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Dan's research covers a diverse range of epidemiological studies based on primary-care veterinary clinical data collected via the . His projects include studies based both at the RVC and a growing number of external collaborations both in the UK and internationally. His research focus is primarily on improved understanding of the role of breed and conformation in relation to disorder prevalence and severity. In addition, Dan is involved in projects that also explore animal behaviour, drug usage, demography, longevity and welfare as well as human translational questions. As well as focusing on epidemiological questions relating to dogs and cats, Dan's work is increasingly extending to the full spectrum of species that are presented for primary veterinary care. 

2024 (16)

1. Beard, S., Hall, E.J., Bradbury, J., Carter, A.J., Gilbert, S. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Epidemiology of heat-related illness in dogs under UK emergency veterinary care in 2022', Veterinary Record, 194(11), e4153, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.4153.

 

1. Brand, C.L., O'Neill, D.G., Belshaw, Z., Dale, F.C., Merritt, B.L., Clover, K.N., Tay, M.-X.M., Pegram, C.L. and Packer, R.M.A. (2024) 'Impacts of Puppy Early Life Experiences, Puppy-Purchasing Practices, and Owner Characteristics on Owner-Reported Problem Behaviours in a UK Pandemic Puppies Cohort at 21 Months of Age', Animals, 14(2), 336.

 

1. Bryson, G.T., O'Neill, D.G., Brand, C.L., Belshaw, Z. and Packer, R.M.A. (2024) 'The doodle dilemma: How the physical health of ‘Designer-crossbreed’ Cockapoo, Labradoodle and Cavapoo dogs’ compares to their purebred progenitor breeds', PLoS One, 19(8), e0306350, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0306350.

 

1. Carter, A.J., Hall, E.J., Bradbury, J., Beard, S., Gilbert, S., Barfield, D. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Post-exercise management of exertional hyperthermia in dogs participating in dog sport (canicross) events in the UK', Journal of Thermal Biology, 121, 103827, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103827.

 

1. Dale, F., Brodbelt, D.C., West, G., Church, D.B., Lee, Y.H. and O’Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzu dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 11(1), 2, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-023-00135-y.

 

1. Engdahl, K.S., Brodbelt, D.C., Cameron, C., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) 'English Cocker Spaniels under primary veterinary care in the UK: disorder predispositions and protections', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 11(1), 1, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-023-00136-x.

 

1. Jackson, M.A., Burn, C.C., Hedley, J., Brodbelt, D.C. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Dental disease in companion rabbits under UK primary veterinary care: Frequency and risk factors', Veterinary Record, 194(6), e3993, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.3993.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Komutrattananon, R., Church, D.B., Hartley, A.N. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2024) 'The epidemiology of tick infestation in dog breeds in the UK', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 65(7), 569-581, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13727.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Taffinder, J.L., Brodbelt, D.C. and Baldrey, V. (2024) 'Demography, commonly diagnosed disorders and mortality of guinea pigs under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2019 - A VetCompass study', PLoS One, 19(3), e0299464, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0299464.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Williams, A., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and Hedley, J. (2024) 'Conformation-associated health in pet rabbits in the UK: A VetCompass cohort study', Veterinary Record, 195(5), e4396, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.4396.

 

1. Pegram, C., Diaz-Ordaz, K., Brodbelt, D.C., Chang, Y.-M., Hall, J.L., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Later-age neutering causes lower risk of early-onset urinary incontinence than early neutering–a VetCompass target trial emulation study', PLoS One, 19(7), e0305526, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305526.

 

1. Pegram, C., Diaz-Ordaz, K., Brodbelt, D.C., Chang, Y.-M., von Hekkel, A.F., Wu, C.-H., Church, D.B. and O’Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Target Trial Emulation: Does surgical versus non-surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs cause different outcomes?', Preventive Veterinary Medicine, 106165, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106165.

 

1. Pound, L., Farrow, M., O'Neill, D., Deane, D.J. and Packer, R.M.A. (2024) '‘All I do is fight fires’: Qualitative exploration of UK veterinarians’ attitudes towards and experiences of pre-purchase consultations regarding brachycephalic dogs', Veterinary Record, 194(7), e3897, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.3897.

 

1. Skipper, A.M., Packer, R.M.A. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) '“Maybe we should think outside the box?” prioritisation of issues with UK not-for-profit canine health and welfare research funding using Delphi expert consensus and gap analysis', PLoS One, 19(12), e0313735, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0313735.

