Common linear foreign bodies include string, yarn, carpet, cloth material, or leashes. Linear foreign bodies present a unique challenge as they can trail down the intestines which will result in intestinal plication and the string material can start to act as a saw on the mesenteric border of the intestines. This can result in perforation, bowel death, and septic peritonitis. Clinical signs can include anorexia, vomiting, lethargy, regurgitation, ptyalism, abdominal pain, dehydration and, as in this case study, the offending foreign object may be protruding from the anus.

Rusty, a 6-year-old orange tabby, found some sparkly string which he decided might be tasty. The owner witnessed him ingest the string 2 days prior to presentation. He had passed a few bits of string in his stools, but on this particular day, he had approximately 4 cm of string protruding from his anus and Rusty became anorexic and painful.

Rusty's radiographs confirming intestinal plication with no free air and normal serosal detail within the abdomen. (Image courtesy of Heather Timmermans)

Physical examination revealed normal vital signs with mild dehydration and palpation of the intestines revealed they were bunched and painful. No string was found in the oral cavity under the tongue.

Abdominal radiographs confirmed intestinal plication with no free air and normal serosal detail within the abdomen. The stomach contained a soft tissue opacity in the pylorus and a heterogenous mix of gas and soft tissue opacity within the fundus.

Blood work revealed a normal complete blood count, mild hyperglycemia at 275 mg/dL (reference range 70-150), and mild hypokalemia at 3.3 mmol/L (reference range 3.7-5.8). The hyperglycemia was attributed to stress and pain and the hypokalemia was attributed to anorexia and gastrointestinal

GI) obstruction. Intravenous fluids were started to rehydrate him prior to surgery.

Rusty was placed in dorsal recumbency, and his abdomen was sterilely prepped. He received 22 mg/kg cefazolin IV perioperatively. A 10 blade was used to make a ventral midline incision from the xyphoid process to just caudal to the umbilicus. The intestines were plicated from the pylorus to the large bowel.

Rusty's stomach exteriorized from the abdomen

The stomach was exteriorized from the abdomen and packed off with sterile moistened lap sponges. A stab incision was made into the stomach and a hemostat was used to exteriorize the wadded string from the pylorus. The string was cut caudal to the wad of string. The intestinal plication was immediately improved. The stomach was closed with 3-0 monoweb in a double inverting pattern. The intestines were gently manipulated into more normal positioning. Evaluation of the mesenteric side of the intestines revealed no evidence of perforation nor necrosis. Gentle traction on the string from the rectum did not result in movement of the linear foreign body so the distal jejunum was isolated outside of the abdomen and packed off with sterile lap sponges. A stab incision was made into the distal jejunum, the string was exteriorized and cut.

The orad portion of the string was able to be gently removed from the jejunal incision. The caudal portion of the string was able to be removed with rectal manipulation caudally. The jejunal incision was closed in a simple interrupted pattern with 3-0 monoweb. The abdomen was closed with 2-0 monoweb in a simple continuous pattern, the subcutaneous tissues were closed with 3-0 monoweb in a simple continuous pattern and then an intradermal pattern. The skin was closed with 3-0 monoweb in a cruciate pattern. Recovery from anesthesia was uneventful.

Rusty was continued on intravenous fluids for the remainder of the day. He received maropitant for nausea and Zorbium topically for pain control. After a couple of days of ileus, which was treated with Mirataz ointment, oral Cerenia, and gentle syringe feeding, his appetite returned to normal. He was back to his normal self by suture removal.

Articles

Objects can get caught around the base of the tongue, knot up in the stomach, and become lodged in the pylorus or further down in the gastrointestinal tract 

Case study: Linear foreign body in feline patients

, has been eradicated from the United States, according to an announcement from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). The achievement represents the culmination of 5 years of dedicated effort by the APHIS, WSDA, researchers, and the community.

With a long stinger and toxic venom, the northern giant hornet posed a threat to pollinators and the ecosystems that depend on them, as this invasive species could eliminate a honey bee colony in a matter of hours.

 However, this species does not typically attack humans unless provoked. Native to Asia, the northern giant hornet is the largest hornet in the world, with the size of a double-A battery—approximately 2 inches long.

The northern giant hornet was first spotted in the Vancouver Island region of Canada in August 2019.

 Later that same year, it garnered national attention after it was found close to Blaine, Washington.

During the eradication effort, the APHIS used a ground-based radio telemetry tracking system to locate northern giant hornet nests in heavy forests, generally hidden inside alder trees.

