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Pegram C, Diaz-Ordaz K, Brodbelt DC, Chang YM, von Hekkel AF, Wu CH, Church DB, O'Neill DG. Target Trial Emulation: Does surgical versus non-surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs cause different outcomes? Prev Vet Med 2024; 226:106165. [PMID: 38503655 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Target trial emulation applies design principles from randomised controlled trials to the analysis of observational data for causal inference and is increasingly used within human epidemiology. Using anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass Programme, this study applied the target trial emulation framework to determine whether surgical (compared to non-surgical) management for cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in dogs causes improved short- and long-term lameness and analgesia outcomes. The emulated target trial included dogs diagnosed with CCL rupture between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 within the VetCompass database. Inclusion in the emulated trial required dogs aged ≥ 1.5 and < 12 years, first diagnosed with unilateral CCL rupture during 2019 and with no prior history of contralateral ligament rupture or stifle surgery. Dogs were retrospectively observed to have surgical or non-surgical management. Informed from a directed acyclic graph derived from expert opinion, data on the following variables were collected: age, breed, bodyweight, neuter status, insurance status, non-orthopaedic comorbidities, orthopaedic comorbidities and veterinary group. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to adjust for confounding, with weights calculated based on a binary logistic regression exposure model. Censored dogs were accounted for in the IPTW analysis using inverse probability of censoring weighting (IPCW). The IPCWs were combined with IPTWs and used to weight each dog's contribution to binary logistic regression outcome models. Standardized mean differences (SMD) examined the balance of covariate distribution between treatment groups. The emulated trial included 615 surgical CCL rupture cases and 200 non-surgical cases. The risk difference for short-term lameness in surgically managed cases (compared with non-surgically managed cases) was -25.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) -36.7% to -15.9%) and the risk difference for long-term lameness -31.7% (95% CI -37.9% to -18.1%). The study demonstrated the application of the target trial framework to veterinary observational data. The findings show that surgical management causes a reduction in short- and long-term lameness compared with non-surgical management in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Karla Diaz-Ordaz
- University College London, Department of Statistical Science, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Yu-Mei Chang
- Research Support Office, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Anna Frykfors von Hekkel
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Chieh-Hsi Wu
- Statistical Sciences Research Institute, University of Southampton, University Road, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, 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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O'Neill DG, Komutrattananon R, Church DB, Hartley AN, Brodbelt DC. The epidemiology of tick infestation in dog breeds in the UK. J Small Anim Pract 2024. [PMID: 38653546 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence and risk factors for tick infestation in dogs in the UK based on anonymised electronic patient records. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical records of dogs under veterinary care in 2016 at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme were followed over a 5-year period to identify cases of tick infestation. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS The study included 905,553 dogs. From a random sample, 1903 tick infestation cases were identified. The estimated 5-year (2014 to 2018) period prevalence was 2.03% (95% confidence interval: 2.00 to 2.06). Sixteen breeds showed increased odds compared with non-designer-crossbreed dogs. Breeds with the highest odds included Cairn terrier (odds ratio 2.86, 95% confidence interval 1.64 to 4.98), standard poodle (odds ratio 2.80, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 6.29) and Goldendoodle (odds ratio 2.63, 95% confidence interval 1.17 to 5.91). Six breeds showed reduced odds, with lowest odds shown by Staffordshire bull terrier (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.25 to 0.50), Rottweiler (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.85) and Chihuahua (odds ratio 0.38, 95% confidence interval 0.26 to 0.55). Males had 1.24 (95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.36) times the odds of females. Compared with non-designer-crossbred dogs, designer-crossbreed dogs had increased odds (odds ratio 1.81, 95% confidence interval 1.52 to 2.15). Compared with breeds with short coats, breeds with medium length coats (odds ratio 2.20, 95% confidence interval 1.96 to 2.48) showed increased odds. Breeds with V-shaped drop and pendulous ear carriage had higher odds compared with breeds with erect ear carriage. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE These findings provide an evidence base for veterinary professionals to raise awareness of tick infestation as a preventable disorder in dogs in the UK and to support more effective prevention and therapeutic protocols based on targeted approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R Komutrattananon
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A N Hartley
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Dale F, Brodbelt DC, West G, Church DB, Lee YH, O'Neill DG. Demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzu dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Med Genet 2024; 11:2. [PMID: 38263229 PMCID: PMC10807147 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-023-00135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shih Tzus are a popular dog breed in the UK although there is relatively little reported information on their health. This study aimed to characterise the demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzus under primary veterinary care during 2016 in the UK using de-identified clinical records from the VetCompass™ Programme. RESULTS The study population of 336,865 dogs under veterinary care during 2016 included 11,082 Shih Tzus (3.3%). The median age was 4.1 years (IQR: 2.1-7.1, range: 0.3-20.4) and mean adult bodyweight was 7.9 kg (SD: 1.9 kg). Annual proportional births increased from 2.2% of all dog births in 2005 to 3.8% in 2013, dropping to 3.3% by 2016. From a random subset of 2,423 Shih Tzus that had information extracted on disorders diagnosed during 2016, the most prevalent fine-level precision disorders were periodontal disease (n = 229, prevalence 9.5%, 95% CI: 8.4-10.7), anal sac impaction (180, 7.4%, 95% CI: 6.5-8.5) and ear disorders (134, 5.5%, 95% CI: 4.7-6.5). The most prevalent grouped-level precision disorders were cutaneous (n = 402, prevalence: 16.6%, 95% CI: 15.2-18.1), dental (322, 13.3%, 95% CI: 12.0-14.7), and ophthalmological (289, 11.9%, 95% CI: 10.7-13.3). Males were more likely than females to be diagnosed with skin disorders (P = 0.007) and musculoskeletal disorders (P = 0.010) while females were more likely than males to be diagnosed with hernias (P = 0.005). The median age of death was 12.7 years (IQR 8.7-14.3, range 2.0-19.9) and did not differ statistically between males and females. The most common grouped causes of death were enteropathy (7.9%, 95% CI: 3.9-15.4), heart disease (7.9%, 95% CI: 3.9-15.4) and poor quality of life (7.9%, 95% CI: 3.9-15.4). CONCLUSIONS Periodontal disease, anal sac impaction and ear disorders were identified as common health issues. Shih Tzus had higher prevalence of anal sac impaction, umbilical hernias and eye problems than reported previously in dogs overall, suggesting potential predispositions. Shih Tzus appear to be relatively long-lived compared to previous reports of lifespan in dogs overall. The results can inform veterinarians and owners on priority disorders for monitoring to protect welfare. Oral hygiene was highlighted as a healthcare priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Dale
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK.
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Gabriella West
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Yan Hui Lee
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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Engdahl KS, Brodbelt DC, Cameron C, Church DB, O'Neill DG. English Cocker Spaniels under primary veterinary care in the UK: disorder predispositions and protections. Canine Med Genet 2024; 11:1. [PMID: 38233914 PMCID: PMC10795400 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-023-00136-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The English Cocker Spaniel (ECS) is one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK but information on disorder predisposition and protection is limited. Using anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass™ Programme, this study aimed to compare disorder predisposition and protection between the ECS and the remaining dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2016. Electronic patient records for random samples of ECS and non-ECS were reviewed. The most common disorders diagnosed during 2016 were extracted and compared using multivariable logistic regression, controlling for confounders. RESULTS The analysis included random samples of 2510/10,313 (24.3%) ECS and 7813/326,552 (2.39%) non-ECS. After accounting for confounding by age, sex, bodyweight within breed-sex, insurance status and veterinary practice group, the ECS had increased odds of 21/43 (48.85%) disorders at fine-level precision, with highest odds for aural discharge (odds ratio (OR) 14.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.73-30.90, P < 0.001) and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (OR 7.64, 95% CI: 4.33-14.14, P < 0.001) and lowest odds for atopic dermatitis (OR 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05-0.31, P < 0.001) and allergy (OR 0.14, 95% CI: 0.06-0.28, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence for strong predisposition to aural and ocular disorders and protection from hypersensitivity disorders in the ECS. These results can aid dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians to better monitor health in ECS, and promote earlier diagnosis with improved prognosis. Further, the results can help breeding organisations establish key priorities the health-based reforms of the ECS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina S Engdahl
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, PO Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Carla Cameron
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, 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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O'Neill DG, Engdahl KS, Leach A, Packer RMA, Church DB, Brodbelt DC. Is it now time to iron out the wrinkles? Health of Shar Pei dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Med Genet 2023; 10:11. [PMID: 38093396 PMCID: PMC10720141 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-023-00134-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Shar Pei is a common dog breed with a distinctive appearance caused by hyaluronosis that has been linked with several health conditions. Anonymised primary-care veterinary clinical records were explored to extract data on the demography, common disorders and mortality of Shar Pei in the UK in 2013. RESULTS The study population of 455,557 dogs included 1913 (0.42%) Shar Pei. The mean adult bodyweight was 22.26 kg. The most prevalent fine-level precision disorders were entropion (prevalence 17.88%, 95% CI: 16.16-19.59), otitis externa (16.36%, 95% CI: 14.70-18.02), ear disorders (6.69%, 95% CI: 5.57-7.81), aggression (5.23%, 95% CI: 4.23-6.22), and pyoderma (4.29%, 95% CI: 3.38-5.19). The most prevalent disorder groups were ophthalmologic (prevalence = 22.27%, 95% CI: 20.40-24.13), dermatological (21.01%, 95% CI: 19.19-22.84), aural (18.66%, 95% CI: 16.92-20.41), traumatic injury (7.53%, 95% CI: 6.35-8.71) and behavioural (7.21%, 95% CI: 6.05-8.37). The median longevity of 190 Shar Pei that died during the study period was 7.28 years (IQR 5.04-10.05, range 0.04-15.04). Of 184 deaths with a recorded method of death, 157 (85.33%) deaths involved euthanasia and 27 (14.67%) deaths were unassisted. Among 136 (71.58%) deaths with a recorded biomedical cause of death, the most common causes of death at group level precision were neoplasia (15.44%, 95% CI: 9.37-21.51), renal disorders (13.24%, 95% CI: 7.54-18.93), and behavioural disorders (11.03%, 95% CI: 5.76-16.29). CONCLUSIONS Almost one fifth of Shar Pei receive veterinary care each year for entropion, a condition linked strongly with the extreme conformation of thickened and folded skin and bristly hair that characterises the Shar Pei breed. Several other common disorders are also linked to hyaluronosis. Current UK legislation can help support efforts to avoid breeding or acquiring animals with extreme conformations and to promote adequate veterinary care for already-owned animals with extreme conformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Karolina S Engdahl
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, PO Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alice Leach
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Pegram C, Diaz-Ordaz K, Brodbelt DC, Chang YM, Tayler S, Allerton F, Prisk L, Church DB, O’Neill DG. Target trial emulation: Do antimicrobials or gastrointestinal nutraceuticals prescribed at first presentation for acute diarrhoea cause a better clinical outcome in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK? PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291057. [PMID: 37792702 PMCID: PMC10550114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Target trial emulation applies design principles from randomised controlled trials to the analysis of observational data for causal inference and is increasingly used within human epidemiology. Veterinary electronic clinical records represent a potentially valuable source of information to estimate real-world causal effects for companion animal species. This study employed the target trial framework to evaluate the usefulness on veterinary observational data. Acute diarrhoea in dogs was used as a clinical exemplar. Inclusion required dogs aged ≥ 3 months and < 10 years, presenting for veterinary primary care with acute diarrhoea during 2019. Treatment strategies were: 1. antimicrobial prescription compared to no antimicrobial prescription and 2. gastrointestinal nutraceutical prescription compared to no gastrointestinal nutraceutical prescription. The primary outcome was clinical resolution (defined as no revisit with ongoing diarrhoea within 30 days from the date of first presentation). Informed from a directed acyclic graph, data on the following covariates were collected: age, breed, bodyweight, insurance status, comorbidities, vomiting, reduced appetite, haematochezia, pyrexia, duration, additional treatment prescription and veterinary group. Inverse probability of treatment weighting was used to balance covariates between the treatment groups for each of the two target trials. The risk difference (RD) of 0.4% (95% CI -4.5% to 5.3%) was non-significant for clinical resolution in dogs treated with antimicrobials compared with dogs not treated with antimicrobials. The risk difference (RD) of 0.3% (95% CI -4.5% to 5.0%) was non-significant for clinical resolution in dogs treated with gastrointestinal nutraceuticals compared with dogs not treated with gastrointestinal nutraceuticals. This study successfully applied the target trial framework to veterinary observational data. The findings show that antimicrobial or gastrointestinal prescription at first presentation of acute diarrhoea in dogs causes no difference in clinical resolution. The findings support the recommendation for veterinary professionals to limit antimicrobial use for acute diarrhoea in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Karla Diaz-Ordaz
