Using a prospective, randomized, single-blinded clinical design, we enrolled dog owners (DOs) and their dogs presenting to a veterinary referral hospital in a two-phase trial to determine whether veterinarian-initiated counseling increases physical activity and leads to secondary health benefits for DOs and their dogs. In Phase I, self-reported health measures, height, and weight were assessed for DOs. Body condition scores (BCS) for their dogs were also determined. Owners of overweight and obese dogs (BCS > 6) were recruited for Phase II in which a baseline serum biochemical profile was obtained for DOs and dogs. Participants were randomly assigned to either a physical activity (PA) or standard care (SC) group. All DOs were provided a pedometer to determine their baseline daily step count. The PA group was counseled by a veterinarian using a standard scripted handout to encourage increased physical activity with their dogs. The veterinarian also reviewed common barriers to activity, encouraged increased levels of physical activity, and delivered a specific exercise prescription for the dog. The stated goal was for the DO to spend at least 30 minutes a day engaged in physical activity with their dog. All owners and dogs returned in three months, and biochemical and anthropometric measurements were taken again. Seventy-five DOs completed Phase I. At the completion of Phase I, 46 DOs enrolled in Phase II. Of these, 32 completed all required elements. For all participants with complete Phase I and Phase II data, there was a significant reduction in mean BCS (6.7 to 6.4; t (31) = 2.88, p = 0.007). BCS and weight decreased similarly in both groups. Glucose increased over time in the SC group but not in the PA group, yielding a significant mean group difference at followup (113 mg/dL vs. 103 mg/dL; p = 0.01). Based on our findings, both groups 325 Anthrozoös

Results suggested that HCS may have a heritable component in Shih Tzus, although the condition may also be identified in Shih Tzus without affected relatives. Clinical, clinicopathologic, ultrasonographic, and histologic abnormalities in affected Shih Tzus were similar to those previously reported for dogs of other breeds with HCS.

Background: Obesity is a parallel problem in canine and human populations. We describe health perceptions and levels of companion animal attachment in a cohort of dog owners.Methods: As part of a larger trial examining the impact of veterinary counseling on activity levels of dog owners and their pets, owners presenting to a veterinary referral center were asked to self-report perceived levels of health and attachment to their dog (Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale). Owner body mass index and the body conditioning score of the companion dog were also recorded.Results

Objective: To describe a unique case of pyometra with inguinal herniation of the left uterine horn and omentum. Case summary: A 7‐year‐old, 19 kg, intact female Beagle dog presented for surgical treatment of presumptive pyometra and biopsy of a caudal abdominal mass in the left inguinal mammary gland region. Ventral midline celiotomy was performed, and a distended, fluid‐filled uterus with passage of the distal aspect of the left uterine horn through the left vaginal process into the inguinal canal was identified. The patient recovered uneventfully following ovariohysterectomy and left inguinal herniorrhaphy. New or unique information provided: This is the first documented report of inguinal herniation of a uterine horn associated with a pyometra.

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