 Four northern giant hornet nests were eliminated between 2020 and 2021 by the WSDA and its partners. The project called for a unique approach, specialized tools, and protective suits to guarantee the team’s safety in each eradication, according to the agency.

Photo courtesy of Karla Salp, Washington State Department of Agriculture.

The success in eradicating this species was a collective effort with community involvement: public reports of northern giant hornet sightings led to almost half of the confirmed hornet detections. According to the APHIS, local residents and citizen scientists played a vital role by reporting sightings, monitoring traps, and tracking wasp populations for signs of the hornet.

“This success demonstrates what’s possible when agencies and communities unite toward a common goal,” Mark Davidson, deputy administrator for APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine Program—the country’s first line of defense against the introduction and spread of invasive pests—said in a release by the agency.

 “By tackling this threat head-on, we protected not only pollinators and crops but also the industries, communities, and ecosystems that depend on them.”

APHIS in action: Victory over the world’s largest hornet species. 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Accessed January 6, 2025. 

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species

Plant protection today: PPQ invests in technology to keep hornet-hunting employees safe. 

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/plant-protection-today-ppq-invests-technology-keep-hornet-hunting

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. October 17, 2024. Accessed January 6, 2025. 

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plantsplant-healthplant-pests-and-diseases/northern-giant-hornet

Officials announced the eradication of Vespa mandarinia, marking the end of a 5-year battle to protect pollinators from the invasive species

Northern giant hornet eradicated from the United States

As the General Manager of Caring Pathways and a veterinarian who has walked alongside countless families in their pets’ final chapters, I’ve learned that no 2 clients are the same. Each family approaches this profound moment with their own emotions, expectations, and coping mechanisms. Understanding these differences is crucial for providing compassionate and tailored support during such a tender time.

Planners often want to understand every detail of what’s to come. They ask thoughtful questions about the process, logistics, and next steps. These clients find comfort in preparation, and the focus on planning helps them regain some sense of control during an uncontrollable time.

Provide clear explanations of what they might be able to expect with regards to disease progressions or other insightful information surrounding their pet and any unique circumstances.

Offer resources such as quality of life (QOL) scales, daily QOL tracking calendars, or other helpful materials they can review at their own pace.

Ensure that they understand all their options leading up to their pet’s final life stage, including in-home hospice care and in-home euthanasia. Providing recommendations to in-home end-of-life companies that you trust can go a long way in demonstrating to these clients that you have the best interest of both client and patient in mind.

Acknowledge and normalize potential anticipatory grief. It can cause hyper-fixation on details and meticulous following of instructions and, while this can be helpful, it may also feel overwhelming at times for the individual.

Caring Pathways Gina Singleton, DVM creates space for Koa's owner during a Quality of Life Assessment. (Images courtesy of Caring Pathways)

For planners, knowledge is empowering. Anticipating their questions and proactively addressing them fosters trust and reduces their anxiety.

These clients wear their emotions openly, and their love for their pet is palpable in every word and tear. Their grief begins long before the final appointment, and they may need extra reassurance that they’re making the right decision.

Listen with patience and empathy, letting them share their feelings without interruption. Setting aside longer appointment times to give these families the time they need and deserve is a helpful practice.

If your clinic is unable to accommodate longer appointment times to discuss quality of life, consider a referral to a practice that specializes in end-of-life care and that can offer extended QOL discussions via TeleAdvice or in the client’s home.

Reaffirm their decision is out of love and selflessness, and allow space for them to express emotions and offer comforting words to validate their grief.

A compassionate presence is invaluable to emotional hearts, helping them feel seen, heard, and supported during this vulnerable time.

Stoics approach their pet’s end-of-life with a calm, composed demeanor. While they may appear detached, this is often their way of managing overwhelming emotions. Stoics might focus on practicalities and avoid showing visible signs of grief.

Respect their need for composure, and avoid pushing them to share emotions they may not be ready to express.

Focus on practical support, such as compassionately discussing aftercare options or addressing logistical questions.

Gently remind them that your team is there for emotional support if and when they need it. Having resources on hand like a Grief Support Specialist or certified counselor that you can refer them to is another way to show support to these clients who may be ready to open up with a professional down the road.

Patience and quiet understanding allow stoics to process grief on their own terms, knowing they have a safety net if needed.

Clients experiencing guilt often wrestle with the timing of their decision. They may question whether they’re acting too soon or late, and their words often reflect inner conflict, such as “Am I doing the right thing?” or “How do I know if it’s too early/too late?”

