Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Screening – Genetic Testing

Thank you for your interest in an OFA Elbow/OFA Hip/PennHIP exam at Allegheny Veterinary Service. Our veterinarians support that the OFA and PennHIP exams offer valuable information regarding canine hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia for the future of your dog and/or your breeding program. Below is some information on the requirements of each exam and what to expect with the examination process. In addition, we have included information for various genetic testing based on breed.

PennHIP Exam

This assessment is highly regarded as the most accurate and is the current gold standard to predict the onset of canine hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis of the hip (coxofemoral) joint.

This test involves a series of x-rays used to measure laxity of the hip joints according to the distraction index (DI). The test procedure follows strict scientific protocol and has been peer-reviewed and well-researched. All measurements are based on precision calculations and objective observations. All veterinarians participating in the PennHIP program must be specially trained and certified to follow protocol and ensure data accuracy.

Minimum Age: Patients must be at least 16 weeks old to be evaluated.

Estrus/Heat: Estrus or heat cycle does not affect PennHip measurements. Therefore, PennHip evaluation may be conducted at any time during the cycle.

Pregnancy and Lactation: Hormones associated with pregnancy and lactation may affect PennHIP measurements. Therefore, PennHIP evaluation should be delayed at least 8 weeks post lactation or 16 weeks post whelping.

Results

• Results are generally available within 5-7 days.
• You will receive a written report from PennHIP with your pet’s results and breed comparisons.

Learn more about PennHIP Testing

OFA Hip and/or Elbow

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is a voluntary program established to evaluate images and identify those showing no evidence of dysplasia or other orthopedic problems. Images are reviewed by qualified veterinary radiologists.

Minimum Age: To qualify for an OFA hip number, dogs must be 24 months of age, to the day, or older at the time of imaging.

• Dogs 12-24 months of age are eligible for a preliminary consultation if the owner initials the authorization block to release all results (including abnormal results) when the application is initially submitted.

Estrus/Heat: Females should not be imaged within 3-4 weeks before and after heat. Hormones present during these periods may adversely affect the results of the evaluation.

Pregnancy/Lactation: Females should not be imaged within 3-4 weeks after weaning a litter of pups. Hormones present during this period may adversely affect the results of the evaluation.

Results

• Results are generally available in 2-3 weeks.
• You will receive a written report from OFA that includes grading with prognosis.

Learn more about OFA

Other Genetic Testing

There are several other genetic tests and health screenings available. Specific recommendations will depend on the breed. We are happy to discuss questions and further recommendations for genetic testing at the time of the exam. The following websites serve as excellent resources for further testing:

AKC Dog Breeds

OFA CHIC (Canine Health Information Center)

UCDavis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory

Multidrug Sensitivity (MDR1)

What to Expect

• To ensure adequate relaxation for the procedure and the best images, sedation is REQUIRED.
• This procedure is scheduled during our designated surgical procedure times (not during appointment hours). Your pet will be scheduled for a hospital day admission appointment on the morning of the procedure.
• The entire procedure, including sedation, image acquisition, and recovery will take approximately 2-3 hours. Your pet will generally be awake and ready to return home by the end of the day.
• Images are acquired using our high-definition digital x-ray system. Once acquired, images are submitted to the appropriate organization for review. In rare cases, the patient may need to return for additional images. Should this occur, the cost of additional sedation and repeated imaging is included in the original fees. Evaluation results of the images are generally available in two to three weeks.
• Copies of images may be provided to you on the day of the procedure via a USB or email link.
• Please contact us for a complete estimate of the entire procedure.

How to Prepare

• Schedule an appointment. Indicate whether you request OFA Elbows, OFA Hip, Penn HIP, or other genetic testing.
• Do not feed your pet after 9 PM on the night before the procedure. Access to water is allowed until the morning of the procedure.
• The dog must be permanently identified via a microchip or tattoo. An ISO-compliant microchip may be implanted on the day of the procedure. Previously implanted microchips will be scanned and confirmed by our staff.
• A copy of the registration certificate must be provided.
• Complete the expedited registration form below.

Expedited Registration

Complete the PennHIP/OFA/Genetic Testing Form to help expedite registration.

Contact Allegheny Veterinary Service

Our hospital is located at 1605 Parsons Road, Old US 219 North of Elkins in Gilman, WV. For directions, click here. We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at (304) 636-8363.

Thank you for your interest in assisted breeding at Allegheny Equine Veterinary Service. Below is some information to help you plan for breeding your mare.

Breeding with Shipped/Cooled Semen

AEVS offers a breeding package for fresh or shipped/cooled semen of $600 per mare per heat cycle. All services listed below must be performed at our haul-in clinic to qualify for the contract rate. Services included in this package:

• Physical exams
• Vaginal exams
• Rectal palpations
• Reproductive ultrasounds
• Artificial insemination
• Administration of an ovulatory agent to ensure proper timing of ovulation to correspond with expected insemination.
• Administration of post-breeding ecbolics to ensure uterine clearance.

These services are provided for the above-stated fee for one heat cycle. We will continue to ultrasound the mare’s reproductive system until ovulation has occurred or it is determined another insemination is needed. If the mare is determined pregnant, this package will include additional pregnancy checks at 25-30 days and 45-50 days of pregnancy. Any follow-up/recheck ultrasounds recommended beyond 50 days of pregnancy are performed for an additional cost.