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dave C. Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Yu-Mei Chang
- Research Support Office, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Tayler
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Fergus Allerton
- Willows Veterinary Centre & Referral Centre, Solihull, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Prisk
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - David B. Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Dan G. O’Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
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O'Neill DG, McMillan KM, Church DB, Brodbelt DC. Dog breeds and conformations in the UK in 2019: VetCompass canine demography and some consequent welfare implications. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288081. [PMID: 37494312 PMCID: PMC10370710 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Growing concerns over health and welfare impacts from extreme phenotypes in dogs have created an urgent need for reliable demographic information on the national breed structures of dogs. METHODS This study included all dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2019 at practices participating in VetCompass. Demographic data on these dogs were analysed to report on the frequency of common breeds and also to report on conformation, bodyweight, sex and neuter associations with these breeds. RESULTS The study included 2,237,105 dogs under UK veterinary care in 2019. Overall, 69.4% (n = 1,551,462) were classified as purebred, 6.7% (149,308) as designer-crossbred and 24.0% (536,335) as nondesigner-crossbred. Across 800 unique breed names, the most frequent breeds at any age were nondesigner-crossbred (n = 536,335, 24.0%), Labrador Retriever (154,222, 6.9%) and Jack Russell Terrier (101,294, 4.5%). Among 229,624 (10.3%) dogs aged under one year, the most frequent breeds were nondesigner-crossbred (n = 45,995, 20.0%), French Bulldog (16,036, 7.0%) and Cockapoo (14,321, 6.2%). Overall, based on breed characteristics, 17.6% (395,739) were classified as brachycephalic, 43.1% (969,403) as mesaticephalic and 8.3% (186,320) as dolichocephalic. Of 1,551,336 dogs that were classifiable based on breed, 52.6% (815,673) were chondrodystrophic. Of 1,462,925 dogs that were classifiable, there were 54.6% (n = 798,426) short haired, 32.6% (476,883) medium haired and 12.8% (186,934) long haired. Of 1,547,653 dogs that were classifiable for ear carriage, 24.5% (n = 379,581) were erect, 28.1% (434,273) were semi-erect, 19.7% (305,475) were v-shaped drop and 27.7% (428,324) were pendulous. Overall, there was a 1.09:1.00 ratio of male (n = 1,163,512; 52.2%) to female dogs (n = 1,067,552; 47.8%). CONCLUSIONS Health and welfare issues linked to popular breeds with extreme phenotypes suggest that there is much work to do to help owners to make more welfare-friendly decisions when choosing which type of dog to own.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsten M McMillan
- DataSEA (Science, Engineering & Analytics), Research Team, Strategy & Transformation, Dogs Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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O'Neill DG, Edmunds GL, Urquhart-Gilmore J, Church DB, Rutherford L, Smalley MJ, Brodbelt DC. Dog breeds and conformations predisposed to osteosarcoma in the UK: a VetCompass study. Canine Med Genet 2023; 10:8. [PMID: 37365662 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-023-00131-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone neoplasia that has high welfare consequences for affected dogs. Awareness of breed and canine conformational risk factors for osteosarcoma can assist with earlier diagnosis and improved clinical management. Study of osteosarcoma in dogs also offers translational value for humans. Anonymised clinical data within VetCompass on dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK were searched for osteosarcoma cases. Descriptive statistics reported overall and breed-specific prevalence. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS From 905,552 study dogs, 331 osteosarcoma cases were confirmed yielding a one-year period prevalence of 0.037% (95% CI: 0.033-0.041). Breeds with the highest annual prevalence were the Scottish Deerhound (3.28%, 95% CI 0.90-8.18), Leonberger (1.48%, 95% CI 0.41- 3.75), Great Dane (0.87%, 95% CI 0.43- 1.55) and Rottweiler (0.84%, 95% CI 0.64-1.07). The median age at diagnosis was 9.64 years (IQR: 7.97-11.41). Following multivariable modelling, 11 breeds showed increased odds of osteosarcoma compared with crossbred dogs. Breeds with the highest odds included Scottish Deerhound (OR 118.40, 95% CI 41.12-340.95), Leonberger (OR 55.79, 95% CI 19.68-158.15), Great Dane (OR 34.24, 95% CI 17.81-65.83) and Rottweiler (OR 26.67, 95% CI 18.57-38.29). Compared with breeds with mesocephalic skull conformation, breeds with dolichocephalic skull conformation (OR 2.72, 95% CI 2.06-3.58) had increased odds while breeds with brachycephalic skull conformation showed reduced odds (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.32-0.80). Chondrodystrophic breeds had 0.10 times the odds (95% CI 0.06-0.15) compared with non-chondrodystrophic breeds. Increasing adult bodyweight was associated with increasing odds of osteosarcoma. CONCLUSIONS The current study cements the concept that breed, bodyweight and longer leg or longer skull length are all strong risk factors for osteosarcoma in dogs. With this awareness, veterinarians can update their clinical suspicion and judgement, breeders can select towards lower-risk animals, and researchers can robustly define more useful study populations for fundamental and translational bioscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK.
| | - Grace L Edmunds
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol and Langford Vets, Stock Lane, Langford, BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Jade Urquhart-Gilmore
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Lynda Rutherford
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Matthew J Smalley
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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O'Neill DG, Skipper AM, Barrett K, Church DB, Packer RMA, Brodbelt DC. Demography, common disorders and mortality of Boxer dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Med Genet 2023; 10:6. [PMID: 37259166 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-023-00129-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Boxer is a popular dog breed with a distinctive appearance. However, the breed has been linked with several health conditions, some of which have been associated with its moderately brachycephalic conformation and its white colouration. Anonymised primary-care veterinary clinical records were explored to extract data on the demography, common disorders and mortality of Boxers in the UK in 2016. RESULTS The study population of 336,865 dogs included 3,219 (0.96%) Boxers, of which 10.71% were recorded as white. The mean adult bodyweight was 30.43 kg (SD 5.73 kg). Annual disorder counts did not differ statistically between the sexes or between white and non-white Boxers. The most prevalent fine-level precision disorders were otitis externa (n = 230, 7.15%), epulis (188, 5.84%), corneal ulceration (161, 5.00%) and periodontal disease (149, 4.63%). Of the 34 most common fine-level disorders, none differed in prevalence between white and non-white dogs. The most prevalent disorder groups were skin disorder (n = 571, 17.74%), neoplasia (457, 14.20%) and ear disorder (335, 10.41%). White Boxers had higher prevalence than non-white Boxers for two disorder groups: dental disorder and brain disorder. The median longevity of 346 Boxers that died during the study was 10.46 years (IQR 9.00-11.98, range 2.76-18.00). Median longevity did not differ statistically between the sexes or between white and non-white Boxers. The most common grouped causes of death were death - unrecorded cause (n = 73, 21.10%), neoplasia (43, 12.43%) and brain disorder (33, 9.54%). CONCLUSIONS There was minimal evidence of substantial health differences between white and non-white Boxers. Among the four most common disorders recorded in Boxers, two were typically common across all types of dogs (otitis externa and periodontal disease) while two suggested strong predispositions for the Boxer breed (epulis and corneal ulceration), showing the value of eliciting breed-specific disorder patterns for insights for potential health reforms. The overall longevity of Boxer dogs was consistent with other breeds of similar body size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK.
| | - Alison M Skipper
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Kate Barrett
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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Heeley AM, Brodbelt DC, O'Neill DG, Church DB, Davison LJ. Assessment of glucocorticoid and antibiotic exposure as risk factors for diabetes mellitus in selected dog breeds attending UK primary-care clinics. Vet Rec 2023; 192:e2785. [PMID: 37004211 PMCID: PMC10952602 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important endocrine disorder in dogs. This study explored prior exposure to glucocorticoids or antibiotic treatment as risk factors for developing DM in dogs attending primary-care VetCompass clinics in the UK. METHODS A breed frequency matched case-control study nested in a cohort of dogs (n = 480,469) aged 3 years or over was used to explore associations between glucocorticoid and antibiotic exposure and the odds of developing DM. RESULTS A total of 565 cases and 2179 controls were included. Dogs with DM had over four times the odds of exposure to glucocorticoids within 6 weeks prior to diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] 4.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.41-6.89, p < 0.001) compared to controls within 6 weeks prior to a randomly selected quasi-date of diagnosis. Dogs that had only one unique documented antibiotic course had a decreased odds of developing DM (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46-0.91, p = 0.012) compared to dogs that had no documented courses of antibiotics. LIMITATIONS This study only included selected breeds, so the results may not be generalisable to all dog breeds. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to glucocorticoids is associated with a substantial increase in the risk of developing DM for the dog breeds included in this analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Heeley
- Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
| | - Dave C. Brodbelt
- Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
| | - Dan G. O'Neill
- Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
| | - David B. Church
- Department of Clinical Science and ServicesRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
| | - Lucy J. Davison
- Department of Clinical Science and ServicesRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldUK
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Engdahl KS, Brodbelt DC, Cameron C, Church DB, Hedhammar Å, O'Neill DG. Demography and disorders of English Cocker Spaniels under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Med Genet 2023; 10:4. [PMID: 37202773 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-023-00128-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The English Cocker Spaniel (ECS) is a common family dog in the UK. This study aimed to describe demography, morbidity, and mortality in ECS under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2016 using data from the VetCompass™ Programme. This study hypothesised that the prevalence of aggression is higher in male than female ECS, and higher in solid-coloured than bi-coloured ECS. RESULTS English Cocker Spaniels comprised 10,313/336,865 (3.06%) of dogs under primary veterinary care during 2016. The median age was 4.57 years (inter-quartile range (IQR) 2.25-8.01) and the median adult bodyweight was 15.05 kg (IQR 13.12-17.35). The annual proportional birth rate was relatively stable between 2.97-3.51% from 2005-2016. The most common specific diagnoses were periodontal disease (n = 486, prevalence 20.97%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 19.31-22.62), otitis externa (n = 234, 10.09%, 95% CI: 8.87-11.32), obesity (n = 229, 9.88%, 95% CI: 8.66-11.09), anal sac impaction (n = 187, 8.07%, 95% CI: 6.96-9.18), diarrhoea (n = 113, 4.87%, 95% CI: 4.00-5.75), and aggression (n = 93, 4.01%, 95% CI: 3.21-4.81). The prevalence of aggression was higher in males (4.95%) than in females (2.87%) (P = 0.015) and in solid-coloured (7.00%) than in bi-coloured dogs (3.66%) (P = 0.010). The median age at death was 11.44 years (IQR 9.46-13.47) and the most common grouped causes of death were neoplasia (n = 10, 9.26%, 95% CI: 3.79-14.73), mass-associated disorders (n = 9, 8.33%, 95% CI: 4.45-15.08), and collapse (n = 8, 7.41%, 95% CI: 3.80-13.94). CONCLUSIONS Periodontal disease, otitis externa, and obesity are identified as the most common health issues for ECS, and neoplasia and mass-associated disorders as the most common reasons for death. The prevalence of aggression was higher in males and solid-coloured dogs. The results can aid veterinarians in giving evidence-based health and breed choice information to dog owners and highlights the importance of thorough oral examination and body condition score evaluation during routine veterinary examination of ECS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina S Engdahl
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, PO Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Carla Cameron
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Åke Hedhammar
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, PO Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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12
