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Erger CG, Gerras AL, Conley AJ, Gilor C, Burns DeMarle K, Refsal KR, Fleming JM, Sledge DG, Langlois DK. Case report: Androgen-secreting adrenocortical tumors in eight cats. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1158142. [PMID: 37383353 PMCID: PMC10293747 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1158142] [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: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Urine marking, aggression, and other behavioral concerns are common reasons for cat owners to seek veterinary care. Empiric treatment for lower urinary tract disease or primary behavior disorders are commonly pursued, especially in those cases with normal routine laboratory evaluations. Herein, we report the clinicopathologic findings in eight sexually altered cats that were diagnosed with androgen-secreting adrenocortical tumors. Nearly all cats (n = 7) initially were evaluated for inappropriate urination and pungent urine, with additional behavioral concerns including aggression (n = 3) and excess vocalization (n = 4) commonly reported. Penile barbs (n = 5) were identified in all five male cats, and an enlarged clitoris was observed in one female cat. Testing of serum androgen concentrations revealed abnormally high androstenedione (n = 1) or testosterone (n = 7) concentrations. In the five cases with available adrenal tissue, histopathologic evaluation identified either an adrenocortical adenoma (n = 3) or adrenocortical carcinoma (n = 2). Hormonal abnormalities resolved and clinical signs improved in the four cats that underwent surgical adrenalectomy, with each of these cats surviving >1 year. However, clinical signs were minimally impacted with medical treatments, including one cat in which trilostane treatment failed to improve clinical signs or testosterone concentrations. This collection of cases underscores the importance of a detailed physical examination as well as the consideration of endocrine disturbances in cats undergoing evaluation for inappropriate urination or aggression. Furthermore, this report adds to the growing body of evidence that sex-hormone secreting adrenal tumors in cats may be an under-recognized syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caylen G. Erger
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Allison L. Gerras
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Alan J. Conley
- Department of Population Health & Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Chen Gilor
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Karah Burns DeMarle
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kent R. Refsal
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, Lansing, MI, United States
| | | | - Dodd G. Sledge
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Daniel K. Langlois
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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Pugliese M, Falcone A, Alibrandi A, Zirilli A, Passantino A. Risk Factors Regarding Dog Euthanasia and Causes of Death at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Italy: Preliminary Results. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9100554. [PMID: 36288167 PMCID: PMC9608742 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9100554] [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: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The decision to request and proceed with euthanasia in a dog is complex and predictors of such decisions are important. This study investigates the risk factors (demographic and clinical) associated with the main clinical causes and methods of death (euthanasia or unassisted death) in a population of dogs. By comparing euthanasia to unassisted deaths, the authors assess causes of death to evaluate their relative impacts on decision-making to choose euthanasia compared with an unassisted death. For this, goal data from electronic medical records of dogs who had died (unassisted death and euthanasia), obtained from an Italian referral veterinary teaching hospital from 2010 to 2020, were analyzed. The causes of death were categorized by pathophysiological process and the organ system. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors that significantly affect the probability of undergoing euthanasia and to individuate independent significant predictors of euthanasia and unassisted death, respectively. Death rate by euthanasia was 40.7% (125/307), by died unassisted 50.8% (156/307), whilst only 8.5% of dogs (26/307) died accidentally. The main causes of death for euthanasia were due to neoplastic (75.6%), degenerative (64.3%), and congenital (60%) diseases. Furthermore, the findings reveal that in deaths by euthanasia, the significant risk predictors were female gender, age, and neoplastic and degenerative processes; while in unassisted deaths, the significant risk predictors were male gender, age, and infection/inflammatory conditions. These preliminary outcomes highlight the information of this study which may be used to evaluate strategic interventions and health promotion strategies to be implemented, with consequent welfare gains for the canine population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Pugliese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Annastella Falcone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Alibrandi
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences, Department of Economics, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Agata Zirilli
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences, Department of Economics, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Annamaria Passantino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-90-676-6742
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Hevern ME. Welfare worries: a preliminary, cross-sectional study of general practice, small animal veterinarians perceptions and management of canine and feline behaviour problems. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:377-387. [PMID: 35615779 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Behavioural disease is one of the leading reasons for euthanasia in shelter dogs and cats. Information acquired via a survey of veterinarians (n = 59) was used to understand the way canine and feline behaviour problems are viewed and managed by nonshelter, small animal general practice veterinarians. Participants (20%, n = 12) felt that the following diseases were more of a welfare issue than behaviour problems: food sensitivity, osteoarthritis, puppy/kitten farms, skin disease, nutritional disease, parasitic disease, dental disease, obesity, in-breeding, over-population, neoplasia, greyhound racing, hyperthyroidism and renal disease. Behaviour problems in dogs and cats were not ranked in the top four welfare problems by 40% (n = 23) of respondents. Behaviour case follow-up was poorer than physical health case follow-up. Respondents (20%, n = 12) felt that veterinarians should 'possibly' be able to identify behaviour problems in dogs and cats, and 54% (n = 32) felt that this was 'absolutely' their professional responsibility. Twelve percent (n = 7) would reschedule behaviour appointments that had been booked in for them. Behaviour was more likely to be seen as a welfare issue by more experienced veterinarians and also, those with shelter experience. Half of respondents felt reluctant to discuss behaviour problems with clients because of deficiencies in behaviour knowledge. Eighty percent (n = 47) felt their education equipped them poorly or extremely poorly in dealing with behaviour problems in dogs and cats. Consideration should be given for the inclusion of adequate behavioural medicine content in veterinary medicine curriculum to allow for graduates to possess a basic level of training and competency in this discipline.
