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Malkani R, Paramasivam S, Wolfensohn S. How does chronic pain impact the lives of dogs: an investigation of factors that are associated with pain using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1374858. [PMID: 38638643 PMCID: PMC11025458 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1374858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic pain can profoundly affect the wellbeing of dogs and our understanding is limited regarding the multidimensional impact it has on dog quality of life. This study aimed to assess the factors that are significant and predictive of behavior problems in dogs using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) to further understand what factors influence their welfare. Methods Seventy six AWAG assessments were undertaken across 46 dogs that clinicians diagnosed as having musculoskeletal conditions that caused chronic pain. Wilcoxon-rank sum tests were used to assess the difference in scores between dogs with behavior disorders and a cohort of healthy dogs (n = 143). Results All physical factors besides body condition, and all psychological, environmental, and procedural factors were significantly different between healthy dogs and dogs with chronic pain, evidencing how chronic pain impacts all domains of a dog's life. Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient (RS) revealed several significant strong positive correlations such as the association between the severity of clinical symptoms with poorer mobility and the frequency at which the dog experienced fearful stimuli. Logistic regression showed that fears and anxieties frequency, the dog's reaction to stressors, engagement with enrichment, and social interactions were significant predictors of chronic pain in dogs. Discussion This highlights that typical signs of musculoskeletal disorders such as gait changes, stiffness, lameness might manifest after behavioral changes such as increased fearfulness, prolonged recovery from a stressful event, a reduced interested in social interactions, toys or play. Owners only seeking veterinary attention when the presence of physical signs of disease are evident may result in a delayed veterinary attention resulting in reduced welfare. Regular veterinary assessments combined with use of the AWAG can proactively identify these behavioral indicators and result in prompt treatment and improved quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Malkani
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
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Menor-Campos DJ. Ethical Concerns about Fashionable Dog Breeding. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:756. [PMID: 38473141 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The historical relationship between humans and dogs has involved selective breeding for various purposes, such as hunting, guarding, and service roles. However, over time, there has been a shift in preferences from functionality to aesthetics, which has influenced the diverse sizes, shapes, and coats of dog breeds. This review looks at fashionable dog breeding and questions the ethics of prioritising looks over health and behaviour. It aims to alert potential owners, breeders, and regulators to the importance of considering a dog's overall well-being, not just its appearance, which has resulted in fad breeding, leading to genetic disorders, health issues, and a loss of biodiversity. Ethical concerns arise from breeding brachycephalic breeds with respiratory conditions, inbreeding causing inherited disorders, and overbreeding popular breeds while shelter dogs remain unadopted. Additionally, the impact of cosmetic surgeries on popular dog breeds, as well as the neglect of behavioural traits in favour of physical characteristics and strict breeding practices are also considered. The current breeding model can have a negative impact on the emotional and cognitive well-being of dogs, resulting in issues such as aggression, anxiety, and other behavioural problems that can significantly reduce their overall quality of life. Unregulated breeding practices and the demand for rare breeds can lead to illegal breeding, compromising animal welfare. Prospective owners, veterinarians, kennel clubs, and legislators all need to play a responsible role in protecting animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Menor-Campos
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Universidad de Córdoba, 14005 Córdoba, Spain
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Seidler S, Siedenburg J, Rhode M, Volk HA, Harms O. Dogs with Bilateral Medial Coronoid Disease Can Be Clinically Sound after Unilateral Arthroscopic Fragment Removal-Preliminary Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3803. [PMID: 38136840 PMCID: PMC10741036 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the outcome of dogs with bilateral medial coronoid disease (MCD) treated with arthroscopic intervention for the clinically more severely affected side and conservative management for the contralateral side. The medical records of dogs with bilateral medial coronoid disease diagnosed using computed tomography (CT) and treated using arthroscopic intervention on one elbow and conservative management on the other elbow were retrospectively reviewed. The outcome evaluation included clinical re-examination; follow-up radiographic-visible osteophytic lesions; as well as sclerotic changes and Liverpool osteoarthritis in a dogs questionnaire. Data from 48 clinically affected elbow joints (24 dogs) with bilateral MCD diagnosed using CT were included. Every dog underwent arthroscopic intervention on the elbow joint, which was clinically more severely affected, and the other side was treated with conservative management. A fragment of the medial coronoid was diagnosed using CT in all elbows, whereas 19 elbows (39.4%) showed a dislocation of the fragment and the other 29 elbows (60.4%) did not. There are no findings regarding the radioulnar Incongruence. Initially, 86% of all radiographs had the same degree of osteophytes. At the time of follow-up, the arthroscopic-treated limbs had more severe radiological changes in comparison to the conservatively treated limbs. Lameness improved after arthroscopic therapy in walking. The conservative group showed a largely unchanged gait pattern. Radiological changes do not necessarily reflect the severity of clinical signs. Arthroscopic intervention showed an improvement of the clinical gait pattern, even though the radiographic changes worsened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Seidler
