OSU Veterinary Medicine Continuing Education

Bovine Embryo Transfer Training Course 06/23/2012

Tue, 08 May 2012 09:52:54 GMT

2012 Bovine Embryo Transfer Training Course for Veterinarians

This course is intended for veterinarians with interest in learning protocols for performing embryo transfer in cattle. The 1.5 day course will offer intensive hands-on experiences ranging from embryo collection, search, classification and handling for fresh transfer or cryopreservation. Owing to the nature of personalized training, the course will be limited to 8 participants.

Schedule:
Saturday, June 23, 2012
8:00–9:00am, Review on Relevant Bovine Female Anatomy and Physiology
9:00–10:00am, Current Estrous Cycle Synchronization and Superovulation Protocols
10:00–11:00am, Embryo Morphology and Classification
11:00–12:00pm, Embryo Cryopreservation
12:00–1:00pm, Lunch
1:00–5:00pm, Equipment overview and ex vivo flush
Laboratory training: embryo search, handling, and preparation for transfer or freezing
Sunday, June 24, 2012
8:00–12:00pm, WET LAB: Embryo Collection from superovulated cows

Registration includes conference instruction, continental breakfast, and lunch. Course registration must be received by June 15, 2012. Registration is open on a first-come, first-served basis. You may cancel your conference registration at any time prior to June 15, 2012 and receive an 80% refund of the course fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations received after June 15, 2012. There are no refunds for no shows. We are not liable for travel expenses incurred by participants, but will issue full registration refunds if we cancel the conference.

Royal Canin/Ohio State Symposium: Small Animal Cardiology 10/27/2012

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:01:04 GMT

The 36th Annual Royal Canin & Ohio State Symposium
Topics in Small Animal Cardiology

The 2012 Royal Canin / Ohio State Symposium will give you, the primary care practitioner, the resources you need to take better care of your patients. Experienced clinical experts will share their approaches to diagnosis and treatment for the most common problems in primary care so you can immediately incorporate them into your practice. Presentations will span two information-filled days, providing you with 15 focused, practical hours of continuing education credit. Question & Answer sessions, along with interactive case presentations, will reinforce key concepts, helping you deliver up-to-date care to your cardiac patients.

Conference speakers include:
Dr. Clarke Atkins, North Carolina State University
Dr. John Bonagura, The Ohio State University
Dr. Lisa Freeman, Tufts University
Dr. Robert Hamlin, The Ohio State University
Dr. Bruce Keene, North Carolina State University
Dr. Virginia Luis Fuentes, Royal Veterinary College, London
Dr. Kathryn Meurs, North Carolina State University
Dr. Matt Miller, Texas A&M University
Dr. Mark Oyama, University of Pennsylvania
Dr. John Rush, Tufts University
Dr. Brian Scansen, The Ohio State University
Dr. Karsten Schober, The Ohio State University
Dr. Rebecca Stepien, University of Wisconsin
Dr. Wendy Ware, Iowa State University

For full conference agenda and details, view the brochure at the bottom of the page.

Registration includes conference instruction, refreshments and snacks, and course proceedings. Course registration must be received by October 12, 2012. Registration is open to veterinarians and technicians on a first-come, first-served basis and may close prior to October 12, 2012 if the course is filled. You may cancel your conference registration at any time prior to October 12, 2012, and receive an 80 percent refund of the course fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations received after October 12, 2012. There are no refunds for no shows. If the course is cancelled, you will receive a full refund.

Small Animal Local Anesthetic Techniques

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:36:27 GMT

This presentation provides an introduction to local anesthetic techniques. In small animal practice, these techniques have been utilized widely for dental procedures but are used much less often for orthopedic and soft tissue procedures. Local and regional anesthetic and analgesic techniques can be an effective adjunct or alternative to general anesthesia, provide pain relief with minimal systemic side effects, and can be cost effective for clients and practitioners.

