Ashley Saunders

Ashley Saunders

Professor & Assistant Department Head for Teaching, Ch’en Chair in Cardiovascular Research
Cardiology
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
Contact
9798452351
TAMU Mailstop: 4474

Research and Scholarly Interests

Cardiology:

  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Congenital heart disease
  • Chagas disease
  • Heart failure management
  • Innovative teaching    

Biography


"Dr. Ashley Saunders is a Professor of Cardiology at Texas A&M University, where she has served as a faculty member since 2005. Dr. Saunders has a Post Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Education from the Royal Veterinary College in London. In 2022, she was recognized as Texas A&M University's Presidential Professor of Teaching Excellence. She is passionate about cardiac imaging and interventions, pursuing opportunities to improve care for those affected by Chagas disease, creating innovative teaching methods to promote learning, and training future cardiologists."

 

Education


University of London, The Royal Veterinary College | London, ENG
Post-Graduate Certification in Veterinary Education, 2017

Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine | Englewood, CO
Small Animal Cardiology, 2005

Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences | College Station, TX
Small Animal Cardiology Residency, 2005

University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine | Knoxville, TN
Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Internship, 2002

Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences | College Station, TX
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, 2001

Texas A&M University | College Station, TX
Bachelor of Science, 1998

 

Licensure


Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners: 9106

 

Honors & Awards


Award/Honor Organization Year
Research Award Texas Veterinary Medical Association 2024
Presidential Professor of Teaching Excellence Texas A&M University 2022
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy UK 2018
University Level Distinguished Achievement Award in Teaching Texas A&M University Association of Former Students 2016
One Health Scholar Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) 2016
College Level Teaching Award Texas A&M University Association of Former Students 2015
Blackboard Catalyst Award for Student Impact   2014
Bridges Teaching and Service Award Texas A&M University 2011
Clinical Service Award Texas A&M University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital 2010
Richard H. Davis Teaching Award Texas A&M University 2010
Montague Center for Teaching Excellence Scholar   2009

 

Professional Organizations


American Society of Echocardiography | 2020 - Ongoing

Veterinary Interventional Radiology & Interventional Endoscopy Society (VIRIES) | 2016 - Ongoing

American Association of Veterinary Clinicians | 2006 - Ongoing

American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine | 2005 - Ongoing

American Veterinary Medical Association | 2001 - Ongoing

Texas Veterinary Medical Association | 2001 - 2008, 2019

Phi Zeta, Eta Chapter | 2005 - 2011

Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society | 1998 - 2000

Funded Research


1. Antiparasitic treatment of Trypanosoma cruzi-infected dogs across different stages of disease for clinical cardiac improvements: The 100 dog study.

Role: Co-Primary Investigator
Co-investigators: Hamer, SA; Busselman, R; Tarleton, R
Funding source: AKC Canine Health Foundation Oak Grant 02980
Date funded: 2024
Total Funding: $154,815.00

 

2. Canine Chagas Disease Prevalence, Prevention, & Operational Capability Protection.

Role: Co-Investigator
Co-investigators: Manley, HL; Hamer, SA; Tarleton, R
Funding source: Contract with Cross-Border Threat Screening (CBTS) and Supply Chain Defense, A Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence
Date funded: September 2024 - September 2026
Total Funding: $1,209,771.00

 

3. Treatment outcome requirements for disease prevention in Chagas disease.

Role: Co-Investigator
Co-investigators: Tarleton, R; Hamer, SA
Funding source: NIH 1 R01 AI180075-01
Date funded: August 2024 - May 2028
Total Funding: $2,242,327.00

 

4. Screening for Leishmania in dogs at risk for Trypansoma cruzi infection to investigate increasing parasitic disease rates in Texas.

Role: Co-Investigator
Co-investigators: Hamer, SA; Wetzel, D
Funding source: Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Pilot Award supported by NIH Award: 1UL1TR003163-01A1
Date funded: June 2024
Total Funding: $40,000.00

 

5. Assessing treatment efficacy of benznidazole for curing Trypanosoma cruzi infection and improving clinical outcome in client-owned, naturally-infected dogs with Chagas disease.

Role: Co-Primary Investigator
Co-investigators: Hamer, SA; Tarleton, R
Funding source: American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) and Veterinary Pharmacology Research Foundation (VPRF)
Date funded: January 2022
Total Funding: $30,000.00

 

6. Canine systemic insecticides as a novel intervention to protect dogs from triatomine insect vectors of Chagas disease. Advancing antiparasitic treatment options for Chagas disease using naturally-infected canines in Texas as a model study system.

Role: Co-Investigator
Co-investigators: Busselman, R; Balasubramanian, S; Hamer, G; Hamer, S
Funding source: AKC Canine Health Foundation Oak Grant 02980
Date funded: January 2022
Total Funding: $65,713.00

 

7. Advancing antiparasitic treatment options for Chagas disease using naturally-infected canines in Texas as a model study system.

Role: Co-Primary Investigator
Co-investigators: Hamer, SA
Funding source: Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Pilot Award supported by NIH Award: 1UL1TR003163-01A1
Date funded: January 2022
Total Funding: $25,000.00

 

8. Evaluation of small transesophageal echocardiography probes and potential complications associated with transesophageal echocardiography in dogs with congenital heart disease.

Role: Co-Primary Investigator
Co-investigators: Stoner, C; Cook, AK; Lidbury, JA; Heseltine, JC
Funding source: Ginn Fund, Texas A&M University
Date funded: 2019
Total Funding: $14,900.00

 

9. Canine Chagas disease: Characterizing cardiac disease and developing screening recommendations for asymptomatic dogs seropositive for Trypanosoma cruzi.

Role: Primary Investigator
Co-investigators: Wesselowski, SW; Hamer, SA; Steiner, JM
Funding source: AKC Canine Health Foundation Oak Grant 02632
Date funded: June 2019
Total Funding: $65,691.00

 

10. Correlation between cardiac biomarkers and cardiac enlargement in Cavalier King Charles spaniels with pre-clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease.

Role: Co-Investigator
Co-investigators: Wesselowski, SW; Gordon, SG
Funding source: Cavalier Health Foundation
Date funded: 2018-2020
Total Funding: $50,000.00

1VM

  • VTPP 910
  • VMID 912
  • VMID 981

2VM

  • VTPP 924
  • VTPB 320

3VM

  • VSCS 934
  • VSCS 948
  • VSCS 954
  • VMID 966
  • VSCS 956
  • VSCS 988

 

Graduate Students


Name Trainee Position Year
Tiana Sanders PhD, Committee member 2025-present
Achu Geetha Byju PhD, Committee member 2024-present
Alyssa Meyers PhD, Committee member 2016-2019
Adriana Lucia Perea Lugo MS, Committee member 2005-2010

 

