Successful treatment of a dog with a severe Babesia vulpes infection and associated haemophagocytic syndrome after splenectomy
A 12-year-old female, neutered, crossbreed dog was diagnosed by its primary care practice with severe Babesia vulpes infection, based on positive PCR testing, three weeks after elective splenectomy for splenic nodules identified on abdominal ultrasound. Despite treatment with standard antiprotozoal therapy, glucocorticoids, and three blood transfusions, anaemia persisted, becoming non-regenerative and prompting referral. Upon presentation, the dog exhibited pale mucous membranes and was hyperthermic. Blood tests revealed a regenerative anaemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperbilirubinaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, hyperferritinaemia and elevated liver enzyme activity. Coombs' testing was negative, and thoracic and abdominal imaging were unremarkable. A repeated Babesia vulpes PCR was positive and screening for other infectious diseases was negative. Bone marrow cytology and histopathology showed generalised hyperplasia, with macrophages comprising ≥3% of the total nucleated cells. These macrophages displayed prominent erythrophagia and, to a lesser extent, engulfment of mature neutrophils, platelets, and nucleated red blood cells. Therefore, a diagnosis of haemophagocytic syndrome associated with a severe Babesia vulpes infection was made. The dog received double immunosuppressive therapy, a combination of antiprotozoal drugs and a further three blood transfusions. The thrombocytopenia quickly resolved, with the anaemia improving ten days later. The antiprotozoal and immunosuppressive therapies were eventually discontinued without relapse of the babesiosis and repeated Babesia vulpes PCR testing was negative. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report to describe the successful treatment of a splenectomised dog with severe Babesia vulpes infection complicated by haemophagocytic syndrome.
Free and nanoencapsulated meloxicam as an adjuvant in intraoperative and postoperative analgesia in bicthes undergoing ovariohysterectomy
Nanocarriers have the ability to increase the bioavailability of drugs, decreasing the necessary dose and adverse effects. This prospective clinical study aimed to assess the efficacy of analgesia provided by free meloxicam and nanoencapsulated meloxicam during both the intraoperative and postoperative phases of ovariohysterectomy (OH) in female dogs. Twenty healthy dogs were randomly allocated to the FM group (free meloxicam - 0.2 mg/kg) or to the MNano group (meloxicam loaded-nanocapsules - 0.2 mg/kg). Both groups received the formulations orally four hours before the surgical procedure. During the OH surgeries, intraoperative analgesia was measured using elevated heart rate and mean arterial pressure. The pain after surgery was measured using the short form of the Glasgow Composite Pain Scale and Visual Analog Scale in the first 48 hours. Platelet function was measured through a buccal mucosal bleeding time test before meloxicam administration, four hours after that administration, at the end of the OH, and 12 hours after taking the medication. In addition, creatinine was measured preoperatively, 24 and 48 hours after meloxicam administration. The distribution of rescue analgesia in the intraoperative period showed no difference between groups. No patient required supplemental analgesia in the postoperative period. There was no difference between groups in postoperative pain assessment scales, buccal mucosal bleeding time, or creatinine. However, three dogs of the FM group presented vomiting (2/10) and faecal constipation followed by haematochezia (1/10). Both free meloxicam and the new formulation of nano-encapsulated meloxicam promoted satisfactory postoperative analgesia in healthy dogs submitted to OH when administered orally, in a single dose, four hours before the surgical procedure. Only animals treated with free meloxicam had side effects related to the gastrointestinal tract in the postoperative period, indicating that the nanostructured formulation may be is safe and effective as an alternative to commercial products.
