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Category: VETGuardian PLUS

Veterinarian Examining Beagle in Veterinary Clinic Setting
02/02/2026
ecallenPost-OpVETGuardian PLUS

How Contactless Monitoring Technology is Transforming Veterinary Care 

Veterinary medicine is embracing innovation at an unprecedented pace, and one of the most transformative technologies to emerge is contactless vital signs monitoring. Traditionally, measuring heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature requires physical contact—often causing stress for pets and consuming valuable time for veterinary teams. Contactless monitoring changes this dynamic by enabling accurate, noninvasive measurement of vital signs without touching the animal. This advancement is revolutionizing patient care, improving efficiency, and enhancing the overall veterinary experience. 

 

The stress-reduction benefits of contactless monitoring extend across all companion animal species. Cats, which often experience significant stress from restraint and handling in clinical settings, benefit particularly from monitoring methods that don’t require direct contact. Exotic pets—including rabbits, birds, and reptiles—can be monitored more safely without the risks associated with manual restraint of fragile or easily stressed species. Even cooperative canine patients benefit from the streamlined workflow that contactless systems provide during routine wellness examinations.

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What is Contactless Monitoring for Veterinary Patients?

Contactless monitoring uses advanced sensors and imaging technologies to measure physiological parameters without direct physical interaction.  Methods include: 

  • Thermal imaging: Detect body temperature through heat signatures 
  • Radar and LiDAR sensors: Measure micromovements associated with breathing and heart rate 
  • Computer vision and AI: Analyze subtle changes in body posture, chest movement, and facial cues to interpret animal status 

 These contactless monitoring systems vary in complexity and application. Some platforms offer real-time continuous surveillance suitable for intensive care units and recovery areas, while others provide on-demand vital signs collection during routine examinations. The technology can be adapted to different clinical environments—from traditional exam rooms to isolation wards where minimizing staff entry is critical. As these systems become more sophisticated, they’re increasingly capable of monitoring multiple patients simultaneously, making them practical even for busy multi-doctor practices. 

Clinical Benefits of Contactless Monitoring in Veterinary Practice

Animals often experience stress during veterinary visits, which can skew vital signs and complicate diagnosis. Contactless monitoring helps address these challenges by: 

  • Reducing stress caused by restraint or invasive probes 
  • Improving accuracy by capturing data while patients remain calm 
  • Enhancing safety by minimizing the risk of injury to staff and patients 
  • Saving valuable time by streamlining clinical workflows 

This technology proves particularly valuable for feline patients, exotic species, and any animals that become aggressive or fearful when handled. Traditional vital signs collection often requires multiple staff members to restrain anxious patients, which can elevate heart rate and respiratory rate—the very parameters being measured. Contactless systems eliminate this paradox by allowing animals to remain in a relatively calm state during data collection. For veterinary technicians and assistants who face injury risk from fractious patients, contactless monitoring also represents a meaningful safety improvement that can reduce workplace injuries and associated costs. 

The benefits extend beyond the clinic, improving the overall experience for pet owners while supporting better patient outcomes, early detection of health concerns, and improved operational efficiency for veterinary teams. 

Practical Applications of Contactless Monitoring Technology

There are several clinical applications for contactless monitoring in veterinary settings. Postsurgical recovery and critical care patients, in particular, can benefit from more frequent or continuous vital signs monitoring without disruption. Isolation wards offer another valuable use case, with the potential to reduce staff exposure and lower PPE costs. Overnight monitoring—especially in rural or understaffed clinics—can be enhanced through imaging-based systems and smart device alerts that provide peace of mind and rapid response capabilities. 

In post-surgical settings, contactless monitoring technology allows veterinary teams to track recovery patterns without repeatedly disturbing anesthetized or painful patients. Animals recovering from procedures can rest undisturbed while staff receive continuous or interval updates on vital signs, enabling early detection of complications like hypothermia, respiratory depression, or emerging cardiovascular concerns. This hands-off approach is especially beneficial for orthopedic surgery patients where minimizing movement during initial recovery is critical. 

For isolation ward applications, the technology offers dual benefits: protecting staff from infectious disease exposure while ensuring patients receive adequate monitoring despite limited direct contact. During disease outbreaks or when managing highly contagious cases, contactless systems enable vital signs collection without the time, expense, and environmental impact of repeatedly donning and doffing protective equipment. Emergency and specialty hospitals managing infectious disease cases have found this capability particularly valuable for maintaining both biosecurity protocols and high standards of patient monitoring. 