Greyhound Anesthesia and Analgesia

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:09:15 GMT

The popularity of Greyhounds as pets has increased because of the increased number of retired racing Greyhounds available for adoption. Since the early 1980's veterinarians have known that Greyhounds experience prolonged effects from barbiturates. Since. that time other drugs have been indentified that also have prolonged duration of action in Greyhounds. This presentation describes suitable anesthetic and analgesic protocols for Greyhounds including the use of local anesthetic blocks for dental procedures.

Inhalant Anesthetics

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:07:22 GMT

This presentation covers the administration of inhalant anesthetics including the basic principles of how inhalants are delivered, what cardiopulmonary processes are involved with their delivery and how changes in physiology impact hte course of anesthesia. The commonly used inhalant anesthetics are discussed including their clinical use, their potency, and their pharmacology. Anesthetic systems are briefly introduced.

Cytology of Skin Masses

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:06:04 GMT

This session provides a brief introduction to cytology, including sample collection and processing. The cytologic appearance of inflammatory and neoplastic lesions involving the skin is reviewed. The cytologic features of transmissible venereal tumor, histiocytoma, cutaneous lymphoma, mast cell tumor, melanoma, and extramedullary plasma cell tumors are described and shown with photomicrographs that are representative of typical findings from fine needle aspirates of these tumors. The session concludes with a description of the cytologic features of epithelial and mesenchymal tumors involving cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue, with examples of some of the more common cutaneous epithelial and mesenchymal tumors in dogs and cats.

Neonatal Physiology and Pathophysiology

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:51:38 GMT

This presentation provides an overview of neonatal physiology and pathophysiology, with a special emphasis on puppies during the first 2 weeks of life. Normal physiology of the neonate (and how it differs significantly from adults) is reviewed. Initial monitoring, including normal values at different stages of development, is discussed. The participant then learns how to calculate daily energy requirements, feeding intervals and meal volumes for bottle fed puppies. The final sections focus on presentation of the sick neonate. Recognition and treatment of serious complications of illness, including hypovolemia, hypoglycemia, and hypothermia, are reviewed. Causes of neonatal illness and fading puppy/kitten syndrome are discussed. Finally, neonatal septicemia is a frequent end-point of illness. Practical diagnostics and therapeutics are evaluated. This presentation is aimed at the general practitioner with a large breeder clientele, or for any veterinarian uncomfortable or unfamiliar with practical neonatal care and physiology.

Feline Cardiomyopathy

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:19:09 GMT

Feline cardiomyopathy (primary or secondary) is an important clinical entity affecting cats of any age, breed, and sex. Among the different types of cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is by far the most common one. Many cats with HCM are asymptomatic but reveal hear murmurs, gallop sounds, or arrhythmias on physical examination. Echocardiography is the “gold standard” in the diagnosis of primary heart muscle disease in cats. Thoracic radiography, ECG, blood biochemical analyses including circulating biomarkers (e.g., cardiac troponin I or NT-proBNP), and genetic testing are complimentary diagnostic tests and will all be discussed in detail. Classical outcomes of heart muscle disease in cats include congestive heart failure, syncope, sudden death, and arterial thromboembolic disease. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of disease and is, in general, directed toward symptom relief. There is currently no proven therapy that prevents or postpones the classical clinical outcomes of primary feline cardiomyopathy. Secondary cardiomyopathy including Taurine-deficient cardiomyopathy, tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy, and heart muscle disease secondary to hyperthyroidism are often reversible if detected on time. Basic principles and controversies with regard to pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of feline cardiomyopathy as well as recently obtained evidence from pilot or controlled clinical trials with regard to the use of pimobendan, ACE inhibitors, spironolactone, bradycardic agents, and platelet inhibitors in cats with heart muscle disease will be discussed.

