2011 Summer TECHNEWS

2011

|

VOL UME 34 I S S UE 4

PREMIER JOURNAL

FOR

CANADIAN VETERINARY TECHNICIANS

SUMMER

A NATIONAL JOURNAL PUBLISHED BY THE ONTARIO ASSOCATION OF VETERINARY TECHNICIANS

D E D I C AT E D TO PROFESSIONALISM

CONTINUING EDUCATION • The Naked Mole-Rat • Linking Compassion & Compliance • Uh-Oh - They’re Neuro! Now What?!

PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER 40034241 • PUBLISHED

BY THE OAVT • Return Canadian undeliverable address to: OAVT, 100 Stone Rd W., Suite 104 Guelph, ON N1G 5L3

Plus: Personal Protective Equipment, House-Soiling in Felines, Pharmacology Column: L-Deprenyl, Emetic Agents for the Small Animal Poisoned Patient, Round Penning & Longeing, and more!

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Subsidiaries of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA.

10701

2011 Platinum Sponsors Making continuing education better & more accessible across Canada Bayer HealthCare Animal Health Division

Letter from the Editor............................................................................................................... 2

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Canada, Inc.

Websites to Watch..................................................................................................................... 3

Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health

Mixed-Breed Study.................................................................................................................... 3 Safety Column: Personal Protective Equipment......................................................................... 4

Medi Cal/Royal Canin Veterinary Diet

CE Article #1: The Naked Mole-Rat.................................................................................... 7

Pfizer Animal Health

House-Soiling in Felines: Behavioural Causes & Treatment Options....................................... 12

These companies are generously supporting a series of outstanding learning opportunities for registered veterinary technicians through OAVT.

Puzzle...................................................................................................................................... 18

34th Annual OAVT Conference & Trade Show February 16 - 18, 2012 Toronto, Ontario This meeting continues to expand and grow in stature, as the largest and best stand alone Registered Veterinary Technician/Technologist meeting in the world.

Professionalism & Ethics Course Outstanding one-day CE courses offered during the year. Call the office for the date and location closest to you.

TECHNEWS The quarterly national publication with three CE articles in each issue delivered directly to your door!

Making information, education, industry news and career opportunities available to technicians - everyday and everywhere! www.oavt.org We applaud these companies for working closely with Canadian veterinary technicians and OAVT in the design and delivery of these exciting programs throughout 2011.

EECI-11324-01 / bsg110519-s01-01

The Companion Animal Parasite Council Launches Partnership Program............................... 11 CE Article #2: Linking Compassion & Compliance......................................................... 15 Vet Tech Turned Pig Farmer Appears in 2011 Faces of Farming Calendar................................. 19 CE Article #3: Uh-Oh - They’re Neuro! Now What?!......................................................... 21 Continuing Education Opportunities..................................................................................... 24 TECHNEWS Summer 2011 CE Quizzes.......................................................................... 25 Emetic Agents for the Small Animal Poisoned Patient............................................................. 27 Employment Ads..................................................................................................................... 28 Tech Tips and Tidbits.............................................................................................................. 29 Submitting Articles to TECHNEWS...................................................................................... 29 Global News........................................................................................................................... 30 TECHNEWS Subscriptions.................................................................................................... 31 Pharmacology Column: L-Deprenyl........................................................................................ 32 Round Penning & Longeing................................................................................................... 34 Pets Leave Carbon Paw Prints.................................................................................................. 35 Tiger Census Yields Good News, and a Warning..................................................................... 35 Did You Know?....................................................................................................................... 36

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Next Issue: Fall 2011 Deadline for Material: August 1, 2011 Distribution Date: September 15, 2011 TECHNEWS is a quarterly publication published by the OAVT.

Employment Ads: Please see Employment Ad Information on Page 28 For advertising information: Contact Cass Bayley: Tel. (519) 263-5050 Fax (519) 263-2936

• Editor - Cass Bayley (cass@bayleygroup.com) • Technical Editor - Shirley Inglis, AHT, RVT (shirley@naccvp.com)

The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Board of Directors nor the members of the Association.

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

Printed on recycled paper

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Welcome to the summer issue of TECHNEWS which is rich with content designed to provide an excellent resource for you and your colleagues.

art/state of the heart care and details the integral work that technicians bring to successful results. The article, including the Compliance Review Form, is a great tool that can be adapted to your clinic’s particular needs.

The Naked Mole-Rat is the first CE article (page 7) from author Alison Weller who is the senior Veterinary Technologist at the University of Toronto Mississauga animal care facility. Alison’s inside view working with researchers gives her a unique vantage point in presenting an article on this virtually blind rodent and their uses in research.

The neurologic patient is the subject of CE article #3: Uh-Oh - They’re Neuro!

Now What?! by returning author Jennifer Panko who coordinates the rehabilitation service at The OVC Companion Animal Hospital. Jenn cautions that animals with neurologic symptoms are critically ill patients who require immediate intervention that can be managed by a technician under the supervision of a veterinarian. Enjoy the full article on page 21.

CE Article #2 on Linking Compassion & Compliance (page 15) comes from one of the industry’s most proactive thought leaders, Robin Downing. Robin’s cutting-edge work in pain management has been well documented and we are proud to have her contribution in TECHNEWS. This article focuses on the team’s role in delivering state of the

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One of the most highly evaluated speakers at the OAVT February conference was Nettie Barr who is a passionate force in the horse industry and a passionate speaker. She has kindly provided an excellent article on Round Penning & Longeing for equine enthusiasts on page 34.

The articles in this summer issue are a reflection of many requests from our readers. We greatly appreciate your feedback. Keep it coming! Let us know what you find useful and what you would like to see in future issues, and it shall be done! Better yet send in an article, photos and news because that’s what this industry is all about - sharing and learning from each other.

In the fall issue you will read about the amazing Bowmanville Animal Clinic that won TECHNEWS’ Clinic of the Year with an enthusiastic presentation at the OAVT Awards Gala in February.

Their team spirit and leadership model is something we should all aspire to. The fall issue will announce the next competition and highlight this impressive team of technicians!

Cass Bayley Editor, TECHNEWS

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Mixed Breed Study VetCares.com vetCARES.com is the online home of The Cancer Center at CARES. CARES (The Center for Animal Referral and Emergency Services) is a veterinary specialty practice based in Langhorne, PA. Creators have dubbed the free online resource as “one of the most comprehensive online information resources on cancer care for pets.” Treatment options, care and support available for pets diagnosed with cancer are some of the topics covered on the site. The site also offers printable patient handouts for veterinarians that explain different types of cancer, as well as a “cancer dictionary” detailing medical terminology. (dvmnewsmagazine.com) AAHA Launches Parasite Counselor Program The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is launching the firstever Parasite Counselor Program, which offers veterinarians, veterinary technicians and practice team members specially-tailored courses on parasites and prevention. This program arms veterinary professionals with the information necessary to have detailed conversations with pet owners about the harmful impact parasites have on animals and how zoonotic diseases can be spread to humans. The Parasite Counselor Program, a complimentary web-based program that is sponsored by an educational grant from Merial, will consist of four online courses covering fleas, ticks, heartworm and internal parasites.

Participants who complete all four courses will receive CE credit and designation of “Parasite Counselor” from AAHA. Parasite Counselors will have a strong foundation for advising their clients on how to best protect their pets from parasites. To participate in the Parasite Counselor program webcast or to register for the flea module, visit the education section of the AAHA website at www.AAHAnet.org. (veterinary advantage weekly news) Canine Influenza Now Afflicting Dogs in 34 States Canine influenza, a newer virus (evolved from equine influenza) which first appeared in 2004 among racing greyhounds in Florida, has since been transmitted to dogs in 34 U.S. states. Owners planning to board their dogs, take them to obedience classes or other social events, can find useful information on the subject on the American Veterinary Medical Association’s website. The article is entitled Control of Canine Influenza in Dogs and can be found at http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_guidelines.asp . (veterinary advantage weekly news) AVMA: Disaster Plans Must Include Pets As emergency crews respond to the tsunami crisis in Japan and flooding in California, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is reminding pet owners in a video to include pets and livestock in emergency plans.

In the short video, Dr. Heather Case, the AVMA’s disaster response expert, details the simple plans and precautions that pet, horse and livestock owners can undertake to protect their animals if disaster occurs. The video details how prepare a disaster kit with information and supplies that will allow you to evacuate safely with your animals. The kit should include, among other things, special disaster identification tags, with your cellphone number, a hotel where you’ll be staying and/or the number of an out-of-town relative so that you can be found even during an evacuation. The video has been posted on AVMAtv.org, the AVMA Media Library and also on YouTube. The AVMA encourages bloggers and journalists to post the video on their websites. (veterinary advantage weekly news)

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

The German Shepherd is top mixed-breed, but few mutts get flea preventives, study reveals Mixed-breeds account for more than half, 53 percent, of companion canines in the U.S. German Shepherds, the second most popular purebred breed registered with the American Kennel Club, is the most popular breed found in the nation’s “mutts,” according to The National Mutt Census, launched in 2010 by Mars Veterinary.

Mars collected more than 36,000 samples from mixed-breed dogs across the country and combined the data taken from those samples with more than 16,000 responses from an online survey of mixed-breed owners.

The remaining top mutt breeds, in order, are Labrador Retriever, Chow Chow, Boxer, Rottweiler, Poodle, American Staffordshire Terrier, Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel and Siberian Husky.

Other information revealed by the census deals with the care of mixed-breeds. Dry food is the most popular feeding choice (65 percent), followed by feeding a mixture of wet and dry (21 percent), raw food and scraps (9 percent) and all wet food (5 percent). Nearly 70 percent of mixed-breed dog owners in the census don’t use regular flea and tick preventives, but 48 percent say they sleep with their dogs. About 89 percent of mixed-breeds have been spayed or neutered, according to the study.

Additionally, most mixed-breeds are smaller dogs, with dogs weighing more than 80 pounds representing less than 11 percent of the mixed-breed population. About half of all the mixed-breeds in the census (46 percent) were obtained from a shelter, while 18 percent came from friends and neighbors.

Detailed information about the census results for each state can be found at muttcensus.com. Each state’s information includes data about breed types, but also the frequency of veterinary care, the human-animal bond, how the dog is cared for at home, who cares for the dog and compliance with veterinary advice.

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SAFETY COLUMN

When it comes to PPE (personal protective equipment) things can get quite confusing. PPE requirements originate from a number of sources, such as legislation, guidelines and best practices, but these documents provide little information about how to choose the correct protection. There are many suppliers with a vast array of products and though central distributors may carry several options, they may only offer the most popular models.

The need to wear personal protection indicates that the worker is exposed to the hazards, that such exposure could not be fully eliminated by other methods.

The correct choice of protection is then critical. Enabling staff to provide input regarding choice and fit will promote compliance.

Although there may be a number of causes for outbreaks, such as the ringworm outbreak in a Newmarket, Ontario animal shelter last spring, these events may be avoided if there are clear procedures on “how to record and report infectious diseases, how to clean and disinfect areas and items, personal hygiene, and protective clothing, among other things.

These protocols need to be in writing and accessible to all personnel.”1 Over the next few issues, we’ll review the need for personal protection and some of the choices, with a focus on desirable characteristics found in each type of personal protection.

M. Christi Cooper, RVT, CRSP is the Industrial - Agricultural Safety Officer for the University of Guelph. Her role focuses on worker safety issues at the satellite campuses and research stations across Ontario. Christi is a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) and a RVT. She spent 16 years at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (OVC) before switching to worker safety with the University’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety.

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There are many types of PPE for use in the workplace. The first line of defense is adequate clothing.2 In most situations, street clothes are no longer the standard for shelter, vet clinic or research facility personnel. Uniforms, scrubs, lab coats or coveralls have become the norm in the veterinary workplace. Guests, including volunteers and high-school co-op students may only have the option of protective clothing over street clothes. Each facility should set up a dress code policy

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

providing guidance on how, when and what to wear, in order to provide visitors guidance on how to protect themselves, others in the clinic and their families at home.

Protective clothing should fit the person, with the cuffs of overcoats covering long sleeves. Pant legs of coveralls should cover pants underneath and socks while touching the shoes, but not so long that they drag or can be stepped on and absorb moisture (thereby transferring contaminants from kennels to the waiting room, etc). Be aware of personal clothing that may be exposed during patient care, such as turtlenecks in winter. Each shift should begin with clean protective clothing. Garments should be changed promptly whenever they become visibly soiled or contaminated. Generally, outerwear should be changed and laundered daily.3 Simply wearing a lab coat may be sufficient for appointments involving healthy pets: vaccination, heartworm and other routine exams or when using chemicals that have low toxicity (for example, diluted hospital disinfectants)3. For dealing with higher hazards such as potentially infectious cases, cases with open wounds to flush, clean and debride, or toxic chemicals including bleach or formaldehyde-based disinfectants, donning a disposable gown that offers semi-permeable properties is preferable. Waterproof coveralls or aprons are necessary when working with large volumes of spray, hosing kennel runs with disinfecting solutions, or giving pesticide shampoo baths.

