Lisa McGuigan with Candice Bowmanville Veterinary Clinic, Bowmanville, ON

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Treating cats in shock: they are not small dogsBy Marie K. Holowaychuk, DVM, Diplomate ACVECC

The physiologic response to shock, monitoring techniques used, and meth-ods of resuscitation are different in cats compared to dogs. Although the underlying etiologies and pathophysiology of shock are similar in the two species, care must be taken to treat cats appropriately in order to avoid life-threatening consequences.

DefinitionShock occurs when the delivery of oxygen to the tissues does not meet their oxygen requirement. The body compensates by diverting blood flow to the heart and brain. Other organs including the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, kidneys, and lungs sustain hypoxic injury as a result. In cats, the “shock organ” that is most affected during shock is the lung. Thus, cats will often present with respiratory signs including tachypnea, respiratory distress, and pale or grey mucous membranes.

Treating cats in shock continues on page 2

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to3662 Sawmill Valley DriveMississauga, Ontario L5L 2P6Publications Mail Agreement #41262570

Diagnosing and treating the “blocked cat”

By David Liss, RVT, VTS (ECC, SAIM)

The “blocked cat” suffers from a urethral obstruction, and most often demonstrates signs of low er urinary tract disease, in-cluding stranguria, dysuria, he-maturia, pollakiuria, and uro-

li thiasis. Cats tend to get oxalate and struvite stones even ly, therefore technicians should be familiar withurinalysis and the appearance of these crystals. Pa­tients are most often stable when presenting, but ap-proximately 12% can have life­threatening electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities that may result in death if not treated immediately.

History and clinical signsOften an owner will notice urine spotting, potentially with hematuria, frequent visits to the litter box, ex-cessive perineal licking, yowling, vocalizing, leth-argy, anorexia, constipation, or straining to urinate. These patients should have their bladder palpated immediately upon arrival, in addition to a TPR and primary survey. Clinical signs include a large firm bladder, abdominal pain, tachycardia, bradycardia,

Blocked cat continues on page 4

The ups and downs of working in theveterinary professionST. JOHN’S, NL – A growing awareness about the increasing number of veterinary professionals suffering from stress, addictions, and suicidal ideation has resulted in an emphasis on “what’s wrong” with the profession and/or its members. Much of the work to date has focused on how to prevent work-related problems like stress or burnout, explained Jean E. Wallace, PhD., presenting at the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Convention. An alternative approach, she said, is to examine what contributes to both positive and negative work experiences, and explore ways to cope with the negative in the veterinary technician profession while enhancing the potential for happiness.

To better understand work-related stress and coping mechanisms, Dr. Wallace and colleagues conducted email interviews with seven veterinarians and 13

Ups and downs continues on page 5

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Life of a Vet Tech: You see it all in shelter medicine – and that’s why I love it!

AAAHT News

Celebrating World Rabies Day

Technically Speaking

CVMA and CAAHTT join forces at annual CVMA Convention

MAHTA News

EVTA News

SAVT News

Considerations for the novice horse owner – the vet tech’s role

CVMA News

Continuing Education Calendar

Industry News

Table of ContentsFocus on:

CVMA/CAAHTT Convention, St. John’s,

Newfoundland and Labrador

NEWSMAGAZINE FOR REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIANS AND TECHNOLOGISTS FALL 2014 VOLUME 6, NO 4

FALL 20142

ClassificationHypovolemic shock is a common cause of shock in cats; examples in clude hem-orrhage due to trauma or coagulopathies. Cardiogenic shock occurs due to a decrease in cardiac output and is most commonly seen in cats with car-dio myopathies or arrhythmias. Distrib u tive shock occurs when there is dys-function of the microcirculation due to inappropriate arterial or venous dilation resulting in abnormal blood flow. This can occur in cats with sepsis or anaphylaxis. Obstructive shock happens when there is an obstruction of blood flow to or from the heart. The most common example of obstructive shock in cats is aortic thromboembolism (i.e., saddle thrombus), which can result in the absence of femoral pulses.

Clinical stages and signs Shock has been traditionally separated into three clinical stages: compensatory, early decompensatory, and decompensatory. Cats are different than dogs in that they rarely present with signs of compensatory shock, but are much more likely to show signs of early decompensatory or decompensatory shock. Signs noted during early decompensatory shock include tachycardia, normal to decreased pulse pressure, hypotension, pale mucous membranes, prolonged capillary refill time, decreased mentation, and decreased body temperature. Tachycardia does not occur in cats as often as dogs during this stage and should not be an expected finding. Clin ical signs of decompensatory shock include a low heart rate, severe hypotension, pale or grey mucous membranes, absent cap-illary refill, weak or absent pulses, de ­creased heart sounds, low body temp-erature, stuporous or comatose men-tation, and decreased or absent urine production. It is important to note that cats typically present with a trilogy of signs during shock regardless of the stage including hypothermia, hypotension, and bradycardia. A heart rate less than 160 bpm in a visibly sick cat is a concerning finding and is often a sign of shock.

Monitoring and diagnostic testsMonitoring cats in shock can be particularly difficult given that changes in their physical perfusion parameters are often subtle compared to dogs. Therefore, blood pressure monitoring ideally should be used to confirm the physical examination findings. Research studies have shown that in anaesthetized cats Doppler measurements more closely reflect the mean arterial blood pressure; however, this is debatable in awake or ill cats. Oscillometric devices generally underestimate systolic blood pressure in cats but are fairly accurate for mean and diastolic blood pressures.

Lactate measurements can be trended over time to assess the adequacy of fluid resuscitation or improvement in oxygen delivery during treatment for shock. Blood lactate can be easily measured in practice by the use of handheld devices, which have been validated for accuracy in cats. An ECG is helpful for assessing cats with bradycardia, tachycardia, pulse deficits, or a history of heart disease, and for enabling moment-to-moment monitoring of heart rate during resuscitation from shock. Pulse oximetry is a non­invasive method for assessing oxygenation and should also be measured in cats with shock. Additionally, electrolytes and blood glucose concentrations should always be measured if possible.

Ultrasound is another useful diagnostic tool, enabling performance of a FAST (focused assessment using sonography for trauma) exam to detect peritoneal or pleural effusion.

Treatment Early recognition and resuscitation are very important for the successful treatment of shock in cats. Cats can be difficult to resuscitate and often require more conservative management than dogs to avoid complications, such as fluid overload or pulmonary edema. Vascular access is a must when providing appropriate fluid resuscitation to cats in shock. Subcutaneous fluids are not appropriate in cats with evidence of shock and poor perfusion. Vascular access can be obtained via the cephalic or medial saphenous veins. The volume of fluid required for treating shock is based on the cat’s

weight and estimated blood volume. If crystalloid fluids are used, one full blood volume might need to be administered over one hour. The blood volume of cats is estimated to be 45­60 mL/kg and is less than that of dogs. The response to fluid resuscitation should determine the volume of fluid that is administered.

The recommended regimen for fluid resuscitation during shock is to divide the total volume to be given over one hour into four aliquots (10­15 mL/kg) and recheck the cat’s perfusion parameters every 15 minutes to determine the response. If the clinical signs of shock resolve after the first 15 minutes, there is no need to proceed with another bolus of fluid. Consider giving a fluid bolus by drawing the amount of fluid up into a syringe and manually “pushing” it into the cat over 10­15 minutes. Balanced electrolyte solutions (i.e., LRS, Plasmalyte­148, Plasmalyte­A) are preferred over normal saline (0.9% NaCl); however, any isotonic fluid that is available can be used. Because cats in shock are typically hypothermic, it is beneficial to warm fluids prior to administration if possible.