House Officers


Name Trainee Position Year
Bobbie Ditzler Cardiology Resident (Previously Cardiology Research Intern) Summer 2024-Summer 2028
Jacob Dunham Cardiology Research Intern Summer 2025-Summer 2026
Sukjung Lim Cardiology Resident (Previously Cardiology Research Intern) Summer 2023-Summer 2027
Samantha Eisner Cardiology Resident Summer 2023-Summer 2026
Rachel Meyers Cardiology Resident Summer 2023-Spring 2025
Kendra Zelachowski Cardiology Resident Summer 2022-Summer 2025
Elizabeth Malcolm Cardiology Resident (Previously Cardiology Research Intern) Summer 2020-Summer 2024
Briana Wilson Cardiology Research Intern Summer 2021-Summer 2022
K. Tess Sykes Cardiology Resident (Previously Cardiology Research Intern) Summer 2019-Summer 2023
Caitlin Stoner Cardiology Resident Summer 2019-Summer 2022
Sage Hubert Cardiology Clinical Intern Summer 2019-Summer 2020
Clint Lynn Rotating Intern Summer 2019-Summer 2020
Abigail Romano Rotating Intern Summer 2019-Summer 2020
Blakeley Janacek Cardiology Resident Summer 2018-Summer 2021
Katrina Cusack Cardiology Resident Summer 2017-Summer 2020
Derek Matthews Cardiology Resident Summer 2016-Summer 2019
Lauren Timperman Rotating Intern Summer 2016-Summer 2017
Bruno Boutet Cardiology Resident (Previously Cardiology Clinical Intern) Summer 2014-Summer 2018
Kelley Doocy Cardiology Resident Summer 2014-Summer 2017
Jordan Vitt Cardiology Resident Summer 2013-Summer 2016
Aimee Daniel Rotating Intern Summer 2013-Summer 2014
Randolph Winter Cardiology Resident Summer 2011-Summer 2014
Justin Carlson Cardiology Resident Summer 2010-Summer 2013
Robert George Rotating Intern Summer 2010-Summer 2011
Ryan Fries Cardiology Resident Summer 2009-Summer 2012
Megan Rector Rotating Intern Summer 2009-Summer 2010
Crystal Hariu Cardiology Resident Summer 2008-Summer 2011
Amanda DeMaster Rotating Intern Summer 2008-Summer 2009
Elaine Holmes Rotating Intern Summer 2007-Summer 2008
Gretchen Singletary Rotating Intern Summer 2007-Summer 2008
Eryn Shipley Rotating Intern Summer 2007-Summer 2008
Sarah Achen Cardiology Resident Summer 2006-Summer 2009
Andrew Hanzlicek Rotating Intern Summer 2006-Summer 2007
Anthony Cappa Cardiology Clinical Intern Summer 2006-Summer 2007
Lori Drourr Cardiology Resident Summer 2005-Summer 2008
Risa Roland Cardiology Resident Summer 2004-Summer 2007

 

Other


Name Trainee Position Year
Juan Carlos Robles VSCS 685 - Directed Studies, CVMBS Fall 2007
Sofia Rowther VSCS 485 - Directed Studies, BIMS Fall 2006

 

Dr. Saunders’ U.S. National Library of Medicine Bibliography https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/1XMNwV9Nk3uIiu/bibliography/public/

 

Publications in Refereed Journals


Zelachowski KA*, Collins S, Henderson M, Auckland LD, Lim S, Jeffery ND, Hamer SA, Saunders AB. ECG abnormalities are associated with seropositive Trypanosoma cruzi infection status using a simplified cardiac diagnostic evaluation in dogs. Accepted J Am Vet Med Assoc August 2024.

Busselman RE, Killets KC, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Viable Trypanosoma cruzi cultured from a dead Paratriatoma lecticularia (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) encountered in a large dog kennel environment in south Texas, USA. Journal of Medical Entomology

Wesselowski S, Janacek B, Sykes KT, Saunders AB. Electrocardiographic abnormalities are frequently detected in healthy, adult Borzoi with a normal echocardiogram. Accepted J Am Vet Med Assoc 2024.

Weisse C, Asano K, Ishigaki K, Lipscomb V, Zwingenberger AL, Carroll KA, Vilaplana Grosso FR, Stock E, Buote N, Aly A, Murgia D, Arai S, zur Linden A, Gordon J, Monassero M, Schwarz T, Wallace ML, Graham J, Hardie R, Chang Y, Robbins M, Bismuth C, Karnia J, Sterman A, Saunders A, Montinaro V, Guarnera I, McLauchlan G, Cern aP, Maurin M, Aisa J. Anatomical classification of feline congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts based on CT angiography: A SVSTS and VIRIES Multi-Institutional study in 231 cats. Vet Radiol Ultras 2024;65:359-368. PMID: 38597362

Tarleton RL, Saunders AB, Lococo B, Gianni MGA, Laucella S, Hodo CL, Wilkerson GK, Hamer SA. The unfortunate abundance of Trypanosoma cruzi naturally-infected dogs and monkeys provides unique opportunities to advance solutions for Chagas disease. Zoonoses 2024;4:15.

Lim S*, Collins S, Hamer SA, Tarleton RL, Saunders AB. Positive clinical outcome using a modified  dosing regimen of benznidazole in dogs at high risk for infection or acutely infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. J Vet Intern Med 2024;38:1725-1729. PMID: 38500407

Wesselowski S, Saunders AB. Transesophageal echocardiography using a microprobe for determination of transcatheter procedural candidacy, device selection and procedural monitoring in small dogs with patent ductus arteriosus. J Vet Cardiol 2024;52:35-42. PMID: 38422726.

Denton M, Vitt JP, Saunders AB, Wesselowski S. Double outlet right atrium in an American domestic shorthair cat. Adult Congenital Heart Disease Special Issue. Cardiovascular Imaging Case Reports (CASE) 2024;8(3Part A);241-246. PMID: 38524989.

Malcolm EL, Saunders AB. Complex tetralogy of Fallot in an acyanotic adult dog. Adult Congenital Heart Disease Special Issue. Cardiovascular Imaging Case Reports (CASE) 2024;8(3Part A):231-235. PMID: 38524971.

Wesselowski S, Sykes KT, Saunders AB, Werre SR. Echocardiographic values and prevalence of cardiac abnormalities in clinically healthy adult Borzoi dogs. Am J Vet Res 2024;1-10. PMID: 38154250.

Saunders AB, Stoner CH. Current use of transesophageal echocardiography in animals. J Vet Cardiol 2024;51:35-52. PMID: 38071799 **Invited review for the Advanced Cardiac Imaging Special Issue

Busselman RE, Curtis-Robles R, Meyers AC, Zecca IB, Auckland LD, Hodo CL, Christopher D, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Abundant triatomines in Texas dog kennel environments: Triatomine collections, infection with Trypanosoma cruzi, and blood feeding hosts. Acta Tropica 2024;250:107087. PMID: 38061614

Wesselowski S, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Sykes KT, Vitt J, Boutet B, Haggstrom J, Kadotani S, Stack J, Barnet BG. Use of physical examination, electrocardiography, radiography and biomarkers to predict echocardiographic stage B2 myxomatous mitral valve disease in preclinical Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. J Vet Cardiol 2023;50:1-16. PMID: 37913604

Rodriguez CA, Busselman RE, Shen H, Saunders AB, Tarleton R, Hamer SA. Validation of a multiplex microsphere immunoassay for detection of antibodies to Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs. J Vet Diagnostic Invest 2023;35:704-709. PMID: 37670473

Wesselowski S, Lidbury J, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM. Analytical validation, sample stability, and clinical evaluation of a new high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I immunoassay for use in dogs, with comparison to a previous ultrasensitive assay. PLOS One 2023;18:e0288801. PMID: 37463140

Matthews DJ*, Fries RC, Jeffery ND, Hamer SA, Saunders AB. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging detects myocardial abnormalities in naturally infected dogs with chronic, asymptomatic Chagas disease. Animals 2023;13(8):1393. PMID: 37106957 **Awarded the Journal Cover Image

Christopher DM, Curtis- Robles R, Hamer GL, Bejcek J, Saunders AB, Roachell WD, Cropper TL, Hamer SA. Collection of triatomines from sylvatic habitats by a Trypanosoma cruzi-infected scent detection dog in Texas, USA. PLOS Negl Trop Dis 2023;1-21. PMID: 36940217 **Awarded the Journal Cover Image

Bustamante JM, White B, Wilderson GK, Hodo CL, Auckland LD, Wang W, McCain S, Hamer SA, Saunders AB, Tarleton RL. Frequency variation and dose modification of benznidazole administration for the treatment of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in mice, dogs and non-human primates. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2023;67:e0013223. PMID: 37039666

Sykes KT, Wesselowski S, Saunders AB, Tjostheim SS, Potter BM, Gelzer ARM, Katz N, Ward JL, Karlin ET, Markovic LE, Magee AN, Abbott JA, Kadotani S, Menciotti G. A multicenter, retrospective study of cardiac disease in Borzoi dogs. Frontiers Vet Sci 2023. PMID: 36777677.

