https://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/gateway/plugin/WebFeedGatewayPlugin/atomJournal of the South African Veterinary Association2023-11-16T12:25:50+00:00Robyn Maraisrobyn@jesser-point.co.zaOpen Journal Systems<p>The <em>Journal of the South African Veterinary Association</em> is a contemporary multi-disciplinary scientific mouthpiece for Veterinary Science in South Africa and abroad. It provides veterinarians in South Africa and elsewhere in the world with current scientific information across the full spectrum of veterinary science. Its content therefore includes reviews on various topics, clinical and non-clinical articles, research articles and short communications as well as case reports and letters.</p>https://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/597A novel loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay to diagnose feline panleukopenia2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00RA BakdeRL RathishJ LijoPM DeepaK Vijayakumar
<p><em>Protoparvovirus carnivoran1</em>, known commonly as feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) is a highly contagious and environmentally stable parvovirus of domestic as well as wild felids. A rapid and robust diagnostic tool will aid in implementing prompt treatment and control measures.</p> <p>A loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) as a point-of-care diagnostic tool for diagnosing feline panleukopenia was standardised using faecal samples of cats. The assay will reduce the cost and time required to diagnose feline panleukopenia.</p> <p>A set of two outer primers (F3 and B3) and two inner primers (FIP and BIP) were designed to target the viral polypeptide (VP2) gene of FPV. Optimisation of the LAMP reaction was done at 60 °C for one hour after an initial denaturation at 95 °C for five minutes. Visualisation of the result based on the addition of SYBR Green 1 dye offered an easy and reliable diagnosis.</p> <p>The detection limit of the standardised LAMP assay was as low as 1.25 ng/μl of the target DNA. Species specificity of the LAMP primers revealed no amplification of the non-target DNA of any other species except that of the canine parvovirus DNA template. DNA extracted from 100 PCR-positive and 20 PCR-negative faecal samples were subjected to the standardised assay and compared with PCR.</p> <p>Analysis of the results revealed that the LAMP assay was 100% sensitive and 90% specific compared to PCR. The LAMP assay could be a reliable tool for the point-of-care diagnosis of feline panleukopenia in limited resource settings.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/572Ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine for the immobilisation of free-livinghyenas (Crocuta crocuta)2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00A RougL MeyerL NetshitavhaduluM LeiberichP Buss
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Free-ranging spotted hyenas (<em>Crocuta crocuta</em>) are immobilised for a variety of purposes, including wildlife-human conflict mitigation, research, and veterinary treatment. Combinations of tiletamine-zolazepam (Zoletil) and medetomidine are commonly used for immobilisation of hyenas, however, recovery times are long.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">In this descriptive study, a total of 20 adult or subadult free-ranging hyenas were immobilised near Skukuza in the Kruger National Park using ketamine, butorphanol, and medetomidine. The goal of the study was to evaluate a suitable dose and measure cardiorespiratory effects of this combination. The quality of induction and recovery were scored using an established scoring system from 1 (excellent) to (poor).</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">Twelve of the 20 hyenas were given an induction score of 1 (excellent), five an induction score of 2 (good), and three an induction score of 3 (fair). Of the animals with induction score = 1, the mean drug dose was 1.17 mg/kg ketamine, 0.25 mg/kg butorphanol and 0.03 mg/kg medetomidine, and the mean induction time and time to handling 6:25 minutes and 9:46 minutes respectively. The mean recovery time (from reversal to standing) was 10:16 min, which is shorter than what has been reported for tiletamine-zolazepam-based combinations in hyenas. Most hyenas were bradycardic (< 40 beats per minute) and the mean PaO<sub>2</sub> 69.5 mmHg. Three hyenas, one with induction score = 2, and two with induction scores = 3 spontaneously recovered at 33, 44 and 56 minutes post approach respectively. Regardless of induction time, all hyenas reached a level of surgical anaesthesia while immobilised.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">Overall, ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine (KBM) was effective in immobilising hyenas but induction times varied, and animals were bradycardic during immobilisation.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/580Copper (Cu) metabolism in domestic herbivores as guide to criteria for predicting the Cu nutritional status of wild ruminants in southern Africa2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00JB Jansen van RyssenGF Bath
<p class="western">In southern Africa game farming has become an effective way of using underutilised resources and a valuable method of preserving and increasing wildlife numbers. However, little is known about the mineral requirements of wild animal species or the assessment of the mineral nutritional status of these species. To establish criteria for estimating the copper (Cu) nutritional status of wildlife, current knowledge about Cu metabolism and criteria for domestic animals has been used. Since the Cu metabolism of ruminants differs substantially from that of non-ruminants, Cu metabolism in domestic species such as cattle and sheep representing wild ruminants, and pigs and horses as non-ruminant species, has been scrutinised to propose criteria for wild bovids in southern Africa. In the adequate range of dietary Cu intakes, literature suggests that hepatic Cu concentrations in ruminants increase linearly with an increase in Cu intake, allowing a relatively reliable measure of sufficiency. In non-ruminants, hepatic Cu concentrations follow a lag phase during which hepatic Cu concentrations remain relatively constant with increasing dietary Cu intakes of more that 25 times their requirements. A consequence is that non-ruminants can tolerate much higher dietary levels of Cu compared to ruminants. It is proposed that at liver Cu concentrations of < 20 mg/kg dry matter (DM), a wild ruminant could benefit from Cu supplementation; liver Cu concentrations of between 20 and 300 mg Cu/kg DM suggest an adequate Cu intake; concentrations of 300 to 500 mg/kg DM indicate a potentially unhealthy accumulation of Cu, while liver Cu concentrations of > 500 mg/kg DM indicate that the animal probably consumed more Cu than required and might be at risk of developing Cu toxicosis.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/584Effect of asiatic acid supplementation in tris-extender on post-thaw functional competence, antioxidant enzyme activity and in vivo fertility of bull sperm2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00M JameelIS SheikhN KakarMR YousufA RiazW Shehzad D KhanM IqbalAM Tareen