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
- Clinic for Small Animals, 71640 Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Siedenburg
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Michaela Rhode
- Tierarztpraxis für Kleintierchirurgie, 58809 Neuenrade, Germany
| | - Holger A. Volk
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Oliver Harms
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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Obel C, Bergström A, Comin A, Engdahl K. Long-term outcomes in dogs with elbow dysplasia, assessed using the canine orthopaedic index. Vet Rec 2023; 193:e2950. [PMID: 37138533 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elbow dysplasia (ED) is an important cause of lameness in dogs. This study aimed to report long-term outcomes in dogs with elbow osteoarthritis. METHODS Demographic data, medical management, and scores from The American College of Veterinary Surgeons' Canine Orthopaedic Index (COI) were collected from owners of dogs radiographically screened for ED, graded as normal, mild, or moderate. Telephone interviews were performed in 2017 (Q1), followed by an email survey in 2020 (Q2). The association between ED grade and deterioration in COI scores over time was evaluated with logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 765 replies were collected for Q1 and 293 for Q2. At Q2, 222 dogs (76%) were alive, with a median age of 8 years (range 5-12 years). No association was found between ED and changes in COI score over time or between ED and survival (p = 0.071). Dogs with mild and moderate ED were treated with analgesic medications to a higher degree than dogs without ED (p < 0.05). LIMITATIONS Only owner-assed data were assessed; no clinical orthopaedic examination or follow-up radiographic evaluation was performed. CONCLUSIONS No association was found between the grade of ED and the worsening of clinical signs in dogs with elbow osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annika Bergström
- AniCura Albano Small Animal Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Arianna Comin
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karolina Engdahl
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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5
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Clark N, Comerford E. An update on mobility assessment of dogs with musculoskeletal disease. J Small Anim Pract 2023; 64:599-610. [PMID: 37455329 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Mobility impairments associated with musculoskeletal diseases, such as osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease, affect approximately 200,000 dogs annually and pose a notable challenge to canine health and welfare. Osteoarthritis causes the remodelling of synovial joints, alongside inflammation and impaired mechanical function which can be extremely debilitating. Secondary osteoarthritis commonly affects dogs and can be exacerbated by previous joint abnormalities, such as patellar luxation or cranial cruciate ligament rupture. Although musculoskeletal diseases can affect dogs of any age, the early subtle signs of gait abnormalities are perhaps missed by owners, thus, dogs may be in the latter stages of osteoarthritis progression when they are presented to veterinarians. Dogs showing subtle signs of gait abnormalities must be presented to veterinary practices for acute diagnosis to prevent long-term deterioration. Musculoskeletal diseases, such as osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease, are commonly diagnosed via visible radiographic changes. However, veterinarians can use a combination of subjective and objective clinical scoring systems, such as clinical metrology instruments and gait assessment in conjunction with radiography to aid their diagnosis and longitudinal monitoring of musculoskeletal diseases. These scoring systems may be more sensitive to earlier signs of mobility impairments in dogs, ultimately, promoting increased canine health and welfare by enabling pain reduction, improvement of muscle strength and preservation of joint function. Current canine mobility scoring systems available to veterinarians will be discussed in turn throughout this review for implementation into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Clark
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, William Henry Duncan Building, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - E Comerford
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, William Henry Duncan Building, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
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Domaniza M, Hluchy M, Cizkova D, Humenik F, Slovinska L, Hudakova N, Hornakova L, Vozar J, Trbolova A. Two Amnion-Derived Mesenchymal Stem-Cells Injections to Osteoarthritic Elbows in Dogs-Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2195. [PMID: 37443993 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the potential of cell-based regenerative therapy for elbow joints affected by osteoarthritis. Interest was focused on two intra-articular applications of amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells (A-MSCs) to a group of different breeds of dogs with elbow osteoarthritis (13 joints). Two injections were performed 14 days apart. We evaluated synovial fluid biomarkers, such as IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-15, IL-10, MCP-1, TNF-α, and GM-CSF, by multiplex fluorescent micro-bead immunoassay in the treated group of elbows (n = 13) (day 0, day 14, and day 28) and in the control group of elbows (n = 9). Kinematic gait analysis determined the joint range of motion (ROM) before and after each A-MSCs application. Kinematic gait analysis was performed on day 