How to Prepare

• Schedule a Pre-Breeding/Wellness Exam: We will examine the mare and discuss potential complications of breeding and her specific breeding plan. Please note: Proof of vaccination from a licensed veterinarian is required prior to arrival at AEVS. Please disclose any medical conditions that could affect the management of the mare before acceptance into this breeding program. If vaccination history from a licensed veterinarian cannot be provided, the mare will be vaccinated prior to breeding at an additional expense of the owner.

• Genetic Testing: An American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) 5-panel genetic test is strongly recommended PRIOR to choosing the sire. This can be performed via a hair test. The owner should contact AQHA directly for a testing kit. Results may take several weeks to obtain.

• Choose a Sire: It is your responsibility to choose a sire and complete all contracts and payment of stud fees prior to breeding. A copy of the contract must be provided for our records so that we may be familiar with any special requests or requirements of the contract (i.e., shipping limitations, breeding technique requirements, diagnostic requirements). Our office will handle all communications and arrangements for collection order and shipment directly with the stallion manager.

Early Season Breeding

If you desire to breed early in the season, manipulation of the environmental lighting will aid in bringing the mare in heat earlier in the season.

Artificial Lighting: Mares should be put under lights approximately 60-70 days prior to the desired breeding time. Therefore, in most cases lighting will need to be managed from late November or early December to stimulate follicular development and ovulation by early February. Timers should be placed on the lights to provide 16 hours of daylight and 8 hours of darkness using a minimum of a 200-watt incandescent light bulb in a 12ft x 12ft stall (resulting in 10-12 foot-candles of light).

Equilume Light: Alternatively, an Equilume light may be placed on the mare. This lighting device targets the wavelength required to influence the mare and is worn as a halter during turnout.

Reserve Your Spot!

To reserve your spot, complete the contract below and submit a stall deposit. Stalls are limited and will book quickly by April.

Monitor Your Mare for Estrus

Contact our office to schedule the arrival of your mare based on one of the options listed below:

Natural Cycle: You may monitor your mare for signs of estrus and present her to our hospital when she shows the first signs of heat or according to the calendar dates of expected heat. Note that many mares cycle irregularly in early Spring.

Timed Cycle: In many cases, we will choose to manipulate the cycle with hormones to more readily control the breeding and coordinate breeding with semen shipping. Please contact our office at least one week after your mare has been in heat to schedule medications prior to her arrival for breeding.

Costs

Please review our Mare Breeding Contract below for a comprehensive description of fees.

Sedation, medications, professional treatments, farrier fees, preventative care, and boarding are not included in the contract fee.

Mare Breeding Contract

Please complete the following form to finalize planning: Mare Breeding Contract

Contact Allegheny Equine Veterinary Service

Our hospital is located at 1605 Parsons Road, Old US 219 North of Elkins in Gilman, WV. For directions, click here. Ample parking and a pull-through driveway are available for large trailers. We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at (304) 636-8363.

Chemotherapy Plan for Lymphoma Treatment in Canines & Felines

Dogs treated with chemotherapy live significantly longer than untreated dogs, and chemotherapy is generally well tolerated in most dogs. Multi-agent protocols, such as the protocol listed below are the most successful, with a complete remission rate of > 80% and remission durations of 6-11 months. Mean survival time with this protocol is 1 year (CHOP), with 20-25% living up to two years. Mean survival time with steroids only is 4 to 6 weeks.

University of Wisconsin-Madison CHOP-19 Protocol

This chemotherapy protocol is considered the first-choice treatment of most oncologists for most types of lymphoma. Drugs included in this protocol include vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, prednisone, and L-asparaginase. Modifications are made to the published protocols for individual patients, depending on preexisting conditions, response to treatment, and other factors.

To begin treatment: Blood samples will be run and will serve as a baseline to compare treatment response and monitor adverse side effects in the coming weeks. In addition, we may recommend MDR1 testing for certain breeds of dogs. MDR1 is a genetic mutation well known in border collies and several other breeds that makes them much more sensitive to the chemotherapy drugs used in this protocol.

Procedure: This protocol includes a cocktail of chemotherapy medications including intravenous and oral treatments. Each treatment will commence with a check of blood counts. This will help determine whether the chemotherapy is showing adverse side effects of bone marrow suppression, anemia and suppression of the immune system. Generally, if the white cell count falls below 4,000, treatment will be postponed for one week and rechecked.

Schedule: Generally, this program begins with weekly treatments that continue for 9 weeks. Some weeks may be postponed due to unacceptable bloodwork. This allows the body more time to recover from the chemotherapy treatment before starting another treatment. The chemotherapy appointments may be scheduled early in the morning to expedite treatment. Doxorubicin treatments will require admission for several hours to complete treatment.

Chemotherapy Program Schedule

Week 1	Vincristine given intravenously* Prednisone by mouth every 24 hours
Week 2	Cyclophosphamide given by mouth. Furosemide given by mouth. Reduce dose of Prednisone given by mouth every 24 hours
Week 3	Vincristine given intravenously* Reduce dose of Prednisone given by mouth every 24 hours
Week 4	Doxorubicin given intravenously as a slow infusion** Reduce dose of Prednisone given by mouth every 24 hours for 7 days.
Week 5	Discontinue Prednisone
Week 6	Vincristine given intravenously*
Week 7	Cyclophosphamide given by mouth. Furosemide given by mouth.
Week 8	Vincristine given intravenously*
Week 9	Doxorubicin given intravenously as a slow infusion**
Week 11	Vincristine given intravenously*
Week 12	Cyclophosphamide given by mouth. Furosemide given by mouth.
Week 13	Vincristine given intravenously*
Week 14	Doxorubicin given intravenously as a slow infusion**
Week 16	Vincristine given intravenously*
Week 17	Cyclophosphamide given by mouth. Furosemide given by mouth.
Week 18	Vincristine given intravenously*
Week 19	Doxorubicin given intravenously as a slow infusion**

*VinCRIStine treatment will require an intravenous catheter and is given quickly as a bolus.
**Doxorubicin treatment will require an intravenous catheter and a slow infusion over approximately 60 minutes.

