An Investment in the Future of Veterinary Medicine - OVC Pet ...
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FALL 2021 / WINTER 2022
pettrust.ca
FREE COPY
THE PET MAGAZINE OF THE ONTARIO VETERINARY COLLEGE
An Investment
in the Future of
Veterinary Medicine
OVC HEALTH SCIENCES CENTRE OPENS NEW SURGERY AND
ANESTHESIA FACILITIES, MADE POSSIBLE BY OVC PET TRUST’S
FRIENDS TOGETHER FOR LONGER CAMPAIGN.
D
BEST FRIENDS
BEST FRIENDS: THE PET MAGAZINE OF THE ONTARIO VETERINARY COLLEGE FALL 2021/WINTER 2022
Published twice per year by
OVC Pet Trust.
2021 marks the 35th into research projects and equipment in
anniversary of OVC Pet many different disciplines of veterinary EDITORIAL TEAM
Trust. From the very medicine, including: cancer, cardiology, Jane Dawkins, Editor and
beginning, OVC Pet diagnostic imaging, emergency and critical Design
Trust has supported care, infectious disease, internal medicine, Ashleigh Martyn, Writer
innovations in all neurology, nutrition, ophthalmology, pain Kim Robinson, Director
aspects of pet health to management and anesthesia, surgery, the
help pets everywhere human-animal bond and much more.
CONTRIBUTORS
live longer, healthier Together with our supporters, we Katherine Galley, Editor IN THIS ISSUE:
lives. In the same way have made many advances in pet health. Lisa McLean, Contributing
that improving the lives As you’ll read in this issue of Best Friends,
of animals is a central I was proud to mark the opening of new
Writer 2 FROM THE DEAN OF THE
Karen Mantel, Proof Reader ONTARIO VETERINARY COLLEGE
tenet of everything surgery and anesthesia facilities within the
we do at the Ontario OVC Health Sciences Centre this past May. 4 FROM THE DESK OF OUR DIRECTOR
Veterinary College (OVC), The transformation of these critical clinical OVC PET TRUST
the human-animal bond spaces within our teaching hospital was BOARD 5 CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF OVC PET TRUST
has always been at the made possible by OVC Pet Trust donors and Mary Beaton, Colin
Campbell, Dr. Doreen 6 THE CATCH WITH CANNABIS: ACCIDENTAL
16
heart of OVC Pet Trust. We represents an important milestone on our POISONING AMONG DOGS IS ON THE RISE AND
Houston (Chair), Dr. Karyn OVC RESEARCHERS ARE EXPLORING WHY
honour the relationship journey to upgrade aging infrastructure in
Jones, Kim Lang,
between pets, their our hospital and teaching environments.
humans and veterinary This is just one of the many accomplish-
Dr. Jennifer Ogeer, William
Pringle, Dr. Rebecca Sterns,
AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE 8 AM I A CAT WHISPERER?
OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
caregivers through ments and goals we’ve reached over the Roland Browning Watt, 9 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SMALL ANIMAL
9
supporting healthcare, past 35 years, but our work is far from Dr. Jeff Wichtel. Honorary: SURGEON
research and education that ultimately complete. We hope you’ll stay in touch and
improve the prevention, diagnosis and connect with us as we look to the future
Roger Warren. Ex-officio:
Julie Byczynski, 14 ACCESS GRANTED: REMY’S FUND PROVIDES
IMPROVED ACCESS TO VETERINARY CARE
treatment of diseases of pets. and many more years of supporting vital Dr. Stephanie Nykamp, FOR VULNERABLE AND DISADVANTAGED
OVC Pet Trust was founded in 1986 by projects that will impact animal health for Kim Robinson, COMMUNITIES
a group of dedicated volunteers to support the better. Dr. Shayan Sharif
the work of veterinary specialists and re- Thank you to our entire OVC Pet Trust 16 AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE OF
VETERINARY MEDICINE: OVC HEALTH
searchers at the Ontario Veterinary College community for your dedication, your pas- FEEDBACK SCIENCES CENTRE OPEN NEW SURGERY AND
who were committed to advancing the sion and your commitment to making the Send letters and story ideas ANESTHESIA FACILITIES, MADE POSSIBLE BY
health and well-being of our animals – the world a better place for people and their to ovcpet@uoguelph.ca or OVC PET TRUST’S FRIENDS TOGETHER FOR
companions and family members who give pets over the past 35 years. The Ontario by mail. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SMALL LONGER CAMPAIGN
ANIMAL SURGEON
us comfort, joy and unconditional love.
Over the past 35 years, and now
Veterinary College is extremely fortunate
to benefit from your generosity. OVC PET TRUST
23 GETTING TO KNOW: DR. MELISSA MACIVER
with more than $73.5 million raised, Ontario Veterinary College
14 ACCESS GRANTED: 24 ON THE FOREFRONT OF VETERINARY
Cover image: Patient Missy. Photo credit: Scott McQuarrie, scottmcquarrie.com.
OVC Pet Trust has been fortunate to Dr. Jeff Wichtel University of Guelph REMY’S FUND
MEDICINE: BRIDGING THE SCIENCE AND
50 Stone Road MEDICINE OF CANCER RESEARCH TO BENEFIT
establish long-standing partnerships and Dean and Professor PROVIDES IMPROVED
ALL SPECIES
friendships that have fuelled our shared Ontario Veterinary College Guelph ON ACCESS TO
mission of working to improve life for our
beloved pets in many areas of health and
University of Guelph N1G 2W1
T. 519-824-4120 x 54695
VETERINARY CARE
FOR VULNERABLE 26 YOUR GIFTS AT WORK
AND DISADVANTAGED
disease. With your support, OVC Pet Trust
www.pettrust.ca
COMMUNITIES 28 SAYING GOODBYE: SPARKA’S STORY
BY SARAH BERNARDI
invests more than $500,000 each year
University of Guelph 30 SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION
6
Charitable Registration #: BY SUZI BEBER
10816 1829 RR 0001
OVC Pet Trust, founded in 1986 at learning and discovery for the health of
THE CATCH WITH 31 PETS IN MEMORY: GOODNESS AND MERCY
ABOUT the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), all species, including our own. In 2021,
CANNABIS: ACCIDENTAL
OVC
POISONING AMONG
University of Guelph, is Canada’s first
charitable fund dedicated to the health
Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranked OVC 1st
in Canada, 3rd in North America and 5th in
pettrust.ca
DOGS IS ON THE RISE AND
OVC RESEARCHERS ARE
BACK COVER
PET
FACEBOOK.COM/OVCPET
#PETTRUSTPALS
and well-being of companion animals. the world for veterinary science amongst @OVCPETTRUST EXPLORING WHY
ONTARIO VETERINARY COLLEGE
OVC is a leader in veterinary healthcare, veterinary schools worldwide.