Implementation Considerations for Veterinary Practices

While promising, contactless monitoring does come with practical considerations that veterinary practices should evaluate before implementation: 

  • Cost and accessibility: Advanced sensors may represent a significant initial investment. Practices need to assess how these systems will integrate with existing practice management software and medical records platforms, which may require additional technical infrastructure or IT support. 
  • Training requirements: Practices need to assess how these systems will integrate with existing practice management software and medical records platforms, which may require additional technical infrastructure or IT support. 
  • Environmental factors: Lighting conditions, patient movement, and positioning can impact readings. Certain patients may present additional challenges—heavily coated breeds, very small animals, or patients with specific coat colors can sometimes interfere with sensor readings. For these reasons, practices should maintain traditional monitoring capabilities as backup methods when contactless systems may not provide reliable data. 

The Future of Contactless Veterinary Monitoring Technology

Despite these challenges, contactless vital signs monitoring represents far more than convenience—it is a meaningful leap forward in veterinary care. By reducing stress, improving accuracy, and enabling proactive health management, this technology strengthens the human-animal bond and elevates the standard of care. As adoption continues to grow, veterinarians who embrace these tools will be well positioned to lead the future of compassionate, efficient, and cutting-edge medicine. 

 

©2026 Zomedica Inc. All rights reserved. 

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09/19/2025
ecallenPost-OpVETGuardian PLUS

Revolutionizing Veterinary Care: The Power of Continuous Vital Signs Monitoring

Post-operative monitoring represents one of the highest-risk periods in veterinary medicine, with up to 47% of anesthetic-related deaths in dogs and 60% in cats occurring during recovery. Traditional intermittent monitoring methods leave dangerous gaps in patient surveillance, particularly during the critical first three hours post-surgery. The VETGuardian® monitoring system revolutionizes veterinary patient care through continuous, non-contact vital signs monitoring that enhances safety while reducing staff workload. 

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The Critical Gap in Post-Operative Veterinary Monitoring

The transition from anesthesia to recovery creates a dangerous window of vulnerability. Despite consistent monitoring during surgical procedures, the recovery period is frequently marked by reduced vigilance and intermittent observation schedules. 

Alarming Statistics: 

  • 47% of anesthetic-related deaths in dogs occur postoperatively 
  • 60% of anesthetic-related deaths in cats happen during recovery 
  • First three hours represent the highest-risk period 
  • 10-15 minute monitoring intervals leave significant data gaps 

Clinical Reality: Vital signs are dynamic indicators of health, and sudden changes may signal infection, hemorrhage, shock, or adverse treatment reactions. Traditional spot-checking methods simply cannot capture the real-time changes needed for optimal patient safety. 

Professional Guidelines Supporting Continuous Monitoring

American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) 2020 Guidelines advocate for uninterrupted observation to promptly address complications during the recovery phase. 

American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists (ACVA) 2025 Guidelines reinforce the need for continuous monitoring throughout recovery, emphasizing critical parameters including: 

  • Heart rate (HR) monitoring 
  • Respiratory rate (RR) assessment 
  • Oxygen saturation (SpO₂) tracking 
  • Blood pressure (BP) measurement 
  • Temperature monitoring 

Limitations of Traditional Veterinary Monitoring Methods

Current methods for measuring vital signs require physical contact and manual effort, creating multiple problems for veterinary practices: 

Temperature Monitoring Issues: 

  • Rectal thermometers require handling and stress patients 
  • Aural devices need patient cooperation and proper positioning 
  • Contact methods interrupt rest periods essential for recovery 

Respiratory Rate Assessment Problems: 

  • Visual observation is subjective and intermittent 
  • Capnography requires intubation and equipment attachment 
  • Manual counting interrupts patient rest and recovery 

Pulse Monitoring Limitations: 

  • Stethoscope assessment requires trained staff availability 
  • Telemetry systems use leads that can fall off or tangle 
  • Palpation methods stress patients and provide only snapshot data 

Patient Safety and Workflow Issues

Equipment-Related Risks: 

  • Leads and attachments can be chewed or tangled 
  • Device malfunction creates safety hazards 
  • Patient movement can dislodge monitoring equipment 
  • Staff injury risk from fractious patients during handling 

Staffing and Efficiency Challenges: 

  • 10-15 minute monitoring intervals require constant staff attention 
  • Manual data recording increases documentation time 
  • Night shift monitoring often has reduced staffing levels 
  • Critical gaps occur during shift changes and emergencies 

Advanced Technology: The VETGuardian® Monitoring System

The VETGuardian device represents a breakthrough in veterinary patient monitoring, utilizing advanced sensor fusion technology to provide continuous vital signs monitoring without patient contact. 