Adverse Effects:
• Vomiting & Nausea are the primary side effects noted with all three treatment types.
• Bloody Urine (Hemorrhagic cystitis) is common after treatment with doxorubicin.
• Injection site reactions can occur and be severe at the catheter site. Please monitor catheter sites for pain, inflammation and development of wounds.
• Dark or tarry stool

Please notify us if any of these side effects occur at any time during the treatment. Increased thirst and increased urination can be expected during the first few weeks of therapy.

Management at Home

1. Wear gloves when handling animal waste (vomit, urine or feces) particularly for the first 5 days after treatment. Most chemotherapy drugs are broken down into inactive metabolites that are then excreted in urine and feces, but there likely will still be a small amount of intact drug in both urine and feces. The area should be cleaned with soap and water. Dilute bleach solution may be used if it is suitable to the surface. Many of the drug residues break down quickly in sunlight, so waste outside is less of a risk.

2. Any soiled bedding should be washed separately with regular detergent. A second wash cycle with regular bedding can then be performed to more thoroughly remove contaminants. Any urine/feces/vomit on the floor should be cleaned with soap and water. Dilute bleach is OK if it can be used on the affected surface.

3. Avoid being licked after oral dosing. If the pet takes pills easily, there should be minimal chemo in the oral cavity. If the pill does not go down easily and begins to dissolve in the mouth, there likely will be small amounts of drug in the saliva. If there are children in the house, it is prudent to recommend that the pill be given at night after they go to bed, or in the morning after they leave for school. Exceptions to these rules exist (e.g., after-bedtime administration might be inappropriate with cyclophosphamide, as it would be better to provide the dog with free access to water and plenty of opportunity to urinate after administration of this drug to reduce the risk of sterile hemorrhagic cystitis).

4. If there are multiple pets in the household, it is not routinely recommended that they be isolated. The other pets likely will be exposed to minimal amounts of drug residue when using shared litter boxes and other areas. The risk of complications from this is minimal (after all, we are giving the full dose to the affected pet. In reality, the risk to owners is very low as well. But with the above guidelines we essentially can make that risk almost zero). Looking to balance quality of life, most owners agree that the decreased quality of life from separating the pets is not acceptable. However, if non-treated pets in a household are coprophagic, they should be prevented from ingesting feces, as this might lead to inadvertent exposure to chemotherapeutic agents or metabolites.

Diet & Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils) have been shown to have significant anti-inflammatory effects and may have some effect to slow growth and slow spread of certain cancers. A 2019 study (New England Journal of Medicine) did not find any benefit in human cancer patients. For dog and cats, the best source of omega 3 fatty acids is cold water fish oils. We recommend Welactin or Nordic Naturals brand. Supplementation in cancer patients is generally 1 extra-strength capsule (500-600 mg of DHA and EPA) per 10-20 lbs of body weight.

Medications

Several anti-nausea medications will be prescribed and may be given as a preventative prior to treatment and as needed after treatment. In addition, we may prescribe anti-anxiety medications.

Thank you for your interest in assisted breeding at Allegheny Veterinary Services. We offer complete canine reproductive services at our animal hospital, ranging from pre-breeding exams through high-risk or planned cesarean sections. Our veterinarians support responsible breeding and therefore will promote genetic testing, and other health screenings such as OFA and PennHip to aid in breeding decisions and help reduce the incidence of unwanted heritable conditions.

What You Need to Know

The availability of frozen and chilled semen makes it possible for breeders to choose a stud dog from anywhere in the world. Our recommendation on the method of insemination will depend on several factors, including but not limited to: the type and quality of semen used, the age and reproductive history of the bitch, and risk factors for the bitch.

Breeding Options

Natural Breeding

Artificial Insemination (AI): with fresh, chilled, or frozen semen. AI techniques include vaginal insemination, transcervical insemination, and surgical implant.

Vaginal insemination: Performed when the veterinarian places the sperm in the vaginal vault, right at the rim of the cervix. This is most similar to natural breeding. This is performed as an outpatient procedure and does not require sedation.

Surgical AI: Patient is placed under general anesthesia, a small incision is made in the abdominal wall, the uterine horns are elevated, and the semen is injected into the horns. Patients recover quickly and seldom experience complications following this procedure, but do need to be kept quiet for 10-14 days.

Allegheny Veterinary Services will make all efforts for a successful breeding and favorable outcome of pregnancy. However, pregnancy cannot be guaranteed.

How to Prepare:

Schedule a Pre-Breeding/Wellness Exam: Our veterinarians will conduct a thorough exam on the bitch to determine her health status prior to breeding and discuss ongoing or potential health problems. Good preventative care is essential to a healthy pregnancy. Vaccinations, deworming and other preventative care may be conducted at this exam or recommended prior to moving forward with breeding plans.

Genetic Testing: The following website references offer information for breed-specific genetic testing. Results of genetic testing may affect the sire choice.