TRUST
@ONTVETCOLLEGE
2
TO LEARN MORE OR TO DONATE VISIT WWW.PETTRUST.CA
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF OVC PET TRUST
In photo: Kim Robinson and her dog Juno.
RESEARCH
FACTS
In its first year, OVC
FROM Pet Trust awarded
THE DESK 1986
researchers at the
OVC Pet Trust was established as a way for people to memorialize and honour their pets, family and friends to Ontario Veterinary
OF OUR
fund research to either prevent or treat a number of diseases that affect companion animals. College a total of
$33,200 to fund 14
DIRECTOR
projects investigating
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS TO MODERNIZE VETERINARY CARE various areas of canine
and feline health as
I’m thrilled to share the wonderful news well as examining the
1980S
human-animal bond.
that OVC’s new surgery and anesthesia
Now, 35 years later, OVC
facilities officially opened in May 2021. Pet Trust has invested
These upgrades were made possible by OVC millions of dollars into
RADIATION
Pet Trust supporters who helped us surpass more than 710 research
Together, we are making a true difference in the lives of our THERAPY projects at OVC.
our $9-million Friends Together for Longer
campaign. The extensive redesign and trans-
beloved animals. INTRODUCED
formation of our clinical facilities at the OVC
FOR CANCER
OVC Pet Trust support over the past 35 years — with more than TREATMENT
Companion Animal Hospital will allow us to $73.5 million raised — has helped advance companion animal
2021
remain at the forefront of veterinary health A Cobalt-60 radiation therapy unit was donated to the OVC by the
health and well-being and continues to change the future of Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto with financial support from OVC
care, education and discovery for many years veterinary medicine in three major areas. Pet Trust for the physical facility and installation. Cobalt therapy, the
to come.
2012
medical use of gamma rays, was widely used beginning in the 1950s. This
The new areas provide a modern, state-of- HEALTHCARE: WE PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF was the world’s first cancer radiation treatment, producing a beam of
the-art environment for our veterinary teams gamma rays directed into the patient’s body to kill tumour tissue. The OVC UNVEILS
WHAT’S POSSIBLE NEW SURGERY
to care for our companion animal patients. unit became the first super voltage radiation therapy apparatus used in
Undeniably, they will also have a lasting im-
veterinary medicine in Canada. FIRST OF ITS KIND IN CANADA: OVC AND ANESTHESIA
From the very beginning, OVC Pet Trust has sup-
pact on the learning and development of the ported clinical innovations to help pets, everywhere,
OPENS ANIMAL CANCER CENTRE FACILITIES
OVC Pet Trust raises $13.5 million to open the
2007
In 2021, new world
future generation of veterinary professionals live longer, healthier lives. Because of OVC Pet Trust first of its kind animal cancer centre in Canada – class surgery and
who are educated here, and who will then go supporters, our state-of-the-art facilities offer ani- with a significant estate gift from the late Mona anesthesia facilities
on to treat thousands of pets in communities mals the very best in advanced, complex and Campbell, a long-time animal advocate. The opened at the OVC. New
across Canada and even around the world. critical care, as well as access to the most THE INSTITUTE centre is named in her honour. clinical spaces will
Most of all, the new facilities bring hope for innovative treatment options and novel clinical FOR COMPARATIVE allow OVC to remain
The cancer centre maximizes the quality of at the forefront of
pet owners, whose beloved companions need trials in the world. Modernization of infrastructure supports CANCER life for animals living with cancer and provides veterinary medicine,
advanced, life-saving care. We could not be
the foundation of care, allowing clinical teams to practice veteri- INVESTIGATION world-class training for veterinarians, trainees raise the standard
nary medicine in modern and technologically-advanced facilities. (ICCI) OPENS and cancer specialists. The centre emphasizes
more grateful to our incredible donors who of care and provide
partnered with us to complete this major Launched in 2007, an interdisciplinary team approach to treatment, the most advanced
EDUCATION: WE TRAIN THE FUTURE GENERATION the ICCI is devoted to which includes: medical, radiation and surgical techniques, diagnoses
endeavour. Thank you. Read more about our
2004
new surgery and anesthesia facilities in a
OF VETERINARY PROFESSIONALS AND providing comprehensive oncologists; technicians, nurses and support and treatment in
SPECIALISTS cancer treatment for staff; interns, residents and graduate and veter- Canada. These new
special feature story on page 16. companion animals and inary students; and even a clinical counsellor to facilities will create
As always, OVC Pet Trust continues to pursuing collaborative help clients make difficult decisions. The centre new collaborative
OVC Pet Trust invests in learning and education for the brightest provides access to clinical trials, state-of-the-
invest in projects that are advancing animal minds and the future generation of global experts in the veterinary
MRI FACILITY FOR research to improve both treatment spaces that
the understanding and art technology and a wealth of resources for incorporate multiple
health. From investigating a new chemother- profession. Funding supports a variety of specialty training posi- CLINICAL PATIENTS pet owners, including: chemotherapy; radiation
In 2004, a full-sized MRI, used for treatment of cancer in medical specialties
apy treatment for canine hemangiosarcoma, tions for licensed veterinarians who are pursuing advanced educa- animals and humans. The therapy delivered by a linear accelerator; immu- and enhance our ability
to exploring fluorescent imaging of the liver imaging of clinical patients and
tion to become board certified veterinary specialists. Funds raised ICCI was the first of its notherapy; a companion animal tumour sample to manage serious
applied research, was installed
in dogs undergoing gallbladder surgery, to also help to train the next generation of veterinary professionals kind in Canada, taking bank for storing biopsies for future research; illnesses that require
at the OVC, offering clinicians the
improving chronic kidney disease in cats, our in the OVC Health Sciences Centre. Each year, OVC graduates from an integrative approach examination, treatment and procedure rooms; complex surgeries or
best possible detail of images of
that combines expertise a waiting room; and a family quiet room — with treatments. Read the
researchers are at the forefront of veterinary the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program go out into the soft tissue in an animal’s body. The
the generous support of The Smiling Blue Skies
current MRI at the OVC accommo- in cancer biology and full story on page 16.
medicine. Learn more about newly-fund- world and work in communities across Ontario, Canada and around veterinary medicine. Cancer Fund and OVC Pet Trust.