Hypertonic saline (3­7%) can be considered during fluid resuscitation of shock in cats with head trauma. Hypertonic saline reduces intracranial pressure, increases blood pressure, and improves cerebral perfusion. Care should be taken not to administer hypertonic saline too quickly as it can cause bronchoconstriction. Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solutions (e.g.,

Vetstarch®) are administered for vol-ume resuscitation in cats with shock and hypoproteinemia, such as those with sepsis or trauma. Potential com­plications of HES solution admin is-tration include volume overload, coag- ulopathies, and kidney injury. Cats are especially sensitive to boluses of HES solutions and will vomit if administered too quickly.

For cats in hypovolemic shock due to hemorrhage, a whole blood trans-fusion might be necessary. Remember that cats must be blood typed (or cross matched) prior to receiving a blood transfusion of any kind, as type A-B incompatibilities in cats can result in lethal transfusion reactions.

Cats in shock will not be able to elicit the same signs of pain that are recognized in otherwise normal cats (e.g., tachycardia, restlessness, irrit-ability, withdrawn demeanor). Therefore, if the cat has experienced a trau-matic event (e.g., dog attack, hit by car) it must be assumed that pain relief is warranted. Due to the critical nature of cats that are in shock, as well as cats’ sensitivity to opioids, it is best to titrate pain-relieving medications to effect. Ideally, opioids such as hydromorphone, fentanyl, or buprenorphine should be used. Non­steroidal anti­inflammatories should be avoided in cats due to the risk of acute kidney injury.

It is very common for cats in shock to be hypothermic. The low body temperature is often exacerbated by the low heart rate and subsequent low cardiac output. Unfortunately, hypothermia will also heighten bradycardia by depressing the sinus node. Therefore, it is very important that attempts be made to warm cats during shock resuscitation by applying external warming sources such as a circulating warm water blanket, forced warm air blower, or heated towel to the cat.

Oxygen supplementation should also be administered in cats whose SpO2 is less than 95% to improve oxygen delivery to tissues, but in such a way that will not cause stress to the cat. The easiest methods during the resuscitation period are flow­by (blow­by), mask oxygen, or in an oxygen hood, cage, or incubator.

ConclusionsIf shock is detected quickly and treated appropriately in cats, the outcome can be successful. Just remember that cats are unique and must be diagnosed and managed differently than dogs.

This article is based on Dr. Holowaychuk’s presentation at the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Convention in St. John’s, NL.

The CE quiz on this article is available for completion online at www.k2publishing.ca

Treating cats in shock continued from page 1

Shock has been traditionally separated into three clinical stages: compensatory, early decompensatory, and decompensatory.

Cats are different than dogs in that they rarely present with signs of compensatory shock, but

are much more likely to show signs of early decompensatory or decompensatory shock.

FALL 2014 3

You see it all in shelter medicine – and that’s why I love it!Life of a Vet Tech

My earliest memories of my childhood always included dogs and I was lucky to have owned a variety of pets (rabbits, birds, turtles) which taught me at a very young age to love and respect all animals. I started my career quite by accident, by visiting the local Ontario SPCA with my aunt to inquire about how she could help feral cats. During that visit I picked up a volunteer application and I haven’t looked back. My volunteer position turned into a part-time job cleaning kennels and eventually moved into the receptionist role. My colleague at the time was considering going to college for the Veterinary Technician program and I asked her what a Veterinary Technician was (to be honest I had no idea!). Her explanation piqued my interest and propelled my career path. I attended Ridgetown College, University of Guelph, completing my VT diploma while working weekends at the animal shelter. After graduation I moved into a mixed then small animal practice where I spent the next decade honing my skills. When an opportunity arose to return to shelter medicine I jumped at the chance. I moved to Brampton to join the Brampton Animal Shelter where I am currently employed.

Shelter medicine is unique in that the majority of the animals you are caring for arrived as strays with an unknown history. Many animals enter the shelter suffering from an illness or injury, while others are victims of neglect with matted coats, overgrown nails, and they may be emaciated. Some are fearful, others aggressive, but many are happy and healthy. In some cases the pet may be surrendered to the shelter through no fault of their own, often because the owner has fallen on hard times and is no longer able to care for the animal.

You see it all in shelter medicine, from purebreds to crossbreeds, newborns to seniors, pregnant queens to countless litters of kittens, budgies, parrots, hamsters. rabbits, and the list goes on. We have even housed reptiles, goats, snakes, pigs, chickens, swans, peacocks, and an alligator. Yes, I said alligator! We also see countless wildlife (from ducklings to fawns) arrive which we house temporarily until we can arrange for a volunteer driver to transport them to a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. We never know what will enter our doors but this is what makes sheltering both exciting and rewarding.

Shelter medicine is unpredictable and although every day is unique in some way an average day includes such tasks as physical exams and prophylactic care for new intakes, behavioural assessments, nursing care of sick animals, laboratory procedures, triage of injured/orphaned wildlife, and public education. In our shelter, euthanasia occurs when animals are very ill or the animal cannot be rehabilitated behaviourally to place in an adoptive home. Euthanasia is not used as a tool to make kennel space nor is there a time limit on the length of stay in the shelter. We focus on enrichment to satisfy the animal’s behavioural needs, improve adoptability, and make their stay in the shelter as comfortable as possible. Despite our best efforts, some animals may become depressed or frustrated with long-term housing; we make every effort to transfer them to a foster home to await adoption.

The most difficult aspect of my career is the stigma surrounding animal shelters. When I first started working in a shelter I was often made to feel like a terrible person because the general perception (both within the industry and the general public) was that we existed solely to euthanize animals. I often heard things like “Don’t take it to the shelter, they will just euthanize it” or “How can you work in a place like that?” Needless to say these sorts of comments were very disheartening to hear and completely off base. Employees working in shelters care deeply for the animals and do everything they can to try to reunite lost pets with their owners or alternatively find them the perfect home. They nurse animals back to health, socialize feral kittens, work tirelessly to find rescues for those special needs animals, and spend their own time and money to transport wildlife to rehabbers. They enter the field to help not harm animals. I am happy to say that opinions are changing and I have seen a shift since the beginning of my career. Shelters are gaining the support of their communities and often rely heavily on outstanding volunteers to spend that extra time giving individual attention to each animal. I am proud to advocate for the work shelters do and remind everyone that shelters exist as a result of societal problems.

The best part of my job is watching that animal walk out our front doors with their new family in tow. Some animals are easy to adopt out, but others are more challenging, such as senior pets or those with specific medical requirements. Recently I was brought to tears as I watched a long-term resident of the shelter get adopted by a great family including a little boy who would soon be the dog’s best friend. “Calico” was a special case, a boxer cross that became quite ill requiring emergency surgery followed by a long­term hospital stay. We are fortunate to have the HOPE fund (Helping Orphaned Pets in Emergencies), whereby donations are accepted in order to provide extensive medical care to animals in need. “Calico” returned to the shelter to recover from her surgery and within hours of being made available she was adopted! The satisfaction in seeing a dog that we nearly lost get a second chance at love is priceless and that is what makes our jobs so much more than a paycheque!

Stephanie Miller is a Registered Veterinary Technician. In addition to working as an RVT for 15 years, and 5 years previous to that as a Kennel Attendant and Receptionist with the OSPCA, Stephanie has also served as a Professor in the Animal Care Program at Sheridan College, teaching the Wildlife Management course and currently sits on the College’s Program Advisory Committee for both the Veterinary Technician and Animal Care programs. She shares her home with a pug mix named “Phoebe” and a lab-shepherd cross named “Soloman”, both adopted from shelters. Stephanie is an avid traveller and in 2007 she went to South Africa for three weeks to participate in a Vet Nurses in the Wild expedition. Her dream is to travel to Borneo to volunteer with the Orangutan Foundation International.

Stephanie Miller, RVT

Published four times annually by K2 Animal Health Publishing.Telephone: 905­607­7338 Toll-free: 1­888­607­7338 Fax: 905­607­0181

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NEWSMAGAZINE FOR REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIANS AND TECHNOLOGISTS

FALL 20144Blocked cat continued from page 1

hypothermia, hyperthermia, tachypnea, lateral recumbency, obtundation, and vocalization.