Reassure them that choosing a peaceful end is an act of profound love and kindness.

Share objective insights about their pet’s quality of life to help them feel confident in their decision. Using QOL scales can aid in this process.

Let them know that guilt is a natural emotion and that their love for their pet is evident in their care and thoughtfulness.

A compassionate reminder that they are prioritizing their pet’s comfort can help alleviate their guilt and give them peace of mind.

A grieving owner holds her recently deceased companion's head following an in-home euthanasia

Silent grievers process emotions internally and may not outwardly display grief. They often prioritize their pet’s comfort over their own feelings, appearing stoic even in deeply emotional moments. 

Offer a quiet presence and reassurance without forcing conversation.

Provide opportunities for them to ask questions or share feelings if they choose.

Respect their need for silence, while reminding them of the resources available to support them.

Sometimes, simply sitting with them in compassionate silence can be the greatest gift.

Support-seekers often look to their veterinarian and the care team for emotional guidance and validation. They may rely heavily on your expertise and perspective to navigate this challenging time.

Provide emotional reassurance and share stories of other families who have walked a similar path.

Emphasize that they are not alone and that your team is there for them every step of the way.

Suggest grief resources, self-help books, or support groups if they express a need for it.

For these clients, the bond they share with your team can be a powerful source of comfort and strength.

Every pet parent’s journey is deeply personal, shaped by the unique relationship with their beloved companion. As care providers, it’s the veterinary team's responsibility to meet them where they are, adapting approaches to suit individual needs. Doing so will help them remember the passing of their beloved pet with fondness, as opposed to the alternative, because they felt supported by their professional team.

Caring Pathways holds space for each client’s emotions and decisions, ensuring they feel supported and respected. By offering empathy, understanding, and unwavering care, we can help families navigate this heart-wrenching time with grace and love, knowing they are not alone in their journey.

In the end, the goal is to honor not only the lives of the pets we care for but also the relationships they shared with their families. This is the heart of our mission, and it’s what makes our work so meaningful.

Assistance with guiding clients through end-of-life care with compassion and understanding

Navigating different client types as their pet's journey nears its end 

Good morning and happy Monday dvm360 readers! For those being affected by the winter weather and snow hitting parts of the United States, we hope everyone is staying safe. Throughout the week, we will continue to provide our readers with the latest news in veterinary medicine, so continue to check in throughout the week to see what is going on in the industry!

Here is an inside look at what you can find this week on dvm360.com:

A cow in southern Mexico has recently been discovered to have New World screwworm infection. New World screwworm has been generally eradicated in the United States since 1966, but veterinarians close to the Mexico-United States border are being asked to look for signs of possible infections.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced that after 5 years, the northern giant hornet has been eradicated from Washington State and the United States.

On this week’s episode of The Vet Blast Podcast presented by dvm360 our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, sat down with Joe Owens, DVM, to discuss problem solving, decision making, and communication skills veterinary professionals can use to help with patients, clients, and other professionals. 

Otis, now a 6-year-old pug, was brought to UC Davis veterinary hospital’s emergency room for respiratory and cough issues at 2 months old. After his history showed his littermate had recently died with similar symptoms, veterinarians did a through workup where they discovered he had Hemophilia A.

Because every client and patient is different, when it comes to end-of-life care, the discussion needs to be tailored to each individual patient. Chelsea McGivney, DVM, general manager at Caring Pathways will share some tips on how to navigate the various client times as their pet approaches the end of their life.

Here is a sneak peek of this week’s headlines 

Sneak peek: New World screwworm detected in southern Mexico, and other veterinary news 

A new grant from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) is supporting research on how adoption of certain small animals affects the well-being of pet owners. A team of investigators at the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom (UK) was named the recipients of grant.

The human-animal bond between pets and their owners has proven benefits that include reduced anxiety and stress, lower blood pressure and decreased risk of heart disease, allergy prevention in children, support for children with autism and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. In recognition of the importance of such bonds, HABRI provides a Human-Animal Bond Certification program in partnership with the American Veterinary Medical Association and the North American Veterinary Community.

Much of the current research surrounding the human-animal bond is focused on canines and felines, according to Carri Westgarth, PhD, MPH, BSc, the principal investigator of the planned UK study and chair in human-animal interaction at the University of Liverpool. The new study will instead focus on the human-animal bond of pet owners with rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, and mice, an area that has a less developed evidence base, Westgarth noted. “Our research will help uncover the impact of owning small, furry pets and the experiences people have adopting them from shelters, which we hope will help shelters guide and support successful small pet adoptions,” Westgarth said in a news release.