The Indoor Cat Initiative

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:18:34 GMT

This talk will briefly present the rationale for the Indoor Cat Initiative (ICI) and the importance of an understanding about how cats learn from interactions with their environments, and how these learnings can be modified. Some sections of the ICI will then be presented and discussed so participants understand their use with clients. A variety of components of the “cat resource checklist” will be presented, followed by a discussion of how to help the client determine which enrichment(s) to choose, how to implement them, and how to support clients through the change process. This information will include determination of the present environmental situation, presentation of options for enrichment, development of “SMARTR” plans for change, and recommendations for follow-up and determination of effectiveness of one’s presentation.

Anesthetic Risk

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:18:04 GMT

The risk of complications in anesthesia is greater in horses, cats and dogs than it is in humans. Human error remains a leading cause of anesthetic complications and there are environmental factors that, when overcome, improve the safety of anesthetic patients. The operating room environment is discussed along with a review of the retrospective studies that have examined factors related to anesthetic mishaps.

Behavior Changes in the Aging Pet

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:17:21 GMT

The evolution of the human-animal bond, combined with the rapid development of sophisticated diagnostic and medical treatment technology in veterinary medicine has made the geriatric pet a common household phenomenon. Pet owners and veterinarians are now aware that behavioral changes in geriatric animals are not just “old age” and that therapies exist to both improve quality of life and increased longevity. This presentation aims to address behavioral signs associated with sensory and cognitive decline in dogs and cats. In addition it outlines the pathophysiology, means of diagnosis, and current treatment options for cognitive dysfunction syndrome.

Vestibular Disease in Dogs and Cats

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:16:43 GMT

This presentation will review the fundamentals of vestibular disease in dogs and cats presenting a variety of cases to illustrate the concepts discussed. Initially, a review of the vestibular signs and their relationship to the relevant neuroanatomy of the peripheral and central vestibular structures will be presented. Emphasis will be placed in the differentiation between central and peripheral vestibular signs, because the diagnostic approach, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis differ greatly according to the location of the lesion. The diagnosis and treatment of the most important diseases causing peripheral and central vestibular signs will be reviewed.

The Basics of Puppy Behavior and Problem Prevention

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:15:26 GMT

This presentation walks you through the basic developmental periods in puppies and adolescent dogs. You will learn what behaviors are normal in each developmental period as well as how outside influences effect dog behavior during early pre- and post- natal development. As most problem behaviors are best treated with prevention, this lecture will outline preventive measures for setting puppies up to be successful pets as adults. Much of what we discuss is directly applicable to the veterinary setting. Finally, we discuss the warning signs of more serious underlying behavior problems and how to get all of this important educational information across to puppy owners.

Feline Ophthalmology

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:48:13 GMT

“Cats are not small dogs.” This presentation focuses on opththalmic anatomic variations in cats and the ophthalmic abnormalities and diseases that are unique to cats as well the aspects of common disease processes and/or treatments that require a different approach in cats.

Management of Chronic Renal Failure

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:47:56 GMT

This presentation provides an overview of nutritional and medical management of chronic renal failure in cats. Nutritional considerations reviewed include dietary protein restriction, role of phosphorus binders in control of renal secondary hyperparathyroidism, as well as potassium and alkali replacement. The role of angiotensin II in the progression of renal disease and the role of ACE inhibitors in management also discussed in light of the BENRIC study of chronic renal failure cats. H2 blocking drugs (famotidine) and anabolic steroids are reviewed. The use of hormonal therapy including calcitriol and erythropoietin are discussed in detail. Finally, management of hypertension is considered.

Canine Hypothyroidism

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:47:41 GMT

This presentation provides an overview of normal thyroid function and the etiology of hypothyroidism in the dog. It reviews the signalment, history, physical findings, and laboratory findings in this disease. It also reviews interpretation of diagnostic tests such as total T4, free T4 by equilibrium dialysis, TSH concentration, and the TSH response test. Pitfalls in diagnosis caused by non-thyroidal illness or drugs (e.g. glucocorticoids, Phenobarbital, sulfonamides) also are explained. Finally treatment with l-thyroxine and monitoring of the patient are reviewed.

