) depressed, emaciated and inactive and had
The average age of onset in cats dry and lustreless coat, regular and
varies, but middle-aged and old cats are predominantly costal respiration, pendulous
most commonly affected. In most cases, a abdomen, polyuria, pale mucous
proliferative glomerulonephritis is an membrane, slightly sunken eye balls with
underlying cause of nephrotic syndrome dry cornea, and regular, hard and
(Bishop S.A. et al., 1992). There appears to incompressible pulse. Examination of heart
a sex predilection in cats with 75% of cases revealed decrease in point of maximum
occurring in males. impulse and mild heart sounds, but no
Animals with proteinuria, adventitious heart sounds. Lungs were
hypoalbuminemia, and hyperlipidemia almost normal. Palpation and percussion of
without edema or ascites are considered to abdomen indicated presence of fluid thrill.
have a nephrotic tendency. Dogs and cats Radiograph of Chest and abdomen showed
are less likely to develop overt dependent important nephroitic lesions (Fig.2). Urine
edema or ascites as compared with human analysis revealed massive proteinuria (0.7
beings. Development of edema or ascites g/dl) and epithelial casts. There was
requires sodium retention leading to fluid normocytic anaemia with normal
overload in addition to the leucogram. Biochemical analysis of
hypoalbuminemia; it may be that domestic blood/serum indicated elevated blood urea
species are less prone to sodium retention (160 mg/dl) and serum creatinine level (7.5
than are humans. It should be remembered mg/dl), hypoalbuminaemia (2.1 g/dl) and
that nephrotic tendency results from a loss normal levels of total serum protein (6.7
of glomerular permselectivity not g/dl) and cholesterol (175 mg/dl).
glomerular permeability. Azotemia is not a The Cat was treated with Ampicillin 6
requisite clinical component of nephrotic mg/kg bid, 5% Dextrose @25mg/kg iv
tendency (Katherine M. James, 1998). daily, Vitamin – E 100 IU per day, B-
Common causes of nephrotic syndro- Complex 0.5 ml i/m daily and Furosemide
me in cats include: Glomerulonephritis 2 mg/kg daily were given for a weak. For
(White J.D. et al.,2008 and Cavana P. et proteinuria and Hypertension Enalapril @
al.,2008); Amyloidosis; Chronic interstitial 0.1 - 0.5 mg/kg q 24 hrs was administered.
nephritis (Bishop S.A. et al.,1992a); Feline For Hypercoagulability treatment, Aspirin

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 19 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

0.5 mg/kg (q 72 hrs) was also administered. and DiBartola S.P.(1995). The cat could
Dietary sodium restriction and high-quality, not be saved even after all efforts and died
restricted-quantity protein diets were on 10th day.
recommended as referred by Grauer G.F.

Fig.1:The classic appearance of a nephrotic Fig.2 Radiograph of the Cat with nephrotic syndrome
Syndrome cat with facial oedema and pot-bellied appearance

Postmortem examination revealed, failure, hypertension, ascites, or edema is

about 1 litre of straw coloured fluid in the always indicated.
abdominal cavity, congested and
oedematous lungs, hard and rounded border References
liver and enlarged and brownish colour Bishop S.A. et al., (1992) Experimental
kidneys containing multiple haemorrhagic proliferative glomerulonephritis in the
areas in cortex and severe congestion at cat. J Comp Pathol 106(1):49-60.
cortico-medullary junction. The Bishop S.A. et al., (1992)a Antibody respo-
histopathological changes of membranous nse and antibody affinity maturation in
glomerulonephrit are microthrombi in cats with experimental proliferative
glomerular capillaries, haemorrhagic immune complex glomerulonephritis. J
necrosis and infarction indicates a vascular Comp Pathol 107(1):91-102.
pathology as a probable cause. Cavana P. et al., (2008) Noncongophilic
Membranous nephropathies are generally fibrillary glomerulonephritis in a cat.
associated with heavy proteinuria and Vet Pathol 45(3):347-351.
frequently an insidiously progressive Grauer G.F. and DiBartola S.P. (1995)
course leading to renal failure. Proteinuria, Glomerular Disease. In: Textbook of
presence of urinary casts, elevated blood Veterinary Internal Medicine. Ettinger
urea and serum creatinine indicated renal SJ and Feldman EF, Eds. p. 1760-1775.
failure. Katherine M. James, (1998).Proteinuria and
Very few studies of companion animal Diseases of the Glomerulus. Small Ani-
patients are published. When an mal Nephrology and Urology;June,1998
underlying disease is found, correction of White J.D. et al., (2008) Persistent haematuria
that disorder is often the most critical and proteinuria due to glomerular disease in
aspect of therapy. Unfortunately, such as related Abyssinian cats. J Feline Med Surg
underlying disorder is rarely found. 10(3):219-229.
Supportive care for patients with renal
*****
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 20 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 VACCINE FAILURE AGAINST CANINE PARVOVIRUS
INFECTIONS IN DOGS
S. Nandi1 and Manoj Kumar2
1
Principal Scientist and Incharge, 2Ph.D.Scholar, Virology Laboratory, Centre for Animal Disease
Research and Diagnosis (CADRAD), Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI),
Izatnagar, U.P. (243122), India.
[Received: 28.6.2013; Accepted: 02.1.2014]

Canine parvovirus 2 (CPV 2) has been considered to be an important pathogen of domestic and wild
canids and has spread worldwide since its emergence in 1978. It has been reported from Asia, Australia, New
Zealand, the Americas and Europe. There are two distinct parvoviruses known to infect dogs – the pathogenic
CPV-2 and CPV-1 or the minute virus of canine (MVC). The disease is characterized by two prominent clinical
forms, enteritis with vomition and diarrhea in dogs of all ages and myocarditis and subsequent heart failure in
pups of less than 3 months of age with high morbidity (100%) and frequent mortality up to 10% in adult dogs and
91% in pups. The disease condition has been complicated further due to emergence of a number of variants
namely CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c over the years and involvement of domestic and wild canines.
Vaccination is the most cost effective and ideal method to control the canine parvovirus infections in canines.
Both live attenuated and inactivated vaccines are available to control the disease in animals. Vaccines used during
the late 1970s and early 1980s were of feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) origin followed by canine-origin,
inactivated and live attenuated vaccines of CPV-2, CPV-2a and CPV-2b. High-titer, low-passage CPV vaccines
containing a canine-origin, attenuated virus are currently the vaccines of choice for use in pups of any breed. In
spite of large scale vaccination to control the disease in dogs, the disease has been reported both in vaccinated and
the unvaccinated dogs despite the progress in the field of diagnostics and immunoprophylactic agents.
Considering the enormous importance of the disease, many reasons behind the vaccine failure in canine
parvovirus infections have been discussed in this review for the benefit of the scientific fraternity, dog owners,
veterinary practitioners, students, researchers and diagnosticians which in turn help in the better and effective
management and ultimately control of the disease .
Keywords: Canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2), CPV-2a, CPV-2b, CPV-2c, Hemorrhagic
gastroenteritis, Myocarditis, Vaccination, Vaccination failure, Maternal antibodies, Inactivated
vaccine, Live attenuated vaccine.

Introduction (MVC). CPV is believed to have originated

Canine parvovirus 2, the causative as a host range variant from feline
agent of acute haemorrhagic enteritis and panleucopenia virus (FPV), include a direct
myocarditis in dogs, is one of the most mutation from FPV, a mutation from a FPV
important pathogenic viruses. It is a highly vaccine virus and the adaptation to the new
infectious and often fatal disease. CPV-2 dog host via non-domestic carnivores, like
was first recognized in 1977 and since then mink and foxes. The original type (CPV-2)
it has been well established as an enteric which emerged in the late 1970s was
pathogen of dogs throughout the world rapidly replaced by two antigenic variants,
with high morbidity (100%) and frequent CPV-2a in 1979 and CPV-2b in 1983
mortality up to 10% (Appel et al., 1978). (Parrish et al., 1985; Parrish et al., 1991).
The disease is characterized by two Further in 2000, a third type CPV-2c was
prominent clinical forms (i) enteritis with first detected in Italy and found to be
vomition and diarrhea in dogs of all ages progressively replacing other variants in
(ii) myocarditis and subsequent heart many countries of the European Union,
failure in pups of less than 3 months of age South America, North America and Asia
(Appel and Parrish, 1987). The virus was (Buonavoglia et al., 2001; Martella et al.,
named CPV-2 in order to differentiate it 2004; Nakamura et al., 2004; Decaro et al.,
from a closely related parvovirus of canine 2006, 07; Perez et al., 2007; Hong et al.,
known as CPV-1 or minute virus of canine 2007; Calderon et al., 2009; Nandi et al.,
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 21 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
2010) but Australia has been declared free Canine parvovirus belongs to the
of CPV-2c. Vaccination is the most cost genus Parvovirus and family Parvoviridae.
effective and efficient method to control the CPV has icosahedral symmetry, 25 nm in
canine parvovirus infections in dogs. Both diameter and non-enveloped with a linear,
live attenuated and inactivated CPV single stranded DNA genome of 5.2 Kb.
vaccines are available to control the The infectious capsid contains ~55 copies
disease in dogs. Current vaccinations have of VP2 and ~5 copies of the VP1 protein
helped to control the spread of this disease which contains both the VP2 sequence and
but despite being vaccinated, some dogs 143 additional N-terminal residues (Tsao et
still contract and die from parvovirus al., 1991; Xie and Chapman, 1996). VP2
infections. Further, a large pool of (64 kDa) is an NH2-terminally truncated
unvaccinated apparently healthy stray dogs form of VP1 (84 kDa) and is the major
may act as carriers without showing any component of the capsid. Elaborate loops
symptoms and become source of infection forming most of the capsid surface make up
to other susceptible dogs. In spite of great most of the functional sites of the capsid,
development in the field of virology, including those involved in receptor and
immunology, biotechnology, genetics, antibody binding (Agbandje et al., 1993;
genomics, proteomics etc. many things are Strassheim et al., 1994; Govindasamy et
still unexplored and the best way to al., 2003; Hueffer et al., 2003). The cell
control the disease. There are differences receptor for CPV is the transferrin receptor
in opinion about the efficacy of the existing (TfR), and appropriate TfR binding leads to
CPV vaccine in controlling the new cell infection followed by generation of
variants of CPV and a variety of large number of progeny virus particles
vaccination regime are adopted by the (Hueffer et al., 2003b; Parker et al., 2001).
veterinarians against the CPV infections. There are at least 5 or 6 amino acid
Some are in opinion that the current changes between the variants CPV-2a/2b
vaccine based on CPV-2 is still effective and the original CPV-2 in the VP2 capsid
against all the CPV variants (Spibey et al., proteins while the variant CPV-2a differs
2008; Larson and Schultz, 2008). Others from the variant CPV-2b only in the 426
opine that as there is no incidence of CPV- Asn-Asp within the major antigenic site of
2 outbreaks now-a-days, the vaccine strain the capsid whereas in CPV-2c it is Glu-426
(CPV-2) must be replaced by new variants (Parrish et al., 1991; Buonavoglia et al.,
of CPV-2a/2b/2c based on the prevalence 2001). The few amino acid differences in
in a particular region (Decaro et al., 2007c; CPV-2 and its variants have altered
Decaro et al., 2008). This article is aimed antigenic features of the virus and modified
to provide detailed information about the important biological properties such as the
different causes of vaccine failure and the in vivo and in vitro host ranges, the
best way to control the disease. With a interaction with the cellular receptor and
better understanding of the disease, cross the virulence (Cavalli et al., 2008).
protective activity of the different mutants
and various causes of vaccine failure, it Epidemiology of CPV
would be possible for the veterinary Canine parvovirus infection occurs
practitioners to discharge the best possible worldwide in domestic dogs and other
management and the immunoprophylactic members of the dog family. Incidence is
measures which in turn help in the higher in animal shelters, pet shops, and
prevention and the control of the CPV breeding kennels. CPV can affect dogs at
infections in dogs. any age. Severe infection is most common
Etiology in puppies between 6 weeks and 4 months
old. All breeds of dogs are susceptible. The
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 22 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
crossbreds are less susceptible in 2009; Nandi et al., 2010 a, b). The
comparison to pure breeds like Rottweilers, prevalence of CPV-2a has been
Doberman Pinchers, English Springer documented in 2001 in Southern India
Spaniels and German Shepherd, the (Narayanan et al., 2001( Chinchikar et al.,
exception to this being Toy Poodles and 2006-7)). However, the incidence of CPV-
Cocker Spaniels (Houston et al., 1996). 2b is more comared to other mutants in
The CPV infection is more severe in young Northern India (Kumar and Nandi, 2010).
puppies especially those younger than three Occurrence of CPV-2c was first reported in
months of age (Appel et al., 1979; Jacob et India by Nandi et al. (2010b) based on the
al., 1980). All infected dogs may not sequence analysis of CPV-2b positive
necessarily exhibit clinical manifestations sample. Its presence in India supports the
but they may shed the virus in feces during assumption that CPV-2c is going to reach a
the acute phase of enteric fever and show worldwide distribution and provides new
significant rise in the serum antibody titers information to understand the evolution of
(Stann et al., 1984). antigenic variants of CPV-2 (Nandi et al.,
The different antigenic variants of 2010b).
CPV-2 are prevalent in varying proportion
in different countries. The prevalence of Symptoms
CPV-2b has been reported by various There is a broad range in the
authors in several countries namely Brazil severity of symptoms shown by dogs
(Pereira et al., 2000), USA (Parrish et al., infected with parvovirus. Many adult dogs
1988), Japan (Hirasawa et al., 1996), exposed to the virus remain apparently
Switzerland (Truyen et al, 2000) and South healthy but act as a carrier to transmit the
Africa (Steinel et al., 1998). Contrastingly, virus to the susceptible animals. The
CPV-2a was found to be the prevalent disease in majority of the cases is seen in
antigenic type in France, Taiwan and Italy dogs less than 6 months of age with severe
(Chang et al., 1992; Martella et al., 2004). symptoms in puppies younger than 3
However both CPV-2a and CPV-2b have months of age. The most common form of
been found to be distributed in equal the disease is enteritis. It is characterized
proportion in Spain (de Ybanez et al., by vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, dark or
1995) and U.K. (Greenwood et al., 1996). bloody faeces and in severe cases fever and
CPV-2c has also been found in Vietnam lowered WBC counts. Early symptoms are
(Nakamura et al., 2004), Spain (Decaro depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, high
et al., 2006b), United Kingdom (Decaro fever and severe diarrhea. There is slight
et al., 2007a), South America (Perez rise of temperature in the initial stage of the
et al., 2007), North America (Kapil disease but gradually turn to subnormal
et al., 2007) and India ( Nandi et al., level with advancement of vomiting and
2010b) . diarrhoea (Kramer et al., 1980). There is no
CPV-2 for the first time isolated in consistent character of the stool, it may be
India in 1982 (Ramadass and Khadher, watery, yellow in color or tinged with frank
1982). After that, the incidence of CPV-2 blood in severe cases. Rapid dehydration is
variants in dogs were reported from a danger, and dogs may continue to vomit
different states viz. Kerala (Deepa and and have diarrhoea until they die, usually
Saseendranath, 2000), Assam (Phukan et three days after onset of symptoms. The
al., 2004), Tamil Nadu (Sanjukta et al., course of illness is also highly variable
2008), Orissa (Banja et al., 2002), West depending on the infectious dose of the
Bengal (Biswas et al., 2006), Pondicherry virus and clinical signs usually develop
(Panneer et al., 2008), Haryana (Savi et al., from 3 to 5 days following infection and
2009) and Uttar Pradesh (Panda et al., typically persist for 5 to 7 days (Fletcher et
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 23 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
al., 1979). The acute parvovirus enteritis Puppies get protected during the
can be seen in dogs of any breed, sex or first few weeks of their life through
age. However, cross bred dogs are less colostrums. The duration of immunity
susceptible than pure breed dogs such as depends on how much colostrums a puppy
Rottweilers, Doberman Pinchers, English received in its first 2-3 days of life with an
Springer Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and average half life of 9-11 days (Decaro et
German Shepherd with the exception of al., 2005b). The decline of maternal
Toy Poodles and Cocker Spaniels. The antibody level starts from first week to 13
disease will progress rapidly and death weeks in the pups. Immunity to CPV
occurs as early as 2 days after the onset of infection appears directly related to
the disease. The presence of Gram –ve antibody titre. Vaccines used to date are
bacteria, parasites or other viruses can unreliable when given in the presence of
worsen the condition and slow down the maternal antibodies. Effective vaccines are
process of recovery. The second form of available for the prevention of CPV -2
CPV is cardiac syndrome, or myocarditis, infections. Both modified live and
which can affect puppies under three inactivated parvovirus vaccines have been
months old (Appel et al., 1979). Within an used to fully susceptible sero-negative
infected litter, 70% pups will die in heart pups. Attenuated strains of CPV have been
failure by 8 weeks of age and the remaining derived by repeated passage of the viruses
30% will have pathological changes which in cell culture. The vaccine viruses are
may result in death many months or even shed at much lower titres in the faeces
years later. The most dramatic suggesting that the absence of enteritis
manifestation of CPV-2 myocarditis is the results from decreased viral replication in
sudden death in young pups usually about 4 the intestine. Experimentally live virus
weeks of age (Mochizuki et al., 1996). vaccines have been shown to protect dogs
The tissue distribution of CPV for at least 3 years or longer. Inactivated
was found to have similar patterns in dogs vaccines however, provide only a limited
infected by types 2a, 2b and 2c, revealing duration of immunity to infection and dogs
that the variants have the same biological are protected against disease for several
behaviour. Parvovirus replication in dogs months (Carmichael et al., 1993; Schultz,
and cats takes place mainly in highly 2006). For parvoviral prophylaxis,
mitotically active tissues, such as bone modified live virus (MLV) vaccines have
marrow, lymphoid organs and intestinal proved to be much more effective than
crypts (Appel and Parrish, 1987). The inactivated vaccines. MLV vaccines have
nervous tissue involvement has been been shown to be safer and neither vaccine
described in cats (Csiza et al., 1972; induced diseases, reversion of virulence or
Wilcox et al., 1984; Url et al., 2003), the involvement of vaccine viruses in the
whereas in dogs CPV antigen has never generation of new viruses have been
been detected in neurons, despite the confirmed (Carmichael et al., 1993).
presence of neurodegeneration There is a strong correlation
(Agungpriyono et al., 1999; Url and between HI or serum neutralizing antibody
Schmidt, 2005) but these results were in titers and resistance to infection with CPV.
contrast with the Decaro et al. (2007b), The HI test has been useful to measure
who demonstrated the presence of CPV antibodies which correlated with immunity.
nucleic acid in all tissues including brain, Dogs vaccinated with killed vaccine
cerebellum and bulb. developed a serum antibody titre of less
than 1:80 in HI test and shed virulent CPV
Vaccines and Immunity when challenged orally. It is indicated that
dogs with low antibody titre support viral
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 24 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
replication in the intestine and are a source pups. About 60% of all puppies sero-
of infection for susceptible contacts. Dogs converted after a single vaccination either
that recover from the infection have at 6 weeks of age with a CPV monovalent
standard HI titres ranging from 1: 2560 to vaccine or at 8 weeks of age with a
1: 20480 which persist for at least one year multivalent vaccine. At 12 weeks of age
and are solidly immune (Appel et al., 1980; another shot is given when all pups had
Carmichael et al., 1993). Pups are fully received 2-3 inoculation at this age but
susceptible to challenge CPV infection nearly 10% pups still had not sero-
when the HI titre falls below 80 converted (Pratelli et al., 2000). The
(Carmichael et al., 1993). This leaves a principal reason for the non-responders was
period of several weeks where the young the persistence of interfering levels of
pups are susceptible to infection but maternal antibodies. None of the vaccines
refractory to vaccination. This period has tested were capable of breaking through a
been termed as “immunity gap”. In 1985, a maternal antibody titer of 1:160 or higher,
vaccine became available to use in dogs regardless whether the vaccines were high
against CPV infection and when given at tittered or not (Decaro et al., 2005b).
the age of 12 weeks 90% overcame the The following general vaccination schedule
immunity gap. As the CPV evolves very is recommended.
rapidly the question arises about the 1. Vaccination at 6 weeks of age with
efficacy of such vaccines against current a CPV-2 monovalent vaccine.
field strains (Greenwood et al., 1995). 2. Vaccination at 8 weeks of age with
Based on this observation, O’Brien (1994) a multivalent vaccine CPV, CDV, canine
suggested that all the susceptible pet adenovirus (CAV), leptospira and rabies
population should be vaccinated at an antigen.
interval of 3 weeks with a low passage 3. Vaccination at 15 of 16 weeks of
MLV-CPV until they attain an age of 18-20 age with a multivalent vaccine CPV, CDV,
weeks. CAV, leptospira and rabies antigen.
The HI titre > 1:80 is considered If it is necessary to develop an individual
protective. The highest rate of infection is vaccination schedule, determination of the
reported in pups older than 6 weeks of age antibody titer of one or two pups in the
(Pratelli et al., 2000). Passively acquired litter could be determined at 5 or 6 weeks
antibody titers below 80 are not considered of age, then vaccination of the litter may be
protective against infection but they calculated on the basis of titer, using an
commonly interfere with immunization. estimated antibody half life of 9.5 days.
There is a critical period where maternal Vaccination is likely to be successful when
antibodies are no longer present in the maternal antibody titer has declined to
sufficient quantity to confer protection. But less than 1:10. Titer below 1:40 is variably
90% of the pups from vaccinated protective, but they may interfere with
populations respond to vaccines at 12 vaccination.
weeks of age (Decaro et al., 2005b;
Schultz, 2006). Antigenic variation and cross-protection
Vaccination of dogs is generally There is a growing concern that
performed using multivalent vaccines, the vaccines used currently to prevent CPV
which contain CDV, CPV, leptospira infection in dogs may fail to effectively
bacterin and inactivated rabies virus. protect pups against the new CPV antigenic
Monovalent CPV-2 vaccines are also variants (Martella et al., 2005; Truyen,
available, some of them containing very 2006). Although the original CPV-2 was
high titer (107 TCID50) virus and widely completely replaced by the antigenic
recommended for initial vaccination of variants a few years after its appearance,
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 25 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
the original CPV-2 is still used in most origin in young, unvaccinated pups (Cavalli
commercial vaccines (Nandi et al., 2010). et al., 2008). Severe parvovirus outbreaks
Several studies have demonstrated that have been observed in pups with HI titers
CPV-2 vaccines are still effective to induce of maternally derived antibodies above the
protection against CPV variants threshold (1:80) related to protection
(Greenwood et al., 1995). The antigenic against disease and infection. Likewise,
relationships among the original CPV-2 experimental infection by virulent CPV-2b
and the variants CPV-2a, CPV-2b and strains of unvaccinated pups with high
CPV-2c were evaluated by HI and SN maternally derived antibody HI titers (>80)
using the sera of immune dogs and rabbits which are usually expected to prevent CPV
(Cavalli et al., 2008). Cross-antigenic infection and disease, resulted in clinical
evaluation of the CPV-2 variants revealed signs, virus shedding and an antibody
clear differences, which were more response (Decaro et al., 2005b; Elia et al.,
appreciable by SN than by HI. These 2005). Although animals immunized
findings confirm preliminary observations correctly with CPV-2 vaccines are fully
and deserve particular attention, as HI is the protected clinically, there is evidence that
gold standard test used in diagnostic the active immunity elicited by the vaccines
laboratories for evaluation of humoral may sometimes fail to protect adult dogs,
immunity to CPV-2 (Pratelli et al., 2001). and the reasons for this may rely on a
Accordingly, the results obtained with HI physiological decline of the protective
may tend to overrate the real immune status immunity or on the increased
of the animals. The greatest antigenic virulence/tropism inherent to some CPV
differences were found between the strains (Greenwood et al., 1995). The
original CPV-2, which is still largely sporadic cases of CPV-2c infection in adult
employed in vaccine formulations and the dogs (>1 year) have been diagnosed. The
variants. The original CPV-2 differs in at disease outbreak caused by CPV-2c in adult
least five or six amino acid changes from dogs immunized 3 times with a vaccine
the recent CPV-2 variants (Parrish et al., containing the original CPV-2 has been
1991). However, it was also possible to reported. Marked antigenic differences
observe antigenic differences among the were observed by SN in the sera of dogs
CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c variants, and rabbits immunized with the CPV-2b
which may differ from each other even by a vaccine, as the heterologous SN titers
single amino acid change (Martella et al., (versus CPV-2a and 2c) were significantly
2005). In the animals immunized with lower than the homologous SN titer
CPV-2, the SN titers to the antigenic (versus CPV-2b) (Cavalli et al., 2008).
variants CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c The evaluation of the antigenic
were significantly lower than the features of CPV-2c by cross-neutralization
homologous titers (Cavalli et al., 2008). It revealed a unique pattern for the variant
is improbable that these differences may CPV-2c. The CPV-2c variant was less
account for decreased protection against the effectively recognized by SN by the sera of
variants in dogs that are protected by a dogs inoculated with the heterologous
strong active immune response, since after (CPV-2, CPV-2a and CPV-2b) viruses.
repeated immunizations the antibody titers Conversely, in dogs infected/inoculated
in young dogs appear to be markedly with CPV-2c, the homologous (versus
higher than the minimum levels required CPV-2c) titers tended to be lower than the
for protection against disease and infection. heterologous titers, notably versus CPV-2b.
However, it is possible that these To a lesser extent, a similar inconsistent
differences may allow escape from the pattern was observed in rabbits inoculated
limited antibody repertoire of maternal with the variant CPV-2a, as the
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 26 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
homologous (versus CPV-2a) titers tended Therapy
to be lower than the heterologus titers to The restoration of the electrolyte
CPV-2b. The antigenic paradox exhibited and fluid balance is the most important goal
by CPV-2c may generate a different of therapy. The affected dogs should be put
selective pressure in the dog population and under broad spectrum antibiotic umbrella
may have contributed to the spread of the (Ampicillin, Chloramphenicol,
variant CPV-2c. These findings warrant Erythromycin, Gentamycin etc.).
studies to evaluate the opportunity to Norfloxacin and Nalidixic acid have been
develop ML vaccines based on the CPV-2c proved to be effective against canine
variant (Cavalli et al., 2008). It is indicated haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. The
that the discrepancies between the HI and symptomatic treatment with steroid, broad
SN titers, suggesting that HI is not spectrum antibiotic, fluid and electrolyte
adequate to evaluate the real protective may save the life of the animal (Woods et
immunity of dogs, in particular against the al., 1980). During the early phase of the
antigenic variants. Also, by SN there are disease, the application of hyperimmune
significant differences in the homologous serum may help to reduce the virus load
and heterologous antibody titers, these and render the infection less dramatic.
differences were more marked between the Such treatment has been shown to reduce
original CPV-2 and the recent variants the mortality and shorten the length of the
CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c (Cavalli et disease however hyperimmune serum is
al., 2008). difficult to obtain. In case of vomition,
Reglan @ 0.5 mg /kg body weight
Vaccine failure (Metaclopromide) may be given at 8 hours
The primary cause of CPV interval. To correct the gastric problem
vaccine is an interfering level of maternally Cimetidine, Ranitidine, Famotidine and to
derived antibodies against CPV. The check diarrhea, Loparamide or bismuth
genetic constitution of dogs also influences subnitrate or other astringent preparations
the susceptibility of particular breeds to may be given (Kramer et al., 1980). A dog
CPV infections. Further, with persistent vomition should not be
immunocompetence of the host at the time given any food until the diarrhea and
of vaccination also influences to elicit the vomition subsides.
effective immune response. Mismatching
between vaccine strain and field strain of Prevention and Control
CPV may have variable protection level As the canine parvovirus is not
against various strains prevailing in the enveloped, it is especially hardy in the
field. Maintenance of cold chain is an environment. It is able to withstand winter
important parameter particularly in the freezing temperatures in the ground
tropical conditions to maintain the potency outdoors and many household disinfectants
and efficacy of the vaccines. Improper are not capable of killing it indoors.
administration of vaccine in the host may Infected dogs shed virus in their stool in
also play an important role in the vaccine gigantic amounts during the 2 weeks
failure. Other reasons behind vaccine following exposure. A typical/average
failure in canine parvovirus infections may infectious dose for an unvaccinated dog is
be improper zoosanitory measures, 1000 viral particles. An infected dog sheds
disinfection practices, follow up of 35 million viral particles (35,000 times the
improper vaccination schedule, presence of typical infectious dose) per ounce of stool.
other intercurrent diseases of bacterial and Virus loses its infectivity within one month,
viral origin, antigenic mass present in the therefore, it should be safe to introduce a
vaccine, etc. new puppy indoors one month after the
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 27 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
active infection has ended. If the outdoors Elsevier, Amsterdam, The
is contaminated and is frozen, one must Netherlands, pp. 69–92.
wait for it to thaw out before safely Appel MJG, Cooper BJ, Greisen H and
introducing a new puppy. Shaded areas Carmichael LE (1978). Status report:
should be considered contaminated for canine viral enteritis. Journal of
seven months. Areas with good sunlight American Veterinary Medicine
exposure should be considered Association 173: 1516-1518.
contaminated for five months. Although Buonavoglia C, Martella V, Pratelli A,
most disinfectants cannot kill it, chlorine Tempesta M, Cavalli A, Buonavoglia
bleach (1 part bleach and 30 part water) is D, Bozzo G, Elia G, Decaro N and
quite effective. There is no way to Carmichael L (2001). Evidence for
completely disinfect contaminated dirt and evolution of canine parvovirus type 2
grass, although sunlight and drying has in Italy. Journal of General Virology
some effect. Mechanical decontamination 82: 3021–3025.
through irrigation may also be helpful, but Calderon MG, Mattino N, Bucafusco D,
the area must be allowed to dry thoroughly Fogel F, Rumorini P and La Torre J
between applications. Potassium (2009). Molecular characterization of
peroxymonosulfate has relatively good canine parvovirus strains in Argentina
activity in the face of organic matter, and :detection of the pathogenic variant
can be sprayed on contaminated areas using CPV2c in vaccinated dogs. Journal of
a pesticide sprayer or other applicator. Virological Methods 159: 141–145.
Another strategy to reduce risk Carmichael LE, Joubert JC and Pollock RV
for parvoviral outbreaks is to segregate (1993). A modified live canine parvo-
juvenile animals from adults. Puppies and virus vaccine and Immune response.
kittens should not be housed with adults. Cornell Veterinarian 73: 13-29.
Puppies or kittens can be housed together Cavalli A, Martella V, Desario C, Camero
using a planned all in-all out co-housing M, Bellacicco AL, De Palo P, Decaro
approach. In this approach, littermates can N, Elia G and Buonavoglia C (2008).
be housed together in small groups (3 per Evaluation of the antigenic relationshi
group), and unrelated puppies or kittens -ps among canine parvovirus type 2
that were already living together before variants. Clinical and Vaccine
admission can also be housed together. Immunology 15: 534–539.
Dogs and cats should be housed in separate Decaro N, Campolo M, Desario C, Elia G,
areas because CPV-2b has the potential to Martella V, Ricci D, Lorusso E and
infect cats and cause panleukopenia. Buonavoglia C (2005b). Maternally-
Finally, all efforts to reduce stress should derived antibodies in pups and protect-
be pursued. The most effective way to ion from canine parvovirus infection.
reduce stress on animals is to prevent Biologicals. 33: 261–267.
crowding by practicing population Decaro N, Desario C, Addie DD, Martella
management principles. Limiting run and V, Vieira MJ, Elia G, Davis C, Thom-
cage occupancy to 1–2 compatible animals son G, Truyen U and Buonavoglia C
each results in less stress and substantially (2007a). The study of molecular epide
reduces risk of contracting infectious -miology of canine parvovirus,
disease. Europe. Emerging Infect. Dis.
13:1222–1224.
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Appel MJG and Parrish CR (1987). Canine Martella V, Ricci D, Lorusso E and
parvovirus type 2, In M. J. G. Appel Buonavoglia C (2005a). Clinical and
(ed.), Virus infections of carnivores. virological findings in pups naturally
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 infected by canine parvovirus type 2 Pardo MC, Sanchez S, Buonavoglia C
Glu-426 mutant. Journal of Veterinary and Saliki JT (2007). Occurrence of
Diagnostic Investigation 17: 133–138. canine parvovirus type 2c in the United
Decaro N, Desario C, Elia G, Martella V, States, Journal of Veterinary
Mari V, Lavazza A, Nardi M and Diagnostic Investigation 19: 535-539.
Buonavoglia C (2008). Evidence for Kramer JM, Meunter PC and Pollock RVH
immunisation failure in vaccinated (1980). Canine parvovirus: update.
adult dogs infected with canine Veterinary Medicine Small Animal
parvovirus type 2c. New Clinic 175: 1541-1555.
Microbiologica. 31: 125-130. Kumar M. and Nandi, S. (2010).
Decaro N, Elia G, Martella V, Campolo M, Molecular Typing of canine parvovirus
Desario C and Camero M (2006). First variants by polymerase chain reaction
detection of canine parvovirus type 2c and restriction enzyme analysis.
in pups with haemorrhagic enteritis in Transbound. Emerg. Dis. 57: 6 :
Spain. Journal of Veterinary Medicine 458–463.
B 53: 468–472. Larson LJ and Schultz RD (2008). Do two
Decaro N, Elia G, Martella V, Campolo M, current canine parvovirus type 2 and
Lorusso A, Desario C, Mari V, Camero 2b vaccines provide protection against
M and Buonavoglia C (2007c). the new type 2c variant. Veterinary
Occurrence of severe gastroenteritis in Therapeutics 9: 94-101.
pups after canine parvovirus vaccine Martella V, Cavalli A, Decaro N, Elia G,
administration: A clinical and Desario C, Campolo M, Bozzo G,
laboratory diagnostic dilemma. Vaccine Tarsitano E and Buonavoglia C (2005).
25: 1161–1166. Immunogenicity of an intranasally
Decaro N, Martella V, Elia G, Desario C, administered modified live canine
Campolo M, Lorusso E and Buonavogli parvovirus type 2b vaccine in pups
-a C (2007b). Tissue distribution of the with maternally derived antibodies.
antigenic variants of canine parvovirus Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory
type 2 in dogs. Veterinary Immunology 12: 1243–1245.
Microbiology 121: 39–44. Moon HS. Lee SA, Lee SG, Choi R,
Desario C, Decaro N, Campolo M, Cavalli Jeoung SY, Kim D and Hyun C
A, Cirone F, Elia G, Martella V, Loruss (2008). Veterinary Comparison of the
-o E, Camero M and Buonavoglia C pathogenicity in three different Korean
(2005). Canine parvovirus infection: canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2) isolates.
which diagnostic test for virus? Journal Microbiology 131: 47–56.
of Virological Methods 121: 179–185. Nakamura M, Tohya Y, Miyazawa T,
Elia G, Cavalli A, Cirone F, Lorusso E, Mochizuki M, Phung HT, Nguyen NH,
Camero M, Buonavoglia D and Tempes Huynh LM, Nguyen LT, Nguyen NP
-ta M (2005). Antibody levels and prote and Akashi H (2004). A novel
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Greenwood NM, Chalmers SK, Baxendale Nandi S, Anbazhagan R and Kumar M
W and Thompson H (1995). Compariso (2010a). Molecular characterization
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Veterinary Record 136: 63–67. Nandi S, Chidri S, Kumar M and Chauhan
Hong C, Decaro N, Desario C, Tanner P, RS (2010b). Occurrence of canine
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 parvovirus type 2c in the dogs with M, Decaro N, Carmichael LE and
haemorrhagic enteritis in India. Buonavoglia C (2001). Canine
Research in Veterinary Science 88: parvovirus (CPV) vaccination:
169-171. comparison of neutralizing antibody
O’Brien SE (1994). Serologic response of response in pups after inoculation with
puppies to the low-passage modified- CPV2 or CPV2b modified live virus
live canine parvovirus-2 component in a vaccine. Clinical Diagnostic
combination vaccine. Journal of Laboratory Immunology 8: 612–615.
American Veterinary Medicine Pratelli AA, Cavalli G, Normanno MG,
Association 204:1207–1209. Palma GD, Buonavoglia C and Martella
Parrish CR, O'Connell PH, Evermann JF V (2000). Immunization of pups with
and Carrmichael LE (1985). Natural maternally derived antibodies to canine
variation of canine parvovirus. Science parvovirus (CPV) using a modified-live
230: 1046-1048. variant (CPV-2b). Journal of
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Evermann JF, Sgro JY and Mohammed Schultz R (2006). Duration of immunity for
HO (1991). Rapid antigenic type canine and feline vaccines: a review.
replacement and DNA sequence Veterinary Microbiology117(1):75–79.
evolution of canine parvovirus. Journal Spibey N, Greenwood NM, Sutton D,
of Virology 65: 6544-6552. Chalmers WS and Tarpey I (2008)
Perez R, Francia L, Romero V, Maya L, Canine parvovirus type 2 vaccine
Lopez I and Hernandez M (2007). First protects against virulent challenge with
detection of canine parvovirus type 2c in type 2c virus. Veterinary Microbiology
South America. Veterinary 128: 48-55.
Microbiology 124: 147-152. Truyen U (2006). Evolution of canine
Pollock RV and Carmichael LE (1983). parvovirus—A need for new vaccines?
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panleukopenia virus vaccine to Woods CB, Pollock RVH and Carmichael
immunize dogs against canine LE (1980). Canine parvoviral enteritis.
parvovirus. American Journal of Journal of American Animal Hospital
Veterinary Research 44: 169–175. Association 16: 171-179.
Pratelli A, Cavalli A, Martella V, Tempesta