ed projects to enhance companion animal the globe. dates patients such as cats, dogs
and pigs and can also provide im- The associated Mona
health and well-being in Your Gifts at Work Campbell Centre for
2021 AND BEYOND
ages of the head, neck and limbs
on page 26. RESEARCH: WE INNOVATE TO of large animals. MRI contributes Animal Cancer opened
2021 marks 35 years of OVC Pet Trust. at the OVC in 2012. Its
IMPROVE LIFE to the diagnosis and/or location of
purpose is to care for
Whether you have a long history with OVC lesions due to conditions such as
epilepsy, cancer, arthritis and vi- pets with cancer while RAISING FUNDS FOR CRITICAL CARE & SPECIALTY SERVICES
Pet Trust or you are reading Best Friends Our innovative discoveries improve life for animals. advancing clinical The expansion and creation of new spaces for critical care and specialty
sual impairments. The MRI cost $5
for the very first time, we appreciate you Scientists and researchers at OVC are on the forefront of million and is the result of 10 years research and educating services at OVC is urgent and essential to continue to help the sickest of the
being part of our community of pet owners veterinary medicine and their respective fields of exper- of planning and fundraising. Its future cancer specialists. sick, bring the medicine of tomorrow to our patient’s bedside and allow OVC to
and animal lovers. Your support of OVC Pet tise. OVC Pet Trust funds ground-breaking research and acquisition was supported by the Faculty include medical, keep pace with the modernization of health care. The renovations will: dedicate
discovery to improve the health of dogs, cats and other Canada Foundation for Innovation, surgical, and radiation space for veterinary emergency services, which previously coexisted within the
Trust fuels our shared mission of working to oncologists and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) itself; expand the ICU to a larger, new space, increasing
improve life for our beloved animals. Thank companion animals. Some of the projects our experts the Ontario Innovation Trust, and
OVC Pet Trust, which contributed collaborating veterinary capacity by 50 per cent; and create two specialty services suites for the Neurol-
you for your continued dedication to help the are investigating not only have implications for compan- pathologists.
$1.45 million. ogy and Ophthalmology teams. This expansion will cost a total of $8.36 million.
ion animals but may also have translational benefits for
pets we love, live longer, healthier lives. Learn more at www.pettrust.ca.
human health too.
Kim Robinson
Director, OVC Pet Trust ONTARIO VETERINARY COLLEGE DID YOU KNOW? Toronto businessman and philanthropist Roger Warren helped build OVC Pet Trust from the ground up and has undoubtedly influ-
Ontario Veterinary College enced its growth and success. Warren was a founding member of the OVC Pet Trust board in 1986 and has also served as board chair. Now, 35 years later, he is
University of Guelph an honourary member of the board and continues to be a generous donor and valued advisor to OVC Pet Trust. Warren gives credit to the other players involved
WWW.PETTRUST.CA in the initial formation of OVC Pet Trust, including Dr. Ole Nielson (OVC Dean 1985 - 1994), Dr. Alan Meek (OVC Dean 1994 - 2005) and Wayne McDonell (Medical
Director of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, now known as the OVC Health Sciences Centre).
4 5
ACCIDENTAL POISONING AMONG DOGS IS ON THE RISE
AND OVC RESEARCHERS ARE EXPLORING WHY HOW TO
AVOID
POISONING
Cannabis use is rising in popularity thanks depend on factors such as the dose and YOUR PET
to more relaxed public policy in regions size of the dog, and the effects can be quite
across North America. But where there’s distressing for the dog and the owner.” “People who use cannabis
“weed,” there’s a way – for dogs to become Pearl says that unlike other types of recreationally need to
accidentally poisoned. drugs such as opioids, there is no reversal safeguard their supply
A new first-of-its-kind research study agent for a dog that has consumed canna- properly to make sure
from the University of Guelph states that bis. Veterinary clinics can provide support- their dog, and any other
between 2009 and 2014, in locations across ive care, based on clinical presentation of vulnerable member of the
the U.S. where cannabis legislation became the patient with cannibis toxicity. household, doesn’t have
more lenient, there was an increase in access to chew or eat it,”
cannabis poisoning cases among dogs. It
is possible that the situation is similar in
SOCIOECONOMIC says Howard-Azzeh. He
adds that edible products
Canada, where cannabis products have FACTORS such as brownies may be
been legalized and more widely available particularly tempting for
since October 2018. Howard-Azzeh and Pearl worked with a dog.
“It’s statistically significant that as data from AnTox, a veterinary database Pearl says a combina-
penalties for use and possession of can- that stores comprehensive clinical ani- tion of two toxins in an
nabis were reduced in various regions, mal toxicology data related to calls to the edible product – such as
there was also an increase in cannabis Animal Poison Control Centre (APCC) of chocolate and cannabis
poisoning calls in dogs,” says Mohammad the American Society for the Prevention – can complicate health
Howard-Azzeh, a PhD candidate who is the of Cruelty to Animals. They categorized concerns even further
study’s lead author. data into three levels: from states that had and add to the animal’s
legal cannabis access, states where access distress. But home access
HOW MUCH IS TOO was restricted except for medical use, and
states where access was fully restricted.
is not the only culprit.
“We also have to be
MUCH? The study also looked at socioeconomic aware that people who
factors, and factors relating to the dogs at smoke cannabis in public
Cannabis products containing THC – the time. Accidental poisoning was more areas such as parks may
the psychoactive ingredient that produces common in counties with high income leave their butts behind,
the “high” effect in humans – can be toxic variability and in urban, rather than rural, and there’s a risk of a
to dogs. Knowing how much THC an an- areas. Calls about accidental cannabis poi- dog picking it up,” says
imal has been exposed to after accidental soning more commonly related to smaller, Howard-Azzeh. “Humans
ingestion can be difficult for veterinarians male and intact (not neutered or spayed) need to be aware of the
to determine from owner reports. dogs. growing access to drugs
“When a dog consumes products with “The data shows that the risk of can- in our environment so
THC, it can lead to a variety of problems nabinoid poisoning occurring in a dog de- we can limit accidental
including a rapid heart rate, vomiting pends somewhat on its environment,” says exposures.”
Photo credit: Istock.com/Chalabala
and even seizures,” says Dr. David Pearl, a Howard-Azzeh. “It also shows that policies
veterinarian and professor in the Ontario that seem to relate only to humans can
Veterinary College’s (OVC) Department have a broader impact, and there is a need
of Population Medicine. “The symptoms to bring more awareness to the issue.”
This research was funded by an NSERC Discovery Grant awarded to Dr. David Pearl.
6 7
cat whisperer?
In photo: Dr.
Brigitte Brisson
Am I a
performs surgery
in the new
facilities at the
Ontario Veterinary
College. Photo
credit Spencer
McMillan.
COULD YOU IDENTIFY A CAT’S MOOD THROUGH ITS FACIAL EXPRESSIONS?