Canine Hyperadrenocorticism (Try this course for free!)

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:47:26 GMT

This presentation provides an overview of the etiology of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs as well as a review of the signalment and common historical, physical, and routine laboratory test results. The value (including sensitivity and specificity) of various “screening” (ACTH stimulation test, low dose dexamethasone suppression test, urine cortisol/creatinine ratio) and “discriminatory” tests (high dose dexamethasone suppression test, abdominal ultrasound examination, ACTH assay is reviewed. Finally, proper medical treatment of hyperadrenocorticism using mitotane or trilostane is discussed.

Feline Hyperthyroidism

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:46:30 GMT

Hyperthroidism is the most common endorine disorder of cats. This presentation provides an overview of the etiology, history, physical findings, laboratory findings, and treatment of hyperthyroidism. The advantages and disadvantages of treatment with methimazole, radioactive iodine, and surgery are discussed. The precautions necessary after radioactive iodine are also reviewed.

Hypoadrenocorticism

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:42:33 GMT

This presentation begins with a discussion of the causes of hypoadrenocorticism in the dog. Common signalment, history, and physical findings are presented. Results of routine laboratory findings (e.g. hemogram, profile, urinalysis) follow. The pathophysiology of the commone laboratory abnormalities is explained. Interpretation of resting plasma cortisol, ACTH stimulation test, and plasma ACTH assay is reviewed. How to treat the patient with hypoadrenal crisis is explained as well as the long term management of the stable Addisonian. Use of deoxycorticosterone pivilate versus fludrocortisones as mineralcorticoid replacement is compared.

Cancer Reconstructive Surgery

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:14 GMT

This presentation describes the practical application of reconstructive techniques that are used to close tissue defects after oncologic surgery. In particular, we will focus on techniques used to close "problem areas", such as the head and extremities, where primary closure often leads to excessive skin tension. Practitioners will learn techniques for free skin grafting, axial pattern flaps and specific case examples will be used throughout the lecture to provide an interactive discussion. It is expected that participants will be introduced to techniques that, depending upon their level of previous experience, can be directly applied in their general practice.

Understanding Canine Aggression: Part 3

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:04:18 GMT

Aggression in dogs is an ongoing public safety issue. Many owners struggle to manage their pet’s aggression, either towards people, other animals, or, in many cases, both. Often these owners are at a loss for why these problems have developed and may inadvertently worsen the aggression problem by implementing poor and unsafe management practices. This series of 3 presentations takes a look into the motivational states for canine aggression. It will outline management strategies for common aggression problems in dogs, as well as discuss basic problem prevention. The final presentation will outline 3 separate cases of canine aggression, including treatment plan and outcomes.

Understanding Canine Aggression: Part 2

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:23:59 GMT

Understanding Canine Aggression: Part 1

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:07:00 GMT

Management of Open Fractures in the Cat and Dog

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:05:30 GMT

Open fractures in companion animals can be intimidating to any clinician. Apart from concurrent injuries that many patients suffer during their traumatic event, an open fracture presents its own treatment challenges. While up and foremost, the life of the animal must be saved by proper emergency care, there are several straightforward steps that must be taken to protect an open fracture from further injury. After discussing different types of open fractures, this lecture takes you through the steps of how to care for cats and dogs with such injuries. Depending on your comfort level, I will provide a guide for each treatment step on how to treat an open fracture yourself or what to do when you refer. At the conclusion, post-traumatic osteomyelitis will be discussed briefly.

Teaser Preparation in Ruminants

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:22:17 GMT

A teaser (gomer) is a sterilized male used to detect estrus in females. Teaser animals can be useful in cattle and small ruminant populations. Their principle use is to identify females for artificial insemination. Other potential benefits of using teaser animals include hastening the onset of cycling in young, heifers and causing cows to begin cycling earlier following calving. In sheep, teaser rams are used to encourage ewes to start breeding earlier during the breeding season and for shortening the lambing period. Goals for the creation of teaser animals include the prevention of fertilization and prevention of the spread of venereal diseased (mainly Tritrichomonas fetus in cattle). The maintenance of libido is a third and equally important goal. Prevention of fertilization is accomplished by sterilizing the animal in one of two methods, vasectomy or epididymectomy. To minimize the spread of venereal diseases, either penopexy (prevents penile exteriorization) or translocation of the prepuce and penis (re-directs the penis) are performed. This lecture briefly describes these surgical techniques.