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O'Neill DG, Blenkarn A, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Freeman A. Periodontal disease in cats under primary veterinary care in the UK: frequency and risk factors. J Feline Med Surg 2023; 25:1098612X231158154. [PMID: 36912667 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x231158154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Periodontal disease is a multifactorial inflammatory disease that can have major welfare implications in cats. This study aimed to report the frequency and demographic risk factors of periodontal disease and to explore associations with common comorbid disorders in cats in the UK. METHODS The study included a random sample of 18,249 cats obtained from 1,255,130 cats under primary care during 2019 from clinics participating in the VetCompass programme. All disorders recorded during 2019 were extracted and reported. Risk factor and comorbid disorder analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS Periodontal disease had a 1-year period prevalence of 15.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 14.72-15.76). Breeds with the highest prevalence included Siamese (18.7%, 95% CI 12.24-26.72) and Maine Coon (16.7%, 95% CI 11.37-23.18). The median age of cats with periodontal disease (9.47 years, interquartile range [IQR] 5.96-12.97) was higher than for cats without periodontal disease (4.94 years, IQR 1.95-9.51; P <0.001). Increasing adult body weight, increasing age and sex-neuter status were significantly associated with rising odds of periodontal disease. Cats with periodontal disease had a higher median count of comorbid disorders per individual cat (3, IQR 2-4, range 1-14) than cats without periodontal disease (1, IQR 0-2, range 0-15; P <0.001). Cats with periodontal disease had 1.79 times the odds (95% CI 1.62-1.99, P <0.001) of diagnosis with at least one comorbid disorder disease than cats without periodontal disease. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Periodontal disease is the most common specific diagnosis in cats and is confirmed as a leading health issue in cats. Ageing is identified as the strongest predictor of periodontal disease risk in cats, suggesting the potential for increasing health gains from emphasis on dental care and health in cats as they age. The study offers evidence on a close link between periodontal disease and reduced overall health in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alyx Blenkarn
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alix Freeman
- Department of Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Eastcott Referrals, Swindon, UK
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13
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O'Neill DG, Gunn-Moore D, Sorrell S, McAuslan H, Church DB, Pegram C, Brodbelt DC. Commonly diagnosed disorders in domestic cats in the UK and their associations with sex and age. J Feline Med Surg 2023; 25:1098612X231155016. [PMID: 36852509 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x231155016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to generate a robust evidence base on the prevalence of common disorders in cats and develop a deeper understanding of disorder associations with sex and age that could offer important opportunities for targeted veterinary care to improve feline health and welfare. METHODS A random sample of 18,249 cats was obtained from 1,255,130 cats under primary care during 2019 within VetCompass, an epidemiological research programme based on anonymised primary care veterinary clinical records. All disorders recorded during 2019 were extracted and reported, and associations with sex and age were examined. RESULTS The most prevalent disorders were periodontal disease (n = 2780 [15.2%], 95% confidence interval [CI] 14.72-15.76), obesity (n = 2114 [11.6%], 95% CI 11.12-12.06) and dental disease (n = 1502 [8.2%], 95% CI 7.84-8.64). Compared with male cats, females had an increased prevalence of poor quality of life, postoperative complications and hyperthyroidism, among others. Male cats had a higher prevalence of periodontal disease, road traffic accident (RTA) and obesity. Younger cats (<8 years) had an increased prevalence of cat bite abscess, flea infestation and RTA, while older cats (⩾8 years) had increased prevalence of lameness, cystitis and dental disease, among others. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE These findings suggest that the veterinary profession needs to engage more effectively in informing owners on common preventable disorders (ie, obesity and dental disease). This new information can contribute to more targeted health surveillance and more effective veterinary interventions to promote improved health and welfare in pet cats. Large-scale collection and analysis of anonymised veterinary clinical records offer an important clinical resource for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - Danièlle Gunn-Moore
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, UK
| | | | - Harriet McAuslan
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK
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Pegram C, Brodbelt DC, Diaz-Ordaz K, Chang Y, von Hekkel AF, Church DB, O'Neill DG. Risk factors for unilateral cranial cruciate ligament rupture diagnosis and for clinical management in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Vet J 2023; 292:105952. [PMID: 36708945 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.105952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate demographic risk factors associated with unilateral cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture diagnosis and to explore demographic and clinical risk factors associated with management of unilateral CCL rupture in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. A retrospective cohort study design was used. Clinical records were automatically searched and manually verified for incident cases of unilateral CCL rupture during 2019 and additional clinical management information extracted. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was used to evaluate associations between risk factors and: (1) CCL rupture diagnosis; and (2) clinical management (surgical or non-surgical). The analysis included 1000 unilateral CCL rupture cases and a random selection of 500,000 non-cases. After accounting for confounding factors, dogs aged 6 to < 9 years, male neutered and female neutered dogs, insured dogs, and Rottweiler, Bichon Frise, and West Highland White terrier breeds, in particular, had increased odds of unilateral CCL rupture diagnosis. Insured dogs and dogs ≥ 20 kg had increased odds of surgical management, while dogs ≥ 9 years and dogs with one non-orthopaedic comorbidity at diagnosis with CCL rupture had reduced odds. These findings inform identification of at-risk dogs, with Rottweilers and Bichon Frise particularly predisposed. Additionally, they contribute to a greater understanding of the clinical rationales used in primary-care veterinary practices to decide between surgical or non-surgical management of unilateral CCL rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - K Diaz-Ordaz
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Y Chang
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A Frykfors von Hekkel
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, UK
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Niessen SJM, Bjornvad C, Church DB, Davison L, Esteban-Saltiveri D, Fleeman LM, Forcada Y, Fracassi F, Gilor C, Hanson J, Herrtage M, Lathan P, Leal RO, Loste A, Reusch C, Schermerhorn T, Stengel C, Thoresen S, Thuroczy J. Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology (ALIVE): Diabetes mellitus - a modified Delphi-method-based system to create consensus disease definitions. Vet J 2022; 289:105910. [PMID: 36182064 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2022.105910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stijn J M Niessen
- Royal Veterinary College, NW1 0TU London, UK; Veterinary Specialist Consultations, 1215JX Hilversum, the Netherlands.
| | - Charlotte Bjornvad
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | - Yaiza Forcada
- Royal Veterinary College, NW1 0TU London, UK; Veterinary Specialist Consultations, 1215JX Hilversum, the Netherlands
| | - Federico Fracassi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 1088 Bologna, Italy
| | - Chen Gilor
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Jeanette Hanson
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Clinical Sciences, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Michael Herrtage
- Cambridge University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, CB3 0ES Cambridge, UK
| | - Patty Lathan
- Mississippi State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Starkville, MS 39762, USA
| | - Rodolfo O Leal
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Araceli Loste
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, Facultad de Veterinaria, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Claudia Reusch
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse faculty of the University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Schermerhorn
- Dept Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | | | - Stein Thoresen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1433 Ås, Norway
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16
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O'Neill DG, Khoo JSP, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Pegram C, Geddes RF. Frequency, breed predispositions and other demographic risk factors for diagnosis of hypothyroidism in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Genet Epidemiol 2022; 9:11. [PMID: 36217196 PMCID: PMC9552398 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-022-00123-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypothyroidism is a commonly diagnosed endocrinopathy in dogs. This study aimed to investigate the frequency and risk factors for diagnosis of hypothyroidism in UK primary-care practice. Dogs diagnosed with hypothyroidism were identified by searching electronic patient records of primary-care practices participating in VetCompass. A cohort study design estimated one-year (2016) period prevalence and incidence risk for hypothyroidism. Multivariable binary logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between demographic risk factors and hypothyroidism. Results From 905,553 dogs, 2,105 dogs were recorded with diagnosed hypothyroidism in 2016; 359 incident and 1,746 pre-existing, giving an annual prevalence of 0.23% (95% CI 0.22–0.24) and annual incidence risk of 0.04% (95% CI 0.04–0.04). Multivariable logistic regression identified 24 predisposed and nine protected breeds. Standard Doberman pinscher (odds ratio [OR] = 17.02, 95% CI 12.8–22.64), Tibetan terrier (11.25, 95% CI 8.27–15.32) and boxer (10.44, 95% CI 8.66–12.58) breeds showed high predisposition. Pug (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.09–0.89), Yorkshire terrier (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.24–0.59), Shih-tzu (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.23–0.64) and Jack Russell terrier (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.29–0.54) were the most protected breeds. Overall, being a purebred dog, being insured, having bodyweight above the breed-sex mean, increasing age, being neutered and rising adult bodyweight also showed increased odds being a dog living with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Conclusions Several strong breed predispositions for diagnosis of hypothyroidism were identified that can assist with disorder prioritisation in ongoing efforts to improve breed health. Other risk factors were also identified that can assist veterinary surgeons during clinical work-up of suspected cases. Identification of novel evidence for protected breeds provides useful information for research into genetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK.
| | - Janine Su Pheng Khoo
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Rebecca F Geddes
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
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17
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O’Neill DG, Skipper A, Packer RMA, Lacey C, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Pegram C. English Bulldogs in the UK: a VetCompass study of their disorder predispositions and protections. Canine Med Genet 2022; 9:5. [PMID: 35701824 PMCID: PMC9199211 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-022-00118-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The English Bulldog has risen sharply in popularity over the past decade but its distinctive and extreme conformation is linked to several serious health conditions. Using multivariable analysis of anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass Programme, this study compared the odds of common disorders between English Bulldogs and all remaining dogs in the UK during 2016. RESULTS From 905,544 dogs under veterinary care during 2016, the analysis included a random sample of 2,662 English Bulldogs and 22,039 dogs that are not English Bulldogs. English Bulldogs had 2.04 times the odds of diagnosis with ≥ 1 disorder than dogs that are not English Bulldogs (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.85 to 2.25). At a specific-level of diagnostic precision, English Bulldogs had increased odds of 24/43 (55.8%) disorders. These included: skin fold dermatitis (odds ratio [OR] 38.12; 95% CI 26.86 to 54.10), prolapsed nictitating membrane gland (OR 26.79; 95% CI 18.61 to 38.58) and mandibular prognathism (OR 24.32; 95% CI 13.59 to 43.53). Conversely, English Bulldogs had significantly reduced odds of 6/43 (14.0%) disorders. These included: retained deciduous tooth (OR 0.02; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.17), lipoma (OR 0.06; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.40) and periodontal disease (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.18 to 0.30). At a grouped-level of diagnostic precision, English Bulldogs had significantly increased odds of 17/34 (50.0%) disorders. These included: congenital disorder (OR 7.55; 95% CI 5.29 to 10.76), tail disorder (OR 6.01; 95% CI 3.91 to 9.24) and lower respiratory tract disorder (OR 5.50; 95% CI 4.11 to 7.35). Conversely, English Bulldogs had significantly reduced odds of 3/34 (8.8%) disorders. These were: dental disorder (OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.31), spinal cord disorder (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.71) and appetite disorder (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.91). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the health of English Bulldogs is substantially lower than dogs that are not English Bulldogs and that many predispositions in the breed are driven by the extreme conformation of these dogs. Consequently, immediate redefinition of the breed towards a moderate conformation is strongly advocated to avoid the UK joining the growing list of countries where breeding of English Bulldogs is banned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G. O’Neill
- grid.20931.390000 0004 0425 573XPathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA Herts UK
| | - Alison Skipper
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Department of History, King’s College London, Strand, London, WC2R 2LS UK
| | - Rowena M. A. Packer
- grid.20931.390000 0004 0425 573XClinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA Herts UK
| | - Caitriona Lacey
- grid.20931.390000 0004 0425 573XPathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA Herts UK
| | - Dave C. Brodbelt
- grid.20931.390000 0004 0425 573XPathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA Herts UK
| | - David B. Church