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Indian Journal of Canine Practice 30 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 FOLLICULAR CYSTIC OVARIES AND CEH-PYOMETRA
IN A DOG
C. Jayakumar, Abhignya Krishna, K.S. Shwetha and G. Sudha
Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Veterinary College, Bangalore
[Received: 31.1.2014; Accepted: 01.6.2014]

Introduction was evaluated for prolonged

Ovarian follicular cysts are fluid serosanguinous vaginal discharge since
filled structures in the ovary with a distinct more than two weeks. Vaginal cytological
wall that may be secreting estrogen with examination revealed predominance of
subsequent estrogen mediated effects on cornified vaginal epithelial cells (>80%).
the female reproductive tract and extra Vaginoscopy exposed presence of
reproductive system (Post et al., 1991). edematous billows of vaginal mucosa.
Ovarian follicular structures greater than Abdominal ultrasonography with a 5 MHz
8mm in diameter present during proestrus transducer revealed enlarged uterus with
or estrus prior to ovulation, or follicles of varying sized hypoechoic areas and focal
any size present during late estrus (post anechoic areas caudal to both kidneys.
ovulation), diestrus or anestrus are defined Laboratory findings indicated peripheral
as follicular cysts (Johnston et al., 2001). leukocytosis and moderately elevated BUN
Ultrasonographically, follicular cysts and creatinine levels. Based on the clinical,
appear as focal hypoechoic and anechoic ultrasonographic, vaginoscopic and
structures that may show far enhancement. laboratory findings, the condition was
Follicular cysts may be single or multiple; presumptively diagnosed as open cervix
if multiple cysts are present in one ovary, pyometra associated with follicular cyst. As
the cysts do not communicate. Pathogenesis the dog has passed its fertile age and not
of follicular cystic disease in the dog ovary intended for breeding, ovariohysterectomy
is unknown. Clinical signs of cystic ovarian was performed.
follicular disease are referable to increased Under intravenous anaesthetic
serum estrogen concentration. The most protocol with Ketamine and Propofol,
common presenting complaint is estrous ovario-hysterectomy was performed
cycle irregularity exhibited as irregular through a mid ventral laparotomy incision.
interestrous intervals and prolonged The right ovary exposed a large follicular
proestrus or estrus. Concurrent diseases cyst measuring 4.1 x 3.7 cm in diameter
reported in dogs with follicular cyst include and containing 10 ml of clear cystic fluid.
CEH-pyometra complex,mammary, ovarian The left ovary also exposed multiple cysts
and uterine neoplasia and skin changes and the biggest one had a diameter of 2.2 x
(Johnston et al., 2001). 1.6 cm (Fig.1). Though both uterine horns
The present paper places on were enlarged, the left horn enlargement
record Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia– was prominent than right. The horns
Pyometra complex associated with expressed serosanguinous discharge and the
follicular cyst in a dog. endometrium was moderately thickened by
multiple fluid filled cavities significantly
Case History and Observations cystic endometrial hyperplasia. The
A nine year old, nulliparous, laparotomy wound was approximated as
Lhasa apso dog presented to the per standard procedures and post operative
Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & antibiotic and supportive treatments
Obstetrics, Veterinary College, Bangalore instituted. Skin sutures were removed on

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 31 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

tenth day and the animal had an uneventful
recovery.

Fig.1- Cystic Ovary after Surgical Removal of Uterus and Ovaries

Histologically, the cyst lined by predisposed to Cystic endometrial

cuboidal to columnar cells and that hyperplasia – pyometra complex correlative
contained no ovum was identified as to the findings of Harvey (1998) and
follicular type. Cystic endometrial Johnston et al., (2001) who reported a close
hyperplasia and endometritis was relationship between ovarian follicular
confirmed on histopathological cysts; ovarian, mammary, uterine neoplasia
examination of the thickened area of the and co- existence of Cystic endometrial
uterine wall. hyperplasia- pyometra complex.

Discussion References
Ovarian follicular cysts, usually a Bang-Sil Kim, Hel Su Kim, Ki Chul Kim,
condition of the older bitch, are thin walled Chul Ho Park, Ki Seok Oh and Chang
structures containing clear, serous fluid and Ho Son (2008). Vaginal prolapse by
may be single or multiple and unilateral or ovarian follicular cysts in a female Jin-do
bilateral (Roberts, 1982). Granulosa cells dog. Korean J Vet Res., 48 : 223-225.
lining follicular cysts may be productive, Harvey, M. (1998). Condition of the non-
secreting estrogen with subsequent estrogen pregnant female. In: BSAVA manual of
mediated effects on the dog’s reproductive small animal reproduction and
tract and extra reproductive systems neonatology. Simpson G., British Small
(Johnston et al., 2001). Prolonged periods Animal Veterinary Association: 36-39.
of secretion of estrogen from follicular cyst Johston, S.D., Kustritz, M.V., Olson, P. N.
predispose to cystic endometrial (2001). Disorders of the canine ovary.
hyperplasia (Harvey, 1998). Limited In: Canine and feline theriogenology. 1st
success has been reported with hormonal Edn. Saunders, Philadelphia, pp. 195-
therapy for ovarian follicular cysts and 235.
ovariectomy or ovario-hysterectomy is the Post,K., Van Haaften, B., Okkens, A.C.
treatment of choice (Johnston et al., 2001). (1991). Vaginal hyperplasia in the bitch-
Follicular cysts complicate cystic Literature and commentary. Can Vet J.,
endometrial hyperplasia – pyometra (Bang 32: 35-37.
Sil Kim et al., 2008). The presence of Roberts, S. J. (1982). Veterinary obstetrics
follicular cysts in both ovaries of the and genital diseases (Theriogenology),
reported dog and the prolonged exposure to 2nd ed. CBS publishers and distributors,
estrogen from follicular cyst might have India, pp. 590.

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Indian Journal of Canine Practice 32 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 ULTRASONOGRAPHIC PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS AND
LANDMARKS IN DOMESTIC CATS
S.U. Gulvaane, M.N. Rangnekar, S.A. Bakshi, R.J. Chaudhari and P.J. Thakur
Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology, and Obstetrics,
Bombay Veterinary College, Parel, Mumbai -12.
[Received: 28.2.2014; Accepted: 08.6.2014]

Twenty two queens of Persian breed were divided into two groups depending on the history of mating.
Group A (n = 13) queens had confirmed history of mating and Group B (n = 9) queens had unknown history of
mating. The queens were scanned below day 40 {A(I) and B(I)} and above day 40 {(AII) and (BII)} of gestation.
A real time, B mode, portable ultrasonographic machine (SSD – 500 Aloka Co.Ltd., Japan) with 3.5 MHz
transabdominal sector transducer was used for scanning of the uterus. All the queens were scanned 20 days and
above to avoid false negatives. In group A (I) and B(I) the gestational sacs were visible on day 20 when the study
was started, with a C-shaped embryo. Other landmarks like cardiac activity, ossification, movements of embryo
were observed on day 20, 32 and 35, respectively. In group A (II) and B (II) biparietal diameter and body
diameter were measured as the head was distinctly observed and the rib cage was also seen. Foetal structures like
stomach, eye was observed on day 47 and 42 respectively whereas, pronounced foetal movements were observed
from day 44. The different chambers of the heart with valve movements were observed at day 53.
Keywords: Cats, Ultrasonography, Pregnancy, landmarks

Introduction landmarks during gestation at different

Cat breeding is a growing field but phases.
there is limited data available on breeding,
pregnancy diagnosis, queening and other Materials and Methods
reproductive indices. No method is Total twenty two clinically healthy
commercially available to assess the feline queens of Persian breed aged between 1.5
physiologic response during pregnancy. to 6 years and weighing around 1.5 to 3 kg
Behavioral changes seen in queens during were scanned between 20 to 60 days post
metestrus do not allow differentiation mating in the Department of Animal
between pregnancy and pseudopregnancy Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics,
following fertilization failure. The Bombay Veterinary Collage, Parel,
detection of pregnancy by abdominal Mumbai 400 012 and private clinics located
palpation can usually be performed in a in Mumbai. All the scans were performed
tractable individual at around 30 gestational 20 days and above to avoid false negatives.
days. Much greater manual skills are The queens were divided in to two groups
required for earlier detection of pregnancy. as follows: Group A (n= 13): in this group,
Radiographic studies of the pregnant queen queens had confirmed dates of mating
become reliable only after skeletal recorded by the owner. Group B (n=9): In
ossification begins, generally from 35 to 39 this group, queens had history of mating
days of gestation. Pregnancy diagnosis by but dates of mating were unknown or not
abdominal palpation or radiography may recorded by the owner.
confirm the presence of foetuses at one The queens in Group A were further
point in time, but these methods cannot be divided into two groups depending on the
used to assess foetal viability until stage of gestation in which they were
profound morphologic changes have scanned. Thirteen queens were scanned in
occurred (Davidson et al., 1986). Hence, Group A (I) below day 40 of gestation and
the present study was conducted to perform these thirteen queens were scanned again
ultrasonographic pregnancy diagnosis in above day 40 of gestation in Group A (II).
domestic cats and study the foetal

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 33 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

Group A (I): 13 scans less than day 40 of Group B (I): 7 scans less than day 40 of
gestation. gestation.
Group A (II): 13 scans above day 40 of Group B (II): 11 scans above day 40 of
gestation. gestation.
Group B had nine queens in total, of A real time, B mode, portable
which six queens were scanned in Group B ultrasonographic machine (SSD-500 Aloka
(I). One queen (K2) was scanned twice in Co. Ltd., Japan) with 3.5 MHz
Group B (I). Therefore, the total number of transabdominal sector transducer was used
scans in Group B (I) was seven. Eight for scanning of the uterus (Plate 1). The full
queens were scanned in Group B (II), of bladder was used as an acoustic imaging
which three queens were scanned twice in window to locate the uterus. The selected
Group B(II). Therefore, the total number of queens were prepared by clipping the hair
scans in Group B (II) was eleven. The on the ventral abdomen. Queens were held
queens from Group B were further divided in the dorsal recumbency (Plate 2) for
in to two groups depending on the stage of better ultrasonographic image.
gestation in which they were scanned.

Plate 1: Ultrasonography machine with attached Plate 2: Restraining of the queen in dorsal
thermal printer recumbency

Results and Discussion queens were scanned above twenty days of

Group A (I) and B (I) gestation depending on their availability.
Pregnancy diagnosis using ultrasound Davidson et al .(1986), Pineda (1989),
and landmark observed before day 40 of Grifin (2001), Baker et al. (2002), Matton
gestation: and Nyland (2002), Zambelli et al. (2002a)
In this group 14 queens were , Zambelli et al. (2002 b) , Tibary et al.
scanned of which 13 were diagnosed (2003) , Dickie (2006) and Zambelli et al.
pregnant and one queen was diagnosed as (2006) recorded earliest pregnancy
non-pregnant. From the 13 pregnant queens diagnosis after 10th day post breeding (day
measurements of 35 foetuses and 38 11- 14). Their findings could not be
gestational sacs were taken. Pregnancy was compared with the findings of the present
confirmed after the anechoic gestational study as the scanning in the current study
sacs were visible on the screen of the commenced from 20th day of gestation to
ultrasound machine. These anechoic avoid false negatives. The observations
gestational sacs were circular to ovoid in were taken from 20th day of gestation
shape and were surrounded hypoechoic to considering the findings of Burke et al.
hyperechoic wall of the gestational sac. In (1986) who found that it was difficult to get
the present study, the gestational sacs were correct observations with real time units
visible on day 20 of gestation in one queen prior to 18 day of gestation.
(C10) who was scanned at that time. Other
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 34 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 In the present study, the embryo was and Nyland (2002). Zambelli et al. (2002 b)
visible at day 20 as a ‘C’ shaped structure. recorded the appearance of limb buds much
This ‘C’ shaped structure was maintained earlier by day 17, which was not in
till day 24. Zambelli et al. (2002b) and agreement with the present study. This
Zambelli et al. (2006) found a well defined difference in the observation might be due
embryo after day 18 which was in to higher resolution of new age machines
accordance with the present findings. and probe frequencies used by these
Matton and Nyland (2002) observed the workers. However, they observed foot pad
embryo later by day 23 to 25 as compared from day 35, which was similar to the
to the findings of the present study. Similar present finding.
to the present study, Dickie (2006) first In the present study, the ossification had
observed the embryo on day 21 of started from day 32 with the spinal cord
gestation. In the present study, the embryo being faintly visible at day 35. The margins
was not attached to the gestational chamber of the head were also visible from day 33
when first observed at day 20. It appeared onwards. These findings were similar with
as a mass separated from the wall of the sac that of Burke et al. (1986) who measured
and folded on itself. At day 24 the embryo the biparietal diameter of the skull from
appeared straight as compared to the day 35 onwards. Matton and Nyland (2002)
observation on day 20, 22 and 23. The observed foetal skeleton from day 33 to 39.
embryo appeared elongated and parallel to Movements of the embryo like dorso-
the gestational chamber on day 28 of ventral flexion were observed on day32
gestation. Similar observations were whereas the limb movements were
recorded by Zambelli et al. (2002b) who observed from day 35. These findings were
observed the longitudinal axis of the similar to Zambelli et al. (2002 b), Matton
embryo parallel to that of gestational and Nyland (2002) and Tibary and Memon
chamber after day 26. (2003).
In the present study, all the embryos
seen showed cardiac activity 20th day Group A(II) and Group B(II)
onwards. From day 20 to 24 the cardiac Pregnancy diagnosis using ultrasound
activity was observed as flickering and landmarks observed during
movements with changing echogenecity. A gestation after day 40:
properly beating heart was seen beyond day In this group, a second scan of
25. However, different chambers of the queens C1 to C13 from group A (I) was
heart were not observed at this stage. These performed above day 40 of gestation. All
findings were similar to Davidson et al. 13 queens were confirmed to be pregnant
(1986) , Matton and Nyland (2002) , on second scan. One queen who was found
Zambelli et al. (2002b), Verstegen to be non-pregnant at day 23 was scanned
(2005) , Zambelli et al. (2006) and Kustriz again after 20 days and was found to be
(2010). Tibary and Memon (2003) recorded non-pregnant. During this phase some
fetal heart beats between day 16-20 which landmarks of foetal development were
was slightly earlier than the present study. studied. After day 40, foetuses were easily
However, in the present study observations detected due to complete ossification.
were not taken before day 20. Hence, biparietal diameter and body
In the present study, differentiation diameter were measured as the head was
of limb buds and head was observed on day distinctly observed and the rib cage was
28. However, they were more prominent also seen. In this stage, gestational sacs
with foot pads after day 35. This finding were more elongated. The foetuses were
was in accordance with Davidson et al. active and cardiac activity was distinctly
(1986), Tibary and Memon (2003), Matton visible. During this phase foetuses became
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 35 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
thicker and more oblong. The zonary stomach dorsal to the liver by day 30 and
placenta became apparent in the middle of caudal to the liver by day 49. Their findings
the vesicles, seen as finely granular were almost similar to the present findings.
structure of moderate echogenecity. As the Pronounced foetal movements were
foetal age progressed, foetus started observed from day 44. The movements of
occupying more of lumen of the gestational the foetal head, limbs and neck were
sacs. It was difficult to visualize single prominent with dorso- ventral flexion of the
gestational sac with complete foetus during foetus. In the present study, eye was
this phase. observed around 42nd day which was
The amount of foetal fluid was less slightly late than the observations recorded
and fetuses did not float inside gestational by Zambelli et al. (2002 b) and Zambelli et
sacs from day 50 and were in close contact al. (2006). In the present study, the mouth
with uterine wall. Foetal fluid was seen and tongue movements were recorded after
only cranially and caudally to the foetus. day 50. This finding was in accordance
The foetal vertebrae were visible in all the with Zambelli et al. (2002 b). It was
fetuses. Jaw movements of the fetus were possible to measure the heart beats using
seen at some occasions beyond day 50. the different (B/M) mode on the ultrasound
Inside foetal abdomen, anechoic area was machine (Plate 3). The foetal heart beat
observed in the area of the stomach. By day ranged from 220 to 280 beats. The different
44, cross section of foetal ribs was chambers of the heart with valve
visualized. Anechoic structures was seen movements were observed on day 53,
towards the end of the rib cage which was which was similar to observation made by
identified as the stomach at around day 47. Zambelli et al. (2002 b) and Zambelli et al.
Zambelli et al. (2002b) had identified (2006).

