This study investigates the effects of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures on the body temperature of anaesthetised dogs, with attention given to underlying mechanisms and contributing factors. Hypothermia is identified as a key concern, given its detrimental impact on the cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine and immune systems. The study demonstrates that dogs undergoing MRI typically experience a reduction in body temperature, which is significantly affected by their body condition score (BCS) and the duration of the scan. A higher BCS correlates with a smaller temperature decrease, while longer scan times result in a greater temperature loss. The inability to use active warming devices, due to the MRI scanner's magnetic field, exacerbates patient heat loss during scans. Limitations of the study include a small, heterogeneous sample, inconsistent documentation of BCS, variability between the brands of thermometer used and the subjective nature of BCS assessment. The results emphasise the importance of vigilant temperature monitoring and management by veterinary nurses, with recommendations made to keep scan times as brief as possible. The study discourages the promotion of above-ideal BCS, owing to the associated health risks. Overall, it advocates for practices that minimise hypothermia and protect the welfare of canine patients during MRI investigations.

This clinical audit investigated postoperative gastrointestinal upset, specifically diarrhoea, a common complication seen in patients following routine neutering surgeries. Over an initial 6-month period in 2023, data from more than 700 patients across three practice sites were analysed. Findings revealed that 26.32% of patients experienced complications within 10 days after surgery, with 11.21% of these presenting with diarrhoea. Research and consultation highlighted that chicken, which is commonly recommended in bland postsurgical diets, is a major dietary allergen for cats and dogs, and that abrupt dietary changes may exacerbate gastrointestinal upset. In response, practice guidelines were revised to advise feeding patients their regular diet in smaller portions postoperatively and encouraging owners to provide their pet's usual food at admission. After implementing these changes and collecting follow-up data over a further 6 months, a 59.15% reduction in cases of postoperative diarrhoea was observed. This audit demonstrates the value of evidence-based changes to practice and effective communication between veterinary staff and clients. Ongoing audits are planned to maintain standards and identify any opportunities for further improvement. Keywords postoperative, gastrointestinal,

This case study explores the common complications that can arise in the anaesthesia of a healthy donkey. Despite the routine nature of the procedure in this case (surgical castration), complications such as hypoventilation, hypotension, hypothermia and hypoxia emerged. The article includes the results of the patient's arterial blood gas analysis and a summary of the actions taken to resolve the complications. A Nevisian donkey underwent routine surgical castration under anaesthesia, during which several common complications arose. Under the American Society of Anesthesiologists' (ASA) physical status classification, the donkey was Grade 1 (a normal healthy patient). Hypotension developed and was managed effectively by adjusting the depth of anaesthesia, administering an intravenous fluid bolus and initiating a constant-rate infusion of dobutamine. Following the administration of dobutamine, the patient's systolic blood pressure improved and was maintained above 100 mmHg. Hypercapnia, attributed to mild respiratory depression, was observed but remained within acceptable limits, with normal blood pH, requiring no intervention. A reduced ratio of arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) to fractional inspired oxygen (FiO2), with the potential to progress to hypoxia, was corrected through an alveolar recruitment manoeuvre. This involved increasing the positive inspiratory pressure to 30 cmH2O and applying 10 cmH2O of positive end-expiratory pressure, which effectively improved oxygenation. Recovery was supported with intranasal oxygen until the donkey could stand; this process was uneventful. The case highlights the importance of anticipating and promptly managing complications during the anaesthesia of a donkey. It also underscores the need for veterinary professionals to recognise that donkeys, with their unique anatomical and physiological characteristics, should not be treated as small horses.

This case study and nursing care analysis explores the treatment and nursing interventions for a hospitalised dog that showed signs of significant stress. The patient was admitted for a computed tomography scan, followed by an anal sacculectomy the following day. The patient did not exhibit signs of stress during the initial consultation, nor was it identified as a potential problem by the owners. However, the patient quickly showed signs of stress on admission. The veterinary nurses, veterinary surgeon, anaesthetist and other team members worked together to develop, implement and adapt a stress management plan to support the patient while in hospital. The case is evaluated and additional learnings shared.

A maned wolf named Marley was presented to the practice by a local conservation centre. She was non-weight-bearing on her right forelimb, which showed significant swelling. The patient was sedated and then underwent radiography of the right forelimb, which confirmed there were no fractures present. When the forelimb was clipped, two puncture wounds were identified and these were treated. She was then returned to the centre as soon as possible.

Research has shown that the presence of a herd mate reduces cortisol levels in female guinea pigs when they are placed in an unknown environment. However, limited research exists into the effect of a herd mate on the display of explorative behaviour. This study looked at a small sample of seven guinea pigs from the same household, which were each taken to a holding pen where they were presented with a novel stimulus, either alone or with the boar from their herd. They were filmed for a period of 6 min and this footage was used to record how much time (in seconds) was spent displaying explorative behaviours. While there were differences between individuals, the presence of the boar correlated positively with increased explorative behaviour in five of the seven females. When the boar was present, explorative behaviours were displayed an average of 1.8 times more often.

Female ferrets, referred to as ‘jills’, are seasonally polyoestrous and induced ovulators. If they are not bred, surgically neutered or chemically brought out of season, persistent oestrogen production can result in bone marrow suppression, pancytopenia and even death. With news of the discontinuation of the drug Delvosteron, commonly known as the ‘jill jab’ (licensed for ferrets and used to induce ovulation), owners and veterinary professionals should be aware that there are alternative treatments available. This article will discuss the alternatives available to prevent prolonged seasons in female ferrets with the aim of helping decision-making on the appropriate treatment for individual ferret patients.

High-quality equine neonatal nursing care is essential to the recovery of a sick foal. Whether this care is carried out in a dedicated foal unit or an owner's yard, it is a labour-intensive endeavour and it provides many opportunities for equine veterinary nurses to use the array of specialist skills they have acquired. This article provides an insight into the care of the recumbent neonatal foal and is aimed at veterinary nurses interested in equine neonatology. The article includes guidance on the critical care checks needed to recognise areas of concern, prevent complications and provide ongoing assessment of the foal.