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Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition

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A special issue of Veterinary Sciences (ISSN 2306-7381).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2025) | Viewed by 15732

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Prof. Dr. Zhijun Zhong

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Department of Veterinary Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
Interests: microbiology; antibiotic resistance
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Dr. Ziyao Zhou

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Department of Veterinary Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
Interests: veterinary dentistry; computer-aided design; personalized medicine
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Dear Colleagues,

Following the great success of the first edition of this Special Issue, “Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals”, we are pleased to launch the second edition, in which we will continue to explore cutting-edge advancements in veterinary medicine, focusing on innovative therapies that enhance the health and well-being of companion animals. Topics of interest include regenerative medicine, gene therapy, immunotherapy, and precision medicine, all of which are transforming the management of both chronic and acute conditions.

Building on the momentum of the first edition, this Special Issue will highlight breakthroughs in diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and minimally invasive procedures, emphasizing the role of advanced technology in extending and improving pets’ quality of life. It will also underscore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among veterinarians, researchers, and biotechnologists in driving further progress in this field. Featuring case studies, clinical trials, and expert reviews, this Special Issue will serve as a valuable resource for veterinary professionals looking to stay at the forefront of advanced therapeutic approaches.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Zhijun Zhong
Dr. Ziyao Zhou
Guest Editors

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Keywords

regenerative medicine
gene therapy
immunotherapy
precision medicine
companion animals
veterinary innovation
chronic conditions
personalized treatment
minimally invasive surgery
interdisciplinary collaboration

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Related Special Issues

Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals in Veterinary Sciences (17 articles)
Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—3rd Edition in Veterinary Sciences

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15 pages, 7686 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Characterization of Canine Parvoviruses and Emergence of Canine Bocavirus and Bufavirus from Diarrheic Dogs in Sichuan Province, China

by Siyu Liu, Xiaoqi Li, Yuxin Zhou, Shuangshuang Song, Yuyan Huang, Mengjie Che, Xin Lei, Iram Laghari, Mingyue Wu, Ruilin Han, Haifeng Liu, Ziyao Zhou, Guangneng Peng, Kun Zhang and Zhijun Zhong

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13010041 - 2 Jan 2026

Viewed by 438

Abstract

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is the primary cause of viral enteritis in dogs, while canine bocavirus (CBoV) and canine bufavirus (CBuV) have emerged as significant components of the canine enteric virome. Previous studies on CPV in Sichuan had limited geographic coverage and sample size, and lacked data on CBoV and CBuV. This study used PCR to investigate the genetic diversity of CPV, CBoV and CBuV and to examine their co-infection status in diarrheic dogs across five regions of Sichuan between 2020 and 2022. The results revealed that CPV-2 was the most prevalent virus (33.3%, 48/144), while CBoV (5.56%, 8/144) and CBuV (4.17%, 6/144) were detected for the first time in Sichuan province. Genetic analysis revealed CPV-2c to be the predominant genotype (95.8% (46/48)), replacing the previously circulating strains CPV-2a and CPV-new 2a. The study also identified several typical and novel mutations in the VP2 protein in the CPV-2c strains, including Ala5Gly, Trp214Cys and Thr440Ala. Additionally, four co-infection cases (2.78%) were observed, including a triple CPV/CBoV/CBuV infection in Xichang (XC05). Phylogenetic analysis revealed genetic diversity, with CBoV strains clustering into CBoV-1 and CBoV-2 subspecies, while CBuV strains formed two distinct clusters. Our findings emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring of the dynamic epidemiological situation of CPV, CBoV and CBuV in Sichuan Province. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 5812 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phosphoproteomic Analysis Reveals Differences in Intercellular Spread Among Feline Herpesvirus Type 1 Mutants

by Weiwei Lin, Xianglin Zhang, Qian Jiang, Hongtao Kang, Yijing Li, Honglin Jia and Jiasen Liu

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(12), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12121185 - 11 Dec 2025