- grid.20931.390000 0004 0425 573XClinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA Herts UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- grid.20931.390000 0004 0425 573XPathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA Herts UK
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O'Neill DG, Sahota J, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Packer RMA, Pegram C. Health of Pug dogs in the UK: disorder predispositions and protections. Canine Med Genet 2022; 9:4. [PMID: 35581668 PMCID: PMC9115981 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-022-00117-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pugs are a brachycephalic dog breed that has become phenomenally popular over recent decades. However, there is growing concern about serious health and welfare issues in the breed. To augment the evidence-base on the comparative health of Pugs, this study aimed to compare the odds of common disorders between Pugs and all remaining dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2016. A cross-sectional study design of VetCompass clinical records was used to estimate the one-year (2016) period prevalence for the disorders most commonly diagnosed in Pugs and non-Pugs. Risk factor analysis applied multivariable logistic regression modelling methods to compare the odds of 40 common disorders between Pugs and non-Pugs. RESULTS From a study population of 905,544 dogs, the analysis included random samples of 4308 Pugs and 21,835 non-Pugs. Pugs were younger (2.36 years, range 0.07-16.24 vs 4.44 years, range 0.01-20.46, p < 0.001) and lighter (8.95 kg, range 5.00-13.60 vs. 14.07 kg, range 1.41-85.00, p < 0.001) than non-Pugs. Pugs had 1.86 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.72 to 2.01) times the adjusted odds of diagnosis with ≥1 disorder than non-Pugs. Pugs had significantly increased adjusted odds for 23/40 (57.5%) common disorders. These included: brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (odds ratio [OR] 53.92; 95% CI 36.22 to 80.28), stenotic nares (OR 51.25; 95% CI 24.93 to 105.37) and corneal ulceration (OR 13.01; 95% CI 10.50 to 16.11). Conversely, Pugs had significantly reduced adjusted odds of 7/40 (17.5%) common disorders compared to non-Pugs. These included: heart murmur (OR 0.23; 95% 0.13 to 0.14), lipoma (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.11 to 0.55) and aggression (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.21 to 0.47). CONCLUSIONS The current study highlights that predispositions outnumber protections between Pugs and non-Pugs for common disorders, suggesting some critical health welfare challenges to overcome for Pugs. Highly differing heath profiles between Pugs and other dogs in the UK suggest that the Pug has diverged substantially from mainstream dog breeds and can no longer be considered as a typical dog from a health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Jaya Sahota
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Beeston D, Humm K, Church DB, Brodbelt D, O'Neill DG. Occurrence and clinical management of urethral obstruction in male cats under primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom in 2016. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:599-608. [PMID: 35199370 PMCID: PMC8965234 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Urethral obstruction (UO) has a negative effect on welfare of cats. Objectives This study aimed to determine incidence, case management, and outcomes of UO in cats in primary‐care practice in the United Kingdom. Animals All male cats under veterinary care within the VetCompass database in 2016. Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed. The electronic records of all male cats with a clinical note during the study period were searched for UO cases and were manually reviewed for inclusion. Additional demographic and clinical information were extracted on cases. Results From the study cohort of 237 825 male cats, there were 1293 incident cases. The estimated UO incidence risk during 2016 was 0.54 (95% CI: 0.51‐0.57). Demographic and clinical data were available for 1108 cases. Antibiotics were administered to 641/1108 (57.9%) cases. Overall repeat catheterization rate was 253/854 (29.6%). Repeat catheterization at 48 hours was less frequent in patients with indwelling catheters (10.1%) vs those that had a catheter placed and then immediately removed (14.8%; P = .04). Death during a UO episode was 329/1108 (29.6%), and 285/329 (88.0%) deaths involved euthanasia. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Antibiotics were commonly prescribed in cats for treatment of UO despite minimal evidence in the clinical records of bacterial cystitis. Repeat catheterization was common and case fatality rate during a UO episode was high. Repeat catheterization within 48 hours of elective removal of a urethral catheter was less common in cats that had previously had indwelling catheters. The majority of cats requiring repeat catheterization survived until the end of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dave Beeston
- Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Humm
- Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - David B Church
- Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - David Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Dan Gerard O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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20
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O’Neill DG, Yin Y, Tetas Pont R, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Pegram C, Mustikka M. Breed and conformational predispositions for prolapsed nictitating membrane gland (PNMG) in dogs in the UK: A VetCompass study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0260538. [PMID: 35081121 PMCID: PMC8791520 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Prolapsed nictitating membrane gland (PNMG) is the most common disorder of the third eyelid in dogs. However, the epidemiology of PNMG in the wider dog population remains understudied. Methods Using de-identified clinical data from the VetCompass Programme, this cohort study aimed to report the prevalence, demographic and breed-related risk factors of PNMG in dogs attending UK primary care veterinary practices in 2016. Results There were 1,802 PNMG cases identified from 905,543 dogs, yielding an annual prevalence of 0.20% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.19–0.21). The median age at first diagnosis was 0.63 years (IQR 0.33–1.98, range 0.11–18.00). Dogs aged under 1 year had 10.82 times the odds (95% CI 9.17–12.76) compared with dogs aged from 2 to under 4 years. Neutered animals had higher odds than entire animals within both sexes. Breeds with the highest odds of PNMG compared with crossbred dogs included Neapolitan Mastiff (odds ratio (OR) 34.26, 95%CI 15.92–73.75), English Bulldog (OR 24.08, 95% CI 20.62–28.13), Cane Corso (OR 14.66, 95% CI 8.18–26.28), Lhasa Apso (OR 12.37, 95% CI 10.26–14.92) and American Cocker Spaniel (OR 11.57, 95% CI 5.59–23.96). Purebred dogs had 1.43 times the odds (95% CI 1.26–1.63) of PNMG compared with crossbreed dogs. Breeds with brachycephalic skull conformation had 6.71 times the odds (95%CI 5.89–7.64) compared with breeds with mesocephalic skull conformation. Insured dogs had 1.89 times the odds (95% CI 1.65–2.16) compared with uninsured dogs. Conclusions This study reports the largest cohort of primary-care PNMG cases assembled to date. The results showing young age at diagnosis along with the breed, purebred and brachycephalic skull conformation predispositions suggest a hereditary involvement in PNMG development. These results may help to guide breeding strategies to reduce the prevalence of PNMG and improve welfare in predisposed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G. O’Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Yahui Yin
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Roser Tetas Pont
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Dave C. Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - David B. Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Minna Mustikka
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, United Kingdom
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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21
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Osathanon R, Lamb CR, Church DB. Associations between respiratory signs, thoracic CT findings and results of tracheobronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage in dogs. Vet Rec 2022; 191:e1385. [PMID: 35092696 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several diagnostic techniques are used in dogs with signs of respiratory disease. The aims of the present study are to estimate the relative sensitivities and associations between the results of diagnostic tests in dogs with respiratory conditions. METHOD A retrospective cross-sectional study of dogs referred for investigation of respiratory signs. Associations between clinical signs, thoracic CT findings, tracheobronchoscopic findings, cytology results and bacterial culture results were tested using binary logistic regression. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-three dogs were included. Abnormalities were detected by cytology, tracheobronchoscopy, CT and bacterial culture in 91%, 88%, 80% and 25% cases, respectively. There were associations between cough and bronchial lesions on thoracic CT (odds ratio [OR] 2.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-6.4, p = 0.037), and between cough and neutrophilic inflammation on cytology (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.3-15.8, p = 0.020). Bronchial foreign body at bronchoscopy was associated with pulmonary consolidation on CT (OR 8.0, 95% CI 1.6-41.7, p = 0.013) and with positive bacterial culture (OR 10.9, 95% CI 2.1-57.0, p = 0.005). In dogs with normal thoracic CT, abnormalities were detected by cytology, tracheobronchoscopy and bacterial culture in 89%, 77% and 23% cases, respectively. CONCLUSION Airway cytology and tracheobronchoscopy provided useful information for diagnosis in many dogs with respiratory signs that had a normal thoracic CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rungrote Osathanon
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK.,Department of Clinical Science and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakorn Pathom, Thailand
| | - Christopher R Lamb
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - David B Church
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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22
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O'Neill DG, Packer RMA, Francis P, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C. French Bulldogs differ to other dogs in the UK in propensity for many common disorders: a VetCompass study. Canine Med Genet 2021; 8:13. [PMID: 34911586 PMCID: PMC8675495 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-021-00112-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The French Bulldog is a highly popular dog breed but is linked with many serious health issues. A holistic view of breed health in French Bulldogs would assist efforts to appreciate the overall health strengths and weaknesses in the French Bulldog and to take appropriate steps to mitigate these. Based on random sampling of French Bulldogs and non-French Bulldogs under primary veterinary care during 2016 within the VetCompass Programme, a cohort study design was used to estimate the one-year (2016) period prevalence of the most commonly diagnosed disorders in each group. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling methods. Results The analysis included 2,781 French Bulldogs and 21,850 non-French Bulldogs. French Bulldogs were younger (1.51 years, IQR 0.86 – 2.77 vs. 4.48 years, IQR 1.94 – 8.14) (p < 0.001) and lighter (12.45 kg, IQR 11.00 – 14.03 versus 13.80 kg, IQR 8.10 – 25.12) (p < 0.001) than non-French Bulldogs. Of 43 common specific-level disorders across both groups, French Bulldogs had significantly increased adjusted odds of 20/43 (46.5 %) disorders and significantly reduced adjusted odds of 11/43 (25.6 %) disorders compared to non-French Bulldogs. Highly predisposed disorders in French Bulldogs included stenotic nares (OR 42.14; 95 % CI 18.50 to 95.99; p < 0.001), Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (OR 30.89; 95 % CI 20.91 to 45.64; p < 0.001), aural discharge (OR 14.40; 95 % CI 9.08 to 22.86; p < 0.001), skin fold dermatitis (OR 11.18; 95 % CI 7.19 to 17.40; p < 0.001) and dystocia (OR 9.13; 95 % CI 5.17 to 16.13; p < 0.001). At a grouped-level of diagnostic precision, French Bulldogs had increased adjusted odds of 12/32 (37.5 %) disorders and reduced adjusted odds of 6/32 (18.8 %) disorders compared to non-French Bulldogs. Conclusions These results identified ultra-predispositions with worryingly higher odds in French Bulldogs for several disorders, suggesting that the health of French Bulldogs has diverged substantially from, and may be lower than, the health of the wider non-French Bulldog population. Many of these predispositions are closely associated with the conformational extremes that define the French Bulldog breed. Shifting the typical conformation of the French Bulldog population towards a more moderate phenotype is proposed as a logical opportunity to reduce the serious health issues endemic in the French Bulldog breed. The French Bulldog is currently a hugely popular dog breed in the UK. However, the breed is linked with a range of serious health issues. Using veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass Programme at the Royal Veterinary College, this study aimed to compare the frequency of common disorders in French Bulldogs against that of all remaining dogs to identify health strengths and weaknesses in French Bulldogs. This overall view of breed health can assist owners, breeders and veterinarians to take appropriate actions to improve the health of French Bulldogs. From an overall population of 905,544 dogs, random samples of 2,781 French Bulldogs and 21,850 non-French Bulldogs were included in the analysis. French Bulldogs were younger (1.51 years versus 4.48 years) and lighter (12.45 kg versus 13.80 kg) than non-French Bulldogs. French Bulldogs had increased risk of 20/43 (46.5 %) specific disorders and decreased risk of 11/43 (25.6 %) specific disorders compared to non-French Bulldogs. The disorders with greatest relative risk in French Bulldogs compared to non-French Bulldogs were narrowed nostrils (x 42.14), Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (x 30.89), ear discharge (x 14.40), skin fold dermatitis (x 11.18) and difficulty giving birth [dystocia] (x 9.13). When the disorders were grouped into broad disease categories, French Bulldogs had increased risk of 12/32 (37.5 %) disorder groups and reduced risk of 6/32 (18.8 %) disorder groups compared to non-French Bulldogs. This study suggests that the health of French Bulldogs is very different, and largely much poorer, that the health of the wider non-French Bulldog population. Many of these differences are closely associated with the extreme body shape that defines the French Bulldog breed. Shifting the body shape of French Bulldogs to become more moderate, and hence less extreme, is proposed as a logical opportunity to reduce the current serious and common health issues in the French Bulldog breed.
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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.