Plate 3: Heart rate of the foetus on B/M mode

In conclusion, gestational sacs were stomach, eyes were observed on day 47 and
visible above day 20 to confirm pregnancy 42, respectively whereas pronounced foetal
with a presence of C- shaped embryo. movements were observed from day 44.
Other landmarks like cardiac activity, The different chambers of the heart with
ossification, movements of embryo were valve movements were observed at day 53.
observed on day 20, 32 and 35,
respectively. Whereas, when scanned above References
day 40 of pregnancy, biparietal diameter Baker, T. and Davidson A. (2002).
and body diameter were measured as the Reproductive ultrasonography: The
head was distinctly observed and the rib Bitch and the Queen with case studies,
cage was also seen. Foetal structures like 81st western veterinary conference:

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 36 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 255-258. and cat. Iranian Journal of Veterinary
Burke, T. J. and Badertscher R. R. (1986). Surgery (suppl): 63-71.
Pregnancy diagnosis in: small animal Pineda, M.H. (1989). Reproductive patterns
reproduction and fertility. A clinical in domestic cat in veterinary
approach to diagnose and treatment. endocrinology and reproduction. 4th ed.
Lea and febiger, Philadelphia: 85-92. Lea and Febiger, Philadelphia:487-502.
Davidson A. P., Nyland T. G and Tsutsui Tibary, A. and Memon M. (2003). Pregnan
T. (1986). Pregnancy diagnosis in -cy in: the practical veterinarian-Small
small animal practice, Blackwell animal theriogenology. Elsevier scienc
Publishing, UK. Ch 8: 145-169. -e,United States of America 8:207-240.
Dickie, A. (2006). Imaging of the reproduct Verstegen J. (2005). Feline reproduction in
-ive cat in: Diagnostic ultrasound in textbook of Veterinary Internal
small animal practice, Blackwell Medicine Vol.2.5th ed. W.B. Saunders,
Publishing, UK. Ch 8: 145-169 Pennsylvania:1585-1599.
Griffin, B. (2001). Prolific cats: The estrus Zambelli, D. , Castagnetti C. , Belluzzi S.
cycle. Compendium 23(12):1049-1055. and Bassi S (2002a). Correlation betwe
Kahan, W. (1994). Ultrasonography in dogs -en the age of the conceptus and variou
and cats in: Veterinary reproductive -s ultrasonographic measurements
ultrasonography. Mosby wolfe, during the first 30 days of pregnancy in
Germany: 227-249. domestic cats (feli catis).
Kustriz Root, M.V. (2010). Feline tchnique Theriogenology 57: 1981-1987.
-s in: Clinical canine and feline reprod- Zambelli, D. , Caneppele B. , Bassi S. ,
uction: evidence- based answers, 1st ed. Paladini C. (2002b). Ultrasound aspect
Wiley Blackwell, lowa 59: 191-192s -s of fetal and extra fetal structures in
Matton and Nyland (2002). Ovaries and pregnant cats. Journal of feline
uterus in: small animal diagnostic medicine and surgery 4: 95-106.
ultrasound, 2nd ed. Saunders, Zambelli D. , and Prati F. (2006).
Philadelphia: 231-249. Ultrasonography for pregnancy
Mantis (2008) Ultrasonography of the diagnosis and evaluation in queens.
urinary and genital system in the dog Theriogenology 66: 135-144.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 37 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF
CANINE OSTEOARTHRITIS
V.P. Chandrapuria1, Apra Shahi2, H.S. Dhakare3and Somil Rai4
1
Professor & Head, 2Associate Professor, 3M.V.Sc.Scholar, 4PhD.Scholar, Department of Veterinary
Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and A. H., Jabalpur.
[Received: 27.12.2013; Accepted: 20.5.2014]

Osteoarthritis is the most common orthopedic disease causes of lameness in dogs. The destructive
changes that lead to osteoarthritis are irreversible. The present study was conducted on eighteen dogs which were
clinically examined, 8 were found with mild lameness of hind limb, 6 showed moderate lameness while 4 showed
severe and debilitating lameness. Anamnesis and clinical signs including severity, debility, muscle atrophy,
wobbling gait, changes in body conformation, vocalization and pain on flexion and extension and cripitus of the
joint, were consistent with severe form of the disease. The radiographic finding at day 0 showed mild periostitis,
subchondral sclerosis, irregular joint space, osteophyte particularly at cartilage margins and rough definition of
joints. On 14th day, sub-chondral sclerosis reduced with distinct articular margin and osteophytosis also
subsequently reduced on 21, 40 and 70 post observation day. Synovial fluid examinations showed significant
changes in turbidity, viscosity and cell count in group III followed by group II and I, respectively. Glucosamine
and chondroitin sulphates combination was found chondro-protective with the recovered radiographic changes
from osteoarthritis at different intervals in all the groups.

Introduction aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen ketoprofen,

The most common form of piroxicam and meloxicam. Intra-articular
canine arthritis is Osteoarthritis and is also injection of sodium hyaluronate (i.e.,
one of the most common causes of hyaluronic acid [HA]. Hyaluronan). Also
lameness in dogs. It is caused by referred to as viscosupplementation, has
deterioration of joint cartilage, followed by been shown to be safe and effective for the
pain and loss of range of motion of the symptomatic relief of knee OA. The
joint. Cartilage is a smooth, resilient tissue chondroprotective agents, counter arthritic
that lines the joints, allowing nearly degenerative processes and encourage
frictionless joint movement, and providing normalization of the synovial fluid and
shock absorption. Disruption of cartilage cartilage matrix (Iwata, 1993).
leads to increased friction and
inflammation in the joints. This erodes the Materials and Methods
bone and can cause formation of new bone, The study was conducted on 18
called osteophyte (bone spur) which clinical cases of osteoarthritis in adult dogs
interferes with normal joint movement and of either sex, presented at Department of
can cause pain and other complications. Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, TVCC,
Diagnosis of osteoarthritis is College of Veterinary Science and A.H.,
made primarily on the basis of history, N.D.V.S.U., Jabalpur having signs of
clinical signs, radiography, arthrography osteoarthritis. In positive dogs,
and synovial fluid analysis radiographs radiography, arthrography and synovial
may demonstrate joint effusion, osteophyte fluid analysis were carried out for
formation, subchondral sclerosis and bone differential diagnosis of osteoarthritis from
remodeling (Morgan et al., 1987). The aseptic arthritis, inflammatory arthritis,hip
class of drugs most commonly used for dysplasia, sprain and strain, joint
pain control in canine osteoarthritis is the dislocation and fracture.
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Eighteen dogs of either sex suffers
Acetaminophen is the first drug from osteoarthritis were divided equally
recommended for mild to moderate into three groups and supplemented with
osteoarthritis. Commonly used NSAIDs are glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate 500–
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 38 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
1,500 mg daily orally for 30 days. Six Body wt. Intramuscular for 5 days followed
animals of first group were treated with Inj. by tablet meloxicam orally for next 5 days
Meloxicam at the dose rate of 0.2 mg/kg at dose rate of 0.2 mg/kg Body Wt. daily.
RADIOGRAPHIC FINDINGS:

Figure 1: Periostitis, mild Subchondral sclerosis with Figure 2: Mild sclerosis, improved joint
rough definition of joint margin in Group I, margin in Group I, Day 70
Day 0 (Stifle joint) (Stifle joint)

ARTHROGRAM:

Figure 3: Median pooling of contrast agent Figure 4: Injuries in articular cartilage, narrowing of joint
space, cartilage fissuring and fragmentation

Second group were treated with to five times at weekly intervals by taking
inj. Meloxicam at the dose rate of 0.2 all aseptic measures during procedure.
mg/kg Body wt. intra muscular for 5 days Radiograph of the animals were
followed by tablet meloxicam orally for taken in dorso-ventral and lateral view on
next 5 days at dose rate of 0.2 mg/kg Body 0, 14th, 21st, 40th and 70th day to look for
Wt. daily and along with therapeutic ultra signs of increased joint fluid, bone
sound for two to four week. hardening and new bone formation.
In group third, six animals were Contrast radiography was done for
treated with intra articular injections of diagnosis of osteoarthritis; articular
hyaluronidase (inj. Hynidase 1500 IU)three cartilage joint capsule and sac were
evaluated with the technique. Synovial
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 39 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
fluid samples were collected in all cases all aseptic precaution.
with OA by arthrocentesis after following

ARTHOCENTESIS

Figure 5: Collection of synovial fluid from stifle joint Figure 6: Collection of synovial fluid from stifle
joint (C- Arm Image)

Results and Discussion At day 0 out of eighteen dogs the

During one year period total radiographic features of 8 dogs showed
12600 cases of various disciplines were slight narrowing of joint space and possible
presented at TVCC. The joint disorder was osteophyte, mild periostiitis, rough density
recorded in 720 cases and the prevalence and definition or joint margin, indicative of
was 5. 71%. Out of joint disorders, mild osteoarthritis. In six dogs the
osteoarthritis was recorded in 220 cases narrowing of joint space was clearly
with the prevalence of 30.55% and the evident with osteophytosis and slight
overall prevalence of osteoarthritis was subchondral sclerosis concentrated at center
noticed 1.75%. The highest prevalence of of articular margin. In rest of the four dogs
joint disorders observed in age group of 12- the joint space narrowing, subchondral
15 years. Eighteen dogs recruited in the sclerosis, osteophytosis and slight rough
present study were clinically examined and flattened articular margin with irregular
none was found clinically normal, 8 were bone formation at places were the
found with mild lameness of the hind limb, prominent radiographic features. The large
6 showed moderate lameness while 4 osteophytes were also visible at few places.
showed severe and debilitating lameness. Mazzuca(1999) observed joint space width
The animals of groups I and II measurement for the diagnosis of
showed significant reduction in lameness osteoarthritis Vasseur et al.(1992) stated
on day 7 and total recovery on day 21. The that osteophyte is characteristic
efficacy of meloxicam with therapeutic abnormality of osteoarthritis. Subchondral
ultrasound was noticed better than bone changes that accompanied
meloxicam alone or intra articular injection osteoarthritis include eburnation, cyst
of hyaluronidase. Group III animals formation, flattering and deformity as
showed a decrease in grading score of observed by Morgan(1969). These changes
lameness on day 21 which further reduced predominate in areas of the joint subjected
significantly by day 45 of observation to increased load bearing (Marshal, 1969).
periods.
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 40 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 The arthrographic findings were References
absent in eight animals, doubtful in six and Andren, L. and B.J. Lundberg (1965).
characteristics in four dogs. It included Treatment of rigid shoulders by joint
roughning of articular cartilage and distention during arthrography . Acta
narrowing of joint space with irregular Orthop scand., 36 : 45.
bone surfaces. These four dogs were also Dalinka, M.K.,R. E. Brennan and C.
diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis by Canino (1977). Double contrast knee
radiographic findings and clinical Arthrography in Children. clin.
examination. The arthrographic findings of Orthopaedics &related res.,125: 88-93.
the present study were similar to the report Hopper, P. E. (1993). Immune-mediated
of Dalinka et al. (1977), Andren and joint diseases. In: Textbook of small
Lundberg (1965) and Poulos(1982). Animal Surgery (ed.2) Slatter D.
In the present study synovial Philadelphia, pp. 1928-1937.
fluid analysis revealed change in turbidity, Iwata, H. (1993) Pharmacologic and
viscosity and cell count while other clinical aspects of intraarticular injection
parameters were almost normal in all the of hyaluronate.Clin orthop.,28: 285-301.
various groups. Arthrocentesis and synovial Marshal J. l. (1969). Periarticular
fluid analysis are useful in confirming the osteophyte initiation and formation in the
non inflammatory or mildly inflammatory knee of the dog. clin orthop., 62: 37.
nature of osteoarthritis and in ruling out Mazzuca, S. A., (1999). Field test of the rep
septic, immune-mediated, acutely -roducibility of automated measurements
traumatic, or neoplastic processes. It is of medial tiofemoral joint space width
claimed to be the best method to diagnosed derived from standardized knee radiogra
and monitor degenerative diseases however -phs. J Rheum., 26(6); 1359-1365.
synovial fluid analysis alone cannot always Morgan J. P. (1969). Radiological patholog
differentiate osteoarthritic joints from -y and diagnosis of degenerative joint
healthy one. Synovial fluid color, turbidity, disease in the stifle joint of the dog.
and viscosity can be easily assessed at the Journal of small animalpractice, 10:541.
time of collection or when the sample is Morgan, J. P., R. R. Pool and T.
expelled onto a glass slide (Parry 1999). Miyabayasi (1987). Primary
Synovial fluid from inflammatory joints degenerative disease of shoulder. J. Am
shows variable discoloration and decreased Vet Med assoc., 190: 531.
viscosity. Discoloration may be because of Parry, B. W. (1999). S ynovial fluid analys
pleocytosis and decrease in viscosity -is. In: Diagnostic Cytology and Hemato
caused by a deficiency of polymerized -logy of the Dog and Cat (ed.) Cowell
hyaluronic acid or a dilution from excess R. L., R.D. Tyler, and J. H. Meinkoth ,
serum. (Hopper, 1993) Synovial fluid was Mosby, pp. 104-119.
noted to be either colorless, yellow tinged, Poulos, P. W. (1982). Canine
hemorrhagic, aqueous or viscous in dogs of osteochondrosis. Vet. Clin North Am
the three group in present study. Small Anim Pract., 12:313.
Glucosamine and chondroitin Vasseur, P.B., H. D. Egryse and B.
sulphates combination was found to Vanryssen (1992). Progression of stifle
suppress the hematological parameters osteoarthrosis following reconstruction
slightly in all the groups however its of the cranial cruciate ligament in 21
chondroprotective property has been dogs. Journal of the American animal
proved with the recovered radiographic hospital association, 28:129.
changes from osteoarthritis at different
intervals in all the groups.

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 41 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 A REPORT ON APHAKIC VISION FOLLOWING
PHACOEMULSIFICATION AND INTRAOCULAR LENS
POWER REQUIREMENTS IN CATS
C. Ramani1, N.J.D’Souza2, M.K. Ahirwar3, L. Nagarajan4 and B.J. William5
1
Professor, 2PhD student, 3MVSc student, 4Professor, 5Professor and Head, Deptt. of Veterinary
Surgery and Radiology, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai - 600 007 (TN).
[Received: 31.12.2013; Accepted: 22.5.2014]

Introduction measured in order to deterimine an

Cats show a relatively low appropriate IOL power for implantation in
prevalence of cataracts when compared future cat eyes that undergo
with other companion animals. Among phacoemulsification. The study was
which the incidence of primary and performed in five eyes of three cats at the
congenital cataracts are rare when Ophthalmology Unit of the Department of
compared with secondary cataracts. Most Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Madras
secondary cataracts in cats are associated Veterinary College.
with trauma, anterior uveitis, lens luxations
(Frankel, 2001) and nutritional Materials and methods
abnormalities such as nutritional secondary The cats were routinely screened for
hyperparathyroidism, hypocalcemia and the presence of any systemic diseases. A
diabetes (Richter et al., 2002). The mean detailed ophthalmic examination was
age of presentation of primary age related performed including an assessment of
cataracts in cats is over 17.5 years visual acuity by visual placement reflexes,
(Williams and Heath, 2006). The surgical pupillary light responses, dazzle reflexes
correction of cataract by and menace responses. Keratometry and A-
phacoemulsification is indicated in order to mode ultrasonic biometry using a 10MHz
restore the vision lost due to the cataract. linear transducer in amplitude mode
Phacoemulsification when performed provided the measured input variables for
without the implantation of an intraocular the calculation of the appropriate IOL
lens (IOL), results in an aphakic visual power required for the particular eyes.
outcome ie. the restoration of vision with a Routine single hand phacoemulsification
lower visual acuity due to the lack of a lens technique was performed in all eyes. The
to focus the incoming light onto the retina. neuroophthalmic tests were repeated 30
The study aimed at evaluating the aphakic days after surgery in order to determine the
visual following phacoemulsification visual rehabilitation achieved after the
without the implantation of an IOL. The pre surgery. (Fig 1)
and post-operative biometric changes were

PRE-OPERATIVE KERATOMETRY INTRA-OPERATIVE

PHACOEMULSIFICATION POST-OPERATIVE

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 42 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 70
60
50
AL (mm)
40
ACD (mm)
30
20 LT (mm)

10 IOL Diopter (D)

0
1 2 3 4 5

Fig 1 : Axial length, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness and their correspondion
intraocular lens power.

Results and Discussion

Mean pre-operative axial length Results of a study conducted by Mirshahi et
(AL) - 18.53±0.23mm, anterior chamber al., (2012) were also of a similar opinion
depth (ACD) - 4.74±0.34mm and lens stating that the AL of the globe, ACD and
thickness (LT) - 6.27±0.34mm. Gilger et LT were 20.693 ± 0.972mm, 4.140 ±
al., (1998) stated that the mean AL of eyes 0.667mm and 7.718 ± 0.534mm
in live cats was 20.91 ± 0.53 mm, the mean respectively. The author was also of the
pre-operative ACD was 5.07 ± 0.36mm, opinion that no significant difference was
mean LT was 7.77 ± 0.23mm and post- found between the ocular biometry of the
operative ACD was 8.28 - 10.84mm. The left and right eyes.

TABLE I : Biometry, Keratometry and IOL power calculations

Eye 1 2 3 4 5 Mean±SE
Axial length :
Pre-op 18.31 19.15 18.99 17.97 18.23 18.53±0.23
Post-op 17.62 18.81 19.24 17.09 18.20 18.19±0.39
Anterior chamber depth :
Pre-op 4.21 4.21 4.83 6.01 4.44 4.74±0.34
Post-op 5.85 5.44 5.02 5.66 4.86 5.36±0.19
Lens thickness 7.13 7.05 5.82 5.78 5.58 6.27±0.34
K1 :
Pre-op 40.00 40.25 38.75 41.00 41.00 40.2±0.41
Post-op 40.50 40.25 40.00 41.50 41.75 40.8±0.35
K2 :
Pre-op 39.50 40.25 39.25 41.50 40.75 40.25±0.41
Post-op 39.75 40.00 39.50 41.50 41.00 40.35±0.38
IOL power 53.49 47.49 51.34 58.49 52.79 52.72±3.59

On 30th Post-operative day the no significant difference between the pre

operated eyes showed a mean axial length and post-operative values. The post-
of 18.19±0.39mm and anterior chamber operative increase in anterior chamber
depth 5.36±0.19mm. The K1 and K2 values depth and decrease in axial length was as a
were similar for all eyes and ranged from result of removal of the lens material.
38.75 to 41.5D pre-operatively and show Gilger et al.,(1998) was of the opinion that
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 43 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
a 52 to 53D intraocular lens would be P.B.,1998. Keratometry, ultrasonic
required to correct feline eyes to near biometry, and prediction of
emmetropia after lens removal were found intraocular lens power in the feline eye.
to be in accordance with that observed in Am. J. Vet. Res., 59(2) : 131-134.
this study of 52.72±3.59D. The Haigis Gilger, B.C., Davidson M. G., Colitz C. M.,
formula was used for the calculation of IOL 1998. Experimental implantation of
power. posterior chamber prototype
All eyes showed functional aphakic intraocular lenses for the feline eye.
vision post-operatively from day 7 Am. J. Vet. Res., 59(10) :1339- 1343.
onwards. Positive visual placement tests, Mirshahi, A., Shafigh S., Azizzadeh M.,
dazzle reflexes and menace responses were 2012. B-mode ultrasound of the
elicited when the animal was forced to use normal eye in Persian cats. 16th IVRA
the operated eye in the case of the unilateral meeting and EVDI annual meeting
cataract as well as in both cases of bilateral 2012, 08-26.
cataracts. Mild fibrin deposits were noticed Richter M., Guscetti F., Spiess B., 2002.
in the anterior chamber as the only Aldose reductase activity and glucose-
complication post-operatively which related opacities in incubated lenses
regressed over the next 2 weeks. The post- from dogs and cats. Am. J. Vet. Res.,
operative topical medication was continued 63, 11, 1591- 1597.
for a period of 1 month after surgery. Williams, D. L. and Heath M. F., 2006.
Prevalence of feline cataract: results of
References a cross-sectional study of 2000 normal
Frankel, D.J., 2001. Malnutrition-induced animals, 50 cats with diabetes and one
cataracts in an orphaned kitten. Can. hundred cats following dehydrational
Vet. J., 42, 653 - 654. crises. Vet. Ophthalmol. 9, 5, 341–34.
Gilger, B.C., Davidson M.G., Howard

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 44 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF SOFT TISSUE SARCOMA
IN A DOG
Ramesh Rathod, A.S. Patil, L. Ranganath, B.N. Nagaraja, A. Anirudh
and Ravikumar
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College, Bangalore 560024.
[Received: 06.3.2013; Accepted: 03.1.2014]

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are aspect of the neck for last one month which
mesenchymal tumors arising from was refractory to medical treatment. On
connective tissue elements and are grouped physical examination animal was having
together based on a common biologic pyrexia with 103.80 F, elevated heart rate
behavior. The most common histologic and respiratory rate. On physical palpation
types include malignant peripheral nerve hard mass was felt, not adhering to cervical
sheath tumors (schwannoma and bone suggestive of tumour (Fig.1). It was
neurofibrosarcoma) decided for surgical excision under general
“hemangiopericytoma,” fibrosarcoma, and anesthesia.
malignant fibrous histiocytoma. These Dog was prepared for aseptic
tumors are relatively slow growing yet surgery and premedicated with Atropine
locally invasive with a high rate of sulphate @ 0.045 mg/kg body weight
recurrence following conservative subcutaneous, pre-emptive analgesia with
management (Dernell et al., 1998). Fourie pentazocin @ 1 mg/kg intramuscular,
et al., (2011) reported Soft tissue sarcomas sedation with triflupromazine Hcl @ 1
are a group of malignant cancers that arise mg/kg intravenous. After 10 minutes,
from the skin and subcutaneous connective anaesthesia was induced with 2.5%
tissues, such as fat (liposarcoma), muscle thiopental intravenously and maintained
(rhabdomyosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma), under halothane oxygen mixture.
cartilage (chondrosarcoma), fibrous Surgical site was painted with
connective tissue (fibrosarcoma), nerves povidone iodine. Two curvilinear incisions
(schwannoma, malignant peripheral nerve were made on the mass in such a way that
sheath tumor, neurofibrosarcoma) and the both incisions were touched on each side to
“pericytes” of small blood vessels in the make it crescent shaped. Mass was
subcutis (hemangiopericytoma). These separated from its attachment by blunt
tumors are often considered collectively dissection (Fig.2). All bleeding points were
because of their similarity in clinical arrested by ligation with chromic catgut
behavior. As such, local regrowth of the size-0. Subcutaneous suturing was done
tumor is common after conservative with chromic catgut size-0 in simple
surgical removal. Soft tissue sarcomas are continuous manner and skin was opposed
graded as low, intermediate, or high grade. with linex size-0 in horizontal mattress.
Most soft tissue sarcomas are low to The excised mass upon examination
intermediate grade, and have a relatively was hard and weighing about 200gms
low chance of spreading to other places which was preserved in neutral buffer
(metastatic rate of less than 25%). High solution and sent for histopathology which
grade sarcomas have a higher potential for was confirmed as soft tissue sarcoma. Post-
metastasis (25-40%). operatively, ceftriaxone (20mg/kg) was
A six year old dog was presented to administered for 7 days systemically. Skin
the Veterinary College Hospital, Bangalore sutures were removed on 10th post-
with a history of swelling over the ventral operative day and Animal

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 45 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

recovered uneventfully.