Recommendations from the Compendium of Veterinary Standard Precautions for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Veterinary Personnel state that “impermeable gowns should be used when exposures to splashes or large quantities of body fluids are anticipated” and that “disposable gowns should not be reused.”3 In most cases when gowns are worn, gloves should also be used, and in specific situations (chemotherapy treatments), double gloving should be practiced. The first pair of gloves is worn under the knitted wrist cuff of the gown and the second pair worn over it. The outer (contaminated) surface of a gown should only be touched with gloved hands.3

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On a daily basis, we need to remain aware of the hazards in our work, and be vigilant in our role with personal and public safety, as well as aware of the potential for spreading infectious disease.

From time to time, disposable gowns can be reused, for as much as a day’s worth of treatments. In the case of infectious disease in an isolation room for example, gowns must be dedicated to the patient, stored with the outer (contaminated) surface folded together, and hung on a rack or hook where it and adjacent surfaces are completely disinfected on a regular basis.

Extreme care must be used in donning and doffing gowns in these cases, wearing gloves and following their removal with thorough hand washing.

In an industrial laboratory setting, lab coats are worn as protection (over street clothes) in the lab, removed and left in the lab upon exiting. In hospitals, lab coats are worn over scrubs to keep them clean, and removed when in surgery – the cleanest area. But doctors and nurses can be seen throughout hospitals in scrubs, lab coats, and on occasion – wearing surgical gowns as an overcoat. Expectations of dress codes seem to vary between medical services, leading to much confusion over what is acceptable in shared work locations: hallways, washrooms, meeting rooms and cafeterias.

We know that visible organic matter is not the only indication of bacteria or other pathogens, yet workers from a variety of industries seem quite content to travel to and from work in their medical type uniforms. Ideally, veterinary protective garments should not be worn outside of the work environment and work clothing should be laundered at work. If protective clothing is laundered at home, it is recommended to change at work and carry it home in a plastic bag. Wash it with laundry soap and water, and dry

it on the hottest setting for the material type. Put it directly into a washing machine – and not in a load mixed with the family wash, remembering that children under five years of age, elderly individuals, pregnant women or people with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to disease.1 Laundry should not be considered clean until it is completely dried.3 On a daily basis, we need to remain aware of the hazards in our work, and be vigilant in our role with personal and public safety, as well as aware of the potential for spreading infectious disease. This can be a moving target, due to the discovery of emerging diseases and the growing awareness of the global community.

So keep in mind that protective clothing serves a purpose. It’s a simple method of leaving work at work!

Next issue, we’ll review hearing, foot and eye protection.

references > 1. S. Weese, Worms and Germs Blog, May 13, 2010 http://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/2010/05/articles/animals/dogs/ why-do-shelter-outbreaks-occur/ 2. D. McKelvey; Safety Handbook for Veterinary Hospital Staff; AAHA Press, 1999.

3. National Associated of State Health Veterinarians; Compendium of Veterinary Standard Precautions for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Veterinary Personnell; 2010 http://www.nasphv.org/ Documents/VeterinaryPrecautions.pdf

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As one of only two eusocial mammals on Earth, the naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) is a very fascinating animal. Not being closely related to a mole or a rat, this nearly naked and virtually blind rodent spends most of its life in the wild underground in burrows throughout Africa. My article will touch on their ecology, behaviour, reproduction, their unique biology, husbandry practices in captivity, and their uses in research.

Introduction The Naked Mole-Rat (NMR), Heterocephalus glaber, is the only nearly “hairless” rodent in the world. As seen in close-up photos, they have whiskers and a few tactile hairs along their body and appendages. Unlike their common name, they are not closely related to a mole NOR a rat, rather they are more related to porcupines, chinchillas, and guinea pigs.

In their native habitats of eastern Africa called “the horn” – Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia – these animals are rarely seen.

They are a burrowing mammal, found deep in underground tunnels, and they hardly ever venture above ground.

They live in large incestuous communities of up to 300+ individuals in an figure 1

CE Article #1 The Naked Mole-Rat

eusocial colony, where generations are together. One of two eusocial mammals in the world – the other being the furred Damaraland Mole Rat, the Naked molerat community structure resembles that of social insects (ants, termites, some bees and wasps), where there is one boss, a female called the queen. Other members of the colony divide the labour needed to survive, and there is co-operative care of the young.

Biology They are known as the longest living rodent on Earth, with a lifespan up to 30 years in captivity. Their biology is very unique. Along with their virtually hairless skin, they have a short broad head with

chart 1 > Length 8 – 20 cm

(Queens up to 33cm) Tail

3 - 4.5 cm

Weight 30 – 45 g

(Queens 50 - 80g)

tiny ears and eyes, a pig-like snout, very powerful jaw muscles and large protruding incisors located outside their mouth able to move independently from each other – like chopsticks (figure 1). Their incisor teeth are used to dig, and their lip and side skin folds seal just behind the teeth to prevent soil ingestion. Adult size varies, not with age, but with social status. The queen is the largest, with a noticeably elongated body (chart 1). A first time queen actually increases the length of each spinal vertebra (by 2 mm3) during her first pregnancy to allow the body to carry large litters while still fitting into the narrow burrow tunnels. Pregnant

Alison R. Weller, ACT, RVT, RLAT, RMLAT, ZAT is the senior Veterinary Technologist at the University of Toronto Mississauga animal care facility. Her role focuses on animal care and assisting researchers in their studies within the Arts and Science departments at the Mississauga and St. George campuses. She graduated from the Animal Care Technician program at Sheridan College in 1998, the Veterinary Technician program at Seneca College in 2000, and the Zoological Animal Technician program from the Alberta Business and Education School in 2010. After working in several small animal and emergency practices, Alison began her career in laboratory animal science in 1999, and received her RLAT in 2001 through the Canadian Association of Laboratory Animal Science (CALAS). One of her biggest academic accomplishments was completing her RMLAT in 2007 through CALAS. An exotic animal enthusiast from a young age, Alison has worked with many different exotic species in her career, and has had a variety of pets at home; including various mammals, reptiles and fish.

Her favourites, though, are her adorable and handsome cats Armand and Hecubus.

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other females from coming into estrus, and males from producing sperm. However, once sterile members are removed from the colony, they can become fertile in a short period of time. Gestation period is over two months (range of 66-76 days), and pups are born pink and blind – looking like mouse pups (figure 4). Litter size averages 12, and weaning to solid food by the queen is around 1 month.

Younger animals are never removed from the colony, as with other rodent species.

Figure 2

queens can actually increase their body mass by up to 87% (figure 2). There is no sexual dimorphism between males and non-breeding females. The outward difference is only the viewing of a faint pink horizontal line visible between the

Figure 3a - Non-breeding Female

genital mound and anus in non-breeding females, or absence in males. Males do not have descended testes. Alternatively, the queen will have a dark pink line and a perforate vagina (figure 3a-c).

Other than the queen and up to 3 breeding males that she has chosen, all other workers are infertile by reproductive suppression using both behavioural aggression and chemical pheromone control.

The queen rules with brute force, pushing around the other members of the colony, especially non-breeding females she feels are threatening her status. Her urine contains a pheromone which is spread throughout the entire burrow to prevent

NMRs are poikilotherms, or “coldblooded”; meaning they are not capable of thermoregulation. They lack sweat glands and insulating body fat. Their environment is similar to reptiles, using ambient temperatures to warm up (huddle together, around 37°C) or cool down (away from others, around 29°C).

Ecology and Behaviour NMRs are the mammalian equivalent of a social insect; living in groups, with a queen as their leader. Every colony member has their role, whether it is a soldier to protect from predators, a digger to expand the burrow, or breeders/nursemaids to further populate the colony (chart 2).

They all have a common goal – to increase their family, protect, and provide for all. When a queen dies, many high ranking non-breeding females (usually soldiers) gain weight and begin to fight each other; shoving, biting and fencing with their large incisors until there is a

Figure 3b - Male

Figure 3c - Queen

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Figure 4

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chart 2 > 2

1 breeding female and 1-3 breeding males along with a small group of nonbreeding ‘soldiers’ First working class comprised of 10-50 nonbreeding workers Second working class comprised of 50-200+ workers

Figure 5

champion – this can last for days, weeks, or months.

Since they have very poor eyesight, they rely on their acute sensitivity to vibrations and movement of air currents in their environment. They communicate through touch, smell, non-vocal behaviours (72 – includes grooming, resting, thermoregulation, feeding, elimination, locomotion, digging, mating, agnostic, interactive3), and their primary mode – vocalizations.

They make at least 17 different sounds; which include squeaking, chirping, tooth grinding (mechanical sound that sounds like clicks), grunts, and hisses.

The colony is sporadically active at all times of day or night, taking shifts to work, sleep, and eat. Soldiers defend against predators (e.g. snakes) and foreign NMRs. They roll around in the toilet chamber to have the odor of the colony

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to distinguish each other from enemies.

In the wild, the colony members work together to dig tunnels. They line up nose to tail and operate like a conveyor belt.

A digger mole-rat at the front uses its teeth to break through new soil. Behind the digger, sweepers use their feet and the fine hairs between their toes to whisk the dirt backwards. At the back of the line a “volcanoer” kicks the dirt up onto the surface of the ground, creating a distinc-

Figure 6

tive, volcano-shaped mole hill – once a mound is made, the tunnel branch to the surface is closed off – packed with soil to prevent flooding, or an easy entrance for enemies. Within a colony, there may be a few individuals that are fatter and lazier than the rest, and seem to have the urge to travel. They may want to leave the colony, in search of a partner to mate with and establish a new colony. These are referred to as “dispersers” (figure 5)4.

Housing and Husbandry in Research At UTM, we created an artificial burrow system, similar to their homes in the wild, ie. quite different than the other rodents housed in research settings.

We used clear microisolator cages with a series of interconnected with plexiglass tubes (4-7 cm width) inserted into drilled holes through the cages. Corncob bedding (Bed-o’cobs, The Andersons, Maumee, OH) and nesting material (Enviro-Dri, Shepherd Specialty Papers, Watertown, TN) are provided, which is moved around by colony members (figure 6, 7). NMR colonies compartmentalize their housing, so each colony needs separate cages for sleeping, eating, and eliminating waste. Caging units are expanded as colony sizes increase. Tubing must be monitored frequently and replaced due to wear (chewing/scratching).

NMRs need a high ambient temperature and relative humidity (27-32°C and 5065%), and additional heat sources (lights, substrate heaters) for basking. Since these animals are virtually blind, for the workers benefit we keep the light cycle at 12 hours on:12 hours off.

Their diet is unique in that they do not drink water, but acquire their hydration from food; therefore, no water bottles are

Figure 7

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Uses in Research Although known to the native research community since the 1950’s, the naked mole-rat did not capture the attention of Western biologists until the mid 1970’s.

Listed are their main uses in research: • Behaviour – One of two eusocial mammals in the world Figure 8

required. Being herbivores, in the wild they eat bulbs and tubers found from digging towards the surface of the ground.

Research colonies are fed a daily diet of freshly skinned and cut sweet potato (4 g/ animal/day3), and moistened mouse pellet diet (Harlan Teklad Extruded Global 19% protein Rodent Diet #2019, Madison, WI) (figure 8). Supplemental treats can include carrots, squash and pumpkin seeds. They also perform coprophagia to obtain certain lost nutrients.

They are extremely docile, but difficult to handle as they can move both backwards and forwards with ease. The scoop method is used for cage changes, and the scruffing technique is used for more detailed observations or procedures.

There are not many known diseases of this species as yet. In our colonies, we have noticed a few with malocclusion, xeroderma, and fighting injuries when newly paired.

• Pain – Lack a key neurotransmitter (substance P); responsible in mammals for sending pain signals to the CNS; lack of pain sensation to skin with capsaicin and acid • Aging – Long life span compared to mice (9 x longer), and delayed aging • Age-related Diseases – Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, Lou Gehrig’s; NMR samples show tissues better at handling stress-induced proteins • Cancer – Resistance of tumor growth; controlled by an extra gene p16, along with p27 – like humans • Infertility – Stress-induced from Queen; can suppress the ovulatory cycle and lower sperm count • Metabolism – Metabolic rate is less than half that of a mouse or rat; are able to survive in these low-oxygen, high-carbon-dioxide environments; helps prevent overheating in tunnels • Brain damage – Brain tissue can withstand extreme hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, for a much longer time than other mammals

glossary > • Eusocial: A term used for the highest level of social organization in a hierarchical classification; a truly social family • Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth • Xeroderma: Dry skin • Coprophagia: The consumption of feces • Sexual dimorphism: The visual difference in form between males and females of the same species

• Vitamin D metabolism – No obvious sources of vitamin D • Sensory systems – Functionally blind and degenerative hearing, but has higher hearing capabilities in lower frequency ranges Conclusion While the naked mole-rat is not as well known as other rodent species currently used in research, there are many benefits to working with this fascinating animal model. NMRs are long lived, highly social, very active, and extremely docile. They are fairly easily maintained in a laboratory setting, and can be readily adapted to a wide variety of research topics.

references & further reading > 1. http://www.theanimalfiles.com/mammals/rodents/mole_rat_naked.html 2. http://www.bio.davidson.edu/people/vecase/Behavior/Spring2002/Poulton/poulton.html 3. Sherman, P.W., Jarvis, J.U.M., and Alexander, R.D. (1991). The biology of the naked mole-rat. New Jersey: Princeton University Press.

4. Artwohl, J., Hill, T., Corner, C., Park, T. “Naked Mole-Rats: Unique Opportunities and Husbandry Challenges”. Lab Animal. May 2002, pp. 32-36.

