Meghan Respess, DVM, DACVECC, discusses the need for more banking programs and blood donors

The increasing demand for blood products

There is a significant short of blood products for veterinary use, according to Meghan Respess, DVM, DACVECC, a veterinary criticalist and national director of blood banking for BluePearl Pet Hospital. In a 

interview, Respess discusses the need for an increase in pet blood donations and blood banking programs, and some reasons why the need for blood products is growing.

The following is a transcript of the video:

: I've been a criticalist for over a decade. So in my realm of ICU and emergency medicine, I've always seen the need for blood transfusions in pets, whether it be trauma, cancers, chronic illnesses, and many toxicities. Many pets present with the need of blood. And that's always been my realm.

There is a massive shortage of blood products in the veterinary world, similar to people. And although it's been going on for quite some time, the need has been even more pressing in recent years, and a large part of that is because more people seek emergency and specialty care than previously and, so, getting donors in will help us grow our own programs, same with any other private hospital. Many hospitals have their own programs, but bringing in and expanding our own donor pools through the voluntary community also helps mitigate the pressure on commercial blood banks as well as other private veterinary hospitals that have donors of their own.

The trend towards more pets being part of the family and the seeking of more specialized veterinary care, as well as the advances we've seen in veterinary medicine over the last decade plus has really highlighted the need for blood and blood products and utilizing them appropriately and responsibly. And also creating more products, which, again, there is a significant shortage, and there's a lot of pressure on commercial blood banks, as well as smaller blood donor pools and their own private hospitals.

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Meghan Respess, DVM, DACVECC, discusses the need for more banking programs and animal donors 

Advancements in the careers of individuals in the veterinary industry often means new opportunities for not only personal growth, but growth within the company they are advancing in. Outstanding career achievements can also lead to recognition in the profession, highlighting the contributions and leadership of individuals who drive change and progress.

The following individuals are being spotlighted in this week’s “Paws and profits” column:

Eve Hanks, PhD, BVMS, CertAVP, CEO of MI:RNA

Eve Hanks, PhD, BVMS, CertAVP, CEO of MI:RNA. (Photo courtesy of MI:RNA)

The inaugural Entrepreneurial Spirit Feather in Her Cap award was recently awarded to Eve Hanks, PhD, BVMS, CertAVP, CEO of MI:RNA—a veterinary diagnostics company headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, The award celebrates the achievements of women in animal health and aims to empower the next generation of industry leaders. Hanks, recognized at a ceremony in Orlando, Florida on January 27, 2025, was recognized for her remarkable contributions to the animal health industry, especially her commitment to empowering women in the profession.

Hanks was instrumental to the development of a strong pipeline of female talent at MI:RNA and across the industry through her mentorship. Her commitment to offering guidance, support, and opportunities for professional growth has empowered many women to achieve their highest potential, according to a news release.

“Eve’s impact on the veterinary world is substantial, with her visionary leadership and innovative approach transforming the landscape of veterinary diagnostics,” Lisa Lee, senior vice president of US Petcare, and Feather In Her Cap director, said in the release.

 “Her commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace have been instrumental in MI:RNA’s success. This award is testament to her exceptional career achievements and her tireless efforts to inspire the next generation of women leaders in animal diagnostics."

Benjamin Daniels, JD, MPP, general counsel and chief compliance officer, Wedgewood

Wedgewood, a veterinary compounding pharmacy, has appointed Benjamin Daniels, JD, MPP, as its general counsel and chief compliance officer—a new role in the company. In his new position, Daniels will spearhead the company’s legal, regulatory, compliance, and quality teams.

“Wedgewood is at a pivotal moment of growth and innovation, and Ben’s exceptional legal and regulatory expertise will be critical as we lead the evolution of veterinary pharmacy,” said Alejandro Bernal, Wedgewood CEO, in a company release.

 “With his extensive experience in healthcare law and compliance, and a proven record of driving operational excellence, Ben is uniquely positioned to help us achieve our vision of being the premier partner to veterinarians and pet owners by delivering unmatched pharmacy services and products for animal health.”

In his most recent role, Daniels was the general counsel and chief compliance officer at JORB Health Group, leading all legal affairs for the digital health start-up. He has also held positions at Amazon and Fresenius Medical Care. Currently, he is the chair of the life sciences practice group at the American Health Law Association.