Ehrhart, N. (2005) reported References

Chemotherapy is often recommended as an Dernell, W.S., Withrow, S.J. Kuntz, C.A.
adjunctive treatment for high-grade soft- and Powers, B.E. 1998.Principles
tissue sarcomas because of their higher of treatment for soft tissue sarcoma
metastasis rates when compared to low-or Surgical Oncology. 13(1): 59–64.
intermediate-grade soft-tissue sarcomas but Ehrhart, N. 2005. Soft-Tissue Sarcomas in
in the present case chemotherapy was not Dogs: A Review. J. Am. Anim.
advised and over a period of nine month Hosp. Assoc. 41(4): 241-246.
follow-up, there was no reoccurrence. Fourie, Y., Heidenreich, D. and Barreau, P.
Gandi and Vivekanand et al., (2012) 2011. Canine distal hindlimb soft
reported rhabdosarcoma at maxillofacial tissue sarcoma – a novel approach
region in two dogs and stated that both to surgical defect closure. Vet.
dogs were subjected to surgical excision Comp. Orthop. Traumatol.1:84-88.
but died within two months after the Gandi, L. and Vivekanand, S. 2012.
surgical excision. Maxillofacial rhabdomyosarcoma in
the canine maxillofacial area. Vet.
World. 5(9): 565-567.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 46 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOSARCOMA IN A DOG
A. Anirudh, K.M. Srinivasa Murthy and L. Ranganath
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College, Bangalore-24.
[Received: 02.122013; Accepted: 15.5.2014]

Introduction swelling may become evident as the tumor

Approximately 85% of bone size increases. As the degree of discomfort
tumors in dogs are osteosarcomas. increases, it can cause other signs such as
Osteosarcomas are highly aggressive irritability, aggression, loss of appetite,
tumors, characterized by painful local bone weight loss, sleeplessness, or reluctance to
destruction and distant metastasis (spread exercise.
to other organs). Osteosarcoma commonly Case history and Observations
affects the limbs of large or giant breed A Nine year old Male Non
dogs, but can also occur in other parts of descript dog was presented to the
the skeleton (skull, ribs, vertebrae, and Veterinary College Hospital, Bangalore
pelvis). The biological behaviour, with a history of lameness and a huge
prognosis, and treatment of bone tumors swelling on the left hind limb since 4
depend on tumor type, primary site months. (Fig 1) The animal evinced a lot
(location), and extent of disease (stage). of pain on palpation of the left hind limb
Therefore, various diagnostic tests such as with non weight bearing lameness.
radiographs, blood tests, and sometimes a Radiographs of the left femoral and the
biopsy are required to determine the most tibial region revealed severe osteolytic
appropriate treatment. The signs associated changes with a sun-burst appearance in the
with a bone tumor may be nonspecific. left tibia characteristic of osteosarcoma
Tumors in the limbs often cause various (Fig 2). A lateral chest radiograph revealed
degrees of lameness and pain, and a firm radiodense masses suggestive of metastasis.

Fig. 1 – Huge swelling on the left femoral region Fig. 2 – Radiographic evaluation showing indications
of osteosarcoma
Treatment and discussion sodium at dose rate of 25 mg/kg body
Dog was prepared for aseptic weight given to effect. An amputation of
surgery and premedicated with Atropine the left hindlimb was performed. (Fig.3 and
sulphate @ 0.04 mg/kg body weight Fig.4).
subcutaneously and Triflupromazine Post-operatively, Ceftriaxone
hydrochloride @ 1 mg/kg body weight (20mg/kg) was given for 7 days
intravenously. After 10 minutes, animal intramuscularly BID. Skin sutures were
was anesthetized with 2.5% Thiopentone
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 47 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
removed on 10th post-operative day and animal recovered uneventfully.
.

Fig. 3 – Amputatation of hind limb Fig. 4 – Amputated left hind limb

Amputation is almost always A case of osteosarcoma and its

well tolerated by the patient – dogs with 3 successful management with amputation is
legs can do virtually everything that 4- reported.
legged dogs can do. The surgery serves two References :
purposes; it removes the primary tumor, Bennet D., 2004. Feline bone diseases. In:
which is necessary for cancer control, but it European society of Veterinary
also removes the source of pain, and may Orthopaedics and traumatology
therefore dramatically improve quality of congress, Munich, proceedings,
life. Amputation is usually curative with 12:.15-16.
regard to the local tumor, except in cases of Jongeward, S.J., 1985. Primary bone
proximal femoral or proximal humoral tumors. Vet. Clin. N. Am.: Small
lesions with extensive soft tissue Anim. Pract. 15: 609- 641.
involvement, where stump recurrence can Kuntz, C.A., 2001. Canine osteosarcoma.
occur. Surgical excision is indicated for In: Malawer, M.M., Sugarbaker, p.h.
lesions of the flat bones as well, where (eds). musculoskeletal cancer surgery:
practicable. The most common cause of treatment of sarcomas and allied
death is lung metastasis (spread), and diseases. Norwell: kluwer academic
amputation alone results in average publishers, pp.:601-606.
survival times of only approximately 4
months.
*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 48 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 A CASE OF CANINE TRANSMISIBLE VENEREAL TUMOUR
IN A MALE DOG AND ITS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
Jayakrushna Das1, Sidhartha Sankar Behera1, S.K. Panda2, P.K. Rath2,
M. Behera2 and S. Pati2
1
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, 2Department of Veterinary Pathology, 3Department
of Veterinary Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, OUAT,
Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751 003, India.
[Received: 13.12.2013; Accepted: 25.5.2014]

Introduction Case history and Clinical Observations

Tumours of the reproductive A 4 years old male non-descript
organs are common (Slatter, 2003). But dog weighing 27 kg body weight was
tumours of the penis and prepuce are fairly presented at Department of Veterinary
common in the horse, mule, ass and dog Surgery and Radiology, C.V.Sc. and AH,
(O’ Connor, 2005). Canine transmissible OUAT, Bhubaneswar with complaint of
venereal tumour (CTVT) is a neoplasm of tenesmus during urination, dribbling of
external genitalia in dogs transmitted by the urine with serosanguineous discharge,
physical transfer of viable tumour cells by sniffing and leaking to the genital area and
direct contact with injured skin and/or unable to retract the penis inside prepucial
mucous tissue. These cells can transpose sheath (Fig.1). All the clinical parameters
across histocompatibility barriers into recorded like rectal temperature (1020 F),
unrelated hosts (Stockmann et al., 2011). It respiration rate (20/min.), heart rate
is most common during the period of (80/min) were within the normal range.
maximum sexual activity in dogs and the Suspecting it for urolithiasis it was
animals are particularly at highest risk examined under C-arm but no finding about
when females exhibit the signs of oestrus. urinary calculi was observed. On clinical
Dogs of any breed, age or sex are examination multilobular mass on base of
susceptible (Kimeto and Mugera, 1974; penis mucosa was found. Previously there
Betamuzi, 1992). Although dogs over one was history of occurrence of the same type
year of age are at high risk in endemic tumour in that area. Tentatively it was
areas, but is most common in dogs of 2 to 5 diagnosed as CTVT and decided for
years old (Higgins, 1966; Pandey et al., surgical correction.
1977). This CTVT comprise papillomata,
fibromata, sarcomata, melanomata, Surgical procedure
myxomata, adenomata, carcinomata and After a routine preoperative fasting
cysts (O’ Connor, 2005) and also known by the dog was premedicated with mixture of
various names such as stickers tumour, Atropine sulphate @ 0.04 mg/kg body
venereal granuloma, canine condyloma, weight, Xylazine hydrochloride @ 1 mg/kg
transmissible sarcoma, transmissible body weight and Ketamine hydrochloride
lymphosarcoma, histosarcoma and so on. @ 5 mg/kg body weight in cocktail mixture
This affects the external genitalia and is intramuscularly. The anaesthesia was
transmitted from animal to animal through maintained with a top-up using Ketamine
sexual contacts but may also occurs by dog hydrochloride through the venous port used
bites, sniffs or licks the tumour affected for normal saline solution (NSS). The dog
areas ( Bloom, 1954; Das et al., 1989; was restrained on lateral recumbency and
Khan et al., 2009 ). the upper hind limb was tied to operation
table in elevated manner for convenience.

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 49 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

The operation site was routinely prepared aseptically for surgery. By retraction of the
prepucial sheath, the penis was protruded encircling the base of penis (Fig. 2).
and it showed large cauliflower like masses

Fig.1. Protrusion of penis with cauliflower Fig.2. Preparation of site for surgery
like growth at the base

Fig.3. Excision of tumour mass by introducing Fig.4. Excised tumour mass

naso-gastric feeding tube in to urethra

Fig.5. Suturing of damaged mucosa Fig.6. Reposition of penis inside the prepucial sheath

A nasogastric feeding tube was possible to reach at that part by simple

introduced into the urethral orifice and the retraction of the penile sheath. Hence the
multi lobulated cauliflower like masses site was cauterized with silver nitrate stick
were excised carefully without affecting the and simultaneously neutralizing with
penis (Fig. 3,4). During excision some normal saline. The incised edges of the
portion of mucus membrane was injured penile mucous membrane were sutured
and still some mass was remained at the with chromic catgut no 2-0 with needle
base of the penis. As the tumour mass was (Fig.5). Terramycine topical lotion was
closely attached to the base, so it was not instilled at the site and inj. Adrenaline was
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 50 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
sprayed to control capillary bleeding and dextrose solution weekly once for 3 weeks.
then the penis was released into the sheath During that period the dog was monitored
after fixing a nasogastric feeding tube to properly and nutrious food, multivitamins
the wall of the prepuce (Fig.6). Post- and liver tonics were recommended to
operatively the dog was treated with inj. of eliminate the stress. The tissue sample was
Ceftriaxone @ 10 mg/kg body weight for 7 sent for histopathological examination.
days, inj Meloxicam @ 0.2 mg/kg
bodyweight for 3 days. The prepucial Results and Discussion
sheath was flushed daily with topical The histopathology of the tissue
antiseptic lotion with a 2 ml syringe for a sample showed round and oval cells having
week. For complete removal of the left over fine granular acidophilic cytoplasm and
portion of tumour mass at the base, large hyperchromatic nucleus with fine
chemotherapy was decided to use. It was connective tissue stroma, which was
achieved with inj. of Vincristine sulphate suggestive of venereal granuloma (Fig.7).
@ 0.025 mg/kg body weight with 10% The dog showed normal

Fig.7. Photomicrograph of excised tumour tissue (H & E X 400)

urination without any difficulty after 10th obscure. Some opined it as viral origin
day of operation when the catheter was while others as C type of virus like particle
removed. There was no serosanguinous associated with CTVT (Khan et al., 2009).
discharge from the prepucial sheath. The In these the metastasis is rare occurring in
owner was advised to avoid mating and not less than 5-17 % of cases (Richardson,
to allow outside for mixing with other 1981; Rogers, 1997) but is reported to be
dogs. Generally the CTVT occurs naturally high in puppies and immune compromised
on the genitals of both male and female dogs (Yang, 1988). According to O’
dogs. In male dogs it is located on the penis Connor (2005) complete surgical excision
or praeputium and in females it is present is the choice for treatment. Regarding
on the vagina or labia. CTVT has chemotherapy three consecutive injection
cauliflower-like shape and it could be of Vincristine sulphate @ 0.025 mg/kg
pendular, nodous, papilar or multilobular body weight once weekly for 4 weeks by
(Das and Das, 2000). Usually the pet owner slow I/V route revealed promising result
encounters the problem when the pets are (Athar et al., 2001; Barragry, 1994; Ganesh
in suffering stage. At the initial stage if et al., 1993; Khan et al., 2009). But the
those can be presented simply with present case was with acute problem in
chemotherapy can solve the condition. But dribbling of urine and feeling much pain
in delayed case both surgical and while urination, so surgical excision was
chemotherapy are needed which have adopted. When the tumourous mass are
occurred in the present case. The CTVT very numerous, successive operations at
which has the highest percentage of intervals of a week may be necessary and
incidence in canines but still the cause is when there lies suspicion of recurrence in
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 51 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
the operation case, the latter should be seen in the Bahamas. Veterinary Record,
cauterised with silver nitrate (O’ Connor, 79: 67-71.
2005). In this case owing to the close Khan, L. A., Khante, G. S., Raut, B. M.,
adherence to the base, so was cauterized Bodkhe, A. M., Chavan, M. S., Pagrut,
with silver nitrate. Here the dog was N. S. and Bobde, S. P. (2009). Incidence
followed for six months and there was no of Venereal Granuloma and its Medicina
sign of recurrence. -l treatment in stray dogs of Nagpur city.
Veterinary World.2 (1): 13-14.
References Kimeto, B. and Mugera, G.M. (1974).
Ather, A., Suhail, A., Muhammad, G., Transmissible venereal tumour of dog in
Shakoor, A. and Azim, F. (2001). Kenya. Bulletin of Animal Health and
Clinico-therapeutic studies on canine Production, 22: 327-329.
transmissible venereal tumour. Pakistan O’Connor, J. J. (2005). Dollar’s Veterinary
Vet. J. 21 (1): 39-43. Surgery. 4th edn. Pp. 754-756. CBS
Barragry, T. B. (1994). Veterinary drug Publishers and Distributors.
therapy. Lea and Febiger, Pandey, S.K., Dhawedkar, R.G. and Patel,
Philadelphia.pp.919-39. M.R. (1977). Canine transmissible
Betamuzi, E.K. (1992). Risk factors associ- venereal sarcoma. Clinical trial with
ated with canine TVT in Tanzania.Preve autogenous formalized vaccine. Indian
-ntive Veterinary Medicine, 13: 13-17. Veterinary Journal, 54: 852-853.
Bloom, F. (1954). Pathology of dog and Richardson, R. C. (1981). Canine
cat. American veterinary publication Transmissible Venereal Tumor. Comp
Eastern Illinois. Pp. 275. contin Educ Prac Vet, 3: 951-956.
Das, A.K., Das,U., Das,D.K. and Sengupta, Rogers, K. S. (1997). Transmissible
J.(1989). Metastasis of canine transmissi Venereal Tumor. Comp contin Educ
-ble of venereal sarcoma in a dog. Ind. Prac Vet, 19 (9): 1036-1045.
Vet. J. 10 (1): 74-75. Slatter, D. (2003). Text book of small
Das, U. and Das, A.K. (2000). Review of animal surgery. 3rd edn. Saunders, an
canine transmissible venereal sarcoma. imprint of Elsevier Science (USA). Pp.
Veterinary Research Communications, 2437.
24 (8): 545-556. Stockmann, D., Ferrari, H.F., Andrade,
Ganesh, T.N., Kumar, B.R., David, W.P.A. A.L., Lopes, R.A., Cardoso, T.C. and
Balasubramanian, N.N., Pattabiraman, Luvizotto, M.C.R. (2011). Canine
S.R. and Mohammed, M.S.D.M. (1993). Transmissible Venereal Tumors:
Clinical trial on the effect of Vincristine Aspects Related to Programmed Cell
on transmissible venereal tumours in Death. Braz J Vet Pathol, 4(1): 67-75.
dogs. Indian Vet. J. 70: 559-61. Yang, T. J. (1988). Immunobiology of a
Higgins, D.A. (1966). Observations on the spontaneously venereal sarcoma
canine transmissible venereal tumour as (Review). Anticancer Res, 8: 9.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 52 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF INGUINAL HERNIA
IN A MALE DOG
S. Ravikumar and L. Ranganath
Department of Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College, KVAFSU, Bangalore-24.
[Received: 20.2.2014; Accepted: 05.6.2014]

Introduction measured were within normal range. Based

Inguinal hernias are protrusions of on history and clinical examination the case
organs or tissues through the inguinal canal was diagnosed as inguinal hernia.
adjacent to the vaginal process. It may arise
as a result of a congenital inguinal ring Surgical treatment
abnormality or may occur following The patient was premedicated with
trauma. The inguinal ring defect allows 0.045 mg/kg Atropine sulphate, SC and
abdominal contents (e.g., intestine, bladder, 1 mg/kg diazepam, IV and was induced
uterus, omentem) to enter subcutaneous with 25 mg/kg thiopentone sodium IV
spaces (Bojrab et al., 1998). It can be given to effect. General anesthesia was
unilateral or bilateral and frequently maintained with isoflurane anaesthesia. The
reported in females than males. Factors patient received an IV constant rate
potentially involved in the development of infusion of an isotonically balanced
inguinal hernias may be anatomical, electrolyte solution at a rate of 10 mL/kg
hormonal, and/or metabolic in nature (Read throughout the surgery. The patient was
and Bellenger 2003 and Smeak 1993). placed in dorsal recumbency, and the
Clinical signs often reflect the size of the ventral abdomen was aseptically prepared
hernia and hernial contents and range from in a standard fashion (Fig.1). An incision
a painless inguinal mass to signs related to was made over inguinal swelling to allow
incarcerated or non viable intestine. exposure of hernial sac. Hernial sac
Diagnosis of inguinal hernia might be contained omentum (Fig. 2). Adhesions
accomplished by history, clinical signs, between the omentum and hernial sac were
radiography and ultrasonography. In the separated. Contents were reduced back to
present paper a rare case of inguinal hernia the abdominal cavity. Hernial sac was
in a male dog and its successful surgical excised at its neck. The hernial ring was
management is reported. closed with polyglactin 910 No. 1 size by
simple interrupted pattern (Fig. 3). Care
Case history and observations was taken to avoid the damage for external
A male non descript dog of 10 years pudendal vessel and genitor femoral nerve.
old weighing about 25 kgs was presented The subcutaneous tissue was sutured in a
with the complaint of huge swelling in the simple interrupted pattern using polyglactin
right side of the penis increasing since two 910 No. 0 to obliterate the dead space. Skin
months. On clinical examination the was closed by No. 0 polyamide suture in
swelling was found extending from right horizontal mattress pattern. Post
inguinal region to the penis. Physical operatively animal was administered with
examination revealed no pain on palpation inj. Ceftriaxone Sodium (Intacef, Intas
howeve, the contents of the swelling were pharmaceuticals Ltd., Ahmedabad) at the
reducible. Appetite, capillary refill time, dose rate of 20 mg/kg body weight IV for a
heart rate, respiration rate and rectal period of 5 days. Meloxicam at the dose
temperature were within normal range. rate of 0.3 mg/kg body weight was
Haemoglobin and packed cell volume administered daily once for three days SC.

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 53 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

Skin sutures were removed on 10th post- operative day.

Fig. 1: Showing swelling at the right inguinal Fig. 2: Intraoperative photograph showing hernial
region contents and hernial ring

Fig. 3: Closing of internal inguinal ring

Result and discussion vascular obstruction of the intestine occur.

Data from male dogs with inguinal Long standing hernias are more likely to be
hernia that have undergone herniorrhaphy large and unnoticed. Large hernias are less
are limited. Inguinal hernia has been likely to become incarcerated than small
classified as congenital and acquired hernias. Experimental evidence suggests
(Waters et al., 1993). The dog in this report that sex hormones may influence the
was 10 years old, and the history of development of inguinal hernia in mice
hyperactivity like jumping and barking (Hazary and Gardener 1960). The role of
suggests an acquired cause of hernia. It trauma in the development of inguinal
seems that the protrusion of the omentum hernia remains unclear. The contribution of
in right inguinal canal, concurrent with other factors, such as tensmus, vigorous
adhesions to the sac may be explained by physical activity, or obesity, has not been
the distinct role of the hyperactivity and investigated. Inguinal hernias are
harmonal influence worsening the hernias reportedly rare in male dogs. Congenital
and development of clinical signs too. The inguinal hernia in dogs are more common
risk for nonviable small intestine in dogs in males than females (Waters et al., 1993).
with longstanding inguinal hernia is Due to the absence of incarceration and
relatively low (less than 5%). This could be intestinal perforation or leakage in this
because of small hernias go unnoticed until reported case, the prognosis was evaluated
pain or vomition caused by mechanical or to be good. Unilateral hernias are much

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 54 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

more common than bilateral hernias. References
Bilateral hernias seem to occur more Bojrab, M.J., Ellison, G.W.,and Scolum, B.
frequently in young dogs. Despite the low (1998) Current Techniques in Small
prevalence of bilateral hernias, careful Animal Surgery. 4th edn, Williams &
palpation of the contra lateral inguinal Wilkins. pp. 552-554.
region for occult hernias is recommended. Fossum, T. W., Choyl, S, H., Donald, A,
Surgical management of inguinal hernia H., Ann, L, J., Howard, B, S. and
consists of identification of the hernia sac, Michael, D, W. (2002). Mosby Inc.
assessment of the viability of the hernia missouri.. Small Animal Surgery.
contents, surgical resection of nonviable 2nd. edn. Mosby Elsevier. 261- 267.
tissue, herniorrhaphy, and, in some Grier, R. L., Hoskins, J. D. and Wahlstrom.
instances, neutering. Herniorrhaphy by (1971). Inguinal hernia and Richter's
simple interrupted or mattress sutures has hernia in a dog. J. Am. Vet. Med.
been reported as effective (Parks, 1981). Assoco 159: 181-183.
Omentum is reportedly the most common Hazary, S. and Gardener, W.V., 1960. The
content present in canine inguinal hernia influenee of sex harmones on abdomi
(Bojrab et al., 1998; Fossum et al., 2002; nal musculature and the formation of
Grier et al., 1971; Waters et al., 1993). The inguinal and scrotal hernias in mice.
omentum was also the main content of the Anat. Rec., 136: 431
right inguinal sac in this case too. The Parks, J. (1981). Herniation. In:
presence of the omentum may account for Pathophysiology in Small Animal
the asymptomatic nature and benign course Surgery. (Bojrab MJ, ed.).
of inguinal hernia in many dogs. However, Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger. pp. 420-424.
the omentum may occasionally become Read, R. A. and Bellenger, C. R.
incarcerated, resulting in clinical signs that (2003) Hernias, In: SlatterD. ed.
include pain and depression (Waters et al., Textbook of Small Animal Surgery.
1993). Small intestine viability is an Philadelphia: WB Saunders; pp. 446–
important factor in determining whether 470.
herniorrhaphy is an elective or an Smeak, D. A. (1993) Abdominal hernias,
emergency procedure. Complications in In: Bojrab M J. ed. Disease Mechanis
dogs treated surgically for inguinal hernia -ms in Small Animal Surgery. Malver
are incisional infection, wound dehiscence, -n, PA: Lea & Febiger;, pp. 98–102.
hematoma, seroma, excessive postoperative Waters, D.J., Roy, R.G. and Stone, E.A.
swelling, hernia recurrence, sepsis or (1993). A retrospective study of
peritonitis and death. The reported case did inguinal hernia in 35 dogs. Vet. Surg.,
not show any form of complications having 22(1): 44-49.
been monitored for six months.

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Indian Journal of Canine Practice 55 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 MANDIBULAR FRACTURE AND ITS SURGICAL
MANAGEMENT IN A DOG
Jayakrushna Das, Sidhartha Sankar Behera and Ananta Hembram
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal
Husbandry, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology. Bhubaneswar-751003, Odisha.
[Received: 19.2.2014; Accepted: 04.6.2014]

A 3 years old male Spitz dog weighing 8 kg body weight was presented at the Department of Veterinary
Surgery and Radiology with complaint of hanging of anterior part of lower jaw after automobile accident.
Examination confirmed complete and open left side mandible fracture. The fracture was corrected surgically using
Steinman's pinning. Proper post-operative care was taken and clinical union was seen after 5th weeks. Then the
pin was removed and the animal recovered successfully.
Keywords: Automobile accident, dog, mandibular fracture, Steinman's pinning.

Introduction A 3 years old male Spitz dog

Fractures of the mandible are very weighing 8 kg body weight was presented
common in dog and cat (Newton and at the Department of Veterinary Surgery
Nunamaker, 1985) and fractures and Radiology, C.V.Sc. and AH, OUAT,
particularly in the premolar region are most Bhubaneswar with complaint of hanging of
common in the dog accounting with 31% of anterior part of lower jaw after automobile
all types of mandibular fractures. accident since 3 days (Fig.1). There was
Automobile trauma being the most difficulty in taking both liquid and solid
common cause and most patients are food and drooling of blood stained saliva
young, having a mean age of 3 years and halitosis. Palpation of the area elicited
(Umphlet and Johnson, 1990) and almost pain and there was open and complete
50% of the affected dogs are less than one fracture of left mandible just before the
year of age (Goeggerle et al., 1996). canine teeth. The left side of lip was injured
Mandibular fractures are usually bilateral; with development of maggoted wound. On
result from trauma, severe periodontitis or clinical examination the temperature, heart
neoplasia (Fossum, 2002) and invariably rate and respiration were within normal
involve the mandibular symphysis (Singh range. Radiographic examination was done
et al., 1993). Oral trauma, dropped jaw, by C-arm which revealed single transverse
ptyalism, oedema and pain on palpation at fracture of left mandible without involving
mandible are the diagnostic clinical signs of other part. Basing on case history, physical
the condition (Roux, 2007). The and radiographic examination the case was
configuration of fracture and extent of diagnosed as unilateral mandibular fracture
damage to bony tissue can only be ruled out and hence decided for surgical correction
after radiographic examination (Dabas and by intramedullary pinning.
Chaudhari, 2013). The healing of most
mandibular fractures is rapid enough and Surgical procedure
generally heal without a large callus (Owen On the day of presentation the
et al., 2004). The present paper puts on wound was dressed properly with antiseptic
record of a case of unilateral mandibular and maggacide lotion along with parenteral
fracture in Spitz dog and its successful antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents.
surgical management with Steinmann’s pin. Oral cavity was cleaned with chlorhexidine
solution mouth wash. It was followed for 3
Case history and Clinical Observations consecutive days and at the time of wound
healing it was planned for surgical

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 56 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

interference. Under fasting for 16 hours it under guidance of C-arm examination
was premedicated with atropine sulphate @ (Fig.2). The extra portion of the pin was cut
0.04 mg/kg body weight intramuscularly by pin cutter. Post-operatively the dog was
before 20 minutes of operation. Then treated with inj. of Ceftriaxone @ 10 mg/kg
Xylazine @ 1 mg/kg intramuscularly and body weight for 7 days and inj. Meloxicam
Ketamine @ 8 mg/kg body weight @ 0.2 mg/kg bodyweight for 3 days. Inj. B-
intravenously was administered. Fluid complex was administered for 3 days along
therapy was maintained with Ketamine in with regular mouth wash was carried out
“top-up” form until the end of surgery. The with chlorhexidine. The owner was advised
mouth cavity was washed and cleaned to provide only liquid food and to use
properly with chlorhexidine solution. The muzzle regularly. After 5th week there was
fractured fragments of the mandible were clinical bony union observed. So the pin
immobilized using Steinman’s pin of was removed. The patient showed mild jaw
suitable size via normograde fashion by movement which was gradually improved.
means of electrically operated orthopaedic There were no post operative complications
drill. Drilling procedure was conducted marked and animal recovered well.