If you’ve ever tried to interpret “Interestingly, being a cat
how your pet cat is feeling, owner or cat lover (93 per cent
you’re not alone. This mystery of people who did the survey
of feline mood is what mo- had lived with a cat as an adult)
tivated University of Guelph did not help participants better
researcher Dr. Georgia Mason read cats’ facial expressions,”
to investigate whether people Mason explains. “Our study
can accurately identify how cats revealed that professional veter-
are feeling based on their facial inary experience, not personal
expressions, a topic that has experience or feelings, was a key
attracted very little research in to success and in general, people
the scientific community until were better at reading cats in a
recently. After years of speculat- positive situation compared to a
ing, she’s been able to inter- negative one,” she adds.
pret her three cats’ facial cues, This study may open the
a day in the life of a
Mason wanted to scientifically door to explore exactly how cats’
put others’ ability to decode cat faces reveal their emotional
expressions to the test. states and allow for the devel-
Small Animal Surgeon
While research has shown opment of tools that would help
many animals like mice, rats, more people become better at
pigs, horses and rabbits have understanding them.
strikingly similar facial expres- “Cats are sending us subtle
sions when they are in pain, signals that a lot of us likely
minimal investigation has been miss, and having the skills to
The operating room (OR) is a magical place. value of mentorship and hands-on learning is pressure and often difficult conditions. Veteri-
done on the topic of pet cats, accurately interpret how they’re
a creature with a well-known feeling might mean we’re also There’s an exquisiteness about it that’s captivat- vital for trainees working towards a career or nary surgeons require intricate attention-to-de-
reputation of being mysterious able to better understand their ing and invigorating for a visitor experiencing it specialization in veterinary medicine. tail, exceptional manual dexterity, and quick
and difficult to decipher. needs and preferences both at for the first time. It’s messy, yet sterile. Tranquil, Welcome to the world of small animal and efficient problem-solving skills. It also takes
Mason collaborated with home and during veterinary yet nerve-wracking. Serene, yet intimidating. surgery at the OVC Health Sciences Centre (OVC an abundance of stamina and resilience to per-
OVC professor Lee Niel, and care,” says Niel, adding that we Bright lights and beeping monitors take over HSC). Join us as we go behind the scenes for a form complex procedures on critical patients in
postdoctoral researchers Lauren know from previous research the senses. One can appreciate the complexity day in the life of a companion animal surgeon in a demanding back-to-back schedule, and years
Dawson and Jenna Cheal, to that cats are taken to the veteri-
develop an online survey where narian less often than dogs and
– and beauty – of the fine balance between the James Slaight Advanced Surgical Complex, of advanced training including an internship
more than 11,000 participants are handled differently during life and death here. At the same time there’s the new home of OVC’s Surgery Service. The and residency after veterinary school.
watched short video clips of exams. an overpowering sense of security and comfort new space was made possible by a $2.5-million If surgery was a sport, it would be an
close-up cat faces as they ex- The researchers hope that that fills the space. This is where the fixers, the gift from Toronto philanthropist Emmanuelle ultramarathon. The long hours, minimal breaks
perienced various positive and one day we will be able to iden- menders, the healers and the helpers work. Gattuso, part of OVC’s new $9-million facility and fierce meticulousness are overwhelming.
negative situations. tify specific signs and facial cues Dr. Brigitte Brisson is one of the fixers improvements. The complex opened its doors The flurry of activity inside and outside the
The study revealed most to look for to assess positive and
participants were not success- negative welfare in cats. In the
and there’s a swiftness, a powerful energy, a in May 2021; it contains eight surgical suites, operating room is never-ending and at times,
ful at judging whether a facial same way posters in veterinary purposeful precision that’s unparalleled in her a significant infrastructure upgrade from the grueling, even for the most seasoned practi-
expression was “positive” or hospital settings depict body operating room. Brisson is a board-certified three suites in the old operating spaces that tioners. The patience, precision and persever-
“negative.” However, partici- condition scoring to inform small animal surgeon and has worked in clinical were originally built in the 1950s. The Surgery ance required to succeed in this specialty is
pants were more likely to do about healthy weight, maybe practice for more than 25 years. Clinical Service includes two components at the infinite. It’s a team effort and everyone’s in it for
well on the survey if they were one day we will have something Many OVC faculty like Dr. Brisson are not OVC Companion Animal Hospital: Soft Tissue one reason: to help animals.
To test your own a woman, a young millennial or similar for facial expressions.
cat-reading abilities, only clinicians but are researchers too – scien- Service and Orthopedic Service. Together, these The anticipated flow of the day is mapped
a veterinary professional. Of “Ultimately having the abil-
join the more than the thousands of participants, 13 ity to understand feline facial tists who are in pursuit of new findings, new two services offer a full range of surgical proce- out on a colour-coded schedule displayed on a
400,000 people per cent achieved an “excellent” cues can help both pet owners learnings and new answers to help manage dures, including minimally invasive and inter- digital screen positioned at the central nurses’
who have taken score by correctly identifying and veterinary staff improve the health and disease in pets in their respective ventional procedures, abdominal and thoracic station. The planned procedures and cases are
between 15 and 19 of the 20 health and welfare of cats,” says area of expertise, which sometimes even lead surgery, oncologic and reconstructive surgery, plotted in advance as much as possible. In a
Photo credit: Istock.com/Sensorspot
the research team’s
videos they viewed. Mason. to helping people too. They’re also delivering cardiovascular surgery and neurosurgery. hospital that delivers the most complex care to
interactive quiz:
care in a teaching hospital; imparting knowl- Surgery is both an art and a science, and the most complex patients, even the best laid
uoguel.ph/catfacequiz DR. GEORGIA MASON IS THE DIRECTOR OF THE CAMPBELL CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF ANIMAL WEL-
FARE (CCSAW) AT THE UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH AND A PROFESSOR IN THE COLLEGE OF BIOLOGICAL
edge, clinical skills and inspiration to the future surgeons are experts at their craft. They have a plans must be overturned to accommodate un-
SCIENCE’S DEPARTMENT OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY. generation of veterinary professionals, which is skillset that allows them to perform advanced predictable situations, occurrences that happen
MASON AND NIEL’S STUDY HAS BEEN FEATURED IN NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL MEDIA OUTLETS compelling to observe in Dr. Brisson’s OR. The lifesaving medical interventions under intense most days on OVC’s clinic floor.
INCLUDING NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, THE WASHINGTON POST, DAILY MAIL, REAL TIME WITH BILL MAHER,
8 CBC, CTV AND MORE. 9
In photos: OVC
patients Archie
(top right) and
Russell (bottom
right) are prepared
for surgery in the
AFTERNOON - DAY ONE Kim and Stu Lang
Anesthsia and
Pain Management
The surgical aseptic technique is a collection of practices that Unit. Photo credit:
Ashleigh Martyn.
help protect patient incisions from contamination. The sterile
field in the OR is a sacred space – it is the area in the OR that
is free from disease-causing bacteria or microorganisms. All
supplies, equipment and instruments in the surgical field are
pristine, meticulously cleaned and sterilized. It’s of utmost im-
portance to maintain the sterile field throughout any procedure
and this is strictly enforced in each and every OR.
