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ThesisItem Open Access CLINICO DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES ON CERTAIN ECTOPARASITIC SKIN DISEASES IN DOGS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2016-05) SIVA NAGARAJU, G; NALINI KUMARI, K(MAJOR); SURESH, K; VENU, RABSTRACT: The present study was carried out to study the incidence, different diagnostic aspects, and to evaluate the efficacy of different therapeutic agents in certain ectoparasitic skin diseases in dogs. The overall incidence of ectoparasitic skin disease was 75.55% (238/315) of which tick infestation, flea infestation, lice infestation, and mite infestation were 63.02 % (150/238), 11.34% (27 /238), 18.48% (44/238) and 19.76% (17/86), respectively. However, mixed infestations were seen in 22 out of 238 dogs. The highest incidence was recorded in age group of 2-4 years in tick infested dogs, 1-2 years in flea infested dogs, 2-4 years in lice infested dogs and less than one year in mite infested dogs. Tick, flea, lice and mite infestation were recorded high in male, mongrel dogs. Alopecia, erythema, erosions and pruritus (mild, moderate and severe) were the common clinical manifestations noticed in tick, flea, lice and mite infested dogs. In flea infested dogs, flea dirt was major clinical finding. Whereas, anemia, papular eruptions, hyperpigmentation which were mostly distributed at the dorsal aspect of lumbo-sacral area, caudomedial thighs and ventral abdomen were also recorded. Dogs with lice infestation along with above said signs showed anemia, restlessness, intense irritation (biting lice) and debilitation (sucking lice). Mite infested dogs revealed papules, pustules, scales, lichenification and hyperpigmentation. Whereas, generalized lesions were commonly observed than that of localized lesions. Diagnosis of ectoparasitic skin infestation was made by visual examination, palpation, combing, examination of skin scrapings, hairpluck, acetate tape impression smears and otic discharge which revealed presence of ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), fleas (Ctenocephalides canis), lice (Heterodoxus spiniger and Linognathus setosus) and mites (Demodex canis and Demodex cornei). Though there was a significant decrease in the mean Hb, PCV and increase in eosinophils of the tick, fleas and lice infested dogs, it was not seen in all the dogs of either group. In mange, besides the significant anemic changes, a significant increase in TLC, neutrophil and lymphocyte count was also noted. The biochemical finding in dogs with ecto-parasitic skin disease was a significant decrease in the mean total serum protein. Fecal examination of these ectoparasitic infested dogs revealed Toxocara canis, Ancylostome eggs and tape worm segment in 11.76% of dogs. Forty dogs that diagnosed with ectoparasitic disease, were included in therapeutic studies viz., Group II, III, IV, V and VI with 8 in each. Ticks infested (GroupII) dogs treated with single application of fipronil spot-on 9.7% w/v showed improvement in erythema, pruritus, alopecia and all the dogs were completely free from ticks after 2 weeks of therapy. Whereas, Group III (tick infestation) dogs that were treated by applying scalibor protector band containing 4% deltamethrin showed complete relief by 4th week and the lesions subsided in all the dogs as the intensity of tick infestation decreased. After therapy there was a significant increase of hemoglobin, PCV, mean total protein and significant decrease in mean eosinophil count in both groups. However, based on period of recovery on comparison of two therapeutic protocols, fipronil spot-on was found to be more effective than scalibor protector band. In Group IV (flea infestation) dogs’ treatment was initiated with fipronil 0.25% w/v mechanical pump spray @ 3-6 ml/kg b.wt, with which all the dogs became flea free by 1st week. Group V (lice infestation) dogs were treated once with fipronil spot on 9.7%w/v. All 8(100%) and even these dogs were found to be free from infestation by 1st week. There was significant increase in the mean Hb, PCV, total serum protein and significant decrease in eosinophil count of both group IV and V dogs by the end of period of monitoring. Mite infested (group VI) dogs were treated with ivermectin tablets @ 300 μg per kg b.wt, orally once daily and external application of medicated shampoo (petben). However, in those cases which were complicated with pyoderma along with the above therapy an antibiotic (enrofloxacin @ 5 mg/kg b.wt) was also added. Ivermectin was continued till two negative skin scrapings were obtained at weekly intervals. By day 20, four dogs ( 2 localised and 2 generalised ) became mite free. While one dog became negative only