• http://pubs.acs.org/cen/critter/8202molerats.html • http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/naked_mole_rat.aspx • http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20327267.300-naked-mole-rats-may-help-cure-cancer.html • http://www.physorg.com/news178813742.html • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naked_mole_rat • http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Publications/ZooGoer/2002/3/nakedmolerats.cfm • http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/SmallMammals/fact-nakedmolerat.cfm • http://www.torontozoo.com/Animals/details.asp?AnimalId=622 • http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/mammals/rodent/Nakedmolerat.shtml • http://ec.europa.eu/research/infocentre/article_en.cfm?id=/research/headlines/news/article_08_02_25_en.html&item=Infocentre&artid=643 • http://zinjanthropus.wordpress.com/2009/10/16/genital-morphology-and-social-system/ • University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) Naked mole-rat Breeding Colony Standard Operating Procedure

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TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

New program offers three levels of parasite education, support materials for vets, staff The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) announces the creation of its Partnership Program to provide additional parasite educational materials for clinics and staff.

The new three-tiered program is for veterinarians, technicians and clinics that support the CAPC guidelines and desire closer involvement with the organization.

The three levels include: Friends of the CAPC; CAPC Compliant Practice; and CAPC Technician Partner.

According to Dwight D. Bowman, MS, Ph.D., president of CAPC, the Partnership Program was a natural extension of the educational efforts of the organization and helps ensure greater utilization of the many resources CAPC provides to practices and staff members.

“In the last few years we have developed and produced a large number of resources, tools and presentations that clinics find useful in educating staff members and clients about parasite control, prevention and management,” says Dr. Bowman.

“The Partnership Program allows us to identify and build ongoing relationships with those veterinarians and technicians who support the CAPC mission and guidelines and who want to utilize our materials in those efforts.”

The three Partnership Program levels and benefits include: • Friends of the CAPC is the base-level program available free of charge to clinics, veterinarians or technicians

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

who support the CAPC guidelines.

Members of this program receive a CAPC window cling, subscription to the CAPC E-newsletter and first-toknow alerts about upcoming events and programs.

• The CAPC Compliant Practice level is designed for clinics that support the guidelines and agree to display client educational literature and commit to having at least one technician who has or will complete a CAPC online course or RACE- or state-approved parasitology course. Practices at this level receive a window cling, E-newsletter subscription, literature display stand, three CAPC lapel pins, clinic-customized poster, free CAPC brochures, canine and feline parasite posters, and two certificates for free CAPC Technician Partner enrollment. There is a $25 annual membership fee for this level.

• The CAPC Technician Partner level is for technicians who wish to show their support for CAPC and become more knowledgeable in the area of companion animal parasitology. At this level, technicians must complete one CAPC online course or other approved parasitology course and agree to become an advocate for the CAPC guidelines in the clinic. In return, Technician Partners receive a window cling, E-newsletter subscription, lapel pin and other CAPC materials. There is a $10 annual cost for membership.

“The initial response to the Partnership Program from veterinarians and techni-

cians has been tremendous,” Dr. Bowman adds. “The value of the materials provided and access to all the CAPC information resources more than makes up for the cost of the program. More importantly, it helps clinics improve their service to clients and increases overall compliance with parasite prevention and treatment guidelines, resulting in better care for pets.”

For more information on the Companion Animal Parasite Council and its Partnership program, as well as online registration for the program, visit www.capcvet.org.

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (www.capcvet.org) is an independent not-for-profit foundation comprised of parasitologists, veterinarians, medical, public health and other professionals that provides information for the optimal control of internal and external parasites that threaten the health of pets and people.

Formed in 2002, the CAPC works to help veterinary professionals and pet owners develop the best practices in parasite management that protect pets from parasitic infections and reduce the risk of zoonotic parasite transmission.

11

HouseSoiling in Felines: Behavioural Causes & Treatment Options

by Lindsay Greig

House-soiling in felines is a complex behaviour that can occur for a number of different reasons. It is behaviour worth investigating, given that it is “the most common behaviour problem for which cat owners seek assistance”.1 In surveys, it is also one of the top reasons that owners give for relinquishing their cat.2 House-soiling (or inappropriate elimination) can include urination, defecation, or spraying in places other than the litter box. Or it can be a combination of these behaviours: “spraying and urination outside the litter box are equally common and are the most often reported feline elimination problem, followed by defecation and a combination of urination and defecation, respectively”.3 It has been estimated that approximately 10% of pet cats will exhibit inappropriate elimination behaviour at some point in their life.4 Before a plan of treatment can be decided upon, the underlying cause of the behaviour needs to be determined.

The possible causes include medical problems, separation anxiety, marking behaviour, and substrate or location aversions or preferences.

When deciding how to treat a problem with house-soiling, any potential medi-

12

cal cause should be ruled out first, even if the client does not suspect one. Many possible medical causes have been cited, including gastrointestinal diseases, endoparasitemia, anatomical abnormalities (partial or complete obstructions), inflammatory bowel disease, nutritional disorders such as maldigestion and malabsorption syndromes, metabolic diseases, including liver and kidney disease, urinary tract infections, food allergies, or debilitating conditions that would preclude easy access to appropriate elimination areas, such as arthritis.5 Constipation, anal sac impaction, and pain may also be reasons for litter box avoidance.6 If the cat experiences dysuria or is straining painfully to defecate while in the litter box, they may make an association between the pain and the litter box, which can turn into a substrate and/or location aversion.

To complicate the issue even more, the reason that the cat stopped using its litter box may not be the reason why it continues to eliminate inappropriately. For example, the cat may have started soiling outside of the box due to a painful urinary tract infection, and while doing so developed a smooth surface preference.

Therefore, even after the infection has been treated, the cat continues to soil on smooth floor surfaces.7 When any possible medical issues have been ruled out, the house-soiling can be treated as a behavioural problem.

Separation anxiety is much less common in cats than dog, but involves similar behaviours, such as eliminating, vocalizing and excessive greeting and play upon the owner’s return. Cats are not prone to destructive behaviours, as dogs are. Another aspect in which cats differ is the timeline of their behaviour. Normally cats will not display intense separation behaviours within a few minutes to an hour after the owner leaves, as dogs typically do.

Also, cats typically do not display separation anxiety during an absence of 8 to 10 hours, but may do so if the owner’s absence exceeds 24 hours. After a long absence, some cats will eliminate immediately upon the owner’s return. The cat may also exhibit anxiety and elimination behaviour if it recognizes triggers that signify the owner’s departure for a long absence (e.g., a suitcase). It is also common for a cat to eliminate on an owner’s bed or clothing, and the owner may associate this with the cat being angry at them.

However, it is likely because in the cat’s state of anxiety, it is attracted to items that have a strong odour of its owner.

There are a few suggestions given for how to prevent the separation anxiety from occurring. The owner could provide a cat sitter, who would play with the cat and give it affection in the owner’s absence.

The owner could acquire a companion cat, and hope that this does not cause any new social behavioural problems. And, of course, there are pharmacologic options for treating anxiety.8

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

When considering marking as a cause of house-soiling, it is important to note that cats can use spray marking (urine), or nonspray marking (urine and/or feces).

Both male and female cats can mark by spraying, and research suggests that it has less to do with sexual influences and more to do with the feline social system.

For instance, “indoor cats that are visited by outdoor cats might start to spray the windows or sliding doors where outdoor cats are visible, particularly if the visiting cats spray”.9 It is also noted that these types of social situations can occur even within a household. A confident cat may spray everywhere to announce their presence or status, while a less confident cat may spray, mark with feces or squat. In the face of aggression, these less confident cats may not be comfortable with direct fighting, but will instead spray after the fact. Spraying involves both olfactory and visual cues. Confident cats may exhibit the posturing and behaviour of a cat that is spraying, without actually excreting any urine.9 A lot of owners will confuse spraying with urinating. It is best if they can observe the cat’s posturing and locations of the urine to determine what the cat is doing. If the cat is standing up, with its tail straight up, and the urine is found on vertical surfaces (like walls and the back of furniture), then the cat is spraying.

Spray can also be found on horizontal surfaces, but the wet area will be long and narrow. If the cat is squatting, and the urine is found in a circular puddle on a horizontal surface, then it is simply urinating. The owner must consider the cat’s social situation and where the urine puddle is found to determine if it is using squatting as marking. Feces or a puddle of urine may be a case of marking if it is found somewhere such as a door where feline visitors are seen.9 The treatments for marking behaviour are the same as for substrate or location aversion or preference, outlined below.

As mentioned earlier, there are many different reasons a cat may develop a substrate or location aversion or preference.

The cat may have had a painful experience or even been startled in the litter box, resulting in an aversion to the location and maybe even the litter. Or perhaps after

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

being declawed it avoided the litter box because scratching was painful, and then developed a preference for soft carpeting.

Or, a cat may hide from a frightening stimulus (such as a person or animal) in the home, and if they do not come out to use the litter box, they may develop a new preference.8 In any case, if the owner has ruled out a medical problem, separation anxiety and marking behaviour, it is likely that the cat has developed an aversion or preference.

not punish it, but simply startle it within the first 30 to 60 seconds of the sequence; this will interrupt the problem behaviour and the cat will associate the startle with learning. The timing is important; therefore, it may be helpful to place a bell on a breakaway collar for the cat so the owner knows where it is at all times. If none of the behavioural modifications are effective, the owner may have to consider a pharmacological approach.5

In treating an aversion or preference, or marking behaviour, the first step is to interfere with the olfactory component by eliminating any odours of soiling. All carpeting layers must be thoroughly cleaned or replaced. After cleaning, the owner can cover the area with heavy-gauge plastic, which will serve a dual purpose: it changes the tactile sensation for the cat, and prevents further soiling of the area.

In the beginning, it is best to isolate the cat to an area away from their previous soiling preference, and with access to different litter boxes and substrates to ensure the olfactory cycle is broken.5

House-soiling may be the most prevalent problem among behaviour cases, but this can be viewed as a great opportunity where a little owner-education can go a long way toward keeping a lot of cats out of shelters, and hopefully even saving some lives.

If a substrate preference or aversion is suspected, the owner should offer a variety of litters in a variety of boxes. They should choose substrates similar to those the cat has chosen to use; if the cat has chosen bedding or towels, the owner should try a soft sand litter, or even shredded newspaper or paper towels. An improvement in behaviour after matching the cat’s chosen texture would indicate a substrate preference or aversion.5 If a location preference or aversion is suspected, the owner should place a litter box with the preferred substrate in the cat’s chosen area; if the cat starts to use it, this would indicate a location preference or aversion. If the cat does not use it, the owner will have to try another approach.

They can try placing food dishes in the area, since most cats will not eliminate in the same area as they eat. Cats can be encouraged to make positive associations with the litter box; the owner can take the cat to the box frequently and wait with it, and if it uses the box or exhibits appropriate behaviours like scratching then they can praise it or even give it a treat. If the owner sees the cat initiating elimination behaviour outside of the box, they should

references > 1. Landsberg, G., Hunthausen, W., & Ackerman, L. (1997). Handbook of behaviour problems of the dog and cat.

Oxford, United Kingdom: ButterworthHeinemann, p. 88.

2. Case, L. P. (2003). The cat: Its behaviour, nutrition & health. Ames, Iowa: Iowa State Press, p. 106-7.

3. As cited in Overall, K. L. (1997).

Clinical behavioral medicine for small animals. St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby, p.

160.

4. Voith, V. L., DVM, PhD, & Borchelt, P. L., PhD (Eds). (1996). Readings in companion animal behaviour. Trenton, New Jersey: Veterinary Learning Systems, p. 179.

5. Overall, K. L. (1997). Clinical behavioral medicine for small animals. St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby, p. 169-73.

6. As cited in Overall, K. L. (1997).

Clinical behavioral medicine for small animals. St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby, p.

170.

7. Ontario SPCA. (2009). Top ten tips to help solve litter box dilemmas. Retrieved December 8, 2010, from http://www. ontariospca.ca/2-behavtips-cat2.shtml 8. Voith, V. L., DVM, PhD, & Borchelt, P. L., PhD (Eds). (1996). Readings in companion animal behaviour. Trenton, New Jersey: Veterinary Learning Systems, p. 183-5.

9. Overall, K. L. (1997). Clinical behavioral medicine for small animals. St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby, p. 166-7.

13

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Clinical Nutrition to Improve Quality of Life®

In our current economic climate, pet owner visits to veterinary practices are down. The recent Bayer pet owner study brought the issue of declining

pet owner visits, particularly for cats, into sharp focus. If a veterinary practice is going to weather this perfect storm of declining visits and economic challenges, it is critical to understand the role veterinary healthcare team members can and should play in enhancing the veterinary care provided, bonding clients to the practice, and providing state of the art care with state of the heart delivery – compassionate care in action. Linking compassion with compliance translates to advocating for what is best for the pet – advocating on behalf of a being who cannot advocate for itself. Increased compliance means increased client contact, increased numbers of client visits, and increased client loyalty.

CE Article #2 Linking Compassion & Compliance The Team’s Role in Delivering State of the Art/State of the Heart Care

The first and most important step in connecting compassion and compliance is to articulate the personal, collective, and practice values that define what is truly important to – or what is at the heart of – of the practice. Step two is to articulate your practice’s mission, answering the question: “How do we do things here?”

We’re really asking: “How do we get our patients the care they need and deserve?”

And just how do the veterinary healthcare team members make things happen?

fessionals whose knowledge and expertise complement those of the veterinarian.