PathophysiologyMost cats obstruct due to a mucous plug or small urolith (grit) lodging in their urethra. As urinary output decreases, the bladder fills. Inability to urinate causes an increase in uremic toxins, such as BUN and creatinine, and decreased excretion of potassium and phosphorus ions. As water intake decreases, pa-tients become dehydrated and hypovolemic. The severe metabolic derange-ments can contribute to a metabolic acidosis, caused by inability to excrete hydrogen ions and accumulation of lactate, and this worsens the process. Hyperkalemia can cause cardiovascular arrhythmias, which can result in death. As the bladder continues to fill, wall necrosis occurs, placing the animal at risk for bladder rupture and subsequent uroperitoneum. In addition to mucous plugs, neoplasms causing urethral obstruction are seen; these are typically associated with transitional and squamous cell carcinomas. In rare cases, urethral strictures can also cause obstruction.

Initial interventionsThe first goal is to identify and treat any underlying metabolic/acid­base abnormalities, followed by relieving the urethral obstruction. In order to restore circulating volume, an IV catheter should be placed, and an ECG and minimum database performed. The minimum database often reveals low pH, low bicarbonate, low calcium, high potassium, high BUN, and high lactate. Initial IV fluid therapy is achieved with a balanced crystalloid solution. It was once recommended to use 0.9% NaCl fluids because they have no potassium, however, recent studies indicate the small amount of potassium in balanced solutions like Normosol­R, Lactated Ringer’s, or Plasma­lyte, rarely contribute to worsening hyperkalemia. In addition, these solutions have buffers to help restore normal blood pH; in contrast, 0.9% NaCL is acidic. Sometimes an initial fluid bolus will be enough to lower the serum potassium to normal, or lower than critical range. In addition, fluids may help restore perfusion and return lactate levels to normal. Common ECG findings with hyperkalemia include: depressed or absent P­waves (atrial standstill), wide QRS complexes, tall T-waves, ventricular tachycardia, or sinus tachycardia.

Metabolic and acid-base disturbances should be addressed before the patient is anesthetized/sedated for urethral de-obstruction procedures. Once IV fluids have been given, if the patient is still severely hyperkalemic other treatment should be instituted to address that. Once the blocked cat has been stabilized and the serum potassium has been lowered, they are ready for de-obstruction.

Opioid/benzodiazepine combinations may provide enough sedation for urethral catheterization. Cats do not tend to do well with large doses of opioids. Oxymorphone, anecdotally, seems to be a decent choice for a pure mu opioid in the cat.

Butorphanol is an excellent sedative, but does not provide adequate analgesia. It can be combined with a benzodiazepine for excellent sed-ation. Ketamine/diazepam combinations are controversial; ketamine is excreted in the kidney in the cat, and urethral obstruction can cause accumulation of the drug. Yet if the goal is to quickly de-obstruct these patients some authors think it is not much of a concern. Since ketamine is contraindicated in heart disease, however, it is important to make sure the cat has first been auscultated.

Propofol can be used but it is a negative inotrope and vasodilator. Thus, it is recommended to use as little Propofol as possible.

Once anesthesia is achieved, these patients can be maintained on gas anesthesia and titrated as needed.

De-obstruction procedureOnce the patient is ready for catheterization, the penis can be extruded and should be examined for mucus or grit. Sometimes this can be teased out and the obstruction relieved. If urohydropropulsion is to be used, an open-end tomcat catheter, or sterilized olive tip catheter, can be used. The catheter is lubricated and gently advanced into the urethra until resistance or grit is felt. Saline is gently pulsed into the catheter to relieve the obstruction. The process can be long and tedious, but once the obstruction is popped

back into the bladder, the bladder should be emptied. Then longer-term urinary catheterization is performed using a 3.5Fr or 5Fr red rubber catheter. This catheter should be pre-measured, and an x-ray post placement should be taken to avoid excessive lengths of catheter in the bladder. This can be sutured in using a variety of methods including placing stay sutures, tape or Elastikon, staples, or suturing directly to the prepuce. An E-collar should be placed on the patient to avoid removal. The bladder should be flushed with copious amounts of saline. Anecdotally, it is recommended to flush until the urine is somewhat clear, especially if gross hematuria is present. Once this is done, the urinary catheter should be connected to a sterilized closed system. The majority of cases of urethral obstruction are caused by sterile cystitis, and some are caused by idiopathic cystitis unrelated to urolithiasis. Leaving a catheter open puts the patient at risk for an iatrogenic resistant UTI. Patients can be stabilized, discharged, and seen a few days later for a cystocentesis and urine culture submission.

Nursing carePost­obstruction patients require intensive nursing care. Their analgesic needs can be met by administering intravenous, and later transmucosal buprenorphine. Patients may be started on anti­spasmodic medications such as phenoxybenzamine or prazosin. However, these drugs are vasodilators and hypotension can occur. It is recommended to monitor the cat’s cardiovascular status when starting these drugs. Since these patients have an invasive urinary catheter in place, proper care and maintenance is required to prevent iatrogenic UTI development. Catheters should be inspected for patency daily every 4­6 hours, and cleaned with a dilute chlorhexidine solution. Urinary output should be monitored daily every 4 hours by using a needle and syringe, and not disconnecting the IV bag from the soluset. The bag and line should be changed every 24 hours as needed. Urine output should be monitored closely in these patients. They often suffer from post-obstructive diuresis and the kidneys go into overdrive. In this case, the patient needs their IV fluids increased, not decreased. Lowering the fluids in evidence of excessive urinary output could be detrimental. Once patients are more stable, 12 hours after de­obstruction, their nursing care can be limited to pain assessment/scoring, urinary catheter care, and TLC (food and water should be offered). Most patients go home 2-3 days after obstruction relief.

Medical managementThis is considered very important in feline patients to prevent recurrence of FLUTD. If the cause is not a urolith, it is often feline idiopathic sterile cystitis. Treatments include stress reduction, moist food, increased water intake, glycosaminoglycans (glucosamine and chondroitin), and potentially feline pheromones (Feliway®). If uroliths are the cause, feeding a canned urinary diet, with increased access to water (fountains, etc.) helps dilute urine. In addition, glycosaminoglycans can also be used. Urine should be submitted for culture and sensitivity, and antimicrobial medications used if indicated.

This article is based on a presentation given by Mr. Liss at the Atlantic Provinces Veterinary Conference in Halifax, NS.

The CE quiz on this article is available for completion online at www.k2publishing.ca

How do you like our new look?In celebration of the up coming 10th an-niversary of Canadian Vet news mag azine, in January 2015, we have given both of our magazines a fresh new look!

Feel free to let us know what you think of the new design, by sending an e-mail to info@k2publishing.ca.

FALL 2014 5

3

• Internalization of stress is also a popular response described in the e-interviews. This may involve ignoring the stress and trying to work through it, or keeping it to one’s self and not talking about it with others. “Work harder... shrug and move on.” “I may or may not tell my family. I usually keep it in and may talk about it later.” “Just push through – no sense in getting stuck on things and deal with it with whatever means you have available.” “I internalize it so that the staff and clients don’t see that there are issues and to keep everyone happy and keep things moving along... Sometimes internalize so my family does not have to hear about. Sometimes I let loose and vent about it to my wife.”

Table 3 shows different internalization strategies and that keeping it to themselves is the most popular of the four in this table, where25% keep it to themselves “often” or “most of the time” and almost half (43%) “sometimes”. Almost half (42%) “sometimes” carry on as if nothing has happened with 18% doing this “often” or “most of the time”.

4 days or less Less than

once a week

5 days a week

Once a week

6 days a week Several times

a week

7 days a week Almost daily

0

20

40

60

80

100

Eat main meals together with the entire family. Moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes.

% o

f Res

pons

es

Table 2. How Often Do You Do the Following?

