Companion Animal Fund Grant Program

EVALUATION OF FASTING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF SERUM FOLATE, COBALAMIN, TRYPSIN-LIKE IMMUNOREACTIVITY (TLI) AND PANCREATIC LIPASE IMMUNOREACTIVITY (PLI) IN HEALTHY CATS

Principal Investigator:
Katie Anderson, Clinical Instructor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
Many dogs and cats suffer from chronic vomiting or diarrhea. To investigate the cause of these symptoms, veterinarians often recommend a blood test called a GI panel. The GI panel assesses digestive health by measuring four key markers: cobalamin (B12), folate (B9), trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI), and pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (PLI). These markers help veterinarians understand how well a pet’s intestines absorb nutrients and can help detect pancreatic diseases. These test results often guide treatment decisions, such as dietary changes, vitamin supplements, or enzyme therapy, which can improve a pet’s health and quality of life. Currently, laboratories recommend fasting a pet before performing the GI panel, but this advice has not been proven through scientific research. Our study aims to determine whether fasting is necessary before the test. Fasting can be stressful for pets and owners, and often requires an extra trip to the vet, making it crucial to confirm if fasting is truly needed.

COMPARISON OF CARPROFEN VS PREGABALIN FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT AFTER CANINE ENUCLEATION

Principal Investigator:
Kyle Bartholomew, Clinical Professor, Department of Surgical Sciences

Abstract:
Enucleation, or eye removal, is a common surgery in dogs to relieve pain and blindness. Typically, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for pain relief, but dogs with kidney issues can’t use them due to potential risks. Pregabalin, a newer pain medication, is gaining attention for its effectiveness in chronic and nerve pain, but its role in managing acute pain in dogs is still unclear. This study will compare pregabalin to carprofen, a standard NSAID, in dogs undergoing enucleation. The dogs will be assigned to receive either pregabalin or carprofen for post-surgery pain management. Pain levels will be measured at various times using a pain evaluation scale, and additional pain relief will be given as needed. The goal is to see if pregabalin can be as effective as carprofen. If successful, pregabalin could be used as an alternative for dogs that can’t take NSAIDs.

CHANGES IN SERUM AMYLOID A CONCENTRATION FOLLOWING STRESSFUL EVENTS IN HEALTHY TEACHING HORSES

Principal Investigator:
Alexandra Burton, Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
Serum Amyloid A (SSA) is a blood test commonly used in horses to detect inflammation caused by disease and infection. However, SAA is non-specific and can increase significantly in the horse after physiologic stressors such as exercise or transport. Routine diagnostics (e.g., nasogastric intubation, abdominocentesis, palpation) performed during veterinary evaluation of the sick horse also constitute physiologic stressors but their effect on SAA unknown. Our hypothesis is that some of these procedures will cause a rise in SAA, which would, in turn, affect the reliability of SAA as a diagnostic marker of disease in horses. Knowledge of the magnitude of SAA increase after these stressors will help equine veterinarians accurately interpret SAA in the sick horse undergoing diagnostic procedures as part of their disease work up.

RESPONSE OF THE CRICOARYTENOIDEUS DORSALIS MUSCLE TO ELECTRICAL STIMULATION WITH A LARYNGEAL PACEMAKER IN DOGS WITH ACQUIRED LARYNGEAL PARALYSIS

Principal Investigator:
Robb Hardie, Clinical Professor, Department of Surgical Sciences

Abstract:
Pacemakers Hold Promise for Treating Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs Abstract: Laryngeal paralysis is a relatively common problem in older, large breed dogs that results in laryngeal obstruction and subsequent respiratory distress. The current standard of care for dogs with laryngeal paralysis is a surgical procedure that opens the larynx by suturing (“tying-back”) the cartilage on one side of the larynx. The procedure is relatively successful in relieving the laryngeal obstruction, but often leads to coughing and aspiration of food and water due to the larynx being permanently open on one side. Laryngeal pacemakers, hold promise as a new and improved means of treating dogs with laryngeal paralysis. Similar to cardiac pacemakers, laryngeal pacemakers provide an electrical stimulus to the muscles that open larynx resulting in a more physiologic function compared to current surgical techniques. Laryngeal pacemakers have been used successfully in people to restore respiratory function and preserve voice and a number of clinical trials are ongoing to expand the application of this new technology. The aim of our study is to test whether a commercially available pacemaker can stimulate the muscles of the larynx and adequately open the airway in dogs with laryngeal paralysis. For this study, ten dogs undergoing the current standard of care “tie-back” procedure will also have the pacemaker temporarily placed on the muscles of the larynx. The pacemaker will be activated, and the degree of laryngeal function assessed in real-time. The results of this study will provide valuable data on the feasibility of a pacemaker to stimulate the larynx in dogs with laryngeal paralysis and ultimately lay the groundwork for clinical application in dogs. Investigators: Robert J. Hardie, DVM, Diplomate ACVS, ECVS, Clinical Professor, Small Animal Soft Tissue Surgery; Helena Rylander, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology) Clinical Professor, Neurology; Claudia S. Colón Acevedo, DVM, Resident in Small Animal Surgery

CLINICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF LOW DOSE AND HIGH DOSE TRAZADONE ON LAMENESS EVALUATION IN HORSES

Principal Investigator:
Jordan Kirkpatrick, Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Surgical Sciences

Abstract:
The goal of the research is to evaluate the effects of trazodone, a calming medication that can be given to animals prior to a potential stressful event such as veterinary examination, on gait assessment and lameness evaluation in horses. If there are minimal to no effects of trazodone on gait and lameness in horses, this medication may be able to be given to horses that become stressed by veterinary evaluations prior to their lameness assessment. This could make the assessments less stressful and safer for the horse, owner, and veterinarian without compromising the veterinarian’s ability to accurately assess gait abnormalities and lameness in the horse.

EFFECTIVENESS OF VARIOUS TICK PREVENTATIVES AGAINST BORRELIA BURGDORFERI EXPOSURE IN DOGS

Principal Investigator:
Erin Lashnits, Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi and is spread to dogs in the Upper Midwest by black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). This study will look at how well different types of tick preventatives protect dogs from exposure to Lyme disease. To do this, we will study dogs who are patients at the University of Wisconsin-Madison veterinary teaching hospital (UWVC). Dogs will be tested for Lyme disease using a routine test called the SNAP 4Dx Plus test, as well as two less commonly used blood tests. Their tick prevention methods will be checked through reviewing their medical records and confirmed directly with their owners. The main goal is to see how often dogs receiving different types of tick preventatives get exposed to Lyme disease. Secondary goals are to describe the results of lesser-known blood tests for Lyme disease, and to monitor record-keeping practices at UWVC. This study will provide insights into how effective tick preventatives are in real-world situations, helping veterinarians and dog owners choose the best tick prevention strategies.

MODELING PREEMTIVE TRANSCONDYLAR SCREW TREATMENT TO REDUCE RISK OF CONDYLAR STRESS FRACTURE IN THROROUGHBRED RACEHORSES

Principal Investigator:
Peter Muir, Professor, Department of Surgical Sciences

Abstract:
Condylar stress fracture is an economically important condition in Thoroughbred racehorses and an important welfare concern as this injury often leads to the death of the horse. Standing computed tomography (sCT) scanning of the fetlock is an important new screening approach for injury prevention that has become feasible through development of new equipment that has enabled routine imaging, improved personalized care of the individual racehorse, and virtual mechanical testing for fracture risk assessment. Using our computer modeling approach, we can now study the biomechanical effect of placement of a transcondylar screw in the cannon bone as a preemptive treatment for horses with fetlock subchondral bone fatigue injury, and test whether such treatment can reduce condylar stress fracture risk and promote bone remodeling through strain reduction in the site of injury. Positive findings will produce a beneficial impact on racehorse care, and reduction in high-speed falls will also reduce jockey injury.

QUANTIFICATION OF TARTARIC ACID AND POTASSIUM BITARTRATE CONCENTRATION IN GRAPES, RAISINS, AND RELATED PROCESSED GOODS

Principal Investigator:
Molly Racette, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
Ingestion of grapes or raisins is a documented cause of kidney damage in dogs. A recent study suggested that tartaric acid and its associated salt, potassium bitartrate, are the specific toxins leading to this kidney injury. However, within individual grapes or raisins, the concentration of tartaric acid is variable depending on the variety, climate, geographic location, ripening over the course of the season and availability of water for the vine. Post-harvest processing (e.g. drying, baking, winemaking) also affects concentrations of these compounds in the final product. This variability limits the relationship between ingestion of grapes and raisins and predictable toxicity. In this study, we seek to quantify levels of tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate in a variety of raw grapes and raisins intended for direct consumption and in commercially processed products. The change in quantity of tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate in home-made products containing raisins will be determined to assess the effects of baking. Results will allow for more accurate risk-assessment following ingestion of grapes or raisins which will allow more patient specific treatment recommendations.

IDENTIFYING THE NEUROPATHOLOGIC AND MOLECULAR FEATURES OF LABRADOR RETRIEVER LATE-ONSET PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AT THE NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTION AND IN SKIN SENSORY FIBERS

Principal Investigator:
Susie Sample, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgical Sciences

Abstract:
Identifying the neuropathologic and molecular features of Labrador Retriever late-onset peripheral neuropathy at the neuromuscular junction and in skin sensory fibers Lay Abstract Late onset peripheral neuropathy (LPN), commonly termed “laryngeal paralysis”, is a devastating and life limiting disease. Labrador retrievers represent ~75% of cases. There is currently no disease modifying therapy for LPN; this is also true for similar human conditions. The reason why LPN occurs is poorly understood. Our team has established the disease in Labradors is hereditary and the disease is the result of a problem with the axon part of the nerve. The objective of this project is to understand how LPN affects the interface between the nerve and muscle, and to determine whether dogs with LPN have altered sensation through sensory nerve fibers. This work is significant because it will build foundational evidence into potential sensory involvement for the disease and inform how LPN is resulting in weakness. Ultimately, this work will provide necessary data that will inform management, clinical decisions, and discovery of treatments for Labrador LPN.

