Black and white senior mutt with red bandanna sits in grassy field and smiles with eyes closed

Tails from the Clinic: Marley Nelson

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Marley, a 6-year-old mix breed, came to the veterinary clinic with severe vomiting and diarrhea due to chronic liver failure. He was placed on IV fluid therapy (Lactated Ringers/Saline) for fluid loss and was given anti-diarrhea, anti-emesis, and antibiotic medication intravenously over the course of 5 days.

He responded well, and his IV catheter was removed on the fifth day. (Due to Marley’s temperament, his IV catheter was not changed in the recommended 3-day window per owner request.) After Marley was taken home, the owner noticed the catheter site was red and irritated. Marley continued to lick the site, disrupting the skin even further. Catheter sites are prone to bacterial infections that can become systemic if not treated promptly.

The owner applied Lavengel to the irritated site twice daily for 5 days. Marley continued to lick the area periodically after Lavengel was applied. There was a significant improvement after the 2nd to 3rd application of the gel. The redness decreased, Marley did not chew or lick the area (suggesting decrease in pain and itching), and the site began to heal.

Marley is a temperamental patient that does not like his legs or feet to be touched. His owner was able to apply the Lavengel without assistance, and he responded beautifully to it. His owner was extremely pleased with the outcome. Having Lavengel on hand enabled her to treat the site at home, avoid another stressful trip to the vet, and further antibiotic treatments.

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About the Author

Tasha Nelson, M.S., Researcher and Veterinary Assistant

Tasha Nelson Phillips is a veterinary assistant and researcher. She began her work in veterinary medicine in 2014 at a small practice in East Tennessee. She has a B.S. in Biology as well as a Master’s degree in Microbiology from East Tennessee State University. Her undergraduate and graduate research focused on Lavengel®, exploring its efficacy and mechanism of action against common bacterial species.

Tasha’s interests focus on natural antimicrobial options and exploring novel compounds to combat antibiotic resistance. She continues to work in small animal emergency and critical care medicine. She spends her free time with her husband and three furry babies in their East Tennessee home.