 

1. Skipper, A.M., Packer, R.M.A. and O'Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Researcher, research thyself? Mapping the landscape of canine health and welfare research funding provided by UK not-for-profit organisations from 2012–2022', PLoS One, 19(5), e0303498, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0303498.

 

1. Teng, K.T.-y., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and O’Neill, D.G. (2024) 'Life tables of annual life expectancy and risk factors for mortality in cats in the UK', Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 26(5), 1098612X241234556, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1098612x241234556.

 

 

 

 

2023 (22)

1. Allen, S.E., O'Neill, D.G., Cardwell, J.M., Verheyen, K.L.P. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2023) 'A study of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on equine veterinary care in the UK', Veterinary Record Open, 10(2), e74, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vro2.74.

 

1. Andrews, A.L.M.M., Youngman, K.L., Packer, R.M.A., O'Neill, D.G. and Kafarnik, C. (2023) 'A Review of Clinical Outcomes, Owner Understanding and Satisfaction following Medial Canthoplasty in Brachycephalic Dogs in a UK Referral Setting (2016-2021)', Animals, 13(12), 2032.

 

1. Broughton, S.E., O'Neill, D.G., Syme, H.M. and Geddes, R.F. (2023) 'Ionized hypercalcemia in 238 cats from a referral hospital population (2009-2019)', Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 37(1), 80-91, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16627.

 

1. Edmunds, G., Beck, S., Kale, K.U., Spasic, I., O'Neill, D., Brodbelt, D. and Smalley, M.J. (2023) 'Associations Between Dog Breed and Clinical Features of Mammary Epithelial Neoplasia in Bitches: an Epidemiological Study of Submissions to a Single Diagnostic Pathology Centre Between 2008–2021', Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia, 28(1), 6, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10911-023-09531-3.

 

1. Elkholly, D., Fraser, A., Booth, R., O'Neill, D., Mateus, A., Brunton, L. and Brodbelt, D. (2023) 'Antimicrobial usage in farm animal practices in the UK: A mixed-methods approach', Preventive Veterinary Medicine, 213, 105870, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105870.

 

1. Engdahl, K.S., Brodbelt, D.C., Cameron, C., Church, D.B., Hedhammar, Å. and O'Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Demography and disorders of English Cocker Spaniels under primary veterinary care in the UK', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 10(1), 4, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-023-00128-x.

 

1. Geddes, R.F., Davison, L.J., Elliott, J., Syme, H.M. and O'Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Risk factors for upper urinary tract uroliths and ureteral obstruction in cats under referral veterinary care in the United Kingdom', Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 37(2), 567-577, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16659.

 

1. Hall, E.J., Carter, A.J., Bradbury, J., Beard, S., Gilbert, S., Barfield, D. and O'Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Cooling Methods Used to Manage Heat-Related Illness in Dogs Presented to Primary Care Veterinary Practices during 2016-2018 in the UK', Veterinary Sciences, 10(7), 465.

 

1. Heeley, A.M., Brodbelt, D.C., O'Neill, D.G., Church, D.B. and Davison, L.J. (2023) 'Assessment of glucocorticoid and antibiotic exposure as risk factors for diabetes mellitus in selected dog breeds attending UK primary-care clinics', Veterinary Record, 192(10), e2785, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.2785.

 

1. Leicester, L., Reid, A., Gilbert, S., Marshall, R. and O'Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Applying clinical audit for quality improvement in canine dystocia cases seen at a UK primary-care emergency practice', Veterinary Record, 192(11), e2485, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.2485.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Blenkarn, A., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and Freeman, A. (2023) 'Periodontal disease in cats under primary veterinary care in the UK: frequency and risk factors', Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 25(3), 1098612X231158154, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1098612x231158154.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Edmunds, G.L., Urquhart-Gilmore, J., Church, D.B., Rutherford, L., Smalley, M.J. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2023) 'Dog breeds and conformations predisposed to osteosarcoma in the UK: a VetCompass study', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 10(1), 8, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-023-00131-2.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Engdahl, K.S., Leach, A., Packer, R.M.A., Church, D.B. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2023) 'Is it now time to iron out the wrinkles? Health of Shar Pei dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 10(1), 11, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-023-00134-z.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Gunn-Moore, D., Sorrell, S., McAuslan, H., Church, D.B., Pegram, C. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2023) 'Commonly diagnosed disorders in domestic cats in the UK and their associations with sex and age', Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 25(2), 1098612X231155016, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1098612x231155016.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., McMillan, K.M., Church, D.B. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2023) 'Dog breeds and conformations in the UK in 2019: VetCompass canine demography and some consequent welfare implications', PLoS One, 18(7), e0288081, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0288081.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Skipper, A.M., Barrett, K., Church, D.B., Packer, R.M.A. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2023) 'Demography, common disorders and mortality of Boxer dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 10(1), 6, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-023-00129-w.