<p>Reactive oxygen species at supra-physiological levels trigger oxidative stress during cryopreservation, which can be neutralised by incorporating suitable antioxidants into the semen extender medium. This study was intended to explore the effect of asiatic acid (AA) as an antioxidant in semen extender on frozen-thawed sperm quality and <em>in vivo</em> fertility of bull sperm.</p> <p>Semen was collected from Holstein Friesian bulls for 10 consecutive weeks (total ejaculates = 60). Semen was cryopreserved with a Tris citric acid egg yolk-based extender supplemented with 0 (control), 20, 40, 60, and 100 μM AA.</p> <p>The supplementation of the extender with 40 and 60 μM AA improved (<em>p</em> < 0.05) post-thaw motility kinematics, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, sperm viability, and DNA integrity of bull sperm. Mitochondrial membrane potential was high (<em>p</em> < 0.05) with 60 μM of AA concentration in extender media. The catalase activity in seminal plasma was maintained (<em>p </em>< 0.05) when semen was added with 20, 40, and 60 μM of AA. The in vivo fertility was found to be significantly high with the semen extended with 60 μM AA.</p> <p>Conclusively, this study showed that AA supplementation in semen extender significantly improved sperm motility kinematics and cell integrity, conserved antioxidant enzyme activity, and improved in vivo fertility.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/549A case report of a cementless total hip replacement performed in a pelvic limbamputee after a failed surgical reduction of a traumatic coxo-femoral luxationwith a toggle rod2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00RC ElliottKJ van der Wetering A Kitshoff
<p>Coxo-femoral luxation is the most common luxation seen in dogs after road traffic accidents. There are multiple surgical techniques to repair the luxation. These range from a capsular reconstruction to a total hip replacement. This case report describes a total hip replacement to repair a failed toggle rod repair of a coxo-femoral luxation in a Greyhound pelvic limb amputee. The dog returned to normal activity as a household pet three months post-surgery and at the last follow-up consultation at 12 months post-surgery the dog was able to maintain an acceptable activity level as an amputee with no radiographic signs of complications.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/586Comparison of exposure of the radius afforded by the craniomedial and craniolateral open surgical approaches in dog cadavers2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00SK CrowdisDD Lewis
<p>Management of antebrachial fractures in dogs typically involves open reduction and bone plate stabilisation of the radius performed using either a craniomedial approach (CMA) or craniolateral approach (CLA). The aim of this cadaveric study was to compare radial exposure afforded via the craniomedial and craniolateral approaches, without and with releasing the abductor digiti I longus (ADIL) muscle. The CMA and CLA were performed on alternate paired cadaver forelimbs with the subsequent release (CMA) or elevation (CLA) of the ADIL muscle (<em>n</em> = 12). The percent area of exposure was calculated in defined longitudinal radial segments (LRSs) and hemi-circumferential radial segments (HRSs) using digitally uploaded images. A non-parametric rank sum test was used for statistical analysis (<em>p</em> < 0.05).</p> <p>While both the CMA and CLA provided sufficient exposure for radial cranial plate placement in the mid-to-distal diaphyseal region (50–80% LRSs), the CMA afforded greater exposure to the distal metaphysis (80–90% LRS). The CLA was advantageous in exposing the proximal diaphysis (20–50% LRSs) and distal epiphysis (90–100% LRS). Exposure of the distal diaphyseal, metaphyseal, and epiphyseal regions (80–100% LRSs) was impeded by the ADIL muscle. A tenotomy of the tendon of insertion of the ADIL muscle increased exposure afforded by the CMA in the distal metaphyseal and epiphyseal regions. The exposure afforded by the CLA in the distal diaphyseal and metaphyseal regions was significantly improved by elevating the origin of the ADIL muscle. The results of this study provide useful clinical information when surgeons are deciding which approach to use for cranial radial plating.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/565Impaired endochondral ossification in a skeletally immature dog: implications for femoral cleft formation and suspected incomplete femoral ossification2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00P GuyC Le Roux
<p>Historically, knowledge regarding congenital skeletal malformations in canines is poor. The Nomina Embryologica Veterinaria does not currently list any dysmorphia related to distal femoral fusion, and there is a significant absence of comprehensive descriptions of congenital defects in the veterinary literature. This paper reports on the radiographic and computed tomography (CT) characteristics of a skeletal abnormality in a seven-month-old crossbreed dog that presented for chronic right pelvic limb lameness as a result of secondary developmental patella luxation. Successful resolution of the lameness was achieved through concurrent surgical correction of the patella luxation and distal femoral cleft.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/601Parasites burden in peri-urban free-roaming pigs in Gert Sibande District Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00P MunzheleleNPS SibekoJW OguttuCA MbajiorguFO Fasina
<p><strong>Background:</strong> Parasite infections, unlike regulated animal diseases, do not often receive attention. In fact, parasites are major sources of financial losses in pig enterprises, particularly in subsistence and small-scale pig production systems.</p> <p><strong>Objective: </strong>To identify and quantify the prevalence of ecto- and endo-parasites among peri-urban free-roaming pigs (FRP) in Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM), Mpumalanga.</p> <p><strong>Method:</strong> Pig owners were identified using the snowball sampling method since no sampling frame for FRP farmers exists. Stratified sampling was used to select pigs for sampling for ecto- and endo-parasites. A form was used to record the observations. Pairwise correlation analysis was performed using Stata 15.0. The SPSS V28.0 statistical package was used to perform the chi-square test (X2) to assess the distribution of parasites in different age groups. The prevalence of parasites was assessed in different age groups of pigs using multi-response crosstabs. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to estimate the marginal mean of parasites according to municipality. Statistical significance was assessed at α ≤ 0.05.</p> <p><strong>Results: </strong>Over 90% (91.2%) of the pigs examined were infested with at least one parasite, including <em>Haematopinus suis, Sarcoptes scabiei, Ascaris suum, Fasciola hepatica, Trichuris suis, Strongylids, Coccidia spp, Moniezia expansa,</em> and <em>Siphonaptera spp</em>. The correlation between <em>Ascaris suum</em> and body condition was weak but statistically significant (<em>r </em>= 0.24; <em>p</em> < 0.05).</p> <p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Policy makers, animal researchers and veterinary services must focus on developing policies, risk communication and community engagement materials, which target pig farmers in peri-urban areas such as Gert Sibande District Municipality, Mpumalanga Province.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/560The potential effect of Garlium GEM HCTM as a tick control agent in cattle2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00FM HaggLJ ErasmusWH Stoltsz