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Jafarian S, Akpek E, Reinhard CL, Watson B. A Qualitative Analysis of Clinical Year Veterinary Student Journal Entries for a Shelter Medicine Rotation. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:858419. [PMID: 35464351 PMCID: PMC9019659 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.858419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Veterinary medical schools are tasked with not only providing experiences necessary to graduate veterinarians proficient in the skills and knowledge used most frequently in private practice, but also develop expertise in animal behavior, welfare, ethics, veterinary forensics, and cultural competency. Integrating all these knowledge areas into the curriculum can be challenging. Shelter medicine is increasingly identified by educators as an optimal learning environment to offer exposure to these topics. It can not only meet learning objectives in veterinary medical curriculum, but also provide students with authentic learning experiences to engage in and gain a deeper understanding of cultural humility, implicit bias, diversity, and inclusion. This includes documentation of international learning outcomes for shelter medicine in veterinary medical curriculum. There have been no studies evaluating authentic learning experiences specific to shelter medicine programs and their impacts on students. The aim of this study was to determine the individual activities and thematic categories on which veterinary students chose to reflect on and their potential impacts during a clinical rotation in shelter medicine at Penn Vet through qualitative content analysis of their journal entries. In our study, students found experiences on the shelter medicine rotation to be beneficial to their growth as a future veterinarian, provided them with takeaways that they found applicable and practical, helped them self-identify knowledge gaps, and changed their perspectives on several important topics related to collective human and animal welfare. These results speak to the value perceived by students of the rotation and suggest an authentic learning experience through a shelter medicine program can help cultivate more practice-ready and culturally competent veterinary graduates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohaila Jafarian
- VCA Veterinary Care Animal Hospital and Referral Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Sohaila Jafarian
| | - Eda Akpek
- Mixed Methods Research Lab, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Chelsea L. Reinhard
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Brittany Watson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Rossi AP, Dos Santos CRC, Maia CM, Terzian CCB, Predebon DF, de Queiroz JSC, Pereira LPM, Bastos MZN, Choinski M, Tsapatsis PE, de Assis SRM, Corrêa TM. Rescued Cats Prefer to Scratch Fabrics Commonly Used to Cover Upholstered Furniture. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2021:1-12. [PMID: 34279154 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2021.1949595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Preference responses of cats for scratching fabrics commonly used on furniture were evaluated during four consecutive days in three Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that rescue companion animals. Cats were grouped and their choices were registered at a group level (no individual identification). Daily choices for chenille, suede, synthetic leather, or waterproof grosgrain fabrics were evaluated for the cats' groups. A preference for chenille and non-preference for synthetic leather and waterproof grosgrain was found, independent of the NGO. In conclusion, although not using chenille does not assure that cats stop scratching furniture - especially if no other option to scratch is available - synthetic leather and waterproof grosgrain seem to be less attractive fabrics for these animals. Further studies are needed to investigate whether these findings apply to cats in a home scenario, when just one or a few individuals are usually present and only one type of fabric covering furniture is commonly available. Although we did not investigate the effect of providing scratching posts for these animals, we recommend such posts are available in the environment as scratching behavior is important to cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre P Rossi
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Caroline M Maia
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil.,Consciência Animal Initiative - Advisory, Consultancy and Solutions on Animal Behavior and Welfare, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Deisy F Predebon
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Laraue P M Pereira
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Z N Bastos
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maurício Choinski
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Tatiana M Corrêa
- Group of Scientific Studies (GEC), Cão Cidadão Company, São Paulo, Brazil
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Effect of greeting and departure interactions on the development of increased separation-related behaviors in newly adopted adult dogs. J Vet Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Lilly ML, Gonçalves Arruda A, Proudfoot KL, Herron ME. Evaluation of companion animal behavior knowledge among first-year veterinary students before and after an introductory animal behavior course. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2020; 256:1153-1163. [PMID: 32364461 DOI: 10.2460/javma.256.10.1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To survey first-year veterinary students' knowledge of companion animal (dog, cat, and horse) behavior and popular-culture (ie, pop-culture) behavior myths related to animal body language, motivations, and learning prior to participation in an introductory animal behavior course; evaluate potential associations between sources of prior behavior knowledge and knowledge on the preclass survey; and determine whether postclass scores on the same survey were predictive of final examination score for the behavior class. SAMPLE 156 first-year veterinary students. PROCEDURES Students were invited to participate in an anonymous electronic survey before and after a semester-long, 2-credit introductory animal behavior course. Demographic features, self-assessed animal behavior knowledge, and sources of prior behavior knowledge were evaluated as predictors of preclass survey knowledge scores. Postclass survey knowledge scores were evaluated for association with final examination scores as a measure of validity. RESULTS Preclass knowledge scores were low (mean ± SD, 49 ± 12.7%; n = 152). Reporting peer-reviewed journal articles as a source of incoming knowledge predicted 9% higher scores, whereas reporting magazines or online pop-culture articles as a source of incoming knowledge predicted 7.6% lower scores for preclass behavior knowledge, compared with scores for students not citing those respective sources. Companion animal ownership was not associated with preclass survey knowledge scores. Postclass knowledge scores were substantially improved (mean ± SD, 84.3 ± 8%) and predictive of final examination scores. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated a profound deficit of behavior knowledge among veterinary students at the start of their curriculum. Students graduating from veterinary institutions without a comprehensive behavior course may be at a disadvantage for day 1 competency in addressing animal behavior problems.