Viewed by 403

Abstract

Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) is taxonomically classified within the family Herpesviridae, subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae, genus Varicellovirus, and species Felid alphaherpesvirus 1. The genome of FHV-1 is 135,797 bp in length and encodes 74 proteins. Among these proteins, serine/threonine protein kinase (pK) and thymidine kinase (TK) have been identified as potential virulence factors in alphaherpesviruses, although these kinases are dispensable for viral replication. As kinases, regulating phosphorylation modification is one of their functions, while the mechanism by which phosphorylation modification affects cell physiological functions and thereby influences viral replication remains unclear. In this study, we generated pK- and TK-deficient FHV-1 mutants by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homologous recombination. The pK-deficient virus produced significantly smaller plaques than the TK-deficient virus. The replication kinetics of the pK-deficient virus were attenuated in multistep growth compared to the TK-deficient virus. These results indicate that deletion of the pK gene markedly reduces the replicative capacity of FHV-1. We applied data-independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative proteomics to profile changes in global protein expression and phosphorylation in F81 cells upon infection with TK⁻, pK^−, and wild-type FHV-1 strain. The pK-deficient virus exhibited 3632 differentially phosphorylated proteins containing 11,936 modification sites; the TK-deficient virus showed 4529 differentially phosphorylated proteins with 19,225 phosphorylation sites. Functional characterization through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses identified significant involvement of phosphoproteins in spliceosome pathways in pK-deficient virus and ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling pathway in TK-deficient virus. Notably, several splicing regulators—including Ess-2 and CDK13, which modulate host spliceosomal function—displayed significantly reduced phosphorylation levels in pK-deficient viruses. A significant enrichment of ATP-dependent factors, such as SMARCA5 and RSF1, was observed in the TK-deficient virus. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation into the effects of FHV-1 infection on the host cell phosphoproteome. These data offer new insights into the phosphoregulatory circuits and signaling networks triggered by FHV-1 and may enhance our understanding of the FHV-1 replication mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 1637 KB

Open AccessArticle

Orthodontic Implants: Novelty and Evolution in Veterinary Orthodontics—Retrospective Case Series Report

by Raluca-Ioana Nedelea, Mihai Marian Borzan, Cristinel Cezar Mătură and Ioan Marcus

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(12), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12121169 - 9 Dec 2025

Viewed by 958

Abstract

Orthodontic implants (OIs) are endosseous devices designed to provide stable skeletal anchorage in orthodontic treatment. A variety of terms have been proposed for these devices; however, such terminology may lead to OIs being confused with conventional dental implants. Therefore, the similarities and distinctions between OIs and dental implants will be examined in this research. Three representative clinical cases will be presented, illustrating the application of OIs for mandibular incisor teeth lingualizations, distalization of a maxillary canine tooth, and palatal flap protection for palatoschizis closure in a cat, describing a custom-made protection shield held in place with four OIs. This article will cover the criteria for OI selection, the determination of optimal insertion sites, and the placement technique. Given that a key prerequisite for a successful outcome is primary stability, several complications may occur such as local inflammation, injury to adjacent anatomical structures, implant fracture, loss of stability, or challenges in attaching elastic chains due to interference from surrounding soft tissues. The prevention and management of such complications will be addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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10 pages, 698 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Canthoplasty in Preventing Secondary Ocular Surface Lesions in Brachycephalic Dogs

by Alcyjara Rêgo Costa, Tatiane Avelar Ribeiro, Diego Marques C. Silva, José Ribamar da Silva Júnior, Tiago Barbalho Lima, Rui M. Gil da Costa, Ana I. Faustino-Rocha, Paula A. Oliveira and Ana Lúcia Abreu-Silva

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(9), 889; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12090889 - 15 Sep 2025

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Abstract

When detected early, canthoplasty controls the clinical signs and complications associated with accentuated eye exposure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reduction in the palpebral fissure to prevent ophthalmic lesions secondary to brachycephalic dog syndrome. A total of 64 eyes of brachycephalic dogs were studied, divided into the control group (22 eyes submitted to traditional clinical treatment) and the treated group (42 eyes submitted to canthoplasty). Tear production, tear film break-up time (TFBUT), tear crystallization time (TCT), and the occurrence of corneal ulcers were assessed prior to treatment (T0), seven days after therapy or surgery (T7), and after 30 days (T30), and reassessments were performed every three months, until month 18. It was observed that the treated animals (treated group) showed an improvement in tear production compared to the control animals (control group). In addition, the treated animals showed a significant increase in TFBUT (T9M), which was higher than the control group. The TCT evaluation scores of the treated group decreased compared to the control group (T12M), and the occurrence of corneal ulcers was significantly higher in the control group in the medium term. We concluded that early canthoplasty in brachycephalic dogs prevented the occurrence of secondary lesions, increased tear production and quality, and reduced the occurrence of ulcers, particularly in the medium term. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 2227 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Dual Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Effects of Phallus indusiatus in a Feline Infectious Peritonitis Model Using PBMCs

