Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials in Raccoon Dogs (Nyctereutes procynoides)

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procynoides) are canids indigenous to Eastern Asia considered being one of the most invasive non-native animals in Europe. Due to the lack of natural enemies, the spread of the species into the Europe areal raises the possibility of the spread of some hazardous zoonoses for which is a vector including viruses able to cause fatal encephalitis (e.g., rabies). In this light, from a clinical perspective, objective, quick, cost-effective techniques for investigating the integrity and functionality of the nervous system are needed. Our study investigates for the first time the auditory system function of the raccoon dogs by using brainstem auditory evoked technique. Raccoon dogs share similarities with other species regarding brainstem auditory evoked potentials (responses) (BAER) morphology. The obtained traces where homogenous according to the latencies and amplitudes of the waves and may be used for further studies regarding the nervous system physiology in this species but also to help clinicians to asses any functional impairment of auditory system in this species. ABSTRACT: Raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procynoides) are canids indigenous to Eastern Asia being one of the most invasive non-native animals in Europe and potential vectors for several hazardous parasitic and viral diseases. To present, there is a lack of studies regarding objective techniques used to appreciate the integrity and functionality of the nervous system in this species. Brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAER) is a cost-effective, quick and noninvasive technique to assess the functionality of nervous system. The aim of the study is to provide reference values and evaluates the reliability of BAER recording with needle electrodes in clinically healthy raccoon dogs. Nine individuals were investigated for BAER under xylazine and ketamine general anesthesia. Four waves (I, II, III and V) were identified and evaluated for latencies, morphologically similarity to those previously reported for other species (dogs, horses, cats, and ferret). Our data can be used in further studies to asses objectively the auditory system function in raccoon dogs.