Seroprevalence of Dirofilaria Immitis and assessment of systemic inflammatory indexes in apparently healthy dogs from coastal northeastern Brazil
Dirofilaria immitis is a vector-borne zoonotic parasite of considerable veterinary and public health significance. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of D. immitis and investigate associated hematological and inflammatory changes in clinically healthy dogs from the coastal municipalities of Beberibe and Cascavel, Ceará, Brazil. Between November 2024 and March 2025, blood samples were collected from 100 clinically healthy dogs (72 from Beberibe and 28 from Cascavel). Diagnostic testing included immunochromatographic assays for D. immitis antigens and microscopic evaluation for circulating microfilariae. Seropositivity for D. immitis was detected in 17 % of dogs, while microfilariae were identified in 7 %, including one discordant case (microfilaremic but antigen-negative). Hematological analysis revealed significantly reduced lymphocyte counts (p < 0.01) and elevated total plasma protein concentrations (p < 0.05) in D. immitis-positive animals. Furthermore, the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) was significantly increased in infected dogs (p < 0.05), whereas neutrophil counts and other systemic inflammatory indices (NLR, SII, SIRI) exhibited non-significant upward trends. These findings indicate the silent circulation of D. immitis among clinically healthy dogs and point to early hematological and immune system alterations. Notably, the elevation of PLR may serve as a potential biomarker for subclinical immune-vascular involvement in heartworm disease. The study underscores the importance of continued regional surveillance and vector control measures to reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission.
Diagnosis and treatment of inguinal midline abdominal wall herniation of the urinary bladder in three domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Inguinal herniation of the urinary bladder through the inguinal rings of domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) has been well-described in veterinary literature due to the inguinal rings remaining open throughout the lifespan of adult males. Midline body wall herniation has also been described in several veterinary species due to a variety of etiologies, including trauma, incisional dehiscence, and congenital anomalies. This phenomenon has not previously been described in rabbits. This case series describes three adult male intact rabbits that presented to three separate institutions with a swelling on ventral midline of unknown etiology. One rabbit had decreased food intake, frequent urination, and urinary incontinence prior to presentation; one rabbit was lethargic and unwilling to move; and one rabbit presented without clinical signs. Herniation of the urinary bladder was diagnosed via imaging in each case and surgical repair was elected. During surgical dissection of the hernial sac, it was discovered one rabbit had a herniated loop of small intestine as well. In each case, the inguinal rings were identified separately, the margins of the body wall defect were excised, and the body wall was reconstructed. This presentation required an altered surgical approach compared to inguinal ring herniorrhaphy procedures that have previously been described in rabbits. One rabbit had worsening of pre-existing azotemia after the procedure. Surgical complications, including recurrence of herniation, were not observed in these three rabbits. Midline body wall herniation of the urinary bladder should be considered as a differential diagnosis in rabbits with caudal abdominal and/or inguinal swelling or clinical signs of urinary disease.
Disseminated B-cell lymphoma of the urogenital tract in a guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)
A 4-year-old, 0.81 kg, female intact, American guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) was presented for a one-day history of perianal swelling. Physical examination revealed a body condition score of 2 out of 9, a distended abdomen that was painful on palpation, an abnormal vulvar conformation that was enlarged, edematous, ulcerated, and erythematous with adhered foreign material, and a 1 × 1 cm firm mass of the right mammary gland. Hematology revealed a marked lymphocytosis and heterophilia, and a biochemistry panel revealed elevated albumin, alkaline phosphatase, and sodium. Radiographs and abdominal ultrasound showed a caudal abdominal mass effect, edematous enlargement throughout the urogenital tract, a mass effect in the right mammary gland, gas distention of the cecum and stomach, and a markedly thickened urinary bladder wall with probable uroliths and mineralized sediment. Due to the extent of disease, euthanasia was elected and a necropsy with histopathology was performed. On gross examination the vulva and surrounding tissues were firm and swollen, bilateral masses were identified expanding each mammary fat pad, and the inguinal and mandibular lymph nodes were bilaterally enlarged. Histopathologic examination revealed a monomorphic population of neoplastic lymphocytes effacing the uterus, broad ligament, vulva, kidneys, urinary bladder, lung, liver, heart, leptomeninges, thyroid, and bone marrow. The diagnosis was determined to be disseminated B-cell lymphoma via PAX5 immunohistochemistry. This is the first case of disseminated B-cell lymphoma in a guinea pig that predominantly affected the urogenital tract. Lymphoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in guinea pigs with perineal enlargement.
Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus: Occurrence and pathology in cats with respiratory disease
Feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV) are the primary causative agents of respiratory disease in cats. Although fatal respiratory disease is frequently observed in routine pathological diagnostics, the role of viral involvement is rarely investigated. This study aimed to assess the involvement of FHV and FCV in necropsied cats with fatal respiratory disease using immunohistochemistry, and to characterize the affected tissues, along pathological and epidemiological findings of the positive cats. Sixty cats were assessed. Immunolabeling for FHV was observed in 12 cats, for FCV in seven cats, and for both viruses in three cats. These FHV and FCV-positive cats (n = 22) were included in the study. Co-infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) was observed in 14 cats (six FeLV-positive, four FIV-positive, and four FeLV and FIV-positive). Gross lesions were mainly restricted to the respiratory and upper digestive tracts. Histological analysis revealed that the affected tissues included the nasal and oral cavities, esophagus, larynx, trachea, and lungs. All FCV-positive cats and most FHV-positive cats presented erosive, ulcerative, and fibrinonecrotic lesions in the upper respiratory/digestive tracts, concomitant with pneumonia (18/22). The remaining 4/22 cats, all infected with FHV, had lesions restricted to the upper respiratory tract. FHV-positive cats showed a bronchointerstitial pneumonia, whereas FCV-positive cats exhibited a fibrinosuppurative pneumonia. This study highlights pneumonia as an important cause of death in cats with FCV and FHV infection, particularly in those co-infected with retroviruses. It also emphasizes the importance of collecting samples from the respiratory and upper digestive tracts during necropsy and using immunohistochemistry to confirm the involvement of viral infectious agents-even in adult and aging cats. The findings of this study may contribute to further investigations into feline respiratory diseases.
Successful physiotherapy management of a geriatric dog with femoral head ostectomy (FHNO) and concurrent posterior contralateral limb amputation
The current case aims to report the physiotherapy management and long-term outcomes of femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHNO) performed on a geriatric dog with pelvic-contralateral limb amputation. A 10-year-old, 36 kg mixed-breed castrated male dog with an amputated left hind limb was referred to our department for pain and lameness in the right hind limb. The dog was diagnosed with end-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA) and required an FHNO, as total hip replacement (THR) was not pursued due to financial constraints. Two weeks after the surgical intervention, the dog was still experiencing difficulty moving without support. Therefore, a physiotherapy protocol was initiated, consisting of weekly hydrotherapy sessions to promote muscle growth and strength, zonal laser therapy to manage joint pain, and systemic administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), nutraceutical joint supplements, and oral cannabis oil. Hydrotherapy was associated with a 5 cm increase in thigh circumference after eight sessions, indicating improved muscle mass and strength. After two months of physiotherapy, the dog showed considerable improvement and was able to walk independently. The owner was pleased with the long-term outcome. Physiotherapy led to positive clinical outcomes, including improved muscle strength and gait, with a favorable prognosis after 14 months of follow-up. Physiotherapy should be considered in dogs with severe hip OA managed by FHNO when the contralateral pelvic limb is amputated.
Serum osteopontin level is elevated in dogs with mammary carcinomas
The objective of the current research was to assess osteopontin (OPN) as a biomarker of canine mammary tumors (CMT). Twenty CMT tissues were collected post-surgery. Blood samples were also collected from the same dogs as well as healthy tumor free dogs and serum was harvested. Fragment encoding the immunodominant region of canine osteopontin (693 bp) was cloned and expressed as a HISx6 - tagged protein in a prokaryotic expression system using pPROEX-HTa vector. A 26 kDa recombinant osteopontin (rOPN) was expressed, purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography and assessed by SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis. In order to optimize a sandwich ELISA for the relative assessment of circulating OPN in the sera of dogs with mammary tumors, hyperimmune sera were produced against the expressed protein in rabbits and mice. The developed sELISA was found to be 90 % specific and 85 % sensitive with respect to histopathological examination in detecting CMT. The circulating levels of OPN were significantly elevated in dogs with mammary tumors as compared to the healthy animals. The results suggest that OPN can serve as a serum biomarker of CMT.