<p style="margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">As resistance to chemical acaricides increases amongst tick populations, investigations of natural remedies that have acaricidal or tick-repellent effects have become essential in the search for alternatives for sustainable tick control. Garlium GEM HC (Garlium), a natural concentrated garlic product, was supplemented in-feed to beef cattle to determine if it could assist in reducing the number of attached ticks on cattle. Two grams of Garlium was supplemented daily to eight Bonsmara steers over 43 days. A second group of eight steers served as controls. All animals were infested with a similar number of <em>Rhipicephalus appendiculatus</em> adults and <em>Rhipicephalus microplus</em> larvae. Subsequently, the number of attached engorged ticks and the hatchability of the tick eggs were determined. Blood samples were collected from the steers for whole blood analyses. The results were analysed using a two-sample t-test procedure. Due to large standard deviations observed, most of the tick parameters were only numerically improved. Although not significant, the number of larvae produced by female <em>R. appendiculatus</em> ticks per host was reduced by 23%. Estimated number of <em>R. microplus</em> larvae produced from ticks harvested from Garlium supplemented cattle were reduced by 42.3% (<em>p</em> = 0.10). No adverse effect was observed on haematocrits or haemoglobin concentrations. Garlium reduced segmented neutrophil count in the treatment group, suggesting that the immune system was less challenged. Although not statistically significant, the effect of reducing the number of larvae produced per host for the two tick species by approximately 20% and 40% respectively, may be of economic benefit to commercial cattle farmers.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/553Helminth parasites of impalas, Aepyceros melampus (Lichtenstein) (Ruminantia: Bovidae), in the Kruger National Park, South Africa: infection patterns from birth to adulthood2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00IG HorakK JunkerGJ Gallivan
<p>There is limited information on the development of helminth burdens of wild ungulates. This study examined the development of helminth burdens of impalas from birth to adulthood in the southern Kruger National Park, South Africa, based on systematic monthly collections of helminths from lambs, yearling and adult impalas at two sites over the course of a year. Eighteen species of nematodes, two trematode taxa and three species of cestodes were collected. Six species,<em> Cooperia hungi, Cooperioides hamiltoni, </em><em>Impalaia tuberculata, Strongyloides papillosus, Trichostrongylus deflexus</em> and <em>Trichostrongylus thomasi,</em> each collected from > 75% of the impalas, accounted for > 90% of adult gastrointestinal nematodes. Infection with adult nematodes occurred in the first month of life and all lambs were infected with adults and L4 larvae by the second month. Intensities of infection of adult nematodes and larvae in lambs increased until November when they were similar to those of yearlings and adults. Adult female impalas had a lower intensity of infection of adult nematodes than males from April to July, and a higher intensity of infection from October to December. Intensity of infection of L4 larvae was higher in adult females than adult males throughout the year. These patterns were seen in the most common nematodes, but were more variable for the less common nematodes, trematodes and cestodes. The ratio of L4 larvae to adult nematodes was lowest in lambs and highest in adult impalas. Our results emphasised the importance of age, sex and season as potential sources of variation in specific parasite burdens.</p>
2023-09-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/558Urethral cutaneous fistula correction using an autologous tunica vaginalis pedicle flap in a four-year-old intact male German shepherd dog2023-09-26T13:09:40+00:00KM van de WeteringRC Elliott
<p>Urethral cutaneous fistulas are rarely reported in dogs. Several techniques have been described to treat urethrocutaneous fistulas with different degrees of success. This case report is on a four-year-old male intact German shepherd diagnosed with urethrocutaneous fistulas after two weeks of dysuria. The urethra was repaired using an autologous tunica vaginalis pedicle flap after open castration and scrotal ablation. The dog was catheterised for two weeks after which a positive contrast urethrogram revealed a healed urethra with no stricture or leakage into surrounding tissue. The dog was discharged the following day after normal urination. Follow-up examination with the referring veterinarian at five months confirmed that the dog was clinically healthy and urinating normally. Literature about urethrocutaneous fistulas is lacking in the small animal field. To our knowledge there are no reports in the literature describing the use of an autologous tunica vaginalis pedicle flap for the repair of a urethral defect in dogs. This case report describes a novel technique to treat urethrocutaneous fistulas in an intact male dog.</p>
2023-09-26T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/575Use of etorphine hydrochloride for immobilisation of Nubian giraffe for wire snare removal: a retrospective study2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00S BarnesJ LubegaK MamaM DriciruS RaoS FergusonMJ Sadar
<p>The critically endangered Nubian giraffe (<em>Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis</em>) is distributed in small, fragmented populations across East Africa. Safe immobilisation to facilitate animal monitoring, care, and translocation is important for management directed at ensuring long term survival. Due to a high incidence of reported complications, including mortality during giraffe immobilisations, there is a need for developing and refining techniques and sharing information to facilitate widespread application. This retrospective study utilised immobilisation data acquired during wire snare removals from 80 Nubian giraffe induced with intramuscular etorphine hydrochloride. Recorded data included age (adult, subadult), sex, estimated weight, body condition score, induction and reversal drug dosage, induction time, quality of induction, duration of the procedure, time to reversal administration, and snare wound characteristics. There were no statistically significant differences between males and females for induction quality (<em>p</em> > 0.99), induction time (<em>p</em> = 0.72), and procedure time (<em>p</em> = 0.18). No significant differences were noted between adults and subadults for induction quality (<em>p</em> = 0.16) and procedure time (<em>p</em> = 0.35). There was a significant difference in induction time between adults (7.58 ± 0.42 minutes) and subadults (5.65 ± 0.56 minutes) (<em>p</em> < 0.01). On average, adults received 12.4 mg etorphine while subadults received 11.6 mg. Wound severity did not have a significant impact on induction quality. No mortality was observed. Based on these data, etorphine hydrochloride, followed by rapid reversal, was safe for induction of Nubian giraffe presenting for snare removal and should be considered in similar circumstances.</p>