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The Cat Desexing Policies and Activities of Private Veterinary Practices in Queensland. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10050841. [PMID: 32414142 PMCID: PMC7278410 DOI: 10.3390/ani10050841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cats are prolific breeders, and if most cats were desexed prior to puberty, numbers of unwanted cats and kittens, and hence numbers entering shelters, would be expected to decline. Although traditionally in Australia it has been reported that 90% of veterinary clients' cats are desexed, there are still hundreds of cats and kittens that end up unwanted and in shelter care annually. In this study, we surveyed Queensland veterinary practices to describe ages that veterinarians are recommending cats should be desexed at, ages at which desexing actually occurs, what veterinary practices are doing to promote desexing of cats, and what veterinarians see as the barriers to desexing of cats before puberty. A questionnaire was developed and sent to all veterinary practices in Queensland. The response rate was 50%. Almost 45% of respondents recommended desexing at the traditional age of 6 months, which is later than puberty in most cats; for more than 56% of practices, the actual average age at which desexing occurred was at least 6 months; and in a substantial proportion of practices, when desexed, high percentages of cats had already had litters. Most practices took steps to encourage their clients to have their cats desexed, and most thought these steps were effective. The results from this study suggest that although veterinarians generally agree that cats should be desexed prior to having their first litter, recommended and actual desexing ages are commonly too late to ensure this is achieved. Better understanding is required about both the likely impact of more veterinary practices recommending and conducting desexing before puberty on numbers of unwanted cats and numbers surrendered to shelters, and the drivers of age at which cats are desexed. This could inform strategies to reduce numbers of unwanted cats.
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Kogan LR, Hellyer PW, Rishniw M, Schoenfeld-Tacher R. Veterinary Behavior: Assessment of Veterinarians' Training, Experience, and Comfort Level with Cases. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2020; 47:158-169. [PMID: 31009279 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.0318-035r1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Studies of US animal shelters consistently indicate that behavior is often a major reason for relinquishment and, thereby, euthanasia of millions of dogs and cats annually. Even though this is an area in which veterinarians can intervene to support the human-animal bond, prior research has documented that they frequently do not bring the topic up during appointments. This study explored veterinarians' training in animal behavior and behavioral medicine, along with their level of comfort in treating common behavioral problems. An online survey of practicing veterinarians (N = 1,085) found that only 42.8% felt they'd received a significant amount of training in this field during veterinary school, but the majority reported participating in continuing education sessions about behavior. Almost all respondents reported seeing patients with behavioral issues (99.6%), even when the initial appointment was made for other reasons. Participants felt most comfortable discussing inappropriate elimination and begging for food but were least comfortable treating issues involving aggression. Most veterinarians treat their own behavior cases, using a combination of behavior modification techniques and medication. Only 22.1% refer cases needing behavioral therapy to a specialist. Given the prevalence of behavioral problems in companion animals and the potential for early veterinary intervention to play a significant role in animal health, it is important for veterinary schools to include this topic in their curricula. At present, 73% of schools require a course in animal behavior. The release of the new Competency-Based Veterinary Education framework is anticipated to support a greater teaching emphasis in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Kogan
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University
| | - Peter W Hellyer
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University
| | - Mark Rishniw
- Director of Clinical Research, Veterinary Information Network
