VetInsight Pakistan

Introduction ​Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT) is a viral respiratory infection of chickens caused by the Gallid alphaherpesvirus 1 . The infection is characterized by severe breathing difficulties in infected birds. For poultry stakeholders, the outbreak of this disease in a farm means not only the death of birds but also the contamination of the environment. ​Transmission and Latency ​The mode of transmission of the virus: The virus is spread through respiratory secretions/droplets. ​The "Carrier" Problem: One of the most unique features of this virus is that recovered birds can act as subclinical carriers . The virus remains "hidden" in the nervous system of recovered birds. During stressful periods, the virus re-emerges in these birds, infecting other healthy flocks of birds. ​The "Pump-Handle" Breathing: The most evident signs of the infection: ​Gasping & Dyspnea: The infected birds stretch their necks forward and upward to take in air. ​Blood-S...

Introduction While the news of Rabies and Parvovirus dominates the front pages of veterinary journals, a stealthy and cunning foe, Brucella canis , silently attacks breeding stock and poses a danger to the general public. As a Gram-negative, facultative, intracellular coccobacillus , Brucella canis is the primary causative agent of Contagious Abortion and Reproductive Failure in Dogs. But most importantly, it's a Zoonotic disease , meaning that it can leap from your loyal canine companions to you. Transmission The transmission of Brucella canis from one dog to another, or from a mother to a puppy, or even from a puppy to a human, is a complex and not yet fully understood subject. However, Brucella canis is a highly contagious disease and can be transmitted as follows: Oronasal contact Oro-Nasal transmission of vaginal discharge, aborted fetuses, or urine. Venereal Transmission Venereal transmission, i.e., from a female in heat to a male through coitus. Vertical transmission Vertic...

 Introduction Arguably, coccidiosis is the most economically important parasitic disease in the poultry industry worldwide. It is caused by protozoa belonging to the Eimeria group and attacks the intestinal tract. It results in malabsorption, weight loss, and high mortality rates. For a DVM professional, coccidiosis control is not just about treatment; it’s all about " Gut Integrity . The Pathogen: Eimeria Species Different species of Eimeria affect different parts of the avian gut: ​ E. tenella : Affects the ceca (causing bloody droppings ). ​E. necatrix: Affects the mid-small intestine. ​E. acervulina: Affects the upper small intestine. Clinical Manifestations Farmers often miss the early signs, but a clinical eye should look for: ​Bloody Droppings :  The most common sign of E. tenella. ​Ruffled Feathers & Pallor:  Birds look "hunched up" and pale due to blood loss (anemia). ​Poor FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio) :  Birds eat but do not gain weight because their ...

 Introduction Most pet owners think of their dogs as members of the family, and as such, they share meals as a way of showing affection. However, as a veterinary professional, I have seen many emergency cases of " Dietary Indiscretion " in which a seemingly harmless meal has caused severe systemic failure in dogs. It is not enough for pet owners to be aware of the effects of human foods such as Xylitol and Chocolate on their dogs. It is a necessity for them. ​1. Xylitol: The Sweet Deception Xylitol is a sugar substitute used in sugar-free gum products, candies, and some peanut butters. It is harmless to humans but is a potent stimulator of insulin release in the dog body The Science:  In contrast to humans, the pancreas of a dog interprets Xylitol as actual glucose and reacts with an enormous release of insulin. This triggers severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in as little as 30-60 minutes. Clinical Signs: Vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures , and potentially acute...

 Introduction Backyard poultry farming is the backbone of the rural economy in Pakistan. This is an important source of protein and livelihood for millions of people. However, the recurring cases of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) create a critical and complex risk to the health of the birds and the public. As a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student, it has been noted that while large-scale poultry farming is protected through strict biosecurity measures, backyard farming is not. This is a critical weakness in the ability to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, where the Avian Influenza virus not only threatens the health of the birds but may also have the potential to spread to humans. Understanding the Virus and Its Transmission Avian Influenza is caused by Type A influenza viruses. These viruses are classified into different strains based on the combination of two antigens present on the surface of the viruses. These antigens are Hemagglutinin (H) and Neuraminidase (N). S...