The British Equine Veterinary Association has published new resources to help vets provide appropriate treatment to any UK equid when an owner or keeper cannot be identified. 

The new online resources have been compiled by BEVA in collaboration with the RSPCA, World Horse Welfare, the SSPCA and the National Equine Crime Group, together with national Police and Local Authority representatives. 

BEVA President Imogen Burrows said: “It can be an intimidating process when visiting an equid without an owner, but our new resources aim to address the potential stress factor and make the rules around the provision of care very clearcut.

“We have produced all the documents the attending vet should need, no matter their location or circumstances. 

"Most importantly, if they are attending alone, they will know how to access the right help at the right time, secure in the knowledge that they are following appropriate, validated procedures.”

The resources include a decision tree for quick checking correct procedures, an overview of stakeholder roles and responsibilities, a ‘what if’ section for troubleshooting and an essential contacts registry.

There are also examination and treatment worksheets, and euthanasia certification forms.

Imogen added: “We have put significant thought and effort into producing these new resources, especially from an ambulatory veterinary perspective.

“It should make all the difference for vets, knowing that they have the all the information they need, to hand, In the unlikely event of a callout to an equid of unknown ownership.”

https://www.beva.org.uk/Resources/Clinical-resources/Welfare-toolkit/Managing-equids-of-unknown-ownership  

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