0

20

40

60

80

100

I keep it to myself. I do nothing and try to carry on as usual.

I feel uneasy talking to others about my work

stress.

I have a drink at the end of the day.

% o

f Res

pons

es

Table 3. How Often Do You Do the Following in Dealing with Work-Related Stress? (N=805)

Never/Not very often Sometimes Often Most of the time

3

• Internalization of stress is also a popular response described in the e-interviews. This may involve ignoring the stress and trying to work through it, or keeping it to one’s self and not talking about it with others. “Work harder... shrug and move on.” “I may or may not tell my family. I usually keep it in and may talk about it later.” “Just push through – no sense in getting stuck on things and deal with it with whatever means you have available.” “I internalize it so that the staff and clients don’t see that there are issues and to keep everyone happy and keep things moving along... Sometimes internalize so my family does not have to hear about. Sometimes I let loose and vent about it to my wife.”

Table 3 shows different internalization strategies and that keeping it to themselves is the most popular of the four in this table, where25% keep it to themselves “often” or “most of the time” and almost half (43%) “sometimes”. Almost half (42%) “sometimes” carry on as if nothing has happened with 18% doing this “often” or “most of the time”.

4 days or less Less than

once a week

5 days a week

Once a week

6 days a week Several times

a week

7 days a week Almost daily

0

20

40

60

80

100

Eat main meals together with the entire family. Moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes.

% o

f Res

pons

es

Table 2. How Often Do You Do the Following?

0

20

40

60

80

100

I keep it to myself. I do nothing and try to carry on as usual.

I feel uneasy talking to others about my work

stress.

I have a drink at the end of the day.

% o

f Res

pons

es

Table 3. How Often Do You Do the Following in Dealing with Work-Related Stress? (N=805)

Never/Not very often Sometimes Often Most of the time

animal health technicians (AHTs) representing different practice settings in Alberta. They were asked how satisfied they are with their work and how they cope with work stress, and were asked to provide advice to other veterinarians and AHTs. A month later, in April 2013, 537 veterinarians and 453 AHTs submitted an Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) online member wellness survey that measured work stressors, coping strategies, and feelings of burnout.

What vets and techs like the most about their jobs Table 1 shows how satisfied veterinarians and AHTs are with their work. Most feel enthusiastic about their work most days (78%), 79% say they find real enjoyment in their work, and 87% say they definitely like their work. There were no statistically significant differences in the satisfaction scores for veterinarians versus AHTs, by supervisory status or job position, or by age group. While there were no significant differences in job satisfaction for veterinarians who work in clinical settings compared to those in other set tings, technicians working in clinics reported significantly higher job satisfaction scores

than those working in other settings.

When asked what they love about their jobs, the four most com -mon re sponses were (1)making a diff erence byhelping animals, (2) mak ing a difference byhelping clients, (3) hav-ing challenging inter-esting work, and (4) having supportive co-worker relationships.

What stresses vets and techs out the most about their jobsWhen asked about the characteristics of their jobs that create the most stress, about 20% of both veterinarians and AHTs reported unrealistic client expectations.

In the survey, they were also asked aboutspecific work stressorsand both vets and AHTs reported euthanasia ofanimals and clients fac-ing financial barriers to care the highest on their list (See Tables 2 and 3).

As one veterinarian wrote: “Euthanizing an-imals has become very stressful; some CE on how to deal with grief

would be beneficial”. Another wrote, “I drove home crying tonight as I was upset about a case of mine that was euthanized, but I still love my job.”

With regard to the financial barriers some clients face, and the impact on their pets’ lives, one comment was “I find it stressful when a client cannot afford something that I feel would benefit their animal(s). I feel “guilty” if I know there is something I can do to help them but they cannot afford it and I

cannot afford to do it pro bono. I know that I undervalue some of the things we do so I stay away from the billing side of things.”

How vets and AHTs manage stressWhen asked how they cope with work-related stress, vets and AHTs described a number of different strategies, including calming down, trying to relax, or turning to colleagues for help. One wrote, “I try to make the best of it. I will sometimes take a break and go outside for some fresh air. I always go home at lunchtime, which makes the day seem less long. I will talk to a co-worker about my issue and vent a bit.”

The survey also showed that vets and AHTs tend to use four different coping strategies, with almost half using them “sometimes” and about one-third using them “often”. One­fifth of vets and techs also report that their colleagues help them to figure out how to solve a work­related problem “most of the time.”

Table 4 shows the survey results where slightly more than half of the respondents usually eat dinner with their family most days of the week (five or more days/week). It also shows that 25% exercise almost daily and 40% engage in moderate physical activity several times a week for at least 30 minutes.

The internalization of stress was also a common response described in the e-interviews. This may involve ignoring stress and trying to work through it, or keeping to one’s self and not talking about it with others. Table 5 shows that one-quarter keep their feelings to themselves “often” or “most of the time” and almost half (43%) “Sometimes” do. Almost half (42%) “Sometimes” carry on as if nothing has happened, and 18% do this “often” or “most of the time”.

The relationship between job stress and burnoutDr. Wallace and colleagues also found that some vets and AHTs have internalized coping strategies that may in fact increase feelings of burnout (see Table 5). “Burnout” refers to feeling emotionally overextended and drained as a result of one’s work.

Strategies include keeping problems to oneself, doing nothing, and not talking to others about problems. In addition, it appears that having a drink at the end of the day to cope with work-related stress is also harmful to the vets and AHTs wellbeing. In fact, the more often they drink to cope with work-related stress, the more burned out they feel from work.

Burnout was measured by a five­item scale that assesses how often vets and AHTs experience the following: “I feel emotionally drained from my work”; “I feel used up at the end of the workday”; “I feel tired when I get up and have to face another day on the job”; “I feel that working all day is really a strain for me”; and “I feel burned out from my work”. Responses were tallied and averaged to get an overall

Ups and downs continued from page 1

2

And a technician expressed her job satisfaction as follows: “Working with the patients and their owners to improve their pet’s quality of life. Building rapport with the owners and working with a great team of individuals.” Comparisons were made across a number of factors to see if any groups are significantly more satisfied than others. There were no statistically significant differences in the satisfaction scores for veterinarians vs. technicians, by supervisory status or job position, or by age group. There are too few men to

make meaningful gender comparisons for technicians, but the gender comparisons for veterinarians’ satisfaction scores showed no significant difference. While there was no significant differences in job satisfaction for veterinarians who work in clinic settings compared to those in other settings, technicians working in clinics reported significantly higher job satisfaction scores than those working in other settings.

What they Love about their Jobs

Both interview and survey data were used to identify the best parts of veterinarians and technicians work by asking them to describe what gives them the greatest job satisfaction. Four popular sources of enjoyment were identified that include: (1) making a difference by helping animals, (2) making a difference by helping clients, (3) having challenging interesting work, and (4) having supportive coworker relationships. Participants’ descriptions of these sources of job satisfaction are presented below. In addition, data from the survey provides frequency distributions of how often they experience these different aspects of their jobs. Making a Difference by Helping Animals Veterinarians and technicians alike identified making a difference in the lives of animals in terms of working with and helping animals as one of the most satisfying parts of their job. They described the enjoyment of caring for animals and making a difference in their quality of life. When asked to describe what they enjoy the most or gives them the greatest satisfaction in their job, some participants responded as follows:

“Helping animals live, longer healthy lives.” “Contributing to healthy special relationships between people and their pets.” “Promoting/emphasizing and protecting the human-animal bond.” “When I am able to successfully help an animal improve their mobility and quality of life and their owners have more time to spend with them or are able to continue their activity of choice.” “Knowing I'm doing something good in the world. Helping those who can't help themselves.”

