According to the Animal Protection Agency, the rule had been included in the draft version of the new Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) Regulations 2018, which had been compiled with input from a number of stakeholders who agreed, based on scientific evidence, that snakes should be kept in enclosures at least as long as their body length.
However, the APA says that the rule was removed by Defra just days before publication, on the basis of one protest from a veterinary clinic closely associated with the pet trade and following what the APA describes as 'somewhat pally' correspondence between Defra officials and the representative of the veterinary clinic that had protested.
As a result, the ad-hoc group of biologists and vets, including Dr Phillip Arena (a biologist from Murdoch University), Rachel Grant (herpetologist from Northampton University), Angelo Lambiris (herpetologist), Catrina Steedman (reptile biologist), Clifford Warwick (reptile biologist) and veterinary surgeons Martin Whitehead MRCVS, Fredric Frye DVM, Mike Jessop MRCVS and Anthony Pilny DVM, have written to Defra, arguing that the scientific evidence significantly contradicts the veterinary clinic's protest, and that for their health and welfare snakes need to be provided with enclosures at least as long as they are.
Elaine Toland, biologist and Director of the APA, says this latest skirmish is symptomatic of a wider malaise: that whenever the APA meets with government officials, it finds itself up against a small group of pro-trade veterinary surgeons that tries to block any attempt to advance welfare for captive reptiles if it compromises the profitability of the trade.
Elaine said: "It's very frustrating, because the views of the vocal minority of pro-trade vets seem to us to be completely unrepresentative of exotic vets in general, who we've always found to be very supportive of our work and deeply frustrated by the welfare issues surrounding reptiles.
On 23rd October, Dr Hannah Capon MA Vet MB MRCVS will present 'OA management: more than just drugs', in which she will consider how best to manage canine osteoarthritis in first opinion practice and offer practical tips on how veterinary surgeons and nurses can help owners manage the condition better.
On 6th November, Dr Zoe Belshaw MA Vet MB PhD Cert SAM Dip ECVIM-CA AFHEA MRCVS (pictured right) will present 'Increasing compliance in OA treatment', during which she will discuss some of the reasons behind poor compliance and strategies to improve compliance by owners of dogs with osteoarthritis.
Forte Healthcare’s head of technical services and marketing, Dr Lucy Chadwick said: "We are delighted to have two well-recognised experts to deliver these webinars and we’ve made sure that they will be as equally relevant for vet nurses as they are for practising vets.
"For anyone who cannot join the live screenings, the webinars will be made available to watch on demand for a limited time after they are shown."
To register for the webinars, visit: www.fortehealthcare.com/oa-2018
The range includes:
Fluodrop (the first fluorescein product specifically designed for veterinary use)
Ocryl - an ocular and periocular cleanser that can also be used to reduce and prevent unsightly tear staining
Ocular lubricants (carbomer and hyaluronic acid based)
Clerapliq – a novel molecule to the UK veterinary market that is used to help restore and regenerate the corneal extracellular matrix
The products will be supported with a selection of materials to help vets, nurses and pet owners in the maintenance of corneal health, including diagnosis and treatment guidelines, anatomical guides, posters and client educational and treatment aids to help with compliance.
William Peel MRCVS, product manager at TVM-UK said: "Our Corneal Focus Range is an exciting way to expand on our product portfolio following the successful introduction of our ‘Anti-tox’ range.
"With ‘Anti-tox’ we successfully managed to make vets and nurses lives easier by providing education and materials alongside a great range of products to help when dealing with poisoning cases in practice. We also attempted to make clients more aware of the dangers of poisoning in pets.
"We hope to emulate this approach and success with our Corneal Focus Range – by developing a wealth of materials for vets, nurses and clients to aid them in managing and understanding ophthalmology cases – and by providing quality products."
TVM UK will be showcasing its new products and support services at the London Vet Show (stand P40) this November.
For more information, visit: http://www.tvm-uk.com/
The machine-washable wound/bandage protector is available in denim blue, in five different sizes.
Pads, sold separately, can be added to pockets in the Head Cover for additional protection. Alternatively, the pockets can be used to hold a dog’s ear to prevent wound fluids and ointments from sticking to the fur.
The company has also announced the launch of the new Medical PetS Boot, a waterproof paw protector which, unlike the alternatives, comes in a variety of sizes and is firmly held in place with both velcro straps and a drawstring.