The effect of total ultrasound time, average ultrasonic power, and effective phacoemulsification time on post-operative outcomes in dogs undergoing phacoemulsification surgery
To investigate the relationship between UST (total ultrasound time), AVG (average ultrasonic power) and EPT (effective phacoemulsification time) with visual outcome and the most common surgery-related complications post phacoemulsification. Additionally to identify whether postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) was significantly different between visual and non-visual eyes.
Analgesic efficacy of pregabalin in dogs undergoing mastectomy with ovariohysterectomy
The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of pregabalin in dogs diagnosed with mammary carcinoma undergoing mastectomy with ovariohysterectomy. In a randomized, blinded, clinical, placebo-controlled study, 24 dogs were assigned to receive either an oral pregabalin suspension (4 mg/kg/0.1 mL/kg, Pregabalin group, n = 12) or a placebo solution (0.1 mL/kg, Placebo group, n = 12), administered 60 minutes before and every 8 hours after surgery. The dogs were premedicated with intramuscular (IM) morphine (0.3 mg/kg). Anesthesia was induced with intravenous (IV) propofol at a sufficient dose to allow intubation and was maintained with isoflurane. Intraoperatively, a constant rate infusion of morphine (0.1 mg/kg/h) was maintained until the end of surgery. Meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg, IV) was administered immediately after intubation. Intraoperatively, fentanyl (2.5 µg/kg, IV) was administered to control cardiovascular responses to surgical stimulation. Pain was assessed using the short-form Glasgow Composite Pain Scale 24 hours prior to surgery (baseline) and at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 hours after extubation. Sedation scores were evaluated at the same time points using a descriptive numerical scale. Morphine (0.5 mg/kg, IM) was administered as rescue analgesia. Data were analyzed using t-tests, Fisher's exact test, Kaplan-Meier curve, Mann-Whitney test, and Friedman test. Differences were considered significant when P < 0.05. Pain scores, sedation scores, and analgesic requirements did not differ significantly between groups. Intraoperative fentanyl and postoperative rescue analgesia were required in 100% and 75% of the dogs, respectively, in both treatment groups. In conclusion, as part of a multimodal analgesic protocol, oral pregabalin at 4 mg/kg every 8 hours did not provide additional postoperative analgesic benefits over placebo in dogs undergoing mastectomy with ovariohysterectomy.
Retrospective study on antimicrobial resistance in bacteria isolated from clinical infections in Dogs at a Brazilian Veterinary Teaching hospital
Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing concern impacting both human and animal health. This cross-sectional and retrospective study analyzed 1,108 clinical samples from dogs treated at a veterinary teaching hospital in Espírito Santo, Brazil, between 2019 and 2023. Microbiological cultures were performed on the samples, and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles were determined using the disk diffusion method. The objective was to identify the main pathogens, assess bacterial resistance patterns, and detect the presence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Of the samples analyzed, 793 (71.57%) showed bacterial growth, yielding a total of 1,140 isolates, as 268 samples were polymicrobial infections (involving more than one bacterial species). The most affected systems were the oto-dermal system (68.60% [782/1,140]), followed by the urinary system (23.25% [265/1,140]). Among the isolates, Gram-positive bacteria predominated (54.60% [623/1,140]), with Staphylococcus spp. being the most frequent (41.05% [468/1,140]). Among Gram-negative bacteria, the most prevalent species were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (11.75% [134/1,140]) and Escherichia coli (11.49% [131/1,140]). The highest resistance were associated with sulfonamides/trimethoprim, azithromycin, and ampicillin. Multidrug resistance was identified in 15.01% (136/906) of the isolates, mainly among Enterobacteriaceae (12.80% [116/906]). The findings suggest that bacterial resistance is associated with the intensive use of antimicrobials commonly prescribed by the clinical community in the study area and varies depending on the microorganism and the infected system. In conclusion, continuous surveillance is essential to guide the rational use of antimicrobials, thereby reducing the impact of bacterial resistance. Additionally, analyzing the resistance profiles of clinical isolates is crucial for the effective treatment of dogs requiring antibiotic therapy.