0, day 14, and day 28. Kinematic gait analysis pointed out improvement in the average range of motion of elbow joints from day 0 (38.45 ± 5.74°), day 14 (41.7 ± 6.04°), and day 28 (44.78 ± 4.69°) with statistical significance (p < 0.05) in nine elbows. Correlation analyses proved statistical significance (p < 0.05) in associations between ROM (day 0, day 14, and day 28) and IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-15, MCP-1, TNF-α, and GM-CSF concentrations (day 0, day 14, and day 28). IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-15, MCP-1, GM-CSF, and TNF- α showed negative correlation with ROM at day 0, day 14, and day 28, while IL-10 demonstrated positive correlation with ROM. As a consequence of A-MSC application to the elbow joint, we detected a statistically significant (p < 0.05) decrease in concentration levels between day 0 and day 28 for IFN-γ, IL-6, and TNF-α and statistically significant increase for IL-10. Statistical significance (p < 0.05) was detected in TNF-α, IFN-γ, and GM-CSF concentrations between day 14 and the control group as well as at day 28 and the control group. IL-6 concentrations showed statistical significance (p < 0.05) between day 14 and the control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Domaniza
- Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Marian Hluchy
- Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Dasa Cizkova
- Centre of Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 68/73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Filip Humenik
- Centre of Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 68/73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Lucia Slovinska
- Associated Tissue Bank, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University and L.Pasteur University Hospital, Trieda SNP 1, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Nikola Hudakova
- Centre of Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 68/73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Lubica Hornakova
- Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Juraj Vozar
- Centre of Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 68/73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Alexandra Trbolova
- Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81 Kosice, Slovakia
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Padula G, Garces GR, Fernández ME, Vercellini R, Arias DO, García PP, Giovambattista G. Preliminary transcriptomic analysis of peripheral blood from German Shepherd dogs with degenerative joint disease for the identification of diagnostic biomarkers. Gene 2023; 872:147455. [PMID: 37254296 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Degenerative joint disease (DJD) includes a group of disorders characterised by the deterioration of the articular cartilage. In this study, we investigated the transcriptomic profile of peripheral blood in German Shepherd dogs with DJD to identify putative diagnostic biomarkers. METHODS Differential gene expression (DGE) and gene ontology (GO) analyses of the bulk RNA-seq experiment were performed in a cohort of 12 adult dogs (five cases and seven controls, classified by clinical and radiographic analyses). RESULTS Radiographs of cases revealed severe signs of progressive DJD. Two up-regulated (LOC106559672 and THBS4) and one down-regulated (LOC106559235) differentially expressed genes (adjusted p value < 0.05) were identified. The DGE with log2 fold change < -1.5 and > 1.5 and non-adjusted p < 0.01 were selected for GO analysis. No significant enrichment terms were observed in the selected threshold. CONCLUSION The gene-encoding protein THBS4 is correlated with DJD severity and long noncoding RNA LOC106559235 is probably involved in the DJD process. The THBS4 gene should be considered a good biomarker for DJD in dogs. Future studies using independent cohorts will be necessary to validate the present results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisel Padula
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando Noel Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo UNLP, 60 y 122, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Rudd Garces
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando Noel Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - María Elena Fernández
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando Noel Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Rosario Vercellini
- Servicio de Radiología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Daniel Osvaldo Arias
- Servicio de Radiología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Pilar Peral García
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando Noel Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Guillermo Giovambattista
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando Noel Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, 60 y 118 S/N, 1900 La Plata, Argentina.
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Kaur B, Kaur J, Kashyap N, Arora JS, Mukhopadhyay CS. A comprehensive review of genomic perspectives of canine diseases as a model to study human disorders. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY RESEARCH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE RECHERCHE VETERINAIRE 2023; 87:3-8. [PMID: 36606040 PMCID: PMC9808881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The domestic dog has been given considerable attention as a system for investigating the genetics of human diseases. Population diversity and breed structure are unique features that make dogs particularly amenable to genetic studies. Dogs show distinguished features of breed-specific homogeneity, which is associated with striking interbreed heterogeneity. This review discusses the significance of studying the genetic maps, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and usefulness of this species as an animal model. Most canine genetic disorders are similar to those of humans, including inherited, psychiatric, and genetic disorders. In addition to revealing new candidate genes, canine models allow access to experimental resources, such as cells, tissues, and even live animals, for research and intervention purposes.
