January 2024
Knowing what dogs like to watch could help
veterinarians assess their vision

Ever wonder what kind of TV shows your dog might choose to watch if they could work the remote control? New research from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) has some answers, but the study was more interested in solving a longstanding problem in veterinary medicine than turning canine companions into couch potatoes.

According to Freya Mowat, veterinary ophthalmologist and professor in the SVM’s department of surgical sciences, the goal of the study was to determine factors that influence a dogs’ interest in interacting with video content and to see if age or vision were related to this behavior. Ultimately, they hope to develop more sensitive ways for veterinarians to assess vision in dogs−something that has been sorely lacking in veterinary medicine. 
PET TIPS AND CLINICAL STUDIES
Protect Your Pets from Winter Hazards

Neither people nor pets like venturing into the subzero weather we've been experiencing across the Midwest this week, but there are things we should all keep in mind when we have no choice but to brave the elements of our Wisconsin winters.

According to Calico Schmidt, clinical instructor at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine, there are a number of precautions you can follow to help keep animals safe from some of the most common winter hazards, like antifreeze, deicing salt, and frostbite.
Seeking cats with kidney disease for clinical study

UW Veterinary Care is currently enrolling cats in a clinical study that could one day help improve the diagnosis and treatment of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in cats. AKI is a potentially reversible condition if caught early, but cats typically don't exhibit symptoms until later stages of disease.

The goal of this study is to determine whether certain proteins called Serum Amyloid A (SAA) are higher in cats with AKI/pyelonephritis and to see if SAA can be used as a biomarker to monitor the efficacy of antibiotic treatment.
Featured Service: Ophthalmology & Eye Care

As part of our wide breadth of expertise in specialty veterinary care, we proudly offer advanced ophthalmology services at UW Veterinary Care. Our experts treat ocular disorders in animals of all types, from dogs and cats to exotic species, horses and production animals. UWVC’s state-of-the-art diagnostic testing is the first step toward successfully treating patients. Our veterinary eye specialists are prepared to treat a wide range of ocular problems, including:

  • Canine cataracts
  • Tumors of the eye and surrounding structures
  • Entropion (inward folding of the eyelids)
  • Correction of other eyelid abnormalities
  • Retinal detachments
  • Surgical repair for deep corneal ulcers

We also provide certified eye examinations for breeders (CERF/OFA/EERF). After performing an eye examination, members of the UWVC Ophthalmology team will develop a complete treatment plan, discuss any pros and cons with you, and implement with your approval. The team will also arrange consultation with other UWVC specialists as needed.
Social Animals
Highlights from your social media mentions of UW Veterinary Care
and the UW School of Veterinary Medicine
We want to give a huge shout out and thanks to our amazing veterinary partners at UW Veterinary Care in Madison WI. We have been taking our very complex pet patients to UW for 16 years and they have saved so many lives.

Last week Lilly underwent surgery at UW, the first of any medical intervention she has needed in all of these years. Diagnosed with bladder cancer a little over three weeks ago, UW moved heaven and earth to get Lilly Rose into the Cardiology, Oncology and Surgery Services quickly! They coordinated all the facets of her complex care, seamlessly. We are so grateful! Lilly underwent surgery last Thursday to remove the portion of her bladder containing the tumor. She was released this past Sunday and true to beagle form…Lilly is feeling great!

Wiggly, happy Lilly is pictured here with her surgeons, Dr. Chloe Apelgren and Dr.Jamie Welker!