ABVT case studies
ABVT · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The American Board of Veterinary Toxicology (ABVT) is a veterinary specialty organization recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association, established in 1967 as the first professional organization to provide certification in toxicology. As a non-profit educational organization, the board administers a specialty certification examination to qualified veterinarians, and its credentialing process is intended to ensure that animal and human lives are protected by veterinarians with expertise in veterinary toxicology. The ABVT case studies are 5 cases and about 3,555 words.
1Bracken Fern and the Thiamine-Deficient Horse
A 9-year-old Quarter Horse gelding is presented in late summer with a two-week history of weight loss, dullness, and progressive incoordination. He is pastured with three other horses on 12 acres of sparse, overgrazed forage heavily infested with bracken fern.
677 words, about 3 min2The Vomiting Dog and the Chocolate Bar
A 14 kg mixed-breed dog is brought to an emergency clinic 90 minutes after eating an unknown quantity of dark chocolate. The owner estimates 'about half a large bar.' The dog is restless, panting, and has had two episodes of vomiting.
712 words, about 4 min3The Goat, the Antifreeze, and the Ethylene Glycol Dilemma
A 3-year-old dairy goat doe is found recumbent and trembling in the barn. The owner reports she had access to a spilled jug of antifreeze (ethylene glycol) approximately 10 hours ago.
738 words, about 4 min4The Lead-Painted Barn and the Beef Herd
A cow-calf producer calls because three calves in a 60-head herd have become blind, head-pressing, and circling over the past week. One died and was necropsied elsewhere; the report noted 'no gross lesions.' The calves are on a pasture adjacent to an old barn with peeling paint and a discarded battery pile.
710 words, about 4 min5The Cat, the Lily, and the Azotemia Timeline
A 4 kg indoor cat is presented 18 hours after the owner noticed it chewing leaves of a bouquet containing Easter lilies. The cat is lethargic, vomiting, and not eating.
718 words, about 4 min