2023-09-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/569Laboratory-based longitudinal surveillance of malignant catarrhal fever in Lephalale municipality in Limpopo province, South Africa: 2001–20212023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00E SeakamelaDD LazarusD MalemaA LubisiI Matle
<p>Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is a fatal viral disease of domestic cattle, but pigs, buffaloes, bison and deer have also been reported to be affected by this disease. MCF is caused by alcelaphine herpesvirus 1 (AlHV-1) which is primarily carried and transmitted by wildebeest. It is also caused by the ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2) which is commonly carried and transmitted by sheep. In South Africa, the wildebeest-associated MCF form is prevalent and has serious economic and animal welfare impact for cattle farmers located close to farms and ranches where wildebeest are kept. However, the occurrence of MCF and its contribution to cattle mortalities has been poorly studied in livestock farms in the Lephalale municipality of Limpopo province where cattle and wildebeest cohabit. The aim of this study was to provide laboratory-based surveillance data that describes the occurrence of MCF in the Lephalale municipality for the period spanning 2001 to 2021. Laboratory registry data for 385 samples were analysed. The data included the date of sampling, sample type, animal species, location and the MCF test result (PCR and/or histopathology). Altogether, 57.4% (<em>n</em> = 221) of the samples were positive with a frequency of detection of 86.4% (<em>n</em> = 191) and 13.6% (<em>n</em> = 30) for samples tested using PCR and histopathology respectively. Of the PCR-positive samples, 99.5% were positive for AIHV-1 and 0.5% for OvHV-2. AIHV-1 infection was recorded during various seasons throughout the two decades while OvHV-2 was only reported in spring of the year 2010. Moreover, AIHV-1 was detected with a high frequency in blood (66.5%), brain (22.5%) and organ (10.5%) samples from different areas within the municipality, while OvHV-2 was only detected in blood (0.5%) samples. A retrospective study such as this provides useful information on the occurrence of MCF in the Lephalale municipality. Data from this study suggests that MCF caused by AIHV-1 is regularly diagnosed in the Lephalale municipality with concomitant adverse effects on the cattle population. Therefore, there is a need to formulate policies and strategies for disease control and enhance farmer education on the epidemiology of the disease within the study area to improve animal health and production.</p>
2023-09-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/573African horse sickness vaccination status correlated with disease outcome in South Africa2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00ML GenisJE CraffordCT WeyerD PollardJD GrewarAJ Guthrie
<p style="font-weight: 400;">African horse sickness (AHS) is one of the economically most important equid diseases in southern Africa, contributing significantly to equine morbidity and mortality. Annual vaccination with the Onderstepoort Biological Products polyvalent live attenuated vaccine has been the mainstay of prevention in South Africa. The study objectives were to determine if there is a significant relationship between multiple variables (vaccination status, number of AHSV [African horse sickness virus] serotypes contracted, clinical presentation, order of vaccine administration, age, sex and mean Ct value) and case outcome. The study population consisted of samples of AHS cases from South Africa submitted to the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, University of Pretoria, that were confirmed positive by real-time RT qPCR from 1 September 2017 to 30 June 2019 with a definitive disease outcome. At a univariable level, unvaccinated horses were 8.7 times more likely to die compared with horses that were vaccinated annually. Vaccination status was not statistically significant at a multivariable level, possibly due to insufficient sample size. Annual vaccination was shown to be protective. The pulmonary form of the disease and a lower Ct value had an increased likelihood of non-survival. Vaccination order was significant at a multivariable level (AHS2 vaccine administered first had a higher likelihood of survival). The study confirmed that increased case fatality was not due to vaccine failure but instead due to multiple variables, with an increased population of unvaccinated horses being one of these.</p>
2023-09-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/548Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection of goats and sheep in the Khomas region of Namibia2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00A SamkangeS ChitangaGN Tjipura-ZaireVG MutjavikuaJW SmithL NevesT Matjila
<p>This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence levels of <em>Toxoplasma gondii</em> in small ruminants (goats and sheep) and the associated risk factors in the Khomas region of Namibia. A total of 299 and 345 sheep and goat sera from 22 farming establishments were tested, respectively. An IDEXX Toxotest Ab<sup>®</sup>, a commercial ELISA kit, was used to screen for IgG antibodies to <em>T. gondii</em>. Overall, 3.68% (11/299) of the sheep sera were positive, and 61.54% (8/13) of the sheep flocks tested had at least one positive animal. Only one of the 345 goat sera from 19 flocks was positive, giving animal-level and herd-level prevalences of 0.29% and 5.26%, respectively. Sheep flocks had significantly greater animal-level and flock-level prevalences than goats (<em>p</em> < 0.05) and were 13.14 times more likely to be seropositive (OR = 13.14; CI 95%: 1.686–102.382) than goat flocks. A questionnaire was also administered to identify any putative risk factors associated with seropositivity. Eight risk factors were evaluated, including the total number of goats, total number of sheep, farm size, average rainfall, presence of wild Felidae (African lions, caracals, cheetahs and leopards), presence of domesticated and stray cats and history of abortions in the flocks. Seropositivity to <em>T. gondii</em> in sheep was positively associated with the total number at the farming establishment, history of abortions and farm size (<em>p</em> < 0.05), but not with goats. The study determined that sheep in the Khomas region were probably more exposed to <em>T. gondii</em> infection than goats. It also found <em>T. gondii</em> seroprevalences that were much lower than those in similar studies from other countries in the sub-region and elsewhere.</p>