by Chularat Hlaoperm, Wassamon Moyadee, Emwalee Wongsaengnoi, Wiwat Klankaew, Amonpun Rattanasrisomporn, Atchara Paemanee, Kiattawee Choowongkomon, Oumaporn Rungsuriyawiboon and Jatuporn Rattanasrisomporn

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(9), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12090847 - 1 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2973

Abstract

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a progressive and often fatal disease caused by a virulent biotype of feline coronavirus (FCoV). Although antiviral treatments are now available, relapse and resistance remain ongoing concerns. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of P. indusiatus, a medicinal mushroom, for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities against FIP. The main protease (FIPV M^pro) of feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV) was recombinantly expressed and purified to facilitate enzyme inhibition screening. P. indusiatus exhibited the strongest FIPV M^pro inhibitory activity among the 17 mushroom extracts tested (69.2%), showing a notable level of inhibition relative to standard antiviral agents such as lopinavir and ritonavir. To assess its anti-inflammatory potential, PBMCs derived from healthy cats and FIP-associated effusions (FIP fluid) were cultured and stimulated with LPS to induce inflammation. In healthy PBMCs, P. indusiatus significantly reduced nitrite levels, with effects similar to dexamethasone. However, PBMCs from FIP fluid, already in an activated state, showed no additional response. Notably, this study is the first to successfully isolate and culture PBMCs from FIP fluid, providing a new platform for future immunological research. These findings suggest that P. indusiatus possesses both antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, positioning it as a potential dual-action therapeutic candidate for FIP. Further investigation into cytokine signaling pathways is warranted to clarify its mechanisms of action and advance future therapeutic development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 379 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Dual Character of Animal-Centred Care: Relational Approaches in Veterinary and Animal Sanctuary Work

by Anna K. E. Schneider and Marc J. Bubeck

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080696 - 25 Jul 2025

Viewed by 1193

Abstract

Caring for the lives and welfare of animals is central to veterinary and animal sanctuary work, yet the meaning remains a subject of complex debates. Different stakeholders negotiate what constitutes appropriate care, leading to conflicting demands and expectations from internal and external sources. This article is based on two qualitative studies: Study I explores the multifaceted aspects of death work in farm animal medicine, emphasising the practical, emotional and ethical challenges involved. Study II examines human–animal interaction in sanctuaries, which reveal tensions between instrumental and relational care in animal-centred work. Relational care represents a subjectifying approach with individual attention to animals, while instrumental care is a more objectifying perspective based on species representation. These demands can often be contradictory, complicating day-to-day decision making under pressure. To analyse these complexities, this study employs Clarke’s situational analysis (social worlds/arenas mapping), providing a means of comparing care work across different fields. This approach highlights how actor constellations, institutional settings, and structural constraints influence the negotiation of care. Addressing these issues provides a more nuanced understanding of the professional challenges of animal-centred care and the necessary skills to navigate its inherent contradictions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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11 pages, 948 KB

Open AccessArticle

Finite Element Analysis of Stress Distribution in Canine Lumbar Fractures with Different Pedicle Screw Insertion Angles

by Ziyao Zhou, Xiaogang Shi, Jiahui Peng, Xiaoxiao Zhou, Liuqing Yang, Zhijun Zhong, Haifeng Liu, Guangneng Peng, Chengli Zheng and Ming Zhang

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(7), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12070682 - 19 Jul 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1382