Patellar Luxation

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:21:54 GMT

Case-Based Acid-Base Analysis

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:14:43 GMT

This presentation begins with a brief overview of acid base disturbances including definitions of terms, an explanation of how the body’s response to metabolic and respiratory acid base disorders differs, and presentation of normal compensatory responses in dogs. A case-based approach to interpretation of acid base disorders follow with presentation of several simple acid base disorders (metabolic acidosis, respiratory acidosis, respiratory alkalosis, and metabolic alkalosis) followed by the presentation of 2 patients with mixed disturbances. In all cases, a step-wise approach to interpretation of the results is presented.

Disorders of Potassium: Hypokalemia and Hyperkalemia

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:06:01 GMT

This presentation begins with an overview of the major factors that determine potassium balance in the body: intake, translocation, and excretion. This is followed by a review of the common causes of hypokalemia and hyperkalemia. The effect of disorders of potassium balance on the excitability of neuromuscular tissue is reviewed. The symptomatic treatment of hypokalemia and hyperkalemia is reviewed. Several clinical cases are presented to reinforce the principles of evaluation and treatment of patients with hypokalemia and hyperkalemia.

Disorders of Sodium: Hypernatremia and Hyponatremia

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:45:33 GMT

This presentation reviews how the body senses and responds to changes in plasma osmolality and volume and how the kidney brings about changes in extracellular fluid volume. It reviews the concepts of osmolality and tonicity and explains the relevance of the serum sodium concentration. Disorders associated with hypernatremia are discussed followed by disorders causing hyponatremia. Emphasis is placed on understanding how hyponatremia can occur in patients that are hypovolemic, normovolemic, or hypervolemic. Treatment of hyponatremia and hypernatremia also are discussed.

Introduction to Fluid Therapy

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:19:48 GMT

This course will provide an introduction to the principles of fluid therapy, It will begin with an overview of the distribution and composition of body fluids and electrolytes. The approach to treatment will consist of: 1. Assessment of dehydration; 2. Choice of crystalloid fluid type for treatment; 3. Components of fluid therapy – hydration deficit, maintenance, and ongoing losses; and 4. Presentation of 5 clinical cases to illustrate the principles of fluid therapy.

Feline Aggression: An Overview of Common Problems

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:42:21 GMT

Feline aggression, directed towards humans or between cats, is a problem that is being more commonly reported in recent years. This presentation will discuss the motivation for aggressive behavior in cats and how to read feline body language as a means of making a proper diagnosis. A basic overview of treating many of the common aggression problems will also be discussed, including behavior modification plans, environmental changes, and medication options.

Acute Fluid Therapy in the Horse

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:43:23 GMT

Intravenous fluid replacement therapy is required when horses sustain losses of circulating fluid volume whether the loss be from blood loss or the result of systemic illness. Fifty to 70% of an adult horse's body weight is fluid amounting to approximately 270 liters in an adult horse and 35 liters in a newborn foal. Fluid losses are estimated by performing a physical examination looking at skin turgor, mucous membrane color and capillary refill, heart rate, and the temperature of the extremities. The types of replacement fluids available for horses are crystalloids, colloids such as hetastarch, and plasma or blood. Some replacement fluids such as hypertonic saline are "bridge" fluids, meaning that they can be used to rescue the patient until other fluid therapies and be instituted. Replacement of losses with fluids other than blood result in dilution of oxygen carrying capacity (as measured by packed cell volume) and oncotic value (as measured by total plasma protein).