Core Technology Components: 

  • Continuous Wave Doppler Radar: Detects heart and lung activity through non-contact signal acquisition 
  • Infrared Thermography: Radiation-free surface temperature detection for inflammation monitoring
  • LiDAR Technology: Uses pulsed lasers for precise motion detection unaffected by lighting conditions 
  • RGB Camera Integration: Provides 24/7 video monitoring for behavioral assessment 
  • Artificial Intelligence: Real-time data analysis and pattern recognition 

VETGuardian System Capabilities

Vital Signs Monitoring: 

  • Heart rate tracking every five minutes with continuous assessment 
  • Respiratory rate monitoring through non-contact signal detection 
  • Temperature measurement via infrared thermography technology 
  • Activity level assessment through motion detection algorithms 

Advanced Features: 

  • Smartphone accessibility for remote monitoring capabilities 
  • Multi-device compatibility with laptops and computer systems 
  • Real-time data collection eliminates monitoring gaps 
  • Automated documentation reduces manual recording requirements 

Evidence-Based Benefits of Continuous Monitoring

Human Medicine Validation: The TRaCINg feasibility trial demonstrated that patients receiving continuous remote monitoring experienced: 

  • Fewer unplanned critical care admissions 
  • Shorter hospital stays compared to intermittent monitoring 
  • Earlier intervention for developing complications 

Veterinary Medicine Evidence: A 2023 validation study of the VETGuardian device showed equal or superior accuracy compared to traditional contact monitoring devices, reinforcing the value of non-invasive continuous monitoring in veterinary patients. 

Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation (APSF) Conclusions: Professional analysis concluded that spot checks are inadequate for patient safety, advocating for continuous electronic monitoring to improve outcomes, especially for patients receiving postoperative medications. 

Clinical Benefits for Veterinary Practices

Patient Safety Improvements: 

  • Real-time distress detection enables immediate intervention 
  • Early deterioration identification prevents critical complications 
  • Reduced handling stress improves patient comfort and recovery 
  • Continuous surveillance eliminates dangerous monitoring gaps 

Practice Efficiency Enhancements: 

  • Automated data collection reduces staff workload 
  • Remote access capability enables off-site monitoring 
  • Reduced bite risk with fractious patients through contactless monitoring 
  • Staff time optimization for other critical care activities 

Quality of Care Advancement: 

  • Increased monitoring accuracy minimizes human error 
  • Personalized care protocols based on continuous data trends 
  • Improved treatment efficacy through timely intervention 
  • Enhanced client confidence in advanced care capabilities 

Implementation Benefits for Veterinary Practices

Staffing Efficiency: The VETGuardian® monitoring system eliminates the need for constant physical patient checks, allowing staff to focus on other critical care activities while maintaining comprehensive patient surveillance. 

Overnight Monitoring Solutions: Particularly valuable for overnight stays and isolation ward patients, the system provides continuous monitoring without requiring constant staff presence, improving both patient care and operational efficiency. 

Risk Reduction: 

  • Eliminates wake-up effect from frequent patient handling 
  • Reduces staff injury risk from aggressive or fearful patients 
  • Prevents equipment displacement through contactless monitoring 
  • Minimizes cross-contamination in isolation situations 

The Future of Veterinary Patient Monitoring

Emerging Technology Trends 

Artificial Intelligence Integration: Advanced AI algorithms continue improving pattern recognition and predictive capabilities, enabling earlier intervention and more precise patient assessment. 

Sensor Technology Advancement: Next-generation sensors provide even greater accuracy and expanded monitoring parameters while maintaining the non-contact advantages of current systems. 

Connectivity and Integration: Enhanced integration with practice management systems and electronic medical records streamlines documentation and improves workflow efficiency. 

Professional Standards Evolution 

Guideline Development: Professional organizations increasingly emphasize continuous monitoring standards, making advanced systems like VETGuardian device essential for maintaining best practice compliance. 

Accreditation Requirements: Hospital accreditation programs may soon require continuous monitoring capabilities for certain patient categories, making early adoption strategically advantageous. 

Taking Action: Transform Your Practice Monitoring Capabilities

Why Choose the VETGuardian Monitoring System 

Proven Technology Advantages:

✓ Non-contact monitoring eliminates patient stress and handling risks 
✓ Continuous data collection provides comprehensive patient surveillance 
✓ Advanced sensor fusion delivers superior accuracy and reliability 
✓ Remote accessibility enables monitoring from any location 
✓ Professional validation through peer-reviewed research studies 
✓ Easy integration with existing practice workflows 
✓ Comprehensive training and ongoing technical support 
✓ Competitive differentiation through advanced care capabilities 

Ready to Enhance Your Patient Monitoring Standards?

Don’t let traditional monitoring gaps compromise patient safety during critical recovery periods. Join progressive veterinary practices implementing continuous monitoring technology for superior patient outcomes and practice efficiency. 

