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Vets treat Chihuahua with rare dwarfism condition
Pixie was diagnosed with hyposomatotropism.
Pixie weighed just 500g at six months old.

A Chihuahua with a rare dwarfism condition is making good progress after receiving growth hormone treatment at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies’ Hospital for Small Animals.

Pixie was referred to the hospital when she was six months old after her veterinary surgeon had become concerned about her growth and development.

When referred to the hospital, she weighed less than 500 grammes. She was uncoordinated, her energy levels were very low, and she had collapsed several times due to low blood sugar despite being regularly fed. Her baby teeth had also still not been replaced with adult teeth.

The veterinary team at the hospital conducted a series of scans and tests, leading to a diagnosis of hyposomatotropism (pituitary dwarfism).

Pixie was prescribed regular injections of progesterone to stimulate the production of growth hormone from her mammary glands to replace the lack of hormones from her underdeveloped pituitary gland.

After a few months of the treatment, Pixie reached a healthy weight and body condition. She was also able to better regulate her glucose levels and gained her adult teeth.

The treatment will need to be continued for the rest of Pixie’s life and, despite now being a healthy weight, she will be smaller than other Chihuahuas.

Alisdair Boag, a senior lecturer at the Royal (Dick) School and an RCVS specialist in small animal medicine, said: “Pixie is a wonderful patient; watching her grow and thrive has been a real pleasure.

“It is so rewarding to see the positive difference we can make for our patients and their owners.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced across Wales

News Story 1
 An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been introduced across Wales.

From 30 January, all bird keepers in Wales must implement strict biosecurity measures to protect poultry and captive birds. This includes a mandatory self-assessment checklist.

The Animal & Plant Health Agency has already introduced AIPZs in Scotland and England, with mandatory housing in some parts of England. The avian influenza interactive map reveals where restrictions are in place, with further information about Wales' AIPZ here

Click here for more...
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Applications open for RCVS Fellowship

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has opened applications for veterinary surgeons to join the RCVS Fellowship.

The RCVS Fellowship is a learned society which works to advance veterinary standards and promote scientific excellence.

Veterinary surgeons can enter the RCVS Fellowship through three routes, each with different criteria. This enables people with a range of expertise and experience to join the society.

The routes are: Meritorious Contributions to Clinical Practice, Meritorious Contributions to Knowledge and Meritorious Contributions to the Profession.

Applicants must share a summary of their contributions to the profession, including examples of significant works produced throughout their career. The application will then be assessed by a panel of judges against a set of criteria.

Veterinary surgeons have until 4pm on Friday, 14 March to submit applications. More information, including requirements and guidance can be found here.