For more information, visit: https://www.jakmarketing.co.uk or ring 01347 878697
The company behind the research shall remain nameless because whilst it has a great PR agency which produces some interesting press releases, the tight so-and-sos have never spent so much as a single bean supporting the VetSurgeon.org community with any advertising. And whilst we always publish stories that are of genuine importance and even the odd piece of PR propaganda-puff, we have to draw the line somewhere.
Where was I? Oh yes. 57 of the 100 veterinary surgeons (64 practice owners, 7 senior partners and 29 employed vets) surveyed by the unnamed company said they think their practice could do more to prevent the spread of infection.
79 said they are concerned that they are not consistently following correct hygiene protocols.
54 said they need more staff training and 53 said they want to be able to give staff more time between appointments to allow longer for more thorough disinfection of equipment and surfaces.
The company says its research suggests vets may need to do more to educate pet owners on the threats of poor hygiene and the spread of infection. Only 14 of the 100 veterinary surgeons surveyed believe that pet owners know enough about this, and pets not being vaccinated against disease was the second most common frustration vets felt about owners’ standards of pet care.
An unnamed spokesperson from the unnamed company said: "A busy vets practice is naturally focused on the care and health of its animal patients, however, hygiene standards are a vital aspect of this. With a full schedule of appointments, it can be difficult to effectively ensure all infection control procedures are covered. As a result, it’s easy for vets to overlook the important role laundry has to play as part of this process."
Incidentally, if you'd like to buy laundry equipment from a company that does support VetSurgeon.org, we recommend Eickemeyer.
The company says this means that using Solacyl as an alternative to antibiotics could reduce overall antibiotic use by 4.4 tonnes a year.
The research was carried out by dairy veterinary consultant Owen Atkinson BVSc DHCP MRCVS, an RCVS recognised specialist in cattle health and production, at three English calf rearing units between November 2017 and May 2018. It involved four groups of beef calves from different dairy farms.
The 258 calves were given Solacyl (sodium salicylate) in-feed on the five days immediately upon arrival at the units (a high-risk period for animals to contract bovine respiratory disease).
According to Dechra, the use of Solacyl resulted in a reduction in antibiotic use of between 16% and 73% (based on doses), depending on the farm. Across all groups, the reduction was 43%.
Dechra says that neither the health of the calves nor the profitability of the rearing operations were compromised.
Owen Atkinson said: "I was involved in analysing the data and the data showed that there was no significant difference in growth rates or in mortality or in days to reach a target weight in the calves that had Solacyl, compared to previous batches of calves that had followed a prophylactic antibiotic protocol.
"I think this is an ideal protocol for those farmers who are competent, who are able to spot early pneumonia symptoms and are prepared to perhaps treat a slightly higher proportion of calves than they would otherwise have treated. They can now do that with higher confidence that their results should be as good as if they had used prophylactic antibiotics."
Dechra Farm Animal Veterinary Adviser Alana McGlade BVmedsci (hons) BVM BVS MRCVS added: "Sodium salicylate has the same fever-controlling, pain-managing and inflammation-reducing benefits in livestock as aspirin can have in humans.
"It can be administered conveniently to groups of animals, which means it can be given prior to known stress points in animals’ lives. This can be continued through and after those events, providing a welfare benefit and reducing the risk of a loss of appetite and its resulting effects.
"Solacyl can be administered without the supervision of a vet and that makes it a cost-effective and practical solution for farmers that can lead to a notable reduction in routine antibiotic use whilst protecting the welfare of a herd."
Dechra has now published a white paper which you can download here: "Enhancing welfare and combating antimicrobial resistance while maintaining productivity on calf units".
The results of the research will be presented at the BCVA Congress in October 2018.
The one-day event, called VetQuest, will allow prospective students to spend the day being mentored by a current student whilst getting involved in interactive sessions, such as large animal skills, clinical skills and veterinary public health.
Participants will learn about the opportunities available to those interested in pursuing a veterinary career, have a tour of the school and attend talks on vet admissions and work experience.
Dr Louisa Slingsby, Teaching Fellow and Faculty Admissions and Recruitment Officer at the Bristol Vet School, said: "VetQuest allows those who are interested in a career in the veterinary professions to come along for a day to find out more about the roles of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.
"They will also have the opportunity to learn what to think about when choosing and applying for courses and how to give themselves the best possible chance to make an informed decision about if vet medicine is the career for them."
There will also be an optional session for parents and carers to help them navigate the challenges of applying to study to be a vet or vet nurse. The morning starts with a tour and then a talk and a Q&A session and finishes around lunchtime.