© 2025 Zomedica, Inc. All rights reserved. 

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09/12/2025
ecallenPost-OpVETGuardian PLUS

Veterinary Monitoring Equipment for BOAS Surgery: Post-Operative Care Solutions 

Based on clinical insights from Dr. Shadi Ireifej’s webinar on Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome* 

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) affects up to 100% of certain flat-faced dog breeds, making post-operative monitoring critical for successful outcomes. With complication rates ranging from 0-29.5%, veterinary practices need advanced monitoring solutions to detect respiratory distress early and prevent life-threatening complications. The VETGuardian® remote monitoring system is transforming how veterinary professionals manage these challenging respiratory cases. 

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Understanding BOAS: A Complex Veterinary Challenge

Canine brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome represents multiple anatomical abnormalities requiring specialized post-surgical monitoring protocols. This multifaceted condition demands continuous respiratory assessment to ensure optimal recovery outcomes. 

Primary BOAS Conditions Requiring Monitoring

Upper Airway Abnormalities: 

  • Elongated soft palate: 62-100% incidence rate 
  • Stenotic nares: Affects 17-94% of brachycephalic dogs 
  • Hypoplastic trachea: Present in 11-46% of cases 
  • Nasopharyngeal stenosis: Nasal turbinate abnormalities in 20-100% 

Secondary Complications: 

  • Everted laryngeal saccules: Develops in 39-87% of patients 
  • Laryngeal collapse: Progressive condition affecting up to 53% 
  • Everted tonsils: Occurs in 5-56% of cases 

These interconnected abnormalities create a cascade of breathing difficulties that require precise post-operative respiratory monitoring to prevent life-threatening complications. 

Post-Surgical Monitoring Challenges in BOAS Cases

Complex Anatomical Considerations 

Brachycephalic breeds present unique monitoring challenges due to their distinctive anatomy: 

Structural Abnormalities Affecting Monitoring: 

  • Shortened skull length with wider configuration 
  • Smaller glottic index and elliptical larynx shape 
  • Reduced nasopharynx dimensions 
  • Longer, thicker soft palate positioned more caudally 
  • Macroglossia (enlarged tongue) 
  • Decreased buccal opening 

Breathing Pattern Complications: 

  • Slow inspirations with rapid expiratory phases 
  • Open mouth breathing dependency 
  • Increased respiratory noise generation 
  • Temperature regulation difficulties 

Post-Surgical Respiratory Risks

BOAS surgery recovery presents specific monitoring challenges that require continuous assessment: 

Immediate Complications (0-29.5% incidence): 

  • Laryngeal swelling and inflammation 
  • Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema 
  • Bronchopneumonia development 
  • Respiratory distress episodes 
  • Hemorrhage and incisional dehiscence 
  • Voice changes and regurgitation 

Critical Monitoring Parameters: 

  • Respiratory rate patterns and effort assessment 
  • Temperature regulation monitoring 
  • Activity level and exercise tolerance 
  • Pain indicators affecting breathing patterns 

Traditional Veterinary Monitoring Limitations

Manual Assessment Challenges 

Stress-Induced Complications: Traditional hands-on monitoring can exacerbate breathing difficulties in BOAS patients who are already compromised by: 

  • Increased anxiety from frequent handling 
  • Elevated respiratory rates during examination 
  • Temperature elevation from stress 
  • Potential for respiratory crisis during restraint 

Intermittent Data Collection Issues: 

  • Spot-checking limitations: Brief assessments miss breathing pattern changes 
  • Subjective interpretations: Manual monitoring varies between staff members 
  • Sleep disruption: Essential rest periods interrupted for vital sign checks 
  • Documentation gaps: Inconsistent recording of respiratory parameters 

Staffing Resource Constraints: Many veterinary practices struggle with 24/7 monitoring capabilities, creating dangerous gaps during critical recovery periods when respiratory complications often develop. 

Advanced Solutions: The VETGuardian Monitoring System

Telediagnostics is a rapidly emerging and powerful tool evolving in the veterinary space. The VETGuardian telediagnostic device by Zomedica addresses BOAS-specific challenges with continuous monitoring capabilities designed for respiratory assessment. 

Touchless Monitoring Technology

Continuous Vital Sign Detection: The VETGuardian system continuously monitors body temperature, pulse rate and respiratory rate with thermal cameras and doppler technology, and monitors movement via video camera. 

Key Technology Features: 

  • Doppler radar technology: Precise respiratory measurements without patient contact 
  • Thermal imaging: Continuous temperature monitoring critical for brachycephalic heat regulation 
  • Video surveillance: Visual breathing pattern assessment 
  • Multi-patient capability: Multiple animals can be monitored simultaneously 

Clinical Advantage: Measuring vital parameters while eliminating patient physical contact minimizes patient stress and anxiety—essential for BOAS patients who struggle with breathing under normal conditions. 

