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Working dogs are professionally trained canines that assist humans in various tasks, with a long-standing history. Their traditional roles primarily include military dogs, police dogs, herding dogs, and guide dogs. With societal progress and the diversification of human needs, working dogs have emerged in roles and applications far beyond the traditional fields they have historically been associated with.This review describes and analyzes these developing roles and explores the scientific basis, outcomes, and trends behind them. Common non-traditional areas of working dog applications include animal-assisted therapy (AAT), biological disease detection, and animal-assisted education (AAE). Additionally, working dogs may be used in interventions such as prison and drug rehabilitation centers, wildlife protection, and special odor search and location. These roles not only broaden the scope of working dog use and increases their economic value, but also shows potential for significant societal benefits.

In this study, the protective effects of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) leaf extracts against hepatotoxicity induced by cyclophosphamide (CP), a cytotoxic agent, were investigated. Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into five equal groups. The control and CP groups received 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) via gavage for 10 days. On the 7th day, a single intraperitoneal dose of CP (200 mg/kg body weight) was administered to the rats in both the CP and the experimental groups. The rats in the experimental groups were also treated with n-hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and methanolic (MeOH) extracts (1g/kg body weight, via gavage) each dissolved in DMSO, for 10 days. In the LC-QTOF-MS analyses of the extracts, apigenin-7-O-rutinoside was present exclusively in the EtOAc extract, while this extract also had the highest concentrations of luteolin-7-O- glucoside, apigenin 7-glucoside, apigenin, oxo-octadecatrienoic acid, hydroxy-octadecatrienoic acid, and hydroxy-octadecadienoic acid. In the plasma and liver tissue samples of the CP group, levels of MDA, TNF-α, and IL-1β increased, while antioxidant markers levels and IL-10 levels decreased. Compared to the CP group, the MeOH extract group showed reduced levels of MDA, TNF-α, and IL-1β, along with increased levels of GSH (except in liver tissue), GPx, SOD, and IL-10 in both plasma and liver samples. In the EtOAc group, liver MDA levels were significantly reduced and plasma GSH levels were elevated. However, changes in plasma IL-1β, IL-10, and TNF-α levels were not statistically significant. In the n-hexane group, none of the examined parameters showed significant changes. Histopathological examinations of liver tissues in the CP group revealed sinusoidal dilation, hyperemia in the central veins, vacuolar degeneration, and increased Kupffer cell activation. In contrast, the EtOAc group exhibited a marked reduction in these anomalies, indicating notable histological improvement. The MeOH group showed a reduction in hyperemia and vacuolar degeneration, while the n-hexane group demonstrated only limited tissue recovery. Consequently, the results of this study demonstrated that the EtOAc extract, rich in diverse phenolic compounds, was the most effective in mitigating CP-induced hepatic degeneration. Meanwhile, the MeOH extract, which had the highest total phenolic content, exhibited the strongest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and contributed to partial histological improvement.

This study aimed to determine species-specific echocardiographic parameters in rehabilitated and clinically healthy white storks (Ciconia ciconia) using transcoelomic echocardiography, providing essential reference values for avian cardiovascular assessment. Thirty-seven white storks admitted to the Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Veterinary Faculty Rehabilitation Center were evaluated after a 3-month observation period. Only clinically healthy individuals were included. Echocardiographic measurements were performed using a transcoelomic approach without anesthesia. Cardiac parameters, including interventricular septal thickness (IVSd, IVSs), left ventricular dimensions (LVIDd, LVIDs, LVPWd, LVPWs), functional indices (fractional shortening, ejection fraction), and Doppler-derived hemodynamic values, were recorded and analyzed statistically. All individuals exhibited normal cardiac morphology and hemodynamics. No significant differences were observed between male and female storks (p > 0.05). The ejection fraction ranged from 23% to 97%, and interventricular septal thickness in diastole (IVSd) was between 0.27 and 0.86 cm. Fractional shortening varied from 14% to 75%. Hemodynamic measurements, including mitral valve inflow velocities and aortic flow parameters, were comparable to values reported in other large avian species. No pathological jet flow or valvular regurgitation was detected via color Doppler imaging. This study establishes the first echocardiographic reference ranges for white storks, offering valuable insights into avian cardiac physiology. The findings contribute to wildlife rehabilitation, providing a diagnostic baseline for assessing cardiovascular health in migratory birds. Future studies incorporating larger sample sizes and age-based comparisons will enhance our understanding of species-specific cardiac adaptations.

