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Veterinary Technician Pursues Interest in Veterinary Neurology
November 5th, 2009
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Stephanie Gilliam, RVT, CCPR, with one of her favorite patients. Susan, a pointer, had spinal surgery nearly two years ago. She never regained feeling in her back legs, but, as Gilliam says, “She is still just as happy as can be!”
Stephanie Gilliam, RVT, CCPR, with one of her favorite patients. Susan, a pointer, had spinal surgery nearly two years ago. She never regained feeling in her back legs, but, as Gilliam says, “She is still just as happy as can be!”
Veterinary Technicians-Supporting the Advancement of Veterinary Research One Patient at a Time
Stephanie Gilliam pursues her interest in veterinary neurology
Working in the neurology/neurosurgery department at a veterinary teaching hospital can be emotionally difficult-not every patient walks away. Yet recoveries make every challenge worthwhile for Stephanie Gilliam, a registered veterinary technician (RVT) who works as the neurology/neurosurgery technician at the University of Missouri Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.
“A lot of our patients are completely paralyzed or close to it when they come to us,” explains Gilliam, who is certified in canine physical rehabilitation. “The day we see them move their legs or walk on their own is the greatest. That is why I do what I do.”
Gilliam, who has worked at the university-in a research laboratory with Morris Animal Foundation (MAF)-funded researchers and at the teaching hospital-collaborates with veterinary medical students and neurology specialists to treat a variety of ailments that affect the nervous system.
The most common diseases are intervertebral disk disease and seizures, says Gilliam, who adds, “Most of these patients recover just fine and end up living normal happy lives.”
Ever since she was a kid, Gilliam knew she wanted to work with animals, but a job with Dr. Joe Kornegay, a veterinary neurologist who specializes in muscular dystrophy research, stoked her interest in neurology research.
“That is when I started to love neurology,” she says. “My favorite part of it is the surgery cases, but the medical cases are interesting as well. Who doesn’t think that brain surgery is interesting?”
Hands-on experience has given Gilliam a keen sense of respect for the important role research plays in the health and wellness of animals and, by extension, people.
“Our patients are living longer, happier lives because of research,” she says. “We are constantly finding new treatments, surgical procedures, etc., to help animals live longer lives. Research is essential to both human and veterinary medicine.”
At the teaching hospital, researchers are studying a canine disease called degenerative myelopathy, a spontaneously occurring spinal cord disorder in adult dogs. The Foundation has funded at least 25 animal health studies at the university, including a Veterinary Student Scholar project that addressed this disorder.
“Dr. Joan Coates, a veterinary neurologist [and a team of researchers, including MAF-funded Veterinary Student Scholar Rachael Cohen] discovered the gene that they believe to be responsible for degenerative myelopathy,” says Gilliam.
To read more about this MAF-funded Veterinary Student Scholar study, titled “Risk Factors for Spinal Cord Injury,” visit the MAF Web site. Information about the Veterinary Student Scholar program is also posted online.
Dr. Coates’s study was originally funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation.
Recent findings from the university indicate that the gene believed to cause degenerative myelopathy also causes Lou Gehrig’s disease in people.
“We are still working to learn more about this disease so that we can hopefully help the dogs as well as the people living with it,” Gilliam adds.
While Gilliam loves her work, she recognizes limitations to what medical professionals can accomplish. And, as an animal lover, that reality is a frequent source of frustration.
“The most challenging aspect [of my job] is the fact that we can’t ‘cure’ every patient,” she says.
Rare Births of Captive Clouded Leopard Cubs
November 5th, 2009
MAF funding may lead to rare births of captive clouded leopard cubs
by Heather Grimshaw
From AnimalNews 9.1
The clouded leopard population is in dire straits. Only 78 cats remain in the North American Clouded Leopard Species Survival conservation program. Because of various factors—including a high rate of males killing females and reproductive issues—their numbers continue to fall.
But Morris Animal Foundation (MAF)–funded efforts to develop hormone protocols for artificial insemination show promise—and soon, a baby may be on the way.
With MAF funding, Dr. Katey Pelican and Dr. JoGayle Howard at the Smithsonian Institution learned that ovulation cycles in clouded leopards differ from those of other cats. About 50 percent of clouded leopards ovulate spontaneously after estrus (heat) in contrast to ovulation induced only by breeding (typical for most cats). After studying hormone prototocols in 38 animals, several clouded leopards were inseminated using the optimum hormones.
The collaborating zoos fed female clouded leopards meatballs injected with “whopping” levels of progesterone to shut the ovaries down. Then injections of ovarian-stimulating hormones brought the cats into heat so the team could schedule the insemination with the synchronized ovulations. If all goes well, the resulting babies will be the first clouded leopards born in the United States since 2003.