 

1. Packer, R.M.A., Brand, C.L., Belshaw, Z., Pegram, C.L., Dale, F., Stevens, K.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Is UK Puppy Purchasing Suffering a Long COVID Effect? Ongoing Negative Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic upon Puppy Purchase Motivations and Behaviours in 2021', Animals, 13(13), 2186.

 

1. Pegram, C., Brodbelt, D.C., Diaz-Ordaz, K., Chang, Y., von Hekkel, A.F., Church, D.B. and O’Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Risk factors for unilateral cranial cruciate ligament rupture diagnosis and for clinical management in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK', The Veterinary Journal, 292, 105952, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.105952.

 

1. Pegram, C., Diaz-Ordaz, K., Brodbelt, D.C., Chang, Y.-M., Tayler, S., Allerton, F., Prisk, L., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2023) 'Target trial emulation: Do antimicrobials or gastrointestinal nutraceuticals prescribed at first presentation for acute diarrhoea cause a better clinical outcome in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK?', PLoS One, 18(10), e0291057, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0291057.

 

1. Pickard Price, P., Stell, A., O'Neill, D., Church, D. and Brodbelt, D. (2023) 'Epidemiology and risk factors for mammary tumours in female cats', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 64(5), 313-320, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13598.

 

1. Trees, L., Heath, M., Barnes, V., Howe, H., O'Neill, D., Packer, R., Radford, M., Sparks, P., Harney, N. and Rusbridge, C. (2023) 'Strengthening legislation around dog breeding', Veterinary Record, 193(3), 116-117.

 

1. Varney, D., O'Neill, D., O'Neill, M., Church, D., Stell, A., Beck, S., Smalley, M.J. and Brodbelt, D. (2023) 'Epidemiology of mammary tumours in bitches under veterinary care in the UK in 2016', Veterinary Record, 193(5), e3054, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.3054.

 

 

 

 

2022 (16)

 

1. Allen, S.E., Verheyen, K.L.P., O'Neill, D.G. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2022) 'Use of antimicrobials licensed for systemic administration in UK equine practice', Equine Veterinary Journal, 55(5), 808-819, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/evj.13878.

 

1. Beeston, D., Humm, K., Church, D.B., Brodbelt, D. and O'Neill, D.G. (2022) 'Occurrence and clinical management of urethral obstruction in male cats under primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom in 2016', Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 36(2), 599-608, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16389.

 

1. Brand, C.L., O'Neill, D.G., Belshaw, Z., Pegram, C.L., Stevens, K.B. and Packer, R.M.A. (2022) 'Pandemic Puppies: Demographic Characteristics, Health and Early Life Experiences of Puppies Acquired during the 2020 Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK', Animals, 12(5), 629, available: http://dx.doi.org/doi:10.3390/ani12050629.

 

1. Burnett, E., Brand, C.L., O'Neill, D.G., Pegram, C.L., Belshaw, Z., Stevens, K.B. and Packer, R.M.A. (2022) 'How much is that doodle in the window? Exploring motivations and behaviours of UK owners acquiring designer crossbreed dogs (2019-2020)', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 9(1), 8, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-022-00120-x.

 

1. Craven, A.J., Pegram, C., Packer, R.M.A., Jarvis, S., McGreevy, P.D., Warnes, C., Church, D.B., Brodbelt, D.C. and O’Neill, D.G. (2022) 'Veterinary drug therapies used for undesirable behaviours in UK dogs under primary veterinary care', PLoS One, 17(1), e0261139, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0261139.

 

1. Hall, E.J., Carter, A.J., Chico, G., Bradbury, J., Gentle, L.K., Barfield, D. and O'Neill, D.G. (2022) 'Risk Factors for Severe and Fatal Heat-Related Illness in UK Dogs - A VetCompass Study', Veterinary Sciences, 9(5), 1-18, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9050231.