The cost of the one-day event is £50 and there are a limited number of subsidised places at £10. Lunch is included in the registration fee. To book visit https://www.bristol.ac.uk/vetscience/events/2018/vetquest-2018.html.
The event is primarily aimed at years 11 and 12, although anyone is welcome to attend.
For further information about VetQuest, email: svs-vetquest@bristol.ac.uk or tel: +44 (0)117 928 9280.
The College says that until now, veterinary research has largely ignored lipomas because they are rarely referred for specialist treatment.
For the study, the RVC identified 2765 lipoma cases from a population of 384,284 dogs in its VetCompass Programme (which collects anonymised clinical data on dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK) in 2013.
The study found that 1 in 50 dogs are affected by lipomas each year and that Springer Spaniels, Dobermann Pinschers, Weimaraners and Labrador Retrievers are the most susceptible to lipomas (5-8% prevalence).
The study also found:
At least one lipoma was diagnosed in 1.94% of dogs during the single year of the study.
Individual dogs with an adult bodyweight that was equal or higher than their breed/sex average had 1.96 times the odds of lipoma.
As dogs age, their odds of getting lipoma increase. Dogs aged between 9-12 years were over 17 times more likely to be diagnosed with lipoma compared to dogs aged 3-6 years old.
Neutered dogs had higher risk.
Insured dogs had 1.78 times the odds of diagnosis.
Purebred dogs had 1.16 times the odds compared with crossbred dogs.
Dr Lynda Rutherford, Clinician and Lecturer in Small Animal Surgery at the RVC, said: "This paper has supported the theory that lipomas are more common in older, overweight dogs.
"This information is useful as it can be discussed with owners and used as another reason to keep pet dog’s weight under control. It also provides a useful insight into how common lipomas are within the UK dog population."
Reference
O'NEILL, D. G., CORAH, C. H., CHURCH, D. B., BRODBELT, D. C. & RUTHERFORD, L. 2018. Lipoma in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK: prevalence and breed associations. Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, 5, 9. https://cgejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40575-018-0065-9
The company says it recognises how frustrating it can be for veterinary surgeons if the owner doesn't recognise that their dog has a painful condition. This can be compounded by short consult times, leaving vets unable to fully communicate the implications and treatment options for the disease.
In the video, Zoe encourages vets to tailor their language to each case, in particular, using the language dog owners will use.
While undertaking her research Zoe noticed that many owners do not talk about OA in the same way that vets might; instead of referring to lameness or pain, many owners will refer to the actual physical signs of OA such as stiffness or communicate that their dog is slowing down.
Zoe has also warned that not all owners are convinced by visual demonstrations such as flexing and extending the dogs joints. Instead, she suggests encouraging the owner to get hands-on.
Zoe said: "Point out the visual changes suggestive of osteoarthritis that you can see, such as muscle loss, scuffed nails, and enlarged joints. And encourage them to have a look and a feel, comparing affected and unaffected joints. Hopefully, the owner may be more receptive to the conversation now they associate it with a symptom they can recognise."
Zoe says she also finds that many owners of older dogs often misinterpret the signs of OA as 'just old age' and may not be aware that the condition can be managed effectively with medication, the right exercise, diet and by making modifications in the home.
Elanco has also produced an OA management template which enables both the vet and the owner to create a tailored plan. It provides the owner with information to take away with them about how to modify their home, written in collaboration with Founder of Canine Arthritis Management, Hannah Capon.
Lastly, Zoe recommends a whole practice approach to becoming experts on OA, veterinary nurses in particular. She said: "Vet nurses often have great ideas about how to explain the condition in a way that owners understand. Better owner understanding of OA should lead to better adherence to treatment plans and ultimately better clinical outcomes."
To watch the video, click here.
To access the suite of assets Elanco has created for Onsior (which includes the management plan, social media posts for the practice, and infographic to help owners to spot the signs of OA) visit: www.myelanco.co.uk
The UK has now seen a total of 169 confirmed cases of Alabama Rot across 38 counties, since 2012. Six cases were confirmed in 2012, climbing to 40 in 2017 and 46 so far in 2018.
The new research, which was carried out in conjunction with the Royal Veterinary College, found that almost 95% of confirmed cases of Alabama Rot have occurred between November and May, with the highest number of cases being reported in February.
