If you love pets, Volunteer for this FREE Event.

If You Pets, Register now!

 This event is for kids, curated by pet lovers and guaranteed to be a great time. Scan the code, registered now. Join us for this life changing event.    

Join us for the Walk for the Animals- Miami- October 4th

 

We Hope You Join Us This Saturday!!

This Saturday, we’re proud to lace up our sneakers and join the Humane Society of Greater Miami’s Walk for the Animals—and we’d love for you to be part of it!

At VCA, our values go beyond the walls of the hospital. We believe in community, compassion, and connection—the same principles that guide how we care for pets and the people who love them. Supporting the Humane Society of Greater Miami is one more way we live those values, giving back to the families and pets who make our community stronger.

Bring your friends, your pets, and your energy, and come walk with us! Together, we can celebrate the bond between people and animals while supporting an incredible cause.

Meet Dr. Diez!!

Meet Dr. Adrienne Newball Diez

Staff Veterinarian DVM

Member of Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Adrienne Newball Diez, a Puerto Rican native, knew at a very young age that her love and respect for animals would lead her to become "an animal doctor". Raised by a single mother in a home that values honesty, empathy, perseverance, responsibility and humility, she credits the support of her family as the key to reaching her goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Her passion for veterinary medicine solidified during a hands on experience with farm animals while earning her bachelor's degree in biology at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus. She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts and finalized her goal with a clinical year at Oklahoma State University.

With a strong interest in ophthalmology, dermatology and oncology, her long-term hope is to further her training through the pursuit of a residency. While at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital Dr. Diez remains focused on building connections with our pet community and providing exceptional care to her patients.

When not in her white coat, Dr. Diez enjoys traveling, reading sci-fi fantasy novels and spending time with her family and three spoiled fur siblings.

Education: Ross University, 2024, DVM

Meet Dr. Regenbaum!!

Meet Dr. Tayla Regenbaum
Staff Veterinarian DVM


Member of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Born and raised in sunny South Florida, Tayla Regenbaum was surrounded by a variety of pets during her upbringing and developed a deep passion for animals that drove her passion to become a veterinarian. After earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, she went on to complete her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Louisiana State University. Dr. Regenbaum now joins VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital, eager to gain experience and ultimately pursue a residency in veterinary neurology and neurosurgery.

Perfectly suited for a South Florida lifestyle, in her free time, Dr. Regenbaum can be found soaking up the sun at the beach, boating, or doing anything outdoors like hiking, golfing, or playing tennis. She also loves to cook, to travel the world, and to spend time with family. Dr. Regenbaum is also an advocate for conservation medicine and environmental sustainability. As she strives to integrate sustainable practices into her personal and professional life, we are excited to benefit from her innovation.

Education: Louisiana State University 2024, DVM

Meet Dr. Ramirez

 

Kevin Ramirez

Staff VeterinarianDVM

Member of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Kevin Ramirez was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. He obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University, after completing his clinical year at the University of Florida. With a specialized focus in Emergency Medicine and Soft Tissue Surgery, Dr. Ramirez is dedicated to providing exceptional care to every patient he encounters.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Dr. Ramirez prioritizes clear communication with clients, fostering a deeper connection and understanding throughout their pet's treatment journey. He values diversity and aims to ensure that every client feels heard and supported.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Ramirez is an avid adventurer. Whether he is exploring the depths of the ocean through scuba diving, traversing picturesque hiking trails or enjoying the simple pleasures of soaking up the sun on our sandy beaches, he is always seeking a new adventure.

With his rich cultural background and unwavering commitment to veterinary medicine, Dr. Ramirez brings a unique perspective and top-tier care to his practice, ensuring the well-being of every animal under his care.

Education: Ross University, 2023, DVM

Meet Dr. Alvarado

 Paloma Alvarado

Staff VeterinarianDVM

Member of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Paloma Alvarado is a native of Southern California. Originally, from the vibrant community of Orange County, she began her academic journey by earning a bachelor's degree in Zoology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. There, she developed a strong interest in the natural world and animal sciences and driven by this passion she pursued her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Ross University. Completing her clinical year at our esteemed University of Florida, she has found a happy home on the east coast, and joins us with a diverse skill set and a solid foundation in veterinary practice.

Outside of the office, Dr. Alvarado shows a particular love for cooking and discovering new cuisines, often sharing her culinary adventures through food reviews. Additionally, she is a self-proclaimed comic book nerd and enjoys immersing herself in the world of comic books and sci-fi culture by attending conventions as a dedicated Star Trek fan.