Lance Yohe, CJF, farrier, UC Davis. (Photo courtesy of UC Davis)

UC Davis recently welcomed Lance Yohe, CJF,as its new farrier for its veterinary hospital’s Large Animal Clinic. With substantial experience in offering hoof care and developing therapeutic interventions, Yohe not only provides trimming, shoeing, and other hoof care at UC Davis, but works alongside the veterinary team at UC Davis to evaluate and address hood-related issues impacting a horse’s health.

With more than 30 years of experience as a farrier, Yohe completed his education at the Eastern School of Farriery in 1993, later becoming a certified farrier and certified journeyman farrier through the American Farrier’s Association (AFA). He was an active member of AFA from 2008, serving as regional director and executive board member, and was also the director and vice president of the Western States Farrier Association.

"I’m excited to join the UC Davis team. It’s an honor to work with one of the best equine veterinary teams in the world,” said Yohe in a university report.

 “My philosophy toward developing customized shoeing plans based on the individual needs of each horse fits perfectly with UC Davis’ goal of providing personalized compassionate care to optimize the health and performance of their equine patients.”

Sabia Schwarzer, MA, chief corporate affairs officer, Independence Pet Holdings

Sabia Schwarzer, MA, chief corporate affairs officer, Independence Pet Holdings. (Photo courtesy of Independence Pet Holdings)

Sabia Schwarzer, MA, has assumed the position of chief corporate affairs officer in the Independence Pet Holdings (IPH) executive team. Schwarzer’s love for people and storytelling has helped multinational organizations build trust among key stakeholder groups, according to IPH. With more than 25 years in senior leadership positions at Allianz and Merck, she has been acknowledged multiple times by Provoke Media as one of the most influential in-house communicators worldwide.

"I am thrilled to join IPH, a company focused on the well-being of pets and pet parents. In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain, pets bring comfort and play a crucial role in supporting mental health and overall wellness. I'm eager to collaborate with my new colleagues across the IPH brands to make a meaningful impact," said Schwarzer in a company release.

Jeff Werber, DVM, AB, chief veterinary advisor, ScribbleVet

Jeff Werber, DVM, AB is joining ScribbleVet, an AI-powered scribe, as its chief veterinary advisor. A past contributor to 

, Werber is the founder of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)-certified Century Veterinary Group in Los Angeles, as well as past president of the Association of Veterinary Communicators. He is also an Emmy award winner for his reporting of pet health. To date, Werber continues to make frequent appearances on CNN, KTLA, and other national media outlets.

"I am honored to join ScribbleVet in its mission to revolutionize the profession," said Werber in a ScribbleVet release.

 "Over the years, I've learned that clients don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care. ScribbleVet helps me focus on my clients and patients instead of administrative tasks, and I'm excited to collaborate with them to bring this benefit to all veterinarians."

"Werber is well-known for his passion and focus on the client experience," said Rohan Relan, founder and CEO of ScribbleVet, in the release.

 "Unfortunately, veterinarians are often burdened with overhead that prevents them from being fully patient-focused. We believe that Werber's expertise will guide us in building AI that can enable every single vet to deliver exceptional client experiences."

Pioneering animal diagnostics company CEO awarded prestigious US honour. News release. MI:RNA. January 28, 2025.

Wedgewood appoints Benjamin Daniels as general counsel and chief compliance officer. News release. Wedgewood. January 21, 2025. Accessed February 6, 2025.

Warren R. UC Davis welcomes new farrier. University of California, Davis. January 17, 2025. Accessed February 6, 2025. 

https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/uc-davis-welcomes-new-farrier

Independence Pet Holdings announces Sabia Schwarzer as chief corporate affairs officer. News release. Independence Pet Holdings. January 17, 2025. Accessed February 6, 2025. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/independence-pet-holdings-announces-sabia-schwarzer-as-chief-corporate-affairs-officer-302354390.html

ScribbleVet welcomes Dr. Jeff Werber as chief veterinary advisor; announces enhancements to AI scribe solution. ScribbleVet. News release. January 16, 2025. Accessed February 6, 2025. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/scribblevet-welcomes-dr-jeff-werber-as-chief-veterinary-advisor-announces-enhancements-to-ai-scribe-solution-302353577.html

Articles

These 5 individuals are being recognized for advancements in their careers

Paws and profits: Celebrating career milestones in the veterinary industry

pregnant Brussels Griffon dog relaxes in bed.

Dystocia, a difficult or obstructed labor potentially resulting in the inability to expel a fetus, is a common reproductive emergency in dogs and cats. In at least 1 study, the incidence of dystocia in overrepresented breeds such as the Boston terrier, French bulldog, and English bulldog was greater than 80%.