Brisson’s next case is a dog named Peanut who will undergo
a ventral slot surgery for a herniated disc in his neck. In another
OR, Dr. Stine is operating on a dog named Lucy. As the team
works, there is a continuous shifting in the schedule to effective-
ly triage the urgent cases that have arrived today. This involves
a high level of coordination across the entire OVC HSC. Like a
domino effect, changes in the surgical team’s caseload mean
changes for the Anesthesia Service, the Intensive Care Unit and
the Diagnostic Imaging Service – and potentially other specialty
areas too. Specialists are consulted to determine what order the
next two surgeries will be in and how best to coordinate seda-
tion and administration of anesthetic drugs to maximize patient
comfort. After about an hour in the OR with Peanut, the surgery
is a success and without missing a beat, Brisson heads right into
Stine’s spinal surgery with Lucy. PATIENT ARCHIE
Brisson shares research with the team as she works, quizzing
In photo: Inside the OVC Health
Sciences Centre, Dr. Brigitte Brisson and teaching in each procedure as the day unfolds. “What do you
and her team perform surgery in
the James Slaight Advanced Surgical
think? What do you see? How do we best proceed?”
Complex. Photo credit: Spencer
McMillan, spencermcm.com.
Next up is Archie, whose bilateral sialocele surgery was
delayed by the day’s emergencies. This condition occurs when a
collection of saliva leaks from a damaged salivary gland or duct PATIENT RUSSELL
and accumulates in the tissues that become inflamed. While
Archie is prepped, Brisson takes a five-minute break for a late
lunch and then scrubs into surgery. Like a dance, the ebb and
MORNING - DAY ONE technique that uses real-time X-ray technology to visualize the inside
of the body. “Everyone’s wearing lead?” Brisson asks. Wearing lead per-
flow of the day is well underway. Archie is still in surgery with
Brisson as Lucy wakes up in anesthesia recovery and is moved to
Clinic duties are divided by appointment days and surgery days. Today sonal protective equipment (PPE) reduces exposure of ionizing radiation the ICU, and a Golden Retriever named Russell is prepared by the
will be dedicated to surgery. Brisson is joined on clinics this week by two during the procedure. anesthesia team for surgery with Stine.
residents: Drs. Samantha Stine and Philippe Larose. Two rotating interns After an hour in the OR, it becomes clear that the previously placed It’s clear surgeons are used to running on adrenaline. Endur-
are also on the service this week: Drs. Adam Quinlan and Isabela Del stent and coils prevent the passage of the catheter for safe delivery of ance, tenacity and passion are key to thrive in this profession.
Carpio, both recent veterinary school graduates. For many weeks of the additional coils. The only option would be an approach through the
academic year, the team is joined by 6 to 8 fourth year DVM students on spleen, something the team would need to discuss with Millie’s parents. EVENING - DAY ONE
their surgery rotation – a key component to their final year of clinical “Thanks everybody – let’s close”, Brisson says. She provides guidance on
training in vet school – but there are no students on rotation this week. Time seems to stand still in the OR.
Millie’s recovery in the OVC Intensive Care Unit (ICU), advising the team
Four surgeries in dog patients have been scheduled for the hours As a surgeon, you can’t be afraid to (literally and figuratively)
to ensure pressure is applied on the incision along Millie’s neck while
ahead: an intrahepatic shunt (an abnormal vessel in the liver that get your hands dirty.
the tube that has helped her breathe during surgery is removed.
bypasses blood from the intestines), a ventral slot (a common surgical As the evening is underway, Archie is in the home stretch
Then, after a quick review of a scan of another patient in the duty
procedure to relieve disc herniation in the spine), a bilateral siaload- of his surgery, and the team notes that it ended up being a bit
office, Brisson heads to a quiet exam room to call Millie’s owner and
enectomy (to remove damaged salivary glands / ducts) and a wound more involved than they’d initially anticipated. This is a common
provide an update. Brisson uses analogies to describe what’s happening
closure in a patient with an antibiotic-resistant infection. situation in surgery. Surgeons rely on diagnostic imaging to pre-
in Millie’s body and the options available for Millie’s people to explore;
Millie, a four-year-old Labrador Retriever is induced by the anes- pare and plan their best course of action – but sometimes once
how these options could impact her quality of life; how to move
thesia team and surgically prepared for Dr. Brisson and her team. The they’re inside, they must adapt and change strategies quickly.
forward; and what happens to most dogs with Millie’s condition. “We’ll
interventional procedure will involve fluoroscopy, a medical imaging The team flushes Archie’s wound with sterile saline and inserts a
take good care of her – we promise,” Brisson smiles.
drain as the surgery wraps up.
10 11
In photo: Patient
In photo: Dr. Brigitte Lucy recovers from
PATIENT LUCY
Brisson performs spinal surgery.
an interventional Photo credit:
procedure. Photo credit: Ashleigh Martyn.
Spencer McMillan,
spencermcm.com.
mass on his spleen and in need of surgery as soon as possible.
Adjustments are made to the schedule and the team adapts.
Brisson spends 21 weeks of the year on clinics – it’s just one of
the ways she fulfills her teaching duties as a professor in the
Department of Clinical Studies at OVC. She also lectures and in-
structs labs for student veterinarians in addition to her research
and service responsibilities. As a young adult, Brisson considered
veterinary medicine and pediatric neurosurgery as potential
career paths. It was her love for animals, the variety of conditions
and species and the diversity of diseases, that ultimately drew
her to veterinary medicine.
The Diagnostic Imaging team, who also reviewed the
previously performed CT scan, confirms that Tupac’s cancer has
not spread, and surgery is set to proceed. Tupac has one of the
biggest sternal tumours Brisson has ever attempted to remove in
a cat. Her goal is to excise the entire tumour along with a portion
of the sternum and several ribs. A curative approach is the goal
but it is not always possible depending on the individual case.
Given the size of the tumour and its location, clean margins are
unlikely to be achieved for Tupac but his owners want to give
him a chance.
“We’ve got you,” Brisson whispers to Tupac, as she dons her
gown and gloves up.
After an almost two-hour surgery, Brisson and her team
successfully resect the entire tumour and save most areas in the
surrounding tissue in the process, allowing for complete closure
of the large defect along the chest and abdomen.
Triage consults with Brisson about two other emergency
cases as the afternoon flies by.
