Thirsty Workups—Simplifying Your Approach to the PU/PD Patient

Thirsty Workups—Simplifying Your Approach to the PU/PD Patient

Excessive drinking and urination—polydipsia or PD and polyuria or PU-- are common clinical signs that can quickly derail a case. In this episode of Shake Up Your Workup, Dr. Sylvia Conway and Dr. Nancy Sanders, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), DACVECC, break down a practical, stepwise approach to the PU/PD patient. They cover how to confirm true PU/PD, ask targeted history questions, interpret urine specific gravity and initial diagnostics, and decide when to dig deeper—all while avoiding unnecessary tests. This episode offers clear, actionable guidance to help you confidently approach your thirsty canine and feline patients. About our guest: Nancy A. Sanders, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), DACVECC, is a graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and completed both an Internal Medicine and Emergency/Critical Care residency at the University of Pennsylvania. She then served as an ICU attending at VHUP before transitioning to private specialty practice in New Jersey and Maryland, where she held leadership roles in ER, ICU, and Internal Medicine services, directed residency programs, and led clinical drug trials. After 21 years in clinical practice, Dr. Sanders joined IDEXX, where she now serves as a Medical Education Specialist within the Global Medical Organization + + + + + To learn more about today’s topic, check out these additional resources: • Diagnostic Hacks to Change the Way You Approach…the PU PD Patient [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8135/diagnostic-hacks-to-change-the-way-you-approachthe-pu-pd-patient] • "Hold it!" Don't Forget the Urinalysis [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/7055/hold-it-dont-forget-the-urinalysis?hash=873fb4a8afeb8491fc1c23f8164cccb65f6d4ed7&generated_by=769244] Replay season one episodes [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/catalog/view/1023]on the IDEXX Learning Center. About our host: Sylvia Conway BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS Dr. Conway is the host of the Shake Up Your Workup podcast. She joined IDEXX in May 2014 after spending five years as a mixed and small animal veterinarian in the United Kingdom. She currently oversees medical education tracks at tradeshow events and enjoys all aspects of her role. Dr. Conway is passionate about delivering clinically relevant medical education that promotes best practices and adds value to the day-to-day lives of veterinary practitioners. Originally from London, Dr. Conway relocated to Amsterdam, Netherlands, in February 2013. She still lives in Amsterdam with her husband, two young sons, Frankie the cat, and their canine companion, Wappie. Thank you for listening to Shake Up Your Workup. You can contact us at shakeupyourworkup@idexx.com with comments and feedback. Disclaimer: This podcast features hosts and guests who may be employed by IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates ("IDEXX"). The content of this podcast is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken to represent official IDEXX policies, guidance, or positions. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers only. This podcast may reference IDEXX products or services as part of the professional discussion. Any such references are for informational purposes only and do not constitute technical instructions or convey any express or implicit performance guarantee or warranty, nor do they constitute to any regulated product claims. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical or veterinary advice. Diagnostic discussions or recommendations may not be appropriate for all clinical circumstances, and regulatory requirements for diagnostics, treatment, and product use may vary between regions. Listeners should always rely on their own veterinary judgment and consult applicable local laws, regulations, and professional guidelines before making decisions about diagnostics, treatment, or patient care. IDEXX makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information discussed, and IDEXX is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided in this podcast.