It also found most of the cases have been confirmed in western and southern parts of England, with the highest number found in West Sussex, Dorset, southern Hampshire, Greater Manchester and Monmouthshire. Far fewer cases have been reported from the eastern half of the country and East Anglia in particular.
David Walker, Head of medicine at Anderson Moores and co-author of the research, said: "This research, which was funded by the New Forest Dog Owners Group and the charity Alabama Rot Research Fund, was designed to look for geographical patterns, as well as environmental and climatic risk factors.
"A distinct seasonal pattern is suggested, with the vast majority of cases occurring between November and March, and limited cases over the summer months – just 6.5% of cases have been confirmed from June to October.
"In the scientific world a lot of research is not earth-shattering, but it all builds together and little by little we make progress.
"This information is good in terms of how we manage the next stage of research, however we need to be careful and not jump to any conclusions at this point".
Researchers say the disease has been reported in a wide range of breeds (35 in total) but, due to the small number of cases, it is not yet possible to say with any certainty whether a specific breed has an inherently increased or decreased risk of the disease. Any patterns may simply be the result of varying breed populations in different parts of the country.
Dr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, has been supporting research on the condition for a number of years. He said: "Since we held the first Alabama Rot conference in May 2017, vets and relevant professionals have been working hard to understand more about the condition.
"We know how the disease presents and how it affects dogs internally, and this research adds some interesting information that may help to increase vets’ index of the suspicion for the disease.
"The information on climate and ground type will help us further explore possible triggers for the disease, but at the moment we can’t say if any breeds are more likely to develop the disease.
"The first sign of the disease that is normally seen is a skin sore or lesion that isn’t caused by a known injury. Most commonly these sores are found on the lower half of the leg and appear as a distinct swelling, a patch of red skin or are open and ulcer-like.
"With 46 cases in 2018 already, it is understandably very worrying for dog owners, but we think the increase in cases is partially due to an increased awareness of the disease.
"However, this disease is still very rare, so we’re advising dog owners to remain calm but vigilant, and seek advice from their local vet if their dog develops unexplained skin lesions.
"While this research may be a stepping stone to finding the cause of Alabama Rot, there is currently no known way to prevent a dog from contracting the disease."
*also clinically known as
This year the College is seeking nominations for six awards:
The Queen’s Medal: the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a veterinary surgeon for a highly distinguished career with sustained and outstanding achievements throughout.
The Veterinary Nursing Golden Jubilee Award: this award is aimed at veterinary nurses who have had a sustained and distinguished career, who can demonstrate a leadership role within the profession and who can act as an ambassador for the value of veterinary nurses and their work.
RCVS International Award: this award is for vets, vet nurses or laypeople who work internationally, from either within or outside the UK, in making an outstanding contribution to, for example, raising veterinary standards, veterinary education and improving animal health and welfare.
RCVS Impact Award: this award is for vets or vet nurses who have recently, or are currently, undertaking a project, initiative or similar that has a significant impact on the profession at large, animal health or welfare, or public health. Such impact could have been made through any field of veterinary endeavour, including clinical practice, research, education or veterinary politics.
RCVS Inspiration Award: this award is for vets or vet nurses at any stage of their career who have demonstrated the ability to inspire and enthuse others consistently throughout. It is open to those who have inspired and motivated individuals anywhere within the profession and recognises those who have gone ‘above and beyond’ what may normally be expected from a professional colleague.
Honorary Associateship: this honour is conferred to a small number of laypeople each year, in recognition of their special contribution to the veterinary sphere. It recognises the full range of individuals who contribute to the veterinary sphere including scientists, lecturers, journalists, charity-workers, farriers, farmers and those involved in the commercial field.
For this year’s honours and awards nomination period, the College has produced a video using footage from Royal College Day 2018, featuring interviews with those who were recognised with RCVS honours and awards on the day.
The video is available to view at www.rcvs.org.uk/honours where you can also download further information and guidance about the criteria for nominators and nominees for the awards, as well as how to make nomination.
Dr Niall Connell, RCVS Junior Vice-President, is taking the lead in promoting the awards this year. He said: "Throughout my time in the veterinary profession, and particularly since joining RCVS Council, I have met so many veterinary nurses and veterinary surgeons who are truly inspiring individuals.
"The RCVS honours and awards scheme is a perfect opportunity to celebrate some of the individuals that have done or are doing something really special – whether that’s by inspiring their colleagues and peers or doing things that benefit animal health and welfare or society at large.