Professional Implementation Benefits

Practice Efficiency Improvements: 

  • Monitor multiple BOAS recovery patients simultaneously 
  • Reduce staffing requirements for overnight monitoring 
  • Eliminate stress-induced complications from frequent handling 
  • Provide objective data for clinical decision-making 

Enhanced Patient Care: 

  • Continuous respiratory pattern analysis 
  • Early detection of breathing effort changes 
  • Real-time temperature regulation monitoring 
  • Comprehensive activity level assessment 

VETGuardian System vs Traditional BOAS Monitoring

Advanced Features for Respiratory Care

Continuous Assessment Capabilities 

Doppler Technology Applications: 

  • Respiratory rhythm irregularity detection 
  • Breathing effort quantification monitoring 
  • Rest vs. active breathing pattern comparisons 
  • Sleep-disordered breathing identification 

Thermal Camera Benefits: 

  • Continuous temperature regulation assessment 
  • Heat stress detection in brachycephalic breeds 
  • Inflammation monitoring around surgical sites 
  • Activity level correlation with temperature changes 

Custom Alert Systems for BOAS Cases 

Respiratory-Specific Monitoring Alerts: 

  • Respiratory rate threshold notifications 
  • Breathing pattern irregularity warnings 
  • Temperature elevation alerts 
  • Activity level decrease indicators 

Professional Protocol Integration: 

  • Immediate notifications for critical parameter changes 
  • Tiered alert systems for different severity levels 
  • Integration with on-call veterinarian communication systems 
  • Automated documentation of alert events and responses 

The Future of Advanced Respiratory Monitoring

Discover how the VETGuardian device can transform your BOAS surgery outcomes and practice efficiency. Our veterinary technology specialists understand the unique challenges of respiratory monitoring and are ready to help you implement this breakthrough solution. 

Visit zomedicadev.com to explore the VETGuardian system’s respiratory monitoring capabilities! The future of brachycephalic airway surgery monitoring is here—continuous, stress-free, and more precise than traditional methods. 

*Dr. Ireifej was paid by Zomedica, Inc. to present this webinar 

© 2025 Zomedica, Inc. All rights reserved. 

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08/20/2025
ecallenVETGuardian PLUS

Emergency Splenic Mass Surgery: Critical Insights for Veterinary Practice

Key takeaways from Dr. Shadi Ireifej’s comprehensive webinar on acute non-traumatic spontaneous hemoperitoneum.

When a large breed dog presents in hemorrhagic shock with a distended abdomen, every second counts. In his recent webinar for veterinary professionals, Dr. Shadi Ireifej, DVM, DACVS, delivers crucial insights for managing these critical cases—from initial diagnostics through post-operative monitoring. 

The Reality Check: It's Usually Cancer, But Not Always

Dr. Ireifej presents sobering statistics: splenic masses account for 3-5% of all cancers in dogs over 8 years, with malignancy rates of 64-80%. While hemangiosarcoma dominates these cases, he emphasizes a critical point: you cannot definitively diagnose malignancy without complete splenectomy and histopathology. 

“Even when hepatic nodules appear on ultrasound alongside a splenic mass, benign disease remains possible. This uncertainty makes honest client communication essential.” —Dr. Ireifej 

Setting Realistic Expectations: Dr. Ireifej's Prognosis Guidelines

Understanding survival statistics helps guide both surgical decisions and client discussions: 

Hemangiosarcoma Prognosis: 

  • Stage 1: ~151 days | Stage 2: ~107 days | Stage 3: ~73 days 
  • Surgery alone: ~2 months | Surgery + chemotherapy: ~172 days 

Benign Disease: Essentially curative with excellent long-term survival (85% at one year) 

Diagnostic Priorities: What Dr. Ireifej Focuses On

CBC Red Flags That Guide Decisions 
Dr. Ireifej identifies thrombocytopenia in 75% of hemoperitoneum cases, often causing surgical hesitation. He explains: “I believe the thrombocytopenia is due to acute hemorrhage and not necessarily a coagulopathy per se.” 

Red flags Dr. Ireifej watches for: 

  • Leukocytosis with neutrophilia 
  • Non-regenerative anemia with schistocytes 
  • Ventricular arrhythmias (25-45% of hemangiosarcoma cases) 

Dr. Ireifej’s Smart Imaging Strategy 
Don’t delay surgery for extensive imaging in time-sensitive cases. Dr. Ireifej does insist on thoracic radiographs to detect cardiac silhouette changes, pleural effusion, metastatic disease, and sternal lymphadenopathy. 

