Journal of the South African Veterinary Association
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Midazolam hydrochloride administered intramuscularly at a dosage of 0.4 mg/kg induced sedation and sternal recumbency in goats. Increasing the dosage to 1 mg/kg resulted in rapid onset of ataxia followed by lateral recumbency, and loss of consciousness. ⋯ The combination of midazolam (0.4 mg/kg) and ketamine hydrochloride (4 mg/kg) increased heart and respiration rate significantly (p < 0.05). A light plane of surgical anaesthesia suitable for endotracheal intubation was induced, which lasted for a period of 16-39 min.
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The management of pain in patients with burn wounds is complex and problematic. Burn-wound pain is severe, inconsistent and underestimated. Patients experience severe pain, especially during procedures, until wound healing has occurred. ⋯ Opioids alone are seldom sufficient for pain control. The multi-modality approach includes the use of opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic and alternative drugs. Ketamine has been found to be a useful agent for analgesia in burn-wound patients; a dose of 10 mg/kg qid per os was found to be an effective adjunct to pain therapy.
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Veterinarians, biologists and administrators attended a workshop 'Veterinary science and wildlife utilisation for the benefit of community development' which was held during March 1995 as part of the Veterinary Science Research Programme of the Foundation for Research Development. The workshop was the first step in the establishment of a veterinary wildlife research forum which aims to integrate veterinary research with that of other disciplines in addressing issues that have an impact on wildlife. ⋯ Seven areas were identified in which veterinary research was needed: the promotion of the free flow of products and animals; extensive husbandry; intensive husbandry; pharmacology and toxicology; public health; ethical issues; forensic and diagnostic techniques. A steering committee was elected to coordinate veterinary wildlife research; establish relevant data bases; to facilitate cooperation between researchers; and to organise regular contact through annual workshops.
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Specific treatment of canine babesiosis consists of antibabesial drugs and, in severely anaemic animals, blood transfusion. Supportive therapy is also required, particularly in animals with complicated disease. Strategies for treatment of uncomplicated and complicated babesiosis are discussed. ⋯ Drug therapy and management of specific babesial complications are discussed. The rationale for supportive drugs commonly used in uncomplicated babesiosis, including lipotropic agents, haematinics and glucocorticoids, is examined. This review is designed to propose therapeutic guidelines and to stimulate interest in problematic aspects of supportive therapy for canine babesiosis.