The rest of the evening is jam-packed: telephone calls to update follow-up calls with owners are made and discharge plans are under- EVENING - DAY TWO
owners are made; checks and physical exams are underway in the ICU way. By mid-morning, Cashew the cat, a patient with an obstructed Brisson calls Tupac’s owner to share the good news and guides
on admitted and recovering patients; there is case review, paperwork ureter (a blockage in the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the intern Dr. Quinlan on Millie’s discharge paperwork. Buddy, who
and preparation for the next day. Patients who are recovering from bladder), is undergoing a subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) which has had his spleen removed, is waking up and is transferred to
surgery typically stay in the ICU for approximately 24 hours and are will restore the flow of urine from the kidney to the bladder through a the ICU. Dr. Larose checks on Rex and Goose, two of his patients
monitored 24/7 by the Emergency and Critical Care team. man-made tube, and provide immense relief for Cashew, who has been recovering from surgery earlier in the week. Rounds are under-
Brisson stops to speak with Larose, one of her residents, about the developing renal failure. way. It’s looking like it’ll be a late night tonight – Brisson plans
research component of his residency and an upcoming surgery the Shortly before lunch, Cashew’s surgery is wrapping up; Brisson says to make a quick trip home to see her family and then head back
following week that will be part of this study: an OVC Pet Trust-support- it was the outcome she’d hoped for. She takes off her lead equipment to the hospital in the late evening for an emergency referral – a
ed project that is investigating how to improve patient outcomes and and dosimeter, a device worn by all during fluoroscopic procedures, and very long day, with surgery expected into the early morning
surgeon visualization in dogs who undergo laparoscopic gall bladder checks in on Tupac, a cat cancer patient, in the anesthesia prep room. hours. It’s all in a day’s work for her and her team.
removal surgery with the use of fluorescent imaging of the liver. It is a
novel imaging procedure in human and veterinary medicine and this AFTERNOON - DAY TWO Even in the brief moments of respite, while expertly navigat-
ing the challenges of a typical day in clinics, Brisson enthusiasti-
research is the first of its kind in dogs. cally champions the importance of teaching, mentorship and in-
Like a well-oiled machine, the surgery support team work in the
MORNING - DAY TWO background. They continuously stock inventory, track patient billing,
perform cleaning and sterilization, and flip ORs so they are ready for the
spiring future medical professionals and veterinary leaders. “It’s
incredibly rewarding to see our students, interns and residents
The clinical training required to become a veterinary surgeon is rigorous next procedure. grow and progress through their surgery training,” says Brisson.
and learning occurs everywhere on the clinic floor of OVC’s teaching Chest radiographs, also known as X-rays, have been ordered for “The variety of cases and the challenges each day brings is why I
hospital. Tupac – if his cancer has spread to his lungs, surgery will not move love being a surgeon. It is truly a privilege to work with my OVC
Early mornings involve rounds, case discussion and teaching. The forward. ICU clinician Dr. Xui Ting Yiew pops in to discuss Cashew’s care colleagues who all share a common goal of solving problems and
team follows up on their hospitalized patients – Millie, Peanut, Lucy, and recovery plan with Brisson. At the same time, the triage technician helping pets and their families.”
In photo: Dr.
Brigitte Brisson
examines cat
PATIENT TUPAC
Archie and Russell – who underwent surgery the day before. Morning inquiries about Buddy, an oncology patient at the cancer centre with a patient, Tupac’s
radiographs in the
operating room.
Photo credit:
12 Ashleigh Martyn. 13
The human-animal bond is critical nities where OVC has established but will be critical in
to the health of many individuals, relationships and has done pro helping students to
families and communities. Accord- bono work in the past. understand incremen-
ing to the Canadian Animal Health The fund will be used for medi- tal care.
Institute, it is estimated that more cal expenses beyond basic pre- “Remy’s Fund will
than half of Canadians share their ventive care. Dr. Shane Bateman, do a lot of good work
life with a pet. interim director of CHPP says, in these communities,
Each year, countless people “We are still in the early days of and practical learn-
cannot afford to pay for basic vet- establishing this fund, but for now ing at this level is
erinary care. This financial barrier it will be devoted to supporting the profoundly engaging
can lead to poor health outcomes medical expenses of animals that and formative for stu-
for pets and the people who care have a good prognosis for one-time dents,” says Bateman.
for them. Historically, veterinary treatments that do not require
education has not focused on
addressing this social inequity.
ongoing or chronic care. We want
to make choices that allow for as
INSPIRE +
The Ontario Veterinary College many happy outcomes as possible.” CATALYZE
(OVC) and many community-based
veterinarians are addressing these
Remy’s Fund has been put to
work rather quickly during the
POSITIVE
and other social justice issues pandemic. “When a client contacts CHANGE
with a goal of creating compelling, us from a community where we
sustainable and equitable ways to are already providing outreach ser- In addition to Indig-
improve access to care, including vices, we have been able to triage enous communities,
providing subsidies for treatment the situation virtually. If we feel Remy’s Fund will play
for pets of qualified clients. the patient needs specialized care an important role in
In 2019, long-time OVC and the family can get them to a supporting pets of
supporters Kim and Stu Lang nearby clinic, we provide financial families and indi-
kick-started Remy’s Fund with a support to qualified pets who meet viduals experiencing
$1-million endowment donation. the established criteria for patient poverty or trauma.
A program of OVC Pet Trust, the eligibility.” “For a person
fund is named in memory of the who has experienced
Lang’s beloved dog Remy, a yellow
Labrador Retriever they rescued.
CARE FOR PETS trauma or violence by
other humans, pets
Two years later, the care Remy + EXPERIENTIAL can be an important,
received at OVC saved her life.
Remy’s Fund is part of a larger
LEARNING FOR loving, unconditional
relationship in their
gift to create the $11 million Kim STUDENTS life,” says Bateman.
and Stu Lang Community Health- “Pets are critical to a
care Partnership Program (CHPP), The CHPP project supports teams person’s welfare and
which is aimed at making veter- of student veterinarians to provide mental health, espe-
inary care more affordable and in-community preventive care cially when other areas of their life
accessible for underserved com- such as spay and neuter proce- are unstable.”
munities, including Indigenous dures and vaccinations. When the Bateman is deeply grateful to
communities as well as individuals team encounters patients who Kim and Stu Lang for their vision
who are experiencing poverty or need additional care, or pets fall to create CHPP.
housing insecurity. ill in between visits, then Remy’s “This program will allow OVC
Fund will be utilized to support to be a leader in understanding
HAPPY those families using a new model how best to demonstrate the im-
Illustration of Kim and Stu Lang’s dog, Remy, by Jane Dawkins.
called incremental care, which pact that providing veterinary care
OUTCOMES involves critically assessing the and improving animal health can
WANTED patient and prioritizing diagnos-
tics and treatments that match
ultimately have on human health
and the health of the community,”
the client’s resources or budget. he says. “Most important, CHPP
Since the CHPP was announced in
Bateman expects that within three will inspire and catalyze positive
2019, OVC leaders have created a
years, once the CHPP curriculum change in the veterinary profes-
set of initial guidelines for how
changes – which will include new sion, arming the next generation
Exploring the possibilities of comparative oncology Remy’s Fund will be managed,
clinical rotations and increased of veterinarians with confidence,
which will expand in the years to
Multi-centre clinical trial investigates vaccine for dogs with come as the fund grows through
experiential learning opportunities cultural competence and leader-
bone cancer; findings may hold promise for human cancers. further donations. The fund is
– are implemented at OVC, Remy’s ship skills to serve their communi-
Fund will not only support fam- ties and ultimately make the world
currently directed toward support-
ilies needing extra medical care, a better place.”
ing pets and families from commu-
To give to Remy's Fund visit pettrust.ca/donate.