Coinfection of Klebsiella oxytoca and Granulicatella adiacens promoting fatal fibrinonecrotic enteritis in a red footed-tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria)
Enteric bacterial infections in reptiles are commonly caused by Gram-negative bacteria with zoonotic importance, with few reports of Gram-positive bacteria as a causative agent of such infections. This case report presents a fatal case of fibrinonecrotic enteritis in a red-footed tortoise. After necropsy, microscopic and microbiological analyses of the small intestine were performed, suggesting the occurrence of a coinfection with two bacteria. Both isolates were subjected to partial 16S-rDNA sequencing and identified as Klebsiella oxytoca and Granulicatella adiacens. While Klebsiella oxytoca is a well-documented pathogen in reptiles, Granulicatella adiacens has previously been reported only in abscesses of domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), injured tissues of Ozark hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis bishopi), and human infections, suggesting a potential unexplored zoonotic risk. This is the first report of enteric co-infection with K. oxytoca and G. adiacens, highlighting the need for further investigation into the potential impact of G. adiacens on reptile health and its possible zoonotic implications.
Seroprevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi in household and shelter dogs in the northeastern region of Brazil
Dogs play a crucial role as peri-domestic reservoirs and potential sentinels in the environmental circulation of Trypanosoma cruzi. However, despite their relevance to One Health, seroepidemiological studies on the distribution of T. cruzi in dogs remain scarce. Thus, this study aimed to determine the frequency of anti-T. cruzi IgG antibodies in household and shelter dogs in the municipality of Arapiraca, Alagoas, in the northeastern region of Brazil. Serum samples from 150 dogs from two shelters and 150 from household dogs were tested for IgG anti-T. cruzi antibodies using the Immunofluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT) (cut-off ≥ 1:40). Univariate analysis was employed to investigate factors associated with seropositivity for the parasite. Of the animals, 9.0% (27/300) tested positive for anti-T. cruzi antibodies. Shelter dogs (frequency = 77.8%; 21/27) exhibited an odds ratio (OR) = 3.29 (95% CI [1.25 - 8.64]; p = 0.0156) compared to household dogs (frequency = 22.2%; 6/27). The results of this study indicate that shelter dogs are more exposed to the infection and can be used as sentinel animals in local Chagas disease control programs to predict the emergence of cases in human populations.
Highly conserved prion protein sequences in random bred cats with three novel synonymous PRNP gene variants
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies are infectious, fatal, neurodegenerative diseases that affect both humans and animals. They occur as a result of misfolding of prion protein. In some species, variations in prion protein gene (PRNP) were associated with susceptibility to prion diseases. To date, only a few studies have investigated prion protein in cats. For this reason, this study aims to identify feline PRNP polymorphisms in random-bred cats. DNA isolation, PCR and 922 bp amplicon sequencing were performed in order to detect PRNP gene variants in 74 cat samples collected from Istanbul, north-western part of Turkey. Results were evaluated by using SPSS 25.0, HAPLOTYPE ANALYSIS 1.05, DnaSP v6, SRPLOT and PHYLOVIZ Online. In total, eleven polymorphisms including 10 SNPs and a 27 bp in/del polymorphism in the tandem repeat region were observed. Three of these SNPs, c.201C>A, c.225C>T, c.228A>C, were detected for the first time. All SNPs in the open reading frame were synonymous, so no amino acid variation was detected in the prion protein sequence. A total of 28 haplotypes were observed, including 8 major haplotypes with frequencies ≥ 0.05. The results indicating that the prion protein is conserved in cats from north-western Turkey, in contrast to other samples from this country, point to possible differences in the PRNP gene between relatively closely located populations.