58% 58%

34%

20% 21%

53%

0

20

40

60

80

100

Most days I am enthusiastic about

my work

I find real enjoyment in my

work

I definitely like my work

% o

f Res

pons

es

Table 1. How Satisfied are You with Your Work? (N=829)

Strongly Disagree/Disagree Neither Agree or Disagree Agree Strongly Agree

3

A technician working in a rural mixed practice described a stressful parts of her job is as: “The increasing demands of the public for instant service while they challenge you with Dr Google...” • Conflict between client interests and what is best for the animal is a regular source of stress, particularly for veterinarians. For example: “Clients that want us to help the pet for free, and blame us for costs of health care.”

• • Trying to meet the financial expectations of the employing organization is stressful, especially for veterinarians. Two

veterinarians describe financial issues as the most stressful part of their work: “Dealing with financial/business management issues that I have no training in. Dealing with rising costs, rent and an aging clinic with a half-million dollar business loan and tens of thousands of dollars in student loans as well.” “Low revenue day (especially when you feel like you have been working your ass off all day).”

Health Risks

Table 4 shows some of the health risks that AHTs and veterinarians encounter in their work.

• Almost half of both groups regularly report improper posture, but more technicians report improper lifting.

0

10

20

30

40

50

Risk of serious injury

Risk of minor injury

Improper lifting

Improper posture

% O

ften

or M

ost o

f the

Tim

e

Table 4. Technicians' (N=407) & Veterinarians' (N=437) Health Risks During Work Week

Techs Vets

0

10

20

30

40

Unrealistic client expectations

Conflict between client-animal

interests

Trying to meet organization's

financial expectations

% O

ften

or M

ost o

f the

Tim

e

Table 3. Technicians' (N=407) & Veterinarians' (N=437) Sources of Work Stress

Techs Vets

• Few technicians and veterinarians are regularly at risk of serious injury, but one-quarter are regularly at risk of minor injury. “A few years ago due to a work place injury I had to not only leave the job I loved, but potentially change careers completely.” “Numerous staff have been injured by bulls upon semen testing, restraint and proper care of companion animals has been below an acceptable level... and in the end, those were among deciding reasons why I left in pursuit of learning more about animals in a happier, healthier environment.”

Table 2.

4

Clinic-Specific Work Stress In the survey, technicians and veterinarians reported on how often they experience specific work stressors relevant to working with clinical cases. Table 5 shows work stressors related to animal care, finances and clients.

• Veterinarians more regularly have concerns about the financial situation of clinic and inadequate resources than technicians. Two veterinarians wrote: “When I was an associate, I only had the stress of patient outcomes (and the aforementioned mistakes). As an owner, I have HR and financial stress as well. The HR and financial stresses comes in waves but when they are bad, they are really bad. “ “Finances are usually part of most stress – it drives client responses to situations, it complicates practicing the way we want too, it is a problem for new graduates, it affects our options in staffing, products, equipment, continuing education, working environment etc.”

• Relatively few technicians and veterinarians report that they regularly encounter animal suffering, but about 70% of both groups regularly deal with euthanasia of animals. For example: “I drove home crying tonight as I was upset about a case of mine that was euthanized but I still love my job.” “I had to stop working as a veterinarian because euthanasia bothered me so much. It would upset me for day/weeks. Still does. I do much better as a manager and am much happier.”

• Veterinarians more regularly deal with client grief than AHTs. As one veterinarian wrote:

“Euthanizing animals has become very stressful, some CE on how to deal with grief would be beneficial.”

• About half of technicians and veterinarians regularly find clients’ financial situation is a barrier to best care for their animals (Table 5). Both raised this concern in the e-interviews as being particularly stressful: “Frustrating clients that can’t treat due to lack of money or just not caring about their pet.” “I find it stressful when a client cannot afford something that I feel would benefit their animal(s). I feel “guilty” if I know there is something I can do to help them but they cannot afford it and I cannot afford to do it pro bono. I know that I undervalue some of the things we do so I stay away from the billing side of things. “

0

20

40

60

80

Inadequate resources

(equip, tests)

Animal suffering Concern about clinic financial

situation

Dealing with client grief

Clients financial barriers to best

care

Euthanasia of animals

% O

ften

or M

ost o

f the

Tim

e

Table 5. Technicians' (N=279) & Veterinarians' (N=393) Clinic Work Stressors

Techs Vets

Table 3.

Table 4.

Table 5.

to

FALL 20146

burnout score that ranges from 1 (low burnout) to 5 (high burnout). They then assessed which coping strategies had the most impact on burnout. These included: “Think calmly about what to do”, “Try to refresh self by relaxing activities”, “Do something that calms me down”, and “Colleagues help solve work problem”.

They also found that after leaving work, the more main meal times that veterinarians and AHTs spend with their family, and the more frequently they exercise, the less often they feel burned out from their work. CVT

How to e�ectively cope with work-related stress

• Calm yourself during your work day – take a time out, walk, or co�ee break• Do relaxing things – quiet time at work, other activities after work• Avoid keeping it to yourself – talk to others• Talk to colleagues and ask for help• Don’t ignore the stress• Spend time with family – share activities with family and friends outside of work• Try to avoid alcohol as a coping strategy• Exercise several times a week

Advice from vets and AHTs

In the e-interviews, participants were asked what advice, if any, they would o�er to other veterinarians or AHTs. Here are a few of the responses:• “Teams that do not work well together jeopardize the health and

wellbeing of the animal and lead to burnout among the sta�”.• “I would recommend making sure you have good balance between

amount of work and play”.• “Take time for yourself and be healthy”.

Alberta Association of Animal Health Technologists update

Celebrating World Rabies Day

By Vanessa Christensen-George, RAHT,AAAHT President for 2015

As we approach the 2014 AAAHT Leadership Weekend in November, as a Board, this is a bittersweet occasion. This is the end of a wonderful 2014 for the Association and a new beginning for 2015. On behalf of the 2015 Board and Committees we would like to thank Colleen

Cope for her contributions to the CE Committee; to Andrea Edwards for her hard work and dedication in her Presidential role as well as her time and efforts in planning and ensuring our 35th Anniversary Conference went off without a hitch; and to Lucille Landals who has been an invaluable asset to the Association and our Board. Though her role as Past President comes to an end this year, we are pleased to have her wisdom and guidance remain with us for 2015 as she continues on with us in an administrative capacity.

The slogan we used for our 35th Anniversary in 2014 couldn’t be more fitting for us as we look towards 2015: “Celebrate our Past, Plan our Future”. Starting in November, the Board’s main focus is on strategic planning…where are we headed? We welcome Ms. Maryann Urbanowski who will facilitate a Board assessment workshop at our Leadership weekend, as well as a 3­day strategic planning weekend in early 2015 to establish priorities and goals for our Association.

Another major focus in 2015 is the continuation of regional CE workshops with a specific focus on member wellness. With the tragic passing of our dear friend and colleague Dr. Sophia Yin in September still lingering with us, the AAAHT encourages all members to attend these seminars being held in Edmonton and Calgary.

The Communications Committee will again be focusing on public aware ness of our profession at public conventions and trade fairs as well as professional support at industry events. These events are a great way to showcase our Association and profession to the public, but it takes a lot of time, planning and volunteers to make these events happen. If you are interested in volunteering with your Association, but aren’t able to commit to a committee or Board position, we always are looking for volunteers to help in our booths, talking and educating the public on what an AHT does. I truly look forward to 2015, and what it has in store for the AAAHT. This is my sixth year on the Board of Directors and I couldn’t feel more proud to take on the role of your President.

For further information regarding any of the above feel free to inquire with the AAAHT via email to admin.aaaht@abvma.ca.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 55,000 people worldwide die of rabies every year, mostly in Asia and Africa.

On September 28 countries around the world recognized World Rabies Day. In Cape Town, South Africa, Professor Michael Day, Chairman of the One Health Committee of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), highlighted the progress being made in moving towards the elimination of rabies, while recognizing that there is still much to be done.