Emergency Approach to the Dyspneic Cat

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:41:58 GMT

Management of cats presenting for respiratory distress can be particularly challenging. This presentation provides an overview of the various disease processes which can result in dyspnea and respiratory distress in cats and their initial management. There is discussion regarding the clinical signs which help to narrow down the categorical cause of respiratory distress (upper airway, lower airway, pulmonary parenchyma, pleural space) as well as the pathophysiology behind the development of dyspnea. Differential diagnoses and diagnostic approach are also covered briefly. The primary emphasis, however, is focused on initial stabilization and empirical therapy for the cat presenting with respiratory distress. Regardless of the cause, minimizing stress and providing sedation and supplemental oxygen are essential components to treating these delicate patients. Invasive procedures like IV catheter placement, phlebotomy and radiographs should not be performed until the patient is breathing comfortably. Depending on what the underlying cause, some of the treatments often used in the initial treatment of these patients may be helpful but they could also be harmful. The pros and cons of common pharmacological interventions such as diuretics, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics as well as performing thoracocentesis are discussed. Ultimately, the decision for empirical therapy should be based upon clinical picture and most likely diagnosis. Finally, an algorithm for the emergent approach to the dyspneic cat is presented.

Improving and Extending Xylazine Ketamine Anesthesia

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:41:24 GMT

Xylazine and ketamine anesthesia is the mainstay of intravenous anesthesia in the horse. The limitations of xylazine-ketamine anesthesia are its relatively short duration and the quality of muscle relations that is associated. The presentation covers methods of improving muscle relaxation and extending xylazine-ketamine anesthesia on those occasions when a longer period is required.

Chemical Restraint for Standing Procedures in the Horse

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:39:55 GMT

The applied pharmacology of drugs commonly used to sedate horses will be presented with the goal of providing the reader/listener with the background information so that they can make rational decisions on the use of those drugs in their practice. Drugs presented will include the phenothazines, alpha-2 agonists, and opoids. Case examples are included to illustrate the potential uses.

Tooth Root Abscesses in Camelids

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:38:50 GMT

Tooth root abscesses are one of the most common problems afflicting llamas and alpacas. This presentation will give the practitioner a basic knowledge of this common disease. The diagnosis of the disease will be discussed as well as medicla and surgical treatment options. Although surgical treatment of this condition may remain a referral procedure for many practitioners, tips and surgical methods will be discussed.

American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists Guidelines for Anesthesia of Horses

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:17:01 GMT

The American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists has developed guidelines for anesthesia of horses. Horses are at greater risk for anesthesia than the common domestic species or man. Veterinarians should expect that sometime in their career, they will have a complication with a horse under anesthesia. The best protection under this circumstance is to have followed a standard protocol and have a contemporary record documenting that the protocol was followed and the horse’s response to any drugs that were administered. This presentation will cover the guidelines and give practical recommendations for developing anesthetic care plans that accommodate the expert’s recommendations.

Atlantoaxial Instability - A Practical Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:07:13 GMT

Atlantoaxial (AA) instability is often due to congenital malformation of the dens of C2 and most commonly affects young toy breed dogs. Subsequent failure of ligamentous support leads to subluxation of the C1-C2 articulation with acute neurologic signs such as severe neck pain, ataxia, or even motor impairment. This presentation will introduce you to the anatomy of C1-C2, the mechanics of subluxation and the variety of neurologic findings that will help you to detect a cervical myelopathy. Next, different diagnostic tools will be discussed ranging from plain radiographs (the most valuable diagnostic tool to confirm AA instability) to MRI (to assess brain and spinal cord parenchyma in case of other concurrent neurological disease). Treatment options depend somewhat on severity of neurologic signs as well as duration but in general are either conservative or surgical. Different surgical stabilization techniques are briefly discussed to provide a better understanding of their goals and complications. Emphasis is then placed on a step by step guide of the application of a cervical splint.