Mystifying creatures
Described as little acrobats that swing on the tiniest limbs, clouded leopards have enormous paws and dart down trees vertically. Males, at about 50 pounds, are almost twice the size of females and have the longest canine teeth of any cat species.
Most clouded leopards in the United States are close cousins, if not siblings, which poses a genetic diversity quagmire. To address the problem, a consortium of conservation agencies began a breeding and research program in Thailand. However, environmental stress, confined cages, inconsistent keepers and limited nesting boxes in this country stack the deck against mating. Most attempts to pair clouded leopards result in fatalities, though Pelican notes that once cats pair up, they breed regularly.
Better breeding in the works
Pelican and Howard broadened the research to include ways to reduce stress and enrich gene pools naturally. They discovered that introducing males to females while the male is still young (about 1 year old) and hasn’t hit puberty reduces its aggression toward potential mates. The team also brought six cubs from Thailand, where 39 clouded leopards have been born since 2002. Cubs from this area are genetically valuable because they are not closely related to the North American cats and will help diversify the gene pool. The goal is to bring the population
total to 120 cats in North America.
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Web Exclusive Discusses Why Wildlife Health Matters
November 2nd, 2009
Web Exclusive Discusses Why Wildlife Health Matters, Features Joan Embery
Morris Animal Foundation Videos Illustrate Connection Between Humans, Pets and Wildlife
Wildlife animal health affects our world in a myriad of ways. To connect the dots between wild habitats and your backyard, Morris Animal Foundation created an online wildlife health exclusive, which features veterinary professionals, animal health advocate Joan Embery and adorable examples of wildlife. The exclusive (http://www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/wildlifeweb/) has six short videos that illustrate how wildlife animals affect you and your pets, articles with additional information and a list of helpful resources.
Morris Animal Foundation, a Denver-based nonprofit, is a world leader in funding wildlife health research that helps animals escape extinction, extend life span and repopulate.
Foundation executives and veterinarians Patricia Olson and Wayne Jensen talk about the importance of establishing medical markers for wildlife and ensuring survival of unique and ecologically valuable species. They are joined online by University of California-Davis researchers who are using Foundation funding to study seals, sea otters and endangered Santa Catalina Island foxes.
Embery, who is known for her appearances on the “Johnny Carson Show,” celebrates many species on her Pillsbury Ranch in San Diego and introduces Yoda, a fennec fox that is sure to steal hearts. She talks about the concept of “one health” and the importance of wildlife research and conservation efforts.
“Increasingly, as we crowd this earth, we will be affected more and more by wildlife diseases,” says Dr. Barbara Wolfe, DVM, PhD. Wolfe is a former chair of the Foundation’s Wildlife Scientific Advisory Board, which reviews hundreds of Morris Animal Foundation grant submissions from around the world.
Learn more at www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/wildlifeweb.
National Canine Health Initiative Discussed
October 29th, 2009
National Canine Health Initiative Discussed at Golden Retriever Foundation Annual Gala
Denver/Oct. 27, 2009 — Though one of America’s favorite breeds, golden retrievers are also the No. 1 dog breed to get cancer, and more than half of those diagnosed will die of the disease. That statistic may change in the future. Morris Animal Foundation is planning to launch a new National Canine Health Initiative in 2010. David Kinghorn, president of the Golden Retriever Foundation, discussed Morris Animal Foundation’s cancer initiative at the organization’s annual gala Oct. 26, 2009.
Morris Animal Foundation will announce specific project details in the spring, but the goal of the initiative is to determine the genetic, nutritional and environmental risk factors for cancer. While studying cancer risks, researchers will also be able to capture risks for other chronic diseases. To begin, Morris Animal Foundation will be recruiting 1,000 golden retrievers that are healthy and cancer free. As additional funding becomes available, golden retriever puppies and other breeds will be added to the project. The study will last throughout the lifetimes of the enrolled dogs—making it the largest study of its kind for dogs—and will be supervised by scientists, veterinarians and project managers. Considerable information will be obtained on each dog throughout its life, including what it eats and whether it is exposed to potential carcinogens.
The Golden Retriever Foundation is a longstanding partner in the fight against canine cancer, and the organization will be instrumental in helping Morris Animal Foundation move forward with this cancer initiative.
Betty White Brings Safe Watch by Monsignor and MAF Together
October 28th, 2009
Betty White Brings Safe Watch by Monsignor and Morris Animal Foundation Together to Benefit Senior Community
National Roll-Out Campaign Set for November with Spokesperson, Actress Betty White…
Nashville, TN, October 26, 2009-Scheduled for a November roll-out starting in the states of Tennessee and Florida, Tennessee home-based Safe Watch by Monsignor has created a new technology designed to empower senior citizens in their independence. Named the number 1 safety device for seniors, Safe Watch is a combination of technology’s most recent advancements. It’s a watch, it’s cellular and it’s the smallest GPS tracking device in the world. The watch utilizes cutting edge technology to provide security and comfort to the senior community with instant access to emergency help, critical medical information and personal emergency contacts.