Gavic EA, Achen SE, Fox PR, Benjamin EJ, Goodwin J, Gunasekaran T, Schober KE, Tjostheim SS, Vickers J, Ward JL, Russell DS, Rishniw M, Hamer SA, Saunders AB. Trypanosoma cruzi infection diagnosed in dogs in non-endemic areas and results from a survey suggest a need for increased Chagas’ disease awareness in North America. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2023;261:705-712. PMID: 36735504 **Awarded Outstanding JAVMA Intern Manuscript 2023

Stoner CH*, Saunders AB. Evaluation of two probes for transesophageal echocardiography in small dogs: imaging capabilities, image quality, and usability. J Vet Cardiol 2023;45:41-49. PMID: 36696791

Bustamante JM, Padilla AM, White B, Auckland LD, Busselman RE, Collins S, Malcolm EL, Wilson BF, Saunders AB, Hamer SA, Tarleton RL. Prophylactic low-dose, bi-weekly benznidazole treatment fails to prevent Trypanosoma cruzi infection in dogs under intense transmission pressure. PLOS Negl Trop Dis 2022;16:e0010688. PMID: 36315597

Hamer SA, Saunders AB. Veterinary Chagas Disease (American Trypanosomiasis) in the  United States. Vet Clin North Am Sm Anim Pract 2022;52:1267-81. PMID: 36336420

Wesselowski S, Saunders AB, Werre S, Gordon SG, Echocardiographic measurement of the mitral valve in normal Cavalier King Charles spaniels: repeatability, optimal future study methods, and preliminary reference intervals. J Vet Cardiol 2022;43:81-92. PMID: 36099705

Winter RL, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Nelson DA, Cusack K, Hubert S, Thieman-Mankin K,  Howard J, Selmic LE, Clark WA, Rhinehart JD, Schober KE, Berman DP. Hybrid balloon valvuloplasty for management of severe mitral stenosis in four symptomatic, adult dogs. J Vet Cardiology 2022;42:83-91. PMID: 35863126

Boutet BG, Gorson SG, Navas De Solis C, Lepiz MA, Saunders AB, Wesselowski S. Feasibility and clinical utility of transvenous intracardiac echocardiography in conscious, sedated horses. J Vet Cardiol 2022;42:15-22. PMID: 35662025

Tayce JD, Saunders AB. The use of a modified script concordance test in clinical rounds to  foster and assess clinical reasoning skills. J Vet Med Educ 2022; 49:556-559. PMID: 34784257

Alvarez-Sanchez A, Townsend KL, LeBlanc NL, Milovancev M, Scollan KF, Heatley J, Hoppes S, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Nelson DA, Pesce K, Salmeri KR, Swift ST, Case JB, Heard D, Thomason JD. Epicardial pacemaker implantation and outcome in eight pet ferrets (Mustela putorius furo). J Vet Cardiol 2022; 42:44-56. PMID: 35240454

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Wesselowski S. Asymptomatic canine degenerative valve disease: Diagnosis, current and future therapies. Vet Clin North Am Sm Anim Pract 2022;52:819-840. PMID: 35465907

Wesselowski S, Gordon SG, Meddaugh N, Saunders AB, Haggstrom J, Cusack K, Janacek BW. Matthews DJ. Prediction of clinically important acquired cardiac disease without an echocardiogram in large breed dogs using a combination of clinical, radiographic and electrocardiographic variables. J Vet Cardiol 2022;40:126-141. PMID: 34483077

Malcolm EL, Saunders AB, Vitt JP, Boutet BG, Hamer SA. Anti-parasitic therapy with itraconazole and amiodarone in two dogs with severe, symptomatic Chagas cardiomyopathy. J Vet Intern Med 2022;36:1100-1105. PMID: 35388923

Stoner CH*, Saunders AB, Heseltine JC, Cook AK, Lidbury JA. Prospective evaluation of complications associated with transesophageal echocardiography in dogs with congenital heart disease. J Vet Intern Med 2022;36:406-416. PMID: 34997940

Wesselowski SW, Cusack K, Saunders AB, Jeffery ND. Pre-procedural femoral vessel ultrasound in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus: diameter, image quality and relationship with arterial catheterization. J Vet Cardiol 2022;39:69-78. PMID: 34996021

Busselman RE, Meyers A, Zecca I, Auckland LD, Castro AH, Dowd RE, Curtis-Robles R, Hodo CL, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. High incidence of Trypanosoma cruzi infections in dogs directly detected through longitudinal tracking at 10 multi-dog kennels, Texas, USA. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021;15:e0009935. PMID: 34758049

Saunders AB. Key considerations in the approach to congenital heart disease in dogs and cats. J Sm Anim Pract 2021;62:613-623. PMID: 34180062 **Invited Review; Designated Editors’ Choice in August 2021.

Matthews D*, Saunders AB, Meyers AC, Gordon SG, Hamer SA. Cardiac diagnostic test results and outcomes in 44 dogs naturally infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. J Vet Intern Med 2021;33:16951706. PMID: 31119786

Meyers AC, Edwards EE, Sanders JP, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Fatal Chagas myocarditis in government working dogs in the southern United States: cross-reactivity and differential diagnoses in five cases across six months. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021;24:100545. PMID: 34024363

Tayce J, Saunders AB, Korich J, Keefe L. The creation of a collaborative, case-based learning experience in a large-enrollment classroom. J Vet Med Educ 2021;48:14-20. PMID: 33594954

Romano AE*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Wesselowski S. Intracardiac Heartworms in Dogs: Clinical and Echocardiographic Characteristics in 72 cases (2010-2019). J Vet Intern Med 2021;35:88-97. PMID: 33617036

Cusack K, Wesselowski S, Saunders AB, Jeffery ND. Correlations between age, body size, and conformation and ultrasound-measured femoral vessel diameter in the dog, with implications for transvascular procedural planning. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2021;62:98-107. PMID: 33128828

Sykes KT*, Saunders AB, Hoffmann AR, Porter BF. Histologic comparison in two Doberman pinschers with a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype. J Vet Cardiol 2021;33:1-5. PMID: 33221699

Stoner C*, Saunders AB. Cardiac manifestations of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in a domestic dog. Cardiovascular Imaging Case Reports (CASE) 2020;4:410-414. PMID: 33117940

Sykes KT*, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Vitt JP, O’Brien MT, Fries RC. Palliative combined cutting and high-pressure balloon valvuloplasty in six dogs with severe, symptomatic subaortic stenosis. J Vet Cardiol 2020;31:36-50. PMID: 32977126 **Publication designated Editors’ Choice in October 2020.

Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Chagas disease: Trypanosoma cruzi infection in dogs. Today’s Veterinary Practice July/August 2020.