AKC Dog Breeds

OFA CHIC (Canine Health Information Center)

UCDavis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory

Multidrug Sensitivity (MDR1)

OFA & PennHIP: More information can be found at the OFA Website and PennHIP website.

Choose a Sire: It is your responsibility to choose a sire and complete all contract, stud fee, and shipping arrangements with the sire owner/manager. A copy of the contract must be provided for our records so that we may be familiar with any special requests or requirements of the contract (i.e.: shipping limitations, breeding technique requirements, diagnostic requirements).

Monitor your bitch for estrus (swelling of the vulva, vaginal bleeding).

What to Expect

• Present the bitch in estrus.: The bitch should be presented within 5-7 days from the start of her cycle (or 5-7 days from the first day that you note vaginal bleeding) to examine her and acquire baseline information. If there is any doubt or your bitch has a history of cycling quickly, she should be presented sooner.
• Progesterone Testing: Repeated progesterone testing will help determine when to order semen and subsequently breed. This will require short visits to draw blood samples. Retesting is determined by the results acquired from each sample. The following values are used as a guide.
• Ordering Collection and Semen Shipment: This should be arranged by you and the stud owner/manager. Semen should be shipped directly to our office via FedEx or UPS to 1605 Parsons Road, Elkins, WV 26241. The tracking number should be emailed to our office at info@elkinsvet.com.
• Breeding: Our veterinarian will receive the semen, check the sample, and breed the bitch by a previously determined method. Vaginal insemination is performed as an outpatient procedure. Surgical insemination will require day admission and may require an overnight stay. An estimated whelping date will be calculated based on 63 days post ovulation.
• Ultrasound: A pregnancy ultrasound will be scheduled for 21-28 days post-breeding. This will allow us to confirm pregnancy, estimate the number of pups, assess fetal health, and rule-out pyometra or other complications.
• Xray: An abdominal x-ray will be scheduled for approximately 50-55 days of gestation. This will provide a final count of puppies and a final exam prior to whelping. The potential for a planned C-section will be discussed at this appointment.
• Planned C-section: In some instances, such as a high-risk pregnancy, a planned C-section may be recommended. These are planned at approximately 63 days from the date of ovulation during regular office hours with a full staff.
• Post Whelping Exam: A post whelping exam will be scheduled at 2-3 days of the age of the pups. Tail docks and dewclaw removal will be done at this time.

Costs

• Payment is due at the time services are performed by AVS.
• Stud fees, semen collection and shipping fees are the responsibility of the client or bitch owner and should be paid prior to planned breeding to avoid delays.

General Estimates

Please note that all of the estimates provided below are general and exact charges will differ with each patient.

Pre-Breeding Exam & Preventative Care: $175-300
Breeding consultation with physical exam, vaccinations, fecal exam, 4Dx testing, one dose of monthly preventative

Assisted Breeding

Assisted Natural Service

Vaginal Artificial Insemination: $ 250 – 700
Price will vary depending on number of progesterone tests and vaginal cytologies performed. Saturday breedings will be assessed additional after-hours fees.

Surgical Artificial Insemination: $ 700 – 1200
Price will vary depending on number of progesterone tests and vaginal cytologies performed. Saturday breedings will be assessed additional after-hours fees.

Pregnancy Exam:
Ultrasound for pregnancy confirmation: $100
Xray for puppy count: $200

C-section: $800 minimum for planned up to $2500 for emergency.
Please note that additional fees will apply if performed outside of regular business hours on an emergency basis. A complete detailed estimate can be provided at each appointment.

Canine Breeding Contract

Please complete the following form to finalize planning: Canine Breeding Contract

Contact Allegheny Veterinary Service

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us at info@elkinsvet.com. Our hospital is located at 1605 Parsons Road, Old US 219 North of Elkins in Gilman, WV. For directions, click here. Ample parking and a pull-through driveway are available for large trailers. We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at (304) 636-8363.

Once we receive this completed form, a technician will contact you to finalize scheduling.

Thank you for your interest in artificial insemination at Allegheny Veterinary Services. Below is some information to help you plan for breeding your cow or your herd.

What to Expect

• Artificial insemination is an excellent opportunity to improve herd genetics. However, it will not overcome poor management, poor nutrition, poor preventative care, and poor health. We recommend a pre-breeding vaccination protocol in any animals that we artificially inseminate.
• Conception rates with Artificial insemination: 50%-70% of a herd will conceive with single timed insemination, similar to conception rates with a bull over a single cycle. In many herds, a “clean-up” bull is still used to breed any remaining open cows within the following 2-3 cycles resulting in an overall conception goal of 95%.
• Synchronization Process – Successful artificial insemination requires the preparation of the herd. Both heifers and cows will require 3 trips through the chute over a 9-10 day period. The first two trips through the chute are for preparatory treatments and may be performed by AVS or the owner, depending on preference. The final trip through the chute is for artificial insemination which will be performed by our veterinarian. We are happy to perform all of the required preparatory treatments. If you prefer, we may also set you up with clear and specific directions for medication administration to help reduce fees associated with multiple farm calls. Please note, if we have not visited your farm within the prior year, a farm call is required by law prior to prescribing any medications.

Breeding with Frozen Semen

AVS offers a breeding package with frozen-thawed semen for $85 per heifer/cow per cycle (current 1/2021). This includes synchronization medications and artificial insemination. This DOES NOT INCLUDE other herd professional fees, farm calls, preventative healthcare (vaccinations/dewormers), or other medications and supplies. This does not include the cost of semen. The total cost per cow will differ depending on the semen cost and the amount of travel required. The breeding package fee ($85) must be paid at the time of scheduling. Additional fees (farm calls, herd professional services, etc) will be paid at the time of service.