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - Peter Francis
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, AL9 7TA, Hatfield, Herts, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, 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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Schofield I, Brodbelt DC, Niessen SJM, Church DB, Geddes RF, O'Neill DG. Frequency and risk factors for naturally occurring Cushing's syndrome in dogs attending UK primary-care practices. J Small Anim Pract 2021; 63:265-274. [PMID: 34881823 PMCID: PMC9299886 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To estimate the frequency and risk factors for Cushing's syndrome in dogs under UK primary veterinary care. Materials and Methods Dogs with Cushing's syndrome were identified by searching electronic patient records of primary‐care veterinary practices. Pre‐existing and incident cases of Cushing's syndrome during 2016 were included to estimate the 1‐year period prevalence. Incident cases were used to estimate the annual incidence and to identify demographic risk factors for the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome in dogs, through multivariable logistic regression. Results Analysis included 970 pre‐existing and 557 incident cases of Cushing's syndrome from a population of 905,544 dogs. The estimated 1‐year period prevalence for Cushing's syndrome in dogs under veterinary care was 0.17% (95% confidence interval 0.16 to 0.18) and incidence was 0.06% (95% confidence interval 0.05 to 0.07). In multivariable logistic regression modelling, the Bichon frise (odds ratio=6.17, 95% confidence interval 4.22 to 9.00), Border terrier (5.40, 95% confidence interval 3.66 to 7.97) and Miniature schnauzer (3.05, 95% confidence interval 1.67 to 5.57) had the highest odds of Cushing's syndrome. The Golden retriever (0.24, 95% confidence interval 0.06 to 0.98) and Labrador retriever (0.30, 95% confidence interval 0.17 to 0.54) were the most protected breeds. Increasing age, bodyweight greater than the breed‐sex mean and being insured also showed increased odds of Cushing's syndrome. Clinical Significance As Cushing's syndrome is predominately diagnosed and managed in primary‐care practice, this study provides valuable new information of its epidemiology in this setting. Demographics reported are supportive of previous work and additional novel associations identified, such as the Border terrier, could enhance the index of suspicion for veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Schofield
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - S J M Niessen
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK.,Veterinary Specialist Consultations, Hilversum, The Netherlands
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R F Geddes
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
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O'Neill DG, Volk AV, Soares T, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C. Frequency and predisposing factors for canine otitis externa in the UK - a primary veterinary care epidemiological view. Canine Med Genet 2021; 8:7. [PMID: 34488894 PMCID: PMC8422687 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-021-00106-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Otitis externa is a commonly diagnosed disorder in dogs and can carry a high welfare impact on affected animals. This study aimed to report the prevalence and explore the role of breed and aural conformation as predisposing factors for canine otitis externa in the UK. The study used a cohort design of dogs under UK primary veterinary care at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme during 2016. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS The study included a random sample of 22,333 dogs from an overall population of 905,554 dogs under veterinary care in 2016. The one-year period prevalence of otitis externa was 7.30% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.97 to 7.65). Breed and ear carriage were the highest ranked risk factors. Compared with crossbred dogs, sixteen breed types showed increased odds, including: Basset Hound (odds ratio [OR] 5.87), Chinese Shar Pei (OR 3.44), Labradoodle (OR 2.95), Beagle (OR 2.54) and Golden Retriever (OR 2.23). Four breeds showed protection (i.e. reduced odds) of otitis externa: Chihuahua (OR 0.20), Border Collie (OR 0.34), Yorkshire Terrier (OR 0.49) and Jack Russell Terrier (OR 0.52). Designer breed types overall had 1.63 times the odds (95% CI 1.31 to 2.03) compared with crossbred dogs. Compared with breeds with erect ear carriage, breeds with pendulous ear carriage had 1.76 times the odds (95% CI 1.48 to 2.10) and breeds with V-shaped drop ear carriage had 1.84 times the odds (95% CI 1.53 to 2.21) of otitis externa. CONCLUSIONS Breed itself and breed-associated ear carriage conformation are important predisposing factors for canine otitis externa. Greater awareness of these associations for both predisposed and protected breeds could support veterinary practitioners to promote cautious and low-harm approaches in their clinical advice on preventive care for otitis externa, especially in predisposed breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Andrea V Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buenteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Teresa Soares
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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25
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O'Neill DG, Mitchell CE, Humphrey J, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C. Epidemiology of periodontal disease in dogs in the UK primary-care veterinary setting. J Small Anim Pract 2021; 62:1051-1061. [PMID: 34374104 PMCID: PMC9291557 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Periodontal disease is a frequent diagnosis of dogs and can have severe negative impacts on welfare. It was hypothesised that breeds with skull shapes that differ most in conformation from the moderate mesocephalic skull shape have higher odds of periodontal disease. Materials and Methods The cohort study included a random sample of dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016 from the VetCompass Programme database. Risk factor analysis used random effects multivariable logistic regression modelling. Results The study included a random sample of 22,333 dogs. The 1‐year period prevalence for diagnosis with periodontal disease was 12.52% (95% CI: 12.09 to 12.97). Eighteen breeds showed increased odds compared with crossbred dogs. Breeds with the highest odds included Toy Poodle (odds ratio 3.97, 95% confidence intervals 2.21 to 7.13), King Charles Spaniel (odds ratio 2.63, 95% confidence interval 1.50 to 4.61), Greyhound (odds ratio 2.58, 95% confidence interval 1.75 to 3.80) and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (odds ratio 2.39, 95% confidence interval 1.85 to 3.09). Four breeds showed reduced odds compared with crossbreds. Brachycephalic breeds had 1.25 times the odds (95% confidence interval 1.11 to 1.42) of periodontal disease compared with mesocephalic breeds. Spaniel types had 1.63 times the odds (95% confidence interval 1.42 to 1.87) compared with non‐spaniel types. Increasing adult bodyweight was associated with progressively decreasing odds of periodontal disease. Clinical Significance The high prevalence identified in this study highlights periodontal disease as a priority welfare concern for predisposed breeds. Veterinarians can use this information to promote improved dental care in predisposed dogs, especially as these dogs age.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | | | - J Humphrey
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - C Pegram
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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26
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Pegram C, Raffan E, White E, Ashworth AH, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, O'Neill DG. Frequency, breed predisposition and demographic risk factors for overweight status in dogs in the UK. J Small Anim Pract 2021; 62:521-530. [PMID: 33754373 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for overweight status in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective study design was used to estimate the 1-year (2016) period prevalence of overweight status. The clinical records were randomly ordered and manually validated for dogs with overweight status during 2016. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression modelling were used to evaluate associations between risk factors (breed, brachycephalic status, adult bodyweight, bodyweight relative to breed-sex mean, age, sex-neuter and insurance) and overweight status. RESULTS There were 1580 of 22,333 dogs identified as overweight during 2016. The estimated 1-year period prevalence for overweight status recorded in dogs under veterinary care was 7.1% (95% confidence interval 6.7-7.4). After accounting for confounding factors, eight breeds showed increased odds of overweight status compared with crossbred dogs. The breeds with the highest odds included the Pug (OR 3.12, 95% confidence interval 2.31 to 4.20), Beagle (OR 2.67, 1.75 to 4.08), Golden Retriever (OR 2.58, 1.79 to 3.74) and English Springer Spaniel (OR 1.98, 1.31 to 2.98). Being neutered, middle-aged and insured were additionally associated with overweight status. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Targeted overweight prevention strategies should be prioritised for predisposed breeds, such as Pugs and Beagles. The findings additionally raise questions about further preventative efforts following neutering. The prevalence estimate suggests veterinary professionals are underreporting overweight status and therefore could be missing key welfare opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - E Raffan
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome Trust - MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - E White
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A H Ashworth
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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O'Neill DG, Brodbelt DC, Keddy A, Church DB, Sanchez RF. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK: an epidemiological study. J Small Anim Pract 2021; 62:636-645. [PMID: 34134171 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the frequency and breed-related risk factors for keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs under UK primary veterinary care. METHODS Analysis of cohort electronic patient record data through the VetCompass Programme. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS There were 1456 KCS cases overall from 363,898 dogs [prevalence 0.40%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38-0.42] and 430 incident cases during 2013 (1-year incidence risk 0.12%, 95% CI 0.11-0.13). Compared with crossbreds, breeds with the highest odds ratio (aOR) for KCS included American cocker spaniel (aOR 52.33: 95% CI 30.65-89.37), English bulldog (aOR 37.95: 95% CI 26.54-54.28), pug (aOR 22.09: 95% CI 15.15-32.2) and Lhasa apso (aOR 21.58: 95% CI 16.29-28.57). Conversely, Labrador retrievers (aOR 0.23: 95% CI 0.1-0.52) and border collie (aOR 0.30: 95% CI 0.11-0.82) had reduced odds. Brachycephalic dogs had 3.63 (95% CI 3.24-4.07) times odds compared to mesocephalics. Spaniels had 3.03 (95% CI 2.69-3.40) times odds compared to non-spaniels. Dogs weighing at or above the mean bodyweight for breed/sex had 1.25 (95% CI 1.12-1.39) times odds compared to body weights below. Advancing age was strongly associated with increased odds. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Quantitative tear tests are recommended within yearly health examinations for breeds with evidence of predisposition to KCS and might also be considered in the future within eye testing for breeding in predisposed breeds. Breed predisposition to KCS suggests that breeding strategies could aim to reduce extremes of facial conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A Keddy
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R F Sanchez
- Specialistische Dierenkliniek Utrecht Anicura, Middenwetering 19, Utrecht, 3543AR, The Netherlands
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Pegram C, Gray C, Packer RMA, Richards Y, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, O'Neill DG. Proportion and risk factors for death by euthanasia in dogs in the UK. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9145. [PMID: 33947877 PMCID: PMC8096845 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88342-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The loss of a pet can be particularly distressing for owners, whether the method of death is euthanasia or is unassisted. Using primary-care clinical data, this study aimed to report the demographic and clinical factors associated with euthanasia, relative to unassisted death, in dogs. Method of death (euthanasia or unassisted) and clinical cause of death were extracted from a random sample of 29,865 dogs within the VetCompass Programme from a sampling frame of 905,544 dogs under UK veterinary care in 2016. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was used to evaluate associations between risk factors and method of death. Of the confirmed deaths, 26,676 (89.3%) were euthanased and 2,487 (8.3%) died unassisted. After accounting for confounding factors, 6 grouped-level disorders had higher odds in euthanased dogs (than dogs that died unassisted), using neoplasia as the baseline. The disorders with greatest odds included: poor quality of life (OR 16.28), undesirable behaviour (OR 11.36) and spinal cord disorder (OR 6.00). Breed, larger bodyweight and increasing age were additional risk factors for euthanasia. The results highlight that a large majority of owners will face euthanasia decisions and these findings can support veterinarians and owners to better prepare for such an eventuality.
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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.