Saunders AB, Wesselowski S, Cusack K. Transesophageal echocardiography guided Dirofilaria immitis extraction from the right atrium in a dog. Cardiovascular Imaging Case Reports (CASE) 2020;4:299-302. PMID: 32875199

Boswood A, Gordon SG, Haggstrom J, Vanselow M, Wess G, Stepien RL, Oyama MA, Keene BW, Bonagura J, MacDonald KA, Patteson M, Smith S, Fox PR, Sanderson K, Woolley R, Szatmari V, Menaut P, Church WM, O’Sullivan ML, Jaudon JP, Kresken JG, Rush J, Barrett KA, Rosenthal SL, Saunders AB, Ljungvall I, Deinert M, Bomassi E, Estrada AH, Fernandez Del Palacio MJ, Moise NS, Abbot JA, Fujii Y, Spier A, Luethy MW, Santilli RA, Uechi M, Tidholm A, Schummer C, Watson P. Temporal changes in clinical and radiographic variables in dogs with preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease: The EPIC study. J Vet Intern Med 2020;34:1108-1118. PMID: 32200574

Meyers AC, Ellis MM, Purnell JC, Auckland LD, Meinders M, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Selected cardiac abnormalities in Trypanosoma cruzi serologically positive, discordant, and negative working dogs along the Texas-Mexico border. BMC Vet Res 2020;16:101. PMID: 32228593

Zecca IB, Hodo CL, Slack S, Auckland L, Rodgers S, Killets KC, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi infection and associated histologic findings in domestic cats (Felis catus). Vet Parasitol 2020;278:109014. PMID: 31972512

Meyers AC*, Hamer SA, Matthews DM, Gordon SG, Saunders AB. Risk factors and select cardiac characteristics associated with Trypanosoma cruzi infection in naturally infected dogs presenting to a teaching hospital in Texas. J Vet Intern Med 2019;33:1695-1706. PMID: 31119786

Wesselowski S, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Anatomy, baseline characteristics and procedural outcome of patent ductus arteriosus in German shepherd dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2019;33:471477. PMID: 30556180

Wesselowski S, Cusack K, Gordon SG, Jeffery N, Saunders AB. Artificial cardiac pacemaker placement in dogs with a cohort of myocarditis suspects and association of ultrasensitive cardiac troponin I with survival. J Vet Cardiol 2019;22:84-95. PMID: 30573438

Fries RC, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Hariu C, Miller M, Schaeffer D. Quantitative assessment of two- and three-dimensional transthoracic and two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging in normal canine hearts. J Vet Cardiol 2019;21:79-92. PMID: 30797448

Saunders AB, Doocy KR, Birch SA. A pictorial view of the three-dimensional representation and comparative two-dimensional image orientation derived from computed tomography angiography in a dog with a patent ductus arteriosus. J Vet Cardiol 2019;21:34-40. PMID: 30797443 **Awarded the Journal Cover Image

Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Focus on Pharmacology: Pimobendan use in cats. Today’s Veterinary Practice 2018;July/Aug:1-3. 68. Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Focus on Pharmacology: Pimobendan and heart disease. Today’s Veterinary Practice 2018;July/Aug:2-7.

Cook AK, Saunders AB. Finding the balance in your patients with cardiovascular and renal disease. Today’s Veterinary Practice 2018;8:27-37.

Doocy KR*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Jeffery N. Comparative, multidimensional imaging of patent ductus arteriosus and a proposed update to the morphology classification system for dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2018;32:648-657. PMID: 29460426

Boswood A, Gordon SG, Haggstrom J, Wess G, Stepien RL, Oyama MA, Keene BW, Bonagura J, MacDonald KA, Patteson M, Smith S, Fox PR, Sanderson K, Woolley R, Szatmari V, Menaut P, Church WM, O’Sullivan ML, Jaudon JP, Kresken JG, Rush J, Barrett KA, Rosenthal SL, Saunders AB, Ljungvall I, Deinert M, Bomassi E, Estrada AH, Fernandez Del Palacio MJ, Moise NS, Abbot JA, Fujii Y, Spier A, Luethy MW, Santilli RA, Uechi M, Tidholm A, Watson P. Longitudinal analysis of quality of life, clinical, radiographic, echocardiographic, and laboratory variables in dogs with preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease receiving pimobendan or placebo: The EPIC Study. J Vet Intern Med 2018;32:72-85. PMID: 29214723

Shelden A, Wesselowski S, Gordon SG, Saunders AB. Transcatheter closure of a small atrial septal defect with an Amplatzer patent foramen ovale occluder in a working dog with cyanosis and exercise intolerance at high altitude. J Vet Cardiol 2017;19:523-529. PMID: 29111287

Gordon SG, Wesselowski SR, Saunders AB. Asymptomatic canine degenerative valve disease: current and future therapies. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2017;47:955-975. PMID: 28669433

Wierzbicki MA, Raines SB, Gordon SG, Criscione JC, Saunders AB, Birch S, Due B, Keller B, Nash LD, Miller MW, Maitland D. An experimental canine patent ductus arteriosus occlusion device based on shape memory polymer foam in a nitinol cage. Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials 2017;75:279-292. PMID: 28759840 61.  Wesselowski S, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Relationship between device size and body weight in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus undergoing Amplatz® canine duct occluder deployment. J Vet Intern Med 2017;17:192-194. PMID: 28782853

Doocy KR*, Nelson DA, Saunders AB. Real-time 3D transesophageal echocardiography guided closure of a complicated patent ductus arteriosus in a dog. J Vet Cardiol 2017;19:287-292. PMID: 28571753

Saunders AB, Keefe L, Birch SA, Wierzbicki MA, Maitland DJ. Perceptions of transcatheter device closure of patent ductus arteriosus in veterinary cardiology and evaluation of a canine model to simulate device placement: A preliminary study. J Vet Cardiol 2017;19:268-275. PMID: 28576477

Winter RL*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Fosgate GT, Suchodolski, Steiner JM. Biologic variability of cardiac troponin I in healthy dogs and dogs with different stages of myxomatous mitral valve disease using standard- and high-sensitivity immunoassays. Vet Clin Path 2017;46:299-307. PMID: 28449360

Boutet B*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Clinical characteristics of adult dogs presenting with patent ductus arteriosus over 5 years of age. J Vet Intern Med 2017;31:685-690. PMID: 28370380

Winter RL*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Buch JS, Miller MW. Biologic variability of N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide in healthy dogs and dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease. J Vet Cardiol 2017;19:124-131. PMID: 28111138

Bascunan A, Mankin KT, Saunders AB, Bright JM, Scharf V, Singh A, O’Sullivan L, Brisson B, Estrada AH, Tou SP, Ruoff C. Patent ductus arteriosus in cats (Felis catus): 50 cases (2000-2015). J Vet Cardiol 2017;19:35-43. PMID: 27919727

Boswood A, Haggstrom J, Gordon SG, Wess G, Stepien RL, Oyama MA, Keene BW, Bonagura J, MacDonald KA, Patteson M, Smith S, Fox PR, Sanderson K, Woolley R, Szatmari V, Menaut P, Church WM, O’Sullivan ML, Jaudon JP, Kresken JG, Rush J, Barrett KA, Rosenthal SL, Saunders AB, Ljungvall I, Deinert M, Bomassi E, Estrada AH, Fernandez Del Palacio MJ, Moise NS, Abbot JA, Fujii Y, Spier A, Luethy MW, Santilli RA, Uechi M, Tidholm A, Watson P. Effect of pimobendan in dogs with preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease and cardiomegaly: The EPIC study - A randomized clinical trial. J Vet Intern Med 2016;30:1765-1779. PMID: 27678080

Vitt JP*, Saunders AB, O’Brien MT, Mansell J, Ajithdoss DK, Hamer SA. Diagnostic features of acute Chagas myocarditis with sudden death in a family of Boxer dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2016;30:12101215. PMID: 27163180

Saunders AB, Birch SA. Three-dimensional modeling of a patent ductus arteriosus in a cat. J Vet Cardiol 2015;17:S349-S353. PMID: 26776592 51.  Raghavan, RK, Saunders AB, Goodin DG, Anderson GA, Harking KR. Geospatial risk factors of canine American trypanosomiasis (Chagas’ Disease) (42 cases: 2000-2012). Vector Born and Zoonotic Dis 2015;15:1-9. PMID: 26393300 50.  Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Heart failure in dogs: 6 practical tips from the cardiologists. Today’s Veterinary Practice 2015;July/Aug:24-31.