Fig.1. Mandibular fracture Fig.2. C-arm examination after intramedullary pinning

Results and Discussion the fracture fragments (Olmstead, 2010). In

Approximately, 1.5 to 2% of the present case it was not required to go
fractures in dogs involve mandible for mandibulectomy as it was a clear
(Umphlet and Johnson, 1990 and positive fracture and the intramedullary
Goeggerle et al., 1996) and 70% of them pinning was able to correct the condition.
are open fractures. Most jaw fractures are In general healing is rapid in roastal
open with varying degrees of mandible but more delayed in the caudal
contamination and infection. The region (Gonul et al., 2009). Many cases are
complications use to occur in jaw fractures functionally healed up within 2–3 weeks,
is as high as 34% of cases. Nearly 2/3 of with a reported average healing time
those complications involved dental between 5.5 and 6.3 weeks (Owen et al.,
malocclusion or osteomyelitis (Piermattei 2004). Here the fracture was rostral and
et al., 2006). Fractures of Mandible that required 5 weeks time period for complete
progresses to osteomyelitis, necrosis or healing.
nonunion may require a partial The principle of immobilizing
mandibulectomy. However, animal can these fractures in young animals and
function adequately with a fibrous union of potential complications arising from jaw
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 57 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
fracture needs attention. Fractures of body References
of mandible are readily handled by a Boudrieau, R.J. and Kudisch, M. (1996).
number of methods including external Miniplate fixation for repair of mandi-
skeletal fixation, plates and screws and also bular and maxillary fractures in 15dogs
with intramedullary pins (Leach, 1974). and 3 cats. Vet. Surg. 25: 277-91.
Marshall et al. (2010) used circular external Dabas, V.S. and Chaudhari, C.F. (2013).
skeletal fixation for repair of bilateral Surgical Management of Bilateral Co
mandibular fracture in a dog. Voss et al. mminuted Mandible Fracture in a
(2009) used unilock mandible locking German Shepherd dog. Intas Polivet.
system. Mandibular fractures in dogs were 14 (I): 113-114.
immobilized by tape muzzles (Umphlet and Fossum, T. W. (2002). Small Animal Surge
Johnson, 1990), miniplate fixation -ry. 2nd edn., Mosbay, Westline Indust
(Boudrieau and Kudisch, 1996), circular -rial Drive, St. Louis, Missouri, p.297.
external skeletal fixation (Marshall et al., Goeggerle, U.A., Toombs, J.P. and Inskeep
2010). Snyder et al. (2009) used G.A. (1996). Managing mandibular
interfragmentary wire surgical technique to fractures in dogs. Compend. Cotin.
repair a caudal mandibular fracture in a 15 Educ. Pract. Vet. 18: 511-523.
week old Labrador Retriever dog. Hoelzler Gonul, R., Kayar, A., Koenhemsi, L.Ozka
and Holmberg (2001) reported that -n, B. and Erman, M. (2009). Manage-
standard fixation technique like mant of Mandibular Fractures in dogs,
intramedullary pinning would not be the Indian Vet. Journal, 86(3):301-302
best method for mandibular fixation as the Hoelzler, G.M. and Holmberg, D.L. (2001).
pins becomes loose post-operatively due to Partial mandibulactomy as the treatme-
grasping of objects by the dog with an nt of a comminuted mandibular
intolerable force. Here only intramedullary fracture in a dog. Can. Vet. J. 42:143.
pinning was successful as there was single Leach, J.B. (1973). Stabilization plating of
fracture and during post-operative period the canine mandible. Vet Med. 68: 985.
the owner was advised to be conscious in Marshall, W.G., Farrell, M., Chase, D. and
regular using muzzle, feeding liquid diet Carmichael, S. (2010). Maxillomandib-
and to avoid manipulation by the patient. bular circular external skeletal fixation
Fractures of horizontal ramus often next to for repair of bilateral fractures of the
the root of an adjacent tooth and care must caudal aspect of the mandible in a dog.
be taken to ensure that there is enough bone Vet. Surg. 39: 765-70.
on both sides of the fracture to allow bone- Newton, C.D. and Nunamaker, D.M.
to-bone union. Bone will not heal to an (1985). Textbook of small animal
adjacent tooth and non-union will result orthopaedics. 43th Edn, J.B. Lippincott
(Newton and Nunamaker, 1985). In the Company.
present case the fracture was away from Niemiec, B.A.(2003). Intraoral acrylic spli
canine teeth and there was sufficient bone -nt application.J.Vet.Dent.,20:123–126.
adjacent to fracture line. Complications of Olmstead, M.L. (2010). Small Animal
gingivitis can be controlled by rinsing the Orthopedics, 3rd edn., Mosby, St.
mouth using chlorhexidine after meals Louis, Missouri, pp. 180.
(Niemiec, 2003). Here regular mouth wash Owen, M.R., Langley Hobbs, S.J., Moores,
with chlorhexidine solution was advised till A.P., Bennett, D. and Carmichael, S.
healing of the fracture. During post- (2004). Mandibular fracture repair in
operative period by maintaining all these dogs and cats using epoxy resin and
measures no complication was found and acrylic External skeletal fixation. Vet.
the dog recovered. Comp Orthop. Traumatol, 4:189–197.
Piermattei, D.L., Flo, G.L. and Decamp,
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 58 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 C.E. (2006). Fractures and luxations of W.R. (2009). Imaging and
the Mandible and Maxillae. In Handbo management of a caudal mandibular
-ok of Small Animal Orthopedics and fracture in an immature dog. J. Vet.
Fracture Repair, Saunders/Elsevier, 4 Dentistry. 26: 97-105.
St. Louis, Missouri, pp. 717–736. Umphlet, R.C. and Johnson, A.L. (1990).
Roux, P. (2007). Mandibular fracture in a Mandibular fracrtures in the dog. A
Lhasa Apso with renal secondary retrospective study of 157 cases. Vet.
hyperparathyroidism. Schweiz. Arch. Surg. 19: 272-75.
Tierheilk. 149: 277. Voss, K., Kull, M., Hassing, M. and
Singh, A.P., Singh, G. and Singh, P.(1993). Montavon, P. (2009). Repair of long-
Fractures In Ruminant Surgery. (1st bone fractures in cats and small dogs
edn.). Tyagi, R.P.S. and Singh, J. with the unilock mandible locking
(Eds). CBS Publishers and plate system. Vet.Comp.Ortho.
Distributors, Delhi, p.369. Traumatology. 22: 398-05.
Snyder, C.J., Soukup, J.W. and Gengler,

*****

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Indian Journal of Canine Practice 59 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 CUNEIFORM ULNAR OSTEOTOMY FOR VALGUS
DEFORMITY OF RADIUS AND ULNA
IN A GREAT DANE PUP
S. Ravikumar, V. Mahesh and L. Ranganath
Department of Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College, KVAFSU, Bangalore – 24.
[Received: 20.2.2014; Accepted: 06.6.2014]

A six month old Great Dane pup was presented to Veterinary College Hospital, KVAFSU, Bangalore
with the history of valgus deformity of right forelimb since two months. Clinical examination revealed lateral
deviation of right forelimb and improper weight bearing. Radiograph revealed retained endochondral cartilage in
the ulnar metaphysis which resulted in valgus deformity. Hence it was decided for surgical correction. The
forearm was prepared for aseptic surgery and the animal was positioned in lateral recumbency. Under general
anaesthesia ulna was exposed and wedge ulnar ostectomy (1.5 cm) was performed at the maximum curvature of
the ulna in order to alleviate restraining effect of ulna. The limb was immobilized with wooden splint bandage for
a period of one month and regular surgical wound dressing. The posture and gait returned to normalcy after three
months.
Keywords: Valgus; Osteotomy; Ulnar; Carpus.

Introduction History and Diagnosis

Carpus valgus is the deviation of A six month old Great Dane pup
carpal axis from a position parallel to the was presented to Veterinary College
elbow to one angled abaxially. With Hospital, KVAFSU, Bangalore with the
continued radial growth, the radius begins history of valgus deformity of right
to rotate externally, around the short ulna, forelimb since two months. Clinical
resulting in external rotation of paw examination revealed lateral deviation of
(Newton 1985). Valgus deformity of lower right forelimb and improper weight bearing
limb is due to either improperly managed on the same limb. Radiographic
cases of fracture or growth plate disorders. examination revealed healing fracture at
Newton et al. (1984) and Weigel (1987) distal epiphysis of radius with malunion
recommended the technique of cuneiform which resulted in valgus deformity (Fig. 1)
osteotomy for the correction of such hence it was decided to surgical correction.
deformities.

Fig. 1 healing fracture at distal epiphysis of Fig. 2. Post operative radiograph showing
radius with malunion the ulnar ostectomy

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 60 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

Surgical treatment Cuneiform (wedge) osteotomy
The dog was premedicated with provided wide flat surfaces for bony union
Atropine Sulphate at the rate of 0.04 mg and therefore significantly contributing to
per kg body weight and Diazepam at the more fixation stability (Rudy 1971 and
dose rate of 0.5 mg per kg body weight. Egger 1993). The surgical approach
Genaral anaesthesia was induced and adapted to the ulna was as described by
maintained with 2.5% thiopentone sodium Piemattei and Greedy (1979).
given to effect. The region from elbow to
carpal joint was prepared for aseptic References
surgery and the animal was positioned in Egger, E. L (1993) fractures of radius and
lateral recumbency. Ulna was exposed ulna. In : Slatter, D. (ed.) Text book of
through lateral approach by separating all small animal surgery . vol. II. 2nd edn.,
the underlying soft tissues. Ulnar W.B.Saunders, Philadelphia. P. 1736.
ostectomy (1.5 cm block) was performed at Newton , C. D., Nunamaker, D. M. and
the maximum curvature of the ulna in order Prieur, W. D. (1984). Osteotomy. In:
to alleviate restrainig effect of ulna. Manual of internal fixation in small
Autogenous fat graft has been successfully animals (eds.) Brinker, W. O., Hohn,
used to prevent bony union following ulnar R.B. and Prienr, W.D., Newyork,
usteotomy. The incision was closed in a Springer, Verlag, p. 255.
routine manner. Post operatively AC - Veta Newton , C. D. (1985). Radial and Ulnar
(Ampicillin + Cloxacillin) @ 500 mg IV osteotomy. In: Textbook of small
given for seven days and Melonexb animal orthopaedics. J. B. Lippincott,
(Meloxicam) @ 0.3 mg per kg SC, SID was p. 533-544.
administered for three days. Splint bandage Piemattei, O. C. and Greedy, R. G. (1979).
was applied and regular surgical wound An atlas of surgical approach to the
dressing was done for ten days. Surgical bone of the dog and cat. 2nd edn., W. B.
wound healed without any complications. Saunders. p. 106.
The splint was maintained for about 45 Rudy, R. L. (1971). Vet. Clin. North.
days. The posture and gait returned to America, 1:549.
normalcy by about three months. Weigel, J. P. (1987). Vet. Clin. North Am. :
Small Anim. Pract., 17:905.
Discussion

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Indian Journal of Canine Practice 61 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 BILATERAL HYGROMA IN A GREAT DANE DOG AND ITS
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
I. Nath, Jasmeet Singh, Sidhartha Sanker Behera, Prasant Kumar Sika
and B.K Dwibedy
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal
Husbandry, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology. Bhubaneswar-751003, Odisha.
[Received: 24.2.2014; Accepted: 07.6.2014]

A male Great Dane dog was presented with history of bilateral swelling over the elbow region since 2
months. Aspiration with sterile needle revealed it to be a case of hygroma and surgical treatment was planned
accordingly with the hygroma over left limb to be operated firstly followed by other lesion after healing of first
surgical wound. On 12th post-operative day, skin sutures were removed which revealed complete healing of the
wound. A similar surgical procedure was carried out over the right elbow after 15 days of first surgery and the
patient made an uneventful recovery.
Keywords: Hygroma, olecranon bursitis, surgical management.

Introduction Case History and Diagnosis

An elbow hygroma (elbow seroma, A nine months old male Great Dane
olecranon bursitis) is a fluid-filled cavity dog was presented with history of bilateral
surrounded by dense fibrous connective round swelling over elbow region (Fig.1). It
tissue arising out of inflammation of an started as small sized swelling over both
acquired subcutaneous bursa over the elbows and increased gradually to size of
olecranon process of ulna (Fossum, 1997). tennis ball over a period of 60 days. The
The occurrence of this condition is consultant Vet aspirated it with a
commonly reported in horses but rarely in hypodermic needle to relive off swelling
cattle (Venugopalan, 2004). It has been but it recurred again and it was referred for
reported to occur most commonly in young expert opinion and surgical treatment.
dogs of large breeds before a protective Palpation of the mass revealed it to be soft
callus forms over the bony prominence; and fluctuating with no evidence of pain.
however, they may occur in older animals Clinical examination revealed normal rectal
with neuromuscular disease (Fossum, temperature (102.20F), heart rate (84 beats
2002). Repeated trauma to soft tissues per minute) and respiratory rate (26 beats
overlying the bony prominence (olecranon per minute). Aseptic aspiration revealed a
process) causing subcutaneous transparent fluid thereby confirming it to be
accumulation of transudative fluid that case of hygroma and surgical correction
eventually becomes encapsulated by was planned accordingly.
fibrous tissue lined with a synovial
membrane (Shappel and Little, 1992). Surgical Procedure
Among the different dog breeds giant The animal was premedicated with
breeds like Irish wolfhound, Great Dane atropine @ 0.04 mg/kg body wt. SC
and Old English Mastiff appear to be followed 10 minutes later by xylazine @ 1
particularly susceptible to this condition mg/ kg IM respectively. General
(White, 2003). The present communication anaesthesia was induced by administration
puts on record a successful surgical of ketamine @ 7.5 mg / kg body wt. IV and
management of bilateral elbow hygroma in maintained by incremental doses of
a Great Dane dog and its surgical ketamine as and when needed during the
management. surgical procedure. The dog was restrained
in right lateral recumbency and aseptic

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 62 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

preparation over the left elbow region was operatively broad antibiotic ceftriaxone @
done in routine manner. An elliptical 10 mg/ kg body weight for 5 days and
incision was made along the posterolateral analgesic meloxicam @ 0.2mg/ kg body
aspect of point of elbow and over the weight for 3 days were administered
swelling. The bursa was gently separated intramuscularly. The wound was dressed on
from its soft tissue attachment by blunt daily basis with povidone iodine solution
dissection taking care not to rupture the and bandaged properly. The owner was
bursa or injuring the joint capsule (Fig.2 advised to keep the animal with restricted
and 3). The excess skin was trimmed off movement to prevent wound dehiscence.
and the subcutaneous tissue was closed by Skin sutures were removed on 12th post-
simple continuous sutures using chromic operative day and the wound healed
catgut no.1 to obliterate the dead space completely without any complications.
followed by skin closure with horizontal A similar surgical procedure was
mattress suture using braided silk no. 1 carried out over the other limb after 15 days
(Fig.4). The limb was bandaged properly of first surgery (Fig.6) with similar post-
from elbow region to paw region to restrict operative treatment and management which
movement and prevent post operative led to uneventful recovery after 14 days of
swelling of the affected limb (Fig.5). Post- surgical procedure.

Fig.1. Bilateral hygroma at elbow region Fig.2. After excision of the left mass

Fig.3. Excised bursa from the left side elbow Fig.4. Closing of the wound

Fig.5. Bandaging of the limb Fig.6. Surgical preparation of right one after healing of left

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 63 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

Results and Discussion and composed of primarily fibrous tissue
Olecranon bursitis is characterized by (Honnas et al., 1995). In the present
a movable swelling over the olecranon clinical situation, surgical correction was
tuberosity and the fore limbs. A common considered because of chronic nature of the
cause of bursitis is direct trauma which lesion. Similarly, two step surgical
leads to acute bursitis which swelling procedure was planned because
caused by bursitis can be of different size immobilization of both limbs
and can affect one or both fore limbs simultaneously might create problem in
(Honnas et al., 1995; Fossum, 1997). The normal movement of the patient which
present clinical case was a bilateral might increase the chances of wound
condition affecting both appears suddenly dehiscence.
while chronic bursitis occurs when the
trauma is mild but repeated in nature References
(O’Connors, 2005). Chronic bursitis is Arican, M., Kocabiyik, A. and Izci, C.
characterized by accumulation of excessive (2005). Treatment of bilateral olecranon
bursal fluid, thickening of bursal wall, bursitis in a horse. Indian Vet. J.,82:325.
extrusions of fibrous bands or septa within Fathy, A. and Radad, K. (2006). Surgical
the bursal cavity and generalized treatment and histopathology of
subcutaneous thickening (Fathy and Radad, different forms of olecranon and
2006). The hygroma in present case was presternal bursitis in cattle and buffalo.
chronic in nature which might be due to J. Vet. Sci., 7: 287-291.
constant irritation on the area of the Fossum, T. W. (1997). Small Animal
olecranon owing to its heavy body weight. Surgery. 2nd Edn. Mosby Publication.
Various treatment protocols have been Missouri. pp 137-138.
formulated for management of bursitis in Hayat, A., Cengiz Han, M., Sagliyan, A.
animal with the acute bursitis being treated and Biricik, H.S. (2009). Different
by aspiration of the serous fluid and treatment of olecranon bursitis in six
administration of hydrocortisone into the horses. J. Anim. Vet. Adv., 8:1032-1034.
bursa to suppress inflammation. However, Honnas, C.M., Schumacher, J., McClure,
chronic bursitis can be treated by S.R., Crabill, M.R., Carter, G.K.,
application of counter-irritants or incision Schmitz, D.G. and Hoffman, A.G.
of the bursa with application of an irritant (1995). Treatment of olecranon bursitis
to its interior lining. Aspiration of the in horses: 10 cases (1986-1993). J. Am.
contents and injection of an irritant like Vet. Med. Assoc., 206: 1022-1026.
tincture iodine or 3-5% carbolic acid leads O’ Connors, J.J. (2005). Dollar’s
to destruction of the bursal lining followed Veterinary Surgery. 4th Edn., Tindal and
by granulation, cicatrization and Cox, London.
obliteration of the cavity (Venugopal, Shappel, K.K. and Little, C.B. (1992). Spec
2004). -ial surgical procedure for equine Skin,
Surgical treatment is considered to be In: Equine Surgery. Auer, J.A. (Eds.),W.
an effective for treatment of olecranon B. Saunders, Philadelphia. pp 272-284.
bursitis particularly for the chronic Venugopalan, A. (2004). Essentials of
proliferative and fibrous form (Fathy and Veterinary Surgery. 4th Edn. Oxford &
Radad, 2006). Rapid and economic healing IBH Publishing. New Delhi.
is also achieved by surgical intervention White, R.A.S. (2003). Surgical treatment of
than conservative treatment (Arican et al., specific skin disorders. In: Text Book of
2005; Hayat et al., 2009) and it has also Small Animal Surgery. Slatter, D., (Ed).
been advocated when all other methods of 3rd Edn. W.B. Saunders, Philadelphia,
treatment have failed and the bursa is large pp 339-355.
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 64 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 MASSIVELY ENLARGED MAMMARY TUMOUR IN A DOG
AND ITS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
I. Nath, Jasmeet Singh, S.S. Behera, Samir Kumar Das, Sujit Prasad Das and
Sripati Sethi
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal
Husbandry, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology. Bhubaneswar-751003, Odisha.
[Received: 24.2.2014; Accepted: 04.6.2014]

A 9 years old, female German shepherd dog was presented with history of an unusual oval and flat
growth in the mid ventral region of the body. The growth started as a small nodule and gradually increased to a
large size over 6 month period. On clinical examination, it was diagnosed as a case of mammary tumour and
surgical excision was planned. Under general anaesthesia using atropine-xylazine-ketamine a circular skin
incision was given and the mass was separated from underlying tissues by blunt dissection. Bleeding was checked
by application of haemostatic forceps and ligatures wherever needed. The operative wound was closed in standard
manner. Post-operatively antibiotics for 5 days and analgesics for 3 days were administered. On 10th post-
operative day sutures were removed and the recovery was uneventful. Histopathologically it was diagnosed as a
mixed benign adenoma.
Keywords: German shepherd; mammary tumour; surgical management.

Introduction size over 6 month period. The growth was

Canine mammary gland tumors oval and flat in gross appearance and the
(CMGTs) are one of the most common left 1st and 2nd thoracic teats were affected
neoplasms of bitches (Vail and Ewen, (Fig.1). Radiograhic examination of chest
2000). Mammary gland tumours are most revealed clear lung fields without any
frequently found in bitches aged 5 years nodules or tumors. Tentatively it was
and above (Murphy, 2008). Dachshunds, diagnosed as a case of mammary tumour
cocker spaniels, toy poodles, German and surgical excision was planned.
shepherds, mixed–breed dogs have been
reported to have an increased incidence of Surgical Treatment
mammary neoplasia (Rutteman, 1990). The animal was premedicated
Mammary gland tumours can occur with atropine sulphate @ 0.04mg/kg
anywhere along the mammary chain in followed 10 minutes later by xylazine @
canine, mainly in females, and are the 1mg/kg body weight intramuscularly. The
second most common group of neoplasms induction of anaesthesia was carried out
in dogs, following skin tumours (Moulton, with ketamine @ 10mg/kg intravenously
1999). The caudal abdominal and inguinal followed by administration of incremental
mammary glands are affected with higher doses as and when needed during surgery.
frequency than thoracic glands (Cassali et The animal was restrained in lateral
al., 2009). The present paper describes recumbency keeping the tumour mass
successful surgical management of outward. The site was shaved, cleaned and
mammary tumour in a dog. prepared aseptically for surgery. A circular
skin incision was given around the mass
Case History and Observation and the mass was separated from
A 9 years old, female German underlying tissues by blunt dissection.
shepherd dog weighing about 30 kg body Bleeding was checked by application of
weight was presented with history of an haemostatic forceps and ligatures wherever
unusual growth in the mid ventral region of needed. The subcutaneous tissues were
the body. The growth started as a small apposed in continuous pattern using catgut
nodule and gradually increased to a large no. 2 for obliteration of dead space (Fig.2).
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 65 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 Fig.1. Oval and flat mammary tumour Fig.2. Obliteration of dead space after removal
of mammary tumour

Fig.3. Skin suturing Fig.4. Excised tumour mass

The skin wound was closed by vertical and Lumsden, 2000). The present case was
mattress using silk no. 2 (Fig.3). Post- presented late and the diagnosis was made
operatively antibiotic Ceftriaxone @ 20 by its location and physical examination.
mg/kg body weight twice daily for 5 days The excised mass was 7.5 X 6 inches in
and analgesic Meloxicam @ 0.2 mg/ kg dimension and weighed 620 gm. On gross
body weight once daily for 3 days were section, there were numerous cystic lesions
administered. Wound dressing was done on with multiple cauliflowers like masses
alternate days with povidine iodine. The which were hard in consistency (Fig.4, 5).
owner was advised to muzzle the dog and Histologically it was diagnosed as a mixed
cover the abdomen by clean cotton cloth to benign adenoma with solid lobules of
avoid licking and scratching. On 10th post- hyperplastic, well differentiated luminal
operative day sutures were removed and the and myoepitheleal cells embedded in
recovery was uneventful. extremely fibrous stroma.
Increased incidence of mammary tumours
Results and Discussion was found in many large as well as smaller
Anamnesis and physical breeds of dogs. The lowest occurrence was
examination coupled with epidemiological found in mongrels, Boxers and Chihuahuas
findings have an important role in the (Brodey et al., 1983). Spayed dogs had a 3
diagnosis and prognosis of mammary to 7 times lower incidence of mammary
tumours. Radiographic screening, surgical tumours than the intact ones (Alenza et al.,
biopsy or aspiration biopsy are beneficial 2000). The effect of spaying on the
tools for early diagnosis of tumours. (Baker decreased incidence of mammary tumour,
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 66 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
however, depended on the age of the dog at was found after the fourth oestrus
the time of surgery. The most significant (Misdorp, 1988). A higher incidence of
decrease of incidence was found in females mammary tumours is found in dogs
spayed prior to their first oestrus (0.5% receiving a “home-made” diet and “red
incidence as compared to intact female meat” compared to commercial diets.
dogs) and between the first and second Obesity in young animals (up to 1 years of
oestrus (8%). Advanced age at the time of age) is another risk factor for developing
spaying increases the incidence of tumors tumours even at a later age (Alenza et al.,
(26% between the second and fourth 2000). Here as the dog was already old and
oestrus) and no positive effect of spaying spaying was not done.