Dr. Alvarado's multifaceted interests and unwavering dedication to veterinary medicine, embodies a holistic approach to life and she is excited to continue her journey with our South Florida pet community.

Education: Ross University, 2023, DVM

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital Hosts Free Eye Exams Event for Service Animals

 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital (VCAHAH) in collaboration with Animal Eye Guys (AEG) of South Florida is proud to announce a one-day Free Eye Exams Event for Service Animals. This event, scheduled for Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, aims to provide valuable eye care services to qualified working dogs in South Florida.

As part of the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program, VCAHAH and AEG will offer free eye exams to service animals, including BSO K9 Patrol Officers, Humane Society of Broward County Therapy Animals, Memorial Regional Hospital, Broward County Court House Canines, and more. These exams will be conducted by qualified veterinarians specializing in ophthalmology.

WHO/WHAT: 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and Animal Eye Guys of South Florida to host Free Eye Exams Event for Service Animals.

WHEN: 

Sunday, May 19, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.

WHERE: 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital
2864 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, FL 33020
954.920.3556

HOW:  Early registration is key to providing these exams.  

This event is part of the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program, which has been providing free eye exams for service animals for 15 years. The program is conducted by 250 board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists from across the United States and Canada, including Puerto Rico.

 To qualify, qualified service animals must register online April 1-30th at https://www.acvoeyeexam.org/. Once registered, call 754-732-1792 to schedule an appointment.  

Who is eligible? Any active working animal that has been certified by a formal training program or organization or are currently enrolled in a formal training program. The certifying organization could be national, regional, or local in nature.  

Examples of active working animals are guide dogs, handicapped assistance animals, detection dogs, therapy animals, emotional support animals, and search and rescue dogs. Pre-Registration is required 

 When are the exams? Exams are offered throughout the month of May and during this dedicated one-day event on May 21st at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital. 

Pre-Registration is required. 

 How to schedule an exam? Register online- April 1- 30th at www.ACVOeyeexam.org   

Then call 754-732-1792 to set an appointment.   

 "We are thrilled to be part of the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program and to provide free eye exams to our local service animals," said Dr. James Herrington, Medical Director at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital. "This event not only ensures the health and well-being of these dedicated animals but also celebrates their invaluable contributions to our community."

Media representatives are encouraged to attend this event to capture stories and photos of our local service animal community.

About VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital: 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital is a leading veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for pets. With a dedicated team of veterinarians and support staff, VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership and providing exceptional veterinary care.

About Animal Eye Guys of South Florida: 

Animal Eye Guys of South Florida is a specialized veterinary ophthalmology practice dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions in animals. Led by experienced veterinary ophthalmologists, Animal Eye Guys of South Florida offers advanced eye care services for pes, including service animals.

Did you know? Genetic Testing can help your pet better fight cancer!

Did you know...
DNA Genetic Testing is used to help pets with cancer!

Let’s delve into DNA genetic analysis! What exactly is it?

Genetic testing, also referred to as DNA testing, involves the use of technology or DNA sequencing to identify abnormal changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. These changes, termed mutations or variants, often contribute to the formation and progression of cancer. DNA genetic testing is routinely used in human medicine and is anticipated to become a standard in veterinary oncology.

How can DNA genetic testing help my pet with cancer?
When DNA mutations or variants are identified through genetic testing, chemotherapy drugs that specifically target the identified mutations can be recommended as treatment for your pet’s cancer. Although DNA genetic testing is not perfect and may not always yield results, it can often help you and your veterinary oncologist make informed treatment decisions and can provide additional insights into prognosis for your pet. This precision allows veterinary oncologists to use precise and targeted chemotherapy to treat cancer, which decreases the risk of chemotherapy side effects.

DNA genetic testing can be especially helpful in challenging cases in which treatment options are limited. Ultimately, our goal is to extend your pet’s survival time past what is expected with conventional chemotherapy. By specifically targeting the mutations identified in your pet’s cancer, many times, targeted chemotherapy and conventional chemotherapy can be safely combined.

What samples are necessary for DNA genetic analysis?
Samples required for DNA genetic testing are typically obtained non-invasively. Depending on the specific test, blood, fine needle aspirates, or biopsy samples are necessary.

