08/01/2026
Coming soon... Our February 2026 VNJ! 💻📚
Here are some articles that BVNA members can look forward to reading;
🩺🏥 "Suspected pancreatitis in a kinkajou (Potos flavus); A case study and nursing care analysis" - By Kirsten Buckland-Kerr
This case study reports on a 7 year old captive female kinkajou with a 2 day history of vomiting and inappetence, whose management was complicated by species specific behaviour and anatomy. Safe handling and stress reduction were prioritised, using sevoflurane induction in a modified secure chamber, followed by intubation and multiparameter monitoring with close attention to temperature, salivation and eye protection. Imaging was unremarkable, but bloods showed markedly elevated amylase compared with baseline, suggesting pancreatitis, and the patient received fluid therapy, antiemetics and assisted feeding. The case underlines the importance of safe restraint, species adapted anaesthesia and vigilant nursing to safeguard welfare in exotic patients.
🐶🐱 "The importance of fluid therapy in dogs and cats" - By Ben Witcomb
Fluid therapy is a vital supportive treatment for dogs and cats in surgery, medical care and emergencies, helping correct dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and low circulating volume. The article explains fluid physiology and reviews commonly used options: isotonic, hypotonic and hypertonic crystalloids, plus synthetic and natural colloids for rapid intravascular volume expansion. It stresses accurate calculation of maintenance needs, deficits and shock rates, and choosing intravenous, subcutaneous or intraosseous routes according to urgency and patient status. Regular reassessment of hydration and lab values allows ongoing adjustment, with effective therapy depending on close teamwork between vets and veterinary nurses.