 

1. O’Neill, D.G., Skipper, A., Packer, R.M.A., Lacey, C., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and Pegram, C. (2022) 'English Bulldogs in the UK: a VetCompass study of their disorder predispositions and protections', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 9(1), 5, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-022-00118-5.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Khoo, J.S.P., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B., Pegram, C. and Geddes, R.F. (2022) 'Frequency, breed predispositions and other demographic risk factors for diagnosis of hypothyroidism in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 9(1), 11, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-022-00123-8.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Kim, K., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B., Pegram, C. and Baldrey, V. (2022) 'Demography, disorders and mortality of pet hamsters under primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom in 2016', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 63(10), 747-755, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13527.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Rowe, D., Brodbelt, D.C., Pegram, C. and Hendricks, A. (2022) 'Ironing out the wrinkles and folds in the epidemiology of skin fold dermatitis in dog breeds in the UK', Scientific Reports, 12(1), 10553, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-14483-5.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Sahota, J., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B., Packer, R.M.A. and Pegram, C. (2022) 'Health of Pug dogs in the UK: disorder predispositions and protections', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 9(1), 4, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-022-00117-6.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Yin, Y., Tetas Pont, R., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B., Pegram, C. and Mustikka, M. (2022) 'Breed and conformational predispositions for prolapsed nictitating membrane gland (PNMG) in dogs in the UK: A VetCompass study', PLoS One, 17(1), e0260538, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0260538.

 

1. Shoop-Worrall, S.J.W., O'Neill, D.G., Viscasillas, J. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2022) 'Mortality related to General Anaesthesia and Sedation in Dogs under UK Primary Veterinary Care', Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaa.2022.03.006.

 

1. Taylor, C., O'Neill, D.G., Catchpole, B. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2022) 'Incidence and demographic risk factors for leptospirosis in dogs in the UK', Veterinary Record, 190(6), 19-26, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.512.

 

1. Taylor, C., O'Neill, D.G., Catchpole, B. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2022) 'Leptospirosis vaccination in dogs attending UK primary care practices: vaccine uptake and factors associated with administration', BMC Veterinary Research, 18(1), 285, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12917-022-03382-6.

 

1. Teng, K.T.-y., Brodbelt, D.C., Pegram, C., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2022) 'Life tables of annual life expectancy and mortality for companion dogs in the United Kingdom', Scientific Reports, 12(1), 6415, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-10341-6.

 

 

 

 

2021 (19)

 

1. Economu, L., Stell, A., O'Neill, D.G., Schofield, I., Stevens, K. and Brodbelt, D. (2021) 'Incidence and risk factors for feline lymphoma in UK primary-care practice', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 62(2), 97-106, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13266.

 

1. Edmunds, G.L., Smalley, M.J., Beck, S., Errington, R.J., Gould, S., Winter, H., Brodbelt, D.C. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Dog breeds and body conformations with predisposition to osteosarcoma in the UK: a case-control study', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 8(2), 1-22, available: http://dx.doi.org/ https://doi.org/10.1186/s40575-021-00100-7.

 

1. Hall, E.J., Carter, A.J., Bradbury, J., Barfield, D. and O’Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Proposing the VetCompass clinical grading tool for heat-related illness in dogs', Scientific Reports, 11(1), 6828, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-86235-w.

 

1. Kim, D., Dobromylskyj, M.J., O'Neill, D. and Smith, K.C. (2021) 'Skin masses in dogs under 1 year of age: 2554 cases (2006-2013)', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 63(1), 10-15, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13418.

 

1. O’Neill, D.G., Hendricks, A., Phillips, J.A., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and Loeffler, A. (2021) 'Non-neoplastic anal sac disorders in UK dogs: Epidemiology and management aspects of a research-neglected syndrome', Veterinary Record, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.203.

 

1. O’Neill, D.G., Volk, A.V., Soares, T., Church, D.B., Brodbelt, D.C. and Pegram, C. (2021) 'Frequency and predisposing factors for canine otitis externa in the UK – a primary veterinary care epidemiological view', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 8(1), 7, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-021-00106-1.

 

1. O'Neill, D., Mitchell, C.E., Humphrey, J., Church, D., Brodbelt, D. and Pegram, C. (2021) 'Epidemiology of periodontal disease in dogs in the UK primary-care veterinary setting', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 62(12), 1051-1061, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13405.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Brodbelt, D.C., Keddy, A., Church, D.B. and Sanchez, R.F. (2021) 'Keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK: an epidemiological study', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 62(8), 636–645, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13382.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., James, H., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and Pegram, C. (2021) 'Prevalence of commonly diagnosed disorders in UK dogs under primary veterinary care: results and applications', BMC Veterinary Research, 17(1), 69, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12917-021-02775-3.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Lee, Y.H., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B., Pegram, C. and Halfacree, Z. (2021) 'Reporting the epidemiology of aural haematoma in dogs and proposing a novel aetiopathogenetic pathway', Scientific Reports, 11(1), 21670, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-00352-0.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Packer, R.M.A., Francis, P., Church, D.B., Brodbelt, D.C. and Pegram, C. (2021) 'French Bulldogs differ to other dogs in the UK in propensity for many common disorders: a VetCompass study', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 8(1), 13, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-021-00112-3.