Recently Safe Watch endorsement spots were filmed in Los Angeles with beloved actress and animal lover, Betty White. Betty introduced Morris Animal Foundation (of which she has been a trustee for the past forty two years) to Monsignor C. Riley, president and CEO of Safe Watch by Monsignor. At her request, Paul Raybould, executive vice president of the organization, flew out to Nashville to present the foundation and its story to Monsignor and the Safe Watch team.
“After hearing the background and scope of the Morris Foundation I understand why Betty loves them so much and wanted us to forge an alliance with them,” shares Monsignor. “We are proud to support the Morris Animal Foundation and their scientific breakthrough cures for animal diseases. Pets are a proven comfort to the senior community, which makes supporting the foundation very fulfilling.” Safe Watch by Monsignor has committed to 4 years of a portion of product sales proceeds to benefit the organization.
Identifying Drugs that Could Manage Obesity in Cats
October 26th, 2009
Study Results:
Obesity in cats has reached epidemic proportions: An estimated 20 to 48 percent of owned cats are now overweight. Obese cats are more likely to develop health problems, such as diabetes, skin conditions, heart disease and severe lameness. Researchers at Auburn University investigated whether they could use drugs to act on two protein molecules in the brain, known as melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 receptors, to treat obesity in cats. They hypothesized that drugs targeting the melanocortin-3 receptor may decrease fat storage, whereas drugs acting on the melanocortin-4 receptor may decrease food intake and increase energy expenditure, resulting in decreased body weight. They successfully identified the sequences of these molecules and identified several drug compounds that bind to these protein molecules in a laboratory setting. These preliminary results will allow researchers to manipulate melatonin protein molecules in the brain that could help manage obesity in cats. The next step is to move this research into the clinical setting. D06FE-005
Shorter Test Accurately Assesses Behavior of Relinquished Dogs
October 26th, 2009
Study Results:
Canine behavioral problems are a leading risk factor for relinquishment of dogs to shelters. The decision to euthanize a relinquished animal with behavioral issues is often made using subjective assessments made when the animal is in the sometimes frightening and unfamiliar environment of the shelter. The Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ) is a reliable and valid method of assessing behavior and temperament traits in dogs, but its length precludes its use in many shelters. Behavioral scientists from the University of Pennsylvania tested a shortened version of the C-BARQ to determine its effectiveness as a tool for providing shelters with reliable, objective data on a dog’s behavior in the home environment. They also looked at the reliability of the behavioral information that relinquishing owners provide, in an effort to test the hypothesis that relinquishing owners conceal or understate the prevalence and severity of behavior problems if they believe information may lead to euthanasia rather than adoption of their animal. Results of the study validated that shelters can use the shortened version of the questionnaire to collect valid and reliable behavioral information from people relinquishing dogs to shelters, and that the C-BARQ may be a valuable adjunct to existing behavioral and temperament screening methods currently in use. D07CA-071
Firehouse Animal Health Centers Celebrates Human-Animal Bond
October 21st, 2009
Firehouse Animal Health Centers Celebrates Human-Animal Bond, Invests in Veterinary Medicine with Morris Animal Foundation Memorial Card
As chief medical officer for a growing veterinary hospital group in Denver, Colo., Dr. Jed Rogers recognizes the need for high-quality animal health research and timely data, which is one reason he supports Morris Animal Foundation (MAF).
For more than 61 years, the Denver-based nonprofit has funded animal health studies that provide veterinarians worldwide with tools to treat, cure and protect their patients.
“MAF is a valuable professional resource for health issues that concern us,” says Rogers, who has donated regularly on behalf of Firehouse Animal Health Centers since 2004. “We deal with complicated cases and are always searching for answers,” he adds. “Having research information at our fingertips is a big benefit.”
Firehouse Animal Health Centers support animal health studies by participating in the Foundation’s veterinary memorial card program. For a minimum $10 each, MAF sends memorial cards on behalf of Firehouse Animal Health Centers to clients who have lost beloved pets.
The cards are customized with the name of a special pet, pet parents and veterinarians involved in medical care. In addition to supporting animal health research around the world, these special pet sympathy cards celebrate the lives of special patients.
“Everyone feels just a bit better knowing that research can lead to new cures,” says Patricia Olson, DVM, PhD, president and CEO of MAF. “There is comfort in supporting scientists who diligently seek cures to the diseases that harm our loved ones.”
