Identification of apparently neurotoxic metabolites from assemblages of marine filamentous cyanobacteria associated with the intoxication of captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Florida Keys.

Intoxications of captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Florida Keys have been linked to observed interactions with marine macrophytic algal and cyanobacterial communities within enclosures. Taxonomic characterization of these communities coupled, in turn, to available observational data collected during intoxication events point to a contribution of filamentous cyanobacterial assemblages comprised of members of the polyphyletic genus, Lyngbya sensu lato. To identify toxic metabolites possibly relevant to these intoxications, chemical screening for known neurotoxins from cyanobacteria, as well as other regionally relevant harmful algal bloom (HAB) taxa, was combined with toxicity testing, and subsequent bioassay-guided fractionation, employing early life stages (i.

BLOOD FATTY ACID PROFILES OF NERITIC JUVENILE WILD GREEN TURTLES () AND KEMP'S RIDLEYS ().

Blood fatty acid profiles can indicate an animal's wild-type diet composition and fatty acid status, but have not been reported in sea turtles. Newer technologies allow for fatty acid profiles from very small (less than three drops) samples of whole blood. This study examined whole blood fatty acid profiles of presumably healthy, neritic, juvenile, wild green () ( = 9; 6 males, 3 females) and Kemp's ridley () ( = 8; 6 males, 2 females) turtles from North Carolina, USA.

FOCUSED ASSESSMENT WITH SONOGRAPHY AS AN AID FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF GASTROINTESTINAL PERFORATION IN A BOBCAT ( FELIS RUFUS ).

A 10-yr-old female spayed bobcat (Felis rufus) presented with a 3-day history of lethargy, anorexia, and two episodes of vomiting. An emergency field visit was scheduled to perform abdominal radiography and ultrasonography. The bobcat was assessed to be approximately 5-10% dehydrated, on the basis of decreased skin turgor and tacky mucous membranes.

Use of a Nitinol Wire Stent for Management of Severe Tracheal Stenosis in an Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus).

A 25-year-old, female eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus) presented for dyspnea 3 weeks after anesthesia and surgery for egg yolk coelomitis. Radiography, computed tomography, and tracheoscopy revealed multiple tracheal strictures spanning a length of 2.6 cm in the mid to distal trachea.

Supplements for exotic pets.

The use of supplements has become commonplace in an effort to complement traditional therapy and as part of long-term preventive health plans. This article discusses historical and present uses of antioxidants, vitamins, and herbs. By complementing traditional medicine with holistic and alternative nutrition and supplements, the overall health and wellness of exotic pets can be enhanced and balanced.

Diagnostic imaging of peripheral vestibular disease in a Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides).

A 20-year-old Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) presented for severe left-sided head tilt and circling to the left. Peripheral vestibular disease associated with otitis media extending into the left quadrate bone was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. Otoscopy confirmed a ruptured tympanic membrane, and a brainstem auditory evoked response test confirmed loss of hearing in the affected ear.

Diagnosis and treatment of proventricular nematodiasis in an umbrella cockatoo (Cacatua alba).

Case Description: A 16-year-old female umbrella cockatoo (Cacatua alba) was referred to the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine for evaluation of a 3-year seasonal history of lethargy and weight fluctuation.

Clinical Findings: Abnormalities detected via clinicopathologic analyses included mild leukocytosis, heterophilia, and lymphopenia consistent with a stress leukogram. Previous fecal examinations failed to diagnose enteric parasite infestation.

Productive thyroid follicular carcinoma in a wild barred owl (Strix varia).

An adult male barred owl (Strix varia) was found unable to fly on a pasture during the day. On presentation, several lacerations were noted on the left wing. The animal was anesthetized for radiographic examination, which revealed mild swelling and irregularity of the soft tissues of the left wing.

Risk factors associated with cataracts and lens luxations in captive pinnipeds in the United States and the Bahamas.

Objective: To determine risk factors for lens luxation and cataracts in captive pinnipeds in the United States and the Bahamas.

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Animals: 111 pinnipeds (99 California sea lions [Zalophus californianus], 10 harbor seals [Phoca vitulina], and 2 walruses [Odobenus rosmarus]) from 9 facilities.