Epidemiological and clinical insights into canine epilepsy: A retrospective study in southern Brazil
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder in dogs, characterized by recurrent seizure episodes that can significantly impact quality of life. This retrospective study analyzed 116 dogs treated in 2023 and 2024, evaluating clinical and epidemiological factors associated with epilepsy and other neurological conditions. Data were collected from clinical consultations, laboratory tests, and imaging exams. Idiopathic epilepsy was the most frequent cause of seizures, primarily affecting young adult dogs (mean age: 5.27 ± 2.75 years), with no significant sex predisposition (p > 0.05). Mixed-breed dogs were the most commonly affected, although certain pure breeds - such as French Bulldogs, Siberian Huskies, and Yorkshire Terriers - showed increased representation. Ischemic stroke was rare, reinforcing that seizures are not a predominant manifestation of this condition. Intracranial tumors were mainly observed in elderly dogs (aged over 10 years), with meningioma being the most common, underscoring the importance of early neurological evaluation. This study contributes to a better understanding of epilepsy in dogs in southern Brazil, supporting differential diagnosis and clinical decision-making. The findings also highlight the importance of advanced diagnostics and individualized treatment plans. Given the complexity of epilepsy, further research is needed to improve understanding of its causes, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing the prognosis and quality of life of affected dogs.
Pet aftercare ordering models: Evolving to meet the needs of today's pet owner
Deceased pet aftercare is an important part of a pet owner's experience and must be handled professionally with great attention to detail by veterinary teams and pet aftercare companies. To facilitate proper body handling, some pet aftercare companies have formed business relationships with veterinary hospitals/clinics, known as a Veterinary Aftercare Ordering Model (VAOM). An alternative model to the VAOM is the Client Aftercare Ordering Model (CAOM), whereby pet owners interact directly with an aftercare company. The goal of this study was to gain insights into veterinary professionals' experiences and opinions regarding their aftercare model (VAOM or CAOM). An anonymous online survey was distributed through veterinary-related organizations, listservs, and social media sites from March 2024 through July 2024. A total of 772 participants completed the survey, with 21 % of participants reporting currently using a CAOM to support their client's aftercare ordering needs. The factor reported as most important when using a CAOM was the ability to reduce potential mistakes (e.g., misspelling pet and owner names, contact information, and forgetting memorial item requests). Staff-related factors, including the impact on time needed to review aftercare options with clients, the need to be a liaison between the client and crematory, and the negative perception of appearing to upsell aftercare services, were all rated as more important by veterinary technicians compared to veterinarians. In conclusion, participants found that the use of CAOMs to be positively perceived by their clients and the majority indicated they plan to continue using the model.
Effect of single-dose intravenous furosemide on basal tear secretion in healthy dogs
This study investigated the effect of intravenous furosemide on basal tear secretion in healthy dogs. Six healthy beagle dogs (three males and three females) aged 1.5-2.8 years were enrolled in this randomized, cross-over, blinded study. All dogs were administered one of three medication protocols in a randomized, cross-over manner: high-dose (HD) furosemide (furosemide 4 mg/kg IV), low-dose (LD) furosemide (furosemide 2 mg/kg IV), or placebo (saline 0.3 mL/kg IV). The Schirmer Tear Test II for dogs was performed to measure basal tear secretion before and 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after the administration of furosemide or saline. Blood samples were collected for total protein (TP) and packed cell volume (PCV) measurements before and 120 min after medication or placebo administration. Basal tear secretion significantly increased in the LD and HD groups compared with that in the placebo group. Significant differences were identified in TP and PCV between the HD and LD, between the HD and placebo groups, and between the LD and placebo groups. In healthy dogs, a significant increase in basal tear secretion was observed in the LD and HD groups compared with that in the placebo group.
Partial laryngectomy in a cat with thyroid cartilage osteochondroma: Surgical management and postoperative care
Laryngeal tumors are rare in cats and pose a challenging clinical and surgical approach. The presence of vital anatomical structures in the region and the risk of airway obstruction may culminate in perioperative morbidity and mortality. The objective of this report is to describe a successful case of partial laryngectomy performed in a cat with an osteochondroma in the thyroid cartilage and the outcome of the conservative management of the airway achieved using high-flow nasal oxygen without the need for a temporary tracheostomy in the postoperative period. The current survival time and progression-free interval are both 574 days.