“The global elimination of canine rabies is a key priority for the One Health Committee and, during WSAVA World Congress, we discussed rabies control projects across Africa, as well as strategies for global rabies elimination by the target date of 2030 we have set jointly with International Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). Our delegates learned about successful mass vaccination campaigns in Tanzania, Kwa Zulu Natal, and Kenya, and discussed epidemiological modelling and molecular typing of rabies variants.”

He added: “On World Rabies Day it’s encouraging to be able to report real progress in fighting the disease, thanks to the dedication and passion shown by many individuals. If we continue to work together with such focus and commitment, we will make even more progress before the next World Rabies Day.”

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) is an um brel la organization representing 145,000 veterinarians globally through 92 mem­ber associations. As well, in an effort to reduce human fatalities and free the world of rabies, Merck Animal Health is supporting organizations that work to fight rabies through the Afya Project.

Through the Afya Project, Merck Animal Health has donated more than 1 million doses of NOBIVAC Rabies vaccines to some of the most at­risk regions in the world and is donating an additional 300,000 doses this year. The program runs in more than 20 developed countries, where participating veterinarians and pet owners who chose Merck Animal Health’s NOBIVAC Rabies vaccine, have their usage matched by a company donation of rabies vaccine.

Merial, the animal health division of Sanofi, has supported World Rabies Day since its inception in 2007 and advocates in the public health realm to reduce the burden of rabies at the global level. Merial is encouraging everyone to participate in GARC’s “Me and My Dog – Together Against Rabies” campaign by sharing a photo of themselves with their dog on social media and using the hash tags #TogetherAgainstRabies and #MerialMeAndMyDog.

For more information about WSAVA visit www.wsava.org, and for information about the Afya Project visit www.afya.org.

A dog being vaccinated during a mass vaccination activity in India

FALL 2014 7

Technically Speaking1. You are looking at a Romanowsky­stained blood smear from Polly, a

12­year­old Labrador retriever. Around the feathered edge you see a red blood cell that appears to have four lobes. What is it called?a) A reticulocyteb) A quatrefoil red blood cellc) A metarubricyted) It is not a red blood cell at all - it must be something else

2. Which statement about pain management is incorrect?a) Buprenorphine is 30 times more potent than morphineb) Technicians may easily confuse pain with insomnia, separation from owners, and the need to urinatec) Cats and kittens have the same post-operative pain after routine spays d) Patients in pain may automatically position themselves in uncomfortable ways

3. You want to reduce the risk of disease transmission from the clinic’s ultrasound. What simple step could you take?a) Clean the probe with soap and waterb) Clean the probe with 2% chlorhexidine c) Clean the probe with 70% alcohold) b and c

4. You will be the anesthetist monitoring Simba, a cat with a diagnosed condition. In order to properly care for him under anesthetic, you will take his blood glucose level before, during, and after surgery. You will also have appropriate dextrose fluids on hand should he need it. What condition does Simba have?a) Renal failureb) Liver diseasec) Cardiac diseased) None of the above

5. Which item will not be completely sterilized by an autoclave, even if you follow the proper procedure?a) A clean-looking surgical drape laundered with a small amount of detergentb) A roll of unused Vetrap™ bandage materialc) A metal food dish contaminated with canine parvovirusd) A surgical gown with a hole in it

6. You are counselling Mrs. Hooper on how to brush her cat’s teeth. What will you say?a) Toothbrushing can completely replace regular dental prophylaxis if done on a regular basisb) You should hold the toothbrush at a 90­degree angle to the toothc) You should not use human toothpaste d) You should concentrate on cleaning all sides of your cat’s teeth

7. Trixie is a nervous cat from the local shelter who must stay at the clinic because she needs daily laser therapy treatments for an open wound. The shelter is experiencing an outbreak of upper respiratory disease, and Trixie was exposed to it. However, Trixie is not showing any clinical signs. What can you do to decrease the risk of Trixie developing an upper respiratory infection?a) Give Trixie lots of patsb) Talk to Trixie a lotc) Keep Trixie away from the shelter for nowd) All of the above

8. The new technician is worried because Norman, a dog undergoing a routine neuter, has a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 50. Norman’s fluids are at a surgical maintenance rate, and he has not had significant fluid loss during surgery. You observe Norman to be at a surgical anesthetic plane, and his vitals are otherwise normal. You suspect that the low reading is related to the size or placement of the blood pressure cuff. Norman’s MAP is reading low because his blood pressure cuff is:a) Too wideb) Too loosec) Below the level of his heartd) Has been placed at the base of his tail

9. What are the three most common potential side effects of chemo- therapy drugs?a) Gastrointestinal upset, hair loss, neurological signsb) Bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal upset, coughingc) Bone marrow suppression, hair loss, pupil constrictiond) Gastrointestinal upset, bone marrow suppression, hair loss

10. An 8­kilogram King Charles Cavalier is standing on the floor in front of you. You need to lift him. You should:a) Keep your feet shoulder­width apart, squat and bend only at the knees b) Keep your feet close together, squat, and bend only at the kneesc) Keep your feet shoulder­width apart, squat, and bend at both the hips and the kneesd) Follow any technique as long as you are not in any pain because the dog weighs less than 10 kilograms

Kathleen Dunbar has been working as a registered veterinary technician at Carnegy Animal Hospital in Halifax since 2008. She is also an instructor at the Centre for Health Studies’ veterinary hospital assistant program. In her spare time Kathleen and her husband co-parent seven cats.

This quiz and the answers are available for completion online for credit at www.k2publishing.ca under the “CE quizzes” menu.

By Kathleen Dunbar, BA, RVT

CVMA and CAAHTT join forces at annual CVMA ConventionThe Canadian Association of Animal Health Technologists and Technicians (CAAHTT) have teamed up with the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) to strengthen the ties between the veterinary professions.

Over 750 delegates from both groups met in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Lab rador from July 9­12 to exchange ideas and knowledge with a wide range of topics, including antimicrobial stewardship, emergency medicine, anesthesia, and pain management. Among the more than 40 speakers from Canada, the U.S., and overseas, and the 36 concurrent sessions, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk presented on treating cats in shock, and Dr. Jean Wallace presented survey results and insights on the contributing factors to stress and burnout in the veterinary profession, and

strategies for dealing with it. These were just two of the many timely topics.2013­2014 CVMA president Dr. Jim Berry, along with representatives from

Hill’s, IDEXX Laboratories, Scotiabank, and Zoetis, cut the ribbon to officially open the exhibit hall with over 70 exhibits.

The CAAHTT held its AGM in conjunction with the Convention, and high lights included the Affiliation Agreements signed with the provincial associations and CAAHTT’s commitment to promoting and developing RAHTs and RVTs across Can ada. In partnership with the CVMA, the CAAHTT created a Memorandum of Un derstanding to promote and strengthen One Voice, One Team in veterinary medicine.

FALL 20148

By Jenine Robertson, RAHT, MAHTA President

With the changing of the seasons MAHTA is still in the midst of change. 2014 marks the beginning of the transition for member registration over to the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association. While the details regarding registration are being worked out, MAHTA is

focusing on the Member Services portion of our association. We are hoping to bring new and exciting options to our membership such as a discount fitness program, an employee assistance program, new merchandise, updated CE opportunities, and much more. At this time, MAHTA has ceased action on a name change while we are focusing on Member Services.

This fall we will also be starting preparation for our Annual General Meeting, which will be held at the CenCan Conference in February 2015. As part of MAHTA’s 5­year strategic plan, our new and updated bylaws will be completed as of October 2014 and will be presented at the 2015 AGM. In continuing with the 5­year strategic plan, MAHTA will also be preparing a wage survey of RAHTs in Manitoba with plans to present our findings at the 2015 AGM.

In celebration of AHT week, several of our members are writing articles highlighting their careers and their specialization within the field. These articles will be shared with our entire membership via e-mail through-out the week.