Technicians should be maximally leveraged, putting their talents at the core of patient and client care. This empowers the veterinarian to focus on those things only the doctor is licensed to do. Pay attention to the details of daily tasks, but don’t lose sight of the “big picture”.

• Developing interests in practice management including inventory management, client education, and developing new services/procedures/ techniques that may be used in the practice • Daily upkeep/housekeeping in the treatment areas and examination rooms

The whole team needs to be involved in answering these critical questions. A team working together is more effective than simply a sum of the individuals and their efforts. Ground everyone in a solid understanding of the various responsibilities they may be asked to accept. Encourage collective thinking and think outside the box. Identifying the practice’s mission involves identifying tasks to be delegated away from the veterinarian and to health care team members. Veterinary technicians are highly skilled, well-trained pro-

Technician responsibilities should include: • All aspects of patient care and treatment room operations • Cultivating mutual trust and respect with the veterinarians as well as other team members • Unconditional commitment to quality medicine, compassionate animal handling, exceptional client service, and client education • Developing strong communication skills

As your team increases technician responsibilities for linking compassion and compliance, remember the advantages.

Advantages to the client: • More client/pet needs are met • Increased satisfaction with/loyalty to the practice • Increased perception of value Advantages to the pet: • Increased opportunities for early detection of disease

Robin Downing, DVM, CCRP, DAAPM is Hospital Director of two AAHA-accredited veterinary practices, Windsor Veterinary Clinic, PC, and The Downing Center for Animal Pain Management, LLC. Dr. Downing is a certified veterinary acupuncturist, a Certified Pain Educator (ASPE), and a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner. She is certified in animal chiropractic, and she holds the Diplomate credential in the American Academy of Pain Management, human medicine’s largest interdisciplinary pain management organization. Dr. Downing shares her passion for the Family-Pet-Veterinary Bond with audiences around the world.

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

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• Improved expertise of all healthcare team members Advantages to the technician: • Increased job satisfaction and selfesteem • Increased opportunities to contribute to practice growth • Opportunities for lasting practice contributions Advantages to the veterinarian: • Better utilization of doctor-specific skills • Increased time for practice management, practice development, and continuing education • “Doctor only” activities mean higher revenues The team itself can often identify potential contributions to the team and to the practice. If additional training is required, think through training details.

Create a flowchart with a time-line to help with planning and implementation of new responsibilities. With success and fine-tuning, each new responsibility builds upon the last.

There is an old saying that you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Compassionate care must be evident in every client interaction because the client’s perception is his/her reality. If we don’t take care of our clients, someone else will. Don’t forget to consider: • What your clients want • What your clients need • What your clients think • What your clients feel • Whether your clients are satisfied • Whether your clients will return (will become loyal) Compassionate care addresses the clients’ need to feel welcome, receive help in a timely fashion, be understood and respected, as well as the need to feel appreciated. Compassionate care focuses on excellence – both for the pet and for the client. And finally, compassionate care is the vehicle by which to drive increased compliance. Get creative in leveraging veterinary technicians to enhance the standard of care. Take a step-by-step approach to setting and meeting the

16

team’s goals for improving compliance.

Improved care, increased perception of value, better outcomes, and bonding of clients to the practice all serve to counteract the impact of decreased pet visits.

So, what do we know about compliance in veterinary medicine?

According to the comprehensive compliance study co-sponsored by the American Animal Hospital Association and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc., millions of cats and dogs are NOT in compliance with currently accepted best wellness care practices. Updated compliance data reveal that things have not changed appreciably. The majority of veterinary practices continue to miss the greatest opportunity ever presented to the profession – the opportunity to make life better for countless dogs and cats already coming into the practice for healthcare.

Ironically, most veterinarians believe compliance is quite high – because they have never measured it! Compliance means ensuring that veterinary patients receive the care they need and deserve.

Improving compliance means improving the standard of care. Once a practice recognizes the need for improvement in compliance, opportunities abound for the veterinary technician to make important things happen!

The most important compliance gap in practice is actually a “recommendation” gap. Here is one area in which the veterinary technician can really shine. The core competencies and key messages of the practice must be clarified by practice leadership for this strategy to work. All team members must be appropriately trained in order to reinforce the doctor’s recommendations. With the proper investment in time and training, better compliance raises the standard of medical care in the practice creating a stronger business model and a better bottom line.

Improved compliance impacts both quality of care and quality of life – for the patient AND the practice.

Data confirm that pet owners want what is best for their pets, and they want to be informed of what is best for their pets independent of the costs involved. They

want guidance, direction, reinforcement, and assistance setting priorities for the care their pets receive. This means closing the compliant gaps in the practice one step at a time. Fortunately there are some straightforward steps any practice can take: Step 1: Begin at the beginning It would be easy to look at the results of the compliance studies, feel completely overwhelmed, and stick to the status quo.

It would be easy to look at the various areas of poor compliance and just jump in, willy-nilly, attempting to change everything at once. This is the “ready, fire, aim…” approach. Veterinary practices don’t plan to fail, but they often fail to plan. Success means establishing a set of action steps to make more effective recommendations and then follow up with technician support of those recommendations.

Step 2: Make a decision and then act on it Improved compliance will not happen until the entire healthcare team decides it is important. Achieving better compliance and raising the standard of care demands that the team believes these goals are important. If, for instance, members of the healthcare team do not believe that early detection of disease is important, then no matter what policies, procedures, or protocols are put into place, effective recommendations and appropriate follow-through will never happen. With guidance and a commitment to what is best for the patient, technicians are empowered to communicate to clients the recommendations that are keys to quality medicine. We have a choice to practice either quality medicine or low-cost medicine, but we can’t have it both ways.

Compassion, compliance, and quality go hand-in-hand.

Step 3: Train, train, train Every technician on the team must be able to answer the question “How do we do things here?” Consistent and comprehensive training are the way to allow the healthcare team to speak with one voice.

Clear protocols and procedures create a consistent experience for the patient and client, delivering a “wow” factor.

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

Compliance Review Form

Packets Given: ________________________ Puppy/Kitten: ________________________

Dental: ________________________

Senior: ________________________

Name: ______________________________________________________________ Date: ­­­­­­­­­­________________ Age: ________________ Vaccine due dates: Rabies:

_____________

Last Weight/date: _____________

Distemper: _____________

Microchipped?

YES NO

Bordetella: _____________

Last Fecal:

_____________

Dental: _____________

FeLV:

HW Prevention:

Last Purchase Date: ___________________________________________________________________________

Last HWT: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Dose:

1

Food:

Recommendation: _____________________________________________________________________________

Product purchased: ____________________________________________________________________________

Date purchased: ____________________________________________________________________________

Labwork:

CBC/CP ______________________________________________________________________________________

CBC/MC ______________________________________________________________________________________

CBC __________________________________________________________________________________________

Other _________________________________________________________________________________________

T4 ____________________________________________________________________________________________

ERD __________________________________________________________________________________________

BP ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Glucose Curve ________________________________________________________________________________

Dental:

Recommended: ________________________________________________________________________________

Date done: ____________________________________________________________________________________

6

_____________

12

FELV/FIV Test:

_____________

If Split - # of other dogs: _____________

Medications: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Rechecks Needed: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Last Labwork: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Remarks from ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Questionnaires: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Efficient and effective recheck, recall, and reminder systems ensure necessary treatments, medications, and other medical management don’t fall through the cracks. Consistency builds compliance and client loyalty.

Step 4: Train some more Technicians must not only communicate to clients “how we do things here”, they must effectively communicate among themselves. Internal communication is at least as important as communication with the client! Effective internal and external communication hinges on clearly articulated and shared key practice messages. For instance, all veterinary patients need and deserve a specific nutritional recommendation every time they come into your practice. Over half of clients who actually receive a specific nutritional recommendation will remain compliant.

In addition, over 75% of clients want a follow-up inquiry call when their pet has been sick, and over 90% want to be reminded when the pet is due for examination, vaccination, or a medication refill.

You cannot over-train in communication!

Step 5: Get over your reluctance to ask people for money Even in the face of economic constraints, very few clients will refuse recommended health care for their pets based ONLY on cost. The vast majority want the

best health care for their pets. The current economic climate does demand an updated approach to recommendations.

Technicians must be able to communicate effectively the doctor-recommended care, and then participate in the discussion to help the client establish priorities in the delivery of that care. Effective technician communication also includes discussing treatment plans and financing options (like Care Credit®) with clients.

Earl Nightingale once said, “All the money you will ever have is currently in the hands of someone else.” One important consideration is to understand the importance of appropriate charges for quality veterinary care.

Step 6: Track compliance Use your practice management software to help you track compliance among your clients. What gets measured gets done, gets noticed, and stays “front of mind”.

Create reports to track medication refills and follow-up appointments. By making the process of tracking compliance easy, it is harder to fall back into old habits.

Step 7: Make compliance fun and get everyone involved One simple compliance enhancer is a monthly parasite prevention reminder call, email, or text. Our practice consolidates these contacts to the first of every month. Once clients say yes to this service, they hear from a team member within a

day or two of the first of every month to remind them to give their monthly parasite prevention. Parasite prevention is a huge area for improvement in compliance across the veterinary profession. The same strategy applies to ongoing, chronic use medications. Practice management software can generate a list of patients whose prescriptions should run out during a given week. This is an easy, noninvasive way to help clients remember to give medication, thus improving the pet’s quality of life.

Step 8: Commit to advocacy Veterinary practices want to provide high quality care. Clients want the best care possible for their pets. Veterinary technicians have more influence than they realize over compliance levels in the practice.

Any and all efforts put forth to improve compliance will be time and energy well spent. It is the veterinary technicians who can actually make the biggest impact by reinforcing the doctor’s recommendations, explaining the details of those recommendations, and then following through to support the client’s delivery of the prescribed care. Technicians should be extensions of the veterinarian. It is technicians who then link compassion, compliance, and quality of care – putting it all together for the client and for the patient. Step up and make things happen! It’s up to you.

Match the generic drug name to the trade name for these drugs used in veterinary medicine: Generic Name 1. Benazepril hydrochloride 2. Marbofloxacin 3. Propofol 4. S-adenosylmethionine 5. Praziquantel 6. Detomidine hydrochloride 7. Isoflurane 8. Xylazine 9. Ketoprofen 10. Fenbendazole

Trade Name a. Zentonil® b. Dormosedan® c. AErrane® d. Fortekor® e. Rompun® f. Rapinovet® g. Panacur® h. Zeniquin® i. Anafen® j. Droncit®

(Source: Compendium of Veterinary Products, 12th edition, North American Compendiums)

Answers: 1d, 2h, 3f, 4a, 5j, 6b, 7c, 8e, 9i, 10g

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TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

Vet Tech Turned Pig Farmer Appears in 2011 Faces of Farming Calendar

By Patricia Grotenhuis Pigs have captured the interest of Katherine Zurczak, a registered Veterinary Technician and city girl turned farmer.

Zurczak had her first encounter with pigs while studying to be a veterinary technician at Ridgetown College. She was quickly fascinated by her work with the animals, and after graduating in June of 2009, began working at Hog-Wild Farms Ltd. in Watford, in Lambton County.

“I took a summer job in Ridgetown’s pig barn. I knew I wouldn’t be happy working with cats and dogs after that. It had to be pigs,” says Zurczak.

Zurczak is the farrowing room technician at the farm, and uses her training as a veterinary technician to give the young animals the best possible care. Zurczak attends pork industry conferences whenever she can to be aware of new technologies. In November, Zurczak also attended EuroTier in Germany, the world’s leading exhibition of animal husbandry and management.

Her passion for pigs and agriculture helped Zurczak to be featured in the 2011 Faces of Farming calendar published by the Ontario Farm Animal Council. Zurczak has the honour of being the very first registered Veterinary Technician to ever appear in the calendar, which aims to help consumers learn about the people behind the food they eat. The calendar is mailed, as a complimentary gift from Ontario’s farmers to about 4,000 media, politicians, grocery stores and butcher shops each year.

“It’s great that the calendar puts faces to everyone who does these things,” says Zurczak, adding she often surprises people when they learn she works in a pig barn.

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

Being a veterinary technician helps Zurczak bring a high level of welfare to the animals on the farm. She finds it rewarding to use her training to better care for the young animals and to make sure the animals are comfortable and healthy.

whole new world, and you want to be part of it,” she says. Zurczak plans on staying in agriculture in the future, and says if she does eventually return to a more traditional role at a veterinary clinic, it would be working with large animals.

Zurczak is not your average farm employee, having been raised in Tilbury with no farm exposure. She enrolled in the veterinary technician program with plans to work at a small animal clinic, with no thoughts of farming. The more time she spent at Ridgetown College, though, the more she fell in love with agriculture.

“Everything I now do revolves around pigs.

Working with them is the best decision I’ve made,” Zurczak says.

“The farmers at school get you with their enthusiasm. You see it (agriculture) is a

Zurczak is also learning about the dairy industry, and helps on her boyfriend’s dairy farm in her spare time.

“My life is so different than I thought it would be, but I am so happy. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Zurczak.