 

1. Packer, R.M.A., Brand, C.L., Belshaw, Z., Pegram, C.L., Stevens, K.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Pandemic Puppies: Characterising Motivations and Behaviours of UK Owners Who Purchased Puppies during the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic', Animals, 11(9), 2500.

 

1. Pegram, C., Gray, C., Packer, R.M.A., Richards, Y., Church, D.B., Brodbelt, D.C. and O’Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Proportion and risk factors for death by euthanasia in dogs in the UK', Scientific Reports, 11(1), 9145, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-88342-0.

 

1. Pegram, C., Raffan, E., White, E., Ashworth, A.H., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Frequency, breed predisposition and demographic risk factors for overweight status in dogs in the UK', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 62(7), 521-530, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13325.

 

1. Pegram, C., Woolley, C., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Disorder predispositions and protections of Labrador Retrievers in the UK', Scientific Reports, 11(1), 13988, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-93379-2.

 

1. Schofield, I., Brodbelt, D.C., Kennedy, N., Niessen, S.J.M., Church, D.B., Geddes, R.F. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Machine-learning based prediction of Cushing’s syndrome in dogs attending UK primary-care veterinary practice', Scientific Reports, 11(1), 9035, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-88440-z.

 

1. Schofield, I., Brodbelt, D.C., Niessen, S.J.M., Church, D.B., Geddes, R.F. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Frequency and risk factors for naturally occurring Cushing's syndrome in dogs attending UK primary-care practices', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 63(4), 265-274, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13450.

 

1. Schofield, I., Woolhead, V., Johnson, A., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and O'Neill, D.G. (2021) 'Hypoadrenocorticism in dogs under UK primary veterinary care: frequency, clinical approaches and risk factors', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 62(5), 343-350, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13285.

 

1. Taylor, C., Brodbelt, D.C., Dobson, B., Catchpole, B., O'Neill, D.G. and Stevens, K.B. (2021) 'Spatio-temporal distribution and agroecological factors associated with canine leptospirosis in Great Britain', Preventive Veterinary Medicine, 193, 105407, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105407.

 

 

 

 

2020 (20)

 

1. Anderson, K.L., Zulch, H., O'Neill, D.G., Meeson, R.L. and Collins, L.M. (2020) 'Risk Factors for Canine Osteoarthritis and Its Predisposing Arthropathies: A Systematic Review', Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7(220), available: http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.00220.

 

1. Elkholly, D.A., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B., Pelligand, L., Mwacalimba, K., Wright, A.K. and O'Neill, D.G. (2020) 'Side Effects to Systemic Glucocorticoid Therapy in Dogs Under Primary Veterinary Care in the UK', Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7(515), available: http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.00515.

 

1. Erlen, A., Potschka, H., Volk, H.A., Sauter-Louis, C. and O'Neill, D.G. (2020) 'Seizures in dogs under primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom: Etiology, diagnostic testing, and clinical management', Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 34(6), 2525-2535, available: http://dx.doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15911.

 

1. Hall, E.J., Carter, A.J. and O'Neill, D.G. (2020) 'Dogs Don’t Die Just in Hot Cars—Exertional Heat-Related Illness (Heatstroke) Is a Greater Threat to UK Dogs', Animals, 10(8), 1324.

 

1. Hall, E.J., Carter, A.J. and O'Neill, D.G. (2020) 'Incidence and risk factors for heat-related illness (heatstroke) in UK dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016', Scientific Reports, 10(1), 9128, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-66015-8.

 

1. Heeley, A.M., O'Neill, D.G., Davison, L.J., Church, D.B., Corless, E.K. and Brodbelt, D.C. (2020) 'Diabetes mellitus in dogs attending UK primary-care practices: frequency, risk factors and survival', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 7(1), 6, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40575-020-00087-7.

 

1. Kathrani, A., Church, D.B., Brodbelt, D.C., Pegram, C. and O'Neill, D.G. (2020) 'The use of hydrolysed diets for vomiting and/or diarrhoea in cats in primary veterinary practice', Journal of Small Animal Practice, 61(12), 723-731, available: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13214.

 

1. Long, S., Carveth, H., Chang, Y.-M., O'Neill, D. and Bond, R. (2020) 'Isolation of dermatophytes from dogs and cats in the South of England between 1991 and 2017', Veterinary Record, vetrec-2020-105957, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/vr.105957.