Is DNA genetic testing available for both dogs and cats?
Unfortunately, DNA genetic testing is exclusively available for dogs. However, there is hope that it will soon become accessible for cats.

My dog has been diagnosed with cancer. Is DNA genetic testing the next step?
Maybe! Not all cancers are treated equally, and chemotherapy is not always the chosen course of action. Sometimes, surgery alone might suffice for treating your pet’s cancer.

It is the goal of our Oncology Service is to help you explore the best treatment options for your pet and ensure treatment is focused on improving their quality of life. Learn more about our VCA Pet CancerCare Center and how our experts are here to care for your pet.

Dr. Irene Vazquez is a gifted and dedicated veterinarian who leads our Onolcogy department with a primary focus on improving quality of life for every pet that is diagnosed with cancer.

To schedule an appointment and to learn more about Dr. Vazquez, visit our website and watch this video.

Watch Video   

Advanced Cancer Care for the World's Most
Important Pet: Yours

At VCA, it is our goal to help treat your pet’s cancer, giving you and your pet more quality time together. At our VCA Pet CancerCare Centers, our oncology teams design individualized treatment plans for each patient using the most advanced and effective treatments available—much like those used in human medicine.

Learn about the VCA Pet CancerCare difference and watch the stories of pets we've helped after a cancer diagnosis.

Meet Roxy!

Safety Tips SHARE!

Sometimes it is easy to forget the little things that can be risks to our pets. This is an excellent reminder for the holiday season. As we enjoy our treats let keep our sweet fur babies safe. 

 

When You Asked, We Delivered.

Whoop, our pharmacy did it again!

When you needed a better way to reach our pharmacy- they created a direct access email address that connects you right to their team-------> vcahollywoodpharmacy@vca.com

When you needed a faster, more seamless way to refill your pet's medications- they created our QR code to simply Scan and Go!------> your pet's meds on in their queue!

We are very excited to continue to offer tools to help our humans better care for their pets.

There is more.....
Want one more way to stay
up-to-date on your pet's care?

Download our myVCA App and have your veterinary care right on your phone. Learn more and download the app now!

Or text us and we will send you a link that takes you right to your myVCA App page.

Blister packaging is SECURE CLEAR & CONVENIENT

When we were asked for a more convenient way for our clients to manage their pet's medications- our pharmacy created a system that ensures more accurate tracking of medications administered by 

1. reduces errors at home
2. eliminates the hassle of opening traditional medication vial
3. makes the time to re-order, easy to see

We now offer blister packaging. 

Our blister packaging involves securely packaging individual tablets and capsules in clearly labeled compartments within a specially designed card providing an even more convenient solution for your medication needs. This service is available upon request and is particularly beneficial for clients who face challenges in opening medication vials or maintaining a consistent medication schedule.

We are very excited to continue to offer tools to help our humans better care for their pets.

There is more.....
Want one more way to stay
up-to-date on your pet's care?

Download our myVCA App and have your veterinary care right on your phone. Learn more and download the app now!

Or text us and we will send you a link that takes you right to your myVCA App page.

Making Specialty Pet Care Accessible.

 

Our specialists are making even more time available to care for pets.

The veterinary industry has seen its share of strained this year as general practitioners and emergency care facilities see a high volumes of urgent care cases on top of their typical case loads.

Specialty medicine has seen this same influx as well which is why our innovative team at VCA Hollywood created a wait-list tool to ensure our specialty patients recieved access to available appointment as soon as possible. Now, our oncology service has added more consultation times to make oncology care even more accessible to pets in need.


The goal of our Pet Cancer Care team is to ensure pets enjoy the very best quality of life. With the support and collaboration of the entire VCA Hollywood doctors and staff, they also have the best team possible to care for pet.

Learn more about Dr. Vazquez, DAVIM (Oncology) and the PetCancer Care Team 

Stay up-to-day on all of the great success stories we have had the privilege to share!

 MEET THE TEAM!

This year, we welcome four amazing veterinarians that not only have a tremendous passion for pet care, they each bring a unique focus to our practice that compliments our team.

Learn more about Dr. Crystal Ware, Dr. Alexandra Lovirnic, Dr. Corey Young and Dr. Veronica Alamo on our website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see the softest side of patient care. (that is all of the puppies, kitties and snuggles we can get.)  

VCA Hollywood's Hotshots- Meet Michelle!

VCA Hollywood's Hotshots- Meet Michelle!

VCA Hollywood has a loads of hotshots!  We love to highlight our team whenever possible.