"Across all six awards there really is something for everyone – vets and veterinary nurses at all stages of their careers as well as laypeople are all up for recognition and so I’d strongly encourage everyone to think about someone they know who deserves recognition and get in touch.”
The deadline for nominations is Friday 18 January 2019.
For an informal talk about the awards and how to make a nomination you can contact Peris Dean, Executive Secretary, on p.dean@rcvs.org.uk or 020 7202 0761.
Protexin says Pro-Kolin Advanced contains beneficial micro-organisms, several prebiotic sources, an optimal level of a dual-source binding agent and soothing fibres to support gastrointestinal function.
The company also says that in a study involving 148 dogs, Pro-Kolin Advanced significantly improved clinical outcome compared to a placebo1.
Protexin Veterinary Director, James Kyffin, said: "Pro-Kolin Advanced represents an exciting development for Protexin Veterinary and fits in perfectly with our ethos to produce innovative, research-based products of the highest quality for pets.
"It is the first product of its kind to be supported by a randomised, controlled clinical trial that was undertaken in first opinion veterinary practices across the UK and Ireland.
"Not only are we pleased to be able to offer veterinary surgeons with an evidence-based option for the management of acute gastrointestinal disturbances, but also a very palatable formulation that was readily accepted by 92% of the dogs in the study."
Pro-Kolin Advanced is available in 15ml, 30ml and 60ml syringes for dogs and 15ml syringes for cats. The flavourings used in the product contain no proteins or common allergens so Pro-Kolin Advanced can be used in animals with known hypersensitivities.
The trial, which was conducted by a UK-French team of researchers from PBD Biotech and Biosellal, is being presented at the European Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (EAVLD) Congress in Brussels today.
Current tests only allow the reliable detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) from 18-24 month calves and are unable to distinguish between active and passive infection.
For the 16-month trial, calves from three different herds and born from MAP-positive and MAP-negative cows were tested monthly using PBD Biotech’s Actiphage Rapid kit and Biosellal’s Bio-T kit MAP PCR on blood samples, and the same PCR on faeces.
Researchers say the trial proves that early detection of live MAP infection is possible, and paves the way for improved Johne’s disease monitoring and control measures on farms.
Co-Author Dr Ben Swift, Research Fellow in Antimicrobial Resistance at the Royal Veterinary College and R&D Director at PBD Biotech, said: "Young animals are highly susceptible to infection and being able to identify Johne’s disease at this early stage is key to controlling disease spread.
The trial showed that the sensitivity and specificity of Actiphage enables detection of lower levels of MAP than the current culture methods, and provides results in 6 hours rather than weeks."
The Actiphage Rapid technology used in the trial identified live MAP infection at least 4 weeks’ earlier than the faecal PCR in 75% of cases: in one case, the new diagnostic detected MAP in the blood of a one-day old calf born from a MAP-positive cow.
Claire Pelletier, Directrice Générale of BioDev, consultant to Biosellal, will be presenting findings from the trial, which also showed the transient nature of the infection. She said: "The study showed that two calves, identified as MAP-positive by Actiphage-PCR on blood during the first monthly sampling didn’t shed MAP into their faeces until 10 and 11 months. This emphasises that early detection provides a short window of time that allow for control of the disease."
Other international trials using Actiphage are underway to investigate the presence of MAP in milk.
The company says that the 20 module medicine programme, covering all of the major body systems of cats and dog, combines the latest thinking in small animal medicine with its world-class learning resources to ensure that delegates’ learning experience online gives the same high-quality learning as the attendance programme.
Improve says it aims to offer a route for veterinary surgeons who don’t have the time to participate in an attendance programme or who work in countries where this type of training is not available, the opportunity to study for a recognised postgraduate qualification.
Delegates signing up for the programme will have a module tutor – an RCVS or ECVIM/ACVIM Small Animal Internal Medicine Diploma holder – and a dedicated programme tutor who works with individual delegates to ensure they are supported throughout the programme.
Improve says the course includes interactive and engaging modules, together with real-life case studies, presentations, written notes, interactive quizzes and exercises.
Dr Alison Babington MRCVS, Business Coordinator at Improve said: "The pressures on veterinary professionals today have never been more intense and many of us struggle to find the work-life balance which is so important for our well-being. Unfortunately, these pressures often preclude many vets from undertaking the type of postgraduate training which could give them additional job satisfaction and enhance both their career prospects and the profitability of their practice.
"It has been our ambition for some time to offer some of our flagship programmes online and, in creating the Distance Learning Small Animal Medicine programme, we drew on the experience of the latest online platforms.