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Hebel M, Panek WK, Ruszkowski JJ, Nabzdyk M, Niedzielski D, Pituch KC, Jackson AM, Kiełbowicz M, Pomorska-Mól M. Computed tomography findings in a cohort of 169 dogs with elbow dysplasia - a retrospective study. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:296. [PMID: 34488762 PMCID: PMC8419939 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02997-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine elbow dysplasia (CED) is a complex developmental skeletal disorder associated with a number of pathological conditions within the cubital joint. Because CED is a heritable disease, it is important to identify and remove the affected animals from breeding. The first objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of medial coronoid process disease (MCPD) without (MCD) or with (FMCP) fragmented medial coronoid process, osteochondrosis (OC) and/or osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), ununited anconeal process (UAP), radio-ulnar incongruence (INC R-U) and humero-ulnar incongruence (INC H-U) in dogs with the use of CT imaging. The second aim was to determine the influence of demographics on the prevalence of investigated pathologies in dogs with clinical evidence of elbow dysplasia. Results In this retrospective study, CT data records of 169 dogs of different breeds presented to the small animal veterinary clinic from 2012 to 2018 were included. 69.23% of dogs diagnosed with CED were young (≤ 2 years old). The mean age of dogs presented with INC R-U was 1.68 ± 1.82 years, while in dogs without INC R-U the mean age was 2.64 ± 2.59 years. The mean age of dogs with INC H-U was 1.94 ± 2.06 years, while without INC H-U 3.29 ± 2.09 years. Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd and Bernese Mountain dogs were most frequently presented with CED-associated lameness. In 122 dogs OA of varying severity was found. Conclusion INC H-U, FMCP and MCD were among the most frequently found components of CED found in the present study. OCD and UAP were the least frequently diagnosed. Dogs presented with INC R-U and INC H-U were significantly younger than dogs without these CED components. Boxers, Dog de Bordeaux, American Staffordshire terriers and mixed-breed dogs were diagnosed later in life than the other breeds. OA of varying severity was found in 72.18% of dogs. Males accounted for more than 75% of the study population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Hebel
- Department of Internal Diseases and Diagnostics, Poznan University of Life Sciences, ul. Wołyńska 35, 60-637, Poznań, Poland
| | - Wojciech K Panek
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27607, USA
| | - Jakub J Ruszkowski
- Department of Animal Anatomy, Poznan University of Life Sciences, ul. Wojska Polskiego 71C, 60-625, Poznań, Poland. .,University Centre for Veterinary Medicine, Szydłowska 43, 60-656, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Maria Nabzdyk
- Department of Animal Anatomy, Poznan University of Life Sciences, ul. Wojska Polskiego 71C, 60-625, Poznań, Poland
| | - Dariusz Niedzielski
- Small Animal Veterinary Clinic, Klinika Psa i Kota, ul. Bolesława Krzywoustego 105/21, 51-166, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Katarzyna C Pituch
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Med, 676 N St. Clair, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Aaron M Jackson
- Department of Small Animal Surgery, Medvet Chicago, 3123 N. Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618, USA
| | - Maciej Kiełbowicz
- Department of Internal Diseases and Diagnostics, Poznan University of Life Sciences, ul. Wołyńska 35, 60-637, Poznań, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Pomorska-Mól
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Poznan University of Life Sciences, ul. Wołyńska 35, 60-637, Poznań, Poland
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Pegram C, Woolley C, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, O'Neill DG. Disorder predispositions and protections of Labrador Retrievers in the UK. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13988. [PMID: 34262062 PMCID: PMC8280121 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93379-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, therefore it is important to have reliable evidence on the general health issues of the breed. Using anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass Programme, this study aimed to explore the relative risk to common disorders in the Labrador Retriever. The clinical records of a random sample of dogs were reviewed to extract the most definitive diagnoses for all disorders recorded during 2016. A list of disorders was generated, including the 30 most common disorders in Labrador Retrievers and the 30 most common disorders in non-Labrador Retrievers. Multivariable logistic regression was used to report the odds of each of these disorders in 1462 (6.6%) Labrador Retrievers compared with 20,786 (93.4%) non-Labrador Retrievers. At a specific-level of diagnostic precision, after accounting for confounding, Labrador Retrievers had significantly increased odds of 12/35 (34.3%) disorders compared to non-Labrador Retrievers; osteoarthritis (OR 2.83) had the highest odds. Conversely, Labrador Retrievers had reduced odds of 7/35 (20.0%) disorders; patellar luxation (OR 0.18) had the lowest odds. This study provides useful information about breed-specific disorder predispositions and protections, which future research could evaluate further to produce definitive guidance for Labrador Retriever breeders and owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK.