This month's special highlight is Michelle. 

Michelle has been with VCA since 2017 but with VCA Hollywood just 9 months and we are all so grateful she chose us!

Michelle joins us as a part of our Pharmacy Team who's location at the (literal) center of our practice though really mirrors their role in our ability to provide exceptional patient care.   Our pharmacy provides care for all of our client Whether GP or Specialty, whether on preventative or chronic medication they serve our in and outpatients even filling all of the medications for our hospitalized patients- not to mention our online pharmacy. 

It is a lot and Michelle has made the team whole. 

Get to know more about Michelle:

Background: Native Floridian who (Miami Gardens) but spent the last 15 years in CA.  

1. Cat or dog person?  

I love cats & small dogs especially, but have affection for most animals in general. I currently have 3 Shepherds and 5 cats.   

2. What is your favorite comfort media (book, show, movie, music, or anything else)? 

Video games! Especially ones that encourage crafting or are open-world. (Currently playing “Subnautica” and “Tears of the Kingdom”.

3. What is one thing you’re learning now or learned recently? 

“Taking care of yourself” is a lot harder than it sounds. It’s an active process (and you don’t suddenly “have it together” by 30 yrs. old) 

4.  What is one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit? 

Better posture (so my back will stop yelling at me) 

5.  If you could trade places with anyone for the day, who would you choose and why? 

Younger me (5 years younger than now) I think it’d be interesting to see younger me deal with today’s me with my responsibilities, vice versa (lol).

-------------------------------------------------------------<3------------------------------------------------------------------------------

VCA Hollywood's Hotshots- Meet Cristina!

VCA Hollywood has a loads of hotshots!  We love to highlight our team whenever possible.

This month's special highlight is Cristina.

Cristina is a bright light and happy presence in the our practice. She and Dr. Melanie Hnot, our veterinary dermatologist, go together like peanut butter and jelly and have a team that truly enjoys all that they do.

Cristina recently graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science (what an amazing accomplishment) and is working to continue her education on a path to becoming a veterinarian. 

Cristina also recently married the man of her dreams. Life is good. In the busy life she leads, she made the time to answer some fun questions for us.

Get to know Cristina:

1.    Your name/Position/Years working here

Cristina- Veterinary Technician-Dermatology

2.     What is an easy item on your bucket list that you haven’t done yet?

Go to Europe! Or Africa!

3.    Does your current car have a name? What is it?

Yes! Tiffany

4.    What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“Treat others the way you wish to be treated”

5.    What song or album could you listen to on repeat?

Taylor Swift- Album “Midnights”

6.    What simple/everyday food do you refuse to eat?

YOGURT!! 

7.    What current fact about your life would most impress your five your old self?

I am currently applying to the vet school of my dreams and married to an amazing man

8.    What piece of advice would you share with your younger self?

Keep working towards your dreams, never give up despite how hard it is.

Free Eye Exams for Service Animals One Day Event!

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and the Veterinary Ophthalmologist group, Animal Eye Guys hosted a day of FREE Eye Exams for Pre-Registered Service Animals in our community on Sunday, May 21st.

Sponsored by the ACVO - American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, this event was offered to support the goal of providing as many free eye exams as possible to qualified Service Animals across the U.S. and Canada throughout the month of May.

During this full-day event, we saw over 50 service animals that included individual handlers, canines from Memorial Hospital, therapy animals from the HSBC and Humane K9, BSO & Miramar canine officers, and search and rescue canines from Miami Dade and Hialeah. These are just a sample of the fantastic animals we had the pleasure to provide these sight-saving exams.

Service animals are essential workers and for us to play a part in providing these exams
aligns with the core values of VCA Hollywood Hospital and Animal Eye Guys of South Florida, who put pet health as our first priority.

This event is national in origin so while this one-day service has passed, every May these exams are available throughout the country by participating ophthalmologists every May. Registration for these exams is necessary and occurs every April.

Follow us on social to stay connected about future events.

 

Free Style Libre Recall

We recently received a recall notification for the FreeStyle Libre/FreeStyle Libre 2 Reader and notified owners that have purchased these products for their pet.

This recall does not affect any of the FreeStyle Libre family of sensors.