 

1. O’Neill, D.G., Pegram, C., Crocker, P., Brodbelt, D.C., Church, D.B. and Packer, R.M.A. (2020) 'Unravelling the health status of brachycephalic dogs in the UK using multivariable analysis', Scientific Reports, 10(1), 17251, available: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-73088-y.

 

1. O'Neill, D.G., Brodbelt, D.C., Hodge, R., Church, D.B. and Meeson, R.L. (2020) 'Epidemiology and clinical management of elbow joint disease in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK', Canine Medicine and Genetics, 7

Dan contributes to teaching on a wide range of epidemiology modules for RVC veterinary undergraduates, residents, veterinary nurses, as well as MSc and PhD students. He also provides epidemiological and statistical support to individual students. He supervises many undergraduate and post-graduate student projects including chapters within several PhD studies. He has lectured widely at over 90 conferences in the UK, Europe and also in the US in the past 5 years.

• Chairperson and founding member of the UK Brachycephalic Dog Working Group (BWG)
• Board member and founding member of the International Collaborative on Extreme Conformations in Dogs (ICECDogs)
• Founding member and board member of the Legal Advisory Group on Extreme Conformation in Dogs (LAGECDogs)
• Member of RCVS Knowledge Quality Improvement Group
• Member of RVC Welfare and Ethics Committee
• Founding member and trustee of Dog Breeding Reform Group
• Member of RCVS, BVA, BSAVA, UFAW and SVEPM

• A solution right under our nose? Exploring health implications and public demand for brachycephalic ÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥˜designerÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥™ outcrosses

  

  Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs continue to grow in popularity internationally despite their well-documented health challenges. This study explores two questions: (1) Do brachycephalic-outcrosses exhibit improved respiratory and ‘innate’ health characteristics compared to their extreme-brachycephalic parent-breed?; (2) Do brachycephalic-outcrosses meet the aesthetic preferences of people who desire extreme-brachycephalic purebreds?

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  A solution right under our nose? Exploring health implications and public demand for brachycephalic ÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥˜designerÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥™ outcrosses (In Progress)

  People: Lizzie Youens, Dan O'Neill, Rowena Packer

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  Do brachycephalic-outcrosses exhibit improved respiratory and ‘innate’ health characteristics compared to their extreme-brachycephalic parent-breed?

  Do brachycephalic-outcrosses meet the aesthetic-preferences of people who desire extreme-brachycephalic purebreds?

• 

  Antimicrobial usage in farm animal veterinary practice in the UK: A mixed-methods approach (In Progress)

  People: David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill, Richard Booth

  Vet Compass Project Type: Farm Animal

  The aims of this study are to estimate current antimicrobial usage in Farm Veterinary Practice and investigate the intrinsic factors and extrinsic factors associated with farm veterinarian decision-making when prescribing antimicrobials as well as exploring the drivers behind farmers' decision when using antimicrobials.

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  Are lop-eared rabbits more predisposed to dental and ear diseases than erect-eared rabbits? (Complete)

  People: Charlotte Burn, David Brodbelt, Joanna Hedley, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Rabbit

  We aim to deepen understanding of the animal welfare impacts of dental and ear disease in rabbits, and to identify breed related risk factors for these. We plan to use the new information to improve rabbit welfare by raising awareness of any dental and ear health implications from selecting for rabbit with extreme morphology.  

• 

  BVetMed RP2 Research Projects (In Progress)

  People: Dan O'Neill, David Brodbelt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog, Cat, Small Mammal, Exotic

  All BVetMed veterinary undergraduates at the RVC are required to complete a formal piece of research (named Research Project 2 “RP2”) as part of their route towards gaining a veterinary degree. This project is a Level 7 body of work that is at the level of a master’s project. VetCompass supports students to undertake these RP2 projects at the RVC. The Kennel Club Charitable Trust has supported several VetCompass RP2s annually on topics related to canine health.

• 

  Canine health and welfare research funding in the UK: Current status and future opportunities (In Progress)

  People: Dan O'Neill, Rowena Packer

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This project, supported by four leading UK canine charities in partnership with the RVC, will explore the levels and distribution of UK canine health research funding over the last decade, and analyse the areas of research this has included. Through collaborative discussion with funders, vets, scientists, dog breeders and owners, the project will develop a joint strategy to agree priorities for future research funding decisions.

• Canine leptospirosis: improving diagnostics and understanding epidemiology in UK dogs

  

  This project aims to explore the epidemiology of canine leptospirosis in the UK by identifying spatial patterns of disease, diagnosis risk factors and incidence of disease. Alongside this work is being undertaken to explore vaccine usage and vaccine adverse events. Additionally, a novel serological assay with potentialp DIVA ability is being explored.