Abstract

Pedicle screw fixation is a critical technique for stabilizing lumbar fractures in canines, yet the biomechanical implications of insertion angles remain underexplored. This study aims to identify optimal screw trajectories by analyzing stress distribution and deformation patterns in beagle lumbar segments (L6-L7) using finite element analysis (FEA). A 3D finite element model was reconstructed from CT scans of a healthy beagle, incorporating cortical/cancellous bone, intervertebral disks, and cartilage. Pedicle screws (2.4 mm diameter, 22 mm length) were virtually implanted at angles ranging from 45° to 65°. A 10 N vertical load simulated standing conditions. Equivalent stress and total deformation were evaluated under static loading. The equivalent stress occurred at screw–rod junctions, with maxima at 50° (11.73 MPa) and minima at 58° (3.25 MPa). Total deformation ranged from 0.0033 to 0.0064 mm, with the highest at 55° and the lowest at 54°. The 58° insertion angle demonstrated optimal biomechanical stability with minimal stress concentration, with 56–60° as a biomechanically favorable range for pedicle screw fixation in canine lumbar fractures, balancing stress distribution and deformation control. Future studies should validate these findings in multi-level models and clinical settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 1470 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Real-Time Monitoring of Cardiac Output Using Non-Invasive Impedance Cardiography in Dogs: A Pilot Study on Heartworm Extraction and Gastric Decompression

by Daesik Kim, Seol-Gi Park and Min Su Kim

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050478 - 15 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1347

Abstract

Background: Gastric dilatation (GD) and heartworm disease (HW) can significantly impact cardiovascular function, necessitating timely intervention. This study evaluated hemodynamic changes in these conditions using impedance cardiography (ICG), a non-invasive technique for real-time monitoring. Methods: Cardiac parameters were measured using ICG in healthy controls, HW, and GD groups at baseline, during intervention, and post-treatment. Statistical analyses involved repeated measures ANOVA with post hoc comparisons, and relative changes (%) quantified hemodynamic improvements. Results: A significant increase in cardiac index (CI) occurred post-treatment in both HW (+14.71%, p = 0.0102) and GD (+28.53%, p = 0.0336) groups. Cardiac output (CO) exhibited an increasing trend, though without significance (p > 0.05). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) remained stable, although the GD group exhibited an upward trend post decompression (p = 0.1213). Conclusions: Heartworm extraction and gastric decompression induced measurable cardiovascular improvements, with distinct recovery patterns. Non-invasive monitoring effectively captured cardiovascular changes, suggesting its utility as an adjunctive tool in clinical assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 3395 KB

Open AccessArticle

Kinesiology Taping Does Not Affect Tarsal Joint Motion During Selected Exercises in Dogs

by Rebecca C. Noel, Leann M. Shaw, Nicholas H. Millis, Krysta Janas and Darryl L. Millis

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050439 - 3 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1388

Abstract

Background: Use of kinesiology taping has increased in veterinary medicine, yet there are few studies of its effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of kinesiology tape placed on the dorsal surface of the tarsus on kinetic and kinematic gait characteristics while performing selected exercises in dogs using 3D motion capture and force platform analysis of gait. Methods: Ten clinically normal, healthy, adult mixed-breed dogs were recruited for this study. Reflective markers were applied to the skin of the left and right pelvic limbs of each dog. Eight infrared cameras were positioned around a 13 m platform containing a force platform. Dogs were walked, trotted, and led over cavaletti rails with and without kinesiology tape extending from the distal tibia, crossing the cranial surface of the tarsus, and extending to the dorsal surface of the metatarsals. The evaluations were repeated 2 h later. Maximum flexion and extension in the sagittal plane and maximum angular acceleration and velocity were measured at the tarsus and stifle for each dog. Peak vertical (Z_Peak), braking (Y_A), and propulsion (Y_B) forces were determined as a percentage of body weight while walking and trotting. Results: Ground-reaction forces were greater at the trot compared to the walk, and stifle and tarsal flexion were greater with stepping over cavaletti rails as compared to walking and trotting. There were no differences in kinematic or kinetic measurements related to the kinesiology tape application, time, or exercise being performed. Conclusions: Kinesiology tape had no effect on tarsal joint gait characteristics while walking, trotting, or stepping over cavaletti rails when applied to the dorsal tarsus of normal dogs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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Open AccessCase Report