If you or someone you know has purchased these Readers, the FDA recommends you:

Stop using the FreeStyle Libre Reader and switch to a backup method ONLY if you experience any of the following:The Reader appears to be damaged or cracked

• The Reader appears to be damaged or crackedThere is visible swelling of the Reader
• The Reader gets too hot to hold
• The Reader is no longer able to hold a charge (for example, if it turns off unexpectedly or immediately after charging)
• You do not have the Abbott-provided USB cable and power adapter (charger)

If you have the Abbott-provided USB cable and power adapter AND you are not experiencing the problems listed below, you can continue to use the Abbott-provided Reader, USB cable, and power adapter.

If the Reader is damaged or a replacement USB cable or power adapter (charger) is needed, call Abbott's Customer Service at 1-855-632-8658 to request a replacement.

Complete recall information from the FDA is available here.

Free Eye Exams for Service Animals

 VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital (VCA Hollywood) and Animal Eye Guys (AEG) of South Florida will once again partner to offer the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program.  

Now in its 14th year, this program offers free eye exams for pre-registered service animals during the month of May. VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and Animal Eye Guys will host a one day event exclusively for these sight saving exams.

What:
Guardians and handlers of all qualified service animals are invited to VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital for a free eye exam provided by Dr. Robert Swinger, D.V.M., Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologist and his team at Animal Eye Guys of South Florida.

When: Local Event date: May 21, 2023

Where: VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital

Pre-Registration is required

Register April 1- 30th  online at http://www.acvo.org/

Who:
Active working animals such as guide dogs, handicapped assistance animals, detection dogs, therapy animals, and search and rescue dogs that have been certified by a formal training program or organization or are currently enrolled in a formal training program. The certifying organization could be national, regional or local in nature. 

How:
Pre-Registration for these exam begins-   April 1st -April 30th at www.ACVOeyeexam.org

Once registered, call  754-732-1792  with the registration number to schedule your appointment in May.

Since the program launched in 2008, nearly 16,000 service animals have been examined.  In addition to dogs, other service animals including horses and even a service donkey named Henry have received free sight saving exams.  

A sampling of groups served since the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam Event launched in 2008 include: Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and military working dogs from Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Puppies Behind Bars, an organization providing psychiatric service dogs to soldiers coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan, local fire, rescue and police agencies, and also individual service animal owners and handlers who rely on these amazing animals daily.  

The event is primarily sponsored by ACVO.  Other non-profit supporters include the American Veterinary Medical Association, most state veterinary medical associations in the U.S. and Canada, American Society of Veterinary Medical Association Executives, and other national service animal organizations.  

About VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital
VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital has earned a solid reputation for offering the very best in veterinary medicine as well as the latest technological advances and therapies. Founded in 1947,VCA HAH features 21 veterinarians and more than 100 highly trained technical and support staff members. For more information, please visit http://www.VCAhollywood or call 954.920.3556. 

About Animal Eye Guys
Animal Eye Guys has proudly served the Hollywood FL area for everything pet related. There clinic is run by Dr. Robert Swinger, who is a licensed, experienced Hollywood veterinarian and Board Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist. Their team is committed to educating clients in how to keep their pets healthy year round, with good nutrition and exercise. Animal Eye Guys stays on top of the latest advances in veterinarian technology and above all, remembers that all animals and pets need to be treated with loving care in every check-up, procedure, or surgery. https://animaleyeguys.com/

About the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists
The American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists® is an approved veterinary specialty organization of the American Board of Veterinary Specialties, and is recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Its mission is “to advance the quality of veterinary medicine through certification of veterinarians who demonstrate excellence as specialists in veterinary ophthalmology.” To become board certified, a candidate must complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, a one year internship, a three year approved residency and pass a series of credentials and examinations. http://www.acvo.org/

Purina Elemental Recall-NESTLÉ PURINA PETCARE COMPANY VOLUNTARILY RECALLS

PURINA PRO PLAN VETERINARY DIETS EL ELEMENTAL DRY DOG FOOD DUE TO POTENTIAL ELEVATED VITAMIN D

ST LOUIS – FEBRUARY 8, 2023

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company has voluntarily recalled select lots of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry dog food due to potentially elevated levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for dogs; however, ingestion of elevated levels can lead to potential health issues depending on the level of vitamin D and the length of exposure. These issues may include vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, and excessive drooling to renal (kidney) dysfunction.

Purina is taking this action after being contacted about two separate confirmed cases of a dog exhibiting signs of vitamin D toxicity after consuming the diet. Once taken off the diet, each of these dogs recovered.