| | - Charlotte Woolley
- The Roslin Institute and the Royal (Dick), School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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Válega A, Alves-Pimenta S, McEvoy FJ, Nielsen DH, Ginja M. Digital Analysis of Subtrochlear Sclerosis in Elbows Submitted for Dysplasia Screening. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:664532. [PMID: 34055952 PMCID: PMC8149609 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.664532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulnar trochlear notch (UTN) subchondral bone sclerosis is observed in elbow dysplasia (ED) associated with the medial coronoid disease. However, its evaluation is based on a simple visual examiner assessment of bone radio-opacity level and is considered subjective. The purpose of this study was to objectively characterize the radiographic opacity of the ulnar trochlear notch (UTN) subchondral bone in mediolateral elbow projections classified, using the International Elbow Working Group guidelines. Records and mediolateral flexed elbow images from the Danish Kennel Club database for the ED screening scheme between 2012 and 2018 were available. Of the dogs in the database, those with an ED-negative status in the left limb were identified. From these, 20 dogs each having a status free from ED, or with Grade 1, 2, or 3 in the right limb, were randomly chosen. Joints with primary ununited anconeal process were excluded from the sample. A template was developed using the ImageJ software, for computer UTN sclerosis analysis. It was overlaid onto each image to define five regions of interest (ROIs): ROI-1, distal UTN; ROI-2, middle UTN; ROI-3, caudal UTN; ROI-4, cortical bone; and ROI-5, bone marrow. Mean pixel intensity for each UTN ROI was divided by the mean pixel intensity of ROI-4 to normalize the data. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of the normalized pixel intensity in the disease joints (ED Grades 1, 2, and 3) was 1.18 ± 0.17, 1.03 ± 0.12, and 0.92 ± 0.09 for ROIs 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The corresponding values for the contralateral normal left joints were 1.16 ± 0.17, 1.01 ± 0.1, and 0.91 ± 0.08. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in the normalized mean pixel intensity in dysplastic vs. non-dysplastic elbow joints for ROIs 1 and 2. The raw mean pixel intensity from right and left cortical and marrow bone ROIs sometimes showed relatively large differences. Digital radiography is associated with exposure and post-processing variabilities. Differences in apparent radio-opacity (as indicated by pixel intensity) though statistically significant in dysplastic joints compared with contralateral normal joints are slight and are thus problematic for computer-aided assessments of UTN sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Válega
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Sofia Alves-Pimenta
- Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.,CITAB-Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Fintan J McEvoy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dorte H Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mário Ginja
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.,CITAB-Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
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Edmunds GL, Smalley MJ, Beck S, Errington RJ, Gould S, Winter H, Brodbelt DC, O'Neill DG. Dog breeds and body conformations with predisposition to osteosarcoma in the UK: a case-control study. Canine Med Genet 2021; 8:2. [PMID: 33750475 PMCID: PMC7944903 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-021-00100-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Osteosarcoma is an aggressive and painful bone neoplasm in dogs. Previous studies have reported epidemiological associations suggesting that large body mass, long bone length and the genetics of certain breeds including the Rottweiler are associated with elevated osteosarcoma risk. However, these studies were often limited by selection bias and confounding factors, and have rarely offered insights into breed-associated protection for osteosarcoma. The current study includes 1756 appendicular and axial osteosarcoma cases presenting to VPG Histology (Bristol, UK) compared against a control population of 905,211 dogs without osteosarcoma from primary care electronic patient records in the VetCompass™ dataset. Methods and study design Retrospective, case-control study. Multivariable logistic regression analysis explored associations between demographic risk factors (including breed, chondrodystrophy, age, sex/neuter status, skull-shape, and body mass) and osteosarcoma of all anatomical sites. Results We identified several breeds with increased and reduced odds of osteosarcoma. At highest risk were the Rottweiler and Great Dane, with > 10 times the odds of osteosarcoma compared with crossbreds, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback, which has not featured in previous lists of at-risk breeds for osteosarcoma, and had an odds ratio of 11.31 (95% confidence interval 7.37–17.35). Breeds at lowest risk of osteosarcoma (protected breeds) included the Bichon Frise, the French Bulldog and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, all with odd ratios of less than 0.30 compared with crossbreds. Body mass was strongly associated with osteosarcoma risk; dogs over 40 kg exhibited osteosarcoma odds of 45.44 (95% confidence interval 33.74–61.20) compared with dogs less than 10 kg. Chondrodystrophic breeds had an osteosarcoma odds ratio of 0.13 (95% confidence interval 0.11–0.16) compared with non-chondrodystrophic breeds. Conclusions This study provides evidence of strong breed-associated osteosarcoma risk and protection, suggesting a genetic basis for osteosarcoma pathogenesis. It highlights that breeds selected for long legs/large body mass are generally overrepresented amongst at-risk breeds, whilst those selected for short leg length/small body mass are generally protected. These findings could inform genetic studies to identify osteosarcoma risk alleles in canines and humans; as well as increasing awareness amongst veterinarians and owners, resulting in improved breeding practices and clinical management of osteosarcoma in dogs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40575-021-00100-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L Edmunds
- Bristol Veterinary School, Langford House, Langford, Bristol, BS40 5DU, UK.