Eastern Veterinary Technicians Association updateBy Joye Sears, RVT,EVTA President

Big things are happening on the East Coast! For a long time now the primary goal of the Eastern Veterinary Technician’s Association has been to enhance rec-ognition of the value of Vet Techs in Atlantic Canada through Title Protection for RVTs. We have made huge

strides in 2014, with legislation before the Nova Scotia government in which the EVTA partners with the Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association to protect the title of RVT. We are hopeful that this legislation will pass before our next membership year, starting June 2015. The New Brunswick Veterinary Medical Association has leapt into action on this issue, recently passing a similar by­law to provide Title Protection for RVTs in NB. These steps will mean big things for techs, as they will provide recognition and unity for our

industry in these provinces. The same discussions are taking place in PEI and Newfoundland and Labrador, so vets across Atlantic Canada are showing that they are eager to acknowledge and protect the role of their valuable RVTs.

We just held our AGM in September, at the NBVMA/EVTA Fall Con­ference. As always, the meeting and the conference were very well attended. The EVTA works to ensure that techs in Atlantic Canada have access to world class Continuing Education opportunities on a regular basis, and this conference was no exception.

We are excited to welcome Stephanie Hall, RVT to her new role as Newsletter Editor/Media Coordinator with the EVTA. Stephanie will be providing the country with great updates about the EVTA in the future!

If you would like more information about the EVTA and our activities, please contact me (Joye) at searsjl@eastlink.ca. or our Exec-utive Director, Bev, at bev@evta.ca.

Manitoba Animal Health Technologists Association update

Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists updateBy Nicole Wood, RVT,SAVT President

The Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Tech-nologists 30th Annual Conference is fast approaching (November 7­9). It will be held at the Radisson Hotel Saskatoon and the Western College of Veterinary Med-icine. The conference planning committee is work ing

hard putting the finishing touches on speakers and the banquet entertainment before this grand event. A reminder to all who want to attend, late registration fees apply to those who register after October 23, 2014. We encourage everyone to register early as Sunday wet labs fill up fast. We have such a phenomenal collection of inspirational and educational speakers lined up, and I hope to see technologists and technicians from across the country at this milestone celebration!

On Thursday, September 11th, 2014, I visited SIAST Kelsey Campus to welcome the first and second year veterinary technology students. I find it is a really good time to introduce myself and the association to the first year students, and to give the second years some more information on their profession and what is required to register once they graduate. It is also a really good opportunity to recruit some student members and encourage them to attend the conference. We look forward to seeing these new professionals at future SAVT events throughout their careers.

Our Canadian Association of Animal Health Technologists and Technicians (CAAHTT) directors, Carolyn Cartwright and Darlene Ford, represented the SAVT in the signing of the affiliation agreement and the Memorandum of Undertaking (MOU) with the CVMA at the CAAHTT AGM on July 12­13,

2014 in St. John’s, Newfoundland. They are also planning on attending the AAAHT AGM in Banff, Alberta, on October 25, 2014.

I am anxiously awaiting our conference celebration this year. What a milestone our 30th Anniversary is! So very excited to see all of the familiar faces I have grown acquainted with over the years. I encourage you all to register for the conference. It is a fantastic way to improve your skills, participate in exceptional hands-on training, network with companies and potential employees, and be exposed to the newest technologies and innovations. Continue to visit our website, www.savt.ca, to read the post-conference update, additional online CE, and see our brand new vet tech merchandise!

National Veterinary Technicians Week was held October 12­18th this year. I personally hung posters on my lab door at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine to ensure the vet students were aware it was NVTW! Thanks again for promoting your profession in your clinics! Be PROUD of your profession and the services you provide to your clients and patients.

Lastly, I want to encourage you all to consider applying for a Board of Director position at our AGM during the conference this November. We are always looking for keen new minds to help improve our provincial association! Personally, I have served on the Board for three years now and have enjoyed every minute of it! If you have any questions in regard to applying for a position, don’t hesitate to send me an email at president@savt.ca. I would be happy to help you.

FALL 2014 9

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association NewsBy Kristin McEvoy, CVMA Manager, Communications and Public Relations

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and the Canadian Association of Animal Health Technologists and Technicians (CAAHTT) have teamed up to strengthen the ties between veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians/technologists, and registered

animal health technicians/technologists. Overall, CVMA and CAAHTT will be focused on enhancing communication, advocacy, and continuing education opportunities for all members of the veterinary team.

Pet nutrition assessment videoCheck out CVMA’s pet nutrition assessment video, which helps veterinarians conduct pet nutrition assessments and discuss nutritional guidelines with

clients. Ottawa veterinarians Dr. Susan Little and Dr. Bernard Pukay created the video to demonstrate the proper steps to conduct a nutrition assessment in feline and canine patients. Visit CVMA’s YouTube Channel to view the video. Support for the video was provided by Hill’s Pet Nutrition Canada Inc., P & G Pet Care, and Nestle Purina.

Cat Healthy initiativeCVMA is pleased to support Cat Healthy (cathealthy.ca), an initiative creat ed by Canada’s veterinary feline specialists to help more cats receive the preventive healthcare they need to live longer, healthier lives. Cat Healthy’s website showcases a number of preventive healthcare protocols designed to pro-vide practical recommendations to raise the standard of care for cats all across Canada.

Considerations for the novice horse owner – the vet tech’s role By Jeannie Willems, LVT, RVT, BS

Owning a horse is a luxury and a privilege as well as a responsibility. Responsible horse ownership begins with education. As veterinary technicians (VTs), it is part of our job to help our clients, and to educate them before, during, and after owning a horse.

The first consideration is to determine whether the client can financially afford to own a horse. As my

father always said, it’s not buying the horse it’s the upkeep of the horse that’s expensive. The estimated cost of providing basic care for a horse ranges from $3000­$5000 USD annually (~$250­$425/month). This does not take into account emergencies or unforeseen costs. The basic costs must always be budgeted for as it is above and beyond what most people can easily afford.

Maintaining a healthy horse requires observation. Knowledge of the horse’s body and how it works are important aspects since keeping a horse healthy can minimize costs. Daily grooming helps reveal any problems or abnormalities, so advising clients how to scan the horse and make note of any changes in lumps/bumps is key. Lumps and bumps can be due to acute injuries, or a chronic condition that has been progressing. Body scoring can be used to determine the horse’s health.

The VT can educate the horse owner on the measurements used as baselines/guidelines for a healthy horse. Capillary Refill Time (CRT) and Bright/Alert/Responsive (BAR), as well as the attitude of the horse, are quick and easy observations. Knowing “normal” behaviour and the horse’s temperature, pulse, and respiration (TPR) are useful to have as baselines. Provide your clients with a diagram showing where and how to take the horse’s TPR. As well, fecal counts should be done twice a year, and de-worming should be done in accordance with results of the fecal count. De-wormer types should be rotated in accordance with the schedule to decrease resistance. Vaccines given to horses pertain to the region and the diseases that are prevalent to the area. EWVT, West Nile Virus, Rhino/Flu, and rabies are the most common diseases that should be vaccinated against. Botulism, E. coli, anthrax, EHV, sleeping sickness, strangles, and Potomac Horse Fever are other diseases that require a more risk-based vaccination protocol.

A horse’s dental health is important and can seriously impact its ability to chew food and stay nourished. An equine dental technician or veterinarian should perform regular exams and perform any necessary treatment.

As the majority of a horse’s weight is carried on its front end, the new owner will need to be educated on the importance of the horse’s hoof health. Making an appointment with a qualified farrier should be discussed.

Determining the horse’s nutritional requirements is an essential part of prop er horse care. Horses are herbivores and have a simple-stomach digestive tract, as well as hind-gut fermentation in the cecum. As such, horses need forage in their diets, which can be pasture and/or hay. There is a science to feeding horses and it begins with understanding the way horses utilize food.

Once the level of energy required is established, the mathematical equation for the exact amount of quality hay or pasture can be calculated. Horses can consume between 2­2.5% of their body weight in dry feed daily. This is a perfect opportunity for the VT to use his or her knowledge to help the novice horse owner determine the proper nutrition that is required for that horse.