by day 80 and one dog remained positive till the end of the study i.e day 90. After therapy the mean hemoglobin, PCV, lymphocyte count and mean total protein values slightly increased with significant decrease in TLC, neutrophil and eosinophil count. From the present study, it was concluded that the overall incidence of ectoparasitic skin disease was 75.55% with tick infestation being the most common. Erythema, alopecia and pruritus of varying intensity were the most commonly found symptoms in the affected dogs. The mean Hb, PCV, total serum protein decreased in the affected and improved by the end of the period of monitoring. Spot-on preparation was convenient to apply and brought 100% recovery in lice and tick infestation by weeks one and two respectively with no recurrence. Spray preparation was also easy to apply and brought about 100% recovery in flea infestation by 1st week with no recurrence. The recovery rate in demodicid dogs was 87.5% with a prolonged treatment period in generalized demodicosisThesisItem Open Access CLINICO-BIOCHEMICAL AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES OF RUMINAL ACIDOSIS IN GOATS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-12) TAMBE SATISH VALMIK; PADMAJA, K(MAJOR); NAGARAJ, P; GOPALA REDDY, AABSTRACT:The present study was designed to investigate the clinico-biochemical parameters and response to therapeutic agents in clinical cases of goats suffering with ruminal acidosis. Thirty clinical cases of ruminal acidosis presented to the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Campus Veterinary Hospital, and Veterinary Ambulatory Clinic, Mylardevpally, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad with the history of accidental ingestion of carbohydrate rich diet, inappetance to anorexia, suspended rumination and clinical manifestations of distended rumen and diarrhoea were selected and were divided based on severity of ruminal acidosis into three different groups consisting of 10 goats in each. The group I (mild acidosis), group II (moderate acidosis), and group III (severe acidosis) goats were subjected to the therapeutic trials and compared against ten apparently healthy goats from the same area with similar husbandry practices which served as healthy control (Group IV). Clinical signs exhibited by mild acidotic goats (Group I) were inappetance, mild bloat, reduced rumen motility, reduced rumination, semisolid faeces, firm and doughy condition of rumen on palpation of left flank and dull sound on percussion of left flank. The signs observed in moderate acidotic goats (Group II) were anorexia, distended abdomen, absence of rumination, dull appearance, absence of ruminal motility, grinding of teeth, frequent bleating, thick nasal discharge, pasty faeces, dehydration, fluid flashing sound on percussion and gurgling sound on auscultation of rumen. Whereas in severe acidotic goats (Group III), the signs were observed anorexia, severe depression, sunken eyes, staggering gait, lameness, absence of rumination, ruminal motility absent, watery diarrhoea, dehydration, oligouria to anuria, dysponea, tachycardia, subnormal body temperature, sternal and lateral recumbency. Clinical signs after treatment in all affected goats disappeared. Ruminal acidotic goats had subnormal body temperature, heart and respiration rates and skin fold time in all affected groups of goats significantly (p<0.05) increased, ruminal motility significantly (p<0.05) decreased in group I and absent in group II and III, conjunctival mucous membrane was normal, slightly congested and congested in group I, group II and III respectively. There was no significant difference in the values of temperature, heart and respiration rates, skin fold time and ruminal motility in all affected groups of goats and conjunctival mucous membrane was normal after treatment. Rumen fluid samples were analysed for physical changes. Colour was gray in group I and milky gray in both group II and III, consistency was semisolid or slightly watery in group I and watery in both group II and III, odour was acidic in both group I and II and pungent acidic in group I, and significant (p<0.05) decrease in pH between the groups of affected goats before therapy. Micro-biochemical changes of rumen fluid like MBRT was significantly (p<0.05) increased in all affected groups of goats, SAT was significantly (p<0.05) increased in group I and absent in group II and III, iodophilic activity was reduced in group I and nil in both group II and III, protozoal motility was sluggish in group I and absent in both group II and III, protozoal density decreased in group I and absent in both group II and III, significant (p<0.05) decrease in live and increase in dead proportion in group I, complete