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Learn A, Radosta L, Pike A. Preliminary assessment of differences in completeness of house-training between dogs based on size. J Vet Behav 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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van Haaften KA, Grigg EK, Kolus C, Hart L, Kogan LR. A survey of dog owners’ perceptions on the use of psychoactive medications and alternatives for the treatment of canine behavior problems. J Vet Behav 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Grigg EK, Kogan LR, van Haaften K, Kolus C. Cat owners' perceptions of psychoactive medications, supplements and pheromones for the treatment of feline behavior problems. J Feline Med Surg 2019; 21:902-909. [PMID: 30382770 PMCID: PMC11132244 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x18807783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study assessed cat owners' perceptions of the use of psychoactive medications and alternative products for the treatment of behavioral problems in their cats. Factors that potentially impact these perceptions were explored and discussed. METHODS An online, anonymous, cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess US-based cat owners' experiences with behavior problems of their cats, familiarity with psychoactive medications for treatment of behavior problems and comfort levels using the following products for treatment of feline behavior problems: fast-acting or situational prescription medications, slow-acting or long-term prescription medications, herbal/nutritional supplements, pheromone products and cannabinoid products. RESULTS Many respondents reported that their cats had behavioral problems, but few had ever sought behavioral help for their cats. Only half were aware of the availability of psychoactive medications for cat behavior problems. Respondents who had personally used a prescription psychoactive medication in the past were more comfortable with giving fast- and slow-acting prescription medications, pheromone products and cannabinoids to their cats than respondents who had never used a prescription psychoactive medication. No difference in comfort level was seen for herbal/nutritional supplements. Overall, owners tended to be more comfortable with the situational vs long-term medications. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Given the prevalence of feline behavior problems reported in this study, the lack of awareness of either the availability or potential benefits of psychoactive medications for the treatment of feline behavior problems, and the fact that very few owners had ever sought help for behavior problems with their cats, are concerning. These results suggest a missed opportunity for veterinarians to help clients identify, understand and treat feline behavior problems. Many owners appear open to these treatment options for their cats; it is suggested that, when warranted, educating cat owners about the potential benefits and risks of these medications would be of value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K Grigg
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Lori R Kogan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | | | - Cheryl Kolus
- Fort Collins Cat Rescue and Spay/Neuter Clinic, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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Vlerick L, Peremans K, Dockx R, Audenaert K, Baeken C, Saunders JH, Polis I. The long-term effects of single and repeated subanaesthetic ketamine administration on regional cerebral blood flow in healthy dogs measured with 99mTc-HMPAO SPECT. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2019; 285:18-24. [PMID: 30716686 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Subanaesthetic ketamine has recently been established as an effective and rapid treatment for major depressive disorder showing antidepressant effects for up to 1 week on average. The use of repeated ketamine infusions has been put forward to augment and to prolong the antidepressant response and increase the remission rates. The underlying neurobiological mechanisms responsible for ketamine's antidepressant effects remain unclear. Nevertheless, it has been shown, both in dogs and humans, that ketamine can alter neuronal perfusion and therefore neuronal function in brain regions involved in psychiatric and behavioural disorders. Consequently, the aim of the current placebo controlled study was to assess the long-term effects on cerebral perfusion of single and repeated subanaesthetic ketamine infusions in dogs. Twelve healthy, laboratory dogs were scanned at six different time points following single and repeated ketamine administration, using Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography with the radiotracer 99mTc-hexamethylpropylene amine oxime. We hypothesised that repeated infusions could lead to more prolonged perfusion alterations in brain regions critical for behaviour regulation. We found that repeated subanaesthetic ketamine administration did not result in more prolonged cerebral perfusion alterations compared to a single ketamine administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Vlerick
- Small Animal Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, East Flanders, Belgium.