2023-09-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/535Airborne bacteria in veterinary surgical theatres in South Africa2023-09-26T13:10:20+00:00C van der MerweV Naidoo
<p>The bioaerosol composition of the theatre environment plays a determining role in the development of surgical site infections (SSIs). It has been demonstrated that the concentration of viable airborne bacteria is influenced by the level of room occupancy, utilisation of surgical attire and importantly, proper ventilation systems, which are often lacking in the average veterinary facility.</p> <p>The aim of this study was to evaluate the airborne bacterial load encountered in non-environmentally controlled small animal veterinary theatres during routine surgical sterilisations, and to correlate these findings with the managerial practices at the facility.</p> <p>Four veterinary facilities with differing throughputs and managerial practices were recruited into the study. Blood agar settle plates, open from first incision to last suture, were used to quantify organisms that could settle in an incision.</p> <p>The 45 plates yielded 487 bacterial isolates (53 species). The <em>Micrococcus</em> (28.8%) and <em>Staphylococcus</em> (16.8%) genera were predominant. Of the isolates 61.8% were classified as human/small animal commensals and 37.2% belonged to species previously implicated in small animal SSIs.</p> <p>Specific trends were additionally evident in the bioaerosol loads. High room occupancy, lack of surgical attire and exposure to the outside environment were associated with higher bacterial counts. Accumulation from consecutive procedures was identified and linked to total occupancy time of the room. Current mitigation measures were not ideal to minimise the SSI risk. Routine, frequent and thorough cleaning in combination with surgical attire utilisation is recommended to reduce the bioburden for patient benefit.</p>
2023-09-26T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/567Efficacy and safety of three different opioid-based immobilisation combinations in blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi)2023-09-26T13:09:39+00:00A RougC SmithJP RaathLCR MeyerLL Laubscher
<p style="font-weight: 400;">African wildlife species are increasingly being immobilised with combinations of a low dose of potent opioids combined with medetomidine and azaperone. The physiological effects of these combinations in comparison to conventional potent opioidazaperone combinations have scarcely been evaluated. In this cross-over study conducted on eight captive blesbok, we compared the physiological variables of blesbok immobilised with 2 mg of thiafentanil + 10 mg of azaperone (TA); 0.5 mg thiafentanil + 1.5 mg medetomidine (TM), and 0.5 mg thiafentanil + 1.5. mg medetomidine + 10 mg azaperone (TMA). Thiafentanil’s effects were antagonised with naltrexone at 10 mg naltrexone per mg thiafentanil, and the medetomidine effects with atipamezole at 5 mg atipamezole per mg medetomidine. The physiological variables were compared between treatment groups using descriptive statistics and repeated measures ANOVA. The TA combination resulted in the shortest induction and recovery times, higher heart rates, respiratory rates, PaO<sub>2</sub>, SpO<sub>2,</sub> and lower MAP and A-a gradients, but with less muscle relaxation. The TM and TMA combinations caused marked bradycardia and hypoxaemia. The hypoxaemia was most severe in animals immobilised with TMA, and four of eight blesbok immobilised had a PaO<sub>2</sub> < 35 mmHg at the 10- or 15-minute sampling point. These blesbok were provided supplementary oxygen, which corrected the hypoxaemia. The TA combinations caused the lowest degree of physiological compromise. All three combinations were effective for the immobilisation of blesbok, but as the low-dose thiafentanil and high-dose medetomidine combinations caused marked hypoxaemia, supplementary oxygen is recommended when using these combinations.</p>
2023-09-26T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/537Hepatic myxosarcoma in a domestic shorthair cat2023-06-22T11:35:57+00:00H MoosavianR GhiassiSS IzadiP AlmasiR VahabiM Fazli
<p>Myxosarcomas are rare malignant neoplasms of soft connective tissues, and there are no reports of hepatic myxosarcomas in cats. An eight-year-old male, neutered, domestic shorthair cat presented with progressive hyporexia, lethargy, and weight loss. An ultrasonography study showed a large abdominal mass connected to the liver. The cat underwent a laparotomy and the mass was removed. Histopathological evaluation of the mass supported the diagnosis of a myxosarcoma. Tumour cells were positive with vimentin and alcian blue stain, and negative with PAS, pan-cytokeratin, s100, epithelial membrane antigen, and α-smooth muscle actin. The Ki-67 index by immunohistochemistry was 6%. The cat was euthanased due to severe lethargy and recumbency. Myxoid soft tissue neoplasms are very rare in cats, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a hepatic myxosarcoma in a cat. In the present case, the diagnosis was made based on histopathological and immunohistochemical findings and an alcian blue-positive supporting matrix.</p>
2023-06-22T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/506A retrospective review of the histopathology of captive hornbill chicks2023-09-13T10:31:48+00:00EP MitchellL KempK KoeppelAP Guiot
<p><strong>Background and objectives:</strong> Captive rearing of chicks can be crucial to the success of management plans for endangered species of birds. This study was conducted to document lesions of hornbill chicks to provide information for pathologists and clinicians to improve rearing success in captive hornbills.</p> <p><strong>Methods:</strong> Clinical histories and post-mortem reports were evaluated for 40 hornbill chicks (< 3.5 months old), from three species submitted for pathological evaluation to the National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute between 2003 and 2017. The cause of death and histological features present were tabulated.</p> <p><strong>Results:</strong> In this group of chicks, 12 (30%) were a week or younger at the time of death. Bacterial infections, especially of the lung and gastro-intestinal tract, were the most common cause of death (38%). Visceral gout, renal tubular degeneration or necrosis, bacterial ventriculitis and pulmonary congestion were the most often recorded lesions. Splenic, thymic and bursal lymphoid depletion and/or necrosis were common. Chicks of all ages commonly showed hepatocyte vacuolar degeneration; and hepatic, renal and splenic haematopoiesis of no pathological significance.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> This long-term survey in captive hornbill chicks provides baseline information on lesions and conditions seen in these birds and facilitated the formulation of improved captive management manuals of hornbills. Additional detailed postmortem examinations following standardised protocols, including bacterial culture, of hornbill chicks would further improve our understanding of hornbill chick diseases.</p>
2023-09-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/540Application of the Alivecor KardiaMobile smartphone modulated ECG device for use in horses2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00G PikethA WilliamsEC Schliewert
