Many common parasites can not only make your pet itchy and uncomfortable, but also transmit certain diseases to both animals and people. Such diseases are known as zoonotic diseases. Keeping your pet safe from parasites also helps protect the rest of your family. Download PDF Fleas Fleas have been around for millions of years and are found all over the world. Diseases that people can get from fleas include plague and bartonellosis (“cat scratch fever”). Preventing fleas helps protect against these diseases and can be achieved with a variety of oral and topical medications. If a flea infestatio ..read more

Welcome to spring—the season of renewal, hope, and regrowth. As I look at the spring issue of Today’s Veterinary Nurse, I see parallels between the season and this issue’s learnings. There are many skills that we can refresh throughout our careers, whether we are new graduates or seasoned technicians like myself. This issue offers a fresh look at wound bandaging techniques and a reminder of the importance of recognizing and educating clients about the zoonotic risks of external parasites. We also know springtime to be kitten season! What better time to revisit the importance of properly f ..read more

The veterinary landscape is dynamic, and the role of veterinary nursing within it is evolving rapidly. With specialized expertise becoming increasingly crucial in animal health care, NAVTA has taken a pivotal step to elevate the profession: trademarking the “Veterinary Technician Specialist” (VTS) and “Veterinary Nurse Specialist” (VNS) logos. This landmark decision holds profound implications for the future of veterinary nursing, signifying a new era of recognition, legitimacy, and impactful specialization. From Supportive Roles to Essential Experts: A Profession in Bloom Veterinary nursing w ..read more

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has been at the forefront of animal rescue and protection since its founding as the first animal welfare organization in North America in 1866. For more than 150 years, the ASPCA has been the leading voice in animal welfare, bringing the critical protection of animals to the forefront of society. The modern challenges facing animals are complex, but the ASPCA tackles these challenges head-on and in innovative ways, including providing vital veterinary care; responding to disasters; pioneering adoption and behavioral rehabili ..read more

Abstract The nutritional requirements of neonatal kittens are specific to species, age, and health status. For orphaned kittens, those requirements need to be met by their caregiver. To give these fragile patients the best opportunities for growth and a healthy life, caregivers should be familiar with the nutrients required, commercial products available, and proper administration techniques. Take-Home Points The unique nutritional needs of kittens differ from those of dogs and cannot be entirely met by cows’ milk. Feedings that are frequent and include plenty of water are crucial for prevent ..read more

Abstract External parasites such as ticks, fleas, scabies mites, and harvest mites can transmit a variety of diseases not only to pets but also to humans. Parasite prevention and treatment are the most important aspects of limiting the zoonotic risks of ectoparasites, and veterinary nurses are in the position of ensuring that client communication covers each individual pet’s risk factors, preventive medications, comprehensive treatment plans, and specific parasite information. Take-Home Points Ticks, fleas, scabies mites, and harvest mites can transmit diseases to both pets and people; theref ..read more

Abstract Electrochemotherapy, a local treatment of various neoplasms, uses electroporation to change the permeability of cell membranes to facilitate the uptake of cytotoxic drugs. These drugs, injected directly into the tissue, would otherwise be unable to efficiently pass through the cell membrane. Electrochemotherapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of neoplastic processes and malignancies, sometimes in as little as a single treatment, with minimal to no side effects. It is best used to treat superficial tumors or areas where surgical excision was incomplete or coul ..read more

Abstract Wounds present in several ways. There are 3 phases of wound healing, and the stage of wound healing at presentation may dictate wound treatment. Wounds should be clipped and cleaned thoroughly when they first present. Topical treatments and proper bandaging techniques are crucial in ensuring that wounds heal properly. This article discusses the modified Robert Jones and tie-over bandaging techniques. Take-Home Points Modified Robert Jones (MRJ) bandages should be placed distal to proximal on a patient’s limb. When placing bandage layers, make sure that each layer overlaps the pr ..read more

Abstract Protein-losing diseases are common in dogs and cats. They are generally categorized as 2 different syndromes: protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) and protein-losing nephropathy (PLN). These diseases have multiple effects, including gastrointestinal tract and kidney dysfunction, decreased serum proteins, cachexia, increased blood pressure, and coagulopathies. Proper diagnosis of PLE and PLN requires patients to undergo anesthesia for advanced diagnostics such as biopsy and endoscopy; however, the comorbidities these patients present with can make anesthesia challenging. This article descr ..read more

Abstract Steroid-responsive meningitis–arteritis (SRMA) is a severely painful form of autoimmune meningitis most commonly diagnosed in young, large-breed dogs. The age most commonly affected is reported to be between 6 and 18 months. This case report describes the presenting complaint, examination findings, diagnostics, and treatment of a 6-year-old boxer ultimately diagnosed with SRMA after a full neurologic workup. Key points include a review of the neurologic history, exam, and advanced diagnostics used to aid with the final diagnosis, as well as a treatment plan. Take-Home Points Veterina ..read more