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Animals with neurologic symptoms are critically ill patients that require immediate intervention including efficient triage and assessment, detailed history taking, effective client communication, and a detailed plan of care. All of these components can and should be managed by a technician under the supervision of a veterinarian. Efficient and effective triage, beginning with the initial telephone call, can provide both you and the veterinarian with valuable information to help prepare for the arrival of your patient. A detailed history and assessment can provide the veterinarian with the information needed to create a plan of care or referral recommendation. As technicians, it is our job to add to the plan of care by providing optimal nutrition, environmental enrichment, suitable safe rehabilitation exercises, pain management, bladder care, and appropriate safe housing, footwear, and slings. Being prepared for these patients and providing exceptional client communication and customer service is a team effort.

Are You Prepared?

Be Prepared...Mentally, Physically, and Emotionally Neurologic conditions are emergencies. It is important to remain calm and be prepared. Often these patients present seizuring, paralyzed, unable to ambulate, in extreme pain, covered in their own urine, feces, and vomit, drooling, or circling.

Even if your patient is a frequent visitor to your practice, be aware that they may be disoriented, painful, or aggressive.

Clients are often scared, stressed, abrupt, crying or in shock. Minimizing the stress on your patient and client by providing immediate, efficient, and quality service is most important. Prepare for these emergencies at staff meetings through role playing and go over these cases and experiences at rounds. Discuss the disease processes, patient care, and any areas that require improvement. These review sessions will develop team work

CE Article #3 Uh-Oh -They’re Neuro! NowWhat?!

Tools for Triage, Assessment and Hospitalization of the Neurologic Patient

and improve communication which will allow the entire team to be prepared to deal with these fragile patients and their families.

The Initial Call Prepare your customer service team with the knowledge of and a list of key words that indicate a ‘neurologic’ condition that requires immediate attention. Often clients call and describe paralysis or seizures saying that their pet has had a ‘stroke.’

Any reluctance to walk up stairs, jump up and down off furniture or in and out of the car can indicate spinal disease. Immediate assessment and intervention has a direct impact on the outcome of these cases. Stumbling, disorientation, circling, head pressing, tremors, shaking, seizures, inability to ambulate or use a limb can all indicate neurologic disease. These

patients also need to be assessed immediately. Develop a positive relationship with your customer service team and make yourself available to triage patients over the telephone as needed.

Supplies to Have Available Have your crash cart well stocked and easily accessible. Prepare for seizuring patients with IV catheter supplies, diazepam, blood collection supplies, fluids, and equipment for blood pressure and TPR. Make sure your scale is easy accessible and is covered with a non-slip surface.

Have supplies to treat patients exposed to toxins and emergency medicine and drug formulary references readily available. Be prepared for intubation and anesthesia.

Protect yourself by having muzzles, cat gloves, and a table on wheels available for safe transport. Have safe non-slip floor-

Jennifer Panko, RVT/CCRP is a Registered VeterinaryTechnician (Seneca 2005) and Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner, CCRP (University of Tennessee, 2006). Her clinical experience includes a variety of work in companion animal practice, canine rehabilitation, neurology and MRI service, equine practice, and wildlife rehabilitation. Jennifer has great enthusiasm for the developing field of animal physical rehabilitation and currently coordinates the rehabilitation service at The OVC Companion Animal Hospital located at The Hill’s Pet Nutrition Primary Healthcare Centre at the University of Guelph. Along with coordinating the rehabilitation service she provides support to students and veterinarians in all aspects of primary healthcare. She is a volunteer with CAAT (The Canadian Animal Assistance Team) and will be travelling to Carmacks, Yukon in July to participate in an animal wellness clinic. Jenn is also a volunteer therapeutic horseback riding instructor through CANTRA (The Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association) at Sunrise Therapeutic and Learning Centre. She shares her home with 3 cats, 3 dogs (two which use wheelchair carts) and a thoroughbred rescued from slaughter.

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ing or mats that are easily disinfected.

Have a private area for clients that has water, tissues, comfortable seating and a telephone available for their use.

Client Communication Client communication is the cornerstone to a successful practice and positive experience for your client. When clients are stressed or the patient is critical it can be in everyone’s best interest to remove the patient for a quick assessment by the clinician. Explain to your clients what you are doing and why and report back frequently on how their pet is doing.

Informed clients are happy clients. If possible, take a detailed history while the clinician is assessing the patient. Listen to their concerns and ask for clarification as required. Choose simple direct language and stress how much you care about them and their pet. Some clients need to see exactly what is happening with their pets. It is important to always have the treatment area tidy, organized, and prepared for clients at all times.

Remaining calm will keep your client, patient, and the entire team calm. This allows for the best patient care and client service experience possible. If referring to a specialist or emergency service, be sure to inform your client of all details and provide clear directions, instructions for parking and checking in their pet.

Provide the referral or emergency service with a detailed history and work-up.

Later, follow up with your client to make sure they understand what is happening with their pet and that they are pleased with the service they received from both you and the emergency or referral service.

This shows them you care and ensures they will remain loyal to your practice and that you are informed of what went on outside of your hospital.

Assessment TPR-’B’ The ‘B’ stands for blood pressure. Along with your TPR, become efficient at taking blood pressure readings using all types of equipment available in your hospital. This is valuable information and a key part of assessing vital signs. Trending blood pressure in patients with brain disease is an important monitoring tool.

Practice on healthy patients often and ensure that your equipment is function-

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ing properly and that you have a variety of cuff sizes available.

abnormalities and report immediately to the attending clinician.

History Ask clients to tell you what happened to their pet. This often provides more helpful information than asking direct questions. Clarify by taking key points from their history to get the information you need. “Tell me more about…. (the stroke, the flailing, the rolling eyes, the yelp while he was running, etc.)” can often provide you the details you would miss by using a checklist history format. Information about previous medical history, diet, medications, recent lifestyle changes, exposures to toxins, raccoons, other animals, and trauma are all important information. Being able to translate the client’s history into a concise history for your clinician is an important skill. Practice presenting detailed but brief case histories to your clinicians during all appointments.

This is an important routine to develop.

Gait Analysis Provide safe non-slip flooring or mats that are easily disinfected for gait analysis. Describe all gait abnormalities including lameness, ataxia, circumducting of limbs or dragging of limbs, ability to walk in a straight line, and difficulty circling or turning. Observe for proprioceptive deficits during ambulation. Ask the family what they have observed and the timeline of these observations.

Mentation Assess how your patient is doing. Assess their pain score and level of coherence or disorientation. Examine their eyes for nystagmus, Horner’s syndrome, anisocoria and other abnormalities. Exam their face and head for symmetry. Note presence of a head tilt or any lack of tone in facial features. Describe any observations of tremors or seizures. Choose a standard pain assessment scale that your entire practice uses to simplify medical records.

Ask your clients to describe the timeline of changes they have noted in their pet.

Record any abnormalities and report immediately to the attending clinician.

Hospitalization Providing Appropriate Housing and Supervision Have safe, appropriate padding for kennels and a variety of safe matting and flooring that is easily disinfected for both your kennels and patient walking areas.

Have kennels available in high traffic areas for constant supervision. Put bells on patients that are at risk for seizures to alert staff when a patient is seizuring. Post signs indicating ‘seizure watch’, ‘sling walk’, ‘neck pain’, ‘back pain’, and ‘must wear protective boots’ on kennel doors. Check your patients often, noting any abnormalities upon their medical charts and report slight changes to the attending clinician immediately.

Bladder Care Become skilled at bladder expression, placing urinary catheters, and urinary catheter care - all important technical skills. Storing urine bags up off the floor in a disinfected litter box designated for urinary catheter bag storage is an important infection control protocol. Measure volume and specific gravity of urine and record this on the medical chart every 4 hours or more frequently, if required. Use a mild chlorhexidene solution to wipe the urinary catheter starting at the insertion site and wiping away from the pa-

Posture Assess the patient’s ability to stand, their stance, and their ability to ambulate. Low head carriage, a head tilt, a hunched back, weight shifting, and proprioceptive deficits should all be described in the medical record. Examine all aspects of their paws for ulceration and scuffed toes which can indicate proprioceptive deficits or gait abnormalities. Ask owners how they perceive their pet and the Expressing bladders, placing urinary catheters, and urinary catheter care are timeline of these all important technical skills changes. Note any

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tient. Protect yourself by wearing gloves.

Cranberry capsules can be used to acidify urine. Submission of samples for urine cultures and sensitivity are important.

Submit the tip of the urinary catheter for culture and sensitivity after removing it.

Protective Footwear Providing your patients with safe footwear to improve traction and prevent ulcerationis an important standard of care.

I recommend Pawz dog boots (www. pawzdogboots.com), Ruffwear boots (www.ruffwear.com), and Therapaw boots (www.therapaw.com). All are available for purchase online.

Preventing Decubital Ulcers Patients that are unable to move themselves are at risk for decubital ulcers, also known as ‘bed sores’. Provide your patients with a variety of clean, thick, padded bedding. Alternate your patient from left to right lateral recumbency every four hours and note “flip sides” on their medical chart. Propping your patient up in sternal recumbency using pillows is appropriate as tolerated.

Providing Environmental Enrichment Patients that are hospitalized for long periods of time are at risk for depression and lethargy. Providing your patient with a window to look out, a fan for short periods, stuffed toys, or a change of scenery by moving them to a different area of your hospital can perk them up and help them through their recovery process. Alternating between high traffic areas and quiet areas can help keep your patients mentally stimulated.

They are Sick! FEED THEM! As technicians it is our job to make sure our patients are fed, healthy, and happy!

Make sure they are receiving adequate calories, taking into account that they are sick. When in doubt, contact a reputable veterinary-specific diet company and ask their advice. Hospitalized pets need food to give them the energy to get better, get moving, and get home to their families!

Become skilled at assisted feeding techniques and have a variety of highly palatable diet options available.

Stretching and Maintaining Range of Motion Patients that are immobile and not weight

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Lateral to Sternal to Sit

bearing are at risk for loss of muscle mass, loss of bone density, contracture of tendons and ligaments, and loss of range of motion. These patients require range of motion and stretching exercises 4 times daily with 10 repetitions of full extension and flexion of each joint, holding each stretch for 20 seconds. Key stretches for immobile patients include paw extension and abduction of hips. Development of contractures results in inability to ambulate.

Slings and Sling Walking A variety of slings can be made in your clinic or can be purchased. I prefer figure eight slings made out of 3” stockinette and slings made out of environmentally friendly grocery bags. Both are cost effective and washable. Sling walking is a great way for your patient to be provided with a safe way of walking and weight bearing.

Pain Management Assess your patients often and use a standardized pain score. Advocate for appropriate pain management for your patients and educate your entire team about the signs of pain. Note all observations in the medical record and trend signs of pain related to time of day, medication intervals, and activities. Update your knowledge of pain management protocols, techniques and products often. A great resource for pain management and information and certification is the IVAPM (The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management).

Slings

Get them UP, get them MOVING, get the HOME! Self-help Skills and Activities of Daily Living Encourage your patients to do as much as possible for themselves. Promoting independence increases the confidence and self esteem of your patient. Having patients that are unable to support themselves stand with assistance while eating and drinking will help them get stronger and is an excellent weight bearing and weight shifting exercise. Encouraging patients unable to ambulate to stretch and reach for kibble and cookies is a great early mobility exercise. For patients unaware of where their body is in space, place wet food on their paws or torso and encourage them to lick it off. Encourage these patients to be as mobile as possible while keeping them safe and pain-free.

Early mobilization exercises involve transitions.

1. Lay your patient on their side in lateral recumbency. Encourage them to move into sternal recumbency.

2. From sternal recumbency the next step is to move into a sitting position.

Assist them to bend their stifles if increased extensor tone is present or flexor tone is absent.

3. From sitting (with stifles bent!) teach your patient to move into a standing position.

4. From standing encourage them to walk.

In conclusion, technicians are the best people to provide care for neurologic and critically ill patients. Triage and assessment of these animals is a skill we can become proficient at and own. Providing optimal care, nutrition, environmental enrichment, suitable safe rehabilitation exercises, pain management, bladder care, and appropriate housing is our responsibility and what we do well. Being prepared for these patients is a team effort. Client communication and excellent customer service are key components to successful management of these cases!

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Investigate the provincial association’s web sites for details on other continuing education opportunities.

Current as of: June 2011

2011 Webinar Ticks, Disease and Risk Awareness in Canada If you were unable to attend Bayer HealthCare, Animal Health’s FREE webinar, Ticks, Disease and Risk Awareness in Canada, you can still access it at www.k9webinar.ca. Presented

by Dwight Bowman, MS, PhD, parasitologist, Cornell University.

Presentation topics include: • Tick awareness across Canada • How tick expansion affects your clients • The risks of Canine Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBD) like Lyme disease August 2, 2011 Rodenticides: It’s more than just Vitamin K! Presenters: Ahna Brutlag, DVM and Justine A. Lee, DVM, DACVECC This one hour lecture will review the 4 most common active ingredients found in mouse and rat poisons,

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including long-acting anticoagulants (LAACs), cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3), bromethalin, and phosphides. A review of decontamination, mechanism of action of each rodenticide, and treatment will be discussed.

Where to sign up: https://www3. gotomeeting.com/register/381974990 or http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/Doctors/ continuing-education-ce/ CE: 1 hour of RACE-approved CE October 2-5 International Conference on Communications in Veterinary Medicine Pillar & Post, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. A high energy communication boot camp for the whole veterinary practice team. ICCVM provides skills and ideas to put into practice immediately. An intimate and interactive opportunity to network and learn new perspectives from international speakers and delegates. www.iccvm.com 519.263.5050

October 30 – November 2, 2011 Antimicrobial Stewardship in Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine Conference Toronto Airport Marriott Hotel The conference is designed for the veterinary practice team members with an interest in resistance and in the sustainability of antimicrobial drugs.