<p>Electrocardiography is the method used to monitor the electrical impulses in the heart. These diagnostics are increasingly making use of smartphone-based technologies. </p> <p>The objective of this research was to determine whether the Alivecor KardiaMobile (ECG<sub>AKM</sub>) smartphone-modulated electrocardiographic device, a novel ECG device, can be used to obtain reliable electrocardiogram (ECG) readings in horses.</p> <p>The device was initially tested in 36 Nooitgedacht pony mares to determine the best site of application, method of skin preparation, and ECG<sub>AKM</sub> device orientation for reliable ECG tracings. Once the most reliable site for ECG acquisition was determined, the device was then applied, in this manner, to 31 Nooitgedacht pony mares and compared with a standard telemetric ECG system (ECG<sub>TV</sub>).</p> <p>The ECG<sub>AKM</sub> device was best applied in the fourth intercostal space on the left hemithorax in a vertical orientation and with the skin dampened with 70% ethanol. Mean values determined for RR and QT intervals between the ECG<sub>AKM</sub> and ECG<sub>TV</sub> were not significantly different, however, mean values for the duration of the QRS complexes were significantly different for the two devices. There is acceptable agreement between the ECG<sub>TV</sub> and ECG<sub>AKM</sub> devices with regards to the measurement of the PQ; RR and QT intervals but not the QRS duration. The automatically calculated heart rate is not an accurate measure of true heart rate.</p> <p>The Alivecor KardiaMobile (ECG<sub>AKM</sub>) device can be considered as a simplified screening ECG device in situations where the more standardised system is either unavailable or impractical, but has some limitations.</p>
2023-06-22T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/541A new approach to the vasectomy of African lions (Panthera leo)2023-05-31T12:15:35+00:00BAT GazendamOH MonakaliN Landman KN Koeppel
<p>Four healthy, male, adult African lions (<em>Panthera leo</em>) were presented for vasectomy, which was performed for management purposes. After immobilisation with medetomidine and tiletamine/zolazepam the lions were intubated and anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. In each animal, the ductus deferens was located bilaterally, dissected and transected. Following ligation, a technique commonly used in human medicine called fascial interposition, was used to decrease the chances of recanalisation. Using this technique, the prostatic end of the ductus was fixated outside the tunica vaginalis, while the testicular end remained within the tunic. Histopathology was performed in all cases to confirm the presence of the ductus deferens tissue. During the follow up, twelve months later, no complications were noticed by the owner and no new litters have been born since.</p>
2023-05-03T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/523Lung pathology of natural Babesia rossi infection in dogs2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00C MartinS CliftA Leisewitz
<p>A proportion of <em>Babesia rossi</em> infections in dogs are classified as complicated and one of the most lethal complications is acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Most dogs that die succumb within 24 hours of presentation. The pulmonary pathology caused by <em>B. rossi</em> in dogs has not been described. The aim of this study was to provide a thorough macroscopic, histological and immunohistochemical description of the lung changes seen in dogs naturally infected with <em>B. rossi</em> that succumbed to the infection. Death was invariably accompanied by alveolar oedema. Histopathology showed acute interstitial pneumonia characterised by alveolar oedema and haemorrhages, with increased numbers of mononuclear leucocytes in alveolar walls and lumens. Intra-alveolar polymerised fibrin aggregates were observed in just over half the infected cases. Immunohistochemistry showed increased numbers of MAC387- and CD204-reactive monocyte-macrophages in alveolar walls and lumens, and increased CD3 reactive T-lymphocytes in alveolar walls, compared with controls. These histological features overlap to some extent (but far from perfectly) with the histological pattern of lung injury referred to as the exudative stage of diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) as is quite commonly reported in ALI/ARDS.</p>
2023-05-31T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/513Development of a novel immobilisation protocol for black-faced impala (Aepyceros melampus ssp. petersi) in Etosha National Park2023-09-26T13:10:20+00:00CH MoellerKW DelkS RaoTR LoveCC CloeteKR Mama
<p>Black-faced impala (<em>Aepyceros melampus ssp. petersi</em>) are endemic to Namibia where conservation management involves immobilisation and translocation, and mortality with current protocols is common. Critically evaluated field immobilisation protocols are needed to maximise animal safety.</p> <p>This prospective study was done in two phases: the first compared etorphine- and thiafentanil-based combinations, the second evaluated the influence of oxygen in impala receiving the thiafentanil-based combination. Animals (10 per group) received 50 mg ketamine (K) and 10 mg butorphanol (B), with either 2.0 mg etorphine (E) or 2.0 mg thiafentanil (T). A third group of ten impala were anaesthetised using TKB with supplemental nasal oxygen (O) at a rate of 5 L/minute. Behavioural, metabolic and physiological variables were assessed within five minutes of recumbency and at 10, 15, and 20 minutes post-recumbency. Statistical analyses for non-parametric data were performed to compare the treatment groups as well as time points; <em>p</em> ≤ 0.05 considered significant.</p> <p>Following darting, 7/10 EKB animals were standing when approached, compared to 2/20 in the thiafentanil treatment groups. Time to first effect was significantly higher for EKB (155 ± 105.7 seconds) compared to TKBO (61.5 ± 21.4 seconds). Time to sternal after darting was significantly higher with EKB (411.6 ± 174 seconds) compared to TKB (160.5 ± 85.4 seconds) and TKBO (166 ± 77.3 seconds).</p> <p>This study builds on previous work investigating the effects of potent opioids on impala and is the first evaluating their use in a field setting. The thiafentanil combination had a faster onset and resulted in a smoother induction than the etorphine combination. Additionally, oxygenation improved in animals receiving oxygen supplementation.</p>
2023-05-03T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/547Poikilocytosis of Angora goats is associated with erythrocyte density and reticulocytosis2023-09-26T13:10:21+00:00SDC ParsonsD BecksA VermeulenM HobsonRM WarrenE Hooijberg