absence of protozoa in both group II and III, and replacement of rumen fluid gram negative bacteria by gram positive bacteria in all affected groups of goats before treatment. Rumen fluid analysis was normal in all the groups after the treatment. In haematological parameters, a significant (p<0.05) increase in haemoglobin, packed cell volume, total leucocyte count, neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes and significant (p<0.05) decrease in lymphocytes in all affected groups of goats before treatment. Haematological parameters were retured to normal in all the groups after the treatment. Blood biochemical analysis revealed significant (p<0.05) increase in plasma glucose, serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, serum aspartate aminotransferase and serum lactate dehydrogenase enzymes were observed in all affected groups of goats before treatment. After treatment all blood biochemical parameters returned to normalcy in all the groups after the treatment. The mean values of urine pH before treatment was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased between the all affected groups as compared with group IV. The mean values of urine pH did not differ significantly after treatment in group I, II and III. The Benedict’s test of urine was positive in all affected goats before treatment as compared to group IV. After therapy, it was negative in all ruminal acidosis affected goats. The therapeutic efficacy of the drugs used against various types of ruminal acidosis in goats was assessed. Group I goats were given sodium bicarbonate @ 1 g/kg body weight, single dose orally daily for 5 days. Group II goats were given ‘Bufzone’ @ 50 g single dose orally daily for 4 days. Whereas, goats of group III were administered ‘Bufzone’ @ 50 g single dose orally daily for 4 days and Sodium bicarbonate @ 1 g/kg body weight orally for 5 days. In addition goats of all the three groups were administered with Chlorphenarmine maleate @ 0.5 mg/kg body weight im, Tribivet @ 2ml im and Ringer’s lactate @ 25 ml, 50-75 ml, 75-74 100 ml iv in group I, II and III respectively. It was concluded that ruminal acidosis is a common disease of goats and its severity can be effectively reduced by combination of Bufzone and sodium bicarbonate along with supportive therapy.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON DISEASES OF TRANSITION COW WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON SUB CLINICAL HYPOCALCEMIA(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2015-04) SRINIVAS NAIDU, G; LAKSHMI RANI, N(MAJOR); SHOBHA MANI, B; SREEDEVI, BABSTRACT : Upon screening of 154 crossbred cows which are in the transition period during the study period from November 2013 to October 2014, the prevalence of clinical diseases accounted for 42.21 per cent and subclinical diseases as 51.06 percent. On the whole 80 cows were affected during transition period. Among the 80 affected cows clinical and subclinical diseases were seen in 40.00 and 18.75 per cent, respectively while 41.25 per cent of the cows had both clinical and subclinical diseases. The frequently observed clinical conditions in transition cows were retention of placenta (10.39 per cent), mastitis and dystocia (6.49 per cent) and in the subclinical conditions subclinical hypocalcemia (45.74 per cent) was predominant. Majority of the conditions were prevalent during postpartum with higher prevalence in third lactation cows with greater incidence during November month. The body condition score ranged between 3.0-3.5 in 43.75 per cent of the affected cows while in 35 per cent cows the body condition score was 2.5-3.0 at the time of calving. Low hemoglobin values were recorded in uterine torsion (10.14±1.43) and laminitis (8.45±0.55). The mean serum calcium values (mg/dL) significantly reduced (P<0.05) in cows with clinical/subclinical diseases during transition period and ranged from 5.90±0.10 to 11.30±0.89. The serum phosphorus values were significantly reduced in downer cow syndrome (3.88±0.08), uterine torsion (4.12±0.66) and clinical hypocalcemia (4.22±0.21). Significant elevation (P<0.05) of serum magnesium values were recorded in clinical hypocalcemia (3.53±1.05 mg/dL) and downer cow syndrome (3.34±0.95 mg/dL). The mean serum glucose values (mg/dL) were significantly reduced (P<0.01) in subclinical ketosis (26.20±2.35), clinical ketosis (29.07±4.61) and in downer cow syndrome (23.30±13.30) (P<0.05) and vaginal prolapse (32.03±4.49). The serum BHBA values in affected cows were increased with a decrease in calcium status and they ranged from 0.11 m mol/L to 7.60 m mol/L. The BHBA values were significantly elevated (P<0.01) in subclinical ketosis (1.84±0.14), clinical ketosis (3.53±0.89), downer cow