Full details and program available at www.antimicrobialcanada.com November 1, 2011 Top 10 errors to avoid with your poisoned patients Presenters: Ahna Brutlag, DVM and Justine A. Lee, DVM, DACVECC This one hour lecture will review the top 10 most common errors seen with toxicology. Sign up: https://www3. gotomeeting.com/register/374192374 or http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/Doctors/ continuing-education-ce/

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CE Article #1: The Naked Mole-Rat 4. Their ocular biology differs from other 1. What are two distinctions of naked molerodents in that: rats from other rodents? a. They are able to see colours only when a. They are the only nearly hairless rodent above ground that live a long time b. They do not have eyes b. They are the only nearly hairless rodent that has c. They are virtually blind the same gestation period as laboratory mice d. They have the same vision as other rodents c. They are cold-blooded mammals that live in underground tunnels in Asia 5. A female naked mole-rat (find the false d. They are cold-blooded mammals that are statement): related to moles and rats; hence their name a. Can be a soldier b. Can be a nursemaid 2. Naked mole-rats are found: c. Can be the head of the family a. All over the world d. Can usually become fertile within the b. Throughout Eastern Africa established colony after becoming sexually c. Throughout Eastern Europe mature at approximately 2 months of age d. Throughout all of Africa 3. Their biology is very unique. What statement is most true? a. Size of the individual animal is dependent on their age and sex b. Their incisor teeth are like chopsticks, and are used for digging hard soils c. They are completely without any hair/fur on their entire body – hence, their name d. It is easy to sex adults, as the males have visible descending testes and a longer anogential distance than females

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6. A disperser naked mole-rat is: a. An individual that has been kicked out of the colony b. An individual that voluntarily leaves the original colony to set out on their own to establish their own c. An individual that leaves then returns after finding food d. An individual that guards the outermost entrances of the colony burrows

7. Naked mole-rats do not need to consume: a. Feces b. Sweet potatoes c. Water d. Moistened rodent diet 8. Juvenile naked mole-rats: a. Are separated into sexes after weaning b. Are precocial c. Are born one at a time d. Nurse from the queen only for 4 weeks 9. Conditions/diseases known to be found in naked mole-rats colonies: a. Include malocclusion b. Include Rat Parvovirus c. Can be found with the use of a sentinel animal d. Are all zoonotic 10. Some main uses in research include: a. Metabolism, pain, surgical module b. Pain, cancer, vitamin A metabolism c. Vitamin C metabolism, Parkinson’s disease, aging d. Pain, behaviour, infertility

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CE Article #2: Compassion & Compliance 1. Client compliance with medication delivery is really the client’s responsibility. a. True b. False 2. Veterinary practices face challenges which include: a. Decreased client visits b. Decreased client acceptance due to economic pressures c. Increased need to set priorities for clients in patient care d. All of the above 3. Clients’ first impressions are lasting.

Veterinary technicians can enhance first impressions by: a. Reviewing the medical record before the client arrives in order to review medication and feeding recommendations b. Knowing the practice’s standard operating procedures c. Listening carefully to client questions about treatment recommendations and answering completely d. All of the above

8. Linking compassion and compliance: 4. Improving compliance in a veterinary a. Involves all members of the veterinary practice: healthcare team a. Increases revenues b. Only involves direct patient care b. Helps clients follow recommendations c. Probably will not make a difference to c. Improves pet health most clients d. All of the above d. Is important only to the veterinarian 5. Improving compliance with veterinary 9. Compassion and compliance provide recommendations involves: a natural linkage. Advantages to the a. Relying on clients to “do their job” veterinarian of increased technician with the pet responsibilities include: b. Actually making a specific a. Increased veterinarian opportunity for recommendation with conviction strategic practice planning c. Focusing on all areas of compliance at b. Getting doctors to provide more dayonce to-day patient care like blood draws d. Tasks too challenging for most and catheter placement veterinary practices c. Improved doctor/practice revenues d. a & c 6. Training of both veterinary teams and clients is critical to successfully 10. Technicians should accept/learn improving compliance. increased responsibilities including: a. True a. Improving inventory management b. False and control b. Organizing and maintaining exam 7. Compliance in veterinary medicine is rooms and treatments areas generally pretty good. c. One-to-one client education a. True d. All of the above b. False

CE Article #3: Uh-Oh - They’re Neuro!

1. It is important to submit the tip of uri- 5. To prevent decubital ulcers it is recom- 8. The order of transitions from lateral nary catheters for culture and sensitivmended that you provide your patient recumbency to walking is: ity after removing the catheter. with thick padded bedding and change a. lateral to sit to walk a. True their position (“flip sides”) every: b. sit to stand to walk b. False a. 24 hours c. lateral to sternal, sternal to sit, sit to b. 4 hours stand, stand to walk 3. It is important to wear gloves when c. 6 hours d. lateral to stand to walk handling urine and urinary catheters. d. 12 hours a. True 9. Regarding pain management best b. False 6. Bladder care should happen every four practices include: hours and includes: a. Using a standardized pain scoring 3. Any reluctance to walk up stairs, jump a. Storing the urine bag up off the floor system in your hospital up/off furniture or in and out of the car b. Using a mild chlorhexidine solution b. Trending signs of pain related to time can indicate spinal disease. Immediate starting at the insertion site wipe away of day, medication intervals, and assessment and intervention has a direct from the patient activities impact on the outcome of these cases. c. Measuring volume and specific gravity c. Frequently updating the medical a. True d. Culture and sensitivity testing teams’ knowledge of pain manageb. False e. None of the above ment protocols, products and techf. All of the above niques 4. Stumbling, disorientation, circling, head d. All of the above pressing, tremors, shaking, seizures, 7. Client communication and excellent e. None of the above inability to ambulate or use a limb can customer service are key components to all indicate neurologic disease. These successful management of these cases!

10. The timeline of mentation, posture, patients need to be assessed immediately. a. True and gait changes is irrelevant. a. True b. False a. True b. False b. False 26

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Emetic Agents for the Small Animal Poisoned Patient

by Amanda Poldoski, DVM, Veterinarian at Pet Poison Helpline & Justine A. Lee, DVM, DACVECC, Associate Director of Veterinary Services at Pet Poison Helpline Induction of emesis is generally the first step in gastrointestinal (GI) decontamination following ingestion of a potential toxicant. However, before inducing or recommending emesis, several factors must be considered including: time since ingestion, underlying medical problems, symptoms, and type of toxicant. Finally, only appropriate emetics should be used. Clients should be appropriately educated on which emetics to use at home, and to only induce emesis following recommendations from veterinary professionals or an animal poison control helpline. Pet owners may find and use inappropriate information found on the Internet regarding use of numerous “antidotes” and “emetics.” Rumors of using grease, clay, dirt, vegetable oil, egg whites, mustard, milk, and burned toast have all been reported by pet owners as antidotes or emetics. These are never recommended!

Currently, there are no “at home” emetic agents recommended for cats, and cats should be referred to their veterinarian for emesis induction. For dogs, the only “home” emetic agent is hydrogen peroxide. Other agents that have been previously recommended for dogs include table salt (sodium chloride), 7% syrup of ipecac, and liquid dish detergent. However, these latter emetics are no longer considered the standard of care and are not recommended as emetic agents. With salt, hypernatremia, persistent emesis, and hematemesis may be seen. Syrup of ipecac is no longer recommended in both human and veterinary medicine due to delayed effect or lack of effectiveness, protracted emesis, hematemesis, depression, diarrhea, and potential cardiotoxic effects. Liquid dish detergent is not recommended as it is not a reliable emetic, but may be more benign than salt or syrup of ipecac. In many cases, it is often more efficient to seek veterinary attention immediately rather than having a pet owner attempting to induce emesis at home.

Emetic Agents for the Canine Patient Currently, 3% hydrogen peroxide (H202) is the only “at home” emetic agent recommended for use in dogs. Higher concentrations of H202 should not be used, as it can

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cause severe gastritis or corrosive injury to the GI tract. Hydrogen peroxide is thought to act as an emetic by causing local irritation to the oropharynx and gastric lining.

In dogs, the dose of H202is 1-5 ml/kg orally, not to exceed 50 mls/dog.1,2 If the first dose does not result in emesis, a second dose may be given 10 minutes later.1 Hydrogen peroxide is generally safe, but more than two doses should not be administered at home prior to seeking veterinary attention.

Apomorphine, a centrally-acting emetic that acts by stimulating the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CRTZ) in the brain, is a very effective emetic in dogs. Dosing in dogs is 0.02-0.04 mg/kg intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM), or by direct application of a tablet to the subconjunctival sac. Injectable apomorphine may also be administered subcutaneously (SQ); however, this is not currently recommended due to delayed onset of action and prolonged duration of effect. If subconjunctival apormorphine is used, thorough flushing of the subconjunctival sac should be performed after emesis induction, or protracted vomiting may occur. Use of apomorphine should be considered carefully with ingestion of drugs that may cause significant respiratory or further central nervous system (CNS) depression.

Emetic Agents for the Feline Patient Use of H202 in cats is not recommended as it is generally ineffective and may result in moderate to severe hemorrhagic gastritis. Cats ingesting a toxic substance should be sent directly to a veterinarian for emesis induction.

Apomorphine is not recommended in cats as it is ineffective and may cause CNS stimulation. Xylazine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, is another centrally-acting emetic that is generally reserved as an emetic agent only for cats (Xylazine does not reliably induce emesis in dogs, and is not recommended). Dosing in cats is 0.44 mg/kg, IM or SQ. Cats should be monitored carefully for adverse effects from xylazine, including profound CNS depression, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. Xylazine should not be used in cats that have ingested medications (e.g., other alpha-adrenergic ago-

nist drugs) or products that may result in compounding of bradycardia, respiratory depression, sedation or CNS depression symptoms. Yohimbine or atipamezole can be used to reverse the effects of xylazine once productive emesis has occurred.

Conclusion The decision to induce emesis in the poisoned patient should be considered carefully by veterinary professionals. Recognizing indications and contraindications for emesis induction, appropriate emetic agents and proper dosing is imperative to safe and effective GI decontamination.

About Pet Poison Helpline Pet Poison Helpline, a division of SafetyCall International, is a 24/7 animal poison control service based out of Minneapolis, MN. Pet Poison Helpline is available for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff can provide treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $35 per incident includes unlimited follow-up consultations. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-2136680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

references > 1. Lee JA. Decontamination and detoxification of the poisoned patient. In Oswiler GD, Hovda HR, Brutlag AG, Lee JA, eds. Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult Clinical Companion: Small Animal Toxicology, 1st ed. Ames: Wiley-Blackwell, 2011, pp. 19.

2. Peterson ME. Toxicological decontamination. In Peterson ME, Talcott PA, eds.

Small Animal Toxicology, 2nd ed. St. Louis: Elsevier Saunders, 2006, pp. 127-141.

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10483 (May 11, 2011) Adoption Counsellor Responsible for adoptions and managing the shelter when the manager is away. For full details please visit our website: burlingtonhumane.ca 10480 (May 10, 2011) Reception Full-time reception position in small animal/exotic AAHA practice.

Fax 519-650-3322, Email mike.sha@live.ca 10477 (May 4, 2011) Breeder Territory Sales Representative Contact Heather Lawson at HLawson@RoyalCanin.ca for more information 10463 (Apr 20, 2011) Technician Part-time Technician required for busy practice. Saturday/Sunday or Sunday/ Monday shifts preferred but let us know your availability! Full Idexx laboratory, Digital Xray, patient treatments, surgical assisting and patient visits. Contact Bonnie Machin at 905-826-1881 or email bonnie.machin@petvethospitals.ca 10441 (Apr 6, 2011) RVT Required!

Birchmount Veterinary Clinic is seeking an RVT to join our team on a full-time basis. At Birchmount, we offer a variety of services including: small animal primary veterinary care, a pet resort, daycare facilities and spa services for your pet. This will be a rewarding and challenging opportunity for individuals who thrive in a fast paced environment working along side a very supportive team. If you are

a passionate, energetic individual who is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service with previous working experience, this is the opportunity for you. We offer competitive compensation, extended health and dental benefits, uniform allowance, generous continuing education allowance, membership dues and the chance to truly utilize your skills and training.

This position will involve working 38.5 hours per week including evenings until 7 pm and weekends. In addition the successful candidate must be available for an on-call rotation. If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a cover letter and resume to: Stacey Kew, Hospital Coordinator, Email: abagael@me.com, Fax: (416) 757-7083 10436 (Apr 4, 2011) Veterinarian Champion Petfoods LP is seeking an energetic, positively motivated, qualified and career minded individual to fill their opening for a Veterinarian.

This position will be responsible for; accurately supporting our customer care department, and providing professional consultation on health and nutrition-related topics. Reporting to the Director of Nutrition, Research and Product Development, the Veterinarian will continually seek to develop and support the world’s best pet foods. Champion Petfoods Inc. offers a competitive compensation packages, an exciting work environment, and career advancement opportunities. Qualified applicants should submit their Resume to Champion Petfoods via email at: careers@championpetfoods.comor via fax to 780-939-6858, attn: Human Resources.