| | - Kathelijne Peremans
- Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging and Small Animal Orthopaedics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, East Flanders, Belgium
| | - Robrecht Dockx
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) lab, Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium; Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital (UZBrussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kurt Audenaert
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) lab, Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium; Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital (UZBrussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Chris Baeken
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) lab, Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium; Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital (UZBrussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jimmy H Saunders
- Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging and Small Animal Orthopaedics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, East Flanders, Belgium
| | - Ingeborgh Polis
- Small Animal Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, East Flanders, Belgium
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15
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Koch CS. Veterinary behaviorists should be the first, not the last, resort for optimal patient care. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2018; 253:1110-1112. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.253.9.1110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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16
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Moesta A, Keys D, Crowell-Davis S. Survey of cat owners on features of, and preventative measures for, feline scratching of inappropriate objects: a pilot study. J Feline Med Surg 2018; 20:891-899. [PMID: 29082814 PMCID: PMC11129240 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x17733185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Objectives The objective of this study was to collect preliminary data on relevant features and preventative measures of feline inappropriate scratching. Preliminary data could then be used to inform future randomized controlled studies. Methods A paper questionnaire was distributed to 140 cat-owning clients of a small animal practice. The response rate was 82.9%. Questions related to features of inappropriate and designated items scratched, frequency of the behavior and how owners attempted to modify the behavior. The frequency of scratching was ranked and analyzed with repeated-measures models for differences between features of items. The effectiveness of techniques to modify scratching was analyzed with Student's t-tests comparing frequencies of scratching between cats of survey participants who did and did not use specific techniques. Results Scratching of inappropriate items was reported for 83.9% of cats. Most cats (81.5%) scratched chairs or other furniture and 64.1% scratched carpet. The frequency of scratching inappropriate items was significantly influenced by type and material of the items scratched, with furniture and carpet, and fabric and carpet, respectively, being scratched most often. Most cats (76.1%) had a designated scratching item. The frequency of scratching designated items was significantly influenced by type, with cats using scratching posts and other items more often than scratch pads. Owners used a variety of punishment- and reward-based techniques to stop inappropriate scratching and encourage scratching of designated items; only one technique was found to have a significant effect, with the frequency of scratching designated items being significantly lower in cats that were placed near the item. Conclusions and relevance Furniture covered with fabric was an object frequently scratched. Fabric should be further investigated as a potential material to encourage desired scratching behavior. Scratch pads appeared less desired than scratching posts. Punishment was a common strategy to deter scratching but did not appear to influence the frequency of scratching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Moesta
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Diagnostic Imaging, The College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Deborah Keys
- Independent Statistical Consultant, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Sharon Crowell-Davis
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Diagnostic Imaging, The College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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Abstract
Simple Summary Historically, older cats and dogs have been particularly at-risk for euthanasia in animal shelters due to their lower perceived appeal for adoption. This study found that the condition at intake had the greatest impact on the outcomes of older cats and dogs. Additionally, the application of specialized veterinary care, such as orthopedic surgery or chronic disease maintenance, is discussed as factors that inform higher rates of live outcomes for these senior companion animals. These findings demonstrate that if shelters integrate practices that address the specific needs of ageing companion animals, the live outcomes for this population can increase. Abstract With advances in veterinary medicine that can increase the lifespan of cats and dogs and the effectiveness of spay/neuter programs in reducing the juvenile population of pets, animal shelters are experiencing an increasing population of older companion animals in their care. The purpose of this study was to assess the factors that inform the outcomes of these older cats and dogs. The sample consisted of 124 cats and 122 dogs that were over the age of 84 months (seven years) who were taken into a shelter over a one-year period. To assess the impact of condition at intake on the outcome for the senior animals, a multinomial logistic regression was performed. These findings indicate that preventative programming that can address the reasons these older animals are surrendered, as well as advancements in specialized medical or behavioral programs for ageing companion animals, may support an increase in live outcomes for older cats and dogs in shelters. Further study is needed to evaluate how the quality of life of older animals is impacted by remaining in the care of shelters rather than being euthanized.
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Siracusa C, Provoost L, Reisner IR. Dog- and owner-related risk factors for consideration of euthanasia or rehoming before a referral behavioral consultation and for euthanizing or rehoming the dog after the consultation. J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Calder CD, Albright JD, Koch C. Evaluating graduating veterinary students' perception of preparedness in clinical veterinary behavior for “Day-1” of practice and the factors which influence that perception: A questionnaire-based survey. J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Perioperative mortality in cats and dogs undergoing spay or castration at a high-volume clinic. Vet J 2017; 224:11-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Duffy DL, de Moura RTD, Serpell JA. Development and evaluation of the Fe-BARQ: A new survey instrument for measuring behavior in domestic cats (Felis s. catus). Behav Processes 2017; 141:329-341. [PMID: 28232232 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A questionnaire instrument for obtaining quantitative behavioral evaluations of pet cats from cat owners was developed and validated. Exploratory Factor Analysis of 2608 questionnaire responses to 149 behavioral questions/items extracted a total of 23 distinct factors that measured most of the more common dimensions of cat behavior. Seventeen of the 23 factors demonstrated adequate-high internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.712-0.923). Questionnaire validation was accomplished by determining: (a) whether owners' subjective ratings of the severity of their cat's behavior problems were associated with cats' actual scores on expected questionnaire factors, (b) whether expected associations between specific demographic and/or lifestyle characteristics and behavior were confirmed by cats' factor or item scores on the questionnaire, and (c) whether breed rankings based on owner-reported factor scores matched those previously derived from the opinions of experts (veterinarians). The results of these various tests confirmed the overall construct validity of the questionnaire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah L Duffy
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6010, USA
| | | | - James A Serpell
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6010, USA.