Grain/pellets have their place in equine nutrition as long as they are used for additional requirements for the horse. This includes racing, showing or competing, daily use as a workhorse, and horses that have specific nutritional restrictions or require supplementation (e.g. certain diseases such as insulin resistance, bad teeth, founder or laminitis, heaves, etc.). Also, the previous seasons’ hay supply may necessitate the addition of concentrates to the horse’s diet to meet the horse’s basic nutritional requirements.

Horses need unlimited access to fresh, clean water, as they consume on average, 2 to 4 litres of water per 2 lbs. of dry matter intake. This does not account for hot, humid conditions in some climates, as well as after exercise.

They also require the addition of salt to their regular daily diet. Salt blocks offered as free choice to the horse are an easy and excellent way to ensure the horse is getting adequate salt. Controversy between trace mineral and white salt blocks continues, but as long as it is available to the horse at all times, it is a personal choice.

Horses in the wild spend 60­80 percent grazing so they are constantly on the move. They cover miles in search of food and water. In domestication, horses still need that daily stimulation to maintain their physical and mental health. This can be done as turn out, lunging, or being ridden, and the amount is determined on what sort of work the horse is required to do.

Determining a horse’s habitat is also an important consideration. For example, will it live at the owner’s home or at a boarding facility? Again, the VT can help the new horse owner make a list of these choices, and then decide based on what is best for the horse. The average board for one horse can range from $300­$700/month.

The VT can also help to prepare the horse owner for the unexpected by educating them on what is normal and abnormal horse behaviour. Emergency information and contacts should also be made available.

In summary, a VT can help guide a potential owner in finding an appropriate horse, and then follow-up by being available to answer questions and provide further guidance throughout their time together.

Jeannie attended Morrisville College and Lake Erie College, earning an AAS in Horse Husbandry and a BS in Equestrian Studies. She has successfully bred Thoroughbred racehorses for 15 years.

After working in a mixed practice veterinary hospital NY, Jeannie attended Medaille College and received her AS in Veterinary Technology. She served on the New York State Association of Veterinary Technicians Board and the American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians as Secretary, and is currently the President-Elect for the AAEVT.

FALL 201410

NOVEMBER 4WINNIPEG, MBCoaching For Successwww.mvma.ca

NOVEMBER 6EDMONTON, ABIs Your Practice Cat Healthy?easav@edmontonvetinfo.comwww.edmontonvetinfo.com

NOVEMBER 7-9SASKATOON, SKSaskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists 30th Anniversary Conferencesavt@savt.cawww.savt.ca

NOVEMBER 8-9RICHMOND, BCBC Veterinary Technologists Association Conferencewww.bcvta.com

NOVEMBER 12CONCORD, ONDebunking Pet Food Marketing Conceptsinfo@tavm.orgwww.tavm.org

NOVEMBER 14St. John’S nLNewfoundland Labrador Vet-erinary Medical Association and Eastern Veterinary Technicians Association Meetingbev@evta.cahttp://evta.ca

NOVEMBER 15GueLph, onAdvanced Nursing Part 2 for Emergency & Critical Care Techniciansanne.behnan@gmail.comqualityceinc.com

NOVEMBER 21KITCHENER, ONRehabilitationinfo@focusandflourish.comwww.focusandflourish.com

JANUARY 15-17SASKATOON, SKWestern Canadian Association of Bovine Practitioners Conferenceinfo@wcabp.comwww.wcabp.com

JANUARY 17-21orLando, FLNorth American Veterinary Community Conferenceinfo@navc.comwww.navc.com

JANUARY 29-31TORONTO, ONOntario Veterinary Medical Association Conferenceinfo@ovma.orgwww.ovma.org

February 26-28niaGara FaLLS, onOntario Association of Veterinary Technicians Annual Conferenceoavt@oavt.orgwww.oavt.org

Merial announces Canadian approval for NexGard™ (afoxolaner) for DogsMerial recently announced that Health Canada has approved NexGard™ for the treatment and control of flea and tick infestations in dogs. The soft, beef­flavoured chewable tablet begins killing fleas in just 30 minutes and is also approved to kill three species of ticks: American Dog Ticks, Lone Star Ticks, and the Blacklegged (deer) Tick1. The Blacklegged (deer) Tick can transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease in dogs and humans.

NexGard is an oral product for dogs therefore there is no risk of contact exposure to cats. It uses a new active ingredient, afoxolaner, to kill fleas fast before they can lay eggs, and provides lasting protection against ticks. Studies showed that NexGard was effective in treating infestations of fleas and ticks in dogs. According to the licensing studies, NexGard is highly palatable with dogs and is well tolerated when administered at the recommended treatment dose.1

NexGard is expected to be available in Canada later this year, and will be available to pet-owners by veterinarian prescription only. For more information visit www.merial.com.

1. NexGard Canadian product label.

WSAVA calls for quarantine not euthanasia for dogs exposed to EbolaThe World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), a global veterinary association, has called for the testing and quarantine of dogs exposed to the Ebola virus in countries not endemic for the disease, not automatic euthanasia. It has spoken out following the euthanasia on 8 October 2014 of a pet dog belonging to an infected woman in Spain on the government’s orders and against her wishes.

Professor Michael Day, Chairman of the WSAVA’s One Health Committee, added: “Zoonotic diseases, particularly those transmitted through pets, are concerning to the pet­owning public, but there have been no scientific reports indicating that Ebola virus has been isolated from or directly transmitted by dogs. One investigation has shown that dogs may develop antibody to Ebola virus consistent with exposure, but dogs do not develop any symptoms of the disease.

As the virus spreads into more developed regions, we are likely to see increasing concern and media interest as to the role of dogs in the transmission of disease and, as a profession, we must respond to pressure to euthanize pets as the exposure levels increase and fear escalates.” Full scientific evidence to support its views is available at www.wsava.org.

RVT title adopted by B.C. British Columbia Animal Health Technologists have officially changed from AHTs to RVTs. As of May 7th, 2014 their professional title is Registered Veterinary Technologist.

FarmTech Solutions announces Canadian debut of fully water resistant portable veterinary ultrasound - the Draminski iScan FarmTech Solutions, Inc. announces the debut of the most durable and robust portable ultrasound available to Canadian veterinarians. The new Draminski iScan offers large and mixed practice veterinarians a truly stand out device that provides unprecedented durability coupled with superb quality.

iScan is ideal for complete reproductive scanning and much more for bovine and equine practices. The water-resistant casing allows users to hose off the iScan after use, or even dunk the device in water.

The iScan casing is uniquely made of duraluminum, a material used in aerospace construction due to its extreme durability and lightweight nature. This makes it exceptionally strong and durable. The iScan can withstand the harshest farm conditions and can take being dropped, kicked, stepped on, water, dust, etc.

Weighing in at 5 lbs, iScan is a lightweight ultrasound scanner that provides a significant 10 full hours of portable working time before needing recharging. iScan provides veterinarians a wide and notable frequency range of 4­9 mHz for highly detailed examinations and very helpful features such as aging tables that auto-calculate, numerous handy pre-sets, calipers, grids, cineloop, and image-saving and transfer functions to make work fast, easy, and accurate. Draminski veterinarians have confirmed mare pregnancies as early as 12 days using the iScan.

For more information visit www.farmtechsolutions.com, or contact Karen Abbott at 1­800­672­9182.

Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. launches Semintra® for cats with chronic kidney disease A new treatment option for cats with chronic kidney disease has been launched in Canada by Boehringer Ingelheim. Semintra® is the first ever angiotensin receptor blocker to receive marketing authorization in veterinary medicine, and contains the active ingredient telmisartan. It is licensed for the reduction of proteinuria associated with chronic kidney disease in cats.

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* Verhaert, Wetter (2004), Kyllar, Witter (2005)

© Royal Canin SAS 2014. All Rights Reserved.

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