syndrome (1.30±0.73), metritis (0.52±0.08) and in subclinical hypocalcemia (0.94±0.19), retention of placenta (0.72±0.16), dystocia (1.08±0.29), clinical hypocalcemia (0.68±0.30), vaginal prolapse (0.60±0.23) and laminitis (0.71±0.37) (P<0.05). The mean serum proteins were significantly decreased (P<0.01) in clinical ketosis (5.53±0.49), vaginal prolapse (5.58±0.50), metritis (5.86±0.11), laminitis (5.01±0.41) and in dystocia (5.71±0.39) (P<0.05). In udder edema, mastitis and subclinical hypocalcemia the serum urea nitrogen values were significantly elevated. Subclinical hypocalcemia accounted for 45.74 per cent of the cases screened while 11.63 per cent occurred in prepartum and 88.37 per cent in post partum periods. The prevalence was highest in third lactation (32.56 per cent) followed by second lactation (25.58 per cent) with more number of cases in November (18.60 per cent) followed by September and October (13.95 per cent). Significant reduction (P<0.01) in rumen motility (2.58±0.15) was observed in subclinical hypocalcemic cows when compared to healthy control (3.88±0.30). The principle clinical signs observed in subclinical hypocalcemic cows were decreased milk yield and inappetance. Significant increase in TLC and reduction in monocytes were noticed in subclinically hypocalcemic cows. The mean serum calcium was significantly (P<0.01) reduced (7.44±0.72mg/dL), and significant increase (P<0.01) in BHBA (0.94±0.19 m mol/L) and (P<0.05) serum urea nitrogen (18.98±1.56mg/dL) in subclinically hypocalcemic cows. Oral administration of ionic calcium in nine cows with subclinical hypocalcemia without any associated condition revealed significant improvement in rumen motility /5min (3.57±0.25) and milk yield. Significant difference in differential leucocyte count per cent with the pre and post therapeutic values of neutrophils (25.78±1.00 vs 30.00±1.21), lymphocytes (73.78±0.95vs 68.00±1.08) and eosinophils (0.33±0.23 vs 1.00±0.29) were observed. Significant increase (P<0.01) in mean serum calcium values (7.11±0.09 vs 10.33±0.39 mg/dL), phosphorus (4.81±0.06 vs 4.03±0.11 mg/dL), glucose (42.40±2.45 vs 46.07±2.35) and significant reduction in BHBA (1.32±0.29 vs 0.95±0.35 m mol/L) and serum urea nitrogen (14.01±2.19 vs 20.36±2.41) were recorded after therapy. Out of 43 cows with subclinical hypocalcemia, 79.10 percent (34 cows) were associated with other conditions. The percent prevalence of subclinical hypocalcemia in the associated conditions was 28.57 in subclinical ketosis, retained placenta (37.50), mastitis and dystocia (60.00), udder edema (28.57), uterine prolapse (42.86), metritis (25.00), vaginal prolapse (33.33), uterine torsion (50.00) and laminitis (100.00 per cent).ThesisItem Open Access CLINICO-DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES ON PARVOVIRAL ENTERITIS IN DOGS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2014-12) BHARGAVI, MATLI; SHOBHAMANI, B(MAJOR); NALINI KUMARI, K; SRILATHA, ChABSTRACT: Canine parvoviral enteritis is probably one of the most common infectious disorders of dogs through out the globe and the most prevalent virus responsible for high mortality (in the absence of therapy) in young pups with haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. The present study was undertaken to diagnose, to study the symptomatology, haematobiochemical alterations and to assess the therapeutic efficacy of different drug regimens in the treatment of paroviral enteritis in dogs. A total of 24 faecal samples were collected from dogs with symptoms suggestive of parvovirus infection and tested with Scan VetTM PARVO kit. Out of 24 faecal samples, 14 samples were positive for the CPV infection which were further confirmed by PCR. In the present study, the relative sensitivity and specificity of the kit with PCR were found to be 73.68 percent and 100 percent respectively. Overall prevalence of the disease was 58.33 percent. Pups upto 3 months age group (78.57 %) were highly susceptible than 3 to 6 months age group (30 %). Males (68.75 %) were reported with high prevalence when compared to females (37.5 %). Higher prevalence was recorded in Doberman (28.75 %) followed by Great dane, Labrador retriever, Mongrel, Dalmatian, German shepherd and Rottweiler. Culturing of positive faecal samples showed the presence of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp., in different combinations. Detailed symptomatology (14 pups) recorded revealed dullness (100 %), anorexia (71.43 %), inappetence (28.57 %), whitish frothy vomiting and hematemesis (28.57 % each), yellowish and plain, watery type vomiting (21.43 % each), greenish foul smelling diarrhoea (21.43 %), bloody foul smelling diarrhoea (78.57 %), mild dehydration (50 %), moderate dehydration (35.71 %), severe dehydration (14.28 % ), fever (71.43 %), tachycardia (71.43 %), congested and pale conjunctival mucous membrane ( 28.57 % each) on the day of presentation. Haematolgy of CPV affected dogs (14) revealed significantly decreased mean values of haemoglobin (9.97+0.84 gm %), packed cell volume ((28.27+ 2.73 %), lymphocyte (13.27+1.17 %) and thrombocyte count (264714.43+ 37911.18 /cumm), while the mean neutrophil count (77.45+1.29 %) was significantly increased. However, upon detailed analysis, 57.14 percent were anaemic (5/14; 2.7- 8.1 gm/dl), 42.86 percent were leucopenic (6/14; 1800- 5200/cumm), 28.57 percent were neutropenic (4/14; 30- 40 %), 42.86 percent were lymphopenic (6/14; 9- 12 %) and 35.71 percent were thrombocytopenic (5/14; 63,000- 1,62,000 /cumm). While 28.57 percent and 42.86 percent of cases had leucocytosis (4/14; 19,000- 25,000) and neutrophilia (6/14; 80- 88 %) respectively. In the present study, serum biochemical profile of CPV affected pups (14) depicted significantly increased mean blood urea nitrogen (36.48+6.16 mg/dl) and significantly decreased mean serum potassium levels (3.59+0.14 mmol/l). However critical examination revealed elevated BUN in 50 percent of cases (7/14; 40.2- 89.83 mg/dl), hypoproteinemia in 21.43 percent of cases (3/14; 3.12- 4.17 gm/dl), hypoglycemia in 21.43 percent of cases (3/14; 40- 48 mg/dl), and hyperglycemia in 42.86 percent of cases (6/14; 133- 165 mg/dl). While electrolyte disturbances such as hypokalemia was evident in 35.71 percent of patients (5/14; 2.58- 3.13 mmol/l), hyponatremia in 7.14 percent (1/14; 120 mmol/l) and hypochloremia in 42.86 percent of cases (6/14; 97- 105 mmol/l). ECG studies revealed sinus tachycardia in 71.43 percent of cases, of which characteristic abnormalities were depicted in ECGs of 3 pups. (severe tachycardia- 420 bpm; ‘ST’ depression with small biphasic ‘T’ waves and ‘ST’ elevation with small ‘R’ waves). Antibiogram revealed highest sensitivity to amikacin (85.71 %) followed by other antibiotics such as cefepime, chloramphenicol, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, levofloxacin, ceftazidime and amoxycillin with clavulanic acid. 14 CPV positive dogs were divided randomly into 2 groups (Group- II and Group- III). Treatment regimen included: broad spectrum antibiotics (ceftriaxone with tazobactam @ 20 mg/kg body wt.,I/V for group- II and amikacin @ 10 mg/kg body wt., I/V for group- III) while antiemetic (Ondansetron @ 0.2 mg/kg body wt., I/V ), styptic ( ethamsylate @ 10 mg/kg body wt., I/V) and fluid therapy (RL , 5 % DNS, potassium chloride and hetastarch, I/V as required) were similar for both the groups. Two pups (one from both the treatment groups) died on second day of therapy. However, by 5th day of therapy, rest of the pups had significant clinical recovery with restored general activity, satisfactory appetite (except in one patient of group- II by 7th day of therapy), complete remission of emesis and diarrhoea, normal hydration status (with exception of one patient of group- III by 7th day of therapy), normal rectal temperature and normal heart rate. Haematobiochemical parameters with exception of haemoglobin, PCV and TEC reached normalcy in all the patients on 5th day of therapy. In the present study, irrespective of the treatment, recovery was good and comparatively earlier in the pups with early presentation, aged 3- 6 months and with less haematobiochemical alterations when compared to the other pups with late presentation, relatively younger age (<2months), and with severe haematobiochemical alterationsThesisItem Open Access EVALUATION OF GERIATRIC DOGS FOR CERTAIN DISEASES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2014-06) AMAR, G.S; NALINI KUMARI, K(MAJOR); VAIKUNTA RAO, V; SHOBHA MANI, B; SURESH KUMAR, R.VABSTRACT : The aim of the investigation was to study the prevalence of pattern of certain diseases in geriatric dogs, to study the clinicopathological and biochemical changes in the diseases detected and to undertake therapy in congestive heart failure. The study revealed the prevalence of hepatic disease, renal disease and congestive heart failure in geriatric dogs as 8.33 per cent, 7.29 per cent, and 6.25 per cent respectively. The most prominent clinical signs observed were hypersalivation, irritability, vomition, decreased appetite, exercise intolerance and ascites in geriatric dogs with hepatic disease. The clinical signs observed in geriatric dogs with renal disease were hypersalivation, vomition, irritability and decreased appetite. Clinical examination of geriatric dogs with congestive heart failure revealed dyspnea, exercise intolerance, ascites, nocturnal cough and decreased appetite. Haematological values showed the results of normal