Machen MC, Oyama MA, Gordon SG, Rush JE, Achen SE, Stepien RL, Fox PR, Saunders AB, Cunningham SM, Lee PM, Kellihan HB. Multi-center investigation of a point-of-care NT-proBNP ELISA assay to detect moderate to severe occult (pre-clinical) feline heart disease in cats referred for cardiac evaluation. J Vet Cardiol 2014;16:245-255. PMID: 25456274 48.  Gustavsen K*, Saunders AB, Young BD, Winter RL, Hoppes SM. Echocardiographic and radiographic findings in a cohort of healthy adult green iguanas (Iguana iguana). J Vet Cardiol 2014;16:185-196. PMID: 25127666 **Publication designated Editors’ Choice in November 2015

Winter RL*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Whiteman KT, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM. Analytical validation and clinical evaluation of a commercially available high-sensitivity immunoassay for the measurement of troponin I in humans for use in dogs. J Vet Cardiol 2014;16:81-89. PMID: 24834862 46.  Saunders AB. Cutting edge cardiology: Five state-of-the-art developments. Today’s Veterinary Practice 2014;4:14-18.

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Boggess MM, Miller MW. Long-term outcome in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus: 520 cases (1994-2009). J Vet Intern Med 2014;28:401-410. PMID: 24372855

Carlson JA*, Achen SA, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW. Delayed embolization of an Amplatz® canine ductal occluder in a dog. J Vet Cardiol 2013;15:271-276. PMID: 24246437 43.  Saunders AB, Carlson JA, Nelson DA, Gordon SG, Miller MW. Hybrid technique for ventricular septal defect closure in a dog using an Amplatzer® Duct Occluder II. J Vet Cardiol 2013;15:217-224. PMID: 23962683

Hariu CD*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Norby B, Miller MW. Utility of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide for assessing hemodynamic significance of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs undergoing ductal repair. J Vet Cardiol 2013;15:197-204. PMID: 23933478

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Rector MH, DeMaster A, Jackson N, Clubb FJ, Fosgate GT, Miller MW. Bradyarrhythmias and pacemaker therapy in Chagas positive dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2013;27:890894. PMID: 23662590 40.  Saunders AB, Winter RL, Griffin JF, Theiman-Mankin KM, Miller MW.  Surgical management of an aberrant left subclavian artery originating from a left patent ductus arteriosus in a dog with a right aortic arch and abnormal branching. J Vet Cardiol 2013;5:153-159. PMID: 23680133 **Awarded the Journal Cover Image

Cook AK, Mankin KT, Saunders AB, Waugh CE, Cuddy LC, Ellison GW. Palatal erosion and oronasal fistulation following nasopharyngeal stent placement in two dogs. Ir Vet J 2013;66:1-8. PMID: 23635357

Selmic LE, Nelson DA, Saunders AB, Saunders WB, Guedes AG, HP Hobson. Intrapericardial technique for patent ductus arteriosus ligation: surgical description and clinical outcome in 35 dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2013;49:31-40. PMID: 23148137 37.

Nelson DA, Miller MW, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Fossum TW. Minimally invasive transxiphoid approach to the cardiac apex and caudoventral intrathoracic space. Vet Surg 2012;41:915-917. PMID: 23198919

Fries R*, Saunders AB. Use of procainamide for conversion of acute onset atrial fibrillation following pericardiocentesis in a dog. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2012;48:429-433. PMID: 23033466

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Roland RM, R Winter, LT Drourr, SE Achen, C Hariu, M Boggess, MW Miller. Effect of oral administration of pimobendan in cats with heart failure. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012;241:89-94. PMID: 22720992

Saunders AB. The diagnosis and management of age-related veterinary cardiovascular disease. Vet Clin Small Anim 2012;42:655-668. PMID: 22720807

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Hariu CD, Boggess MM, Miller MW. Retrospective review of carvedilol administration in 38 dogs with preclinical chronic valvular heart disease. J Vet Cardiol 2012;14:243-252. PMID: 2236469

Ralph AG, Saunders AB, Hariu CD, Nabity M. Spontaneous echocardiographic contrast in three dogs. J Vet Emerg Crit Care 2011;21:158-165. PMID: 21463443

Saunders AB, Achen SA, Gordon SG, Miller MW. Utility of transesophageal echocardiography for transcatheter occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs: Influence on the decision-making process. J Vet Intern Med 2010;24:1407-1413. PMID: 20738766

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Achen SE, Roland RM, Drourr LT, Hariu CD, Miller MW. Transarterial ductal occlusion using the Amplatz® canine duct occluder in 40 cases. J Vet Cardiol 2010;12:85-92. PMID: 20615776

Singletary G*, Saunders AB, Saunders WB, Steiner JM, Suchodolski JS, Fosgate GT, Hartsfield SM. Cardiac troponin I concentrations following medetomidine sedation in dogs. Vet Anaesth Analg 2010;37:342-346. PMID: 20636565

Winter R*, Hariu C, Saunders AB. ECG of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:961-963. PMID: 20433394 27.  Gordon SG, Nelson D, Achen SE, Miller MW, Roland RM, Saunders AB, Drourr LT. Open heart closure of an atrial septal defect by use of an atrial septal occluder in a dog. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:434-439. PMID: 20151868

Bove C, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Miller MW, Roland RM, Achen SE, Drourr LT, Boggess MM. Outcome of minimally invasive surgical treatment of heartworm caval syndrome in dogs: 42 cases (1999-2007). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:187-192. PMID: 20074009

Snyder K, Saunders AB, Levine J, Clubb F, Achen S. Arrhythmias and elevated troponin I in a dog with steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2010;46:61-65. PMID: 20045839

Bradbury C*, Saunders AB, Heatley JJ, Gregory CR, Wilcox AL, Russell KE. Transvenous heartworm extraction in a ferret with caval syndrome. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2010;46:31-35. PMID: 20045834

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW. Canine atrial fibrillation. Comp Cont Ed Pract Vet 2009;31:E1-E10. PMID: 20180218

Gordon SG, Miller MW, Roland RM, Saunders AB, Achen SE, Drourr LT, Nelson DA. Transcatheter atrial septal defect closure using the AMPLATZER® Atrial Septal Occluder in 13 dogs: Short-term and mid-term outcome. J Vet Intern Med 2009;23:995-1002. PMID: 19678889

Singletary G*, Saunders AB. What’s Your Diagnosis? Dyspnea and arrhythmia in a 12-Year-Old Pug. Vet Forum 2009;26:1-2.

Saunders AB, Hanzlicek A, Stickney M, Martinez EA, Steiner JM, Suchodolski JS, Fosgate G. Effect of anesthesia on serum troponin I and C-reactive protein in healthy dogs. Vet Anaesth Analg 2009; 36:449-456. PMID: 19709049

Saunders AB, Smith BP, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM, Fosgate GT. Cardiac troponin I and C-reactive protein levels prior to and following balloon valvuloplasty in dogs with severe pulmonic stenosis. J Vet Cardiol 2009;11:9-16. PMID: 19473901

Saunders AB, Fabrick C, Achen SA, Miller MW. Coil embolization of a congenital arteriovenous fistula of the saphenous artery in a dog. J Vet Intern Med 2009;23:662-664. PMID: 19422465 17.  Saunders AB. The Next Level: Diagnostic challenges of feline heartworm disease. Clinician’s Brief 2009;7:73-74.