14 15
HOW WE IMPROVE model of care as its team treats the most
complex of cases and sickest of patients.
LIFE: LONGER, “As one can imagine, the challenges of
HEALTHIER LIVES executing intricate construction projects
FOR PETS within an operational and fully function-
ing tertiary care hospital are complex,”
The halls of the Ontario Veterinary Col- says Dr. Stephanie Nykamp, Associate
lege’s (OVC) Companion Animal Hospital Dean, Clinical Program and renovation
look a bit different these days. With the project manager. “The new facilities pro-
recent completion of a long-awaited vide a more comfortable and functional
capital improvement project within the setting for staff, as well as an efficient
hospital’s surgery and anesthesia facili- and modern environment with the latest
ties, members of the clinical team move tools and technology for our veterinary
seamlessly through their tasks. The team teams to practice, train and care for com-
delivers the world-class care and ad- panion animals at OVC.”
vanced treatment options OVC is known
for —
now in a brighter, more spacious A LASTING GLOBAL
environment that has been thoughtfully IMPACT
designed to prioritize patient comfort and
recovery. Made possible with the support OVC Dean Dr. Jeff Wichtel says investing
of OVC Pet Trust’s Friends Together for in infrastructure upgrades are critical
Longer campaign, which launched in to advance the organization’s strategic
2015 and surpassed its $9-million goal, priorities and are vital to maintaining its
these new facilities will allow OVC to status as an accredited veterinary college
remain at the forefront of veterinary care, now and into the future. This modern-
education, training, research and inno- ization will ensure OVC remains at the
vation. Most importantly, they will allow forefront of veterinary education and
patients to experience less pain, recover practice in the delivery of its Doctor of
more quickly and return home faster to
An Investment
Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program and
their families where they belong. specialized graduate student training pro-
The new facilities, which opened in grams, and through advances in scientific
May 2021, are starting to feel lived-in. discovery and care. In 2021, OVC ranked
Teams bustle about in their respective first in Canada and fifth in the world for
in the Future of
areas with the constant, low thrum of veterinary science in a global ranking of
medical equipment and monitors serving veterinary schools.
as a reassuring soundtrack to their daily “OVC has long been a leader in veter-
tasks. The work is demanding and the inary discovery that pushes the boundar-
Veterinary Medicine
days are long; but there’s a feeling of ies of innovation in pet care to improve
Photo credit: Scott McQuarrie, scottmcquarrie.com.
freshness; a newness that’s invigorating. the prevention, diagnosis and treatment
The updated space is physically impres- of diseases in companion animals,” says
sive and remarkable in scale, but one still Wichtel. “These new facilities will have
sees, hears and feels a familiar, soothing a lasting impact on the training and
energy as the hospital’s dedicated team development of the future generation of
delivers exceptional care to each and ev-
OVC HEALTH SCIENCES CENTRE OPENS NEW SURGERY AND ery patient that comes through its doors.
veterinary professionals who will go on to
treat thousands of pets in communities
ANESTHESIA FACILITIES, MADE POSSIBLE BY OVC PET TRUST’S FRIENDS A comforting embrace; a calm reassur- across Canada and around the world,”
TOGETHER FOR LONGER CAMPAIGN ance; a compassionate word of encourage- he adds.
ment – these are the hallmarks of OVC’s
16 17
MEET SOME OF
THE FIRST PATIENTS
TREATED IN THE
NEW OVC FACILITIES
FENWAY
Fenway, a 13-year-old Golden Retriever, experi-
enced an episode of collapse in early May this
year. Tests revealed pericardial effusion, the
buildup of extra fluid in the space around the
heart. Another scan revealed masses on Fen-
way’s spleen, a nodule on the adrenal gland and
a mass on the liver. After being referred to the
OVC Oncology Service for evaluation and to
discuss options for his care, he was referred to
the Surgery team for further staging and surgical
intervention. Fenway was admitted to the hospi-
tal in June and underwent general anesthesia for
more diagnostic imaging tests. After diagnosis,
Fenway returned to OVC for a laparoscopic-as-
sisted splenectomy, the surgical removal of the
spleen, and liver biopsies in the new Minimal-
ly Invasive Procedures Suite. The OVC team
performed a video-assisted, minimally invasive
surgery to evaluate the mass on Fenway’s heart
along with a pericardectomy, which involved
the surgical removal of the sac around the
heart. Fenway did well in surgery and recovered
smoothly from anesthesia. Soon, he will go back
Photo credit: Scott McQuarrie, scottmcquarrie.com.
home with his family in Waterloo. Biopsies tak-
en during surgery confirm Fenway’s diagnosis:
hemangiosarcoma, a type of canine cancer that
targets blood vessels. Fenway’s owners, Dean
Cox and Kimberly Dubblestein, says he’s grateful
for the hope he’s experienced through OVC:
“Fenway is battling a devastatingly serious dis-
ease, but I know he’s receiving the best care and
maintaining the greatest quality of life through
the expertise of his care team at the OVC.”
AN INVESTMENT IN colleagues take their places in one clients, dedicated referring veter- MODERNIZATION constantly monitors physiological in the anesthesia prep room. Sin-
of the new operating rooms (OR) inary hospitals and alumni who parameters—including breathing, clair reviews Fenway’s anesthetic
THE MEDICINE OF to treat today’s patient, they turn helped make the new facilities
FOR EFFICIENCY heart rate, blood pressure and protocols with her team. She goes
TOMORROW their laser-like focus to the animal come to life through OVC Pet AND INNOVATION body temperature—before, during on to explain that animals, like
on the table. Not only is Brisson Trust’s $9-million campaign. Bris- and after the patient’s procedure. people, undergo anesthesia for sur-
The new medical spaces have been delivering lifesaving, advanced son reflects that during her time Comfort reigns supreme in the The standard of care is not that gery. The team works to minimize
a long time coming. care – she’s also helping to lay the at OVC she has personally been a Kim and Stu Lang Anesthesia and different between animals at OVC pain, discomfort and stress for each
Where the old surgery facili- foundation for the comprehensive part of, or witnessed her colleagues Pain Management Unit and the and humans. Human health-grade individual patient. It is also used
ties had just three surgical suites, care OVC’s graduating students improve the standards of care they John and Jean Waller Anesthesia monitors and equipment line the for diagnostic imaging procedures
the new James Slaight Advanced from the DVM program and spe- implement to help their patients Recovery Room. new spaces; the team performs to keep the patient still, pain-free
Surgical Complex now holds eight. cialists-in-training will go on to and teach their students. “The new Much like a central subway epidurals, places catheters and and relaxed in order to properly
The complex is also home to the provide to the patients of tomor- clinical spaces are an investment in station during rush hour, the measures advanced parameters in assess their medical condition.