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Dolan ED, Scotto J, Slater M, Weiss E. Risk Factors for Dog Relinquishment to a Los Angeles Municipal Animal Shelter. Animals (Basel) 2015; 5:1311-28. [PMID: 26690483 PMCID: PMC4693217 DOI: 10.3390/ani5040413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Low income has been reported to be a risk factor for dog relinquishment to shelters in the U.S. The majority of people with lower incomes, however, do not relinquish. Risk factors for relinquishment in a low socioeconomic region of Los Angeles were examined. Cost was associated with relinquishment, and most people were not aware of available assistance. Those who relinquished reported emotional attachment to the dog and higher perceived stress than a comparison group. The majority of reasons for relinquishment were likely solvable with assistance, highlighting an opportunity to provide community-specific alternatives to relinquishment. Abstract Dog relinquishment is a large component of shelter intake in the United States. Research has shown traits of the dog are associated with relinquishment as well as general characteristics of those relinquishing. Low income is often cited as a risk factor for relinquishment. The majority of people with lower incomes, however, do not relinquish. A group of people accessing a shelter in a low socioeconomic region of Los Angeles to relinquish their dogs was surveyed. This study examined risk factors for relinquishment, controlling for household income, compared to a group utilizing low cost spay/neuter services. A total of 76.9% of those relinquishing noted cost as a reason for relinquishment. Of participants in the relinquishment group, 80.7% reported not being aware of any services available to them. Most notable in the findings was that the odds of relinquishment were generally higher as the amount of perceived stress in the home in the past three months increased. The majority of people in both groups reported being emotionally attached to the dog. In this sample from a South Los Angeles community, the majority of reasons for relinquishment were likely solvable with assistance. These findings highlight an opportunity to assess community needs and provide community specific alternatives to relinquishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily D Dolan
- Shelter Research and Development, Community Outreach, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 307 NE Thornton Place #510, Seattle, WA 98125, USA.
| | - Jamie Scotto
- Shelter Research and Development, Community Outreach, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 520 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018, USA.
| | - Margaret Slater
- Shelter Research and Development, Community Outreach, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 50 Stone Ridge Drive, Florence, MA 01062, USA.
| | - Emily Weiss
- Shelter Research and Development, Community Outreach, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 3201 SW Winding Way, Palm City, FL 34990, USA.
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Porters N, Polis I, Moons CPH, Van de Maele I, Ducatelle R, Goethals K, Duchateau L, de Rooster H. Relationship between age at gonadectomy and health problems in kittens adopted from shelters. Vet Rec 2015; 176:572. [PMID: 25820324 DOI: 10.1136/vr.102678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Prepubertal gonadectomy (PPG) is promoted as a way of managing overpopulation in cats, but concerns about PPG and potential health issues still exist. The objective of the present study was to evaluate short-term and long-term health problems in cats subjected to PPG in comparison to gonadectomy at traditional age (TAG). In a prospective clinical trial, 800 shelter kittens aged between approximately 8 weeks and 12 weeks were recruited before adoption and randomly assigned to either the PPG group (gonadectomy performed immediately) or the TAG group (gonadectomy delayed until six months to eight months of age). Short-term health issues included mortality between when kittens arrived at the clinic and up to seven days after they returned to the shelter, as well as the occurrence of various other health issues arising in the first month following adoption. Kittens were followed-up until 24 months of age specifically for feline lower urinary tract disease, urethral obstruction (male cats), lameness, fractures and hypersensitivity disorders with dermatological presentation. In the short term, there were no significant differences between health problems in PPG and TAG kittens. Similarly, no significant differences were observed between treatment groups in terms of the type or number of health issues in the long term. In conclusion, there are no health-related contraindications to advocating PPG strategies in shelter cats. Ideally, PPG should be performed at the shelter facility itself as long as excellent infectious disease control and postoperative clinical observation before adoption are guaranteed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Porters
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Biology of Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - I Polis
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Biology of Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - C P H Moons
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - I Van de Maele
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Biology of Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - R Ducatelle
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - K Goethals
- Department of Comparative Physiology and Biometrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - L Duchateau
- Department of Comparative Physiology and Biometrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - H de Rooster
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Biology of Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Weiss E, Gramann S, Victor Spain C, Slater M. Goodbye to a Good Friend: An Exploration of the Re-Homing of Cats and Dogs in the U.S. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4236/ojas.2015.54046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Porters N, de Rooster H, Verschueren K, Polis I, Moons CP. Development of behavior in adopted shelter kittens after gonadectomy performed at an early age or at a traditional age. J Vet Behav 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Stavisky