Each year, Firehouse co-sponsors MAF studies that reflect the needs of their patients, or support needs in the community. This year, the team will support a study to address animal cruelty and one that looks at feline kidney disease. Last year two feline health studies were selected.
“One thing we believe strongly is that cats in general are underrepresented when it comes to medical care,” says Rogers.
All of the MAF-funded research goes through a rigorous review process led by one of three scientific advisory boards. The end goal is to help veterinarians care for their patients.
“This Foundation was created by a veterinarian, and our mission is to provide new tools to veterinarians,” says Olson. “We appreciate veterinarians like Dr. Rogers and his colleagues at Firehouse Animal Health Centers, who help us explore new medical frontiers for animals.”
Learn more about MAF pet sympathy cards online.
News About Facial Cancer in Horses
October 19th, 2009
New Cancer Treatment
Research into a new treatment for squamous cell carcinoma-the most common facial cancer in horses-shows great promise.
As summer gets under way, many horse owners begin the annual campaign to protect their white-faced horses from the sun. Sun damage causes many different problems-issues ranging from a simple case of sunburn all the way to skin cancers. In fact, squamous cell carcinoma-the most common cancer affecting the eye and ocular structures of the horse-is directly linked to sun exposure. It can be painful and difficult to treat, so forewarned is forearmed! Prevention is the best way to avoid facial cancer, though new treatment options are on the horizon and show promise.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a novel approach to periocular squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC), and preliminary results suggest that it may be more effective than current treatments, require fewer treatments/shorter hospital stays and result in the preservation of eyelid function.
PSCC is a malignancy that commonly affects horses on the cornea, third eyelid or eyelid. Predisposing factors include breed (Belgians, Paints and Appaloosas most commonly), poor pigmentation (light-colored skin) and exposure to ultraviolet light at high altitudes or frequent sun exposure.
Big-picture benefits to the research, which was funded by Denver-based Morris Animal Foundation, are that the treatment may work on this type of tumor in other locations and in other species.
Prevent Sunburn and Photosensitivity
How do you know if your horse is getting sunburned? It looks just like sunburn on your own skin: pink or red skin with blistering, cracking and peeling. Horses with large white patches on their faces or heads are at higher risk, but white socks or bellies can even allow the sun to burn. If the skin underneath the white hairs is pink, be proactive to prevent sunburn in that area.
Some industry groups report that certain weeds may also increase photosensitivity in horses. These include white clover, ragwort, St. John’s wort, field bindweed and buckwheat. These weeds contain alkaloids that can cause liver damage and, subsequently, high sensitivity to the sun. Maintaining a weed-free pasture can avoid exposing a horse to additional risk.
New Treatment
If your horse develops squamous cell carcinoma there is hope. With funding from Morris Animal Foundation, Dr. Elizabeth A. Giuliano at the University of Missouri has developed a new therapy consisting of surgical resection and local photodynamic therapy.
Giuliano and her team first surgically resect the tumor and then apply laser light immediately after injecting a photodynamic drug into the tumor bed. Results from the study thus far show that the combined therapy prevents tumor recurrence, requires fewer hospital visits and has better cosmetic outcome for horses with cancer.
Case Example
Dixie, a 17-year-old gray American saddlebred horse, was the first horse to receive the treatment after her owner, Rose Pasch of Cuba, Missouri, and her veterinarian noticed that Dixie’s eye was irritated. The cause was a troublesome growth. Although it was removed the next day, the growth returned.
“It kept getting bigger, and she’d keep her eye closed all the time, and it would water, Pasch said. “It was hurting her.”
Pasch took Dixie to Dr. Giuliano, who was conducting a pilot clinical trial for PSCC treatment.
“Because the skin on the face of the horse tightly adheres to the underlying bone, we can’t do certain reconstructive procedures,” Dr. Giuliano says. “Without retaining the eyelid, it is virtually impossible to save the eye.” Losing an eye is disastrous for horses, who rely heavily on sight, especially in work and performance situations.
A standard procedure for treating PSCC cancer in horses is surgery followed by chemotherapy or freezing or burning off the tumor, but results are mixed. Using this innovative new treatment, Dr. Giuliano injects a photoreactive chemical into cells surrounding a tumor and treats the area immediately with a laser light.
“Dixie was the very first horse I treated with this therapy,” Dr. Giuliano says. “I did have to treat her twice, but she’s been cancer-free for five years.” For the pilot study, Dr. Giuliano treated 20 horses with the new therapy with encouraging results. She received a second grant to further study the treatment and is currently evaluating PSCC’s ability to inhibit tumor recurrence over time.
Thanks to Dr. Giuliano’s research, and other equine health projects being funded by Morris Animal Foundation, the hope is that Dixie-and many horses like her-will march on for many years to come.