Ensuring there is not a dry eye in the house

Powered by the VetCompass Programme at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), Dr Dan O'Neill and colleagues analysed clinical data on 363 898 dogs to identify predictors for dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). Dan explores how veterinary nurses can use this information to help improve the welfare of dogs.

Myth or truth — are flat-faced dogs really less healthy?

New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) confirms that flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds — including Chihuahuas, Pugs, French Bulldogs and British Bulldogs — are generally less healthy than their non-brachycephalic counterparts, answering the burning question about whether flat-faced dogs truly are less healthy overall.

A description of blend electrolysis for treatment of canine distichiasis: 78 cases (2012–2017)

ObjectiveTo describe a population of dogs treated with blend electrolysis for distichiasis at The Royal Veterinary College and report the complications seen.MethodsIn part 1, records were reviewed from 2012 to 2017 and a population of 78 dogs with distichiasis treated using blend electrolysis (Sterex SX-B blend epilator) analysed. In part 2, 18 dogs treated with blend electrolysis were re-examined prospectively by a diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ECVO).ResultsIn part 1, brachycephalic breeds accounted for 62 per cent. English bulldog was the most common breed (42 per cent). In this population, 88 per cent of dogs were successfully treated with one treatment of electrolysis (successful treatment defined as resolution of clinical signs). Forty-five dogs had recurrent distichia on follow-up, mostly fine distichia without clinical discomfort. Twelve per cent required repeat electrolysis. Complications were infrequent: five dogs had scarring or hypopigmentation of the eyelid margin. In part 2, 18 dogs were re-examined. Ten had distichia recurrence, six had eyelid scarring and five had depigmentation associated with electrolysis. Two dogs had occasional clinical signs thought to be related to distichiasis. All owners perceived their dogs’ ocular comfort to be improved following blend electrolysis.ConclusionsBrachycephalic breeds, most notably English bulldogs, are over-represented in this population. Blend electrolysis appears an effective treatment for resolution of clinical signs.

Isolation of dermatophytes from dogs and cats in the South of England between 1991 and 2017

BackgroundSince the epidemiology of canine and feline dermatophytosis might evolve in response to chronological, sociological and ecological factors, the authors studied the occurrence of dermatophyte pathogens over 27 years subsequent to the last major UK survey.MethodsDermatophyte culture submission records from dogs and cats to the Royal Veterinary College Diagnostic Laboratory in England between 1991 and 2017 were reviewed. Samples were routinely cultured aerobically at 26°C for up to four weeks on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar containing cycloheximide and chloramphenicol; dermatophytes were identified using conventional phenotypic methods.ResultsProportional isolation from cats (15.9 per cent of 1389) exceeded that of dogs (8.1 per cent of 2193) (P<0.001). Together, Microsporum canis and Trichophyton mentagrophytes accounted for 91.9 per cent (n=203) and 80.2 per cent (n=142) of isolations from cats and dogs, respectively. M canis was more frequently (P<0.001) isolated from cats and dogs under two years of age. Dermatophytes were more frequent (P≤0.001) in samples from first-opinion rather than referral practice, and from Jack Russell and Yorkshire terriers and from Persian and chinchilla cats (P≤0.002).ConclusionsM canis and T mentagrophytes remain the most common agents of canine and feline dermatophytosis in the South of England; continued clinical vigilance is required.

Using cytology to identify skin diseases

Reviewed by Zoe Miller, a resident in clinical pathology at the Royal Veterinary College.

Raising awareness of seizure triggers and pre-seizure behaviour changes in dogs

A new study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has identified pre-seizure behavioural changes and potential seizure triggers that may help owners predict when a seizure is going to occur. The RVC’s animal behaviour scientist Dr Rowena Packer explains.

Raising awareness of seizure triggers and pre-seizure behaviour changes in dogs

A new study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has identified pre-seizure behavioural changes and potential seizure triggers that may help owners predict when a seizure is going to occur. The RVC's animal behaviour scientist Dr Rowena Packer explains.

Systematic and concise guide to equine paediatric medicine

Reviewed by Michael Hewetson, an equine internal medicine specialist at the Royal Veterinary College

I am on my way to becoming a vet, but I will never forget my nursing past

Despite loving working in emergency and critical care as a vet technician in Canada, Sandra Kenny still had a niggling desire to become a vet. She is now in her final year at the Royal Veterinary College.