How to prepare:

• Schedule a Pre-Breeding/Herd Management Exam: If this all seems overwhelming, we recommend a site visit to your herd so that we can discuss your specific needs, production goals, and herd management.
• Choose a Sire: It is your responsibility to choose a sire and complete all contracts and payment of stud fees prior to breeding.
• Special Order Semen: Our hospital receives regular deliveries from Premier Select Sires. Semen may be ordered via this service and temporarily stored (at your own risk) at our hospital prior to breeding. Although our semen tank is checked regularly, we cannot guarantee the quality and viability of semen stored at our facility. Payment for semen orders should be made directly to Premier Select Sires. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that a sire has been selected and semen will be available for the timed breeding. For semen ordering, please contact Jake Detterline at jdetterline@premierselect.com or by calling (814) 386-0451. The beef semen catalog can be viewed HERE. Mr. Detterline is a great resource to help you choose an appropriate and economical sire.

In-Stock Semen

A limited number of straws (doses) of calving ease heifer selected Angus semen is stored at our hospital for purchase. This semen offers a high likelihood of heifer in the resulting pregnancy. However, this cannot be guaranteed. Please call for the current price.

Working Facilities

At this time, we are unable to offer haul-in to our hospital for this service. It is our plan to offer this in the near future. Please ensure that your working facility is in good order to reduce time during treatment and avoid extra herd hourly fees.

A rectal ultrasound is recommended at 25-30 days post artificial insemination to confirm pregnancy. This ultrasound is not included in the breeding package and additional fees will apply.

Schedule Bovine Artificial Insemination

To begin scheduling for bovine artificial insemination, please fill out the following form: Bovine Breeding Information

Once we receive this completed form, a technician will contact you to finalize scheduling.

Our hospital is located at 1605 Parsons Road, Old US 219 North of Elkins in Gilman, WV. For directions, click here. Ample parking and a pull-through driveway are available for large trailers. We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at (304) 636-8363.

Thank you for entrusting us with the healthcare of your equine companion or livestock. We are honored that you have chosen us! Our staff is dedicated to our patients and our profession. Whether a personal companion or way of living, we know that animals are an integral part of your life. We recognize the human-animal bond, as well as the importance of superior patient care and comfort, and wish to nurture all of these for the best outcome.

It is our mission to provide excellent veterinary care to every patient with compassion, dedication, and personalized service. We are committed to practicing evidence-based medicine. We embrace client education regarding the latest advancements in our field and we strive to utilize these concepts in our daily practice. We strive to help our patients achieve the best possible outcome and live long, happy lives.

Online Patient Portal

Please take a moment to log in to your client portal and make sure that your contact information and pet information is correct. The portal can be used to book an appointment, request prescription refills, access records and bill payment.

Medical History

Please email prior veterinary and vaccination records to info@elkinsvet.com or upload them to the patient portal prior to your appointment.

Home Delivery

Medications can be drop-shipped directly to you! Requests for prescription refills can be made via the Online Patient Portal or by contacting our office.

Carside Service

Call ahead to request your prescription refill. We are happy to deliver medications right to your car! You can even prepay via telephone to expedite your stop.

Meet Our Staff

We would like to take a moment to introduce you to our special services and our veterinary staff.

Tracy Walker, DVM
DABVP Equine Practice

From: Elkins, WV

Education:
BS, West Virginia University
DVM, University of Georgia
Internship, University of Georgia
Diplomate, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners

Dr. Walker is very active in many organizations that give back to the community and the veterinary profession. Locally, she serves on the Randolph County Park and Recreation Board, Randolph County 4-H Leaders, and the Randolph County Regional Riding Club. At the state level, Dr. Walker has served as a board member for the West Virginia Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Walker was also honored to become a member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee in 2012. Dr. Walker is also a member of AQHA, NCHA and a certified veterinary judge for the American Endurance Ride Conference. In her spare time, Dr. Walker enjoys spending time riding any of her eight quarter horses and showing her cutting horse.

Jessica Harvey, DVM

From: Buckhannon, WV

Education:
BS, West Virginia Wesleyan College
DVM, St. George’s University
Internship, Iowa State University

Dr. Harvey grew up raising beef cattle. Through 4-H and FFA, she showed and sold market hogs, market lambs, market goats, market rabbits, market steers, and feeder calves. Dr. Harvey continues to stay very active in 4-H and FFA events as a mentor. In her spare time, Dr. Harvey loves to spend time with her animals whether it be dogs, cats, or cows. Dr. Harvey’s interests include oncology, orthopedic surgery, assisted reproduction techniques in multiple species, and ruminant herd health.

View Our Complete List of Patient Services

Contact Allegheny Equine Veterinary Service

Our hospital is located at 1605 Parsons Road, Old US 219 North of Elkins in Gilman, WV. For directions, click here. We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at (304)636-7886.

Sincerely,
Dr. Walker, Dr. Harvey and the Team at Allegheny Equine!

As the owner, it is ultimately your responsibility to provide a healthy environment so that your lamb may flourish and grow. A keen understanding of good husbandry practices, basic infectious disease prevention, diseases and conditions specific to your lamb and your farm are critical to the success of your project. This document is only meant to be a starting point for your farm health plan. You should also establish a relationship with a veterinarian to assist with a protocol specific to your farm.