Achen S, Miller MW, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Roland R, Drourr L. Transarterial Ductal Occlusion with the Amplatzer® Vascular Plug in 31 Dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2008;22:1348-1352. PMID: 18798793

Shipley E*, Saunders AB. ECG of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2008; 233:714-715. PMID: 18764703 14.  Achen S*, Saunders AB, Miller MW. ECG of the Month. Left atrial rhythm. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2008;233:44-46. PMID: 18593311

Drourr L*, Saunders AB. ECG of the Month. Supraventricular tachycardia. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2008;232:1807-1809. PMID: 18598148

Achen S*, Saunders AB, Miller MW. ECG of the Month. Rate dependent bundle branch block. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2008;223:684-686. PMID: 18312172

Saunders AB, Martinez EA, Miller MW. Percutaneous extraction of an entrapped tined pacing lead and knotted pulmonary artery catheter in two dogs. J Vet Cardiol 2007;9:119-122. PMID: 18061548 **Awarded the Journal Cover Image

Saunders AB, Miller MW, Gordon SG, Bahr A. Echocardiographic and angiographic comparison of minimal ductal diameter in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus. J Vet Intern Med 2007;21:68-75. PMID: 17338152 9.  Miller MW, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Arsenault WG, Meurs KM, Lehmkuhl LB, Bonagura JD, Fox PR. Angiographic classification of patent ductus arteriosus in the dog. J Vet Cardiol 2006;8:109114. PMID: 19083344

Saunders AB, Miller MW, Gordon SG, et al. Oral amiodarone therapy in dogs with atrial fibrillation. J Vet Intern Med 2006;20:921-926. PMID: 16955817

Gordon SG, Miller MW, Saunders AB. Pimobendan in heart failure therapy- A silver bullet? J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2006;42:90-93. PMID: 16527909

Saunders AB. ECG of the Month. Sick sinus syndrome. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:51-52. PMID: 16013537

Miller MW, Fox PR, Saunders AB. Pathologic and clinical features of infectious endocarditis. J Vet Cardiol 2004;6:35-43. PMID: 19083308

Saunders AB, Miller MW, Gordon SG, Bahr A. Clinical outcome following pulmonary embolization of vascular occlusion coils in 7 dogs with patent ductus arteriosus. J Vet Intern Med 2004;18:663666. PMID: 15515582

Saunders AB, Mawby D, McEntee M. A challenging case: An emaciated cat with abdominal distension. Vet Med 2004;99:776-784.

Fossum TW, Mertens MM, Miller MW, Peacock JM, Saunders A, Gordon S, Pahl G, Makarski LA, Bahr A, Hobson PH. Thoracic duct ligation and pericardectomy for treatment of idiopathic chylothorax. J Vet Intern Med 2004;18:307-310. PMID: 15188816

Saunders AB, Miller MW, Gordon SG. ECG of the Month. Second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;223:1572-1574. PMID: 14664442

 

Book Chapters


Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Chagas disease. In: Cote’s Clinical Vet Advisor, 5th Ed, Submitted 2024.

Saunders AB. Pericardiocentesis. In: Cote’s Clinical Vet Advisor, 5th Ed, Submitted 2024.

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Malcolm E. Systemic Pharmacotherapeutics of the Cardiovascular System. In: The Merck Veterinary Manual. Published online July 2023. Accessed at: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-thecardiovascular-system

Saunders AB. Heartworm Disease in Dogs and Cats. In: Cote E, Ettinger SC, eds. Ettinger’s Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 9th Ed, 2024. 17.  Saunders AB. The lab in heart diseases: biomarkers. Manual Clinico de Cardiologia. Improve International, 2022. (Published in English)

Gordon SG, Saunders AB. Cardiac Biomarkers. Current Veterinary Therapy XVI; Elsevier submitted, 2019. 15.   Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Congenital Shunts. Current Veterinary Therapy XVI; Elsevier submitted, 2019.

Hamer S, Saunders AB, Snowden K, Sykes J. Trypanosomiasis. In: Sykes, ed. Greene’s Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat, 5th Ed; Elsevier; 2022.

Saunders AB. Chagas Disease (American trypanosomiasis). Clinician’s Brief Clinical Monograph, Published July 2021. Updated December 2022 as Plumb’s Pro. Accessed February 2023. https://app.plumbs.com/clinical-brief/1WZYNJiDA0n92IkFxa4C6t

Saunders AB. Patent Ductus Arteriosus. Clinician’s Brief Clinical Monograph, Published July 2021. Updated December 2022 as Plumb’s Pro. Accessed February 2023. https://app.plumbs.com/clinical-brief/1WZYNJiDA0n92IkFxa4C6t

Saunders AB. Chagas Disease (American Trypanosomiasis). In: Tilley LP, Smith FWK, Sleeper MM, Brainard BM, eds. Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult, 7th Ed; Wiley Blackwell; 2021, p. 254.

Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Pericardial Effusion. In: Bruyette D, ed. Clinical Small Animal Internal Medicine, Volume 1; Wiley Blackwell; 2020, p. 275-285.

Saunders AB. The lab in heart diseases: biomarkers. Manual Clinico de Cardiologia. Improve International 2019. p. 208-218. (Published in Spanish)

Saunders AB. Trypanosoma cruzi. In: Lane IF, Stokes J, eds. Small Animal Veterinary Medicine. New York: Decision Support in Medicine, LLC; 2017.  Accessed at: https://www.decisionsupportinmedicine.com

Gordon SG, Saunders AB. Systemic Pharmacotherapeutics of the Cardiovascular System. In: The Merck Veterinary Manual. Published online November 2015.  Accessed at: http://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-ofthe-cardiovascular-system/overview-of-systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-cardiovascularsystem

Saunders AB. Heartworm Extraction. In: Weisse C, Berent A, eds. Veterinary Image-Guided Interventions. Ames, IA: Wiley; 2015. p. 541-546. Miller MW, Gordon SG, Saunders AB. Patent ductus arteriosus. In: Bonagura JD, Twedt DC, eds. Current Veterinary Therapy XV; Elsevier Saunders; 2014. e309-313.

Barr SC, Saunders AB, Sykes J. Trypanosomiasis. In: Sykes J, ed. Canine and Feline Infectious Diseases. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2013. p. 760-770.

Pulmonary Hypertension. In: Gordon SG, Estrada AH, eds. ABCDs of Small Animal Cardiology. Guelph, Ontario, CA: LifeLearn; 2013. p. 334-352. Saunders AB. (Contributing Author).

Saunders AB. Cardiovascular Disorders. In: Schenck PA, ed. Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NAVLE. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2009. p. 165-188.

Saunders AB. Cardiac neoplasia. In: August JR, ed. Consultations in Feline Internal Medicine, 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2009. p. 703-706.

 

Abstracts


Busselman RE, Macias JPF, Salomon J, Zecca IB, Davila E, Saunders AB, Hamer GL, Hamer SA. Texas ranches: a nidus for Trypanosoma cruzi transmission among wildlife, dogs, and triatomines. Society for Vector Ecology Conference, 2024.

Lim S*, Collins S, Hamer SA, Tarleton RL, Saunders AB. Chagas disease in dogs: positive clinical outcomes with modified dosing regimens of benznidazole in a litter of dogs at risk for Trypanosoma cruzi. Texas Regional CTSA Consortium (TRCC), UT Southwestern Medical Center, summer meeting poster session, 2024.

Saunders AB, Zelachowski K, Wesselowski S, Lim S, Gordon SG. Patent ductus arteriosus characterized by transesophageal echocardiography in dogs. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, Oral, 2024.

Saunders AB, Lim S, Gordon SG, Miner V, Henderson M, Zelachowski K, Eisner S, Hamer SA, White BE, Hawkins CW, Tarleton R. Comparison of serologic tests for detecting Trypanosoma cruzi infection in dogs. ACVIM Forum Research report, Oral, 2024.

Zelachowski K*, Collins S, Henderson M, Auckland L, Hamer SA, Jeffery ND, Saunders AB. Cardiac abnormalities using a simplified diagnostic evaluation in dogs at risk for Trypanosoma cruzi infection. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, Poster, 2024.

Lim S*. Wesselowski S, Kadotani S, Winter RL, Saunders AB. Clinical and Imaging Characteristics of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Standard Poodles and Their Cross-breeds. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, Poster, 2024.

Lim S*, Collins S, Hamer SA, Tarleton RL, Saunders AB. Chagas disease in dogs: positive clinical outcomes with modified dosing regimens of benznidazole in a litter of dogs at risk for Trypanosoma cruzi. Diseases in Nature Transmissible to Man Conference, 2024.

Lim S*, Wesselowski S, Kadotani S, Winter RL, Saunders AB. Clinical and imaging characteristics of patent ductus arteriosus in standard poodles and their cross-breeds. SVMBS Research Trainee Symposium, TAMU, 2024.

