21/May/2024

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of nutraceuticals for retinal diseases.

Despite advances in pharmaceutical therapies, the protection of retinal neural tissue remains a significant challenge due to its limited regenerative capacity. In this context, research on the efficacy of nutraceuticals has become relevant, especially in the field of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In this article, we will focus on the key ingredients present in Retinae, a nutraceutical product designed to maintain ocular health and prevent retinopathy.

The Retina

The retina is a highly specialized structure that lines the back of the eye and plays a crucial role in transmitting visual signals to the brain. Composed of several cell layers, the retina is highly vulnerable to damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation, which are contributing factors in the development of diseases such as AMD. Maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the retina is critical to preserving visual health throughout life.

Retinae and RetinaeXL Ingredients

Tagetes erecta (Carotenoids – Lutein and Zeaxanthin):

Carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, are plant pigments with antioxidant properties. Clinical studies, such as the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), have shown that lutein and zeaxanthin may help protect the retina against oxidative damage and cellular degeneration associated with AMD. Supplementation with these carotenoids has shown significant benefits in preventing disease progression and preserving visual function.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are known for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation can reduce retinal inflammation and neovascularization, two processes involved in the pathogenesis of AMD. In addition, omega-3 can modulate gene expression and improve retinal cell function, which contributes to the preservation of ocular health.

Vitamins (C, E, B [B6, B9, B12])

Antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, play a crucial role in protecting the retina against oxidative stress. In addition, B vitamins, including B6, B9 and B12, are involved in the regulation of cellular metabolism and the prevention of neurodegeneration. Supplementation with these vitamins can help maintain retinal health and prevent the development of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and AMD.

Minerals (Zinc and Copper)

Zinc and copper are essential minerals for cellular function and normal metabolism. Zinc supplementation can protect the retina against oxidative damage and cellular degeneration associated with AMD. In addition, copper plays an important role in regulating oxidative stress and inflammatory response, thus contributing to overall ocular health.

Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, may help protect the retina against damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. Studies have shown that lactoferrin can modulate the immune response and reduce the expression of proinflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

Retinae’s unique composition, which includes a combination of carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and lactoferrin, offers a comprehensive strategy for the maintenance of ocular health and the prevention of retinopathies. By addressing multiple mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of diseases such as AMD, Retinae is a nutritional supplement that delivers all of these nutrients to the body and the retina.

Download the PDF for more detailed information on the composition of Retinae and bibliographic references to the studies mentioned.

More information about Rethinopathies in our Blog: https://drvet.pet/en/all-about-progressive-retinal-atrophy/

Dr+Vet

14/May/2024

We can now announce the new presentation of Retinae!

Retinae, our innovative nutraceutical product designed to be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of retinopathies, now comes in a new presentation: RetinaeXL!

What is RetinaeXL?

We have listened to the comments of many veterinarians, who told us that the usual presentation “was too small” for dogs of 30 or 40kg. So we set to work to formulate and create RetinaeXL. Its formula with twice the concentration of Retinae is specially designed for large and giant breed dogs.

How does RetinaeXL work?

Like standard Retinae, RetinaeXL is formulated with a combination of carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and lactoferrin, all of which are known to have beneficial effects on eye health. However, RetinaeXL’s improved formula allows for more convenient and economical dosing for larger dogs.

The dosage of RetinaeXL is specifically adapted to larger dogs. It is recommended to administer one tablet of RetinaeXL per 20 kg body weight of the dog. This improved dosing facilitates handling and ensures accurate administration of the product, resulting in greater convenience and efficacy for caregivers and their pets.

The benefits of RetinaeXL:

Convenient and economical dosing: Dosing tailored to larger dogs makes handling easier and reduces costs associated with treatment, providing a more economical and efficient option for caregivers.
Same quality and safety: RetinaeXL maintains the high quality and safety standards that have made Retinae a trusted choice for pet eye care.

Where to get RetinaeXL?

RetinaeXL will be available from June at different distributors and veterinary clinics.

If you have any questions, please contact us at drvet@groupandersen.com

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Dr+Vet

10/Apr/2024

On Wednesday 3rd April, Dr+Vet was honoured to welcome leading veterinary ophthalmologist Maria Simó for our first webinar on Keratoconjunctivitis Seca (KCS) in dogs. During this virtual event, María Simó shared her knowledge and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of this common but often underestimated eye disease. Today, we can finally announce that the full video, with subtitles in English (and other languages automatically), is available for viewing on our blog and our YouTube channel! Attached to this article, you will find the direct link to the video so you can access it and deepen the knowledge shared by María Simó.