- University of Nottingham; Sutton Bonington Loughborough Leicestershire LE12 5RD UK
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The contribution of cat owners’ attitudes and behaviours to the free-roaming cat overpopulation in Tel Aviv, Israel. Prev Vet Med 2012; 104:125-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2011.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2010] [Revised: 10/22/2011] [Accepted: 11/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Gaskins LA, Bergman L. Surveys of avian practitioners and pet owners regarding common behavior problems in psittacine birds. J Avian Med Surg 2012; 25:111-8. [PMID: 21877448 DOI: 10.1647/2010-027.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Avian veterinarians and pet bird owners were solicited to participate in online surveys to gather information about behavior problems in pet birds. A total of 84 avian veterinarians' and 203 psittacine bird owners' responses were analyzed. Behaviors with a high prevalence and a high level of owner concern, in descending order, were aggression, screaming, and feather picking. Veterinarians reported that the most common behavior problems presented to them were feather picking, chronic egg laying, aggression, and screaming, in that order. Most owners seeking advice went elsewhere before talking to their veterinarian. When consulted, most veterinarians recommended a combination of a medical workup, nutritional changes, housing changes, and environmental enrichments for these problem behaviors. Because owners do not often seek a veterinarian's advice, behavior problems exist in birds that are not being addressed by veterinarians. Advising veterinarians to question owners about problem behaviors at every visit will facilitate discussion and improve the treatment and welfare of pet psittacine birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Gaskins
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St Matthew's University, PO Box 32330 SMB, Grand Cayman KY1-1209, Cayman Islands, British West Indies
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Maximising canine welfare in veterinary practice and research: a review. Vet J 2011; 192:272-8. [PMID: 22196830 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2011.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Revised: 10/20/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This article looks at the existing evidence-base by which veterinary surgeons can make welfare-focused treatment choices. Narrative and structured reviews were conducted. Papers were categorised under headings based on (1) themes in the UK Animal Welfare Act (AWA 2006) - behaviour, environment, nutrition, company and health; (2) iatrogenic harm induced by treatment; (3) decision-making methods, and (4) the subjects' context (e.g. home versus laboratory). There is more information available about 'overt' problems (e.g. acute disease), than 'covert' issues (e.g. chronic pain, lack of company and obesity). Forty of 109 papers covered pain, suffering, injury and disease, compared to 69 across four other themes in the AWA. Twelve papers were identified as focusing on welfare assessment and clinical decision-making. Veterinary surgeons should consider each of the five welfare themes described in the AWA in both veterinary practice and in determining veterinary research priorities.
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34
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Diagnosis and Management of Patients Presenting with Behavior Problems. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2008; 38:937-50, v. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2008.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Sherman BL, Mills DS. Canine Anxieties and Phobias: An Update on Separation Anxiety and Noise Aversions. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2008; 38:1081-106, vii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2008.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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36
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The prevention of undesirable behaviors in dogs: effectiveness of veterinary behaviorists' advice given to puppy owners. J Vet Behav 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2008.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Juarbe-Díaz SV. Behavioral medicine opportunities in North American colleges of veterinary medicine: A status report. J Vet Behav 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2007.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Sherman BL, Serpell JA. Training veterinary students in animal behavior to preserve the human-animal bond. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2008; 35:496-502. [PMID: 19228899 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.35.4.496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of animal behavior is an extremely important component of modern veterinary practice. Appreciation of species-typical behavior helps to ensure that veterinary patients are handled safely and humanely, and plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis of health and welfare problems in animals, including the recognition of pain and distress. Veterinary students who acquire a good understanding of animal behavior will be better clinicians and will be best able to promote and repair the "human-animal bond," that important connection between people and their pets. Animal behavior problems can negatively impact this critical relationship, leading to abandonment, re-homing, relinquishment to an animal shelter, and sometimes premature euthanasia of the animal. Therefore, identifying, preventing, and treating behavior problems is important in maintaining the human-animal bond. Education in animal behavior should be an essential part of the veterinary curriculum; a board-certified veterinary behaviorist should be an integral member of the veterinary college faculty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara L Sherman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Animal Behavior Service, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC 27606-1499, USA.