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  Current Usage of Antimicrobials in UK Cats and Dogs (Complete)

  People: Dan O'Neill, David Church, David Brodbelt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Cat, Dog

  This research characterised and quantified antimicrobial use in cats and dogs attending a large group of UK veterinary practices, in order to establish companion animal antimicrobial prescribing behaviour.  

• 

  Diabetes mellitus and antibiotics ÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥“ exploring the use of antibiotics as a risk factor for the disease (Complete)

  People: Lucy Davison, David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  The project aims to report the incidence of canine diabetes mellitus cases diagnosed in primary care veterinary practices in the United Kingdom and to describe and explore systemic antibiotic usage prior to dogs developing diabetes mellitus.

• 

  Disease Surveillance in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Chow Chows in the UK (Complete)

  People: David Church, David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This project explored the frequency of disorders recorded in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Chow Chows attending primary-care veterinary practices in the UK. The project also looked at the feasibility of linking Kennel Club pedigree data with VetCompass data.

• Do lop-eared rabbits have more dental and aural disease than erect-eared rabbits?

  

  Initial evidence has shown that rabbits with artificially selected extreme morphological traits of lop ears and brachycephaly experience reduced welfare through a higher prevalence of painful ear and teeth problems, a cause for concern as lops and dwarves are the most popular pet rabbit breeds in the UK. This study aims to determine the prevalence of these diseases in UK pet rabbits using VetCompass data that represents approximately 30% of UK practices. 

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  Dogs Trust Canine Welfare Grant Project: Evidence-Based Prioritisation of Canine Inherited Diseases (Complete)

  People: David Church, David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This study aims to create an evidence-based prioritisation list of inherited health disorders to underpin reforms of canine health and welfare.

• Earlier Onset Urinary Incontinence in the Bitch and its Association with Neutering

  

  Funded by BSAVA PetSavers, this project aims to evaluate major risk factors for development of urinary incontinence in bitches. In particular, it will explore the association between neutering and age at time of neutering with onset of early incontinence.

  The project will provide relevant and reliable evidence that can support a more universal approach from veterinary surgeons and provide advice to dog owners regarding neutering.

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  Earlier Onset Urinary Incontinence in the Bitch and its Association with Neutering (Complete)

  People: Dan O'Neill, David Brodbelt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  Funded by BSAVA PetSavers, this project aims to evaluate major risk factors for development of urinary incontinence in bitches.  In particular, it will explore the association between neutering and age at time of neutering with onset of early incontinence. 

• 

  Epidemiology of Disorders Reported in Cats and Dogs Attending General Practice in England (Complete)

  People: Dan O'Neill, David Church, David Brodbelt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Cat, Dog

  This project reports on the most common disorders of dogs and cats attending veterinary practice in the UK, their longevity and mortality, and risk factors for chronic kidney disease in dogs.

• Hot Dogs - investigating the epidemiology and recognition of heat-related illness in dogs presenting to UK veterinary practices.

  

  This project began by exploring risk factors for heat-related illness in UK dogs and has been extended to develop and evaluate a novel clinical grading tool that aims to improve recognition and management of this potentially fatal condition.

  Understanding the risk factors for heat-related illness is an important step in developing improved mitigation strategies to help protect canine welfare in the face of advancing climate change. 

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• Improved Stewardship to Protect Veterinary Antimicrobial Usage in UK Cats and Dogs

  

  This study aims to identify and promote effective antimicrobial stewardship interventions in UK first-opinion companion animal practice. Our objectives are to benchmark current antimicrobial usage in dogs and cats, develop and implement a range of antimicrobial stewardship interventions, evaluate the impact of these interventions, and promote widespread adoption of the most effective interventions across the UK.

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  Improved Stewardship to Protect Veterinary Antimicrobial Usage in UK Cats and Dogs (In Progress)

  People: David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill, Sian Frosini, Noel Kennedy, David Church

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog, Cat, Small Animal

  Funded by the Petplan Charitable Trust, this project aims to identify and promote effective and practical antimicrobial stewardship interventions for widespread adoption in veterinary practice.

• 

  K-BAD: Estimating the Kanine Burden of Animal Disease in the UK (In progress)

  People: David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This project aims to assess canine disease burden in the UK, focusing on key breeds, and model the effects of potential changing breed ownership patterns on the overall health of the UK dog population. 