| | - Carol Gray
- School of Law and Social Justice, University of Liverpool, Chatham St., Liverpool, L69 7ZR, UK
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, Herts, UK
| | - Ysabelle Richards
- 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
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, 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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30
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O'Neill DG, Hendricks A, Phillips JA, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Loeffler A. Non-neoplastic anal sac disorders in UK dogs: Epidemiology and management aspects of a research-neglected syndrome. Vet Rec 2021; 189:e203. [PMID: 33645764 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-neoplastic anal sac disorders (ASD) are frequent presentations for dogs in primary-care practice but evidence-based information on disease occurrence and risk is sparse. This study estimates prevalence, breed associations and other risk factors as well as reporting on clinical management. METHODS A cohort study of dogs attending VetCompass practices between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2013. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression methods. RESULTS Of 104,212 dogs attending 110 UK practices, the 1-year period prevalence of ASD was 4.40% (95% CI: 4.22-4.57). Compared to crossbreds, six breeds showed increased odds of ASD (Cavalier King Charles spaniel, King Charles spaniel, Cockapoo, Shih-tzu, Bichon Frise and Cocker spaniel), and six breeds showed reduced odds (Labrador Retriever, Border collie, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Lurcher, German Shepherd Dog and Boxer). Brachycephalic types had 2.6 times the odds for ASD compared to dolichocephalic types. Medication prescribed for ASD included antimicrobials (n = 480, 20.24%) and analgesics (n = 284, 11.97%). Anal sacculectomy was performed in under 1% of cases. CONCLUSIONS High prevalence, strong breed predispositions and evidence of severity suggested from the antimicrobial and analgesic therapies combined with current substantial knowledge gaps identify ASD as a key research-neglected syndrome in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Anke Hendricks
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Jennifer A Phillips
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Anette Loeffler
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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31
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Fenn J, Kenny PJ, Scudder CJ, Hazuchova K, Gostelow R, Fowkes RC, Forcada Y, Church DB, Niessen SJM. Efficacy of hypophysectomy for the treatment of hypersomatotropism-induced diabetes mellitus in 68 cats. J Vet Intern Med 2021; 35:823-833. [PMID: 33624865 PMCID: PMC7995378 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hypersomatotropism (HST) is an increasingly recognized endocrinopathy in cats and is mostly described associated with diabetes mellitus (DM). Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transsphenoidal hypophysectomy in treating HST and DM in cats. Animals Sixty‐eight client‐owned cats with HST and DM treated by transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. Methods Retrospective cohort study. Medical records were reviewed for glycemic control and serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) concentrations. Postoperative complications, death within 4 weeks, and proportion achieving diabetic remission were recorded. Survival times and DM‐free intervals were calculated. Results Fifty‐eight cats (85.3%) were alive 4 weeks postoperatively with 10 (15%) postoperative deaths. Complications included hypoglycemia (n = 9), electrolyte imbalance (n = 9), and transient congestive heart failure (n = 5). Fifty‐five cats (95% of 58 surviving cats [81% of all cats undergoing surgery]) had improved control of diabetes. Diabetic remission occurred in 41 cats (71% of 58 surviving cats [60% of all cats]) with insulin administration discontinued after a median of 9 days (range, 2‐120). Postoperative 4‐week serum IGF‐1 concentration nadir was significantly lower in cats achieving diabetic remission (median 20 ng/mL [15‐708] than those that did not (324 ng/mL [15‐1955]; P = .03). All cats received long‐term levothyroxine and hydrocortisone PO, alongside desmopressin (conjunctival) in 38 of 53 cats (72%). Recurrence of DM occurred in 5 of 41 cats (12%) after a median of 248 days (range, 84‐1232). Median survival time of all cats was 853 days (range, 1‐1740). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is an effective treatment for cats with HST and DM, with a long‐term outcome that compares favorably to existing options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Fenn
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Patrick J Kenny
- Small Animal Specialist Hospital, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christopher J Scudder
- Southfields Veterinary Specialists, Laindon Essex, UK.,Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Katarina Hazuchova
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Ruth Gostelow
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Robert C Fowkes
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Yaiza Forcada
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK.,The VetCT Telemedicine Hospital, VetCT, St. John's Innovation Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - David B Church
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Stijn J M Niessen
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK.,The VetCT Telemedicine Hospital, VetCT, St. John's Innovation Centre, Cambridge, UK
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Schofield I, Woolhead V, Johnson A, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, O'Neill DG. Hypoadrenocorticism in dogs under UK primary veterinary care: frequency, clinical approaches and risk factors. J Small Anim Pract 2021; 62:343-350. [PMID: 33555046 PMCID: PMC8248152 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To estimate the frequency, clinical approaches and risk factors of hypoadrenocorticism in dogs under UK primary veterinary care. Materials and Methods Dogs diagnosed with hypoadrenocorticism were identified from the UK VetCompass™ programme by searching anonymised electronic patient records. Pre‐existing and newly diagnosed cases of disease during 2016 were included. Cases were further sub‐categorised as having a laboratory‐confirmed or presumed diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism based on the information recorded in the electronic patient records. Descriptive data were manually extracted. Multivariable logistic regression methods were used to identify demographic risk factors. Results There were 177 hypoadrenocorticism cases identified from 905,543 dogs in 2016; 72 laboratory‐confirmed and 105 presumed. The 1‐year period prevalence for hypoadrenocorticism in all dogs was 0.06% (95% confidence interval: 0.05‐0.07%). The most common presenting clinical signs in laboratory‐confirmed dogs were lethargy (51/66, 77.3%), anorexia (48/66, 66.7%) and vomiting (48/66, 66.7%). Hyperkalaemia was reported in 47 of 53 (88.7%), hyponatraemia in 46 of 53 (86.8%). Median sodium: potassium ratio was 19.00 (interquartile range: 16.20‐20.60). Breed, age, neuter status and insurance status were associated with a laboratory‐confirmed diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism. No sex association with hypoadrenocorticism was observed in the multivariable model. The standard poodle had 51.38 times the odds (95% CI: 14.49‐182.18) of hypoadrenocorticism compared with crossbreeds. The labradoodle and West Highland white terrier also had increased odds. Clinical Significance This is the first epidemiological study to report on hypoadrenocorticism in dogs within the UK primary‐care population. These results provide benchmark data of current veterinary activity relating to hypoadrenocorticism in primary‐care practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Schofield
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - V Woolhead
- Eastcott Referrals, Edison Park, Dorcan Way, Swindon, SN3 3RB, UK
| | - A Johnson
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Steele MM, Borgeat K, Payne JR, Coss P, Navarro-Cubas X, Church DB, Niessen SJ, Connolly DJ. Increased insulin-like growth factor 1 concentrations in a retrospective population of non-diabetic cats diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. J Feline Med Surg 2021; 23:952-958. [PMID: 33541239 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20987995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to document whether a proportion of non-diabetic cats with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) previously diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) have elevated circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations. METHODS A retrospective analysis of residual blood samples obtained at the time of echocardiographic diagnosis of HCM from a population of 60 non-diabetic cats were analysed for circulating IGF-1 concentrations using a validated radioimmunoassay and compared with a control group of 16 apparently healthy cats without LVH. Clinical and echocardiographic data for cats with an IGF-1 level >1000 ng/ml were compared with those with an IGF-1 level <800 ng/ml. RESULTS In total, 6.7% (95% confidence interval 1.8-16.2%) of cats with HCM had an IGF-1 level >1000 ng/ml. The prevalence of an IGF-1 level >1000 ng/ml in the control group was zero. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE A small proportion of non-diabetic cats previously diagnosed with HCM had an IGF-1 concentration at a level that has been associated with feline hypersomatotropism (fHS) in the diabetic cat population. Further prospective research is required to confirm or refute the presence of fHS in non-diabetic cats with LVH and increased IGF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Me Steele
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | | | | | - Peter Coss
- Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | | | - David J Connolly
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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Mirczuk SM, Scudder CJ, Read JE, Crossley VJ, Regan JT, Richardson KM, Simbi B, McArdle CA, Church DB, Fenn J, Kenny PJ, Volk HA, Wheeler-Jones CP, Korbonits M, Niessen SJ, McGonnell IM, Fowkes RC. Natriuretic Peptide Expression and Function in GH3 Somatolactotropes and Feline Somatotrope Pituitary Tumours. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031076. [PMID: 33499110 PMCID: PMC7865297 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients harbouring mutations in genes encoding C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP; NPPC) or its receptor guanylyl cyclase B (GC-B, NPR2) suffer from severe growth phenotypes; loss-of-function mutations cause achondroplasia, whereas gain-of-function mutations cause skeletal overgrowth. Although most of the effects of CNP/GC-B on growth are mediated directly on bone, evidence suggests the natriuretic peptides may also affect anterior pituitary control of growth. Our previous studies described the expression of NPPC and NPR2 in a range of human pituitary tumours, normal human pituitary, and normal fetal human pituitary. However, the natriuretic peptide system in somatotropes has not been extensively explored. Here, we examine the expression and function of the CNP/GC-B system in rat GH3 somatolactotrope cell line and pituitary tumours from a cohort of feline hypersomatotropism (HST; acromegaly) patients. Using multiplex RT-qPCR, all three natriuretic peptides and their receptors were detected in GH3 cells. The expression of Nppc was significantly enhanced following treatment with either 100 nM TRH or 10 µM forskolin, yet only Npr1 expression was sensitive to forskolin stimulation; the effects of forskolin and TRH on Nppc expression were PKA- and MAPK-dependent, respectively. CNP stimulation of GH3 somatolactotropes significantly inhibited Esr1, Insr and Lepr expression, but dramatically enhanced cFos expression at the same time point. Oestrogen treatment significantly enhanced expression of Nppa, Nppc, Npr1, and Npr2 in GH3 somatolactotropes, but inhibited CNP-stimulated cGMP accumulation. Finally, transcripts for all three natriuretic peptides and receptors were expressed in feline pituitary tumours from patients with HST. NPPC expression was negatively correlated with pituitary tumour volume and SSTR5 expression, but positively correlated with D2R and GHR expression. Collectively, these data provide mechanisms that control expression and function of CNP in somatolactotrope cells, and identify putative transcriptional targets for CNP action in somatotropes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M. Mirczuk
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
| | - Christopher J. Scudder
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
- Clinical Sciences & Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (D.B.C.); (J.F.); (P.J.K.); (H.A.V.); (S.J.N.)
| | - Jordan E. Read
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
| | - Victoria J. Crossley
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
| | - Jacob T. Regan
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
| | - Karen M. Richardson
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
| | - Bigboy Simbi
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
| | - Craig A. McArdle
- Department of Translational Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Whitson Street, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK;
| | - David B. Church
- Clinical Sciences & Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (D.B.C.); (J.F.); (P.J.K.); (H.A.V.); (S.J.N.)
| | - Joseph Fenn
- Clinical Sciences & Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (D.B.C.); (J.F.); (P.J.K.); (H.A.V.); (S.J.N.)
| | - Patrick J. Kenny
- Clinical Sciences & Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (D.B.C.); (J.F.); (P.J.K.); (H.A.V.); (S.J.N.)
- Small Animal Specialist Hospital, 1 Richardson Place, North Ryde, 2113 NSW, Australia
| | - Holger A. Volk
- Clinical Sciences & Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (D.B.C.); (J.F.); (P.J.K.); (H.A.V.); (S.J.N.)
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Caroline P. Wheeler-Jones
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
| | - Márta Korbonits
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Stijn J. Niessen
- Clinical Sciences & Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (D.B.C.); (J.F.); (P.J.K.); (H.A.V.); (S.J.N.)
| | - Imelda M. McGonnell
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
| | - Robert C. Fowkes
- Endocrine Signalling Group, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (S.M.M.); (C.J.S.); (J.E.R.); (V.J.C.); (J.T.R.); (K.M.R.)