On Point—A Smarter Approach to Using and Interpreting FNAs

In this episode of Shake Up Your Workup, host Dr. Sylvia Conway sits down with Dr. Megan Skeffington to discuss a practical, point‑of‑care approach to fine needle aspirates. The conversation explores how slide‑free, AI‑enabled cytology can help assess sample viability within minutes, support workflow efficiency, and provide actionable information early in the diagnostic process. without replacing veterinary judgement. Tune in for practical insights, realistic expectations, and key takeaways to help make the FNA a clearer starting point in the diagnostic journey. About our guest: Dr. Megan Skeffington, DVM, CCFP Dr. Skeffington has worked in both private and corporate practice as an associate veterinarian and Chief of Staff and continues to serve as a per-diem emergency room surgeon. Since 2020, she has served on VITICUS Group (formerly WVC) Board of Directors and is currently the President-Elect. Dr. Skeffington joined IDEXX in 2020 as a professional services veterinarian and the PSV leadership team in 2024. Originally from Iowa, Dr. Skeffington obtained her DVM from Iowa State University in 2006 and now lives in Upstate New York with her husband and their two Brittany spaniels. Keep up with Dr. Skeffington on LinkedIn. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-skeffington-dvm-ccfp-06b4b44a/] To learn more about today’s topic, check out these additional resources: • Cytology In My Practice: It’s That Easy! [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/7191/module-2-cytology-in-my-practice-its-that-easy?hash=9cb6f0b5a7079e76ff629d43f215bccb0b8c092c&generated_by=769244] • Stick to the Point: Diagnosing Skin and Subcutaneous Masses [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8928/stick-to-the-point-diagnosing-skin-and-subcutaneous-masses?hash=49c61d416b5e2c853a5807ff004fd13be08c5b3b&generated_by=769244] Replay season one episodes on the IDEXX Learning Center [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/catalog/view/1023]. Thank you for listening to Shake Up Your Workup. You can contact us at shakeupyourworkup@idexx.com with comments and feedback. Disclaimer: This podcast features hosts and guests who may be employed by IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates ("IDEXX"). The content of this podcast is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken to represent official IDEXX policies, guidance, or positions. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers only. This podcast may reference IDEXX products or services as part of the professional discussion. Any such references are for informational purposes only and do not constitute technical instructions or convey any express or implicit performance guarantee or warranty, nor do they constitute to any regulated product claims. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical or veterinary advice. Diagnostic discussions or recommendations may not be appropriate for all clinical circumstances, and regulatory requirements for diagnostics, treatment, and product use may vary between regions. Listeners should always rely on their own veterinary judgment and consult applicable local laws, regulations, and professional guidelines before making decisions about diagnostics, treatment, or patient care. IDEXX makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information discussed, and IDEXX is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided in this podcast.

Working Up Chronic GI Patients—More Than Gut Instinct

When chronic gastrointestinal (GI) cases walk through the door, where do you start? Internal medicine specialist Dr. Yvonne McGrotty joins host Dr. Sylvia Conway to break down a practical, step-by-step approach to chronic vomiting and diarrhea in cats and dogs. From essential history-taking and dietary trials to microbiome insights, fecal transplants, and when biopsies really matter, this episode gives you the tools to confidently work up even the trickiest GI cases. About our guest: Yvonne McGrotty BVMS CertSAM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS Dr. McGrotty graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1997 and completed a residency in small animal medicine at Glasgow Veterinary School. She achieved the European Diploma in Small Animal Medicine in 2006 and is recognized as both an RCVS Specialist in Internal Medicine (Small Animal) and EBVS® European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine. With more than 25 years of experience in referral practice across the UK and France, Dr. McGrotty has an extensive publication record in veterinary journals. She currently serves as an internal medicine consultant for IDEXX Laboratories Ltd,United Kingdom and works in a referral hospital in Angers, France. Her clinical interests include gastroenterology, hematology, coagulation, and critical care. In her clinical work, Dr. McGrotty also performs endoscopy on large cats and exotic species. To learn more about today’s topic, check out these additional resources: * Suffering in Silence: Approach to Feline Chronic Triaditis [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8045/suffering-in-silence-approach-to-feline-chronic-triaditis?hash=ab494da6ba5885f3a4cfa376968d37ac10e2a718&generated_by=769244] * Fecal Microbiota Transplantation: When and Why—A Case-Based Clinical Approach [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8871/fecal-microbiota-transplantation-when-and-why-a-case-based-clinical-approach?hash=3e37bc791fd2adadfb72d568d798dd386afd47e5&generated_by=769244] * Dysbiosis and Chronic Enteropathies as Interrelated Clinical Syndrome – New Insights into Pathophysiology and Therapy [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/7415/dysbiosis-and-chronic-enteropathies-as-interrelated-clinical-syndrome-new-insights-into-pathophysiology-and-therapy?hash=a03543ee6c50296dc8529f1aa644d9e4d86f7230&generated_by=769244] * Podcast replay! Episode 7: Fecal Diagnostics-Which Tests Help Which Tests Stink? [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8329/shake-up-your-workup-podcast-episode-7-fecal-diagnostics-which-tests-help-which-tests-stink?hash=2059dbe8bb235f6ddd83890846d6fa66f8f4faf1&generated_by=769244] + + + + + About our host: Sylvia Conway BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS Dr. Conway [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvia-conway-5462161a2/] is the host of the Shake Up Your Workup podcast. She joined IDEXX in May 2014 after spending five years as a mixed and small animal veterinarian in the United Kingdom. She currently oversees medical education tracks at tradeshow events and enjoys all aspects of her role. Dr. Conway is passionate about delivering clinically relevant medical education that promotes best practices and adds value to the day-to-day lives of veterinary practitioners. Originally from London, Dr. Conway relocated to Amsterdam,Netherlands, in February 2013. She still lives in Amsterdam with her husband, two young sons, Frankie the cat, and their canine companion, Wappie. Thank you for listening to Shake Up Your Workup. You can contact us at shakeupyourworkup@idexx.com with comments and feedback. Disclaimer: This podcast features hosts and guests who may be employed by IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates ("IDEXX"). The content of this podcast is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken to represent official IDEXX policies, guidance, or positions. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers only. This podcast may reference IDEXX products or services as part of the professional discussion. Any such references are for informational purposes only and do not constitute technical instructions or convey any express or implicit performance guarantee or warranty, nor do they constitute to any regulated product claims. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical or veterinary advice. Diagnostic discussions or recommendations may not be appropriate for all clinical circumstances, and regulatory requirements for diagnostics, treatment, and product use may vary between regions. Listeners should always rely on their own veterinary judgment and consult applicable local laws, regulations, and professional guidelines before making decisions about diagnostics, treatment, or patient care. IDEXX makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information discussed, and IDEXX is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided in this podcast.

