This article will help veterinary team members refresh themselves about common dental radiography procedures. Topics covered include safety, equipment, views, and positioning.

Discospondylitis is an infection of the vertebral endplates and associated intervertebral disk. The infection typically starts in the vertebral end plate, then spreads to the adjacent intervertebral disc. The blood supply within the vertebral endplates consists of capillary beds with reduced blood flow velocity. Pores in the end plate that normally allow for distribution of more…

Pythiosis is a noncontagious disease caused by Pythiosis insidiosum, a fungus-like, protozoan organism. Until recently, it was considered to be a threat only to horses living in tropical or subtropical environments; however, it has been seen in many other areas of the United States, such as Illinois, New York, and even Wisconsin.1 Although dogs, cats, more…

Otitis externa is a common condition that is frequently seen in specialty dermatology clinics and small animal general practices.1,2 It is defined as inflammation of the ear canal with or without involvement of the pinna.1–3 Otitis is often considered a final diagnosis, but it is merely a clinical sign. The many factors that can contribute more…

A letter from the editor, Lynne Johnson-Harris

According to the American Psychological Association, resilience is “the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress.”1 Essentially, it means “bouncing back” from difficult experiences. What makes something difficult? The answer is…our brain does. Our experiences are not difficult until we have a thought that makes more…

A look at dog obesity and overweight prevalence from Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2017 State of Pet Health Report.

When I started my career as a veterinary technician, I had my hands full of “normal” work. I gave advice about food and prevention methods at the front desk. I made X-rays at the request of the veterinarian and used the microscope in the lab. My job included keeping animals alive that were under anesthesia more…

Animal cruelty carries legal consequences that veterinary professionals need to understand in identifying abuse. Learn how to document and report cruelty.

Within our own profession lies confusion about the scope of duties of a CVT, RVT, LVT or LVMT. The names themselves cause confusion, but more importantly, state practice acts compound that confusion—if veterinary technicians are even mentioned. Credentialed Veterinary Technicians/Nurses play a vital role in patient care on a daily basis. While many VTs feel more…

This article examines the important role microbiota plays in the development, immune regulation, and maintenance of an animal’s GI health.

The winter holiday season holds an abundance of dangers for domestic pets that could result in toxicosis. This article will focus on exposures to chocolate, grapes and raisins, and homemade playdough in dogs. Plants that dogs and cats are commonly exposed to during the winter months will also be discussed. The winter holiday season holds more…

What began as a routine condition and progressed to a dedicated, one-on-one nursing case, the case report outlines the importance of a thorough workup in managing a patient’s whole disease process and demonstrates the many aspects of renal care, management, and complications.