“Human-animal bond research should include all pet species,” Steven Feldman, MPS, president of HABRI, based in Washington, DC, said in a news release.

 “HABRI is proud to support research to document the benefits of rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small pets for human health and wellbeing.”

Investigators will rely on surveys to evaluate any mental and physical changes to the human participants’ well-being following adoption of these small animals from a shelter. Furthermore, investigators expect to conduct interviews with owners of these pet species to gain deeper insight into the human-animal bond and the pet adoption process.

The study is divided into 2 parts. In part 1, investigators plan to conduct in-depth, face-to-face interviews with 30 pet owners. Their perceptions and experiences of owning a small pet will be examined with a focus on human well-being. In part 2, investigators will conduct a longitudinal cohort study of 450 pet owners who have newly adopted animals from Woodgreen Pets Charity based in Godmanchester, England, and from other shelters. Follow-ups with participants at 1-month, 3-month, and 6-month intervals will track how the human-animal bond develops over time and measure changes in owners’ psychological, social, and physical health. Investigators anticipate seeing positive changes in health outcomes following the small shelter pets adoptions.

“This new research will shine a much-needed spotlight on the benefits of owning a small pet and the unique bonds people form with them,” Fiona Cooke, PhD, MSc, MBA, MA, BSc, head of specialist services at Woodgreen Pets Charity, said in the news release.

 “This study will not only improve support for people adopting small pets from charities like Woodgreen, but will also aid our work to keep more pets in loving homes.”

HABRI supports various scientific research projects about the connection between humans and animals. These projects include focuses on healthy aging, workplace wellness, social isolation, mental health conditions, and medical conditions such as cancer, allergies and cardiovascular health.

A grant announced in December 2024 also supports a study at the University of Surrey in the UK that is investigating the use of artificial intelligence for collecting and analyzing data. Investigators will apply methods of machine learning and data analytics, along with human cohort research data, to gain knowledge about the human-animal bond. “This project has the potential to provide valuable longitudinal data about the benefits of pet ownership and the importance of supporting the human-animal bond as a matter of public health,” Feldman said in a news release.

New research to examine role of small pets on human wellbeing. News release. Human Animal Bond Research Institute. January 6, 2024. Accessed January 6, 2025.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-research-to-examine-role-of-small-pets-on-human-wellbeing-302341934.html

Human-animal bond certification. American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed January 6, 2025. 

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/one-health/human-animal-bond/human-animal-bond-certificate

Research. Human Animal Bond Research Institute. Accessed January 6, 2025. 

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute awards grant to The University of Surrey. News release. Human Animal Bond Research Institute. December 9, 2024. Accessed January 6, 2025. 

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute awarded the funds to a team of investigators in the United Kingdom

New grant supports research on the link between small animal adoption and human well-being

Good evening dvm360 readers, and Happy New Year! We hope that you all had a great start to the holiday season and a safe and happy start to the new year. Through the year, dvm360 will be heading to our 5 Fetch conferences, including a new location in National Harbor, Maryland, and we start with Fetch Charlotte. Just for our loyal readers, you can use code MORECE2025 until tomorrow, January 4, 2025, at midnight for 50% off any Fetch conference. You can learn more about each conference and register 

As you check out which Fetch conference you want to attend this year, here is what was popular during the first week of 2025.

, Christopher Shapley, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CVFT, provided insight into the lecture he presented at dvm360’s Fetch Long Beach conference, discussing more about what acupuncture is, its benefits, and the history behind it.

, Phil Tucak, BSc, BVMS, shares updates on the organization working on the advancement of the statutory regulation across Australia, plus the new antimicrobial stewardship learning opportunities in 2025.

 of The Vet Blast Podcast presented by dvm360, host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, welcomed Sebastian Gabor, MBA, cofounder of Digitail, to discuss the current landscape of artificial intelligence in veterinary medicine as we kick of 2025.

Thinking about heading to Fetch Charlotte this year, or are you on the fence? Check out the amazing keynote, Joya Griffin, DVM, DACVD, and Phillip Bergman, DVM, PhD, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), as they take on the Fetch Charlotte stage to kick off each day. You can learn more about them and their keynote addresses 

Multiple veterinary organizations and clinics, including Covetrus pharmaceutical compounding facility and Tennessee Equine Hospital East, have open their doors or expanding their facilities recently. Check out the recent openings across the US in this week’s 