The affected dry dog food was distributed by prescription only through veterinary clinics, Purina Vet Direct, Purina for Professionals, and other select retailers with the ability to validate a prescription. Bags of PPVD EL with the UPC Code and Production Code below should be immediately discarded. No other Purina products are affected.

Pet owners who purchased bags of the product listed above are asked to immediately stop feeding and dispose of the food. If signs such as weight loss, excessive drooling, vomiting, loss of appetite or increased thirst or urination have occurred in their dog while eating this diet, pet owners should contact their veterinarian.

Purina has asked their veterinarians and other retail partners to remove and destroy the affected product from their inventory.

We apologize to pet owners and veterinarians for any concerns or inconvenience this situation has caused. As pet experts and pet owners ourselves, the health and well-being of pets is our top priority.

Please contact the Purina team directly at 1-800-345-5678 or via email at https://www.purina.com/contactus for assistance in getting a refund or alternative diet recommendation.

Case Study:Esophageal Foreign Bodies

Esophageal Foreign Bodies

History
A 9-year-old female spayed Pomeranian presented to the VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital Emergency Service for an esophageal foreign body. Three to four days ago, the patient regurgitated several times after attempting to eat. Since then, the patient has been lethargic and anorexic.

The day prior to presentation, the patient originally presented to her primary veterinarian where diagnostics revealed the following:

Complete Blood Count: Hemoconcentration (58.52%), leukocytosis (24.94x109/L) characterized by mature neutrophilia (21.86x109/L), and thrombocytopenia (125x109/L)

 

Test	Result	Units	Reference Interval
Hematocrit	↑ 58.52	%	37 - 55
White Blood Cell Count	↑ 24.94	109/L	6 - 17
Absolute Neutrophil Count	↑ 21.86	109/L	3 – 12
Platelet Count	↓ 125	109/L	165 - 500

 Serum Chemistry Profile: Hyperglobulinemia (4.6 g/dL)

Test	Result	Units	Reference Interval
Blood Urea Nitrogen	9	mg/dL	7 – 27
Creatinine	0.8	mg/dL	0.5 – 1.8
Phosphorus	3.3	mg/dL	2.5 – 6.8
Calcium	9.1	mg/dL	7.9 – 12.0
Glucose	112	mg/dL	70 – 143
Alanine Transaminase	22	U/L	10 – 125
Alkaline Phosphatase	212	U/L	23 – 212
Gamma Glutanyl Transferase	0	U/L	0 – 11
Total Bilirubin	0.3	mg/dL	0 – 0.9
Cholesterol	178	mg/dL	110 – 320
Total Protein	7.6	g/dL	5.2 – 8.2
Albumin	3.0	g/dL	2.2 – 3.9
Globulin	↑ 4.6	g/dL	2.5 – 4.5

 Fecal: No ova or parasites seen

 Thoracic and Abdominal Radiographs

Findings

Within the thorax, there is a linear mineral opacity object superimposed over the caudal thoracic esophagus, along with moderate surrounding poorly defined soft tissue/fluid opacity. No other significant intrathoracic abnormalities are identified. In the abdomen, there is moderate bilateral renal mineralization. The liver is mildly enlarged. Peritoneal serosal detail is adequate. There is luxation of one of the patellas.
Impressions
Strongly suspected mineral and soft tissue opacity caudal esophageal foreign body. No obvious evidence of a gastric or small bowel or radiopaque foreign material is noted. Moderate bilateral renal mineralization, most likely chronic and incidental. Mild hepatomegaly.

 

Although the client was referred that day for an emergency esophagoscopy for foreign body removal, the client elected to hospitalize for the day for supportive care due to financial constraints (records not available). Upon discharge that evening, the patient appeared brighter and had a small appetite for wet food. However, the patient was once again lethargic and anorexic the next morning, which prompted the presentation to VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital.

Physical Examination
On presentation, the patient was quiet, alert, and responsive. Vitals were within normal limits. The patient had a body condition score of 6/9 with normal muscle condition. Mild hypersalivation was noted. Regurgitation/gagging/coughing was not elicited on cervical palpation, and the abdomen was soft and non-painful. The remainder of the physical exam was unremarkable.

Endoscopy
Due to financial constraints, the client elected not to perform repeat thoracic and abdominal radiographs to confirm the location of the foreign body. This was offered as endoscopy is only able to potentially address esophageal and gastric (and potential very proximal duodenal) foreign bodies due to the length of the scope. The patient’s bloodwork from the day prior was accepted as pre-anesthetic bloodwork.