Prevalence and molecular characterization of Trypanosoma evansi infections in dogs using RoTat 1.2 VSG gene from Punjab state, India
The present study aims at development, standardization and application of Rode Trypanozoon antigenic type 1.2 variant surface glycoprotein (RoTat 1.2 VSG) gene based-PCR assay for the detection of Trypanosoma evansi in dogs of Punjab state, India. The prevalence rate was evaluated by screening 482 canine blood samples collected from various districts by microscopy and the standardized PCR assay. The T. evansi prevalence was estimated as 0.21 % (1/482) and 1.45 % (7/482) with microscopy and PCR assay, respectively. The comparative analysis of diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of PCR assay with microscopy revealed ″fair″ agreement by kappa value statistics between the two tests with a statistically significant (p<0.05) variation. Assessment of risk factors (age, breed, location, season and sex) associated with T. evansi infection, recorded a significant (p<0.05) correlation with age of host. The cladistics genetic diversity analysis of generated sequence data of RoTat 1.2 VSG gene exhibited 99.9-100.0 % homology among various T. evansi isolates of dogs. In the present study 03 sequences of RoTat 1.2 VSG gene from Punjab isolates were generated and used for the haplotype network analysis along with 16 T. evansi GenBank archived sequences. The sequences from India corresponding to different hosts revealed 09 haplotypes.
Mammary neoplasms in male dogs: A 24-year descriptive study
Mammary neoplasms in male dogs are as rare as in humans, accounting for <1% of all tumors. In a descriptive review of cases diagnosed between 2000 and June 2024, 2,172 mammary neoplasms were identified, of which only four (0.18%) occurred in male dogs. The patients ranged in age from 8 to 11 years, with a mean age of 9.7 years. Histopathological analysis revealed that 75% (3/4) of the cases were malignant, while 25% (1/4) were benign. Among the malignant cases, only one patient exhibited regional metastases. Two patients had concurrent testicular neoplasia, both diagnosed as Leydig cell tumors. Malignant histological subtypes included carcinosarcoma, tubular carcinoma, and carcinoma within a mixed tumor. The only benign tumor identified was a benign mixed tumor. All malignant neoplasms exhibited high expression of hormone receptors, highlighting their potential role in tumor development. Additionally, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, a potential therapeutic target and prognostic factor, was observed. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving prognosis; however, due to the rarity of this condition, diagnosis is often delayed. These findings emphasize the occurrence of these neoplasms in male dogs, and report on complementary techniques to improve therapeutic strategies.
Prevalence and molecular characterization of parvoviruses in dogs and domestic cats in Guangxi, China: new emergence of CPV-2c in cats
Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) and its canine-adapted derivative, canine parvovirus (CPV), cause severe gastroenteritis in their respective hosts. To investigate the molecular epidemiology and cross-species transmission of these viruses, we conducted a large-scale surveillance study in Guangxi, China. From 1257 fecal samples from dogs (n = 552) and domestic cats (n = 705), we obtained 86 VP2 gene sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed three CPV subtypes circulating in dogs: New-CPV-2a (5.3 %, 3/57), New-CPV-2b (1.8 %, 1/57), and the predominant CPV-2c (93.0 %, 53/57), all clustering with contemporary Asian strains. These variants exhibited 17 amino acid substitutions in the VP2 capsid protein, including key residues associated with host adaptation and antigenic variation. Crucially, we detected five CPV-2c strains in domestic cats that contained the S564N and G568A mutations in VP2-residues previously implicated in feline host adaptation. While FPV-G3 (79.2 %) remained predominant in cats, the emergence of CPV-2c in felines demonstrates active cross-species transmission. Our study demonstrates the complex molecular epidemiology of parvoviruses in southern China and documents the expanding host range of CPV-2c. These findings underscore the need for continuous surveillance using whole-genome sequencing to track viral evolution and inform vaccine development.