Fig.5. Showing cystic and cauliflower like growths

Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment Alenza, D.P., Pena, L., Del Castillo, N.,
for dogs and cats with most type of Nieto, A.I. (2000). Factors influencing
mammary gland tumors. The exceptions are the incidence and prognosis of canine
inoperable disease (e.g., highly malignant mammary tumours. J Small Anim
inflammatory carcinoma of the dogs that Pract. 41: 287-291.
account for less than 5% of mammary Baker, R. and Lumsden, J.H. (2000). The
tumours) and distant organ metastasis mammary gland. In Color Atlas of
(Tavasoly et al., 2013). Approximately Cytology of the Dog and Cat. Edited
50% of all mammary tumours are by Baker R, Lumsden JH. St Louis:
malignant and almost half of them have Mosby: 253–262.
spread at the time of diagnosis. Brodey, R.S., Goldschmidt, M.H. and
Chemotherapy may be recommended, Roszel, J.R. (1983). Canine mammary
when surgery alone is unlikely to be gland neoplasms. J Am Anim Hosp
successful, e.g. for tumours that cannot be Assoc. 19: 61-90
removed surgically, tumours that have Cassali, G.D., Bertagnolli, A.C., Lavalle,
metastasized, and tumours that have a high G.E., Tavares, W.L.F., Ferreira, E.,
probability of spreading. Here a case of Silva, A.E., Campos, C.B. (2009).
benign mammary tumour involving the Perpectives for diagnosis, prognosis
anterior glands of a GSD was put on and treatment of mammary neoplasms
record. The dog was followed for next 6 in dogs. 34th World Small Animal
months and there was no recurrence or Veterinary Congress - WSAVA 2009.
metastasis. Misdorp, W. (1988). Canine mammary
tumours: Protective effect of late
References: ovariectomy and stimulating effect of

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 67 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 progestins. Vet Q. 10: 26-33. Tavasoly, A., Golshahi, H., Rezaie, A. and
Moulton, J.E. (1999). Tumours in Domestic Farhadi, M. (2013). Classification and
Animals. 3rd edn, University of grading of canine malignant mammary
California Press, Berkley, pp. 518-543. tumors. Veterinary Research Forum.
Murphy, S. (2008). Mammary tumors in 2013; 4 (1) 25 – 30.
dogs and cats. In Practice; 30(6):334- Vail, D.M., Mac Ewen, E.G. (2000).
339. Spontaneously occurring tumors of
Rutteman, G.R. (1990). Hormones and companion animals as models for
mammary tumour disease in the female human cancer. Cancer Invest;
dog: an update. In Vivo, 4(1):433-440. 18(8):781-792.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 68 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 MEGAESOPHAGUS AND ITS MANAGEMENT IN THREE
DIFFERENT LARGE BREED ADULT BITCHES
A.K. Maji and Arnab Kumar Majie
Deptt. of Veterinary Surgery & Radiology, West Bengal University of Animal & Fishery Sciences,
37, K.B. Sarani, Kolkata-700037.
[Received: 24.2.2014; Accepted: 07.6.2014]

Acquired Secondary Megaesophagus rate without any respiratory tract problem

in adult dogs can result from numerous as all the cases were receiving courses of
neuromuscular, endocrine or inflammatory antibiotic therapy. The average result of
disorders as well as from obstructive biochemical parameters like blood glucose
lessions (Strornbeck and Guilford, 1990; fasting (78 mg/dl), Serum bilirubin (total
Twedt, 1995), Gastroesophageal sphinter 0.56 mg/dl, conjugated – 0.20 mg/dl,
(GES) achalasia during secondary Unconjugated 0.36 mg/dl), Protein (total –
peristalsis (Boria et al., 2003), hyper and 6.3 gm/dl, albumin – 2.5 gm/dl, Globulin –
hypoadrenocorticism, esophageal 3.8 gm/dl), Alkaline phosphatase – (146
dismotility, paraesophageal hiatal hernia, nµ/ml), SGPT (24 µ/l), SGOT (36 µ/l),
delayed transit disorders or hypomotility, BUN – (11mg/dl) and Serum Creatinine
hypertrophic osteopathy, tigersnake (0.84 mg/dl) were within normal ranges
envenomation, dysantonomia, acquired including T4(21.0 n mol/l), TSH (0.09
myasthenia gravis and canine distemper ng/ml) and Na+ : K+ (140/5 or 28). The 1st
(Mossallanejad et al., 2010). This report bitch was examined through barium
puts on record the successful surgical and esophagogram after administration of 50ml
non-surgical management of of microbar (Barium Sulphate Paste) and
megaesophagus in three adult large breed 30 ml of distilled water under 4 ml of I/V
bitches. diazepam. The second bitch received lesser
dose for this examination. In both the cases
Case History and Observations dilated thorasic esophagus with stasis of
Three bitches – one Labrador barium sulphate suspension and normal
Retriever, 4 years of age, 24 kg body wt., thickness of GES with failure to open for
whelped once, one GSD, 5 years of age, 17 transport were noticed (Fig.1 & Fig.2). In
kg of body wt., whelped 5 pups once and 3rd bitch dilated esophagus was sufficient
one Golden Retriever, 11 years of age, for diagnosis of megaesophagus in digital
respectively were presented to the survey radiography (Fig.3). X-ray upto 2nd
University Clinics with a history of chronic day post-barium administration revealed no
regurgitation having no prodormal phase of other abnormality of G.I. tract. By
vomition, dysphasia, repeated swallowing laboratory findings, radiography and
attempts, ptyalism, halitosis and were physical examination hypothyroid-related
maintained by life-saving fluid infusion and neuropathy, hypoadrenocorticism or
supportive therapy since last 15 days to 1.5 myasthesia gravis or presence of
months. Regurgitated materials were not obstructive lesions were eliminated and
bile-stained . All three bitches were
refractory to medicinal treatments done by Treatment and Discussion
referring veterinarians. On physical Lower sphincter achalasia was
examination the bitches were 2-3 out of 5 treated surgically in first case (Fig.4).
body condition score and cachectic but Distal esophagomyotomy (Modified
bright, alert and responsive with normal Heller’s method) was performed through
rectal temperature, heart and respiratory midventral incision at supine position under
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 69 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
general anaesthesia. The abdominal bitches afraid of the operation but all the
incision was from umbilicus to xiphoid owners strictly followed for elevated
process. The stomach was retracted by feeding at 45º on Baily chair and walking at
Babcock forceps. The distal part of the 90º on hind limb for 10 min. after food. On
esophagus, the lower esophageal sphincter the basis of telephone message and visit of
region and the cardia was visualized. A the local veterinarian quick result was
longitudinal incision was made on ventral achieved with the first bitch as after two
aspect of gastro esophageal junction years it became 32 kg of body wt. from that
through tunica serosa and tunica muscularis of 24 kg pre-operation and needs no
extending from distal 2 cm of the elevated feeding or extra-care. One and half
esophagus to proximal 2 cm of stomach. years after post-management the G.S.D.
The esophageal and gastric mucosa bulged bitch also gained body wt. being 30 kg
through the complete incision. Routine from emaciated pre-treatment 17kg as did
closure and standard follow up were made well the golden retriever with
(Fig.5). The owner of the 2nd and third comparatively prolonged elevated feeding.

Fig. 1 : Megaesophagus in the Labrador Retriever Bitch Fig. 2 : Megaesophagus in the GSD bitch

Fig.3: Digital X-ray depicting the megaesophagus Fig. 4: Contrast radiograph suggestive of GES achalasia
of the 3rd bitch (Golden Retriever)

Fig. 5 : Modified Heller’s esophagomyotomy in the 1st bitch

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 70 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 Congenital idiopathic megaesophagus minutes. All did well up to one and half
in pups were reported by Gahlot et al. years post operation.
(2003) and Punnusuamy et al. (2008).
Cases of Acquired megaesophagus have Reference :
been reported by Boria et al. (2003), Anil Anil Kumar, M.C., Kamran, C.A. and Bhat,
Kumar et al (2009) and Massallanejad et al. M.N., 2009. Megaesophagus in a Great
(2010). Since 1970’s a lot of works has Dane dog and its management – A case
been made in this field. Surgical attempt report, Intas polivet. 10(1):80-81.
was made here following Kipperman and Boria, P.A., Webster, R.L.C. and Berg, J.
Straw (1988) and Boria et al. (2003).The 2003. Esophageal achalasia and
diazepam was given to stop the secondary megaesophagus in a dog.
regurgitation during contrast radiography. Can. Vet .J. 44(3): 232-234.
Unfortunately the definitive cause for the Gahlot, T.K., Ahuja, A, Purohit, S. and
last two dogs’s acquired megaesophagus Kumar, A. 2003. Megaesophagus in a
was not determined. Cricopharyngeal pup – a case report. J. Canine Develop.
achalasia (upper achalasia) is a congenital Res.3 : 55-56.
condition in dogs. From clinical signs, age Kipperman, B.S. and Straw, R.C. 1988. Sur
of onset, biochemical and radiographic -gical management of megaesophagus
evaluation and complete response to in a dog.Modern Vet.Practice, 69:8-11.
esophago-myotomy it can be concluded Mossallanejad, B., Ghadiri, A. and Avizeh,
that the first dog in this report had acquired R. 2010. Iranian Jr. Vet. Res. Shiraz
lower esophageal achalasia. University. Vol.11, No.4 Ser.No. 33:
379- 382
Summary Punnuswamy, K.K., Jeyaraja, K., Unny,
Three adult bitches-one Labrador N.M., Napolean, R.E. and Subramania
Retriever, one GSD and one Golden -n, M. 2008. Congenital Idiopathic
Retriever with the history of chronic megnesophagus in a daschund puppy.
regurgitation were radiologically evaluated Indian Vet. J. 85: 989 – 991.
for Megaesophagus. From biochemical Strombeck, D.R. and Guilford, W.G. 1990.
parameters, clinical symptoms and history In Strombeck’s Small Animal Gastroen
it was diagnosed as Gastro esophageal -terology. Guilford, W.G. Center, S.A.
Sphinter achalesia. In first bitch distal Strombeck, D.R.etal.Edn. 3rd Edn. WB
esophagomyotomy( modified Heller’s Saunders Co., Philadelphia pp.1129.
method) through midventral incision was Twedt, D.C. 1995. Diseases of the esophag
done. All the bitches were kept on elevated -us. In Textbook of Veterinary Internal
feeding at 45 degree on Baily Chair and Medicine. Ettinger, S.J. and Feldman
walking at 90 degree on hind limb for 10 E.C. Edn.4th , WB Saunders Co.
Philadelphia, pp.1124-1142.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 71 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 URETHROCYSTOSCOPIC DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPEUTIC
MANAGEMENT OF URINARY TRACT DISORDER IN
FEMALE DOGS
V.P. Chandrapuria1, Dinesh Gupta2, Apra Shahi3, Dharmendra Kumar4 and Somil Rai5
1
Professor & Head, 2PG Scholar, 3Associate Professor, 4Assistant Professor, 5PhD Scholar
Department of Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., NDVSU, Jabalpur.
[Received: 27.2.2014; Accepted: 07.6.2014]

The lower urinary tract disorders are common in small animal practice with multiple factors which
contribute to complicate recurrent urinary infection. The modern diagnostic imaging urethro-cystoscopy has
proven to be a highly effective, minimally invasive technique for diagnosis of lower urinary tract diseases in dogs
and cats. In many aspects, urethro-cystoscopy provides enhanced examination of the urinary system compared to
other diagnostic procedures such as ultrasonography. Urethro-cystoscopy allows direct visualization of the
vestibule, vagina, urethral opening, urethra, urinary bladder and ureteral openings. The present research work was
carried out in eighteen clinical cases of adult female dogs with urinary disorders.

Introduction College of Veterinary Science and Animal

Urethro-cystoscopy allows direct Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary
visualization of the vestibule, vagina, Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya
urethral opening, urethra, urinary bladder Pradesh.
and ureteral openings. The chronic Eighteen clinical cases of adult
inflammation can be defined with its female dogs were taken for the studies
extent. Apart, it also visualizes lesions of which were divided into two groups. Group
lower urinary tract for assessment of I (control) comprised of 6 apparently
recurrent urinary tract infections, chronic healthy adult animals irrespective of age
cystitis, tumours of lower urinary tract and and breed and Group II - Comprised of 12
hematuria. Biopsy could be obtained for adult animals with lower urinary tract
histopathological and mucosal culture affections. Animals of both the groups were
study. The calculi can be collected for subjected to ultrasonographic examination
analysis of its composition. It is the before treatment (0th day) and group II
procedure of choice for assessment of were also examined on 10th and 20th day
urinary trauma (Adams et al., 2008 and post treatment. Animal was restrained in
Defarges and Dunn, 2008). It can also be dorsal recumbancy and site prepared
used for therapeutic purpose. Operative aseptically. For ultrasonographic
indications include performing and judging examination of urinary bladder and urethra
coaptation during periurethral injections, animal was restrained in dorsal recumbency
assess elevation of urethro-vaginal junction and Transducer was placed at the midline
during needle urethropexy and suburethral cranial to the pubis and parallel to the long
sling procedures, facilitate surgical repair axis. Ultrasonographic examination was
of urinary tract fistula and urethral done by using real time B mode, gray scale
diverticulum and evaluate the ureters and dual frequency (3.7/5 M Hz) ultrasound
bladder mucosa for inadvertent damage machine of Famio 5 (SSA 510 A, Toshiba
during surgery (Cundiff and Bent, 1996). Japan). Coupling media was applied on the
skin surface. The urinary bladder was
Material and method scanned for its shape, anatomical position,
The present research work was contents, bladder wall thickness and other
carried out in the Department of Veterinary abnormalities.
Surgery and Radiology, Teaching Animals of both the groups were
Veterinary Clinical Complex (TVCC), subjected to urethro-cystoscopic
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 72 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
examination before treatment (0th day) and in bladder echogenesity depend upon the
Group - II were also examined on 10th and concentration of urine.
20th day post-treatment. The animals were On 10th post-treatment day
pre-medicated with Atropine Sulphate @ ultrasonographic study of the urinary
0.04 mg/kg b. wt., I.M. and after five bladder revealed reduced thickening of the
minutes administration of Xylazine bladder wall in all the cases and
Hydrochloride @ 1-2 mg/kg b. wt., I.M. hyperechoic bladder sludge and cellular
and then after ten minutes administration of debris reduced when compared to day 0.
Ketamine @ 5-7 mg/kg body weight, I.V. On 20thpost-treatment day
Animal was restrained in ventro-dorsal or ultrasonographic detail of the urinary
lateral position followed by insertion of 2.7 bladder showed almost normal thickening
mm diameter, 18 cm long and 30° angle of the bladder wall in all the cases. The
rigid endoscope enclosed in a sheath bladder sludge and cellular debris was
through urethra along with the infusion of absent. The mucosa of urinary bladder was
normal saline through working channel of also smooth and appeared like normal
endoscope. The lesions in the urethra and urinary bladder. These findings support the
mucosal layer of bladder was recorded and response of treatment given for cystitis.
interpreted.
Cases were treated medicinally and/ Urethro-cystoscopy
or surgically as per the clinical condition In group II (a) on 0th day urethro-
diagnosed. The response of the therapy was cystoscopic examination of urinary bladder
evaluated by ultrasonography and urethro- showed mucosal hyperemia, corrugation in
cystoscopy on 10th and 20th post-treatment mucosa and sloughing of bladder
day. epithelium. Hyperemia and erythema are
the usual features of chronic cystitis, but
Results and discussion the urothelium also had general, ragged,
Cystitis fimbriated appearance. Hyperemia in
Ultrasonography bladder mucosa may be due to
In group II (a) at day '0' (pre- inflammation and corrugation of mucosa
treatment) Ultrasonography of the urinary occurs due to increased chronicity which
bladder revealed slightly thick bladder wall causes increased mucosal opacity and
and several hyperechoic fine crystals in the decreased elasticity when these changes
urinary bladder, which represents bladder occurs, the bladder mucosa become
sludge. corrugated. In present cases there might be
Nyland and Mattoon (1995), chronic cystitis. Such findings were also
Leveille (1998), Kundu and Ghosh (2006) reported by McCarthy (2005), Henderson
and Sutherland (2008) detected cystitis (2007) and Moore and Ragni (2012).
ultrasonographically and found that bladder On 10thpost-treatment day hyperemia
wall thickness was more cranio-ventrally, of bladder mucosa and epithelial cast were
became generalized in severe cases of present in the urinary bladder and on 20th
cystitis. Green (1996) reported presence of day bladder mucosa was observed almost
blood, pus and cellular debris in the urine, normal and corrugation on bladder mucosa
which visualized as small echoic in and epithelial cast were absent. These
anechoic urine. In several cases bladder findings showed that the treatment given in
wall became thick, hyperechoic and the present study was effective in cystitis of
irregular. The findings were the result of animals of the present study.
cystitis in animals of group II (a). Durmas
and Han (2005) also reported that changes Fimbriated growth in the urethra
Ultrasonography
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 73 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 In group II (b) on 0th day (pre- et al. (2005). Owner of dog was not
treatment) ultrasonographic view of the convinced for surgical removal or anti
urinary bladder revealed anechoic structure cancerous therapy so at 10thand 20th post-
surrounded by a thin hyperechoic wall with treatment day, ultrasonographic detail of
normal thickness. No abnormal pathology the urinary bladder was found hyperechoic
was observed in bladder on sonography. On mass similar to shape and size as
sonography neck of urinary bladder and compared to day '0' (pre-treatment).
proximal urethra could be visualized but
distal urethra remains unassessable. These Urethro-cystoscopy
findings are similar to Leveille (1998). The urethro-cystoscopic findings
The ultrasonographic findings revealed one club shaped mass appeared
remained same on 10thand 20th post- dark red in colour and seen lying across the
treatment day of this group. relatively normal urothelium and was
indicative of polyp in urinary bladder.
Urethro-cystoscopy Polyp is a proliferative condition of the
Transurethral cystoscopic study on bladder that is usually induced by chronic
0thday (pre-treatment) revealed irritation. Similar findings were described
granulomatous (proliferative) lesions in by McCarthy (2005) and Moore and Ragni
urethra, it showed fimbriation similar as (2012) for polyp in bladder of canine.
described for the urethral transitional cell On 10th and 20thpost-treatment day urethro-
carcinoma. The lumen of the urethra was cystoscopic detail of the urinary bladder
partially obliterated with finger like showed similar finding as compared to day
projection of the growth. Such papillary '0' (pre-treatment). Because owner of dog
fingers are described as urethral transition was not agreed with surgical removal or
cell carcinoma. In present case there might anticancerous therapy hence only medicinal
be initiation of the carcinoma in urethra. treatment was given for symptomatic relief.
Similar findings were also reported by
McCarthy (2005), Henderson (2007), Iqball Ulceration and petechial hemorrhage in
et al. (2011) and Moore and Ragni (2012). urinary bladder
The urethro-cystoscopic findings Ultrasonography
remained same on 10thand 20th post- In group II (d) at day '0' (pre-
treatment day of this group. Because owner treatment) ultrasonography of the urinary
of dog was not convinced for surgical bladder showed large size hyperechoic
treatment or anticancerous therapy, hence irregular patch at the apex of bladder which
on request simple treatment of cystitis was was measuring approximately 17 mm. The
initiated for symptomatic relief. mucosa of this area was not clear. The
bladder also contains several hyperechoic
Polyp in urinary bladder crystals present in the lumen of bladder.
Ultrasonography Similar findings were also observed by
In group II (c) at day '0' (pre- Green (1996).
treatment) ultrasonography of the urinary On 10th post-treatment day
bladder revealed a hyperechoic structure ultrasonography of the urinary bladder
attached with the dorsal aspect of the revealed ulceration of bladder wall which
bladder near the neck of urinary bladder was reduced slightly as compared to day '0'
and urethra. It was measuring 7.5 mm. This (pre-treatment) and hyperechoic crystals in
hyperechoic masses did not form any the anechoic urine were also reduced
acoustic shadow and attached with bladder slightly.
wall, suspected for polyp. The findings On 20th post-treatment day ultrasonography
were similar to Green (1996) and Olausson of the urinary bladder showed slight
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 74 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
irregular mucosa of bladder wall, were also observed by McCarthy (2005)
suggestive of erosion of bladder mucosa. and Moore and Ragni (2012).
On 10th post-treatment day urethro-
Urethro-cystoscopy cystoscopy of the urinary bladder revealed
In group II (d) at day '0' (pre- ulceration of bladder wall which was
treatment), urethro-cystoscopic study reduced in size as compared to 0thday (pre-
showed swelling, roughening and petechial treatment) and hyperechoic crystals in the
hemorrhages on bladder wall and urethral anechoic urine were also seen slightly.
mucosa, which were the confirmatory On 20th post-treatment day the
diagnostic signs of ulceration and urethro-cystoscopy showed slight irregular
hemorrhage on mucosal surface of bladder. mucosa of bladder wall and erosion of
It may be due to chronicity and bladder mucosa which was the indication of
inflammation of mucosa. Similar findings healing. These findings reflect the positive
response of the treatment given.

Figure 1 -Ultrasonogram group II (d) showing ulceration Figure 2 -Ultrasonogram group II (e) showing
in urinary bladder calculi in urinary bladder

Figure 3 -Uretherocystoscopy group II (d) showing Figure 4 -Uretherocystoscopy group II (e)

corrugation and ulceration in urinary bladder showing calculi in urinary bladder

Cystoliths the lumen of urinary bladder, suggestive of

Ultrasonography calculi. These calculi were measuring 11.9,
In group II (e)at day '0' (pre- 7.5 and 7.5 mm in diameter. Feeny and
treatment) ultrasonography of the urinary Johnson (1986) stated that variation of
bladder revealed three hyperechoic areas echogenesity and amount of acoustic
with distal acoustic shadow, visualized in shadow, with the composition and
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 75 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
compactness of calculi. At higher infection caused by multidrug-resistant
frequency the calculi may be hyperechoic. bacteria.
Similarly Nyland and Mattoon (1995) also Colgan and Williams (2011) and
observed changes in the images of Olson and Haith (2012) reported that
hyperechoic calculi with the position of Nitrofurantoin is the first drug of choice for
animal and always tend to move to treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis in
dependent portion. human being.
Bumin and Temizsoylu (2000) found that On the basis of findings of present study
radiography and ultrasonography are very Nitrofurantoin was found effective for
helpful for diagnosis of cystic calculi in cystitis in dogs.
dogs. De Castro et al. (1984) reported
Oxybutynin Chloride as the first drug of
Urethro-cystoscopy choice for neurogenic bladder dysfunction.
The urethro-cystoscopy of urinary Three animals of the treated group
bladder showed white, round or oval were not responding to treatment at 10th
masses of varying size of bladder post-treatment day thus the treatment
cystoliths, resting at apex of bladder. continued for next 10 days. The
Spiculated surface was looking like examination on day 20th revealed
calcium ammonium phosphate calculus. disappearance of clinical signs, urine
Bladder wall revealed cicatricial pillars analysis showed normal urine colour
along with thickening because of chronic without sediments macroscopically,
inflammation. This was the confirmatory microscopically absence of erythrocytes,
diagnosis of cystoliths. In the present study leukocytes and cast and multistrip
calculi may be struvite calculus. Similar examination showed normal pH and
findings were observed by McCarthy specific gravity and negative for glucose,
(2005) stated that cystic and urethral stones ketone bodies, bilirubin, urobilinogen,
can be easily seen with cystoscopy. Their protein and nitrites. Ultrasonographic
appearance varies widely depending their details of the urinary bladder showed
composition. almost normal thickening of the bladder
Findings in the present study coincide with wall in all the cases. The mucosal border
the observations of McCarthy (2005) and was smooth and a hypoechoic to isoechoic
Handerson (2007). bladder sludge and cellular debris were
absent. Urethro-cystoscopic study showed
Therapeutic management almost normal bladder mucosa.
The six animals of group II (a) were Corrugation on bladder mucosa and
treated medicinally with Nitrofurantoin, epithelial cast were also absent.
Oxybutynin Chloride, Ranitidine and In group II (b) and group II (c)
Sodium Acid Citrate. Retrograde flushing owners of dogs weOn the basis of findings
of bladder was also being done with a of present study Nitrofurantoin was found
mixture of normal saline, Povidone Iodine effective for cystitis in dogs.
and Metronidazole for twice a week. The De Castro et al. (1984) reported
combination of Povidone Iodine and Oxybutynin Chloride as the first drug of
Metronidazole might have acted on aerobic choice for neurogenic bladder dysfunction.
and anaerobic bacteria, resulted to absence Three animals of the treated group
of infection as shown animal of present were not responding to treatment at 10th
study. post-treatment day thus the treatment
Guardabassi et al. (2011) advised continued for next 10 days. The
Nitrofurantoin for treatment of urinary tract examination on day 20th revealed
disappearance of clinical signs, urine
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 76 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
analysis showed normal urine colour only irregular mucosa of bladder wall and
without sediments macroscopically, erosion of bladder mucosa. These findings
microscopically absence of erythrocytes, observed good response of treatment. The
leukocytes and cast and multistrip healing of ulcer occurs due to effect of
examination showed normal pH and antiulcer drug which produce an ulcer
specific gravity and negative for glucose, adherent complex with proteinaceous
ketone bodies, bilirubin, urobilinogen, exudates, inhibiting the pepsin activity.
protein and nitrites. Ultrasonographic Similar findigs reported by Papich (1993)
details of the urinary bladder showed in canine.
almost normal thickening of the bladder The group II (e) was treated with
wall in all the cases. The mucosal border Inj. DNS, Inj. Amoxicillin+ Sulbactum,
was smooth and a hypoechoic to isoechoic Ranitidine and Sucralfate, Neeri and
bladder sludge and cellular debris were Cystone. Being animal died on 8th post-
absent. Urethro-cystoscopic study showed treatment day so the response of treatment
almost normal bladder mucosa. remains obscured.
Corrugation on bladder mucosa and Singh et al. (2013) found that use of
epithelial cast were also absent. fluid, antibiotics, analgesics, anti-
In group II (b) and group II (c) inflammatory drugs, B-Complex, oral
owners of dogs were not convinced for any urinary antiseptics i.e. Cystone tablets after
surgical treatment and anticancerous surgery were found to be useful for control
therapy, hence on request simple treatment of recurrence of calculus in urinary system
of cystitis was initiated for symptomatic in canines.
relief. On 10th and 20thdays of observation
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Clinical manual of small animal endosu Veterinary Clinics of North America:
-rgery. 1st Edn., Blackwell Publishing Small Animal Practice, 23: 497-512.
Co., Ames U.S.A., pp 209-230. Singh, P., Chawla, S.K., Subash, C., Behl,
Nyland, T.G. and Mattoon, J.S. (1995). S.M., Chandolia, R.K. and Tayal, R.
Small Animal Diagnostic Ultrasound. (2013). Obstructive urolithiasis in
2nd Edn., W. B. Saunders Publishing canine - Ultrasonographic and
Co., Philadelphia, 357 p. Radiographic Observations.
Olson, R.P. and Haith, K. (2012).Antibiotic International Journal of Molecular
resistance in urinary tract infections in Veterinary Research, 3: 9-12.
college students. Journal of American Sutherland, S.S. (2008). Bladder and
College Health, 60: 471-474. Urethra. In: Atlus of small animal
Olausson, A., Stieger, S.M., Loefgren, S. ultrasonography. Blackwell Publishing
and Gillingstam, M. (2005). A urinary Co., Ames U.S.A., pp 365-383.
bladder fibrosarcoma in a young dog.