 With the increasing frequency in the French bulldog, dystocia will continue to be a common presentation to first-opinion practices and referral hospitals.

Dystocia may occur with maternal or fetal causes. Maternal causes include primary uterine inertia, birth canal obstruction, uterine torsion or prolapse, and vaginal stricture. Fetal causes include malposition, oversize, or fetal death.

Primary uterine inertia is considered the most common cause of dystocia in dogs and cats.

 Underlying causes of primary uterine inertia are debated. Some suggested causes include excessive stretching of the myometrium from a large litter or a very small litter that cannot prompt strong uterine contractions.

 Hypocalcemia and low endogenous oxytocin are also often implicated but still debated.

Clinical signs may vary based on the underlying cause of the dystocia. If primary uterine inertia is responsible, then very few to no signs of impending parturition may be observed. Clinical signs that may be observed include weak or absent contractions, a prolonged interval between neonates, or strong contractions exceeding 30 minutes without production of the fetus. Four hours is considered the upper limit of the time interval between neonates in canine patients.

 Ultimately, a prolonged gestation, lack of progression from stage 1 to stage 2 labor within a maximum of 24 hours, or a failure to deliver neonates within 36 hours of rectal temperature falling below 100 °F is consistent with a diagnosis of dystocia.

It can be challenging to differentiate between interruption of parturition and true dystocia in cats. Diagnostics must be performed to assess for fetal distress, malpositioning, or fetalmaternal mismatch to aid in that diagnosis.

One of the keys to determining the appropriate treatment plan for a patient with dystocia is whether an obstruction is present, as well as screening for evidence of fetal distress. Threeview abdominal radiographs are necessary to count the number of neonates present and screen for an obstruction (

). The presence of an obstruction is an absolute contraindication for medical management. A large number of remaining fetuses may also be considered a relative contraindication, given the amount of time that may be required to deliver a large number successfully. Radiographs can correctly determine the number of fetuses in 93% of pregnancies in dogs, whereas ultrasound is correct only 36% of the time.

 Fetal death may also be detected on radiographs and would be an indication for emergency surgery—this may be visualized by evidence of gas associated with a fetus.

. Lateral abdominal radiograph of a canine patient with a large number of fetuses.

Ultrasound is necessary to assess fetal heart rates, an indicator of fetal distress. Fetal heart rates below 180 beats per minute indicate distress and a need for surgery.

 The presence of bowel movements may also be associated with significant fetal distress.

Point-of-care lab work should also be performed to screen for electrolyte derangements, hypoglycemia, and dehydration. If these are noted, they should be treated accordingly.

Criteria that may be identified to support attempting medical management before surgical intervention include a small number of remaining fetuses, fetal heart rate exceeding 150 beats per minute, no evidence of obstruction or fetal abnormalities, and weak or absent contractions—all contributing to a presumptive diagnostic of primary uterine inertia.

If primary uterine inertia is suspected, oxytocin (0.2 U/5 kg) can be administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously every 30 minutes. If a fetus is produced, this can be repeated every 30 to 40 minutes. However, if no fetus is produced after 2 doses, surgical intervention is indicated. Calcium gluconate has been previously recommended for treating dystocia in dogs and cats; however, the evidence behind its use is controversial.

The typical surgical intervention for a dystocia case may consist of a cesarean delivery with or without an ovariohysterectomy. To minimize risk to the fetuses, the bitch or queen should be clipped and undergo a dirty prep before any premedication is administered. Additionally, the bitch or queen should be induced in the operating room, ideally with the surgical team already scrubbed and gowned and the instrument table prepared.

The patient is positioned in ventral recumbency, and the abdomen from xiphoid to pubis is prepped and draped. A ventral midline incision is created, beginning a few centimeters cranial to the umbilicus and extending to the pubis. Care must be taken when entering the abdomen as the linea is often stretched and thin because of the gravid uterus. The uterus is carefully exteriorized, taking care with manipulation to reduce iatrogenic injury. A hysterotomy is created over the body of the uterus, and each fetus is removed in a milking fashion along with its associated placenta if possible. Gentle but consistent and firm traction may be recommended to remove the placentas; however, if unable to remove without risking significant hemorrhage, they may be left in situ to pass naturally. If unable to effectively milk the fetuses caudal to the original hysterotomy, it may be extended along the uterine horn on either side to facilitate delivery in a T or Y shape as needed.

