The prairie dog in consultation

The black-tailed prairie dog Cynomys ludovicianus is a new companion animal rodent which is increasingly often presented for consultation. It belongs along with four other species of prairie dogs to the family of the Sciuridae. Its dentition is similar to that of Caviomorphs with cheek teeth that are partially hypsodont. This animal is highly social and lives in the wild in organised colonies and spends most of its time underground in burrows. Poor maintenance conditions rapidly produce stress and behavioural disorders. Overfeeding and a lack of activity quickly lead to obesity. The restraint required when handling and the clinical examination are comparable to what is necessary when dealing with guinea pigs. Do not use antibiotics responsible for the selective destruction of Gram + flora. The main anaesthetics that can be used are potentialised ketamine, the tiletamine-zolazepam combination and isoflurane.