Dr. Ireifej's Emergency Splenectomy Protocol

The Non-Negotiable: Complete Splenectomy Always 
Dr. Ireifej takes a firm stance: partial splenectomy for splenic masses is unethical and inappropriate. The high cancer probability makes complete removal mandatory. 

 Essential surgical steps: 

  1. Complete splenectomy hugging the splenic capsule 
  2. Liver biopsy for staging (always performed) 
  3. Consider concurrent procedures only if patient stability allows 

Innovation in Hemostasis: VETIGEL® Hemostatic Gel

Dr. Ireifej enthusiastically demonstrates Zomedica’s VETIGEL® hemostatic gel for managing surgical bleeding during liver biopsies: 

  • Rapid hemostasis (maximum 2 minutes) 
  • No manual pressure required 
  • Absorbable and safe if ingested 

 “This thing is awesome. It addresses the nervousness many surgeons feel about liver biopsies.” —Dr. Ireifej 

Revolutionary Post-Op Monitoring: Dr. Ireifej Champions the VETGuardian® Monitor

Traditional monitoring relies on frequent patient handling, but Dr. Ireifej highlights how Zomedica’s VETGuardian® system transforms patient care through touchless monitoring. 

Key capabilities: 

  • Thermal imaging for body temperature 
  • Pulse and respiratory rate detection 
  • Patient movement tracking 
  • Centralized monitoring for multiple patients 

“I do believe that telemedicine diagnostics are the future. Devices like this are where it’s at.” —Dr. Ireifej 

Ideal for: Post-splenectomy cases, pyometra recovery, brachycephalic patients, and any critical case requiring intensive monitoring without wire attachment. 

Dr. Ireifej’s Post-Operative Protocol 
First 24 Hours: 

  • Continuous or 6-hourly ECG monitoring 
  • Blood pressure checks every 6 hours 
  • PCV/total solids within 1 hour, then twice daily 
  • Sternal recumbency to prevent aspiration pneumonia 

Arrhythmia Management: Treat if patient shows clinical signs OR if >30% of ECG strip shows ventricular arrhythmias using lidocaine bolus followed by CRI, or procainamide IM transitioning to oral. 

Dr. Ireifej's Top Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Delaying surgery for extensive imaging workups 
  2. Attempting partial splenectomy for any splenic mass 
  3. Skipping liver biopsy during exploratory surgery 
  4. Inadequate post-operative monitoring of cardiac rhythms 
  5. Promising definitive diagnosis before histopathology results 

Key Takeaways for Practice Success

Dr. Ireifej’s message is clear: successful splenic mass emergency management requires combining surgical expertise with advanced monitoring technology. Tools like the VETGuardian Remote Monitor represent the evolution toward sophisticated, less invasive patient monitoring that improves outcomes while reducing stress. 

Essential points: 

  • Time is critical—stabilize quickly and proceed to surgery 
  • Complete splenectomy is mandatory for any splenic mass 
  • Histopathology provides the only definitive diagnosis 
  • Advanced monitoring technology significantly improves outcomes 
  • Honest client communication about uncertainty until biopsy results arrive 

For practices regularly handling emergency cases, Dr. Ireifej advocates investing in touchless monitoring technology and advanced hemostatic products to enhance both surgical success rates and client satisfaction. 

Visit Zomedica.com to learn more about how the VETGuardian remote monitoring system and VETIGEL hemostatic gel can enhance your emergency surgery outcomes. 

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03/20/2025
ecallenScience Deep-DiveVETGuardian PLUS

The Science Behind VETGuardian®: Eight Studies Validating Contactless Veterinary Monitoring

The Science Behind VETGuardian®: Eight Studies Validating Contactless Veterinary Monitoring

In the ever-evolving world of veterinary medicine, VETGuardian® stands at the forefront of innovation. This cutting-edge device offers 24/7 contactless monitoring of vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and respiratory rates, all accessible through a user-friendly cloud-based app. But what makes VETGuardian truly revolutionary? Let’s explore how recent scientific studies support the efficacy and importance of contactless monitoring in veterinary care. 

The Power of Non-Invasive Monitoring

VETGuardian’s contactless technology isn’t just convenient—it’s transforming veterinary practices by: 

  • Reducing stress in animals 
  • Enhancing staff efficiency 
  • Improving practice productivity 

Particularly valuable in critical care, post-operative monitoring, and overnight observation, VETGuardian eliminates the need for physical handling, leading to more accurate baseline readings and continuous, non-invasive monitoring. 

