Tom Donnelly writes on developments in the US veterinary industry. While big businesses such as Banfield Pet Hospital and VCA (Veterinary Centers of America) — the two largest owners of veterinary hospitals in the world, both owned by Mars. Inc. — grow, a group of practitioners who value their autonomy […]
Abstracts: Epileptiform activity during inert gas euthanasia of mice
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the most commonly used euthanasia agents for mice, yet it is highly aversive and nociceptive. Inert gases are a possible alternative, however there are qualitative reports of seizures resulting from exposure. Here we evaluate epileptiform activity caused by inert gases (N2, He, Ar and […]
Abstracts: Euthanasia of cattle: practical considerations and application
Acceptable methods for the euthanasia of cattle include overdose of an anaesthetic, gunshot and captive bolt. The use of anaesthetics for euthanasia is costly and complicates carcass disposal. These issues can be avoided by use of a physical method such as gunshot or captive bolt; however, each requires that certain […]
Salty & sweet: a life spent helping out crocs
Every veterinarian signs up for lifetime learning, but those undertaking wildlife work must be particularly committed. Annabelle Olsson has made a career juggling full time work and study, and in the process, has refined crocodile treatment. Olsson graduated from the University of Sydney in 1985. She worked for a few […]
$1 million raised for devil research
In March the Save the Tasmanian Devil Appeal announced the winners in its latest round of grants and scholarships that will contribute towards research designed to combat the fatal facial tumour disease that has ravaged the species in the wild since the mid-1990s. More than $375,000 has been awarded this […]