About Maria Simó:

Maria Simó is a renowned veterinary ophthalmologist with a solid background and extensive experience in the field of veterinary ophthalmology. Graduated in Veterinary Medicine from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, María has completed several postgraduate courses and works as an ophthalmologist at the prestigious Instituto Veterinario Oftalmológico (IVO) in Barcelona.

Contenido del Webinar:

Maria Simó talked us through the basics of Keratoconjunctivitis Seca, from diagnostic methods to the most effective treatment options, exploring in detail how to approach this disease in a comprehensive way.

One of the main conclusions of the webinar was the importance of not relying solely on the Schirmer test to diagnose KCS. María Simó emphasised the need for a complete and detailed assessment, as well as the use of additional diagnostic tools for a correct diagnosis, as without all the information, ineffective treatments may be prescribed. She also talked about the importance of referring cases that do not resolve correctly in order to fully evaluate them.

We thank all participants for their support.

The webinar on Keratoconjunctivitis Seca with Maria Simó was a great success, and we would like to thank everyone who joined us for this educational event. We hope that this resource will be a valuable source of information for all veterinarians interested in veterinary ophthalmology. Feel free to check out the full video and share it with your colleagues.

Stay tuned to our social media and website for more information on future of Dr+Vet events and educational resources!

Dr+Vet

25/Mar/2024

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), also known as “dry eye,” is a common ophthalmic condition in dogs and cats that affects the ocular surface, specifically the cornea and conjunctiva.

This disease results from the deficiency of some of the phases of the tear film, which leads to tear hyperosmolarity and, consequently, a series of ocular complications that can compromise the visual health of the animal.

The structure of the tear

To better understand KCS, it is important to know the three layers that make up the tear film and their functions:

Mucinous layer: This layer, the innermost, modifies the surface tension of the tear so that it adheres and distributes properly over the surface of the eye. Mucin is produced and secreted mainly in conjunctival goblet cells.
Aqueous layer: The intermediate layer, and the most abundant, hydrates the ocular surface and transports nutrients and oxygen essential for the metabolism of the cornea. It also acts as a flushing mechanism to remove debris and foreign bodies. This watery portion is produced and secreted in the main and accessory lacrimal glands.
Lipid layer: The outermost layer protects the aqueous layer from evaporation, allowing the tear to remain in the eye longer. In addition, it increases the surface tension of the tear, preventing overflow over the edge of the eyelid and lubricating the eyelids. This layer is produced and secreted mainly in the meibomian glands.

KCS classification

The KCS can be classified into two main types:

Qualitative KCS: It is produced by a pathological decrease in the lipid or mucoid components of the tear film, which makes it difficult for it to remain on the cornea, either due to excess evaporation or difficulty adhering. It is usually due to damage or inflammation in the meibomian glands or goblet cells of the conjunctiva.
Quantitative KCS: It is produced by a pathological decrease in the aqueous component of the tear film. It can have various causes, the most common being localized and chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the lacrimal gland. This is the most common form of KCS, and in most cases it progresses to a mixed form (quantitative and qualitative) over time.

What symptoms does it cause?

Symptoms of KCS may include mucosal exudate, conjunctival hyperemia, corneal opacity, neovascularization, corneal edema, and ulceration, among others. The diagnosis of KCS requires a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history and specific ophthalmological tests, such as the Schirmer Test, Fluorescein Test, and the Lysamine Green Test.

What treatment is used?

Treatment of KCS may include artificial tears, topical immunosuppressants, and surgical treatments, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the disease. Additionally, supplementation with specific nutraceuticals such as LACRIMALIS+ can help manage this disease, offering natural help to maintain pets’ eye health.

If your pet presents symptoms compatible with this disease, go to your trusted veterinarian for correct diagnosis and treatment.

Dr+Vet

18/Mar/2024

Iberzoo+Propet 2024, the international event for pet professionals, organized by IFEMA Madrid and promoted by the Madrid Association of Companion Animal Veterinarians (AMVAC) and the Spanish Association of Industry and Commerce of the Companion Animal Sector (Aedpac), closed its 9th edition last week. This event, a point of reference for pet professionals, brought together more than 220 nutrition, medicine and veterinary technology companies on March 13, 14 and 15, who exhibited their latest innovations and products, and thousands of veterinarians interested in the presentations and news of the sector.