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39
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Kustritz MVR. Determining the optimal age for gonadectomy of dogs and cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007; 231:1665-75. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.231.11.1665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Segurson SA, Serpell JA, Hart BL. Evaluation of a behavioral assessment questionnaire for use in the characterization of behavioral problems of dogs relinquished to animal shelters. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005; 227:1755-61. [PMID: 16342523 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2005.227.1755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate a behavioral intake questionnaire in animal shelters for the presence of biased results and assess its use in the characterization of behavioral problems of dogs relinquished to shelters. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. Animals-54 dogs being relinquished to a shelter and 784 dogs belonging to veterinary clients. Procedure-Owners who were relinquishing their dogs and agreed to complete the behavioral questionnaire were alternately assigned to 1 of 2 groups; participants were aware that information provided would be confidential or nonconfidential (i.e., likely used for adoption purposes). Data from confidential and nonconfidential information groups were compared, and the former were compared with data (collected via the questionnaire) regarding a population of client-owned dogs. RESULTS Analyses revealed significant differences in 2 areas of reported problem behavior between the confidential and nonconfidential information groups: owner-directed aggression and stranger-directed fear. Compared with client-owned-group data, significantly more relinquished shelter dogs in the confidential information group were reported to have owner-directed aggression, stranger-directed aggression, dog-directed aggression or fear, stranger-directed fear, nonsocial fear, and separation-related behaviors. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Among persons relinquishing dogs to a shelter, those who believed questionnaire responses were confidential reported owner-directed aggression and fear of strangers in their pets more frequently than relinquishers who believed responses were nonconfidential. Confidentiality had no apparent effect on the reporting of other assessed behavioral problems. Results suggest that behavioral questionnaires may sometimes provide inaccurate information in a shelter setting, but the information may still be useful when evaluating behavior of relinquished dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila A Segurson
- Center for Companion Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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43
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Overall KL, Rodan I, Beaver BV, Carney H, Crowell-Davis S, Hird N, Kudrak S, Wexler-Mitchel E. Feline behavior guidelines from the American Association of Feline Practitioners. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005; 227:70-84. [PMID: 16013540 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2005.227.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Overall
- Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Psychiatry Department, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Overall KL. Proceedings of the Dogs Trust Meeting on Advances in Veterinary Behavioural Medicine London; 4th–7th November 2004. Vet J 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2004.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Overall KL. Medical differentials with potential behavioral manifestations. CLINICAL TECHNIQUES IN SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE 2004; 19:250-258. [PMID: 18371322 DOI: 10.1053/j.ctsap.2004.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Overall
- Psychiatry Department, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 415 Curie Drive, 50 B-CRB, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Hetts S, Heinke ML, Estep DQ. Behavior wellness concepts for general veterinary practice. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004; 225:506-13. [PMID: 15344354 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2004.225.506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Hetts
- Animal Behavior Associates Inc, Littleton, CO 80123, USA
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47
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Overall KL. Commentary for special issue on feline behavior. J Feline Med Surg 2004; 6:1-4. [PMID: 15123160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfms.2003.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 08/13/2003] [Accepted: 09/25/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Overall
- Psychiatry Department, Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine, 50B-CRB, 415 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Spain CV, Scarlett JM, Houpt KA. Long-term risks and benefits of early-age gonadectomy in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004; 224:380-7. [PMID: 14765797 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2004.224.380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the long-term risks and benefits of early-age gonadectomy, compared with traditional-age gonadectomy, among dogs adopted from a large animal shelter. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. ANIMALS 1,842 dogs. PROCEDURE Dogs underwent gonadectomy and were adopted from an animal shelter before 1 year of age; follow-up was available for as long as 11 years after surgery. Adopters completed a questionnaire about their dogs' behavior and medical history. When possible, the dogs' veterinary records were reviewed. Associations between the occurrence of 56 medical and behavioral conditions and dogs' age at gonadectomy were evaluated. RESULTS Among female dogs, early-age gonadectomy was associated with increased rate of cystitis and decreasing age at gonadectomy was associated with increased rate of urinary incontinence. Among male and female dogs with early-age gonadectomy, hip dysplasia, noise phobias, and sexual behaviors were increased, whereas obesity, separation anxiety, escaping behaviors, inappropriate elimination when frightened, and relinquishment for any reason were decreased. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Because early-age gonadectomy appears to offer more benefits than risks for male dogs, animal shelters can safely gonadectomize male dogs at a young age and veterinary practitioners should consider recommending routine gonadectomy for client-owned male dogs before the traditional age of 6 to 8 months. For female dogs, however, increased urinary incontinence suggests that delaying gonadectomy until at least 3 months of age may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Victor Spain
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Mealey K, Peck K, Bennett B, Sellon R, Swinney G, Melzer K, Gokhale S, Krone T. Systemic Absorption of Amitriptyline and Buspirone after Oral and Transdermal Administration to Healthy Cats. J Vet Intern Med 2004. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2004.tb00133.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Duxbury MM, Jackson JA, Line SW, Anderson RK. Evaluation of association between retention in the home and attendance at puppy socialization classes. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003; 223:61-6. [PMID: 12839065 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2003.223.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate associations between retention of dogs in their adoptive homes and attendance at puppy socialization classes and other factors. DESIGN Epidemiologic survey. ANIMALS 248 adult dogs that were adopted as puppies from a humane society. PROCEDURE Owners completed questionnaires regarding demographics, retention of the dogs in the homes, and the dogs' early learning events. RESULTS Higher retention in the homes was reported for dogs that participated in humane society puppy socialization classes, were female, wore headcollars as puppies, were handled frequently as puppies, were more responsive to commands, slept on or near the owner's bed, or lived in homes without young children. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggest several practices that veterinarians may recommend to enhance the likelihood that puppies will remain in their first homes, such as enrolling 7- to 12-week-old puppies in early learning and socialization classes. The lower rate of retention of dogs in homes with children emphasizes the importance of helping owners develop realistic expectations, knowledge, and effective tools to manage interactions between their children and dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret M Duxbury
- Center to Study Human Animal Relationships and Environments, College of Veterinary Medicine and School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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