This study investigates the localization and immunoexpression levels of nesfatin-1 and ghrelin—two metabolically active peptides—and their putative shared receptor, Growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), across the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of Holstein–Friesian bulls. Recognized for their opposing roles in energy balance, nesfatin-1 and ghrelin are considered “sibling peptides” due to their complementary physiological functions and origin within the gastrointestinal system. The investigation encompassed both immature (calves) and mature (adult) cattle to assess developmental variation in these peptides immunoexpression and localization. Immunohistochemistry and ELISA were employed to determine their localization patterns and quantify protein concentrations across distinct GIT segments. Nesfatin-1 was found broadly distributed in mucosal layers and the enteric nervous system (ENS), with a pronounced presence in the abomasum and duodenum. Notably, calves exhibited higher levels of nesfatin-1 across most GIT regions, suggesting age-related differences in metabolic regulation. Ghrelin was predominantly localized in the abomasum and, to a lesser extent, in other gastrointestinal regions, including the forestomachs and intestinal mucosa. Its presence in neuronal structures of the ENS, although less abundant, hints at potential neural roles beyond endocrine signalling. GHSR immunoexpression was restricted mainly to the enteric ganglia and selected epithelial cells, with significant levels observed in the duodenum, particularly in calves. The receptor was absent in the rumen, implying that ghrelin activity in this region might be mediated via systemic or paracrine pathways rather than local receptor binding. The findings reveal both overlapping and distinct localization patterns of these peptides and their receptor, showing complex interactions in GIT physiology. Elevated nesfatin-1 immunoexpression in young animals suggests a potential developmental role, while the conserved ghrelin distribution reinforces its established gastric functions. These results may contribute insights into the regulatory architecture of bovine metabolism and potentially inform strategies for optimizing cattle growth and health management, providing a relevant reference point for veterinary sciences.

Semen extenders are pivotal in maintaining the integrity and quality of avian sperm throughout the storage period. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of three commonly used extenders, Lake (LAKE), Beltsville Poultry Semen Extender (BPSE), and EK extender, in the storage of Aseel rooster semen at 5 ºC for 48 hours. The control group was constituted using Lactated Ringer's solution. Spermatological analyses were conducted at 0, 24, and 48 hours to evaluate the time-dependent effects of these extenders on sperm motility, viability, morphological changes, mitochondrial function, membrane functionality, and both acrosome and plasma membrane integrity in sperm cells. The results indicated that the BPSE and EK groups exhibited higher total and progressive motility rates compared to the control and LAKE groups at 24 and 48 hours. Additionally, morphological damage rates were lower in the EK and BPSE groups than in the LAKE group at these time points. Mitochondrial activity was higher in the EK group than in the LAKE group at 24 hours. Acrosome integrity and plasma membrane integrity rates declined over time; however, they remained similar among all groups at corresponding time points. In conclusion, BPSE and EK extenders, characterized by higher fructose content and greater osmolality, were found to be more effective in preserving the sperm quality of Aseel rooster semen during cold storage compared to the LAKE extender.

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) causes serious reproductive and respiratory effects in pig populations worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and phylogenetic relationships of field isolates of the PRRS virus (PRRSV) in pig populations in four regions of Kazakhstan. A representative sample of 323 pigs was selected to establish the seroprevalence of PRRSV in the study area. A serological test for detecting antibodies (ELISA) was performed, and the genetic characteristics of the virus were examined using the PCR method. Virus isolation was performed in MARC 145, SPEV and PK -15 cell lines from blood samples. In total, 13.93% of the tested serum samples (n =45) revealed seropositivity against PRRSV antibodies. The genetic sequencing of the isolated strains indicated the widespread circulation of the North American genotype in the Almaty region. These results were confirmed by the cytopathic effects observed in cell cultures. MARC-145 cells were also found to be more susceptible to infection than SPEV and PK -15 cell lines. Molecular analysis showed that the local strains have undergone significant genetic drift from the sequenced European strains and are phylogenetically more closely related to the strains originating from North American. The results of genetic analyses indicate that the North American genotype has become established in Kazakhstan. This situation requires increased use of biosecurity systems and vaccines specific for this genotype. To conclude, our results highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and an active adaptive management system in controlling the spread of PRRS in regional pig populations.