The fair offered a full program of activities with various congresses and spaces, such as the Veterinary Classroom, the Aquariophilia activities, the Canine Styling Stage, the VI AEDPAC Forum, the VetMadrid Congress, the Artero Conference and the Sector Afternoon, where knowledge was shared and innovations and services designed for professionals in the sector were presented. A preview of the Sector Data Report of the Madrid Association of Companion Animal Veterinarians (AMVAC) was also presented.

Our stand at Iberzoo AMVAC Propet became a meeting point for veterinary professionals and other professionals in the sector, where we shared technical and relevant information about our products. The presentation of RetinaeXL was very well received by visitors, who showed great interest in this new nutraceutical presentation for retinal problems in large dogs.

In summary, Dr+Vet’s participation in Iberzoo AMVAC Propet 2024 was a rewarding and enriching experience. We are excited to continue advancing canine vision care with the launch of RetinaeXL and to continue collaborating with the veterinary community to improve the quality of life of our beloved pets.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind you that Maria Simó from the Ophthalmological Institute of Barcelona (IVO) will be the speaker of our first online webinar: April 3rd at 13:00h (Spain). You can register here.

Thanks to everyone who made this event possible and we hope to see you again in future editions of Iberzoo AMVAC Propet!

Photo: Animal’s Health (www.animalshealth.es)

Dr+Vet

27/Feb/2024

On February 23rd and 24th, the XII Veterinary Ophthalmology Congress was held in Madrid, organized by SEOVET (Spanish Society of Veterinary Ophthalmology).

This year, for the third consecutive time, Dr+Vet is once again sponsoring the largest Spanish congress of veterinary ophthalmology, the SEOVET. More than 140 specialists in this field gathered to share impressions and learn from great specialists.

This year the pre-congress started on Friday with the presentation of Laura Muñoz (Founder and Medical Director of OCULARVET). This was followed by the first lecture on photography in ophthalmology given by Javier Esteban of Anicura Ocaña and then the second lecture on photography given by Raquel Udiz. Both talks provided the attending veterinarians with interesting tips to improve their imaging technique and clinical data collection.

In the afternoon the congress started with a lot of enthusiasm from all participants and attendees. During the SEOVET we could enjoy presentations given by Eva Abarca (HV Canis de Mallorca), Manolo Villagrasa (COV, HV Puchol de Madrid), Màrian Matas (Memvet de Palma), Paco Simó (IVO de Barcelona), Ángel Ortillés (Anicura Valencia Sur de Valencia) and Fernando Sanz (Visionvet de Sevilla).

The SEOVET management knew how to organize a truly dynamic, educational and entertaining conference where all veterinarians could learn the latest developments in their field and at the same time fully enjoy the company and gastronomy.

Dr+Vet had the opportunity to present directly to a specialized audience the improved version of our products GLAUCO+ and OCCULUS+.

Glauco+

One of our presentations was Glauco+, a nutritional supplement designed to address the progression of glaucoma in pets. The improved formula, which includes neuroprotective and vasodilator components in addition to citicoline, has attracted a great deal of interest from ophthalmology veterinarians who had long been asking for this improvement over the Glauco formula.

Occulus+

We also share the improvements in Occulus+. With the addition of key nutritional elements and an improved formulation with alpha lipoic acid, Occulus+ reinforces its antioxidant effect on the crystalline lens.

This year at Dr+Vet we have no plans to put on the brakes, so we are already looking forward to the next big event: Iberzoo+Propet. See you again at IFEMA Madrid from March 13-15!

Dr+Vet

16/Jan/2024

When our pets get older, just like us, they start to require some special care and also a more exhaustive veterinary follow-up than during the rest of their lives.

From approximately 8 years of age, we recommend an annual visit where the veterinarian can check the weight, general physical condition, perform analytical or other tests if necessary. In these controls can be diagnosed diseases that do not yet have clinical signs and in which early treatment can slow the progression or development of such disease.

In this article we are going to focus on the most common vision defect in geriatric pets: cataracts. One of the most frequent ocular affections we see in the veterinary practice are cataracts. The origin of these cataracts is usually associated with age and degeneration of the crystalline lens due to the increase of its layers and the oxidative damage it suffers during its life. Other causes of cataracts can be diabetes mellitus, blows or trauma, congenital/hereditary or retinal atrophy.

