A novel two-catheter method for urethral catheterization improves success rates of urethral catheterization in female dogs and cats weighing less than ten kilograms.

Objective: To compare the success rates for urethral catheterization in clinical patients using the traditional and 2-catheter techniques when placed by personnel of all experience levels.

Animals: 38 female cats and dogs weighing less than 10 kg were prospectively enrolled.

Methods: Enrolled animals were randomized to have a urethral catheter placed by the traditional technique or the 2-catheter method under sedation or general anesthesia.

Developing a predictive model for spinal shock in dogs with spinal cord injury.

Background: Reduced pelvic limb reflexes in dogs with spinal cord injury typically suggests a lesion of the L4-S3 spinal cord segments. However, pelvic limb reflexes might also be reduced in dogs with a T3-L3 myelopathy and concurrent spinal shock.

Hypothesis/objectives: We hypothesized that statistical models could be used to identify clinical variables associated with spinal shock in dogs with spinal cord injuries.

Comparison of high-field MRI and multidetector CT for grading Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Chiari-like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM) are common illnesses that can cause debilitating neuropathic pain in Cavalier King Charles spaniels (CKCS). The current imaging modality to screen CKCS for CM/SM is MRI of the brain and cervical spine. Magnetic resonance imaging provides good soft tissue detail and contrast of the cerebellum and cervical spinal cord.

Mechanical quantitative sensory testing in cavalier King Charles spaniels with and without syringomyelia.

Background: Syringomyelia (SM) is a debilitating condition in the cavalier King Charles spaniel (CKCS) that results in neuropathic pain and diminished quality of life. Von Frey aesthesiometry (VFA) is a method of mechanical quantitative sensory testing that provides an objective sensory threshold (ST) value and can be used to quantify neuropathic pain (NP) and monitor response to therapy. The utility of VFA has been previously established in client-owned dogs with acute spinal cord injury but the technique has not been evaluated in dogs with SM.

Understanding and Treating Chiari-like Malformation and Syringomyelia in Dogs.

Chiari-like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM) are common and debilitating conditions in toy and small breed dogs. CM, considered ubiquitous in the cavalier King Charles spaniel (CKCS) population, results in abnormal cerebrospinal fluid dynamics which can lead to the development of SM. The clinical signs associated with CM/SM are frequently confused with other otologic and dermatologic conditions, which may delay appropriate treatment.

Presumed lupus erythematosus cells identified in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from a Mexican Hairless dog.

A neutered male Mexican Hairless dog was presented for generalized weight loss and weakness. Initial laboratory testing and diagnostic imaging revealed thrombocytopenia and an interstitial to miliary lung pattern affecting all lung fields. Mild joint effusion was found on physical examination affecting the stifle, tarsal, carpal, and elbow joints.