Laurel Highland Veterinary Clinic

Just wanted to post in response to the recent news of two horses testing positive for Equine Herpes Virus Myeloencephalopathy in Snyder County. We in the veterinary community are hoping that these cases will be an isolated incident. The barn where the cases occurred is under quarantine and all of the other horses at the property are being monitored closely for signs of disease. However, this is a good opportunity to learn a little more about the signs of Equine Herpes Vir...us 1 (EHV1) and the best ways to prevent its spread. Equine Herpes Virus 1 is very common in the equine population. In fact, almost all horses are infected with this virus at some point during their lifetime. The most common presentation of this virus is respiratory signs and fever. However, it can also sometimes cause abortion in pregnant mares and, less commonly, neurologic disease. There is a vaccine for EHV1. However, it is not recognized to be effective against the neurologic presentation. EHV1 myeloencephalopathy typically starts with a fever and neurologic signs develop a few days later. As a result, it’s very important to contact your veterinarian immediately at the first sign of fever or any neurologic symptoms (incoordination that can progress to the inability to stand, lower leg swelling, the inability to urinate or pass manure, urine dribbling and reduced tail tone). The best way to prevent spread of Equine Herpes Virus is good Biosecurity. The virus is mainly spread by direct horse to horse contact via the respiratory tract through nasal secretions. However, it can also be spread indirectly through objects/people contaminated with the virus. As a result, it is important to be vigilant when your horse is going to come in contact with other horses. Do not allow your horse to have nose to nose contact with other horses at shows and events. Avoid sharing buckets, grooming equipment, and tack or disinfect these borrowed articles before using them and before returning them. Wash your hands after handling unfamiliar horses or use hand sanitizers. Do not dunk the tips of shared hoses in water buckets without disinfecting them... Unfortunately, not even the very best Biosecurity will prevent every case of Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy. Like many other Herpes viruses, this virus has the ability to be carried by horses and occasionally reappear in times of stress. As a result, we sometimes see cases in closed herds or herds where horses have not traveled for some time. However, using good Biosecurity practices and working with veterinarians towards prompt diagnosis of cases is the best way to prevent the virus from spreading from horse to horse and shut down outbreaks before they start.

Just wanted to share some photos of one of our recent cases. Josie is a 9 year old Springer Spaniel who was hit by a car about 3 weeks ago. She had a mandibular fracture that was repaired by Dr. Earley using a combination of inter-dental wiring and an intra-oral splint. Josie was at the clinic last Thursday for a recheck and she is doing wonderfully. Her fracture is healing well and we expect her to make a full recovery.

We have a new website! We will be redirecting the web address from the old website in the near future but, in the meantime, you can visit the new site at the link below.

MISSING BORDER COLLIE!!!! Last seen at the auto auction near Salona. Her name is Bella and she is very skiddish. Please help us find her. She has tags on her collar if found please call 5703678675

I wanted to share this video on how to remove a leg-hold trap. We have unfortunately seen two dogs caught in coyote traps in recent months and this is a good step by step on how to free a trapped pet. If this should happen to your pet, remember to examine not only their leg but also their mouth after freeing them from the trap. A trapped dog will instinctually try to free their own leg by chewing on the trap and can severely fracture their teeth in the process... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31It7xZSDgA

Dr. Earley's daughters Lauren and Janelle are selling pumpkins with their friends, Ethan and Evan. This wagon is at the bottom of the driveway at the clinic if anyone is interested in buying some pumpkins

These two dogs are looking for a home. They were boarding when their owner passed away. Alex is a 4 year old yellow lab and Brandy is a 7 year old chocolate lab (checking on whether they are spayed/neutered). They have been together for years and they are looking for a home where they can stay together if possible. Both are sweet dogs. Please post or call the clinic (570)-326-1134 if interested and we can get you in touch with the woman who is currently caring for them.

Lost Dog: 11 year old brown and white Jack Russell Terrier lost in the area of Mall Rd in Muncy on Monday morning (6/10). Bailey is very shy and may not come to strangers. If anyone has seen this dog or has any information, please call the veterinary clinic phone number at 570-326-1134

Here are some pictures of Colbie's crowns: (left side)

Dr. Dotzel's own dog, Colbie, a 2 year old mixed breed fractured two of her upper premolars chewing on a deer antler. One of the teeth required a root canal and crowns were placed on both teeth to protect them from further damage.

An exciting new addition to our line up of speakers at our March 23rd Open House to be held at Fox View Farm: Dr. Earley and Dr. Dotzel speaking about Equine Dentistry Check him out at www.laurelhighland.com

Here is a picture of Gunnar's Crowns