haemogram and leucogram in geriatric dogs with hepatic disease, renal disease and congestive heart failure. In serum biochemistry profile elevated blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglycerides, cholesterol, fibrinogen, CK-MB, ALT, and decreased total protein and albumin were observed in geriatric dogs with hepatic disease, renal disease and congestive heart failure. Qualitative assessment of cardiac troponins in geriatric dogs with congestive heart failure was found to be positive. No significant changes were noticed in the urinalysis of geriatric dogs with congestive heart failure. Where as low specific gravity, proteinuria and alkaline urine was observed in geriatric dogs with renal disease. The reduction in specific gravity, pH, and presence of urobilinogen and protein in urine was observed in geriatric dogs suffering with hepatic disease. No significant difference in values of blood pressure in geriatric dogs suffering with hepatic and renal disease. Whereas significant elevation was noticed in both systolic and diastolic pressure values in geriatric dogs with congestive heart failure. Thoracic radiography revealed cardiomegaly and pulmonary edema. In electrocardiography left ventricular enlargement, atrial fibrillation and left atrial enlargement were common in geriatric dogs with congestive heart failure. The M-mode echocardiography in congestive heart failure of geriatric dogs showed elevated left ventricular internal dimensions, decreased left ventricular posterior wall thickness and decreased left ventricular contractility indices. Combination of pimobendan, enalapril, furosemide and L-carnitine was found to be effective in the therapeutic management of congestive heart failure associated with dilated cardiomyopathy in geriatric dogs.ThesisItem Open Access CLINICO - DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES ON OTITIS EXTERNA IN DOGS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2014-10) BHARATH KUMAR REDDY, C; NALINI KUMARI, K(MAJOR); SYAAMA SUNDAR, N; VINOD KUMAR, NABSTRACT : The present study was undertaken to study the etiology, make an attempt to identify the underlying factors, study the symptomatology and to assess the therapeutic efficacy of certain drugs in otitis externa in dogs. Upon screening of 610 dogs, during the study period of 7 months, the prevalence of otitis externa accounted for 6.88%. Of the affected dogs, 64.28% exhibited unilateral otitis externa and 35.71% showed bilateral otitis externa. Highest number of cases of otitis externa were observed in dogs of above 5 years age group (33.33%) with Labrador retreiever (22.80%) being the most affected breed. Of the total of 57 ears from 42 affected dogs , the primary etiological agents identified were Otodectes cyanotis, Sarcoptes scabei, Demodex canis, tick infestation, atopic dermatitis, food allergy, seborrhea, glandular disorders, canine distemper and Aspergillus. Predisposing factors identified included hair in the external ear canals, pendulous ears, ear polyps, use of cotton tipped swabs and high humidity. Secondary causative factors identified included Malassezia and bacteria. At least one of the secondary causative factors were identified in all the otitic ears. The clinical signs observed in dogs with otitis externa included few or all of the symptoms like head shaking, ear discharge, ear scratching, pinnal erythema, malodour and pain on handling. Few affected dogs also showed reduced appetite, reduced general activity and skin lesions. Examination of otic discharges by roll smear cytology of all the 57 otitic ears revealed Malassezia alone and bacteria alone in 22 (38.59%) and 14 (24.56%) ears respectively. The combination of bacteria and Malassezia were present in 21 ears (36.84%). Neutrophils were observed in the otic discharge of 50 ears (87.71%). The predominant bacteria found upon culture in healthy ears were Staphylococcus pseudintermedius which was isolated from 58.33% ears. Cultural examination revealed 34 bacterial isolates from 21 otitic ears with bacterial involvement (bacterial otitis externa – 10 and mixed otitis externa – 11), of which Staphylococcus species, Pseudomonas species and Proteus species accounted for 54.54 %, 18.18% and 12.12% of the otitic ears (Group I + Group II + Group III) respectively. Other bacteria isolated were Klebsiella species (6.06%), Streptococcus species and Micrococci (3.03%) each. Malassezia was isolated from 58.3% of healthy ears and 69.69% of the otitic ears (Group I + Group II + Group III) where as Aspergillus and Candida were obtained from 6.06% and 3.03% of the otitic ears respectively. Otitic dogs exhibited neutrophilia, eosinophilia, reduced haemoglobin and reduced total protein levels when compared to