Scientific Validation: Studies Supporting Contactless Monitoring

1. Early Detection of Critical Conditions

A study by Schaefer et al. (2020) investigated the rectal-interdigital temperature gradient as a diagnostic marker of shock in dogs. They found that a larger temperature gradient correlated with the presence of shock, demonstrating that non-invasive temperature readings can serve as valuable diagnostic tools, particularly in emergency settings. VETGuardian leverages this insight by providing continuous, contactless temperature monitoring, enabling early detection of critical conditions like shock. This capability can potentially save lives through prompt intervention, making VETGuardian an invaluable tool in emergency veterinary care. 

2. Accuracy of Non-Contact Temperature Measurements

Kreissl and Neiger (2015) compared non-contact infrared corneal thermometers to standard rectal thermometers in 300 dogs. Their research revealed a strong correlation between the two methods, validating the effectiveness of non-contact thermometers. This study directly supports VETGuardian’s approach, confirming that its contactless temperature monitoring can be as accurate as traditional methods while significantly reducing stress on patients. By offering this non-invasive alternative, VETGuardian ensures both accuracy and comfort in temperature monitoring. 

3. Stress Reduction in Hospitalized Animals

Gomart et al. (2014) evaluated various temperature measurement techniques and their associated stress responses in hospitalized dogs. They found that traditional methods, like rectal temperature measurement, induced significant stress, while non-contact methods were more stress-free without compromising accuracy. VETGuardian’s contactless monitoring aligns perfectly with these findings, offering a stress-free solution for continuous vital sign monitoring in hospitalized or critically ill animals. This approach not only improves patient comfort but also ensures more accurate readings by eliminating stress-induced fluctuations in vital signs. 

4. Tracking Disease Progression

Soares et al. (2018) explored the core-peripheral temperature gradient in dogs with naturally occurring myxomatous mitral valve disease. As the disease progressed, the gradient widened, providing an additional diagnostic tool. VETGuardian’s continuous temperature monitoring capabilities make it an ideal instrument for tracking disease progression in chronic conditions like this. By offering veterinarians the ability to monitor subtle temperature changes over time, VETGuardian provides valuable insights for tailoring treatment plans and assessing the effectiveness of ongoing therapies. 

veterinarian watching patient with VETGuardian monitor

5. Real-Time Heart Rate Monitoring

Menchetti et al. (2022) studied heart rate changes in avalanche dogs during endurance exercises in snowy environments, highlighting the importance of real-time monitoring under physically demanding conditions. VETGuardian’s ability to provide continuous, non-invasive heart rate monitoring makes it invaluable not just in clinical settings, but also for monitoring working dogs in various environments. This versatility allows veterinarians and handlers to track the physiological responses of animals in real-world conditions, potentially improving training regimens and ensuring the health and safety of working animals. 

6. Detecting Cardiac Irregularities

Oliviera et al. (2018) presented a case report on inappropriate sinus tachycardia in a dog, illustrating the need for continuous monitoring to detect abnormal heart rhythms. With its constant heart rate monitoring, VETGuardian addresses this need directly, helping veterinarians detect and diagnose cardiac irregularities that might be missed with intermittent checks. This capability is particularly crucial for conditions that manifest intermittently or subtly, allowing for earlier intervention and potentially better outcomes. 

7. Accuracy of Non-Contact Vital Sign Monitoring

Wang et al. (2020) investigated the use of ultra-wide band (UWB) radar for non-contact vital signs monitoring in dogs and cats, finding no statistical difference between UWB radar measurements and traditional methods for tracking heart and respiratory rates. This research further validates the accuracy of non-contact technologies like VETGuardian, confirming their ability to monitor vitals without physical interaction. By leveraging similar advanced technologies, VETGuardian ensures that veterinarians can trust the data they receive, making informed decisions based on accurate, real-time information. 

8. Early Warning for Heart Disease

Ohad et al. (2013) examined sleeping and resting respiratory rates in dogs with subclinical heart disease, concluding that continuous monitoring of respiratory rates could provide critical early warnings of worsening heart disease. VETGuardian’s continuous respiratory rate monitoring serves as an early warning system for heart disease progression, allowing for timely interventions. This feature is particularly valuable for managing patients with known cardiac conditions or those at risk, enabling veterinarians to detect subtle changes that might indicate a need for treatment adjustments or further evaluation. 

The Future of Veterinary Monitoring

As these studies demonstrate, contactless monitoring technologies like VETGuardian are not just convenient—they’re reshaping the landscape of veterinary care. By providing accurate, stress-free, and continuous monitoring, VETGuardian empowers veterinarians to deliver better care, detect issues earlier, and improve outcomes for their patients. From emergency situations to long-term disease management, VETGuardian offers a comprehensive solution that aligns with the latest research in veterinary medicine. 