Canine Degenerative Myelopathy: Update on Diagnosis and Therapy

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 09:46:42 GMT

Canine degenerative myelopathy (DM) is an adult onset fatal neurodegenerative disease that occurs in many breeds. The initial upper motor neuron spastic paraparesis and general proprioceptive ataxia in the pelvic limbs progress to a flaccid lower motor neuron tetraparesis. Recently, a missense mutation in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene was found to be a risk factor for DM suggesting that DM is similar to some forms of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS – Lou Gehrig’s disease). This presentation will review the current knowledge of canine DM with regards to its signalment, clinical spectrum, diagnostic approach, and management.

Meningoencephalitis in Dogs: Overview of Diagnosis and Treatment

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:27:02 GMT

Inflammatory diseases of the CNS in dogs and cats represent a common clinical diagnosis in the field of veterinary neurology. The underlying cause for the inflammation can include infectious and suspected immune mediated etiologies. Confirmation of an inflammatory disease affecting the CNS requires and extensive work up, pivotal to which is the acquisition of CSF. However, although CSF analysis often confirms the presence of an inflammatory disease, the precise cause is difficult to confirm even with additional antibody and antigen based assays of the serum and or the CSF. Treatment of these diseases can be frustrating and difficult in the face of an uncertain diagnosis. These issues will be addressed in this session.

Cervical Spondylomyelopathy (Wobbler Syndrome): Current Concepts in Diagnosis and Treatment

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:14:14 GMT

Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) is a common and controversial disease of the cervical spine of large and giant breed dogs. Not many diseases in veterinary medicine have been referred to by 14 different names and had 21 surgical techniques proposed to treat it. In this presentation Dr. da Costa will discuss the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of dogs with CSM.

Head Trauma and Status Epilepticus

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:03:13 GMT

The pathophysiology of brain injury will be described to illustrate the concepts of primary and secondary injury, progressive cerebral edema, brain compliance and autoregulation, intracranial pressure and herniation. The examination of the patient with brain injury will be discussed with an emphasis on neurologic assessment and prognostication. A stepwise approach to the treatment of head trauma and status epilepticus will be presented.

Treatment of Epilepsy: Standard and Novel Approaches

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 12:35:45 GMT

Antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy is initiated in patients with confirmed epileptic seizures who are experiencing more than one seizure in a 4-6 weeks period, in patients who have cluster seizures, or in those who have presented in status epilepticus. Standard therapies such as phenobarbital and potassium bromide are often employed; however with the increase in novel anticonvulsants available to the veterinary practitioner an understanding of newer therapeutic options is also important. An overview of conventional and novel AEDs appropriate for maintenance therapy in the dog and cat will be presented along with information regarding efficacy, common side effects, dosing strategies and therapeutic monitoring of each drug.

Giardia: Diagnosis, Treatments, Control and Zoonotic Concerns

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:39:23 GMT

Veterinarians often lack confidence in their fecal diagnostics, leading to treatments that may or may not target a causative agent. Treatment failure leads to veterinary confusion and client frustration. This session is designed to provide a logical sequence of fecal exams that should be performed in-house because they are easy, affordable and provide relevant insights beyod parasitic infections. Once confident in diagnostics, veterinarians will have more confidence in treatment options. Giardia is one of the most misunderstood intestinal pathogens, thus we will use diagnosis, treatment and control of Giardia infections as our model for performing the tests, interpreting results, and formulating treatment plans based on real results rather than negative results and assumed pathogens. Veterinarians who believe these techniques are a waste of time in their clinics tend to overlook how much client time is wasted on misdiagnosis and return visits. This session is important for veterinarians and for technicians who would be performing the techniques. Following this session, veterinarians will be able to counsel clients on treatment, control and zoonotic concerns related to Giardia infections of dogs.