How does a cataract form?
The crystalline lens is a lens formed by several layers located inside the eye, its function is to concentrate light so that it is properly projected on the retina. With the passage of time and the natural aging process, the lens tends to accumulate additional layers. This gradual process of layer accumulation can cause the lens to become denser and less transparent.

How do we detect that our pet has cataracts?
At home we can suspect the presence of cataracts and it will be the veterinarian who will confirm the diagnosis and will be able to tell us what treatment we can offer to our pet. If detected and treated in time, cataracts should not be a problem. At home we will be able to see a certain whitish or bluish opacity (at the beginning) in the crystalline lens. If the cataract is more advanced, we will clearly see the opacity or that the animal is hitting obstacles it may encounter due to the difficulty of vision.

In early stages (A,B), when it is not yet mature, there are still non-surgical treatment options such as dietary supplementation with vitamins and antioxidants to slow the onset of cataracts. Specialized nutritional supplements such as Occulus+ from Dr+Vet could be used to provide vitamins A, C, E and antioxidant minerals to slow the progression of the disease.

Once the cataract has evolved (C), a specialist veterinarian will indicate the best surgical solution, after an exhaustive review of the pet’s health and vision. Cataracts are an operable disease with a high success rate (around 90%). Post-surgical recovery usually takes a few days with anti-inflammatory eye drops and antibiotics until medical discharge.

Phases of cataract

Figure 1. Phases of cataract in dogs: A. Initial phase B. Immature cataract Immature cataract C. Mature cataract (point of surgery).
As the lens becomes less transparent and light can no longer pass through it clearly. In simple terms, the additional layers in the lens alter its original structure causing irreversible damage that affects its ability to focus light properly on the retina.

The Dr+Vet formula: Occulus+
As mentioned above, Dr+Vet offers the nutritional supplement Occulus+ recently reformulated to increase its antioxidant potential with alpha lipoic acid. This product contains abundant vitamins, minerals and antioxidant components that promote overall eye health and help slow disease progression.

Dr+Vet

14/Dec/2023

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a condition of the ocular surface (cornea and conjunctiva) secondary to a deficiency of one of the phases of the tear film and has a prevalence in dogs of 0.4%, according to the IVO.

Qualitative QCS is characterized by a pathological decrease of lipid or mucoid components in the tear film. This leads to tear hyperosmolarity due to increased evaporation. It is more common in brachiocephalic breeds and in cases of lagophthalmos.

In this study, conducted in collaboration with the Instituto Veterinario Oftalmologico (IVO), a comprehensive evaluation of different therapeutic approaches for qualitative QCS was performed.

Ten dogs were selected, including five brachiocephalic breeds, with a two-month follow-up. The selected patients had blepharospasm, epiphora, increased serous secretions compared to normal, or a combination of these symptoms at the first visit and, in order to be included in the present study, had to have Schirmer’s test (STT-1) values above 10 mm/min.

Cases with corneal ulcer and those under treatment that could interfere with the diagnostic tests were excluded. A series of diagnostic tests were performed, such as Schirmer’s test (STT-1), fluorescein test, break-up time (TBUT), lissamine green test, impression cytology (CIC) and OSA-VET®.

The selected treatment included the use of topical moisturizers and lubricants as tear replacements. In addition, Dr+Vet’s Lacrimalis food supplement, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lactoferrin, vitamins C and E, Zinc and Copper, was implemented.

The results indicated significant improvements in print cytology, interferometry and tear film breakup time. There was a slight reduction in tear production, possibly attributed to decreased compensatory reflex due to hyperosmolarity.

Conclusions

This clinical case comparison underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the management of qualitative QCS. The combination of topical moisturizers and lubricants with the supplement Lacrimalis offers a promising perspective in the management of this condition.

The clinical case comparison performed by the IVO provides a valuable contribution to the approach to qualitative QCS in dogs. We thank Drs. Maria Simó and Francisco Simó for their collaboration in this first approach to the use of nutraceuticals in ocular diseases in dogs.

You can consult the comparative of clinical cases here (in spanish): COMPARATIVA DE 10 CASOS CLÍNICOS EN PERROS CON KCS CUALITATIVA

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Dr+Vet

28/Apr/2022

Today we will talk to you about one of the most common eye pathologies in dogs: dry eye disease or Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca.