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK; (B.S.); (C.P.W.-J.); (I.M.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +11-44-207-468-1215
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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: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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O'Neill DG, Phillipps SA, Egan JR, Brodbelt D, Church DB, Volk HA. Epidemiology of recurrent seizure disorders and epilepsy in cats under primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:2582-2594. [PMID: 32974979 PMCID: PMC7694832 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little epidemiological evaluation of recurrent seizure disorders in cats currently exists in veterinary literature. Objectives To report the prevalence and risk factors for recurrent seizure disorders (RSD) and epilepsy in cats presented to primary care veterinary practices in the United Kingdom (UK). Animals A total of 285 547 cats under veterinary care during 2013 presenting to 282 primary care clinics in the UK. Methods Cohort study using multivariable logistic regression modeling for risk factor analysis. Results There were 458 confirmed RSD cases, giving a 1‐year period prevalence of 0.16% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.15‐0.18). A subset of 114 (24.89%) cases was recorded as having epilepsy, giving a 1‐year period prevalence of 0.04% (95% CI, 0.03‐0.5). Increasing age was significantly associated with increasing odds of RSD. Breed, sex, neuter status, and body weight were not associated with RSD. Epilepsy was most frequently diagnosed in adult to middle‐aged cats. Cats aged 3.0 to <6.0 years had 3.32 times higher odds of epilepsy diagnosis compared to cats <3.0 years of age. Insured cats were more likely to be diagnosed with epilepsy compared to noninsured cats. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Although less common than in dogs, RSD and epilepsy still comprise an important disorder group in the UK cat population. Aging is a significant risk factor for these disorders in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Gerard O'Neill
- Royal Veterinary College-Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie A Phillipps
- University of Liverpool Institute of Veterinary Science Ringgold Standard Institution-Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Jordon R Egan
- Royal Veterinary College-Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - David Brodbelt
- Royal Veterinary College-Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - David B Church
- Royal Veterinary College-Clinical Sciences and Services, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Holger A Volk
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Hannover, Germany
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Abstract
Background The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a popular dog breed in the UK but there is limited reliable evidence on disorder predispositions and protections within the breed. Using anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass™ Programme, this study aimed to identify common disorders with predisposition and protection in the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The study hypothesised that Staffordshire Bull Terriers would have higher odds of aggression compared with non-Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Results The clinical records of a random sample of dogs of all types were reviewed to extract the most definitive diagnoses for all disorders existing during 2016. A combined list from the 30 most common disorders in Staffordshire Bull Terriers and the 30 most common disorders in non-Staffordshire Bull Terriers was generated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to report the odds of each of these disorders in 1304 (5.8%) Staffordshire Bull Terriers compared with 21,029 (94.2%) non-Staffordshire Bull Terriers. After accounting for confounding, Staffordshire Bull Terriers had significantly increased odds of 4/36 (11.1%) disorders compared to non-Staffordshire Bull Terriers with highest odds for seizure disorder (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.24 to 3.40; p = 0.005). Conversely, Staffordshire Bull Terriers had reduced odds of 5/36 (13.9%) disorders, with lowest odds for patellar luxation (OR 0.15; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.61; p = 0.008). There was no significant difference in the odds of aggression between Staffordshire Bull Terriers compared with non-Staffordshire Bull Terriers (OR 1.09; 95% CI 0.75 to 1.58; p = 0.644). Conclusions This study provides a reliable evidence base of breed-specific disorder predispositions and protections that can be used by breeders to optimise breeding decisions. The findings can assist prospective owners of Staffordshire Bull Terriers to make informed decisions when acquiring a dog. From the relative number of predispositions to protections identified, there is no evidence that Staffordshire Bull Terriers have higher overall health problems than non-Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
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Schofield I, Brodbelt DC, Niessen SJM, Church DB, Geddes RF, Kennedy N, O'Neill DG. Development and internal validation of a prediction tool to aid the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome in dogs attending primary-care practice. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:2306-2318. [PMID: 32935905 PMCID: PMC7694798 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel methods to aid identification of dogs with spontaneous Cushing's syndrome are warranted to optimize case selection for diagnostics, avoid unnecessary testing, and ultimately aid decision-making for veterinarians. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES To develop and internally validate a prediction tool for dogs receiving a diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome using primary-care electronic health records. ANIMALS Three hundred and ninety-eight dogs diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome and 541 noncase dogs, tested for but not diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome, from a cohort of 905 544 dogs attending VetCompass participating practices. METHODS A cross-sectional study design was performed. A prediction model was developed using multivariable binary logistic regression taking the demography, presenting clinical signs and some routine laboratory results into consideration. Predictive performance of each model was assessed and internally validated through bootstrap resampling. A novel clinical prediction tool was developed from the final model. RESULTS The final model included predictor variables sex, age, breed, polydipsia, vomiting, potbelly/hepatomegaly, alopecia, pruritus, alkaline phosphatase, and urine specific gravity. The model demonstrated good discrimination (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC] = 0.78 [95% CI = 0.75-0.81]; optimism-adjusted AUROC = 0.76) and calibration (C-slope = 0.86). A tool was developed from the model which calculates the predicted likelihood of a dog having Cushing's syndrome from 0% (score = -13) to 96% (score = 10). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE A tool to predict a diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome at the point of first suspicion in dogs was developed, with good predictive performance. This tool can be used in practice to support decision-making and increase confidence in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Schofield
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - David C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Stijn J M Niessen
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK.,The VetCT Telemedicine Hospital, St John's Innovation Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Rebecca F Geddes
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Noel Kennedy
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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Kathrani A, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C, O'Neill DG. The use of hydrolysed diets for vomiting and/or diarrhoea in cats in primary veterinary practice. J Small Anim Pract 2020; 61:723-731. [PMID: 32895973 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe responses of cats prescribed a hydrolysed diet with or without concurrent medication for chronic vomiting and/or diarrhoea of undetermined aetiology. MATERIALS AND METHODS Anonymised records of 512,213 cats under UK veterinary care in 2016 from the VetCompass database were searched using relevant terms for hydrolysed diets. The records of 5000 (90%) of 5569 cats with evidence of receiving a hydrolysed diet were randomly reviewed for gastrointestinal indication, prior and concurrent medication and response after hydrolysed dietary intervention. A poor response was defined as evidence of receiving antibiotic or glucocorticoid treatment for vomiting/diarrhoea at visits after the onset of the diet or death from gastrointestinal signs for at least 6 months follow-up. RESULTS Of 977 cats prescribed a hydrolysed diet for chronic vomiting/diarrhoea, 697 (71%) were first prescribed the diet without concurrent antibiotics or glucocorticoids while 280 (29%) first received the diet with these medications. Thirty-four per cent of cats in the former group and 61% in the latter had a poor response. Cats older than 6 years and cats prescribed antibiotic and/or glucocorticoid for vomiting/diarrhoea before and concurrently with the diet had higher odds of poor response. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Although variations in our observations may reflect severity of signs or prescribing habits of primary-care veterinary surgeons, our study suggests there is merit in trialling a hydrolysed diet first as a sole therapy in cats with chronic vomiting/diarrhoea when diagnostic investigations do not reveal a cause, before resorting to antibiotic and/or glucocorticoid therapy for cases that respond poorly.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kathrani
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - C Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
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Radulescu SM, Humm K, Eramanis LM, Volk HA, Church DB, Brodbelt D, O'Neill DG. Vestibular disease in dogs under UK primary veterinary care: Epidemiology and clinical management. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:1993-2004. [PMID: 32776616 PMCID: PMC7517853 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vestibular disease (VD), central or peripheral, can be a dramatic primary-care presentation. Current literature describes mostly dogs examined in referral centers. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES Describe the prevalence, presentation, clinical management, and outcomes of VD in dogs under primary veterinary care at UK practices participating in VetCompass. ANIMALS Seven hundred and fifty-nine vestibular cases identified out of 905 544 study dogs. METHODS Retrospective cohort study. Potential VD cases clinically examined during 2016 were verified by reviewing clinical records for signalment, presenting clinical signs, treatments, and outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with VD. RESULTS The overall prevalence of VD was 8 per 10 000 dogs (95% CI = 7-9). Median age at first diagnosis was 12.68 years (interquartile range [IQR], 11.28-14.64). Compared with crossbreeds, breeds with the highest odds of VD diagnosis included French Bulldogs (odds ratio [OR] = 9.25, 95% CI = 4.81-17.76, P < .001), Bulldogs (OR = 6.53, 95% CI = 2.66-16.15, P < .001), King Charles Spaniels (OR = 4.96, 95% CI = 2.52-9.78, P < .001), Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (OR = 3.56, 95% CI = 2.50-5.06, P < .001), and Springer Spaniels (OR = 3.37, 95% CI = 2.52-4.52, P < .001). The most common presenting signs were head tilt (69.8%), nystagmus (68.1%), and ataxia (64.5%). The most frequently used treatments were antiemetics (43.2%), systemic glucocorticoids (33.1%), antimicrobials (25%), and propentofylline (23.25%). There were 3.6% of cases referred. Improvement was recorded in 41.8% cases after a median of 4 days (IQR, 2-10.25). CONCLUSIONS Our study identifies strong breed predispositions for VD. The low referral rates suggest that primary-care data sources offer more generalizable information for benchmarking to help clinicians review their own clinical activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Humm
- Department of Clinical Science and ServicesThe Royal Veterinary CollegeNorth MymmsHertsUK
| | - Louis Mark Eramanis
- Department of Clinical Science and ServicesThe Royal Veterinary CollegeNorth MymmsHertsUK
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneWerribeeVictoriaAustralia
| | - Holger A. Volk
- Department of Clinical Science and ServicesThe Royal Veterinary CollegeNorth MymmsHertsUK
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHannoverGermany
| | - David B. Church
- Department of Clinical Science and ServicesThe Royal Veterinary CollegeNorth MymmsHertsUK
| | - David Brodbelt
- Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesThe Royal Veterinary CollegeNorth MymmsHertsUnited Kingdom
| | - Dan Gerard O'Neill
- Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesThe Royal Veterinary CollegeNorth MymmsHertsUnited Kingdom
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Elkholly DA, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Pelligand L, Mwacalimba K, Wright AK, O'Neill DG. Side Effects to Systemic Glucocorticoid Therapy in Dogs Under Primary Veterinary Care in the UK. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:515. [PMID: 32923470 PMCID: PMC7457010 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Systemic glucocorticoids are widely used in companion animals. This study aimed to estimate the frequency, describe the characteristics and to evaluate risk factors for common side effects to systemic glucocorticoid therapy in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Methods: A cohort study using VetCompass™ data from 455,557 dogs under primary veterinary care during 2013 estimated the frequency of side effects to systemic glucocorticoid therapy occurring within 31 days of therapy. Risk factors for the most common side effects, polyuria and polydipsia (PUPD), were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression modeling (P < 0.05). Results: During 2013, 28,472 study dogs received systemic glucocorticoids (6.2%, 95% CI 6.2–6.3). Review of the records of 3,000 randomly selected treated dogs identified 148 (4.9%, 95% CI 4.2–5.7%) dogs with at least one side effect recorded within 31 days of therapy. The most frequent side effects were polydipsia (39.2% of total presenting signs), polyuria (28.4%), vomiting (16.2%) and diarrhea (14.9%), dogs receiving only oral systemic glucocorticoids (odds ratio, OR: 3.72) and dogs receiving both oral and injectable systemic glucocorticoid (OR: 10.71) had increased odds of PUPD compared with dogs receiving only injectable systemic glucocorticoid. Focusing on the active substance used, treatment with prednisolone tablets only (OR: 3.53) and treatment with both prednisolone tablets and injectable dexamethasone sodium phosphate (OR: 7.62) showed increased odds of PUPD compared to treatment with injectable dexamethasone sodium phosphate only. Brief: These results can assist veterinarians to optimize therapeutic selection for reduced side effect, to inform owners on common side effects, and help protect the welfare of pets and their owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa A Elkholly
- Royal Veterinary College, Pathobiology and Population Health, London University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Royal Veterinary College, Pathobiology and Population Health, London University, London, United Kingdom
| | - David B Church
- Royal Veterinary College, Clinical Science and Services, London University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ludo Pelligand
- Royal Veterinary College, Clinical Science and Services, London University, London, United Kingdom.,Royal Veterinary College, Comparative Biomedical Science, London University, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Dan G O'Neill
- Royal Veterinary College, Pathobiology and Population Health, London University, London, United Kingdom
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Scudder CJ, Hazuchova K, Gostelow R, Church DB, Forcada Y, Fowkes RC, Niessen SJ. Pilot study assessing the use of cabergoline for the treatment of cats with hypersomatotropism and diabetes mellitus. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 23:131-137. [PMID: 32684121 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20933213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An affordable and effective treatment is needed to manage feline hypersomatotropism. The aim of this study was to assess whether treatment with oral cabergoline for 90 days in cats with hypersomatotropism and diabetes mellitus improved diabetic and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) control. METHODS This was a prospective cohort non-blinded pilot study enrolling client-owned cats with spontaneously occurring diabetes mellitus and hypersomatotropism. Cats received oral cabergoline (5-10 µg/kg q24h) for 90 consecutive days. Serum IGF-1 and fructosamine concentrations were measured on days 1, 30 and 90. Quality of life was determined using the DIAQoL-pet questionnaire on days 1 and 90. RESULTS Nine cats were enrolled and eight completed the study. There was no significant change in the following: IGF-1 (day 1 median 2001 ng/ml [range 890-2001 ng/ml]; day 30 median 2001 ng/ml [range 929-2001 ng/ml]; day 90 median 1828 ng/ml [range 1035-2001 ng/ml]; χ2(2) = 0.667, P = 0.805); fructosamine (day 1 median 499 µmol/l [range 330-887 µmol/l], day 30 median 551 µmol/l [range 288-722 µmol/l], day 90 median 503 [range 315-851 µmol/l]; χ2(2) = 0.581, P = 0.764); or DIAQoL-pet score (median on day 1 -2.79 [range -4.62 to -0.28], median on day 90 -3.24 [range -4.41 to -0.28]; P = 0.715). There was a significant change of insulin dose (χ2(2) = 8.667, P = 0.008) with cats receiving higher insulin doses at day 90 compared with day 1 (median on day 1 was 0.98 [range 0.63-1.49] and median on day 90 was 1.56 [range 0.49-2.55] units/kg q12h; P = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Cabergoline did not improve diabetic control or normalise insulin-like growth factor concentration, or improve patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Scudder
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK.,Small Animal Internal Medicine Department, Southfields Veterinary Specialists, Basildon, UK
| | - Katarina Hazuchova
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Ruth Gostelow
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Yaiza Forcada
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK.,VetCT Telemedicine Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Robert C Fowkes
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Stijn Jm Niessen
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK.,VetCT Telemedicine Hospital, Cambridge, UK.,Diabetes Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, UK
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Pegram CL, Rutherford L, Corah C, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, O'Neill DG. Clinical management of lipomas in dogs under primary care in the UK. Vet Rec 2020; 187:e83. [PMID: 32661183 PMCID: PMC7799419 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Lipomas are relatively common and biologically benign masses of mesenchymal origin consisting of adipocytes. This study reports benchmark data on the clinical management and outcomes of lipomas in dogs under UK primary veterinary care. The study used a cross-sectional analysis of cohort clinical data from dogs that were under veterinary care at practices participating within VetCompass from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013. Descriptive and analytic statistics characterised the clinical management and outcomes following presumptive lipoma diagnosis. The study included 2765 lipoma cases from 384 284 dogs under UK veterinary care during 2013. Diagnostics included fine needle aspirate in 1119 (40.5 per cent) cases, biopsy in 215 (7.8 per cent) cases and diagnostic imaging in 11 (0.4 per cent) cases. Overall, 525 (19.0 per cent) cases were managed surgically. Of the surgical cases, 307 (58.5 per cent) solely had mass removal whilst 218 (41.5 per cent) included another procedure during the same surgical episode. A surgical drain was placed during surgery in 90 (17.1 per cent) cases. Wound breakdown was reported in 14 (2.7 per cent) surgical procedures. Wound infection followed surgery in 11 (2.1 per cent) dogs. The findings provide veterinarians with an evidence base that benchmarks how lipoma cases are currently managed in the UK, but these results do not necessarily reflect optimal management or best practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Leonie Pegram
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Lynda Rutherford
- Clinical Services Division, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Caroline Corah
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Services Division, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - David C Brodbelt
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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Heeley AM, O’Neill DG, Davison LJ, Church DB, Corless EK, Brodbelt DC. Diabetes mellitus in dogs attending UK primary-care practices: frequency, risk factors and survival. Canine Med Genet 2020. [PMCID: PMC7288514 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-020-00087-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important endocrine disorder of dogs. The objectives of this study were to estimate prevalence and incidence of DM in dogs, and to explore risk factors for DM and the survival of DM cases in primary-care clinics in the UK. Results A case-control study nested in the cohort of dogs (n = 480,469) aged ≥3 years presenting at 430 VetCompass clinics was used to identify risk factors for DM, using multivariable logistic regression. Overall 409 new and 863 pre-existing DM cases (total 1272) were identified in 2016, giving an apparent annual prevalence of 0.26% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25–0.28%), and an annual incidence risk of 0.09% (95%CI: 0.08–0.09%) in dogs aged ≥3 years. Factors associated with increased odds for DM diagnosis were all age categories > 8 years, female entire dogs (odds ratio (OR): 3.03, 95% CI 1.69–5.44, p < 0.001) and male neutered dogs (OR: 1.99, 95% CI 1.18–3.34, p = 0.010) compared to male entire dogs, Border Terriers (OR: 3.37, 95% CI 1.04–10.98, p = 0.043) and West Highland White Terriers (WHWT) (OR: 2.88, 95% CI 1.49–5.56, p = 0.002) compared to crossbreeds. Dogs that had received previous glucocorticoid treatment (OR: 2.19, 95% CI 1.02–4.70, p = 0.044) and those with concurrent conditions (documented obese, pancreatitis, hyperadrenocorticism) also had increased odds for DM diagnosis. Cox regression modelling was used to evaluate factors associated with survival in the 409 incident DM cases in 2016. Increased hazard of death following diagnosis of DM was shown in dogs that were ≥ 10 years age, Cocker Spaniels (HR: 2.06, 95% CI 1.06–4.01, p = 0.034) compared to crossbreeds, had a blood glucose (BG) level at diagnosis > 40 mmol/L (HR: 2.73, 95% CI 1.35–5.55, p = 0.005) compared to < 20 mmol/L at diagnosis, or had received previous glucocorticoid treatment (HR: 1.86, 95% CI 1.21–2.86, p = 0.005). Dogs at reduced hazard of death included neutered dogs (HR: 0.58, 95% CI 0.42–0.79, p = 0.001), Border Collies (HR: 0.39, 95% CI 0.17–0.87, p = 0.022) and those starting insulin treatment (HR: 0.08 95% CI 0.05–0.12, p < 0.001). Conclusions Certain breeds and concurrent health conditions are associated with an increased risk of DM. In addition to certain signalment factors, a high BG level at diagnosis and prior glucocorticoid treatment were adversely associated with survival of dogs with DM.