Arrrrggghhh Atopic Skin Disease!

Itchy dogs are everywhere—and managing chronic skin disease can be one of the most challenging parts of veterinary practice. In this episode of Shake Up Your Workup, Dr. Sylvia Conway chats with Dr. Heather Akridge (IDEXX Dermatology) for a practical deep dive into managing itchy pets and atopic skin disease. They break down how to gather a meaningful dermatologic history, rule out common causes of pruritus, approach recurrent ear and skin infections, and make smart diagnostic choices—especially when budget is tight. Packed with tips you can use in practice today, this episode brings clarity to one of GP medicine’s most common challenges. About our guest: Dr. Heather Akridge joined IDEXX Medical Consulting Services as a Dermatology Veterinary Specialist consultant in 2020. A native of Florida and Arkansas, she earned her undergraduate degree from Oklahoma State University (OSU) in 2003 and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from OSU in 2007. After graduation, she completed a one-year small animal medicine and surgery internship at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, Canada. She then practiced small animal medicine in Texas for two years before completing a three-year dermatology and allergy residency at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Akridge became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology in 2014. Prior to joining IDEXX, she spent over six years practicing small animal dermatology at a multi-specialty referral hospital in Austin, Texas. + + + + + To learn more about today’s topic, check out these additional resources: • 2023 AAHA Management of Allergic Skin Diseases in Dogs and Cats Guidelines [https://www.aaha.org/wp-content/uploads/globalassets/02-guidelines/2023-aaha-management-of-allergic-skin-diseases-in-dogs-and-cats-guidelines/resources/2023-aaha-management-of-allergic-skin-diseases-guidelines.pdf] • Skin Biopsy Dos and Don'ts: Insights through Dermatopathology and Dermatology Consult [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/4396/skin-biopsy-dos-and-donts-insights-through-dermatopathology-and-dermatology-consult?hash=fd076d7a9ec6d04f9097b8bb874372547b149152&generated_by=769244] • Taking the Pain Out of Ear Cytology—Using In-House Diagnostics to Target Treatment of Otitis Externa [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8042/taking-the-pain-out-of-ear-cytology-using-in-house-diagnostics-to-target-treatment-of-otitis-externa?hash=4e7ecf12b39e16a82b09f472db171c4e94c9c5ff&generated_by=769244] • Replay! Episode 10 Mucky Ears, Swabs and Smears—Choosing and Using Diagnostics for Otitis Externa [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8560/shake-up-your-workup-podcast-episode-10-mucky-ears-swabs-and-smears-choosing-and-using-diagnostics-for-otitis-externa?hash=b5804048656c574ccefab56daf3fb70d55d9cf26&generated_by=769244] + + + + + Thank you for listening to Shake Up Your Workup. You can contact us at shakeupyourworkup@idexx.com with comments and feedback. Disclaimer: This podcast features hosts and guests who may be employed or engaged with IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates ("IDEXX"). The content of this podcast is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken to represent official IDEXX policies, guidance, or positions. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers only. This podcast may reference IDEXX products or services as part of the professional discussion. Any such references are for informational purposes only and do not constitute technical instructions or convey any express or implicit performance guarantee or warranty, nor do they constitute any regulated product claims. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical or veterinary advice. Diagnostic discussions or recommendations may not be appropriate for all clinical circumstances, and regulatory requirements for diagnostics, treatment, and product use may vary between regions. Listeners should always rely on their own veterinary judgment and consult applicable local laws, regulations, and professional guidelines before making decisions about diagnostics, treatment, or patient care. IDEXX makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information discussed, and IDEXX is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided in this podcast.

