WEBINAR: Use of advanced imaging techniques to determine spinal disease in birds
At The Gabriel Foundation, we receive many different species of birds of diverse sizes and ages. With our large flock, we find that we are treating more and more birds that have varying stages of arthritis diagnoses. Understanding more about how this impacts each individual bird is important to their overall health and wellness which in turn can manifest in behavioral changes. TGF is most fortunate to share the wisdom of Dr. Echol’s work regarding spinal disease in birds. There is always so much to be learned about ways in which to give our birds the best lives possible.
Abstract:
Arthritis is frequently encountered in both traditional (cats and dogs) and non-traditional (rodents, rabbits, birds and reptiles) pet species. This presentation will focus on how new advanced imaging technology has better revealed arthritis, including spinal disorders previously rarely discussed, in birds. Use of advanced imaging in other animals with arthritis will also be presented. Arthritis may lead to vague up to overt signs of pain- all of which may affect an animal’s behavior. As reported in lab rodents, behavioral disorders may have adverse effects on study outcomes and may be present in birds. By better diagnosing, understanding and treating arthritis, behavior disorder outcomes may be improved which can have both positive animal welfare and study results.
Bio:
Dr. M Scott Echols lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA and is a board-certified avian specialist veterinarian working primarily in the US. Dr. Echols graduated from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 1995 and completed his residency in avian medicine and surgery at the Medical Center for Birds in 1999. He is an internationally recognized author, speaker, researcher, adjunct professor, visiting professor, and practitioner. His artwork has been featured on several magazine covers and in numerous galleries in the US, Europe, and other locations. Awards include Recipient of the TJ Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year Award, 2005; Recipient of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association 2007 Non-Traditional Species Practitioner of the Year Award; Wellcome Images Award 2017 Finalist and Texas A&M 2018 Distinguished Alumnus Award. Dr. Echols has numerous inventions in the field of imaging which are currently being used in animal and human medicine. Dr. Echols splits his time between private practice, research, education, and outdoor activities.
Scott Echols, DVM, Diplomate ABVP- Avian Practice
Mobile Avian Surgical Services
The Medical Center for Birds
www.medicalcenterforbirds.com