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O'Neill DG, Brodbelt DC, Hodge R, Church DB, Meeson RL. Epidemiology and clinical management of elbow joint disease in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Med Genet 2020; 7:1. [PMID: 32835227 PMCID: PMC7371807 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-020-0080-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Conditions affecting the elbow joint are a common cause of lameness in dogs. Primary-care veterinary clinical data are now recognised as a valuable research resource. Using data from the VetCompass Programme, this study aimed to report the frequency and risk factors for elbow joint disease in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK and describe clinical management. Results From 455,069 dogs under veterinary care, the one-year period prevalence for elbow joint disease diagnosis was 0.56% (95% CI: 0.53-0.60). Of 616 incident cases, the most common specific variants of elbow joint disease were osteoarthritis (n = 468, 75.97%), elbow dysplasia (190, 30.84%) and traumatic (41, 6.66%). The most common signs described by the owners were lameness (n = 466, 75.65%), difficulty exercising (123, 19.97%) and pain (86, 13.96%). The most common findings recorded on veterinary examination were pain (n = 283, 45.94%), lameness (278, 45.13%) and reduced range of movement (243, 39.45%). Common medications used included non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (n = 544, 88.31%), tramadol (121, 19.64%) and disease modifying agents (118, 19.16%). Of 109 deaths involving euthanasia with information available from the 616 incident cases, elbow joint disease contributed to the decision to euthanase in 45 (41.28%) dogs.Five breeds showed increased odds of elbow joint disease compared with crossbred dogs: Rottweiler (OR: 6.16, 95% CI 3.89-9.75), Labrador Retriever (OR: 5.94, 95% CI 4.65-7.60), German Shepherd Dog (OR: 4.13, 95% CI 2.88-5.93), Golden Retriever (OR: 3.11, 95% CI 1.93-5.00) and English Springer Spaniel (OR: 2.00, 95% CI 1.26-3.18). Additional risk factors included having an adult bodyweight that was equal or higher than their breed/sex mean, advancing age, being male, being neutered, being insured and larger bodyweight. Conclusions Elbow joint disease is a relatively common diagnosis in dogs and has a high welfare impact as evidenced by the high proportion of cases recorded with pain, lameness and analgesic therapy. There are strong breed predispositions, in particular for large breed dogs. These findings present a clear case for improved breeding programmes to reduce the burden of elbow joint disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Production and Population Health, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Production and Population Health, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Rebecca Hodge
- Production and Population Health, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Richard L Meeson
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
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O'Neill DG, Packer RMA, Lobb M, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C. Demography and commonly recorded clinical conditions of Chihuahuas under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2016. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:42. [PMID: 32046714 PMCID: PMC7014602 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-2258-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Chihuahua, the world's smallest dog breed, is a popular breed in the UK today. The VetCompass™ Programme collates de-identified clinical records from primary-care veterinary practices in the UK for epidemiological research. This study aimed to characterise the demography, age at death and common disorders of Chihuahuas under primary veterinary care during 2016 in the UK. RESULTS Chihuahuas comprised 11,647/336,865 (3.46%) dogs under veterinary care during 2016. The annual proportional birth rate for Chihuahuas rose from 1.01% in 2005 to 5.35% in 2016. Median adult bodyweight was 3.4 kg (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.7-4.3, range 0.8-9.8).). Median age was 2.8 years (interquartile range [IQR] 1.6-4.9). Median age at death from this young expanding population was 8.2 years (IQR 3.5-12.1). Females (10.2 years) outlived males (6.9 years) (Mann-Whitney U test: P = 0.005). The most common grouped causes of death were heart disease (18.8%, 95% CI: 10.9-29.0), lower respiratory tract disorder (16.3%, 95% CI: 8.9-26.2) and traumatic injury (13.8%, 95% CI: 7.1-23.3). The most common specific disorders were periodontal disease (13.5%, 95% CI: 12.6-14.4), obesity (5.9%, 95% CI: 5.3-6.5), retained deciduous dentition (5.7%, 95% CI: 5.1-6.4), anal sac impaction (4.9%, 95% CI: 4.4-5.5) and aggression (4.2%, 95% CI: 3.7-4.8). Among the 28 most common fine-level disorders, males had statistically (P < 0.005) higher probability than females for 5 disorders (aggression, heart murmur, otitis externa, conjunctivitis and upper respiratory tract infection). There were no disorders with statistically (P < 0.005) higher prevalence in females. CONCLUSIONS This study documented rising ownership and a currently youthful population of Chihuahuas in the UK. These results suggest that the Chihuahua is currently undergoing a popularity boom but veterinarians need to be watchful for welfare issues related to impulse purchase of Chihuahua puppies by owners with limited experience of dog care. Periodontal disease, obesity, retained deciduous dentition, anal sac impaction and aggression were identified as common health issues within the breed. The unique veterinary care needs of this popular miniature breed suggest that veterinarians should consider the value of advanced training in anesthesia and dentistry in small-sized dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Meghan Lobb
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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O'Neill DG, Ballantyne ZF, Hendricks A, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C. Correction to: West Highland White Terriers under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2016: demography, mortality and disorders. Canine Genet Epidemiol 2019; 6:8. [PMID: 31673379 PMCID: PMC6816200 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-019-0077-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- 1Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Zoie F Ballantyne
- 1Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Anke Hendricks
- 2Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - David B Church
- 2Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- 1Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Camilla Pegram
- 1Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
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Schofield I, O'Neill DG, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Geddes RF, Niessen SJM. Development and evaluation of a health-related quality-of-life tool for dogs with Cushing's syndrome. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:2595-2604. [PMID: 31660657 PMCID: PMC6872869 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinical signs and consequences of Cushing's syndrome are likely to impact upon a dog's life. Quantification of this impact on a dog's health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) could contribute to optimized disease management. Hypothesis/objectives To develop a novel HRQoL tool to aid assessment of dogs with Cushing's syndrome and to evaluate factors that impact upon dogs living with this disease. Animals Two hundred and ten dogs with Cushing's syndrome and 617 dogs without Cushing's syndrome. Methods Cross‐sectional study design. Dog owners answered questions relating to the HRQoL of their dogs which were refined to develop the final tool. The tool was analyzed for reliability, validity, and interpretability, including Cronbach's alpha and principal components analysis. Factors impacting upon the HRQoL of dogs with Cushing's syndrome were assessed using appropriate nonparametric tests. Results The tool was refined from 32 questions to 19 and showed good internal consistency (α = .83). Owners rated questions related to “owner impact” as more important and those related to demeanor as less important. There was a positive correlation between the tool score of dogs with Cushing's syndrome and owner's assessment of their dog's quality‐of‐life (r = .41, P < .001). Dogs currently on treatment with trilostane had a statistically better HRQoL (.33, interquartile range [IQR] .23–.44) than those not receiving trilostane (.36, IQR .33–.54, P = .04). Conclusions and Clinical Importance The developed tool quantifies the HRQoL of dogs with Cushing's syndrome and could assist clinicians in the clinical assessment of dogs with Cushing's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Schofield
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca F Geddes
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Stijn J M Niessen
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom.,The VetCT Telemedicine Hospital, St John's Innovation Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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O'Neill DG, Craven HC, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Hedley J. Morbidity and mortality of domestic rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus) under primary veterinary care in England. Vet Rec 2019; 186:451. [PMID: 31594841 PMCID: PMC7279133 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Background The domestic rabbit is a common pet species, but limited research exists on the health of pet rabbits. This study aimed to characterise common disorders of pet rabbits and reasons for mortality as recorded by veterinary practices in England. Methods This cross-sectional study covered anonymised clinical records of 6349 rabbits attending 107 primary veterinary care clinics. Results The median age was 3.2 years (interquartile range (IQR) 1.6–5.1), and the median adult bodyweight was 2.1 kg (IQR 1.7–2.6). The most common breed types were domestic (n=2022, 31.9 per cent), lop (1675, 26.4 per cent) and Netherland dwarf (672, 10.6 per cent). For those rabbits that died during the study period, the median age at death was 4.3 years (IQR 2.1–7.0). The most common causes of death were recorded as myiasis (prevalence 10.9 per cent, 95 per cent confidence interval (CI): 7.4 to 15.2), anorexia (4.9 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 4.0 to 10.4), recumbency/collapse (4.9 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 4.0 to 10.4) and ileus (4.3 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 3.5 to 9.5). The most prevalent specific disorders recorded were overgrown claw/nails (16.0 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 14.5 to 17.5), overgrown molar(s) (7.6 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 6.6 to 8.7), perineal soiling (4.5 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 3.7 to 5.4), overgrown incisor(s) (4.3 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 3.5 to 5.2) and ileus (4.2 per cent, 95 per cent CI: 3.4 to 5.0). Conclusions This study augments the limited evidence base on rabbit health and can assist veterinarians to better advise owners on optimal animal husbandry priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Hermien C Craven
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - David C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - David B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Hedley
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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