Embrace the future of veterinary monitoring with VETGuardian—where innovation meets compassionate care. By integrating this advanced technology into your practice, you’re not just staying current with the latest advancements; you’re providing the best possible care for your patients while streamlining your workflow and enhancing your diagnostic capabilities. 

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08/18/2024
ecallenPost-OpVETGuardian PLUS

The VETGuardian® Revolution: How Remote Patient Monitoring is Transforming Veterinary Care

Imagine being able to monitor your critical patients’ vital signs from home, or having the ability to intervene quickly when a post-surgical complication arises – all without disturbing the animal. This is the reality that remote patient monitoring systems like the VETGuardian® zero-touch remote monitor are bringing to veterinary practices. Spurred on by the rise of telehealth during the Covid pandemic, innovations are transforming veterinary care, with technologies like remote patient monitoring systems leading the charge.

The Challenge of Continuous Monitoring in Veterinary Care

Traditionally, monitoring hospitalized patients has required frequent hands-on checks, disturbing animals and potentially increasing their stress levels. This challenge has long been a concern for veterinarians seeking to provide optimal care while minimizing patient discomfort.

VETGuardian: A Zero-Touch Solution

The VETGuardian touchless platform provides a revolutionary approach to patient care, ensuring pets are continuously monitored from admission to discharge. Using unique doppler radar technology, VETGuardian detects vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and respiration without wires or wearables.

Dr. Courtney Campbell DVM, DACVS-SA explains, “It works similar to a radar gun while driving. It also has an alarm that alerts veterinary technicians if those vitals are outside of a preset or customizable range.”

To use VETGuardian, simply mount the device to the patient’s kennel or an IV pole within five feet of the patient, press start, and begin monitoring.

Real-Time Data for Informed Decision Making

One of VETGuardian’s key advantages is its ability to provide vital sign data and live video feed on any internet-connected smart device. This allows veterinarians to access patient information anytime, anywhere, enabling timely interventions and proactive care.

Dr. Dan Danner DVM of Danner Veterinary Hospital shares, “VETGuardian has completely revolutionized the way we care for and protect the safety of our family pets. I have complete peace of mind to go home knowing that our patients are monitored 24/7 and are totally safe.”

Improving Practice Efficiency and Revenue

Beyond enhancing patient care, VETGuardian offers significant benefits for clinic efficiency and revenue generation:

  • Estimated time saved: Up to 2 hours per day per hospitalized patient
  • Increased overnight monitoring capabilities without additional staffing
  • Potential for higher fees for intensive care services

Technicians can multitask more effectively, knowing VETGuardian is monitoring post-surgical or ICU patients. The system’s infrared camera allows for monitoring even in low-light conditions.

"VETGuardian has completely revolutionized the way we care for and protect the safety of our family pets. I have complete peace of mind to go home knowing that our patients are monitoring 24/7 and are totally safe."

Dr. Danner, DVM

Enhancing Patient Comfort and Recovery

VETGuardian addresses both technological advancement and animal emotional well-being. Dr. Adam Christman DVM, MBA explains, “When pets are stressed, their pain sensations are heightened due to the release of stress hormones. Chronic stress can reduce endorphins, healing, and immune system responses.”

By providing continuous, non-invasive monitoring, VETGuardian creates a more relaxed environment supporting faster recovery and better health outcomes.

Case Study: Remote Monitoring in Action

Dr. Liz Millman DVM of PAC Veterinary Mobile Services shares her experience: “Covering a vast geographic area, the ability to monitor patients while on-the-go or treating clients in remote locations has been invaluable. In one instance, we were able to detect early signs of post-operative complications in a dog recovering from GDV surgery, allowing for prompt intervention despite being miles away from the clinic. VETGuardian has not only streamlined our operations but also has provided a crucial lifeline for ensuring optimal care in diverse and dynamic settings.”

VETGuardian Versus Traditional Monitoring Methods

Implementation and Training with VETGuardian

Implementing VETGuardian in your practice is straightforward. The system comes with a user-friendly interface and requires minimal training. Most practices report their staff becoming proficient with the system within a day.

Innovations on the Horizon

We’re continuously improving VETGuardian. Upcoming features include AI-powered predictive analytics to help identify potential health issues before they become critical, and integration with popular practice management software for seamless workflow.

The Future of Veterinary Monitoring

As the veterinary industry continues to embrace technological advancements, remote monitoring systems like VETGuardian are set to play an essential role in veterinary care. By providing continuous vital sign monitoring, seamless integration, and enhanced clinic efficiency, VETGuardian is revolutionizing patient care and practice management.

Ready to revolutionize patient monitoring in your practice? Schedule a VETGuardian demo today and see how it can transform your patient care and practice efficiency.

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