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10434 (Apr 4, 2011) Emergency RVT Well-established 24-hour hospital in S.W. Mississauga, fully renovated, high quality service. We require a competent RVT for nights, weekend & holiday day and night, full- or part-time shifts. Focus on happy clients, healthy pets and a great work atmosphere. Please send resume to clarksonvet@rogers.com

10433 (Apr 2, 2011) Veterinary Technician We are looking for a talented, personable cat person to join our bright, friendly, and supportive team in providing excellent care to our patients and clients. Full- or part-time, flexible schedule but will require some evenings and Saturday mornings. No on call. Please forward resumes via email to clientservices@kingstcathospital.com

Fussy Eater Fix

Purchase bulk-size chicken breast from a local warehouse club, boil it and shred it into bitesize pieces. Package the chicken into small resealable bags and store them in the freezer.

The next time you have a hospitalized patient or boarder that isn’t eating, thaw a frozen package of chicken and warm it in the microwave. Serve it as-is, or mix it into the pet’s regular food.The chicken will often get a fussy patient to eat again and having the bags premade in individual portions is convenient and waste-free. (veterinarymedicine.com)

Save Time

Save time in the long run by pre-counting commonly prescribed drugs during your downtime. Use temporary labeling to ensure safety, and then when a client fills an order, affix the appropriate labeling to finish the job. (Firstline.com)

Submitting Articles to TECHNEWS We welcome your participation in the quarterly magazine, TECHNEWS, distributed nationally. In Ontario, articles submitted receive 2 C.E. credits and articles chosen for printing receive an additional 2 C.E. credits. Please contact your Provincial Association Registrar to determine your provincial C.E. values.

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TECHNEWS is looking for articles from technicians that present current news and information. Articles should contain information on areas of interest to technicians,

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

such as client education, clinical situations, lab procedures, nursing skills, neonatal care, research, exotics, large animal medicine, emergency procedures or anything else you feel is important to the continuing education of technicians.

Articles received will be reviewed by the TECHNEWS editors and editorial committee. Controversial subjects will be prefaced by editorial commentary. The TECHNEWS editor reserves the right to make revisions in text when appropriate. Manuscripts may be edited for content, clarity and style. Feel free to contact the editorial office to ensure availability of a particular topic.

Editorial correspondence for TECHNEWS: O.A.V.T. Editorial Submissions c/oThe Bayley Group P.O. Box 39 Hensall, ON N0M 1X0 Phone - 519-263-5050 Fax - 519-263-2936 Email - cass@bayleygroup.com

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China - China now counts al-

Global news

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most a million registered pet dogs, and countless others fly beneath the government’s radar. The popularity of dogs is a hot phenomenon that shows little sign of ending. Dog swimming pools, theaters for people and their pets, and dog-friendly bars are popping up, along with pet-friendly stores and canine social networks. The pets serve as stress relief and as substitute children in a society where one child is still the rule. Dogs are also considered status symbols in the new China: Walking around with a Tibetan Mastiff is a way of telling everyone that you have disposable income, and lots of it.

(New York Times)

South Africa - Worst rhino poaching in decade: conservationists - Africa’s rhinos face their worst poaching crisis in decades with organized crime syndicates killing more than 800 in the past three years alone, according to a global network of conservationists. The two horns on each of the plant-eating, poor-sighted African rhinoceros sell like gold on the black market. Each pound can fetch tens of thousands of dollars in southeast Asia where the horns are thought to have medicinal value. The Swiss-based International Union for Conservation of Nature said poaching of the two different species of African rhinos is on the rise in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya, due to well-equipped and sophisticated crime gangs. South Africa alone lost 333 rhinos last year and so far this year has lost more than 70, according to IUCN, the world’s oldest and largest environmental network. It said most rhino horns leaving Africa are ground into medicine for Asian markets, and Vietnamese are

repeatedly implicated in South Africa’s poaching trade. Conservationists say the remaining 24,990 rhinos on the African continent might start to decline again in numbers unless the rapid escalation in poaching in recent years can be halted.

At last count there were 4,840 black rhinos and 20,150 white rhinos, an improvement from 2007 when there were 4,240 black rhinos and 17,500 white rhinos. Although good biological management and anti-poaching efforts have led to modest population gains for both species of African rhino, there is still concern about the increasing involvement of organized criminal poaching networks.

Poachers are using helicopters, nightvision goggles and high-powered rifles to hunt and kill rhinos – equipment even African wildlife officials can’t afford. (Associated Press) US - Delta Air Lines bans bulldogs from flights - Atlanta, GA - Bulldogs are on the no-fly list at Delta, after a report last year by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) highlighted a higher incidence of in-flight deaths for the breed. In 2010, a total of 39 animal deaths were reported by all airlines, with Delta reporting 16 incidents, followed

by American Airlines and Continental with six deaths each. Necropsy reports revealed food aspiration or asphyxia as the primary causes of death in those cases. Half of all dogs that died on commercial flights from 2005 to 2009 were short-nosed breeds. The DOT requires airlines to file monthly reports on animal deaths and injuries. Over the reporting period, a total of 122 dog deaths were filed, including 25 English Bulldogs and 11 Pugs. Breathing problems and other genetic factors are believed to contribute to the higher mortality rates of these breeds on flights. Delta, in addition to its bulldog ban, will stop transporting other short-nosed breeds and cats when temperatures exceed 75 degrees.

US - Social media used to help pet rescue following tornadoes - What a great idea! A Facebook page set up to reunite lost animals with their owners after deadly storms that ripped through Alabama and the rest of the Deep South April 27 has more than 32,000 supporters by May 12, 2011. The site, titled Animals Lost & Found from the Tornadoes in Alabama

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on 4/27/11, was set up by a group of Alabama pet rescuers. It is acting as a central location for people who have lost or found animals or who want to volunteer to foster displaced animals.

There is also information about veterinarians providing free services in storm-damaged areas. The group is also accepting donations for Have a Heart Animal Rescue and Adoption to help with medical expenses for injured animals, boarding and food.

The Greater Birmingham Humane Society has also been listing lost pets on its web site and has tips for how to best search for a lost pet. (veterinary advantage weekly news)

Super-big huggable protection against fleas and other parasites.

Tasty little tablet.

Populations of Chinstrap penguins are falling (iStock)

Dogs need protection from intestinal worms and heartworm, along with the one enemy their owners can actually see: fleas. Sentinel Flavor Tabs tastes like a treat making it easy for clients to administer with no residue. In a recent survey, 90.16% of topical users preferred Sentinel Flavor Tabs for ease of administration.1 That leads to better compliance. Recommend Sentinel; it’s hugsafe.

For more information about Sentinel call 1-800-387-6325 or visit www.doghug.ca.

Antarctica - Penguins starving due to climate change - Falling populations of penguins in the West Antarctic Peninsula are being driven by a reduction of their main food source, Antarctic krill, according to a new study. As a result, species such as the chinstrap penguin are much more vulnerable to a warming climate than previously thought, say U.S. scientists from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The scientists have been monitoring colonies of chinstrap penguins (Pygoscelis Antarctica) and the Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) in the West Antarctic Peninsula and Scotia Sea for thirty years. Over this time they noted that populations of both species declined by more than 50 per cent, with fewer juveniles surviving and returning to breed. The scientists suggest that changes in penguin populations are linked with changes to their main food source, Antarctic krill (Euphasia superba) due to reduced winter sea ice coverage and an increase in interspecies competition. Penguins developed an appetite for krill as their food of choice when other krill-eating predators such as whales and fur seals were heavily hunted. During this time penguin populations flourished. But as the populations of whales and fur seals have recovered over the last three decades, the numbers of penguins have dropped as they compete for krill. At the same time, the West Antarctic Peninsula has seen a rapid decline in winter sea ice, necessary for krill to thrive. Krill density in this region has declined by about 80 per cent from the mid 1970s. (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

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1. Data on file. Research conducted for Novartis Animal Health Canada Inc. 2010 ® Sentinel is a registered trademark of Novartis Animal Health Canada Inc. © 2011 Novartis Animal Health Canada Inc. ® Flavor Tabs is a registered trademark of Novartis AG – Novartis Animal Health Canada Inc., licensed user.

TECHNEWS Subscriptions If you are not currently receiving all four TECHNEWS annual issues delivered direct to your door, now is the time to get your subscription! Year-round, issues are full of outstanding continuing education articles and quizzes, interesting personal stories and practical ideas for your work. $39.55 per year includes shipping and is payable by credit card or cheque to ‘OAVT’.

Sign up for your subscription today see Page 25 of this issue!

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P H A R M AC O L O G Y C O L U M N

by Dr. Wendy Brooks, DVM, DipABVP (Educational Director, Veterinary Par tner.com)

cortisone, which in turn leads to symptoms associated with Cushing’s disease.

Treatment has traditionally centered on suppressing adrenal gland production and release of cortisone but this approach has been fraught with potential for side effects. L-Deprenyl has allowed for a new approach by suppressing the pituitary gland directly.

• Name: L-Deprenyl Hydrochloride (Anipryl, Eldepryl, Carbex) • Brand Name: Anipryl, Eldepryl, Carbex • Available in: 2 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg tablets, sold in 30 tablet blister packs Background In dogs, there are two uses for L-Deprenyl, also known as selegiline hydrochloride: the treatment of an adrenal hormone imbalance called Cushing’s disease, and the treatment of senile mental deterioration (canine cognitive dysfunction).

We will discuss the applications in the treatment of Cushing’s disease first as this is what L-Deprenyl was first approved for in dogs.

Cushing’s Disease Cushing’s Disease is the insidious debilitating hormone imbalance that results when the adrenal glands overproduce cortisone. Most cases (85%) occur as the result of a tumour in the pituitary gland that produces a stimulatory hormone called ACTH. This hormone leads both adrenal glands to enlarge and overproduce

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Monoamine oxidases are enzymes we have in two areas: the brain (monoamine oxidase inhibitor -B), and in the liver/GI tract (monoamine oxidase inhibitor-A). In the brain, these enzymes break down used neurotransmitters, the chemicals that enable nerves to communicate. One of these neurotransmitters is called dopamine and one of its functions is the regulation, specifically the inhibition, of ACTH. By using a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor, dopamine is not broken down; instead, it persists and provides extra inhibition of ACTH. L-Deprenyl further acts on the enzymes that produce dopamine so that more dopamine is produced.

L-Deprenyl is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor specific to the brain’s monoamine oxidases; those of the liver/GI tract are not affected. This effect on ACTH inhibition allows for the treatment of pituitary dependent Cushing’s disease in dogs as well as the treatment of Parkinson’s syndrome in humans.

There is an important caveat in the use of L-Deprenyl for the treatment of Cush-

ing’s disease. While 85% of dogs with Cushing’s disease have pituitary tumours, only about 20% of them have tumours in the pars intermedia of the pituitary gland, which is where ACTH is dependent on dopamine. This means that if a dog with pituitary Cushing’s disease is not one of this 20%, the only effect L-Deprenyl will have will be a general stimulatory effect from its metabolites (see below).

Because of the unique way that L-Deprenyl works as treatment for Cushing’s disease, the usual tests needed or used to monitor response to therapy will not be relevant. Assessment of effect is solely by the owner’s perception of improvement in symptoms. There is no way to determine prior to treatment if a dog has a pars intermedia tumour that is likely to respond to L-Deprenyl but it is generally clear if a dog is responding or not within 3 months of therapy.

An additional effect of L-Deprenyl stems from an interaction with brain enzymes that destroy free radicals. By helping to rid the brain of destructive free radicals, L-Deprenyl has proven useful in treating Parkinson’s disease in humans as well as canine cognitive dysfunction (senility)

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in dogs. L-Deprenyl was approved in the dog first for the treatment of Cushing’s disease but has since been approved for the treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Pet owners have long been frustrated by age-related behaviour problems involving loss of house-training, apparent memory loss or disorientation, sleep disturbances involving either waking at the wrong time or sleeping unusually deeply, and loss of interest in social activities with the family. Such behaviour changes are often written off as being normal aging. One study at the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine demonstrates how common these observations are: out of 69 dogs participating, 32% of 11-year old dogs were affected by this syndrome and that 100% of dogs 16 years of age older were affected.

Still, the high frequency with which the syndrome is seen in older dogs does not make it normal. Other studies have shown that dogs affected by this syndrome show deposition of a protein called amyloid in their brains in patterns similar to the amyloid plaques found in the brains of humans with Alzheimer’s disease.

Cognitive dysfunction is associated with depletion of dopamine, the neurotransmitter mentioned above.

As described above, L-Deprenyl also helps prolong dopamine activity, which may account for part of its efficacy in treating cognitive dysfunction. Further, dopamine breakdown results in harmful biochemicals known as free radicals.

The use of L-Deprenyl also helps reduce amounts of free radicals in the brain.

How this Medication is Used Dosing protocols are different depending on whether one is treating Cushing’s disease or cognitive dysfunction syndrome. In treating Cushing’s disease, L-Deprenyl is given once a day for two months. If no response is seen in this time, the dose is doubled for an additional month. If still no response is seen, another form of treatment should

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be pursued. Approximately 20% of dogs with Cushing’s disease will respond to L-Deprenyl.

A lower dose of L-Deprenyl is used in the treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction. Of the 69 dogs mentioned above, approximately 76% showed improvement on L-Deprenyl after one month of therapy. Some dogs improve in the first few days or weeks, some dogs do not show improvement until the second month. Often dogs would continue to improve during the first three months. If no improvement is seen after the first month, the dose is doubled for an additional one month before reevaluating the patient for an underlying medical problem that could be causing the behaviour problems.