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 79 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 COMPARATIVE GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF PUPPIES
ON HOMEMADE AND COMMERCIAL
NON – VEGETARIAN FOOD
G.M. Gadegaonkar1, S.A. Kale2, M.B. Patil3 and V.D. Kank4
1
Assistant Professor, 2P.G.student, 3Ex-Professor & H.O.D. and 4Ex-Professor
Department of Animal Nutrition, Bombay Veterinary College, Parel, Mumbai- 400 012.
[Received: 08.1.2014; Accepted: 31.5.2014]

The present experiment was undertaken to study the comparative performance of non-vegetarian
homemade food and non-vegetarian commercial dry pet food on growth of growing puppies was studied. The
study involved 12 growing puppies. The selected growing puppies were divided into two groups of six each.
Group I was fed with homemade food, as per the practice of pet owner. The group II was fed with commercial dry
pet food (PLB, Pedigree). The trial lasted for 90 days. The average weekly body weights of both the experimental
groups were comparable. However, total gain in weight of the puppies receiving homemade food were
significantly (P<0.05) higher than those receiving commercial pet food. The average DM, ME and ME per W0.75
Kg intakes of puppies from groups I were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of group II, however, the average
DCP intake of both the experimental groups reveled non significant difference. The efficiency of feed utilization
in terms of DM, DCP and ME required per kg gain in weight revealed non-significant diffrence between the
groups. The digestibility of all the nutrients except DM, NFE and CF was higher for group II receiving
commercial dry pet food than homemade group.The TDN and DCP contents of foods for control and treatment
group were 82.69 and 24.42 and 88.33 and 29.09%, respectively. The corresponding values for ME were 2.98 and
3.19 Mcal per kg. The blood profiles studied revealed that hemoglobin concentration, total protein, albumin,
serum calcium and phosphorus improvement was more in case of dry pet food group as compared to the
homemade group. The blood lymphocyte count reduced by 6 units in group II where as in homemade group there
was increase in lymphocyte count by 2 units. The serum carnitine level was increased by 0.29 nmol per mg
protein in group II where as in homemade group there was increase in serum carnitine level by 0.31 nmol per mg
protein. The body condition of puppies receiving homemade food was indicative of obese condition where as in
case of commercial pet food it was ideal to their body size. Economics of the study revealed that average daily
feeding cost of the puppies were Rs. 51.25 and 103.19 per puppy for groups I and II, respectively. Although, cost
of feeding was higher for group II than group I, body condition achieved was ideal. Thus, it is seen that use of
homemade food for growing puppies may lead to obesity in the puppies. The use of this food achieved the ideal
absolute growth performance of growing puppies. Thus, it can be concluded that feeding of commercial pet food
lead to more uniform and healthy body development with the beneficial effect on blood parameters.

Introduction essential to provide balanced food as per

For efficient reproduction and the requirement of the pet. To prevent or
maintenance of normal health in pets, it is decrease the disease occurrence and to
essential to provide balance diet with macro maintain normal health status it is
and micro-minerals in appropriate quantity. necessary to provide proper nutrition.
It can be achieved by providing balanced or Basically in India traditional
complete diet to the animals. All nutrients practice of pet feeding is followed which
are required in some specific amounts to includes feeding on left over or feeding the
play an important role in various metabolic same food which is cooked for human
activities of animal body. It is being which include rice, chapatti, bhakari, milk,
recognized now that food is associated with pulses, chicken or meat and some
normal health, skin condition and disease vegetables. However, it becomes very
process. The total disease prevention difficult to provide balanced diet form
requires lifelong dedication to proper homemade food. Practically it is essential
nutrition. Food needs vary with each life to provide some vitamin and mineral
stage, mental, physical or environmental supplements in addition to homemade diet
stress and with diseases. Therefore it is to make it balanced one. Most of

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 80 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

homemade vegetarian diets are unbalanced and II) of six each, on the basis of sex, age
especially for protein and minerals due to and body weight.The selected growing
deficiency of one or more essential amino puppies were divided into two groups of six
acids and minerals in vegetarian food stuff. each containing two male and four female
Vegetarian diets are also deficient in in each group. During the experimental
nutrients like carnitine and taurine which period puppies were present at educated pet
are present in very high amounts in non- owners place located at various places in
vegetarian foodstuffs. In case of western Mumbai.
countries dog feeding practices are mostly
dependent on commercial pet foods as they Experimental foods and feeding schedule
are easy to store at room temperature, easy The experimental groups were
to handle and most convenient way to randomly allotted to food treatments. The
provide balance nutrition to dog. Also, details of food treatments allotted are given
there is no effort required to cook it, as it is below.
ready to eat food. Group-I: Received non-vegetarian homem-
Now a day’s various de food consist of chapatti, rice, chicken,
commercial pet foods are available in the pulses, egg and milk, as per practice of
market which is well balanced with all owner
nutrients. These commercial foods are also Group-II: Received commercial non-
available for different life stages of the vegetarian dry pet food as per manufacturer
animals. Large number of Indians prefers recommendation (PLB, Pedigree).
homemade diet rather than commercial pet Two times feeding was
food. However, it is necessary to compare practiced for both the groups. The foods
the performance of pets fed on homemade were weighed and then offered to both the
and commercial non vegetarian pet food. groups to arrive at actual daily food
It was therefore decided to study consumption. The food intake data on daily
and compare the performance of pets fed basis was converted to weekly basis for the
with homemade and commercial non statistical analysis and drawing of
vegetarian foods,in terms of growth, food conclusions.
intake & digestibility characteristic of
various nutrients. Composition of food
Non-vegetarian Homemade food
Materials and Methods Conventional practice of
The study involved 12 growing feeding homemade food was followed
puppies of Labrador retriever breed throughout the experiment. The ingredient
(average age of 3-6 months, average body composition (%) of homemade food is
weight was around 15.37 Kg) which were given in Table 1.
divided in to two equal groups ( Group I

Table 1. Average composition (%) of homemade food per day on as served basis
Ingredients Quantity (%)
Wheat ( Cahpati) 31.37
Rice, cooked 32.68
Chicken 26.14
Pulse 6.54
Egg 3.27

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 81 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

In addition to above diet each puppy food were collected and analyzed for
received 600 ml of milk and 50 g of chemical composition. The chemical
biscuits daily. Once in a week the food composition of home-made food is
intake was recorded for each puppies of presented in Table 2
both groups. The representative samples of

Table 2. Percent chemical composition (DMB) of home-made food

Nutrients %
Dry matter 36.46
Organic matter 93.40
Crude protein 27.18
Ether extract 3.90
Crude fibre 2.37
Nitrogen free extract 58.95
Total ash 7.60

The experimental animals were 1 kg TDN = 3.6 Mcal.

kept in pet owners home. The normal
standards of hygiene, management, feeding Analysis of homemade food, pet food and
practices, vaccination and deworming blood
programs were followed for all the Representative samples of foods
experimental puppies throughout the used in experiments and fecal samples from
experimental period. digestible trial were analyzed for chemical
During the trial period, composition as per A.O.A.C. (1990) in the
observations pertaining to the body weight Laboratory of Department of Animal
and feed intake were recorded at weekly Nutrition, Bombay Veterinary College,
interval for both the groups. Blood samples Parel, Mumbai - 400012. Blood samples
of two puppies from each group were were analyzed for CBC, calcium,
collected before the start and at the end of phosphorus, protein, albumin, carnitine and
the experiment to analyze blood taurine in Unique Laboratory, located at
lymphocyte count, percentage Parel, Mumbai.
haemoglobin, serum calcium, phosphorus, At the end of experiment two
carnitine and taurine, plasma total protein, puppies from each group were evaluated
albumin and globulin concentrations. The for body condition. Body condition was
experiment lasted for 12 weeks. During the analyzed by adopting 1-9 score scale to
last week, a digestibility trial of seven days know the obese, optimum or sub-optimal
duration was conducted with total condition of experimental puppies.
collection method to study the digestibility Evaluation of body condition was done by
of various nutrients from different feeding using score protocol suggested by
treatments. At the end of experiment, body Laflamme (1993) under the guidance and
condition score of two puppies from each help of panel of three scientists from
group was recorded.The economics of body Department of Animal Nutrition, Bombay
weight gain in both the groups was also Veterinary College, Parel, Mumbai -
studied over the feed cost. 400012.
The energy requirements of Economics of dog feeding was
canines are given in terms of ME, therefore worked out on basis of food cost per day
the TDN values were converted in to only and compared. Other overheads were
ME values with the help of following considered as constant in both the groups.
conversion factor given by Reddy (2006).
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 82 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
Statistical Analysis Results
Observations of various The effect of non-vegetarian
parameters recorded during experimental homemade food and non-vegetarian
period were tabulated and data were commercial dry pet food on the
statistically analyzed as per Snedecor and performance growing puppies is presented
Cochran (1994). in Table 3.

Table 3. Overall performance of growing puppies from two experimental groups

Parameters Group-I Group-II Results
of test
Initial body weight (Kg) 15.2 15.55 -
Final body weight (Kg) 23.45 21.7 -
Total gain in weight (Kg) 8.26 5.29 -
Weekly gain in weight (Kg) 0.69 0.53 *
Average daily DM consumption (Kg) 0.62 0.47 *
Average daily ME intake (Mcal) 1.86 1.50 *
Average daily ME intake (Mcal)/kg W0.75kg 0.20 0.17 *
Average daily DCP consumption (Kg) 0.15 0.14 NS
Food efficiency
a) DM consumption kg / gain (Kg) 6.74 6.14 NS
b) ME intake Mcal / Kg gain 20.23 19.54 NS
c) DCP intake kg / Kg gain 1.65 1.79 NS

Body condition score in 1-9 scale 6.75 5.25 -

Biochemical Profile
Blood hemoglobin initial 12.55 11.45 -
Blood hemoglobin final 13.00 12.95 -
Serum Ca - 1st week 11.30 10.65 -
Serum Ca - 12th week 11.40 11.65 -
Plasma total protein-1st week 5.90 4.90 -
Plasma total protein 12th week 5.8 7.0 -
Plasma albumin 1st week 2.5 1.95 -
Plasma albumin 12th week 2.6 2.9 -
Plasma globulin 1st week 3.05 2.75 -
Plasma globulin 12th week 3.00 4.1 -
Blood lymphocyte at 1st week 30.5 39.5 -
Blood lymphocyte at 12th week 32.5 33.5 -
Serum carnitine(nmolper mg protein) at 1st week 2.31 2.39 -
Serum carnitine(nmolper mg protein) at 12th 2.62 2.68 -
week
Serum taurine(μ mol per litre) at 1st week 4.20 4.00 -
Serum taurine(μ mol per litre) at 12th week 4.40 4.18 -
NS: Non Significant *: Significant at 5% **: Significant at 1%

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 83 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 Table 4. Average percent digestibility coefficients, TDN and DCP contents and
ME (Mcal per kg) food for experimental foods
Parameters Digestibility coefficients %
Group I Group II
Dry matter 86.41 82.51
Organic matter 88.02 89.20
Crude protein 89.93 90.90
Ether extract 83.25 92.75
Crude fibre 73.66 62.83
Nitrogen Free Extract 83.49 69.26
TDN % 82.69 88.33
DCP % 24.42 29.09
ME(Mcal/ kg food) 2..98 3.19

The average body weights of puppies at the weights in puppies receiving homemade
start of experiment were 15.20 and 15.55 food containing fish meal than those on dry
kg for groups I and II, respectively. The pet food containing fish meal.
corresponding weights at the end of trial Average daily DM, ME intake
were 23.58 and 21.70 kg for groups I and and ME intake (Mcal)/kg W0.75kg of
II, respectively. The average weekly body puppies from group I receiving home made
weights of the puppies from both the food was significantly (P<0.05) higher than
groups were comparable although it was that of puppies from group II receiving
numerically higher in puppies from group I commercial pet food. The higher DM, ME
than that of group II. In contrary to our intake, ME intake (Mcal)/kg W0.75kg by
findings of this experiment, Adalinge et al. group I was also reflected in higher gain in
(2001) and Gujar et al. (2001) reported weight by this group as compared to the
significantly higher (P<0.05) body weights commercial pet food. The findings of the
in puppies receiving homemade food than present experiment corroborated with Gujar
those on commercial dry pet food. et al. (2001) who observed significantly
The total gain in weight of higher DM consumption in puppies fed on
puppies during experimental period of 12 homemade food than those on dry pet food
weeks was 8.38 and 6.15 kg for groups I containing fish meal.
and II, respectively. The total gain in The average daily DCP intake
weights during experimental period were of both the experimental groups revealed
significantly (P<0.05) higher for the non-significant difference, although it was
puppies receiving homemade food. Higher numerically higher for group I than group
gain in weights in homemade food might II. Contrary to the findings of present
be due to higher food intake, due to study, Gujar et al. (2001) observed
uncontrolled eating habits resulting in significantly (P<0.05) higher DCP intake in
higher energy and fat consumption. The puppies fed on homemade food than those
findings from present study are in receiving dry pet food containing fish meal.
agreement with Adalinge et al. (2001) who Nap et al. (1991) observed significant
observed significantly higher (P<0.05) gain difference in average body weights
in weights in puppies receiving homemade between three experimental groups due to
food than those on commercial dry pet difference in protein intake.
food. Gujar et al. (2001) reported The efficiency of feed
significantly higher (P<0.05) gain in utilization by growing puppies from both
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 84 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
groups was calculated in terms of dry was 6.25 which is indicative of obese
matter, meatbolizable energy and digestible condition and thus showing overweight to
crude potein intake per kg gain in weight their body size. However, body condition
during the experimental period. The score of puppies receiving commercial dry
average DM, ME and DCP required per kg pet food was 5.25, which is indicative of
gain in weight by puppies of group II was ideal condition and thus showing ideal to
numerically higher than group I, however, their body size.
the difference was statistically non- The mean blood hemoglobin
significant. In contrary to above findings concentration, blood serum calcium and
Gujar et al. (2001) observed 2.32 and 0.81 phosphorus values, plasma total protein,
kg DM/kg gain in weight in puppies fed on albumin and globulin concentrations, blood
homemade diet and dry pet food containing lymphocyte count (%), serum carnitine and
fish meal, respectively which indicated taurine of puppies from group I and group
significantly higher food efficiency in II in the first and twelve week of
group fed on dry pet food. Adalinge et al. experiment is presented in Table 3. From
(2001) reported significantly higher these results, it is observed that there was
(P<0.05) food efficiency in puppies improvement in hemoglobin concentration,
receiving commercial dry pet food than total protein, albumin, serum calcium and
those on homemade food. Debnath (2000) phosphorus in both the groups, however,
reported that food efficiency in terms of improvement was more in case of dry pet
DM (kg)/kg gain was 18.58 and 14.78 and food group as compared to the homemade
in terms of DCP intake kg/kg gain, it was group. The blood lymphocyte count
2.55 and 2.20 in growing puppies. reduced by 6 units in group II where as in
The average percent homemade group there was increase in
digestibility coefficients, TDN and DCP lymphocyte count by 2 units. The serum
contents and ME (Mcal per kg) for carnitine level was increased by 0.29 nmol
experimental foods is given in Table 4. The per mg protein in group II where as in
digestibility trial conducted during last homemade group there was increase in
week of trial revealed that the digestibility serum carnitine level by 0.31 nmol per mg
of DM, CF and NFE were higher for protein.
homemade group than the commercial pet Economics of the study revealed that
food group but the digestibility of OM, CP average daily feeding cost of the puppies
and EE was higher for commercial pet food were Rs. 51.25 and 103.19 per puppy for
group than homemade group. Gujar et al. groups I and II, respectively. Although,
(2001) found higher digestibilites for all the cost of feeding was higher for group II than
nutrients except CF in the puppies fed with group I, body condition achieved was ideal.
homemade diet containing fish meal than
that of puppies fed with dry pet food ABBREVIATIONS:
containing fish meal. The TDN and DCP DM : Dry matter; DCP: Digestible crude protein;
ME: Metabolizable energy; W0.75 Kg : Metabolic
contents of foods for control and treatment body weight; OM: Organic matter; CP: Crude
group were 82.69 and 24.42 and 88.33 and protein; EE: Ether extract; CF: Crude fibre; NFE:
29.09%, respectively. The corresponding Nitrogen free extract; TDN: Total digestible
values for ME were 2.98 and 3.19 Mcal per nutrients; DCP: Digestible crude protein; KG: Kilo
kg. This may be the result of overall higher gram.
digestibility of the OM, CP and EE for
group II as compared to that of control Conclusion
group. Thus, it is seen that use of
The average body condition homemade food for growing puppies may
score of puppies receiving homemade diet lead to obesity in the puppies. The use of

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 85 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

commercial pet food achieved the ideal submitted to MAFSU, Maharashtra
absolute growth performance of growing state.
puppies. Thus, it can be concluded from Laflamme, D. P. (1993) Proc. N. Am. Vet.
overall study that feeding of commercial Conf., Orlando, PP : 290 - 291.
pet food lead to more uniform and healthy Nap R.C., H.A.W. Hazewinkle, G. Voorho
body development with the beneficial -utj, W.E.V.D. Brom, S.A. Goedegebur
effect on blood parameters. -e and A.Th.V.T. Kloosters (1991)
Growth and skeletal development in
References Great dane pups fed different levels of
Adlinge, P. S. (2001) M.V.Sc. Thesis protein intake. J. Nutr. 121 : 107 - 113.
submitted to MAFSU, Maharashtra Reddy, D. V. (2006) Textbook of Applied
state. Nutrition Livestock, poultry, Human,
A.O.A.C. (1990) Association of Official pet, rabbit, and Laboratory Animal
Analytical Chemists, Official Method Nutrition. PP : 47.
of analysis,15th ed. Collegiate Press, Snedecor, G. M. and G. W. Cochran (1994)
Washington, D. C. – 2004 (4) : 957. Statistical methods, (8th edition),
Debnath, B. C. (2000) M. V. Sc. Thesis Affiliated East West Press Iowa State
submitted to Kokan Krishi Vidyapeet, University press, USA. Published by
Dapoli. Maharashtra state. Oxford and IBN Publishing Co.
Gujar, M. G. (2001) M.V.Sc. Thesis Kolkatta-16.

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 86 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 PREVALENCE OF SPONTANEOUSLY OCCURRING
NEOPLASMS AMONGST CANINES IN JAMMU
Asma Hamid, Shagufta Azmi, Shafiqur Rahman and Maneesh Sharma
Division of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry,
SKUAST-J, R .S Pura, Jammu 181102.
[Received: 13.1.2014; Accepted: 30.5.2014]

The present study was conducted to know the incidence of ber 2010 to November 2011. Out of 55
samples, 15 samples were collected from Divineoplasms in dogs. A total of 55 dogs presented in Veterinary
Tillo and private clinics from Decemsion of Veterinary Pathology, F.V.Sc & A.H after P.M examination, 31
samples from VCTH, FVSC & AH and 9 samples from CVH, Talab Tilloo and Clinics and Teaching Hospital,
F.V.S.c & A.H, R.S Pura, Jammu for treatment and also from the dogs brought for P.M examination in the
division, and from Central Veterinary Hospital (C.V.H), Talab other Private clinics, Jammu. The incidence of
neoplastic conditions was higher in females then males. Highest risk of development of various tumours was
observed at the age group of 10-12 years, followed by 13-15 and 7-9 years. The frequency of occurrence of
neoplasm were highest in Labrador breed (32.72%) followed by Pomeranian (20%), Alsatian (12.72%),
Doberman (9.09%) and Mongrel (7.07%). The season wise prevalence of canine neoplasm was found to be
maximum during April-May (27.27%), followed by June-July, (25.45%), August–September and February-
March (18.18%) and December-January (10.90%). Tumour of the skin, mammary gland and genital organs were
the most common sites for the neoplasm. The tumour of the muscles and gastrointestinal tract showed relatively
low incidence, the prevalence of skin tumour was second highest tumour occurring in canines.
Key words: Dogs, Neoplasm, Prevalence.

Introduction had a statistically significant relative risk

Common feature of cancer is developing benign and malignant tumours
uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation (Zatloukal et al., 2005). The shorter life
(multiplication). This loss of cell growth span of dogs (both in terms of life-years
control results from an accumulation of and generations) and the availability of
mutations in genes that control cell extended pedigrees with detailed family
division, inhibit or promote cell division histories, provide a unique opportunity to
and survival. Genetic and environmental address causative issues of cancer that will
factors (air pollution, water pollution, be important for cancer research.
infectious agents, and ionizing and non
ionizing radiation and more specifically Materials and Methods
hormones and medications, occupational The present study was conducted
exposures, and lifestyle-associated risk on 55 dogs of different breeds, sex and age
factors such as diet) have major effects on group presented in Veterinary Clinics and
the occurrence of cancer (Moulton, 1978). Teaching Hospital, F.V.S.c & A.H, R.S
Neoplastic diseases affecting various Pura, Jammu (31) for treatment and also
tissues, such as mammary gland, skin and from the dogs brought for P.M
components of lympho-haematopoietic examination in the division (15), and from
and musculoskeletal systems, are common Central Veterinary Hospital (C.V.H),
in the dogs (Vachhani et al., 2004) and one Talab Tillo and private clinics (9) from
of the major problems in companion December 2010 to November 2011. The
animals. Considering the pathological incidence of neoplastic conditions was
lesions, the highest relative risk of studied on the basis of age, sex, breed,
dysplasia/hyperplasia, benign tumours and month and season as well as type of
malignant tumours is at the age of 8, 10 tumour. The data collected was expressed
and 13 years, respectively with highest in per centage and mean (Snedecor and
incidence after 10 years of age. Poodles, Cochran, 1994).
English Cocker Spaniels and Dachshunds
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 87 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
Results and Discussion in both sexes (Table 1). The present
Sex wise incidence observation are comparable with that of
The prevalence of neoplastic Dorn et al.(1968) who reported peak
conditions (benign and malignant) was incidence of canine neoplasms between 6-
found to be more in female 32/55 14 years of age. Similar observations
(58.15%) than male 23/55 (41.81%). were also reported by Das and Parhi
Similar to this Vachhani e t al. (2004) also (2003). Schafer et al. (1998) also reported
observed fr equen c y of occurrence of higher tumour incidence at 13.6 years of
neoplasms more in females (60%) than age which coincides with findings of
male (40%). The same was also reported present study. Mulligan (1975) during his
by Dorn et al. (1968); Schafer et al. study of 120 cases of mammary cancer
(1998) and Das and Parhi (2003). This observed nearly 90% of them between 8 to
might be due to reason that mammary 15 years of age with a rare incidence of
tumour in dog is more prevalent amongst mammary gland tumours in female dogs
canine which could be a deciding factor less than 2 years of age. Boldizsar et al.
for incidence of tumour more in female (1992) reported that incidence of canine
dogs than male dogs. Besides, hormonal mammary tumours was highest in 10 years
imbalance in female dogs could be one of old dogs and remained increasing with age
the factors responsible for prevalence of until the 14th years of age. Adak (2005)
higher degree of neoplasm in female dogs. also found highest incidence of canine
mammary tumours (65%) between 8 to 12
Age wise incidence years of age. The reason for preponderant
Highest risk of development of occurrence of neoplasia during the old age
various tumours was observed at the age could be attributed to long latent period
group of 10-12 years, followed by 13-15 necessary for tumour development and
and 7-9 years. At age group of 0-3years, decreases immunological system with
the incidences of neoplasms were lowest increase age.

Table 1: Age and sex wise prevalence of different neoplasms in canines (N=55)
Age group Male Female
Total
(years) Benign Malignant Total Benign Malignant Total
0-3 1 0 1 1 0 1 2
3-6 1 0 1 1 1 2 3
7-9 1 3 4 4 3 7 11
10-12 3 5 8 5 7 12 20
13-15 3 6 9 5 5 10 19
Total 23 32 55
Percentage 41.81% 58.18%

Season wise incidence Breed wise incidence

The season wise prevalence of Breed wise prevalence of
canine neoplasm was found to be different neoplasms of canine has been
maximum during April-May (27.27%), depicted in Table. 2. The frequency of
followed by June-July, (25.45%), August– occurrence of neoplasm were highest in
September and February-March (18.18%) Labrador breed (32.72%) followed by
and December-January (10.90%). Tumour Pomeranian (20%), Alsatian (12.72%),
had no strong relation with month and Doberman (9.09%) and Mongrel
season wise prevalence. This might (7.07%). Great Dane and Crossbreed dogs
be due to reason that long latent showed lowest (1.81%) prevalence of
period is required for the different neoplasm. Similar findings in
development of tumour. respect of breed wise incidence were also
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 88 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
reported by earlier workers (Howard and German shepherd, Spitz, Nondescript,
Nielsen, 1965; Priester, 1967). The Labrador and Doberman for development
incidence of tumour was highest in Boxer of canine mammary tumours. Adak (2005)
breed. The variation in the breed wise reported that Pomeranian was most
incidence might be due to high susceptible followed by Doberman,
population of certain breeds in the Mongrels, Alsatian, Daschounds and
particular area. Else and Hannant (1979) Cocker spaniel for development of
and Zatloukal et al. (2005) found Poodles mammary tumours. The variation
as most susceptible breed followed by regarding breed predisposition to tumour
Labrador and Cocker Spaniel for in canines might be due to the fact that the
mammary tumours. Mahopatra et al. pet owners have specific choice for
(2005) reported Tibetan breed as most particular breed depending on popularity
susceptible followed by Cross-bred, of particular breed in that region.