DETERMINING THE LEVEL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN SERUM AND DRIED BLOOD SPOT CONCENTRATIONS OF VITAMIN D (25-HYDROXYCHOLECALCIFEROL) IN BEARDED DRAGONS (POGONA VITTICEPS)

Principal Investigator:
Alyssa Scagnelli, Clinical Instructor, Department of Surgical Sciences

Abstract:
Measuring vitamin D in captive reptiles is crucial for their health and in making sound recommendations on their care. Unfortunately, our knowledge of what constitutes normal vitamin D concentrations is lacking; therefore, we are unable to make appropriate dietary recommendations for these species. Currently, vitamin D testing requires large blood volumes, serum separation and overnight shipping, posing challenges for small patients. Dried blood spots (DBS) offer a practical alternative by allowing small blood samples to dry on filter paper, with proven long-term stability and minimal storage and transport needs for human blood samples. This study aims to determine whether DBS can assess vitamin D concentrations in reptile blood. We will be comparing vitamin D levels in serum (the current gold standard test) and DBS. If results correlate, DBS would provide a simpler diagnostic tool, enabling broader studies on reptile vitamin D metabolism and improving clinical care for these popular pets.

INDIVIDUALIZED ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT DURATIONS GUIDED BY SAA CONCENTRATIONS IN CATS WITH ACUTE PYELONEPHRITIS

Principal Investigator:
Katrina Viviano, Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
Pyelonephritis, a bacterial infection of the kidneys, is an important cause of kidney injury in cats that is associated with good clinical outcomes with appropriate antibiotic therapy. Shorter treatment durations to avoid prolonged antibiotic exposures and minimize the risk of bacteria developing antibiotic resistance is the standard of care in people with pyelonephritis, yet antibiotic treatment durations remain prolonged in cats. Serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations are increased in people and cats with pyelonephritis and offer a monitoring tool to assess treatment response. Our recent study in cats with pyelonephritis found that SAA concentrations decreased to normal in association with antibiotic treatment. This study aims to evaluate if SAA, in conjunction with clinical improvement, can be used to determine the duration of antibiotic therapy in cats with pyelonephritis. The results of this study will advance veterinary antibiotic use by providing a means to tailor antibiotic prescribing and avoid unnecessary exposures.

ASSESSMENT OF THREE DIFFERENT CLEANING METHODS ON BLENDERS USED IN BLENDERIZED TUBE-FED DIET PREPARATION IN VETERINARY PATIENTS

Principal Investigator:
Mike Wood, Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
Some sick dogs and cats need help to eat all the calories they need. For those patients we commonly blend water with a prescribed food and provide that diet through a feeding tube. In human medicine there are recommended cleaning methods to ensure that the blenders used to create these liquid diets are clean and safe. There are no such veterinary guidelines. This study will investigate the ability of 3 different blender cleaning methods to reduce bacterial contamination of blenders and food. The methods we will be studying include (1) rinsing the blender, (2) handwashing the blender with dish soap and water, and (3) handwashing and then sanitizing the blender with bleach per FDA guidelines. We hypothesize that we will detect decreased bacterial growth in food samples collected from a blender that is handwashed and sanitized following FDA guidelines thereby providing a standard for veterinary medicine to follow.

MECHANICAL SENSORY THRESHOLD IN FRENCH BULLDOGS WITH CONGENITAL VERTEBRAL MALFORMATIONS PERCEIVED TO BE NEUROLOGICALLY NORMAL BY OWNERS

Principal Investigator:
Natalia Zidan, Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Sciences

Abstract:
This study explores whether French Bulldogs with congenital spinal malformations experience underlying back pain, even if they appear neurologically normal. The majority of French Bulldogs have spinal deformities, similar to those seen in humans with scoliosis or kyphosis, but their impact on back pain is not well understood. Using a gentle and objective pressure test, with a device called algometer, we aim to measure their sensitivity to touch (mechanical sensory threshold) along the spine. By evaluating dogs with confirmed vertebral malformations on x-rays, we hope to determine whether these structural changes of the spine contribute to discomfort. The findings could lead to better pain management strategies and improve the long-term well-being of affected dogs. Understanding potential hidden pain in this popular breed may also help veterinarians provide earlier and more effective treatments, enhancing their quality of life.