FDA Restrictions

Off-Label use of antibiotics, dewormers and other treatments is strictly prohibited in food animals. These rules are set in place to protect the consumer and our food supply. Be sure to check all medication labels and comply with labeled use, dose and withdrawal times. Very few treatments are FDA-approved for sheep. You are directly liable for inappropriate or illegal use of non-approved medications in these animals. Off-label use of some medications may be permitted under direct supervision of a veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you with proper use of medications in your sheep.

Vaccinations

Limited vaccines are available for sheep. Ideally animals should be vaccinated by the breeder and prior to purchase or moving. It is critical that you discuss specific risks and needs with your veterinarian to customize a vaccination protocol for your farm.

At a minimum, all goats should be vaccinated with:

CD&T Vaccine: This vaccine includes protection for overeating disease (Clostridium perfringens Type C & D) and tetanus (Clostridium tetani). Lambs should receive an initial dose at 1-2 months of age. Booster one month later. Booster adults annually.

Rabies Vaccine – Vaccination against rabies virus is recommended in project animals due to the potential zoonotic risk of becoming exposed or infected. Rabies vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian.

Grazing & Pasture Management for Parasite Control

Identify the culprits

• Keep simple records that include identification, body condition score and FAMACHA score.
• Approximately 10% of the animals carry 90% of the parasites in any given herd.
• These animals become a “typhoid Mary” that will continue to incubate and spread large numbers of worms to the remainder of the herd.
• Animals that are repeatedly sick from parasites should be removed from the herd.

Grazing With Other Species
Sheep do not share parasites with horses or cows. Cross grazing or rotating pastures with cows and horses is beneficial and will help dilute the parasite load on the pasture.

Sheep will share parasites with sheep, llamas and alpacas. Therefore, cross-grazing or rotating pastures with these species should be avoided.

Grazing Time
Delay grazing until the afternoon. Haemonchus contortus (barber’s pole worm) larvae hatch during warm summer nights and follow the dew drops to the tips of the grass. Sheep that graze early in the morning on the damp grass will ingest more parasite larvae. By midday, when the grass dries, the parasite larvae will recede to the ground. Therefore, delay grazing until later in the day when the grass has dried.

Stocking Rate
Pastures that are overgrazed will harbor more parasites. Avoid overgrazing. Reducing the overall herd size or increasing the available pasture may be necessary.

Rotate Pasture
Pastures should be rested for at least 6 months. Shorter intervals will result in worsening parasites.

Deworming

Determine if Sheep Should Be Dewormed
-Use the FAMACHA score card to determine whether sheep should be dewormed.
-Deworm all that score 4 or 5.
-Scores should be checked every 2 weeks during hot, humid summer weather.

Fecal Exams
Fecal exams are recommended to identify whether treatment for coccidia is needed.

Fecal Egg Reduction Counts
-Help determine whether parasite resistance is a problem on your farm.
-Requires a fecal exam prior to deworming and a repeat fecal exam at a specified day after deworming.

Deworming
Weigh animals if possible to ensure correct dosing. Use the updated dosages provided. Animals should be held off of feed for at least 12 hours prior to dosing with an oral deworming product.

Other Common Problems in Sheep

Our veterinarians frequently diagnose the following diseases in sheep:

Contagious Ecthyma (Sore Mouth, Orf)
This disease is caused by a virus. It is spread by contact with infected sheep or other infected surfaces. Humans may also become infected with this disease. Sheep with this disease will have large crusting scabs and sores on their lips and nose. Some ewes may also have them on their teats. Sheep showing signs of this disease should not be brought on to your farm or taken to a show or sale.

Coccidiosis
This disease is caused by an intestinal parasite that is not treated with typical dewormers. Affected animals will have poor growth and diarrhea. Severe cases result in death. Young animals from 2-6 months of age are most susceptible to this disease. We recommend feeding a medicated ration containing a coccidiostat to susceptible animals. In some cases, a stronger prescription treatment may be required to treat coccidia.

Urinary Calculi
Urinary calculi are extremely common in pet lambs and project lambs due to feeding concentrate diets. Concentrate diets will cause changes in urine pH which promotes formation of urinary stones. Many lambs will pass tones through the urethra without further trouble. However, males are extremely prone to urinary blockage due to urinary calculi or stones. This can result in kidney failure and death. We discourage feeding any concentrate feeds for this reason. However, if you are feeding a concentrate, ensure that it contains ammonium chloride. Monitor your males lambs for normal urine passage. If you note straining to urinate you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Our veterinarians have treated sheep with several techniques including amputation of the urethral process, perineal urethrostomy and tube cystotomy. The best treatment for urinary stones is prevention!

MDR1 Gene Mutation: The MDR1 gene encodes P-glycoprotein, a drug transport pump that plays an important role in limiting drug absorption and distribution (particularly to the brain), as well as enhancing the excretion of many drugs used in dogs. Some dogs, particularly herding breeds, have a mutation in the MDR1 gene, leaving them defective in their ability to limit drug absorption and distribution. These dogs also have delayed excretion of drugs that are normally transported by P-glycoprotein, making them susceptible to severe drug toxicity.