| | - Matthew J Smalley
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute and School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Sam Beck
- VPG Histology (formerly Bridge), Horner Court, 637 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 0BJ, UK
| | - Rachel J Errington
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Academic Avenue, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF62 3LF, UK
| | - Sara Gould
- Langford Veterinary Services, Langford House Langford, Bristol, BS40 5DU, UK
| | | | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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13
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O'Neill DG, James H, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Pegram C. Prevalence of commonly diagnosed disorders in UK dogs under primary veterinary care: results and applications. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:69. [PMID: 33593363 PMCID: PMC7888168 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02775-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although dogs are a commonly owned companion animal in the UK, the species experiences many health problems that are predictable from demographic information. This study aimed to use anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass™ Programme to report the frequency of common disorders of dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2016 and to explore effects associated with age, sex and neuter status. Results From an available population of 905,543 dogs under veterinary care at 886 veterinary clinics during 2016, the current study included a random sample of 22,333 (2.47 %) dogs from 784 clinics. Prevalence for each disorder was calculated at the most refined level of diagnostic certainty (precise-level precision) and after grouping to a more general level of diagnostic precision (grouped-level precision). The most prevalent precise-level precision disorders recorded were periodontal disease (prevalence 12.52 %, 95 % CI: 12.09–12.97), otitis externa (7.30 %, 95 % CI: 6.97–7.65) and obesity (7.07 %, 95 % CI: 6.74–7.42). The most prevalent grouped-level disorders were dental disorder (14.10 %, 95 % CI: 13.64–14.56), skin disorder (12.58 %, 95 % CI: 12.15–13.02) and enteropathy (10.43 %, 95 % CI: 10.04–10.84). Associations were identified for many common disorders with age, sex and neuter. Conclusions The overall findings can assist veterinarians and owners to prioritise preventive care and to understand demographic risk factors in order to facilitate earlier diagnosis of common disorders in dogs. The information on associations with age, sex and neuter status provides additional contextual background to the complexity of disorder occurrence and supports targeted health controls for demographic subsets of dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK.
| | - Hannah James
- The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, W1J 8AB, Mayfair, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK
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14
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O'Neill DG, Pegram C, Crocker P, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Packer RMA. Unravelling the health status of brachycephalic dogs in the UK using multivariable analysis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17251. [PMID: 33057051 PMCID: PMC7560694 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73088-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Brachycephalic dog breeds are regularly asserted as being less healthy than non-brachycephalic breeds. Using primary-care veterinary clinical data, this study aimed to identify predispositions and protections in brachycephalic dogs and explore differing inferences between univariable and multivariable results. All disorders during 2016 were extracted from a random sample of 22,333 dogs within the VetCompass Programme from a sampling frame of 955,554 dogs under UK veterinary care in 2016. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression modelling explored brachycephaly as a risk factor for each of a series of common disorders. Brachycephalic dogs were younger, lighter and less likely to be neutered than mesocephalic, dolichocephalic and crossbred dogs. Brachycephalic differed to non-brachycephalic types in their odds for 10/30 (33.33%) common disorders. Of these, brachycephalic types were predisposed for eight disorders and were protected for two disorders. Univariable and multivariable analyses generated differing inference for 11/30 (30.67%) disorders. This study provides strong evidence that brachycephalic breeds are generally less healthy than their non-brachycephalic counterparts. Results from studies that report only univariable methods should be treated with extreme caution due to potential confounding effects that have not been accounted for during univariable study design or analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK.
| | - C Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - P Crocker
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - R M A Packer
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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