"This new Distance Learning Programme offers a high quality interactive, engaging Small Animal Medicine learning experience which will be fun to study and a far cry from the days of simply reading text online. It will be accessible to vets working anywhere in the world and we’re very proud to be able to offer a high level programme via this learning route."
For more information visit: www.improveinternational.com or ring 01793 759159.
The practice's dentistry and oral surgery team, led by Peter Southerden, has now carried out its first two successful reconstructions using the technique, following oral tumour resection.
Use of patient-specific implants (PSI) for jaw reconstruction is a new technique, which provides an alternative to bone regenerative techniques. Both techniques can be used in cases which have had significant jaw resection or need reconstructive surgery after a trauma.
Peter said: "To my knowledge, using this technique to create patient-specific implants for rostral mandibular reconstruction following bilateral rostral mandibulectomy has not been reported in dogs before.
"The reconstructive surgery involves taking pre and post-operative CT scans of the affected area and sending them to a specialist human medical PSI design company, which then uses 3D titanium printing technology to recreate the missing bone.
"In our first two cases, both dogs are doing really well. The feedback we’ve received from owners suggests their dogs have gained significant benefit from the jaw reconstruction process."
Peter is one of three dentistry and oral surgery clinicians at Eastcott alongside Andrew Perry and resident Ingrid Tundo, with a second resident due to join in 2019.
The team caters for dentistry cases including periodontology, endodontics, orthodontics and restorative dentistry, to complex cases including oral tumours, traumatic injuries and congenital issues such as cleft palates.
Peter added: "There aren’t many people with specialist qualifications in this field, possibly only six in the UK and we are the only team working with the backup of a multi-disciplinary referral hospital.
"Having a team of three, soon to be four, is unusual and means we have a big caseload and see a wide range of different cases. We are very keen on developing new techniques such the ones we have already introduced."
For more information about Eastcott Referrals, visit www.eastcottreferrals.co.uk.
The original editorial team of Daniel Brockman and David Holt has been joined by Gert ter Haar to produce a new edition which considers the substantial progress that has been made in this important field, including the challenges of treating airway abnormalities linked to brachycephalism, the constraints of complex bony anatomy and rich vascularity of the head when performing radical surgery, and the treatment of trauma.
The book includes a number of new techniques, including dorsal rhinotomy and total ear canal ablation.
The BSAVA says operative techniques, instructive photographs and full-colour illustrations remain a key feature of the manual, which is aimed at the general veterinary practitioner.
The BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Head, Neck and Thoracic Surgery, 2nd edition is available from the BSAVA website: www.bsava.com or by phone: 01452 726700.
The company says it has redesigned the packaging to make it more distinctive, the idea being that it makes stock control in the practice and vaccine management on the farm easier and it also makes it easier for veterinary surgeons to identify and grab the right product off the shelf.
The new, bright red packaging for Bovilis IBR Marker Live is shown right. What do you think? Comment below.
Virtual Vet Derms has been set up to be able to give advice to veterinary surgeons on any aspect of skin or ear disease whether it is allergy, otitis media, cutaneous neoplasia or endocrine-based in any species, including dogs, cats, small furries, exotic pets including raptors, birds and reptiles, horses, camelids, zoo and farm animals.
Sue, herself an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology, is supported by a team of veterinary dermatology colleagues as well as veterinary specialists in exotic medicine, internal medicine (including endocrinology) and consultants with expertise in oncology.
Sue said: "We recognise that not every veterinarian has got access to a local dermatology specialist and that not all clients can or want to travel to a referral centre. The aim of the service is to formalise the advice that dermatology clinicians give to veterinary surgeons to allow them to get detailed help to manage difficult or challenging dermatology cases within their own practice."
The service has been set up under the RCVS Vivet initiative, is approved by all of the major insurance companies and supported with Veterinary Defence Society Insurance cover.
Virtual Vet Derms offers support in a range of ways.
Quick questionsShort questions that veterinary surgeons can submit via the online form on the Virtual Vet Derms website that just require a brief reply. This may be a dose of a drug, a parasite you want identifying, or the interpretation of a blood sample such as an ACTH stimulation test.