Lindy Barrow Minimally Invasive row. The OR has a dual purpose the future of veterinary medicine Anesthesia and Pain Management patients. Sinclair says she couldn’t
Procedures (MIP) Suite, a first of within a teaching hospital: saving that will ultimately help pets – Service is a main hub at the OVC “We have a lot of patients that accomplish the research she’s pur-
its kind at a veterinary teaching lives and providing immersive whether they are physically treated Health Sciences Centre. Patients are very sick. In critical and com- sued throughout her career without
school in Canada. training environments for future at OVC or by one of our graduates from many clinical services pass plex cases, that can be very chal- the support of OVC Pet Trust; she’s
Board-certified veterinary sur- veterinarians and specialists. who has been educated in this through this unit, accompanied by lenging,” says veterinary anesthe- constantly looking for ways to en-
geon Dr. Brigitte Brisson prepares Veterinarians-in-training, new facility – live longer, healthier a member of the anesthesia team. siologist Dr. Melissa Sinclair as she hance patient safety and minimize
to scrub into a spinal surgery as she patients and pet owners and lovers lives,” she says. They are prepared, induced and rests a caring hand on Fenway, a the undesirable effects of drugs
reviews the procedure with one of alike owe a debt of gratitude to the wake up from anesthesia and seda- 13-year-old Golden Retriever, as her in her sick patients (anesthetic
her residents. As Brisson and her more than 1,600 donors, grateful tion in these spaces. The care team team prepares the dog for surgery medications can have side effects
18 19MEET SOME OF
THE FIRST PATIENTS
TREATED IN THE
NEW OVC FACILITIES
on the heart and the lungs). OPTIMIZATION TAKE A LOOK
Sinclair views the new facili-
ties as a true transformation
OF CLINICAL BEHIND THE
in improving patient comfort SPACES SCENES
and recovery. As medicine
continuously evolves and the The specialty of internal med- Hundreds of types of routine
service is busier than ever, the icine often involves the use and advanced procedures
new spaces allow Sinclair and of non-surgical techniques to occur in OVC’s new facilities.
her team to meet the needs of diagnose and treat acute and Patients are referred by their
their patients without being chronic disorders or illnesses family veterinarian to the
held back by older hospital that may involve multiple Surgery and Internal Medi-
infrastructure. The new an- organ systems. One of the spe- cine Services. Surgeries from
esthesiology spaces are larger cialized and complex diagnostic a number of other specialty
and brighter, with a quiet and techniques the OVC Medicine services are performed here by
dedicated area for patients Service commonly performs ophthalmology, neurology, car-
to recover and wake up from is endoscopy, a minimally diology and avian and exotics
anesthesia, separate from the invasive procedure used to ex- specialists.
noisier induction area – a dis- plore and visualize the inside The space, like a human
tinct improvement for patient of the body. Endoscopy was hospital, is a multi-faceted
comfort and recovery in dogs, historically performed at OVC facility where integrated care
cats and other companion in a small room within the old is delivered on a daily basis.
animals. anesthesia unit. Upgrades have It is also home to a team of
Fenway is wheeled on a gur- created the new Stone Endos- interprofessional veterinary
ney into the new surgical com- copy Unit. This new unit was health care workers who
plex by a Registered Veterinary named in honour of former provide patient care, including
Technician (RVT), entering the OVC Dean and surgeon Dr. clinicians and board certified
new MIP suite as small animal Elizabeth Stone, and it includes specialists, technicians, nurses
surgeon Dr. Ameet Singh briefs two massive rooms dedicated and support staff, residents,
his team on the surgical plan to endoscopic procedures and interns, trainees and students.
and the outcomes he hopes to equipment.
achieve. Endoscopy allows internists
to identify issues, and some-
IT’S ALL ABOUT
Surgical oncologist Dr.
Michelle Oblak reflects on her times that involves consulting THE HUMAN-
last surgery in the old facilities with other services on the na- ANIMAL BOND
as bittersweet and remembers ture of a specific illness or con-
the OR where she grew from dition in their patient. Internal OVC Pet Trust Director Kim
an undergraduate student medicine team members are Robinson is grateful for the
to a veterinarian, to a senior problem solvers and detectives, generosity and support of the
resident, to faculty; but she has conducting detailed investi- many individuals who helped
immense gratitude for the do- gations to diagnose and help turn an early vision into a
nors who made the new facili- their patients. The complexity reality, and for the difference
ties a reality. She adds that the of arriving at a treatment plan the new spaces will make in
old facilities, built in the 1950s, involves differential diagnoses, the lives of thousands of pets
had become crowded and dated a nuanced task aimed at distin- and their people. A dog owner
with the increased surgical guishing one particular disease and animal advocate, Robin-
caseload OVC has experienced or condition from others that son is proud to advance pet
over the past five to 10 years. present similar clinical signs health and well-being through
While she and her colleagues that is an important part of OVC Pet Trust’s core mission
never let an older environment clinical reasoning and deci- of helping to improve life for
compromise the level of care sion-making in the health care pets and supporting the bond
profession. between people and animals.
they were able to provide or
MIRA
Photo credit: Scott McQuarrie, scottmcquarrie.com.
hold them back from innovat- Scopings performed in the “The improvements to
ing and pushing the bound- new facilities help dogs, cats the OVC Companion Ani-
and avian and exotic patients mal Hospital ensure pets can Mira, a six-year-old Mastiff mixed breed dog, is a neurology patient who was referred to
aries, she enjoys working in a
who may suffer from condi- receive life-saving procedures the OVC Emergency Service in late June after experiencing seizures. A series of tests were
more modern working envi-
tions such as gastrointestinal with fewer complications and performed, including an MRI and a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and Mira was diag-
ronment. “OVC Pet Trust is the
(GI) diseases, pancreas and liv- faster recovery times, allowing nosed with a type of brain tumour cancer called a glioma, the second most common brain
lifeline for the work we do here
er diseases, kidney and urinary people and their pets to be tumour in dogs. She is visiting OVC for a CT scan for radiation therapy planning. These
at OVC,” Oblak says. “Support
tract diseases, foreign body together for longer.” types of tumours do not respond to chemotherapy; radiation is the best therapeutic op-
from OVC Pet Trust positions
ingestion and more. tion, which her owner, Allison Do Rego, has decided to pursue to treat Mira’s cancer. Many
us to be a centre of veterinary
patients like Mira are anesthetized for diagnostic imaging and tests, to ensure comfort and
excellence in the world; I’m
to keep them still and relaxed during the procedure. “Mira is my whole world,” Allison
proud of that.”
says. “I know she is in the best hands at OVC.”
20 21You can also read