Table 2: Breed wise prevalence (%) of different neoplasms in canines (N=55)

Breed Benign (%) (N=25) Malignant(%) (N=30) Total (N=55)
n Prevalence (%) n Prevalence (%) n Prevalence (%)
Labrador 10 55.55 8 44.44 18 32.72
Pomeranian 6 54.54 5 45.45 11 20
Alsatian 4 57.14 3 42.85 7 12.72
Doberman 1 20 4 80 5 9.09
Mongrel 1 25 3 7.5 4 7.27
Spitz 1 33.33 2 66.66 3 5.45
Boxer 1 33.33 2 66.66 3 5.45
Lhasa 0 0 2 66.66 2 3.63
Great Dane 0 0 1 100 1 1.81
Cross 1 100 0 0 1.81
25 45.45 30 54.54 55 99.95
N=Total number of benign/malignant neoplasm examined in all breeds
n=Total number benign/malignant neoplasms observed in each breed.
P(prevalence)=n/Nx100

Organ wise incidence and Roszel (1967) reported leiomyoma as

Tumour of the skin, mammary the most frequent tumour in female dog.
gland and genital organs were the most Eckerlin, (1974) found one case in which
common sites for the neoplasm. The kidney carcinogenic agent, irradiation and
tumour of the muscles and gastrointestinal trauma. Head (1953) and Brodey (1970)
tract showed relatively low incidence, the found that the tumours arising from
prevalence of skin tumour was second perianal glands are the most common
highest tumour occurring in canines types of skin tumour in dogs. Nielsen was
(Table 3). In the present study skin extensively affected by a leiomyosarcoma.
tumour is the second highest type of During the course of study, 4 cases of
tumour amongst canines. This might be gastrointestinal tract tumours were
due to the fact that the agents responsible examined. Of these, 2 (50%) cases were of
for skin tumour are virus, and Aftosmis epulis and rest of the 2 (50%) cases were
(1964) reported that perianal gland that of Hard palate. The reason might be
tumours rank third in frequency of all due to viral or parasitic infection.
canine skin tumours. In the present study Bodingbauer (1954) found epulides in the
out of 3 cases, 2 (66.66%) cases of gum of dog particularly in the premolar
Leiomyoma and 1(33.34%) case of and molar regions. Watrach et al. (1971)
Leiomyosarcoma were observed. Brodey studied the natural case of papillomatosis
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 89 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
of the oral and pharyngeal cavities in 18 tumours than entire bitches, those
months old dog with a squamous cell neutralised after one cycle had 12 fold
carcinoma developing in the posterior less risk and those neutralised after
portion of the right side of the oral cavity. maturity had no reduction in risk. Similar
Genital system showed 80% of the findings were reported by Vachhani et al.
tumours were transmissible veneral (2004) in which mammary gland,
tumour and only 20% was affected by the reproductive organ and skin were the
adenoma. Ajello (1949) and Higgens most common sites for the neoplasm.
(1966) suggested that many of the skin Moulton (1978) reported that mammary
sites where the tumours are found were tumours were the second most common
caused by biting and scratching common group of neoplasms in dogs, following
in stray dogs. Vachhani et al. (2004) skin tumours. Mukhopadhayay et al.
reported that reproductive organ and skin (1992) recorded high incidence of skin
were the most common sites for the neoplasms (32) followed by fibroma (19),
neoplasm. The prevalence of venereal granuloma (17) and squamous
adenocarcinoma was the highest 10 cell carcinoma (12). It was concluded that
(45.45%), followed by mixed mammary the prevalence of tumour was older age
tumour 7 (31.81%) cases, fibroadenoma 3 group, in females than males, was m o r e
(13.63%) cases and then adenoma 2 i n L a b r a d o r breed f o l l o w e d by
(9.09%) cases. This might be due to the Alsatian, Pomerinian, and Doberman.
hormonal changes in the body. Bitches Skin, mammary gland and genital organs
neutralised prior to any oestrus had 200 were the most common sites for the
fold less risk of developing mammary neoplasms.

Table 3: General classification of different neoplasms occurring in canines (N=55)

S. No of Percentage
Tissue/Organ affected Type of tumour
No. cases (%)
Fibroma 9 16.36
Papilloma 3 5.45
1. Tumour of skin Squamous cell carcinoma 2 3.63
Fibrosarcoma 2 3.63
Myxoma 1 1.81
2. Tumour of muscles Leiomyoma 2 3.63
Leiomyosarcoma 1 1.81
3. Tumour of G.I.T Epulis 2 3.63
Hard palate 2 3.63
4. Tumour of genital system Transmissible veneral tumour 4 7.27
Adenoma 1 1.81
Mixed mammary tumours 7 12.72
5. Tumour of mammary gland Adenocarcinoma 10 12.72
Fibroadenoma 3 5.45
Adenoma 2 3.63
6. Tumour of Lymphoid organ Nodular hyperplasia of spleen 2 3.63
7. Tumour of eye Corneal 2 3.63

References Bodingbauer, J. (1954). Beitrag zur Klinik,

Adak, A. (2005). Immunopathological Histopathologie, Theraapie and
study of canine mammary tumors. Prophylaxe der Epuliden des Hundes.
M.V.Sc. Thesis, Bombay Veterinary Schweizer. Arch. Tireheilk., 96: 89-102.
College, MAFSU Nagpur. Brodey, R.S and Roszel, J.F. (1967).
Ajello, P. (1949). II Cosidetto sarcoma did Neoplasm of canine uterus, Vagina and
Sticker in sede extra genital. Nuova Vulva: A Clinicopathologic survey of
Vet., 25: 405-410. 90 cases. J. Amer. Vet. Med. Ass., 151:
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 90 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
 1294-1307. -ia Press Berkeley and Los Angels,
Brodey, R. S. (1970). Mammary tumors in California.
Bitches. J. Am. Anim. Hosp. Assoc., 19: Mukhopadhayay, S., Bhattacharyya, S and
61-90. Som, T.L. (1992). Pathology of skin
Das, B.C and Parhi, N.K. (2003). neoplastic conditions in dogs.
Incidence of canine tumors in Orissa International Symposium on Advances
(2000-2002). National Symposium on in Animal Cancer Research. Pp: 48
Basic Pathology and Animal Diseases (Abstracts).
and XX Annual Conference of IAVP. Mulligan, R. M. (1975). Mammary cancer
November 2003. Pp: 135 (Abstracts). in the dog: a study of 120 cases. Am. J.
Boldizsar, H., Szenci, O., Muray, T and Vet. Res., 36(9):1391-1396.
Csenki, J. (1992). Studies on canine Neilsen,S.W and Aftosmis, J.(1964).
mammary tumors. Age, seasonal and Canine perianal gland tumors. J. Amer.
breed distribution. Acta. Vet. Hung., Vet. Med. Ass., 144: 127-135.
40:75- 87. Priester, W.A. (1967). Canine lymphoma:
Dorn, C. R., Taylor, D. N., Frye, F.L and Relative risks in Boxer breed. J. Nat.
Hibbard, H.H. (1968). Survey of animal Cancer Inst., 39: 833-845.
neoplasms in alameda and Contra Costa Schafer, K.A., Kelly, G., Schrader, R.,
Countries, California I. Methodology Griffith, W.C., Muggenburg, B.A.,
and Description of cases. J. Nat. Tierney, L.A., Lechner, J.E., Janovitz,
Cancer Inst., 40: 295-305. E.B. and Hahn, E.E. (1998). A canine
Eckerlin, R.H. (1974). Perforated model of familial mammary gland
duodenum associated with non neoplasia. Vet. Pathol., 35: 168-177.
obstructive leiomyosarcoma in a dog. J. Snedecor, W.G. and Cochran, G.W.(1994).
Amer. Vet.Med.Ass., 165: 449-450. Statistical Methods. 8th eds. IOWA
Else, R. and Hannant, W. (1979). Some State University Press, Ames, IOWA.
epidemiological aspect of mammary Vachhani K.V., Ghodasara D.J., Parmar,
neoplasia in the bitches. Vet. Rec., H.C., Jani, P.B and Prajapati, K.S.
104:296-304. (2004). Incidence of neoplastic
Head, K.W. (1953). Skin Disease: Neoplas conditions in canines. In: ‘National
-tic diseases. Vet. Rec., 65: 926-929. symposium on advances in
Higgens, D.A. (1966). Observations on the pathological techniques in diagnosis of
canine transmissible veneral tumor as animal, bird and fish diseases and XXI
seen in the Bahamas.Vet.Rec.,79:67-71. annual conference of IAVP’.pp: 29.
Howard, E.B and Nielsen, S.W. (1965). Watrach, A.M., Small, E and Case , M.T.
Neoplasia of the Boxer dog. Amer. J. (1971). Canine papilloma: Progression
Vet. Res., 26:112-115. of oral papilloma to carcinoma. J. Nat.
Mahopatra, H. K., Panda, S. K., Nath, I., Canc. Inst., 45: 915-920.
Bose, V.S.C. and Patanayak, D.K. Zatloukal, J., Lorenzova, J., Tiche, F.,
(2005). Occurrence of tumors in dogs. Neaas, A., Kecova, H. and Kohout, P.
Indian Vet. J., 82: 134-136. (2005). Breed and age as risk factors
Moulton, J.E. (1978). Tumors in Domestic for canine mammary tumors. Acta
animals. 2nd edn. University of Californ Veterinaria Brunensis., 74: 103-109.

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 91 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 A STUDY ON CLINICAL AND HAEMATOBIOCHEMICAL
PARAMETERS IN CANINE DEMODICOSIS
A. Janus, P.V. Tresamol, K.A. Mercey, Biju P. Habeeb and H. Shameem
Deptt. Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences,
Mannuthy, Thrissur, Kerala.
[Received: 24.2.2014; Accepted: 07.6.2014]
Clinical and haematobiochemical changes were studied in 20 dogs which were presented at University
Veterinary Hospital, Mannuthy with skin lesions. Etiology of the dermatitis was confirmed by direct
microscopical examination of deep skin scrapings as Demodex canis. Measurement of different stages of the
parasite was made with a calibrated microscope. Detailed haematological and blood biochemical analysis and
estimations were done in the dogs with demodicosis as per standard techniques. The history , distribution of the
lesions, nature of the lesions, predilection to age, sex, breed, health condition and clinical remission were
recorded. Haematological and serum biochemical analysis revealed a reduction in RBC count, Hb value, platelet
count and serum albumin level and an increase in neutrophil count, serum total protein and globulin.

Introduction to the clinic for routine vaccination were

Demodex mites are considered to selected as control animals to record the
be normal inhabitants of the cutaneous normal parameters.
microfauna in dogs. Immunosuppression Measurements of different life
or a defect in the skin immune system stages were taken using a caliberated
allows mites to proliferate in the hair microscope .The history, distribution of the
follicles, resulting in clinical signs. lesions, nature of the lesions, predilection
Dermatological Changes include erythema, to age, sex, breed, health condition,
alopecia, follicular hyperkeratosis, pustules, clinical remission were recorded. All the
crusts and seborrhea. Often secondary dogs with generalizd demodicosis were
pyoderma further complicates the disease. treated with iverrmectin@400 mcg/kgas
Demodicosis in dogs occur either as daily oral dose, benzyl peroxide shampoo
localized form or generalized form. (Petben) and amitraz(RIDD)@4ml/l of
Localized demodicosis has a good water for external application and oral
prognosis, with the majority of cases immunostimlants (Immunol syrup). Eight
resolving without miticidal treatment. dogs which were having secondary
Generalized demodicosis may be a severe bacterial infections were treated with
and potentially life threatening disease. antibiotics. Dogs with localized
Demodicosis produces haematobiochemical demodicosis were treated with external
changes due to the impact of stress caused medications and immunostimulants.
by mites. In this paper, clinical and Detailed haematological and blood
haematobiochemical changes in dogs biochemical analysis and estimations were
affected with demodicosis are discussed. done in the dogs as per standard techniques.
The data were analysed using Student’s ‘t’
Materials and methods test.
The dogs which were brought to the
University Veterinary Hospital, Mannuthy, Results and conclusions
with skin lesions were selected and Skinscraping examination revealed
examined clinically. Their skin scrapings cigar shaped Demodex spp mites in 20
were taken and examined directly and by dogs. Measurements of different lifestages
sedimentation method with 10 per cent were taken using a calibrated microscope
KOH. The dogs which were positive for and the total body length and breadth of
demodicosis were selected for detailed the adult parasite ranged from
study. Six apparently healthy dogs brought 250µm×40µm to 300µm×40µm which was
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 92 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
in accordance with Muller and Kirk (2012) demodicosis, the highest occurrence was
and confirmed the presence of Demodex observed in Labradors and pugs (five each-
canis. Grossly two forms of demodicosis 25 %). The dogs diagnosed with
were identified. ie. Localized or squamous demodicosis were not dewormed regularly.
form and generalized form. Localized form The dogs showing erythema, papules,
was identified in six dogs (30%). In the pruritus and alopecia showed gradual
localized form few small, circumscribed , improvements and the skin regained it’s
erythematous, hyperpigmented, scaly normal texture within 30- 60 days of
nonpruritic alopecia facially or on the treatment. Clinical remission could be
forelegs were obtained. In generalized identified in cases (40%) which were not
form, which was identified in the rest, followed up regularly.
large multifocal areas of alopecia, erythema The type and distribution of the
and hyperpigmentation appeared on the lesions recorded were in accordance with
head, trunk and legs were recorded. Gupta and Prasad (2001). Highest
Secondary bacterial infection were present occurrence of demodicosis in dogs of the
in eight dogs.(40%). Interdigital dermatitis age group of three months to one year was
was present in three adult dogs (15%). Age reported by Thushara (2005). In young
group of three months to one year were ones endoparasitism and debility may
found to more prone to this disease(75 %). predispose them to the disease. In dogs
Disease was invariably found in both the attaining puberty the increased sebum
sexes. Of the twenty cases diagnosed as production may be a contributing factor.

Table. 1 Haematological parameters of demodicosis affected dogs and control

Haematological parameters Mean +( SE)(n-20) Control(n-6) tvalue
Mean+SE
Haemoglobin (g/dl) 12.137+.25 13.78+.1 4.06 **
PCV(%) 38.473+.68 40+1.39 1.2 NS
3 3
Totalleukocyte count(10 /mm 15.578+1.008 10.87+3.38 2.06 NS
3 3
Neutrophils (10 /mm ) 72.42+2.77 71.67+.76 0.17 NS
3 3
Lymphocytes(10 /mm ) 24.89+2.13 24.83+.6 0.02 NS
3 3
Eosinophils(10 /mm ) 2.68+.81 1+.26 1.29 NS
Total RBC count 5.77+.19 7.02+.46 3.33**
** indicates significant at 1% level, NS - Not significant

Haematological analysis (Table - indicated by decrease in Hb content and

1) revealed that the mean RBC count was packed cell volume may be due to the
less than the control. A statistically deteriorated condition of the affected dogs
significant difference was present between owing to reduced food intake, systemic
the mean RBC values and haemoglobin illness, toxaemia and septicaemia caused by
values . Mean haemoglobin value and the mites as well as by secondary bacterial
mean platelet count were less than the infection. This is in agreement with Pathak
control values.The mean neutrophil count and Bhatia(1986). There was neutrophilia
was higher than the control value. Mean and eosinophilia. The generalized
total protein and mean globulin values inflammation and response of leucocytes to
were higher than the control. Mean albumin prolonged antigenic stimulus in the form of
was less than the control. Mean A:G ratio chronic demodex mite infection may be
was less than the control. responsible for the leukocytosis and
The reduced haemoglobin (Hb) Eosinophilia may be due to hypersensitivity
concentration in dogs with demodicosis,

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 93 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

to persistent Demodex mites in tissues. in albumin: globulin ratio is due to the
(Dhume et al, 2002). decrease in plasma albumin and relative
The decreased albumin (Table-2) increase in plasma globulin concentration.
may be due to the excessive breakdown of The present study revealed that dogs
proteins due to trauma to skin and affected with demodicosis needs prolonged
proliferation of mites (Jyotsna and Gupta, care for uneventful recovery.
2005)). The significant decrease observed

Table. 2 Biochemical parameters of demodicosis affected dogs and control

Biochemical parameters Mean +SE(n-20) Control (n-6) t value
Mean+SE
Albumin 3.053+0.05 3.22+0.07 1.92 NS
Globulin 3.55+0.17 3.11+0.15 1.56 NS
A/G ratio 0.896+0.05 1.05+0.06 1.81 NS
Total Protein 6.663+0.17 6.33+0.16 1.17 NS
** indicates significant at 1% level, NS - Not significant

Referrences K. L. (2012).Muller and Kirk’s small

Dhume. G. V., Shardode, D. B., Dakshinka animal dermatology. 7thEd. W. B.
-r, N. P., Shrikhande, G. B. (2002). Saunders, Philadelphia. p 304
Haematobiochemical investigation in Pathak, K. M. L. and Bhatia, B. B.
canine demodecosis. The Blue cross (1986).Haematobiochemical and
book., 19:16-17. pathological changes in a dog with
Gupta, N and Prasad , B.(2001).Clinicodiag generalized demodecosis..Ind. J. Vet.
-nosis and therapeutic management of Med. 6(1): 26-28.
acariosis in dogs.Ind. J. Vet. Med. Thushara, M. R. (2003). Epidemiological
21(2):73-75 and clinicotherapeutic studies on
Jyotsna, S and Gupta, S. K. (2005).Serum canine demodicosis.M.VSc thesis
protein profile in demodectic mange. submitted to Kerala Agricultural
Ind. Vet. Med. J., 28: 35-37. University.
Miller, W. H., Griffin, C. E and Campbell,
*****

AT T EN T I ON
Hereby attention of all the Life Members of the I.S.A.C.P. is drawn for
updating their addresses. If any body is not getting the News Letters and
other Communications regularly, is requested to update the ISACP with
Latest Address, E-mail I.D., Telephone No. and Cell No. to the Society s
Regd. Office Indian Society for Advancement of Canine Practice, 21/5,
Sector 21, Indiranagar, Lucknow 226 016; India.

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 94 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

 CANINE METASTATIC MAMMARY CARCINOMA IN
LUNGS: A CASE REPORT
S. Roshini, G.N. Patil, A.K. Mhase, G.K. Sawale, S.D. Moregaonkar
and D.P. Kadam
Department of Veterinary Pathology, Bombay Veterinary College, Parel, MAFSU, Mumbai-12.
[Received: 26.2.2014; Accepted: 08.6.2014]

Introduction dissemination of mammary tumor

Mammary gland tumors are one of the metastasis in dogs. Canine tumors that
most frequently diagnosed neoplasms in induce formation of new lymph vessel have
bitches, exhibiting a high incidence of a higher metastasis potential (Patsikas et
malignancy and a high degree of metastasis al., 2006). Because lung metastasis are
affecting several other tissues (Morris et responsible for 25% to 50% of total MCMT
al., 2002). In addition, they account for metastasis, it is important to perform
almost 50% of neoplasm in bitches. The radiographic evaluation of bitches suffering
average age at the first clinical evidence is from MCMT on a routine basis, as well as
10 years old, with no predilection for the cytologic evaluation by fine needle
breed of the bitch (Munson and Moresco, puncture and evaluation of hepato-renal
2007). Canine mammary tumors have a function. When a non-cavitary interstitial
complex pathogenesis, including lung pattern at radiography is observed in
susceptibility of bitches to their own bitches suffering from MCMT, it would
endogenous sexual steroids (German AJ, probably reflect the presence of lung
2006), environmental contaminants to metastasis which originated from mammary
which dogs are commonly exposed such as tumors. Accordingly, the clinical prognosis
allethrin, cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, for bitches affected by mammary tumors
deltamethrin and tetramethrin (Andrade et will depend on the histological pattern of
al., 2010), and diet and hormonal the tumor they suffers, as well as its
components related to obesity. infiltrating and metastatic capability,
Malignant canine mammary tumors characteristics that must be determined by
are characterized for presenting an an accurate clinical exam combined with a
aggressive inflammatory pattern, radiological and histopathological
particularly in the case of carcinoma, it diagnosis. It is also important to consider
behave as highly aggressive and have a low assessment of the estrogen and
survival rate. They exhibit unlimited progesterone receptor expression (Chang et
growing capability, and are capable to al., 2009). This paper reports the case of
infiltrate regional lymph drainage and canine mammary carcinoma metastasis to
nodes and to cause metastases to other lungs in a dog.
tissues (8). Several studies have reported
the incidence of canine mammary tumors: Materials and methods
In a report in which 672 Beagle bitches A 16 year old female Cocker Spaniel
were evaluated, authors found that 71% dog was presented for postmortem
frequency of mammary tumors, 19% of examination to the Department with a
these were carcinoma and most of the dogs history of recurrent mammary tumor and
showed a high frequency of metastasis to partial paralysis. Kidney function test
lungs (Welch, 2007). revealed elevated levels of creatinine and
Lymph drainage is considered as one BUN (Creatinine: 8.48 mg/dl, BUN:
of the most important route for 150.38 mg/dl). Dog showed cachexia and

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 95 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014

anorexia before death. Detailed necropsy Clinical signs observed before death
was conducted and gross lesions were was emaciation and labored breathing.
recorded. The affected tissue sample were On necropsy, external examination
collected in 10% formalin, processed and of dog revealed pale mucous membranes
embedded in paraffin blocks. Section of 5 and multiple wart like growths were
µm were taken on slides and stained with noticed on forelimbs, hindlimbs, ventral
haematoxylin and eosin (Culling, 1963). abdomen, commissures of mouth and
around the eyes. Multiple growths were
Result and discussion noticed on caudal pair of mammary gland
measuring approx. 4 x 3 cm in size (Fig.1).

Fig.1: showing mammary galnd tumor Fig.2: Spleen- multiple growth

Fig.3 &4: Lung- multiple white circumscribed growth

Grossly, there were areas of characterized by the presence of multiple

emphysema and atelectosis in lungs. In nodules of approximately 5-6 mm diameter.
addition to this, Multiple, White, metastatic Stomach showed hemorrhages on the
nodules of mammary carcinoma (Fig. 3 & mucosa and there were streaks of
4) were noticed on both the lobes of lungs hemorrhages noticed on the intestinal
measuring approx. 0.5 x 1cm in size. mucosa. Mild myocarditis. Liver was
Multiple growths were noticed on the enlarged and congested; cut section showed
surface of the spleen (Fig 2). blood tinged exudates. Kidneys were pale,
The present findings are in contracted, puffy and capsule peeled off
accordance with the observation of Gomez with difficulty. On section appeared empty.
et al., 2012 in which they reported that lung White focal areas were noticed on the
metastases is characterized by a structured cortical surface of the kidney; multifocal
interstitial pattern, non-cavitary, depressed areas were noticed on the surface
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 96 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
(Fig. 5). Patches of hemorrhages were hemosiderosis, edema, multifocal
noticed on cut section. Cyst was noticed on hemorrhages, multifocal perivascular
perirenal region. Bladder was distended fibrosis (periportal cirrhosis). Kidneys
with urine and mucosa showed thickening showed diffuse cystic dilatation of the
and ecchymoses.Cortical surface showed tubules, degeneration of the tubules,
white focal areas. Other visceral organs did multifocal atrophy and disappearance of
not show significant changes. These lesions glomeruli and diffuse increase in bowman’s
observed in the present investigation are space at glomeruli.
non specific and could be due to secondary Histopathological examination of lung
complication of canine mammary revealed multifocal areas of infiltration of
carcinoma. carcinomatous cells in the interstitial tissue
Mammary gland adenocarcinoma (Fig.7 & 8). Spleen showed multiple areas
was noticed from multiple growths on the of accumulation of carcinomatous cells in
skin of inguinal region. (Fig.6). Liver the red pulp.
showed diffuse distortion of hepatic cords,

Fig.5 Kidney-white spotted kidney Fig.6 Microphotograph showing proliferation

of carcinomatous cells in mammary gland

Fig. 7 & 8 H&E stained slide showing infiltration of carcinomatous cells in lung parenchyma

Gomez et al., 2012 reported that tumors were diagnosed as carcinoma.

most of the mammary glands affected by Similarly, other authors found a
neoplasm (83.74%) exhibited predominant diagnosis of carcinoma in
histopathological findings of malignancy, bitches affected by mammary tumors
mainly carcinoma (81%) and frequently (Bronden et al., 2010 and Clemente et al.,
metastasized to lungs. This is in agreement 2010). On the contrary, Meuten, 2002 and
with our findings. Lockett (2005) stated Dobson, 2003 found out that the
that the frequency of malignant mammary predominance of benign mammary tumors
tumors was 68.1%, from which 58.6% of was 60% to 40% whereas the malignant
Indian Journal of Canine Practice 97 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014
mammary tumors were 30%-40%. This is mammary tumours. J Comp Pathol.
in contrast with the present findings. 143:157-163.
Dobson J, Lascelles D. (2003) BSAVA
Summary manual of canine and feline oncology.
Mammary tumors are the second 2nd ed. London: Blackwell publishing;
most common group of neoplasms in dogs, pp: 345-348.
following skin tumors. They are the most Culling, C. F. A.1963: Hand book of histop
common tumors in female dogs and -pathological and histochemical techniq
common cause for the death of old age -ues. 3rd Edn. Butter Worths and Co.
bitch. Even though there are treatments (Publishers), Ltd. Landon. Pp.402-403.
options available for mammary gland German, A.J., (2006) The growing problem
tumors, still there is recurrence of tumors of obesity in dogs and cats. J
and metastasis to other vital organs are the Nutr:136(7 Suppl):1940S-1946S.
most common complications. This Lockett, M., Merlo, W., Rosciana, A.,
communication is an attempt to record the Maccio, O., Guaimás L. (2010).
unique case of metastatic carcinoma in Evaluación radiológica en caninos para
lungs and its histopathological features in detección de metástasis de tumores
dogs. mamarios malignos en tórax y abdomen
Comunicaciones científicas y technolog
References -gicas [en línea] 2005 [fecha de acceso
Andrade, F.H., Figueiroa, F.C., Bersano, 15 de febrero de 2010]. URL disponible
P.R., Bissacot, D.Z., Rocha, NS.(2010). en: http://www.unne.edu.ar/Web/cyt/
Malignant mammary tumor in female com2005/4-Veterinaria/V-025.pdf
dogs: environmental contaminants. Morris P and Dobson J., (2002) Oncología
Diagn Pathol : 5:45. en pequeños animales. Buenos Aires:
Brønden, L.B., Nielsen, S.S., Toft, N., Kris Intermédica; pp: 123-125.
-tensen, A.T.,(2010).Data from the Dan Meuten D.(2002) Tumors in domestic
ish veterinary cancer registry on the occ animals. 4th ed. New York: Blackwell;
-urrence and distribution of neoplasms pp: 213-215.
in dogs in Denmark. Vet Rec.166:586- Munson L and Moresco A. (2007)
590. Comparative pathology of mammary
Chang, C.C., Tsai, M.H., Liao, J.W., Chan, gland cancers in domestic and wild
J.P., Wong, M.L., Chang, S.C.(2009). animals. Breast Dis: 28:7-21.
Evaluation of hormone receptor Patsikas, M., Karayannopoulou, M.,
expression for use in predicting survival Kaldrymidoy, E., Papazoglou, L.,
of female dogs with malignant Papadopoulou, P. (2006) The lymph
mammary gland tumours. J Am Vet drainage of the neoplastic mammary
Med Assoc: 235(4):391-396. glands in the bitch: A lymphographic
Clemente, M., Pérez-Alenza, M.D., Peña L study. Anat Histol Embryol;35:228-234
(2010). Metastasis of canine Welch T. 2007: Small animal surgery. 3rd
inflammatory versus non-inflammatory ed. New York, Mosby, pp: 553-556 .

*****

Indian Journal of Canine Practice 98 Volume 6 Issue 1, June, 2014