Veterinary reportsVeterinary surgeons can use online request forms on the Virtual Vet Derms web site to submit a brief history of the animal and the problem and some good quality photos of the skin condition. There is also the ability to upload histopathology reports, blood samples and any other pertinent information. A detailed written report is sent back to the vet within 48 hours which will describe clinical signs, differential diagnoses, recommended diagnostic tests and treatment option where appropriate. Where possible, Virtual Vet Derms aims to pass the advice request to the nearest dermatologist but vets can ask for advice from any of its specialists.
Telemedicine consultationsFor new cases or for cases where initial advice has been sought, in the client's own primary care veterinary practice via the internet. The Virtual Vets Derms specialist can consult with the owner to provide even more specific advice and support. After each teleconsultation the Virtual Vet Derms specialist will produce a report in the same format as the veterinary report to allow the primary care veterinary surgeon to continue to manage the case more effectively.
Face to face consultationsCan also be arranged via the owner’s vet at the specialist's own practice if there is the need for more specialist investigation that may not be available in the primary care veterinary surgery. In these cases, the specialist will take on the direct care of the case and work with the owner and vet on the best course of action.
General advice Also possible if the vet wishes to direct an owner straight to Virtual Vet Derms.
For more information, visit: https://virtualvetderms.com
The Statutory Membership Examination must be taken by all individuals educated outside of the UK whose veterinary qualification is not recognised by the RCVS. Passing the exam allows them to join the UK Register, and practice as a veterinary surgeon in the UK.
The exam has existed in its current format for over 30 years, and the review was implemented to ensure the examination remains fit for purpose, and sits in line with international best-practice and the College’s current Day-one Competences.
The College says the review was also designed to make sure it is using the most appropriate means of assessment methods, to best prepare candidates for success, and to ensure candidates can work in the UK to the best of their ability.
The written examination will now consist of two parts; a clinical Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) paper (in a single best answer clinical vignette format) and an open book examination, which will be used to ascertain the candidate’s knowledge of the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.
The Clinical, Practical Examination will now exist in the form of a multi-dimensional Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This examination is set to measure a range of clinical, technical and professional skills including clinical reasoning, communication, professionalism, and ethical awareness. Following a tender process, Glasgow Veterinary School has been awarded the contract to host the OSCE examination for five years from 2019 to 2023.
RCVS Examinations Manager, Victoria Hedges, said: "The review of the Statutory Membership Examination has provided us with the opportunity to ensure that we continue to test the skills and knowledge needed to work effectively in a veterinary practice in the UK in a robust manner, and bring it in line with the final year examinations delivered at UK vet schools. In designing the examination, the RCVS has considered international best practice, in addition to approaches to regulatory examinations within both the veterinary and medical sectors."
A comprehensive handbook regarding this new examination will be available on the Statutory Membership Examination section of the RCVS website (www.rcvs.org.uk/statutory-membership-exam) shortly.
If you have any questions, please get in contact with Examinations Manager, Victoria Hedges: v.hedges@rcvs.org.uk
Hysolv says the vaccine, which was developed by IDT Biologika, has been used successfully in Germany, where 1.7 million doses have been prescribed. The company says field trials have shown that vaccination not only protected against clinical signs of influenza but also resulted in improvements in reproduction and piglet performance.
Two 1 ml doses of the inactivated vaccine can be injected intramuscularly three weeks apart to pigs from 56 days old, providing immunisation to the majority of animals within seven days.
Hysolv director, Geoff Hooper said: "Swine flu can be devastating to a herd and this vaccine will broaden protection, particularly when used with our existing vaccine Respiporc FLU3, which we are strongly advising."
Respiporc FLU3 protects against three other strains of swine flu (H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2). Hysolv says that when used together, the two vaccines protect pigs against the most relevant strains in the British Isles.
Geoff added: "There have been several flu pandemics throughout the years – the latest in 2009. It is not possible to predict the emergence of a pandemic strain accurately but this vaccine combined with Respiporc FLU3 will greatly decrease the chance of pigs becoming infected."
In case you need any reminding, acepromazine belongs to the phenothiazine family and acts as a dopamine receptor antagonist, providing calming effects1, 2. It causes sedation and anxiolysis, which is initially dose dependent, plateauing at higher doses1, 3. It is metabolised in the liver and has a long duration of action of approximately six hours in healthy patients1.
For best results AceSedate should be combined with an opioid (neuroleptanalgesia) to improve the quality and reliability of sedation and provide analgesia1, 2, 3.
Richard Beckwith, country manager of Jurox (UK) Ltd said: "AceSedate is a welcome addition to our analgesia and anaesthesia range providing our customers with a high-quality product at an economical price."