Drugs Affected by the MDR1 Gene Mutation: Acepromazine, Apomorphine, Butorphanol, Doramectin, Doxorubicin, Erythromycin, Ivermectin, Loperamide, Milbemycin, Moxidectin, Paclitaxel, Selamectin, Vinblastine, Vincristine, Vinorelbine

Breeds Affected by the MDR1 Mutation

Breed	Approximate Frequency
Australian Shepherd	50%
Australian Shepherd, Mini	50%
Border Collie	< 5%
Collie	70%
English Shepherd	15%
German Shepherd	10%
Herding Breed Cross	10%
Long-haired Whippet	65%
McNab	30%
Mixed Breed	5%
Old English Sheepdog	5%
Shetland Sheepdog	15%
Silken Windhound	30%

As the owner, it is ultimately your responsibility to provide a healthy environment so that your goat may flourish and grow. A keen understanding of good husbandry practices, basic infectious disease prevention, diseases and conditions specific to your goat and your farm are critical to the success of your project. This document is only meant to be a starting point for your farm health plan. You should also establish a relationship with a veterinarian to assist with a protocol specific to your farm.

FDA Restrictions

Off-Label use of antibiotics, dewormers and other treatments is strictly prohibited in food animals. These rules are set in place to protect the consumer and our food supply. Be sure to check all medication labels and comply with labeled use, dose and withdrawal times. Very few treatments are FDA approved for goats. You are directly liable for inappropriate or illegal use of non-approved medications in these animals. Off-label use of some medications may be permitted under direct supervision of a veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you with proper use of medications in your goat.

Vaccinations

Limited vaccines are available for sheep and goats. Ideally, animals should be vaccinated by the breeder and prior to purchase or moving. It is critical that you discuss specific risks and needs with your veterinarian to customize a vaccination protocol for your farm.

At a minimum, all goats should be vaccinated with:

CD&T Vaccine: This vaccine includes protection for overeating disease (Clostridium perfringens Type C & D) and tetanus (Clostridium tetani). Kids should receive an initial dose at 1-2 months of age. Booster one month later. Booster adults annually.

Rabies Vaccine: Vaccination against rabies virus is recommended in project animals due to the potential zoonotic risk of becoming exposed or infected. Rabies vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian.

Parasite Management

Parasitism is the number one herd health problem in goats. Resistance of parasites to dewormers is also extremely common.

Identify the culprits

• Keep simple records that include identification, body condition score and FAMACHA score.
• Approximately 10% of the animals carry 90% of the parasites in any given herd.
• These animals become a “typhoid Mary” that will continue to incubate and spread large numbers of worms to the remainder of the herd.
• Animals that are repeatedly sick from parasites should be removed from the herd.

Grazing & Pasture Management for Parasite Control

Grazing With Other Species
Goats do not share parasites with horses or cows. Cross grazing or rotating pastures with cows and horses is beneficial and will help dilute the parasite load on the pasture.

Goats will share parasites with sheep, llamas and alpacas. Therefore, cross-grazing or rotating pastures with these species should be avoided.

Grazing Time
Delay grazing until the afternoon. Haemonchus contortus (barber’s pole worm) larvae hatch during warm summer nights and follow the dew drops to the tips of the grass. Goats that graze early in the morning on the damp grass will ingest more parasite larvae. By midday, when the grass dries, the parasite larvae will recede to the ground. Therefore, delay grazing until later in the day when the grass has dried.

Where to Graze
Graze brush, avoid lush pasture. Haemonchus larvae thrive in the lush green pasture. Therefore, in the hot summer months, goats should graze brushy areas.

Stocking Rate
Pastures that are overgrazed will harbor more parasites. Avoid overgrazing. Reducing the overall herd size or increasing the available pasture may be necessary.

Rotate Pasture
Pastures should be rested for at least 6 months. Shorter intervals will result in worsening parasites.

Deworming

Determine if Goat Should Be Dewormed
-Use the FAMACHA score card to determine whether goats should be dewormed.
-Deworm all that score 4 or 5.
-Scores should be checked every 2 weeks during hot, humid summer weather.

Fecal Exams
Fecal exams are recommended to identify whether treatment for coccidia is needed.

Fecal Egg Reduction Counts
-Help determine whether parasite resistance is a problem on your farm.
-Requires a fecal exam prior to deworming and a repeat fecal exam at a specified day after deworming.

Deworming
Weigh animals if possible to ensure correct dosing. Use the updated dosages provided. Animals should be held off of feed for at least 12 hours prior to dosing with an oral deworming product.

Copper Boluses
Copper has been shown to reduce parasite levels in the animal. Boluses should be given once a year. Copper levels should be monitored as toxic levels may occur with long term and repeated usage.

Other Common Problems in Goats

Our veterinarians frequently diagnose the following diseases in goats:

Pediculosis (Lice)
There are two types of lice commonly found on goats: chewing lice and blood sucking lice. Both will cause poor growth. However, each type of lice requires a different treatment. Chewing lice may be treated with topical delousing dusts. Sucking lice require a systemic medication.

Coccidiosis
This disease is caused by an intestinal parasite that is not treated with typical dewormers. Affected animals will have poor growth and diarrhea. Severe cases result in death. Young animals from 2-6 months of age are most susceptible to this disease. We recommend feeding a medicated ration containing a coccidiostat to susceptible animals. In some cases, a stronger prescription treatment may be required to treat coccidia.

