Bush dogs are small South American canids that are gregarious and live in packs of 10-12 in the wild. They are relatively rare, and are classified as near-threatened by the IUCN. In this case, the dominant breeding male bush dog in a small zoo pack was suffering from chronic abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and weight loss.

Exploratory diagnostic laparoscopy using an open approach and 3mm paediatric instruments was performed as part of a thorough diagnostic evaluation. Laparoscopic mesenteric lymphnode and liver biopsies were taken, as well as laparoscopic-assisted full thickness intestinal biopsies.

Chronic exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and Inflammatory bowel disease IBD, likely secondary to the EPI) were found, and he is responding well to initial medical management

First published Thu, Sep 16 2010