Ashbaugh O, Busselman R, Saunders A, Hamer S. Characterizing triatomine blood-meal hosts and the effects of insecticides in kennel environments, Texas, USA. Veterinary Medical Scientist Research Training Program, TAMU, 2023.

Busselman RE. Curtis-Robles RC, Meyers AC, Zecca IB, Auckland LD, Hodo CH, Christopher D, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Abundant triatomines in Texas dog kennel environments: Collections by a scent detection dog, infection with Trypanosoma cruzi, and blood feeding hosts. Society of Vector Ecology Conference, 2023.

Weisse C, Asano K, Ishigaki K, Lipscomb V, Zwingenberger AL, Carroll KA, Vilaplana Grosso FR, Stock E, Buote N, Aly A, Murgia D, Arai S, zur Linden A, Gordon J, Monassero M, Schwarz T, Wallace ML, Graham J, Hardie R, Chang Y, Robbins M, Bismuth C, Karnia J, Sterman A, Saunders A, Montinaro V, Guarnera I, McLauchlan G, Cern aP, Maurin M, Aisa J. CT vascular anatomy of feline congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts: An SVSTS and VIRIES multi-institutional retrospective study in 228 cats. VIRIES Conference, 2023.

Sykes KT, Wesselowski S, Saunders AB. Echocardiographic findings and prevalence of heart murmurs in clinically healthy Borzoi dogs. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, Poster, 2023.

Wesselowski S, Janacek B, Sykes KT, Saunders AB. Electrocardiographic findings in clinical healthy Borzoi dogs with a normal echocardiogram. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2023.

Rodriguez CA, Busselman RE, Saunders AB, Tarleton R, Hamer SA. Validation of a bead-based multiplex assay for detection of Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies in canines. American Association of Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Diagnosticians Conference, 2022.

Busselman RE. Meyers AC, Zecca IB, Castro AH, Hodo CH, Christopher D, Curtis-Robles RC, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Triatomines in kennel environments: Collections by a trained dog, infection with Trypanosoma cruzi, and blood feeding hosts. American Society of Pathologists Conference, 2022.

Wesselowski S, Cusack K, Saunders AB, Jeffery N. Pre-procedural femoral vessel ultrasound in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus: diameter, image quality and outcome. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2021 (oral).

Barnett BG, Gordon S, Wesselowski S, Saunders A, Fries R, Sykes KT, Vitt J, Boutet B, Kadotani S, Cusack K, Janacek B, Stack J, Hubert S, Stoner C. Differentiating preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease stages using electrocardiography in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2021 (eposter).

Stoner CM*, Saunders AB. Prospective evaluation of probes for transeosphageal echocardiography in small dogs: imaging capabilities, image quality, usability. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2021 (eposter).

Stoner CM*, Saunders AB, Heseltine JC, Cook AK, Lidbury JA. Prospective evaluation of complications associated with transesophageal echocardiography in dogs with congenital heart disease. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2021 (eposter).

Gavic E, Achen S, Fox PR, Benjamin EJ, Goodwin J, Gunasekaran T, Schober K, Tjostheim S, Vickers J, Ward J, Hamer S, Saunders AB. Chagas disease in 12 dogs translocated from Texas. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2021 (eposter).

Saunders AB, Wesselowski S, Malcolm E, Sykes KT, Collins S, Busselman RE, Hamer SA, Steiner JM. Prospective cardiac evaluation in 50 asymptomatic dogs naturally-infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2021 (eposter).

Wesselowski S, Gordon S, Saunders AB, Fries RC, Sykes KT, Vitt JP, Boutet BG, Kadotani S, Cusack K, Janacek BW, Stack JP, Hubert S, Stoner CM. Correlation between radiographic vertebral heart size and vertebral left atrial size and echocardiographic measurements of left heart size in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease. ECVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2020 (oral).

Sykes KT, Gordon SG, Craig J, Vitt J, Rishniw M, Wesselowski S, Meddaugh N, Saunders AB, Fries R, Boutet B, Kadotani S, Stack J. Accuracy of deep learning enabled software to measure vertebral heart size in dogs. ECVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2020 (oral).

Cusack K, Wesselowski S, Saunders A, Jeffery N. Ultrasonographic assessment of the femoral artery and vein in dogs: relationship to age, body size, sex and conformational measurements. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2020 (eposter).

Hubert S*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Short-term evaluation of clinical, radiographic, and echocardiographic effects of patent ductus arteriosus closure in dogs. ACVIM Forum Research Abstract, 2020 (eposter).

Lynn C*, Saunders AB. Electrocardiographic evaluation of dogs infected with Trypanosoma cruzi using an electronic measurement program. TAMU CVM Trainee Research Symposium, 2020 (poster).

Hubert S*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. A comprehensive thoracic radiograph assessment in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus in comparison with clinical and echocardiographic findings. TAMU CVM Trainee Research Symposium, 2020 (poster).

Meddaugh N, Wesselowski S, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Matthews DJ, Cusack, Janacek B. Utility of thoracic radiographs to predict an echocardiographic dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype in the dog. TAMU CVM Trainee Research Symposium, 2020 (poster).

Dowd R, Meyers AC, Busselman R, Henderson M, Saunders AB, Hamer SA. Echocardiography and measurements of fitness in Trypanosoma cruzi seropositive and seronegative working dogs. Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Student Summer Research Program, TAMU, 2019.

Meddaugh N, Wesselowski S, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Matthews DJ, Cusack, Janacek B. Utility of thoracic radiographs to predict an echocardiographic dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype in the dog. Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Student Summer Research Program, TAMU, 2019.

Matthews DJ*, Saunders AB, Fries RC, Hamer SA, Jeffery N. Comprehensive cardiac evaluation including magnetic resonance imaging in naturally-infected dogs seropositive for Chagas disease. J Vet Intern Med 2019;33:2397.

Wesselowski S, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Anatomy, Baseline Characteristics and Procedural Outcome in German Shepherd Dogs with Patent Ductus Arteriosus. J Vet Intern Med 2017;30;27.

Fries R, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Saunders AB, Hariu C. Precision and Repeatability of Transthoracic Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Echocardiography in Normal Conscious Dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2017;30;27.

Boutet B, Gordon SG, Navas C, Saunders AB, M. Transvenous Echocardiography in Conscious Sedated Horses. J Vet Intern Med 2017;30;27.

Meyers A, Purnell J, Ellis M, Auckland L, Meinders M, Sanders J, Saunders A, Hamer S. Nationwide prevalence of the Chagas disease parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi, in government working dogs and associated cardiac health abnormalities. Abstract, International Conference on Emerging Infectious Disease, 2018.

Meyers A, Purnell J, Ellis M, Auckland L, Meinders M, Saunders A, Hamer S. Electrocardiographic abnormalities associated with Trypanosoma cruzi infection in government working dogs nationwide. Poster presentation, CVM Graduate Student and Postdoc Research Symposium, 2018.

Meyers A, Purnell J, Ellis M, Auckland L, Meinders M, Saunders A, Hamer S. Trypanosoma cruzi infection and cardiac outcomes in government working dogs across the United States. American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Baltimore, Maryland, November 2017.

Ellis M, Purnell J, Meyers A, Meinders M, Saunders A, Hamer SA. ECG abnormalities in Trypanosoma cruzi seropositive and negative working dogs across the US-Mexico border.  Ellis M: VMSRTP Fellow from Colorado State University, Presented at TAMU 2017.

Doocy KD, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Comparative multidimensional imaging of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2017;30;27.

Parambeth JC, Vitt J, Suchodolski JS, Lidbury J, Saunders AB, Steiner JM. Fecal Α1-Proteinase inhibitor concentrations in dogs with cardiac disease. J Vet Intern Med 2016;29:1142.