Effects and Microbiota Changes Following Oral Lyophilized Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Capsules in Canine with Chronic Enteropathy After Parvovirus Infection: Case Report

by Siyu Liu, Baihui Zhou, Lei Liu, Jialai Zhong, Xinyan Zhang, Wenting Jiang, Haifeng Liu, Ziyao Zhou, Guangneng Peng, Yalin Zhong, Kun Zhang and Zhijun Zhong

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(9), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12090909 - 18 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2197

Abstract

(1) Background: Chronic enteropathy (CE) in canines is associated with persistent microbiome dysbiosis, and conventional therapies (e.g., special diets, antimicrobials, and immunosuppressive drugs) are sometimes ineffective. Currently, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has proven successful in treating CE in canines via invasive methods (e.g., enemas or endoscopy) or via oral frozen liquid capsules, which must be stored at −80 °C. However, due to the invasiveness of the administration methods and the storage constraints of the liquid capsules, FMT is not widely used in veterinary clinical practice. (2) Methods: The case of a four-year-old Siberian Husky with a three-year history of CE following canine parvovirus infection received lyophilized FMT capsules for thirty days. Stool samples were collected for metagenomic sequencing and quantification of fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), both pre- and post-FMT. Blood samples were analyzed using complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical testing. Ultrasound was used to assess the wall thickness of the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, and colon. (3) Results: Post-FMT, improvements in clinical outcomes were observed: fecal scores improved from 6 (unformed stools with mucus) to 2 (formed stool), and body weight increased by 8.3% (from 24.2 kg to 26.2 kg). Abnormal CBC and biochemical parameters were restored to reference ranges, including hematocrit (from 60.6% to 55.7%), hemoglobin (from 208 g/L to 190 g/L), creatinine (from 167 μmol/L to 121 μmol/L), and urea (from 11.9 mmol/L to 7.1 mmol/L). Ultrasound results showed that colonic wall thickness decreased from 0.23 ± 0.03 cm (pathological) to 0.18 ± 0.01 cm (physiological). Metagenomic analysis revealed that microbial richness (operational taxonomic units (OTUs) from 151 to 183) and diversity (Shannon and Simpson indices from 3.16 to 4.8 and from 0.87 to 0.94, respectively) all increased. The microbiota composition of the recipient exhibited a decline in the relative abundance of Firmicutes, falling from 99.84% to 35.62%, concomitant with an increase in Actinobacteria (from 0.08% to 4.78%), indicating a convergence toward a donor-like profile. Fecal SCFAs analysis revealed a 251.4% increase in propionate (from 0.0833 to 0.2929 mg/g) and elevated acetate (from 0.4425 to 0.4676 mg/g). These changes are functionally linked to enriched propanoate metabolism (Z = 0.89) in KEGG pathways. (4) Conclusions: Oral lyophilized FMT capsules resolved clinical signs of CE, enhanced microbial diversity and richness, and restored donor-like abundances of gut microbiota, particularly SCFA-producing taxa. Microbial restructuring increased microbial metabolite output, notably SCFA concentrations, and enriched functional metabolic pathways. Importantly, lyophilized FMT overcomes storage limitations and administration barriers, demonstrating its high clinical viability for treating canine CE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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7 pages, 199 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia in Cats: A Retrospective Case Series

by Elena Lardone, Alessandra Landi, Greta Martinelli and Paolo Franci

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 738; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080738 - 7 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1437

Abstract

Thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) is widely used in human medicine to provide effective perioperative analgesia, yet its application in veterinary species—particularly cats—remains underexplored. This retrospective case study describes the use of TEA in nine client-owned cats undergoing major surgeries. All cats received a single epidural injection of 0.2 mL/kg of 0.5% ropivacaine combined with 0.1 mg/kg morphine at the T12–T13 interspace using a 25 G × 25 mm Quincke needle. Intraoperative physiological parameters were continuously monitored, and postoperative analgesia was assessed using a validated pain scale. Only one cat exhibited inadequate analgesic coverage, likely due to TEA failure. Of the nine cats, seven required minimal to no intraoperative rescue analgesia, while five received postoperative opioids on the day following surgery. Hemodynamic stability was observed in most cases, with no significant complications reported. These findings suggest that TEA is a feasible and effective technique for perioperative pain management in cats undergoing major surgery. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these initial findings and investigate the safety of the technique in a larger population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)

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