Hypercalcemic Disorders in Dogs and Cats - Diagnosis and Management

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:38:10 GMT

The detection of hypercalcemia is problemsome for the busy practitioner since both under and over interpretation lead to diagnostic errors and potential negative consequences for the dog and cat. This session will provide a method to allow the clinician to decide when the finding of hypercalcemia should be considered important now or if it should be followed later. New syndromes of hypercalcemia in the cat (idiopathic) and in the dog (raisin/grape toxicity, calcipotriene toxicity) will be discussed in addition to concerns about hypercalcemia of malignancy and primary hyperparathyroidism. Treatment options for acute and chronic hypercalcemia will be detailed.

Lung Patterns 101: A Radiographic Review

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:35:13 GMT

We were taught the lung pattern basics in veterinary school but sometimes a review, incorporating some of the newer imaging technologies, can help solidify our understanding of the concepts. In this presentation, we will review basic radiographic lung lobe anatomy in dogs and cats paying close attention to anatomic landmarks. We will discuss the importance of proper patient positioning, radiographic exposure, image collimation, and degree of pulmonary inflation in our thoracic studies. We will also thoroughly review the four basic pulmonary patterns of pathology: interstitial (unstructured and nodular), bronchial, alveolar, and vascular. Ample examples of radiographic pulmonary disease will be provided; emphasizing common primary or secondary pulmonary diseases and their characteristic lung patterns.

Environmental Enrichment for Indoor-housed Cats

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:33:37 GMT

Indoor cats are completely dependent on their owners for their survival and quality of life. As in other species, the health and welfare of captive cats depends upon the quality of their environment. This presentation will present a comprehensive list of resources needed to provide an enriched environment for all cats, and explain how to create an enriched environment. Problems in the environment also appear to influence the appearance of signs of a variety of chronic disease syndromes in cats, potentially by unmasking underlying predispositions to these disorders. The mechanisms thought to mediate the effects of the external environment will be presented, and Dr. Buffington also will demonstrate how to identify the role, if any, of the environment in the disorder. How to discuss this aspect of care to promote adherence to therapeutic recommendations will be reviewed, followed by a discussion of collaborating with the client, your technician and our website to choose and implement appropriate changes, helping clients implement needed changes, and troubleshooting problems that may arise.

FAQ's About Acid Base

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:30:41 GMT

The goal of this presentation is to familiarize the attendee with the basic chemistry and physiology behind normal regulation of acid base balance in the body as well as explain the body's response to challenges to acid base balance. The presentation begins with definitions of acids and bases as well as a review of the nature of buffering systems. Next, the attendee will become familiar with the Henderson Hasselbach equation and understand how it is used to access acid base disorders clinically. The role of the lungs and kidneys in the regulation of acid base balance in the body will be described. Finally, the 4 major acid base disorders will be described along with the appropriate compensatory responses in dogs.

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Top Ten Reasons for High SCC in a Dairy Herd

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 09:44:53 GMT

The presentation provides an overview of major reasons for an elevated Somatic Cell Count (SCC) occurring in diary cows. In addition the viewer will comprehend the issues which must be addressed to resolve a high SCC. The presentation will in addition stimulate the viewer to learn the topic more in depth.

Top Ten Reasons for Dairy Cattle Infertility

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 09:16:41 GMT

This presentation provides a brief summary of each of ten common reasons that diary cows do not become pregnant. The presentation also discusses new advances made regarding the comprehension of metabolic and infectious diseases that parturient cows are at risk of developing. The theme includes a discussion of important nutritional factors, pathogenic interactions not previously understood between a cow’s immune response to endometritis and infectious agents as E. coli and A. pyogenes. Finally dairy farm management always contributes to these interactions. These issues are also provided and remedies provided.

Keeping Indoor Cats Healthy (Not approved for CE credit)

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:37:04 GMT

Dr. Tony Buffington, professor of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and an expert on cat wellness provides tips and techniques for preventing stress-related health problems in cats. Topics include understanding domestic cats, enriching your home environment, preventing litter box problems, encouraging appropriate scratching and play, and interacting with your cat. Please note this course is not approved for CE credit.