Vet Candy

Scientists from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) and Uppsala University in Sweden now understand why some gray horses turn completely white as they age, while others remain an eye-catching “dappled” gray color. 

As published in the journal Nature Communications, the deciding factor is the number of copies of a small DNA sequence within the gray coat gene carried by each horse; while “slow-graying” horses have a gene variant with two copies of the duplication, “fast-graying” horses — those that will eventually become white — have a gene variant with three copies.

On today’s show, we’re exploring the complex world of canine epilepsy, a neurological condition affecting many dogs—but how common is it, really? 🤔🐕 A recent review has highlighted gaps in our understanding of epilepsy prevalence, revealing that factors like geography, culture, and access to pet insurance may influence the diagnosis and management of this condition. With inconsistencies in how epilepsy is diagnosed between primary care and specialized settings, the true impact of this disease remains unclear. Tune in to discover what this means for pet owners and veterinarians alike, and why standardized practices are so crucial!

This week on Medical Mysteries, Dr. Jill Lopez takes on the challenging case of a horse with a persistent cough. Could it be a common respiratory issue, or something far more serious? Follow along as Dr. Lopez uncovers the clues and races to find the solution before it's too late.

Let's dive into a groundbreaking study that reveals a surprising secret weapon in wound care for our furry companions: medical-grade honey! 🐾🍯 Researchers have discovered that medical-grade honey, especially manuka honey, packs powerful antibacterial properties, making it significantly more effective against pet wound infections compared to non-medical-grade honey. This study tested different types of honey against common bacteria found in dog and cat wounds, showing promising results for faster, more effective healing. Could honey be the next big thing in veterinary wound care? Stay tuned as we explore this sweet discovery!

#veterinary #veterinarynews

In this captivating episode of Let's Be Honest, twin Australian vets Dr. Alison and Dr. Audrey Shen take us on a journey from their bustling brick-and-mortar clinic to a thriving mobile practice on the open road. Hear firsthand how these sisters went from fixed schedules to full freedom, embracing a life where every day is a new adventure—and a new patient. Their story is both inspiring and unconventional, filled with challenges, laughter, and plenty of surprises.

But would they trade it? Not for a second. Tune in to discover why life as a mobile vet has become the ultimate career move, giving them a new appreciation for both the profession and the world. This episode is packed with tips, fun stories, and a touch of Aussie humor that will leave you dreaming about hitting the road yourself!

On the next Medical Mysteries with Dr. Courtney, Dr. Courtney Campbell joins forces with Dr. Shannon Gregoire to investigate the puzzling case of a lethargic cat. With its energy drained and no clear answers, can Dr. Gregoire uncover what’s causing the feline’s sudden sluggishness before it’s too late?

While they're no longer hunted, koalas now face an ever-growing number of threats - from deforestation for agricultural and urban developments to the spread of the deadly koala Chlamydia disease, traffic strikes and dog attacks. In 2022, koalas were listed as Endangered in Qld, NSW and the ACT.

In this episode of Medical Mysteries with Dr. Courtney, Dr. Courtney Campbell teams up with veterinary surgeon Dr. Rebecca Web to solve the case of a “tippy-toed” cat. With an unusual gait and mysterious symptoms, this feline's condition has stumped everyone. Can Dr. Web uncover the cause behind the cat’s tiptoeing and get it back on solid ground?

Stethoscopes don’t work well on reptiles. Scales interfere with sound transmission. Scared tortoises and turtles hide behind their legs, covering their hearts.

Researchers in the College of Veterinary Medicine have discovered they can consistently measure reptiles’ pulse rate in an easy-to-reach spot on the back of the head, and that pulse rate corresponds to the heart rate in healthy reptiles. The technique requires an ultrasonic Doppler flow detector, a common instrument found in most veterinary clinics.

Deep in the dark woods of New Jersey lurks a creature that has terrified locals for centuries—the Jersey Devil! In this spooky season episode of Obsessed with the Palmers, our favorite vet-med couple digs into the eerie lore of this winged beast with cloven hooves, piercing eyes, and a blood-curdling scream. Where did the legend start, and could there be a scientific explanation? From rumored sightings to freaky animal theories, the Palmers explore the weird and wild story of this infamous cryptid. It’s a devilish mystery you won’t want to miss!

Obsessed with the Palmers follows a dynamic vet med couple with a passion for creatures of all kinds—both real and mythical! Blending their expertise in animal science with a dash of mystery, the Palmers dive deep into the legends, lore, and science behind cryptids and creepy creatures worldwide. Each episode explores spine-tingling tales and rare animal facts, uncovering how folklore and reality often intertwine in fascinating ways. Whether it’s Bigfoot’s anatomy, the elusive Chupacabra, or even the legends surrounding mythical beasts, the Palmers bring curiosity, fun, and a scientific twist to every tale!