Boutet B, Saunders AB, Gordon SG. Clinical characteristics in 35 dogs over 5 years of age diagnosed with patent ductus arteriosus. J Vet Intern Med 2015;29:1142.

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Fries RF, Rishniw M, Miller MW. Complications Associated with Transcatheter PDA Occlusion: Results of an ACVIM Cardiology Survey. J Vet Intern Med 2014;28:1353.

Winter R*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Fosgate GT, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM. Biologic variability of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and cardiac troponin I in healthy dogs and dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease. J Vet Intern Med 2014;28:1000-1001. **2014 ACVIM Resident Research Award Winner

Winter R*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Whiteman KT, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM. Measurement of cardiac troponin I in healthy dogs and dogs with degenerative mitral valve disease, congenital heart disease, or arrhythmias using a high-sensitivity immunoassay. J Vet Intern Med 2013;27:646.

Winter R*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Whiteman KT, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM. Analytical validation of a commercially available high-sensitivity immunoassay for the measurement of serum cardiac troponin I concentrations in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2013;27:643.

Carlson J*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Boggess MM, Suchodolski JS, Steiner JM. Serial evaluation of biomarkers in advanced canine chronic degenerative valvular disease. J Vet Intern Med 2013;27:629

Gustavesen KA, Saunders AB, Winter RL, Hoppes SM. Electrocardiographic and echocardiographic analysis in the green Iguana (Iguana iguana). Assoc Amer Zoo Vets 2012 (poster). 29. Gustavesen KA, Saunders AB, Winter RL, Hoppes SM. Electrocardiographic and echocardiographic analysis in the green Iguana (Iguana iguana). Assoc Amer Avian Vets 2012 (oral).

Fries RC, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Saunders AB, Hariu CD, Bogess M, Lennos M, Fossum TW. Comparison of transthoracic two-dimensional echocardiography, three-dimensional echocardiography, computed tomography angiography, and gated magnetic resonance imaging in normal canine hearts. J Vet Intern Med 2012;26.710.

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Hariu CD, Fries RC, Carlson JC, Winter R, Miller MW. Long-term evaluation of cardiac size and function in 71 dogs following patent ductus arteriosus closure. J Vet Intern Med 2012;26:712-713.

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Miller MW, Achen SE, Hariu CD, Fires R, Carlson J. Performance comparison of a commercially available pocket echocardiography device and the Vivd E9 for 2d and Color imaging in dogs when performed by experienced examiners. ACVIM 2011 Proceedings p164.

Hariu CD*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW. Utility of plasma NT-proBNP for assessing hemodynamic significance of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs prior to and following transcatheter ductal occlusion.  J Vet Intern Med 2011;25:656.

Selmic L, Nelson D, Saunders AB, Guedes A, Hobson HP, Saunders WB. An electrosurgery assisted intrapericardial technique for ligation of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs. Proceedings Am Coll Vet Surg Symposium 2010:E53.

Rector M*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Demaster A. Miller MW. Bradydysrhythmias requiring pacemaker implantation in Chagas positive dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2010;24:733.

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Roland RM, R Winter, LT Drourr, SE Achen, C Hariu, M Boggess and MW Miller. The use of pimobendan in the treatment of heart failure in 28 cats. Proceedings Am Coll Vet Intern Med 2010:158.

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, Achen SE, Roland RM, Drourr L, Hariu C, Oyama M. NTproBNP in canine congenital heart disease. J Vet Intern Med 2009;23:687.

Achen SE, Gordon SG, Roland RM, Saunders AB, Boggess MM, Miller MW.  Serial evaluation of NTproBNP in dogs with CHF predicts clinical score and the presence or absence of radiographic pulmonary edema. J Vet Intern Med 2009;23:686.

Gordon SG, Bové C, Saunders AB, Roland RM, Achen SE, Drourr LT, Boggess MM, Miller MW. Canine heartworm caval syndrome: outcome in 42 dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2009;23:706.

Saunders AB, Achen SA, Miller MW, Gordon SG. Prospective evaluation of transesophageal echocardiography for patent ductus arteriosus occlusion in dogs. Cardiology specialty symposium pre-forum proceedings ACVIM 2009.

Roland RM, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Drourr LT, Achen SE and Miller MW. The use of pimobendan in feline heart failure secondary to spontaneous heart diseases. ECVIM 2008. J Vet Intern Med 2008;22:1469.

Achen SE, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Roland RM, Drourr LT, Miller MW. Transarterial ductal occlusion using the Amplatz® canine duct occluder in 23 cases. J Vet Intern Med 2008;22:762.

Drourr LT, Gordon SG, Roland RM, Saunders AB, Achen SE, Miller MW. NT-proBNP concentration in preclinical (ISACHC 1A & 1B) chronic degenerative atrioventricular valve disease. J Vet Intern Med 2008;22:759.

Gordon SG, Miller MW, Roland RM, Saunders AB, Drourr LT, Achen SE. Percutaneous atrial septal defect occlusion using the AmplatzerÒ septal occluder in 10 dogs: short and midterm outcome. J Vet Intern Med 2008;22:762.

Shipley EA*, Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Roland RM, Drourr LT, Achen SE, Miller MW. NT-proBNP in dogs with atrial fibrillation. J Vet Intern Med 2008;22:758-759.

Hanzlicek AS*, Saunders AB, Martinez EA, Stickney MJ, Steiner JS, Fosgate GT. Effect of anesthesia on cardiac troponin I and C-reactive protein concentrations in healthy dogs. IVECCS 2007; Vet Anaesth Analg 2007.

Achen SE, Miller MW, Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Roland R and Drourr L. Transarterial Ductal Occlusion Using the Amplatzer® Vascular Plug in 28 Cases. J Vet Intern Med 2007.

Hess JC, Martinez EA, Saunders AB, Shisk-Saling T, Phillips RA. Measuring Cardiac Output in seven Healthy and Conscious bearded dragons (Pogona Vitticeps) using a noninvasive Cardiac output measuring device. Vet Anaesth Analg 2006.

Hess JC, Martinez EA, Saunders AB, Shisk-Saling T, Phillips RA.Measuring Cardiac Output in six Healthy and Conscious green iguanas (iguana iguana) using a noninvasive Cardiac output device. Vet Anaesth Analg 2006.

Martinez EA, Hess JC, Saunders AB, Miller MW. Comparison of two noninvasive methods for determination of cardiac output in neonatal foals – A pilot study. IVECCS 2006.

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, Fossum TW, Nelson DA, Meurs KM, Roland RM, Miller MW. Atrial septal defects in an extended family of standard poodles. J Vet Intern Med 2006;20:730.

Roland RM, Gordon SG, Bahr A, Miller MW, Saunders AB. Acute cardiovascular effects of pimobendan in dogs with stable congestive heart failure due to chronic degenerative atrioventricular valve disease. J Vet Intern Med 2006;20:731.

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW, et al. Serum procollagen type III aminoterminal peptide, an in vivo biomarker of fibrosis, in normal dogs and dogs with spontaneous cardiovascular disease. J Vet Intern Med 2005;19:455-456.

Gordon SG, Saunders AB, McMichael MA, et al. Urine isoprostane concentrations, an in vivo biomarker of oxidative stress, in normal dogs and dogs with asymptomatic chronic degenerative valve disease in the presence and absence of chronic carvedilol therapy. J Vet Intern Med 2005;19:455.

Saunders AB, Gordon SG, Miller MW. Echocardiographic evaluation of diastolic function in normal, mature small breed dogs and dogs with asymptomatic, spontaneous chronic degenerative valvular disease. J Vet Intern Med 2005;19:416-417.

Saunders AB, Miller MW, Gordon SG, et al. Comparison of echocardiographic and angiographic estimates of minimal ductal diameter in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus. J Vet Intern Med 2004;18:406-407.

Saunders AB, Bartges JW, Blanco L et al. Evaluation of blood agar plates and incandescent lighting for aerobic bacterial urine cultures. J Vet Intern Med 2002;16:379.