Fragments and Forms—Abnormal Erythrocytes in Veterinary Hematology

Red blood cell morphology can reveal critical clues about your patient’s health—but only if you know what you’re looking for. In this episode of Shake Up Your Workup, our host, Dr. Sylvia Conway sits down with Dr. Guillermo Couto to takes us beyond the numbers to explore the diagnostic power of blood smears. We’ll break down: • Why abnormal erythrocytes matter and what they indicate • How to avoid common pitfalls when assessing morphology • The “big three” poikilocytes—acanthocytes, keratocytes, and schistocytes—and what they tell you about disease processes Plus, we’ll discuss practical tips for identifying these cells, the role of new technologies like IDEXX InVue Dx Cellular Analyzer, and when to involve a pathologist. About our guest: Guillermo Couto, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM and Oncology), graduated from Buenos Aires University, Argentina, in 1976. He spent five years as a private-practice small animal veterinarian in his hometown and then completed a residency in clinical oncology at the University of California, Davis. He is coauthor of the textbook Small Animal Internal Medicine with Richard W. Nelson, now in its sixth edition, and has published over 350 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters in the areas of oncology, hematology, and greyhound medicine. Dr. Couto served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine and President of the Veterinary Cancer Society. He received numerous teaching and service awards while at Ohio State University. After more than 30 years in academia, he now provides consultation and educational services for IDEXX and others through Couto Veterinary Consultants in Hilliard, Ohio. Keep up with Dr. Couto at linkedin.com/in/couto-guillermo [https://www.linkedin.com/in/couto-guillermo-4735b85a/] + + + + + To learn more about blood cell morphology check out these free courses on the IDEXX Learning Center. • From Cytology to AI: Revolutionizing Cellular Diagnostics [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/8750/from-cytology-to-ai-revolutionizing-cellular-diagnostics?hash=2cf4acd520664318deb997ca10d128786ee78e73&generated_by=769244] • Hematology Beyond the Numbers [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/6991/hematology-beyond-the-numbers?hash=0bd6e90d2aa28f6b6e15f48f791d291723a6d3b9&generated_by=769244] • A Case Based Approach to Small Animal Medicine with Dr. Guillermo Couto [https://learn.idexx.com/learn/courses/5492/a-case-based-approach-to-small-animal-medicine-with-dr-guillermo-couto?hash=a0c9b88d9d24e688daa368fb6d0eba122eb1ac56&generated_by=769244] + + + + + About our host: Sylvia Conway BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS Dr. Conway is the host of the Shake Up Your Workup podcast. She joined IDEXX in May 2014 after spending five years as a mixed and small animal veterinarian in the United Kingdom. She currently oversees medical education tracks at tradeshow events and enjoys all aspects of her role. Dr. Conway is passionate about delivering clinically relevant medical education that promotes best practices and adds value to the day-to-day lives of veterinary practitioners. Originally from London, Dr. Conway relocated to Amsterdam, Netherlands, in February 2013. She still lives in Amsterdam with her husband, two young sons, Frankie the cat, and their canine companion, Wappie. + + + + + Thank you for listening to Shake Up Your Workup. You can contact us at shakeupyourworkup@idexx.com with comments and feedback. Disclaimer: This podcast features hosts and guests who may be employed by IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates ("IDEXX"). The content of this podcast is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken to represent official IDEXX policies, guidance, or positions. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers only. This podcast may reference IDEXX products or services as part of the professional discussion. Any such references are for informational purposes only and do not constitute technical instructions or convey any express or implicit performance guarantee or warranty, nor do they constitute to any regulated product claims. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical or veterinary advice. Diagnostic discussions or recommendations may not be appropriate for all clinical circumstances, and regulatory requirements for diagnostics, treatment, and product use may vary between regions. Listeners should always rely on their own veterinary judgment and consult applicable local laws, regulations, and professional guidelines before making decisions about diagnostics, treatment, or patient care. IDEXX makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information discussed, and IDEXX is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided in this podcast.