Abstract:
Two dogs were seen at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya, both having histories
of dyspnoea, progressively enlarging abdomens, anasarca, ascites, pleural and pericardial effusion,
and pulmonary oedema. One of the dogs had a mild neutrophilic leucocytosis, elevated levels of alkaline
phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and proteinuria. Histopathological examination
of the myocardium revealed some damage to myocytes and a mononuclear cellular infiltration
involving the myocardium, liver and kidneys. The two dogs had a fondness for avocado fruits and, as
the presenting syndrome is identical to that seen in goats, sheep and horses poisoned by avocados,
a comparison is made and the probable manifestation of this poisoning presented.