The mechanism of action of bisphenol A (BPA) in the myometrium has not been fully understood, which is why an attempt was made to determine the involvement of the key mechanisms (cholinergic, adrenergic and non-cholinergic/non-adrenergic) that regulate the uterine contractile activity in the relaxant effect of this bisphenol in cyclic gilts. Strips of myometrium were incubated with the Krebs-Ringer solution (K-Rs), acetylcholine (ACh), atropine, epinephrine, phentolamine, bupranolol, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), methylene blue (MB), N-ω-nitro L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) or tamoxifen, and then stimulated with increasing (10-8-10-2 M) BPA concentrations. BPA administered at concentrations of 10-5-10-2 M, 10-3–10-2 M and 10-2 M after incubation with K-Rs, SNP and ACh, L-NAME and tamoxifen, respectively, significantly reduced the uterine tension compared to the period before treatment. The amplitude of contractions was significantly reduced in myometrium pretreated with SNP and thereafter stimulated with BPA at concentrations 10-3–10-2 M and pretreated with KRs, ACh, epinephrine, phentolamine, L-NAME, MB and tamoxifen and stimulated with BPA at a concentration of 10-2 M compared to the period before treatment. BPA administered after incubation with ACh, atropine and SNP significantly reduced the frequency of uterine contractions at concentrations of 10-7–10-2 M, after epinephrine and bupranolol at concentrations of 10-6–10-2 M, after MB at concentrations of 10-5–10-2 M, after KR-s and phentolamine at concentrations of 10-3–10-2 M, and after L-NAME and tamoxifen at a concentration of 10-2 M com-pared to the period before treatment. BPA at concentrations of 10-4-10-2 M significantly reduced the AUC value after prior administration of atropine, SNP and L-NAME, and at a concentration of 10-2 M after incubation with KR-s, ACh, epinephrine, phentolamine, bupranolol, MB and tamoxifen compared to the period before treatment. The results indicate that BPA’s mechanism of action in the porcine myometrium is complex and that the final response to BPA’s action results from multiple overlapping mechanisms of action. The autonomic system may slightly modify the action of BPA, with the nitrergic mechanism appearing to perform a more important role but with the guanyl cyclase/c-GMP mechanism being omitted. In addition, blocking the oestradiol-binding sites has no significant effect on the relaxant effect of BPA in the experimental design used.

Microelement deficiencies are a current problem in horse breeding, causing infertility and fetal development disorders. The aim of the study was to control the concentration of zinc, copper and selenium in the blood serum of pregnant herd mares. The study included 154 mares in the second half of pregnancy, kept in five regions of south-eastern Poland: Łęczyńsko-Włodawska Plain, Chełmskie Hills, Łukowska Plain, Beskid Niski and Działy Grabowieckie. The concentration of zinc, copper and selenium in the obtained blood serum was determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The serum zinc concentration in all studied mares did not exceed 10.7 µmol/l, while the adopted reference range is 14.9 - 29.2 µmol/l. The lowest concentration of copper and selenium was found in mares from Beskid Niski. In all the studied regions, herd mares had zinc deficiency, and in Beskid Niski additionally copper and selenium deficiency. Despite the identified deficiencies, all the studied mares gave birth on time and registered newborn foals. Since no clinical symptoms of deficiencies of the tested trace elements were observed, it can be assumed that if occurred, they were subclinical.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between acyclia and subclinical endometritis (SE) and their combined effect on fertility performance in dairy cows. The study was performed on 449 Holstein Friesian cows. The cows were examined in the 4th week postpartum by ultrasound and endometrial samples were collected by cytobrush. Acyclia was defined as the absence of the corpus luteum and follicles > 5 mm on the ovaries. The threshold for SE was set at ≥ 5% of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in endometrial cytology. Intervals calving to estrus and calving to conception, first AI pregnancy rate, pregnancy rate 200 days postpartum, pregnancy loss and culling rate were calculated. Acyclia was found in 144 (32.1%) of 449 examined cows. The incidence of SE in acyclic cows was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in cyclic cows (52.8% vs 36.7%). The intervals calving to estrus and calving to conception were significantly (p < 0.05) longer in acyclic cows with SE than in cyclic cows with SE (99.1 ± 28.9 days vs 77.4 ± 24.3 days and 160.2 ± 60.9 days vs 131.6 ± 46.6 days, respectively). The first AI conception rate was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in acyclic cows with SE than in cyclic cows with SE (17.1% vs 34.8%). The pregnancy loss was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in acyclic cows with SE than in cyclic cows with SE (11.8% vs 5.3%). In conclusion, the study showed that acyclia and SE were associated and had additive negative effect on reproductive performance in dairy cows.