Urinary Calculi
Urinary calculi are extremely common in pet goats and project goats due to feeding concentrate diets. Concentrate diets will cause changes in urine pH which promotes formation of urinary stones. Many goats will pass stones through the urethra without further trouble. However, males are extremely prone to urinary blockage due to urinary calculi or stones. This can result in kidney failure and death. We discourage feeding any concentrate feeds for this reason. However, if you are feeding a concentrate, ensure that it contains ammonium chloride. Monitor your males goats for normal urine passage. If you note straining to urinate you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Our veterinarians have treated goats with several techniques including amputation of the urethral process, perineal urethrostomy and tube cystotomy. The best treatment for urinary stones is prevention!

Do you suspect that your cat has food allergy? Pets, like people, can be allergic to certain types of foods. We commonly diagnose this during annual wellness examinations. Food allergy can be tricky to diagnose. It often requires several months to manage symptoms and get a final diagnosis.

What Are the Signs of Food Allergies in Cats?

Food allergy in cats presents mostly commonly as miliary dermatitis or small crusting scabs on the neck and body. Many cats will also have a history of frequent hairballs.

Common Signs:

Red, hot, or irritated skin
Chronic or recurrent skin infections
Chronic or recurrent ear infections
“Stinky” skin
Hair loss

Less Common Signs:

Sensitive stomach
Vomiting
Soft stool or diarrhea (intermittent)
Infection between the toes

What Foods Commonly Cause Allergy in Cats?

Beef and chicken are the most common sources of food allergy in cats. Beef, chicken, beef by-products, and chicken by-products are high-quality sources of protein commonly used in cat foods. By-products may include bone meal and fats from both beef and chickens.

Many commercial pet food companies advertise corn and grains as causes of food allergy. However, research overwhelmingly does not support this claim.

How is Food Allergy Diagnosed?

There is no single test that is specific to diagnose food allergy. A thorough history, including diet and treats, and physical examination are vital to this diagnosis. Often, food allergy is suspected or diagnosed with this alone. Other skin tests such as cytology and culture may be conducted to rule out other causes. Fleas, mange, and bacterial or fungal infections may be present as well. Blood work may be performed to rule out other causes, particularly when symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting are present. However, none of these tests specifically identify food allergy. To definitively diagnose food allergy, we must complete a dietary elimination trial.

How Do We Complete a Dietary Elimination Trial?

Eliminate ALL beef and chicken in the diet.
Choose a new diet that does not contain beef or chicken. This includes treats, table scraps, flavored toys, rawhides, supplements and vitamins. Some heartworm preventative prescription medications are flavored and may need changed as well. We are happy to discuss alternative medication sources and brands for food allergy patients.

Eliminating beef and chicken can be tricky.
This requires close inspection of each food label. Many labels advertise “turkey” or “fish” but still contain beef by-product or chicken meal. Ingredients that do not indicate source, such as “animal fats” or “bone meal” are usually from beef and chicken sources and must be avoided, too.

“Grain free” diets are not recommended – and not necessary.
Since food allergy is most commonly caused by beef and chicken, these are the target proteins eliminate.

Choose a diet that the pet has never had before.
Choose a diet that is affordable and easy to find. This does not necessarily need to be a prescription diet. These ingredient-specific diets are generally more expensive as they guarantee exclusive protein sources such as fish or lamb.

Complete a trial period with the new diet.
Feed the new diet for minimum of 12-16 weeks. During this time, you should note decreased itchiness and improvement in the clinical signs. Note that if your pet is inadvertently fed something with beef or chicken during this trial period, the trial must start over. At the end of the trial period, your pet should be re-evaluated for response to treatment. Occasionally, several food trials are required to identify the allergy culprit and manage the allergy.

How Is Food Allergy Treated?

Most importantly, food allergy is treated by identifying the allergen and eliminating it from the diet. Some pets can suffer relapses of clinical signs when the smallest amount is consumed. This is similar to a person with peanut allergy. Only a small amount is needed to trigger the allergy. Once an appropriate diet has been determined, the patient should remain exclusively on that diet. It is possible the patient may do well on the new diet for several years and later develop an additional allergy. In these cases, we recommend repeating the elimination food trial with a new protein or a prescription hydrolyzed diet.

What if We Can’t Find a Diet That Improves Signs?

Occasionally, pets do not improve, or do not adequately improve, with ingredient-specific diets. These pets may require a prescription diet or additional therapy to control allergy symptoms.

• Prescription Hydrolyzed Protein Diets: These diets are relatively new. Hill’s Science Diet Z/D Ultra, Purina HA, and Royal Canin Duck and Pea or Royal Canin HP are all acceptable diets. Your pet may have a preference for palatability. An elimination diet should be repeated with a hydrolyzed protein diet. If the diet helps resolve allergy signs, it should be fed indefinitely.

• Investigate Other Allergies: It is very common for pets that suffer from food allergy to also have concurrent seasonal, flea or environmental allergy. In these patients, we recommend additional blood or skin testing. Dust mite and pollen allergies are common. Desensitization therapy is recommended in these patients.

• Flea & Tick Treatments: We recommend year-round flea and tick preventative in all of our patients. This is especially important in patients with allergy.

• Symptomatic Treatment: Additional therapies are available for treatment of symptoms such as itch that are not completely controlled by diet and desensitization. This includes:
• Zyrtec (Cetirizine): This is an over-the-counter allergy medication that is safe for administration to your cat. Do NOT use Zyrtec-D. Please ask about specific dosing for your cat.

Can I Feed My Pet Treats?

As part of the elimination trial, pets cannot be fed treats. Once the trial is over, and an appropriate diet has been determined, the veterinarian may recommend specific foods that comply with the special diet. One food that can be utilized for administering medications is marshmallows.