Once each fetus is removed, the amniotic sac is ruptured, which is often easiest cranially near the head. The umbilical cord is clamped and transected between 2 hemostats before the fetus is passed off to an assistant with a warm and sterile towel for resuscitation. Ideally, the portion of the umbilical cord left with the fetus is left long if intravenous medications are needed.

The hysterotomy may be closed in a single-layer or double-layer fashion. The author prefers a single-layer closure using appropriately sized monofilament in a simple continuous pattern. The abdomen is lavaged thoroughly and then closed routinely. External. skin sutures should be avoided.

Suppose an ovariohysterectomy is meant to be performed concurrently. In that case, this may either be performed as an en bloc ovariohysterectomy with the entire uterus handed off with fetuses in situ to the resuscitation team, or it may be performed after the cesarean delivery has been completed. It was previously believed that performing an ovariohysterectomy concurrently was associated with a higher complication rate and maternal mortality. However, this has been disproven. If performing an en bloc ovariohysterectomy, the fetuses must be delivered within 60 seconds of clamps being applied to the uterine blood supply.

Survival in bitches following cesarean delivery is as high as 99% in some studies and 80% by 7 days postoperatively for puppies.

 Information on survival in cats is limited, but maternal survival is as high as 94% in some studies, with neonatal survival as high as 90%.

Postoperative care should include analgesics, intravenous fluids, and heat support as needed. Pregabalin is a safe and effective oral medication for pain control in postpartum dogs and cats. Ideally, patients are discharged as soon as possible and do not have a prolonged hospitalization due to the risk to the immune-naive neonates.

Owners should be counseled that clear to serosanguineous vaginal discharge can be expected for up to 4 weeks postoperatively in the bitch or queen. They should also be counseled on observing closely for vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, as these could be indications of postparturient complications such as metritis, eclampsia, and mastitis.

Evans KM, Adams VJ. Proportion of litters of purebred dogs born by caesarean section. 

. 2010;51(2):113-118. doi:10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00902.x

Veterinary Surgery: Small Animal Expert Consult. 2nd ed

Feldman E, Nelson R. Periparturient diseases. In: 

Canine and Feline Endocrinology and Reproduction. 3rd ed

Toal RL, Walker MA, Henry GA. A comparison of real-time ultrasound, palpation and radiography in pregnancy detection and litter size determination in the bitch. 

. 1986;27(4):102-108. doi:10.1111/j.1740-8261.1986.tb00013.x

Zone MA, Wanke MM. Diagnosis of canine fetal health by ultrasonography. 

Moon PF, Erb HN, Ludders JW, Gleed RD, Pascoe PJ. Perioperative management and mortality rates of dogs undergoing cesarean section in the United States and Canada. 

Lambertini C, Ballotta G, Cunto M, et al. Retrospective evaluation of the induction of anaesthesia with alfaxalone or propofol in cats undergoing caesarean section. 

. 2024;26(11):1098612X241275270. doi:10.1177/1098612X241275270

Bailin HG, Thomas L, Levy NA. Retrospective evaluation of feline dystocia: clinicopathologic findings and neonatal outcomes in 35 cases (2009-2020). 

. 2022;24(4):344-350. doi:10.1177/1098612X211024154

Treating the condition requires an understanding of this common reproductive emergency

Managing dystocia with surgery

Jerry and Arlet Nordeen recently noticed that Tashi, their 7-year-old Shih-Tzu, was looking around aimless, and started to think something was wrong with her. Tashi then progressed to bumping into furniture and hesitating to jump, so the Nordeens brought her to a veterinary ophthalmologist, where she was diagnosed with detached retinas in both eyes, causing vision loss.

Tashi,  a 7-year-old Shih-Tzu, was one of the first dogs at UC Davis to receive a retinal reattachment surgery (Image courtesy of UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine) 

Tashi was referred to a specialist in Southern California who at the time was the only ophthalmologist in California, to perform a retinopexy, or retinal reattachment surgery. However, wanting to see if there were any options closer to home, Sonia Hallera, Arlet’s sister, suggested they look into UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine.

After reaching out to UC Davis, the family discovered that the school recently purchased a new microscope, allowing them to perform the retinal reattachment surgery, becoming the second in the state to have the ability to do so.

In 2024, the ophthalmology service at UC Davis Veterinary Hospital acquired an upgraded surgical microscope with the technology not available in many veterinary ophthalmology practices. According to UC Davis, the microscope has a back-of-the-eye viewing system that provides the surgeon with a clear and uncompromised view of the anatomical area at the back of the eye, including the retina.

 The acquisition of this microscope has made it possible for retinal attachment surgery at UC Davis for the first time.