healthy animals. Video - otoscopic findings included purulent (4 ears) and ceruminous (3 ears) secretions that were not very conspicuous grossly, ulceration of external ear canal (3 ears) and excessive hair in the external ear canal (4 ears). Insipissated pus was observed in 1 ear out of the 4 purulent ears. Gentamicin and clotrimazole exhibited highest in- vitro sensitivity to whole culture samples from bacterial and fungal otitic ears respectively. Therapeutic trials were undertaken based on the etiology and dogs were divided into 3 groups. It was found that clotrimazole was 100% effective in treating Malassezial otitis externa (Group I dogs). Bacterial otitis externa (Group II dogs) had 100% recovery upon therapy with gentamicin, enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin based on the results of antibiotic sensitivity tests of whole culture samples. In mixed otitis externa (Group III dogs), clotrimazole and ofloxacin were used and all the treated dogs recovered indicating 100% efficacy. The mean duration of time required for complete clinical recovery was 11.66 ± 1.60 days ( ranged from 7-21 days) in Malassezia otitis externa, while it was 17.50 ± 2.18 days (7-28 days) in bacterial otitis externa which might be due to the presence of Pseudomonas otitic infections which were relatively difficult to treat due to resistance. The time taken for complete clinical recovery was about 15.90 ± 2.32 days in mixed otitis externa which ranged from 7 – 28 days. It was observed that gram positive infection responded quickly than when combined with other organisms, particularly gram negative rods. Besides otitis externa, the associated conditions were also treated appropriately and during the monitoring period of three months no recurrence was seen.ThesisItem Open Access CLINICO-DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES ON BOVINE DERMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS WITH EMPHASIS ON DEGNALA DISEASE(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI – 517 502. (A.P) INDIA, 2014-11) RAMESH, RACHAPUDI; VAIKUNTA RAO, V (Major)ABSTRACT: The aim of the study is to identify the etiology, clinical signs and hemato-biochemical findings in bovines with certain dermatological disorders, and to formulate an affective managemental regimen for degnala disease in bovines. The study revealed that the overall prevalence of bovine dermatological disorders was 25 per cent. Specifically the prevalence of degnala disease, ringworm, sarcoptic mange, Psoroptic mange and demodectic mange were 14, 3,3.3,2.2 and 2.4 per cent respectively. Cultural isolation and identification of scrapes of the mouldy rice straw revealed Aspergillus flavus,Aspergillus niger,Pencillium notatum and Ochracious spp. The Trichophyton verrucosum from skin scrapings of ring worm cases, Sarcoptes scabie var bovis, Psoroptis bovis and Demodex bovis were identified from the skin scrapings of mange cases respectively . The most prominant clinical signs observed in bovines with degnala disease were edematous swelling of the hind limbs, cracks on the skin of the limbs, ulcerative wounds at inter digital space of hooves and gangerene of the tail and ear tips. The prominent clinical findings of bovines with ringworm were alopacia , pruritus , circular, circumscribed , grayish white flaques crusty lesions raised over the skin. The prominent clinical signs in bovines with sarcoptic mange were papular eruptions vise erythema, pruritis, hairloss with thickening of the skin , crusts with exudation , excoriation of the skin due to scratching . The clinical signs in bovines with Psoroptic mange were pruritis, alopacia, excoriation of the skin with lichenification, crusts with exudation and scab formation . The clinical signs in bovines with demodicosis were local hair loss , non pruritic, palpable nodules with a few pustules and erythematous un pigmented areas . Haematological studies showed anemia and normal luekogram. Serum biochemical profile showed fall in blood urea nitrogen, albumin and normal serum zinc, copper and aspertate aminotransferase levels. However there was an increase in total protein values. Therapeutic efficacy was found to be similar in both groups . Combination of Destrox, Chlorphenaramine maleate, Streptopencillin and Zinc oxide found to be useful in the treatment of degnala disease in bovines.ThesisItem Open Access CLINICO DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES ON DEMODICOSIS IN DOGS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-03) SIVA KUMAR, R.V; NALINIKUMARI, K (Major); VAIKUNTA RAO, V; SREEDEVI, BABSTRACT : In the present study, work was carried out on clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of demodicosis in dogs. Demodicosis in dogs