For further information, visit www.jurox.com/uk, contact your Jurox technical sales rep, ring the customer services team on 0800 500 3171 or e-mail: info@jurox.co.uk.
References
Bravecto Plus contains fluralaner (280 mg/ml), an ectoparasiticide which provides systemic activity against ticks (lxodes ricinus) and fleas (Ctenocephalides felis), and moxidectin (14 mg/ml), an endoparasiticide which provides systemic activity against a range of internal worms, including heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), intestinal roundworm and hookworm.
Bravecto Plus is applied topically using the "Twist'n'Use" pipette. Once applied, the product kills ticks and fleas for 12 weeks, while also treating intestinal roundworm and hookworm and preventing heartworm disease for eight weeks.
Bravecto Plus can also be used as part of a treatment strategy for flea allergy dermatitis.
Bravecto was first launched in 2014 as a chewable tablet for dogs. In 2016 Bravecto spot-on was launched as a topical solution for dogs and cats. More than 80 million doses of Bravecto have been sold in 72 countries since 2014.
Amanda Melvin, marketing manager, at MSD Animal Health, said: "We are pleased to introduce the latest innovation in feline parasite protection to the Bravecto family."
For more information, refer to the summary of product characteristics or contact your MSD account manager.
According to the company, two promotional videos it prepared for social media have already reached more than 1.7 million people in the first two days of the campaign.
Virbac says that some of the UK's best loved pet influencers will also be promoting the campaign to their followers over the coming week.
What is a pet influencer, anyway? Someone who influences pets? I picture a Barbara-Woodhouse sort of character surrounded by a rapt audience of dogs: "Come on now, dogs, eat Veterinary HPM, it really is properly yummy, and sooo good for you."
I digress.
As part of the campaign pet owners will be able use an online protein calculator to check whether their current pet food is providing optimal levels of protein to their pet.
Pet owners will also be able to locate their nearest veterinary practice stockist using a new locator tool on the Virbac website and benefit from a discount voucher for their first Veterinary HPM purchase, which can only be redeemed in participating veterinary practices.
Tracey West, Nutrition Manager at Virbac, said: "Nutrition plays such a key role in the long-term health and well-being of our pets, and veterinary practices play such a key role in educating pet owners on this important subject.
"We’re delighted that as part of our ‘pro-veterinary’ strategy for Veterinary HPM, we will be able to help drive pet owners back into veterinary practices with this campaign."
For more information, speak to your Virbac Territory Manager.
IVC was formed in 2011, the result of a merger of several independent veterinary hospitals. Under the leadership of David Hillier, and with backing from Summit Partners in 2014, it grew to over 300 practices before being acquired by the Swedish EQT Partners in January 2017.
In August last year the company merged with Evidensia Group, another veterinary corporate group with practices around Europe, bringing the total to more than 850 clinics and hospitals in eight countries.
EQT has reportedly now instructed Jefferies Investment Bank to auction the business in the first week of November.
No word yet on where the auction will take place. If you go, be careful not to scratch your nose at the wrong moment ("1.7 billion from the gentleman at the back. Yes, that's YOU, Sir.").
Mark, who graduated from Cambridge University in 1997, has a broad interest in internal medicine but particularly enjoys the challenges posed by gastrointestinal, endocrine, haematology and renal medicine.
He has a PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge and after completing his PhD he took a residency in Small Animal Medicine at Cambridge, followed by four years in a private specialist practice in the south of England.
Mark was then appointed Clinical Associate Professor in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the Nottingham Veterinary School, where he was responsible for running the final year medicine rotation along with lecturing to all years of the veterinary course.
He was also in charge of the school’s small animal intern and residency programmes in addition to supervising both undergraduate and post-graduate research students.
Mark has also been involved in national and international investigations into canine breed-related diseases such as canine cancer, canine and feline haematology, canine endocrine disease and the development of novel non-invasive biomarkers to help diagnose both simple and complex medical diseases.
Outside work, Mark is a seven-guitar-owning-musician, a race-winning cyclist and a keen runner with a personal best of one hour twenty five minutes for a half marathon. What a relief for the rest of us mere mortals to hear there's something he's rubbish at: he says he swims 'like a brick'.
Mark said: "I’m excited to be joining the outstanding team at Willows who deliver such exceptional care to pets and their owners and such an outstanding service to the referring veterinary surgeons.
"It is a wonderful opportunity for me and I’m really looking forward to making my own contribution to their continued success."