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca is an inflammatory disease of the ocular surface (cornea and conjunctiva) secondary to the deficiency of some of the phases of the tear film and which generates tear hyperosmolarity. This hyperosmolarity and increased friction will lead to secondary infections, dehydration and malnutrition of the cornea and conjunctiva and will increase the likelihood of corneal ulcerations. In turn, chronic inflammation of the ocular surface will also end up generating conjunctival hyperemia, hyperkeratinization and thickening of the corneal epithelium, corneal vascularization with increased migration of inflammatory cells and the deposition of pigment, lipids and calcium. The prognosis is usually favorable, although it will depend on the cause of the disease and whether effective treatment is implemented early and individualized for each patient.

There are two main classifications of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca:

Qualitative: Pathological decrease in the lipid or mucoid components of the tear film. In this case, the lacrimal gland is functional and the hyperosmolarity of the tear is due to an increase in its evaporation. The cause of this type of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca may be damage or acute/chronic inflammation in the meibomian glands and/or the goblet cells of the conjunctiva, such as in cases of infectious blepharitis, seborrheic dermatitis, etc.
Quantitative: Pathological decrease in the aqueous component of the tear film. In this case, hyperosmolarity is due to reduced secretion of the aqueous component under normal evaporation conditions. This is the most common initial presentation in dogs, although in most cases, a vicious circle is generated in which the other types of components of the tear film are also affected.

The causes of Quantitative Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca are varied, such as infectious diseases, endocrine diseases, systemic immune-mediated/autoimmune diseases, iatrogenic (surgical), etc. although the most common is localized and chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the lacrimal gland (immune-mediated adenitis). There are breeds of dogs and cats that are more predisposed, as we already mentioned in one of our previous posts on our social networks (Instagram and Linkedin), such as brachiocephalic breeds, West Highland White Terriers, Cocker Spaniels and American , etc.

The symptoms that may occur are: very characteristic mucous exudate, conjunctival hyperemia, opaque cornea, with neovascularization, corneal edema and ulceration, etc.

To reach a diagnosis, we will have to be attentive to the patient’s anamnesis and clinical history, perform a general and ophthalmoscopic examination, if we suspect systemic pathologies, general analytical and other complementary tests and followed by ophthalmological tests: Shirmer test, Fluorescein, Lysamine Green Test, TBUT (Tear Break-up Time), Impression Cytology and Osavet Test.

There are various types of systemic and topical medical treatments such as artificial tears (there is a wide variety), topical immunosuppressants, etc. and in most cases they can be applied together. Additionally, if there are secondary problems such as infections or corneal ulcers, these will also need to be treated. There are also surgical procedures such as parathyroid duct transposition, among others.

Another essential asset to help improve the symptoms of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, of which studies have already been carried out in dogs and which has others being carried out to demonstrate its effectiveness, will be supplementation with specific nutraceuticals such as Lacrimalis, rich in Omega-Fatty Acids. 3 that will improve the quality, stability and tear secretion, Lactoferrin with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties on the ocular surface and antioxidants such as Vitamins E and C and the minerals Zinc and Copper.

From Dr+Vet Pet Care by Böthmen Pharma, we will present each of the different ophthalmological tests that we have mentioned little by little over the following weeks together with the Veterinary Ophthalmological Institute (IVO) so that you can learn more about them. lose!

Blog y noticias

Retinae: Nutraceuticals for the Retina of pets, dogs and cats

Retinae and RetinaeXL Ingredients

New: Introducing RetinaeXL for larger dogs

We can now announce the new presentation of Retinae!

What is RetinaeXL?

How does RetinaeXL work?

The benefits of RetinaeXL:

Where to get RetinaeXL?

[Video] Dry eye disease: Schirmer test is not the only thing we look for!

About Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca in dogs and cats: Causes, symptoms and treatments

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), also known as “dry eye,” is a common ophthalmic condition in dogs and cats that affects the ocular surface, specifically the cornea and conjunctiva.

The structure of the tear

KCS classification

Dr+Vet participated in Iberzoo-Propet AMVAC 2024

Dr+Vet sponsors the XIII Veterinary Ophthalmology Congress SEOVET 2024

Geriatric eye diseases: Cataracts in older pets

The Instituto Veterinario Oftalmológico (IVO) performs a comparison of clinical cases with Dr+Vet’s nutraceutical Lacrimalis in 10 dogs and evaluating the tear film.

Key points of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

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