“To our knowledge, we are the first veterinary school in the U.S. to perform retinal reattachment surgery in its teaching hospital,” said Soohyun Kim, DVM, PhD, assistant professor of clinical ophthalmology.

“Most likely, there are less than 10 private practice ophthalmologists nationwide performing the surgery. It’s extremely specialized care in veterinary medicine.”

Tashi was determined to be a good candidate for retinal reattachment surgery and after discussing the procedure and potential complications with Tashi’s owners, they all agreed this was what is best for Tashi.

Retinal reattachment surgery is the only way to repair a retinal tear and restore vision, as it secures the detached retina back into its proper position. Tashi’s tears were identified by Kim and she repositioned the retina by removing a natural gel that fills the space between the retina and lens, and then replaces it with silicone oil.

 Once Kim had Tashi’s retina in place, she used laser treatment to create scar tissue that sealed the retinal breaks.

Prompt retinal reattachment stops the progression of partial detachment and prevents further retinal damage. However, that does not complete the vision restoration process. For the light-sensitive cells to regain function, they need to be reconnected, a process that can take anywhere between a few weeks to a few months. The duration of the detachment is also critical when it comes to functional sight recovery.

Veterinary team at UC Davis using the new microscope during a surgery

the researchers collected the records of 145 dogs, 168 eyes total, that underwent retinal reattachment surgery between 2005 and 2009 and were performed by the same surgeon.

 The researchers analyzed the data they collected from the medical records, including signalment, duration of time from diagnosis of retinal detachment to surgical intervention, if prior lensectomy was performed, time from surgery to restoration of vision, and post operative complications. The team also used the collected data to analyze the effects of breed, prior lensectomy, and time from diagnosis to surgery on visual outcome, tendency for complications, and time of complication onset.

The results of the study found that in 130 dogs, 36 breeds, and 15 mixed-breed dogs were represented, were

92% of the dogs were visual after the surgery

3.8% were visual before the procedure and retained vision

96% were nonvisual before and regained vision after

8% that were nonvisual before the procedure did not regain vision

The research also stated that the most common complications from the surgery, in order, cataract development, silicone prolapse into the anterior chamber, corneal ulceration, retinal degeneration, glaucoma, and uveitis. 

Tashi recovered from the anesthesia and surgery and remained in the hospital for one night before being discharged home. For 2 months after the surgery, Tashi had several follow up appointments with the first month her eyes presenting with normal intraocular pressures and appeared open and comfortable. Despite this, she did develop some complications in her right eye about 5 weeks post-surgery.The Nordeens and Kim worked together to resolve the issue, but her owners are overall pleased with how the surgery went, with Tashi’s vision in her left eye being restored.

“She’s only 7-years-old,” Jerry concluded. “She still has a lot of good years ahead. We just couldn’t let her go blind.”

Specialized Eye Surgery Restores Dog’s Vision. News release. UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine. January 27, 2025. Accessed February 6, 2025. https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/specialized-eye-surgery-restores-dogs-vision#:~:text=This%20makes%20retinal%20reattachment%20surgery,assistant%20professor%20of%20clinical%20ophthalmology.

Steele KA, Sisler S, Gerding PA. Outcome of retinal reattachment surgery in dogs: a retrospective study of 145 cases. 

. 2012;15 Suppl 2:35-40. doi:10.1111/j.1463-5224.2012.01009.x

A recent purchase at UC Davis was used to help restore the vision of a 7-year-old Shih-Tzu

UC Davis performs its first retinopexy

We all know that dental disease is common, painful, and progressive. We also know that almost all animals have teeth. According to an analysis of data from more than 3 million pets in Banfield Pet Hospital’s network, investigators found that 73% of dogs and 64% of cats were diagnosed with dental-related issues.

 Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC, DABvP (Canine, Feline), FAVD, says these data align with other estimates that suggest 70% to 80% of dogs and cats show signs of dental disease by the age of 4.


Most veterinarians like helping a pet with dental disease. It is an immediate dopamine boost to get a broken tooth out of there when we know how much pain it has caused or to extract a severely diseased and mobile tooth (or teeth) that we know prevented the pet from chewing comfortably every day. Treating dental disease can provide immense satisfaction for the medical team as well as help
practices stay financially sound.


If you think about economics in veterinary medicine, you must consider the 3 pillars of health for a practice:

Per-client transaction (PCT): the average dollar amount generated in a single visit

Patient visits: how many patients come through your door seeking care

New clients: the number of pet owners who have never visited your practice before in a given period

These are metrics that every practice should be monitoring. A good dental program can enhance all these pillars. Let’s examine how.