<p>Angora goats in South Africa experience several syndromes that result in notable morbidity and mortality in juveniles and adults, but not kids. Insight into their causes is hampered by the lack of normal reference values for this breed, and the present study therefore aimed to characterise (1) differences in the haematology of healthy kids at birth and weaning, and (2) the haematology of apparently healthy yearlings. Selected variables were measured by blood smear analysis, and complete blood counts were performed using an ADVIA 2120i. Variables at 1, 11, and 20 weeks of age were compared using the Friedman test and associations between variables of yearlings were determined by correlation analysis. In kids, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and poikilocytosis increased over time, while mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) decreased. Yearlings displayed a lower MCHC, and higher haemoglobin distribution width than previously reported for goats, and these were positively correlated with poikilocytosis, as were reticulocyte counts. White cell counts of yearlings exceeded normal values previously reported for goats, with some individuals displaying remarkably high mature neutrophil counts. Changes in haemoglobin variant expression or cation and water fluxes are possible explanations for the findings in kids, while in yearlings, the associations between MCHC, HDW, poikilocytosis, and reticulocytosis suggest alterations in red cell hydration in adulthood that are associated with increased red cell turnover. These findings may prove informative in the further investigation of various clinical syndromes in this population.</p>
2023-05-03T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/527Evidence for a host switching in the maintenance of canid rabies variant in two wild carnivore species in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa2024-03-13T10:11:52+00:00CE NgoepeW ShumbaC Sabeta
<p>Rabies is a zoonotic infectious disease that causes at least 59 000 human deaths worldwide annually, with 95% of the cases occurring in the developing countries of Asia and Africa. There are two <em>Lyssavirus rabies </em>(RABV) variants circulating in South Africa, notably the canid and mongoose RABV biotypes. The canid RABV biotype is maintained in the domestic dog and two wild carnivore species, the black-backed jackal (<em>Canis mesomelas</em>) and the bat-eared fox (<em>Otocyon megalotis</em>). The yellow mongoose, a member of the <em>Herpestidae</em> family, is a reservoir and vector species for the mongoose RABV biotype. Rabies trends showed an increase in rabies-positive cases in aardwolves between 2011 and 2016 surpassing the bat-eared fox as the most rabies-affected wild carnivore in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. The aim of the study was to establish the genetic relationships amongst rabies viruses recovered from both the aardwolves and bat-eared foxes. A partial region of the glycoprotein gene and the variable G-L intergenic region of the viral genome were analysed using nucleotide sequences generated from PCR amplicons. The rabies viruses recovered from the aardwolves between the year 2015 and 2017 were 100% nucleotide sequence identical, suggesting a single or common source and possible evidence for a host shift. Furthermore, the phylogenetic reconstruction demonstrated that the rabies viruses obtained from the two wild carnivore species from the Northern Cape Province clustered independently of each other with 96% nucleotide sequence identity, suggesting that the aardwolf may be able to maintain the canid RABV variant in this geographical area.</p>
2024-03-13T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/544Chemical immobilisation of lions: weighing up drug effectiveness versus clinical effects2023-09-26T13:10:20+00:00AC DonaldsonA FullerLCR MeyerPE Buss
<p>Selection of an effective drug combination to immobilise African lions (<em>Panthera leo</em>) requires balancing immobilisation effectiveness with potential side effects. We compared the immobilisation effectiveness and changes to physiological variables induced by three drug combinations used for free-ranging African lions. The lions (12 animals per drug combination) were immobilised with tiletamine-zolazepam-medetomidine (TZM), ketamine-medetomidine (KM) or ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine (KBM). Induction, immobilisation, and recovery were timed, evaluated using a scoring system, and physiological variables were monitored. The drugs used for immobilisation were antagonised with atipamezole and naltrexone. The quality of induction was rated as excellent for all drug combinations and induction times (mean ± SD) did not differ between the groups (10.54 ± 2.67 min for TZM, 10.49 ± 2.63 min for KM, and 11.11 ± 2.91 min for KBM). Immobilisation depth was similar over the immobilisation period in the TZM and KBM groups, and initially light, progressing to deeper in lions administered KM. Heart rate, respiratory rate and peripheral arterial haemoglobin saturation with oxygen were within the expected range for healthy, awake lions in all groups. All lions were severely hypertensive and hyperthermic throughout the immobilisation. Following antagonism of immobilising drugs, lions immobilised with KM and KBM recovered to walking sooner than those immobilised with TZM, at 15.29 ± 10.68 min, 10.88 ± 4.29 min and 29.73 ± 14.46 min, respectively. Only one lion in the KBM group exhibited ataxia during recovery compared to live and four lions in the TZM and KM groups, respectively. All three drug combinations provided smooth inductions and effective immobilisations but resulted in hypertension. KBM had an advantage of allowing for shorter, less ataxic recoveries.</p>
2023-03-10T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/518Liver moisture content in animals and possible causes of variations in hepatic dry matter content2023-02-24T05:39:46+00:00JBJ Van RyssenEC WebbJG Myburg
<p>The concentration of trace elements in the liver is used as an indicator of the mineral nutritional status of an animal, as a benchmark of environmental mineral exposure, to follow the metabolism of an element in the body and for various other purposes. Concentrations are expressed on a wet (fresh) liver basis or on a dry liver basis. From a literature search and evidence from an analytical laboratory, large variations (varying from < 20% to > 40%) have been recorded on the percentage of moisture in the livers of ruminants. Such variations potentially compromise the interpretation of results on mineral concentrations in livers, and preclude robust comparisons between studies. Among the factors that can affect the moisture content of livers are: inconsistencies in sampling and preparation of liver samples; exposure to toxic substances; ill-health of the animal; fat content of the liver; and age of the animal. It was estimated that the mean dry matter (DM) content of the livers of healthy ungulates containing less than 1% liver fat is between 27.5% and 28.5%, and on a fat-free basis 25–26% DM. For routine analyses of liver samples it is suggested that to limit variations owing to differences in liver moisture content, liver mineral concentrations should be expressed on a DM basis and for in-depth scientific studies on mineral metabolism on a dry, fat-free basis. However, if mineral concentrations are expressed on a wet basis, it is advisable to supply the liver DM content as well.</p>
2023-02-24T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/520Learning outcomes for the education and training of laboratory animal caretakers in South Africa2023-02-24T05:39:46+00:00AJ MohrJS MagagulaDI Lewis