Side Effects • With previous treatments for Cushing’s syndrome, monitoring tests to avoid side effects were central to treatment. The beauty of treating Cushing’s syndrome with L-Deprenyl is that no monitoring tests are necessary because adrenal function is not directly altered.

• There is a 5% incidence of unacceptable side effects with L-Deprenyl treatment. These side effects include: vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, itchy skin, tremors, drooling, listlessness, disorientation, diminished hearing, or restlessness.

• When three times the recommended dose was used in dogs, salivation, weight loss, panting, dehydration, pacing, and poor pupil response to light were observed. Obviously these signs should not be observed with normal use of the medication.

• It should be noted that after oral administration, L-Deprenyl is processed by the liver to produce amphetamine and methamphetamine, both of which are stimulants.

Interactions with other Drugs • L-Deprenyl should not be used concurrently with amitraz (Mitaban

dips, Preventic tick collars, or Promeris). Other forms of parasite control should be pursued as needed.

• L-Deprenyl should not be used with fluoxetine. Because of fluoxetine’s ability to last a long time in the body, a 5-week period is recommended between discontinuing fluoxetine and initiating L-Deprenyl. Other psychoactive drugs not compatible with MAO-B inhibitors include mirtazapine, amitriptyline, and clomipramine.

• L-Deprenyl should not be used in combination with phenylpropanolamine. It is important to discontinue phenylpropanolamine for at least 2 weeks before beginning L-Deprenyl. High blood pressure can result from the use of these two medications together.

• In humans, dangerous drug interactions have occurred when L-Deprenyl has been combined with meperidine (Demerol®). It is unclear how dangerous other narcotics might be, so it is recommended that no narcotic be combined with L-Deprenyl, especially not meperidine.

Learn more about canine cognitive dysfunction, visit www.anipryl.com

© 2011 Dr Wendy Brooks, DVM, DipABVP and VIN, All rights reserved Editor’s Note: Reprinted courtesy of Veterinary Information Network (VIN).

VIN (www.vin.com) is the largest online veterinary community, information source and CE provider. The VIN community is the online home for over 30,000 colleagues worldwide. VIN supports the Veterinary Support Personnel Network (VSPN.org); a FREE online community, information source for veterinary support staff. VSPN offers a wide range of interactive practical CE courses for veterinary support staff - for a small fee. Visit www.vspn.org for more information.

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By Net tie Barr | Canadian Natural Horsemanship Inc. | www.canadiannaturalhorsemanship.c om

After we teach the principle of circling or longeing, we put purpose to these principles and can send a horse while doing as little as possible, “asking” this horse to go to the left or the right around us.

When we put purpose to circling, we may ask the horse to go around us to the left or the right over a barrel, over a tarp, or even through water.

Round penning and longeing are both very popular techniques in horsemanship. When used effectively, you create an understanding between both

both techniques and their purpose when used properly.

horse and handler at different gaits, and distances challenging the relationship.

Unfortunately, like many techniques it has been over-used and abused. To determine if a technique is benefiting a horse, we must determine if it is building mind in the horse or just endurance.

Many people round pen or longe to take the edge off of their horse running them “mindlessly”. The problem being that if you longe your horse for 10 minutes this week “mindlessly”, next week you must do this for 20 minutes, the week after 40, then 80 minutes, etc., building only endurance in your horse rather than mind and understanding. So lets take a look at

Round Penning The purpose of round penning is to allow the horse to learn his/her responsibilities in a safe environment, without a mixed message from the handler pulling on the lead shank creating pressure on the halter.

The first objective of round penning is to obtain control over the horse’s feet. If we cannot control the feet, we cannot effectively build mind and understanding with the horse. We obtain this control by causing the horse to go left, right, changing directions and gait. When we have this understanding, we then create a “draw” where the horse faces us and comes in for a rest. This creates an understanding that we are the safe, comfortable place to be.

Horses base everything on 2 critical things: Things to run away from, and

Advanced circling - sending over barrels

things not to run away from. It really is that simple, due to the fact that a horse is a flight animal, but will fight if pushed too far. So, if we create the understanding that we are the safe, comfortable place to be, the horse will find relaxation and the desire to remain with us. We want to establish that we are the “lead” horse, rather than the “dominant” horse. Think about this term. In your line of work would you like to be referred to as the “dominant” person in your office or the “lead” person in your office. My point is that leadership is based on good positive, progressive interactions where we may be required to be assertive, but not aggressive. Dominance can at times have a negative connotation, meaning we are not being a leader but controlling, maybe through fear or intimidation. This is not a solid foundation for respect with any man or beast.

Longeing, also referred to as circling on line, when used effectively helps the horse

Nettie Barr is a passionate force in the horse industry. As owner and founder of Canadian Natural Horsemanship Inc., Nettie has been conducting clinics since 1999 and has developed her own philosophy, style and teaching methodologies. Nettie is well known for her personal approach to setting up both horse and handler for success with lasting results. Nettie is a member of the many horse associations, a former board member of the Alberta Equestrian Federation; a Registered Paint Horse and Azteca Breeder; and a member of several curricular focus groups for N.A.I.T. (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology), Grande Prairie Regional College Fairview and the Green Certificate Program.

Nettie is a recognized Horse Specialist that has served as a program developer, consultant, clinician, and a guest speaker for various clubs, businesses, organizations, colleges and universities. Nettie has a gift for reaching people of all ages with her positive, passionate approach that empowers students, instructors, professionals, and horse enthusiasts with a deeper knowledge of the equine. Nettie is expanding into the area of motivation and leadership presentations drawing parallels between natural horsemanship and leadership in the work force.

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understand his/her responsibilities when “attached” to me. It also teaches the horse to respond to a feel, learning to give to pressure, finding the end of the line. Also, it helps me check out the horse in movement under saddle to ensure that all is well prior to mounting. We must obtain this understanding on both the left and right side of the horse. When circling on line, I do not use this technique to run the horse to take the edge off.

Rather I use it as a means of communicating by “asking” the horse to go left and right, yield and face me, at walk/trot and canter in the form of a conversation. I want to check out if the horse is “tuned in” to me or just running around in a reactive way. I evaluate the send, the movement and return, based on whether the horse is responding or reacting to me. Is the horse focused on me or distracted? I want the horse focused in on me. I also want to check if the horse is softening rather than leaning, creating a soft feel. Think about training as having a conversation through body language rather than just moving their feet and running around in a reactive way. We want the horse to become focused on us in a responsive manner.

In summary, our objective with horses is to build mind. “Build mind and the body will follow”, is a saying that I often use. There is no mystery to good horsemanship. The “secret” to good horsemanship is the ability to control the movement of the horse and reward the slightest try. We want to develop respect, confidence and leadership with our horses. Our basis for training should follow the principles of having a conversation rather than using force; being assertive rather than aggressive. There should be building blocks to bring the horse to the level of understanding that you are building towards. It should be based on principles of safety, for both you and the horse, building to responses and acceptance.

Horsemanship is often portrayed as something mystical. My goal is to take the “mystery” out of horsemanship replacing it with more “common sense” strategies. Good horsemanship principles should be based on how horses communicate with one another. Take into consideration that the horse also has a confidence and dignity level. We do not want to take the try out of the horse.

To quote Theodore Roosevelt, “Horses don’t care how much you know, till they know how much you care”.

I wish you many enjoyable and safe encounters with horses.

Pets Leave Carbon Paw Prints A New Zealand study reports that more than two acres of land are needed to provide the meat and grain necessary to sustain a medium-sized dog for its lifetime.The researchers from Victoria University of Wellington also showed other findings about our pets’ impact on the planet:

• Cats kill a lot of wildlife. Worldwide estimates put yearly kitty-induced death tolls into the billions.

• Along the California coast, sea otters are experiencing an epidemic caused by the bacteria Toxoplasma gondii, found in cat feces. Cat owners flushing stool and litter down the toilet has created a situation where T. gondii is collecting in rivers and estuaries. (firstline.com)

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An Indian tiger looks on from a camouflaged cover of strawgrass in Ranthambhore National Park near Rajasthan, India. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP)

Tiger Census Yields Good News, and a Warning

India’s latest tiger census shows an increase in the numbers of the endangered big cat, but threats to their roaming territory could reverse those gains.

The census counted at least 1,706 tigers in forests across the country, about 300 more than four years ago. The increase is good news but caution is necessary against any complacency in efforts to save the iconic animal from extinction. Wildlife experts who conducted the census said tiger corridors, which are the routes frequently used by the big cats to move from one reserve to another, had declined sharply as huge power projects, mining and roads cut into their habitats. But with India pushing ahead with its economic agenda, the threat to the tiger increases as the government tries to juggle the competing claims of development and wildlife conservation. Unlike earlier tiger estimates, when pugmarks [footprints] of individual tigers were counted, this time round conservationists used hidden cameras and DNA tests to count the cats in 17 Indian states where tigers live in the wild.

A century ago, about 100,000 tigers roamed India’s forests. Shrinking habitats have brought the wild cats into conflict with farmers who live near tiger reserves and poachers who kill them for pelts and body parts. The release of the latest tiger census results coincided with the start of a three-day international conference to follow up on progress made at the 2010 St. Petersburg summit of 13 countries that are home to wild tigers. At the New Delhi meeting, countries presented strategies to implement the Global Tiger Recovery Program adopted in St. Petersburg which includes plans to double the tiger population by 2022, crack down on poaching and on trading in illicit tiger pelts and body parts. (Associated Press)

35

Did You Know?

Walking a Mile in Their Paws

Dog owners walk an average of 23,000 miles with their pet during the animal’s lifetime. A study commissioned by the U.K. insurance company Esure reports that the average owner walks his or her dog for eight hours and 54 minutes per week, going 36 miles per week, which adds up to more than 1,800 miles per year and nearly equals the circumference of the Earth in the average canine life span of 12.8 years. They don’t go far racking up the miles: 41 percent of dog owners walk with their pets around the neighborhood, while 42 percent choose a local park to walk their dogs. And they don’t all go willingly, with 15 percent of owners saying walking the dog was the worst part of owning one. (veterinarypartner.com)

Dog owners more likely to attain physical activity targets

Researchers from Michigan State University found that individuals who had a dog and walked it had a 34 percent higher chance of attaining federal physical activity targets. Their result findings have been published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health.

The authors say their findings suggest that promoting dog ownership and walking your dog could have a significant impact on improving the general health of Americans. In the United States, less that half the population meets recommended levels of free-time physical activity. (veterinary advantage weekly news)

Sea otters have purple bones?

Ingesting purple sea urchins stains their bones this color.

(ASPCA APCC e-newsletter)

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Hill’s Japan donates pet food for distressed dogs and cats Hill’s Pet Nutrition is providing aid and support to people impacted by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. In coordination with its parent company Colgate-Palmolive, Hill’s Japan already donated several tons of pet food to provide nutrition to pets through organizations already on the ground. Additionally, Colgate-Palmolive donated $250,000 to the American Red Cross and will match donations made by employees to the Red Cross and Save the Children. In addition to financial support to charities aiding people, Hill’s is working with organizations in Japan that can help cats and dogs in distress.” (veterinary advantage weekly news) Dog fighting app controversy A new dog fighting app called Dog Wars has been launched

by Kage Games. Players feed, train and fight virtual dogs. Dog Wars glorifies dog fighting and lets players inject their dogs with steroids, bet virtual money and use a gun to fight the cops during a bust. It’s difficult to believe that the world needs this ‘game’. It arrived at a time when public outrage and law enforcement concern about dog fighting is at an all-time high.

(ASPCA e-newsletter) Most common pet injuries listed A recent WebMD Pet health Feature covered the most common injuries among dogs and cats. The list included foreign body ingestion, being hit by a car, dog bites, poisoning, cat bite abscesses, eye trauma, cruciate ligament ruptures, lameness/back trouble, torn or broken nail, and heat stroke/dehydration. (veterinary advantage weekly news) Study tracks causes of death A new study from the University of Georgia examined the causes of mortality in different dog breeds. This study involved sifting through 20 years of records from the Veterinary Medical Database, a collaborative resource that includes records from 27 North American veterinary medical school teaching hospitals. Causes of death for over 75,000 dogs were identified of the relationships between cause of death, age at death, and breed were analyzed.

Among the findings: Young dogs are overwhelming likely to die of infection, trauma, or congenital disease, whereas cancer is by far the greatest cause of death in older dogs; Boxers and Golden retrievers have a higher incidence of cancer deaths than most breeds; small breed dogs suffer from more neurologic and cardiac disease; and there is a surprising high rate of cancer deaths in Bouvier de Flandres dogs and a relatively high rate of cardiovascular causes of death in Fox Terriers. (veterinary advantage weekly news) More young adults opting for dogs over kids FlexPet conducted a survey of pet owners ages 21 to 30 and found that 61 percent would rather adopt an older dog instead of a brand new puppy. The majority of these respondents (89 percent) said the reason is they don’t have the time or patience to house-train a new puppy because they are working multiple jobs, or they are dealing with other time challenges in their lives. More than half (54 percent) also said they are choosing to add dogs to their families instead of children because they’re not sure they can handle the larger needs of a child. (veterinarypartner.com)

TECHNEWS | VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4

There may be more to the new neighbours than meets the eye.

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