A quick web search suggests that an anesthetized dental cleaning for dogs or cats can range from $170 to $350. This will vary depending on local economic factors, your choice of anesthesia, team training, and so on. It is vital to remember that dental prophylaxis is the best way to uncover other issues that are painful for the pet. We find broken teeth, diseased tooth roots, and other pathology that should be addressed while the pet is under anesthesia, if possible. However, you should not be afraid to stage needed care for another session if you are tightly booked that day or feel that additional anesthesia is not in the pet’s interest that day.

The important part is educating the client about what you see and find and making recommendations for the pet. Educating clients and recommending exceptional care is always best practice. Commonly, you will find something that needs to be addressed. You can call the client with the recommendations, and very often, they will see the value of addressing the required care under the single anesthetic episode. However, they cannot always afford the care that day, and in those cases, it is easy to create a screenshot of the dental radiograph to show and explain (if it is not already attached to your patient’s medical chart).

You can schedule discharge appointments with a veterinarian on any dental patient that had recommendations beyond basic cleaning. Enough clients will find value in the additional recommendations to increase your PCT for the procedure, and you will be increasing trust and value with that client for future visits.

If you recommend some type of dental care for every patient that comes through your door (and do not forget that study findings show that many pets need some dental care), you will increase your patient visits over time. Every wellness patient needs to have their teeth looked at. If you see something, send a recommendation and a treatment plan. Do not give up.

If you see that you gave a treatment plan last year and there was no action, mention it again. The animal needs your commitment to the best care, and the owner needs to hear it again. You have heard it before, but recommendations for needed care should be “every patient, every time,” and dentistry is no different. Over time, you will see owners following up on your recommendations, whether you made them in the exam room on a routine visit or after you found problems during dental prophylaxis.

Spread the word that you are comfortable with dental care. For example, let it be known that you have digital dental imaging and a well-trained team. You can get referrals from your local emergency hospitals because they likely do not perform any dental care. They happen across clients who have no primary veterinarian and whose pets suffer from dental trauma or broken teeth. Hospitals will happily refer to you if they feel comfortable with your care. You may even get referrals from other general practices that do not have as much equipment or the same comfort level as you.

Why wouldn’t veterinary professionals want to highlight something that helps almost all pets have less pain, slows a progressive disease, and allows pets to live a fuller life? We do! And if developing a great dental program can also make your practice more financially successful, everyone wins.

1. State of pet dental health: significant majority of US dogs and cats have oral health issues. News release. Banfield Pet Hospital. February 15, 2024. Accessed December 5, 2024. https://www.banfield.com/about-banfield/newsroom/press-releases/2024/state-of-pet-dental-health

Offering and promoting oral health services can help boost the bottom line

The economics of dental care

Jason B. Pieper, DVM, MS, DACVD, shares the #1 cause for atopic dermatitis

Treatment options for mild atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis can have multiple causes, with one particular allergy—and the most common one—having the ability to cause year-round issues. In this interview about his lecture on atopic dermatitis, presented at the 2025 Veterinary Meeting & Expo, Jason B. Pieper, DVM, MS, DACVD, assistant professor at Iowa State University, talks about the top cause for atopic dermatitis, as well as some of the other causes for this condition. Pieper also delves into the various treatment options for mild atopic dermatitis.

Below is a partial transcript which has been lightly edited for clarity:

 …It is tough when we talk about atopic dermatitis, I mean, there's a variety [of causes]. [The patient] can be allergic to, grasses, trees, weeds, molds as well.

The number one, actual one, though, is house dust mites, which is very similar to humans. So usually with them then it's a year-round problem. You know, it's not just a seasonal issue. It's a year-round [issue] and even for dogs that are mildly allergic when they're younger, as they get older, they tend to still develop allergies to house dust mites, so then they have [those] year-round kind of clinical signs, but that's definitely been the most common allergy that we find for atopic dermatitis.

When you sit there and kind of classify them on their clinical lesions, I guess usually, I base it on what we call this PVAS, or the Pruritus Visual Analog [Scale], and it’s zero to 10. Zero is not really doing anything; 10 is itching all the time, you know, uncontrollable, not even able to stop to eat. They have stopped that and will start itching. And so when I say there's a dog [that is] a 3 to 4 out of 10, that's where it’s considered mild disease. And you know, usually, then we're talking about adjunctive therapies, is the way I think of it.