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Education and training is essential for laboratory animal caretakers (LACs), but there are no courses available in South Africa. A national workshop was thus held to collaboratively establish the learning outcomes (LOs) for the education and training (E&T) of LACs. Eighty-five stakeholders from 30 institutions took part in small group discussions interspersed with plenary sessions to draw up the consensus LOs.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">One-hundred-and-twenty LOs were identified, grouped into the following three main themes and 15 topics: 1) Focus on animals (animal care and husbandry, animal ethics, animal welfare, basic biology, environment); 2) Focus on humans (administration, health and safety, lifelong learning, professionalism, psychological wellbeing); and 3) Focus on systems (biosecurity, equipment, jurisprudence, logistics, and quality management).</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">This E&T framework provides a foundation for a career path in the laboratory animal science field. The psychological (i.e. mental and emotional) wellbeing of LACs forms a noteworthy component of the focus on humans, since working with research animals is stressful and coping mechanisms are needed in order to promote compassion satisfaction and prevent compassion fatigue and burnout.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">Approximately 75% of the LOs are knowledge-based, while 25% are competencies in practical skills. It is recommended that competencies should be assessed by direct observation of practical/procedural skills, where competence in a procedure or practical task is assessed against predetermined criteria.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">These LOs are published with the intent that they will promote animal and human wellbeing, support ethical science, maintain public confidence, and in so doing, contribute to a just and civilised society.</p>
2023-02-24T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/529Life-long learning in laboratory animal science and ethics for veterinary and para-veterinary professionals in South Africa2023-02-24T05:39:46+00:00AJ MohrJK ChipanguraTA FourieK JardineDI Lewis
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Veterinary and para-veterinary professionals working in the animal research sector are critical to ensure scientific quality and the humane care and use of animals. However, there are few focused education and training opportunities available for these professionals in South Africa.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">A survey of veterinarians working in animal research, undertaken by the South African Association for Laboratory Animal Science, identified the need for more advanced education and training opportunities beyond the routine Day 1 Skills currently provided for in undergraduate education. These could be broadly categorised into knowledge and skills relating to species-specific husbandry, procedures and clinical approaches, research-related biosecurity and biosafety, and study-specific ethical and animal welfare considerations.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">A subsequent workshop, attended by 85 veterinary and para-veterinary professionals in the animal research sector, identified 53 life-long learning needs, each with an associated learning outcome, for this professional community. These were grouped into five overarching themes: Personal development (9); Leadership and management skills (12); Education and training skills (5); Welfare, ethics and clinical skills (20); and Regulations and quality-assurance (7). Of the 53 learning outcomes, 14 were knowledge-based, ten were competencies, and 29 both knowledge and competence.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">These life-long learning opportunities, if available and implemented, will address important needs of veterinary and paraveterinary professionals in the animal research sector in South Africa. This would empower these professionals, assist in improving animal and human wellbeing, support high-quality ethical science, and maintain public confidence in the sector, thus enabling a more satisfactory career environment.</p>
2023-02-24T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of the South African Veterinary Associationhttps://jsava.co.za/index.php/jsava/article/view/490Prevalence of radiographic changes in forelimb digits and metacarpophalangeal joints of South African endurance racehorses2022-11-07T10:27:51+00:00E HollenbachMP RobertC le RouxY Smit
<p>If the number of events alone is considered, endurance riding is the fastest growing and the second-most popular Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) discipline. Lameness is the most common cause of elimination from endurance races worldwide. To the authors’ knowledge, no studies have been published investigating the prevalence of radiographic changes in the forelimb digits and metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP) of endurance racehorses in South Africa.</p> <p>The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of radiographic changes in the forelimb digits and MCP joints of South African endurance racehorses.</p> <p>One hundred endurance racehorses registered with ERASA were volunteered by their owners to partake in the current study. Radiographs were obtained from horses competing in endurance races during the 2018–2019 endurance racing season. Radiographs included seven standard views of each distal forelimb. Radiographic images were independently evaluated by three observers, point prevalence and inter-rater reliability (IRR) was calculated.</p> <p>Data analysis of the forelimb digits revealed a large proportion of horses with bilateral signs of dorsopalmar hoof imbalance (95%); a diversion from a straight digital axis (91%), with an extended (broken back) proximal interphalangeal joint (67%) being the most common abnormality. Osteoarthritis of the proximal (16%) and distal (7%) interphalangeal joints was only observed in a low percentage of horses. Interestingly, the hoof-distal-phalanx-ratio of the majority (86%) of horses was more than 25% but none of these horses showed any other signs of chronic laminitis, indicating that hoof-distal-phalanx-ratio might not be a reliable indicator of chronic laminitis in this population of horses. Ossification of the ungular cartilages was observed in the majority (69%) of horses, either affecting one or both distal phalanges. Descriptive data analysis of the MCP joints showed that a large proportion of horses displayed radiological signs of MCP joint osteoarthritis (28%), with 10% being bilateral.</p> <p>The current study provides insight into radiographic changes and their prevalence in the distal front limbs of South African endurance racehorses. Knowledge about the prevalence of specific radiographic changes would enable equine practitioners to better evaluate and manage horses that are affected. Although no correlations were made with age, speed or number of competitive kilometres competed, the current study may serve as a basis for future research.</p>
2022-11-07T00:00:00+00:00Copyright (c) 2022 Journal of the South African Veterinary Association