• 

  Kennel Club Charitable Trust Companion Animal Epidemiologist - Disorders of UK Companion Animals (In Progress)

  People: Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog, Cat, Small Mammal, Exotic

  This collaborative venture between the ÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥ (RVC) and the Kennel Club Charitable Trust (KCCT) will investigate

  • Canine breed-specific disorder prevalence
  • Risk factors for important canine conditions
  • Common disorders in other small animal species
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  Morris Animal Foundation Canine Cancer Epidemiology Research Programme (In progress)

  People: David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill, Sandra Guillen, Collette Taylor

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This project aims to explore the frequency of different cancers and factors associated with these cancers in dogs from the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study cohort. Alongside this, VetCompass health data will be examined to explore cancer frequency and risk factors in both Golden Retrievers and the wider, UK primary-practice attending population. 

• Online canine-health information sourcing by UK canine caregivers: threat or opportunity for animal welfare? (The DogWeb Survey)

  

  The project involves an interactive survey, consisting of realistic dog health scenarios. The aim is to explore UK dog owners' decision-making around their dog's health.

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  Pre-owned pooches: Characterising commercial and private re-homing and re-selling systems for dogs aged > 16 weeks in the UK and implications for canine welfare

  People: Rowena Packer, Dan O'Neill, Bree Merritt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This PhD project will explore the re-sale of dogs over 16 weeks old that are sold through online advertisements in the UK: the demographics of dogs advertised; the demographics, motivations, and experiences of their sellers and buyers; and how the UK public perceives the online re-sale of dogs compared to other rehoming options.

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  RCVS VetCompass Equine Pandemic Project (Complete)

  People: Sarah Allen, Dan O'Neill, Jackie Cardwell, Kristien Verheyen, David Brodbelt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Horse

  The COVID-19 pandemic presents a serious challenge for the customer-facing veterinary profession.  To ensure minimal disruption to essential veterinary services, new COVID-mitigated working protocols were quickly implemented, however, little is known about the impact of the pandemic on equine veterinary care in the UK.  The aim of this project was to describe equine veterinary activity before and during the pandemic and explore the contribution of telemedicine to case management. 

• 

  Re-Inventing Diagnosis and Management of Canine Hyperadrenocorticism (Complete)

  People: Dan O'Neill, David Brodbelt, David Church

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This project, funded by Dechra, aims to determine better methods for the earlier detection and monitoring of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs.  More effective diagnosis and monitoring may result in improved quality of life.

• 

  RVC Pandemic Puppies Research Programme (In Progress)

  People: Rowena Packer, Dan O'Neill, Claire Brand, Kim Stevens, Bree Merritt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog, Pandemic Puppies

  The ÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥ (RVC) is calling for respondents for its survey on puppy buying experiences both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic

• 

  The DogWeb Survey (Complete)

  People: Michelle Farrow, Rowena Packer, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  This study aims to explore whether and how online information sourcing affects the decision-making of UK canine caregivers when deciding whether to seek veterinary care for dogs exhibiting clinical signs of disease.

• 

  UFAW/RVC Companion Animal Genetic Health and Welfare Research (Complete)

  People: David Brodbelt, Dan O'Neill

  Vet Compass Project Type: Cat, Dog, Horse

  This project developed evidence-based recommendations on breed-related health and welfare problems in companion animals.

• 

  Use of Systemic Antimicrobials in UK Equine Practice (Complete)

  People: Kristien Verheyen, Dan O'Neill, David Brodbelt

  Vet Compass Project Type: Horse

  The project aims to investigate the use of systemic antimicrobials in UK equine practice using anonymised veterinary electronic patient record data.

• 

  VetCompass eClinical Trials (In Progress)

  People: Dan O'Neill, David Brodbelt, Ruby Chang, Noel Kennedy

  Vet Compass Project Type: Dog

  The study aims to develop innovative statistical approaches to veterinary electronic patient records to evaluate the effectiveness of clinical interventions in dogs.

• VetCompass eClinical Trials (VETs) ÐÂÔÂÖ±²¥“ Generating Interventional Evidence from Observational Data

  

  The study aims to develop innovative statistical approaches to veterinary electronic patient records to evaluate the effectiveness of clinical interventions in dogs.

  This project aims to develop and apply novel causal inference methods that evaluate real world interventions via routinely collected veterinary EPRs. These methods will be applied to VetCompass data to provide real world inference for some key interventions.

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• VetCompass Project

  

  VetCompass is a welfare-focussed epidemiological research project that shares anonymised clinical data from veterinary practices to investigate the frequency and nature of companion animal health problems.

  Modern veterinary medicine has access to increasingly effective tools for diagnosis and treatment; yet many animals still continue to suffer from disorders that might be reduced or avoided if risks were better understood and measured. 

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