The aim of the study was to develop a PCR-RFLP diagnostic test to detect causal mutation for Bovine Lymphocyte Intestinal Retention Deficiency (BLIRD). A total of 217 bulls were tested, including 112 bulls being sons of a known BLIRD-carrier sire and 105 bulls used in insemination from 2020 - 2024 with no indication of BLIRD in their pedigree data. Genomic DNA was isolated from the commercial semen straw. The developed method for identifying the causative BLIRD mutation involved PCR amplification of a 412 base pair fragment of the ITGB7 gene and its digestion with the restriction enzyme Ssi I, which allowed for the clear and cost-effective genotyping of BLIRD. In the first group of 112 bulls, 60 BLIRD carriers and 2 BLIRD-affected bulls were identified. They were sons of internationally known top sires, Manfred (US2183007), Convincer (US2249055) and Justice (US22358313). In the second group of 105 bulls, 7 BLIRD carriers were found, giving a frequency of 6.67% among bulls born within the last five years. Further research should be conducted on a larger number of bulls, particularly those for which there is a risk of carrier status based on the bull’s pedigree.

The resistance of strongyles to pyrantel has been reported in publications worldwide. There is no data on its efficacy in horses in Poland. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of pyrantel pamoate to control strongyle invasions in young horses. The study involved horses of both sexes, aged 1 to 2 years, and was conducted in two seasons (spring and end of summer). Faeces were collected 24 hours before and 14 days after deworming, then they were examined using the coproscopic McMaster’s and combined sedimentation-flotation methods. Results revealed that in spring, the average EPG before deworming was 1354.54, but after the treatment EPG was 485, and FECRT = 67.45%. Considering the age groups of horses, the average EPG for one-year-old was 1565.38, and 1050 for two-year-old, respectively. The FECRT for strongyle invasions was 69.78% in one-year-old and 62.43% in two-year-old horses. At the end of summer, the average EPG was 1954.54 before deworming, but after the treatment, strongyle eggs were only found in two horses, and FECRT was 99.53%. Considering the age groups of horses before deworming, the average EPG in one-year-old were 2103.85, but 1738.89 in two-year-old horses. The FECRT values were 99.27 and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: results revealed a quite limited efficacy of pyrantel pamoate in deworming of Strongylidae invasions in young (one- and two-year-old horses) during the spring season. According to WAAVP recommendations, that was assumed as pyrantel pamoate resistance of Strongylidae nematodes in horses. On the opposite, treatment using the same compound in the same age horses, but conducted at the end of summer, was found satisfactory. This was the first study concerning pyrantel pamoate efficacy in horses in Poland.

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs can progress gradually with left atrial enlargement. In veterinary medicine, several radiographic variables including the vertebral heart size (VHS), vertebral left atrial size (VLAS), modified VLAS (M-VLAS), and radiographic left atrial dimension (RLAD) are used to assess cardiac enlargement. The Mitral INsufficiency Echocardiographic (MINE) score, which provides an echocardiographic assessment of the severity of MMVD, has recently been utilized as a predictor of cardiac death. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation and cut-off values between the MINE score and radiographic variables. A total of 132 dogs with MMVD were recruited. The correlation between radiographic variables and the MINE score was assessed using Pearson’s correlation analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the corresponding area under the curve (AUC) values and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were generated for radiographic variables using a MINE scores over 8 and over 13 as the classifiers. The MINE score showed a positive correlation with the VHS, VLAS, M-VLAS, and RLAD. For a cut-off MINE score ≥ 8, the radiographic variables could be ranked form highest to lowest AUC value as follows: VHS, VLAS, M-VLAS, and RLAD with cut-off values of 10.75, 2.75, 4.05, and 2.45, respectively. For a cut-off MINE score ≥ 13, the radiographic variables could be ranked from highest to lowest AUC value as follows: RLAD, M-VLAS, VLAS, and VHS, with cut-off values of 11.25, 2.75, 4.55, and 2.95, respectively. The results of this study highlight the potential of thoracic radiography as an alternative method for providing valuable prognostic insights in dogs with MMVD.