with skin problems was diagnosed by examination of deep skin scrapings, trichogram and tape impression smears. Overall prevalence (dogs with cutaneous symptoms) of the disease was 8.23%. However prevalence in stray dogs was higher (14%) than owned dogs (5.8%). Prevalence of juvenile onset demodicosis (92.8%) was more than adult onset demodicosis . Males were slightly more susceptible than females, while a higher prevalence was noted in mongrels. Examination of deep skin scrapings was more efficacious than hair pluck. Tape impression smears were useful to identify few mites and pyoderma in dogs with dry lesions. Mites of different species could be identified based on morphometry, though PCR test is the best. D. cornei, identified in the tape impression smears was always associated with D. canis though not found in every case of demodicosis. Mite load was heavy in two pugs and in the case of GD with severe pyoderma. Presence or absence of secondary bacterial infection was confirmed by stained glass slide impression smears as well as tape impression smears. Symptoms noticed in dogs with demodicosis were alopecia (100%), followed by papules (64.2%), erythema (57.14%), lichenification, cellulitis, furunculosis and hyper pigmentation (35.7% each), ulcers and erosions (7.14% each), and pain (14.2%). Lesions were noticed in different areas of the body in different proportions with the face most affected. GD was more common than LD. Supplementation of symptomatology with microscopic examination revealed that GD with mild pyoderma (64.2%) was more common followed by squamous GD (21.4%) and GD with severe pyoderma (7.14%). Mean leucocyte, neutrophil, eosinophil and monocyte counts increased in most of the affected dogs. Similarly most of the affected dogs had anemia, lymphopenia, increased protein and globulin levels. In the present study, underlying factors such as malnutrition, endoparastism, improper management and stress were identified in most of the dogs while genetic susceptibility was suspected in Pure breeds. Oral ivermectin with or without supplements was highly efficacious and the time required for attaining clinical as well as 1st negative skin scraping varied from 20-70 days. Ivermectin was continued till the 2nd negative skin scraping and treated dogs were advised not to breed. No adverse affects were found during the ivermectin therapy. Though ivermectin was efficacious in the both groups, supplementation of the diet with protein and other pharmaceutical supplements brought about comparatively quick recovery. GD with mild pyoderma could be successfully treated with a combination of miticidal therapy and topical antibacterial shampoo alone with out any systemic antibiotics. During the monitoring period of three months recurrence was seen in one pug.ThesisItem Open Access ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF CARDIOMYOPATHY AND ITS TREATMENT IN DOGS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-02) USHA SREE, K; VAIKUNTA RAO, V (Major); NALINI KUMARI, K; RANI PRAMEELA, DABSTRACT The aim of the study was to describe clinical signs and haemato-biochemical findings in dogs with cardiomyopathy, to evaluate the cardiomyopathy in dogs with electrocardiography, thoracic radiography and echocardiographic examination and to study the therapeutic success rate in dogs with cardiomyopathy.The study revealed high incidence of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in Labrador retriever (56.25%), with male predominance and in the age group of 4-8 years.The clinical signs observed were cough, exercise intolerane, syncope, pedal edema, inappetence, weight loss and abdominal distention in DCM dogs with congestive heart failure.The physical examination findings were tachycardia, tachypnoea, dyspnoea, crackles and ascites. Haematological values showed the results of normal haemogram and leukogram. In serum biochemistry profile, elevated serum urea nitrogen, creatinine, aspartate transaminase (AST), CK-MB and cardiac troponin-I and normal sodium and potassium were observed.Thoracic radiography revealed cardiomegaly, pulmonary edema and prominence of left atrium. In electrocardiography, atrial fibrillation, ventricular premature contractions, left ventricular enlargement, left atrial enlargement and sinus tachycardia were more common.The M-mode echocardiography in DCM dogs showed elevated left ventricular internal dimensions, decreased left ventricular posterior wall thickness, elevated left atrium dimension, decreased aortal diameter, increased end point septal separation and reduced left ventricular contractility indices. Combination of L-carnitine and herbal drug abana was found to be effective in the management of congestive heart failure in dogs with DCM.