The patient was pre-medicated with butorphanol 0.2 mg/kg and midazolam 0.2 mg/kg. Propofol 2.5 mg/kg total IV was used for induction, and the patient was intubated with a 4.5 Fr endotracheal tube. The patient was placed in left lateral recumbency, and an esophagoscopy was performed with a Karl Storz 60714 NKS scope (7.9 mm x 140 cm flexible gastroscope). The proximal esophagus appeared normal, and a bone foreign material was identified in the caudal esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter could not be initially identified due to the shape of the bone. The mucosa surrounding the bone was moderately erythematous and markedly friable.

The bone was successfully removed using a snare. On re-exploration, the region was markedly ulcerated. The lower esophageal sphincter still had not been visualized.

On closer inspection of the ulcerated region, a full thickness esophageal perforation was identified. The heart could be seen beating in the thoracic cavity.

Immediately following this, the patient became cyanotic, and esophagoscopy was discontinued. Within seconds, the patient arrested, and CPR performed for 15 minutes did not result in a spontaneous return to circulation.

Discussion
Bones are the most common type of foreign body involved in canine esophageal foreign bodies1–4. Other common types of foreign bodies include fish hooks, treats, balls, and wooden sticks^1,2,5. Young small breed dogs, such as West Highland White Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Chihuahuas, are over-represented^1,3. Patients may present with gagging, retching, coughing, vomiting, regurgitation, hypersalivation, dysphagia, and/or odynophagia^1,3,5. Diagnosis is typically achieved through radiography^3,5.

Possible complications of esophageal foreign bodies include esophagitis, esophageal stricture, esophageal perforation, and aspiration pneumonia^1,2,5. The duration of clinical signs before presentation is correlated with the severity of esophagitis, risk for esophageal perforation, and need for surgical intervention^1,3,4,6. Bones, fish hooks, and esophageal foreign bodies present for greater than 72 hours have been associated with an increased risk of perforation¹.

Endoscopy is the treatment of choice for removal of the foreign body or dislodgement of the foreign body into the stomach for digestion or surgical extraction^1,4,5. Esophageal perforation or hemorrhage during the procedure are associated with increased mortality². Undergoing surgery after failed endoscopic attempts and repeating endoscopy if surgery is recommended but declined are also associated with increased mortality².

If an esophageal perforation is identified, surgery is often recommended⁵. In patients in which surgery is not an option, medical management with IV fluids, IV antimicrobials, analgesia, and gastroprotectants may be an option^1,5.

Conclusion
Dogs with esophageal foreign bodies should be referred for emergency esophagoscopy +/- surgery, as the duration of clinical signs is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Although emergency surgery for an esophageal perforation remains the gold standard, some dogs with an esophageal perforation may survive to discharge with medical management alone.

 

Authored by: 

Melody Chen, DVM, MS

Practice Limited to Internal Medicine

melody.chen@vca.com

References
1. Sterman AA, Mankin KMT, Ham KM, Cook AK. Likelihood and outcome of esophageal perforation secondary to esophageal foreign body in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2018 Oct 15;253(8):1053–6.

2. Burton AG, Talbot CT, Kent MS. Risk Factors for Death in Dogs Treated for Esophageal Foreign Body Obstruction: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 222 Cases (1998-2017). J Vet Intern Med. 2017 Nov;31(6):1686–90.

3. Thompson HC, Cortes Y, Gannon K, Bailey D, Freer S. Esophageal foreign bodies in dogs: 34 cases (2004-2009): Esophageal foreign body in dogs. J Vet Emerg Crit Care. 2012 Apr;22(2):253–61.

4. Juvet F, Pinilla M, Shiel RE, Mooney CT. Oesophageal foreign bodies in dogs: factors affecting success of endoscopic retrieval. Ir Vet J. 2010 Dec;63(3):163.

5. Teh H, Winters L, James F, Irwin P, Beck C, Mansfield C. Medical management of esophageal perforation secondary to esophageal foreign bodies in 5 dogs: Medical management of esophageal perforation. J Vet Emerg Crit Care. 2018 Sep;28(5):464–8.

6. Rousseau A, Prittie J, Broussard JD, Fox PR, Hoskinson J. Incidence and characterization of esophagitis following esophageal foreign body removal in dogs: 60 cases (1999?2003). J Vet Emerg Crit Care. 2007 Jun;17(2):159–63.